BY ALEX ALAGON
DAVAO’S traffic problem is multifaceted, but the biggest and fastest solution is not more buses or wider roads — it is the strict enforcement of existing laws.
Be strict on jaywalking. The law is not anti-poor; it exists for the safety of both pedestrians and drivers. People using mobile devices while crossing roads create dangerous distractions that put lives at risk.
Yellow loading and unloading zones must also be properly enforced. Jeepneys and taxis that stop abruptly without proper turn signals, or load and unload outside designated areas, create traffic bottlenecks and increase the likelihood of accidents, causing even greater delays. Again, this is not anti-poor — it is the law.
Meter maids are assigned downtown to collect parking fees, yet many fail to issue tickets or reprimand violators. Double parking has become normalized under the excuse of “sandali lang” or “just a minute.”
Along San Pedro and Claveria Streets, vehicles remain parked for hours with hazard lights flashing, reducing already limited road space and worsening congestion.
E-trikes and pedicabs continue to use major thoroughfares and intersections despite posing serious risks. Many operate without proper markings, licenses, or road safety training. Yet when apprehended or involved in accidents, enforcement is often dismissed as being “anti-poor.”
Areas such as Bucana Trading remain heavily congested because of illegal roadside parking by e-trikes on both sides of the road.
Many drivers are not even from Davao City, and some allegedly use religious affiliations or group pressure to intimidate authorities and avoid enforcement.
This problem is compounded by businesses that extend beyond their property lines and occupy sidewalks, forcing pedestrians onto already congested streets.
According to the TomTom Traffic Index, Davao City consistently ranks among the most congested urban centers in the Philippines, with commuters losing dozens of hours each year stuck in traffic.
The economic cost is enormous: lost productivity, wasted fuel, delayed emergency response times, and increased pollution.Responsibility ultimately falls on the PNP, CTTMO, and barangay officials to enforce the law.
Unfortunately, enforcement often stalls because agencies wait for barangay requests, while barangays hesitate out of fear of losing votes.
Votes that were supposed to be built on promises of change and betterment — not entitlement.
At its core, this issue comes down to discipline.Is “Davao Discipline” still real? Or does it only appear during slogans, campaigns, and special occasions?
A ROUTINE emergency transport turned into a life-changing miracle for the Bunawan Police on Thursday evening after a pregnant woman gave birth to a healthy baby boy right inside the patrol car.
Kyriejoy S. Ceniza, 32, a resident of Prk. 10-B Jerah, Bunawan, went into active labor at approximately 6np.m.on Thursday, May 7.
Bunawan Police Station personnel quickly loaded Ceniza into their mobile patrol unit to rush her to the nearest hospital.
However, before the patrol car could reach the medical facility, Ceniza’s labor progressed rapidly.
With the assistance of the patrol crew, led by PSSG Region Achacoso with PSSg Dominic James Jamera, PSSA Jovanie Egot, police auxillary, Ceniza delivered her son while the vehicle was in transit.
The newborn and his mother were eventually turned over to medical professionals for post-natal care.
Davao City Police Office (DCPO) spokesperson Captain Hazel Caballero confirmed the incident, noting that both the mother and the newborn are safe and in good health.
THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) asserted that its anti-illegal drug operations remain strictly “within the bounds of the law” following a controversial arrest in Marilog District.
City director Col. Peter Bauzon Madria issued a statement addressing public “sentiments” circulating on social media regarding a recent operation conducted by Police Station 12 (Marilog).
While acknowledging the public’s right to express opinions online, Madria emphasized that police protocols were strictly followed.
To counter allegations of irregularities, the DCPO confirmed that a formal criminal case for the sale of illegal drugs (Section 5, R.A. 9165) was filed before the Office of the City Prosecutor on May 7, 2026.
The police chief said the suspect tested positive for Methamphetamine hydrochloride (Shabu) under Chemistry Report No. D-304-26-RFU11.
“The filing of the case clearly manifests that the operation was supported by evidence and subjected to proper legal procedures,” Madria stated.
Madria said the police are working closely with barangay officials to monitor individuals who previously surrendered but are suspected of returning to the drug trade.
“The DCPO remains firm and unwavering. Anyone caught violating the law, regardless of social status, occupation, or background, will be held accountable,” he added.
The police leadership reiterated that the intensified campaign is designed to protect “vulnerable individuals” and the youth from the long-term harmful effects of the drug trade, calling for continued community cooperation to keep Davao City “drug-resistant.”
THIS SUMMER, Taco Bell is switching things up with the launch of Bell Refreshers, a vibrant new drink lineup made for those hot days and bold cravings.
Light, fruity, and fizzy, each drink is designed to pair perfectly with your Taco Bell favorites or even stand out on their own as a refreshing treat, making every moment more flavorful!
Bell Refreshers come in two bright variants, each offering a choice between a fizzy 7Up base or Taco Bell’s house blend iced tea.
The Peach Mango Fizz blends sweet peach and ripe mango flavors into a bubbly, easy to sip drink that feels instantly uplifting.
Meanwhile, the Passion Fruit Fizz delivers a tangy sweet profile with a tropical twist, offering a refreshingly bold flavor that cuts through the heat!
Both variants are available for P149, making them an accessible add-on to any meal or a simple way to cool down.
Get these together with your other favorites from Taco Bell by visiting your nearest store for dine-in and take-out orders, or you can also order for delivery via the 8911-1111 hotline, Taco Bell Philippines’ official website, or through official delivery partners Grabfood, foodpanda, and Pickaroo (prices may vary)!
Top choice of Gen Z. BDO Life ranks No. 1 in Insurance Consideration at the 2026 Synergy–YouGov Awards.
Gen Zs are taking a fresh approach to securing their future. While many prioritize side hustles and personal goals, they also value authenticity and see the importance of financial protection early on.
Recognizing this shift, BDO Life has emerged as Gen Z’s top choice for their next purchase, earning the No. 1 spot in Consideration in the insurance sector at the 2026 Synergy-YouGov Awards. This citation comes from YouGov BrandIndex’s 2025 nationwide consumer tracking results, based on daily brand health tracking among more than 3,000 Gen Z respondents.
“BDO Life is expanding its reach to support a broader range of breadwinners, including Gen Z. We appreciate how they value life insurance as a meaningful way to plan ahead and secure their future. This milestone inspires us to keep growing alongside the evolving needs of future generations,” shares Shirlyn T. Book, BDO Life VP and Marketing Head during the awards ceremony. The award underscores BDO Life’s deepening relevance among younger generations who consider insurance not just a safety net, but as their Plan B in building a secure future.
Mother’s Day in the Philippines is a special time to thank mothers for the love, care, and strength they show every day in holding Filipino families together. This 2026, Jollibee celebrates mothers nationwide through special Mother’s Day offerings available in stores and on digital platforms, making it easier for families to show appreciation for moms in simple and meaningful ways.
“At Jollibee, we’ve always believed that the most meaningful moments happen when families come together, and mothers are often at the heart of those moments,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president of marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “Through #JollibeeMOMens, we hope to celebrate and thank Filipino moms for the countless ways they make family life more meaningful, from the little everyday gestures to the moments that bring everyone together. It’s our simple way of honoring the joy and warmth they create for their families every day.”
From May 8 to 10, families can mark Mother’s Day across all Jollibee stores nationwide by getting the Mother’s Day Feast Bundle that includes Chickenjoy, rice, sides, and drinks, with a free Jolly Spaghetti Solo. This offering is available through dine-in, takeout, drive-thru, and delivery.
A Jollibee App exclusive offer will also run from May 9 to 10, giving families ₱100 off for a minimum purchase of ₱800 for at-home celebrations.
Online, #JollibeeMOMents will feature real family stories on Facebook from May 8 to 10, followed by a nationwide X/Twitter Party on May 10 that brings families together in a shared digital tribute to mothers.
Across stores and digital spaces, #JollibeeMOMents becomes a shared expression of gratitude, where Filipino families mark Mother’s Day by choosing to come together in the moments that matter most.
Cebu Pacific is making Mother’s Day extra special this year as it brings back its signature Piso sale, giving every Juan more opportunities to thank and show their love to their moms and mother figures through meaningful travel experiences.
From May 8 to 15, 2026, travelers may book their flights to all CEB domestic and international destinations on sale for as low as PHP 1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. The travel period will be from October 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027, giving families the perfect opportunity to plan meaningful trips and book ahead for the peak travel season.
CEB passengers looking to gift their moms with a well-deserved escape can explore Tacloban’s cultural and historical landmarks, enjoy the natural wonders and island experiences of Puerto Princesa, go on a food trip in Bacolod, seek the outdoor adventures of Cagayan De Oro, or unwind by the white sand beaches of Boracay.
With the airline’s wide domestic network, travelers can conveniently fly through its major hubs in Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo. These gateways provide passengers with more seamless options to explore and discover new experiences across the Philippines.
CEB also offers flights to international destinations such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, perfect for those who want to treat their moms to an overseas vacation. From vibrant city adventures to culinary discoveries and shopping experiences, these destinations offer something special that moms will surely enjoy.
CEB operates in 35 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
CEB offers various payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets, to book flights and buy add-ons. Book your flights now at www.cebupacificair.com and stay tuned for more exciting partnerships and offers designed to make every journey even more rewarding.
BRIGADIER General Marion T. Angcao, the veteran commander credited with maintaining Davao City’s insurgency-free status, assumes command of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID) on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
The change of command ceremony is scheduled for 9 a.m. at the 4ID headquarters in Camp Evangelista.
Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete will preside over the transition as the guest of honor and speaker, according to Lt. Col. Jelyn Fallar, 4ID Public Affairs Office chief in a message to TIMES on Friday.
Angcao takes over the leadership of the Diamond Division from Brig. Gen. Seigfred Tubalado. Tubalado, the commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, had been serving as the acting division chief following the retirement of Maj. Gen. Michele Anayron Jr. on April 28, 2026.
The appointment of Angcao is effective as of May 1, 2026, marking a swift transition from his most recent high-level post as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations (G3) of the Philippine Army at Fort Bonifacio.Angcao’s rise to a division command follows a distinguished career heavily rooted in the Davao Region.
His notable previous assignments included being appointed as G3, Philippine Army; 1003rd Infantry Brigade commander; acting chief of staff of the Presidential Security Group (PSG); and 73rd Infantry Battalion commander from 2017 to 2019, where he led successful counter-insurgency operations in Davao del Sur and Davao Occidental.
A member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Maalab” Class of 1993, Angcao is recognized as one of the Army’s top strategists.
He holds a Master’s degree in Development and Security from the Development Academy of the Philippines and a Master of Arts in Strategic Security Studies from the National Defense University in Washington DC, where he graduated in 2020.
His assumption of the 4ID comes at a critical time as the military continues to shift its focus from internal security to territorial defense, while simultaneously maintaining the gains of peace in Northern Mindanao and Caraga.
THE 10TH Infantry “Agila” Division is going high-tech to bridge the communication gap in Mindanao’s most rugged terrains.
Major General Alvin Luzon, 10ID commander, led the formal signing of a partnership with the University of Mindanao (UM) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST XI) on May 6, 2026.
The collaboration centers on Project AgilaCom, an advanced integrated communications system designed to ensure soldiers never lose contact, even in the most geographically isolated and conflict-prone areas.
Unlike standard radio systems, Project AgilaCom features a single platform that connects different communication channels, live GPS tracking to monitor troop movements with precision, voice capabilities powered by WebRTC and military-grade mutual Transport Layer Security (mTLS) to prevent enemy interception.
The system is the brainchild of the University of Mindanao’s research team, funded by the DOST-PCIEERD Research and Development Initiative, and fine-tuned through the operational expertise of the 10th Signal (Masaligan) Battalion.
During the signing at the UM Matina Campus, University president Dr. Guillermo Torres Jr. and VP for Research Maria Linda Arquiza emphasized that academia has a vital role in national security.
By lending their technical expertise, the university is helping create home-grown solutions for the Philippine Army.Major General Luzon hailed the project as a “best practice” for the division, noting that modern warfare is as much about data as it is about boots on the ground.
“Project AgilaCom demonstrates the importance of collaboration between the military, academia, and government agencies,” Maj. Gen. Luzon said. “We are developing mission-oriented technologies that will directly enhance the operational readiness and situational awareness of our troops.”
The initiative aligns with the broader Philippine Army modernization program. By involving the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT XI), the project ensures that the technology is not only secure but also compatible with national digital infrastructure.
