Round up Calabarzon, Calamba (2025)

28/07/2025

Private sector steps up: Donates frozen goods to Laguna towns

LAGUNA (July 28) - The spirit of ”bayanihan” was alive and well as two well-known food brands-Pampanga’s Best and Joshua’s Meat Products-joined hands with the Laguna provincial government to provide much-needed food assistance to residents affected by recent calamities.

According to Danny Lucas, Acting Provincial Information Officer, a combined 2,000 kilos of frozen goods were donated by the two companies through Governor Sol Aragones’ Akay ni Gob Libreng Ulam program. Pampanga’s Best earmarked its 1,000-kilo donation for families in Cabuyao City, while Joshua’s Meat Products directed its entire 1,000-kilo contribution to households in Los Baños and Bay towns.

The initiative reflects the growing involvement of private partners in Governor Sol’s food relief program, which has become a reliable source of support for thousands of Lagunenses during times of need.

“Kapag may dumating na tulong mula sa mga partner natin, agad-agad po natin itong naipapamahagi,” said Gov. Sol Aragones, emphasizing swift, transparent, and compassionate service delivery.

The distribution was carried out in partnership with mayors, councilors, board members, the Sol Ladies, and provincial employees who ensured that the frozen goods reached families who needed them most.

For single mother and street sweeper Emma Bartequin of Cabuyao, the donation was more than just food-it was a lifeline.

“Malaking tulong po ito sa amin, lalo na po ako ay single mom. Maraming salamat po, may pang-ulam na po kami,” she said.

Albert Morela, a father from the same city, echoed her gratitude, “Maraming salamat kay Gov Sol. Malaking bagay ito lalo na’t hirap kami sa pagkain minsan.”

With private sector support growing stronger, Akay ni Gob Libreng Ulam continues to deliver not just meals-but a message of unity, care, and shared responsibility. As long as generous hands and willing hearts come together, the province of Laguna stands ready to face challenges with hope and dignity. (RC)

Calabarzon Today

26/07/2025

Laguna placed under state of calamity, 55K residents displaced

By Zen Trinidad

July 26, 2025, 2:51 pm

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna – Governor Sol Aragones has placed the province under a state of calamity following the onslaught of Typhoon Crising and intensified southwest monsoon rains, which have disrupted the lives of nearly 55,000 residents in 244 barangays.

As of 6 a.m. Saturday, the Office of Civil Defense and the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Disaster Response Operations Monitoring and Information Center reported that about 9,540 families, or approximately 44,000 individuals, remain in evacuation centers.

An additional 3,110 families, or about 11,000 people, are currently staying with relatives or in makeshift shelters outside official facilities.

Upon approval by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board), Aragones placed the entire province under a state of calamity on Friday afternoon, announced through her official page.

She reported significant damage across key sectors, particularly agriculture and livestock, noting that thousands of livelihoods have been affected.

“The declaration of a state of calamity will allow us to access emergency funds more swiftly and implement necessary interventions to assist our kababayans,” Aragones said. “It will also fast-track relief, rehabilitation, and restoration of essential services.”

Medical teams and disaster response units remain on high alert, providing critical assistance to displaced and vulnerable communities.

Meanwhile, Danny Lucas, acting Public Information Officer, told reporters that Aragones made the rounds in the hardest-hit areas, offering comfort and assurance to displaced families.

Under her flagship campaign, Gobernong May SOLusyon, Aragones pledged sustained aid and recovery efforts for affected communities.

He added that the “Akay ni Gob” initiative served free breakfasts, lunches, and snacks in evacuation areas, powered by the collective efforts of local government units, the SOL Ladies, and dedicated volunteers. (PNA)

Calabarzon Today

26/07/2025

FEATURE

Love sealed after 37 years: Mayor Ruanto officiates wedding amid rain and revelry

By: Zen Trinidad

July 26, 2025

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna - Not even the gloomy weather of enhanced Southwest Monsoon and typhoons could dampen the joyful celebration of love and second chances in Infanta, Quezon.

Mayor Lord Arnel L. Ruanto solemnized his very first wedding ceremony on July 25, 2025, as town mayor - and it was no ordinary union. It was a love story 37 years in the making, between Anghelito “Pakoy” Alvarez, 56, and Angelita “Angge” Ubaña, 54, whose journey of devotion and resilience captivated everyone in the room.

Where it all began

The couple, affectionately dubbed “Anghelito and Angelita,” shared a teleserye-like tale that began in the 1980s, when fate brought them together in a Manila handicraft shop where Pakoy worked with Angge’s older brother. From simple daily encounters grew a love that led to a civil wedding in Tayabas City in 1988- or so they thought.

A hidden truth uncovered

For nearly four decades, they lived as husband and wife, raising seven children and building a life grounded in sacrifice, commitment, and enduring affection. But just recently, a surprising discovery revealed that their marriage had never been officially registered- the paperwork believed to have been completed by Pakoy’s mother had never made it to the legal records.

Instead of shock, the revelation stirred something deeper in the family. Their children, proud of their parents’ steadfast love, rallied together to give them the official wedding they deserved.

With Mayor Ruanto presiding over the ceremony at the municipal hall, the couple exchanged vows once more - this time, with legal recognition and community celebration. Family members, friends, and municipal staff witnessed the moving moment, which quickly became the talk of the town.

More than just vows

In a gesture of support and admiration, Mayor Ruanto gifted the couple a special wedding package: free venue decorations, a professionally produced Same-Day Edit (SDE) wedding video, and a cash gift of PHP 37,000- one thousand pesos for each year they have spent together.

“Love, when rooted in time and tested by trials, only grows stronger,” said Mayor Ruanto. “Pakoy and Angge are a living proof that true love doesn’t need grand beginnings - just hearts that stay.”

The story has gone viral in the Infanta community, with netizens showering the couple with congratulations and praise. Many called it a reminder that love knows no bounds- not even time or paperwork.

This wedding was more than a ceremony. It was a celebration of enduring love, of family, and of a local government that recognizes stories of strength and honors them with heart. (RC)

Calabarzon Today

Contributed photos by JR Narit

25/07/2025

Warm meals, Warmer hearts: “Akay ni Gob” brings breakfast and snacks to Laguna residents

By: Zen Trinidad

July 25, 2025

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna - In a heartfelt display of inclusive governance and community care, Governor Sol Aragones led two simultaneous feeding initiatives under the “Akay ni Gob” program on Friday, bringing free breakfast to 15 towns and San Pablo City, and free snacks to 14 others.

According to Danny Lucas, Acting Provincial Information Officer, the “Akay ni Gob Libreng Almusal” program served warm champorado and biscuits to street sweepers, tricycle drivers, barangay workers, and early risers in public service.

In San Pablo City, he shared street sweeper Marites Santos saying, “Salamat po sa mainit na champorado. Hindi po araw-araw may ganito para sa amin.”

Jeron Ronquillo, a tricycle driver, echoed the sentiment: “Ngayon lang po may nagpalibreng almusal sa amin. Malaking tulong ito sa gaya kong maagang naghahanapbuhay.”

Later in the day, the “Akay ni Gob Libreng Miryenda” initiative rolled out across 14 towns, bringing snacks and smiles to families, children, and senior citizens.

In Los Baños, Melodina Manza came with her grandchildren: “Masarap po ang miryenda. Pumila din ang aking mga apo at natuwa sila.”

For Herman Antenor, a person with disability, the gesture carried special meaning: “Kahit papaano po ay malaking bagay ito sakin.”

These back-to-back activities were made possible through strong coordination between the provincial government, local officials, and tireless volunteers, proving that public service anchored in empathy can have widespread, lasting impact.

“These meals may be simple, but the message is clear - no one is forgotten. This is the kind of leadership that uplifts,” said one volunteer in Calauan.

As the GOByernong may SOLusyon continues to expand its reach, Governor Aragones remains committed to touching lives - one meal, one smile, one town at a time. RC

Calabarzon Today

24/07/2025

Warm lunch, Warmer hearts: Gov. Sol’s free meal drive brings comfort to flooded communities

By Zen Trinidad

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (July 24) - In the wake of relentless monsoon rains that submerged towns and forced families from their homes, warmth arrived not just in the form of food- but in compassion.

In a message Thursday, Danny Lucas, Acting Provincial Information Officer, disclosed that through “Akay ni Gob Libreng Tanghalian,” Laguna Governor Sol Aragones brought more than just free meals to flood-affected communities - she brought presence, comfort, and care.

He added that in evacuation centers and flooded barangays across the cities of Santa Rosa and Calamba as well as in the towns of Victoria, Mabitac, Majayjay, Lumban, and Santa Cruz, the unmistakable aroma of hot rice and viands filled the air as hundreds of residents lined up. Governor Sol, accompanied by local officials, personally handed out lunch to evacuees and residents, ensuring that no one - not even those who chose to weather the rains at home- was left behind.

“Distributed to affected residents in five towns and two municipalities were more than 8,000 lunch packs,”Lucas informed.

He shared Lita Castillo of Barangay Maligaya in Mabitac comment that the gesture meant more than just a full stomach.

“Nagpapasalamat po kami. Malaking tulong po sa amin ang libreng tanghalian na ito,” she said with a quiet smile, holding her lunch pack close.

The initiative - now a cornerstone of the province’s disaster response - served not only as immediate relief, but also as a symbol of solidarity. Each warm meal was a message: you are not alone.

Further, after the meal distributions, Gov. Sol proceeded to Pila to deliver family food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), extending the day’s outreach.

In a time of floodwaters and uncertainty, “Akay ni Gob Libreng Tanghalian” reminds the people of Laguna that in every storm, there’s a leader ready to walk with them - with a warm heart, a helping hand, and a hot meal, the message concluded.(RC)

24/07/2025

NGCP prepares for Severe Tropical Storm Emong

Power system operator and transmission service provider National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) has implemented the necessary preparations and precautions to minimize the impact of Severe Tropical Storm Emong (Co-may), Tropical Storm Dante (Francisco), and the prevailing southwest monsoon or habagat on transmission operations and facilities.

Preparations include ensuring the reliability of communications equipment, availability of hardware materials and supplies necessary for the repair of damage to facilities, as well as the positioning of line crews in strategic areas to facilitate immediate restoration work.

NGCP’s Integrated Disaster Action Plan (IDAP) prescribes these and other procedures to ensure the readiness of all power transmission facilities expected to be affected by the passage of the weather disturbances

Via Zen Trinidad

Calabarzon Today

23/07/2025

Gov. Sol to deploy Mobile Clinic, prepares medical aid in wake of continuous rains

By: Zen Trinidad

July 23, 2025

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna - As the province continues to reel from days of torrential rains brought by the enhanced Southwest Monsoon, Governor Sol Aragones has ordered swift medical preparedness to address potential health issues arising from flooding and damp conditions.

On Wednesday, July 23, Gov. Sol directed the Provincial Health Office (PHO) to ready essential medicines and vitamins for distribution to residents who may fall ill from the ongoing inclement weather since July 19.

The governor personally inspected the provincial pharmacy at the Public Affairs Office (PAO), ensuring the availability of medications for common ailments such as fever, cough, flu, and skin infections. She also checked the Mobile Clinic, which is equipped with diagnostic tools including X-ray, ECG, blood sugar testing kits, and an ultrasound machine.

“The Mobile Clinic will be deployed to the most affected barangays to offer on-site medical check-ups and medicine distribution,” Gov. Sol said in her Social Media page, noting that this initiative could also ease the load on district hospitals.

Of particular concern is leptospirosis—a waterborne disease transmitted through floodwaters contaminated with rat urine. Medicines for its prevention and treatment are part of the provincial stockpile.

“I want to prepare and be ready to help those who will fall ill from the inclement weather we are experiencing today,” Gov. Sol emphasized.

The provincial government continues its proactive response, with health services now complementing the earlier distribution of food packs and relief goods.

Calabarzon Today

23/07/2025

Gov. Sol leads flood response as monsoon rains continue to batter Laguna

By: Zen Trinidad

July 23, 2025

CALAMBA CITY, LAGUNA - As the enhanced Southwest Monsoon (Habagat), intensified by Tropical Storm "Dante" and Tropical Depression "Emong," continues to bring heavy rains across CALABARZON, Governor Sol Aragones is spearheading rapid relief efforts for flood-affected communities in Laguna.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has forecasted persistent rains until Friday, July 25, 2025. Due to the risk of flooding and landslides in low-lying areas, classes have been suspended since Monday afternoon for all levels across the province.

In response to the worsening situation, Governor Aragones personally led the distribution of food packs and essential supplies from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to over 1,500 families - or approximately 7,500 individuals -in Barangays Dela Paz and Malaban, Biñan City.

Today, the Governor, accompanied by local officials, extended similar assistance to 1,000 residents in Barangay Landayan, City of San Pedro.

“The relief effort is part of the province’s continuing commitment to deliver timely support and promote the welfare of every Lagunense, true to the principles of a GOByernong may SOLusyon,” said Danny Lucas, Officer-in-Charge of the Provincial Information Office.

He said that Governor Sol also ensured that health workers in Laguna’s district hospitals received food rations as they remain on duty to provide urgent medical care. While government work has been suspended, her team remains on the ground, conducting real-time monitoring and dispatching aid to the most affected areas.

As weather conditions remain unstable, the provincial government urges residents to stay alert and follow safety advisories.

Calabarzon Today

22/07/2025

Mayor Ross Rizal acts fast to protect Calamba amid rains and landslides

By: Zen Trinidad

July 22, 2025

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna - As monsoon rains and the effects of Tropical Cyclone “Crising” continue to challenge many parts of Calamba City, Mayor Roseller ‘Ross’ Rizal has taken swift and decisive action to protect residents, especially in the most vulnerable areas.

Following the landslide and heavy flooding in Barangay Pansol on July 12, Mayor Rizal immediately convened the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) to lay out urgent safety and rehabilitation measures.

Halt on Hazardous Developments

Among the first steps taken was the suspension of subdivision development in Brgy. Pansol, particularly the halted construction in the Lago Vista area. The Mayor also announced a moratorium on new mountain-side developments in Barangays Pansol, Bucal, and New Road, citing environmental safety and community well-being as top priorities.

Mayor Rizal, together with Engr. Irwin Pacada of the City Engineering Office, Barangay Captain Joel “Weng” Martinez, and POSO Chief Conrado Masongsong, personally inspected affected areas and ensured immediate engineering interventions would be put in place.

Safety First: Clearing Waterways and Strengthening Infrastructure

The city has ramped up dredging, desilting, and clearing of waterways-including the removal of illegal structures obstructing creeks and drainage systems. These actions, Rizal emphasized, are “for the safety of all Calambeños.”

The Mayor also led aid missions in Barangay Barandal, where preemptive evacuations were done, and in Barangay Pansol, where he spoke with residents and ensured their concerns were heard.

Community-Based Recovery: Food-for-Work Launched

Demonstrating the power of unity, Mayor Rizal rolled out the Food-for-Work Program in multiple barangays: Balagbag Araw, Mabato, Palingon, Lingga, Sampiruhan, Poblacion Dos, Laguerta, Majada Out, and Majada In. Residents in these areas are helping clean and rehabilitate their communities while receiving food assistance in return-a symbol of dignity and “bayanihan” in action.

Looking Ahead: Building a Resilient Calamba

Beyond immediate relief, the City Government is working on long-term solutions. In a meeting with department heads and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Mayor Rizal pushed for the acceleration of flood control, traffic decongestion, permit processing reform, and improved waste management.

“We are not just responding-we are planning and acting for a stronger, safer, and more developed Calamba,” Mayor Rizal said. “Hindi kami titigil hanggang may solusyon.”

In times of trial, the people of Calamba can count on their Mayor to not only lead but listen, act, and build back better.

Calabarzon Today

22/07/2025

From Reporting the news to leading the Response: Gov. Sol Aragones braves floodwaters in Binan

By: Zen Trinidad

July 22, 2025

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna -For thirteen years , Sol Aragones was on the ground covering disasters as a trusted reporter for ABS-CBN. Today, as Governor of Laguna, she is once again on the ground -not with a microphone, but with a mission.

On Tuesday, July 22, Governor Sol Aragones personally led relief operations in flood-hit barangays of Biñan City, including Dela Paz and Malaban, where overflowing waters have displaced hundreds of families. Several public schools now serve as temporary evacuation centers.

Aragones, joined by Biñan City Mayor Gel Alonte, Vice Mayor Dada Reyes, Vice Governor Atty. JM Carait, and local councilors, braved knee-deep floods to ensure food packs and aid reached the most affected residents. Over 5,000 food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) are on standby for rapid deployment across Laguna.

“This scene used to be part of my coverage as a journalist,” Aragones recalled, standing in a drenched school corridor turned evacuation center. “Now, it’s my responsibility to act, not just report.”

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warns that monsoon rains will persist until Wednesday, further challenging local efforts.

But Gov. Sol, drawing strength from her experience and deep empathy for ordinary Lagunense, remains committed: “We go where we are needed, rain or shine. That’s our job- and our duty.”

Calabarzon Today

21/07/2025

Gov. Sol delivers on health promise with supplies, staffing push at JP Rizal Memorial Hospital

By: Zen Trinidad

July 21, 2025

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna - Fulfilling her campaign promise to improve healthcare in Laguna, Governor Sol Aragones delivered truckloads of medicine, IV fluids, and medical supplies to Jose P. Rizal Memorial Hospital on Monday.

Joined by former DOH Undersecretary Dr. Eric Tayag, now Provincial Health Consultant, and the OIC Provincial Health Officer, Gov. Sol personally oversaw the restocking of essential supplies, which will now be given free of charge to patients.

“Ito po ay hindi lang pangako, kundi panata- ayusin ang pampublikong ospital,” Aragones declared.
("This is not just a promise, but a vow to fix our public hospitals.")

She also visited the hospital pharmacy and her designated office, a fulfillment of her pledge to be physically present in hospitals during her term. The initiative is part of her broader plan to uplift services in all nine district hospitals in Laguna.

JP Rizal Hospital, in particular, suffers from a nursing shortage, with only 11 nurses out of the 19 recommended by DOH. Aragones vowed to address this with urgency as the provincial government is now accepting applicants for nurses, medical aides, medical officers, among others.

She also committed to upgrading the hospital to Level II, which includes specialized services and an ICU, and sought support from the DOH and Senator B**g Go whom she visited recently at the House of Senate.

“Gobyernong may solusyon po ito- mabilis, makatao, at para sa lahat,” she emphasized.

Gov. Sol’s swift action affirms her administration’s vision of accessible, compassionate, and responsive public healthcare across Laguna.

Calabarzon Today

21/07/2025

Rep. Ann Matibag inaugurates new Gabaldon Hall, commits to more school projects in San Pedro

By: Zen Trinidad

July 21, 2025

SAN PEDRO CITY, Laguna9- A historic school building gets a new life as Laguna 1st District Representative Ann Matibag led the inauguration and blessing of the newly built Gabaldon Hall at Gabaldon Central Elementary School in Barangay Poblacion on Monday.

The project was completed in partnership with Senator Loren Legarda, the Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the San Pedro City Government, aimed at honoring heritage while improving learning environments.

“Ito pong Gabaldon ay isang imprastraktura, pero kung gugustuhin, maaari rin itong maging magandang tourist destination sa ating bayan,” Matibag said, highlighting the building’s cultural and historical value. ("This Gabaldon is more than infrastructure- it can also be a beautiful tourist destination for our city.")

Nicknamed “Lagunanay” for her maternal leadership style, Matibag assured students and teachers that more projects are on the way during her second term. She announced plans for a new school gymnasium and celebrated the recent opening of a four-story, air-conditioned classroom building in Pacita 2 Elementary School.

“We’re not just building classrooms,” she said. “We’re creating spaces for children to grow, to dream, and to succeed.”

She ended her speech with a message of inclusivity and gratitude:

“Walang maiiwan sa San Pedro. Lahat ay yayakapin ng inyong Lagunanay.”("No one will be left behind in San Pedro. Your Lagunanay will embrace everyone.")

Calabarzon Today

Round up Calabarzon

28/07/2025

26/07/2025

26/07/2025

25/07/2025

24/07/2025

24/07/2025

23/07/2025

23/07/2025

22/07/2025

22/07/2025

21/07/2025

21/07/2025

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