TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Wednesday, 15 July 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

15 July 2026, Wednesday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Palace: Sara Duterte case extends beyond grave threats to national security

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/994924/palace-sara-duterte-case-extends-beyond-grave-threats-to-national-security/story/

2. Defense, prosecution start oral arguments on tax, bank records

-Senate urged to open Sara Duterte's tax, bank records; Defense says subpoena a 'weapon of fishing expedition'

-House prosecutors: Impeachment trial to test Duterte's fitness for office, not criminal guilt

-Prosecution drops Zuleika Lopez, Belinda Bello as witnesses

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/994941/truth-is-not-confidential-senate-urged-to-open-sara-duterte-s-tax-bank-records/story/

3. Unbothered: Marcos unfazed by survey ratings, stays focused on work — Palace

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

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/15/unbothered-marcos-unfazed-by-survey-ratings-stays-focused-on-work-palace

4. Marcoleta to be detained in QC jail; donors plead ‘not guilty’

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

https://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/read/marcoleta-to-be-detained-in-qc-jail-donors-plead-not-guilty

5. Sen. Imee hits Marcos admin for distancing from US plan to dismantle ICC

[Manila Bulletin, News5PH, One News, Sunstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/15/sen-imee-hits-marcos-admin-for-distancing-from-us-plan-to-dismantle-icc

6. Marcos names Sarmiento as gov't chief for MILF peace process

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

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/15/marcos-names-sarmiento-as-govt-chief-for-milf-peace-process

7. ‘Binabawasan talaga kami, iniisa-isa’: Cayetano says 2019 SEA Games probe aims to ‘intimidate’ him

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/7/15/-binabawasan-talaga-kami-iniisa-isa-cayetano-says-2019-sea-games-probe-aims-to-intimidate-him-1433

8. Move to drop Bonoan from graft, plunder raps submitted for resolution

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2264017/move-to-drop-bonoan-from-graft-plunder-raps-submitted-for-resolution

9. Reported death toll due to Inday, Habagat at 26 —OCD

[Daily Tribune, DZBB, DZRH, GMA News, Manila Standard, News5PH]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/994914/reported-death-toll-due-to-inday-habagat-at-26-ocd/story/

10. Slain American marine biologist’s partner, sibling persons of interest

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

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/330990/slain-american-marine-biologists-partner-sibling-persons-of-interest

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Wednesday, 15 July 2026

‘All-Lights Village’ program brings solar lights to IP communities in Surigao Sur town

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

SAN MIGUEL, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — For generations, families in the indigenous peoples (IP) communities in barangays Libas Sud and Bolhoon in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur relied on darkness once the sun set. Without access to the country’s electrification program, daily activities, children’s studies, and community safety remained a challenge.

That reality is beginning to change.

In a significant step toward inclusive development under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the barangays of Libas Sud and Bolhoon became the first communities in Mindanao to benefit from the program on ‘All-Lights Village: Where Light Brings Hope.’

The initiative was formally launched on July 2 through a partnership among the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the local government of San Miguel, and the Global Peace Foundation, marked by a ceremonial signing in Barangay Libas Sud.

As part of the project, 100 portable solar lights were distributed to beneficiary families, and solar-powered streetlights were installed in the two off-grid communities to provide safe, reliable, and sustainable lighting.

The project aims to improve residents’ quality of life by enhancing safety, mobility, and access to clean energy while bringing government services closer to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

For beneficiaries like Gena Tejero, the assistance represents more than access to electricity—it is the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream. Raised in the same community without electricity, she expressed gratitude that government services had finally reached their community.

“Dako among pasalamat sa mga nagpaluyo sa programa, ug hinaut nga mosunod na usab ang uban pang serbisyo para sa mga kabus” (We are deeply grateful to everyone who supported this program, and we hope more government services will continue to reach poor communities like ours), she said.

Another beneficiary, Lorena Bocales, a beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), said the solar lights would greatly improve the lives of families in the community.

“Sa ngalan sa among kumunidad, gusto namo ipaabot o ipadayag ang among kinasingkasing nga pagpasalamat sa tanan nga mitabang og naghatag kanamo og mga solar lights. Dako kaayo ni og tabang sa among kumunidad, labi na sa mga lugar nga kulang og suga sa gabie. Kini makahatag og dugang kauswagan, kahayag, og kasiguruhan sa matag pamilya” (On behalf of our community, we sincerely thank everyone who helped and provided us with these solar lights. This is a great help, especially in areas with little or no lighting at night. These will bring greater progress, brightness, and security to every family), she shared.

Bocales added that the community would take good care of the solar lights, especially the streetlights.

“Ug kining inyong gihatag kanamo nga mga solar lights, labina kadtong sa street lights, amo kining paga ampingan sama sa pag-amping sa among kinabuhi, kay usa kini nga naghatag og kahayag sa among kumunidad og sa among kaugalingon” (We will protect these solar lights, especially the streetlights, as we would protect our own lives because they bring light, safety, and hope to our community), she said.

Barangay officials also welcomed the initiative.

Punong Barangays Charlito Intas of Libas Sud and Gladys Mae Corilla-Cubero of Bolhoon, who also served as ex officio members of the Sangguniang Bayan, expressed their gratitude to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the local government of San Miguel, the provincial government of Surigao del Sur, and the Global Peace Foundation for selecting their communities as beneficiaries of the project. They also encouraged recipient families to properly use and maintain the solar lights to ensure that future generations will continue to benefit from the initiative.

The provincial government of Surigao del Sur, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), complemented the initiative by distributing school supplies to kindergarten learners in the community.

DSWD Caraga Director Mari-Flor A. Dollaga said the initiative demonstrates that no community is too remote to receive government services when agencies and development partners work together.

“Kini usa nga nagpamatuod nga kung magtinabangay ang gobyerno og ang pribadong sektor, wala jud kumunidad nga layo aron maabtan sa tabang og serbisyo” (This proves that when the government and the private sector work together, no community is too far to receive assistance and essential services), Dollaga said.

She added that Libas Sud and Bolhoon were fortunate to become the first beneficiaries of the program in Mindanao.

“This is the vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration and the leadership of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian that wherever people are in need, no matter how remote their community is, the government will reach them, listen to them, and respond with concrete action. The government is here, the DSWD is here, and we will continue bringing services to even the farthest communities so that no family will be left behind,” she emphasized.

The All-Lights Village: Where Light Brings Hope initiative reflects the national government’s commitment to expanding access to basic services and improving the lives of underserved communities through strong partnerships between government and the private sector.

For families in the communities, the solar lights illuminate more than their homes; they symbolize hope, opportunity, and the government’s commitment to ensure that development reaches even the most remote corners of the country, leaving no Filipino behind. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)  

Wednesday, 15 July 2026

Caraga minerals industry sustains environmental responsibility advocacy

By Susil D. Ragas

​SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The Caraga minerals industry gathered together to strengthen the advocacy campaign on sustained environmental responsibility, serving as a powerful demonstration of ecological commitment and collaboration. 

The convergence took place on June 30 in Surigao City, spearheaded by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Caraga in line with this year’s culmination program of Environment Month. 

It gathered stakeholders from across the Caraga minerals industry, serving as both a reflection of a month-long advocacy campaign and a rallying cry for sustained environmental responsibility.

The event was anchored on the theme, “Aksyon Klima, Bayanihang Mapagkalinga sa Kapaligiran” (Climate Action, Mutual Care for the Environment). 

OIC-Regional Director Francis Glenn N. Suante reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to environmental stewardship, responsible mineral resource development, and active stakeholder engagement. 

His address was particularly significant as it marked the continuation of the vision he championed during his tenure as chief of the Mine Safety, Environment and Social Development Division (MSESDD).

Now in his new role, Suante underscored the MGB Caraga’s ongoing mission and emphasized the Bureau’s dedication to sustainable development. His appointment symbolised a smooth transition, ensuring the consistent implementation of programs focused on environmental protection, responsible mining, and excellent public service. 

“Our commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible mineral resources development remains unshakeable. True progress lies in our ability to engage our stakeholders and protect our ecosystems simultaneously,” Dir. Suante said.

​To bridge the gap between complex environmental concepts and public awareness, and to highlight the celebration of three major competitions that were participated in by personnel from different mining companies, including eco-grazing board charcuterie, mining vlog, extemporaneous speaking, and the search for Ginoo at Binibining Kalikasan 2026.

Meanwhile, on behalf of the mining industry, CREDO (Community Relations, Education and Development Officers Organization, Inc.) Caraga President Rudilyn Velasco said,   “This year’s Environment Month theme reminded us that the actions we take today will shape the future we leave for tomorrow. Protecting our environment is a shared responsibility – one that calls for collective action, commitment, and compassion.”

She said that awareness is the first step, but continuous learning and meaningful action are what truly empower us to address the growing challenges of climate change. Every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a lasting, positive impact.

Velasco added, “Together, let us build resilient and sustainable communities, united in our commitment to safeguard our planet for our children and for generations yet to come. Through the spirit of bayanihan, we can turn climate action into a shared mission and create a future where both people and nature thrive.” 

She told the audience ​that the engagement amplified the voices of the Caraga minerals industry, reframing stakeholders not just as operators, but as proactive educators and climate change advocates.

​As the 2026 Environment Month Culmination concluded, the message resonated that environmental protection is a shared, ongoing responsibility. Through this event, MGB Caraga reaffirmed its dedication to empowering local communities, enforcing rigorous regulatory standards, and cultivating a deep-seated culture of environmental awareness.

​By strengthening partnerships between the government, private sector, and host communities, Caraga’s mining industry continues to pave the way toward a more resilient, sustainable, and climate-conscious future. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from MGB Caraga) 

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Tuesday, 14 July 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

14 July 2026, Tuesday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Sara Duterte maintains kill plot vs Marcos not supported by evidence

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2263453/sara-duterte-maintains-kill-plot-vs-marcos-not-supported-by-evidence

2. Palace: PH not involved in US plan to dismantle ICC

[Daily Tribune, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, Philstar]

https://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/read/palace-ph-not-involved-in-us-plan-to-dismantle-icc

3. Sara Duterte to support Lopez on Day 5 of impeachment trial – Defense

-'Galingan niyo pa ng konti': Ridon trash talks VP Duterte defense team

-Duterte 'death threat' alone can justify impeachment, alleged hitman need not be proven–Chua

-DOJ: Probe on complaints vs Sara Duterte to be resolved ‘at appropriate time’

-Duterte's defense team appoints additional spokesman

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/7/14/duterte-death-threat-alone-justifies-impeachment-hitman-need-not-be-proven-chua-1218

4. Marcos inaugurates world's largest solar farm facility

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

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/07/14/news/marcos-inaugurates-worlds-largest-solar-farm-facility/2383806

5. PBBM satisfaction rating improves in latest SWS survey

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, One News]

https://manilastandard.net/news/314765408/pbbm-satisfaction-rating-improves-in-latest-sws-survey.html#google_vignette

6. Baligod faces arrest over cyberlibel complaint filed by DA chief

[ABS-CBN News, Businessmirror, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, News5PH, Philstar]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/994740/levi-baligod-arrest-warrant-cyber-libel-case/story/

7. Marcos orders proposed 2027 budget to prioritize implementation-ready projects

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/994799/funding-budget-projects/story/

8. New threat shuts Tacloban school hit by mass shooting

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2263231/new-threat-shuts-tacloban-school-hit-by-mass-shooting

9. Detained Marcoleta taken to PGH for medical evaluation

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

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/07/14/2542094/detained-marcoleta-taken-pgh-medical-evaluation

10. Josie weakens ahead of PAR exit; new LPA forms off southern China

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/weather-traffic/2026/7/14/josie-weakens-ahead-of-par-exit-new-lpa-forms-off-southern-china-1206

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Tuesday, 14 July 2026

NNC Caraga calls on families to grow, eat nutritious food for a healthier future

By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur —  Nutrition Officer III Leah Vina P. Vargas of the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Caraga encouraged Filipino families to make eating together at home a regular practice and establish backyard food gardens to produce their own nutritious vegetables, during the Kapihan sa PIA at SM City Butuan.

She emphasized that growing vegetables at home not only provides families with healthier food options but also contributes to environmental conservation by promoting sustainable food production and reducing food waste. Vargas added that teaching children the value of healthy eating and gardening is an investment in building a healthier future generation.

“We encourage everyone to eat at home and eat with your family. Establish backyard food gardens with four to five varieties of vegetables. This practice helps improve household nutrition, protects the environment, and reduces waste from buying food outside,” Vargas said.

Vargas also called on schools and educational institutions to strengthen nutrition education among learners by promoting healthy eating habits and raising awareness on the importance of proper nutrition, including breastfeeding as a vital component of child development.

She likewise encouraged government agencies, private organizations, and development partners to champion healthy eating in workplaces, establish office and household food gardens, and provide nutritious food choices for employees. According to Vargas, these collective efforts can help improve nutrition outcomes while supporting environmental sustainability and the goals of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN).

NNC’s mandate directly aligns with that of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a healthier Philippines through the provision of proper nutrition and food security, especially for vulnerable sectors of society, such as children.

“Our dinner table and ecosystems are all interconnected, which means that we cannot cultivate a healthy population on a sick planet. Our well-being mirrors the vitality of our surroundings,” President Marcos Jr. said in his message during the opening of the 2026 National Nutrition Month.

His message underscored the strong connection between environmental protection and food security, in line with this year’s National Nutrition Month theme, ‘Sa PPAN: Sama-sama sa Nutrisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat!’ and sub-theme, ‘Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan!’

Through this year’s Nutrition Month celebration, the NNC continues to advocate for stronger collaboration among families, communities, schools, government agencies, and the private sector in promoting healthier lifestyles while protecting the environment, recognizing that food security and a healthy ecosystem go hand in hand. (KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur)