PIA - Caraga Regional Office

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Wednesday, 8 April 2026

2026-04-08T17:41:00.010+08:00

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

08 April 2026, Wednesday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Unemployment eases to 5.1% in February

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

https://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/read/unemployment-eases-to-5-1-in-february

2. DUTERTE IMPEACHMENT CASE:

-Sara Duterte defense team says SC petition vs impeachment aims ‘to seek clarity’, ‘not avoid process’

-Court allows VP Sara 'bagman' to appear in House impeachment hearing: Ridon

-House subpoenas SEC for VP Duterte, husband business records

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/8/vp-sara-camp-confirms-sc-petition-seeking-halt-to-impeachment-proceedings-0902

3. Marcos cautious with what he eats after diverticulitis; Palace to file complaints against fake news on PBBM's health

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Sunstar]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/04/08/marcos-cautious-with-what-he-eats-after-diverticulitis-palace-says

4. DTI extends price freeze on basic goods through end of April

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

https://manilastandard.net/business/314724289/dti-extends-price-freeze-on-basic-goods-through-end-of-april.html

5. OIL PRICES, SUPPLY:

-Fuel prices unlikely to normalize soon even if war ends today: Garin

-Palace assures business groups of sufficient fuel supply

-DOE warns diesel prices could hit P200 amid global oil crisis

-Oil supply enough for 50 days; buffer shipments arriving this month

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2208472/oil-supply-enough-for-50-days-buffer-shipments-arriving-this-month

6. DFA: Passport release delays possible due to Middle East war

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/8/dfa-passport-release-delays-possible-due-to-middle-east-war-1250

7. CHED approves shift to online classes for universities amid crisis

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, Manila Standard, Philstar]

https://manilastandard.net/news/314724314/ched-approves-shift-to-online-classes-for-universities-amid-crisis.html#google_vignette

8. MMDA: No coding on 'Araw ng Kagitingan'; MRT-3, LRT-2 offers free rides on April 9

[Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Philstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2208647/no-number-coding-on-april-9-for-araw-ng-kagitingan-mmda

9. 9 nabbed for illegal trade of P9.7M in petrol products; PNP tracing source of seized fuel in Navotas port

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/8/pnp-tracing-source-of-seized-fuel-in-navotas-port-1438

10. LPA outside PAR has 'high chance' of developing into cyclone

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, News5PH, Panay News, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/weather/content/983012/lpa-monitored-outside-par-has-high-chance-of-developing-into-cyclone/story/

Wednesday, 8 April 2026

2026-04-08T17:33:00.000+08:00

Mitigating high prices: Corn as affordable, healthy substitute for rice

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The budget-friendly substitute for rice made from milled corn or ‘mais’ has inspired communities in Libjo, Province of Dinagat Islands, to revive a frugal way of sustaining the staple as families feel the impact of high rice prices, stemming from the ongoing energy crisis.

This initiative is led by the local government of Libjo, under Mayor Melody L. Compassivo, through the Municipal Agriculture Office, which distributes milled corn to households in the barangays of Rosita and Bayanihan on March 18.

According to Mayor Compassivo, the activity aims to strengthen food security by engaging communities on alternative food sources in the municipality, especially with the spike in food and rice prices.

She shared its ongoing partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga under the Corn Program. This partnership included distributing hybrid corn seeds and fertilizers to farmers in Barangay Garcia on March 10 to boost corn production and make the town self-reliant.

“Tumong sa programa nga matabangan ang mga panimalay sa pagpakunhod sa gasto sa pagkaon samtang ginapalambo ang lokal nga produksyon sa mais. Nagpasalamat usab ang lokal nga panggamhanan sa padayon nga suporta sa mga ahensya nga mitabang para moabot kini nga serbisyo sa atong mga benepisyaryo para sa kalampusan sa maong programa. (The objective of the program is to help households mitigate rising food expenses while strengthening our corn production. We are also thankful to the different government agencies for allowing these services to reach the beneficiaries in the LGU and for the successful implementation of the program),“ the local executive said.

“Padayon ang LGU sa pagpalambo og mga programa nga makatubag sa panginahanglan sa katawhan ug makapalig-on sa agrikultura sa lungsod sa Libjo. (The LGU continues to support programs that can meet the needs of the communities and bolster the agriculture sector in the town of Libjo),” Compassivo added.

Meanwhile, milled corn is prepared through ‘buyok,’ a traditional cooking method that takes a shorter time. The milled corn is poured into a pot of boiling water on low fire, and stirred until the water disappears, the corn grits become soft, and it is ready to eat. This cooking method is also common in rural areas of the country during large gatherings like birthdays and fiestas.

While rice from cereal grain sells in the market at an average price of P60-65 per kilo, milled corn sells attractively from P45-50 per kilo. Corn, as an affordable rice substitute, is also known for its nutritional value, being rich in dietary fiber and low in calories. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with a report from MIO Libjo)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Tuesday, 07 April 2026

2026-04-07T17:09:11.709+08:00

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

07 April 2026, Tuesday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Inflation accelerates to 4.1% in March amid fuel price shock

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/economy/982866/inflation-accelerates-to-4-1-in-march-amid-fuel-price-shock/story/

2. PCO files charges vs FB page spreading false info amid energy crisis

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/982911/pco-files-charges-vs-fb-page-spreading-false-info-amid-energy-crisis/story/

3. 'Hindi pang media lang': Palace insists on due process as critics hit 'slow' filing of flood control scandal cases

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/7/palace-insists-on-due-process-as-critics-hit-slow-filing-of-flood-control-scandal-cases-1444

4. JV Ejercito urge gov't execs: Stop sugarcoating reports to PBBM

[Daily Tribune, DZRH, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/04/07/jv-ejercito-urge-govt-execs-stop-sugarcoating-reports-to-pbbm

5. DUTERTE IMPEACHMENT CASE:

-WR Numero poll: 53 percent reject Sara Duterte impeachment, but 46 percent unaware of evidence

-House panel subpoenas records of ‘Mary Grace Piattos,’ Sara Duterte taxes

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/7/wr-numero-poll-53-percent-reject-sara-duterte-impeachment-but-46-percent-unaware-of-evidence-1443

6. SC holds oral arguments on national budget, unprogrammed funds

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

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/video-supreme-court-oral-arguments-budget-unprogrammed-funds-april-7-2026/

7. Peso’s purchasing power drops to 75 centavos from 2018 level

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News, Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/business/2026/4/7/peso-s-purchasing-power-drops-to-75-centavos-from-2018-level-1518

8. Another Filipino dies in Israel amid airstrikes

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/317182/another-filipino-dies-in-israel-amid-airstrikes

9. Atong Ang reportedly in Vietnam as PH authorities verify

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

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/317227/atong-ang-fled-to-vietnam-ahead-of-arrest-orders-remulla

10. DILG: Interpol red notice vs Zaldy Co may be out soon; AMLC: Zaldy Co received P802M from flood project contractor

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/7/dilg-interpol-red-notice-vs-zaldy-co-may-be-out-soon-1226

Tuesday, 7 April 2026

2026-04-07T17:04:00.000+08:00

DOLE rescues 50 child laborers in Butuan City, extends support services

By Mariesh F. Celedeña

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — About 50 child laborers engaged in hazardous work were rescued and provided support services by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and other partner agencies, highlighting the government’s commitment to protecting the children.

Most of the children were previously engaged in work not appropriate to their age and capacity, such as construction, waste scavenging, small-scale mining, and agricultural work. These situations exposed them to unsafe and harmful conditions.

Of these children, 20 are from Barangay Kinamlutan, 19 from Barangay Doongan, and 11 from Barangay De Oro. These children were profiled from 2019 to 2025 and assisted during the first quarter Information and Service Caravan on March 31, 2026.

According to Gladys O. Cafe, livelihood development specialist of DOLE Caraga, one of the most common reasons children engage in labor is their strong desire to help their families and ease their current economic hardships.

“Most child laborers in Butuan City willingly work because they are aware of their family’s situation, often struggling to meet basic needs such as food. At a very young age, they already feel the need to help their families survive, when, in fact, survival is a fundamental right that should be fully protected for every child,” said Cafe.

To ensure that the children will no longer return to hazardous labor, DOLE Caraga and other agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), extended immediate assistance, such as hygiene kits, essential goods, and orientations on Republic Act No. 9231.

Beyond these, the department emphasized long-term interventions. Under the Child Labor Prevention and Elimination Program (CLPEP), parents were beneficiaries of livelihood programs and in the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD).

“By providing livelihood support directly to their parents, we can ensure that they have a sustainable income that can ensure that their children are provided for and can return to school and have proper education,” Cafe added.

Meanwhile, the city government of Butuan expressed its strong support for the campaign against child labor. City Mayor Lawrence Lemuel H. Fortun assured the city’s strong support and continued collaboration.

“Rest assured, the city government will partner with DOLE, and whatever support you need to strengthen and promote our program against child labor, we will provide. You can count on our full support. I have always been an advocate for children’s rights and welfare since my time in Congress,” he said. (MFC, PIA Caraga with a report from DOLE Caraga)

Tuesday, 7 April 2026

2026-04-07T16:58:00.005+08:00

Former rebel in Surigao Sur praises gov’t, encourages others to choose peace

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — A former rebel identified as ‘Ka Luna,’ formerly affiliated with Guerrilla Front 19, thanked the government for the assistance she received under the reintegration program.

“Pag-declare kanako nga surrenderer, nadawat nako ang mga financial assistance nga gikan sa gobyerno. Pasalamat namo kang Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny Pimentel sa iyahang mga paningkamot ug sa mga kauban pod nako nga former rebels (FRs) nga natabangan sa ilang pagpanugod sa pagpanginabuhi,” Ka Luna said, as she also encourages remaining rebels to choose peace for a better future.

(When I was declared a surrenderee, I received financial assistance from the government. I am grateful to Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny Pimentel for his efforts and for helping other former rebels have their new livelihoods.)

Her statement reflects FRs’ growing trust in the government as they continue to benefit from the reintegration programs that provide financial assistance, livelihood opportunities, and skills development, supporting their transition into productive members of society.

Meanwhile, 19 FRs received various forms of assistance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and other partner agencies.

The ceremonial awarding of assistance was conducted during the 1st quarter Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting in Tandag City, highlighting continuing collaboration among national agencies, local government units, and security forces in promoting peace and development in conflict-affected communities.

Of the 19 FRs who benefited from the E-CLIP program, eight of the beneficiaries came from the operational area of the 36th Infantry Battalion led by Lieutenant Colonel Joselito B. Ante Jr.

The awarding ceremony was led by Gov. Pimentel, who reaffirmed the provincial government’s strong support for reintegration initiatives that empower former rebels to rebuild their lives and contribute to community development.

Each beneficiary received a total of ₱75,000 in financial assistance, including ₱65,000 for livelihood support and ₱10,000 as immediate cash aid. This assistance is designed to help former rebels build sustainable livelihoods, secure stable income, and provide for their families as they reintegrate into civilian life, offering a concrete foundation for a fresh start and a productive future.

Beyond financial aid, beneficiaries were also provided with livelihood and skills training from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), temporary employment opportunities under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers Program (TUPAD) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and hygiene kits distributed by the Provincial Health Office of Surigao del Sur (PHO).

These integrated services demonstrate the government’s whole-of-nation approach to addressing the root causes of insurgency by promoting inclusive opportunities, strengthening livelihoods, and supporting long-term community stability.

Military encourages remaining armed individuals to surrender

Lieutenant Colonel Ante emphasized that the 36th Infantry Battalion will continue to encourage remaining armed individuals to surrender and take advantage of government programs designed to support peaceful reintegration.

He highlighted that the E-CLIP program not only provides financial assistance but also creates pathways to education, employment, and livelihood opportunities that promote family and community stability.

“The E-CLIP program offers not only financial support but also a chance for a new beginning and a better future for former rebels and their families,” Ante said.

Whole-of-government approach strengthens peace and development

The reintegration of FRs forms part of the broader peace and development agenda of the national government, which emphasizes collaboration among agencies and local stakeholders to address the underlying causes of insurgency.

Through sustained coordination among key agencies, the government continues to provide FRs with opportunities to rebuild their lives and contribute to nation-building.

The initiative highlights the government’s continued efforts to strengthen nationwide peace initiatives that promote inclusive growth, foster trust among communities, and ensure that former rebels are given the chance to live productive and peaceful lives.

As more FRs avail of reintegration programs, government officials remain hopeful that sustained support, strong leadership, and community participation will pave the way for lasting peace and development not only in Surigao del Sur but across conflict-affected areas in the country.

Through unity, compassion, and sustained government support, the path toward lasting peace continues to unfold, one reintegrated life at a time. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)

Tuesday, 7 April 2026

2026-04-07T16:52:00.003+08:00

From survival to stability: The transformation of farmers in Kitcharao, Agusan Norte

By Nora L. Molde

Before sunrise breaks over the fields of Kitcharao in Agusan del Norte, the road leading to the LGU Farm is already alive.

The low rumble of engines cuts through the morning stillness as trucks and motorcycles, heavy with freshly harvested vegetables, make their way to the market. Farmers arrive one by one, unloading baskets of eggplant, squash, okra, and leafy greens, produce that, not long ago, would have been sold at prices barely enough to recover what they spent to grow them.

Today, the scene tells a different story.

Buyers gather early, scanning the rows of produce. Conversations flow easily. Prices are negotiated face-to-face. There are no middlemen dictating terms—only farmers and consumers meeting on equal ground.

This is “Tabo sa Kitcharao LGU Farm,” a twice-weekly market day held every Tuesday and Friday. What may seem like a simple trading space has become, for many farmers, a turning point.

For years, farmers in Kitcharao depended on intermediaries who controlled the flow of goods and dictated prices. Earnings were unpredictable, often leaving families struggling to make ends meet. But here, in this open market, that cycle is slowly being broken.

By selling directly to consumers, farmers now take home a bigger share of their hard work. The change is immediate, felt not just in their income, but in their sense of control.

The local government of Kitcharao has quietly reinforced this shift. Vehicles are deployed to collect produce from farms and transport it to the market, easing one of the heaviest burdens farmers face: the cost of taking their goods to the market. With the initiative, what used to be an uncertain livelihood income has now become stable.

The effort reflects a broader push aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to attain stronger agricultural productivity, better market access, and fairer returns for farmers.

But beyond policies and programs, the real story is found in the lives being rebuilt.

In Barangay Mahayahay, farmer Nelia Geroy remembers when floods wiped out their vegetable garden. The loss was not just financial—it cast uncertainty over how her family would recover.

Geroy received seedlings and assistance from the local government, allowing her to start planting again on their 3.5-hectare farm.

Recovery did not happen overnight. But season by season, crop by crop, Geroy is finding her footing again.

Her story echoes across Kitcharao, where many farmers are experiencing similar second chances under the Kitcharao Livelihood and Employment Project (KLEP).

Launched in 2023, the program has steadily expanded its reach. In its first phase alone, more than a hundred farmers collectively produced over 126,000 kilograms of vegetables, generating millions in sales. Subsequent phases brought in more farmers, more funding, and more opportunities, including support for members of the Mamanwa indigenous community.

Yet the impact of KLEP goes beyond numbers.

At the heart of the initiative is a three-hectare LGU Farm in Sitio Lapucon, a space that serves not just as a production site, but as a place for learning and growth. Here, farmers are introduced to modern, integrated farming methods that combine crops, livestock, and aquaculture.

Instead of relying on a single harvest, they are learning to diversify, spreading risk, increasing productivity, and creating multiple sources of income.

Mayor Jenry Montante believes that lasting change begins with knowledge. “I want our farmers to learn and be guided by the modern way of farming. They will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to sustain their livelihood.”

Training sessions, supported by agencies such as the Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Training Institute, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), provide farmers with tools to adapt, whether it means improving yields, adopting new techniques, or responding to shifting market demands.

Even the farm itself is evolving. With a tilapia pond and recreational fishing area, it is beginning to open doors to agri-tourism, offering yet another stream of income.

What is happening in Kitcharao is not a sudden transformation, but a steady one.

The early-morning activity and enthusiasm of farmers in their daily farm-to-market routine attest to this transformation and profound confidence. It is heard in conversations where prices are negotiated, rather than dictated. It is felt in households where income is no longer as uncertain as it once was.

Municipal Agriculturist Raul del Agua observed that farmers are no longer simply producers at the mercy of the market. They are becoming active players in a growing local food system, one that values their work and sustains their future.

And as the sun rises higher over the LGU Farm, the market continues to buzz with activity. Each sack of vegetables unloaded, each sale made, carries more than just produce. It carries the weight of past struggles and the promise of something better.

In Kitcharao, the journey from survival to stability is no longer just an aspiration; it is already a growing reality. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

Tuesday, 7 April 2026

2026-04-07T16:45:00.006+08:00

1,128 4Ps Caraga families connected through DICT’s Bayanihan SIM

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — A total of 1,128 subscriber identity module (SIM) cards were distributed to Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries in Caraga by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

This DICT project fulfills the government’s commitment to digital inclusion, ensuring that 4Ps beneficiaries, who are one of the most vulnerable sectors of society, are equipped with the tools to participate in the digital economy.

The initiative, carried out in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga, covered 39 barangays across the provinces of Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur, held from March 11-13.

DICT Caraga Director Mario P. Cuñado said, “Guided by the spirit of ‘bayanihan,’ the Filipino tradition of communities working together, the government has rolled out the Bayanihan SIM Project to ensure that no family is left behind in the digital age.”

“Each beneficiary received a Bayanihan SIM card with 25GB monthly data allocation for one year, enabling families to stay connected for education, communication, access to government services, and livelihood opportunities,” Dir. Cuñado added.

For DSWD Caraga, the initiative enabled families in unserved and underserved communities to access reliable mobile connectivity, avail themselves of essential services, and benefit from the opportunities of the digital age. The agency identified eligible beneficiaries and facilitated coordination with 4Ps families across Caraga to ensure that the program reaches its intended recipients.

“Ang inisyatibong ito ay isang konkretong halimbawa ng convergence ng mga ahensya ng pamahalaan upang mas mapalapit ang mga serbisyo sa ating mga benepisyaryo. (This initiative is a concrete example of the convergence among agencies of the government to bring services closer to the beneficiaries),” said DSWD Caraga Assistant Regional Director for Operations Jean Paul S. Pajares, during the project kick-off in Veruela, Agusan del Sur.

Beneficiaries also shared how the Bayanihan SIM project will help them stay connected. “The Bayanihan SIM has been a great help to parents like me whose children struggle to access the internet. Because of this, my kids can connect online which supports their studies, helps them learn more, and allows them to give their best in school,” Jessica Miranda, 4Ps beneficiary from Barangay Magsaysay, Madrid, Surigao del Sur, said.

More than just internet access, the Bayanihan SIM project highlights connectivity as a pathway to opportunity, empowerment, and inclusive growth, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with a report from DICT Caraga and DSWD Caraga)

Thursday, 02 April 2026

2026-04-02T11:00:00.003+08:00

Butuan City launches carpooling for 2026 Panaad amid high fuel prices

By Mariesh F. Celedeña

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The city government of Butuan continues to demonstrate unity and compassion during the Holy Week with its carpooling initiative for the 2026 Panaad, ensuring support to residents who want to express their faith despite the continued rise in fuel prices.

Under the program, designated pick-up points will be established across the city where individuals can safely join shared rides going to Sitio Mahayahay, Barangay Anticala, where Panaad 2026 was held.

“We have five (5) designated pick-up points located at Libertad Overpass, Guingona Park, Tiniwisan, Rotunda Ampayon, and Taguibo Crossing,” said City Councilor Theodore Gabriel Salcedo.

He added that a total of 10 buses will be deployed to provide free carpool services. These same pick-up points will also serve as designated drop-off areas after the Panaad 2026. The free carpool service will remain available until the conclusion of the activity.

During the site inspection conducted by the city government and partner agencies, namely, the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, Congressman Jose S. Aquino II, and Councilor Theodore Gabriel Salcedo on March 30, 2026, in Sitio Mahayahay, Anticala, ensured that the road was secure for the safety of all the devotees who were going to join.

Meanwhile, a designated parking area was also established for those bringing their private vehicles and motorcycles, ensuring that the vehicles are safe and the pilgrimage orderly.

The city government emphasized that the carpool initiative is more than just a response to high fuel prices but a reflection of the community’s spirit of devotion through service to others. (MFC, PIA Caraga, with a report from the Office of Butuan City Councilor Salcedo)

Thursday, 02 April 2026

2026-04-02T11:00:00.001+08:00

PMO Surigao activates ‘Oplan Biyaheng Ayos’ for Holy Week

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — To ensure the safety and convenience of travelers during the 2026 Lenten season and summer break, the Port Management Office (PMO) of Surigao has officially activated ‘Oplan Biyaheng Ayos.’

The initiative places all ports under a heightened alert status and introduces the ‘malasakit help desks’ to assist the anticipated surge of passengers. On Tuesday, March 31, Port Manager Froilan U. Caturla and Port Police Chief Elvis Daguman conducted a personal inspection of the Surigao Passenger Terminal Building to verify operational readiness.

Manager Caturla said, “To prevent congestion and ensure orderly transit, the PMO has outlined several mandatory protocols.”

The mandatory protocols include the following:

Streamlined operations. All service counters will be fully operational during peak hours to minimize queuing. Feedback hotlines have also been activated for real-time passenger assistance.
Enhanced security. All passengers must undergo mandatory security screening before boarding. Security personnel, supported by 24/7 CCTV monitoring, will maintain high visibility. A “fast lane” has been established for PWDs, senior citizens, pregnant women, and those with minimal luggage.
Facility upgrades. The port will provide 24/7 first aid, clean restrooms, free drinking water, and additional tents and chairs for waiting areas.
Inter-Agency Coordination. The PMO is working closely with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and maritime law enforcement to prevent any criminal activity or harassment of travelers outside the port premises.
First aid facilities. In coordination with the Philippine Red Cross, health care workers are on standby as first responders, offering services such as blood pressure checks.

To ensure operational efficiency and public safety, all personnel must adhere to the following security protocols:

Security and Vigilance. Maintain a heightened alert status by proactively monitoring high-traffic areas and port property to protect passengers and staff.
Staffing and Equipment. Port police stations must be manned 24/7. Officers on duty must wear functional body-worn cameras at all times; any equipment malfunction must be reported immediately.
Communication and Coordination Stations must maintain active, publicly accessible phone numbers and email addresses, prominently displayed on-site and online. Personnel are expected to collaborate closely with local law enforcement to ensure a unified emergency response.
Passenger Service Officers should remain visible and available to assist travelers with inquiries, providing the guidance necessary to ensure a smooth and efficient flow of port operations.

Caturla added that PMO Surigao urged passengers to declare metallic objects or industrial tools before X-ray inspections to speed up processing.

Ship agents have also been directed to provide frequent, real-time updates on vessel arrival and departure schedules. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from PPA-PMO Surigao)

Thursday, 02 April 2026

2026-04-02T10:30:00.004+08:00

Streets of Dinagat Islands’ town turn flavorful this Holy Week with its ‘Binignit Festival’

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The town in San Jose in the Province of Dinagat Islands is set to elevate ‘Binignit,’ a famous native delicacy cooked during the Holy Week, from a mere household preparation to a community-wide engagement with its most anticipated ‘Binignit Festival’ on Good Friday, April 3, 2026.

During Binignit Festival, the households in all 12 barangays of the town with 26,735 population (2024 census) will cook binignit, a Filipino delicacy made from rice gruel with fruits and tubers, stewed in coconut milk along with sugar and ‘sago’ or tapioca pearls.

San Jose Mayor Ruben D. Zuniega shared the collaboration behind the festivity in its second year in support of meaningful Holy Week observance, as well as a strategic initiative to boost the tourism sector of the town and the province, especially with the onset of summer vacation. “This community engagement is spearheaded by the barangay officials, including the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), and the local government of San Jose through the Municipal Tourism, Culture and Arts Office (MTCAO).”

“Ang festival naghatag og bili sa espiritu sa Puasa, pagkahiusa, ug pagpamalandong sa panahon sa Kuwaresma. Usa kini ka higayon aron maghiusa, magtinabangay, ug lig-onon ang atong komunidad” (The festival gives value to the spirit of penitential fasting as we prepare and reflect for Easter, an opportunity for unity and cooperation to strengthen the community),” Mayor Zuniega said.

“Dad-a ang inyong pamilya, mga higala, ug lingawa ang usa ka hapon nga puno sa init, kalami, ug panaghiusa samtang ipakita sa atong mga barangay ang ilang pinakamaayo ug pinakalami nga binignit” (Please bring your family and friends and let us all enjoy the afternoon filled with warm and delicious binignit, while we showcase the unity of all our barangays, and we also cook the best binignit), the mayor said.

“Kita-kits, San Jose! Magsaulog kita sa atong kultura, mga bili, ug pagkalig-on nga komunidad” (See you all, San Jose! Let us celebrate our culture, values and community resilience).

According to MTCAO, for this year, the festival will feature a parade of binignit in the town’s main streets going to the PBMA Shrine in Barangay Aurelio, where everyone – locals, tourists, and travelers can stop by and have a free taste of the dish.

San Jose Municipal Information Officer Jurie Mancia also relayed that every barangay will cook binignit, and all will be pooled together to create a vibrant street full of binignit where everybody is invited to eat. “Last year, 700 individuals participated in the activity. This year, the LGU is targeting to have at least 1,000 people join and bring vigor to the Binignit Festival.”

Meanwhile, the town of San Jose serves as the provincial capital and the gateway of the island province. It offers tourism portfolios, such as culture and heritage, pristine beaches, festivals, and gastronomy, among others.

It is where locals and tourists come, revisit, and witness in awe the heritage site of PBMA Shrine and the Islander’s Castle, and be zestful at Don Ruben island-hopping gateway and the Santa Cruz beach resort.

The municipality also offers unique edifices such as the flamboyant Japanese warship-inspired IJN Yamashiro People’s Hall Building, and the nearly finished Magellan-Elcano’s Galeon Victoria replica ship to serve as the Provincial Tourism, Culture and Heritage Center, both located in Barangay Cuarinta. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with a report from San Jose MTCAO)