INCENTIVES FOR MEDALISTS. The city government of Calbayog under Mayor Raymund Uy will provide cash incentives to their athletes who won medals during the recently-concluded Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) Meet. (CALBAYOG CITY INFORMATION OFFICE)
City finished 6th overall
INCENTIVES FOR MEDALISTS. The city government of Calbayog under Mayor Raymund Uy will provide cash incentives to their athletes who won medals during the recently-concluded Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) Meet. (CALBAYOG CITY INFORMATION OFFICE)
TACLOBAN CITY – Medal-winning athletes from the Calbayog City Supersonics in the 2025 Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) Meet will receive cash incentives from the city government as a reward for their dedication and success.
Gold medalists will receive P5,000, silver medalists P3,000, and bronze medalists P2,000. Non-medalist participants will also receive P1,000 each as recognition for their efforts.
Calbayog City made significant progress in this year’s EVRAA, finishing sixth overall with 16 gold, 23 silver, and 35 bronze medals—a notable improvement from their ninth-place finish in 2024 with 10 gold, 35 silver, and 33 bronze medals.
Their improved performance earned them the “Most Improved Division” award.
“We are happy for our young athletes because our ranking improved from number nine to number six,” Mayor Raymund Uy said, emphasizing the city’s ongoing commitment to supporting local sports programs.
The mayor, who personally met their young athletes while competing in Tacloban City, also assured full support for Calbayog athletes who will be part of the Eastern Visayas delegation in the 2025 Palarong Pambansa this May in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.
Looking ahead, Calbayog City is set to host the 2027 EVRAA Meet, marking its first time since 2018 to stage the prestigious regional competition.
RENEWABLE ENERGY. The municipality of Guiuan, Eastern Samar, is set to transition to solar power as the primary energy source for its municipal building. (GUIUAN LGU)
Donated by ICSC
RENEWABLE ENERGY. The municipality of Guiuan, Eastern Samar, is set to transition to solar power as the primary energy source for its municipal building. (GUIUAN LGU)
TACLOBAN CITY – The coastal municipality of Guiuan in Eastern Samar is making a significant move toward sustainable energy with the installation of a 60-kilowatt-peak (kWp) On-Grid Hybrid Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System, marking a shift to solar power as a reliable and cost-effective electricity source.
The project was formally handed over through a ceremonial switch-on and turnover event held at the Guiuan Municipal Hall grounds on February 27.
It was made possible through a partnership with the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC), an international non-government organization advocating fair climate policy and low-carbon, climate-resilient development.
The 60-kWp On-Grid PV system refers to the maximum power output of a solar panel system under ideal conditions. This capacity is sufficient to power around 36 to 40 households with an average electricity consumption of 200 kWh per month.
According to Department of Energy (DOE) Assistant Secretary Mylene Capongcol the 60-kWp hybrid solar system can help the municipality save on energy costs, allowing the savings to be allocated to other social services for its constituents. “Through this installation, we will see the proof of the concept of having the power to choose our own electricity supply,” she said.
Guiuan, located at the southernmost end of Samar Island, has regularly experiences power outages, a problem that could somehow be solved through this project, Mayor Analiza Gonzales-Kwan said.
“There are 365 days in a year, but the brownouts might reach 500 occurrences,” she said.
“Guiuan is the largest municipality in Eastern Samar, and this project will inspire many others to see that it is possible. This collaboration between ICSC and the municipality of Guiuan demonstrates the power of partnership built on a shared vision, mutual trust, and a deep understanding of the community’s needs. It’s a game changer,” Mayor Gonzales-Kwan added.
The project represents the largest PV system installation by ICSC in the Eastern Visayas region and will provide power to the municipal hall and its facilities. ICSC Executive Director Angelo Kairos dela Cruz highlighted that the initiative serves as a model for climate-resilient development.
“Our partnership with Guiuan goes beyond the solarization of the municipal hall rooftop. This milestone signals systemic changes that will serve as an example of how climate-resilient development can be achieved through strong local leadership and collective action,” dela Cruz said.
The initiative includes upholding five key actions under Guiuan’s Just Energy Transition Agenda, accelerating the adoption of renewable energy, and promoting community-led energy solutions to enhance energy security and affordability in the municipality.
“We are not just switching on a new energy source for the municipal hall building. We are igniting a transformative journey for our beloved town—one that prioritizes sustainability, resilience, and progress. As we power up the solar PV system, we take another significant step toward self-reliance, embracing renewable energy solutions for the benefit of our communities, economy, and environment,” said Rectito Melquiades, Guiuan Sangguniang Bayan Secretary.
The memorandum of agreement for the hybrid solar PV installation project was officially signed between ICSC and the local government of Guiuan, represented by Executive Director de la Cruz and Mayor Gonzales-Kwan, in October 2024.
Following the turnover ceremony, the hybrid PV system will undergo a one-month testing period before full operational deployment.
TACLOBAN CITY – The mayors of Leyte province have joined the national call to assert the country’s sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS), emphasizing the need to protect Philippine waters and maritime resources from external threats.
Palo Mayor Remedios “Matin” Petilla, president of the League of Municipalities-Leyte chapter, underscored the province’s unified stance in support of the national government’s efforts to defend the country’s maritime territory amid ongoing tensions in the region.
“We should protect the West Philippine Sea. It is ours. It is just right to assert our rights and protect the people there,” Petilla said in an interview on Monday, March 3.
She also commended the administration of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. for its strong stance against Chinese incursions into Philippine waters.
“We appreciate our government under PBBM for taking decisive steps to assert and defend the WPS,” she added.
Petilla stressed that all mayors in Leyte firmly support the Philippine government’s rightful claim to the WPS, recognizing its strategic importance in national security, economic stability, and the livelihood of Filipino fisherfolk.
Leyte, which faces the Pacific Ocean, holds historical significance in maritime conflicts.
The province witnessed the largest naval battle of World War II, the Battle of Leyte Gulf, which played a crucial role in liberating the Philippines from Japanese occupation.
Local leaders see a parallel in the ongoing territorial struggle over the WPS, where Filipino fishermen and security forces confront challenges posed by foreign incursions.
In Southern Leyte, officials in the coastal municipality of Hinunangan have likewise expressed their solidarity with the national government on the WPS issue.
Mayor Reynaldo Fernandez emphasized the importance of defending Philippine sovereignty.
“There’s no pride like defending our own,” Fernandez said in an earlier media interview. “When other nations are claiming what is rightfully ours, we should provide the necessary support to those who are protecting our territories.”
According to Fernandez, the town council of Hinunangan passed a resolution as early as September last year, affirming their support for the government’s stance on the WPS.
The resolution also backed security personnel, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), who are at the forefront of maritime defense efforts.
Vice Mayor Marian Pelin further highlighted the impact of the dispute on the livelihoods of local fisherfolk.
“We carry the same sentiments for the fishers whose livelihoods are affected by this territorial conflict. Almost half of our town depends on the sea for food and income. If we can protect our own fisherfolk here, we are also extending our support to those defending our people and resources in the WPS,” Pelin said.
Hinunangan, a coastal municipality, has 14 of its 40 villages reliant on marine resources for food security, economic sustenance, and tourism.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has previously urged local governments to support efforts to protect the WPS, emphasizing the importance of national unity in safeguarding the country’s marine resources and territorial integrity.
WOMEN’S MONTH CELEBRATION. The regional office of the Philippine National Police, headed by B/Gen. Jay Cumigad, has joined the Women Month celebration with series of activities. During their kick-off celebration on Monday,March 3, DSWD Regional Director Grace Subong served as the guest and speaker. (PRO-8)
WOMEN’S MONTH CELEBRATION. The regional office of the Philippine National Police, headed by B/Gen. Jay Cumigad, has joined the Women Month celebration with series of activities. During their kick-off celebration on Monday,March 3, DSWD Regional Director Grace Subong served as the guest and speaker. (PRO-8)
TACLOBAN CITY – The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO 8), led by Regional Director PB/Gen.Jay Cumigad, officially launched the 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) with the theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas” at the PRO 8 Multipurpose Hall on March 3, 2025.
The event was graced by Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Grace Subong, who served as the guest of honor and speaker.
In her keynote speech, Subong underscored the vital role of women in all sectors and commended PRO 8 for its dedication to gender equality and inclusivity.
“The PNP and the DSWD share the same commitment to serving with compassion. This celebration is a recognition of the role women play in every organization,” she stated.
“Behind every great man is a great woman, and vice versa. We cannot do this alone—we need each other. This is a challenge for all of us as public servants to ensure that we truly uplift women in the new Philippines,” she added.
One of the event’s highlights was the provision of assistance and hygiene kits to ten policewomen and non-uniformed personnel (NUP) battling serious illnesses. This initiative, made possible through the PRO 8 OLC Foundation Inc., reflects the organization’s deep commitment to the welfare of its personnel, particularly women in uniform who continue to serve despite personal challenges.
Certificates of appreciation were awarded to various government agencies in recognition of their support for “Serbisyo Para Kay Juana”, a program providing essential services to female personnel of PRO 8. The initiative featured services from several partner agencies, including the Department of Health (DOH) – Health services; Commission on Population Development (CPD) – Family planning and reproductive health services; Technical Education Skills and Development Authority-Gandang Juana – Free manicure, pedicure, haircut, and massage; Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) – Civil registration services; lending agencies (PSSLAI, AFPSLAI) – financial assistance programs; Department of Agriculture (DA) – display of local products; Avon Mobile Store, makeup tutorial, personal development, and product display; Regional Medical and Dental Unit 8 (RMDU 8) – Free health and dental check-ups; and Regional Legal Office 8 (RLO 8) – Legal consultations.
This collaboration highlights the collective effort to support and empower women in the police force.
The NWMC is an annual observance in PRO 8, recognizing the invaluable contributions of women, particularly those in law enforcement, as they continue to break barriers and redefine leadership. Throughout March, PRO 8 will conduct various activities advocating for women’s rights and empowerment.
DPWH EV PROJECTS. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the region announced that for this year, 1,521 various infrastructure projects are to be undertaken by their office. These infrastructure projects have total budget of P58.66 billion. (DPWH-8)
DPWH EV PROJECTS. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the region announced that for this year, 1,521 various infrastructure projects are to be undertaken by their office. These infrastructure projects have total budget of P58.66 billion. (DPWH-8)
TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the region is set to undertake an unprecedented infrastructure development program in 2025, with a total of 1,521 projects worth P58.655 billion spread across the six provinces of Eastern Visayas.
This year’s infrastructure push, one of the most ambitious in recent years, aims to enhance road connectivity, fortify disaster resilience, and boost economic growth across the region.
Of the 1,521 projects, a significant portion is dedicated to improving the region’s transportation network, with 288 road projects, including construction, widening, rehabilitation, and improvement initiatives; and 51 bridge projects, covering repairs, widening, and new constructions to strengthen inter-provincial and inter-city connectivity.
A total of 175 flood control structures will be built across the region to mitigate the impact of flooding, protect lives and properties, and strengthen disaster resilience.
Under the Convergence and Special Support Program (CSSP), DPWH-8 will also roll out key projects aimed at boosting tourism, trade, and essential services.
These includes 22 tourism road projects under the Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP); 3 projects under Kalsada Tungo sa Paliparan, Riles at Daungan (KATUPARAN), which improves access to airports, railways, and ports; and 4 projects under the Roads Leveraging Linkages for Industry and Trade (ROLL-IT) Program to facilitate smoother logistics and commerce.
To improve basic infrastructure and public service access, DPWH-8 will also implement seven water supply system projects to ensure reliable access to clean water; 14 National Building Program projects, including government office buildings and other public facilities; 587 projects under the Basic Infrastructure Program (BIP) to enhance essential community structures; 326 Sustainable Infrastructure Projects Alleviating Gaps (SIPAG) projects to address infrastructure deficiencies in various sectors; and 44 road projects under the Special Road Fund – Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC) for road maintenance and improvement.
Among the flagship projects funded under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) are Tacloban City Causeway, a vital road infrastructure to improve mobility and ease congestion; Samar Island Medical Center, enhancing healthcare access in the province; Basey-Maydolong Road, providing a crucial link between Samar and Eastern Samar; Mahaplag-Hilongos Road, improving inter-town connectivity; and Tacloban City Bypass Road Extension, aimed at reducing traffic congestion in the city.
With P58.66 billion allocated for 1,521 projects, DPWH-8’s ambitious infrastructure plan is expected to stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, improve connectivity, and enhance disaster resilience across Eastern Visayas.
The agency’s efforts will not only transform the region’s physical landscape but also pave the way for sustainable development and improved quality of life for its residents. (LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
POPE’S BLESSINGS. Jenita Aguilar holds a framed photo of Pope Francis together with the rosary given to them by the Pontiff during his Jan.17,2015 visit at their home in San Jose, Tacloban City. Aguilar said that she is among the millions of Catholic faithful who are praying for the fast recovery of the Holy Father.(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
TACLOBAN CITY – As Pope Francis continues to battle health issues, one family he personally met during his visit to this city 10 years ago is among those fervently praying for his recovery.
POPE’S BLESSINGS. Jenita Aguilar holds a framed photo of Pope Francis together with the rosary given to them by the Pontiff during his Jan.17,2015 visit at their home in San Jose, Tacloban City. Aguilar said that she is among the millions of Catholic faithful who are praying for the fast recovery of the Holy Father.(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
During his historic visit on January 17, 2015, in the aftermath of Super Typhoon ‘Yolanda’ (international name: Haiyan), the Pontiff made an unexpected stop at the home of Jenita Aguilar, 54, in the San Jose district, the area worst hit by the typhoon.
The visit took place on his way to the cathedral in Palo, Leyte.
“We learned about the Pope’s condition through social media, and since then, we have been praying daily for his fast recovery,” Aguilar shared in an interview on Tuesday, March 4 at their home in Pope Francis-SM Cares Village, a resettlement site in Barangay New Kawayan for Yolanda survivors who lost their homes.
She expressed confidence that their prayers would help the Pope regain his strength.
“I still remember the moment we met him. His hands were so soft, and his voice was gentle. He placed his hands on our heads as he blessed us,” Aguilar recalled, speaking of her personal encounter with the now-ailing Pontiff.
The visit, she said, was a complete surprise.
“We were just outside our house in Barangay 86, San Jose, waiting for the Pope’s convoy to pass by when suddenly, he stopped at our home. No one had informed us that he would be visiting,” she said, adding that the brief encounter lasted only a few minutes.
One of the Pope’s security personnel handed them a rosary, which they have kept at their altar as a cherished souvenir.
Aside from Aguilar, Pope Francis also blessed her husband, Ruby, 48, their daughter Elizabeth, and the families of her three siblings.
The Aguilar family’s joy was bittersweet, as they had suffered a devastating loss during Yolanda.
Their son, Rodgen, who was seven years old at the time, was swept away by the storm surge.
“We were taking shelter at the house of a relative when the storm surge hit us, and I lost my grip on him. We searched for his body, but we never found him,” Aguilar said, her voice filled with emotion.
Several of their relatives also perished in the typhoon.
Since May 2015, the Aguilars have been living in Pope Francis-SM Cares Village, one of the resettlement communities established for survivors.
