Manila-The United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), recently partnered with the Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) to provide specialized training for 24 DOJ prosecutors to enhance their expertise in handling environmental crimes.

Facilitated by USAID-trained experts from the DOJ, the training was held in Pampanga and Bataan from October 15 to 18 as part of USAID’s Sustainable Interventions for Biodiversity, Oceans, and Landscapes (SIBOL) project.

The participants underwent mock court proceedings involving actual expert witnesses and environmental law enforcement officers, as well as crime scene investigation simulations within Bataan Natural Park. These exercises enhanced the state prosecutors’ knowledge about crime scene investigation, evidence handling, and case building.

The training ensures that strong evidence is collected before cases are filed, increasing the chances of successful convictions and strengthening the DOJ’s efforts to effectively safeguard protected areas under Philippine law.

“USAID, through the SIBOL project, is proud to support the DOJ in improving the capacity of state prosecutors to tackle environmental crimes through practical, hands-on training,” said Thomas Kaluzny, Deputy Director of USAID Philippines’ Environment Office.

“We do not just want prosecutors to be skilled in investigating and prosecuting cases, but we also want (them) to live by the principles of environmental leadership,” said DOJ Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Hazel Decena-Valdez.

Since 2022, USAID has trained 209 prosecutors in environmental law enforcement and supported the DOJ in developing additional courses on illegal wildlife trade, forestry, and fisheries.

USAID, through the SIBOL project, works with partners from the Philippine government, private sector, and civil society to strengthen science-based decision-making and address threats to biodiversity created by unsustainable practices, irresponsible tourism, and environmental crimes. (PR)

CAMP VICENTE LUKBAN, Catbalogan City-A member of a communist-terrorist group was killed following an encounter with government forces in Barangay Barayong, Motiong, Samar, on October 23, 2024.

Troops from the 87th Infantry Battalion engaged three suspected members of the Yakal Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee Browser, and Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee.
The clash lasted approximately five minutes before the enemy retreated southeast.

The following day, soldiers discovered the body of an insurgent identified as alias “Tisoy” or “Pogi,” along with an M14 rifle, ammunition, anti-personnel mines, and personal belongings.

In a separate incident, a soldier died during military operations amid Typhoon Kristine.
Pvt. Boyet P. Bogtong was reported to have accidentally slipped from a riverbank and was swept away by strong currents on October 22, 2024.

Search and rescue efforts commenced downstream, leading to the recovery of Pvt. Bogtong’s body two days later in the river at Barangay Anagasi, Paranas, Samar.
Brig. Gen. Perfecto P. Peñaredondo, acting commander of the 8th Infantry Division, extended condolences to Pvt. Bogtong’s family and reaffirmed the military’s dedication to safeguarding the region.

“Private Bogtong’s sacrifice stands as a solemn testament to the bravery and dedication of our troops, who remain committed to their duties despite severe weather and challenging conditions,” Peñaredondo said. (PR)

TACLOBAN CITY — The city government of Borongan, through its city tourism office, successfully conducted a trial run of the Hebacong – Suribao River – San Gabriel circuit tour.
Twenty participants, including local media representatives from Borongan, joined the tour, which began with a tree-planting activity in Hebacong, known for its picturesque “Sea of Clouds.”

A major highlight was the kayaking adventure along the Suribao River, which meandered through several barangays, offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant riverine communities and the stunning natural landscape.

The tour also included a visit to the local coco coir industry in Barangay San Gabriel, where participants enjoyed demonstrations on crafting eco-friendly products, such as fashion bags and floor mats.

Also, the group visited Kaputian Falls also in Brgy. San Gabriel which showcased Borongan’s natural wonders and reinforced the importance of eco-tourism efforts led by the San Gabriel Eco-tourism Association.

“The trial circuit aims to create a regular schedule and experience for all visitors. We plan to offer a fixed itinerary for activities, making it easier for everyone to plan their weekends when they visit,” explained Rupert Ambil II, officer-in-charge of the City Tourism Office.

“The goal is for the government to create opportunities for tourism stakeholders to recognize the potential of what we can offer. Eventually, we aim to minimize government intervention once we have enough operators and tourism associations ready to take over the FunBorongan circuit,” he added.

Ambil also mentioned that the city government plans to develop a program that will allow elementary and secondary school students to experience the circuit as part of their field trips.

“We want to ensure that Boronganons experience firsthand what we are offering to visitors. They will be our ambassadors,” he stated.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

ORMOC CITY-A fisherman who went missing after being struck by big waves in Catbalogan City was found lifeless along the seashore of Daraga Islet, Barangay Malajog, Tinambacan District, Calbayog City, Samar, around 2 pm on Friday, October 25, 2024.

The victim, identified as “Dods,” 48, a fisherman from Barangay Magsaysay, Almagro, Samar, was discovered by another fisherman, “Willie,” while fishing along the same shore.
Calbayog City Police Station responded to a report about the body, which had been relayed by a local resident via phone.

According to the investigation, on October 22, Dods had gone to Biliran to sell fish on a motorboat with a companion, “Bert.”

During their return journey at around 10:00 am, their boat was hit by large waves, causing it to capsize. Both men managed to stay afloat by clinging to their damaged boat until they drifted to a rocky shoreline in Barangay Rama, Catbalogan City, around 1:00 am on October 23. While attempting to crawl to safety, Dods was swept away by the waves, while Bert managed to reach shore.

Bert later sought help in Barangay Rama, but despite efforts, they were unable to locate Dods until his body was discovered days later in Calbayog City.

Calbayog police coordinated with the City Health Office for a post-mortem examination. Relatives of the victim confirmed his identity through a tattoo on his left chest.
(ROBERT DEJON)