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Wed. Jul 29th, 2026

The Mindanao Sentinel

Official Youtube channel of The Mindanao Sentinel that provides daily news around Mindanao.

A small eatery owner in Davao City is warning fellow entrepreneurs after being deceived into buying what appeared to be discounted cooking oil—only to discover that almost the entire container was filled with water.
The victim, Maria Catamco, said she was offered cooking oil at ₱65 per kilo, around ₱25 cheaper than the prevailing market price. The seller claimed the product came directly from a factory, making the low price seem believable. Hoping to save on business expenses, she purchased one container.
When she later opened it, she was shocked to find that only a small plastic bag inside contained actual cooking oil, while the rest of the container was filled with water.
Maria shared her experience on social media to warn owners of eateries, mini stores, and fried chicken businesses to be extra cautious when approached with deals that seem too good to be true.
"Please double-check before buying. I'm sharing this so others won't become victims of this dishonest scheme. God bless us all."
In a positive development, the suspect behind the alleged scam has reportedly been arrested and is now under the custody of the San Pedro Police Station for appropriate legal proceedings.
Authorities are reminding the public to verify the authenticity of products before making purchases and to immediately report suspicious sellers to the nearest police station.
If the price is unbelievably low, take a closer look—it could cost you far more than the money you hoped to save.

BUYER BEWARE: Davao Eatery Owner Falls Victim to Cooking Oil Scam

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte — Authorities are investigating an alleged case of domestic violence after a viral closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage showed a woman carrying a child being physically assaulted by a man in Poblacion, Tubod, Lanao del Norte, on the afternoon of July 25, 2026.
The incident reportedly occurred at approximately 4:57 p.m., with the CCTV footage capturing what appeared to be a shirtless man physically attacking a woman while she was holding a young child. The video quickly spread across various social media platforms, drawing widespread condemnation from netizens and reigniting discussions on violence against women and children.
Based on the circulating footage, the woman appeared defenseless as she clutched the child during the alleged assault, prompting concern from the public over the safety of both the victim and the infant. Many social media users expressed outrage over the incident, with numerous commenters calling for swift legal action against the suspect and urging authorities to ensure the protection of the woman and the child.
The viral video also prompted reminders from concerned citizens about the importance of recognizing warning signs of abusive relationships and seeking help when faced with domestic violence. Several online users stressed the need for victims to report abuse and encouraged communities to support individuals experiencing violence within their homes.
As of this writing, authorities have yet to officially identify the individuals involved. Initial reports also could not immediately confirm whether the man and the woman were legally married or living together as common-law partners.
Law enforcement authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including the events leading to the alleged assault and the possible criminal liabilities that may be filed against the suspect.
Should the allegations be substantiated, the incident may constitute violations of Philippine laws protecting women and children from abuse, including provisions under the Republic Act No. 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children (VAWC) Act of 2004, depending on the findings of the investigation and the relationship between the parties involved.
Authorities have not yet released information on the condition of the woman and the child or whether formal complaints have already been filed.
The incident has once again highlighted the continuing challenge of domestic violence in the country, with advocates emphasizing that abuse within intimate relationships should never be tolerated and that victims should be encouraged to seek assistance from law enforcement agencies, local government social welfare offices, and organizations providing support services for survivors of violence.
Police have urged anyone with additional information regarding the incident to cooperate with investigators as they continue to determine the facts and ensure that appropriate legal action is taken based on the evidence gathered.

Woman Allegedly Assaulted by Partner in Tubod, Lanao del Norte; CCTV Footage Sparks Public Outrage

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM — Vice President Sara Duterte received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from thousands of members of the Filipino community upon her arrival in London on Saturday, July 25, where she attended the gathering "Mahalin Natin ang Pilipinas: Pagtitipon para sa Kapayapaan at Kaunlaran" (Love the Philippines: A Gathering for Peace and Progress).
The event brought together Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and other members of the Filipino community from across the United Kingdom, many of whom gathered to personally see and hear the Vice President. The atmosphere was filled with cheers and expressions of support as attendees welcomed her to the event.
In her message following the gathering, Vice President Duterte expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Filipinos working in the United Kingdom for their unwavering dedication, sacrifices, and continued support.
"Your kindness, unity, and love for your families and country are deeply appreciated. May you continue to be blessed with good health, success, and happiness," the Vice President said.
The gathering highlighted the strong ties between the Filipino community abroad and the Philippines while emphasizing unity, peace, and national progress. Additional official statements and updates regarding the event are expected to follow.
The strong turnout was viewed by supporters as a significant display of public backing for Vice President Duterte despite the ongoing impeachment trial against her. The reception also contrasted with some of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s previous overseas visits, during which groups of Overseas Filipino Workers and activists staged protest actions instead of organizing similar welcome gatherings. The differing receptions reflect the continuing political divisions among Filipinos, both at home and overseas.

THOUSANDS OF FILIPINOS GIVE VP SARA DUTERTE A HERO'S WELCOME IN LONDON

A social media content creator from Mindanao is facing widespread public condemnation after videos containing derogatory remarks about the Manobo and T'boli Indigenous Peoples circulated online, prompting the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) in Sultan Kudarat to denounce the statements as discriminatory and contrary to the rights guaranteed under Philippine law.
Gino Morales, the vlogger behind Binuang Blog GTV, which reportedly has around 47,000 followers, drew intense criticism after a now-deleted video allegedly described members of the Manobo Tribe using offensive stereotypes, calling them "damak" (dirty), "wala tuli" (uncircumcised), and "mabahò" (smelly). The remarks quickly spread across social media, where many netizens, Indigenous leaders, and advocates described them as insulting, degrading, and harmful to Indigenous communities.
Further outrage followed after another vlog allegedly referred to members of the T'boli Indigenous Cultural Community as "damak" or dirty, extending the controversy beyond the initial remarks directed at the Manobo.
The videos triggered an avalanche of criticism online, with many users emphasizing that Indigenous Peoples have long faced discrimination and marginalization, making such statements especially damaging when amplified by a public figure with thousands of followers.
Public apology issued
Following the backlash, Morales and another individual, who are both reportedly members of the Manobo Tribe, released a separate video publicly apologizing for their actions.
In the apology, Morales knelt while asking for forgiveness, expressing remorse for the content they had produced.
"Kame po ay humihinge nang taos pusong pasensiya... sa aming ginawang content noong nakaraang araw. Humihinge rin po kami nang kapatawaran sa aming nagawang pagkakamali. Naway mapatawad niyo po kami. Hindi po namin sinasadyang makasakit ng damdamin ng aming kapwa."
He also addressed fellow members of the Manobo community in their local language, asking for their forgiveness and promising not to repeat the incident.
However, several social media users pointed out that while the apology addressed the offensive remarks made against the Manobo community, it did not specifically acknowledge or apologize for the derogatory comments directed at the T'boli people. This omission drew additional criticism from Indigenous advocates and members of the T'boli community, who said both groups deserved equal recognition and respect.
NCIP issues statement of condemnation
Amid the growing controversy, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) – Sultan Kudarat Provincial Office released an official statement strongly condemning the content creator's remarks.
The agency described the statements as "blatantly disrespectful and offensive" toward the Manobo Dulangan and T'boli Indigenous Cultural Communities.
According to the NCIP, such remarks constitute a form of racial discrimination that promotes prejudice against Indigenous Peoples and have no place in a society that upholds human dignity, equality, and cultural diversity.
The commission cited Republic Act No. 8371, or the Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997, particularly Section 21, which guarantees Indigenous Cultural Communities and Indigenous Peoples equal protection under the law and safeguards them against discrimination.
The law affirms that Indigenous Peoples are entitled to the full measure of human rights and fundamental freedoms without distinction or discrimination and mandates the State to recognize, respect, and protect these rights.
The NCIP also disclosed that it is coordinating with the concerned Indigenous Cultural Communities and other appropriate authorities to determine the proper course of action, including the possibility of an amicable settlement, while leaving open the option of pursuing appropriate legal remedies should circumstances warrant.
Respect for Indigenous Peoples
The incident has reignited discussions on the responsibilities of social media personalities and content creators, particularly those with substantial online audiences.
Advocates stressed that freedom of expression does not excuse discriminatory speech or the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes against Indigenous Peoples, whose cultures, traditions, and identities are protected under the Constitution and national laws.
The NCIP reminded the public that while everyone has the right to express themselves, that freedom must always be exercised responsibly and with respect for the dignity, identity, and cultural heritage of others.
The commission likewise urged the public to practice cultural sensitivity, reject discriminatory language, and help build an inclusive society where all Indigenous Cultural Communities are treated with respect and equality.

Vlogger faces backlash after derogatory remarks against Manobo and T'boli communities

What should have been a celebration of South Cotabato's rich culture, unity, and pride was unfortunately marred by a series of street rumbles involving different groups—mostly young individuals—during the recently concluded T'nalak Festival.
These videos, taken from different locations and at different times, show scenes that no festivalgoer wants to witness: punches thrown, people running in panic, and violent confrontations that reportedly left several individuals injured and caused public disturbance.
Festivals are meant to create memories—not victims.
While thousands came to enjoy the street dancing, concerts, food fairs, and the vibrant spirit of T'nalak, a few chose violence over celebration, putting innocent spectators, families, children, and fellow revelers at risk.
This compilation is not shared to glorify violence, but to raise awareness and remind everyone that public celebrations demand responsibility from all of us. A single fight can quickly escalate into chaos, endangering lives and tarnishing the reputation of an event that countless people worked hard to organize.
Authorities are expected to review these incidents to identify those involved and determine whether criminal charges are warranted. Parents, community leaders, and schools also play a vital role in guiding our youth away from violence and toward respect and discipline.
Let's ensure that next year's T'nalak Festival is remembered for its culture, music, and unity—not for viral videos of street fights.
Violence has no place in any festival. Celebrate with pride. Celebrate with respect.
#TnalakFestival #SouthCotabato #FestivalSafety #PeaceNotViolence #MindanaoSentinel
Ken Fuentes Macaya, Rina Joy, Yoyo Arrozcado

FROM DANCE BATTLES TO STREET BRAWLS? THIS IS NOT THE T'NALAK FESTIVAL WE DESERVE.

DAVAO CITY – A dramatic video showing the ground visibly moving moments before a massive landslide struck Sitio Marahan in Barangay Marilog Proper has revealed the terrifying sequence of events that led to the collapse of a section of the Davao–Bukidnon Road on Friday evening, July 17.
The footage, captured by Rechel Pacaña Vlog, showed two men entering a house at around 5:00 p.m. to retrieve important belongings after residents had already begun evacuating due to signs of an impending landslide.
However, the men quickly rushed out after noticing that the ground had started to shift beneath them. Witnesses said they could both see and feel the earth moving as cracks on the roadway widened by the minute.
Residents described hearing unusual sounds while watching the fissures gradually expand, confirming that the hillside was becoming increasingly unstable following hours of continuous rainfall.
Just over two hours later, at around 7:00 p.m., a large portion of the road finally gave way.
The collapse triggered a landslide that severely damaged four houses, although no casualties were reported as residents had already evacuated to safer areas before the slope completely failed.
The incident occurred along Purok 39, Sitio Marahan, Barangay Marilog Proper, where prolonged heavy rains saturated the soil, causing the slope supporting the national highway to collapse.
Videos circulating online showed a massive section of the roadway breaking apart and sliding downhill, leaving behind a wide chasm and rendering the highway completely impassable.
According to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region XI, the affected section of the Davao–Bukidnon Road remains closed to all types of vehicles after a road slip caused by heavy rainfall.
Authorities have declared the highway not passable to all vehicles while engineers continue assessing the extent of the damage and determine the necessary stabilization and repair works.
As a temporary measure, light vehicles are being advised to use the alternate route via:
Davao–Bukidnon Road – Datu Ladayon – Katipunan – Campo Uno
Motorists traveling between Davao City and Bukidnon are urged to avoid the affected area and monitor official advisories as road conditions remain hazardous.
Personnel from the DPWH Davao City II District Engineering Office have been deployed to conduct technical assessments, monitor slope stability, and coordinate response operations to restore access as soon as conditions become safe.
Authorities believe the continuous rainfall that has affected the area in recent days significantly weakened the mountainside, leading to the ground movement witnessed by residents before the eventual collapse.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by prolonged rains in mountainous communities, where saturated soil can rapidly trigger landslides and road failures with little warning.
Local authorities continue to monitor the area for possible additional ground movement as unstable slopes remain a concern amid continuing wet weather. Residents living near the affected hillside have likewise been advised to remain vigilant and follow evacuation instructions should further signs of land movement be observed.

Ground Movement Caught on Video Before Massive Landslide Swallows Portion of Davao–Bukidnon Road

SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao del Sur — Five people, including two soldiers and three civilians, were injured after suspected attackers hurled an explosive device at a Philippine Army vehicle along the national highway in Barangay Mother Poblacion, Shariff Aguak, on Saturday morning, July 18.
According to the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR), the incident occurred at approximately 6:26 a.m. near the town's roundabout adjacent to a mosque, sending shockwaves through the municipal center.
Initial police reports said personnel of the 2nd Special Reaction Battalion (SRB), 4th Special Reaction Company (SRC), Force Special Reconnaissance Regiment (FSRR), Special Operations Command (SOCOM), Philippine Army, were aboard a KM military truck and were en route to Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, when two unidentified men riding a black motorcycle allegedly approached and threw an object believed to be a hand grenade at the vehicle.
The explosion left two soldiers and three civilians wounded after they were struck by shrapnel. All five victims were immediately rushed to the Bangsamoro Regional Hospital and Medical Center for medical treatment.
Authorities later confirmed that all of the injured are now in stable condition.
Crime scene investigators recovered a safety lever, believed to be part of the explosive device, from the blast site. The evidence has been turned over for forensic examination as investigators work to determine the exact type of grenade used in the attack.
Police said investigators are still verifying the source of the explosive and have yet to establish the motive behind the assault.
In the wake of the explosion, PRO-BAR launched an intensive hot pursuit operation against the fleeing suspects.
Security and dragnet operations were immediately conducted across Shariff Aguak, while investigators reviewed nearby closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage and carried out area canvassing in an effort to identify the motorcycle-riding attackers.
The police have also coordinated with the Explosive and Canine Unit and the Forensic Unit to conduct further examination of the recovered evidence and reconstruct the circumstances surrounding the attack.
LGU assures public situation is under control
Following the incident, Shariff Aguak Mayor Akmad Ampatuan and Vice Mayor Hadji Oping Ampatuan issued a joint official statement confirming the explosion and assuring residents that government responders acted swiftly to secure the area.
The local government said personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Rural Health Unit (RHU), and Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) were immediately deployed to conduct rescue, medical, and security operations.
"The safety and welfare of our constituents remain our highest priority," the statement read.
The municipal government urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with authorities, and rely only on official information released by the LGU and the PNP, warning against the spread of unverified reports.
Officials also assured the public that the situation remains under control and vowed to support law enforcement efforts to identify and bring those responsible to justice.
"The peace of Shariff Aguak will prevail," the statement added.
Authorities continue to investigate whether the attack was directed specifically at the military convoy or forms part of a broader security threat in the province. No group has claimed responsibility for the explosion as of this writing.

Five Hurt as Suspected Grenade Attack Targets Army Vehicle in Shariff Aguak

CALANOGAS, Lanao del Sur — Grief has engulfed the remote municipality of Calanogas after a massive landslide triggered by relentless rains brought by Super Typhoon "Inday" buried several homes before dawn on Friday, July 10, leaving five people dead, six others still missing, and two injured.
The tragedy struck at around 2:30 a.m. in Barangay Ngingir, where days of intense rainfall saturated the mountainside, causing a huge section of earth to collapse and engulf nearby residences while many families were asleep.
Authorities described the incident as one of the most devastating landslides to hit the municipality in recent years.
Families Torn Apart
The victims who lost their lives were identified as:
Norhaya Camar
Mohsin Juhary
Naifa Mansawi
Akmad Camar
Norhana Ali
Their deaths have left grieving families and an entire community mourning lives cut short by one of nature's deadliest disasters.
Meanwhile, rescuers continue searching for the six individuals who remain missing beneath tons of mud and debris:
Mujahid Abdulmajid
Mobairah Abdulrashid
Norhasan Abdulrashid
Lilikan Arab
Norlin Ali
Norhanima Ali
Two survivors, including one whose identity has yet to be confirmed, were rescued with injuries and immediately provided medical assistance.
For the families still waiting for news of their missing loved ones, every passing hour deepens both hope and heartbreak as rescue teams race against time.
Rescue Teams Trek 10 Kilometers to Reach Disaster Site
The rescue operation has been severely hampered by widespread landslides that rendered roads impassable.
According to the Calanogas Municipal Police Station (MPS), responders—including police officers, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), local government personnel, barangay officials, and volunteer rescuers—were forced to walk nearly 10 kilometers after vehicles could no longer pass through blocked roads leading to Barangay Ngingir.
The first responders reached the isolated community at approximately 6:00 a.m., hours after the landslide struck.
Search, rescue, and retrieval operations remain underway using both manual excavation and heavy equipment, carefully digging through unstable piles of mud, rocks, and debris in hopes of finding survivors or recovering those still trapped.
Roads Cut Off by Multiple Landslides
BARMM READi Head Muhammad Abutazil confirmed that the Malabang–Calanogas Road remains closed to all traffic after multiple landslides buried sections of the highway.
The blocked road has significantly delayed rescue efforts and the delivery of humanitarian assistance to affected communities.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, BARMM Minister of the Interior and Local Government Jordan Bayam said his office immediately coordinated with the Ministry of Public Works and Highways (MPWH) to expedite the clearing of debris and reopen the vital transportation corridor, allowing additional rescue teams and relief supplies to reach the disaster area as quickly as possible.
BARMM Government Mobilizes Emergency Response
In response to the tragedy, BARMM Chief Minister Abdulraof "Sammy" Macacua ordered the immediate mobilization of relief assistance to municipalities affected by Super Typhoon "Inday."
Macacua also personally visited evacuees staying in an evacuation center in Parang, Maguindanao del Sur, where he assured displaced families that the Bangsamoro Government would continue providing humanitarian assistance while rescue operations continue in Calanogas.
Authorities said relief goods, emergency shelter materials, food packs, and other essential aid are being prepared for families affected by the disaster.
A Community United in Grief
As heavy rains continue to threaten parts of Mindanao, the tragedy in Calanogas serves as another painful reminder of the destructive power of rain-induced landslides, especially in vulnerable mountainous communities.
For the families who have lost loved ones, no amount of relief can replace the lives taken by the disaster. The entire community now waits anxiously for rescuers to locate the six missing residents, hoping against the odds that more lives can still be saved.
The thoughts and prayers of many are with the bereaved families who now face unimaginable sorrow, as well as with the courageous rescuers risking their own safety in the difficult search through unstable terrain.
Authorities continue to urge residents living in landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant and immediately evacuate whenever signs of ground movement or continuous heavy rainfall are observed, as Super Typhoon "Inday" continues to enhance the southwest monsoon, bringing dangerous weather conditions across parts of Mindanao.

5 Killed, 6 Missing as Massive Landslide Buries Homes in Lanao del Sur Amid Super Typhoon "Inday"

DAVAO CITY – A viral video showing a heated confrontation between a female passenger and a public utility jeepney (PUJ) driver on the Agdao–Matina Aplaya route has ignited discussions online, with many calling for road safety while others appealed for fairness after the driver's side of the story emerged.
The incident first gained traction after a passenger, identified on Facebook as Jennifer Empresa, posted a video claiming that the jeepney driver was driving at excessive speed, allegedly placing passengers and pedestrians at risk.
According to her account, she was so frightened during the trip that her knees were trembling. She alleged that the jeepney nearly collided with other vehicles on two separate occasions due to what she described as the driver's reckless manner of driving.
The passenger further claimed that instead of apologizing after being confronted, the driver insisted that although the jeep's engine sounded loud, the vehicle itself was not actually traveling fast.
The situation eventually drew the attention of a traffic enforcer, who stopped the jeepney and reportedly issued the driver a traffic citation.
The viral video quickly spread across social media, prompting calls from many netizens for stricter enforcement against irresponsible driving and reminding public transport operators to prioritize passenger safety.
Another Passenger Speaks Out
As public opinion continued to build, another Facebook user, Roselle Santander Cruz, said she unexpectedly encountered the same driver while riding a Matina Aplaya-bound jeep after a dental appointment.
Recognizing him from the viral video, she initiated a conversation with the driver, who identified himself as Marcial Morante.
According to Cruz's account, Morante admitted that he was the driver involved in the incident but maintained that he did not engage in an argument because the passenger was already very angry.
The driver allegedly told Cruz that he was issued a traffic ticket worth more than ₱2,000, adding that he simply earns a living driving his aging jeepney.
Morante explained that while his old jeepney produces a loud engine noise, it struggles to gain speed due to its condition. To demonstrate his point, he reportedly pressed the accelerator while Cruz was on board, showing that the vehicle accelerated slowly despite the engine's loud sound.
Cruz said that based on her personal observation during the ride, she found it difficult to believe that the jeepney could have reached the high speed alleged in the viral post, noting that it even struggled while approaching a traffic light near Kawayan Drive.
Driver Says Family Was Also Affected
Morante also reportedly shared that he has been driving jeepneys for nearly 30 years and said the incident was the first time he had been publicly accused of reckless driving.
He stressed that he would never intentionally endanger passengers because his own 10-year-old child frequently rides with him and was reportedly inside the jeep during the confrontation.
According to the driver's account, several passengers disembarked while the altercation was taking place, and his child was left traumatized by the incident.
He further claimed that the passenger allegedly threatened to have him physically assaulted, although these claims have not been independently verified.
Calls for Fairness and Responsible Social Media Use
Following Cruz's post, several netizens expressed sympathy for the driver and his family, with some offering financial assistance directly to Morante after learning that he might temporarily lose the use of the jeepney he rents for his livelihood.
Cruz also appealed to content creators and vloggers to exercise restraint before turning personal conflicts into viral online content, arguing that public exposure can have lasting consequences on the lives of ordinary workers and their families.
She emphasized that while commuters have every right to report unsafe driving, disputes should, whenever possible, be resolved respectfully and through proper authorities rather than through online humiliation.
Authorities Yet to Issue Official Statement
As of this writing, no official statement has been released by the relevant traffic authorities regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the specific traffic violation cited or the findings that led to the issuance of the citation.
The viral incident has since highlighted two equally important concerns: the need to ensure the safety of commuters on public transportation and the importance of allowing all parties an opportunity to be heard before conclusions are drawn in the court of public opinion.

Viral Davao Jeepney Incident Draws Mixed Reactions as Driver Shares His Side

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