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Kaogma, we are told, means happiness. And who among us is against happiness? Filipinos practically manufacture it under impossible conditions. We find reasons to smile during typhoons, laugh during blackouts, and turn inconveniences into jokes before they turn us into emotional wrecks. Happiness is not the problem. The question is: how much should happiness cost? Reports and public discussions surrounding this year's Kaogma Festival have raised eyebrows over the reported scale of spending attached to the celebration. Whether one supports the festival or not, the reaction itself reveals something deeper than a disagreement over concerts and stages. It exposes a recurring question in governance: at what point does celebration begin competing with necessity? Because outside the lights and sound systems, reality remains stubborn. Fuel prices do not suddenly become lighter because a stage becomes brighter. A family still computes expenses before entering a grocery store. Drivers still watch fuel prices nervously and with very little control over the outcome. Ordinary people continue performing the mathematics of survival every day: subtracting needs, postponing wants, and hoping the next payday arrives before the next problem does. And yet there is something uniquely fascinating about government celebrations. Government somehow possesses the magical ability to discover extraordinary levels of enthusiasm when festivities are involved. Budgets suddenly become energetic. Resources become flexible. Planning becomes efficient. Urgency becomes visible. Road repairs can wait. Problems can undergo further study. Public concerns can remain under review. But concerts? Ah, concerts have dates. To be fair, supporters of large festivals will argue that these events stimulate tourism, create temporary jobs, help small businesses, and generate economic activity. That argument is not without merit. Festivals can create movement in local economies and bring people together. Kaogma has long been promoted as a source of culture, identity, and opportunity in CamSur. But even good things invite uncomfortable questions. Because people are not merely asking whether happiness is valuable. They are asking whether priorities are. There is a difference between spending for celebration and spending during struggle. A feast looks different when people around the table are worried about whether there will be enough food tomorrow. Perhaps that is the issue. People are not angry because there is music. People are asking why government sometimes appears more prepared to host a party than solve a problem. Look closer. A festival lasts for days. The burdens people carry last much longer.

Atty., haloy nang nawawara an dati kong agom asin nakakua na ako nin court order na nagdedeklarar na siya ay presumptively dead. Pano kung bigla siya magbalik, ano po an epekto kani sa pangduwa kong kasal? ----- Sa irarom kan batas, puwedeng magkaigwa nin Affidavit of Reappearance — sarong sinumpaang pahayag na nagpapatunay na buhay pa asin nagbalik an dati mong agom. Ini puwedeng gibuhon kan mismong nagbalik na agom o maski nin ibang tawo na may kaaraman sa pagbalik niya, asin dapat ini mairehistro sa civil registry. Kun an Affidavit of Reappearance nairehistro ning tama, ang pangduwang kasal awtomatikong matatapos o inaapod na by operation of law. An simbag na ini para sana sa pankagabsan na impormasyon asin dai dapat ituring na legal advice para sa partikular na kaso. Kung may mga kahaputan, mag email sa ihapotkiattorney@gmail.com

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity First Reading: Exodus 34:4b-6, 8-9 Responsorial Psalm Psalm Daniel 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56 R. (52b) Glory and praise for ever! Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 13:11-13 Gospel Reading: John 3:16-18 God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him will not be condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.

Dear Father Bill, Ngunian na lakop na an Artificial Intelligence (AI), ano an mga dapat tandaan? Saen mahanap nin giya an naggagamit kani? An minagalang, Lea Dear Lea, Tamang-tama an kahapotan na ini huli ta kan Mayo 25, 2026, ipinaglansar kan Santo Papa, Leo XIV, an saiyang pinakaenot na encyclical letter na "Magnifica Humanitas." An katuyuhan kaini iyo na mairayo an tawo sa mga nakakapurisaw na epekto kan "Artificial Intelligence" (AI), "Digitalisation," "New Technological Capabilities" asin iba pa. An mga ini pwedeng magdara nin kapahamakan o peligro sa katawohan, arog baga kan mga desisyon na automatik na, dai na pinag-iisipan. An kapangyarihan naka-pokus na sana sa pribadong mga kamot, asin pagkawara kan kontrol sa kamot nin tawo. Kaya an dakulang kahapotan: Ano an direksyon na satong pipilion bilang mga indibidwal asin sarong communidad nin katawohan? Duwang dalan an pwede tang pilion: Babel o Jerusalem. Sa direksyon nin Babel mahihiling ta an katawohan na mayong Dios, an pagkakapareho kan gabos, asin pagkawara kan dignidad nin mga tawo. Mas eenoton pa an ganansya kisa sa karahayan kan katawohan. An tawo saro na sanang datos asin mas madakula an paglakop kan dai pagkapantay-pantay. Sa dalan nin Jerusalem, an Dios an nasa tahaw. An pagkakaiba kan lambang saro iyo an pinaghahalean nin kayamanan. An pagigin magturugang asin pagpatinarabang-tabangan iyo an burabod kan kusog nin lambang saro. Sa dalan nin Jerusalem, an pinaka-prinsipyo iyo na makahaman nin sarabay o iribaiba. Ini mabibilog kun igwa nin padagos na pag-orolay, pagdangog, pag-ako kan lambang saro, asin ihineras na responsabilidad. Dawa yaon na kita sa panahon nin AI, mayo nin siisay man na tawo an kayang darahon an mga hamon na inaatubang kan kinaban. Kaya apat na elemento an kaipuhan tanganing magin marhay an futuro kan kinaban: relasyon sa Dios, pag-ako kan limitasyon nin tawo, makiheras sa mga responsabilidad, asin maggamit kan lenguaje na nagdadara nin pagkasararo. An AI sarong tanda nin pag-asenso sa teknolohiya, alagad dai dapat kaini hamakon an papel na ginagampanan kan lambang tawo asin an capacidad kan isip asin puso. Siring man, dai man logod maraot kaini an pakidumamay/pagmalasakit asin spiritwal na paggiya kan Simbahan. An minagalang, Fr. Bill * * * Email me at: billparisadmu@gmail.com

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat "Do not be mere spectators." Speaking to hundreds of devotees of Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, at the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia in Naga City last May 22, Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon emphasized the pillars of a synodal church: communion, participation and mission. Devotion must deepen our sense of communion with others, the Archbishop said. "It must let us grow in empathy, compassion and solidarity towards others." "We desire a Church that walks with us, a Church that is in our midst." The Archbishop urged the devotees to ask themselves what they need to change or do more to make the Church more inclusive and in communion with others. He gave the Peñafrancia de Mayo as an example of an inclusive Church, a Church that allows women to participate in the devotional practices traditionally joined by men alone. Such an example is the fluvial procession. The pagoda is boarded by men every September, and by women every May. Alarcon also emphasized the Caceres Jubilee team: "Gabos kaayon, Gabos may gibúbon", calling all those present to actively participate in the life of the Church. He decried selfishness and greed, hindrances to true service to God and others. In closing, Alarcon called the devotees to a life of mission, to fear missing out on the mission entrusted to us by God. "The Lord desires that the Good News reaches everyone." The eucharistic celebration capped the Peñafrancia de Mayo on the occasion of the 44th dedication of the Basilica. Currently, Fr. Eugene Lubigan serves as the Rector of the Basilica, with Fr. Jene Lois Sarmiento as Vice-Rector. Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon celebrates the mass after the Fluvial Procession on May 22, Friday. This culminates the Peñafrancia de Mayo and commemorates the 44th dedication anniversary of the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia in Naga City. (Photos by Natalie Quimlat) The Peñafrancia de Mayo concludes with a fluvial procession of the images of Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, and the Divino Rostro, from the Naga City People's Mall to the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia, May 22. (Photos by Natalie Quimlat)

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat At the novena mass held in honor of Mary, Mother of the Church last May 20, mass presider and homilist, Bishop Luisito Occiano of Virac, highlighted the significant contributions of the Daughters of Mary (DM) sisters not only to the Philippine local Church, especially in the Bicol region where they take root, but also to the many Dioceses abroad where the sisters have been present as missionaries. Reflecting on the Wedding at Cana, Occiano highlighted three attributes of Mary that the sisters have emulated and must continue to do so as they carry on with their mission. “Like Mary, the sisters are attentive to the needs of the people whom they serve,” he said. This makes their presence fundamental in building communities. “The scarcity of the wine of hope, wine of faith and wine of charity have led to the establishment of your Congregation and since, the gaps were filled with your presence.” The Bishop also emphasized the call towards a synodal church, urging the sisters to develop a culture of deep listening instead of rigid administration. In addition, Occiano called the sisters to identify their modern-day Cana moments. “These are times when vocation seems few, resources are strained.” During these times, he told the sisters to be like Mary: “To trust in Jesus’ time. Miracles have happened and will continue to happen because of our faith," he said. In closing, the Bishop encouraged the sisters to always fill the jars to the brim. He advocated against being half-hearted and mediocre in doing their mission, and told them to always give their best. “Fill the jars to the very brim and allow Jesus to facilitate the miracle of transformation.” Occiano, Chairman of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines Episcopal Committee for Synodal Transformation, is one of the Bicol Bishops who celebrated the novena masses in honor of Mary, Mother of the Church at the Mater Ecclesiae Formation Center in Cadlan, Pili. The Daughters of Mary Mother of the Church Institute was founded in 1966 by Archbishop Teopisto Alberto, second Archbishop of Caceres, and Mother Mary Therese Vicente. The DM sisters are widely known for their work in catechism, primary schools and administration. Archbishop Emeritus Rolando Tria Tirona, OCD of Caceres presided over the mass on the occasion of the feast of Mary, Mother of the Church, May 25, at the Mater Ecclesiae Formation Center in Cadlan, Pili. In his homily, Tirona urged the Daughters of Mary sisters to always listen to the Holy Spirit, through whom one is constantly renewed and transformed after the heart of Jesus. During the mass, attendees also witnessed the renewal of vows of Sr. Ofel Bocabil Borlagdan, DM and the first religious profession of Sr. Margie Patricio Isaac, DM. (Photos by Natalie Quimlat)

By Keren Anne Bernadas LEGAZPI CITY, Albay --- Long before sunrise, 62-year-old rice farmer Nard (not his real name) was already on his way to the city from Sto. Domingo, Albay, hoping to secure a few kilos of rice priced at only P20 per kilo. By 5 a.m., dozens of residents had already lined up, all eager to take advantage of the government’s affordable rice program amid rising food costs. In Albay, only two warehouses have been designated for the rollout of the “Benteng Bigas Meron Na” initiative aimed at expanding eligible vulnerable sectors—Legazpi City and Tabaco City. For many families like Nard’s, the hours-long wait and early travel are sacrifices worth making just to put food on the table. To make affordable rice more accessible to vulnerable communities, the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) has formally launched the “Benteng Bigas Meron Na” initiative under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Rice-for-All program in the Bicol Region. Under this initiative, the NAPC, through its Basic Sectoral Councils, works closely with local government units (LGUs) to identify and facilitate the inclusion of qualified beneficiaries in the subsidized rice program. The Food Terminal Incorporated (FTI) supplies rice stocks directly to LGUs endorsed by the NAPC, allowing for faster and more efficient delivery of affordable, quality rice to communities. NAPC Policy and Planning Service Director Nolan Banda said that the program is designed to eliminate bureaucratic delays and bring government services closer to ordinary Filipinos. “The goal is to make affordable rice easily accessible to vulnerable sectors without requiring them to travel far or go through lengthy processes,” Banda said. Under the improved distribution system, LGUs can now directly coordinate with FTI for rice allocation, simplifying the process by eliminating the need for complex resolutions and multiple requests. “This is faster, more people-oriented, and more convenient for Filipinos,” Banda added. In Albay, pilot implementations took place in Sto. Domingo on May 20 and in Guinobatan on May 22, where over 5,000 residents were able to purchase rice under the program. In Guinobatan alone, around 2,500 initial beneficiaries were identified, with the LGU purchasing 500 sacks of rice for distribution. Beneficiary Saprica Pepaño of Upper Binogsacan in Guinobatan expressed her gratitude, saying the initiative has significantly helped residents struggling with high food costs. “This is a big help for many families because we can now buy rice at a much lower price, allowing us to save more for other necessities,” she shared. Maricar Ordoño, a beneficiary from Sitio Cangao in Quitago, Guinobatan, also appreciated the NAPC initiative, saying that the Benteng Bigas Meron Na program has been expanded to benefit more people in the community, contributing to affordable rice and food security. Guinobatan Mayor Ann Gemma Ongjoco welcomed the program, emphasizing its importance for enhancing food security in local communities. “This gives more residents access to affordable and high-quality rice, especially at a time when food security is crucial,” Ongjoco said. The LGU has committed to extending the program directly to barangays in the coming weeks to improve accessibility for residents who have difficulty traveling to town centers. Banda also noted that under the administration’s expanded implementation strategy, affordable rice will no longer be confined to National Food Authority (NFA) warehouses. Instead, government agencies and LGUs are expected to bring supplies directly to communities. LGUs will not need to release funds since FTI is consigning the rice. On Monday, NAPC reported that the Sto. Domingo and Guinobatan LGUs had already paid FTI, as their rice stocks were sold out. Banda said that President Marcos, who also serves as chairperson of the NAPC, continues to advocate for a wider implementation of the Benteng Bigas, Meron Na program as part of the government’s efforts to address food affordability and improve access to basic commodities for low-income Filipino families. The Rice-for-All initiative in Bicol will continue as more LGUs coordinate with NAPC and FTI for future distributions, Banda added. (PIA Bicol)

By Jordan Domingo Man killed, another hurt in Goa motorcycle collision A 38-year-old man died while another was seriously injured following a head-on motorcycle collision at around 2:30 a.m. on May 26 in Barangay Pinaglabanan, Goa, Camarines Sur. Police identified the fatality as alias “Rodel,” who was declared dead on arrival at the Goa Municipal Infirmary. The other driver, alias “Richard,” 39, sustained serious injuries. Investigation showed that the victim was traveling eastbound when the other motorcycle allegedly encroached into his lane, resulting in the collision. Both vehicles, which reportedly had no documents, were impounded at the Goa Municipal Police Station. Authorities are continuing their investigation. Baao town’s No. 6 most wanted nabbed for rape Police arrested a 67-year-old man tagged as the No. 6 most wanted person in Baao, Camarines Sur during an operation at around 11:20 a.m. on May 26 in Barangay San Ramon. The suspect, identified as alias “Jose,” was served a warrant of arrest for two counts of qualified rape, with no bail recommended. Authorities said the suspect was informed of his rights and is now under police custody pending turnover to the court. Records also showed he had previous cases, including sexual assault and violations of laws protecting women and children, although some were dismissed. 2 injured in Tinambac motorcycle crash Two motorcycle drivers, including a minor, were injured in a collision at around 10:20 a.m. on May 26 in Barangay Salvacion, Tinambac, Camarines Sur. Police said both drivers, who were not licensed, figured in the crash after one of them failed to maintain his lane along a curved road and struck the oncoming motorcycle. The victims were initially treated at the Tinambac Municipal Hospital before being transferred to the Bicol Medical Center in Naga City for intensive care. Both motorcycles were brought to the Tinambac Municipal Police Station for proper disposition. Grass fire hits vacant lot in Pili A grass fire broke out at around 3:00 p.m. on May 26 on a private lot in Barangay New San Roque, Pili, Camarines Sur. Police said no one was injured in the incident. Firefighters from the Bureau of Fire Protection in Pili responded and declared the fire out at about 3:20 p.m. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire, while police secured the area during the incident. Habal-habal driver nabbed in drug buy-bust A 40-year-old habal-habal driver was arrested in a buy-bust operation conducted at around 7:50 p.m. on May 26 in Barangay Lupi, San Fernando, Camarines Sur. The suspect, identified as alias “Melvs,” was caught after allegedly selling a sachet of suspected shabu to an undercover operative. Police said additional sachets of suspected illegal drugs and the marked money were recovered from the suspect, with a total estimated weight of 0.617 grams valued at about P4,195. The suspect is now under police custody and will face charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

By Connie Calipay LEGAZPI CITY --- More than PHP15 million worth of illegal drugs were confiscated and 12 drug personalities were arrested in a series of coordinated anti-drug operations conducted over the weekend. Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) Director Brig. Gen. Erosito Miranda said authorities seized 2.2 kilograms of shabu worth an estimated PHP15.08 million and 2 grams of marijuana valued at PHP240 during eight anti-drug operations across the Bicol Region. In Albay, four operations led to the arrest of seven drug personalities, including three high-value individuals and four street-level individuals. Among the operations, the biggest accomplishment was recorded in Legazpi City on Sunday, where authorities confiscated illegal drugs worth PHP6.8 million and arrested two alleged drug peddlers from Bacoor, Cavite, who were believed to be supplying illegal drugs in the Bicol Region. In Camarines Norte, anti-drug operatives on Saturday arrested two high-value individuals and seized illegal drugs worth PHP8.1 million, considered among the province’s biggest anti-drug accomplishments this year. Authorities also conducted two successful operations in Camarines Sur, arresting two street-level individuals and confiscating PHP13,056 worth of illegal drugs. Miranda commended the operating units for their unwavering commitment and aggressive stance against illegal drugs, emphasizing that the accomplishment reflects the region’s intensified operational capability and strong law enforcement collaboration. "This accomplishment sends a powerful message that PRO-5 remains aggressive, relentless, and uncompromising in the fight against illegal drugs," he said. "Our police operatives will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations to dismantle drug networks and arrest individuals who continue to destroy lives and communities through illegal drugs.” Meanwhile, The top 10 most wanted persons in the Bicol Region were arrested in a series of police operations in May, the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) reported on Monday. PRO-5 director Brig. Gen. Erosito Miranda said the arrested individuals were linked to heinous crimes, including murder, rape, qualified rape, statutory rape, attempted rape, and acts of lasciviousness, underscoring the gravity of the cases pursued by operating units. “This is a victory for the victims and their families who have long sought justice. PRO-5 will continue to intensify its operations against wanted persons and criminal elements as part of our duty to maintain peace, order, and public safety in the Bicol Region,” Miranda said in a statement. Among those arrested was “Joe,” who faces a non-bailable murder charge. The suspect, who is from Sorsogon, was apprehended in Cavite on May 5, 2026. Meanwhile, “Ric,” 47, the region’s No. 2 most wanted person and also charged with murder, was arrested on May 11. Also arrested were “Dan,” who had been hiding in Zamboanga for four years and is facing murder charges; “Ninoy,” the No. 4 most wanted person who is also charged with murder; and “Jose,” who was arrested for three counts of rape. Further operations led to the arrest of “Erald,” the No. 6 most wanted person, who faces two counts of rape and acts of lasciviousness; “Ron,” ranked No. 7, charged with acts of lasciviousness and qualified rape; “Thor,” ranked No. 8, charged with attempted rape and qualified rape; “Gio,” ranked No. 9, charged with acts of lasciviousness and statutory rape; and “Bert,” ranked No. 10, charged with qualified rape. Miranda commended the operating units for their dedication, discipline, and operational effectiveness, saying the accomplishment reflects the police force’s strong resolve to uphold justice and protect the public. Authorities assured the public that PRO-5 would continue its intensified manhunt operations against other wanted persons as part of its commitment to justice and safer communities in Bicol. (PNA)

By Benilda Recebido SORSOGON CITY, Sorsogon --- The city government of Sorsogon officially handed over 214 housing units to families living in informal settlements and flood zones on Tuesday, May 19. The initiative highlighted the local government’s efforts to help more low-income families gain access to safe and decent homes. It aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s national housing program, which encourages local governments to use public land to provide safe and affordable homes for families who need them the most. Sorsogon City Mayor Ma. Ester Hamor highlighted that this project was made possible through a strong partnership with the provincial government. The housing units are distributed across two different areas to support balanced economic growth and reduce traffic congestion. In the Urban Integration Zone, 64 of the new homes are located in Barangays Sirangan and Sampaloc, close to key city services like markets and schools. This setup helps keep families connected to economic opportunities rather than isolating them in faraway areas. In contrast, the 150 housing units in Sitio Maricrum, Barangay San Jose in the Bacon District, fall under what is called as Rural Decentralization Zone. This area is designed to support agricultural jobs and encourage growth in suburban areas, helping reduce overcrowding in the city center. To ensure that public land is protected and to give vulnerable residents lasting housing security, the local government has set up a strict agreement for these homes. “Instead of following the traditional way of selling land, which often pushes low-income families out due to rising costs, this approach tackles the main issues causing urban poverty,” said Hamor. Cyril Oropesa, the city’s legal officer, explained that the beneficiaries can live in these homes as long as they wish, but the government will always own the land. This means that no private land titles will be given to residents. According to Oropesa, the arrangement keeps city properties safe under government ownership, which allows the city to borrow more money for future infrastructure projects. “This gives the local government the ability to fund improvements while ensuring families have a safe home without the risk of losing it to real estate market pressures,” he said. “Overall, this streamlined approach helps deliver social services to communities quickly and efficiently,” he added. Francesca Destacamento, 22, a beneficiary of the housing program, expressed gratitude for the secure homes that eliminate fears of eviction and rising rents. She noted the units’ proximity to public markets and schools helps reduce transportation costs for her extended family. Armida Sistoso-Belen, 49, a single parent of a child with disabilities, called the program a blessing, especially after losing their home to a recent fire in Barangay Almendras. “My long dream was finally granted,” she said emotionally. Jocelyn Laguerta, a solo parent of three, shared that she and her neighbors often faced severe flooding and anxiety in their previous homes. “Now, we feel safe and have peace of mind,” she said. During the turnover ceremony, Hamor urged beneficiaries to care for their new homes and community facilities, emphasizing the importance of treating the housing with dignity for future generations. (PIA Bicol/Sorsogon) The newly inaugurated Sampaloc Tenement provides safe and decent houses to families living in informal settlements and flood-prone areas. (PIA 5/ Sorsogon)

By Ana-Liza S. Macatangay Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Kiko Benitez led the ceremonial graduation rites for 98 Child Development Workers (CDWs) after completing their Early Childhood Care and Development Services (ECCDS) course. The graduates, who completed the specialized training program with renewed dedication to nurturing young learners, marked another milestone in TESDA’s continuing efforts to strengthen early childhood education in the Bicol Region. Benitez said the program aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure that children aged 0 to 6 years old receive proper childhood care and development training especially during their formative years. “Ang directive ni Pangulong Marcos even from last year is to strengthen the foundation of our education, particularly Early Childhood Care and Development. So this is an initiative that started last year, specific to education,” Benitez noted. The event, held on Friday, May 22, at the Villa Caceres Hotel, also formally launched the ECCDS eLearning course in the TESDA Online Program (TOP) platform, making the program accessible through a web portal. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who championed and sponsored Republic Act No. 12199 or the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) System Act, said the graduates’ achievement signals greater opportunities not only for CDWs but also for the children who will benefit from their training. “Well, napakaganda itong graduation ceremony ng ating mga Child Development Workers. Ito ang kauna-unahang pagkakataon na nabigyan sila ng pormal na kasanayan, training, at nabigyan din sila ng NC III certification. Ito ay international standard, pandaigdigang pamantayan pagdating sa pagtuturo ng mga bata,” Gatchalian added. Grateful beneficiaries and graduates Jane T. Galvez, 52-year-old Day Care teacher from Pili, Camarines Sur, said the law was a ray of hope for people like her. She thanked TESDA and President Marcos for recognizing the need to professionalize the job that she passionately embraced for 32 years. “Very thankful po kami na mga CDW kasi po sa lahat ng naging president, si President BBM po ang nakaisip na bigyan kami ng mga training at ipasunod niya po ‘yong batas ng ECCD program, malaking tulong po talaga ‘yon sa amin,” Galvez shared. Ailen Francisco of Milaor, Camarines Sur, one of the program’s top achievers, said receiving an NC III certification opens more opportunities for CDWs like her, while helping them better guide children toward reaching their full potential. “Malaking bagay po na mabigyan kami ng NC III mula sa TESDA. Nangangahulugan po ito ng mas malaking oportunidad na naghihintay sa amin. Para din ito sa mga batang tuturuan namin. Salamat po sa TESDA at sa ating Pangulo,” Francisco said. Vanessa Labrador from Baao, Camarines Sur, who has been teaching at their daycare center for 18 years, said the program made CDWs feel valued and recognized. “Naramdaman ko ang halaga naming mga CDWs. Salamat at nabigyang-pansin kami, nabigyan ng training at dahil sa batas na nagtataguyod ng ECCDs, puwede na kaming maging permanente,” Labrador said. Gatchalian said that one of the key features of the ECCD System Act is the transition of the CDWs into permanent status, with proper salary grades and the opportunity to avail of formal training opportunities. “Maraming Child Development Workers ang hindi nabibigyan ng tamang sweldo, hindi sila regular, so itong batas na ito, na kami ni Sec. Kiko ang nagtulak, na magiging regular sila, na mabigyan sila ng salary grade at bibigyan sila ng formal training.” He added that some CDWs who were not able to finish college will have an opportunity to participate in training sessions and can later on also get their bachelor’s degree. With two leading TESDA Technology institutions and pioneer implementers of the program in the Bicol region—the Regional Training Center Pili and the Cabugao School of Handicraft and Cottage Industries, TESDA will continue to strengthen partnerships among its accredited training institutions, local government units, and community stakeholders. (PIA Bicol/Camarines Sur)

By Benilda Recebido SORSOGON CITY, Sorsogon --- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is connecting farmers with more consumers and institutions to help increase their income and reduce food waste, especially as global oil prices rise sharply. By linking farmers directly with hospitals, correctional facilities, and other markets, the initiative aims to ensure that farmers receive fair and steady prices for their goods while also providing these institutions with a reliable supply of high-quality food. This effort not only supports farmers and strengthens the entire food system—from producers to consumers—but also aims to keep local food supplies stable and prices fair. To achieve these goals, an agreement was signed at the DAR office in Sorsogon, creating a direct supply chain for agricultural products and handmade crafts from at least 15 organizations that benefit from agrarian reform. By cutting out market fluctuations and middlemen, this program helps farmers earn a stable income and reduces transportation costs, which have been heavily affected by the ongoing global oil crisis. Under this new arrangement, farmers will directly deliver fresh produce and crafts to local facilities including the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the Philippine National Police, the Sorsogon Medical Mission Group Hospital, and markets supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Leaders from these institutions expressed their commitment not just as buyers but as partners, emphasizing their shared goal of supporting locally grown food and helping farmers become more competitive in the market. Maria Trinise General, the provincial agrarian reform program officer, said that the agreement marks an important step toward strengthening partnerships, expanding market access, promoting food security, and creating lasting job opportunities for farmers. Cassiopeia Delgado from DTI assured farmers that the agency is dedicated to helping them improve their products to meet both national and international quality standards. Farmers Gerwyn Pura and Daisy Belludo expressed their gratitude to DAR and their new partners for providing access to larger markets. They noted that having guaranteed market access is crucial for weathering economic challenges. In turn, the cooperatives promised to deliver high-quality, naturally grown produce at fair prices, building strong and sustainable relationships with their buyers. (PIA Bicol/Sorsogon) By linking farmers directly with hospitals, correctional facilities, and other markets, the initiative aims to ensure that farmers receive fair and steady prices for their goods while also providing these institutions with a reliable supply of high-quality food. (Photo from DARPO Sorsogon)