CARD Bank opens 2nd Islamic banking branch in Marawi City

By EDRIAN B. BANANIA
December 15, 2025

SAN PABLO CITY – CARD Bank officially opened its second Islamic banking branch in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, on November 24, 2025. The Marawi Islamic branch is designed to provide financial services accessible to all, in accordance with Shari’ah principles, and to address the needs of Muslim communities.

The opening of this branch follows the successful establishment of CARD Bank’s first Islamic banking branch in Cotabato City on January 22, 2024, which paved the way for broader financial inclusion in areas with significant Muslim populations.

According to CARD MRI Founder and CARD Bank Chairman Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip, “The opening of this branch is more than just the construction of a bank. It is proof that every corner of the country deserves services that meet the dreams and needs of its communities. In BARMM, we have witnessed the courage, faith, and hope of our Muslim brothers and sisters. It is only fitting that we bring services here that foster development rooted in their culture and beliefs.”

Shari’ah-compliant services

The branch will strictly implement Shari’ah guidelines to ensure that every transaction aligns with religious principles. It offers various Wadiah deposit accounts for safe, transparent, and reliable savings, including Wadiah Basic Savings, Wadiah Regular Savings, and Wadiah ATM Savings.

To meet livelihood needs, the branch provides Shari’ah-compliant financing products, including Murabahah, Mudarabah, and Musharakah for Micro-Agri and Micro-Enterprise, as well as Murabahah 2 for Supplemental Commodity Financing. Ijarah is also offered for motorcycle and vehicle leasing. All products are designed to support clients’ livelihoods without conflicting with their religious beliefs.

Underscoring the significance of this expansion, Bangsamoro Board of Investments Chairman (BBOI) Mohamad Omar Pasigan emphasized, “The opening of the second Shari’ah-compliant branch in BARMM is clear proof that there is space for services that truly respond to the needs of the Muslim community. It creates greater opportunities for families and entrepreneurs in the region.”

Expanding financial inclusion in Muslim communities

CARD Bank’s move into Islamic banking responds to the call of Muslim communities for financial services that reflect their faith. In BARMM, many families remain unbanked due to the lack of culturally and religiously aligned services.

Through Shari’ah-compliant banking, women, small entrepreneurs, and Muslim households gain equal access to safe, fair, and affordable financial services. It is a crucial step toward more resilient and sustainable livelihoods in the region.

To ensure the proper and sensitive implementation of Islamic banking, CARD Bank collaborated with Islamic finance and Shari’ah advisory experts. With their guidance, the services are reliable, compliant, and respectful of clients’ culture and beliefs. This collaboration is part of the bank’s long-term goal to provide community-centered services.

The Islamic Banking branch began operations with 1,307 clients, of whom 1,246 have financing. These clients were originally CARD, Inc. Paglambo clients, who later transitioned to Islamic banking.

According to CARD Bank President and CEO Marivic M. Austria, “This second Islamic banking branch proves that inclusive development is possible when services are brought closer to communities. By engaging with leaders and families in BARMM, we believe that every Filipino, regardless of religion or origin, has the right to progress. It is what we continue to advocate.”

The branch’s opening was highlighted by an opening prayer and ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by CARD MRI Founder and CARD Bank Chairman Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip, BSP Senior Assistant Governor Atty. Arifa Ala, Bangsamoro Board of Investment Chairman Mohamad Omar Pasigan, CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo Dequito, CARD Bank President and CEO Marivic M. Austria, consultants, institutional heads, staff, and clients.

The new branch is located along Narciso Ramos Highway, Biaba Damag, Marawi City. Aside from Islamic financing, CARD Bank continues to provide not only financial products in its conventional banking branches but also access to microinsurance, business development, marketing support, education, health programs, and other services for Filipino families.

Stormtroopers recover firearms in consecutive Northern Samar clashes

By DPAO, 8ID PA
December 13, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division engaged in successive firefights against fleeing Communist-NPA-Terrorist (CNT) elements in the hinterlands of Barangay Osmeña, Palapag, Northern Samar, on December 11, 2025, successfully recovering two firearms.

The operations are part of ongoing efforts to locate CNT members who escaped after the November 29 clash in Barangay Nipa, Palapag. Before these encounters, the armed group had threatened civilians by planting IHL-banned anti-personnel mines along farm-to-market roads frequently used by local residents.

The first encounter took place at 11:00 a.m. when troops engaged armed CNTs. A brief but intense gunfight ensued, forcing the CNTs to retreat northwest and leaving behind an M653 rifle and personal belongings.

Just 13 minutes later, at 11:13 a.m., troops engaged fleeing CNTs once again, recovering a .45 caliber pistol and ammunition.

The success of these operations relied on the essential support of the local community; their cooperation has been vital in tracking and neutralizing threats. The remaining CNT members who choose to surrender are assured of humane treatment and full support through government reintegration programs that help rebuild their lives and allow them to return to the community with dignity.

8ID crushes insurgency in Silvino Lobos, 1 CNT killed

By DPAO, 8ID PA
December 11, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division dealt a significant blow against the elements of Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Emporium of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) after an armed encounter in the hinterlands of Barangay Gusaran, Silvino Lobos, Northern Samar, early morning of December 10, 2025.

The operation was launched following persistent civilian reports that Communist-NPA-Terrorists (CNTs) were conducting extortion activities, coercing farmers into surrendering portions of their harvest - acts that undermine livelihoods and violate the rights and safety of the community.

Responding to these reports, troops of the 19th Infantry (Commando) Battalion conducted a security patrol to validate the information. As soldiers approached the CNT encampment, they were fired upon by the armed group, prompting the troops to retaliate in accordance with the Rules of Engagement and International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

A brief but intense 15-minute firefight ensued, resulting in one CNT killed and the seizure of one M16 rifle along with various war materiel. The remaining CNT members fled, and follow-on forces have been deployed to pursue the retreating remnants. Clearing operations continue to secure the area and ensure that the terrorist group cannot regain foothold or intimidate farmers.

In its statement, the 8ID emphasized that the operation was deliberate, intelligence-driven, and founded on the duty of the Armed Forces to protect civilians from criminal acts, extortion, and armed coercion.

The Command reaffirms its unwavering commitment in dismantling terrorist groups, safeguarding communities, and restoring a climate of peace and security necessary for local development. It likewise urges the public to stay vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities - an essential contribution in preventing CNT resurgence and sustaining the gains of peace in Northern Samar.

Female PDL’s in Tacloban City jail avail national ID registration services

By PSA Leyte
December 9, 2025

TACLOBAN CITY – In support of efforts to make the National Identification System widely accessible, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Leyte in coordination with the Tacloban City Jail Female Dormitory, successfully conducted National Registration Services for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) on December 8, 2025 in Brgy. 25, Tacloban City.

The activity was held following the request of the Female Dormitory Warden SJO4 Judith B. Balanay to provide easier access to government services and ensure that all PDL’s are properly documented under the national identification system.

During the activity, a total of 11 PDLs completed their National ID registration and issued NID in paper form, while 4 individuals updated their demographic information. In addition, 37 National ID in paper form were issued to female PDLs, ensuring they now possess an official proof of identity that can be used for legal, social, and welfare-related transactions.

Jail officials expressed gratitude to PSA National ID personnel for extending its services to persons deprived of liberty, recognizing the importance of providing them with legal identification as part of their rights and rehabilitation. NID personnel likewise emphasized that the program aims to make the National ID system inclusive and accessible to all sectors of society, including those in custodial settings.

The collaboration highlights the continuous efforts of government agencies to reach vulnerable and marginalized groups and ensure that every Filipino, regardless of circumstance, can benefit from national identification services.

The Tacloban City Jail Female Dormitory affirmed its commitment to supporting programs that promote identity verification, social protection, and reintegration of PDLs into society.

Furthermore, PSA Leyte encourages all unregistered individuals to visit the nearest registration center and take part in this important national initiative.

Global cry for peace echoes in IWPG art competition; Philippines bags gold

Filipino youth shine among 15,932 entries from 40 countries, proving art’s power to promote global peace

By IWPG
December 4, 2025

MANILA – The Philippines has reached a historic milestone after a Filipino student won the country’s first-ever Gold Award in Division 3 at the 7th International Loving-Peace Art Competition organized by the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG). The global competition gathered 15,932 artworks from 40 countries, highlighting young artists shared hope for a peaceful world.

The Gold Award in Division 3 was awarded to Prince R.M.B. Ikan of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo–Bailen Integrated School. His winning artwork depicts a dove and people of different races holding hands, symbolizing unity, harmony, and mutual understanding beyond borders.

“Through simple images and calm colors, this drawing delivers a powerful message for all people to understand each other, not to fight, and to be united as one. Let’s all become messengers of peace,” said Prince Ikan.

Other outstanding Filipino young artists were also recognized on the global stage:

Division 1 – Silver Award: Althea Cleona Q. Dela Rea, Limay Community School

Division 3 – Bronze Award: Anica Jeine Hiso, Kapalong National High School

Division 3 – Bronze Award: Zaijan V. Sumbong, St. Francis National High School

Honorable Mentions:

Rafael Joseph Solis (University of Batangas),

Prince Marlloyd Sualog (Limay Senior High School),

Frances Cyrus Guzman (Limay Senior High School)

The Grand Prize was awarded to Tasfiha Tahsin of Bangladesh for her artwork “The Cry for Peace,” a moving portrayal of a child praying amid war, symbolizing humanity’s deep longing for peace.

The International Loving-Peace Art Competition was created to teach children and youth the true meaning of peace through art. By expressing their ideas of harmony, empathy, and coexistence through drawing, students are empowered to become active builders of peace in their communities and across nations. The competition promotes the practice of peace as a daily lifestyle, not merely an ideal.

“Peace is like life, so we must teach it to the youth. These students will grow up to be the changemakers who contribute to global peace,” said Mr. Soon-kyu Hwang, Head Judge of the competition.

“Children who learn the meaning of peace through art become steadfast seeds, spreading peace in their communities and beyond. They are the true heroes of our time,” said IWPG Chairwoman Na Yeong Jeon.

This year’s theme, “How can we practice peace and make it a reality in our daily lives?”, encouraged young artists around the world to transform their hopes into visual messages of peace.

With this landmark achievement, the Philippines has proudly made its mark on the international peace stage, proving that Filipino youth are not only talented creators but also powerful messengers of peace.

The International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) is a global peace organization registered with the UN ECOSOC and DGC, with 115 branches in 122 countries and partnerships with 800 organizations worldwide. IWPG empowers women and youth through peace education, leadership programs, and advocacy for global peace initiatives such as the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW).

8ID tightens grip on EVRPC: 5 CNTs neutralized, 8 firearms seized amid intensified operations

By DPAO, 8ID PA
December 3, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division tightens its decisive campaign against the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) as combat operations in Northern Samar and sustained pressure in Leyte continue to break the enemy’s will to fight.

This comes after successive armed engagements on November 29, 2025 at Barangay Nipa, Palapag, Northern Samar when troops under the 803rd Infantry (Peacemakers) Brigade hit hard at the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Arctic of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC).

Acting on persistent civilian reports that armed Communist-NPA-Terrorists (CNTs) had been coercing farmers to surrender portions of their crops, government forces launched an assault on a fortified enemy hideout rigged with International Humanitarian Law–banned Anti-Personnel Mines (APMs).

The presence of the IHL-banned explosives compelled the troops to call for precision fire support that resulted in the killing of one CNT. Soldiers subsequently seized five high-powered firearms composed of three M16 rifles and two M14 rifles along with various war materiel after the short but intense firefight.

With CNT’s defensive line shattered, CNTs flee northwards of the encounter site which prompted the 78th Infantry “Warrior” Battalion of the 803rd Infantry (Peacemakers) Brigade to conduct relentless pursuit operations. Government forces successfully engaged the fleeing CNTs in two successive encounters that resulted in another CNT fatality and the seizure of an additional Cal. 45 pistol.

In a separate development, the 93rd Infantry (Bantay Kapayapaan) Battalion under the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade reported the voluntary surrender of three CNTs including one High Value Individual on November 30, 2025. Their surrender is a direct result of the intensified Division-wide combat and security operation to end the insurgency in Eastern Visayas.

The surrenderees also turned over two Cal. 45 pistols. Of the three CNTs who yielded to the government forces, alias “Alon,” former Commanding Officer of Front 41 of the Island Committee (IC) Levox, admits that the EVRPC’s current state has been desperate as CNT’s will to fight is constantly challenged by military operations. He further claims that the EVRPC’s mobility is restricted and the once-claimed “mass bases” are now rejecting their presence due to repeated extortion, intimidation, and failed ideological promises.

Moreover, the 8ID emphasizes that the recent armed engagements and successive surrenders are proof that the EVRPC’s operational capacity is rapidly collapsing. 8ID assures the public that it will sustain its operational momentum and relentlessly pursue the remaining CNTs while opening its doors for those who will choose to surrender.

8ID condemns EVRPC’s heinous IHL violations, seeks justice for fallen Stormtroopers

By DPAO, 8ID PA
December 3, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division announces with deep sorrow the loss of two brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during a legitimate security operation against Communist-NPA-Terrorists (CNTs) at Barangay Babaclayon, San Jose De Buan, Samar, on December 03, 2025.

The encounter occurred as government forces responded to validated reports from residents regarding the unlawful presence of CNTs inside their community. Civilians revealed that CNT members forcibly occupied private properties and used these as hideouts - acts that constitute clear violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). In the lawful performance of their mandate to protect civilians and restore order, government troops moved to verify and address the reported threat. They were met with deliberate and hostile fire from heavily armed CNTs, prompting soldiers to engage in a legitimate defensive firefight.

While maneuvering to shield civilians caught in the danger area, troops were treacherously targeted by the CNTs. This resulted in the death of two soldiers who gave their lives in the line of duty to protect the community and uphold the rule of law.

The Stormtroopers mourn their fallen comrades and strongly condemn the CNTs for their continued violations of IHL and their disregard for civilian safety. They assure the families of the fallen that they will receive immediate assistance and full military honors befitting their heroism.

Pursuit operations are ongoing to ensure that the remaining members of the EVRPC are held accountable for their actions. The 8ID further commends the courageous civilians whose timely reports allowed security forces to take lawful action and prevent greater harm.

The 8th Infantry Division reaffirms its unwavering commitment in protecting communities, upholding International Humanitarian Law, and ensuring that all operations are conducted with utmost professionalism, legitimacy, and respect for human rights. The fallen heroes will forever be honored for their courage, sacrifice, and steadfast service to the people of Eastern Visayas.

8ID delivers decisive blow to EVRPC, ceases CTG exploitations in N. Samar

By DPAO, 8ID PA
November 29, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – Troops of the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division delivered decisive blows against the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Arctic of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) in an armed engagement at Barangay Nipa, Palapag, Northern Samar, on November 29, 2025.

The operation was launched following persistent civilian reports that armed Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) were extorting farmers in the area. Reports also state that the said terrorists have been deliberately harassing communities who are still recovering from the aftermath of Typhoon Tino and Typhoon Uwan.

The encounter transpired early morning on November 29 when troops who were conducting a security operations encountered CNTs entrenched in a hideout rigged with International Humanitarian Law – banned Anti-Personnel Mines (APMs). The situation prompted the government forces to call for close air support, which resulted in the killing of one CNT. A firefight also resulted in the seizure of five high-powered firearms along with various war materiel.

Several CTG members managed to flee, which prompted the troops to mount aggressive pursuit operation.

The 8th Infantry Division strongly condemns the CNTs calculated attempt to undermine the peace and security in the communities. The CNTs actions are blatant disregard to the government’s initiatives to support local communities.

Moreover, the CNT’s use of banned explosives reveal their true character as they endanger innocent civilians while attempting to derail the government’s efforts to uplift communities.

The 8ID vows to sustain its focused military operations to dismantle the remaining CNT formations that continue to undermine peace and development in Eastern Visayas.

8ID upholds IHL in Samar clashes; Killed CNT laid to rest, wounded rebel saved

By DPAO, 8ID PA
November 26, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division demonstrated anew its commitment to International Humanitarian Law (IHL) as troops facilitated the dignified burial of a killed Communist New People’s Army Terrorist (CNT) on November 25, 2025, and ensured immediate medical attention for a wounded CNT who surrendered during the series of armed encounters in the hinterlands of Gandara and San Jorge, Samar.

The series of encounters transpired on November 22, 2025 when soldiers of the 46th Infantry Battalion were fired upon by the armed remnants of Yakal Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Browser of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC).

Amid the successive clashes, three high-powered firearms were seized, one CNT was killed, and another wounded CNT has fled from the encounter site. According to the reports, the wounded CNT sought help from the Barangay Captain and pleaded for his security as he intends to surrender to the government forces. Immediately after he was turned over to the troops, soldiers evacuated him to a medical facility where he received medical treatment.

Meanwhile, despite the rugged terrain and the continued threat of sporadic gunfire, troops labored for days to retrieve and carry the remains of the killed CNT on foot from the encounter site. In accordance with IHL protocols, the body was given due respect, properly documented, and subsequently turned over for a decent burial.

Major General Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Commander of the 8ID, emphasized that these actions reflect the 8ID’s professionalism and respect for human dignity regardless of affiliation.

“Our troops remain steadfast in upholding International Humanitarian Law. Even in the midst of conflict, we ensure that the rights of combatants and non-combatants alike are respected. A life lost is a tragedy, and a life saved is a step toward peace. We hope these incidents encourage others still in the armed struggle to choose the path to peace,” he said.

Moreover, the 8ID continues to work closely with local government units, law enforcement agencies, and community stakeholders to protect civilian communities and promote peace and development across Samar.

NAMFREL submits recommendations to Congress on the issues of nuisance candidates and early voting

Press Release
November 25, 2025

MANDALUYONG CITY – In a position paper submitted to the House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms on November 24, 2025, the National Citizens' Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) strongly recommends adding provisions to current bills filed that would address the practice of filing a certificate of candidacy (COC) to serve as a placeholder for a person who later files a COC via substitution at the last possible moment. According to NAMFREL, this practice makes a mockery of the electoral process, circumvents the spirit and purpose of candidate filing deadlines, allows late entrants to avoid scrutiny during the normal campaign period, and generates publicity through the drama of "beyond-the-last-minute filing."

According to NAMFREL, "the COC substitution mechanism serves a legitimate purpose – allowing parties to replace candidates who die, become disqualified, or voluntarily withdraw for valid reasons. However, this mechanism has been systematically abused to circumvent filing deadlines and create artificial drama that favors candidates with greater resources and media access."

NAMFREL added that the bills filed before Congress on this matter should state that any person found by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to have filed a COC with the intent to serve as a placeholder for a substitute candidate, or who filed a COC without bona fide intention to pursue the candidacy and subsequently withdrew to allow substitution, shall be deemed to have committed an election offense. Similarly, any person who becomes a substitute candidate under circumstances demonstrating that the original COC was filed as a placeholder for the substitute, shall likewise be deemed to have committed an election offense.

On the issue of so-called "nuisance candidates," NAMFREL said in its position paper that the fact that a candidate is unaffiliated with any political party, or is not well-known to the general public, or is perceived as an 'unknown' candidate, should not be considered as evidence of lack of bona fide intention to run for office. "Democracy requires openness to new voices and independent candidates. Many legitimate candidates begin their political careers as unknowns without party backing. To allow 'unknown' status to be grounds for nuisance candidacy would entrench political dynasties and party establishments while excluding newcomers and reformers."

In the matter of early voting, NAMFREL recommends expanded coverage of qualified early voters, which will include: a) Election officials and workers rendering election duty; b) Citizens required to work on Election Day; c) Persons confined in hospitals and penitentiaries; and d) Indigenous peoples living in remote areas. According to NAMFREL, "the principle underlying early voting is that no qualified voter should be denied their constitutional right to suffrage due to circumstances beyond their control. The categories listed above represent significant populations who face genuine barriers to voting. Their exclusion from early voting provisions would perpetuate their disenfranchisement."