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NBI to probe flood control projects in Eastern Samar

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NBI PROBE. House Minority Floor Leader Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan of the 4Ps party-list has sought the assistance of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to look into flood control projects in Eastern Samar following allegations of irregularities and possible corruption involving flood control projects across the country. (Cong. Nonoy Libanan’s Facebook)

As requested by Rep. Libanan

NBI PROBE. House Minority Floor Leader Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan of the 4Ps party-list has sought the assistance of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to look into flood control projects in Eastern Samar following allegations of irregularities and possible corruption involving flood control projects across the country.
(Cong. Nonoy Libanan’s Facebook)

TACLOBAN CITY – House Minority Floor Leader Marcelino Libanan of the 4Ps party-list has formally sought the help of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in probing flood control projects in Eastern Samar, amid mounting reports of corruption and misuse of infrastructure funds in the province.

Libanan, a former representative of Eastern Samar, asked the NBI to look into projects implemented from 2020 to 2025, and even earlier if records allow.

“I have requested the NBI to conduct an investigation of all flood control projects in Eastern Samar from 2020 to 2025 and if possible, from 2019 to 2021,” Libanan told reporters on Saturday, Sept. 6.

His request follows reports that multi-million peso projects in Hernani and Llorente were declared completed on paper but remain to have started following reports of ghost flood control projects in various parts of the country.

The Hernani project, worth P192 million, and the Llorente project, worth P177 million, were both supposed to be finished in January this year.

Eastern Samar Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales backed Libanan’s move, pointing to questionable flood control projects in Oras town. At least four projects in remote barangays of Oras, each worth P48.9 million, were supposedly completed but may be spurious.

Gonzales added that Oras appeared to have received a disproportionate share of funding. From 2020 onward, the town allegedly cornered over P1 billion in flood control allocations—more than 90 percent of the province’s total budget—despite nearly all 22 municipalities and Borongan City suffering from perennial flooding, particularly Dolores, Jipapad, and Maslog.

“I want to know what’s so special about Oras that it managed to corner more than 90 percent of flood control projects from 2021 to 2022,” Gonzales said, vowing to personally inspect the sites.

NBI-Eastern Visayas Regional Director Atty. Emeterio Dongallo Jr. confirmed receiving Libanan’s request and assured a fair but firm investigation.

“We will make sure that those responsible for these reported ghost flood control projects will be charged and, if found guilty, will be put behind bars,” Dongallo said. “We are talking here of billions of pesos—money that came from our people.”

He said their findings will be submitted to the Department of Justice for the possible filing of cases.

The controversy comes as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier raised alarm over anomalous flood control projects nationwide, revealing that only 15 contractors have cornered most of the contracts.

Libanan welcomed the President’s remarks and stressed that public vigilance is needed.
“The money wasted due to these ghost projects could have been used to rehabilitate vital infrastructure like the San Juanico Bridge or the Maharlika Highway in Samar,” he said.

Both Libanan and Gonzales vowed to pursue accountability to protect taxpayers’ money and ensure that flood control projects truly benefit the people.

JOEY A. GABIETA

Northern Samar showcases sustainable tourism gems at Philippine Travel Mart 2025

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NORTHERN SAMAR TOURISM GEMS. The province highlighted its top attractions during the recent Philippine Travel Mart in Manila, as the provincial government continues to roll out programs and activities to boost tourist arrivals in Northern Samar. (THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)
NORTHERN SAMAR TOURISM GEMS. The province highlighted its top attractions during the recent Philippine Travel Mart in Manila, as the provincial government continues to roll out programs and activities to boost tourist arrivals in Northern Samar.                       (THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)

TACLOBAN CITY – Northern Samar’s natural wonders took center stage at the 36th Philippine Travel Mart, where the province’s exhibit drew attention for featuring two of its most iconic and sustainable destinations—the Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park in Lavezares and the world-renowned Biri Rock Formations.

Governor Harris Ongchuan and Rep. Edwin Ongchuan led the provincial delegation at the SMX Convention Center in Manila, underscoring their administration’s commitment to positioning Northern Samar as a premier eco-tourism hub in Eastern Visayas.

Now on its 36th year, the Philippine Travel Mart is the country’s longest-running travel trade exhibition. Organized by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), this year’s event adopted the theme “Next Generation Tourism,” highlighting innovation, sustainability, wellness, and inclusivity.

For Northern Samar, choosing the Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park and Biri Rocks as banner attractions was both symbolic and strategic. The two destinations reflect the province’s long-standing investment in community-based and environmentally sustainable tourism projects.

The Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park, funded under the province’s Community-Based Eco-Tourism Livelihood Project, features an 83.9-meter bamboo-and-concrete boardwalk that allows visitors to immerse themselves in lush mangrove ecosystems. Beyond its scenic charm, the eco-park generates livelihood opportunities for nearby communities while promoting conservation of the Lalaguna Bay area.

Meanwhile, the Biri Rock Formations—majestic geological structures carved by waves and wind over 18 million years—remain one of the country’s most celebrated natural landmarks. Recognized by UNESCO as among the Seven Geological Wonders of the Philippines, the site attracts more than 100,000 visitors annually and continues to be a centerpiece of Northern Samar’s tourism portfolio.

Tourism is considered a key investment area in the province’s “bio-circular green economy” agenda, which seeks to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and community inclusivity.

“By showcasing our eco-park and rock formations, we are not just promoting destinations, but also our vision of sustainable tourism that creates opportunities for our people while protecting our natural heritage,” Gov. Ongchuan said.

With growing recognition at national platforms like the Philippine Travel Mart, Northern Samar is positioning itself as a model for eco-friendly tourism development in Eastern Visayas and beyond.

(JOEY A. GABIETA/ROEL T. AMAZONA)

80th Victory Day ceremony in Baguio City

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(From left) Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose Jr., and Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu pose with a plaque narrating the history of the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence in Baguio City during World War II.

Ambassador Carlson, Mayor Magalong lead

(From left) Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose Jr., and Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu pose with a plaque narrating the history of the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence in Baguio City during World War II.

Baguio City, September 4, 2025—On September 3, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong led a ceremony commemorating the 80th Victory Day at the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence in Camp John Hay. Together, they honored the shared sacrifices of Filipino and Allied forces during World War II and celebrated the enduring ties between the Philippines and the United States.

Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr. served as the guest of honor.
Victory Day marks the end of World War II in the Philippines. In the 80 years since standing shoulder-to-shoulder in battle, the Philippines and the United States have grown ever closer as friends, partners, and allies.

“The liberation of the Philippines during World War II was a triumph of the extraordinary bravery of Allied forces and the indomitable spirit of the Filipino people. From resistance movements that defied occupation to countless sacrifices made, their legacy is the freedom we cherish today,” Ambassador Carlson said in her remarks. “This shared struggle forged a special relationship between our two nations, rooted in mutual respect, trust, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and prosperity of future generations of Filipinos and Americans.”

“That surrender marked not only the end of World War II in the Philippines but also the triumph of courage, strength in spirit, and hope over tyranny and despair. For us in Baguio, this is more than just an event written in textbooks—it is part of our city’s living memory, a legacy carved into our very identity,” Mayor Magalong said. “As we remember that day and its significance to the world, we also honor the extraordinary sacrifices of the men and women—Filipino, American, and other allies—who fought courageously to restore peace and freedom.”

“Today must not merely be an ordinary memorial day.  It must be a day of deep reflection,” Secretary Teodoro said.  “If we do not learn from the lessons of the past, and think as much as we want that the world is a static place, if we do not have resolve, purpose, and unity in action in all facets of public and private life, even with individual behavior and discipline, then we have no business honoring those who have shed their blood.”

During the event, Ambassador Carlson announced the launch of a virtual tour of the historic U.S. Ambassador’s Residence.

Following the ceremony, Ambassador Carlson hosted a reception celebrating U.S.-Philippine friendship and the 249th anniversary of U.S. independence. “We begin a new chapter as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence and the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic relations in 2026,” Ambassador Carlson said. “The friendship, partnership, and alliance between the United States and the Philippines is a crucial part of that story because of the values we share such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” (PR)

Gamay Central Elementary alumni set for 12th grand homecoming

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GAMAY, Northern Samar — The Gamay Central Elementary School Alumni Association (GCESAA) is all set for its 12th Alumni Homecoming on September 12, 2025, ahead of the town’s annual fiesta celebration honoring patron saint Señor San Miguel de Arkanghel on September 14–15.

GCESAA president Adelwisa Lucero-Acebuche, Batch ’78 alumna and currently the Provincial Budget Officer of Northern Samar, said this year’s event carries the theme “Moving Forward Together.”

The day-long program will open with a Thanksgiving Mass at 5 a.m., where the alumni will also serve as novena sponsors.

A light breakfast and town parade will follow, with batches wearing their chosen shirt colors. A short program will then be held, including the presentation of alumni officers and ratification of the association’s constitution and by-laws.

To add excitement, a raffle draw with major and consolation prizes is also lined up. The alumni will likewise recognize living retirees and honor those who have passed with certificates of commendation.

Capping the celebration will be the much-awaited Search for Mr. & Ms. Alumni 2025, whose proceeds will go toward school projects such as supplies, a walkway, and a sound system, as well as future humanitarian missions to be conducted by alumni doctors and dentists.

(PETER D. PAREDES)

DILG boosts barangay anti-drug councils in EV

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TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in the region, together with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), held a two-day training to strengthen the capacity of Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs) across Eastern Visayas.

DILG Regional Director Arnel Agabe underscored the role of barangays as the first line of defense in the fight against illegal drugs, urging participants to improve strategies and ensure that BADACs are fully functional.

The sessions included updated guidelines, benchmarks, and community-based approaches under the BADAC 3.0 framework, with participants crafting localized action plans to reinforce the government’s campaign for drug-free communities.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

Northern Samar MSMEs to highlight local products at 25th Bahandi Trade Fair

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TACLOBAN CITY – Thirty-three micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Northern Samar will showcase their products at the 25th Bahandi Eastern Visayas Trade Fair, set from October 9 to 13, 2025, at the Megatrade Hall of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

The participating enterprises will feature a wide array of goods, including processed food, wearables, handicrafts, and eco-friendly products—each reflecting the province’s creativity, craftsmanship, and resilience.

“Their participation underscores the dynamic entrepreneurial spirit that continues to thrive in local communities,” the Northern Samar provincial government said in a statement.

To prepare the exhibitors, the Department of Trade and Industry–Northern Samar Provincial Office (DTI-NSPO) and the Provincial Government through the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO) conducted an orientation and exhibitors’ briefing.

Governor Harris Christopher Ongchuan has consistently pushed for stronger MSME development, with the provincial government highlighting his commitment to support initiatives that build competitiveness and open wider market opportunities for local producers.

Now on its silver year, Bahandi remains the flagship trade promotion program of DTI in Eastern Visayas, bringing together products from the region’s six provinces to reach the national market. It has become a venue not only to celebrate regional identity but also to expand market access for local entrepreneurs.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

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