By Ruben A. Veloria ZAMBALES, Philippines- The 33rd Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Jamboree concluded on Saturday with a gigantic campfire and fireworks and concluded with passing of the APRSJ flag to scout representatives from Thailand, the host of the 34th regional jamboree in 2029. The closing ceremony at the Camp Zambales Grand Arena where the 25,000 scout leaders convene for the last time, marking the successful week of highly planned activities in promoting friendship and camaraderie, teaching skills, enhancing leadership qualities, and understanding cultures and religion. In his speech, Zambales Governor and designated Camp Chief Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. congratulated the members of the scouting committee who made the 33rd APRS Jamboree concluded with overwhelming success. “Congratulations,” Gov. Ebdane said addressing the local and international delegations. “It has been our privilege to host the 33rd APR Jamboree. We have succeeded to put a show that with our limited resources, we have put up something unbelievable and we did it,” he added. Gov. Ebdane noted that the camp which was planned, designed and built inside the formerly 62-hectare barren land, was prepared with the help of the community, as well as the tents which were produced themselves. However, the biggest challenge they met, Gov. Ebdane admiited, was how to “prepare into the largest scout camp in the Philippines” in just 180 days. He admitted he sought the expertise of Zambales Provincial Engineering and Infrastructure Development (ZPEID) Consultant Engineer Domingo Mariano, and Zambales Provincial Engineer Ferdie Dagsaan, who planned and constructed the best camp site for the 33rd APR Scout Jamboree. After seven days of adventure and exciting activities, a closing ceremony finally came with the traditional scout grand campfire set at the middle of the Grand Arena where most part of the 25,000 scouts were convened. Botolan mayor and Deputy Camp Chief for Operations Jun Omar Ebdane lighted the campfire, a culminating event fostering unity and reflections. To officially conclude the jamboree in Zambales which started in December 14, Camp Chief Ebdane handed over to Chatchanin Tanapatchawin, representing the National Scout Organization of Thailand, the host of the 34th APRSJ in 2029. “We are hoping to see all also to the next [34th] Jamboree in Thailand in 2029,” said Tanapatchawin. The statement was followed by a cheers and hurray of the scots as the fireworks displays covered the dark skies with colorful confetti of sparks and bangs. Like all other members of the international Scout contingents, the Thai scout expressed his gratitude to Camp Chief Ebdane “because the scouts had really enjoyed the camp experience.”      

LA UNION Philippines — Under the flow of the historic first, La Union placed youth leadership at the forefront, as Sangguniang Kabataan of the Municipality of Sudipen Xyra Janell Manabeng was crowned the first-ever Mutia ti Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) 2025, marking a milestone in La Union’s push to elevate youth leadership beyond the halls of public service. Held at the Speaker Pro Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Convention Center on December 20, 2025, the pageant brought together 20 young women leaders from across La Union, each representing their respective Sangguniang Kabataan, as they showcased grace, confidence, and platforms anchored on service and community development. Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega opened the event, highlighting the provincial government’s commitment to empowering youth leaders and fostering a culture of service rooted in purpose and empowerment. The night was further enlivened by guest performances from Jeric Gonzalez, Jameson Blake, and K-pop star Chanty, who serenaded the contestants and entertained the crowd with electrifying performances. The pageant’s top finalists captivated the audience with their talent, poise, and commitment to advocacy. Emerging victorious, Prinsesa Ti Panagkaysa SK Caba Sofia Nathalie De Leon claimed the first runner-up title, earning recognition for Miss Photogenic. Prinsesa Ti Panag-ayat SK Bacnotan Angela Mañalac was named second runner-up, Prinsesa Ti Panagsirbi SK Bangar Genoa Sabado secured third runner-up with accolades for Unity Torchbearer Award, while Prinsesa Ti Panagdur-as SK San Gabriel Althea Fe Basco was awarded as fourth runner-up. Throughout the competition, contestants dazzled the audience in three distinct segments: the high-energy activewear round, the stylish and versatile denim wear showcase, and the elegant evening gown presentation, each segment highlighting confidence, grace, and the unique personalities of La Union’s young women leaders. In between, the candidates also presented their advocacies through AVPs, giving the audience insight into their platforms for community service and development. The question-and-answer portion further tested their wit, confidence, and ability to articulate their vision for youth leadership in La Union. In every way, guided in the spirit of #LaUnionAgkaysa, the Mutia Ti Sangguniang Kabataan 2025 fortifies how unity thrives in diversity, creating platforms that inspire meaningful change and elevate community service to new heights.

PILI, Camarines Sur, Philippines  — To streamline the harvesting and transport of agricultural produce, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Bicol Corn and Cassava Program officially turned over five hauling vehicles worth a total of ₱13 million to various Farmers’ Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs) on December 18, 2025. The distribution, held at the DA Regional Field Office 5, aims to reduce post-harvest losses and improve the logistical capabilities of local farmers. Each hauling truck is valued at ₱2.6 million. List of Beneficiaries The five recipient organizations represent different provinces across the Bicol region: Camarines Norte: Daet Corn Growers Association, Inc. Albay: Pioduran Corn Cluster Organization and Tula-Tula Pequeño Farmers Agriculture Cooperative. Camarines Sur: Del Rosario Corn Farmer’s Association (DELROSCOFA). Catanduanes: Pandan Cassava Growers and Processors Federation. Leadership and Support The turnover ceremony was led by DA Bicol Regional Executive Director Rodel P. Tornilla. He was joined by key officials, including OIC Regional Technical Director for Operations Dr. Mary Grace DP. Rodriguez, Regional Corn and Cassava Program Coordinator Engr. Amabel N. Bombase, and Regional Agricultural Engineering Division Chief Engr. Jerry A. Eboña. According to the DA, these vehicles are part of a broader commitment to modernize the corn and cassava industries, ensuring that farmers can bring their goods to market more efficiently and at lower costs. (Courtesy Albay TV)    

 The Regional Civil Security Unit-1 (RCSU1) headed by PCol. Cherry Fajardo, personally inspecting retailers of fireworks throughout Region 1 (Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan) to ensure that no illegal fireworks are being sold as the holiday and New Year season approaches. The monitoring of illegal fireworks was strictly ordered by Acting Chief PNP PLtGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., through the implementation of the Civil Security Group led by BGen. Ross Alvarado, to safeguard the security of every citizen.  

The Governor’s Office of the Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya has issued an advisory requiring the mandatory wearing of facemasks inside its premises, effective Monday, December 22, 2025. The directive applies to all provincial government (PLGU) officials and employees assigned to the Governor’s Office, as well as all visitors and guests. The advisory, circulated to all PLGU officials and staff, instructs everyone entering the Governor’s Office to wear a facemask while inside the office premises.