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From self-centered to Christ-centered

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THIS is why we are here. It is the purpose of our lives, the meaning of our existence. We should never lose sight of that. Life places before us a decisive choice: to remain centered on ourselves or to live with Christ, who reveals what it truly means to be human. He is “the way, the truth and the life,” leading us to full communion with God.

The path is not easy. It demands effort, perseverance, sacrifice, and the willingness to struggle against our weaknesses. Yet we should never forget that God has already given us everything we need through Christ and in the Holy Spirit. He calls us to become his image and likeness, his adopted children, destined to share in his own life and divine nature.
To help us reach that goal, God pours out his grace. He strengthens us with faith, hope, and charity. He gives us the truths we need to understand and live by. He offers mercy whenever we stumble, knowing that failures and shortcomings are inevitable during our earthly journey. His generosity never runs dry, even when ours does.

Our task, then, is to detach ourselves little by little from our selfishness so that Christ may grow within us. We must steadily loosen the grip of self-centeredness and allow ourselves to be transformed into his image. The more we resemble Christ, the more we become the people we were created to be.

This lifelong mission is a partnership between God’s grace and our cooperation. Grace always comes first, but it calls for a generous response. We must die to ourselves so that the life of God can flourish in us. We surrender our selfish desires not because we lose ourselves, but because we finally discover our true selves in Christ.

Christ himself makes this clear: “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?” (Mt 16:24-26).

These words challenge the way we usually think. They invite us to rethink success, happiness, and especially love. Real love is never about clinging to ourselves. It is about giving ourselves away. Paradoxically, when we let go of selfishness, we become filled with what truly belongs to us—the very love of God.

Christ is the perfect example. As St. Paul writes, although he was God, he did not cling to his divine status for his own advantage. Instead, he emptied himself, took the form of a servant, and became like us. (Phil 2:5-7). His greatness was revealed not by self-promotion but by complete self-giving.

That is why we must radically reshape our understanding of love. Authentic love always requires sacrifice. It means losing in order to gain, surrendering in order to receive something infinitely greater. Every genuine act of self-giving draws us closer to God and makes us more capable of loving as Christ loves.

Christ illustrated this truth in his parables of the treasure hidden in a field and the merchant searching for fine pearls. Those who discover what is truly valuable gladly give up everything else to possess it. We should never settle for what is merely good when God offers us what is best.

Christ asks us to lose by worldly standards so that we may win by God’s standards. He calls us to move beyond simply living for ourselves and to become another Christ, reflecting his very life in the world every day.

NSSDEO Personnel participates in DPWH Document Tracker (DDT) cascading workshop

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Brgy. Burabud, Laoang, Northern Samar –The Department of Public Works and Highways Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office (DPWH NSSDEO), through its Records Officer and Records Coordinator, successfully participated in the Cascading of the DPWH Document Tracker (DDT) Workshop held on June 26, 2026, at the DPWH-Multi-Purpose Hall, Government Center, Baras, Palo, Leyte.

Representing the DPWH NSSDEO were Administrative Officer III (Records Officer II) Joemar M. Patilan, accompanied by Administrative Aide I Leny D. Espelimbergo, Jr., alternate Records Coordinator assigned to the Records Management Unit. They were joined by the designated Records Coordinators from the District Engineer’s Office: Computer Maintenance Technologist II Edmund P. Somoray and Administrative Aide VI (Clerk III) Ma. Aiza B. Lozano.

This activity is pursuant to the Memorandum dated June 11, 2026, issued by DPWH Undersecretary for Support Services, Usec. Rio T. Espiritu, CPA, directing all DPWH Regional Directors to conduct the DPWH Document Tracker (DDT) Workshop for Regional Office and District Engineering Office personnel.

The conduct of DPWH Document Tracker Workshop by the DPWH Regional Office VIII personnel is in compliance with the said directive, which tasked all Regional Office personnel who attended and successfully completed the said workshop at the DPWH Central Office to cascade the training to Records Officers and Records Coordinators of their respective Regional Offices and District Engineering Offices. The workshop likewise supports the implementation of the Memorandum dated May 13, 2026, issued by Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon, prescribing the Interim Guidelines on the Use of the Document Tracking Application.

The workshop is part of the Department’s continuing efforts on strengthening its records management systems and streamlining internal processes through the implementation of the new Document Tracking Application. It also reinforces the Departments commitment in ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficient public service delivery in compliance with Republic Act No. 11032, otherwise known as the “Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018”.

Through this initiative, DPWH NSSDEO reaffirms its commitment to modernizing government services and providing faster, more responsive, and efficient public service delivery across all its offices.

(Jinky A. Dela Cruz/PR)

Nearly 179K E. Visayas 4Ps families receive UPLIFT aid; beneficiaries thank PBBM

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UPLIFT BENEFICIARIES. Thousands of 4Ps beneficiaries in Eastern Visayas receive their P2,000 UPLIFT Assistance from the DSWD, providing additional support to help families cope with rising costs of basic necessities under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (Photo courtesy of DSWD-Eastern Visayas)
UPLIFT BENEFICIARIES. Thousands of 4Ps beneficiaries in Eastern Visayas receive their P2,000 UPLIFT Assistance from the DSWD, providing additional support to help families cope with rising costs of basic necessities under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (Photo courtesy of DSWD-Eastern Visayas)

TACLOBAN CITY (PIA) — For thousands of low-income families across Eastern Visayas, the additional P2,000 received under the government’s Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) assistance means more than financial relief—it means food on the table, school support for children, and renewed hope amid rising living costs.

A total of 178,795 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries in Eastern Visayas have received the one-time UPLIFT top-up grant, providing immediate assistance to help families cope with the effects of the energy emergency and the continued increase in the prices of basic commodities.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) released the cash assistance through beneficiaries’ existing 4Ps cash cards and e-wallets, allowing recipients to access the funds quickly and conveniently.

According to DSWD-8 Regional Director Grace Subong, the UPLIFT assistance was designed to strengthen the purchasing power of vulnerable households during a period of economic challenges.

“The UPLIFT Assistance aims to provide additional financial support so beneficiaries can maintain their purchasing power amid the effects of the energy emergency and the continued increase in the prices of essential goods,” Subong said.

The regional rollout formally began on July 20, when 17,219 beneficiaries—about 20 percent of the regional target—received their payouts during simultaneous kick-off activities in Alangalang, Villaba, Baybay City, Ormoc City and Tacloban City in Leyte; Naval, Biliran; Catarman, Northern Samar; Calbayog City and Catbalogan City in Samar; Borongan City, Eastern Samar; and Sogod and Maasin City in Southern Leyte.
For many beneficiaries, every peso carries the promise of another meal and another day of stability for their families.

Among them is Jenny Martinez of Almeria, Biliran, who said the assistance came just when her family needed it most.

“Thank you very much. We can now buy rice and viands. This is already a big help for our family,” Martinez said in the vernacular, expressing her gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for extending additional assistance to vulnerable Filipinos through the UPLIFT program.

In Southern Leyte, Junela L. Artigo, a 4Ps beneficiary from Liloan, said the grant will allow her family to purchase additional food and provide school allowance for their children.
“We are thankful to DSWD and to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for this assistance to us 4Ps beneficiaries. We can now buy additional food and provide allowance for our students. Thank you very much for the UPLIFT program,” Artigo said.

The DSWD continues to encourage all beneficiaries to use the assistance for their families’ essential needs, particularly food, education, and other basic household expenses.
As households continue to navigate the impact of higher prices, the UPLIFT assistance has become an immediate source of relief for thousands of families in Eastern Visayas. Beyond the monetary value of the grant, beneficiaries say it reassures them that the government remains responsive to the needs of those most affected by economic challenges.

For families like Martinez’s and Artigo’s, the additional P2,000 represents more than temporary financial support—it is a reminder that every government intervention, no matter how modest, can help ease daily burdens and provide hope for a more secure future.

(RLA/PIA Eastern Visayas)

Samar eyes more international cruise calls as DOT assesses tourism sites

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Tourism officials and representatives from the cruise industry assess tourism attractions, ports and community-based experiences in Samar as part of efforts to identify potential shore excursion destinations for international cruise. (DOT-EASTERN VISAYAS FACEBOOK)
Tourism officials and representatives from the cruise industry assess tourism attractions, ports and community-based experiences in Samar as part of efforts to identify potential shore excursion destinations for international cruise.
(DOT-EASTERN VISAYAS FACEBOOK)

TACLOBAN CITY — Samar is positioning more of its tourism attractions and community-based experiences for inclusion in future international cruise itineraries as the Department of Tourism (DOT) evaluates the province’s destinations, ports and facilities for possible shore excursions.

The DOT Eastern Visayas Regional Office recently completed a cruise site assessment in Samar led by TravelPeople Ltd. Inc., with representatives from Wallem Shipping Philippines Inc., in coordination with the Samar Provincial Tourism Office and concerned local government units.

The assessment covered tourism sites and port facilities in the province’s first and second districts, focusing on accessibility, visitor facilities, tourism attractions, community-based experiences and the capacity of destinations to accommodate international cruise passengers.

In the first district, the assessment team visited Calbayog City and the island municipalities of Sto. Niño and Almagro, among other destinations.

Sites evaluated included Calbayog Port, Manguino-o Port, Lahung Beach, Papan Rock Formation, Island Vista Dive and Beach Resort, Mapaso Hot Spring, Marble Park, Malajog Beach, Tarangban Falls, Kirikite Exotic Diving Resort and Marine Sanctuary, and the Barobataay Ritual.

The team also observed local cultural and community-based experiences, including a tinapa-making demonstration, a heritage tour in Calbayog City and engagements with local tourism stakeholders.

The assessment team met with Samar First District Rep. Stephen James Tan, Calbayog City Mayor Raymund Uy, Vice Mayor Rex Daguman and Almagro Mayor Candido Bona to discuss opportunities for cruise tourism development and possible future collaboration.
The team also visited destinations in the province’s second district, including Catbalogan City, Paranas and Basey.

In Catbalogan City, the team inspected the Catbalogan Fish Port, while in Paranas, it assessed Saints Peter and Paul Parish Church, the Pinungko na Mani cooking demonstration, Arboretum ni Papa Donoy, the Paranas Ecotrail and Birding Site, and the Ulot River Torpedo Boat Ride Adventure.

Sohoton Cave and Natural Bridge Park in Basey were also evaluated as a potential shore excursion destination for international cruise passengers.

Catbalogan City and Paranas are among the destinations included in a scheduled 2027–2028 cruise call by Compagnie du Ponant, making the assessment part of preparations for the planned itinerary.

The DOT said the assessment forms part of its continuing efforts to strengthen Eastern Visayas as an emerging cruise tourism destination by identifying attractions and facilities that can meet international cruise standards while offering visitors distinctive local and community-based experiences.

The assessment comes as Samar continues to gain exposure in the international cruise tourism market. The province received its first international cruise ship, the Heritage Adventurer, in June 2025, with the vessel returning in June this year.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

Calbayog City moves to tighten airport safety rules amid expansion plans

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SAFE AIRPORT.City officials, CAAP representatives and community stakeholders participate in the third public hearing on the proposed Calbayog Airport Safety and Security Ordinance at the Calbayog City Convention Center on July 17, 2026. The proposed measure seeks to regulate activities and structures around the airport to prevent hazards to aircraft operations amid planned infrastructure improvements and expansion projects.(File Photo)
SAFE AIRPORT.City officials, CAAP representatives and community stakeholders participate in the third public hearing on the proposed Calbayog Airport Safety and Security Ordinance at the Calbayog City Convention Center on July 17, 2026. The proposed measure seeks to regulate activities and structures around the airport to prevent hazards to aircraft operations amid planned infrastructure improvements and expansion projects.(File Photo)

TACLOBAN CITY — The proposed ordinance regulating activities, structures and other potential hazards around Calbayog Airport is moving forward as city officials and aviation stakeholders seek to strengthen passenger safety and support the airport’s planned expansion.

The Sangguniang Panlungsod held its third public hearing on the proposed Calbayog Airport Safety and Security Ordinance on July 17 at the city Convention Center, with local government officials, representatives of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and community stakeholders taking part in the discussions.

The proposed measure seeks to prohibit activities that could endanger aircraft operations, including bird raising and pigeon racing within a 12-kilometer radius of the airport, open burning, rice planting near the runway, kite flying, and the use of spotlights and laser devices that could temporarily impair pilots’ vision.

It also sets height restrictions for buildings and other structures near the airport. Property owners and developers would be required to secure the necessary height clearances or permits from the City Engineer’s Office and CAAP before undertaking construction.
The public hearing also tackled regulations covering fish pens and ponds, including “bonoan,” in areas near aircraft approach paths. Operators would be required to obtain appropriate clearances and permits from the City Agriculture Office and CAAP to help prevent the presence of birds that could pose a hazard to aircraft.

Violations of national aviation laws may carry fines ranging from P50,000 to P500,000 and imprisonment of up to three years, depending on the offense. Under the proposed local ordinance, penalties would include progressive fines of P1,000 for a first offense, P2,000 for a second offense and P3,000, with possible imprisonment of up to six months or community service for succeeding violations.

The proposed ordinance comes as the city prepares for infrastructure improvements at and around Calbayog Airport, including the construction of a perimeter wall, asphalt overlay and runway connectivity projects.

Some properties in areas such as Barangay Basud may be affected by the planned developments. City officials said coordination is being undertaken with the Urban Development and Housing Act (UDHA) office to address the relocation of affected residents.
The hearing also included discussions on the proposed rerouting of National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) power lines and possible cost-sharing arrangements to ensure unobstructed aircraft operations, including one-way and nighttime landing operations.

City officials said the safety measures are intended to support the modernization and expansion of Calbayog Airport, which could eventually allow the operation of larger aircraft and help improve air connectivity and potentially reduce airfares for residents of Calbayog and nearby communities.

(JOEY A. GABIETA)

53 Paranas senior citizens receive cash gifts under Expanded Centenarians Act

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Fifty-three senior citizens in Paranas, Samar receive cash gifts under the Expanded Centenarians Act, which provides financial incentives to qualified elderly Filipinos who reach milestone ages. (The Municipal Government of Paranas, Samar Facebook)

In Samar

Fifty-three senior citizens in Paranas, Samar receive cash gifts under the Expanded Centenarians Act, which provides financial incentives to qualified elderly Filipinos who reach milestone ages. (The Municipal Government of Paranas, Samar Facebook)

TACLOBAN CITY-Fifty-three senior citizens in Paranas, Samar have received cash gifts under the government’s Expanded Centenarians Act, which provides financial incentives to elderly Filipinos who reach milestone ages.

Under Republic Act No. 11982, qualified senior citizens receive P10,000 upon reaching the ages of 80, 85, 90 and 95, while those who reach 100 years old are entitled to P100,000 and a Letter of Felicitation from the President of the Philippines.

The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) administers the program, including the acceptance of applications, verification of documents, validation of beneficiaries and processing of cash gifts, subject to existing guidelines and fund availability.

The Paranas municipal government, through its Office of Senior Citizens Affairs and other concerned offices, assisted the beneficiaries in preparing and submitting documentary requirements, coordinating with the NCSC and facilitating the payout.

The local government clarified that inclusion in the list of beneficiaries is based on the NCSC’s verification and approval in accordance with RA 11982.

The municipal government congratulated the beneficiaries and reaffirmed its support for programs that recognize the contributions and promote the welfare of senior citizens.

RA 11982, or the Expanded Centenarians Act, broadened government recognition for senior citizens by extending cash incentives beyond those who reach 100 years old. The program provides financial assistance at key milestone ages while honoring the elderly for their long lives and contributions to their families and communities.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

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