PIA - Caraga Regional Office

Friday, August 7, 2026

2026-08-07T13:48:51.519+08:00

1,334 Tagbina farmers receive government aid under Presidential Assistance Program

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TAGBINA, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — A total of 1,334 farmers in the municipality of Tagbina received financial assistance under the Presidential Assistance to Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF) during a distribution activity at the municipal gymnasium.

Held from July 13 to 14, the activity was implemented by the Department of Agriculture (DA) in partnership with the local government of Tagbina led by Mayor Glaiza Jane Polizon-Lanete, and the Municipal Agriculture Office. The assistance forms part of the national government’s continuing efforts to strengthen the agricultural sector, enhance food security, and build the resilience of farming communities.

Under the program, each beneficiary received ₱2,325 to help address immediate farming needs and sustain agricultural production amid rising production costs and other challenges confronting the sector.

The PAFF is one of the government’s interventions aimed at providing immediate relief to farmers and fisherfolk affected by economic and agricultural disruptions. By extending direct assistance, the program seeks to boost farm productivity, sustain rural livelihoods, and contribute to the country’s food security agenda.

For farmer Danilo Dahang of Barangay Magsaysay, the assistance, though modest, provides much-needed support for his family’s daily needs and farming activities.

“Nakatabang na sa akong pamilya, bisan sa ginagmay lang nga kantidad,” Dahang shared in a phone patch interview.

(It has helped my family, even if the amount is modest.)

Dahang cultivates one hectare of corn on his own land and another hectare of cassava on land entrusted to him through a prenda (pawn) arrangement. Like many small-scale farmers, he said increasing production costs continue to pose a major challenge.

“Lisod jud ang farming karon tungod sa kamahal sa mga inputs sama sa abono. Sa maisan lang, kinahanglan og walo ka sako nga fertilizer, ug ang usa ka sako hapit na moabot og ₱2,000,” he said.

(Farming is really difficult nowadays because of the high cost of farm inputs such as fertilizer. For my corn farm alone, I need eight sacks of fertilizer, and each sack now costs almost ₱2,000.)

While expressing gratitude for the government’s assistance, Dahang also appealed for agricultural support, particularly fertilizer distribution, to be synchronized with the farmers’ planting calendar to maximize its impact.

“Maayo unta nga ang mga programa sa gobyerno, labi na ang fertilizer assistance, matunong sa panahon sa pagpangtanom aron mas magamit dayon sa mga mag-uuma,” he added.

(I hope government assistance programs, especially fertilizer distribution, are provided in time for the planting season so farmers can use them when they need them most.)

In Barangay Magsaysay, about 17 farmers, including Dahang, benefited from the PAFF assistance.

Mayor Polizon-Lanete thanked the Department of Agriculture for its continued support to Tagbina’s agricultural sector, reaffirming the local government’s commitment to improving the welfare of farmers and fisherfolk through collaborative initiatives with national government agencies.

The distribution of assistance underscored President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to empowering farmers through timely interventions that help increase agricultural productivity, strengthen rural livelihoods, and advance the country’s goal of achieving food security and a more resilient agricultural sector. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)

Friday, August 7, 2026

2026-08-07T13:44:55.690+08:00

NCIP, DOJ-PPA partnership expands culturally responsive rehabilitation services for IP communities

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — More indigenous peoples (IP) in Caraga, including persons under the parole and probation system, are expected to benefit from culturally appropriate rehabilitation services and stronger protection of their rights following the country’s first-ever partnership between the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and the Department of Justice–Parole and Probation Administration (DOJ-PPA).

The collaboration will ensure that IPs receiving community-based rehabilitation interventions receive services that recognize their culture, traditions, and ancestral domain rights while promoting their successful reintegration into society. It will also strengthen the capability of justice sector personnel through cultural sensitivity and human rights training.

In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen inclusive governance, uphold human rights, and ensure equitable access to government services, NCIP Caraga and DOJ-PPA Caraga formalized the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed during the Kapihan sa PIA hosted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga on July 16 at SM City Butuan.

The MOU was signed by NCIP Caraga Director Ordonio P. Rocero Jr. and DOJ-PPA Caraga Regional Officer-in-Charge Lovella Casas Libertad and supports the administration’s whole-of-government approach to building a more inclusive and people-centered justice system while strengthening the implementation of Republic Act No. 8371, or the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997.

Libertad described the agreement as the first of its kind in the country.

“This Memorandum of Understanding is the first of its kind in the country. It reflects our commitment to ensure that indigenous peoples under the parole and probation system are accorded the respect, recognition, and protection guaranteed under the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act. Through this partnership, we are bringing government services closer to our Indigenous communities while promoting cultural understanding among justice sector personnel,” she said.

Rocero welcomed the initiative, saying the partnership provides an opportunity for NCIP to expand its services beyond Indigenous communities.

“We support the undertaking of the DOJ-PPA because this is another venue where we can extend our services not only to IP but also to persons restored to liberty,” Rocero said.

Under the agreement, NCIP and DOJ-PPA will integrate cultural sensitivity orientation, human rights education, and IPRA awareness into rehabilitation programs for probationers and parolees, as well as personnel development activities across Caraga. The partnership also ensures that rehabilitation interventions recognize and respect the customs, traditions, and cultural identity of the IP.

NCIP Caraga will conduct cultural sensitivity training, information and education campaigns, advocacy activities, and educational sessions for DOJ-PPA personnel and clients to deepen awareness and appreciation of IP rights.

Libertad said the collaboration could strengthen rehabilitation programs by providing culturally responsive, rights-based interventions for Indigenous Peoples under community corrections, contributing to a more inclusive and responsive justice system in the region.

The pioneering agreement reinforces mandates of both agencies to promote restorative justice while safeguarding the rights and dignity of the indigenous peoples, advancing the government’s commitment to inclusive public service and sustainable community development. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

Friday, August 7, 2026

2026-08-07T13:41:50.091+08:00

Livelihood grants empower 17 people’s associations in Buenavista, Agusan Norte

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — More families in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte are expected to enjoy improved incomes and more sustainable sources of livelihood after 17 people’s associations received a total of P4.1 million in livelihood grants from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU).

Released through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), the assistance will enable beneficiaries to expand existing livelihood enterprises, create employment opportunities, and strengthen community-based organizations, contributing to poverty reduction and inclusive local economic growth.

The initiative supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen poverty reduction programs by expanding sustainable livelihood opportunities, empowering communities to become self-reliant, and advancing inclusive and lasting peace in conflict-affected and vulnerable communities.

The grants were distributed during a ceremonial check turnover on July 21 at the Mayor’s Conference Room in Buenavista.

Seven qualified PAMANA Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations each received P300,000, or P2.1 million total. These are the Simbalan Mabungahon Agri-Farmers PAMANA Livelihood Program Association, Afga Farmers PAMANA Livelihood Program Association, Barug Sangay Farmers PLPA, Guinabsan Neighborhood PLPA, Macalang Makugihon PLPA, New Life Masigasig Farmers PLPA, and the United Agusanon Agricultural Workers for Peace and Development PLPA.

Meanwhile, 10 qualified DSWD Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations each received P200,000, for a total of P2 million. The beneficiaries are Mabungahon Alubihid SLPA, United Alubihid SLPA, Sitio Antipolo Farmers SLPA, Uswag Sataki SLPA, Angat Dalao-an SLPA, Seaborn SLPA, Buena Macalang Farmers SLPA, Barangay Talo-ao Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (TODA) SLPA, Malapong Mauswagon SLPA, and Mauswagon Talo-ao SLPA.

Buenavista Mayor Joselito T. Roble thanked the DSWD and OPAPRU for their continued partnership in improving the lives of Buenavista residents through sustainable livelihood initiatives.

“We are grateful to DSWD and OPAPRU for their continued support to the municipality of Buenavista. Let us use these grants wisely by investing them in sustainable livelihood projects. Let’s teach our community how to work, not to beg,” Roble said.

He added that the local government remains committed to implementing programs that empower residents, strengthen community enterprises, and promote long-term economic sustainability.

For beneficiary associations, the livelihood assistance has already translated into tangible economic gains.

Genelito G. Sabanal, president of the Barangay Talo-ao Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association Sustainable Livelihood Program Association (SLPA), shared that the grants have enabled their association to expand its operations and improve members’ earnings.

“In 2024, our association received a P450,000 livelihood grant that enabled us to purchase four motorcycles. As of 2026, we have expanded our fleet to seven motorcycles. With the additional grant we received today, we plan to purchase two more motorcycle units to increase our income and strengthen our operations,” Sabanal said.

He said the expansion will provide more livelihood opportunities for members while allowing the association to deliver better transport services to the community.

Jovenly D. Escobilla, representative of the United Agusanon Agricultural Workers for Peace and Development PAMANA Livelihood Program Association, said the assistance will help improve the quality of life of members and provide better opportunities for their families while strengthening people’s organizations.

The Sustainable Livelihood Program is one of the government’s flagship poverty reduction initiatives that equips organized groups with financial capital and capability-building support to establish and expand sustainable community enterprises, helping improve household incomes while advancing inclusive development and lasting peace. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

Friday, August 7, 2026

2026-08-07T13:36:35.366+08:00

LGU General Luna, Siargao expands community health network with Balay Kalinga halfway house launch

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — Demonstrating its persistent commitment to inclusive and compassionate governance, the local government unit (LGU) of General Luna, in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, inaugurated a health facility called “Balay Kalinga” halfway house.

The Balay Kalinga, or house of care facility, is strategically designed to bridge the geographic and financial gaps vulnerable residents face when seeking medical attention. It provides cost-free, temporary, and safe accommodation for individuals requiring multi-day medical care or outpatient follow-ups, expectant mothers awaiting childbirth who require proximity to health facilities, and individuals travelling from distant or island barangays needing temporary shelter before or after hospital visitation.

General Luna Mayor Johnson Y. Sajulga expressed his sincere appreciation to the Department of Health (DOH) for its instrumental role in realizing this initiative. He said the partnership with DOH reinforced the collective mission to strengthen grassroots healthcare infrastructure and guarantee equitable access to quality health services.

“This institutional investment reflects General Luna’s broader agenda to champion human dignity, health equity, and resilient social safety nets for all citizens.” Mayor Sajulga said as the LGU fulfills and supports the healthcare agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Meanwhile, as a resident of Barangay Tawin-tawin, Nanay Aleng said, “The opening and blessing of our new Bahay Kalinga health facility on July 21 is more than the inauguration of a structure, as it is the fulfillment of a long-standing promise that compassionate, accessible, and high-quality medical care is now within our reach.”

“For years, accessing timely primary healthcare, maternal support, and emergency services required long journeys and difficult sacrifices. With the opening of Bahay Kalinga, our community gains a true sanctuary—a home dedicated to healing, prevention, and human dignity, she said.

LGU officials, department heads, personnel, and key community stakeholders attended the blessing and dedication of the Balay Kalinga halfway house. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from LGU-General Luna)

Friday, August 7, 2026

2026-08-07T13:24:25.284+08:00

BION: Accurate information about West PH Sea reaches over 100 info officers in Dinagat Islands

By Renelle L. Escuadro

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands (PIA) — Over 100 public information officers from the municipalities and barangays in Dinagat Islands listened attentively to the discussion on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) spearheaded by the National Intelligence and Coordinating Agency (NICA) Caraga during the Dinagat Islands Provincial Information Officers Conference on July 23.

NICA Caraga Regional Director Bonifacio R. Pulgo said, “We want to develop and capacitate all of you, being the first-hand and on-the-ground source of reliable information to become government communication multipliers as truth tellers of the WPS and, of course, peace influencers in your community because we believe that there’s no other fitting person to do that but you IOs.”

“We are here to tell the truth that WPS is an essential part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and this is supported by the July 2016 arbitral ruling of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).,” Dir. Pulgo added, “This is a landmark victory of the country. Therefore, WPS is ours.”

He told the participants about the ongoing inter-agency convergence and initiative of the government as directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen strategic efforts and collaboration on intelligence, investigation, and prosecution to safeguard maritime and territorial defense in the entire country, including the Caraga region, against foreign interference and malign influence.

He explained to the IOs why the support for WPS is a call to action for every Filipino, including Dinagatnons, even if residing far from the WPS or the disputed territory.

“Let us remember that WPS is more than a sovereignty issue. It is part of our seas, our rights and our future,” he said.

Meanwhile, NICA Caraga has partnered with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to strengthen the country’s sovereignty and ensure that communities are free from illegal and undesirable aliens.

Mindanao Deputy Chief for Administration and Operations Melody Penelope B. Gonzales of the BI welcomed the opportunity to reach out to the municipal and information officers in the province.

“BI’s successful recent crackdown of overstaying, undocumented, and undesirable foreigners in the island of Siargao was due to the information that we received from the locals and communities,” Gonzales said, emphasizing the significant role of information in peace and order and national security.

She added that BI is indeed grateful for the invitation to participate in the engagement, especially with the topography of Dinagat Islands being the nearest to Siargao Island and the province’s influx of foreign tourists.

She told the IOs, “We have not received any information from IOs in Dinagat Islands. However, after this activity, we are hoping that as IOs you need to be mindful and vigilant if there are unusual presence and activities in your communities and report them promptly to proper authorities.”

The Dinagat Islands Provincial Information Officers Conference served as a pilot inter-agency collaborative engagement spearheaded by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) – Dinagat Islands Government Information Center, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) under the leadership of Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno, and the provincial government of Dinagat Islands led by Governor Nilo P. Demerey Jr. through its Provincial Information Office headed by Attorney Niel Edward M. Demerey.

The conference with the theme, ‘Building A Better Mindanao By Strengthening Public Information and IO Empowerment,’ was held at the Provincial Guest Center, Barangay Cuarinta, San Jose, of this province. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with a report from Dinagat Islands PIO)

Friday, August 7, 2026

2026-08-07T13:07:43.251+08:00

BION: PIA partners with MinDA, PLGU to strengthen Dinagat Islands’ public info network

By PIA Dinagat Islands

SAN JOSE, Dinagat Islands (PIA) — The Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Dinagat Islands Government Information Center (GIC) spearheaded the convergence of over 100 municipal and barangay information officers across the province as a tangible accomplishment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda on strengthening government communication as a cornerstone of transparent, accountable, and people-centered governance.

Through a significant, collaborative partnership with the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the provincial government, through its Provincial Information Office (PIO).

On July 23, the provincial government unit (PLGU) conducted its first-ever information officers’ conference at the Provincial Guest Center, Barangay Cuarinta, San Jose town with the theme: “Building A Better Mindanao By Strengthening Public Information and IO Empowerment.”

“Every meaningful development begins with a story that people understand, trust, and choose to be part of,” MinDA Secretary Leo Tereso Magno said in a video message. He stressed that effective public communication is essential, noting that development moves faster when institutions communicate with a united message.

Sec. Magno added that in line with President Marcos’ vision of an informed and empowered citizenry, MinDA continues to strengthen the Regional Information Network Forum, fostering closer collaboration among government communicators across Mindanao.

“Through this initiative, President Marcos’ development agenda is reinforced at the grassroots by equipping information officers with the knowledge, skills, and tools to effectively communicate government programs, counter misinformation and disinformation, and encourage greater public participation in nation-building.”

Dinagat Islands Governor Nilo Demerey Jr., chairperson of the Caraga Regional Development Council, emphasized that effective communication is essential to good governance, especially amid the growing challenge of misinformation and disinformation.

“Information is not simply a message to be released. It is a bridge between policies and the people they are meant to serve,” Gov. Demerey said, describing information officers as the storytellers of public service who connect government action with the daily realities of citizens.

Jurie S. Mancia, municipal information officer of San Jose, expressed gratitude for making the IO engagement possible in the province. “

Thank you, MinDA, PIA, and PIO sa pag-organize aning pinakaunang Provincial Information Officers Conference. Salamat usab sa mga BIOs nga nisuporta sa maong event.”

“Ang IOs sa lungsod sa San Jose nagkahiusa, nahibalo ug kanunay andam moserbisyo (The IOs in the municipality of San Jose are united, aware and remain ready to serve the public),” he said.

Meanwhile, PIA Caraga Assistant Regional Head Renelle Escuadro, also the Dinagat Islands GIC coordinator, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to empowering government communicators, saying, “No information officer—near or far—should be left behind,” as she emphasized PIA’s mandate to bring accurate, timely, and relevant government information to communities.

The conference featured discussions on public information, tourism and development, health, national security, and the West Philippine Sea, equipping local information officers with timely, accurate, and relevant information to combat misinformation and strengthen grassroots communication. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with reports from MinDA and Dinagat Islands PIO)

Friday, August 7, 2026

2026-08-07T12:47:37.555+08:00

Butuan official attests: PhilHealth’s ‘No Balance Billing’ program is for real

By Niña Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Barangay Kagawad Louie G. Giberson of Bayanihan, Butuan City, has attested to the effectiveness of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation’s (PhilHealth) No Balance Billing (NBB) program after availing of the benefit for his medical treatment outside the Caraga region.

In February 2026, Giberson underwent a Computed Tomography (CT) scan, which revealed a mass in his prostate. Determined to seek immediate therapy, he and his family consulted PhilHealth to verify if the NBB program could cover the procedure.

PhilHealth personnel confirmed that the therapy was included under NBB and could be availed in accredited hospitals nationwide. For Mindanao, four hospitals were accredited for the treatment. Giberson’s family chose a facility in General Santos City, a 12-hour trip from Butuan.

For 31 days, Giberson underwent therapy sessions lasting 9–10 minutes each. Daily billing statements reflected charges of around P11,700 per session, excluding other hospital fees. By the end of his treatment, his total bill reached P580,000. Under the NBB program, however, Giberson was not required to pay any amount.

“In my experience, I can really attest that the no balance billing is true. I thank the national government under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for this initiative. Can you imagine a Caraganon like me going to another region and a stranger, but still being able to avail of such benefits? This just goes to show that PhilHealth’s no balance billing applies to everyone, regardless of where you are from,” Giberson said.

PhilHealth’s No Balance Billing (NBB) program aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of accessible and affordable healthcare for all Filipinos, ensuring that members can avail of medical services in accredited hospitals nationwide without incurring out-of-pocket expenses, regardless of which region the patient came from. (NJGD, PIA Caraga)

Friday, August 7, 2026

2026-08-07T12:42:46.179+08:00

Bislig 4Ps beneficiary graduates magna cum laude, inspires learners to pursue their dreams

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — What once helped Rona Mae A. Domogoy buy notebooks, school uniforms, and a pair of shoes eventually became one of the foundations of her greatest achievement.

Raised in a humble family in Barangay Burboanan, Bislig City, Rona Mae grew up as a beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), a government initiative supporting low-income families by investing in the health and education of their children.

Like many young beneficiaries, she looked forward to every payout, not because it meant extra money to spend, but because it was another chance to stay in school.

“I availed of the 4Ps program from elementary until I turned 18 years old,” Rona Mae shared in a phone patch interview with PIA. “The assistance helped me continue my studies. My four siblings and I were all beneficiaries of the program.”

After aging out of the program, she pursued higher education at Northeastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU)-Bislig Campus, where she took up a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English.

In June 2026, Rona Mae graduated magna cum laude, proving that determination, combined with family support and government assistance, can open doors to opportunities that once seemed beyond reach.

Looking back, she admitted that as a child she did not fully understand her parents’ financial burden. It was only later that she realized how the government’s educational support eased their struggles and allowed her to keep chasing her dreams.

“My story is proof that when families are given opportunities and children are supported in their education, dreams become attainable,” she said.

She encouraged fellow 4Ps beneficiaries not to lose hope despite the challenges they face.

“I hope my journey serves as an inspiration to every 4Ps beneficiary who may still be struggling today,” she said.

Rona Mae emphasized that poverty should never define a person’s future. Despite the hardships and limitations brought about by financial challenges, she encouraged fellow beneficiaries to persevere in pursuing their education and dreams.

“Continue showing up, continue learning, and continue believing in yourself. One day, you, too, will look back and realize that the very assistance that once helped you buy your school supplies became part of the foundation of your success,” she added.

Rona Mae’s story demonstrates that while government assistance may begin with helping families meet their basic educational needs, its true value lies in creating opportunities that empower children to break the cycle of poverty.

Her journey stands as a testament to the President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. administration’s continuing commitment to inclusive human development under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda, where every Filipino child, regardless of circumstance, is allowed to learn, succeed, and build a better future. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)

Friday, August 7, 2026

2026-08-07T12:38:11.287+08:00

DOLE strengthens livelihood of Sohoton boat operators with P5.9-M fiberglass vessels

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) turned over ₱5.9 million worth of fiberglass boats to 74 tourist boat operators in Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande Island, Socorro, Surigao del Norte.

This crucial upgrade provided safer, more efficient, and sustainable transport services, boosting local incomes while strengthening the island’s thriving ecotourism industry.

Boat operators served the key destinations of Sohoton Cove’s renowned lagoons, limestone formations, caves, and the world-famous stingless jellyfish sanctuary in Bucas Grande Island.

This initiative is part of DOLE’s continuing livelihood program under the leadership of Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino to build sustainable income opportunities and support local industries that drive economic growth and for national- building.

The new fiberglass boats will replace the traditional plywood vessels historically used by operators in Sohoton Cove. For his part, Tatay Islao said “Dako gyud ang among pasalamat sa atong President pinaagi sa DOLE sa paghatag kanamo niining bag-o ug de-kalidad nga fiberglass boat. Lahi ra gyud ang kalig-on niini kon itandi sa naandan namong kahoy nga baroto. Mas luwas na kami sa lawod mas makadaginot kami krudo, ug mas masiguro namo ang panginabuhi para sa among mga pamilya. Kining maong tabang dili lang kay pang-karon, kondili giya sa mas hayag nga ugma alang kanamong mga mangingisda.”

Key features of fibreglass boats include being highly durable and able to withstand prolonged seawater exposure, minimal maintenance, significantly extended service life, and enhanced safety and highly reliable transport for tourists.

The assistance was formally turned over by DOLE – Surigao del Norte Provincial Head May C. Velonta and Dapa Satellite Office Head Luzvifeno Miguel A. Cab and was received by the Municipal Mayor Riza Rafonselle T. Timcang and Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager Dante Dizon.

Meanwhile, the turnover ceremony also celebrated the graduation of 395 community-based trainees under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s (TESDA) TRAIN LOKAL program.

Among the graduates were beneficiaries of DOLE’s program on TUPAD (Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers), marking another significant accomplishment of the agency in strengthening the employment and livelihood sector of society as mandated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

This joint milestone highlighted the government’s integrated approach to community development—seamlessly blending emergency employment, skills training, and long-term livelihood support to build economic resilience in tourism-dependent communities. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Thursday, 23 July 2026

2026-07-23T16:24:07.243+08:00

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

23 July 2026, Thursday, 5:00 p.m.

1. PBBM’s 5TH SONA PREPARATION:

-Marcos personally writing SONA; Palace hints at 'earthshaking announcements'

-Quezon City suspends classes on Monday for Marcos SONA

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, News5PH, Philstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2269090/palace-hints-at-earthshaking-announcements-in-marcos-sona-speech

2. WPS: Marcos wants to ‘reset’ PH-China ties after Ayungin incident

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Philstar]

https://www.inquirer.net/481930/wps-marcos-wants-to-reset-ph-china-ties-after-ayungin-incident/

3. China water cannons PCG-BFAR vessel at Panatag Shoal

[ABS-CBN News, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Standard, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Rappler]

https://manilastandard.net/news/314769244/china-water-cannons-pcg-bfar-vessel-at-panatag-shoal.html

4. Marcos honors Navy personnel wounded in Ayungin incident, assures AFP of government's full support

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, News5PH]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/23/marcos-honors-navy-personnel-wounded-in-ayungin-incident-assures-afp-of-governments-full-support

5. Senate ‘cannot afford’ Sara Duterte’s request for catering – Gatchalian

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Standard, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2269143/senate-cannot-afford-sara-dutertes-request-for-catering-gatchalian

6. PH, Sweden to discuss defense cooperation; Gripen fighter jet among possible areas of interest

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, News5PH]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/7/23/ph-sweden-to-discuss-defense-cooperation-1313

7. Marcos still trusts AFP despite persons of interest reportedly in Sara Duterte's security detail — Palace

[GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/995867/marcos-sara-duterte-impeachment-trial-persons-of-interest/story/

8. Kiyapo picks up speed, wind signal no. 1 now up in 13 provinces

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Panay News, Philstar, Rappler]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/weather-traffic/2026/7/23/kiyapo-picks-up-speed-wind-signal-no-1-now-up-in-13-provinces-1157

9. Manibela strike hits 2nd day, eyes extension

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Manila Bulletin, Mindanao Times]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/23/manibela-strike-hits-2nd-day-eyes-extension

10. Part of Angat dam dries up as water level falls below critical mark

[DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2268935/angat-dams-water-level-dips-further-below-critical-mark-pagasa