Daily Archives

October 27, 2026

Gonato assumes command of 89th Infantry Battalion in Santo Tomas

by Rhoda Grace Saron October 27, 2026

written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE 10TH Infantry Division installed a new commander for the 89th Infantry Battalion during a change-of-command ceremony at its headquarters in Barangay New Visayas on Monday, Oct. 26.

10ID commander MGEN Alvin Luzon presided over the ceremony, formally installing LTCOL Omar Wynn Gonato as the new commanding officer, succeeding LTCOL Antonio Bulao.

During his address, Luzon emphasized the 89IB’s strategic role as one of the division’s designated territorial defense operations battalions, directing the unit to intensify mission-oriented training for external defense contingencies while maintaining readiness for internal security and disaster response operations.

“Preserve the gains, build on the strengths, and prepare the battalion for the challenges ahead,” Luzon told the incoming leadership and troops.

Luzon commended Bulao for sustaining peace and security gains in Southern Bukidnon, strengthening community relations, and improving troop welfare during his tenure. Bulao was awarded the military merit medal and a plaque of recognition for his service.

According to the 10ID, the leadership transition marks part of the division’s ongoing preparations to organize its TDO Brigade and bolster unit readiness across its area of responsibility.

The event was attended by 1003rd Infantry Brigade commander BGEN Christopher Diaz, military officers, and local government stakeholders.

October 27, 2026 0 comments

News

DCPO inspects major Davao cemeteries, tightens security ahead of Undas 2026

by Rhoda Grace Saron October 27, 2026

written by Rhoda Grace Saron

OFFICIALS from the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) conducted security assessments and coordination visits across all major cemeteries on Monday, Oct. 26, ahead of the upcoming Undas 2026 observance.

DCPO director PCOL Peter B. Madria led the inspection, joined by Police Station 16 (Ma-a) commander PMAJ Philip Dave Uddin and Police Station 2 (San Pedro) deputy commander PLT Mark Ferd Barte.

The proactive inspections aimed to review crowd control plans, verify entry and exit points, and establish security posts inside and around public and private burial grounds before the influx of visitors for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

Police officials stated that early coordination with cemetery managers and local barangay security units is critical to maintaining peace and order during the solemn annual tradition.

The DCPO assured the public that police presence will be sustained across all cemetery sites, transport terminals, and major thoroughfares throughout the week.

October 27, 2026 0 comments

News

DCPO clears 2 Davao schools after bomb threats, launches cybercrime probe

by Rhoda Grace Saron October 27, 2026

written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) cleared two schools on Monday, Oct. 26, after bomb threats received over the weekend turned out to be negative for explosives.

In an official statement, DCPO director PCOL Peter B. Madria assured the public that police teams responded immediately following reports of threats sent to the two campuses on Oct. 25 and 26.

Units from the explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) and K9 teams conducted sweep operations and security inspections at both school premises before declaring them clear and safe for normal operations.

Meanwhile, the Davao City Police Cybercrime Response Team (DCPCRT) has launched an investigation to trace the digital footprint and identify the individuals behind the messages.

Madria warned that perpetrators will face criminal prosecution, stressing that the police force maintains zero tolerance for bomb threats regardless of whether they were intended as pranks.

“Such acts endanger public safety, cause unnecessary alarm, disrupt school operations, and divert critical police resources,” the DCPO director stated, noting that bomb threats are punishable under Presidential Decree No. 1727, which penalizes the malicious dissemination of false information concerning bombs or explosives.

Law enforcement authorities urged Davaoeños to remain calm, avoid sharing unverified posts on social media, and rely solely on official announcements from legitimate authorities.

October 27, 2026 0 comments

News

Davao police rescue minor following online high school threat in Catalunan Grande

by Rhoda Grace Saron October 27, 2026

written by Rhoda Grace Saron

OPERATIVES of the Talomo Police Station (PS3) rescued a minor involved in an online threat directed at a high school student in Barangay Catalunan Grande, police reported Tuesday, Oct. 27.

Acting station commander PMAJ Sheryl Bautista said police officers responded immediately after learning of a security threat circulating on social media to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and school staff.

After the operation, officers turned the minor over to local social welfare officers and other authorities for counseling, evaluation, and appropriate disposition, in coordination with school administrators and the minor’s parents.

Bautista reassured the public that student safety remains a top priority for PS3 while warning against creating or sharing false threats online.

“Making or spreading false threats and scares online causes unnecessary public panic and carries serious legal consequences,” police warned.

Law enforcement authorities urged the public to report emergencies and security concerns directly through the 911 hotline.

October 27, 2026 0 comments

Health

When Digestive Discomfort Becomes More Than Just Stress

by Contributor October 27, 2026

written by Contributor

FOR MANY working adults, digestive discomfort is often attributed to stress, irregular meals, or demanding schedules. Bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits may seem like minor inconveniences, but persistent symptoms can sometimes indicate an underlying digestive condition.

Dr Benjamin Yip, a gastroenterologist at Alpha Digestive & Liver Centre in Singapore, highlights the importance of understanding the different causes of digestive symptoms rather than assuming they are simply stress-related.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: When the Gut Becomes Sensitive

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of gut-brain interaction that affects bowel function without necessarily producing visible structural abnormalities during routine examinations.

Individuals with IBS may experience recurring abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or alternating bowel habits. Symptoms can fluctuate and may become more noticeable during stressful periods.

Although stress can aggravate IBS, it is not necessarily the underlying cause. Other factors, including gut sensitivity, dietary triggers and changes in intestinal movement, may contribute.

The Connection Between Stress and Digestion

The digestive system communicates closely with the brain through what is known as the gut-brain axis.

Periods of emotional stress may influence bowel movements, digestive sensitivity, and appetite. Some individuals experience an unsettled stomach, bowel urgency, or abdominal discomfort during particularly demanding periods.

However, attributing persistent digestive symptoms entirely to stress may overlook other medical conditions requiring assessment.

Acid Reflux: Not Always a Burning Sensation

Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents flow backwards into the oesophagus, sometimes causing heartburn, a sour taste or discomfort after meals.

Late-night eating, large meals, and lying down shortly after eating may aggravate symptoms in susceptible individuals.

Some people also experience throat irritation, persistent coughing, or hoarseness without typical heartburn. These symptoms can have several causes and should not automatically be attributed to reflux.

H. pylori: An Infection Worth Understanding

Another digestive concern is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium that infects the stomach lining.

Many infected individuals experience no symptoms, while others may develop upper abdominal discomfort, nausea, or indigestion. Persistent infection can cause chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers and is associated with an increased risk of stomach cancer.

Medical testing can identify the infection, allowing appropriate treatment when indicated.

Knowing When to Seek Medical Assessment

While occasional digestive discomfort is common, symptoms that persist, worsen, or interfere with daily activities warrant medical attention.

Warning signs such as unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, gastrointestinal bleeding, or persistent vomiting require timely evaluation.

Understanding whether symptoms arise from functional digestive disorders, reflux, infection, or other conditions is an important part of determining appropriate management.

For Dr Yip, the central clinical consideration is recognizing that similar digestive symptoms may have different underlying causes, making individual assessment important.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is intended for general education and awareness purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Individual symptoms and medical conditions may vary. Please consult a licensed medical practitioner for appropriate assessment. Severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, or other acute concerning symptoms require urgent medical attention.

For more information about Dr Benjamin Yip and his medical practice, visit https://alphagastro.sg/ or contact Beyond Medical Assistance (Philippines) via WhatsApp at (63) 956 0655 717

October 27, 2026 0 comments

Community

Aboitiz scholarship opens doors for a truck driver’s son

by Contributor October 27, 2026

written by Contributor

Former Aboitiz scholar John Eric Dagos has come a long way from his days as a struggling college student, rising through the ranks to become a UnionBank branch manager.

Investing in education and developing future leaders have long been part of the Aboitiz Group’s DNA. Through Aboitiz Foundation’s Future Leaders pillar, Aboitiz Group continues to provide scholarships and learning opportunities that help young Filipinos reach their potential and build better futures.

One testament to this commitment is John Eric Dagos, a truck driver’s son whose life changed after a simple Google search led him to an Aboitiz college scholarship, opening doors from being a struggling college student to becoming a UnionBank branch manager.

The eldest of three children, Eric grew up in a household where money was tight. Determined not to add to his parents’ financial burden, he worked as a student assistant and tutor while pursuing his education at Don Bosco College.

When financial difficulties threatened to derail his studies, Eric turned to Google in search of a scholarship. “The Aboitiz scholarship was the first result that came up. I applied, and fortunately, I got in,” he recalled.

With financial assistance and a monthly allowance from the Aboitiz scholarship program, Eric could finally focus on his studies. But the scholarship offered more than financial relief. It introduced him to the people, businesses, and opportunities that would eventually shape his career.

Joining the Aboitiz Future Leaders Business Summit in Cebu gave John Eric Dagos (seated, extreme right) and other scholars the chance to gain valuable leadership insights from Aboitiz Group executives

At the Aboitiz Future Leaders Business Summit in Cebu, Eric worked with fellow scholars on real-world business and sustainability challenges, guided by Aboitiz executives. An internship at Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) gave him firsthand experience in corporate operations and a glimpse of the professional world.

When Eric graduated at the top of his class in 2015, his exposure to the Aboitiz Group had already influenced what he wanted to do next. With a background in information technology, he pursued a career in UnionBank, starting as a junior branch ambassador handling over the counter transactions. He worked his way up the ranks, eventually becoming the branch manager of UnionBank’s branch along 32nd Street in Bonifacio Global City.

“Working at UnionBank is a dream come true. What makes it more meaningful is that the support and trust I received as an Aboitiz scholar are still there. The bank also has a culture that inspires you to grow and give your best,” he said.

John Eric Dagos obtained his IT degree from Don Bosco College in 2015 through an Aboitiz scholarship, finishing at the top of his class

Eric’s journey reflects the broader purpose of the Aboitiz Future Leaders Scholarship Program, which has supported more than 1,200 students since 2000. This year, nearly 300 scholars are part of the program, which combines financial assistance with leadership development, internships, mentoring, and opportunities for personal growth.

For Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Eric’s story reflects how access to education can transform lives and create opportunities for lasting impact.

“A scholarship is more than an investment in education. It is an investment in a future leader’s potential. When young people like Eric succeed, they are empowered to inspire others, nurture talent and make a lasting difference in the organizations they serve,” Hontiveros-Malvar said.

Drawing on his experience as an Aboitiz scholar, Eric is now paying it forward by mentoring his team at UnionBank, helping his colleagues develop their strengths and grow professionally.

“I’m part of the Aboitiz Group because someone believed in my potential from the time I was a scholar. Now I want to help others discover what they’re capable of and help them succeed,” he said.

October 27, 2026 0 comments

Community Featured

Ayala Land, Crown Pipes sign partnership agreement to decarbonize construction supply chain

by Contributor October 27, 2026

written by Contributor

LEFT TO RIGHT: Anna Gonzales, Corporate Sustainability Head, Ayala Land; Robert Lao, Chief Sustainability Officer, Ayala Land; Derrick Villanueva, President, Crown Pipes; Hans Joseph Perez, Vice President – Sales and Marketing, Crown Pipes

Agreement targets PVC waste recovery, renewable energy and stronger supplier ESG standards

MAKATI, Philippines — Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI) and Crown Asia Chemicals Corporation (Crown Pipes) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to work together to cut carbon emissions, reduce PVC construction waste and raise environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards across the Philippine construction supply chain.

Signed on October 21, the two-year agreement covers a PVC pipe cuttings take-back program, the development of ESG performance criteria for green vendors, the evaluation of renewable energy options for eligible Crown facilities, knowledge sharing and joint reporting on the partnership’s progress.

The collaboration supports ALI’s sustainability commitments, including achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and zero waste to landfill by 2030.

Under the agreement, the companies will explore and pilot programs addressing one of the construction industry’s most challenging problems: emissions from building materials themselves, not just from operating buildings. PVC is one of the materials ALI has identified in its supply chain as material to its carbon footprint.

Beyond reducing emissions from its own operations, ALI is working with its suppliers to address the environmental impact of the materials and services used in its developments. Emissions from purchased goods and services account for the largest share of ALI’s carbon footprint, making supplier engagement a key pillar of its net-zero strategy.

“At Ayala Land, we have set ambitious sustainability goals, including achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and zero waste to landfill by 2030,” said Robert S. Lao, Chief Sustainability Officer of Ayala Land. “While reducing emissions in our own operations is critical, we recognize that achieving these goals requires addressing emissions across our entire supply chain, starting with the most critical materials.”

Crown Asia Chemicals is a manufacturer and supplier of PVC pipes, fittings and other construction materials, and a trusted supplier to ALI developments including Avida Towers Centralis, Patio Madrigal, Nuveo, Greenbelt 1, Arden, The Lattice Parklinks and Gardencourt Residences. It was selected from among ALI’s accredited vendors as a partner for its mature sustainability program.

“We cannot achieve our climate ambitions alone. Our suppliers’ commitment and partnerships like the one we sign today are essential to reducing embodied carbon, advancing circularity, and driving sustainability improvements across the development sector,” Lao added.

Closing the loop on construction waste

Under the PVC Cuttings Take-Back Program, PVC pipe cuttings and scraps from selected ALI projects will be segregated, collected and returned to Crown Asia Chemicals for recycling, reprocessing or repurposing into new products. The program will measure and report PVC waste diverted from landfills, and the parties will explore extending the model to other plastic-based construction materials.

The collaboration also covers the development of ESG performance criteria for green vendors, capacity-building for suppliers, and the evaluation of eligible Crown Asia Chemicals facilities for transition to renewable energy through the Green Energy Option Program.

“For us, this partnership is more than an agreement. It is an opportunity to collaborate, innovate, and turn our shared sustainability commitments into meaningful action. This is the spirit behind CROWN Pipes and our commitment to Ang Tubo na may Puso,” said Derrick P. Villanueva, President of Crown Asia Chemicals Corporation. “We are honored to accept the challenge of becoming a Green Vendor of Ayala.”

The partnership marks another step in Ayala Land’s journey toward a low-carbon, circular-economy approach to construction and real estate development. By combining both companies’ expertise, the collaboration aims to deliver environmental gains and long-term economic value through more efficient use of materials and energy. It also shows how Ayala Land pairs quality with sustainability across its vendor network and helps move the industry toward more responsible and resilient development.

October 27, 2026 0 comments

Business

TransUnion’s 2026 Credit Perception Index Finds Scores Holding or Improving Across All Three Major Island Groups

by Contributor October 27, 2026

written by Contributor

Manila, Philippines – TransUnion (NYSE: TRU), a global information and insights company and the Philippines’ first comprehensive private credit reference agency, today released additional findings from its 2026 Credit Perception Index (CPI), providing insights for the first time on how Filipinos across the country’s three major island groups¹ perceive and engage with credit.

Introduced in 2023, the CPI examines Filipinos’ knowledge, trust, and favorability toward credit and other financial products, including the factors that influence their attitudes, behaviors and financial decisions, with the goal of supporting broader financial inclusion in the Philippines.

The findings show that credit perception held or improved in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, suggesting that broad-based progress is being observed across the country rather than concentrated in specific regions.

The Philippines’ 2026 CPI score, reflecting the general population, rose to 75 out of 100 (+2 points from 2025), the highest since the study began in 2023. Comparing the three island groups, all recorded improved or stable CPI scores in 2026. Mindanao posted the biggest gain, rising to 77 out of 100 (+3 points), while Luzon, including the National Capital Region (NCR), increased to 74 (+1 point) and Visayas remained stable at 75. Mindanao’s improvement was driven by gains across six out of seven score factors*, including product knowledge (+7 points), favorability (+6 points), stigmas (+5 points), product trust (+4 points), as well as credit messaging and reservations (both +3 points). Similar patterns were observed in Luzon and Visayas, where most score factors improved or remained stable. In Luzon, five of seven score factors improved, while in Visayas, softer credit messaging and reservations were offset by gains in product trust and knowledge.

The Philippines’ three major island groups comprise Luzon (including the National Capital Region), Visayas and Mindanao.

“It’s encouraging to see credit perception improved across the country this year. Every island group held or improved its score, which tells us that consumer confidence and knowledge in credit is building broadly — not only in and around the capital. That kind of nationwide progress is a strong and positive signal toward greater financial inclusion,” said Peter Faulhaber, President and CEO of TransUnion Philippines.

Shared Financial Priorities Across Island Groups

Perceived financial situation across island groups broadly reflected the general population, with some regional variation: a larger share in Mindanao identified as lower income (33% vs. 28% of the general population), while more in Visayas placed themselves in the lower-middle bracket (60% vs. 47% of the general population).

Amid a more cautious economic climate in 2026, shaped by elevated prices, Filipinos across all three island groups planned to take a proactive approach to their finances over the next three months. Saving more was the most common planned action in every island group (Luzon: 86%; Visayas: 87%; Mindanao: 86%). Accessing more educational materials to improve their finances ranked second in each (Luzon: 71%; Visayas: 74%; Mindanao: 77%), followed by exploring new digital products and FinTech services (Luzon: 69%; Visayas: 71%; Mindanao: 73%) and using a greater range of financial services and products (Luzon: 63%; Visayas: 66%; Mindanao: 72%).

Intent to use credit, however, was where the island groups diverged. More than half of Filipinos in Mindanao (54%) intended to borrow or use credit for purchases in the months ahead, 11pp above the general population (43%). The figure was 42% in Visayas and 40% in Luzon.

FinTech Use is Widespread, but Product and Learning Preferences Vary by Region

Consistent with the general population (93%), the majority of Filipinos across the three island groups were FinTech users, with Visayas seeing the highest adoption at 96%, followed by Mindanao at 95% and Luzon at 92%. eWallets, digital banks and online payment apps were the three most widely used FinTech products in every island group.

Visayas recorded strong eWallet use at 85%, four percentage points above the general population (81%), while Mindanao showed higher uptake of digital banks at 57%, five points above the general population (52%).

Where Filipinos preferred to learn about financial products followed a similar regional pattern. Social media led in every island group (Luzon 57%, Visayas 69%, Mindanao 64%), with e-learning platforms among the top three everywhere (Luzon 49%, Visayas 52%, Mindanao 50%). The third channel differed by region: banks and financial institutions ranked high in Mindanao (53%), while family and friends completed the top three in Luzon (44%) and Visayas (50%).

From Broad Progress to Inclusive Participation

Two years ago, TransUnion’s Credit Perception Index found Filipinos outside the capital lagging behind in how they viewed credit. This year, the first regional view shows credit perception holding or improving in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao alike. Filipinos in different parts of the country engage with credit, digital tools and financial information in their own ways, and meeting them where they are is how that progress becomes lasting financial inclusion.

“There is no one-size-fits-all approach to advancing financial inclusion. Understanding local needs and behaviors through more granular insights can help stakeholders develop solutions, education initiatives and engagement strategies that resonate best with communities – which is how broad progress becomes genuine, inclusive participation,” said Faulhaber.

In the Philippines, TransUnion works alongside financial institutions, government and industry partners to expand access to financial services and support broader financial inclusion. Its solutions help lenders assess consumers with limited credit histories using alternative sources of information, while initiatives such as the Fraud Industry Council, launched in 2024, strengthen information-sharing and collective action against fraud.

TransUnion’s Credit Perception Index (CPI) is an annual study conducted exclusively in the Philippines that tracks how Filipinos perceive and engage with credit, the drivers and barriers influencing their behavior, and the implications for the broader financial ecosystem. The 2026 study surveyed 1,000 consumers from May 6-26, 2026.

October 27, 2026 0 comments

Community

McDonald’s Philippines Thanks Teachers through Feel-Good Celebrations and Year-Round Programs

by Contributor October 27, 2026

written by Contributor

Manila, Philippines—Teachers play a vital role in shaping the next generation. Through every lesson they prepare and every dream they encourage, teachers shape not only individual futures but also the future of the nation.

Recognizing this, McDonald’s Philippines believes that supporting teachers means more than celebrating them on a special occasion. As part of the nationwide celebration of National Teachers’ Month, McDonald’s Philippines did more than just join the millions of Filipinos who said “thank you” to their teachers—it also enabled meaningful moments of connection, while also implementing initiatives that support schools and their communities.

Supporting teachers starts with supporting their classrooms

To kick off National Teachers Month, McDonald’s Philippines turned over 50 ReClassified chairs to East Central Elementary School in Cagayan de Oro City, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara. Through ReClassified, decommissioned McDonald’s store furniture is transformed into durable, purpose-designed classroom furniture for public schools in need. By giving these materials a new purpose, the initiative helps improve learning spaces while making responsible use of existing resources.

The initiative underscores an important idea: recognizing teachers means not only thanking them for their dedication but also helping address the practical challenges they face and providing resources that support their work.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara (second from left) joins McDonald’s Philippines led by Managing Director Margot Torres (third from left) during the ReClassified turnover activity in Cagayan de Oro City.

Making appreciation part of the everyday

Aside from improving classrooms, teachers deserve moments to pause, recharge, and feel valued amid the demands of their profession. From October 3 to 6, teachers from more than 1,600 schools nationwide received free coffee from the McDonald’s store nearest to them.

That same spirit extended to McDonald’s support for DepEd’s National Teachers’ Month activities from September 5 to October 5. The company shared as many as 8,000 meals with educators attending celebrations and gatherings nationwide and supported various recognition programs for both currently serving and retired teachers, and even outstanding teachers from regions implementing the DepEd Indigenous Peoples Education Program. Ronald McDonald and the Gang also brought fun and entertainment to educators, creating feel-good moments that allowed teachers to relax and share laughter with colleagues and their students, past and present.

Celebrating the people behind every lesson

Through its employee volunteer initiative Good Trip, McDonald’s shared feel-good moments with the teachers of Andres Bonifacio Elementary School in Tondo, Manila through a celebration themed “Teacher, Ikaw Naman!” (Teacher, It’s Your Turn!) featuring games, surprises, and memorable experiences dedicated to educators.

One of the educators who joined the celebration was Josephine Espiritu, a retired teacher-librarian who devoted 39 years to public school service. Throughout her career, she taught different grade levels while managing library responsibilities and accepting additional teaching assignments. Reflecting on the importance of the profession, she shared, “Iba ang teacher talaga. Walang engineer, walang doctor … kung walang teacher. It’s the noblest profession.” (Teachers are truly in a unique position—there will be no engineers, no doctors, without teachers. It is a noble profession.)

McDonald’s employees who joined the company volunteer program Good Trip spent a day of fun and celebration with current and retired teachers of Andres Bonifacio Elementary School in Tondo, Manila

A year-round commitment to education

The appreciation shown during National Teachers’ Month is part of McDonald’s Philippines’ broader commitment to education, carried forward throughout the year in partnership with its charity of choice, Ronald McDonald House.

McDonald’s Philippines and Ronald McDonald House partner with local government units to establish Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Daycare Centers, which provide preschool children with safe spaces to learn, play, and socialize. Today, 60 Bahay Bulilit daycare centers operate across the country, supporting early childhood care and development.

Employee volunteers also participate in DepEd’s Brigada Eskwela each year, helping clean and repaint classrooms in preparation for the opening of classes.

To date, McDonald’s Philippines’ education programs have reached at least 13.2 million students, 14,500 schools, and 30,000 teachers, reflecting a sustained effort to strengthen learning environments and expand educational opportunities.

The impact of education is built on countless moments of care. McDonald’s Philippines believes in making room for these feel-good moments beyond the classroom and beyond National Teachers’ Month.

October 27, 2026 0 comments