By Alex Alagon
THE DAVAO City Fire District (DCFD) has reported 429 incidents for the first four months of 2026, reflecting an 81.78% increase compared to the 236 incidents recorded during the same period last year.
Fire Senior Inspector Frances Mae Sendrijas, spokesperson for the DCFD, shared the data during the Davao Peace and Security press briefing held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel last week.
According to the DCFD, the surge was primarily driven by non-structural fires, which include grass, garbage, and post fires.Of the 429 incidents (January 1 – April 28, 2026), 103 covered residential fires and 43 were non-residential fires.
“Our fire incidents are really high this year,” Sendrijas remarked, noting that non-structural fires are the primary concern due to the current extreme heat.
“If you notice, the northern and southern parts of Davao City, where there are vast grasslands and agricultural lands, are the areas most prone to these fires,” she explained.
Escalating risksThe DCFD warns that uncontrolled grass and garbage fires pose a direct threat to residential areas.Sendrijas said that in dry conditions, a small, neglected fire can quickly become uncontrollable, potentially spreading to nearby houses.
In this light, the DCFD is intensifying its campaign against open burning, which is strictly prohibited under the Fire Code of the Philippines.
“We are actively using our social media platforms to remind the public that open burning is not allowed,” Sendrijas stated. “We are urging residents to dispose of their trash properly. With the current energy crisis and the lack of rain, we need everyone’s cooperation to lessen these incidents.”
The DCFD is also coordinating with homeowners’ associations to monitor areas where reports of open burning have surfaced.Despite the strain on resources, Sendrijas assured the public that the DCFD remains fully prepared to respond to emergencies.
She encouraged residents to remain vigilant and report any fire safety violations immediately.
“Davao City Fire District is ready to respond in case of any emergency. We urge the community to help us—if you see violations, please report them so we can act immediately,” she added.
On Monday, there was a reported house on fire at Purok 30, Km. 10.5, Cabantian. However, the Bureau of Fire has yet to provide details regarding the incident.
Camiguin, Philippines – The island province of Camiguin takes center stage this weekend as it hosts the inaugural 5150 Camiguin, bringing together more than 300 athletes from 15 countries in a celebration of triathlon, tourism, and Filipino hospitality.
Set against one of the Philippines’ most iconic island backdrops, the Olympic-distance race marks another milestone in the continued expansion of IRONMAN-branded events across the country. Known as the “Island Born of Fire,” Camiguin offers a distinctive race experience where volcanoes meet the sea, combining natural beauty with a technically engaging course.
Athletes will begin with a 1.5km swim at the historic Sunken Cemetery, followed by a 40km bike along the island’s scenic circumferential road, and a 10km run that finishes inside the Camiguin Sports Complex in a festive, community-driven atmosphere.
Strong International and Local Field
The race has attracted participants from 15 countries, underscoring the Philippines’ growing reputation as a premier destination for triathlon in Asia. The international field is complemented by a competitive lineup of Filipino athletes, including standouts in the Philippine Sports Commission-supported Filipino Elite category.
Leading the charge are top local names such as Bea Quiambao and John Edsille Hamlan, alongside emerging talents identified through the Filipino Elite program. The category continues to serve as a platform to elevate homegrown athletes and discover the next generation of triathlon stars in the country.
Expanding the Islands of the Philippines Campaign
5150 Camiguin is part of the broader “Islands of the Philippines” campaign, a multi-race initiative designed to showcase the country’s diverse island destinations through sport. The campaign invites athletes to race across multiple locations, combining endurance competition with immersive travel experiences unique to each island.
From Guimaras to Camiguin and beyond, the series highlights the Philippines as a multi-stop racing destination where each event offers a distinct course, culture, and community.
A Growing Sports Tourism Destination
With the support of the local government and stakeholders, Camiguin continues to position itself as an emerging hub for sports tourism. The staging of 5150 Camiguin reflects the province’s commitment to hosting world-class events while promoting its natural attractions, including White Island, Katibawasan Falls, and its rich cultural heritage.
The event not only delivers a high-quality race experience but also contributes to the local economy by drawing athletes, supporters, and visitors to the island.
As the race unfolds, 5150 Camiguin reinforces the Philippines’ standing in the global triathlon scene, where island racing meets international standards, and where every finish line is powered by community and culture.
For more information about the event, https://www.ironman.com/races/5150-camiguin.
For more information on the IRONMAN brand and global event series, please visit www.ironman.com or email or email sai.mayol@sunriseevents.com.ph.
MANILA, Philippines – In the midst of unsavory news about local and global affairs, McDonald’s Philippines is delivering much needed good news as it brings back the much-beloved Twister Fries for a limited time.
Starting May 1, Twister Fries is back for fans and customers to enjoy.
“There is always clamor for McDonald’s Philippines to bring back the Twister Fries to its menu. This year, Twister Fries returns not just to delight fans, but also to bring everyday feel-good moments to our customers during this time when we all need something to brighten our days,” says Celina Lagandaon, McDonald’s Philippines Marketing Director.
Lagandaon invites everyone to enjoy Twister Fries as soon as possible because of its limited availability, saying, “35 days can go by just very fast and some regrettably missed the Twister Fries last year. This year, our customers should look forward to daily plot twists that will help them appreciate good in the world while enjoying their beloved golden Twister fries.”
Alongside the exciting return of the Twister Fries is “Your Daily Plot Twist,” digital campaign of special daily surprises during Twister Fries’ availability. Fans and customers should look forward to these daily “plot twists,” which will deliver the signature McDonald’s feel-good moments to everyone.
The McDonald’s Twister Fries can be ordered solo or sharing sizes starting at P89. It can be ordered as an add-on or fries upgrade option for all McDonald’s meals with fries. With Twister Fries available only in just a little over a month, fans and customers should not miss this opportunity to find their own Daily Plot Twists as they enjoy golden, curly-shaped delight. It is available while it lasts via dine-in, takeout, McDelivery, Grab Food, Food Panda, and drive-thru.
IN A BID to bring government services closer to the grassroots, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) XI is set to roll out seven new extension offices across the region by the end of 2026.
Yuri Lim, head of the LTO XI Regional Law Enforcement Operation Section, announced the expansion during the Davao Peace and Security press briefing held last week at The Royal Mandaya Hotel.
The initiative aims to decongest central district offices and provide easier access for residents in far-flung municipalities who previously had to endure long commutes to process their documents.
According to Lim, four of the new offices have already received official approval from the agency’s central office and are currently undergoing facility preparations.
These include: Bansalan, Laak, Lupon, Baganga.”We are currently finalizing the building facilities.
Hopefully, by the middle or third quarter of this year, these four extension offices will be fully operational,” Lim said.
Additionally, the LTO is currently awaiting recommendations from the Technical Working Group regarding the establishment of two more offices in Pantukan and Sasa, Davao City.
These join the existing Calinan extension, which has been fully operational since September 2025.
Lim clarified that these extension offices will offer the same comprehensive services found in regular district offices.
Available services will include: Student Permit applications, Theoretical Driving Courses (via the Driver’s Education Center), Motor Vehicle Registration, New Driver’s License applications, and Law enforcement and road safety compliance monitoring.
“This is a significant step to maximize our agency’s services for our countrymen living far from the city proper,” Lim added.
The LTO XI also confirmed that its existing satellite offices in major malls in Tagum, Digos, and Davao City will continue to operate, further bolstering the agency’s presence across the region.
THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) intensified its peace and order campaign from April 26 to May 2, 2026, netting 148 suspects across a series of high-impact operations targeting illegal drugs, gambling, loose firearms, and wanted individuals.
Under the leadership of city director Col Peter Bauzon Madria, the DCPO reported significant gains in their four-pronged anti-criminality drive, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for lawlessness in the city.
The DCPO executed 47 operations, leading to the arrest of 55 individuals. Authorities confiscated 238.97 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of P1,625,039.52, along with 153.96 grams of marijuana valued at P18,475.20.
Law enforcers conducted 52 operations targeting those evading justice, successfully apprehending 52 individuals. Notably, 25 of those arrested were classified as “Most Wanted Persons.”
In a move to reduce potential violence, 24 operations resulted in the seizure or surrender of 27 firearms (nine seized, 12 surrendered, one recovered, and five turned in for safekeeping).
Eight cases have been filed against suspects.Finally, 17 anti-illegal gambling operations resulted in the arrest of 33 individuals and the confiscation of P13,319 in bet money, with 17 formal cases now filed in court.
Madria credited the operational success to the heightened synergy between the police force, the local community, barangay officials, and the city government.
“These accomplishments are a testament to the dedication of our officers, but they are also a product of the strong partnership we have with the Davaoeños,” Madria stated. “Our mission remains unwavering: to maintain a secure environment where every citizen feels safe.”
DAVAO City police director Col Peter Bauzon Madria led the awarding ceremony to honor officers who demonstrated exceptional bravery and dedication in the line of duty, during the traditional Monday Flag Raising Ceremony held on Monday, May 4, 2026, at the DCPO Parade Ground.
The police leadership praised the personnel whose recent tactical successes have dealt significant blows to criminal elements across the city.
The highlight was the recognition of officers responsible for high-stakes anti-illegal drug operations that removed substantial quantities of shabu from the streets:
- Mintal Operation (April 27): CPL Noriel L. Duray was honored for the successful apprehension of alias “Bagie” and the seizure of 61 grams of suspected shabu valued at P414,800.
- Calinan Operation (April 28): PCPT John Rel B. Caño and PAT Guillen Anthony S. Hengosa were recognized for their work in arresting alias “Ken-Ken,” which resulted in the confiscation of 77.5 grams of shabu (P527,000) and the recovery of a .45 caliber pistol.
- Bucana Operation (April 23): PMAJ Edison G. Fiesta, PCPL Ernesto C. Ehilla III, and PAT Michael Adrian O. Orallo were commended for the operation against alias “Pidot,” securing 30.01 grams of shabu valued at P204,068.
MAJ Philip Dave A. Uddin was awarded the Medal of Excellence (Medal of Merit) for his outstanding performance and professional achievement.
Furthermore, a group of officers—LT COL Ariel F. Nueva, PSMS Stephene D. Arela, PSSG Ryan Karl S. Guillarte, CPL Edward G. Tutor, CPL Giovanni G. Banzon, and PAT Jonathan E. De Ocampo—received Certificates of Commendation for their unwavering commitment to service and their ability to maintain operational success under intense pressure.
Addressing his troops, Madria reminded the force that these awards serve as a symbol of the “sacred duty” they hold to the people of Davao.
“This recognition is a reflection of the hard work and sacrifice required to keep our city peaceful,” PCOL Madria said. “I challenge everyone here to continue striving for excellence and to uphold the highest standards of professionalism. Let this be our benchmark as we continue to serve and protect our community.”
The event reaffirmed the DCPO’s momentum in its ongoing anti-criminality campaigns, signaling a proactive stance against illegal drugs and a dedication to upholding law and order across the city.
THE INAUGURATION of the Carmen Parallel Bridge in Carmen and the Lumayong Parallel Bridge in Kabacan, both in North Cotabato on Monday, May 4, 2026 is seen to boost inter-regional connectivity.
North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza said the widening of bridges enhance accessibility between Region 10 and Region 12 along the Bukidnon-Cotabato corridor.
Built alongside the old Lumayong and old Carmen bridges, the two new structures will double the traffic-bearing capacity of the Kabacan-Carmen crossing.
“These bridges will improve mobility, expand regional access and make transportation more efficient and convenient,” Mendoza said.
The governor added this project also supports stronger economic growth citing Carmen’s role as home to the country’ s palm oil processing operators and coconut refineries.
The Univanich Carmen Palm Oil Corporation operates a major palm oil mill in Carmen, serving local planters, a major player in the palm oil industry in the country.
“Both municipalities, Kabacan and Carmen, play a strategic role in Trigon agri-industrial development zone of Cotabato province and serve as a gateway along the northern highlands corridor of Region 12,” Mendoza said.
While the project commenced in December 2020, it took some time to fund the completion which received its funding in 2024 and officially completed in 2026.
Cayamombao D. Dia, Department of Public Works and Highways Region 12 regional director, presented that Lumayong Parallel Bridge spans 180 linear meters with a total cost of P233.482 million, while the Carmen Parallel Bridge stretches 240 linear meters at a total cost of P266.375 million— bringing the combined government investment to approximately P499.857 million.
“This reflects the government ‘s substantial commitment to improve inter regional infrastructure in Mindanao,” Dia said.
The official added building a new independent bridge deck alongside the existing one to create a four-lane crossing, improve road safety and reduce dependence on structurally aging infrastructure to ensure efficient movement of people and goods.
Construction was carried out in two phases where Phase 1, covering the foundation and substructure components commenced on December 18, 2020, and Phase 2, which covered the superstructure and ancillary works including cement road surfaces, railings, slope protection, and solar streetlights for night-time safety, commenced on September 17, 2024.
Ollie Dagala, director of the Investment Promotion and Public Affairs Office of the Mindanao Development Authority, representing Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno, said the bridges describe them as lifelines across major agricultural hubs in Mindanao.
He noted that the old, narrow crossings had long posed heavy traffic and safety risks, particularly for trucks hauling corn, sugar, and other farm products.
“With the new bridges, transport of goods is expected to be faster, reducing post-harvest losses and translating to better income for farmers and improved food security in the region,” he said.
For Wahab Kadalim, a tricycle driver for 10 years, and resident of Kabacan, the opening of the bridge will ease traffic congestion that affects their livelihood.
“Karon kay medyo arang arang na kay ma open na man ang tulay, okay na kaayo ang biyahe,” he said.
The governor announced that the rehabilitation of the old parallel bridges is targeted for completion between 2027 and 2028.
Team members from AIC Airports and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) during the Project Management & AI Leadership Training held at at the Civil Aviation Training Centre in Parañaque City
In a continued effort to strengthen operational excellence in Philippine aviation, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) personnel are set to benefit from a joint capacity-building initiative focused on modern project management practices.
Held on April 27 and 30 at the Civil Aviation Training Centre in Parañaque City, the AIC Airports and CAAP Project Management Training brought together 44 CAAP participants for the initial session, alongside 8 AIC team members. Additional sessions are scheduled to accommodate more participants, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing collaboration, improving project execution, and aligning both organizations with evolving industry demands.
“This initiative goes beyond training—it is about building a shared language for execution and strengthening alignment across our organizations. As Philippine aviation continues to evolve, AIC Airports’ ability to deliver complex projects efficiently and collaboratively will be critical to sustaining long-term competitiveness,” said AIC Vice President and Head of Airports Rafael M. Aboitiz.
CAAP Director General Lt. Gen. Raul L. Del Rosario AFP (Ret.) emphasized the importance of the collaboration, saying:
“This is where partnerships become essential. We would like to express our sincerest thanks to Aboitiz InfraCapital for sponsoring and supporting this learning initiative. Their commitment to capacity building reflects not only corporate leadership but also a genuine partnership in nation building. This is the type of collaboration that has lasting impact not only between our institutions but also for the public that we all serve.”
Designed to strengthen foundational project management capabilities, the program moved beyond administrative tracking to equip participants with practical tools to lead teams and manage complex projects more effectively.
The training also aimed to:
- Re-acquaint participants with project management as a tool for efficiency tracking
- Identify and address common challenges in initiating and sustaining complex projects
- Develop performance metrics aligned with evolving operational requirements
The training, led by project leadership and capacity building expert Jovenir Batacain, reflects a shift in project leadership approaches—where success is not only defined by technical proficiency, but also by the ability to apply structured thinking and sound decision-making in dynamic environments.
At its core, the initiative emphasizes co-ownership and mutual learning, positioning both AIC Airports and CAAP as active partners in capability-building rather than participants in a one-way training model. AIC Airports and CAAP expressed optimism that this collaboration will serve as a foundation for future joint initiatives, ultimately contributing to safer, more efficient, and globally competitive airport operations in the Philippines.
As power disruptions and energy security conditions continue to affect communities across the country, Globe is strengthening its network readiness to help ensure customers remain connected and experience minimal service interruptions.
Connectivity has become essential to how Filipinos manage daily life, whether staying in touch with family, accessing financial services, running businesses, or coordinating emergency response. During prolonged outages, the ability to communicate becomes even more critical, particularly for households, frontline services, and small enterprises that rely on stable mobile and data connections.
To address these challenges, Globe has intensified its operational preparedness across its network, focusing on sustaining service availability and accelerating restoration in affected areas. The company has implemented enhanced backup power strategies such as expanded battery back up and mobile genset staging, optimized resource deployment, and strengthened contingency protocols across critical sites nationwide.
These measures are designed to enable the network to operate for extended periods during outages, while also allowing technical teams to respond more quickly and efficiently when disruptions occur. By preparing sites, specially in Visayas and Mindanao provinces, in advance and positioning resources closer to high-risk areas, Globe is able to reduce downtime and restore connectivity faster.
Strengthening operational readiness
“Our priority is to ensure that our network remains available, especially during challenging conditions when people depend on it the most,” said Cris Crisostomo, Globe’s Vice President for Network Operations & Assurance. “We have strengthened our operational readiness so we can sustain services longer and respond more quickly when disruptions happen.”
Globe’s field engineers play a central role in executing these efforts. Teams are deployed across the country to monitor network performance, secure critical infrastructure, and carry out restoration work under demanding conditions.
“Daghan sa mga komunidad nagkinahanglan sa serbisyo sa Globe, mao importante andam, madasigon ug isog ang atong mga field engineers para respondehan dayon ang mga panginahanglan sa katawhan [There are many communities that need Globe’s services, so it is important that our field engineers are ready, dedicated, and courageous in responding quickly to the demands of the people], ” Mark Jurial of Globe Regional Operations in Mindanao said. “We prepare ahead of time so we can respond immediately and minimize the impact on the communities we serve.”
In addition to strengthening its on-the-ground response, Globe continues to refine its network operations through improved planning and coordination. This includes working closely with partners such as the Department of Energy, National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR), and the Department of Information and Communications Technology, to ensure the timely availability of resources needed to support continuous operations during disruptions.
Through these efforts, Globe is helping ensure that customers can stay connected even during extended brownouts, with faster recovery times and fewer service interruptions. These improvements are especially critical in times of crisis, when reliable connectivity supports not only communication but also access to essential services and information.
As disruptions continue to evolve, Globe remains focused on enhancing its network resilience, ensuring that connectivity remains dependable for Filipinos, especially in times when it matters most.
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