Senator Bam Aquino Proposes CAP Act to Address Classroom Shortage in Public Schools

Senator Bam Aquino has put forward the Classroom-Building Acceleration Program (CAP) Act, or Senate Bill 121, aiming to resolve the persistent shortage of classrooms in public schools across the Philippines. The proposed legislation seeks to allow local government units (LGUs) and non-government organizations (NGOs) to directly undertake classroom construction projects, backed by assistance from the national government. According to Aquino, this approach would expedite the building process and reduce costs compared to projects routed through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). He emphasized that this method would also enhance the efficiency and transparency of fund utilization. "Allowing LGUs and NGOs to build classrooms independently accelerates progress and ensures better management of allocated resources," Aquino stated. Additionally, he proposed reallocating unused flood control funds toward education to support the initiative. The Department of Education (DepEd) has reported a shortage of approximately 165,000 classrooms nationwide, with Central Visayas alone facing a deficit of 12,574 classrooms. This legislative effort aims to address these gaps and improve learning environments for students throughout the country.

Alas Pilipinas Faces Egypt in Crucial FIVB World Championship Match

MANILA, Philippines — The Filipino men's volleyball team, Alas Pilipinas, is preparing to challenge African powerhouse Egypt in a pivotal match at the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship on Tuesday at the Mall of Asia Arena. A victory for the Philippines would mark an unprecedented achievement in the nation’s volleyball history. Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni expressed optimism following the team's progress during their opening match against Tunisia last Friday, where despite a straight-set loss (25-13, 25-17, 25-23), the team showcased notable improvement, especially in the third set. “We're starting to play our volleyball,” Frigoni remarked, hoping that this momentum will continue against Egypt, ranked No. 21 globally by the FIVB — a substantial advantage over the Philippines’ No. 89 ranking. Egypt arrives confident after an impressive upset over Iran (25-17, 16-25, 25-23, 25-20) on Sunday. The six-time African champions are favored, but the Filipinos are banking on the formidable performance of Bryan Bagunas, who tallied 23 points during their World Championship debut. Alas Pilipinas captain Bagunas commented, “We hope to play the way we did in that third set when we face Egypt.” Egyptian players acknowledged the challenge ahead. Spiker Abdelrahman Elhossiny recognized the Filipino team's talent, while teammate Seifelding Hassan Aly noted the potential impact of the home crowd, stating, “It will be tough for sure because we're here in the Philippines and they have their fans so it will be so difficult, but we will deal with it.” Tuesday's volleyball schedule also features matches at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where Argentina faces Korea at 10:30 a.m., Ukraine takes on Algeria at 2 p.m., France meets Finland at 6 p.m., and Italy competes against Belgium at 9:30 p.m. On Monday, Cuba secured their first win in Pool D by defeating Colombia (25-22, 25-21, 25-20), while Turkey maintained an undefeated record in Pool G after overcoming Libya (25-18, 23-25, 25-14, 25-16). Canada advanced to the round of 16 by eliminating Japan with a straight-set victory (25-20, 25-23, 25-22). Meanwhile, Germany improved to a 1-1 record in Pool E following a three-set win over Chile (25-17, 25-23, 25-21).

Philippine and Thai Armies Conduct Joint Humanitarian and Disaster Response Training

The Philippine Army (PA) announced on Monday, September 15, that it partnered with the Royal Thai Army (RTA) for a two-day joint humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) training exercise held at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City. From September 11 to 12, the training took place at the Forerunner Training Area within Libingan ng mga Bayani and involved a subject matter expert exchange (SMEE). The activities focused on several critical areas including collapsed structure search and rescue, rope rescue techniques, patient handling, and medical response operations. Col. Louie Dema-ala, spokesperson for the PA, highlighted the effective teamwork demonstrated by both forces, emphasizing their shared commitment to saving lives during emergencies. He stated, \"The two-day PA-RTA HADR training reaffirms both Armies’ strong bilateral relations and reinforces the Philippine Army leadership’s push for the holistic human capital of soldiers, the organization’s most valuable resource.\" During the exercise, personnel from the 525th Combat Engineer Battalion, regarded as the PA’s leading disaster response unit, showcased their search and rescue capabilities, giving the RTA members a direct insight into advanced disaster response techniques. Additionally, the Thai delegation observed the 3rd Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill, an event that underscored the Philippines’ ongoing efforts to enhance nationwide disaster preparedness. Conducted on September 11 and 12, the drill simulated a magnitude 7.2 earthquake originating from the West Valley Fault affecting Metro Manila and adjoining provinces. The objective of the exercise was to assess disaster response procedures across strategic, operational, and tactical levels involving coordination among national and regional agencies, local governments, and uniformed services. Col. Dema-ala noted that the joint training not only improved technical expertise but also fostered camaraderie between Filipino and Thai soldiers. He reflected on the common challenges both countries face, stating, \"Given our shared experiences with devastating natural disasters, this collaboration strengthens our commitment to mutual support in disaster readiness and response.\" Situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire and along the typhoon belt, the Philippines frequently confronts severe natural calamities such as the 2013 Super Typhoon Yolanda and the 1990 Luzon earthquake, both of which caused significant loss of life and damage. Thailand has similarly endured major disasters, including the 2011 Bangkok floods affecting millions and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami impacting its southern coast. These shared vulnerabilities have driven Manila and Bangkok to deepen their cooperation in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery initiatives, reinforcing resilience in the face of future crises.

From Blueprint to Reality: How an Aligned Budget Builds a Better Philippines

For the residents of a remote farming barangay in Luzon, the newly paved road connecting their fields to the town market is more than just concrete and asphalt; it's a lifeline. It means less spoilage for their crops, faster trips for their children to get to school, and quicker access to medical care. This tangible progress, happening in communities across the country, isn't accidental. It's the direct result of a national budget meticulously planned, fiercely guarded, and purposefully aligned with the nation's goals—a core commitment of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s administration. President Marcos Jr. has championed a new era of fiscal discipline, making it clear that the government's spending plan must directly reflect the people's needs. He has issued a stern warning: any version of the General Appropriations Bill (GAB) that deviates from the administration’s National Expenditure Program (NEP) will be rejected. This firm stance sends a powerful message that the days of budgetary detours and misaligned priorities are over. With his extensive experience in governance, the President's position underscores a fundamental truth: a budget that is true to the administration's well-researched national plan is the only path to genuine, sustainable development. **This commitment to alignment is matched by an unprecedented push for transparency.** For the first time, the entire NEP has been published online, transforming a once-opaque document into an accessible blueprint for national progress. Citizens can now see exactly where their taxes are intended to go—from funding for universal healthcare to budgets for new classrooms and irrigation canals. Moreover, the bicameral sessions, where legislators reconcile their versions of the budget, are now open to the public. This shift empowers every Filipino to become a budget watchdog. The administration particularly encourages the youth to participate. Through digital platforms and social media, young, tech-savvy citizens can monitor deliberations, join discussions, and hold officials accountable, ensuring the budget truly serves the public interest. This is citizen empowerment in action, a cornerstone of a “Bagong Pilipinas.” The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has highlighted the severe consequences of a misaligned or re-enacted budget. When the budget is not passed on time or is filled with unvetted projects, essential services grind to a halt. Infrastructure projects are delayed, the delivery of social services slows down, and the nation’s economic momentum is put at risk. The administration argues that we can either embrace this transparent, aligned budget that fast-tracks services and infrastructure, or we can allow political maneuvering to delay progress and leave communities waiting. For a government that prides itself on being maaasahan at masipag (dependable and hardworking), the choice is clear. By ensuring the budget is harmonized with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) and the medium-term fiscal framework, *the Marcos Jr. administration guarantees that every peso is a strategic investment in the nation’s future.* This is the essence of a government that works—a budget that is not just a document of figures, but a covenant of service between the state and its people.

SRA and HPCo Collaborate on Organic Solution to Combat Sugarcane Pest in Negros Occidental

The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) has joined forces with the Hawaiian-Philippine Company (HPCo) to address the infestation of red-striped soft scale insects (RSSI) in Negros Occidental’s sugarcane fields through an organic treatment strategy. SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona reaffirmed support for HPCo’s biological approach, which aims to reduce the pest population that can diminish sugar content in crops by nearly 50 percent without harming the surrounding ecosystem. Azcona emphasized, \"This partnership is not only about resolving the current pest challenge but also about establishing sustainable agricultural practices that will benefit sugarcane farmers now and in the future.\" Since June, HPCo’s technical experts have been developing and refining an organic pest control protocol tailored to varying RSSI infestation levels. This initiative complements the SRA's broader sustainability agenda. Following a recent consultation with Israeli agricultural specialists Yael Skutelsky and Nina Lehmann, HPCo implemented a structured protocol comprising assessment, targeted spraying, and continuous monitoring. Rodeo Suating, HPCo’s Co-Generation Head and Regulatory Compliance Officer, explained, \"Our objective is to reduce the RSSI population to a level where natural predators can manage the pest, thereby restoring ecological balance. The protocol focuses on disrupting pest development and reproduction while preserving beneficial insect populations.\" The organic treatment consists of three phases: initial evaluation and application, a follow-up review with potential additional spraying, and a final monitoring stage to verify the return of beneficial insects. Originally tested in HPCo-managed plantations, the method is now being extended to neighboring farms. The SRA highlighted that unlike conventional pesticides, which can be detrimental to beneficial insects, the HPCo protocol offers a sustainable and cost-efficient alternative. Pest infestations are typically observed near field edges and roadsides, with symptoms—such as leaf yellowing, stunted growth, and shortened internodes—manifesting within 2 to 3 months after planting and peaking from the fourth to the tenth month. Paul Andrew Curran, HPCo Chairman, confirmed the company’s commitment to widespread application of the program across its mill district. Initial distribution of the organic treatment will be provided free of charge to affected farms in Silay City and Enrique B. Magalona municipality. Farmers will be responsible for implementing field assessments, spraying, and clearing trash to maximize the program’s effectiveness.

Ombudsman Suspends 16 DPWH Bulacan Employees Over Alleged Corruption in Flood Control Projects

Acting Ombudsman Dante Vargas has ordered the preventive suspension of 16 personnel from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office due to suspected corrupt practices connected to flood control projects. The suspension took effect on Thursday, September 18. This disciplinary measure follows the filing of criminal complaints by DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon last Monday against several employees implicated in the scandal. Secretary Dizon further emphasized that the agency aims to initiate at least one corruption case weekly as the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) intensifies its investigation into the alleged irregularities surrounding these flood control initiatives. In a related development, Commission on Audit (COA) Chairperson Gamaliel Cordoba has submitted additional fraud audit reports concerning flood control projects in the municipalities of Plaridel, Pandi, and Bocaue. These projects, amounting to a total allocation of ₱389.6 million, are reportedly linked to fraudulent activities, including missing requisite documentation, nonexistent civil works, inconsistencies in project locations, and flawed bid approval processes. The Ombudsman clarified that the preventive suspension aims to prevent the suspended personnel from influencing the ongoing probe or tampering with public records, thereby ensuring a transparent and unobstructed investigation process. "This measure is necessary to uphold the integrity of the investigation and to safeguard public funds," stated the Ombudsman’s office. The crackdown highlights the government’s intensified efforts to eradicate corruption within infrastructure projects vital for disaster mitigation and public safety.

DPWH Secretary Orders Asset Freezes in Flood Control Corruption Case

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vivencio "Vince" Dizon has taken stringent measures to hold accountable those implicated in irregularities involving government infrastructure projects. He has formally requested the Land Transportation Office (LTO), Land Registration Authority (LRA), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to submit comprehensive lists of vehicles, watercraft, and aircraft registered under the names of 26 DPWH officials and private company owners currently facing charges before the Office of the Ombudsman. In his letters to these agencies, Dizon emphasized that the request seeks to prevent the potential disposal or transfer of assets suspected to have been acquired through unlawful means, referencing Section 3(i) of Republic Act No. 9160, as amended. He stated, \"This preemptive step is crucial to safeguard these properties and ensure ongoing government initiatives against corruption and money laundering are not compromised.\" Earlier actions included seeking assistance from the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to petition the Court of Appeals (CA) for freeze orders on properties linked to the accused parties. These freeze orders, granted by the CA under Section 10 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act (RA 9160), target DPWH officials, employees, and private contractors involved in the multi-billion peso flood control project in Bulacan. Those under investigation encompass various DPWH personnel, including former regional and district engineers, section chiefs, and project engineers, as well as private sector representatives from construction companies such as Saint Timothy Construction Corporation, Wawao Builders, SYMS Construction Trading, and IM Construction Corporation. Secretary Dizon has directed that formal charges be filed against all implicated individuals at the Office of the Ombudsman. The allegations involve violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019), malversation under Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code, and falsification in connection with the Government Procurement Reform Act (RA 9184). These coordinated efforts signal a firm commitment by the DPWH leadership to combat corruption and reinforce transparency within government infrastructure undertakings.

SRA and HPCo Partner on Sustainable Organic Control of Pest Threatening Negros Sugarcane

The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) has strengthened its cooperation with the Hawaiian-Philippine Company (HPCo) to tackle the threat posed by the Red Striped Soft Scale Insect (RSSI), a major pest endangering sugarcane crops in Negros Occidental. This initiative employs an organic, eco-conscious biological control method designed to reduce pest populations while preserving beneficial insect species critical to the ecosystem of sugarcane plantations. During a site visit conducted on September 6, SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona expressed strong endorsement of HPCo's approach. He emphasized the partnership's broader goal, stating, \"Through this partnership, we're not just solving today's pest problem – we're laying the groundwork for sustainable farming practices that will benefit generations of sugarcane farmers in Negros and beyond.\" Since June, HPCo's technical team has been developing an organic treatment plan tailored to address varying levels of RSSI infestation, aligning closely with SRA's sustainability initiatives. The project received a significant boost after Israeli agricultural experts Yael Skutelsky and Nina Lehmann visited from August 10 to 16, sharing advanced biological pest control strategies. This knowledge transfer enabled HPCo to refine their procedures and implement a structured protocol involving systematic assessment, targeted application, and continuous monitoring. Rodeo Suating, HPCo Co-Gen Head and Regulatory Compliance Officer, explained, \"Our protocol focuses on disrupting pest development and reproduction without harming beneficial insects. The goal is to reduce the RSSI population to a level where natural predators can effectively manage the pest.\" The organic solution operates via a three-phase cycle: initial infestation assessment and targeted spraying; a follow-up evaluation with possible additional treatment; and final monitoring to ensure the recovery of beneficial insect populations. Early trials took place on HPCo-managed fields before expanding to adjacent plantations. Unlike conventional pesticides that can harm beneficial insects along with pests, the HPCo's biological approach provides a sustainable, cost-efficient alternative. Suating highlighted the environmental benefits, noting, \"This effort is about protecting both our crops and our environment. We want every farmer in our district to access this solution and participate in combating RSSI.\" HPCo Chairman Paul Andrew Curran affirmed the company's dedication to implementing the program throughout its mill district. The initiative includes collaboration with local government units and planters' organizations. The initial distribution of the organic treatment will be provided at no cost to farms in Silay City and E.B. Magalona. Farmers will play a crucial role by managing field assessments, spraying activities, and de-trashing necessary to execute the protocol effectively. RSSI infestations typically appear on field edges near roadsides, causing symptoms such as leaf yellowing, stunted cane growth, and shortened internodes. These symptoms manifest as early as 2 to 3 months post-planting, with infestation peaks occurring between the fourth and tenth month of cane development. This joint effort between SRA and HPCo signals a shared commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing long-term productivity for Negros sugarcane farmers. By prioritizing biological pest control, the program not only addresses the immediate threat posed by RSSI but also contributes to building a resilient and environmentally responsible sugarcane industry. Administrator Azcona reiterated the vision behind the collaboration, underscoring its legacy impact for future generations of cultivators in the region.

Tashanah Balangauan and John Paul Oro Triumph at ICTSI Negros Occidental Junior Philippine Golf Tour

In Bacolod City, Cebu’s Tashanah Balangauan mounted an impressive come-from-behind victory in the girls’ 15–18 division at the ICTSI Negros Occidental Junior Philippine Golf Tour (JPGT) Championship on Wednesday. Meanwhile, local favorite John Paul Oro captivated the home crowd by claiming the boys’ 15–18 title in a breakthrough performance. Balangauan, 16, overcame an early setback to defeat Precious Zaragosa by two strokes, finishing with a score of 75 and a 54-hole total of 222. Zaragosa struggled on the final hole with a bogey, finishing at 79 and a total of 224, while Breanna Rojas secured third place with an aggregate of 285. Despite a weather delay caused by a sudden downpour at the 15th hole that interrupted play, Balangauan maintained her composure. She reflected, \"The sudden downpour on No. 15 caused all flights to pause, which disrupted my momentum a bit. I trusted my preparation and just focused on each shot. Every time I go through my routine, I commit fully. I tried not to hesitate — just play with confidence.\" She clinched victory with a par on the 18th hole and dedicated her triumph to her family and supporters. In the boys’ division, Bacolod-born John Paul Oro held off a determined challenge from Alexis Nailga to win by three strokes. Oro completed his round with a 75, tallying a total score of 222. Nailga mounted a late comeback from eight shots behind but faltered with a double bogey on the final hole, finishing with a 72 and an aggregate of 225. Third place went to Azie Acuña, who edged out Mhark Fernando III via countback with a total score of 230. Expressing his excitement, Oro said, \"I’m so happy. It’s my first time winning at JPGT. I really wanted to qualify, but I couldn’t join the other legs. It’s hard to travel from Bacolod to Cebu or Mindanao.\" Although Oro’s win does not qualify him for the JPGT Finals due to participation rules, his success alongside Balangauan’s consistent performance highlights the expanding pool of young golfing talent emerging from the Visayas. Their victories underscore the dynamic growth of junior golf in the region as Visayas-based players continue to make their mark on the national stage.

No Jackpot Winners in Philippine Lotto Draws on September 18, 2025

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) announced that the major lotto draws held on Thursday, September 18, 2025, concluded without any jackpot winners. In the Superlotto 6/49 draw, the grand prize of P44,756,986.00 remained unclaimed as no ticket matched the winning numbers 45-03-18-25-23-36. Similarly, the Lotto 6/42 draw did not produce a winner for the P15,770,336.40 jackpot, with no bettors correctly selecting the combination 18-42-21-02-32-24. Players are encouraged to check the complete set of lotto results for further details and to continue participating in upcoming draws. The PCSO reiterated its commitment to responsible gaming and transparency in the conduct of its lotteries.