UNHCR Philippines Hosts 3rd Refugee Film Festival Highlighting Youth Narratives of Resilience

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Philippines recently organized the 3rd Refugee Film Festival at San Beda University-Manila, spotlighting youth-driven films centered around the theme "Strengthening Spaces of Resilience and Hope." Out of 39 submissions from across the country, the documentary "Sa Simula ng Wala" by Daghili Pictures from the University of Makati secured first place. The runner-up award was given to "Wala’y Dagat Dinhi" by Pelikulang Daluyong of Laguna University, while "Akong Paboritong Pastil" by Duwende Films from Davao earned third place. The winning documentary narrates the life of an undocumented adult foundling in the Philippines, delving into complex issues of identity and legal recognition. Other entries shed light on the experiences of internally displaced persons and the preservation of cultural resilience amid displacement. In addition to the competitive screenings, the festival featured the documentaries "We Dare to Dream," focusing on refugee Olympic athletes, and "Peace by Chocolate," which recounts the inspiring journey of a Syrian family rebuilding their lives in Canada. These screenings were followed by engaging discussions with refugees, academics, and human rights advocates. The panel of judges included UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Atom Araullo, filmmaker Ditsi Carolino, officials from the Department of Justice, and faculty members from San Beda University. The event was held in observance of World Refugee Day and organized in collaboration with Pathways Pilipinas, DOJ-RSPPU, Uniqlo Philippines, among others.

Two Key Suspects in Missing Sabungeros Case Apprehended Abroad, Returned to Philippines

Two individuals regarded as crucial links in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of several sabungeros have been taken into police custody, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo announced on Thursday. The PNP identified the detainees as siblings related to one of the accused and whistleblower Julie "Dondon" Patidongan. The siblings were apprehended abroad and repatriated on July 22. According to Fajardo, one suspect was identified in CCTV footage withdrawing cash using an ATM card belonging to one of the missing sabungeros. The other was recorded escorting a victim during an alleged abduction incident. One of the men was detained under an existing robbery warrant, while the other was arrested due to falsification of identity on his passport. The police confirmed that these arrests were coordinated with the Bureau of Immigration, ensuring legality and proper procedure. The case involves 34 cockfighting enthusiasts reported missing between 2021 and 2022. Authorities suspect the disappearances stemmed from kidnappings tied to disputes over match fixing or cheating in cockfighting competitions. Whistleblower Patidongan has alleged that the missing individuals were buried in Taal Lake. He further accused businessman Atong Ang of orchestrating the kidnappings and implicated actress Gretchen Barretto in the affair. Both parties have denied the accusations. The PNP continues its probe into the matter as more details emerge.

Cultivating a Deep and Lasting Relationship with Christ: Insights from the Easter Gospel

In the Gospel reading for Monday of the Third Week of Easter (John 6:22-29), many sought out Christ after witnessing His miracle of feeding five thousand people with just a few loaves of bread. Some even crossed bodies of water to find Him, demonstrating a deep desire to connect with Him. This response from the crowd serves as a model for all believers. It highlights the importance of nurturing a strong and lasting attraction to Christ. Faithful individuals are reminded to prioritize their spiritual relationship over earthly concerns, which often distract and diminish one’s focus on God. Achieving this requires the generous grace of God, which is readily available to all. Beyond receiving this grace, believers are encouraged to follow a structured spiritual regimen that strengthens their bond with God in every aspect—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Such a plan should incorporate various forms of prayer, including vocal, liturgical, ejaculatory, mental, and contemplative prayer. The goal is to maintain awareness of God’s presence even amid daily tasks and worldly engagements, ensuring that all actions are motivated by the desire to fulfill God’s will. Moreover, a commitment to sacrifice, penance, and purification is essential, given the continual challenges posed by personal weaknesses and external temptations. This spiritual discipline helps believers unify their faculties in service to God and others. Daily ascetical effort is vital, aimed not only at resisting evil but also at cultivating and reinforcing virtues. There is also an emphasis on expanding concern for others through personal evangelization and compassionate action within various contexts. Regular participation in the sacraments, especially the Holy Eucharist and Confession, plays a crucial role in sustaining a close connection to Christ, even when His presence feels distant. Ongoing spiritual formation is also necessary to support continuous growth in faith. Ultimately, the objective is to develop a profound sense of intimacy and attraction to God that surpasses all earthly attachments. Believers are cautioned to be vigilant against distractions, identifying their sources and devising strategies to remain steadfast in their spiritual journey.

Knife-Wielding Man Killed in Police Operation in Pavia, Iloilo

The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed on Monday that a man armed with a knife was fatally shot during a police operation in Pavia, Iloilo, last Friday. At a press briefing, PNP Chief Police General Nicolas Torre III stated that a police officer fired his service firearm in self-defense. He explained, \"One member of our police was compelled to use their service firearm to protect themselves.\" Following the shooting, the suspect received first aid and was transported to the nearest hospital with assistance from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office. Unfortunately, the man was declared dead upon arrival. Police reports indicate that the man’s family contacted emergency services after he reportedly threatened them. Although the suspect was only armed with a knife, the circumstances leading to the officer discharging his weapon are currently under investigation. General Torre added that the incident has prompted the PNP to consider arming officers with non-lethal tools such as batons or pepper spray to better manage similar situations in the future.

Twelve Police Officers Suspended Amid Investigation Into Missing Cockfighting Enthusiasts

MANILA, Philippines — In a decisive move to preserve the integrity of the ongoing probe into the disappearance of cockfighting enthusiasts, twelve police officers have been placed on preventive suspension for up to 90 days. This action aims to prevent any possible interference with witnesses as authorities continue their investigation into alleged police involvement and bribery. National Police Commission (Napolcom) Vice Chairman Rafael Vicente Calinisan emphasized that the suspension is a procedural measure rather than a punishment, stating, \"This is a tool by the NAPOLCOM to ensure the safety of witnesses and the integrity of the investigation.\" The announcement was made during a press conference on Monday, August 4. The officers suspended include Police Lieutenant Colonel Ryan Eliab Orapa, Police Major Mark Philip Cimborio Almedilla, and Police Colonel Jacinto Rodriguez Malinao Jr., among others. While eleven of them face charges of grave misconduct, irregularities in duty performance, and conduct unbecoming of a police officer, Colonel Malinao Jr. has been charged additionally with grave neglect of duty. These administrative actions stem from an affidavit filed by a key witness identified as Julie Patidongan, alias \"Totoy.\" Patidongan accuses the officers of involvement in illegal activities and collusion with alleged mastermind Charlie Chu Hai Ang, also known as Atong Ang, from whom they purportedly received protection money. Ang has denied these accusations. The suspended officers were ordered on August 1 to respond to formal charges within seven working days, with a pre-hearing conference scheduled for August 14. The suspension took effect immediately, with the officers not receiving their salaries during this period. The investigation into the \"missing sabungeros\" case has gained momentum since June when Patidongan claimed the victims—at least 34 cockfighting enthusiasts missing across Metro Manila and Luzon since 2021—were allegedly killed and buried in Taal Lake. These claims prompted the Department of Justice to conduct underwater searches and expand inquiries into potential police complicity. The complex case has also drawn public attention due to additional allegations linking high-profile individuals, though some have denied any involvement. Authorities continue to pursue the case with the aim of delivering justice for the missing individuals and their families.

Expert Urges Public to Prioritize Hand Hygiene and Device Cleaning to Prevent Infections

An infectious disease expert has underscored the importance of handwashing as a key preventive measure against infections, urging the public to adopt this practice consistently. Dr. Yvette Marie Barez, Chair of the Infection Control and Prevention Unit at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), highlighted that infections can occur anywhere — at home or in the workplace. "Prevention begins at home and continues at the office," she stated during her appearance on the Healthy Davao Media Forum held at SM City Davao. "We always advise people to prioritize infection prevention, with handwashing being the foremost step. Wash your hands before and after any activity," Dr. Barez emphasized. She further advised individuals to regularly disinfect objects frequently touched, particularly mobile devices. "Gadgets are breeding grounds for bacteria, especially since they often come into contact with hands that have touched various surfaces. This increases the risk of contracting illnesses such as gastroenteritis or conjunctivitis from contaminated phones," she explained. Dr. Barez also recommended cleaning cellphones immediately after use or when shared with others, particularly if the device has been placed on potentially dirty surfaces. "You should clean your cellphone after you return home or after use, especially if others handle it or if it was placed on a filthy table," she cautioned. Beyond cellphones, she warned that common touchpoints like doorknobs and elevator buttons are potential sources of infection. Citing a past H1N1 outbreak, she recalled, "The infection initially spread when an infected individual pressed the elevator button." Her guidance serves as a timely reminder for the public to maintain rigorous hygiene practices to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases.

Patrolman Dies After Motorcycle Accident and Being Struck by Bus in Quezon City

MANILA, Philippines — A patrolman lost his life following a motorcycle accident and subsequent collision with a passing bus in Cubao, Quezon City on the evening of August 1, police confirmed on Sunday. The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) identified the victim as Patrolman Arde Saavedra. Saavedra was en route to his duty station when his motorcycle struck an obstacle, causing him to fall near the intersection of P. Tuazon Boulevard and C. Benitez Street in Barangay Kaunlaran at approximately 9:55 p.m. CCTV footage obtained by authorities revealed that while Saavedra was lying on the road, he was immediately struck by a bus driven by Rafael Mapoy. The incident was promptly reported to the police around 10 p.m., and emergency responders transported Saavedra to the nearest hospital. However, he was pronounced dead on arrival at about 10:25 p.m. Mapoy is currently detained by authorities, and the case has been forwarded to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit (CIDU) of the QCPD for further examination. Officials continue to investigate the circumstances of the accident as part of their ongoing inquiry.

Eleven Indigenous Peoples Representatives Officially Sworn into Zamboanga City Government

On July 31, 2025, Zamboanga City held an official oath-taking ceremony to induct eleven newly certified Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (IPMRs) from various local villages. The event, presided over by Mayor Khymer Olaso at City Hall, signified the city’s formal recognition of these representatives following the guidelines of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Administrative Order 01, Series of 2021. Mayor Olaso emphasized that the certification process involved close coordination with the Indigenous Political Structures (IPS) within Zamboanga City’s identified villages, culminating in validation by the NCIP-Zamboanga City Office. He highlighted the significance of this step, stating, \"Their certification affirms their eligibility to represent their communities in local legislative bodies and other development platforms.\" The newly inducted IPMRs and their respective villages include Anibal Qurais (Talon-Talon), Sattolnina Abba (Rio Hondo), Mutalib Hamis (Labuan), Jubail Buhaini (Taluksangay), Farida Pandeng (Lamisahan), Halima Hamja (Manalipa), Jul Husin (Dita), Peter Mandag (Ayala), Sahdia Akbar (Calabasa), Alih Daud (Tigtabon), and Ruel Diam (Tugbungan). Reaffirming his administration’s dedication to inclusive governance, Mayor Olaso pledged support for increased indigenous involvement in policymaking and community development. The ceremony was also attended by Councilor Aida Paniorotan, the Indigenous Peoples representative in the City Council, Executive Assistant Abdulwakil Caoile Kasim, and officials from the NCIP.

Dumanjug Mayor Offers P300,000 Reward for Arrest of Suspected Criminals Involved in Drug and Violent Crimes

Mayor Guntrano "Gungun" Gica of Dumanjug, Cebu, has announced a P300,000 reward for information that will lead to the apprehension of three individuals wanted for illegal drug distribution and other serious crimes in southern Cebu. The announcement was made via a Facebook post on Sunday, August 3, 2025, alongside a deadline urging the suspects to surrender by Friday, August 9. The mayor identified the primary suspect as Canorio Antiga from Cantolaroy, Sibonga, while naming Flordeliz Padayao Salazar and Maria Cecelia Lopez Padayao, both from Barangay Tubod-Dugoan in Dumanjug, as his accomplices. Antiga and his associates are reportedly implicated in several crimes including murder, arson, and robbery. Authorities allege they are responsible for a fatal house fire and the killing of a barangay secretary in Tubod-Dugoan. Previously incarcerated at the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center for murder, Antiga is said to have continued his illicit drug operations even while imprisoned. According to Mayor Gica, their unlawful activities escalated after Antiga's release in 2024. Mayor Gica urged the suspects to turn themselves in to the Dumanjug police station before the August 9 deadline. The financial reward will be granted to anyone who provides credible and verifiable information that leads to their capture.

Police Launch Investigation After Albuera Barangay Captain and Driver Shot

Colonel Dionisio Apas Jr., director of the Leyte Police Provincial Office (LPPO), has ordered an immediate inquiry into the shooting incident involving a barangay captain and his driver in Albuera town on Saturday, August 2, 2025. "We strongly denounce this violent act," Colonel Apas stated. "The LPPO is committed to following every lead to ensure those responsible are identified and brought to justice." He further assured the public that all necessary measures are underway to determine the motive behind the attack, pinpoint the suspects, and secure justice for the victims. The victims, a 41-year-old barangay captain known as alias "Toto" and his 21-year-old driver alias "Jojo," were traveling in a white Ford Ranger from Ormoc City to Barangay Tabgas when unidentified assailants opened fire from a roadside position using firearms of undetermined caliber. Both sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving medical care. Authorities have obtained an initial witness statement describing the suspects fleeing the scene on a single black motorcycle immediately after the shooting, the provincial police office reported. Dragnet operations are underway in coordination with police units from neighboring areas to facilitate the prompt capture of the perpetrators.