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Mayor Tacoy denies any involvement on the missing sabungeros issue

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REBUKE. Mayor Bernardino ‘Bernie’ Tacoy of Matag-ob, Leyte issued a statement strongly denying any involvement on the missing sabongeros. Tacoy was implicated to the controversy by whistle blower alias ‘Totoy’ in an interview. (FILE PHOTO)

As implicated by alias ‘Totoy’

REBUKE. Mayor Bernardino ‘Bernie’ Tacoy of Matag-ob, Leyte issued a statement strongly denying any involvement on the missing sabongeros. Tacoy was implicated to the controversy by whistle blower alias ‘Totoy’ in an interview. (FILE PHOTO)

TACLOBAN CITY – Matag-ob, Leyte Mayor Bernardino ‘Bernie’ Tacoy has denied any involvement in the controversial case of missing sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts), following claims made by Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, also known by the alias “Totoy,” who linked him to retired Police General Jonnel Estomo.

In an official statement released on Wednesday, July 16, Tacoy “vehemently denied” any direct association or business dealings with General Estomo, emphasizing that their connection has only been through mutual acquaintances and that no transactions—particularly those related to cockfighting or game fowl breeding—have ever taken place between them.

“I also have no personal knowledge regarding General Estomo’s involvement in the game fowl business,” Tacoy stated. “Nor is there proof of an interest in this industry that would qualify him for Group Alpha. It is essential to note that in this organization, reputation is valued more than financial contributions.”

Tacoy, known as one of Eastern Visayas’ most prominent cockfighting aficionados, is a longtime game fowl breeder and has maintained several winning bloodlines of fighting cocks over the years.

Even before his election as mayor of Matag-ob, Tacoy, who was reelected for his second term in the just concluded elections, had already gained national recognition among sabong circles for his active participation in derbies and high-stakes tournaments across the country.

He acknowledged that he had seen Patidongan before at the game fowl farm of Charlie “Atong” Ang in Batangas but only identified him then as a caretaker.

“I recognized him solely as a caretaker long before I assumed the position of mayor,” Tacoy said.

The mayor described the accusations as “concerning,” adding that he has always been transparent with his business engagements related to game fowl and has invested in the Alpha Group “in good faith.”

Tacoy appealed to Patidongan not to drag his name into controversies he has no connection to.

“I respectfully request that Mr. Patidongan refrain from associating me with issues that do not concern me,” he said. “I am committed to my role as a public servant, focusing on my responsibilities to provide for my family and serve the Matag-obanons who trust in my leadership.”

Authorities are continuing to investigate the disappearances of several sabungeros linked to online and off-site cockfighting operations.

Patidongan, who recently surfaced as a witness, has dropped several names, alleging connections between high-profile personalities and the missing individuals.

Tacoy’s name is the latest to surface in the case that has rocked the sabong community and raised questions about criminal activity behind the scenes of the once-legalized and highly lucrative sport.

JOEY A. GABIETA, ROEL T. AMAZONA

PRO 8 unveils high-tech command center, proves 5-minute emergency response capability

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GOING HIGH TECH. Police Regional Director B/Gen. Jay Cumigad shows off to the members of the media their state-of-the art command center at the regional police headquarters which them their emergency and incident responses quick and on real time. (LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
GOING HIGH TECH. Police Regional Director B/Gen. Jay Cumigad shows off to the members of the media their state-of-the art command center at the regional police headquarters which them their emergency and incident responses quick and on real time. (LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

PALO, Leyte– The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO 8) has unveiled its state-of-the-art Command Center as part of its efforts to modernize law enforcement and ensure faster emergency response across Eastern Visayas.

In a media demonstration held at Camp Ruperto Kangleon, this town, PRO 8 highlighted the capabilities of its Central Operations Area, which features a massive LED wall displaying real-time feeds from body-worn cameras, CCTV systems, drones, and GPS-enabled patrol vehicles. The initiative is in line with the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) push for digital transformation under the leadership of PNP Chief PGen. Nicolas Torre III.

To test the system’s efficiency, PRO 8 conducted a simulation exercise (SIMEX) involving a mock vehicular incident.

Led by PMaj. Janel Regato, acting chief of the Regional Tactical Operations Center (RTOC), the drill showed that police responders were dispatched and arrived on-site within 1 minute and 14 seconds—well within the 5-minute response time directive from PNP leadership.

“This is the kind of policing we owe to the people of Eastern Visayas,” said PRO 8 Regional Director PB/Gen. Jay Cumigad. “We will continue to improve our services by harnessing technology and intensifying personnel training to meet the 5-minute response goal.”

Cumigad noted that while some units still lack body-worn cameras, the region maintains full monitoring coverage through enhanced radio communication systems. He also revealed plans to expand CCTV coverage along major highways and acquire additional portable operations center (POC) radios, especially in Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs).

The Command Center’s launch underscores the regional police force’s growing focus on real-time coordination and data-driven decision-making to ensure public safety. Citizens can now call 911 for faster assistance, backed by the improved coordination systems.
The PRO 8’s proactive approach reflects a broader national agenda to transform the PNP into a modern, responsive, and technology-driven organization.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

Tingog welcomes surge in public trust in House, cites Speaker Romualdez’s steady leadership

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Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez
Speaker Ferdinand
Martin Romualdez

TACLOBAN CITY – Tingog party-list has welcomed the rise in public trust in the House of Representatives, attributing the positive shift to the consistent and responsive leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.

The latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) national survey reflects growing confidence in the lower chamber of Congress, capping the 19th Congress on a strong note despite a politically charged atmosphere.

“These results affirm the people’s trust in a House that has remained focused on passing legislation that uplifts lives and safeguards the nation’s future,” said TINGOG Representative Jude Acidre. “We are proud to serve under Speaker Martin Romualdez, whose steady leadership has guided the chamber through challenging times while pushing for meaningful reforms.”

Under Speaker Romualdez’s watch, the House has passed key measures spanning labor, education, healthcare, national security, and economic development. Acidre stressed that the chamber’s legislative work has remained rooted in the needs of ordinary Filipinos.
“Despite political headwinds, the House stayed true to its constitutional mandate. We did the work—and the public responded,” he added. “This growing trust is not just a commendation—it’s a call to continue serving with discipline, consistency, and greater commitment.”

Tingog party-list Representative Andrew Romualdez and Rep. Acidre also underscored the importance of unity and delivery of results, especially as the 20th Congress prepares to open.

“This is a clear signal that the people value unity, competence, and real progress,” said Rep. Romualdez. “Under the leadership of Speaker Romualdez, the House has stayed on course toward these goals, and Tingog remains fully committed to continue that work.”
“As we open a new chapter in legislation, TINGOG will continue to champion a House that listens, acts, and delivers,” Acidre affirmed.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

Former rebel supporter in Eastern Samar surrenders, eyes reintegration under E-CLIP

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TACLOBAN CITY – A former supporter of the communist underground movement in Eastern Visayas has voluntarily surrendered to authorities in General MacArthur, Eastern Samar, in what police say is another sign of progress in ongoing peace and reintegration efforts across the region.

The surrenderee, identified only as alias “Lando”, 45, was reportedly affiliated with the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) from 2017 to 2022, serving as a member of an Underground Mass Organization (UGMO)—a civilian support group linked to the New People’s Army (NPA).

According to the Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8), “Lando” turned himself in on July 8, 2025, through the coordinated efforts of the 2nd Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd ESPMFC), the Provincial Intelligence Unit, the Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office, and the Provincial Intelligence Team–Eastern Samar.

“The decision of alias ‘Lando’ to leave the rebel group shows that our strengthened community engagement and focused police operations are making a real impact,” said Police Brigadier General Jay Cumigad, regional director of PRO-8.

“We welcome his decision to return to a peaceful and lawful life with the government’s support. To those still in the armed struggle, we say this: Peace is always an option. There is always a way out,” he added.

Authorities said “Lando” is currently undergoing documentation and assessment for possible enrollment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)—a government initiative that provides financial, livelihood, and reintegration assistance to former rebels and their supporters.

As initial support, the former rebel supporter received a food pack from the operating unit.
PRO-8 reiterated its call for remaining members and sympathizers of communist terrorist groups (CTGs) in Eastern Visayas to abandon the armed struggle and avail of the government’s reintegration programs, which aim to provide former insurgents a second chance at a peaceful, productive life.

(RONALD O. REYES)

DPWH completes preventive maintenance project along PCO Road in Tunga

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TACLOBAN CITY– The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte Second District Engineering Office (L2DEO) has completed a preventive maintenance project on its primary road along a stretch of the Palo-Carigara-Ormoc road, particularly in Tunga town.
The project has a total allocation of P44.43 million which includes the removal of the existing asphalt overlay and its replacement with new asphalt layer to restore and the strengthen roadway spanning a total length of 0.94 kilometers. It also involves the intermittent reblocking of damaged sections of the Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP),particularly along the road and bridge approaches in Naliwatan and Tunga.
In addition, thermoplastic pavement markings are installed to enhance traffic safety, especially during night time travel.

District Engineer Leo Edward L. Oppura said that the project enhancement along Palo-Carigara-Ormoc Road serves as a vital access route linking several municipalities and supporting daily transport of people, products, and services, as it is considered one of the busiest roads in the region.

He added that preventing the road structure from developing hazardous conditions such as potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces will lessen accidents and injuries.

The completed road works will provide long-term benefits to road users by improving driving comfort and reducing travel time and vehicle maintenance costs, and they can expect safe and smooth travel along the road network in Tunga.

Funded under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA), through the Asset Preservation Program under Preventive Maintenance of Primary Roads, the project was commenced on March 21, 2025, with 100% reported work accomplishment.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

Former rebel supporter in Eastern Samar surrenders, eyes reintegration under E-CLIP

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TACLOBAN CITY – A former supporter of the communist underground movement in Eastern Visayas has voluntarily surrendered to authorities in General MacArthur, Eastern Samar, in what police say is another sign of progress in ongoing peace and reintegration efforts across the region.

The surrenderee, identified only as alias “Lando”, 45, was reportedly affiliated with the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC) from 2017 to 2022, serving as a member of an Underground Mass Organization (UGMO)—a civilian support group linked to the New People’s Army (NPA).

According to the Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8), “Lando” turned himself in on July 8, 2025, through the coordinated efforts of the 2nd Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd ESPMFC), the Provincial Intelligence Unit, the Eastern Samar Police Provincial Office, and the Provincial Intelligence Team–Eastern Samar.

“The decision of alias ‘Lando’ to leave the rebel group shows that our strengthened community engagement and focused police operations are making a real impact,” said Police Brigadier General Jay Cumigad, regional director of PRO-8.

“We welcome his decision to return to a peaceful and lawful life with the government’s support. To those still in the armed struggle, we say this: Peace is always an option. There is always a way out,” he added.

Authorities said “Lando” is currently undergoing documentation and assessment for possible enrollment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)—a government initiative that provides financial, livelihood, and reintegration assistance to former rebels and their supporters.

As initial support, the former rebel supporter received a food pack from the operating unit.
PRO-8 reiterated its call for remaining members and sympathizers of communist terrorist groups (CTGs) in Eastern Visayas to abandon the armed struggle and avail of the government’s reintegration programs, which aim to provide former insurgents a second chance at a peaceful, productive life.

(RONALD O. REYES)

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