PIA - Caraga Regional Office

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Thursday, 16 July 2026

2026-07-16T17:37:09.991+08:00

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

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

1. Marcos OKs P2,000 cash aid for low-income Filipinos as Middle East tensions flare anew

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar, Rappler] https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/7/16/marcos-oks-p2-000-cash-aid-for-some-filipinos-amid-new-middle-east-tensions-1036

2. VP DUTERTE IMPEACHMENT TRIAL:

-Palace urges truth, not 'drama' as impeachment trial shifts to confidential funds

-Prosecution drops sheriff punched by Sara Duterte, 5 more witnesses in impeachment trial

-Impeachment court defers ruling on VP Duterte records subpoena to July 20

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

3.Palace, NBI reject claim SEA Games probe meant to intimidate senator-judges

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Manila Bulletin, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus] https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/16/palace-rejects-claim-sea-games-probe-meant-to-intimidate-senator-judges

4. Lacson after Marcoleta’s PGH exam: ‘It’s a miracle!’

[ABS-CBN News, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, News5PH, Philstar] https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2264735/lacson-after-marcoletas-pgh-exam-its-a-miracle

5. ‘Gising na’: Angel Locsin challenges ‘communist’ Robin Padilla on red-tagging, China stances

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

https://www.newswatchplus.ph/2026/07/16/gising-na-angel-locsin-challenges-communist-robin-padilla-on-red-tagging-china-stances

6. MMDA: Gabriel Go only barred from clearing ops after teacher-shaming complaint

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

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2026/07/16/2542559/mmda-gabriel-go-only-barred-clearing-ops-after-teacher-shaming-complaint

7. LTFRB mulls fare hike implementation as oil prices pick up anew

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, News5PH, Philstar]

https://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/read/ltfrb-mulls-fare-hike-implementation-as-oil-prices-pick-up-anew

8. BARMM election period, gun ban begin for September 14 polls

[ABS-CBN News, DZRH, Inquirer, Manila Times, News5PH, Rappler]

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/mindanao/election-period-gun-ban-barmm-begin-july-16-2026/

9. Japan Coast Guard training ship arrives in Manila for 4-day visit

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/7/16/japan-coast-guard-training-ship-arrives-in-manila-for-4-day-visit-1417

10. 3 nabbed over killing of American marine biologist

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, DZBB, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Standard, News5PH, Philstar]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/regionaltv/news/114818/3-suspects-in-killing-of-american-marine-biologist-now-in-police-custody/story/

Thursday, 16 July 2026

2026-07-16T17:21:19.197+08:00

Father thanked government for son’s zero hospital bill

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Joey Chris S. Cortejos stepped out of the Butuan City Medical Center’s (BMC) financial assistance office with great relief as his son’s hospital bill was covered by PhilHealth’s No Balance Billing (NBB) program.

Cortejos, during an interview with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga on July 14, shared that his son was admitted to a hospital in Butuan City due to a motorcycle accident. He was anxious about the money to pay for the P60,000 hospital bill.

“Nagpasalamat jud ko sa gobyerno pinaagi sa PhilHealth, hilabi na sa city government sa Butuan ug sa BMC kay maski piso wala koy mabayaran sa pagka-ospital sa akong anak. Makagawas mi sa ospital nga walay bayad sa among dako nga bill tungod sa programa nga No Balance Billing,” he said

(I want to thank the government, especially the city government of Butuan and BMC, because I did not have to pay even a single centavo for the hospital bill of my son. We can leave the hospital worry-free from our large bill because of the No Balance Billing program.)

“With No Balance Billing, there is no need for me to borrow money because my son can go home without paying for the medical services and expenses, including medicines and doctor’s fees,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ermelita A. Rojo, PhilHealth customer assistance, relations and empowerment staff (P-CARES), explained the state insurer’s program on NBB. “Through PhilHealth Circular No. 2017-006, stakeholders are requested to ensure the implementation of No Balance Billing, strengthening the universal health care agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.”

“The No Balance Billing mandates that no other fees or expenses shall be charged or be paid for by the indigent patients above and beyond the package rates during their confinement period,” Rojo said.

“However, the program is conveniently available in hospitals run by the Department of Health (DOH) and local government units such as BMC in Butuan City, while requirements have to be met and complied with if a qualified patient is admitted to private healthcare facilities,” she added.

She also emphasized that the program, aside from indigent, also covers sponsored or whose member is being paid by another individual, government agency or private entity; domestic worker or ‘kasambahay;’ senior citizens; and individuals categorized as lifetime or a member who has reached the age of retirement under the law and has paid at least 120 monthly premium contributions.

Rojo further said that health care institutions are instructed to give NBB patients preferential access to their social welfare funds or other sources for financing, such as the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and the Medical Assistance Program, which may be used to augment the benefit package, provided in case of insufficiency to cover all facility charges. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands)

Thursday, 16 July 2026

2026-07-16T17:14:38.357+08:00

PhilHealth’s No Balance Billing gives Butuan mother financial relief

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — A Butuan City mother of three no longer had to worry about paying hospital bills after the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation’s (PhilHealth) No Balance Billing (NBB) policy covered the hospitalization expenses of her three-year-old child, allowing her family to focus on the child’s recovery instead of financial concerns.

For Ranelyn Daisy Malazarte, her child’s health was her top priority, but expensive hospital bills added to the anxiety brought by her child’s illness.

Through PhilHealth’s No Balance Billing policy, Malazarte was able to avail of hospital services without paying a single peso, enabling her family to use their limited resources for food, medicines, transportation, and other daily needs while caring for their child.

“Ang pinakamahalaga sa akin ay ang kaligtasan ng aking anak. Malaking ginhawa po na wala kaming binayarang kahit isang piso sa ospital dahil sa PhilHealth No Balance Billing. Ang perang sana ay pambayad namin ay nagamit na lamang namin sa pagkain at iba pang pangangailangan ng aking anak habang siya ay nagpapagaling,” Malazarte said.

(The most important thing for me is my child’s safety. It was a huge relief that we did not have to pay a single peso for the hospital expenses because of PhilHealth’s No Balance Billing policy. The money that we would have spent on hospital bills was instead used for food and other necessities while my child was recovering.)

The experience, she said, gave her family peace of mind during a difficult time and demonstrated how government health programs can protect Filipino families from unexpected medical expenses.

The No Balance Billing policy supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s policy to strengthen the country’s healthcare system by ensuring that more Filipinos have access to affordable, quality, and equitable health services under the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act.

Under the policy, qualified PhilHealth members admitted to ward or basic accommodation in accredited government hospitals are not charged beyond their PhilHealth benefits for covered healthcare services. The benefit covers hospital room and board, professional fees, laboratory and diagnostic examinations, operating room services, and medicines available in the hospital pharmacy, provided these are included in the applicable PhilHealth benefit package.

By eliminating additional hospital charges for eligible patients, the program helps ease the financial burden on low-income families, prevents catastrophic health expenditures, and allows households to use their resources for other essential needs during medical emergencies.

PhilHealth encourages members to maintain updated membership records and coordinate with accredited healthcare facilities to ensure the smooth availment of benefits under the No Balance Billing policy, reaffirming the government’s commitment to making quality healthcare more accessible to every Filipino. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

Thursday, 16 July 2026

2026-07-16T17:08:48.024+08:00

Agusan Norte champions healthy living, environmental protection during Nutrition Month celebration

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Proper nutrition remains fundamental to achieving healthier families, improving productivity, and building resilient communities, prompting the provincial government of Agusan del Norte to intensify efforts in promoting healthy eating, active lifestyles, and environmental stewardship during the kickoff of the 52nd Nutrition Month celebration on Monday.

Through the Agusan del Norte Provincial Nutrition Council (PNC), the province launched the month-long observance anchored on the theme “Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan,” bringing together members of the Provincial Nutrition Council, provincial government employees, and partner stakeholders in a collective effort to improve nutrition outcomes while protecting the environment that sustains food production.

The celebration supports the implementation of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) 2023–2028 and advances President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s agenda on food security, preventive healthcare, and climate resilience by encouraging healthy diets, active lifestyles, and sustainable food production. In Agusan del Norte, these priorities are reinforced through the continued support of Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante, who champions programs that promote the health, well-being, and food security of every Agusanon.

Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office Chief and Provincial Nutrition Action Officer, Dr. Silver Joy Tejano, emphasized that good nutrition begins with safeguarding the environment, which provides families with sustainable sources of safe and nutritious food.

“Protecting our environment means protecting our food sources. When we care for our natural resources, we help ensure that families have access to safe and nutritious food. Being healthy also means being happy. I also encourage every Agusanon to plant vegetables in their own backyards. Even a small backyard garden can provide fresh, nutritious food for the family, help reduce household food expenses, and contribute to a healthier environment,” Tejano said.

Tejano encouraged families to make backyard vegetable gardens, healthy eating, and responsible environmental practices part of their daily routine, emphasizing that these simple actions can strengthen household food security, improve nutrition, and help build healthier and more resilient communities.

To further promote healthy lifestyles, Provincial Nutrition Coordinator Emelyn Flor L. Fabiaña led the launch of the Move More, Step More Challenge, a wellness initiative for the employees of the provincial government of Agusan del Norte.

“The Move More, Step More Challenge encourages our employees to make physical activity part of their daily routine. Nutrition is not only about eating healthy food but also about staying active. Through this initiative, we hope to inspire healthier habits that will improve the well-being and productivity of our workforce,” Fabiaña said.

The challenge is open to all provincial government of Agusan del Norte employees. Registration runs from July 13 to 17, while the official competition will be held from July 18 to October 16. Participants will compete based on the total distance they walk or run, measured through the Pacer tracker application, with only app-recorded distances considered valid.

The province’s Nutrition Month celebration demonstrates how national and local efforts can work together to improve nutrition, strengthen household food security, promote active living, and protect the environment. By encouraging healthy eating, backyard vegetable gardening, regular physical activity, and responsible environmental stewardship, Agusan del Norte continues to help build healthier, more productive, and climate-resilient communities. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

Thursday, 16 July 2026

2026-07-16T17:04:07.983+08:00

DepEd Cabadbaran fights student malnutrition through school-based feeding program

By Niña Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Malnutrition remains a pressing concern among Filipino children, particularly in food-poor communities. To address this, the Department of Education (DepEd) has consistently implemented the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) nationwide, aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive.

In Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, the program has become a cornerstone intervention to ensure learners receive proper nutrition essential for their physical, mental, and psychological well-being.

This year, the SBFP reached 3,840 beneficiaries across the schools division, covering all Kindergarten and Grade 1 pupils, as well as “wasted” learners from Grades 2 to 6. The program’s focus on those most vulnerable underscores its mission: to provide nutritional intervention where it is needed most.

Every day, teachers and school personnel prepare hot meals for the children. The aroma of freshly cooked food fills classrooms and feeding areas, signaling not only nourishment but care. Each meal is designed to be balanced and healthy, tailored to meet the nutritional needs of growing learners. But the program goes beyond food—it teaches habits. Teachers guide students on proper handwashing before meals, protecting them from contaminants, and teaching them the importance of nutrition. Parents, too, are encouraged to adopt healthier diets, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond the school gates.

For Schools Division Superintendent Imelda N. Sabornido, the shift from pre-packed food products to hot meals marks a turning point. “This meaningful shift aims to ensure that learners receive meals that are not only nutritious but also freshly prepared, balanced, and responsive to their daily needs. It likewise supports improved school participation and promotes healthy eating behaviors among learners,” she explained.

At Comagascas Integrated School, Principal Jiecyll S. Butal has seen firsthand the difference the program makes. “Good nutrition fuels the brain. Children who eat healthy foods can focus better, become more active, and be healthier. While it may not solve malnutrition completely, it makes a big difference in reducing hunger and improving students’ learning,” she shared.

Parents echo these sentiments. Daisy Contillo, mother of a Grade 1 student, said the SBFP has helped her child embrace healthier eating habits. “The SBFP has been a big help for us parents in convincing our children to eat healthy foods, especially vegetables and fruits. The schools make sure that the students eat a balanced meal based on their nutritional needs,” she noted.

The program’s impact is evident not only in improved health but also in better school attendance and participation. Children who once struggled with hunger now come to class energized, ready to learn. Families who once worried about providing nutritious meals now find relief in the support their schools offer.

DepEd’s SBFP portrays how education and nutrition intersect. By addressing malnutrition, the Department is not only feeding bodies but also fueling minds, laying the foundation for healthier, more engaged learners. It is a testament to the power of collaboration—among teachers, parents, and the community—in ensuring that no child is left behind in the fight against hunger. (NJGD, PIA Caraga with a report from the Schools Division Office of Cabadbaran City)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Wednesday, 15 July 2026

2026-07-15T16:39:38.290+08:00

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

15 July 2026, Wednesday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Palace: Sara Duterte case extends beyond grave threats to national security

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/994924/palace-sara-duterte-case-extends-beyond-grave-threats-to-national-security/story/

2. Defense, prosecution start oral arguments on tax, bank records

-Senate urged to open Sara Duterte's tax, bank records; Defense says subpoena a 'weapon of fishing expedition'

-House prosecutors: Impeachment trial to test Duterte's fitness for office, not criminal guilt

-Prosecution drops Zuleika Lopez, Belinda Bello as witnesses

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/994941/truth-is-not-confidential-senate-urged-to-open-sara-duterte-s-tax-bank-records/story/

3. Unbothered: Marcos unfazed by survey ratings, stays focused on work — Palace

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

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/15/unbothered-marcos-unfazed-by-survey-ratings-stays-focused-on-work-palace

4. Marcoleta to be detained in QC jail; donors plead ‘not guilty’

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

https://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/read/marcoleta-to-be-detained-in-qc-jail-donors-plead-not-guilty

5. Sen. Imee hits Marcos admin for distancing from US plan to dismantle ICC

[Manila Bulletin, News5PH, One News, Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/15/sen-imee-hits-marcos-admin-for-distancing-from-us-plan-to-dismantle-icc

6. Marcos names Sarmiento as gov't chief for MILF peace process

[Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, News5PH, Philstar]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/15/marcos-names-sarmiento-as-govt-chief-for-milf-peace-process

7. ‘Binabawasan talaga kami, iniisa-isa’: Cayetano says 2019 SEA Games probe aims to ‘intimidate’ him

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, News5PH, Philstar]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/7/15/-binabawasan-talaga-kami-iniisa-isa-cayetano-says-2019-sea-games-probe-aims-to-intimidate-him-1433

8. Move to drop Bonoan from graft, plunder raps submitted for resolution

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2264017/move-to-drop-bonoan-from-graft-plunder-raps-submitted-for-resolution

9. Reported death toll due to Inday, Habagat at 26 —OCD

[Daily Tribune, DZBB, DZRH, GMA News, Manila Standard, News5PH]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/994914/reported-death-toll-due-to-inday-habagat-at-26-ocd/story/

10. Slain American marine biologist’s partner, sibling persons of interest

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

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/330990/slain-american-marine-biologists-partner-sibling-persons-of-interest

Wednesday, 15 July 2026

2026-07-15T16:32:14.524+08:00

‘All-Lights Village’ program brings solar lights to IP communities in Surigao Sur town

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

SAN MIGUEL, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — For generations, families in the indigenous peoples (IP) communities in barangays Libas Sud and Bolhoon in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur relied on darkness once the sun set. Without access to the country’s electrification program, daily activities, children’s studies, and community safety remained a challenge.

That reality is beginning to change.

In a significant step toward inclusive development under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the barangays of Libas Sud and Bolhoon became the first communities in Mindanao to benefit from the program on ‘All-Lights Village: Where Light Brings Hope.’

The initiative was formally launched on July 2 through a partnership among the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the local government of San Miguel, and the Global Peace Foundation, marked by a ceremonial signing in Barangay Libas Sud.

As part of the project, 100 portable solar lights were distributed to beneficiary families, and solar-powered streetlights were installed in the two off-grid communities to provide safe, reliable, and sustainable lighting.

The project aims to improve residents’ quality of life by enhancing safety, mobility, and access to clean energy while bringing government services closer to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

For beneficiaries like Gena Tejero, the assistance represents more than access to electricity—it is the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream. Raised in the same community without electricity, she expressed gratitude that government services had finally reached their community.

“Dako among pasalamat sa mga nagpaluyo sa programa, ug hinaut nga mosunod na usab ang uban pang serbisyo para sa mga kabus” (We are deeply grateful to everyone who supported this program, and we hope more government services will continue to reach poor communities like ours), she said.

Another beneficiary, Lorena Bocales, a beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), said the solar lights would greatly improve the lives of families in the community.

“Sa ngalan sa among kumunidad, gusto namo ipaabot o ipadayag ang among kinasingkasing nga pagpasalamat sa tanan nga mitabang og naghatag kanamo og mga solar lights. Dako kaayo ni og tabang sa among kumunidad, labi na sa mga lugar nga kulang og suga sa gabie. Kini makahatag og dugang kauswagan, kahayag, og kasiguruhan sa matag pamilya” (On behalf of our community, we sincerely thank everyone who helped and provided us with these solar lights. This is a great help, especially in areas with little or no lighting at night. These will bring greater progress, brightness, and security to every family), she shared.

Bocales added that the community would take good care of the solar lights, especially the streetlights.

“Ug kining inyong gihatag kanamo nga mga solar lights, labina kadtong sa street lights, amo kining paga ampingan sama sa pag-amping sa among kinabuhi, kay usa kini nga naghatag og kahayag sa among kumunidad og sa among kaugalingon” (We will protect these solar lights, especially the streetlights, as we would protect our own lives because they bring light, safety, and hope to our community), she said.

Barangay officials also welcomed the initiative.

Punong Barangays Charlito Intas of Libas Sud and Gladys Mae Corilla-Cubero of Bolhoon, who also served as ex officio members of the Sangguniang Bayan, expressed their gratitude to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the local government of San Miguel, the provincial government of Surigao del Sur, and the Global Peace Foundation for selecting their communities as beneficiaries of the project. They also encouraged recipient families to properly use and maintain the solar lights to ensure that future generations will continue to benefit from the initiative.

The provincial government of Surigao del Sur, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), complemented the initiative by distributing school supplies to kindergarten learners in the community.

DSWD Caraga Director Mari-Flor A. Dollaga said the initiative demonstrates that no community is too remote to receive government services when agencies and development partners work together.

“Kini usa nga nagpamatuod nga kung magtinabangay ang gobyerno og ang pribadong sektor, wala jud kumunidad nga layo aron maabtan sa tabang og serbisyo” (This proves that when the government and the private sector work together, no community is too far to receive assistance and essential services), Dollaga said.

She added that Libas Sud and Bolhoon were fortunate to become the first beneficiaries of the program in Mindanao.

“This is the vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration and the leadership of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian that wherever people are in need, no matter how remote their community is, the government will reach them, listen to them, and respond with concrete action. The government is here, the DSWD is here, and we will continue bringing services to even the farthest communities so that no family will be left behind,” she emphasized.

The All-Lights Village: Where Light Brings Hope initiative reflects the national government’s commitment to expanding access to basic services and improving the lives of underserved communities through strong partnerships between government and the private sector.

For families in the communities, the solar lights illuminate more than their homes; they symbolize hope, opportunity, and the government’s commitment to ensure that development reaches even the most remote corners of the country, leaving no Filipino behind. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)

Wednesday, 15 July 2026

2026-07-15T16:21:20.514+08:00

Caraga minerals industry sustains environmental responsibility advocacy

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The Caraga minerals industry gathered together to strengthen the advocacy campaign on sustained environmental responsibility, serving as a powerful demonstration of ecological commitment and collaboration.

The convergence took place on June 30 in Surigao City, spearheaded by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Caraga in line with this year’s culmination program of Environment Month.

It gathered stakeholders from across the Caraga minerals industry, serving as both a reflection of a month-long advocacy campaign and a rallying cry for sustained environmental responsibility.

The event was anchored on the theme, “Aksyon Klima, Bayanihang Mapagkalinga sa Kapaligiran” (Climate Action, Mutual Care for the Environment).

OIC-Regional Director Francis Glenn N. Suante reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to environmental stewardship, responsible mineral resource development, and active stakeholder engagement.

His address was particularly significant as it marked the continuation of the vision he championed during his tenure as chief of the Mine Safety, Environment and Social Development Division (MSESDD).

Now in his new role, Suante underscored the MGB Caraga’s ongoing mission and emphasized the Bureau’s dedication to sustainable development. His appointment symbolised a smooth transition, ensuring the consistent implementation of programs focused on environmental protection, responsible mining, and excellent public service.

“Our commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible mineral resources development remains unshakeable. True progress lies in our ability to engage our stakeholders and protect our ecosystems simultaneously,” Dir. Suante said.

To bridge the gap between complex environmental concepts and public awareness, and to highlight the celebration of three major competitions that were participated in by personnel from different mining companies, including eco-grazing board charcuterie, mining vlog, extemporaneous speaking, and the search for Ginoo at Binibining Kalikasan 2026.

Meanwhile, on behalf of the mining industry, CREDO (Community Relations, Education and Development Officers Organization, Inc.) Caraga President Rudilyn Velasco said, “This year’s Environment Month theme reminded us that the actions we take today will shape the future we leave for tomorrow. Protecting our environment is a shared responsibility – one that calls for collective action, commitment, and compassion.”

She said that awareness is the first step, but continuous learning and meaningful action are what truly empower us to address the growing challenges of climate change. Every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a lasting, positive impact.

Velasco added, “Together, let us build resilient and sustainable communities, united in our commitment to safeguard our planet for our children and for generations yet to come. Through the spirit of bayanihan, we can turn climate action into a shared mission and create a future where both people and nature thrive.”

She told the audience that the engagement amplified the voices of the Caraga minerals industry, reframing stakeholders not just as operators, but as proactive educators and climate change advocates.

As the 2026 Environment Month Culmination concluded, the message resonated that environmental protection is a shared, ongoing responsibility. Through this event, MGB Caraga reaffirmed its dedication to empowering local communities, enforcing rigorous regulatory standards, and cultivating a deep-seated culture of environmental awareness.

By strengthening partnerships between the government, private sector, and host communities, Caraga’s mining industry continues to pave the way toward a more resilient, sustainable, and climate-conscious future. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from MGB Caraga)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Tuesday, 14 July 2026

2026-07-14T17:41:55.004+08:00

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

14 July 2026, Tuesday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Sara Duterte maintains kill plot vs Marcos not supported by evidence

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2263453/sara-duterte-maintains-kill-plot-vs-marcos-not-supported-by-evidence

2. Palace: PH not involved in US plan to dismantle ICC

[Daily Tribune, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, Philstar]

https://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/read/palace-ph-not-involved-in-us-plan-to-dismantle-icc

3. Sara Duterte to support Lopez on Day 5 of impeachment trial – Defense

-'Galingan niyo pa ng konti': Ridon trash talks VP Duterte defense team

-Duterte 'death threat' alone can justify impeachment, alleged hitman need not be proven–Chua

-DOJ: Probe on complaints vs Sara Duterte to be resolved ‘at appropriate time’

-Duterte's defense team appoints additional spokesman

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/7/14/duterte-death-threat-alone-justifies-impeachment-hitman-need-not-be-proven-chua-1218

4. Marcos inaugurates world's largest solar farm facility

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

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/07/14/news/marcos-inaugurates-worlds-largest-solar-farm-facility/2383806

5. PBBM satisfaction rating improves in latest SWS survey

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, One News]

https://manilastandard.net/news/314765408/pbbm-satisfaction-rating-improves-in-latest-sws-survey.html#google_vignette

6. Baligod faces arrest over cyberlibel complaint filed by DA chief

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/994740/levi-baligod-arrest-warrant-cyber-libel-case/story/

7. Marcos orders proposed 2027 budget to prioritize implementation-ready projects

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/994799/funding-budget-projects/story/

8. New threat shuts Tacloban school hit by mass shooting

[ABS-CBN News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, NewsWatchPlus]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2263231/new-threat-shuts-tacloban-school-hit-by-mass-shooting

9. Detained Marcoleta taken to PGH for medical evaluation

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

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/07/14/2542094/detained-marcoleta-taken-pgh-medical-evaluation

10. Josie weakens ahead of PAR exit; new LPA forms off southern China

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/weather-traffic/2026/7/14/josie-weakens-ahead-of-par-exit-new-lpa-forms-off-southern-china-1206

Tuesday, 14 July 2026

2026-07-14T17:37:12.333+08:00

NNC Caraga calls on families to grow, eat nutritious food for a healthier future

By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur — Nutrition Officer III Leah Vina P. Vargas of the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Caraga encouraged Filipino families to make eating together at home a regular practice and establish backyard food gardens to produce their own nutritious vegetables, during the Kapihan sa PIA at SM City Butuan.

She emphasized that growing vegetables at home not only provides families with healthier food options but also contributes to environmental conservation by promoting sustainable food production and reducing food waste. Vargas added that teaching children the value of healthy eating and gardening is an investment in building a healthier future generation.

“We encourage everyone to eat at home and eat with your family. Establish backyard food gardens with four to five varieties of vegetables. This practice helps improve household nutrition, protects the environment, and reduces waste from buying food outside,” Vargas said.

Vargas also called on schools and educational institutions to strengthen nutrition education among learners by promoting healthy eating habits and raising awareness on the importance of proper nutrition, including breastfeeding as a vital component of child development.

She likewise encouraged government agencies, private organizations, and development partners to champion healthy eating in workplaces, establish office and household food gardens, and provide nutritious food choices for employees. According to Vargas, these collective efforts can help improve nutrition outcomes while supporting environmental sustainability and the goals of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN).

NNC’s mandate directly aligns with that of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a healthier Philippines through the provision of proper nutrition and food security, especially for vulnerable sectors of society, such as children.

“Our dinner table and ecosystems are all interconnected, which means that we cannot cultivate a healthy population on a sick planet. Our well-being mirrors the vitality of our surroundings,” President Marcos Jr. said in his message during the opening of the 2026 National Nutrition Month.

His message underscored the strong connection between environmental protection and food security, in line with this year’s National Nutrition Month theme, ‘Sa PPAN: Sama-sama sa Nutrisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat!’ and sub-theme, ‘Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan!’

Through this year’s Nutrition Month celebration, the NNC continues to advocate for stronger collaboration among families, communities, schools, government agencies, and the private sector in promoting healthier lifestyles while protecting the environment, recognizing that food security and a healthy ecosystem go hand in hand. (KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur)