TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) – Tacloban City District Engineering Office (TCDEO) is constructing a 144.7-million flood control structure along the Camansihay River, Tacloban City, which will soon safeguard the nearby community from potential flooding.

The construction of this project, now in its early stages, aims to prevent water accumulation that could affect nearby residential areas, a local school, and a commercial establishment.

With heavy rainfall contributing to water build-up, the structure is expected to play a critical role in protecting the community.

The 730-lineal-meter stone masonry flood control structure will help manage water flow and prevent the dangerous build-up that leads to flooding.

“This project is crucial in protecting the community. Upon completion, this flood control structure will greatly lower the risk of flooding from heavy rains and water accumulation, providing a safer place for them,” said District Engineer Rebecca G. Yuse.

(PUBLIC INFORMATION UNIT)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Fishery Law Enforcement Team (FLET) spearheaded a cleanup drive at the city’s harbor on March 21, following heavy rains that washed large amounts of trash into Panalaron Bay, one of Tacloban’s major water bodies.

Led by Mark Deody Nerja, the initiative aimed to clear accumulated waste from the harbor and prevent further pollution.

According to the Tacloban City Information Office, the waste buildup resulted from improper disposal practices and rain-induced runoff carrying debris into the bay.

In response, the local government urged barangays along waterways and coastal areas to enforce proper waste management policies to help mitigate pollution.

The city also reaffirmed its commitment to the “Libong Mo, Limpyo Mo” initiative, which promotes responsible waste disposal and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations.

(LANCE ARCHIE TORING, LNU STUDENT INTERN)

ORMOC CITY– A construction worker was shot dead after being forcibly taken from his home by four armed men claiming to be police officers at around 11:20 p.m. on March 20 in Sitio Quarry, Barangay Tumamak, Villaba, Leyte.

The victim was identified as alias “Mike”, 43, and a resident of the area.

According to an initial police investigation, the victim was asleep with his family when the four suspects knocked on their door, introduced themselves as police officers, and forcibly took him outside. About 100 meters from his house, the assailants shot him multiple times, resulting in his instantaneous death.

The Villaba Municipal Police Station immediately requested assistance from the Ormoc Forensic Unit to process the crime scene.

Upon examination, SOCO (Scene of the Crime Operatives) found multiple fatal gunshot wounds, particularly on the head, neck, and chest.

Seven empty shells of a .45 caliber pistol at the scene.

Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to identify the suspects and determine the motive behind the killing.

(ROBERT DEJON)

TACLOBAN CITY – The number of local government units (LGUs) in the region declared as having a stable internal peace and security condition (SIPSC) continues to grow as government forces intensify efforts to achieve a fully insurgency-free region.

Recently, the 43rd Infantry Battalion led the SIPSC declaration of four towns in Northern Samar: Lavezares – declared on March 12, 2025; Victoria – declared on March 13, 2025; San Isidro – declared on March 18, 2025; and San Antonio – declared on March 20, 2025.
A locality is granted SIPSC status when it is deemed cleared of communist influence, unaffected by insurgency, and relatively peaceful. The local peace and order council recommends the declaration to the municipal or city council or the provincial board for approval.

The SIPSC status is expected to promote economic growth, poverty reduction, and enhanced basic services, according to Lt. Col. Jomar Buban, Assistant Division Chief of Civil-Military Operations of the 8th Infantry Division.

“This declaration is expected to enhance the region’s image, fostering a transition from its previous status as an insurgency stronghold to a region characterized by peace and significant potential for economic development,” Buban said during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum hosted by the Philippine Information Agency.

As of February 2025, the 8th Infantry Division has recorded at least 70 LGUs in Eastern Visayas under SIPSC, including Biliran province and the cities of Baybay, Maasin, and Calbayog.

Among the towns, 16 in Eastern Samar; 14 in Southern Leyte; 10 each in Leyte and Samar; and 8 in Northern Samar.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)