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              <text>A crown earned in poise and purpose: Anilao lass rises as Miss Iloilo 2026&#13;
By Ma. Theresa Ladiao -Monday, January 19, 2026&#13;
Miss Iloilo 2026 Zestah Shalom Espinosa (center) of Anilao town is flanked by (from left) Miss Iloilo 2026 Heartfelt Queens Lorraine Manguiat of Tubungan, Angel Ann Teruel of Pototan, Jessica Mae Gatungay of Guimbal, and Patricia Lynn Beerda of La Paz, Iloilo City. AJ PALCULLO/PN&#13;
Miss Iloilo 2026 Zestah Shalom Espinosa (center) of Anilao town is flanked by (from left) Miss Iloilo 2026 Heartfelt Queens Lorraine Manguiat of Tubungan, Angel Ann Teruel of Pototan, Jessica Mae Gatungay of Guimbal, and Patricia Lynn Beerda of La Paz, Iloilo City. AJ PALCULLO/PN&#13;
&#13;
ILOILO City – On a night stitched together by elegance, resolve, and unmistakable Ilongga pride, Zestah Shalom Espinosa of Anilao, Iloilo stepped into her destiny — crowned Miss Iloilo 2026 after a competition that demanded far more than beauty. It was a triumph defined by consistency across every segment, a calm confidence under pressure, and a sense of purpose.&#13;
&#13;
When the crown finally settled, Espinosa’s reaction captured the gravity of the moment.&#13;
&#13;
“I am overwhelmed, yet it is a magical thing to win a crown tonight and to go home with this. I can sleep peacefully knowing that I’ve done my best, and I’ve snatched the crown,” she said — equal parts disbelief and quiet fulfillment.&#13;
&#13;
For those who followed her journey through the pageant season, the win felt earned: disciplined preparation, clear articulation, and heartfelt advocacy converged at the right time.&#13;
&#13;
A Night of Standout Performances&#13;
&#13;
Espinosa’s command of the stage translated into a sweep of major awards — Best in Gown, Best in Swimsuit, and Best in Introduction Video — markers of a candidate who understood both presentation and message.&#13;
&#13;
Close behind her was Patricia Lynn Beerda of Iloilo City’s La Paz district whose depth and polish shone through with Best in Advocacy and Tourism Video, Best in Closed-Door Interview, and Best in Runway Model.&#13;
&#13;
The pageant also celebrated camaraderie and versatility. Meluxielle Stazey De Ramos of Batad, Iloilo earned Miss Goodwill and Best in SMART Choice, while Kryshia Danica Ferguson of Badiangan, Iloilo claimed Best in Mags Casual Wear.&#13;
&#13;
Creativity took center stage in the Best in Costume Competition, shared by Beerda, Ferguson, Wayncy Nagpaton of Miag-ao, Iloilo (East); Hana Tiffany Christen of Janiuay, Iloilo; Jessica Mae Gatungay of Guimbal, Iloilo; and Angel Ann Teruel of Pototan, Iloilo — a testament to the breadth of talent across the field.&#13;
&#13;
Heartfelt Queens, United Purpose&#13;
&#13;
Joining Espinosa on the national path are the Miss Iloilo 2026 Heartfelt Queens — Lorraine Manguiat of Tubungan, Angel Ann Teruel of Pototan, Jessica Mae Gatungay of Guimbal, and Patricia Lynn Beerda of La Paz — each carrying her own platform and promise to elevate Iloilo’s voice beyond the province.&#13;
&#13;
Adding resonance to the coronation was the presence of past queens, a living timeline of leadership and service. Among them were Rabiya Mateo (Miss Iloilo 2020), Dorothy Gemillan (2022), Shaine Saulog (2023), Alexie Caimoso Brooks (2024), Heartfelt Queens Rhea Marissa Puyong and Elaine Segura (2025), and Karen Nicole Piccio (Miss Iloilo 2025). Their attendance underscored what the crown signifies: continuity, mentorship, and an enduring commitment to community impact.&#13;
&#13;
Measured by Masters&#13;
&#13;
The judging panel — business executives Joe Marie Layson and Mags Cue, Mateo, beauty pageant mogul Jonas Gaffud, and shoe designer and entrepreneur Jojo Bragais — evaluated the candidates on beauty, intelligence, advocacy, and overall impact. In that rigorous crucible, Espinosa’s steadiness stood out.&#13;
&#13;
As Miss Iloilo 2026, Espinosa carries expectations — to represent Iloilo with integrity, to champion advocacies with empathy, and to embody the grace and grit of Ilonggas everywhere. If coronation night was any indication, her reign promises to be one where poise meets purpose — and where the crown is only the beginning./PN&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
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              <text>Ladiao, M. T. [ 2026, January 19 ]. A crown earned in poise and purpose: Anilao lass rises as Miss Iloilo 2026. Panay News, 1-2.</text>
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                <text>ILOILO City – On a night stitched together by elegance, resolve, and unmistakable Ilongga pride, Zestah Shalom Espinosa of Anilao, Iloilo stepped into her destiny — crowned Miss Iloilo 2026 after a competition that demanded far more than beauty. It was a triumph defined by consistency across every segment, a calm confidence under pressure, and a sense of purpose.</text>
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              <text>ACROSS BORDERS, ACROSS CANVASES: UP Visayas show links migration to modern Philippine art&#13;
By Darlene Delgado -Tuesday, January 20, 2026&#13;
Nena Saguil’s “Fontainebleau” (1954), oil on canvas&#13;
Nena Saguil’s “Fontainebleau” (1954), oil on canvas&#13;
&#13;
ILOILO City – For many Filipinos, migration is a family story that repeats across generations. A new exhibition at the University of the Philippines Visayas places that experience at the center of Philippine modern art, tracing how movement across countries shaped both artists and the work they produced.&#13;
&#13;
The UP Visayas Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage (UPV MACH) will open “Sown by the Traveler: Women and Migrants in Philippine Art” on Jan. 23, 2025, at 5 p.m. at the Pagwa Performing Arts Hall. The show features 16 paintings from the Lopez Museum and Library Collection.&#13;
&#13;
Alfonso Ossorio’s “Faineants” / “Loafers” (1945), watercolor and ink on paper&#13;
Curated by Dr. Patrick Flores, the exhibit gathers works by artists whose careers unfolded through study, residence, and practice beyond the Philippines. It frames modernism as a story of circulation, with ideas, techniques, and influences carried across borders.&#13;
&#13;
Included are paintings by Anita Magsaysay-Ho, Nena Saguil, Alfonso Ossorio, Juvenal Sanso, Macario Vitalis, and Fernando Zóbel. UPV MACH said these artists’ lives and practices were shaped by migration and transnational experience.&#13;
&#13;
The museum described the exhibit as the second cycle of its collaborative project with the Lopez Museum and Library. The first cycle, “The Patrimony of All,” drew attention for presenting works by Juan Luna, Félix Resurrección Hidalgo, Fernando Amorsolo, and Juan Arellano.&#13;
&#13;
The two-cycle project was initiated by former Sen. Franklin Drilon, with government funding ensured by Sen. Loren Legarda, according to UPV MACH. The Iloilo City Government and the Eugenio Lopez Foundation, Inc. are also partners.&#13;
&#13;
UPV MACH will be open during the Dinagyang Festival weekend on Jan. 24–25. Visitors in Iloilo and nearby provinces can view the exhibit as part of the festival week’s cultural offerings.&#13;
&#13;
Regular museum hours thereafter will be Monday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The exhibition will run until the first week of June 2026./PN&#13;
&#13;
(caption1)&#13;
&#13;
Nena Saguil’s “Fontainebleau” (1954), oil on canvas&#13;
&#13;
(caption2)&#13;
&#13;
Alfonso Ossorio’s “Faineants” / “Loafers” (1945), watercolor and ink on paper&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
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              <text>Dinagyang ILOmination tribes to bring special performances to Iloilo Food Festival&#13;
By Ma. Theresa Ladiao -Tuesday, January 20, 2026&#13;
&#13;
ILOmination, one of the major highlights of this year’s Dinagyang Festival, is scheduled on January 23 at 5 p.m. It features Dinagyang warriors in glowing costumes. ILOILO CITY MAYOR’S OFFICE PHOTO&#13;
&#13;
ILOILO City — Foodies at the Iloilo Food Festival will get an added treat as participating tribes of the Dinagyang ILOmination contest stage a special performance on Saturday evening, January 24, bringing the energy of the light festival closer to diners and visitors.&#13;
&#13;
Mayor Raisa Treñas said she requested the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI) to mount a short but dynamic presentation for food festival patrons.&#13;
&#13;
“We want everyone enjoying our local cuisine to also experience the color, movement, and excitement of ILOmination,” Treñas said, adding that the activity highlights how Dinagyang continues to innovate while remaining inclusive and accessible to the public.&#13;
&#13;
The special performance will be staged on a 360-degree setup, with the platform positioned at the center and surrounded by food kiosks and activity areas, allowing spectators to view the show from all angles.&#13;
&#13;
Treñas said the interactive layout is meant to enhance the overall festival experience, blending food, culture, and performance into one immersive event.&#13;
&#13;
“We want people to feel the festival, to be part of it — whether they come for the food, the lights, or the performances,” she said.&#13;
&#13;
Dinagyang ILOmination, one of the major highlights of this year’s festival, is scheduled on January 23 at 5 p.m.&#13;
&#13;
The illuminated parade will start at Atria, pass through SM City Iloilo, and end at Iloilo Business Park (Megaworld), featuring five competing light festival contingents from across the country.&#13;
&#13;
Contingents are local illumination tribes, joined by guest contingents including the Pandang Gitab Festival of Lights of Oriental Mindoro, Bana-ag Festival of Anilao in Iloilo, PAVVURULUN AFI Festival of Tuguegarao City, and Zamboanga Hermosa of Zamboanga City.&#13;
&#13;
Adding to the festive atmosphere, a special lion and dragon dance performance by the Iloilo Cultural Federation Inc. will also be staged in celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year./PN&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
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              <text>Iloilo City expands autism services, cements status as leading child-friendly city&#13;
By Ma. Theresa Ladiao -Tuesday, January 20, 2026&#13;
Discover more&#13;
Fridge&#13;
ILOILO City – Fresh from its recognition as one of the country’s top child-friendly cities, the city government is ramping up programs for children with autism, with Mayor Raisa Treñas reaffirming the city’s push for inclusive governance and expanded early-intervention services.&#13;
&#13;
Speaking during Monday’s flag-raising ceremony attended by members of the Autism Society of the Philippines (ASP) Iloilo Chapter, Treñas said the city’s child-friendly agenda must deliberately include children with special needs to ensure no one is excluded from public services.&#13;
&#13;
“This recognition reminds us that building a child-friendly city means listening to every child and making sure no one is left behind,” the mayor said.&#13;
&#13;
Treñas cited Iloilo City’s recent citation as Most Child-Friendly City, where it placed among the Top 4 finalists for 2025, as proof of sustained efforts to protect children’s welfare and promote inclusive policies.&#13;
&#13;
“This is not just an award for the city government, but for every Ilonggo who believes that children — regardless of their condition — deserve care, respect, and equal opportunities,” she said, stressing that the city will continue to advance programs that empower children and their families.&#13;
&#13;
Central to these efforts is the city’s newest initiative for children with special needs — the SPED Daycare Center or RiseAble Center, launched in October 2025. Treñas said the centers form part of the city’s broader Autism Campaign and are designed to provide early intervention services that help children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) become more functional and independent.&#13;
&#13;
“Early intervention is very important. When we invest in our children early, we give them a better chance to grow, learn, and thrive,” she said.&#13;
&#13;
The mayor emphasized that all services offered at the SPED Daycare or RiseAble Centers are free for Iloilo City residents, underscoring the city government’s commitment to making care accessible to all families. She also announced that free assessment services for children enrolled in SPED Centers will be rolled out this year.&#13;
&#13;
“The welfare of our children, especially those with autism, is very close to my heart. We will continue to expand programs that support them and their families,” Treñas said, reiterating her vision of Iloilo City as a safe, inclusive, and truly child-friendly community./PN&#13;
&#13;
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              <text>Global dignitaries, senators to attend Dinagyang&#13;
By Ma. Theresa Ladiao -Tuesday, January 20, 2026&#13;
&#13;
ILOILO City – This city is set to welcome a high-level mix of foreign diplomats and national leaders during the Dinagyang Festival, a turnout city officials say reflects the festival’s rising stature as both a cultural showcase and a platform for international engagement.&#13;
&#13;
Leading the list of expected guests are ambassadors Lee Sang-hwa (South Korea), Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke (Germany), David Hartman (Canada), and Endo Kazuya (Japan), along with Mayor Kevin J.T. Susuico (Hagat, Guam) and a representative from Taiwan.&#13;
&#13;
Senators Bam Aquino and Bong Go are also slated to attend key festival events.&#13;
&#13;
Mayor Raisa Treñas said the dignitaries are expected to witness the festival’s major highlights, Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan on January 24 and the Ati tribes competition on January 25. Some guests may also attend the ILOmination light performance showcase on January 23, depending on their schedules.&#13;
&#13;
The mayor said the presence of ambassadors, senators, and international guests highlights Iloilo City’s expanding global ties and reinforces its image as a people-centered city anchored on culture and faith.&#13;
&#13;
She added that many of the visiting diplomats represent partner embassies with existing exchange programs and collaborative projects with the city, making their participation both symbolic and strategic.&#13;
&#13;
“Dinagyang is our way of sharing Iloilo’s soul with the world — our faith, culture, creativity, and hospitality,” Treñas said, noting that the city has prepared a special heritage and development tour for the guests to showcase Iloilo’s historic sites, cultural landmarks, and flagship projects.&#13;
&#13;
Treñas stressed that hosting high-ranking local and foreign visitors during Dinagyang not only enhances the festival’s prestige but also strengthens Iloilo City’s position as a destination for tourism, investment, and international cooperation, while giving Ilonggos the opportunity to present their traditions on a global stage./PN&#13;
&#13;
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              <text>‘Vehicular crashes a public safety threat’&#13;
By Ime Sornito -Thursday, January 15, 2026&#13;
“Ang vehicular accidents are such a burden on our health care system… Ang gasto natin sa hospital sa mga vehicular accidents na dapat wala naman, malaki ’yan,” says Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. of Iloilo Province.&#13;
“Ang vehicular accidents are such a burden on our health care system… Ang gasto natin sa hospital sa mga vehicular accidents na dapat wala naman, malaki ’yan,” says Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. of Iloilo Province.&#13;
&#13;
ILOILO – Alarmed by the continued rise in vehicular crashes in the province, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has ordered the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) to intensify road safety enforcement.&#13;
&#13;
Defensor issued the directive during the New Year’s Call of the IPPO and chiefs of police of Iloilo’s 43 local government units on Wednesday, January 14, at Casa Real, following the police report showing a 6.28 percent increase in vehicular crashes in 2025 compared to the previous year.&#13;
&#13;
“Alam kong marami tayong ginagawa na importante. Number 1 vehicular accidents… malaking problema ’yon dahil it is danger to our health, harmful to our people. Number two, ang vehicular accidents are such a burden on our health care system… Ang gasto natin sa hospital sa mga vehicular accidents na dapat wala naman, malaki ’yan,” Defensor said.&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
He directed IPPO director Police Colonel Bayani Razalan to order all municipal police stations to submit an inventory of crash-prone areas, damaged roads, poorly lit stretches, and locations lacking road signages, noting that crashes are often caused by drunk driving and unsafe road conditions.&#13;
&#13;
“Bigyan niyo kami ng imbentaryo so that we can address it,” the governor said, adding that the provincial government will coordinate with the Department of Public Works and Highways and other concerned agencies once hazards are identified.&#13;
&#13;
On drunk driving, Defensor pushed for more aggressive random checkpoints and the use of breath analyzers, even offering provincial assistance to procure the equipment if needed.&#13;
&#13;
“Ang kalasingan medyo iba ang solution diyan… are we in a position to random checkpoint… ‘yung test or breath analyzer may ganun ba tayo? Kung wala, I’m willing to help,” he said.&#13;
&#13;
Police data presented during the meeting showed that vehicular accidents rose to 5,341 cases in 2025 from 5,025 in 2024, with increases in reckless imprudence cases resulting in damage to property, physical injury, and homicide.&#13;
&#13;
“Public safety indicators post a growing challenge… the overall rise in road-related incidents underscores the urgent need for intensified traffic law enforcement, road safety campaigns, and public awareness initiatives,” the IPPO accomplishment report stated./PN&#13;
&#13;
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              <text>NewsIloilo&#13;
Study finds early mother-tongue teaching improves English, Filipino reading&#13;
By Darlene Delgado -Tuesday, January 13, 2026&#13;
&#13;
ILOILO City – Teaching children to read first in their own language leads to stronger literacy in English and Filipino, not weaker skills, according to a major international study released Jan. 6.&#13;
&#13;
The Language of Instruction Transition in Education Systems (LITES) research, led by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies with the University of Notre Dame, tracked about 1,200 pupils in 60 public schools and compared outcomes across six low- and middle-income countries, including the Philippines.&#13;
&#13;
Students who began reading in their mother tongue scored significantly higher in English and Filipino by Grade 4 — among the strongest gains recorded in local literacy research. The study found that early first-language instruction actually speeds up second-language learning.&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
Teacher beliefs and classroom practice proved decisive. Pupils performed better when teachers viewed mother-tongue literacy as a foundation for later learning and when classes used deliberate code-switching. Access to mother-tongue books also boosted reading fluency, while in-service teacher training delivered better results than pre-service preparation alone.&#13;
&#13;
The researchers say these findings undercut claims that mother tongue-based multilingual education failed. Instead, uneven funding, limited materials, gaps in teacher deployment and frequent policy shifts weakened implementation.&#13;
&#13;
As the Philippines adjusts its language policy under the MATATAG curriculum, the study urges evidence-based planning: coordinated funding, stronger in-service training, adequate textbooks, and sustained support — especially for Indigenous and linguistically diverse learners—to preserve gains and avoid repeating policy reversals./PN&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
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              <text>8 LGUs to receive provincial tourism aid under new ‘Turista sa Barangay’ order&#13;
By Ime Sornito -Tuesday, January 13, 2026&#13;
Tultugan Festival during the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan Opening Salvo on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Photo courtesy of Mai Ladiao/PN&#13;
Tultugan Festival during the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan Opening Salvo on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Photo courtesy of Mai Ladiao/PN&#13;
&#13;
ILOILO — The Iloilo provincial government has rolled out the first phase of its new tourism development program, naming eight local government units (LGUs) as initial beneficiaries of financial and technical assistance under the “Turista sa Barangay for MoRProGRes Iloilo” executive order, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. announced.&#13;
&#13;
The initial recipients are the eight LGUs with contingents in the upcoming Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan competition, one of the major highlights of the Dinagyang Festival.&#13;
&#13;
Defensor said the timing of the program’s implementation is deliberate, coinciding with the start of the fiscal year when fresh budget allocations are available to support local tourism initiatives.&#13;
&#13;
Under the executive order, the province will provide festival-linked assistance tailored to the unique tourism assets of each LGU.&#13;
&#13;
In Banate, Defensor said provincial funds will be released in support of the Kasag Festival, alongside plans to establish a blue crab hatchery in the municipality.&#13;
&#13;
“What we want to see there, every time may Kasag Festival sa Banate, we will start the affair sa dispersal sang kasag sa Banate Bay. May blue cab hatchery kita sa Concepcion, so we also want nga may one kita sa Banate,” Defensor said.&#13;
&#13;
For Zarraga, which hosts the Pantat Festival, the provincial government plans to set up a pantat hatchery. Preparatory work has already begun, including the establishment of a water system last year.&#13;
&#13;
Meanwhile, in Bingawan, home of the Pagnahi-an Festival, Defensor said funding will be released to support “slow food” initiatives tied to local culture and agriculture.&#13;
&#13;
“This is in addition to the assistance that we will give to the tribes, we will give other form of assistance based on executive order,” the governor added.&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
Defensor emphasized that provincial support will go beyond financial aid, covering capacity-building programs, partnerships, and infrastructure development. Funding for the executive order will be sourced from the province’s share in the National Tax Allocation (NTA).&#13;
&#13;
While priority will be given to the eight Kasadyahan participants this year, Defensor said other LGUs will follow as the province aims to elevate the festivals of all 43 municipalities and component cities in Iloilo.&#13;
&#13;
The eight tribes competing in Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan are:&#13;
&#13;
* Jimanban Festival of New Lucena&#13;
&#13;
* Tawili Festival of San Rafael&#13;
&#13;
* Salakayan Festival of Miag-ao&#13;
&#13;
* Pagnahi-an Festival of Bingawan&#13;
&#13;
* Tultugan Festival of Maasin&#13;
&#13;
* Kasag Festival of Banate&#13;
&#13;
* Kahilwayan Festival of Santa Barbara&#13;
&#13;
* Banaag Festival of Anilao/PN&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
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                <text>ILOILO — The Iloilo provincial government has rolled out the first phase of its new tourism development program, naming eight local government units (LGUs) as initial beneficiaries of financial and technical assistance under the “Turista sa Barangay for MoRProGRes Iloilo” executive order, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. announced.</text>
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              <text>DOH cautions Ilonggos vs surge of ‘W.I.L.D.’ diseases&#13;
By Neljoy N. Galigao -Monday, January 12, 2026&#13;
&#13;
ILOILO — With persistent rains raising the risk of disease outbreaks, the Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas has issued a health advisory urging Ilonggos to remain alert against a cluster of illnesses linked to flooding and wet weather, collectively referred to as W.I.L.D. diseases.&#13;
&#13;
Health officials warned that increased rainfall heightens exposure to waterborne diseases, influenza-like illnesses, leptospirosis, and dengue fever, as flooding, stagnant water, and damp conditions create ideal environments for pathogens and disease-carrying mosquitoes.&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
Waterborne diseases such as cholera, hepatitis A, and diarrhea may spread when sewage systems overflow and contaminate water sources.&#13;
&#13;
DOH Region 6 advised the public to boil or properly treat water before drinking or using it for food preparation.&#13;
&#13;
Influenza-like illnesses, which present with fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue, also tend to increase during cool and damp weather. Health authorities stressed the importance of regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.&#13;
&#13;
Leptospirosis, a potentially fatal bacterial infection, can be contracted through floodwaters contaminated with the urine of infected animals, particularly rats. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, and jaundice.&#13;
&#13;
DOH-6 emphasized that individuals exposed to floodwaters should seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear, as early diagnosis is critical.&#13;
&#13;
Dengue fever, meanwhile, remains a major concern during the rainy season as the Aedes aegypti mosquito breeds in stagnant water. High fever, joint pain, extreme fatigue, and severe headaches are among its symptoms. Residents were urged to eliminate standing water around homes and use mosquito repellents.&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
“To safeguard yourself and your family, stay informed by keeping an eye on weather updates and health advisories,” DOH-6 said.&#13;
&#13;
The health department also reminded the public to monitor advisories, limit exposure during heavy rains, and promptly consult healthcare providers if symptoms develop.&#13;
&#13;
Those experiencing illness were advised to contact the DOH Teleconsultation Hotline at 1555 (Press 2) for immediate medical guidance.&#13;
&#13;
“Prioritize your health and safety, and encourage your neighbors to do the same,” DOH-6 added./PN&#13;
&#13;
&#13;
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              <text>Graciano Lopez Jaena descendants push to make Dec. 18 a nat’l holiday&#13;
By Ime Sornito -Friday, December 19, 2025&#13;
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ILOILO City — Descendants of Ilonggo patriot Graciano Lopez Jaena are renewing their call for the birth anniversary of the hero to be declared a national holiday, arguing that the legacy of the country’s pioneering revolutionary writer deserves recognition beyond Panay and Guimaras islands.&#13;
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December 18 is currently observed only as a local or regional holiday, but the descendants of Lopez Jaena want it elevated to national status to raise public awareness — especially among the youth — of his role in igniting the Philippine struggle for freedom through the written word.&#13;
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Francis Cruz, spokesperson of the Lopez Jaena family, said it is troubling that many Filipinos are unfamiliar with the contributions of Iloilo’s first national hero despite his influence on the reform movement against Spanish colonial rule.&#13;
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“Many of our young generations waay kabalo sang istorya sang aton nga mga heroes, especially local heroes. (For Graciano Lopez Jaena) gina-try namon obrahon sia national holiday so that makita man nila. Subong ara pa lang sa regional level, Panay pa lang,” said Cruz.&#13;
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He added: “Ang masubo sina, may mga tawo gani nga ulihi, tiempo pa ni (former President) Cory (Aquino) (but may) national sila ‘ya nga holidays. Kita ya (may) national hero nga naghatag sa aton sang freedom from 300 years of Spainish occupation. (Lopez Jaena was) one of the first nga nag-spark sang revolution (against Spain), nag-start freedom for the Philippines yet he is only recognized sa region, diri lang sa Panay kag Guimaras. That is a very sad truth.”&#13;
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While the declaration of a national holiday remains pending, Cruz said the Dr. Graciano Lopez Jaena Foundation is intensifying efforts to introduce the hero’s life and ideals to a wider audience, particularly the younger generation.&#13;
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A building has been established along Fajardo Street in Jaro district — Lopez Jaena’s birthplace — to house memorabilia, host conferences and activities, and serve as a center for historical education.&#13;
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The foundation has also produced a film on Lopez Jaena’s life, which is open for public viewing.&#13;
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Cruz said the family hopes Ilonggos and Filipinos alike will draw inspiration from Lopez Jaena’s values, especially his commitment to truth and ethical journalism at a time when misinformation is widespread.&#13;
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“We hope you have the time to know about our local hero, Graciano Lopez Jaena nga daku ang bulig sa gina-enjoy naton nga freedom. We hope for matuod lang nga journalism, matuod nga balita, kag matuod nga istorya. Nagadamo ang fake news nga maka-mislead sa kadamoan,” Cruz added.&#13;
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A contemporary of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, Graciano Lopez Jaena was born in Jaro to Placido Lopez and Maria Jacoba Jaena. He died of tuberculosis at the age of 39 on January 20, 1896, in Barcelona, Spain, while in exile.&#13;
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Renowned as a brilliant writer, orator, and reformist, Lopez Jaena was a fearless critic of abuses during the Spanish colonial period. His satirical essay “Fray Botod” exposed the excesses of friars and helped awaken Filipinos to systemic injustice.&#13;
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As founder and first editor of the pro-Filipino newspaper La Solidaridad, Lopez Jaena became a central figure of the Propaganda Movement, advocating peaceful reforms, equal rights, and Filipino representation in the Spanish government — principles that remain relevant in Philippine society today./PN&#13;
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