Retards in the Government 481

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

 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2274255/dismissed-cop-2-others-busted-in-p340000-cdo-drug-sting

A dismissed police officer and two other suspects were caught red-handed in a predawn drug raid that yielded P340,000 worth of suspected shabu in Barangay Lumbia here on Tuesday, July 28.

Maj. Joann Navarro, Police Regional Office 10 (PRO-10) spokesperson, told the Inquirer on Wednesday that the officer had been dismissed in November last year after testing positive for drug use.

“He immediately went AWOL. However, his case regarding the positive drug test continued, and his dismissal order from the service was issued earlier this year,” she said.

Joint operatives from Police Station 8’s Anti-Illegal Drug Team (SAIDT), the City Mobile Force Company, and PDEA Regional Office 10 raided an abandoned house at around 4:32 a.m., arresting the buy-bust operation’s primary target, a 32-year-old identified as alias “Tams.”

Arrested alongside him were alias “James,” the 35-year-old dismissed police officer, and alias “Apon,” 35. 

Authorities noted that “Tams” and “James” are first-time alleged criminal offenders, while “Apon” is a second-time offender currently under probation.

Seized during the raid were eight sachets containing approximately 50 grams of suspected shabu, a .38 caliber revolver loaded with three live rounds, assorted drug paraphernalia, two motorcycles, a cellular phone, and the P1,000 buy-bust money.

The arrest reinforces PRO-10 director Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano’s declaration earlier this month that they are serious about internal cleansing and that police personnel caught involved in illegal drugs will face absolute dismissal from the service.

“No one is above the law. This operation underscores that the law applies equally to everyone,” Abrahano told the Inquirer.

The suspects are currently detained at Police Station 8 and face charges for allegedly violating Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Alias “James,” the ex-police officer, will face an additional charge for alleged violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

PRO-10 vowed to maintain its relentless, intelligence-driven campaign against illegal drugs and criminality to uphold public safety across Northern Mindanao.

A dismissed cop has been busted for drugs. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2275160/laguna-mayor-vice-mayor-suspended-due-to-raps-filed-vs-each-other

The mayor and vice mayor of San Pablo City in Laguna were both suspended by the Office of the Ombudsman this month due to complaints they filed against each other.

The Ombudsman on Friday said it ordered the preventive suspension of Vice Mayor Justin Colago for up to six months without pay pending the resolution of an administrative case against him filed by City Mayor Arcadio Gapangada Jr.

In an order dated July 22 signed by Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, the anti-graft body said it found sufficient grounds to place Colago under preventive suspension in connection with charges for grave abuse of authority, grave misconduct and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

The ruling said that it found “sufficient grounds to preventively suspend respondent considering that there is strong evidence showing his guilt”.

It also said Colago’s continued stay in office “may prejudice the investigation and there is a need to preserve the documents and evidence pertaining to the case”.

Gapangada Jr. alleged that Colago certified and signed appointment papers, daily time records (DTRs), accomplishment reports, and payroll documents for a job order worker. This worker has executed an affidavit stating that she neither reported for work nor signed the DTRs and accomplishment reports for the periods reflected in the documents.

Earlier this month, the Office of the Ombudsman also suspended Gapangada following a complaint filed by Colago.

The complaint came after the local chief executive allegedly transferred and stripped city officials and employees of their functions to accommodate job order workers.

In April, Gapangada went to the Office of the Ombudsman to ask the body to investigate Colago for allegedly hiring 200 ghost employees.

Colago vehemently denied the allegation.

The mayor and vice mayor of San Pablo City in Laguna were both suspended by the Office of the Ombudsman this month due to complaints they filed against each other.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2275251/cop-businessman-arrested-over-p1-8-m-smuggled-cigarettes-in-zambo-norte

Authorities arrested a policeman and a businessman after intercepting a van loaded with nearly P1.9 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a checkpoint operation in Barangay Gatas, Kalawit, Zamboanga del Norte late Friday night, July 31.

Lt. Col. Edwin Verzon, force commander of the Zamboanga del Norte 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (ZNPMFC), said personnel from the 2nd Platoon, ZNPMFC, together with other law enforcement units, flagged down a white Nissan van at 10:05 p.m. 

Instead of stopping, the driver accelerated and attempted to evade inspection, prompting operatives to pursue and intercept the vehicle a short distance away.

The suspects were identified as a 34-year-old policeman assigned at Police Station 10 under the Zamboanga City Police Office and a resident of Barangay Talon-Talon, Zamboanga City; and a 36-year-old businessman from Barangay Tumaga, Zamboanga City.

Upon inspection, authorities discovered 1,630 reams of smuggled cigarettes concealed inside the van. The Bureau of Customs (BOC) estimated the contraband’s market value at P1,867,980 based on its standard price index.

Confiscated from the businessman who was also the driver, was a 9mm Taurus pistol (model G3 Black) with three magazines and 35 live rounds.

Verzon said they immedIately coordinated with BOC for the inventory of the seized cigarettes. 

The suspects, along with the confiscated items, are now under the custody of the Kalawit Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.

The arrested individuals face charges for violations of Article 151 of the Revised Penal Code and Republic Act 10643 (Graphic Health Warnings Law).

A cop has been busted for smuggling cigarettes. 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/02/barangay-captain-surrenders-after-being-tagged-in-bulacan-teachers-killing

The alleged mastermind in the killing of a former village secretary and teacher surrendered to police after learning he had been named in the victim’s dying declaration.

Sta. Maria police chief Lt. Col. Mark Louie M. Sigua reported to Col. Jay B. Baybayan, acting Bulacan police director, that the suspect—a barangay captain—voluntarily surrendered at around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 1.

His decision came after learning that the victim, Stephen “Gelo” Pagmanua Enriquez, 38, had identified him as the mastermind before succumbing to gunshot wounds.

Enriquez was shot in front of his house by unidentified riding in tandem assailants in Barangay Poblacion, Santa Maria, early Thursday, July 30.

He later died while receiving medical treatment.

Investigators said the victim’s dying declaration became a crucial lead, prompting intensified evidence gathering and documentation, which ultimately led to the suspect’s voluntary surrender.

Authorities noted that the suspect has yet to issue a statement.

Police are now completing documentary requirements and consolidating evidence for the filing of a murder complaint before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Malolos, Bulacan.

Police Regional Office 3 Director Brig. Gen. Jess B. Mendez commended the swift action of investigators, stressing the importance of impartial and evidence based investigations.

He assured the public that due process will be followed and encouraged continued cooperation from the community in the pursuit of justice.

A barnagay captain accused of murder has been arrested. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2277233/traffic-enforcer-on-duty-shot-hurt-in-cotabato

An unidentified gunman shot and seriously injured a traffic enforcer on Tuesday morning here while he was performing his duties in Barangay Poblacion 1.

Midsayap Mayor Rolly Sacdalan immediately condemned the attack against the law enforcer and directed the police to bring the perpetrator to justice.

Juius Reberal Lajot, 43, of Barangay Kiwanan, Midsayap and a member of the local government’s traffic management unit, is now fighting for his life in the hospital after he was shot from behind by a lone gunman at 10 a.m.

CCTV footage showed that Lajot, while standing in front of a bakeshop, was shot at the back of his head by a man wearing dark sunglasses, a white facemask, a sleeveless shirt, and blue cargo shorts. The suspect fled on a motorbike.

“We condemn the violence against our traffic enforcer. The arm of the law is long! God is just! How infuriating,” Sacdalan said in Filipino.

The Midsayap Municipal Police Station, headed by Lt. Colonel William Facsoy Jr., strongly condemned the shooting of Lajot.

Police said a thorough investigation and pursuit operation are being conducted to identify, locate, and arrest the persons responsible.

Lajot was the third traffic enforcer of Midsayap to become a victim of a gun attack while performing their duties.

An unidentified gunman shot and seriously injured a traffic enforcer on Tuesday morning here while he was performing his duties in Barangay Poblacion 1.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/03/cotabato-village-chair-shot-dead-mendoza-slams-violence

Cotabato Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza on Monday, Aug. 3, condemned the series of violence in the province, including the killing of a barangay chairman in her hometown of Carmen on Sunday.

The governor urged law enforcement agencies to investigate and hunt suspects in violent incidents that pose a big threat to peace and order in the province.

She said the provincial government won’t let these incidents pass.

Gunmen ambushed Barangay Cadiis Chairman Arnel Aliudin while on board onboard a vehicle in Barangay Kibudtungan, Carmen. Aliudin was declared dead in a hospital. Two companions were injured.

On July 28, a resident was killed and two others were wounded in an encounter between warring clans due to land conflict in Barangay Estado, Matalam.

The firefight displaced at least 100 residents, who sought refuge in the village center while others evacuated in Barangay San Roque in neighboring Kidapawan City.

This long-standing conflict remains unresolved despite series of dialogues and other interventions.

Mendoza expressed alarm over an alleged assault against a student in Kidapawan City.

She urged the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and concerned local government units to investigate these incidents.

She asked the people to help authorities by providing relevant information and stop spreading fake news.

Another Barangay chairman has been assassinated. 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/05/village-chair-2-pals-nabbed-in-drug-sting

A barangay chairman and two companions were arrested in a buy-bust operation on Bypass Road, Barangay San Jose, Palo, Leyte, on Tuesday.

Police identified the suspects as barangay chairman Mario, 35, Rank 1 Regional Priority Target Listed (RPTL) High-Value Individual (HVI); and Jessa, 34, and Josh, 18, all are residents of Leyte, Leyte.

Recovered from them were seven heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu weighing 805 grams and a Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) value of P5,474,000.

Police Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy, PRO-8 director, lauded operating units for the successful operation.

"The arrest of the region's Rank 1 HVI is a major accomplishment in our anti-illegal drug campaign. We will continue conducting intelligence-driven operations and strengthening partnerships to keep Eastern Visayas safe and drug-free," he said.

He encouraged the public to stay vigilant and support law enforcement by reporting illegal drug activities in their communities to help maintain peace, order, and public safety across the region.

A Barngay Chairman has been busted for drugs. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2277732/barmm-village-chief-hurt-in-gun-attack-amid-election-firearms-ban

Unidentified gunmen attacked the home of a village chairperson in the Special Geographic Area of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (SGA-BARMM) on Tuesday night, leaving the official slightly injured despite the election gun ban in effect ahead of next month’s historic parliamentary elections.

Police identified the victim as Toks Pulalon, chairperson of Barangay Tugal in Kadayangan town.

Capt. Steffi Salanguit, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, said Pulalon sustained a gunshot wound in the elbow and is recuperating at a hospital in nearby Midsayap, Cotabato province.

“We are still determining the motive behind the attack,” Salanguit said.

Citing an initial police report, Salanguit said several armed men riding on motorcycles arrived in front of Pulalon’s house at around 8:15 p.m. and, without provocation, opened fire at his residence using assault rifles.

The attack occurred about 500 meters from the Kadayangan Municipal Police Station.

Responding police officers immediately responded, but the assailants had already fled.

A village chief has survived an assassination attempt. 

Coronavirus Lockdown: World Cup, Farm Aid, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government. 

The Philippines women's baseball team is going to the World Cup.  They would have gone in 2020 but the World Cup was cancelled then. 

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/07/29/sports/ph-womens-baseball-team-out-to-prove-its-worth-in-world-cup/2393668/amp

The Philippine women’s baseball team qualified for the WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup for the first time in 2020 but was not able to play because the event was called off by the World Baseball Softball Confederation due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

This year, the Philippines will finally have its chance to show its wares at the World Cup after the team was granted a wildcard entry.

In recognition to the Philippine women’s baseball program's upward trajectory, the Filipina batters were granted entry and will debut in the World Cup group stage slated from Aug. 23 to 27.

The Philippines is pooled in Group Tainan in Taiwan.

National team assistant coach Jennifer Singh said that the Filipina batters are out to prove they belong among the world's best as they try to make the top three of the group stage to advance to the World Cup finale next year in Rockford, Illinois.

“The whole team, PABA (Philippine Amateur Baseball Association), and PSC (Philippine Sports Commission) are very happy. Since 2019, this has been our goal — to qualify for the World Cup. We were not able to continue in 2020 because of the pandemic," said Singh in an interview with The Manila Times.

“We did not expect that we would be given the chance to make it to the World Cup. So, this is an opportunity we really will not waste. We will give our best.”

As a player, Singh was part of that 2019 national team that qualified for the World Cup by finishing third in the Asian Cup.

The former University of the East standout recalled how the Filipina batters were dejected after the 2020 World Cup was canceled.

“We have been preparing for this for several years. In 2023, we lost to Korea in the Asia Cup, which served as the World Cup qualifier," said Singh. 

"Then in 2025, we had some visa problems with our players. When we faced Korea again, only nine players arrived on the day of the Korea-Philippines game. We fell short there.”

Those setbacks, however, are now behind her as she looks to help the national team in a coaching capacity.

Singh said the team, made up of UAAP standouts and veteran players, is determined to prove it deserves a place in the World Cup.

“From the moment we received the invitation that we were chosen as the wildcard team, we became committed. We are focused on discipline, working hard in training, and improving the way our players perform," said Singh.

“We are not focused on how we earned our spot in the World Cup. What matters to us is how we will carry the name of the Philippines. We want to show the country and the whole world that the Philippine women’s baseball team has the ability to compete against the best of the world. We hope that through our performance in the World Cup, more Filipinos will support baseball and that the sport will continue to grow in our country.”

The Philippines, ranked 21st in the world, is pooled with No. 5 Venezuela, No. 7 Cuba, No. 15 Great Britain, No. 6 Taiwan, and No. 1 Japan, which it will face to open its campaign on Aug. 23.

After Japan, the Philippines face Cuba, Taiwan, Great Britain, and Venezuela in that order.

“Japan is a team we have already faced three times from 2019 to 2025. We can say that they are really a strong team but our team will still fight," said Singh.

“In fact, during our last game against Japan in 2023 when I was still a player, we played against Japan and we lost at 7-1. Among all the teams that Japan faced, though, we were the only ones who were able to complete seven innings. We were not subjected to the mercy rule.” 

It's great they get another shot at the title. 

The economy continues to sink post-pandemic. 

https://business.inquirer.net/603002/postpandemic-low-economy-likely-grew-by-just-2-5-in-q2-says-uap

The Philippine economy may have lost further momentum in the second quarter, with growth slipping to another postpandemic low as stubborn inflation weighed on consumer spending and weak business confidence curbed investment.

This is according to University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) economists, who lowered growth forecast for the April-to-June period to 2.5 percent from the previous estimate of 2.6 percent. If realized, it would be weaker than the already subdued 2.8 percent expansion in the first quarter.

In its latest The Market Call report, UA&P said there were signs of relief in June after oil prices had eased following a ceasefire between the United States and Iran. Inflation slowed to 6.4 percent from 6.8 percent a month earlier, though it remained more than double the 3 percent target of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

That respite, however, appears to have been short-lived. As the Gulf conflict enters its sixth month, renewed fighting has sent global crude prices back to more than $100 a barrel, raising costs for oil-importing economies like the Philippines.

“Some soft recovery is underway, though persistent above-target inflation and subdued business optimism may undermine the recovery narrative,” the economists said.

UA&P warned that the outlook remained overshadowed by what it called a triple threat: higher oil prices, an outsized minimum wage increase and severe El Niño conditions. Together, those factors are seen to push inflation beyond 7 percent again, forcing the BSP to keep monetary policy tight.

Since April, the central bank has raised its benchmark interest rate by a cumulative 50 basis points to 4.75 percent in an effort to contain inflation, though higher borrowing costs also risk further slowing economic activity.

UA&P said mounting inflationary pressures could drive long-term government bond yields higher and prompt an additional 50 basis points of rate hikes from the BSP.

Even so, it expects the local financial markets to remain largely range-bound until there is clearer progress toward peace in the Middle East.

“Trading will likely center around second quarter earnings reports, with some leeway in store as companies signaled conservative forward earnings guidance in the thick of the Middle East conflict,” the report said. 

That's what you get when you shut down the economy for years. The Iran war doesn't help either. 

A new study is out about Food Security which is tied directly to the pandemic and raising prices.  Food security is more than aiding farmers. 

https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/08/03/supplements/food-security-demands-more-than-farm-aid/2396594

A study by Maria Galveia and Edison Macusi titled “Climate change resilience and food security of small-scale fishing communities in the South-eastern Mindanao, Philippines,” published in July 2026, documented how climate change variability has affected small-scale fishing communities in four Mindanao municipalities.

During his State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted food security as one of the important lessons that the government learned over the past months -- and how by technology and good governance can the country overcome the many variables in food production, such as climate change and pestilence -- can provide sustenance for Filipinos.

“We are strengthening our agriculture system to guarantee the supply of food and lower its price. Various programs such as investments, farm inputs, equipment, knowledge and insurance will help farmers and fisherfolk,” the President said in Filipino.

The President enumerated these generic programs for agriculture and fisheries without any specific end goal or a robust program, making it an insufficient statement to address one of the pressing problems of the country.

It is correct that at its core, agriculture must be strengthened — from farming to fisheries and livestock — as this industry provides food. However, there are multiple factors that should be considered.

The Galveia and Macusi study showed that while Mindanao is less prone to storms, the frequent typhoons have caused infrastructure and livelihood damages and exacerbated by socio-economic conditions and lack of accessibility to resources. These enumerated factors are important to be considered when it comes to strengthening agriculture.

Global problems also indirectly affect food security. The study of Marvin Joseph Mentefrio and Anacorita Abasolo titled “Pandemic lockdowns and their impacts on urban-based agrarian livelihoods and food security in a Provincial City in the Philippines,” published on March 11, 2025, details how the Covid-19 pandemic affected food security among urban-based agrarians.

The study illustrated how the pandemic forced residents to alleviate hunger through subsistence food sources. However, these food sources leave people in debt because they acquire the sources through credit. These findings indicate another layer of food security: accessibility through affordability even amid crisis. Food must, ultimately, reach family tables for it to be utilized effectively.

Increasing food prices is a common plea among Filipinos. “From price stability to food security: what are the drivers of price volatilities in Philippine vegetable markets?” published on Jan. 21, 2026 by Jennifer Hinlo and Yoonsuk Lee, details how domestic market dynamics affect vegetable price volatility. The main factor, according to the study, is demand volatility and followed by supply shocks. Seasonal production and smuggling and illegal trade are also understated factors.

While these studies are only a fraction of the overall image of food security in the Philippines, these findings collectively show that food security is a complex issue that may not be addressed simply by helping farmers through programs. The administration must step up to carefully assess how multiple socioeconomic factors play into the issue instead of offering short-term solutions. This will help nation building as a whole as well.

The people need price stability.  And with inflation, that stability is not there. 

Spider-Man: Brand New Day has set a post-pandemic box office opening record.

https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/movies/2026/08/04/2546900/spider-man-brand-new-day-sets-philippine-post-pandemic-opening-weekend-box-office-record

Cash continues to flow for "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" as it approaches a week in Philippine cinemas.

The latest solo outing of Tom Holland as the web slinger scored big on its opening day in the country last July 29 as it raked in nearly P96 million.

That made "Brand New Day' the biggest opening day box office in the Philippines since the pandemic, and the third-biggest opening day ever in the country behind the last two "Avengers" movies, "Endgame" and "Infinity War."

It also set a new opening day gross record in the Philippines for any "Spider-Man" movie and a film released by Sony Pictures.

New data from distributor Columbia Pictures show the movie has now set a new record for the biggest post-pandemic opening weekend in the Philippines.

"Brand New Day" accumulated P586.9 million on its opening weekend in more than 700 cinemas nationwide — again a record for any "Spider-Man" film and just behind the previously mentioned "Avengers" films for opening weekend hauls.

August 1, Saturday, was a particularly special day for moviegoers as fans celebrated "Spider-Man Day" to commemorate the superhero's debut in 1962.

Columbia Pictures also released a list of Philippine cinemas where "Brand New Day" grossed the most during its opening weekend.

SM Megamall led the pack with P15.4 million, followed by Power Plant and Trinoma with around P14 million apiece.

SM Seaside Cebu (P8 million) and Robinsons Antipolo (P7.78 million) rounded out the Top 10 as the highest-grossing opening weekend cinemas outside of Metro Manila.

"Brand New Day" will continue to screen in all sorts of Philippine cinema formats, including ScreenX and 3D/4DX, and hopefully open in IMAX once "The Odyssey" finishes its exclusive run in those specialty cinemas.

The film picks up with Holland's Peter literally forgotten by the rest of the world to preserve his identity and the safety of his closest friends MJ (Zendaya) and Ned (Jacob Batalon) but is thriving as Spider-Man.

The webslinger comes face-to-face with a mysterious figure capable of jumping consciousnesses — but not his — as he grapples with all sorts of pain as a result of his struggling identity

That's good news for local theaters. 

Residential Fires July, 2026

This is a reported list of residential fires in the Philippines for July, 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/2026/07/11/residential-fire-breaks-out-along-congressional-avenue-in-qc

A fire gutted 46 houses under Culiat Bridge II along Congressional Avenue in Barangay Bahay Toro, Quezon City on Saturday night, July 11, prompting authorities to raise the blaze to fourth alarm.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the fire was reported at 9:49 p.m. and was raised to first alarm at 9:51 p.m., second alarm at 10:05 p.m., third alarm at 10:15 p.m., and fourth alarm at 10:34 p.m. It was declared under control at 10:56 p.m. before it was completely extinguished at 11:26 p.m.

Fire Senior Inspector Rodrigo Delos Santos, commander of the BFP Quezon City Fire Station 1, said the fire reached fourth alarm because it occurred under Culiat Bridge II, a vital installation where informal settler families were living.

Initial investigation showed that the fire started in a single-story house occupied by an informal settler family under the bridge, although authorities have yet to determine its exact cause.

No deaths or civilian injuries were reported, but one firefighter experienced difficulty breathing while positioning and responding to the blaze. A total of 37 fire trucks and four ambulances responded to the incident.

Residents said the fire spread rapidly through the community, leaving many with little time to save their belongings as thick smoke engulfed the area.

Several families escaped safely but lost their homes, important documents, clothing, and other personal belongings despite efforts by residents to help contain the flames. Many of the affected families also appealed for assistance after being left without shelter and basic necessities.

Thin white smoke continued to rise from the affected area on Sunday morning, July 12, while the Congressional Avenue Bridge remained closed to traffic in both directions as of before 6 a.m. after portions of the structure reportedly lifted due to the fire.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire and assess the extent of the damage.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2263745/fire-hits-tondo-residential-area-on-tuesday-afternoon

A fire hit a residential area in Tondo, Manila on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Bureau of Fire Protection – National Capital Region (BFP-NCR).

In a Facebook post, BFP-NCR Manila City said that the fire occurred in a residential area in Dagupan Extension in Tondo, Manila around 4:01 p.m., with the first alarm instantly reached at 4:03 p.m.

The BFP-NCR said that the second and third alarms were eventually raised at 4:12 p.m. and 4:33 p.m., respectively. The fourth alarm was at 5 p.m. while the bureau said that the fire was placed on fifth alarm at 5:29 p.m.

It added that the fire was declared under control at 7:26 p.m.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/14/fire-hits-residential-area-in-pasig

The Pasig City government said around 132 families, or 512 individuals, were initially affected by the fire that broke out in a residential area in Barangay Palatiw, Pasig City on Tuesday night, July 14.

The city government said the figure is only an initial count as of 11 p.m. on Tuesday, with validation still ongoing to determine the total number of affected families.

The Pasig City DRRMO said the fire started along Balsancat Street at 6:04 p.m. and was raised to the third alarm at 6:23 p.m.

Firefighters extinguished the blaze at 8:23 p.m.

Two evacuation centers are currently open for the affected families: the Palatiw Evacuation Center at Catalina Covered Court and the Pinagbuhatan Evacuation Center along Balsancat Street.

Personnel from the barangay and concerned city offices immediately attended to the families at the evacuation centers, where food was also provided.

Authorities are still investigating the origin of the fire.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/17/fire-displaces-33-families-in-muntinlupas-barangay-cupang

A fire struck a residential area in Purok 6, Barangay Cupang, Muntinlupa, on July 17, affecting 33 families or 110 individuals.

The Muntinlupa City Department of Disaster Resilience and Management reported that the blaze began at about 6:39 a.m. in Medina Compound. Firefighters raised the first alarm at 6:49 a.m. before extinguishing the fire at 8:24 a.m.

The city government’s Social Services Department conducted area mapping, assessments, and intake interviews, and issued disaster cards to the affected families.

The displaced families are temporarily staying at the JRF Multipurpose Building.

The city government, in coordination with Barangay Cupang, provided hot meals and will distribute additional food and non food relief assistance.

Mayor Ruffy Biazon assured the families that they will receive support.

Under a city ordinance, fire victims are entitled to financial assistance.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2265564/2-separate-fires-hit-baguio-no-injuries-reported

Two separate fires broke out in Baguio on Thursday, and no one was hurt, according to the Baguio City Public Information Office (PIO) on Friday, citing information from the Baguio City Fire Station.

The first fire broke out at around 4:25 p.m. at a residential lodging house at Lower Brookside.

Supt. Mark Anthony Dangatan, the city fire marshal, said firefighters arrived at the scene five minutes after receiving the report and found thick smoke billowing from the second-floor basement of the wooden structure.

The blaze was declared under control at 4:40 p.m. and was fully extinguished by 4:50 p.m.

The blaze affected about six square meters of the structure where two families have been dwelling. 

At around 5:40 p.m., another fire hit a residential house in Barangay San Roque.

Firefighters arrived at 5:45 p.m. and found that the occupants, with the help of neighbors, had already extinguished the fire using water after forcibly opening the affected portion of the house.

The second fire damaged about one square meter of the structure and involved one family.

Arson investigators have yet to determine the cause of both fires.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2266126/baguio-fire-displaces-6-families

Six families were displaced after a fire razed several houses along Sampaguita Street in Purok 8, Barangay San Luis on Friday morning, July 17.

Baguio City Fire Marshal Supt. Mark Anthony Dangatan said the blaze destroyed residential structures with a combined floor area of about 120 square meters. Most of the houses were made of light materials, including wood and galvanized iron sheets.

One resident suffered an asthma attack during the incident and was reported injured.

Dangatan said the Bureau of Fire Protection received the alarm through the city’s Smart City Command Center at 10:11 a.m. Firefighters arrived at the scene at 10:30 a.m., placed the fire under control at 11 a.m., and declared it fully extinguished at 11:20 a.m.

Firefighting operations were hampered by the location of the affected area, which was about 200 meters from the nearest accessible road, making it difficult for responding units to bring equipment closer to the scene, Dangatan said.

Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire and the extent of the property damage, which remain under investigation.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/20/tacloban-village-dad-wife-killed-in-fire

A couple was killed in a fire that destroyed their house in Barangay 107, New Hope Village, Santa Elena District, this city, on Sunday, July 19.

The victims were identified as Paeng, 32, barangay kagawad (councilor) of the village, and his wife, Abtik, 31.

Initial investigation by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the blaze started at around 6 a.m. from an overheated air conditioner.

The fire spread quickly as the house was made from light materials.

The fire was placed under control at 6:30 a.m.

Follow-up investigation is ongoing.

The affected unit was part of a government housing in the barangay.

 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/24/fire-displaces-over-40-families-in-muntinlupa

A dawn fire gutted houses and displaced more than 40 families in Barangay Putatan, Muntinlupa, on July 24.

The Muntinlupa City Fire Station said the blaze broke out at 4:58 a.m. from an industrial establishment on San Guillermo Street. 

Firefighters raised the first alarm at 5:05 a.m. and declared the fire out at 6:31 a.m.

About 20 houses were destroyed, with property damage estimated at P350,000. 

The city government said the affected families are temporarily sheltered at the Biazon Building nearby.

The Social Services Department has conducted mapping and interviews, issued disaster cards, and pledged food, non food relief, and financial aid.

A total of 11 fire trucks, six water tankers, five volunteer groups, four ambulances, and a rescue vehicle responded to the incident.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/24/fire-leaves-15-families-homeless-in-qc

Fifteen families were left homeless after a fire destroyed adjoining studio-type residential units in Barangay Silangan, Quezon City, on Thursday night, July 23.

The blaze started at around 7:30 p.m. at 209 Ermin Garcia St. and was raised to the second alarm 10 minutes later, according to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Quezon City.

The fire was placed under control at 8:05 p.m. and was completely extinguished at 10:18 p.m.

Barangay Silangan Chairman Bong Villarba said an estimated 15 families were affected by the fire, which residents believed may have been caused by a short circuit.

All residents were able to escape, and no deaths or injuries were reported.

The affected families were temporarily sheltered at the barangay hall, where the barangay prepared a disaster tent and provided basic necessities, including food, first-aid supplies, pillows, and other relief goods, Villarba said.

 

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/750546/basak-pardo-fire-displaces-13-families-damages-7-houses

Thirteen families, or 45 individuals, were displaced after a late-night fire damaged at least seven houses along Jumalon Street in Barangay Basak Pardo, Cebu City, on Friday, July 24.

Initial reports from the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO) and the Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWS) showed that three houses were destroyed, while two sustained partial damage. The two other affected houses were owned by absentee owners.

According to the Cebu City government’s initial report, the Cebu City Fire Station said it received the alarm at 10:25 p.m. and raised the first alarm upon arriving at the scene at 10:30 p.m.

Firefighters placed the blaze under control by 11:15 p.m. and declared the fire out at 11:45 p.m.

Authorities said the fire affected seven households, comprising 13 families or a total of 45 individuals.

Among those affected were six family sharers, while two of the affected structures were owned by absentee owners, according to the city’s initial assessment.

The displaced residents were temporarily housed at the Basak Pardo Barangay Hall as of Saturday, July 25.

Following the incident, the DSWS conducted intake interviews, validation, and damage assessment of the affected families.

The city government also began providing hot meals, with food assistance intended to cover their needs for three days.

Based on its initial assessment, the DSWS recommended the distribution of relief goods and financial assistance to affected families and property owners.

It recommended providing ₱20,000 each to owners of totally and partially damaged structures, ₱10,000 to sharer families, and ₱5,000 to owners of affected structures who were absent during the incident.

The DSWS also recommended the provision of housing materials to owners of the affected structures.

Authorities have yet to determine where the fire started.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said the cause of the blaze, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and the exact amount of property damage remain under investigation.

No injuries or fatalities had been reported in the initial reports released by the Cebu City government and the Cebu City Fire Station.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/29/two-3rd-alarm-fires-hit-pandacan-tondo-before-dawn

Two separate fires, both reaching the third alarm, broke out in Pandacan and Tondo, Manila, before dawn on Wednesday, July 29, prompting a massive response from firefighters and volunteer fire brigades.

The first fire broke out at Building 1 of Residences in Pandacan at around 3:40 a.m. The blaze allegedly started on the fourth to fifth floors of the building, making it difficult for firefighters to contain the flames.

The fire reached the 1st Alarm at 3:48 a.m., the 2nd Alarm at 3:54 a.m., and the 3rd Alarm at 4:37 a.m. 

Fire suppression operations were ongoing as of posting.

The nearby Carlos P. Garcia High School also suspended classes on Wednesday due to the fire incident.

The fire also caused traffic to build up early along Mabini Bridge, as motorists and commuters passing through the area were affected by the ongoing firefighting operations.

Meanwhile, another fire broke out at Dagupan Extension in Tondo at around 4:09 a.m., also reaching the 3rd Alarm at 4:47 a.m.

Residents were seen salvaging whatever belongings they could from their homes as firefighters worked to put out the blaze at Dagupan Extension.

Firefighters managed to bring the Tondo blaze under control at 5:13 a.m. and declared it out at 5:30 a.m.

The Manila Fire District and volunteer fire brigades responded to both incidents.

Authorities have yet to release details on the cause of the fires, as well as any reported casualties or the extent of property damage.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/30/pasig-fire-displaces-over-400-families-kapitolyo-hs-shifts-to-remote-classes

At least 402 families have been evacuated following a fire that broke out in a residential area along Rosemarie Lane in Barangay Kapitolyo, Pasig City, on Wednesday, July 29, according to the barangay.

As of 10 a.m. Thursday, July 30, Barangay Kapitolyo said the count covered families registered at its evacuation centers.

The Pasig City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (Pasig City DRRMO) said the fire started at 2:01 p.m. before it was raised to the second alarm at 2:09 p.m. and the third alarm at 2:36 p.m.

Firefighters put the blaze under control at 5:44 p.m. before fully extinguishing it at 10:21 p.m.

Barangay Captain Alex Torres said the affected houses were made of light materials and were close to each other, which may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

The Bureau of Fire Protection estimated that the blaze destroyed more than 100 houses.

The fire’s origin remains under probe, but Torres said reports indicated that when the blaze was still small, residents were told to shut off their circuit breakers to stop electricity from spreading, yet the advice was not followed right away.

He said they had received reports that LPG cylinders were allegedly being sold in the area by unregistered sellers, and that their presence may have contributed to the fire’s rapid spread.

Meanwhile, Torres said some affected residents refused to evacuate to the Kapitolyo Amphitheatre because they did not want to leave their homes due to reports of opportunists allegedly looting properties in the area.

Aside from the donations sought through the barangay's public appeal, Torres said fire victims will also receive financial assistance from the national and local governments.

He urged each evacuated family to leave one representative at the temporary shelter so assessment teams could easily identify beneficiaries and ensure they are included in the distribution of assistance.

"The barangay is prepared to provide feeding support for two to three days, while the city government will take over the assistance starting Sunday. The affected families are expected to stay for around two weeks," Torres said.

He added that beneficiaries of the barangay's recent rice subsidy program will also be reassessed to ensure they are included in the next distribution in August.

One representative from each affected family will also be enrolled in the Kaagapay Program of the Pasig Employment Service Office (PESO), a 10-day employment assistance program that provides minimum wage as initial livelihood support to help families recover from the fire.

He also said that the barangay is working on the release of its Special Trust Fund (STF) so it can be used to provide assistance to fire victims.

“Fire is the most dangerous and the last thing we want to happen in our homes. We should check our electrical wiring,” he reminded.

The barangay also thanked everyone who extended their help and support.

Meanwhile, Kapitolyo High School shifted to asynchronous classes on Thursday, July 30, to ensure the safety and well-being of students and school personnel.

The school said the move was prompted by lingering smoke and the smell of burned electrical wires around the campus following the fire.

The school reminded students to coordinate with their respective subject teachers through their Messenger group chats for their scheduled learning activities for the day.

 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/07/29/2-college-students-killed-11-injured-in-legazpi-city-fire

Two college students were killed and 11 others were injured in a  fire that engulfed a boarding house here on Tuesday, July 28.

‎‎The fatalities were identified only by their aliases, "Jer," a resident of Sorsogon province, and "Will," from Masbate province. Both were students in a college in Legazpi City.

‎Injured were alias "Dado," 18, of Matnog, Sorsogon; "Carlo," 19, of Bacacay, Albay; "Jojo," 17, of Masbate; "Fer," 18, of Libon, Albay; "Trish," 17, of Guinobatan, Albay; "Ally," 18, of Masbate City; "Sheen," 22, of Bato, Catanduanes; "Jan," 18, of Libon; "Ken," 17, of Virac, Catanduanes; "Junjun," 17, also of Virac, and "Rey," 21, of Masbate City.

‎Most of the injured were students of a college here.‎

‎Initial investigation revealed that the fire started in an annex law office before spreading to several parked vehicles and eventually reaching the nearby boarding house where the victims were staying.‎

‎The incident occurred at around 2:26 a.m. while the victims were asleep.‎

‎According to a police report, responding firefighters from the Legazpi City Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) discovered the bodies of the two victims who were trapped inside the burning boarding house during retrieval operations.

‎‎The victims were taken to the Legazpi City Hospital but were declared dead on arrival.

‎Authorities are conducting follow-up investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire and damage to property.

That is 15 reported incidents for July. 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.