TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)
As of 19 February 2026, Thursday, 5:00 p.m.
TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Thursday, 19 February 2026
As of 19 February 2026, Thursday, 5:00 p.m.
1.Marcos vows
more career growth for teachers under his admin
[ABS-CBN News, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer,
Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus,
Philstar, Sunstar]
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/977097/marcos-vows-more-career-growth-for-teachers-under-his-admin/story/
2. Marcos,
Robredo to meet in Naga City
[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Manila Bulletin,
Manila Times, News5PH, Philstar, SunStar]
https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/02/19/news/marcos-robredo-to-meet-in-naga-city/2280885
3. Melvin
Matibag named as new NBI director
[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, DZRH, GMA News,
Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar, Sunstar]
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/977121/melvin-matibag-named-as-new-nbi-director/story/
4. BSP cuts
policy rate by 0.25 ppt to support lethargic economy
[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila
Bulletin, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar, Rappler]
https://business.inquirer.net/575006/bsp-cuts-policy-rate-by-0-25-ppt-to-support-lethargic-economy
5. DUTERTE
ICC PRE-TRIAL:
-Palace rejects Duterte yarn on ICC arrest as
‘kidnapping’
-‘I am old, tired, and frail’: Duterte asks
ICC to skip pre-trial
-De Lima: Duterte’s waiver proves trial
fitness
[ABS-CBN News, BusinessMirror, BusinessWorld,
DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila
Times, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatch Plus, Panay News, Philstar, Rappler,
Sunstar]
https://manilastandard.net/news/314705659/palace-rejects-duterte-yarn-on-icc-arrest-as-kidnapping.html
6. 4th
impeachment rap vs Sara Duterte transmitted to Speaker Dy’s office
-Defensor says VP Duterte impeachment will
push through, but fast-track mode 'malabo'
[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Guardian,
Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Manila
Times, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News, Philstar, Rappler,
Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2184118/fwd-4th-impeachment-rap-vs-duterte-transmitted-to-dys-office
7. ICC CASES:
-DOJ to take SC position in enforcing future
ICC arrest warrants
-Sotto: No Senate discussions yet on possible
ICC warrants vs. Dela Rosa, Go
-Palace: Philippines obliged to implement
possible ICC arrest warrant vs Dela Rosa, Go
-Minority bloc urges respect for Philippine
courts in ICC cases
[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune,
GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus]
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2183806/doj-to-take-its-cue-on-sc-rulings-in-enforcing-future-icc-arrest-warrants
[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila
Bulletin, News5PH, Philstar]
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2184142/vico-sotto-files-election-case-vs-sarah-discaya-for-alleged-overspending
9. Comelec
done with fact-finding probe on Marcoleta’s SOCE
[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News,
Inquirer, Manila Times, Philstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]
https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/2/19/comelec-done-with-fact-finding-probe-on-marcoleta-s-soce-1043
10. Puerto
Princesa airport manager shot dead; CAAP calls for urgent probe
[BusinessWorld, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila
Bulletin, Manila Standard, Mindanao Times, News5PH, Philstar, Sunstar]
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/977111/puerto-princesa-airport-manager-caap-investigation/story/
© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring
Unit
Thursday, 19 February 2026
Agusan Sur unveils 2026 Palarong Pambansa official logo
By Niña Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante
Aptly named ‘Palaro Tu Agsur’—a phrase rooted in the Manobo language—the logo embodies the rich cultural heritage of Agusan and the entirety of the Caraga region.
The term ‘Tu’ in Manobo translates to ‘sa’ or ‘in’ in Filipino, making ‘Palaro Tu Agsur’ equivalent to ‘Palaro sa Agsur.’ This linguistic choice underscores the province’s commitment to honoring its indigenous roots, particularly the Agusanon Manobo—the tribe predominant across the province. Their culture, language, and traditions remain deeply tied to the land, making the logo not just a symbol of sportsmanship but also of identity and pride.
A logo rich in meaning
The official logo integrates three culturally significant elements, each narrating a story of heritage, resilience, and unity:
* The river and sports symbol
A river-like stroke flows across the design, representing the iconic Agusan River, the longest river in Mindanao. For centuries, the river has served as the lifeline of the province—supporting transportation, trade, and livelihood. Its inclusion in the logo signifies growth and continuity, while the sports element at the top reflects the province’s long-cherished dream of hosting the Palarong Pambansa.
“This is a long-overdue dream. For decades, we aspired to host a national event such as the Palarong Pambansa. After 30 years, we have finally made it,” said Governor Santiago B. Cane Jr., recalling the challenges faced in securing the bid.
* Suyam-inspired patterns
The intricate embroidery art of the Manobo, known as ‘Suyam,’ is echoed in the logo’s patterns. Traditionally used to decorate ceremonial garments, Suyam carries cultural and spiritual meaning. Its continuous stitching represents interconnectedness, unity, and camaraderie—values mirrored in the Palarong Pambansa, where athletes from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao gather to show and celebrate Filipino youth’s diverse talents.
The three distinct Suyam-inspired motifs symbolize the three main island groups of the Philippines, reinforcing the event’s national significance.
* The Golden Tara
At the heart of the logo lies the image of the Golden Tara, a pre-colonial artifact discovered along the Agusan River. Made of solid gold and linked to Buddhist and Hindu traditions, the figurine is considered one of the most important archaeological finds in the Philippines. Its presence in the logo highlights the region’s deep historical roots and cultural wealth, serving as a reminder of the enduring spirit of Caraganons.
More than just sports
The unveiling of Palaro Tu Agsur marks more than the countdown to a sporting spectacle—it is a cultural statement. By embedding indigenous language and heritage into the official branding, Agusan del Sur positions itself not only as a host but as a storyteller, sharing its identity with the nation.
The Palarong Pambansa 2026 is expected to draw thousands of athletes, coaches, and spectators from across the country. For Agusan del Sur, it is an opportunity to showcase not only its facilities and hospitality but also its vibrant traditions, resilient communities, and the pride of its people.
As the Agusan river continues to flow—carrying stories of heritage and resilience—the province now flows into history, ready to welcome the nation to the Palaro Tu Agsur. (NJGD, PIA Caraga, with a report from the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur)
Thursday, 19 February 2026
For the win: Agusan Sur athletes boost training ahead of regional games in Surigao City
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur (PIA) — Agsurnon athletes continue to undergo intensive training at the Datu Lipus Makapandong Sports Complex (DLMSC) in the Government Center, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, with the support of the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS). The training, which began on February 9, is part of their preparation for the Caraga Regional Athletic Games (CRAG) set to take place in Surigao City from March 15-20, 2026.
The athletes are using the DLMSC as their main training facility as they prepare for various events such as para games, athletics, track and field, football, futsal, volleyball, gymnastics, aerobics, dancesport, swimming, and other sports. They also continue training for indoor sports and other events practiced in different municipalities across the province.
“Inside the DLMSC, ongoing training is being conducted for our chess event, while the rest of the sports events are held in schools or other identified playing venues. Some sports, like wushu and boxing, are held in Bayugan City as they require a more rigid training program,” said Rill Lagulao, sports development officer of PGAS.
Coaches closely guide their athletes during training sessions, observing their performance and identifying areas for improvement. Different styles and techniques are taught to ensure better results in CRAG 2026.
“I observe their movements, and once I assess them, that’s the time I plan drills to enhance their posture, frame, and overall execution in the modern standard category,” said Rezael Pagusara, Department of Education (DepEd) dance sport trainer. “In Latin, there are only a few improvements needed, especially in footwork, provided they are well-trained and ready.”
Each coach implements a different approach and training program for both individual and team sports. Team sports tournaments require a combination of high-level physical preparation, strategic planning, and a cohesive team culture.
“For our football players, we follow a cycle program. Every day, they focus on different skills such as dribbling, passing, ball control using different parts of the body, and shooting. These are part of their weekly routine,” said Gerry Peñaranda, football coach.
“We play football in different places and aim to complete 40 to 60 matches to build their confidence and refine their skills to achieve our goal at the national level,” he added.
The DLMSC is also accommodating athletes from different provinces in the Caraga Region for their training. The use of the facilities is carefully scheduled to avoid disrupting the training of AgSur athletes. March 2, 2026, is the tentative date for their departure to Surigao City. The winners of CRAG 2026 will represent the Caraga region in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa 2026 hosted by the province of Agusan del Sur. (KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur with a report from PTV Agusan del Sur)
Thursday, 19 February 2026
PhilHealth brings health services to Caraga parolees, probationers
By Mariesh F. Celedeña
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — True to its vision of ‘Bawat Pilipino Miyembro, Bawat Miyembro Protektado, Kalusugan ng Lahat Segurado,’ the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Caraga signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Parole and Probation Administration (PPA) Caraga, bringing inclusive healthcare coverage to parolees and probationers in the region.
The partnership that was signed on February 12 at SM City Butuan aims to extend healthcare coverage to parolees and probationers in the region, ensuring that they are enrolled as PhilHealth members and can avail themselves of benefits under the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP).
“Compared to the regular benefit packages of PhilHealth that can be availed of during hospital confinement, the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) focuses on outpatient primary care services. It promotes early detection of potential illnesses,” said Doctor Joel Arturo De Jesus, chief of the Healthcare Delivery Management Division.
De Jesus explained that YAKAP is an enhanced and improved version of the previous Konsulta Program, designed to strengthen preventive and primary healthcare services for members and now, including the parolees and probationers.
Through this collaboration, PhilHealth strengthens its commitment to universal health care by making health services more inclusive and accessible, especially to vulnerable sectors.
PhilHealth Caraga and the Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medical Center, Butuan City, signed a contract for the Z Benefit Package, which covers selected orthopedic implants and expands access to specialized health services.
Under the Z Benefit Package, PhilHealth provides financial risk protection for members requiring high-cost medical procedures, including selected orthopedic implant cases, thereby reducing out-of-pocket expenses and improving access to quality care.
This initiative of Philhealth Caraga under the leadership of Regional Vice President Michael Jibson C. Hernandez underscored the government’s continued efforts to promote social reintegration, while safeguarding the health and well-being of every Filipino. (MFC, PIA Caraga)
Thursday, 19 February 2026
Bayanihan SIM Project reaches learners in remote Surigao Sur communities
By Renelle L. Escuadro
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — A total of 1,184 beneficiaries, including students, teaching personnel, and non-teaching staff, received Bayanihan SIM cards from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Caraga’s Bayanihan SIM Project, reaching underserved communities in Surigao del Sur.
The January 26–27 distribution event served as the second leg of the project implementation in the region, covering six schools located in the municipalities of Cantilan, San Miguel, and Madrid.
Under the Bayanihan SIM (subscriber identity module) Project, the subsidized cards are distributed to qualified beneficiaries located within mobile network coverage areas.
Each SIM card provides 25 gigabytes of free mobile data per month for 12 months, with automatic monthly data spending and no data rollover. Content controls are applied to ensure a safe and child-friendly internet environment, particularly for student beneficiaries.
Also, beneficiaries or their authorized representatives are required to present valid identification, possess a compatible device, and complete onsite SIM registration in compliance with the SIM Registration Act.
Municipal officials expressed their gratitude for the initiative, recognizing its significant impact on the education sector since internet connectivity has become more of a necessity than a luxury for students today.
“With this, we can say that the taxes of the people are spent well. Thank you, DICT, for bringing this service to our municipality,” Madrid Mayor Juan Pablo Lopez said.
Meanwhile, DICT Caraga Director Mario P. Cuñado said that the Bayanihan SIM Project supports the government’s Digital Bayanihan thrust by promoting inclusive connectivity and enabling access to online learning and essential digital services.
“The Bayanihan SIM Project aims to bridge the digital divide in education and seeks to level the playing field for learners in remote areas by addressing the daily challenge of internet affordability. With improved connectivity, students and teachers gain equal opportunities to access online resources and participate in digital learning,” Cuñado said.
“For the Caraga region, a total of 66, 720 SIM cards have been allocated under the project. Phase 1 targets the distribution of 27, 800 SIM cards to approximately 60 public schools in underserved areas, while Phase 2 allocates an additional 38,920 SIM cards for beneficiaries in unserved areas,” Cuñado added.
He added that during the Jan. 20–22 leg, the project reached 17 public schools in the towns of Bacuag, Gigaquit, and Placer, all in Surigao del Norte, with 4,770 SIM cards distributed to teachers, students, and school personnel.
He noted that the recipients welcomed the initiative as the project has the potential to transform classroom instruction and administrative efficiency. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with a report from DICT Caraga)
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