TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in the region along with its Provincial Statistical Offices, remains dedicated to registering children ages 1 to 4 through the Rehistro Bulilit initiative.

Since July 2024, registration teams have visited various barangays and municipalities, making the process engaging for young registrants by offering parlor games and perks to keep them entertained while waiting.

Parents and guardians are oriented on the importance of the National ID, the necessary documents, and the registration process.

The PSA has partnered with local government units and national agencies to strengthen the implementation of Rehistro Bulilit, aiming for 100% registration of young children into the National ID system.

As of now, approximately 100,000 children in the region have been registered since the program began in February 2024.

The PSA-8 encourages all parents and guardians to accompany their children to any PSA National ID Registration Center or Rehistro Bulilit schedule in their respective barangay or municipality.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

TACLOBAN CITY — Representative Jude Acidre of Tingog party-list group has strongly condemned the previous administration’s approach to the war on drugs, citing significant human rights violations and the tragic loss of innocent lives.

“The issues are clear—problems lay in how the policies against illegal drugs were enforced by the previous administration. Instead of being fair and just, the approach became violent and bloody, violating human rights and our Constitution,” he stated.

Acidre emphasized the need for accountability at all levels of government. “As a nation, we have a responsibility to hold those at fault accountable, including those in the highest levels of government, up to former President Rodrigo Duterte. We must let the wheels of justice turn. If found guilty, Rodrigo Duterte should be imprisoned,” he asserted.

Rep. Acidre warned that failure to address these issues could undermine public trust in governance.

“The Philippines is not a ‘no man’s land’—it is not a place without laws and accountability. We are a nation founded on democracy and governed by the rule of law, the foundation of our democratic society,” the lawmaker noted.

He concluded with a strong call for justice: “We must ensure that those at fault are held accountable to restore public trust and guide our nation toward a more humane and just government.”
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

Manila-The United States government is providing P84 million ($1.5 million) to support the Philippine government’s response to Tropical Storm Kristine, known internationally as Trami.

This funding will augment the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) ongoing efforts to deliver lifesaving assistance that will help individuals severely affected by the storm in the Bicol region and Batangas recover safely and with dignity. Through this funding, USAID will provide access to essential services such as clean water, sanitation, emergency shelter, and cash assistance. USAID will also provide logistical support in the management of evacuation centers.

On October 27, USAID supported the Philippines’ Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in dispatching 1,500 shelter-grade tarpaulins and 1,500 household relief kits to the Bicol region through a C-130 provided by the Singaporean government. These disaster relief items were prepositioned in the OCD humanitarian relief depot at Fort Magsaysay, an Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) site in Nueva Ecija.

U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson and Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. launched this critical joint humanitarian prepositioning effort in September.
“My heart goes out to all those suffering the devastating effects of Tropical Storm Kristine,” Ambassador Carlson said. “We are working side by side with the Philippine government to bring relief to communities in need.”

Since October 25, the United States has worked with humanitarian partners to deliver lifesaving humanitarian relief material prepositioned across the country. With USAID funding, the World Food Programme mobilized 33 trucks to support the Philippine Department of Social Welfare and Development in delivering more than 53,000 family food packs and other relief items to the Bicol region.

This assistance builds on the U.S. government’s previous support to Philippine government’s disaster response efforts, such as during the massive flooding in Mindanao in February, Super Typhoon Carina in July, and Super Typhoon Julian earlier in October.

Since 2010, the U.S. government has provided more than Php21.85 billion ($390.2 million) in disaster relief, preparedness, and early recovery in the Philippines. USAID works year-round to help communities build resilience in preparing for, and responding to, the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters.(PR)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Leyte 2nd District Engineering Office (L2DEO) of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has recently completed a multi-purpose building (MPB) at Carigara II Central School in Barangay Jugaban, Carigara, Leyte.

This new facility provides a dedicated and reliable venue for students and teachers to conduct school-related activities.

According to District Engineer Leo Edward Oppura, DPWH-L2DEO allocated P4.93 million for the construction of the 20-meter by 12-meter MPB under its multi-purpose buildings/facilities to Support Social Services Program.

This project aims to support the school’s operational needs and enhance students’ learning experience by providing a safe and functional space for various programs.

“The MPB project includes the construction of structural concrete for columns and beams, steel trusses, roofing, lighting fixtures, and painting works. The building is also equipped with an elevated stage, toilet facilities, and storage rooms,” Engineer Oppura shared.
The facility will host activities for learners from Kindergarten through Grade 6, fostering creativity and academic engagement. This comfortable and well-equipped venue is set to become an essential space for school events.

The project, implemented by KRC Construction & Supply, commenced on April 23, 2024, and was completed on September 19, 2024. It was funded under the CY 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)