Valencia City Mayor Pledges Support for Flood Victims Amid Death Toll

Valencia City Mayor Amie Galario reaffirmed her commitment to aiding families impacted by recent flooding, which resulted in at least three fatalities. On Thursday, September 18, she personally visited 349 families temporarily sheltered at the city gymnasium, assuring them of continued local government support. The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) confirmed that the flooding on Wednesday, September 17, has claimed three lives and left five individuals missing. The hardest-hit areas include Barangays Poblacion, Barobo, Lumbo, Bagontaas, and Sugod, where classes have been suspended to prioritize safety. In a statement, the city administration emphasized, \"The local leadership has expressed its ongoing cooperation with all agencies to ensure the complete rescue and aid of all disaster victims.\" Mayor Galario’s actions underscore the city’s dedication to disaster response and community welfare during this critical time.

Historic Imperial Hotel in Davao City Destroyed by Fire

The Imperial Hotel, recognized as one of Davao City’s early landmark accommodations, was severely damaged by a fire that broke out around 9 p.m. on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. Located along Claro M. Recto Avenue, the hotel has served as a popular budget lodging option since opening in the late 1990s. Known locally as a convenient and affordable choice for travelers, the Imperial Hotel holds a notable place among Dabawenyos, positioned near key commercial establishments in the city. The blaze erupted inside the building and quickly escalated, drawing a prompt response from the city’s fire department. Residents in a nearby condominium were alarmed by the thick smoke and promptly evacuated for their safety. "We immediately went down because the smoke was very heavy. Fortunately, the firewalls prevented the fire from spreading to the condo, but it was still a frightening experience. Authorities did not allow us to return until the fire was under control," said Francis, a 21-year-old student who lives nearby. Local authorities rerouted public utility vehicles to Palma Gil Street towards Padre Gomez Street via Roxas Avenue after Claveria Street was cordoned off to provide fire trucks unimpeded access. According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Davao City Fire District's preliminary report, the fire consumed approximately 2,400 square meters of the hotel premises, resulting in an estimated damage of P1.5 million. The fire was declared fully extinguished after nearly five hours. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, fatalities, or missing persons. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire. Meanwhile, the BFP has reminded the public to remain vigilant, exercise caution, and avoid negligence that could potentially lead to similar incidents.

Muntinlupa Launches ‘Busog Lusog’ Nutrition Program for Children and Families

Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon attended the orientation of the \'Busog Lusog\' program, part of the local government\'s broader \'Womb to Work Program\'. The initiative aims to ensure that young beneficiaries receive adequate nutrition, which is vital for their growth and learning development. Mayor Biazon emphasized that the program’s benefits extend beyond children to include their parents. He stated, \"This program also involves parents in training sessions that teach them how to prepare nutritious meals, guaranteeing the proper physical and cognitive development of their children, especially during the crucial first 1,000 days of life.\" Highlighting the importance of nutrition for educational readiness, the Mayor added, \"With proper nutrition, our youth will be better prepared both physically and mentally when they start their schooling.\"

Chris Gavina Aims to End UE's 16-Year Final Four Drought in UAAP Season 88

The University of the East (UE) embarks on a new chapter under the leadership of head coach Chris Gavina, who is determined to revive the school’s long-standing aspiration of returning to the UAAP Final Four. Gavina takes on his first collegiate coaching role starting with Season 88, which kicks off this Saturday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion. “Our ultimate goal remains unchanged: to compete for a spot in the Final Four. That’s what we have been diligently preparing for,” Gavina shared, reflecting on the transition from professional to collegiate basketball. At 46, Gavina brings a wealth of coaching experience, having led Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) teams such as Mahindra (KIA) and Rain or Shine. He also made history as the first Filipino coach in Taiwan’s T1 League with the Taichung Suns and guided the Taiwan Mustangs to a championship in an Asian tournament leg last year, playing a key role in preparing Gilas Pilipinas for the Paris Olympic qualifiers. Despite his pro background, Gavina acknowledges the distinct challenge of coaching university players, emphasizing development and mentorship. “The major difference from pro coaching is working with younger players who are still developing habits and maturity. Our focus is on building a sustainable winning culture and turning individuals into leaders who embrace that culture,” Gavina explained. Last season, UE nearly ended its 16-year absence from the semifinals after a strong 5-2 start but ultimately finished fifth. This year, with key players Precious Momowei, Wello Lingolingo, John Abate, and Nico Mulingtapang intact, Gavina’s squad is poised to challenge for a playoff berth once again. Supporting Gavina is a seasoned coaching staff, including longtime deputy RJ Argamino and former PBA veterans and UE alumni KG Canaleta and Paolo Hubalde. Additionally, Alex Cabagnot has been appointed head of basketball operations. UE begins its campaign with a match against National University, signaling the start of Gavina’s ambitious journey to restore the Fighting Warriors’ competitive stature.

Transport Group PISTON Announces Strike to Demand Accountability Over Flood Control Project Mismanagement

MANILA, Philippines — The transport organization PISTON has declared a strike scheduled for Thursday, September 18, to protest corruption related to the controversial flood control project. In their official Facebook statement, the group emphasized the urgency for concrete consequences, stating, \"Hearings and investigations alone are no longer enough. Someone must be held accountable! Someone must be put in jail.\" They urged the transportation sector to demonstrate their dissatisfaction with the status quo. The announcement highlighted the growing frustration within the sector over the handling of the project, which has been marred by allegations of mismanagement and corruption. Further specifics about the strike remain undisclosed. Additionally, PISTON is calling on the public to participate in a large-scale protest organized with allied groups on September 21 at Luneta Park, Manila. This upcoming strike and rally underscore continuing tensions between transport groups and government authorities, reflecting broader demands for transparency and responsibility in public infrastructure initiatives.

Cebu City Vice Mayor Cuts Over P500 Million from Office Budget to Prioritize Essential Programs

Cebu City Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña has announced a major budget reduction exceeding P500 million from the combined allocations of his office and the City Council for the year 2026. The cuts aim to divert funds towards critical programs directly benefiting residents, including healthcare, education scholarships, and assistance for senior citizens. Osmeña revealed the proposed adjustments in a social media post dated September 12, 2025, where he shared comparative budget visuals illustrating the shift from the 2025 to the 2026 allocations for the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP), its Secretariat, and the Office of the Vice Mayor (OVM). The current combined budget of approximately P925 million is set to be halved to around P415 million next year, reflecting a P512 million reduction. "As head of the Legislative, I am proud to announce that we will be saving over half a billion pesos in budget cuts compared to previous years," Osmeña stated. The Vice Mayor emphasized that these savings will be redirected to essential community services, including medicines, scholarships for city students, and aid for senior citizens—programs he considers vital to improving the livelihood of Cebuanos. "These items directly impact the lives of Cebuanos and are more important than projects I consider unnecessary," he noted. Among the projects eliminated by the budget downsizing is the proposed Vice Mayor’s Portrait Gallery, which Osmeña described as a "useless vanity project" associated with an "overpriced BYD-loving official" who placed self-promotional displays throughout City Hall. Key cuts include P168 million from the Legislative Support Fund Program, P100 million from the Comprehensive Capital Development Program, and P50 million originally allocated for an Archives Building. Further reductions encompass P80 million for legislative building renovations, P20 million for the Vice Mayor’s Gallery, and P77 million from the OVM’s Other Maintenance and Operating Expenses, previously used for job orders, meals, and venue rentals. The budget cuts break down as follows: the SP Legislative budget will decline 53 percent from P606 million to P283 million; the SP Secretariat will see a 73 percent decrease from P179 million to P48 million; and the OVM’s budget will drop by 42 percent, from P140 million to P82 million. Despite the substantial reductions, Osmeña confirmed that certain initiatives would continue, including a P30 million allocation for installing solar panels on the Legislative Building—a priority project of Mayor Nestor Archival. The OVM will also maintain support for new programs such as the "Mayor of the Night" initiative, the establishment of a Fund Finding Commission, and a 24/7 Help Desk aimed at enhancing public service access. During a council session on September 10, Osmeña explained that the budget figure reflects deliberate cost-saving measures, including leaving several plantilla positions unfilled within his office. "I have prepared the budget for next year with P500 million less than this year," he disclosed, emphasizing a personal commitment to fiscal responsibility. He further highlighted the need to ensure equitable distribution of resources, acknowledging that while not everyone can receive assistance, it is essential that those excluded are not unfairly penalized. "Whatever we have, we just divide it. Okay?" Osmeña remarked. The announcement coincided with ongoing discussions among council members regarding financial aid for senior citizens. Councilor Sisinio Andales urged the Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (Osca) to review its beneficiary list amid inconsistencies in reported numbers across the quarters. He expressed concern that unqualified individuals may be receiving benefits while deserving seniors remain excluded, calling for thorough verification to uphold fairness. Osmeña’s budget restructuring underscores a strategic shift toward prioritizing programs with direct community impact amid fiscal constraints affecting Cebu City governance for 2026.

Bacolod City Professor Faces Multiple Sexual Harassment Complaints Following Dismissal

After a Bacolod City College professor was dismissed for sexual harassment, more alleged victims have stepped forward to file complaints against him. Mayor Greg Gasataya’s office confirmed the influx of new reports following the public exposure of the case. "We received more messages but we’re still validating since we need evidence. Our commitment to them is that we will ensure that as long as these are verified and valid and the complaints have basis, we will act on them," Mayor Gasataya stated. The mayor emphasized the city government’s full support for any formal charges the victims may pursue, underscoring that sexual harassment within educational institutions sends a damaging message. Mayor Gasataya also disclosed that the professor sought to arrange a meeting with him, which he declined due to the completion of the investigation and the existing evidence. Following a comprehensive inquiry, the city government ordered the immediate dismissal of the professor, who was found guilty of soliciting sexual favors in exchange for grades. Currently, the accused has submitted a motion for reconsideration, which is under review by the City Legal Office.

Quezon City Vice Mayor Applauds Youth Participation in 2025 Basketball Schools Division Cup

Quezon City Vice Mayor Gian Sotto expressed his admiration for the youth who took part in the Quezon City-Wide Basketball Schools Division Cup 2025. He highlighted the event's importance in fostering athletic skills and promoting sportsmanship among the city’s young residents. "Basketball is truly a way of life in Quezon City. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the youth participants who joined and supported this tournament organized by the Quezon City Sports Development Office and the Quezon City Government at the Amoranto Sports Complex," Sotto remarked. The Vice Mayor emphasized the significance of nurturing young talent and applauded their display of integrity and respect on and off the court. "It is both an honor and a privilege to help develop the sports abilities of our youth. Your exemplary sportsmanship reflects your faith, integrity, and respect." He concluded with an inspiring message, stressing the responsibility borne by the youth beyond the game: "You are not only holding the basketball, but also the future of our community and city! Long live to all of you!"

Quezon City Launches Inclusive Climate Action Training for Local Government Staff

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte officially inaugurated the Inclusive Climate Action (ICA) Training Program tailored for local government employees. The initiative, supported by the C40 Cities Urban Climate Action Programme – Climate Action Implementation (UCAP CAI), seeks to enhance the environmental awareness and expertise of city government workers. Mayor Belmonte emphasized the program's goal to provide additional knowledge and information to over 19,000 employees of Quezon City Hall. "With this program, we will ensure that the needs of our community are addressed in an inclusive, accessible, and effective manner," she stated. The training is a strategic move to empower local government personnel to actively participate in climate action efforts, promoting sustainable practices within the city's administration and services. This program aligns with Quezon City's commitment to environmental responsibility and community-centered governance.

MSU-IIT Condemns "Badjao Outfit" Trend as Cultural Insensitivity

The Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) has openly denounced the emerging online trend known as the "Badjao Outfit," describing it as a form of cultural mockery rather than genuine appreciation. In a public statement, the Indigenous People Student Advocates of MSU-IIT expressed concern over the trend, which they say exploits the poverty and hardships of the Badjao community for entertainment purposes. "What is circulating online as the so-called \"Badjao Outfit\" trend is not cultural appreciation. It is mockery, plain and simple, the kind of casual cruelty that takes real poverty and turns it into a joke for entertainment," the group stated. Highlighting the historical marginalization faced by the Badjao—characterized by displacement, social exclusion, and hunger—the advocates criticized the reduction of their traditional attire to mere costumes. This, they asserted, diminishes the community's resilience and dismisses their lived realities as subjects of ridicule. The group also underscored the irony of belittling the Badjao given their significant cultural contributions. They pointed to "budots," a popular dance and music genre that originated from marginalized groups like the Badjao and has since permeated mainstream Filipino culture, including political arenas. "To borrow their creativity while laughing at their poverty is hypocrisy, and it should not be tolerated," the statement added. Decrying the trend as "ignorant" and "disappointing," the student advocates warned against society's growing tendency to trivialize the suffering of impoverished communities. They noted that sharing such content reflects a disturbing moral decline. "Making fun of the Badjao is not harmless; it reveals how easily people can laugh at suffering," the statement emphasized. The Indigenous People Student Advocates called on Filipinos to halt the spread of the trend and to challenge the prejudices that support it. Emphasizing that respect should be more than just a catchphrase, they urged a genuine commitment to uphold the dignity and inclusion of Indigenous peoples. "The Badjao are not costumes. They are people with histories, cultures, and contributions that deserve respect—not mockery," the group concluded, urging the public to end the cycle of ridicule and choose respect instead.