Day: July 23, 2025

Pasay: Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers (AFAD) members and over 40 exhibitors are participating in the 31st AFAD Defense and Sporting Arms Show, which commenced Wednesday at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. The five-day event aims to deliver an enhanced experience, backed by legislative support for the firearms industry’s growth in both business and sporting sectors. According to Philippines News Agency, AFAD spokesperson Alaric “Aric” Topacio highlighted the exhibition’s array of world-class imported and locally-made firearms and equipment, catering to sports shooters and responsible gun owners. He emphasized the positive developments in the industry’s pursuit of recognition,

Manila: The Pag-IBIG Fund has announced its readiness to assist members affected by Tropical Storm Crising through its Calamity Loan program and Housing Loan Insurance Claim for damaged homes. This initiative is in compliance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to provide immediate assistance to those in disaster-stricken areas. According to Philippines News Agency, members residing in areas declared under a state of calamity can apply for a Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan. The necessary requirements for the loan include a completed Calamity Loan Application Form, a valid ID, proof of income or employer-certified income, and a Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card Plus. Eligible

Cebu: The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (Cebu-BRT) is set to begin its pilot operations in September, as announced by Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon. At least three stations will be operational, providing convenience and ease of mobility to commuters. According to Philippines News Agency, Dizon confirmed that the project is progressing in alignment with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to expedite the pilot operations and the completion of additional stations. The initial stations, including Fuente, Cebu Normal University, and Cebu South Bus Terminal Station, are expected to serve at least 70,000 commuters once operational. Efforts to accelerate the project’s completion

Surigao del sur: Surigao del Sur’s Provincial Health Office (PHO) reported the first mpox case in the province, marking the third confirmed infection in the Caraga region. According to Philippines News Agency, the PHO released a July 22 advisory to the media on Wednesday, stating that the patient sought medical consultation after experiencing symptoms such as rashes, fever, fatigue, and sore throat. The patient was promptly tested, isolated, and found to have a history of travel to regions with confirmed mpox cases. The PHO, in collaboration with the Department of Health in the Caraga Region, coordinated with the relevant local

Bulacan: The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) has formally endorsed a declaration of a state of calamity for the towns of Calumpit, Guiguinto, Balagtas, Bocaue, and Meycauayan City. This endorsement is pending ratification by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board). According to Philippines News Agency, Retired Col. Manuel Lukban, PDRRMC chief, stated that the endorsement is due to the extensive damage caused by Severe Tropical Storm Crising, the current southwest monsoon (“habagat”), and Tropical Storm Dante in the affected areas. Lukban’s report indicates that agricultural damage has reached PHP56 million, with the livestock sector suffering losses of PHP436,000.