(URC Sales Vice President, Cherry M. Moran, or as the guests dubbed Ate Cherry, welcomed the guests during the Share-lebrate Joy in Opus Mall.)   Snack and beverage maker Universal Robina Corporation (URC) welcomed the new year by sharing and celebrating joy with its partner foundations. In collaboration with Robinsons Supermarket and Metro Supermarket, URC held its “Share-lebrate Joy UR Way” event to give kids a fun movie screening experience. URC delighted kids from SOS Children’s Village, Norfil Foundation, Grace to Be Born and the House of Refuge, through various fun activities, special gifts, and an exciting movie screening at Ayala Center in Cebu, and at Opus Mall in Quezon City, last January. Before the screening started, the kids were invited to join the energizing Hot Potato Hustle game, and to happily dance with URC’s adorable mascots – Goodday Gogo in Cebu, Goodday Ori, and Cloud 9 Captain Choco in Manila. Then, it was time to watch Mufasa: The Lion King, a movie which traces the origins of Simba’s father in the Lion King. The movie captured the kids’ imagination with its colorful cast of characters and catchy tunes. Of course, they rooted for the titular character as he goes on a heroic journey from lost cub to the brave lion king that many know and love. When asked about their favorite character in the movie, Mufasa was the hands-down favorite.  “I loved how Mufasa values his home and family so much,” said Kurt, one of the young kids in attendance. This was echoed by other kids like Zyra, who praised Mufasa for being “very brave and strong, and defending his friends and family all the time.” The sounds of happiness echoed through the halls of the cinema as the kids excitedly talked about the movie with each other and their guardians. They also received goodie bags filled with URC’s delicious snacks and drinks, Jack ‘n Jill Knots, Jack n Jill Roller Coaster, Jack n Jill Nips and Ready to Drink Beverages such as C2, Goodday, Cloud 9 and more. URC not only aims to delight everyone with good food choices but also offer people fun and memorable experiences through its activities. With events like “Share-lebrate Joy UR Way”, URC hopes to give back to communities and give them joyful experiences that they can cherish. Universal Robina Corporation (URC) produces iconic brands such as Piattos, Nova, VCut, Calbee, Cloud 9, Nips, Hello, El Real, C2, and Swiss Miss, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. One of the country’s largest food and beverage manufacturers, URC has also dabbled into the spiked seltzer category with Chill, as well as the breading category with the healthy and delicious VegiGood!. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).

In a proactive effort to combat illegal drug activities, various police units in Central Visayas conducted a series of well-coordinated operations that resulted in the recovery of P13.6 million worth of illegal drugs and a firearm. These operations, executed across multiple locations, highlight the effective collaboration between local police forces and partner agencies, demonstrating a united commitment to enhancing public safety and addressing drug trafficking concerns. PBGen Redrico Maranan, Regional Director of PRO7, announced that the largest seizure occurred in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, where 1.5 kilograms of shabu, valued at P10,200,000, along with a firearm and several other items, were confiscated. This operation was a collaborative effort involving the Tagbilaran City Police Station, Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPPO), and PDEA Bohol in Purok 7, Dangoy Street, Baranay Bool, Tagbilaran City, on March 3 A 34-year-old individual was apprehended during this operation. In another operation in Sitio Lumbang, Barangay Pulpogan, Consolacion, Cebu, officers from the Consolacion Municipal Police Station and PDEA 7 successfully arrested two individuals with 150 grams of illegal drugs valued at P1,020,000 during a drug bust. Meanwhile, the City Intelligence Unit and the City Drug Enforcement Unit of the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO) apprehended a 36-year-old high-value drug suspect in a separate operation in the North Reclamation Area of Mandaue City on the same day. They seized 200 grams of shabu worth P1,360,000, along with cash and other items. Additionally, on March 4, 2025, authorities recovered an extra 150 grams of shabu valued at P1,020,000, along with buy-bust money and a belt bag used for concealment in Purok 4, Barangay Larapan, Jagna, Bohol by Drug Enforcement Team of Jagna Municipal Police Station, along PDEA Bohol. All suspects are currently in police custody as authorities prepare charges under Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Maranan commended the dedication of the various police units involved in these critical operations and emphasized their ongoing efforts to ensure a safer and more secure Region 7. He noted that the recovered illegal substances were destined for distribution within the region, posing potential risks to community health and safety. The operation also led to the seizure of firearms, highlighting the connection between drug trafficking and associated violence. “These operations are part of a peace and order operational formula aimed at disrupting the supply chains of illegal drugs and dismantling the networks that support such activities. The successful outcomes reflect our commitment to safeguarding the community and upholding the rule of law in Central Visayas,” said PBGen Maranan. He further stated that ongoing investigations are in progress to identify and apprehend additional individuals involved in these illegal activities. (PRO7-PIO)

PUERTO PRINCESA, Philippines – The vibrant city of Puerto Princesa  is set to host an unforgettable weekend of endurance, community, and celebration as over 1,000 participants from more than 40 countries, across all three weekend events converge for the IRONMAN® 70.3 Puerto Princesa weekend starting February 27 – March 2,  2025. Beyond the main event, an array of races and festivities will engage participants of all  ages and skill levels, making for a truly immersive multisport experience. The IRONMAN  weekend coincies with the Balayong Festival which also commemorates the City’s Foundation  day. A Weekend of Racing and Celebration The excitement kicks off on February 28 with the 2GO Princesa Run, a women-focused fitness event drawing over 300 participants. The following day, March 1, shines the spotlight  on the next generation of endurance athletes with the RLC IRONKIDS Swim-Run and  IRONKIDS Run, offering young competitors the chance to experience the thrill of racing. Meanwhile, the Sunrise Sprint, a short-distance triathlon, provides both beginners and  seasoned athletes with a fast and accessible challenge. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere is Puerto Princesa’s Balayong Festival, a citywide  celebration of its iconic cherry blossoms, further enhancing the festive race weekend  experience for athletes and spectators alike. Puerto Princesa City Mayor Lucilo R. Bayron expressed his excitement for the upcoming race,  highlighting its significance beyond just competition: “It is with great pride and excitement that we host the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa  on March 2, 2025. This event is not just a test of endurance, strength, and  determination but also a celebration of the unstoppable human spirit. We salute each  and every one of you for the dedication and perseverance you have put into training  for this prestigious race. This event is more than just a race; it is an opportunity to  embrace new challenges, build friendships, and experience the heart and soul of our  city.” Sunrise Events Inc. (SEI), the organizer of IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa, remains  dedicated to providing top-tier race experiences that unite athletes and communities  alike. Princess Galura, SEI President and Managing Director, emphasized the impact of the event: “At Sunrise Events, we are committed to delivering world-class races that not only  challenge athletes but also inspire communities. IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa is a testament to the power of endurance sports in bringing people together—from elite  competitors to first-time racers, from local supporters to international visitors. This race  is more than just a test of physical limits; it is an opportunity to experience the  breathtaking beauty of Puerto Princesa, embrace the warmth of its people, and  celebrate the unbreakable human spirit. We are excited to welcome athletes from  around the world and look forward to an unforgettable race weekend.” A Revamped and Faster Course for 2025 The 2025 IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa promises an exhilarating new race experience with  a redesigned, faster, and more scenic course. Race Director Julian Valencia unveiled  significant course enhancements, including a reconfigured bike leg and an all-new run route  through the heart of the city. “We’ve refined our bike course to be not only faster but also more picturesque, and our new  run course offers athletes an immersive experience of Puerto Princesa’s charm,” said  Valencia. Athletes will take on the 1.9km swim, 90km bike, and 21km run, testing their endurance  against a world-class field. Elite Competition on the Start Line The race will feature a competitive lineup of both local and international talent. Philippine  standouts Mervin Santiago, Sebastian Julian Teves, and Jeremy Ruiz will battle for the  podium in the men’s division, while Bianca Española, Mary Pauline Fornea, Nina Pascua, and  Melody Amorin lead the charge in the women’s race. They will face top international  contenders, including Thailand’s Anna Lobanova, Indonesia’s Citra Melati, Japan’s Mitsuki  Tanaka-Tan, and the US’ Megan Brazell. Sunrise Events Philippines has also confirmed the participation of elite triathletes from South  Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Canada, Germany, South Africa, and beyond, adding to the race’s  global prestige. Special Competitions and Awards The IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa will host the Badge Tally Competition,  rewarding IRONMAN-affiliated TriClubs with points for every member who participates in the  IRONMAN 70.3, 5150, and Sunrise Sprint events. These points contribute to cash rewards  throughout the 2025 Triathlon Season. The Puerto Princesa Championship Awards will recognize outstanding achievements,  offering: P50,000 each to the First Filipino Finisher (male and female) P200,000 to the IRONMAN-affiliated TriClub with the most participants in the  IRONMAN 70.3 and Sunrise Sprint races Personalized Race Gear for Athletes Adding to the race-day excitement, LGR Athletic Wears Inc. introduces customizable athlete  shirts, allowing participants to personalize their official race gear with their names and race  numbers, creating a meaningful keepsake from this prestigious event. The 2025 IRONMAN 70.3 in Puerto Princesa is backed by Global Premier Partners – AG1,  Breitling 1884, Fulgaz, Hoka, Hyperice, Qatar Airways, Roka, TicketSocket, TriDot, Zoot,  wahoo; Supplier Partners Asia – Always Advancing, Compressport; Host City Puerto Princesa;  Official Water Amlan; Official Electrolyte Beverage ion+; Sponsors LGr, Manila Bulletin,  Tempo, Robinsons Supermarket, Sante, Teresa Marvel; Media Partners One sports+, Cignal,  Sportograf. Organized and produced by Sunrise Events Inc. IRONMAN® 70.3 Puerto Princesa promises not only a true test of endurance, strength, and  determination but also an unforgettable racing experience in a tropical paradise.

Authorities seized P2.5 million worth of illegal drugs, as well as firearms, and arrested five high-value drug personalities in four separate buy-bust operations on February 21. The first operation was conducted by the Station Drug Enforcement Unit of Police Station 11 of the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), in Sitio Badjawan, Barangay Mambaling, Cebu City. A 23-year-old drug suspect was arrested during this operation. Confiscated from the suspect were buy-bust money, a transparent plastic container used for illegal drugs, one homemade .38 caliber revolver, and illegal drugs weighing 50 grams valued at P340,000.00. In another operation, police seized 200 grams of shabu worth P1,360,000.00 from a 31-year-old drug suspect at 12:40 AM in Mandaue City, executed by the Station Drug Enforcement Unit of Police Station 4 of the Mandaue City Police (MCPO). The Provincial Intelligence Unit and the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit of the Cebu Police Provincial Office (CPPO), along with the Borbon Municipal Police Station, confiscated 70 grams of shabu valued at P476,000. Additionally, they seized a .45 caliber pistol, ammunition, a steel magazine, a sling bag, and an eyeglass case that was used to store the illegal drugs. This operation took place at 5:52 AM in Brgy. Lugo, Borbon, Cebu, targeting a high-profile drug suspect and his accomplice. In Purok Monggo, Barangay Bong-ao, Valencia, Negros Oriental, authorities confiscated an estimated 51 grams of shabu valued at P346,800.00, along with other evidence, during a joint buy-bust operation involving the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit, the Provincial Intelligence Unit, the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Unit (NOPPO), and the Regional Intelligence Unit. This operation resulted in the arrest of a 35-year-old suspect from Pamplona, Negros Oriental. “The Central Visayas police force remains relentless in our fight against illegal drugs. We will not stop until everyone involved is brought to justice. We will pursue every lead, mobilize resources, and collaborate with our community to eradicate this drug menace in the region,” said PBGen Redrico Maranan, Regional Dircetor, PRO7. The suspects are currently in police custody and face charges of violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, Republic Act 10591, and the Comelec gun ban. (PRO7-PIO)            

  Camp Sgt. Quintin M. Merecido, Buhangin, Davao City — A decisive joint anti-illegal drugs operation was conducted at Oakwood Residence Purok 2, Barangay New Visayas, Panabo City, Davao del Norte, that resulted in the arrest of two of the region’s top high-value individuals and the confiscation of 6.537 kilograms of suspected shabu with a Standard Drug Price (SDP) of P44,451,600.00 on February 15. The arrest was made against the regional-level top 1 and regional-level top 3 drug personalities listed in the regional priority 10 High-Value Individual (HVI). Following the arrest is the confiscation of the following evidence: six zip-sealed transparent plastic bags containing white crystalline substances containing suspected shabu, eight transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substances containing suspected shabu, one genuine 1000-peso bill with 199 machine copies of it, 200 machine copies of a 500-peso bill, one INFINIX smartphone, one weighing scale, and one gray plastic container. The arrested persons are now under the custody of the PNP DayNor Panabo MPS, Davao Norte Police Provincial Office (DNPPO) for proper disposition. A case is currently being prepared against them for violating R.A. 9165. With this, PRO 11 Regional Director Police Brig.Gen. Leon Victor Rosete sends his message to all drug peddlers that PRO 11 will not tolerate those who destroy lives for their own gain. “We will not waver in our fight against illegal drugs. We will be relentless in our pursuit of those who threaten the safety and the future of the people in the community, especially in the Davao Region,” he said. Further, Rosete congratulates the successful anti-illegal drugs operation led by the personnel of the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 11, together with personnel from the Regional Intelligence Division PRO 11, City Special Operations Group/City Drug Enforcement Unit, Panabo City Police Station, 2nd Davao Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd DNPMFC), Provincial Intelligence Unit-DNPPO, and Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

In a commendable display of teamwork, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region 7, along with Police Regional Office 7 and various law enforcement agencies, successfully executed an intelligence-driven operation that resulted in the apprehension of two high-profile drug suspects and a major seizure of illegal substances worth P170 million, on January 23. The operation unfolded when a 41-year-old truck driver and his 63-year-old mother, traveling from Masbate to Cebu City via RORO, were subject to a routine inspection at around 7:00 AM on January 23, 2025. This inspection, carried out by a coalition of agencies including the Philippine Drug Enforcement Unit 7 Seaport Interdiction Unit, Naval Forces Central, PNP Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit, PNP Enforcement Group, PNP Maritime Group, Philippine Coast Guard, Cebu Port Authority Police, Bureau of Customs, and the Cebu City Police Office’s Police Station 4, took place at Pier 4, Cebu City. Authorities discovered a large carton box containing 25 packs of suspected shabu, weighing a total of 25 kilograms, with an estimated street value of P170 million. In addition to the drugs, the search yielded two identification cards, a wine red Sedan vehicle, and three mobile phones. Following the discovery, chemists from the PDEA7 Regional Office Laboratory conducted an immediate screening, confirming the presence of methamphetamine hydrochloride in the substances. PRO7 Director PBGen Redrico Maranan said the operation is a product of the continuous campaign against illegal drugs and the apprehension of high-profile drug dealers. “This successful seizure highlights our commitment to eradicating illegal drugs and protecting our communities. Through effective collaboration with our partner agencies, we have prevented dangerous substances from harming lives. We will continue our strategic efforts to maintain a drug-free Central Visayas,” said Maranan. He added law enforcement remains dedicated to upholding safety and well-being in the region. The suspects are set to face charges under Section 5 of the Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act. (PRO7-PIO)    

ZAMBOANGA CITY — Mayor John Dalipe has strongly condemned the killing of a couple in Boalan and ordered the police to immediately arrest the perpetrators. Authorities said the couple – Fathie Bara Loong and his wife, Bairivalia were killed in a gun attack in Barangay Boalan shortly before 9:00 am of January 22. The couple’s four-year-old daughter who witnessed the gruesome murder, was unscathed. Police said the gunman approached and gunned down Fathie, who was inspecting the construction of their store, and later shot Bairivalia, who was sitting next to her daughter on the passenger seat of a delivery van. “This dastardly and cowardly act of violence has no place in Zamboanga City which continuously values and promotes peace among its culturally diverse communities,” Mayor Dalipe said in a statement posted on his facebook page. Dalipe ordered the Zamboanga City Police Office to immediately arrest and bring the perpetrators to justice. He likewise called on the security sector “to intensify stringent security measures in light of the existing gun ban due to the 2025 elections.” (CMO-PIO) (file photo)

The Penitential Walk with Mary and Traslacion 2025, part of the 460th Fiesta Señor celebration, was marked by a peaceful, solemn, and orderly atmosphere, as reported by the Police Regional Office7 (PRO7). A strong security presence, with around 2,163 personnel, partner agencies, and force multipliers, was strategically deployed along the procession route and at designated entry and exit points to ensure the safety of devotees. According to PRO7 Regional Director Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, the crowd estimate from the City’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office indicated that approximately 300,000 devotees participated in the procession, which began at 3 AM from Guadalupe Church in Barangay Guadalupe to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu. General Maranan encouraged the public to continue collaborating, adhere to the implemented security measures, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. “This year’s religious event, attended by a large number of devotees, experienced no major incidents. I commend everyone involved for their efforts in making these events successful and orderly. Together, let us turn the Sinulog 2025 Festival into a display of our faith and a meaningful experience for everyone,” he said. The Traslacion follows the Walk with Mary foot procession, transferring the image of the Holy Child from the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño to the National Shrine of St. Joseph in Mandaue City, further emphasizing the significance of community and faith in this tradition. (PRO7-PIO)

Authorities in Mandaue City carried out a significant joint anti-drug operation resulting in the seizure of 1.5 kilograms of illegal drugs and the arrest of a high-profile drug suspect, according to the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7. The operation, which took place around 8:07 PM on January 8, 2025, at FE Zuellig Street in the North Reclamation Area of Barangay Subangdaku, was led by personnel from the Mandaue City Police Office’s City Intelligence Unit and City Drug Enforcement Unit, in collaboration with the Regional Special Enforcement Team from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office 7 (PDEA RO7 RSET MCO). During the operation, officers apprehended a 42-year-old high-profile drug suspect from Liloan, Cebu. They recovered several sachets of methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as “shabu”, weighing 1.5 kilograms, valued at P10.2 million. In addition to the drugs, authorities confiscated buy-bust money, a mobile phone, and a backpack used to conceal the illegal substances. PBGen Dionisio B Bartolome, Jr, Officer-in-Charge of PRO7, highlighted the importance of this operation. “This seizure marks the largest illegal drug bust recorded this week. We urge the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Together, we can enhance our efforts to ensure the safety and security of the Central Visayas community,” said PBGen Bartolome Jr. The illegal drugs that were seized have been forwarded to the Regional Forensic Unit for examination and analysis. The high-profile drug suspect remains in police custody as investigators prepare the necessary documentation to file charges under R.A. 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. (PRO7-PIO)