Cebu Councilor Urges Halt to SRP Flood Control Project Over Legal and Community Concerns

Cebu City Councilor Pastor \"Jun\" Alcover Jr. has called on the Office of the Mayor to suspend the ongoing flood control or road extension project at South Road Properties (SRP) until all legal protocols and procedural requirements are fully met. In a resolution submitted to the City Council, Alcover highlighted concerns over the project proceeding without mandatory consultations with key stakeholders, including fisherfolk, local residents, and urban poor communities residing along the SRP coastline. Alcover emphasized, \"Proper coordination with concerned agencies, both national and local, remains insufficient, raising issues of transparency, accountability, and due process in project implementation.\" The resolution was deliberated during an executive session of the council on August 19, 2025, where members questioned the legitimacy of the project, describing it as \"questionable\" due to its bypassing of certain procedural standards. According to Alcover, the lack of community engagement infringes on the rights of those directly affected by the development, while the inadequate collaboration between government bodies undermines the project\'s transparency and accountability. While acknowledging the value of infrastructure improvements like flood control and road expansion, the resolution insists such initiatives must conform strictly to legal frameworks and respect the welfare of impacted communities. It stresses that large-scale projects ought to fulfill not only technical criteria but also involve inclusive consultations where residents and other stakeholders are informed and given opportunities to express their views. Alcover warned that failing to observe these requirements risks causing displacement, loss of livelihoods, and environmental damage to the SRP vicinity. As a vocal advocate for greater oversight of significant city undertakings, Alcover has repeatedly pressed for enhanced transparency and responsibility in public works execution. He stated that pausing the SRP project even temporarily is essential to prevent legal complications and to protect the rights of vulnerable populations. \"This approach ensures the City Government operates within the bounds of the law while safeguarding marginalized communities,\" Alcover remarked.

Local Civil Registrar Advances Digitalization with Equipment Upgrade and Staffing Boost

The Local Civil Registrar (LCR) Office is moving forward with its digital transformation initiative by equipping all district offices with computers, aiming to streamline public transactions and minimize the need for in-person visits to the central office. Orlando Alvaira, head of the Adoption Section, detailed the plan during a September 23 interview on Davao City Disaster Radio, stating, \"Our digitalization strategy involves outfitting every district office with computers so that when the system is fully operational, all records and transactions will be complete and fully integrated.\" Alvaira revealed that the upcoming system enhancements will allow residents to track their document requests online. Future improvements are expected to enable online payments and provide digital filing options, status updates, and notifications. To accelerate the digitization of millions of records, the LCR Office intends to recruit 10 additional personnel specifically tasked with scanning the existing physical documents. Currently, online access to vital documents such as birth certificates and Certificates of No Marriage (CENOMAR) is unavailable through the city’s system as most records remain in analog form. Alvaira recommended residents to utilize the Philippine Statistics Authority’s PSA Serbilis service for expedited document retrieval. Complementing these efforts, Councilor Bonz Andre Militar, chair of the Committee on Information Technology, confirmed that equipment designed to convert paper records into digital formats is expected to arrive soon. He explained, \"Due to the overwhelming volume of records, manual processing is unfeasible. Therefore, we have procured equipment to systematically digitize all paper documents.\" Militar also noted that the digitalization platform is currently under development by the Davao City Information Technology Center (CITC). This advancement is in response to an ordinance approved by the 20th City Council on December 12, 2024, which mandates the implementation of the Civil Registration Information System (CRIS). A recent committee report highlighted the critical need for digitalization, citing the extensive backlog and deterioration of records, including those lost in a fire. The files encompass over 1.35 million birth certificates dated from 1963 to 1989, 624,000 marriage certificates between 1945 and 2022, 702,000 death certificates, and 27.8 million LICD attachments up to 2024. Officials underscored that additional manpower and new scanning technology are essential to preserving these valuable records and ensuring the efficiency and accessibility of civil registry services moving forward.

Arthur Craig Pantino Granted Wild Card Entry in 42nd PCA Open Tennis Championships

Arthur Craig Pantino, a Cebu-born Davis Cup player, has been awarded a wild card entry to compete in the 42nd Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Open Tennis Championships, set to commence this weekend at the PCA indoor shell court in Paco, Manila. Pantino will join other wild card recipients including local players Miguel Lagac, Rap Teng, Al Zayeed Baid, Christian Balang, Raymond Padigos, as well as Thailand’s Tanakorn Srirat. Pantino recently played a key role in the Philippine team’s 2-0 victory over Kyrgyzstan during the Asia Oceania Group IV play-offs held last July in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This triumph secured the country’s promotion to Group III in the Davis Cup. He partnered with teammates Albert Lim Jr., Eric “Jed” Olivarez, Francis Casey Alcantara, and Ruben Gonzales throughout that campaign. Albert Lim Jr., the defending PCA Open singles champion, had previously claimed the title by defeating Olivarez decisively last year, winning 6-3, 6-1, 6-1 in the final. For Pantino, the experience matters more than expectations. The 24-year-old sociology graduate from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles stated, \"I’m not expecting anything at the PCA Open. I just want to enjoy and we’ll see how it goes.\" Qualifying matches are currently in progress, with eight players scheduled to advance to the 64-man main draw. In last year’s doubles events, Albert Lim and Angeline Alcala won the mixed doubles title by defeating Rolly Saga and Joanna Tan, 6-2, 6-3. Meanwhile, Marian Capadocia continued her dominance by securing her 10th consecutive women’s singles championship, overcoming Khim Iglupas with a score of 6-2, 6-4. In the women’s doubles, Rovie Baulate and Elsie Abarquez triumphed over Bambi Zoleta and Aileen Rogan, 6-3, 6-2.

Digos City Prioritizes Welfare of Rescued Street Families and Individuals

Digos City Mayor Josef Cagas has instructed the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to give utmost priority to the fundamental needs and overall well-being of street families and individuals recently rescued. The mayor conducted a personal visit to those currently sheltered under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XI’s Pag-abot Program, coordinated with the CSWDO’s SAGIP Program. According to the city government, seven families and three individuals are presently housed at the Igpit Isolation Facility following the latest Reach Out Activity. Each occupant is provided with a private room featuring an ensuite bathroom, ensuring privacy and comfort. The facility benefits from regular maintenance and sanitation, supported by the City Greening Program. While residents remain under the care of DSWD and CSWDO personnel, the city affirms that all essential supplies and services are being supplied. Mayor Cagas emphasized the importance of supporting these vulnerable groups during their stay at the facility, which will continue until the DSWD completes the necessary documentation for their reintegration or return. "We are committed to safeguarding the welfare of these families and individuals," the city government stated, reflecting the administration’s compassionate approach to social welfare.

Class Suspensions Announced Across Multiple Regions Due to Severe Tropical Storm Opong

Local government units (LGUs) have announced class suspensions scheduled for tomorrow in response to the approaching Severe Tropical Storm "Opong" (international name: Bualoi). The suspensions differ by area and education level, covering both public and private institutions. In the National Capital Region, Manila has suspended all classes across all levels and modes of instruction. Marikina has halted only face-to-face classes. Meanwhile, Muntinlupa and Parañaque have suspended all classes for all students. Within Central Luzon, Santa Maria, Marilao, and Pampanga are suspending all classes across public and private schools. Bocaue will suspend only face-to-face classes, while San Fernando is suspending classes conducted via alternative learning modes. In the CALABARZON region, Laguna, Rizal, and Cavite are suspending all classes at all levels and modalities. For MIMAROPA, San Jose in Occidental Mindoro has declared a full suspension of classes, while Mamburao has suspended only alternative delivery modes. Negros Oriental will keep classes suspended until further notice. The Bicol Region faces the longest suspensions: Sorsogon and Masbate, along with Viga and several municipalities in Camarines Norte as well as Camarines Sur, have all suspended classes until the threat subsides. Eastern Visayas, specifically Biliran, has also suspended all classes across public and private schools until further updates. Officials urge residents to stay informed and prioritize safety amid the ongoing weather disturbances.

Over 2,500 Iloilo City Residents Evacuated Due to Tropical Storm Opong

Iloilo City has seen the displacement of 2,529 residents across 25 barangays due to the impacts of tropical storm "Opong," as of 1 p.m. on September 26. The affected individuals are currently sheltered in more than 450 evacuation centers spread across the city’s seven districts. Joy Fantilaga-Gorzal, spokesperson for Mayor Raisa Treñas, reported that the evacuations were primarily focused on low-lying and coastal barangays most vulnerable to the storm's heavy rains and strong winds. "As of 1 p.m. (Friday, September 26), 691 families or 2,529 individuals have been relocated to our evacuation facilities," she stated. These evacuation centers, which have the capacity to accommodate over 45,000 families or upwards of 200,000 people, are supported by activated community kitchens. These kitchens ensure that evacuees receive hot meals, and similar services have been extended to stranded passengers at Lapuz ro-ro port and Parola wharf. Tropical storm "Opong" intensified the southwest monsoon, causing heavy to intense rainfall throughout Iloilo City and the broader Western Visayas region. The storm’s strong winds have also caused tree falls and power outages in various areas. "Our emergency response teams continue to operate around the clock, addressing reports of fallen trees and other hazards to safeguard residents," Fantilaga-Gorzal added. City officials urge individuals living in flood-prone and coastal zones to follow evacuation orders promptly. They emphasized that early preventive actions could be critical in ensuring residents’ safety amid rising river levels. Meanwhile, the Iloilo City Emergency Operations Center maintains close coordination with barangay leaders and national agencies, actively monitoring the situation and preparing additional relief efforts should the number of evacuees rise further.

Cebu City Council Raises Concerns Over Undocumented Equipment Donation to Barangay Mabini

During the regular session on Tuesday, Cebu City Council Minority Floor Leader Sisinio Andales expressed serious concerns regarding the alleged donation of three major pieces of heavy equipment to Barangay Mabini. He pointed out the absence of essential legal documents, such as a deed of donation or deed of acceptance, which are required to formalize the transfer. Andales described the transaction as irregular from the outset due to the lack of legislative consent and necessary paperwork. He recalled that on June 25, 2025, former councilor Rey Gealon withdrew a resolution proposing the donation of an excavator, a wheel loader, and a road roller, following doubts about ownership, timing, and purpose. Furthermore, former councilor Mary Ann de los Santos had earlier observed that the equipment was originally designated not for Barangay Mabini’s use but for city-wide maintenance projects managed by the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW). Andales emphasized that the absence of a signed deed of donation from former Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia undermines the validity of the donation. He stressed the importance of transparency and adherence to proper procedures in managing public assets. In response to the controversy, the council has instructed the Department of General Services (DGS) to investigate the status and utilization of the equipment, which remains under the custody of Barangay Mabini. Councilor Joel Garganera also noted that since the resolution was revoked, the proposed donation lacks any legal foundation. He further expressed doubts about the barangay’s technical capacity to operate and maintain the heavy machinery effectively.

Concerns Raised Over Newly Completed Drainage and Road Project in Barangay Margot

Community leader and former priest Cris Cadiang has voiced serious concerns over the recently completed drainage system, road, and fence project in Barangay Margot. Describing the infrastructure as an "accident waiting to happen," Cadiang highlighted the dangers posed by the construction to local residents and commuters. Cadiang explained that the project involved widening a creek known locally as "Butarul," which channels rainwater from Clark to the Abacan River. Despite the effort to improve floodwater passage, he criticized the Clark Development Corporation (CDC), which spearheaded the project, for neglecting pedestrian safety. "During construction, the fence was torn down, and I expected that when rebuilt, CDC would allocate at least two meters for a sidewalk to prevent it from becoming a hazard," Cadiang stated on social media. He argued that the CDC Engineering Department should have set aside easement spaces on both sides of the road, using existing electric posts as markers for where the fence could have been placed. Cadiang lamented, "Granting that the area is Clark property, two meters is a minor concession compared to the size of Clark. The lack of consideration shows insensitivity, irresponsibility, and disregard for the safety of the public." Efforts are reportedly underway by barangay officials to engage the CDC to address the issue. While a yellow-black painted warning on the wall offers some caution, Cadiang emphasized that the underlying dangers remain unresolved. A CDC manager responded that their Engineering Department merely restored the structure without altering the original design, implying the safety measures were consistent with previous configurations. The debate underscores concerns about balancing infrastructure development and public safety in local projects.

Typhoon Opong Devastates Northern Samar Islands, Relief Operations Underway

Typhoon Opong wreaked havoc on two island municipalities in Northern Samar early Friday morning as it intensified while leaving the Samar mainland. The towns of Capul and San Vicente suffered extensive damage, especially in areas with predominantly lightweight housing. Rei Josiah Echano, the province’s disaster risk reduction officer, reported that the devastation is so severe that no formal damage assessments have been submitted due to the collapse of communication networks and critical infrastructure. "None, they can\"t submit (a report) because these towns are flattened right now," Echano confirmed regarding the absence of official damage data. In response, Northern Samar Governor Harris Ongchuan swiftly mobilized a team of emergency responders from the provincial health, social welfare, and disaster agencies to deliver essential aid such as food and shelter materials to affected communities. "We will validate the data and sharpen our strategic interventions for recovery and rehabilitation," Governor Ongchuan stated. San Vicente, a remote island municipality with a population of 9,260 as of the 2020 Census, is accessible only by a two-hour boat journey from Allen town. Capul, a historic fifth-class municipality housing 12,323 residents, lies about one hour from the mainland by motorized boat. Jemmy Pedrola, chief weather specialist at PAGASA Catarman, detailed that Opong made landfall in San Policarpo, Eastern Samar, just before midnight Thursday. It then tracked through Catubig, Lope de Vega, San Isidro, and finally reached San Vicente early Friday morning, carrying maximum sustained winds of 120 kilometers per hour and moving at a speed of 30 kilometers per hour. San Vicente Mayor Edgar Catarongan Jr. estimated that approximately 2,600 households in coastal barangays experienced severe storm impacts. The provincial government has requested further relief support from the Department of Social Welfare and Development while distributing shelter kits provided by the Office of Civil Defense to assist displaced families. On a broader scale, as of 3 p.m. Friday, the OCD Eastern Visayas reported that Typhoon Opong affected 7,575 families totaling 27,653 individuals across Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Samar, Leyte, and Biliran. Currently, 1,204 families (4,260 individuals) are housed in 43 evacuation centers while 301 families (1,139 individuals) receive assistance outside formal evacuation sites. Tragically, a drowning fatality was confirmed in Biliran province. Additionally, 12 people are missing following boat capsizes in Guiuan and Maydolong, Eastern Samar, caused by rough sea conditions. One motorized banca traveling from Guiuan to Homonhon Island capsized between Manicani and Homonhon on Thursday, but all seven passengers were rescued the next day by the Philippine Coast Guard and Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Guiuan. Search efforts remain ongoing for five fishermen from Maydolong who have been missing since setting out to sea on September 23.

Farmer Arrested for Stealing Water Pump in Cebu City

A 41-year-old farmer was taken into custody after being caught stealing a water pump in Sitio Bonbon Proper, Barangay Bonbon, a mountainous area in Cebu City, at approximately 12:20 a.m. on Sunday, September 28, 2025. The suspect, identified as Adones Ibarita, who resides in the same neighborhood, was reported to the Malubog Police Station 12. According to police investigation, while Alexander Ibarita, 68, the owner of the water pump and relative of the suspect, was asleep, he heard noises outside his property. Upon checking, he found Adones attempting to take the water pump. The victim quickly apprehended his nephew and handed him over to the authorities. The stolen water pump, valued at PHP 8,000, was recovered. Charges for theft are being prepared against the suspect by the local police.