CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar – The police arrested the so-called No.9 Regional Top Most Wanted Person with a case of robbery with homicide in Purok 4, Sitio Tigbe, Barangay Capoocan, Calbayog City, Samar, on September 1. In the report of Col. Antonietto Eric Mendoza, provincial director of the Samar Police Provincial Office to Brig. Gen. Reynaldo Pawid, regional director of Police Regional 8, identified the arrested suspect as alias “Tom”, 30, a construction worker residing in Barangay Talahiban, Oquendo District, Calbayog City, Samar. According to Mendoza, the arrest of the suspect was successfully carried out by the joint units of the Provincial Intelligence Unit/Drug Enforcement Unit, Calbayog City Police Station, Regional Intelligence Unit 8, 1st Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company, Special Action Force Intelligence Operation Section – Field. Intelligence and Investigation Division (PNP SAF IOS FIID), 804th Maneuvering Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 8 and the 125th Special Action Company and 12th Special Action Battalion, Special Action Force. The operatives identified the accused as He was apprehended based on a warrant for robbery with homicide, issued by the court on May 12, 2021, with no bail recommended. Alias “Tom” is listed as Rank No. 9 Most Wanted Person in the Regional Level. During the operation, the accused was informed of his constitutional rights under the Miranda doctrine, as well as his rights under RA 9745, known as the Anti-Torture Law in a language he understood. He is now under the custody of the Calbayog CPS before being turned over to the court of origin. Mendoza commends all involved PNP personnel for the successful arrest of region 8’s most wanted person. “Let this accomplishment inspire us all to maintain our high standards of service and remain steadfast in our mission to protect and serve the people of Samar,” he emphasized.      

A total of 3,800 individuals in South Cotabato benefited from the latest visit of Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano’s Bayanihan Caravan to the province. Coordinated with former Lunas Party-list Representative Carol Lopez, the sibling senators’ offices traveled to Koronadal City, Banga, and Surallah 2024 to provide aid to solo parents, senior citizens, youth, women, farmers, fisherfolk, and persons with disabilities. The assistance, distributed through the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, is designed to address various emergency needs, including food, medicine, and school supplies. “Maraming maraming salamat po sa lahat ng mga biyayang pinabigay ninyo dito sa amin. Sana po ay hindi kayo magsawang magbigay dito sa amin ng mga suporta,” Surallah Mayor Pedro “Cano” Matinong Jr. said, addressing the Cayetanos.

PARANAS, Samar – A member of the Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) voluntarily surrendered to 2nd Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company Headquarters in Barangay Pabanog, Paranas, Samar, on August 20, 2024. The surrender was facilitated by the joint elements of the 2nd Samar PMFC led by PSSg Marvin Avelino, under the supervision of Lt.Col.Alex Dang-aeon, in coordination with the Regional Intelligence Unit 8 (RIU8) and the 802nd Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 8. Alias “Jaime,” a 55-year-old farmer residing in Barangay Pagsang-an, Paranas, Samar and a member of Parag-uma, Sub-Regional Committee Browser. He is now under the protective custody of 2nd SPMFC where he received cash assistance and grocery items and has undergone custodial debriefing to facilitate his possible enrolment in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). Dang-aoen said, the successful surrender underscores the commitment of local communities to support government efforts in achieving lasting peace and order. “This action is part of ongoing efforts under Executive Order No. 70 to End Local Communist Armed Conflict. The individual chose to align himself with the government’s peace initiatives under Executive Order No. 70 (NTF-ELCAC), which is a significant step towards reintegration into civilian life and the opportunity to clear his derogatory records,” he stated.

The Police Regional Office 8, under the leadership of PBGEN REYNALDO H PAWID, Regional Director presents the significant accomplishment on Anti-Illegal Drugs Operation from August 5-11, 2024. PRO 8 conducted 17 operations that led to the arrest of 20 drug suspects, the filing of 22 complaints, and the seizure of 9.0089 kilograms of shabu with a total Standard Drug Price (SDP) of P61,260,545.84. #SaBagongPilipinasAngGustongPulisLigtasKa #ToServeandProtect

Davao City – NUSTAR Resort recently hosted an exclusive media gathering in Davao City to give them a closer look at its exceptional offerings and share the latest updates from the first and only premier integrated resort in Cebu. The event highlighted the resort’s luxurious shopping destination featuring global luxury brands in The Mall, advanced online gaming experiences, and a wide array of food and beverage selections. “We take pride in being a world-class destination for entertainment and leisure and are committed to contribu ting to the country’s tourism drive by offering unique experiences at our property,” said Katrina Mae de Jesus, AVP for Business Development and Resort Marketing. During its press presentation, NUSTAR Resort showcased an array of new offerings and promotions that span hotel stays, shopping, and dining experiences. Through its NUSTAR Rewards program, guests can seamlessly earn and redeem points across various services, enhancing their experience by consolidating rewards into a single, user-friendly platform. NUSTAR Resort also participated in PEP Talks, a bimonthly press forum organized by the Department of Tourism Xl and SM Lanang. This involvement provided an opportunity for NUSTAR to establish its brand to the local press and emphasize its commitment in helping boost tourism by being an exceptional entertainment and luxury destination.

CAMP KANGLEON, Palo, Leyte — A joint police operation led by the Calbayog City Police Station escalated into a fatal shootout while serving a warrant of arrest against a wanted murder suspect at Purok 2, Barangay Victory, Calbayog City, Samar, on August 11, Based on the reports, the accused was identified as alias “Danny,” a 50-year-old member of the Managaysay Potential Private Armed Groups (PPAGs), was targeted in the operation due to a murder warrant issued by the court on November 23, 2016, with no bail recommended. As police attempted to serve the warrant, attempted to evade arrest and engaged in a confrontation with the police. In response, the police acted to secure the situation, resulting in the suspect sustaining fatal injuries. He was rushed to Calbayog District Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Following the encounter, the Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) and the Calbayog City Satellite Forensic Unit (CCFU) processed the site, recovering a caliber .45 pistol loaded with four live ammunition, and four cartridge cases. The suspect was also found in possession of cash and personal items, which were documented for further investigation. The operation was the result of joint efforts involving several law enforcement agencies, including the Provincial Intelligence Team Samar – Regional Intelligence Unit (PIT Samar-RIU) 8; PNP Intelligence Group – Internal and Special Operations Division (IG-ISOD); 123SAC, 12SAB, Special Action Force; and the Regional Intelligence Division (RID) 8 Tracker Team. PRO 8 Director BrigGen.Reynaldo Pawid, emphasized that the collaboration of various police units highlights their strong dedication to upholding the law and protecting the community. He stated, “By working together to carry out court orders and arrest individuals with outstanding warrants, we demonstrate our commitment to upholding justice and safeguarding public safety. This ongoing effort is crucial in reinforcing the rule of law and fostering a secure environment for all.”    

CEBU CITY – An exclusive celebration of top-tier wine and culinary excellence took place at Huangdi, NUSTAR Resort Cebu, on August 3, 2024. Special guests enjoyed a bespoke menu crafted by Chef Martin Rebolledo, Executive Chef at NUSTAR Resort. This meticulously designed food selection was intended to harmoniously complement the outstanding wines of Billecart-Salmon and Château Malherbe, offering a truly elevated culinary experience with remarkable dishes. With the help of the upscale Manila-based wine shop CORK, the event featured Mr. Sebastien Papin, Champagne Billecart-Salmon’s Asia Pacific Director, who helped guests foster a deeper appreciation for wine. “Billecart-Salmon has been around for more than 200 years and is still owned and operated by the original family. We pay special attention to where our wines are found and consumed. NUSTAR is the best place in Cebu to have Billecart-Salmon,” Papin said as he introduced the brand to the attendees. The event began with the refined Billecart Brut Reserve, which perfectly complemented a dish of abalone served with porcini and morel craqueline, enhanced by a delicate white truffle mascarpone. The tasting continued with the crisp and elegant Billecart Brut Nature, accompanied by a sophisticated mille feuille of shrimps and caviar. Guests were then treated to the Billecart 2016 Vintage, paired with a refreshing scallop ceviche featuring calamansi citrus, dried scallops, and coriander dust. One of the highlights of the evening was the robust Château Malherbe Rouge 2021, Côtes de Provence, served alongside a delectable sumac-crusted lamb loin, herbed flaky put blanket, charred cauliflower florets, and black truffles. The event concluded on a sweet note with the Billecart Brut Rosé, paired with a tantalizing black sesame, pecan, and apple tart tatin, and homemade Tahitian vanilla ice cream. “Having hosted a plethora of champagne dinners in the region, I can safely say that NUSTAR put together an amazing event that will set the bar very high in Cebu. The setup was great, the service was on point, and the quality of each dish matched with our champagnes excellently,” Papin added. Billecart-Salmon, founded in 1818, is a prestigious champagne house renowned for its exceptional quality and elegant wines. Located in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, France, this family-owned house is celebrated for its meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to tradition. Known for its traditional methods and dedication to excellence, Billecart-Salmon continues to be a symbol of luxury and sophistication in the world of champagne. True to its positioning, NUSTAR aims to bring first-to-market initiatives to the Visayas market through partnerships with F&B industry icons.

DAVAO, PH – As athletes get ready for the IRONMAN 70.3 happening in Davao City on August 11, 2024, Sun Life Philippines is joining the action through initiatives that bring its health advocacy to the fore. To help Davaoeño racers prepare for the highly anticipated event, Sun Life held a health forum entitled “Gearing up for the Long Run: Nutrition Basics for Extended Physical Activities” with Alma Cosico as the featured speaker. A registered nutritionist-dietician, Ms. Cosico gave practical tips on how to develop healthy eating habits that will help achieve optimum performance during a race. The event was mounted in collaboration with Lifestyle Medical MNL, a premier healthcare services provider. Sun Life and Lifestyle Medical MNL recently inked a tie-up to help empower Filipinos to prioritize their health and well-being through a holistic approach that combines financial security and high-quality healthcare. Sun Life is likewise supporting a Davao-based triathlon team racing in IRONMAN 70.3. The relay team is comprised of local businessmen, including Christopher Henry Lopez, owner of Casi Marketing Corporation, who will take on the swim leg; Nestor Madula Jr., a fitness trainer and coach from Ateneo de Davao University, who will handle bike duties; and Eugene Jerome Go, an engineer and businessman, who is the designated runner. Aside from the race sponsorship, each tri-team member also received Sun Life’s Life Armor, a one-year life insurance plan that covers one against accidents and illnesses. “At Sun Life, our commitment to helping Filipinos live healthier lives extends beyond providing life insurance; it’s about supporting initiatives that foster wellness,” said Mylene Almonte, Sun Life Philippines Cluster Head for Mindanao. “We’re proud to support the Sun Life Davao Tri- Team whose passion aligns with our mission. We wish them success in the race and hope they inspire more Davaoeños to live an active lifestyle.”

CAMP KANGLEON, PALO, LEYTE – The Police Regional Office 8, under the leadership of Brig.Gen.Reynaldo Pawid, is actively participating in the 21st Leg of the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF), being held in Tacloban City from August 2-3, 2023. The significant event simultaneously conducted at Leyte Normal University, the Leyte Sports Development Center, and the Tacloban City Astrodome is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees seeking various government services and features Hon. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Speaker of the House of Representatives, as the Guest of Honor. “We are deeply committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone attending the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair,” stated Pawid. “Our team is working tirelessly to provide high-quality services and maintain order throughout this significant event. We aim to create a secure and efficient environment so all attendees can fully benefit from the services offered.” The Serbisyo Fair is hosting approximately 230 VIPs and guests, including members of the House of Representatives, Cabinet Secretaries, and representatives from various government organizations. Accordingly, PRO 8 is offering a range of essential services during the fair, including the issuance of License to Own and Possess Firearms (LTOPF) and firearms registration, medical and dental services, neuro-psychiatric tests, free issuance of National Police Clearance (NPC), and free notarization of documents. These services are designed to streamline processes and provide accessible assistance to the citizens of Eastern Visayas. In addition to service provision, PRO 8, in coordination with relevant government units, is implementing comprehensive security operations to ensure the safety of all VIPs and participants. Over 2,000 security personnel from the PNP and other law enforcement agencies have been deployed to maintain order and security. The security measures include deploying personnel at the Leyte Sports Development Center and all engagement areas, traffic management, route safety in collaboration with the local traffic management unit, and crowd control management. Simultaneous checkpoint operations are strategically conducted from 5:00 AM on July 31, 2024, to 5:00 PM on August 3, 2024. Additionally, area and perimeter security, including covert security operations and the establishment of Police Assistance Desks (PADs) at all places of engagement, are in effect to ensure a safe environment for all attendees. To further enhance security and ensure public safety, all PNP offices and units in the region have been placed on Heightened Alert Status from 9 PM on July 31, 2024, until midnight on August 3, 2024. Additionally, the Bagong Pilipinas Pagkakaisa Concert featuring various artists will take place in RTR Plaza at 5:00 PM on August 2, 2024, Friday. “As Tacloban City welcomes this major event, the collaboration of all participating agencies highlights our shared goal of fostering a more effective and responsive government for the people of Eastern Visayas,” RD PAWID said.