*Mayor Ted Carranza Delivers First SOMA as Silang Mayor, Highlights People-Centered Governance*

 

*Silang, Cavite | August 17, 2026*

*SILANG, Cavite* — Incumbent Mayor *Edward "Ted" Carranza* delivered his State of the Municipal Address (SOMA) on August 17, 2026, outlining his administration’s first-year accomplishments and priorities for the "richest town" in Cavite.

The address comes more than a year after Carranza was proclaimed mayor in June 2025 following the Comelec en banc’s decision to disqualify rival Kevin Anarna due to a 2024 Ombudsman ruling. Carranza, of the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC), was sworn in by Associate Justice Luis Acosta of the Court of Appeals. 

 *Key Highlights from SOMA 2026*

*1. Social Services and Education*

Mayor Carranza reported the rollout of direct aid programs including the distribution of uniform allowance for Silang students. He emphasized that education and financial inclusion remain top priorities to uplift Silangueños. 

*2. Economic Growth and Agriculture*

The mayor hailed Silang as the "first in PH" to produce enoki mushrooms locally, positioning the town as a hub for agri-innovation. He also pushed for digital financial technology to onboard more residents into the formal financial system, in partnership with RCBC. 

*3. Peace, Order, and Anti-Poverty*

Addressing long-standing issues, Carranza described the drug problem as tied to poverty and broken families, and called illegal gambling "systemic" in Southern Tagalog. He noted that economic progress is key: "when an area becomes economically progressive... illegal gambling lessens. People get jobs". 

*4. Housing and Human Rights*

In response to the Biga Uno demolition incident, Carranza vowed: "hindi po natin papayagan ang anumang pambu-bully. Kay Mayor Carranza, walang mangyayaring pang-aabuso". He ordered that no demolition proceed without a final court order and decent relocation for affected families. 

*Governance Direction*

Carranza, a former vice mayor and acting mayor, framed his administration around transparency and law. He reiterated that the Office of the Mayor and BPLO had nothing to do with the illegal demolition and that due process must be followed. 

He closed his SOMA by calling on Silangueños to work together for a "progressive, peaceful, and inclusive Silang" — focusing on jobs, education, and protecting the vulnerable from abuse.

*Background*:

In the May 12, 2025 elections, Anarna initially led with 54,787 votes vs Carranza’s 40,447. However, Comelec later declared Anarna’s votes as stray due to perpetual disqualification, leading to Carranza’s proclamation as mayor.

Brig. General Mikee Romero headed ARRAPI making "A Rock " for Reservists

The creation of the Association of Reservists and Reservist Organizations of the Philippines, Inc. (ARRAPI) in March 2024 marked a historic turning point for the Philippine reservist sector.

What began as a vision to strengthen reservist participation quickly evolved into a nationwide movement. Following the National Reservist Convention in 2023, a group of leaders came together to establish a unified organization committed to advocating for reservists, strengthening their role in national defense, and advancing their integration into the Philippine Total Defense Force (TDF).

At the forefront of this transformation was Mikee Romero, who served as ARRAPI Chairman for 2024–2026. Under his leadership, ARRAPI pursued a clearer and more unified direction, giving greater visibility to the vital contribution of reservists to the country’s defense and national preparedness.

Romero’s participation was instrumental in helping shape ARRAPI from a newly established organization into a growing national movement. His leadership reflected the importance of bringing together reservists from different backgrounds and organizations under a common purpose: to serve the nation and strengthen the country’s Total Defense framework.

A defining milestone came in 2025, when ARRAPI organized what became the largest reservist gathering in Philippine history, bringing together approximately 4,500 participants onsite and 48,000 participants online.

The scale of the gathering demonstrated more than the strength of ARRAPI’s organizational reach. It showed the enormous potential of the Philippine reservist community when united, organized, and mobilized toward a shared national mission.

For Romero, the achievement represented an important step in elevating the role of reservists beyond individual participation and toward a more integrated contribution to national defense.

ARRAPI’s emergence, with Romero playing a central leadership role during its formative years, underscored a powerful message: reservists are not merely a force in reserve, they are an active and essential part of the nation’s capacity to respond, protect, and serve.

PCCI–Los Baños and Former Congressman Mikee Romero Launched the Classrooms of the Future

LOS BAÑOS, LAGUNA – A new chapter in Philippine education unfolded as the Municipality of Los Baños officially launched the Rizal Classrooms of the Future (RCOF) at the Los Baños Central Elementary School, coinciding with the 165th Birth Anniversary of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal last June 19, 2026. 

The innovative learning facility, led by Hon. Mayor Neil Andrew Nocon, reflects Los Baños’ commitment to creating future-ready classrooms where technology, creativity, and national identity come together. The RCOF features a modern classroom design equipped with digital learning tools, including tablets customized with the life, works, and legacy of Dr. Rizal, allowing students to discover history through a more interactive and engaging approach.

A major force behind the completion of the project is the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Los Baños (PCCI–Los Baños) through the generous support and initiative of former Congressman Brig. Gen. Michael “Mikee” Romero, who ensured that the classrooms would be fully functional by donating essential classroom furniture, including tables, chairs, and cabinets.

Through this partnership, the Rizal Classrooms of the Future became more than just a technology-driven learning space—it became a complete environment designed to inspire students and support teachers.

PCCI–Los Baños President Engr. Grace Bondad-Nicolas emphasized that the private sector plays a vital role in strengthening education and building communities.

“Today is not only the launch of a classroom; it is the launch of an opportunity. We are creating a space where young learners can dream bigger, learn better, and prepare for the future. The vision of Mayor Neil Nocon, combined with the generosity of former Congressman Mikee Romero, shows what can happen when government, business, and the community work together,” she said.

She added that the donation of the classroom essentials represents the commitment of PCCI–Los Baños and its partners to ensure that innovation reaches every learner.

“We believe that education is one of the greatest investments we can give our children. The tables, chairs, cabinets, and technology inside this classroom symbolize our belief that every student deserves a learning environment that inspires excellence,” Bondad-Nicolas said.

Former Congressman Mikee Romero, known for his advocacy for education and community development, highlighted the importance of creating spaces where Filipino students can develop the skills needed for tomorrow’s challenges.

The Rizal Classrooms of the Future also serve as a meaningful tribute to Dr. Jose P. Rizal, whose belief in education as a foundation of national progress continues to inspire generations of Filipinos. By combining Rizal’s ideals with modern technology, the project connects the lessons of the past with the possibilities of the future.

Mayor Neil Andrew Nocon expressed his appreciation to PCCI–Los Baños, former Congressman Mikee Romero, the Department of Education, and all partners who contributed to making the initiative a reality.

The launch marks a milestone not only for Los Baños but also for the continuing effort to bring innovative and inclusive education closer to Filipino learners.

The Rizal Classrooms of the Future stand as a reminder that when leaders, businesses, educators, and communities unite, the future of the next generation becomes brighter.

Mabuhay ang Los Baños! Mabuhay ang ating mga mag-aaral! Mabuhay ang partnership for education and innovation!

TAG Media Group Hosts Special Top News Asia Magazine Signing at PRWF 2026

Readers and industry leaders gathered at National Book Store, Araneta City, Cubao on August 14, 2026, for a special Top News Asia magazine signing hosted by TAG Media Group during The Philippine Readers and Writers Festival 2026.

Spearheaded by TAG Media Group President and Editor-in-Chief Engr. Grace Bondad-Nicolas,  the event brought together two powerful guest speakers: Comelec Chairman Atty. George Erwin Mojica Garcia; and corporate leader, former Congressman, and PAF Reserve Officer Brig. Gen. Michael “Mikee” Lagman Romero.

Attendees enjoyed an engaging Q&A session where the guest leaders shared behind-the-scenes stories from their careers and national service. 

Noting the significant role that young voters played in the recent election, Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia emphasized that an informed electorate—driven by an empowered youth—is the most reliable engine for sustained national progress. He called on leaders across both the public and private sectors to champion civic education initiatives, arguing that equipping voters with actionable knowledge ensures the election of leaders who will drive sound economic policies and foster a business-friendly environment.

Brig. Gen. Mikee Romero offered candid reflections on his journey as a successful businessman and dedicated public servant. Renowned for achieving corporate success early in his career, Romero emphasized that wealth creation should serve as a tool for driving positive social change rather than an end in itself. He detailed his transition into national service, highlighting his active role in supporting marginalized communities through the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Reserve Command. 

The event offered readers a rare opportunity to connect personally with the figures featured in Top News Asia through meaningful dialogue. By bridging the gap between national leaders and the reading public, TAG Media Group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting leadership, storytelling, literary engagement across the country.

#TopNewsAsia

#ComelecChairman

#MikeeRomero

#ReadersAndWritersFestival2026

#NBS

*Pasay City Holds Thanksgiving Mass for Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano*

 

Gratitude and Prayer Mark First Year Milestone at Pasay City Hall

*August 11, 2026 | Pasay City Hall*

*PASAY CITY* — Pasayeños gathered in faith and gratitude as the *City Government of Pasay* held a *Thanksgiving Mass for Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano* today, *August 11, 2026*, at the *Pasay City Hall*.

The mass was offered in thanksgiving for God’s guidance, protection, and blessings to the city and its leadership over the past year.

 *A CELEBRATION OF SERVICE AND FAITH*

The Thanksgiving Mass was attended by city officials, department heads, barangay captains, city employees, and residents from across Pasay’s  barangays.

In her message, *Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano* expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the people of Pasay and to God for the strength to serve. 

“_Ang lahat ng tagumpay at biyaya ng Lungsod ng Pasay ay galing sa Panginoon at sa pagtutulungan natin. Sa isang taon na ito, ipinangako natin ang serbisyong may malasakit, at sa tulong ninyo, naisakatuparan natin ito,_” said Mayor Emi.

She also prayed for continued unity, peace, and progress for Pasay as the city moves forward with its programs on health, education, livelihood, and infrastructure. *PASAY UNDER MAYOR EMI’S LEADERSHIP*

The Thanksgiving Mass comes as Mayor Emi marks another year of leadership focused on *“Serbisyong May Malasakit.”*  

Key highlights of the administration include:

1. *Kalusugan* - Expansion of health centers and free medicine programs

2. *Edukasyon* - Scholarships and school support for Pasayeño students  

3. *Kabuhayan* - Livelihood training and assistance for MSMEs

4. *Peace & Order* - Strengthened public safety and disaster preparedness

5. *Pabahay at Serbisyo* - Housing and social welfare programs for vulnerable sectors

 *UNITY IN PRAYER*

After the mass, a short fellowship was held at the City Hall grounds. City employees and residents offered prayers for the continued wisdom of city leaders and for the prosperity of Pasay City.

“_Pasasalamat muna bago ang trabaho. Yan ang tatak Pasay,_” one city employee shared.

The event ended with a prayer for the entire Pasayeño community — that Pasay may remain a *God-centered, progressive, and compassionate city*.

#ThanksgivingMass #MayorEmiCalixtoRubiano #PasayCityHall #SerbisyongMayMalasakit #PasayCity #Pasayeño

MOU JCCIPI and ARTA

 

The Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines, Inc. (JCCIPI) and the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) will formally sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on 5 August 2026, reinforcing public-private sector collaboration in advancing regulatory reform, reducing red tape, and promoting a more business-friendly environment between Japanese enterprises and the Philippines. The MOU designates JCCIPI as an “ARTA Champion,” strengthening its role as a partner institution in supporting the implementation of Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018. 

Signing the MoU are ARTA Secretary and Director General Ernesto V. Perez and JCCIPI President SHIMODA Shigeru. Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines H.E. ENDO Kazuya will also deliver remarks during the ceremony.

Under this valuable partnership, JCCIPI will assist ARTA in promoting awareness of government reforms, supporting business sector engagement, participating in public consultations, and facilitating reporting on red tape concerns affecting the business community. ARTA, in turn, will provide training, orientations, and information materials to JCCIPI and its members, while ensuring that complaints related to violations of R.A. No. 11032 are acted upon promptly and efficiently

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