Round up Calabarzon

28/09/2026

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28/09/2026

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Gov. Aragones assures continued public service amid Ombudsman complaint

Zen Trinidad I September 28, 2026

SANTA CRUZ, Laguna- Governor Sol Aragones on Monday assured Laguna residents that the provincial government will continue delivering public services despite a graft complaint reportedly filed before the Office of the Ombudsman in Manila.

The complaint was filed by Board Member Lorenzo Zuniga, who represents the province’s Association of Barangay Chairpersons, in connection with a free civil service examination review program for 1,000 beneficiaries. Zuniga alleged that the program, reportedly priced at PHP 15,500 per participant, was undertaken without public bidding and that other providers offered lower rates. The allegation had earlier circulated through a social-media broadcast by media practitioner Gani Oro.

In a statement, Aragones said she had not yet received the official documents related to the complaint and criticized the premature circulation of allegations on social media. She questioned whether the publicity surrounding the case was intended to damage her reputation before she and her legal team could examine the records and respond through the proper process.

The governor expressed disappointment that an issue involving public officials had been brought into what she described as political attacks, rather than being addressed with focus on public service and due process. She maintained that integrity and accountability remain central to her administration’s work.

“Kailanman ay hindi natin isasakripisyo ang ating integridad at pananagutan sa pampublikong paglilingkod,” Aragones said.

Aragones said her legal team would review the complaint as soon as official records are received and issue an appropriate response based on the facts and applicable procedures. She stressed, however, that the provincial government’s programs and services will not be disrupted by the situation. (TKT)

24/09/2026

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PH–Korea genomic research center to boost country’s agricultural competitiveness

Zen Trinidad I September 24, 2026

LOS BAÑOS, Laguna-The University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) Agricultural Genomics Research Center (AGRC), established in partnership with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), aims to strengthen the Philippines’ agricultural competitiveness by advancing science and technology adoption in the sector.

Dr. Maria Genaleen Q. Diaz, program director, Philippine Genome Center, said the UPLB-AGRC will support researchers, scientists, and faculty in carrying out genome-based studies to improve the country’s agricultural productivity.

Dr. Diaz narrated those initial discussions among UPLB, KOICA, and partners on identifying gaps and priority needs in agricultural genomics began in 2019. The program formally commenced in 2022 with the First International Conference on Agricultural Genomics. Construction of the center began in 2023 after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. authorized the UPLB president to sign the KOICA grant agreement worth USD 14.95 million, leading to the facility’s inauguration on September 21, 2026.

The project, titled “Capacity-Building for Higher Education and the Establishment of Agricultural Genomics Research Center at the University of the Philippines Los Baños,” aside from the two-story building includes several key components:
• Procurement of state-of-the-art equipment for genomics and other omics technologies
• Development of a mid-term operational plan for UPLB-AGRC amid the evolving landscape of agricultural genomics research
• Enhancement of research and development capabilities through PhD scholarships at top Korean universities, MS scholarships in collaboration with IRRI, invitational training in bioinformatics and genomic techniques, internships, and seminars
• Collaborative research and knowledge exchange with academic institutions

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), also provided a grant for equipment, noted Dr. Diaz.

"Currently, there are ten Filipino scholars taking their PhD degrees at top Korean universities while Koreans are also pursuing their masteral programs here," Dr. Diaz said as part of the project. (KT)

Photo: AGRICULTURAL GENOMICS RESEARCH CENTER. The two-story University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) Agricultural Genomics Research Center (AGRC) established through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) under the project titled “Capacity-Building for Higher Education and the Establishment of Agricultural Genomics Research Center at the University of the Philippines Los Baños” with a grant of USD 14.95 million inaugurated on September 21, 2026. The ground flood houses the administration and session halls while the second floor houses the state-of-the-art equipment for genome-based research. (Photo by Zen Trinidad)

19/09/2026

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12/09/2026

P136.2-M BBMP fund to benefit 3.4K scholars, 681 barangays in Laguna

Zen Trinidad I September 12, 2026

CALAMBA CITY-The Bawat Barangay Makikinabang Program (BBMP) will provide PHP 136.2 million in financial assistance to 3,405 scholars and 681 barangays across Laguna, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto announced during a distribution ceremony.

Under the program, each scholar will receive PHP 20,000 in direct financial aid, while each barangay will get PHP 100,000 for local public service projects.

Recto, together with Governor Sol Aragones, led the ceremonial turnover of funds to mayors and Liga ng mga Barangay (LnB) presidents from Laguna’s 24 municipalities and six cities on Friday (Sep 11) at the Laguna Sports Complex in Santa Cruz town.

“Gusto po ng Pangulo (PBBM) na mas ilapit ang programa at serbisyo ng gobyerno sa inyo, na magsimula sa barangay,” Recto said, citing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to bring government services closer to the people starting at the barangay level.

The Executive Secretary emphasized that the funds, sourced from the Office of the President, are entrusted directly to barangay officials as frontliners in delivering basic services to constituents.

He also relayed President Marcos’ call for local officials to identify at least five additional graduating students who might drop out due to financial constraints, saying the PHP 20,000 assistance aims to ensure their college completion.

Recto noted that Laguna remains the country’s top economic contributor among provinces. Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data showed the province posted a PHP 1.08-trillion share in the national gross domestic product (GDP) in 2024, the highest among the 82 provinces.

Recto reported that since President Marcos assumed office, four new economic zones have been established in Laguna, generating more than 9,000 jobs.

In support of Governor Aragones’ healthcare program, Recto pledged to endorse to the President the request for additional ambulances beyond the province’s current 30 units, citing Laguna’s growing population.

PSA census data showed Laguna’s population at 3,687,345 in 2024, up from 3,382,193 in 2020. (RC)

Photo : BBMP FUND DISTRIBUTION IN LAGUNA. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and Laguna Governor Sol Aragones lead the ceremonial distribution of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Bawat Barangay Makikinabang Program (BBMP) funds to local government units from Laguna’s 24 municipalities and six cities on September 11, 2026, at the Laguna Sports Complex in Santa Cruz. Calamba City, which ranked first in the province’s competitive index and sixth overall among component cities nationwide, received PHP 10.8 million for its 54 barangays. Representing Calamba City are Mayor Roseller H. Rizal and Liga ng mga Barangay President Eduardo Silva (with eyeglasses). (Contributed photo from the Governor’s Office)

08/09/2026

Gov. Sol orders public posting of medicines, supplies in all district hospitals

Zen Trinidad I September 8, 2026

CALAMBA CITY - To clear uncertainty over the availability of medicines in public health facilities, Governor Sol Aragones has ordered the posting of a complete list of medicines and supplies available at all district hospitals in Laguna.

Through a FB livestream on Monday (Sep 7), Gov. Sol issued the order during her visit to the Dr. J.P. Rizal Memorial District Hospital in Calamba City. Laguna Provincial Health Office Head Dr. Odilon Inoncillo and Dr. James Lee Ho joined the visit.

Posting the lists, particularly along the way to the Emergency Room and Hospital Pharmacy, is a simple but meaningful step that will help patients and visitors easily see what medicines are in stock and ready for use.

"Do not buy hastily and do not buy outside on impulse," Governor Aragones advised the public. "More often than not, the medicine or supplies prescribed to you are available right here at the hospital pharmacy - free of charge - so there is no need to spend your own money elsewhere."

Gov. Aragones acknowledged certain medicines run out due to high patient volume. The directive to all district hospital chiefs to submit a list of the most commonly requested medicines and supplies, will identify priority re-stocking.

"Let's just solve this, slowly but surely," the Governor said emphasizing her commitment to steadily improve, develop, and transform the province’s public health facilities and services for the benefit of every Lagunense.

While posting lists may seem like a small measure, it marks a significant step toward greater transparency and accountability. It forms part of Governor Aragones’ broader commitment to fix gaps in the system - particularly in public and district hospitals - and to ensure that government programs truly serve the people they are meant to serve. (RC)

Photos from Gob. Sol Aragones FB page

02/09/2026

Laguna scores first free chemotherapy treatment success

Zen Trinidad I September 2, 2026

A Calamba surgeon who spent his career caring for others has become the first official graduate of Laguna’s Free Chemotherapy Program-a milestone that turns a provincial promise into living proof that hope need not depend on wealth or status.

A doctor becomes a patient

Dr. Norberto Arambulo, a general surgeon from Calamba City, knew the cost of cancer care better than most: the equipment, the long sessions, the financial weight that can crush a family. When he was diagnosed with lymphoma-a blood cancer that begins in the lymphocytes, the white blood cells that help fight infection-he initially sought treatment at a private facility.

But when he heard about the Free Chemotherapy Program launched by the Provincial Government of Laguna under Governor Sol Aragones, he hesitated. “I know how much these costs. I know how difficult it is to make something like this happen,” Dr. Arambulo said. “How could treatment that commands such high fees in private institutions truly be free?”

In time, he saw the sincerity behind the program and chose to enroll through the provincial government’s health services.

History made on September 1, 2026

On September 1, 2026, Dr. Arambulo became the very first official graduate of Laguna’s Free Chemotherapy Program. His completion marks more than a personal victory; it is evidence that a public health promise, when pursued with integrity, can change lives.

“Do not be afraid, and do not lose hope,” he now tells his fellow Lagunenses. “No matter who you are, or which town or city you come from, you have a place to turn to. You have access to quality care that is truly free for all.”

Gratitude for a team that cared

Dr. Arambulo expressed deep gratitude to Governor Sol Aragones and the entire Provincial Government-not only for conceiving the initiative, but for seeing it through with compassion and follow-through.

He also thanked the medical team behind his care: the oncologists who guided his treatment, the nurses who always had time to listen, the hospital staff who treated him with kindness, and every person who walked alongside him through each session. Even in the most tiring and painful moments, he said, he knew he was not fighting alone.

Just the beginning

His story is only the beginning. Soon there will be a second graduate, then a third, and many more to come as the province continues to expand and improve its healthcare services. Governor Aragones’ promise remains clear: “Hanggang posible at kayang gawing libre para sa mga Lagunense, dapat ibigay ng libre. Pera ito ng taong bayan na ibinabalik ko lang sa inyo.”

For as long as Governor Sol remains at the provincial capitol, Dr. Arambulo believes Laguna is in good hands-not only in health and welfare, but in governance itself, anchored by the mission of a Gobyernong May Solusyon. (RC)

Source: Laguna PIO

01/09/2026

Free healthcare on wheels: Laguna’s ‘Klinika ni Gob’ bus to visit towns starting September

Zen Trinidad I September 1, 2026

CALAMBA CITY -Laguna residents will soon enjoy free medical examinations, lab tests, medicines, and legal assistance right in their communities through the provincial government’s new Klinika ni Gob Mobile Clinic.

Gov. Sol Aragones showcased the specialized medical bus on Tuesday, detailing the services available on board:
• Free doctor consultations and prescription medicines
• Diagnostic laboratory tests, ECG, X-ray, and ultrasound
• Dental checkups and visual acetic acid examinations
• On-site legal services and document processing for medical and burial assistance

"Kami na mismo ang pupunta sa inyo para maranasan niyo ang tulong mula sa kapitolyo," Aragones stated, noting that the provincial government will continue expanding its public-welfare programs.

The mobile clinic officially rolls out this September, kicking off in San Pablo City before visiting other towns and cities across Laguna.(RC)

28/08/2026

Laguna shifts ‘Iskolar’ cash aid to Landbank ATM system

Zen Trinidad I August 28, 2026

CALAMBA CITY- The Provincial Government of Laguna (PGL) has officially launched an automated teller machine (ATM)-based payout system in partnership with the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) to streamline the distribution of the “Iskolar ng Laguna” grants.

The province-wide rollout began on August 26 at the Laguna Sports Complex in Barangay Bubukal, where thousands of student beneficiaries from San Pablo City received their cash grants.

Governor Sol Aragones led the launch of the digitized disbursement system, while Provincial Administrator Atty. Nathalie Irene Velasquez and Assistant Provincial Administrator Carina Macalos conducted orientations for the recipients.

According to provincial officials, transitioning to an ATM-based method aims to make financial aid distribution faster, safer, and more organized across all districts. To provide immediate convenience during the initial rollout, scholars were able to withdraw their allowances on-site via LANDBANK Mobile ATM unit.

The staggered distribution continued on August 27 for scholars from Calauan, Victoria, Alaminos, Rizal, Nagcarlan, and Liliw, followed by Cavinti, Pagsanjan, and Santa Cruz on August 28. Payouts across the province will run until September 16.

Around 25,000 provincial scholars are slated to receive PHP 12,000 each under the current cycle. Aragones noted that the provincial administration plans to further increase the grant amount to help students keep up with the rising costs of higher education. (RC)

24/08/2026

Laguna empowers more youth as information defenders

Zen Trinidad I August 24, 2026

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna -Nearly 1,800 young Lagunenses from the Third and Fourth Districts gathered at the Laguna Sports Complex on August 22 for the Laguna Youth Patrollers (LYP) Batch 2 Onboarding Program, a Provincial Government of Laguna (PGL) initiative led by Governor Sol Aragones to train youth advocates against fake news and misinformation.

According to Provincial Information Officer Danilo Lucas in a message Monday, the onboarding program was designed to equip participants with practical skills in responsible storytelling, accurate news gathering, and ethical information dissemination-positioning them as frontline defenders of truth in their communities.

Lucas said Governor Aragones’ administration has framed the LYP as part of a broader push to strengthen media literacy and combat the spread of false narratives that can undermine public trust and local governance.

“Mahalaga ang tamang impormasyon sa paglalapat ng istorya at paghahatid ng tamang balita,” Lucas echoed LYP Chairman Doland Castro, a former ABS-CBN reporter and spokesperson for Governor Aragones, underscoring the program’s core message that accuracy and truth must anchor all community reporting.

Sessions highlighted how responsible storytelling requires verifying sources, cross-checking facts, and understanding the social impact of shared information-skills especially critical in an era of viral misinformation.

The event drew senior provincial and media leaders, including: Provincial Administrator Atty. Nathalie Irene Velasquez; LYP Chairman Doland Castro; LYP President Bryan Guarnes; Former Luisiana Vice Mayor Luibic Jacob; Third District Board Member Angelica Jones Alarva; Representatives from the Youth Development Affairs Office and; Veteran media practitioners and resource speakers Julius Segovia and Noel Alamar.

Lucas added, “Their presence signaled strong institutional support for building a youth-led network capable of promoting credible information across Laguna’s municipalities.”