Lumbaca Unayan Declares Liberation from Terrorist Influence, Launches New Peace Task Force

The Municipal Council of Lumbaca Unayan in Lanao del Sur proclaimed on Thursday, November 20, 2025, that the municipality has been cleared of the influence of the Dawlah Islamiya-Maute Group (DI-MG) and the New People's Army (NPA). Lieutenant Colonel Jerry Gaviola, commander of the 64th Infantry Battalion, confirmed that this declaration was formalized through Municipal Council Resolutions 16 and 17. He emphasized that these resolutions represent the community’s unified rejection of terrorism and local armed militants. To commemorate the declaration, a peace rally took place at the municipal hall in Barangay Oriental Beta. The event also marked the establishment of the Municipal Task Force-Ending Local Armed Conflict (MT-ELAC), designed as a strategic mechanism to maintain peace and deter the resurgence of violent extremist groups in the area. MT-ELAC aligns closely with the national government’s National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). The celebration featured a motorcade, a walk rally, and the symbolic burning of the ISIS flag to demonstrate the community’s strong stand against violent extremism. The DI-MG has been linked to numerous civilian casualties and widespread fear throughout affected localities. Gaviola described the day as a pivotal moment for Lumbaca Unayan, saying, \"Today marks a turning point for our municipality. By standing together, we send a powerful message that we will never allow fear, violence, or extremism to rule our community again.\" He also praised the community’s bravery, stating, \"Your courage to stand against extremism is the true foundation of lasting peace.\" The declaration follows recent successful security operations on November 15 in Pagayawan, where authorities neutralized Najib Laguindab, alias Abu Jihad, a key DI-MG leader. Brigadier General Yasser Bara of the 1101st Infantry Brigade noted that Abu Jihad was responsible for orchestrating the December 3, 2023 bombing at Mindanao State University’s Dimaporo Gymnasium in Marawi City, which resulted in four deaths and 50 injuries during a mass. Gaviola stated that Abu Jihad’s elimination significantly diminished extremist sway across Lanao del Sur and reinforced the importance of grassroots peace efforts. With MT-ELAC now operational, the municipal government, military, and police have committed to reinforcing peace initiatives, improving inter-agency coordination, and advancing development programs to fortify Lumbaca Unayan against future radicalization. This collective stance represents a major advancement toward a safer, more peaceful Lanao del Sur predicated on cooperation, vigilance, and optimism.

Pampanga Lawmaker Leads Inspection of Sapangbato Watershed No-Build Zone

Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. led an inspection at the Sapangbato Watershed in Angeles City to assess compliance with the designated “No Build Zone.” Lazatin emphasized the importance of preventing new construction and deforestation within the protected area.\n\n"We must ensure that no new structures are erected and no trees are cut down within the Sapangbato Watershed's protected zone," Lazatin stated.\n\nThe inspection was conducted alongside officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), the Angeles City local government, Lazatin's Chief Political Affairs Officer Reina Manuel, and members of the media.\n\nOn November 11, 2025, Lazatin filed House Resolution No. 446, which calls on the DENR to oversee proper implementation of the Angeles City Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP), particularly in relation to safeguarding protected agricultural lands and the no-build areas of Sapangbato.\n\nHe also urged the Angeles City government to actively enforce the CLUP provisions to prevent encroachments. Lazatin further appealed to the media and local residents to report any illegal construction activities within the protected watershed.\n\nHighlighting the significance of community involvement, Lazatin said, "We have witnessed how deforestation in other towns has exacerbated flooding during storms. Now more than ever, we must unite our efforts to protect the Sapangbato Watershed."\n\nAdditionally, on November 12, Lazatin joined the House Special Committee on Reforestation, which deals with policies addressing forest loss and supports community-driven reforestation initiatives aimed at sustainable environmental management.\n\nThis series of measures underscores a concerted drive to safeguard vital natural resources and mitigate disaster risks through collaborative governance and civic participation.

Police Enhance Cybersecurity Measures Following Bomb Threats at Two Negros Occidental Universities

The Police Regional Office - Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has intensified its cyber-monitoring and digital forensics efforts in response to bomb threats targeting two state universities located in southern Negros Occidental. On the evening of November 19, the police received bomb threat alerts sent via Messenger accounts associated with Western Visayas State University in Himamaylan City and Central Philippines State University in Kabankalan City. Following swift action by explosive ordnance disposal teams and local law enforcement, both campuses were declared secure shortly after midnight. According to PRO-NIR, the threats referenced allegations of "unfair treatment of faculty and staff to students." Investigations identified the account owner, who insisted that her account had been compromised. In light of these events, PRO-NIR has ramped up cooperation with the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) and specialists in information and communications technology (ICT). Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR Director, stated, \"We are collaborating closely with cybercrime investigators and ICT experts to trace the origins of these threats and ensure accountability for those responsible.\" He added, \"This partnership enables us to conduct real-time digital surveillance and rapid tracking of online bomb threats.\" The investigative process includes comprehensive technical support for analyzing digital footprints, metadata, and communication patterns, supported by ongoing intelligence sharing among law enforcement, local government agencies, and ICT professionals. Brig. Gen. Ibay called on the public to stay calm and vigilant, emphasizing that false bomb threats create unnecessary alarm and carry severe legal repercussions. \"PRO-NIR is committed to pursuing individuals who use digital platforms to incite fear.\"

Boarding House Caretaker Arrested for Alleged Sexual Assault in Cebu City

In a disturbing incident reported on November 20, 2025, a caretaker at a boarding house located in Ybañez Compound, Barangay Mambaling, Cebu City, was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a boarder. The suspect, identified as "alias Harold," 35, reportedly molested the 25-year-old victim at around 3 a.m. According to the investigation conducted by the Mambaling Police Station, the victim was asleep in her room when the suspect suddenly entered and began touching her private parts. The assault escalated as the suspect allegedly pulled down the victim's underwear and penetrated her with his finger. The victim woke up due to the attack, resisted, and managed to call for help from neighbors. Following the complaint, police apprehended the suspect and brought him to Mambaling Police Station, where he faces charges of sexual assault. Authorities have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to ensure justice for the victim.

Families of Maguindanao Massacre Victims Demand Full Justice 16 Years On

Sixteen years after the tragic Maguindanao massacre, the families of the 58 victims—including 32 journalists—continue to demand full justice, highlighting that complete accountability remains elusive despite partial convictions rendered in 2019. The Center for International Law (CenterLaw), representing some of the victims’ relatives, stressed that unresolved appeals and numerous suspects still at large hinder the full delivery of justice. "Why is it that with so many people killed, and with evidence more than sufficient, it has been 16 years and we still have no justice?" lamented Ramonita Salaysay, widow of media worker Napoleon Salaysay. "Perhaps when justice is finally served, our hearts will find peace. We won’t have to rely on sleeping pills as we have all these years," added Myrna Reblando, widow of journalist Alejandro "Bong" Reblando. In December 2019, the Quezon City Regional Trial Court convicted 28 suspects—including prominent Ampatuan clan figures—of 57 counts of murder, sentencing them to up to 40 years in prison. Fifteen others were found guilty as accessories to murder, while at least 57 accused, mostly police officers, were acquitted. Convicted individuals were ordered to pay each victim’s family PHP 100,000 in civil indemnity, moral damages, and exemplary damages. Despite the ruling, appeals remain pending before the Court of Appeals six years later. CenterLaw plans to file an urgent motion on behalf of 19 families, pressing the appellate court to promptly resolve these appeals and urging the government to provide immediate financial compensation to victims’ families. CenterLaw also revealed plans to seek judicial recognition of photojournalist Reynaldo "Bebot" Momay as the massacre’s 58th victim, pointing out the failure to include his name on official victim lists. Momay’s daughter, Ma. Reynafe, expressed the enduring pain of not having recovered her father’s remains, saying, "For 16 years, our family has carried an invisible grief—made heavier because my father’s name still waits to be fully acknowledged as a victim." The massacre occurred on November 23, 2009, when over a hundred armed men linked to the Ampatuan clan intercepted a convoy en route to file a certificate of candidacy. Among the victims were journalists, relatives of then-vice mayor Esmael Mangudadatu, lawyers, aides, and civilians. Although 197 individuals were charged, the 2019 court decision addressed only 101 suspects, with dozens still evading arrest. "Sixteen years is far too long," CenterLaw emphasized. "Full justice must not only be promised—it must finally be delivered." Human rights groups in Mindanao, including the Union of People’s Lawyers in Mindanao (UPLM), reiterated the massacre’s significance in exposing systemic impunity and called for intensified efforts to address ongoing political violence and corruption. UPLM condemned the persistence of "warlordism and state-sanctioned impunity," describing the massacre as a "brutal demonstration of how fascist mechanisms are weaponized by political dynasties to silence dissent and protect their power." The group warned that impunity continues to fuel both violence and large-scale corruption, linking the massacre’s legacy to current national scandals. UPLM has urged dismantling private armies, abolishing political dynasties, and expediting the resolution of all remaining cases. "We will never forget," UPLM declared. "The conviction of a few principals is not the end of justice. All perpetrators—whether they wield guns or pens—must be held to account. The memory of the 58 victims, and of our colleagues, is a burning flame that guides our path."

Zamboanga City Hosts Educational Visit for Iloilo Students

Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Olaso warmly received 90 students from Iloilo Science and Technology University during their educational tour of the city. The delegation visited the historic Zamboanga City Hall, which is over 118 years old, on Friday, November 21. To ensure an engaging and comfortable experience, the students were divided into two groups for their visit inside the mayor's office and the City Hall conference room. The group is scheduled to remain in the city until November 24, during which they also explored the renowned Sta. Cruz Island. The students expressed their gratitude to Mayor Olaso and the City Hall personnel for their hospitality and for providing a meaningful and enriching experience, according to an official statement from the city government.

14 Police Officers Accused of Raping 18-Year-Old Woman in Cavite

Authorities have identified fourteen police officers as suspects in the rape of an 18-year-old woman in Cavite. Initial investigations reveal that the victim was approached outside her home by a group of armed men claiming to be police officers from Canlubang. The assailants reportedly forced their way into the victim’s residence, conducting a search during which they seized her rings and cellphone. Subsequently, the suspects locked the door and committed the sexual assault inside the home. In a follow-up operation, eight of the suspects have been apprehended, while six remain at large. The Police Regional Office IV-A confirmed that the accused officers are assigned to the PNP Police Drug Enforcement Group Southern Operations Unit 4A. Evidence confiscated from the suspects includes firearms, ammunition, the victim’s cellphone and motorcycle, as well as several packets suspected to contain illegal drugs. The arrested individuals face charges of rape and robbery with violence. Authorities continue to pursue the remaining suspects to hold them accountable for these serious offenses.

Cebu City Aims for Zero Casualties Amid Tropical Depression Verbena

The Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO) has set a target of zero casualties as Tropical Depression Verbena brings adverse weather conditions to the area. Early evacuation efforts have already been implemented for residents residing in high-risk locations such as riverbanks, with special consideration given to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, and children. Councilor Dave Tumulak, chair of the CCDRRMO committee, confirmed that a coordination meeting involving barangay captains, city officials, and disaster response teams took place on Monday, November 24, 2025, to finalize preparedness plans. Tumulak emphasized the importance of adhering to restrictions on habitation near riverbanks and designated "no-build zones," policies strictly enforced by the city’s mayor, stating, \"Walay mamuyo og balik sa sapa\" (No one should return to the riverbanks). In anticipation of worsening conditions, the city plans to escalate its alert status to Code Red by Monday night, signaling the full deployment of emergency personnel, equipment, and resources. Local barangay health centers will remain operational throughout the weather event to ensure medical services are available. Utility providers such as Visayan Electric and Metro Cebu Water District (MCWD) have also prepared backup power generators to maintain critical infrastructure. Councilor Tumulak urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperative, emphasizing the distinct nature of Tropical Depression Verbena compared to previous storms: \"All preparations are in place. I ask the public not to become complacent as Verbena differs from Typhoon Tino. Although it mainly brings heavy rain, precaution is essential.\" Citizens are advised to stay informed through official advisories, avoid entering danger zones, and fully cooperate with evacuation directives as the city braces for potential flooding and hazardous weather.

Cebu City Enacts New Ordinance to Enhance Public Decency Standards

CEBU City has passed a new ordinance aimed at enforcing stricter public attire regulations to foster a respectful and family-oriented environment. On November 26, 2025, the City Council approved the "Public Decency and Attire Ordinance of the City of Cebu" during its third and final reading. Authored by Councilor Sisinio Andales, the measure sets penalties for displaying indecent or half-naked appearances in public spaces, with sanctions escalating from warnings to fines and mandatory community service for repeat violations. The ordinance applies to a wide range of public locations, including parks, streets, plazas, markets, terminals, malls, commercial establishments, and government offices. Prohibited behaviors encompass exposing the upper torso, wearing underwear visibly in public, or donning see-through clothing that reveals intimate areas. Councilor Andales noted during a session on November 25 that the legislation was initiated following a directive from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) during an executive briefing held on July 7, 2025. The ordinance emphasizes rehabilitation and education alongside penalties, integrating seminars and counseling into its enforcement framework. The prescribed penalties are as follows: - **First Offense:** Verbal warning, mandatory orientation at the barangay hall, and a written reprimand. - **Second Offense:** Required attendance at a gender sensitivity and public decency seminar. - **Third Offense:** Imposition of a fine amounting to ₱1,000. - **Fourth and Subsequent Offenses:** Fine of ₱3,000 coupled with referral for behavioral counseling. Failure to comply with seminar attendance or counseling may lead to administrative and criminal charges, carrying a maximum fine of ₱5,000 or imprisonment for up to one year. Exceptions to the ordinance include private areas not visible to the public, cultural or religious performances, official sports events, work-related uniforms, medical emergencies, breastfeeding, and authorized venues like beaches and swimming pools. Enforcement responsibilities will be shared among the Cebu City Police Office, the Anti-Indecency Board, and deputized barangay personnel, with the City Legal Office handling dispute resolution and appeals. The new regulations will become effective 15 days after the ordinance's publication.

Senior Citizen Drowns at Pacuan River Amid Tropical Depression Verbena

A senior citizen lost his life after slipping and drowning at the Pacuan River spillway in Sitio Proper, Barangay Pacuan, La Libertad, Negros Oriental, on Monday evening. The incident occurred around 5 p.m. amid adverse weather caused by Tropical Depression Verbena. According to reports, the victim, believed to be in his early 60s and suspected to have been intoxicated, attempted to cross the flood-affected spillway. He slipped at the edge and was swept away by the strong current. Locals rushed to assist but were unable to rescue him. Barangay rescue teams continued the search the following morning in hopes of locating the missing man. His daughter, Jonalyn Binondo Canoy, recounted via a live social media broadcast that her father was last seen collecting small debris from trees near the spillway before being overtaken by the water. The search and recovery operation is ongoing as authorities work to confirm whether the fatality was directly linked to the effects of Tropical Depression Verbena. At the time of the incident, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) had issued a tropical cyclone wind signal no. 1 for Negros Oriental. Local officials continue to urge residents to exercise caution amid unpredictable weather and potential flooding in the region.