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Benitez directs DPWH: Fund only vetted flood projects as Bacolod holds culmination summitBACOLOD CITY — Deputy Speaker a...
09/06/2026

Benitez directs DPWH: Fund only vetted flood projects as Bacolod holds culmination summit

BACOLOD CITY — Deputy Speaker and Bacolod City Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez is leading the 3rd and Culminating Bacolod Flood Mitigation Summit, pushing for a permanent resolution to the city’s chronic flooding while introducing strict measures to ensure public funds deliver real, lasting results.

During the sessions, Rep. Benitez issued clear instructions to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH): funding for flood control infrastructure will only be released for projects that have been thoroughly vetted, discussed, and mutually agreed upon during the summit’s multi-sectoral proceedings. This marks a shift away from temporary “band-aid solutions” toward data-driven, long-term infrastructure planning.

“Flooding is becoming more frequent and intense worldwide, but this should never be an excuse for inaction or complacency. We must not just learn to live with it—we must act decisively to reduce its impact on our people,” Benitez emphasized in his opening remarks.

He explicitly directed the DPWH and all partner agencies to align their projects strictly with the unified flood mitigation roadmap. The plan combines “grey” infrastructure solutions—such as improved drainage systems, pumping stations, and canals—with “green” environmental interventions to protect natural waterways and preserve the city’s ecology.

“This is not just about concrete structures. It is about protecting lives, homes, livelihoods, businesses, and the future of Bacolod. I am directing the DPWH and all stakeholders to strictly follow this consensus plan to ensure every peso spent serves its intended purpose,” the lawmaker stressed.

Key Summit Highlights

• Targeted Funding Rule: All flood control allocations must strictly follow recommendations from the summit’s technical working groups, ensuring projects are based on verified needs and scientific evidence.

• Accountability Pact: Local leaders, national agencies, and engineering stakeholders signed a symbolic commitment to uphold transparency and deliver on agreed interventions.

• Comprehensive Masterplan: The initiative integrates community inputs, technical data, and government resources to build a future-ready Drainage Masterplan for Bacolod.

• Digital Platform Launched: A centralized online repository was introduced to serve as a permanent hub for flood data, studies, project updates, and best practices—enabling real-time coordination and public accountability.

Three-Phase Development

The culmination summit caps a year-long collaborative process:

• Phase 1 (August 2025): Pre-Flood Summit gathered barangay officials to document issues including unregulated quarrying and river obstructions.

• Phase 2 (December 2025): 2nd Summit at Sugarland Hotel developed a unified technical framework for flood control.

• Phase 3 (June 2026): Current sessions verify project designs against field inspection results to ensure feasibility and maximum impact.

The roadmap adopts a whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach, refined through three summits and extensive consultations to identify root causes of flooding. While the planning phase concludes here, Benitez emphasized this is only the beginning of implementation.

“This roadmap is not a final destination—it is part of an ongoing journey toward a safer, smarter, and more flood-resilient Bacolod,” he said.

Benitez expressed his vision for the city to become a national and global benchmark for flood resilience. “If we remain united, committed, and relentless in pursuing solutions, there is no reason why Bacolod cannot become a model—not only in the Philippines, but anywhere in the world,” he added.

San Antonio Spurs wins!
09/06/2026

San Antonio Spurs wins!

THE 7.8 MAGNITUDE MINDANAO EARTHQUAKE Updated as of 9am | June 9, 2026 FATALITIES : 35 LANDSLIDE VICTIMS: 13INJURIES : 3...
09/06/2026

THE 7.8 MAGNITUDE MINDANAO EARTHQUAKE

Updated as of 9am | June 9, 2026

FATALITIES : 35
LANDSLIDE VICTIMS: 13
INJURIES : 331
DISPLACED INDIVIDUALS: 147,000

Provincial Government urges Bacolod to clear North Capitol Road of vendorsBACOLOD CITY — The Provincial Legal Office of ...
09/06/2026

Provincial Government urges Bacolod to clear North Capitol Road of vendors

BACOLOD CITY — The Provincial Legal Office of Negros Occidental has formally called on the Bacolod City government to address the operations of street vendors along North Capitol Road, citing traffic obstructions, safety risks, sanitation problems, and security concerns.

In a letter dated June 4, 2026, Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Alberto P. Nellas Jr. addressed City Legal Officer Atty. Karol Joseph P. Chiu, outlining multiple issues brought about by the vendors’ continued presence.

According to the correspondence, the vendors have become a public nuisance, blocking lanes and causing traffic congestion while endangering both motorists and themselves. They have also taken over sidewalks, severely limiting safe passage for pedestrians.

The letter further noted that their activities have led to poor waste management and litter accumulation, degrading the surroundings and adding to the province’s maintenance costs. There have also been reports of increased vandalism and damage to provincial property, particularly the restrooms at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon.

Security is another major concern, as the vendors operate near the Provincial Treasurer’s Office — an office that regularly handles public funds and sensitive financial transactions.

“Public streets and sidewalks are property devoted to public use and are not for private commercial activity. Their primary purpose is to serve as thoroughfares for vehicles and pedestrians, and any use should not compromise public access, safety, or general welfare,” the letter emphasized.

The document, received by the Bacolod City Legal Office on June 5, formally requests the city government to take action to abate the presence of the vendors along the stretch of North Capitol Road.

08/06/2026

How was the first day of school?

Aerial shot showing collapsed and damaged buildings in General Santos City following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that s...
08/06/2026

Aerial shot showing collapsed and damaged buildings in General Santos City following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck earlier this morning, June 8.



[Photos courtesy of EastMinCom via RMN GenSan]

TWO ATENEO BASKETBALL STUDENT-ATHLETES DIE IN DROWNING INCIDENT IN AURORAQUEZON CITY — Ateneo de Manila University has c...
08/06/2026

TWO ATENEO BASKETBALL STUDENT-ATHLETES DIE IN DROWNING INCIDENT IN AURORA

QUEZON CITY — Ateneo de Manila University has confirmed the tragic passing of two members of its Men’s Basketball Team following a drowning accident during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, on the afternoon of June 8, 2026.

In an official statement released on the same day, the university identified the victims as Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili.

“It is with profound sadness that Ateneo de Manila University confirms the passing of two student-athletes of the Ateneo Men's Basketball Team, Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili, following a drowning incident that occurred during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, on the afternoon of June 8, 2026,” the statement read.

The entire Ateneo community expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the two young athletes. The university extended its deepest sympathies to their families, friends, teammates, coaches, and all those who loved them.

“The entire Ateneo community mourns the loss of Rene and Divine. The University extends its heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, teammates, coaches, and loved ones. We ask the community to keep them in their prayers during this most difficult time,” it added.

Ateneo also assured that it is providing necessary assistance and counseling support to the victims’ families, as well as to their fellow players and other members of the university community affected by the tragedy.

Respectfully requesting understanding during this period of grief, the university appealed for privacy and space for all those mourning.

“We respectfully ask for privacy and space for all those grieving as they come to terms with this profound loss. As a community, we mourn with the families and loved ones of Rene and Divine and entrust them to God's loving mercy. We ask for continued prayers for all who are affected by this tragedy,” the statement said.

Details regarding the wake and funeral services will be announced once arrangements have been finalized in coordination with the families.

Negros Occidental details process for safe disposal of hospital hazardous wasteBACOLOD CITY — The Provincial Government ...
08/06/2026

Negros Occidental details process for safe disposal of hospital hazardous waste

BACOLOD CITY — The Provincial Government of Negros Occidental has laid out its strict standard procedures for handling and disposing hazardous and infectious waste generated by its own hospitals, ensuring full compliance with environmental regulations.

Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II explained the step-by-step process in a statement, emphasizing safety and proper management from treatment to final disposal.

“First, we disinfect the target materials with chlorine granules — or calcium hypochloride — diluted in water at 1000 ppm concentration. These are soaked and retained for two full days to ensure proper decontamination,” Diaz said.

After treatment, the waste is securely packed into sealed drums, bags, or sacks, and prepared for transport. All containers are checked and sealed tightly before being loaded onto vehicles.

“Third, we transport the materials using closed vans duly accredited by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) specifically for carrying hazardous waste,” he added.

The waste is then delivered to Integrated Waste Management, Inc. in Trece Martires, Cavite, where it undergoes further processing and autoclaving before final disposal in accordance with Philippine environmental laws. The entire operation is carried out by the province’s authorized contractor, Urban Hazmat Transport.

Diaz also reported on a recent clean-up operation conducted last June 6 and 7, 2026, upon the directive of Governor B**g Lacson. The activity covered three compartment vaults and one hazardous waste facility at the Don Salvador Benedicto Memorial District Hospital (DSBMDH) in La Carlota City.

The facility had accumulated large volumes of used sharps, tubings, needles, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other infectious materials. Under the supervision of Pollution Control Officer Rinalyn Padilla and Liz Azuelo, a total of 25.444 metric tons of hazardous waste were collected and hauled away.

Footage of the inspection and clearing operation was also documented by provincial monitors.

The province noted that such measures are part of its commitment to public health and environmental protection under the governance agenda.

15 dead, over 200 injured as magnitude 7.8 quake hits Mindanao; tsunami alerts raisedGENERAL SANTOS CITY — A powerful ma...
08/06/2026

15 dead, over 200 injured as magnitude 7.8 quake hits Mindanao; tsunami alerts raised

GENERAL SANTOS CITY — A powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck the southern coast of the Philippines early Monday morning, June 8, 2026, leaving at least 15 people dead, more than 200 others injured, and causing widespread damage across Mindanao.

The tremor’s epicenter was located offshore near General Santos City, according to initial reports. It triggered immediate assessments of destruction, with authorities confirming extensive structural damage in affected areas. Among the facilities hit was a building at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University, alongside collapsed commercial structures and damaged schools. Large portions of the region also experienced widespread power outages following the quake.

Tsunami risks and aftershocks
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center promptly issued tsunami advisories. Officials recorded waves measuring between 3 to 4.6 feet along coastlines in Sarangani and Kiamba, prompting residents in low-lying areas to move to higher ground as a precaution.

Seismologists have also logged more than 138 aftershocks since the main quake, with magnitudes ranging from 1.3 up to 6.7, keeping communities on high alert.

Classes suspended, relief on standby
The earthquake struck on the very first day of the school year, leading authorities to declare widespread suspension of classes and work throughout the entire Davao Region and Soccsksargen to ensure safety.

In response, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has placed its teams on Red Alert status. Over 1.1 million family food packs have been pre-positioned in warehouses across Mindanao, ready for immediate distribution to displaced families and affected communities as rescue and relief operations continue.

PRO NIR commends outstanding cops for arrest of robbers, most wanted personsBACOLOD CITY — The Police Regional Office Ne...
08/06/2026

PRO NIR commends outstanding cops for arrest of robbers, most wanted persons

BACOLOD CITY — The Police Regional Office Negros Island Region (PRO NIR) has recognized deserving police personnel for their exemplary performance and successful law enforcement operations during an awarding ceremony held on June 8, 2026, at the PRO NIR Administration Building inside Camp Alfredo M. Montelibano Sr. in Barangay Estefania here.

The event was presided over by PBGEN ROMANO V. CARDIÑO, Acting Regional Director of PRO NIR, and was attended by the command group, regional and personal staff, representatives from national support units, awardees, and other police personnel.

The activity honored officers and members who showed courage, professionalism, and operational excellence in carrying out missions aligned with the SAFE NIR Program—an initiative focused on proactive crime prevention, fast response, and intelligence-driven policing.

Awardees and their achievements

Receiving the Medalya ng Kagalingan were PLTCOL EDISON N. GARCIA and PSSg Efrain Jay C. Panizales of the Silay City City Police Station (NOcPPO). They were cited for leading a manhunt operation on May 28, 2026, at Purok Paho, Barangay Rizal, Silay City, which led to the arrest of the region’s top most wanted person, facing charges of six counts of Frustrated Murder and two counts of Attempted Murder.

Meanwhile, the Medalya ng Papuri was conferred upon PMAJ RONDYL M. TAPANG, PCMS Noli A. Fregil, and PSSg Leo S. Agenga of Police Station 1, Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO). The team was recognized for their efficiency in conducting a hot pursuit operation on May 28, 2026, along GV Street, Barangay 19, Bacolod City, resulting in the arrest of two suspects for Robbery with Violence and Intimidation of Persons under Article 294 of the Revised Penal Code.

Another set of Medalya ng Kagalingan awards went to PCpl Ruben E. Aldivera and Pat Lawrence N. Esmeralda of the BCPO Criminal Investigation Unit. They were commended for responding to a shooting incident on June 3, 2026, along Magsaysay Avenue in Barangay Singcang Airport. The operation led to the arrest of suspects, the confiscation of a firearm, and the seizure of approximately 20 grams of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride valued at ₱136,000, along with charges for violations of Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Fi****ms and Ammunition Regulation Act), RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act), and Attempted Murder.

In a statement, PRO NIR emphasized that the recognition reflects the continuing success of the SAFE NIR Program, which aims to strengthen public safety across the region. The office reiterated its commitment to delivering tangible results, bringing offenders to justice, and ensuring a secure environment for the public.

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