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Tutok Probinsya, 89. 7 RVFM, 3F JIDCAR Complex, Can-abong, Leyte (2025)

05/10/2025

𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗮𝘄𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗷𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝘂𝘀𝗵 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗿 𝗜𝘀𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻

𝘚𝘪𝘹 𝘭𝘢𝘸𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘨𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘤𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘚𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘳 𝘐𝘴𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨-𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘥𝘶𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺.

𝗔 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲

BORONGAN CITY — A government closer to home may soon become reality for Eastern Samareños as six Samar lawmakers, led by House Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan, push for the creation of a Samar Island Region (SIR), a bold initiative to fast-track growth across the island’s long-neglected eastern coast.

Libanan, who hails from Eastern Samar, together with Eastern Samar Lone District Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales, filed House Bill No. 4218, seeking to separate Samar Island from Region VIII (Eastern Visayas) and make it a distinct administrative region.

“This is not just an administrative measure — this is a matter of justice,” Libanan declared. “For centuries, Samar has been left behind despite its enormous potential.

The [SIR] will finally allow Samarnons to oversee their own development, with government truly within reach of our people,” he said.

Once enacted, the proposed SIR will become the Philippines’ 19th administrative region, bringing national government offices and services directly to Samar Island’s more than 1.9 million residents.

Joining Libanan and Gonzales in the measure are Samar 1st District Rep. Stephen James Tan, Samar 2nd District Rep. Reynolds Michael Tan, Northern Samar 1st District Rep. Niko Raul Daza, and Northern Samar 2nd District Rep. Edwin Marino Ongchuan.

𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵

Currently, all three provinces — Samar, Eastern Samar, and Northern Samar — fall under Region VIII, where most regional offices are located in Tacloban City, Leyte.

For many Eastern Samarenos and the rest of Samarnons, this means traveling far just to process documents, access national agencies, or join government programs.

The proposed Samar Island Region aims to change that by establishing a regional center within the island, ensuring faster public services and programs designed around Samar’s needs from disaster resilience to tourism and livelihood development.

The creation of a new region would bring closer and more focused governance for Samar Island communities, allowing programs and services to be tailored to their unique needs.

It would also open doors for greater economic empowerment and investment opportunities, particularly in coastal towns that have long been left behind.

Alongside this, the measure aims to enhance social and human development through improved access to education, healthcare, and livelihood programs.

It also seeks to strengthen political representation by giving Samarnons a unified voice in national affairs and ensuring that their concerns are directly heard and addressed at the regional level.

𝗔𝗻 𝗜𝘀𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹, 𝗬𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗲𝗳𝘁 𝗕𝗲𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗱

Samar Island, the third-largest island in the Philippines, is made up of Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, and Samar (formerly Western Samar).

Despite its natural beauty and rich history, the island continues to struggle with underdevelopment.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (2023), Samar Island’s average poverty incidence stands at 23.8 percent, among the highest in the country.

The lawmakers believe that with SIR, Samar Island can finally take charge of its own growth, attract investors, and build infrastructure that directly benefits Samarnons.

“Creating a separate Samar Island Region is about giving our people what they deserve — real access to government, faster development, and a stronger future for the next generation,” the authors said.

𝗔 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗲

The bill’s authors emphasize that establishing SIR is not just about governance but empowering communities to chart their own course toward inclusive growth.

They also highlight Samar’s deep historical significance, being the site of Magellan’s first landfall and a cradle of Filipino resistance during the Spanish and American occupations.

While the proposal faces challenges such as higher administrative costs and the need for political unity among leaders, the authors strongly believe that the creation of SIR is both a vision of progress and a symbol of pride for every Samarnon.

| 𝗕𝗠𝗔

01/10/2025

𝟳 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱, 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻, 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗲𝗯𝘂 𝘁𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝟲.𝟵 𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗸𝗲

At least seven people, including a pregnant woman, were confirmed dead in Yolanda Village, Barangay Pulambato in Bogo, Cebu, after a powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck late Tuesday night, September 30, 2025.

Authorities reported that several homes collapsed and some residents were trapped under debris as the ground shook violently across northern Cebu.

Rescue teams, composed of local disaster response units, police, and volunteers, rushed to the affected area overnight to search for survivors and assist injured residents.

Survivors recounted scenes of panic as families scrambled to safety when concrete walls and rooftops gave way.

Emergency medical teams have been deployed to attend to those injured, while temporary shelters are being set up for displaced families.
City officials have urged residents to remain vigilant as aftershocks continue to be felt in the region.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has warned that strong aftershocks are possible in the coming days.

Meanwhile, the local government is coordinating with national agencies to provide relief assistance and assess the extent of structural damage in the affected communities. | 𝗕𝗠𝗔

📷 Rowena Capistrano

26/09/2025

𝗧𝗨𝗧𝗢𝗞 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗕𝗜𝗡𝗦𝗬𝗔 𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗟

𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀-𝗼𝗻 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽: 𝗚𝗼𝘃. 𝗘𝘃𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

There is a saying that “the strongest storms make the best sailors.” The same can be said of leadership. Tougher challenges shape and reveal the best leaders.

For Eastern Samar, Severe Tropical Storm Opong became more than just a natural disaster; it became a gauge of leadership under Governor Ralph Vincent “RV” Evardone.

𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝗠𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽

As Opong loomed and battered parts of the country, Eastern Samareños were closely watching their young governor.

They had their own preparations to worry about, but they were also measuring how their leader would respond to the looming threat.

In the aftermath, many observers concluded that Evardone showed he was fit for the job, not by mere words, but through action.

𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲

The governor ensured that relief goods were ready, coordinated with agencies, and more importantly, went personally to areas projected to be hardest hit by the storm.

This hands-on approach reflected not just leadership by authority, but leadership by presence. His regular updates on social media provided timely and reliable information to thousands, both inside and outside the province.

In an era where misinformation spreads quickly, his use of digital platforms underscored his understanding of the importance of accurate and accessible public information.

While the storm’s winds were not as devastating as feared, the preparation displayed by the provincial government was commendable.

Even in the wee hours of the night, the governor was on the ground, checking conditions and ensuring that responses were immediate.

This kind of visible, proactive leadership reassures people during moments of uncertainty.

𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗲𝘀

Credit must also be given to the local government units through their mayors, the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Office of Civil Defense, and the offices of Eastern Samar Congressman Christopher Gonzales and House Minority Leader Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan.

Their coordinated disaster preparations and mitigation efforts contributed to the relatively smooth handling of Opong.

Preemptive evacuations, particularly in coastal areas, showed the government’s growing capacity to save lives through foresight.

According to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), 8,505 individuals were evacuated across the province—an encouraging sign of improved readiness.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝗼𝗻-𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲

But while government agencies did their part, some challenges remain.

The sea mishaps reported during the storm were preventable.

Individuals who defied advisories from PAGASA and the Coast Guard put themselves and others at risk.

In Guiuan, for instance, some continued to sail despite clear warnings, endangering passengers.

In Maydolong, five fisherfolk remain missing after venturing out to sea despite storm signals already raised.

While their economic concerns are understandable, the priority should have been safety. Disasters are unpredictable, and no livelihood is worth a life.

𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

Eastern Samar sits along the country’s typhoon belt and will continue to face storms in the future.

This reality demands both responsive governance and responsible citizenship. Leadership, as shown by Governor Evardone, sets the tone.

But preparation is not just the government’s business. It is a responsibility that belongs to everyone.

𝗧𝗼𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗿

If storms make stronger sailors, then perhaps Opong has made Eastern Samar stronger, not only by testing its leaders but also by reminding its people of the shared duty to prioritize safety above all.

| 𝗕𝗠𝗔

26/09/2025

𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗿 𝗜𝘀𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝗢𝗽𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱

Borongan City, Eastern Samar — Samar Island is no longer under any Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) lifted all warnings in its latest bulletin issued at 5:00 p.m. Friday, September 26.

As of the 5:00 p.m. advisory, the center of Severe Tropical Storm Opong was estimated over the coastal waters of Santa Cruz, Occidental Mindoro, based on data from the Busuanga Doppler Weather Radar.

The system was moving west-northwest at 35 kilometers per hour with maximum sustained winds of 110 km/h near the center and gusts reaching up to 150 km/h.

While Opong has shifted its impact toward Bicol, Southern Luzon, and Metro Manila, it left significant traces across Eastern Samar where it made its first landfall in San Policarpo at around 11:30 p.m. on September 25.

𝗦𝗲𝗮 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗽 𝗶𝗻 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝘂𝗮𝗻

Six individuals, including a pregnant woman, were rescued off the shores of Sulangan, Guiuan, after their small motorized banca capsized amid rough seas and strong winds while the storm lingered over Eastern Samar.

The group was en route to Homonhon Island when their vessel was battered by huge waves.

All six survivors are currently recuperating at the Felipe Abrigo Memorial Hospital (FAMH) in Guiuan.

Meanwhile, five fishermen from Maydolong remain missing after failing to return home since September 23.

The fishing boat, identified as Johnbert, went out to sea at around 3:00 p.m. but has not been sighted since.

The missing individuals were identified as Albert Tating, Birbie Calosar, Harold Cris Buenafe, Ricky Bajdo, and Rembert Versoza, all residents of Barangay 4, Maydolong.

Governor Ralph Vincent “RV” Evardone has already sought assistance from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region VIII for air assets to aid ongoing search and rescue operations.

Lilia Bajado, wife of one of the missing fishermen, appealed to nearby coastal communities and island residents to immediately coordinate with families, the Maydolong local government, or authorities should they find any trace of the missing men.

𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲

In another response effort, more than 100 stranded students from Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) Borongan Campus were given free transportation to their hometowns through the joint initiative of Governor Evardone, Eastern Samar Congressman Christopher Sheen Gonzales, and House Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-list Representative Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan.

Additional vehicles, including a coaster bus, were mobilized to ensure safe passage for students bound for both the northern and southern parts of the province.

Governor Evardone expressed gratitude to the lawmakers for their prompt support in addressing the students’ needs.

𝗘𝘃𝗮𝗰𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀

Preemptive evacuations were earlier conducted in coastal communities across Northern Eastern Samar.

According to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), 8,505 individuals were evacuated, or about 2,556 families, with most already assumed to have returned to their homes.

While the PDRRMO has yet to release a consolidated damage report, officials expect minor damage to properties and agriculture, particularly in northern municipalities.

𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘅𝗶𝘁 𝗣𝗔𝗥 𝗧𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗿𝗼𝘄

PAGASA said Opong is expected to move toward the West Philippine Sea tonight and may re-intensify into a typhoon within 12 hours. On its forecast track, the storm will exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by tomorrow afternoon, September 27. | 𝗕𝗠𝗔

26/09/2025

𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟬𝟬 𝗘𝗦𝗦𝗨 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗧𝘆𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗢𝗽𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗽 𝗵𝗼𝗺𝗲

Borongan City, Eastern Samar — More than 100 students of the Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) Borongan Campus who were stranded after Typhoon Opong disrupted public transport have been assured of a safe trip home through the assistance of the provincial government and allied offices.

Governor Ralph Vincent (RV) Evardone immediately acted on the concern, mobilizing the Provincial Government of Eastern Samar to provide free transportation for the stranded students.

Four vans and one coaster bus were deployed to bring students safely back to their hometowns in the northern and southern part of the province.

The initiative was carried out in close coordination with House of Representatives Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-list Representative Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan and Eastern Samar Lone District Representative Christopher Sheen Gonzales.

Through their joint efforts, another coaster bus was made available to ferry students to their respective hometowns, expanding the transport capacity for those who wished to return home.

In total, more than 100 boarders from both the northern and southern municipalities of Eastern Samar were able to benefit from the emergency transport service.

To recall with, the ESSU administration announced the suspension of classes and work across its seven campuses from September 25 to 26, in compliance with national and local declarations.

Students and personnel were strongly advised to remain in safe shelters, while those living in coastal communities were urged to move to safer areas away from the threat of storm surges.

Governor Evardone emphasized that the measure reflects the provincial government’s commitment to protect the welfare of the youth, particularly in times of calamity.

“Ini nga inisyatiba nagpapakita hin tinuod nga pag-ataman para ha kabataan. Ha bisan ano nga sitwasyon, labi na ha panahon hin kalamidad, prioridad an seguridad ngan kaupayan han aton mga estudyante,” he said in a statement.

(This initiative shows genuine concern for the youth. In any situation, especially during times of calamity, the safety and welfare of our students remain the top priority.)

The coordinated effort highlighted the importance of solidarity among leaders and institutions in ensuring the safety of students during emergencies.

| 𝗕𝗠𝗔

26/09/2025

𝟳 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗲𝗱, 𝟱 𝗳𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗸𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝗢𝗽𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗿

(Updated)

Borongan City, Eastern Samar – September 26 — Search and rescue operations continue in Eastern Samar after 12 individuals went missing at the height of Typhoon Opong.

Seven have been rescued, while five fisherfolk from Maydolong town remain unaccounted for, according to the latest situational report of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) headed by Engr. Thomas Campomanes.

𝗕𝗼𝗮𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘇𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝘂𝗮𝗻 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀

Seven residents of Homonhon Island, most of them from Brgy. Csnawayon, in Guiuan were reported missing after their pump boat capsized in open waters due to strong waves on September 25.

They were identified as Jonathan Macabenta, Marjorie Ballayog, Jeffrey Ballayog, Jeade Badoc, Jaypee Samarro, Ella Garado, a pregnant woman from Barangay Casuguran, and a child, James Benedict Badoc.

Despite Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1 being raised over the province, the group set out to sea early Thursday morning.

The Coast Guard Eastern Samar had earlier issued a Notice to Mariners (NOTAM) on September 24, prohibiting all sea vessel travel within its area of responsibility.

One of the survivors said their boat departed from mainland Guiuan between 6 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. bound for Canawayon, Homonhon Island.

Survivors recounted that Jonathan became separated while seeking help, but all six were later rescued off the coast of Barangay Sulangan, Guiuan.

They are now receiving medical treatment at Felipe Abrigo Memorial Hospital.

Governor Ralph Vincent “RV” Evardone confirmed their recovery, while Guiuan Mayor Analiza Kwan extended support to the victims.

𝗙𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴

Meanwhile, five fishermen from Maydolong have yet to be found after venturing out to sea at the onset of the storm. They were identified as Elbert Tating, 45; Berbie Calosar, 42; Harold Cris Buenafe, 28; Ricky Bajado, 39; and Rembert Versoza, 41.

Governor Evardone has sought assistance from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region VIII to bolster search and rescue operations for the missing fishermen.

𝗣𝗔𝗚𝗔𝗦𝗔 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀

As of 8 a.m. Friday, PAGASA reported that the center of Severe Tropical Storm Opong was located over the coastal waters of Mandaon, Masbate.
TCWS No. 2 remains hoisted over the northern towns of San Policarpo, Oras, Arteche, Jipapad, Maslog, Dolores, Can-avid, and Taft, while the rest of Eastern Samar is under TCWS No. 1.

The weather bureau also issued warnings of rough seas, with waves reaching up to 2.5 meters along the seaboards of Surigao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, and the remaining coasts of Palawan and the Visayas.

Mariners of motorbancas and similar vessels were advised to avoid sailing, as coastal waters remain dangerous to small watercrafts.

PAGASA further urged the public, especially those traveling by sea and air, to avoid unnecessary risks.

| 𝗕𝗠𝗔

26/09/2025

𝗧𝘆𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗻 𝗢𝗽𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝟱𝟰,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗶𝗻 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗿; 𝗳𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴

Borongan City, Eastern Samar – September 26 – Governor Ralph Vincent “RV” Evardone reported that Typhoon Opong caused widespread disruptions in the province, including a temporary blackout, mass evacuations, and reports of missing fishermen.

𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗿𝘂𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

As of 2 a.m. Friday, the entire province experienced a blackout. Power was gradually restored in many areas by 9 a.m.

𝗔𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝘃𝗮𝗰𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

According to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), 15,882 families, or 54,515 individuals, were affected by the storm. A total of 2,556 families (8,508 individuals) sought shelter in evacuation centers.

In San Policarpo, 241 families who earlier sought shelter in evacuation centers have already returned to their homes, while Maslog reported 1,970 evacuees, the second-highest number in the province, and Arteche recorded the highest displacement with 2,002 individuals seeking refuge in evacuation centers.

No flooding or damages to houses, agriculture, livestock, and poultry were reported as of press time.

𝗦𝗲𝗮 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀

Six individuals from Canawayon, Homonhon Island, Guiuan, went missing after their boat capsized mid-sea due to strong waves. Despite PAGASA raising Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 in Eastern Samar, the group left the island before the incident occurred.

Those rescued were identified as Jonathan Macabenta, Marjorie Ballayog, Jeade Badoc, Jaypee Samarro, James Benedict Badoc and Ella Garado, a pregnant woman from Barangay Casuguran. They were rushed to Felipe Abrigo Memorial Hospital (FAMH) in Guiuan, with Guiuan Mayor Analiza Kwan extending support.

Meanwhile, five fishermen from Maydolong remain missing after going fishing at the onset of the typhoon. They were identified as:
• Elbert Tating, 45
• Berbie Calosar, 42
• Harold Cris Buenafe, 28
• Ricky Bajado, 39
• Rembert Versoza, 41

Governor Evardone has sought assistance from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region VIII to aid in the search and rescue operations.

𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Eastern Samar District Engineering Office temporarily closed the Wright–Taft–Borongan road section on Thursday due to heavy rains that posed possible landslide risks.

The closure was lifted on Friday, September 26.

𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Engr. Thomas Campomanes said the PDRRMO continues to monitor the weather situation while keeping the Emergency Operations Center active.

Relief goods have been prepositioned for distribution to affected families.

Governor Evardone assured residents that the provincial government remains on alert and ready to respond as the PDRRMC maintains a blue-to-red alert status.| 𝗕𝗠𝗔

24/09/2025

𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗿 𝗴𝘂𝘃 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲-𝘄𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗸𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺

Borongan City, Eastern Samar — Governor Ralph Vincent “RV” Evardone on Wednesday declared a province-wide suspension of work and classes for Thursday, September 25, as Severe Tropical Storm Opong intensifies and moved closer to the Visayas and Luzon.

The suspension order covers all public offices and schools across Eastern Samar, in line with precautionary measures recommended by both regional and provincial disaster councils.

𝗣𝗔𝗚𝗔𝗦𝗔 𝗕𝘂𝗹𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻: 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝘁 𝗻𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘆𝗮𝘀

In its 11 p.m. Tropical Cyclone Bulletin No. 6, state weather bureau PAGASA said the eye of Opong was estimated at 595 kilometers east of Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, or 660 kilometers east of Maasin City, Southern Leyte.

The weather disturbance packs maximum sustained winds of 100 kilometers per hour near the center, with gustiness reaching up to 125 kph.

Signal No. 2 has been hoisted in the northern towns of San Policarpo, Oras, Jipapad, and Arteche in Eastern Samar, as well as in Northern Samar.

Meanwhile, Signal No. 1 is raised in the rest of Eastern Samar, Samar Province, Biliran, and parts of northern Leyte including Tacloban City.

Several areas in Luzon, including Quezon Province, Rizal, Laguna, parts of Batangas, Marinduque, Oriental Mindoro, Romblon, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, and Masbate, are also under Signal No. 1.

𝗦𝘂𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

Governor Evardone explained that the suspension was anchored on the recommendation of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC), which earlier called for the suspension of work and classes across Samar Island.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), in its third quarterly meeting, also pushed for the suspension, citing the storm’s potential impacts on communities, infrastructure, and livelihood.

“I urge everyone in Eastern Samar to take the necessary precautions and make preparations,” Evardone said, emphasizing that northern municipalities face the highest risk of a direct hit.

𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁

Provincial Agriculturist Virgilio Capon advised farmers to harvest their crops early to prevent losses should the storm bring heavy rains and strong winds.

The Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, and Bureau of Fire Protection all confirmed that their forces and equipment are on standby for emergency response.

Representatives from national agencies which include the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO), and the National Food Authority (NFA) also outlined their readiness measures and coordination protocols during the disaster council meeting.

𝗟𝗚𝗨 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: 𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Agda declared a similar suspension of classes and work in the capital city, urging residents to closely follow official advisories from the local government and PAGASA.

In Balangiga, Mayor Dana Flynch De Lira issued her own suspension order.

Meanwhile, Dolores Mayor Zaldy Carpeso said that his municipality has already prepared food packs for families who may be affected by the storm.

The local government of San Julian also convened its Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) to ensure preparedness and mitigate possible impacts.

𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗱; 𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴

In a radio interview with DZMM, Governor Evardone assured the public that relief goods such as food packs have already been prepositioned in northern towns that are most likely to bear the brunt of the storm.

He also warned that if Opong brings heavy rainfall as forecasted, flooding is highly possible in low-lying areas and riverine communities, particularly in the northern municipalities.

| 𝗕𝗠𝗔

20/09/2025

𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴. 𝗟𝗶𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗕𝗶𝗿𝘁𝗵𝗱𝗮𝘆

Minority Leader of House of Representatives Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan (4Ps Partylist), celebrates his birthday today, September 20.

Widely regarded as a performing lawmaker, Libanan has consistently championed measures that strengthen social protection, promote inclusive development, and ensure better opportunities for Eastern Samareños and the whole Filipino community as a whole.

Under his leadership, the minority bloc in Congress has remained constructive and principled, balancing support for national priorities with firm checks and accountability.

Colleagues and constituents alike laud Libanan for his tireless commitment and results-driven public service.

On his special day, supporters extend their warm greetings, wishing him continued strength, wisdom, and success in advancing the welfare of the people he serves.

19/09/2025

𝗚𝗼𝘃 𝗥𝗩 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀, 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗽𝗮𝘆𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝟮,𝟯𝟬𝟬 𝗯𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀

BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar — The provincial government of Eastern Samar released financial and livelihood assistance to 2,300 beneficiaries during a payout held on September 13, 2025, at the Capitol Gym in Borongan City, the first under the leadership of Governor Ralph Vincent RV Evardone.

A total of 1,200 college students from across the province received ₱3,000 each in educational aid under the Bulig Para Estudyante (BPE) program.

Initiated by former governor Ben Evardone, the BPE provides one-time cash assistance per semester to help needy but deserving students cover school expenses and other academic needs.

Meanwhile, 300 students received their wages as beneficiaries of the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES).

Implemented in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the program allows students to earn income through temporary work during vacation periods while gaining practical job experience.

Under the scheme, local government units cover 60 percent of the salary while DOLE shoulders the remaining 40 percent, although in some cases LGUs shoulder the entire amount.

In addition, 700 workers benefited from the Tulong Panghanapbuhay para sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program, which provides short-term employment such as community clean-ups and other public service activities.

The initiative aims to assist workers affected by poverty and underemployment.

Governor Evardone emphasized in vernacular that the provincial government’s efforts are anchored on the principle that “education and employment are the most important means to help the youth and their families rise from poverty.”

“These programs show Eastern Samar’s commitment to inclusive development, investing in the education of our youth and creating livelihood opportunities for families, which in turn strengthen the province’s human resources and contribute to long-term economic growth,” Evardone said.

The provincial government, through these initiatives, reaffirmed its commitment to prioritize the welfare of students and disadvantaged workers, ensuring that opportunities for education and employment continue to drive Eastern Samar’s fight against poverty.

| 𝗕𝗠𝗔

📷 ESPIO

18/09/2025

𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝗟𝗶𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿

The House minority bloc, now down to 27 members, has unanimously re-elected 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan as its leader in a caucus held shortly after Isabela Rep. Faustino “Bojie” Dy III was elected as the new Speaker on Wednesday.

Libanan, who has served as Minority Leader since the 19th Congress, continues in the same role he held during the 20th Congress under then-Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez of the 1st District of Leyte.

His reelection signals continuity for the bloc, which positions itself as the institutional counterbalance to the House supermajority.

Romualdez resigned from the speakership this week following controversies over alleged budget insertions and questionable flood control projects, issues that critics claim implicated several lawmakers.

His exit paved the way for Dy’s election with 253 votes, automatically aligning those legislators with the new majority coalition.

By contrast, the minority bloc is composed of lawmakers who abstained or withheld support for Dy’s election.

In keeping with House tradition, those abstaining are recognized as part of the minority.

𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝟯𝟬 𝘁𝗼 𝟮𝟳 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀

Under Romualdez’s leadership, the minority bloc counted 30 members.

That number has since shrunk to 27, with several names no longer in the roster, including Pampanga 4th District Rep. Anna York Bondoc, Cebu City 1st District Rep. Rachel del Mar, and AGAP Party-list Rep. Nikki Briones.

The bloc welcomed a new face, LPGMA Party-list Rep. Allan Ty, who previously belonged to the majority during Romualdez’s speakership.

𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗲

Libanan emphasized that the minority will continue to uphold its role as fiscalizer of the supermajority-dominated House. “Our task is to scrutinize legislation, watch over budget appropriations, and demand accountability, especially in projects that involve infrastructure and public funds,” he said in one of his public statements.

The minority bloc has consistently framed its values around integrity, transparency, and legislative competence—principles Libanan vowed to sustain as the House navigates politically turbulent times

𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗰

1. Arlene Bag-ao (Dinagat Islands, Lone District)
2. Edgar Erice (Caloocan City, 2nd District)
3. Cielo Krisel Lagman (Albay, 1st District)
4. Jesus Suntay (Quezon City, 4th District)
5. Audrey Kay Zubiri (Bukidnon, 3rd District)
6. Christopher Sheen Gonzales (Eastern Samar, Lone District)
7. Stephen James Tan (Samar, 1st District)
8. Reynolds Michael Tan (Samar, 2nd District)
9. Niko Raul Daza (Northern Samar, 1st District)
10. Leila De Lima (Mamamayang Liberal)
11. Jose Manuel Diokno (Akbayan)
12. Percival Cendaña (Akbayan)
13. Dadah Kiram Ismula (Akbayan)
14. Paolo Henry Marcoleta (SAGIP)
15. Jonathan Clement Abalos II (4Ps)
16. Presley De Jesus (PHILRECA)
17. Sergio Dagooc (APEC)
18. Antonio Tinio (ACT-Teachers)
19. Renee Louise Co (Kabataan)
20. Roberto Gerard Nazal Jr. (Bagong Henerasyon)
21. Jernie Jett Nisay (Pusong Pinoy)
22. Allan Ty (LPGMA)
23. Terry Ridon (Bicol Saro)
24. Elijah San Fernando (Kamanggagawa)
25. Arlyn Ayon (Swerte)
26. Iris Marie Montes (4K)
27. Marcelino Libanan (4Ps Party-list, Minority Leader)

| 𝗕𝗠𝗔

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