BY ALEX ALAGON
THE 10TH Infantry Division (10ID) declared all 84 municipalities and cities within its jurisdiction cleared of communist insurgency.
The announcement, made during a press briefing at The Royal Mandaya Hotel, positions the 10ID as potentially the first infantry division in the country to achieve a totally “insurgency-free” status across its entire area of responsibility.
Major Ruben Gadut, 10ID public affairs chief, confirmed that the status covers the entire Davao Region and strategic clusters in neighboring provinces, including parts of Sarangani, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, Bukidnon, Agusan del Sur, and Surigao del Sur.
“Technically speaking, all areas in 10ID are already insurgency-free,” Gadut told reporters. “We are likely the only Infantry Division in the Philippines to have its entire area of responsibility declared NPA-free.”
The “insurgency-free” designation follows a rigorous validation process by local peace and order councils.
According to Gadut, the 10ID met the stringent parameters set by the AFP-PNP Joint Letter Directive III, which measures the “manpower, firepower, and influence” of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG).
“In our case, there is no one left. They can no longer function as a guerrilla front or conduct tactical offensives. No soldiers will be ambushed because the manpower is dismantled and firepower is non-existent,” Gadut explained.
The military credited the success to the Community Support Program (CSP), which cleared infiltrated barangays and facilitated the delivery of government services to former conflict zones.
With the internal threat neutralized, 10ID commander Major General Alvin Luzon has sought a mechanism to hand over the lead security role to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and local government units (LGUs) so they could shift toward external defense.
“We can now focus on protecting our territorial integrity and sea areas,” Gadut said, noting the proximity of the region to the West Philippine Sea. “It is not far-fetched that [external threats] could possibly happen in our coastal areas, and we must be ready.”
A shared victory
The 10ID attributed the victory to a “whole-of-nation” approach, citing the cooperation of local leaders and the media in dismantling the insurgents’ narrative.
“This is not only an advantage for the Army but for the whole Davao region,” Gadut said. “The communities now participate in government programs without resistance or support for armed threat groups.”
- Davao police to help prevent fuel hoarding amid price surge
By Rhoda Grace B Saron
AS FUEL prices continue to climb, the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) warned against petroleum hoarding, urging the public to report erring gas stations through the city’s 911 emergency hotline.
During a press briefing at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday, March 11, PRO XI spokesperson Major Catherine Dela Rey clarified that while the police do not have the authority to regulate oil prices, they have been mandated to act as the “eyes and ears” of the Department of Energy.
“The mandate of our regional director to all patrollers is to conduct patrols in gasoline stations so they can monitor the price and ensure no chaos happens,” Dela Rey said.
The directive comes as authorities intensify monitoring of fuel retailers to ensure that the “unjustified refusal” to sell petroleum products does not further burden consumers already reeling from record-high pump prices.
In a public advisory, the DCPO clarified that hoarding involves the “undue accumulation of petroleum products beyond normal inventory levels.”
It also covers businesses that refuse to distribute or sell fuel to consumers without a valid justification—often a tactic used to wait for higher price points before releasing stock.
“We are calling on the public to be vigilant,” the DCPO stated. “Hoarding is not just a regulatory violation; it is a direct hit to the pockets of every Filipino who relies on these essential products.”
Dela Rey emphasized that the role of the police is strictly limited to security and information gathering.
Under the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act, the authority to act on overpricing remains with the Department of Energy.
“If there is something we see… because the DOE will give the pricing standard to us. If it is too much [above the standard], our patrollers will report it immediately to the station,” she explained.
When asked if the police would reprimand erring gas station owners on the spot, Dela Rey was firm: “No, because it’s not part of our [mandate]. The Department of Energy needs to act on that, but if they need security, we will provide it.”
Report to 911
To streamline enforcement, the DCPO funneled all hoarding reports into the city’s 911 emergency system.
Residents are encouraged to report any station claiming to be “out of stock” despite visible deliveries or those limiting sales without a technical cause.
In addition to the 911 hotline, the DCPO has provided several mobile and landline options for reporting:
SMART: 0998-579-7054 / 0919-070-2222
PLDT: 227-5777
Support for ‘culture of security’
The anti-hoarding campaign is part of Davao City’s broader “culture of security” program.
By reporting these incidents, the police say citizens will help law enforcement and the Department of Energy (DOE) maintain a fair and transparent market during the energy crisis.
Under the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act, businesses found guilty of hoarding or price manipulation face stiff administrative and criminal penalties, including the possible cancellation of their business permits.
SAMAL ISLAND — Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower), through its distribution utility Davao Light and Power Company (Davao Light), completed a historic first for the company via a submarine cable laying in the Pakiputan Strait, connecting the Island Garden City of Samal to Davao City. This is an initial step to the resort island’s long-awaited integration into the mainland’s power grid after years of service woes.
A cable-laying vessel, guided by support boats and a team of technical experts and divers, brought the submarine cable across one of the strait’s narrowest points between Davao City and Samal, with the route intentionally mapped to minimize environmental impact along the cable’s path. The 1,015 meters of state-of-the-art submarine cable was produced in China, custom-built to meet the project’s specifications.
Succeeding phases will see divers securing the submarine cables underwater and the construction of cable terminal stations at both shore ends. The 69-kilovolt project is expected to be completed by mid-2026, bringing much-needed power network stability and supporting the growing load requirements in Samal.
“Davao Light is ready, poised, and equipped to serve the people, communities, and businesses of the Island Garden City of Samal,” said Davao Light President and COO Enriczar Tia. “Our immediate priorities will be customer service support, network expansion, and substation upgrades that will help build a robust electric distribution system.”
According to AboitizPower Anton Perdices, SVP & COO of the Distribution Business Group, Davao Light will strive to operate using best practices and world-class standards that will help encourage growth and development and improve quality of life. “By doing so, AboitizPower and Davao Light will be able to support local progress and national goals.”
For years, Samal has faced power distribution issues due to aging infrastructure and network maintenance concerns. The frequent outages on the island have strained households, disrupted businesses, and weakened Samal’s potential as a tourism hub. A former local executive said that the city incurred annual damages of about P120 to P150 million since the 2010s due to inconsistencies and unresolved power issues.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) granted the Provisional Authority for Davao Light’s Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN), which formally cleared the way for the submarine cable laying connecting Samal to the mainland grid.
Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib welcomed the approval, describing it as a turning point for the province and a signal of more reliable power service ahead. “This may be one document but this spells a brighter future and a better life to the people of Davao del Norte,” the governor said in an official statement.
“With the expected stability in the power network, we look to attract investors and generate more jobs for our people here in Samal,” added Samal Mayor Lemuel Reyes. “We thank Davao Light and AboitizPower for kicking off this project; one that would improve the lives of the people in our island.”
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the Island Garden City of Samal has a population of 119,701 as of the 2024 census.
Davao Light is the third largest privately-owned distribution utility in the Philippines, serving the cities of Davao and Panabo, plus the municipalities of Carmen, Dujali, and Sto. Tomas.
Republic Act No. 12144, which took effect last April 2025, expanded Davao Light’s franchise area to several areas in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro, including Samal. Its legality was affirmed by the Supreme Court in January 2026.
A Writ of Possession was also issued by the Regional Trial Court – Panabo Branch 4, authorizing Davao Light to take over all electric distribution assets in Samal.
LIZA BELLE L. PATAGOC & MICHELLE G. RAFAEL/DNSC Interns
THE DAVAO City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) announced road closures along the coastal road from March 20–22, 2026, for the Ironman 70.3 Davao, urging motorists to take precautions to prevent incidents and ensure smooth event operations.
CTTMO head Dionisio Abude said several sections of the Davao City Coastal Road will undergo full and partial closures during the three-day triathlon.
On March 20, full closures will start at 8 a.m. from Bago Aplaya to Talomo Road, extending to Tulip Rotunda at 2 p.m.
On March 21, the same stretch will be closed from 3 a.m. until midnight, while Talomo Road to Sta. Ana Bridge will be closed from 9 p.m. to midnight.
On race day, March 22, Coastal Road from Bago Aplaya to Sta. Ana Bridge will be closed from midnight to 1 p.m., while Bago Aplaya to Talomo Road will again be closed starting 1 p.m. Partial closures will also affect Tulip Drive, Ecoland Drive, Quimpo Boulevard, and the northbound lane of the Davao–Cotabato Road.
“Atong suportahan nga hapsay kay ang Ironman naay visitor gikan sa laing country, so atong ipakita ang atong pagka Dabawenyo, disiplinado (Let’s support the Ironman to ensure a smooth event because visitors are coming from other countries, so let’s show how disciplined Davaoeños are),” Abude said.
The traffic management plan aims to guide motorists and ensure the safety of both participants and spectators.
Abude encouraged motorists to take alternative routes and follow traffic advisories to avoid delays while the city hosts the Ironman 70.3 Davao.
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Zamboanga City, Philippines – In the spirit of giving this Ramadan, Maxim Rides & Food Delivery launched a community support initiative in Zamboanga City, providing free iftar meals and school supplies to help families in need.
In partnership with the local barangay, the Maxim team distributed 250 free iftar meals near the main campus of Universidad de Zamboanga. Prepared with the help of promoters and driver-partners, each meal pack included chicken, rice, noodles, and bottled water, and was given to students, teachers, traffic enforcers, motorists, and other community members preparing to break their fast.
As part of the same initiative, Maxim also distributed 500 school supply sets at Tumaga Elementary School. Each set contained a notebook, ballpen, and ruler, helping parents reduce the cost of educational materials. The distribution was coordinated with the school’s Office-in-Charge and teachers to ensure an organized and smooth process.
“Ramadan is a time for reflection, compassion, and giving back to the community,” said Ahiddan Maldisa, Head of Maxim Zamboanga. “Through these efforts, we are honored to support families and residents, providing meals for those observing the fast and school supplies for children who need them most.”
Through initiatives like this, Maxim continues to strengthen its engagement with Zamboanga City communities, reinforcing its commitment to compassion, education, and meaningful community partnerships.
DAVAO CITY – Forty of Davao City’s brightest high school leaders gathered at AboitizPower subsidiary Therma South, Inc. (TSI) on February 28, 2026, to explore how sustainable development can shape the future of their communities. The Most Outstanding High School Graduate (MOHSG) nominees, part of Junior Chamber International (JCI) Davao’s youth development program, examined how long-term, collaborative initiatives and companies like TSI contribute to progress aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).
Through interactive discussions, students explored how global sustainability goals, through localized action, can address challenges in Mindanao, particularly in Davao, from climate resilience and energy access to social equity and economic growth.
Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao also attended the workshop and provided an in-depth explanation of the 17 UNSDGs, helping students connect global objectives with local realities and opportunities for impact.
“The UNSDG framework challenges me to think beyond short-term projects. It makes me ask: Will this initiative still matter in years to come? Will it help the next generation of students?” said Ulysses, a MOHSG nominee from Los Amigos National High School.
TSI offered students a closer look at Mindanao’s energy systems, demonstrating how responsible management and community-focused operations contribute to sustainable development. “We want young leaders to understand the broader role of a balanced energy system in advancing community developmentand long-term progress,” said Engr. Mar Benedec Picar, TSI Pollution Control Officer.
The training emphasized reflection, collaboration, and practical understanding of local challenges. Arman Miguel Montero, MOHSG 59 Project Chair and 2026 JCI Davao President-Elect, highlighted the importance of awareness as the foundation for leadership: “When students understand the real issues shaping Mindanao, they can lead with confidence and purpose. Leadership starts with knowledge and grows through action.”
The MOHSG UNSDG Training illustrates the power of multi-sector collaboration. Through the combined efforts of JCI Davao, TSI, and Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao, student leaders gain the tools and insights to translate knowledge into meaningful contributions for their communities.
“By connecting youth leadership with real-world insights, the training empowers students to become active contributors to Mindanao’s sustainable development. The lessons they take forward today could shape solutions that benefit communities for years to come,” Ulysses added. The program is part of JCI Davao’s long-running MOHSG initiative, which aims to equip student leaders with life skills, leadership values, and exposure to different sectors in Mindanao, ensuring the next generation is prepared to tackle social, economic, and environmental challenges.
Manulife Philippines President & CEO Rahul Hora and Chief Marketing Officer Sonali Verma reflect on the company’s legacy as it enters its 119th year and its continued commitment to help make decisions easier and lives better for its customers.
- Manulife ranked highest in customer recommendation among Philippine life insurers for second consecutive year.
- The insurer is expanding access and broadening impact through new solutions and partnerships across health, wealth, and protection.
- Manulife is putting longevity into action through research and thought leadership, innovation and advocacy, and community partnerships—helping make decisions easier and lives better for more Filipino families.
MANILA, Philippines — As one of the country’s longest-serving global financial services companies, Manulife Philippines marks its 119th anniversary with a renewed focus on customer-led protection, health, and wealth solutions that help Filipinos plan with confidence and financial peace of mind. In a survey conducted by global research firm IPSOS, Manulife was named the Philippines’ best-performing life insurer based on customer recommendation, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner for financial advice and protection.
“To be the most recommended means Filipinos trust us, and trust is something you earn by listening and delivering on your word,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “For 119 years, we’ve listened to what matters most to Filipinos—from protecting their families to securing their health and building their financial future, and we’ve shaped our solutions around those priorities while supporting them through life’s major moments.”
“Our customers’ trust inspires us at Manulife to remain true to our purpose: Decisions made easier. Lives made better. By expanding access to innovative and comprehensive protection, health and wealth solutions, we enable Filipinos to plan with confidence and live better, for longer,” Hora added.
Broadening access to holistic financial and health solutions
Rising healthcare costs remained a top financial concern among Filipinos in 2025 and many continue to feel a gap between the future they hope for and the one they expect, according to the 2025 Manulife Asia Care Survey. Additionally, the #FYP: Future-proofing Young Pinoys study, found that while young Filipinos are optimistic about aging, they still feel underprepared for long-term financial planning, with savings falling short of what they expect to need for retirement. The surveys also reveal that many Filipinos recognize the importance of preventive health, few have taken concrete steps toward it.
To help more Filipinos act on their financial and wellness goals, Manulife Philippines expanded its offerings across wealth, investment, and healthcare through new products and partnerships.
- Health and protection access: Manulife Medical Secure offers up to PHP 5 million annual coverage and cashless access to over 1,700 hospitals and clinics nationwide, complementing HMO coverage. Manulife HealthFlex covers more than 100 critical illnesses with premium waiver and guaranteed benefits. Through Manulife’s partnership with AC Health, delivered on the flagship holistic health program ManulifeMOVE, Manulife health customers can access early-detection services, discounted cancer-screening packages, and dedicated support from Healthway Cancer Care Hospital.
- Long-term savings and wealth building: Manulife GoalReady offers investment-linked coverage to age 99, local and global funds, and early loyalty bonuses, with premiums starting at PHP 2,000 monthly. Through its partnership with GCash, Manulife Investments Philippines, the asset management business of Manulife Philippines, offers several Unit Investment Trust Funds (UITFs), including funds that invest in global and Asia-Pacific Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).
Accelerating reach through bancassurance and strategic agency expansion
Manulife Philippines, Manulife China Bank Life Assurance Corporation, and Manulife Investment Management and Trust Corporation continued to expand their collective reach—strengthening a shared network that enables more Filipinos to access their life and health protection and wealth-building solutions.
- In 2025, Manulife Philippines and China Banking Corporation (Chinabank) renewed their long-standing bancassurance partnership under Manulife China Bank Life Assurance Corp. (MCBL) for another 15 years. Since its founding in 2007, MCBL has offered customers comprehensive health and life insurance plans covering common critical illnesses in the Philippines, long-term savings, retirement planning, and a diverse range of fund options tailored to individual financial goals.
- Manulife Philippines also recently expanded its physical presence with a new agency office in Makati City. In addition, the company will open six new and relocated branches across key locations nationwide—starting in March with Bacolod and San Fernando, Pampanga—to accommodate its growing agency force of more than 10,000 financial advisors and agency leaders and strengthen its ability to serve more Filipinos.
Turning insights into programs enabling longevity and driving real-world impact
As Filipinos redefine what it means to live longer and better, Manulife champions a view of longevity that encompasses financial security, healthier lives, stronger communities, and a better world for future generations. This belief powers the Manulife Longevity Institute, a global platform backed by a CA$350 million investment that advances research and thought leadership, innovation and advocacy, and community partnerships to help people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives.
Key initiatives include Manulife Peso Smart, which has equipped over 4,000 young Filipinos across 18 schools with saving, budgeting, and investing skills, supporting financial resilience. Manulife Impact Forests, in partnership with the Haribon Foundation, has planted over 31,000 native trees across terrestrial and coastal sites nationwide, contributing to a healthier planet. Earlier this year, Manulife Philippines formalized a tripartite agreement with Haribon Foundation and the Corazon Sanchez Atayde Memorial Foundation (CSAMF) to scale these initiatives and expand their collective reach.
“At Manulife, we believe our responsibility and impact as an insurer go beyond the policies we write,” said Sonali Verma, Chief Marketing Officer, Manulife Philippines. “Our commitment through the Longevity Institute is to drive action on helping people live longer, healthier and more financially secure lives. Aligned to our Impact Agenda, we’re building financial confidence in the next generation, protecting the environment they will inherit, and forging partnerships that enable us to scale our reach, deepen our impact, and proudly contribute to nation-building. When communities are healthier and more financially secure, families thrive and build a more resilient future. That’s what it means to be a trusted lifelong partner to Filipino families.”
THIS YEAR’S Datu Bago Awards will recognize civic leaders, a visual artist, and a banker who will be conferred on March 18 as part of the 89th Araw ng Dabaw.
The Datu Bago Awardees Organization, Inc. (DBAOI) has officially announced on Tuesday the individuals selected as recipients of the 2026 Datu Bago Awards.
Established in 1969 and named after local hero Datu Bago, the Datu Bago Awards is the highest recognition bestowed on exemplary Dabawenyos for their “outstanding contributions to the growth, development, and cultural heritage of Davao City.”
“The Datu Bago Awards recognize individuals whose dedication, excellence, and leadership have significantly contributed to the city’s progress and who serve as role models for the Dabawenyo community,” DBAOI stated.
The 2026 Datu Bago Awardees are:
Eduardo A. Bangayan- Public Service
A visionary leader whose work advances economic development, public utilities, and environmental sustainability in Davao City, championing water security, education, ànd social welfare programs while strengthening public institutions and community resilience.
Gene C. Bangayan- Tourism
A distinguished tourism leader who elevated Davao’s global visibility through entrepreneurial innovation and advocacy, with her initiatives strengthening the local economy, promoting sustainable tourism, and earning national and international recognition.
Maria Cristina Floirendo Brias -Community Livelihood
A champion of MSMEs and inclusive community development, empowering marginalized communities through livelihood programs with leadership expanding the Mindanao Trade Expo and strengthening creative industries while promoting economic resilience, cultural preservation, and sustainable growth.
Alex V. Buenaventura- Rural Banking
Buenaventura, as a development banker, transformed rural finance and expanded financial access for farmers and entrepreneurs, establishing One Network Bank and led the Land Bank of the Philippines, advancing financial inclusion, agricultural development, and sustainable economic progress locally and globally.
Manuel M. Orig -Civic Service
A transformative civic leader who strengthened energy security and institutional development in Davao. He helped establish the Mindanao Electric Power Alliance and founded the LEAD Awards, advancing infrastructure, governance, and sustainable urban growth through responsible leadership.
Welehito N. Pepito -Visual Arts
A self-taught artist whose works and mentorship shaped Davao’s artistic identity. He is a visionary artist and builder of Davao’s Creative Community with public artworks and leadership in art organizations nurtured young talents, and enriching the city’s cultural landscape.
“The 2026 honorees were selected for their exceptional achievements, leadership, and lasting impact in their respective fields, bringing honor and distinction to Davao City both locally and internationally,” the organization stressed.
The awarding ceremony will take place on March 18, 2026, at 5 p.m. at The Royal Mandaya Hotel, as part of the celebration of the city’s annual Araw ng Dabaw festivities.
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