Islanders receive aid from DAR

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
May 12, 2026

HINUNANGAN, Southern Leyte – During the weekend, some 100 residents from the two island villages in this town, Barangays San Pedro and San Pablo, were delighted with the distribution by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of calamity readiness packs.

DAR Eastern Visayas Regional Director, Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, personally led on Saturday the distribution of 100 pails full of items necessary during calamity, such as flashlight, slippers, towel, and personal hygiene kit.

Yu shared to the recipients that the distribution of the said assistance was based on the order of Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III who downloaded funds intended for agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in areas frequently hit by calamities.

Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II) Cecil Malubay, who facilitated the hauling of the 100 pails to the two island barangays and assisted Yu in the distribution, disclosed that she was instructed by the regional director to have a separate distribution here so the recipients won’t spend for their fares anymore.

Each resident from Barangay San Pablo will spend P170.00 for fares, while those from Barangay San Pedro will spend P200.00 had they been required to attend the distribution held on April 14 this year at the Hinunangan Municipal Cultural Center.

Fifty-one years old farmer from Barangay San Pedro, Lolito Bago-od, expressed thanks that they were spared from traveling and saved their fares instead for their daily needs.

Meanwhile, Rita Tagnipez, 69, from Barangay San Pablo, became emotional when she saw the items inside the pail. “I can now change my broken slippers!” she exclaimed.

During the said occasion, Yu also directed Malubay, Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officer (MARPO), Lilibeth Olita, and chief of the Regional Program Beneficiaries Development Division, Felix Dante Espina, to organize the ARBs here into agrarian reform beneficiaries organization (ARBO) so they would be able to avail of various support assistance extended by the government.

Both groups of recipient-farmers expressed their gratitude to the President and Estrella for bringing the government closer to them.

Inert Tomahawk Missile live-fire drill held in Tacloban during Balikatan 41-2026, Army says

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
May 10, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division (8ID) said a live-fire training event involving an inert Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) was carried out safely in Tacloban City in the early hours of May 5, 2026, as part of Exercise Balikatan 41-2026.

In a public statement, 8ID said the missile was launched at about 12:20 a.m. from a military-controlled area at the western portion of the runway of Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport, a site used temporarily for the exercise under coordination with relevant authorities and in line with established safety and security procedures.

The missile later struck its intended target at around 1:33 a.m. within the Combat Readiness Training Area in Laur, Nueva Ecija, which the Army described as a recognized military reservation under Fort Magsaysay designated for live-fire activities.

Safety measures, exclusion zones implemented

The division assured residents in Eastern Visayas that the activity was planned in advance and conducted with strict safeguards in place, including airspace and maritime control, area clearances, and the enforcement of exclusion zones.

“These ensured that no civilian communities, particularly those within Tacloban City and nearby areas, were placed at risk at any point during the exercise,” the statement said.

8ID acknowledged that some residents may have noticed increased military presence and short-term restrictions in certain locations, but said these were necessary to ensure the safe execution of the training event.

Balikatan training aims to boost readiness

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), through 8ID, said it remains committed to transparency while improving operational readiness and defense capabilities for Eastern Visayas and the country.

The drill forms part of the largest-ever iteration of the annual U.S.-Philippine Balikatan exercises, which this year involve over 17,000 troops from seven nations and focus on enhancing joint interoperability, long-range precision strike capabilities, and regional defense readiness.

The 8ID, as the lead AFP unit for Eastern Visayas, oversaw local ground coordination, security, and public outreach to minimize disruption and maintain transparency throughout the operation.

P9.6M separation gratuity granted to 77 CAAs; Honoring years of dedicated service

By DPAO, 8ID PA
May 9, 2026

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The Division CAFGU Active Auxiliary Office (DCAO) of the 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division, Philippine Army, distributed a total of P9,613,187 Separation Gratuity to 77 CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) members from various CAA units across the region on April 30, 2026.

The financial assistance was released through respective Infantry Battalions, with P3,736,687 granted to 30 CAAs under the 93rd Infantry Battalion; P2,682,750 to 22 CAAs of the 43rd Infantry Battalion; P1,788,500 to 14 CAAs of the 63rd Infantry Battalion; and P1,405,250 to 11 CAAs of the 46th Infantry Battalion.

Among the beneficiaries, 73 CAAs rendered eight years or more of service, while the remaining personnel served between five to seven years, reflecting their sustained commitment in supporting peace and security efforts in their respective areas of responsibility.

The distribution underscores the 8ID’s unwavering recognition of the indispensable role of CAAs as force multipliers and community-based frontliners who have significantly contributed in maintaining peace, order, and stability in geographically isolated and conflict-affected areas.

It likewise serves as a tribute to their dedication and sacrifices in supporting military operations, securing communities, and protecting civilians from the threats posed by local communist terrorist groups.

The Separation Gratuity Program aims to provide financial assistance to retiring CAAs as they transition back to civilian life, enabling them to establish small businesses, support their families, and pursue sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The 8th Infantry Division emphasized that the provision of separation gratuity is a tangible manifestation of the Army’s appreciation for the invaluable service rendered by the CAAs.

“For years, our CAAs stood side by side with our soldiers in safeguarding communities and preserving peace. As they return to civilian life, we hope that this assistance will serve as a strong foundation for new beginnings and sustainable livelihoods for them and their families.”

Meanwhile, the 8th Infantry Division reiterated that the initiative forms part of the government’s broader efforts to ensure that the contributions of CAAs are duly recognized, while promoting their smooth reintegration into mainstream society and fostering long-term community resilience.

The 8ID further reaffirmed its commitment to continue supporting its peace partners, ensuring that every contribution to peace and nation-building is honored and remembered.

Southern Leyte declared under stable peace and security; DILG to strengthen barangay peacekeepers

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
May 7, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – Southern Leyte has officially attained a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on May 5 at the Provincial Gymnasium in Maasin City.

The ceremony was led by Governor Damian Mercado, joined by Maj. Gen. Peter B. Burgonio, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division, and Brig. Gen. Pompeyo Jason M. Almagro of the 802nd Infantry Brigade. The declaration was formalized through Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution No. 396, Series of 2026.

Governor Mercado expressed optimism that the province’s improved security climate will draw investments and enhance tourism. "When a place is peaceful, investors come in – especially in tourism, where Southern Leyte has much to offer,” he remarked, extending gratitude to the Philippine Army for its role in safeguarding the province.

Once considered an insurgency hotspot in the early 2000s, Southern Leyte has achieved stability through stronger governance and sustained collaboration between security forces and local stakeholders.

DILG Provincial Director Danilo A. Laguitan announced forthcoming initiatives to empower barangay tanods and Civilian Active Auxiliary members as force multipliers in maintaining peace and order.

The 8th Infantry Division commended local government units and communities for their collective efforts, stressing that the SIPSC declaration symbolizes unity among government, security forces, and citizens in securing lasting peace.

In his message, Maj. Gen. Burgonio highlighted the sacrifices of both the security sector and the community in resisting local communist groups. “Southern Leyte now stands with dignity. This is a clear testament to the strength that emerges when the government, security sector, and citizens unite toward a common goal. Today, we are not merely signing a document – we are affirming a historic milestone, proudly declaring that Southern Leyte is now under a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition,” he said.

The 8ID continues to coordinate with other local governments for similar SIPSC declarations across Leyte, Eastern Samar, Samar, and Northern Samar.

NMP Manila capacitates 17 OWWA seafarer-scholars, complete IMO MC 6.09

Press Release
May 6, 2026

MANILA – Seventeen (17) aspiring maritime instructors successfully completed the IMO Model Course 6.09 (Training for Instructors) Batch 4-2026 at the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) Manila Office, taking a significant step toward building meaningful careers in maritime education.

Conducted from February 23 to March 6, 2026, the trainees received financial support from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) under its Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP). The batch was composed of scholars from OWWA NCR, Region I, and Region IV-B.

Over the two-week training, participants were equipped with essential teaching competencies, including modern instructional techniques, effective communication skills, and globally aligned training methods in accordance with Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), by the International Maritime Organization.

The training program integrated practical teaching demonstrations with hands-on learning experiences, preparing the trainees to take on instructional roles in maritime education.

This initiative highlights the continuing partnership between NMP and OWWA in supporting seafarers’ transition to shore-based careers as maritime instructors. It also reflects the expanding reach of the SESP, benefiting scholars from various regions nationwide.

In addition, both agencies are strengthening their partnership to make skills upgrading more accessible for seafarers through the proposed rollout of free training with meal support, more scholarship grants, and expanded program coverage.

As the only state-run maritime training and research institution in the country, NMP ensures that every Filipino seafarer is globally competitive and future-ready, sustaining the country’s position as the world’s leading supplier of maritime professionals.

P.6M debt of agrarian beneficiary erased, thanks PBBM, Estrella

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
May 6, 2026

TACLOBAN CITY – Agrarian reform beneficiary (ARB) Rodolfo Regis from Palo, Leyte was extremely happy to receive his certificate of condonation with release of mortgage (COCROM) on Wednesday, April 29 this year, which erased his more than half a million peso unpaid balance at the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), freeing him from financial burden.

“I am very happy! A big thanks to the President for issuing this law that condones all our unpaid balances,” Regis exclaimed. I am sure this will have a great effect to my co-farmers who are also beneficiaries of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) with remaining unpaid loans,” He added.

Regis was referring to Republic Act No. 11953 otherwise known as the New Agrarian Emancipation Act signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on July 7, 2023. The said law condones all unpaid loans of ARBs, related to their awarded lots, including interests.

When asked for his reaction, Regis, 65, said, “I can no longer afford to pay the loan amount of P659,160.49. That is why I am very grateful to our President and Secretary Conrado Estrella III for this opportunity.”

Regis’ story was just among the 11,917 ARBs across Eastern Visayas who were relieved from financial burden following receipt of their COCROMs.

A total of 14,838 COCROMS were distributed on Wednesday condoning P799,524,119 unpaid loans of ARBs for the 42,948 hectares awarded farm lots.

Aside from COCROMs, DAR also distributed on the same occasion 16,023 individual land titles, covering 20,301 hectares of agricultural lands situated in different parts of the region, to 13,767 ARBs.

This individual titles were issued under the World Bank-funded Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) Project. Lands previously covered by collective Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) were subdivided and the ARBs were issued with individual titles to strengthen their property rights over their awarded lots.

“I am happy to receive this. I did not expect this anymore because I am already old. I have little time left,” said 89 years old Santos Abud from Caibiran, Biliran.

Three DAR undersecretaries, Kazel Celeste of the Field Operations Office, Josef Angelo Martires of the Support Services Office and Rowena Niña Taduran of the Special Concerns Office, represented Estrella to lead the distribution of COCROMs and land titles at the Tacloban City Convention Center.

In her message to the ARBs, Celeste said, “Isa lang po ang hihilingin natin sa ating mga ARB. Ito ay sana alagaan po natin ang lupa na ipinagkaloob sa inyo ng gobyerno. Alagaan po natin yan, wag po natin ibebenta yan dahil makakaasa po kayo na nandito lang ang DAR para tumulong sa ating mga magsasaka.”

Meanwhile, Martires promised to flood this region with farm support assistance, “Kasama ng titulong yan, kung binabaha lagi ang Leyte at Samar, ang pangako ni Secretary Conrado Estrella III, babaha ng support services sa Leyte at Samar. Pero dapat malinaw, hindi darating yan sa individual agrarian reform beneficiary. Kailangan ayusin nyo ang inyong hanay. Kailangan maging asosasyon kayo. At eventually maging kooperatiba kayo.”

Further, Taduran left a reminder for the ARBs to ponder, “Tandaan po natin, ang lupa ay hindi lamang para sa kasalukuyan, kundi isang pamana para sa susunod na henerasyon. Kaya ito po ay pangalagaan ninyo at pagyamanin. Kung ito po ay ating pahahalagahan at pauunlarin, hindi lamang tayo ang makikinabang kundi pati ang mga anak at apo natin.”

Moreover, DAR Eastern Visayas Regional Director, Atty. Robert Anthony Yu asked everyone to work together and make this region a “powerhouse of agricultural productivity and a model of rural development.”

CARD Bank holds 1st konekTAYO 2026 in Samal, Davao del Norte

By JOSEPHINE M. RAMOS
May 5, 2026

SAN PABLO CITY – On April 18, 2026, the first konekTAYO 2026, attended by 462 CARD Bank clients, was held at the New Kaputian Gymnasium, Purok Tower, Poblacion Kaputian, Samal, Davao del Norte.

konekTAYO is an initiative of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI) designed to assist CARD clients who are not yet registered to the konek2CARD app, as well as those clients who have inactive accounts. During the event, CARD MRI staff provide assistance to help clients access and navigate the konek2CARD mobile banking app.

Through this initiative, CARD MRI aims to strengthen digital financial inclusion by encouraging more clients to use the app. The program also intends to empower communities with more convenient, faster, and more secure payment transactions while continuing to enhance the overall digital banking experience.

“By visiting communities, our goal remains to bring them along with us in this journey toward digital innovation. Beyond providing services, we take time to listen and understand their evolving needs while walking alongside them, offering support in every step of their journey,” CARD Bank President Ms. Marivic Austria stated.

The first konekTAYO was held in Davao City on November 14, 2025, with 350 clients from CARD Bank, followed by a second event in Pangasinan attended by 511 clients from CARD SME Bank.

The event has a registration booth for those who are not yet registered in the konek2CARD app and a reactivation booth to help inactive users regain access to their accounts.

As of March 31, 2026, the konek2CARD app has reached over 3 million registered users. CARD MRI aims to increase this number further in the coming months while continuing to enhance its features to ensure a faster, more efficient experience in the app.

Arteche declares SIPSC – peace opens doors to investment & growth

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
May 3, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – In a momentous occasion marking its 75th Township Anniversary on April 27, 2026, the municipality of Arteche in Eastern Samar officially achieved Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC), signaling a transformative shift from decades of insurgency challenges to a future built on peace, stability, and development.

This landmark achievement represents more than the mere absence of conflict – it embodies the successful integration of security operations, good governance, and community empowerment, positioning Arteche as a burgeoning hub for investment, tourism, and human capital development in Eastern Visayas.

Acting Mayor Roland Boie Evardone emphasized the transformative impact of the achievement:

“Walang mapaglagyan ng kagalakan ang aming mga puso... Ngayon, very optimistic tayo na with this declaration, this will create opportunities – not only for employment but for sustained economic activity. Mawawala na ang takot ng investors, ng mga turista, at ng mga nais mag-aral. Dahil alam nila na insurgency-free na ang Arteche.”

His statement underscores a critical shift in the local narrative – from fear and instability to confidence and opportunity – signaling a more conducive environment for private sector engagement and institutional expansion.

Community voices echoed this optimism. Norma Orosco, a 78-year-old resident, reflected on the town’s journey:

“As compared han una ngan ha yana… may-ada na kamurayawan. Sobra an pagpasalamat han mga tawo… yana nakab-ot na namon an peace and order.”

The SIPSC declaration highlights the effectiveness of the whole-of-nation approach, driven by collaboration among local government units, national agencies, and the security sector. Sustained military presence, combined with development interventions, has dismantled insurgent influence while empowering communities.

Brigadier General Arlino L. Sendaydiego, Commander of the 801st Infantry “Bantay at Gabay” Brigade, stressed that the achievement is both strategic and people-centered:

“This is not merely a ceremonial declaration – it is a hard-earned victory of unity. It reflects the collective resolve of the people of Arteche to reject violence and embrace progress. The Philippine Army remains steadfast in ensuring that this peace is protected and sustained.”

The 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, reaffirmed its commitment to consolidating gains by supporting governance, facilitating development initiatives, and ensuring that security translates into tangible socio-economic benefits.

With peace secured, Arteche now stands ready to accelerate local development – attracting investments, boosting tourism, strengthening education, and expanding livelihood opportunities – transforming stability into long-term prosperity for its people.

Calamity readiness aid from DAR benefits 2K farmers in So. Leyte

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
May 2, 2026

HINUNANGAN, Southern Leyte – Though they knew the distribution of the calamity readiness assistance from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) here was scheduled in the afternoon of April 14, but neighbors Maribel Mendoza and Virginia Borlaza were already outside of the venue as early as seven o’ clock in the morning.

Maribel, 44, and Virginia, 61, were among the 73 residents of Barangay Tuburan in this town, some nine kilometers away from the town proper, who were in the list of recipients of the said assistance.

A total of 2,100 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) and members of agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) from this municipality and six other towns in this province, trooped to the three designated areas situated here and in the towns of Silago and Saint Bernard, for the distribution.

All three mayors, Lemuel Honor, Jocelyn Bungcaras and Ymard Joseph Tocmo of Silago, Saint Bernard and Hinunangan, respectively, expressed their gratitude to DAR for choosing their respective towns as venues for this event and for providing assistance to the farmers.

DAR Eastern Visayas Regional Director, Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, led the distribution which started at nine o’clock in the morning at the Silago covered court in the municipality of Silago. He disclosed that Agrarian Reform Secretary Corado Estrella III, upon instructions from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., downloaded funds for this assistance, which included two pairs of slippers, coffee and sugar, personal hygiene kit, towel and flashlight, aside from the pail where the items were placed, intended to areas frequently-hit by typhoons.

Calixto Peru, 72, and one of the 412 recipients in Silago, expressed thanks to the President and Estrella. He shared that he is happy to receive such assistance. “I need all these, especially the towel which I can use when I work in the farm,” said Peru.

From Silago, Yu and his team went to the Catmon Barangay Auditorium in Saint Bernanrd where 669 recipient-farmers from this town and from the towns of Bontoc and Liloan were waiting.

Virginia Antipala, 68, from Barangay Himos-onan, Saint Bernanrd, said, “These are of big help to us. The coffee, the slippers, I can use them,” Antipala said.

After lunch, the team from DAR proceeded to the Hinunangan Municipal Cultural Center where Maribel and Virginia, together with 1,017 other farmers from this town and from the towns of Sogod and Hinundayan, had been waiting for hours.

Finally, Maribel and Virginia got hold of their pails full of items necessary in times of disaster. Maribel exclaimed, “I’m so happy because I don’t have money to buy these items. We need all these. The flashlight is of big help because we don’t have light at home.”