Day: October 28, 2025

Bicol: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) 5 has heightened its alert status and operational readiness in anticipation of a significant influx of passengers for Undas 2025. PCG-5 Commander, Commodore Ivan Roldan, emphasized the increased Vessel Safety Enforcement Inspections (VSEI) to ensure adherence to safety standards set by the Maritime Industry Authority. According to Philippines News Agency, Roldan outlined the importance of VSEI in verifying vessel safety and readiness before sailing. An estimated 120 to 150 vessels, including roll-on/roll-off ferries and fast crafts, are preparing to transport passengers across various Bicol routes during Undas. The PCG will enhance security and safety

Agusan del norte: A fourth-class municipality in Agusan del Norte continues to thrive under the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). For the past 11 years, the town of Santiago has been a partner of KALAHI-CIDSS and is now reaping the program’s benefits. According to Philippines News Agency, ‘With a total of 42 sub-projects amounting to PHP60.152 million implemented, Santiago town is now capable of sustaining government projects to aid the daily struggles of the townsfolk,’ KALAHI-CIDSS National Program Management Office Director Bernadette Mapue-Joaquin said in

Pasay city: Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman emphasized the significance of gender-responsive budgeting in fostering inclusive and sustainable development. She spoke during the Philippine Conference on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) at the Philippine International Convention Center, where she highlighted the DBM’s commitment to ensuring national budgets address the needs of women and girls. According to Philippines News Agency, Pangandaman stressed the importance of inclusive and collaborative approaches to advancing the WPS agenda. She noted that addressing issues surrounding WPS requires learning from diverse experiences to create a comprehensive strategy. The DBM aims to prioritize WPS

Manila: The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) announced that all of its units will be placed under heightened alert, known as Code Blue, from October 28 to 29, and full alert, or Code Red, from October 30 to November 2. This is part of the observance for this year’s All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, commonly known as Undas. According to Philippines News Agency, Senior Superintendent Bonifacio Carta, the director of BFP Public Information Service, stated that approximately 27,500 firefighters will be deployed to ensure immediate emergency response and bolster fire prevention efforts at cemeteries, transport terminals, and other

Manila: At least 23 former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and their dependents have completed a 10-day livelihood skills training on bread and pastry production as part of the government’s support for their reintegration into civilian life. The training aimed to equip participants with practical baking and entrepreneurial skills to help them build sustainable livelihood ventures after abandoning the NPA, the Philippine Army 19th Infantry Battalion (IB) said on Tuesday. According to Philippines News Agency, the course combined theoretical and hands-on sessions on bread, pastry, and cake preparation, along with lessons on food safety, sanitation, and basic business management. The