(PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST as of Thursday, 30 April 2026) Easterlies affecting Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Easterlies ang makaapekto sa rehiyon sa Caraga.



TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Thursday, 30 April 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

30 April 2026, Thursday, 5:00 p.m.

1. ZALDY CO DEBACLE:

-Palace: Marcos announcement correct, Zaldy Co previously detained in Czechia

-President Marcos meets Czech, French envoys over Zaldy Co

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

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/4/30/palace-marcos-announcement-correct-zaldy-co-previously-detained-in-czechia-1338

2. DUTERTE IMPEACHMENT COMPLAINT:

-Sara Duterte's lawyer on NBI findings: Evidence is curated, even spliced

-Senators hold caucus to discuss possible Sara Duterte impeachment trial

-SC 'forthwith' clarification vindicated Senate's 2025 impeachment court, ex-spox says

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/985888/sara-duterte-s-lawyer-on-nbi-findings-evidence-is-curated-even-spliced/story/

3. Marcos inaugurates P1.21 billion irrigation project in Leyte

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2220747/marcos-inaugurates-p1-21-billion-irrigation-project-in-leyte

4. BSP projects April inflation at 5.6-6.4%

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

https://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/read/bsp-projects-april-inflation-at-5-6-6-4

5. LABOR DAY:

-PNP on full alert for Labor Day 2026 activities; to deploy over 106,000 law enforcers

-MMDA suspends number coding on May 1, 2026 for Labor Day

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/985912/pnp-full-alert-labor-day-activities/story/

6. Peso hits new intraday low 61.75:$1 on oil, inflation fears

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

https://malaya.com.ph/business/business-news/peso-hits-new-intraday-low-61-751-on-oil-inflation-fears/

7. DBM launches microsite on livelihood, food, transport aid

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

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/04/30/news/govt-unveils-microsite-for-middle-east-crisis-response/2332393

8. ICC trial chamber names Judge Joanna Korner as presiding judge in Duterte case

[GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Times, News5PH, Philstar]

https://www.onenews.ph/articles/presiding-judge-in-rodrigo-duterte-s-icc-trial-named

9. EDSA-Ortigas flyover fire: DPWH holds bus firm liable for damages

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Manila Times, News5PH]

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/985889/edsa-ortigas-flyover-fire-dpwh-holds-bus-firm-liable-for-damages/story/

10. GHOST DRIVERS ISSUE:

-DOTr, LTFRB urged to clean up TNC drivers list so aid can reach right beneficiaries

-DSWD says purging 'junk list' of ayuda beneficiaries in transport sector

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

https://mb.com.ph/2026/04/30/dotr-ltfrb-urged-to-clean-up-tnc-drivers-list-so-aid-can-reach-right-beneficiaries

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit

Thursday, 30 April 2026

HSAC cautions buyers vs unfair housing contracts

By Mariesh F. Celedeña

BUTUAN CITY (PIA)  The Human Settlements Adjudication Commission (HSAC) Regional Adjudication Branch (RAB) Caraga, while recognizing the contribution and value of many land developers to nation building, has nonetheless cautioned the public against dishonest real estate developers. 

During an information drive, Attorney Carlo Franco Thomas C. Limjoco, OIC-chief regional adjudicator of HSAC-RAB Caraga, emphasized the importance of understanding buyers’ rights and the obligations of developers under the law and urged the general public and more particularly the prospective homebuyers to be vigilant when entering into housing contracts. 

The public is advised to exercise due diligence before purchasing any subdivision or memorial lots, condominium units, or similar real estate developments. Buyers need to verify whether the developer has registered the project and has in fact been issued a License to Sell with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), the government agency responsible for regulating real estate developments. 

According to Limjoco, Presidential Decree No. 957, or the Subdivision and Condominium Buyers’ Protective Decree, was enacted to protect buyers from fraudulent, deceptive, or unscrupulous developers. In fact, the decree ensures that the developer cannot include unfair conditions that would take away the legal protection buyers enjoy under the law.

“In particular, those provisions in a contract where a buyer voluntarily waives their right to file a complaint against the developer or allows the developer at its own behest to delay the delivery or turnover of the property, have no legal validity. Under the law and the regulations of the DHSUD, once a License to Sell is issued, the completion date of the project is clearly stipulated and becomes a demandable obligation. This deadline, despite any stipulations in the contract, cannot simply be unilaterally extended by the developer unless such an extension is approved by DHSUD and buyers have been notified,” he said. 

There are obligations by the developers mandated under Presidential Decree No. 957 that cannot be subject to any waiver by any buyer.   In those instances, should those be expressly waived in any sale contract of subdivision or memorial lots, condominium units, and similar developments, the waiver may be considered invalid.

Limjoco explained that even if a buyer signs a contract containing such waivers, the law continues to protect them, and the law may still allow them to exercise those rights which were unknowingly waived by them.

The commission also identified some of the common grounds for the filing of many complaints before HSAC. These include developers having delayed the completion of the subdivision project or the turn-over of the housing units, developers not having constructed the promised facilities such as clubhouses, roads, and drainage systems or have deviated from the original subdivision plan approved by the concerned local government unit and DHSUD, the developers mismanaging the intended use of the subdivision’s open spaces, or the developers withholding the delivery of the titles of purchased lots or units. In these instances, buyers may file a case to compel the developers to perform and deliver their obligations or to cancel the contract and fully recover payments made, including claims for interests and damages.

The commission also reminded developers of their responsibility to ensure the quality and safety of housing units. Buyers who encounter construction defects, whether structural in nature or poor workmanship, may file complaints before HSAC for specific performance.

All told, considering the issues hounding many real estate developments across the country, Limjoco further stressed that HSAC must remain relentless in its information drive advocating and promoting awareness of both buyers’ rights and developers’ responsibilities if it is to become an avenue to protect the hapless and the aggrieved.” (MFC, PIA Caraga) 

Thursday, 30 April 2026

Former rebels transform into peace advocates under the government’s deradicalization program

By Nida Grace P. Barcena

TAGO, Surigao del Sur (PIA)  The provincial government of Surigao del Sur continues to strengthen peace and reintegration efforts as another batch of former rebels (FRs) underwent the deradicalization process early last month under the government’s Enhanced–Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). 

The deradicalization training for FRs started on March 4 at the halfway house in Barangay Dayo-an, Tago, marking the first batch of participants for this year. Upon completing the program, the FRs will be formally recognized as peace advocates, symbolizing their commitment to rebuilding their lives and contributing to community development. 

The program is part of the government’s whole-of-nation approach to addressing insurgency and supporting individuals formerly associated with communist terrorist groups (CTGs) as they transition back into peaceful and productive civilian lives.

Spearheaded by the provincial local government of Surigao del Sur, the initiative is implemented by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) in close partnership with stakeholders in the security and peace sectors. 

Steady expansion of the program

The deradicalization program in Surigao del Sur has steadily expanded over the past two years, reflecting the provincial government’s sustained commitment to peacebuilding and inclusive reintegration. Records from PSWDO showed that a total of 148 FRs completed the deradicalization training processes in 2024.

This gradual yet steady expansion underscores the provincial government’s dedication to long-term peacebuilding initiatives, in alignment with the national government’s agenda to address the root causes of insurgency, facilitate the reintegration of former rebels into society, and support them in rebuilding productive and meaningful lives.

Voices of transformation

Joel Maca, a participant in the deradicalization program in 2024, reflected on how the program transformed his life: “Dako kaayo og kausaban sa ako kinabuhi. Diha mi nalamdagan, og dapat dili mag-apil-apil sa kalihukan. Diha ra pod namo nahibal-an nga daghang programa ang atong gobyerno.”

(My life has changed significantly. I realized that I should not get involved in the movement, and I also learned that the government offers many programs to support the people)

His experience demonstrates how structured deradicalization efforts provide not only material support but also psychological guidance, moral reflection, and practical tools for reintegration into society. 

Another peace advocate, Zeresh Lou, who participated in the 2025 program, shared her personal journey:

“Ang kaniadto nga negatibo nako nga panglantaw sa gobyerno nawala kini, nahatagan kog katin-awan, nga diay sauna kadtong mga negatibo nga panglantaw nako dili diay to sya dapat nga mahimo nakong rason para musampa sa kalihukan…” (My previously negative perception of the government has disappeared. I realized that my past negative views should not have been a reason for me to join the movement) he said. 

“Tungod usab kay kulang pa sa kahibalo, bata pa og kulang sa giya sa mga ginikanan, usa sa mga factor nganag-contribute nga nadani ko pagsulod sa kalihukan” (Also, lack of knowledge, being young, and insufficient parental guidance were factors that contributed to my being drawn into the movement), the peace advocate added. 

Zeresh Lou also shared a message for those still in the movement: “Dili pa ulahi ang tanan para magbag-o. Hinoon, duna tay mga disappointment batok sa gobyerno kaniadto, pero nakita usab nato nga ang gobyerno naa siyay kausaban. Naay mga panigkamot unsaon nga matubag ang basic nga services para sa katawhan.”

(It is not too late for anyone to change. While we have had disappointments with the government in the past, we now see that the government is making efforts to provide basic services to the people)

These testimonies highlighted how the deradicalization program goes beyond material support, fostering moral reflection, psychological guidance, and readiness for productive reintegration, enabling former rebels to transition into responsible, contributing members of society.

National agenda alignment

The program aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s  peace and security agenda, emphasizing FRs’ deradicalization and reintegration in a whole-of-nation approach involving the local government, security sector, and social services, and a community-centered peacebuilding initiative that restores dignity and promotes socio-economic participation. 

Governor Johnny Pimentel’s administration, together with Vice Governor Manuel Alameda, now serving as acting governor, continues to demonstrate how sustained implementation of the E-CLIP program supports national efforts to reduce insurgency, strengthen social cohesion, and help former rebels rebuild meaningful lives as productive citizens.

Through initiatives like the deradicalization training process for FRs, Surigao del Sur sets a national example of how targeted programs transform lives, empower peace advocates, strengthen communities, and contribute to lasting peace in the country. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)

Thursday, 30 April 2026

Cash aid for Agusan Norte farmers, fisherfolk underway; more support eyed

By Nora L. Molde

Coordination meeting between the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga and the Congressional District Office of Rep. Dale B. Corvera held on April 27, 2026 to discuss the preparations for the rollout of cash assistance to farmers and fisherfolk under the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF) in Agusan del Norte. (Photo courtesy of the Congressional District Office of Rep. Dale B. Corvera/Hala Bira sa Kongreso)

BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Over 15,000 farmers and fisherfolk beneficiaries in Agusan del Norte have been identified to receive cash relief assistance, as preparations are in full swing for the rollout. Provincial leaders and the Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga are intensifying coordination ahead of its implementation this May. 

The initiative forms part of the national government’s Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF), in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to provide timely and targeted interventions to vulnerable sectors affected by global economic pressures, including rising fuel prices triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have driven up transportation and production costs.

A coordination meeting held on April 27 between the Congressional District Office of Rep. Dale B. Corvera and DA Caraga focused on ensuring the efficient and orderly distribution of assistance across the province.

Under the program, each qualified beneficiary will receive P2,325, forming part of a broader assistance package targeting more than 4 million farmers and fisherfolk nationwide. Beneficiaries must be registered under the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA), consistent with national government directives emphasizing data-driven, transparent, and well-targeted delivery of social protection programs. 

DA Caraga Regional Executive Director Engr. Ricardo M. Oñate Jr. underscored the agency’s commitment to ensuring smooth implementation.

“We are closely coordinating with our local government units and partners to ensure that the distribution of assistance will be efficient, transparent, and timely for our farmers and fisherfolk,” RED Oñate said.

Provincial leaders likewise emphasized the importance of aligning local initiatives with national directives in addressing the economic challenges affecting the agriculture sector. 

Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante underscored the need for a unified response. 

“As one leadership in Agusan del Norte, we are committed to complementing national government efforts by identifying additional support mechanisms to help our farmers and fisherfolk cope with current economic challenges,” Gov. Amante said. 

Rep. Corvera, for his part, stressed the importance of swift implementation in support of national government efforts.“This initiative is a crucial support for our agricultural sector. We will continue to work closely with the DA and our LGUs to ensure that the assistance reaches the rightful beneficiaries without delay,” 

Among the additional support measures being considered are fuel and rice assistance for fisherfolk, and fertilizer support for farmers, aligned with the national government’s thrust to strengthen food security and sustain agricultural productivity amid rising input costs.

Meanwhile, the province’s program on ‘Libreng Sakay’ (free ride) which started on April 13, continues to operate along key routes in Cabadbaran City and nearby municipalities, and is expected to run for two months as part of the local government’s effort to ease the burden on commuters. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)

TODAY’S TOP STORIES - Wednesday, 29 April 2026

TODAY’S TOP STORIES (from online monitoring)

29 April 2026, Wednesday, 5:00 p.m.

1. VP DUTERTE IMPEACHMENT HEARING:

-House panel finds probable cause to impeach VP Sara Duterte

-House panel thumbs down opening of tax returns of Sara Duterte, husband

-NBI authenticates Duterte's video threat vs Marcos, has leads on alleged ‘assassins’

-VP Duterte’s ‘designated survivor’ remark raised in House hearing

-Sara Duterte skips House hearing anew, attends ‘PHL VPs’ exhibit in Laguna mall

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

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/04/29/2524483/house-panel-finds-probable-cause-impeach-vp-sara-duterte

2. Marcos unveils PhilHealth's expanded maternity benefits starting April 30th

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

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2220040/marcos-announces-expanded-maternity-benefits-under-philhealth

3. OCTA: Self-rated poverty down from 37% to 35% before global oil price shock

[ABS-CBN News, GMA News, Inquirer, Malaya, Manila Standard, NewsWatchPlus]

https://manilastandard.net/news/314733316/self-rated-poverty-eases-but-food-insecurity-persists-octa.html

4. ICC names 3 judges for Duterte trial

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

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/320369/icc-names-3-judges-for-duterte-trial

5. DFA: Co's regular and diplomatic passports had been canceled since December 2025

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

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/04/29/news/dfa-cos-regular-and-diplomatic-passports-had-been-canceled-since-december-2025/2330828

6. Negros town declares CPP-NPA-NDFP ‘persona non grata’

[Daily Guardian, Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Watchmen Daily Journal]

https://www.dailyguardian.com.ph/blog/toboso-declares-cpp-npa-ndf-persona-non-grata

7. 10 hospitalized, 90 evacuated due to ammonia leak in Caloocan ice plant

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

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/985724/ammonia-leak-in-caloocan-ice-plant/story/

8. PAGASA: 8 areas under ‘danger’ heat index on April 29

[GMA News, Inquirer, Manila Standard, NewsWatchPlus, Philstar]

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/04/29/2524443/pagasa-8-areas-under-danger-heat-index-april-29

© Philippine Information Agency Monitoring Unit