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| This photo 📷, taken by RMN Tacloban, shows Japan's rice donation assisting Leyte's recovery from El Niño. |
LEYTE, Philippines - In a significant act of international solidarity, Japan has donated 300 metric tons of rice to aid disaster-stricken communities in Leyte province, Philippines. The donation comes as a lifeline to thousands of families grappling with the aftermath of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (Trami) and the adverse impacts of El Niño, which have severely disrupted livelihoods in the region.
The rice, provided under the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) framework, was officially handed over during a ceremony in Palo, Leyte, on November 27. The event underscored the enduring partnership between Japan and the Philippines, particularly in times of calamity.
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A Lifeline for Disaster-Stricken Communities
Severe Tropical Storm Kristine wreaked havoc in Eastern Visayas earlier this year, leaving a trail of destruction that displaced thousands and caused significant agricultural losses. Compounding the region’s plight is the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, which has intensified drought conditions, further straining local food security. The 300 metric tons of rice donated by Japan will serve as emergency relief for affected communities, helping to address immediate hunger while alleviating the strain on local resources.
“Japan, as an important contributor to APTERR rice in the Philippines, has consistently shown compassion and solidarity with the Filipino people during challenging times. Over the years, hundreds of tons of stockpiled rice from Japan were distributed to thousands of families through APTERR,” the Japanese Embassy in Manila stated in its announcement.
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| This photo 📷, taken by RMN Tacloban, Japan's Rice Donation Supports Leyte Recovery |
The Role of APTERR in Regional Food Security
The ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve, established in 2013, is a regional mechanism aimed at enhancing food security across Southeast Asia and East Asia. It facilitates the stockpiling and distribution of rice to member countries during emergencies, ensuring timely assistance to communities affected by natural disasters and other crises.
APTERR plays a critical role in addressing malnutrition, promoting economic development, and safeguarding food availability in disaster-prone regions like the Philippines. Japan, as one of its principal contributors, has been instrumental in bolstering the framework’s capacity to respond effectively to humanitarian needs.
The Turnover Ceremony
The turnover ceremony in Palo was marked by the presence of key representatives from Japan and the Philippines, highlighting the strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
Leading the Japanese delegation was First Secretary Akasaka Hidenori of the Japanese Embassy, who reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting disaster-affected communities in the Philippines.
The event was also attended by, Mario Andrada, Deputy Administrator of the National Food Authority (NFA), which oversees the storage and distribution of emergency rice reserves.
Diana Rose Cajipe, Undersecretary for Disaster Management of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), who emphasized the importance of the donation in mitigating food insecurity among vulnerable populations. Choomjet Karnjanakesorn, General Manager of APTERR, who lauded Japan’s generosity and proactive engagement in disaster relief efforts.
During the ceremony, local officials expressed gratitude for Japan’s unwavering support. “This donation is not just about rice; it is about hope, resilience, and the enduring friendship between our nations,” said a Leyte provincial official.
Ongoing Challenges in Leyte and Eastern Visayas
The region continues to face significant challenges in recovering from the dual impacts of Typhoon Kristine and El Niño. While international aid, such as Japan’s rice donation, provides critical relief, rebuilding lives and restoring livelihoods require sustained effort and resources.
The agricultural sector, a cornerstone of Eastern Visayas’ economy, has been particularly hard-hit. Prolonged droughts have reduced crop yields, while flooding from recent storms has damaged infrastructure and arable land. The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has estimated that the region will need billions of pesos for comprehensive rehabilitation.
Japan’s assistance through APTERR highlights the importance of regional cooperation in addressing shared challenges. The framework’s success lies in the collaborative efforts of member countries, which pool resources and expertise to respond to crises swiftly and effectively.
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| This photo 📷, taken by RMN Tacloban, depicts Japan's rice donation in support of Leyte's El Niño recovery efforts. |
This donation is part of Japan’s broader commitment to disaster resilience and sustainable development in the Philippines. In recent years, Japan has extended support through various initiatives, including capacity-building programs for disaster risk reduction, infrastructure development, and humanitarian assistance during major calamities like Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013.
As Leyte and other affected areas continue their journey toward recovery, the donation of 300 metric tons of rice serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of international solidarity. It underscores the vital role of partnerships in building resilient communities and ensuring no one is left behind in the face of adversity.
For now, the donated rice will help fill empty plates and provide a sense of normalcy to those most affected. Beyond the immediate relief, it stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between Japan and the Philippines—a relationship rooted in mutual respect, empathy, and a shared commitment to overcoming challenges together. - majaits.com
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| This Photo from RMN Tacloban and Police Station |
Top 3 Regional Most Wanted Person in Eastern Visayas Arrested in Caloocan City
In a significant breakthrough in the fight against criminality, the third most wanted person in Eastern Visayas, identified by the alias "Kokoy," was apprehended during a manhunt operation conducted by the Alangalang Municipal Police Station. The operation took place on Buhi Street, Caloocan City, marking a critical victory for law enforcement authorities in the region.
The successful operation stemmed from coordinated intelligence efforts, which led authorities to track down the fugitive in Metro Manila. The arrest was carried out by a specialized team from the Alangalang Municipal Police Station, under the jurisdiction of the Leyte Provincial Police Office, with the support of local police in Caloocan City.
Alias Kokoy, a resident of Barangay Cambahanon, Alangalang, Leyte, had been eluding law enforcement for years. The arrest warrant was issued by Hon. Georgina Uy Perez of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) 8 Branch 45, in connection with a charge of murder, a heinous crime punishable by reclusion perpetua (life imprisonment) under Philippine law.
Alias Kokoy was long considered a high-priority target due to his involvement in violent crimes in Eastern Visayas, particularly in Leyte. His alleged participation in a murder case made him one of the most wanted individuals in the region, prompting the police to intensify their efforts to locate and apprehend him.
Investigations revealed that Kokoy went into hiding in Metro Manila after the issuance of the warrant, attempting to evade arrest by blending into the urban environment. Despite the geographical distance from his home province, authorities diligently pursued leads that eventually resulted in his capture.
Legal Proceedings
Following his arrest, Kokoy was immediately transported to Leyte, where he is now detained at the Alangalang Municipal Police Station (MPS). He will remain in custody as he awaits further legal proceedings.
Under Philippine law, murder is classified as a non-bailable offense, which means Kokoy will not be eligible for temporary release while his case is being heard. The arrest ensures that he will face the full force of the judicial process for the crime he allegedly committed.
The apprehension of one of Eastern Visayas’ most wanted criminals underscores the commitment of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to bring perpetrators of serious crimes to justice. Alias Kokoy’s capture is a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies, whose coordination and persistence made this operation a success.
Police Regional Office 8 Director Brigadier General Alan B. Mercado praised the Alangalang MPS team for their dedication and commended their seamless collaboration with other units. “This accomplishment reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of our communities and delivering justice to the victims of crimes,” Mercado stated.
The arrest also serves as a strong message to other fugitives who continue to evade the law. It highlights the PNP’s resolve to relentlessly pursue wanted individuals, regardless of how long it takes or where they attempt to hide.
The successful apprehension of Kokoy brings a sense of relief to the residents of Alangalang, Leyte, and the surrounding areas. Local leaders expressed gratitude to the police for their efforts, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and order in the community.
The case also underscores the vital role of the public in providing timely information to authorities. Residents are encouraged to continue cooperating with law enforcement to ensure a safer environment for all.
With Kokoy now in custody, authorities are turning their attention to other high-value targets in the region. The PNP in Eastern Visayas has vowed to intensify its manhunt operations against wanted individuals, particularly those involved in violent and organized crimes.
The police force remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the rule of law, protect the public, and deliver justice to victims of crime. The arrest of one of the region's most wanted criminals is a reminder that, despite the challenges, law enforcement agencies are resolute in their pursuit of a safer and more secure society.
This recent development marks a step forward in addressing criminality in Eastern Visayas, ensuring that justice prevails, and further strengthening the trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
80-Year-Old American Man Stabbed by Brother-in-Law in Tarangnan, Samar
An unsettling domestic incident unfolded in the quiet town of Tarangnan, Samar, where an 80-year-old American man was stabbed by his brother-in-law during a heated argument. The incident occurred at 9:59 AM in Poblacion E, a residential area in the municipality, leaving residents shocked by the rare occurrence of violence in their community.
The victim, identified only as "Noel", an 80-year-old American national residing in Poblacion E, personally reported the incident to the Tarangnan Municipal Police Station despite his injuries. Authorities noted that Noel sustained a stab wound on his left arm inflicted by a sharp bamboo stick.
The suspect, identified by the alias "Manny", who is also 80 years old and a resident of the same area, is Noel’s brother-in-law. Police investigations revealed that the two men were involved in a heated argument that escalated into violence.
According to preliminary reports from the Tarangnan Municipal Police Station, the altercation began as a verbal dispute. Witnesses suggested that the argument became increasingly intense, with both parties raising their voices. It was during this altercation that Manny, reportedly overcome with anger, grabbed a sharp bamboo stick and attacked Noel. The makeshift weapon struck Noel’s arm, causing a visible wound. Despite the injury, Noel managed to walk to the police station to seek assistance and report the incident.
Upon receiving the report, police officers acted swiftly to address the situation. Noel was transported to the Tarangnan Rural Health Unit for immediate medical attention. Medical staff treated the wound and confirmed that while the injury was not life-threatening, it required professional care to prevent infection and complications.
Meanwhile, law enforcement officers located and arrested Manny at his residence. The suspect was subsequently brought to the Tarangnan Municipal Police Station, where he is currently detained pending further investigation and legal action.
Police are working to establish the exact cause of the argument between the two elderly men. While details remain unclear, early interviews suggest that long-standing family tensions may have played a role in the altercation. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of prior disputes that could have contributed to the escalation.
Tarangnan Police Chief Lieutenant Pedro Santiago commented, “We are investigating the underlying issues that led to this incident. It’s unfortunate that a family disagreement resulted in violence, particularly involving senior citizens who are expected to be sources of wisdom and calm.”
The incident has sparked conversations in Poblacion E, a typically peaceful community. Neighbors expressed disbelief over the violent confrontation, as both Noel and Manny were described as mild-mannered individuals who had lived in the area for years.
“This is something we didn’t expect to happen here,” said a local resident. “They’re both elderly, and it’s heartbreaking to see family members hurt each other like this.”
The incident has also drawn attention to the challenges of domestic disputes among elderly individuals, a topic rarely discussed but clearly significant in maintaining community harmony.
Manny faces potential charges of physical injury or frustrated homicide, depending on the outcome of the investigation and the extent of the victim’s injuries. Under Philippine law, the use of a weapon, even one as rudimentary as a bamboo stick, can aggravate the charges.
Police are preparing the case for submission to the Samar Provincial Prosecutor’s Office, which will determine the appropriate charges and legal steps moving forward.
As a foreign national, Noel’s case has attracted attention from local authorities and, potentially, the U.S. Embassy in Manila. Police have indicated that they are coordinating with relevant agencies to ensure that Noel receives the necessary support during the legal process. Noel has reportedly expressed a desire for justice but has not yet indicated whether he intends to pursue additional legal actions or seek mediation.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of conflict resolution, particularly within families. Local leaders in Tarangnan have urged residents to seek peaceful means of resolving disputes, emphasizing that violence only leads to further harm. Barangay officials have also pledged to provide support for Noel and Manny’s family, offering counseling services to help mend strained relationships and prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the investigation progresses, the case highlights the challenges of addressing domestic violence and interpersonal conflicts in rural communities. Law enforcement agencies in Samar are committed to ensuring justice is served while advocating for the prevention of similar incidents through community education and outreach programs.
For now, both Noel and Manny face the consequences of their actions—one as a victim seeking justice and the other as a suspect navigating the legal system. This tragic event underscores the importance of empathy, understanding, and the need for peaceful resolutions within families and communities.
The Tarangnan Municipal Police Station continues to appeal to the public to report any signs of domestic conflict to prevent such incidents from escalating into violence. - majaits.com