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Showing posts with the label Bicol News

Pagdakip sa isang mangingisdang may deperensya sa pag-iisip sa bayan ng Cataingan, desperadong hakbang ng militar at pulis ayun sa NPA

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BASAHIN | Pahayag sa Midya Jose Rapsing Command - NPA Masbate Ka Luz del Mar - Tagapagsalita Disyembre 14, 2025 Pagdakip sa isang mangingisdang may deperensya sa pag-iisip sa bayan ng Cataingan, desperadong hakbang ng militar at pulis Mariing pinasisinungalingan ng Jose Rapsing Command - NPA Masbate ang panghahambog ng militar at pulis na may nahuli silang mataas na upisyal ng NPA sa Masbate. Sa halip, kinukundena nito ang desperadong hakbang ng kumbinadong pwersa ng CIDG, RIU, SAC at PNP Cataingan sa paghuli kay Junito "Bonoy" Bultron, 56, isang mangingisda na may deperensya sa pag-iisip noong Disyembre 9, 2025 sa barangay Teresita, sa bayan ng Catingan. Pinalalabas ng militar at pulis na nahuli si Bultron sa barangay Malibas, Palanas at isa siyang kasapi ng New People's Army (NPA), myembro ng larangan 1 at rank no. 2 na may kasong murder. Labis itong ipanagtataka ng mga taga-Malibas lalo na ng mga kamag-anak at kakilala ni Bultron. Ayon sa kanila, kung saan-...

Naga City Pioneers AI-Powered Transparency in Infrastructure Projects

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By: Nel Adtoon  Under the leadership of Mayor Leni Robredo, Naga City is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative to enhance public accountability through the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in monitoring infrastructure projects. This move aims to revolutionize how the city manages and oversees public works, ensuring transparency and efficiency.   The digital platform will provide real-time tracking and updates on project progress, giving citizens clear and accessible information about the use of public funds. Mayor Robredo emphasized the importance of this system, stating, "Naga City will pioneer a model where contractors and LGU offices use the same transparent platform," during the Innovators Assembly. She envisions an “unprecedented feedback loop of participation and accountability,” empowering citizens to directly rate and comment on projects.   PhilCentro President Voxstra Corbett, who designed the AI tool, is collaborating with Robredo to expose and...

Naga City Hospital Receives P8 Million Boost for Newborn Care from LDS Church

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 NAGA CITY - The Naga City General Hospital (NCGH) has significantly enhanced its capacity to care for premature and critically ill newborns, thanks to an P8 million donation of state-of-the-art medical equipment from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS). The donation, spearheaded by LDS Naga-Philippine Stake President Michael Diaz, was formally turned over to the city government in a ceremony attended by Mayor Leni Robredo and key hospital staff.   The contribution includes essential items for the hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), such as radiant warmers, incubators, neonatal patient monitors, and phototherapy lamps. Dr. Joseph Sanchez, chief of NCGH, and his assistant, Dr. Jamela Mangente, were also commended for their efforts in coordinating the acquisition of the equipment.   Mayor Robredo emphasized the long-standing partnership between the city and the LDS Church, recalling previous collaborations through the Angat Buhay Fo...

CIDG Operation in Ragay, Camarines Sur, Nets Illegal Firearm

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Ragay, Camarines Sur – In an early morning operation today, November 21, 2025, operatives from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Camarines Sur Provincial Field Unit (PFU), along with partner law enforcement units, successfully implemented a search warrant in Sitio Bukal, Barangay GRS, Ragay, Camarines Sur. The operation, part of the CIDG Flagship Project "Oplan Paglalansag Omega," targeted illegal firearms.   The search, conducted between 5:00 AM and 6:30 AM, focused on the residence of Ariston Gamier y Gunay, a 39-year-old farmer residing in the said area. The search warrant, issued by Hon. Cecilia R. Borja-Soler, authorized the search for illegal firearms and ammunition.   The joint operation involved detectives from CIDG Cam Sur PFU, the 95th Special Action Company of the 9th Special Action Battalion, PNP SAF Cam Sur, NCIT, RIU5, CAMSUR MARPSTA, and Ragay MPS. The search of Gamier's residence resulted in the confiscation of the following...

Regional Most Wanted Person Arrested in Parañaque City

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  Parañaque City, Philippines – In a successful operation dubbed "Oplan Pagtugis," authorities apprehended July Mañago y Soriano, the number two Regional Most Wanted Person, at approximately 11:30 PM on Thursday, November 20, 2025, along Taft Avenue Extension, Barangay Baclaran, Parañaque City.   Mañago, 44 years old, married, and a construction worker residing in Purok 2, Barangay Manmuntay, Basud, Camarines Norte, was taken into custody by a tracker team composed of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Camarines Norte Provincial Field Unit (PFU), Camarines Norte Provincial Intelligence Unit (CNPIU), and Basud Municipal Police Station (MPS).   The arrest was executed by virtue of multiple warrants issued by Hon. Rene Morallo De La Cruz, Presiding Judge of Family Court Branch 5, Daet, Camarines Norte, all dated December 6, 2023. The warrants pertain to the following charges: six counts of Qualified Statutory Rape as amended by R.A. 8353 as fur...

Watsons and Daraga Doctors Hospital Partner to Provide Free Surgical Services for Children with Cleft Lip and Palate

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  DARAGA, ALBAY – The "Give Smile Project," a collaborative effort between Watsons and Daraga Doctors Hospital, is set to provide free surgical services to approximately 100 children with cleft lip and cleft palate.   This initiative aims to provide confidence and hope to the families of those with the said condition.   Mr. Ed Pasion, Director for Sales and Operations of South Luzon, Watsons Philippines, emphasized the importance of bringing healthcare closer to the community. "Because we are now bringing healthcare closer to the community because, most often dinadala yan sa major cities. But now we're bringing it closer down to the people," he stated. He also highlighted how the project breaks down fears associated with surgery through education and explanation.   Pasion further explained, "Remember when you go to a Watson store, normally you're either feeling something or you want to get beauty products or gusto mo magpapaganda. So now, by...

CIDG Operation in Nabua, Camarines Sur Nets Firearms, Drugs

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Nabua, Camarines Sur – A coordinated operation by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Regional Field Unit 5 (RFU5) early this morning resulted in the seizure of firearms and suspected illegal drugs in Barangay La Opinion, Nabua, Camarines Sur.   The operation, conducted on November 6, 2025, between 5:00 AM and 7:40 AM, was carried out under the CIDG Flagship Projects "Oplan Paglalansag Omega" and "Oplan Big Bertha." Operatives from the CIDG Camarines Sur Provincial Field Unit (lead unit), 95th Special Action Company of the 9th Special Action Battalion, PNP SAF Cam Sur, and Nabua Municipal Police Station, executed a search warrant against 44-year-old Lito Benegas y Obis, a jobless resident of Zone 5, Barangay La Opinion, Nabua, Camarines Sur.   The search warrant, issued by Hon. Martessa E. Nuylan-Rodrigueza, led to the discovery of the following items:   For Violation of R.A. 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act):...

CIDG-Albay Seizes Illegal Firearm in Pio Duran Operation

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Pio Duran, Albay – Joint operatives from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Albay Provincial Field Unit (PFU), in coordination with other law enforcement units, successfully implemented a search warrant this morning, November 5, 2025, resulting in the seizure of an illegal firearm and ammunition.   The operation, conducted under "Oplan Paglalansag Omega," the flagship project of the CIDG, targeted Ricky Pelecia y Panteriore, also known as “Goyo,” a 40-year-old single farmer residing in Purok 4, Sitio Matanag, Barangay La Medalla, Pio Duran, Albay.   The Search Warrant for violation of Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) was issued by Hon. Ignacio C. Barcillano Jr., Executive Judge of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Ligao City.   At approximately 7:20 AM, the joint operatives, composed of CIDG Albay PFU, RIU5-Albay, PIU Albay PPO, Ligao MLET, RSOU-RID5, RSOT RMU5, and Pio Duran Municipal Police Station,...

TDC BICOL BACKS VICE GANDA, SLAMS GOVERNMENT NEGLECT AND CORRUPTION

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TDC BICOL BACKS VICE GANDA, SLAMS GOVERNMENT NEGLECT AND CORRUPTION  Legazpi City – The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC)–Bicol has expressed support for TV host Vice Ganda’s recent remark about a school in Sorsogon, saying it reflects the grim reality faced by many public school teachers and students across the country. “Totoo ang sinabi ni Vice Ganda. Ang ipinakita niya ay repleksyon ng araw-araw na kalbaryo ng mga guro at mag-aaral, hindi lang sa Sorsogon, hindi lamang Bicol kundi sa maraming paaralan sa buong bansa. Maraming guro at estudyante ang nagtitiis sa masisikip, mainit at binabahang classroom o tumutulong bubong, bukod pa sa kakulangan sa mga learning materials. Hindi ito dapat ituring na pang-iinsulto, kundi panawagan sa pamahalaan na gampanan ang tungkulin nito sa edukasyon,” said Arnel Adtoon, spokesperson of TDC–Bicol and a teacher in Legazpi City. Adtoon said that the lack of learning materials, dilapidated classrooms, and inadequate facilities continu...

Albay Targets Swift Sabo Dam Rehab to End Masarawag Flood Woes

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Albay Targets Swift Sabo Dam Rehab to End Masarawag Flood Woes   Guinobatan, Albay – The Albay Provincial Government is moving quickly to address the persistent flooding in Barangay Masarawag, Guinobatan, with Governor Noel Rosal issuing a marching order to resolve the issue. Provincial Engineer Dante Baclao, in a recent interview with Bicol Net TV, confirmed that the cause of the flooding has been identified as a 30- to 40-year-old Sabo Dam in need of urgent repair.   Engineer Baclao assured the public that the provincial government is committed to accelerating the rehabilitation project. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Gigibuhon ta an pinakamadaling paagi.. kung kinakaipuhan ngunyan na taon mas maray.." ("We will do it in the easiest way possible... if it's needed this year, all the better.")   The aging Sabo Dam, designed to control sediment and water flow, has deteriorated over time, compromising its ability to protect the c...

Guinobatan Prepares for Typhoon "Ramil," Mayor Orders Pre-emptive Evacuation

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Guinobatan Prepares for Typhoon "Ramil," Mayor Orders Pre-emptive Evacuation   Guinobatan, Albay – The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Guinobatan is on high alert and has initiated pre-emptive evacuation measures in anticipation of the approaching Typhoon "Ramil," according to Mayor Ann Gemma Onjoco.   In an interview with Bicol Net TV, Mayor Onjoco stated that a meeting was held with barangay captains, and pre-emptive evacuations are scheduled to begin as early as 7:00 AM tomorrow. The primary goal is to relocate residents from flood-prone areas to ensure their safety.   The affected barangays include Maninila, Tandarora, Masarawag, and a portion of Muladbucad Grande, specifically the Sabasyaw area. Mayor Onjoco emphasized that some areas are experiencing localized flooding, and barangay captains have been instructed on the necessary actions to take.   The LGU expects to evacuate approximately 3,000 families. Mayor Onjoco assured residents that Guinobata...

Land Registry Finds No Records for Sunwest Lot; Governor Orders Fence Investigation

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Land Registry Finds No Records for Sunwest Lot; Governor Orders Fence Investigation Legazpi City, Albay – The Land Registration Authority (LRA) has confirmed that it has no available records for Lot No. 7745, situated in Tumpa, Camalig, the subject of a query from Albay Governor Noel E. Rosal regarding a potential land title issued to Sunwest Corporation.   In a letter dated October 16, 2025, Atty. Denbie S. Talan, Acting Register of Deeds II for the Province of Albay, informed Governor Rosal that upon checking, the registry does not have any entries whatsoever for Lot No. 7745. The letter was in response to Governor Rosal's query dated October 13, 2025, which was received by the LRA on October 15, 2025.   The LRA's response included a Certified True Copy of the Index Book for the Municipality of Camalig and a certification issued by the record section of the registry.   Following the LRA's findings, Governor Rosal has announced that an investigation will be l...

Albay Lifts Quarry Suspension After Audit, Sets Strict Compliance Rules

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Albay Lifts Quarry Suspension After Audit, Sets Strict Compliance Rules Albay, Philippines – Quarry operations in Albay are set to resume immediately following the issuance of Executive Order No. 43 by Governor Noel E. Rosal on October 16, 2025. The order lifts the temporary suspension that had been in place since September 1, 2025, under Executive Order No. 21.   The suspension was initially implemented to allow for a comprehensive audit and review of all active and pending quarry permits. The audit team submitted their findings and recommendations on October 14, 2025, paving the way for the resumption of operations.   According to the new executive order, permittees and operators found compliant during the audit process are now authorized to resume quarry operations, provided they continue to adhere to environmental safety and regulatory requirements.   However, the order also includes strict measures for those found in violation. Permittees and operators wh...

Red Flag: Sunwest Quarry Operating Without Fencing Permit and ECC

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Red Flag: Sunwest Quarry Operating Without Fencing Permit and ECC Camalig, Albay – Controversy surrounds the Sunwest, Inc. quarry project located on Lot No. 7745 in Barangay Tumpa, Camalig, Albay, as official documents reveal the absence of necessary permits.   In a letter dated October 14, 2025, Hon. Carlos Irwin G. Baldo, Jr., Municipal Mayor of Camalig, informed Albay Governor Hon. Noel E. Rosal that a review of records with the Municipal Engineering Office (MEO) showed that Sunwest, Inc. has neither filed a Fencing Permit application nor been issued such a permit for the mentioned property.   Adding to the concerns, a separate letter dated October 16, 2025, from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) V, signed by OIC Regional Director Geri-Geronimo R. Sañez, also informed Governor Rosal that after verifying their online system and official records, no Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) has been issued to Sunwest, Inc. for the fence constr...

Echoes of Warning: Constitutional Concerns Over 2024 Budget Resurface Amid Flood Control Controversy, Just as Lagman Predicted

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Echoes of Warning: Constitutional Concerns Over 2024 Budget Resurface Amid Flood Control Controversy, Just as Lagman Predicted Tabaco City, Philippines – Amid ongoing concerns about the effectiveness and potential corruption in flood control projects, a constitutional issue has resurfaced regarding the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA). This issue, flagged by then Congressman Edcel Lagman in a press statement on January 2, 2024, predicted potential problems arising from the ballooning of unprogrammed appropriations within the budget.   Lagman, in his statement, argued that the 2024 GAA suffers from a "constitutional infirmity" due to the bicameral conference committee's insertion of P449.5 billion in excess of the P281.9 billion in unprogrammed appropriations recommended by the President in the National Expenditure Program (NEP). He asserted that the President's failure to veto these excess items exacerbated the constitutional defect.   Lagman ...

Santo Domingo Mayor Vows Transparency, Improved Services After First 100 Days

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Santo Domingo Mayor Vows Transparency, Improved Services After First 100 Days   Santo Domingo, Albay – In a recent interview with Bicol Net TV, Mayor Bong Banda of Santo Domingo, Albay, discussed his accomplishments during his first 100 days in office and outlined his plans for the future.   Key Initiatives and Future Plans   Mayor Banda emphasized his commitment to continuing ongoing programs, maintaining cleanliness throughout Santo Domingo, and ensuring that all projects are completed according to plan. A major focus will be improving the town's water system to provide better service to residents.   "We will enhance our water system to ensure everyone benefits," Mayor Banda stated. "Transparency is a priority. Santo Domingo will be open about all programs aimed at improving our town."   Citizen Feedback and Accountability   To enhance accountability, Mayor Banda announced the upcoming launch of a mobile application that will allow residents t...

Defective Weighing Scales Destroyed in Daraga to Protect Consumers

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Defective Weighing Scales Destroyed in Daraga to Protect Consumers   Daraga, Albay – The Local Government of Daraga, through the Daraga Public Market in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Albay, conducted a ceremonial destruction of defective weighing scales on October 13, 2025, at the LGU grounds in Daraga, Albay.   The event was part of the Consumer Welfare Month celebration and involved the destruction of confiscated defective weighing scales.   According to Market Administrator Themis Lobete, 187 weighing scales were confiscated during "Operation Timbangan." Scales confirmed to be defective were destroyed, while others that could be recalibrated were returned to vendors after proper adjustment.   Lobete added that routine inspections of weighing scales in the public market and night market are regularly conducted to ensure accurate calibration of all scales.   The activity aims to combat fraud in the market,...

Lagman Opposes House Bill 4058, Citing Concerns Over Unprogrammed Appropriations and Debt

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Lagman Opposes House Bill 4058, Citing Concerns Over Unprogrammed Appropriations and Debt Tabaco City, Philippines – In a statement released today, Representative Cielo Krisel B. Lagman of the 1st District of Albay voiced her opposition to House Bill 4058, also known as the General Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2026. Despite acknowledging some budgetary reforms within the bill, Lagman expressed deep reservations regarding unprogrammed appropriations and the nation’s growing debt. Lagman stated, "I vote 'No' to House Bill 4058 despite some budgetary reforms, both procedural and substantive, that we have adopted which I hope will be sustained and improved in succeeding Congresses." Her primary concern revolves around the "continuing presence of unprogrammed appropriations." Lagman fears the potential for abuse and indicated a preference for scrapping such appropriations altogether. She stipulated that she would only consider endorsi...

Daraga LGU Salutes Mr. Earth, Gears Up for Disaster Preparedness

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Daraga, Albay – The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Daraga, led by Mayor Victor U. Perete, conducted its flag raising ceremony today, October 13, 2025.   The ceremony was attended by Mayor Victor U. Perete, heads of various departments, personnel from the Daraga Municipal Police Station (DMPS), and LGU employees.   In his message, Mayor Perete assured that LGU employees would undergo training as part of the preparations for natural calamities such as earthquakes. He emphasized the importance of readiness and preparedness for all LGU personnel.   During the ceremony, Jhon Arvy M. Mallapre was recognized for representing the province of Albay in the Mister Earth Philippines 2025 competition held at the Jagna Cultural Center, Bohol. Mallapre won the title of Mister Earth Philippines Charity 2025.   Mayor Perete and the LGU of Daraga extended their congratulations to Mallapre for his achievement and for bringing pride to the province. |...

Damaged Lahar Control Structure Identified as Potential Cause of Masarawag Flooding

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Guinobatan, Albay – The Albay Provincial Safety and Emergency Office (APSEMO), led by OIC Roderick Mendoza, has identified a damaged lahar control structure as a potential cause of the recent flooding in Barangay Masarawag, Guinobatan. The discovery offers a promising lead for the Provincial Government of Albay in addressing the persistent flooding issues in the area.   According to APSEMO's findings, the damaged structure is part of a series of older structures built in the 1980s under the Comprehensive Disaster Preparedness Around Mayon Volcano Program. These structures were designed to hold debris during lahar flows, providing a crucial layer of protection for Barangay Masarawag. OIC Mendoza emphasized that the breached area, now believed to be the source of the current flooding, is located several kilometers away from the main Maninila-Masarawag channel.   Governor Noel Rosal expressed his optimism following the APSEMO report. In a recen...