Fatal Explosion in Valenzuela City Claims Two Children and Injures Seven

An explosion in Valenzuela City yesterday morning tragically resulted in the deaths of two children and caused injuries to seven individuals. The blast occurred shortly after 11 a.m. at a residential compound in Barangay Marulas, where four families were affected. Authorities revealed that the house, owned by a couple, was being used to store pyrotechnic powder. Northern Police District director Brig. Gen. Jerry Protacio explained the couple was keeping the fireworks while prices remained low. Addressing the incident, Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian described it as an "isolated case" and emphasized that the city is not involved in the firecracker industry. The city government is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the explosion and providing assistance to affected families.

Nabilfilmex Celebrates 12th Edition, Showcases 57 Films in Nabunturan

Nabilfilmex, the country’s pioneering open-air film festival, successfully concluded its 12th edition from September 17 to 21, 2025, in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro. The event presented 57 carefully selected films from over 200 submissions nationwide, affirming its status as a vital platform for independent filmmakers, particularly from Mindanao. Since its inception, Nabilfilmex has played a significant role in developing local filmmaking talent, with many participants going on to achieve national recognition. This year’s festival featured a diverse lineup including 15 films competing in the open category from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, 21 entries from student filmmakers in Davao de Oro, 15 documentaries, as well as special opening and closing films. Screenings were held across various venues such as the FDCP Cinematheque Centre Nabunturan, NNCHS Art and Media Studio, ACN Audio Visual Room, and nightly open-air sessions at the Municipal Plaza. Each film was followed by engaging talkback sessions designed to deepen audience understanding, especially among student attendees. Highlighting the event was a two-day masterclass led by award-winning director Zig Dulay, known for his works including the Netflix film "Greenbones" and the GMA 7 series "Maria Clara at Ibarra." This session offered valuable insights into filmmaking and storytelling to aspiring artists. Complementing the cinematic showcases, an Arts Exhibit displayed the creations of talented local artisans, further celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Nabunturan. Guests were warmly received by the local government and organizers, emphasizing the town’s reputation as "The HeART of the Valley." Nabilfilmex is a flagship initiative supported by the Local Government of Nabunturan in partnership with the Municipal Tourism Council, along with national institutions such as the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). This collaboration continues to bolster the growth of independent cinema and the arts within the region.

Flooding Disrupts Transportation in Calasiao, Pangasinan Amid Bridge Construction

On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, severe flooding in Calasiao, Pangasinan rendered several roads impassable, including a temporary detour in Barangay Talibaew established during ongoing bridge construction. Drivers reported significant travel challenges due to the inundation. Motorist AJ Joquino shared the difficulties faced, stating, \"Even if only tricycle paths are filled, it still hinders the flow because this situation is very inconvenient.\" In response, authorities temporarily opened the under-construction bridge section to allow vehicle passage. However, the flooded bridge approach forced motorcyclists to transport their bikes by boat to cross safely. Kristine Joy Soriano, spokesperson for the Calasiao Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), advised caution: \"Please exercise extra care as there are still individuals attempting to cross the flooded waters. We do not recommend crossing on motorcycles or tricycles for your safety. To avoid accidents, boats are available and should be used as the primary mode of transportation in and out of Barangay Talibaew.\" The Municipal DRRMO also reported that Mancup Highway, a major thoroughfare in the town, is currently inaccessible to light vehicles. Similarly, water levels in Sitio Riverside, Barangay Dinalaoan, have risen, preventing passage of smaller vehicles. Authorities remain vigilant and continue to monitor flood conditions in these affected areas to ensure public safety and coordinate response efforts.

MassKara Festival 2025 Launches with Dual Venues for Historic Kickoff

The MassKara Festival 2025 is set to commence on October 1 at 5 p.m., marking a historic first by simultaneously launching at two distinct locations: the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) and the Bacolod Public Plaza. This dual-venue approach aims to broaden the festival's reach and engagement. Festival organizers highlighted that the BCGC continues to serve as the festival's contemporary hub, while the Bacolod Public Plaza preserves its role as a cultural landmark, offering a traditional backdrop to the festivities. This arrangement seeks to bring the celebration closer to a wider audience by activating prominent public spaces across the city. Festival Director Rodney Mitz Ascalon commented on the significance of the strategy, stating, "With this setup, we want to maximize the vibrancy of our public spaces. The Plaza is not only a heritage landmark but also a stage where Bacolodnons and visitors alike can feel the pulse of MassKara." In addition to the opening ceremony, the Public Plaza will host a robust lineup of performances and cultural activities, enriching the downtown atmosphere and ensuring that the city’s core resonates with the festival’s energy. Ascalon further explained that this simultaneous kickoff reflects the festival’s overarching theme, "One Smile, One City," which aims to unify Bacolod by blending its rich traditions with contemporary expressions.

Muñoz Mayor Endorses Upcoming Oyster Mushroom Processing Plant

Science City of Muñoz Mayor Baby Armi Alvarez has expressed enthusiastic support for the soon-to-be-operational oyster mushroom processing plant in the city. During a meeting on Wednesday, September 24, the mayor warmly received representatives from the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office III to discuss the establishment of the processing facility at the Cabisuculan Mushroom Center. \"The mayor conveyed her happiness over a program that will greatly benefit many residents of Muñoz,\" officials reported. The city government reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the agricultural industry, recognizing the plant as a valuable development for the community\'s economic growth and sustainability.

Rizal Halts Tourist Activities Amid Severe Tropical Storm Opong

Rizal Governor Nina Ynares announced a temporary suspension of operations at several tourist sites across the province today in response to Severe Tropical Storm Opong. The decision prioritizes the safety of visitors, employees, and local communities. Governor Ynares emphasized caution, stating, \"Let us wait for the weather to improve, as exploring is better enjoyed when it is safe. For now, everyone is advised to stay safe, stay alert, and keep dry.\" Key affected locations include Hinulugang Taktak in Antipolo, along with the suspension of nature and tourism activities in Montalban. In Tanay, outdoor activities such as swimming, river trekking, and mountain climbing have been halted. Similarly, Binangonan has banned trekking, hiking, paragliding, and other outdoor tourism-related pursuits. Additionally, San Mateo has postponed the San Mateo Rizal Grand Concert 2025 and the Mr. and Ms. San Mateo Rizal 2025 Coronation Night as a precautionary measure. These steps reflect the provincial government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all amid severe weather conditions.

Super Typhoon "Nando" Impacts Over 41,000 Families in Ilocos Sur, Triggering Floods and Landslides

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) confirmed that Super Typhoon "Nando," combined with the southwest monsoon, has impacted 41,226 families, amounting to 159,579 individuals, across 173 barangays within 21 municipalities and cities in Ilocos Sur. Flooding was reported in 147 barangays spanning 12 municipalities and two cities. Additionally, one town suffered 13 landslides, five of which were classified as major incidents. Seven houses sustained partial damage. Officials reported that several barangay roads, municipal routes, and two national highways became impassable due to floodwaters and landslides, restricting movement and complicating response operations. The province's agriculture sector faced significant setbacks with damages estimated at PHP23.1 million, while losses in livestock reached PHP520,405. Infrastructure damages across the region totaled approximately PHP69.8 million. In response, the PDRRMC, alongside local government units, has initiated relief operations targeting displaced families. Emergency teams are maintaining vigilant surveillance over the affected locations, especially those vulnerable to recurring floods and landslides, as adverse weather conditions persist following the typhoon's passage.

Typhoon Aftermath Leaves Multiple Roads Blocked and Thousands Stranded Across the Philippines

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has reported that sixteen roads across several regions in the Philippines remain impassable following the impact of tropical cyclones Mirasol, Nando, and Opong, alongside the prevailing southwest monsoon. The affected areas include parts of the Cordilleras, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Bicol, Western Visayas, and Eastern Visayas. Response teams have been actively deployed to remove debris and restore accessibility. The primary factors causing road closures consist of flooding, soil erosion, damaged slope protections, fallen power posts, and other storm debris. Specifically, roads obstructed are located in provinces such as Apayao, Benguet, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Cagayan, Isabela, Masbate, Antique, Biliran, and Leyte. Additionally, access to ten other roads in the Cordilleras, Ilocos, Calabarzon, and Bicol regions remains restricted due to ongoing damage and clearance efforts. Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed that severe weather from Typhoon Opong has resulted in nearly 7,000 passengers being stranded at ports nationwide. The storm halted the movement of 2,639 rolling cargo units, 80 vessels, and 31 motorboats. In Metro Manila and Central Luzon alone, 92 sea travelers, 40 rolling cargoes, and 35 vessels remain stranded. Other affected regions include Southern Tagalog, Bicol, the Visayas, Northeastern Mindanao, and Palawan, where 79 passengers and multiple vessels are reported stranded. A maritime incident was also recorded when the cargo vessel M/V Solid Harmony, seeking shelter in Carmen Bay near Romblon, ran aground after drifting. The PCG responded promptly, receiving a distress call from the ship's captain. Fortunately, no oil spill has been detected, and all crew members are safe. Efforts to clear critical roadways vital for emergency response and community access continue amid challenges posed by fallen trees, power posts, mud, and rocks. "These efforts underscore the Coast Guard’s commitment to saving lives, restoring safety and bringing hope to people affected by the storm," the PCG stated. In response to the devastation, religious groups in the Bicol region have organized fundraising campaigns to aid communities in Masbate severely impacted by Opong. Church leaders urged parishioners to contribute generously during masses and participate in relief operations. Bishop Hernando Abcede of Daet instructed all parishes within his diocese to conduct second collections, with proceeds earmarked for disaster recovery in Masbate. Earlier, various churches served as temporary shelters for those displaced by the typhoon.

Malabon City Breaks Ground on Upgraded San Lorenzo Ruiz General Hospital

Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval led the groundbreaking ceremony for the San Lorenzo Ruiz General Hospital in Barangay Panghulo, marking its elevation to a Level 2 hospital. The expanded hospital now features a 200-bed capacity along with upgraded facilities and state-of-the-art medical equipment designed to better serve the residents of Malabon. "This is a historic day for Malabon! We have officially inaugurated the San Lorenzo Ruiz General Hospital, which now offers broader services and modern amenities for our community," Mayor Sandoval stated. She emphasized that the project fulfills a key promise to provide high-quality healthcare access through a modernized hospital setting. As a Level 2 institution, the hospital will offer specialized services in Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Surgery, Anesthesiology, and other essential medical fields. Mayor Sandoval highlighted the importance of these expanded capabilities in meeting the diverse health needs of Malabon residents. Joining the mayor at the event was her husband, former Congressman Ricky Sandoval, who was instrumental in the hospital's development through his authorship of House Bill 5791 during the 17th Congress.

Cebu City Councilor Criticizes Mayor over Continued Operation of Colon Night Market

Cebu City Councilor Pastor "Jun" Alcover Jr. has openly criticized Mayor Nestor Archival for allowing the Colon Night Market to operate despite ongoing legal and regulatory questions. The mayor recently stated there were no valid reasons to halt the night market, dismissing calls for a compliance review. Speaking on Tuesday, September 30, Alcover questioned Mayor Archival's understanding of the situation, suggesting the mayor either misunderstood or overlooked key aspects of the issue. The councilor highlighted that according to City Ordinance 2386, the Garbo Asenso Sumbanan Alyansa (Gasa) sa Gugma Board is the authorized body responsible for approving the night market’s operations. Alcover clarified that the Gasa sa Gugma Board is distinct from fee collection activities, countering Archival's implication that unpaid vendor fees from the previous board justified continued market operation without proper approval. The councilor emphasized that without the current Gasa sa Gugma Board's consent, the night market’s ongoing activities lack proper legal endorsement, raising concerns about its compliance with city regulations.