Sunday, January 18, 2026

DSWD collaborates with Siargao town for ‘Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program’

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga conducted exploratory meetings on this year’s implementation of the Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program (TBTP) with the local government unit of Del  Carmen on Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, to provide broader learning opportunities and boost literacy in the town.

Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program is a developmental and community-based social protection that aids low-income families and college students while empowering them to be involved in community development as tutors and youth development workers through cash-for-work. 

It also represents DSWD’s significant step in addressing literacy gaps while supporting local families in the town.

The TBTP team presented the objectives and key components of the program, including the cash-for-work scheme for college students, youth career development initiatives, literacy interventions for children, and the active role of parents in supporting learning at home.​

Meanwhile, the LGU expressed positive feedback and signified their readiness to further strengthen their partnership with DSWD Caraga.

Leonida, a mother of two primary school children and a resident of the town, was elated and looked forward to the implementation of said program. “Many of our children are still struggling to catch up with their reading and comprehension skills. Knowing that they will soon receive support through this initiative, it gives us great hope for their academic future.”

“We also appreciate how this program supports college students by providing them with opportunities to serve as tutors. We are ready to cooperate and support this program in any way we can to ensure its success for the sake of our children’s education,” she said. 

Meanwhile, DSWD Caraga initially launched in March 2025 the TBTP in the municipalities of Dapa and General Luna, both located on Siargao Island. They also distributed thousands of localized workbooks and ‘Nanay-Tatay’ modules to ensure that teaching materials are accessible and effective for family-beneficiaries. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from DSWD-Caraga)

Sunday, January 18, 2026

NCIP strengthens ties with Mamanwa tribe of Surigao Norte

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) in Surigao del Norte conducted a dialogue with the indigenous peoples (IP) of the Mamanwa tribe to strengthen ancestral ties, held in Barangay Bad-as, Placer on January 7. 

The dialogue acknowledged the role of the NCIP in upholding the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) to Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) and cultural preservation, motivating the younger generation of Mamanwa IP to take pride in their heritage, language, traditional governance, and economic empowerment. 

The participants further discussed sustainable livelihoods and how to manage resources within their ancestral lands to benefit the tribe directly, rather than relying on external entities. Also, they tackled the creation of a roadmap where legal land titles (CADTs) are seen not just as pieces of documents, but as living blueprints for cultural survival. 

NCIP Surigao del Norte Officer Andrew Salas said, “This dialogue demonstrates the Commission’s continued commitment to close coordination and strengthened partnership with the Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs)”.

He explained that the activity served as an important platform grounded with cultural sensitivity where key concerns, updates, and plans related to the Certificates of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) 048 were discussed, including a venue for open government and citizen participation in upholding the rights and the welfare of the IP communities in Surigao del Norte.

“NCIP Surigao del Norte looks forward to our new leadership and guidance as the Commission continues to advance the protection of ancestral domains, promote inclusive governance, and strengthen community empowerment across the province,” Salas added. 

Datu Rhanie expressed gratitude for the conduct of this dialogue. “This gathering is not just a meeting; it is a binding of our trust. We appreciate the NCIP’s commitment to walking the rugged paths to reach us, showing that our ancestral domain is respected and our voices carry weight in the halls of government.”

“This dialogue has replaced our doubts with clarity. We now see the NCIP not just as an office, but as a partner in protecting our heritage,” he said. 

This community engagement with the Mamanwa tribe established NCIP’s pivotal role in advancing the protection of ancestral domains, promoting inclusive governance, and strengthening community empowerment across the province of Surigao del Norte. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from NCIP Surigao del Norte)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Thursday, 15 January 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

As of 15 January 2026, Thursday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Recto faces new plunder complaint for illegal transfer of PhilHealth funds; Recto: Government has complied with SC ruling

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

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/recto-ledesma-face-criminal-complaint-philhealth-fund-transfer/

2. Marcos promises aid, accountability after Cebu landfill collapse; death toll rises to 23

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld,  DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, SunStar]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2168230/marcos-on-binaliw-landfill-collapse

3. Lacson says Bonoan gave Malacañang 'wrong' flood control data; Palace verifying alleged fake data

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, NewswatchPlus, Philstar, Rappler]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2168371/palace-on-bonoan

4. Contractor, 3 ex-DPWH officials now state witnesses in flood control cases

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, DZBB, GMA News, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/1/15/contractor-3-ex-dpwh-officials-now-state-witnesses-in-flood-control-cases-1438

5. PH, Japan sign military logistics pact amid growing defense ties

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Interaksyon, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, NewsWatchplus, Philstar, Rappler]

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/305683/ph-japan-sign-military-logistics-pact-amid-growing-defense-ties

6. PH announces 2-week visa-free policy for Chinese nationals

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Manila Bulletin, News5PH, Rappler]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/01/15/ph-announces-2-week-visa-free-policy-for-chinese-nationals

7. Philippines launches world’s first blockchain-based national budget

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

https://manilastandard.net/business/314691632/philippines-launches-worlds-first-blockchain-based-national-budget.html

8. DILG announces P10M bounty on Atong Ang; PNP requests Interpol red notice

[ABS-CBN News, Cebu Daily News, DZBB, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/01/15/news/p10m-bounty-placed-on-atong-ang/2259389

9. Radioactive zinc shipment in Philippines onshore in 'safe' location

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

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/climate-and-environment/2026/01/15/2501157/radioactive-zinc-shipment-philippines-onshore-safe-location

10. Fire hits DPWH records room in Baguio

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

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/luzon/fire-hits-dpwh-records-room-baguio/

11. Tropical Depression Ada maintains strength; 12 areas under Signal No. 1

[GMA News, ABS-CBN News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Philstar, News5PH, NewsWatchplus]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/weather/content/972923/ada-maintains-strength-as-12-areas-placed-under-signal-no-1/story/

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Thursday, 15 January 2026

DOLE capacity-building initiative promotes safe, rights-based workplace in Surigao Sur

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY (PIA) — Strengthening workers’ protection and fostering respect, rights-based workplace took a step forward as the Department of Labor and Employment – Surigao del Sur (DOLE-SDS) recently conducted a capacity-building initiative for employers and employees from the cities of Tandag and Bislig.

The activity, held at Sarah’s Function Hall in Barangay Bag-ong Lungsod, brought together around 60 participants from various establishments to enhance understanding of labor standards, occupational safety and health (OSH), and the Safe Spaces Act, key pillars in promoting decent work and inclusive economic growth.

DOLE-SDS Provincial Director Genebelle Bal said, “The initiative forms part of its preventive and developmental approach to labor governance, focusing on education and partnership to address workplace issues before they escalate into disputes. By equipping both employers and workers with practical knowledge of their rights and responsibilities, the activity aims to improve compliance, reduce workplace risks, and cultivate environments anchored on dignity, respect, and shared accountability.”

“Aligned with the national development agenda, the activity supports the promotion of decent work, the prevention of labor disputes, and the strengthening of partnerships with key stakeholders to build resilient and inclusive workplaces,” she added.

Central to the discussions was the Safe Spaces Act, which aims to prevent gender-based sexual harassment in workplaces, and public and private spaces. DOLE officials emphasized that fostering safe spaces goes beyond legal compliance; it is a vital investment in employee well-being, workplace harmony, productivity, and long-term workforce retention.

Sessions also covered fair employment practices and OSH standards, highlighting the shared role of management and workers in ensuring safe and healthy working conditions. DOLE speakers emphasized that adherence to labor standards contributes to stable labor-management relations and supports sustainable business operations.

The activity was conducted in partnership with the Social Security System (SSS), reinforcing the role of social protection in holistic worker welfare. Doris Gene L. Trujillo, senior analyst and concurrent CEO II of the SSS Accounts Management Section in Tandag, discussed employers’ responsibilities and SSS services, noting that access to social security helps protect workers and their families from financial shocks caused by illness, disability, or loss of income.

Meanwhile, Anthony R. Dumapias, senior labor and employment officer of DOLE-SDS, outlined key provisions of the Safe Spaces Act, including prohibited acts, employer duties, and preventive mechanisms to address harassment. Romelyn B. Bactol, senior labor and employment officer, discussed labor rights, obligations, and OSH standards, emphasizing that safe workplaces are built through continuous dialogue and cooperation between employers and employees. 

Participants expressed appreciation for the activity, noting that it strengthened their awareness of labor policies and encouraged more responsible workplace practices. Some shared that the discussions helped clarify procedures for addressing concerns and reporting violations, empowering both workers and employers to uphold workplace standards.

Through sustained investments in capacity-building and awareness, DOLE aims to foster safer work environments, enhance worker welfare, and contribute to sustained and inclusive economic development in Surigao del Sur and nearby areas. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)

Thursday, 15 January 2026

Butuan BJMP’s Oplan Baklas yields 1 ton of prohibited items

By Mariesh F. Celedeña

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The ‘Oplan Baklas’ of the city’s Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) has seized a ton of items prohibited inside the agency’s facility.

Jail Chief Inspector Diovin C. Auza, also the city jail warden of Butuan City Jail Male Dormitory (BCJMD), said, “We were able to confiscate an estimated one ton of nuisance contraband during the month-long conduct of Oplan Baklas, which aims to prevent the entry and circulation of prohibited and unauthorized items inside the facility.”

Chief Inspector Auza announced the achievement at the Oplan Baklas culminating activity held on Jan. 5. 

“Oplan Baklas is a preventive operation of the BJMP designed to maintain cleanliness, order, and discipline inside jail facilities,” he added.

Auza reported that BCJMD currently houses 435 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) and is operating at a 119-percent congestion rate. He expressed hope that the continuous implementation of Oplan Baklas will help ease congestion and improve the living conditions of PDLs.

He also shared that BCJMD will conduct semestral Oplan Baklas operations as part of its key strategies to decongest cells and common areas that accumulate excessive personal belongings due to overcrowding.

Jail Officer Alamm L. Acompañado of BCJMD said, Oplan Baklas differs from regular ‘oplan greyhound’, which focuses on seizing illegal or dangerous drugs and items. Oplan Baklas, specifically, targets nuisance contraband or prohibited items. 

“During the operation, we confiscated from PDLs items that are not illegal but unauthorized, such as excessive blankets, pillows, makeshift structures, and belongings left behind by released PDLs. Inside the facility, personal items are regulated to avoid excessiveness that may cause congestion and to maintain cleanliness.’

The BJMP emphasized its continued commitment to vigilance, discipline, and strict adherence to jail policies, ensuring a safe and orderly environment for both jail personnel and PDLs. (MFC, PIA Caraga with a report from BCJMD)