OBNews

29/11/2024

CATANDUANES STATE UNIVERSITY GRADUATE AMONG TOPNOTCHERS IN NOVEMBER 2024 NURSES LICENSURE EXAMINATION

The pride of Bicol continues to soar as Arianne Marie Baltero Estrella, a graduate of Catanduanes State University, clinched the second spot in the November 2024 Philippine Nurses Licensure Examination. Estrella achieved an impressive rating of 92.20%, tying with another examinee and showcasing the exceptional quality of nursing education offered by her alma mater.

This remarkable achievement highlights the dedication and hard work of Estrella, who now stands as a symbol of excellence for the province of Catanduanes and the entire Bicol region. Her success also reflects the unwavering commitment of Catanduanes State University to produce top-caliber nursing professionals ready to make a difference in the healthcare industry.

OBNews extends its heartfelt congratulations to Arianne Marie Baltero Estrella for this outstanding feat, inspiring future nurses to follow in her footsteps and aim for excellence.

22/11/2024

ICC ISSUES ARREST WARRANT AGAINST ISRAELI’S PRIME MINISTER

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the recent Gaza conflict. The charges include the use of starvation as a method of warfare and intentionally targeting civilians. The ICC also issued a warrant for Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif. Israel and the United States, both non-members of the ICC, have rejected the court’s jurisdiction and criticized the warrants. This unprecedented move marks the first time the ICC has targeted a sitting leader of a Western-backed nation. 

22/11/2024

National Projects Blocked by Former Mayor Ghie Rosal Now Moving Forward Under Mayor Alfredo Garbin, Drawing Praise from Brgy. Homapon

Legazpi City, Philippines – National infrastructure projects previously stalled under the administration of former Mayor Carmen Geraldine “Ghie” Rosal are now moving forward under the leadership of current Mayor Alfredo Garbin, eliciting positive reactions from community leaders.

One of these projects is the construction of a covered court in Sitio Crossing, Barangay Homapon. According to former Barangay Captain BeeJay Ariola, the project, which was blocked by Mayor Rosal despite support from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), has now been greenlit. Ariola shared the good news in a social media post, saying, “Good news na to Brgy. Homapon, Sitio Crossing. Tumawag si Mayor Alfredo Garbin kahapon informing na diresto na talaga ang hinarang kang dating Mayor na gigibuhon na Covered Court/MPB sa Sitio Crossing.”

The court project, which also required a deed of donation for the land, was previously met with challenges during Rosal’s term. Official letters from her office in January and February 2023 instructed both the DPWH and Barangay Homapon to halt developments on the property, citing issues regarding ownership and the need for coordination with the city government. This caused significant delays, depriving residents of vital infrastructure, especially during typhoon season.

Under Mayor Garbin, however, progress on the covered court is now assured. Garbin’s swift action to remove roadblocks for the project has been met with gratitude by community members. Ariola emphasized the importance of the development, especially for disaster preparedness. “Dakulang tabang po ini sa Brgy. Homapon lalo na kung may bagyo may dagdag ng masisirungan maliban sa mga school rooms and private houses,” Ariola added.

Mayor Garbin’s proactive leadership in addressing national and local project delays highlights his commitment to improving the lives of Legazpeños. By prioritizing stalled infrastructure projects, he not only resolves past issues but also sets a precedent for collaboration with national agencies such as the DPWH.

This latest development reflects a new era of governance in Legazpi City, where community welfare and progress take center stage. The once-halted covered court project in Sitio Crossing is now a beacon of hope for Brgy. Homapon residents, proving that with decisive leadership, challenges can indeed be overcome.

22/11/2024

Former Mayor Geraldine Rosal Criticized for Neglect Leading to Delays in Flood-Prevention Proposal

Legazpi City, Philippines – The recurring floods in Legazpi City could have been mitigated, if not entirely prevented, had former Mayor Geraldine Rosal promptly acted on a crucial proposal from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Documents recently surfaced, revealing a letter from the DPWH Regional Office V dated November 21, 2022, addressed to then-Mayor Rosal. The proposal requested a Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) resolution authorizing the DPWH Equipment Management Division to temporarily handle the operation and maintenance of the city’s three main pumping stations—Tibu, Baybay, and Victory. These stations are vital in addressing the city’s flooding issues, but several components were already in dire need of replacement to function effectively.

The DPWH reiterated this request multiple times, including during a committee hearing on November 18, 2022, yet no significant progress was made under Rosal’s administration. Her failure to facilitate the passage of the necessary SP resolution delayed the much-needed funding and operational intervention for the pumping stations.

It is worth noting, however, that the resolution request had long been pending with the Committee on Public Works and Environmental Protection, chaired at the time by Councilor Renato A. Valladoled. This prolonged delay highlights a systemic inefficiency within the legislative process. While the SP as a whole bears some responsibility for the bottleneck, critics argue that Mayor Rosal, as the city’s chief executive, should have taken the lead in ensuring the swift passage of such a critical resolution.

A former barangay captain of San Roque, a community severely affected by the floods, expressed his frustration over the delays, saying:
“So this was the reason. You made the people of San Roque endure the flooding for so long. Now, dear people of San Roque, you know the reason. I don’t think the DPWH director was at fault.”
The statement reflects the anger and disappointment of residents who have long suffered the consequences of inaction.

Meanwhile, a new letter dated November 14, 2024, addressed to Mayor Alfredo Garbin Jr., emphasized the urgency of the same proposal. The letter further exposed the lack of leadership during Rosal’s term, where public safety and infrastructure development took a back seat.

Had Rosal acted decisively and effectively coordinated with the SP to expedite the resolution, the operational shortcomings of the pumping stations could have been addressed earlier. This would have spared Legazpi residents from the persistent flooding that has plagued the city for years. Instead, her administration’s negligence cost the city valuable time and opportunities to protect its citizens.

While the SP cannot be entirely blamed for the delays, the lack of initiative and urgency from Rosal’s administration remains a glaring oversight. Critics now call on the former mayor to explain her administration’s failure to act on a proposal that could have significantly improved Legazpi City’s flood-prevention measures. As climate challenges continue to intensify, proactive and decisive leadership is no longer a luxury but a necessity in local governance.

21/11/2024

Mary Jane Veloso’s Transfer to the Philippines Under Discussion, Says DFA and DOJ

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and Department of Justice (DOJ) have released a joint statement regarding ongoing talks about the possible transfer of Mary Jane Veloso from Indonesian custody to the Philippines. Veloso, a Filipina sentenced to death in Indonesia for drug trafficking, has been at the center of diplomatic negotiations between the two nations.

According to the statement, the Philippine government is committed to honoring the conditions set for her transfer, including the continuation of her sentence in the Philippines, while adhering to the country’s prohibition of the death penalty. The DFA and DOJ emphasized their willingness to abide by any agreed terms, excluding capital punishment, which is outlawed under Philippine law.

The statement further revealed that discussions regarding the terms of Veloso’s transfer remain ongoing with Indonesian authorities. The Philippine government has been pursuing this option as part of its efforts to secure Veloso’s return while maintaining its legal obligations.

Mary Jane Veloso’s case has garnered widespread attention both locally and internationally, serving as a focal point in the broader discussion on migrant workers and the dangers of drug trafficking. Advocates and human rights organizations continue to campaign for her release, highlighting her status as a victim of human trafficking.

Further updates are expected as negotiations progress.

21/11/2024

Tabang Bikol: Tindog Oragon sa Legazpi

Ngayong umaga, Nobyembre 21, 2024, pinangunahan ni House Speaker Martin Romualdez ang “Tabang Bikol, Tindog Oragon” relief initiative na ginanap sa Ibalong Centrum for Recreation sa Lungsod ng Legazpi.

Ang programang ito ay bahagi ng mas malawak na pagsisikap na tumulong sa mga komunidad sa rehiyon ng Bicol na naapektuhan ng mga nagdaang bagyo, kabilang na ang ‘Carina,’ ‘Kristine,’ at ‘Pepito.’

Mga Pangunahing Bahagi ng Programa:

1. Pamamahagi ng Pinansyal na Tulong
Sa ilalim ng Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) ng DSWD, namahagi ng tulong-pinansyal para sa mga pamilyang lubhang naapektuhan.
2. Mini-Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF)
Gaganapin ngayong araw ang serbisyo fair na magbibigay ng akses sa iba’t ibang serbisyo ng gobyerno tulad ng pabahay, kalusugan, at programang pangkabuhayan.
3. Pamamahagi ng Relief Goods
Isang convoy ng 24 na trak na may dalang pagkain, hygiene kits, damit, at iba pang pangunahing pangangailangan ang umalis mula sa House of Representatives noong Nobyembre 18 upang ihatid ang tulong sa libu-libong pamilya sa rehiyon.

Sa kabuuan, halos ₱750 milyon ang inilaan para sa tulong-pinansyal at relief goods na makikinabang ang mahigit 150,000 katao sa Bicol region.

Binanggit ni Speaker Romualdez ang kahalagahan ng pagkakaisa at mabilis na aksyon sa pagtugon sa mga sakuna. Aniya, “Ito ang paraan namin upang ipakita na kaisa kami ng ating mga kababayan sa Bicol sa ganitong mahirap na panahon.”

Ang event na ito ay patunay ng dedikasyon ng pamahalaan na magbigay ng agarang tulong at magsulong ng pangmatagalang rehabilitasyon para sa mga nasalanta ng kamakailang mga kalamidad.

20/11/2024

Pag ganito, gusto mo mang tumulong, mahirap rin mangialam.

LOOK: Aftermath of a head-on collision between a tricycle and a motorcycle in Tico-Tico, Homapon, Legazpi City. Local residents rushed to assess the situation while waiting for professional help.

Photo Rey A. Ate

20/11/2024

LOOK: Aftermath of a head-on collision between a tricycle and a motorcycle in Tico-Tico, Homapon, Legazpi City. Local residents rushed to assess the situation while waiting for professional help.

Photo Rey A. Ate

20/11/2024

Provincial Board Urged to Nullify EO No. 1 on Quarry Oversight in Albay

A resolution sponsored by Board Member Melissa Abadeza-Armedilla was passed during the regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay, calling for Acting Governor Glenda Ong Bongao to either review or nullify Executive Order No. 1, issued by former Governor Grex Lagman. The executive order had created the “Green Guardians,” tasked with monitoring the movement of aggregates such as sand and gravel extracted from quarry operations at the foot of Mayon Volcano.

The resolution was proposed amid alarming reports of a 44% decline in quarry revenue collections during the third quarter of this year. Despite the continued operations of quarry companies, the collection downturn has raised concerns over the efficacy of revenue collection and oversight mechanisms.

According to Armedilla, the diminished revenue has significantly impacted the provincial coffers, delaying salaries for the Green Guardians due to insufficient funds. Other provincial officials also acknowledged the province’s struggles with maintaining adequate collections, further burdening the provincial budget as it continues to cover operational costs, including the Green Guardians’ payroll.

The resolution is seen as a call for accountability and reevaluation of the executive order’s impact on quarry revenue management. Armedilla emphasized that the decision now rests with Acting Governor Bongao on whether to rescind or uphold EO No. 1.

Meanwhile, calls for stronger oversight and alternative solutions to address revenue collection issues have gained traction as the province seeks to improve its financial position amidst ongoing challenges.

20/11/2024

Legazpi Mayor Alfredo Garbin Raises Alarm on Quarry Revenue Decline, Calls for Action Against Fake Receipts

Legazpi City Mayor Alfredo Garbin expressed grave concern over the continued decline in quarry revenues in Albay, which has dropped by 44% this year. Garbin highlighted the alarming situation, citing the alleged proliferation of fake delivery receipts as a critical issue that needs immediate attention.

In a public statement, Mayor Garbin called for decisive action, urging the dissolution of the Task Force Quarry, which he accused of failing to address the growing problem. “The continuous drop in quarry collections is alarming. This must stop. Task Force Quarry, which has turned a blind eye to fake receipts, must be dissolved,” Garbin stated.

The mayor’s call for action comes amid allegations that quarry revenues are being mismanaged, with fake delivery receipts contributing to the province’s substantial financial losses. Despite these allegations, concerned officials in Albay have yet to take concrete steps to address the issue.

Garbin’s statement underscores the need for transparency and accountability in managing the province’s quarry industry, as revenues are crucial to funding essential services and projects for local communities. He further urged Albay officials to take immediate action and investigate the root cause of the revenue decline to restore public trust and ensure proper management of resources.

As the issue gains traction, stakeholders are awaiting a response from Albay officials regarding Garbin’s call for reform and the implementation of measures to prevent further revenue loss.

20/11/2024

Ako Bicol Partylist and Speaker Romualdez Launch Massive Relief Drive for Bicol

In response to the recent challenges faced by the Bicol region, Ako Bicol Partylist, in partnership with House Speaker Martin Romualdez, has launched a massive relief drive to assist affected families. This initiative aims to address the urgent needs of communities impacted by natural disasters and socio-economic hardships.

The relief drive, spearheaded by Ako Bicol Representatives led by Congressman Elizaldy Co, focuses on providing essential goods such as food packs, hygiene kits, and other necessities. Thousands of families from various provinces in Bicol, including Catanduanes, Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Sorsogon, stand to benefit from this humanitarian effort.

Speaker Romualdez, known for his strong support for disaster response initiatives, commended Ako Bicol’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of the region. “The resilience of Bicolanos is inspiring, and we are here to provide the necessary assistance to help them recover and rebuild,” Romualdez said during the launch.

Ako Bicol Representatives emphasized the importance of solidarity and quick action in addressing the needs of their constituents. “This is part of our mission to ensure that no Bicolano is left behind, especially in times of need,” Congressman Co stated.

The relief operations highlight the collaborative efforts between national leaders and local representatives in addressing the pressing concerns of the Bicol region. This drive reinforces Ako Bicol’s advocacy for inclusive development and its dedication to serving the Bicolanos.

20/11/2024

Quarry Revenue Decline in Albay Raises Concerns, Investigation Launched

Albay’s Liga ng mga Barangay President and Ex-Officio Board Member, Hisham Ismail, expressed alarm over the significant decline in quarry revenues in the province. As Vice Chairman of the Committee on Environment of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, he underscored the impact of this revenue drop on barangays, municipalities, and cities.

According to Ismail, quarry revenues decreased by 21% in the first quarter of 2024. The situation worsened in subsequent quarters, with a 33% drop in the second quarter and a steep 44% decline in the third quarter.

“The loss in revenues directly affects barangays and municipalities as they receive the largest percentage of these funds. This decline is a blow to their operations and projects,” Ismail stated.

To address this alarming trend, Ismail announced plans to launch an investigation to uncover the root cause behind the revenue shortfall. “We must ensure transparency and accountability. The public deserves to know the truth behind this issue,” he added.

The investigation aims to provide clarity and resolve any underlying issues, ensuring the sustainability of revenue streams vital to Albay’s local government units.