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Irresponsible remarks linking suspects to Muslims draw backlash, calls for responsible reporting
Public criticism has mounted online after comments made by columnist and broadcaster Ramon Tulfo linked suspects in the killing of an airport official to Muslims from Lanao del Sur, prompting concerns about harmful generalizations and renewed calls for responsible reporting. The controversy began after Tulfo posted on social media about the killing of Joanna Infante,…
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Death Toll in M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 Sinking Rises to 65; Search Continues for 14 Missing
BASILAN, Philippines — The death toll from the tragic sinking of M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 has climbed to 65 after technical divers from the Philippine Coast Guard recovered another cadaver during underwater operations on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Authorities said the latest recovery was made as part of continuing search and retrieval efforts at the…
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67 Boxes of Smuggled Cigarettes Recovered in Basilan Patrol Operation
LAMITAN CITY, Basilan — Authorities recovered dozens of boxes of suspected smuggled cigarettes after they were found abandoned during a routine police patrol on Saturday afternoon, February 21, reinforcing the government’s campaign against illegal trade in the province. The Basilan Police Provincial Office reported that a total of 67 boxes of New Orleans brand cigarettes…
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₱1.2-M Worth of Suspected Smuggled Cigarettes Seized at Checkpoint in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte
PARANG, Maguindanao del Norte — Authorities intercepted more than ₱1.2 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes during an intelligence-driven anti-criminality checkpoint operation on Saturday morning, leading to the arrest of a truck driver transporting the contraband. Police identified the suspect only by the alias “Arnulfo,” 46, a resident of Barangay New Lagaw in Tacurong City.…
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Longstanding Clan Feud Settled Peacefully in Basilan Ahead of Ramadan
BASILAN, Philippines — A longstanding rido or clan feud was formally resolved on February 13, 2026, in a peace settlement ceremony held at the Barangay Hall of Pintasan in the municipality of Mohammad Ajul, marking a significant step toward reconciliation and stability in the province. The settlement was achieved through the combined efforts of the…
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Teacher Shot Dead While Buying Food for Iftar in Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur
AMPATUAN, Maguindanao del Sur — A teacher was shot dead by an unidentified gunman while buying food for iftar at a public market in Barangay Kauran, Ampatuan on Thursday afternoon, authorities and family members confirmed. The victim was identified as Norodin Kuday, also known as “Mama,” a teacher and resident of Barangay Malibpulok in Rajah…
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Illegal Lawa-an Lumber Seized in Anti-Logging Inspection in Sumisip, Basilan
SUMISIP, Basilan — Authorities confiscated illegally cut lumber during a joint inspection operation against suspected illegal logging in Barangay Mahatalang on February 19, 2026, as part of continuing efforts to protect the province’s forest resources. Troops from the Philippine Army’s 32nd Infantry “Daredevil” Battalion provided security assistance to the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office…
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DOT Strengthens Ties with Indonesia’s Umrah and Hajj Travel Market, Showcasing the Philippines as a Muslim-Friendly Destination
The Philippines is taking a significant step forward in expanding inclusive tourism, as the Department of Tourism (DOT) deepens its engagement with Indonesia’s growing Umrah and Hajj travel market. Through a recent familiarization program, tourism officials and industry stakeholders highlighted the country’s readiness to welcome Muslim travelers with culturally respectful services, diverse destinations, and strengthened…
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CIDG Nets Alleged Gunrunner, Seizes High-Powered Firearms in Marawi Anti-Loose Firearms Crackdown
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) intensified its nationwide crackdown on loose firearms under OPLAN PAGLALANSAG OMEGA, leading to the arrest of an alleged gunrunner and the seizure of three unlicensed firearms in a law enforcement operation in Marawi City on February 16, 2026. The operation, carried out at around 2:00 p.m. in Barangay…
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Death Toll Climbs to 64 as Two More Bodies Recovered from MV Trisha Kerstin III Wreck in Basilan
BASILAN – The death toll in the tragic sinking of MV Trisha Kerstin III has risen to 64 after Philippine Coast Guard technical divers recovered two additional bodies during underwater operations on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The latest retrieval was carried out near Baluk-Baluk Island, where the ill-fated vessel went down. According to authorities, the…