Philippinefails

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

Residential Fires August, 2025

This is a reported list of residential fires in the Philippines for August, 2025. The Bureau of Fire Protection is on record saying the fire codes does not apply to residential areas which is why so many of them go up in flames during a fire. Being made of light materials all it takes is one spark to cause massive devastation.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/02/67-families-affected-by-fire-in-fort-bonifacio-in-taguig

A fire broke out in Barangay Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, late Friday night, August 1, affecting 67 families or 217 individuals.
In a Facebook post on Aug. 2, Barangay Fort Bonifacio said the incident occurred at Zone 1.
Firefighters raised the first alarm at 11:56 p.m. followed by a second alarm at 11:58 p.m. and third alarm at 12:01 a.m.
The blaze was put under control at 1:06 a.m. before it was put out at 2:50 a.m.
Fire stations and volunteer groups responded to the incident.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/02/residential-fire-in-isla-de-romero-quiapo

A fire broke out on Saturday noon, August 2, in a residential area at Isla de Romero, located in Quiapo, Manila.
The blaze was declared first alarm at 12:08 p.m.
The Bureau of Fire Protection said the situation escalated to a second alarm by 12:25 p.m., as flames spread through the adjacent structures.
Thick plumes of smoke became visible from key vantage points across the city, including Ayala Bridge, Jones Bridge, and Quezon Bridge near the Lawton area, drawing the attention of commuters and residents alike.
Firefighters are currently on the scene to bring the situation under control and prevent further damage.
Authorities are urging residents, pedestrians, and motorists to steer clear of the area to ensure the emergency response remains swift and unhindered.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1255702

One person died and three others were injured after a fire razed a house in this city's Barangay Oñate in Mandurriao District at about 8:55 a.m. on Saturday.
The fatality, a 75-year-old woman, was trapped on the second floor of their house.
Those injured were a 65-year-old woman who sustained second-degree burns on her nape, left arm, and head, as well as a 49-year-old man and a 12-year-old boy, who both sustained first-degree burns. The senior citizen was admitted to the Western Visayas Medical Center.
Iloilo City Fire Marshall, Fire Supt. Melanie Habawel, in a media interview, reminded the public to situate the rooms of the elderly, persons with disability, and children near the exit.
“They should not be left on their own. They have to be with an able companion to assist them in times of emergency,” she said.
The fire damaged two houses and affected two families, or five individuals.
The BFP said the fire was possibly caused by an unattended candle.
Meanwhile, the City Social Welfare and Development Office immediately provided food and non-food items to the affected families.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2090822/caloocan-fire-leaves-1-injured

A man was injured in a fire that broke out in a residential area in Caloocan City on Saturday night, according to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
In a report released Sunday morning, fire authorities said the blaze began around 10:30 p.m. along East Libis, Barangay 160.
The fire reached first alarm at 10:49 p.m. and escalated to second alarm at 11:06 p.m. It was placed under control by 11:57 p.m. and fully extinguished at 2:27 a.m. on Sunday.
The victim, a 53-year-old man, reportedly had difficulty breathing.
As of writing, the BFP has yet to release further details, including the extent of the damage.

https://www.mindanaotimes.com.ph/news/no-casualties-as-fire-razes-18-houses-in-davao-city-no-casualties/

A FIRE broke out in Barangay 8-A, Poblacion District, on Aug. 4, 2025, destroying 18 houses and affecting 21 families, or approximately 70 individuals.
Despite the extensive damage, authorities reported no casualties or injuries.
The fire, which involved a residential area spanning approximately 600 square meters, was reported at 12:34 p.m.
Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) XI firefighters responded immediately, declaring a 1st alarm at 12:35 p.m.
Responders included two teams from the BFP, three auxiliary units from Central 911 FAS, and four volunteer groups, including Green DVFB, White FCFF, Barangay 8-A, and Raven.
Firefighters successfully brought the fire under control by 12:54 p.m. and declared “fire out” at 1:33 p.m. The swift response prevented any loss of life, with officials confirming zero casualties, injuries, fatalities, or missing persons.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/02/dutertes-assist-fire-victims-in-davao-city

More than 30 families left homeless by a fire in Purok Medalla in Barangay Buhangin Proper on Friday evening, Aug. 1, received immediate aid from Davao City second district Rep. Omar Vincent Duterte and acting Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte II.
They distributed hot meals, drinking water, hygiene kits, and temporary shelters to the affected families on Saturday morning, Aug. 2.
“The Office of Congressman Omar Duterte acted without delay to ensure the victims’ immediate needs were met,” said Nel Barry Dingal, executive secretary of the Second Congressional District Office.
Dingal said the Dutertes collaborated closely with the Office of the City Mayor, the City Social Welfare and Development Office, and barangay officials to organize further assistance, including financial aid, for displaced families.
Hazel Kim Fuentes, a barangay social worker, said many of those affected nearly lost all their belongings. She added that these families are in critical need of continued support, enough for them to cope with the incident.
Arson investigators said an unattended candle is the likely cause of the fire that reportedly began in the home of a certain Feliciano Raboi.
Raboi, who attempted to flee, was injured and taken to a hospital.
Long-term recovery measures, such as housing support and livelihood restoration, are being planned through ongoing inter-agency collaboration.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/06/fire-reaches-5th-alarm-in-tondo

Three individuals were injured, while 1,500 families were affected in a massive fire that broke out on Wednesday morning, August 6, in a densely populated residential area in the vicinity of Aroma Compound along Road 10 in Barangay 105, Tondo, Manila.
The blaze sent thick plumes of smoke into the sky and triggered a swift, large-scale firefighting response.
According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), two firefighters and one civilian sustained minor burns.
The fire was first reported at 9:47 a.m. and immediately raised to the first alarm status.
Within just one minute, it escalated to the second alarm as flames spread rapidly through the area, which consisted largely of tightly packed shanties made from lightweight materials.
By 9:55 a.m., the situation had worsened, prompting a third alarm declaration.
Both the fourth and fifth alarms were declared simultaneously at 10:10 a.m., underscoring the speed and severity of the incident.
By 10:17 a.m., the BFP raised the response level to Task Force Alpha, and Task Force Bravo and Charlie at 10:57 a.m. The fire was declared under control around noon.
Firefighting units from across the Metro Manila region were mobilized due to the scale of the emergency.
Firefighters from multiple districts, along with volunteer brigades, rushed to the scene. This caused long traffic jams in the nearby streets.
As of this writing, no fatalities have been reported.
The Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development worked to evacuate residents as they flee their homes, carrying children, elderly family members, and a few salvaged possessions.
The local units have also set up temporary evacuation centers and prepared relief assistance.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Authorities have urged residents to stay clear of the area to allow emergency responders to operate safely and effectively.

https://www-abs--cbn-com.translate.goog/news/regions/2025/8/10/50-pamilya-apektado-35-bahay-natupok-sa-sunog-sa-cavite-0828?_x_tr_sl=tl&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_hist=true

50 families or 100 individuals were affected by a fire that broke out in a residential area in Barangay Talaba II, Bacoor, Cavite, past 8 p.m. on Saturday, August 9.
According to the Bureau of Fire Protection Bacoor, 35 houses were burned.
The fire reached second alarm where 12 BFP fire trucks and 35 fire volunteers responded.
No injuries or fatalities were reported in the incident.
The fire, which was declared out at 9:53 p.m., caused damage worth P375,000.
The BFP Bacoor is still investigating the cause of the fire.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/955386/fires-break-out-in-residential-areas-in-qc-and-taguig/story/

Two fires broke out in Metro Manila on Sunday morning, one in Quezon City and the other in Taguig City.
The fire incident in Quezon City affected a house at Dioquino Compound in Barangay Dioquino Zobel in Project 4, near 20th Avenue, according to a report by Carlo Mateo on Super Radyo dzBB.
According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire started before 5 a.m.
According to a resident of the affected house, he was asleep on the second floor but woke up to the smell of smoke. He then went down to the first floor and saw the fire which was already getting bigger.
The resident then woke his parents up then they all exited the burning house. He sustained a minor injury, a burn on his hand.
They were not able to save any belongings.
The house's second floor, which was made of wood, collapsed as it burned down.
The BFP said the fire was placed under control at 5:04 a.m., then fire out was declared at 5:24 a.m.
Meanwhile, in Taguig City, a fire broke out at 6:52 a.m. at a house in Barangay Calzada-Tipas, according to Mao dela Cruz's report on Super Radyo dzBB.
The fire was at first alarm when the BFP declared fire out at 7:24 a.m.
No one was hurt in the fire incident.
Investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/955026/78-year-old-senior-citizen-dies-after-being-trapped-in-qc-house-fire/story/

A 78-year-old senior citizen died after a fire broke out in her house in Quezon City.
According to a “24 Oras” report on Wednesday, the senior citizen was trapped in her burning four-story house along Scout Rallos Street.
The blaze began at 4 p.m. and reached the second alarm.
Firefighters took one hour to extinguish the blaze.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2095162/fire-razes-14-houses-in-calbayog-city

A late afternoon fire swept through a barangay in Calbayog City, Samar, on Tuesday, destroying 10 houses and damaging four others, according to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).
The blaze, which started at around 4 p.m., displaced 45 individuals from 14 households at Purok 7, Barangay Hamorawon in Calbayog City, and caused an estimated P321,000 in damage.
Most of the affected houses were made of light materials, allowing the fire to spread rapidly.
Reports from the Calbayog City Fire Office indicated that the blaze may have started in the house of Genesis Fortaleza, who was not home at the time, and was likely caused by faulty electrical wiring. The Bureau of Fire Protection is conducting further investigation.
The fire, which reached second alarm, was declared under control at 4:48 p.m., with firefighters from the neighboring town of Santa Margarita assisting in the response. No fatalities or serious injuries were reported.
Mayor Raymund Uy immediately directed the CSWDO to distribute family food packs to affected households. Some victims are temporarily staying at the barangay hall, while others have sought shelter with relatives.
“In this trying time, the bayanihan spirit is evident as family members, neighbors, barangay officials, and the city government work together to help those affected,” the city government said in a statement.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/14/paranaque-fire-leaves-150-families-homeless

A total of 150 families or 450 individuals were rendered homeless after a fire broke out in Barangay San Dionisio, Parañaque City, on Thursday morning, August 14.
According to SFO2 Giovanni Corbes, arson investigator of the Parañaque City Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the blaze hit a two-story house located at 34 B Lumbus St., Phase I, Barangay San Dionisio.
Corbes said the fire started on the second floor, which was occupied by Elmer Cochesa, at around 8:35 a.m.
He said 50 houses were destroyed. No one was reported injured.
The fire was extinguished at around 11:35 a.m.
The BFP said the fire damage was placed at P190,000.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/16/21-families-affected-by-fire-in-muntinlupa

A fire hit a residential area in Barangay Buli, Muntinlupa on Aug 16, affecting 21 families or 81 individuals, the Muntinlupa City government said.
The fire started at about 3:53 a.m. in a house on Espeleta Street Onsite in the barangay. Firefighters raised the first alarm at 3:59 a.m. before the blaze was put under control at 4:34 a.m. and extinguished at 5:28 a.m.
Mayor Ruffy Biazon and Rep. Jaime Fresnedi went to the area. Biazon ordered the city government offices to provide assistance to the families.
The Muntinlupa Social Services Department conducted an assessment to determine the number of affected families.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/18/fire-hits-homes-in-caloocan-city

A fire broke out at a residential area in Libis Espina, Barangay 14, Caloocan City, on Monday, Aug. 18.
According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire started at 2:46 p.m., and reached the second alarm at 2:52 p.m.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/20/fire-hits-houses-in-pasay-city

A fire hit a residential area in Chapel Road, Barangay 191 in Pasay City, on Wednesday morning, August 20.

According to SFO1 Rezmond Germino of the Pasay City Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the blaze that started at 10:40 a.m. was placed under control at 11:06 a.m.

Germino said seven BFP fire trucks and one ambulance immediately responded to control the fire.

He said the fire was declared out at around 11:28 a.m. and as of this writing, firefighters are still determining the cause of the fire and the number of affected houses, including families that were rendered homeless.

The BFP is also determining possible casualties and the estimated damage to properties caused by the fire.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/20/1-hurt-56-individuals-homeless-in-lucena-city-fire

One person was injured and 56 individuals were homeless in a fire on Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 19, in Purok Bagong Paraiso, Barangay 4, this city.
The fire started at about 3 p.m. and reached the second alarm.

The Bureau of Fire Protection declared the fire under control at 4:40 p.m.

Damage to property was pegged at P1.2 million.

Ten houses burned were made of light materials.

Fire victims were temporarily sheltered at the evacuation center.

Arson investigators have yet to determine the cause of the fire.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/28/house-gutted-in-paco-manila-fire

A Fire destroyed a house on Agoncilio Street in Paco, Manila, on Thursday afternoon, Aug. 28, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said.
According to the BFP, the fire started at 4:25 p.m. and was extinguished at 4:58 p.m.
No one was reported hurt in the incident.
Arson investigators are still determining the cause of the fire and cost of damage to property.

That is 18 reported incidents for August. Remember, these are only the major fires reported in the national media. Residential fires are up all across the nation and they do not all make the news. This is the tip of the iceberg concerning the real situation in the Philippines.

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Insurgency: Relentlessly Puruse NPA Remnants

On Negros Island there are no more active NPA guerrilla fronts. There are only a few remnants. The Army is pursuing them relentlessly to make them miserable and give up.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1257472

The commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) of the Philippine Army has warned of a stringent crackdown against the remnants of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Negros Island in the pursuit of peace.
Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, in an interview late Wednesday afternoon, said that while there are no longer active NPA guerrilla fronts in Negros, the remnants are still trying to survive and fight the government.
Samson said they are relentlessly putting pressure on the NPA remnants to push them to return to the fold of the law.
“We are making their lives miserable in the mountains to make them realize that fighting the government with arms is futile and useless,” he said.
Samson said they do not want to see more clashes occur between government troops and the NPA rebels and to avoid casualties “because we are fellow Filipinos.”
He, however, warned that they are ready to respond anytime if the NPA remnants persist in their armed struggle against the government.
The 3ID covers Western and Central Visayas and the Negros Island regions.
Meanwhile, Samson said there would be no immediate pullout of troops from areas cleared of the insurgency, even as the military is transitioning to providing external security.
The military will only totally pull out from an area when the Philippine National Police is ready to take over the role in internal security, he added.
Samson presided over the change of command of the 302nd Infantry Brigade in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental from outgoing commander Brig. Gen. Joey Escanillas to Brig. Gen. Jason Jumawan.

It's interesting that they say "there would be no immediate pullout of troops from areas cleared of the insurgency." It's almsot like the insurgency is still a threat. Of course their explanation is they "will only totally pull out from an area when the Philippine National Police is ready to take over the role in internal security." What does that say about the PNP except they are incompetent?

The success of these operations against the NPA in Northern Samar are due to the cooperation of locals.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1257578

The Philippine Army (PA) on Friday thanked villagers in Northern Samar for providing information that led to the recent neutralization of two members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the PA’s 8th Infantry Division (8ID), emphasized the role of community support in the success of the operation in Northern Samar, considered the last bastion of insurgency in Eastern Visayas.
"This successful operation against the remnants of the EVRPC (Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee) following the two successive encounters in Northern Samar is a testament to the unwavering commitment and unyielding dedication of the 8ID and the vital cooperation of the people of Northern Samar," Orio said in a statement.
"The neutralization of these rebels brings us closer to our goal of ending local communist armed conflict in the region."
Orio was referring to the two NPA combatants who were killed in a brief but intense armed encounter in the upland San Jose village in Mapanas, Northern Samar, on Aug. 27.
Soldiers seized from the clash site two M16 rifles, hundreds of M14 ammunition, five long magazines, and other war materiel.
The military is currently conducting cross-investigation to determine the true identities of the two slain rebels.
One of them was initially identified as Motaw Ortazo, alias “Ibaro,” of Magsaysay village in Mapanas, Northern Samar, while the identity of the other rebel is still being confirmed by the authorities.
The encounter transpired during a focused military operation in response to reports from concerned residents about the presence of armed individuals conducting extortion activities in the upland communities of Mapanas town.
Brig. Gen. Carmelito Pangatungan, commander of the 803rd Infantry Brigade, said the sustained deep partnership of the military and the local communities paved the way for the successful operation and, in return, would help foil the resurgence of the NPA in the communities.
“We call upon all the people of Northern Samar to unite with us in preserving peace and promoting development. Together, we will end local armed conflict and build a brighter, safer future for the people of Northern Samar,” Pangatungan said.
Lt. Col. Francis Rosales, commander of the Army’s 78th Infantry Battalion, hailed his troops’ determination and attributed the operational success to the cooperation of the residents.
“This series of victories proves that the NPA Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee is on its last breath in Northern Samar. The recent encounter has yielded another major downfall to their already crumbling organization. I assure the people of our sustained operational momentum, as we will strike without pause until our communities are completely free from their influence,” Rosales said in a separate statement.
This operational success adds to the series of serious defeats dealt upon the EVRPC in less than a month following the decisive blow in San Isidro village, Las Navas, Northern Samar, on July 31, 2025, where eight rebels were killed and 10 high-powered firearms were seized.

Meanwhile all throughout the nation the Army and the NPA continue to clash. In Iloilo one soldier was killed and one was injured in a clash.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1257322

A series of encounters between government forces and remnants of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Tapaz, Capiz, on Monday left one member of the Philippine Army’s 12th Infantry Battalion (12IB) of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) dead and another injured.
A statement released by the 3ID on Tuesday said Sergeant Jhon Ray Coopera was killed in action after sustaining a fatal gunshot wound on his lower abdomen during the second encounter at Barangay Agpalali around 10:28 a.m.
Meanwhile, another sergeant who was wounded in action is now in stable condition in a hospital.
The first encounter happened around 7:45 a.m. in the same barangay against around 10 remnants of the dismantled Central Front and Regional Sentro de Grabidad, Komiteng Rehiyon–Panay (KR-P) of the New People’s Army.
Government troops were on pursuit operations following a series of clashes in the tri-boundary of Barangays Agpalali, Artuz, and Tabon in Tapaz on Aug. 22.
3ID commander, Maj. Gen. Michael Samson, assured full support to the families of Coopera and the wounded soldier.
"We will provide all necessary assistance to Sergeant Coopera’s family and ensure that our wounded soldier receives the best possible care and support during his recovery. We will honor their sacrifices not only with words but also with concrete actions," Samson said as he expressed his profound respect for the courage and dedication of the slain soldier.
He added Coopera’s death will strengthen their unwavering resolve to totally eliminate the remaining CTG remnants and end their terroristic acts.
“The fight for peace continues, and we will carry Sergeant Coopera's legacy forward with steadfast determination," he said.
Meanwhile, on Aug. 22, government troops recovered five high-powered firearms, including two M14 assault rifles, an M16 assault rifle, one AK-47 assault rifle, and one Garand rifle in Barangay Agpalali.

The Army says these deaths "will strengthen their unwavering resolve to totally eliminate the remaining CTG remnants and end their terroristic acts." It just goes to show that the rebels remain a deadly threat no matter how much they are being downplayed as being irrelevant and practically non-existent.

Two rebels were killed in Northern Samar after a clash.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1257485

Two combatants of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in a brief and intense armed encounter in the upland San Jose village in Mapanas, Northern Samar, on Wednesday.
The Philippine Army reported Thursday that soldiers seized from the clash site two M16 rifles, hundreds of M14 ammunition, five long magazines, and other war materiel.
“During the firefight, government troops outmaneuvered the enemy, leaving two dead rebels behind and forcing the rest of the group to flee in disarray,” the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division said in a statement.
The government side did not sustain any injuries, while the military has yet to release the identify the slain rebels.
Initial information from the Army’s 803rd Infantry Brigade revealed that government troops had a clash with a group of 10 rebels around 4:27 p.m. on Wednesday.
The encounter transpired during a focused military operation in response to reports from concerned residents about the presence of armed individuals conducting extortion activities in the upland communities of Mapanas, according to the military report.
Northern Samar is known as a hotbed of NPA in Eastern Visayas due to its thick forests and poor road networks, making it a strategic location for the rebel group's activities.

Northern Samar remains an NPA hotbed which is why since the end of July 14 rebels have been neutralized in the region.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/29/14-npa-rebels-neutralized-15-guns-seized-in-northern-samar

The 8th Infantry Division neutralized 14 New People's Army rebels and seized 15 firearms in Northern Samar.
Major Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the 8th ID, said these operational achievements form part of their continuing campaign to end the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee, foil the resurgence of their influence in Eastern Visayas, and ensure a new era of lasting peace.
On July 31, government forces conducted two operations in Barangay San Isidro, Las Navas town targeting the regional headquarters of the EVRPC.
These clashes resulted in the deaths of eight NPA members, including four high-value individuals.
One person surrendered and 10 high-powered firearms were seized, significantly weakening the EVRPC's operational capabilities.
On Aug. 24, three NPAs surrendered to the 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion. They handed over a .45 caliber pistol and a 9mm pistol.
They said their decision was influenced by the hardships they faced and the loss of mass support for their armed struggle.
Orio said that their surrender is a significant win for peace and reflects the increasing trust the public has in the Philippine Army.
On Aug. 27, the 78th IB engaged 10 members of the Squad 2, Sub-Regional Guerrilla Unit (SRGU) Laysan in Barangay San Jose, Mapanas town.
The hour-long firefight resulted in the deaths of two communist rebels and the seizure of two M16 rifles and other equipment.
The fatalities were identified as Motaw Ortazo, alias "Ibaro," from Barangay Magsaysay, and Edwin Verano, alias "Sammy," a resident of Barangay Senonogan.
The 8th ID, in accordance with human rights and International Humanitarian Law, ensured a dignified burial for the casualties and coordinated with the local government unit of Mapanas to assist their families.
"Even as we pursue justice for the countless victims of the insurgents' atrocities, we remain steadfast in upholding human dignity. By facilitating a proper burial, we hope this also serves as a message to their comrades that there is still a chance to return to their families, abandon the armed struggle, and live peacefully," Orio added.

In Misamis Occidental the Army uncovered an NPA arms cache.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1257242

Government forces have recovered an arms cache of the communist New People's Army (NPA) in the hinterlands of Misamis Occidental, the military said Monday.
In a statement, the Army's 1st Infantry Division (1ID) said troops from the 10th Infantry Battalion dug up the hidden firearms around 1 p.m. Sunday in Tudela, Misamis Occidental.
The arms cache included two AK-47 rifles, two CZ rifles, one M16 rifle, and six AK-47 firearm clips.
The 1ID said the arms cache belongs to the remnants of the NPA's Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee operating in the province.
"With this recovery, these weapons will never again be used to harm our communities or support other NPA groups in Mindanao," the 1ID said, adding that former NPA rebels who surrendered provided information on the whereabouts of the firearms.
The arms cache was recovered a day after a communist rebel was killed in a clash with government troops in Barangay Bandara Ingod, Amai Manabilang, Lanao del Sur.
An M16 rifle was found beside the body of the slain rebel belonging to the NPA Platun Uno, Sub-Regional Committee-5.

The discovery of NPA arms caches is a regular occurrence. There will be more.

In Bukidnon a top leader surrendered.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/28/top-npa-leader-in-bukidnon-surrenders

The top New People’s Army (NPA) leader in Bukidnon province voluntarily surrendered to the police and vowed to help the government’s peace and development program.
The NPA leader, listed under the Periodic Status Report (PSR) of the Police Regional Office-10, turned himself in San Fernando town, Bukidnon on Tuesday, Aug. 26.
“He also voluntarily surrendered his high-powered firearm and live ammunition, home-made caliber 5.56 revolver pistol and four live ammunition,” PRO 10-Regional Public Information Office (RPIO) chief Police Major Joan G. Navarro said.
The 33-year-old surrenderer was a noted leader of Squad Uno, Platoon Dos of Guerilla Front Malayag of the CPP-NPA North-Central Mindanao Regional Committee, Navarro added.
The NPA leader is under the custody of the 1003rd Maneuver Company for custodial debriefing and profiling.
PRO-10 Director Police Brig. Gen. Rolindo M. Suguilon cited the surrender.
“This only shows that our intensified peace and security efforts are working,” he said. “It also reflects the growing trust of rebels in the government’s sincerity to provide them with a chance to start anew. We continue to call on the remaining members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) to lay down their arms and embrace the opportunity to live peacefully with their families.”

The surrendering of top leadership is also a frequent occurrence exposing the lie that the NPA is leaderless.

Monday, September 1, 2025

No More Hell Run By Filipinos 7: Turning A Blind Eye To Corruption

Could 2025 be the year that broke the DPWH? Probably not, but since July there has been a bright light shining on that corrupt bureaucracy because of all the recent flooding. It started with Marcos addressing the issue during his SONA.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/954016/flood-control-sona-2025-marcos/story/

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has served notice to government personnel who steal public funds, such as those for flood control projects, that they will be dealt with under the law.

"Recently, I inspected the impact of the Habagat and typhoons Crising, Dante and Emong. I see that many flood control projects are sloppy and others are just illusions," Marcos said during his fourth State of the Nation Address.

"Let's not pretend, the public knows that the projects are being scammed. There is a kickback, initiative, SOP, for the boys. So to those who conspire to steal the public funds and steal the future of our people, be ashamed of your fellow Filipinos," said the President in his speech, which received a standing ovation.

''To those who conspire to steal the public funds and steal the future of our people, be ashamed of your fellow Filipinos," said the President in his speech, which received a standing ovation. Shame on our houses that were washed away or submerged in the flood. Shame on our children who inherited the debt when you pocketed the money,'' Marcos added.

He then tasked the Department of Public Works and Highways to submit a list of flood control projects in the last three years.

The President said there will be a regional monitoring committee that will examine the projects to see their progress and if they exist.

"We will publish this list so that the public can see it," he said. "At the same time, there will be an audit and performance review of these projects to check and make sure and to know how your money was spent."

"In the next few months, the culprits that emerge from the investigation, including the complicit contractors, will be charged throughout the country. The people need to know the truth, there must be someone to answer for the great damage and corruption," he said.

The reported death toll due to the impact of Tropical Cyclones Crising, Dante, Emong, and the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat has increased to 31, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said on Monday.

In its 6 a.m. report, the NDRRMC said most of these fatalities were reported in Metro Manila with nine.

This was followed by Western Visayas with six; Calabarzon with five; Negros Island Region and Northern Mindanao with three each; two in Central Luzon; and Mimaropa, Davao Region, and Caraga with one each.

A total of 6,276,280 people or 1,751,776 families were affected by the bad weather in all regions except Eastern Visayas.

A state of calamity was declared in 192 cities and municipalities following the flooding in parts of the country triggered by rains brought by the Southwest Monsoon.

Climate action group Aksyon Klima Pilipinas earlier called on lawmakers to conduct a legislative inquiry into the status and implementation of flood control projects nationwide and their effectiveness in mitigating flooding in their respective areas.

After this speech it was as if Congress had suddenly woken up to the fact that the DPWH is the most corrupt bureaucracy in the entire Philippine government. But this has been known for years.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1798594

He said the agency’s corruption often happened during the implementation of road projects. District engineers (DE) reportedly connived with politicians, including the representatives of the Lower House.

That assessment is from March 2019 but we can dig further and see that the DPWH has always been wracked with corruption. From 2007:

https://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/2007/01/22/381277/dpwh-adopts-code-sms-stop-graft-corruption

To curb graft and corruption, the Department of Public Works and Highways reminded all its officials and employees to strictly abide by the recently approved DPWH Code of Conduct for Officials and Employees.

The agency formulated the code in support of the government's thrust to stop the practice of graft and corruption among public agencies. This is the first time that the officials and employees of a government agency themselves made their own code of conduct to follow.

DPWH is known as among the most corrupt agencies of the government. In fact, surveys conducted by the Social Weather Stations, always include DPWH in the top five list. In the 1999 and 2000 survey of the SWS, it was tagged as the most corrupt among government agencies

The DPWH wrote their own code of conduct and their employees have not even abided by it.

It's really no secret that the DPWH is the most corrupt organization in the Philippines. The real question is why this has been allowed to go on for so long? I have been writing about the DPWH for years. Here they are not paying their workers back in 2019.

https://philippinefails.blogspot.com/2019/08/dpwh-not-paying-its-workers.html

Let's not pretend that the Philippine Congress suddenly cares about corruption in the DPWH. Many of them and their friends have been on the take for years. Right now there is a lot of noise but soon that noise will die down and the DPWH will be out of the spotlight giving them more freedom to conduct business as usual. It is business as usual that has created the hell being run by Filipinos.

Sunday, August 31, 2025

The God Culture: ChatGPT Reviews The Search For King Solomon's Treasure in the Style of Aquinas

Once again I uploaded Timothy Jay Schwab's book The Search For King Solomon's Treasure to ChatGPT. I then asked ChatGPT for an analysis and review in the style of Thomas Aquinas' Summa. The benefit of this style is all the objections and contradictions to a thesis are laid out in a systematic style demonstrating why a particular conclusion is reached. It is a tried and true style of logical reasoning which allows for intellectual precision and is a great fit for analyzing the claims of Timothy Jay Schwab who is The God Culture.

ChatGPT still gives the book a negative review. Why? Because of the contents of the book. There are no misleading, slanted, or biased prompts here. The prompt was "analyze and review this book in the style of Thomas Aquinas' Summa." It did so and, based on the contents, found it lacking.

A link to the chat is here and the full review follows below.

Analyze and review this book in the style of Thomas Aquinas's Summa.

ChatGPT said:
Certainly. Here is an analysis and review of Solomon’s Treasure: The Search for King Solomon’s Gold, the Lost Isles of Gold & the Garden of Eden by Timothy Schwab and Anna Zamoranos, written in the style of Thomas Aquinas’s Summa Theologiae:
Summa Contra Ophiram
Part I: Whether the Claims of This Book Are Founded in Sound Reason?
Objection 1. It seems that the thesis of this book, namely that the Philippines is the biblical Ophir, Sheba, Havilah, and even the site of the Garden of Eden, is founded in sound reason. For the authors marshal various biblical, linguistic, archaeological, and historical sources in their favor, even citing ancient Hebrew terms, extrabiblical texts, and Greco-Roman geography.
Objection 2. Further, the authors appeal to Scripture frequently, applying the principle of sola scriptura in order to test their claims. They invoke 1 Thessalonians 5:21, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good,” and submit their work as a fulfillment of this biblical command.
Objection 3. Moreover, their research claims to correct the distortions of colonial historiography, restoring the honor and ancient significance of the Filipino people, who are said to be descendants of Shem through Joktan’s sons Ophir and Havilah.
On the contrary, it is written, “Avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain” (Titus 3:9 KJV). If the foundation be built upon speculative genealogies and confused geography, the edifice cannot stand.
I answer that, though it is praiseworthy to desire the rediscovery of historical truth and to challenge Eurocentric distortions, the method by which this book proceeds is riddled with logical fallacies, selective scholarship, and enthusiastic but unverifiable assertions. The authors rely heavily on etymological speculation (e.g., deriving Ophir from "AUPYR" and linking it to the chemical symbol for gold, “Au”), questionable interpretations of maps, and isolated historical quotations taken out of context.
Furthermore, the structure of argumentation does not follow scientific, theological, nor historical rigor, but instead adopts a polemical tone that seeks to overwhelm the reader with volume rather than clarity. It often presents extraordinary claims as if they are self-evident, without subjecting them to serious counter-argument or peer review. Assertions such as locating the Garden of Eden in the Philippines or claiming residual Hebrew in Filipino languages are put forward with a certainty that belies their speculative nature.
Reply to Objection 1. While many sources are cited, their use is often selective, and the interpretation of ancient texts—especially biblical Hebrew—is not consistent with standard linguistic methodology. The assertion that the Hebrew aleph (א) must always be rendered as “A” in transliteration, for instance, ignores the long tradition of vowel pointing and contextual phonetics.
Reply to Objection 2. Though the book appeals to Scripture, it does so with a hermeneutic that lacks ecclesial and scholarly accountability. Scripture is not a talisman to be wielded for the sake of national mythmaking but must be interpreted within the broader context of the Church’s historical understanding and the discipline of biblical studies.
Reply to Objection 3. The desire to dignify the Filipino people and to challenge colonial lies is commendable. Yet the truth must be sought in humility and with careful methodology. Replacing one myth with another does not achieve justice, but confusion.
Part II: Whether This Book Can Be Said to Contribute to Theology or History?
Objection 1. It seems that it does contribute to both theology and history, since it proposes a revisionist reading of biblical geography that may open new avenues of thought.
Objection 2. Also, the book makes use of extrabiblical texts such as the Book of Jubilees, appealing to broader traditions that may inform our understanding of early biblical narratives.
On the contrary, "For we have not followed cunningly devised fables" (2 Peter 1:16 KJV). Theology must be rooted in divine revelation rightly interpreted, and history in evidence rightly analyzed.
I answer that, this book functions more as a work of apologetical nationalism than of theology or history properly so called. While it may stimulate interest in biblical geography, its speculative and polemical style undermines its usefulness in serious academic or ecclesial discourse. The conflation of national identity with sacred geography is not new, but always fraught with dangers of idolatry, exceptionalism, and heresy. The attempt to align Filipino identity with biblical narratives—without robust evidential basis—risks turning theology into ideology.
Conclusion:
This book proposes a monumental thesis: that the Philippines is the biblical Ophir, Sheba, Havilah, and even the Garden of Eden. Yet it does not rise to the level of a demonstrative or probable argument. Like many in history who sought to locate Eden, its zeal exceeds its epistemology.
Therefore, it must be said that Solomon’s Treasure is not heretical in itself, but its method is unsound and its claims, though wrapped in Scripture, are not sustained by the weight of evidence, nor by the consensus of the Church or the academy.
Let those who read, do so with discernment.
Would you like a Thomistic response to a particular chapter or theme in the book (e.g. the claim that the Philippines is the Garden of Eden)?

You said:
Write a thomihtic response to chapters 7, 9, 10, and 13

ChatGPT said:

Certainly. Here is a Thomistic response to Chapters 7, 9, 10, and 13 of Solomon’s Treasure, written in the scholastic style of Thomas Aquinas’s Summa Theologiae:
Quaestio de Insulis Aureis: On the Claims of Ophir, Sheba, Tarshish, and Hebrew in the Philippines
Article 1. Whether the Queen of Sheba Originated from the Philippines (Chapter 7)?
Objection 1. It seems that the Queen of Sheba must have come from the Philippine Islands, for she is said to be descended from Joktan, and Ophir—Joktan’s son—is also claimed to be located in the Philippines.
Objection 2. Further, since Ophir, Sheba, and Havilah are all sons of Joktan and mentioned together in Genesis 10:29, and since the authors locate Ophir and Havilah in the Philippines, it follows that Sheba too must be there.
Objection 3. Moreover, the Queen of Sheba brought great wealth to Solomon, which aligns with the authors’ view of the Philippines as a land rich in gold, precious stones, and spices.
On the contrary, it is written, “And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train, with camels that bare spices, and very much gold, and precious stones” (1 Kings 10:2 KJV). Camels are not native to the Philippines, nor is their use consistent with ancient maritime travel from the islands of the East to Israel.
I answer that, while it is true that the Queen of Sheba's genealogy traces back to Joktan, and while Scripture connects her with immense wealth, this alone is not sufficient to identify her origin as the Philippines. Scripture does not locate Sheba geographically beyond stating her descent from Joktan. Furthermore, the logistical details in the biblical narrative—such as the use of camels and the overland approach to Jerusalem—strongly suggest an Arabian or African context, not a Southeast Asian one.
Even if one grants that Sheba was a maritime power, nothing in the biblical text necessitates an origin thousands of miles across the ocean. Rather, the traditional view associating Sheba with the Sabaeans in southern Arabia, possibly Yemen, is historically and geographically more credible.
Reply to Objection 1. Descent from Joktan does not establish geography definitively. The Table of Nations offers a genealogical framework, not a cartographic one.
Reply to Objection 2. That these figures are listed together does not imply shared geography, only shared ancestry.
Reply to Objection 3. Riches alone do not prove a geographic location. Many lands were rich in antiquity, including those closer to Israel.
Article 2. Whether the Resources Attributed to Ophir Are Uniquely Found in the Philippines (Chapter 9)?
Objection 1. It seems so, for the book claims the Philippines possesses all the necessary biblical resources—gold, silver, ivory, apes, peacocks, and almug wood.
Objection 2. Further, the authors assert that only the Philippines has all these resources in the precise combinations described in Scripture (1 Kings 10:22), thereby proving it to be Ophir.
Objection 3. Moreover, they claim to test these resources “scientifically,” comparing them to modern records and confirming their presence in the Philippines.
On the contrary, many of these resources were available across a wide swath of South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and even parts of Africa. The presence of similar fauna and flora is not conclusive proof of identification.
I answer that, while the convergence of these resources in one location may seem compelling, this alone cannot establish identity with certainty. Many of the goods mentioned—apes, peacocks, ivory—are associated with the Indian subcontinent and its trade networks. Even the famed “almug” wood is more plausibly linked to red sandalwood (Pterocarpus santalinus), native to India.
The assumption that no other region meets the biblical description fails to account for ancient maritime trade. Goods from various regions could have been consolidated in a trading hub, then delivered to Israel via a single journey. This undermines the need for a one-to-one match with any single location.
Reply to Objection 1. The resources listed are not unique to the Philippines; rather, they reflect typical trade goods of the Indian Ocean basin.
Reply to Objection 2. The matching of resources may demonstrate possibility, but not necessity.
Reply to Objection 3. Scientific cataloging must be interpreted within the broader context of ancient trade, not assumed as direct evidence of origin.
Article 3. Whether Tarshish and Ophir Are Located in the Same Region (Chapter 10)?
Objection 1. It seems so, for the authors argue that 2 Chronicles 9:21 identifies ships of Tarshish as traveling to Ophir and bringing back the same goods.
Objection 2. Further, they claim Tarshish is often confused with Spain but must be located near Ophir in the East.
Objection 3. Moreover, the book dismisses all other locations (e.g., Tartessos, Carthage, or India) and insists that Tarshish, like Ophir, can only be the Philippines.
On the contrary, the biblical usage of “ships of Tarshish” often refers not to origin but to ship type—long-range, ocean-going vessels, as indicated in 1 Kings 22:48.
I answer that, while it is true that some texts speak of Tarshish ships bringing back similar resources, it is unwarranted to conclude that Tarshish and Ophir are geographically identical or even proximate. Tarshish is mentioned in texts such as Isaiah 66:19 and Jonah 1:3 in a Western context, likely referring to Tartessos in Spain or a Phoenician outpost.
The conflation of Tarshish and Ophir disregards the semantic distinction between a ship’s type and its destination. Further, even if both were reached by Solomon’s fleet, that does not entail identical location.
Reply to Objection 1. The term “ships of Tarshish” refers to the vessel, not the place of origin or destination.
Reply to Objection 2. Tarshish is elsewhere located in the West in Scripture and early tradition.
Reply to Objection 3. The burden of proof rests on the claimant; lack of alternative explanations does not validate a speculative thesis.
Article 4. Whether Ancient Hebrew Is Preserved in Philippine Languages (Chapter 13)?
Objection 1. It seems so, for the book offers a list of Tagalog and Hebrew word similarities and claims this as linguistic evidence of Hebrew settlement in the Philippines.
Objection 2. Further, it claims these similarities cannot be coincidence, and that linguists have confirmed these parallels.
Objection 3. Moreover, the authors appeal to an ancient Hebrew diaspora following the Assyrian exile, claiming the Philippines as a forgotten destination.
On the contrary, the science of comparative linguistics requires rigorous methodology, including sound laws of phonetic change, cognate control, and historical evidence. Mere word similarity is insufficient.
I answer that, while languages do occasionally share similar-sounding words by coincidence, this does not imply common descent. The book’s method lacks linguistic rigor: it cherry-picks words, ignores false cognates, and presents no evidence of sustained syntactic or grammatical parallels between Hebrew and any Austronesian language.
Moreover, reputable linguists have not confirmed the claim. No peer-reviewed studies support Hebrew origins in Tagalog or other Philippine tongues. Assertions to the contrary are not scholarly but speculative and nationalistic.
Reply to Objection 1. Superficial word similarity is not evidence of linguistic relation.
Reply to Objection 2. No known linguist has verified the authors' claims in a recognized forum.
Reply to Objection 3. The Hebrew diaspora did not extend to Southeast Asia in any documented tradition or archaeology.
Conclusion:
The authors of Solomon’s Treasure attempt to prove extraordinary claims concerning the Queen of Sheba, Ophir, Tarshish, and Hebrew roots in the Philippines. Though their zeal is great, their proofs are insufficient. A Thomist, guided by the light of both faith and reason, must judge such claims with charitable skepticism and intellectual precision. Veritas non quaerit clamores sed lumen rationis.
Would you like the next article to tackle Chapter 16 on prophecy or Chapter 18 on the Garden of Eden?