By Maida Boragay   NAGA CITY, Philippines — Faced with the rising costs of fuel and the constant pressure of volatile electricity prices, the City Government of Naga is embarking on a significant shift toward renewable energy, marking a new chapter in its drive for sustainable governance. As part of a private-public partnership initiative providing donations and free installation services for the Naga City Rooftop Solar PV Project, solar panels are now being mounted atop the Naga City People’s Hall and soon, the Raul S. Roco Library. Made possible through a donation by Nagueño Joseph Nocos of Emerging Power, Inc., alongside chosen contractor Ecological Energy Technologies, the initiative supplies the city with premium solar infrastructure at no cost to the local government. Mayor Leni Robredo described this move as a “general direction” toward shifting to renewable energy, which aims to alleviate the financial burden of soaring electricity and fuel costs. By utilizing solar power, the city expects to see a significant drop in operational expenditures, specifically for its government offices. “Pag natapos na po iyan, dakulaon na maray na savings an satuyang makakamtan,” said Mayor Robredo, highlighting the pragmatic financial benefits of the transition to renewable energy. The initiative is supported by a series of resolutions and ordinances of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, reflecting a unified effort by the executive and legislative branches to institutionalize energy efficiency. Naga’s strategy goes beyond existing structures: future public projects are now required to integrate space for solar panels into their design, ensuring that new facilities are energy-ready from the start. This mandate covers upcoming developments including the Naga City Hospital Dormitory, Center for Safety and Resiliency (CESAR), the Metro Naga Sports Complex, the Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum, and the ongoing improvements at the Naga City Civic Center. By harnessing the sun to outpace rising fuel and electricity costs, Naga City is laying the groundwork for lasting fiscal and environmental resilience.    

NAGA CITY, Philippines — The city government is targeting 19,194 children aged 6 to 59 months for vaccination during the Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) from August 10 to 28, based on the Department of Health’s projected target population for the city. Mayor Leni Robredo appealed to parents to bring their children to the nearest barangay health center or designated vaccination site, stressing that measles and rubella are preventable through safe, and effective vaccines. Robredo said there should be no room for complacency in protecting Naga’s children from vaccine-preventable diseases, particularly measles, which can cause serious complications and even death. “There is no reason for any child in Naga to suffer from measles when a safe and effective vaccine is available,” the mayor said, urging families to take advantage of the free immunization campaign. According to Dr. Ronnel Mejaro, National Immunization Program Medical Coordinator of the City Health Office 1, children should receive the supplemental measles-rubella vaccine even if they have already completed their routine immunization, as the additional dose strengthens protection and helps prevent outbreaks. Eligible children will also receive Vitamin A supplementation, which boosts the immune system, supports healthy growth, promotes good vision, and helps keep the skin, lungs, intestines, and other body tissues healthy. The City Health Office emphasized that protecting children from measles is a shared responsibility among parents, health workers, barangay officials, volunteers, and the local and national governments. The Philippine Pediatric Society has expressed support for the nationwide campaign, while the Department of the Interior and Local Government has directed barangays to actively assist in informing families and encouraging them to participate. City Health Office records show that Naga has recorded only a few suspected measles cases in recent years—two in 2021, two in 2022, three in 2023, four in 2024, one in 2025, and two suspected cases so far this year. Health officials said these isolated cases did not develop into community outbreaks, underscoring the importance of sustained vaccination and disease surveillance. Parents and guardians are encouraged to have all eligible children vaccinated during the August 10–28 MR-SIA to help keep every child—and the entire community—protected. I via Jason B. Neola, CMO-Public Information Division head

By Ana-liza Macatangay and Ernie Delgado   DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon and Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo speak with a resident during their inspection of the dredging operations at Sagop Creek on August 6, 2026. (Image from DPWH) LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines  — Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon on Thursday said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. wants the dredging of all creeks, including the smaller ones, in Naga City to be finished in time for the rainy season. According to Dizon, the deployment of two more smaller dredging machines will help fast-track the DPWH’s efforts to remove silt, debris and other solid waste from the creeks. Dizon personally handed over the equipment during his inspection of the ongoing dredging operations at Sagop Creek in Barangay Concepcion Pequeña. “Kung maaalala ninyo noong nagpunta si Presidente dito, mayroong mga maliliit na creeks tulad nitong Sagop na hindi kayang pasukin ng malalaking equipment,” Dizon said, explaining that Mayor Leni Robredo requested compact backhoes and dredging equipment that can access narrow waterways. (If you remember when the President visited Naga City, there were smaller creeks that larger equipment could not access.) The new excavators will remain in the area to clear the smaller creeks Dizon said that the machines are essential because Naga City collects floodwater from neighboring towns, necessitating regular unclogging and desilting. He also said that more smaller dredging equipment will arrive next week to help clear narrow waterways, including those near Julian B. Meliton Elementary School, which often experiences flooding. “Mayroong paparating next week na mas maliit pa rito para naman sa mga creeks malapit sa Julian B. Meliton Elementary School na laging binabaha,” he said. (Smaller equipment is expected to arrive next week to clear creeks near Julian B. Meliton Elementary School, which frequently experiences flooding) Dizon also committed to deploying two mobile pumps next week to facilitate the rapid drainage of floodwaters during heavy rains. Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo said that the additional equipment would enhance the city’s flood mitigation efforts. She explained that although the City Engineering Office and the DPWH Third District Engineering Office attempted to conduct manual desilting operations in Sagop Creek, the hardened silt and soil have become difficult to remove without specialized equipment. “With this equipment, nakikita namin gumagalaw na. Kahit konting trabaho pa lang, gumagalaw na. Ang laking tulong niya sa pagsugpo ng baha,” Robredo said. (We can already see progress even with just a small amount of work. It is a huge help in addressing flooding.) For residents, the additional equipment brings hope for a long-term solution to the city’s recurring flooding. Lily Romero, 65, a resident of Barangay Concepcion Pequeña, said flooding has become a yearly challenge, particularly during the last quarter of the year. She recalled that floodwaters brought by Typhoon Kristine in 2024 reached chest level, damaging appliances, furniture, and other household belongings. Romero expressed hope that the continuous clearing and dredging of waterways under Oplan Kontra Baha would help reduce flooding and protect communities from similar experiences in the future. “Salamat kay President Marcos, project po ito ni BBM,” Romero said. (I thank President Marcos, this is one of his projects.)  (Nicolle Frilles contributed to this report/PIA Bicol)

Mayor Leni Robredo joined local leaders and focal persons at the Barangay Project Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (BPMEC) Onboarding Session yesterday at the PAGCOR Multipurpose Event Center. In her address, Mayor Leni costly emphasized that true transparency doesn’t just happen at City Hall—it thrives when local communities have the tools, data, and confidence to monitor public funds directly. By training local focal persons in strict evaluation and reporting, her administration is ensuring that every community project is built with integrity, finished on time, and truly felt by the people. This is exactly why so many look up to her leadership—always empowering the community and showing us what real accountability looks like!

  Bacacay, Albay, Philippines — The Maritime Regional Office V (MRO5) conducted its SPMS and GAD Mid-Year Performance Assessment and Planning Conference on 31 July–01 August 2026 to assess the office’s accomplishments and performance during the first half of CY 2026. The conference featured presentations by the respective section heads on the physical targets and accomplishments of various MRO5 sections, as well as discussions on financial performance, fund utilization, the 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP), and the amended OPCR for CY 2026. The afternoon session focused on Gender and Development (GAD) accomplishments and initiatives. The activity concluded with a solidarity message from Regional Director Jeffrey A. Bangsa, emphasizing accountability, teamwork, and commitment to achieving organizational targets. The conference also strengthened coordination among MRO5 personnel and set clear priorities for the second half of CY 2026 toward the delivery of responsive and quality maritime services.

By Benilda Recebido   SORSOGON CITY, Sorsogon, Philippines — Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. inspected the country’s seaweed bioreactor facility at the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-National Seaweed Technology Development Center (BFAR-NSTDC) in Barangay Cabid-an, Sorsogon City on Monday, July 20. During his visit, the agriculture chief emphasized that the project aligns directly with President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr.’s directive to invest heavily in the seaweed sector, which remains one of the country’s top fisheries exports. The newly established bioreactor project is designed to resolve the industry’s chronic shortage of high-quality planting materials. The facility, which began operating in March this year, houses a huge 1,250L photobioreactor system explicitly optimized for macroalgae use. It operates around the clock to generate culture materials without relying on seasonal weather patterns. According to Tiu Laurel, once fully operational, the facility will break away from traditional production constraints. The facility will mass-produce premium planting materials 24 hours a day using advanced cultivation techniques,” he said. “Its production capacity will jump tenfold compared to traditional methods, which are capped at just 10 tons per month, and we target a 95 percent survival and growth rate for distributed seedlings, a massive improvement from the historical 60 percent to 70 percent success rate that often led to wasted labor for farmers,” he added. According to Tiu Laurel, the Philippines has only scratched the surface of its marine potential. “While the local industry currently relies on just five commercially viable seaweed varieties, hundreds of other types remain vastly untapped,” he said. The Sorsogon research facility will use its new machinery to accelerate research and development. Scientists will now have the technology to cross-breed species and develop high-yielding hybrids. Also, the DA plans to expand seaweed utilization beyond food, exploring its high-value applications in pharmaceuticals and industrial sectors, and eventually, to position the Philippines as the global leader in seaweed production. The project operates under the direct supervision of the DA and its attached bureau, the BFAR. Laurel noted that securing high-quality planting materials is the most critical component needed to revitalize local aquaculture. “We are on the way to making our seaweed industry number one in the world,” Laurel stated, affirming the government’s commitment to empowering local seaweed farmers and maximizing the country’s marine economy. (Raiza Lucido contributed to this report/PIA Bicol/Sorsogon)

By Marlon Atun   LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines — The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has maintained Mayon Volcano at Alert Level 3, as recent decreases in volcanic activity are insufficient for a downgrade. Dr. Paul Karson Alanis, senior science research specialist of Phivolcs, said that despite observing a downward trend over the past two weeks, most monitored parameters still meet Alert Level 3 conditions. “As of July 29, the volcano is still effectively at ‘Day 0’ in terms of meeting the requirement for a sustained decline,” Alanis explained, referring to the agency’s protocol requiring at least two consecutive weeks of consistent decrease in key parameters before lowering the alert level. Phivolcs noted that earlier increases in seismic activity—particularly volcano-tectonic earthquakes recorded in Sto. Domingo and Bacacay, Albay—contributed to heightened unrest, including episodes of strombolian activity, lava fountaining, intensified rockfalls, and elevated sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions. At its peak, SO₂ emissions reached approximately 13,128 tonnes per day, the highest recorded in the past 26 years. In recent days, however, volcanic activity has shown signs of easing, including reduced seismicity and the absence of the rumbling sounds previously heard within several kilometers of the crater. Alanis clarified that these sounds were associated with strombolian eruptions—named after Italy’s Stromboli Volcano—which produce cannon-like bursts, as well as increased rockfall events. Despite these improvements, Phivolcs emphasized that alert level downgrading is not automatic. The agency continues to implement a “stand-down” procedure, which carefully evaluates multiple parameters such as sulfur dioxide emissions, ground deformation, volcanic earthquakes, rockfall events, pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), plume activity, lava fountaining, and ongoing lava effusion. “While we are seeing a declining trend, it is not yet sufficient to justify lowering the alert level,” Alanis said. Since the onset of the current eruption, Mayon has produced an estimated 88 million cubic meters of volcanic materials, including lava, ash, gases, and pyroclastic flows. These deposits remain on the upper slopes and pose significant hazards, particularly within the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ). Phivolcs warned that these materials are unstable and highly erodible. Even without active eruptions, they may collapse and generate PDCs and ash clouds. Additionally, loose and still-hot volcanic debris may trigger dangerous lahars during heavy rainfall, threatening communities along river channels. As of July 29, Phivolcs recorded four volcanic earthquakes, 10 rockfall events, two PDCs, and sulfur dioxide emissions of 1,318 tonnes per day. Authorities continue to urge the public to strictly avoid entry into the 6-km PDZ and to remain vigilant against secondary hazards such as ashfall and lahars as Mayon remains under Alert Level 3. (PIA Bicol)                      

By Marlon Atun   LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines — For years, fisherfolk in Bulan, Sorsogon, have faced a common challenge: abundant catches during peak seasons but limited space, insufficient ice supply, and significant post-harvest losses that affect their income greatly. The inadequate supply of ice and lack of cold storage facilities compel many fishermen to either sell their catch at lower prices or discard unsold fish before they reach the market. This unfortunate situation is now set to change. During an on-site visit and dialogue with fisherfolk and stakeholders at the Bulan Fish Port, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced the approval of a major expansion of the facility, transforming its current size from 1.8 hectares into a five-hectare modern fish port complex. “From the current 1.8 hectares, this will expand to 5 hectares. We will establish a smokehouse, a fish dryer, and a fishmeal plant here in Bulan,” Tiu Laurel said in Filipino. “This is no longer just a plan; we are going to make it happen. We will fund this initiative,” he added, emphasizing that the project aligns with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s goal of uplifting fishing communities and strengthening local food systems. He continued, “Let’s help the President monitor the construction and completion of this project because it is for you.” “The President is focused on your needs,” Tiu Laurel told the fisherfolk. “Just a little more time, and you will see the change—this project will strengthen your livelihoods.” The expansion, estimated to cost P800 million, includes the construction of key post-harvest and value-added facilities, such as a smokehouse, a fish dryer, and a fishmeal plant. An initial P150 million has already been allocated for 2026, and the remaining funds have been approved for rollout before 2028. For the fisherfolk, the impact goes beyond just infrastructure. A larger port means faster unloading of catches, reduced congestion, and decreased spoilage—issues that have long affected Bulan’s fishing industry. “When the port is more spacious, transactions will be quicker, and the quality of the fish will improve,” said BFAR Bicol Regional Director Ariel Pioquinto. “This will significantly strengthen our post-harvest programs and help ensure better prices for our fisherfolk,” he said. Complementing the port expansion is a strengthened cold chain system. A newly completed ice plant and storage facility, with a capacity of 60 metric tons, built by the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), became fully operational in July 2026. The facility can produce ice within 24 hours and is equipped with a standby generator to ensure continuous operation, even during power outages, according to Romy Escandor, PFDA Bulan Port Manager. Ice blocks will be sold at P150 per 50-kilogram block, providing affordable access to preservation materials for fisherfolk, Escandor said. Recognizing seasonal demand—particularly during peak tamban fishing months—Tiu Laurel announced plans to install an additional ice plant and deploy break ice machines to augment supply immediately. After the expansion, it is expected to provide up to 100-120 metric tons of ice production per day during peak season. “Our goal is that 90 to 95 percent of the catch is properly iced and preserved, to minimize spoilage,” Tiu Laurel stated. “The Philippine Fish Port Development Authority (PFDA), as a government-owned and controlled corporation under the Department of Agriculture, will manage the operations of the fish port and related projects in Bulan,” said Glenn Panggpalan, the PFDA General Manager. For local fisherfolk like Joel Hona, chairperson of the Municipal Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council, this development addresses a long-standing issue. “In the past, fish were being thrown away because there was a shortage of ice. When ice is scarce, prices drop,” Hona explained. He also mentioned that congestion at the port posed safety risks. “When boats arrive simultaneously, accidents occur due to the crowded berthing area,” Hona added. “Now, the ice plant is a significant help in ensuring that the catch won’t go to waste,” he said. “The expansion provides great relief for better unloading of the catch.” Bulan Mayor Romeo Gordola expressed gratitude to the national government, calling the project a “long-awaited dream” for the municipality. “This is a huge benefit for the people of Bulan. Thank you to the President and the Department of Agriculture for hearing our fishermen’s dreams,” he said. Fish brokers and traders also view the expansion as a catalyst for local economic growth. “When the port is more organized, and there is adequate ice, local trade will flourish,” said local fish broker Ely Valeriano. “Thank you to Secretary Tiu Laurel for visiting us here in Bulan and bringing good news to our community and fishermen,” Valeriano added. “Thank you, President Bongbong Marcos, for the improvements in Bulan; we are already seeing positive changes,” he concluded. (Keren Anne Bernadas contributed to this report/PIA Bicol)              

NAGA CITY, Philippines — The Naga City Police Office (NCPO) is nearing the filing of criminal charges in the killing of teacher Leizel C. Permale after investigators arrested the suspect less than half a day after the crime, prompting Mayor Leni Robredo to commend the police for their swift and diligent work. Police Col. Rizaldy Caballero, NCPO city director, said the investigation is now in its final stages, with police completing the documentary requirements needed before formally filing the case in court. “We are almost there,” Caballero said, adding that the police have already achieved about 90 percent of the crime solution. “We are now only completing certain documents necessary in the filing of the case.” Leizel was killed on July 18, 2026. Investigators were able to identify and arrest the suspect within 11 to 12 hours after the incident in the nearby town of Pasacao, where the suspect resides. As of 8:30 a.m. on Monday, July 20, police investigators were still preparing the remaining evidence and documents needed for the filing of charges. Initial findings indicated tell-tale signs of robbery, while the victim was believed to have been suffocated to death. Mayor Leni Robredo congratulated Caballero and the police investigators for their industry and determination in pursuing the case, saying their prompt action has brought authorities close to solving the crime. “We are on top of the situation,” Robredo told local newsmen, stressing that the city government continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies to address criminality and strengthen public safety. The mayor also underscored her administration’s intensified efforts against the proliferation of illegal drugs, which law enforcement authorities have identified as one of the root causes of violent crimes committed in the city in previous years. Permale was a graduate of the Ateneo de Naga University College of Education and had been teaching at a grade school in Barangay Pacol for the past eight years. | via Jason B. Neola, head of CMO-Public Information Division