The Philippine Statistics Authority – Regional Statistical Services Office VIII (PSA RSSO VIII) successfully conducted a three-day Briefing on the Implementation of the Expanded Premium Annotation Under the Civil Registry System Information Technology Project Phase II (CRS ITP II) at the Civil Registry System (CRS) Tacloban City Outlet on 22–24 October 2025 at the PSA RSSO VIII Training Room, 2nd Floor, Gaisano Capital, Real Street, Tacloban City.
The training was led by Ms. Emily R. Macario, Ms. Belen S. Centena, and Ms. Meraflor P. Diegas from the PSA Headquarters. Regional Director Wilma A. Perante welcomed the participants, including presidents of the six Local Civil Registrar Associations, Chief Statistical Specialists (CSSs), PSA RSSO VIII and CRS personnel, and Rose A. Ballera, Officer-in-Charge of the Civil Registration and Administrative Support Division (CRASD).
In the message of RD Perante, she emphasized that the Expanded Premium Annotation under the CRS-ITP2 streamlines and speeds up the annotation of civil registry documents, such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, that have been altered by court decrees or legal instruments. She added that this new system aims to provide faster service delivery, with a target of 10 working days for document issuance, making civil registration services more efficient and accessible to the public.
During the first two days, discussions focused on Premium Annotation processes, as well as the basic concepts and procedures of Republic Acts No. 9048 and 10172, Court Decrees, Legal Instruments, and Supplemental Reports.
On the final day, participants observed the live implementation of the premium annotation process at CRS Tacloban City Outlet.
The civil registry document for Mr. Gilbert E. Gamale from Hinundayan, Southern Leyte was successfully processed, who expressed his appreciation for being one of the first to experience this enhanced service. This marked a significant milestone for the region.
As one of six pilot regions nationwide implementing the Expanded Premium Annotation under the CRS ITP II, PSA RSSO VIII and CRS Tacloban City Outlet remain committed to modernize the civil registration system through digital improvements and expanded services. (PR)
KERWIN’S 100 DAYS AS ALBUERA MAYOR. Mayor Rolan ‘Kerwin’ Espinosa delivered his State of the Municipal Address on Monday, Oct.27, coinciding his 100 days in office. During his speech, Mayor Espinosa enumerated his accomplishments which include making his town illegal drug-free, implementation of social welfare programs. He also promised to put up a hospital in Albuera.
(LIZBETH ANN A.ABELLA)
KERWIN’S 100 DAYS AS ALBUERA MAYOR. Mayor Rolan ‘Kerwin’ Espinosa delivered his State of the Municipal Address on Monday, Oct.27, coinciding his 100 days in office. During his speech, Mayor Espinosa enumerated his accomplishments which include making his town illegal drug-free, implementation of social welfare programs. He also promised to put up a hospital in Albuera. (LIZBETH ANN A.ABELLA)
ALBUERA, Leyte– Focusing on good governance, transparency, and people-centered service, Mayor Rolan ‘Kerwin’ Espinosa marked his first 100 days in office by presenting a comprehensive accomplishment report highlighting reforms, social welfare programs, and development initiatives that aim to build a more responsive and progressive Albuera.
The report was delivered on October 27, 2025, at the ABC Gym, attended by Vice Mayor Mariel “Ar-Ar” Espinosa Marinay, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, barangay officials, department heads, and representatives from national agencies and partner organizations.
Mayor Espinosa’s administration has centered its efforts on strengthening public accountability, expanding social services, and promoting sustainable growth across the municipality.
One of his earliest initiatives was the Senior Citizens’ Birthday Program, launched on his first day in office, which grants P1,000 cash assistance and a birthday cake to every senior citizen. From July to October, 904 elderly residents have already benefited from this program — a campaign promise fulfilled within his first 100 days.
To ensure effective coordination among local officials, the mayor convened regular meetings with the vice mayor, council members, and department heads to align priorities and streamline the delivery of public services.
Promoting transparency, Espinosa reconstituted the Joint Inspection Team through Executive Order No. 11-A to regulate business operations, enforce compliance with environmental and labor laws, and ensure establishments pay the correct dues. Several violators have since been ordered to suspend operations in accordance with the Local Government Code of 1991 (RA 7160).
The administration also revived the project monitoring committee to oversee infrastructure projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 4th District of Leyte, ensuring accountability and quality implementation.
Espinosa likewise intensified the anti-drug campaign, requiring surprise drug testing for all municipal employees and working with the Municipal Anti-Drug Council.The local government also convinced 180 youth gang members to voluntarily surrender and participate in rehabilitation and community service programs.
On the environmental front, the municipality launched tree-planting drives, coastal cleanups, and strict monitoring of sand and gravel operations. A rehabilitation plan for Lilang Lake in Barangay Balugo is also underway, part of efforts to preserve natural resources and develop eco-tourism.
Under Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, the local government created a senior citizen action team to ensure the efficient delivery of assistance to the elderly. Meanwhile, the Albuera CARE 24/7 Action Center has provided P1.179 million in financial and hospitalization assistance to indigent residents.
A key highlight of Espinosa’s 100-day report is his plan to establish Albuera’s first municipal hospital. With the Department of Health’s (DOH) support, the town will first set up a Super Rural Health Unit (Super RHU) — a PhilHealth-accredited facility projected to generate P50–P60 million annually in reimbursements, which will help fund the municipal hospital and other health programs.
The Municipal Health Center has already been upgraded with new equipment, computers, and improved internet connectivity. The 2026 budget includes P10 million for the Super RHU, while the DOH has pledged to provide additional medical equipment.
To support local fishermen, the Espinosa administration withdrew from the joint coastal management agreement with Ormoc and Merida, allowing Albuera to reclaim full jurisdiction over its fishing areas. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region VIII is set to visit on November 4, 2025, to finalize transition plans.
Other achievements include resolving long-standing issues with the Barangay Mahayahay Water System Project, the installation of water meters, and exploring the expansion of the water supply to nearby communities.
Mayor Espinosa praised the Sangguniang Bayan, which has passed 217 resolutions and 8 ordinances supporting various development efforts.
“We could not have achieved these milestones without the unwavering support of our vice mayor, council members, department heads, and employees,” Espinosa said. “Together, we are building an Albuera that is transparent, accountable, and truly people-centered.”
“We have only just begun. With your continued trust and cooperation, we will achieve the lasting change and prosperity that the people of Albuera deserve.”
ORMOC CITY-Police arrested a 55-year-old man wanted for multiple counts of cybercrime during an operation conducted on October 22, in Barangay Smo. Rosario, Naval, Biliran.
The suspect, identified as alias “Al,” married and unemployed, is a resident of Barangay San Francisco, Mabalacat City, Pampanga.
He was arrested by virtue of a warrant of arrest issued on October 16, 2025, by Judge Luz Petilla Navarrete of the Regional Trial Court Branch 16 in Naval, Biliran. The warrant was for three counts of violation of Republic Act 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, under criminal case numbers N-4889, N-4890, and N-4891.
The operation was carried out by the Naval Municipal Police Station in coordination with the Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Biliran Provincial Police Office.
Police said the suspect was properly informed of his arrest and his constitutional rights. The court recommended P30,000 bail for each count of the offense.
The accused is now under the custody of the Naval Municipal Police Station for booking and documentation prior to turnover to the issuing court.
TRIBUTE TO TEACHERS. The municipal government of Tanauan, Leyte under Mayor Ma. Gina Merilo, gave honor to the town’s more than 700 teachers during the 3rd Municipal Pasidungog for Teachers, recognizing their dedication and lifelong contribution to the town’s educational development.
(TANAUAN LGU FACEBOOK)
TRIBUTE TO TEACHERS. The municipal government of Tanauan, Leyte under Mayor Ma. Gina Merilo, gave honor to the town’s more than 700 teachers during the 3rd Municipal Pasidungog for Teachers, recognizing their dedication and lifelong contribution to the town’s educational development. (TANAUAN LGU FACEBOOK)
TACLOBAN CITY — The local government unit (LGU) of Tanauan, Leyte, led by Mayor Ma. Gina Merilo, paid tribute to nearly 700 teachers during the 3rd Municipal Pasidungog for Teachers held at the Tanauan Amphitheater, recognizing their dedication and lifelong contribution to the town’s educational development.
Carrying the theme “MAGTURUTDO: Una ha Serbisyo, Bida ha Kabubwason han Bungto” (Teachers: First in Service, Champions of the Town’s Future), the event gathered educators from public and private elementary, secondary, and tertiary institutions across the municipality.
Present during the celebration, held on Monday, Oct. 27, were Department of Education (DepEd) Leyte Division Schools Superintendent Mariza Magan, Vice Mayor Archie Kapunan, and Sangguniang Bayan Members Cherry Anne Fiel, Mark Efren Merilo, Josie Creer, Quintin Octa Jr., and Efren Merilo.
As a gesture of gratitude, Mayor Merilo personally distributed tokens such as umbrellas, fans, and personalized pouch bags to the teachers, symbolizing the town’s appreciation for their selfless service.
“This recognition is our way of showing how much we value our teachers. They are not just educators but the pillars of our community’s future,” said Mayor Merilo in her message.
Now on its third year, the Municipal Pasidungog for Teachers has become one of Tanauan’s signature events honoring the crucial role of teachers in shaping the town’s youth and future leaders. The initiative also reflects the LGU’s continuing partnership with the education sector in promoting quality learning and community development.
Upcoming Maynilad share sale marks the launch of the new IPO subscription feature within the GCash app, offered by broker AB Capital Securities Inc.
As more Filipinos look for ways to grow their investments, GCash is introducing a new IPO subscription feature on GStocks PH, offered by AB Capital Securities, Inc., that will allow everyday investors to participate in Initial Public Offerings (IPOs).
The new feature enables individual investors to easily subscribe to shares when a company lists for the first time on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE). It will launch on GStocks PH within the GCash app from October 23 to 29, aligning with the upcoming Maynilad IPO offer period, and will be available during other initial listings moving forward.
In the past, participating in an IPO was often a fragmented and uncertain process for retail investors. There was limited assurance that subscribed shares would be allocated, and transactions typically took place outside the broker’s main trading platform, which made the overall experience inconvenient and less accessible.
GCash aims to address these barriers by offering a fully digital, unified experience within the app. Through GStocks PH, Filipinos can open a stock trading account, fund it using their GCash wallet, and subscribe to IPO shares all in one platform.
The feature also brings greater transparency to the process by showing investors in real time how many shares are still available for subscription through their broker, and immediately confirming whether their purchase has been successfully allocated or not. By distributing shares on a first-come, first-served basis, this addresses a common issue in past IPOs where retail investors are not always guaranteed their shares, especially when an IPO is oversubscribed. Oversubscription occurs when demand exceeds available shares allocated to the broker.
“Through GStocks PH, we’re ushering in a completely digital IPO experience that addresses traditional barriers that limited how ordinary Filipinos participated in public listings in the past,” said Group Head of New Businesses Winsley Bangit at Mynt (the parent company of GCash)
“We aim to extend the same ease of access and convenience experienced by institutional investors to individual investors while ensuring a secure, transparent, and compliant investment environment for all. The rollout of this feature ensures public offerings are truly open to the public and brings us one step closer to democratizing investing for every Filipino.” he added.”
“Through our continued partnership with GCash, AB Capital Securities is proud to make IPOs more accessible to Filipinos by bringing a fully digital experience via GStocks PH. This aligns with our mission to make investing in stocks more inclusive and transparent,” said AB Capital Securities Inc. Research Head, Hazel Tanedo Tan.
To access the IPO subscription feature, fully verified GCash users with an updated kyc must go to GInvest in the GCash app and register for GStocks PH. The new feature will be launched during the Maynilad IPO from October 23 to 29 and will continue to be available on GStocks PH via AB Capital Securities Inc. during future IPOs and FOOs (follow-on offerings).
GCash continues to deliver accessible and inclusive financial tools that empower Filipinos to build their wealth through smarter investing. (PR)
LAST FAREWELL. Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez bids his final goodbye to his father, former city mayor Alfredo “Bejo” Romualdez, before the latter’s burial at the Romualdez family property in Olot, Tolosa, Leyte, on Saturday, October 25. (Photo from Tacloban City Information Office)
Final Farewell
LAST FAREWELL. Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez bids his final goodbye to his father, former city mayor Alfredo “Bejo” Romualdez, before the latter’s burial at the Romualdez family property in Olot, Tolosa, Leyte, on Saturday, October 25. (Photo from Tacloban City Information Office)
TACLOBAN CITY — Former Tacloban City mayor Alfredo “Bejo” Romualdez, who served the city during a period of rapid development, was laid to rest on Saturday, October 25, at the Romualdez family mausoleum in Barangay Olot, Tolosa, Leyte. He was 91.
Before his interment, a requiem Mass was held at the Santo Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum—the family’s ancestral home in Tacloban—where his remains had been brought on October 21.
The Mass was concelebrated by several priests led by Palo Archbishop John Du, who described the late mayor as “a friend to priests and bishops” and lauded him for his love for Tacloban and dedication to public service.
Romualdez, who passed away on October 17 in a Manila hospital due to multiple organ failure, served as Tacloban City mayor from 1998 to 2007.
During his nine-year term, he oversaw major infrastructure projects such as the Tacloban Convention Center (Astrodome), the public market, and the new bus terminal, while also fostering a business-friendly environment that paved the way for investments and the arrival of major commercial establishments.
His bronze casket, draped with the Philippine flag, was placed on a flower-decked funeral carriage that made its way through key city landmarks, including Tacloban City Hall and the Eye Referral Building, which he owned and had envisioned as a specialty center for eye care.
Despite overcast skies, a large crowd of former city officials, employees, and supporters joined the funeral procession to pay their final respects. At 12:30 p.m., Romualdez was interred beside his parents, Vicente Orestes and Remedios Trinidad Romualdez, in the family mausoleum, with uniformed soldiers carrying his remains during the final rites.
Neither President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. nor his mother, former First Lady Imelda Marcos—Romualdez’s sister—were present at the burial, though both had earlier visited the wake at Heritage Memorial Park in Taguig City. Also notably absent were House Speaker Martin Romualdez and his family.
Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez, the late mayor’s son, became emotional as he thanked those who came to honor his father.
“Thank you all for your support. My father served the Filipino people well,” Mayor Romualdez said, joined by his siblings and his son, Vice Mayor Raymund Romualdez.
Romualdez is remembered not only as a political leader but as a public servant who helped shape Tacloban’s transformation into a thriving regional center—leaving behind a legacy of development, civic pride, and family service deeply rooted in Leyte’s history.
