TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Tuesday, 31 March 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

31 March 2026, Tuesday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Palace: Half day WFH for gov't workers on Holy Wednesday; afternoon off

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/982033/gov-t-employees-to-observe-half-day-work-from-home-on-april-1-palace/story/

2. Marcos to spend Holy Week in Ilocos Norte

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

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/31/marcos-to-spend-holy-week-in-ilocos-norte

3. Palace on Imee Marcos’ failure to guide her brother: ‘Who misbehaved?’

[GMA News, Inquirer, News5PH, Philstar, Manila Standard] https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2204329/palace-on-imee-marcos-failure-to-guide-her-brother-who-misbehaved

4. Marcos opens new expressway in Nueva Ecija, announces free toll until December

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

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/03/31/news/marcos-opens-new-expressway-in-nueva-ecija-announces-free-toll-until-dec/2311033

5. Palace: Marcos ordered Iran talks to secure Strait of Hormuz passage

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

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/03/31/2518109/marcos-pursue-talks-iran-strait-hormuz-passage

6. BSP sees inflation climbing to 3.1 to 3.9 pct in March

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Manila Bulletin, News5PH] https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/business/2026/3/31/bsp-sees-inflation-climbing-to-3-1-to-3-9-pct-in-march-1140

7. ‘Hoy, gising!’ Palace defends ICI work; flood control cases moving

[Inquirer, News5PH, NewsWatchplus, Philstar]

https://www.newswatchplus.ph/2026/03/31/hoy-gising-palace-defends-ici-work-flood-control-cases-moving/

8. Herbosa, 16 other DOH officials face graft complaints over P1.4-B expired, undelivered meds

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer] https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/3/31/herbosa-16-other-doh-officials-face-graft-complaints-over-p1-4-b-expired-undelivered-meds-1536

9. AFP flags 90 Chinese vessels in WPS in March

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

https://manilastandard.net/news/314722205/afp-flags-90-chinese-vessels-in-wps-in-march.html

10. HOLY WEEK EXODUS, SECURITY

-PNP now on full alert; gov't agencies join forces for safe Holy Week travel

-Volume of passengers builds up in Cubao bus stations, Naia on Holy Tuesday

-PNP assists LTFRB vs illegal fare increases

-DPWH pauses road work projects to give way to Holy Week exodus

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Standard, Manila Bulletin, Philstar, RMN News]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/03/31/pnp-now-on-full-alert-govt-agencies-join-forces-for-safe-holy-week-travel

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Tuesday, 31 March 2026

Former rebels in Agusan Norte gain security pass under Amnesty program

By Nora L. Molde

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) —  Sixty-two former rebels, or friends rescued (FRs) in Agusan del Norte received their Safe Conduct Passes (SCPs) from the National Amnesty Board through the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) Butuan during a ceremony at the Kalayaan Hall of the 402nd Brigade, Philippine Army, this city.

The issuance of SCPs, held on March 26, underscored the government’s sustained efforts to facilitate the smooth reintegration of former rebels into mainstream society by restoring their civil mobility, improving access to opportunities, and ensuring legal protection, aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to promote lasting peace through inclusive and humane approaches under the national amnesty program.

The Amnesty program was strengthened following the President’s signing of proclamations granting freedom to former members of rebel groups, aimed at encouraging them to return to the fold of the law, rebuild their lives, and contribute to national development.

Local Amnesty Board (LAB) Butuan chairperson and regional prosecutor, Attorney John Magdaraog, emphasized that the SCP serves as a safeguard against arrest and detention for past offenses covered under the amnesty process, allowing beneficiaries to move forward without fear.

“Your SCPs guarantee that you are now safe from possible arrest and imprisonment, but you have to do the right thing and never violate the law. You can now go to places freely, return home to your families, and start a new life with them,” he said.

With the SCP, beneficiaries can travel freely, seek employment, and access government services through key enablers for economic reintegration and social normalization.

For alias ‘Lynlyn,’ the SCP has brought a renewed sense of security and stability. “I can now move freely and have peace of mind. This is a big help to me. I no longer live in fear of being arrested and imprisoned for the mistakes I made in the past.”

Now employed in the government office of Agusan del Norte, Lynlyn added that the document has opened opportunities for her to live productively. Her husband, who earlier received his SCP, is currently serving as a member of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) under the 29th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, demonstrating how the program enables former rebels and their families to actively contribute to community security and development.

Meanwhile, LAB Butuan Secretariat, Attorney Rey Malvin Pallomina, reported that as of March 26, a total of 155 individuals in the province have been issued SCPs, along with one approved amnesty grantee, indicating steady progress in the implementation of the government’s amnesty program.

He added that 556 individuals have applied for SCPs in the province, with 169 applications currently being processed and 232 filed this year. Across the Caraga region, 347 individuals have already been granted SCPs.

Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante, represented by Doctor Silver Joy Tejano, underscored that beyond legal protection, the SCP is a pathway toward transformation and a concrete realization of the national government’s peace agenda.

“The SCP is not just a document that allows you to move freely, it is an opportunity to change your future and a gateway toward your transformation and reintegration into society,” Gov. Amante said. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

Tuesday, 31 March 2026

Butuan City bolsters ‘Panaad’ preparations

By Mariesh F. Celedeña

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) - With the increasing number of devotees expected to visit Barangay Anticala during the Holy Week, the city government of Butuan has intensified its security preparations for this year’s Panaad.

Panaad, or vow, is an annual religious pilgrimage every Good Friday, where devotees express their devotion to Jesus through his Passion, Death, and Resurrection. Some devotees join the Panaad as a form of repentance. It usually starts between 2 and 3 a.m., covering a 5-kilometer walk. 

The Butuan City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (CDRRMD) is set to raise its alert status to “Blue Alert” during the observance of Holy Week.

This measure enables the CDRRMD, along with its member agencies, to heighten preparedness and intensify monitoring efforts. Response clusters will be placed on standby to ensure immediate action in case of emergencies or unforeseen incidents.

CDRRMD Department Head Mark Yap reminded devotees planning to participate in Panaad 2026 to take necessary precautions amid the expected high temperatures. “Always remember to bring your own water to stay hydrated during the walk, and carry an umbrella, especially since PAGASA has recorded high heat index levels in the city in recent days. Also, do not forget to unplug appliances and turn off electricity at home to prevent possible fire incidents.”

From March 22 to 26, the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) recorded a heat index ranging from 37°C to 38°C. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat may lead to heat cramps and heat exhaustion, which can progress to heat stroke if not properly addressed.

“For emergency concerns, do not hesitate to contact our Emergency Operations Center at 0921-768-7287,” Yap added.

In addition, Acting City Director, Police Colonel Restituto P. Lacano Jr., of the Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) announced that police visibility will be intensified across the city. Personnel will be strategically deployed to transport terminals and key public areas to ensure the safety of traveling Butuanons and to maintain peace and order throughout the observance.

He further emphasized that comprehensive security measures will be implemented, including focused deployment in Sitio Mahayahay, Barangay Anticala, the application of effective crowd management strategies, and heightened emergency response readiness during Holy Week.

“BCPO assures the community of its full commitment to maintaining peace and order, ensuring that Panaad 2026 will be celebrated safely and successfully,” said Dir. Lacano. (MFC, PIA Caraga, with a report from Butuan CDRRMD and BCPO)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Monday, 30 March 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

30 March 2026, Monday, 5:00 p.m.

1. Marcos opens Cavitex-C5 segment, toll-free access until end-April

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

https://www.newswatchplus.ph/2026/03/30/marcos-opens-cavitex-c5-segment-toll-free-access-until-end-april/

2. ‘Walang ipamimigay’: Palace says no West Philippine Sea compromise in potential oil exploration with China

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessMirror, Daily Tribune, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News, Philstar, Rappler]

https://www.inquirer.net/471486/ph-china-reset-talks-on-sea-tensions-oil/

3. Enough until June: Petron acquires 2.48M barrels of crude oil from Russia

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

https://business.inquirer.net/582453/enough-until-june-petron-acquires-2-48m-barrels-of-crude-oil-from-russia

4. BARMM execs condemn ambush that killed 5 cops; PNP eyes retaliatory attack in terror group’s Maguindanao ambush

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2203289/barmm-execs-condemn-ambush-that-killed-5-cops

5. HOLY WEEK EXODUS:

-Travelers face crowds, higher fares at terminals on Holy Monday

-No Holy Week 'carmageddon?' Fuel crisis takes bite off Holy Week travel exodus

-PITX logs over 51,000 passengers on Holy Monday morning; Number of Holy Week travelers likely to peak on Wednesday

-MMDA allows provincial buses on EDSA for Holy Week 2026 exodus

-MRT, LRT to suspend operations during Holy Week

-CAAP places airports on heightened alert for Holy Week

-PNP beefs up deployment to 59,000 cops for Holy Week 2026

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/981864/travelers-face-crowds-higher-fares-at-terminals-on-holy-monday/story/

6. SC junks Roque’s petition vs. Quad Comm over POGO inquiry

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

https://manilastandard.net/news/crime-courts/314721898/sc-junks-roques-petition-vs-quad-comm-over-pogo-inquiry.html

7. Manufacturers to defer price hikes until April 16

[BusinessMirror, DZBB, GMA News, Malaya, Manila Times, Panay News, Sunstar]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/03/30/news/national/manufacturers-to-defer-price-hikes-until-april-16/2310067

8. Dy orders urgent joint hearings on Middle East crisis impact

[Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, New5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/read/dy-orders-urgent-joint-hearings-on-middle-east-crisis-impact

9. 8 bus firms to face sanctions over illegal fare hikes; DOTr threatens sanctions over illegal bus fare hikes

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2203519/8-bus-firms-face-sanctions-over-illegal-fare-hikes

10. Bersamin, Olaivar face complaints for alleged flood control corruption

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

https://www.newswatchplus.ph/2026/03/30/bersamin-olaivar-face-complaints-for-alleged-flood-control-corruption/

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Monday, 30 March 2026

Surigao Sur anti-illegal drug campaign gains ground

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — To strengthen the nationwide campaign against illegal drugs under the leadership of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the provincial government of Surigao del Sur continues to intensify efforts to build safer and drug-resilient communities through strengthened collaboration with law enforcement agencies and local stakeholders.

During the 1st quarter 2026 meeting of the Surigao del Sur Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC), Governor Johnny T. Pimentel reaffirmed the province’s commitment to support anti-drug operations and sustain community-based interventions against illegal drugs.

Data presented by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Surigao del Sur showed significant progress in the province’s anti-drug campaign. Out of 310 barangays in Surigao del Sur, 163 barangays have been declared drug-cleared, while 21 barangays are classified as drug-free, reflecting the sustained efforts of local government units and partner agencies in addressing illegal drug activities.

However, 126 barangays remain drug-affected, highlighting the continuing challenge faced by authorities and communities. To further strengthen rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives, 15 community-based drug rehabilitation programs (CBDRP) in the province have been accredited by the Department of Health, supporting individuals in recovery and helping them reintegrate into society.

PDEA also reported that 63 barangays applied this year for retention of their drug-cleared status, underscoring the commitment of local communities to maintain drug-free environments through sustained monitoring and preventive programs.

Governor Pimentel emphasized that the fight against illegal drugs requires unity among government agencies, communities, and stakeholders.

“The fight against illegal drugs is not just a duty of the government; it is a shared responsibility that calls for unity, vigilance, and genuine care for our people,” Gov. Pimentel said during the council meeting.

As part of the province’s continued support to law enforcement, the governor confirmed approval of the request for an operational vehicle to strengthen the mobility and response capability of PDEA personnel conducting anti-drug operations within the province.

Meanwhile, authorities continue to intensify enforcement actions to deter illegal drug activities. On March 20, a joint anti-drug operation conducted by the PDEA Caraga in coordination with the Tagbina Municipal Police Station resulted in the successful arrest of a 45-year-old male suspect, identified as a school official in Tagbina.

Authorities highlighted the significance of the arrest, noting that the involvement of individuals holding positions of influence poses serious risks to public trust and the welfare of communities, particularly among the youth.

According to PDEA Caraga Director Laurefel Gabales, the operation underscores the importance of vigilance and accountability in public service.

“This development highlights the importance of vigilance and accountability in public service. Positions of authority must never be used to undermine the law or endanger the community,” Dir. Gabales said.

The suspect was properly apprised of his constitutional rights and is currently under police custody, facing charges for violation of Section 5, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, Section 5, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, penalizes the illegal sale, delivery, and distribution of dangerous drugs.

These developments align with the national government’s strengthened anti-drug strategy under the current administration of President Marcos Jr., which focuses not only on law enforcement but also on prevention, rehabilitation, and community engagement. Through sustained coordination among national agencies, local government units, and community partners, the government continues to reinforce its commitment to protect communities, especially the youth, from the harmful effects of illegal drugs.

As Surigao del Sur moves forward with its anti-drug initiatives, the combined efforts of national leadership, provincial support, and community participation highlight a shared vision of building safer, healthier, and drug-resilient communities across the country. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)