November Observances Highlight Reflection, Remembrance, and Resilience

November is a month steeped in reflection and remembrance within the Roman Catholic tradition and beyond. November 1st is dedicated to All Saints Day, a solemn occasion to honor canonized saints who exemplified virtuous lives and inspire believers to pursue goodness. As an apostle once described, saints represent the living followers of Jesus Christ whose legacy endures through their exemplary deeds. Following this, November 2nd serves as a time for the living to solemnly commemorate their departed loved ones, fostering a spirit of empathy and respect. During this period, expressions of kindness are especially important, including in digital spaces where compassion should temper judgment. A less commonly known observance in November is Marooned Without a Compass Day on November 6th. Unlike the festive nature of most holidays, this day marks a contemplative journey inward, symbolized by the story of shipwrecked sailors who navigated back home by relying solely on the stars after losing their compass. This day emphasizes qualities such as resilience, ingenuity, and determination amidst uncertainty. Marooned Without a Compass Day is not widely celebrated or commercialized, underscoring its introspective character. It prompts individuals to confront personal questions about identity, purpose, and direction when feeling adrift in the complexities of life. "Who am I really? Why am I in this limbo? What steps should I take next?" are among the crucial reflections encouraged by this observance. As November unfolds, these varied commemorations invite thoughtful engagement—from honoring historical faith and legacy to personal resilience and self-discovery. Whether through remembering saints, loved ones, or the metaphorical compass within, the month fosters a deeper connection to both the past and one’s inner guidance. In the words of many spiritual traditions, it is hoped that each person can find their compass, perhaps the very One who crafted the stars and seas, bringing light to darkness and guiding the way forward.

Cebu Ultimate Catwalk Superstar Winners Set to Represent Philippines in Global Pageants

The crowned winners of the Cebu Ultimate Catwalk Superstar have been officially announced and are slated to represent both the Philippines and Cebu in various prestigious pageants scheduled for 2025. The reveal took place on Saturday, October 4, 2025. Candy Tumakay and Rhonne Angeline Jhayle Daugdug will compete in the Kid Star International 2025 pageant in Bangkok, Thailand, from December 1 to 8. Candy will participate in the Little Miss category, while Rhonne Angeline will compete in the Miss Preteen category, representing the Philippines. Meanwhile, the Kids & Teens Global Pageant Philippines 2025 will feature several representatives from Cebu Ultimate Catwalk Superstar. Eiyannah Krys Yap (Little Miss), Mary Corazon Gualiza (Miss Preteen), and Mary Allynah Ciarrah Zabate (Miss Preteen) will represent Cebu City North, while Rhean Summer Dela Victoria will compete in the Miss Teen category for Cebu City. The candidates excelled in the Cebu Ultimate Catwalk Superstar competition, which had multiple categories: - **Kids Category:** Kiana Michaili Bacaltos (Grand Winner), Hnin Soe Che Tun (1st Runner-up), Eiyannah Khryss Yap (2nd Runner-up), Candy Tumakay (Little Miss Charity), and Rafaella Carra Cabalda (Little Miss Heritage). - **Preteen Category:** Shamzy Jopia (Grand Winner), Rhonne Angeline Jhayle Daugdug (1st Runner-up and Miss Preteen Charity), Alexandra Almario (2nd Runner-up), Mary Allynah Ciarrah Zabate (3rd Runner-up), Laiza Loraine Lungtad (4th Runner-up), and Mary Corazon Gualiza (Miss Preteen Heritage). - **Teens Category:** Rhean Summer Dela Victoria (Grand Winner), Yvaine Cate Poster (1st Runner-up), Yesha Mae Monsanto (2nd Runner-up), and Jediaelle Rhianne Caritan (Miss Teen Charity). Prince Joesaphate Amit, regional director of Cebu Ultimate Catwalk Superstar, expressed optimism about the candidates' prospects. He hopes that these titleholders will bring home accolades and proudly represent Cebu and the Philippines on the international stage. "We are confident in the capabilities and talents of our winners as they prepare to compete globally," Amit stated. "Their participation highlights the excellence cultivated here in Cebu."

Davao City Police Arrest Three in Joint Anti-Drug Operation in Barangay Piapi

Despite ongoing police efforts to maintain a drug-free environment in Davao City, some individuals continue engaging in the sale of prohibited substances. In response, a joint anti-illegal drug operation was conducted, resulting in the arrest of three street-level suspects in Barangay 21-C, Piapi Boulevard. The operation took place at 9:58 PM on September 26, 2025. Officers from the Calinan Police Station 10 - Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU), led by Police Major Robel Batapa Saavedra, collaborated with the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU), supervised by Police Lieutenant Colonel Randy Sambalod. The detained individuals include a 22-year-old unemployed man known as "Muadz," 35-year-old tricycle driver Ian, and 22-year-old female resident Sheramei, all from Purok 8B, Piapi Boulevard. Investigation revealed that a poseur buyer purchased an elongated heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing a white substance, suspected to be shabu, from the suspects using marked buy-bust money amounting to ₱5,000. The confiscated drug was valued at ₱372. Additionally, authorities seized a large rectangular sachet of shabu worth ₱27,472 and another packet priced at ₱272 from the suspects. The marked money used in the sting operation and a black Infinix Android mobile phone were also recovered. Inventory and marking of the evidence were conducted promptly in the presence of a barangay official in accordance with legal protocols. At present, the suspects remain in police custody and face charges under Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Police continue to urge the public to support their mission by reporting any activities related to illegal drugs to help realize the vision of a drug-free Davao City.