As the United Nations commemorates its 78th anniversary, it’s an opportune moment to celebrate the enduring partnership between the UN and the Philippines Armed Forces (AFP) in their shared mission of fostering peace and development.

The UN, founded in the aftermath of World War II, stands as a symbol of international unity, vowing to prevent global conflicts and promote cooperation between nations. The Philippines exemplifies this cooperation through its efforts in working with the UN to promote peace, security, and development.

One of the prime examples of this partnership is the long-standing commitment to peacekeeping missions. Through various programs and initiatives, the UN and the AFP have worked together to address underlying issues that contribute to conflict and instability. These initiatives range from disarmament and demobilization campaigns to community development projects aimed at fostering long-term stability and peace.

Another significant instance of cooperation is the joint humanitarian efforts undertaken by the UN and the AFP. One such initiative is the disaster response operations carried out in the wake of natural calamities. The Philippines is vulnerable to a myriad of natural disasters, including typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. In such times of crisis, the UN and the AFP have come together to provide emergency relief, rescue, and rehabilitation assistance. Their coordinated efforts have been crucial in mitigating the suffering of affected communities and expediting the recovery process.

While celebrating the UN’s 78th anniversary, it is imperative to acknowledge the pivotal role that the Philippines and its Armed Forces have played in advancing the organization’s goals. The nation’s commitment to peacekeeping missions and its unwavering support for humanitarian initiatives have undoubtedly made a significant impact on the global stage.

As the world grapples with contemporary challenges, ranging from climate change to conflicts, the United Nations remains a vital force for positive change. Its partnership with the Philippine government and the AFP is a testament to the enduring nature of collaboration, demonstrating how a nation can make a profound impact on the world stage through dedicated support and participation in the UN’s mission.

In the broader context of global harmony and the UN’s enduring partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), it is imperative to highlight the significant role played by the Philippine Air Force (PAF) in Civil-Military Operations.(PR)

TACLOBAN CITY– The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Eastern Visayas reported that several bays in Samar and Eastern Samar provinces have been detected to have the red tide toxins.

However, despite of the presence of the toxin, BFAR has not raised any shellfish ban.
Based on their advisory issued on Tuesday (Oct.24), these bays have been found to be positive of the Pyrodinium bahamense, the toxic microorganism that causes the paralytic shellfish poisoning, based on the water samples.

These are Maqueda Bay which covers the towns of Jiabong, Motiong, Paranas, San Sebastian, Calbiga, Pinabacdao, and Hinabangan, all in Samar; Cambatutay Bay which covers the town of Tarangan, also in Samar; San Pedro Bay, particularly in Basey, Samar; the coastal waters of Calbayog City in Samar; Irong-Irong Bay in Catbalogan City, Samar; and Matarinao Bay involving the towns of General MacArthur, Quinapondan, Hernani, and Salcedo towns, all in Eastern Samar.

The BFAR advises the public to refrain from gathering, selling, and eating all types of shellfish and Acetes sp., locally known as ‘alamang’ or ‘hipon’ from these areas.
However, fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs are safe for human consumption provided they are fresh and washed thoroughly, and their internal organs such as gills and intestines are removed before cooking.

Last October 15, a family consisting of seven individuals from Pagsanghan town, Samar fell ill after eating tahong.

Two members of the family, a nine-year-old girl and her six-year-old sibling, later died while being treated in a medical facility.

It was learned that most of the tahong being sold in Pagsanghan is sourced from San Sebastian where there is a red tide alert.(JOEY A. GABIETA)