ORMOC CITY – A 41-year-old internet technician listed as a high-value individual (HVI) in the local drug watchlist and his alleged accomplice were arrested in a buy-bust operation conducted by the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU) and the Station Drug Enforcement Team (SDET) of Police Station 3.
The operation took place around 10:36 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, in Purok 1, Barangay Lao, this city.
CDEU Chief PLt. Riche Selencio identified the suspects as alias “Cielo,” 41, married, an internet technician tagged as HVI, and alias “Win,” 35, single, a fisherman listed as a Street-Level Individual (SLI). Both are residents of Barangay Lao.
According to police, “Cielo” was the primary target of the operation. However, it was “Win” who handed over a sachet containing a white crystalline substance believed to be shabu to a poseur buyer in exchange for P1,000. The sachet weighed 0.21 grams.
A body search conducted on “Cielo”, witnessed by barangay officials as mandated by law, led to the recovery of three more sachets of suspected shabu weighing 0.48 grams, along with two P500 bills—one of which matched a court-authorized marked bill used during the operation. The other was fake (boodle money).
“Win” was also found in possession of two additional sachets of suspected shabu, weighing another 0.21 grams.
During questioning, “Cielo” admitted that the drugs recovered from him were his and claimed he used them to stay alert while working. “Win”, on the other hand, insisted he was merely in the area to pick up crabs from a friend.
Both suspects were informed of their rights in a language they understood and are now detained at the Police Station 3 lock-up facility in Barangay Liloan.
The CDEU is preparing to file charges for violations of Sections 5 (sale) and 11 (possession) of Article II of Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
(ROBERT DEJON)
OATH TAKING. Leyte Representative and House Speaker Martin Romualdez take his oath on Sunday, June 29, before Court of Appeals Justice Bautista Corpin. He is to serve his third and last term. Also taking his oath was Rep. Jude Acidre of the Tingog party-list group. Speaker Romualdez was joined by his sons, namely, Ferdinand Martin Jr., elected as Tacloban city councilor, and Andrew Julian who was elected as a congressman under Tingog while Acidre was joined by his wife, Kochakorn.
TACLOBAN CITY – House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez officially took his oath of office as Representative of Leyte’s first district during a solemn ceremony held at the historic Price Mansion in Tacloban City on Sunday, June 29.
Court of Appeals Associate Justice Bautista Corpin Jr. administered the oath.
The event also served as a family milestone, with Romualdez’s sons, Andrew Julian Romualdez and Ferdinand Romualdez, also taking their oaths. Andrew Julian as a Tingog party-list representative, and Ferdinand as a newly elected member of the Tacloban City Council.
Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre also reaffirmed his oath of office during the gathering, which included the induction of newly elected officials from Tacloban City and the towns of Palo, Babatngon, Tanauan, Tolosa, Sta. Fe, Alangalang, and San Miguel, all from Leyte’s first congressional district.
In his remarks, Romualdez expressed deep gratitude to his constituents and pledged to deliver more services and development projects across the district.
“We will strive to do our very best to deliver more services, more programs, and more projects—not just for the city of Tacloban, but for all the municipalities in the first district,” he said.
He also acknowledged his family’s support and commended the leadership of Rep. Acidre, calling him “the rock of Tingog.”
“You’ve done so much, not just for the district, but for the entire region and even beyond,” Romualdez added.
The House Speaker also congratulated the newly elected local officials, saying their overwhelming mandates reflected the people’s trust.
“You were overwhelmingly re-elected—that means you’ve done well, and the people believe in you. Now, let’s keep delivering,” he said.
Ending on a note of unity and resilience, Romualdez recalled the region’s recovery after Typhoon Yolanda and encouraged officials to continue aiming higher.
“Together, we shall rise. We proved this after Yolanda—we bounced back. Now, we aim even higher,” he said.
TACLOBAN CITY – Citing the need to protect its environment and future generations, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Borongan City in Eastern Samar has formally opposed destructive mining activities through a resolution urging government agencies to reject operations that threaten local ecosystems and communities.
In Resolution No. 59, unanimously approved on June 11 during the city council’s regular session, officials called on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), and other relevant agencies to deny or revoke permits for mining operations that could lead to environmental degradation.
“Whereas, destructive mining activities pose significant threat to the environment, including deforestation, loss of biodiversity, water contamination, soil erosion, and the displacement of communities,” the resolution states.
“Now Therefore, be it resolved, as it is resolved, to strongly object to any and all forms of destructive mining activities within the territorial jurisdiction of Borongan City.”
The resolution also enjoins barangays, civil society groups, environmental advocates, and church organizations to stand united in safeguarding Borongan’s natural environment for the benefit of both present and future generations.
Borongan, the resolution emphasized, is home to rich natural resources and vital watersheds that support the livelihood and health of its residents.
The measure cited the 1987 Constitution and the Local Government Code of 1991, which uphold the right of citizens to a healthful and balanced ecology and mandate local governments to protect it.
The resolution was issued in response to a June 4 notice from MGB opening applications for industrial sand and gravel permits in the municipalities of Hernani, Gen. Macarthur, and Borongan City, with 2,759.79 hectares of Borongan land included in the proposed mining area.
The move earned praise from the Diocese of Borongan, which has consistently voiced opposition to mining in Eastern Samar.
“We are very pleased with the stance of our honorable officials in Borongan City. Truly honorable. Boronganons will be very happy about this,” said Fr. James Abella, director of the Commission on Social Action, Justice and Peace of the Diocese.
Fr. Abella earlier urged other provincial leaders to also register their opposition to any form of mining activity.
In response to mounting concerns, MGB Regional Director Glenn Noble clarified that the June 4 notice does not grant immediate mining authorization.
“The notice that we have is a notice denying an existing mining application and opening the area for new mining applications, not opening an area for mining operations,” Noble explained.
He also stressed that any new application must undergo thorough evaluation and comply with all regulatory requirements.
Currently, mining operations are active in parts of Eastern Samar, particularly on the islands of Manicani and Homonhon. Homonhon hosts four nickel and chromite mining firms—Min-Met Resources, Verum Terra Geosciences Inc., TelcIron Resources Inc., and Emirs Mineral Resources—while Hinatuan Mining Corp. operates on Manicani Island.
FRESH TERM. Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez officially assumed his post as a congressman representing Leyte’s fourth district as he took his oath of office on Monday, June 30. He was joined by his wife, Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez, who also took her oath of office on same day, and their daughter, Juliana and other members of their family. (LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
FRESH TERM. Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez officially assumed his post as a congressman representing Leyte’s fourth district as he took his oath of office on Monday, June 30. He was joined by his wife, Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez, who also took her oath of office on same day, and their daughter, Juliana and other members of their family. (LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
TACLOBAN CITY – Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez pledged to sustain the momentum of development in his district as he delivered a heartfelt inaugural address, reflecting on his transformation from a Manila-born actor to a dedicated public servant and proud Ormocanon.
Speaking before constituents and local officials during his oath-taking on Monday, June 30, Gomez expressed deep gratitude for the trust given to him by the people of Ormoc and the entire 4th District, as he embarks on his second term in the 20th Congress.
“Thank you for giving me this mandate to serve again. I am committed to pushing for more development and making our district one of the most progressive in the Philippines,” he said.
During his speech, Gomez highlighted accomplishments from his first term, including the implementation of infrastructure and social development projects amounting to P11.8 billion. These include roads, bridges, school buildings, and healthcare facilities that have improved access and services across the district.
He also outlined his legislative priorities for his second term, anchored on three pillars: infrastructure, investment in people, and peace and order. Among the first 10 bills he filed are proposals to abolish the K-12 program, establish a railway system in Eastern Visayas, and legalize medical cannabis.
Gomez credited the overwhelming support of his constituents for his reelection, winning by a commanding margin of over 42,000 votes against his opponent.
He ended his speech with a call for unity and shared purpose: “Let’s move forward—with greater purpose, deeper commitment, and unwavering faith.”
The congressman reaffirmed his vision of transforming Ormoc and the 4th district into a hub of sustainable growth, innovation, and opportunity in the region.
VIVA SENOR SANTO NIÑO! The revered image of Tacloban’s patron stands in solemn majesty as the city marks its 136th fiesta celebration, a testament to enduring faith, devotion, and resilience.
(ARCHDIOCESAN SHRINE OF STO.NIÑO)
Tacloban Fiesta 2025
VIVA SENOR SANTO NIÑO! The revered image of Tacloban’s patron stands in solemn majesty as the city marks its 136th fiesta celebration, a testament to enduring faith, devotion, and resilience. (ARCHDIOCESAN SHRINE OF STO.NIÑO)
TACLOBAN CITY – Taclobanons are set to come together in prayer, devotion, and celebration as the city marks its 136th fiesta in honor of its patron, Señor Santo Niño, with a series of religious and cultural activities culminating on June 30.
The annual fiesta, one of the oldest and most significant religious events in Eastern Visayas, traces its origins to the Spanish colonial era, when devotion to the Holy Child Jesus was introduced by Augustinian missionaries.
Tacloban’s deep-rooted faith in the Santo Niño—believed to be a protector in times of hardship and calamity—has continued to define the city’s spiritual identity for generations.
This year’s celebration follows the theme “Pilgrims of Hope”, and includes a nine-day novena leading to the fiesta Mass on June 30, which will be officiated by Bishop Emeritus Pedro Dean at the Archdiocesan Shrine of Señor Santo Niño. A Pontifical Vigil Mass is also scheduled on June 29 at 5:30 p.m., to be led by Palo Archbishop John Du.
One of the major highlights of the celebration is the Sangyaw Festival 2025, which will illuminate the city streets on June 29 with the Sangyaw Parade of Lights starting at 6:00 p.m. The parade will showcase 14 dance contingents and 15 themed floats, all vying for the P500,000 grand prize in what has become one of the region’s most awaited cultural showcases.
Derived from the native word “sangyaw,” meaning “to herald” or “to proclaim,” the festival is Tacloban’s unique expression of its faith, culture, and artistic pride. Performers clad in dazzling costumes and elaborately decorated floats will parade through the city, celebrating Tacloban’s unwavering devotion to its beloved patron.
Mayor Alfred Romualdez underscored that beyond the spectacle, the fiesta is a reaffirmation of Tacloban’s resilience and collective spirit.
“This is not just a celebration of culture—it’s a celebration of our faith, our history, and our strength as a community,” the mayor said.
With thousands of devotees and visitors expected to join, Tacloban’s 136th fiesta promises to be a vibrant and moving expression of unity, hope, and enduring faith in Señor Santo Niño.
TACLOBAN CITY — Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre has come to the defense of the iconic San Juanico Bridge after Vice President Sara Duterte publicly questioned its status as a tourist attraction, calling the structure more than a landmark and “a powerful symbol of progress” for Eastern Visayas and the country.
“People have been talking a lot about the San Juanico Bridge lately, and I’d like to share my own thoughts,” Acidre said in a June 23 social media post. “Because for me, it’s more than just a tourist attraction. It’s more than just an iconic photo spot. It’s more than a ribbon of steel and concrete stretching across the San Juanico Strait.”
His comments came on the heels of Duterte’s controversial remarks during a speech in Melbourne, Australia on June 22, where she expressed irritation at seeing the bridge promoted in advertisements as a tourist destination.
“I was extremely irritated… with one part of the ad. It said the San Juanico Bridge in Tacloban is a tourist spot. Do you even know how long the San Juanico Bridge is? 2.6 kilometers. I was so irritated—how can a 2.6-kilometer bridge be considered a tourist spot?” she said.
Duterte went on to contrast the bridge with what she described as a much longer and “modernized” bridge in China, erroneously citing its length as 264 kilometers. While no such bridge exists, the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge, which spans 164 kilometers, is recognized as the longest in the world and is likely the structure she referred to.
Amid this, Acidre emphasized the deep cultural and emotional significance of San Juanico to the people of Samar and Leyte, saying it embodies a time when the Philippines aspired for grand achievements.
“The San Juanico Bridge is a powerful symbol of progress,” he said. “It was built during a time when our country dared to dream big… It was a season of ambition, a moment when we believed that the best days of our country lay just ahead.”
Inaugurated in 1973 under the administration of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., the 2.16-kilometer San Juanico Bridge connects Samar and Leyte across the San Juanico Strait. It was funded through Japanese war reparations and has since become a regional icon—renowned for its sweeping views, colorful night lighting, and symbolic status as a unifying link between islands.
Despite this, the bridge has recently drawn scrutiny not just because of Duterte’s remarks but also due to structural concerns. In May, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) imposed a three-ton load limit after inspections revealed visible cracks and signs of wear.
“What was once a source of pride has, for some, become a symbol of neglect,” Acidre said. “Instead of rallying together to fix the problem, we’ve seen blame tossed around. Instead of focusing on what we can do, we’ve been busy pointing out who’s at fault. And so, a bridge meant to unite has, sadly, become the subject of arguments and division.”
Leyte businessman and provincial board member Wilson Uy echoed the lawmaker’s sentiments, stressing that the value of San Juanico cannot be measured solely by size.
“Tourism is not measured in kilometers,” Uy said. “The San Juanico Bridge draws people not because it’s the biggest, but because it tells a powerful story.”
Acidre noted that rehabilitation work is underway and credited House Speaker Martin Romualdez for quietly advancing efforts for both the ongoing repair and a proposed second span of the bridge.
“He understands that this isn’t just about fixing a bridge; it’s about preserving a legacy, restoring faith, and reigniting a sense of pride,” Acidre said.
As discussions around the bridge’s future continue, Acidre called for unity and vision.
“Let’s not just cross bridges,” he said. “Let’s build them. Together.”
