The Philippine Navy, through the Northern Luzon Naval Command, intercepts approximately 1.5 tons or 1,500,000 grams of shabu worth an estimated ₱10 billion off the coast of Zambales on June 20, 2025. The operation, conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, is among the largest drug seizures in Philippine Navy history. (Philippine Navy)
By Reia G. Pabelonia
The Philippine Navy, through the Northern Luzon Naval Command, intercepts approximately 1.5 tons or 1,500,000 grams of shabu worth an estimated ₱10 billion off the coast of Zambales on June 20, 2025. The operation, conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, is among the largest drug seizures in Philippine Navy history. (Philippine Navy)
IBA, Zambales (PIA) — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Central Luzon reported intensified operations and advocacy efforts in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for a bloodless anti-drug campaign, as emphasized in his 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA).
In his SONA, the President disclosed that nearly ₱83 billion worth of illegal drugs were confiscated nationwide from July 2022 to June 2025.
“Kamakailan lamang, may mga malalaking kargamento na nagkakahalaga ng bilyon-bilyon na nasabat natin sa Zambales, sa Pangasinan, sa Cagayan, Tondo, Muntinlupa, Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, Cebu, Batangas, Rizal, at sa Cavite,” Marcos said.
Among the operations was a joint effort between the Philippine Navy and PDEA on June 20, 2025 which intercepted 1.5 tons of shabu valued at ₱10 billion off the coast of Zambales.
The President also reported that more than 153,000 individuals have been arrested in anti-drug operations during the three-year period, including 9,689 high-value targets and 677 government personnel.
Despite these results, Marcos warned that drug dealers are attempting to return.
“Sa kabila ng mga ito, tila nagbabalikan daw ang mga pusher. Kaya, patuloy ang ating mga operasyon laban sa mga drug dealer, sila man ay big-time o small-time,” he said.
In Central Luzon, PDEA Region III Public Information Officer Glenn Guillermo reported that ₱13.39 billion worth of illegal drugs were seized from January to June 2025.
These included 1,958 kilograms of shabu, 9.62 kilograms of marijuana, 26.24 kilograms of dried marijuana leaves, and 7,495 ecstasy tablets.
“Maayos po ang aming anti-drug campaign. Two days ago, here in San Fernando, Pampanga, 700 grams of shabu were confiscated during a buy-bust operation,” he said.
Alongside law enforcement, the agency is expanding its preventive and educational efforts.
“As of June 30, we have conducted 103 advocacy campaigns—the highest since the regional office was established. We are working with schools, workplaces, barangays, and civil society groups such as the Rotary Club of Dolores to promote awareness,” he furthered.
PDEA Region III emphasized that its efforts are focused not only on operations but also on strengthening advocacy campaigns and rehabilitation support at the community level.
(CLJD/RGP, PIA Region 3–Zambales)
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The Department of Information and Communications Technology accelerates the installation of a seamless and fast internet connection up to the remote areas of Bulacan including Kalawakan Elementary School in Doña Remedios Trinidad town. (Shane F. Velasco/PIA 3)
By Shane F. Velasco
The Department of Information and Communications Technology accelerates the installation of a seamless and fast internet connection up to the remote areas of Bulacan including Kalawakan Elementary School in Doña Remedios Trinidad town. (Shane F. Velasco/PIA 3)
MALOLOS CITY (PIA) — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has put Bulacan at the forefront of various digitalization initiatives.
This is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s push for digital connectivity, as he emphasized in his 4thState of the Nation Address (SONA).
“Napakahalaga ng internet sa ating pagtahak patungo sa Bagong Pilipinas. Kaya nitong padaliin at baguhin ang pamumuhay ng ating mga mamamayan. Hindi lang ito para sa may kaya, o para lamang sa mga bata. Ito ay kailangan na ng lahat,” he stated.
The DICT has installed free WiFi connectivity in more than 19,000 sites at present from about 4,000 sites in June 2022.
Included in the figure are 543 WiFi sites installed in the province from 2023 up to the present.
DICT Provincial Director Mario Antonio Yong Aya-ay disclosed that apart from installation, the agency also upgraded the internet speed to 100 Mbps from the initial 2 Mbps to better support the increasing connectivity needs of users in Bulacan.
“The launching of eGovPH and the eLGU likewise made the province connected to all government services in just one app,” he added.
eLGU allows citizens to have access to an online one-stop shop LGU system automation such as getting business permit licensing, barangay clearance, building permit, working permit, community tax certificate, local civil registry, occupational permit, health certificates and even LGU online news.
Governor Daniel Fernando cited the DICT programs that made Bulacan a model in government digital transformation.
As a result, 99 percent or 23 out of 24 of local government units in the province have already digitalized their bureaucratic system.
Digitalization efforts also boosted in the aspect of consumer protection when the DICT formally joined the launch of the Market Next project of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
Under this initiative, public markets in the 20 towns and four cities across Bulacan will soon be connected to faster and more reliable internet connectivity.
The Market Next project will complement existing projects such as the DTI’s Market Modernization program and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ Paleng-QR Ph.
Meanwhile, the education sector continues to benefit from accelerating digital connectivity as DICT piloted the rollout of the Bayanihan SIM Project at the Kalawakan Elementary School in Doña Remedios Trinidad town.
An initial 500 Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards were distributed for free to the students and teachers.
Each SIM card has 25 gigabytes per month or preferably 25 hours of wide use.
This is part of the effort to make internet access more inclusive and reduce the digital divide among the people living in the far-flung areas of Bulacan.
To ensure a strong internet connection in implementing the said projects, the DICT has accelerated the construction of the common towers under the Shared Passive Telecommunications Tower Infrastructure started in 2020.
This common tower gives a boost to the internet connectivity like in the public schools such as Tibagan Elementary School in San Miguel town and the Kalawakan Elementary School in Doña Remedios Trinidad.
These are part of the 228 tower sites constructed, while 132 more are in the pipeline.
On combating digital scams, Bulacan once again became a launching pad for the initial roll-out of the SIM Card Registration policy of the National Telecommunications Commission.
An initial 2.96 million Bulacan residents registered their existing SIM Cards in April 2023.
Since then, all newly purchased SIM Cards are required to register before entering their commercial use.
This is in line with the implementation of the SIM Card Registration Act, the first legislative piece signed by President Marcos also known as Republic Act 11934. (CLJD/SFV, PIA Region 3-Bulacan)
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The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has released a over P1.5 billion in emergency loans, providing immediate financial relief to government workers and pensioners affected by Tropical Storm Crising, Dante, Emong, and other calamities across the country.
This benefitted more than 44,000 emergency loan applications from active members and pensioners.
“As soon as the loan window opened, thousands of our members and pensioners turned to GSIS for help. This reflects how deeply the recent calamities have affected their lives and how urgently they need support.” said GSIS Officer-in-Charge Juliet M. Bautista.
The program offers a one-time loan of up to P40,000 for active members and P20,000 for pensioners. It carries a 6 percent interest rate per annum, computed in advance, and is payable in 36 equal monthly installments. The loan is also covered by Loan Redemption Insurance, meaning that in the event of the borrower’s untimely death, the loan will be considered fully paid provided repayments are up to date.
“We want our members to know they are not alone in recovering from the impact of recent storms. GSIS is here to extend support where it matters most,” added Bautista.
The Emergency Loan is available to GSIS members whose residence or place of work is in a declared calamity area. Pensioners who live in these areas may also avail of the loan. Loan availment periods vary depending on the date of the declaration and the submission of documentary requirements by the concerned local government units.
As of this writing, the loan is open until August 15 in the province of Siquijor; until August 23 in Calumpit, Bulacan and Umingan, Pangasinan; from July 24 to October 23 in Cavite, Manila, and Quezon City; from July 25 to October 24 in Malabon, Marikina, Las Piñas, Navotas, Valenzuela, Roxas in Palawan, Agoncillo in Batangas, Balagtas in Bulacan, Malasiqui in Pangasinan, Bataan, Pampanga, and Dagupan City; from July 26 to August 25 in Mangaldan and Mangatarem in Pangasinan; from July 26 to October 24 in the province of Rizal; from July 26 to October 25 in Caloocan; from July 27 to October 26 in Muntinlupa; from July 29 to August 28 in the municipalities of Moncada and Paniqui in Tarlac, Anda and Lingayen in Pangasinan, Provinces of La Union and Laguna, and City of San Carlos, Pangasinan.
The list of covered areas is continuously updated as more localities are declared calamity areas. For the latest list of eligible areas, members and pensioners are advised to visit the GSIS website (www.gsis.gov.ph) or check its official social media platforms.
For more information, members may also call the GSIS Contact Center or email gsiscares@gsis.gov.ph.
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Kalabasa chips making was one of the activities held during the Kaunlaran Caravan in Leyte on July 16, 2025.
Josephine Ramos, Junior Writer
Kalabasa chips making was one of the activities held during the Kaunlaran Caravan in Leyte on July 16, 2025.
Hosted by CARD RBI on its fourth run this year, CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions’ (CARD MRI) Kaunlaran Caravan was held in Palompon, Leyte on July 16, 2025.
The Kaunlaran Caravan is an initiative of CARD MRI, aimed at bringing community development programs to different provinces across the Philippines.
“Through this initiative, we aim to assist better Filipinos, especially economically challenged individuals and their families. We hope that through offering free community development programs and other essential services, we can contribute to CARD MRI’s mission of poverty eradication,” said CARD MRI Rizal Bank President Ms. Lyneth Derequito.
Event Highlights
One of the highlights during the program was the mass wedding where six couples officially legalized their union. This effort by CARD MBA aimed to help its members officially recognize their partners as legal dependents.
CARD MRI Publishing House facilitated a storytelling session featuring the storybook Ang Magic Alkansiya ni Carding, attended by 35 children. The activity aimed to promote financial literacy and teach the value of saving.
A livelihood training on Kalabasa Chips making was attended by 35 participants, aiming to empower the community by teaching them valuable skills to generate additional income and improve their livelihoods.
Furthermore, a total of 365 attendees benefited from free medical, dental, and optical check-ups, while 75 received massages, 60 had haircuts, and 55 were treated to manicures and pedicures, all for free. To combat hunger, the event also included a feeding program, serving champorado to over 100 people.
Kaunlaran Caravan is a CARD MRI initiative that brings various community development services to different areas, with the goal of uplifting and empowering local communities. The fifth leg of the caravan is set to take place in Polomolok, South Cotabato, on August 20, 2025.
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Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda appeals for the desilting of the Pampanga River as a sustainable solution to the persistent and worsening flooding in the province. (Pampanga PIO)
By Marie Joy S. Carbungco
Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda appeals for the desilting of the Pampanga River as a sustainable solution to the persistent and worsening flooding in the province. (Pampanga PIO)
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) – Governor Lilia Pineda reiterated her long-standing recommendation to desilt the Pampanga River as a sustainable solution to the persistent and worsening flooding in the province.
This call came after recent heavy rains caused widespread flooding and damaged at least P432 million worth of infrastructure, based on the latest assessment of the Provincial Government and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Pineda said the desilting must cover the 34-kilometer stretch of the Pampanga River, spanning the towns of Arayat, Candaba, Macabebe, Masantol, Lubao, and Sasmuan.
She pointed out that the increasing shallowness of the riverbed and the accumulation of debris and waste have significantly reduced the river’s capacity to hold and drain water, contributing to extensive flooding.
The provincial government’s latest damage report indicated that in Lubao, Sta. Rita suffered P50 million in damage following the collapse of a dike and pavement. In Floridablanca P70 million was incurred in damages due to the P30 million reported damage in Barangay Sto. Rosario due to the collapse of existing slope protection along the Caulaman River; P30 million in losses due to a collapsed dike along the Santol Creek in San Jose; and P10 million in damage from settlement of slope protection in Barangay Dampe.
In Guagua, slope protection along the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) irrigation canal in Ligaya–Talang area collapsed, leading to P30 million worth of damage; while Lambac sustained P20 million in damage from settlement of slope protection.
In Mabalacat City, the damaged slope protection at Sapang Balen amounted to P10 million; while a partially damaged road in San Vicente, Apalit and Paralaya, Candaba cost P30 million and P40 million, respectively.
Partially damaged flood control were also reported in San Simon amounting to P132 million, and in Macabebe amounting to P25 million.
Other damages include damaged riprap in Sasmuan worth P20 million, and scouring of road shoulder in Minalin worth P5 million.
Meanwhile, the cost of the damaged bridge in Mexico is still under evaluation by DPWH engineers.
DPWH has earlier stated that more than P1 billion will be needed to address flood control infrastructure issues across the province. These include repairs to broken dikes, enhancement of slope protection structures, and large-scale river desilting efforts.
Pineda underscored that the main cause of the flooding was the silted and clogged rivers, alongside broken canals that could no longer handle the volume of rainfall.
She also cited reports of dike breaches in parts of Guagua, Lubao, and Floridablanca, which worsened the impact on affected barangays.
Given the extent of the damage and recurring nature of the problem, the governor renewed her appeal to the national government and relevant agencies to prioritize the desilting of the Pampanga River and fund long-term flood mitigation projects.
She stressed that these are not merely engineering concerns but essential actions to safeguard communities, livelihoods, and public infrastructure.
“We are doing our part at the provincial level, but solving this problem requires inter-agency coordination and a serious investment from the national government. Desilting the river is critical not just for disaster response but also for protecting agriculture and livelihoods,” Pineda said.
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council continues to monitor the situation and provide assistance to affected residents while preparing for additional weather disturbances in the coming days. (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)
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As highlighted in President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s 4th State of the Nation Address, the 32.15-kilometer, four-lane Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge, which connects Barangay Alas-asin in Mariveles, Bataan to Barangay Timalan in Naic, Cavite and is expected to cut travel time between the two provinces from five hours to just 30 to 45 minutes, is set to begin construction before the year ends. (DPWH)
By Rick P. Quiambao
As highlighted in President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s 4th State of the Nation Address, the 32.15-kilometer, four-lane Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge, which connects Barangay Alas-asin in Mariveles, Bataan to Barangay Timalan in Naic, Cavite and is expected to cut travel time between the two provinces from five hours to just 30 to 45 minutes, is set to begin construction before the year ends. (DPWH)
BALANGA CITY (PIA) — Key officials in Bataan expressed strong support and optimism following the renewed commitment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to the construction of the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge (BCIB), which he highlighted in his 4th State of the Nation Address.
In his address, the President underscored the administration’s continued pursuit of infrastructure projects that promote regional connectivity and development.
“Bago matapos ang taon, magsisimula na ang Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge. Ang tulay na ito ay tatlumpu’t dalawang kilometro ang haba, na tumatawid ng Manila Bay. Kung ang biyahe ngayon mula Mariveles hanggang Naic ay umaabot ng limang oras, balang araw ito ay magiging apatnapu’t limang minuto na lamang(Before the end of the year, the construction of the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge will begin. This bridge is 32 kilometers long and will span Manila Bay. If the travel time from Mariveles to Naic currently takes five hours, one day it will take only 45 minutes),” President Marcos said.
Bataan 2nd District Representative Albert Garcia welcomed the President’s reaffirmation of support, calling it a big win for the province.
He said the project, once a bold dream, is now becoming a reality that will unlock opportunities in trade, tourism, and development.
“I thank the President for pushing this forward, and I remain committed to ensuring that every milestone benefits our people,” he added.
Meanwhile, Governor Jose Enrique Garcia III also expressed gratitude to the President for his strong support for the BCIB, describing it as a significant milestone that brings Bataan closer to its vision of becoming a key hub of opportunity, connectivity, and progress for every Bataeño family.
“The start of construction before the year ends is a promise of better days ahead. Isang makasaysayang hakbang ito tungo sa mas matatag na pamilyang Bataeño,” he said.
The BCIB is among the national government’s flagship infrastructure projects under the “Build Better More” program.
It is a 32.15-kilometer, four-lane bridge project that will connect Barangay Alas-asin in Mariveles, Bataan to Barangay Timalan in Naic, Cavite—cutting travel time between the two provinces from five hours to just 30 to 45 minutes.
Once completed, the bridge is expected to boost trade, logistics, tourism, and investment between Central Luzon and CALABARZON.
In Bataan, stakeholders view the project as a key catalyst for expanding economic activity in the Freeport Area of Bataan and nearby municipalities, with over 20,000 jobs projected during construction and post-construction phases.
The BCIB stands as a testament to the national government’s commitment to building transformative infrastructure that fosters inclusive growth and regional development across the country. (CLJD/RPQ, PIA Region 3-Bataan)
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About 2,867 minimum wage earners in Subic Bay Freeport Zone avail of P20 per kilo rice under the “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program. (DOLE Zambales)
By Reia G. Pabelonia
About 2,867 minimum wage earners in Subic Bay Freeport Zone avail of P20 per kilo rice under the “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program. (DOLE Zambales)
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT ZONE (PIA) — About 2,867 minimum wage earners in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone avail rice at P20 per kilo through the “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” program.
The initiative forms part of the government’s continuing efforts to make food more accessible and affordable for low-income workers and to ease the impact of inflation on essential goods.
Beneficiaries included employees of Sanyo Denki Philippines Inc. and its associated manpower service providers.
The distribution was conducted at the company’s premises in Subic Techno Park, Boton Area, where each worker was able to purchase rice at the subsidized rate.
The activity was spearheaded by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in partnership with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.
DOLE Zambales Senior Labor and Employment Officer Arvin Fabian emphasized the importance of supporting wage earners through direct interventions.
“Ikinatutuwa namin ang pagsama sa mga minimum wage earners, lalo na dito sa probinsya ng Zambales, kasama ang Subic Bay Freeport Zone, kung saan ay libo-libong empleyado ang maaring makinabang,” he said.
In his 4th State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted the program’s successful rollout and affirmed that rice can be sold at P20 per kilo without compromising the livelihood of Filipino farmers.
He said the program has already been implemented in various locations across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
Marcos also announced that the government has allocated P113 billion to enhance agricultural programs and expand the distribution of P20 rice nationwide through KADIWA centers in partnership with local governments.
The rice distribution in Subic not only provided access to affordable food but also reflected the administration’s continued commitment to worker welfare through targeted and sustainable support programs. (CLJD/RGP, PIA Region 3-Zambales)
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Planning to refresh your space or add a personal touch to your everyday essentials? At SM Supermalls, curating a lifestyle that reflects both comfort and style is easier than ever. Whether you’re creating a cozy reading nook, sprucing up your home with stylish décor, or simply upgrading your self-care stash, these stores at SM City Marilao offer thoughtfully designed, aesthetic picks to match your vibe. Here are the top lifestyle destinations you won’t want to miss.
Design a mindful escape with curated books and statement pieces from Fully Booked
Transform your space into a sanctuary of imagination and inspiration with curated finds from Fully Booked, located on the Ground Level. More than just a bookstore, Fully Booked is a haven for readers, thinkers, and collectors alike, offering an expansive selection of titles and lifestyle pieces. Their self-help collection stands out with empowering reads that span from bestselling authors to rising literary voices, each thoughtfully chosen to guide you toward purposeful living, better habits, and a more intentional mindset.
Complementing this is Fully Booked’s curated collection of Magnetic Bookmarks – a range of sleek, functional bookmarks designed for modern readers who appreciate both style and substance. Each piece clips firmly onto your page without leaving a mark, ensuring you never lose your place while adding a polished touch to your reading routine.
2. Add a pop of fun and functionality to your room with lifestyle picks from Miniso
Known for its aesthetic and co-branded collections, lifestyle retailer Miniso, located on the mall’s second level, offers a wide array of everyday finds, from scented candles and storage boxes to tech accessories and wellness items. Their range of neck pillows offers plush, ergonomic support, perfect for travel or rest on the go. Crafted from soft, breathable fabric and a snug fit, they help reduce neck strain and add a snuggish feeling to any journey.
Pair it with their Aromatherapy Diffusers, which gently release soothing scents to refresh your space and uplift your mood. With sleek, minimalist designs and calming essential oils, they’re the perfect addition to any room or relaxation routine. These budget-friendly picks are ideal for updating your space without breaking the bank.
3. Organize your essentials with smart storage solutions from The SM Store
Whether it’s chic homeware, comfy linens, elegant dining sets, or self-care essentials, The SM Store, located on the second level, has everything you need under one roof. Their Home and Lifestyle section is filled with versatile pieces that suit any theme, making it easy to personalize your surroundings while staying practical. Their Smart Storage Solutions are perfect for maximizing space without compromising on style. Whether for your closet, kitchen, or work desk, these pieces help keep everything in its place — neat, tidy, and effortlessly chic.
Complete the look with their range of Vanity Trays, designed to showcase your beauty essentials, perfumes, or jewelry in sleek, minimalist fashion. Available in a variety of modern finishes, they add a polished touch to any dresser or bathroom counter.
4. Accessorize your space with homely and aesthetic pieces from Our Home
Infuse your living space with elegance and personality through Our Home’s best-selling Aromatherapy Diffusers by Francis Libiran, located on the second level of the mall. Crafted in collaboration with the renowned designer, these Reed Diffusers blend luxurious scents with sophisticated packaging, making them a decor statement and ambiance enhancer in one.
Complementing the atmosphere is the store’s curated Statement Wall Art collection, featuring eye-catching pieces designed to add character, depth, and a modern edge to any room. From abstract prints to inspiring visuals, each piece is selected to reflect your unique style while bringing life to your walls.
At SM City Marilao, elevating your lifestyle starts with simple yet stylish choices. With a curated mix of functional finds and aesthetic must-haves, these stores offer more than just products – they inject personality into your space. Discover more fashionable picks, chic hauls, and more for you at SM, where a #NewEraOfUniqueFinds awaits. For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on social media.
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A white-bellied woodpecker inside its nest. (Photo credit: Vince Angelo Gicaraya)
By: Eunice Jean C. Patron
A white-bellied woodpecker inside its nest. (Photo credit: Vince Angelo Gicaraya)
Many birds rely on tree cavities, or tree holes, for nesting and raising their young. Woodpeckers, known as primary excavators, can create their own cavities. In contrast, non-excavators—also called secondary cavity nesters—depend on naturally occurring or previously excavated cavities for reproduction. These birds face challenges such as a scarcity of suitable cavities, which can limit their population growth. To protect them, it is important to understand the specific nesting needs of each bird species and how they interact with one another. In regions like the Philippines, where forests are vulnerable to change, there is still limited information on how these birds nest and how they are connected.
Because studying birds’ nesting preferences is vital for improving habitat management and protecting threatened species, biologists from the University of the Philippines Diliman – College of Science (UPD-CS), in collaboration with environmentalists from other institutions, analyzed the cavities used by birds in the Subic Watershed Forest Reserve, Zambales, Philippines.
Vince Angelo Gicaraya from the Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (IESM) and the Institute of Biology (IB) at UPD-CS, Dr. Carmela Española from UPD-CS’s IB and the Natural Sciences Research Institute (NSRI), and biologists from the Biodiversity Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and from Pampanga, together with local guides and volunteers, conducted a tree cavity survey along established and off-trail routes in Subic from February to June 2022.
The single rope climbing technique was used to access nests in trees. (Photo credit: Vince Angelo Gicaraya)
The group found nests of 10 species of cavity-nesting birds in both living and dead native trees, primarily belonging to kupang trees (Parkia timoriana) and white lauan trees (Shorea contorta). Using multinomial logistic regression modeling, they discovered that cavity characteristics—such as depth, volume, and entrance area—play an important role in how bird species choose their nesting sites. The research not only underscores the importance of conserving and planting native trees to support the nesting opportunities of cavity-nesting species but also provides baseline data (measurements) for developing conservation tools (e.g., species-specific nest boxes) for the Philippine Red List Critically Endangered and Vulnerable species Blue-naped Parrot (Tanygnathus lucionensis) and Luzon Hornbill (Penelopides manillae), respectively.
The study also showed that 63% of nests used by non-excavator birds were made by woodpeckers, highlighting the importance of woodpeckers in providing nest sites for many bird species.
“This study is the second of its kind in Asia—and the first in the Philippines—that examines nest web interactions at the community level,” the team of biologists explained. Nest web interactions refer to the way different animals, especially birds, are connected through their use of tree cavities for nesting. “Unlike in temperate Europe and subtropical South America, where woodpeckers are not considered keystone species—or animals that have a particularly large impact on their environment—this study provides evidence of their keystone role in tropical forests, similar to findings in India and Canada.”
“These results highlight the urgent need to prioritize research and conservation efforts for primary excavators—birds like woodpeckers that create their own nesting holes—in the Philippines, where both these species and those that rely on their nesting sites remain largely understudied,” they added.
The research paper, titled “Cavity characteristics explain the differences in realized nest niches among tree cavity-nesting birds in a lowland tropical forest in Luzon Island, Philippines,” was included in Annales Zoologici Fennici, a journal publication which shares original research reports, in-depth reviews, and commentary on all aspects of animal ecology, evolution, and related fields.
This study was also funded by NSRI and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Foreign-Assisted and Special Projects Service (DENR-FASPS) through the collaborative efforts of the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) and IB.
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A total of 110 families affected by persistent flooding in Bacolor, Pampanga receive essential relief aid from the national government, as part of its sustained response to the impact of the southwest monsoon (Habagat) and recent tropical disturbances Crising, Dante, and Emong. (PCO)
By Marie Joy S. Carbungco
A total of 110 families affected by persistent flooding in Bacolor, Pampanga receive essential relief aid from the national government, as part of its sustained response to the impact of the southwest monsoon (Habagat) and recent tropical disturbances Crising, Dante, and Emong. (PCO)
BACOLOR, Pampanga — A total of 110 families affected by persistent flooding in Bacolor, Pampanga have received essential relief aid from the national government, as part of its sustained response to the impact of the southwest monsoon (Habagat) and recent tropical disturbances Crising, Dante, and Emong.
Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian personally led the distribution of food packs, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, family clothing kits, and ready-to-eat meals to the affected families.
In addition, the provincial government, led by Governor Lilia Pineda, also provided the evacuees with hotdog sandwiches and bottled water.
“Ang instructions ng ating Pangulo ay no let-up. Ibig sabihin, tuluy-tuloy tayo. (The President’s instructions are clear — no let-up. Relief operations must continue),” Gatchalian said, referring to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ‘s directive for uninterrupted disaster assistance.
The 110 families from Bacolor are among the 615,000 families nationwide that have already been provided aid by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through food and emergency supplies.
“Laging tinatanong sa amin kung kaya pa ng DSWD. Kayang-kaya pa ng DSWD. Nakahanda tayo para sa ganitong mga pagkakataon. (They always asked if DSWD could do it. DSWD is more than capable. We are prepared for situations like this where disasters come one after another),” Gatchalian added, reaffirming the agency’s readiness amid successive disasters.
Flooding in several areas of Central and Northern Luzon has forced thousands of residents into evacuation centers.
With this, President Marcos also directed the deployment of standby medical teams in all evacuation centers to help prevent outbreaks of diseases like leptospirosis.
“Kapatid ng social welfare at relief packs ang medikal na pagtugon. (Medical response is the twin of social welfare and relief packs),” Gatchalian stressed, noting the coordination between the DSWD and the Department of Health under Secretary Ted Herbosa.
For her part, Governor Pineda expressed gratitude to the national government for its swift support, especially as many barangays remain inundated and local government calamity funds are limited.
“Kung hindi mag-aaugment ang national government, talagang hindi kakayanin. (If the national government will not augment our efforts, we wouldn’t have managed),” she said.
Pineda stressed that many villages in Pampanga are still inundated, and that prolonged flooding requires sustained support from the national government.
“Ang pondo na nakalaan sa mga LGU [local government units] para sa calamity fund ay five percent lang. Minsan ang isang bayan, 10 [barangays] ang flooded, thousands ang naapektuhan. (The allocation for the calamity funds of LGUs is only five percent. Sometimes there are 10 flooded villages in a town with thousands of people affected),” she said.
The governor also appealed to residents experiencing symptoms of illness amid the flooding to seek medical help immediately.
“Pakiusap lang po, kapag may nararamdaman kayong mga sakit, pumunta lang po kayo sa inyong mga barangay health worker, sa kapitan ninyo. Meron po kaming mga nakaprepare na gamot sa ospital…Wag nyo pong palalain ang sakit ninyo. (If you feel sick, just go to your barangay health workers, to your captains. Hospitals and medicines are ready. Don’t let your illness get worse),” Pineda said, urging Kapampangans not to delay treatments especially with exposure from contaminated floodwaters.
Meanwhile,53-year old Orieta Gagui, one of the beneficiaries, expressed her heartfelt appreciation on behalf of the displaced families.
“Presidente [Marcos], dakal a dakal a salamat pu kekayu. Ala kami man pung aligtas gamit. Malan mi man ala kami. May naawa lang po sa amin na nagbigay ng damit. (President, thank you so, so much. We have nothing left. We were not able to save any belongings, not even clothes. Someone just took pity on us and gave us clothes. We’re really very grateful for this aid,” she said in Kapampangan.
As floods persist and rains show little sign of letting up, Gatchalian assured that the national government remains on full alert.
“Sa disaster response, talagang naka-prepare ang pamahalaang nasyonal. (When it comes to disaster response, the national government is truly prepared — not just the DSWD, but also the DOH, and all other national government agencies),” he said.
The relief distribution reflects the Marcos administration’s broader commitment to leave no family behind, ensuring that relief reaches even the smallest communities battered by back-to-back natural calamities. (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)
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