By Ruben A. Veloria IBA, Zambales, Philippines – Police operatives arrested on Thursday, November 20, a security guard involved in holding-up Good Money Bank he was supposed to protect and carted away ₱670,070.00. Provincial Police Director Colonel Benjamin Ariola identified the suspect as Gerson Rebultan, security guard of CVO Security Agency detailed at Good Money (GM) Bank, located at Purok 1, Barangay Palanginan, this municipality. According to the initial investigation conducted by officer-on-case MSgt. Enrico Manaligod Jr., at around 12:05 in the afternoon, SG Rebultan approached Richard Lopez, 51, Area Manager of GM Bank, and pointed his Cal. 38 service revolver to Lopez and declared a hold-up. The report failed to mention if there were other persons inside the bank when the crime was committed. However, it was mentioned that Rebultan was able to take away ₱670,070.00 and a cellphone, and fled the area using a tricycle of one Henry Uy. Follow-up operations resulted in the recovery of the “get-away” tricycle abandoned at a gasoline station in Bgy. Dirita, Iba, Zambales. Maj. Delos Reyes ordered an expanded follow-up operation to track down Rebultan and bring him to the fold of justice. Early dawn on Thursday, a restaurant crew complained about the civilian customer who entered their establishment with a gun. Col. Ariola dispatched a team to investigate, and spotted Rebustan and was arrested. Police confiscated in the possession of Rebultan, the service firearm, suspected shabu, and a grenade, and various denominations of cash. There was no report about the ₱670,070.00. The suspect is now in the custody of the police while awaiting various charges, including robbery, carnapping, illegal possession of illegal drugs, and more.

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines  – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) was given a Special Citation and Certificate of Recognition from the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) for implementing the Document Management System: A Paperless Solution for Collaboration. SBMA Office Services Department (OSD) OIC Manager Jaime Menor, Jr. received the citation from DAP President and CEO Leocadio S. Sebastian during the 2025 Powering Productivity event held at the Luxent Hotel in Quezon City on November 11, 2025. The citation recognizes the SBMA’s effort to save one million sheets of paper by digitizing document routing and inter-office communication across its 46 offices. The SBMA implemented the DMS in its bid as one of more active paperless government agencies in the country. With the theme “Powering Productivity: Unlocking Ideas, Enabling Innovation,” the 2025 Powering Productivity event served as the culminating activity of two initiatives of the DAP Center of Excellence on Public-Sector Productivity, which champions innovation and productivity among the youth and public-sector partners. The program featured pitching competitions to showcase creative and impactful solutions developed by students, including an awarding ceremony to recognize outstanding participants and entries from the 2025 Productivity Challenge. The event highlighted the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and the collective commitment to drive productivity growth in the Philippines.

CLARK AIR BASE, Philippines—At the request of the government of the Philippines, the U.S. military is working shoulder-to-shoulder with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to provide foreign disaster relief to communities affected by consecutive Typhoons Kalmaegi (Tino) and Fung-Wong (Uwan), which caused extensive damage and tragic loss of life. The forward presence and ready posture of United States Indo-Pacific Command in the region facilitated a rapid and effective response to these natural disasters, demonstrating the U.S. commitment as friends, allies, and partners during times of need. Working in close coordination with the AFP, Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Philippine Office of Civil Defense, Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group, Task Force – Philippines, and U.S. Department of State, the U.S military deployed a variety of assets and personnel to the Philippines to support with foreign disaster relief operations. “I have been thoroughly impressed by the preparedness and forward-leaning measures taken by the Philippine government during this situation, and we will support the lead of our Philippine counterparts as we carry out this relief mission together as a fully-aligned team,” said U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Robert Brodie, the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade commanding general. “Support to our friends, allies, and partners, and their people in a time of need, is non-negotiable. Together, we are overcoming distance, weather, and logistical challenges to save lives.” Since Nov. 5, 2025, the U.S. military has coordinated mission planning with the Philippine government and military agencies to continue the work of providing vital supplies to regions impacted by the storm. This effort highlights the long-standing U.S.-Philippine Alliance and the shared commitment to regional resilience and humanitarian assistance.          

By Ruben A. Veloria   MARIVELES, Bataan, Philippines – AboitizPower, through its private limited partnerships the GNPower Dinginin (GNPD) and GNPower Mariveles Energy Center (GMEC), on Tuesday, distributed immediate aid to communities here affected by the recent Typhoon Uwan. The relief operation targeted families currently staying in evacuation centers across the municipality. Each of the 1,000 grocery bags contained rice and other essential supplies to support the evacuees temporarily displaced by super typhoon Uwan. According to the companies, 200 packs were delivered to Sitio Dinginin; while 100 packs each were allocated to Barangay Alas-asin, Barangay Sisiman, and Barangay BASECO. All relief goods were delivered directly to the respective barangay evacuation centers. The remaining 500 relief packs were turned-over to the local government of Mariveles and the Provincial Government of Bataan, to be put on standby to be distributed to other affected residents as identified by local officials. The initiative is part of the power companies’ response to assist their host communities in recovering from the calamity. Meanwhile, the Mariveles Municipal Jail received six tote bins and wood pallets from Aboitiz Power, GMEC, and GNPD through Mr. Joseph B. Chavez, CSR Program Manager, to be used in the upcoming Aquaponic Hito Farming and Hydroponic Lettuce Production projects. These initiatives will serve as an additional livelihood programs for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL), promoting self-sufficiency, productivity, and sustainable rehabilitation within the facility. The Mariveles Municipal Jail continues to strengthen partnerships with external stakeholders to provide meaningful opportunities for skills development and reformation among PDL.      

By Ruben A. Veloria   ZAMBALES, Philippines — The early systematic evacuation executed by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) here before the super typhoon Uwan landed in the Philippine soil has saved thousands of residents from the danger. Zambales Provincial Engineering and Infrastructure Consultant Domingo Mariano, who monitors the operation of the PDRRMO, said that as early as Thursday (Nov 6), Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. has mobilized all offices of the Provincial Capitol to laid out emergency plan. Among the priorities were the readiness of all equipment, vehicles, and personnel, and are ready for deployment anywhere, and anytime. Specifically mentioned are the evacuation centers which may serve as temporary shelters of the residents affected by flashflood and landslides. Gov. Ebdane who oversee the evacuation operations from the Command Center in Iba, said that as of 5:00 PM on Monday (Nov. 10) a total of 9,168 families, or 26,460 individuals, are now staying in emergency evacuation centers in 13 municipalities of Zambales. The figure are much higher than the total of 2,993 families, or 8,441 individuals, reported on Saturday. According to data submitted by PDRRMO head Rolex Estella, the most number of evacuees, reaching 3,038 families or 6,294 individuals, came from the town of Sta. Cruz where typhoon signal No. 4 was raised in the area. From the municipality of Botolan, 1,865 families or 4,943 individuals; followed by Masinloc with 1,020 families or 3,237 individuals. In the town of Candelaria- 810 families or 2,150 individuals; Subic, 694 families or 2,259 individuals, mostly from coastal barangay of Calapacuan, are temporary staying in evacuation centers. In Cabangan, 246 families or 693 individuals were evacuated, while in San Narciso has 94 families or 302 individuals; San Felipe has 106 families or 333 individuals; Castillejos has 191amilies or 639 individuals; and Iba with only 487 families or 1,626 individuals were evacuated. In San Antonio-57 families or 222; San Marcelino- 116 families or 348 individual; and Palauig- 453 families/ 1,384 individuals. Personnel from the PDRRMO, Philippine National Police and volunteers remain on standby for rescue and relief operations while continuously monitoring the weather conditions and situation across the province. Several department heads of the Zambales provincial government are also focused on and responding quickly to ensure everyone’s safety and to restore services affected by the typhoon.  

NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the Provincial Government of Tarlac have forged a landmark partnership to establish the Tarlac Community College in New Clark City, a move seen to boost regional development, expand access to affordable and quality education, and build a future-ready workforce in Central Luzon. BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang and Tarlac Governor Christian Tell A. Yap on Friday, October 17, 2025, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to initiate the planning and development of a five-hectare community college that will position New Clark City as an emerging hub for academic excellence, innovation, and inclusive growth. “We are laying down the foundation for the establishment of the Tarlac Community College in New Clark City, a partnership between BCDA and the Provincial Government of Tarlac. This is in line with BCDA’s vision to strengthen university-industry linkage and equip our people with the skills needed for future industries,” said Engr. Bingcang. Under the MOU, BCDA will identify and make available an area within New Clark City for the proposed campus, while the Provincial Government of Tarlac will lead its development, financing, and academic programming. The initiative forms part of BCDA’s efforts to attract educational institutions and research centers that will shape New Clark City into a beacon of learning and innovation. Governor Yap underscored the transformative impact of the project: “We are very grateful for the property being offered for the development of this future training center and community college for our kababayans in the western side of the province of Tarlac. The best service we can provide them is to empower them with livelihood, jobs, and other opportunities…We have the platform here in New Clark City to develop all of our dreams.” Tarlac Community College is envisioned to offer courses aligned with emerging industries and future employment trends, enhancing human capital and contributing to the socioeconomic advancement of Tarlac and its surrounding areas. As a smart, green, disaster-resilient, and inclusive metropolis, New Clark City dedicates 60% of its land area to open spaces and sustainability-driven development. The addition of a premier educational institution strengthens its identity as a city built not only for infrastructure and commerce, but also for community building and nation-building. Other institutions that are already establishing their presence in New Clark City, including the National Academy of Sports, the University of the Philippines, and the Philippine Science High School, further solidifying its position as an emerging academic and innovation hub for the country. BCDA and the Provincial Government of Tarlac will convene regular coordination meetings to ensure the project’s alignment with the New Clark City master plan and national development objectives. A separate agreement will be executed upon finalization of the project’s scope and implementation terms            

By Ruben A. Veloria   ZAMBALES, Philippines — A senior official here denied reports that a Chinese company is involved in dredging operations in this province and caused severe damage to private properties and the environment. Provincial Consultant on Engineering and Infrastructure Development Engineer Domingo Mariano assured the public that no Chinese company is involved in River Restoration Program, or dredging operations, in the major rivers of Zambales. “We have not given permit to any Chinese company. We only have legitimate Filipino workers operating the dredging machines,” Mariano said. The official also clarified that companies involved in dredging operations acquired their vessels from China and converted into Philippine flag. The vessels, including the crews, passed through the scrutiny and approval of Maritime Industry Authority or MARINA. The statement came after a member of the House of Representatives recommended an investigation to an alleged Chinese firm over its reported dredging operations in Zambales which triggered widespread environmental damage, and loss of livelihood of the residents. According to the report, the solon alleged that dredging operations destroyed maritime habitats, drastically reduced their fishing income, and subjected the coastal communities to severe danger. Engr. Mariano explained that the dredging operation brought significant benefits for Zambales residents. “There is no more houses damaged. There is no one needs to be rescued. And more importantly, the province got revenue income,” he said. By virtue of the provincial resolution, all extracted minerals, such as sand, in any part of the province are subject to taxes. According to the provincial resolution, all minerals extracted, such as sand, from any part of the province are subject to tax. As a result, the revenue is allocated with 50% going to the province of Zambales, 30% to the LGU, and 20% to the Barangays covering the area. Fifty percent (50%) of the share allocated to the province is utilized as student assistance for scholars across the entire province of Zambales. This includes support for those who wish to take Board Examinations, pursue Master’s or Doctorate degrees, as well as those who have earned Latin Honors. The remaining portion is used for the construction of infrastructure projects and free medical services in four (4) hospitals. Additionally, assistance is provided to fishermen, who have a total membership of 27,000. This includes the provision of fishing payaos (fish aggregating devices) and fishing gear, as well as the purchase by the Provincial Capitol of an ₱87-million fishing harvester vessel for their use. This enables them to compete effectively with larger-scale fishermen. According to the official, the extracted sand were transported to Pasay Reclamation Project, and to airport project in Bulacan. There are other smaller projects that are being supplied with sands. Regarding the alleged mounting complaints from local communities over the dredging operations, Engr. Mariano countered that if the report should be true, there must be only one or two who have personal interest. “They built permanent structures over accretion areas, which was considered danger zone by the DENR, but illegal settlers and businesses popped in the area like mushrooms,” the official said. Engr. Mariano also clarified reports about the fishermen who lost their income due to dredging operation in their area. “The so called environmentalist who claimed that fishermen lost their income due to dredging, that was purely lies. Because the fisherman are very happy now because they can ow catch fish by the tubs,” Mariano said. Engr. Mariano appealed for the cooperation of all residents in affected areas of erosion in San Narciso and San Rafael. “We have to help each other and to co-exist. It can’t be that those only at the shore line should live. Because there are others in the plains, and those in the mountains,” he said. He also noted that DENR is always ready to help them to comply with the requirements. And There is nothing that can’t be resolve through dialogue,” Mariano added.  

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE (CIAC-PAD(——The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) and Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) have formally signed a partnership agreement today to develop one of CIAC Flagship Projects, the Clark National Food Hub, and a major step forward in the transformation of the aviation complex into the Clark Aviation Capital. The ceremonial signing is a result of the series of coordination meetings and deliberations on the terms between CIAC and FTI relative to the development of the project. Present during the event were Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Bases Conversion and Development Authority Chairman Hilario Paredes, BCDA President Joshua Bingcang, CIAC President and CEO Joseph Alcazar, CIAC Directors Glenn Albano and Victor Manuel, FTI President and CEO Joseph Rudolph C. Lo, Transportation Assistant Secretary Donald Mendoza, and representatives from Clark National Food Hub Task Force and from the New Business Ventures Unit. “This partnership aligns squarely with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize agricultural development and strengthen the agro- and agri- logistics value chain—particularly in advancing the nation’s aquaculture and agriculture industries,” Alcazar said. It will feature state-of-the-art facilities and services integrating modern food storage warehouses, cold storage units, processing facilities, administrative offices, research and quality control, international shipping, marketing, and trading for both domestic and export markets. According to Alcazar, the collaboration covers the development, operation, and maintenance of a wholesale food hub that will serve the Clark Freeport Zone, New Clark City, Metro Manila, and the regions of Northern, Central, and Southern Luzon, while also providing direct access to global markets. Envisioned as an integrated and centralized hub for food distribution, storage, and processing high value agro–and agricultural products, supporting both local and export markets. The project aims to strengthen national food security and enhance the Philippines’ competitiveness as a food exporter by improving logistics, cold chain systems, quarantine processes, and compliance with international trade and safety standards Alcazar expressed gratitude to FTI for its partnership, emphasizing that the initiative marks a major milestone in promoting sustainable agricultural growth and ensuring a more efficient food value chain nationwide as well as improving the country’s food security. CIAC serves as the aviation and land development arm of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), while FTI is a government-owned or -controlled corporation and a subsidiary of the National Food Authority (NFA) which engages in supporting the agricultural sector by providing facilities for food processing, storage, and distribution, linking producers with consumers, and promoting price stability.              

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines —The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) passed the Stage 1 audit for the ISO 45001:2018 standard, also known as the Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS), on October 20. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño lauded the efforts of the OHSMS Team headed by Dr. Solomon Jacalne, Manager of the Public Health and Safety Department (PHSD) and OHSMS management representative, for creating the OHSMS for SBMA. “The SBMA is already certified in two international standards—the ISO 9001, the Quality Management Systems, and the ISO 14001, which is the Environmental Management Systems. As we strive to provide better services for our stakeholders, we are now into complying with the ISO 45001 standards,” Aliño said. He added that the documentation for ISO 45001:2018 is an additional certification to strengthen the SBMA’s operations. This is in addition to Republic Act 11058, also known as “An act strengthening compliance with occupational safety and health standards and providing penalties for violations thereof,” and Joint Memorandum Circular no. 1 s. 2020, also known as the “Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Standards for the public sector of the Civil Service Commission, Department of Health, and Department of Labor. According to Jacalne, the ISO 45001:2018 standard is to provide a framework for managing OH&S risks and opportunities. The aim and intended outcomes of the OH&S management system are to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses in workers and to provide safe and healthy workplaces. It is critically important for the organization to eliminate hazards and minimize OH&S risks by taking effective preventive and protective measures to improve OH&S performance. “It basically aims to reduce risks in the workplace and improve employee safety and health as it develops proactive measures for health and safety,” Jacalne shared. During the Stage 1 audit, Jacalne said that SBMA managed to pass the audit conducted online by the DQS Certification Phils. Inc. with a few opportunities for improvement (OFIs) findings. DQS Certification Phils. Inc., which has been certifying the SBMA compliance since 2018, is a subsidiary of the DQS Group based in Germany, operating in more than 60 countries. Meanwhile, during the “Talakayan sa Freeport,” a media forum organized by the SBMA Corporate Communications group, safety and preparedness were tackled by Fire Chief Ranny Magno, PHSD Medical Services Division Chief Dr. Arlene Cesa, and Law Enforcement Department (LED) manager Col. Alfredo Agustin, Jr. “When we talk about safety, it’s a way of life. If we practice it, we develop a culture of excellence among the workforce in SBMA. It’s not just a document; it must be put into practice,” Magno said. Meanwhile, Cesa said that the hardest part of the documentation will be monitoring and maintenance of the process. She said, “We should normalize preparedness, not only for calamities and disasters, but in our daily lives as well. Preparedness should impact our lives, not only in our workplace but in our families, as well.” Currently, the SBMA OHSMS team is preparing for the face-to-face Stage 2 audit in November.