TACLOBAN CITY — The National Housing Authority (NHA) in the region has launched a condonation and restructuring program aimed at helping delinquent housing beneficiaries settle their long-overdue amortizations and retain ownership of their homes.
The initiative, implemented under Memorandum Circular No. 2025-075 or the Socialized and Low-Cost Housing Loan Restructuring and Condonation Program, seeks to ease the financial burden of homeowners with at least three months of unpaid amortizations as of May 1, 2025.
According to Engr. Silverio Gempeson Jr., officer-in-charge of the NHA Leyte I District Office, the program grants 100% condonation of penalties and delinquency charges and 95% condonation of unpaid interest. This allows qualified beneficiaries to restructure their loans and continue payments under more manageable terms.
“This program offers beneficiaries a second chance to settle their housing obligations and secure ownership of their homes,” Gempeson said in a statement.
Eligible beneficiaries include residents from the following NHA housing projects:
Kandungganan Village Project – Bliss, Sagkahan, Tacloban City; Fisherman’s Village – Brgy. 88, San Jose, Tacloban City; Cancabato Ville – Brgy. 88, Tacloban City; Palo Housing Project – Brgy. Baras, Palo, Leyte; and Sangyaw Village AFP/PNP Housing Project – Brgy. Tagpuro, Tacloban City
Interested homeowners are advised to visit the NHA Leyte I District Office along Calanipawan Road, Sagkahan, Tacloban City, to verify their eligibility and request account computations.
The deadline for the submission of applications is October 31, 2025.
DANCE PROMOTION. The provisinal government of Samar, in partnership with the Department of Tourism-Eastern Visayas, launched the Dancing Samar Legacy Program in Calbayog City on Oct. 20. The program aims to promote cultural pride and developing local dance talents across the province.
(PHOTO COURTESY)
DANCE PROMOTION. The provisinal government of Samar, in partnership with the Department of Tourism-Eastern Visayas, launched the Dancing Samar Legacy Program in Calbayog City on Oct. 20. The program aims to promote cultural pride and developing local dance talents across the province. (PHOTO COURTESY)
TACLOBAN CITY — The provincial government of Samar, in partnership with the Department of Tourism–Eastern Visayas (DOT Region VIII), has launched the Dancing Samar Legacy Program in Calbayog City — a 35-day initiative aimed at promoting cultural pride and developing local dance talents across the province.
The program opened on Monday, Oct.20, with more than 100 participants, including students and choreographers, joining intensive workshops that combine technical dance training with lessons on Samar’s cultural heritage.
Spearheading the sessions was renowned choreographer Douglas Nierras, who serves as lead trainer and facilitator. His role involves mentoring participants on performance techniques while deepening their understanding of local traditions and creative expression.
Provincial officials said the program forms part of Samar’s broader effort to strengthen its identity as a center for arts, culture, and tourism in Eastern Visayas. It seeks to nurture the next generation of dance artists while preserving and reinterpreting the province’s unique heritage through movement and storytelling.
The program will culminate in a grand performance showcase, highlighting the participants’ artistic journey and celebrating the vibrant cultural spirit of Samar.
ADDRESS SOCIAL ILLS. Bishop Crispin Varquez of the Diocese of Borongan has called on the faithful to help address the country’s continuing social ills-including poverty, injustice, and corruption. The prelate made the call as he lead in the 65th founding anniversary of the diocese on Wednesday, Oct. 22.
(PHOTO COURTESY)
ADDRESS SOCIAL ILLS. Bishop Crispin Varquez of the Diocese of Borongan has called on the faithful to help address the country’s continuing social ills-including poverty, injustice, and corruption. The prelate made the call as he lead in the 65th founding anniversary of the diocese on Wednesday, Oct. 22. (PHOTO COURTESY)
TACLOBAN CITY— Bishop Crispin Varquez of the Diocese of Borongan has called on the faithful to confront the country’s continuing social ills — including poverty, injustice, and corruption — as the diocese marked its 65th founding anniversary on Wednesday, Oct. 22.
In his pastoral message titled “Have Loved You with an Everlasting Love” (Jer. 31:3), issued on the occasion of the diocese’s milestone celebration, Bishop Varquez reminded the clergy and laity alike that their mission as a Church goes beyond worship, urging them to “be the hands and feet of Christ” in addressing the problems that plague Filipino society today.
“Our current realities present many challenges to us. The continuing scourge of poverty and injustice, the scandal of corruption and lack of accountability offer us an opportunity to give witness to the Gospel,” Bishop Varquez said.
He urged the Church in Eastern Samar to actively promote justice, peace, human dignity, and care for creation, describing these as integral to living out the Gospel in contemporary times.
“We are called to be a Church that listens and responds, a Church that walks alongside our people,” he said, adding that even small acts done “with great love,” echoing St. Mother Teresa, can make a difference.
The prelate’s message, released as part of the diocese’s theme “Graced 65 Years: Together let us Honor the Past, Serve the Present, and Embrace the Future,” also reflected on the faith journey of the local Church, founded in 1959.
Bishop Varquez paid tribute to the early missionaries and leaders who helped build the diocese, acknowledging their sacrifices and faith that “continue to bear fruit in the thriving Church we have become.”
He also called for unity and hope as the diocese moves forward amid uncertainty, drawing inspiration from Scripture: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11).
The Diocese of Borongan, which serves the entire province of Eastern Samar, was established on October 22, 1959, through the apostolic constitution Cum Ecclesia Catholica issued by Pope John XXIII.
TACLOBAN CITY — The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) has partnered with the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) in a campaign to stop the illegal use of air guns, improvised, and unlicensed firearms that threaten the country’s national bird and other wildlife species.
The initiative aims to address the persistent problem of illegal hunting in upland areas of Eastern Visayas, where these firearms are often used to kill or injure the critically endangered Philippine eagle.
In a statement released on Thursday, Oct.23, PRO-8 underscored that such acts violate key national laws, including Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, and Republic Act 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. Possession and use of unregistered or homemade firearms, the police said, are punishable under these laws.
The regional police office said it is working closely with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), local government units (LGUs), and environmental groups to strengthen enforcement operations and promote awareness in local communities.
PRO-8 urged the public to report any incidents of illegal firearm use and wildlife hunting, emphasizing that protecting the Philippine eagle—a symbol of strength and national pride—requires the cooperation of all sectors.
“Together, we can ensure that future generations will continue to witness the majestic flight of this bird in our skies,” the statement said.
ORMOC CITY– A drinking session turned fatal after a farmer was hacked to death by his drinking companion over a personal grudge on Tuesday night, October 14, in Barangay Balacdas, Borongan City.
Police identified the victim as alias “Lito,” of legal age, and a resident of Barangay Balacdas. The suspect, alias “Bato,” 32, single, and also a farmer from the same village, was arrested shortly after the incident.
Based on the report of the Borongan City Police to the Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8), the incident occurred at around 9:20 p.m. Authorities were alerted by a phone call about a hacking incident in the barangay and immediately dispatched a team to the area.
Initial investigation revealed that around 7:00 p.m., the victim and the suspect were drinking with several others when the victim later went to a nearby store. A heated argument reportedly broke out between the victim and the store owner.
During the commotion, the suspect arrived carrying a sharp-bladed weapon locally known as a sundang and hacked the victim, hitting him in the armpit. The blow proved fatal, and the victim died instantly.
Police said the suspect later admitted that he and the victim had a prior altercation, which may have led to the attack.
The victim’s body was brought to a local funeral parlor for post-mortem examination. Meanwhile, the suspect was detained at the Borongan City Police Station, where he was informed of his rights. The weapon used in the crime was also recovered as evidence.
ORMOC CITY AWARENESS. City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez (not in photo) lead in giving awards and recognition to more than 44 individuals and business establishments as part of the city’s 78th Charter Day celebration on Oct. 20. (LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
ORMOC CITY AWARENESS. City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez (not in photo) lead in giving awards and recognition to more than 44 individuals and business establishments as part of the city’s 78th Charter Day celebration on Oct. 20. (LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
ORMOC CITY — The city government here celebrated its 78th Charter Day on October 20 with the Tatak Ormoc Business Awards and Garbo sa Ormoc ceremonies, recognizing exemplary individuals, entrepreneurs, and local innovations that reflect the city’s growth and resilience.
Held at the Ormoc City plaza, the twin awarding ceremonies highlighted achievements in business, culture, and public service. Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez, joined by city officials and members of the Charter Day executive committee, led the distribution of awards to this year’s honorees.
Among the Garbo sa Ormoc awardees were Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary Ronald Canopio, Boynton Beach, Florida Mayor Tyrone “Ty” Penserga, Arellano University volleyball player Catherine Domasig, Engr. Ace Juntilla, Jose Manuel Gaquit, Carlo Baltonado, Emilio Cuevas, Allan Devil Arreza, and Dr. Noel Labaniego.
Dr. Samuel Vincent Yrastorza received a special citation, while former 802nd Brigade Commander BGen. Noel Vestuir was honored with the Dakbayanon Pasalamat Award for his service to the city.
In the Tatak Ormoc Business Innovation Awards, Mauro Café was named Best Start-Up Enterprise, while Melann Lending Investor Corporation and N.Y.G’s Store topped the Banking and Finance category. Mayong’s Burger and Snackhouse won in Manufacturing, and Link IT Solutions and Digital Printing were recognized under Services. Bryan James Sabino was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year, and Froilan Celeste took home the Entrepreneur of the Year award.
Customer favorites also took center stage in the Tatak Ormoc Customers’ Choice Awards. Milagrina Restaurant was recognized for Best Chicken House and Best Pork Barbecue, while Ikea Cakes and Snacks dominated multiple categories, including Best Empanada, Best Halo-halo, Best Leche Flan, and Best Fresh Lumpia.
Other winners included Yoyi’s Cakes and Pastries (Best Food Pasalubong), Boylin’s Eatery (Best Dinuguan), and Eng Lechonan (Best Lechon).
In the Service Category, top honorees were Cliffaded Barber Shop (Best Barbershop), 25th Lane Café (Best Café), Bong’s Event Catering Services (Best Catering), Arnel’s Weddings and Events (Best Event Stylist), Sabin Resort Hotel (Best Hotel), IALodge (Best Little Hotel), Pepang Aviles (Best Make-Up Artist), Hair Fairy Beauty Salon (Best Salon), and Elite Marketing (Best Video Production).
For Retail, winners included Yoyi’s Cakes and Pastries (Best Balikbayan Favorite), Amy and Ann Dried Fish Store (Best Dried Fish), Abeth’s Seafood Stall (Best Fish Stall), Leah’s Blooms Flower Shop (Best Flower Shop), Benben Fruit Stall (Best Fruit Stand), One-Stop Commercial (Best Grocery), and JS Chiong Meatshop (Best Meat Shop).
Adding a lighthearted twist, the “Feelings Category” awarded fun and relatable favorites, such as “Multo” by Cup of Joe (Best Break-Up Song), Banana Pancakes from Marta’s Resort (Best Break-Up Food), Pakdol from Doro’s Little Carenderia (Best Comfort Food), and Ormoc City Plaza (Best Date Place).
The celebration culminated in performances by R&B singer Kyla and performer Dionela, followed by a drone and fireworks display that lit up the Ormoc skyline.
The Tatak Ormoc and Garbo sa Ormoc awards underscored the city’s commitment to recognizing excellence, supporting local enterprises, and honoring Ormocanons who continue to inspire pride and progress in the community.
