Hosting skills ni Michael sa MMFF pinuri, pinag-usapan ng netizens

MAKATI CITY, Metro Manila -- Hinangaan at naging usap-usapan ng mga netizen ang ipinamalas na husay sa pagho-host ng Kapuso star at PBB Diligent Wonderson ng Marinduque na si Michael Sager sa katatapos lamang na 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal na ginanap nitong Sabado, Disyembre 27 sa Dusit Thani sa Makati City.

Marami sa mga manonood ang nagpahayag ng positibong reaksiyon sa social media, kung saan pinuri ang natural na karisma, malinaw na pananalita, at kumpiyansang pagdadala ni Sager sa prestihiyosong pagtitipon ng industriya ng pelikulang Pilipino.

Ayon sa ilang netizen, kapansin-pansin na kayang-kayang makipagsabayan ni Sager sa mga batikang host tulad nina Enchong Dee at KaladKaren, na kapwa nagsilbi ring emcee sa naturang okasyon. Dagdag pa nila, maayos ang kanyang timing, mahinahon ang delivery, at may mahusay na pakikitungo sa kapwa hosts at mga panauhin.

Dahil dito, marami ang naniniwala na bukod sa kanyang kakayahan bilang aktor, may malaking potensiyal din si Sager bilang isa sa mga bagong hahangaan at maaasahang host ng kanyang henerasyon sa mga malalaking programa at espesyal na okasyon sa telebisyon at entertainment industry kagaya ng PBB at national pageant competition.

"Michael Sager carried himself like a true master of ceremonies at MMFF 2025. His presence was calm yet commanding, effortlessly guiding the audience with clarity and confidence throughout the event," pahayag ng isang netizen sa Facebook.

"Can I just say I really admire @michaelsager_'s hosting skills? Like ang gaan niyang panoorin, super natural, walang pilit, and he really knows how to connect with the audience," komento ng isang netizen sa X.

Samantala, lubos naman ang kasiyahan at pasasalamat ni Sager na nabigyan s'ya ng pagkakataon na maging kabahagi ng MMFF Gabi ng Parangal 2025.

"Earlier this year I prayed to be a part of the MMFF. God gave me more than I prayed for. Super grateful to have hosted the premiere nights for all eight films and Gabi ng Parangal," post ni Sager sa kanyang Facebook.

Nagdarasal naman si Michael na sa susunod na taon ay nais muli n'yang maging kabahagi ng MMFF na hindi lamang host bagkus ay bilang artista at cast member ng isang pelikula. "Praying next year, may entry na rin." (Photo from PEP) -- Marinduquenews.com

Dolphin, natagpuang patay sa dalampasigan ng Tigwi

TORRIJOS, Marinduque — Isang araw matapos ang pagdiriwang ng Pasko, isang dolphin ang natagpuang wala nang buhay sa dalampasigang sakop ng Sitio Yamog sa Barangay Tigwi, Torrijos, ngayong gabi ng Biyernes, Disyembre 26.

Sa Facebook post ni Roberto Macdon, hepe ng Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), gabi na ng maipabatid sa kanilang tanggapan ang sinapit ng kaawa-kaawa at duguang lumba-lumba.

Makikitang duguan ang kaawa-awang lumba-lumba. (Larawang kuha ni Roberto Macdon)

Agad namang rumesponde ang mga kawani ng MDRRMO kasama ang Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), gayundin ang mga opisyal ng barangay, upang magsagawa ng paunang assessment at wastong disposisyon sa nasabing hayop-dagat.

Sa kasalukuyan, inaalam pa ang sanhi ng pagkamatay ng dolphin kasabay ng pagpapaabot sa mga mamamayan ng babala na kapag may namataang buhay na dolphin sa karagatan ay huwag itong sasaktan bagkus ay iingatan at aalagaan sapagkat endangered o nanganganib ng maubos ang kanilang uri o species. -- Maridnuquenews.

Coral Geographer makes fourth port call in Marinduque, showcasing province as emerging cruise destination

BOAC, Marinduque — For the fourth time, Australian-based Coral Expeditions returned to the Heart of the Philippines as its cruise ship Coral Geographer visited Marinduque on Thursday morning, December 18, further strengthening the province’s growing presence in the international cruise tourism market.

Around 120 cruise passengers, together with ship crew members, arrived at exactly 7:52 a.m. aboard two tender boats at Cawit Port in Boac. A light drizzle briefly welcomed the guests, but it soon gave way to bright sunshine and the rare sight of double rainbows—setting a memorable tone for the day’s activities.

Tourists were greeted with a vibrant cultural welcome organized through the coordination and support of the Marinduque Tourism and Cultural Office and the Provincial Government of Marinduque. The reception featured the iconic Moriones (Moryons), traditional putong rites performed by students of Marinduque National High School, musical numbers by the Capitol Choir, and performances by the unique Pangkat Kalutang band of Barangay Bangbang, Gasan.

Accredited tour guides trained by the Department of Tourism from the Marinduque Tour Guides Association, along with local tour operator Dream Favor Travel and Tours, facilitated the excursion. The visitors were transported by approximately 14 air-conditioned vans and divided into two groups to ensure a more relaxed and uncrowded experience at each destination.

The tour highlighted Marinduque’s rich cultural heritage and scenic countryside. Stops included live demonstrations of Moriones mask carving, armor making, and accessory crafting at the parish church patio in Mogpog, prepared by the Mogpog Tourism Office and the Local Government of Mogpog. Guests also enjoyed views of vast rice paddies and coconut groves along the Mogpog route before proceeding to Boac.

In Boac, the visitors explored the historic Immaculate Conception Cathedral and its patio, joined a walking tour of select ancestral houses, visited souvenir shops and the Marinduque Museum, and sampled local delicacies. The Boac Tourism Office and the municipal government offered light snacks such as fresh buko juice, special bibingka, and traditional panganan cookies. The group later made a brief stop at the Provincial Capitol Complex before returning to Cawit Port ahead of their 11:50 a.m. departure.

One of the tourists, Barry from Australia, shared his positive experience and revealed that many were impressed by the grand welcome, the serene provincial atmosphere, the richness of local traditions, and the warmth and hospitality of the locals—despite the limited time of their visit.

“Everybody here is so friendly, and it’s good to see how the locals interact with us and demonstrate their skills—from weaving to pottery. The food preparation and the opportunity to taste island cuisine made it a very happy and enjoyable experience,” he said.

Meanwhile, Susan Nace, president of the Marinduque Tourism Association and owner of Dream Favor Travel and Tours, said the visitors were deeply moved by the reception.

“We are truly delighted that Marinduque is now emerging as one of the preferred destinations for cruise ships, opening our province to the global market. We sincerely hope that this momentum continues to grow, attracting even more visitors, and we eagerly look forward to the time when larger cruise ships will grace our shores and make Marinduque a regular port of call,” Nace said.

After departing Boac, the Coral Geographer made a stop offshore at Natangco Island in Brgy. Silangan, Mogpog, where guests delighted in the islet’s unspoiled natural beauty and powdery white sand.

Coral Expeditions is set to return to the province as the Coral Geographer is scheduled to make another port call in Marinduque on December 21, underscoring the island’s growing appeal as a cruise tourism destination. (Photo by Toby Jamilla) -- Marinduquenews.com

Walang public funds na ginastos sa deklarasyon kay PBBM bilang adopted son ng Marinduque - Go

BOAC, Marinduque — Nilinaw ni Gov. Melecio J. Go na walang anumang pondo ng pamahalaan ang ginastos sa paglalabas ng executive order (EO) na kumikilala kay Pangulong Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. bilang adopted son ng lalawigan ng Marinduque.

Ayon kay Go, narinig n'ya ang mga katanungan at agam-agam ng mga mamamayan hinggil sa EO No. 46 na kanyang nilagdaan at personal na ibinigay sa pangulo kaya't nais niyang klaruhin na malinaw ang layunin nito. "Let me be clear, walang public funds na ginastos dito. No legal rights created. Walang binagong batas," wika ng gobernador.

Ipinaliwanag ni Go na ang deklarasyon ay pagkilala sa mga hakbang ng Pangulo laban sa katiwalian, partikular sa kanyang paninindigan laban sa mga anomalya, pagsusulong ng pananagutan at transparency, at ang hangarin para sa malinis na pamahalaan at inklusibong kaunlaran. Aniya, ang mga adhikaing ito ay hindi lamang para sa iilan kundi nakikinabang ang lahat ng Pilipino, kabilang ang mga taga-Marinduque.

Binigyang-diin din ng gobernador na bihira ang pagkakataon para sa mga provincial governor na direktang makaharap at makausap ang Pangulo. “Kapag may ganitong pagkakataon, sinisigurado naming may kabuluhan ito,” ani Go, sabay paliwanag na ang EO ay bahagi ng relationship-building sa pambansang pamahalaan.

Dagdag pa niya, mahalaga ang ganitong ugnayan upang maihanda ang lalawigan sa oras na mangailangan ito ng suporta mula sa national government. “When Marinduque needs national support, we've already laid the groundwork."

Sa halip na kwestiyunin ang mga executive act matapos itong maisakatuparan, hinikayat ni Go ang publiko na tanungin kung makabubuti ba ito sa lalawigan. "But rather than questioning executive acts after the fact, we should ask: does this benefit the province? Kung makatulong sa Marinduque, and this kind of relationship-building clearly does, then support it," pahayag pa ng punong lalawigan.

Binanggit din ng gobernador na ang mga proyektong pang-imprastraktura, pondo para sa kalamidad, at mga pambansang programa ay hindi awtomatikong naibibigay. Aniya, nagiging posible ang mga ito dahil sa maayos na ugnayan at koordinasyon ng mga lokal na opisyal sa pambansang gobyerno. -- Marinduquenews.com

Dahilan ng pagkaantala ng sweldo ng mga JO at COS sa Kapitolyo, nilinaw ng PTO

BOAC, Marinduque — Nilinaw ng Provincial Treasurer’s Office (PTO) o Tanggapan ng Panlalawigang Ingat-Yaman ang mga dahilan sa likod ng umano’y pagkaantala sa pasahod ng mga Job Order (JO) at Contract of Service (COS) personnel ng Kapitolyo, kasabay ng panawagan para sa tamang pag-unawa sa umiiral na proseso ng pamahalaang panlalawigan.

Base sa pahayag ng PTO sa kanilang Facebook page, patuloy aniyang nagsusumikap ang tanggapan na magbigay ng maayos, mabilis, at tapat na serbisyo, lalo na sa pagpoproseso ng mga bayarin gaya ng suweldo ng mga regular na empleyado, JO, at COS. Giit ng tanggapan, malinaw na itinatakda ng Local Government Code ang mga pangunahing tungkulin ng Provincial Treasurer’s Office na kinabibilangan ng revenue generation, pangangalaga at paglalabas ng pondo, financial reporting at transparency, at pagtiyak ng fiscal discipline.

Ipinaliwanag din ng PTO na may mga itinakdang rekisitos na kailangang matupad bago maisama sa payroll ang mga JO at COS. Kabilang dito ang pagkakaroon ng wastong kontrata bago magsimula ang serbisyo, Tax Identification Number (TIN) para sa tamang remittance ng buwis, pagsusumite ng Daily Time Record (DTR) at accomplishment report na pirmado ng kinauukulang hepe.

Kapag kumpleto na ang nasabing mga dokumento, saka pa lamang ihahanda ang payroll na kinakailangang dumaan sa ilang tanggapan para sa beripikasyon ng pondo at masusing awdit. Kabilang sa mga ito ang Provincial Budget Office, Provincial Accounting Office, Provincial Treasurer’s Office, at Provincial Governor’s Office.

Dagdag pa ng PTO, tanging kapag kumpleto na ang lahat ng lagda at aprubal saka lamang maaaring mag-cash advance ang mga kahera. Mayroon ding mga voucher na kinakailangang pirmahan ng accountant, treasurer, at ng gobernador bago tuluyang mailabas ang pondo.

Binigyang-diin ng tanggapan na isa lamang ang PTO sa maraming opisina na dinadaanan ng mga dokumento, at maaari lamang itong mag-disburse ng pondo kung may sapat na alokasyon at kung ang lahat ng proseso ay dumaan sa wastong awdit. Nilinaw rin na hindi saklaw ng tungkulin ng PTO ang pag-asikaso ng mga attachments na kinakailangan para sa payroll, alinsunod sa itinatakda ng batas.

Dahil dito, iginiit ng PTO na hindi makatarungang isisi ang pagkaantala sa iisang tao o opisina lamang. Bilang paalala, hinikayat ng tanggapan ang publiko na alamin muna ang buong proseso at pangyayari bago maglabas ng akusasyon, lalo na sa social media, sapagkat ang tamang impormasyon ang susi sa patas at makatarungang pag-unawa. (Photo: PPIO) -- Marinduquenews.com

MarSU research ends the year with retooling and upskilling of manuals and services

SANTA CRUZ, Marinduque — Marinduque State University (MarSU), through its Research, Extension, and Training Department, capped the year with a two-day workshop aimed at updating the Research Manual of Operations. The activity was held on December 12 and 13 at Panuluyan Farmstay in Santa Cruz, Marinduque.

The workshop focused on strengthening institutional research systems and aligning policies with MarSU’s updated vision and mission, as well as with national research and development (R&D) priorities. In-house facilitators led a comprehensive four-phase process, from initial orientation to draft consolidation and planning for final validation.

On the first day, participants were oriented on the scope, timeline, and guiding principles of the manual revision. The Vice President for Research and Extension, who also chairs the Research Council, formally welcomed the participants and delivered the opening message. This was followed by a presentation from the MarSU Research Director, who outlined the existing Research Manual and identified key areas for revision, including the university’s vision and mission, R&D agenda, policies, enumerations, and gaps requiring attention.

To ensure strategic alignment, participants were grouped to review external mandates from various government agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). They also examined national R&D priorities under the Harmonized National R&D Agenda.

Phase 2 involved a detailed, section-by-section review of the manual based on updated institutional and national mandates. Working groups focused on key areas, including vision, mission, and core values; R&D management and policies; and monitoring, evaluation, and remuneration. Five interdisciplinary research centers—Health and Food and Nutrition Security; Sustainability, Resilience, and Environmental Justice; Creative Industries and Tourism; Digitization and Innovation; and Quality Education and Lifelong Learning—were also actively engaged in the review process.

During Phase 3, participants drafted new and revised policies based on their analyses. Plenary presentations and discussions were conducted to address major issues, ensure consistency across sections, and refine the proposed revisions. The drafting process emphasized clarity, coherence, and adherence to the principles of a research-driven university and total quality management.

The final phase centered on consolidating the draft manual and setting the process for validation and finalization. The MarSU Research Department, together with research coordinators from various constituent colleges, undertook the review, formatting, and planning for stakeholder consultations involving faculty, staff, and students. A final review by the Research Council (RECO) and the submission of the approved resolution to the Board of Regents were also scheduled.

Beyond the intensive workshop, participants also took part in year-end fellowship activities marked by rest, recreation, and team-building games, attended by the MarSU President, Dr. Diosdado P. Zulueta and key university officials. As the year concluded, the research team emerged reinvigorated and motivated, ready to advance MarSU’s research agenda in the coming year and as the second semester begins. -- (Photo: MarSU Research and Extension Office/Dr. Randy Nobleza, MNN)

Mel Go: From family roots to forward leadership - A governor’s journey of integrity and progress

Governor Mel Go is a distinguished public servant, visionary entrepreneur, and devoted family man whose life and leadership embody integrity, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the progress and welfare of Marinduque. 

Born in Boac and now residing in Torrijos, he is the eldest son of Cleto Go Yeesan, a respected businessman, and Marta Jinang Go, a former Barangay Captain, a Community and Church advocate who balanced entrepreneurship with public service. Raised in a family deeply rooted in the values of hard work, compassion, and civic duty, he grew up in an environment where principles and discipline were non-negotiable foundations. His upbringing in a household that valued agriculture, business, and public service profoundly shaped his worldview and leadership style. 

Governor Go completed his elementary education at the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Boac, pursued secondary education at UNO High School in Tondo, Manila, and later studied Industrial Engineering from Adamson University. Even as a young man, he demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial spirit, managing GMJ Lumber, Hardware and Merchandise, their family-owned business, at the early age of 13. Eventually, he founded Sargasso Construction and Development Corporation, building a reputation for excellence, innovation, and sound fiscal management. 

Throughout his professional journey, Go has successfully balanced business and public service. His work as a World Bank project contractor and site developer for major infrastructure such as the Iloilo Business Park and Cavitex Expressway demonstrated his capacity to deliver impactful, large-scale projects that drive economic growth. 

His entry into public service was inspired by a sincere desire to serve and uplift the lives of his fellow Marinduqueños. Elected as Provincial Board Member for two terms and twice garnering the highest votes as number one or senior board member of the province, he championed proactive legislation in education, healthcare, infrastructure, economic development, environmental protection, and good governance. During this time, he stood firmly with his people in the historic fight for justice and accountability following the Marcopper mining disaster, the worst environmental tragedy in Philippine history. This advocacy cemented his lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship and the protection of Marinduque’s natural heritage. 

He also serves as one of the 13 Board of Trustees and Directors of the Volunteers Against Crime & Corruption, demonstrating his consistent advocacy for ethical governance and the protection of the public’s welfare. 

As Governor, he has articulated and embodied a leadership approach anchored on transparency, accountability, and participative governance. Guided by his vision “Go Forward Marinduque,” he believes that inclusive and collaborative decision-making is essential to genuine progress. His administration focuses on enhancing healthcare services, strengthening education, modernizing infrastructure, expanding livelihood opportunities, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring that government resources are used wisely and equitably. 

Beyond his public achievements, Governor Go is also a dedicated family man, blessed with the love and support of his wife, Sylvia Tanya Huber Go, a businesswoman, and with eight children who inspire his dedication to serve with purpose. His personal interests such as reading books on entrepreneurship and lifelong learning reflect his relentless pursuit of growth and innovation. 

Mel Go’s story is a testament to what purposeful, principled leadership can accomplish: a leadership shaped by deep family roots, refined by decades of entrepreneurial and public service experience, and driven by an unshakable faith in the collective strength of the Marinduqueño people. Today, he stands as a beacon of hope and progress proving that with vision, integrity, and determination, Marinduque can rise to its fullest potential and build a future anchored in dignity, prosperity, and shared purpose. -- Marinduquenews.com

EO ni Go na kumikilala kay Marcos na adopted son ng Marinduque, kinuwestiyon ng bokal

BOAC, Marinduque -- Kinuwestiyon ng isang bokal mula sa Santa Cruz ang legalidad ng executive order na nilagdaan ni Gov. Melecio Go na kumikilala kay Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. bilang 'adopted son' ng Marinduque.

Sa Facebook post ni 2nd District Board Member Ishmael Lim, kanyang sinabi na, "Ang pagdeklara bilang 'adopted son' ng isang lalawigan ay gawaing pang lehislatibo at hindi pang-ehekutibo.

Aniya, ang paggagawad ng nasabing titulo ay ginagawa sa pamamagitan ng pormal na ordinansa o resolusyon na inihain at pinagtibay ng mayorya ng mga kasapi ng sanggunian at hindi sa pamamagitan ng isang executive order na inisyu ng tanggapan ng punong lalawigan.

Dagdag pa ni Lim, "Para kang nag-ampon sa ngalan ng lalawigan na ikaw lamang mag-isa, without the knowledge o pagsang-ayon ng mga kababayan mo."

Naglakip din ang bokal ng ilang impormasyon patungkol sa magkaibang mandato ng dalawang sangay ng pamahalaan -- ang executive at legislative branches.

Samantala, umani ng iba’t ibang reaksyon mula sa mga netizen ang naging hakbang ni Gobernador Go. Marami ang tumuligsa sa pagdedeklara kay Pangulong Marcos Jr. bilang adopted son ng lalawigan, habang ang ilan naman ay nagpahayag ng pagsuporta.

"Pili-pili naman ng aampunin. Not everyone deserves the title," wika ng isang netizen.

"Ayos iyan. Baka makahingi ng pondo si Gov. para maipaayos ang mga problema sa Marinduque tulad ng ospital, port sa Buyabod at ang problema sa kuryente," pagsang-ayon naman ng isa.

Matatandaan na noong Hulyo, idineklara rin bilang 'adopted daughter' ng Marinduque si Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio sa pamamagitan ng Resolution No. 10 series of 2022 na ipinasa ng 16th Sangguniang Panlalawigan. -- Marinduquenews.com

Minimum wage earners, kasambahay sa Mimaropa may dagdag sahod sa Enero 1

BOAC, Marinduque -- Magandang balita sa pagsalubong ng bagong taon dahil makatatanggap ng dagdag-sahod ang mga minimum wage earners at mga kasambahay sa rehiyon ng Mimaropa simula Enero 1, 2026.

Batay sa Wage Order No. RB-Mimaropa-13 na inilabas ng Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) nitong Disyembre 4, itinatakda sa ₱455 ang bagong daily minimum wage ng mga manggagawa sa pribadong sektor sa rehiyon.

Ang nasabing umento ay mula sa dating ₱430 para sa mga establisimyentong may 10 empleyado pataas, at mula naman sa ₱404 para sa mga establisimyentong may mas mababa sa 10 manggagawa. Ayon sa RTWPB, ipatutupad na ang iisa at pantay na minimum wage rate sa buong Mimaropa, anuman ang laki o bilang ng manggagawa sa isang kumpanya.

Samantala, itinaas din ang minimum na sahod ng mga kasambahay sa lahat ng lalawigan sa rehiyon sa ₱7,000 kada buwan, katumbas ng ₱500 na pagtaas mula sa dating ₱6,500.

Layunin ng wage increase na matulungan ang mga manggagawa na makasabay sa patuloy na pagtaas ng gastusin sa pamumuhay at mapabuti ang kanilang kabuhayan, habang isinasaalang-alang ang kakayahan ng mga employer at ang pangkalahatang kalagayan ng ekonomiya sa rehiyon. -- Marinduquenews.com

Oblation run kontra mina at katiwalian, isinagawa sa Marinduque

BOAC, Marinduque -- Sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon, isinagawa ngayong Martes, Disyembre 16 ang oblation run o run of the valiants sa campus ng Marinduque State University (MarSU) na bahagi ng ika-100 taong anibersaryo ng Alpha Phi Omega (APO).

Ayon kay APO Mandin President Chit Curaming, walang kakayahan ang mga kabataang miyembro ng APO na bumiyahe sa Maynila para makiisa sa mga rally kaya nagdesisyon ang mga ito na sa Marinduque magsagawa ng kaparehas na gawain.

"Hindi afford na sumama sa rally sa Maynila ang ating mga future leader kaya nag-isip sila ng paraan para maibulalas ang kanilang nararamdaman patungkol sa mga nangyayari ngayon sa ating pamayanan at pamahalaan," pahayag ni Curaming.

Nakasentro ang kanilang adbokasiya sa mga isyu ng korapsyon, pagmimina at maayos na serbisyong medikal para sa mamamayan.

Bago ang naturang freedom run ay pormal na pinasinayaan ang landmark ng APO Marinduque na matatagpuan sa Brgy. Bangbangalon, Boac na sinundan ng motorcade mula Kapitolyo hanggang Mogpog at MarSU. -- Marinduquenews.com

Marcos, idineklarang 'adopted son' ng Marinduque

BOAC, Marinduque -- Idineklarang adopted son ng lalawigan ng Marinduque si Pangulong Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. nitong Lunes, Disyembre 15.

Sa isang espesyal na pagtitipon ng mga gobernador sa bansa, personal na iniabot ni Gobernador Melecio Go kay Pangulong Marcos Jr. ang executive order na nagtataglay ng naturang deklarasyon.

"Gov. Mel Go brought his gift to President Bongbong Marcos. An Executive Order naming President BBM an adopted son of Marinduque—in our tradition of recognizing friends and benefactors of the Province," pahayag ng gobernador sa kanyang social media page.

Pinasalamatan din ng gobernador ang pangulo sa kanyang patuloy na serbisyo para sa bansa. "Salamat po sa inyong paglilingkod, Mr. President!" ani Go.

Matatandaan na nakapagtala si Marcos ng 54,145 boto sa Marinduque noong 2022 presidential election, mas mataas ng 1,016 kumpara kay Leni Robredo na may 53,129 lamang na boto.

Ang pagkilala bilang adopted son ng lalawigan ay itinuturing na simbolo ng pagpapahalaga at suporta ng mga Marinduqueño sa pangulo. (Photo: Gov. Mel Go/FB) -- Marinduquenews.com

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Batang malnourished sa Boac, tumanggap ng regalo mula sa LGU

BOAC, Marinduque -- Isinagawa ng Pamahalaang Bayan ng Boac ang ikatlong taon ng “Batang Boakenyo: The Shoebox Project for Malnourished Children,” isang makabuluhang programang pinangungunahan ng Municipal Nutrition Office sa pamumuno ni Municipal Nutrition Action Officer (MNAO) Giselle Pearl Olympia. Bawat kahong may munting regalo ay may dalang mas malalim na mensahe—na sa Boac, ang pangangalaga sa kabataan ay hindi lamang adbokasiya kundi araw-araw na tungkulin.

Nagpahayag ng taos-pusong pasasalamat si Mayor Armi DC. Carrion sa lahat ng nagpaabot ng kanilang kabutihan—mga Boakenyo mula sa iba’t ibang barangay, iba’t ibang grupo, at mga indibidwal na buong pusong nag-ambag para sa kapakanan ng mga bata. Ang bawat shoebox ay naging simbolo ng pag-asa at malasakit para sa mga kabataang higit na nangangailangan.

Bilang pakikiisa, naghandog din ng munting regalo si Carrion kasama si Konsehal Francis DC. Jacinto—isang simpleng hakbang upang ipakita na ang pangangalaga at pagtaguyod sa kabataan ay responsibilidad ng buong komunidad.

Patuloy namang nangako ang lokal na pamahalaan na susuportahan ang ganitong mga programa upang matiyak na ang bawat Batang Boakenyo ay lumalaki sa isang pamayanang nagmamahal, nag-aaruga, at tunay na nagmamalasakit sa kanilang kinabukasan. -- Marinduquenews.com

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3 bayan sa Marinduque, positibo sa bird flu

TORRIJOS, Marinduque — Tatlong bayan sa Marinduque ang nakapagtala ng kaso ng bird flu (Avian Influenza) matapos magpositibo ang ilang manok at bibe sa isinagawang pagsusuri ng Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI) Animal Disease Surveillance Team, katuwang ang mga Municipal Agriculture Offices at ang Provincial Veterinary Office (ProVet).

Sa social media post ni Dr. Josue Victoria, provincial veterinarian, ang mga nagpositibo sa pagsusuri ay mula sa mga sample na nagmula sa mga bayan ng Gasan, Mogpog, at Torrijos. Batay sa clinical laboratory report, nakitaan ng malinaw na indikasyon ng bird flu ang ilang alagang poultry sa nasabing mga lugar.

Nilinaw naman ni Victoria na bagama't may mga naitalang nagpositibo sa tatlong nabanggit na bayan ay hindi aniya nakahahawa sa tao ang H5N7 na virus gayundin walang dapat ipangamba ang publiko sapagkat hindi naman naabot ang bahagdan para maideklarang may outbreak ng bird flu sa probinsya.

Patuloy rin ang pinaigting na animal disease monitoring at surveillance ng ProVet-Animal Disease Quick Response Team sa mga apektadong komunidad at mga karatig-barangay upang mapigilan ang pagkalat ng sakit. Kabilang sa mga hakbang ang paghihigpit sa pagpasok ng day-old chicks, ready-to-lay pullets, at iba pang uri ng ibon at poultry species sa lalawigan.

Hinihinala ng ProVet Team na maaaring nagmula ang naturang "peste" sa mga illegal na trader ng sisiw mula sa labas ng lalawigan. Hindi rin isinasantabi ang posibilidad na may kaugnayan dito ang mga sasabunging manok at ang pagdating ng migratory birds, na kilalang posibleng tagapagdala ng virus.

Sa kasalukuyan, tiniyak ng ProVet na kontrolado ang sitwasyon at nagpapatuloy ang mahigpit na pagbabantay laban sa mga naglalako ng sisiw, pullets, at mga manok panabong na ilegal na ipinapasok sa isla.

Patuloy na hinihikayat ng mga awtoridad ang publiko, lalo na ang mga nag-aalaga ng manok at bibe, na maging mapagmatyag at agad mag-report ng anumang kahina-hinalang sintomas sa kanilang alagang hayop upang mapanatiling ligtas ang buong lalawigan mula sa pagkalat ng bird flu. -- Marinduquenews.com

Mogpogueno, wagi sa regional award ng 2025 Search for Outstanding Volunteers

MOGPOG, Marinduque — Kinilala si Kyle David V. Atienza bilang regional awardee sa Individual–Youth Category ng katatapos lamang na 2025 Search for Outstanding Volunteers (SOV)-National Outstanding Volunteer Award (NOVA) para sa Rehiyon ng Mimaropa -- pagpupugay sa kaniyang natatanging ambag bilang kabataang tagapagtaguyod ng edukasyon sa Marinduque na dating DOST scholar.

Inirekomenda si Atienza ng Provincial Science and Technology Office, sa pangunguna ni Provincial S&T Director Bernardo T. Caringal, dahil sa kaniyang kahanga-hangang pamumuno, matatag na dedikasyon sa paglilingkod-bayan, at mga makabuluhang programang nakatuon sa edukasyon. Siya ang founder at executive director ng The Street Classroom kung saan pinamunuan din niya ang Pangarap ng Puso Project, 4Ps para sa 4Ps, at ang Angat Basa Center.

Bukod sa pagiging aktibo sa iba't ibang adobokasiyang pang-edukasyon, si Atienza ay kasalukuyang senior education program specialist ng Department of Education (DepEd) sa Marinduque.

Kwento ni Atienza, hindi n'ya pangarap maging guro bagkus, pagiging beterinaryo ang kursong nais n'yang kunin sa kolehiyo subalit nagbago ang lahat nang magsunud-sunod ang mga pagsubok na dumating sa kanilang buhay.

Nariyan na nasalanta ng bagyo ang kanilang tahanan sinundan ng paghihiwalay ng kaniyang mga magulang dahilan para mapilitan silang magkakapatid na manirahan sa kanilang lolo at lola. “Life was hard—talagang mahirap ang buhay,” aniya.

Sa gitna ng pagsubok, hindi s'ya nawalan ng pag-asa bagkus ay napagkalooban ng Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Science Education Institute ng scholarship upang makapagpatuloy sa isang priority S&T program sa Marinduque State College—isang oportunidad na nagbukas ng bagong direksiyon sa kaniyang buhay.

Sa mensahe sa mga kabataan, kanyang binigkas, “To everyone—especially to fellow youth—allow yourselves to be weak. Allow yourselves to be used. Becoming an instrument of change is one of the bravest things we can ever do. Because sometimes, it is in our weakness that purpose is born,” ani Atienza.

Samantala, nagpaabot din si Atienza ng taos-pusong pasasalamat sa mga institusyong gumabay at naniwala sa kaniyang kakayahan. “To the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency, the DEPDev Regional Office Mimaropa, the DOST-Provincial S&T Center Marinduque, and my Street Classroom family—thank you for seeing the potential in my weakness. I hope my story inspires others to serve, even when they feel unready, uncertain, or weak.”

Bilang regional awardee, si Atienza ang magsisilbing opisyal na kinatawan ng Mimaropa sa pambansang antas ng 2025 SOV–NOVA na natakdang isagawa ngayong Disyembre.

Ang kuwento niya ay patunay na ang pagsisilbi ay hindi nasusukat sa edad o kalagayan sa buhay—bagkus ay sa puso at kagustuhang magbigay-inspirasyon at maghatid ng pagbabago sa kapwa. -- Romeo A. Mataac, Jr/Marinduquenews.com

50 benepisyaryo ng Tupad sa Marinduque, sasailalim sa organic farming at driving training

BOAC, Marinduque — Sumailalim sa oryentasyon ang 50 benepisyaryo ng programang Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers o TUPAD na isinagawa nitong Miyerkules, Nobyembre 26 sa Capitol Car Park, Boac.

Sa naturang batch, 30 benepisyaryo ang nakatakdang sumailalim sa Driving National Certficate II training, habang 20 benepisyaryo naman ang para sa Organic Farming. Ang pagsasanay ay inihahatid ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan sa pamamagitan ng Livelihood, Manpower Development & Public Employment Service Office (LMD-PESO), katuwang ang Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) at Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), bilang bahagi ng patuloy na suporta sa pagpapalawak ng oportunidad sa kabuhayan at kasanayan ng mga mamamayan.

Layunin ng programa na mabigyan ang mga kalahok ng praktikal na kaalaman at pagsasanay sa loob ng 15 araw, na magbubukas ng mas mataas na antas ng kahandaan sa trabaho. Pagkatapos ng pagsasanay, makatatanggap ang mga benepisyaryo ng Driving NC II at Certification of Registered Organic Farming, depende sa kursong kanilang nilahukan.

Bilang kinatawan ni Gov. Melecio Go, nagbigay ng mensahe si Executive Assistant at Chief of Staff Atty. Marianne Mondragon-Gawaran, na nagpahayag ng kasiyahan sa aktibong pakikiisa ng mga benepisyaryo. Aniya, patunay ito ng determinasyong matuto, magbago, at umunlad. Dagdag pa niya, ang mga ganitong pagsasanay ay mahalagang hakbang tungo sa financial stability at mas maraming oportunidad sa trabaho.

Samantala, tiniyak ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ang patuloy na suporta sa mga programang mag-aangat sa kabuhayan ng bawat Marinduqueño. -- Marinduquenews.com

Over 230 volunteers join DENR Marinduque’s Padyak para sa Kalikasan

 

MOGPOG, Marinduque -- More than 230 bikers and environment advocates pedaled and planted for a greener future as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Marinduque successfully conducted its annual “Padyak para sa Kalikasan, Magtanim para sa Kinabukasan – Year 4” on November 22.

The fun bike and tree-planting activity gathered 232 participants from various sectors, including biking groups, national government agencies, local government units, and civil society organizations. This year’s celebration aligned with key national environmental observances—Environmental Awareness Month, National Clean Air Month, and Climate Change Consciousness Week—and also marked the kickoff of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW).

Promoting Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

The event reinforced DENR’s call for environmental responsibility, eco-friendly transportation, and sustainable practices by expanding the circle of environmental “champions.” Participants completed a 10-kilometer route that began at the Boac Moriones Arena and ended at the tree-planting site in Sitio Ulong, Barangay Capayang, Mogpog. The cycling route served as a symbolic reminder of the role of low-carbon mobility in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Upon arrival at the planting site, volunteers planted 200 seedlings—150 narra and 50 bamboo—within an NGP (National Greening Program) area in Brgy. Capayang.

Leaders Highlight Shared Responsibility for Nature

Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Imelda M. Diaz stressed the importance of sustained environmental protection efforts, urging participants to continue practicing conservation even beyond the one-day event. She likewise highlighted the significant role of women in environmental work, in line with the upcoming VAW awareness campaign.

Mogpog Mayor Senen M. Livelo Jr. expressed gratitude to all the organizations and individuals who took part, noting that the initiative brings meaningful benefits not only to the environment but also to local communities.

Partners Strengthen Support for Environmental Initiatives

The program concluded with messages of support from partner agencies and organizations, recognizing their vital contributions that ensured the success of the back-to-back environmental and advocacy activities.

With growing participation each year, the “Padyak para sa Kalikasan, Magtanim para sa Kinabukasan” initiative continues to reinforce Marinduque’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community-driven climate action. -- Marinduquenews.com

Marinduque achieves provincewide ‘Stable Internal Peace and Security’ status

 

GASAN, Marinduque — All six municipalities of Marinduque have officially achieved Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) status, following a series of declarations and the signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) held earlier this November in the town of Gasan.

The milestone signifies the completion of a provincewide transition toward a safer, more secure, and development-ready environment. With Boac, Santa Cruz, Mogpog, Buenavista, Torrijos, and now Gasan validated as free from internal security threats, Marinduque has reached a unified SIPS classification for the first time.

The SIPS declarations were formalized through MOA signings between the municipal governments, the Provincial Government of Marinduque, the 201st Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Marinduque Police Provincial Office, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Bureau of Fire Protection, civil society groups, and various community stakeholders.

Army Official Highlights Importance of Vigilance and Partnership

Colonel Francis P. Carandang, Deputy Brigade Commander of the 201st Infantry Brigade, underscored the value of maintaining a peaceful and secure environment. He called on residents to remain vigilant and strengthen their partnership with government agencies in sustaining law and order.

Carandang also assured the public of the continued support of the 201st Infantry Brigade and the 85th Infantry Battalion, especially in programs that promote peace, security, and community development.

Local Leaders Celebrate Collective Achievement

In Boac, Mayor Armi DC. Carrion described the SIPS attainment as a triumph shared by the entire community.

“Ang ating pagkamit ng Stable Internal Peace and Security ay hindi lamang tagumpay ng ating pamahalaan, kundi tagumpay ng bawat mamamayan ng Boac. Ito ay bunga ng ating sama-samang pagsisikap at pagkakaisa,” she said, adding that the challenge now is to uphold and strengthen the peace gained through active collaboration from all sectors.

Santa Cruz Mayor Marisa Red-Martinez likewise highlighted the role of unity in sustaining progress, saying “Sa tulong ng pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan, sama-sama po nating isusulong ang isang ligtas, mapayapa at mas maunlad na Santa Cruz.”

Province Eyes Growth and Investment Opportunities

Marinduque Vice Governor Romulo A. Bacorro Jr. emphasized that the successful provincewide completion of the SIPS status marks a significant step toward long-term development.

“Ang deklarasyon ng Stable Internal Peace and Security sa lahat ng anim na bayan ng Marinduque ay patunay ng ating pagkakaisa para sa kapayapaan at kaunlaran. Mas bukas na ngayon ang pintuan para sa mga oportunidad na magdadala ng pag-asa at kabuhayan sa bawat pamilya. Sama-sama nating itaguyod ang isang lalawigang ligtas, maunlad, at mapayapa,” Bacorro said.

Provincial officials noted that Marinduque’s unified SIPS status is expected to boost investor confidence, expand social and livelihood programs, and strengthen community resilience.

They added that the designation enhances the province’s capacity to attract investments, broaden government services, and accelerate development initiatives at the barangay and municipal levels. -- (PIA-Marinduque) Marinduquenews.com

New Boac bishop embraces synodal leadership at Episcopal Ordination

LUCENA CITY, Quezon -- Bishop Edwin Panergo of Boac was ordained to the episcopate on Monday, December 1 pledging to lead the Church in a spirit of synodality as he steps into his new and demanding pastoral role.

Speaking for the first time as bishop, Panergo said his episcopal motto, “Synodus,” reflects not only a theme but a conviction formed through lived experience. “I have already experienced synodality in my life,” he told the congregation, emphasizing that true synodality is “not just about friendship,” but a shared journey that ultimately “leads to Christ.”

Using the image of grapes that bear fruit only when connected to the vine, he explained that synodality requires deep communion. He also recalled learning vine pruning during his time in France—an art that demands careful cutting, balance, and discernment to nurture healthy growth. In the same way, pastoral decisions, he said, must be made through thoughtful and discerning leadership.

Panergo outlined four criteria for discernment: decisions must be God-centered, human-centered, creation-friendly, and Church-serving, ensuring that the process respects faith, community, creation, and mission.

“People of Boac, let us journey together. I cannot do the discernment alone,” he said emotionally, stressing that synodality is the shared responsibility of the entire community. He added that genuine synodality requires shared sacrifice. “It is not only the priest who must sacrifice, but all of us,” he said, comparing it to grapes pressed together to make wine. “Synodality is not true synodality if only the leader sacrifices. It is real when we all sacrifice together.”

The ordination took place at St. Ferdinand Cathedral in Lucena City, where bishops, priests, religious, and lay faithful from Quezon, Marinduque, and nearby dioceses gathered for the historic moment.

The 54-year-old prelate was ordained bishop by Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, who served as principal consecrator. Bishop Mel Rey Uy of Lucena and retired Bishop Emilio Marquez acted as co-consecrators.

In his homily, Bishop Marcelino Antonio Maralit of San Pablo, Panergo’s predecessor in Boac, described the synodal path as a “true blessing,” one that calls everyone—including bishops—to listen first to God and then to one another. “It truly makes the life of a bishop much easier if we could journey with our people, with our brother priests—when we learn to listen to them, when we learn from their wisdom, when we are inspired by their passion and commitment to service,” he said.

Panergo becomes the eighth priest from the Diocese of Lucena elevated to the College of Bishops, a milestone that coincides with the diocese’s 75th founding anniversary.

He will be formally installed as the fifth bishop of Boac during a Mass at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral at 9 a.m. on December 2. -- Marinduquenews.com

BIR chief receives Marinduque delegation in courtesy visit

QUEZON CITY, Metro Manila -- BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza, a proud Marinduqueño, warmly welcomed the delegation from the Provincial Government of Marinduque during a courtesy visit on Monday, December 1. The visit highlighted the presentation of a Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution recognizing and congratulating him on his appointment as Commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

The BIR expressed its heartfelt appreciation to the provincial leadership for the meaningful gesture and for their continued support of the Bureau’s mandate. According to the agency, the recognition reflects the strong partnership between the national office and local government units in promoting efficient and transparent tax administration.

The delegation, led by Governor Melecio Go, included Vice Governor Romulo Aguinaldo Bacorro Jr. and eight members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan namely Antonio Mangcucang III, Mercedes Rejaño, Jojo Leva, John Pelaez, Gilbert Daqioag, Danilo Red, Ishmael Lim, and Bertinus Valencia.

Also present was Marinduque Lone District Representative Reynaldo Salvacion, who joined the group in extending his support to Commissioner Mendoza. During the meeting, the officials formally handed over the resolution commending Mendoza’s appointment and reaffirming their confidence in his leadership.

Commissioner Mendoza thanked the provincial officials for their visit and recognition, emphasizing his commitment to fulfilling the BIR’s mission with integrity and dedication.

Mendoza, a native of Gasan, Marinduque, was recently appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as commissioner of BIR on November 13. -- Romeo Mataac, Jr/Marinduquenews.com (Photos: BIR)