General

Bacolod city: The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) is conducting further studies for the mass production of entomo-pathogenic fungi to counter the red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI) infestation. This was among the actions presented by the SRA during the training-workshop on RSSI management and open data kit application at the Capitol Social Hall here on Monday. According to Philippines News Agency, SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona highlighted a significant breakthrough in the use of fungi to combat RSSI. A specific fungus discovered in Capiz has shown promising results in attacking adult RSSI. This naturally occurring fungus, rather than a chemical solution,

Manila: Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta has stepped down from her post, Malaca±ang said Monday. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed that Dimalanta submitted her ‘irrevocable resignation’ to the President. According to Philippines News Agency, Castro conveyed the news in a text message, stating, “[This is confirmed], irrevocable resignation of chair Mona [Dimalanta].” No further details were provided regarding the resignation or the reasons behind Dimalanta’s decision to leave her position.

Antique: The Antique provincial board approved on first reading Supplemental Annual Investment Program (SAIP) No. 3 amounting to PHP1.8 billion for the provincial electric power subsidy (PEPS) during its first regular session on Monday. According to Philippines News Agency, the SAIP No. 3 was approved unanimously by the provincial board to support the request of Governor Paolo Everardo Javier. Board Member Karmila Rose Dimamay, chair of the Committee on Finance and Appropriations, stated in an interview that this substantial amount is earmarked to provide a PHP500 monthly subsidy to 169,786 registered residential electricity consumers over the next 17 months. Dimamay

Pasay city: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is expediting discussions to finalize the Code of Conduct (COC) for the South China Sea by 2026, as stated by Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro on Monday. The COC aims to establish a framework for managing tensions in the contested waters of the South China Sea. According to Philippines News Agency, Lazaro revealed that several rounds of negotiations are planned in the upcoming months to build upon the progress made during talks held in Manila last April. She emphasized the goal of having the ASEAN-China Code of Conduct ready by

Manila: A power maintenance is scheduled at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 from 10 p.m. on Tuesday to 2 a.m. on Wednesday. According to Philippines News Agency, the operator New NAIA Infra, Corp. (NNIC) stated in an advisory that the maintenance is part of ongoing efforts to keep NAIA safe, reliable, and operating at its best. Meralco Energy, Inc.’s maintenance work will necessitate a temporary power interruption during this period. Although backup generators are planned to support critical systems, brief disruptions are expected in elevators, escalators, baggage handling systems, air conditioning, lighting, and electrical outlets. The San