In preparation for the possible effects of Super El Niño, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Zambales, through its Consumer Protection Division, intensified its monitoring of the prices and supply of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs), as well as bottled water, in San Antonio, San Narciso, and Santa Cruz on October 6, 2026.
The activity aimed to ensure that prices remain within the Suggested Retail Prices (SRPs) and that price tags are properly displayed for consumers’ guidance. During the inspection, the monitoring team visited various grocery stores and supermarkets to check prevailing prices and assess compliance with existing regulations.
Store owners also reported that their current stocks were sufficient to last for at least one month, indicating adequate inventory levels and preparedness.
DTI Zambales will continue its price and supply monitoring, validation of product availability, and timely reporting to provide accurate market information and strengthen consumer protection efforts. DTI Region 3 – Central Luzon

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA — The Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) of Matain in Subic, Zambales has helped protect a rescued Philippine Serpent Eagle (Spilornis holospilus) by promptly turning it over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for proper assessment and rehabilitation.
The rescued raptor was formally received by DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Olongapo City head Forester Edward Sernadilla, with wildlife enforcement officer Bryan Vallejos who conducted a preliminary health assessment and ensured the safe handling of the bird.
“We will facilitate the transfer of the eagle to the Wildlife In Nature Rescue Center in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, where it will undergo further medical evaluation and rehabilitation before its possible return to the wild,” Sernadilla reported.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo commended the Barangay Matain LGU for its prompt and responsible response, stressing that community participation is essential in protecting wildlife.
“The action of Barangay Matain shows how communities can help protect our wildlife. Promptly turning over rescued animals to the proper authorities gives them a better chance to receive the care they need and, when possible, return to their natural habitat,” Pablo said.
The Philippine Serpent Eagle is a raptor endemic to the Philippines and is commonly found in forest edges, foothills, riparian areas and cultivated landscapes. Under DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09, it is classified under Other Wildlife Species (OWS). While it is currently assessed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), DENR has noted a declining population trend, highlighting the importance of protecting the species and its habitat.
The species is also protected under Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001, which provides for the conservation and protection of wildlife and their habitats. The law prohibits unauthorized acts involving wildlife, including collecting, possessing, transporting, and trading wildlife without the required permits or authority.
The DENR encouraged the public to report rescued, injured or displaced wildlife to the nearest DENR office instead of keeping or attempting to rehabilitate them independently.
“Prompt coordination allows wildlife authorities and accredited facilities to provide appropriate assessment, treatment and rehabilitation, and determine whether an animal can eventually be returned to its natural habitat,” Pablo ended.

Third Service Contract Awarded in Pursuit of New Secure Energy Source for the Country

Manila, Philippines and Denver, United States – Koloma, the world’s leading natural hydrogen exploration company, announced today that the Government of the Philippines awarded the company exclusive rights for natural hydrogen exploration in western Zambales Province, under Service Contract 92.
Last October, Koloma received two Service Contracts for hydrogen exploration in Central Luzon, as part of the first competitive bid round for natural hydrogen exploration in the world, and has commenced exploration activities in both. Together, Koloma’s three service contracts now encompass more than 1,600 square miles (4,100 square kilometers).
“We are honored to deepen our partnership with the Government of the Philippines to pursue what could be a transformative opportunity for the country, in terms of energy security and economic growth,” said Pete Johnson, CEO of Koloma. “We are grateful for the government’s vision and leadership in advancing natural hydrogen exploration,” he added.
The Philippines sits on some of the best-documented natural hydrogen data in the world, making it one of the most promising settings for exploration. A discovery of commercial-scale natural hydrogen would give the Philippines a domestic, primary energy source and position it as a regional energy hub.
“The award of additional exploration rights to Koloma builds on the company’s ongoing activities in Central Luzon and marks a significant expansion of the indigenous energy exploration program,” said Philippines Secretary of Energy, Sharon S. Garin. “If discovered in commercially viable quantities, natural hydrogen could strengthen the country’s energy security at no cost to taxpayers, while providing a zero-emission fuel source for our power grid, industries, and agricultural sectors. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Koloma in this effort.”
Koloma is uniquely positioned to partner with the Government of the Philippines in this endeavor. The company has assembled a world-class team of geo-scientists and exploration experts, whose work is guided by cutting-edge research and the largest proprietary dataset in the industry.
In addition to the Philippines, Koloma has active exploration partnerships and activity across four continents.
About Koloma
Koloma is a data-driven natural hydrogen exploration company leveraging its cutting-edge technology, proprietary data, and deep industry expertise to identify and produce natural hydrogen in the United States and across the globe.
Koloma is actively engaged in exploration and partnerships that will play a role in global decarbonization efforts. We have the backing of leading clean energy funds and major corporations and are capitalized to swiftly scale our exploration efforts.

Subic, Zambales – The Philippine Navy (PN) welcomed the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) contingent aboard His Majesty’s Australian Ship (HMAS) Supply (A195), the lead ship of the Supply-class auxiliary oiler replenishment vessels, for a five-day port visit to Subic, Zambales, from August 19 to 24, 2026, further strengthening maritime cooperation and interoperability between the two navies.

The engagement commenced with a Meeting Procedure at Sea in the vicinity of Grande Island, followed by a Welcome Ceremony at Rivera Wharf, Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Commander Jose Maria V Santos PN, Chief of Staff, Sealift Amphibious Force, PF, PN, served as the PN representative and led the welcoming contingent, joined by senior officers and enlisted personnel of the Philippine Fleet, Philippine Navy.

The visit included a courtesy call by Commander Kylie Turnbull RAN, Commanding Officer of HMAS Supply, and delegation on the Commander, Philippine Fleet (PF), Commodore Raul A Regis PN, represented by Deputy Commander, Philippine Fleet, Commodore Lorenzo H Bolor Jr PN. Also present was Commodore Junjie B Tabuada PN, Commander, Sealift Amphibious Force, PF, PN.

During the courtesy call, Commodore Bolor welcomed the Australian contingent and expressed appreciation for the visit. Both sides discussed previous Australian naval ship visits, the first Replenishment-at-Sea (RAS) conducted with a sister ship of HMAS Supply, and potential future training opportunities to further enhance naval cooperation and interoperability.

The port visit will conclude on August 24 with a formal Send-Off Ceremony at Rivera Wharf, followed by a Passing Exercise (PASSEX), providing both navies an opportunity to further enhance interoperability and operational coordination at sea.

The visit underscores the longstanding partnership between the Philippine Navy and the Royal Australian Navy and their shared commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation, enhancing operational interoperability, and contributing to peace and stability in the region.

The Olongapo City Tourism Department, led by City Tourism Officer Fifi Tobias Gavino-Legaspi, joined the U.S. Culinary Envoy’s visit to the Bankeró Fisherman Association at Driftwood Beach Resort in Barretto, Olongapo City.
The activity was also attended by City Agriculturist Francis Ela Maniago, together with members and representatives of the association.
Organized through the U.S. Embassy Manila’s Fish Right Program, the visit highlighted the association’s community-based post-harvest initiatives and provided an avenue for knowledge exchange on fish processing, product development, and livelihood opportunities.
The program featured demonstrations of traditional fish-processing methods, including the smoking and bottling of galunggong and bangus, as well as an interactive exchange between the U.S. Culinary Envoy, Sous Chef, and local fisherfolk.
The activity concluded with a Filipino boodle fight, celebrating the country’s culture of sharing food while fostering friendship, camaraderie, and community connections.
The Olongapo City Tourism Department continues to support initiatives that promote community-based tourism, local livelihoods, Filipino culinary heritage, and meaningful international partnerships. (Tourism Gapo)

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Masinloc, and Gasat Builders and Supplies, Inc. are working together to restore a portion of forestland in Zambales affected by a forest fire through a collaborative tree growing initiative that supports the government’s long-term forest rehabilitation efforts.
CENRO Masinloc Head Donaver Guevarra reported that 45 volunteers planted 1,000 seedlings of coffee, eucalyptus, and yakal within a 100-hectare National Greening Program (NGP) adoption area in Barangay Guiguis, Sta. Cruz, Zambales.
According to Guevarra, the initiative contributes to the recovery of degraded forest areas by restoring forest cover in portions of the site where a forest fire during the dry season damaged seedlings planted in previous years.
“Sustained rehabilitation, maintenance, and protection activities are essential to ensure the successful recovery of the plantation and strengthen the resilience of the forest ecosystem,” he added.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo underscored the importance of partnerships in advancing forest rehabilitation, noting that private sector participation complements government efforts to restore degraded forestlands and promote the sustainable management of natural resources.
“The rehabilitation of areas affected by forest fires requires sustained commitment from government, the private sector, and local communities. Through partnerships such as these, we can restore forest ecosystems, strengthen their resilience, and ensure that they continue to provide vital ecological services for present and future generations,” Pablo said.
Participating in the activity were representatives from Gasat Builders and Supplies, Inc., interns from President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU)–Botolan Campus, members of Mu Omega, RHO Delta, Lambada, the Mt. Pinatubo Alpha Phi Omega Alumni Association, and the Beta XI Chapter of the Alpha Phi Omega (APO) fraternity, and personnel of CENRO Masinloc.

OLONGAPO CITY, Philippines — Nearly a century of faith, history, and community life in Zambales took center stage as the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) Museum opened a special public exhibition at SM City Olongapo Central from June 19 to 23, 2026.
Presented in celebration of the 95th anniversary of the Iglesia Ni Cristo in the province, the five-day exhibit invited visitors to explore a collection of immersive multimedia presentations, historical photographs, rare documents, and unique artifacts that chronicled the Church’s growth in Zambales and the lives of individuals who helped shape its story.
Open free to the public, the exhibit transformed a familiar community space into a journey through local history that spanned generations and reflected the experiences, sacrifices, and aspirations of people whose stories became part of the province’s heritage.
Mounted in collaboration with Christian Family Organizations and Christian Era Broadcasting Service International, Inc., the museum presented visitors with accounts of perseverance and conviction that traced back to the early years of the Church’s presence in Zambales. This offered a glimpse into how faith and community-building evolved alongside the province itself.
For students, the exhibit provided an opportunity to engage with historical materials seldom encountered in classrooms. For families, it offered a space for intergenerational conversations about heritage, identity, and the values that continued to shape communities.
The special pop-up exhibit reflected INC Museum’s broader mission of making history more accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences through engaging and interactive experiences.
Brother Angelo Eraño Manalo, Deputy Executive Minister of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, emphasized the importance of understanding history as a guide for the future. “A society that understood its roots gained a clearer vision of where it had to go. History was not merely a record of the past; it was a source of wisdom that helped people make principled decisions to strengthen communities and contribute to national progress,” he said.
The initiative formed part of INC Museum’s continuing effort to bring historical and cultural learning beyond traditional museum settings, and closer and more accessible to the public.
According to Bro. Cornelio N. Cortez, Jr., Director of the INC Museum, “As cultural workers, it was imperative that as time advanced, we nurtured a generation deeply aware of its historical roots, inspired to uphold the same vision, and committed to passing on the torch of remembrance and reflection on where we came from—even when we were no longer with them.”
The INC Museum hoped that visitors left not only with a deeper appreciation of local history, but also with a renewed understanding of how enduring values could influence future generations.

ABOUT US
Owned and operated by the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ), the INC Museum was a non-profit cultural and educational institution in Quezon City, Philippines. The museum was established in 1984 at the INC Central Temple and was later relocated to its purpose-built facility, where it was officially inaugurated on August 26, 2019.
Through fine art, historical artifacts, immersive multimedia, and interactive exhibits, the museum presented the history, beliefs, and global presence of the Iglesia Ni Cristo. Open to both INC members and the general public, the INC Museum was managed by the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation, the Church’s socio-cultural arm, and served as a center for heritage preservation, education, and public engagement.
For more information, visit https://incmuseum.net.

The Zambales Provincial Government, led by Governor Jun Ebdane, commemorated the 128th Philippine Independence Day in a ceremony held today, June 12, 2026, at the Capitol Grounds in Iba, Zambales.
With the theme “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.” the celebration highlighted the importance of independence, patriotism, and unity as foundations for a more prosperous future for every Filipino.
In his message, Governor Ebdane paid tribute to the heroism and sacrifice of Filipinos who gave their lives for the country’s freedom. He emphasized that Independence Day is not only a remembrance of history, but also a reminder of our shared responsibility to stand united, to serve, and to actively participate in building a stronger and more progressive Philippines.
Joining the celebration were Vice Governor Jaq Khonghun, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, department heads, the Zambales Provincial Police Office, the Philippine Army, SWAT, BSP-Zambales, Palarong Pambansa gold medalist Prince Billy Ecalnir, representatives from various CSOs, and staff and employees of the Zambales Provincial Government.
In conclusion, Governor Ebdane stressed that through unity and love of country, Zambales will continue to strive for greater progress and contribute to a stronger, more resilient Philippines.

Muling napabilang ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Zambales at lahat ng 13 munisipalidad nito sa mga nakapasa sa 2025 Good Financial Housekeeping (GFH) Assessment ng Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
Kabilang sa mga kinilalang LGU sa lalawigan ang:
Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Zambales
Bayan ng Botolan
Bayan ng Cabangan
Bayan ng Candelaria
Bayan ng Castillejos
Bayan ng Iba
Bayan ng Masinloc
Bayan ng Palauig
Bayan ng San Antonio
Bayan ng San Felipe
Bayan ng San Marcelino
Bayan ng San Narciso
Bayan ng Sta. Cruz
Bayan ng Subic
Ipinapakita ng pagkilalang ito na patuloy na naipatutupad ng Zambales at mga bayan nito ang mataas na pamantayan sa maayos at responsableng pangangasiwa ng pondo ng bayan. Layon ng GFH na tiyakin na ang mga lokal na pamahalaan ay sumusunod sa mga alituntunin sa tamang pagba-budget, maayos na bookkeeping, at tapat na paglalathala ng mga impormasyong pinansyal para sa kaalaman ng publiko.
Sa pamamagitan ng parangal na ito, muling pinagtitibay ang kahusayan ng Zambales sa transparency, accountability, at good governance—mga haliging nagbubukas ng daan tungo sa mas mahusay, episyente, at makabuluhang serbisyo para sa bawat Zambaleño.
Nagpaabot ng pagbati ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Zambales sa pamumuno ni Gobernador Jun Ebdane sa lahat ng opisyal at kawani ng lalawigan at ng 13 munisipalidad, gayundin sa mga Zambaleño na katuwang sa pagpapanatili ng tapat at maayos na pamahalaan.
“Ang pagkilalang ito ay hindi lamang para sa pamahalaan, kundi para sa bawat Zambaleño na patuloy na nagtitiwala, nakikilahok, at nakikibahagi sa pagtataguyod ng mabuting pamamahala,” pahayag ng pamahalaang panlalawigan.

IBA, Zambales — The Provincial Government of Zambales has officially partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) to construct new classrooms across the province, directly targeting the local school infrastructure shortage.
Zambales Governor Hermogenes “Jun” Ebdane Jr. led the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on June 2 to implement the National Government’s Basic Education Facilities Program locally. Under this partnership, DepEd will manage the technical standards and funding allocation, while the Provincial Government of Zambales will oversee the actual procurement and construction phases to accelerate project delivery.
Addressing the Classroom Shortage
The initiative forms part of a broader national directive under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara. Backed by the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA), the program aims to systematically reduce the estimated 145,000 classroom backlog across the Philippines.
In Zambales, three public schools have been selected as the initial beneficiaries for the structural expansion:
• Panan National High School (Botolan)
• Bancal Integrated School (Botolan)
• San Agustin Integrated School (Iba)
Key Officials Present
The high-level meeting was attended by key education and local government leaders to formalize the implementation framework.
Representing DepEd were:
• Atty. Mel John Versoza, Undersecretary for Administration
• Atty. Peter Irving Corvera, Undersecretary for Senior Personnel Oversight and HOPE
• Aurelio Paulo Bartolome, Assistant Secretary for Human Resource and Organizational Development
Governor Ebdane was joined by Botolan Mayor Jun Omar C. Ebdane, Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) William Roderick Fallorin of SDO-Zambales, Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Emmanuel Adaoag, and Provincial Engineer Domingo Mariano.
Governor Ebdane expressed strong optimism for the project, noting that the building of these modern learning spaces represents a vital step toward securing safer, more conducive educational environments for Zambaleño students.