Day: January 1, 2025

BAGUIO CITY: The Department of Health (DOH) in the Cordillera region has reported 25 cases of firecracker-related injuries as of January 1, with the majority involving minors who used improvised devices known as ‘boga’ to generate loud sounds. This information comes as authorities continue to address the safety concerns associated with the festive season. According to Philippines News Agency, Genee Austria, head of the DOH-Cordillera Communications Management Unit, stated that 12 of the injuries were caused by ‘boga,’ as recorded early on January 1. Other types of fireworks involved in the injuries included kwitis with six cases, luces with two,

MANILA: The Philippines ushered in 2025 with minimal disturbances, as the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported a “generally and relatively peaceful” transition into the New Year, with no major untoward incidents recorded. Despite a few cases of illegal activities and injuries related to fireworks, the celebrations were largely uneventful according to authorities. According to Philippines News Agency, the PNP spokesperson and information chief, Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, shared that by 6 a.m. on January 1, there were no significant untoward incidents reported. However, authorities recorded 1,360 cases of illegal possession, use, and sale of firecrackers. The police seized 593,094 illegal

MANILA: The Philippines is gearing up for a historic push towards the 2026 Winter Olympics by sending a team of 20 athletes to the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China, scheduled from February 7 to 14. This strategic move comes on the heels of the country’s remarkable success in the Summer Olympics, where it clinched three consecutive gold medals in Paris. According to Philippines News Agency, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino expressed the nation’s ambition to replicate its Summer Olympics achievements in the Winter Olympics. “We’ve already accomplished the dream in the Summer Olympics – three

Lingayen: In a tragic incident on New Year’s Eve, two individuals drowned and two others were rescued from a near-drowning situation at Lingayen beach, Pangasinan. The local disaster response teams were quick to act, but not all lives could be saved. According to Philippines News Agency, the Pangasinan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), along with the Lingayen Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, responded swiftly after the victims’ companions raised the alarm. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when strong waves and currents pulled the swimmers into deeper waters. Lt. Trisha Mae Guzman, information officer for

MANILA: The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. announced on Wednesday a commitment to sustain and advance the government’s peace agenda in 2025, aiming to achieve a just and lasting peace across the Philippines. According to Philippines News Agency, Galvez highlighted that 2024 marked significant achievements for the peace body and the Comprehensive Philippine Peace Process. Key accomplishments included promoting the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda, improving the lives of former rebels, and showcasing peace process gains to the international community. These efforts reflect a collective commitment to ensure peace