Paranas LGU strengthens nutrition services with new equipment and planning workshop

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 10, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Municipal Government of Paranas has taken another step toward improving child nutrition and health outcomes by distributing weighing scales to barangays and conducting a comprehensive Barangay Nutrition Action Plan (BNAP) workshop.

Distribution of Nutrition Equipment

On April 6, 2026, during the opening of the BNAP orientation at Kirigtaan Hall, the LGU distributed DETECTO weighing scales with height boards to 26 barangays. These were purchased using the P500,000 cash prize awarded to Paranas after being recognized as a Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition (CROWN) for 2023, formally conferred in 2024.

The initiative, led by Municipal Nutrition Action Officer Bernice Jessica Enguerra, ensures barangays have the tools to monitor children’s growth more effectively. Mayor Elvira Babalcon emphasized that the remaining barangays will also be equipped, with costs shouldered by the local government to guarantee equal access to nutrition services across all communities.

Barangay Nutrition Action Plan Workshop

From April 6 to 8, 2026, the LGU hosted the BNAP workshop, guiding barangays in formulating nutrition programs for 2026–2028. The event featured resource speakers from the National Nutrition Council Region 8, including Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Dr. Catalino Dotollo Jr., DMO II Ernest R. Dimakiling, and NO II Carl Michael C. Sacramento.

Participants – punong barangays, barangay secretaries, treasurers, and Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) – engaged in discussions on strengthening grassroots nutrition programs. Key topics included the Tutok Kainan feeding initiative and strategies for sustainable health outcomes.

Broader Impact

The combined distribution of equipment and BNAP workshop reflects the LGU’s broader commitment to ensuring that every barangay in Paranas is equipped with both the resources and knowledge to deliver responsive nutrition services. Mayor Babalcon underscored that these efforts are part of a long-term vision to safeguard the health of children and families in the municipality.

Tabango, Leyte declared under SIPSC: A milestone for peace and economic growth

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 9, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – The municipality of Tabango in Leyte has officially been declared under the State of Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC), a landmark achievement that paves the way for stronger economic growth, particularly in agriculture and agribusiness. The designation signals a secure and stable environment that is expected to attract investments, expand local enterprises, and generate employment opportunities – ultimately enhancing the quality of life for Tabangohanons.

The declaration ceremony, held on April 7, 2026 at the Tabango Sports and Social Center, marked a turning point for the municipality. Meeting all SIPSC parameters reflects Tabango’s success in achieving lasting peace and security, a vital foundation for sustained development.

Mayor Maria Corazon E. Remandaban welcomed the milestone, underscoring its significance for local prosperity:

“Hindi madali i-sustain ang peace and security. Nonetheless, we are here today to reaffirm our collective responsibility to safeguard the peace we have worked so hard for. Internal peace and security is not the sole duty of our law enforcement agencies or local officials, rather, it is a shared obligation of every citizen.”

She emphasized that peace fosters investor confidence, encourages business expansion, and creates jobs. With improved security, Tabango can expect stronger economic activity, better delivery of basic services, and greater community resilience.

The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division echoed this sentiment, stressing that the SIPSC declaration is a powerful signal to investors:

“Peace dividends are within reach of the people of Tabango. This declaration will encourage both local and national investors to bring in business opportunities, contributing to stable economic growth in the municipality and neighboring communities.”

Beyond economic benefits, the SIPSC status strengthens public trust, enhances governance, and promotes a culture of shared responsibility. It allows government agencies to focus more on development projects, infrastructure, and social services rather than security concerns

Tabango follows San Isidro, Leyte, which achieved the same status on March 23, 2026. As of April 8, 2026, a total of 90 municipalities and one province within the 8ID’s area of operations have been declared under SIPSC.

The 8ID reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining these gains and called on citizens to remain vigilant and supportive of government programs to ensure that peace and development continue to thrive.

San Isidro, Leyte declared under SIPSC; Signals end of insurgency threat, opens path for development

By DPAO, 8ID PA
April 8, 2026

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army, welcomed the declaration of the Municipality of San Isidro, Leyte under a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC), marking a major breakthrough in the area’s peace and development efforts. The declaration signifies the effective neutralization of communist terrorist group influence, creating a secure environment that is expected to accelerate economic growth and attract investments. More importantly, this stable peace and order condition lays the groundwork for long-term development and a better quality of life for its residents.

The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division attributes this milestone to the strong coordination and collaboration among the 93rd Infantry (Bantay Kapayapaan) Battalion under the 802nd Infantry Brigade, the local government unit, partner agencies, and the peace-loving communities of San Isidro.

“This achievement is a testament to the strong partnership between our security forces, local government units, and the people. It reflects our shared commitment to ending insurgency and signals the readiness of the LGU in leading a peaceful environment conducive to development,” the Division stated.

The 8ID emphasized that the SIPSC declaration is a people-centered victory that opens greater opportunities for progress enabling the municipality to focus more on infrastructure development, social services, and livelihood programs. This milestone allows government efforts to shift from security-focused operations toward initiatives that directly uplift communities and strengthen local economies.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and actively participate in initiatives that promote peace, unity, and resilience, ensuring that the gains achieved will continue to translate into lasting development

The Division also reaffirmed its commitment to work alongside stakeholders to sustain peace gains, prevent the resurgence of threat groups, and further support inclusive growth and development in the area.

Dawahon seaweed farmers replant seedlings, strengthen production with EPSDP support

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 5, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – “Replanting is re-investing.”

This guiding principle continues to inspire the seaweed farmers of Dawahon Island in Bato, Leyte, who recently replanted 2,000 kilos of seaweed seedlings across three hectares of farms on March 30-31, 2026.

The seedlings were taken from the 6,000 kilos initially planted by the Dawahon Agripreneurs Fishermen Cooperative (DAFC) in January 2026 under the Enhanced Philippine Seaweed Development Program (EPSDP).

With perseverance and collective effort, the cooperative’s 500 members anticipate producing an additional 6,000 seedlings within a month of this replanting. This expected harvest will provide a sustainable source of income, improving household earnings and reinforcing the financial resilience of member families.

At present, DAFC maintains 24 single monoline and 120 bottom monoline seaweed farms, sustaining an estimated stock of 10–12 metric tons.

Earlier this year, DAFC received 6,000 kilos of seaweed seedlings valued at P120,000 through the EPSDP. This included 4,000 kilos of Kappaphycus striatus and 2,000 kilos of Eucheuma denticulatum (“spinosum green”).

“Despite the ongoing effects of global warming, BFAR 8 continues to stand with us through the EPSDP. Thank you for giving us hope and helping advance our industry,” said DAFC President Ruel Q. Inoc.

Beyond Dawahon Island, BFAR 8 also extends EPSDP support to other seaweed-growing areas in Leyte, including San Isidro, Merida, and Palompon. Through these initiatives, BFAR 8 aims to contribute 108 metric tons to the region’s aquaculture output, positioning Eastern Visayas once again among the country’s leading seaweed-producing regions.

8ID reports tactical gains, rebel leader surrenders in Eastern Visayas

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
April 3, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division announced a series of tactical victories against remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC), highlighting what it described as a weakening insurgency in the region.

From January to March 2026, the division engaged in eight armed encounters that led to the neutralization of 14 New People’s Army (NPA) members. Of these, one was killed in combat while 13 surrendered, turning over 11 firearms to authorities.

Among those who yielded was Gilbert Gerbon, alias “Ethan,” a high-ranking CTG leader. Military officials said Gerbon’s surrender was a direct result of sustained government pressure and operations that undermined his ability to continue armed struggle. His decision to denounce violence was cited as evidence of the collapse of the EVRPC’s leadership structure.

The Army emphasized that these gains were not only due to combat operations but also to intensified civil-military initiatives. Community support and grassroots peace engagements have reportedly encouraged reintegration of former rebels while preventing the resurgence of CTG influence in cleared areas.

“The combined impact of sustained military pressure and responsive government programs has steadily weakened the EVRPC’s operational capability,” the 8ID said in a statement, adding that recent tactical defeats show the group’s cause has “drastically fallen.”

The division urged remaining insurgents to abandon armed struggle and avail themselves of government reintegration programs, stressing that continued resistance would only lead to further losses.

Nutrition Month 2026 highlights link between nutrition and climate action

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
March 31, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – The National Nutrition Council (NNC) has announced the sub-theme for this year’s Nutrition Month celebration: “Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan!” The campaign underscores the vital connection between nutrition and environmental protection, with a strong focus on climate action.

Mandated by Presidential Decree No. 491, the Nutrition Act of the Philippines, Nutrition Month is observed annually to raise awareness and mobilize collective action for better nutrition. Since 2024, the overarching theme has been “Sa PPAN, Sama-Sama sa Nutrisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat,” with sub-themes chosen to highlight key pillars of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) 2023-2028.

This year’s sub-theme emphasizes that safeguarding natural resources is essential to ensuring sustainable food systems, food security, and good nutrition for present and future generations.

Climate Change and Nutrition: A two-way link

Climate change, driven by human activities such as fossil fuel use and deforestation, is reshaping ecosystems and food systems worldwide. In the Philippines, rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and stronger typhoons threaten agriculture and fisheries – critical sources of food and livelihood. These disruptions reduce access to nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and fish, heightening risks of malnutrition among vulnerable groups including children and low-income households.

At the same time, food systems themselves contribute significantly to climate change. Globally, food production, processing, and consumption account for about 30 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. Unsustainable farming practices, food waste, and reliance on resource-intensive diets strain land, water, and biodiversity.

Toward sustainable food systems

Experts stress the need for climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable fisheries, diversified crops, and promotion of local, seasonal foods. Investing in nutrient-dense crops that can withstand environmental changes is also seen as key to securing healthy diets amid climate challenges.

The NNC continues to advance policies and programs that integrate nutrition with environmental sustainability. Through multi-sectoral collaboration, the Council supports initiatives ensuring access to safe, nutritious, and climate-resilient food.

A call to action

The theme “Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan!” calls on government agencies, local government units, civil society, private sector, and communities to work together in protecting both human health and the environment. Safeguarding forests, oceans, agricultural lands, and water resources is essential to securing food sources for generations to come.

As Nutrition Month 2026 unfolds, the NNC urges Filipinos to adopt sustainable food practices, reduce food waste, support local producers, and strengthen nutrition programs. The Council emphasizes that the health of people and the planet are inseparable – building resilient food systems is both a nutrition and climate imperative.

Armed robbery at Catbalogan terminal ends in deadly shootout

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
March 30, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – A robbery at the Grandtours Terminal in Brgy. 3, Catbalogan City on Saturday evening escalated into a deadly confrontation, leaving two suspects dead and one injured, following swift police response and intervention by the terminal’s owner.

According to reports from the Samar Police Provincial Office (PPO) and Catbalogan City Police Station (CPS), three armed suspects stormed the cashier’s room of the terminal around 50 meters from the police station, declaring a hold-up and ordering cashiers to surrender collected cash and mobile phones. The suspects fled with the stolen items, but were pursued by the terminal owners who had been monitoring the incident via CCTV. Armed with their own firearms, the owners engaged the suspects, triggering an exchange of gunfire.

Police officers, who were nearby conducting briefings for separate operations, rushed to the scene upon hearing gunshots. During the confrontation, two suspects sustained gunshot wounds. One, identified as alias “Pat-pat,” a resident of Jiabong, Samar, was declared dead on arrival at Samar Provincial Hospital. Another suspect, alias “Berto,” from Mandaluyong, was treated for injuries. Firearms and stolen valuables were recovered at the scene, which was later processed by Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO).

The third suspect, alias “Gerald,” managed to escape but was tracked down hours later in Brgy. Lagundi, Catbalogan City, following a tip from a concerned citizen. A joint team from Catbalogan CPS, the Provincial Intelligence Unit, and Regional Intelligence Division 8 confronted the suspect around midnight. Police said Gerald initiated gunfire upon sensing their arrival, leading to his injury. He was transported to Samar Provincial Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

PLTCOL Norman D. Ala, Acting Chief of Police of Catbalogan CPS, commended the coordination of operating units in swiftly resolving the incident. “The safety of the public remains our top priority. The Catbalogan PNP will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations against criminal elements,” Ala stated, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities

Authorities confirmed that no civilians were seriously harmed during the incident. Charges are being prepared in connection with the robbery and related offenses.

New Dialysis Center opens in Samar, expanding access to lifesaving treatment

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
March 20, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Samar Provincial Hospital celebrated a major advancement in local healthcare with the inauguration of its Dialysis Center on March 18, offering vital services closer to home for patients across the province.

Governor Sharee Ann Tan highlighted the urgency of the initiative, expressing hope that the facility’s machines will save many lives and ease the burden on families. She emphasized that beyond technology, the true value of the center lies in compassionate and attentive care from healthcare providers.

Hospital Chief Dr. Jansenn Mutya underscored the center’s deeper significance, noting that dialysis is more than a medical procedure – it is a lifeline for those with kidney disease. He stressed that the new facility reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment and represents a renewed commitment to service and patient care.

The center is equipped with 15 dialysis machines, currently able to accommodate up to 30 patients daily through two shifts, with plans to expand to three shifts as demand grows. Patients may access services through walk-in consultations, followed by evaluation from nephrology staff. To streamline care, patients are advised to prepare required documents, including a hemodialysis prescription, recent laboratory results, referral letters, medical abstracts, treatment flow sheets, and a list of medications.

Necessary laboratory tests include hepatitis profiling, complete blood count and blood typing, renal panel, chest X-ray, and ECG results to support accurate assessment and treatment planning.

The establishment of the Dialysis Center reflects the provincial government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery and ensure responsive, patient-centered services for the people of Samar.

Army troops recover remains of NPA leader after clash in Hinabangan, Samar

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
March 17, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – Soldiers from the 63rd Infantry (Innovator) Battalion of the Philippine Army discovered the decomposing remains of a suspected Communist New People’s Army (NPA) leader following an armed skirmish with two remnants of the Sub-Regional Committee (SRC) Sesame in Hinabangan, Samar on March 14, 2026.

The body was found between Barangay Cabalagnan and Barangay Tabay during pursuit operations against fleeing NPA combatants. Former rebels identified the remains through personal belongings recovered at the site, linking them to Lupito Bucatcat, alias “Hunio,” Secretary of SRC-SESAME under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee. Bucatcat had an outstanding warrant of arrest for multiple murder issued by Branch 30 of the Regional Trial Court in Basey, Samar.

The remains were turned over to the Hinabangan Municipal Police Station for documentation, forensic examination, and proper disposition in line with legal procedures.

Meanwhile, the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division commended the 63rd Infantry Battalion for their swift and sustained operations. Troops continue to pursue fleeing members of the armed group to prevent further threats to nearby communities.

The Division also urged remaining SRC SESAME members to surrender, abandon armed struggle, and avail of government reintegration programs. It reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding communities and encouraged the public to support peace and security efforts by reporting suspicious activities in their areas.

Former NPA member grateful for fresh start; Amnesty application period concluded

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
March 15, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – A former New People’s Army (NPA) member has expressed heartfelt thanks to the government after receiving a Safe Conduct Pass under the national Amnesty Program, which helps ex-rebels reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives.

Jomely Banagbanag, also known as “Jhon,” previously served as a medic with Platoon 1, Island Committee, LEVOX. She faces a pending murder case at the Regional Trial Court in Baybay City and was among the 1,973 individuals who applied for amnesty last year through the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) in Tacloban.

Banagbanag surrendered in 2021 to the 14th Infantry (Avenger) Battalion of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, Philippine Army, beginning her transition back to civilian life. On December 17, 2025, she was one of 52 applicants granted Safe Conduct Passes during a ceremony led by Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez, Chairman of LAB–Tacloban, at the Center for Development and Livelihood Assistance Office in Kanhuraw Hill.

The Safe Conduct Pass enables former rebels to pursue livelihood opportunities and live without fear of arrest for offenses tied to their past involvement in the communist movement. “Nagpapasalamat po kami sa gobyerno sa ibinigay na Safe Conduct Pass dahil makakapaghanapbuhay na po kami nang hindi nag-aalala na huhulihin kami ng mga pulis,” Banagbanag said.

To date, 190 individuals in Eastern Visayas have received Safe Conduct Passes, based on combined data from the Local Amnesty Boards in Catbalogan and Tacloban. The 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division of the Philippine Army commended local governments in the region for supporting reintegration and peace-building efforts, emphasizing that the program is a vital step toward reconciliation as more former NPA members choose to abandon armed struggle and embrace peaceful family life.

The period for former members of the CPP-NPA-NDF to file amnesty applications ended on March 13, 2026. Those whose applications are later approved by the President will have their civil and political rights restored and gain a pathway toward peaceful reintegration into society.

Task Force Ayuda conducts disaster response drill in Guiuan

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
March 13, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – Task Force Ayuda of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division, in collaboration with the Municipality of Guiuan, carried out a three-day disaster response simulation exercise from March 6 to 8, 2026. The activity was designed to evaluate and strengthen the task force’s operational readiness in handling emergencies.

The drill featured several disaster scenarios, including a red rainfall warning from an incoming typhoon, storm surge alerts that prompted mass evacuations, a collapsed building requiring search-and-rescue operations, and a medical surge following a simulated fire incident. These exercises enabled participating units and partner agencies to practice coordination, rapid deployment, and command-and-control procedures under realistic conditions.

Observers from the 8th Infantry Division and the Office of Civil Defense Region VIII assessed the exercise to measure preparedness, interoperability, and overall disaster response capability. Both the Army and the Guiuan local government expressed appreciation for the successful conduct of the activity and the strong partnership it demonstrated.

“The people of Guiuan appreciate your continued dedication and support. Together, we strengthen our community and move forward with hope in the public service,” the LGU noted.