Rafael "Paeng" Nepomuceno SSS Pensioner, Kapwa atleta, hinikayat maging contributor ng SSS
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LUCENA CITY – Strengthening its commitment to Universal Health care (UHC), Philhealth officially launched the Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) in Region 4A last February 27, 2026 held at the Quezon Convention Center headed by DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa with Philhealth President and CEO, Dr. Edwin M. Mercado and Philhealth Regional Office IVA Acting RVP, Dr. Edwin m. Oriňa.
The event marks a significant milestone in the expansion of the Philhealth’s Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP), an enhanced primary care benefit package that shifts the focus of health care from curative treatment to preventive services.
A centerpiece of the launch is the operationalization of the Philhealth GAMOT, an app used to prescribe medications, validate prescriptions, record dispensing, and monitor performance of GAMOT facilities. Through the platform, YAKAP accredited physicians can issue electronic prescription that partner pharmacies can verify instantly. This digital innovation ensures that guaranteed medicines reach members faster, reducing paperwork and waiting times.
The event included a walkthrough of the YAKAP availment process with QPHN-QMC, as YAKAP and GAMOT Provider, including St. Hildegard Pharmacy Accredited GAMOT Provider.
Under the Philhealth GAMOT, members and their dependents can now access up to P20,000 worth of outpatient medicines annually which includes 54 Specialized Medicines accessible through accredited GAMOT-partner pharmacies for chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma.
Meanwhile, the 21 essential medicines under YAKAP continue to be available this year in YAKAP accredited primary care facilities nationwide.
The YAKAP program also includes expanded coverage for selected outpatient cancer screening, such as:
- Breast cancer (mammogram and ultrasound)
- Colorectal cancer (colonoscopu)
- Liver cancer (liver ultrasound and alpha-fetoprotein test)
- Lung cancer screening
Philhealth highlighted that by integrating consultations, diagnostics, and medicines into a single primary care system, YAKAP and GAMOT shift the focus from reactive treatment to proactive health management.
Joining the launched were key representatives from various local government units, national government agencies, alongside accredited YAKAP and GAMOT providers from across the Quezon Province.
The Philhealth GAMOT rollout in Region 4A, in partnership with the Quezon Provincial Office, highlights strong collaboration with local governments, health facilities and GAMOT providers to bring accessible and affordable health services closer to communities.
To date, there are 256 YAKAP clinics in the region, of which 187 are YAKAP-ready clinics, which means that they have fully comply with all Philhealth readiness requirements. While, a total of 129 are Philhealth GAMOT facilities ready to dispense medications to members.
The strategic and phased implementation of the Philhealth GAMOT is hinged on the readiness and operational capacity of these YAKAP Clinics to provide the necessary medical care and prescriptions to member when needed.
Philhealth reminds the public that selection of YAKAP provider of choice may be done via the eGovPH mobile app or at any Philhealth Local Health Insurance Office. Assignment to a preferred YAKAP clinic provides immediate access to essential preventive services and GAMOT benefits, ensuring every family remains ‘malayo sa sakit’ through a proactive primary care.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), under the leadership of Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., awarded ₱1,000,000.00 in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Assistance to the Local Government Unit of Dagupan City to strengthen STEM education through enhanced Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) support programs.
The assistance was formally received by Mayor Belen T. Fernandez on behalf of the city government. The funding will be used to upgrade robotics equipment, expand AI learning initiatives, and provide capacity-building activities for both educators and students. The program aims to equip young learners with future-ready skills in coding, automation, problem-solving, and digital innovation.
This initiative forms part of DOST’s continuing commitment to empower local government units in building innovation-driven communities and expanding access to emerging technologies at the grassroots level.
This partnership highlights the shared vision of DOST and LGU Dagupan in nurturing globally competitive learners and positioning Dagupan City as a growing hub for science, technology, and innovation in the region.( Carla Joyce B. Cajala)
Through the Department of Science and Technology Region XII (DOST SOCCSKSARGEN), Hon. Rudy S. Caoagdan, Representative of the Second District of Cotabato and member of the House Committee on Science and Technology, paid a courtesy visit to the Department of Science and Technology Central Office in Bicutan, Taguig to explore science-driven opportunities that can accelerate agricultural and industrial development in his district.
Congressman Caoagdan together with DOST SOCCSSKARGEN Regional Director Engr. Sammy P. Malawan met with DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., Regional Operations Undersecretary Sancho A. Mabborang, Countryside Development Assistant Secretary Engr. Maria Teresa B. De Guzman and Annabelle V. Briones, Executive Director of the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), to discuss potential collaborations that would harness innovation for coconut processing and cattle production in Cotabato Province.
As one of the key agricultural provinces in SOCCSKSARGEN, Cotabato has strong potential to move beyond raw commodity production toward value-added processing. Discussions highlighted the need to enhance coconut processing technologies to improve extraction efficiency, product quality, and compliance with national and international standards.
By leveraging ITDI’s expertise in food processing, packaging, testing, and national metrology, local farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can be supported in developing higher-value coconut products such as virgin coconut oil, coco sugar, flour, and other derivative products that command stronger market demand. The collaboration aims to ensure that producers are not limited to selling copra or raw nuts, but are empowered to participate in processing, branding, and commercialization.
Beyond coconut, the meeting also highlighted the need to strengthen Cotabato’s cattle industry. Recognizing the province’s growing livestock sector, Congressman Caoagdan sought DOST’s support in modernizing cattle production and meat processing through science-based interventions.
Discussions focused on research-driven feed formulation, food safety testing, meat preservation, and improved packaging to enhance productivity, ensure quality standards, and expand market access. Integrating technology across the livestock value chain is seen as key to increasing farmer incomes and supporting regional food security.
Following the meeting, the delegation toured ITDI’s state-of-the-art laboratories and technical divisions, where they were briefed on available technologies ready for adoption and commercialization. The visit showcased ITDI’s capabilities in industrial research and development, standards and testing services, materials science, chemical and analytical services, food innovation, and national metrology – core pillars in strengthening local industries and accelerating economic growth.
The convergence reflects a shared commitment to building an integrated innovation ecosystem that bridges national research institutions with grassroots communities.
With coconut and cattle identified as strategic growth drivers, Cotabato Province is positioning itself for a transition toward science-enabled, value-added agriculture. Through strengthened partnerships between national R&D institutions and local leadership, the province moves closer to transforming its natural resources into sustainable economic opportunities – demonstrating that from research laboratories to rural livelihoods, innovation is shaping the future of Cotabato.
More than 300 Grade 12 students gathered for an inspiring and knowledge-filled day during the Cavite Entrepreneurship Students Caravan dubbed “ABM BIZ Talks: Igniting the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs” held on February 23 at Amadeo Integrated High School.
The activity was facilitated by the Office of the Provincial Cooperatives Development Officer (OPCDO) headed by Ms. Myrachel P. Cuadra, as part of its continuing commitment to nurture entrepreneurial awareness among the youth of Cavite.
Dr. Gloria T. Villela, Principal III – Amadeo Integrated High School warmly welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of equipping students with practical knowledge and skills that will help them become future-ready entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, Amadeo Mayor Jose R. Domingo inspired the students through his message, encouraging them to explore business opportunities, embrace innovation, and contribute to the local economy of Amadeo and the entire province.
Highlighting the programs and services of OPCDO, Ms. Liza Gabatan, OPCDO Entrepreneurial Division Head, presented various initiatives designed to support aspiring entrepreneurs, including cooperative development assistance, training programs, and business-related services available to Caviteños. Her presentation introduced students to opportunities they may pursue as they transition from school to the business world.
Adding depth to the learning session, Dr. Leo D. Manansala, Vice Dean – College of Professional & Graduate Studies, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, delivered an engaging lecture on Entrepreneurial Mindset, where he discussed the importance of creativity, resilience, risk-taking, and adaptability in building successful ventures. He encouraged students to shift their perspective from merely seeking employment to becoming job creators in the future.
An open forum followed the discussion, allowing students to actively participate by raising questions and sharing insights. The interactive exchange created a dynamic learning environment and further strengthened the students’ understanding of entrepreneurship.
Through the initiative, the Provincial Government of Cavite continues to empower the next generation—igniting passion, building confidence, and shaping young Caviteños into future entrepreneurs ready to take on the challenges of the modern business landscape. — OPIO
Mga Likha Ni Inay, Inc. (MLNI), the marketing arm of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), officially opened the Likha Ni Inay Convenience Store on January 12, 2026, within the CARD-MRI Development Institute (CMDI) San Pablo campus in San Pablo City, Laguna. The store was established to ensure the safety and security of CMDI’s students, teachers, and staff, while providing convenient access to daily essentials without leaving the campus.
Highlighting the importance of the store’s on-campus location, Mr. Aristeo A. Dequito, CARD MRI Managing Director, emphasized its contribution to safety and convenience. “Our students and staff no longer have to leave the campus,” he said. “Accessing daily necessities is much safer and more convenient because the store is located right within our school.”
CMDI President Dr. Edzel D. Ramos echoed this sentiment, underscoring the store’s role in supporting the school’s daily needs. “This store is a great help to the entire school community, especially in meeting the everyday needs of our students, teachers, and staff,” he said. “It will also be of service to nearby offices and establishments,” he added, noting that the store is also open to the public.
Operated by five staff members, the convenience store is expected to serve more than 900 CMDI senior high school students, while also catering to customers from the surrounding community and business establishments.
Reflecting MLNI’s mission to support sustainable livelihoods and entrepreneurship, the store offers not only everyday necessities but also products crafted by CARD clients, including Calamansi Concentrate, Crunchy Peanut Butter, Paborita, fruit teas, Corn Puffs, Rice Kape, muscovado sugar, and special tinapa. It also serves ready-to-eat meals such as silog meals, chaofan, and short-order snacks. CMDI uniforms are available as well, directly addressing students’ immediate needs.
In line with CMDI’s student-centered initiatives, the store’s second floor has been dedicated as a student lounge, providing a comfortable space where students can dine and study on the campus.
CARD MRI Founder and Chair Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip described the newly opened convenience store as practical support for students’ daily needs, enabling them to focus on their studies without leaving the campus. “The opening of this convenience store is designed to make your studies more convenient, so that you no longer have to go far for food or school supplies, especially during class hours,” he said. “Because what I want to see— is for all of you to graduate successfully,” he added, affirming the store’s purpose in supporting students’ academic journey.
The opening was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and store blessing facilitated by MLNI staff spearheaded by MLNI Chief Operating Officer Angela A. Poonin. The event was attended by CARD MRI Founder and Chair Emeritus Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip; CARD MRI Managing Director Aristeo A. Dequito; CARD Bank, Inc. Senior Management Adviser Dr. Dolores M. Torres; CARD SME BANK Senior Management Adviser Cynthia B. Baldeo; CARD Leasing and Finance Corporation (CLFC) President Ma. Rodessa R. Burgos. Ambassador Romeo Manalo also graced the opening with his presence. They were welcomed by CMDI President Dr. Edzel D. Ramos and Senior Adviser Dr. Flordeliza Sarmiento, alongside MLNI Chairman Frederick Nicasio Torres. Staff representatives from Ottokonek and CARD Indogrosir were also in attendance.
The store is located along Jose P. Rizal Avenue in Barangay VII-A, San Pablo City, Laguna, within the CMDI campus, which is strategically positioned at the heart of the city to serve not only the school community but also the surrounding area. Looking ahead, MLNI plans to open additional convenience stores across CMDI campuses in Bay, Laguna, and Tagum City, Davao de Oro, throughout 2026.
The Office of the Provincial Public Employment Service Manager (OPPESM), headed by Ms. Rizalie Pinpin-Enero, collaborated with the local government of Cavite City, under the leadership of Mayor Denver R. Chua, for the successful run of the Cavite Career Caravan in Cavite City on February 19, offering a with a wide-array of opportunities for Caviteño jobseekers.
The initiative successfully brought together 330 registered job seekers, 40 local, and 3 international companies offering a total of 12,419 job vacancies. A total of 30 applicants were hired on the spot. Additionally, 11 national government agencies were present to assist participants in updating their records. These agencies included the Philippine Statistics Authority, Social Security System, PAGIBIG Fund, Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), National Bureau of Investigation, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Integrated Bar of the Philippines, and the Office of the Provincial Cooperatives Development Officer for those interested in cooperative, livelihood and entrepreneurial programs.
Career coaching was also provided for jobseekers, covering topics such as resume writing, acing job interviews, and avoiding illegal recruitment practices. The initiative was particularly valuable for recent graduates, offering them a strong start in their job search.
The event was supported by Ms. Marivic B. Martinez, Director II of the DOLE-Cavite Provincial Office, and City Councilor Emily Misenas Tirona, Chairperson on the Committee on Labor and Employment. — F. Tamio (CPIO)
HULI ang dalawang street-level individual (SLI) sa ikinasang buy-bust operation ng mga awtoridad na nagresulta pa sa pagkakakumpiska ng baril kamakailan sa Dasmariñas City, Cavite.
Kinilala ang dalawang suspek sa mga alyas na Boy at Ken, kapwa residente ng Dasmariñas City.
Nabatid na ang mga suspek ay nagbenta ng isang heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet na naglalaman ng hinihinalang marijuana na Kush sa isang police poseur-buyer kapalit ng limang daang pisong bill na ginamit bilang buy-bust money.
Kasunod nito ay narekober sa pag-iingat ng mga suspek ang tatlo pang heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet na naglalaman ng hinihinalang marijuana na Kush na may bigat na mahigit o kulang 1.40 gramo na may tinatayang karaniwang presyo ng gamot na P2,100.00; isang kalibre .45 Taurus pistol; isang kalibre .45 magazine; dalawang kalibre .45 na mga bala; at minarkahan ang P500.00 peso bill bilang buy-bust money.
Ang matagumpay na operasyon na isinagawa dakong alas-4:50 ng umaga nitong Pebrero 24 ng mga operatiba ng Drug Enforcement Unit ng Dasmariñas Component City Police Station ay may koordinasyon sa Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency at may paggamit ng Alternatibong Recording Device.
Ilagay ang inyong lahok sa Google form link na ito: <https://forms.gle/KxzvL3Drx8FARqa3A>
Ang Tulâ Táyo ay isang onlayn na timpalak sa pagsulat ng katutubong tulâ. Pangunahing layunin nito na palaganapin ang talino sa pamamagitan ng paglikha ng tulâ na nakasulat sa wikang Filipino na nagpapamalas ng maiglang partisipasyon ng makakata sa ibang rehiyon ng bansa. Bukás ang timpalak sa mga dalít, diyóna, at tanagà na nakasulat sa wikang Filipino na pumapaksa tungkol sa tema ng Buwan ng Panitikan 2026 na Bekët (Bigkis) Panitikan sa Katwiran at Kalikasan.
Mga Tuntunin:
- Ipapaskil ang mga tulâ—diyóna, dalít, o tanagà—sa seksiyon ng mga komento at sa google form link (gagawin pa lámang) ng nakatalagang poster ng bawat anyo ng tulâ upang maging opisyal na lahok ito. Susundin ang sumusunod na iskedyul para sa pagpapaskil:
ANYO PETSA NG PAGTANGGAP NG LAHOK
Dalít 23–27 Pebrero 2026
Diyóna 2–6 Marso 2026
Tanagà 9–13 Marso 2026
- Magiging opisyal ang mga lahok kapag ipinasok ito sa google form link na matatagpuan sa opisyal na Facebook page ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino.
- Tatanggap ng mga orihinal na tulâ na nakasulat sa wikang Filipino at nása antas tudlikan. Gawing tema ng tula ang tungkol sa tema ng Buwan ng Panitikan 2026.
- Tatanggap ng isang libong piso (PHP1,000.00) ang unang sampung (10) magwawagi sa bawat anyo. Ipapaskil sa opisyal na website at social media ng KWF ang mga magwawagi sa bawat anyo ng tula.
- Pinal at hindi na mababago ang magiging pasiya ng mga hurado ng timpalak.
NAGING matagumpay ang isinagawang hot pursuit operation ng mga tauhan ng Carmona Component City Police Station matapos maaresto ang isang hit-and-run suspect na nagresulta pa sa pagkakasabat ng droga at baril sa pag-iingat nito kamakailan sa Cavite.
Ang suspek na si alyas Ian, naninirahan sa General Trias City, ay naaresto sa kahabaan ng Governor’s Drive nitong Pebrero 23.
Nauna rito, dakong alas-10:17 ng gabi nitong Pebrero 22 ay bumangga ang puting Honda Civic sa Suzuki Raider 150. Sa halip na huminto at tumulong ay tumakas ang suspek gayunman ay agad itong nahuli matapos ang agarang aksiyon ng kapulisan.
Nabatid na habang kinukuha ang lisensya ay nakita ang isang baril sa loob ng bag ng suspek.
Ang kasunod na inspeksyon ay humantong sa pagbawi ng isang 9mm pistol na may 22 live na rounds, at humigit-kumulang 75 gramo ng hinihinalang shabu na may tinatayang Standard Drug Price na P 510,000.00.
Nakuha rin ng mga operatiba ang isang digital weighing scale at mga drug paraphernalia.
Dahil dito, bukod sa kasong Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Physical Injury and Damage to Property ay naharap din ang suspek sa mga paglabag sa RA 9165 at RA 10591.
ARESTADO ang isang City Level Most Wanted Person sa matagumpay na manhunt operation ng mga awtoridad kamakailan sa Bacoor City, Cavite.
Ang akusadong si alyas CJ, kasalukuyang naninirahan sa Bacoor City, ay naaresto nitong Pebrero 24 ng mga operatiba ng Bacoor Component City Police Station.
Inaresto ang akusado sa bisa ng warrant of arrest para sa paglabag sa Section 11, Article II ng RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) na inisyu ng Presiding Judge ng RTC Branch 111, Bacoor City, na may petsang Pebrero 13, 2026, na may inirekomendang piyansa na nagkakahalaga ng P200.00.
GIIT ni Atty. Levi Baligod, ang pribadong nagrereklamo sa kaso ng PDAF (Priority Development Assistance Fund) laban sa negosyanteng si Janet Lim Napoles 13 taon na ang nakalipas, ay nagsabi na inakala nila na magkakaroon ng pagbabago sa mga opisyal ng gobyerno.
Sa isang press conference na hinost ni Rod Cornejo sa Club Filipino, sinabi ni Atty. Baligod na lumipas na ang 13 taon, at ang milyung-milyong piso na ninakaw ng mga tiwaling opisyal ay naging bilyong piso na.
Ipinakilala niya ang dating mga sundalo, na ngayon ay wala na sa serbisyo, nais nilang maging totoong sundalo tulad ni Master Sergeant Orly Regala Goteza, isang dating security consultant noon.
Kinilala ni Atty. Beligod, representante ng Ako Bicol party-list, ang mga dating sundalo bilang sina Belnald Tube, Rosbert Waopan, Benny Boluntate, Johhny Godone, Rodante Orbillo, Reneboy Julian, Cristopher Esquivel, George Bilalon, Jr., Romeo Romel Pomares, Gil Navad, Jr., Anselmo Taberno, Walter Manalansan, Jolly Cabiao, Rommel Galapon, Cecilio Larodel, Jr., Bernand Guban, Crisany Dado, at Fidel Corpus.
Mayroon pang 12 sa kanilang mga kasama na hindi makakabilang ngayong araw dahil sa personal na dahilan, na may mga mahal sa buhay na nagtatrabaho pa sa gobyerno. Ang pangalawang batch na 10 ay lalabas sa tamang panahon.
Ayon kay Baligod, ipinakita ng isang affidavit na isinagawa ng mga affiant na maraming kontratista ang nagbibilang at nagbabayad ng pera kay Zaldy Co sa kanyang tirahan sa Valle Verde, Lungsod ng Pasig at sa Horizon Homes at sa isang tirahan ng isang mambabatas.
Ang mga imbestigador ng ICC mismo ay gumawa ng katiwalian at korapsyon kaya’t lahat ng kanilang gastusin ay sinuportahan ng mga kritiko ng pamahalaan noon.
Isusumite ni Baligod ang mga affidavit sa Tanggapan ng Ombudsman, pati na rin sa ICC upang malaman ng ICC kung paano nagpatakbo ang mga imbestigador ng ICC sa Pilipinas, at sa lahat ng embahada upang malaman nila kung paano gumagana ang ICC at sa mga Pilipino upang malaman nila kung saan napupunta ang kanilang buwis.
Si Atty. Baligod ay isang abogado, isang litigator na may 20 taong karanasan. Batay sa mga katotohanan ang kanyang pagtatrabaho. Naghain siya ng mga kaso laban sa mga senador at Kasapi ng Gabinete.
ISANG Provincial Level Most Wanted Person ang naaresto ng mga tauhan ng Silang Municipal Police Station kamakailan sa Tagaytay City, Cavite.
Ang akusadong si alyas Liza, kasalukuyang naninirahan sa Bacoor City, ay naaresto nitong Pebrero 25.
Inaresto ang akusado dahil sa paglabag sa Republic Act 10883, o mas kilala bilang New Anti-Carnapping Law of the Philippines sa bisa ng warrant of arrest na inisyu ng Presiding Judge ng Regional Trial Court, Branch 131, Trece Martires City, Cavite, na may petsang Hunyo 30, 2020, na may inirekomendang piyansa sa Php 300,000.00.