ICRC president underscores role of international humanitarian law as foundation for global peace and stability in Audience with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican and President Mattarella in Rome

 

Rome (ICRC) - With armed conflicts at their highest level since World War II, Mirjana Spoljaric, president of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), today focused on the role of international humanitarian law for global peace and stability during an Audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV and a separate meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella.

 

 By Jun Enriquez

ICRC (October 9, 2026-Friday) - “More war, combined with less respect for international humanitarian law, risks putting humanity on a very dangerous path,” said President Spoljaric. “The way wars are fought in one part of the world informs how they are fought in another. The choices made before, during and after conflict to uphold or disregard the rules of war can either preserve or obstruct pathways back to peace.”

During her time at the Vatican, President Spoljaric also met with H. EM. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State for the Holy See. 

Both the Holy See and Italy have joined the Global Initiative to galvanize political commitment to international humanitarian law (IHL) – an exceptional effort led by 122 states to revive respect for the rules of war. 

The initiative will culminate in a High-Level Conference to Uphold Humanity in War hosted by his Majesty King Abdullah II of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on 7 December 2026. The conference will bring together state leaders to reaffirm their commitment to international humanitarian law and turn that commitment into concrete action.

ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric and Italian President Sergio Mattarella

“Civilians in over 130 conflicts today face unacceptable levels of suffering that could have been avoided had the rules of war been better respected,” said President Spoljaric. “I am thankful to both The Holy See and Italy as States Parties to the Geneva Conventions for being a part of this initiative to bring the rules of war back to the centre of political attention. We need leaders to unite around a shared commitment to preserve humanity in war, and with it, hopes that we can return to a vision of peace and stability.”

The ICRC works closely with the Italian Red Cross, a fellow member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, to support humanitarian action and assist people affected by conflict and other crises. (ICRC News Release; Written and Edited by Jun Enriquez, Digital-MobileJournalist)

 

 

Israel and the occupied territories: Marking three years of tragedy and loss

 

 

This week marks three years since an unprecedented escalation of violence in Israel and the occupied territories that has seen countless lives shattered, thousands of people killed and injured, and families torn apart.

 

 By Jun Enriquez

ICRC (October 6, 2026 - Tuesday) - “There are no words that can truly reflect the scale and horror of this human loss,” said Julien Lerisson, ICRC head of delegation for Israel and the occupied territories. “We have seen too much pain over the last three years and we must not lose sight of the humanity we share,” said Lerisson.  

In its role as a neutral intermediary over the last three years, the ICRC supported the return home of 195 hostages from Gaza – including 35 who were deceased. In the same period, across many different operations, we have facilitated the return of more than 6,000 released Palestinian detainees. In Gaza, the ICRC has been addressing humanitarian needs such as access to clean water, adequate shelter and nutritious food, and through the Red Cross Field Hospital, which has provided more than 52,400 consultations.

“Respect for the laws of war ensures space for humanity even during dark moments,” Lerisson said. “We reiterate our call to de-escalate the conflict and provide a path for peace – so that all people affected by the conflict can live safely and in dignity with their loved ones.” (ICRC Press Release; Written and Edited by Jun Enriquez, Digital-Mobile Journalist)

Lebanon: Learning Through Laughter: Helping Children Stay Safe from Unexploded Ordnance

 

In areas affected by hostilities across Lebanon, the danger does not always end when the fighting subsides. Mines and unexploded ordnance can remain hidden in fields, beneath rubble and near homes, turning familiar places into areas full of potential threats.

 

 By Jun Enriquez

ICRC (October 1, 2026- Thursday) - In areas affected by hostilities across Lebanon, the danger does not always end when the fighting subsides. Mines and unexploded ordnance can remain hidden in fields, beneath rubble and near homes, turning familiar places into areas full of potential threats. With more than a hundred incidents recorded across the country between April and October 2026, these remnants of conflict put lives at risk, as families return to their homes, children play outside and communities try to rebuild their lives.

Children are particularly vulnerable. An unfamiliar object can easily attract their curiosity without them realizing the danger it may pose.

To help children recognize these risks and know how to react safely, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in collaboration with the Lebanese Armed Forces – Lebanon Mine Action Center (LMAC), is bringing life-saving messages to communities through clowning and interactive theatre.

During a series of performances by the group Clown Me In, children are encouraged to remember one simple rule: “If you didn’t drop it, don’t pick it up.” Using storytelling, humour and interaction, the performers turn serious safety guidance into messages children can understand and remember.

“Children learn best when information is presented in a way they can understand and engage with. Through theatre and humour, we can communicate very serious safety messages without frightening them,” said Sabine Choucair from Clown Me In.

The ICRC organized twenty performances in villages in southern Lebanon, the Bekaa, northern Lebanon and Beirut’s suburbs, in coordination with municipalities and local communities.

"The professionalism behind ICRC's initiative is remarkable. It proves that explosive ordnance risk education can be both rigorous and deeply human, and that is exactly the standard our communities deserve,” said Colonel Ali Makki, Head of Explosive Ordonnances Risk Education at LMAC.

The risk can also change with the seasons. As winter approaches, rain and snow can expose or displace mines and unexploded ordnance, causing dangerous items to appear in unexpected areas. This can increase the risk for families and children, particularly during outdoor activities or while collecting firewood, making continued awareness and caution especially important throughout the winter months.

“We want children to leave the show smiling, but also remembering one very serious message: if you see something you don’t recognize, don’t touch it. Move away and call 1706. For the ICRC, helping communities understand these risks is an essential part of our humanitarian response. We remain committed to working alongside our partners to help people stay safe and reduce the risks posed by mines and unexploded ordnance, particularly in areas affected by hostilities,” said Jessica Ibrahim, weapon contamination field manager at the ICRC’s delegation in Lebanon. 

For communities living with the consequences of hostilities, knowing how to recognize danger and respond safely can help prevent further injuries and save lives. (ICRC Lebanon Press Release; Written and Edited by Jun Enriquez, Digital Mobile Journalist)

West Bank: ICRC calls for urgent protection of civilian population

 

Jerusalem / Tel Aviv – Surging violence, increasing restrictions on movement and an acceleration of settlement expansion are causing serious harm to civilians across the West Bank, making everyday life untenable for the civilian population.

 

  By Jun Enriquez

ICRC (September 29, 2026 - Tuesday) - This year alone, dozens of Palestinians have been killed, hundreds injured and many more displaced. Homes and property have been damaged or destroyed, leaving many without shelter or livelihoods.

“The frequent and severe violence must be brought to an end,” said Julien Lerisson, the head of the ICRC’s delegation for Israel and the occupied territories.

“Authorities have a responsibility to protect the population from violence, including when that violence is inflicted by settlers. What international humanitarian law says on the protection of private and public property, and on the population’s access to essential services, must be respected,” he said.

The humanitarian impact of the violence, including the tragic loss of life and serious injuries, is overwhelming. Movement restrictions mean that patients are unable to reach health care, children are unable to get to school, people are cut off from their homes and livelihoods, and families and whole communities face increasingly intolerable conditions in which to live.

Ambulances are sometimes held up for hours at checkpoints and roadblocks, or forced to add hours to their routes to avoid road closures and violence. All of this makes the work of first responders harder and endangers the lives of those they seek to help.

Israel has a right to take measures to ensure its own security. However, as the occupying power in the West Bank it also has a responsibility towards Palestinians, who are protected persons under international humanitarian law. The occupying power has an obligation to treat protected persons humanely at all times, protect them against all acts of violence or threats thereof, and must make every effort to restore and maintain public order and civil life.

“Upholding international humanitarian law and respecting obligations under the law of occupation are necessary steps towards restoring the safety and dignity of the population. This means protecting civilians from violence and ceasing the expansion of civilian settlements,” Lerisson said. (ICRC Press Release;Written and Edited by Jun Enriquez, Digital-Mobile Journalist)

Joint statement on the Global Initiative to galvanize political commitment to international humanitarian law

From left to right, representatives from South Africa, France, Brazil, Jordan, Kazakhstan, China, and the International Committee of the Red Cross.

 

By Jun Enriquez

ICRC (23 Sept 2026) - On the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, high-level representatives of the six founding states of the Global Initiative to galvanize political commitment to international humanitarian law (IHL) and the president of the ICRC issued the following joint statement, calling for renewed respect for the rules of war and urging governments to participate at the highest level in the High-Level Conference on Humanity in War, to be held in Jordan on 7 December. 

The statement was delivered by H.E. Ayman Safadi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. He was joined by H.E. Ambassador Mauro Vieira, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Brazil; H.E. Mukhtar Tileuberdi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan; H.E. Ronald O Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa; H.E. Fu Cong, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent Representative of the People’s Republic of China to the United Nations; Ms. Éléonore Caroit, Minister Delegate for Francophonie, International Partnerships and French Nationals Abroad, attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France; and Mirjana Spoljaric, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross. 

I am joined today by my esteemed colleagues to address you on behalf of Brazil, China, France, Kazakhstan, South Africa, and my own country Jordan.  

Two years ago, together with the International Committee of the Red Cross, we launched the Global Initiative to galvanize political commitment to international humanitarian law (IHL). Today we have come together to renew our call to action. The toll of today’s armed conflicts is unconscionable, and there is no time to lose.  

Civilians in more than 130 armed conflicts across the world face unacceptable realities. Hospitals, schools and homes are more and more often being treated as battlefields. These patterns are not inevitable casualties of war; they are, too often, deliberate choices to disregard the rules designed to protect people caught up in war. The world must not accept such suffering and destruction. 

It is possible to change course, and state leaders hold such a power. That is why, at the invitation of His Majesty King Abdullah II, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan will host the High-Level Conference to Uphold Humanity in War on 7 December 2026. Building on the work undertaken through the Global IHL Initiative, the conference will gather state leaders to reaffirm their collective commitment to IHL and translate the momentum generated into action. In this spirit and following broad consultations, a concise and inclusive political declaration will be issued by states at the conference.  We invite all states to join the Initiative and all participating states to attend the conference at the highest level.  

To date, 118 states from all regions of the world have joined the Global IHL Initiative. Twenty-seven of these states have co-led seven thematic workstreams, developing practical guidance on increasing respect for IHL and addressing the challenges posed by contemporary warfare. This guidance builds on a consistent theme that emerged from states throughout the process: the need to preserve and give effect to the protective purpose of IHL.  

The Global IHL Initiative addresses issues relevant to contemporary armed conflicts and stakeholders worldwide, seeking to ensure the impartial, consistent and universal application of existing IHL obligations. It acknowledges that states bear the primary responsibility for upholding, implementing and applying the Geneva Conventions in all circumstances, including in situations of occupation. Gathered in New York today, we also recognize the important role played by the United Nations and the wider multilateral system in promoting respect for IHL and supporting its effective implementation. 

Since their adoption in 1949, the Geneva Conventions have helped to protect the lives and dignity of millions of people. However, the suffering witnessed in today’s armed conflicts around the world is a stark reminder that the most fundamental rules of these conventions are not being respected. 

We call on all world leaders to unite around this shared responsibility at the High-Level Conference in Jordan. The world cannot stand idly by as the basic tenets of international humanitarian law are routinely and systematically violated. 

We can put an end to the inconceivable and unconscionable suffering and destruction that characterize today's conflicts and work towards peaceful resolutions. 

Together, we must uphold humanity in war. (ICRC Press Release; Photo by Bianca Oter; Written and Edited by Jun Enriquez, Digital-Mobile Journalist)

 

Diyandi Festival in Iligan City, "One Culture, One Heritage, One celebration"

 

 

By Jun Enriquez

ILIGAN CITY (September 1, 2026) – Every September Iligan City celebrates Diyandi Festival, a tradition rooted in the Higaonon word “Diyandi” meaning celebration. Officially institutionalized in 2004, the festival culminates on September 29, the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel, Iligan’s Patron Saint and protector.

More than a fiesta, Diyandi embodies the enduring harmony of the city’s tri-people, the Higaonon, Muslim and Christian communities, united under one heritage, one culture and one celebration.

The festivities begin with the sacred “Pagpananghid” ritual, followed by the revered Pagpakanaog procession and nine day novena in honor of Sr, San Miguel.  Cultural highlights include the sacred Diyandi dance, the lively Yawa-yawa, the Sinulog tradition, and the colorful Kasadya sa Diyandi showcase, each performance reflecting Iligan’s collective identity, bound by faith, respect and peace that will highlight Iligan’s diverse traditions, drawing visitors and locals alike into a vibrant cultural experience.

Hon. Frederick W. Siao, Mayor, Iligan City

Mayor Frederick W. Siao, underscores the festival’s deeper significance, “Ang Diyandi dili lamang usa ka fiesta celebration nga atong gina-celebrate ug ginasaulog. Kini usa ka tradisyon nga atong gustong ipadayon, usa ka kultura nga atong gipanalipdan, ug usa ka pagkaila nga atong ipasa sa sunod nga generations. 

The Diyandi festival returns this September as Iligan City’s Premier cultural tourism event, reaffirming its place as a living tradition that unites communities and strengthen local identity. The festival was formally institutionalized in 2004 and culminates on September 29, the feast of St. Michael Archangel, Iligan’s Patron Saint and protector.

Diyande is a cultural bridge that brings together the city’s Tri-people in a shared celebration of heritage and faith. The festivities open with the sacred Pagpananghid ritual, followed by the revered Pagpakanaog nine-day procession and novena. 

Guided by the Diyandi Executive Management Board, the festival has grown into one of Northern Mindanao’s premier cultural tourism events, drawing visitors and locals alike to witness the unity of Iliganon's heritage.

Atty. Riezel Reen P. Angas, RN, EMB Chairperson

Atty. Riezel Reen P. Angas, RN, EMB Chairperson, highlighted the festival’s unifying role, “Despite our differences, It’s one culture, one heritage, one celebration. Our direction towards this Diyandi is to bring all three groups together as one Iliganon, while honoring the feast of our patron Saint, Señor San Miguel.”

Finally, Atty. Angas said that Iligan is a diverse city. We have different cultural communities, different religious traditions, different backgrounds, and different generations. We Have people whose families have been for generations and people whose families have been here for generations and people whose families came from different parts of Mindanao and the Philippines. All of these have contributed to what Iligan is today. So when we say “One culture,” we are talking about unity arising from diversity. (CIO Press Release; Written and Edited by Jun Enriquez, Digital-Mobile Journalist)

 

Mensahe ni Iligan City Mayor Frederick W. Siao Kabahin sa Rally sa Katawhang Iliganon batok sa pagsaka sa presyo sa Kuryente sa dakbayan sa Iligan

Hon. Frederick W. Siao, Mayor of Iligan City

\

  By Jun Enriquez

Iligan City (Septembre 12, 2026) -  Sa tanang mga nitambong karong adlawa, sa mga organizers, participants, ug mga miyembro sa PIPOL POWER–Iligan Rally and March, ug labaw sa tanan, sa atong mga kaigsuonan nga Iliganon, maayong adlaw kaninyong tanan.

Ania ako karon sa inyong atubangan aron ipahibalo kaninyo nga nakasabot ko sa kabug-at nga inyong gibati tungod sa pagsaka sa presyo sakuryente. Naminaw ug nakasabot kami sa City Government of Iligan sa inyong mga kabalaka, ug karon gusto namong ipadayag ang among bug-os nga suporta niining panagtapok alang sa mas makatarunganon, transparent, ug accountable nga serbisyo sa kuryente alang sa tanang Iliganon.

Ang padayon nga pagsaka sa presyo sa kuryente usa ka problema nga dili nato angay pasagdan. Matag pagsaka sa atong bayranan sa kuryente direktang gibati sa atong mga pamilya, mga trabahante, mga negosyo, ug sa tibuok komunidad. Ang dugang nga atong gibayad sa kuryente, mahimo na unta nga usa ka kilo o duha ka kilo nga bugas, usa ka sud-an, o pagkaon na para sa pamilya.

Mga pinalangga kong Iliganon, ma-assure tamo nga wala nato pasagdi ang inyong mga tingog. Padayon kitang nakig-coordinate  ug nakigtambayayong sa mga concerned offices ug ahensya, sama sa ILPI, Energy Regulatory Commission, Department of Energy, PSALM, ug National Power Corporation, aron mapadayon nato ang atong paningkamot sa pagpangita og hustong mga solusyon sa atong problema sa kuryente.

Atong gisuportahan ang panawagan alang sa mas ubos ug makatarunganon nga power rates, klaro ug transparent nga mga bayranan, ug kasaligan nga serbisyo sa kuryente. Gisuportahan usab nato ang panawagan nga mahatagan og hustong pagtagad ang power requirements sa Iligan, lakip na ang atong panawagan alang sa 25-megawatt power allocation alang sa atong siyudad.

Isip siyudad nga nag-host sa dagkong Agus Hydroelectric Power Plants, atong gituohan nga ang mga Iliganon angay usab makabenepisyo sa atong mga energy resources. Mao nga padayon ang atong paningkamot nga masiguro nga ang atong mga pamilya, mga negosyo, ug ang tibuok siyudad makatagamtam og mas kasaligan nga suplay sa kuryente.

Ug karon, adunay maayong balita alang sa atong mga Iliganon. Gidawat ug gi-welcome nato ang desisyon sa Energy Regulatory Commission o ERC nga i-recalculate ang electricity prices alang sa August 2026 billing period, nga mahimong maghatag og angay nga adjustment o kahupayan sa atong mga konsumante. Mapasalamaton kita nga adunay aksyon nga gihimo, apan atong bantayanang pagpatuman niini aron masiguro nga ang angay nga relief tinuod nga maabot ug mabati sa matag Iliganon.

Apan dili pa kita mohunong dinhi. Ang atong panawagan nagpabilin—mas ubos, makatarunganon, ug kasaligan nga presyo sakuryente alang sa matag Iliganon. Padayon nato nga ipadayag ang atong mga kabalaka, padayon kitang mangayo og hustong aksyon, ug padayon kitang magkahiusa hangtod makita ug mabati gyud nato ang tinuod nga kahupayan sa atong mga bayranan. Kini nga lakang usa lamang ka sugod, dili pa ang katapusan sa atong panawagan.

Ang atong panawagan dili batok kang bisan kinsa. Kini usa ka panawagan alang sa atong katawhan alang sa patas nga serbisyo, makatarunganon nga bayranan, ug mas maayong kaugmaon alang sa Iligan. Gusto lang nato nga ang atong mga kabalaka paminawon ug ang atong mga panawagan tagaan og hustong aksyon.

Maong mga igsoon kong Iliganon, mangayo usab ko sa inyong tabang. Buhaton sa City Government of Iligan ang among bahin. Padayon kitang makig-coordinate ug makigtambayayong sa ILPI, ERC, DOE, PSALM, NPC, ug sa ubang concerned offices ug ahensya. Apan mas lig-on ang atong panawagan kung kita nga mga Iliganon magkahiusa. Ang inyong tingog, inyong presensya, ug inyong padayon nga pagpangayo og aksyon makatabang aron mas madungog ang atong mga kabalaka ug mas seryosong tagdon ang atong mga panawagan.

Sa tanan nga niapil niining rally ug march, gusto namong ipahibalo kaninyo nga wala kamo nag-inusara. Ang City Government of Iligan anaa kanunay sa inyong luyo. Padayon kaming maminaw sa inyong mga kabalaka, makigtambayayong sa mga concerned agencies, ug mangita og mga paagi aron maprotektahan ang kaayohan sa atong mga Iliganon.

Ang inyong tingog mao usab ang tingog sa atong siyudad.

Busa, magpadayon kita sa pagtinabangay ug pagbarog alang sa usa ka Iligan nga adunay kasaligan, makatarunganon, ug angay nga kuryente alang sa tanan.

Daghang salamat sa inyong pagbarog alang sa atong mga kaigsuonan.

Kanunay ania kami, ang City Government of Iligan, kauban ug katimbang sa atong katawhan. Maong atong isaulog ang atong panaghiusa, atong ipaabot ang atong mga tingog, ug atong ipadayon ang atong panawagan. Magpadayon kita, hinay-hinay apan sigurado, kauban ang usa'g usa. Daghang salamat, ug padayon, Asenso Iliganon! (Gipasa gikan sa CIO; Gisulat ug Gihan-ay ni Jun Enriquez, Digital-Mobile Journalist)

Peace challenges of the successful First BARMM Parliamentary Elections

 

 

By Jun Enriquez

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (Sept 14, 2026) - A Press conference regarding the issues and concerns in the conduct of the First Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary elections through the Provincial Election Monitoring Action Center (PEMAC) in Lanao del Sur was held at the 103rd Haribon Brigade Kampo Ranaw Philippine Army in Marawi City.

Guests present during the said event were BGen Jessie R. Montoya, Philippine Army (PA), Commander of the 103rd Infantry Haribon Brigade, PA. BGen Montoya said that their main responsibility is to protect the civilians in the province during the casting of votes in polling precincts in every municipality.

 

(Left to right) BGen Jessie R. Montoya, PA, Brigade Commander, 103rd Brigade PA; Atty. Mohammad Nabil Mutia, Provincial Election Supervisor, COMELEC Lanao del Sur; PCol Caesar P. Cabuhat, PNP Provincial Director., Lanao del Sur

 

The main Guest of the event was Atty. Mohammad Nabil Mutia, Provincial Election Supervisor of the Commission on Election (COMELEC) through the PEMAC in the province of Lanao del Sur. He said Lanao del Sur is the most peaceful province during the conduct of 1st BARMM Parliamentary Elections because there was no untoward incidence happened. 

 

Atty. Mutia said, there were about 79 teachers did not show up to serve as Election board of canvassers in polling precincts but were being replaced by 79 PNP Electoral boards during the day of the election assigned in the vacated polling precincts as it was confirmed by PCol Caesar P. Cabuhat, Provincial Director of PNP Lanao del Sur. The voting time of the elections started at around 5:00 A.M and ended at 7:00 P.M.. Voting machines in trouble which will not functioning has been replaced immediately because there are few spares voting machines readily available. Atty. Mutia said that the voting machines are using starlink internet signal to process voting results. 

Mutia said, the voting results will be processed through the Consolidating Cavass System (CCS) and will be transferred and submitted in just 3 minutes from voting precincts in the municipalities to the Provincial COMELEC Board. The winning candidates in the province, especially the winning Districting candidates will be proclaimed by the Provincial Board of Canvassers.

In addition, all results of the CCS from the Provincial Board will be submitted to the Regional Board of canvassers for consolidation of the results, especially the voting results casted of the Regional parties and sectoral candidates will depend on the computation results of the Provincial Board of canvassers.

Other guests attended the said event were coming from the Philippine National Police (PNP), PCol Caesar P. Cabuhat, Provincial Director, PNP Lanao del Sur, and PBGen Jemuel F. Siason, Deputy Regional Director for Administration, PNP BARMM. 

PBGen Jemuel F. Siason, Deputy Regional Director for  Administration, PNP BARMM

PBGen Siason said that Cotabato is under COMELEC control, including the municipality of Maluso, Basilan. He said, the PNP BARMM provides maximum security in the region under the supervision of the COMELEC to maintain peace and order, to secure the BARMM Parliamentary Elections under the COMELEC supervision to provide security together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the PNP. In related development about the issues and concerns of the election is to share information updating the situation of the conduct of the First BARMM Parliamentary elections held September 14, 2026, and another issues was about the peace and security situation in the region.

Atty Mutia said that the conduct of Parliamentary elections in BARMM, especially in Lanao del Sur during the day was very peaceful without untoward incidence and violence.

There are about 2.39 million voters to cast their votes in the first BARMM Parliamentary election. Generally, as information gathered, there are a total of 80 seats to be elected in the BARMM Parliament, 40 seats are coming from the Regional Party, 32 seats are coming from District representatives , and Eight (8) seats are coming from sectoral representatives. 

 

The Partial results of the elections Regional parties, with which the Bangsamoro Federalist Party (BFP) garnered 16 seats, the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP) garnered 15 seats, the BARMM Grand Coalition (BGC) garnered Eight (8) seats and One (1) seat coming from BPDP/RAAYAT Party. 

In the BARMM districting election partial results with 10 seats coming from UBJP, 13 seats from BFP, Six (6) seats from BGC, One (1) seat from PRO Bangsamoro Party, One (1) seat from ITIHAD Party, and One (1) seat coming from Independent.

Election results from sectoral representatives garnered Six (6) seats from UBJP representing the settlers community, Women, Youth, Ulama and Traditional leader, and Two (2) seats from the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) sector. All the results of the elections still on partial situation. Final election results will be declared by the Regional Commission in the next few days. 

 

During the day of the election, there was a shootout happened in Cotabato City with three (3) dead and 15 wounded due to rivalry of political supporters of UBJP and BFP in Datu Usman Mampen school site in Barangay Bagua 2, Cotabato City. The commotion happened outside the school on the eve of the elections.

 

Another one (1) person died and three (3) others wounded after violence erupted at the pilot Central Elementary School in Cotabato City. COMELEC Chairman Atty. George Erwin Garcia is hoping for about 65%-70% voters turnout in BARMM polls.  

 

In recent development, the Commission shared information regarding the tension in the municipality of Al-Barka, Basilan due to the incident involving the MILF and other partisan groups, while in the municipality of Maluso, Basilan considered that their was a poll fraud of having pre-shaded ballots composed of 36 ballot boxes invalidated, the main reason to reprint another ballots in the National printing office in Quezon City and brought on its way to Basilan at around 3:00 P.M. on the same day. 

 

COMELEC Chairman Garcia, decided to move the ending of the voting time in the aforementioned place of Basilan for two (2) hours from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. on the same day of the election. A total of 16,563 official ballots of the 36 polling precincts were pre-shaded prompting the commission to reprint new ballots again for a votation.

 

In another recent development, COMELEC Chairman Garcia, released a statement with regards to the BARMM Parliamentary Elections (BPE) recorded the highest voters turnout at 84.34 percent represents a total of 2,018,478 voters cast their votes who participated in the BPE elections with a total registered voters at 2,393,202. (Presscon; Press release; Written and Edited by Jun Enriquez, Digital-Mobile Journalist)

Inflation Report: Highlighting the CPI (2018=100) in the City of Iligan and Province of Lanao del Norte for the month of August 2026

 

By Jun Enriquez

ILIGAN CITY (September 14, 2026) - The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) of Lanao del Norte based in Iligan City shared information updating the Inflation Report highlighting the Consumers Price Index (CPI) in Iligan City and Lanao del Norte. This information was shared by the PSA information office headed by Ms. Brenda Lynn M. Castro, Officer-in-Charge (OIC).

Consumers Price Index in Iligan City

Iligan City’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) for August 2026 was recorded at 134.9. This implies that, on average, the prices of goods and services commonly purchased by consumers were 34.9 percent higher compared with their price levels in the 2018 base year.

The CPI is an indicator that measures changes over time in the average retail prices that represents basket of goods and services.

Among the commodity groups, Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco recorded the highest CPI in August 2026 at 166.2, followed by Transport at 150.4 and Financial Services at 145.9. Meanwhile, the commodity groups with the lowest CPI in August 2026 were Information and Communication at 102.0, Clothing and Footwear at 115.9, and Recreation, Sport, and Culture at 118.3.

On August 2026 inflation rate of Iligan City increased to 8.2 percent from 7.9 percent in July 2026, marking a 0.3 percentage-point acceleration. Moreover, it remained significantly higher than the 0.2 percent inflation rate posted in August 2025. This indicates that the prices of goods and services continued to increase at a higher rate compared with the same month of the previous year.

Main Drivers to the Uptrend of the Overall Inflation

The acceleration in the August 2026 inflation was primarily driven by faster increases in the inflation rates of several major commodity groups. Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels recorded the highest inflation rate at 18.0 percent, higher by 1.2 percentage points from 16.8 percent in July 2026. This was followed by Transport, which posted an inflation rate of 17.8 percent, up by 1.4 percentage points from 16.4 percent in the previous month. 

The upward trend in August 2026 inflation was also influenced by the faster annual increase in the index of Restaurants and Accommodation Services, which rose to 1.4 percent from 1.2 percent in July 2026.

On the other hand, slower increases in the indices were observed in Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages; Information and Communication; and Recreation, Sport, and Culture, which limited the acceleration in the August 2026 inflation.

Meanwhile, the indices of the remaining commodity groups remained at their previous month’s annual rates.

Main Contributors to Overall Inflation

The Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels commodity group remained the largest contributor to the August 2026 inflation, accounting for 44.9 percent or 3.68 percentage points of the overall inflation. The higher inflation in this commodity group was primarily attributed to the prices in Actual Rentals for Housing.

This was followed by Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages, which accounted for 23.0 percent or 1.89 percentage points of the overall inflation. The higher inflation in this commodity group was primarily influenced by the Cereals and cereal products, particularly Rice.

The Transport commodity group ranked as the third largest contributor, accounting for 17.1 percent or 1.40 percentage points of the overall inflation. The higher inflation in this commodity group was largely driven by the prices of Fuels and lubricants for personal transport equipment, particularly Gasoline.

Collectively, these three commodity groups accounted for 85.0 percent or 6.97 percentage points of the 8.2 percent overall inflation in August 2026, indicating that they were the major sources of price movements during the month.

Food Inflation

Food inflation in Iligan City slowed to 4.3 percent in August 2026 from 4.8 percent in the previous month. In August 2025, food inflation recorded an annual decrease of 0.8 percent.

Main Contributors to Food Inflation

The top three food groups in terms of contribution to the food inflation during the month were the following:

a. Cereals and cereal products, which include rice, corn, flour, bread and other bakery products, pasta products, and other cereals, with 111.7 percent share or 4.80 percentage points;

b. Fish and other seafood with a share of 10.6 percent or 0.46 percentage point; and

c. Ready-made food and other food products not elsewhere classified, with a share of 6.1 percent or 0.26 percentage point.

Purchasing Power of Peso (PPP)

The Purchasing Power of the Peso (PPP) measures the value of the peso in the current period relative to 2018, the base year. It reflects the amount of goods and services that one peso can purchase over time.

In August 2026, the purchasing power of the peso (PPP) in Iligan City was recorded at 0.74. This indicates that an amount of ₱100.00 in the base year 2018 is equivalent to only ₱74.00 worth of goods and services in August 2026. This reflects a decline in the real value of the peso over time.

Consumer Price Index in Lanao del Norte

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Lanao del Norte was recorded at 133.7 in August 2026, indicating that the average price level of a fixed basket of goods and services increased by 33.7 percent compared with the 2018 base year.

The CPI is an indicator used to measure changes over time in the average retail prices of a fixed basket of goods and services commonly purchased by consumers. The CPI of Lanao del Norte for August 2025 and August 2026, with 2018 as the base year. 

Among the commodity groups, Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco recorded the highest Consumer Price Index (CPI) in August 2026 at 177.0, followed by Transport at 163.5, and Financial Services at 146.0. In contrast, the lowest CPI levels were observed in information and Communication at 109.5, Education Services at 110.3, and Clothing and Footwear at 126.4.

Overall Inflation

The inflation rate in August 2026 accelerated to 8.5 percent from 8.3 percent in July 2026, or an increase of 0.2 percentage point. This was significantly higher than the -2.1 percent inflation rate recorded in August 2025, indicating a substantial acceleration in the annual increase in consumer prices.

Main Drivers to the Upward Trend of the Overall Inflation

The acceleration in the headline inflation in August 2026 was primarily attributed to the faster annual increase in the Transport index, which registered an inflation rate of 23.2 percent, up from 21.4 percent in July 2026. 

Also contributing to the uptrend in inflation in Lanao del Norte was the faster annual increase in the Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels index, which registered an inflation rate of 11.9 percent in August 2026, up from 11.3 percent in July 2026.

On the other hand, slower annual increases in the indices were observed in Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages, Clothing and Footwear; Health, Recreation, Sport and Culture, Restaurants and Accommodation Services and Personal Care and Miscellaneous Goods and Services.

Meanwhile, the indices of the remaining commodity groups remained at their previous month’s annual rates.

Main Contributors to Overall Inflation

The Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages commodity group remained the primary driver of the August 2026 inflation, contributing 43.7 percent or 3.72 percentage points to the overall inflation rate. The increase was largely attributed to Cereals and cereal products, which registered the largest contribution within the commodity group.yhg54

This was followed by Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels, which accounted for 22.8 percent or 1.94 percentage points of the overall inflation. The increase in this commodity group was primarily influenced by Actual Rentals for Housing.

The Transport commodity group ranked as the third largest contributor, accounting for 18.4 percent or 1.56 percentage points of overall inflation. The increase was largely driven by the prices of Fuels and lubricants.

Collectively, these three commodity groups contributed 84.9 percent, or 7.22 percentage points, to the overall 8.5 percent inflation rate in August 2026, indicating that they were the major contributors to the province's inflation during the month.

Food Inflation

Food inflation in Lanao del Norte eased to 7.4 percent in August 2026 from the recorded 7.5 percent inflation in July 2026. In August 2025, food inflation recorded an annual decrease of 4.7 percent.

The top three food groups in terms of contribution to the food inflation during the month were the following:

a. Cereals and cereal products, which include rice, corn, flour, bread and other bakery products, pasta products, and other cereals, with 85.0 percent share or 6.29 percentage points;

b. Fish and other seafood with a share of 9.5 percent or 0.71 percentage point; and

c. Ready-made food and other food products not elsewhere classified with a share of 4.8 percent or 0.35 percentage point.

Purchasing Power of Peso (PPP)

The Purchasing Power of the Peso (PPP) measures the value of the peso in the current period relative to the 2018 base year, indicating the quantity of goods and services that one peso can purchase over time.

In August 2026, the PPP in Lanao del Norte was estimated at ₱ 0.75, implying that an amount of ₱100.00 in 2018 would have the equivalent purchasing capacity of only 75.0 percent in August 2026. (PSA Special Releaese; Written and Edited by Jun Enriquez, Digital-Mobile Journalist) 

Why the world cannot normalize the killing of those who help

On World Humanitarian Day, Kate Forbes, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and Mirjana Spoljaric, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, call for stronger action to protect humanitarian personnel and preserve the space for humanitarian work.

 

By Jun Enriquez  

ICRC (19 August 2026) - On World Humanitarian Day, we rightly celebrate the courage of humanitarian workers and volunteers. But honouring their bravery and commitment while aid workers are being killed in record numbers is not enough.

So far this year, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement has mourned 12 colleagues killed in violence-related incidents while carrying out their work. Last year, that number stood at 24.

We must not allow the targeting of aid workers to become normalized. Today there is a real risk that the world comes to accept that humanitarian personnel will be attacked, injured or killed as “part of the job” or an inevitable feature of today’s crises.

The answer cannot be to ask our colleagues to be braver. The answer must be to make it possible for them to do their jobs safely.

 

The reality on the ground

Every day, somewhere in the world, a humanitarian worker sets out knowing they may not return home. They are medics, drivers, engineers and volunteers. Their courage is extraordinary. But courage does not stop bullets or guarantee safe passage.

The risks are also becoming harder to navigate. In an increasingly polarized environment, facts are contested, trust is fragile and falsehoods spread quickly. Political leaders, public figures, media and online platforms all shape the environment in which humanitarian action takes place.

Rhetoric that dehumanizes humanitarian workers, casts suspicion on impartial assistance or erodes trust in the emblems can make already dangerous work even more dangerous. Harmful information campaigns deliberately targeted at aid workers often do not remain online. They can have real-world consequences in terms of the danger and hostility our teams face while carrying out their work.

 

Protection requires action

The safety of our colleagues depends on governments and parties to armed conflicts upholding their obligations under international humanitarian law. We are encouraged that 122 states have signed the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel, and are hopeful that this renewed commitment will translate into concrete measures to strengthen the safety and security of aid workers.

Expressions of support for humanitarian workers matter, but words must be matched by decisions from those with power and influence to uphold the rules, defend the space for humanitarian action and make choices that allow aid workers to reach people and return home.

Protecting humanitarian personnel is not a favour to our organizations. It is an obligation and, more importantly, a lifeline for every person who will one day depend on an ambulance that arrives, a volunteer who stays or an aid worker who is able to reach them because the world has preserved the space to do so safely. (ICRC Press release; Written and Edited by Jun Enriquez, Digital-Mobile Journalism)