TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Tourism–Eastern Visayas (DOT-8), in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), has provided financial assistance to tourism workers whose livelihoods were affected by recent calamities in the region.
In coordination with local government units, the DOT-8 identified 101 displaced tourism workers from Biliran province and Jipapad, Eastern Samar, who received relief and cash aid from the DSWD headed by Regional Director Grace Subong.
DOT-8 Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes personally led the initial distribution held at the DSWD Field Office in Naval, Biliran, where each beneficiary received P2,000 in cash assistance.
The assistance program also covers 45 tourism workers from the island municipality of San Vicente, Northern Samar, who are set to receive financial aid in the coming days.
Director Tiopes said the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to the welfare of tourism industry workers, emphasizing that recovery efforts should include the people who drive the sector’s growth.
“Tourism is not just about destinations—it’s about people. Supporting our tourism workers ensures that Eastern Visayas’ tourism industry continues to rise stronger after every challenge,” Tiopes said.
The activity, conducted in collaboration with the Eastern Visayas Tourism Association (EVTA), reflects the continued partnership among government agencies and tourism stakeholders in promoting recovery, resilience, and sustainable growth across the region’s tourism communities.
DENIAL. Former congressman Vicente Veloso of Leyte’s third district vehemently denied allegations linking him to the supposed overpricing of a farm-to-market road (FMR) project and alleged land grabbing in Barangay San Roque, Tacloban City. (PHOTO COURTESY)
DENIAL. Former congressman Vicente Veloso of Leyte’s third district vehemently denied allegations linking him to the supposed overpricing of a farm-to-market road (FMR) project and alleged land grabbing in Barangay San Roque, Tacloban City. (PHOTO COURTESY)
TACLOBAN CITY — Former Leyte 3rd District Representative Vicente Veloso has denied allegations linking him to the supposed overpricing of a farm-to-market road (FMR) project and alleged land grabbing in Barangay San Roque, Tacloban City, as featured in the October 19 episode of ‘Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS)’.
In a statement sent to Leyte Samar Daily Express on Tuesday,Oct.21, Veloso described the report as “misleading and false,” saying that Barangay San Roque is outside his former congressional jurisdiction.
“I have no comment on the issue regarding the FMR in Barangay San Roque, Tacloban City, because said barangay is located within the first district of Leyte, not within the third district, which I previously represented,” Veloso said.
Veloso served as a congressman from 2016 to 2022 and is now an associate justice of the Court of Appeals. He clarified that he had no involvement in the P100-million FMR project cited in the report, which remains under construction.
“Since July 1, 2022, I have ceased to be a member of Congress; therefore, I am not in any position to explain how the farm-to-market road in Brgy. San Roque was allegedly allocated P100 million,” he added.
Veloso also denied accusations of land grabbing, saying the KMJS report falsely portrayed his family’s land acquisitions.
“Your first interviewee claimed that I bought lands at a low price. However, as my family and I acquired those lands many years ago, we cannot make any comment on what may now be considered ‘cheap’ or ‘fair market value,’” he said.
“It is enough to stress that your own interviewee admitted that the lands were bought, which clearly disproves your report’s claim that I grabbed the land.”
He specifically refuted the claim of Erlinda Bermudo, who alleged that he took her property near the FMR site. Veloso said their prior dispute involved a different property located in Sitio Picas, Barangay Guinciaman, San Miguel, Leyte — not in Tacloban City.
He cited a Department of Agrarian Reform Adjudication Board (DARAB) ruling dated June 8, 2004, which dismissed the appeal of Bermudo’s group, Alyansa han Parag-uma ha Sab-a Basin. The decision, he said, became final and executory on October 26, 2004.
Veloso has since called on GMA Network and the KMJS production team to correct what he described as false and damaging information.
“I urge GMA Network and the program Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho to immediately correct the false information broadcast in your documentary to prevent further damage to my reputation and to ensure the integrity of your reporting,” he said.
The controversial KMJS episode has stirred discussions in Leyte, with some residents calling for clarification from both the media outlet and concerned government agencies regarding the FMR’s funding and ownership issues.
TACLOBAN CITY — Ninety-four elderly residents of Borongan City received P10,000 each during the fourth payout of the national government’s cash gift program for octogenarians and nonagenarians held on October 15 at the multi-purpose gym in Barangay Campesao.
The beneficiaries included senior citizens aged 80, 85, 90, and 95 who celebrated their birthdays between March and June 2024, and between May and June 2025.
The cash distribution is part of the implementation of Republic Act No. 11982, or the Expanded Centenarians Act, which extends financial incentives to Filipinos reaching the ages of 80, 85, 90, and 95, in recognition of their longevity and contributions to society. The law amends Republic Act No. 10868, also known as the Centenarians Act of 2016, which initially granted cash gifts only to Filipinos who reached 100 years old.
According to Hilda Rodeles, focal person for senior citizens at the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), a total of 231 elderly beneficiaries in Borongan have already received their cash incentives since the start of the program’s rollout in March 2024.
She said the CSWDO accepts applications two to three months before an eligible senior citizen’s birthday to ensure the timely release of the benefits.
Also present during the activity were OIC-CSWD Officer Hazel Ribong, Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) head Virginia Buna, National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) Regional Director Antonio Dolaota, Ian Pinangay, and several presidents of senior citizens’ associations from various barangays in the city.
FARMERS ASSISTANCE. The provincial government of Northern Samar has joined the Department of Agriculture’s Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Program which is expected to boost rice production and improve the livelihood of farmers in the province. Among those present were Governor Harris Ongchuan and former Congressman Paul Daza. (PHOTO COURTESY)
FARMERS ASSISTANCE. The provincial government of Northern Samar has joined the Department of Agriculture’s Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Program which is expected to boost rice production and improve the livelihood of farmers in the province. Among those present were Governor Harris Ongchuan and former Congressman Paul Daza. (PHOTO COURTESY)
TACLOBAN CITY — The provincial government of Northern Samar has formally joined the Department of Agriculture’s Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Program, a move expected to strengthen rice production and improve the livelihood of farmers in the province for the 2025–2031 implementation period.
The program’s launch, held at Sumuroy Hall in the provincial capitol, marked Northern Samar’s inclusion among the country’s 78 rice-producing provinces that will benefit from RCEF interventions aimed at improving yield, reducing production costs, and enhancing rice quality.
Governor Harris Ongchuan led the ceremony alongside Representatives Edwin Ongchuan and Nico Raul Daza, and Vice Governor Clarence Dato.
The event gathered local officials, national government representatives, and agricultural stakeholders in a united effort to make rice farming in the province more competitive, sustainable, and resilient.
“Sa ating pagsusumikap at pakikipag-ugnayan sa Department of Agriculture at iba’t ibang ahensya, kasali na ang ating probinsya sa mga programa sa ilalim ng RCEF mula ngayong taon hanggang 2031. Kung ating babalikan, noong nakaraang buwan ay nakatanggap na ng mga makabagong makinarya ang mga qualified farmers’ at irrigators’ associations,” Governor Ongchuan said.
Anchored on Ongchuan’s HCO Framework—which focuses on Human capacity-building, Climate resiliency, and Opportunities—the RCEF program seeks to empower farmers through access to modern farm machinery, high-quality seeds, credit assistance, and technical training.
Through the initiative, local farmers are expected to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices, improve soil management, and utilize advanced post-harvest technologies to minimize losses and increase profitability. Continuous farmer education and technical support will also help them adapt to climate challenges and meet evolving agricultural standards.
The event was attended by DA Regional Field Office 8 OIC Regional Executive Director Rodel Macapañas, former congressman Paul Daza, Provincial Agriculturist Jose Luis Acompañado, TESDA Northern Samar Provincial Director Zosimo de Asis, and Rice Program Coordinator Engr. Ma. Cristina Ladeza.
Partner agencies such as Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Land Bank of the Philippines, Development Bank of the Philippines and Technical Education Skills Development Authority also participated, along with members of various farmers’ cooperatives and associations across the province.
RAMIL’S WRATH. Several parts of Samar Island were submerged in floodwaters following the onslaught of Typhoon ‘Ramil’ on Saturday, October 18. Among the hardest-hit areas was Barangay Caglanipao in Calbayog City, where residents waded through waist-deep water as continuous rains and strong winds battered the community. (Photo courtesy of Diana Pantino)
Triggers floods, landslides, and mass evacuations
RAMIL’S WRATH. Several parts of Samar Island were submerged in floodwaters following the onslaught of Typhoon ‘Ramil’ on Saturday, October 18. Among the hardest-hit areas was Barangay Caglanipao in Calbayog City, where residents waded through waist-deep water as continuous rains and strong winds battered the community. (Photo courtesy of Diana Pantino)
TACLOBAN CITY — Heavy rains and strong winds brought by Typhoon “Ramil” lashed across parts of Samar Island and nearby provinces over the weekend, triggering floods, landslides, and displacing thousands of residents.
On Saturday, October 18, widespread flooding was reported in Calbayog City and the nearby town of Daram in Samar province, while landslides and power interruptions affected several communities across the region.
In Daram, floodwaters inundated the villages of Binarawon and Kanipaan as the Jacopon River overflowed following hours of continuous rain. Several houses were affected, although the extent of the damage was still being assessed as of press time.
In Calbayog City, a landslide hit Barangay Cagmanipis Sur, while other low-lying areas such as Cagmanipis Norte, Bugtong, Malaga, and Roxas II experienced knee-deep flooding.
The Calbayog Water District also warned consumers of low water pressure or temporary supply interruptions as its water sources were affected by the floods.
In Eastern Samar, floodwaters reached the public market and municipal hall grounds of Guiuan town. Similar flooding incidents were reported in Barangay Pagbabangnan in San Julian and in parts of Borongan City.
In Northern Samar, a landslide occurred in Barangay Palanit, San Isidro, while two minors from Masbate were rescued off the coast of Barangay Dalupinit, San Antonio after their fishing boat drifted due to rough seas and strong winds. The boys, aged 11 and 14, had gone fishing on Saturday and were swept away before being spotted and rescued by local residents on Sunday.
Meanwhile, two fishermen earlier reported missing — Venetio Pombo of Brgy. Nena, San Julian, and Junjie Valera of Brgy. Del Remedio, Sulat — were rescued on Sunday off the waters of Brgy. Natividad, San Policarpo, Eastern Samar.
With the weather improving by Sunday morning, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) lifted its no-sailing policy across Eastern Visayas.
In Biliran province, the municipality of Naval sheltered 2,352 individuals from 661 families displaced by Ramil.
The evacuees were housed in various LGU- and barangay-managed evacuation centers, including schools and the Naval Gymnasium, which reached full capacity with 631 evacuees, and the Dapdap Evacuation Center, which sheltered 116 individuals.
Mayor Gretchen Espina assured that all evacuees received three meals daily and basic necessities such as infant milk, diapers, sanitary napkins, and coffee. The LGU also organized movie viewings and games for children to ease stress and uplift spirits amid the crisis.
“In moments like this, the true heart of Naval shines the brightest. Our compassion, unity, and resilience define who we are as a people. Together, we will overcome, rebuild, and emerge stronger than ever,” Mayor Espina said.
The provincial government of Biliran likewise provided refuge to 30 families or 111 individuals at the provincial evacuation center in Barangay Larrazabal, where evacuees received food packs, clean water, and sleeping kits.
Governor Gerard Roger Espina praised the swift coordination among the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), local volunteers, and barangay officials in responding to the storm’s impact.
“In every storm, we see the true heart of our people — united, resilient, and compassionate. Together, we face challenges and rise stronger as one Biliran,” the governor said.
After conditions stabilized, the LGU of Naval lifted its forced evacuation order on Sunday afternoon. Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO-Biliran), led by Sofronio D. Dacillo, conducted inspections of riverbanks, roads, and bridges to ensure that all major routes were safe for motorists and relief operations.
While weather conditions have improved, local disaster officials continue to urge residents to remain alert for possible flash floods and landslides, especially in mountain and coastal communities still saturated by days of heavy rainfall.
FLOOD CONTROL MESS. Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho ‘Icot’ Petilla could not help but mentioned the flood control controversy hounding the country during his speech at the 81st Leyte Gulf Landings anniversary on Monday, Oct.20,2025, likening it as a ‘new war’ that the Filipinos should fight back. (ROEL T.AMAZONA)
FLOOD CONTROL MESS. Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho ‘Icot’ Petilla could not help but mentioned the flood control controversy hounding the country during his speech at the 81st Leyte Gulf Landings anniversary on Monday, Oct.20,2025, likening it as a ‘new war’ that the Filipinos should fight back. (ROEL T.AMAZONA)
PALO, Leyte — Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho ‘Icot’ Petilla likened the ongoing flood control controversy to a “different kind of war” that has placed the country in an embarrassing position, as he delivered his message during the 81st Leyte Gulf Landings Commemoration on Monday, October 20.
“The Philippines is now fighting a different kind of war — one that has tarnished the government’s reputation and eroded the people’s trust,” Petilla said, referring to the alleged irregularities involving flood control projects across the country.
He said the controversy, which has implicated contractors, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) personnel, and even elected officials, has drawn not only national attention but also concern from the international community.
“Even members of the diplomatic corps have been asking — if there are those found involved, will they be punished? Will justice be served?” Petilla said.
Drawing a parallel between the present scandal and the wartime sacrifices of Filipino and Allied soldiers, Petilla warned against allowing such corruption to persist.
“Just like any war, this should not happen again. If they go unpunished, our forefathers who fought and died 81 years ago on this very land would rise from their graves and ask us, ‘Are you worth dying for?’” he said.
To ensure accountability, Petilla said the provincial government now requires contractors to submit daily time-lapse videos of their ongoing projects.
He added that artificial intelligence (AI) will soon be used to monitor whether projects are implemented according to approved specifications.
“We’re using time-lapse monitoring to check every detail — down to the last inch. This will help us prevent substandard or ghost projects and ensure that public funds are properly used,” the governor emphasized.
The 81st Leyte Gulf Landings Commemoration, themed “Freedom’s Price: Honoring the Past, Protecting the Future,” marked the historic return of Allied Forces led by General Douglas MacArthur to liberate the Philippines from Japanese occupation during World War II.
This year’s event was attended by Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown, Japan Embassy Charge d’Affaires Minister Ono Sho, and Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu, who served as guest speaker.
Six of the 12 remaining living World War II veterans also graced the ceremony.
In his message, Minister Sho paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives during the war, highlighting how the Philippines and Japan have since built strong ties of friendship and development cooperation — including projects such as the San Juanico Bridge and the planned second bridge linking Leyte and Samar.
Ambassador Innes-Brown reaffirmed Australia’s enduring alliance with the Philippines, noting that their partnership extends beyond wartime camaraderie to modern challenges, including the humanitarian response and recovery efforts following Super Typhoon ‘Yolanda’ that pummeled Leyte and the region on November 8, 2013.
