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Globe Mobilizes Network Teams, Sets Relief Efforts After Davao Oriental Earthquake

by Contributor
written by Contributor

Globe has mobilized its emergency response teams following the magnitude 7.6 earthquake that struck offshore Davao Oriental on October 10. The strong tremor, followed by multiple aftershocks, was felt across the Davao Region and neighboring provinces, prompting precautionary evacuations and temporary suspension of operations in several establishments.

Globe is closely coordinating with local government units (LGUs) and partner organizations to assess the impact of the quake and ensure continued connectivity and assistance for affected communities. Relief operations are set to take place on Monday, October 13, in Manay, Davao Oriental, in coordination with the Ayala Foundation Inc. (AFI).

“Our immediate priority is to keep people connected and informed as response efforts continue. We are working closely with local authorities to monitor the situation and provide network support where it’s needed most,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer, Globe.

Globe services were affected across 8 provinces. All affected municipalities have since been fully restored, with network restoration reaching 100% in Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao Oriental, and Lanao del Sur, and 96.55% in Davao City.

Globe assures customers that it will continue to monitor the situation and deploy technical teams as needed to sustain connectivity in all affected areas. Residents are advised to stay alert, follow official advisories from PHIVOLCS and local authorities, and prioritize their safety.

More updates will be provided as the situation develops. Visit the GlobeICON social media pages for the latest information.

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VP Sara visits earthquake and fire victims in Davao Region

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

VICE PRESIDENT Sara Z. Duterte on Saturday personally visited families affected by recent calamities in the Davao Region, extending solidarity and support to those impacted by both the earthquake in Davao Oriental and the fire in Davao City.

At around 10 a.m., the vice president attended a wake visit in Mati City to console the bereaved family of one of the victims of the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the province last Friday.

She also met with local residents who continue to recover from the tremor, expressing her commitment to help communities rebuild their lives.

By 11 a.m., VP Duterte proceeded to the residence of Carmen Go Enrique in Mati City, where she discussed ongoing relief operations and rehabilitation efforts with local officials and partners.

Later in the afternoon, at around 4 p.m., the vice president traveled to Davao City to visit families who recently lost their homes in a fire.

Duterte reaffirmed the Office of the Vice President’s commitment, through its Davao Satellite Office, to provide timely assistance to disaster-stricken areas. She also emphasized the importance of community resilience and cooperation during times of crisis.

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Dizon vows probe into delayed Tuganay Bridge, Davao projects 

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

DEPARTMENT of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered an immediate investigation into several long-delayed and multi-million-peso infrastructure projects across the Davao Region, explicitly stating that the core issue plaguing the agency is “systemic corruption from top to bottom.”

In a press conference with Davao media on Sept. 25, 2025, at the DPWH Engineering Office in Panacan, Secretary Dizon signaled a broad audit of regional projects by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI).

 He specifically demanded details for the P516 million Tuganay Bridge in Carmen, Davao del Norte, a project notorious for its prolonged delays and public complaints.

“Send me the details of Tuganay Bridge… We will look into it,” Dizon told DPWH XI director Juby B. Cordon.

The secretary also addressed the maligned Ma-a Flyover, which began construction in April 2022.

 “Many are complaining why it’s so delayed, it has taken a long time, so I want to understand why it’s delayed,” Dizon said, promising a follow-up visit due to the sheer volume of projects in Davao.

Flood control projects also targeted

Accountability will also be sought for ongoing flood control measures in the region. 

Dizon requested urgent documentation on flood control projects in Mawab, Davao de Oro, and Nabunturan, stating he and the Regional Director would visit the sites immediately.

When questioned about a stalled P900-million flood control project in Laverna, RD Cordon attributed the delay to protracted negotiations over right-of-way issues, which she claimed were only recently settled after years of negotiation.

Despite the right-of-way explanations, Dizon made it clear that bureaucratic issues often mask deeper problems. 

“But more than the right-of-way problem, what really needs to be cleaned up here is the systemic corruption from top to bottom here in the DPWH,” he asserted, warning that all reports will be followed up, and “no one will escape” accountability.

Photo courtesy of The Mindanao Newscaster (TMN)

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DSWD XI expands 4Ps digital financial inclusion initiative in Davao Region

by Gio Tanudtanud
written by Gio Tanudtanud

THE DEPARTMENT of Social Welfare XI (DSWD) strengthens its Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) through the ongoing ‘e-Panalo ang Kinabukasan’ to support beneficiaries in the region with digital financial enhancements and mobile phone literacy.

DSWD XI family development session focal Diana Mejorada said 150 mobile phones had been distributed in Davao Region, with a recent ceremonial distribution in Tagum City last Sept 1,3 during the phase one implementation.

The phones were donated by the agency’s key partner Globe Telecom.

“This is intended to teach our beneficiaries the importance of financial management. So, tudloan sila how to save, how to budget, how to avoid scams,” she said during the Kapehan sa Dabaw on Sept 22.

The initiative began last 2019 and was pilot-tested nationwide in 2024, benefiting 32,000 4Ps households who are at the level one of survival and well-being residing in the geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).

This is also aligned with Republic Act 11310, an Act of Institutionalizing the 4Ps, and the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion.

Presently, phase one has reached around 1,200 beneficiaries in the Philippines. Additionally, a total of 1,040 had shifted to e-wallet (GCash).

Eligible beneficiaries are given mobile phones for transactions from cash-based payouts to digital financial platforms.

The current financial service providers participating in e-Panalo are Landbank Piso Plus, GCash, and Maya.

As of Aug 2025, Region XI has 225,679 4Ps households.

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Business

PSA XI:August inflation declines

by Nova Mae Francas
written by Nova Mae Francas

THE PRICES of goods and services in Davao Region recorded a slower decline with a -0.1% in August, the Philippine Statistics Authority XI reported on Wednesday.

PSA XI OIC Baby Jean P. Alid said the average inflation of the Davao region from January to August 2025 was at 0.5%.

She added that the inflation rate increase in August, compared to July, which recorded -0.4%, was attributed to the slow decline in the prices of transport at -0.5%.

The main contributors to the increase in the inflation for transport were the slower price decline in gasoline, with negative 4.3% inflation, passenger transport by sea and inland waterway with 39.3% inflation, and diesel with 0.9% inflation.

Also, PSA reported a slower price decline in food and non-alcoholic beverages with a negative 2.1% inflation.

The contributors to the slower decline in prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages were vegetables, tubers, plantains, and cooking bananas, with 1.8% inflation, and eggplant.

The fish and other seafood increased from 3.5% in July to 6.0% in August, particularly Matambaka.

Meanwhile, housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels recorded a -0.4% inflation, with electricity having a -7.6% inflation, housing rental with 1.4% inflation, and wood fuel with 3.1% inflation.

The top five contributors to the August inflation were rice, corn, electricity, tomatoes (fresh or chilled), and gasoline.

On the other hand, items under major commodity groups that recorded lower inflation were clothing and footwear from 2.4% in July to 2.3% in August; furnishings, household equipment, and routine household maintenance at 3.1% in Aug from 3.4% in July; recreation, sport, and culture from 4.9% to 4.3%

Education services recorded the largest decrease in inflation, from 10.4% in July to 8.1% in August.

On the other hand, the inflation rate for alcoholic beverages and tobacco, information and communication, and the financial services retained with 4.2, 1.1 and zero inflation, respectively.

Food groups that skyrocketed inflation from July to August include fish and other seafoods from 3.5% to 6.0%; oils and fats from 17.4% to 20.2% and sugar, confectionery, and desserts from 0.1% to 0.3%

Meat and others; milk, dairy products and eggs; and fruits and nuts have lower inflation, while flour, bread, ready-made food, and other products remained constant.

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Below par

by Nova Mae Francas
written by Nova Mae Francas
  • Davao Region population growth lags behind national average

DAVAO Region’s total population as of July 1, 2024, has reached 5,389,422, as Southern Mindanao recorded a slower growth than the national average, according to the 2024 Census of Population (2024 POPCEN). 

The total population of Region XI accounted for about 4.8% of the Philippine population in 2024, and ranked seventh among the country’s 18 regions in terms of population size. 

The 2024 total population was higher by 145,886 compared to its population of 5,243,536 on May 1, 2020. 

It increased by 0.66% on average annually from 2020 to 2024, which is lower than the Philippine growth rate from 2015 to 2020, which was at 1.46%.

For comparison, the population in 2010 was 4,468,563, and the 2015 population was recorded at 4,893,318. 

Davao City topped the highest population with 1.85 million.

Meanwhile, of the five provinces, Davao del Norte had the biggest population in 2024 with 1.14 million, followed by Davao de Oro with 784,000; Davao del Sur with 705,000;  Davao Oriental with 590,000; and Davao Occidental had the smallest population with 317,159.

Davao del Sur, on the other hand, was the fastest-growing province in the region, with  an average annual population growth rate (PGR) of 0.86% from 

2020 to 2024. In 2020, the province posted a population of 680,000.

It is followed by Davao Oriental with a PGR of 0.56%, Davao de Oro (0.50%), Davao del Norte (0.40%), and Davao Occidental posted the lowest provincial PGR of 0.03%.

The largest city/municipality in terms of population size is Tagum City in Davao del Norte with 300,042 persons, followed by Panabo City in Davao del Norte with 211,242 persons, and Digos City in Davao del Sur with 192,063 persons.

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Business

Park Inn by Radisson Davao Recognized as the First DOT-Accredited Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment

by Contributor
written by Contributor

Davao City – Park Inn by Radisson Davao is proud to announce its recent recognition by the Department of Tourism (DOT) as the first Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment in the Davao Region. This milestone underscores the hotel’s strong commitment to inclusive hospitality and culturally sensitive service.

The recognition was awarded in accordance with DOT Memorandum Circular 2024-003, which outlines the amended guidelines for Muslim-friendly accommodation establishments. This distinction is granted to DOT-accredited properties that meet clearly defined standards—ranging from religious considerations to dietary accommodations.

These measures include providing prayer mats, installing Qibla direction markers, placing Qur’ans in guest rooms, and offering flexible meal options upon request—such as strictly no-pork or other Muslim-friendly alternatives. The hotel also maintains a dedicated non-pork station at its daily breakfast buffet and ensures that team members are trained in culturally respectful service.

Muslim team members within the kitchen and food & beverage service teams further strengthen this commitment. Their presence fosters greater cultural awareness and attentiveness to guest needs, often providing an added level of reassurance to Muslim diners. Guests can also interact with servers in familiar dialects, creating a friendlier, more welcoming environment that enhances the overall comfort of their stay.

On May 30, the official certificate was awarded by DOT Region XI Regional Director Tanya Rabat-Tan to the hotel, with General Manager Sven Toune, Director of Sales and Marketing Liza Gamo, and Front Office Muslim representative Razul Gregorio receiving it on behalf of the team.

Further demonstrating its advocacy for inclusive hospitality, Park Inn by Radisson Davao also took part in the Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Expo 2025 last June 18-20, 2025 as one of the patron sponsors and exhibitors.

The event concluded with the Halal Friendly Culinary Olympics, where the hotel’s Executive Sous Chef, Chef Vance Bolivar, showcased his creative rendition of Tiyula Itum through the Tiyula Itum Steak Medallion—a modern interpretation of the traditional Tausug dish. Typically served as a soup, Chef Vance reimagined it as a deconstructed plate by searing a tender cut of beef tenderloin and finishing it with a rich, dark sauce made from charred coconut and spices. The dish highlighted authentic flavors while demonstrating refined culinary techniques and elegant presentation.

Chef Vance drew inspiration from Chef Aira, a member of his culinary team who is Tausug, infusing the dish with authentic cultural roots. The entry earned 2nd place, underscoring the team’s culinary creativity, cultural respect, and growing expertise in Muslim-friendly food preparation.

The Department of Tourism Region XI commended the hotel for setting a standard in the local hospitality industry and for its pivotal role in making the Davao region a more accessible destination for travelers.

Ultimately, this recognition reaffirms Park Inn by Radisson Davao’s position as one of the trailblazers in inclusive hospitality, inspiring other establishments to follow suit. After all, building a more welcoming and culturally considerate tourism landscape is not just good practice—it is good hospitality.

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White area operations weaken in Davao Region, shift to Northern Mindanao, says former rebel leader

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

WHILE “white area” operations, referring to legal fronts and political movements linked to communist insurgents, persist in the Davao Region, their influence has significantly diminished, and their strategic center has shifted to Cagayan de Oro City. 

This was the assessment of Jam Saguino, a former high-ranking rebel leader and now a peace advocate, of Kalinaw Davao de Oro in the Davao Peace and Security press conference on Wednesday, June 2, 2025.

Saguino confirmed the continued presence of these groups across the broader Davao Region but stressed they are “not as strong as before” compared to previous years. 

She noted that many of these efforts now originate from Metro Manila, citing examples from the National Capital Region, extending to Davao City, primarily targeting youth and students.

However, Saguino clarified that the Davao Region itself “no longer has the capacity to operate” militarily, as the last remnants of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee’s (SMRC) armed component were reportedly arrested in Bunawan. 

Despite the persistence of white areas and front organizations, he said they are “not considered a significant threat” by former rebels like himself.

He revealed that no new recruits have been monitored from previously identified strongholds, such as the schools mentioned, but TIMES will not reveal the names of these institutions.

“For us, it’s okay to have progressive groups, as long as they don’t take up arms in the mountains,” he added.

Saguino dismissed their current influence as a major threat, remarking on the small numbers typically seen in their rallies. 

He claimed these groups are struggling to recruit from communities, even with existing funding, primarily because the SMRC is no longer active locally.

 She also noted that other KOMID (Komite Mindanao) from different regions are now “adopting” them.

Providing a key insight into the evolving strategy of these groups, Saguino stated that based on classified information, the “center of political power” for white area operations in Mindanao has now shifted to Cagayan de Oro City. 

“This is why most of the white area efforts… just recently, they had a resumption of negotiations last week held in Cagayan de Oro City, where groups from NCR, Manila, and Cebu convened for the resumption of peace talks,” she explained.

She concluded by reiterating her assessment: “For us, the presence of front organizations here in Davao is no longer a significant threat.”

Photo courtesy of Rhoda Grace B Saron 

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