ZAMBOANGA CITY — Mayor John Dalipe expresses full support to the programs and projects of the National Authority for Children Care (NACC), as he joins the campaign to fight the stigma against adoption declaring he is a proud AMPON – Anak, Magulang, Pamilya, Ordinaryo, pero Natatangi! This, as NACC Undersecretary Jannela Ejercito Estrada and other NACC officials recently paid Mayor Dalipe a courtesy visit in City Hall to strengthen ties and partnerships with the city government and to capacitate the LGU to carry out shared responsibility in adoption and alternative child care mandate. The NACC which is an attached agency of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Office (DSWD) is in the process of building a league of AMPON Heroes for Children. Usec. Estrada together with NACC Director III Imelda Ronda and Deputy Director for Services – Assistant Secretary Rowena Macalintal and NACC ambassadors Jake Ejercto and Thou Reyes, was in Zamboanga City recently to meet various agencies and the media to discuss the significance of legal adoption and the various alternative child care programs and services offered by the NACC. The NACC is also a partner of the city government in the conduct of the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival 2024. Photo credits: Kathy Wee Sit

Dumanjug is set to build a new civic and business center which breaks ground on October 4. The P600-million Pablo P. Garcia Civic and Business Center, named in honor of the late governor and congressman Pablo “Pabling” Garcia, will soon stand in a 27-hectare property in Barangay Tapon. Mayor Efren Guntrano Gica shared that the project honors Gov. Pabling’s legacy, who served the province and district with distinction. “It is just right and proper nga tagaan og pasidungog, honor ang atong former congressman, former governor nga taga Dumanjug” Gica said. The groundbreaking event was graced by the Garcia family, led by Gov. Gwen Garcia together with third district representative Pablo John “PJ” Garcia, marking the start of construction for this Capitol-inspired center. Once completed, it will house various municipal offices and promote economic growth through commercial spaces, agriculture offices, and even a sports facility. (PIOCebu)

Kuta Kankabato, San Jose, Tacloban City — A total of 97 individuals were arrested during a one-day Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operation (SACLEO) conducted province-wide from 8:00 AM on September 26 to 8:00 AM on September 27, 2024. Col Dionisio DC Apas,Jr., provincial director said, among those apprehended was a regular member of the New People’s Army (NPA) from the Bagong Hukbong Bayan (BHB)/Buhawi Platoon, who surrendered along with a homemade “paltik” handgun and 13 rounds of ammunition. Alias “RJ,” a former BHB/Buhawi Platoon member who operated in various municipalities in Leyte, Northern Samar, and Sorsogon, surrendered at the 2nd LPMFC Headquarters in Brgy. Cristina, Calubian, Leyte, on September 26, 2024. He decided to return to the fold of the law and reaffirm his allegiance to the government. In addition, two Most Wanted Persons were arrested during the SACLEO operations. The Top 7 Provincial-Level Most Wanted Person was apprehended in Baybay City for Acts of Lasciviousness and Sexual Assault, while the Top 2 City-Level Most Wanted Person was arrested in Inopacan, Leyte, for violating Section 3 of RA 10883 (Anti-Carnapping Law) and Theft of a Motor Vehicle. For other wanted persons, 16 operations were conducted, resulting in the arrest of 16 individuals across multiple municipalities: three in Barugo, three in Palo, two in Alangalang, and one each in Babatngon, Inopacan, Jaro, Javier, Matalom, Pastrana, and Tunga. Regarding violations of RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002), six operations were carried out, leading to five arrests in Alangalang, Albuera, Baybay, Isabel, and Matalom. One individual remains at large in Villaba. In connection with PD 1602 (Anti-Illegal Gambling), three operations were conducted, resulting in the arrest of nine individuals—three each in Capoocan, Matag-ob, and Tabango. For PD 449 (Cockfighting), one operation was conducted, resulting in the arrest of one person in Leyte. In an operation against illegal fishing, two violators were apprehended in Tanauan, Leyte. Under Oplan Katok, two firearms were voluntarily surrendered—one in Isabel and one in Merida. Additionally, the 1st LPMFC reported the surrender of one explosive device. For violations of traffic ordinances, 57 individuals were fined: 14 in Baybay, 4 in Dulag, 4 in Mahaplag, 3 in Sta. Fe, and 2 each in Abuyog, Babatngon, Carigara, Isabel, Javier, La Paz, MacArthur, Palompon, San Isidro, San Miguel, and Tabango. There was also 1 fine each in Albuera, Bato, Burauen, Jaro, Hilongos, Mayorga, Merida, Tabontabon, Tolosa, and Villaba, Leyte. Apas lauded all troops for the successful conduct of the operation, stating, “This accomplishment is the result of our unyielding efforts and relentless campaign against all forms of criminality. I commend everyone for a job well done, and let us continue to be more aggressive in our campaigns so that we can achieve a progressive, peaceful, and drug-free Leyte Province.”

CAMP KANGLEON, PALO, LEYTE – The Police Regional Office 8 under the leadership of Brig.Gen.Reynaldo Pawid, awarded PCpl Michael S Maquilan of the Leyte Police Provincial Office, a PNP Commendation Medal for being named First Runner-Up in the Singing Cops Philippines 2024 competition, held on September 27, 2024, at the Music Museum in San Juan City, Metro Manila. Maquilan represented PRO 8 at the national level, competing against nine other contestants from various Police Regional Offices. He showcased his vocal talent with a powerful rendition of Wency Cornejo’s song “Habang May Buhay.” Before announcing the competition results, PNP Chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil stated that he would double the prizes for the winners. Consequently, Maquilan received a cash prize of P150,000 along with a trophy. Pawid extended his heartfelt congratulations to Maquilan, commending his exceptional singing talent. He emphasized that Maquilan’s victory would greatly benefit fellow officers undergoing cancer treatment. “PRO 8 celebrates the exceptional talent of Maquilan, who has brought honor and recognition to our office during the recent PNP Singing Cops competition. This demonstrates that PRO 8 personnel are not only combat-ready but also possess remarkable talents that enhance our regional headquarters’ reputation. I fully support the CPNP’s initiative to make this singing competition a platform that supports all our personnel facing life-threatening illnesses. PRO 8 will continue to support such initiatives,” he stated. Meanwhile, PRO 5 was awarded the Grand Champion title, and PRO 11 secured the Second Runner-Up title. The “Singing Cops 2024 for a Cause” initiative is a project of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in collaboration with the PNP Officers Ladies Club Foundation, Inc., aimed at providing assistance to PNP personnel facing serious illnesses like cancer.            

In a significant step towards strengthening healthcare in the Philippines, the development agencies of Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the United States signed a partnership committing P1.6 billion ($29 million) over five years to improve health outcomes and advance Universal Health Care in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), on September 27 This funding is in addition to existing forms of assistance which the three development agencies have provided and will continue to extend to BARMM. Under the Memorandum of Cooperation, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will work closely with BARMM’s Ministry of Health (BARMM-MOH), the Philippines’ Department of Health (DOH), local communities, and other key stakeholders to improve health information systems; increase public health financing; promote good public health practices; expand quality healthcare services, and improve access to essential medicines, facilities, and equipment. JICA, KOICA, and USAID have committed to share their expertise and resources to advance cross-cutting health system reforms and initiatives in the region effectively and innovatively. “Together with our partners, we aim to promote a more resilient and efficient regional healthcare system accessible to the community and the vulnerable groups within the region.  Our efforts towards a more inclusive and responsive health system reflects Japan’s long-standing commitment to human security and peace-making efforts within the BARMM,” Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya said at the signing ceremony held at the Philippine International Convention Center in Manila. “Korea’s experience rising from the ashes of war to prosperity drives our commitment to supporting peace and development, reflected in our 30 percent increase in official development assistance and a 48 percent boost in KOICA’s budget for 2024.  Through this unprecedented partnership, KOICA will play a crucial role in delivering vital maternal and child health services, strengthening health systems, and improving emergency readiness,” KOICA Vice President KIM Dong Ho said. “Through this partnership, we envision a future where mothers and their children are in the care of highly capable professionals; where TB patients receive treatment; where young adults receive culturally sensitive reproductive health services; and where families are protected from infectious diseases and pandemic threats,” U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said. JICA, KOICA, and USAID will each have a unique focus and expand their priority health programs in BARMM. JICA will advance maternal and newborn health and nutrition, strengthen community health services, promote PhilHealth enrollment facility-based deliveries, and take into account contribution to gender mainstreaming. KOICA will enhance sustainable health financing through PhilHealth, provide culturally sensitive maternal care, upgrade facilities and equipment, and boost emergency preparedness with the DOH-certified Field Epidemiology Training Program. USAID will strengthen health systems, enhance the delivery of family planning, adolescent reproductive health, and tuberculosis programs, and improve preparedness and response to emerging health threats. “This collaboration reinforces the shared journey of DOH, BARMM-MOH, USAID, JICA, and KOICA towards our vision of Universal Health Care and the sustainable development goals for health, including quality service delivery, healthcare financing, health governance, and health regulations,” DOH Secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa added. “The Memorandum of Cooperation is a call to action and a commitment to harness the collective power of our organizations to create a healthier, more equitable, and more prosperous Bangsamoro with an end in mind to build a stronger Philippines,” said BARMM Health Minister Kadil Sinolinding, Jr.  “By working together, we can amplify our collective action, enhance our efficiency, and ensure that every peso, dollar, won, and yen invested shall translate to tangible improvements in people’s health and quality of life.” In addition, the strategic partnership will more effectively provide training and support to local governments and communities so they can expand health outreach to vulnerable populations, laying the foundation for long-term stability and prosperity for the Bangsamoro. The efforts of the three agencies also support the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security. This cooperation marks the first partnership in health in the Asia Pacific region among the development agencies of the governments of Japan, Republic of Korea, and the United States.      

CAMP KANGLEON, PALO, LEYTE – Celebrating talent while championing a worthy cause, the Philippine National Police (PNP), in collaboration with the PNP Officers’ Ladies Club Foundation Inc. (OLCFI), will hold the grand finals of “Singing Cops 2024” on September 27, 2024, at 6:00 PM at the Music Museum in San Juan City. The event will feature the musical talents of law enforcers from across the country, with proceeds benefiting PNP personnel and their dependents battling cancer and other terminal illnesses, providing them with essential care and support. The income for the event will be solely generated through ticket sales, with prices set at ₱2,000, ₱1,500, and ₱1,000, depending on seating. Those interested in supporting the cause and attending the event can purchase their tickets from the Regional Community Affairs and Development Division (RCADD). Among the participants is Corporal Michael S Maquilan from the 1st Leyte Provincial Mobile Force Company, representing the Police Regional Office 8. He has emerged as one of the Top 10 finalists and will tak e the stage, demonstrating his vocal prowess in a night filled with music and goodwill. The event will also feature special performances by Charity Diva Token Lizares, Asia’s Timeless Diva Dulce, OPM icon Rannie Raymundo, and acclaimed songwriter Vehnee Saturno, showcasing the rich musical heritage of the Philippines. General Rommel Francisco D Marbil, Chief, PNP, emphasized the event’s significance, stating, “By recognizing and harnessing our strengths, we can extend meaningful help to those who need it most.” More than just a competition, Singing Cops 2024 aims to build solidarity, dedication, and hope, showcasing the PNP’s compassion. Through this event, the PNP demonstrates that behind the badges and uniforms are individuals who not only serve the public but also support each other in times of need.        

CAMP KANGLEON, PALO, LEYTE – The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) held a Blessing and Turnover Ceremony for newly issued vehicles and ordnance items at the PRO 8 Grandstand, Camp Sec. Ruperto K. Kangleon, Palo, Leyte, on September 16. The event was led by PRO 8 Regional Director, Brig.Gen.Reynaldo Pawid, alongside Mr. Rhom Armel P. Frias, Chief of Staff, Office of Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara, Department of Education. The items blessed and officially turned over during the ceremony included three units of Light Transport vehicles (Toyota Innova), four units of Personnel Carrier 4×4 (Isuzu D-Max), one unit of Patrol Jeep, 21 light motorcycles, and 150 units of Basic Assault Rifle (BAR) Galil Ace. Local government leaders present to witness the turnover were Hon. Benedicta D. Tiaozon, Municipal Mayor of San Francisco, Southern Leyte, and Hon. Benjamin E. Ver, Municipal Mayor of Jipapad, Eastern Samar. In addition, several key officials from PRO 8 were in attendance, including Col. Salvador Alacyang, Acting Deputy Regional Director f or Administration; Col. Matthew Aseo, Chief of Regional Staff; Rev. Fr. Maj. Rhey Dollesin, Regional Pastoral Officer; and various Chiefs of the Regional Staff, along with Provincial and City Directors. The newly acquired assets are expected to bolster the operational capabilities of PRO 8 in ensuring public safety and order in Eastern Visayas, further enhancing police presence and response in the region.

More than 400 athletes from 12 countries are expected to be their own hero as they rise to the challenge this weekend at Dapitan.  DAPITAN, Zamboanga del Norte – The 5150® Triathlon Dapitan and Go for Gold Sunrise Sprint will have its second staging at the historical city of Dapitan in Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. The fast triathlon course will see athletes racing a distance of 51 kilometers. The 1.5km swim starts near the Punto del Desembarco De Rizal along Sunset Blvd., then on a 40km bike course towards Dapitan City Hall and the Dipolog-Oroquieta National Road then a 10km run course to Punto del Desembarco with a beautiful scenic view of heritage houses and historic landmarks. “We are thrilled to host the triathletes and their families once again in the heritage city of Dapitan. The event not only features a challenge to be won by the athletes, but a celebration of our heritage. With these events, we hope to inspire our youth and the community for a bright future through the lessons learned in sports and positive competition,” said Dapitan City Mayor Seth “Bullet” Jalosjos. With the 5150 Triathlon, the Go for Gold Sunrise Sprint welcomes athletes – both primed and new to the sport for the shorter course. With a distance of 750m swim, 20km bike, and a 5km run, the race is set to be both competitive and friendly. Mr. Jeremy Go, Powerball Vice President for Marketing, the company behind Go for Gold Philippines, sees the importance of the short course. “We support the staging of short course triathlons because it promotes health and fitness of the community by encouraging people of all ages and fitness levels to participate which leads to a healthier lifestyle and improved overall wellness. It is also where athletes build the skills and confidence, thus the more they race, the more they gain and improve in the sport.” “Dapitan is always inviting, as it is with the tourism slogan of the city. Dapitan as a race destination is beautiful and we are honored to organize an event that showcases Filipino achievement in the home of our national hero. It gives us a sense of pride and drive to achieve and be heroes in our way,” said Princess Galura, General Manager of The IRONMAN Group Philippines. Joining the race are top Philippine athletes from the Go for Gold stable, as well as Tri SND Barracuda, Tandikan Tri Team, The Usuals, TRIAD, Trimac, Trisome and many other tri teams. Cash prizes will be presented for the following: Overall Filipino Champion 5150 1st Male – Php 65,000 5150 1st Female – Php 65,000 Sunrise Sprint 1st Male – Php 30,000 Sunrise Sprint 1st Female – Php 30,000 Lipi ni Rizal (Fastest finish times team award Top 5 members) 5150 Olympic – Php 20,000 Sunrise Sprint – Php 10,000 Fuertes Juntos (Feastest Relay in 5150) All Male – 1st – Php 10,000 All            Female          –            1st                        –             Php            10,000 Mixed (2&1) – 1st – Php 10,000 Liga ni Rizal (Most team members racing) – Php 50,000 The Noli Run will again see runners in costumes from the era of Dr. Jose Rizal’s literary characters. Along with unique inclusions and a finisher’s medal, a total of P20,000.00 prize money will be awarded to the top two (male & female) Best Costumed runners. The 5150 Dapitan is a part of the year-long 5150 and Sprint program of Sunrise Events which provides three beautiful venues, each with its own character, bundled with a short triathlon race, that is both fun and challenging, fit for any beginner of the sport. The 5150 Dapitan and Go For Gold Sunrise Sprint is supported by the local government of Dapitan City, Go for Gold for Sunrise Sprint, Active, Sante, Ion+ Advanced Electrolyte Drink, Manila Bulletin and Tempo. For more information about the 2023 5150 Triathlon in Dapitan, please visit https:// www.ironman.com/5150-dapitan-philippines or email sai.mayol@ironman.com. For more information about the Sunrise Sprint, visit https://www.goforgold.sunrisesprint.com For more information about the IRONMAN TriClub program, registering a club or affiliating with your team, visit www.ironman.com/triclubs. For more information on the IRONMAN® brand and global event series, please visit www.ironman.com.

CAMP CARLOS DELGADO, CATARMAN, Northern Samar – Following the continuous PNP operations on anti-illegal drugs and anti-carnapping, authorities intercepted drug couriers and were able to seize illegal drugs loaded in a vehicle in Allen, Northern Samar, on September 6. Based on the report, a metallic gray Toyota Avanza was driven by a 44-year-old businessman alongside two cohorts who are residents of Antipolo City and Lanao Del Sur. They traveled from Malabang, Lanao Del Sur, to Tubod, Iligan City, where they picked up the illegal drugs and were bound for Baclaran, Manila. The vehicle was flagged down in a checkpoint by the Northern Samar Provincial Highway Patrol Team in Barangay Jubasan, Allen, Northern Samar for non-wearing of seatbelt. Further, the accosted driver failed to present an Official Receipt/Certificate of Registration (OR/CR) of said vehicle. Upon search, police found a pack with black packaging that resembled the drugs previously seized in the same area on August 31, 2024. With the aid of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) K-9 Unit together with Northern Samar Police Provincial Office (NSPPO), Northern Samar Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (NSPDEU), Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), 1st and 2nd Northern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (NSPMFC), Regional Drug Enforcement Unit 8 (RDEU8), PIP, Regional Intelligence Division 8 (RID8), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), 8th Military Intelligence Battalion (MIB) – Philippine Army, Philippine Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG), and in the presence of witnesses, 36 packs were further discovered loaded in the said vehicle. The 37 packs seized illegal drugs were turned over to the Provincial Forensic Unit for examination while arrested individuals were brought to Allen Municipal Police Station for proper disposition. Col. Sonnie Omengan, provincial director, pointed out that the arrested individuals will be facing charges for possessing and transporting 37 packs of illegal drugs. “We will be filing charges against the suspects for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (R.A. 9165),” Omengan stated. Omengan has ordered an in-depth investigation for the possible identification of parties involved, if there is any, and intensified checkpoint operations. “I have instructed the concerned units to prioritize the filing of cases as well as the continuous investigation and intelligence monitoring pertaining to the incident. We shall continuously strengthen our police operations in border-controlled areas since there were similar incidents and violations in previous months,” Omengan stressed.