The initiative, dubbed the Food for Early Education Development (FEED) program, was formalized through an ordinance authored by Councilor Frances Grace Parcon-Torres and approved by the Sangguniang Panlungsod during its regular session on Wednesday, April 16.

“One of the main reasons why we proposed this ordinance was for budget allocation so we will not only rely on a supplemental budget but every year it will have its own budget. For the school year 2024-2025, we have 10,099 development center- learners,” she said in a follow-up interview.

Parcon said they pegged the budget initially at P22 million because there are also donations from the private sector.

Another significant point of the ordinance is the participation of parents who will prepare the food for the learners.

The food has to comply with the cycle of menu and the standards of the supplementary feeding program (SFP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Western Visayas (DSWD-6).

“We have a cycle menu. Currently, our City Health, through the Iloilo City Nutrition Center, provides technical assistance in the preparation of the menu to see to it that they comply with the standards,” she added.PNA

The post Iloilo City institutionalizes feeding program for daycare learners first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

Among the most common scams users should watch out for are fake online bookings for travel and accommodations. Scammers often pose as legitimate agencies, offering deals that seem enticing but are fraudulent. To avoid falling victim, GCash advises users to book only through reputable websites and apps, checking contact details and reviews to verify authenticity.

Another popular scam involves “too-good-to-be-true” vacation deals that pressure unsuspecting victims into immediate payment. These offers are usually designed to exploit people’s excitement during the holidays. GCash urges its users to be wary of such deals and to always compare prices online to determine legitimacy.

Counterfeit tickets are also on the rise. Scammers offer cheap but supposedly time-sensitive ticket offers, but these are often fake. GCash reminds users to purchase tickets only from official sellers and to inspect tickets for any irregularities.

Other prevalent scams include phishing through fake Wi-Fi networks, misleading “free” vacation traps that require personal information, and overpriced tours from unverified operators. GCash emphasizes the importance of avoiding sensitive transactions over public Wi-Fi, being skeptical of unsolicited “free” offers, and thoroughly researching tour providers. Additionally, fake travel agents who lack credentials, lost luggage insurance sales on social media, and fake SIM cards or fixers promising illegal services are traps travelers should avoid. GCash recommends purchasing items and services only from authorized outlets and staying cautious around suspicious deals.

Emerging scams such as video sharing, screen sharing, and shoulder surfing have also surfaced as new methods scammers use to exploit unsuspecting individuals. Video sharing scams involve fraudsters persuading users to share videos of their screens or transaction details, revealing sensitive information in the process. Screen sharing scams occur when scammers request remote access to a user’s device under the guise of assistance, only to steal confidential data. Meanwhile, shoulder surfing involves scammers spying on users as they input sensitive information in public areas. GCash advises users to avoid sharing videos of their private transactions, reject unsolicited screen-sharing requests, and always be mindful of their surroundings by covering their screens or keypads when entering MPINs, OTPs, or other confidential information.

By staying alert and following these tips, travelers can enjoy their Holy Week holidays without the threat of online scams. GCash continues to encourage users to prioritize safety in all their digital transactions, helping to build a secure and scam-free environment for everyone.

The PNP-ACG urges citizens to report cybercrime incidents through their hotlines (02) 8414-1560 or 0998-598-8116, or via email at acg@pnp.gov.ph.

Meanwhile, GCash also reiterated that their users may also report suspicious activities through the GCash Help Center at https://help.gcash.com or by contacting the GCash hotline at 2882.

For additional resources on staying safe online, follow the PNP-ACG Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/pnpacg and the GCash website at https://www.gcash.com

Let’s make this Holy Week a time of peace and protection from fraud!

The post Stay away from online scams this Holy Week with GCash:#GSafeTayo tips for secure travels! first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

Francis Gentoral, Guimaras provincial economic and development officer, said in an interview on Wednesday, April 16, that preparations have been finalized across the province—from the Parola Wharf in Iloilo City to key destinations on the island.

“We are ready. All systems are in place from the Parola wharf to destinations. We have assigned monitoring teams that will check our destinations starting Thursday,” he said.

Tourism information centers are set up at the Parola Wharf and the Guimaras Provincial Capitol, where travelers can ask for guidance and provide feedback.

Gentoral said they have already alerted establishments, ferry operators, hospitals, and disaster risk reduction and management offices, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Philippine National Police to be ready for the expected influx.

“We recommend that tourists take advantage of DOT-accredited establishments for easy tracking and feedback. We encouraged them to patronize accredited so the handling of their experiences will be addressed,” he said.

Gentoral also warned against unregistered travel and tour operators, particularly those advertising on social media, as these can be difficult to trace in case of complaints.

Visitors can access a full list of accredited businesses by scanning the QR code posted on ferries, at tourism information centers, and on the official Tourism Guimaras Facebook page.

Currently, Guimaras has 61 DOT-accredited resorts and Mabuhay accommodations, nine restaurants, one transport operator, 12 regional tour guides, and five travel and tour companies.

A popular destination during Lent, Guimaras offers both religious and leisure experiences.

Thousands of pilgrims are expected on Good Friday to join the annual trek to Balaan Bukid in Barangay Balcon Melliza for the traditional Pagtaltal sa Balaan Bukid, a reenactment of the Passion of Christ that follows a 1.7-kilometer trail with the 14 Stations of the Cross.

Other Holy Week events include Pamalandong sa Tamborong in San Lorenzo and the Worship Festival in Buenavista, which begins on Palm Sunday with a reenactment of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem and concludes with a celebration on Black Saturday.

Gentoral also highlighted the Via Crucis at Fatima Farm in San Lorenzo, known for its serene setting and the miraculous image of Our Lady of Fatima, which he described as a meaningful site for reflection and prayer.Perla Lena/PNA

The post Guimaras expects 50K guests this Holy Week first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

“Every Good Friday, starting 6 a.m., loud sound is prohibited. We know that Boracay Island is a party destination, so we have a Sangguniang Bayan resolution that during that day we have to reflect, so parties and loud sounds are not allowed,” said Malay Tourism Office information officer Kathrine Licerio in an interview on Tuesday, April 15.

Parties and other activities on the island are allowed before Good Friday and after 6 a.m. on Black Saturday, April 19.

The tourism office of the municipality of Malay is expecting some 59,438 tourist arrivals from April 14 to 20.

“We are aiming 8,500 daily tourist arrivals to reach our projected number during the Holy Week,” she added.

On the island, they can enjoy water sports, but tourists can visit other destinations in mainland Malay.

Meanwhile, the local government will have a municipal-wide coastal and underwater cleanup drive from April 17 to 22. Tourism front-liners, volunteers, government agencies, private offices, and volunteers are expected to join the activity.

“During this week, we expect an influx of tourists, so there is a need to maintain the cleanliness of our white beach,” she added.PNA

The post Boracay bans loud noise, parties on Good Friday first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

The 12-day program gathered 14 personnel from various BFAR offices and facilities, including the Central Office and regional offices from Regions 3 (Central Luzon), 10 (Northern Mindanao), 11 (Davao), 12 (Soccsksargen), and 13 (Caraga).

At the opening program, BFAR-3 Regional Director Wilfredo Cruz emphasized the importance of a skilled workforce to support the National Bangus Development Program (NBDP) of the Philippines.
“With this training, I hope we can reach our target and make the country self-sufficient in fry production,” he told the trainees.

Intensive training

Throughout the training course, SEAFDEC/AQD’s specialists delivered lectures on topics such as milkfish biology, broodstock management, hatchery design, natural food culture, biosecurity protocols, brackishwater nursery management, pond site selection and preparation, milkfish grow-out culture, fish diseases, and feed formulation.

Other than lectures, trainees engaged in hands-on activities, like larval rearing tank setup, plankton identification, and milkfish fry harvesting, packing, and transport.

These sessions were conducted across SEAFDEC/AQD facilities at its Tigbauan Main Station and Dumangas Brackishwater Station, both in Iloilo, and Igang Marine Station in Guimaras.

“Although the training duration was short, it covered the important and critical days in milkfish larval rearing. The lessons and hatchery practices were backed up by research. I recommend SEAFDEC to anyone looking to pursue training in aquaculture,” shared Grace Abdala, one of the trainees who hails from the BFAR Central Office.

SEAFDEC Chief: Rise to the challenge

SEAFDEC/AQD Chief Dan Baliao highlighted the crucial role of training in advancing the Philippines’ aquaculture sector.

“Training equips individuals with the necessary tools and techniques to address the evolving challenges of aquaculture,” he said during the closing ceremony. “My challenge for you is to give your best, stand out from our Southeast Asian neighbors, and make the country’s milkfish industry a formidable one.”

On the other hand, BFAR-6 Director Remia Aparri challenged the trainees to apply what they had learned in SEAFDEC to their respective regions.

“Let us work together to optimize our resources and create a more resilient aquaculture sector,” she urged.

The trainees were the last of three batches of BFAR staff trained under the Philippines’ NBDP to reduce reliance on imported milkfish seed. The first batch of 12 trainees completed their course from 30 September to 11 October 2024, while the second batch of 13 trained from 14 to 25 October 2024.

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Full range and trusted property developer Filinvest Land, Inc. (FLI) recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the first seven buildings of Futura Rise, an up-and-coming walk-up condo community poised to set the standard for modern condominium living in Iloilo.

Building on the success of One Spatial Iloilo in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, launched in 2017, Filinvest Land marks another milestone as it expands its footprint in the progressive province of Iloilo. With the same commitment to delivering quality homes for aspiring homeowners, Futura Rise stands as the latest testament to the company’s legacy of building vibrant, accessible, and future-ready communities.

Futura Rise is located within the 11.4-hectare Iloilo Centrale, a master-planned township in Leganes. This mixed-use township seamlessly integrates modern living, recreational spaces, and lifestyle conveniences in one dynamic location along the accessible R-4 Road.

Designed to balance the township’s core values with the residents’ well-being, Futura Rise features a low-density atmosphere that creates a harmonious connection within the neighborhood. A total of 21 three-storey buildings will make up the community, with only ten units each floor and nearby parking spaces.

This vibrant enclave has a wide range of wellness-centered and pet-friendly amenities to complete the comfortable and convenient lifestyle. The clubhouse with swimming pool stands as Futura Rise’s focal point—the ideal setting for gatherings, functions, and making lasting memories with loved ones.

Residents can also spend more quality time amid nature in the community’s grand lawn, meditation garden, and multiple pocket parks. For those pursuing an active lifestyle, a fitness gym is available for enhancing exercise routines and a play area for kids to frolic around and make friends.

Units in Futura Rise range from 18.80 to 32.10 square meters. Buyers can opt for the cozy studio unit that caters to independence-seeking individuals and couples. Meanwhile the flexible open layout suites are built with no partitions, allowing provisions for up to two bedrooms. This is the ideal choice for growing families to nurture a bright future.

Louie Henry Carandang, FLI Vice President and Regional General Manager for Visayas, emphasized during the groundbreaking event, “This ceremony is more than just about building homes; it’s about fulfilling our promise of offering future residents a unique lifestyle in a walkable community.” The event was attended by company executives, sales partners, and representatives from the local government unit of Leganes.

Carandang also announced that developments in Futura Rise are moving forward. In less than five months after breaking ground for its land development, FLI was able to kick off the building construction for Phase 1A. “By 2027, we are expecting to start the turnover of units to its residents,” he further added.

With refreshing amenities, invigorating outdoor spaces, and integrated conveniences, Futura Rise in Iloilo Centrale is where residents can truly live it up. It ensures that every member of the family, including pets, have a safe space to live, connect, and play. Plus, its prime location near the bustling Jaro district of Iloilo City, the progressive establishments in Leganes, and the coastal restaurants lets residents enjoy easy access to retail hubs and various establishments for their daily and leisure needs.

To know more about the dynamic condo community of Futura Rise, interested parties can contact (0919) 076-4828 or visit the project website: https://futurarise.com/ for more information.

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The latest Philippine Public Opinion Monitor surveyed Filipinos on their views regarding the arrest of Duterte and the ongoing investigation by the ICC. Conducted from March 31 to April 7, 2025, this is the first national survey following the March 12 arrest of the former leader by Interpol and Philippine authorities under a warrant issued by the ICC.

On holding Duterte accountable

The nationwide survey revealed that 62% of Filipinos believe it is important for Duterte to personally stand trial in The Hague for the charges against him. Meanwhile, 20% disagree, and 19% are unsure. Additionally, 52% agree that he should be held accountable for crimes against humanity of murder for killings related to the drug war, while 24% disagree and 25% are unsure.

More than 6 in 10 (61%) also believe that the investigation and subsequent trial will help uncover the truth about the killings during Duterte’s drug war, while 21% disagree and 18% are undecided. 

When asked whether no one, including former presidents, should be above the law, 75% of Filipinos overwhelmingly agreed. Meanwhile, 16% were unsure, and 8% disagreed.

On investigating co-perpetrators

The demand for accountability extends beyond Duterte. A strong 61% of Filipinos believe it is important to bring his co-perpetrators to trial at the ICC. However, 21% view their arrest as unimportant, with 18% undecided. (See Figure 4)

Additionally, 2 in 3 Filipinos (66%) believe President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. should prioritize investigating and prosecuting police officers who abused their authority during Duterte’s anti-drug campaign. In contrast, 18% are undecided, and 16% disagree with this approach. (See Figure 4)

On the ICC investigation and trial

The nationwide survey revealed that Filipinos’ trust in the ICC is divided. More than half of Filipinos (53%) trust the international court to conduct a fair and impartial investigation and trial of former Pres. Duterte. In comparison, 47% express distrust toward the ICC.

Meanwhile, two-thirds of Filipinos (66%) think that the Philippines should allow the ICC to do its job and ensure smooth and fair investigation and trial on former Pres. Duterte. Some 17% disapprove of this statement, and the same percentage are unsure.

The survey questions featured in this press release were commissioned by Dr. Gary Ador Dionisio. The nationwide survey, conducted from March 31 to April 7, 2025, was done through face-to-face interviews with a nationally representative sample of 1,894 registered voters residing in the Philippines.

The nationwide survey has a margin of error of ±2% at a 95% confidence level. At the subnational level, the margin of error is ±6% for the National Capital Region, ±5% for North and Central Luzon, ±5% for South Luzon, ±5% for the Visayas, and ±5% for Mindanao, all at the same 95% confidence level.

These findings are part of the WR Numero Philippine Public Opinion Monitor, Volume 2025, Issue 2 (April 2025 National Survey). The survey includes the latest voter preferences for the May 2025 and 2028 elections, as well as current public opinion on the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte and the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.

To receive updates once the complete WR Numero Philippine Public Opinion Monitor Volume 2025, Issue 2 is released, sign up at bit.ly/PPOMSignup.PR

The post Majority of Filipinos say Pres. Duterte should stand trial in ICC — survey first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

This innovation makes eco-friendly SIMs available to Globe’s entire mobile base, with over 96% of mobile customers composed of Globe Prepaid and TM users. Globe previously launched eco-SIMs in 2022 for Postpaid users, becoming the first Philippine telco company to use recycled plastic for its simbeds.

By transitioning from virgin plastic SIMs to SIMs made from 100% recycled plastic, Globe Prepaid and TM are taking a proactive stance in environmental responsibility. This shift aims to support Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 13 on Climate Action.

“Sustainability is at the heart of what we do,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.  “We continue to look for areas in the business where our practice leads to greater impact.”

Eric Tanbauco, Globe’s Head of Consumer Mobile Business said, “The launch of our ecoSIMs is just one of the many ways Globe is working towards a greener Philippines, and we invite our customers to be part of this journey.”

As sustainability becomes a key priority for consumers, Globe continues to integrate eco-friendly initiatives into its services. This move resonates deeply with today’s customers—especially Gen Z, who demand real action from brands on climate change. At the same time, TM remains the top choice for value-conscious consumers, proving that sustainability and affordability can go hand in hand. With TM, users can contribute to sustainability in small but impactful ways, without added costs. This ensures that customers can enjoy a consistent connection while making a positive difference for the planet.

Beyond eco SIMs, Globe is continuously integrating green initiatives into its operations. These efforts include green network solutions, use of renewable energy, shift to electric vehicles, and other climate action strategies that help minimize environmental impact.

Globe Prepaid and TM’s eco SIMs will soon be available nationwide, making it easier for customers to participate in meaningful changes toward a more sustainable future. Through this initiative, Globe reaffirms its role as a leader in responsible and innovative telecom solutions—ensuring that every connection contributes to a greener tomorrow.

To learn more about Globe’s sustainability strategies, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

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COMELEC Regional Election Director, lawyer Dennis Ausan, in a media interview on Friday, April 11,expressed hope that the spirit of Lent could also help voters discern and come up with an informed decision on Election Day.

“Reminders: it is prohibited to campaign on Holy Thursday and Good Friday in whatever form. It will be an election offense for prohibited campaigning. That will be on April 17 and 18,” he said.

The ban covers campaigning in print, broadcast, social media, house-to-house, verbal, or anything that will promote their candidacy or defeat their rivals.

Even actions intended to discredit opponents are included in the prohibition.

Any citizen may file a complaint if violations occur.

He clarified, however, that the Comelec cannot file complaints.

“They can file it before the police and it will be facilitated to be filed before the Regional Trial Court, or they can file it with any offices of the Commission – both the electoral and the criminal aspect of the act. If criminal, it will go directly to the Regional Trial Court, or if electoral, it can be made the basis for a disqualification case,” he added.PNA

The post Candidates, public told to pause, reflect during Holy Week first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

Korean won fell to its lowest level in over 16 years on April 8, days since the Trump administration announced sweeping “reciprocal tariffs” on states and prompted fears of a global trade war.

Citing the Department of Tourism (DOT) data, LPC Director for Hotels, Tourism, and Leisure Alfred Lay said the first quarter figures signaled that the tourism sector is “plateauing” in terms of increasing the international visitor arrivals. 

“A lot of this is not necessarily in our control —the areas that are out of our control are things like our top source market, South Korea,” he said in a media briefing on Tuesday, April 8.

“Just like Japan did for the last few years, where they’ve had 30 to 35-year lows of the yen against the dollar, the Korean won is facing a similar situation at the moment —ever since they had that Martial Law declaration and the political turmoil that has brought an uncertainty, the South Korean market has really dropped off,” he said.

In the first quarter of 2025, the country received 395,059 visitors from South Korea, down by 13.86 percent from 458,619 last year.

The South Korean number represents almost a quarter or 23.88 percent of the overall inbound arrivals, which Lay said was a “key driver” of the country’s pandemic rebound.

“So, seeing our largest source market drop off by 14 percent is something that we need to be very, very mindful and cautious about and seek solutions to deal with that,” he said. 

He added China’s absence from the top five source markets marked a “significant shift,” the first time it fell from the list since the DOT began tracking tourist data online in 2008.

Leechiu, Lay said, estimates that tourist arrivals will remain at 6 million by the end of 2025.

“We don’t see any major catalysts looking down the next three quarters, so unless there are some major changes, we don’t expect the Philippines to outperform that 6 million number,” he said, but noted that visas on arrival and reducing the barriers to travel would help boost the inbound.

Meanwhile, Lay recognized the growth in the US, Japan, Australia, Canada markets, which ranges between 8 and 19 percent increase in arrivals this quarter.

He said the American market is also likely to stay strong despite the current situation in the US and slowdown in air traffic growth.

“In terms of the tariffs and travel, yes, the American market is a very strong source market of the Philippines— the type of people who are traveling from America to the Philippines are a very well resilient, robust source market,” he said.

“We’re talking about families which are reuniting, Filipinos who are going to travel across to the country whatever situation is happening in the world,“ he added, noting that this was the case even during the pandemic.

On the other hand, Lay said it is “still quite early” to tell what effects the Trump tariffs would pose on global travel.PNA

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