Olongapo Times, Olongapo (2026)

25/06/2026

OT GLOBAL | 𝗞𝗶𝗺 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗢𝗻 𝗡𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗞𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗮’𝘀 𝗡𝘂𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿-𝗔𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗱 𝗡𝗮𝘃𝘆

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has claimed progress in his country’s push to build a nuclear-armed navy after Pyongyang placed a new 5,000-ton destroyer into service.

North Korean state media said the warship, named Choe Hyon, was formally commissioned during a ceremony at the western port of Nampo on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

The destroyer is expected to serve along North Korea’s western coast, an area near disputed waters where past maritime tensions with South Korea have led to deadly incidents.

Kim said the ship showed that North Korea’s plan to arm its navy with nuclear weapons was advancing. State media also described the warship as part of Pyongyang’s effort to expand its military reach from coastal defense toward wider sea-based operations.

The Choe Hyon has been presented by North Korea as one of its most advanced naval assets. State media reports have claimed the ship carries anti-aircraft and anti-ship systems, along with cruise and ballistic missiles that may be capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

The commissioning comes as Kim continues to call for stronger naval forces, including more large destroyers and future nuclear-powered submarine capabilities.

South Korean officials, however, have questioned how operational the vessel truly is. Some analysts have also raised the possibility that North Korea may have received technical help from Russia, as military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow continues to draw international concern.

The naval development adds another layer to tensions on the Korean Peninsula, where North Korea has repeatedly rejected the maritime boundary known as the Northern Limit Line.

Kim has also pushed for a broader expansion of the country’s nuclear and missile forces while talks with the United States and South Korea remain stalled.

For neighboring countries, the new warship raises concern not only over North Korea’s missile program, but also over its efforts to place strategic weapons at sea.

The development is expected to be closely monitored by South Korea, Japan, the United States, and other regional security partners.

Courtesy: Manila Bulletin

25/06/2026

OT GLOBAL | 𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗔𝘀 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗪𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗘𝘂𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲

PARIS, FRANCE — France recorded its hottest day ever as an early heat wave swept across Europe, disrupting schools, transportation, tourist sites, public services, and daily activities in several countries.

The record was confirmed by France’s national weather agency, Météo-France, after the country’s national thermal indicator reached 29.8°C. The indicator is based on average temperatures measured from 30 weather stations across the country.

The extreme heat affected large parts of France, with authorities issuing high-level warnings and implementing safety measures to protect residents and tourists.

The Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum were among major landmarks affected by heat-related adjustments, while schools and transport services also faced disruptions as temperatures continued to climb.

Weather officials warned that more record-breaking temperatures could still occur as the heat wave was expected to persist in several areas.

The heat was not limited to France. The United Kingdom, Spain, and other parts of Europe also experienced unusually high temperatures, with weather agencies warning millions of people about health risks linked to extreme heat.

In France, officials also reported multiple drowning incidents as people sought relief in rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water during the scorching weather.

Public health authorities reminded residents to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, check on vulnerable individuals, and seek medical help when signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke appear.

The heat wave placed renewed attention on the growing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in Europe.

Climate experts have repeatedly warned that heat waves are becoming hotter, longer, and more dangerous as global temperatures rise.

For European governments, the latest record adds pressure to strengthen heat response systems, protect elderly residents and children, safeguard workers, and adapt public infrastructure to hotter conditions.

The early heat wave also serves as a reminder that extreme temperatures are not only an environmental issue, but also a public health, transport, education, tourism, and emergency management concern.

Courtesy: Manila Bulletin

25/06/2026

OT CAPTURED | 𝗗𝗜𝗟𝗚 𝗔𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗦𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗚 𝗧𝗼 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗲 𝗩𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺

ANGELES CITY — The Department of the Interior and Local Government Angeles City has launched Project SINAG, a community-based initiative aimed at strengthening bayanihan, volunteerism, and active citizen participation in barangay development.

The program seeks to bring government closer to communities by encouraging residents to take part in activities that support cleanliness, order, environmental care, and local progress.

As part of its kick-off activities, DILG Angeles City held the Project SINAG Community Launching and Bayanihan Clean-Up Drive in Barangay Pandan, with the participation of the Environmental Management System, volunteers, residents, barangay officials, and community partners.

The activity featured the introduction of Project SINAG’s main goals, messages promoting volunteerism, the oath-taking of volunteers, and a joint clean-up drive that symbolized unity and shared responsibility for the community.

Through the program, DILG Angeles City aims to encourage more Angeleños to participate in community work and become active partners of the government in improving barangay life.

Project SINAG also highlights the role of ordinary citizens in supporting public service. Local development becomes stronger when residents do not only wait for government action, but also take part in simple, practical, and meaningful efforts within their own communities.

The clean-up activity in Barangay Pandan showed how coordinated action among government offices, barangay leaders, volunteers, and residents can help promote cleaner and more orderly public spaces.

The first Project SINAG activities were earlier conducted along Abacan on June 20, 2026, while the next community activities are scheduled to continue in Barangay Ninoy Aquino on June 27, 2026.

The initiative reflects the continuing push to build a culture of volunteerism and shared accountability in Angeles City.

Through Project SINAG, the city seeks to show that positive change is easier to achieve when government and citizens work together for the welfare of the community.

Courtesy: Angeles City Information Office

25/06/2026

OT CAPTURED | 𝟭𝗕𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗮𝗻 𝗩𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗘𝘆𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗜𝗣 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗜𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗽𝗶𝗵𝗮𝗻

DINALUPIHAN, BATAAN — A proposed 1Bataan Village housing project for Indigenous Peoples in Dinalupihan has moved into early preparation after local officials conducted a site inspection in Barangay Tubo-Tubo.

According to 1Bataan, the inspection was ordered by Mayor Tong Santos as part of the initial assessment for the planned housing infrastructure project intended for the town’s Indigenous Peoples community.

Santos said the site inspection was necessary to check the area’s safety, project quality, and possible long-term benefits for future residents.

The inspection team was led by Project Development Officer Choi Chavez, together with Jeffrey Roman of the Bataan Human Settlements Office and representatives from the Provincial Engineering Office led by Jayson Simbolo.

Representatives from the Indigenous Peoples sector and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples also joined the inspection, including IP Council representative Hon. Ramelita Arojado and NCIP representative Juna Sacpa.

Their participation was considered important because the project is intended for Indigenous Peoples, whose needs, community practices, safety concerns, and cultural considerations must be taken into account in planning and implementation.

Housing projects for Indigenous Peoples require careful coordination to ensure that development is not only physically safe and structurally sound, but also respectful of community identity, access to livelihood, basic services, and long-term welfare.

The proposed project is part of broader efforts in Bataan to provide safer, more stable, and more decent housing opportunities for communities in need.

For Dinalupihan, the project could help improve living conditions for Indigenous Peoples families while supporting local development and social protection goals.

Officials said further planning and evaluation will be needed as the project moves through the necessary processes.

The site inspection marks an early step toward determining how the proposed 1Bataan Village project can be properly developed for the benefit of the intended community.

Courtesy: 1Bataan

25/06/2026

OT CAPTURED | 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗥𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗲𝗱𝘀, 𝗙𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗪𝗲𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻

SUBIC, ZAMBALES — Registered farmers in Subic have started receiving hybrid and certified palay seeds, along with powder and liquid fertilizers, as part of support for the wet season planting cycle this year.

The Municipal Agriculture Office began the distribution on May 22, 2026, to help local farmers prepare for the upcoming planting season and improve their production capacity during the rainy months.

Municipal Agriculturist Lucy Victorio said the farm inputs were provided by the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office III and PhilRice, with distribution carried out through the assistance of the Municipal Government of Subic.

The program is intended to ensure that farmers have access to quality seeds and fertilizers, which are important in improving crop growth, yield, and overall farm productivity.

For rice farmers, timely access to planting inputs is crucial, especially during the wet season when preparation, field management, and proper use of resources can directly affect harvest results.

The activity was attended by Mayor Jon Khonghun and Chief-of-Staff Janjo Khonghun, who represented Congressman Jay Khonghun.

Their presence showed the continuing support of the local government and the congressional office for agriculture-based livelihood programs in Subic.

Local officials said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to assist farmers, strengthen food production, and support households that depend on farming as their main source of income.

With the help of hybrid and certified seeds, farmers are expected to have better planting materials suited for higher production. Fertilizer support also helps reduce input costs, which remain among the common challenges faced by small farmers.

The program is expected to contribute to better harvests and improved income for Subic farmers during the wet season.

Agriculture support programs like this are important in sustaining local food supply and helping farming communities recover from rising production expenses, weather risks, and market pressures.

The Municipal Agriculture Office said the distribution will continue as part of its commitment to provide practical assistance to registered farmers in the municipality.

Courtesy: Subic Public Information Office

25/06/2026

READ: International Criminal Court Trial Chamber III Presiding Judge Joanna Korner said the case has drawn substantial media interest in the Philippines and has also appeared to trigger the spread of what she described as “fake news.”

Korner’s remark, dated June 23, 2026, comes amid continuing public attention, online discussion, and competing narratives surrounding the proceedings.

Her comments point to the need for careful reporting, verified information, and responsible public discussion, especially on legal matters that carry national and international significance.

25/06/2026

OT CAPTURED | 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗕𝗮𝗷𝗮𝗰-𝗕𝗮𝗷𝗮𝗰 𝗣𝘂𝘁𝘀 𝗨𝗽 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗼 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀

OLONGAPO CITY — Barangay East Bajac-Bajac has started installing public information signages in strategic areas to remind residents of existing barangay ordinances and community rules.

The initiative was carried out under the leadership of Punong Barangay Erma “Sims” Manalang, with the Maintenance Team headed by OIC Jose Barrio tasked with the installation of the signages across the barangay.

The signages are intended to provide clear public reminders on rules covering the drinking of alcoholic beverages in public places, excessive noise, videoke use beyond the allowed hours, curfew for minors, and other community discipline measures.

Barangay officials said the move aims to strengthen awareness, promote responsible behavior, and support the enforcement of ordinances designed to protect residents and maintain peace and order in every purok.

The information campaign is also part of continuing efforts to build a safer, cleaner, more disciplined, and more orderly East Bajac-Bajac.

Public signages play an important role in local governance because they help residents understand rules in a visible and accessible way. They also support barangay officials and responders in reminding the public about proper conduct in shared spaces.

The barangay said ordinances are not meant merely to penalize violators, but to protect the community, prevent disturbances, and promote a more peaceful neighborhood environment.

By placing reminders in key areas, the barangay hopes to reduce common concerns such as public drinking, loud noise, late-night disturbances, and curfew violations involving minors.

The initiative also encourages residents to take part in maintaining order by observing simple rules and showing respect for neighbors, pedestrians, families, and public spaces.

Barangay East Bajac-Bajac called on residents to support the program and cooperate with efforts that promote discipline, safety, and shared responsibility.

Officials said meaningful change begins when every resident follows basic community rules and works together for a peaceful and orderly barangay.

Courtesy: Barangay East Bajac Bajac 2026

25/06/2026

OT CAPTURED | 𝗞𝗮𝗽𝗶𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗠𝗢𝗖𝗖𝗜 𝗧𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘁𝗵 𝗜𝗻 𝗭𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT ZONE — The Department of Trade and Industry Zambales joined local business leaders, public officials, and entrepreneurs for the Kapihan with MOCCI held at Subic Grand Harbour Hotel on June 23, 2026.

The activity brought together DTI Zambales Provincial Director Enrique Tacbad, Councilor Joshua Gardon, Metro Olongapo Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Patrick Philip Pineda, SB Corp. Senior Provincial Coordinator Erson Salamatin, and members of the local business community.

The discussion focused on entrepreneurship, livelihood opportunities, business development, and efforts to support economic growth in Olongapo, Zambales, and nearby areas.

Kapihan sessions such as this provide an important venue for government agencies, business organizations, and entrepreneurs to exchange ideas, raise concerns, and identify possible support programs for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

DTI Zambales continues to play a key role in assisting entrepreneurs through business registration support, training, product development, market access, consumer protection, and programs that help local enterprises become more competitive.

The participation of SB Corp. also placed attention on financing opportunities and business support services that may help small business owners sustain or expand their operations.

For the local business sector, access to information, government programs, and industry networks can help address common challenges such as capital, compliance, marketing, digitalization, product improvement, and business continuity.

The presence of MOCCI and local officials also showed the importance of strong public-private cooperation in building a more active and resilient business environment.

As local enterprises continue to recover, adapt, and grow, partnerships between government and the private sector remain important in creating jobs, supporting livelihoods, and encouraging investment.

The Kapihan with MOCCI served as a platform for practical dialogue and collaboration aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship and promoting inclusive economic progress in the area.

Courtesy: DTI - Zambales

25/06/2026

READ: Kamanggagawa Party-list Rep. Eli San Fernando said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. could act if he truly wanted to, saying ordinary Filipinos know that there is always a way when there is political will.

San Fernando said that if the President does not act, “there are many excuses,” as he criticized what he suggested was a lack of decisive action on pressing national issues.

His remark, dated June 22, 2026, comes amid continuing public debate on government accountability, leadership, and the administration’s response to major concerns facing the country.

25/06/2026

OT CAPTURED | 𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗻 𝗕𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗡𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗱 𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗼 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗼𝗿 𝗢𝗳 𝗥𝗼𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗜𝗻 𝗩𝗶𝗲𝘁𝗻𝗮𝗺

OLONGAPO CITY — John Bayarong has been appointed as the 1st Filipino Assistant Governor of Rotary International in Vietnam, marking a meaningful milestone for Filipino leadership in the international Rotary community.

His term of office will run from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027.

Bayarong’s appointment reflects his leadership, dedication, and continuing commitment to Rotary’s principle of “service above self,” a core value that guides members in community service, humanitarian work, and civic leadership.

As Assistant Governor, Bayarong is expected to support Rotary clubs, strengthen coordination, and help advance programs aligned with Rotary International’s mission of service, fellowship, leadership development, and community impact.

His appointment also carries significance for Filipinos serving abroad, especially those who continue to contribute to civic and service-oriented organizations beyond the Philippines.

For Olongapo City, the achievement adds to the growing list of local professionals and leaders making an impact on national and international platforms.

The appointment highlights how Olongapeños continue to demonstrate leadership, professionalism, and public service in different fields and communities around the world.

Courtesy: Olongapo City Information Center

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25/06/2026

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