During a press briefing held at the Police Regional Office (PRO-6) headquarters, Police Lieutenant Colonel German Magbanua III, PCPS head, emphasized that local police forces are actively coordinating with community leaders to prevent future violence, particularly in far-flung barangays.

“We can assure the people of Passi City that we are doing everything to maintain peace and order,” he said

“We have already talked with the ABC President of the Liga ng mga Barangay to tighten our campaign against loose firearms and strengthen the utilization of our barangay force multipliers,” the city’s top cop continued.

Magbanua said efforts to recover unregistered and loose firearms will be doubled considering that the city has several distant and remote barangays.

He also vowed to the families of victims in the incidents that they would not rest until justice is served.

Brutal killing of couple in Salngan

Two elderlies were found dead outside their home in Barangay Salngan on the morning of July 5.

The victims were identified as alias “Rufo”, an 80-year-old farmer, and his wife, “Cecil.”

Rufo sustained gunshot wounds to his back and the right side of his head, while Cecil suffered severe head injuries and a gunshot wound to her leg.

The two were rushed to the Don Valerio Palmares Sr. Memorial District Hospital but were declared dead on arrival.

Investigators have ruled out robbery, as no belongings were reported missing, and dismissed “tripping” due to the remote and isolated location of the couple’s home.

The police are currently focusing on land disputes and family feuds as the primary motives.

While three Persons of Interest (POIs) have already been identified and are currently under close police surveillance and background checks, Magbanua chose to withhold their identities to avoid jeopardizing the ongoing case build-up.

He also mentioned that they have a witness who “holds vital information” but is currently hesitant to disclose full details.

“We are completing the evidence. We want to see to it that we file cases against the exact and right individuals,” Magbanua added.

Midnight shooting in Cabunga

Another shooting occurred on June 9, leaving 60-year-old resident alias “Jerry” wounded.

Jerry of Barangay Cabunga sustained gunshot wounds to his stomach, and doctors later extracted five 12-gauge shotgun pellets from his body.

Police investigations point to a personal grudge as the motive, with one person of interest (POI) currently being tracked.

The POI is a resident of the same village who works in Pavia but stays in Santa Barbara.

Unified security drive

Despite these “isolated” violent incidents, Magbanua reiterated that the PCPS is “highly capable of securing the city.”

By mobilizing the barangay peacekeeping networks and intensifying intelligence-driven checkpoints, the local police force aims to clamp down on the movement of illegal firearms and reassure residents that their communities remain safe.IMT

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Dave Loui A. Gumarang, a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering graduate from ISAT U’s College of Engineering and Architecture, was selected from a competitive pool of over 300 students and young professionals worldwide.

Only 40 candidates made the final cut after a rigorous review and ranking process based on the programme’s official selection criteria.

The award recognizes outstanding contributions to the space sector and grants recipients fully funded participation in the annual International Astronautical Congress (IAC) — often called the “Olympics of Space” — covering flight expenses, accommodation, per diem, congress registration, and access to side events.

For Gumarang, the achievement is a testament to ISAT U’s commitment to scientific inquiry.

“This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without ISAT U’s continued support for the ISAT U Space Society and its initiative in advancing space science and technology applications in the region,” he said.

Gumarang will present his paper, “Democratizing Space Education Through Local Applications in Emerging Space Nations: Insights from Youth-Driven Grassroots Outreach in the Philippines,” during an oral session at the IAC, hosted by the IAF in Antalya, Türkiye, on October 5-9, 2026.

“This paper highlights how space becomes less ‘out of reach’ when we bring it to communities, when we talk about it, and when we see how it shapes our everyday lives,” he explained.

This year’s congress is set to be the largest in the event’s history, with a record 8,300-plus abstracts submitted. From that pool, the International Programme Committee selected 2,846 for oral presentation and 1,773 for interactive presentation — a reflection of the scale of innovation and global engagement shaping the event.

Representing the Philippines alongside Gumarang in this year’s cohort is Dona Beatrix B. Marabe, a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering student from De La Salle University Manila.

Gumarang is also the founder of the ISAT U Space Society and the Iloilo Space Organization.

The post ISAT U grad named ‘Emerging Space Leader’ first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

In a press conference on Monday, July 13, Liga ng mga Barangay Iloilo Provincial Federation president Amalia Debuque said preparations are in full swing for the event, which will be held at the Iloilo Sports Complex on Sunday, July 19.

“I think that (expected number of participants) is a record-breaking high in the Liga ng mga Barangay to gather this much people in the sports complex,” she told reporters.

The 2026 celebration carries the theme, “Kusog sang Kabarangayan, Kusog sang Probinsya kag Kabanwahanan,” highlighting the role of barangays in strengthening communities and local governance.

Activities will begin at 7 a.m. with the arrival of delegates, followed by the Parade of Colors featuring cadet officers, cultural performers, muses and escorts, and barangay delegations from across the province.

The morning program will feature a welcome message from Debuque, an inspirational message from Governor Arthur R. Defensor Jr., the presentation of delegates, and the ceremonial distribution of checks under the Bawat Barangay Makikinabang Program in two batches.

Debuque said processing of documents for the program is ongoing, with more than 90 percent of the required papers already completing voucher and FURS processing.

She explained that the release of assistance will depend on the submission and compliance of the concerned barangays, with some local government units already having complete documents ready for release.

Debuque said the Provincial Liga has coordinated with the Iloilo City Government, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), and the Traffic Management Unit (TPMO) for the conduct of the event.

Around 130 police personnel from the city and provincial police offices will be deployed, while a “drop-and-go” traffic scheme will be implemented for vehicles bringing barangay officials to the venue.

Parking areas have also been designated at West Visayas State University and Iloilo National High School.

Among the invited guests are National Liga ng mga Barangay sa Pilipinas president Maria Katrina Jessica G. Dy, and League of Cities of the Philippines National president and San Juan City Mayor Francis M. Zamora.

The names of the celebrity performers will be announced separately.

The afternoon program will feature the Bida ka sa Liga Live Showdown, raffle draws, the awarding of winners in the Bida ka sa Liga, Hataw sa Liga and Trashion Show competitions, and a live performance by Rivermaya.

Despite the scale of the gathering, Debuque said she hopes the annual celebration will strengthen camaraderie among barangay officials across the province.

“Nothing is perfect, but I hope they will enjoy. I hope there will be camaraderie among the barangay officials in Iloilo Province,” she said.Carla Eunice Guevara, WVSU-COC intern/IMT

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Senator Erwin Tulfo warned against what he described as growing efforts to spread false claims about Philippine territory after Chinese scholars reportedly asserted that Batanes is part of China. 

“We have to act fast in ensuring that Filipinos are not easily swayed by these kinds of claims. As early as Basic Education, Filipinos must be equipped with knowledge about the Philippine sovereignty,” Tulfo said as he pushed for the immediate passage of his proposed West Philippine Sea Education Act.

Senator Risa Hontiveros also urged Filipinos not to forget the country’s legal victory, saying it remains a strong response to China’s continuing territorial claims and disinformation. 

“The 2016 Hague Ruling still stands, affirming that China’s nine-dash line has absolutely no basis in international law,” Hontiveros said, adding that the ruling continues to serve as a shield against attempts to distort the truth.

For his part, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan said the country’s victory in The Hague should inspire Filipinos to continue supporting communities in the Kalayaan Island Group, particularly fishermen who continue to face intimidation while earning a living. 

“Darating ang tunay na tagumpay kapag ang ating mga kababayan ay malaya at walang takot na nakakapamumuhay, nakakapangisda, at nakakapangarap sa West Philippine Sea,” he said.

Senator Bam Aquino likewise stressed that the arbitral ruling remains a reminder that the country’s sovereign rights must be protected. 

“Sa gitna ng mga patuloy na hamon sa West Philippine Sea, nananatiling malinaw ang ating paninindigan: atin ang West Philippine Sea, at patuloy nating ipaglalaban ang ating soberanya, ang ating mga karapatan, at ang ating pambansang interes,” said Aquino.IMT

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Brooks first made her mark after winning the Miss Iloilo 2024 crown before advancing to the Top 10 of Miss Universe Philippines 2024.

The Leon, Iloilo native’s impressive performance paved the way for her to compete in Miss Eco International, where she captured the coveted title in Egypt and became only the third Filipina to win the international crown.

Now, Brooks is among the official candidates of Reina Filipinas, a new national pageant that will select the country’s representative to Miss Grand International.

The Ilongga stunner’s return comes after completing her reign as Miss Eco International, including traveling back to Egypt to crown her successor.

Beyond pageantry, Brooks is also recognized for her achievements in sports as a former national athlete and UAAP Most Valuable Player.

The athlete’s journey from a small town in Iloilo to the international pageant stage has inspired many aspiring Ilonggo queens and young women across the country.

Rather than resting on her previous accomplishments, Brooks has chosen to pursue another challenge, proving that her passion for representing the Philippines remains as strong as ever.

As she begins another quest for a national crown, Brooks once again carries not only the hopes of the country but also the pride of Iloilo.

If victorious, the Ilongga queen will earn another chance to showcase Filipino excellence on the global stage—adding yet another remarkable chapter to a pageant journey that continues to inspire. Meriel Faith Dumapit, WVSU-COC intern/IMT

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Superficial topped the provincial list with an 84.1-percent IOG, anchored on an 83.7-percent public trust rating and an 84.5-percent performance rating, while Gorriceta followed with an 83.5-percent IOG, consisting of 83.3-percent trust and 83.8-percent performance.

Sharing the second rank were Barotac Nuevo Mayor Bryant Paul “BP” Q. Biron with an 82.8-percent IOG (82.6% trust; 83.1% performance), Dumangas Mayor Braeden John “BJ” Q. Biron with 82.5 percent (82.4% trust; 82.6% performance), and Leganes Mayor Vicente “Junjun” P. Jaen II with 82.0 percent (81.8% trust; 82.3% performance).

Landing in third place were Guimbal Mayor Janette “Jen” G. Colada, who posted an 81.4-percent IOG (81.3% trust; 81.5% performance), and Miagao Mayor Oscar “Richard” S. Garin Jr., who earned 80.7 percent (80.6% trust; 80.8% performance).

The fourth rank was shared by Alimodian Mayor Ian Kenneth A. Alfeche, who registered 78.6 percent (78.4% trust; 78.9% performance), and Tigbauan Mayor Virgilio “Nene” T. Teruel, who obtained 77.8 percent (77.2% trust; 78.4% performance).

The fifth place was bagged by Oton Mayor Sofronio L. Fusin Jr., with an IOG of 76.9 percent (76.3% trust; 77.5% performance), and Pototan Mayor Rafael Enrique “Adi” P. Lazaro, who posted 75.9 percent (75.8% trust; 76.1% performance).

Sharing the sixth rank were Sara Mayor Jon N. Aying, who recorded 73.4 percent (73.2% trust; 73.6% performance), and Cabatuan Mayor Elizalde “Boboy” G. Pueyo, who received 72.6 percent (72.4% trust; 72.8% performance).

In seventh place were San Joaquin Mayor Joe Abad S. Lazaro Jr., who garnered 71.4 percent (71.3% trust; 71.6% performance), Lambunao Mayor Reynor R. Gonzales, with 70.6 percent (70.5% trust; 70.8% performance), and Ajuy Mayor Nene Loida Espinosa, who earned 70.4 percent (70.1% trust; 70.3% performance).

Rounding out the list at eighth place were Calinog Mayor Francisco “Frank” Calvo, who posted an IOG of 69.8 percent (69.7% trust; 70.0% performance), and Janiuay Mayor Paul Parian, who registered 69.1 percent (68.5% trust; 69.8% performance).

The Index of Governance combined respondents’ public trust ratings and performance assessments, with the latter measuring leadership and administrative competence, fiscal management, social service delivery, peace and order, infrastructure development, disaster preparedness and response, environmental governance, digitalization, transparency and accountability, and responsiveness to constituents.

“These results show that public trust is strengthened when municipal leaders deliver measurable services, manage public resources responsibly, and remain responsive to the needs of their constituents,” said Dr. Paul Martinez, executive director of RPMD and a global affairs and political analyst.

“The ratings provide both recognition for strong governance and a continuing benchmark for public officials to sustain and improve their performance,” he added.

The survey was conducted from April 1 to 8, 2026, effectively covering the first quarter of the year, involving 5,000 randomly selected registered voters across the province and carrying a ±1-percent margin of error at a 95-percent confidence level.

The Iloilo provincial assessment forms part of the nationwide “Boses ng Bayan” program of RPMD Foundation Inc., an independent, non-commissioned public opinion and governance research initiative.

Through evidence-based measures of public trust and governance performance, the program provides both citizens and public officials with an objective assessment of governance outcomes and on-the-ground public sentiment.Jose Alphonso Ceria, WVSU-COC intern/IMT

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Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson has questioned what he described as a recurring pattern of prominent personalities being hospitalized after they are cited in contempt or face arrest over criminal cases.

Lacson raised the issue following the confinement of former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan and Senator Rodante Marcoleta at the Philippine National Police General Hospital while facing plunder and graft charges before the Sandiganbayan.

“Since time immemorial, when a prominent personality is cited in contempt or faces arrest, he/she suddenly gets sick and needs to be hospitalized,” he said, adding that the same pattern has been observed in previous high-profile cases.

The senator also questioned who is paying for the hospitalization of Bonoan and Marcoleta, noting that the PNP General Hospital is primarily intended for police personnel and their qualified dependents. 

Some police officers, according to him, have reportedly been denied admission because of limited space.

Lacson said he plans to raise the issue during the deliberations on the proposed 2027 budgets of the Philippine National Police and the Department of the Interior and Local Government. 

“I intend to raise this when the budget deliberations for the PNP and DILG for 2027 starts. I will ask, who are authorized to be confined there and who shoulders the expenses for the PNP-GH when non-dependents are confined there?” he said.IMT

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“From Saudi Arabia to Pakistan to Chile, and now, the Philippines. A legacy of progress and global innovation is making its way to your roads,” the company said.

Aramco acquired a 25% equity stake in Unioil Petroleum Philippines, Inc (UPPI), which operated more than 160 retail stations across the country.

The global oil giant committed approximately P4 billion to fund the expansion of its local network.

The opening of Aramco’s fuel station in Parañaque City on July 16 marks the return of the Dhahran-based company to the country’s retail market after 17 years.

Aramco exited the Philippine fuel market in 2008 after it sold its 40 percent stake in Petron Corp. to British firm Ashmore Group for USD550 million.IMT

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Gatchalian said the move is aimed at promoting transparency and allowing Filipinos to examine the evidence for themselves instead of relying on information circulating on social media.

“Sisiguraduhin natin na lahat ng dokumento at ebidensya ay makikita ng publiko dahil naka-upload na ang mga ito sa Senate website,” he said.

Gatchalian added that the Senate Secretariat has already been instructed to ensure that documents are uploaded as quickly as they are presented during the trial. 

“We invite the public to scrutinize, read, and understand the proceedings for themselves. We realize that while we, at the upper chamber, sit as senator-judges, the ultimate judges of this impeachment proceeding are the Filipino people,” the Senate chief said.

According to Gatchalian, making the records publicly available also helps protect the integrity of the Senate by ensuring that the proceedings remain transparent and open to public scrutiny.IMT

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