Landslide area in Camarines, Sur

On December 29, the family of Melvin Gonzales was having dinner when they heard a roaring sound amid the heavy downpour.

The sound marked the rock slide at the upper part of their house.

“Iyong paglingon ko, ang bahay namin bigla na lang pumutok. Tinulak na kami ng lupa,” Melvin recalled.

Melvin, his wife and 5 children managed to run out of danger.

However, his three children where buried alive in the landslide.

Meanwhile, all 8 children of Jose Ferno also died in the incident.

Authorities are still in search of his wife and youngest child.

“Hindi ko alam na ang ulan pala dito malakas sa Legazpi. Hindi naman masyado dito pala yung ulan bumagsak kaya namanatag ako doon,” said Ferno.

Based on the record of the local government ng Sagñay, Camarines Sur, the number of fatalities in the landslide in Brgy. Patitinan has reached 30.

Sagñay officials said they did not lack on reminding the residents in landslide-prone areas to evacuate.

However, Mayor Evelyn Fuentebella admitted that they did not enforce a mandatory evacuation.

“Just to inform them na it;s delikado kasi actually hindi namin ini-expect ito. Sino ba naman na gusto itong mangyari ‘di ba? Hindi kami nagmandatory. ‘Yun lang siguro pero they we’re warned,” said the local chief executive.

On Wednesday morning (January 2), rescue teams of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) have arrived to help in the search of 16 missing individuals in Sitio Igot and Sitio Garang of Brgy. Patitinan.

“Meron daw doon kung saan nag-evacuate ang mga victims. Iyong chapel yata so ang balita mula ngayon hindi pa nila napapasok iyon. So iyon ang pagpunta namin ang isu-survey namin. Iyon ang magiging concentration namin,” said Philippine Army DRU officer LTC Joel Sobrera.

“Sana makuha natin pero gagawin naman namin lahat ng magagawa namin para mahanap natin lahat,” said MMDA Public Safety Officer Allan Nicart Longcop.

Vice President Leni Robredo also arrived in Brgy. Patitinan to personally visit the situation of the residents in the area.

The vice president provided aid to the landslide-affected residents.

Robredo has recommended to the local government of Sagñay the forced relocation of the residents in landslide-prone areas.

“Identify alin ba mga lugar yung hindi na talaga pwedeng patirhan at talagang pwersahin yung mga taong huwag nang bumalik,” said the vice president.

“Meron na akong resettlement area sa Brgy. Del Carmen. Inooffer ko sa kanila pero alam naman ang mga tao they don’t want change parang ito ano lang ito yung nangyari lang yung ganun pero hindi nila iniexpect na mangyayari ulit but we are trying our best  na umalis sila dito,” said Mayor Fuentebella.

The mass burial of the victims of the landslide is set on Thursday (January 3). – Allan Manansala / UNTV News and Rescue

The post Death toll in Sagñay, CamSur landslide now at 30, 16 others missing appeared first on UNTV News.

Batocabe’s eldest son Atty. Justin

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) has turned the two suspects in the murder of Ako Bicol Party list Rep. Rodel Batocabe into witnesses which the family of the slain lawmaker approved.

Batocabe’s eldest son Atty. Justin, however, said he might forgive the two suspects even the rest of the gunmen in due time, but never the mastermind.

“As for me, ang sabi ko nga halikan ko pa mga kamay nila. Ituro lang nila ang mastermind. Iyon ang importante ang mastermind. Maybe siguro time will tell baka mapatawad ko pa iyong mismong gunmen. Maybe. Pero iyong mastermind ibang usapan na iyon,” Atty. Justin said.

The Batocabes also approves giving the reward money to the two surrenderers for providing the authorities the name of the mastermind in the crime.

Rep. Batocabe’s eldest son reiterated that they believe it was not the New People’s Army (NPA) who was behind his father’s killing.

He, however, refused to name the mastermind saying it is up to the PNP to reveal who ordered the assassination of his father.

“My dad has been congressman for almost 9 years now and he has gone to numerous areas and farther places of Bicol without being harassed, injured or in any case acted in violence upon by the NPA or any other leftist organization. I’d like to emphasize that one of the collateral damages, one of the lolas’ shot is actually the aunt of the local (NPA) commander so close to impossible,” he said.

As of press time, the Batocabes has not filed any charges yet against the suspects.

Meanwhile, Atty. Justin is thankful for the efforts of the PNP in solving his father’s case. –  Marje Pelayo (with reports from Lea Ylagan)

The post Rep. Batocabe’s kin approves reward for two suspects-turned-witnesses appeared first on UNTV News.

LAGUNA, Philippines – A retired Calamba policeman surrendered to authorities after shooting and killing a neighbor on Wednesday (January 2).

Retired SPO4 Ruben Lapitan shot 21-year-old Carlo Odasco who suffered multiple gunshot wounds which eventually caused his death.

According to the initial report, the suspect and the victim’s family have been in a long-standing feud.

The latest argument between the two was over the noisy muffler of the victim’s motorbike which he used during the new year revelry.

On Wednesday, the two engaged in a heated argument at a basketball court in Sitio Mangumit, Barangay Canlubang in Calamba which led to Lapitan shooting and killing Odasco.

“Kaninang alas onse po nagkaroon po sila ng another confrontation na nagresulta ng shhooting at stabbing incident,” said investigator PSInsp. Felmar Aquino.

The suspect’s daughter was also arrested after she stabbed the victim’s brother, 19 year old Charlee.

The victims’ mother, Analee, who mediated in the brawl was also injured.

The Calamba police is now verifying if the suspect used a licensed firearm in order to file appropriate charges. – Marje Pelayo (with reports from Sherwin Culubong)

The post Retired cop surrenders after shooting his neighbor in Calamba, Laguna appeared first on UNTV News.

Department of Social Welfare and Development’s relief operations in Lope de Vega, Northern Samar

SAMAR, Philippines — The Office of the Civil Defense Region 8 calls on armed groups in typhoon-hit areas in Samar to give way for humanitarian activities and for relief goods to reach the affected residents.

According to the data from the OCD-8, a total of 16 municipalities in Northern Samar; four in Samar and four in Eastern Samar were hugely affected.

“Isa iyon sa challenges natin. May mga instances noong una nga noong nag-distribute tayo. Sa ating mga kaibigan na andun sa Lope de Vega nakikiusap po kami na sana tulungan nyo po para sa relief operation ng DSWD makapasok po sila para sa ating mga kababayan po doon,” appealed information officer, Rayden Cabrigas of OCD-Region 8.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) already delivered 4,800 food packs to two hard-hit areas.

Meanwhile, the agency decided not to disclose the next date of delivery and the target destination in consideration for the safety of the relief workers.

Meanwhile, Major General Raul Farnacio of the 8^th Infantry Division, Philippine Army command encourages the members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Samar to go down and coordinate with the military in case they wanted to help in the humanitarian efforts in the affected areas.

“Hopefully may humanitarian consideration pa itong mga armadong NPA kasi nga naman more on disaster response tayo wag naman sanang maging abala itong grupo nato at maraming nasalanta tayong mga kababayan sa northern samar if ever kung gusto nilang bumaba at tumulong gusto nilang tumulong sa masa ay sumama silang magdistribute ng relief goods,” Farnacio said.

The military has mobilized two battalions for the government’s humanitarian efforts while another is placed on standby to serve as augmentation force when necessary. – Marje Pelayo (with reports from Archyl Egano)

The post Armed groups urged to give way for relief operations in Samar appeared first on UNTV News.

FILE PHOTO: Senior Citizens (UNTV News)

MANILA, Philippines – The Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) wants to uphold respect for senior citizens and prove that they are not liabilities but valuable talents in the country’s workforce.

Thus, the agency is pushing for part time jobs for the country’s elderly sector to help them earn extra income for their personal needs.

Such is the case of Laura Bagan who has been struggling to support her medications especially with the rising prices of maintenance drugs nowadays.

“Sa gamot po sa highblood ko, saka sa ubo, ngayon tumaas na,” she said.

“Nakita namin sa pag-aaral na kapag more than 60 years old ka, ang laki ng deficit mo. Pambayad sa gamot, pambayad sa operasyon o kung kailangan mong ma-ospital maaaring kulang pa ang health insurance para doon. So, magandang may part time ang senior citizens,” explained POPCOM Executive Director Juan Antonio Perez III.

The agency added that encouraging the elderly to work will also help them improve their health conditions as they can have a sort of exercise while doing a part time job.

“Maraming study na nagpapakita na ang nag-retire na talagang nag-retire (at) wala nang ginawa ay mas maaagang namamatay,” Perez noted.

Danny Mariano, the president of a group of senior citizen in Barangay San Bartolome in Quezon City supports the proposal.

“Kailangan po ng seniors, gumagalaw kasi hindi naman po pwede na ang senior ay nakahiga na lang, nagaantay na lamang ng kanilang mga biyaya. Kundi ang dapat din sa mga senior kumikilos pa rin,” Mariano said.

Aside from the part time job, Mang Danny also calls on the government to provide P500 monthly subsidy for senior citizens, noting that not all senior citizens can avail of the state insurance.

“Alam mo ang senior (citizen), marami din tayong wala namang pension. Nag senior sila dahil hindi sila nakaabot sa requirement ng SSS. saka ng GSIS kaya marami din naman talagang senior (citizens) na wala naman talagang pension,” he argued.

The POPCOM said helping the senior citizens earn from a small business will also contribute to the country’s economy as they can employ others as well.

This year, the country’s elderly population is projected to increase by 8.2% or may reach 8.9 million.

Thus, the government is urged to create sustainable programs for them.

Based on the agency’s study, life expectancy nowadays has now reached 72 years for Filipino women while Filipino men may reach a maximum age of 67.

The agency concludes, women live longer than men because men are more likely to engage in vices and hard labor. – Marje Pelayo (with reports from Rey Pelayo)

The post POPCOM pushes part time jobs for senior citizens appeared first on UNTV News.

Rescue operation in landslide site in Sagñay, Camarines Sur

MANILA, Philippines —The number of fatalities from the wrath of Tropical Depression Usman has increased.

Based on the latest records of National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), there are 122 casualties from MIMAROPA, Region 5 and Region 8.

Authorities are still searching for 28 missing individuals while 60 others were injured.

The total cost of agriculture damage in Region 5 and Region 8 has reached P500,000 billion. — UNTV News & Rescue

The post Death toll from TD Usman reaches 122 appeared first on UNTV News.

Kuya Daniel Razon during UNTV Repaso 2017 | PVI

MANILA, Philippines – Since 2010, the UNTV has been deploying its News and Rescue teams across the country to respond to emergency situations such as firecracker-related cases in line with the celebration of the coming of the new year.

Aside from helping others in need, the station has been consistent in encouraging the public to refrain from purchasing and using firecrackers.

“Kasi may ibang mga lugar, pinagmamagaling pa nila na gumagastos sila ng let’s say something like US$200,000. Gagastos ka halimbawa ng US$100,000. Magkano na iyon sa peso?” noted UNTV’s CEO, Kuya Daniel Razon.

“Anong ibig sabihin? Maraming nagugutom. Maraming mga hindi kumakain. Maraming nao-ospital na walang pampagamot. Maraming nangangailangan na pampa-dialysis. Maraming mga nangangailangan na makikita mo sa kalye na wala silang anoman (na) pinaputok lang naman natin,” he added.

Kuya Daniel addressing the UNTV News and Rescue teams before deployment for Repaso 2018

Kuya Daniel cited as an example the ordinance in Davao City which totally bans firecrackers and has yielded commendable results.

“Hindi ba sa Davao, may total ban sila diyan na ginagawa? Ang sa atin kasi dapat ang pagpapaputok ng firecrackers, dapat iyan ang nage-execute, kung may i-a-allow man halimbawa…Gusto nila magpa-install, magpalagay. Kung may i-a-allow man iyong may technical know-how na nagse-set up talaga. Hindi dapat i-allow ang nagpapaputok ka ng solo-solo o whatever. Hindi,” Kuya Daniel explained.

UNTV News and Rescue Team in action

Several measures are now being pushed in Congress seeking to totally ban or impose stringent policies on the use of firecrackers on a nationwide scope.

These include the bill filed by Senator Nancy Binay which seeks to impose higher fines and imprisonment as punishments for selling firecrackers to minors.

Senate President Vicente Sotto II and Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, meanwhile, are pushing to require a special permit from the Philippine National Police (PNP) to those who wish to use firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices only at designated venues.

PNP Spokesperson Benigno Durana Jr, said the PNP is ready to impose new regulations on firecracker use provided that “majority of the stakeholders, after due consultations, would agree to it and it will become a law or policy.”

“We will abide and enforce it,” Durana said.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, for his part, said the Department of Health (DOH) is contemplating to recommend to President Rodrigo Duterte to impose a nationwide total ban on firecrackers in the country.

“The total ban is the way to go. If Davao City has exemplified total ban and therefore zero casualty, why can’t the whole Philippines do it under the presidency of Rodrigo Duterte who was once a long-time serving mayor of Davao City?” he said.

However, Duque said, such a plan needs a thorough study considering its possible impact on the country’s firecracker industry.

“Assuming the ban gets implemented or if legislation is forthcoming to absolutely ban this. We cannot be reckless. We have to be very clear: What will be the alternative livelihood programs for people who will be displaced because of the ban?” Duque argued.

But Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Malacañang still has several considerations to address that’s why it has not decided on whether or not to impose a nationwide total ban on firecrackers.

“Kasi marami ring involved. Maraming mawawalan ng trabaho. Binabalanse niya pero ayaw niya talaga ng firecracker,” Panelo said referring to the President.

“Marami ring natakot na huhulihin sila. Kasi nuon, hindi strict ang enforcement. Siempre iba na ang panahon ngayon,” Panelo concluded.

In 2017, President Duterte issued an executive order which regulates the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices in the country. – Marje Pelayo (with reports from Nel Maribojoc)

The post UNTV advocates total firecracker ban as gov’t agencies push for its implementation appeared first on UNTV News.

Usman-hit Legazpi, Albay

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte is set to visit areas wrecked by Tropical Depression Usman in Bicol Region particularly, Camarines Sur.

The president is expected to have a command conference with the government agencies and local government units (LGUs) to personally assess the situation of the residents affected by the calamity, Malacañang said.

The palace also clarified that the president is satisfied with the preparations and response of different government agencies to the calamity.

Meanwhile, the number of casualties from the landslide following the onslaught of Usman continues to increase.

“Natural lamang na malungkot ang presidente sa panahon ng kalamidad pero ginawa naman natin  ang lahat na maging handa but there are things you cannot control, may mga dumarating na panahon na talagang magkakaroon ng mga trahedya,” said Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo. — UNTV News & Rescue

The post Duterte to visit Usman-hit Bicol Region on Friday appeared first on UNTV News.

A photograph of Daraga Mayor Carlwyn Baldo

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – Daraga Mayor Carlwyn Baldo is now facing charges of double murder and six counts of frustrated murder along with six other suspects for being the mastermind in the high-profile murder of Ako Bicol Party list Rep. Rodel Batocabe and his police aide, SPO1 Orlando Diaz.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief DG Oscar Albayalde confirmed on Thursday (January 3) that Mayor Baldo was the man behind the crime according to the testimonies of two suspects-turned-witnesses who are in their custody.

“Itong mga ito are all under the payroll of the mayor as personal staff using fictitious names. This one is a rebel returnee and all the rest are rebel returnees and CAFGU (members) and all the rest are ex-military personnel,” Albayalde said.

Based on witnesses’ accounts, it was Mayor Baldo who financed the gunmen’s firearms and getaway vehicles.

First to surface was Emmanuel Judavar who confessed his participation in the planning of the assassination of Congressman Batocabe. He, however, decided to withdraw from the plan before it is was executed. Judavar was among the two whom the PNP turned into witnesses.

Following Judavar was the second suspect-turned-witness, Christopher Naval alias ‘Tuping’, a trusted aide of Mayor Baldo, also surrendered and confessed that Mayor Baldo offered P5 million in exchange for the lawmaker’s assassination.

Naval confirmed that the Mayor gave them P250,000 to purchase a gun and a motorcycle.

After Judavar and Naval came Emmanuel Rosello alias ‘Boboy’ who also surrendered.

Rosello served as a driver of one of the getaway vehicles.

Meanwhile, the rest of the gunmen are still at large.

They have been identified as Henry Yuson alias ‘Romel’; a certain ‘Eno’; Rolando Arimado; and back-up drivers Jaywin Babor and Danilo Muella.

Albayalde said the group’s first attempt to assassinate Cong. Batocabe was in August when the lawmaker announced his bid for the local mayoralty race.

“Noong August na iyon ang plan, doon dapat sa pinupuntahan niyang radio station na naging pattern na ni dating Congressman Batocabe,” Albayalde revealed.

With this development, Albayalde ordered the cancellation of the Mayor Baldo’s License to Own and Possess Firearm (LTOPF) and Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTCFOR) and he was stripped of his police powers.

The PNP Chief also requested the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to place Mayor Baldo and the six suspects on the BI’s lookout bulletin.

Also, charges of double murder and six counts of frustrated murder have already been filed against Mayor Baldo and the six other suspects. The PNP is now awaiting the release of a warrant of arrest against them.

“We will follow what the court will say. Kung bigyan tayo ng outright na warrant of arrest, we will serve the warrant of arrest immediately,” the PNP Chief said.

Meanwhile, Cong. Batocabe’s eldest son, Atty. Justin and the rest of the Batocabe family are grateful for the efforts of the PNP on the immediate resolution of the case.

“I praise the hard work of our fine men and women in uniform. The holidays has been very hard for us and the town of Daraga as well as the province of Albay. These fruits of hard labor of our investigative bodies are very much welcome and we have nothing to say but thank you. Thank you very much,” the relieved son said.

The PNP, however, cannot consider the case as closed, according to Albayalde.

“This case, we consider it solved but not closed because some of the suspects are not yet to be arrested,” Albayalde concluded. – Marje Pelayo (with reports from Lea Ylagan)

The post Daraga Mayor Carlwyn Baldo named as mastermind in Rep. Batocabe’s slay appeared first on UNTV News.

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang is unfazed by the travel advisories released by United Kingdom and Australia to their nationals against travel to Mindanao.

This is due to a bombing incident at a mall in Cotabato City.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said that it is only normal for foreign governments to be concerned over the security of their citizens.

The palace defended that the Cotabato blast is an isolated case.

“But yun ay isolated case lang naman, so, in so far as the national defense secretary is concern, it’s very safe to travel sa Mindanao,” said Panelo. — UNTV News & Rescue

The post Palace unworried over travel advisories vs. Mindanao travel appeared first on UNTV News.

MANILA, Philippines — Three inmates in Lipa City Jail, who were caught in the act of using illegal drugs inside their cells on Tuesday (January 1) underwent inquest proceedings.

They are facing charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Act of 2002.

The inmates were identified as Warren Marasigan, Leo Dizon, and Eger Payonga, who were imprisoned due to illegal drugs.

Lipa City Jail will tighten its security for visitors after the incident.  — UNTV News & Rescue

The post 3 Lipa City Jail inmates charged for drug law violation appeared first on UNTV News.

House Speaker Gloria Arroyo

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – Just before the year 2018 ended, the Pasay City Regional Trial Court acquitted former president now House Speaker Gloria Arroyo of electoral sabotage in connection with the 2007 midterm elections.

In an order signed December 17 and made public on December 29, the court dismissed the case “for failure of the prosecution to prove the guilt of the accused Arroyo beyond reasonable doubt” of manipulating the results of the election in favor of her party mates.

 “Hindi naman kasi pupwedeng por que sinabi lang ng dating pangulo na gusto ko ang aking buong team ay manalo, gusto ko 12-0 iyan, ay instruction (na) iyon para mandaya,” explained election lawyer Atty. George Erwin Garcia.

However, according to former congressman Neri Colmenares who was a practicing election lawyer during the 2007 midterm polls, he witnessed how fraudulent the election was during that time especially in Mindanao.

Colmenares said he is not satisfied and convinced by the dismissal.

“As a lawyer, I witnessed a precinct in Maguindanao with 2,000 votes (pero) ang presinto noon 200 to 300 lang ang botante,” he revealed.

Colmenares believes such as dismissal could be a threat to the upcoming election.

“Lalo nang magiging matapang ngayon ang mga gustong mag-commit ng electoral fraud na gawin ito sa 2019 kasi ang message ditto, you can do the crime but not do the time,” Colmenares said.

Aside from the 2007 electoral sabotage case, Arroyo was also linked to the infamous ‘Hello Garci’ scandal during the 2004 elections.

Based on a recorded conversation between former Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano and a woman believed to be Arroyo, the woman asked Garcillano if she was assured of millions of votes ahead in the elections.

The recorded conversation also revealed the alleged manipulation of results during the tallying of votes in 2004 when Arroyo was running for president against the late Fernando Poe Jr.

Poe Jr. was defeated but the legitimacy of Arroyo’s presidency remained in question.

“You have stolen the presidency, not once but twice,” exclaimed Poe Jr.’s widow, actress Susan Roces.

 On June 27, 2005, Arroyo gave her famous “I am sorry” speech about the ‘Hello Garci’ wiretapping controversy. – Marje Pelayo (with reports from Grace Casin)

The post Colmenares: Rep. Arroyo’s acquittal from electoral sabotage case could jeopardize 2019 polls appeared first on UNTV News.

Daraga town Mayor Carlwyn Baldo denies orchestrating the assassination of AKO Bicol party-list Representative Rodel Batocabe.

ALBAY, Philippines — Incumbent Daraga Mayor Carlwyn Baldo has denied allegations of masterminding the killing of AKO Bicol party-list Representative Rodel Batocabe.

Mayor Baldo asserted his innocence saying he is just being used as a ‘scapegoat’ while the true perpetrators are at large.

“I assert my innocence. Let us not forget that while I am being used as a convenient scapegoat, those who are truly responsible for the crime remain free and blameless,” Baldo said in a press conference on Thursday (January 3).

“I am an easy target but that does not make me guilty of the crime. I am already being persecuted in the courts of public opinion. I am a public servant, at ang gusto ko lang naman po ay magsilbi,” he added.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) tagged Baldo as the one who orchestrated the assassination of Congressman Batocabe, from planning to financing the crime by contracting former members of the military and even his alleged personal driver, offering them P5 million to execute the killing.

Two of the suspects were turned into witnesses and confessed that it was Mayor Baldo who planned everything since Rep. Batocabe announced his plan to rival the mayor in the 2019 elections.

Mayor Baldo in his statement offered his condolences to Cong. Batocabe’s family and the family of his aide, SPO1 Orlando Diaz.

“Patuloy akong nakikiramay sa pamilya Batocabe & Diaz sa kanilang kawalan. Kahit ako gusto ko rin malaman kung sino ang totoong may kagagawan sa krimen,” he said.

“But in our quest for justice, let us avoid committing injustice,” the embattled Mayor added.

Baldo along with six other suspects were facing charges of double murder and six counts of frustrated murder for the incident. — Marje Pelayo

The post Daraga Mayor Carlwyn Baldo denies hand in Rep. Batocabe’s assassination appeared first on UNTV News.

Drug surrenderer Enrico Zamora (L); Suspect 22-year-old Nigel Nicolas (R)

QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Quezon City Police District Station 7 arrested 22-year-old Nigel Nicolas on Thursday night (January 3) in a buy-bust operation after he was caught selling high-grade marijuana on Kalantiyaw St. in Barangay Masagana, Quezon City.

Nicolas allegedly used social media to transact deals with his customers who are mostly students and call center agents working in Cubao area.

QCPD Station 7 commander Police Superintendent Giovanni Hycenth Caliao said that their operatives were able to infiltrate the group chat that the suspect uses to communicate with buyers.

“Nag-umpisa yung ating operasyon sa isang messenger group na napasok po ng ating mga operatiba na itong nakatransakyon, through online, ay ipinagsama yung ating poseur-buyer police operatives doon sa mismong pinagbibilhan ng kush na high grade marijuana,” said Caliao.
A policeman posing as a buyer arranged to meet Nicolas at a mall in Cubao. However, the suspect changed the venue to a location near his residence.

Nicolas admitted to selling marijuana which he sources from the Mountain Province.

“Na ano lang po nung mga kaibigan ko…para po buhayin yung pamilya ko extra income. Isang buwan pa lang po,” he said.

One of the suspect’s customers arrested by the police is drug surrenderer, Enrico Zamora.

“Gusto ko lang tumake… hinahanap lang po ng katawan ko, parang ganun lang po,” Zamora said.

Police recovered from the suspect four medium-sized plastic bags containing suspected marijuana; five small bags of suspected high-grade marijuana known as “kush”; a cellphone; a mountain bike, a black pouch; a P1,000 boodle money and a P500 bill used as buy-bust money. — Gerry Galicia | UNTV News & Rescue

The post Online dealer of high-grade marijuana arrested in QC appeared first on UNTV News.

MANILA, Philippines — The Meat Importers and Traders Association is confident of having alternative countries to import pork from amid the ongoing outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF).

However, they cannot assure that the prices will remain stable as they see a possible increase in the price of pork products in the world market.

“It could be offset by supplies from North America. So we have options,” assured Jesus Cham, president of Meat Importers and Traders Association.

Meanwhile, the agri group Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) argued that since there is enough supply of local pork in the market, they see no reason for the prices of pork to go up.

“Bumaba nga ang lokal live weight price from P130/kg dati naging P120/kg so wala tayong nakikitang problema,” said SINAG chairman, Rosendo So.

Amid the ASF scare, Agriculture Secretary Manny Piñol asks the public to cooperate and calls on returning vacationers and overseas Filipinos workers to refrain from bringing in pork products so as not to experience inconveniences at inspection areas and to prevent the possible effect of ASF to the country’s hog industry. — Marje Pelayo (with reports from Rey Pelayo)

The post Traders eye options for pork importation amid African Swine Fever scare appeared first on UNTV News.

Filipino designer Mak Tumang

MANILA, Philippines — Apart from her beauty, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray stood out in her gowns in the pageant.

The Filipino-Aussie beauty’s best assets and features were showcased in Filipino designer Mak Tumang pieces.

Last week, three of the stunning outfits of the country’s fourth Miss Universe were featured at a mall exhibit in Pampanga.

This includes the red hot Mayon gown she wore during her crowning moment as Miss Universe 2018; Adarna gown at the preliminaries and Sinag gown during her victory in Binibining Pilipinas.

And for the beauty of the masterpieces, the Kapampangan designer is starting to gain attention in the international scene.

He has been receiving messages and calls from other countries over design works.

“When I was in Arena in Bangkok may mga ibang countries na nagparamdam and there are other candidates and other organization from different countries are messaging me in Instagram in social media,” he said.

Filipinos, meanwhile, are proud of the designer’s success.

“Sobrang ganda kasi makikita mo na siya picture ang ganda, pero ‘pag nakita mong personal sobrang ganda lalo na nakasuot na rin ako ng gown ni Mak Tumang,” said AJ Garcia.

“Proud na proud po kami kasi Kapampanga po siya and Kapampangan po ako,” said Hearty Angele Dabu.

Though Mak was not expecting this kind of attention, he is thankful for the blessing he received.

“Parang halos lahat kilala na ‘ko, pero yung gravity ngayon ko pa lang nararamdaman talaga,” said Mark Tumang.

Tumang is planning to create a gallery for Catriona’s gowns including his other masterpieces. — Leslie Longboen | UNTV News and Rescue

The post Filipino designer Mak Tumang eyed for dressing up next Miss Universe appeared first on UNTV News.

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – One of the gunmen in the murder of Ako Bicol Party list Rep. Rodel Batocabe voluntarily yielded to authorities on Friday (January 4).

PCSupt. Amador Corpus of the PNP-CIDG confirmed that ex-Army Henry Yuson alias Rommel surrendered to the Army Headquarters in Sorsogon on Thursday (January 3).

“He is now at CIDG custody at pinoproseso na po at kinukunan ng salaysay. Of course, Henry Yuson has a standing warrant for rape and no bail recommended. Once na matapos ang proseso sa amin, he will be turned over to the court of origin,” The CIDG Director said.

Meanwhile, another suspect Jaymin Babor alias ‘Jie’ also surrendered.

Babor served as one of the back-up drivers of the gunmen’s getaway vehicles after the assassination.

Corpus admitted that the two sent surrender feelers days before they surfaced.

“Meron po ang mga iba and it’s now undertaken by joint SITG, IG and CIDG and hopefully magkaroon pa ng magandang developments,” Corpus revealed.

So far, three suspects are yet to surrender namely Rolando Arimado alias ‘RR’ who was among the gunmen; Danilo Muella alias ‘Manoy Dan’ who was considered an accessory to the crime; and Daraga Mayor Carlwyn Baldo.

Meanwhile, one of the back-up drivers Emmanuel Rosillo alias Boboy already gave his testimony to the police following his arrest on Thursday morning.

He admitted his participation in plotting the assassination of the lawmaker.

“He is now under our custody and the intelligence group at kinukunan na ng salaysay at initially admitted in being involved in the plan,” Corpus said.

The CIDG Director maintained that they did not invent the accusations against Daraga Mayor Baldo.

Naming him as the mastermind was based on the testimonies of the witnesses and the gunmen themselves, according to the PNP official. – Marje Pelayo (with reports from Lea Ylagan)

The post Gunman, back-up driver in Batocabe slay yielded to authorities appeared first on UNTV News.

MANILA, Philippines — Due to the decline in prices of food, drinks and transportation, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the inflation rate in December 2018 dropped to 5.1 percent from 6.0 percent in November 2018.

Nevertheless, it is still higher compared with the 2.9 percent inflation rate of December 2017.

Metro Manila recorded a 4.8 percent inflation rate last December from a 5.6 percent rate reported in November.

Meanwhile, areas outside Metro Manila also registered a slow increase in prices of goods and services having recorded a 5.3 percent inflation rate in December.

Based on PSA’s report, the Cordillera Administrative Region registered the slowest inflation rate while the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has the highest annual rate at 7.5 percent. — Rosalie Coz | UNTV News & Rescue

The post Inflation drops to 5.1% in December 2018 — PSA appeared first on UNTV News.

FILE PHOTO: Comelec Spokesperson Director James Jimenez

MANILA, Philippines – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) remains undecided on whether or not to place the municipality of Daraga, Albay under its control.

Comelec Spokesperson Director James Jimenez said they are still contemplating on the matter especially that new developments have come up in the murder case of Ako Bicol Party list Rep. Rodel Batocabe.

“Mahirap naman na magdesisyon tayo ngayon basing on a situation that was existing two weeks ago. Iba na pala ang sitwasyon ngayon. So again, nagiging maingat lang din,” Jimenez said.

Nevertheless, the poll body is not disregarding the recommendation of regional Comelec officials in the area to place Daraga under the agency’s watch.

Jimenez clarified, however, that part of their decision will consider the surrender of the gunmen in the Batocabe slay.

“Mayroong existing recommendation ang ating Locale Comelec so that will have to be ruled on but then again we also have to consider na nag- e-evolve din ang sitwasyon so baka kailangan din ikonsidera ng Comelec iyan,” he explained.

Based on Comelec rules, an area is placed under Comelec control in the event of intense political rivalry and violence that could jeopardize the conduct of a peaceful and orderly election.

The poll body will release its final decision on January 13, 2019 coinciding with the official start of the election period prior to the May 2019 elections.

Meanwhile, Kabayan Party list Rep. Ron Salo appeals to the Department of the Interior and Locale Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to file an urgent petition to the poll body for the prompt placement of Daraga, Albay under its control.

“Resorting to violence, and worst killing a political opponent, so as to ensure electoral victory is the highest form of savagery. It has no place in a civilized society. It is outright condemnable and the mastermind and his co-principals should be immediately made legally accountable,” Salo argued.

“This is a crucial step in attaining justice for the late Cong. Rodel and his family, as well as to the people of Daraga,” he concluded. – Marje Pelayo (with reports from Aiko Miguel)

The post Comelec weighs decision on placing Daraga, Albay under its control appeared first on UNTV News.

FILE PHOTO: Metro Rail Transit Line-3

MANILA, Philippines — Rehabilitation for Metro Rail Transit Line-3 is set to begin this month.

Included in the rehabilitation works are the overhauling of 72 light rail vehicles and repairs of rail track, power supply, signalling system, public address system and the stations’ CCTV.

Broken elevators and escalators are also set for restoration.

MRT management has ensured that the daily operations of 15 MRT trains will not be affected by the rehabilitation.

Suspension of train operations will be set on holidays if needed.

The rehabilitation will last for three years. — UNTV News & Rescue

The post MRT-3 rehab to begin this month appeared first on UNTV News.