House endorses 2026 DMW budget, eyes more fund for NMP’s modernization

By National Maritime Polytechnic
October 3, 2025

QUEZON CITY – The FY 2026 proposed budget of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) will now move to the next deliberation phase after scrutiny in the House of Representatives on Thursday, October 2, 2025.

Under the DMW’s budget next year, the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) will receive an allocation of P407.578-million, reflecting a significant increase of 78 percent from its P228.402 million approved budget for the current year.

As part of its multi-year modernization plan, the bulk of NMP’s budget next year will fund the upgrading of the facilities within its training complex in Tacloban City, particularly its two dormitory buildings and construction of another training pool.

During the budget hearing, Representatives Sarah Elago of Gabriela and Raul Daza of Northern Samar 1st District manifested support for NMP and pushed for the agency’s full modernization as the only state-run maritime training and research institution in the country.

At present, it offers a total of 56 maritime training courses both mandatory and non-mandatory. Of these, NMP already developed 22 out of 40 Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) courses prescribed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), where 21 are currently offered, with one additional course set to be opened upon accreditation by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).

NMP Executive Director Victor Del Rosario underscored that prevailing challenge lies in addressing the critical gaps in training equipment and facilities necessary to develop and offer the remaining mandatory courses. In response, he emphasized that NMP already taken significant strides in modernizing its facilities and resources.

In 2024, the agency secured P52-million for the acquisition of state-of-the-art simulators, including the Full Mission Bridge Simulator, the Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator, and an upgrading of the Engine Room Simulator to its latest software version.

For the current year, an additional Php63-million has been allocated for the procurement of specialized training equipment and facility improvements. This is over and above the ongoing infrastructure projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways, which cover road network improvements and the rehabilitation of NMP’s multipurpose gymnasium, as well as its school and training buildings.

Looking ahead for the next fiscal year, NMP seeks additional funding on top of the endorsed budget under DMW. This includes the proposed P46.24-million for the acquisition of various maritime training equipment and P125.6-million construction of a two-story training building with roof deck.

Such investments are vital to ensure compliance with MARINA’s one-to-one trainee-to-equipment ratio and to enable NMP to fully develop and deliver all 40 STCW-mandated courses.

In support of these initiatives, House Majority Floor Leader Representative Sandro Marcos, committed to assist DMW-NMP in advancing its developmental plans.

As the country’s premier government maritime training and research institution, NMP reaffirms its commitment to develop and offer all 40 STCW mandatory courses by 2027, thereby ensuring that the Philippines sustain its position as the world’s leading source of competent and highly skilled seafarers.

Del Rosario likewise joined top officials of DMW led by Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac during the budget hearing, alongside Representative Johanne Monich G. Bautista of TRABAHO Partylist, who served as the House Budget Sponsor.

BRAP mobile civil registrations:

Continuing efforts to register unregistered births in the province of Leyte

By PSA Leyte
October 3, 2025

TACLOBAN CITY – The PSA Leyte Birth Registration Assistance Project (BRAP) Team through its Birth Registration Coordinators (BRCs), joined the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Alangalang, Leyte, through the headship of Hon. Mayor Lovell Anne M. Yu-Castro, and its Local Civil Registry Office (LCRO) headed by OIC-Municipal Civil Registrar Nelisa R. Catindoy, together with the legal team of Board Member of the 1st District of Leyte, Atty. Ronnan Christian M. Reposar, in the conduct of the Mobile Civil Registration in Brgy. Bugho, Alangalang, Leyte, last 29-30 September 2025, as one of the services offered during the Munisipyo ha Barangay spearheaded by the LGU.

The BRCs assisted the LCRO in the screening of attachments, and preparation of the Certificates of Live Birth (COLBs) of the identified individuals whose births are not yet registered, while Atty. Reposar and his team were the ones preparing and/or notarizing for free, the needed Affidavits anent the delayed registration of birth of the potential registrants. A total of 64 COLBs for local and Out-of-Town registration were prepared during the two-day mobile registration. Subsequently, once the required posting period lapses and/or the birth records are already registered with the respective LCROs, the same will be forwarded to the BRCs for electronic endorsement and eventual provision of the first free copies of the late registrants’ COLBs in Security Paper (SecPa).

This second semester of 2025, the PSA Leyte has already joined to a total of seven (7) Mobile Civil Registrations spearheaded by the LGUs of Calubian, Matag-ob, and San Isidro, through their respective LCROs, with more to conduct and assist to towards the end of the year.

As of 01 October 2025, there are already 8,224 late registrations in the Province of Leyte made possible through BRAP, and the efforts of the LGUs in the Province, through their respective LCROs, proactive partners in government service, and the PSA Leyte BRAP Team. More records are expected to be late registered as the Team is untiringly facilitating local registrations/endorsements, and Out-of-Town Applications for Delayed Registration of Birth, on top of efforts to encourage more the LGUs and LCROs to continue supporting and taking advantage of the program, which in turn, assist and provide the public, their basic yet most pertinent proof of personality.

Army sustains aid in Central Visayas earthquake aftermath

By OACPA
October 2, 2025

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Philippine Army (PA) continues to send and mobilize troops from September 30, 2025 up to this day for humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) efforts following a 6.9-magnitude earthquake that hit Cebu. The Army’s HADR units for Search, Rescue, and Retrieval remain operational, working alongside local government's disaster units and offices across Bogo City, San Remigio, Daanbantayan, and Medellin in Cebu.

As of today's report, combined forces from the 53rd Engineer Brigade, Joint Task Group Cebu under the 3rd Infantry Division, and standby troops from PA Headquarters Disaster Response Units amount to 587 troops for Search, Rescue, and Retrieval, Roving Support, and Clearing Operations. Army responders have assisted in the safe evacuation of 292 families in the municipalities of Carmen, Consolacion, and Sogod, Cebu.

The Army works tirelessly to assist partner agencies, local government units, and volunteer stakeholders in the swift and coordinated disaster response efforts in the most affected areas in Cebu to hasten the province's recovery and rebuilding efforts.

229 troops commence Scout Ranger Course

By OACPA
September 30, 2025

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – A new batch of future “Musangs” composed of 229 soldiers commenced the 10-month Scout Ranger Course (SRC) Class 228-2025 in an opening ceremony at Camp Pablo Tecson, San Miguel, Bulacan on September 29, 2025.

The SRC trains soldiers to become highly proficient and lethal direct-action combatants focusing on small-unit tactics, combat tracking and direct-action to neutralize adversaries with the elements of surprise and speed.

Army Vice Commander Maj. Gen. Efren F. Morados challenged the future Scout Rangers, along with trainees from Physical Training Trainer's Course Class 40-2025 and Pekiti Tirsia Kali Course Class 27-2025, to do their best.

The Army leadership lauds the First Scout Ranger Regiment of the Army's Special Forces Command for producing generations of “Musangs” who have demonstrated skill, stamina and spirit through the years and have proven their combat excellence in the battlefield. The SRC and key specialization courses offered by the Regiment also reinforce the command guidance of Army Chief Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete on the holistic human capital development of soldiers, the organization’s most valuable resource.

Orientation on latest updates on CRVS and NID among homeless senior citizens, orphans and office staff

By PSA-Leyte
September 29, 2025

PALO, Leyte – The Philippine Statistic Authority (PSA) Leyte conducted a meaningful Orientation on the Latest Updates regarding Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) and the National ID (NID) system held on September 8,2025 at the Pope Francis Complex Palo, Leyte for Seniors, Orphans, and staff. The event was organized by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Leyte as part of its Annual Social Responsibility Program.

Before the official start of the orientation, a Holy Mass was celebrated at the Complex Chapel in observance of the Institution’s Anniversary. Senior Citizens, Orphans, Staff, and PSA representatives attended the mass, adding a spiritual tone to the day’s activities.

The Orientation proper featured discussions on the Birth Registration Assistance Project (BRAP) and recent updates to the National ID program. Resource persons Sheryl Ann A. Jamisola Chief Statistical Specialist of PSA Leyte and Rodolfo R. Novillo Jr. Registration Officer II/Head NID Section facilitated the session, engaging the audience in informative presentations and a dynamic open forum.

Among the staff, Mr. John Michael Borce, HR Officer raised relevant questions regarding Civil Registration Records, particularly issues with Live Birth Certificates and National ID, reflecting common documentation challenges faced by vulnerable sectors.

The closing message was delivered by the resident priest Fr. Thaddeus Kim, KBJ, who commended the partnership and expressed gratitude for the services extended to the community.

Following the orientation, the PSA team distributed food packs and essential goods to the Senior Citizens and Orphans, as part of it’s ongoing social responsibility efforts. These donations were intended to support the day-to-day needs of the residents and strengthen the PSA commitments to inclusive public service.

This event is part of PSA’s yearly initiative to reach and promote awareness of vital Civil Registration Services, and ensure that every Filipino has access to legal identity and social inclusion.

PSA Leyte extends National ID registration in Tacloban through house-to-house services

By PSA-Leyte
September 29, 2025

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Statistic Authority (PSA) - Leyte’s Registration Team implemented home-visit National Identification System (National ID) registration last Saturday, September 6, 2025 to reach bedridden individuals and elderly residents from Brgy. 93 (Bagacay) Tacloban City.

As part of the activity, the team successfully registered ten (10) bedridden senior citizens, providing them with the opportunity to secure their National ID without leaving their homes.

PSA Leyte extends its sincere appreciation to the Local Government Unit of Tacloban through its Local Civil Registrar Office (LCRO), as well as the Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs) of Brgy. 93 (Bagacay), for their invaluable assistance in identifying and coordinating with target registrants, ensuring the smooth conduct of the activity.

Through this activity, PSA Leyte reinforces its commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in the National ID registration, guaranteeing that every eligible Filipino regardless of age, health condition, or location can access this vital government service.

The National ID aims to provide a valid proof of identity for all Filipinos and resident aliens, streamlining public and private transactions and promoting financial inclusion, particularly for those in remote and marginalized communities.

Not all Filipinos are given the privilege to have their National ID registered as some citizens face challenges such as illnesses, old age, lack of awareness. Through outreach like this, the PSA aims to provide easier access and equal opportunities for all residents to be included in the national database.

Furthermore, the PSA encourages family members, barangay officials and local residents to continue supporting the agency for easy identification for those citizens who need special registration so no one will be left unregistered.

PSA Eastern Visayas recognized as Best Region in the Philippine Identification System and bags other awards

By PSA-8
September 24, 2025

QUEZON CITY – The Philippine Statistics Authority Regional Statistical Services Office VIII (PSA RSSO 8) for the second time was named Best Region in the implementation of the Philippine Identification System in the country for 2024 PSA Awards Ceremony held at Luxent Hotel in Quezon City.

In 2023, PSA RSSO 08 also bagged the same award being able to meet the targets of the project thereby exemplary gaining lead in the criteria for the various services and programs. The office also received the 2nd Place post both in the Information and Dissemination as well as Partnership and Linkages categories.

On the other hand, PSA provincial offices received the following awards: PSO Biliran, 1st Place in the Top 5 Provincial Statistical Offices Best in Statistical Planning and Coordination; 15th Place in the Top 15 Provincial Offices.

PSO Eastern Samar, 4th Place in the Top 5 Provincial Statistical Offices Best in Statistical Planning and Coordination.

The PSA Awards is an annual event treated as an incentive system aimed to ensure timely delivery of quality outputs in the implementation of PSA’s mandated activities. Likewise, it is intended to increase the PSA’s visibility among its stakeholders in delivering high-quality and world class statistical products and services, civil registration and inclusive Identification System.

Key NPA leader surrenders, yields firearms to 8ID troops

By DPAO, 8ID PA
September 23, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division facilitates the surrender of the vice squad leader of Squad 3, Regional Security Force (RSF), Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) to government forces on September 19, 2025, at Barangay Magsaysay, Lope de Vega, Northern Samar.

The 8ID’s relentless focus military operations complemented with Localized Peace Engagement (LPE) efforts persuaded the said former CTG to return to the folds of the law. Additionally, the CTG’s struggle for survival, the loss of community support and the pleas of his family for a peaceful life fueled his decision.

Following his surrender, he revealed the location of two arms caches in the vicinity of Barangay San Isidro, Matuguinao, Samar unearthing one M16 rifle, one Caliber .45 pistol, and two magazines.

Major General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Commander of the 8ID, lauded his decision and stated, “The decision of this key personality to embrace a peaceful life and his cooperation in recovering the hidden firearms are a strong blow to the EVRPC. This proves that our comprehensive and decisive military approaches and strengthened local government partnerships have effectively weakened the EVRPC’s operational capabilities.”

The 8ID continues to call on those still embracing the senseless armed struggle to return to the folds of the law and be with their families. The Enhanced Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and other intervention programs of our government can rebuild their lives and help contribute to lasting peace and development in Lope de Vega.

PSA ties up with DILG in fostering National ID updates reaching out to EVSU studes

By PSA-8
September 23, 2025

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Statistics Authority Regional Statistical Services Office VIII (PSA RSSO 8) in collaboration with Department of Interior an Local Government Regional Office VIII conducted the first leg of Anti-Illegal Drug Symposium among students and faculty members of the Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU).

Registration Officer III and National ID (NID) Regional Focal Person, Marife R. Molon presented civil registration and NID topics along with the mandates and services of PSA. She shared the importance and uses of the civil registry documents an NID for the students as tools in the achievement of their goals and desired professions in the future. She shared and encouraged the management of EVSU and other national government agencies present to avail the National ID Authentication Service (NIDAS) in her discussion stressing the benefits of the integration.

PSA RSSO 8 will continue its partnership with DILG on this endeavor reaching out to our younger generation thru information dissemination drive.

WHO disenfranchises the public from tobacco control conference as registration barriers reach "insane" levels

Via GLOBE NEWSWIRE
September 22, 2025

MANILA – The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) today condemned the World Health Organisation's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) for erecting deliberate barriers to prevent public participation in the upcoming Conference of the Parties (COP11) scheduled for November in Geneva.

Executive Coordinator Nancy Loucas has accused the WHO FCTC of implementing an "insane system" for public registration that was designed to exclude rather than include legitimate stakeholders. The registration process was publicised just last week despite being available since February. It requires participants to navigate complex documentation requirements including passport details, a photograph, a letter of intent, and a comprehensive curriculum vitae. This effectively excludes consumer advocates as their advocacy is not related to their professional careers. The barriers represent a broader pattern of exclusion that has characterised the WHO FCTC process since its inception.

Unlike climate change conferences which have granted observer status to over 3,000 non-governmental organisations, the FCTC has approved just 26 NGOs for observer status. No consumer advocacy groups representing people who smoke or use safer nicotine products have ever been granted access. Advocates have been been repeatedly excluded from WHO FCTC meetings despite expertise in tobacco harm reduction policy through lived experience.

The WHO FCTC operates under a restrictive interpretation of Article 5.3, originally designed to prevent tobacco industry interference. However, it has been systematically misapplied to exclude legitimate consumer advocacy groups and researchers who support harm reduction approaches. The secretive nature of FCTC proceedings contrasts sharply with other international treaty processes. Climate conferences facilitate broad stakeholder engagement, while tobacco control meetings have progressively excluded media and public observers from all but opening ceremonies. The proceedings are not publicly streamed in full and access is controlled through an opaque accreditation process that favours organisations aligned with prohibitionist tobacco control ideology.

CAPHRA is calling for fundamental reform to ensure meaningful stakeholder engagement. Nancy Loucas has demanded the organisation grant formal observer status to consumer advocacy groups and abandon its ideological opposition to evidence-based harm reduction strategies. "The WHO cannot claim to take a human rights approach while silencing the very people their policies affect".

With 10 days between public notification of registration and the deadline for registration deadline, CAPHRA is urging all stakeholders to recognise the fundamental flaws in the current system. Meaningful progress in reducing tobacco-related harm can only be achieved through democratic participation. This must include the voices of consumers who have successfully transitioned to safer alternatives.

September 21 anti-corruption protest supported by Int’l Human Rights Coalition

Corruption, state terrorism mar NTF-ELCAC as billions vanish in fake projects

Press Release
September 20, 2025

MANILA – “The Marcos Jr. administration must be held accountable for the massive theft of funds for flood control projects since July 2022,” said the International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines (ICHRP) today as it strongly supported the protest planned for Sunday, September 21. “Figures indicate that 60 per cent of project budgets have been stolen, and it is impossible that Malacanang itself has not taken a share,” said ICHRP Chairperson, Peter Murphy.

“September 21 marks the 53rd anniversary of the Martial Law declaration of President Marcos Sr., which allowed him to plunder the country at will for the next 14 years,” said Murphy. “This connection between authoritarian rule and grand theft of public funds should spur the people to demand a massive cleanout of contractors and politicians involved.”

In the third week of July this year, the combined impact of the monsoon, Tropical Storm Wipha, and Typhoon Co-may, caused widespread flooding, displacing tens of thousands, and resulted in at least six fatalities demonstrating that the massive spending on flood controls has been a serious failure.

During 2023-25 the Marcos Jr administration approved over P1 trillion (USD17.58 billion) in flood control projects. “Far from being a commendable response to the climate crisis, this huge new public spending has been another opportunity for the wealthy to plunder the public purse,” said Murphy.

“Under Estrada it was illegal gambling, under Arroyo it was mega projects, under Aquino III it was the Pork Barrel, now it is flood control,” said Murphy. “The wealthy elite in the Philippines are endlessly creative at enriching themselves illegally, but the great majority of the people are left in grinding poverty with overseas migration the main option to sustain life,” he said. “This is a massive violation of the human rights of the Filipino people.”

NTF-ELCAC: ghost projects

The Barangay Development Program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) has also been exposed as a scheme to channel billions of pesos into the pockets of military generals and their cronies through anomalous infrastructure projects.

Reports during budget hearings have shown that none of the 885 NTF-ELCAC barangay projects for 2024 have been completed, yet billions continue to be allocated to its budget. This systematic plunder of public resources comes at the expense of genuine social services desperately needed by Filipino women and their families – healthcare, education, livelihood programs, and others.

Finally, ICHRP reiterates “Kurakot managot!” (The corrupt, be made accountable!). The rights groups notes that the massive theft through flood control projects and through the NTF-ELCAC “pacification“ programs share the characteristic of impunity that enables the rampant state terrorism, red-tagging, and violation of human rights that marks Filipino reality in 2025, and hark back to the formal Marital Law period that was never really abolished.