The Pagadian TIMES

18/12/2024

𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬: 𝐃𝐈𝐋𝐆 𝐙𝐃𝐒 𝟒𝐭𝐡 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞

The DILG ZDS 4th Quarter Provincial Conference, held last December 16, 2024, at One Cecilia Bldg., Pagadian City, marked another milestone in our commitment to public service excellence. Presided by Provincial Director Moh. Taha S. Arakama, this event presented and reviewed the accomplishments of the DILG Zamboanga del Sur CY 2024. The conference spotlighted key achievements from the Provincial Office, Cluster 1, and Cluster 2, showcasing the hard work, dedication, and collaboration that have driven meaningful progress in our communities.

Through the conference, we not only celebrated our successes but also identified areas for further growth, ensuring that we are well-equipped to continue serving the people of Zamboanga del Sur. Here's to more productive partnerships and impactful initiatives in the coming year!

18/12/2024

Tabak Division Successfully Launches Inaugural Mr. and Ms. Tabak Fitness 2024 During Annual Christmas Celebration

CAMP SANG-AN, ZDS – The 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division proudly unveiled the inaugural Mr. and Ms. Tabak Fitness 2024 during its annual Christmas celebration at the Tabak Wellness Gym, Camp Cesar L. Sang-an, Upper Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur, on December 16, 2024.

The event underscored the dedication, discipline, and commitment of 23 male and 14 female candidates representing various post and line units. After undergoing eight months of rigorous physical training to improve fitness, build strength, and foster overall wellness, participants demonstrated remarkable transformations both physically and mentally.

The competition was a display of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and physical excellence, culminating in an exciting finale where the winners were recognized for their outstanding achievements:

Mr. Tabak Fitness 2024 Winners:
• Mr. Tabak Fitness 2024: Pvt. Jac-Rome I. Pamittan (1CAV)
• 1st Runner-up: Pvt. Pablo B. Surdilla Jr. (SSBn)
• 2nd Runner-up: SSg Kim I. Balanay (11DRC)

Ms. Tabak Fitness 2024 Winners:
• Ms. Tabak Fitness 2024: PFC Jophem C. Alinday (TFZ)
• 1st Runner-up: Sgt. Abegail P. Canete (53IB)
• 2nd Runner-up: Pvt. Ethyl Ceprado (12IMB)

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the celebration included the Tabak Sportsfest awarding ceremony, thrilling raffle draws, and lively intermission performances. Officers, enlisted personnel, Civilian Human Resources, and their dependents came together to celebrate not only the competition but the division’s shared focus on health, wellness, and unity.

In his address, Maj. Gen. Gabriel C. Viray III, Division Commander, underscored the pivotal role of physical fitness in achieving military readiness and enhancing personal well-being:

“Your unwavering commitment to physical fitness not only benefits you as individuals but also fortifies the strength and resilience of our division. Let us continue to champion a culture of health and wellness within our ranks and beyond.”

Maj. Gen. Viray further highlighted that the Mr. and Ms. Tabak Fitness 2024 is just the first of a series of initiatives aimed at fostering healthier lifestyles among troops and their families. He commended the organizing committee for their tireless efforts in ensuring the event’s success and for their dedication to promoting holistic wellness within the division.

The Tabak Division’s commitment to health and fitness continues to pave the way for a stronger, more unified force, demonstrating that wellness is not just an individual goal but a shared responsibility.






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18/12/2024

18/12/2024

We are pleased to announce that 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗢𝗦𝗧-𝗦𝗘𝗜 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗘-𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲-𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗱 to allow eligible applicants to complete their submissions.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟯, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰.

During the originally set deadline of submission last December 6, the high influx of students accessing the e-application system caused technical difficulties that resulted to the inability of other applicants to complete their submission. With this, we would like to remind all students to submit their requirements promptly within the extended application period.

18/12/2024

𝐍𝐈𝐀 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝟗 𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐈𝐀 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐭

The NIA Region 9 brought together the spirit of camaraderie and teamwork as it held the Irrigators Associations (IA) Sportsfest at the NIA-9 Covered Court, Regional Center, Balintawak, Pagadian City. This event, organized by the Institutional Development Unit (IDU), welcomed participants from various IAs across the region for a two-day fun and friendly competition from December 18-19, 2024.

The Sportsfest aimed to strengthen bond among IAs, promote teamwork, and provide a break from daily farming routines while encouraging health and wellness. Participants engaged in Zumba Competition, Basketball, Volleyball, and Laro ng Lahi, showcasing their strength as a team.

NIA officials thanked the IAs for their support and emphasized the importance of activities like these in building stronger relationships and boosting morale. This event highlights NIA’s dedication not only to delivering irrigation services but also to enhancing the well-being and unity of its farmer-partners.

𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒖𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒖𝒑𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒔!👍 𝑳𝒊𝒌𝒆 & 𝑭𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 NIA Zamboanga Peninsula 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒏𝒆𝒘𝒔.

sa

18/12/2024

𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞: 𝗚𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗵𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝘄𝗻 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗻
Located in Barangay Pipindan, Binangonan, Rizal, the Ulang Hatchery established by
SEAFDEC/AQD is a symbol of community-driven sustainable aquaculture.

Its construction began in 2022 through the support of the Government of Japan Trust Fund in collaboration with the Pipindan Aquaculture Producers Association and the barangay’s local government.

Operational since its inauguration on 28 June 2023, the hatchery features 30 units of 80-liter larval rearing tanks, a 2-ton freshwater reservoir, and 3 units of 1-ton circular fabricated fiberglass tank drums for artificial seawater formulation. It is also equipped with a 14.4-watt solar charge controller as an alternate power source during nighttime and brownouts.

The hatchery was established under the Community-Based Sustainable Aquaculture Livelihood (CBSAL) project. With this initiative, SEAFDEC/AQD not only addresses food security but also provides livelihoods for fisherfolk by offering them an alternative source of income.

By catering to the growing demand for postlarvae of the prawn, the project also aims to stimulate its grow-out in lake cages and freshwater ponds.

18/12/2024

𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗔𝗪: 𝟰𝘁𝗵 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗮 𝗺𝗴𝗮 𝗣𝗘𝗦𝗢 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘂𝗴 𝗝𝗼𝗯 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲𝗿𝘀, 𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘂𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗴𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝗮 𝗹𝘂𝗻𝗴𝘀𝗼𝗱 𝘀𝗮 𝗗𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗼!

Malampusong gipahigayon bag-ohay pa lamang ang 4th Quarter Mobile Meeting sa mga PESO Managers ug Job Placement Officers sa Municipal Function, Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur.

Ang maong aktibidad personal nga gitambungan ni Municipal Mayor Junaflor "Sweet" Cerilles , DOLE Region IX Director Albert E. Gutib, DOLE ZDS FO Miraflor J. Casañes, IPMR Romeo Parila ug mga PESO Managers sa matag lungsod.

Atol sa maong kalihukan gitunol usab ang mga nagkadaiyang pasidungog sa matag top performing PESO diin lakip nga nakakuha ug pasidungog ang lungsod sa Dumalinao sa pagpangulo ni PESO Manager Reneboy O. Templado.

15/12/2024

Mother of PWD expresses heartfelt gratitude to Acedillo

Overcome with emotion, Lorna Afifi, a resident of Camella Homes in Barangay Tiguma, expressed her deep gratitude to Hon. Engr. Roger L. Acedillo, the Barangay Captain of Tiguma, for his unwavering support and generosity.

Afifi, the mother of a child with a disability (PWD) known as “Ching-Ching,” shared how Acedillo has been a consistent source of assistance for her family during their most challenging times. Her child, unable to stand or walk, often requires medication and medical care that strains the family’s financial capacity. In these moments, Afifi turns to Acedillo, who, without hesitation, provides financial aid.

“There have been times when our funds were completely depleted, especially when we needed to buy medicine for my child. Captain Acedillo never refused to help us, always offering financial support without hesitation,” Afifi shared.

She also recounted a critical moment when her child was admitted to the hospital. Facing mounting hospital bills, Afifi once again sought help from Acedillo, who immediately extended financial assistance to ease their burden. “He didn’t think twice about helping us, and because of him, we were able to settle our hospital bills,” she added.

Afifi emphasized how Acedillo’s compassion and willingness to help have profoundly impacted her family. His kindness, she said, goes beyond duty—it is a testament to his genuine concern for his constituents.

In closing, Afifi pledged her unwavering support for Acedillo in whatever political aspirations he may pursue. “Whatever his plans are in politics, he will always have my full support. Leaders like him are rare, and he deserves all the success in his endeavors.”

This heartfelt testimony underscores Engr. Acedillo’s dedication to serving not only Barangay Tiguma but also individuals and families in need, exemplifying leadership rooted in compassion and action. (Pagtimes-DSL)

13/12/2024

JUST IN: Senator María Imelda "Imee" Romualdez Marcos is expected to arrive today, December 13, 2024 for the province-wide land title distribution and turnover of farm equipment at the Mega Gym, Dao Sports Complex. Representing the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) will be a designated official standing in for DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III. (details from ZamboSur DAR)

12/12/2024

Senator Imee Marcos and DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III to lead in Zamboanga del Sur Province-wide distribution of Land Titles, CoCRom, Farm Machineries in Pagadian

A transformative chapter in Zamboanga del Sur's agrarian reform unfolds as Senator María Imelda "Imee" Romualdez Marcos and Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III lead a historic province-wide land title distribution and turnover of farm equipment tomorrow, December 13, 2024, at the Mega Gym, Dao Sports Complex.

This flagship initiative by DAR is set to empower the region's agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) with land ownership and modern agricultural tools. The distribution includes 2,467 land titles—Certificates of Regular Titles (CRTs), Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (CoCRoM), and E-Titles—under the Support Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (Project SPLIT). Spanning 2,790.9 hectares, the initiative directly benefits 2,088 ARBs and entails a financial condonation valued at an extraordinary PhP 88,081,124.95.

Adding to the impactful initiative, nine units of farm machinery and equipment (FMEs) and one processing center, worth PhP 4,008,643, will be handed over to 17 ARB organizations. These vital resources, part of the ARB Development and Sustainability Program, aim to revolutionize farming practices, bolster productivity, and ensure long-term sustainability for agrarian communities.

The event is further elevated by the presence of five DAR Under-Secretaries, Regional Director IX Atty. Ramon E. Madroñal Jr., and esteemed provincial officials, including Las Piñas Lone District Congresswoman Camille Lydia A. Villar, Zamboanga del Sur Governor Victor J. Yu, 1st District Congresswoman Divina Grace C. Yu, and 2nd District Congresswoman Jeyzel Victoria C. Yu. Together, these leaders reaffirm their unwavering commitment to advancing rural development and empowering Filipino farmers.

“This initiative is a game-changer for our ARBs,” a DAR official emphasized. “We are not merely providing land titles—we are equipping our farmers with the resources and tools they need to thrive in a competitive agricultural landscape. This reflects the government’s steadfast resolve to build a future where farmers can stand on their own and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s food security.” A local official echoed this sentiment, adding, “The combination of land security and access to modern technology is the cornerstone of agricultural prosperity. This is our vision for a resilient and thriving farming sector.”

The event is expected to draw hundreds of beneficiaries and stakeholders, symbolizing a significant step forward in the region’s agrarian reform efforts. As part of DAR’s broader mission, this initiative underscores the agency’s dedication to equitable land distribution, sustainable agriculture, and inclusive rural development. (PagTimes-DSL)

10/12/2024

Congresswoman Yu urges Anti-Terrorism Council
to act swiftly on Tukuran Bombing incident

In a privilege speech delivered in Congress on Monday, December 9, 2024, 2nd District Congresswoman Divina Grace Yu laid bare chilling details surrounding the September 17 bombing in Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur. The attack, which claimed two lives, revealed a web of alleged political conspiracy and premeditated violence.

"Mr. Speaker," Yu began, "I rise on a matter of personal and collective privilege regarding the bombing incident in the Municipality of Tukuran. This senseless act of violence is a stark reminder of the threat we face and the need for unwavering vigilance."

The congresswoman detailed findings from the ongoing investigation:

Fatal Suspects: Post-blast analysis indicated that the two fatalities were directly involved, likely as carriers of the explosive device.
Political Links: One of the deceased was identified as an active municipal coordinator under a Local Chief Executive in Labangan.
Alleged Planners: Two Local Chief Executives were implicated—one for allegedly providing material support and the other for reportedly facilitating the transport of the bomb.
Intended Target: The explosive device was intended for the Provincial Government Complex, where thousands, including Yu, Governor Victor Yu, and their families, gathered for the province's anniversary celebration.
Potential Catastrophe: Experts estimated the bomb could have caused fatalities or injuries to over 1,000 people within a 100-meter radius, with devastating damage to government infrastructure.
"Days after the incident, I received a call from one of the implicated Local Chief Executives," Yu revealed. "He detailed the plan and named the other as the prime mover of this heinous act. I have since executed an affidavit and submitted it to the authorities."

The congresswoman painted a harrowing picture of the perpetrators' intentions: spreading fear, destabilizing the province’s political structure, and endangering innocent lives.

"This plot," she declared, "is not just an act of violence but a betrayal of public trust. It underscores the urgent need to root out corruption and hold accountable those who weaponize power for personal gain."

Yu called on the Anti-Terrorism Council to take decisive action, urging them to designate the implicated officials and suspects as terrorists to facilitate a more thorough investigation.

"We cannot ignore this incident," she emphasized. "If left unchecked, it will undoubtedly happen again, with even greater precision and more devastating consequences."

Her plea resonated with a call for unity and vigilance, as she reminded her fellow lawmakers of their duty to protect their constituents.

"As leaders, our foremost priority is the safety and welfare of our people. This act of terror threatens not just lives but the very fabric of our community. We must act swiftly and decisively to ensure that justice is served and peace is restored."

The Congresswoman's privilege speech was then referred to the Committee on Rules for appropriate action.

The Tukuran bombing has shaken Zamboanga del Sur and cast a spotlight on the pressing need for justice and accountability, as local and national authorities intensify efforts to uncover the full extent of this chilling conspiracy.(PagTimes-DSL)

10/12/2024

ZamboSur PIO questions Tambulig Mayor’s
defense in Tukuran bombing allegations

Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Information Officer Jesrel Himang took to social media to express his frustration following an interview with suspended Tambulig Mayor Charlotte Panal, where she dismissed allegations linking her to the September 17 Tukuran bombing as political harassment.

Himang’s post, which quickly garnered attention online, questioned the implications of Panal’s defense and called out supporters who downplayed the seriousness of the case.

“Ang mga supporters sa pikas ga katawa ra sa explosion case, kay kuno political harassment ra,” Himang wrote. “What if kato na bomba ning buto jud sa daghang tawo, unya isa sa inyong pamilya na igo ato? Kaya pa kaha tunlon ninyo na inyong gisuportahan na politiko?”

Himang highlighted the devastating potential of the bomb, which exploded outside the LGU Beach in Tukuran. Despite detonating 100 meters away from the function hall, the blast was strong enough to shatter its windows.

He also pointed out that the two fatalities—Alfredo “Butch” Dumanjog, a first cousin of Mayor Panal, and an individual known as “Abdul,” a coordinator for Labangan Mayor Eddie Relacion—were directly linked to the incident.

“Ang namatay nga naunay sa maong bomba, 1st cousin ni Mayor Charlotte Dumanjog-Panal ug ang coordinator ni Mayor Relacion nga si Alyas Abdul,” Himang noted, questioning why these individuals were involved if the incident was merely a “scenario” or political ploy.

Himang further criticized Panal for evading crucial questions during her press conference, particularly concerning the involvement of her service vehicle, allegedly used to transport the bomb, and the direct connection of her cousin and political ally to the incident.

“Pero kung scenario pa, nganong inyong sakyanan ang involved? Nganong naunay imong ig-agaw ug tagsa?” he asked, adding, “Kini unta ang gitubag kay ni liko man ganina sa topic sa presscon nya.”

The sentiment reflects growing frustration among local officials and citizens, as the Tukuran bombing case continues to unfold amidst heightened political tensions in the province. The case has sparked intense debate, with allegations of terrorism being met with counterclaims of political harassment.

As both sides stand their ground, the case remains under investigation, with pressure mounting on authorities to provide clarity and justice in the face of such a polarizing incident. (Pagtimes-DSL)

10/12/2024

Tambulig Mayor Panal denies allegations, plans
legal action against Governor and Congresswoman Yu

Suspended Tambulig Mayor Charlotte Panal has dismissed the allegations linking her to the September 17 Tukuran bombing as politically motivated harassment, vowing to file legal charges against Governor Victor J. Yu and 2nd District Congresswoman Divina Grace Yu.

In a live interview on Sunday, December 8, 2024, which quickly went viral on social media, Panal questioned the motives of the Yu couple and criticized their public statements implicating her in the bombing.

"There is still no case, but the couple has already named us," Panal stated. "This will come out as a trial by publicity."

Panal expressed concerns over the impartiality of the investigation, calling on the Philippine National Police (PNP), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to ensure that due process is upheld.

"Will there still be due process?" she asked. "Accusing us as terrorists without evidence undermines the integrity of the investigation."

The mayor revealed that she has consulted with her legal team and is prepared to defend herself in court should a case be filed. However, she claimed that the accusations might be part of a broader strategy to eliminate her and Labangan Mayor Eddie Relacion, alleging that a hitman has been hired to target politicians in Zamboanga del Sur for a P15-million contract.

"This could be a diversionary tactic," Panal suggested. "If we are labeled as terrorists, people will more readily accept our deaths."

Panal also tied the allegations to political rivalries, pointing out that she is set to face Congresswoman Yu’s brother, who is also Governor Yu’s brother-in-law, in the upcoming May 2025 elections for the mayoral seat of Tambulig. Meanwhile, Mayor Relacion, who is also implicated in the case, is poised to challenge the couple's son for the congressional seat in the 1st District of Zamboanga del Sur.

"They suspended me, and now they’re fabricating this story of me being a terrorist," she asserted. "This is clearly politically motivated."

The mayor further accused the Yu couple of being desperate to weaken their political opponents, adding that she is preparing to file legal action against them to counter the accusations.

"We are willing to face them in court if a case is filed," Panal declared. "But for now, we will not let these baseless allegations go unchallenged."

The controversy surrounding the Tukuran bombing continues to intensify, with both sides leveling serious accusations against each other. The investigation has yet to result in formal charges, but the incident has already highlighted the deep political divisions in Zamboanga del Sur. (Pagtimes-JP)

09/12/2024

BREAKING NEWS: Kanlaon Volcano Erupts, Alert Level 3 Raised

Kanlaon Volcano erupted explosively at 3:03 PM today, December 9, 2024, sending a massive ash plume towering 3,000 meters above the summit. According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the ash column rapidly drifted west-southwest, while pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) were observed cascading down the southeastern slopes of the volcano.

The sudden escalation in activity has prompted PHIVOLCS to raise the Alert Level to 3, indicating a "relatively high unrest" and a heightened likelihood of hazardous eruptions

Local authorities are urging residents within the 4-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) to evacuate immediately. The Municipality of Isabela, situated near Kanlaon, has announced the suspension of classes at all levels until further notice as a precautionary measure.

“The safety of our residents is our utmost priority. We are coordinating with disaster response teams and advising everyone to remain vigilant,” stated local officials.

Residents are warned of the following potential hazards:
• Falling ash that may pose health risks and damage to crops and infrastructure.
• PDCs that can destroy anything in their path due to extreme heat and velocity.
• Possible lahars during heavy rainfall due to the accumulation of volcanic debris.

The public is advised to:
• Wear masks and protective eyewear to minimize exposure to ash.
• Avoid non-essential outdoor activities and driving in ash-covered areas.
• Stay tuned to official updates from PHIVOLCS and local disaster management offices.
•
PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring Kanlaon’s activity through thermal imaging and seismic instruments. Authorities urge the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that may cause panic.

Kanlaon Volcano, one of the most active in the Philippines, last erupted in 2022, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance. (Pagtimes-JP) video from Philvolcs

09/12/2024

Engr. Roger Acedillo’s generosity fuels
women’s basketball team’s success

Known for his unwavering generosity and commitment to community service, Hon. Engr. Roger L. Acedillo, Barangay Captain of Tiguma and aspirant for City Councilor, has once again proven his dedication to uplifting others. His latest act of kindness has brought new energy and enthusiasm to the women’s basketball team of the SMC High School Department.

Grazielle Alvarez, a part-time teacher, basketball coach, and Barangay Secretary of Dao, shared her gratitude for Acedillo’s immediate and heartfelt response to her request for help. During one of his visits to Barangay Dao, Alvarez sought financial assistance to provide much-needed equipment for her players. To her amazement, Acedillo instantly agreed to help, reflecting his natural inclination to give back to the community.

With Acedillo’s support, the team acquired new socks, water tumblers, face towels, and cycling shorts - items that have already made a significant impact on the players’ performance and morale. Alvarez expressed how the new gear not only improved the team’s readiness for games but also inspired the players to work harder and believe in themselves.

“I was overwhelmed by his generosity,” Alvarez said. “Captain Acedillo didn’t just give financial aid, he gave these players a reason to strive harder, showing them that someone believes in their potential.”

This is not the first time Acedillo’s generosity has touched lives beyond his immediate jurisdiction. His consistent acts of kindness, whether addressing individual needs or supporting community initiatives, have made him a beloved figure in Pagadian City.

Alvarez concluded with a hopeful wish for Acedillo’s continued success: “May he be blessed even more, so he can continue serving and inspiring others.”

As Acedillo seeks a seat in the City Council, his selflessness and commitment to service remain evident. His actions resonate as a shining example of leadership that prioritizes the well-being and empowerment of the people, particularly the youth, who represent the future of the city.(Pagtimes-AOL)

08/12/2024

Pagadian achieves 1st Class City Status
under the leadership of Mayor Co

Pagadian City has reached a historic milestone, officially recognized as a 1st Class City in the Philippines by the Department of Finance. This achievement comes shortly after being ranked as the 40th Wealthiest City in the country by the COA Annual Financial Report, solidifying its status as a rising economic force in the region.

This momentous recognition is attributed to the visionary leadership of Mayor Samuel S. Co, whose dedication to progress and inclusive development has brought transformative changes to the city. Under his administration, Pagadian has seen significant strides in economic growth, infrastructure development, and improved services for its citizens.

“This milestone reflects the hard work, unity, and determination of every Pagadianon, guided by the leadership of Mayor Samuel S. Co. Together, we have proven that progress is achievable through collective effort,” a local official remarked.

Mayor Co’s administration has prioritized key programs to stimulate growth, attract investments, and uplift the quality of life for the people of Pagadian. His forward-thinking policies and commitment to collaboration with various sectors have paved the way for this remarkable achievement.

The reclassification as a 1st Class City not only recognizes Pagadian’s economic success but also opens new opportunities for further development, including increased funding for infrastructure projects, better public services, and greater support for businesses.

Mayor Co extended his gratitude to the people of Pagadian, emphasizing that this accomplishment is a shared victory. “This success is a reflection of the unity and hard work of every Pagadianon. Let us continue working together to achieve even greater heights for our beloved city,” he said.

As Pagadian celebrates this historic milestone, the city stands as a beacon of what strong leadership and community collaboration can achieve. Under the stewardship of Mayor Co, true to his tagline “ASENSO PAGADIAN”, the future of Pagadian City shines brighter than ever (PagTimes-JP)

(Image from Mayor Sammy Co page)

07/12/2024

Tensions rise as key figures named in
Tukuran bomb explosion investigation

A shocking twist has emerged in the aftermath of the September 17 bomb explosion in Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur, as Governor Victor J. Yu and 1st District Representative Divina Grace Yu revealed the names of high-profile individuals allegedly tied to the incident during a tense press conference on Saturday, December 7.

Details from an ongoing police investigation point to two suspects: “Abdul,” reportedly a former close associate of Labangan Mayor Eddie Relacion, and Butch Dumanjug, a cousin of suspended Tambulig Mayor Charlotte Panal. But the revelations didn’t end there - allegations now reach into the upper echelons of local politics, with claims of a deeper conspiracy.

In a startling disclosure, Rep. Divina Yu recounted a phone call she received just days after the bomb explosion. On the line was Mayor Relacion, who alleged that the attack was orchestrated as part of a sinister plan targeting her and Governor Yu. What’s more, Relacion accused Mayor Panal of masterminding the operation.

Adding to the intrigue, CCTV footage reportedly captured a Toyota Fortuner linked to the suspects. Authorities have traced the vehicle back to Elsa Navarro, a known confidante of Mayor Panal. These connections have prompted investigators to dig deeper into the relationships and motives of those involved.

“The bomb has a purpose,” Governor Yu declared, visibly unsettled by the findings. “The details are beginning to align, and they paint a deeply troubling picture.”

The governor and congresswoman have escalated the matter to the National Anti-Terrorism Council, urging the body to designate the implicated individuals—including Mayors Panal and Relacion—as terrorists. Such a move would allow the council to take independent action in uncovering the full scope of the plot.

National police leadership has also stepped in, instructing the Police Regional Office 9 (PRO9) to prioritize the case. Meanwhile, the Provincial Peace and Order Council is preparing evidence to build a strong case against the suspects and those named in connection to the explosion.

As the investigation unfolds, the province is gripped by a growing sense of unease. The Tukuran explosion, initially dismissed as an isolated incident, now appears to be the tip of a much larger and more sinister plot—one that threatens to expose hidden political rivalries and dangerous power plays.

“This is not an ordinary case,” Rep. Yu warned. “This is about unraveling a web of connections that could have far-reaching implications for the peace and security of our province.”

With accusations flying and evidence mounting, all eyes are on Zamboanga del Sur as the case inches closer to uncovering the truth behind the chilling attack. (PagTimes – DSL)