ORMOC CITY– A man was killed while his wife and a passenger sustained injuries after the vehicle they were on board hit a steel railway in San Miguel, Leyte on Tuesday (July 26).
The fatality, who was driving a multi-cab type of a vehicle, was identified as Aljun Orbita while his wife, Jenny, and Rodesa Cabidlo, both school teachers, sustained injuries, the local police said.

Major Ronald Espina, the local police chief, said that the incident took place in a steel bridge located in Barangay Santol at about 5:59 pm.

The three were on their way home in Brgy. Sta.Cruz, also in San Miguel.

While navigating at the said bridge, the driver applied a brake causing the tires to slip and started to traverse in a zigzag motion.

This resulted for the vehicle to hit the railway of the bridge. As a result, the driver slammed his head in the windshield, incurring severe wounds due to the impact.

His passengers also sustained injuries in different parts of their bodies and were brought to the nearest hospital but the driver was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.
(ROBERT DEJON)

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) celebrated its 76th Founding Anniversary by displaying its air assets with pride and gratitude. The PAF impressed its audience with live demonstrations of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities using the C208 aircraft, Fast Rope Insertion, and Extrication System (FRIES) operations with the S70i Black Hawk helicopters and a hoist rescue operation of a patient using a Huey 2 aircraft. Additionally, the PAF showcased air-to-ground live fire demonstrations with the FA50 PH, A29B Super Tucano, and T129 Atak Helicopters. The formal program began with an impressive high-speed opener exhibition by three FA-50 PH aircraft, followed by a formation flight of T-41 aircraft, forming “76” to honor the PAF’s many years of existence and service. A flyby demonstration featured various types of PAF air and ground assets, such as the FA50PH, T129, C295, C130, PZL W-3A Sokol, S70i, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), and Ground Based Air Defense System (GBADS) platforms.

In his speech, President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr., as the Commander-in-Chief, commended the PAF for its selfless service and dedication over the past 76 years. He recognized the rich history and growth of the PAF, from its humble beginnings during the First World War to its present role in securing the nation. The President expressed his gratitude to the PAF personnel for their exemplary dedication and contributions to enhancing the country’s aerial defense capabilities. He emphasized the values of integrity, excellence, and patriotism, urging the PAF to continue upholding them in their mission to protect the nation.

Furthermore, the President assured the PAF of the government’s commitment to strengthening the Armed Forces, including the PAF, through the AFP Modernization Program. Recognizing the challenges ahead, the President emphasized the importance of the PAF’s maritime air patrol missions in upholding territorial integrity and safeguarding Philippine naval zones. He expressed his confidence in the PAF’s ability to soar to greater heights, calling for unity indomitable spirit, and unwavering dedication to protecting the Republic.

Throughout its 76-year journey, the PAF has consistently strived for excellence in fulfilling its mission. Its relentless pursuit of improvement was evident in its continuous investments in cutting-edge technology, advanced infrastructure, and the development of its human resources, ensuring the security of the Philippines and its skies. These strategic endeavors have propelled the PAF’s capability to new heights, resulting in a more robust fleet, state-of-the-art platforms, efficient air bases, and highly trained personnel.

The celebration not only commemorates its rich history but also serves as a reminder of its unwavering commitment to protecting the nation and its skies. (PR)

Connecting Ormoc to Matag-ob

ORMOC CITY– The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office (DEO) is currently undertaking the construction of Manlilinao-San Sebastian Road, this city, and Matag-ob, Leyte.

With a contract cost of P96.35 million funded under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) 2023, the project encompasses a length of 3.2 lane kilometers and a total width of 6.10 meters.

The scope of works, which is currently at a 53.59% completion rate, includes earthworks such as excavation and embankment, construction of portland cement concrete pavement (PCCP), and installation of reinforcing steel and structural concrete.

Upon completion, the Manlilinao-San Sebastian Road will not only improve the connectivity between Ormoc City and the town of Matag-ob but it will also greatly contribute to their socio-economic growth.

The enhanced road will stimulate trade and commerce, opening up new opportunities for business and boosting the overall prosperity of the area, the DPWH said.

While this project is progressing, the DEO is also actively engaged in similar road construction projects in other areas within its jurisdiction such as the construction of concrete road in Portobello-Puting Bato Road leading to Mt. Magsanga, Merida as well as the construction of Liberty-Burauen Brgy. Road, Ormoc City to name a few.
(ROBERT DEJON)