Day: December 12, 2024

LEGAZPI CITY: The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) has called on local government leaders in the Bicol region to establish local peace panels within their jurisdictions as a means to encourage the surrender of insurgents. According to Philippines News Agency, Christopher Azucena, the OPAPRU-South Luzon Bicol coordinator, emphasized the importance of these panels during the 2024 Media Orientation at Hotel Sentro. Azucena explained that the peace panels would facilitate dialogue between the government and rebel groups, serving as a crucial link to encourage reconciliation. The panels are to be composed of local chief executives,

MANILA: The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) has announced a significant investment of PHP1.5 billion aimed at fertilizing approximately 55,000 coconut palms in 2025 as part of the Coconut Fertilization Project. The initiative seeks to enhance yield and income for coconut farmers through the application of agricultural-grade salt fertilizer and organic compost. According to Philippines News Agency, PCA Administrator Dr. Dexter Buted outlined the project’s components during the second Salt Congress, emphasizing the rehabilitation of low-bearing mature palms. The project will use agricultural grade salt fertilizer (AGSF) and compost produced from biodegradable waste to improve soil conditions. Incentives will also be

LEGAZPI CITY: At least 88 local government units (LGUs) in the Bicol Region were honored with the prestigious Gawad KALASAG award for their outstanding efforts in disaster risk reduction management (DRRM) and humanitarian assistance. The award ceremony, held at the Oriental Hotel, highlighted the proactive measures taken by these LGUs to enhance community resilience against disasters. According to Philippines News Agency, Claudio Yucot, the regional director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Bicol, emphasized the significance of the Gawad KALASAG as both a symbol of resilience and a platform showcasing the substantial contributions made by stakeholders in disaster

MANILA: The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has unveiled a comprehensive roadmap aimed at enhancing the Philippines’ image and influence on the global stage. The Philippine Soft Power Roadmap, introduced on December 11, marks the culmination of a 14-month initiative led by the DFA Office of Public Diplomacy. According to Philippines News Agency, the roadmap is a result of extensive research and consultation workshops involving government and non-government stakeholders. It is designed to guide the country’s 98 foreign service posts worldwide in their efforts to project Philippine soft power. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo emphasized the potential of the Filipino

Taguig City: The House of Representatives Quad Committee has ordered the arrest of Col. Hector Grijaldo after he failed to attend its hearings for the fourth time, citing him in contempt. The committee’s decision came after Grijaldo claimed he was recovering from shoulder surgery, a justification that lawmakers found unconvincing. According to Philippines News Agency, Rep. Pammy Zamora initiated the motion to cite Grijaldo in contempt, arguing that the police official’s repeated absences were inexcusable. The motion was quickly seconded and approved by quadcom lead chair Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, who announced that Grijaldo would be detained within the House