SA ika-siyam na magkakasunod na taon, muling nasungkit ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Navotas ang “unmodified opinion” mula sa Commission on Audit (COA) na binibigyang-diin ang hindi natitinag na pangako ng lungsod sa financial transparency and accountability.

Natanggap ni Mayor John Rey Tiangco nitong Lunes ang ulat ng COA mula kay Percival Arlos, OIC-Supervising Auditor ng Navotas Auditing Unit.

Ang Navotas ay nakakuha ng “unmodified opinion” mula noong 2016, ang tanging lokal na pamahalaan sa Metro Manila na may ganoong record.

“Receiving an unmodified opinion from COA for nine consecutive years is a testament to the dedication and integrity of the entire Navotas City Government. It reflects our steadfast commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency in serving the people of Navotas,” pahayag ni Mayor Tiangco.

Binigyang-diin din niya ang kahalagahan ng pagkilalang ito sa pagbuo ng tiwala sa publiko at pagtiyak ng mga kasanayan sa mabuting pamamahala sa lahat ng antas ng pangangasiwa ng lungsod.

Samantala, nagpahayag siya ng pasasalamat sa mga opisyal at empleyado ng pamahalaang lungsod sa kanilang pagsusumikap at tunay na pangangalaga sa mga Navoteño.

We applaud the collective efforts of our dedicated department heads and employees. Their diligence ensures that every cent of our constituents’ money is accounted for and utilized effectively for their benefit,” ani Tiangco.

“We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to our fellow Navoteños for their continued support and trust in our administration,” dagdag niya.

Ang unmodified opinion ay nagpapahiwatig na ang Navotas ay patuloy na naglalahad ng kanyang financial position, financial performance, at cash flows sa isang patas at tumpak na paraan, na nakakatugon sa mahigpit na mga kinakailangan na itinakda ng COA at ng Philippine Public Sector Accounting Standards. (Richard Mesa)

Ever wondered why getting dengue again can be worse?

Dealing with dengue fever as a family is a difficult journey marked by fear, financial strain, and constant worry. Watching a loved one suffer from fever, joint pain, and exhaustion is heart-wrenching, with the uncertainty of their recovery adding to the stress. Mounting hospital bills and draining savings compound the financial burden. Additionally, the persistent fear of another family member contracting the virus from mosquitoes exacerbates the anxiety. Every mosquito bite feels like a potential threat, leading to frantic efforts to get rid of any standing water where they could breed. In the middle of it all, there is the mental toll of living under the constant shadow of dengue fever.

Dengue poses a unique challenge as it can infect individuals a multiple times, with a second infection often proving more severe due to a phenomenon known as antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE). In ADE, antibodies from a previous infection inadvertently assist a new strain of the virus in entering immune cells and replicating. Unlike diseases where immunity provides protection against reinfection, dengue’s various strains complicate the immune response. Normally, our immune systems retain memory of past infections, enabling swift responses.

Dengue has four different strains, and even though we become immune to the one we were infected with, that immunity might not last long against the other three. This means the risk of getting dengue again, especially during an outbreak, is high.

Dengue cases surge in several provinces

Dengue fever is endemic in the Philippines. The risk of transmission is highest during and immediately following the rainy season, which typically occurs May-November. Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of infection is often highest in urban and semi-urban areas.

Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in Central Visayas (Region VII), with 6,539 total cases reported in January 1 to May 25, 2024. This is compared to the 3,246 cases reported during a similar period in 2023. Bohol (2,434 cases) is the most affected, followed by Cebu (1,900 cases), Negros Oriental (1,086 cases), and Siquijor (282 cases). Local health officials urge the public and local government to prepare for the surge in dengue fever cases in the coming months by remaining vigilant, keeping surroundings clean, and clearing potential mosquito breeding sites.

The Department of Health (DOH) is vigilant against a potential surge in dengue cases with the onset of the rainy season, expected to be intensified by La Niña. DOH emphasized the importance of remaining cautious as the weather transitions.

The Importance of Personal Risk Recognition

In the fight against dengue fever, the collective efforts of governments are undeniably vital. However, the importance of personal risk recognition cannot be overstated. Individuals play a crucial role in protecting themselves and their loved ones from this mosquito-borne disease by understanding and actively addressing the factors that contribute to dengue transmission.

Personal risk recognition begins with education and awareness. By familiarizing themselves with the symptoms of dengue fever – such as high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and rash – individuals can detect the disease early and seek timely medical intervention. Early detection is key to effective treatment and can prevent the progression to severe dengue.

Another essential aspect of personal risk recognition is the identification and elimination of mosquito breeding sites. Stagnant water in containers, flowerpots, and discarded tires are common breeding grounds for mosquitoes. By regularly inspecting and removing these potential breeding sites in and around their homes, individuals can significantly reduce mosquito populations and curb the spread of dengue.

In addition to proactive measures to eliminate breeding sites, practicing preventive measures is crucial in reducing the risk of mosquito bites. This includes wearing long sleeves and pants, using mosquito repellents, and installing screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering living spaces. These simple yet effective strategies can help individuals minimize their exposure to mosquitoes, especially during peak mosquito activity periods.

Equally important is the prompt seeking of medical care upon recognizing dengue symptoms. Timely medical attention is essential for early diagnosis and appropriate management of the disease. By seeking medical care promptly, individuals can receive the necessary treatment to prevent complications and reduce the risk of severe dengue.

By understanding the importance of early symptom recognition, eliminating mosquito breeding sites, practicing preventive measures, and seeking timely medical care, individuals can empower themselves to protect against dengue and contribute to the collective effort in combating this disease.

Empowering individuals and communities through collaboration

Ongoing efforts by the government, supported by community programs, are crucial in the fight to prevent dengue. These initiatives focus on expanding educational campaigns and providing accessible tools and resources. Among these resources is “Iwas Dengue,” a dedicated platform aimed at heightening awareness about dengue fever. By enhancing educational opportunities and leveraging platforms like “Iwas Dengue,” individuals can become better equipped to recognize and mitigate dengue risks, thereby strengthening community resilience against this persistent threat.

The pressing need for collaboration and innovation is evident as we delve into the complexities of dengue infection. The first-ever Dengue Summit provides a platform to address these challenges head-on, advocating for new technologies like vaccination and innovative solutions to combat this relentless disease. It’s not just about responding to outbreaks; it’s about proactively preventing them and safeguarding communities against future threats.

The Dengue Summit aims to be an influential event. To align with United Nation’s Sustainable Goal 3, the summit is a crucial step towards a future where “Zero Dengue Deaths by 2030” becomes a reality. With over 121 medical societies joining forces under the Philippine Medical Association (PMA), alongside more than 40 private partners, this summit is a testament to the collective determination to combat dengue. The aim is clear: to strengthen the integrated efforts of national and local governments in controlling outbreaks and preventing dengue-related fatalities. The urgency of this mission cannot be overstated, especially in light of the alarming statistics showing a spike in dengue cases.

Together, through collective effort and educational initiatives, we can turn the tide against dengue, ensuring a healthier and safer future for all.

TIMBOG ang dalawang umano’y tulak ng illegal na droga, kabilang ang isang bebot matapos makuhanan ng mahigit P.2 milyong halaga ng shabu sa magkahiwalay na buy bust operation sa Caloocan at Valenzuela Cities.

Ayon kay Caloocan police chief P/Col. Paul Jady Doles, dakong alas-12:08 ng tanghali nang maaresto ng mga operatiba ng Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) sa pangunguna ni P/Lt. Restie Mables sa buy bust operation sa BMBA Compound, 3rd Avenue, Brgy 118, si alyas ‘Cecil’, 39.

Nakumpiska sa suspek ang himigi’t kumulang 11 grams ng hinihinalang shabu na may katumbas na halagang P74,800.00 at buy bust money na isang P500 bill, kasama ang anim pirasong P1,000 boodle money.

Sa Valenzuela, natimbog naman ng mga operatiba ng SDEU ng Valenzuela police sa ilalim ng pangangasiwa ni P/Lt. Joselito Suniega sa buy bust operation sa Bagumbong Road, Brgy. Bignay dakong alas-5:15 ng umaga si alyas ‘Regor’.

Sa report Lt. Suniega kay Valenzuela police chief Col. Nixon Cayaban, nakuha sa suspek ang nasa 22 grams ng hinihinalang shabu na nagkakahalaga ng P149,600, buy bust money na isang P500 bill, kasama ang walong pirasong P1,000 boodle money, P300 recovered money at cellphone.

Pinuri naman ni NPD Director P/BGen. Rizalito Gapas ang C aloocan at Valenzuela police sa kanilang matagumppay na operasyon kontra droga na nagresulta sa pagkakadakip sa mga suspek na kapwa mahaharap sa kasong paglabag sa Section 5 at 11 Article II of RA 9165 o ang Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002. (Richard Mesa)

ISANG lola na nakatala bilang top 3 most wanted person sa Leyte ang nadakip ng pulisya sa isinagawang manhunt operation sa Caloocan City, kamakalawa ng gabi.

Ani Caloocan police chief P/Col. Paul Jady Doles, nakatanggap ng impormasyon ang mga tauhan ng Sangandaan Police Sub-Station (SS4) hinggil sa kinaroroonan ng 69-anyos na lolang akusado.

Bumuo ng team ang SS4, kasama ang NDIT- RIU NCR RID-8 Tracker team CIT- Tacloban RIU8 saka nagsagawa ng manhunt operation na nagresulta sa pagkakaaresto sa lolang akusado, dakong alas-9:20 ng gabi sa Libis Nadurata, Brgy. 18.

Ang akusado ay inaresto ng pulisya sa bisa ng warrant of arrest nisyu ni Presiding Judge Irene T. Ponejos ng Tacloban City, Leyte RTC Branch 7 noong May 2, 2024, para sa paglabag sa Section 10 (A) of RA 7610, Qualified Trafficking under sec 4(A) (Child Abuse Act) in relation to section 6A(A) of RA 9208 Trafficking in persons under section 4(A) of RA 9208.

Pansamantalang nasa kustodiya ng ng Caloocan City Police Station ang akusado habang hinihintay ang pagpapalabas ng commitment order mula sa hukuman. (Richard Mesa) 

NANGAKO si Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval na ipagpapatuloy at pagbutihin ang malinaw at mahusay na paggamit ng pampublikong pondo sa pagpapatupad ng mga programa para sa pangangailangan ng mga residente matapos itong makatanggap ng “Qualified Opinion” sa Taunang Audit Report ng Commission on Audits (COA) para sa Annual Audit Report for the Calendar Year 2023.

“Ito ay patunay ng patuloy na pagbibigay ng tapat na serbisyo ng pamahalaang lungsod, sa pamumuno ni Mayor Jeannie Sandoval para sa ating mga mahal na Malabueño. Ang qualified opinion na sa atin ay ibinigay ng COA ay sumisimbulo sa ating pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan na masigurong ang ating mga programa ay naaayon sa pangangailangan ng mga mamamayan tungo sa pag-ahon ng ating lungsod,” ani City Administrator Dr. Alexander Rosete.

“Sisiguruhin po natin ang tama, maayos, at tapat na pamamahala ng pondo ng pamahalaang lungsod na nakalaan para mismo sa ating mga residente. Makakaasa po kayo na ating ipagpapatuloy at mas pagbubutihin pa ang pagbuo ng mga programa na tutulong upang mas mapabuti ang buhay ng bawat Malabueño,” dagdag niya.

Ito ay matapos ang ginawang audit ng COA, sa pangunguna ni COA NCR-LGAS Regional Director Atty. Maria Carmina Paulita B. Jugulion Pagawayan, kung saan pinuri ang lokal na pamahalaan sa paggamit nito ng mga pondo na sumusunod sa pinakamataas na pamantayan ng pananagutan at transparency sa paghahatid ng serbisyo

Sinabi ng COA na ang auditor na nagsagawa ng taunang pag-audit ay nagbigay ng kuwalipikadong opinyon sa pamahalaan ng Lungsod ng Malabon “on the fairness of the presentation of the City’s financial statements in view of the significance of the exceptions noted in the audit as stated in the Independent Auditor’s Report.”

Alinsunod sa layunin ni Mayor Jeannie na mapabuti ang kalidad ng pamumuhay sa Malabon, ang lokal na pamahalaan ay nagpatupad ng mga programa at proyekto tulad ng Malabon Ahon Blue Card at mga inisyatiba sa pabahay para mas madaling maabot ng mga Malabueño ang paghahatid ng serbisyo.

Nitong Mayo 28, namahagi ang lokal na pamahalaan ng 83,891 Malabon Ahon Blue Cards (MABC) sa mga padre de pamilya sa lungsod haban nasa 516 na pamilya na dating nakatira mapanganib na lugar ang inilipat sa St. Gregory Homes, isang in-city housing project na naglalayong magbigay ng kalidad at ligtas na mga tahanan sa mga residente.

Noong Mayo, hinirang si Mayor Jeannie bilang top performing mayor sa NCR ng RP Mission and Development Foundation Inc. matapos siyang makakuha ng 88.7 percent job performance rating sa “Boses ng Bayan” survey na isinagawa mula Marso 18-24, 2024.

Natanggap din ng lokal na pamahalaan ang Seal of Good Local Governance mula sa DILG noong 2023.

Noong 2023, nakatanggap din si Mayor Jeannie ng certificate of recommendation mula sa Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) at Enero 2023, pinuri ng ARTA ang Malabon bilang ika-13 na LGU na sumusunod sa eBOSS sa pagkakaroon ng Business One Stop Shop na ginagawa upang mas mabilis ang proseso ng negosyo. (Richard Mesa)

SUGATAN ang 26-anyos na warehouse staff matapos saksakin ng babaeng kapitbahay na kanyang nakatalo sa Navotas City, kamakalawa ng gabi.

Ginagamot sa Tondo Medical Center sanhi ng tinamong saksak sa kaliwang bahagi ng ulo ang biktimang si Jerome Cunanan, 26, ng A Santiago St., Brgy., Sipac Almacen.

Sa ulat nina PSSg Levi Salazar at PSSg Allan Navata kay Navotas police chief P/Col. Mario Cortes, dakong alas-10:20 ng gabi nang maganap ang insidente sa Alley-3 corner Santiago St., Sipac-Almacen.

Lumabas sa inisyal na imbestigasyon na naglalaro ang biktima ng darts sa nasabing lugar, kasama ang kanyang mga kapitbahay nang dumaan ang suspek na si alyas ‘Darnell’, 22, casino dealer at nagkaroon ng pagtatalo sa pagitan nilang dalawa.

Sa kainitan ng pagtatalo, nilapitan ng suspek ang biktima saka inundayan ng saksak sa ulo hanggang sa magawa niyang makalayo habang naawat naman ng mga bystander si ‘Darnell’.

Matapos ang insidente, isinugod ang biktima sa nasabing pagamutan habang naaresto naman ng rumespondeng mga tauhan ng Navotas Police Sub-Station 3 ang suspek at nakuha sa kanya ang isang fan knife. (Richard Mesa)

BUMULAGTA ang duguan at walang buhay na katawan ng 34-anyos na babae matapos barilin sa mukha ng hindi kilalang suspek sa Caloocan City, kamakalawa ng gabi.

Dead-on-the-spot sanhi ng tinamong tama ng bala sa mukha ang biktima na nakilala lang sa alyas ‘Pokwang’, 34, at residente ng Barangay 28 ng nasabing lungsod.

Nabatid na habang nakaupo umano ang biktima sa tapat ng isang bahay sa Martinez Extention, Brgy. 28, dakong alas-7:00 ng gabi nang lapitan siya ng nag-iisang salarin at agad na pinaputukan ng dalawang ulit sa mukha.

Matapos ang pamamaril, mabilis na tumakas ang salarin sa hindi matukoy na direksyon habang naiwan naman ang duguan at nakahandusay na katawan ng biktima.

Patuloy naman ang follow-up imbestigasyon ng pulisya para sa posibleng pagkakilanlan at pagkakaaresto sa suspek habang inaalam pa ang motibo sa pamamaslang. (Richard Mesa)

LAGLAG sa selda ang dalawang hinihinalang tulak ng ilegal na droga matapos matimbog ng pulisya sa isinagawang buy bust operation sa Caloocan City.

Sa ulat ng Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) kay P/Col. Paul Jady Doles, Acting Chief of Police ng Caloocan, nakatanggap sila ng impormasyon hinggil sa umano’y ilegal drug activities nina alyas ‘Totong’ at alyas ‘Dogong’ kaya ikinasa nila ang buy bust operation kontra sa mga ito.

Isang undercover pulis na nagpanggap na buyer ang nagawang makipagtransaksyon sa mga suspek at nang tanggapin nila ang marked money mula sa pulis kapalit ng isang plastic sachet ng shabu ay agad silang sinunggaban ng mga operatiba dakong ala-1:04 ng madaling araw sa Corinthians St., Brgy., 177.

Nakumpiska sa mga suspek ang humigi’t kumulang 7 grams ng hinihinalang shabu na may standard drug price value na P47,600 at buy bust money na isang P500 bill at anim pirasong P6,000 boodle money.

Nahaharap ang suspek sa kasong paglabag sa Section 5 at 11 Article II of RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002). (Richard Mesa)