St. Bernard, Southern Leyte declared as insurgency-free

By 802nd Infantry Brigade, 8ID PA
March 26, 2025

CAMP DOWNES, Ormoc City – The Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of St. Bernard, Southern Leyte declared the municipality in a State of Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) yesterday in a ceremony that was attended by key provincial, municipal and barangay officials headed by Hon. Edito L. Mulig, Mayor and the Chairman of the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of St. Bernard.

Senior military and Police officials were also present during the activity to witness the declaration such as Colonel Rico O Amaro, the Deputy Brigade Commander of the 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Edgar A. Gabia, Commanding Officer of the 14th Infantry (Avenger) Battalion, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Jay C Balderian, Deputy Provincial Director for Operations, SLPPO.

Apart from the declaration, a Memorandum of Understanding and Pledge of Commitment have been signed by all members of the MTF-ELCAC solidifying their commitment towards long-lasting peace. These symbolizes the municipality’s resilience and readiness to focus on sustainable development initiatives.

Mayor Mulig expressed his municipality's gratitude to all stakeholders who were instrumental in achieving the state of SIPSC in St. Bernard. He emphasized that this milestone paves the way for further progress in St. Bernard, enhancing the quality of life for their constituents.

Colonel Rico O Amaro, 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, Philippine Army, Deputy Brigade Commander once again reaffirms the Army’s commitment to securing the community against the CTG’s threats.

He also congratulated the constituents, municipality, and barangay officials for their active cooperation and support in sustaining internal peace and security in the area.

“The MOU affirms the commitment of the local and national government including the populace to focus on efforts and programs towards peace, prosperity, and happiness of all citizens across all sectors, rich and poor. It is a binding contract that acknowledges everyone’s roles in sustaining the hard-earned peace that some of us paid the ultimate sacrifice. The SIPSC and MOU represent our pride, our collective achievement, and our understanding that we have defeated, and have been victorious against insurgency by means of our collaboration, cooperation, and commitment. Mabuhay ang Saint Bernard, Mabuhay ang ating bansang Pilipinas at Mabuhay tayong lahat," Colonel Amaro said.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Noel A. Vestuir, 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade, Philippine Army, Commander, lauded the collaborative efforts of the members of the MTF-ELCAC and the support of the community that led to attaining a significant milestone in terms of peace and security.

“This declaration is important as it’s a symbol of strong commitment of the LGU towards peace and security. Natutuwa ako na marami nang mga munisipyo dito sa Southern Leyte ang nasa SIPSC na. Hindi lang ito dahil sa efforts ng military kundi effort ito ng lahat. Kaya naman lubos ang aming pasasalamat sa inyong suporta sa mga programa ng gobyerno na tiyak na magdadala sa mga komunidad ng kapayapaan at kaunlaran,” BGen Vestuir said.

DAR E. Visayas’ SPLIT implementation impresses WB

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
March 25, 2025

ALANGALANG, Leyte – World Bank task team leader, Theresa Quiñonez, expressed satisfaction with how the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) Project is being implemented by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Eastern Visayas over the past four years.

Quiñonez said during the 11th Implementation Support Mission (ISM) held in this region from March 19 to 21 this year, “I am very happy to see the progress made in Region-8.” “Based on what we have heard from the ARBs (agrarian reform beneficiaries), they are happy with the process of SPLIT, how the DAR had conducted the activities under SPLIT, ensuring participation as well as in decision making of ARBs,” she added.

Together with other World Bank representatives, Quiñonez proceeded to Barangay Borseth in this town, some 30 kilometers away from Tacloban City, on the first day, despite heavy rains, and had a consultation-dialogue with ARBs who are recipients of the SPLIT Project.

The World Bank team, accompanied by representatives from the Central Project Management Office (CPMO) of DAR, were happy to note that the ARBs were fully informed and understood the purpose of the SPLIT Project after each one of them were asked to share their individual experiences related to SPLIT implementation.

Meanwhile, the Municipal Agrarian Reform Office (MARO) personnel were likewise commended for knowing the process and doing their job correctly after they were asked to demonstrate the steps in conducting the “pulong-pulong.”

Though, the team decided to forego the observation of the actual conduct of the survey due to the inclement weather, Quiñonez likewise commended how this region accomplished survey activities conducted by administration.

Assistant Regional Director for Operations, Renato Badilla, reported that survey conducted by administration was more efficient and effective over survey conducted by contract. Badilla explained that field activities were completed in a shorter period with surveys conducted by administration.

Further, DAR Eastern Visayas Regional Director, Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, disclosed to the World Bank that “field validation throughout the region is already completed, while redocumentation activities by the MAROs are being monitored daily to make sure that we be able to deliver our target this year.”

ISM, according to Quiñonez, is being conducted jointly by the World Bank and DAR every six months to see the progress of the SPLIT Project as well as determine the areas that need improvement to expedite its implementation. SPLIT Project is going to end in 2027.

The World Bank provides funding to the implementation of the SPLIT Project through a loan.

Philippine Army strengthens land defense with U.S. Army in major Joint Exercise "SABAK" 2025

By OACPA
March 24, 2025

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Philippine Army kicked off Salaknib and Balikatan Exercises 2025 or "SABAK" in a joint opening ceremony led by Army Vice Commander Maj. Gen. Leodevic B. Guinid at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija on March 24, 2025.

SABAK 2025 brings together the Philippine Army and U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) forces in a robust joint exercise across key locations in the Philippines. The exercise, designed as a continuous operation, focuses on enhancing Combined/Joint All-Domain Operations, reinforcing warfighting capabilities, and showcasing a strong bilateral commitment to safeguarding the Philippines' territorial integrity. Aimed at strengthening defense readiness, SABAK 2025 will also provide critical training in Humanitarian Civil Assistance, Information Operations, Counter-Intelligence, and Protection.

Further, the exercise will tackle capability enhancement on operational Command and Control, Combined Arms Force-on-Force, Large-scale Operational Maneuvers, Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise, and Sustainment Operations in support of External Security Operations.

Exercise Salaknib, a broader part of EXERCISE BALIKATAN, is participated in by around 3,000 PA and 2,000 USARPAC troops who will train in various SMEE and warfighting exercises. Phase 1 will be conducted from 24 March to 11 April 2025 and Phase 2 will be from 19 May to 20 July 2025 which will be held in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, and the AOR of the 5th Infantry Division (5ID) and the 7th Infantry Division (5ID).

The Philippine Army continues to develop and enhance its capabilities in partnership with its allies. Through joint exercises like SABAK 2025, the Army further solidifies its readiness to respond to evolving threats and upholds its vital role in the nation's land defense as part of the AFP's broader mission in external security operations.

DAR opens anew scholarship program for dependents of ARBs

By APRIL ROSE SEVILLANO
March 23, 2025

TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is again accepting applications for the DAR Scholarship Program for the Dependents of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (DSP-DARBs).

This scholarship program aims to provide financial support to qualified dependents of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) who are interested in pursuing a four-year agriculture-related course at any state universities and colleges (SUCs).

DAR Eastern Visayas Regional Director, Atty. Robert Anthony Yu, encourages children and other dependents of ARBs to grab this opportunity in achieving their dreams.

To qualify, applicants must possess the following: a legitimate dependent of an ARB with a total gross income of no more than P100,000.00 per year; a senior high school graduate with a general average grade of at least 83 percent; must have passed the college admission exam administered by the SUC; must not have been convicted of any crime that involves moral turpitude; and must not have any ongoing administrative or criminal case.

Interested parties should fill out the application form and submit it to any DAR office in their area together with the following required documents: certification from the DAR regional or provincial office that the applicant is a qualified dependent of an ARB; Personal Data Sheet (CSC Form 212); authenticated copy or certified machine copy of the birth certificate of the applicant; health certificate issued by a government hospital or physician; barangay clearance; certified photocopy of Form 137 (High School Report Card); statement of commitment and support by the parents or guardian of the applicant; certification of good moral character issued by the high school principal or religious leader in the community; certified true copy of the income tax return (ITR) of applicant’s parents; certificate of rating from the SUC for passing the entrance examination; and certificate of enrolment (if enrolled).

Deadline for the submission of applications is on March 31 this year.

As DSP-DARBs scholar, he/she will receive: P3,000.00 monthly stipend; P2,000.00 book allowance for every semester; P500.00 transportation allowance for every month; P500.00 lodging allowance for every month; graduation fee not exceeding P5,000.00; P10,000.00 thesis allowance, if applicable; and P5,000.00 summer class allowance for two months.

Yu shared that in Eastern Visayas there are seven DAR DSP-DARBs scholars who are currently enrolled in different SUCs in the region.

Army focuses on external defense as it marks 128th founding anniversary

By OACPA
March 22, 2025

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Philippine Army (PA) is making strides in its shift to external security operations as it marked its 128th founding anniversary with a display of capabilities and a reaffirmation of its commitment to national defense in a ceremony in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on March 22, 2025.

A capability demonstration on combined arms operation highlighted the anniversary program witnessed by President and Commander-in-Chief Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The capability demo, featured the assembly of troops in Jamindan, Capiz in the Visayas; Kibaritan, Bukidnon in Mindanao; and other key areas, highlighting the Army’s large-scale deployment and command-and-control capabilities.

Army Chief Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido, in his anniversary remarks, highlighted the Army's transition from internal security operations to external security operations. The Army Chief emphasized that while the Army has successfully contributed to diminishing communist and local terrorist threats within our borders, it now faces the challenge of protecting the nation's lands, coastlines, and sovereignty. “This shift aligns with the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept, ensuring that our Army works seamlessly with the Navy and the Air Force to defend our vast national territory,” he remarked.

Lt. Gen. Galido detailed key Army restructuring efforts, including the activation of the Combat Engineer Regiment for strategic location protection, revitalization of reserve forces with the emphasis on the new functions of Community Defense Centers and Regional Community Defense Groups and upgraded reconnaissance capabilities. Infantry battalions have also been reconfigured to be lighter and more mobile, with specialized seaborne and air defense units being activated to extend operational reach across the archipelago. The Army Chief also highlighted key training exercises particularly Exercise Katihan, a large-scale mobilization drill that tested the Army's ability to rapidly deploy large-scale forces across the country in times of crises.

To bolster the Army’s ranks, the Army Chief underscored the importance of revitalized training programs and the “One Recruitment Program” designed to ensure only the most capable applicants are recruited, while highlighting the progress in gender equality with over 200 female officers now leading various Army units nationwide.

The Army Chief concluded with a solemn tribute to 26 soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation, followed by a resolute declaration of the Army's preparedness to defend Philippine sovereignty against any threats. "Our mission is clear. We are here to fight if we must, to defend what is ours, and to ensure that no adversary—foreign or domestic – threatens our sovereignty," the Army Chief stated, reinforcing the Army's commitment to being a battle-ready and formidable force for the nation,” Lt. Gen. Galido remarked.

President Marcos also gave his marching orders to the 110,000-strong Army as it marks its 128th founding anniversary. “As your Commander-in-Chief, I enjoin you to stay relentless in your pursuit for excellence. Sharpen your skills, master your craft, embrace innovation,” the President said. “After all, the Philippine Army’s strength extends beyond firepower. It draws from its personnel’s honor, integrity, and fortitude,” he remarked.

Vice President Sara Z. Duterte as well as Defense Chief Gilberto C. Teodoro likewise conveyed their anniversary greetings for the Philippine Army with the theme "Matatag na Sandigan ng Bagong Pilipinas."

In a related development, President Marcos recognized three soldiers' courage in action. The Distinguished Conduct Star was awarded to Maj. Jestoni V. Labarosa for his acts of conspicuous courage and gallantry during a significant encounter in Zamboanga Sibugay Province, while Gold Cross Medals were awarded to Cpt. Dexter S. Dauan and Sgt. Raymund L. Causing for their gallantry in action during military operations in Negros Occidental and Maguindanao del Sur respectively.

COA holds exit conference on audit of DPWH Samar 2nd DEO projects and operations

Press Release
March 17, 2025

CATBALOGAN CITY – On March 14, 2025, the Commission on Audit (COA), led by Mr. Amado A. Sanchez, Jr., Audit Team Leader, and his team, completed their comprehensive audit of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar Second District Engineering Office. As part of their ongoing efforts to ensure auditing procedures align with established rules and regulations, an exit conference was conducted to present the preliminary findings, conclusions, and recommendations.

The audit focused on evaluating the DPWH Samar Second DEO's financial operations, project execution, procurement processes, and compliance with government regulations. It aimed to ensure that public funds are being utilized effectively and in accordance with transparency and accountability standards.

During the exit conference, COA officials provided an overview of the audit’s findings, highlighting areas where the DPWH Samar Second DEO showed compliance as well as identifying areas requiring improvement. The COA emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to align operations with proper auditing protocols to improve efficiency in infrastructure development.

Mr. Amado A. Sanchez, Jr. reaffirmed the COA’s commitment to overseeing the effective use of government resources and ensuring that all public infrastructure projects follow the necessary legal and procedural requirements. He also outlined steps to address any discrepancies or recommendations for future improvements in project management and financial oversight.

DPWH Samar 2nd DEO completes asset preservation program on Basey-Marabut-Pinamitinan road

Press Release
March 14, 2025

CATBALOGAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Samar 2nd District Engineering Office has successfully completed the rehabilitation, reconstruction, and upgrading of damaged section of the Basey-Marabut-Pinamitinan Road, located between kilometer markers K0922+000 and K0923+000 in Marabut, Samar.

The Asset Preservation Program focused on improving the critical secondary road connecting the municipalities of Basey and Marabut, extending towards Pinamitinan.

This road serves as a vital transportation artery for the region, facilitating the movement of goods, services, and people. However, a section of the road had suffered significant damage to its paved surface, impacting the safety and efficiency of travel.

The project was implemented by the DPWH Samar 2nd DEO, under the supervision of Project Engineer Liezel R. Afable. The project was funded by the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for Fiscal Year 2024, with an allocation of P40,000,000.00 and a contract amount of P38,807,869.08.

The completed project is expected to have a significant positive impact on the community of Marabut and the surrounding areas.

The successful completion of the Asset Preservation Program on the Basey-Marabut-Pinamitinan Road demonstrates the DPWH's commitment in improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for communities in Samar. The project will contribute to the region's economic growth, tourism development, and overall quality of life.

Army's two-day blood donation drive nets 28K blood bags

By OACPA
March 12, 2025

FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Philippine Army's two-day simultaneous nationwide blood donation drive netted around 28,000 blood bags. The blood donation was conducted at the Army’s main headquarters in Fort Bonifacio and in key camps across the country on March 7 to March 8, 2025.

"This nationwide blood donation drive represents the core of our anniversary theme this year. Just as blood gives life to the body, the Philippine Army serves as part of the lifeblood of our nation's security and development," Army Chief Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido said of the activity’s significance. "For 128 years, we have stood as a strong pillar of the Philippines, not just in defending our sovereignty but also in serving our people in times of peace, calamities, and other crises,” he remarked.

It is worth noting that citizens who need blood transfusion can become beneficiaries upon recommendation and endorsements of soldiers, reservists, and reservist organizations within their barangays and LGUs. Those who would like to avail of blood supply from the Army's blood donations may inquire at the nearest Community Defense Centers (CDCs), and Regional Community Defense Group (RCDG) units under the Reserve Command, Philippine Army (RCPA).

The first day involved Army officers and enlisted personnel while Army reservists and ROTC cadets participated in the second day of the donation drive which was held at CDCs across the country. The activity is part of the activities to mark the Philippine Army’s 128th founding anniversary with theme “Matatag na Sandigan ng Bagong Pilipinas.”

GABRIELA hails Duterte's arrest as a significant development in fight for justice and human rights

Press Release
March 11, 2025

MANILA – Staunch critic of the ‘macho-fascist’ former President Duterte, GABRIELA Philippines hails the latter’s arrest as an initial victory for victims of Duterte’s drug war and other crimes against humanity. This arrest, executed upon his arrival at Manila's international airport on March 11, 2025, follows the issuance of an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant investigating crimes against humanity linked to Duterte's drug war campaign.

“This development marks a pivotal step toward accountability for the numerous allegations of human rights violations and crimes against humanity committed during his administration. His fascist and misogynist rule resulted in grave rights violations especially among women and marginalized communities, and so the fight continues until Duterte is finally convicted and made to pay for his crimes,” said Clarice Palce, Secretary General of GABRIELA.

“The arrest of Duterte is a significant progress in the peoples’ fight for justice not only for the victims of his drug war, but also for the countless victims of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and other grave human rights abuses. It sends a powerful message that perpetrators of such heinous acts will be held accountable,” Palce continued.

As the legal process unfolds, GABRIELA calls upon the concerned bodies to ensure a transparent trial that will bring justice to thousands of Filipino families who suffered Duterte’s crimes. The group likewise called for accountability for officials and government policies that enabled the tyrannical rule of Duterte, as well as whoever stands in the way of the current progress in the cases against Duterte.

“Filipino women and people will continue to be vigilant against maneuvers to derail the wheels of justice towards Duterte’s imprisonment, including efforts to keep ICC proceedings from taking due and immediate course. Marcos Jr. himself shall be held accountable should he make any attempt to protect Duterte,” cautioned Palce.

Finally, GABRIELA declared that they will continue their pursuit of justice and accountability, especially among the most powerful. “The Marcoses and their cronies, whose crimes span decades – from the time of the dictator Marcos Sr. to the current Marcos Jr. administration, should consider themselves warned. The people will not rest until the long arm of justice catches up to you,” Palce concluded.

DAR holds marathon distribution of land titles in Samar

By JOSE ALSMITH L. SORIA
March 10, 2025

MOTIONG, Samar – One hundred farmers from nine Samar towns and two cities received last week their individual Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) as the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) held a marathon distribution of land titles in the said province.

For three consecutive days, Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II) Segundino Pagliawan went town-hopping to lead the distribution of 116 CLOAs, mostly electronically generated titles (e-titles) under the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) Project, covering an aggregate area of 172.9791 hectares.

According to Pagliawan, this is in response to the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to expedite the distribution of CLOAs to the agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) and finish it before his term expires in 2028.

Further, “Secretary Estrella ordered also the immediate distribution of CLOAs to the ARBs after these are released by the Registry of Deeds (ROD),” he added.

Pagliawan, accompanied by Atty. Ronaldo Escribano and Engr. Lucena Mancol, chiefs of the Legal and the Land Tenure Improvement Divisions, respectively, at the DAR Samar Provincial Office, came here and to the towns of Sta. Margarita, Gandara, Tarangnan, San Jorge, Daram, Jiabong, Paranas, San Sebastian including the cities of Calabayog and Catbalogan to hand the individual land titles to the ARBs.

These titles were released by the Registry of Deeds (ROD) from January to February 26 this year, disclosed Pagliawan.

He added that for this year, DAR Samar Provincial Office is tasked to distribute more than 5,000 e-titles.

Meanwhile, Dominga Rivera, 78, one of the recipients from Barangay Calapi, a remote farming village some 20 kilometers away from the center of this town, expressed her gratitude to the President and agrarian reform secretary, Conrado Estrella III, that she is now free from giving shares of her harvest to the former landowner.

8ID troops donate 425 bags of blood to Samar Provincial Hospital

By DPAO, 8ID PA
March 8, 2025

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – The 8th Infantry "Stormtroopers" Division participated in a simultaneous blood donation drive in connection with the Philippine Army's 128th founding anniversary at the 8ID Headquarters’ Abanador Hall in Catbalogan City, Samar, on March 7, 2025.

A total of 425 bags of blood were collected and turned over to the Samar Provincial Hospital to assist patients in need of blood transfusions.

The 8ID chief of staff, Col. Arlino Sendaydiego, led the opening of the blood donation drive, which saw active participation from 8ID troops, Civilian Human Resources (CHR), personnel from the Operational Control Units (OpCon) of 8ID, Army reservists from the 803rd Community Defense Center, and members of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC).

“Today, we come together not just to donate blood, but to give hope and save lives. This initiative reflects the Army’s commitment to serving beyond the battlefield—protecting not only our nation but also the well-being of every Filipino," Col. Sendaydiego said.

Private Daniel Rivera of the 87th Infantry Battalion, one of the blood donors, shared why he chose to participate in the activity.

“Maganda na nakukuhanan ng dugo, kasi napapalitan yung dugo mo. At the same time, maliban sa nare-refresh ang dugo mo, nakakatulong din tayo sa ating mga kababayan na nangangailangan," Private Rivera said.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio, 8th Infantry Division commander, expressed his gratitude to the Samar Provincial Hospital, Camp Lukban Station Hospital, and all the donors for being part of this noble cause.

“To all who participated, thank you for embodying the true meaning of service. Your selflessness has given much more than just blood – it has given hope, strength, and a second chance at life to those who need it most. Every drop donated today is a reflection of the legacy we continue to build: one of courage, compassion, and a deep commitment to the Filipino people," Maj. Gen. Orio said.

Maj. Gen. Orio also reminded the troops of their responsibility to ensure the welfare of the community.

“As we celebrate 128 years of the Philippine Army's service, let this event serve as a reminder of the power we hold when we work together. It is not just about the battles we face; it is about the lives we touch, the communities we uplift, and the legacy we leave behind," he said.

Number of constructions in Eastern Visayas posts 36.2% increase in the 4th quarter of 2024

By PSA-8
March 8, 2025

TACLOBAN CITY – The region’s total number of constructions increased by 36.2 percent, from 1,052 constructions recorded in the 4th quarter of 2023 to 1,433 constructions in the 4th quarter of 2024.

The regional increase was brought about by the 49.9 percent growth in the number of residential buildings, from 583 constructions in the 4th quarter in 2023 to 874 constructions in the 4th quarter of 2024. The number of non-residential buildings also went up by 45.2 percent from 345 constructions in the 4th quarter of 2023 to 501 constructions in the 4th quarter of 2024. On the other hand, the combined number of additions/alterations and repairs of existing structures decreased by 53.2 percent, recording 58 constructions in the 4th quarter of 2024 from 124 construction in the 4th quarter of 2023.

In the 4th quarter of 2024, the number of residential buildings comprised 61.0 percent of the total constructions in the region, while non-residential buildings and additions/alterations and repairs accounted for 35.0 percent and 4.0 percent, respectively.

The total value of constructions in the region more than doubled (103.3%) in the 4th quarter of 2024 at P4.8 billion from P2.4 billion total value of constructions in the 4th quarter of 2023. This spike was attributed to the increase in the value of construction for non-residential buildings which more than doubled (122.2%), from P1.3 billion in the 4th quarter of 2023 to P2.8 billion in the 4th quarter of 2024. The total value of residential buildings increased by 67.6 percent, from P0.9 billion in the 4th quarter of 2023 to P1.5 billion in the 4th quarter of 2024. In addition, 153.2 percent growth in the total value of addition/alteration and repair of existing structures, from P0.2 billion in the 4th quarter of 2023 to P0.4 billion in the 4th quarter of 2024.

In terms of share to total value of construction, non-residential buildings’ value of construction comprised the bulk at 59.0 percent. The value of construction of residential buildings contributed 32.0 percent, while additions/alterations and repairs accounted for 9.0 percent of the region’s total value of constructions in the 4th quarter of 2024.

Average cost of construction per square meter was estimated at P11,152 for residential buildings and P14,521 for non-residential buildings.