6 10 362 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document WVSU dominates licensure exam for teachers, tops both elementary and secondary levels; University produces three topnotchers By Neljoy N. Galigao -Saturday, December 20, 2025 ILOILO City – West Visayas State University (WVSU) once again asserted its dominance in teacher education by emerging as Top 1 Best Performing School in both the elementary and secondary levels of the 2025 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LET), producing three national topnotchers and posting near-perfect passing rates across programs. WVSU logged a 99.26 percent passing rate in the elementary level after 134 of 135 examinees from its Main Campus passed the exam, while 241 of 242 takers hurdled the secondary level for a 99.59 percent passing rate, also earning the university the top spot nationwide. Capping the university’s standout performance, three WVSU graduates landed in the national Top 10 of the September and November 2025 LET. Bea Mae E. Balanza, a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English from the Main Campus in La Paz, Iloilo City, placed 9th with a 93.20 percent rating, while fellow Main Campus graduate Franchesca Kimberly Ann Louise Anib Altes, also an English major, ranked 10th with 93.00 percent. Another WVSU graduate, Mary Diane Garcia Dulay of the Himamaylan Campus, also secured a 10th-place finish with a 93 percent rating in the same secondary education category. WVSU president Dr. Joselito Villaruz said the 2025 LET marked a milestone for the university, noting that it was the first time both elementary and secondary results were simultaneously considered in national rankings. “We’ve always maintained a culture of excellence at WVSU, starting with a careful selection process of students entering our programs, followed by high-quality instruction throughout their academic journey,” Villaruz said. He underscored the role of faculty mentorship and institutional support in sustaining WVSU’s performance. “Our dedicated faculty members play a crucial role in nurturing our students’ talents and preparing them for successful careers as educators,” Villaruz added. While celebrating the university’s sweeping success, Villaruz acknowledged that two WVSU graduates did not pass the examination, describing the outcome as a temporary hurdle. “We remain supportive of these two students. It’s just a minor setback; with resilience and preparation, we believe they will succeed in future attempts,” he said. Nationally, the LET remained highly competitive, with 57,729 of 79,493 examinees passing at the secondary level, and 21,967 of 43,035 passing at the elementary level—figures that further highlighted WVSU’s exceptional performance relative to the national average. Education officials said WVSU’s results reinforce its reputation as one of the country’s leading teacher-training institutions, setting a benchmark for excellence in licensure performance and educator preparation./PN Citation Citation of the article Galigao, N. [ 2025, December 20 ]. WVSU dominates licensure exam for teachers, tops both elementary and secondary levels; University produces three topnotchers. Panay News, 3&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource WVSU dominates licensure exam for teachers, tops both elementary and secondary levels; University produces three topnotchers Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – West Visayas State University (WVSU) once again asserted its dominance in teacher education by emerging as Top 1 Best Performing School in both the elementary and secondary levels of the 2025 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LET), producing three national topnotchers and posting near-perfect passing rates across programs. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Galigao, Neljoy Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/wvsu-dominates-licensure-exam-for-teachers-tops-both-elementary-and-secondary-levels-university-produces-three-topnotchers/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/wvsu-dominates-licensure-exam-for-teachers-tops-both-elementary-and-secondary-levels-university-produces-three-topnotchers/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource December 20, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Teachers Licensure examination State universities and colleges Academic achievement Himamaylan Iloilo City West Visayas State University Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Governor underscores rehabilitation, reintegration in holiday outreach By Ime Sornito -Monday, December 22, 2025 ILOILO — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. marked the Christmas season with a strong message of hope and rehabilitation as he personally distributed gift packs to some 2,000 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Iloilo District Jail (IDJ) in Barangay Nanga, Pototan town. Defensor personally led the distribution of P350-worth gift packs containing food and basic necessities, describing the activity as part of a long-standing holiday tradition aimed at reminding inmates that they are not forgotten during the festive season. He was joined by officials of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Region 6, including Regional Director Senior Superintendent Jhon Montero, Jail Administrator Atty. Jairus Anthony Dogelio, and IDJ Warden Chief Inspector Mark Malhabour. The governor said the annual gift-giving reflects the true spirit of Christmas — sharing, forgiveness, and hope — and builds on a tradition started by his father, former governor Arthur Defensor Sr., in partnership with the Iloilo Provincial Employees and Community Multi-purpose Cooperative. Beyond the holiday gesture, Defensor reiterated his commitment to long-term reforms at the jail, including plans to convert the facility into a training center that would equip PDLs with practical skills for life after detention. He also pledged to address basic needs in the area, particularly water supply and other essential utilities. For many inmates, the visit brought a rare sense of warmth and dignity during the holidays, with one PDL capturing the moment by saying, “Ibang-iba talaga, ang pasko sa Nanga.”/PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2025, December 22 ]. Governor underscores rehabilitation, reintegration in holiday outreach. Panay News, 2&23. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Governor underscores rehabilitation, reintegration in holiday outreach Description An account of the resource ILOILO — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. marked the Christmas season with a strong message of hope and rehabilitation as he personally distributed gift packs to some 2,000 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Iloilo District Jail (IDJ) in Barangay Nanga, Pototan town. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/governor-underscores-rehabilitation-reintegration-in-holiday-outreach/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/governor-underscores-rehabilitation-reintegration-in-holiday-outreach/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource December 22, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Prisoners Rehabilitation Christmas Bureau of Jail Management Iloilo Provincial Government Pototan Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Iloilo adopts ‘zero tolerance’ policy on violence vs women By Ime Sornito -Monday, December 15, 2025 ILOILO — The Iloilo provincial government has adopted a firm “zero tolerance” stance against all forms of violence against women, with Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. ordering the full use of the law and provincial resources to protect victims and hold abusers accountable. The directive was announced during the culmination of the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol lobby on December 10, with Provincial Administrator Raul Banias delivering the governor’s message. “Governor Toto’s marching order is simple: Zero Tolerance. In the Province of Iloilo, abuse has no place. Whether it is physical, emotional, or economic abuse, we will use the full force of the law and the full resources of the Capitol to protect the vulnerable. We are building a province where safety is a right, not a privilege,” Banias said. Banias stressed that the end of the 18-day campaign does not mark the end of the provincial government’s efforts, but rather a renewed commitment for the rest of the year. “As we gather here and close this campaign, let us take the ‘Naked Truth’ with us… Let us not turn away when we see signs of abuse. Let us be the neighbors who listen, the officials who act, and the community that cares,” he said. He added that the culmination activity is “not the end of our work, but the day we renew our vow for the next 347 days of the year.” Drawing from both his medical and administrative background, Banias said violence leaves not only visible physical injuries but also deeper, unseen wounds. “As a medical doctor, I have seen the physical scars of violence. But as an administrator, I know the invisible scars are often deeper,” he said. He described the campaign’s theme, “Hublas ng Kamatuoran sa Pag-abuso” (Naked Truth on Abuse), as a call to expose violence that often occurs behind closed doors. “The naked truth is that violence against women and children often happens in the shadows—behind closed doors, silenced by fear, and sometimes, enabled by a culture of indifference,” Banias said. “We are here today to strip away that silence. Under the leadership of Governor Toto Defensor, the Province of Iloilo recognizes that we cannot claim to be a progressive province if our mothers, daughters, and sisters are not safe in their own homes,” he added. Banias emphasized that economic growth must go hand in hand with social justice, noting that the province’s development framework, MoRProGRes Iloilo, places resilience and social protection at its core. As part of its sustained anti-VAW drive, Banias reiterated several concrete commitments of the provincial government, including the strengthening of frontline services through fully functional VAW desks down to the barangay level. He said Barangay VAW Desk Officers are being equipped not only with logbooks but also with empathy and legal knowledge to respond immediately to victim-survivors. The province is also reinforcing psychosocial and legal support systems through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), ensuring access to counseling and legal assistance, with support from the Philippine National Police and the Public Attorney’s Office. Banias likewise called on men to take an active role in ending violence against women. “Ending VAW is not just a woman’s issue; it is a man’s issue,” he said. “We need more men to stand up against toxic behavior and speak out when they witness harassment.” The culminating activity was spearheaded by the PSWDO in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 6, the Department of Health–Western Visayas Center for Health Development, and the Regional Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children (RCAT-VAWC)./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2025, December 15 ]. Iloilo adopts ‘zero tolerance’ policy on violence vs women. Panay News, 4&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo adopts ‘zero tolerance’ policy on violence vs women Description An account of the resource ILOILO — The Iloilo provincial government has adopted a firm “zero tolerance” stance against all forms of violence against women, with Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. ordering the full use of the law and provincial resources to protect victims and hold abusers accountable. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-adopts-zero-tolerance-policy-on-violence-vs-women/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-adopts-zero-tolerance-policy-on-violence-vs-women/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource December 15, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Women--Violence against Victims of family violence Social services Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 6 Iloilo Provincial Government loilo Provincial Capitol Regional Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children (RCAT-VAWC) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Iloilo most outstanding PH province in population and development programs By Ime Sornito -Saturday, December 13, 2025 ILOILO — The Province of Iloilo has been declared the national champion of the 2025 Rafael M. Salas Kaunlarang Pantao Award (RMSKPA), emerging as the Most Outstanding Local Government Unit in Localizing the Population and Development (PopDev) Agenda and besting 81 other provinces nationwide. The prestigious recognition, conferred by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD), underscores Iloilo’s aggressive and sustained investments in youth development, family welfare, population management, and human development programs. Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. personally received the award during recent ceremonies in Metro Manila, together with Vice Gov. Lee Ann Debuque, CPD Region 6 director Harold Alfred Marshall, and Provincial Population Office (PPO) head Atty. Ruel Von Superio. They were joined by Provincial Health Officer Dr. Maria Socorro Quiñon and Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office-in-charge Rani Melvi Cuarte. “PopDev is about the development of the most important resource of our country—our people, because there is nothing more important than our people,” Defensor said. The province’s winning edge was anchored on the work of the Provincial Population Office, led by Atty. Superio, which has been at the forefront of implementing population and development initiatives across Iloilo. Under his leadership, Iloilo now has the highest number of school-based multi-purpose teen centers in the country, with 102 teen centers established in secondary schools throughout the province. These facilities serve as safe spaces for adolescents and play a key role in addressing teenage pregnancy, youth-related concerns, and child malnutrition, among other issues. Complementing these initiatives is the province’s rollout of Family and Youth Development Centers (FYDCs) in various municipalities, designed to strengthen family relationships and foster community cohesion. The PPO also maintains a comprehensive and updated population databank covering all 43 local government units in the province, a system cited by CPD as a model for evidence-based planning and governance. “With humility and profound gratitude, we proudly celebrate this national achievement as the national champion — the Most Outstanding Province in Localizing the Population and Development (POPDEV) Agenda in the entire Philippines, rising above 81 other provinces,” Atty. Superio said. “This honor does not belong to a single office—it belongs to the whole Province of Iloilo, united by purpose and strengthened by our shared commitment to touching the lives of every Ilonggo in pursuit of total human development.” Along with the title, Iloilo received a plaque of recognition and a P300,000 localization cash prize, handed over by Executive Director V and Undersecretary Lisa Grace Bersales and Deputy Executive Director Lolito Tacardon. The Rafael M. Salas Kaunlarang Pantao Award is among the country’s most prestigious honors for population and development, recognizing individuals and LGUs that demonstrate excellence and innovation in advancing human development initiatives nationwide./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. [ 2025, December 13 ]. Iloilo most outstanding PH province in population and development programs. Panay News, 3&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo most outstanding PH province in population and development programs Description An account of the resource ILOILO — The Province of Iloilo has been declared the national champion of the 2025 Rafael M. Salas Kaunlarang Pantao Award (RMSKPA), emerging as the Most Outstanding Local Government Unit in Localizing the Population and Development (PopDev) Agenda and besting 81 other provinces nationwide. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-most-outstanding-ph-province-in-population-and-development-programs/" title="Panay News" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-most-outstanding-ph-province-in-population-and-development-programs/</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource December 13, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Population policy Public welfare Iloilo Province Provincial Health Office (PHO) Provincial Population Office (PPO) Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Mamon elected unopposed as new LMP-Iloilo president By Neljoy N. Galigao -Monday, September 1, 2025 ILOILO – Badiangan’s Mayor Suzette Mamon has officially taken the helm of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) – Iloilo Chapter after winning the presidency unopposed in an election held on August 30. Mamon’s rise to the post was widely expected after Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. publicly endorsed her candidacy in July, citing her “extensive experience and demonstrated potential to lead the league.” She previously served as LMP-Iloilo vice president and was regarded as the natural successor of outgoing president, San Enrique mayor Rosario Mediatrix Fernandez. The nomination process saw Miag-ao mayor Oscar “Richard” Garin endorsing Mamon without any opposition, leading to her proclamation. Newly elected officers also took their oath before Defensor during the same event. “I have served as an officer for many years and have done so voluntarily. The Mayor’s League functions as a consultative, participative, and collaborative organization. It provides a platform for all local government units (LGUs) and mayors to engage in cooperative efforts and develop beneficial programs originating from our Governor. We are consistently prepared to collaborate and disseminate these initiatives within our respective LGUs,” Mamon said in her acceptance speech. Mamon, known for her inclusive and participative leadership style, vowed to strengthen cooperation among Iloilo’s municipalities during her 2025-2028 term. Newly Elected LMP-Iloilo Officers (2025-2028) * President – Mayor Suzette A. Mamon (Badiangan) * Executive Vice President – Mayor Ma. Teresa F. Debuque (Anilao) * Vice President for External/Special Concerns – Mayor Oscar “Richard” S. Garin Jr. (Miag-ao) * Secretary-General – Mayor Joe Abad S. Lazaro (San Joaquin) * Treasurer – Mayor Ian Kenneth A. Alfeche (Alimodian) * Auditor – Mayor Matt P. Palabrica (Bingawan) * Business Manager – Mayor Ma. Angelica Bianca Requinto-Espinosa (Estancia) * Public Relations Officer – Mayor Ma. Jofel M. Soldevilla (Zarraga) * Sergeant-at-Arms — Mayor Rey P. Grabato (Mina) * General Legal Counsel – Mayor Virgilio T. Teruel (Tigbauan) Board of Directors * 1st District — Mayor Janette G. Colada (Guimbal), Mayor Vicente E. Escorpion Jr. (Igbaras) * 2nd District — Mayor Bonifacio Salapantan Jr. (San Miguel), Mayor Ma. Lina C. Holipas (Leon) * 3rd District — Mayor Elizalde G. Pueyo (Cabatuan), Mayor Rafael Enrique P. Lazaro (Pototan) * 4th District – Mayor Gian Carlo Niño P. Fernandez (San Enrique), Mayor Robert Martin U. Pama (Dueñas) * 5th District – Mayor Jon N. Aying (Sara), Mayor Nielo C. Tupas (Barotac Viejo)/PN Citation Citation of the article Galigao, N. [ 2025, September 1 ]. Mamon elected unopposed as new LMP-Iloilo president. Panay News, 2&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Mamon elected unopposed as new LMP-Iloilo president Description An account of the resource ILOILO – Badiangan’s Mayor Suzette Mamon has officially taken the helm of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) – Iloilo Chapter after winning the presidency unopposed in an election held on August 30. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Galigao, Neljoy Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/mamon-elected-unopposed-as-new-lmp-iloilo-president/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource September 1, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Municipal government Local government Leadership Alimodian Anilao Badiangan Barotac Viejo Bingawan Dueñas Estancia Igbaras Leon Miag-ao Mina Pototan San Joaquin Tigbauan Zarraga Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document PhilHealth expands Z-Benefit coverage; free hip, knee implants now accessible in WV By Neljoy N. Galigao -Monday, September 1, 2025 ILOILO City – Western Visayans suffering from hip fractures, arthritis, and other mobility-related illnesses may now undergo life-changing orthopedic surgeries without the crushing financial burden, as the government-owned Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) launched the Z-Benefit Package for Orthopedic Implants. The program covers expensive procedures such as hip arthroplasty, with financial assistance ranging from P48,000 to P169,400 depending on the implant used. Beneficiaries include PhilHealth members — direct and indirect contributors — and their qualified dependents who pass the clinical criteria set by accredited hospitals. “For the Z-package benefit criteria, for the joint replacement, there are certain criteria: First, the patient should be ambulatory, then the disease, either he or she has a leg fracture or arthritis, whatever the cause is in the hip joint, then that will be considered as okay to proceed, plus, the risk factors, so the anaesthesiologist will also assist the patient if there are 2-3 comorbidities only. Meaning, even after the surgery, the patient will still benefit from the surgery, not really in high risk. Those are the criteria,” explained Dr. Michael Muñoz, vice president of the Philippine Hip and Knee Society, during a press conference on Aug. 29. WVMC data show that from January to August 2023 alone, the hospital processed 444 orthopedic implant claims. The most common were arm and forearm plating (129 cases), femur intramedullary nails with interlocking screws (106), locked compression plates (59), cementless partial hip prostheses (47), and cementless total hip prostheses (29). Smaller numbers were recorded for knee prostheses, wrist plating, and other implant procedures. “That is why we prioritize orthopedic procedures here in Western Visayas — to ensure that our people, especially the Ilonggos, have the opportunity and the freedom to move around and lead productive lives. We are dedicated to improving health outcomes and empowering individuals through accessible orthopedic care,” said Dr. Guadalupe V. Matejka, WVMC chief training officer. She noted that mobility loss often forces patients into dependence on family members, creating financial strain and worsening poverty. “The Z-Benefit package provides free implants for hip and knee surgeries,” added Dr. Justinian Aquilino IV Cyril Ll. Pimentel, president of the Philippine Orthopaedic Association, crediting PhilHealth’s role in supplying implants while surgeons provide expertise. Philippine Hip and Knee Society president Dr. Herminio R. Valenzuela Jr. highlighted the urgency, saying the country conducts only 12,000–15,000 joint replacement surgeries annually, far below the estimated need of 75,000–80,000. “PhilHealth’s support, particularly through the Z-Benefit package, will be instrumental in addressing this demand and will enhance access to joint replacement surgeries for more Filipinos, especially among the elderly,” he stressed. From 2023 to August 2025, PhilHealth allocated P30.39 million to WVMC for Z-Benefit claims, including orthopedic implants, cancer care, coronary bypass grafts, and leukemia management, according to regional vice president Lazaro T. Tabsing. PhilHealth urged members to visit www.philhealth.gov.ph/PN Citation Citation of the article Galigao, N. [ 2025, September 1 ]. PhilHealth expands Z-Benefit coverage; free hip, knee implants now accessible in WV. Panay News, 3&15. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource PhilHealth expands Z-Benefit coverage; free hip, knee implants now accessible in WV Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – Western Visayans suffering from hip fractures, arthritis, and other mobility-related illnesses may now undergo life-changing orthopedic surgeries without the crushing financial burden, as the government-owned Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) launched the Z-Benefit Package for Orthopedic Implants. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Galigao, Neljoy Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/philhealth-expands-z-benefit-coverage-free-hip-knee-implants-now-accessible-in-wv/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource September 1, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Orthopedic implants Health insurance Public health Western Visayas Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document MSMEs seen as pillars of regional growth By Ime Sornito -Monday, July 7, 2025 ILOILO City – To accelerate inclusive economic recovery in Western Visayas, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 6 is mobilizing local governments, entrepreneurs, and the public in a synchronized weeklong campaign to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) — long regarded as the backbone of regional development and job creation. Anchored on the theme “Asenso Negosyo, Angat Kabuhayan: Bagong Pilipinas!” the 2025 National MSME Development Week aims to boost the capabilities of MSMEs in adapting to new market demands, digitalization, and post-pandemic business challenges. DTI-6 director Rachel Nufable emphasized the role of small businesses in sustaining growth and lifting communities out of poverty. “This is a call to action to strengthen our local enterprises, because when MSMEs thrive, communities rise with them,” Nufable said. The campaign features simultaneous activities across all six provinces and two highly urbanized cities of the region, with each DTI provincial office rolling out capacity-building programs, trade fairs, product innovation workshops, financial literacy seminars, and digital transformation training sessions from July 7 to 13. DTI-Aklan * July 7–13 – Enterprise Development Assistance/Negosyo Center Information Caravan * July 8 – Product Development Workshop * July 10 – Financial Management Training DTI-Antique * July 7–13 – Obra Antiqueño MSME Week Product Showcase * July 8 – Provincial MSME Summit DTI-Capiz * July 7 – MSME Week Launching * July 7–13 – Coffee and Cacao Festival (Year 3) * July 8 – AI Basics and Familiarity Training * July 9–11 – Youth Entrepreneurs’ Business Camp DTI-Guimaras * July 9–11 – Go Digital: Boosting MSME Growth * July 10 – Marketing Capability Training for CARP ARBOs DTI-Negros Occidental * July 7–13 – Basic Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy Seminars (32 Batches) * July 8 – Media Forum * July 11 – Seminar on Fair Trade Practices and Trademarks * July 18–25 – Negros Island and Siquijor Business Week DTI-Iloilo * July 4 – DTI-NC ACTSS (Advocacy Campaign Towards Strengthening Services to MSMEs in Barangays) * July 4 – DTI Iloilo CAN (Consultancy, Advocacy, and Networking) * July 10 – Marketplace Onboarding – Batch 2 * July 11 – Product Standardization Seminar: Flavors and Fusion – Trail Mix * July 7–20 – ILOBEX/Iloilo Coffee Festival DTI-6 said the events are expected to bring together stakeholders from the government, private sector, and the MSME community to foster collaboration and inclusivity, in line with the national goal of building a robust and competitive entrepreneurial sector./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, Ime ( 2025, July 7 ). MSMEs seen as pillars of regional growth. Panay News, 4. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource MSMEs seen as pillars of regional growth Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – To accelerate inclusive economic recovery in Western Visayas, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 6 is mobilizing local governments, entrepreneurs, and the public in a synchronized weeklong campaign to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) — long regarded as the backbone of regional development and job creation. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/msmes-seen-as-pillars-of-regional-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 7, 2028 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Small business Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Iloilo sets sights on food and nutrition security By Ime Sornito -Monday, July 7, 2025 ILOILO – The provincial government is launching an intensified campaign for food and nutrition security as it kicks off the 2025 Nutrition Month celebration this Monday, July 7, with a renewed focus on reducing malnutrition among children and promoting healthy lifestyle practices among Ilonggos. Anchored on the theme “Sa PPAN: Sama-Sama sa Nutrisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat!” and the subtheme “Food at Nutrition Security, Maging Priority! Sapat na Pagkain, Karapatan Natin!”, the provincial celebration will commence with a Zumba session and a “Healthy Salad Sale” at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol Lobby following the flag-raising ceremony. Led by the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) and the Provincial Nutrition Committee, the event will also feature the ceremonial oath-taking of the new officers of the Provincial Nutrition Volunteers of Iloilo, Inc. (2025–2026), as well as messages from key officials including IPHO head Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon, National Nutrition Council (NNC) Region 6 OIC Sheryl Sedantes, Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann Debuque, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., and keynote speaker Hector Mallo of the Office of the Provincial Agriculture. To complement the advocacy for nutritious diets, a ceremonial opening of the KADIWA Pop-Up Stores will also be held at the Capitol Grounds Walkway, offering fresh produce and local food items to promote healthy consumption. The province’s efforts appear to be paying off. According to IPHO data, Iloilo’s nutritional status has significantly improved over the last three years: * Underweight prevalence dropped from 2.98% in 2021 to 2.44% in 2023 * Wasting decreased from 1.58% to 1.11% * Stunting fell from 7.46% to 4.84% * Overweight cases declined from 3.15% to 2.26% “These consistent reductions in malnutrition indicators are a result of our province-wide, integrated strategies,” said Provincial Health Officer I, Dr. Wendel Tupas-Marcelo. Marcelo highlighted the implementation of the “ART RESPONSE” framework as central to the gains in nutrition. The acronym stands for: * A – Adequate Food Production * R – Rehabilitation of Malnutrition * T – Training and Capacity Building of Nutrition Workers * R – Reactivated Nutrition Committees * E – Education for Nutritional and Behavioral Change * S – Social Marketing for Nutrition Support * P – People Empowerment * O – Outstanding Program Implementation * N – Networking and Linkages * S – Scaling Up Nutrition * E – Emergency Response With coordinated efforts among local government units, national agencies, NGOs, private sectors, and community volunteers, Iloilo continues to move closer to achieving its goal of ensuring every Ilonggo has access to nutritious food and lives a healthy life./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, July 7 ). Iloilo sets sights on food and nutrition security. Panay News, 4. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo sets sights on food and nutrition security Description An account of the resource ILOILO – The provincial government is launching an intensified campaign for food and nutrition security as it kicks off the 2025 Nutrition Month celebration this Monday, July 7, with a renewed focus on reducing malnutrition among children and promoting healthy lifestyle practices among Ilonggos. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sornito, Ime Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-sets-sights-on-food-and-nutrition-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 7, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Food security Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Initiative seeks to address youth joblessness, strengthen Iloilo Province’s middle class By Neljoy N. Galigao -Monday, July 7, 2025 A total of 102 Ilonggo youth were recognized during the JobStart SCST Recognition Program held at the Grand Dame Hotel in Iloilo City. The training was led by the Office of the Provincial Public Employment Service Manager in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment. A total of 102 Ilonggo youth were recognized during the JobStart SCST Recognition Program held at the Grand Dame Hotel in Iloilo City. The training was led by the Office of the Provincial Public Employment Service Manager in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment. ILOILO – A total of 102 Ilonggo youth from various towns in Iloilo Province have completed a 10-day Soft/Core Skills Training (SCST) under the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) JobStart Philippines Program – a step toward addressing youth unemployment and supporting the province’s vision of a robust middle class. The SCST graduates were honored in a recognition program held on July 2 at the Grand Dame Hotel in La Paz district, Iloilo City. The training forms the first phase of JobStart Wave 2025, aimed at improving the employability of at-risk youth through life skills development, job readiness activities, and career coaching. Implemented in partnership with the Office of the Provincial Public Employment Service Manager (OPPESM), local government units, and the private sector, the program is aligned with Iloilo’s development blueprint, MoRProGRes, which seeks to create a globally competitive and resilient province driven by a strong and financially capable middle class. Provincial Administrator Raul Banias credited OPPESM, led by Dr. Cynthia Dario, for the successful implementation of the JobStart program in Iloilo. “This is about preparing young Ilonggos for the demands of the job market and giving them a better shot at long-term success,” he said. Fourth District Board Member Rolando Distura highlighted the importance of empowering youth with the skills needed to thrive across various sectors, “We are committed to providing relevant training that allows them to compete in today’s fast-evolving labor landscape,” he noted. DOLE Iloilo Field Office Director Joselito De la Banda emphasized that the JobStart program does more than just connect young people to jobs. “It instills soft skills like communication, teamwork, and discipline—qualities that are crucial for career growth and industry relevance,” he said. JobStart Philippines, institutionalized through Republic Act No. 10869, offers structured pathways for unemployed youth through partnerships with employers. It aims to bridge gaps in job readiness and ease the transition from school to work. Dr. Dario echoed the urgency of the initiative, pointing out that nearly half of the country’s unemployed are youth — many of them recent graduates. “You are fortunate to have undergone this training that has better prepared you for the workforce,” she told the graduates, commending their dedication. The program is expected to play a vital role in tackling youth unemployment in Iloilo and building a more skilled and competitive generation of workers — paving the way for greater economic resilience across the province./PN Citation Citation of the article Galigao, N. ( 2025, July 7 ). Initiative seeks to address youth joblessness, strengthen Iloilo Province’s middle class. Panay News, 2. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Initiative seeks to address youth joblessness, strengthen Iloilo Province’s middle class Description An account of the resource ILOILO – A total of 102 Ilonggo youth from various towns in Iloilo Province have completed a 10-day Soft/Core Skills Training (SCST) under the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) JobStart Philippines Program – a step toward addressing youth unemployment and supporting the province’s vision of a robust middle class. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Galigao, Neljoy Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/initiative-seeks-to-address-youth-joblessness-strengthen-iloilo-provinces-middle-class/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 7, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Employment Unemployment Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo News Archive Description An account of the resource News, old and new, about Iloilo Province Subject The topic of the resource Iloilo Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Iloilo City to launch daily night market as anchor for downtown revival, MSME growth By Ma. Theresa Ladiao -Friday, July 4, 2025 A festive crowd fills Calle Real during the inaugural Iloilo City Night Market held in 2024 as part of the Iloilo Charter Day celebration. The three-night event featured over 100 food stalls, marking the city’s first large-scale night market and setting the stage for plans to open a daily night market along JM Basa Street. MA. THERESA LADIAO/PN A festive crowd fills Calle Real during the inaugural Iloilo City Night Market held in 2024 as part of the Iloilo Charter Day celebration. The three-night event featured over 100 food stalls, marking the city’s first large-scale night market and setting the stage for plans to open a daily night market along JM Basa Street. MA. THERESA LADIAO/PN ILOILO City – A daily night market along JM Basa Street is set to become the centerpiece of Mayor Raisa Treñas’ revitalization push for the City Proper’s old business district, as the city eyes inclusive economic growth that prioritizes both big investors and small entrepreneurs. Mayor Treñas unveiled the plan during her keynote address at the Western Visayas Business Conference and Exhibit (WVBIZCONEX) 2025 on July 2, emphasizing that the move will not only breathe new life into the historic downtown area but also provide fresh livelihood opportunities for small vendors. “This is part of my vision to bring life back to the City Proper and ensure that our small players are not left behind as we welcome major investors,” said Treñas, speaking before a crowd of business leaders and development planners. The daily night market will feature designated business carts, seating, and vending spaces for micro-entrepreneurs along JM Basa Street. It will coincide with the anticipated reopening of the Central and Terminal public markets, which are currently undergoing redevelopment. Alongside this initiative, Treñas also highlighted her administration’s support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through free capacity-building programs under the Uswag Negosyo Academy. The program, launched in 2023 in partnership with the BDO Foundation, offers training in basic accounting, financial literacy, marketing, food safety, and proper housekeeping — key tools to help MSMEs become more competitive and sustainable. “Training under the academy is open to all MSMEs because we want to equip them with the skills and tools they need to thrive in our growing economy,” Treñas said. Nearly 600 market vendors have completed the program so far, each receiving P5,000 in capital assistance upon graduation to help strengthen or expand their businesses./PN Citation Citation of the article Ladiao, M. T. ( 2025, July 4 ). Iloilo City to launch daily night market as anchor for downtown revival, MSME growth. Panay News, 4. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Iloilo City to launch daily night market as anchor for downtown revival, MSME growth Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – A daily night market along JM Basa Street is set to become the centerpiece of Mayor Raisa Treñas’ revitalization push for the City Proper’s old business district, as the city eyes inclusive economic growth that prioritizes both big investors and small entrepreneurs. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Ladiao, Ma. Theresa Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-city-to-launch-daily-night-market-as-anchor-for-downtown-revival-msme-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panay News</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Panay News Incorporated Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource July 4, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Small business Markets Iloilo City