26.6 C
Tacloban City
September 29, 2026 - Tuesday | 7:13 PM
Home Blog Page 805

DOT execs unveil mural painting showing EV’s top tourist destinations

0
MURAL PAINTING. A mural painting, showing some of Eastern Visayas tourism destination was unveiled along Magsaysay Boulevard on Wednesday, Sept.11. The mural painting, dubbed as ‘Love Biodiversity’ was spearheaded by the Department of Tourism.(DOT-Eastern Visayas)
MURAL PAINTING. A mural painting, showing some of Eastern Visayas tourism destination was unveiled along Magsaysay Boulevard on Wednesday, Sept.11. The mural painting, dubbed as ‘Love Biodiversity’ was spearheaded by the Department of Tourism.(DOT-Eastern Visayas)

TACLOBAN CITY – The regional office of the Department of Tourism (DOT) unveiled the ‘Love Biodiversity’ mural painting on Magsaysay Boulevard on Wednesday, September 11.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by DOT Assistant Secretary Gissela Romualdez Quisumbing, DOT8 Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes, City Tourism Officer Malou Tabao, representing Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez, along with tourism stakeholders and local media.

The mural, themed “Love Inspired: Philippines, a Canvas of Biodiversity,” showcases some of the region’s top tourist destinations, including its rich endemic flora and fauna.

Featured attractions include the Biri Rock Formations in Biri, Northern Samar; the Samar Island Natural Park; Tarangban Falls in Calbayog City; Lake Danao in Ormoc City; San Juanico Bridge, Sogod Bay; Cuatro Islas which is in Inopacan and Hindang, Leyte; and Mahagnao Volcano in Burauen, Leyte.

Created by local artists Kim Clinton Gonzales and Andrew Abainza, the mural provides a “visual road trip” for travelers and pedestrians along Magsaysay Boulevard, Tiopes said.
Tiopes explained that the mural was placed in this scenic location with the hope of inspiring the public to protect natural resources for future generations.

The unveiling of the Love Biodiversity mural is part of the lead-up to the celebration of World Tourism Day on September 27, and National Tourism Week during the last week of September.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

Cayetano Building at City College Of Ormoc in the works

0

ORMOC CITY– The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office (DEO) breaks ground on the construction of Cayetano Building at the City College of Ormoc (CCO), Ormoc City, Leyte on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.

The P74.25 million-infrastructure project is funded under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) 2024 and is slated for completion on March 2025. It is a four-story building with a roof deck, boasting a total floor area of 2,264 sq.m. across all four floors, excluding the roof deck. Each floor spans 566 sq.m., providing ample space to create a conducive learning environment for students.

The ground floor will house 37-sq.m. administrative spaces, including a board room for school administrators, a conference room, a faculty room, as well as offices for human resources, procurement, and accounting. It will also feature a 75-sq.m. computer laboratory to support the college’s growing technological programs and a spacious lobby that doubles as a student lounge.

On the second and third floors, there will be six classrooms, each covering an area of 112 sq.m., capable of accommodating a substantial number of students while the entire fourth floor is designated for a state-of-the-art auditorium. Moreover, comfort rooms will be available on each floor.

Once completed, it is set to improve the learning experience of the growing student population in CCO. Congressman Richard I. Gomez, Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez, CCO faculty, and barangay officials were present at the ceremony.(PR)

Tingog party-list lauds arrest of Quiboloy who is accused of string of sex-related cases involving minors

0
PNP HONORED. Rep. Jude Acidre of Tingog party-list group lauded the Philippine National Police for their arrest of controversial pastor Apollo Quiboloy, 16 days after the former went into hiding inside their Kingdom of Jesus Christ in Davao City.(PHOTO COURTESY)
PNP HONORED. Rep. Jude Acidre of Tingog party-list group lauded the Philippine National Police for their arrest of controversial pastor Apollo Quiboloy, 16 days after the former went into hiding inside their Kingdom of Jesus Christ in Davao City.(PHOTO COURTESY)

TACLOBAN CITY — Tingog party-list has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of children and women while commending the recent arrest of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy as a victory for his victims and a significant achievement for Philippine law enforcement.

In a press conference on Wednesday, Sept.11, Tingog party-list Representative Jude Acidre praised the police for their work in apprehending Quiboloy, the leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), who is facing multiple legal cases.

Acidre expressed gratitude for the efforts of the authorities, particularly General Torre, despite the potentially hostile environment.

“I really commend them because I know how challenging the situation was, but they upheld the rule of law,” Acidre said, as he emphasized that the arrest of Quiboloy is not just about the high-profile figure, but about justice for the victims of human trafficking and abuse.

“While some may focus on Pastor Quiboloy, we in Tingog party-list are deeply committed to the issues of child welfare and human trafficking,” Acidre stated. “This is about the victims—the people who were trafficked, the minors sent abroad and forced into marriages, and those affected by the crimes that occurred.”

Quiboloy’s arrest followed a 16-day manhunt that culminated at the KOJC compound in Davao City, where he and other suspects were taken into custody last Sep.8. The preacher has long faced accusations related to exploitation and abuse within his church.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

Leyte SP approves P10.06 billion AIP for 2025

0

TACLOBAN CITY – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Leyte approved the annual investment plan (AIP) for 2025 on Tuesday, September 10, with a total budget allocation of P10.06 billion.

Board Member Carlo Loreto of Leyte’s 5th district highlighted the approval as a significant milestone for the province, paving the way for crucial development projects and initiatives in the coming year.

Loreto explained that the 2025 AIP, which is lower compared to the current’s P13.46 billion, covers a broad range of budgetary priorities aimed at enhancing Leyte’s infrastructure and services.

AIP is a comprehensive document that outlines the proposed development projects, programs, and expenditures for a local government unit (LGU) for a specific year.

It serves as a financial and strategic plan that allocates resources to priority areas such as infrastructure, social services, economic development, and disaster preparedness.

Key areas include road development, slope protection measures, bridge construction, water system improvements, upgrades to hospital facilities, school building construction, social service provision, and disaster preparedness equipment acquisition.

“These strategic investments underscore the provincial government’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth, improving public services, and ensuring the welfare and safety of Leyteños,” Loreto emphasized.

The board member also stressed the importance of road infrastructure funding, noting that enhanced road networks will improve connectivity and accessibility across Leyte.
In addition to smoother transportation, this will stimulate economic activities, promote tourism, and create employment opportunities for local residents.

The focus on slope protection and bridge construction reflects the government’s dedication to boosting safety and resilience against natural disasters like landslides and floods, he added.

Loreto further noted that investments in water systems and hospital facilities underscore the province’s commitment to essential public services.

Access to clean, reliable water is vital for promoting public health, while enhanced hospital facilities will ensure residents have access to quality healthcare services when needed.
He also emphasized the allocation of funds for school buildings and social services, reinforcing the government’s dedication to education and social welfare.

By improving educational facilities, the province aims to provide better learning environments and access to quality education.

Meanwhile, investments in social services will support marginalized communities, promote social equity, and address the needs of vulnerable populations.

Lastly, Loreto pointed out the inclusion of disaster preparedness equipment in the AIP, highlighting the government’s proactive approach to enhancing resilience and emergency response capabilities.

This investment aims to mitigate the impacts of natural calamities, protect lives and properties, and ensure swift, effective crisis responses.

“The approval of the AIP for 2025 is a significant milestone for Leyte, laying out a strategic roadmap for sustainable development and improved quality of life for all Leyteños,” Loreto concluded.

“The comprehensive allocation of resources for infrastructure, services, and disaster preparedness demonstrates our commitment to promoting growth, resilience, and the well-being of our people.”
(ROEL T. AMAZONA/LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

Faking public service

0

Far too many politicians nowadays have mastered the art of disguising their actions as public service while secretly maneuvering to secure their place in the political arena. They champion causes, appear at charity events, and tirelessly vocalize their concern for the common man—but often with ulterior motives. Behind their carefully curated public personas, many are more concerned with ensuring their political survival and weakening their opponents than genuinely serving the people.

Politicians often weaponize the mechanisms of governance, using public resources not to benefit the people but to maintain their grip on power. Social programs, which should be designed to uplift the most vulnerable, are often co-opted as tools for political patronage. Infrastructure projects are announced with much fanfare, but delays, substandard work, and inflated costs expose a web of corruption and self-interest. In times of crisis, such as natural disasters or economic downturns, politicians are quick to take center stage, promising swift action and support. Yet, these moments often become little more than photo opportunities, with true, meaningful aid lagging behind.

While politicians stage their performances, they are also relentless in their efforts to paralyze their opponents. Smear campaigns, strategic disinformation, and the misuse of legal processes are all part of their playbook. The goal is clear: discredit the opposition and consolidate power at all costs. Instead of fostering healthy debates on policy and governance, they focus on divisive rhetoric that distracts from their own failures. The energy that could be directed toward solving real issues is instead spent on political maneuvering and one-upmanship, leaving the public disillusioned and underserved. This toxic cycle of politics as a battleground only deepens societal divides and hampers progress.

Fortunately, the public has grown wiser to these tactics. People can now easily discern whether politicians are truly working for the country’s good or merely advancing their own interests. Social media and widespread access to information have empowered citizens to scrutinize their leaders’ actions like never before. Public outrage over blatant self-serving actions is often swift and unforgiving, as seen in the backlash against politicians caught prioritizing personal gain over public welfare. The electorate’s growing awareness and skepticism should compel some politicians to rethink their approach, not cling to the old ways, hoping to fool the public with empty gestures.

The days of unaccountable public service masquerading as genuine leadership are numbered. People are no longer easily swayed by grandstanding and hollow promises, including bribe money. They demand substance over spectacle, integrity over empty showmanship. Politicians who fail to adapt to this new reality will find themselves increasingly marginalized, as the electorate becomes more discerning and demands true accountability. The future belongs to those who genuinely serve, not those who merely pretend. Armed with awareness and conviction, people can dismantle the carefully crafted illusions of those who prioritize politics over public service.Fortunately, the public has grown wiser to these tactics. People can now easily discern whether politicians are truly working for the country’s good or merely advancing their own interests. Social media and widespread access to information have empowered citizens to scrutinize their leaders’ actions like never before. Public outrage over blatant self-serving actions is often swift and unforgiving, as seen in the backlash against politicians caught prioritizing personal gain over public welfare. The electorate’s growing awareness and skepticism should compel some politicians to rethink their approach, not cling to the old ways, hoping to fool the public with empty gestures.

The days of unaccountable public service masquerading as genuine leadership are numbered. People are no longer easily swayed by grandstanding and hollow promises, including bribe money. They demand substance over spectacle, integrity over empty showmanship. Politicians who fail to adapt to this new reality will find themselves increasingly marginalized, as the electorate becomes more discerning and demands true accountability. The future belongs to those who genuinely serve, not those who merely pretend. Armed with awareness and conviction, people can dismantle the carefully crafted illusions of those who prioritize politics over public service.

A big win for Eastern Visayas

0
DOMS PAGLIAWAN
DOMS PAGLIAWAN

As someone who has experienced the challenges of traveling between Tacloban and Cebu, I can’t help but feel a surge of relief and excitement with the resumption of sea travel between these two vital cities. The recent launch of a new vessel connecting Tacloban and Cebu is more than just good news; it’s a lifeline for many of us in Eastern Visayas. This direct sea route provides a much-needed alternative for travelers, especially those burdened by heavy luggage or vehicles. It’s a fresh breath of convenience and comfort that has been sorely missed over the years.

Traveling by road via Ormoc from Tacloban to Cebu, while necessary at times, has always been an exhausting ordeal. I remember the countless hours spent on cramped vans, enduring bumpy rides and long waits at ports and terminals just to get there. The journey is not only tiresome but also time-consuming and stressful, especially for those of us traveling with families, elderly companions, or lots of cargo. With the return of sea travel, these woes can finally be set aside. We now have the option to relax aboard a vessel, enjoying the scenic route without the usual hassles.

This new connection also brings significant economic benefits to Eastern Visayas. For business owners, the direct sea route between Tacloban and Cebu opens up more opportunities for trade and commerce. Transporting goods has always been a challenge, particularly for large shipments that are difficult to manage on long road trips. With the vessel now in service, businesses can move their products more efficiently and at a lower cost. This will undoubtedly help boost local industries, support small businesses, and create more economic activity in the region.

For travelers like me, the reintroduction of sea travel means the freedom to move without the constant worry about how much baggage we can carry. I’ve had my share of frustrating moments at bus terminals, wrestling with luggage and trying to fit everything into a small cargo hold. With this vessel, I can bring what I need without the extra stress. It’s a game-changer for families who need to travel with bulky items or vehicles, making mobility between Tacloban and Cebu so much easier and more manageable.

Moreover, the resumption of this route isn’t just about convenience; it’s about restoring a sense of normalcy. After years of interruptions, having this direct connection feels like a step towards rebuilding the robust network of sea travel that once thrived in our region. It brings back memories of when taking a boat to Cebu was part of the everyday rhythm of life, connecting families, businesses, and communities. The ease of boarding a ship and knowing that you’re on a direct route to your destination is something I have truly missed.

Another aspect I deeply appreciate is the comfort that comes with sea travel. Unlike road trips, where we are cramped and constantly jostled around, the vessel allows passengers to relax, stretch out, and even enjoy a meal as they travel. The onboard amenities make the journey pleasant, transforming what used to be an exhausting trek into a more enjoyable experience. For those of us who have always preferred the calm and steady pace of sea travel, this is a welcome return to a more relaxed way of getting around.

This development is especially beneficial for the people of Eastern Visayas, who have long dealt with the logistical challenges of island living. The direct Tacloban-Cebu sea route means improved access to healthcare, education, and other essential services in Cebu, which many of us rely on. It’s not just a transport service; it’s a vital link that connects us to opportunities and resources that can improve our quality of life. I feel a renewed sense of optimism for our region, knowing that our mobility is improving and our options are expanding.

In the end, the resumption of sea travel between Tacloban and Cebu is more than just a transportation update—it’s a reminder of the resilience and adaptability of our communities. This new vessel represents a bridge not just between cities, but between the past and a hopeful future where travel is easier, more accessible, and far more convenient. As someone who has navigated the highs and lows of these journeys, I can say with confidence that this is a big win for all of us in Eastern Visayas.

Recent Posts

DALMACIO C. GRAFIL
PUBLISHER

ALMA GRAFIL
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ROMEO CEBREROS
OFFICE IN-CHARGE

OFFICE
BRGY. SONGCO, BORONGAN CITY

CONTACT NUMBERS
(055) 261 – 3319 | 0955 251 1533 | 0917 771 0320 | 0915 897 7439 | 0921 511 0010

DALMACIO C. GRAFIL
PUBLISHER

RICKY J. BAUTISTA
EDITOR

ALMA GRAFIL
BUS. MANAGER

OFFICE
RIZAL AVENUE, CATBALOGAN
(INFRONT OF FIRE DEPARTMENT, NEAR CITY HALL)

CONTACT NUMBERS
0917 771 0320 | 0915 897 7439 | 0921 511 0010

EMAIL
lsdaily2@yahoo.com

WEBSITE
www.issuu.com/samarweeklyexpress