TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Monday, 01 June 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

01 June 2026, Monday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Estrada surrenders to authorities following Sandiganbayan's arrest warrant for plunder

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

https://philstarlife.com/news-and-views/895917-estrada-surrenders-arrest-warrant-sandiganbayan-graft-plunder

2. PH-VIETNAM BILATERAL TALKS:

-Marcos, Vietnamese President To Lam deepen bilateral ties in Malacañang

-PH, Vietnam expand cooperation on defense, trade, digital transformation

-Vietnam calls off President To Lam’s meeting with Cayetano

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/6/1/marcos-vietnamese-president-to-lam-deepen-bilateral-ties-in-malca-ang-0923

3. Marcos, Rubio discuss WPS, Luzon corridor in ‘productive’ call

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

https://www.inquirer.net/476540/fwd-marcos-rubio-discuss-south-china-sea-luzon-corridor-in-productive-call/

4. VP DUTERTE IMPEACHMENT TRIAL:

-VP Sara must file impeach response today

-PNP: 2,000 cops to secure Senate for impeachment trial

-OCTA: 74% of Pinoys back Senate impeach trial for VP Sara

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

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/06/01/2531907/vp-sara-must-file-impeach-response-today

5. Pulong Duterte says Marcos owes 2022 win to VP Sara, Palace hits back

[Daily Guardian, Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar, Sunstar]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/989755/pulong-duterte-says-marcos-owes-2022-win-to-vp-sara-palace-hits-back/story/

6. DELA ROSA ICC ARREST ORDER:

-PNP has leads on Bato dela Rosa's whereabouts

-NBI subpoenas Aplasca, Padilla’s aid, uncle over dela Rosa escape

-Subpoena for Bato's wife not linked to manhunt – NBI

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

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/325585/cidg-says-it-has-leads-on-bato-dela-rosas-whereabouts

7. Brigada Eskwela 2026 starts; 240,000 workers tapped to prepare schools

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2237715/brigada-eskwela-2026-starts-240000-workers-tapped-to-prepare-schools

8. Typhoon Domeng exits Philippine Area of Responsibility; affects 85k in BARMM, causes P3.4 million in damages

[Daily Tribune, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/989737/domeng-affects-over-85-000-people-in-barmm-ndrrmc/story/

9. Death toll in Angeles building collapse now 13

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/regions/2026/6/1/death-toll-in-angeles-building-collapse-now-13-1405

10. Major rollbacks set for the 1st week of June

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

https://business.inquirer.net/593078/major-rollbacks-set-for-the-1st-week-of-june

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Monday, 01 June 2026

TESDA accredits DepEd’s first assessment center in Butuan City

By Mariesh F. Celedeña

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has accredited the Butuan City School of Arts and Trades (BCSAT) as the first Department of Education (DepEd) Assessment Center for Food and Beverage Services (FBS) NC II in the city division and Agusan del Norte, marking a significant step in strengthening skills certification and expanding employment opportunities for Filipino workers here and abroad.

The accreditation was formally recognized during the ceremonial handover of the Certificate of Accreditation led by TESDA Caraga Regional Director Florencio F. Sunico Jr., CESO III, and TESDA Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Rey M. Cueva on May 4.

Its core aim is to expand access to assessment and certification programs for senior high school learners in the technical-vocational-livelihood (TVL) track, allowing them to acquire industry-recognized qualifications even before graduation.

According to Director Sunico, the new assessment center will allow in-school assessment and certification, making TESDA services more accessible to learners, free from the costly travel that students outside the city had to bear.

He emphasized that NCs earned by learners are recognized both locally and internationally, helping graduates become more competitive for employment opportunities in hotels, restaurants, cruise lines, tourism establishments, and other hospitality industries abroad.

TESDA noted that globally recognized skills certifications continue to open pathways for Filipinos seeking overseas employment, particularly in countries with growing demand for skilled hospitality and food service workers. By providing accessible certification programs at the local level, more young Filipinos can qualify for higher-paying jobs and improve their chances of securing stable employment overseas. 

For graduates of Food and Beverage Services (FBS) NC II, the certification opens opportunities in hotels, restaurants, cruise ships, resorts, and other hospitality-related industries overseas, where skilled Filipino workers continue to be highly valued for their service excellence and professionalism. 

Meanwhile, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the number of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who worked abroad in 2024 was estimated at 2.19 million, an increase of 1.5 percent from the previous year’s estimated number of 2.16 million, highlighting the growing and continuing global demand for skilled Filipino workers across various industries, particularly in hospitality, tourism, and food services.

One of the important requirements that can help Filipinos qualify for overseas employment is the National Certificate (NC) issued by TESDA-accredited assessment centers. These certifications validate the competencies, skills, and industry readiness of learners, making them more competitive for jobs abroad. (MFC, PIA Caraga with a report from TESDA)

Monday, 01 June 2026

DSWD Surigao Sur aligns 4Ps exit planning with PBBM development agenda

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TAGO, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s national agenda on poverty reduction, human capital development, and inclusive growth, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga spearheaded this year’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Provincial Consultation Dialogue with Partners and Stakeholders cum Planning Workshop for the Strategic Exit of 4Ps Households. 

The activity, held on May 21 at the VFS Agri-Tourism and Adventure Park in Tago, Surigao del Sur, gathered key partners from local government units (LGUs), national government agencies (NGAs), and civil society organizations (CSOs) to strengthen convergence efforts in sustaining the gains of the 4Ps program and ensuring a smooth transition of graduating households toward self-sufficiency.

Anchored on the administration’s ‘no one left behind’ development agenda, the dialogue focused on reviewing commitments made during the initial 2026 planning of city and municipal intervention plans, finalizing strategic actions, and updating stakeholders on the current status of program implementation in the Caraga region.

Hazel Palasol of the Regional Program Management Office discussed the 4Ps exit context and the Enhanced Social Welfare and Development Indicator (SWDI) Tool. She emphasized that the initiative supports the Marcos administration’s broader goal of empowering Filipino families through education, livelihood opportunities, and access to essential social services, enabling them to break the cycle of poverty and achieve long-term stability.

The provincial government of Surigao del Sur, represented by Acting Governor Manuel Alameda Sr. expressed strong support for the initiative and reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining convergence programs that complement national efforts in strengthening social protection systems and community resilience.

One of the highlights of the activity was the testimonies shared by former 4Ps beneficiaries who completed their baccalaureate degrees and are now gainfully employed. They credited the program as a vital support system that helped them pursue education, secure employment, and improve their family’s quality of life.

“Bisan sa kalisud sa kinabuhi, wala gyud mi gipaundang sa among parents sa pag-eskwela,” (Despite life’s hardships, our parents never allowed us to stop going to school) shared one beneficiary.

“Through the 4Ps program, we were supported in education and health. School supplies became accessible, and maintaining our attendance in school became easier to achieve. More than just assistance, the 4Ps gave us dignity,” said Jeanrose A. Vista, who is currently serving as a municipal link in Carmen, Surigao del Sur.

Another former 4Ps beneficiary, Ailene Loria, a successful passer and Top 8 in the Criminologist Licensure Examination, also shared her struggles before becoming part of the program.

“Maraming struggles financially, especially sa pag-aaral. As a student before, lisod mag-focus sa study kung sige ka’g huna-huna sa problema sa kwarta ug sa adlaw-adlaw nga panginahanglan (There were many financial struggles, especially in studying. As a student before, it was difficult to focus on studies when you are constantly thinking about money problems and daily needs),” she said.

“But when our family became part of the 4Ps, slowly nagkaroon ng hope. Through the financial assistance and guidance from DSWD, nabawasan kahit paano ang aming mga alalahanin, especially on our basic daily needs,” she added.

Stakeholders also engaged in a planning workshop to identify gaps and strengthen coordination mechanisms, ensuring that interventions remain responsive, data-driven, and aligned with the needs of graduating households. Participants underscored the importance of sustained collaboration among LGUs, NGAs and CSOs in advancing development outcomes at the grassroots level.

As shared by Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) Chief Lilibeth Empedrad, the LGU of San Miguel continues to strengthen its support mechanisms to ensure that transitioning households will not return to poverty, sustain the positive impact of the 4Ps program, and continue becoming responsible and productive members of the community.

DSWD reiterated that the strategic exit process is not a withdrawal of support but a transition toward empowerment by equipping families with the necessary skills, opportunities, and linkages to sustain their progress beyond the program.

Meanwhile, 4Ps Provincial Operations Office (POO)-Surigao del Sur Provincial Link Meiraflor Cabigon discussed the province’s salient program accomplishments and encouraged LGU representatives to fully support convergence initiatives, particularly the Lahutay Tungha program, which assists children-beneficiaries who are at risk of dropping out of school by addressing non-compliance concerns in education.

Among those present during the dialogue were San Miguel Mayor Michael Corilla, Lanuza Mayor Algerio Irizani, Tago Mayor Jelio Val Laurente, Tandag City Ex-officio Member of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Charisse Valentine Pimentel-Pineda,  city and municipal social welfare and development officers, planning and development officers, and members of the Provincial Advisory Council (PAC).

The activity concluded with a renewed commitment from partners to further strengthen convergence efforts in line with the President’s vision of a “matatag, maginhawa, at panatag na buhay para sa bawat Pilipino.” (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur) 

Monday, 01 June 2026

DepEd secretary lauds Agusan Sur’s world-class sports facilities for Palarong Pambansa 2026

By Niña Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — “World-class.” That is how Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Juan Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara described the newly constructed playing venue of the provincial government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) as he tested it in a friendly basketball match between DepEd central and regional office heads.

“Sa ganda ng sports facilities, siguradong walang aayaw kapag nabigyan ng pagkakataong makalaro (With the outstanding sports facilities, I’m sure that no one will refuse when given the chance to play in it),” Angara said, expressing amazement at the meticulous planning and execution put into the sports arena.

He also paid tribute to the late Agusan del Sur Governor Democrito O. Plaza, who initiated the construction of the province’s massive 5,000-seating capacity sports complex decades ago. The facility has now become the official venue for the opening and closing ceremonies of the Palarong Pambansa 2026.

Plaza was also the visionary behind Agusan del Sur’s hosting of the country’s largest sporting event.

“Special tribute and recognition go to the late Agusan del Sur Governor Democrito Plaza, who decades ago initiated the construction of the sports complex in Prosperidad with the vision that one day it would host the Palarong Pambansa. Today, we are honored to stand with DepEd in helping turn that vision into reality—not only as the fulfillment of a long-held dream, but as a proud and meaningful milestone for the people of Agusan, showcasing their dedication, talent, and enduring spirit to the entire nation,” Angara expounded.

In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to enhance the country's sports infrastructure, Agusan del Sur invested heavily in the expansion and modernization of the D.O. Plaza Memorial Sports Complex for the 2026 Palarong Pambansa. Several new facilities were constructed to meet Olympic and NBA standards, including:

· Olympic-size Swimming Pool — 50m × 25m, 10 lanes with touchpads, separate diving pool, seating capacity: 1,500

· NBA-standard Basketball Gym — Hardwood court with retractable bleachers, seating capacity: 2,000

· Rhythmic Gymnastics Gym — Retractable bleachers, seating capacity: 800

· EOC Evacuation Center — Multipurpose facility with NBA-standard court, seating capacity: 2,000

· Football Field with Artificial Turf — 6,160 m² field integrated with athletics oval

· Commissary Building — Modern kitchen and function halls for athletes and officials

· Additional Courts & Fields — Tennis courts, baseball field, multipurpose covered courts

Athletes, coaches, and spectators have echoed Angara’s commendation, praising the extreme preparations made by Agusan del Sur to meet—and even exceed—the standards set by the Palarong Pambansa national board. Their collective feedback stands as a testament not only to the province’s readiness to host the games but also its determination to provide a truly world-class experience for the entire sporting community. (NJGD, PIA Caraga)

Monday, 01 June 2026

TUPAD backs national food security, creates jobs for Agusanons under Agusan Up!

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) – The implementation of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program in Agusan del Norte is reinforcing the national government’s food security and rural development agenda while creating immediate livelihood opportunities for hundreds of Agusanons.

A total of 436 beneficiaries from the municipalities of Buenavista, Nasipit, Carmen, and Las Nieves are currently employed under the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) TUPAD program through funds facilitated by Agusan del Norte Congressional Representative Dale B. Corvera, in partnership with Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante, under the Agusan Up! development campaign.

The initiative supports the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to boost local food production, expand rural employment opportunities, and strengthen community-based agricultural development as part of the administration’s push for inclusive economic growth and food sustainability.

Under the ‘Mapadayunong Tisuk’ campaign of the Plant! Plant! Plant!, a component of Agusan Up!, beneficiaries are engaged in planting cacao, coffee, vegetables, fruit-bearing trees, and other high-value crops in different parts of the province.

Each TUPAD beneficiary is entitled to 15 days of work with a daily wage of P475 or a total compensation of P7,125.

Of the total beneficiaries, 219 workers in Buenavista are involved in nursery management, pruning, and coffee production activities; 143 workers in Nasipit are engaged in cacao and vegetable planting; 96 workers in Las Nieves are focused on coffee and vegetable production; while 74 workers in Carmen are cultivating vegetables and fruit-bearing trees.

Rep. Corvera said the initiative demonstrates how government programs can provide both immediate assistance and long-term economic opportunities for communities. “This is not only a temporary source of employment but also a way to strengthen food production and improve the livelihood of our people in line with the direction of the national government,” Corvera said.

Gov. Amante emphasized that the province is maximizing government interventions by integrating emergency employment with sustainable agricultural programs aimed at long-term economic growth. “Our goal is not only to provide jobs but also to build a strong and sustainable agricultural industry that will create more income and opportunities for Agusanons,” Amante said.

Also, Mayor Roscoe Plaza of the  municipality of Nasipit highlighted the growing potential of the cacao industry in Nasipit as part of the province’s long-term agricultural and economic roadmap. “We are committed to positioning Nasipit as the province’s ‘Chocolate City’ through expanded cacao production and processing. This initiative will not only create jobs but also open more economic opportunities for our farmers and local communities,” Plaza said.

Melisa, a resident of Buenavista and one of the TUPAD beneficiaries, expressed gratitude for the assistance, saying the program has helped provide for her family while giving them an opportunity to contribute to the province’s agricultural development.

The current TUPAD cycle is expected to cover at least 125 hectares of agricultural land during the 15-day implementation period.

The Agusan Up! campaign aims to develop 12 priority industries and transform around 125,000 hectares of underutilized lands into productive agricultural areas through the Plant! Plant! Plant! and Process! Process! Process! programs.

Among the priority commodities identified are cacao in Nasipit, coffee and cassava in Las Nieves, commercial trees and coffee in Buenavista, and mangoes and other fruit crops in Carmen.

Nasipit is also being positioned as the province’s future ‘chocolate city,’ with Sitio Balaatan in Barangay Camagong eyed as a major cacao production and processing hub aligned with the province’s long-term agribusiness development roadmap.

Meanwhile, provincial officials said another round of TUPAD implementation is being rolled out in the municipalities of Remedios T. Romualdez, Magallanes, Tubay, Santiago, Jabonga, Kitcharao, and the city of Cabadbaran as the province continues to expand the reach of the Agusan Up! development campaign. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte with a report from the Office of Agusan del Norte Congressional Representative)