PIA - Caraga Regional Office

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Monday, 18 May 2026

2026-05-18T16:48:56.776+08:00

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

18 May 2026, Monday, 5:00 p.m.

1. VP SARA IMPEACHMENT TRIAL:

-Marcos won't intervene in Senate impeachment trial vs VP Sara — Palace

-Senators don robes as Duterte impeach court opens

-Impeachment court to issue summons to VP Sara; Duterte given 10 calendar days to answer

-PNP braces for protests as Senate starts Sara Duterte impeachment trial

-Protesters rally outside Senate before impeachment court convenes

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, MindaNews, Mindanao Times, Philstar, Sunstar]

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/05/18/2528845/senators-don-robes-duterte-impeach-court-opens

2. SENATE SHOOTING INCIDENT:

-Palace: Senate was never under attack; Marcos disappointed over incident

-Senate receives Ombudsman suspension order vs. Aplasca, CCTV subpoena

-NBI driver linked to Senate shooting tests positive for gunpowder nitrates

-Erwin Tulfo reiterates push for Magna Carta for Media Workers after Senate shooting

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessMirror, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News, Philstar, Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2230548/palace-contradicts-cayetano-senate-was-never-under-attack

3. SENATE SHAKEUP:

-Cayetano retains Senate presidency as Zubiri, Ejercito join minority bloc

-Senators elect Jose Luis Montales as new Senate Secretary

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Rappler, Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2230649/cayetano-retains-senate-presidency-as-zubiri-ejercito-join-minority-bloc

4. OSG labels Dela Rosa a ‘fugitive from justice,’ urges high court to deny bid to block ICC arrest

[BusinessMirror, Daily Tribune, DZRH, Inquirer, Manila Times, Mindanao Times, News5PH, Philstar]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/05/18/news/dela-rosa-tagged-a-fugitive-sc-asked-to-ok-his-arrest/2345747

5. Marcos still trusts Remulla despite alleged gaffes—Palace

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/5/18/marcos-still-trusts-remulla-despite-alleged-gaffes-palace-1216

6. Marcos names Kim Robert de Leon as new Budget chief, youngest in DBM history

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar, Rappler, Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/05/18/marcos-names-kim-de-leon-new-dbm-chief-youngest-budget-secretary-in-history

7. Marcos: Government ‘not sleeping or on vacation’ amid aid push

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2230496/marcos-government-not-sleeping-or-on-vacation-amid-aid-push

8. Voter registration ends today, no extension—Comelec

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Standard, Mindanao Times, News5PH, Panay News, Philstar, Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://manilastandard.net/news/politics/314740969/voter-registration-ends-today-no-extension-comelec.html

9. NGCP puts Visayas grid under yellow alert again

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, DZBB, DZRH, Inquirer, GMA News, Malaya, News5PH, Panay News, Philstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://malaya.com.ph/business/business-news/visayas-grid-placed-under-yellow-alert-2/

10. DOH coordinates with WHO amid Ebola outbreak in Africa

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

https://tribune.net.ph/2026/05/18/doh-coordinates-with-who-amid-ebola-outbreak-in-africa

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Monday, 18 May 2026

2026-05-18T16:42:04.724+08:00

Over 6,000 Dinagat Islands residents benefit from BUCAS

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Caraga Regional Hospital-Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services (CRH- BUCAS) Center in Basilisa, Province of Dinagat Islands, recorded a total patient census of 6,780 from December 2024 to April 2026. This milestone reflects the trust and confidence of the people of Dinagat Islands in government healthcare services.

More than just a number, the census symbolized the unwavering dedication of healthcare workers in delivering accessible, compassionate, and quality medical care to every Dinagatnon. The CRH-BUCAS Center of the Department of Health (DOH) stands as a beacon of hope and service for the well-being of grassroots communities.

With steadfast commitment and public service at its core, the CRH-BUCAS Center will continue serving the people of Dinagat Islands with excellence, compassion, and genuine care for all – a fulfillment of the healthcare agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Meanwhile, held at the CRH-BUCAS Center in Dinagat Islands, hundreds of residents in the province also benefitted from the recent medical mission spearheaded by the provincial government of Dinagat Islands and the SUI Generis medical team from May 1 to 2, where doctors, nurses, other medical practitioners, and volunteers provided free services, especially on major surgeries that helped the Dinagatnons who are challenged with costly treatments.

The major surgeries included thyroid (goiter), laparoscopic cholecystectomy, laparoscopic herniorrhaphy for children and adults, hemorrhoids, colorectal and other anal surgeries, obstetrics and gynecology cases, arteriovenous (AV) fistula (creation and repair), surgery on cataract and pterygium, and surgery on cleft lip and palate. Other services provided were optometry, endoscopy, colonoscopy, electrocardiogram (ECG), ultrasound, and minor surgeries.

Dinagat Islands Governor Nilo P. Demerey Jr. expressed gratitude to the SUI Generis medical team for bringing free, quality healthcare services to the province. “Dako kaayo among kalipay ug pasalamat nga ang Dinagat Islands inyong gipili nga alagaran. Ang inyong pagdala sa inyong serbisyo diri sa probinsya naghatag usab og paglaum sa among katawhan, especially poor residents. (Thank you very much for choosing Dinagat Islands to benefit from your medical mission. The delivery of your services has also given our indigent residents a sense of hope.)

“Healthcare is one of our most important priorities, and this significant activity reminded us that we are not alone in this endeavor. We value your services, and you have our utmost respect,” Gov. Demerey said when he welcomed the members of the medical team headed by Executive Director Geraldine Faith Econg, JD. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with reports from CRH-BUCAS Center PDI and Dinagat Islands PIO)

Monday, 18 May 2026

2026-05-18T16:36:07.001+08:00

Cruise ship marks Asian maiden voyage in Siargao port call

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — SH Minerva, operated by Swan Hellenic Cruise and facilitated by Sharp Travel Service (Phils) Inc., marked a historic milestone as it made its maiden voyage to Asia, with its first port of call in the Philippines at Isla Casulian, Barangay Corregidor in the municipality of Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte.

Before it arrived in the Philippines, the vessel sailed from Indonesia as part of its ongoing Asian voyage. The vessel arrived at 9 a.m., with expedition activities from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

This inaugural Philippine call in Siargao on May 4 is part of the vessel’s expedition itinerary, to be followed by visits to other key destinations including Bohol, Cuatro Islas, and Romblon, among others—highlighting the country’s growing appeal in the global expedition cruise market.

According to the Department of Tourism (DOT) Caraga, a total of 86 international passengers explored the island through snorkeling and trekking, savoring local delicacies such as kakanins and fresh buko, enjoying vibrant cultural performances, and supporting community-based enterprises by buying souvenir items at grassroots shops in Barangay Corregidor.

Meanwhile, a ceremonial plaque exchange, held at the ship’s bridge, formally commemorated the inaugural visit. The plaque was presented to Captain Svein-Rune Stromnes by Dapa Mayor Elizabeth T. Matugas and Vice Mayor Gerry M. Abejo, together with DOT Caraga, symbolizing the historic first Philippine call.

The captain likewise presented a plaque in exchange, recognizing Isla Casulian as the vessel’s inaugural port of call in the Philippines, and subsequently hosted a brief familiarization tour of the vessel for the delegation.

On the part of the local business owner, Andy, shared his excitement and gratitude for how the voyage has helped his enterprise. “The maiden voyage of the SH Minerva provided tourism revenue to the local shops. It was also a moment of prestige for the people of Dapa, proving that the gateway to Siargao Island is ready for the global stage”.

Aligned with the tourism agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., this inaugural port of call highlights the growing interest of international expedition cruise lines in Siargao Island, opening opportunities for sustainable tourism, strengthened community-based livelihoods, and increased global visibility for the Caraga region and the country. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte)

Saturday, 16 May 2026

2026-05-16T13:18:51.931+08:00

No mother left behind: Butuan’s halfway houses strengthen maternal healthcare

By Mariesh F. Celedeña

Imagine a mother in labor being transported on horseback, enduring hours of travel on rough and tricky roads, expecting to deliver her baby safely.

For many pregnant women living in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) in Butuan City, the imaginary scene has long been a harsh reality. Access to health facilities remains a challenge, especially for mothers residing in remote ‘sitio’ or far-flung areas where transportation is either limited or nonexistent.

In an interview with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga, Doctor Teresita Helen V. Makiling, head of the City Health Department (CHD), shared that pregnant mothers nearing childbirth in far-flung communities often face difficulties reaching health facilities, putting both the mother and child at risk.

In response, the city government of Butuan, in partnership with barangay local government units (BLGUs), established halfway houses in 2024 as part of the city’s maternal health program. This has been one of the city’s best practices in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s healthcare agenda.

The halfway houses serve as temporary shelters for pregnant women who are already in the final weeks or last month of pregnancy. These facilities are for mothers awaiting delivery in remote communities and sitio barangays that are difficult to access through regular transportation.

“The barangay health workers who regularly monitor these mothers advise and strongly encourage them to temporarily stay in the halfway house so that once labor begins, they are already near a birthing facility or can easily be referred to a primary health care,” Makiling explained.

“This ensures the safety of both the mother and baby and helps prevent maternal deaths,” she added.

Beyond providing temporary shelter, the initiative offers expectant mothers peace of mind, knowing that medical assistance is within reach during one of the most critical moments of pregnancy.

Lovely Cuenca-Plaza, head of the Programs Development Section, shared that the city currently operates two halfway houses located in Barangays San Mateo and Maguinda. However, the department hopes that more barangays will replicate the initiative to extend support to more mothers in need.

In Barangay San Mateo alone, at least four pregnant mothers have benefited from the halfway house since its establishment, accessing free maternal health services.

The initiative reflects the city government’s continuing commitment to ensuring that no mother is left behind, regardless of distance or circumstance. Through accessible maternal care and community-based support, Butuan City continues to strengthen its efforts toward safer pregnancies and deliveries for healthier communities. (MFC, PIA Caraga)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Friday, 15 May 2026

2026-05-15T16:16:53.835+08:00

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

15 May 2026, Friday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Ombudsman orders 6-month suspension vs OSAA's Aplasca over Senate incident

-Remulla to Bato: Flight is an indication of guilt

-Ombudsman orders Senate to submit CCTV footage during gunfire incident

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar, Rappler, Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/987754/osaa-mao-aplasca-6-month-suspension-ombudsman-remulla-senate-bato-dela-rosa/story/

2. Persons of interest? Cayetano, Padilla, OSAA head must explain Bato 'disappearance'—NBI chief

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/5/15/cayetano-padilla-osaa-head-must-explain-bato-disappearance-nbi-chief-1307

3. Senate shooting: Probers ‘recovering’ CCTV, final report out Wednesday

-Aplasca: No CCTV footage of OSAA, Marines’ movements during Senate shooting

-Estrada said he meant to secure CCTV footage for possible probe

-Senators seek probe of shooting incident

-Senate majority backs Aplasca’s actions in Senate shooting

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, Mindanao Times, NewsWatchPlus, News5PH, Philstar, Rappler, Sunstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2229394/senate-shooting-probers-recovering-cctv-final-report-ready-by-wednesday

4. Business groups back impeach trial of VP Sara

[BusinessMirror, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, Philstar]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/05/15/business/top-business/business-groups-back-impeach-trial-of-vp-sara/2344220

5. ADB offers PH additional $1.75B to manage impact of Middle East conflict

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/economy/987738/adb-offers-ph-additional-1-75b-to-manage-impact-of-middle-east-conflict/story/

6. Ex-ICI exec Hosaka back as GCG commissioner

[BusinessMirror, BusinessWorld, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Times, Philstar]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/987747/ex-ici-exec-hosaka-back-as-gcg-commissioner/story/

7. Japan considering missile exports to the Philippines — NHK

[BusinessWorld, Daily Guardian, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/987728/japan-considering-missile-exports-to-the-philippines-nhk/story/

8. Luzon, Visayas back to red alert for third straight day; PNP heightens nationwide security amid rotational brownouts

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Guardian, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, News5PH, Philstar, Rappler, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/05/15/2528133/luzon-visayas-back-red-alert-third-straight-day

9. Supreme Court upholds automated polls, rejects bid for mandatory manual vote count; COMELEC ‘jubilant’ over junking of bid

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

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/05/15/news/supreme-court-upholds-automated-polls-rejects-bid-for-mandatory-manual-vote-count/2344615

10. Jailed Filipino journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio honored by IWMF

[ABS-CBN News, Inquirer, Rappler]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/5/15/jailed-filipino-journalist-frenchie-mae-cumpio-honored-by-iwmf-0800

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Friday, 15 May 2026

2026-05-15T16:08:28.756+08:00

Agusan Sur to benefit from DOH’s health system resilience project

By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur — The province of Agusan del Sur is among 17 provinces across the country to benefit from the Department of Health (DOH) Health System Resilience Project (HSRP), by upgrading diagnostic laboratories, constructing Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services (BUCAS) centers, and enhancing digital health systems.

Supported by the World Bank, the P27.9-billion project, which kicked off in 2025, is a five-year initiative to strengthen the Philippine healthcare system against pandemics and climate change, in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr ‘s healthcare agenda.

A memorandum of agreement (MOA) was signed at the Provincial Governor’s Office (PGO) conference room at the Provincial Government Center in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, on May 11.

Dr. Jacqueline Frances F. Momville, provincial health officer II, shared the purpose and the expected benefits of the project.

“The HSRP aims to improve and ensure access to a climate-resilient provincial health system, which is very much aligned with our mission for health as a province — a quality and resilient healthcare system with healthy, empowered, and happy AgSurnons,” said Dr. Momville.

A MOA was signed by Governor Santiago B. Cane Jr. and Vice Governor Patricia Anne B. Plaza, representing the PGAS, together with Dr. Sadaila K. Raki-in, officer-in-charge (OIC) – regional director of the Department of Health (DOH) Center for Health Development – Caraga.

“We are lucky that Agusan del Sur is included, and this is a manifestation that our partnership and collaboration are truly rooted in our commitment to improve, uplift, and empower AgSur,” said Dr. Raki-in.

“Being selected as one of the 17 provinces means we are among those who completed the requirements that justified the implementation of the program in Agusan del Sur,” said Gov. Cane.

“Health programs have been one of the priorities in the province of Agusan del Sur ever since. This will never be neglected because we always believe that a healthy community starts with healthy people within the community,” he added.

The implementation of the HSRP is expected to strengthen the province’s healthcare delivery system, improve access to quality medical services, and enhance the preparedness of health facilities for future health emergencies and climate-related challenges for the benefit of all AgSurnons. (KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur, with the report from PTV Agusan del Sur)

Friday, 15 May 2026

2026-05-15T16:03:49.799+08:00

PhilHealth strengthens healthcare advocacy in Surigao City through ‘Yakap Gamot’ Fun Run

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — More than 1,000 runners, health advocates, and residents filled the streets of Surigao City on May 10, for PhilHealth’s ‘Yakap Gamot Fun Run.’

Serving as the second leg, last Sunday’s run was a vibrant celebration of community awareness, wellness, and a reaffirmed commitment to accessible healthcare for all.

The event kicked off at dawn on Surigao City Boulevard, featuring 6K, and 12K categories. More than just a race, the ‘Yakap Gamot’, which means embrace medicine, was designed to raise awareness of PhilHealth’s Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) and Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT), ensuring that every Surigaonon feels the hug of social health insurance.

PhilHealth Caraga Regional Vice President Michael Jibson C. Hernandez expressed gratitude to all participants. “Actually, our target was only 1,200 runners, but over 1,300 joined. The turnout and support from the Surigaonons here for our Yakap Gamot Fun Run have been incredibly overwhelming.”

He said the PhilHealth advocacy program does not end with the fun run, but rather a platform to inform the public that the health state insurer has programs such as YAKAP and GAMOT under the Bagong Pilipinas initiative where every Filipino can now avail of free consultation at YAKAP clinics and health facilities, especially rural health centers strategically located in the communities across the country, and the free medicines at the accredited GAMOT pharmacies.

“We promote a healthy lifestyle, primarily through walking, running, and various types of exercise. We saw that running is inclusive; both the young and the elderly can participate because you can simply walk if you can no longer run. Furthermore, we encourage every Filipino to exercise to avoid hypertension and diabetes, which are the top illnesses among Filipinos,” Hernandez added as he highlighted the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

“So let us take advantage of this program with our families, so we can monitor our health status. I encourage all Surigaonons to spread the word about the ‘Yakap Gamot’ program – a service from PhilHealth that is free, more accessible, expanded, and faster. So, join us and be ’embraced’ by PhilHealth’s free medicines and free check-ups,” he told the run attendees.

The event was also supported by the city government of Surigao and various local medical providers, showcasing a unified front in the expanding awareness of the government’s Universal Health Care (UHC), as strongly mandated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

“The energy we saw today is a testament to the Surigaonon spirit,” said the PhilHealth LHIO Surigao Head Sheila M. Lisondra during the closing ceremony. “By participating in this fun run, our members are not just running for their own fitness; they are running toward a future where no Filipino is left behind when it comes to medical needs.”

Lisondra emphasizes that the Yakap Gamot theme manifested the shift from hospital-centric care to preventive care, encouraging citizens to use their benefits for consultations before illnesses become severe. This also bridges the gap between government services and the grassroots communities.. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte)

Friday, 15 May 2026

2026-05-15T15:58:36.607+08:00

Integrated gov’t efforts strengthen Surigao Sur’s anti-drug campaign

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

CANTILAN, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s peace and order agenda, government authorities continue to intensify the fight against illegal drugs in the province of Surigao del Sur through a whole-of-government approach.

According to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga, a joint buy-bust operation was recently conducted that led to the arrest of two people in Barangay Linintian, here.

The PDEA-Surigao del Sur, in coordination with the Caraga Regional Intelligence Division and the Philippine National Police Cantilan Municipal Police Station, carried out the operation, demonstrating stronger inter-agency collaboration in addressing illegal drug activities at the local level.

The report stated that the authorities confiscated approximately P150,000 worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride or ‘shabu,’ along with buy-bust money and a mobile phone. The suspects are now in police custody and will face charges for violations of Sections 5 and 11 of Article II of Republic Act No. 9165.

Section 5 penalizes the sale, distribution, and transport of illegal drugs, while Section 11 covers unlawful possession, with penalties depending on the quantity seized.

PDEA Caraga Director Laurefel P. Gabales commended the operating units for their seamless coordination and commitment to duty.

“This successful operation reflects the strength of our collaboration with partner law enforcement agencies. Through unity and shared responsibility, we continue to make significant strides in our fight against illegal drugs,” Dir. Gabales said.

He also called on the public to actively support the government’s anti-drug campaign by reporting suspicious activities and cooperating with authorities.

The operation forms part of the broader national strategy to ensure safer communities, reinforcing the government’s commitment to public safety through intensified law enforcement actions and sustained partnerships with stakeholders.

PDEA Caraga assured that it will continue to strengthen coordination with partner agencies to suppress illegal drug activities and support the national government’s goal of achieving drug-cleared communities across the region. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)

Friday, 15 May 2026

2026-05-15T15:54:16.584+08:00

Agusan Norte strengthens fight against hypertension, diabetes under WHO-backed program

By Nora L. Molde

Representatives from the World Health Organization, Department of Health Caraga, and the Agusan del Norte Provincial Health Office conduct the monitoring and field visits in various municipalities in Agusan del Norte for the program on “Proteksyon Para sa Altapresyon” to strengthen prevention, early detection, and management of hypertension and diabetes in the province. (Photo courtesy of PHO Agusan del Norte)

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The province of Agusan del Norte intensified its campaign against hypertension and diabetes through a four-day monitoring and field visit for the “Proteksyon Para sa Altapresyon” program, reinforcing local health initiatives and supporting the national health priorities of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. under the Universal Health Care (UHC) agenda.

A key benefit of the program is its focus on early detection, prevention of complications, and timely management of hypertension and diabetes, which significantly reduce hospital admissions, prevent premature deaths, and improve the long-term quality of life of at-risk populations.

According to Provincial Health Officer Odelio Ferrer, the initiative plays a crucial role in reducing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in the province.

“This initiative will further strengthen our preventive and promotive health programs, particularly in ensuring early detection, proper management, and continuous monitoring of patients with hypertension and diabetes. Through stronger collaboration and community participation, we can protect our people from complications caused by diseases,” Ferrer said.

The program was implemented in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) through the WHO representative, Doctor Rey Arturo Fernandez, and the Department of Health–Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga, led by regional program coordinator Romelyn Esther Torralba-Santos.

Agusan del Norte was selected as a pilot implementation site due to the high number of residents at risk of hypertension and diabetes. The initiative aims to strengthen local health systems through improved risk assessment, early screening, intensified health education, and timely intervention – key strategies in reducing complications and deaths associated with NCDs.

Beyond improved health outcomes, the program also enhances the capacity of local health systems by strengthening technical competencies, improving coordination among health workers, and promoting evidence-based decision-making at the municipal level.

Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante underscored the importance of aligning local efforts with national health priorities to ensure more responsive and inclusive healthcare services.

“The provincial government remains committed to supporting programs that promote healthier communities and improve access to quality healthcare services. By working closely with our partners and local stakeholders, we continue to build a stronger and more responsive health system for every Agusanon,” Gov. Amante said.

The four-day monitoring covered the municipalities of Carmen, Buenavista, Nasipit, Jabonga, Kitcharao, Santiago, Tubay, Magallanes, Remedios T. Romualdez, Las Nieves, and Cabadbaran City.

The activity reflects the sustained commitment of the Agusan del Norte Provincial Health Office, DOH-CHD Caraga, local government units, and partner agencies in advancing preventive healthcare and supporting the national government’s goal of building healthier and more resilient Filipino communities. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Thursday, 14 May 2026

2026-05-14T17:14:48.943+08:00

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

14 May 2026, Thursday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Cayetano confirms dela Rosa no longer in Senate

-No record of foreign travel for Bato, BI says amid rumors of escape

-Gatchalian to Senate: Explain reports of dela Rosa’s escape

-Senator Hontiveros slams Senate chaos, ‘bad faith actors’

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2228852/cayetano-confirms-dela-rosa-no-longer-in-senate

2. ‘Staged to manufacture chaos?’: Probe into motive sought over Senate shooting

-NBI, PNP to investigate if Senate shooting was 'staged'

-AFP chief Brawner: OSAA fired shots during Senate incident, not Marines

-Palace: Senate sergeant-at-arms fired first, NBI 'volunteer' fired back

-Matibag: Driver nabbed in Senate shooting was a volunteer, not an 'official' NBI employee

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Guardian, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar, Rappler, Sunstar]

https://interaksyon.philstar.com/politics-issues/2026/05/14/313417/staged-manufacture-chaos-probe-motive-sought-senate-shooting/

3. Imee asks Marcos to suspend Matibag, NBI officials over alleged 'Senate siege'

[Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Sunstar]

https://www.newswatchplus.ph/2026/05/14/imee-calls-for-relief-of-matibag-nbi-officials-after-senate-shooting-incident/

4. DICT warns vs. online posts inciting violence after Senate chaos

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, News5PH, Manila Bulletin, Mindanao Times, Rappler, Sunstar]

https://tribune.net.ph/2026/05/14/dict-warns-vs-online-posts-inciting-violence-after-senate-chaos

5. Senate to convene as impeachment court on May 18, says Cayetano

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Mindanao Times, Manila Standard, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar, Sunstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2228776/senate-to-convene-as-impeachment-court-on-may-18-says-cayetano

6. VP Duterte blames Marcos administration for growing political unrest

[Daily Tribune, GMA News, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/05/14/duterte-blames-marcos-administration-for-growing-political-unrest

7. Cayetano says minority senators trying to stage ‘counter-coup’

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, News5PH, Inquirer, Manila Times, Philstar]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/05/14/news/cayetano-says-minority-senators-trying-to-stage-counter-coup/2343616

8. NGCP places Luzon, Visayas grids under red, yellow alerts

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, Rappler, Sunstar]

https://www.rappler.com/business/luzon-visayas-grids-under-red-yellow-alert-may-14-2026/