Gapan City Mayor Cracks Down on Vendors Using Faulty Weighing Scales

Gapan City Mayor Joy Pascual has expressed strong disapproval of market vendors found using tampered weighing scales, emphasizing zero tolerance for any form of cheating in the marketplace. Addressing the issue directly, Mayor Pascual stated, \"To those caught using faulty scales, you should be ashamed. The true victims here are the families buying your goods, being shortchanged because of your deception. It's not just your reputation at stake, but that of the entire Gapan community, which deserves better from our local market vendors.\" She further appealed, \"I am personally urging all vendors to cease any fraudulent weighing practices. I will not allow such misconduct in our market.\" To ensure fairness, the mayor announced the possibility of implementing daily inspections of market scales to prevent continued cheating. She also warned that should these violations persist, she will publicly identify the vendors involved, aiming to protect consumers from being defrauded. \"Next time, I will reveal the names of those responsible so customers will know whom to avoid. I want to stop this unfair practice, so let us all commit to doing what is right,\" she remarked firmly. Mayor Pascual’s stance highlights a commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and promoting integrity within the local marketplace.

BJMP Appoints New Officer in Charge Following Prisoner Protest at Negros Occidental Jail

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology-Negros Island Region (BJMP-NIR) has appointed Senior Inspector Raymund Aro as the new officer in charge of the Negros Occidental District Jail located in Bago City. This leadership change follows an eight-hour demonstration by persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) demanding the removal of former jail warden Chief Inspector Crisyrel Awe. The protest occurred days after a security breach on August 24, when a homemade .45-caliber pistol, along with a magazine and seven bullets, was thrown over the jail’s perimeter wall. Two inmates were identified as the intended recipients of the weapon, prompting authorities to isolate them to prevent potential retaliation. BJMP-NIR spokesperson Senior Inspector Juniven Rey Umadhay confirmed that both inmates are currently subject to disciplinary proceedings while the investigation into the incident continues. The inmate protest concluded peacefully at 4:30 p.m. on August 28, following negotiations led by Senior Superintendent Mary Rose Laguyo and Superintendent Ruth Estales, assistant regional directors of BJMP-NIR. Chief Superintendent Brendan Fulgencio, director of BJMP-NIR, is scheduled to visit the facility to assess the situation firsthand. Chief Inspector Crisyrel Awe has voluntarily stepped down and will be reassigned to the regional bureau. Senior Inspector Aro, as the new officer in charge, has pledged to restore order and enhance the safety of both inmates and personnel during the ongoing investigation. Human rights group Kapatid has reported that the jail houses 24 political prisoners, including 77-year-old Father Frank Fernandez, a peace consultant of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines. The facility comprises 31 dormitories: 24 regular dormitories, six reserved for convicted prisoners, and one isolation dormitory.

Governor Baricuatro Urged to Provide Clear Financial Details Amid Cebu Debt Claims

Governor Baricuatro recently claimed that Cebu Province is burdened with a P1.1 billion debt, primarily linked to infrastructure projects. However, the public has been left seeking more precise information, including the timing and purpose of these debts, their overdue status, and whether the provincial government is currently struggling with liquidity issues or facing financial insolvency. Questions remain as to whether there is a genuine crisis of financial mismanagement and deprivation inherited from the previous administration or if these allegations are partly exaggerated. Some suggest these accusations may be influenced by past conflicts involving former Governor Gwen, compounded by official reports citing provincial poverty from national statistics. Citizens deserve an accurate and transparent account of Cebu’s fiscal status. Governor Baricuatro has the authority and access to public records to provide detailed, evidence-based disclosures rather than the broad accusations presented during the electoral campaign. Such transparency is crucial if the concern over the province's financial health is to be taken seriously. Observers note the possibility that the allegations could be part of a broader strategy aimed at weakening Gwen's political standing beyond the recent election, potentially in preparation for the 2028 political cycle. Regardless, Governor Baricuatro must move beyond blaming the past after her first 100 days in office and focus on addressing any genuine fiscal challenges facing the province. While it remains important to investigate any alleged wrongdoing from the previous administration, proactive measures to rectify issues and improve governance are now the priority. Governor Baricuatro can also learn valuable lessons from Gwen’s tenure, identifying pitfalls and areas for improvement that could strengthen provincial management going forward. Separately, the sudden removal of Police General Nicolas Torre III as PNP chief has sparked speculation. Appointed only in May, Torre was relieved amid unofficial claims of overstepping authority in reassigning officers and refusing a large-scale arms purchase backed by the DILG chief. Known for orchestrating the arrest of Pastor Quiboloy and transferring former President Duterte to the International Criminal Court, Torre’s dismissal raises questions about whether this move signals a punitive action or a reassignment. As these leadership changes unfold, both in local government and national police, clarity, transparency, and accountability remain at the forefront of public discourse.

Ang Abellana National School Alumni Federation Announces Grand Reunion 2025 with Cowboy Theme

The Ang Abellana National School Alumni Federation Inc. (ANSAFI) has officially announced the Grand Reunion scheduled for October 26, 2025, at the USJ-R Coliseum, Basak Campus. This year’s event will embrace a nostalgic cowboy and cowgirl dress code, promising a day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and memorable bonding experiences. The reunion will run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., packed with various games, raffles, and surprise activities designed to engage and entertain attendees throughout the day. "Every reunion is a chance to relive the spirit of ANS - the camaraderie, the lessons, and the joy that shaped who we are today. We invite all alumni, from every batch, to be part of this celebration of heritage and unity," stated ANSAFI President Roy Melgo. Registration for the event is set at Php150, which grants participants access to the entire day’s festivities, allowing former classmates and mentors to reconnect and share cherished moments. For more details, alumni are encouraged to reach out to their batch presidents or contact the ANSAFI secretariat directly through President Roy Melgo at 0977-856-4729 or Secretary Abbie Berezo at 0956-942-6009. Alumni are advised to mark their calendars and prepare their best boots for an unforgettable ANS reunion experience.

Light Aircraft Makes Emergency Landing in Isabela Cornfield; All Passengers Safe

REINA MERCEDES, Isabela — A light aircraft operated by WCC Aviation Inc. was forced to execute an emergency landing Thursday around noon in a cornfield located in District 1 village while flying coastal towns in Isabela, police authorities reported. The SkyPasada plane, bearing tail number RP-C1018, departed from Cauayan Domestic Airport at 11:40 a.m. and was headed to Maconacon when the pilot encountered a mechanical problem, prompting the urgent maneuver. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines has yet to release an official statement regarding the exact cause of the emergency landing. The aircraft landed safely in the field, and all seven individuals on board, including the pilot, escaped unharmed. Police identified the passengers as Dante Cabaldo, 48; Floremia Cabaldo, 81; Rogelio Lagula, 54; Perfecta Jacinto; Olegario Cortes; and Norberto Centeno—all residents of Divilacan, Isabela. The pilot was Captain Alito Getalaga, age 56. Authorities confirmed that the pilot's quick decision to land was due to mechanical failure. An investigation is currently underway to determine the specifics of the incident. Local residents commended the pilot for his composure and skill in ensuring the safety of all passengers. One local, Rey Corpuz, remarked, "Great job as the pilot knows best."

Zamboanga City Provides Rice Aid to Flood-Affected Families in Tumaga

The Zamboanga City government, led by Mayor Khymer Olaso, recently distributed 25-kilogram sacks of rice to families affected by recent flooding in Tumaga. The relief effort, organized by the City Social Welfare and Development Office, took place on Saturday, August 30, at the Tumaga Barangay Hall. A total of 407 families displaced by the August 25 floods across areas including Calayan, Ayudahan, San Ignacio Filinvest, Paraiso, AN Homes, Frog Island, and Gallera Drives received the aid. In his remarks, Mayor Olaso assured the community that the city government remains committed to supporting those impacted by the disaster. He emphasized that addressing the drainage problems in the Filinvest area of Tumaga would be a top priority moving forward. "We are considering allocating funds to develop a more effective and efficient drainage system in the affected areas," Olaso stated, underscoring the administration's dedication to preventing similar incidents in the future.

Sky Pasada Aircraft Makes Emergency Landing in Reina Mercedes with No Injuries

Reina Mercedes, Isabela — A Sky Pasada aircraft was compelled to perform an emergency landing in an open field here Sunday, safely bringing seven individuals on board to the ground. The plane, bearing tail number RP C1018, was traveling from Cauayan City Airport to Maconacon, Isabela, when the pilot, Capt. Alito Getalaga, opted to land following a mechanical malfunction. Authorities confirmed that none of the passengers sustained injuries. The group included Dante Cabaldo, Floremia Cabaldo, Rogelio Lagula, Perfecta Jacinto, Olegario Cortes, and Norberto Centeno, all residents of Divilacan, Isabela. Local law enforcement from the Reina Mercedes Police Station have initiated an investigation into the incident to determine the exact cause of the mechanical failure and ensure continued safety measures for future flights.

Quezon City Resident Urges Mayor Belmonte to Pursue Legal Action Against Flood-Inducing Projects

A resident of Quezon City has appealed to Mayor Joy Belmonte to initiate legal proceedings against parties behind the chronic flooding that plagues the city, particularly following recent heavy inundations caused by what was described as a "light drizzle." The flooding severely affected key areas including Katipunan Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue, and Barangay Santo Domingo. In an open letter widely circulated online, the resident expressed frustration over the national government’s flood control initiatives, which he labeled as "lavishly funded, magnificently useless, and masterfully corrupt." He directed sharp criticism toward senators, House representatives, and project contractors, accusing them of profiting from substandard infrastructure while endangering public safety. He emphasized the local impact of these failures, stating, "Although these wrongdoers are agents of the national government, it is your constituents who are drowning. Your people face risks such as leptospirosis, electrocution, and even death because of these flawed projects. To dismiss the problem as outside your responsibility would be an abdication of true local leadership." The letter urged Mayor Belmonte to take a proactive stance by filing cases against the contractors for jeopardizing lives and holding legislators accountable for approving questionable budgets. "Demonstrate to Quezon City residents that your leadership extends beyond distributing relief assistance after floods — seek justice ahead of the next disaster," the resident wrote. As a symbolic warning, he suggested displaying wrongdoers at the Quezon Monument, cautioning that failure to act would result in continued flooding, turning the city into what he called "the nation’s largest aquarium." Concluding his message, the resident implored, "Madam, the time has come to drain the swamp — not the political metaphor, but the literal swamp engulfing your city now." This public appeal highlights growing concerns over urban flooding and accountability in infrastructure management within Quezon City.

Taytay Establishes Independent Municipal Veterinary Services Office

Taytay Councilor Tobit Cruz expressed his approval following the final reading and passage of an ordinance establishing the Municipal Veterinary Services Office. He emphasized that this development marks a significant shift, as the veterinary office will operate independently rather than as a branch under the Agriculture Office. "This new office will bolster Taytay's efforts to enforce its responsible pet ownership and animal welfare ordinances," Cruz stated. The office will oversee the municipal animal pound and expand the scope of veterinary services available to residents. Among the enhanced services planned are spaying and neutering of animals, along with the administration of anti-rabies vaccinations. These initiatives aim to improve overall public health and animal care within the community.

Ahmed Cuizon Appointed to Lead Cebu South and North Bus Terminals

On Monday, September 1, 2025, the Provincial Board of Cebu sanctioned a resolution appointing Ahmed Cuizon as the head of both the Cebu South Bus Terminal (CSBT) and Cebu North Bus Terminal (CNBT). These terminals are located within Cebu City but serve different areas; CSBT is situated along N. Bacalso Avenue, while CNBT is found in the North Reclamation Area. Before this appointment, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro had not named a formal administrator for these terminals since taking office. Cuizon’s role is under a contract of service starting from July through December, with a monthly salary aligned to Salary Grade 22 amounting to ₱78,000, as per the Department of Budget and Management guidelines. Cuizon brings a wealth of experience to this position. He is a former radio station anchor and newspaper writer in Cebu. He has also served as the public affairs manager at Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) and was appointed as Director of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in Region 7 (LTFRB-7) from 2010 to 2014. Governor Baricuatro expressed strong confidence in Cuizon’s capabilities, emphasizing his extensive background and familiarity within the transport sector. She remarked, \"Ahmed was my choice because of his experience and expertise in leading the LTFRB. The transport sector is not new to him, and public utility vehicle operators already know him.\" The governor also outlined clear priorities for Cuizon, stressing the importance of maintaining cleanliness and ensuring smooth operations across both terminals to enhance the travel experience for passengers. She instructed, \"My instruction to him is to ensure that south bus operations are streamlined, that the facility is efficient, functional, and clean, and that both passengers and bus drivers and operators are well taken care of.\" Cuizon’s appointment marks a step towards improving the management of Cebu’s major bus terminals and providing better service to the traveling public.