Mauban Hosts Candelaria Officials for Benchmarking on Economic Initiatives

Mauban Mayor Erwin Pastrana warmly received officials from Candelaria, led by Mayor Ogie Suayan, during a recent benchmarking visit focused on local government innovations. The Candelaria delegation toured Mauban's Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS) to gain insights into the facility's operations and strategies designed to enhance economic development and increase revenue collection. Mayor Pastrana expressed his honor in hosting the group, emphasizing the value of exchanging knowledge and best practices between municipalities. "It is a positive development when local governments collaborate and learn from one another," he stated, highlighting the importance of intergovernmental support in driving community progress. The visit underscores the commitment of both towns to strengthen their local economies through shared learning and cooperative efforts.

Davao de Oro Enhances Disaster Response with Sign Language Training for Vulnerable Groups

Responders from Davao de Oro recently participated in a three-day training session held in Davao City focused on Basic Filipino Sign Language (FSL) and the appropriate handling of persons with disabilities during calamities. This initiative aims to improve disaster response services for vulnerable populations. Joseph Randy Loy, head of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) of Davao de Oro, highlighted the provincial government’s dedication to inclusive disaster management that addresses the needs of persons with disabilities, especially those with hearing and communication challenges. "We really need to be inclusive with our DRRM (Disaster Risk Reduction and Management) in the province of Davao de Oro," Loy stated. Data from the PDRRMO revealed that in approximately 20% of disaster responses, rescuers encountered individuals experiencing difficulty in hearing and communication. To further empower vulnerable groups, Loy also shared plans to provide persons with disabilities with emergency response training, including first aid and proper cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The training was facilitated by educators from the Special Education (Sped) program of the Department of Education’s Tagum City Division. A consultant with hearing impairment provided additional guidance to ensure effective learning and practical application of skills.

Anti-Corruption Rally Held in Tuguegarao as Nationwide Protests Mark Martial Law Anniversary

An anti-corruption rally was organized at Rizal Park in Tuguegarao City on Sunday, led by the volunteer group Kabataan Kontra Korapsyon (KKK), the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, and local civil society organizations. This event was part of a series of synchronized nationwide protests commemorating the anniversary of martial law. The Tuguegarao gathering coincided with a significant protest in Metro Manila, designed to amplify public demands for an end to corruption and governmental abuses. Marc Jesse, the lead convenor of KKK, emphasized the importance of the local rally as a platform for expressing community frustrations regarding ongoing issues of corruption and poor governance. \"In solidarity, the KKK has organized a similar event here in Cagayan to demonstrate the people\'s opposition to corruption and the exploitation by dishonest officials,\" Jesse said in a statement released on Saturday, September 20. The rally reflects broader efforts by civil society to hold authorities accountable and renew calls for transparency and justice on a significant historical occasion.

Davao City Reconstitutes Local School Board to Strengthen Educational Governance

On September 12, 2025, the City Government of Davao formally reconstituted its Local School Board (LSB) through Executive Order No. 15 to ensure compliance with the Local Government Code of 1991. This move aims to enhance the board’s role in managing educational resources and policies within the city. The LSB is primarily tasked with determining the supplementary annual budget required for the operation and maintenance of public schools. As stipulated in the order, the City Treasurer is authorized to disburse funds from the Special Education Fund, based on the prepared budget and in adherence to existing rules and regulations. Aside from financial oversight, the board will act as an advisory body to the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Education, Science and Technology, Arts and Culture. Its advisory scope includes assessing the need for local appropriations and their appropriate allocation for education purposes. Moreover, the board holds the authority to propose renaming public schools within Davao City’s jurisdiction, subject to approval by the Sangguniang Panlungsod. The newly formed board will be chaired by the city mayor, with the Department of Education Schools Division Superintendent serving as co-chair. Membership includes the chairperson of the City Council’s Committee on Education, Science and Technology, Arts and Culture; the representative from the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation; the president of the City Federation of Parents-Teachers Association; and representatives from both the teachers’ organization and the non-academic personnel of public schools in Davao City. This restructuring signifies the city government’s commitment to streamlined educational governance and efficient budget management to support public schools and improve educational outcomes.

Leni Robredo Engages with Visitors in Naga as Angat Buhay Team Joins Anti-Corruption Protest in Manila

Former Vice President and current Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo maintained a busy schedule on Fiesta Sunday, receiving numerous visitors at her office, including supporters from Pangasinan, students from PAREF Southridge, and diplomats from Spain. She expressed gratitude to her team for working during the holiday and shared updates via social media. "Office visitors this Fiesta Sunday: 📍 Supporters from Pangasinan 📍 PAREF Southridge Students 📍 The Consul General of Spain to the Philippines along with Honorary Consul Carlo Buenaflor Special thanks to the City Mayor’s Office Staff who came to work today," Robredo wrote in her Facebook post dated September 21, 2025. Meanwhile, while Robredo continued her official duties in Naga, her Angat Buhay volunteer network took part in an anti-corruption rally in Manila. The event, known as the Trillion Peso March, drew several well-known personalities, including Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Ion Perez, Jackie Gonzaga, Jasmine Curtis, Donny Pangilinan, and Darren Espanto. Angat Buhay commended the participants for their courage and dedication in a Facebook message, stating, "We salute your bravery, compassion, and love for the country. Thank you for standing up!"

Pateros Mayor Gerald German Pushes Through with People’s Day Amid Rain and Class Suspensions

Pateros Mayor Gerald German remained steadfast in serving the community during People’s Day, undeterred by adverse weather conditions and the suspension of classes and government office operations. "Tuloy-tuloy ang serbisyo, kahit walang pasok sa gobyerno!" German declared, emphasizing his commitment to uninterrupted public service. The mayor explained that despite the inclement weather, he was determined to ensure that vital assistance reached residents. The services made available during People’s Day included burial support as well as medical and hospitalization aid, helping to address the immediate needs of the local population even on a challenging day.

Fifteen Contestants Vie for Miss Bacolod MassKara 2025 Crown Amid Diverse Advocacies

BACOLOD City — The upcoming Miss Bacolod MassKara 2025 pageant will feature fifteen official contestants competing for one of the festival’s most anticipated titles. This event transcends traditional pageantry by highlighting not only grace and charm but also intelligence and meaningful advocacies championed by each candidate. The Miss Bacolod MassKara competition serves as a platform to celebrate Bacoleña pride, combining beauty with purpose. Organizers emphasize that it is "more than glitz; it is a platform where advocacies find space and power." The fifteen hopefuls present a wide range of social causes reflecting both personal journeys and broader community concerns. Among them, Kaye Luzuriaga promotes community health awareness inspired by her studies in medical technology. Jestine Nacionales is a strong advocate for Filipino farmers, supporting fair trade and producers' rights. Faith Marie Doronila uses her musical talents to raise awareness for marine conservation, while Ashley Bernadeth De Asis encourages open conversations around mental health. Jeremae Pacino focuses on preventing teenage pregnancy and developing youth programs through sports. Advocates for animal welfare include Janabea Gepana and Daniella Cheska Giltendez, who pledge to give a voice to the voiceless. Further advocacies include Eynna Mei Lu’s “Mind Matters” campaign promoting youth mental resilience and Sophia Kaye Zaragoza’s efforts to create employment opportunities for young people. Both Mary Angelique Faye Caballero and Ysabella Wuthrich focus on the arts, with Wuthrich highlighting animation as a healing medium. Other candidates include Roshyn Kate Jamantoc, who champions youth empowerment and leadership; Aleyssa Dionio, advocating for local vendors and grassroots entrepreneurship; Chezzy Laguna, honoring family breadwinners; and Ednalyn Garcia, who promotes body positivity and scoliosis awareness. Mayor Greg Gasataya underscored the qualities sought in the winner, describing a true Bacoleña as flexible, resilient, and adaptable—attributes that embody the spirit of the MassKara Festival. "What is important is that the winner will be able to represent the city well," the mayor emphasized. On September 20, the Bacolod Gugma Foundation Inc., the event organizer, conducted the candidates’ sashing and press presentation at SM City Bacolod. During the ceremony, special accolades were awarded to Sophia Kaye Zaragoza, who received the Legacy Media Award, and Ysabella Wuthrich, honored with the Digital Media Award.

Cotabato Governor Administers Oath to New League of Municipalities Officials

Cotabato Governor Emmylou "Lala" J. Taliño-Mendoza led the oath-taking ceremony for the newly elected officials of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) - Cotabato Chapter. The event took place on Monday, September 22, at the Provincial Governor’s Cottage within the Capitol Compound in Amas, Kidapawan City. Kabacan Mayor Evangeline P. Guzman was formally sworn in as the president of the federation. In her address, Governor Taliño-Mendoza encouraged the mayors to continue serving with dedication and integrity, emphasizing the importance of implementing programs that will contribute to the overall development of Cotabato province. The provincial government highlighted her call for local officials to uphold these values in their governance roles.

Mandaluyong City Advances Underground Wiring Project to Enhance Safety

Mandaluyong City Mayor Menchie Abalos has reaffirmed the city government’s commitment to transitioning from hazardous overhead utility cables to a safer underground system. This move is part of the ongoing Phase 1 of the Integrated Underground Wiring and Utilities Structure (IUWUS) Plan. "As part of the continuation of Phase 1 of the IUWUS Plan, we recently conducted cable grooming at the corner of Blumentritt and Saniboy Streets in Barangay Hulo," Mayor Abalos said, emphasizing efforts to improve utility infrastructure. The city aims to mitigate the dangers that overhead "spaghetti" wires pose to motorists and the community at large. By relocating power lines and utility cables underground, the administration hopes to create a safer, cleaner, and more organized environment for residents. "The objective of implementing IUWUS Phase 1 is to transfer electricity and utility cables underground to ensure the safety, cleanliness, and orderliness of Mandaluyong’s surroundings," added Mayor Abalos. This initiative underscores Mandaluyong City’s proactive approach to urban safety and infrastructure modernization, prioritizing public welfare through improved utility management.

Rotary Clubs Provide Relief and Emotional Support to Fire Victims in Bacolod City

In the aftermath of the devastating fire that struck Barangay 27 in Bacolod City, the Rotary Club of Bacolod-Marapara, together with the Rotaract Club of Marapara, mobilized efforts to assist the affected families. Under the leadership of Club President April Kitagawa, volunteers distributed vital supplies to 100 families currently residing at the Apolinario Mabini Elementary School shelter. Recognizing that recovery extends beyond material needs, the club’s Vice President, Dr. Dona Lastima—a psychologist—collaborated with the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) to organize a play therapy session for 50 children affected by the disaster. This initiative provided a therapeutic environment where the young survivors engaged in guided activities designed to facilitate emotional processing and promote healing from trauma. These combined efforts highlight the commitment of the Rotary and Rotaract clubs to not only deliver immediate assistance but also address the psychological well-being of those impacted by the fire.