9 10 356 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 FIGHTS ‘SILENT KILLERS’; ‘Movement for Healthy Hearts’ saving thousands of lives, millions in resources By Ime Sornito -Thursday, February 6, 2025 Municipal health workers conduct blood pressure monitoring for residents of Sta. Barbara, Iloilo. Blood pressure monitoring is a measure to screen individuals who may be suffering from hypertension. Once hypertension is detected, individuals are referred to the Rural Health Unit for management and monitoring of high blood pressure. ILOILO PROVINCIAL HEALTH OFFICE PHOTO Municipal health workers conduct blood pressure monitoring for residents of Sta. Barbara, Iloilo. Blood pressure monitoring is a measure to screen individuals who may be suffering from hypertension. Once hypertension is detected, individuals are referred to the Rural Health Unit for management and monitoring of high blood pressure. ILOILO PROVINCIAL HEALTH OFFICE PHOTO ILOILO – In 2019, hypertensive cardiovascular disease was the second leading cause of death, and hypertension was the third leading cause of diseases in this province. These were “silent killers” that needed to be addressed with urgency because they could “lead to catastrophic events and place a huge burden not just on the patient, but also on their family, workplace, and community,” according to Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon, head of the IPHO. Fast forward to 2025, what started as a province-wide initiative for “healthy hearts” that has saved thousands of lives and millions in resources has become a model for other provinces in Western Visayas (WV). Originally implemented in the First District of Iloilo, the “Puso Para sa Puso: Movement for Healthy Hearts” has been expanded across the province. It is also currently being replicated in the region’s provinces of Aklan, Antique, and Capiz. Its success has also attracted interest from the Department of Health (DOH) – Central Office and all its regional offices, and even the faraway Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) for cross-learning visits. Under the leadership of Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., the Iloilo provincial government spearheaded the “Puso Para sa Puso” to tackle the high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases by focusing on disease prevention as a fundamental strategy for addressing health issues in the province through effective governance. The program is a key part of the administration’s development mantra, MoRProGRes, which stands for Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally Competitive, and Resilient Iloilo. The implementation has involved partnerships with various government agencies, development partners — especially the World Health Organization (WHO) — private organizations, and civil society organizations. How it Started According to Dr. Quiñon, the program is committed to reducing mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases by strengthening the implementation of a comprehensive service package for the prevention and control of hypertension. Efforts include promoting healthy lifestyles, implementing evidence-based treatment protocols, ensuring access to essential medicines for NCDs, and deploying monitoring systems. Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon (third from left), chief of the Iloilo Provincial Health Office, received 492 Omron blood pressure apparatuses from the World Health Organization (WHO) as part of the Healthy Heart Project. The apparatuses were distributed to local government units in the province to facilitate blood pressure monitoring for patients with hypertension. The objectives of the program are to improve the community’s access to quality health services; enhance screening, diagnosis, and management of hypertension; strengthen community participation and stakeholder engagement; and promote behavior change toward healthier lifestyles. By the end of 2023, the program aimed to achieve the following targets: * increase in the proportion of the eligible population screened for hypertension * increase in the blood pressure control rate * reduction in cardiovascular disease-related deaths In collaboration with local government units (LGUs), the program initially rolled out in February 2020, starting in the First District, covering the towns of Oton, Tigbauan, Guimbal, Miag-ao, San Joaquin, Igbaras, and Tubungan. Since then, the program has expanded to four other districts, specifically in the towns of Ajuy, Anilao, Alimodian, Badiangan, Banate, Batad, Carles, Concepcion, Dueñas, Janiuay, Lambunao, Lemery, Mina, New Lucena, San Enrique, Zarraga, Balasan, Dingle, Maasin, Barotac Viejo, Dumangas, San Dionisio, Bingawan, Leganes, San Miguel, Cabatuan, Leon, and Sta Barbara. The initiative plans to extend its reach to four more towns — Sara, San Rafael, Estancia, and Calinog — by the end of this year. Program Strategies for Enhancing Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Control According to Dr. Quiñon, the program employs four main strategies to ensure effectiveness. First, the program focuses on strengthening CVD prevention and control through a comprehensive package for quality hypertension care. This includes equipping health workers with the necessary tools such as blood pressure apparatuses and medicines. “We capacitate health workers by providing job aids such as Blood Pressure apparatuses, medicines, and offering supportive supervision and monitoring. The program integrates with other health and non-health services using an opportunistic screening approach, especially in hard-to-reach areas and for special population groups like senior citizens,” Dr. Quiñon added. Second, the strategy involves mobilizing community-based health workers and “force multipliers” to focus on monitoring target individuals. Activities include distributing medicines, conducting house-to-house blood pressure monitoring, treatment monitoring, defaulter tracking, and health education across all barangays. Third, the program empowers patients as partners in its implementation, which includes conducting promotions for healthy lifestyles. Fourth, it establishes a hypertension information system through the Healthy Heart Program (HHP)-e Registry. This system is utilized by LGUs to track the status of enrolled clients and generate timely reports. The e-Registry helps produce reports on clients with controlled and uncontrolled blood pressure, and lists defaulters for immediate action and evidence-based decision-making like medicine forecasting. Positive Results and Impact According to Governor Defensor, the “Puso Para sa Puso” has made significant strides, directly benefiting over 95,000 individuals with screenings and indirectly aiding nearly 400,000 people in the First District of Iloilo. The Iloilo Provincial Government’s “Puso Para sa Puso: Movement for Healthy Hearts” has successfully controlled the blood pressure of 418 individuals in 2021; 17,182 in 2022; and 20,483 in 2023, representing 84% of those diagnosed and enrolled that year. In terms of treatment and monitoring: in 2021, about 5,788 individuals were diagnosed and enrolled; in 2022, this number rose to 22,354; and in 2023, it reached 24,499. Since its inception, the program has shown encouraging outcomes in managing hypertension. It successfully controlled the blood pressure of 418 individuals in 2021; 17,182 in 2022; and 20,483 in 2023, representing 84% of those diagnosed and enrolled that year. Furthermore, the initiative has significantly reduced cardiovascular disease-related mortality in the province by 30%: from 499 deaths in 2021 to 402 in 2022, and down to 351 in 2023. With an impressive blood pressure control rate of 84%, the program has saved approximately P370 million in potential healthcare costs from hospitalizations. “Ultimately, the most significant impact of the program has been its contribution to reducing deaths related to cardiovascular diseases by 30%, from nearly 500 in 2021 to only 351 in 2023,” said Governor Defensor. He noted that the high blood control rate has also boosted productivity, saving more than 200,000 days that were redirected towards productive activities, thus enhancing quality of life and contributing to economic growth. “With the Healthy Hearts Program, Ilonggos living with hypertension have been given the opportunity to lead productive and quality lives,” said Defensor. The “Puso Para sa Puso” initiative has also earned Iloilo province distinct honors and recognitions, including being named as finalists for the 2024 Galing Pook Awards. Notably, Iloilo was the first local government unit (LGU) in the Philippines to adopt the World Health Organization (WHO) Healthy Hearts Program. Sustainability To ensure the sustainability of the Healthy Hearts program, Governor Defensor issued Executive Order No. 183, titled “An Order Institutionalizing the Healthy Hearts Program in the Province of Iloilo.” The Healthy Hearts Program Management Team was organized to lead the initiative province-wide. Local chief executives (LCEs) and legislative officials were engaged in participatory policy formulation, resulting in the passage of supportive policies for the program. Additionally, the Provincial Health Board issued a resolution endorsing the Healthy Hearts Program to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. The program has been integrated into the provincially mandated plans, with a budget allocation exceeding P12 million annually. This funding is crucial for maintaining the program’s momentum and ensuring its ongoing success in improving cardiovascular health across Iloilo. DOH, Other Provinces Replicate Program Following the successful implementation of the Healthy Hearts Program in the First District Iloilo, the Department of Health (DOH) moved to extend this initiative to other parts of the province and across Western Visayas. “We would like to see it implemented regionwide,” stated then DOH regional director Dr. Adriano P. Suba-an. Director Suba-an praised Iloilo for its best practices in project execution, citing the use of forecasting tools for medicine procurement, which helps LGUs plan their budgets effectively. He also commended the efforts in empowering barangay health workers by providing them with necessary tools, including educational information and communication materials for health education and teaching. According to Director Suba-an, 2019 data revealed that hypertension was the third leading cause of morbidity in Western Visayas, with 29,331 hypertensive individuals seeking consultation in health facilities for screening and medication refills. Complications from hypertension, such as hypertensive cardiovascular diseases and cerebrovascular diseases, were the second and third leading causes of mortality in the region, accounting for a total of 12,893 deaths in 2019. Furthermore, 2020 data from DOH Region 6 indicated that the number of screened and newly identified hypertensive patients in the region increased to 60,947 individuals. In the same year, 44,020 patients sought consultation at health facilities. “This is an increase of approximately 133 percent and may be attributed to increased screening and detection of hypertension even during the pandemic,” explained Suba-an. To address this, the DOH has been enhancing the capabilities of its partner health workers in LGUs to conduct screenings to detect hypertension. This is carried out through the PhilPEN risk assessment of the Philippine Package for Essential NCD Services, where all adults aged 20 years and above should be screened. Antique – First Province in WV to Adopt Following the successful implementation of the “Puso Para sa Puso: Movement for Healthy Hearts” in Iloilo, the provincial government of Antique, led by Governor Rhodora Cadiao, promptly replicated the initiative. The launch of the program, also known as “Project Kasing Kasing”, took place on June 20, 2024, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the DOH. Dr. Rui Paulo de Jesus, the Country Representative of WHO Philippines, led the launching ceremony alongside Director Suba-an and Governor Cadiao. Nine towns in Antique are beneficiaries of this program, including Pandan, Barbaza, Sibalom, Culasi, Bugasong, Hamtic, Tibiao, Patnongon, and Tobias Fornier. According to the 2022 Antique Field Health Service Information System Report, cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, rank as the fourth leading cause of death and the third leading cause of morbidity in the province. In response to these alarming statistics, the Healthy Hearts Program aims to enhance hypertension detection and control at the primary healthcare level. It also focuses on promoting healthy diets through government programs and policies and implementing a communications campaign to raise awareness. Governor Cadiao, a nurse by profession and a strong advocate for health initiatives, delivered a speech at the launch expressing her full support for the program. She emphasized the commitment of the provincial government and the Antique Provincial Health Office to bolster the health sector, including the allocation of over P55 million for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases. Contributory Factors for Cardiovascular Diseases: The Role of Cholesterol Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad cholesterol”, is the primary transporter of cholesterol to the vascular artery wall. According to Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon of the Iloilo Provincial Health Office, an increase in “bad cholesterol” is a key factor in dyslipidemia and is associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular diseases, particularly atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Numerous studies have pinpointed the roles of LDL cholesterol and its oxidized form as the main drivers of atherosclerosis progression. This can lead to reduced blood flow in an artery or an obstruction caused by a dislodged atherosclerotic plaque or thrombus, which is evident in conditions such as stroke, myocardial infarction (heart attack), and peripheral artery disease. Consequently, reducing LDL cholesterol levels is crucial for treating and preventing ASCVD in clinical practice. During the “Unblock Your Heart, Unfriend Your Bad Cholesterol” seminar-workshop held on October 21-22, 2024, organized by the Philippine Press Institute (PPI) and supported by Novartis, health experts explained to media practitioners the roles of both bad and good cholesterol in developing cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and heart attacks. Dr. Lourdes Ella Santos, a Preventive Cardiologist and Clinical Lipidologist at Cardinal Santos Medical Center, discussed the impact of bad cholesterol. High levels of cholesterol are a leading cause of ASCVD. There are two types of cholesterol: * HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) – Known as “good” cholesterol, HDL helps remove cholesterol from your body. * LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) – Known as “bad” cholesterol, LDL contributes to the buildup of cholesterol in your arteries. The primary causes for high LDL or bad cholesterol levels can be acquired, such as through various diseases, certain medications, and lifestyle patterns like diet, or genetic, such as inherited conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia. Managing Bad Cholesterol: Strategies to Reduce Health Risks According to Dr. Raul Lapitan, an Adult Clinical Cardiologist and Echocardiographer at Makati Medical Center, bad cholesterol (LDL-C) is a modifiable risk factor that can be managed through lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and medication. By making appropriate changes, individuals can lower their LDL-C levels, reducing their risk of cardiovascular diseases. Key strategies to manage and reduce bad cholesterol include: 1. Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet – Focus on eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes (such as beans and lentils), nuts, fish and seafood, and poultry. It is also important to limit sugary drinks and full-fat dairy products. 2. Manage Your Weight – Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. This helps not only in managing cholesterol but also in overall cardiovascular health. 3. Regular Exercise – Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. Always consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have not been active for a while or have chronic health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or arthritis. 4. Manage Underlying Conditions – Your doctor may prescribe medications to help achieve target levels of blood cholesterol, sugar, and/or blood pressure, or to manage any other conditions that increase your risk of cardiovascular disease. It is crucial never to stop or adjust the dosage of cholesterol-lowering medication without consulting your doctor, even if you have reached your cholesterol targets. Dr. Lapitan emphasizes the importance of lowering and maintaining cholesterol levels, especially for individuals who have experienced a cardiovascular event such as a heart attack or stroke. He notes that in some cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be sufficient, and medication might be necessary to achieve cholesterol targets. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to evaluate individual risk factors and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Call to action – ACT NOW! * A – ASCVD is a top killer in the Philippines * C – Cholesterol is a key risk but can be managed * T – Take action to lower it fast * NOW – The next heart attack or stroke could be worse — act now to stay protected. *** This article is part of the “Unblock Your Heart Health Reporting” initiative, supported by the Philippine Press Institute and Novartis, to improve health literacy on cardiovascular diseases. Know your numbers, understand your risks, and consult your doctor — so no Filipino heart is lost too soon. Take control of your heart health today. Visit unblockedmovement.ph for more information./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, February 6 ). ILOILO FIGHTS ‘SILENT KILLERS’; ‘Movement for Healthy Hearts’ saving thousands of lives, millions in resources. Panay News, 1-3. 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 FIGHTS ‘SILENT KILLERS’; ‘Movement for Healthy Hearts’ saving thousands of lives, millions in resources Description An account of the resource ILOILO – In 2019, hypertensive cardiovascular disease was the second leading cause of death, and hypertension was the third leading cause of diseases in this province. 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-fights-silent-killers-movement-for-healthy-hearts-saving-thousands-of-lives-millions-in-resources/" 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 February 6, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Cardiovascular system--Diseases Diseases and people Hypertension Medicine, Preventive Cardiovascular system--Diseases--Treatment Health risk assessment Health services 1st District of Iloilo (Iloilo Province) Ajuy Alimodian Anilao Arthur Defensor Jr. Badiangan Balasan Banate Barotac Viejo Batad Bingawan Cabatuan Carles Concepcion Dingle Dueñas Dumangas Iloilo Province Iloilo Provincial Health Office Janiuay Lambunao Leganes Lemery Leon Maasin Mina New Lucena San Dionisio San Enrique San Miguel Santa Barbara 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 The Nicos KaTEENLingban Teen Center 2.0 officially opened on January 16, offering upgraded facilities and programs to support the 1,781 students of Nicomedes R. Tubar Sr. National High School in San Dionisio, Iloilo. Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. led the inauguration, marking the completion of the youth-friendly center designed to enhance teenagers’ psychosocial and overall development. The Teen Center 2.0 is part of the Iloilo provincial government’s initiative to create a comprehensive environment for youth growth and development. Unlike its predecessor, which focused primarily on providing equipment to school-based centers, this upgraded facility offers a variety of recreational, social, and developmental programs aimed at nurturing students’ physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being. Defensor emphasized the importance of supporting students beyond academics, describing the center as an extension of their homes. “Your Iloilo provincial government is not only interested in your education but also in the development of your social life as part of youth development,” Defensor said. The Nicos KaTEENLingban Teen Center 2.0 is the first completed project under the Teen Center 2.0 initiative, which seeks to enhance school-based youth programs across Iloilo. Eleven schools were selected as pilot recipients of the project, with five centers, including the one in San Dionisio, now completed. The remaining six are still under construction. Atty. Ruel Von Superio, head of the Iloilo Provincial Population Office (PPO), explained that the initiative aligns with Governor Defensor’s development mantra, MoRProGRes Iloilo, or the Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally Competitive, and Resilient Province of Iloilo. “This youth development initiative aims to create an enabling environment for young people to develop their social, ethical, physical, emotional, and cognitive competencies,” Superio said. The upgraded facility is expected to equip students with tools and support to thrive in various areas of life, fostering their growth into well-rounded and globally competitive individuals. Citation Citation of the article Oladive, M.A. (2025 January 21) Upgraded Teen Center to Serve 1,781 Students, Daily Guardian. 7 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 Upgraded teen center to serve 1,781 students Subject The topic of the resource Community centers Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oladive, Mariela Angella Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://dailyguardian.com.ph/upgraded-teen-center-to-serve-1781-students/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Daily Guardian</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Daily Guardian Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 21, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Description An account of the resource The Nicos KaTEENLingban Teen Center 2.0 officially opened on January 16, offering upgraded facilities and programs to support the 1,781 students of Nicomedes R. Tubar Sr. National High School in San Dionisio, Iloilo. Iloilo Provincial Population Office (PPO) San Dionisio 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 The Provincial Health Office (PHO) of Iloilo reported 21 cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) during the second morbidity week of 2025, covering January 1 to 11. This marks a significant 64% decrease from the 59 cases recorded during the same period in 2024. Thirteen municipalities across Iloilo confirmed cases of the viral infection. Alimodian, Cabatuan, and San Joaquin recorded the highest number of cases, with three each. Tigbauan and Passi City reported two cases each, while one case was recorded in Barotac Viejo, Calinog, Leon, Santa Barbara, Banate, Barotac Nuevo, San Enrique, and Tubungan. HFMD is a highly contagious viral illness that primarily affects young children. Symptoms include low-grade fever, mouth sores, and rashes on the hands, feet, and buttocks. Dr. Rodney Labis, head of the PHO Health Service Delivery Division, stated in a local radio interview that most of those affected are children aged five years and younger. The disease spreads through coughing, sneezing, and contact with contaminated surfaces, such as doorknobs, chairs, tables, cellphones, and pens. Residents are urged to practice regular handwashing, disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and seek care at the nearest rural health unit (RHU) or health center if symptoms develop Citation Citation of the article Oladive, M.A. (21 January 2024) HFMD Cases in Iloilo Drop by 64%, Daily Guardian, 2-11 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 HFMD Cases in Iloilo Drop by 64% Subject The topic of the resource Public health surveillance Communicable diseases in children Epidemiology Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oladive, Mariela Angella Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://dailyguardian.com.ph/hfmd-cases-in-iloilo-drop-by-64/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Daily Guardian</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Daily Guardian Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 21, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Alimodian Banate Barotac Nuevo Cabatuan Calinog Iloilo Leon Passi City Provincial Health Office (PHO) Rural Health Units San Enrique San Joaquin Santa Barbara Tigbauan Tubungan 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 prov’l gov’t mulls separating Kasadyahan from Dinagyang fest By Ime Sornito -Monday, January 20, 2025 MARIN MARIN ILOILO – To accommodate more tribes and further highlight the culture and tourism of Iloilo province, the provincial government is studying the possibility of making the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan a standalone event, independent from the Dinagyang Festival. Currently, the Kasadyahan is held a day before the Dinagyang Ati tribes competition, one of the highlights of the festival organized by the Iloilo City Government and the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI). Gilbert G. Marin, head of the Provincial Culture, Arts, History and Tourism Office (PCAHTO), revealed that discussions regarding the separation often arise during committee meetings for Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan. Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. is reportedly open to the idea of transforming Kasadyahan into an independent festival of festivals for Iloilo province, akin to Negros Occidental’s Panaad Festival. “The governor envisions holding this during the Semana sang Iloilo celebration in April, marking the establishment of Iloilo as a province. He aims for a larger event that can cater to more festivals,” Marin said. Marin emphasized that guidance from IFFI would be critical in realizing this plan, noting that the foundation has been instrumental since the provincial government took over the organization of Kasadyahan in 2024. For 2025, nine tribes are set to participate in the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan, representing their respective municipalities: * Banaag Festival of Anilao * Kaing Festival of Leon * Tawili Festival of San Rafael * Hirinugyaw Suguidanonay Festival of Calinog * Tinuom Festival of Cabatuan * Cry of Jelicuon Festival of New Lucena * Tangyan Festival of Igbaras * Haw-as Festival of Dumangas * Tultugan Festival of Maasin Governor Defensor described Kasadyahan as a “cultural stage” for municipalities, showcasing their unique offerings. “Our municipalities are fun; they are foodie, and they are friendly. Kasadyahan is a mix of culture, arts, history, and tradition,” he said. The provincial government aims to use Kasadyahan as a platform to promote tourism and investment in Iloilo City and province. To support this, financial subsidies amounting to P2 million will be given to participating second to fifth-class municipalities, including Cabatuan, Leon, Maasin, Igbaras, Anilao, New Lucena, and San Rafael. First-class municipalities, Calinog and Dumangas, will each receive P1.5 million. This marks an increase from the P1 million subsidy provided in 2024./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, January 20 ). https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-provl-govt-mulls-separating-kasadyahan-from-dinagyang-fest/. 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 prov’l gov’t mulls separating Kasadyahan from Dinagyang fest Description An account of the resource ILOILO – To accommodate more tribes and further highlight the culture and tourism of Iloilo province, the provincial government is studying the possibility of making the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan a standalone event, independent from the Dinagyang Festival. 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-provl-govt-mulls-separating-kasadyahan-from-dinagyang-fest/" 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 January 20, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Festivals Dinagyang Festival Iloilo City Government Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. Iloilo Province Iloilo Provincial Culture Arts History And Tourism Office (PCAHTO) Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan 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 Animal welfare advocates seek end to San Joaquin’s Pasungay Festival By Ime Sornito -Monday, January 20, 2025 CLASH OF HORNS. This is a scene from San Joaquin, Iloilo’s controversial Pasungay Festival. The annual tradition, featuring carabaos and cows in staged battles, sparked a heated debate between cultural preservation advocates and animal welfare groups, with calls to end the practice citing alleged animal cruelty and gambling concerns. Screenshot from live video of Atty. Joe Abad Sicabalo Lazaro, Jr. Facebook Account CLASH OF HORNS. This is a scene from San Joaquin, Iloilo’s controversial Pasungay Festival. The annual tradition, featuring carabaos and cows in staged battles, sparked a heated debate between cultural preservation advocates and animal welfare groups, with calls to end the practice citing alleged animal cruelty and gambling concerns. Screenshot from live video of Atty. Joe Abad Sicabalo Lazaro, Jr. Facebook Account ILOILO – Animal welfare groups, including the Animal Kingdom Foundation and Team Aspin of Iloilo (TAIL), have called on the local government unit (LGU) of the municipality of San Joaquin to cease the annual Pasungay Festival, citing concerns over animal cruelty. The festival, held on Saturday, January 18, featured over 20 pairs of carabaos and cows showcasing their battle skills at the San Joaquin Sports Stadium as part of the town’s religious fiesta celebration. The event sparked outrage on social media, with many animal lovers and concerned citizens condemning it as a form of animal cruelty. The Pasungay Festival is a long-standing cultural event rooted in the town’s agricultural heritage. Symbolizing their role in rural farming life, horned animals engage in displays of strength and battle skills. The term pasungay is derived from the Hiligaynon word sungay, meaning “horns”. While proponents view it as a celebration of tradition and local identity, the festival has become controversial. Aside from animal cruelty, there are also allegations of gambling during the event. Critics argued that the spectacle contradicts efforts to preserve cultural traditions in an ethical and compassionate manner. The Animal Kingdom Foundation released a statement denouncing the festival: “The lives of our proud carabaos may not be at risk, but is the unnecessary violence aligned with the ethical and moral values that we strive to uphold in our community? Furthermore, allegations of gambling have been cropping up.” The group stressed the need for San Joaquin’s LGU to comply with the Animal Welfare Act of 1998 and adopt more humane ways to honor local traditions. “The preservation of tradition that honors history and culture while fostering an innovative and compassionate community is far better than exploiting animals and espousing violence,” the foundation stressed. This is not the first time animal welfare advocates have raised concerns about the Pasungay Festival. In 2019, their efforts, alongside support from other animal welfare groups, led the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) to halt the festival for violating the Animal Welfare Act. However, the event resumed in 2023 after the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) declared the festival an intangible cultural heritage of the Philippines. Despite this recognition, Team Aspin of Iloilo (TAIL) criticized the festival, emphasizing the important role carabaos play in agriculture and food production. They reminded animal lovers to hold politicians accountable in the upcoming May 2025 midterm elections. “Do not vote for politicians who allow this animal cruelty. Stop the Pasungay Festival or traditional carabao fights. Our carabaos don’t deserve this,” the group stressed./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, January 21 ). Animal welfare advocates seek end to San Joaquin’s Pasungay Festival. Panay News, 1-2. 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 Animal welfare advocates seek end to San Joaquin’s Pasungay Festival Description An account of the resource ILOILO – Animal welfare groups, including the Animal Kingdom Foundation and Team Aspin of Iloilo (TAIL), have called on the local government unit (LGU) of the municipality of San Joaquin to cease the annual Pasungay Festival, citing concerns over animal cruelty. 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/animal-welfare-advocates-seek-end-to-san-joaquins-pasungay-festival/" 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 January 21, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Animal welfare Festivals Animal Kingdom Foundation Animal Welfare Act of 1998 Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) Iloilo Province National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Pasungay Festival San Joaquin Team Aspin of Iloilo Team Aspin of Iloilo (TAIL) 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’s first Family and Youth Development Center breaks ground in Igbaras By Ime Sornito -Friday, January 17, 2025 The proposed Family and Youth Development Center in Igbaras, Iloilo is envisioned as a hub for Pre-Marriage Orientation and Counselling sessions, youth training programs, and other initiatives under the province's population and development agenda. Photo from Balita Halin Sa Kapitolyo The proposed Family and Youth Development Center in Igbaras, Iloilo is envisioned as a hub for Pre-Marriage Orientation and Counselling sessions, youth training programs, and other initiatives under the province's population and development agenda. Photo from Balita Halin Sa Kapitolyo ILOILO – This province officially launched its first-ever Family and Youth Development Center (FYDC) on January 15, a milestone in the provincial government’s efforts to empower families and young people in the First District. ComScore Observer Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. led the ceremonial unveiling of the structural design for the proposed two-storey building and participated in the symbolic lowering and sealing of a time capsule to signify the project’s commencement. The FYDC is envisioned as a hub for Pre-Marriage Orientation and Counselling (PMOC) sessions, youth training programs, and other initiatives under the province’s population and development agenda. The facility will also house the offices of the Population Program Officers (PPOs), Barangay Service Point Officers (BSPOs), the Local Youth Development Office (LYDO), the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), and the Local Youth Development Council Office (LYDCO). To fund the project, the Iloilo provincial government allocated P5 million to the local government unit of Igbaras. Defensor emphasized the significance of supporting families and youth, which he described as the foundation of his administration’s flagship program, “MoRProGRes Iloilo” (Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally-Competitive, and Resilient Province of Iloilo). “There is nothing more important than our families and our youth. If we want to build a nation, we have to start with our family and our youth,” said Defensor. The facility is part of the provincial government’s efforts, through the Provincial Population Office (PPO), to pioneer initiatives that strengthen and empower the family and youth sectors. Atty. Ruel Von Superio, chief of the PPO, described the FYDC as an innovative approach to implementing the Responsible Parenthood and Adolescent Health and Youth Development Programs in Iloilo. “We aim to strengthen our network and intensify collaborative efforts to address gaps and promote the development, welfare, and empowerment of families and youth, not just in Igbaras but across the province,” he said. The project identifies Igbaras, New Lucena, Santa Barbara, Calinog, Lambunao, Passi City, San Dionisio, and Sara as pilot areas for FYDC implementation. Joining Governor Defensor at the event were Atty. Superio, Mayor Vicente Escorpion Jr., Vice Mayor Sherwin Paul Guidato, and Anilao Mayor Lee Ann Debuque, who represented the League of Municipalities of the Philippines – Iloilo./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, January 17 ). Iloilo’s first Family and Youth Development Center breaks ground in Igbaras. 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’s first Family and Youth Development Center breaks ground in Igbaras Description An account of the resource ILOILO – This province officially launched its first-ever Family and Youth Development Center (FYDC) on January 15, a milestone in the provincial government’s efforts to empower families and young people in the First District. 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/iloilos-first-family-and-youth-development-center-breaks-ground-in-igbaras/" 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 January 17, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Community centers Counselling Arthur R. Defensor Jr. Igbaras 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 Program targets hunger among food-poor families in Batad By Ime Sornito -Thursday, January 16, 2025 Poor beneficiaries in Batad, Iloilo receive food assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Walang Gutom Program. DSWD Western Visayas Facebook Page Poor beneficiaries in Batad, Iloilo receive food assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Walang Gutom Program. DSWD Western Visayas Facebook Page ILOILO – Batad became the first municipality in this province to benefit from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Walang Gutom Program (WGP). The ceremonial tapping of the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards and the program’s official launch in Iloilo Province were held on Tuesday, January 14. A total of 290 household beneficiaries received food assistance loaded onto their EBT cards, each amounting to P3,000, with an aggregate allocation of P870,000. These households are part of 14,193 poor families or low-income households targeted across Iloilo and Antique provinces, with 10,406 beneficiaries in Iloilo and 3,787 in Antique. DSWD assistant regional director for operations Katherine Joy Lamprea emphasized the program’s importance in addressing hunger and food security while highlighting the collaborative efforts of local government units (LGUs), stakeholders, and the community. “The Walang Gutom Program is a symbol of hope and progress. It ensures that no child goes to bed hungry and no family is left behind,” Lamprea said. She also underscored the government’s dedication to inclusivity and sustainability, as the program is set to benefit households across 42 towns in Iloilo, including Iloilo and Passi cities. Mayor Elvira Alarcon expressed her gratitude to the national government and DSWD for including Batad in this initiative. “This is a big step to ensure that no resident of Batad will go hungry. This hunger alleviation program promises to address food insecurity and ensure that vulnerable families have access to sufficient and nutritious food,” she said. Alarcon urged beneficiaries to use the assistance wisely to enhance their family’s nutrition and well-being. She also lauded the program’s support for local farmers by sourcing products directly from them. “For example, the vegetables given to you [during this redemption activity] are sourced here in Batad from our local farmers, allowing us to help them as well,” Mayor Alarcon said. DSWD has partnered with two local retailers in Batad — B&SK Sar-Sari Store and AKB Variety Store — as well as the BOMFA Variety Store, a Sustainable Livelihood Program Association, to ensure the program’s success. The food redemption activity was facilitated by the WGP Regional Program Management Office, led by Innovations Division Chief Asuncion M. Santiago./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, January 16 ). Program targets hunger among food-poor families in Batad. Panay News, 1-2. 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 Program targets hunger among food-poor families in Batad Description An account of the resource ILOILO – Batad became the first municipality in this province to benefit from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Walang Gutom Program (WGP). 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/program-targets-hunger-among-food-poor-families-in-batad/" 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 January 16, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Poor Food supply insurance Food Hunger Food relief Public welfare Batad Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 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 ‘SEX EDUCATION’: Controversial program sparks protest; Education dep’t defends curriculum By Ime Sornito -Thursday, January 16, 2025 ILOILO – The Department of Education (DepEd) has assured the public that the integration of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in schools adheres to age-appropriate and concept-appropriate guidelines. This assurance was made by Dr. Nestor Paul Pingil, chief of the Curriculum Implementation Division (CID) of the Schools Division Office (SDO) – Iloilo Province, amid concerns raised by a viral explainer video claiming that the CSE “hypersexualizes children at a very early age.” Dr. Pingil emphasized that the DepEd focuses on integrating concepts aligned with learners’ developmental stages and does not delve into technical aspects of sex or promote the use of contraceptives. Instead, CSE centers on teaching values such as self-respect, self-care, and responsible social behavior, he clarified. Opposition The CSE program has faced backlash from Project Dalisay, a group under the National Coalition for the Family and the Constitution. They launched an online petition against CSE and a related proposed measure, Senate Bill 1979, the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Act. “We express strong opposition…as these initiatives conflict with the core values and beliefs upheld by many Filipino families, particularly those of the Christian and Islamic faith,” read part of the petition. According to Project Dalisay, the CSE program “includes topics that challenge traditional family values, such as sexual orientation, gender identity, and rights related to sexual activity and reproductive health. The program introduces concepts like ‘gender fluidity’ and ‘sexual diversity’, suggesting that people can choose their sexual identity beyond the binary of male and female.” The petition added: “It also emphasizes sexual rights, which could be interpreted as encouraging early sexual activity, and includes discussions on contraception, abortion, and non-traditional relationships. These concepts contradict traditional Christian and Islamic morality regarding marriage, procreation, and family life.” As for Senate Bill 1979, the group said it mandates the integration of CSE into the national curriculum, which would be enforced across schools nationwide, without adequate consultation or consent from parents and guardians. This bill, it added, also promotes the availability of contraception and reproductive health services to adolescents, a measure that it believes could encourage early sexual activity and undermine the values of abstinence and marital fidelity, which are vital tenets of Christian and Islamic teachings. It’s About Helping Students But according to Pingil, “The CSE framework is about helping students become responsible individuals, understanding changes in their physical and emotional development, and promoting healthy relationships.” He also said CSE learning materials are subjected to rigorous quality assurance by the DepEd Central Office before being disseminated to regional offices and schools. This stance of the SDO-Iloilo aligns with the official statement of DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, who reiterated the agency’s commitment to ensuring only appropriate content is included in the curriculum. “Rest assured we will not accept inappropriate concepts being taught in our schools. We will abide by what the law states,” Angara said. CSE Implementation Timeline CSE’s integration to school curricula began in 2018 under DepEd Order No. 31, issued by then Education Secretary Leonor Briones. However, the COVID-19 pandemic delayed its full implementation. The program was intensified in 2022 with the resumption of face-to-face classes. CSE concepts are integrated into various subjects, including Science, MAPEH (Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health), Araling Panlipunan, and Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao (ESP), focusing on topics such as physical changes, healthy relationships, and responsible use of social media. Stop It? Project Dalisay has called for the following actions from DepEd and the lawmakers: * stop the implementation of CSE program and its inclusion of content that goes against the values of the Filipino family, particularly with respect to the teaching of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities * ensure that parents and guardians have the primary right to guide their children’s education regarding sexuality, and that any such curriculum is transparent and subject to parental consent * reject Senate Bill 1979 and any provisions within it that enforce the mandatory implementation of CSE or promote policies that could encourage early sexual activity, reproductive health services for minors, and the normalization of non-traditional gender and sexual identities * ensure that any sexuality education curriculum is aligned with the values of Filipino families and respects the moral, spiritual, and educational integrity of children “We firmly believe that the protection of parental rights, family values, and the moral upbringing of our children is essential to the future of our nation. We are not opposed to education on health and well-being, but we urge that such education be conducted in a manner that respects the values of Filipino families and protects the integrity of the Christian and Islamic faiths,” according to Project Dalisay. Support For its part, the Commission on Population and Development (CPD or PopCom) Region 6 has reiterated its support for CSE as part of the Philippine Population and Development Plan of Action to address adolescent pregnancy. It, however, declined to issue a statement directly addressing the campaign led by the Christian community against CSE. The directive to withhold statements came from its Central Office. Data from CPD Region 6 show that adolescent live births in Western Visayas decreased by 10% over three years, from 9,766 in 2019 to 8,787 in 2022. The breakdown of adolescent live births in 2022 by province and highly urbanized city is as follows: * Aklan – 694 * Antique – 555 * Capiz – 973 * Guimaras – 232 * Iloilo Province – 2,390 * Negros Occidental – 3,305 * Bacolod City – 256 * Iloilo City – 382 The decline in numbers reflects efforts to raise awareness about adolescent health and well-being, which the CPD attributes to integrated programs like CSE./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, January 16 ). ‘SEX EDUCATION’: Controversial program sparks protest; Education dep’t defends curriculum. Panay News, 1-2. 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 ‘SEX EDUCATION’: Controversial program sparks protest; Education dep’t defends curriculum Description An account of the resource ILOILO – The Department of Education (DepEd) has assured the public that the integration of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in schools adheres to age-appropriate and concept-appropriate guidelines. 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/sex-education-controversial-program-sparks-protest-education-dept-defends-curriculum/" 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 January 16, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Sex instruction Education Contraceptives Sex Family life education Sex counseling Sex educators Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) DepEd Iloilo Province National Coalition for the Family and the Constitution Project Dalisay 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 NewsIloiloTop Stories Maasin LGU grants P100,000 to Miss Iloilo in grand homecoming celebration By Ime Sornito -Tuesday, January 14, 2025 Fans greet newly-crowned Miss Iloilo 2025 Karen Nicole Piccio in Maasin, Iloilo during a homecoming parade in her honor in Maasin, Iloilo on January 13, 2025. Photo from Mayor Francis Amboy Facebook Page Fans greet newly-crowned Miss Iloilo 2025 Karen Nicole Piccio in Maasin, Iloilo during a homecoming parade in her honor in Maasin, Iloilo on January 13, 2025. Photo from Mayor Francis Amboy Facebook Page ILOILO – The local government unit (LGU) of Maasin extended a token of gratitude worth P100,000 to Karen Nicole Piccio, newly crowned Miss Iloilo 2025, during a grand homecoming ceremony on Monday morning, January 13. The check was presented to Piccio as part of a program prepared by the LGU to celebrate her victory. Maasinhons gave her a warm welcome, lining the streets, stepping out of their homes, schools, and offices to catch a glimpse of their beauty queen. “We awarded Miss Piccio a token of gratitude worth P100,000 as a gesture of appreciation for her dedication and effort in bringing home the crown,” said Mayor Francis Amboy in a statement on his Facebook page. The mayor reiterated that the entire town of Maasin is immensely proud of Piccio. Piccio was crowned Miss Iloilo 2025 on January 11 at the West Visayas State University Cultural Center in Iloilo City. She succeeded Miss Iloilo 2024 Alexie Mae Brooks, who currently holds the title of Miss Philippines-Eco International. Throughout the competition, Piccio captivated the judges and audience with her grace and purpose. She also garnered several special awards, including Miss SM City Iloilo, Best in Introduction Video, Best in Advocacy and Tourism Video, Best Runway Model, Best in Closed-Door Interview, and Best in Gastronomy Costume (shared with Elaine Segura of Guimbal and Teshia Kaye Palomo). Joining Piccio as Miss Iloilo 2025 Heartfelt Queens were Segura and Marissa Puyong of Passi City. Segura won Best in Evening Gown, while Puyong earned the Best in Swimsuit award, demonstrating elegance and confidence in these key categories. Piccio, a seasoned contender, previously joined the 2019 Miss Philippines-Earth competition, where she earned the Miss Philippines Eco-Tourism title. In 2023, she participated in the revived Miss Manila: Woman of Wonder contest, finishing as first runner-up. The Miss Iloilo pageant, organized by Beverly Rosales and Sarah Peña of the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI), not only celebrated the beauty and talent of Ilongga women but also highlighted their commitment to community advocacy and cultural promotion. The event served as a prelude to the grand festivities of this year’s Dinagyang Festival./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, January 14 ). Maasin LGU grants P100,000 to Miss Iloilo in grand homecoming celebration. 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 Maasin LGU grants P100,000 to Miss Iloilo in grand homecoming celebration Description An account of the resource ILOILO – The local government unit (LGU) of Maasin extended a token of gratitude worth P100,000 to Karen Nicole Piccio, newly crowned Miss Iloilo 2025, during a grand homecoming ceremony on Monday morning, January 13. 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/maasin-lgu-grants-p100000-to-miss-iloilo-in-grand-homecoming-celebration/" 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 January 14, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Pageants Maasin Miss Iloilo 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 Home News Iloilo Miss Maasin crowned Miss Iloilo 2025 NewsIloilo Miss Maasin crowned Miss Iloilo 2025 By Panay News -Monday, January 13, 2025 (From left) Heartfelt Queen Elaine Segura, Miss Iloilo 2025 Karen Nicole Piccio and Heartfelt Queen Marissa Puyong. JERRY TREÑAS/FB PAGE (From left) Heartfelt Queen Elaine Segura, Miss Iloilo 2025 Karen Nicole Piccio and Heartfelt Queen Marissa Puyong. JERRY TREÑAS/FB PAGE BY MA. THERESA LADIAO ILOILO City – In a dazzling showcase of beauty, talent and advocacy, Karen Nicole Piccio of Maasin, Iloilo was crowned Miss Iloilo 2025 on January 11, 2025 at West Visayas State University Cultural Center in La Paz district. Miss Iloilo 2024 Alexie Mae Brooks, the reigning Miss Philippines-Eco International, crowned her successor. Piccio captured the hearts of the judges and audiences alike, demonstrating grace and purpose throughout the competition. The national pageant veteran also bagged several special awards, including Miss SM City Iloilo, Best in Introduction Video, Best in Advocacy and Tourism Video, Best Runway Model, Best in Closed-Door Interview, and Best in Gastronomy Costume (tied with Elaine Segura of Guimbal and Teshia Kaye Palomo). Joining Piccio were Miss Iloilo 2025 Heartfelt Queens Segura and Marissa Puyong of Passi City. Segura won the Best in Evening Gown while Puyong took home the Best in Swimsuit award, showcasing their elegance and poise in these key categories. Piccio, a seasoned candidate, had joined the 2019 Miss Philippines-Earth. She received the Miss Philippines Eco-Tourism title in the national pageant. She later joined the revived Miss Manila: Woman of Wonder contest in 2023, finishing as first runner-up. The Miss Iloilo pageant, mounted by Beverly Rosales and Sarah Peña of the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc. (IFFI), not only showcased the beauty and talent of Ilongga women but also highlighted their commitment to community advocacy and cultural promotion. The event served as a fitting prelude to the grand festivities of this year’s Dinagyang Festival, further amplifying the pride and spirit of the Ilonggos./PN Citation Citation of the article Ladiao, M. T. ( 2025, January 13 ). Miss Maasin crowned Miss Iloilo 2025. Panay News, 1-2. 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 Miss Maasin crowned Miss Iloilo 2025 Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – In a dazzling showcase of beauty, talent and advocacy, Karen Nicole Piccio of Maasin, Iloilo was crowned Miss Iloilo 2025 on January 11, 2025 at West Visayas State University Cultural Center in La Paz district. 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/miss-maasin-crowned-miss-iloilo-2025/" 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 January 13, 22025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Pageants Dinagyang Festival Maasin Miss Iloilo