The Wednesday Herald

22/08/2025

Mt. Makiling’s groundwater conservation could get millions from tourist fees–study
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/mt-makilings-groundwater-conservation-could-get-millions-from-tourist-fees-study/

By Claire Bernadette A. Mondares, DOST-STII

A study found that local tourists’ willingness to pay (WTP) an additional fee for resorts in Calamba City and Los Baños, Laguna could generate up to P159.2 million which can be used to improve the conservation of the groundwater resources in Mt. Makiling.

In a study titled “Potential Contribution of Tourism for Groundwater Conservation in Mt. Makiling, Philippines”, published in the Philippine Journal of Science (PJS), researchers from the University of the Philippines Los Baños examined the potential benefits of capturing the mean (WTP) of P75 per visit, for a proposed ordinance requiring a water user fee.

“While water is generally considered a renewable resource, groundwater is a special case because its recharge rate is variable. It can be as short as days or as long as hundreds of years. In the case of Los Baños and Calamba, almost all resorts use groundwater, which they pump from the ground for their pools and bathrooms. They do not pay for groundwater based on the volume they consume. This is cheaper than if they source water from the water district, which they will pay on a cubic meter basis,” Dr. Margaret M. Calderon said in an interview with the DOST.

Dr. Calderon is the leader of a project funded by the Foreign-Assisted and Special Projects Service (FASPS) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Using an online contingent valuation (CV) survey, the researchers assessed the tourists’ awareness of water sources in Calamba and Los Baños and their willingness to pay for improved groundwater conservation.

Based on the study, a mean WTP of P75 was estimated. The water user fee can serve as an environmental fee that would be charged on top of existing resort entrance fees. The mean WTP was calculated from a model with bid amounts of P0, P10, P20, P30, P40, P50, P60, P70, P80, P100, P120, P140, P150, P160, P180, and P200 presented to the respondents of the study.

“It represents the amount that visitors are willing to pay to support water conservation efforts and the protection of Mt. Makiling, which supplies the groundwater and is heavily relied upon by the local tourism industry,” Dr. Vanessa M. Palma-Torres, one of the researchers, explained.

By multiplying the mean P75 by the three-year average number of resort visitors in Calamba, which has around 2,015,124 visitors per year, and 111,821 visitors per year for Los Banos, resort-based industries can generate up to P151.13 million and P8.39 million per year, respectively.

Under the CV scenario, this fee would be split, with 50 percent allocated to pool water quality maintenance and 50 percent to Mt. Makiling conservation.

Moreover, the team observed that the abundance of hot springs and hot groundwater sources in the area has led to the establishment of numerous resorts in Los Baños and Calamba City that take advantage of the natural hot water in their swimming pools and baths. However, the rapid growth in resorts has significantly impacted groundwater resources due to the wasteful use of water by many resorts.

Given the results of the study, researchers encourage local government units (LGUs) of Calamba City and Los Baños to enact policies. The research team has already presented the results of the study to the concerned LGUs and the DENR.

“We strongly encourage the LGUs to adopt and leverage the findings of our study. Our primary goal is to inform local policies through science-based evidence. While this study offers important initial insights, we are also proposing a follow-up water accounting and policy advocacy initiative. This will enable a more comprehensive understanding of the water system, from source to end-users, and help guide sustainable water management strategies. Ultimately, we hope to support both water conservation efforts and the long-term protection of Mt. Makiling, the main water source for the area,” Dr. Palma-Torres said.

On the other hand, another study conducted by Dr. Calderon’s team examined how resorts in Calamba City and Los Baños use water, and the conservation practices they employ. In another publication titled “Groundwater Use of the Resort-based Industry in Laguna, Philippines,” researchers found that while most resorts check for leaks as part of their conservation efforts, only a few reuse wastewater from pools for landscaping or treat used pool water for reuse.

The researchers also added that many resorts, especially private ones, discharge used pool water directly into the streets, and most of them lack proper filtration or wastewater treatment systems.

“Conserving natural water resources, such as groundwater, is critical not only for human survival but also for the health of ecosystems that sustain life. As a researcher, I see water not just as a resource to be used, but as part of a larger natural system (like Mt. Makiling) that regulates and renews it,” Dr. Palma-Torres said.

Dr. Palma-Torres said the most fulfilling part of this study is knowing that its results can help inform local policies with real impact, and it has the potential to change the disconnect between water resource users and managers by providing a clear, evidence-based starting point.

The study appears in the April 2025, volume 154 no.2 issue of the Philippine Journal of Science (PJS), a publication of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), managed by the DOST-Science and Technology Information Institute (STII). The PJS is one of the many initiatives of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions, Opportunities for All. For more information, visit www.philjournalsci.dost.gov.ph.

By Claire Bernadette A. Mondares, DOST-STII   A study found that local tourists’ willingness to pay (WTP) an additional fee for resorts in Calamba City and Los Baños, Laguna could generate up to P159.2 million which can be used to improve the conservation of the groundwater resources in Mt. Maki...

20/08/2025

The Wednesday HERALD (Aug. 20-26,
2025 issue)
https://thewednesdayherald.net/weekly-issues/august-20-26-2025-issue-vol-44-no-40/
https://thewednesdayherald.net/

19/08/2025

On SMC’s flood control program: ‘Help has arrived’ – Laguna Gov
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/on-smcs-flood-control-program-help-has-arrived-laguna-gov/

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) – Help is on its way for Laguna’s long-standing flooding problem after San Miguel Corp. (SMC) committed to implement flood control measures in the province at no cost to the government.

Laguna Governor Sol Aragones met with SMC President and CEO Ramon Ang last week and discussed potential collaborations, including the signing of an agreement to dredge Laguna de Bay and widen its connecting rivers and tributaries.

“This is not instant. There is a process to follow. But we are ready to wait because, finally, help has arrived,” Aragones said in a media statement.

She expressed optimism that the partnership would finally deliver a lasting solution to the province’s flood woes, emphasizing the importance of support from the House of Representatives, local government leaders, and the public.

She also announced the creation of a provincial task force that will include all LGUs, national government agencies, and multi-sectoral stakeholders to complement SMC’s efforts.

According to Ang, Laguna rivers have narrowed over time due to the construction of protective walls. Soil excavated from these river walls is often dumped back into the waterways, worsening siltation and making rivers shallower, he said.

“After building the wall, the dumped soil is no longer removed. That’s what causes flooding in Laguna. It’s the same problem all over the country. We keep building walls along rivers, and contractors just keep dumping soil into them,” Ang explained.

To address this, Ang and Aragones committed to finalize a memorandum of agreement (MOA) covering river dredging and bed expansion which seeks to provide flood protection benefits for the next 50 years.

The project will be carried out at no cost to either the national or provincial government and without tax credits or incentives to the corporation.

“We will sign a MOA with Governor Sol Aragones to widen all the rivers in Laguna. Our goal is to provide a long-term solution to the province’s flooding problem for the next 50 years. All narrow rivers will be widened by 30 percent of their current width,” Ang said.

The infrastructure giant also committed to conduct annual river maintenance and cleaning to ensure the sustainability of the project.

Since 2022, SMC has been working with the local governments of San Pedro and Biñan to clean and dredge rivers, citing the heavy buildup of silt as a major flood contributor.

As of July 2025, SMC’s river cleanup program, Better River PH showed that 87,899 metric tons of silt and solid wastes have been removed from Biñan’s river covering 3.2 kilometers of river channels while 53,774 metric tons of silt were dredged from San Pedro’s Tunasan River covering waterways of .830 km.

Based on the province’s hazard and risk maps, 18 cities and municipalities surrounding Laguna de Bay are among the most flood-prone areas, with some floodwaters taking three to six months to subside. (CH/PIA-Laguna)

19/08/2025

PhilHealth rolls out outpatient cancer screening tests
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/philhealth-rolls-out-outpatient-cancer-screening-tests/

To help reduce cancer-related deaths and ease the financial burden on Filipino families, PhilHealth will begin covering selected outpatient cancer screening tests under its new YAKAP (Yaman ng Kalusugan Program) starting August 14, 2025. Many Filipino patients, especially family breadwinners, face higher risks of premature death from breast, lung, colon, and liver cancer compared to their Asian neighbors. These losses translate to an estimated P35.3 billion in economic impact each year.

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the country, with Globocan 2022 reporting nearly 189,000 new cases and over 113,000 deaths. According to the World Health Organization, early detection can increase survival rates up to 99 percent for breast cancer and over 90 percent for cervical cancer.

The initiative was announced by Acting President and CEO Dr. Edwin M. Mercado during the nationwide launch held at the Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center, one of the accredited cancer screening facilities in the country.

“Sa pamamagitan ng bagong benepisyong ng PhilHealth para sa outpatient cancer screening, mas pinalawak natin ang akses ng bawat Pilipino sa maagang pagtuklas ng kanser. Hindi na kailangang mag-atubili na agarang magpa-screening dahil ang serbisyong ito ay para sa lahat.” said the APCEO.

This initiative directly strengthens cancer prevention and promotes early detection nationwide, fully supporting President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s vision for Universal Health Care, as highlighted in his recent State of the Nation Address.

The new benefit packages cover essential screening procedures for breast, lung, liver and colorectal cancers, with the following rates:

● Mammogram at Php 2,610
● Breast Ultrasound at Php 1,350
● Low Dose Chest Computed Tomography (CT) Scan at Php 7,220
● Alpha Fetoprotein at Php 1,230
● Liver Ultrasound at Php 960
● Colonoscopy at Php 23,640
To avail of this benefit, members must first register at their chosen PhilHealth YAKAP Clinic. Following a thorough medical assessment, their primary care doctor will then issue a valid prescription to refer the member to an accredited cancer screening facility.

For more details on benefits and services, members may call PhilHealth’s 24/7 touch points at (02) 866-225-88 or at mobile numbers (Smart) 0998-857-2957, 0968-865-4670, (Globe) 0917-1275987 or 0917-1109812.

19/08/2025

BSP honors outstanding South Luzon partners
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/bsp-honors-outstanding-south-luzon-partners/

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) recognized nine outstanding institutional partners of its South Luzon Regional Office (SLRO) during the 2025 Outstanding BSP Stakeholders Appreciation Ceremony (OBSAC) held on 08 August 2025 in Naga City.



BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. had this message: “The SLRO may not be our biggest regional office—but it is definitely our most expansive. This office covers Southern Palawan to Catanduanes—spanning nearly 800 kilometers. This scale brings unique challenges but also reaffirms a simple truth: we are here; we are better together.”



BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat shared this message to the awardees: “You have helped bring our vision of financial inclusion closer to reality and made our programs more meaningful for ordinary Filipinos.”



The OBSAC, which started in 2004, has served as a platform for the BSP to recognize outstanding partners that support the central bank’s mandates of ensuring price stability, financial stability, and a safe and efficient payments and settlements system.



This year’s awardees were cited for advancing BSP initiatives in gold buying, financial inclusion and education, currency management, and digital payments.



The outstanding institutional partners of the BSP SLRO are:



Land Bank of the Philippines – Lucena Guinto Branch and Cash Operations Unit
Land Bank of the Philippines – Naga Rotunda Branch
CARD Banking Group
Provincial Government of Quezon
Provincial Government of Camarines Norte
Quezon Federation and Union of Cooperatives
DWMR Radyo Pilipinas Palawan
Mariners Polytechnic Colleges Foundation
JMH Microfinance, Inc.


The SLRO OBSAC 2025 followed the appreciation ceremony for the BSP’s Head Office partners on 18 July 2025. Similar ceremonies will be held for the partners of the BSP offices in North Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) recognized nine outstanding institutional partners of its South Luzon Regional Office (SLRO) during the 2025 Outstanding BSP Stakeholders Appreciation Ceremony (OBSAC) held on 08 August 2025 in Naga City. BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. had this message: “Th...

19/08/2025

350 Calabarzon health facilities accredited as PhilHealth YAKAP providers
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/350-calabarzon-health-facilities-accredited-as-philhealth-yakap-providers/

By Fredmoore Cavan


CALAMBA CITY, Laguna — A total of 350 healthcare providers across the Calabarzon region are now offering free outpatient medical services under the government’s YAKAP ng Pamahalaan (Yaman ng Kalusugan) program.

Formerly known as Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama (Konsulta), YAKAP expands the scope of accessible health services, covering medicines, checkups, and basic laboratory tests.

Accredited YAKAP healthcare providers in the region include 78 in Cavite, 94 in Laguna, 55 in Batangas, 52 in Rizal, and 66 in Quezon province.

According to Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), the revitalized program underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding every Filipino’s health and well-being, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a healthier nation under Bagong Pilipinas.

The initiative shifts the focus from treatment to prevention, aiming to bring essential healthcare closer to communities.

Under YAKAP, Filipinos now have access to 75 essential medicines, more than triple the previous 21, through partner pharmacies. This expanded list is covered by a maximum benefit limit of ₱20,000 per patient annually.

The program also increases coverage for laboratory services from 15 to 20 tests and introduces high value and specialty screenings for colorectal, lung, liver, and breast cancers to promote early detection.

PhilHealth clarified that members may avail of these cancer screening tests at no cost in select hospitals, provided they present a doctor’s order from an accredited primary care provider.

Jasmin Taasan, a resident of Calamba City, Laguna, described the new program as a great help, stressing that through YAKAP she does not need to worry whenever she needs doctor consultations and laboratory checkups.
“Maraming salamat po sa PhilHealth at sa ating government sa pagpapalawak ng mga benepisyo pagdating sa pag-access sa mga angkop na serbisyong medikal at pangkalusugan. Malaking tulong po ito sa mga mahihirap na mamamayan natin na may sakit, makakapag pakonsulta sila ng libre at laboratoty tests para malaman kung ano tlga ang sakit nila.” she shared.

To make enrollment easier, registration for the primary care packages will soon be available through the eGov PH app, ensuring more convenient access to services.

16/08/2025

San Pablo City aims for Guinness World Record in transplanting coconut seedlings
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/san-pablo-city-aims-for-guinness-world-record-in-transplanting-coconut-seedlings/

SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna — The “City of Seven Lakes” is gearing up for a historic comeback as the Coconut Capital of the Philippines with an ambitious attempt for a Guinness World Record for the most coconut seedlings transplanted in 15 minutes.

On August 29, 2025, thousands of students, farmers, and citizens will converge on transplanting sites across the city.

“This is more than just a record attempt — it’s a statement that San Pablo City is ready to reclaim its place as the heart of the country’s coconut industry,” said Mayor Arcadio B. Gapangada Jr. “We are planting hope, livelihood, and pride for our people.”

The event marks the official launch of San Pablo’s Coconut Industry Revival Program, a strategic initiative to boost agricultural productivity, create jobs, and strengthen the city’s agro-industrial sector.

The timing couldn’t be more symbolic: business magnate Manuel V. Pangilinan’s recent acquisition of Franklin Baker Company (FBCoP), headquartered in San Pablo City, has renewed optimism for local farmers.

FBCoP is a pioneer in coconut processing with more than a century of serving customers worldwide with safe and high quality coconut-based food and beverage products. FBCoP’s revitalized operations will spur demand for quality raw material de-husked coconuts from the city and adjacent regions.

Local organizers are working closely with the Philippine Coconut Authority and Guinness World Records officials to ensure that transplanting protocols, timing, and verification meet international standards.

Beyond the record, the city envisions the project as a rallying point for environmental stewardship and community solidarity. “Every seedling planted is a future productive tree that will sustain generations of San Pableños,” said Pepito Bonilla, the city’s Consultant for Coconut Industry and Agricultural Productivity.

Media Coverage & Photo Opportunities: The record attempt offers dramatic visuals of thousands planting in unison, making it ideal for TV, print, and online features. Accredited media are invited to cover the event from staging areas across the city.

For more details, contact Pitz Bonilla at City Agriculture Office. Tel. No. 0917 545 4711 or [email protected]

SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna — The “City of Seven Lakes” is gearing up for a historic comeback as the Coconut Capital of the Philippines with an ambitious attempt for a Guinness World Record for the most coconut seedlings transplanted in 15 minutes.   On August 29, 2025, thousands of students, farm...

14/08/2025

Laguna exec imposes online gambling ban on employees
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/laguna-exec-imposes-online-gambling-ban-on-employees/

By Christopher Hedreyda

SAN PEDRO CITY, Laguna (PIA) —The city government of San Pedro in Laguna has passed two measures imposing restrictions on online gambling, such as prohibiting its employees from playing on all gambling platforms and taking down digital online gambling advertisements across the city.

Mayor Art Mercado signed Executive Order No. 13 directing Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) licensees, suppliers, gaming venue operators, and system administrators to remove online gambling advertisements within the city by August 15.

Mercado also signed Executive Order No. 14 prohibiting all city officials and employees from playing in online casinos and other forms of gambling activities within the city. Both orders were signed on July 11.

“As public servants, it is our duty to set an example of discipline, integrity, and compassion. We cannot build a better community if we tolerate distractions that silently destroy lives,” he said in a Facebook statement on August 4.

The local chief executive stressed his commitment to prioritize programs with genuine value and purpose, while encouraging the public to turn away from vices that lead nowhere.

“This is not a fight against leisure, but a fight against systems that slowly drag families, young people, and livelihoods into ruin,” Mercado said.

“In San Pedro, we will choose what is right, even when it’s not easy,” he added.

EO 13 also prohibits the approval of any new outdoor advertisements promoting online gambling that includes billboards, digital signages, vehicle and public transport ads, posters, flyers, and other outdoor media.

Mercado noted that gambling contributes to social harm, and as civil servants, government employees must set an example by protecting the future of the youth and every family from the dangers of gambling.

In adopting the twin measures, the city government cited the social harm caused by excessive gambling, particularly its impact on the youth, vulnerable individuals, and families, “which can lead to addiction, financial instability, and other consequences detrimental to community well-being.”

It also saw the need to uphold the integrity of public service and ensure the ethical conduct of government employees, fostering public trust and responsible governance. (CH/PIA-Laguna)

By Christopher Hedreyda   SAN PEDRO CITY, Laguna —The city government of San Pedro in Laguna has passed two measures imposing restrictions on online gambling, such as prohibiting its employees from playing on all gambling platforms and taking down digital online gambling advertisements across the...

13/08/2025

The Wednesday HERALD (Aug. 13-19,
2025 issue)
https://thewednesdayherald.net/.../august-13-19-2025.../
https://thewednesdayherald.net/

12/08/2025

DOLE readies ₱110-M aid for habagat-hit Calabarzon workers
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/dole-readies-%e2%82%b1110-m-aid-for-habagat-hit-calabarzon-workers/

By Fredmoore Cavan

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna — Around 13,000 individuals across the region are set to benefit from the cash-for-work and livelihood assistance of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Calabarzon, targeting communities affected by the southwest monsoon intensified by recent severe weather disturbances.

According to Regional Director Erwin Aquino, DOLE Calabarzon has allocated a total of ₱98.96 million to support the recovery of 12,120 individuals affected by the habagat under its emergency employment flagship program, Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD).

TUPAD beneficiaries will be engaged in short-term, community-based work such as clean-up and rehabilitation activities, lasting for a minimum of 10 days. Each beneficiary will be compensated based on the region’s highest prevailing minimum wage.

“The program not only provides immediate income to affected individuals but also contributes to restoring and rehabilitating their communities,” Aquino said in a statement.

He added that the regional office has also set aside ₱11.78 million to support 1,168 individuals across the region under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP).

“This livelihood assistance program supports both individual and group ventures by providing starter kits and essential tools to help recipients establish or enhance income-generating activities as part of their recovery from recent calamities,” Aquino explained.

He stressed that the assistance reflects the agency’s commitment to providing both immediate relief and long-term recovery support, helping disaster-affected communities rebuild their lives.

The program will be implemented in coordination with local government units and partner agencies, ensuring the timely and efficient rollout of the programs.

“With these initiatives, DOLE Calabarzon hopes to empower affected individuals not only to recover but also to become more resilient against future disasters,” Aquino added.

According to the Department of Social Welfare and Development, a total of 269,823 families were affected by the torrential rains and flooding brought about by the enhanced southwest monsoon. The widespread impact prompted several provincial governments in Calabarzon, including Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal, to declare a state of calamity.

By Fredmoore Cavan   CALAMBA CITY, Laguna — Around 13,000 individuals across the region are set to benefit from the cash-for-work and livelihood assistance of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Calabarzon, targeting communities affected by the southwest monsoon intensified by recent...

12/08/2025

Ramon Ang, Gov. Aragones Join Forces in Flood Fix at No Cost to Gov’t
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/ramon-ang-gov-aragones-join-forces-in-flood-fix-at-no-cost-to-govt/

By Roselle R. Aquino

STA. CRUZ, Laguna - San Miguel Corporation (SMC) President Ramon Ang and Laguna Governor Sol Aragones have agreed to collaborate on a solution to the province’s long-standing flooding problem—without any cost to the government.

The meeting, which also included Congressman Arman Dimaguila—a long-time advocate for flood mitigation—and other local officials, aims to develop a sustainable and effective flood management plan with support from the private sector.

“Thank you very much, Sir Ramon Ang, for your concern for our fellow Lagunenses,” said Governor Aragones. “We will work closely together to gradually resolve this flooding issue.”

While specific details of the proposed solution have yet to be disclosed, Ang assured that SMC is ready to provide technical and financial assistance without burdening the provincial government’s funds.

Dimaguila also expressed his support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of private-sector involvement and government cooperation in addressing Laguna’s flooding crisis.

By Roselle R. Aquino   STA. CRUZ, Laguna – San Miguel Corporation (SMC) President Ramon Ang and Laguna Governor Sol Aragones have agreed to collaborate on a solution to the province’s long-standing flooding problem—without any cost to the government. ADVERTISEMENT   The meeting, which also i...

11/08/2025

President Maria Theresa E. Del Rio’s Visionary Legacy: A Clubhouse, A Lion Statue, A Little Free Library and A Home for the Homeless
https://thewednesdayherald.net/news/president-maria-theresa-e-del-rios-visionary-legacy-a-clubhouse-a-lion-statue-a-little-free-library-and-a-home-for-the-homeless/

By: LION EMMA C. CABRERA, MJF

When Lion Maria Theresa E. Del Rio accepted the presidency of the San Pablo City Emerald Lions Club, PMJF, for Lion Year 2024–2025, she did so with a clear and ambitious goal in mind: to bring to life the long-held dream of every Emerald Lion—to build a multifunctional clubhouse they could proudly call their own.
It was not an easy job. At the time, the club had only ₱341,000.00 in savings—ten years’ worth of careful allocation from the administrative fund. But Pres. Del Rio was undeterred. Even before officially beginning her term in July 2024, she took decisive action.
Together with Club Treasurer Lion Susan N. Alcazar, PMJF, she sought support for the lot where the envisioned clubhouse would stand. With determination and faith, they reached out to then San Pablo City Mayor Vicente B. Amante, a known staunch supporter of community causes. On July 02, 2024, Pres. Del Rio personally appealed to Mayor Amante for land where the clubhouse could be built. Without hesitation, the good mayor graciously granted her request, and donated a 200-square-meter parcel of land along Amante Drive in Barangay San Jose, San Pablo City, right there and then.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held on July 29, 2024, with Mayor Amante as the honored guest. Construction began shortly after, under the supervision of project manager and club treasurer Lion Susan Alcazar. Though funds were limited, the dream had taken root.
Despite the ongoing construction, and implementation of equally significant projects such as medical missions and sight-for-kids projects, Pres. Del Rio launched two additional legacy projects: the installation of a Lions statue with pedestal and the establishment of a little free library on the clubhouse grounds. The little free library is the brainchild of Club Marketing and Communications Chairperson Lion Elaine L. Monasterial. These projects would symbolize not only the Lions' service and spirit but also their commitment to literacy and community development.
To turn these dreams into reality, Pres. Minnie worked tirelessly to raise the necessary funds. She welcomed the challenge, reaching out to family, friends, associates, business partners, and fellow Lions for support. Her dedication and prayers bore fruit.
Through the collective efforts of President Del Rio and her fellow Emerald Lions, the club was able to raise additional funds to finance these projects garnered through both cash and in-kind donations. These contributions made possible the construction of the clubhouse, the installation of the Lion statue, and the establishment of the free little library.
The blessing and official inauguration of these legacy projects were held on April 9, 2025, in a celebration marked by warmth, camaraderie, and generous feasting, graced by fellow Lions and honored guests including then District Governor Sol Wilfredo Flores, Jr., 30 PMJF, and First Vice District Governor Apolinar U. Cortez, 5 PMJF.
But Pres. Del Rio's compassion didn’t stop there.
Upon learning about the plight of abandoned, abused, and homeless children once roaming the streets of San Pablo City, she was moved to take action. Together with Club Services Chairperson Lion Theresa Viela A. Tolentino, they sought assistance from Congressman Loreto “Amben” S. Amante of Third District of Laguna, and Congressman Ivan Howard A. Guintu of PINUNO Party List. In response, the two lawmakers promptly allocated sufficient funds to rehabilitate and reconstruct the Center for the Welfare and Protection of Children - now known as Center 1.
The groundbreaking of Center 1 was held on January 18, 2025 with officers and staff from the Department of Social Welfare and Development in attendance, alongside Congressman Amante. By June 18, 2025, Center 1 was ready for occupancy.
The joy on the children’s faces as they stepped into their new home was deeply moving. The rooms—each equipped with beddings, furniture, television sets, and electric fans—offered not only shelter but dignity and comfort. The Emerald Lions ensured that the space would be a true home. In addition to the furnished rooms, an anonymous Emerald Lion donated wall fans, stand fans, tables, benches, rice cooker, 43” Smart television set, dryer, dish racks, pillows, foams and t-shirts - making daily life easier and more comfortable for the children.
Heartfelt thanks are therefore due to the following generous donors - City Mayor Vicente B. Amante, Congressman Loreto "Amben" Amante, Wilfrando L. del Rio, Emerald Lions Leila Aquino, Susan N. Alcazar, Nancy Young, Aida Ong-Herrera, Maria Luisa B. Pasia, Emma C. Cabrera, Mini Winnie A. Surbano, Albina D. Gutierrez, Analiza S. Tan, Anna Korina Tan, Erlyn R. Saspa, Erica B. Cabrera, Michelle A. Arizabal, Aisa Joy Lee Ho, Patricia T. Alvero, Kristin Ann A. Picazo, Aileen A. Manansala, Elaine L Monasterial, Dr. Loyda P. Dalisay, Brigida B.Alican and Rosa Lee Tiu; Lion Dignitaries Second Vice District Governor Imelda Pechera, LEO District Chairperson Cecille Asprec, and Past District Governor Wennie B. Bico; PID Michael So; and close friends Cheung Tin Chee, Lorenzo Co, Larry Amante, Salvador Alcazar and James Uy.
Through unwavering determination, heartfelt service, and able leadership, President Maria Theresa E. Del Rio has not only fulfilled the Emerald Lions’ decades-old dream of a clubhouse, but has also uplifted the lives of the most vulnerable.
Congratulations to President MARIA THERESA E. DEL RIO, MJF, as well as to all the officers and members of the SAN PABLO CITY EMERALD LIONS CLUB, PMJF for their remarkable legacy projects and exemplary service. Your achievements stand as a shining testament to what it truly means to be a Lion – serving with courage, compassion, and commitment…..without expecting anything in return.

By: LION EMMA C. CABRERA, MJF   When Lion Maria Theresa E. Del Rio accepted the presidency of the San Pablo City Emerald Lions Club, PMJF, for Lion Year 2024–2025, she did so with a clear and ambitious goal in mind: to bring to life the long-held dream of every Emerald Lion—to build a multifunc...