TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Thursday, 11 June 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

11 June 2026, Thursday, 5:00 p.m.

1.    Marcos off to Russia for ASEAN-Russia Summit on June 17-18

[BusinessWorld, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Panay News, Philstar]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/06/11/marcos-off-to-russia-for-asean-russia-summit-on-june-17-18

2. German President Steinmeier set for June 15-17 PH visit

[Daily Tribune, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar, Rappler]

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/326959/german-president-steinmeier-set-for-june-15-17-ph-visit

3. NDRRMC: Mindanao quake death toll climbs to 47; Almost 3,000 aftershocks logged after Mindanao quake

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Sunstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2244492/ocd-mindanao-earthquake-death-toll-rises-to-47

4. Marcos shouldn't be blamed for Senate disarray, but those 'protecting' VP Sara — Palace

[Manila Bulletin, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/06/11/marcos-shouldnt-be-blamed-for-senate-disarray-but-those-protecting-vp-sara-palace

5. Luistro reveals private prosecutors for Duterte impeachment trial; VP Sara to trust legal team’s preparations for trial

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer,  Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, Mindanao Times, News5PH, Panay News, Philstar, Rappler, Sunstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2244601/luistro-reveals-first-batch-of-private-prosecutors-for-dutertes-impeachment-trial

6. Marcos won't allow the Philippines to lose control of Bajo de Masinloc — Palace

[BusinessWorld, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/06/11/marcos-wont-allow-the-philippines-to-lose-control-of-bajo-de-masinloc-palace

7. Marcos distributes educational materials to students from 13 public schools in San Juan

[ABS-CBN News, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, News5PH, Philstar, Sunstar]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/06/11/news/marcos-distributes-educational-materials-to-students-from-13-public-schools-in-san-juan/2363228

8. Palace calls for thorough probe into deaths of Ateneo student-athletes

-NBI creates task force to probe Ateneo student-athletes' death

-Ateneo coaches, players subpoenaed over drowning incident — DILG

-DOLE summons Ateneo’s Tab Baldwin over employment permit

-PSC chair Gregorio asks: 'Where's Tab Baldwin?'

-Lawyer seeks lookout order vs Ateneo coach Tab Baldwin amid probe

-Head coach Tab Baldwin, team manager Epok Quimpo on leave as Ateneo probes death of Baterbonia, Adili

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Guardian, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News, Philstar, Rappler, Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/06/11/news/palace-calls-for-thorough-probe-into-deaths-of-ateneo-student-athletes/2363310

9. No sensitive data compromised in Senate website defacement — DICT

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar, Rappler, Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/06/11/no-sensitive-data-compromised-in-reported-senate-website-defacement-per-dict

10. NCRPO on full alert starting June 11 for Independence Day

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, DZRH, Inquirer, Manila Standard]

https://www.dzrh.com.ph/post/ncrpo-on-full-alert-starting-june-11-for-independence-day

11. Meralco hikes electricity rate by P0.1488/kWh for June 2026

[ABS-CBN News, Businessworld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Times, Philstar, Rappler]

https://www.rappler.com/business/meralco-power-rates-june-2026/

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Thursday, 11 June 2026

LGU Cagwait, Surigao Sur strengthens PBBM’s food security agenda through expanded rice aid to 1,100 households 

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

CAGWAIT, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — In line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s (PBBM) thrust to ensure food security and strengthen support for vulnerable sectors, the local government unit (LGU) of Cagwait in Surigao del Sur continues to intensify its community-based interventions through sustained food assistance programs that directly reach indigent households.

In May 2026, the LGU spearheaded the distribution of rice assistance under the Local Government Support Fund–Financial Assistance to Local Government Units (LGSF-FALGU) through the SAGIP SAKA Program (Republic Act 11321), held in Barangay Aras-asan gymnasium, as confirmed by Cagwait MLGOO Mayonito Ramos of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). 

Accordingly, a total of 1,100 indigent households across the municipality each received 10 kilograms of rice, providing immediate relief to families facing rising food costs. The rice distributed was sourced from the Bitaugan Irrigators Association, highlighting the government’s dual approach of supporting vulnerable families while strengthening local agricultural producers.

The initiative is part of the ₱5-million allocation under the LGSF-FALGU SAGIP SAKA Program, which seeks to strengthen local food systems while empowering farmers and fisherfolk, key priorities under the national agenda on food security and agricultural productivity. 

Beneficiaries are set to receive assistance six times under the program, ensuring sustained support for their basic food requirements and helping cushion the impact of economic pressures on low-income households.

Present during the distribution were local officials and personnel who coordinated to ensure the orderly implementation of the activity.

For beneficiary Nelia Vasquez, 62, the assistance brought immediate relief to her household. Recently delisted from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) after one year, she continues to shoulder the daily needs of her family, including her four grandchildren who live with her.

Another beneficiary, a 62-year-old tricycle ‘bao-bao’ driver, in a phone patch interview with PIA’s Domingo Arat, expressed gratitude to the administration, describing the assistance as a significant help to his family after receiving rice subsidy under the program.

“Dako na kadayaw ine na tabang sa amo pamilya sa kalisud sa panahon karon, salamat sa panggamhanang nasyonal” (This is a great help to our family amid the hardships of today’s time; thank you to the national government.)

The program is expected to further reinforce the province’s drive toward inclusive development, ensuring that no family is left behind in the government’s pursuit of food security and resilient local communities. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)

Thursday, 11 June 2026

Claver LGU, private partner boost education with turnover of school building

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — A local community in Barangay Cagdianao in Claver, Surigao del Norte, recently received a newly constructed two-story, four-classroom senior high school building from the municipal government through partnership with the Platinum Group Metals Corporation (PGMC), a mining company.

Funded through PGMC’s Social Development and Management Program (SDMP), the project stands as a testament to a successful and sustainable public-private partnership (PPP) between the local government unit of Claver and the responsible mining sector.

According to the LGU, the state-of-the-art facility is designed to provide a safer, more conducive, and resilient learning environment for the youth. “For years, communities in mining areas have looked toward sustainable development that outlasts mining operations. This infrastructure represents a long-term investment in human capital and community empowerment.”

During the ceremonial turnover, PGMC President Dante R. Bravo said, “The project is more than just concrete and steel; it represents the company’s enduring commitment to lifting its host and neighboring communities.”

“By prioritizing education, the partnership ensures that the benefits of mineral resource development are directly funneled into building a brighter future for the next generation,” Bravo added.

Surigao del Norte Department of Education Schools Division Legal Officer Claire Galavia expressed gratitude for the significant infrastructure, noting that the timely completion of the building directly addresses classroom shortages.

“When the government and private mining corporations align their visions for social development, the ultimate winners are the grassroots communities,” she said. “The collaboration in Barangay Cagdianao serves as a model blueprint on how responsible mining, when paired with proactive local governance, can drive meaningful and long-term developmental change in the province of Surigao del Norte.”

Meanwhile, the Social Development and Management Program (SDMP) is a mandated mechanism in the Philippine mining sector that aims to improve the living standards of host and neighboring communities.

Through infrastructure, livelihood, education, and healthcare projects, partner companies such as PGMC continue to champion responsible mining as a catalyst for progressive and inclusive regional growth. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte)

Thursday, 11 June 2026

DICT stepping up digital transformation drive for quality education, inclusion in Caraga

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

SURIGAO DEL SUR (PIA) — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Caraga is intensifying its digital transformation initiatives across the Caraga region, focusing on expanding connectivity, enhancing digital literacy, and fostering innovation to support the government’s agenda on quality education, digital inclusion, and inclusive socioeconomic development.

During the Kapihan sa PIA held in Butuan City on June 1, DICT Caraga Director Mario P. Cuñado highlighted key programs and upcoming infrastructure developments that aim to bridge the digital divide and bring information and communications technology (ICT) services closer to communities.

He announced the upcoming launch of the Digital Transformation Center in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, as part of the National ICT Month 2026 celebration.

Dir. Cuñado said the facility, valued at ₱25 million, was donated by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Bislig City and the provincial government of Surigao del Sur to DICT.

“Bislig City donated the lot and building because we currently have no facility there; our existing center is only in Tandag City,” Cuñado said, noting that the new center will expand the agency’s reach in the province.

He added that a 300-square-meter lot was also provided for the installation of a communications tower to further strengthen digital infrastructure and connectivity in the area.

Free ICT training for the public

Cuñado also underscored that DICT Caraga is conducting daily free training programs throughout June 2026 in line with the National ICT Month celebration.

He encouraged the public to follow the official DICT Caraga Facebook page for updates on training schedules and other ICT-related activities.

“These are highly technical training, that’s why we need trained and DICT-certified trainers to properly deliver the programs we offer,” he said.

The initiative aims to enhance ICT literacy and equip learners with relevant digital skills, supporting the government’s push for quality education and workforce readiness.

Flagship ICT programs for innovation and governance

Cuñado also presented DICT Caraga’s flagship programs, including the Government Network (GovNet), National Broadband Program, ICT Development Bureau initiatives supporting startup communities, cybersecurity training, and the electronic signature system.

He explained that GovNet not only strengthens government connectivity but also helps students explore ICT-driven entrepreneurship through mentoring programs conducted in partnership with academic institutions across Caraga, covering both college and senior high school learners. “We are helping students learn how to start businesses using ICT.”

He further noted that Caraga is currently the only region with certified cybersecurity personnel who assist national government agencies in developing the National Computer Emergency Response framework.

Strengthening digital inclusion

Meanwhile, DICT Caraga continues to expand digital access through the Bayanihan SIM Card Distribution program, which has already distributed 17,000 SIM cards across Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Agusan del Sur.

Chief of the Technical Operations Division, Engineer Lawrence Salang, said the region targets to distribute 66,000 SIM cards across 24 locations regionwide.

The program aims to strengthen digital inclusion by improving access to communication services and bridging connectivity gaps in underserved communities.

Through these integrated initiatives, DICT Caraga reinforces its commitment to building a digitally empowered region, where connectivity, education, and innovation are made accessible to all. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur) 

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Wednesday, 10 June 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

10 June 2026, Wednesday, 5:00 p.m.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. personally inspected St. Elizabeth Hospital in General Santos City on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, to assess the extent of the damage caused by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake and ensure immediate medical response for affected residents. Photo: Presidential Communications Office

1. Marcos pledges P50K aid for families of Mindanao earthquake fatalities; Sara Duterte visits quake-hit areas

-[ABS-CBN News, BusinessMirror, BusinessWorld, DZBB, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/990951/marcos-families-mindanao-earthquake-fatalities/story/

2. Mindanao earthquake death toll climbs to 45 — OCD

-Phivolcs logs over 2,000 aftershocks

-Sarangani province placed under state of calamity

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/6/10/mindanao-quake-death-toll-climbs-to-45-disaster-agency-0842

3. Marcos inspects new SFHS school buildings, says he’s not AI

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News, Philstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2243906/marcos-on-school-buildings

4. Senate security threat may be connected to Co's ex-bagmen; Gatchalian says Senate not on lockdown

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, GMA News, Inquirer, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2243945/18-ex-bagmen-may-be-linked-to-senate-security-threat-gatchalian

 

5. Gatchalian: 16 votes still needed to convict Sara Duterte

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News, Rappler, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2244038/gatchalian-16-votes-still-needed-to-convict-sara-duterte

6. SC cites ‘lack of standing’ in junking teacher’s Senate session petition

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2244105/sc-cites-lack-of-standing-in-junking-teachers-senate-session-petition

7. Ombudsman dismisses raps vs. Recto over PhilHealth fund transfer

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessMirror, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, News5PH, Panay News, Philstar]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/6/9/ombudsman-dismisses-raps-vs-recto-over-philhealth-fund-transfer-1857

8. Alleged Chinese floating structure spotted in Bajo de Masinloc; Philippines urges China to remove new structure

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar, Rappler]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/990926/look-alleged-chinese-floating-structure-spotted-in-bajo-de-masinloc/story/

9. NBI to probe death of 2 Ateneo basketball players; House probe into sports programs sought

-PNP: Ateneo group 300 meters from resort, ‘asked to be alone’

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, DZRH, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/6/10/house-probe-sought-into-safety-accountability-in-school-sports-programs-1101

10. Red alert hoisted over Visayas grid; Mindanao under yellow alert on June 10, 2026

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, News5PH, Philstar]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/economy/990931/red-alert-visayas-grid-yellow-alert-mindanao-grid-june-10-2026/story/

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit