Day: January 2, 2025

CALABARZON: The Police Regional Office (PRO) 4-A has successfully confiscated over 43,000 illegal firecrackers, amounting to more than PHP2 million, during a crackdown spanning from December 18, 2024, to January 1, 2025. The operation is part of a broader initiative to enforce firecracker regulations, which has led to a notable decrease in firecracker-related injuries in the region. According to Philippines News Agency, the PRO 4-A Director, Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas, reported that the strict enforcement measures have contributed to a significant reduction in injuries, with cases dropping to 160 during the period from December 1, 2024, to January 1,

MANILA: Local shares kicked off the new year with gains, while the Philippine peso showed minimal movement against the US dollar on the first trading day of 2025. The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) increased by 0.33 percent, closing at 6,550.39, and the All Shares index rose by 0.18 percent to settle at 3,755.10. According to Philippines News Agency, the positive start in the stock market comes as investors prepare for a full year ahead. Luis Limlingan, head of sales managing director at Regina Capital Development Corp., noted the optimistic opening, highlighting the market’s focus on upcoming economic data releases.

BACOLOD CITY: In response to the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon, the provincial government of Negros Occidental has implemented a network of 20 community kitchens that are delivering essential meals to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and support personnel. The initiative has been pivotal since the volcano’s eruption last month, which has significantly affected local communities. According to Philippines News Agency, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson highlighted the efforts during his New Year address to Capitol employees, emphasizing the substantial impact of the community kitchens. “Through our 20 community kitchens, we provided for more than 10,000 IDPs, camp managers, volunteers, peacekeepers, and social

MANILA: The social and advocacy branch of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has called on the faithful to unite in fostering hope within the church as the 2025 Jubilee Year approaches. This initiative aims to strengthen faith, spread hope, and uphold commitments to service, compassion, and justice. According to Philippines News Agency, Caritas Philippines President Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo emphasized the active nature of hope, urging believers to act with boldness and fidelity. He highlighted the importance of supporting marginalized and vulnerable communities, aligning with the church’s mission of service. Bagaforo also underlined the church’s duty to

BICOL: The Department of Health in Bicol (DOH-5) has reported a total of 36 fireworks-related injuries across the region, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with holiday celebrations. The injuries, recorded between December 21 and December 31, 2024, occurred in the provinces of Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Albay, and Naga City. According to Philippines News Agency, healthcare facilities throughout Bicol treated the injured individuals, including eight at the Bicol Medical Center and 12 at the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center. Additionally, eight patients were treated at the Camarines Norte Provincial Hospital, one at the Bicol Region General Hospital and Geriatric