Monday, March 2, 2026

Residential Fires February, 2026

This is a reported list of residential fires in the Philippines for February, 2026. 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/2026/02/03/fire-hits-residential-building-in-sta-cruz-manila

A fire that broke out at a residential building in Sta. Cruz, Manila, on Tuesday night, Feb. 3, reached second alarm before being declared under control at 7:44 p.m., authorities said.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection, the blaze was first raised to first alarm at 7:11 p.m. and escalated to second alarm at 7:18 p.m. as firefighting operations intensified.

Numerous firefighters were immediately dispatched to the scene and worked to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby structures.

No injuries were reported as of posting, although several residents were temporarily displaced during the incident.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire and assessing the extent of the damage.


https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/02/fire-hits-residential-area-in-qc

A fire broke out in a residential area in Barangay Gulod, Novaliches, Quezon City on Monday afternoon, Feb. 2. 

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire was raised to 1st alarm at 2:17 p.m. and escalated to 2nd alarm at 2:24 p.m. 

As of this posting, firefighters are still trying to control the blaze. 

 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/04/1000-families-displaced-by-tawi-tawi-fire

About 1,000 families were displaced by a four-hour fire that hit a coastal barangay in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi province on Tuesday. 
The municipal government of Bongao has mobilized resources and sought assistance from other government agencies to support victims. 
The local government unit (LGU) of Bongao coordinated on Wednesday with the Bangsamoro Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) and the provincial government for primary relief operations. 
The Bongao Rural Health Unit has assigned personnel to address the health needs of displaced families, numbering more than 5,000 individuals, housed in two evacuation sites at the Mindanao State University (MSU) Amilbahar Gym and MSU-Integrated Laboratory School. 
“The affected families were evacuated via land and sea,” the Bongao Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDRRMO) said in a statement on Wednesday, adding that no deaths were reported. 
The Bongao MDRRMO said around 1,000 houses on stilts were totally damaged during the fire that broke out around 10 p.m. in Barangay Lamion.
The fire, fanned by strong winds, spread rapidly, engulfing the houses made of light materials.
“A number of foot bridges were also damaged by the fire, making the rescue and firefighting operations difficult,” the MDRRMO said. 
The Bongao Central Fire Station declared fire out around 2 a.m. Wednesday. Investigation continues to determine the cause of the fire and assess property damage.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/08/fire-razes-30-houses-in-valenzuela-city

Around 30 houses were destroyed by a fire that broke out in a residential area at General T. De Leon, Valenzuela City on Saturday night, Feb. 7. 

Two individuals were reported injured in the incident. 

According to Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP),  the fire was raised to 1st alarm at 11:30 p.m. and escalated to 2nd alarm at 11:33 p.m.

The blaze was declared under control at 12:19 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 8, and was extinguished at 12:57 a.m.

Affected residents are temporarily staying at the General Tiburcio De Leon barangay hall. 

Probers are now investigating the cause of the fire and property damage. 


https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/09/paco-fire-leaves-3-injured-10-families-displaced

Three people were injured while at least 10 families were affected by a fire that broke out at an apartment building along Tanque Street and United Nations Avenue in Barangay 644-A, Paco, Manila, early Monday morning, Feb. 9.

Among the injured was a firefighter who slipped and sustained injuries while responding to the incident. Two residents were also hurt during the fire.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the blaze started on the second floor of the apartment building and was raised to a first alarm around 2 a.m.

 It also said their firemen entered two adjacent commercial buildings after flames and heat began affecting their outer portions.

The interior rooms of the establishments were spared from major damage.

The fire was declared under control shortly before 3 a.m. and was fully extinguished soon after, preventing it from escalating to a higher alarm.

Some residents said they heard a loud explosion moments before smelling smoke from the fire.

Affected families were temporarily displaced as authorities conducted clearing and safety operations in the area.


https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/11/residential-fire-leaves-3-hurt-in-mandaluyong-city

Three individuals were reportedly injured following a fire that hit a residential area in Barangay Addition Hills, Mandaluyong City early Wednesday morning, Feb. 11.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the blaze on Block 34 started at around 4:39 a.m. and was raised to the second alarm at around 4:56 a.m. 

Firefighters said the fire quickly spread as the razed houses were made of light materials.

The fire was declared out at 6:40 a.m.

Authorities said three people were given immediate medical treatment, including a 28-year-old man who sustained 2nd degree burns on his upper body, a 51-year-old woman bitten by a dog, and a 24-year-old man who hurt his toe.

Arson investigators are still investigating the cause of the fire and amount of damage to property.


https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/10/malabon-govt-provides-immediate-assistance-to-maysilo-fire-affected-families

The Malabon City government extended immediate assistance to residents affected by a fire that broke out early Tuesday, Feb. 10, along Mabolo Street in Barangay Maysilo.

According to the city’s Public Information Office, affected residents were promptly evacuated and brought to the Malabon Evacuation Center.

The Malabon Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) set up tents at the evacuation site, while the City Social Welfare and Development Department (CSWDD) conducted intake and profiling of displaced families.

The City Health Office (CHO) provided initial medical assistance, while the Malabon City Action Team (MCAT) continued to assist affected residents to help ensure their safety and welfare.

Sandoval also visited the evacuation center to personally check on the condition of the evacuees and distributed lunch meals as immediate relief.

The city government said an estimated 60 to 70 houses were affected by the fire, displacing around 80 families.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the fire started at around 3:20 a.m. and reached the second alarm at 3:33 a.m. 

Firefighters extinguished the blaze at around 4:59 a.m.

BFP reported that two men were injured in the incident, with one sustaining an abrasion on the left knee and the other suffering a puncture wound on the right foot.

The local government expressed its gratitude to firefighters and volunteers who responded to the incident.

Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/12/38-lose-homes-in-bacolod-fire

A 21-year-old woman was injured and 38 residents lost their homes in a fire in Purok Magti-ayon, Barangay 10, this city, on Wednesday night, Feb. 11. 
The fire that destroyed 11 houses occurred less than a month after a blaze struck the area in January. 
Fire Insp. Jemarie Tapiru, deputy city fire marshal, said that a walk-in informant reported the incident five minutes after the fire broke out around 9:38 p.m. 
The fire originated from the house occupied by two siblings. One of them sustained a laceration on the right middle finger. 
Tapiru said the blaze was raised to second alarm at 9:45 p.m., with all units on standby.
Six houses were totally and five others were partially damaged. 
Fire out was declared at 10:05 p.m. Damage to property was P75,000. 
Tapiru said that an open flame from an unattended lighted candle was the cause of fire. She added that the house had no electricity for a month. House owners were not in their home when the fire struck. 
She advised the people to never leave their homes or sleep with lighted candles. 
Displaced residents are temporarily staying in the evacuation center, multi-purpose gymnasium, and their relatives, according to Barangay 10 Captain Melvin Bravo. 
The Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) has extended assistance, including psychological intervention, to fire victims.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/976650/fire-houses-families-caloocan-city/story/

More than 10 houses were razed by a fire that hit a residential area in Barangay 32, Caloocan City at past midnight of Monday, February 16.

According to GMA Integrated News’ James Agustin, around 20 families were affected by the fire that broke out and reached the first alarm at 12:52 a.m.

Fire fighters eventually placed the blaze under control at around 1:22 a.m. and put it out at around 1:36 a.m.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is still investigating the cause of the fire. 

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/697912/residential-fires-displace-5-families-in-minglanilla-cebu-city

At least two households and nearly 20 individuals were affected by separate fires that broke out in residential areas in Minglanilla town and Cebu City on Monday, February 16.

As of Tuesday, February 17, authorities reported that no injuries or fatalities recorded in both incidents, with firefighters managing to contain the blazes before these would spread to nearby structures.

Minglanilla fire

In Minglanilla, a fire broke out at around 4:20 p.m. on Monday at a two-storey house in Phase 2, Deca Homes, Barangay Tungkil, owned by Nilo Dugang, 62.

Local officials said fire personnel, assisted by municipal disaster response teams, brought the fire under control by 4:27 p.m. before it was finally put out by 4:35 p.m.

According to Fire Officer 1 Benjoseph Blen, fire investigator from Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Minglanilla, the blaze was confined to the upper floor of the house, sparing the lower level and preventing damage to adjacent homes. An extended family of nine individuals was affected by the fire. 

As of this writing, Blen said the family was able to remain at the ground floor of the house while clearing operations and investigation continues.

Initial estimates placed the affected area at about 7 by 6 square meters, with the cost of damage still being assessed.

Blen added that they are examining possible electrical causes and gathering information from nearby residents to determine the fire’s origin.

Moreover, the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office of Minglanilla (MSWD) provided immediate assistance to the affected family, including food packs, hygiene and kitchen kits, and butane stoves.

Cebu City fire

Later that evening, another residential fire was reported at Sitio Colo, Barangay Inayawan, Cebu City, at around 6:41 p.m.

Fire officials said a residential structure was completely destroyed, affecting three families or 10 individuals.

According to the report from the BFP Cebu City, the fire reached first alarm status but was contained within minutes. It was declared under control at 7:03 p.m. and out at 7:11 p.m. No injuries were reported.

Authorities estimated property damage at around P90,000, with investigation into the cause of the fire still underway.

Fire authorities said the prompt response in both incidents prevented injuries and further losses. 

Investigations into the causes of the two fires are ongoing, as officials continue to remind residents to observe fire safety measures, particularly in residential areas.


https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2183201/fire-razes-52-houses-in-iloilo-city

A residential fire hit Barangay Benedicto in Jaro district on Monday afternoon, damaging at least 52 houses and displacing 70 families, according to the Iloilo City Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)–Iloilo City Fire Station said the blaze broke out at 12:56 p.m. Authorities immediately raised the first and second alarms, followed by a fourth alarm at 1:16 p.m. as the fire spread across the residential area.

Firefighters declared the blaze under control at 1:50 p.m. and fully extinguished it at 2:25 p.m. The cause remained under investigation.

Initial validation by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) showed that 48 of the 52 affected houses were destroyed, while four were damaged. A total of 70 families, or 249 individuals, were also affected.

No casualties were reported, the BFP confirmed.

The city government converted the barangay’s multipurpose hall into a temporary evacuation center and set up a community kitchen to provide hot meals for displaced residents.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2183237/elderly-man-dies-in-fire-that-destroys-2-houses-in-rizal

A 76-year-old man died after a fire of still undetermined origin gutted two houses in San Mateo, Rizal, on Monday.

Police in Region 4A said the blaze broke out at 9:17 p.m. along 2nd Street, Kalayaan Zone 6, Barangay Ampid 1, and was declared under control about 30 minutes later.

Firefighters discovered the victim’s body inside one of the burned houses.

The public information office of Barangay Ampid 1 said the fire razed two homes, including the one owned by the elderly victim.

Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the cause of the blaze and assess the property damage.

Affected residents have temporarily taken shelter with relatives in the area and are receiving assistance from local social welfare workers.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/698128/cebu-city-fire-destroys-2-homes-displaces-10-people-in-brgy-tisa

Two residential structures were damaged and at least ten people were displaced after a pre-dawn fire broke out in Barangay Tisa, Cebu City on Wednesday, February 18.

The fire started at around 3:11 a.m. along Saturn Street in Tisa Hills and quickly escalated to first alarm status. 

Firefighters from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Cebu City arrived at the scene in about seven minutes and immediately contained the blaze to prevent it from spreading to nearby houses.

Fire officials said one house was completely destroyed while another sustained partial damage, with the fire affecting an estimated 250 square meters. 

The property involved was owned and occupied by Niño Nemeño, with two families or around ten individuals affected by the incident.

The fire was declared under control at around 3:35 a.m. and fully extinguished by 3:44 a.m., about half an hour after it started. No fatalities were reported.

One individual, identified as Marvin Gaco, 27, sustained first-degree burns on his right leg. He was attended to by responders at the scene.

Authorities estimated the damage caused by the fire at around P375,000 as fire investigators continue to determine the cause of the blaze.

As of this writing, affected residents are temporarily staying with relatives, while others who have alternative properties have relocated there while recovery and clearing operations continue.


https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/17/senior-citizen-dies-in-qc-residential-fire

A 62-year-old man died after being trapped inside a burning house in a residential area in Barangay Baesa, Quezon City, on Tuesday, Feb. 17. 

According to initial reports, the victim was on the third floor of the house when the fire broke out at around 5 a.m. 

He was later rescued by responders and rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. 

However, he eventually succumbed to his injuries.

Authorities said the victim sustained first-degree burns and suffered from smoke inhalation.

According to Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire escalated to the second alarm as it spread through the upper floors of the house. 

The blaze was declared under control at 6:02 a.m.

Initial investigation  indicated that the fire originated on the fourth floor of the residential structure. 

The cause of the fire and the estimated amount of damage are still under investigation.

Barangay officials reminded residents to regularly check electrical connections and ensure fire safety measures are in place to prevent similar incidents.


https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2183637/fire-destroys-7-houses-leaves-25-homeless-in-zambales

At least eight families or 25 individuals were left homeless after a fire swept through Sta. Cruz town in this province on Tuesday.

According to Nathaniel Moog, fire officer 1 at the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire was reported to their station at 1:54 p.m. and put out at 2:13 p.m, or 19 minutes later, destroying seven houses in Barangay Biay.

“The houses were made of light materials and built close to each other, and with the strong winds, the fire spread quickly,” said Moog in a phone interview.

Some of the affected residents remained at the scene, while others sought temporary shelter at the barangay hall. Luckily, no one was injured.

Moog said they were still investigating the cause of the fire, which may have been sparked by faulty electrical wiring or an unattended phone charger plugged in.


https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/22/fire-razes-15-homes-in-muntinlupa

Fire destroyed 15 houses in a residential area in Barangay Putatan, Muntinlupa on Sunday, Feb. 22. 

The Muntinlupa City Fire Station reported that the fire started at about 10:42 a.m. from a house on Camella Street, Patdu Compound in the barangay. 

The fire spread to other homes in the area, affecting about 45 families. 

The fire was put under control at 11:25 a.m. before it was extinguished at 12:03 p.m. 

The fire station estimated that the fire destroyed P125,000 worth of properties. 

The origin and cause of the fire are under investigation. 

A total of 11 fire trucks, 13 fire volunteers, four ambulances and a rescue vehicle responded to the incident. 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/25/residential-fire-in-intramuros-raised-to-2nd-alarm

A residential fire that broke out in a densely populated area known as “Maisan” at the corner of Cabildo and Anda Streets in Intramuros, Manila, remains on fourth alarm, affecting at least 300 houses and around 600 families as of the latest reports.

The fire started on Wednesday afternoon, Feb. 25, at around 5 p.m., quickly sending large plumes of smoke into the sky, which alerted residents and employees of nearby commercial establishments. 

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the fire was initially raised to a second alarm at 5:08 p.m., prompting the dispatch of additional firefighting units. As the blaze intensified, it was further elevated to fourth alarm at 5:28 p.m.

Firefighters continued to arrive and conduct suppression operations to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby structures in the densely populated community. 

Electricity in several streets was temporarily cut off to minimize hazards and allow fire trucks to operate safely.

According to residents, the fire may have been deliberately set. Witnesses alleged that a man, recently released from New Bilibid Prison, poured gasoline into one of the houses before the blaze started. 

Barangay 655 Chairman Johny Yacub confirmed that the man has already been detained by the Manila Police District (MPD) for investigation.

Many residents in the area work as stall owners and vendors at nearby talipapas, while others are workers and students, including those attending Manila High School, which is also located in Intramuros. Residents hurriedly evacuated with only essential belongings, leaving behind homes and personal items.

Authorities advised motorists and the public to avoid Victoria, Magallanes, and Cabildo streets to allow emergency vehicles and fire trucks unimpeded access.

As of posting time, the BFP reported no severe injuries or casualties, and damage assessment is ongoing. 

Investigation into the cause of the fire continues, with relief operations being coordinated by the local barangay and fire officials.


https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/27/207-families-lose-homes-in-bacolod-fire

A total of 207 families composed of 849 individuals lost their homes in a fire that destroyed 89 houses in Purok Katilingban, Barangay 39 here on Friday, Feb. 27.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Bacolod reported that 80 houses were totally and nine others were partially damaged.

The blaze destroyed P1.740 million in properties. No injuries were reported.

The Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) has extended immediate assistance to fire victims who are temporarily staying at the barangay gymnasium.

One of the victims, Marites, in a radio interview, said that it was the second time that their house was hit by fire, the first was Sept. 2014.

An emotional Marites said she failed to save anything and has appealed to Mayor Greg Gasataya for relocation.

BFP-Bacolod has yet to reveal the cause of fire which destroyed homes mostly made of light materials situated in a red zone or fire hazard area.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/701271/early-morning-fire-razes-7-houses-in-basak-lapu-lapu-city

At least seven houses were damaged in a residential fire that hit Sitio Sto. Niño in Barangay Basak, Lapu-Lapu City, around 3 a.m. on Saturday, February 28.

Firefighters from the Lapu-Lapu City Fire District and Lapu-Lapu City Rescue, along with fire volunteers, responded to the scene.

According to the Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRM), five houses were totally damaged, while two sustained partial damage.

Latest updates showed a total of 39 individuals were affected by the incident, including 19 males and 20 females. No injuries or fatalities have been reported as of writing.

As of 11 a.m., the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) had recorded 11 displaced families, consisting of eight homeowners and three sharers.

CSWDO Officer-in-Charge Shiela Baylosis told CDN Digital that seven of the displaced families are currently staying at the evacuation center set up at the Barangay Basak Gym.

The remaining families have found alternative housing while recovery and clearing operations continue.

The City Health Office is stationed at the evacuation site, providing medical checkups and medicines to those affected.

Meanwhile, the DRRM Humanitarian Assistance Response Team is preparing to distribute food packs and non-food items to the affected families.

CSWDO staff are also conducting interviews and assessments to verify the needs of those displaced by the fire.

“We are now profiling the families in preparation for financial assistance,” Baylosis said. 

She added that residents with totally damaged homes will receive ₱30,000, while those with partial damages will get ₱10,000. Sharers could get ₱8,000, subject to available funds.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/28/p10-m-lost-in-zamboanga-city-fire

Property worth P10 million and more than 10 houses were destroyed in an early morning blaze here on Saturday, Feb. 28.

The fire reportedly originated from a property owned by Bambi Hassan and quickly spread to neighboring houses.

The fire reached second alarm.

Fire trucks, water tankers, and ambulances rushed to the area. 

No casualties were reported.

The Bureau of Fire Protection is conducting an investigation while the City Social Welfare and Development Office has provided initial assistance and is conducting profiling of affected families. 

That is 21 reported incidents for February. 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. 

Sunday, March 1, 2026

The God Culture: What Is Faith - Biblically?

Timothy Jay Schwab who is The God Culture has been posting the definitions of what he considers to be foundational doctrines. What is the Sabbath, what is Israel, what is the Gospel? But in this article I shall dissect his definition of faith. 


What Is Faith?

FOUNDATIONS
What Is Faith—Biblically?
Faith in Scripture is not optimism, emotion, or mental agreement.
Biblical faith is trust proven by obedience.

The debate of faith versus works is one that has raged since the time of Christ. But Tim is the only person I know who has defined faith AS works! For Tim faith isn't just trust, it is trust proven by obedience. Trust in what? He does not say. Obedience to what? Well, Tim is very adamant in his teachings it is obedience to the law.  

From the beginning, faith was never defined by words alone.
Genesis 15:6 (KJV)
And he believed in Yahuah; and he counted it to him for righteousness.
Abram’s faith was credited as righteousness before Sinai, before Israel, and before any national identity. Faith was already covenantal—anchored in trust and submission to Yahuah. 
The prophets affirmed the same definition:
Habakkuk 2:4 (KJV)
The just shall live by his faith.
Faith is not static belief.
It is something one lives.

Now, this may seem orthodox but it is not. Tim does not actually believe faith makes anyone righteous. Abraham was righteous because he kept the law. 

16:44 Abraham kept the law and the sabbath. And so did Isaac and Jacob.  I mean how can they be called righteous if there was no law by which they could be judged as righteous? The very notion is ridiculous from the start.

Sabbath Series: Introduction Commentary Only

What law you might ask? Why the very law which came 430 years after the promise given to Abraham (Galatians 3:17) and was revealed on Sinai to Moses. Tim gets this doctrine from Jubilees which says the patriarchs kept that same law before it was revealed. In fact, the law is what redeems us!
19:30 So this is another example that we aren't to just have faith in Yahusha. That’s not enough. That’s not it.  No, no, no, no. We are to keep His commandments.
Sabbath Series: Part 5: The End Times Sabbath
40:11 The law is what redeems us.
The Law of Sin and Death. What is it? NOT The Law of Moses! WHAT DID PAUL SAY?"
So, any notion of faith Tim has necessarily includes law keeping.  
Scripture then defines faith clearly—not as imagination, but as confidence that results in action:
Hebrews 11:1 (KJV)
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Hebrews 11 does not praise belief without action. Every example acts, obeys, builds, leaves, offers, or endures. Faith is demonstrated by movement in alignment with Yahuah’s will.
James makes this unmistakable:
James 2:17 (KJV)
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
Biblically, works do not replace faith—they reveal it. Obedience does not compete with faith—it confirms it.
Faith is action affirmed in Paul (whom James never rebuked but agreed) who said:
Ephesians 2:10 (KJV)
Created in Yahusha unto good works... that we should walk in them (act).
James 2:17 (KJV)
But faith which worketh by love.
Paul. James and all the Apostles agreed on this.
Yahusha taught the same reality:
John 5:19 (KJV)
The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do…
Faith follows.
Faith listens.
Faith obeys.
The Biblical Conclusion
Faith is not intellectual assent.
Faith is not inherited.
Faith is not claimed by title, nor by saying a prayer alone.
Faith is covenant trust expressed through obedience.

This section is not much different from the Roman Catholics or the Eastern Orthodox who teach that faith is best defined as faithfulness which is expressed through works. All three (Tim, the RC, and the EO) make the category error of confusing saving faith which justifies versus sanctification which is the natural outworking of our saving faith. I don't believe I have ever heard Tim discuss the doctrine of justification. 

Tim has not defined faith Biblically at all. More importantly he has not even discussed the OBJECT of faith which is Jesus Christ. Why would he do omit something so important? He has only discussed the results of faith, presumably in Christ. He also appears to think that anyone can exercise faith by being obedient. Has he forgotten that all men are dead in sins, objects of wrath, blinded in their minds, not seeking God, and cannot come to Jesus Christ on their own? Jesus Himself said no man can come to Him! 

John 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.

65 And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. 

No man can come to Christ except he is drawn by and it is GIVEN UNTO HIM of the Father. That is because man is dead in sins. We need to be regenerated or quickened. And then faith is GIVEN TO US. Faith is a gift, it is not a work or something we produce. 

Ephesians 2:5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Ephesians 2 is a great chapter about faith and yet Tim only cited verse 10 about good works. He has purposefully left out all the crucial information about that faith which he is attempting to define Biblically. 

Let's take a look at two documents that do define faith Biblically. The first is the Canons of Dort, Heads 3/4 Article 14. 
In this way, therefore, faith is a gift of God, not in the sense that it is offered by God for people to choose, but that it is in actual fact bestowed on them, breathed and infused into them. Nor is it a gift in the sense that God bestows only the potential to believe, but then awaits assent—the act of believing—by human choice; rather, it is a gift in the sense that God who works both willing and acting and, indeed, works all things in all people and produces in them both the will to believe and the belief itself.

https://www.crcna.org/welcome/beliefs/confessions/canons-dort#toc-the-third-and-fourth-main-points-of-doctrine

The second is Article 14 of the Westminster Confession of Faith.

1. The grace of faith, whereby the elect are enabled to believe to the saving of their souls, is the work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts, and is ordinarily wrought by the ministry of the Word, by which also, and by the administration of the sacraments, and prayer, it is increased and strengthened.

2. By this faith, a Christian believeth to be true whatsoever is revealed in the Word, for the authority of God himself speaking therein; and acteth differently upon that which each particular passage thereof containeth; yielding obedience to the commands, trembling at the threatenings, and embracing the promises of God for this life, and that which is to come. But the principal acts of saving accepting, receiving, and resting upon Christ alone for justification, sanctification, and eternal life, by virtue of the covenant of grace.

3. This faith is different in degrees, weak or strong; may be often and many ways assailed and weakened, but gets the victory; growing up in many to the attainment of a full assurance through Christ, who is both the author and finisher of our faith.

https://thewestminsterstandard.org/the-westminster-confession/#Chapter%20XIV

Both of those definitions are Biblical and say the same thing. Namely, faith is a gift worked in our hearts by the Holy Spirit. 

In his definition Tim refers to Hebrews 11. But after listing all the many great men of faith and their deeds Paul says:

Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

The WCF notes that by faith we do yield obedience but the principal acts of faith consist not in obedience but in "accepting, receiving, and resting upon Christ alone for justification, sanctification, and eternal life, by virtue of the covenant of grace." This faith is worked in us fully by Christ who is the author and finisher of our faith.  That is a far cry from the doctrine Tim has proposed which lacks an object in which faith is to trust.

Tim's followers will of course drink his definition of faith quite gladly and even those who know him not yet stumble upon it might say amen. But Tim's doctrine of faith betrays an erroneous theology, Christology, anthropology, and soteriology. Man is dead in sins, God must regenerate him and draw Him to Christ, and the Spirit works faith in man so that he is born again and can believe in the good news Christ brings. That is the Biblical definition of faith. Tim's definition of faith, which has not Christ for its object, robs the believer of assurance because it makes salvation dependent on the quality of their own "proven obedience" rather than the finished work of Christ.

Saturday, February 28, 2026

Retards in the Government 458

 It's your weekly compendium of foolishness and corruption in the Philippine government.

 


https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/21/rizal-ppo-orders-probe-on-viral-cop-caught-riding-without-safety-gear

The Rizal Police Provincial Office (Rizal PPO) has launched an investigation into a police officer who was caught on camera riding a motorcycle without wearing any protective gear, which has become viral on social media and earned the ire of netizens.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Feb. 21, Rizal PPO director Col. Eleazar Barber Jr. ordered a probe to identify the policeman as well as the details and context of the incident.

"The Rizal PPO has a clear policy regarding strict compliance with traffic laws, including the mandatory wearing of helmets in accordance with existing laws and internal regulations of the Philippine National Police," Barber said.

"If violations are proven, we will not hesitate to impose appropriate administrative sanctions in accordance with existing regulations. Our ranks are expected to be an example of discipline, integrity, and compliance with the law at all times, especially to the public," he added.

The director explained that any means of violating the law is unacceptable, especially to the police force, noting that each and every Rizal policeman is expected to be a role model of following the law and maintaining discipline.

He also urged the public to report any misconduct or incident involving members of the police force.

"The Rizal PPO remains open to feedback and will continue to serve with integrity and accountability to the people of Rizal Province," the director noted.

The Rizal Police Provincial Office has launched an investigation into a police officer who was caught on camera riding a motorcycle without wearing any protective gear.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/21/pro-9-probes-cop-for-evading-lto-checkpoint

The Police Regional Office-9 is investigating a policeman for allegedly evading a Land Transportation Office checkpoint in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur.

In a viral video circulating on social media, the police officer was flagged down by LTO personnel due to the absence of a side mirror in his motorcycle.

The police officer, however, sped away after being informed of his violation. 

In a press statement issued on Saturday, PRO-9 said they do not condone nor tolerate any act committed by personnel that violates the law or shows disrespect towards fellow law enforcers.

“Such behavior is unacceptable and runs contrary to the core values of professionalism, accountability, and integrity that the organization upholds,” the PRO-9 said.

The police officer has been identified but PRO-9 did not divulge his identity. He is currently the subject of an ongoing investigation and is facing administrative and possible criminal charges.

“We assure the public that all PRO-9 personnel are consistently reminded that obedience to the rule of law is paramount and that no one is above it, regardless of rank or position.” 

The PRO-9 asked the public to continue reporting any incidents involving violations of the law or abuse of authority by their personnel.

The Police Regional Office-9 is investigating a policeman for allegedly evading a Land Transportation Office checkpoint in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur.

The Commission on Audit (COA) has recommended the prosecution of several officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Davao City District Engineering Office (DPWH-DCDEO) and E. Gardiola Construction (EGC) based on the P14.46 million notice of disallowance (ND) it issued on a road project in 2012.

The referral was made to the Office of the Ombudsman as the COA affirmed the ND it issued against DPWH-DCDEO on the payment of P14.46 million to EGC for the project that was deemed to be substandard and yet “434.30 percent higher” than the allowable cost.

The DPWH-DCDEO contested Notice of Disallowance (ND) No. 14-007-101 dated March 24, 2014 on the payment made to EGC for the project "Rehabilitation/Improvement along Manuel Roxas Avenue, with Exception, Davao City."

In denying the appeal, the COA affirmed the alleged liability of District Engineer Lorna T. Ricardo; engineers Milagros Delos Reyes, Dwight Vincent Fernandez, Eduardo Villar, and Lilibeth Sarmiento; Emilio Sucaldito; Francisco Pilapil; and EGC for the amount of P14,466,065.82.

On the other hand, it excluded from liability engineers Gregorio Yee, Joselito Jamito, Cecilia Barrientos, Ma. Gloria G. Sorrera and Perry Neil B. Palacio; Nelson B. Luayon; Resituto D. Mira; and Rolly B. Tulayba.

"The Prosecution and Litigation Office, Legal Services Sector, this Commission, is directed to refer this case to the Office of the Ombudsman for investigation and filing of appropriate charges, if warranted, against the persons liable for the transaction," the COA said in its decision.

The 17-page decision was signed by Chairperson Gamaliel A. Cordoba and Commissioners Roland Cafe Pondoc and Mario G. Lipana.

The COA’s special audit team (SAT) said that the contract cost for the road project was P19,279,365.89, which was 434.30 percent higher than the COA allowable cost of P3,608,339.70. As a result, the COA said the contract price was considered to be excessive by P15,671,026.19.

Despite the high contract cost, the COA said its SAT discovered that the as-built plans failed to comply with the planning standards set by the DPWH as they did not indicate measurements and landmarks.

Actual inspection of the project also revealed that most rails, bolts, nuts, and washers were rusty, and the road signs and pavement studs were likewise found to be substandard, it said.

While the DPWH said that 267 sets of guardrails were installed, the SAT countered that the said guardrails were already installed even before commencement of the project.

District Engineer Ricardo filed the appeal and argued that their right to due process of law was violated as the SAT Report was only furnished to them after the issuance of the ND.

The appeal pointed out that the SAT did not conduct an exit conference prior to the issuance of the ND, and that the ND did not contain detailed computation of the disallowed amount.

The COA ruled that the appeal lacked merit. It explained that an exit conference is conducted after completion of the audit on the field wherein the auditors discuss the findings with key officials of the agency.

"It is the culminating activity of the execution phase of the audit. It is not a prerequisite for the issuance of an ND," the COA explained.

It pointed out that an ND may be issued as often as disallowances are made by the auditor to notify the agency head, the accountant, and the persons liable for the amount disallowed in the audit.

It noted that the ND was issued after hearing the arguments and justifications of the DPWH-DCDEO.

The commission affirmed the propriety of the issuance of the ND and stressed that the evidence to support overpricing is not limited to sales invoices or official receipts. It said that the findings of overpricing may be supported with canvass sheets or price quotations.

The Commission on Audit has recommended the prosecution of several officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Davao City District Engineering Office and E. Gardiola Construction  based on the P14.46 million notice of disallowance it issued on a road project in 2012.

The Sandiganbayan has affirmed its decision that convicted former Quezon City administrator Aldrin C. Cuña of graft in the P25.3-million solar power and waterproofing contract for a city building in 2019.

In its resolution issued last Feb. 19, the anti-graft court’s third division upheld its Dec. 12, 2025 decision which sentenced Cuña to six to eight years imprisonment with perpetual disqualification from holding any public office and loss of all retirement or gratuity benefits.

Cuña filed his motion for reconsideration (MR) on Jan. 5, 2026. He alleged that the court failed to appreciate that the Acceptance and Inspection Report (AIR) of the General Services Department (GSD) was the document issued by the Quezon City government that finally accepted the project from the contractor, Cygnet Energy and Power Asia Inc., and not the Acknowledgment Receipt for Equipment (ARE) and Sub-Acknowledgment Receipt for Equipment (Sub-ARE).

He also alleged that the criminal indictment only charged him on the ground of his issuance of an undated certificate of acceptance, and he was not charged for his signature in the ARE, Sub-ARE, and disbursement voucher.

The anti-graft court denied his motion. “Here, the variance between the undated Certificate of Acceptance vis-a-vis the ARE, sub-ARE, and initials in the disbursement voucher did not materially impair Cuña's right to prepare his defense," it said.

It also said that “contrary to Cuña's assertion, he was able to sufficiently defend himself, even testifying as to the validity of the ARE, sub-ARE, and his initials in the disbursement voucher."

The court stressed that Cuña should have been aware that the net-metering is a requirement under the Supply and Delivery Agreement, and he could not blame his subordinates and claim good faith when he signed the undated Certificate of Acceptance, ARE, Sub-ARE, and Disbursement Voucher.

“Cuña failed to raise any profound arguments and legal and factual basis to counteract the court's findings that he gave unwarranted benefits and advantages to Cygnet through his gross inexcusable negligence," it pointed out.

The 13-page resolution was written by Associate Justice Ronald B. Moreno with the concurrence of Chairperson Associate Justice Karl B. Miranda and Associate Justice Fritz Bryn Anthony M. Delos Santos.

While Cuña was convicted, his co-accused -- former Quezon City Mayor Herbert "Bistek" Bautista -- was acquitted of the same charge due to the failure of the prosecution to prove his guilt beyond reasonable doubt.

Bautista and Cuña were initially accused of making the full payment to Cygnet Energy and Power Asia Inc. for the Supply and Installation of Solar Power System and Waterproofing Works for Civic Center Building worth P25,342,359.25.

The prosecution said Cygnet was not entitled to the said amount due to its failure to get the Net Metering System from the Manila Electric Company which was a requirement of the Supply and Delivery Agreement.

Cuña was convicted because he signed the Acknowledgment Receipts for Equipment and initialed the disbursement voucher despite the lack of the required of Net Metering System.

The Sandiganbayan has affirmed its decision that convicted former Quezon City administrator Aldrin C. Cuña of graft in the P25.3-million solar power and waterproofing contract for a city building in 2019.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/02/24/dilg-files-charges-vs-12-bfp-officials-in-slot-for-sale-scheme

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has filed  administrative charges against 12 former and active officials of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) for their alleged involvement in the illegal recruitment and inspection irregularities.

In a statement, the DILG said those charged include pBFP personnel in Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao and Calabrzon.

The DILG noted that in BFP Region VIII, four former senior officials were charged for their alleged involvement in a slot-for-sale scheme during the 2025 Fire Officer 1 recruitment.

Reports disclosed that the applicants were allegedly required to pay between P400,000 to P800,000 in exchange for guaranteed inclusion in the final recruitment list.

“All four respondents have been placed under ninety-day preventive suspension to prevent interference and protect the integrity of the proceedings,’’ the BFP said.

Likewise, the DILG noted that six BFP Region X officials have also been formally charged for recruitment irregularities, including the approval of applicants without required medical, physical and dental clearances and the failure to properly release examination results.

“The issuance of preventive suspension orders will be resolved upon evaluation of their submitted answers,’’ the DILG added.

In BFP Region IV-A, the DILG said that two personnel were charged for alleged irregularities in fire safety inspection practices, involving violations of established inspection protocols.

The DILG also pointed out that administrative proceedings are underway against a BFP Region 1 fire officer for allegedly demanding p90,000 in exchange for facilitating a recruitment slot.

“A formal charge has been issued along with an order of preventive suspension for 90 days,’’ the DILG said.

Currently, the DILG Task Force overseeing accountability measures within the Bureau of Fire Protection has received approximately 40 complaints, 21 of which have already been referred to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) for investigation and case buildup.

The DILG reiterated that these actions form part of a sustained effort to enforce accountability, uphold merit-based recruitment, and restore public trust in the BFP.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government has filed  administrative charges against 12 former and active officials of the Bureau of Fire Protection for their alleged involvement in the illegal recruitment and inspection irregularities.

Two suspects in the shooting that wounded a councilman in Barangay Luca, Balamban last week have been arrested and have pointed to another incumbent councilman as the alleged mastermind behind the attack.

Police identified the suspects as Robert Borres Alcantara, 42, a resident of Barangay Tagbao, Cebu City, and Roger Markit Doncillo, 48, of Barangay Cabasiangan, Balamban.

The two were arrested during a hot pursuit operation on Sunday, February 22, in connection with the shooting of Renato Pacquiao Tribunalo, 54, an incumbent councilman of Barangay Luca.

Earlier reports said that on the afternoon of February 19, Tribunalo was inside his residence in Barangay Cantuod, Balamban, fixing an air-conditioning unit when he was shot in the right chest by a gunman later identified as Alcantara. The suspect allegedly fled on a motorcycle driven by Doncillo, who was waiting nearby.

Authorities were able to identify the suspects on February 21 with the help of concerned citizens who recognized them through closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage gathered during the investigation.

On February 22, police first arrested Alcantara around 5 p.m. at his residence in Barangay Tagbao, Cebu City. Two hours later, Doncillo surrendered to authorities in Barangay Lusaran, also in Cebu City.

A third individual, identified as 21-year-old John Lloyd Leyson Medio of Barangay Cabasiangan, Balamban, was also arrested for allegedly attempting to obstruct the hot pursuit operation.

In an interview over XFM Cebu 88.3, ​​Alcantara and Doncillo admitted their participation in the shooting, claiming they were promised ?30,000 for the job. Alcantara alleged that he was ordered by another incumbent councilman of Barangay Luca, whose name The Freeman withheld pending his reaction, to shoot Tribunalo. He said Doncillo accompanied him as the motorcycle driver during their escape.

According to Alcantara, they only received ?2,000 as down payment and were not paid the remaining amount because they failed to carry out the alleged instruction to kill the victim.

"We have not received anything because the work has not been completed... Dos mil (only)," Alcantara said.

He claimed that the mastermind had instructed them only to injure Tribunalo and not to kill him, although he said he did not know the reason behind it. Alcantara further alleged that the firearm used in the shooting belonged to the councilman and that he returned it after the incident.

Alcantara expressed remorse for the crime, saying it was the first time he had been hired to shoot someone. For his part, Doncillo admitted agreeing to serve as the getaway driver in exchange for money.

Balamban Mayor Amos Edwin Cabahug, who personally visited the police station, said that politics could be a possible motive behind the attack, noting the allegations made by the suspects.

Cabahug urged the councilman implicated in the foiled murder attempt to surrender and answer the accusations.

"It would be good if he would just surrender because that's what he told the suspects, he was the one who sent them," the mayor said, referring to the suspects' claim that the councilman promised them ?30,000 but paid only ?2,000 after they failed to kill Tribunalo.

Cabahug also revealed that Tribunalo is reportedly eyeing a bid for barangay captain of Luca in the November 2026 elections. He noted that the victim previously served as the first councilor of the barangay.

The mayor called on aspiring candidates in Balamban to uphold peace and fairness as the barangay elections approach.

"I wished for the chance to run in politics so that such an event would not happen here in Balamban where we would kill each other. Ours, this is just politics, we are fair," he said.

Two suspects in the shooting that wounded a councilman in Barangay Luca, Balamban last week have been arrested and have pointed to another incumbent councilman as the alleged mastermind behind the attack.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1269819

Two persons, including a barangay captain in Lagayan, Abra, died while three others were injured in an attack in Abra’s capital town of Bangued on Tuesday night.

A police report on Wednesday identified those killed as Collago barangay captain Ezequiel Parado and Collago resident, Arlene Dorias.

Those injured are Sangguniang Bayan (Municipal Council) member Ailyn Parado, Edron Salingbay, and Jaypee Gacayan, all residents of Collago.

Initial reports said that Ezequiel and Ailyn Parado were aboard a dark blue Toyota Fortuner with plate number NVR 11 while the others were aboard a green Nissan Frontier pick-up with plate number XRZ 889.

Police said the victims were traversing Calaba Bridge in Bangued, going to Barangay Mudeng in La Paz municipality at about 6:20 p.m., when assailants riding a white pick-up vehicle opened fire at them.

Personnel of the Dolores municipal police station, who were on their way to the Abra Police Provincial Office in Bangued, saw the victims' vehicles and reported the incident to the Bangued police station.

The Dolores police personnel rushed the victims to Abra’s provincial hospital, but two of them were pronounced dead by attending physicians.

Another barangay captain has been assassinated. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2186840/remulla-chides-bulacan-guv-for-alleged-road-abuse-dont-act-like-a-king

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Tuesday said he chided Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando for allegedly abusively using the Northern Luzon Expressway (NLEX).

In a press briefing in Quezon City, the secretary maintained that his office received “many” complaints regarding Fernando’s purported use of the road, alleging that the latter had an entourage of two vans and a sports utility vehicle occupying four NLEX lanes when travelling.

“It has become Governor Fernando’s usual behavior that, when he travels along NLEX, he takes up four lanes where [other motorists] can’t overtake,” Remulla said, speaking Filipino.

“It has to stop. A governor should not act like a king. You should respect the people’s rights also,” he added.

Remulla said he had called Fernando on Sunday morning, after a report circulated online that the governor’s motorcade allegedly blocked and harassed a vehicle believed to be carrying a son of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The secretary said, in their 10-minute conversation, Fernando denied the alleged incident.

The DILG chief further noted that he had referred the case to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and deferred to the said agency when pressed for details.

Fernando has yet to issue a statement on the matter. The Inquirer is working to reach him for comment. It will published his side once available. 

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Tuesday said he chided Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando for allegedly abusively using the Northern Luzon Expressway.

An ethics complaint was filed on Wednesday, Feb. 25, against Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa by a civil society group called “Wag Kang KuCorrupt,” led by former Finance Undersecretary Prof. Cielo Magno. 
The complaint stems from the senator’s prolonged absence from his official duties in the Senate, which has exceeded three months. 
According to the complaint, Dela Rosa’s persistent failure to report for duty is not only a neglect of his responsibilities but also constitutes a grave abuse of the privilege and trust granted to him by the people as a senator. 
The complaint further emphasized that if ordinary workers and employees were continuously absent from work, they would automatically be denied pay and, in many cases, face disciplinary action, salary deductions, suspension, or even termination. 
"What we are asking for is a sanction, similar to that given to an ordinary worker who faces disciplinary action when they fail to do their job," she said. 
Magno expressed hope that the Senate Committee on Ethics would promptly act on the complaint filed against Dela Rosa and impose appropriate sanctions. 
She added that the upper chamber should not tolerate such conduct—namely, the continued absence and failure to perform the duties of a senator. 
According to Senator Joseph Victor "JV" Ejercito, there are currently six ethics complaints pending before the panel.

An ethics complaint has been field against Senator Bato for not showing up to do his job after several months.