More in Metro/Provincial

Oriental Mindoro Governor Commends Teams for Successful 75th Founding Anniversary Celebration
Oriental Mindoro Governor Humerlito "Bonz" Dolor has publicly conveyed his sincere appreciation to the numerous departments and individuals who contributed to the success of the province’s 75th founding anniversary celebration. "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone behind the successful commemoration of the province’s 75th year," Governor Dolor said. He specifically acknowledged the efforts of the Provincial Tourism Office, led by Dhon Calda, and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, headed by Vincent Gahol, for their crucial roles in organizing and ensuring safety during the event. The Governor also expressed his thanks to the Provincial Health Office under Dra. Cielo Ante for their vigilance and prompt medical support throughout the celebration. Additionally, he commended the Provincial General Services Office, led by Atty. Jean Phebie de Mesa, for maintaining cleanliness and providing assistance from start to finish. Acknowledgment was also given to the Provincial Engineering Office, the Provincial Information Office, and the Management Information Systems Office for their respective contributions. Governor Dolor extended his appreciation to the Governor’s Office, with Chief Nette Dalupan at the helm, for their unwavering support and dedication. He also recognized the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire, CSD, tanod PSD, and other security units for maintaining peace and safety during the festivities. "To all those responsible for the various activities, a sincere and profound thank you. Your hard work and dedication are truly invaluable," Governor Dolor concluded.
Metro/Provincial
|2 min read

Mandaue City Councilor Urges Strict Enforcement of Storm Ordinance to Promote Rainwater Harvesting
Mandaue City Councilor Joel Seno has emphasized the need for strict and effective enforcement of the city\'s existing Storm Ordinance, which encourages residential and commercial properties to implement rainwater harvesting techniques. \"An ordinance is already in place; what is needed now is its proper and stringent application,\" Seno stated. While acknowledging that flooding cannot be completely prevented through this measure alone, Seno highlighted that every household\'s participation can contribute significantly to reducing its impact. He described rainwater harvesting as a quick and cost-effective solution that can help minimize water-related flooding problems. \"Consider if around 80,000 households each have just two barrels to collect rainwater. Instead of water draining onto the streets, it stays within the property and can be used for purposes such as flushing toilets or watering plants,\" he explained. The ordinance, enacted in 2023, includes penalties for violations of building codes. However, the requirements regarding rainwater collection are currently encouraged but not mandatory. Councilor Seno noted that some residents have already begun adopting rainwater harvesting practices, which bodes well for wider compliance. \"These are straightforward initiatives that are easy to implement, require no additional cost for the city, and promote a culture of responsibility among the community. Every resident, regardless of their property size, can contribute,\" he added. The Office of the Building Official and the Mandaue City Engineering Office are tasked with monitoring compliance, especially among applicants for building permits. Seno clarified that the initiative extends beyond new constructions. Existing homes and commercial buildings are also urged to participate in rainwater harvesting efforts. \"The goal is simple: instead of allowing rainwater to flow into the streets, collect it for practical household use,\" he concluded. He called on all residents to support this effort to help mitigate flooding in the city.
Metro/Provincial
|2 min read

Sorsogon City Mayor Ester Hamor Celebrates National Reading Month with Community
Sorsogon City Mayor Ester Hamor actively took part in the observance of National Reading Month, sharing moments of joy with children and enthusiasts alike. Reflecting on the occasion, Hamor expressed, \"What a joy to spend the day with kids and kids at heart as we celebrate National Reading Month.\" She extended her appreciation to the key organizations behind the event, stating, \"Thank you to the Reading Association of the Philippines and the Philippine Board of Books for Young People for leading this meaningful celebration.\" Furthermore, Mayor Hamor acknowledged the significant contributions of individuals who played crucial roles in organizing the activities. \"A special thank-you as well to Twinkle Caro Sicat, Philippine Board on Books for Young People Representative, and Charo Dichoso, our Local Youth Development Officer, whose commitment and hard work helped bring this event to life and made it even more enriching for the children,\" she noted. Emphasizing the enduring impact of reading, Hamor concluded, \"Truly, reading opens doors to a future filled with hope.\"
Metro/Provincial
|1 min read

Tarlac City Officials Conduct Thorough Cleanup at RUA Wet Market
The Tarlac City government, under the leadership of Mayor Susan Yap, recently undertook a comprehensive cleaning operation at the Romeo U. Aquino (RUA) Wet Market. This initiative, conducted on Thursday, November 20, was aimed at preserving the hygiene and safety standards of the market to benefit both vendors and consumers. A city government statement emphasized that the operation was "carried out for the welfare of all buyers and sellers, ensuring that the RUA Market remains a clean and pleasant place for the residents of Tarlac." The cleanup involved coordinated efforts from multiple government bodies, including the Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, City Environment and Natural Resources office, as well as the RUA market management. Highlighting the significance of this activity, the city government remarked, "These measures demonstrate the continuous commitment of the City Government and its partner agencies to maintain the cleanliness and orderliness of public marketplaces."
Metro/Provincial
|1 min read

Bohol Governor Greets International Delegates at Floral Festival
Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado extended a warm welcome to international participants of the Bohol International Floral Festival held at the BE Grand International Convention Centre in Panglao. The guests represented a diverse group, coming from countries including South Korea, Estonia, Germany, Taiwan, Macau, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the Netherlands, Finland, Poland, Hong Kong, Japan, Vietnam, and others. "We welcomed our guests from various countries such as South Korea, Estonia, Germany, Taiwan, Cotai, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Netherlands, Finland, Poland, Hong Kong, Seoul, Japan, Macau, Vietnam, and others to our office," Governor Aumentado stated. The festival attracted prominent fashion designers both locally and internationally, who are participating in the event’s activities. Governor Aumentado emphasized the positive impressions made on the visitors regarding Bohol's renowned tourist destinations. "We are pleased to receive such encouraging feedback about our tourism industry. Our guests were notably impressed by the natural beauty of our tourist spots and the dedicated efforts to preserve and maintain them," he added.
Metro/Provincial
|1 min read

Palawan Governor Launches YAKAP Program to Deliver Comprehensive Services Across Nine Barangays
Palawan Governor Amy Roa Alvarez has initiated the Yugto, Alaga, Kalinga, Aruga ng Pamahalaan (YAKAP) Program across nine barangays in the municipality of Sofronio Española, extending essential services to more than 13,000 residents. The barangays served include Panitian, Punang, Iraray, Pulot Interior, Pulot Center, Pulot Shore, Abo-Abo, Isumbo, and Labog. Governor Alvarez emphasized her commitment to continuing the YAKAP Program, which she first introduced during her tenure as mayor, aiming for province-wide implementation. She encouraged constituents to fully utilize the services provided, stating, \"I started the YAKAP Program when I was still mayor, and now I want to expand it throughout Palawan to all barangays. I will bring these services directly to you, so please take advantage of them.\" She also highlighted ongoing efforts to support the province's healthcare facilities, particularly the 16 hospitals, assuring residents that her promises would be fulfilled with time: \"Beyond the medical and dental missions, I am addressing the needs of our hospitals. Just give me a little time to deliver on my promises. Thank you, and let us appreciate the government services available.\" The program encompasses a wide range of services, including medical and dental care, on-site rabies vaccinations, orientation for the Palawan Government Scholarship Program (PGP), distribution of vegetable seeds, registration assistance for Civil Society Organizations, and legal services facilitated by the Provincial Legal Office. Multiple government and community partners collaborated in the initiative, such as the Palawan Provincial Mobile Force Company, Philippine Marines, Amy Action Center, JCA for Progress Movement, Municipal Civil Registrar Office, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, Community Affairs Division, Livelihood Project Management Unit, Public Employment Services Office, Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC), and the Municipal Police Station.
Metro/Provincial
|2 min read

Norzagaray Mayor Commends 25 Seniors for Completing EDUKalEDAD Program
Mayor Maria Elena Germar of Norzagaray, Bulacan, extended heartfelt congratulations to 25 senior citizens who successfully completed the EDUKalEDAD educational program. The initiative involved training and academic activities designed to empower the elderly participants. "We sincerely congratulate these 25 senior learners," Mayor Germar expressed. She also conveyed her appreciation to Norzagaray College, particularly the Community Extension Services team under the leadership of Dr. Liberty Pascual, for their invaluable support. "I also want to extend my gratitude to them for their compassion and dedication in providing meaningful opportunities to our senior citizens," Germar added. The mayor encouraged more elderly residents to engage in lifelong learning initiatives, emphasizing the importance of continuous education among seniors. "Long live our lifelong learners, and may more seniors be inspired to join this program," she concluded.
Metro/Provincial
|1 min read

Bacolod City Police Report Peaceful Conclusion of Major Sunday Events
The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) has reported that two prominent events held this past Sunday—the Trillion Peso March and the Jesus Reigns Celebration—ended without any untoward incidents in areas under their supervision. Attendees from various civil society organizations, universities, and advocacy groups assembled at Bacolod Public Plaza for the Trillion Peso March, while participants of the Jesus Reigns parade remained at The Upper East. To ensure security, personnel from the Civil Disturbance Management, Reactionary Standby Support Force, and other BCPO units were placed on full alert and actively deployed across event venues. The BCPO attributed the peaceful outcome to the vigilance, readiness, and collaborative efforts of their personnel, who successfully upheld peace and order throughout the day. In a formal statement, BCPO City Director Police Colonel Joeresty Coronica extended his appreciation to all event participants, attendees, and organizers. He praised their discipline and cooperation, emphasizing that these qualities were vital to maintaining the orderly and incident-free nature of both the political and religious assemblies.
Metro/Provincial
|1 min read

Atty. Michael Manotoc Celebrates Eight Years of Marriage with Heartfelt Tribute to Wife Cara Manglapus Manotoc
Atty. Michael Manotoc recently took to Instagram to commemorate eight years of marriage with his wife, Cara Manglapus Manotoc, sharing a touching message that resonated with followers. In his post, he reflected on the "empire of joyful, hilarious, and unforgettable memories" they have created as a family. He affectionately referred to Cara as their "super hero," humorously admitting that he initially thought she was merely "hot." In response, Cara Manglapus Manotoc expressed her appreciation by posting a collection of candid, posed, travel, adventure, and food-related photos chronicling their life together. She described their union as "the perfect mix of Saturday night and the rest of your life." The couple's friends and relatives quickly flooded the comment section with warm congratulations and heartfelt wishes, celebrating their enduring bond and shared happiness.
Metro/Provincial
|1 min read

Governor Baricuatro to Perform at Sinulog 2026, Invites Danao City as Guest Contingent
Governor Pamela Baricuatro has officially confirmed that she will take part as a dancer in the Sinulog 2026 festival. Following customary practice, the Province of Cebu traditionally sends a contingent to the event. However, due to a series of recent calamities, Governor Baricuatro has requested the City of Danao to join as the guest contingent this year. This invitation was welcomed by Danao City Mayor Ramonito Durano, who agreed to the governor’s appeal. In observance of the longstanding customs and traditions of Cebu province, Governor Baricuatro also announced her intention to personally perform in the festival. This participation serves as a gesture of gratitude and a prayerful response to the calamities experienced in Cebu. As usual, the provincial government will select a theme to guide their dance presentation during the festival. The Sinulog festival derives its name from the Cebuano word "Sulog," which translates to "like water current movement" in English. This is reflected in the forward-and-backward dance steps that have become a ritualistic expression of devotion to the Santo Niño. Historically, the first Sinulog celebration took place in 1980 when several student groups in Cebu performed during the feast of the Santo Niño. Today, the Sinulog festival is recognized as the mother of all festivals in Cebu, celebrated annually on the third Sunday of January.
Metro/Provincial
|2 min read