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Davao City Council honors young achievers at Global Environmental Summit

by Contributor
written by Contributor

​BY ALDRIN JAMES A. BOHOL, DNSC Intern

​THE DAVAO City Council recognized the outstanding performance of local youth at the Actions for Earth-Global Youth Summit 2026, underscoring the city’s commitment to nurturing a generation that is globally competitive and environmentally conscious.

​In a privilege speech on Tuesday at the Sangguniang Panlungsod, Councilor Antoinette G. Principe, chairperson of the committee on education, science and technology, arts and culture, emphasized that the recognition goes beyond individual excellence. 

She noted that it reflects Davao City’s goal of building a generation that is informed, proactive, and deeply rooted in social responsibility.

​The international gathering, held from March 26 to 30, 2026, at Microtel by Wyndham Davao, brought together young leaders from various countries, including the Philippines.

​“What is truly commendable… is the outstanding performance of our very own Davaoeño youth, who proudly represented not just our city, but our country on this global platform,” Principe said.

​Councilor Principe specifically recognized three young achievers who brought honor to the city: Kayden Axel M. Maglangit of Davao City Special School, who secured 2nd Place in the Junior Category for his project, “Smart Pavement: Maximizing Land for Responsible Energy”; Jasline P. Suan from the University of Mindanao, who earned 2nd Place in the Senior Category for “Project Soilmates: Scrap to Sprout Initiative”; and Von B. Jabagaton, an alumnus of the University of the Immaculate Conception, who placed 3rd in the Senior Category for his project, “Green Circles.”

​“These young individuals exemplify innovation, environmental consciousness, and the intellectual capacity of Davao’s youth to compete and excel on the global stage,” Principe emphasized.

​Councilor Principe continues to advocate for more initiatives and opportunities for future collaboration on youth-driven, environmentally sustainable projects.

​“Colleagues, if we are serious about shaping the future, then we must invest not only in infrastructure, but in intellect; not only in programs, but in people, especially our youth,” she stressed.

​Vice President Sara Duterte also acknowledged the summit delegates in a statement on April 18, highlighting several Davao-based semi-finalists: Peter Nicholas Plaza of Mati Doctors Academy for ‘Bantay Bughaw’; Ron Edward Dulhao of Ateneo de Davao University for ‘Kape’t Bisig’; and a team from Central Mindanao University for the ‘Walastik Program,’ composed of Marquel Ian Tabafa, Willa Mae R. Sugay, Alfy Joy Dua, and Jun Cres Gio.

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City Council opposes alleged plan to build US military oil depot in Davao Region

by Nova Mae Francas
written by Nova Mae Francas

THE 21ST City Council on Tuesday expressed opposition over the reported plan to construct a US military oil depot in Davao Region, as it directly places ordinary citizens at risk.

In a privilege speech, proponent Councilor Pamela Librado said the US depot is not merely infrastructure but a strategic military installation.

Librado said the move is anchored on “skewed,anti-Filipino agreements” such as the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT), and the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).

“When an infrastructure like this oil depot is built, it becomes part of the machinery that sustains war and extends military intervention,”she said.

She stressed facilities such as this enable war, risking turning the country into a “proxy staging ground” for foreign conflicts.

“If we allow facilities like this oil depot to take root, we risk becoming a logistical base for foreign military intervention – a silent partner in wars that displace communities, destroy livelihoods, and violate human rights,” Librado said.

While the Philippines is not involved in the US war with Iran, the region can become a target if the refueling hub pushes through.

This is reflected in the countries Qatar, UAE, Iraq and Kuwait, which became targets as they hosted US military facilities.

The councilor lamented that the proposal is “insensitive” at this critical moment, when the nation is facing an energy crisis, marked by rising fuel prices, job losses, declining incomes, and worsening economic insecurity.

Citing reports, the United States is eyeing this depot to supply up to 42 million gallons of fuel annually, and the Defense Logistics Agency says that it targets 977,000 barrels storage which will store US-government owned fuel for its warships and aircraft within a four-year period.

“Yet, we are prioritizing infrastructure that fuels foreign military operations. Samtang ang katawhan naglisod sa kamahal ug kakulang sa produktong petrolyo, ang gobyerno motugot og depot para sa militar sa usa ka langyaw nga nasud nga mo-imbak og lana para sa gera,” she stressed.

The councilor added that the proposed oil depot raises serious constitutional concerns, as it potentially enables foreign war logistics in the country will definitely run counter to the constitutional principle of sovereignty.

“The Philippines must uphold a policy of neutrality and independence. We must not host foreign military bases – US or otherwise – on our soil, nor allow our territory to be used as a platform for any foreign power’s war,” she said.

“Our land must serve the Filipino people, not foreign military interests,” Librado stressed, calling to reject any move that turns the region a “proxy for foreign wars” and undermines our security as Davaoeños.

On March 31, the US Defense Logistics Agency issued a formal solicitation for contractors to bid on a Defense Fuel Support Point project in the said area. The DFSP forms part of a broader network of refueling hubs intended to support US military vessels and aircraft operating across the Pacific.

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DPWH, DLPC pledge coastal road lighting improvements

by Contributor
written by Contributor

BY APRIL MARGRETTE ALNAS & BRAELL EBRADO/UM Interns

THE DAVAO Light and Power Co and the Department of Public Works and Highways have committed to installing electrical wiring and facilities for the conventional LED lamps along Davao City Coastal Road.

Earlier, Councilor Diosdado Angelo Mahipus Jr. raised road safety concerns about the streetlights along the coastal road, asking the power utility firm and the DPWH to take action.

DLPC will handle the installation and procurement of the materials, which will form part of its capital expenditure and require approval from the Energy Regulatory Commission. This process will take four to six months.

“It’s around ₱40- ₱50 million to repair and replace this so that we can achieve adequate lighting of that sector,”  said Engr. Allan Christian Calag, DLPC senior assistant vice president for engineering support.

Meanwhile, Engr. Reno Alas, provisional materials engineer at DPWH XI, shared that the solar lights from Times Beach to Roxas are below the required standards. This was the result of their joint light inspection in January 2026.

In the meantime, the DPWH committed to replacing the defective solar lights, although the stocks are anticipated to arrive in early May.

In addition, the non-functioning streetlights at Bago Aplaya-Tulip Drive were caused by recurrent copper wire theft. The city government replaced these with solar lights since the DPWH lacked the funding.

“We will not allow, or we have objections to the turnover of the coastal road if the lighting is not sufficient, but the big problem is that DPWH does not have the funding to correct the situation,” Mahipus said.

The City Council is also concerned about solar maintenance, as it may prove unsustainable. Also, lawmakers suggested not using overhead wires because they block the view of Mount Apo.

The DLPC affirmed that it has an existing underground distribution system in the area and strongly recommends aluminum-insulated wires to reduce wire theft, as aluminum is less valuable than copper 

In addition, Davao Light recommended using conventional LED lights to address lighting disparities, with a formal request for an assessment of retrofitting the existing lamp posts to install street lights in accordance with the company’s standards.

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SP honors EBSU scholar, Top 6 in PLE 2026

by Contributor
written by Contributor

BY CLIFFORD JAMES L. DANDUAN/UM Intern

‎‎RECOGNIZING his outstanding achievement, the 21st City Council approved a resolution on Tuesday, April 14, commending Luigi Ballota Libarios, the lone Davaoeño topnotcher in the March 2026 Physician Licensure Examination. 

‎Notably, the Brokenshire graduate Libarios placed sixth in the licensure examination with an average rating of 88.75%. The milestone served as a double victory for him, as he previously placed fifth in the 2019 Physical Therapists Licensure Examination with a 85.40% rating. 

Councilor Lorenzo Villafuerte proposed the resolution in recognition of the “rare and commendable feat” of the Davaoeño topnotcher, who is also an EBSU scholar under the city’s Medical Education Assistance Program.

In his speech, ‎Villafuerte emphasized that Libarios’ success reflects his intellect and perseverance, as well as serving as an inspiration and a source of pride for Davaoeños.

‎”‎His accomplishment is not only a testament to his intellect and perseverance, but also a source of pride for Davao City. May his success serve as an inspiration to our aspiring professionals, reminding them that with discipline, sacrifice, and unwavering determination, excellence is always within reach,” he stated. 

‎‎On the other hand, Libarios also delivered a speech thanking the City Government of Davao and local officials for continuing to support programs that benefit the people, such as the Educational Benefit System Unit (EBSU).  

‎‎He said that he is a living testimony of how the city’s program works. He was also aware of his opportunity, considering that countless students had to stop their education for financial reasons.

‎‎In an exclusive interview, Libarios encouraged future applicants to persevere, highlighting that his experience applying for the scholarship program was not easy. 

‎‎”I was hesitant at that time when I applied because the requirements themselves are long, and not all of the public offices are willing to give easy requirements. But again, continue to strive hard because I applied to EBSU not just once, twice, but thrice. First, I applied to college, and I was rejected. Second, I didn’t get accepted. But on the third try, I was accepted by EBSU, and luckily, they accepted my application,” he shared

‎Now, Libarios intends to teach first before proceeding with his training. ‎”I’m planning to go down the path of academics first, and then I’m planning to do training soon,” he shared. 

‎Photo by BING GONZALES

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Lawmaker raises safety concerns over inadequate lighting on coastal road 

by Contributor
written by Contributor

BY LEE JOSHUA L. SARDOMA & ALJAVE M. MONTEROLA/DNSC Interns

COUNCILOR Diosdado Angelo Mahipus Jr. raised renewed concerns over road safety along the Davao City coastal road after encountering another vehicular accident near the Bucana area. 

Mahipus emphasized the need for consistent and adequate lighting across all sections of the highway. 

“I was able to pass by another vehicular accident in the vicinity of Bucana,” Mahipus said during his privilege speech on Tuesday’s regular session, April 7. 

Mahipus noted that while streetlamps have already been installed on several portions of the coastal road, there is still a noticeable inconsistency in their brightness and overall quality. 

Motorists passing from the well-lit Bucana Bridge into dimmer areas ahead may experience reduced visibility, increasing the risk of accidents.

 “You can really see the difference when passing the Bucana Bridge compared to other areas,” he stressed.

 Mahipus explained that the uneven lighting conditions may be due to the phase-by-phase implementation of the coastal road project. 

The project was planned and awarded at different times to various contractors, resulting in varying standards and specifications for infrastructure such as lighting systems. 

He added that there were reported challenges in the Aplaya portion of the road, where underground lighting could not be installed because the facilities did not meet the standards required by Davao Light. 

There were also allegations that electrical wiring in the area had been stolen, preventing the completion of the planned lighting system. 

“There is no way to install the lighting as planned because the wiring was reportedly stolen,” he said. 

With the next phase of the coastal road—from Bucana to Sta. Ana and extending toward Agdao—expected to open soon, the councilor called for sufficient and high-quality lighting to be included in the upcoming sections to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians. 

The city councilor warned that if proper lighting is not integrated during the construction phase, the city government may eventually have to allocate additional funds to address deficiencies. 

He stressed that safety should already be prioritized in the planning and execution stages of the project rather than being corrected afterward. 

The city council moved to invite representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Davao Light and Power Company for the next regular session to tackle appropriate action on the matter.

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Until May

by Nova Mae Francas
written by Nova Mae Francas
  • Davao fuel companies assure adequate buffer fuel supply through April

PETROLEUM companies operating in Davao assured lawmakers during the 13th regular session on Tuesday, March 30, 2026, that the buffer fuel stocks for Davao City will last through April and until May, with no end in sight for the Middle East conflict. 

Representatives from Petron, Insular Oil, MyGas Petroleum, Chevron Philippines, and Phoenix Petroleum appeared before the City Council to discuss the current status of fuel supply.

During its 12th regular session last March 24, Lawmakers passed a resolution inviting oil industry players to shed light on the weekly pricing adjustment basis of gasoline stations, which have significantly impacted the price of goods.

Councilor Myrna Dalodo Ortiz said while the global market influences fuel prices, the local government is responsible for evaluating how these changes are translated at the local level.

Albert Cudal of Insular Oil said it currently maintains a 30-day supply cover, with replenishment expected by the middle of April. 

“That’s giving reassurance to the public that we have a good supply,” Cudal stressed.

Insular Oil, an importer of finished petroleum products in Davao, shared that it brings in about 30 million liters monthly from refineries across Asia.

Their shipments are delivered directly to Davao depots without passing through Manila, maintaining coordination with regulatory agencies such as the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Bureau of Customs. 

A representative from Mygas Petroleum Corp has about 20 to 22 days of supply, but remains dependent on supplier pricing as it is not an importer.

“We are not importers so we are very much dependent on the prices that our suppliers are giving us,” the representative said.

Catalimo Ramos, terminal manager of Chevron Philippines (Sasa Depot), which operates Caltex, said that their gasoline supply is secured until April 30. Diesel stocks are expected to last until the fourth week of May, with incoming replenishment next week to extend availability.

Meanwhile, John Manuel Diosana of Phoenix Sasa said they maintain a 30-day buffer, replenished monthly through local purchases.

Despite this, lawmakers were dissatisfied with the responses, particularly on the issue of pricing and specific components, along with strategic plans during emergencies. 

Ortiz moved to proceed with a joint committee hearing for another round of discussions scheduled after the Holy week, where officials will expect more comprehensive explanations from oil companies regarding pricing structures and consumer impact.

“It seems that the specific topic that we would have wanted to ask from them, they cannot give us exact answers because they are just representatives and not involved in price-setting,” Ortiz told reporters in a sideline interview during the session.

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Zero tolerance policy pushed vs drunk driving 

by Nova Mae Francas
written by Nova Mae Francas

A LAWMAKER pushed to declare a policy of zero tolerance in the city amid recent incidents involving the death of a pedestrian due to an alleged drunk driver. 

Councilor Angelo Mahipus Jr. proposed a resolution during Tuesday’s regular session calling for a stricter enforcement of Republic Act No. 10586, or the“Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.” 

Mahipus said recent incidents within the City, including the Davao City Coastal Road, Catalunan Grande, Buhangin, and Quimpo Boulevard, resulted in the loss of lives, under circumstances indicating possible alcohol-impaired driving during late-night and early-morning hours.

“These incidents reveal a pattern of preventable harm, particularly affecting pedestrians and other vulnerable road users, and underscore the urgent need for strengthened enforcement and community intervention,” he added. 

Despite the existence of a national law, there is a need for more effective enforcement.

“It is necessary to ensure that law enforcement agencies are adequately equipped and strategically deployed, especially during late-night and early-morning hours, to prevent incidents before they occur,” he stressed. 

The councilor said strict enforcement will require personnel deployment, operational visibility, and sufficient equipment, particularly breath analyzers, to support lawful apprehension and testing.

The councilor called on the Land Transportation Office (LTO) -XI, including the City Transport and Traffic Management Office, the Philippine National Police Traffic Enforcement Unit, and the Davao City Police Office, to strictly and consistently enforce the national law, particularly the mandatory alcohol and chemical testing of drivers involved in vehicular incidents resulting in injury or death.

He also called on the line agencies to intensify checkpoint operations, especially during late-night and early morning hours, in areas identified as high-risk corridors. 

Establishment of additional checkpoints in strategic locations, especially in the vicinity of bars, restaurants, and similar establishments, for the purpose of deterring and detecting impaired driving, is also urged.

Mahipus stressed that the availability and use of appropriate testing equipment, including breath analyzers and other authorized devices, to support enforcement operations is also critical. 

He added that timely reporting and proper documentation of incidents to LTO is urged for appropriate administrative action. 

Mahipus said while liability for criminal acts rests upon the offending driver, establishments serving alcoholic beverages have a role in early intervention by discouraging intoxicated individuals from operating motor vehicles. 

Establishments are urged to exercise in good faith efforts to discourage visibly intoxicated individuals from operating motor vehicles and assist, when necessary, in facilitating safe alternative transport arrangements. 

The councilor called on appropriate government offices to prioritize funding and logistical support for enforcement operations aimed at preventing drunk driving. 

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Tricycle Alliance wants P20 minimum fare hike 

by Contributor
written by Contributor

BY CHELSEA JEAN VALENTOS, MERRY CRIS DURON, & ROSELYN DIAZ/DNSC interns

THE TRICYCLE Alliance of Davao City filed a petition on Tuesday’s City Council session for an additional P10 to the minimum fare, as their take-home pay has been reduced due to the rising fuel prices. 

Represented by chairman Michael Ybañez, the group requested lawmakers to file a resolution supporting their request to increase the fare to P20, plus P5 per kilometer.

Ybañez said the current P10 minimum fare for tricycles is already out of date since it was last approved in 2020. 

Earlier, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) approved the petition of transport groups to increase the fare for provincial buses, jeepneys, and Transportation Network Vehicle Services (TNVS).

On March 14, the agency okayed the P0.35-P1 fare increase for provincial buses.

LTFRB XI also approved a P1 increase for the first four kilometers, including a 20-centavo adjustment per kilometer, in the minimum fare for traditional and modern jeepneys. As for the TVNS, a flat rate of P20 has been added to the fare. 

The new rates should have started on March 19, but President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued an order maintaining the status quo.

Marcos said that it is not the time to increase the fare, considering the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

“I-defer natin yan, i-postpone na muna natin yan dahil ay nasa gitna ngayon tayo nitong sitwasyon na ito na kailangan patuloy ang ating pag-alalay sa commuter, manggagawa, estudyante,” he said.

Marcos emphasized the need to continue providing support to affected Filipinos, especially the users of the transportation system.

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DCPO, Davao City Council tackle security concerns amid oil crisis

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

AS THE global fallout from the US-Iran conflict threatens local fuel prices, the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) joined the 21st City Council on Tuesday to coordinate a unified response to the mounting economic pressure.

During the 12th Regular Session, presided over by Vice Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, security officials met with representatives from the Department of Energy and the Department of Trade and Industry. 

The session focused on the energy implications of the Middle East tensions and how they might affect the peace and order of Davao City.

Lt. Col. Nolan Raquid, representing acting city director Col. Mannan Muarip, assured that they have measures in place to ensure that public safety remains stable even as economic challenges arise.

Oil price hike again

Several oil companies, including Jetti Petroleum, Seaoil, and Unioil, raised fuel prices on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

Gasoline increased by ₱8–₱9.70 per liter, diesel by ₱16.80–₱18, and kerosene by ₱21.

Meanwhile, Petro Gazz continues its ₱5-per-liter rollback on diesel and gasoline, now expanded to more stations nationwide.

On March 9, the DCPO convened an inter-agency meeting to prepare for the potential domestic ripple effects of the ongoing US-Iran and Middle East tensions.

Muarip spearheaded the session, attended by key representatives from Task Force Davao, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Department of Energy (DOE), and the City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO), who affirmed their commitment to a synchronized response.

“While global tensions may seem distant, their ripple effects can directly impact our local communities,” Muarip emphasized during the briefing. “Proactive planning and unity among agencies ensure that Davao City remains resilient in the face of these external challenges.”

The inter-agency body coordinated with the DOE and the Consumer Protection Division to prevent price manipulation or artificial shortages. It also seeks to ensure that the CTTMO and PSSO (Public Safety and Security Office) are prepared for potential transport disruptions.

Meanwhile, the Task Force Davao and the Coast Guard Station Davao tightened coordination to maintain public order and secure vital installations.

LCDR Mark Anthony Tolentino of the PCG and Col Alvin Tenorio of Task Force Davao were among those who expressed support for the DCPO’s initiative, noting that the synergy between maritime and land-based security is crucial during periods of global uncertainty.

Muarip said that preparedness is not just about operational readiness, but about “building trust and transparency” with the public as the situation evolves.

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Davao City Council offers prayer for FPRRD amid ongoing confirmation of charges in ICC

by Nova Mae Francas
written by Nova Mae Francas

THE 21ST Davao City Council offered a prayer for former President Rodrigo Duterte in the ongoing confirmation of charges in the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.

The confirmation hearing in the case The Prosecutor v. Rodrigo Roa Duterte is scheduled to open on 23 February 2026 at 10:00 (The Hague local time) before Pre-Trial Chamber I of the ICC.

Councilor Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz led the prayer before the regular session started on Tuesday, Feb. 24.

“We also lift up to you the ongoing court proceedings involving our beloved former President, Rodrigo Duterte, in the Hague. Lord, you are the source of justice and truth. We pray that fairness, clarity, and due process will prevail,” Ortiz said.

“Grant him strength, peace of mind, and courage during a challenging time. Comfort his family and supporters, and calm any unrest or division among our people,” she added.

The hearing is scheduled on February 23-27, 2026, where the prosecution, the defense, and the legal representatives of victims will make oral submissions before the judges to present their arguments on the merits.

The confirmation of charges hearing aims to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to establish substantial grounds that the defendant committed each of the crimes charged. 

ICC stated that if one or more of the charges are confirmed, the case will be transferred to a Trial Chamber.

In an interview after the session, Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang urged supporters to continue praying for the release of FPRRD.

“He was our mayor. We are deprived of our mayor. He was elected by the people of Davao. We were deprived of his services, but I believe the only way is to pray,” Dayanghirang said.

The councilor declined to comment on the first day of the confirmation of charges on February 23

Apart from praying, Dayanghirang said he is closely monitoring the ongoing procedure.

“I know what is in their mind is to look at God and to give what is due to the president. The presentation is laudable on the side of Kaufman,” he said.

With the confirmation to conclude on Friday, Dayanghirang said the party is not speculating, except to “pray hard” before Friday and thereafter.

Dayanghirang said there is no scheduled movement to show support for the president to give way for the proceedings in the ICC.

The councilor said the city council is not passing a resolution, as a series of resolutions appealing to bring back home the former president have been passed in the past year.

“It is their right to express, but as far as I’m concerned, I believe more in the higher-up than human intervention. In this case, I feel it’s God’s will, and we will pray more,” he stressed.

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