(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Wednesday, 13 May 2026) Easterlies affecting the country. Easterlies ang makaapekto sa rehiyon sa Caraga.



Wednesday, 13 May 2026

Surigao Sur pushes for stronger network of healthcare providers  

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA)  The government leaders, health professionals, and policymakers in the province of Surigao del Sur recently convened at the Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center (ASTMMC) in Tandag City to advance efforts toward a more connected and patient-centered healthcare system through the proposed establishment of a Health Care Provider Network (HCPN). 

The initiative supported the national government’s Universal Health Care agenda to bring quality healthcare services to every Filipino, especially those in underserved communities.

As support to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for an inclusive healthcare system across the country, it addresses the daily challenge of many families in remote and geographically isolated communities in the province as patients often travel long distances, transfer from one facility to another, and undergo repeated consultations before receiving proper medical attention, resulting in additional expenses and delayed treatment. 

The meeting, held on April 30, was led by the Multi-Sectoral Governance Council (MSGC), chaired by 1st District Congressional Representative Romeo S. Momo Sr., bringing together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss ways to make healthcare services more connected, accessible, and patient-centered.

During the meeting, Maricar O. Jumamil, RN, senior health program officer of the Department of Health Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga, presented the province’s progress in implementing the Universal Health Care (UHC).

She said that while healthcare facilities and systems are already operating in the province, many services remain disconnected from one another. Rural health units, hospitals, and specialized care facilities often work separately. This system is causing delays in referrals, hospital overcrowding, and difficulties for patients seeking continuous treatment.

Health officials emphasized that the Health Care Provider Network will help address these gaps by linking healthcare facilities into one coordinated system. Under the proposed network, primary care facilities will serve as the first contact for patients, while hospitals and specialists will handle cases requiring advanced treatment.

The system also aims to improve patient referrals and information sharing among healthcare facilities, ensuring that patients receive proper care without unnecessary delays or repeated procedures.

Health experts said that through an integrated network, patients in far-flung barangays will have clearer access to medical services, reducing travel burdens and out-of-pocket expenses.

As part of the discussion, Dr. Jacqueline Frances Momville, provincial health officer II from Agusan del Sur, shared experiences in developing the province’s healthcare provider network.

She highlighted the importance of cooperation among local government units, healthcare providers, and institutions for the success of integration. She also acknowledged that challenges, such as limited resources and system adjustments, are part of the process. These can be addressed through strong commitment and collaboration.

The sharing of Agusan del Sur’s experience gave Surigao del Sur leaders practical insights and a working model that may guide the province in building its own integrated healthcare system.

Meanwhile, Dr. Janice V. Pagaran-Alcordo, chief of the Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center (ASTMMC), underscored the importance of compassionate and people-centered healthcare services. She emphasized that healthcare reform goes beyond improving systems and facilities, and must also ensure that patients are guided, respected, and receive proper care throughout their medical journey.

For many residents, especially those living in geographically isolated areas, the proposed healthcare network may bring significant improvements. Among the expected benefits are shorter patient waiting and referral times, decongested hospitals, lower medical expenses, stronger emergency response systems, and better continuous care for patients with long-term illnesses.

Health officials acknowledged that building an integrated healthcare system will require continuous coordination, funding support, policy alignment, and cooperation among stakeholders. However, they expressed optimism that the province is moving toward a more efficient and connected healthcare system.

The meeting also showed government commitment to strengthen public health services and ensure that no Surigaonon is left behind in accessing healthcare.

With the planned establishment of the Health Care Provider Network, Surigao del Sur is taking a major step toward achieving a more responsive, accessible, and patient-centered healthcare system aligned with the goals of Universal Health Care and the national development agenda. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)

Wednesday, 13 May 2026

Repatriated OFWs from Middle East receive assistance from DMW 

By Nora L. Molde

Repatriated OFWs affected by the Middle East crisis participate in the ‘Kumustahan’ session facilitated by DMW Caraga, held on April 28, 2026, in Butuan City, providing a safe space for sharing experiences, emotional healing, and reintegration support. The activity is part of the government’s continuing commitment to help returning OFWs rebuild their lives through psychosocial interventions, financial literacy, and livelihood assistance programs. (Photo courtesy of DMW Caraga)

BUTUAN CITY (PIA)   Repatriated overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from various parts of the Caraga region, particularly those displaced and affected by the recent crisis in the Middle East, received comprehensive government assistance through the intensified reintegration and welfare programs of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Caraga.

The assistance included psychosocial interventions, financial aid, livelihood support, entrepreneurship training, healthcare orientation, and housing opportunities to help returning OFWs recover from displacement abroad and rebuild stable lives with their families and communities.

Fifty-five repatriated OFWs participated in the ‘Kumustahan’ session and Financial Awareness Seminar and Small Business Management Training (FAS-SBMT) conducted on April 28 at the DMW Caraga Conference Hall. The activity forms part of the national government’s strengthened reintegration efforts under the directive of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to provide responsive, people-centered, and sustainable support mechanisms for OFWs affected by global crises and emergencies.

The whole-day activity provided returning workers with emotional support and practical guidance as they transitioned back into life in the Philippines. Through activities such as Color Your Day, ‘Kwento Mo, Mahalaga,’ and ‘Balik-Loob, Balik-Tiwala,’ OFWs were encouraged to process their experiences, share reintegration challenges, and regain confidence after their difficult situations abroad.

DMW Caraga Regional Director Ritchel M. Butao emphasized that the government’s assistance extends beyond repatriation and emergency rescue operations.

“Under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Department of Migrant Workers continues to strengthen reintegration programs to ensure that our OFWs are not left behind after repatriation. Through psychosocial support, financial education, livelihood opportunities, and government convergence services, we aim to help them recover, regain stability, and start anew with dignity and hope,” Butao said.

The repatriated OFWs also benefited from financial literacy sessions, investment orientation, insurance education, entrepreneurship mentoring, ‘kabuhayan’ or livelihood loan programs, and Cash Agad services conducted in partnership with BDO Unibank and BDO Network Bank

The training equipped participants with practical knowledge on savings management, small business development, and sustainable income generation, enabling them to explore alternative livelihood opportunities upon their return home.

Government partner agencies under the National Reintegration Network (NRN), including PhilHealth, SB Corporation, and Pag-IBIG Fund, also presented programs and services available to OFWs and their families.

Among the interventions introduced were PhilHealth’s YAKAP, enterprise and livelihood loan assistance from SB Corporation, and the Pag-IBIG MP2 savings program, all intended to help returning OFWs restore financial security and long-term stability after displacement abroad.

Meanwhile, DMW Caraga’s Quick Response Team (QRT), in coordination with OWWA Caraga and partner local government units, also provided airport assistance services to five repatriated OFWs who arrived at Bancasi Airport in Butuan City on April 29, 2026.

The OFWs received immediate assistance, transport coordination, family reunification support, and proper endorsement to concerned local government units and agencies to ensure their safe return to their respective provinces. Two OFWs were endorsed to the local government of Gingoog City through its Public Employment Service Office for additional reintegration support, and three others were assisted by OWWA Caraga personnel for onward travel arrangements.

“Our repatriated OFWs deserve immediate care and continued assistance from the government. We want them to feel that they are valued, protected, and supported as they reintegrate into society and reunite with their families,” Butao added.

On April 30, DMW Caraga expanded its reintegration initiatives through another National Reintegration Network session featuring PhilHealth’s YAKAP and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development’s Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.

The activity benefited 28 OFWs and their family members who gained access to healthcare support information and affordable housing opportunities under the government’s social protection initiatives aligned with the administration’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda.

During the same activity, DMW Caraga facilitated the release of the assistance under the Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFWs na Nangangailangan (AKSYON) Fund amounting to P1.85 million to 21 OFW beneficiaries from Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, and Surigao del Sur.

The financial assistance addressed the beneficiaries’ urgent medical, financial, and reintegration needs, providing immediate relief and critical support as they recover from employment disruption and displacement caused by the Middle East crisis.

The series of interventions highlights the continuing commitment of the Marcos administration to protect the welfare of OFWs through accessible, compassionate, and coordinated government services that promote recovery, resilience, and sustainable reintegration into their communities. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Monday, 11 May 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

11 May 2026, Monday, 5:00 p.m.

1. 250 lawmakers present as House prepares to vote on impeachment case vs VP Sara

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Standard, Manila Times, Mindanao Times, NewsWatchPlus, News5PH, Philstar, Rappler, The Freeman]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/05/11/news/250-lawmakers-present-as-house-prepares-to-vote-on-impeachment-case-vs-vp-sara/2340404

2. Alan Cayetano is now Senate president; Tito Sotto ousted in surprise coup

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2226585/alan-cayetano-is-now-senate-president

3. Bato dela Rosa returns to Senate after months-long absence

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/5/11/bato-dela-rosa-returns-to-senate-after-months-long-absence-1522

4. CIDG issues subpoena vs Bato Dela Rosa in drug war probe

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2226429/cidg-issues-subpoena-vs-bato-dela-rosa

5. Philippines, Paraguay ink diplomatic training, visa-waiver agreements; Marcos' Paraguay visit eyed

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

https://mb.com.ph/2026/05/11/philippines-paraguay-ink-diplomatic-training-visa-waiver-agreements-marcos-paraguay-visit-eyed

6. DND: No 'destabilization' activities amid VP Sara impeachment proceedings; Groups rally outside House urging lawmakers to impeach VP Duterte

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Standard, Mindanao Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/5/11/no-destabilization-activities-amid-vp-sara-impeachment-proceedings-dnd-1246

7. Filipino seafarers on hantavirus-hit ship to face 42-day quarantine in Netherlands before repatriation; PH airports, seaports tighten border screening

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessMirror, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Times, News5PH, NewsWatchPlus, Rappler, Sunstar]

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/health-science/2026/5/10/filipino-seafarers-on-hantavirus-hit-ship-face-quarantine-before-repatriation-2304

8. PGMN host CJ Hirro a no-show at NBI; lawyer says she’s out of town

[ABS-CBN News, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Mindanao Times]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2226494/pgmn-host-cj-hirro-a-no-show-at-nbi-lawyer-says-shes-out-of-town

9. DILG confirms Interpol red notices vs Atong Ang, Bantag, Dumlao

[GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Times]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/05/11/news/dilg-confirms-interpol-red-notices-vs-atong-ang-bantag-dumlao/2340334

10. PhilSA warns vs Chinese rocket debris near Palawan

[Manila Bulletin, Manila Times, Manila Standard, Philstar]

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/05/11/news/philsa-warns-vs-chinese-rocket-debris-near-palawan/2340335

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Monday, 11 May 2026

BFAR trains fisherfolk in Dinagat Islands on fiberglass boatmaking

By Renelle L. Escuadro

BUTUAN CITY (PIA)  The fisherfolk in the Province of Dinagat Islands enhanced their livelihood opportunities after completing training on fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) boat making, empowering coastal communities by strengthening fishers’ skills, and improving socio-economic conditions.

Under the ‘Bangka Ko, Gawa Ko’ initiative, the activity was spearheaded by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Caraga of the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program Phase II.

The program on SAAD Phase 2 fulfills the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to improve fisherfolk’s living conditions, provide sustainable livelihood opportunities, and support for poor fishing sectors, complementing the department’s banner programs and assisting beneficiaries in establishing community-based fishery enterprises.

Under the SAAD Phase II, all materials, tools, and equipment were given for free, and beneficiaries are also set to receive fishing gear and accessories as part of a comprehensive livelihood support package.

Held in Barangay Bagumbayan, the training ran in two batches, with the New Mabuhay Fisherfolk Association (NMFA) completing the first 15-day session from March 17 to April 1. It was followed by the Sitio Babangnan Fisherfolk Organization (SBFO) with members who underwent the training from April 8 to April 30, both held in the municipality of Dinagat.

Participants gained practical knowledge and skills in FRP boat fabrication, repair, and maintenance, as technical experts from BFAR Caraga’s regional and provincial fisheries offices guided the fisherfolk in building their own fishing boats, strengthening their technical capacity, and supporting sustainable livelihoods.

Thirty units of 23-foot FRP boats were fabricated at the training, with 15 units given to each association, and each boat will be co-owned by two active members, promoting shared responsibility and resource management within the groups.

The provincial government of Dinagat Islands, through the Provincial Fisheries Office (PFO), in partnership with the local government units of Dinagat and Tubajon, led the implementation of the program in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

The DOLE’s program on Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) provided participants with short-term employment assistance to compensate for income lost while attending the training instead of engaging in fishing activities.

Meanwhile, this May, the country observes the National Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month, honoring the vital role of the country’s food producers with the theme, ‘Pagbibigay-pugay para sa Magsasaka’t Mangingisda sa gitna ng hamon at krisis.’

BFAR Caraga Director Omnia B. Olama underscored the indispensable contribution of fisherfolk to both the fisheries industry and national development, emphasizing that progress in the sector hinges on collective effort. “To our partners in government and local communities, your role is vital. Progress in the fisheries sector is only possible through strong collaboration, shared responsibility, and unified action.”

“As we celebrate the Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month, may we go beyond recognition and turn our gratitude into action—by supporting local products, strengthening policies that protect our producers, and creating more opportunities so that no farmer or fisherfolk is left behind,” Dir. Olama said. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with reports from DA-BFAR SAAD and PFO-Dinagat Islands)

Monday, 11 May 2026

PNP highlights accomplishments in Surigao Norte

By Susil D. Ragas

SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA)  The Surigao del Norte Provincial Police Office under the leadership of Police Colonel Warren E. Dablo, provincial director, diligently carried out their mandated duties and achieved significant and sustained success in their law enforcement operations for April 2026, resulting in the arrest of a total of 52 law offenders.

The monthly accomplishment report of the Provincial Operations Unit (POU), indicates that the Surigao del Norte Provincial Police made significant strides across various law enforcement campaigns in April 2026.

Under the anti-illegal drug campaign, the police conducted 16 operations, resulting in the apprehension of 17 individuals and the confiscation of 83.94 grams of illegal drugs and 45 grams of marijuana, with an estimated market value of P576,160.72.

Efforts to neutralize wanted persons yielded positive results, with a total of 24 fugitives apprehended, including fourteen Most Wanted Persons at the regional and provincial levels. Specifically, two wanted persons at the regional level, and two at the provincial level were successfully arrested.

On the campaign against loose firearms, one operation resulted in the confiscation of one small firearm.

Meanwhile, the persistent anti-illegal fishing operations led to the arrest of 8 violators in 4 operations and the confiscation of 64 kilograms of assorted fish valued at P17,000.

In the anti-illegal gambling campaign, two operations led to the arrest of one individual and the confiscation of illegal gambling paraphernalia valued at P4,300.

Director Col. Dablo said, “As part of the comprehensive campaign on special laws, one individual was arrested for violating Republic Act 10643, also known as the Graphic Health Warnings Law. In two related operations, one suspect was apprehended for similar violations, with police seizing cigarettes valued at an estimated P444,500.”

He shared that local police conducted 179 operations, sanctioned 1,135 violators and collected a total of P262,050 in fines.

“The accomplishments of this month reflected the unwavering dedication and relentless hard work of the Surigao del Norte Police Force, in response to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Our commitment will remain steadfast as we continue to enforce the law in pursuit of a peaceful and secure province,” Dablo added. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from SDN-PPO)