Brgy. Burabud, Laoang Northern Samar – The Department of Public Works and Highways Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office (DPWH NSSDEO) has successfully completed the construction of flood control structures and drainage systems within major river basins and principal rivers on April 15, 2026, located in Brgy. Laniwan, Palapag, Northern Samar. This barangay has benefited from this project, which helps protect them during calamities. Specifically, this project was designed to shield residents from typhoons and river flooding, boost the local economy, and protect the environment.
This project is funded under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 with contract amount of P 110,356,560.50. The scope of work includes the construction of 515.00 linear meters of structural concrete revetment, supported by a steel sheet pile foundation with deadman anchor system.
Cleofe G. Ramos, a local resident said, Ako po’y nagpapasalamat sa ating gobyerno, lalo na sa ating mga kababayan, sa DPWH, maraming salamat po sa inyo, Sa inyong pag-gawa sa riprap, dahil dati po mahirap lang kami, pagdating ng baha, takot na takot kami dahil walang riprap, pero maraming salamat po sa inyo hindi na kami masiyadong takot, pag dumating yung malaking tubig, nandiyan na yung riprap. Malaking pasasalamat namin, sa Brgy. Laniwan, Palapag, Northern Samar. Maraming salamat po DPWH at gobyerno, thank you po.”
DPWH NSSDEO reaffirms its unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, resilient infrastructure projects that will provide sustainable, long-term benefits and improve the quality of life for the people of Northern Samar.
DISASTER RESPONSE UPGRADE. Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. and Biliran Governor Rogelio Espina share a light moment after the ceremonial turnover of a P17-million Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MoCCoV) during the National Science, Technology and Innovation Week celebration in Tacloban City on July 15. The mobile incident command center, equipped with satellite communications, surveillance systems, GPS tracking, and weather monitoring technology, is expected to significantly enhance Biliran’s disaster preparedness and emergency response operations by ensuring uninterrupted coordination during calamities and other emergencies.
(DOST- Eastern Visayas)
DISASTER RESPONSE UPGRADE. Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. and Biliran Governor Rogelio Espina share a light moment after the ceremonial turnover of a P17-million Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MoCCoV) during the National Science, Technology and Innovation Week celebration in Tacloban City on July 15. The mobile incident command center, equipped with satellite communications, surveillance systems, GPS tracking, and weather monitoring technology, is expected to significantly enhance Biliran’s disaster preparedness and emergency response operations by ensuring uninterrupted coordination during calamities and other emergencies. (DOST- Eastern Visayas)
TACLOBAN CITY — The provincial government of Biliran has strengthened its disaster preparedness and emergency response capability following the turnover of more than P17-million Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MoCCoV) from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
Governor Rogelio Espina said the state-of-the-art vehicle will enable authorities to maintain communications and coordinate rescue and relief operations even when conventional communication systems fail during major disasters.
“We were surprised because it is no small thing to receive a vehicle worth more than P17 million that can be used during calamities, strong typhoons, and even major events to ensure that communication, instructions, and services are synchronized. This will help prevent unforeseen problems that may arise during approaching typhoons or rescue operations,” Espina said in an interview.
The governor, who personally received the vehicle during a simple ceremony on Wednesday, July 15, assured DOST that the provincial government would maximize the vehicle’s use and regularly provide feedback to help improve future versions of the technology.
“We will make full use of this vehicle. I told the Secretary that we will report to them on how it has been utilized so we can recommend any additional equipment or system upgrades that may be needed. We will provide feedback so it can be modified or improved to help even more communities,” he added.
Aside from Biliran, the municipality of Catarman in Northern Samar also received a MoCCoV unit from the DOST.
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said communication systems are often among the first casualties during major disasters, making it difficult for responders to coordinate rescue and relief operations.
“During major disasters, one of the most affected systems is communication. When there is no communication, an area becomes isolated. Even if we want to respond, it becomes difficult to coordinate with local governments and barangays,” Solidum said.
He explained that the MoCCoV serves as a mobile incident command center that allows emergency responders to monitor disaster situations, coordinate response efforts, and maintain communication in areas where conventional infrastructure has been damaged.
The vehicle can also be deployed during major public events to support security operations and incident management.
According to Solidum, some MoCCoV units are equipped with advanced emergency response equipment, including drones, portable rescue boats, and medical triage systems, allowing responders to provide immediate assistance in disaster-stricken communities.
Developed by the DOST, the MoCCoV is equipped with satellite communication systems, surveillance cameras, GPS tracking, and an onboard weather monitoring station linked to the agency’s HANDA hazard monitoring platform.
Biliran is among the country’s disaster-prone provinces, regularly experiencing destructive typhoons, flooding, landslides, and storm surges, making reliable emergency communication systems crucial for saving lives and ensuring timely disaster response.
WORD OF GOD. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle delivers his homily during the 30th sacerdotal anniversary Mass of Msgr. Erwin Jose Balagapo at the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Tacloban City on Sunday, July 12. In his homily, Tagle urged the faithful to embrace the Word of God as an antidote to the “decay and corruption” affecting society, saying only a life rooted in faith can bear lasting and life-giving fruit. (Photo Courtesy)
WORD OF GOD. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle delivers his homily during the 30th sacerdotal anniversary Mass of Msgr. Erwin Jose Balagapo at the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Tacloban City on Sunday, July 12. In his homily, Tagle urged the faithful to embrace the Word of God as an antidote to the “decay and corruption” affecting society, saying only a life rooted in faith can bear lasting and life-giving fruit. (Photo Courtesy)
TACLOBAN CITY — Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle on Sunday, July 12, called on faithful to resist the “decay and corruption” afflicting society, saying only the Word of God can renew individuals and communities, as he celebrated the 30th sacerdotal anniversary of Msgr. Erwin Jose Balagapo at the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish here.
Tagle’s message comes as the country continues to grapple with corruption issues involving several government officials, including Vice President Sara Duterte, who is facing an impeachment trial over allegations that include the misuse of confidential funds and other alleged irregularities.
While the cardinal made no reference to any individual or political issue, his homily focused on corruption as a moral and spiritual condition that destroys society.
Balagapo, a native of Sulat, Eastern Samar, currently serves as undersecretary of a section of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, headed by Cardinal Tagle.
Tagle said he was grateful to join the celebration with Balagapo and the other jubilarians, noting that his visit was made with the knowledge of Archbishop John Du of Palo, who was unable to attend the Mass.
“We thank the Lord for their families, for their parishes, and for the Archdiocese of Palo. And I feel blessed to be with them,” Tagle said before a congregation that included lay faithful, clergy, and local officials, among them Tacloban City Councilor Dandee Grafil and Palo Mayor Remedios “Matin” Petilla.
Reflecting on the Gospel’s Parable of the Sower, Tagle urged the faithful to make room for God’s Word despite the distractions and anxieties of everyday life.
“The Word of God is active. It wants to produce or create something, something good. And the Lord promises, ‘My Word will not return to me without accomplishing its purpose,’” he said.
He added: “The Word of God is alive and comes to us so that it may bear fruit.”
Tagle then contrasted the fruits of God’s Word with what he described as the fruits of evil.
“Corruption is a sign of death, decay. Unfortunately, in the world, that is one fruit that we see—fruits of decay, progressive decay, until everything turns to ashes,” he said.
Drawing from St. Paul’s writings, the cardinal said hope remains alive despite the corruption seen in the world.
“St. Paul says that creation continues to groan. In the heart of creation, in the heart of every human being, there is something that is not corrupted—hope, waiting for the revelation of the freedom of the children of God. That is the fruit of the Word of God,” he said.
Tagle said those who live according to God’s Word become “children of God” and “signs of a new creation.”
“We become saved, unlike the fruit of evil, which is decay, death and corruption. The Word of God resists that. The Word of God fights that. So let us accept the Word of God, so that we may be recreated and bear good fruit,” he said.
He ended that portion of his homily with a warning: “If we do not accept the Word of God, decay and corruption simply continue.”
Balagapo was ordained a priest in 1996 for the Archdiocese of Palo. He later entered the diplomatic service of the Holy See before assuming his current post at the Dicastery for Evangelization, one of the Vatican offices led by Cardinal Tagle.
The anniversary Mass drew hundreds of parishioners from across Eastern Visayas to honor one of the region’s highest-ranking Filipino churchmen serving in the Vatican.
HERITAGE IN LIGHTS. Heritage-themed arches line the streets of Carigara, Leyte, as part of the town’s signature “Kalsada ni Gara” competition, transforming the town proper into an open-air gallery that celebrates the municipality’s rich history, culture, and artistry during its 431st fiesta celebration. The colorful installations, crafted by clustered barangays and local government offices, have become one of the fiesta’s biggest attractions.
(Photo Courtesy,Ericson Tuazon Cabrera Facebook)
HERITAGE IN LIGHTS. Heritage-themed arches line the streets of Carigara, Leyte, as part of the town’s signature “Kalsada ni Gara” competition, transforming the town proper into an open-air gallery that celebrates the municipality’s rich history, culture, and artistry during its 431st fiesta celebration. The colorful installations, crafted by clustered barangays and local government offices, have become one of the fiesta’s biggest attractions. (Photo Courtesy,Ericson Tuazon Cabrera Facebook)
TACLOBAN CITY — As dusk settles over Carigara, Leyte, ordinary streets come alive with towering arches, dazzling lights, and stories carved into every detail. For this year’s 431st fiesta celebration, the historic Leyte town has once again transformed its town proper into a vibrant showcase of culture and heritage through its signature attraction, “Kalsada ni Gara.”
Far more than colorful fiesta decorations, the heritage-inspired arches lining Carigara’s streets serve as visual narratives of the town’s centuries-old history, traditions, and identity.
This year’s “Kalsada ni Gara” features 10 intricately designed arches created by clustered barangays and various local government departments, turning the municipality into an open-air gallery where art, history, and community pride converge.
For Carigara Mayor Eduardo Ong Jr., the project is about redefining how a town celebrates its annual fiesta.
“During fiesta sa lahat ng town, meron talagang banderitas, but we are bringing it to the next level by making sure na every street sa Carigara ay may mga arch sa town proper. Nakikita ninyo na hindi lang siya art lang, but it reflects the culture of Carigara and what makes Carigara unique,” Ong said.
Unlike traditional fiesta decorations that primarily add color to the festivities, each arch tells a unique story inspired by Carigara’s heritage, craftsmanship, and local traditions. Organizers deliberately gave participants creative freedom, requiring only that the entries remain non-political and free from images of politicians.
The result is a collection of installations that celebrates not personalities but the town itself—its people, history, and enduring traditions.
Ong said the initiative is designed to deepen appreciation for Carigara’s cultural heritage while encouraging residents, especially the younger generation, to take pride in their roots despite the rapid pace of modernization.
“This is our way of showing who we are as Carigaranons. Every display, every performance, and every product tells a story about our town,” the mayor said.
Held annually as part of the July 16 fiesta honoring the town’s patron saint, “Kalsada ni Gara” has evolved into one of Carigara’s most anticipated attractions, drawing residents, returning hometown visitors, and tourists who stroll through streets illuminated by heritage-themed arches and festive lights.
More than a visual spectacle, the event has become a celebration of identity—one where every street corner offers a glimpse into Carigara’s past while reaffirming the community’s commitment to preserving its cultural legacy for generations to come.
Campus awareness. Police officers from the 1st Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company conduct a symposium at Eastern Samar State University (ESSU)-Can-avid Campus, educating students on the dangers of illegal drugs, bullying, and violent extremism as part of the Philippine National Police’s continuing youth awareness campaign. (1ST ESPMFC FACEBOOK)
Campus awareness. Police officers from the 1st Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company conduct a symposium at Eastern Samar State University (ESSU)-Can-avid Campus, educating students on the dangers of illegal drugs, bullying, and violent extremism as part of the Philippine National Police’s continuing youth awareness campaign. (1ST ESPMFC FACEBOOK)
TACLOBAN CITY — Police officers conducted an awareness symposium for students of Eastern Samar State University (ESSU)-Can-avid Campus, equipping them with information on the dangers of illegal drugs, bullying, and violent extremism as part of efforts to promote a safer and more informed school community.
The symposium was organized by the 1st Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st ESPMFC) as part of its continuing campaign to educate young people on issues affecting public safety and security.
Led by PMaj. Marval Diaz, officer-in-charge of the 1st ESPMFC, the activity opened with a lecture on anti-illegal drugs, where participants learned the difference between legal and illegal drugs, their harmful effects on the body, and the importance of making responsible and healthy life choices.
This was followed by a discussion on anti-bullying, which highlighted the various forms of bullying, their impact on victims, and the need to foster respect, empathy, and a safe learning environment within schools.
The final session focused on anti-terrorism awareness, with Diaz discussing the alleged recruitment tactics used by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), including the spread of misinformation, manipulation, and false promises aimed at vulnerable sectors, particularly the youth.
He also explained the objectives of Executive Order No. 70, which created the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), and discussed the government’s whole-of-nation approach in addressing insurgency, as well as indicators of terrorist recruitment and radicalization.
Diaz likewise underscored the role of local government officials, communities, and the Philippine National Police in advancing peace, security, and nation-building.
Students and faculty members later participated in an open forum, where they raised questions and exchanged views with the resource speakers.
The 1st ESPMFC said it will continue conducting similar educational activities to strengthen community awareness and encourage young people to become responsible citizens and active partners in promoting peace, public safety, and national security.
PEACEBUILDING EFFORTS.Northern Samar Governor Harris Ongchuan meets with officials of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), led by Peace Process Office Director Noly Mapili, along with 803rd Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Carmelito Pangatungan, to discuss strengthening peacebuilding and reintegration programs for former rebels and sustaining the province’s gains toward lasting peace. Also present was OPAPRU Eastern Visayas Program Manager Imelda Bonifacio.
(The PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)
PEACEBUILDING EFFORTS.Northern Samar Governor Harris Ongchuan meets with officials of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), led by Peace Process Office Director Noly Mapili, along with 803rd Infantry Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Carmelito Pangatungan, to discuss strengthening peacebuilding and reintegration programs for former rebels and sustaining the province’s gains toward lasting peace. Also present was OPAPRU Eastern Visayas Program Manager Imelda Bonifacio. (The PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)
TACLOBAN CITY — The Northern Samar provincial government is seeking continued assistance from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) to expand reintegration programs for former rebels and strengthen peacebuilding efforts as the province works to sustain its gains toward lasting peace.
Governor Harris Ongchuan made the appeal during a meeting with OPAPRU Peace Process Office Director Noly Mapili, who recently visited the province to discuss measures aimed at strengthening existing peace initiatives and improving support for former rebels and conflict-affected communities.
Mapili was accompanied by OPAPRU Eastern Visayas Program Manager Imelda Bonifacio.
During the meeting, Ongchuan underscored the importance of closer collaboration among local government units, national government agencies, and peace partners to improve referral systems that would give former rebels better access to education, employment, livelihood assistance, rehabilitation services, and other government support.
The governor also appealed for sustained national government assistance for housing projects intended for peacebuilders and their families to help them rebuild their lives and complete their reintegration into mainstream society.
OPAPRU has previously committed funding for housing units at Kauswagan Village, the province’s resettlement site for former rebels. The provincial government, in partnership with the Provincial Task Force Balik Loob and the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC), has already completed a model housing unit in the area.
For his part, Mapili welcomed the province’s proposal to expand its reintegration initiatives, including the establishment of another Darangpan Center in Northern Samar’s Second District to accommodate the growing number of former rebels returning to government fold.
Northern Samar has posted significant accomplishments through its Local Social Integration Program and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which are being implemented with support from the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the provincial government through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office-managed Darangpan Center.
According to the provincial government, the programs have enabled many former rebels to reunite with their families, complete their education, obtain stable jobs, and establish sustainable livelihoods.
The provincial government said it remains committed to strengthening partnerships and expanding programs that will support reintegration efforts and promote lasting peace, reconciliation, and inclusive development across Northern Samar.
