Philippines to Host WorkAbility Asia Conference 2025 Promoting Inclusive Employment for PWDs

The Philippines is set to host the WorkAbility Asia (WAsia) Conference 2025 from September 22 to 24 at Novotel Manila Araneta City. This significant event will convene leaders, employers, and advocates dedicated to advancing inclusive employment opportunities for persons with disabilities (PWDs). Organized by De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde in partnership with The Nippon Foundation, the conference will operate under the theme "Inclusion at Work: Transforming Perspectives, Creating Opportunities." It aims to highlight effective strategies for cultivating equitable work environments and strengthening regional cooperation across Asia. Susan Scott-Parker, OBE HonD and founder of Business Disability International, will serve as the keynote speaker. Emphasizing disability inclusion as a catalyst for innovation and economic growth, she remarked that the conference will play a vital role in "bridging the gap between businesses and people with disabilities." The event's agenda includes keynote presentations, BizTalks sessions, cultural networking opportunities, and site visits to pioneering inclusive workplaces within the Philippines. These visits will showcase exemplary models of accessibility and the use of adaptive technologies, demonstrating the potential for integrating PWDs meaningfully into the workforce.

Department of Migrant Workers to Expand OFW Lounges at Key Philippine Airports

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has announced its intention to open additional Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Lounges, specifically targeting Clark International Airport and Mactan–Cebu International Airport. This announcement came amidst circulating reports suggesting the possible shutdown of existing lounges at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1 and 3. In a statement released on September 20, 2025, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac confirmed that the department is finalizing plans to establish new OFW Lounges at the two airports. "We already have plans to open new OFW Lounges in Cebu and Clark," Cacdac stated, emphasizing that expansion efforts are underway. He further elaborated that the search for other suitable airport locations where enhanced facilities could be introduced remains ongoing. "The search continues for other airports, where similar and even better facilities can be built," he said. These announcements come after concerns arose that the OFW Lounges at NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 might cease operations by 2026 due to potential budget reductions affecting the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (Owwa). Last week, Owwa officially denied these claims, affirming that funding issues would not affect their services. The DMW has echoed Owwa's position, clarifying that not only will existing lounges continue to operate, but plans for additional lounges are actively progressing. The expansion aims to enhance the support system and comfort for overseas Filipino workers as they travel through major airports across the country.

Cebu Province Proposes P11.9 Billion Budget for 2026, Marked by Revenue Realism

The Cebu Provincial Government has put forward an annual budget proposal of P11.9 billion for 2026, a figure Governor Pamela Baricuatro describes as "realistic" and aligned with the province's actual revenue capabilities. This proposal represents a 52.4 percent reduction compared to the P25 billion budget set for 2025. Governor Baricuatro criticized the previous budget as "bloated," suggesting that despite its size, it did not reflect the province’s ability to generate revenue effectively. She emphasized the importance of a more pragmatic budgeting approach. The proposed budget allocates P1.3 billion for hospital improvements alongside P1.45 billion dedicated to infrastructure development. Baricuatro stressed the need to balance funding between healthcare and infrastructure to ensure that the province’s overburdened medical facilities receive adequate support. "Our budget distribution for infrastructure and healthcare is roughly equal, since we do not want to focus solely on infrastructure while our hospitals remain in poor condition," she explained. Additional funds will facilitate the construction of relief warehouses for the Cebu Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office in Carcar and Danao cities. Furthermore, the Provincial Nutrition Council will receive significant funding aimed at reducing malnutrition rates in the most affected municipalities. The proposed budget will undergo review and approval by the Cebu Provincial Board in the coming sessions.

Cadiz City’s Avila Mangrove Reserve Honored as Leading Bird Sanctuary in the Philippines

The Avila Mangrove Reserve and Migratory Birds Sanctuary (AMRMBS) in Barangay Daga, Cadiz City, Negros Occidental, continues to be a crucial sanctuary for migratory birds and marine biodiversity. Spanning 33 hectares, the reserve recently earned first runner-up recognition at the prestigious Para El Mar Awards held on September 18 in Iloilo City. Taking the top prize was the Balisungan Marine Protected Area in Coron, Palawan. The Siruma Mangrove Local Conservation Area in Camarines Sur and Bauang Bakawan Eco-Tourism Park in La Union were awarded second and third runners-up, respectively. Organized biennially by the Marine Protected Areas Support Network, the Para El Mar Awards acknowledge local governments and communities exhibiting exemplary marine resource management, conservation, and protection practices. Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. of Cadiz City expressed pride over the accolade, emphasizing the city's dedication to environmental stewardship. He stated, \"This recognition offers new hope and inspiration for us Cadizeños to further strengthen our programs and initiatives aimed at preserving our environment and natural resources.\" More than a typical mangrove forest, AMRMBS serves as a vital living refuge that supports both human communities and diverse wildlife. Its mature mangrove root systems provide essential habitat for juvenile fish and crabs, while thousands of migratory birds utilize the sanctuary as a critical stopover during their intercontinental journeys. The sanctuary is a component of Cadiz's wetlands, which are currently under consideration for Ramsar designation — a status identifying wetlands of international importance. AMRMBS hosts 31 species of mangroves, including the rare and endemic Camptostemon philippinensis (locally known as Gapas-gapas), a symbol representative of Cadiz City. Each year, the sanctuary provides refuge to over 6,000 migratory shorebirds, such as the Great Knot, a species classified as globally threatened. These rich natural resources position AMRMBS as an indispensable site along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, a major migratory route supporting international bird conservation efforts.

Bicol Police Conduct Week-Long Anti-Drug Operation Seizing Over PHP3.4 Million Worth of Illegal Substances

From September 15 to 21, the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) executed an extensive anti-drug campaign resulting in the confiscation of illegal drugs valued at more than PHP3.4 million and the detention of 30 suspects. PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr. reported that the seizure included 500.95 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) and 9 grams of marijuana. The authorities conducted 26 operations leading to these arrests, which comprised two high-value targets and 28 street-level suspects. Following the activities, a total of 32 criminal cases have been formally lodged. In terms of geographical distribution of drug seizures, Masbate accounted for the largest share with PHP1.94 million worth of illegal substances seized. Naga City followed with PHP1.02 million, while Camarines Sur had PHP297,636. The provinces of Albay, Sorsogon, and Camarines Norte recorded PHP49,580, PHP74,024, and PHP16,048 worth of confiscated drugs, respectively. Catanduanes, however, reported no seizures during this period. These coordinated efforts underscore PRO-5's commitment to curbing the proliferation of illegal drugs across the Bicol region.

Chinese Nationals Dismantled Illegal Mining Operations in Davao Following Pogo Crackdowns

Authorities recently dismantled illegal mining operations in Marasugan, Davao de Oro, which were reportedly managed by Chinese nationals earlier apprehended for involvement in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogos). On September 12, a joint operation by the National Bureau of Investigation–Southeastern Mindanao (NBI-Semro) and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau-Davao Region targeted two sites in Purok Lanipga and Purok Mandaupan, Barangay Bahi. The raid uncovered extensive mining infrastructure, including bunkers, tunnels, heavy equipment, sacks of copper ore, and explosive materials such as ANFO and blasting caps. NBI-Semro spokesperson Ely Leano revealed that intelligence linked the suspects to the same Chinese individuals previously arrested in Pogo-related cases. He explained, \"They did not return to China; instead, they remained in the Davao Region and allegedly shifted their operations to mining.\" Support for the raid came from both the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police. Authorities are currently preparing cases concerning illegal possession of explosives and violations of environmental regulations. Officials noted this discovery reflects a troubling trend in the Davao Region, where Chinese nationals apprehended for Pogo activities have migrated to other unlawful enterprises, including mining. Notably, in December 2024, NBI agents raided a Pogo facility in Panabo City, Davao del Norte, arresting 59 Chinese nationals and one Filipino. Earlier in August, eight Chinese nationals running a gaming hub inside a subdivision in Davao City’s Buhangin district were also arrested. Across the country, the Bureau of Immigration has identified over 11,000 foreign nationals for deportation following the implementation of Executive Order No. 74, which banned all Pogo operations at the end of 2024. Despite these efforts, some individuals continue to operate illicitly, engaging in businesses that threaten environmental safety and public order. Leano emphasized the need for persistent and coordinated law enforcement, warning that \"without sustained efforts, these illegal operators will keep shifting from one illicit trade to another.\" He added that the Marasugan mining raid should serve as a cautionary reminder as Mindanao confronts evolving challenges posed by organized crime.

DENR-Davao Collects Nearly 5 Tons of Waste in Coastal Clean-Up Drive

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the Davao Region (DENR-Davao) successfully collected approximately 692 sacks of garbage, equating to 4,674 kilograms, during a recent coastal clean-up event at Purok 5 and Sitio Malamboon, Barangay 76-A, Bucana, Davao City. Food wrappers emerged as the most encountered debris with 4,026 pieces collected, followed closely by 3,738 cigarette butts, 2,584 plastic bags, 2,029 plastic sachets, and 1,545 fragments of plastic and foam materials. This year’s haul is slightly lower than last year’s collection, which amounted to 691 sacks weighing 7,435 kilograms. The previous clean-up included a diverse range of waste such as plastic bags, bottles, cans, bottle caps, fishing gear, diapers, Styrofoam, disposable food containers, straws, and even clothing and footwear. Maribel Alicer, Assistant Regional Director for Management Services at DENR-Davao, representing Regional Executive Director Atty. Ma. Mercedes V. Dumagan, highlighted the broader significance of the International Coastal Clean-up (ICC). She stated, \"The ICC is more than just a waste collection activity; it represents a unifying effort towards enhancing climate resilience. We encourage everyone to regularly participate in coastal clean-ups to substantially reduce marine debris.\" Alicer further emphasized the urgent need to protect marine ecosystems, noting, \"The ongoing impacts of climate change continue to threaten both our planet and livelihoods, making the safeguarding of our seas increasingly vital.\" Environmental Management Bureau–Davao Regional Director Alnulfo M. Alvarez expressed gratitude to the 2,044 volunteers from 54 institutions including government agencies, schools, and civic organizations. He remarked that the clean-up transcends public service, embodying a firm commitment to environmental stewardship. The event, conducted on September 20, was organized in partnership with the Civil Service Commission–Davao Region and carried this year’s ICC theme: \"Clean Seas Against the Climate Crisis.\" In accordance with Presidential Proclamation No. 470, the Philippines observes Coastal Clean-up Day every third Saturday of September, participating in this global initiative since 1994.

Former Inmate Arrested in Drug Bust in Cebu City with 20 Grams of Methamphetamine

Authorities from Abellana Police Station 2 arrested a 34-year-old former inmate in a buy-bust operation conducted at 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, along Sotto Drive, Barangay Kamputhaw, Cebu City. The suspect, identified as Jonathan Carbonilla Zamora, a resident of Gorordo Avenue in Barangay Kamputhaw, was taken into custody by the Cebu City Police Office. During the operation, police recovered multiple packets of suspected methamphetamine (shabu) weighing a total of 20 grams, with an estimated street value of PHP 136,000. The seized substances have been forwarded to the PNP Regional Forensic Unit for chemical analysis to confirm their composition. A personnel from Abellana Police Station revealed that Zamora had been previously detained but returned to illegal drug activities shortly after his release from Cebu City Jail. He is now facing charges for violations under Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The police reiterated their commitment to intensifying efforts against illegal drugs to ensure community safety.

ICC Charges Former President Duterte with Crimes Against Humanity in Drug War Killings

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has revealed the criminal charges brought against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, accusing him of involvement in 49 incidents of murder and attempted murder tied to his anti-drug campaign. These acts are categorized as crimes against humanity, spanning Duterte’s tenure both as mayor of Davao City and as the nation’s president. On September 22, the ICC published a public redacted version of the “Document Containing the Charges,” dated July 4, 2025. This announcement came just one day prior to a scheduled confirmation of charges hearing in The Hague, which has since been deferred after Duterte’s defense counsel argued he was “not fit to stand trial.” The document, signed by ICC Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang, states: "The Prosecution charges the murders and attempted murders below, although the actual scale of victimization during the charged period was significantly greater, as reflected in the widespread nature of the attack." The charges are detailed in three counts: - **Count 1** addresses murders as crimes against humanity occurring in Davao City during Duterte’s mayoralty. It covers 19 victims across nine separate incidents between 2013 and approximately 2016. These are brought under articles 7(1)(a), 25(3)(a) (indirect co-perpetration), 25(3)(b) (ordering and/or inducing), and 25(3)(c) (aiding and abetting). - **Count 2** involves the murder of so-called “high-value targets” nationwide during Duterte’s presidency, encompassing 14 victims from five incidents between roughly 2016 and 2017. The same ICC articles as Count 1 apply. - **Count 3** covers murder and attempted murder in barangay clearance operations throughout the Philippines while Duterte was president. This count pertains to 45 victims—43 of whom were killed—in incidents numbered 15 to 49 from around 2016 to 2018. The charges cite articles 7(1)(a) and/or 25(3)(f), 25(3)(a), 25(3)(b), and 25(3)(c). These charges underscore the extensive and systematic nature of alleged human rights violations linked to Duterte’s aggressive anti-drug policies, which have drawn widespread international condemnation. The proceedings remain pending as the court evaluates the defense’s claims regarding Duterte’s fitness for trial.

Ex-DPWH Engineer Admits Substandard Infrastructure Projects in Bulacan Amid Corruption Claims

In a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on September 23, former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) assistant district engineer Brice Hernandez admitted that all infrastructure projects in Bulacan executed from 2019 until the present have been substandard. Hernandez’s revelation emerged during discussions on controversies surrounding flood control initiatives in the province. Senator Paolo “Bam” Aquino IV directly questioned Hernandez about the quality of various public works, including classrooms, hospitals, bridges, roads, and streetlights. Gonzalez conceded, “Yes po, your honor,” affirming that these projects did not meet specifications and included overpriced components such as streetlights. Hernandez further detailed that adherence to proper construction standards was deliberately compromised to ensure allocations favored officials and influential figures who demanded a portion of the project budgets. “The DPWH had plans and budgets, but because the funds were divided among individuals, none of the projects were completed properly,” Hernandez stated, confirming that no work met the engineering specifications outlined in the plans from 2019 to 2025. When pressed by Senator Aquino about the pervasiveness of corruption, Hernandez responded unequivocally, “Lahat po (Everything), your honor.” This admission sheds light on systemic issues within infrastructure development in Bulacan, implicating longstanding graft that has undermined public service delivery and project integrity in the region.