iFM Bacolod 943

11/09/2025

20 DPWH personnel face raps over flood control mess

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon on Thursday filed corruption cases against 20 personnel of the Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office (DEO) and four private contractors before the Office of the Ombudsman.

These include cases for violation of Republic Act 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act); Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code (Malversation of Public Funds), in relation to Articles 171 of the Revised Penal Code; Republic Act 9184; and other related laws.

Those charged before the Ombudsman are former Bulacan 1st DEO District engineer Henry Alcantara; former assistant district engineer Brice Ericson Hernandez; Construction section's Jaypee Mendoza and John Michael Ramos; Planning and Design section chief Ernesto Galang; Maintenance section's Lorenzo Pagtalunan and Jaime Hernandez; Quality Assurance section chief Norberto Santos; Administrative section chief Floralyn Simbulan; Finance section's Juanito Mendoza; Budget Unit head Roberto Roque; Procurement Unit head Benedict Matawaran; cashier Christina Mae Pineda; project engineers Paul Jayson Duya, Merg Jaron Laus, Lemuel Ephraim Roque, Arjay Domasig, John Carlo Rivera, John Benex Francisco; and engineer Jolo Mari Tayao.

The contractors who were charged with related violations of the law are Sally Santos of SYMS Construction Trading; Mark Allan Arevalo of Wawao Builders; Ma. Roma Angeline Rimando with beneficial owner Cezarah Rowena Discaya of St. Timothy Construction Corporation; and Robert Imperio of IM Construction Corporation.

The filing of cases is in response to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to hold accountable those involved in anomalies in flood control projects in the province of Bulacan.

"This is what our President said. Over and over again, starting from his SONA, to his numerous inspections on the ground. Everyone who needs to be held accountable should be held accountable. Even if they are his acquaintances, his friends, his allies, everyone should be held accountable. This is just the beginning while the Independent Commission that our President is yet to establish does not exist," Dizon said in a statement.

"We will all get the justice that we all deserve as Filipinos. The President has assured us of that, and this is proof of that. Within 10 days, we will not enter the DPWH, the President said, "hurry up". This is it, we are expediting it. And this is just the first of many more cases to come,” the DPWH chief added.

He also encouraged the public to report possible anomalous projects or DPWH officials so that they can be held accountable.

Office uniform use suspended

Dizon, meanwhile, suspended the wearing of office uniforms for by DPWH personnel amid the ongoing investigation on flood control projects.

“All officials of the DPWH are nevertheless expected to report for duty in appropriate and presentable attire at all times,” Dizon said in a memorandum dated Sept. 9 and made public Thursday.

Dizon said the move seeks to protect DPWH personnel from bullying and harassment amid the ongoing investigation into the multi-billion pesos worth of anomalous flood control projects, the agency said in a Facebook post. (PNA)

11/09/2025

Unified 911 emergency hotline promises faster response nationwide

The Philippine government launched Thursday the unified 911 emergency hotline that would provide faster and more coordinated responses to emergencies nationwide.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the hotline, which replaces multiple local emergency numbers, would serve as the central point of contact for police, fire, medical, and disaster response services.

“We had 35 LGUs [local government units] with their own numbers, we had the PNP (Philippine National Police), we had the BFP (Bureau of Fire Protection). We have the other 200 numbers then we have 40,000 barangays, where the constituents would call first the barangay captain to call for help before they would call the BFP or the PNP or any other response center. So with the Philippines being a very complicated country, it even became more complicated with the emergency response,” Remulla said during the launch at the PLDT office in Sampaloc.

“Today, we have one number and that is 911,” he added.

The 911 hotline is toll-free for all landline and mobile calls, making it accessible to both urban and rural communities.

Remulla said the initial phase would soon be expanded, targeting getting on board about 240 operators in 120 days.

He warned bogus and prank callers that their numbers would be blocked, making it difficult for them to ask for help when an emergency arises.

“Sa mga mag-bo-bogus call dito sa 911, baka pagsisihan niyo 'yan sa dulo. Dahil kung kayo may tunay na emergency, baka hindi na kayo puntahan. Hindi na tatanggapin ang tawag ninyo. So, huwag niyo 'yun subukan kasi kung kamag-anak mo magka problema, pamilya mo may problema, hindi ka na papansin ng 911 system (To those who make bogus calls to 911, you might regret it in the end. Because if you have a real emergency, they might not come to you. Your call will not be answered. So, don't try that because if your relative has a problem, your family has a problem, the 911 system will ignore you),” Remulla said.

The unified 911 is a joint initiative of the DILG, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), telecoms firm PLDT Inc. (PLDT), and NGA 911 Philippines, the local arm of US-based NGA 911 LLC.

It introduces next-generation emergency communications technology already proven in the United States and Europe.

The system comes with advanced features designed to strengthen public safety, including GPS-based location tracking that allows faster and more precise dispatch of emergency teams.

It also uses internet protocol to transmit voice, text, and video between callers and responders, providing real-time data that enhances situational awareness.

Don Ferguson, co-founder and CEO of NGA 911 LLC, said the system “will help the DILG save more lives and empower more communities now that all systems have been unified into one nationwide system".

PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the unified hotline ensures immediate help to the public wherever they are in the country.

He said a single hotline number would eliminate confusion to the public and saves time.

“Alam mo 'yung bureau natin, sinabi na kanina, there are a lot of responders. Sa PNP pa lang, there are how many? 2,000 municipal police stations and other units, more than 2,000. Of course, that is for the PNP. Kung iba-iba 'yung platform, nagka-loko-loko na 'yan. So ito unified, isa lang ang platform (You know our bureau, I said earlier, there are a lot of responders. In the PNP alone, how many are there? 2,000 municipal police stations and other units, more than 2,000. Of course, that is for the PNP. If there are a variety of platforms, it would be a mess. So it's unified, there's only one platform),” he said. (PNA)

11/09/2025

ILOG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GETS NEW CLASSROOM BUILDING

Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson led the inauguration of a newly constructed two-storey, four-classroom school building at Ilog Elementary School in the Municipality of Ilog, September 9.

The new facility is funded by the provincial government through DepEd Negros Occidental Division, which aims to improve the learning environment and support the educational needs of Negrense students.

The classrooms are designed to accommodate more learners and help ease congestion in existing classrooms in the school making it conducive for learning and safer for the students.

Joining the governor during the inauguration were Ilog Mayor John Paul Alvarez, Schools Division Superintendent of Negros Occidental Dr. Gladys Amylaine Sales, School Principal Dr. Joseph Villacampa, Public Schools District Supervisor of Ilog II Annabelle Alipo-on, and Provincial Engineer Ernie Mapa, along with local officials, teachers, parents, and students.

In his message, Lacson said that education is a vital investment in the future of Negros Occidental. He also expressed appreciation to DepEd, the teachers, and Ilog Municipal Government for their partnership in making the project possible.

The turnover of the classrooms is part of the provincial government’s program agenda to strengthen basic education infrastructures in the province fostering inclusive development. (PGNO)

11/09/2025

Proposed 2026 Supplemental Annual Investment Program of Negros Occidental at P2.1 Billion

The proposed Supplemental Annual Investment Program (AIP) of Negros Occidental for 2026 has reached P2,118,500,000.

This was presented by provincial administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II during the first Provincial Development Council (PDC) meeting held after the May 2025 midterm elections in Talisay City on Thursday morning, September 11.

The biggest share of the proposed 2026 Supplemental AIP will go to the construction and upgrading of provincial road networks and other infrastructure projects.

After being approved earlier, the PDC will endorse this to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for appropriate action.

Meanwhile, the council also approved during the same meeting the 2025 Supplemental Annual Investment Program amounting to P437,660,000.

Also included in the presentation was the Proposed 2026 20% Provincial Development Fund Allocation worth P1,340,500,000, which covers P386,000,000 for loan amortization and P954,500,000 for Development Programs, Projects, and Activities (PPAs). This will also be endorsed to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, the Department of Budget and Management, and other relevant national agencies.

The PDC meeting was presided over by Governor Eugenio Lacson, who serves as its chairman, along with Vice Governor Jose Benito Alonso, members of the Provincial Board, municipal mayors of various local government units in the province, and representatives of government agencies.

At the same time, 13 newly elected mayors of Negros Occidental were formally recognized.

*DYHB photo

11/09/2025

Terra Madre Asia & Pacific 2025 officially launched in Manila

Terra Madre Asia & Pacific (TMAP) 2025, the world’s largest sustainable gastronomy event in Asia and the Pacific, was launched on September 9, 2025 at the North Forbes Pavilion, Makati City.

The event will be the first-ever regional edition outside of Turin, Italy where Slow Food created the biennial Terra Madre Salon del Gusto.

The global gathering will be held in Bacolod City on November 19 to 23, 2025. The five-day event is expected to welcome over 2,000 delegates from more than 20 countries, including, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, and Pacific Island nations. With immersive exhibits, tastings, conferences, and community meals, TMAP 2025 is expected to attract thousands of visitors from across the region.

This milestone event marks the designation of Bacolod City as the “Slow Food Hub in Asia” and “Center for Sustainable Gastronomy” and Negros Occidental as the “Organic Capital of the Philippines.” Modeled after the long-running Terra Madre Salone del Gusto in Italy, this regional edition will highlight the culinary traditions and food systems of Asia and the Pacific while connecting them to the wider global movement.

Guests at the launch event were welcomed with cocktails and appetizers featuring Ark of Taste ingredients, which is Slow Food’s international online catalogue of endangered heritage ingredients that are sustainably produced, unique in taste, and rooted in distinct eco-regions.

These locally sourced ingredients inspired the beverages and dishes prepared by the participating Terra Madre chefs namely, Chef Kevin Navoa and Thirdy Dolatre of Hapag, Chef David Amoros of El Born Manila, Chef Angelo Comsti of Offbeat Bistro, Chef Tina Legarda of Kumba & Bamba Bistro, Chef Pat Go of Your Local and Lanai, Chef Charles Montañez of Liyab and Mamacita, and Chef Dedet de la Fuente, Lechon Diva of Pepita’s Kitchen along with mixologists Arkadius Rybak of Toma Toma, Kalel Demetrio of Agimat at Ugat Foraging Bar & Kitchen, Alab Distillery and Lanai and Ken Alonso of Proudly Promdi. These chefs and mixologists highlight the creativity and diversity of the Philippine food and beverage landscape.

The program opened with an introduction about TMAP 2025, followed by a welcome address from Ramon “Chin Chin” Uy Jr., Slow Food councilor for Southeast Asia. A teaser video provided guests with a glimpse of what to expect in Bacolod this November.

Key speeches underscored the importance of Terra Madre to the Philippines and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Bacolod City Rep. Alfredo Abelardo “Albee Benitez” shared Bacolod’s vision as the Slow Food Hub of Asia, while Paolo di Croce, director general of Slow Food International, emphasized the global impact of Terra Madre in advancing biodiversity and food sovereignty.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco highlighted the partnership between food sustainability and tourism, while Senator Loren Legarda reiterated her long-standing commitment to environmental advocacy.

The evening was followed by a symbolic signing of inter-agency support led by key government officials along with partners, participants and sponsors.

The event continued with a sit-down dinner curated by Amado Fores (Margarita Signature Catering) showcasing sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez spoke about his support for Slow Food, championing local producers and advancing this initiative particularly the link between gastronomy and sustainable development.

To close the program, Reena Gamboa, executive director of Slow Food Philippines, led a celebratory toast to the first-ever TMAP 2025.

Following the successful launch in Manila, the spotlight now shifts to Bacolod City, which will host the historic first regional edition of TMAP.

The event will gather farmers, fisherfolk, food communities, chefs, cooks, policymakers, and advocates from across Asia and the Pacific to exchange knowledge, celebrate food diversity, and push forward the global call for a more sustainable food future.

With its strong culinary traditions and deep agricultural roots, Bacolod City stands as the ideal host city for this landmark gathering, embodying Terra Madre’s core values of preserving local biodiversity, strengthening small-scale producers, and advocating for good, clean, and fair food for all. (PR)

11/09/2025

LIVE NA SA YOUTUBE! RMN Network News | 5:30 PM | September 11, 2025

Panoorin ang buong newscast LIVE:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EGDm7BPtRs

Manatiling updated sa mga maiinit at napapanahong balita kasama ang ating mga , sina Elmar Acol at Jenny Pahilanga.

I-like, i-share, at mag-subscribe para sa tuloy-tuloy na balita at serbisyo publiko.

| SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 | 5:30PM🔴 MANATILING MAPANURI SA PINAKAMAINIT NA BALITAKasama ang ating mga , sina Elmar Acol at Jenny Pahilan...

11/09/2025

NA-DISMISS NGA PULIS, NAKUHAAN SANG P306K NGA BALOR SANG GINAPATIHAN SHABU SA CIUDAD SANG SAGAY

Nakuhaan sang P306,000 nga balor sang ginapatihan shabu ang isa ka dismissed nga katapu sang Philippine National Police sa buy-bust operation nga ginpatigayon sa Purok Doldol, Barangay Poblacion 2, ciudad sang Sagay, Negros Occidental, Miyerkules, Septiembre 10.

Ginkilala ang suspek sa kay alyas Tata, 30, residente sang Barangay Old Sagay.

Na-dismiss ang suspek sa pagka-pulis sadtong Oktubre 31, 2023.

Na-recover kay alyas Tata ang pito ka plastic sachets nga nagaunod sang ginapatihan shabu lakip na ang buy-bust item.

Nagabug-at ang iligal nga droga sang 45 grams.

Magluwas sa droga, na-recover man sa suspek ang isa ka caliber 45 nga armas luthang kag lima ka rounds sang live ammunition.

Sa karon yara na sa kustodiya sang Sagay City Police Station ang suspek para sa nagakaigo nga disposisyon.

*Sagay City PNP photo

11/09/2025

PESO-DOLLAR EXCHANGE RATE - September 11, 2025

P57.191 = $1

Source: Bankers Association of the Philippines

11/09/2025

P3.4 MILLION NGA BALOR SANG GINAPATIHAN SHABU NAKUHA SA ISA KA PERSONA SA NEGROS ORIENTAL

Nakuhaan sang P3.4 million nga balor sang ginapatihan shabu ang isa ka persona sa buy-bust operation nga ginpatigayon sa Barangay San Miguel, banwa sang Bacong, Negros Oriental, Huwebes, Septiembre 11.

Ginkilala ang suspek sa kay alyas Cyrel, 56, residente sang banwa sang Sta. Catalina sang amo nga probinsya.

Na-recover sa suspek ang isa ka medium sized kag lima ka large-size nga mga plastic sachets nga nagaunod sang ginapatihan shabu nga nagabug-at sang 500 grams.

Ang nasambit nga suspek magapangatubang sang kaso nga paglapas sa Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

Ginpangunahan sang Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit sang Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office ang operasyon upod ang Bacong Municipal Police Station kag Philippine Drug Enforcement Unit - Negros Oriental.

*PRO NIR photos

11/09/2025

OPERATIONAL SUPPORT TO PHILIPPINE ARMY. Provincial officials led by Gov. B**g Lacson and Vice Gov. Jose Benito Alonso spearheaded the ceremonial turnover of operational support amounting to ₱3.8 million to Philippine Army battalion units stationed in various LGUs in the Negros Island.

The assistance was distributed to the 15th Infantry Battalion (Cauayan), 62nd Infantry Battalion (Guihulngan City/Isabela), 79th Infantry Battalion (Sagay City), 94th Infantry Battalion (Isabela), 47th Infantry Battalion (Mabinay), 32nd Division Reconnaissance Company (Cauayan), 33rd Division Reconnaissance Company (Binalbagan), 32nd Civil Military Operations Company, and the 303rd Brigade (Murcia).

The support package underscores the Provincial Government’s continuing commitment to strengthen peace and order initiatives, as well as to reinforce the Phil Army’s operational capabilities in safeguarding communities and maintaining security in Negros Island.

Joining the governor and vice governor were Provincial Board Members Rita Gatuslao, Paula Alonso, Jeffrey Tubola, Andrew Montelibano, Arthur Marañon, Richard Sablan, Nicholas Yulo, and Bambi Depasucat, together with Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz.

The turnover ceremony was held at the Provincial Capitol in Bacolod City on September 9. (Capitol PIO)

11/09/2025

KASO SANG TYPHOID FEVER SA BACOLOD CITY NAGSAKA SANG 23.6%

Nagsaka sang 23.6% ang kaso sang Typhoid Fever sa ciudad sang Bacolod sini nga tuig.

Sandig sa data sang Bacolod City Health Office, yara sa 68 ang kaso sang typhoid fever nga nalista sini nga 2025.

Mas mataas sang sa na-record nga 55 ka mga kaso humalin Enero tubtob katapusan sang bulan sang Agosto sadtong 2024, apang may isa naman nga napatay.

Ang typhoid fever ukon “tipus” isa ka balatian nga makuha sang tawo paagi sa pag-inom ukon pagkaon sang kalan-on nga kontaminado sang higko sang tawo nga may dala kagaw ukon bacteria nga Salmonella typhi.

11/09/2025

BACOLOD CITY GOVERNMENT HANDA NGA MAGHATAG SANG PROTEKSYON SA MGA BIKTIMA SANG SEXUAL HARASSMENT NGA MAGWA KAG MAGPANUGID

Handa nga maghatag sang proteksyon kag suporta ang Bacolod City government sa mga biktima sang sexual harassment kag pareho nga sahi sang pagpang-abuso kon maggwa sang mga ini kag manugid sa autoridad tuhoy sa ila nga na-experiensyahan.

Suno kay Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya, ginakondena sini ng tanan nga sahi sang sexual misconduct ilabi na sulod sang mga institusyon nga ginasaligan sa edukasyon kag pagmolde sa mga kabataan.

Dugang pa niya nga wala sang lugar sa gobyerno ng mga tawo nga nagapang-abuso sang ila nga posisyon.

Ginmando na sang city government ang immediate dismissal sa maestro sang Bacolod City College nga ginapahayag ginreklamo sang sexual harassment sang isa ka estudyante nga babayi.

Suno naman kay City Legal Officer Atty. Karol Joseph Chiu nga ang ginapahayag indi maayo nga conduct sang maestro ang nagsugod pa sadtong bulan sang Pebrero kon sa diin ginapadal-an sini sang mga inappropriate text messages ang estudyante nga biktima.