PSA Leyte, LCRPA Inc. and LGU Hilongos spearhead the 35th Civil Registration Month launching

By PSA-8
February 10, 2025

HILONGOS, Leyte – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Leyte Provincial Statistical Office, in collaboration with the Leyte Civil Registry Personnel Association, Inc. (LCRPA, Inc.), and with the generous facilitation of the Local Government Unit of Hilongos, Leyte, through the steering of its Local Civil Registry Office (LCRO) headed by Albert S. Roa, spearheaded the kickstart of the monthlong Civil Registration Month (CRM) by conducting the 35th CRM Launching, Caravan, Awarding of Outstanding Local Civil Registry Offices (LCROs) and CRVS Festival, last 6-7 February 2025 at the Western Gym, Hilongos, Leyte. This year’s celebration banks on the theme “Building a Resilient, Agile, and Future-Fit Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) System”.

The two-day program was commenced by a caravan joined by 38 out of 43 LCROs across the Province of Leyte duly represented by their Local Civil Registrars and/or their staff totaling to more or less 213 participants. From the convergence point along the Baybay City Hall, the caravanners convoyed towards Hilongos, Leyte, then circled around the main thoroughfares of the municipality before settling at the venue, Western Gym, Hilongos, Leyte.

At the gym, the program was immediately commenced through the LGU Rhythm which guided the audience to the program prayer, singing of the National Anthem, Bagong Pilipinas, and the LGU Hymn, through their live performance. This was followed by the Welcome Remarks by the Hilongos, Leyte Mayor, Honorable Manuel R. Villahermosa, whom, despite his fervent interest to attend the worthwhile activity, had to attend to an equally important matter. Thus, he sent Atty. Leizyl Mae Reoma Galia-Claros, their Municipal Legal Officer, to deliver his Welcome Remarks which focused on his gratitude and enthusiasm over everyone’s presence and fervor to deliver efficient and effective civil registration services to the public. The PSA Leyte and LCRPA, Inc. honored their effort and generosity through the Awarding of Plaques and Tokens to the LGU and LCRO of Hilongos, Leyte.

Thereafter, the LCRPA, Inc. Cluster VI delighted everyone with their Mass Dance which showcased the cluster’s talent and camaraderie. Meanwhile, PSA RSSO8 Regional Director Wilma A. Perante delivered her Inspirational Message which focused on her gratitude and encouragement to the LCROs to better, if not continue, the best practices being done by the respective offices in line with their duty, and to undertake flagship projects in collaboration with the PSA such as the National ID Registration and the Birth Registration Assistance Project (BRAP) which aims to elevate Filipino peoples’ eligibility to social programs. Moreover, the LCRPA Inc. President, and Baybay City Civil Registrar likewise delivered his Inspirational Message which focused on his gratitude to the LGU and LCRO of Hilongos, Leyte for undertaking such feat of hosting the 35th CRM Launching, as well as for all of the LCROs’ support to the causes of the LCRPA, Inc. consistent with the goal of bringing forth a resilient, agile, and future-fit CRVS System to the public.

PSA Leyte Chief Statistical Specialist, Sheryl Ann A. Jamisola, then followed cascading briefly the basics on the Administrative Petition for Correction Automated System (APCAS) piloted at the Local Civil Registry Office of Ormoc City last December 2024, which is a system aimed at simplifying the processing of petitions for administrative correction of entries in civil registry documents. This is to inspire and apprise the other LCROs of the benefits and necessary preparations they must undertake should the APCAS be fully institutionalized by the PSA.

Following the showing of the 2024 CRVS Activities in an AVP and an Intermission Number from the LGU Hilongos personnel, was the Awarding of the 2024 Outstanding Local Civil Registry Offices. A total of 42 LCROs within the Province of Leyte received their awards, comprised of 16 Minor Awards, 18 Placer Awards, 8 Most Outstanding LCRO Awards, and 9 Special Awards. Said Awarding is an annual

undertaking of the PSA in order to tangibly express our gratitude, and incentivize the hard work of the LCROs which in effect, aids PSA Leyte in its vision and mission for the civil registration services in the province.

Finally, the last part of the program was the conduct of the CRVS Festival which included the parlor games – Guess that Movie and Balloon Relay, which aimed to let the participants enjoy and foster closer bond with the other LCRO personnel, as well as give them a break from the tedious day to day transactions in their respective offices. The winning participants received cash prize, courtesy of the LCRPA, Inc. More so, 60 lucky pickers were able to win 20 POP-CEN CBMS Tote Bags, PSA Black Tumblers, and flash drives, as raffle prizes care of the PSA Leyte.

This February 2025, a series of activities are still lined up for this month-long celebration and it is hoped that the public and the stakeholders will take active support in order to make such activities successful.

2 CTG members killed; high-powered firearms seized in Samar clash

By DPAO, 8ID PA
February 7, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – Two Communist Terrorists Group (CTG) members were killed while assorted war materials were seized during a series of encounters in the hinterlands of Barangay Sto. Niño, Paranas, Samar on February 5, 2025.

The encounter ensued after a focused military operation was conducted following the information given by concerned civilians that a group of armed men were seen conducting extortion activities in said barangay.

The initial clash occurred around 5 a.m. when troops of the 87th Infantry Battalion encountered an undetermined number of CTGs believed to be members of Yakal Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee Browser of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) in the hinterlands of Barangay Sto. Niño, Paranas, Samar.

Subsequently at 8 a.m. on the same day, another troops from 87IB encountered the same CTGs attempting to evade government forces.

Minutes after the second encounter the blocking forces of 87IB encountered the evading CTGs. The firefight lasted for 3 minutes that resulted in the death of two unidentified CTG members and the seizure of one M16 rifle, one caliber 45 pistol, two International Humanitarian Law (IHL) banned anti-personnel mines, one rifle grenade, assorted magazines, ammunition and other war materiel.

In a statement, Brigadier General Lenart Lelina, commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade, extended his sympathies to the slain rebel's family, emphasizing that the loss of life is always tragic and reiterating the military's commitment to peace and reconciliation. He urged remaining terrorists to consider laying down their arms and embracing the government's reintegration programs to build a more peaceful and progressive future.

The 8ID Commander Major General Adonis Ariel Orio said that the success of the operation was made possible because of the concern and eagerness of the people to help the government eradicate Communist Terrorist Groups in Samar.

"This is our strong response to the wishes of our people to be free from the continuous threats of the remaining terrorists. We will continue to scour every mountain of Eastern Visayas until we get rid of the last CTG member,” Maj. Gen. Orio emphasized.

He added that despite the aggressive operations against the CTGs, the government troops are still willing to help those who want to surrender and live a new and peaceful life with their families.

Baybay City, Leyte declared as insurgency-free

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
February 7, 2025

CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City – The City of Baybay, a component city in the province of Leyte was declared to be in a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) today, February 7, 2025.

The declaration ceremony was attended by key city and barangay officials headed by Hon. Jose Carlos L. Cari, Mayor and Chairman of City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (CTF-ELCAC) of Baybay City.

Senior military and Police officials were also present during the activity to witness the declaration, such as Brigadier General Noel A Vestuir, Brigade Commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Edgar A. Gabia, Commanding Officer of the 14th Infantry (Avenger) Battalion, and Police Colonel Dioniso Dela Cruz Apaz Jr, Provincial Director, Leyte, Police Provincial Office.

The SIPSC declaration was highlighted by the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Pledge of Commitment, as well as the release of white doves which symbolizes peace and new beginnings.

Mayor Cari expressed his town's gratitude to all stakeholders who were instrumental in achieving the state of SIPSC in Baybay City. He emphasized that this milestone paves the way for further progress in the city, enhancing the quality of life for its constituents. The Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, and the DILG reaffirmed their strong support and commitment to maintain stable peace and security in Baybay City.

Brigadier General Vestuir commended the city of Baybay and other stakeholders for their unwavering support and commitment in upholding a safe and peaceful environment.

BGen Vestuir also emphasized the cooperation and efforts of local government entities and their communities in achieving SIPSC. "The declaration of Baybay City as a stable internal peace and security condition city signified our hard-earned victory of winning the peace in which some of us offered the ultimate sacrifice to achieve. Achieving SIPSC is just a start of a more brighter and progressive City for Baybayanons”, Vestuir concluded.

CARD RBI opens its 39th branch in Zamboanga del Norte

By EDRIAN B. BANANIA
February 5, 2025

SAN PABLO CITY – CARD MRI Rizal Bank, Inc. (CARD RBI), a microfinance oriented-rural bank under CARD MRI opened its 39th branch in Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte on January 20, 2025.

“This event marks more than just the opening of a new branch; it signifies the opening of new doors to opportunities that will better serve communities, especially those facing social and economic challenges, as well as MSMEs. We aim to provide financial and non-financial products and services,” said CARD RBI President and CEO Ms. Lyneth Derequito.

According to the 2020 LGU Households Survey, Sindangan has a total household population of 26,068, with an average household size of 4.3. CARD RBI Sindangan Branch is now ready to meet the banking needs of the local communities, particularly the microentrepreneurs.

Sindangan is known for its thriving agribusiness sector, which includes fish and seaweed processing. These industries play a vital role in the economy of Zamboanga del Norte, a province recognized for its diverse agribusiness activities, such as coconut oil milling, wood processing, and rubber production.

“We are committed to reaching more communities and MSMEs through branch expansion. Our goal is to offer essential services and implement community-based development programs to address the various needs of the people,” Chairman of the Board Mr. Aristeo A. Dequito said.

The Bank

CARD RBI caters to various financial needs of its clients as it offers a wide range of banking products and services such as micro and SME loans, savings, and remittance services to ensure that all socioeconomically challenged families in the country have access to affordable and quality financial services.

The opening ceremony was attended by CARD MRI Rizal Bank President and CEO Ms. Lyneth L. Derequito, CARD RBI Executive Vice President Ms. Juliana B. De Leon, together with Chairman of the Board Mr. Aristeo A. Dequito, CARD RBI Former President and Board Director Ms. Elma B. Valenzuela, Sindangan Mayor Hon. Rosendo “Dodoy” S. Labadlabad, Vice Mayor Hon. Nilo Boy Sy, and other CARD MRI officers and staff.

This new branch is part of CARD RBI's mission to promote financial inclusion in the country. The new branch is located in Poblacion, Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte.

As of December 2024, CARD RBI has grown significantly with over P7.5 billion in assets and more than 330 offices nationwide, serving over 820,000 clients.

8ID commander vows safe and secure National and Local Elections in EV

By DPAO, 8ID PA
February 5, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry “Stormtroopers” Division of the Philippine Army, in partnership with various law enforcement agencies and government offices, took part in the Ceremonial Solidarity Pact Signing for the 2025 National and Local Elections, held at Camp Sec. Ruperto Kangleon, Police Regional Office VIII, in Palo, Leyte, on February 5, 2025.

Key attendees included Major General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Commander of 8ID; Police Brigadier General Jay R. Cumigad, Regional Director of PRO8; and Atty. Remlane M. Tambuang, Regional Director of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Regional Office VIII. Representatives from the Coast Guard District Eastern Visayas, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) VIII, the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) VIII, and the Department of Education (DepEd) VIII were also present.

During the ceremony, all participating agencies made a collective pledge to enhance inter-agency collaboration to ensure peaceful and orderly elections. This commitment highlights the solidarity among Filipinos to achieve secure, accurate, free, and fair elections while upholding the integrity of democracy and protecting the electoral process.

In his message of support, Maj. Gen. Orio emphasized the shared mission of the 8ID and its partner agencies for the upcoming elections.

“As we come together to sign this Solidarity Pact, we are not just affixing signatures – we are affirming a solemn pledge to safeguard the very essence of democracy. This gathering is a powerful reminder that regardless of our roles in society, we share one mission: to ensure that the voice of the people is heard, protected, and respected in the 2025 National and Local Elections,” said Maj. Gen. Orio.

He also assures the people in Eastern Visayas that the Philippine Army will continue to stand as protectors of peace, guardians of democracy, and defenders of every Filipino's right to choose their leaders without fear or coercion.

“Let this moment inspire us all to lead with courage, integrity, and unity. Together, we will ensure an electoral process that honors the will of the people and strengthens the foundation of our nation,” he added.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) plan to deploy a total of 10,000 personnel to secure the elections across Eastern Visayas.

Labor Group slam government for abandoning PhilHealth members in P89.9 billion PhilHealth fund transfer

Press Release
February 3, 2025

QUEZON CITY – Public Services Labor Independent Confederation (PSLINK) expresses outrage at the government’s abandonment of its commitment to attain Universal Healthcare (UHC) by diverting P60 billion worth of PhilHealth funds to the National Government.

As the Supreme Court hears the petitions for certiorari against the transfer of PhilHealth’s reserve funds tomorrow, February 4, we note that by diverting PhilHealth’s reserve funds in the guise of “excess,” the government has left direct contributors, or formally employed workers, many of whom are minimum wage earners themselves, the sole burden of funding healthcare of all PhilHealth members.

To make matters worse, PhilHealth’s claims of “excess funds” are absurd, given their inability to expand benefits and lower out-of-pocket payments, and the increase in premium contribution rates for direct contributors implemented in early 2024. Members should not be penalized for PhilHealth’s inefficiency.

This was exacerbated when Congress defunded PhilHealth and gave it a zero budget for 2025. This is gross negligence and a debasement of the social contract underpinning PhilHealth as a social health insurance program, which states that the government must subsidize the premium contributions of those who cannot afford to pay.

We are also alarmed at several recent anecdotes of PhilHealth indirect contributors being turned away at hospitals, a direct violation of section 9 of the UHC Act which states that “failure to pay premiums shall not prevent the enjoyment of any Program benefits.” We are concerned that these anecdotes of patients being turned away may be a result of the defunding of PhilHealth.

PSLINK has raised serious concerns, alleging that the systematic and deliberate defunding and mismanagement of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) are part of a calculated strategy to pave the way for its eventual privatization. The organization claims that these actions are designed to shift PhilHealth from its current public service mandate towards a profit-driven model, potentially undermining the accessibility and affordability of healthcare for millions of Filipinos.

Lastly, we express grave concern over the fact that the sin tax funds from 2023 and 2024, which, according to Republic Act 11346 or the Sin Tax Law, should be allocated towards PhilHealth for Universal Healthcare, were not given to PhilHealth in their entirety.

We demand the government to give the Filipino people what they are rightfully due under the law, and to not make them beg for the right to free, accessible, and quality healthcare. Ang kalusugan ay karapatan, at hindi utang na loob.

Arms cache unearthed, soldier sacrifices life in pursuit of lasting peace in EV

By DPAO, 8ID PA
February 3, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – Government forces successfully unearthed an arms cache belonging to the New People’s Army (NPA) in the hinterlands of Brgy. Buak Daku, Sogod, Southern Leyte last February 2, 2025.

The 14th Infantry "Avenger" Battalion, Philippine Army as part of its escalated operations to dismantle the region's dwindling NPA forces. The arms cache included one M16 rifle, one short magazine, and subversive materials.

The success of the said operation and the discovery of the arms cache was the result of the continuous dialogue and consultations conducted to the former rebels and part of the ongoing operations targeting the remnants of Island Committee LEVOX, which operates in the area. The 802nd Infantry Brigade (802IBde) of the 8th Infantry Division, has been leading efforts to weaken the remaining NPA elements in Leyte Island.

Meanwhile, troops from the 801st Infantry Brigade while conducting Focused Military Operations encountered members of Yakal Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Browser, Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee in the hinterlands of Barangay Calapi, Motiong, Samar. The encounter resulted in the seizure of assorted war materiel, medical supplies and personal belongings.

In a separate incident, Corporal Bobby Barocaboc heroically offered the ultimate sacrifice while serving the people of Eastern Visayas during an armed encounter with CTG in the hinter parts of Barangay San Roque, Matuguinao, Samar.

Cpl. Barocaboc was deployed as part of the troops securing the community to facilitate the delivery of social and basic services in the community especially in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).

Maj.Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio extends his sympathies to the family of the fallen soldier.

“Corporal Barocaboc has paid an ultimate sacrifice for the people of Eastern Visayas. His death fuels us to continue what we have started. The military will never cease in pursuing the remaining insurgents for us to achieve lasting peace and progress in the community,” Maj.Gen. Orio said.

Maj.Gen. Orio also encourages active CTG members to avail and take advantage of the National Amnesty Program offered by the government. They may coordinate with their relatives or local chief executives to arrange for their safe passage and formalize their application for amnesty.

DPWH Samar 2nd DEO discuss ROW issues with barangay officials and municipal mayors of Samar

Press Release
January 30, 2025

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar 2nd District Engineering Office (DEO), headed by District Engineer Herminio Gulmatico, attended a meeting with barangay officials and municipal mayors from various LGUs within the Samar 1st and 2nd Congressional Districts. The meeting was hosted by the highly esteemed, resourceful, and hardworking Governor of Samar Province, Hon. Sharee Ann T. Tan.

The purpose of the gathering was to discuss and seek resolutions for various Right of Way (ROW) issues and concerns that are essential for the successful implementation of infrastructure projects for FY2025, specifically those related to Daang Maharlika. The dialogue aimed to address key challenges that may affect the timely completion of these projects and to ensure the smooth flow of the government's infrastructure programs in the region.

The collaboration among local government units, the DPWH, and the office of Governor Tan continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to resolving issues that will enable the timely and efficient progress of vital projects, ultimately benefitting the people of Samar.

HWPL, DepEd Cavite, 8,000 participants gather to celebrate 11th anniversary of the Peace Day at Aguinaldo Shrine

Press Release
January 24, 2025

KAWIT, Cavite – The Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), an international peace organization in partnership with the Department of Education Schools Division Office of Cavite - Kawit Sub-Office, celebrated the 11th Anniversary of the January 24th HWPL Peace Day at Aguinaldo Shrine, Kawit, Cavite.

The January 24 HWPL Peace Day declared by the Province of Maguindanao has been commemorated annually since the Mindanao Peace Agreement was made by the local government and civil society leaders on January 24, 2014. With the theme, "Honoring Our Heritage, Uniting for Global Peace: Empowering the Youth to Champion the DPCW Towards a War-Free World," this momentous event brought together 8,000 participants including teachers, parents, students, government and security officials for a grand Peace Walk traversing Tanggulan Street to Tirona Highway.

The celebration seeks to foster unity, honor shared cultural heritage, and rally support for the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) through a Thumbprint Flag, measuring 40 inches by 60 inches, made by students from the 13 schools of Kawit District.

The DPCW is a document with 10 articles and 38 clauses advocating for international cooperation, conflict resolution, and sustainable peace, which will be a roadmap for global peace, through its submission to the United Nations. Not only from nations, intergovernmental organizations, global leaders and individuals around the world, DPCW has gained in the form of resolutions from Cotabato city, Municipality of Kapalong in the Province of Davao del Norte, and Davao City.

HWPL Chairman Lee Man-hee sent his message to the Peace Walk attendees saying:

“Within each of our hearts gathered here today, there are blooming flowers of peace. To ensure that these flowers of peace never wither, what must we do moving forward? How can we continue to sustain the history of peace in the Philippines eternally? The answer lies in education. Education is a powerful tool that nurtures the minds and hearts of individuals while instilling the values of love and harmony.”

HWPL aims to focus on spreading the culture of peace through HWPL peace education in every country and establish peace clubs as a platform for youth to be peace ambassadors of these nations.

The Aguinaldo Shrine stands as a monumental site in Philippine history, being the location where the country’s independence was first declared. By hosting this year’s Peace Day Celebration at this revered landmark, the event bridges the past and the present, honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom while envisioning a future free from war and conflict.

In conjunction with the Peace Day anniversary celebration, HWPL through its youth wing, International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) also conducted a Youth Empowerment Peace Class on January 14-15, equipping 130 Peace Club Officers with the tools and inspiration to be active peace advocates. The oath-taking for these officers took place during the program today.

It was during this activity when Grade 5 pupil Erhieca Francais Caccam, of Batong Dalig Elementary School in Kawit, Cavite has written an open letter to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.

“Even though the world has many problems, I believe we can solve them if we listen to each other and work together. I think the Philippines can show other countries how people can love peacefully and help each other no matter what their differences,” part of the letter reads.

This year’s theme underscores the importance of heritage and youth empowerment in achieving global peace. The active participation of educators and students reflects the power of education in shaping a peaceful and united global community. By fostering a deeper appreciation for shared history and engaging the youth as champions of the DPCW, the event aspires to inspire collective efforts towards a war-free world.

NMP launches the Philippine Maritime Manpower Factbook portal

Press Release
January 24, 2025

TACLOBAN CITY – The National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) unveiled the Philippine Maritime Manpower Factbook (PMMF) portal, a comprehensive web portal designed to provide consolidated, relevant, and up-to-date data and statistics on the maritime industry, during its soft launching on 20 December 2024 via Zoom conference.

The PMMF portal is a centralized hub offering data on Filipino seafarers, including employment statistics, industry trends, training programs, and regulatory compliance updates. It is aimed at stakeholders across the maritime sector, including shipping companies, manning agencies, academic institutions, and government bodies, to ensure informed decision-making and strategic planning. The information is collected from identified primary data sources, including government agencies, research studies, and published reports. Through this interactive platform, industry stakeholders can easily access data to support policy formulation, strategic planning, and program development.

"The Philippine maritime industry is the backbone of global shipping, and our seafarers play a vital role in international trade. The Factbook Portal reflects our dedication to transparency, innovation, and excellence in maritime services.," Executive Director Victor Del Rosario highlighted during the ceremony.

This initiative paves way for attaining the inception of its maritime resource center as stipulated under Republic Act 11641 (Creation of the DMW) and reiterated in the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers - Republic Act 12021 for NMP to develop and maintain a Resource Center for Filipino Seafarers that includes a database of seafarers and related statistics and information to aid in evidence-based policy making and program development.

During the walk-through, key features of the PMMF portal were show in detail. Alongside the statistics on seafarers and vessels profile, another notable aspect of the portal given spotlight is the access to the profile of working women in the maritime industry.

"The said web portal addresses long-standing challenges, such as the absence of a centralized and regularly updated maritime database. With the collaborative efforts of our partners – Maritime Industry Authority, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Migrant Workers, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Ports Authority, Central Bank of the Philippines – we are fulfilling a crucial mandate to institutionalize data generation and ensure its accessibility.", Director Del Rosario added.