TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Monday, 6 July 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

06 July 2026, Monday, 5:00 p.m.

1. After seeking 'bloodbath,' Sara Duterte skips impeachment trial opening

-Marcos won't monitor VP impeachment trial, Palace says he has work to do

-Escudero voted back as VP trial presider amid Cayetanos' objections

-Reginald Tongol named as impeachment trial spokesperson anew

-NCRPO on full alert as Sara Duterte impeachment trial starts

-Tensions rise between protesters, police on Day 1 of Sara Duterte impeachment trial

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

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/07/06/2540246/after-seeking-bloodbath-sara-duterte-skips-impeachment-trial-opening

2. Pulong Duterte calls for fair Sara impeachment trial

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

https://tribune.net.ph/2026/07/06/pulong-duterte-calls-for-fair-sara-impeachment-trial

3. Gatchalian vows to protect Senate integrity amid political challenges

[ABS-CBN News, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/07/06/news/gatchalian-vows-to-protect-senate-integrity-amid-political-challenges/2378709

4. Palace respects court order as Marcoleta taken into custody; Defensor says arrest meant to silence him on corruption issues

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

https://manilastandard.net/news/314762037/palace-respects-court-order-as-marcoleta-taken-into-custody.html

5. Marcos’ Canada trip yields $2.5B in investments

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessMirror, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Standard, Manila Times]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/07/06/news/national/marcos-canada-trip-yields-25b-in-investments/2378644

6. Castro pushes back after Canada heckling incident

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://tribune.net.ph/2026/07/06/castro-hits-back-after-canada-incident

7. President Marcos on flood control probe: We're not done yet

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

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/07/06/2540107/president-marcos-flood-control-probe-were-not-done-yet

8. Marcos urges ‘careful study’ of changes in minors’ criminal liability

[Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Times, Panay News, Philstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2258025/marcos-urges-careful-study-of-changes-in-minors-criminal-liability

9. Super typhoon Bavi may enter PAR by Wednesday

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, Philstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2258106/bavi-may-enter-par-tuesday-night-or-wednesday-morning-pagasa

10. Fishermen demand official recognition for West Philippine Sea Victory Day

[Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Times, Philstar]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/07/06/regions/fishermen-demand-official-recognition-for-west-philippine-sea-victory-day/2378713© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Monday, 6 July 2026

PIA strengthens grassroots engagement with Panagtigum, Kapihan in Dinagat Islands

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga brought its platforms to the Province of Dinagat Islands, fulfilling its commitment to inclusive delivery of information and  government programs to grassroots communities.

Held on June 29 at the Provincial Guest Center, Barangay Cuarinta in San Jose town, nearly 100 participants from the youth and employment sector and provincial employees were engaged during the ‘Panagtigum’ sa Probinsya sa Dinagat Islands, in partnership with the provincial government of Dinagat Islands through the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Caraga.

‘Panagtigum,’ a Visayan word for gathering or convergence, is PIA Caraga’s regional initiative that aims to amplify government services and programs down to the grassroots. It is also an avenue through which PIA can be visible in communities – near or far.

The activity, which finally reached the island province, highlighted DICT’s efforts ensuring the ‘Digital Bayanihan’ initiative reaches communities in the province, especially with the same-day launching of the program on Strengthening the Philippine Workforce through Adaptive and Responsive Digital Knowledge (SPARK).  

According to Engineer Lawrence P. Salang, Technical Operations Division chief of DICT Caraga, SPARK is expected to equip Dinagatnons, especially the fresh graduates, with online global employment skills, allowing them to earn income in the comfort of their homes and without leaving their communities.

Dinagat Islands Provincial PESO Manager Lucia V. Galabo disclosed that the provincial government through PESO is looking into expanding the SPARK program to vulnerable sectors, especially teenage mothers so they can have a source of income to meet the needs of their children. “The program on SPARK offers income opportunities to persons with disabilities, women, out-of-school youth and others, helping the provincial government address poverty in the province.”

Also, Engineer Ricardo T. Bacolod Jr., Dinagat Islands provincial officer of DICT Caraga, shared the accomplishments of the agency in the province, including the establishment of free WIFI in significant public places such as in schools, health centers, municipal halls, ports, among others, strengthening the mandate of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on inclusive digital connectivity. 

“Currently, we are working on the implementation of the Bayanihan SIM program in Dinagat Islands, especially in unserved areas in the province. Through this program, more students will be connected to digital learning and the telecommunication companies will be motivated to put up towers in these unserved areas to address connectivity concerns of the increasing number of users,” Bacolod said.

DICT Caraga Planning Officer II Reymar A. Estafia of DICT, further shared that the agency is also mandated to strengthen cybersecurity campaigns so Filipinos are not only equipped with digital skills but also assured of their safety  and protection online. “Cybersecurity is one of our programs where we implement cybersecurity awareness due to rampant cybercrime. We need to bring this advocacy to the communities.”

“For this year 2026, we implemented 11 cybersecurity awareness activities in the Caraga region. In the Dinagat Islands, it is already 100 percent in digital signature for the government workforce, making government services accessible and convenient for all,” Estafia said, as he also relayed the accomplishments of DICT on Philippine National Public Key Infrastructure (PNPKI), a digital certificate system that allows government employees to create legally recognized digital signatures, encrypt emails, and authenticate secure logins.

SPARK program beneficiaries were also allowed to share how it transformed their lives and made them productive in their endeavors and business ventures. Media Anchor Benjie Bula of Radyo Serbato – Dinagat Islands participated in the open forum for a dynamic discussion.

Meanwhile, the Kapihan sa PIA, another platform of the agency, also took center stage in the province with Dinagat Islands Governor Nilo P. Demerey Jr. as a guest of the first Kapihan in the Caraga region, conducted in the provincial level.

Gov. Demerey shared the notable accomplishments and ongoing programs of the province in tourism, environmental protection, peace and order, health and nutrition, modernization in transportation, among others.

With the outstanding economic growth of the province and its resilience from the global crisis, the local chief executive said, “Daghan nata ug naabot nga nag-uban kitang tanan para sa probinsya (Together, we have achieved a lot for the province).”

“This is our future – Hong Kong, Singapore, and Bali, Indonesia – rolled into one. Dinagat Islands will be as progressive as Hong Kong, economically strong like Singapore, and beautiful as Bali, Indonesia,” Demerey said.

The governor added, “We have the resources, so we prepare all Dinagatnons, especially the new generation, for this phenomenal future.” (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands)

Monday, 6 July 2026

DICT brings cybersecurity awareness to over 1,700 learners in Siargao

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Caraga, in partnership with the municipal government of Del Carmen, Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte, conducted a series of cybersecurity and cyber-hygiene awareness sessions for 1,733 students from various secondary and elementary schools of the town. 

The activity, held on June 9-11, formed part of the DICT’s double celebration for its 10th year anniversary and the observance of National ICT Month, strengthening its commitment to build a safer, more secure, and digitally empowered Philippines. 

On June 9, DICT Caraga held sessions for 1,074 participants from Del Carmen National High School and the elementary schools of Katipunan, Esperanza, Cancohoy, Bagacay, and Jamoyaon at the Del Carmen and Katipunan covered courts.

It was followed by a campaign on June 10 that engaged the 390 participants from Oguing National Memorial National High School, Sayak Elementary School, Mahayahay Elementary School, Anitapolo Elementary School, Bitoon Elementary School, and Cabugao Elementary School. Sessions were held at the Oguing NHS Covered Court and the Cabugao Covered Court.

On June 11, DICT Caraga directly served 269 more learners from Mariano Matugas Memorial National High School, Tuboran Elementary School, Quezon Elementary School, Numancia Central Elementary School, and Mabuhay Primary School. Sessions took place at the MMMNHS and NCES Covered Courts.

DICT Caraga officials said that during awareness sessions, participants learned about the Internet and its consequences. The sessions highlighted both opportunities and risks in today’s digital environment.  Students also practiced cyber hygiene, including creating strong passwords, securing accounts, updating devices, and browsing safely.

They added that the discussions achieved several key outcomes, namely,  promoted responsible online behavior, addressed cyberbullying, and emphasized the protection of personal information. 

The sessions also increased awareness of digital footprints and guided identifying threats such as scams, phishing, identity theft, and compromised accounts. Additionally, participants learned the proper procedures for reporting cybersecurity incidents.

To reinforce learning and encourage participation, the sessions included interactive activities, games, and open forums. As a result, students became more confident discussing online safety and demonstrated a stronger understanding of responsible digital citizenship and cybersecurity best practices.

Sophia Anne, a student from Del Carmen National High School, thanked DICT for conducting the cybersecurity and cyber-hygiene awareness session. 

“Since students are constantly online for our studies, socialization, and entertainment, the digital world often feels like a safe and familiar space. However, this seminar served as a massive eye-opener for all of us,’ she said. “You successfully turned what could have been a dense, intimidating subject into an engaging, practical, and highly relatable learning experience.”

As DICT marks a decade of digital transformation and innovation, its initiatives such as increased internet connectivity in rural areas, regular cybersecurity training for students, and public awareness workshops demonstrates the agency’s focus on empowering a cyber-aware and resilient generation. 

As part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. directive to strengthen cybersecurity education and advocacy, DICT Caraga helps Filipino learners become responsible digital citizens and key contributors to a secure digital future. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from DICT Caraga)

Monday, 6 July 2026

PNP Agusan Sur strengthens patrols for schools’ safety

By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur (PIA) — Following the recent shooting incident in Tacloban City that heightened public concern over school safety, the Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office (ADSPPO) intensified security measures in schools across the province to ensure the safety and protection of students, teachers, and school personnel.

The enhanced security initiative includes increased police visibility, regular school patrols, strengthened coordination with school administrators and local government units (LGUs), and preventive security assessments in educational institutions in the provinces’ municipalities. The initiative also seeks to reassure parents and communities that schools remain safe learning environments as classes continue.

“As part of our intensified security measures, under the leadership of ADSPPO Provincial Director Police Colonel Yahya B. Yusup, we have scheduled regular visits to different schools from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. These are the peak hours when students arrive at and leave school. Through these visits, we aim to ensure peace and order and strengthen public safety in our educational institutions,” said Police Major Carmelo Malubay, chief of the Municipal Police Station of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

Malubay said the police immediately initiated heightened security measures after learning of the Tacloban incident. He explained that school visits are closely coordinated with school heads and principals to ensure security operations are carried out smoothly and without disrupting classes.

“To avoid causing fear or anxiety among students, our personnel conduct school patrols without carrying firearms inside the school premises. Our presence is intended to reassure students, teachers, and parents that the police are actively safeguarding the community. Police visibility also serves as a deterrent against individuals who may intend to commit unlawful acts,” he added.

For Leah N. Belo, an elementary school teacher and a parent of a Grade 10 student, the increased police presence provides reassurance that schools remain safe for learners.

“As an elementary teacher and a parent of a Grade 10 student, I appreciate the presence of police officers within the high school premises. The visibility of our police officers helps promote a safer and more secure learning environment for students and school personnel. Knowing that my son is studying in a place where security is taken seriously gives me peace of mind,” said Belo.

“Knowing that my son is studying in a place where security is taken seriously gives me peace of mind. I believe that regular inspections, when conducted respectfully and professionally, can help prevent harmful incidents and discourage unlawful activities,” she added.

Police Major Malubay noted that schools with private security personnel have strengthened their own security protocols by conducting bag inspections using handheld metal detectors at school entrances. These inspections are intended to prevent the entry of prohibited or dangerous items and further enhance campus safety.

“So far, we have not recorded any student found carrying dangerous items that could threaten the safety and security of the school community,” Malubay said.

The ADSPPO encouraged school administrators, parents, and the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious individuals, unattended objects, or unusual activities to the nearest police station. 

As mandated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the police reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with the Department of Education, local government units, and other stakeholders to maintain safe, secure, and conducive learning environments for all learners in Agusan del Sur. (KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur/Photo courtesy of San Francisco MPS)

 

Monday, 6 July 2026

DBM Caraga launches Trese HITSAS to strengthen transparency, responsive governance

By Mariesh F. Celedeña

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Caraga in collaboration with the Caraga State University (CSU) launched the Harmonization, Inclusivity, Transparency, Sustainability, Accountability, and Strategy (HITSAS) initiative on July 1 in Butuan City, anchored on the Bagong Pilipinas vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. 

Attended by local chief executives, local officials, and stakeholders from across the region, this initiative aims to strengthen local economic enterprises (LEEs) through capacity development, technology innovation, and digitalization.

While ‘trese’ represents Caraga as the 13th region in the country, HITSAS, on the other hand, comes from the local dialect ‘hitsas’ meaning complete. “HITSAS symbolizes a comprehensive strategy toward achieving our shared goal of delivering responsive and transparent public service,” said DBM Caraga Director Maria Fe D. Jagna, CESO III.

According to Dir. Jagna, HITSAS marks the beginning of a collaborative initiative that strengthens the partnership among the government, academe, civil society organizations (CSOs), and other stakeholders to promote sustainable local development.

The HITSAS program will be implemented from 2026 to 2028. It will begin with the project launch and pilot implementation, followed by evaluation and learning, scaling up of successful initiatives, and ultimately institutionalization to ensure its long-term impact.

Currently, DBM is already conducting surveys with the identified local government units to identify the gaps that need to be addressed. 

University President Rolyn C. Daguil, with the support of the university students, is planning to create a website that LGUs may access to view local economic enterprise performance, which they can track and use as their baseline. There will also be modules, such as strategic financial management, in creating business plans. 

Moreover, Butuan City Mayor Lawrence Lemuel H. Fortun expressed his support for the program. 

In his message, delivered by City Councilor Atty. Dindo Udarbe, the local chief executive emphasized the importance of the ability to plan and manage resources to ensure that every investment delivers meaningful results, and how HITSAS can help.

“Initiatives like DBM’s Trese HITSAS are important as they reinforce the values that guide effective public service: transparency, accountability, sustainability, and strategic decision-making. Through constant partnership and collaboration with DBM, knowledge sharing, and stronger systems, we can empower our LGUs to become better responsive and better equipped to serve our people,” Mayor Fortun said.  (MFC, PIA Caraga)