Oro Broadcast Media - OBM Internet Broadcasting Services

22/07/2024

HIGALAAY FESTIVAL 2024: KEY DATES AND EVENTS UNVEILED

The local government unit (LGU) of Cagayan de Oro has unveiled the schedule for some of the grand activities for the highly anticipated Higalaay Festival 2024. The announcement was made through the official Higalaay Festival page.

Here are the key events:

- August 2, 2024, 6:00 PM - Grand Launching at Rio de Oro Boulevard with Silent Sanctuary
- August 26, 2024, 3:00 PM - Street Dancing Competition at Pelaez Sports Center
- August 27, 2024, 7:00 AM - Civic Military Parade & Float Competition, ending at -
Limketkai Center
- August 28, 2024, 6:00 AM - Religious-Fluvial Procession at St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral

The Higalaay Festival, held throughout the month of August, is Cagayan de Oro City's fiesta in honor of its patron saint, St. Augustine. The festival features a vibrant array of activities that celebrate the city's culture, tradition, and community spirit.

Photo Courtesy: Higalaay Festival / Facebook

22/07/2024

FORMER PRESIDENT RODRIGO DUTERTE AND VICE PRESIDENT SARA DUTERTE ABSENT FROM THIRD SONA OF PRESIDENT MARCOS JR.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte will not attend President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s third State of the Nation Address (Sona), as confirmed by Sen. B**g Go on Monday, just hours before the address at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City.

"He’s in Davao," Go mentioned in an impromptu interview when asked about Duterte's absence. This marks the second consecutive year the former president has skipped Marcos' Sona, citing the same reason in 2023. "I’m not sure. I think he came from China. He’s kind of tired. He’s in Davao," Go had explained before the Senate opened the second regular session of the 19th Congress last year.

Additionally, Vice President Sara Duterte, Duterte's daughter and Marcos' running mate in the 2022 elections, will also miss this year’s Sona. She did not provide specific reasons for her absence but declared herself the "designated survivor."

22/07/2024

LOOK: Highlights from the Opening of the Third Regular Session of the 19th Congress on Monday, July 22, 2024.

During the session, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez emphasized that, under his leadership, the House will remain committed to creating a Philippines where every citizen feels valued, supported, and can live with dignity, opportunity, and hope.

Photo Courtesy: House of Representatives of the Philippines

22/07/2024

CEBU CITY RESTAURANT ADDRESSES INCIDENT INVOLVING LGBTQIA+ MEMBER AND EMPLOYEE

An incident involving an LGBTQIA+ individual and an employee at a local restaurant prompted the establishment to take action and address concerns on Sunday, July 21, 2024.

In a statement released by the restaurant, they expressed deep concern over the incident and assured the public of their commitment to employee welfare. "We are deeply concerned by the incident that happened this past Sunday. We have sat down with the server involved and the rest of our team to console and brief them following the altercation. Rest assured that we are educating our people and placing their welfare of utmost priority," the statement read.

However, a follow-up statement on the same page of Ulli's Streets of Asia expressed support for the employee involved. "The management of Ulli's Streets of Asia stands by our employee involved in the incident. He, along with his teammates, has our support," the post stated.

The establishment further emphasized their commitment to providing a safe and respectful environment for both guests and staff. "We aim to provide a safe and respectful environment for both our guests and our staff. We are taking steps to better handle these situations moving forward," the follow-up statement added.

Photo Courtesy: Ulli’s Street Asia / Facebook

22/07/2024

LGBTQIA+ MEMBER RESPONDS TO VIRAL RESTAURANT INCIDENT IN CEBU CITY

Jude Bacalso, a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, has issued a statement addressing the recent viral incident at a restaurant in a Cebu City mall that occurred on Sunday, July 21, 2024.

In his response, Bacalso described the situation as a series of misunderstandings. He clarified that while he was addressed as "sir" by the restaurant staff, he did not react with anger or raise his voice. “Yes, I was addressed as sir. No, I did not scream or shout at the wait staff who did. My students call me sir and my nephews and nieces call me uncle, so it is no skin off my nose,” Bacalso said. He added that he is accustomed to being misgendered and views such incidents as opportunities for education rather than personal affronts.

Bacalso, who is close to the restaurant’s owners, chose to address the issue privately rather than through public channels. He noted that one of the restaurant owners is a transwoman, whom he has known through her transition. “I informed them directly instead of taking it thoughtlessly to the court of public opinion,” Bacalso explained.

He also addressed concerns about the staff's behavior during the incident. Bacalso confirmed that staff had waited for a resolution with the owners but emphasized that he did not demand any punitive action against them. “The supervisor acknowledged that this incident was a wake-up call and that they would welcome a gender sensitivity seminar,” Bacalso stated.

Bacalso highlighted that Cebu City was one of the first in the country to pass anti-discrimination ordinances, thanks to the efforts of LGBT+ activists and allies. He noted that the seminar, offered by accredited practitioners, aims to educate establishments on inclusive practices.

In his closing remarks, Bacalso reflected on the broader impact of the incident. “What transpired between me and the staff was also a matter to be settled between us, and we were. Quietly. Until that hatemongering post,” he said. He acknowledged that the LGBTQIA+ community's reaction might not be entirely positive but emphasized the importance of ongoing vigilance and advocacy against discrimination.

22/07/2024

LOOK: The Senate formally opened its session today, Monday, July 22, for the third regular session of the 19th Congress.

Photo Courtesy: PTV

22/07/2024

LOOK: Senators arrived at the Senate on Monday, July 22, ahead of the opening of the third regular session.

Photo Courtesy: PTV

21/07/2024

Grace City (Sunday Service)- July 21, 2024

20/07/2024

17/07/2024

BINI FACES BACKLASH FOR WEARING SUNGLASSES AND MASKS AT CEBU AIRPORT

P-Pop Girl Group, BINI, has come under fire for their choice of attire during their arrival at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. A video posted on Facebook by a fan page shows the group wearing sunglasses, hats, and face masks, standing out among other passengers with their security escorts.

Another post from a different angle shows BINI members acknowledging and waving at fans who were waiting and calling out their names. Despite this, some Filipino netizens criticized their airport outfits, comparing them to other popular Filipino artists. Comments on social media labeled their attire as overly dramatic and accused the group of imitating K-pop stars.

One netizen remarked that BINI members should remember they are Filipinas, not Koreans. Another suggested the group cover their faces during concerts to avoid negative reactions from the audience in Cebu.

Facebook user Tio Moreno criticized the group in a viral post, comparing them unfavorably to Filipino pop star Sarah Geronimo. He praised Geronimo's humility and suggested BINI should follow her example.

While some defended BINI, pointing out that celebrities should have the freedom to protect their privacy and health, others argued that public figures are subject to scrutiny. Some have noted that wearing masks and sunglasses is common and can be for health reasons, especially post-pandemic.

BINI members have not yet addressed the controversy. However, BINI Colet recently posted photos of herself wearing a mask and shades on her X account, which fans interpreted as a subtle response to critics, expressing their support for her unbothered attitude.

17/07/2024

VP SARA DUTERTE CLARIFIES SONA ABSENCE AND "DESIGNATED SURVIVOR" REMARK

Vice President Sara Duterte recently clarified her controversial "designated survivor" remark and confirmed her absence from President Ferdinand "B**gbong" Marcos Jr.'s upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22.

Speaking at the Brigada Eskwela National Kickoff in Cebu on July 17, Duterte defended her decision to skip the event. "Ngayon lang ako nakakakita ng ang Vice President, hinahanap ang attendance sa lahat," she remarked in Bisaya, highlighting the unusual scrutiny of her attendance.

Duterte explained that her "designated survivor" comment was neither a joke nor a bomb threat. "Hindi 'yun joke. Hindi rin 'yun bomb threat," she stated. "I think many missed the point." She added, "So para sa akin, kung di mo naintindihan nung unang beses, I don't think you deserve an explanation."

The Vice President did not provide further details regarding her absence from the SONA, leading to speculation about a potential rift with President Marcos. This speculation intensified after Duterte resigned from her positions as the Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) and Vice Chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on June 19.

Despite these resignations, Duterte clarified that her relationship with President Marcos remains amicable. “We are still friendly with each other on a personal level,” she assured.

President Marcos' third SONA is scheduled to take place at the Batasang Pambansa Pilipinas, with over 2,000 guests confirmed to attend as of July 9, according to an official from the House of Representatives. The event will outline the administration's accomplishments and future plans, drawing significant attention from both the public and political figures.

17/07/2024

MANILA RANKED FIFTH RISKIEST CITY FOR TOURISTS BY FORBES ADVISOR

Manila has been named the fifth riskiest city for tourists among 60 international cities, according to a recent report by Forbes Advisor. The report highlights several factors contributing to Manila's ranking, including natural disasters, personal security, and health security risks.

"Manila has the highest natural disaster risk, the fifth highest personal security risk, and the seventh highest health security risk," the Forbes Advisor report stated. These elements combined have placed Manila in the top five of the riskiest cities for tourists globally.

Topping the list as the riskiest city is Caracas, Venezuela, known for its high crime rates and political instability. In contrast, Singapore has been identified as the safest city for tourists, credited for its stringent law enforcement and robust healthcare system.

17/07/2024

BIR IMPLEMENTS WITHHOLDING TAX ON ONLINE MARKETPLACE OPERATORS

On Tuesday, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) announced that major electronic marketplace operators like Shopee and Lazada have begun enforcing a withholding tax on their sellers. This move, effective from July 15, 2024, marks a significant step in tax compliance within the digital economy.

According to BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr., this initiative follows Revenue Regulation 16-2023, issued last December, which mandates a 1-percent withholding tax on online merchants earning over P500,000 annually. The tax applies to half of the gross remittances received by electronic marketplace operators and digital financial service providers (DFSPs) like GCash and Maya, which facilitate transactions for online sellers.

Lumagui clarified that this withholding tax aims to ensure tax parity between online and traditional brick-and-mortar stores. It functions as a preemptive tax collection system, credited against sellers' total income tax liabilities.

The BIR's definition of electronic marketplaces encompasses platforms facilitating online sales of goods and services, including digital food delivery and accommodation booking services.

To comply, online sellers must register with the BIR and provide their certificate of registration to their chosen electronic marketplace and DFSPs. Sellers aiming for exemption from the withholding tax must submit a sworn declaration to the platform, confirming their gross remittances will not exceed P500,000.

Economists such as Robert Dan Roces of Security Bank Corp. and Michael Ricafort of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. anticipate varied impacts on consumers and sellers, highlighting potential price increases and reduced consumer choices as possible outcomes.

The BIR expects this measure to bolster tax collections amid the increasing prevalence of online transactions, thereby broadening the government's revenue base.

17/07/2024

NMRAA SECURES 9TH PLACEI N 2024 PALARONG PAMBANSA WITH 84 MEDALS

The Northern Mindanao Regional Athletic Association (NMRAA) concluded the 2024 Palarong Pambansa in 9th place, securing a total of 84 medals. The haul includes 14 golds, 27 silvers, and 43 bronzes. Despite winning more medals compared to last year's 72 total, the NMRAA's overall ranking dropped from 7th place in 2023.

Notably, NMRAA ranked among the Top 5 in the Elementary Level, showcasing strong performances by its young athletes. However, in the Secondary Level, the contingent finished in 12th place.

The NMRAA remains committed to enhancing its athletes' skills and competitiveness. With a focus on training and development programs, the association aims to improve its standings in future Palarong Pambansa events.

The Palarong Pambansa continues to be a significant platform for young athletes across the Philippines, promoting talent, sportsmanship, and regional pride.

17/07/2024

NATIONAL DISABILITY RIGHTS WEEK CELEBRATION 2024 KICKS OFF TODAY JULY 17

Cagayan de Oro City. Different barangay based PWD Organizations, Non Government PWD Organizations and concerned government offices and agencies joins the kick off activities for the 2024 NATIONAL DISABILITY RIGHTS WEEK. A holy mass was offered at the St, Augustine Cathedral then followed by a Motorcade around the city proper. Having this years theme of 'Promoting Inclusion: Celebrating Abilities and Advocating Access' through President Marcos declaring July 17 to 23 of every year as “National Disability Rights Week” to protect the rights of and promote respect for persons with disabilities.

The declaration is part of the Philippines’ commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), according to Proclamation 597 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on June 13.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development, through the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), is directed to lead, coordinate and supervise the weeklong celebration.

17/07/2024

CLENRO ISSUES GUIDELINES TO PRESERVE NEWLY DISCOVERED CAVE IN BRGY. DANSOLIHON

The City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO) has issued guidelines and information on preserving a newly discovered cave in Brgy. Dansolihon. The guidelines are in line with national laws aimed at protecting natural resources, and entry into the cave is currently prohibited.

According to data released by CLENRO, there are many caves located within the city. The office emphasized the importance of following legal regulations to ensure the conservation of these natural habitats. Under Republic Act 9147, known as "An Act Providing for the Conservation and Protection of Wildlife Resources and their Habitats," caves are recognized as wildlife habitats and are protected by law.

Additionally, Republic Act 9072, or the "National Caves and Cave Resources Management and Protection Act," declares that caves and their natural resources are protected by law. According to Section 6 of RA 9072, the location of newly discovered caves must not be disclosed for one year from the time of discovery by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), until they are classified for tourism, study, or other purposes.

Section 7 outlines prohibited activities, such as extracting, acquiring, or selling items from within the cave, or hiring individuals to do so. Violators of these laws face penalties under Section 8 of RA 9072, which include imprisonment for two to six years or fines ranging from P20,000 to P500,000, or both, depending on the court's decision.

Those who instigate damage or extraction from caves face imprisonment for six years and one day to eight years, or fines ranging from P500,000 to P1,000,000, or both, based on the court's decision.

For further inquiries, visit CLENRO or the CENRO Initao office.

17/07/2024

PHILIPPINES AND US STRENGTHEN DEFENSE TIES IN HIGH-LEVEL MILITARY MEETING

On Tuesday, July 16, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. hosted a high-level meeting with United States Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Charles Q. Brown Jr. at the AFP General Headquarters. The meeting highlighted the ongoing commitment to the Philippine-United States alliance.

The AFP reported that the discussions focused on enhancing bilateral defense cooperation, strengthening joint military exercises, and addressing regional security challenges. The leaders also explored future initiatives to bolster defense relations between the two nations.

"Our alliance with the United States remains a cornerstone of our national security. Through continued collaboration and mutual support, we fortify our defense capabilities and ensure the stability of our region," General Brawner Jr. stated.

17/07/2024

DOST equips ABN Marketing with upgraded printing tech thru SETUP

MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL—The Department of Science and Technology—10 (DOST—10) has extended its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) to ABN Marketing, formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement on June 21, 2024, Ozamiz City.

The partnership aims to enhance the enterprise’s operational efficiency, expand product offerings, and boost market competitiveness.

ABN Marketing, managed by Pegielyn J. Sabunod, was founded in 2009 as an encoding hub and retailer of fashion accessories. The business has grown into a convenience store and provides photocopying, bookbinding, and tarpaulin lay-outing services. It serves many clients, including students, teachers, government employees, and bank customers.

Despite its growth, ABN Marketing envisions mechanizing production and expanding into wide-format printing services but needs more equipment in its facility. Recognizing this barrier, the enterprise sought assistance through DOST’s SETUP, a program designed to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by providing technological interventions to improve productivity and product quality.

“Our printing company views DOST SETUP as a pivotal opportunity for the long-term success of our printing business. We anticipate that the project’s support will not only enhance our operational efficiency and technological capabilities but also strengthen our market position and sustainability efforts. We are committed to maximizing the benefits of this engagement to drive long-term growth and innovation within our company,” Sabunod said.

Through the DOST program, ABN Marketing will acquire cutting-edge printing equipment, including a wide-format printer and cutter plotter. This technological upgrade will allow the enterprise to offer advanced printing services such as tarpaulin, posters, backdrops, murals, and banners. The business will also be able to produce temporary vehicle plates, signages, and other related products with greater efficiency and precision.

With these interventions, the business is expected to experience a 22% boost in productivity and 21% increase in sales after the first year of upgrades.

“DOST remains committed to supporting MSMEs in the province through SETUP. Through this program, we hope to support priority enterprises, including food processing, furniture, metals and engineering, and agriculture, among others, and contribute to the economic development in Misamis Occidental,” said DOST Misamis Occidental Provincial Director Eufresnie Ann D. Simbajon.

DOST SETUP is a nationwide strategy that provides a package of science and technology interventions, including seed funds for technology acquisition and equipment upgrading that the proponent will refund without interest.

In the famous words of DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, “Sa siyensiya at teknolohiya, negosyo tiyak kikita…” highlighting DOST’s commitment to support MSMEs with science and technology interventions.

This flagship program aims to enhance MSMEs' capabilities through technological innovation. By supporting the acquisition of modern equipment, the program helps businesses overcome operational challenges, increase productivity, and remain competitive in the market. Interested and qualified firms may visit the nearest DOST office to participate in the program. (Ella B. Nadela, DOST Misamis Occidental)

17/07/2024

CITY COUNCIL BACKS HIGALAAY FOOD PARK AT RIO DE ORO BOULEVARD

During a regular session on Monday, July 15, the 20th City Council passed a resolution supporting the 'Higalaay Food Park' at Rio de Oro Boulevard. The resolution received 12 votes in favor, three abstentions, and three objections. Resolution No. 2024-788 also urged the park organizers, the City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, and the City Fiesta Executive Committee to reconsider and proceed with the original plan for the activity scheduled from August 2 to 28, aligning with the city fiesta season, according to council majority floor leader Edgar Cabanlas.

The resolution was prompted by a joint special report from Councilors Cabanlas, Romeo Calizo, and Ian Mark Nacaya. The report addressed a controversy sparked by a social media post from a stall applicant last week, who complained about the P50,000 fee charged by the organizers, deeming it exorbitant.

During last Friday’s meeting of the committee on ways and means, chaired by Councilor George Goking, the issue was discussed extensively. Acting City Tourism Office chief Marky Jalapadan and Oro-Trade Investments Promotions Center (Oro-TIPC) chief John Asuncion explained that the P50,000 fee would cover expenses such as power supply, security, and garbage collection at the site.

Jalapadan noted that the 28-day food park would span 200 to 300 meters of the 2.5-kilometer boulevard. Asuncion added that the organizers are not excluding anyone who wishes to participate, provided they can pay the P50,000 fee to cover costs for the duration of the event.

Councilor Calizo commented that the controversy arose from a lack of information about the event, making it appear anti-poor. He also mentioned that micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are provided with other areas more accessible to the public to sell their goods.

Following the committee meeting, Goking emphasized the need for the council to be informed about any programs to effectively communicate the administration’s position to the public.

17/07/2024

Oro Broadcast Media - OBM Internet Broadcasting Services joins the nation in celebrating the NATIONAL DISABILITY RIGHTS WEEK.

PROCLAMATION No. 361

DECLARING THE THIRD WEEK OF JULY AS THE NATIONAL DISABILITY PREVENTION AND REHABILITATION WEEK WHICH SHALL CULMINATE ON THE BIRTHDATE OF THE SUBLIME PARALYTIC: APOLINARIO MABINI ON JULY 23 EACH YEAR

WHEREAS, Proclamation no 1870, which was issued on June 22, 1979, has been declared in observance of the 3rd week of July as the National Disability Prevention and rehabilitation Week;

17/07/2024

SENIOR CITIZEN FATALLY HIT BY DUMP TRUCK IN BRGY. PUERTO

A senior citizen was fatally hit by a dump truck in Barangay Puerto, Cagayan de Oro on Monday, July 15. The victim was identified as alias Felimon, 77, a resident of Purok 1, Barangay Puerto, Cagayan de Oro City.

The driver of the dump truck was identified as alias Marjun, 34, from Sangay, Buenavista, Agusan Del Norte.

According to Police Corporal Frederick Cajuelan of the COCPO Traffic Enforcement Unit, the incident occurred at 10:30 AM. The driver failed to notice the senior citizen crossing the road, resulting in the truck striking the victim's left leg.

Felimon was rushed to the Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC), but unfortunately, he did not survive the operation and passed away at 4:30 PM on the same day.

The driver, Marjun is currently detained at the Puerto Police Station's mini detention cell. Both parties are scheduled to meet for a possible settlement.

17/07/2024

ANG KAMATUORAN UG ANG BARUGANAN with Atty. Ernie F. Palanan
Courtesy: Atty. Ernie F. Palanan
(7/17/2024)

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16/07/2024

HEAVY RAINS CAUSE LANDSLIDES AND FLOODING IN BUKIDNON, LEAVING TWO DEAD AND ONE MISSING

Days of heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon have resulted in landslides and severe flooding in Bukidnon, causing the deaths of two individuals and leaving one person missing, as reported on Monday, July 15.

In Maramag, rescuers are actively searching the banks of Pulangi River for Evelyn Candido, 48, and her 12-year-old daughter, who were swept away by strong currents on July 12 while crossing a small river in Barangay Dagumbaan. The search efforts have expanded to the larger Pulangi River as hopes of finding them persist.
Another individual has been reported missing in Cabanglasan, Bukidnon, according to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD-10).

The Bukidnon Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office reported on July 13, 2024, that 2,329 families, or 8,894 individuals, from Valencia and Malaybalay cities and the towns of Kalilangan, Maramag, and San Fernando have sought refuge in evacuation centers. Although many families returned to their homes on July 14, about 450 families, or 1,607 individuals, remain in evacuation centers due to forecasts of continued rain in the coming days by the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

The disaster report also noted that over 133 farmers suffered losses amounting to P14,669,437 after 141 hectares of rice crops in Kalilangan town were destroyed by the heavy rains.

Engineering teams are working tirelessly to clear highways after multiple landslides were reported in the towns of Pagantucan, Kalilangan, Kadingilan, Kibawe, and San Fernando. The combined efforts aim to restore normalcy and ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas.

16/07/2024

"Kaya 'wag mag-alala Ipikit ang 'yong mata, ta'na"

LOOK: P-pop group SB19 made their second appearance on The First Take, a Japanese YouTube channel, delivering a heartfelt rendition of their popular ballad "Mapa."

Screen grab: THE F1RST TAKE

16/07/2024

LOOK: With a bandage on his ear, former U.S. president and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump attended the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on July 15, 2024 (U.S. time). This marked Trump’s first public appearance since the assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania.

Photo Courtesy: Reuters

16/07/2024

DA EXTENDS IMPORT BAN ON RED ONIONS AS LOCAL SUPPLY REMAINS STABLE

The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced that it would extend the current import ban on red onions as the local supply remains stable. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr. confirmed this decision, emphasizing the sufficiency of the country's onion supply until at least August.

"As of the moment, hindi talaga kailangang mag-import ng onions… For now, until August," Tiu-Laurel stated in an announcement yesterday. The existing import ban, originally set to expire by the end of July, will now be reviewed and potentially extended on a monthly basis.

“We’re monitoring everything closely, day-to-day iyan. So I guess, we would be extending (it) on a monthly basis,” he added.

Tiu-Laurel also issued a warning to traders who might exploit the situation by withholding stock to manipulate prices. "Baka mayroon diyang unscrupulous na traders o businessmen na baka mag-tighten na mag-release ng stocks,” he cautioned.

As of July 5, the DA reported that the country has a total of 152,839.25 metric tons (MT) of red onions, 10,601.42 MT of yellow onions, and 63 MT of shallots. This inventory is expected to last until February 2025.

Tiu-Laurel warned that should traders attempt to restrict the release of stocks to drive up prices, the DA would consider allowing imports to stabilize the market. "Warning lang, kapag tina-tighten nila iyan mag-i-import tayo, mag-a-allow tayo ng importation para ma-stabilize ang prices,” he added.

Currently, the price of local red onions in Metro Manila ranges from P80 to P150 per kilogram, while white onions are priced between P60 to P130 per kilogram

16/07/2024

PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD RESCUES OVER 750 INDIVIDUALS AMID ZAMBOANGA CITY FLOODS

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) played a crucial role in rescuing more than 750 individuals from various residential areas in Zamboanga City amid severe flooding on Sunday.

In a statement on Monday, PCG District Southwestern Mindanao (CGDSWM) and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Commander, Commodore Marco Antonio Gines, confirmed that PCG operations are ongoing to ensure the safety and well-being of local communities.

“Our personnel are working tirelessly to rescue those in need and provide them with the necessary support,” Gines said.

In addition to the rescue efforts, the CGDSWM is actively monitoring the status of grounded vessels and coordinating with their owners for possible towing operations. The district’s Marine Environmental Protection Group (MEPG) is also assessing the waters in the affected areas for any signs of oil spills.

The PCG has called on the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions during inclement weather. It also advised seafarers to temporarily suspend sailing during strong winds and heavy rains.

The floods, caused by heavy rains due to the southwest monsoon, impacted several neighborhoods in Zamboanga City and resulted in the grounding of 16 vessels in the region.