2,954 balikbayan boxes turned over to DMW in Davao City

 By Ivy Tejano

Published May 29, 2025 06:08 pm

DAVAO CITY – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) formally turned over 2,954 “balikbayan” (returning Filipino) boxes to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) during a ceremonial turnover on Thursday morning, May 29, at the Terminal Facilities and Service Corp., Port of Davao, Barangay Ilang, Tibungco here.

The BOC said in its official Facebook page that all the abandoned boxes, sent by overseas Filipino workers from various countries, were left unclaimed after being mishandled and neglected by unreliable freight forwarding firms, then held at the Port of Davao.

In an interview with the Davao media, 42-year-old OFW Lorna de Grasya from Kuwait could not contain her happiness upon hearing about the turnover of the balikbayan boxes. She said she is close to receiving the packages she prepared for her family after two years and eight months.

Lawyer Francis Ron de Guzman, DMW assistant secretary for the Reintegration Service, assured that the 2,954 packages from 12x40 containers they received at the BOC Port of Davao will be delivered directly to OFWs' homes. He said that the DMW will shoulder the delivery fee.

“It’s not the box we’re honoring. We’re honoring the hard work, sacrifices, and love behind each and every package. Rest assured, your government remains steadfast in ensuring that all these balikbayan boxes, along with the hope they carry, will reach your homes,” De Guzman said.

He said balikbayan boxes, often packed with food, clothes, and other gifts, are heartfelt symbols of love and sacrifices of the Filipino workers abroad. He added that for OFWs, these boxes help them stay connected with their families and show their dedication to giving them a better life.

De Guzman emphasized that the turnover of the packages means more than just handing over boxes. He said that the turnover of these balikbayan boxes represents a significant milestone in government accountability, compassion, and solidarity with OFWs and their families.

On the part of the BOC, it said the turnover of the packages marks the culmination of months of dedicated coordination and groundwork that began in 2024, when Customs officials proactively reached out to the DMW to address the issue of mishandled and abandoned packages.

The BOC said that from securing legal permissions to handling documentation and logistics, they worked to ensure that the balikbayan boxes could be released through lawful and proper means. It added that the DMW will facilitate the distribution and delivery of the packages.

Under the leadership of Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio, the BOC vowed to continue to pursue reforms that go beyond trade and enforcement. It said that by aligning its efforts with the needs of the people, the bureau only showed that its service can be both efficient and compassionate.

New media platform for Mindanao launched

By Ivy Tejano

DAVAO CITY – A new media platform focused on showcasing Mindanao’s true identity—its people, cuisine, vibrant culture, and flourishing industries—was officially launched on Wednesday, April 2, in a mall here.

During the Wednesdays Media Forum, Davao resident and MindaNow Network chief executive officer Carl Lorenzana Magno launched the MindaNow Network, highlighting Mindanao’s authentic stories beyond its well-known festivals, scenic beaches, and mountain peaks.

“MindaNow aims to showcase the population—the real stars for this platform—and Mindanao as a land of rich traditions and a center for innovation and growth, sharing the diverse stories in the region, the Philippines, and the rest of the world,” Magno said.

Magno highlighted that, unlike mainstream media, their network operates independently, maintains a family-friendly approach, and prioritizes factual reporting. He also shared plans to relaunch “MindaNow Network News” in July as a news magazine program featuring individuals who positively impact society.

He also mentioned that bloggers and vloggers would be encouraged to share accurate and reliable stories, with incentives offered for credible content. One of the program’s key ideas is to involve bloggers and vloggers in its news segments.

Magno said the MindaNow Network has partnered with the Philippine News Agency (PNA) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) to ensure the content’s accuracy and fairness before being broadcast and address false information about Mindanao.

When asked why the network launched here only now, Magno highlighted the importance of the current administration’s support and the opportunity to showcase more of Mindanao’s progress. He admitted that the network officially began rolling out on December 2, 2024.

“To build a substantial content library, the team traveled to more areas—Cotabato City, General Santos City, Dinagat Island, Koronadal, and Siargao—capturing stories that reflect the heart of Mindanao,” Magno said, adding that the region is far different from the yesterdays.

“With all of these developments and peaceful initiatives, we can visit the region freely and show the world how peaceful it is here. We are not the old Mindanao they are talking about,” the MindaNow CEO said, referring to the earlier comparison of Mindanao to Sub-Saharan Africa.

Among the MindaNow Network programs are travel features—which explore Mindanao’s scenic landscapes from beaches to mountains; lifestyle segments (about artisans, entrepreneurs, and change-makers of Mindanao); business insights (economic trends, progress, etc.); and sports.

Magno is no stranger to pioneering media ventures. He said he launched Lakbay TV, the world’s first travel channel, in 1997, later becoming the Living Asia Channel. After moving to Las Vegas, he founded Asian Culture TV and Fil-Am TV for Asians and Filipinos to be media-represented.

The MindaNow CEO said his inspiration stemmed from recognizing the underrepresentation of Asians in American media. He added that when he was in Vegas, he also created Vegas Plus, a platform connecting independent broadcasters to over 30 million Asians and Asian Americans.

He said with their distribution partnership with Reliance Broadcasting Unlimited, which recently acquired Sky Cable, MindaNow Network would reach 11 million homes through Roku, Sky TV and Sky Direct, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Vimeo, IBC, and other platforms.

Magno said with backing from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), Discovery Samal, and Samal Shores, the network is off to a promising start but needs additional support to expand its reach and impact.

With travel advisories for Mindanao already lifted by Japan and some parts of Europe, Magno said he believes that the media will play a key role in changing perceptions about Mindanao, with the participation of the media and digital content creators.

VP Sara cites people’s resilience in Araw ng Dabaw message

BY IVY TEJANO

Mar 4, 2025 05:12 PM 

DAVAO CITY – Vice President Sara Duterte cited the resilience, unity, and unwavering hope of the people of Davao in her message for the 88th Araw ng Dabaw celebration.

DUTERTE (FB)

Duterte emphasized the city’s steadfast commitment to growth despite challenges. 

“In this celebration, we give thanks not only for the progress and victories of the city but also for reflecting once again on the rich culture and history of us, the Davaoeños,” Duterte said in a statement on Saturday, March 1.

Hundreds of Davaoeños gathered at Rizal Park on San Pedro St. on Saturday night to witness the “Pasiugnang Pagsaulog” that kicked off the start of the Araw ng Dabaw celebration with the theme “88 Years Strong: One Davao.”

Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, chairman of the city council Committee on Tourism and Beautification, said the theme is a powerful cue that through every challenge, Dabawenyos remain steadfast, resilient, and united as one Davao.

“Like the eagle, the city’s iconic symbol, Davaoeños are known for rising above challenges and striving for greater heights. Its soaring flight reflects our boundless potential and endless possibilities that lie ahead for Davao City,” Alejandre said. 

This year’s festivities began with a lively show by local talents – Ralph Angelo Merced, Rap Cañedo, Jona Soquite, D’Squared Cru, Studio 51, and UM Chorale – and presentation of Mutya ng Dabaw 2025 and the official theme song “Dabawenyo Ko.”

Mayor Sebastian Duterte, in a message read by acting Vice Mayor and Councilor Alberto T. Ungab, said the Araw ng Dabaw celebration reflects the Davaoeños’ strength shaped by unity, resilience, determination, and compassion for fellow man.

“Our progress would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of every responsible, law-abiding, and peace-loving resident. For the past 88 years, Davaoeños have contributed to the city’s growth and success,” Mayor Duterte said.

As the city opens the 88th Araw ng Dabaw festivities, Mayor Duterte emphasized that the event also honors those who have shaped Davao City into the firm and dynamic city it is today, especially former Mayor and President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

A key highlight of the program was an animated video showing the city’s history from 1848, when it was called Nueva Vergara, to its renaming in 1936 and ongoing growth until its present leaders. 

“We thank and salute you all,” Mayor Duterte said.

Mayor Duterte encouraged people to celebrate with pride and enthusiasm while upholding the culture of security and discipline that defines all Davaoeños. He called for unity, responsibility, and peace to ensure safe and meaningful celebration.

Rep. Duterte conducts bloodletting drive to benefit people of Davao

BY IVY TEJANO

Feb 7, 2025 09:58 PM

  

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DAVAO CITY – At least 500 individuals participated in the bloodletting drive launched by the Office of First Congressional District Representative Paolo Duterte on Thursday, Feb. 6, at the Davao City Recreation Center (DCRC).

PEOPLE donate blood in a bloodletting activity initiated by Rep. Paolo Duterte in collaboration with the Barangay Health Workers and Southern Philippines Medical Center at the Davao City Recreation Center on Thursday, Feb. 6. (Ivy Tejano) 

The bloodletting activity was conducted in collaboration with barangay health workers from 54 barangays in the first district and the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC).

Duterte’s son Rigo, who facilitated the activity and interacted with donors and barangay officials, said the campaign initiated by his father aims to aid those in need and save lives through blood donations.

“Our less-fortunate brothers and sisters will benefit from this campaign as obtaining blood can be challenging and costly, and through this activity, they no longer need to borrow and spend money for bags of blood,” Rigo said.

Rigo thanked donors, volunteers, government officials, and health workers who supported the activity.  

Joel Hagonos, 25, bus conductor and donor from Barangay 6-A, said this was his second time donating to help others and replenish his blood.

Neophyte donor Ryan Jay Veras, 20, a barangay responder in Maa, has the same reason as Hagonos. He said donating blood is safe and compared the feeling to being lightly pricked by a mosquito.

Carlita Lagonson Bontog, president of the Barangay Health Workers in Catalunan Grande, said the bloodletting drive helps barangays and hospitals satisfy blood requirement. She added that having stored blood ensures quick response in emergencies.

“I was once afraid of needles, but reality hit hard, and a family member needed blood. I realized the importance of donating blood. Since then, I have donated blood for my family and to help those in need,” Bontog said.

Janson Cajegas, blood donor recruitment officer at SPMC, said that to be eligible for blood donation, donors must meet certain requirements. He said a donor must be between 16 and 65 and individuals aged 18 below require parental consent.

“Blood donors must weigh at least 50 kilograms and be in good health, with no symptoms of colds or coughs, have sufficient rest, and no ongoing medication to ensure their safety and those who’ll obtain the blood as this is crucial in saving lives,” Cajegas said. 

He added that it is vital for blood banks to store blood to ensure that it is available for patients who require it.

“Blood has a limited lifespan of 35 days, so regular donations are necessary to maintain the supply in blood centers. Our process includes thorough screening, vital signs check, interviews, testing, and single-use equipment like needles and blood bags to ensure our donors’ safety,” he said.

Cajegas said that there is no need to fear donating blood as medical professionals are present to screen potential donors and determine if they are eligible, thus, it is essential to be honest during the screening process.

The SPMC Blood Bank successfully collected 159 bags of blood during the event. 

Rep. Duterte thanked participants and said donated  blood would significantly help those who urgently need blood transfusions and his office plans to continue the program to support the people of Davao.

Rep. Duterte celebrates Feast of Child Jesus with constituents

BY IVY TEJANO

Jan 21, 2025 10:15 PM 

DAVAO CITY – Davao City first district Rep. Paolo Z. Duterte celebrated the Feast of the Santo Niño or Child Jesus with the people of Purok 6 Pag-asa, Bankerohan, Barangay 5-A, this city, on Monday morning, Jan.  20.

REP. Duterte 

Rep. Duterte was accompanied by son, Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II of the Rigo Atong Amigo, the Puwersa ng Pilipinong Pandagat (PPP) party-list, Ragde Niño Ibuyan, chief of staff of Councilor Edgar P. Ibuyan Jr., and staff of Councilor Temujin Ocampo.

People welcomed Rep. Duterte and his son who interacted with the people.

Residents thanked them for the visit and Rep. Duterte expressed gratitude to the people for their support, love, and trust in him and his family.

“Our sincere gratitude to Congressman Pulong for visiting Capt. Edgar Ibuyan’s humble home and for attending the celebration of the feast of Senor Santo Niño,” Barangay 5-A Councilor Mayette Ibuyan Abayon said.

Rep. Duterte raffled various items and distributed shirts and snacks such as stir-fried noodles and ice cream. 

The lawmaker, through Rigo, has been celebrating the Feast of Santo Niño with the 54 barangays in the first district since Jan. 14. Other zones with the same patron will have yet to celebrate the occasion.

320,000 INC members troop to Davao City rally

BY IVY TEJANO

Jan 13, 2025 04:37 PM 

DAVAO CITY – The Davao City Police Office reported that 320,000 members of the Iglesia ni Cristo from Mindanao participated in the National Rally for Peace on Monday afternoon, Jan. 13, at the San Pedro Square here.

MORE than 300,000 members of the Iglesia ni Cristo from Mindanao participate at the National Rally for Peace on Monday afternoon, Jan. 13, at San Pedro Square in Davao City. (Ivy Tejano)

Police Capt. Hazel Tuazon, spokesperson of the DCPO, said that about 320,000 INC members, including other sectors, joined the rally as of 12 noon.  

She added that the rally was expected to draw a huge number of participants.

Minister Eraño “Bong” Estudillo, regional legal officer of the INC, said the rally aimed to support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. 's position opposing the impeachment move against Vice President Sara Duterte.

INC members from Davao region, Socsksargen region, and Bukidnon said they participated in the rally to advocate for peace and unity in the nation.

According to the religious group, criticizing each other, especially individuals in government positions, would only deepen division within the country. They emphasized that the rally is about peace and unity. 

Walk for Peace

Duterte supporters organized a Walk for Peace simultaneous with the National Rally for Peace to show their support to Duterte.

Duterte supporters, who walked from Roxas Freedom Park to Rizal Park in San Pedro Square here, said the activity aims to protect Duterte from the impeachment complaint being pushed against her. 

Three impeachment complaints have been lodged against Duterte at the House of Representatives, accusing her of constitutional violations, betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, bribery, and other serious offenses related to the alleged misappropriation of confidential funds during her tenure as Vice President and Education Secretary.

Generally peaceful

"The rally was generally peacefully since the start of their gathering," Tuazon said. She added that they are closely monitoring their areas of responsibility aside from the main event here to ensure peace and order.

DCPO acting director Police Col. Hansel Marantan said the more than 1,000 police officers were deployed in strategic areas to maintain peace and order in the rally. He reminded the public to act responsibly.

Police Regional Office-11 spokesperson Police Major Catherine dela Rey said they have deployed additional personnel to strengthen security here and the region and ensure zero untoward incidents.

In line with the rally, the Davao City Council approved an ordinance last Tuesday authorizing the temporary closure of San Pedro, C.M. Recto, C. Bangoy, Iñigo, Pelayo, Bolton, and Rizal Streets from Jan. 11 to 13. 

Classes suspended in Davao City on Jan. 13 due to Iglesia rally

BY IVY TEJANO

Jan 9, 2025 10:10 PM 

The city government announced on Thursday afternoon, Jan. 9, that face-to-face classes on levels in Davao City are suspended on Jan. 13 due to the National Rally for Peace by the Iglesia ni Cristo.

The city government issued Proclamation No. 1, Series of 2025, suspending classes and mandating a skeletal workforce in all national and local offices, including government-owned and -controlled corporations.

The suspension aims to maintain public order, safety, and convenience for the people of Davao City as 10 significant streets in the Central Business District will be temporarily closed during the rally at Rizal Park.

The Davao City Council passed Resolution No. 04022-25 on Jan. 7 requesting city Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte to issue a skeletal workforce arrangement for city government employees to help ease traffic.

Minister Eraño “Bong” Estudillo, regional legal officer of the INC, confirmed during the 20th City Council regular session on Tuesday that around 500,000 INC members from Regions 11, 12, and Bukidnon will attend the rally.

However, the city government requested INC to reduce the number to 300,000 to enable the city to accommodate participants.

“Due to the large number of participants in the upcoming rally, it is essential to ensure residents' and visitors' safety and well-being. It is also duty-bound to safeguard the public and undertake measures to avert any untoward incidents or disasters during the event,” the city government said. 

Public Safety and Security Office head Angel Sumagaysay said class and work suspension will help manage traffic and ensure the convenience of the people, especially those working or studying within the event areas.

"The INC said that the event will push through, whether rain or shine. We expect over 300,000 participants on Monday to enter the city and converge within the downtown area, resulting in traffic and congestion,” Sumagaysay said.

Sumagaysay added that class and work suspension would also avoid inconvenience among students and employees and allow the assigned security for the rally to focus on the safety of the people directly participating.

The city government encouraged private offices and establishments in the areas affected by the peace rally to suspend their work or adopt a work-from-home arrangement for the convenience of their employees.

Davao City logs 0 fireworks-related incidents during holiday season

BY IVY TEJANO

Jan 3, 2025 09:30 PM 

DAVAO CITY – The Bureau of Fire Protection-Davao Fire District reported on Thursday, Jan.  2, zero fireworks-related incidents here during the holiday season.

FIRE Senior Insp.  Richard Quiboquibo speaks during a live broadcast of the Davao City Disaster Radio. (FB)

But Fire Senior Insp.  Richard Quiboquibo, chief of the BFP Fire Safety Enforcement Branch, said they recorded a fire incident on Dec. 27 that razed two houses and damaged two others and displaced families.

The BFP said electrical issues remain to be a leading cause of fires in communities while smoking-related incidents also contributed to fires here.

Quiboquibo advised the people to disconnect electrical appliances, ensure cooking gas tanks are turned off after cooking before leaving home, and exercise awareness when smoking.

Acting Davao City Police Office chief Police Col. Hansel Marantan said that Christmas and New Year here were generally peaceful.

Marantan said over 26,000 police personnel ensured the safety of events and gatherings during the month-long Pasko Fiesta celebration. 

He thanked DCPO personnel and the City Security and Safety Clusters for zero firecracker-related accidents.

“The combined efforts strengthened law enforcement measures and ensured seamless public safety operations across the city,” Marantan said.

Marantan said the city and law enforcement agencies are working hand-in-hand in implementing comprehensive anti-criminality strategies and public safety initiatives.

Early Christmas for orphaned children in Davao City

BY IVY TEJANO

Nov 10, 2024 09:54 PM

  

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DAVAO CITY – About 50 children of the Field of Dreams Children’s Charity Foundation will have a merry Christmas under the Dusit Thani Residence Davao and DusitD2 Davao’s “Stars of Hope” initiative.

DUSIT D2 and Dusit Thani Davao Residence owner, Tomas Lorenzo, hotel officials and staff, representatives of the  Field of Dreams Children’s Charity Foundation, city government of Davao, and the Department of Tourism, formally light the Christmas tree of Dusit Thani Davao Residence on Friday, Nov. 8, in Davao City. (Ivy Tejano)

Dusit Thani Davao introduced Field of Dreams during its Christmas tree-lighting ceremony on Friday evening, Nov. 8, that launched a month of planned activities and underscoring its partnership with the Field of Dreams Children’s Charity Foundation. 

Dusit Thani Residence Davao owner and Torre Lorenzo Development Corp. chief executive officer Tomas P. Lorenzo said it is a tradition to partner with local charity organizations during the Christmas tree-lighting every year to give back to the community.

Lorenzo said this was the first time he attended a tree-lighting here and he is honored to participate in the beautiful celebration. He added that their Christmas tree reflects not just the Philippines but Davao and Mindanao.

“This year, we are introducing the Stars of Hope as our charity program in partnership with two organizations. For Dusit Thani Davao, we have Field of Dreams, and for Dusit Thani Plantation, we have Mabini Federation of Senior Citizens Association,” Lorenzo said.

Jerry Evangelista of the Field of Dreams Children’s Charity Foundation thanked the Lorenzo family and Dusit Thani Davao officials and staff for their commitment to uplifting the lives of the children, emphasizing that their support extends well beyond the holiday season.

"Your commitment to our vision will ensure our children receive hope and fairness beyond the holiday season. Your commitment to positively impacting others’ lives is truly inspiring. Thank you for believing in our cause and making a meaningful difference," Evangelista said.

The Field of Dreams Children’s Charity Foundation is a non-profit organization that operates in Davao City and Davao Region. 

The foundation caters to homeless, dependent, neglected, abandoned, and orphaned boys aged three to 18-years-old.

The city government, through Committee on Tourism and Beautification chairman Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, was present during the event. He delivered the message of Mayor Sebastian Duterte, who thanked the establishment for fostering a sense of community. 

“The Christmas tree-lighting is more than a celebration. It inspires people to reflect on hope, faith, and love, encouraging everyone to bring light to others’ lives.”

Tanya Rabat-Tan, director of the Department of Tourism-11, said in a message read by her assistant, Judy Colaljo, that the department shares joyful celebration with the establishment, emphasizing the success and remarkable progress of Davao’s tourism sector. 

“As we move forward to exciting journeys, let us take inspiration from our past, continue to nurture our present, and show optimism for our future. We hope that we will continue to work collaboratively to ensure the growth and prosperity of our tourism industry,” Tan said.

Tan said 2024 has been promising because of the many milestones they have achieved in the industry. She added that the success and progress in the tourism sector have reflected the resilience, strong cooperation, and unyielding support among its key players and stakeholders.