CATARMAN, Northern Samar– About 2,800 families in Northern Samar have enrolled in the government’s anti-hunger program called “Walang Gutom,” which has been active since 2024 under the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Joshua Pachoco, provincial program focal person and community engagement coordinator, stated that the Walang Gutom program aims to alleviate involuntary hunger among vulnerable groups such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and solo parents, who are the primary beneficiaries.

Beneficiaries received a P3,000 monthly food subsidy via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. The amount was allocated according to specific food categories: P1,500 for Go foods, a designated budget for Grow foods, and P600 for Glow foods, following the program’s food distribution guidelines.

Nelly Balanquit, one of the beneficiaries, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We are now free from debts because, before Walang Gutom, we often had to borrow money to buy rice and canned goods using our senior benefits.”

Meanwhile, Lilia Acibar from Brgy. Bantayan, San Roque, Northern Samar, shared her positive experience, saying, “Walang Gutom assured us that no day would go by with an empty stomach. We can now save rice for at least two weeks and occasionally enjoy treats like pork or chicken, something we rarely tasted before. Thank you so much.”

According to Pachoco, these beneficiaries were selected from the Listahanan database, a national household targeting system for poverty reduction conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority in 2018-2019.

To continue receiving benefits, beneficiaries are required to attend monthly nutrition education sessions led by trained Barangay Nutrition Scholars, where they learn about nutrition and health habits.

Pachoco also assured that more beneficiaries would be identified and enrolled before the end of the year to expand the program’s reach.

(AND, PIA Northern Samar)

Catarman N. Samar-In its continuing effort to raise awareness on road safety and promote responsible driving, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) conducted an information drive at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) – Northern Samar 1st District Engineering Office on July 30, 2025.

The activity focused on several key topics, including the different types of driver’s licenses and essential road safety regulations, most common traffic violations and its corresponding penalties such as driving without a license, reckless driving, and failure to wear seatbelts and helmets.

Employees were also reminded of the importance of observing traffic rules, complying with vehicle registration requirements, and regularly renewing licenses and other related documents.

According to the LTO, the initiative is part of its advocacy to promote safer roads by equipping government personnel and the public with proper knowledge and awareness of transportation laws.

LTO personnel enthusiastically addressed questions raised by DPWH employees, clarifying regulations and procedures. They also distributed motorcycle license plates to employees who submitted their official receipt (OR) and certificate of registration (CR) and encouraged others to submit the necessary documents for verification and release.

LTO Catarman OIC-Chief Guy Ellison Zosa emphasized that the agency’s mission is not to punish but to educate and assist the public. He encouraged employees not to fear LTO personnel, “Diri perwisyo am dara, kundi serbisyo,” he stated.

Prior to the information drive, LTO Catarman formally turned over red license plates to District Engineer Alvin Ignacio for use of the government vehicles owned by the district.
In conclusion, Engr. Ignacio expressed his appreciation to the LTO personnel for the informative session and for taking the time to share essential information with DPWH employees. He also expressed hope that the partnership between the LTO and DPWH would continue, especially since many employees are road users themselves and work on infrastructure projects that directly impact road safety.

(ANALIZA A. PABIA/PR)

PALO, Leyte – Under the visionary leadership of Regional Director J/SSupt. Rill F. Sonon, DSC, JD, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Regional Office VIII is setting new benchmarks in jail management and personnel development through its flagship programs: the R.I.L.L. Na Pagmamalasakit sa Loob ng Piitan Program and “WASTONG B.I.H.I.S.” Program.

In a unique and deeply compassionate approach to jail management, RD SONON launched the “R.I.L.L. Na Pagmamalasakit sa Loob ng Piitan” Program, a play on his name and a powerful acronym for Reintegration, Informed Journey, Learning, and Livelihood. The program is designed to strengthen and unify all PDL-centered welfare and development initiatives within #BJMPOtso, ensuring that every effort made inside the jail facilities for persons deprived of liberty (PDL) contributes to changing lives and building a safer nation.
The WASTONG B.I.H.I.S. Program — which stands for Wastong Baro, Insigna, Hibla, ID, at Sombrero at Sapatos — is more than just a dress code. It is a culture-building campaign that promotes discipline among BJMP personnel through properly wearing prescribed uniforms. This initiative underscores the belief that the professional appearance of Jail Officers reflects professional Jail service.

Since assuming office as Regional Director, JSSUPT RILL F SONON has introduced a leadership style marked by compassion, discipline, and innovation. His programs resonate with the Jail Bureau’s commitment to fostering a professional culture among personnel while promoting dignity, empathy, and transformation within the walls of every jail facility.
Under his stewardship, BJMPRO-VIII continues to champion a system where humane treatment, meaningful engagement, and progressive jail service define the true spirit of public service. (PR)