(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Friday, 27 March 2026) Easterlies affecting the country. Easterlies ang makaapekto sa rehiyon sa Caraga.



Friday, March 27, 2026

Workers, managers share learning gains from DOLE’s labor, safety training

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

BAROBO, Surigao del Sur (PIA)  For workers and company officials of J.M. Luciano Construction, Inc., learning about labor laws and workplace safety has become a practical step toward building safer and more productive workplaces.

Around 75 workers and management personnel gained valuable knowledge on labor laws and occupational safety during a recent training conducted by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)–Surigao del Sur under the supervision of Provincial Director Genebelle Bal in Barobo town.

The activity supports the national government’s continuing agenda to promote decent work, workers’ protection, and safer workplaces, key pillars in advancing inclusive economic growth and sustainable development across industries.

Bal emphasized that strengthening labor-management cooperation is key to sustaining industrial peace and productivity. She noted that informed workers and responsible employers are better equipped to uphold labor standards, reduce workplace risks, and create environments where safety and respect are prioritized.

For Domingo Apostol, administrative officer, the training provided an opportunity to strengthen both management and worker awareness on their shared responsibilities.

“This learning session is very important for both management and workers. It helps us better understand labor laws and workplace safety, which are essential in creating a productive and responsible working environment.”

He emphasized that understanding labor rights and responsibilities promotes accountability and fosters stronger coordination between workers and management, an essential element in maintaining workplace discipline and productivity.

Participants were oriented on general labor standards, statutory benefits, and key provisions of International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 190, which promotes safe and respectful workplaces free from violence and harassment. The session also clarified employment classifications, such as casual, probationary, seasonal, and project-based workers, helping participants better understand their roles, entitlements, and obligations.

For Emilio O. Tabunda, safety manager, the training provided critical insights that strengthened their approach to workplace safety and compliance.

He noted that the knowledge gained will help reinforce safety protocols on-site and encourage workers and supervisors to work together in preventing workplace hazards.

“Safety is everyone’s responsibility. With the learning we gained, we are more confident in implementing safety measures that protect our workers and improve our daily operations,” he shared.

The training also included updates on Department Order No. 252-25, which outlines the revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 11058, also known as the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Law. Discussions highlighted the shared duty of employers and workers in maintaining safe and healthy workplaces.

For many participants, the training goes beyond compliance, it brings lasting benefits that can be applied directly in their daily work. The knowledge gained is expected to improve workplace practices, reduce risks, and strengthen trust between workers and management.

As similar capacity-building initiatives continue nationwide, programs like this contribute to building a resilient workforce, protecting workers’ welfare, and supporting the government’s broader goal of ensuring safe, fair, and productive employment opportunities for all Filipinos. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)

Friday, March 27, 2026

Agusan Norte municipal LGU intensifies fuel price monitoring 

By Nora L. Molde

Personnel from the local government of Remedios T. Romualdez’s Local Price Coordinating Council conduct an inspection and fuel price monitoring under the program on ‘Oplan Calibration.’ The initiative ensures fair pricing and accurate weighing and measuring of goods. It also safeguards consumers from irregular trade practices amid rising global fuel costs. (Photo courtesy of DTI Agusan del Norte)

BUTUAN CITY (PIA)  In response to rising fuel prices linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the local government unit (LGU) of Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR), through its Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC), has strengthened the monitoring of fuel prices in the town to protect consumers and ensure fair trade practices.

DTI Agusan del Norte Director Lorijane D. Sacote emphasized the importance of sustained government action during periods of economic uncertainty. 

“In light of the ongoing global situation affecting fuel prices, DTI, in partnership with our local government units, remains vigilant in monitoring market conditions to ensure that price adjustments are justified and that consumers are protected. Our goal is to maintain transparency, prevent unfair trade practices, and help mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs and other prices of goods on our communities.”

The local government’s LPCC remains fully committed to protecting its constituents from the effects of rising fuel prices through strengthened monitoring and close coordination with DTI, to ensure that businesses comply with regulations to protect consumers’ welfare.

From March 16 to 19, RTR’s LPCC, through its calibration team and in coordination with the DTI Negosyo Center RTR, conducted the first quarter ‘Oplan Calibration: Surprise Inspection of Business Establishments.’ The initiative forms part of proactive measures to safeguard the public from possible irregularities amid economic pressures stemming from fuel price hikes.

Led by Calibration Officer Designate Renando M. Rubrica, the inspection covered various establishments to ensure compliance with pricing regulations, proper weighing and measuring standards, and consumer protection laws.

The activity culminated on March 19, with fuel hike impact monitoring activity at selected fuel stations. The monitoring team, led by DTI Agusan del Norte Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist Elmer A. General, assessed the effects of recent fuel price increases on both consumers and local businesses.

Results showed that fuel price adjustments were consistent with prevailing market conditions, with no reported cases of panic buying, illegal fuel selling, or hoarding, indicating strong compliance among fuel retailers in the municipality.

The joint initiative highlights strengthened collaboration between the LGU of RTR and DTI Agusan del Norte in addressing the ripple effects of global fuel price volatility at the local level.

Through continuous monitoring, enforcement, and coordination, both agencies reaffirm their commitment to fostering a fair, transparent, and stable marketplace, making both consumers’ and businesses’ welfare their top priority amid evolving economic challenges. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

Friday, March 27, 2026

DTI: Prices of prime commodities in Agusan Sur remain stable

By Niña Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante

BUTUAN CITY (PIA)  The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur assured the public that prices of basic commodities in the province remain stable, despite the recent surge in global fuel costs driven by the ongoing Middle East crisis.

Rey Corvera, head of the Consumer Protection Unit of DTI Agusan del Sur, reported that recent monitoring of major business establishments has shown no significant price spikes for essential goods.

“We have not yet noted any significant increase in the prices of basic commodities despite the increase in fuel prices,” Corvera said, aiming to ease the anxieties of local consumers.

While Corvera acknowledged that fuel price hikes typically impact the cost of goods through logistics and transportation, he emphasized that manufacturers cannot raise prices unilaterally. To date, the DTI national office has not received formal requests for price increases from manufacturers.

“They [manufacturers] cannot just change their prices overnight,” Corvera added. He noted that any price adjustment must undergo a “tedious process,” including a formal proposal to the National Price Coordinating Council to determine if the increase is justifiable.

Beyond the DTI’s standard ministerial and supervisory functions over business establishments, Corvera likewise highlighted that the agency remains vigilant in enforcing price caps. He stressed that any violations pertaining to the suggested retail prices (SRPs) will be met with strict administrative sanctions by the Department to prevent profiteering.

To ensure comprehensive coverage across the province, DTI leverages its network of Negosyo (Business) Centers. These centers assist in monitoring price movements within their specific jurisdictions. Currently, 13 out of the 14 local government units (LGUs) in Agusan del Sur have established Negosyo Centers to protect consumer welfare.

In the event that there will be reported overpricing, the DTI follows a structured legal protocol when addressing such public concerns. Corvera outlined the steps the agency takes when a business is suspected of non-compliance:

“Should there be questionable price hikes of basic commodities reported to our office, we will follow through with a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) to the alleged violator to give them due process. This allows the establishment to explain the increase,” elucidated Corvera. “However, if we find their justification to be insufficient or without merit, we will proceed with issuing a Notice of Violation pursuant to Republic Act No. 7581 or the Price Act of the Philippines.”

This enforcement mechanism serves as a safeguard for consumers, ensuring that even as global market pressures mount, local retailers do not take undue advantage of the situation. Corvera urged the public to remain observant and report any suspicious price movements to their nearest Negosyo Center or the DTI provincial office. (NJGD, PIA Caraga with a report from DTI Agusan del Sur)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Thursday, 26 March 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

26 March 2026, Thursday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Marcos signs law granting emergency powers to suspend fuel excise tax

-DOF: Marcos may order fuel excise tax cut, suspension by April 12 or 13

-Bam to DOF: Agencies should hasten response to oil crisis

-Senators raise alarm over oil supply uncertainty

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News, Philstar, Rappler, Sunstar, The Freeman]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2201804/marcos-may-order-fuel-excise-tax-cut-suspension-by-april-12-or-13

2. TRANSPORT STRIKES, CASH AID PAYOUTS:

-Transport, commuter groups launch nationwide strike to demand oil tax repeal

-Libreng sakay rolled out in Metro Manila; MMDA says no big traffic disruption, stranded passengers amid strike

-No major peace and order disruption in 1st day of transport strike, PNP says

-SC suspends afternoon work in NCR over transport strike

-Delivery riders in Metro Manila receive cash aid from DSWD

-Jeepney driver now in good condition after seizure during cash payout — QC LGU

-Community pantries return as oil crisis squeezes drivers, commuters

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/3/26/transport-commuter-groups-launch-nationwide-strike-to-demand-oil-tax-repeal-0825

3. ERC suspends power spot market, modifies pricing mechanism

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, BusinessMirror, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Manila Times, Manila Standard, Mindanao Times, Panay News, Philstar, Rappler, The Freeman]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/economy/981442/erc-suspends-power-spot-market-modifies-pricing-mechanism/story/

4. Russian oil arrives as Philippines battles ‘energy emergency’

[Daily Tribune, GMA News, Manila Times, Mindanao Times, Inquirer, Panay News, Philstar, Sunstar, The Freeman]

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/315602/russian-oil-arrives-as-philippines-battles-energy-emergency

5. China open to reviving South China Sea oil talks, but tells Philippines to 'show sincerity'

[Daily Tribune, GMA News, Daily Tribune, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Mindanao Times, News5PH,  Manila Bulletin, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/03/26/2516959/china-open-reviving-south-china-sea-oil-talks-tells-philippines-show-sincerity

6. Leviste to Marcos: Cut Asean budget, funnel savings to fuel price relief

[Daily Tribune, Manila Bulletin, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2201739/leviste-to-marcos-cut-asean-budget-funnel-savings-to-fuel-price-relief

7. Marcos Jr. signs law resetting BARMM elections to September 2026

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila Times, News5PH, Panay News, Philstar, Rappler]

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/mindanao/marcos-signs-law-barmm-elections-september-2026

8. Ombudsman says 'ready' to provide VP Sara Duterte's SALNs to Congress

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/3/26/ombudsman-says-ready-to-provide-vp-sara-duterte-s-salns-to-congress-1125

9. BSP holds key rate at 4.25% in off-cycle meet amid Mideast risks

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Panay News, Watchmen Daily Journal]  https://business.inquirer.net/581683/bsp-holds-key-rate-at-4-25-in-off-cycle-meet-amid-mideast-risks

10. HPG names Rommel Batangan as new acting director

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, News5PH, Sunstar] https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/981451/hpg-names-rommel-batangan-as-new-acting-director/story/

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Wednesday, 25 March 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

25 March 2026, Wednesday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Marcos declares national energy emergency; Business groups call for clear plan

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2200774/marcos-declares-natl-energy-emergency

2. Marcos to sign bill suspending fuel excise tax

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

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/03/25/news/marcos-to-sign-bill-suspending-fuel-excise-tax/2307067

3. Marcos OKs P20-B emergency fund to secure fuel amid global oil crisis

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2200968/dbm-on-p20-billion-emergency-fund

4. Marcos says oil crisis could be ‘impetus’ for PH-China joint gas development; PH also eyeing Russian oil

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

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/marcos-china-joint-gas-exploration-south-china-sea/

5. Marcos: Jet fuel lack may ground planes

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/03/25/news/marcos-jet-fuel-lack-may-ground-planes/2306235

6. PNP, AFP boost security at energy facilities after power emergency

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

https://tribune.net.ph/2026/03/25/pnp-afp-boost-security-at-energy-facilities-after-power-emergency

7. VP DUTERTE IMPEACHMENT HEARING:

-Sara Duterte skips impeachment hearing, says complaints should be junked

-Failure to join impeachment proceedings could be seen as 'culpable violation of the Constitution', says Luistro

-House panel to subpoena Sara Duterte SALN, NBI findings on threat vs Marcos

-House panel OKs additional security for Ramil Madriaga, issues subpoena for his affidavit

-Poa willing comply with House panel’s subpoena; Slams House probe as ‘fishing expedition’

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Times, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News, Philstar, SunStar, Rappler]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/981295/sara-duterte-skips-impeachment-hearing-says-complaints-should-be-junked/story/

8. Pulse Asia: Anti-corruption efforts top reason for trust in Marcos; inflation behind indecision

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, News5PH]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/25/anti-corruption-top-reason-for-trust-in-marcos-inflation-behind-indecision-pulse-asia

9. Tamayao steps down as PNP-HPG chief, denies harassment raps

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

https://tribune.net.ph/2026/03/25/tamayao-steps-down-as-pnp-hpg-chief-denies-harassment-raps

10. PAGASA issues El Niño Watch

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Manila Bulletin, Philstar]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/weather/content/981331/pagasa-issues-el-ni-o-watch/story/

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit