TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Wednesday, 8 April 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

08  April 2026, Wednesday, 5:00 p.m.

1.    Unemployment eases to 5.1% in February

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

https://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/read/unemployment-eases-to-5-1-in-february

2. DUTERTE IMPEACHMENT CASE:

-Sara Duterte defense team says SC petition vs impeachment aims ‘to seek clarity’, ‘not avoid process’

-Court allows VP Sara 'bagman' to appear in House impeachment hearing: Ridon

-House subpoenas SEC for VP Duterte, husband business records

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/8/vp-sara-camp-confirms-sc-petition-seeking-halt-to-impeachment-proceedings-0902

3. Marcos cautious with what he eats after diverticulitis; Palace to file complaints against fake news on PBBM's health

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

https://mb.com.ph/2026/04/08/marcos-cautious-with-what-he-eats-after-diverticulitis-palace-says

4. DTI extends price freeze on basic goods through end of April

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

https://manilastandard.net/business/314724289/dti-extends-price-freeze-on-basic-goods-through-end-of-april.html

5. OIL PRICES, SUPPLY:

-Fuel prices unlikely to normalize soon even if war ends today: Garin

-Palace assures business groups of sufficient fuel supply

-DOE warns diesel prices could hit P200 amid global oil crisis

-Oil supply enough for 50 days; buffer shipments arriving this month

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2208472/oil-supply-enough-for-50-days-buffer-shipments-arriving-this-month

6. DFA: Passport release delays possible due to Middle East war

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/8/dfa-passport-release-delays-possible-due-to-middle-east-war-1250

7. CHED approves shift to online classes for universities amid crisis

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, Manila Standard, Philstar]

https://manilastandard.net/news/314724314/ched-approves-shift-to-online-classes-for-universities-amid-crisis.html#google_vignette

8. MMDA: No coding on 'Araw ng Kagitingan'; MRT-3, LRT-2 offers free rides on April 9

[Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Philstar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2208647/no-number-coding-on-april-9-for-araw-ng-kagitingan-mmda

9. 9 nabbed for illegal trade of P9.7M in petrol products; PNP tracing source of seized fuel in Navotas port

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/8/pnp-tracing-source-of-seized-fuel-in-navotas-port-1438

10. LPA outside PAR has 'high chance' of developing into cyclone

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/weather/content/983012/lpa-monitored-outside-par-has-high-chance-of-developing-into-cyclone/story/

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Wednesday, 8 April 2026

Mitigating high prices: Corn as affordable, healthy substitute for rice

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The budget-friendly substitute for rice made from milled corn or ‘mais’ has inspired communities in Libjo, Province of Dinagat Islands, to revive a frugal way of sustaining the staple as families feel the impact of high rice prices, stemming from the ongoing energy crisis.

This initiative is led by the local government of Libjo, under Mayor Melody L. Compassivo, through the Municipal Agriculture Office, which distributes milled corn to households in the barangays of Rosita and Bayanihan on March 18.

According to Mayor Compassivo, the activity aims to strengthen food security by engaging communities on alternative food sources in the municipality, especially with the spike in food and rice prices.

She shared its ongoing partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga under the Corn Program. This partnership included distributing hybrid corn seeds and fertilizers to farmers in Barangay Garcia on March 10 to boost corn production and make the town self-reliant.

“Tumong sa programa nga matabangan ang mga panimalay sa pagpakunhod sa gasto sa pagkaon samtang ginapalambo ang lokal nga produksyon sa mais. Nagpasalamat usab ang lokal nga panggamhanan sa padayon nga suporta sa mga ahensya nga mitabang para moabot kini nga serbisyo sa atong mga benepisyaryo para sa kalampusan sa maong programa. (The objective of the program is to help households mitigate rising food expenses while strengthening our corn production. We are also thankful to the different government agencies for allowing these services to reach the beneficiaries in the LGU and for the successful implementation of the program),“ the local executive said.

“Padayon ang LGU sa pagpalambo og mga programa nga makatubag sa panginahanglan sa katawhan ug makapalig-on sa agrikultura sa lungsod sa Libjo. (The LGU continues to support programs that can meet the needs of the communities and bolster the agriculture sector in the town of Libjo),” Compassivo added.

Meanwhile, milled corn is prepared through ‘buyok,’ a traditional cooking method that takes a shorter time. The milled corn is poured into a pot of boiling water on low fire, and stirred until the water disappears, the corn grits become soft, and it is ready to eat. This cooking method is also common in rural areas of the country during large gatherings like birthdays and fiestas.

While rice from cereal grain sells in the market at an average price of P60-65 per kilo, milled corn sells attractively from P45-50 per kilo. Corn, as an affordable rice substitute, is also known for its nutritional value, being rich in dietary fiber and low in calories. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with a report from MIO Libjo)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Tuesday, 07 April 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

07 April 2026, Tuesday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Inflation accelerates to 4.1% in March amid fuel price shock

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/economy/982866/inflation-accelerates-to-4-1-in-march-amid-fuel-price-shock/story/

2. PCO files charges vs FB page spreading false info amid energy crisis

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/982911/pco-files-charges-vs-fb-page-spreading-false-info-amid-energy-crisis/story/

3. 'Hindi pang media lang': Palace insists on due process as critics hit 'slow' filing of flood control scandal cases

[ABS-CBN News, Inquirer, News5PH, Philstar]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/7/palace-insists-on-due-process-as-critics-hit-slow-filing-of-flood-control-scandal-cases-1444

4. JV Ejercito urge gov't execs: Stop sugarcoating reports to PBBM

[Daily Tribune, DZRH, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/04/07/jv-ejercito-urge-govt-execs-stop-sugarcoating-reports-to-pbbm

5. DUTERTE IMPEACHMENT CASE:

-WR Numero poll: 53 percent reject Sara Duterte impeachment, but 46 percent unaware of evidence

-House panel subpoenas records of ‘Mary Grace Piattos,’ Sara Duterte taxes

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/7/wr-numero-poll-53-percent-reject-sara-duterte-impeachment-but-46-percent-unaware-of-evidence-1443

6. SC holds oral arguments on national budget, unprogrammed funds

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Manila Times, Philstar, Rappler]

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/video-supreme-court-oral-arguments-budget-unprogrammed-funds-april-7-2026/

7. Peso’s purchasing power drops to 75 centavos from 2018 level

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News, Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/business/2026/4/7/peso-s-purchasing-power-drops-to-75-centavos-from-2018-level-1518

8. Another Filipino dies in Israel amid airstrikes

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

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/317182/another-filipino-dies-in-israel-amid-airstrikes

9. Atong Ang reportedly in Vietnam as PH authorities verify

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

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/317227/atong-ang-fled-to-vietnam-ahead-of-arrest-orders-remulla

10. DILG: Interpol red notice vs Zaldy Co may be out soon; AMLC: Zaldy Co received P802M from flood project contractor

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/7/dilg-interpol-red-notice-vs-zaldy-co-may-be-out-soon-1226

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Tuesday, 7 April 2026

DOLE rescues 50 child laborers in Butuan City, extends support services

By Mariesh F. Celedeña

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — About 50 child laborers engaged in hazardous work were rescued and provided support services by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and other partner agencies, highlighting the government’s commitment to protecting the children.

Most of the children were previously engaged in work not appropriate to their age and capacity, such as construction, waste scavenging, small-scale mining, and agricultural work. These situations exposed them to unsafe and harmful conditions.

Of these children, 20 are from Barangay Kinamlutan, 19 from Barangay Doongan, and 11 from Barangay De Oro. These children were profiled from 2019 to 2025 and assisted during the first quarter Information and Service Caravan on March 31, 2026.

According to Gladys O. Cafe, livelihood development specialist of DOLE Caraga, one of the most common reasons children engage in labor is their strong desire to help their families and ease their current economic hardships.

“Most child laborers in Butuan City willingly work because they are aware of their family’s situation, often struggling to meet basic needs such as food. At a very young age, they already feel the need to help their families survive, when, in fact, survival is a fundamental right that should be fully protected for every child,” said Cafe. 

To ensure that the children will no longer return to hazardous labor, DOLE Caraga and other agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), extended immediate assistance, such as hygiene kits, essential goods, and orientations on Republic Act No. 9231.

Beyond these, the department emphasized long-term interventions. Under the Child Labor Prevention and Elimination Program (CLPEP), parents were beneficiaries of livelihood programs and in the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD). 

“By providing livelihood support directly to their parents, we can ensure that they have a sustainable income that can ensure that their children are provided for and can return to school and have proper education,” Cafe added.

Meanwhile, the city government of Butuan expressed its strong support for the campaign against child labor. City Mayor Lawrence Lemuel H. Fortun assured the city’s strong support and continued collaboration.

“Rest assured, the city government will partner with DOLE, and whatever support you need to strengthen and promote our program against child labor, we will provide. You can count on our full support. I have always been an advocate for children’s rights and welfare since my time in Congress,” he said. (MFC, PIA Caraga with a report from DOLE Caraga)

Tuesday, 7 April 2026

Former rebel in Surigao Sur praises gov’t, encourages others to choose peace  

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — A former rebel identified as ‘Ka Luna,’ formerly affiliated with Guerrilla Front 19, thanked the government for the assistance she received under the reintegration program. 

“Pag-declare kanako nga surrenderer, nadawat nako ang mga financial assistance nga gikan sa gobyerno. Pasalamat namo kang Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny Pimentel sa iyahang mga paningkamot ug sa mga kauban pod nako nga former rebels (FRs) nga natabangan sa ilang pagpanugod sa pagpanginabuhi,” Ka Luna said, as she also encourages remaining rebels to choose peace for a better future. 

(When I was declared a surrenderee, I received financial assistance from the government. I am grateful to Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny Pimentel for his efforts and for helping other former rebels have their new livelihoods.) 

Her statement reflects FRs’ growing trust in the government as they continue to benefit from the reintegration programs that provide financial assistance, livelihood opportunities, and skills development, supporting their transition into productive members of society.

Meanwhile, 19 FRs received various forms of assistance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) and other partner agencies.

The ceremonial awarding of assistance was conducted during the 1st quarter Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) meeting in Tandag City, highlighting continuing collaboration among national agencies, local government units, and security forces in promoting peace and development in conflict-affected communities.

Of the 19 FRs who benefited from the E-CLIP program, eight of the beneficiaries came from the operational area of the 36th Infantry Battalion led by Lieutenant Colonel Joselito B. Ante Jr.

The awarding ceremony was led by Gov. Pimentel, who reaffirmed the provincial government’s strong support for reintegration initiatives that empower former rebels to rebuild their lives and contribute to community development.

Each beneficiary received a total of ₱75,000 in financial assistance, including ₱65,000 for livelihood support and ₱10,000 as immediate cash aid. This assistance is designed to help former rebels build sustainable livelihoods, secure stable income, and provide for their families as they reintegrate into civilian life, offering a concrete foundation for a fresh start and a productive future.

Beyond financial aid, beneficiaries were also provided with livelihood and skills training from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), temporary employment opportunities under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers Program (TUPAD) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and hygiene kits distributed by the Provincial Health Office of Surigao del Sur (PHO).

These integrated services demonstrate the government’s whole-of-nation approach to addressing the root causes of insurgency by promoting inclusive opportunities, strengthening livelihoods, and supporting long-term community stability.

Military encourages remaining armed individuals to surrender

Lieutenant Colonel Ante emphasized that the 36th Infantry Battalion will continue to encourage remaining armed individuals to surrender and take advantage of government programs designed to support peaceful reintegration.

He highlighted that the E-CLIP program not only provides financial assistance but also creates pathways to education, employment, and livelihood opportunities that promote family and community stability.

“The E-CLIP program offers not only financial support but also a chance for a new beginning and a better future for former rebels and their families,” Ante said.

Whole-of-government approach strengthens peace and development

The reintegration of FRs forms part of the broader peace and development agenda of the national government, which emphasizes collaboration among agencies and local stakeholders to address the underlying causes of insurgency.

Through sustained coordination among key agencies, the government continues to provide FRs with opportunities to rebuild their lives and contribute to nation-building.

The initiative highlights the government’s continued efforts to strengthen nationwide peace initiatives that promote inclusive growth, foster trust among communities, and ensure that former rebels are given the chance to live productive and peaceful lives.

As more FRs avail of reintegration programs, government officials remain hopeful that sustained support, strong leadership, and community participation will pave the way for lasting peace and development not only in Surigao del Sur but across conflict-affected areas in the country.

Through unity, compassion, and sustained government support, the path toward lasting peace continues to unfold, one reintegrated life at a time. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)