DAVAO, Philippines – As the United States and the Philippines celebrate 80 years of diplomatic ties, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Y. Robert Ewing honored Filipino war veterans at a Congressional Gold Medal awarding ceremony, the first of its kind in Tagum and second time in Mindanao. In Davao, he deepened economic and people-to-people ties in meetings with public and private sector leaders as well as students. In Tagum, Chargé d’Affaires Ewing joined Philippine Defense Undersecretary Pablo Lorenzo, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Administrator Reynaldo Mapagu, and Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib at the 45th presentation of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal. It is the highest civilian honor conferred by the U.S. Congress.  The awards delivered in Tagum were signed into law with the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015. These Congressional Gold Medals recognize the valor and sacrifice of Filipino veterans who fought shoulder-to-shoulder with U.S. forces to turn the tide in the Pacific during World War II. The first-ever Congressional Gold Medal was approved by the Continental Congress in 1776 and awarded to George Washington, a remarkable example of the deeply interwoven history of the United States and the Philippines as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. “When their nation called, they stepped forward.  They answered,” said Chargé d’Affaires Ewing.  “And in doing so, they not only shaped the course of history but also forged the enduring friendship between the Philippines and the United States – a relationship built on shared sacrifice, mutual trust, and deeply held values.” “The number of living Filipino World War II veterans continues to decline with each passing day, but through commemoration activities and recognition such as the awarding of the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal for Filipino World War II veterans, their heroic legacy will live on,” said Undersecretary Mapagu. In Davao, Chargé d’Affaires Ewing toured the National Museum of the Philippines-Davao in the People’s Park with City Councilors Rachel Zozobrado and Ragde Niño Ibuyan, Davao City Investment Promotion Center Officer in Charge April Marie Dayap, and a group of Philippine alumni of U.S. government exchange programs. The visit was an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the rich heritage and natural resources of Davao City and Mindanao while also discussing partnership opportunities to promote U.S.-Philippines prosperity. The Davao City officials expressed interest in exploring trade and investment opportunities, education and exchange programs, and revitalizing sister city relationships. Chargé d’Affaires Ewing also took a moment for a group photo with the City Councilors in front of the iconic Davao City Hall, which celebrates its 100th anniversary, sharing a connection with the U.S. Embassy in Manila, as both buildings were designed by renowned Filipino architect Juan M. Arellano. At a General Membership Meeting of the Mindanao chapter of the American Chamber of Commerce, Chargé d’Affaires Ewing spoke about efforts to enhance supply chain resilience and expand energy cooperation, and underscored opportunities for two-way trade and investment including the upcoming SelectUSA Investment Summit, a Trump Administration priority initiative to promote investment into the United States. Chargé d’Affaires Ewing placed a spotlight on U.S.-Philippines education partnerships when visiting Filipino participants in the U.S. Embassy’s English Access Scholarship Program, a two-year, intensive after-school program that enhances academic and employment opportunities for public school students aged 13 to 15 through American excellence in English language instruction. “Chargé d’Affaires Ewing’s visit to the 50 English Access Scholarship Program students highlights the strong commitment to youth development and educational partnership.  His presence affirms the scholars’ potential and inspires them to strive for excellence, leaving a lasting impact,” said Davao City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Reynante Solitario. “The United States and the Philippines share more than an ironclad Alliance,” said Chargé d’Affaires Ewing.  “We share a deep and enduring friendship and a commitment to partnerships that deliver concrete benefits for the American people while strengthening the bonds between our two nations.”    

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Philippines — The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), through Executive Director Usec. Ernesto C. Torres Jr., has joined the growing call for justice for civilians killed in Negros Island, following reports from the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) that 28 individuals has been slain since March 2025, an average of two civilians murdered every month. “This pattern of killings is deeply alarming and morally indefensible. When two civilians are being murdered every month on one island alone, we are no longer speaking of isolated incidents, we are confronting a sustained campaign of terror,” Torres said. According to the 3ID report, the most recent victim was an elderly woman shot outside her home in Barangay Tapi, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental. She was allegedly accused by the New People’s Army (NPA) of being linked to a previous encounter between government troops and communist rebels. Torres stressed that branding civilians as informants or “spies” without due process effectively paints a target on their backs. “This is the deadly consequence of so-called ‘spy-tagging.’ Once labeled by the communist terrorist group as a traitor or government asset, a civilian becomes a marked individual — condemned without trial, without evidence, without humanity,” Torres emphasized. He recalled the earlier killing of Lola Leonor Aguit, an elderly civilian mercilessly slained after being publicly accused by communist elements. Her death, he said, reflects a ruthless pattern of executions carried out against defenseless individuals. “The killing of Lola Leonor Aguit shocked the conscience of the nation. An elderly woman — publicly vilified, then brutally silenced. That is not armed struggle. That is terrorism inflicted on one’s own people,” Torres said. Torres warned that the steady average of two fatalities per month signals a disturbing normalization of violence in communities already burdened by poverty and insecurity. “Two civilians every month is not a statistic — it is a family shattered, a community traumatized, and a future stolen. Violence has no place in communities that are striving for peace and development,” he stressed. He echoed the call of the 3ID urging the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to conduct a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation into the killings. “We respectfully urge the CHR to look squarely into these crimes. Human rights must apply equally to all. The rights of farmers, elderly women, laborers, and ordinary community members in Negros deserve the same vigilance and protection as any other Filipino,” he said. Torres underscored that the country must reject any narrative that justifies violence against civilians under the guise of ideology. “This is not revolutionary justice. This is vigilante execution masquerading as ideology. It is a gross violation of the most fundamental right, the right to life.” “Justice must never be selective. Silence in the face of these killings only emboldens further bloodshed. We stand with the families of the victims and demand accountability. The blood of civilians must never be trivialized as collateral to ideology,” Torres concluded. The NTF-ELCAC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting vulnerable communities and exposing practices that endanger innocent lives under the cloak of insurgent propaganda. (PR)        

Negros Occidental, Philippines – Northern Negros Electric Cooperative, Inc. (NONECO) has officially entered into a 30-megawatt (MW) power supply agreement with Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) through Aboitiz Solar Power Inc. (ASPI) and GNPower Mariveles Energy Center (GMEC). Following a successful Competitive Selection Process, AboitizPower will provide a diversified energy mix to NONECO, consisting of a 10-MW mid-merit supply from ASPI and a 20-MW baseload requirement from GMEC to meet the cooperative’s core demand, helping stabilize electricity costs and reliability in its service area. “The steady supply at competitive rates ensures continuous support for local growth and enhanced quality of life as our region evolves, fostering a prosperous future for the businesses and communities we serve,” said Nicolas U. Camara, NONECO Board President. “We are excited about this long-term deal as it aligns with our commitment in helping address unique power requirements across all service areas,” added Engr. Wilbe B. Bilbao, NONECO General Manager. NONECO serves the municipalities of Victorias (now a city), Manapla and Cadiz City. At present, its service area coverage has expanded to include the cities of Sagay, Escalante and San Carlos, as well as the towns of Toboso, E.B. Magalona and Calatrava. “At the core of this partnership is trust. We are honored that NONECO has chosen AboitizPower to deliver a 30 MW combined supply that will sustain communities and business alike,” said Gerard Roxas, AboitizPower Wholesale Vice President for Commercial Planning and Portfolio Management. “By supplying dependable baseload power and solar energy, we are providing a balanced solution that addresses the dual need for sustainability and reliability.”                        

CATARMAN, Northern Samar, Philippines — In celebration of the Araw ng mga Kasambahay, the Provincial Government in collaboration with DOLE, PSA, SSS, PhilHealth, PAG-IBIG, TESDA, NSDWCC, and IBP, brought free essential and wellness services especially for Nortehanon domestic workers at the Provincial Capitol Gym, Barangay Dalakit, Catarman, on February 18. Our beloved household companions engaged in a day of self-care, filled with fun and relaxation as they availed different services ranging from haircut, manicure, pedicure, massage, to health, skills development, legal, employment, insurance, and loan programs and services. In the same event, identified Kasambahay beneficiaries received livelihood package including gas stoves, oven, water dispenser, food display racks, kitchenware and more. Meanwhile, TUPAD beneficiaries also received livelihood assistance under DOLE’s cash for work program. Symbolic of his appreciaiton for the sector, Governor Harris Ongchuan joined the gathering, with DOLE Regional Director Atty. Dax Villaruel, Assistant Regional Director Atty. Joan Noya-Nidua, SP Committee Chair on Labor and Employment Board Member Gina Ong-Silvano, Regional Kasambahay Focal Katherine Singzon, NSPESO Manager Rose Anne Suan, DOLE Northern Samar head Engr. Primo Guarin and representatives of participating agencies. The Araw ng Kasambahay is a meaningful celebration that acknowledges the contribution of domestic workers in our communities and homes. With the strong teamwork of the Provincial Government, National Government, and Civil Society Organizations, we have offered the best gift in this special day – services that strengthened their protection and promote their rights, well-being, and welfare.  

CEBU, Philippines � Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro reminded young athletes vying for glory in the Cebu Provincial Sports and Cultural Meet 2026 that character, perseverance, and teamwork matter most, as she led the formal opening of the weeklong tournament on Sunday at the Carcar City Sports Center. In her address before a crowd of young athletes, coaches, parents and teachers, Gov. Baricuatro said that true triumph is measured not only by the number of medals won, but by the resilience forged in the face of adversity. �To our young athletes, remember this: winning is great, but character is greater,� Gov. Baricuatro said. �Dili lang medals ang inyong dad-on pauli, kon dili lessons on teamwork, resilience, ug pagbangon bisan kapoy na. Ana gyud na ang tinuod nga champion.� Mindful of the athletes� needs, the governor assured the young competitors that the provincial government is ready to back up its words with action to advance sports programs in the province. �As your governor, and kami tanan sa Provincial Government, we will always support programs that nurture your talents. Kay para kanamo, ang kabatan-onan mao ang kusog sa Sugbo � and you are proof that our future is in very capable hands,� she said. The governor also encouraged the athletes to compete with integrity and to savor the experience beyond the scoreboards. �Play hard, play fair, and most importantly, enjoy the moment. Make friends, create memories, and show everyone what it means to be a proud Cebuano,� she said. Joining the governor were host Mayor Patrick Barcenas and other chief executives from across the province, alongside Dr. Senen Priscillo Paulin, Schools Division Superintendent of DepEd Cebu Province. Vice Governor Glenn Anthony Soco, along with Second District Board Member Raymond Calderon and Seventh District Board Member Cesar Baricuatro, also graced the opening ceremony. The weeklong tournament, which runs from February 15 to 20, unfurls across multiple venues in the City of Naga, Carcar City, and the towns of Minglanilla, San Fernando, Sibonga, and Argao. This year�s edition carries the theme, �Nurturing Resilience, Strengthening Perseverance and Building Character Through the Cebu Provincial Sports and Cultural Meet 2026,� highlighting not only athletic excellence but also personal growth among Cebu�s youth. 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘄𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗲𝗯𝘂𝗮𝗻𝗼 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 The sports and cultural meet, which draws participants from 44 towns under the jurisdiction of DepEd Cebu Province, features not only athletic competitions but also cultural events such as balak (Cebuano poetry), balitaw (a love debate in song and dance between a man and a woman), vocal performances, folk dance, cheer dance, and sports dance, among others. Winning participants will represent Cebu Province at the Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association Meet, which will be hosted by the City of Naga from March 22 to 28. The event is a joint undertaking with the Department of Education (DepEd) Cebu Province Schools Division, backed by the participating local government units. | 𝑪𝑨𝑷𝑰𝑻𝑶𝑳 𝑷𝑰𝑶, 𝑷𝒉𝒐𝒕𝒐𝒔 𝒃𝒚 𝑭𝑬 � �

Operatives of Special Operations Unit NIR, PNP Drug Enforcement Group under the command of Director PBGen.Elmer Ragay, conducted a manhunt operation that resulted in the successful arrest of one a.k.a. “Mark, 22, ” Top #9 Most Wanted Person Provincial Level and Top #2 Most Wanted Person Municipal Level (MWP) in BS Aquino Drive Brgy. 4, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, on February 9. The arrest was made by virtue of a warrant of arrest issued by Hon. Karen Joy Tan Gaston, Presiding Judge of RTC 6, Branch 43, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental dated February 5, 2026 for violation of Section 12, Article II of R.A. 9165, docketed under Criminal Case Number 25-62519 for service of sentence. The arrested wanted person was brought to Police Station 2, Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. for documentation and proper disposition. “The PNP Drug Enforcement Group commends the operatives of the Special Operations Unit NIR for the successful arrest of Top 9 provincial, Top 2 municipal most wanted person. This achievement demonstrates their professionalism, dedication, and continued commitment to the enforcement of the law and the campaign against illegal drugs.” Ragay, stated. Recently, joint operatives of Special Operations Unit 10, PNP DEG, together with Regional Explosive Canine Unit 10, Regional Intelligence Unit 10, Regional Intelligence Division PRO 10, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10, PNP Maritime Group (5th SOU SND SBC), Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit Lanao Del Norte and IMEG – Mindanao Field unit 1, conducted a buy-bust operation in Purok 3, Brgy. Caniogan, Tubod, Lanao Del Norte that resulted in the successful arrest of one a.k.a. “Imaw,” male, 28 years old, identified as a High-Value Individual (HVI) and one a.k.a. “Bryan,” male, 24 years old, identified as a Street Level Individual (SLI), on February 10. The operating units seized approximately 15 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated total standard drug price of PhP102,000.00, along with other non-drug items. The arrested suspects were brought to Tubod Municipal Police Station for documentation and proper disposition, while the confiscated drug evidence was turned over to the Regional Forensic Unit 10, Patag, Cagayan De Oro City for laboratory examination. “The arrest of a High-Value Individual in Tubod, Lanao del Norte reflects the PNP Drug Enforcement Group’s relentless drive against illegal drugs. This operation sends a clear warning that drug personalities will be pursued and brought to justice through sustained, intelligence-driven operations.” Ragay said.  

  NORTHERN SAMAR, Philippines — The Kadayaw Festival continues to shine as a vibrant tribute to Pambujan’s rich history and diverse cultural roots. More than a celebration, it is a meaningful expression of gratitude, faith, and the community’s shared identity. In honor of Sto. Niño, the Child Jesus, the festival comes alive through colorful dances that reflect the creativity, passion, and artistry of the Pambujanons. Dancers clad in vibrant and intricately designed costumes transform the streets and dance floor into a spectacle of tradition and cultural pride. As Pambujanons mark another year of Kadayaw in 2026, the municipality proudly celebrates the unity and rich cultural diversity of its people. Below are photos capturing the energy, devotion, and vibrant spirit of the Kadayaw Festival. (PHOTO Courtesy from Northern Samar PIO)

  CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Department of Tourism – Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) participates in the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) Love the Philippines Regional Showcase, held from January 26–30, 2026 at NUSTAR Cebu, highlighting the diverse culture, indigenous craftsmanship, and tourism offerings of the Cordillera Administrative Region, which is composed of Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, and Baguio City. During the forum, delegates from attending ASEAN Member States have the opportunity to visit the regional showcase, which features Ikat woven textiles from Ifugao, crafted into garments that reflect traditional patterns and indigenous craftsmanship. Also highlighted are tour packages that include the Rice Terraces UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with information on other destinations across the Cordillera Administrative Region that reflect the distinct culture, traditions, and community-based tourism experiences. DOT-CAR’s participation underscores the richness of Cordillera culture and the region’s continuing efforts to share its heritage, indigenous ingenuity, and tourism offerings with a wider audience.    

BORONGAN CITY, Philippines — In celebration of Philippine Airlines’ third year of connecting Borongan City to the world through the skies, a team of executives from the Borongan City Government made an important visit to the flag carrier’s headquarters at the Lucio K. Tan, Jr. (LKTJ) Center on Tuesday, January 20, to discuss the team’s shared vision for the development of BPA operations. With Mr. Justin Nicholas Warby, PAL’s Vice President for Sales; Mr. Ping Choi Chung, Assistant Vice President for Network Planning; and Mr. Matthew Mark Llamas, Senior Specialist for Development and Sales in attendance, the meeting tackled proposed promotional approaches highlighting Borongan City as a premier tourist destination for Mabuhay Milers. Dubbed as the gateway to the rest of Eastern Samar, Borongan City’s flight tourism campaigns are also poised to target other municipalities in the province. During the meeting, Warby expressed his appreciation to the Borongan representatives for taking the time to visit PAL headquarters, noting that Borongan is celebrated as the first-ever local government unit to implement an efficient partnership model with the airline. As a surfing enthusiast, the PAL Sales VP also voiced an interest in exploring Borongan, a famed surfing destination in Eastern Visayas. The meeting culminated in a tour of the Philippine Airlines Museum, where guests were treated to an immersive display of the airline’s 85-year history in the skies. The LGU Borongan party was composed of Acting Mayor Emmanuel Tiu Sonco; City Legal Officer Atty. Celestino Cabato; Atty. Orland Jerico Cordero, Head of the Internal Audit Services Office; City Information Officer and Flight Ops Chair Vittorio Ignatius Raagas, Executive Assistant Amanthea Dala, and Marissa Josephine Acorin, Officer-In-Charge at the City Tourism Office. As part of the flight operations’ slated innovations this year, the City Government of Borongan is set to launch a flight booking website that will be made accessible for passengers looking to book LGU seats. This development is expected to give significant relief to those who cannot make a personal visit to the Fun Borongan Booking Office to make their reservations and payments. Borongan City renewed its partnership with Philippine Airlines on the 19th of December last year.