TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Monday, 13 April 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

13 April 2026, Monday

1.  Palace labels Imee’s statement on Marcos Jr.’s health as ‘fake news’

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, Inquirer, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/13/palace-labels-imee-s-statement-on-marcos-jr-s-health-as-fake-news-1319

2. Marcos expected to decide on fuel excise tax cut by Tuesday—Palace

[BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, Manila Bulletin, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/04/13/marcos-expected-to-decide-on-fuel-excise-tax-cut-by-tuesdaypalace

3. Senate PROTECT committee discusses gov’t interventions to oil crisis amid looming rollback

- Imee Marcos grills Sharon Garin over DOE's 2-day onsite work setup

-DepDev: P429B fund needed if Middle East conflict extends to December 

-DMW: 5,400 OFWs repatriated amid Mideast crisis

-Balisacan proposes lifting coal moratorium

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, News5PH, NewsWatchplus, Philstar, Rappler]

https://www.rappler.com/business/senate-protect-committee-hearing-oil-crisis-april-13-2026/

4. Despite oil price rollbacks: Manibela announces April 15–17 transport strike

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, News5PH, NewsWatchplus, Philstar, Mindanao Times]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2211182/manibela-sets-april-15-17-transport-strike-over-fuel-price-hikes

5. VP DUTERTE IMPEACHMENT:

-Sara Duterte’s husband seeks TRO vs subpoena for tax records — lawmaker

-Duterte supporters seek TRO vs VP Sara impeachment hearing

-Tinio: Duterte camp eyes Baste as ‘Plan B’ in 2028 polls

-Congressmen's call for VP Duterte to attend impeachment hearings grows louder

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/13/sara-duterte-s-husband-seeks-tro-vs-subpoena-on-tax-records-lawmaker-1443

6. Philippines says Chinese boats dumped cyanide near West PH Sea outpost

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

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/china-dumped-cyanide-near-west-sea-outpost/

7. AFP, US, Australia hold joint drills in West Philippine Sea

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

https://tribune.net.ph/2026/04/13/afp-us-australia-hold-joint-drills-in-west-philippine-sea

8. Navotas landfill fire under control but BFP unsure of its full extinguishment; DENR warns unhealthy air as haze spreads across Metro Manila

[ABS-CBN News, Business Mirror, GMA News, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, News5PH, Philstar, Rappler]

https://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/read/bfp-unsure-when-navotas-landfill-fire-to-be-fully-extinguished

9. Remulla apologizes over arrest of shirtless man, vows review of 'Safer Cities' implementation

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

https://mb.com.ph/article/10913615/philippines/national/sorry-na-pre-jonvic-blinks-orders-review-of-safer-cities-after-viral-topless-man-incident-in-mandaluyong

10. 4 more PNPA cadets identified in alleged hazing of underclassmen; Napolcom orders sweeping reforms

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, News5PH, SunStar]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/13/4-more-pnpa-cadets-identified-in-alleged-hazing-of-underclassmen-0850

11. Remulla: Manhunt vs Atong Ang, Roque continues

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

https://tribune.net.ph/2026/04/13/remulla-manhunt-vs-atong-ang-roque-continues

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Monday, 13 April 2026

No power rate spike in Dinagat Islands amid energy crisis

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — There will be no increase in power rates for 2026 in the Province of Dinagat Islands amid the energy crisis.

The Sangguniang Bayan (SB) of San Jose confirmed after the courtesy visit to the Dinagat Islands Electric Cooperative, Incorporated (DIELCO) on April 6 to address the public inquiry on possible power rate increase, concern on power shutdown, and assurance on sufficient fuel source to sustain the power supply in the off-grid province.

The courtesy visit was led by San Jose Vice Mayor Rechard T. Pasquil, together with SB members Clica C. Antipolo, Julmore T. Pesito, Felix Q. Portullano, Papias A. Tuquib, Ludwig B. Ecleo, and Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President Kim Valeri A. Tampon. They discussed significant updates with DIELCO Board of Directors President Eduardo Mas-ing, alongside Inspection Development Head Darilyn Josol, Manager Hector Tasil, and staff Sabiana Narvasa.

“In our meeting, DIELCO assured that the electric cooperative will not increase the power rate in the entire province for this year 2026, and its services to the public will be sustained,” Vice Mayor Pasquil said as he shared the good news.

With sources from three diesel power plants and two floating power barges, he added that DIELCO also confirmed that the National Power Corporation has sufficient fuel supply from an oil company to sustain electricity in the province. “DIELCO has a contingency plan in place and it continues to remain transparent to the member-consumers on electric charges and for any relevant updates.”

The official further requested the public to be vigilant and mindful in getting reliable sources of information, especially with the ongoing crisis in the Middle East that is affecting prices on food, petroleum products, among others. “Let us not immediately believe in any information circulating online. Please do not share without verification and fact-checking to prevent confusion and panic.”

Meanwhile, DIELCO with its mantra, ‘Pag-alagad nga matinud-anon, pagplambo sa Dinagatnon (sincere service for the progress of the Dinagatnon),’ remains committed even during challenging times in delivering the total rural electrification across the island province. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with a report from LGU San Jose)

Monday, 13 April 2026

DTI trains Surigao Norte cooperative on organic fertilizer production

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Surigao del Norte, through its Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), conducted a skills enhancement training on organic fertilizer production to members of the San Isidro Multipurpose Cooperative (SIMPUCO) in Barangay San Isidro, Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte. 

In coordination with partner agencies such as the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), the initiative forms part of the DAR’s project on Village-Level Farm-focused Enterprise Development (VLFED) and supports the ongoing implementation of the DAR-DTI-DOST Synchronized Plan that aims to boost agrarian reform beneficiaries’ (ARBs) income by turning agricultural cooperatives into thriving and value-adding enterprises. 

According to DTI Surigao del Norte, SIMPUCO has already taken steps in producing organic fertilizer using available agricultural by-products such as rice hulls, rice bran, poultry manure, and coconut husks. However, challenges in product quality, consistency, and the limited number of trained members highlighted the need for targeted capacity-building interventions.

It also shared that through this training, participants were given technical guidance on proper composting techniques, from collection and segregation of materials, shredding, mixing, and composting, to curing and packaging, ensuring improved processes and better-quality outputs.

The agency, which sees organic fertilizer production as a strategic opportunity to strengthen and complement the cooperative’s existing enterprises, added, “With an operational rice mill, a 1,000-head poultry farm, and a strong network of coconut and rice farmers, SIMPUCO generates substantial volumes of agricultural by-products and organic residues. Instead of going to waste, these materials can be transformed into valuable organic fertilizer inputs, creating a more sustainable, cost-efficient, and circular farming system that benefits all members.”

The session was facilitated by Ana Aishena B. Lakag, PCA-SDN staff and resource person, who shared her expertise in organic fertilizer production and quality management.  Participants, on the other hand, gained insights on quality control, efficient resource utilization, and improved enterprise practices. These learnings aimed to enhance product standards, increase market readiness, and expand participation among cooperative members.

In his message Joselito, one of the participants and member of SIMPUCO thanked the national government and expressed deepest gratitude for providing them with the invaluable opportunity to enhance their skills and sustainable farming practices.

“Through this initiative, you have not only taught us the technicalities of converting waste into ‘black gold,’ but you have also empowered us to become more self-sufficient and environmentally conscious entrepreneurs. The knowledge we have gained regarding composting, fermentation, and soil health is a powerful tool that will directly impact our livelihoods and the quality of our harvests,” he said. 

With strengthened skills and a clearer direction, SIMPUCO is now better positioned to improve its organic fertilizer production, maximize its resources, and support sustainable agricultural development in the community. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from CARP-DTI) 

Friday, 10 April 2026

DepEd school-based personnel thankful for FWA implementation amid fuel price surge

By Niña Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued an amendment to DepEd Memorandum (DM) No. 18, series of 2026, directing all school-based personnel to adopt a flexible work arrangement (FWA). 

Under the scheme, employees will report onsite for four days (Monday to Thursday) and work from home (WFH) every Friday, from April 10 to June 5, 2026.

The decision came a week after the end of school year (EOSY) 2025–2026 on March 31, the last teaching day for teaching personnel before the start of their uninterrupted vacation. 

However, non-teaching and teaching-related personnel were still obliged to report onsite due to their administrative functions.

Project Development Officer I Alona M. Colminas of Buenavista Central Elementary School in Agusan del Norte expressed relief upon learning of the directive, noting how the arrangement responds to their needs.

“Nalipay gyud mi, mga non-teaching personnel, kay finally naa mi ingon-ani nga opportunity. Mura bitaw ug breath of fresh air, knowing nga nakita pud mi ug nga dili lang man diay teachers ang working force sa DepEd. Naa paman diay non-teaching [personnel],” she said.

(We, non-teaching personnel, are very happy since finally, we have been given this kind of opportunity. It’s like a breath of fresh air for us knowing that we are seen and that people realize that DepEd’s workforce is not only composed of teachers, but us non-teaching personnel, as well.)

She also emphasized that the new work arrangement is a ‘win-win’ solution because this will be a big help to workers like her, as they can save money on transportation. The WFH scheme, in turn, will also help the school conserve energy and other utilities.

For School Head Carolyn Mayuga of the Butuan City SPED Center, the implementation of the FWA is a much-welcomed initiative by the DepEd since, besides the economic benefits it brings to their personnel, such an arrangement also has its health and environmental benefits.

“Based on our assessment, the one-day WFH will produce several positive results such as reduced commuting expenses and fuel consumption, lower exposure to traffic stress and fatigue, more time for instructional preparation and personal well-being, and environmental benefits through reduced carbon emissions,” she elaborated.

Mayuga likewise highlighted that as a leader, she understands the clamor of her subordinates in such a time of crisis. And so, upon hearing of the amended department order, she was more than happy to announce it to her colleagues.

“Since we are already gearing toward the digitalization of our processes, the WFH arrangement every Friday will no longer be an issue for us in terms of the timely submission of our deliverables.  We have already started to shift to paperless transactions, such as online reporting and the use of e-signatures. Virtual meetings have also been very useful for us. We just have this mutual agreement among ourselves to make sure that we are reachable whenever needed,” she further added.

With the ongoing fuel surge affecting household budgets and daily commutes, the FWA has become a source of relief for DepEd’s school-based personnel. By easing financial strain and supporting well-being, the initiative underscores the agency’s commitment to sustaining productivity while responding to the needs of its workforce in challenging times. (NJGD, PIA Caraga)

Friday, 10 April 2026

Gov’t cash aid reaches over 3,400 Surigao Sur drivers

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — In response to the ongoing energy and fuel crisis affecting public transportation nationwide, the government rolled out cash relief assistance to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers in Tandag City and Bislig City on Wednesday, April 8, as part of a nationwide effort to ease the financial burden on affected workers.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga distributed ₱5,000 cash relief assistance to qualified public utility vehicle drivers, including tricycle drivers under tricycle operators and drivers associations (TODA).

In Surigao del Sur, payout activities took place at the City Parkshed, City Hall compound in Barangay Awasian in Tandag City, and at the Poblacion gymnasium in Bislig City, benefiting drivers directly affected by rising fuel costs.

A total of 3,418 public utility drivers in Surigao del Sur are targeted to receive the assistance, including 1,349 beneficiaries in Tandag City and 2,069 beneficiaries in Bislig City, reflecting the scale of government support extended to transport workers in the province.

According to Chrislea Celeste, DSWD Caraga division chief, the assistance targets public utility drivers whose livelihoods have been significantly impacted by rising fuel prices. “Ang mga beneficiaries sa cash relief assistance ang mga public utility vehicle drivers: motor, jeep, ug bus drivers nga naapektuhan sa kasamtangang sitwasyon,” Celeste said.

(The beneficiaries of the cash relief assistance are public utility vehicle drivers: motorcycle, jeepney, and bus drivers – who are affected by the current situation).

She added that in Tandag City, the assistance specifically covers tricycle drivers under TODA. “We are specifically providing ₱5,000 to the TODA today here in Tandag City.”

Celeste also noted that the payout conducted on April 8 forms part of a synchronized nationwide distribution effort.

“The conduct today nahitabo sa tanang siyudad sa Region ug sa tibuok nasud. (The activity conducted today is being carried out in all cities in the region and across the entire country),” she said. 

While there are currently no specific instructions regarding additional payout schedules in Tandag City, Celeste said future distributions remain possible as the government continues to assess the needs of other public utility drivers.

“As to kanus-a or naa pa ba musunod, pwede tang moingon nga naa, pero dili pa ta kaestorya og specific, kay naa pa man tay public utility drivers sa mga munisipyo. (As to when or whether there will be additional payouts, we can say that there may be, but we cannot provide specific details yet because there are still public utility drivers in the municipalities who may be considered),” she explained.

Voices of beneficiaries

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the timely assistance, noting its direct impact on their daily livelihood.

Walter Olayon, one of the recipients, shared his appreciation for the government’s continued support for transport workers.

“Dako ko og pasalamat sa atong gobyerno nga wala gayud pasagdi ug nag-atiman gayud sa mga drivers. Sa DSWD usab nga maabtikon kaayo sa paghatag og ayuda,” Olayon said.

(I am very thankful to our government for never neglecting and truly taking care of drivers. I am also grateful to DSWD for being very proactive in assisting).

He added that the financial aid will help improve his livelihood and support his family. “Kini nga kwarta gamiton nako sa pagpaayo sa akong motor ingon man usab kung naay sobra makapalit og konsumo para sa ako pamilya. (I will use this money to repair my motorcycle, and if there is any remaining amount, I will use it to buy basic needs for my family.”

Another beneficiary, Julius Mainit, a tricycle driver from Tandag City, said the assistance provides much-needed relief amid rising fuel costs.

“Dako kaayo kini nga tabang sa ako isip usa ka tricycle driver, labina karun nga grabeh ang pagsaka sa presyo sa lana. Sa tinuod lang usahay maglisud gayud ko og pasada kay kulang ang kita para makapalit og gasolina,” Mainit said.

(This is a big help for me as a tricycle driver, especially now that fuel prices have increased sharply. Honestly, there are times when I struggle to operate because my earnings are not enough to buy gasoline).

He added that the assistance helps sustain his daily operations. “Maong dako gyud kini nga kahupayan sa akong adlaw-adlaw nga paningkamot, kay makatabang kini pagpatubil sa akong motor aron makapadayon ko sa pagpamasada.”

(This brings great relief to my daily efforts because it will help fuel my motorcycle so I can continue earning a living).

Government response to fuel crisis

The cash relief distribution is part of the national government’s immediate response to the continuing fuel and energy crisis, which has significantly increased transportation costs and reduced the daily earnings of public utility drivers across the country.

Public utility drivers remain among the most vulnerable sectors during fuel price surges, as rising operating costs directly reduce their take-home income. The ₱5,000 assistance aims to help cushion daily expenses, sustain livelihood operations, and ensure the continued delivery of essential transport services to communities.

Strengthening support for transport workers

The distribution in Surigao del Sur reflects the government’s broader commitment to supporting transport workers who play a vital role in maintaining mobility and economic activity in both urban and rural areas.

By extending direct financial assistance to PUV drivers, the national government aims to help stabilize household income, sustain public transportation services, and mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs on daily commuters.

As payout activities were conducted simultaneously across the country, initiatives like this demonstrate how targeted interventions help protect vulnerable sectors, sustain essential services, and strengthen resilience among transport workers amid ongoing economic and energy-related challenges. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)