5 artificial dams formed by 7.8-quake in Davao Occidental

 

By Keith Bacongco

Published Jul 5, 202

DAVAO CITY – The Davao Occidental Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) has reported that five artificial dams have been formed by landslides from the magnitude-7.8 earthquake last month that blocked rivers and streams in the remote areas of Jose Abad Santos town.

However, these have not been drained due to risk of landslides and rains from the easterlies, Jayson Hontimara, chief of the planning and research division of PDRRMO Davao Occidental, said.

The PDRRMO reported seven artificial dams but only five have been documented. Two have yet to be reached for further evaluation. Hontimara said that it is still too risky to clear the artificial dams due to the threat of landslides.

“We do not have yet a timeline as to when we can drain these artificial dams because it will depend on the weather conditions,” he explained during the Regional Resilience Caravan here on Friday, July 3, organized by the Office of Civil Defense-11 and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council-11.

Two are located in Barangay Butuan while the rest are in Barangays Bukid, Camalian and Sugal. They are located in the southern part of JAS, the most affected town in the Davao region.

Last week, the PDRRMO and several volunteers from different agencies drained the biggest dam that formed an artificial lake in the mountainous village of Barangay San Isidro.

Due to its size, the local government has imposed a preemptive evacuation in the downstream Barangay Nuing as it may breach anytime amid heavy rains.

According to the PDRRMO, the artificial lake had a depth of about 20 feet and an area of about 12 hectares.

Hontimara said that they cannot yet determine the size of these artificial dams as well as the number of residents affected pending ongoing validations.

Eight persons were killed, 40 injured, and 13 are still missing from the earthquake in JAS. Fatalities were due to landslides, according to the local government.

A total of 6,700 houses were damaged, 2,648 of which were totally destroyed, it added. The tremor has affected 22, 576 families and at least 4,000 of them are still in evacuation centers.

Security issues may affect gov't response vs El Niño in BARMM – minister

By Keith Bacongco

Published Jun 30, 2026 02:34 pm

MANTAWIL (Keith Bacongco)

DAVAO CITY – One of the lead ministries of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao tasked to implement measures to combat El Niño has acknowledged that security challenges in some parts of the region could affect  government response.

Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) Minister Baileng S. Mantawil admitted that there are some parts in BARMM that could directly affect the timeliness, accessibility, and continuity of government interventions once El Niño hits.

Mantawil is referring to some areas where lawless elements are still operating and some areas where recurring clan wars erupt.

“Security challenges could worsen food security as farmers could no longer cultivate and fisherfolks could not go out fishing in the marshlands,” she said. Security issues in some areas could also impede farmers and fisherfolk from transporting their produce, the MOST minister added.

Aside from MOST, other lead agencies implementing the Bangsamoro Action Plan (BAP) to combat El Niño are the Ministry of Local Government (MILG), Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), and the Bangsamoro Government Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence (Bangsamoro READi).

Mantawil said that security concerns may delay delivery of services, field monitoring, and emergency assistance especially if the dry spell’s impact are already felt.

“This can reduce the effectiveness of the BAP, particularly in areas with lawless elements,” said Mantawil, vice chairperson of the Bangsamoro Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

Last week, representatives of key ministries in BARMM crafted the BAP as part of their preparations against the adverse impact of El Niño.

Participants acknowledged that the prolonged dry spells could affect agriculture, fisheries, water resources, and food security. They also acknowledged that security issues hounding their communities may affect the implementation of measures.

Due to these concerns, the Bangsamoro government will strengthen coordination with local government units, law enforcement agencies, and local peace and order councils before deployment of personnel, she said.

Mantawil recommended that lead agencies should conduct joint planning among humanitarian groups, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (MDRRMO), and security stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted delivery of essential services.

“We should also continuously assess security conditions and adjust implementation strategies without compromising assistance to affected communities,” she said.

MILF supporters urge gov't to continue implementing all peace accords

 

MILF supporters rally in Cotabato City. (Bangsamoro Multimedia Network)

By Keith Bacongco

Published Jun 27, 2026 05:17 pm

DAVAO CITY – Supporters of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) pressed the government to continue honoring and implementing the peace agreement amid the political tensions hounding the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

A group known as Recover BARMM Movement (RBM) has reiterated its call to the government to implement the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), and all signed peace agreements.

On Thursday, June 25, thousands of MILF supporters rallied in front of the Bangsamoro Government Center in Cotabato City and criticized the government for alleged intervention in the internal affairs of the BARMM government.

The MILF supporters, coming from different parts of Central Mindanao, occupied the entire stretch of the kilometer-long road leading to the BARMM compound.

Aside from Cotabato City, thousands of MILF supporters in Lanao del Sur gathered in Marawi City to join the call.

In a manifesto released to the media, RBM expressed concern on the political developments in the region, claiming that it does not only threaten the integrity of the peace process but could also undermine the spirit of the Bangsamoro peace agreements.

“The Bangsamoro peace process was built upon decades of sacrifices, countless lives lost, and the unwavering commitment of generations of Bangsamoro leaders and communities who struggled for justice, genuine autonomy, and self-determination,” said the MILF-affiliated group.

The group called for the reinstatement of MILF Chairman Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim as the interim chief minister of the BARMM.

On March 2025, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. appointed Abdulraof Macacua as the new interim chief minister, replacing Ebrahim who held the post since BARMM was formed in 2019, catching the Bangsamoro community by surprise.

Macacua was then chief of the staff of the MILF armed wing Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF).

However, due to some controversies involving the MILF leadership and Macacua, he was suspended as BIAF chief early this month.

For RBM, Ebrahim must be reinstated as he “remains the foremost symbol of the Bangsamoro peace process” in respect to his role and contributions to the Bangsamoro struggle.

The group also called on the government to restore the leadership of the MILF in the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.

The MILF, according to RBM, remains the principal signatory to the peace agreement.

“The Bangsamoro Transition Authority must reflect the spirit, mandate, and political reality envisioned in the peace process,” it added.

The MILF has questioned composition of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority as some of its members were not recommended by the MILF.

The MILF said that the Bangsamoro Organic Law states that 40 BTA members shall be recommended by the MILF. Thirty-nine others will be recommended by the government.

However, when the BTA’s term was extended after the 2025 elections, seven of those appointed by Marcos did not reportedly come from the MILF list.

RBM urged the government to appoint a chairperson in the peace implementing panel.

The government has yet to designate a new peace panel chairperson following the resignation of Cesar Yano last January.

RBM said that the absence of a peace panel chair slowed down the implementation of important commitments under the peace agreement.

The Bangsamoro people deserve action, not neglect, the group pointed out.

Gov't crafting recovery plan for quake-hit areas in Region 12

 

EVACUATION center in Barangay New Aklan, Glan, Sarangani. (DSWD-12) 

By Keith Bacongco

Published Jun 22, 2026 11:22 pm

DAVAO CITY – The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) is crafting the early recovery plan for earthquake-hit areas in Region 12 or the Soccsksargen area.

RDRRMC-12 Chairperson and Office of Civil Defense-12 (OCD-12) Regional Director Rodrigo Sosmeña said the agency is working with partner agencies and local government units to come up with rehabilitation and recovery plans two weeks since the magnitude-7.8 earthquake devastated several towns, mostly in Sarangani.

Sosmeña recently gathered concerned agencies and local officials to discuss the transition from response phase to early recovery efforts while relief operations continue in General Santos City, Sarangani, and some parts of South Cotabato.

The OCD-12 said the provincial government of Sarangani is now prioritizing the repair of damaged roads and bridges to hasten the delivery of relief aid and essential services to affected communities.

Dozens of barangays in Sarangani, particularly in Glan and Malapatan, were isolated for several days after many roads and bridges were damaged by the earthquake.

Some roads leading to hinterland areas were not accessible for a few days due to landslides, hampering the delivery of emergency food aid, prompting concerned agencies to ferry relief aid using helicopters and ships.

“All of us, local and national government agencies, should have a firm ground to base our medium-term and long-term plans. So, I’m requesting all members of the council to provide us with reliable and near accurate information in a timely fashion,” Sosmeña said.

Department of Social Welfare and Development-12 chief Loreto Cabaya Jr. said they will release additional cash assistance to affected communities next week in Sarangani and General Santos City.

“Each identified beneficiary, which was submitted by the local government unit, will receive a corresponding amount depending on their case whether slightly or severely affected," Cabaya said.

Severely affected beneficiaries will receive P10,350 while those slightly affected will receive P5,175 each, he added.

The assistance is part of the Emergency Cash Transfer, an unconditional financial assistance program designed to bridge the gap between immediate disaster relief and early recovery, Cabaya said.

The earthquake has affected 1.3 million individuals in Sarangani, South Cotabato, and General Santos City as of 5 p.m. June 19. Fifty-six people were killed, 18 still missing, and 1, 259 were injured by the tremor.

The OCD said 68,509 houses were damaged, over 9,000 of which were totally damaged. Initial damage to infrastructure was placed at P2.3 billion.

All isolated villages in Davao Occidental, Sarangani receive aid

 

RESIDENTS receive food boxes in Barangay E. Alegado, Glan, Sarangani on Saturday. (John Mark Cachuela)

By Keith Bacongco

Published Jun 13, 2026 02:47 pm

DAVAO CITY – Amid challenges to access in earthquake-hit areas, all isolated barangays in the provinces of Davao Occidental and Sarangani have already received relief aid, according to government agencies.

In the first few days after the magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck, relief aid and emergency response were delayed by massive landslides in several barangays in the hinterlands areas of Glan in Sarangani and Jose Abad Santos (JAS) in Davao Occidental.

Intermittent communications due to power outages contributed to the delayed updates on status of the affected areas, particularly in mountainous areas.

Almost a week since the disaster hit, the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Davao (Region 11) and Soccsksargen (Region 12) have carried out initial aid deliveries in cut-off areas.

Local government officials and government responders admitted that they faced difficulties in reaching isolated barangays in the first few days as many roads were damaged by landslides.

In the severely-devastated town of Glan, it took four days before the road was reopened to traffic as portions in Barangay Kapatan crumbled.

But DSWD-12 chief Loreto Cabaya Jr. said on Friday that affected barangays that share boundary with the town of JAS have already received relief aid.

Cabaya said they used helicopters from the Philippine Air Force and Philippine Coast Guard to deliver relief aid to isolated areas. Among the isolated barangays are Congan, Datal Bukay, E. Alegado, Laguimit, New Aklan, and Rio del Pilar.

A situation report from the Sarangani Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) showed that as of 6 p.m. on June 12, roads leading to at least eight barangays in Glan are still impassable.

Some of them are only accessible through rivers or longer routes passing through some barangays, the PDRRMO said.

The Office of Civil Defense in Region-12 reported that the earthquake has affected about 104, 000 individuals in 118 barangays in the region.

OCD-Davao Region chief Ednar Dayanghirang said that the isolated barangays of Molmol, Quiapo, and San Isidro in JAS have received food packs. Dayanghirang said relief aid was transported using helicopters.

The DSWD-Davao said about 3,400 families from these isolated barangays are expected to receive food packs. The Philippine Air Force has airlifted 2,072 food packs.

JAS Mayor Jason John Joyce admitted that access to the remote barangays is already difficult even before the earthquake struck. The earthquake-induced landslides made access even more difficult.

DSWD-Davao said that the earthquake has affected 61,797 individuals in the region. At least 50,000 of these are in Davao Occidental.

A total of 2,437 houses were damaged, 325 which totally. Many of these damaged houses are in JAS.

The death toll from the earthquake that struck Maasim, Sarangani on June 8 has climbed to 55 in 13 cities and municipalities in Southern Mindanao.

Affected local governments have been placed under a state of calamity as authorities grapple with widespread destruction, disrupted transport links, and thousands of displaced families.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported Friday, June 12, that 1,120 people were injured and 38 remained missing following the earthquake, which affected 392,806 individuals or 86,135 families in 352 barangays in the Zamboanga Peninsula (Region 9), Davao, Soccsksargen, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

4 dead as cargo truck crashes into gym in Davao City

 

By Keith Bacongco

FOUR persons were killed in a horrific accident in Barangay Marilog, Davao City on Saturday. (Iroy Wrecker the Rescuer)

DAVAO CITY – Four persons were killed after a cargo truck crashed into a gymnasium in Barangay Marilog here on Saturday morning, April 11.

The Davao City Police Office said a tire of the 10-wheel truck reportedly burst and the driver lost control of the vehicle. The truck hit the gymnasium where an activity was ongoing.

The driver, helper, and two bystanders died on the spot. Their identities are pending verification as of posting time.

The truck hit several parked vehicles before it turned upside down in front of the barangay hall.

Photos and videos online showed the partially damaged gymnasium on the Bukidnon-Davao Highway. The steep and winding sections of the road is an accident-prone area.

PEF appeals for donations to build cages for breeding eagles

By Keith Bacongco

Published Mar 3, 2026 10:20 pm

A Philippine Eagle at the Philippine Eagle Center in Davao City. (Keith Bacongco)

DAVAO CITY – The Philippine Eagle Foundation is appealing for donations to build 10 cages for breeding Philippine Eagle pairs at the National Bird Breeding Sanctuary in Toril District here.

PEF Director of Operations Dr. Jayson Ibañez issued the appeal on Tuesday, March 3, World Wildlife Day, as some of these cages will be occupied by rescued Philippine Eagles from the wild.

Ibañez said that most of the rescued eagles still have the potential for conservation breeding programs using cooperative artificial insemination techniques.

He added that the cages are needed for imprint eagles.

Each cage costs at least P200,000 to build. It includes CCTV cameras with 4K high definition for 24-hour monitoring.

Currently, there are two breeding chambers, three imprint cages, and holding cages for 12 eagles at the NBBS, said Ibañez.

Seven of these breeding birds at the NBBS were rescued from the wild due to human-inflicted injuries.

“Our goal is to transfer all breeding birds before the breeding season starts this September, but we need funds for additional imprint cages for a full transfer of breeding birds to NBBS," Ibañez said.

Among the Philippine Eagles that suffered severe injury was Kalatungan 2, whose left wing was amputated in 2024 after the bones on its wings were shattered by bullets.

Due to this disability, Kalatungan 2 was never released to the wild and now part of the breeding stock of the PEF.

Kalatungan 2, a male eagle about two-years-old, is one of the three rescued and imprinted eagles set to be transferred to NBBS once the cages are completed, said Ibañez.

Aside from 12 eagles at the NBBS, the PEF houses 18 eagles at the Philippine Eagle Center in Barangay Malagos here.

The PEF said about 400 eagles are still left in the wild.

They underscored the importance of boosting their conservation program to help in saving critically-endangered Philippine Eagles.

Ramadan in PH starts on Feb. 19

 MUSLIMS gather for a Quran reading session inside a mosque in Davao City. (Keith Bacongco)

By Keith Bacongcokeith

Published Feb 18, 2026 12:16 pm

DAVAO CITY – The month-long holding of Ramadan among Muslims in the country will begin on Thursday, Feb. 19, as the moon was not sighted on Tuesday evening, according to Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulrauf Guialani of the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta (BDI).

Guialani made the announcement at the Shariff Kabunsuan Cultural Complex (SKCC), Bangsamoro Government Center (BGC), in Cotabato City following the receipt of the results of the nationwide moon-sighting activities.

Aside from the Bangsamoro region, the BDI also deployed teams for the moonsighting activities in Iligan City in Lanao del Norte, Misamis Oriental province, and other parts of the country.

“With that premise and by the authority vested in me as Bangsamoro Mufti, I, Abdulrauf A. Guialani, hereby announce that the crescent moon was not sighted today. Therefore, Ramadan fasting 2026 will officially commence on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, In Shaa Allah,” the Grand Mufti announced.

For 30 days, Muslims in the country will observe a month-long fast, as aligned with Islamic teachings, principles, and practices.

“In Islam, sawm (fasting) is among the pillars of the religion that promotes discipline, strengthens spiritual connection with Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala), and helps in body detoxification for healthy living,” the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao said in a statement.

Bangsamoro interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua issued a memorandum on Wednesday, Feb. 18, implementing a new work schedule for Muslim officials and employees during Ramadan.

“The regular working hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. is hereby modified to 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., without a noon break, for Muslim officials and employees observing the holy month of Ramadan,” the memorandum said.

It added that there shall be no diminution on the 40-hour work week required under the Civil Service rules under these modified working hours.

After the Eid'l Fitr, Macacua said, all officials and employees shall automatically revert to regular working hours.

Conserve the PH Eagle: Integrating conservation lessons in schools

 

By Keith Bacongco

Published Jan 31, 2026 05:10 pm

DAVAO CITY – The Philippine Eagle is among the endangered species in the country.

Efforts are being made to conserve the national bird and the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) believes that the youth could help in the effort to save it.

The PEF said the Sarangani Schools Division of the Department of Education is pilot testing the integration of the Philippine Eagle conservation lessons in select schools in the province.

Dr. Jayson Ibañez, director of operations of the Philippine Eagle Foundation, said the Eskwelahan para sa Kinaiyahan (EPK) program, aims to teach students about caring for nature by adding Philippine Eagle conservation lessons into regular school subjects under the Matatag curriculum.

The program is now in its second phase and it is being pilot tested in upland elementary schools in the town of Alabel.

“The testing involved a few teachers from pilot elementary schools in the uplands of Sarangani using the lesson plans with kids and testing its effectiveness,” Ibañez said.

Ibañez said the EPK is integrated in the lesson plans of Grades 1, 4 and 7 in Araling Panlipunan, Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC), Makabansa, Music Arts Physical Education and Health (MAPEH), and Science.

To further improve its implementation, Ibañez said at least 32 teachers from Sarangani gathered last Dec. 1 to 3 at the Philippine Eagle Center in Barangay Malagos here to look into the results of the testing and revise or improve the lesson plans if needed.

The gathering, he added, is under the Phase 2 of the EPK program, which focuses on refining the lessons as well as in preparing them for expansion to other schools in Sarangani province.

Dr. Letecia Afuang, lead facilitator and resource person of the workshop, underscored the value of instilling conservation values among the young generation.

Afuang, a seasoned wildlife conservationist, said that she is also sharing some of their experiences in integrating the Tamaraw conservation program in the lessons in Mindoro. She said that she is helping teachers finalize the lesson content as well as improve teaching materials.

Ibañez emphasized that the second phase of the program will also strengthen the teachers’ capacity and ensure that conservation education, especially the protection of the Philippine Eagle, is clearly and effectively taught to young learners.

“The EPK Program represents the Foundation’s developing strategy to influence mindsets and foster lifestyles that are more respectful of nature and supportive of Philippine Eagle conservation,” he said.

Should the EPK be successful in Sarangani, the PEF is looking to expand the EPK in different regions where the eagles are found.

The PEF, he added, is hoping to roll out the program across the country where eagles are found, and build a network of young citizens who value the eagle as a fellow Filipino who deserves to live decently and safe from harm.

However, Ibanez admitted that this program requires a lot of resources, especially in gathering the teachers and producing the learning materials.

Ibañez is appealing for support from the private sector to help integrate Philippine eagle and biodiversity conservation lessons into the regular Matatag curriculum.

Through the integration, it could help empower students to understand and protect the natural heritage that sustains their communities.

“Your support strengthens local pride, builds science-based environmental values, and nurtures a generation capable of safeguarding our forests and wildlife. By investing in conservation education today, you help secure a healthier, more resilient future for both people and the Philippine Eagle,” Ibañez emphasized.

The integration of Philippine Eagle lessons could help students learn more about the national bird.

Last year, a wild and untagged pair of Philippine Eagles was spotted somewhere in the hinterlands of Bukidnon province. The PEF said they were the first confirmed sighting in nearly two decades. For the eagles’ safety, it did not disclose their exact location.

“This remarkable rediscovery happened within the Buhita (Bukidnon Higaonon Tribal Association) ancestral domain,” the PEF said.

The PEF added that they were soaring mutually, which is an indication of a graceful courtship ritual where two lifelong partners glide side by side. “Together, they mark their territory while reaffirming their bond. It’s a beautiful and powerful dance in the sky, signaling that a new nesting season may be on the horizon.”

Ibañez said that the last time a pair of eagles and their eaglet were validated by PEF and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) within the Buhita ancestral domain was in 1996.

“And succeeding annual checks detected only single birds, until monitoring efforts stopped because of security and personnel safety issues,” Ibañez said.

He said that the sighting was due to the expedition of a composite team of PEF, DENR, and local volunteers. The seasoned PEF conservationist said that the expedition was launched following the increased reports of eagle sightings.

“The old nest used in 1996 was still standing but appeared abandoned. The team did daily observations until they detected the eagle pair in an elegant aerial courtship display within the last week of the expedition.”

This most recent confirmed sighting brings the number of pairs to at least 21 in Bukidnon, which is the home to the highest number of eagle pairs in the country, Ibañez said.

Class, work suspensions expand in Central Mindanao following earthquakes

 DISPLACED residents in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat receive food aid from the government. (DSWD-12)

By Keith Bacongco

Published Jan 29, 2026 04:55 pm

DAVAO CITY – As earthquakes continue to rock many parts of Central Mindanao, class and work suspensions have expanded to several municipalities and provinces outside of Sultan Kudarat province which has been experiencing a swarm of earthquakes totaling 2,264 as of 7 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 29.

Sultan Kudarat Gov. Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu ordered the suspension of classes and work in government offices in the coastal towns of Kalamansig, Lebak, and Palimbang following the magnitude-5.7 tremor that hit the province before dawn on Thursday.

Mangudadatu expanded the suspension of classes and work in the entire province following a magnitude-5.9 earthquake with epicenter 40 kilometers southwest of Kalamansig at 2:46 p.m. Wednesday and a shallow depth of four kilometers

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said both earthquakes were tectonic in origin.

“The provincial government assures the public that the situation is being closely monitored and managed with the highest level of readiness. All concerned offices are on heightened alert to safeguard the safety and welfare of our communities,” the governor said in a statement.

Kalamansig Mayor Ronan Eugene Garcia has ordered the preemptive evacuation of all residents in 10 coastal barangays of the municipality, citing the possible occurrence of a tsunami.

“These offshore seismic activities may result in strong ground shaking, aftershocks, sea disturbances, and possible tsunami events that may endanger lives, livelihoods, and properties,” he said in an executive order issued late Wednesday afternoon.

Following the earthquake on Wednesday, some towns in the neighboring provinces of Cotabato, South Cotabato, and Maguindanao del Sur that shares a boundary with Sultan Kudarat cancelled classes due to possible tsunami.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has not issued any advisory indicating an imminent tsunami but thousands of residents in most coastal barangays have evacuated to higher grounds following the Wednesday earthquake.

“Our latest advisory reminded the public to duck, cover, and hold, and, in addition, be mindful of the damages to structures, in case of a strong earthquake. Residents of coastal communities should be watchful of the natural signs of a local tsunami, and evacuate if any one of these signs is experienced,” Phivolcs said in a media advisory.

Phivolcs said that it is well within the mandate or discretion of local government units to decide on matters related to response actions, such as evacuation, based on the local assessment and their preparedness protocol.

As of 7 a.m. Thursday, Phivolcs recorded 2,264 earthquakes off Kalamansig since Jan. 19. It added that 677 of them were plotted by monitoring stations, of which 84 were felt. Recorded magnitude ranges from 1.3 to 5.9.

In neighboring South Cotabato, the local government units of Koronadal City and the municipalities of Surallah, Polomolok, Norala, Banga, Tboli, and Lake Sebu and General Santos City have suspended face-to-face classes as a precautionary measure against possible hazards due to the quakes also felt in the province.

Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua suspended work in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) agencies located in Cotabato City. Macacua, however, said work will continue for those involved in rescue, emergency, and health services, among other frontline offices.

Some of these class and work suspensions are until Saturday, Jan. 31.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Region 12 Disaster Response Management Division has activated its quick response teams, mobilizing personnel and resources to ensure the delivery of assistance to affected communities in the municipality of Kalamansig and neighboring towns.

DSWD-12 chief Loreto Cabaya Jr. said that as of Jan. 28, the earthquake has affected over 50,000 individuals in the towns of Kalamansig, Lebak, and Palimbang.

Cabaya said they have dispatched food aid for affected families, particularly those who are still in evacuation centers. He added further validation of affected communities is still ongoing. The DSWD has put up modular tents for affected families in evacuation centers in Kalamansig.

Hundreds flee as 5.7-quake rocks Sultan Kudarat

 

By Keith Bacongco

Published Jan 28, 2026 01:09 pm

DISPLACED residents from Barangay Tibpuan, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat. (PCG Sultan Kudarat)

DAVAO CITY – Hundreds of families living along the coastline of Sultan Kudarat have initiated a preemptive evacuation due to fear of tsunami following the magnitude-5.7 earthquake that jolted the province at 1:05 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28.

In a report from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the earthquake’s epicenter was 55 kilometers southwest of Kalamansig town with a depth of 19 kilometers.

Phivolcs has not released a tsunami threat advisory following the tremor.

But as aftershocks are expected, Gov. Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu has ordered the suspension of work and classes until further notice.

“Residents of both municipalities are advised to remain alert, avoid staying in damaged or unstable structures, and prepare for possible aftershocks,” Mangudadatu said.

The governor said work suspension is only applicable for coastal towns of Kalamansig, Lebak and Palimbang.

Mangudadatu said that these measures were adopted to minimize exposure to risk while ensuring that appropriate response actions are in place during the period of continuing seismic activity.

He advised his constituents to exercise caution, stay indoors when possible, and avoid coastal and structurally vulnerable areas.

The governor encouraged residents to continuously monitor official announcements for updates and further instructions.

Mangudadatu said that fishing activities in coastal areas in the province are temporarily prohibited following the series of seismic activities.

The earthquake was felt at Intensity 4 in Palimbang and Lebak; Intensity 3 in Esperanza in Sultan Kudarat and Norala in South Cotabato; and Intensity 2 in M'lang and Pikit in Cotabato, Maitum and Malungon in Sarangani, and Tantangan, Banga, Tupi, Surallah, Tampakan, Santo Nino, and Koronadal City in South Cotabato.

It was felt at Intensity 1 in Kadingilan, Bukidnon; Maasim and Alabel, Sarangani; Zamboanga City in Zamboanga del Sur; and Santa Maria in Davao Occidental.

After the main shock at 1:05 a.m., dozens of aftershocks have been recorded, ranging from magnitudes 1.1 to 5.2.

Last week, classes and work were suspended in the province due to a magnitude-5.2 earthquake on Jan. 20 with an epicenter 43 kilometers southwest of Kalamansig.

The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office in the towns of Kalamansig, Lebak, and Palimbang have confirmed that some residents in coastal barangays have initiated preemptive evacuations due to fear of tsunami.

A personnel of the MDRRMO in Kalamansig said that the tremor triggered a preemptive evacuation in 10 coastal barangays.

“Nobody ordered them to evacuate,there was no tsunami advisory but maybe they were just scared that a stronger earthquake might come and might trigger a tsunami,” the MDRRMO personnel said.

Kalamansig Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office head Roshelo Caluyo said that about 3,000 to 4,000 families have evacuated to safer grounds.

Caluyo added that it was just an approximate figure as validation is still ongoing as of this posting.

“This is just an approximate figure because in one coastal barangay alone, more than 600 families have evacuated. And we also have some bigger barangays including the town proper,” he said.

In Lebak, an MDRRMO personnel said that she could not provide the number of families that initiated a preemptive evacuation as validation is still ongoing.

She added that most of these families were from six coastal towns of municipality.

But the Philippine Coast Guard Station Sultan Kudarat reported that about 350 families from the coastal barangay of Tibpuan have temporarily sought shelter in designated evacuation centers in Barangays Pasandalan and Poloy-Poloy in Lebak.

In Palimbang, MDRRMO chief Engr. Yasser Tuanadatu said that only 90 families from Barangay Kiponget have initiated a preemptive evacuation.

Tuandatu said that residents initiated the preemptive evacuation even with the tsunami threat advisory.

“Most of the residents in Kiponget have experienced the tsunami in the 1976 earthquake,” he added, referring to the Moro Gulf earthquake and tsunami on Aug. 17, 1976.

Phivolcs records showed that the earthquake measured magnitude-eight with a depth of 20 kilometers.

The powerful tremor triggered a destructive tsunami that left an estimated 5,000 to 8,000 fatalities.

Tuanadatu said that the local government has suspended classes as a precautionary measure.

“We have two-story classroom buildings here. And if there will be aftershocks, it might cause panic and stampede,” he said.

Since Jan. 19, the Phivolcs has recorded a total of 765 swarm earthquakes around Kalamansig.

More than with magnitudes ranging from 1.4 to 5.2were plotted or located.

But only 30 were felt, according to Phivolcs.

The swarm was generated by the Cotabato Trench, noting that such activity reflects the gradual release of built-up stress in a tectonically active area, the Phivolcs said.

Search for missing vessel in Davao expands

By Keith Bacongco

Published Jan 20, 2026 04:26 pm    

A CREW of missing vessel MBCA Amerejas was rescued Tuesday.

DAVAO CITY – Search and rescue operations for the 14 persons onboard a missing vessel has expanded to the vicinity of Sarangani Islands in Davao Occidental, said Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Capt. Noemi Cayabyab Tuesday.

Cayabyab said a multi-agency air and surface search has been deployed to the coast of Sarangani Island (popularly known as Balut Island) following the rescue of one of the crew members around 11 a.m. Tuesday.

Sarangani Island is about 110 nautical miles (about 203 kilometers) south of this city.

The Philippine Coast Guard District-Southeastern Mindanao identified the rescued individual as Christopher Bulig, a crew member of the missing MBCA Amejara.

He was recovered between the vicinity waters of Sarangani Island and Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental, according to the PCG.

Police Patrolman Renz Dominic Prado of the Philippine National Police-Regional Maritime Unit (PNP-RMU) in Davao region said that Bulig was found drifting about 17 nautical miles or 31 kilometers off the coast of Sarangani Island.

Prado said that initial reports from their unit assigned to the island bared that Bulig was immediately taken to the hospital on the island.

He added that the rescued crew member confirmed that MBCA Amejara capsized due to strong waves.

An initial report showed that Bulig was separated from his group due to strong currents and waves, Prado said.

"According to our unit in Balut Island, they were not able to extract more information from Bulig yet because cannot speak very well. Maybe because he's too exhausted," Prado explained over the phone.

Aside from Saragani Island, other teams are also scouring the coastal areas of Davao Occidental and Davao Oriental.

Cayabyab explained that they are considering all the factors such as water current and wind that may affect the direction of the missing vessel and passengers.

According to reports, the recreational vessel, which was carrying angler fishing enthusiasts, left this city on Jan. 17.

Cayabyab said that they are investigating reports that the boat sailed without a clearance from the PCG.

It was expected to arrive at Gov. Generoso town, Davao Occidental on Monday.

According to PCG, the vessel reportedly capsized about 22 nautical miles or about 40 kilometers east of the shoreline of Davao Occidental.

Aside from PCG, the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Navy, PNP-RMU, and local government units have dispatched assets to join the SAR mission.

Faithful in Davao City turn out to celebrate Feast of Child Jesus

 By Keith Bacongco

Published Jan 15, 2026 06:05 pm

DAVAO CITY – Devotees in different parts of this city gathered in chapels to celebrate the feast of Senor Santo Niño on Thursday, Jan. 15.

The biggest gathering of the annual religious festivity here was at the Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague in Shrine Hills in Matina.

Over 1,000 devotees coming from different parts of the city and nearby places gathered at the shrine since dawn Thursday.

Devotees have been offering candles and flowers since Wednesday at the wooden replica of the famous Infant Jesus of Prague in Czech Republic. It was enthroned in its marble chapel on Jan. 15, 1968.

In his homily, Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles thanked the faithful for coming to celebrate the feast of Santo Niño.

"Maybe most of you are here today again because you are giving glory to God. And maybe you are back here again today because maybe, somehow, you received a grace from God, not just money, business, or property but relief in your hearts," Valles said during a Mass at the shrine's chapel.

He urged the faithful to share the stories of grace to their families and even to their neighbors. "We cannot explain but thank you for your devotion."

Since the shrine opened early Thursday morning, hundreds of devotees have queued before the Santo Niño to offer prayers.

Among the devotees, a couple in their mid-40s, carrying their sickly son who was dressed like the Santo Niño, joined the queue and offered prayer for his healing.

Across the city, devotees also celebrated the feast in their chapels and communities.

One of the known homes of Santo Niño devotees is the coastal Barangay 21-C or Piapi.

Established in 1947, the chapel is the first Santo Niño church in the city which was said to be founded by settlers from the Visayas, particularly from the provinces of Cebu and Leyte.

Among the devotees in the barangay is 62-year-old Albino Macasero who had his Santo Niño image blessed by the priest after the mass on Thursday.

Macasero said that his Santo Niño statue survived a fire several years ago. "This Santo Niño has been with me for over a decade already. I have inherited the tradition of celebrating the feast from our elders who hailed from Cebu."

He recalled that they have been celebrating the feast every year since he was a kid.

Youth volunteers are organizing parlor games and other activities during the festivity.

Many families are also preparing food and drinks for guests who would come to the community to celebrate the festivity.

Catholic churches across the country celebrate the feast of Senor Santo Niño, which is one of the most widely celebrated religious festivities in the country, every Jan. 15.

PEF tightens biosecurity after bird flu outbreak in Cotabato

 

By Keith Bacongco

Published Nov 4, 2025 02:22 pm  
 DAVAO CITY – The Philippine Eagle Foundation has stepped up its biosecurity measures at the Philippine Eagle Center here following the reported outbreak of avian influenza or bird flu in M’lang, Cotabato province two weeks ago.

The PEF, in a public advisory through its Facebook page, advised guests to follow strict biosecurity measures when visiting the PEC, which hosts at least 30 critically-endangered Philippine Eagles and other animal species.

The PEF reminded guests at the PEC to observe measures such as stepping into the foot bath upon entry, sanitizing hands before and after visit, and follow designated visitor pathways.

It emphasized that guests should avoid touching or feeding the animals. “The safety of our national bird is in your hands,” the PEF said.

PEF added that these measures aim to minimize the risk of virus entry and spread.

It added that the heightened measures also aim to ensure the health and welfare of animals and protect the overall integrity of the conservation program.

Other measure that will be implemented at the PEC is the removal of all display birds.

All birds will be placed in cages to limit their direct contact with visitors and other animals, PEF added.

“This measure is crucial in controlling movement and reducing the risk of avian influenza exposure within the facility. By keeping the birds in cages, cleaning and disinfection can be carried out more easily and consistently, ensuring that the environment remains sanitary and controlled.”

About 1,000 ducks were depopulated in Barangay New Antique in M’lang last month. The barangay is approximately 154 kilometers from PEC by land and about 55 kilometers by air.

Dr. Jayson Ibañez, PEF director of operations, said that like many viruses, bird flu can strike without warning. “Much like a thief in the night,” Ibañez emphasized.

Thus, the best defense is to be prepared, he added. “That’s why we’ve raised our biosecurity alert level and activated preventive measures to protect our animals and facilities.”

The PEF, Ibañez said, is asking for the public’s understanding and cooperation as these steps are part of efforts to keep the Philippine Eagle and other wildlife safe.

He said that those who are planning to visit the PEC should check the heightened biosecurity guidelines posted on PEF’s official page: https://www.facebook.com/phileaglefdn.

MinDA pushes accelerated Mindanao dev't

 MAGNO (Keith Bacongco)

By Keith Bacongco

Published Oct 2, 2025 04:36 pm

DAVAO CITY – As many provinces in Mindanao have been declared insurgency free, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso Magno believes that the time is ripe now for the region to accelerate development efforts amid the gains in the peace process.

Speaking before the delegates of the Mindanao Development Forum 2025 here, Magno emphasized that Mindanao is no longer a land of promise but a land of fulfilled promises.

He added that it’s time now for all stakeholders in the region to harmonize all efforts toward inclusive and sustainable growth.

“Peace comes first before development. With most of the provinces in Mindanao now declared insurgency-free, it is time to push forward with growth and transformation. We are no longer a land of promise, but a land of fulfilled promises,” Magno said during the two-day event that culminated on Thursday, Oct. 2.

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua also echoed Magno’s statement saying that Mindanao is changing.

“In 2025, we are no longer viewed as a conflict zone or a forgotten frontier. We are a growth engine in motion. Major infrastructure corridors are expanding. Inter-island connectivity is being realized. Agriculture and industry are being revitalized,” Macacua said in his speech before the delegates at Dusit Thani Residences here.

Peace and development, he added, are no longer opposites. “They are interdependent pillars of our shared vision for a better future.”

Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr. stressed that peace and development are inseparable.

The country’s peace agenda is a cornerstone of its development strategy, said Galvez. “Peace and development are interconnected and mutually reinforcing. We cannot achieve inclusive growth without first addressing conflict, marginalization, and injustice. Peace and development must always move together,” Galvez said.

Over the years, he added, convergence programs have transformed conflict-affected areas through infrastructure, livelihood support, education, health, and social services.

These interventions did not only address the roots of conflict but also unlock the economic potential of communities, Galvez said.

Cotabato province Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza assured that the provincial government will work closely with MinDA as it carries out programs for Mindanao.

Mendoza suggested that the Regional Development Councils (RDC) should actively take part in MinDA initiatives to ensure connectivity, sustainability, and continuity of every program.

“Together, we can harmonize our efforts and maximize resources to achieve inclusive and lasting development for Mindanao,” she added.

European Union Ambassador to the Philippines Massimo Santoro affirmed EU’s commitment to Mindanao, particularly the Bangsamoro peace process and the island’s long-term development.

“When it comes to the European Union support, it is articulated in three main lines of action,” Santoro said.

“First, our support to the peace process in full coordination with the central government and local authorities, these are the ingredients for peace. Next, normalization, which means supporting former combatants by introducing them to new economic and business opportunities to abandon their past ways.”

Lastly, he said, development, where “we translate normalization into progressive transformation, so BARMM continuously benefits from our assistance.”

According to MinDA, the EU recently committed 27 million euros to the Partnerships for Peace and Development in Mindanao Programme with MinDA, OPAPRU, and BARMM to strengthen resilience, sustain peace gains, and address conflict’s root causes.

This year's Mindanao Development Forum convened thought leaders, development partners, and changemakers to exchange insights and forge solutions for a stronger, more inclusive Mindanao.

The event was in partnership with the EU and the government of Germany, with support from GIZ Philippines, ADB Philippines, World Bank Philippines, and United Nations-Philippines.

Davao City to send rescue teams to quake-hit Cebu

 

By Keith Bacongco

DAVAO CITY – The city government is preparing teams to assist in the rescue efforts in the earthquake-affected areas of northern Cebu province.

In a statement, the City Information Office (CIO) said the city government is coordinating with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and Cebu Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) to determine the needs in disaster-hit areas.

“Yes, we will send help to Cebu,” the CIO said. “While ground assessments are ongoing, Davao City 911 Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams, along with our medical teams and psychosocial workers, are now ready to be deployed. We are also preparing food items for the affected areas,” it added.

City emergency and disaster response units are on standby for deployment as soon as coordination with Cebu authorities is completed, the CIO added.

The city government has been sending different forms of assistance to disaster-hit areas in different parts of the country.

The city’s 911 USAR is equipped with among the most advanced emergency response equipment in the country.

Meanwhile, Sultan Kudarat province Gov. Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu has extended his solidarity with people of Cebu following the magnitude-6.9 earthquake.

“We especially convey our solidarity with Gov. Pam Baricuatro as she leads her people through this time of great sorrow and challenge. We recognize the immense burden placed upon Cebu’s communities and leadership, yet we believe that with unity, courage, and faith, Cebu will rise again,” Mangudadatu said.

He added that the people of Sultan Kudarat grieve with the families who have lost loved ones, including those who were injured and displaced. “Please remember that Sultan Kudarat is with you in prayers, in spirit, and in support.”

Wild pair of Philippine Eagles spotted in Bukidnon

 

DAVAO CITY – A wild and untagged pair of Philippine Eagles was spotted somewhere in the hinterlands of Bukidnon province.

By Keith Bacongco

Published Aug 16, 2025 11:32 pm

The Philippine Eagle Foundation said they were the first confirmed sighting in nearly two decades.

The pair was sighted last week but the PEF did not disclose their exact location for their safety.

“This remarkable rediscovery happened within the Buhita (Bukidnon Higaonon Tribal Association) ancestral domain,” the PEF said.

The PEF added that they were soaring mutually, which is an indication of a graceful courtship ritual where two lifelong partners glide side by side. “Together, they mark their territory while reaffirming their bond. It’s a beautiful and powerful dance in the sky, signaling that a new nesting season may be on the horizon.”

PEF Director for Operations Dr. Jayson Ibañez said that the last time a pair of eagles and their eaglet were validated by PEF and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) within the Buhita ancestral domain was in 1996.

“And succeeding annual checks detected only single birds, until monitoring efforts stopped because of security and personnel safety issues,” Ibañez said.

He said that the sighting was due to the month-long expedition of a composite team of PEF, DENR, and local volunteers.

The seasoned PEF conservationist said that the expedition was launched following the increased reports of eagle sightings.

“The old nest used in 1996 was still standing but appeared abandoned. The team did daily observations until they detected the eagle pair in an elegant aerial courtship display within the last week of the expedition.”

This most recent confirmed sighting brings the number of pairs to at least 21 in Bukidnon, which is the home to the highest number of eagle pairs in the country, Ibañez said.

He added that the provincial government has passed an ordinance declaring the Philippine Eagle as their flagship species and allotting funding for their conservation.

The province is one of the focused areas of the PEF in their conservation program.

Ibañez attributed the success of the expedition to the combination of indigenous knowledge and the customary rules of Buhita members.

He acknowledged the efforts of the Buhita ancestral domain leaders and elders to keep their forests intact that have benefited wildlife and people.

“We’ve always suspected that a pair may still thrive in the area because it remained intact across the years. The results of the expedition have once and for all validated that suspicion,” Ibañez said.

According to the PEF, a pair of Philippine Eagle needs about 4,000 to 11,000 hectares of forest land to thrive in the wild, depending on the number of prey items in the area.

The PEF credited the rediscovery of the critically-endangered bird to the Buhita trail masters, forest guards, PEF biologists and monitoring staff, and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)-Valencia team.

“This is a good sign that despite everything, our Philippine Eagles are finding ways to survive in the wild. Let’s make sure to do our part in helping them thrive,” the PEF said.

Davao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat coffees to represent PH in Southeast Asia competition

 

DAVAO CITY – Coffees from Davao del Sur and Sultan Kudarat provinces are set to represent the country in the Southeast Asia Green Coffee Competition (SEAGCC) in Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat in October.

By Keith Bacongco

Published Aug 4, 2025 03:57 pm

In the Arabica category, eight of the top 10 winners were from coffees grown in Bansalan town in Davao del Sur,  five of which were from Sitio Balutakay, a popular source of top quality Arabica coffee that sits on the slopes of Mount Apo.

Cherry Gil Cabanday topped the Arabica category in the recent national selection for SEAGCC held in this city.

Cabanday, who grows coffee in Purok Pluto in Sitio Balutakay, outshined 51 other entries coming from different parts of the country.

Fellow coffee farmer from Bansalan, Janet Escalera, earned the second spot followed by Finca de Garces of Pangantucan, Bukidnon.

Josephine Libres, who is also from Sitio Balutakay, earned the fourth spot followed by Salome Milagrosa (Barangay Alegre in Bansalan), Cyril Jerome Almanzor (Amai Manabilang, Lanao del Sur), Marcia Elumirag (Barangay Alegre), Jenny Morales (Sitio Balutakay), John Lawrence dela Cerna (Sitio Balutakay), and Lowell Padrones (Sitio Balutakay).

In the Robusta category, coffees from Sultan Kudarat province captured seven of the Top 10 spots.

The Top 5 winners under the Robusta category, who all hail from Sen. Ninoy Aquino town, are Roan Basco, Idelberto Deramos, Reyjohn Basco, Denz Bert Deramos, and Orlando Bayudan.

They are followed by Ricky Sagayno (Lupon, Davao Oriental), Catherine Joy Alipit (La Trinidad, Benguet), Junerd Ambay (Sen. Ninoy Aquino), Elmer Lucariza (Maragusan, Davao de Oro), and Elmor Jay Seguma (Lebak, Sultan Kudarat).

Twelve farmers participated in the Robusta category.

In a statement, Specialty Coffee Coffee Depot said that the coffees were evaluated by licensed Arabica and Robusta Q Graders from various regions in the country.

The event was supported by the Filipino Coffee Institute, Mindanao Development Authority, European Union, German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through the Deutsche Geselleschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarebeit (GIZ), and Department of Agriculture-11 High Value Crops Division.

Angelbert Cortes of Cavite State University emerged as the lone winner under the Excelsa Category.

Brando Mediano, chairman of the Specialty Coffee Marketing Cooperative, explained that coffee from Mount Apo dominated the Arabica category because farmers mainly grow Arabica.

Sultan Kudarat topped the Robusta category because the hinterland areas of the province is a known source, Mediano added.

He said that Philippine coffees that joined the competition were not just delicious, but were thoughtfully grown, carefully processed, and full of character.

“Many stood out for their complexity, harmony, and individuality. It was a challenge to cup because of the high level of quality across the board,” said Mediano, who also served as one of the competition’s evaluators.

For coffees grown in the slopes of Mount Apo, he attributed the distinct taste to different factors that contributed to its quality.

Mediano said that coffees grown in Mount Apo are shaped by the terroir of volcanic soils, shifting mountain weather, and the deep roots of tradition.

“But what truly sets it apart are the people. The experienced farmers continue to apply proven, tested methods that have stood the test of time, while the younger generation brings a spirit of innovation, curiosity, and openness to the future,” he said.

Mediano lauded the dedication of farmers for producing world-class coffee.

For him, it is not just a competition of flavor but also a celebration of culture, effort, and story.

“In a sense, everyone who brought coffee to the table is already a winner, because they are contributing to something much bigger than themselves.”

Lawyer seeks dismissal of charges over mining protest

 

 

By Keith Bacongco

Published Jul 1, 2025 10:24 pm

DAVAO CITY – The counsel of a multisectoral group in Mati City, Davao Oriental is seeking to dismiss the charges against three of its members who were arrested over the weekend amid the protest against a large-scale mining operation in Barangay Macambol last week.

Lawyer Glocelito Jayma told Manila Bulletin that he will file a motion to quash the charge of disobedience to persons in authority as his clients were illegally arrested.

Jayma said that policemen and Barangay Macambol officials led by chairman Ceferino Salazar forcefully entered a private property without any court order or any warrant.

On June 28, barangay officials along with the police dismantled the barricade on the access road to the mine site that was put up by residents protesting the mining operations of Hallmark Mining Corp. in Sitio Magum.

Three protesters were arrested after the standoff – landowner Claridel Cellona, Bryan Codilla, and Donars Narisma.

The lawyer added that even as Cellona showed a copy of the land title, police officers and barangay officials forcibly entered the property and dismantled the barricade.

“They have not shown a document or paper that would show Cellona's roadway in their land is a barangay road. It was never donated and there was no turn over to the barangay. Also under Republic Act 4136, a roadway of a private person is not a highway. So, Salazar and the police practically committed trespassing, an illegal act,” Jayma said.

The private property in the coastal barangay is located on the foothills of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization-declared heritage site of Mount Hamigutan Range and Wildlife Sanctuary.

Macambol is a known fishing barangay, where many of residents depend on nearby Pujada Bay for living.

Jayma said that the conduct of policemen in Cellona's property are all illegal and an abuse of authority. “There is no lawful performance of duty, hence, there is no basis for disobedience to persons in authority.”

Codilla, chairman of the multi-sectoral group Davao Oriental Pujada Landscape Eco Tourism Association, Farmer, Fisherfolk, Family, and Friends (DAPUPLETA F4), said their protest stemmed from the alleged inaction of government agencies and mining firm on their complaint on damages to their livelihood due to an alleged landslide in the mine site.

According to the group, heavy rains in January 2024 reportedly triggered landslides in the mine site and resulted in a mudflow towards the fishing grounds in the adjacent Pujada Bay.

Fisherman Ernesto Bonotan said that their catch has dwindled since the mining operations began as the coastline would turn murky due to mudslides allegedly from the mine site.

Bonotan said that many of their fish traps, locally known as bobo, have been destroyed by the mud.

He appealed to the mining company to address their concerns.

Codilla also bared that they have been requesting the mining firm to rehabilitate the road since it was damaged by their heavy equipment.

But their request for road repair, which will cover a little less than two kilometers, had not been granted until today, he said.

For two days, protesters barred vehicles owned by the mining firm from passing the only access road to the mine site in Sitio Salingcomot, also part of Barangay Macambol.

The Manila Bulletin sought a comment from Dr. Arvin Carlom, the mining firm’s community relations manager, on the complaint. Hallmark Mining Co. has yet to issue a statement as of posting time.

The Police Regional Office-11 said that they are still waiting an update from the Davao Oriental Provincial Police Office.

Jayma said that protesters did not entirely close the private road as they still allowed other motorists to pass through except for the vehicles of the mining firm.

”It was well within the private owner to regulate their private property as an exercise of ownership. So, it cannot be discounted that Salazar and the police were not actually implementing the DILG memorandum to clear roads, but to serve the interest of Hallmark mining,” he said.

Codilla said that they are still open for dialogue with the mining firm to resolve the issues they have raised.

“We are not against or in favor of the mining operations. All we want is for the mining company to talk to us and resolve the issues we have been raising,” he added.

Austral-Asia Link Mining Corp. (AALMC) and Hallmark Mining Corp. hold Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) permit under the management of Asiaticus Management Corp. (AMCOR).

Each MPSA covers 5,000 hectares of mine site. These mining tenements straddle across the towns of Gov. Generoso, San Isidro, and City of Mati.

The mine site sits on the periphery of the protected area of the Mount Hamigutan Range and Wildlife Sanctuary.

Several environmental groups have expressed concerns over the nickel mining project as it could affect the rich biodiversity area of the mountain range, home to many endemic species as well the critically-endangered Philippine Eagle.