NEW PUBLIC MERIDA. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office has constructed a facility in the town of Merida that will function as a public market at a cost of P14.83 million.
(DPWH-LEYTE 4TH DISTRICT ENGINEERING OFFICE)
NEW PUBLIC MERIDA. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office has constructed a facility in the town of Merida that will function as a public market at a cost of P14.83 million. (DPWH-LEYTE 4TH DISTRICT ENGINEERING OFFICE)
ORMOC CITY-The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office (DEO) builds a multi-purpose building in Brgy. Puertobello, Merida, Leyte under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) 2024 with a contract amount of P14,834,999.26.
The 1,226.02-square-meter building was built to function as a public market which is divided into separate sections for fish and seafood, meat, and dry goods, giving vendors dedicated space to display their products. It also features PWD-friendly access, wide pedestrian walkways, two comfort rooms each for male and female users with individual cubicles, adequate ventilation, and a drainage system designed to keep the facility clean and functional.
With the market now completed, vendors in Brgy. Puertobello have a permanent venue to conduct business, consolidating commerce that was previously scattered across the community. The facility is expected to generate additional income opportunities for vendors and give residents easier access to fresh produce and other essential goods. (PR)
INCLUSIVE RESCUE. Dr. Raymund Balverde, founder of the Disability-Inclusive Search and Rescue (DiSAR) program, leads a forum during the 2026 Eastern Visayas Regional Rescue Jamboree in Ormoc City, where more than 160 rescuers from 68 teams received training on assisting persons with disabilities during emergencies. The pioneering initiative integrates disability-inclusive principles into disaster response, emphasizing the protection of survivors’ lives, mobility, independence, and dignity.(Photo Courtesy, Dr. Raymund Balverde)
INCLUSIVE RESCUE. Dr. Raymund Balverde, founder of the Disability-Inclusive Search and Rescue (DiSAR) program, leads a forum during the 2026 Eastern Visayas Regional Rescue Jamboree in Ormoc City, where more than 160 rescuers from 68 teams received training on assisting persons with disabilities during emergencies. The pioneering initiative integrates disability-inclusive principles into disaster response, emphasizing the protection of survivors’ lives, mobility, independence, and dignity.(Photo Courtesy, Dr. Raymund Balverde)
TACLOBAN CITY — Disability-inclusive search and rescue was formally introduced for the first time in the Eastern Visayas Regional Rescue Jamboree, with more than 160 rescuers undergoing specialized training aimed at improving emergency response for persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups during disasters.
The Disability-Inclusive Search and Rescue (DiSAR) program was integrated into the 2026 Eastern Visayas Regional Rescue Jamboree, held in Ormoc City from July 12 to 17, through lecture forums, practical demonstrations, and simulated rescue scenarios involving persons with disabilities.
According to Dr. Raymund Balverde, founder and overall lead of the DiSAR program, the initiative broadens the traditional scope of rescue operations by ensuring that responders not only save lives but also protect the dignity, mobility, and independence of survivors.
“Disability-inclusive rescue recognizes that successful emergency response is not measured solely by survival. It also means preserving a person’s function, independence, and dignity throughout the rescue and evacuation process,” Balverde said.
More than 160 rescuers representing the 68 participating rescue teams attended the DiSAR forum, while teams competed in three disability-inclusive rescue scenarios designed to simulate real-life emergencies involving persons with disabilities.
The exercises included assisting Deaf individuals during infectious disease outbreaks, remotely guiding newly blinded survivors following a radiological emergency, and rescuing and transporting persons with suspected spinal cord injuries in an active conflict setting.
The program was facilitated by a multidisciplinary team composed of rehabilitation medicine specialists, orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and trained volunteers, demonstrating that disability-inclusive rescue techniques can be integrated into existing emergency response systems without compromising operational efficiency or responder safety.
The event was attended by Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region VIII Acting Regional Director Erwin Rommel Lamzon, who observed both the DiSAR forum and the mobility challenge.
Lamzon lauded the initiative, saying it strengthens the region’s capacity to provide more inclusive disaster response.
Balverde said the Philippines’ vulnerability to typhoons, earthquakes, floods, and other emergencies underscores the need to ensure that disaster response systems address the needs of persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and others with functional limitations.
“Save Life. Preserve Function. Protect Dignity. These principles define disability-inclusive rescue and remind us that every survivor deserves not only to live but also to retain their mobility, independence, and dignity,” he said.
The DiSAR program is expected to serve as a model for integrating disability-inclusive practices into search and rescue operations across the country.
The annual Eastern Visayas Regional Rescue Jamboree, organized by the Office of Civil Defense, gathers emergency responders from local government units, uniformed services, hospitals, and volunteer organizations to enhance disaster preparedness and interoperability through realistic rescue competitions and specialized training.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), the national agency mandated with promoting our country’s history and preserving our rich cultural heritage, strongly condemns and refutes the recent claims made by certain scholars from the People’s Republic of China during an academic symposium held at the Jinan University on 30 June 2026.
The “symposium,” based on news reports, “unanimously concluded that the Batan (sic Batanes) Islands constitute a natural geographic extension of Taiwan, and that China should exercise sovereignty over the same.
In the article, the Dean of the Jinan University’s School for International Studies, noted that the Batanes Islands were “under the jurisdiction of Taiwan Prefecture during the Ming and Qing Dynasties and that they form a natural geographic extension of the Taiwan archipelago.” They further argued that the Batanes Islands were not part of the Spanish and American Treaty of Paris (1898) that transferred sovereignty of the Philippines and the later Treaty of Manila (1946) that restored Philippine independence.
They claim that post-World War 2 international treaties mandated that Japan return territories that it had seized from China from the turn of the 20th Century and this supposedly includes Batanes.
They also called current Philippine sovereignty over the islands as a “fait accompli” exploited by the Philippines during regional chaos and claims that the Philippines lacks any legal basis. Like a post that circulated in social media in 2025 over Palawan, these “claims” have no rational basis in substantive research and operate from evident bad faith. They would never stand under scrutiny in academic discourse outside of the People’s Republic of China.
In line with our general mandate to strengthen our people’s nationalism through the promotion of our nation’s history, we refute all of the claims by these so-called scholars point-by-point. 1. On the claim that the Batanes Islands constitute “a natural geographic extension of Taiwan,” current satellite and oceanographic data by the Philippines and other nations clearly show a continuous shelf extending from Northern Luzon through the Babuyan & Batanes Islands, and into parts of the Taiwan archipelago. The Philippines claims a greater right over the subject territories from this perspective.
2. On the claim that the Batanes Islands were under the jurisdiction of the Taiwan prefecture during the Ming & Qing Dynasties (roughly from the 1360s up to the 1900s), the earliest known extensive documentation of the Batanes Islands by British explorer William Dampier in 1687 noted no trace of Chinese governance over the islands. The natives of Batanes, the Ivatan people, lived in protected communities and traded with other maritime trading nations.
This is clear in the archeological and historical evidence produced by more than a hundred years of research. Since 1783, the Philippine government and its legal predecessors have held continuous and undisputed sovereignty over Batanes.
The Spanish Empire, which had already imposed its sovereignty over the rest of the Philippine archipelago near the Batanes Islands, formally claimed them as part of the Province of Cagayan in 1783. Their struggle against Spanish rule, as with other parts of our country, is remembered and celebrated, especially the uprising led by Aman Dangat from 1785 to 1791.
During the 1896 Philippine Revolution and the First Philippine Republic, Batanes was already recognized as an integral part of our country’s territory with Ivatans rising up once again and claiming independence against the Spanish. They were represented in the Malolos Congress and every subsequent iterations of our national legislature. They have an elected government, one that is recognized by the whole world as Filipino.
3. On the claim that the Batanes Islands were part of the territory that was to be returned to China by Japan following the end of the Second World War, Japan cannot give to China what clearly belongs to the Philippines. Furthermore, the people of Batanes had already liberated themselves from Japanese rule by early 1945. This only proves beyond any doubt that Batanes has always been Filipino.
Finally, the NHCP stands with the People of Batanes in proclaiming their right of allegiance to the Philippines, faithful to our constitution and the flag that continues to proudly fly over our northern provinces. We also call on all parties, especially reputable academic institutions, to be true researchers and academics. Knowledge can only be true if grounded on good faith. No amount of fabrication will erase the truths of our past. (PR)
Brgy. Burabud, Laoang Northern Samar – The Department of Public Works and Highways Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office (DPWH NSSDEO) has successfully completed the construction of flood control structures and drainage systems within major river basins and principal rivers on April 15, 2026, located in Brgy. Laniwan, Palapag, Northern Samar. This barangay has benefited from this project, which helps protect them during calamities. Specifically, this project was designed to shield residents from typhoons and river flooding, boost the local economy, and protect the environment.
This project is funded under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 with contract amount of P 110,356,560.50. The scope of work includes the construction of 515.00 linear meters of structural concrete revetment, supported by a steel sheet pile foundation with deadman anchor system.
Cleofe G. Ramos, a local resident said, Ako po’y nagpapasalamat sa ating gobyerno, lalo na sa ating mga kababayan, sa DPWH, maraming salamat po sa inyo, Sa inyong pag-gawa sa riprap, dahil dati po mahirap lang kami, pagdating ng baha, takot na takot kami dahil walang riprap, pero maraming salamat po sa inyo hindi na kami masiyadong takot, pag dumating yung malaking tubig, nandiyan na yung riprap. Malaking pasasalamat namin, sa Brgy. Laniwan, Palapag, Northern Samar. Maraming salamat po DPWH at gobyerno, thank you po.”
DPWH NSSDEO reaffirms its unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, resilient infrastructure projects that will provide sustainable, long-term benefits and improve the quality of life for the people of Northern Samar.
DISASTER RESPONSE UPGRADE. Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. and Biliran Governor Rogelio Espina share a light moment after the ceremonial turnover of a P17-million Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MoCCoV) during the National Science, Technology and Innovation Week celebration in Tacloban City on July 15. The mobile incident command center, equipped with satellite communications, surveillance systems, GPS tracking, and weather monitoring technology, is expected to significantly enhance Biliran’s disaster preparedness and emergency response operations by ensuring uninterrupted coordination during calamities and other emergencies.
(DOST- Eastern Visayas)
DISASTER RESPONSE UPGRADE. Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. and Biliran Governor Rogelio Espina share a light moment after the ceremonial turnover of a P17-million Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MoCCoV) during the National Science, Technology and Innovation Week celebration in Tacloban City on July 15. The mobile incident command center, equipped with satellite communications, surveillance systems, GPS tracking, and weather monitoring technology, is expected to significantly enhance Biliran’s disaster preparedness and emergency response operations by ensuring uninterrupted coordination during calamities and other emergencies. (DOST- Eastern Visayas)
TACLOBAN CITY — The provincial government of Biliran has strengthened its disaster preparedness and emergency response capability following the turnover of more than P17-million Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MoCCoV) from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
Governor Rogelio Espina said the state-of-the-art vehicle will enable authorities to maintain communications and coordinate rescue and relief operations even when conventional communication systems fail during major disasters.
“We were surprised because it is no small thing to receive a vehicle worth more than P17 million that can be used during calamities, strong typhoons, and even major events to ensure that communication, instructions, and services are synchronized. This will help prevent unforeseen problems that may arise during approaching typhoons or rescue operations,” Espina said in an interview.
The governor, who personally received the vehicle during a simple ceremony on Wednesday, July 15, assured DOST that the provincial government would maximize the vehicle’s use and regularly provide feedback to help improve future versions of the technology.
“We will make full use of this vehicle. I told the Secretary that we will report to them on how it has been utilized so we can recommend any additional equipment or system upgrades that may be needed. We will provide feedback so it can be modified or improved to help even more communities,” he added.
Aside from Biliran, the municipality of Catarman in Northern Samar also received a MoCCoV unit from the DOST.
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said communication systems are often among the first casualties during major disasters, making it difficult for responders to coordinate rescue and relief operations.
“During major disasters, one of the most affected systems is communication. When there is no communication, an area becomes isolated. Even if we want to respond, it becomes difficult to coordinate with local governments and barangays,” Solidum said.
He explained that the MoCCoV serves as a mobile incident command center that allows emergency responders to monitor disaster situations, coordinate response efforts, and maintain communication in areas where conventional infrastructure has been damaged.
The vehicle can also be deployed during major public events to support security operations and incident management.
According to Solidum, some MoCCoV units are equipped with advanced emergency response equipment, including drones, portable rescue boats, and medical triage systems, allowing responders to provide immediate assistance in disaster-stricken communities.
Developed by the DOST, the MoCCoV is equipped with satellite communication systems, surveillance cameras, GPS tracking, and an onboard weather monitoring station linked to the agency’s HANDA hazard monitoring platform.
Biliran is among the country’s disaster-prone provinces, regularly experiencing destructive typhoons, flooding, landslides, and storm surges, making reliable emergency communication systems crucial for saving lives and ensuring timely disaster response.
WORD OF GOD. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle delivers his homily during the 30th sacerdotal anniversary Mass of Msgr. Erwin Jose Balagapo at the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Tacloban City on Sunday, July 12. In his homily, Tagle urged the faithful to embrace the Word of God as an antidote to the “decay and corruption” affecting society, saying only a life rooted in faith can bear lasting and life-giving fruit. (Photo Courtesy)
WORD OF GOD. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle delivers his homily during the 30th sacerdotal anniversary Mass of Msgr. Erwin Jose Balagapo at the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Tacloban City on Sunday, July 12. In his homily, Tagle urged the faithful to embrace the Word of God as an antidote to the “decay and corruption” affecting society, saying only a life rooted in faith can bear lasting and life-giving fruit. (Photo Courtesy)
TACLOBAN CITY — Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle on Sunday, July 12, called on faithful to resist the “decay and corruption” afflicting society, saying only the Word of God can renew individuals and communities, as he celebrated the 30th sacerdotal anniversary of Msgr. Erwin Jose Balagapo at the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish here.
Tagle’s message comes as the country continues to grapple with corruption issues involving several government officials, including Vice President Sara Duterte, who is facing an impeachment trial over allegations that include the misuse of confidential funds and other alleged irregularities.
While the cardinal made no reference to any individual or political issue, his homily focused on corruption as a moral and spiritual condition that destroys society.
Balagapo, a native of Sulat, Eastern Samar, currently serves as undersecretary of a section of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, headed by Cardinal Tagle.
Tagle said he was grateful to join the celebration with Balagapo and the other jubilarians, noting that his visit was made with the knowledge of Archbishop John Du of Palo, who was unable to attend the Mass.
“We thank the Lord for their families, for their parishes, and for the Archdiocese of Palo. And I feel blessed to be with them,” Tagle said before a congregation that included lay faithful, clergy, and local officials, among them Tacloban City Councilor Dandee Grafil and Palo Mayor Remedios “Matin” Petilla.
Reflecting on the Gospel’s Parable of the Sower, Tagle urged the faithful to make room for God’s Word despite the distractions and anxieties of everyday life.
“The Word of God is active. It wants to produce or create something, something good. And the Lord promises, ‘My Word will not return to me without accomplishing its purpose,’” he said.
He added: “The Word of God is alive and comes to us so that it may bear fruit.”
Tagle then contrasted the fruits of God’s Word with what he described as the fruits of evil.
“Corruption is a sign of death, decay. Unfortunately, in the world, that is one fruit that we see—fruits of decay, progressive decay, until everything turns to ashes,” he said.
Drawing from St. Paul’s writings, the cardinal said hope remains alive despite the corruption seen in the world.
“St. Paul says that creation continues to groan. In the heart of creation, in the heart of every human being, there is something that is not corrupted—hope, waiting for the revelation of the freedom of the children of God. That is the fruit of the Word of God,” he said.
Tagle said those who live according to God’s Word become “children of God” and “signs of a new creation.”
“We become saved, unlike the fruit of evil, which is decay, death and corruption. The Word of God resists that. The Word of God fights that. So let us accept the Word of God, so that we may be recreated and bear good fruit,” he said.
He ended that portion of his homily with a warning: “If we do not accept the Word of God, decay and corruption simply continue.”
Balagapo was ordained a priest in 1996 for the Archdiocese of Palo. He later entered the diplomatic service of the Holy See before assuming his current post at the Dicastery for Evangelization, one of the Vatican offices led by Cardinal Tagle.
The anniversary Mass drew hundreds of parishioners from across Eastern Visayas to honor one of the region’s highest-ranking Filipino churchmen serving in the Vatican.
