TUGON Balita, Bulacan (2025)

23/08/2025

Babaeng may 13 warrant,
Arestado sa Bulacan

Angelito Siapco

CAMP JULIAN OLIVAS, Pampanga -- Arestado ang babaeng negosyante na mayroong hinaharap na 13 warrant of arrest sa Brgy. Piel, Baliwag City, Bulacan Sabado (Aug 23) ng umaga.

Sa ulat na natanggap ni Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones Jr., Central Luzon police director mula kay PCol. Angel Garcillano provincial director ng Bulacan ay kinilala ang akusado sa alias na "Lyn", 41 anyos, may asawa at residente ng Zone 5, Benigno Aquino St., Brgy. Sto Niño, ng nabanggit na bayan.

Ayon kay PMaj. Michael M. Santos Acting Force Commander ng 2nd Bulacan Provincial Mobile Force Company isinagawa ang pag aresto sa bisa ng warrant of arrest mula kina Hon. Ginalyn Rosal Rubio, Presiding Judge ng Regional Trial Court, Second Judicial Region, Branch 28, Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya para sa kasong Estafa in rel. to RA 10175 under Criminal Case No. 13501, dated July 18, 2024, na may pyansang Php 18,000.00; Hon. Ludovino Joseph Augusto Lacsamana Tobias Jr., Presiding Judge ng Municipal Circuit Trial Court, Third Judicial Region, Orion-Pilar, Bataan para sa kasong Other Deceits under Art. 318 ng RPC under Criminal Case Nos. 8808 to 8809, dated May 20 and 21, 2025, na may pyansang Php 3,000.00 each case; at Hon. Grace Victoria Ruiz, Presiding Judge ng Regional Trial Court, Third Judicial Region, Branch 22, Malolos City, Bulacan para sa kasong Estafa under Art. 315 Par. 2 (A) of RPC in Rel. to Sec.6 of RA10175 under Criminal Case Nos. 2834-M-2024 to 2843-M-2024, dated December 20, 2024, na may kabuuang pyansang Php 462,000.00.

Ipinaalam sa akusado ang kanyang mga karapatan sa konstitusyon sa isang diyalektong kilala at naiintindihan niya at ngayon ay pansamantalang inilagay sa ilalim ng kustodiya ng 2nd PMFC para sa dokumentasyon at tamang disposisyon bago ang pagbabalik ng warrant of arrest sa korteng pinagmulan.

23/08/2025

Vice mayors coalition calls for transparency, accountability on flood control projects

Ramon Efren R. Lazaro

BALIWAG CITY, Bulacan -- A coalition of vice mayors has been established that calls for the transparency and accountability on alleged anomalous flood control projects in the country.

Baliwag City Vice Mayor Ferdie Estrella told TUGON Balita in a text message that the vice mayors' coalition was an offshoot of the Mayors for Good Governance group.

He also confirmed that he was also a signatory to the Vice Mayors for Good Governance (VMGG) group.

It can be recalled that on August 15 this year, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. personally inspected two flood control projects in Calumpit town that were found constructed with substandard materials and on Wednesday (August 20) personally visited and inspected a flood control ghost project of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Baliwag City.

Based on the vice mayors group Facebook post as of noontime yesterday (August 22), it has already 39 members from the different parts of the country and had expressed deep concern over persistent reports of graft and corruption in the implementation of flood control projects across the country.

It cited that these projects were meant to protect lives and livelihoods and have too often become vehicles for profiteering by unscrupulous politicians and contractors.

The group also joined President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. in condemning the misuse of public funds, substandard construction, and the manipulation of procurement processes that undermine the very purpose of these projects.

The group has several demands that include:

"Full Transparency and Public Disclosure: All flood control projects—budgets, contractors, timelines, and technical plans—must be made accessible to the public. Citizens deserve to know how their money is being spent.

"Independent Oversight: The Commission on Audit (COA), civil society organizations, academic institutions, and people’s groups must be empowered to conduct real-time monitoring of project implementation to prevent corruption before it happens.

"Accountability for Wrongdoers: We call on investigative agencies and the Ombudsman to pursue cases against politicians, contractors, and officials of the DPWH proven to have engaged in anomalous practices. Corruption in disaster resilience projects is not just theft—it is a crime against public safety and endangers the lives of millions of ordinary Filipinos.

"Strengthening Local Government Capacity: Local governments must be empowered to take a bigger role in planning and monitoring flood control projects in their jurisdictions, ensuring that projects meet real community needs and are not dictated by political or business interests."

It also cited that "flood control projects are lifelines, not profit streams. We owe it to our people to safeguard these initiatives from corruption and deliver solutions that are durable, effective and just."

It is also calling on its "fellow leaders—national and local—to reject the politics of self-interest and embrace the politics of service."

22/08/2025

PRO3 Intensifies Internal Cleansing, Resolves 67 Administrative Cases

Angelito Siapco

CAMP JULIAN OLIVAS, Pampanga — Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) has significantly heightened its internal cleansing efforts, recording a substantial increase in resolved administrative cases in line with Chief PNP General Nicolas D. Torre III’s third core pillar—Accountability and Modernization.

From June 19 to August 20, 2025, PRO3 resolved 67 cases under the leadership of PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., compared to 38 cases in the January 9 to June 18, 2025 period. During this time, 74 personnel faced disciplinary action: 39 dismissed, 3 demoted, 29 suspended, and 3 reprimanded; notably, 5 of those were Police Commissioned Officers (PCOs).

These figures underscore PRO3’s unwavering commitment to instilling discipline, bolstering internal accountability, and upholding professionalism within the force.

The movement echoes broader PNP-wide initiatives. Chief PNP Torre III highlighted that over 3,400 personnel have been sanctioned nationwide in the past year under the enhanced internal cleansing drive.

In his statement, PBGEN Peñones Jr. stressed:
“Our intensified internal cleansing is not merely about discipline, but about building unity and morale within our ranks. This ensures we perform our duties with integrity and credibility—fundamentally reinforcing the trust and confidence of the people we serve.”

PRO3 remains determined to sustain this momentum, in full support of Chief PNP Torre III’s vision for a disciplined, and morally resilient Philippine National Police.

21/08/2025

Korean Police Help Desk Established at Angeles City Police Station 4

Angelito Siapco

CAMP JULIAN OLIVAS, Pampanga — A new Korean Police Help Desk was formally established at Angeles City Police Station 4 to strengthen public safety services for the growing Korean community in the area, early this morning, August 21.

The inauguration was graced by Ambassador Lee Sang-Hwa of the Republic of Korea, Usec. Gilberto DC Cruz, Executive Director of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), and Choi Jong Pil, President of the Korean Association in Angeles City, alongside leaders of various Korean communities.

The initiative aims to provide a dedicated platform for Korean nationals to seek police assistance, report crimes, and receive guidance on safety concerns. It also highlights the long-standing cooperation between the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Korean communities in promoting peace and order in Angeles City, a popular destination for Korean residents and tourists.

Ambassador Lee expressed his gratitude to the Philippine government and the PNP for their continued support, saying the help desk will foster stronger ties and ensure the welfare of Koreans living in the city.

Meanwhile, Usec. Cruz lauded the partnership as a concrete step in enhancing community relations. “This help desk is not just about security—it is about trust, cooperation, and the shared goal of building safer communities for everyone,” he said.

Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) Regional Director, PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., commended the initiative, emphasizing the PNP’s commitment to inclusive policing. “The establishment of the Korean Police Help Desk is a testament to our dedication in ensuring that all communities, both local and foreign, feel safe, respected, and protected. We will continue to foster partnerships that strengthen trust and cooperation in the region,” he said.

Police officials assured that the help desk will be manned by trained personnel who can provide immediate and culturally sensitive assistance. The establishment of the Korean Police Help Desk is expected to encourage closer collaboration between local authorities and the Korean community, further reinforcing Angeles City’s commitment to public safety and inclusivity.

21/08/2025

PRO3 Stages Weeklong RD Peñones Jr’s Marksmanship Challenge at Bacolor Shooting Range

Angelito Siapco

CAMP JULIAN OLIVAS, Pampanga – Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) kicks off, today, August 19 its weeklong Regional Director’s Marksmanship Challenge led by PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. at the Bacolor Practical Shooting Range, drawing participation from both PRO3 personnel and civilian shooting enthusiasts

The event brings together police officers from different provincial and city police offices across Central Luzon, along with civilian partners, in a friendly competition designed to sharpen shooting skills while fostering discipline, focus, and responsible firearm use.
In his message, RD Peñones Jr. emphasized the importance of regular marksmanship training to ensure operational readiness and public safety.

“Marksmanship is not only a test of precision but also of discipline and responsibility. By holding this challenge and engaging our civilian partners, we build confidence, camaraderie, and stronger ties between the police and the community,” he said.

The weeklong challenge also serves as a community engagement initiative, reinforcing partnerships with responsible gun enthusiasts while promoting professionalism among police officers.

Through activities like this, PRO3 continues to support the vision of PNP Chief PGen. Nicolas D. Torre III for a highly capable and future-ready police force, prepared to face both operational challenges and community needs.

20/08/2025

PBBM inspects "ghost" flood control project in Bulacan

Ramon Efren R. Lazaro

CITY OF MALOLOS, Bulacan -- After inspecting substandard flood control projects in Calumpit town last week, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. personally inspected yesterday morning a "ghost" reinforced concrete riverwall project in this city.

The President arrived around 8:30 am in Purok 4 in Barangay Piel, Baliwag City for the site inspection of the "ghost project" that was conducted with no provincial elected officials of Bulacan accompanying the Chief Executive , a Philippine Information Agency-Bulacan personnel said in a text message to TUGON Balita

The President was quoted as saying that an economic sabotage case will be slapped on those involved in the said ghost project in the said city.

It is a 220 meters project that cost P55 million and records from the Public Works showed that it was completed but upon inspection showed nothing has been done there, the President said.

A GMA news report said that based on the Department of Public Works and Highways document, the contractor of the said project was identified as Syms Construction Trading, with a total contract cost of P55,730,911.60.

The project was said to have started on February 2, 2025 and by June 2025 it was reported to be already completed and fully paid.

Earlier, Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando denied any knowledge of the flood control projects by the DPWH in Bulacan.

He said in televised interviews that he has signed an executive order that will make the DPWH to report to him any flood control projects that it will be implementing in the province.

Tugon Balita tried to get a copy of the executive order of the governor from a staff of the Provincial Public Affairs Office of Bulacan who only replied "Ipapa coordinate ko po."

When asked on any official statement by the provincial government of Bulacan regarding the flood control inspections by the President in the province, another staff replied "We kindly ask to wait for the official press release of the Provincial Government of Bulacan regarding this matter. Rest assured, it will be shared with you once available."

17/08/2025

Pick up truk bumangga sa Tricycle, 2 Patay sa Bataan

Angelito Siapco

CAMP JULIAN OLIVAS, Pampanga -- Nabangga ng isang pick up truk ang likurang bahagi ng tricycle Sabado (August 16) ng umaga na ikinamatay ng dalawang babaeng pasahero.

Sa ulat na natanggap ni Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones Jr., Central Luzon regional police director, kinilala ang mga nasawi na sina Karmina Isabell Calanoc at Marielle Turla na kapwa residente ng Barangay San Simon, Dinalupihan, Bataan.

Ayon kay Maj. Winston Noble Officer in Charge ng Hermosa MPS lumalabas sa inisyal na imbestigasyon na bandang alas-5:50 ng umaga ang mga biktima kasama si Olivia Torres ay mga pasahero ng pulang Yamaha YTX tricycle na may body number12-083 na minamaneho ni Alvin Benavente at binabaybay ang Roman Superhighway sa Barangay Palihan, bayan ng Hermosa nang mabangga ang kanilang sasakyan sa likurang bahagi ng isang kulay gintong Ford Ranger na may plakang CAC 764, na minamaneho ni alias "Jose", residente ng Tierra Feliza, Barangay Upper Tuyo, Balanga City, Bataan.

Dahil sa impact, bumangga ang tricycle sa poste ng kuryente na nagdulot ng pinsala sa mga sakay nito.

Ang mga nasugatan ay isinugod ng mga rescuer sa Dinalupihan District Hospital kung saan ang dalawang nasawi ay idineklarang dead on arrival ng attending physician.

Ang driver ng pick up ay inilagay sa kustodiya ng Hermosa Municipal Police Station para sa pagsisiyasat, dokumentasyon at tamang disposisyon.

Photo Courtesy of Maj. Winston Norte OIC Hermosa MPS

17/08/2025

Bulacan mayor supports Mayors for Good Governance

Ramon Efren R. Lazaro

MARILAO, Bulacan -- Marilao Mayor Jem Sy has thrown her support to the coalition of local chief executives under the banner Mayors for Good Governance.

She has confirmed to TUGON Balita that she is all in for the full transparency and accountability in the wake of corruption allegations involving ₱350 billion worth of flood control projects.

The coalition in a social media post said “Flood control projects have existed for decades, but corruption in these projects has become more alarming, pervasive, and systematic.”

It stressed that public funds must be safeguarded, saying those proven guilty must not only be removed from office but also prosecuted and jailed.

“Corruption must end now,” the coalition added. “The Filipino people deserve a government that protects and serves them, not one that endangers their lives and robs them of their future.”

Residents of Marilao town, especially those in low-lying areas, have been experiencing floodings during the rainy season and during Manila Bay's high tides.

On Friday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who was joined by Bulacan officials led by Gov. Daniel Fernando, inspected two flood control projects in Calumpit town that were found to be constructed with substandard materials.

Photo from Atty. Jem Sy FB Page

16/08/2025

PBBM inspects river protection projects in Bulacan

Ramon Efren R. Lazaro

CALUMPIT, Bulacan --President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., personally inspected in Friday (August 15) two "substandard" river protection projects in this town.

The President's site inspection on the river projects coincided with the commemoration of Bulacan's 447th founding anniversary that has the theme of “Bulacan: Nagmamahal sa Kasaysayan, Nagtataguyod ng Kaunlaran.”

Among those joining the President in the site inspections were Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando, Vice Gov. Alex Castro and Transportation Sec. Vince Dizon.

First to be inspected was the flood control project in Barangay Bulusan where the President noted that the construction of the structure was underspecified.

The Chief Executive said that they have pictures to prove it and sent divers to inspect the d**e structure under the river and discovered the cemented portion of the d**e was thin and was not evenly spread.

He also explained that all flood control projects include dredging and desilting operations and asked a village officials if he has seen such such operations who replied none has been noted in the said project.

A visibly irritated President said records showed that dredging and desilting operations were conducted on the said project.

He pointed out that they will trace where these programs originated, where the funds were spent, why the result of the completed project turned out this way and who signed the documents claiming the project was completed as specified.

The said river project cost of over P96.4 million that was built by St. Timothy Construction Corporation, identified as one of the top three contractors out of the 15 that secured most of the flood-control projects nationwide, the Presidential Communication Office reported.

After the site inspection in Barangay Bulusan, the President proceeded to Barangay Frances in the said town to conduct a site inspection on the village flood mitigation structure worth P77.1 million that was constructed by Wawao Builders, identified as one of the top 15 contractors with a total of 58 flood-control projects.

Netizens are also encouraged to report on the condition of flood-control projects in their areas through the sumbongsapangulo.ph website.

The project site inspections were made after the President recently highlighted irregularities related to the government’s flood control programs, consisting of 9,855 projects completed from July 2022 to May 2025 and funded by P545 billion budget.

Bulacan reportedly has the most flood control projects, with 668 projects worth about PhP6.5 billion, even though the province is not listed among official flood-prone areas.

Photos by Shane Frias Velasco

14/08/2025

Bulacan woman mayor donates salary to constituents

Ramon Efren R. Lazaro

MARILAO, Bulacan -- The first termer woman mayor of this town has donated her salary as chief executive of the town to the needy sector in her municipality.

Mayor Jem Sy has confirmed to TUGON Balita that she has donated her first salary amounting to P105,000 to the sector of the senior citizens in her municipality.

She said her succeeding salaries will be distributed to other sectors of her constituents "para pandagdag tulong sa mga nangangailangan."

She explained that her idea of public service is to provide help to the needy ones and no need for monetary compensation.

She pointed out that "the altruistic feeling that you have done something is more than enough compensation."

When asked is she has other sources of income, Mayor Sy replied that she is a lawyer and has a logistics company.

Photo Credit to Atty. Jem Sy page

14/08/2025

2 Babae, Patay, itinapon sa kanal sa Zambales

Angelito Siapco

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga -- Dalawang babae na pinaniniwalaang summarily executed ang itinapon sa isang kanal sa Palauig, Zambales kaninang madaling araw (August 14).

Sa inisyal na report na nakarating kay Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones Jr., Central Luzon regional police director, kinilala ang mga biktima na sina Ericha Ednalaguim, 24 anyos residente ng Purok Relocation, Brgy. Taltal Masinloc, Zambales, at alias "Lengleng", residente ng Tarlac.

Ayon kay Capt. Leoven Eduagen, acting police chief ng Palauig base sa inisyal na imbestigasyon na isang residenteng nakatira malapit sa kung saan itinapon ang dalawang biktima ay nagsabi na nakarinig siya ng sunud-sunod na putok ng baril bandang 3:00 ng umaga at kalaunan ay narinig niya ang isang humaharurot na kotse.

Nadiskubre ang mga biktima bandang 6:30 ng umaga sa isang water canal sa Purok 5, Barangay Salaza, bayan ng Palauig.

Sinabi ni Eduagen na humingi na sila ng tulong sa Provincial Police Forensic Unit ng Zambales habang nagpapatuloy ang masusing imbestigasyon.

Photo credit to Hariku Souta Facebook Account.

11/08/2025

Patay na lalaki natagpuan sa ilog sa Bulacan

Angelito Siapco

BOCAUE, Bulacan -- Isang patay na lalaki na hinihinalang nalunod ang narekober ng mga miyembro ng Bocaue Rescue sa tabi ng Bocaue River pasado alas-dos ng tanghali noong Linggo (August 10).

Isang opisyal ng Bulacan Rescue ang nagsabi na ang hindi pa nakikilalang lalaking biktima ay natagpuang lumulutang sa ilog sa pagitan ng boundary ng Bocaue at Marilao dakong alas-12:06 ng tanghali at dinala sa Bocaue Fishport kung saan ito ay itinurn-over sa lokal na pulisya.

Sa informing message mula kay Lt. Col. Col.Jordan Santiago, acting Marilao police chief, natagpuan ang biktima malapit sa Legaspi fish pond sa Phase 5 Town and Country Subdivision.

Dagdag pa ni Santiago, walang palatandaan ng foul play ang biktima at agad silang humingi ng tulong sa Bulacan Forensic Unit para sa tamang disposisyon.

TUGON Balita

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