Historic San Agustin Church in Intramuros Faces Structural Concerns After Flooding and Water Seepage

The San Agustin Church complex in Intramuros, Manila, experienced significant flooding and water seepage following the combined effects of storms Crising (Wipha), Dante (Francisco), the southwest monsoon, and Typhoon Emong (Co-may) on July 24. This marks the second flood event in two years, following last year’s inundation caused by Typhoon Carina (Gaemi). Floodwaters up to knee height affected several parts of the centuries-old UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the museum lobby, cloisters, exhibition halls, and church interior. Contrary to initial assumptions, the flooding was not due to blocked drainage but was attributed to the failure of high-capacity centrifugal pumps installed in 2012. Four of these pumps overheated and ceased functioning after continuous use over three days. Fr. Ricky Villar, director of the San Agustin Museum, noted that some pumps had failed previously and were repaired, but replacement is now under consideration. The Manila city government assisted in pumping out the floodwaters, with Mayor Isko Moreno overseeing recovery operations. Beyond flooding concerns, water seepage through the ceiling was observed for the first time beneath the church's belfry, affecting the "ante coro" on the second level and the area underneath the choir loft. Visual documentation shows water flowing like a small waterfall from cracks in the vaulted ceiling. Ivan Henares, director-general of the UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines (UNACOM), described the seepage as "very alarming," warning it may indicate deeper structural damage that could lead to collapse if left unaddressed. He urged for prompt and comprehensive retrofitting and restoration efforts by the Philippine government to safeguard the church’s heritage value. With the safety of worshippers and visitors at stake, temporary closure of the church is being considered. A multiagency assessment involving the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), National Historical Commission of the Philippines, National Museum, UNACOM, and the Intramuros Administration has been initiated to evaluate the complex’s condition. The NCCA’s Ino Manalo, the Historical Commission’s Regalado Trota Jose Jr., and other cultural officials participated in an emergency meeting on July 25 to discuss next steps. Fr. Villar emphasized the importance of this step, citing that the church has not undergone major structural interventions or seismic retrofitting since its completion in 1604. He highlighted additional challenges, including damp walls caused by a rising water table that threaten the adobe construction and drainage systems surrounding Intramuros. Efforts are ongoing to secure funding from the Office of the President and Congress to support restoration amid increasing climate-related risks. The coordinated response aims to preserve San Agustin Church, one of the Philippines’ most treasured historical landmarks and an active place of worship, ensuring its endurance for future generations.

Mindanao Students Encounter Significant Barriers to Quality Education, Youth Leader Highlights

Arizza Ann S. Nocum, co-founder of the Kristiyano-Islam Peace Library (KRIS), has drawn attention to the unique challenges faced by students in Mindanao, which impede their access to quality education. In an interview, Nocum stressed that the condition of school facilities and the difficulty in reaching these institutions are critical issues that demand immediate attention. "The infrastructure of schools and the accessibility to schools is something that needs to be worked on," she noted. These obstacles differentiate Mindanao learners from their peers in other parts of the country, underscoring the necessity for targeted efforts to bridge educational disparities. Initiatives aimed at enhancing physical school resources and improving transportation networks could play a pivotal role in fostering more inclusive development and equitable learning environments across the region.

Southwest Monsoon Brings Continued Heavy Rainfall Across Metro Manila and Surrounding Regions

MANILA – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced that the southwest monsoon, locally known as "habagat," will continue to cause widespread rainfall across much of the country. In its latest 24-hour forecast released at 4 a.m. on Sunday, PAGASA reported ongoing wet conditions particularly affecting Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro, where occasional showers are expected. Metro Manila, along with the Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Central Luzon, Ilocos Region, and Mimaropa, will experience cloudy skies accompanied by scattered rain showers and thunderstorms. Other areas of the Philippines are likely to see partly cloudy to cloudy conditions, with isolated rain or thunderstorms attributable to the monsoon system. Authorities have issued warnings regarding the potential for flash floods and landslides due to the heavy rainfall. PAGASA also reported monitoring two tropical cyclones outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR): Tropical Depression Co-may, positioned approximately 875 kilometers northeast of extreme Northern Luzon, and Typhoon Krosa, about 2,480 kilometers east of the same area. Neither storm is expected to impact the country directly. Additionally, strong southwest winds are forecast over the northernmost parts of Luzon, resulting in rough coastal waters with waves reaching up to 3.4 meters. Moderate to rough sea conditions are also anticipated along the western coast of Luzon, prompting advisories for fishermen and operators of small vessels to exercise caution and take necessary safety measures.

Senator Lacson Criticizes P2 Trillion Flood Control Spending Amid Persistent Flooding Crisis

Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson has expressed serious concerns over the country's ongoing flooding problems despite the government allocating nearly P2 trillion for flood control initiatives since 2011.\n\nIn a message posted on X, formerly Twitter, Lacson pointed out the seemingly paradoxical relationship between rising floodwaters and the increasing annual flood management budget. He stated, "Isn\'t it absurd that the rise of floodwaters in our malas (unfortunate) country is directly proportional to the increase in the annual budget for flood management?"\n\nLacson highlighted the questionable utilization of these substantial funds by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), noting the lack of tangible progress despite an average daily expenditure of approximately P350 million over 15 years. He suggested that these funds could have been more efficiently used, explaining, "At US$5 million or P285 million per unit, we could have bought a Cutter Suction Dredger every day, with the remaining P65 million used for operating expenses and maintenance." These dredgers are vital for removing silt and debris from waterways, a key element in preventing floods.\n\nHis critique follows recent data from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, which reported at least 25 deaths, eight missing individuals, and over 3.85 million people affected by typhoons "Crising," "Dante," and "Emong," in addition to the enhanced southwest monsoon. Lacson described the human cost as evidence of a "completely unacceptable failure" in flood mitigation efforts.\n\nFurthermore, the senator questioned the fairness of budget allocations in the proposed 2025 national budget. He pointed out that one barangay in Oriental Mindoro was allocated P1.9 billion, while a small town in the same province received P10 billion for flood control—figures he deemed disproportionate and distorted.\n\nKnown for his role as a fiscal watchdog in the Senate, Lacson pledged to thoroughly examine the DPWH\'s flood control budget during the upcoming budget hearings. "I will grill the concerned officials on how these huge sums were allocated and what they have accomplished," he asserted.\n\nHe also called for enhanced transparency and accountability in the planning and execution of infrastructure projects, especially those related to disaster risk reduction. Lacson emphasized, "Lives are at stake. We deserve better than floods and wasted funds."

Russia Claims Seizure of Two Villages in Eastern Ukraine Amid Ongoing Fighting

Moscow's Defense Ministry announced on Saturday that Russian forces had seized control of two more villages in eastern Ukraine, notably including Maliivka in the Dnipropetrovsk region, indicating a continued Russian advance in the area. However, Ukrainian officials have not confirmed the loss of these territories, citing sustained and intense combat operations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy provided an overview of the frontline situation stretching over 1,000 kilometers, emphasizing that the logistics center of Pokrovsk remains a primary battleground. He further noted that Ukrainian troops achieved "successful actions" in the Sumy region on the northern border, despite recent Russian footholds there. Independent verification of these battlefield claims remains unconfirmed due to the complexity of the conflict. These clashes occurred shortly after the third direct talks between Russian and Ukrainian representatives in Turkey, aimed at conflict resolution. While some progress was reported regarding prisoner and casualty exchanges, no significant advancements toward a ceasefire or a leadership meeting were disclosed. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, their forces have captured Zelenyi Hai in Donetsk and Maliivka, a village just inside Dnipropetrovsk. Zelenyi Hai is described as a key Ukrainian defensive position guarding the administrative border of Dnipropetrovsk region. It is important to note that Dnipropetrovsk is not among the five regions Moscow claims as its own territory—the latter includes Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, and Crimea, annexed in 2014. Russia had previously reported crossing into Dnipropetrovsk last month and now says it controls at least two villages, although Ukrainian forces have consistently denied Russian territorial gains in that region. The Ukrainian General Staff reported intensive Russian attacks on Zelenyi Hai, with 11 strikes in 24 hours, while attempts to seize Maliivka were reportedly thwarted during 10 attacks. In his nightly video address, President Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine’s top military commander, Oleksandr Syrskyi, had identified Pokrovsk as an area needing "special attention" due to continuous assaults. Viktor Trehubov, a Ukrainian military spokesperson, described Russian attacks on Pokrovsk as "a small torrent...that simply does not stop." The fighting remains intense, reflecting the persistent volatility along the eastern front despite diplomatic efforts.

DOT Provides Relief Aid to Tourism Workers Affected by Monsoon Rains in Tanay, Rizal

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has delivered aid to tourism workers impacted by the recent monsoon rains in Tanay, Rizal. Approximately 300 individuals received food packages and essential supplies during the relief drive led by DOT-CALABARZON in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Support for the operation also involved the Office of Civil Defense CALABARZON, the Philippine Army, and the local government of Tanay. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized the department's dedication to ensuring no tourism worker affected by disasters is neglected, particularly in vulnerable communities. She stated via a social media post, \"These efforts form part of our continued commitment to ensure that no affected tourism worker is left behind, especially in communities most vulnerable to disaster.\" This distribution effort is part of a larger nationwide response by the DOT following weeks of harsh weather conditions that have damaged infrastructure and temporarily closed several tourism destinations across Luzon and the Visayas. In addition, the DOT has activated emergency response teams and launched a Tourist Assistance Call Center to monitor disaster-stricken areas and provide aid to travelers who may be stranded.

Four Luzon Dams Open Gates Amid Continuing Southwest Monsoon Rains

In response to ongoing Southwest Monsoon rainfall, four major dams in Luzon opened some of their gates on Sunday to regulate water levels, according to data from PAGASA. At Ipo Dam in Norzagaray, Bulacan, one gate was opened to 0.15 meters, discharging water at a rate of 33 cubic meters per second (cms). The reservoir water level (RWL) stood at 100.41 meters, approaching the spilling threshold of 101.10 meters. In Benguet, Ambuklao Dam had two gates open to 1.0 meter each, releasing water at 191.20 cms. Its RWL was recorded at 751.24 meters, nearing the normal high water level (NHWL) of 752 meters. Similarly, Binga Dam, also in Benguet, opened two gates at 1.0 meter, discharging 211.51 cms. Its RWL was at 574.10 meters, just below the NHWL of 575 meters. Further north, Magat Dam, straddling Isabela and Ifugao provinces, opened two gates to 3.0 meters, releasing water at 656.39 cms. Its reservoir level was measured at 185.84 meters, not far from the NHWL of 190 meters. PAGASA forecasts that the Southwest Monsoon will continue to affect several parts of the country. Regions such as Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro may experience intermittent rains, with moderate to heavy showers that could trigger flooding or landslides. Meanwhile, Metro Manila, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley, CALABARZON, other parts of the Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, and MIMAROPA might expect cloudy conditions with scattered rain and thunderstorms. The agency warned that flash floods and landslides remain a risk due to the persistent heavy rainfall.

Cypermethrin Identified as Possible Cause of Mass Fainting in Antique Schoolchildren

ANTIQUE – A toxicology investigation by the Department of Health (DOH) has pointed to cypermethrin, a pesticide, as the probable cause of a mass fainting event that affected close to 300 students in Barangay Pis-anan, Sibalom town on July 2. According to the DOH Toxicology Specialty Center at Western Visayas Sanitarium and General Hospital and confirmed by Sibalom Mayor Gian Carlo Occeña in a statement on August 2, environmental contamination from cypermethrin likely led to the incident. Mayor Occeña explained, \"Sufficient evidence indicates environmental contamination by cypermethrin within the school premises, likely resulting from airborne pesticide drift exacerbated by weather conditions.\" Cypermethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid commonly employed as an agricultural pesticide, particularly for rice and other crops, was detected on classroom walls, doors, and surrounding vegetation at Pis-anan National High School. This strongly suggests airborne dispersal of the chemical in the vicinity. The event provoked alarm as students from both Pis-anan National High School and Pis-anan Central Elementary School experienced respiratory difficulties, chest pain, vomiting, and chills after inhaling a foul smell described by witnesses as resembling \"rotten guava.\" The DOH toxicology report noted these symptoms align with acute exposure to pyrethroid pesticides, the chemical class to which cypermethrin belongs. Further tests revealed elevated levels of formic acid in urine samples from two students, indicating potential methanol exposure, a solvent sometimes used in pesticide formulations and fogging solutions. Mayor Occeña cautioned that the investigation is ongoing, with additional environmental samples still under laboratory analysis to better determine the contamination's source and scope. \"We continue to await these results, which are vital for correlating with the toxicological data already obtained,\" he said. The Sibalom local government is maintaining close cooperation with health and environmental agencies to safeguard student health and prevent recurrence of similar incidents.

DOH Strengthens Health Literacy Through Media Conference in Iloilo City

ILOILO City – In a decisive move to counteract health misinformation and drive positive behavioral change, the Department of Health (DOH) engaged media practitioners from Regions 6, 7, 8, and the Negros Island Region in a three-day conference held from July 30 to August 1, 2025, in Iloilo City. Organized by the DOH's Health Promotion Bureau, the event served as a platform to reinforce the department’s 8-Point Action Agenda and equip communicators with tools to effectively promote public health. Dr. Annabelle Yumang, Regional Director of DOH Region 6, highlighted the critical role of the media during the opening session, stating, \"It is truly your voice, your platforms, and your unwavering dedication that empower and inform our communities. The media serves not only as a conveyor of facts but also as a catalyst for meaningful behavior change.\" She stressed the urgency of addressing health-related misinformation, particularly concerning diseases like tuberculosis and malnutrition, which continue to challenge public health efforts. The conference also aligned with observances such as National Nutrition Month and National Disaster Resilience Month, addressing timely health concerns linked to these campaigns. HPB Health Education and Promotion Officer IV Jason Roque provided a comprehensive overview of the Health Promotion Framework Strategy, underscoring the importance of strategic communication in encouraging healthier lifestyles. Ma. Arlene Arbas, Division Chief of the Health Promotion Bureau, emphasized the importance of sustained media collaboration, noting, \"It is crucial to build strong and enduring relationships with the media in our shared mission to promote a healthier Philippines.\" Contributions from experts such as Mylin Mirasol Quiray of the Commission on Population and Development shed light on pressing demographic challenges affecting health behaviors, including the rise of adolescent pregnancies among minors, an expanding elderly population, and the implications of a below-replacement fertility rate on national development. The persistent issue of tuberculosis in Western Visayas was underscored, with estimates indicating over 22,000 cases in 2023—substantially higher than reported figures—highlighting the urgent need for improved public awareness and reporting. In parallel, the National Nutrition Council emphasized the detrimental effects of poor dietary habits on workforce productivity, attributing stress, fatigue, and chronic illnesses to unhealthy eating patterns. Framed within the administration’s \"Bagong Pilipinas\" governance agenda, the conference reinforced health literacy as a vital pillar for inclusive and sustainable national progress, positioning the media as essential partners in this endeavor.

DepEd Enhances Anti-Bullying Policies With Stricter Guidelines and Clearer Accountability

The Department of Education (DepEd) has strengthened its approach to combating bullying by issuing more rigorous rules that empower schools to prevent, manage, and resolve bullying cases with greater efficiency and transparency. Education Secretary Sonny Angara formally signed the revised implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 10627, also known as the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, on Monday. This update amplifies preventive strategies, clearly defines school responsibilities, and establishes an explicit accountability framework that ensures timely and fair handling of all bullying complaints. According to the new guidelines, all public and private basic education institutions—including community learning centers and overseas schools under DepEd’s jurisdiction—are now required to adopt and implement a standardized anti-bullying policy. The revised IRR mandates comprehensive school-wide prevention initiatives, early intervention efforts, and an improved system for processing complaints and appeals. It explicitly outlines the duties of school administrators, teachers, parents and their substitutes, as well as learners themselves, to guarantee that no bullying incident goes unaddressed. Secretary Angara emphasized that the enhanced measures extend beyond reacting to bullying incidents. They also offer detailed definitions of precursor behaviors, patterns of repeated intimidation, and situations that may not cause physical harm but inflict considerable emotional pain or social exclusion—issues that frequently remain unreported. This holistic approach is designed to create safer and more supportive learning environments nationwide.