Tuesday, 14 April 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

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

1.    SC asked to compel ES Recto to disclose PBBM's 'true state of physical, mental health'

[ABS-CBN News, DZRH, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Manila Standard, Sunstar]

https://mb.com.ph/2026/04/14/sc-asked-to-compel-es-recto-to-disclose-pbbms-true-state-of-physical-mental-health

2. 'Hanggang 2025 lang dapat?': Madriaga bares Duterte camp's alleged destab plot to unseat Marcos

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

https://mb.com.ph/2026/04/14/hanggang-2025-lang-dapat-madriaga-bares-duterte-camps-alleged-destab-plot-to-unseat-marcos

3. Duterte camp calls Madriaga's 'assassination plot' vs Marcos 'pure fiction'

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/14/duterte-camp-calls-madriaga-s-assassination-plot-vs-marcos-pure-fiction-0905

4. House begins impeachment hearing; VP Sara skips proceedings anew

-Madriaga cries as he recalls push for Sara Duterte’s presidential run

-Luistro: The House initiates, the Senate decides

-Sara Duterte’s SALN submission to House panel deferred — Clavano

-Duterte supporters oppose impeachment case vs Sara

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

https://www.dzrh.com.ph/post/house-begins-impeachment-hearing-vp-sara-skips-proceedings-anew

5. Sara Duterte's confidential funds gone in 24 hours — not 11 days, says alleged bagman

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

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/04/14/2520936/sara-dutertes-confidential-funds-gone-24-hours-not-11-days-says-alleged-bagman

6. Ramil Madriaga signs bank secrecy waiver

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/983839/sara-duterte-impeachment-ramil-madriaga-bank-secrecy-waiver/story/

7. Ramil Madriaga links Duterte's husband to drug controversy

[ABS-CBN News, Daily Tribune, News5PH, Panay News, Sunstar]

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/bagman-links-dutertes-husband-to-2018-magnetic-lifter-drug-controversy

8. Marcos moves income tax return filing deadline to May 15

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/personalfinance/983834/marcos-deadline-of-filing-of-income-tax-returns-extended-to-may-15-2026/story/

9. Go justifies limited tax suspension, says move was ‘balanced’

[ABS-CBN News, BusinessWorld, Daily Tribune, GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, NewsWatchPlus, Panay News, Philstar, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://business.inquirer.net/585158/go-justifies-limited-tax-suspension-says-move-was-balanced

10. ICI turns over luxury vehicles linked to graft case to Ombudsman

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

https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/14/ici-turns-over-luxury-vehicles-linked-to-graft-case-to-ombudsman-1247

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Tuesday, 14 April 2026

DOLE ensures job security for workers of Surigao Sur enterprise 

By Nida Grace P. Barcena 

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — Amid ongoing economic pressures faced by micro and small enterprises nationwide, workers of a local restobar in Barobo, Surigao del Sur are expected to gain stronger job security after their employer received financial assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through its enterprise support program designed to sustain employment and strengthen business resilience.

Employees of Kvenz Restobar in Barobo recently benefited from more stable employment following the release of ₱351,700 in financial assistance from the DOLE–Surigao del Sur under the DOLE’s Adjustment Measures Program (AMP). 

The grant was awarded during the orientation on Technical and Advisory Visit (TAV) held at the Tandag City gymnasium.

The financial support will fund the upgrade of kitchen equipment to improve food-preparation efficiency, increase productivity, and sustain employment for its workforce. 

This initiative is part of the national government’s strategy to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) remain operational despite rising operational costs and market uncertainties.

For the owners, Ignacio and Delma Serrano, the assistance fulfilled a long-standing plan to modernize their operations and expand service capacity. The upgraded equipment is expected to create a safer and more efficient work environment, allowing employees to maintain consistent service delivery even during periods of economic strain.

The owner expressed gratitude for the assistance, noting that the grant helped turn their long-planned improvements into reality. 

“We sincerely thank the DOLE Adjustment Measures Program for their assistance. This grant helped turn our plans into reality, particularly in upgrading our kitchen paraphernalia. We applied last year, and now we have finally received the support. Thank you very much, DOLE, for this opportunity,” the owner said.

With upgraded facilities, workers are expected to benefit from improved workplace safety and more efficient operations, enabling the enterprise to maintain stable services and protect employment despite economic uncertainties.

For Kvenz Restobar, the support represents more than upgraded equipment – it means continued livelihood, improved working conditions, and renewed confidence in the stability of their jobs.

According to DOLE–Surigao del Sur Head Genebelle B. Bal, the financial assistance aims to help small enterprises remain resilient while protecting existing jobs. She emphasized that strengthening business operations is a practical response to economic disruptions, helping prevent worker displacement and supporting sustainable employment.

The DOLE’s Adjustment Measures Program is one of the department’s flagship initiatives designed to help enterprises and workers cope with economic challenges. 

With the targeted financial assistance, the program promotes job preservation, improves productivity, strengthens business competitiveness, and contributes to the creation of decent and sustainable employment opportunities nationwide.

As the government continues to extend assistance to MSMEs across the country, the initiative demonstrates how targeted investments help small businesses cope with economic challenges, protect jobs, stabilize local enterprises, and promote inclusive economic recovery for Filipino workers. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)

Tuesday, 14 April 2026

Out of hiding: Caraga’s first amnesty grantee finds new life in peace

By Nora L. Molde

For years, the lives of Maximo Vivas Sr. and Jennifer Gabo were defined by hardship, uncertainty, and conflict deep within the armed struggle. 

Today, their story stands as a compelling narrative of transformation, one that reflects not only personal redemption but also the government’s relentless push for lasting peace under the national amnesty program.

On January 1, 2023, Vivas and Gabo made a decisive turn away from violence, voluntarily surrendering to the 29th Infantry Battalion in Agusan del Norte. The couple cited exhaustion from continuous military operations, dwindling logistical support, and a deep longing to reunite with their families as the driving forces behind their surrender.

In a significant act of cooperation, Vivas disclosed the location of their hidden arms cache, leading to the recovery of eight high-powered firearms. This gesture not only demonstrated sincerity but also marked the beginning of his reintegration into mainstream society.

Recognizing their decision to abandon armed struggle, the provincial government of Agusan del Norte extended immediate assistance. On January 25, 2023, the couple, accompanied by officials of the 29th Infantry Battalion, met with Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante and received P100,000 in financial aid. 

“The provincial government stands firm in its commitment to support former rebels who choose the path of peace. Their courage to return to the folds of the law is a powerful step toward rebuilding not only their lives but also stronger and more peaceful communities,” Gov. Amante said. “This initial support enabled them to begin rebuilding their lives while awaiting additional benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or ECLIP, a flagship initiative aligned with the government’s whole-of-nation approach to end local communist armed conflict.”

Complementing these efforts, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) has played a central role in facilitating the country’s national amnesty program. Through its coordination with local government units, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other partner agencies, OPAPRU ensures the efficient processing of amnesty applications, issuance of Safe Conduct Passes, and delivery of reintegration support services. The agency also leads information campaigns and confidence-building measures aimed at encouraging former rebels to return to the folds of the law, reinforcing the government’s commitment to reconciliation, restorative justice, and inclusive peace.

Their journey toward stability further progressed when, on June 19, 2024, they were awarded a newly constructed housing unit in Barangay Victory, Tubay, Agusan del Norte. The house symbolized more than a shelter – it represented dignity, security, and a renewed sense of belonging within the community.

Vivas’ transformation reached a critical milestone when he was granted a Safe Conduct Pass and eventually amnesty under the national government’s program, institutionalized through the directives of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. This initiative aims to foster reconciliation by providing former rebels the opportunity to reintegrate into society without fear of prosecution, provided they renounce violence and commit to peaceful living.

For Gabo, the return to civilian life carried a deeply personal meaning. After four years of separation, she was finally reunited with her son. With assistance from the military, she celebrated her child’s birthday in Surigao del Norte, an emotional milestone that underscored the human dimension of reintegration efforts.

Gabo is also a holder of a Safe Conduct Pass, which protects her under the law and allows her to fully access government services as she continues her transition back into civilian life alongside her partner.

As part of their reintegration, Vivas and Gabo now sustain their daily needs through small-scale livelihood efforts. The couple operates a sari-sari store and raises livestock, providing them with a steady source of income and helping them build a more stable and self-reliant life.

Expressing deep gratitude, Vivas emphasized the program’s life-changing impact, particularly the resolution of his past cases filed during his stint with the NPA.

“Thank you to the government. The amnesty program is real and true. My previous cases have now been cleared, and it has given me a new chance to live peacefully with my family,” he said.

Beyond rebuilding his own life, Vivas now actively supports the government’s peace efforts by encouraging former comrades to return to the folds of the law and avail of the amnesty program.

He has become a living testament to the sincerity of the government’s initiatives, using his experience to persuade others that a peaceful and stable life is attainable outside armed struggle.

“The government is sincere in helping us start over,” he added. “My former comrades have seen how my life has changed. They now realize that the promises of the NPA are not true.”

His testimony has begun to influence others still in the armed movement. According to Vivas, some of his former colleagues have already expressed their intention to surrender, inspired by his experience and the tangible support he has received from the government.

The story of Vivas and Gabo illustrates the broader national impact of the amnesty program, demonstrating how localized interventions, when aligned with national directives, can yield meaningful and lasting change. 

Their journey from armed conflict to peaceful reintegration underscores the government’s commitment to inclusive development, reconciliation, and the restoration of lives once disrupted by insurgency.

As the administration continues to advance its peace-building initiatives, stories like theirs serve as powerful narratives of hope, proving that even in the most difficult circumstances, a path toward peace and renewal is always possible. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

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)