Mindoro Today, Direk Fuels Head Office, National Highway, Papandayan, Pinamalayan (2025)

08/07/2025

Arestado ang isang 30-anyos na babae sa isinagawang buy-bust operation nitong Lunes, Hulyo 7, 2025 sa Barangay Santo Niño, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro, kung saan nasamsam ang tinatayang 50 gramo ng hinihinalang shabu na nagkakahalaga ng ₱341,020.

Isinagawa ang operasyon ng Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Occidental Mindoro Provincial Office katuwang ang Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP-SAF), Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit ng Occidental Mindoro PPO, at Sablayan Municipal Police Station.

Kinilala ang suspek sa alyas na “Vrea,” isang walang trabaho at residente ng nasabing barangay.

Bukod sa 50.15 gramo ng hinihinalang shabu, nakuha rin mula sa suspek ang ilang drug paraphernalia.

Mahaharap ang suspek sa kasong paglabag sa Republic Act 9165 o ang Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

07/07/2025

EDITORIAL
Occidental Mindoro's P23.9M 'River Restoration' Income Ignites Questions Over Sand Mining Operations

The Provincial Government of Occidental Mindoro's recent disclosure of P23.9 million in "Sand and Gravel/Dredging Shares" distributed to local government units has unearthed questions about whether ongoing operations constitute legitimate river restoration or disguised commercial sand mining.

The Provincial Treasury Office announced that under Governor Eduardo Gadiano's leadership, the province distributed the funds to various municipalities and barangays for April and May 2025, with the Municipality of Mamburao receiving the largest share at P7.068 million.

PARADOX

What officials tout as transparency may instead reveal inconsistencies in the project's stated purpose.

Traditional river restoration projects are environmental rehabilitation efforts that typically require government investment rather than generate revenue.

"If this is purely restoration work, why are local governments receiving income shares?" asked environmental law experts familiar with mining regulations.

Under Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) administrative orders, sand and gravel extraction generates revenue only when classified as commercial activities subject to excise taxes, fees, and royalties.

The distribution breakdown shows the Municipality of Mamburao receiving P7.068 million, Barangay Talabaan getting P9.226 million, the Municipality of Sablayan obtaining P3.269 million, and various barangays receiving between P1.864 million and P571,000 each.

This revenue-sharing pattern follows the standard formula for commercial mineral extraction, with 40% typically going to the provincial government, 30% to the city or municipality, and 30% to the source barangay.

Government regulations clearly distinguish between restoration and commercial extraction.

Restoration projects typically involve environmental rehabilitation without profit motive, contractor expenses rather than government revenue, and focus on ecological improvement metrics rather than financial returns.

The presence of substantial revenue sharing suggests the operations may extend beyond restoration parameters into commercial territory.

The Provincial Treasury Office framed the disclosure as demonstrating "commitment to transparency and ensuring that revenues from natural resources are equitably shared with local communities."

However, the statement's focus on "revenues from natural resources" appears to contradict characterizations of the work as restoration rather than extraction.

Provincial officials have not yet issued a statement about the apparent discrepancy between the project's restoration mandate and its revenue-generating nature.

Local environmental groups have previously brought up fears about large-scale dredging operations in the province, particularly regarding potential impacts on marine ecosystems and fishing communities.

The substantial sums involved (nearly P24 million over just two months) suggest operations of such magnitude that may warrant closer scrutiny of environmental compliance and community impact.

Not only in Occidental Mindoro, people in Oriental Mindoro have also been calling for clear explanations of the specific scope of restoration versus commercial activities, environmental impact assessments and compliance measures, and long-term ecological goals versus short-term revenue objectives.

In fact, the revenue-sharing scheme being implemented in Occidental Mindoro is strikingly similar to the setup in Oriental Mindoro. This is one of the key reasons why Governor Bonz Dolor continues to defend and push for his own large-scale dredging and river restoration projects — citing not only environmental objectives but also the financial benefits the province and its barangays stand to gain.

Questions about how extractive industries operate under environmental restoration permits, and whether current regulatory frameworks adequately distinguish between legitimate rehabilitation and commercial exploitation, remain unanswered by both Dolor and Gadiano.

06/07/2025

Mindoro bishop calls for prayer, dialogue over mining ban reversal

A Catholic bishop has called for prayer and dialogue after the Supreme Court struck down a 25-year ban on large-scale mining in Occidental Mindoro province, warning the decision could threaten similar environmental protections.

Bishop Moises Cuevas of Calapan said in a pastoral letter that the high court's January ruling could set a precedent affecting a parallel ordinance in neighboring Oriental Mindoro province.

The Supreme Court declared the Occidental Mindoro ordinance void, saying it violated the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.

"This decision could plausibly be a precedent-setting move for the subsisting parallel local ordinance in Oriental Mindoro," Cuevas said in the pastoral letter.

The bishop referenced Pope Francis' 2015 environmental encyclical, saying the ruling "could also probably have destructive impacts for our shared mission ... on care for our common home."

Cuevas announced a "Dialogue Forum on the Mindoro Mining Moratorium" for July 10, 2025 at Bishop Cajandig's Conference Hall in Calapan City from 1pm to 5 pm.

He declared it a day of prayer, calling on clergy and religious communities to hold prayer services.

The bishop praised local officials who opposed mining operations but warned that political divisions could weaken unified resistance.

"Party-line affiliations and individual dispositions are at odds that weaken our desired end," Cuevas said.

Occidental Mindoro has been central to environmental debates, with officials and activists opposing large-scale mining they say threatens the province's biodiversity and marine ecosystems.

In Oriental Mindoro, a sand dredging operation in Gloria town has been met with resistance despite having the approval of Gov. Bonz Dolor.

Rep. Arnan Panaligan and Rep. Alfonso Umali Jr. of Oriental Mindoro, and Rep. Leody Tarriela of Occidental Mindoro have vowed to fight mining. The three congressmen are expected to re-file a mining-ban House bill at the 20th Congress.

Mindoro Island contains several protected areas and serves as habitat for marine species, making it a focus of conservation efforts.

"Sitting on the fence is not an option," Cuevas said, urging stakeholders to find common ground against mining operations.

06/07/2025

Efren ‘Bata’ Reyes, Django Bustamante to Headline 1st Mayor Teves 10-Ball Open in Naujan

Two of the biggest names in Philippine billiards — Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante — will grace the 1st Mayor Henry Joel C. Teves 10-Ball Open Tournament happening this July 18, 2025 at the Naujan Central Business District, Pinagsabangan 1.

Presented by True Masters Billiard & Sports Bar, the much-anticipated tournament kicks off at 9:00 AM, and is shaping up to be the biggest billiards showdown ever held in Naujan.

🎖️ PRIZE POOL:
🥇 Champion – ₱70,000
🥈 1st Runner-up – ₱30,000
🥉 2nd Runner-up – ₱20,000
🏅 3rd Place – ₱10,000
🏅 4th–7th Places – ₱5,000 each

This historic sports event is made possible through the initiative of Mayor Henry Joel C. Teves, as part of his ongoing thrust to promote sports development and youth engagement in Naujan.

📌 For registration and inquiries:
📲 Mr. Jones Bernard S. Mortel – 0949 391 1330
📲 Mr. Lagalag – 0963 294 5446

Don’t miss your chance to witness legendary cue masters and rising talents compete in a day of precision, passion, and world-class play.

06/07/2025

Hospitals Hold Off on Guarantee Letters as Unpaid Claims Soar

Some private hospitals in Batangas have suspended the acceptance of Guarantee Letters (GLs) issued under the government’s Medical Assistance for Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP), citing over ₱530 million in unpaid receivables.

The Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines Inc. (PHAPI) said that 43 hospitals, including one owed as much as ₱94 million, have yet to receive payment for services rendered—some claims dating back to last year.

In Mindoro, where GLs from politicians have long been a lifeline for indigent families, some hospitals have also implemented quiet policy shifts. Mindoro Today learned that several facilities now require 70-30 or 50-50 payment schemes (GL-cash), due to financial pressure from delayed reimbursements.

Hospital insiders say that prior to the elections, many facilities saw almost zero cash payments, as most patients relied solely on GLs.

The Department of Health has yet to respond to calls to expedite payments. Under the MAIFIP agreement, claims should be paid within 60 days, but many hospitals are now waiting for months—with no clear resolution.

With healthcare access at risk, the public and local leaders are urging the government to act before services are further disrupted.

06/07/2025

𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗿𝗼 𝗦𝗣 𝘁𝗼 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗻 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘀, 𝗗𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴

The 12th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Oriental Mindoro will kick off a series of marathon committee hearings starting tomorrow, July 7, to address two of the most urgent and controversial issues affecting the province: the recurring power crisis and the large-scale dredging and black sand mining operations.

Spearheading the hearings are the Committee on Laws, Ordinances and Legal Matters, chaired by Atty. Manny Buenaventura (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas), and the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, chaired by Board Member Anthony Yap (Lakas-CMD). The sessions will be streamed live on Facebook to promote transparency and public engagement.

Hearing Schedule:

Monday, July 7 – 10:00 a.m.
Topic: Power and energy situation in Oriental Mindoro
Invited Resource Persons: ORMECO, independent power producers (IPPs), Napocor, Transco, Department of Energy (DOE), LGUs, IBP, and other stakeholders.
Note: ORMECO is led by General Manager Humphrey Dolor, elder brother of Governor Humerlito “Bonz” Dolor.

Tuesday, July 8 – 10:00 a.m.
Topic: Large-scale dredging and black sand mining (Government agencies)
Invited Resource Persons: PNP, PCG, MARINA, DPWH, DENR, MGB, DILG, DOT, IBP, and others.

Tuesday, July 8 – 2:00 p.m.
Topic: Large-scale dredging and black sand mining (Private sector and stakeholders)
Invited Resource Persons: Southern Concrete Industries, China Harbor Engineering Co., San Miguel Aero City, San Miguel Holdings, Alamin, OM Media Group, Mindoro BioDiversity, and LGUs including Gloria.

Wednesday, July 9 – 10:00 a.m.
Topic: Large-scale dredging and black sand mining (LGUs and local communities)
Invited Resource Persons: Birds Nest Resources Corp., LGUs including Baco, and fisherfolk associations.

Governor Dolor has consistently pushed for and defended the river restoration project through large-scale dredging. However, scrutiny over the environmental and socio-economic impact of these operations continues to grow.

The current composition of the 12th Sangguniang Panlalawigan is expected to shape the legislative direction of the province in the coming years. In fact, during its inaugural session led by Vice Governor Atty. CA Jojo Perez, several key resolutions were passed—many of which run counter to the policy agenda of Gov. Dolor:

1. Revocation of the previous resolution by the 11th SP expressing support for large-scale sea dredging.

2. Immediate suspension of all sea dredging operations in the province.

3. Endorsement of the proposed bill converting the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Hospital into a regional hospital under the management of the Department of Health (DOH).

These early moves reflect a shifting balance of power in the provincial government and a growing divergence between the executive and legislative branches.

Composition of the 12th Sangguniang Panlalawigan

Grouped by Political Affiliation

Lakas-CMD
Anthony Yap (2nd District)

Mindoro Bago Sarili (MBS)
Jojo Perez – Vice Governor (Presiding Officer)
B**g Brucal (1st District)
RL Leachon (1st District)
Raja Barber – Interim PCL Representative

Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP)
Pau Umali (2nd District)
Atty. Manny Buenaventura (2nd District)

Lagtum Pasag – Indigenous Peoples Representative (no formal party affiliation but identified with the group of 2nd District Rep. Alfonso Umali Jr.)

Galing at Serbisyo para sa Mindoreño (GSM)
Faye Ilano (1st District)
Alelie Casubuan (1st District)
Ryan Arago (1st District)
Atty. Roland Ruga (2nd District)
Atty. Jom Dimapilis (2nd District)
Ralph Jonnel Recto – ABC Federation President
Jam Dolor – SK Federation President

The composition of the 12th Sangguniang Panlalawigan reveals an evenly matched board based on party affiliations and associations—creating what many observers view as a legislative deadlock. However, Vice Governor Atty. CA Jojo Perez, who presides over the SP and is affiliated with Mindoro Bago Sarili (MBS), holds the authority to cast a tie-breaking vote, effectively giving his bloc the upper hand in close decisions.

The upcoming committee hearings are expected to further reflect the shifting policy priorities of the current provincial board. Residents are encouraged to tune in, stay informed, and take part in these important public discussions.

05/07/2025

Gloria Officials Set Aside Differences, Unite for Inaugural Session of 17th Sangguniang Bayan

Despite holding separate oath-taking ceremonies last June 30, elected officials in the Municipality of Gloria came together on Friday, July 4, for the inaugural session of the 17th Sangguniang Bayan at the Batasang Pambayan Building.

Present during the session were Mayor Teresita "Tessie" Manahan Ong, Vice Mayor Wilfredo "Wil" Condesa, all members of the municipal council, department and section heads, and barangay captains from across the town.

While some netizens previously expressed disappointment on social media over the divided oath-taking events, Friday’s joint session offered a more hopeful sight. Photos from the town's official gazette showed the councilors, mayor, and vice mayor posing together, signaling civility and a willingness to collaborate despite political differences.

During the session, the local government reaffirmed its commitment to the Executive Agenda 2025–2028, which outlines five key governance pillars:

- Social Development
- Economic Empowerment
- Environment and Climate Resilience
- Infrastructure & Digital Governance
- Institutional Reform and Inclusive Governance

The inaugural session marked the symbolic beginning of cooperation between the executive and legislative branches under a common vision for a “Gloria na Malaya” — a Gloria that upholds opportunity, dignity, and transparent governance for all residents.

04/07/2025

Tubig Talino: A Healthy Drink, A Business in a Bottle

DOST-Mimaropa has introduced “Tubig Talino”—an iodine-fortified drinking water that aims to fight nutritional deficiencies while opening up a new income stream for Filipino entrepreneurs.

At just P35–P40 per 5 gallons, it's not only good for your body but good for business too. Could this smart water be your next big move?

Full story here:
https://mindorotoday.tv/2025/07/02/dost-mimaropa-rolls-out-tubig-talino-for-better-health-and-as-profitable-business/?fbclid=IwY2xjawLVNthleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHgTvGIF7zJ_uahpPuVnAnPVbTy_Rf4TMPAS3qo7HRpUY2MAD2U1InsyvIA9B_aem__WVsEcXnl9RA9Em4i4KJFQ

04/07/2025

₱45-M Worth of Medicine and Medical Supplies Delivered to Oriental Mindoro Central District Hospital

PINAMALAYAN, Oriental Mindoro — Patients at the Oriental Mindoro Central District Hospital (OMCDH) will soon benefit from a fresh supply of medicines and medical equipment amounting to ₱45 million, following a delivery made on Friday, July 4, 2025.

The province, under the leadership of Governor Humerlito "Bonz" A. Dolor, turned over the additional resources to boost the hospital’s capacity to serve patients in need—particularly those who continue to seek free treatment in public health facilities.

While all public hospitals in Oriental Mindoro operate under a no-billing policy, Dolor noted that many patients still face a lack of essential medicines.

Also present during the visit were Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Cielo Angela Ante and Pinamalayan Mayor Rodel Magsino. Governor Dolor likewise inspected the ongoing construction of OMCDH’s new three-story hospital building, which aims to further enhance the facility’s capacity.

The provincial government reiterated its commitment to responsive and compassionate healthcare, assuring residents that improving hospital services remains a top priority.

Photo source: OMCDH

04/07/2025

Power Moves Brewing as LMP-Oriental Mindoro Holds First Meeting in Pola

Pola, Oriental Mindoro — The mayors of Oriental Mindoro gathered yesterday for the first official meeting of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) – Oriental Mindoro Chapter, hosted by Pola Mayor Jennifer “Ina Alegre” Cruz, who currently serves as the interim president of the league.

In attendance were Mayor Richard Inciong (Victoria), Mayor Allan Roldan (Baco), Mayor Mike Malaluan (B**gabong), Mayor Ronnie Morada (Bansud), Mayor Robinhood Ylagan (Puerto Galera), Mayor Rodel Magsino (Pinamalayan), Mayor Nemmen Perez (Socorro), Mayor Tessie Ong (Gloria), Mayor Karen Miranda (San Teodoro) and Mayor Joel Teves (Naujan).

While the gathering focused on collaboration and municipal development, political watchers couldn’t help but notice the subtle maneuvering for the league’s presidency.

Mayor Ina Alegre, a veteran local chief executive and former actress, is seen as a strong contender. Her wide national network has long allowed her to secure projects from government agencies—an advantage the eight newly elected mayors could benefit from.

But another name making the rounds is Bansud Mayor Ronnie Morada, reportedly backed by 2nd District Congressman Alfonso “PA” Umali.

The silent but potentially decisive factor? The support of 1st District Representative Arnan C. Panaligan, a key figure in Lakas-CMD, whose endorsement may very well tip the balance.

The LMP-OrMin’s first meeting may be just the beginning of what could shape the future political landscape of the province.

Photos courtesy of Mayor Joel Teves

04/07/2025

New Trucks, New Hope for Mindoro Organic Farmers

The provincial government of Occidental Mindoro is set to distribute eight hauling trucks to organic farming associations across the province, aiming to boost sustainable agriculture and improve market access for local farmers. Spearheaded by Governor Eduardo B. Gadiano and the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist under Engineer Alrizza Zubiri, the initiative seeks to address long-standing logistical challenges faced by organic producers in transporting their goods from remote farms to public markets.

Beneficiaries include organic associations from Sablayan, Santa Cruz, Mamburao, Calintaan, Paluan, Magsaysay, San Jose, and Lubang. The program supports Republic Act 11511, which enhances government assistance for organic agriculture, aligning with national goals to reduce chemical use and promote eco-friendly farming practices. The vehicle turnover ceremony will take place soon at the Provincial Capitol Grounds in Mamburao.

03/07/2025

Mansalay Named Pilot Site of DSWD's LAWA at BINHI Program in MIMAROPA

MANSALAY, ORIENTAL MINDORO —
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has officially designated the municipality of Mansalay as the pilot site in the MIMAROPA region for its LAWA at BINHI Program, a high-impact national initiative aimed at strengthening local resilience to water scarcity and food insecurity.

On July 3, DSWD officials, together with key personnel from the municipal government, visited project implementation areas in Barangays Balugo, Bonbon, and Maliwanag under the agency’s MIMAROPA Experiential Learning program. The activity was held to observe on-ground preparations and facilitate knowledge-sharing among regional stakeholders.

The DSWD delegation was led by Assistant Regional Director for Operations Sheila Tapia, accompanied by SWADT Team Leader Severina Boongaling, Dilosanto Manalo from the Disaster Section, and Monaliza Martin from the Field Office. Representatives from other MIMAROPA provinces also participated in the learning exchange.

Acting Mayor and Vice Mayor Jose Ildefonso “Joel” Maliwanag personally joined the team despite the intermittent rains, expressing full support for the project’s rollout and taking time to interact with local beneficiaries at the sites.

“This initiative is crucial for our upland and rural barangays, where water access and food supply have been increasingly affected by climate-related events,” said Maliwanag. “We welcome this partnership with DSWD, and we are committed to making Mansalay a model for the rest of the region.”

Also present from the municipal government were MSWDO OIC Ishmylene Fernando, PESO Manager Allan Fabila, Municipal Agriculture Officer Jemale Fajutnao, and Public Information Officer Edmel Asehan.

A coordination luncheon followed at La Sersita Resort, where DSWD officials and municipal leaders discussed the rollout strategy and potential scale-up measures for the program. Mindoro Today was the lone media outfit present at the meeting.

About LAWA at BINHI

Project LAWA (Local Adaptation to Water Access) aims to build and rehabilitate water harvesting facilities such as small farm reservoirs in drought-prone areas, while Project BINHI (Breaking Insufficiency through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished) promotes sustainable farming practices, communal gardening, and the planting of disaster-resilient crops.

The nationwide rollout will reach 310 municipalities and 61 provinces, benefiting more than 140,000 families. It is implemented under the DSWD’s Risk Resiliency Program through Cash-for-Training and Work (RRP-CFTW).

With Mansalay as the pilot area, the municipality is expected to serve as a model site for effective and community-based implementation across the MIMAROPA region.

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