The Philippine Statistics Authority – Regional Statistical Services Office VIII (PSA-RSSO 8), upon the invitation of the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office VIII (DA-RFO VIII), participated in the Farmer’s and Fisherfolk’s Month Celebration (FFMC) on 05 May 2025.

Established by the Presidential Proclamation No. 33 in 1989, this annual event honors the invaluable contributions of farmers and fisherfolks to the development of the Philippines’ agricultural sector. This year’s celebration carried the theme, “Makabagong Magsasaka at Mangingisda, Susi sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas,” highlighting the vital partnership of farmers and fisherfolks in building a prosperous new Philippines.

The highlight was the ceremonial installation of Regional Farmer Director
Engr. Miguel Pedroso and Regional Fisherfolk Director Mr. Marvin Batiquin, attended by Regional Management Council (RMC) members, Farmer Cooperatives and Associations (FCA) representatives, KADIWA exhibitors, and DA-RFO VIII personnel.

The continuing collaborative activities between PSA-RSSO 8 and the DA RFO 8 serve as a venue for discussion and resolution of issues, review of current techniques/methodologies, and recommendation of policies and workable schemes towards the improvement of agriculture and fishery statistics.

For inquiries and further information, please contact our office with telephone numbers 0968-898-2440 or 0998-564-8556, and email address rsso08@psa.gov.ph. (PR)

TACLOBAN CITY — Tingog party-list Representative Jude Acidre joined Catholics worldwide in celebrating the election of Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

“We join the billions of Catholics around the world in thanking God for the election of Pope Leo XIV,” Acidre said, following the Vatican’s announcement of the new pontiff.

“Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been chosen to carry the heavy but holy burden once borne by Peter,” he added. “Just as our Lord told Peter to ‘strengthen your brothers,’ we now look to Pope Leo XIV to guide, inspire, and confirm us in the faith.”

Acidre also expressed deep gratitude for the spiritual leadership of Pope Francis, honoring his legacy of compassion and humility. “We are grateful for the life and witness of Pope Francis—who taught us to love more, hope more, and serve more deeply,” he said.

As the Church enters a new chapter, Acidre called on the faithful to support the new pope through prayer. “We now pray for our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV,” he said. “May the Lord bless him with wisdom, courage, and compassion as he leads the Church in these challenging times.”

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

TACLOBAN CITY – In an urgent move to preserve the structural integrity of the iconic San Juanico Bridge, authorities have imposed stricter weight limits, now allowing only light vehicles with a maximum axle load of three metric tons to pass.

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) confirmed that the new restrictions take effect immediately as part of heightened safety protocols following concerns about the bridge’s ability to handle excessive loads. Vehicles crossing the bridge must travel along the centerline and do so one at a time, strictly adhering to the instructions of on-site traffic management personnel.

The 2.16-kilometer San Juanico Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the Philippines connecting the islands of Samar and Leyte, is a vital transport link in Eastern Visayas. However, its aging structure has prompted increased caution from national and regional authorities.

Heavy vehicles—including commercial cargo trucks, large buses, and trailers—are temporarily barred from using the bridge until further evaluation ensures that such loads will not compromise its stability.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the use of alternative transport routes via Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) vessels to minimize disruptions in the flow of goods and passengers. Suggested alternatives include the Catbalogan City–Tacloban City and Calbayog City–Tacloban City ferry routes, which are expected to accommodate diverted cargo and public transport.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the OCD are currently conducting further assessments and are exploring long-term solutions to upgrade or reinforce the bridge. Motorists are urged to cooperate with the new regulations and remain updated through official government advisories.

The San Juanico Bridge, inaugurated in 1973, remains a symbol of regional connectivity and development. Authorities emphasized that protecting it now is critical to maintaining the safety and economy of Eastern Visayas.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)