ORMOC CITY — A 66-year-old alleged high-value drug suspect and two other suspected drug personalities were arrested after police seized six sachets of suspected shabu during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Cavite East,Palo, Leyte on Thursday night, May 14.
Operatives of the Station Drug Enforcement Team (SDET) of the Palo Municipal Police Station carried out the operation at around 8:51 p.m. in Zone 6 of the barangay.
Police identified the suspects only by their aliases: “Gido,” 66, unemployed and listed as a high-value individual; “Deo,” 66, unemployed; and “Jerry,” of legal age and a butcher. The latter two were identified as street-level drug personalities. All three are residents of Barangay Cavite East.
Authorities said “Gido” was the primary target of the operation. He allegedly sold a sachet of suspected shabu worth P500 to an undercover operative.
A body search conducted in the presence of law-mandated witnesses led to the recovery of two more sachets containing white crystalline substances believed to be shabu, along with the marked P500 bill used in the operation.
Police also recovered three additional sachets of suspected shabu and personal belongings from the two other suspects during separate body searches.
The suspects were informed of the nature of their arrest and were apprised of their constitutional rights in a language they understood.
Authorities said the exact weight and estimated street value of the confiscated suspected illegal drugs are still being determined by the Regional Forensic Unit 8.
Charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, have been filed before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office against the suspects, who are currently detained at the Palo Municipal Police Station lock-up cell.
ORMOC CITY — A 22-year-old houseboy was arrested after police recovered more than P8,000 worth of suspected shabu during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Sto. Niño,Isabel in Leyte on Saturday night, May 16.
Operatives of the Station Drug Enforcement Team (SDET) of the Isabel Municipal Police Station carried out the operation at around 7:49 p.m., resulting in the arrest of the suspect identified only by his alias “Polding,” a resident of the said barangay.
Police said the suspect allegedly sold one sachet containing suspected shabu worth P500 to an undercover operative during the entrapment operation.
A subsequent body search conducted in the presence of required witnesses led to the recovery of one medium-sized plastic sachet and four smaller sachets containing white crystalline substances believed to be shabu.
According to police, the total estimated weight of the confiscated illegal drugs was 1.192 grams, with an estimated street value of P8,105.60 based on the Dangerous Drugs Board valuation.
Isabel police chief Lt. Sergio Llaneta III said the suspect was informed of his arrest and was apprised of his constitutional rights in a language he understood.
The suspect is currently detained at the Isabel Municipal Police Station lock-up cell while charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, are being prepared against him.
IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF VOUCHER SUBSIDY. Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre calls for the immediate release of pending government subsidies and voucher assistance for private schools amid rising operational costs.(JUDE ACIDRE FACEBOOK)
IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF VOUCHER SUBSIDY. Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre calls for the immediate release of pending government subsidies and voucher assistance for private schools amid rising operational costs.(JUDE ACIDRE FACEBOOK)
TACLOBAN CITY – Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre has called for the immediate release of pending government subsidies and voucher assistance for private schools, saying delays are adding financial pressure on schools struggling with rising operating costs.
Acidre, chair of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, backed the appeal of private education groups for the expedited release of assistance intended for School Year 2025–2026.
He said many private schools, especially small and financially vulnerable institutions, rely heavily on government support to sustain salaries, daily operations, and preparations for the upcoming school year.
The lawmaker also noted that rising fuel and energy costs have further increased expenses for transportation, utilities, maintenance, and school supplies.
Acidre urged the Department of Budget and Management and other concerned agencies to fast-track the release of all pending funds to ensure uninterrupted education services for learners.
SCHOOL-IN- A- BAG. Representatives from DepEd, UNICEF, and PLDT Smart lead the turnover of “School-in-a-Bag” learning packages to multigrade schools in Southern Leyte, aimed at improving access to quality education in remote communities. (THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF SOUTHERN LEYTE)
SCHOOL-IN- A- BAG. Representatives from DepEd, UNICEF, and PLDT Smart lead the turnover of “School-in-a-Bag” learning packages to multigrade schools in Southern Leyte, aimed at improving access to quality education in remote communities. (THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF SOUTHERN LEYTE)
TACLOBAN CITY — Efforts to strengthen learning in remote communities received a boost as the Department of Education (DepEd) Region VIII, together with UNICEF and PLDT Smart, turned over “School-in-a-Bag” packages to multigrade schools in the Division of Southern Leyte.
The initiative is part of ongoing programs aimed at addressing educational gaps in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, where access to learning tools and digital resources remains limited.
Each School-in-a-Bag package contains tablets, books, learning modules, and school supplies designed to support teachers handling multigrade classes and improve learners’ access to quality education.
DepEd Region VIII Assistant Regional Director Marilyn Siao said the project underscores the importance of partnerships in making education more inclusive and responsive to the needs of underserved students.
She added that the initiative reflects a shared commitment among education stakeholders to help bridge learning gaps and improve opportunities for children in remote communities.
DepEd Southern Leyte thanked UNICEF, PLDT, Smart, and other partners for their continued support in enhancing learning conditions across the province.
UNICEF, for its part, reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining programs that support children’s education and development nationwide.
PATRONIZERS. Tourism officials led by Regional Director Karen Tiopes, local leaders, and guests join the launching of the “Pamatron: Samar Fiesta Experience” in Matuguinao, Samar on May 16, highlighting the town’s cultural traditions, community activities, and eco-tourism attractions. (ROEL T. AMAZONA)
PATRONIZERS. Tourism officials led by Regional Director Karen Tiopes, local leaders, and guests join the launching of the “Pamatron: Samar Fiesta Experience” in Matuguinao, Samar on May 16, highlighting the town’s cultural traditions, community activities, and eco-tourism attractions. (ROEL T. AMAZONA)
MATUGUINAO, Samar — The provincial government of Samar has introduced a new cultural tourism initiative that seeks to turn traditional fiesta celebrations into an immersive visitor experience, officially launching the “Pamatron: Samar Fiesta Experience” in this town on May 16.
The program, unveiled just days before Matuguinao’s fiesta on May 18–19, is part of efforts to promote Samar’s cultural heritage while generating livelihood opportunities and strengthening local tourism.
Developed as a four-day, three-night tour package, “Pamatron” allows visitors to experience how Samarnons celebrate fiestas through food traditions, church activities, community gatherings, and nature-based adventures while staying closely engaged with local residents.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes said the initiative showcases the unique warmth and hospitality of Samarnon communities, where visitors are treated as part of the celebration.
Matuguinao Mayor Aran Boller said the program is expected to help reintroduce the town as a safe and emerging tourism destination while creating income opportunities for residents.
The itinerary includes cultural activities such as community cooking, street parties, traditional dances, and house-to-house dining, alongside visits to natural attractions like cold springs, caves, waterfalls, and rock formations.
At the end of the tour, participants are given recognition as “official patronizers” for supporting and experiencing Samarnon culture.
Officials and employees of Abuyog Community College take part in the formal launch and oath-taking ceremony of the Abuyog Community College Employees Credit Cooperative (ACCECC) during the school’s Management Days celebration on March 30, 2026. The oath of office for the cooperative’s founding officers was administered by Lemuel Gin K. Traya.(Photo Courtesy)
Officials and employees of Abuyog Community College take part in the formal launch and oath-taking ceremony of the Abuyog Community College Employees Credit Cooperative (ACCECC) during the school’s Management Days celebration on March 30, 2026. The oath of office for the cooperative’s founding officers was administered by Lemuel Gin K. Traya.(Photo Courtesy)
On March 30, 2026, during the grand opening of Management Days at Abuyog Community College, history was made with the formal launching of the Abuyog Community College Employees Credit Cooperative (ACCECC). The highlight of the event was the solemn oath-taking of the founding officers, administered by Hon. Mayor Lemuel Gin K. Traya. This milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter for the college community, as employees unite under one cooperative to strengthen financial empowerment and solidarity.
The founding officers who took their oath of office are distinguished leaders and educators of the institution. Dr. Teofilo O. Montallana, Chairman of the Board of Directors, leads the cooperative alongside Dr. Clemelle L. Montallana and Prof. Ella Krista B. Traya as Board Members. Prof. Alfredo M. Gaganao serves as Board Secretary, while Prof. Christopher P. Gallos chairs the Audit Committee. Prof. Jacob C. Tupas heads the Credit Committee, Dr. Joel D. Comaling leads the Ethics Committee, and Prof. Dennis C. Rizaldo assumes the role of Coop Manager. Their collective expertise and commitment will serve as the backbone of ACCECC’s operations.
While some officers were excused due to personal and professional obligations, their presence in spirit was acknowledged. Prof. Jasper V. Dulosa, a Board Member, is currently on leave; Prof. Irene A. Belleza, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, attended her son’s moving-up ceremony; and Prof. Ritchie Deloria, Treasurer, attended to important matters with the Department of Education. Their dedication remains integral to the cooperative’s vision, and they will continue to contribute to its growth.
ACCECC was officially registered with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) on February 16, 2026, under Certificate Registration No. 9520-100800038788. Its mission is clear: to empower employees of Abuyog Community College by offering accessible financial services such as savings programs, low-interest loans, protection schemes, and livelihood support initiatives. By fostering financial stability and inclusivity, ACCECC aims to uplift the welfare of its members and promote a culture of cooperation and mutual aid.
Membership in ACCECC is open to all employees of Abuyog Community College, including job order workers, contract of service personnel, regular and permanent staff, and retirees. This inclusivity, as outlined in Article 2, Section 2 of the cooperative’s By-Laws, ensures that every member of the college community has the opportunity to benefit from its programs. The cooperative stands as a beacon of hope, offering financial security and opportunities for growth to its members.
The cooperative’s journey is further strengthened by the unwavering support of Hon. Mayor Lemuel Gin K. Traya, who graciously approved the free use of a two-door vacant space near the SMAW area within the ACC campus. This office will serve as the hub of ACCECC’s operations and future canteen services. Such support, authorized under Republic Act No. 9520, underscores the vital role of local government in nurturing cooperatives. With gratitude, the officers and members of ACCECC extend their heartfelt appreciation to Mayor Traya for his commitment to community development and cooperative empowerment.
(Dr. Teofilo O. Montallana, College Dean, College of Hospitality Management and Entrepreneurship, Abuyog Community College, Abuyog, Leyte)
