13 10 713 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 BREAKING THE CYCLE: An Ati Woman’s Journey from Discrimination to Empowerment By Panay News -Monday, April 7, 2025 “Do not be afraid and do not be ashamed. Embrace your identity with pride and recognize the inherent strength that comes from your heritage,” says Indhay Cha. “Do not be afraid and do not be ashamed. Embrace your identity with pride and recognize the inherent strength that comes from your heritage,” says Indhay Cha. BY ROGER SIBAG JR. WHEN THE tribulations feel relentless, for some, it is easier to give up than to confront their circumstances and rise above them. It is easier to question their worth and blame themselves than to question the society that perpetuates the hardship — so the cycle never ends. Charlen Enario Panaguiton is the Community Affairs Officer of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples. “The obstacles seemed overwhelming at times, and it was hard to envision a way forward amidst such adversity,” shared Charlen Enario Panaguiton, an Ati — one of the indigenous peoples in Panay Island — as she recalled the struggles that brought her into a seemingly endless cycle of despair, believing there was no way out. IN THE LOOP Growing up as an Ati, Indhay Cha, now 34, already felt different from the rest of her peers. Her dark complexion, one of the distinct physical qualities of an Ati, subjected her to “painful” discrimination when she was still a student, becoming one of the hindrances in her academic pursuit. Furthermore, poverty is one of the barriers she had to break. The earnings of her parents from farming and laundry work in Escalantera, San Joaquin, Iloilo were not enough, so there were times when she had to join her parents in charcoal burning to make ends meet. In third grade, she began working as a household helper enduring the loneliness of being away from her family for two years. “I was determined to make the most of every opportunity that came my way,” said Indhay Cha, who despite the things that affected her education graduated cum laude at the West Visayas State University with a Bachelor of Elementary Education – General Education degree in 2007. “First time ko tu, waay pa takon ka-sulod sa KFC kung waay ako gin-dara ni Ma’am Anne (It was my first time. I would have never gone to KFC if it weren’t for Ma’am Anne),” she mentioned narrating how her then cooperating teacher Dr. Antoniette Cortez let her experience one of her fondest memories during college. Dr. Cortez shared, “I used to bring them in restaurants. One day, while we were lining up at KFC to eat, she started crying, only to find out that she was crying because it was her first time eating at KFC.” EBB AND FLOW Thinking that she broke free from those demoralizing encounters, her one year of teaching experience brought her back to her childhood years when she was treated inferior because of her ethnicity. “One time, one of my students naghambal, ‘Maam itom itom sa imu, wala ka naga-paligo?’ Nagkadlaw lang ako (Once, a student sarcastically asked me, ‘Ma’am, why are you so dark? Do you not take baths?’ I just laughed it off),” she recounted. On top of this, she also felt that she was politicized in the application process for a position in an education government office which disappointed her. The combined weight of workplace discrimination and systemic challenges led her to a decision to quit teaching in 2015. “[My experiences] made me question my place and value in the profession. However, over time, I learned to channel these experiences into a drive for personal growth and resilience,” she revealed. THE RENEWAL The discrimination she faced at school and her workplace took a toll on her, but it also ignited her passion for ensuring that her fellow Indigenous people (IP) bear the same burdens she did because of simply who they are. Currently working as the Officer in Charge/ Community Affairs Officer I of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), she vowed to serve her fellow IPs by advocating for their rights, supporting their needs, and amplifying their voices. Despite reaching greater heights, she always gives back to her Ati community through organizing outreach programs. During one of their engagements, their team brought a photobooth so each family could have their own family picture — something she did not have growing up. Being in a much happier place after a “refreshing” change — having a new profession close to her heart and escaping the grip of poverty — she continued to use the lessons she learned to grow and empower others, especially her fellow IPs. “Do not be afraid and do not be ashamed. Embrace your identity with pride and recognize the inherent strength that comes from your heritage,” stated Indhay Cha as her message to her fellow IPs. She grew up thinking that the world was against her but she learned when to fight back and when to walk away. Though she cannot change the past, growing up as an IP in a less privileged family, Indhay Cha is determined to build a kinder, more just future for her two daughters as a single mother and for her fellow IPs and let them experience the opportunities she never had as a young girl. The cycle ends with her. (Silak Media) Citation Citation of the article Sibag, R. Jr. ( 2025, April 7 ). BREAKING THE CYCLE: An Ati Woman’s Journey from Discrimination to Empowerment. Panay News, B24. 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 BREAKING THE CYCLE: An Ati Woman’s Journey from Discrimination to Empowerment Description An account of the resource WHEN THE tribulations feel relentless, for some, it is easier to give up than to confront their circumstances and rise above them. It is easier to question their worth and blame themselves than to question the society that perpetuates the hardship — so the cycle never ends. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Sibag, Roger Jr. Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/breaking-the-cycle-an-ati-womans-journey-from-discrimination-to-empowerment/" 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 April 7, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Discrimination in education Human rights Indigenous People Women's rights Women teachers Aeta (Philippine people) DepEd San Joaquin 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 ‘LIMPYO ILOILO’: Weekly anti-dengue drive ordered in Iloilo Province By Ime Sornito -Monday, March 31, 2025 ILOILO – To strengthen and institutionalize the Department of Health (DOH)’s 4S strategy in dengue prevention — particularly the “search and destroy” component — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has directed all 43 local government units (LGUs) in the province to implement a weekly clean-up drive called “Limpyo Iloilo, Kada Lunes nga Lihok Kontra Lamok” (Clean Iloilo, Every Monday Movement Against Mosquitoes). The directive was issued through Executive Order No. 29, Series of 2025, mandating the province-wide campaign every Monday at 4 p.m. as part of Iloilo’s ongoing dengue outbreak response. The initiative aims to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and reduce dengue transmission, especially during the rainy season. ComScore Observer From January 1 to March 22, the province recorded 1,128 dengue cases with seven deaths, marking a 78 percent increase compared to the same period last year, which had 635 cases and two deaths. Dengue is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. These mosquitoes are daytime biters and often breed in clean, stagnant water found in containers such as buckets, drums, flower pots, tires, and clogged gutters. Symptoms usually appear four to 10 days after the mosquito bite and include sudden high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, skin rashes, nausea and vomiting, and mild bleeding (nose or gums, or easy bruising). Severe dengue can cause internal bleeding, organ failure, and can be fatal, particularly if not managed early. Under the executive order, the following key measures will be observed: * All LGUs are to mobilize their communities every Monday at 4 p.m. Sirens from government vehicles or church bells may be used to signal the start of activities. * All sectors, including government offices, schools, workplaces, business establishments, and households, are mandated to participate. * The clean-up operations will focus on removing mosquito breeding sites such as water-holding containers, including buckets, tires, flower pots, bottles, roofing gutters, drums, and tubs. * The City/Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Offices (C/MENRO) will lead the implementation through their Solid Waste Management Program. * The City/Municipal Health Offices (C/MHO), through their Health Education and Promotions Officers (HEPOs), will conduct information dissemination, while their Dengue Program Coordinators will coordinate efforts with local offices, schools, and barangays. * The Provincial School Board will ensure participation of schools through the City/Municipal Anti-Dengue Task Forces. The campaign also includes larval surveillance and entomological surveys, with mosquito larvae collected and analyzed to inform targeted interventions, including Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) or fogging. A follow-up survey will be conducted two weeks after any intervention. If mosquito populations remain high, additional control measures will be implemented. To ensure sustained community engagement, the program will be integrated into various government initiatives such as: * Women’s Month * Solid Waste Management Program * Semana sang Iloilo * Brigada Eskwela * Barangay Clean and Green Program * Cash-for-Work Programs Compliance will be monitored by the City/Municipal Anti-Dengue Task Forces, while Barangay Anti-Dengue Task Forces will oversee household-level participation and encourage full community involvement. Municipalities with the highest dengue cases (over 20) so far this year are San Joaquin (85), Oton (70 with one death), Leon ( 66), Cabatuan ( 51), Dumangas –(50), San Dionisio ( 47), Lambunao (40), Janiuay (37), Banate (36), Ajuy (35), Barotac Viejo (31), Pavia (31), Sara (30), Concepcion (30), Estancia (28), Pototan (28 with two deaths), Maasin (27), Tigbauan (27, 1 death), Calinog (26), Guimbal (26), Carles (23 with two deaths), Passi City (21), Barotac Nuevo (21), Miag-ao (21), Batad (21), and Santa Barbara (21). Other areas with cases are San Miguel (19), Dingle (18), Badiangan (16), Balasan (14 with one death), San Rafael (13), Leganes (13), Dueñas (13), Tubungan (12), Anilao (11), Alimodian (11), Lemery (11), Mina (10), Zarraga (9), San Enrique (9), Igbaras (8), New Lucena (6), and Bingawan (4)./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, March 31 ). ‘LIMPYO ILOILO’: Weekly anti-dengue drive ordered in Iloilo Province. 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 ‘LIMPYO ILOILO’: Weekly anti-dengue drive ordered in Iloilo Province Description An account of the resource ILOILO – To strengthen and institutionalize the Department of Health (DOH)’s 4S strategy in dengue prevention — particularly the “search and destroy” component — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has directed all 43 local government units (LGUs) in the province to implement a weekly clean-up drive called “Limpyo Iloilo, Kada Lunes nga Lihok Kontra Lamok” (Clean Iloilo, Every Monday Movement Against Mosquitoes). 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/limpyo-iloilo-weekly-anti-dengue-drive-ordered-in-iloilo-province/" 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 March 31, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Dengue Sanitation Mosquito Biological control Department of Health 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 barangay taps wind power to boost disaster preparedness By Panay News -Thursday, March 27, 2025 ILOILO – Combining clean energy with disaster readiness, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 6 has launched an innovative project that aims to empower a remote island village in Concepcion town. The initiative, known as the DAGAT Project — short for Driving Advancement, Generating Access, and Transforming Small Island Communities — goes beyond simply electrifying Barangay Botlog. By installing a small-scale wind turbine, the project seeks to showcase how renewable energy can strengthen not just sustainability but also resilience in far-flung areas prone to natural hazards. ComScore Observer “In this pilot project, we want to demonstrate that we have a local capability here in the region to produce this kind of technology, and is effective in providing renewable energy to our island barangays,” said Keithlyn Sarah Bernardino, assistant director for technical operations at DOST-6. The wind turbine, developed with partners Central Philippine University, the Northern Iloilo State University Affiliated Renewable Energy Center, and the municipal government of Concepcion, will supply electricity to key public facilities such as the barangay hall, gymnasium, church, day care center, and street lights. While the project will not yet power individual homes, it marks a significant step toward sustainable infrastructure in underserved communities. Crucially, the project integrates climate resilience by training locals in disaster preparedness and basic first aid. “We also capacitated them in disaster risk reduction and management wherein we conducted training on disaster preparedness and basic first aid and we assisted them in coming up with an emergency and evacuation plan and establishing their DRRM corner,” Bernardino added. With installation already underway and operationalization targeted this year, DOST hopes the pilot will serve as a replicable model for other island barangays across Western Visayas./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, March 27 ). Iloilo barangay taps wind power to boost disaster preparedness. Panay News, 2&17. 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 barangay taps wind power to boost disaster preparedness Description An account of the resource ILOILO – Combining clean energy with disaster readiness, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 6 has launched an innovative project that aims to empower a remote island village in Concepcion 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/iloilo-barangay-taps-wind-power-to-boost-disaster-preparedness/" 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 March 27, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Wind power Emergency management Concepcion 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 strengthens early childhood education through private partnership By Ma. Theresa Ladiao -Tuesday, March 25, 2025 "Children need to play. We must provide them with a pleasing environment so that when they grow up, they become good citizens of our country. I am very happy that the foundation chose Iloilo City to be part of their advocacy to help build our children," said Mayor Jerry Treñas who signed a Memorandum of Agreement for the "Gulong ng Karunungan: Abot-Alam ng Kabataan" project on Monday, March 24. S. BACINILLO/ILOILO CITY PIO PHOTO "Children need to play. We must provide them with a pleasing environment so that when they grow up, they become good citizens of our country. I am very happy that the foundation chose Iloilo City to be part of their advocacy to help build our children," said Mayor Jerry Treñas who signed a Memorandum of Agreement for the "Gulong ng Karunungan: Abot-Alam ng Kabataan" project on Monday, March 24. S. BACINILLO/ILOILO CITY PIO PHOTO ILOILO City – In a bid to enhance early childhood education and development, the city government has teamed up with PhilSeven Foundation, Inc. to launch the Gulong ng Karunungan: Abot-Alam ng Kabataan project. ComScore Observer The initiative, formalized through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed yesterday, March 24, aims to provide young Ilonggos with alternative learning opportunities, particularly in underserved communities. “Education is the foundation of a brighter future. We are grateful that PhilSeven Foundation has chosen Iloilo City as a partner in this advocacy to nurture our children,” said Mayor Jerry Treñas. With guidance from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) led by Teresa Gelogo, RSW, the program will be rolled out in 202 daycare centers across 108 barangays here. To support the initiative, the foundation donated two educational facilities equipped with learning materials, reinforcing its commitment to accessible and inclusive education. The Gulong ng Karunungan program features a mobile school that delivers education directly to children, especially those in remote areas. The initiative integrates lessons on basic education, values formation, and hygiene, aligned with the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System and the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Early Childhood Care and Development program. “Naniniwala ang 7-Eleven sa importansya ng edukasyon ng mga batang Pilipino,” said Ramon Almira, District Manager for Visayas 2 of Philippine Seven Corporation./PN Citation Citation of the article Ladiao, M. T. ( 2025, March 25 ). Iloilo City strengthens early childhood education through private partnership. 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 strengthens early childhood education through private partnership Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – In a bid to enhance early childhood education and development, the city government has teamed up with PhilSeven Foundation, Inc. to launch the Gulong ng Karunungan: Abot-Alam ng Kabataan project. 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-strengthens-early-childhood-education-through-private-partnership/" 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 March 25, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Early childhood education Public-private sector cooperation Iloilo City 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 Youth and family empowerment pushed; San Dionisio, Passi City to build family and youth dev’t centers with P5-M grant each By Ime Sornito -Tuesday, March 25, 2025 Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. (third from right) hands over a P5-million check to San Dionisio, Iloilo’s Mayor Darwin Bajada for the construction of a Family and Youth Development Center (FYDC). With him during the turnover are Provincial Population Office head Atty. Ruel Von D. Superio and Provincial Engineer Romeo C. Andig. Photo from Balita Halin sa Kapitolyo Facebook Page Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. (third from right) hands over a P5-million check to San Dionisio, Iloilo’s Mayor Darwin Bajada for the construction of a Family and Youth Development Center (FYDC). With him during the turnover are Provincial Population Office head Atty. Ruel Von D. Superio and Provincial Engineer Romeo C. Andig. Photo from Balita Halin sa Kapitolyo Facebook Page ILOILO – In a step toward empowering families and the youth, the municipality San Dionisio and Passi City are set to construct their own Family and Youth Development Centers (FYDC), following the turnover of P5-million in funding to each locality from the Iloilo provincial government. ComScore Observer Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. personally handed over the checks to San Dionisio’s Mayor Darwin Bajada and Passi City’s Population Officer IV Ma. Theresa P. Buena on Monday, March 24. They were accompanied by their respective municipal and city treasurers during the ceremonial turnover, which was also attended by Provincial Population Office (PPO) head Atty. Ruel Von Superio and Provincial Engineer Romeo Andig. The two-storey FYDCs are a flagship infrastructure project under the provincial government’s Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally Competitive, and Resilient Province of Iloilo (MoRProGRes) agenda. These centers aim to provide dedicated spaces for programs focusing on responsible parenthood, adolescent health, and youth development. “These facilities will serve as hubs for life-changing programs and services for young people and families, especially in rural and underserved areas,” said Defensor. The centers will host Pre-Marriage Orientation and Counselling (PMOC) sessions, skills training for youth, and a range of population and development activities. They will also house offices for local Population Program Officers, Barangay Service Point Officers (BSPOs), Local Youth Development Offices (LYDOs), the Sangguniang Kabataan, and the Local Youth Development Council (LYDC). According to the PPO, the FYDCs are a pioneering move to institutionalize youth and family support programs in local government units, fostering inclusive development at the grassroots level. Construction of the centers is expected to begin soon./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, March 25 ). Youth and family empowerment pushed; San Dionisio, Passi City to build family and youth dev’t centers with P5-M grant each. 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 Youth and family empowerment pushed; San Dionisio, Passi City to build family and youth dev’t centers with P5-M grant each Description An account of the resource ILOILO – In a step toward empowering families and the youth, the municipality San Dionisio and Passi City are set to construct their own Family and Youth Development Centers (FYDC), following the turnover of P5-million in funding to each locality from the Iloilo provincial government. 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/youth-and-family-empowerment-pushed-san-dionisio-passi-city-to-build-family-and-youth-devt-centers-with-p5-m-grant-each/" 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 March 25, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Youth development Parenthood Iloilo Provincial Population Office (PPO) Passi City 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 Iloilo guv calls out drivers, warns parents: ‘Don’t let your kids drive’ By Ime Sornito -Monday, March 24, 2025 The Iloilo Police Provincial Office logged 3,011 vehicular accidents, leading to 123 deaths and 1,226 injuries, from January to October 2024. Photo shows an aftermath of a collision between two motorcycles in Sitio Nangka, Barangay Calamigan, Concepcion, Iloilo in January this year. PHOTO COURTESY OF BOMBO RADYO ILOILO /FACEBOOK The Iloilo Police Provincial Office logged 3,011 vehicular accidents, leading to 123 deaths and 1,226 injuries, from January to October 2024. Photo shows an aftermath of a collision between two motorcycles in Sitio Nangka, Barangay Calamigan, Concepcion, Iloilo in January this year. PHOTO COURTESY OF BOMBO RADYO ILOILO /FACEBOOK ILOILO – Alarmed by the rising number of road accidents across the province — some involving underage drivers — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has issued a call to action: obey traffic rules and keep minors off the road. ComScore Observer “You follow the traffic rules. That’s the problem here — we have too many vehicles, too many drivers who don’t know or ignore the rules. The road isn’t going anywhere; we must be the ones to adjust,” Defensor stressed in a media interview following reports of traffic-related fatalities. From January to October 2024 alone, the Iloilo Provincial Police Office (IPPO) recorded 3,011 vehicular accidents, leading to 123 deaths and 1,226 injuries. Reckless driving topped the causes with 2,230 cases, followed by driver error (683), drunk driving (78), and mechanical failure (20). The governor also raised concern over children and teenagers illegally operating motorcycles and tricycles, especially along highways. “Parents should not allow their kids to drive, especially without a license. It’s not just illegal — it’s deadly,” he warned. Defensor’s reminder follows the province’s first-ever Road Safety Summit held last November 2024, spearheaded by the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) with key transport stakeholders, including the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). Provincial Administrator Raul Banias called the summit “a clarion call” to address the province’s silent but deadly epidemic. He pointed out that road crashes in Iloilo cause five times more deaths than dengue—but receive far less urgency. He noted as Iloilo progresses and modernizes, its roads become wider and better paved. Yet, with this progress comes a troubling increase in the volume of vehicles — two-wheeled, three-wheeled, and four-wheeled alike. Reckless driving has become an all-too-common occurrence, leading to accidents that claim lives and shatter families.” “When we hear of a dengue-related death, we spring into action. We clean our surroundings. We declare states of emergency. But when it comes to road accidents, we seem to turn a blind eye. Why? Is this not just as urgent? Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy that deserves our immediate attention. Each accident is a call for us to awaken from our complacency and take action,” said Banias. Drawing from his own experience as a former mayor of Concepcion, Banias said local initiatives like enforcing speed limits and educating unlicensed drivers significantly reduced accidents in their town. “We can replicate this success across the province, but it requires unity and resolve,” he said. National health authorities have also flagged road safety as a top concern. Department of Health (DOH) secretary Dr. Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa recently underscored that road traffic injuries are now the leading cause of death among children and young adults aged 5 to 29. “This is not just a public health issue; it is a human rights issue,” Herbosa said, calling on all sectors to support safer roads through evidence-based policies and improved emergency care. Defensor, Banias, and Herbosa all agree: without decisive and collective action, Iloilo’s roads will remain deadly — not just for reckless drivers, but for innocent lives lost to preventable tragedies./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, March 24 ). Iloilo guv calls out drivers, warns parents: ‘Don’t let your kids drive’. 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 Iloilo guv calls out drivers, warns parents: ‘Don’t let your kids drive’ Description An account of the resource ILOILO – Alarmed by the rising number of road accidents across the province — some involving underage drivers — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has issued a call to action: obey traffic rules and keep minors off the road. 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-guv-calls-out-drivers-warns-parents-dont-let-your-kids-drive/" 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 March 24, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Traffic accidents Highway law Traffic safety Traffic regulations Iloilo Provincial Police Office Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) 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 GOAL: MAKE ILOILO RABIES-FREE BY 2030; LGUs urged to prioritize funding for human rabies vaccines By Ime Sornito -Monday, March 17, 2025 More local governments are now integrating rabies programs into their local health agenda, establishing Animal Bite Treatment Centers, and allocating budgets to keep these centers operational, says Marisil Cabiguin, Provincial Rabies Program coordinator of the Iloilo Provincial Health Office. More local governments are now integrating rabies programs into their local health agenda, establishing Animal Bite Treatment Centers, and allocating budgets to keep these centers operational, says Marisil Cabiguin, Provincial Rabies Program coordinator of the Iloilo Provincial Health Office. ILOILO – The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) has called on all 43 local chief executives in the province to prioritize rabies prevention programs, particularly by allocating funds for the procurement of human rabies vaccines, in line with the goal of achieving a rabies-free Iloilo by 2030. ComScore Observer IPHO Provincial Rabies Program coordinator Marisil Cabiguin made the appeal during the first episode of ‘Hinun-anon sa PHO’ on the IPHO Facebook page, where discussions focused on rabies prevention and control in observance of Rabies Awareness Month under the theme “Rabies-Free Pets, Safer Filipino Families.” “One of the challenges I encountered when I took over the program was the lack of prioritization by some local government units (LGUs) for the rabies program. Some LGUs have yet to fully grasp the importance of rabies prevention,” Cabiguin stated. She, however, acknowledged that more LGUs are now integrating rabies programs into their local health agenda, establishing Animal Bite Treatment Centers (ABTCs), and allocating budgets to keep these centers operational. Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the brain and spinal cord of mammals, including humans. The virus is most commonly transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, often dogs. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. Rabies is primarily spread through the saliva of infected animals. A bite or scratch from a rabid animal can introduce the virus into a person’s body. The virus travels through the nerves to the brain, where it causes inflammation and damage. It is crucial for anyone who is bitten or scratched by an animal to seek immediate medical attention. Expansion of Rabies Treatment Centers Currently, 19 LGUs have existing ABTCs, namely Oton, Miag-ao, San Joaquin, Alimodian, Pavia, Santa Barbara, Zarraga, Maasin, Dueñas, Ajuy, Concepcion, Lemery, San Dionisio, Leganes, Carles, Sara, Banate, Mina, and Batad. Additionally, ABTCs are set to open in Igbaras, Tubungan, Guimbal, Leon, Tigbauan, Badiangan, and Balasan. All 13 district hospitals in the province also have designated ABTCs. Cabiguin emphasized that a major challenge is the shortage of human rabies vaccines. She urged LGUs to allocate funds annually for vaccine procurement to supplement the provincial government’s budget, which remains insufficient due to the rising number of animal bite cases. “Despite the substantial budget set by the provincial government each year for human rabies vaccines, it is still not enough given the increasing number of animal bite cases,” she explained. Rising Cases and Fatalities According to IPHO data, the number of animal bite cases has significantly increased over the years: * 2021 – 40,183 cases, 12 deaths * 2022 – 46,308 cases, 4 deaths * 2023 – 72,805 cases, 5 deaths * 2024 – 70,405 cases, 5 deaths The five rabies-related deaths in 2024 were reported in Pototan, Barotac Nuevo, Alimodian, Estancia, and Mina. Symptoms of rabies include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, and difficulty swallowing. In later stages, patients may experience paralysis, hydrophobia (fear of water), and seizures. Death typically occurs within a few days to weeks after the onset of symptoms due to respiratory failure. Rabies can be prevented through vaccination and responsible pet ownership. To avoid exposure: * Ensure pets, especially dogs and cats, are vaccinated against rabies. * Avoid contact with stray animals, and do not attempt to handle wild animals. * If bitten, immediately clean the wound with soap and water, apply antiseptic, and seek medical care. Strengthening Rabies Control Committees IPHO is also urging LGUs to make their Municipal and Barangay Rabies Control Committees (M/BRCCs) fully functional. The responsibilities of the BRCC include: * conducting and supervising dog immunization activities * maintaining an updated registry of vaccinated and unvaccinated dogs * conducting regular information campaigns on rabies prevention * promoting responsible pet ownership * enforcing barangay ordinances related to rabies prevention * monitoring animal bite cases and referring victims for proper medical attention * supporting municipal rabies prevention activities Addressing Traditional Practices and Public Behavior Another challenge, Cabiguin noted, is changing public behavior. Despite the availability of ABTCs in most municipalities, some residents still seek traditional healers (tandok) instead of proper medical treatment. “We need to change this mindset. Once bitten or scratched by an animal, individuals must immediately wash the wound with clean water and soap, apply alcohol or betadine, and proceed to an ABTC for proper medical care,” she urged. To further strengthen the rabies program, the IPHO provides technical assistance to LGUs, training rural health unit personnel to manage animal bite cases effectively. They also conduct lectures in municipalities and barangays to ensure the functionality of M/BRCCs. To encourage compliance, the IPHO grants awards and incentives to LGUs with functional M/BRCCs, setting an example for others. Rabies-Free Barangays and Future Declarations Currently, 32 island barangays and islets in the municipalities of Concepcion, Carles, and Ajuy have been declared rabies-free. The IPHO, in coordination with the Sub-National Rabies Control Committee Technical Working Group (TWG) Region 6 — comprising the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO), Department of Health (DOH), and Department of Agriculture (DA) Region 6 — is working to have Batad and Estancia declared rabies-free before the end of the year. “Iloilo has the highest number of rabies-free declared areas in the Philippines, with 32 island barangays and islets recognized as rabies-free,” Cabiguin said. The criteria for declaring a barangay rabies-free include: * vaccination of at least 70% of the dog population for two consecutive years * implementation of local ordinances on rabies prevention and control * presence of an effective rabies control committee * establishment of an operative surveillance system * assurance of available human and animal anti-rabies vaccines * health education and advocacy programs * integration of rabies awareness in elementary school curricula * observance of Rabies Awareness Month and World Rabies Day. With strengthened collaboration among LGUs, health agencies, and communities, the province aims to sustain its rabies control efforts and achieve a rabies-free Iloilo by 2030./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, March 17 ). GOAL: MAKE ILOILO RABIES-FREE BY 2030; LGUs urged to prioritize funding for human rabies vaccines. 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 GOAL: MAKE ILOILO RABIES-FREE BY 2030; LGUs urged to prioritize funding for human rabies vaccines Description An account of the resource ILOILO – The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) has called on all 43 local chief executives in the province to prioritize rabies prevention programs, particularly by allocating funds for the procurement of human rabies vaccines, in line with the goal of achieving a rabies-free Iloilo by 2030. 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/goal-make-iloilo-rabies-free-by-2030-lgus-urged-to-prioritize-funding-for-human-rabies-vaccines/" 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 March 17, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Rabies virus Communicable diseases in animals Zoonoses Rabies vaccines Iloilo Provincial Health Office 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 State-of-the-art ‘resilience hub’ opens in Carles to strengthen disaster response By Panay News -Thursday, March 13, 2025 Photo courtesy of Lee Ann Debuque BY DHARLYN MAE QUBING University of Antique Intern ILOILO – The provincial government has inaugurated a state-of-the-art Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Inter-Agency Resilience Hub in Carles to enhance disaster preparedness and emergency response in the coastal municipality. Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. led the ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 10, marking the opening of the P10-million two-story facility. The project was jointly funded by the provincial government and the municipal disaster fund of Carles, each contributing P5 million. ComScore Observer Originally conceptualized as the operations center for the Provincial Bantay Dagat Task Force and a command post for monitoring the Visayan Sea, the facility has been expanded into a centralized command hub for various emergency responses. It will address threats related to climate change, food security, and public health, including efforts to combat dengue in the province. “We recognize that there are prevailing, lingering, and continuing national emergencies,” Defensor said, emphasizing the need for proactive and integrated disaster response strategies. The hub will serve as a municipal extension of the Provincial Civil Defense Service of Iloilo (ProCiD Serv Iloilo), a program spearheaded by Defensor to coordinate responses not only to disaster threats but also to public health, crime, and education-related concerns. Cornelio Salinas, chief of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), highlighted the hub’s modern communication and monitoring tools, which will facilitate real-time information gathering, swift decision-making, and coordinated emergency operations. The facility will also be used for disaster planning, simulation exercises, and capacity-building programs for responders and local communities. Local officials, including Mayor Siegfredo Betita and Vice Mayor Arnold Betita II, attended the launch alongside representatives from other municipalities interested in adopting similar resilience hubs. The provincial government has also initiated plans to construct additional resilience hubs in other coastal municipalities, including Estancia, Banate, Concepcion, and Ajuy, as part of Iloilo’s broader commitment to disaster preparedness and community safety./PN Citation Citation of the article Qubing, D. M. ( 2025, March 13 ). State-of-the-art ‘resilience hub’ opens in Carles to strengthen disaster response. Panay News, 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 State-of-the-art ‘resilience hub’ opens in Carles to strengthen disaster response Description An account of the resource ILOILO – The provincial government has inaugurated a state-of-the-art Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Inter-Agency Resilience Hub in Carles to enhance disaster preparedness and emergency response in the coastal municipality. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Qubing, Dharlyn Mae Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/state-of-the-art-resilience-hub-opens-in-carles-to-strengthen-disaster-response/" 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 March 13, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Hazard mitigation Emergency management Public safety Carles 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 EDUCATION CHAMPION: Treñas’ Uswag Scholarship benefits over 29,000 Ilonggo students By Panay News -Wednesday, March 5, 2025 INVESTING IN ILOILO CITY’S FUTURE. A group of Uswag scholars share an insightful conversation with Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, underscoring the city government’s commitment to investing in the future of the Ilonggo youth. Through the Uswag Scholarship program and other educational initiatives, the Treñas administration remains dedicated to empowering and nurturing the next generation. INVESTING IN ILOILO CITY’S FUTURE. A group of Uswag scholars share an insightful conversation with Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, underscoring the city government’s commitment to investing in the future of the Ilonggo youth. Through the Uswag Scholarship program and other educational initiatives, the Treñas administration remains dedicated to empowering and nurturing the next generation. ILOILO City – For 15 years now, the Uswag Scholarship, a pet program of Mayor Jerry P. Treñas since he was a congressman, has benefitted a total of 29,389 Ilonggo students in this southern city. The scholarship did not just produce graduates but achievers as 419 of them made it with Latin honors. Of the figure, 293 are Cum Laude, 123 are Magna Cum Laude, and three are Summa Cum Laude. Currently, there are 2,000 students enjoying the Uswag Scholarship benefits for school year 2024-2025, which include P5,000 in cash assistance per semester. Many of the 27,000 graduate scholars excel in their respective fields, with some now professionals, including doctors, lawyers, accountants, teachers, engineers, and seafarers. Mayor Treñas said seeing the scholars graduate and contribute to the community, especially by improving the quality of life of their families, is the greatest fulfilment of the program. “I feel accomplished leaving the Uswag Scholarship as one of my legacies. I am confident that our Uswag leaders will continue this program because it is an investment in the future of our Ilonggo youth, some of whom could be our future leaders,” he said. For the scholars, the Uswag Scholarship is not just a support system; it has become one of their biggest motivations to excel academically. “I worked hard in my studies for my parents and for the people who believed in me — especially the Uswag Scholarship program, which became one of my biggest motivations to strive for excellence, not just for myself, but for the community that has supported me,” said Uswag scholar Jean-Ann D. Laurilla, who graduated with a degree in BS Community Development and earned Latin honors at the Iloilo Science and Technology University. For Laurilla, her scholarship journey doesn’t end with graduation. She vows to continue striving, keep learning, and make a positive impact as her way of giving back to the community. Another scholar, Keith Bryan P. Palomado, who graduated with a degree in BS Maritime Transportation at John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (Arevalo), shared that the financial support provided by the Uswag Scholarship was not only a relief to his family but also instilled in him a sense of responsibility and determination to excel. “I am proud to have been part of this program, and it inspired me to work hard and achieve my goals. I also appreciate the government’s commitment to education, which made a significant difference in our lives,” Palomado said. Meanwhile, as chairman of the Local School Board, Treñas emphasized the relentless efforts to improve education in Iloilo City. The construction of school buildings, upgrading of school facilities, increasing resources, and supporting students and teachers remain top priorities. The commitment to education also includes programs for Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) and basic education, with 202 modern ECCD centers built. All these efforts earned the city the Gawad Edukampyon para sa Lokal na Pamahalaan award for an outstanding ECCD program. Moreover, through the Special Education Fund (SEF), the Treñas administration has invested over P2 billion since 2019 for the construction and rehabilitation of school buildings, classrooms, and other facilities, benefiting students from early childhood care and development to senior high school. Additionally, the Iloilo City Community College (ICCC) and the Technical Institute of Iloilo City (TIIC) provide free education and have produced thousands of graduates. In 2023, ICCC introduced new programs, BS in Special Needs Education and BS in Criminology, in addition to BS in Tourism Management and BS in Office Administration Learning resources were enhanced by setting up library hubs, with seven public libraries in operation and more planned. Private sector donations have included books, computers, and learning materials. The city’s sports program for the youth, the Iloilo City Sports Academy, was a national finalist for the Galing Pook Award in both 2023 and 2024./PN Citation Citation of the article Sornito, I. ( 2025, March 5 ). EDUCATION CHAMPION: Treñas’ Uswag Scholarship benefits over 29,000 Ilonggo students. 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 EDUCATION CHAMPION: Treñas’ Uswag Scholarship benefits over 29,000 Ilonggo students Description An account of the resource ILOILO City – For 15 years now, the Uswag Scholarship, a pet program of Mayor Jerry P. Treñas since he was a congressman, has benefitted a total of 29,389 Ilonggo students in this southern city. 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/education-champion-trenas-uswag-scholarship-benefits-over-29000-ilonggo-students/" 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 March 5, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Scholarships Uswag Ilonggo Partylist 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 emphasizes safety amid heightened fire threats By Panay News -Tuesday, March 4, 2025 By DHARLYN MAE QUBING Intern, University of Antique ILOILO – As the threat of fire looms, the Iloilo provincial government is ramping up its campaign for Fire Prevention Month this March, urging residents and businesses alike to take immediate steps to safeguard themselves against potential disasters. With fire-related incidents continuing to pose a significant risk to lives and properties, the provincial government is calling on the public to adopt fire safety measures and increase awareness on how simple actions can drastically reduce fire hazards. The risk of fire is always present, and it only takes a moment for a small spark to escalate into a life-threatening disaster, according to the provincial government. This month, it is intensifying its fire safety campaign to ensure that everyone knows what to do before, during, and after a fire. March has been designated as Fire Prevention Month in the Philippines to commemorate the anniversary of the founding of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in 1991, an agency tasked with ensuring fire safety across the country. This month-long observance serves as a reminder of the importance of fire prevention, especially as incidents often spike during the dry season, when fire hazards are heightened. Through its Balita sa Kapitolyo Facebook Page, the provincial government is actively disseminating fire prevention tips, hoping to reach as many households and institutions as possible. They are encouraging everyone to be vigilant and adopt these simple yet effective safety measures: * Unplug devices when not in use and avoid overloading circuits. * Check for leaks and store liquefied petroleum gas tanks in well-ventilated areas. * Enforce a strict “No Smoking” policy at home and dispose of cigarette butts properly. * Keep flammable materials like candles, lighters, and matches out of children’s reach. * Establish emergency and evacuation plans, and familiarize everyone with escape routes. * Close doors to contain the fire, breathe through a wet cloth to avoid smoke inhalation, and remember to call 911. Fire safety isn’t just the responsibility of the government, it’s a collective effort, according to Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., adding that community involvement and preparedness could mean the difference between life and death. In line with this initiative, the Department of Interior and Local Government in Iloilo City is also urging both public and private institutions to actively participate in the month-long campaign under the theme, “Sa Pag-iwas sa Sunog, Hindi ka Nag-iisa”./PN Citation Citation of the article Qubing, D. M. ( 2025, March 4 ). Iloilo emphasizes safety amid heightened fire threats. 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 Iloilo emphasizes safety amid heightened fire threats Description An account of the resource ILOILO – As the threat of fire looms, the Iloilo provincial government is ramping up its campaign for Fire Prevention Month this March, urging residents and businesses alike to take immediate steps to safeguard themselves against potential disasters. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Qubing, Darlyn Mae Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://www.panaynews.net/iloilo-emphasizes-safety-amid-heightened-fire-threats/" 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 March 4, 2025 Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Article Subject The topic of the resource Fire prevention Fire risk assessment Iloilo City Iloilo Province