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ERC should audit ‘pass-through’ costs – Gatchalian

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian sought more powers for the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to audit not just distribution fees, but also the pass-through costs of generating electricity.

Pass-through costs are fees added directly to the bill of energy consumers based on a utility company’s expenses from producing said utility, such as production and delivery rates from power plants and distributors.

‘Pass-through charges need to be audited. We, consumers, need to be assured that what is being passed on to us is not excessive. It’s common sense, if you’re a businessman, of course you want to pass on the highest amount to the consumer so that you can earn a high profit… but the regulator is there to ensure that you earn a decent amount but not too much,’ Gatchalian said during the Senate energy panel hearing.

The hearing aimed to discuss ways to strengthen the ERC amid rising fuel prices.

He was talking to ERC Chairperson Saturnino Juan, who admitted that the agency has ‘not thoroughly’ checked the right prices for fuel pass-through.

‘There is that need for us to come up with audit steps to determine really what should be the appropriate pass-through,’ Juan also told the panel.

Gatchalian criticized the lack of the ERC’s powers, pointing out that it makes the government ‘blind’ to the pass-through charges that affect energy consumers.

‘I believe that the price that is passed on to us because it is not checked, we do not know what is really being passed on to us… The ERC should not only look at the distribution charges, but they should also look at the pass-through. Because we are blind. The government is blind when it comes to pass-through,’ the senator pressed.

Energy panel chairperson Sen. Erwin Tulfo also chimed in, grilling Juan on the lack of checks and balances to the pass-through charges.

‘You could have prevented that- this abuse of the electricity price… If you only did your job even though you had no power, you could have done something. You could have told the public,’ Tulfo stressed.

He then asked Juan: ‘Do you agree with me that it is abuse?’

Juan replied that he ‘had no basis’ to say so, prompting a sharp reaction from Tulfo, who said: ‘You have no basis, but the people know that they were abused and shamelessly ignored.

Protected wild birds rescued from illegal captivity in Sorsogon

Authorities rescued 17 protected wildlife, including two Philippine long-tailed macaques and 15 native birds, from a private residence in Sorsogon City where they had been illegally kept in captivity.

The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) in Sorsogon conducted the rescue operation on Wednesday (July 22) in Sitio Madan-an, Barangay Bibincahan, after receiving a report from the Sorsogon City Veterinary Office about a captive primate.

During the inspection, the PENRO Wildlife Enforcement Team found two Philippine long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis philippensis), 12 white-eared brown doves (Phapitreron leucotis), two Philippine hanging parrots (Loriculus philippensis), and one black-chinned fruit dove (Ramphiculus leclancheri) being kept without the required permits.

Joan Mariscotes, chief of the DENR Bicol Regional Strategic Communication and Initiatives Group, told the Inquirer in a text message that the birds were found in the custody of a female resident of Barangay Bibincahan, who said her husband had kept the animals for more than a year.

‘Some of the animals were purchased, while others were captured using traps,’ Mariscotes said.

After PENRO personnel explained the provisions of the country’s wildlife protection laws, the resident voluntarily surrendered all 17 animals to authorities.

The 15 rescued birds were transported to the Bulusan Volcano Natural Park in Barangay San Roque, Bulusan town, where they were released into their natural habitat.

The two Philippine long-tailed macaques-a male and a female-were brought to the Albay Park and Wildlife Rescue Center in Legazpi City for medical assessment and rehabilitation under the care of wildlife handler Fidel M. Mateum.

Mariscotes said the Philippine hanging parrot is classified as critically endangered under DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09, while the Philippine long-tailed macaque, white-eared brown dove, and black-chinned fruit dove are classified as ‘other wildlife species,’ which are native to the area but have legal protection status

5 reasons your solar underperforms during rainy season

Many homeowners invest in solar energy expecting reliable electricity throughout the year. While solar systems continue to generate power during wet weather, it is common to notice a significant drop in performance when the rainy season arrives.

Meanwhile, if your batteries seem to charge more slowly or your inverter reports lower energy production, the weather is usually the biggest factor. Understanding why solar underperforms during the rainy season can help you manage expectations and improve the efficiency of your system.

Therefore, in this article, Tribune Online examined how a temporary decline in output does not necessarily indicate a fault with your solar installation.

Reduced sunlight reaching the panels

The most obvious reason for lower solar production during the rainy season is the reduction in solar irradiance.

Solar panels generate electricity by converting sunlight into energy. When thick clouds cover the sky, less sunlight reaches the photovoltaic cells.

According to solar energy research and performance data, heavily overcast conditions can reduce solar output significantly compared to clear-sky conditions because the amount of available sunlight drops sharply.

Even though solar panels can still use diffused sunlight, production levels are often much lower than on bright sunny days.

This is why many households notice reduced battery charging during prolonged periods of rainfall.

Longer periods of cloud cover

Rain itself is not the biggest problem. The real challenge is the persistent cloud cover that often accompanies rainy weather.

Solar panels continue producing electricity during light rain and cloudy conditions, but performance declines as cloud density increases. Studies and industry observations show that heavily overcast skies can reduce output to a fraction of normal production levels.

In regions that experience several consecutive rainy days, energy generation may remain below average for extended periods.

Dirt, pollen, and surface build-up

Many people assume rain completely cleans solar panels. While rainfall can wash away some dust and debris, it does not always remove stubborn dirt, pollen, or residue.

Research from the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that rainfall alone may not fully clean solar panels, especially when pollen accumulation is involved. Residue left behind can continue affecting performance even after the rain has stopped.

Regular inspections and periodic cleaning remain important, particularly in areas with high dust levels or heavy vegetation.

Poor panel positioning and shading

Rainy seasons often make existing shading problems more noticeable.

Trees, buildings, utility poles, and nearby structures can block already-limited sunlight from reaching solar panels. According to energy performance data, panel orientation and tilt play a major role in determining how much solar energy a system can capture.

A system that performs reasonably well during the dry season may struggle during cloudy months if the panels are not positioned optimally.

Battery and system capacity limitations

In many cases, solar panels are not the only issue.

If your battery bank is undersized, it may struggle to store enough energy during periods of reduced generation. Similarly, older batteries often lose storage capacity over time, making rainy-season performance appear worse than it actually is.

A properly designed solar system should account for seasonal weather variations. Homes with higher electricity demand may require additional battery storage or larger solar arrays to maintain consistent performance throughout the year.

How to improve solar performance during the rainy season

Although the weather cannot be controlled, system efficiency can be improved.

Regular panel maintenance, proper battery management, routine inspections, and professional system sizing can all help maximise energy production. Some homeowners also benefit from adding extra panels or increasing battery capacity to compensate for seasonal reductions in sunlight.

It is normal for solar to underperform during the rainy season because solar panels depend on sunlight to generate electricity. Reduced irradiance, persistent cloud cover, dirt accumulation, shading issues, and battery limitations all contribute to lower output.

However, a drop in performance does not automatically indicate a faulty system. With proper maintenance and realistic expectations, solar energy remains a reliable and cost-effective power solution throughout the year, even during extended periods of rain.

SLCGE invites SME apparel manufacturers to join unified industry platform

The Sri Lanka Chamber of Garment Exporters (SLCGE), established in 1994, has invited small and medium-sized apparel manufacturers from across Sri Lanka to join the Chamber and become part of a unified platform committed to strengthening the country’s apparel

sector.

Having represented and supported Sri Lanka’s apparel industry for more than three decades, SLCGE said its renewed membership drive aims to bring together established exporters and aspiring exporters under one collective industry voice at a time when global apparel markets are becoming increasingly competitive.

The Chamber noted that greater collaboration among SME apparel manufacturers is essential to building a stronger, more resilient and export-oriented industry. By working together, manufacturers can share knowledge, address common challenges and collectively explore new opportunities in international markets.

Through SLCGE membership, apparel manufacturers will have the opportunity to collaborate with fellow industry participants, explore new and untapped international business opportunities, and support collective initiatives aimed at improving direct market access.

Members will also be able to gain industry knowledge, market intelligence and exposure to best practices through workshops, seminars, networking events and capacity-building programmes conducted or facilitated by the Chamber.

Sri Lanka Chamber of Garment Exporters President Nishantha Bakmeege said: ‘SME apparel manufacturers are an important part of Sri Lanka’s export economy, but many continue to face challenges in accessing markets, finance, technology and timely policy information. By joining SLCGE, manufacturers can become part of a stronger collective platform that enables them to share knowledge, build industry connections and pursue new business opportunities.’

‘Our objective is to bring established and aspiring exporters together under one voice and support them in becoming more competitive, resilient and globally connected,’ he added.

The Chamber will also provide guidance on government policies, regulations and export procedures, while facilitating engagement with financial institutions to help manufacturers better understand available financing solutions and business growth opportunities.

At a time when Sri Lanka is seeking to strengthen export-led economic growth, the SME apparel sector has a vital role to play in expanding the country’s manufacturing base, creating employment, supporting regional enterprise development and improving foreign exchange earnings.

SLCGE said a stronger collective platform would enable SME apparel manufacturers to contribute more effectively to the future growth and international competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry.

Whether an established exporter or an aspiring exporter, SLCGE provides a platform for collaboration, networking, capacity development and industry advancement, helping apparel businesses move towards their next stage of growth.

‘Join Us. Collaborate. Grow. Succeed,’ the Chamber stated, reaffirming its broader message: ‘One Industry. One Voice. One Future.’

Kano ready for state police, says Yusuf

Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has declared the state’s readiness to establish state police, saying the initiative will strengthen internal security and complement the operations of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

The governor made the declaration during the inauguration of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Trafficking at the Government House in Kano.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature, Governor Yusuf said the proposed state police should be viewed as a partner to the NPF rather than a competing institution.

He explained that both policing structures share the responsibility of maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property, and promoting peaceful coexistence.

Speaking on the ongoing consideration of the State Police Bill, the Governor said closer collaboration between the two systems would improve intelligence gathering, enable faster response to security threats, and boost public confidence in law enforcement.

‘The state police and the Nigeria Police Force should be seen as partners working together to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response to security threats, and enhance public confidence in law enforcement,’ he said.

Governor Yusuf expressed confidence that Kano has the institutional capacity, skilled personnel, and political will required to establish and sustain an effective state police system once the necessary constitutional and legal frameworks are in place.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting all legitimate efforts aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, noting that improved security is essential for citizens to freely pursue their economic, educational, and social activities.

The governor added that Kano remains committed to initiatives that enhance public safety and create a more secure environment for residents and businesses.

NDB posts PAT of Rs. 3 b in 2Q 2026 driven by core banking operations

National Development Bank PLC (NDB) has announced its financial results for the six months ended 30 June 2026. Despite the challenges arising from the fraud uncovered in April 2026, the bank delivered healthy results, driven by strong core banking operations, reflecting the resilience of its business model and the clarity of its strategic direction.

The bank reported an operating profit before taxes on financial services of Rs. 9.5 billion for 1H 2026, after recognising the gross financial impact of the fraud attributable to the period amounting to Rs. 2.55 billion, which related entirely to the quarter ended 31 March 2026. This compares with an operating profit before taxes on financial services of Rs. 4.38 billion for 1H 2025, which has been restated to reflect the applicable fraud impact of Rs. 4.26 billion recognised for that period.

Post-tax profit for 1H 2026 amounted to Rs. 4.83 billion, compared with a restated post-tax profit of Rs. 1.93 billion for 1H 2025, with the net financial impact of the fraud reflected in both periods. Excluding the impact of the fraud, post-tax profit for 1H 2026 would have been Rs. 6.21 billion, compared with Rs. 4.22 billion in the corresponding period of 2025. Notably, the bank recorded a standalone post-tax profit of Rs. 3.01 billion during the 2Q 2026, the first full quarter since the reporting of the fraud. These results underscore the strength of the bank’s underlying franchise, earnings resilience, and the continued momentum of its core banking operations.

The bank continued to deliver a strong income performance during the period under review, generating total operating income of Rs. 25.13 billion, representing a year-on-year (YoY) growth of 12.7% over 1H 2025. This growth was driven entirely by the bank’s core banking operations and is presented before taking into account any financial impact arising from the fraud incident.

Supporting this performance, total revenue increased by 12.8% YoY to Rs. 53.82 billion. Net interest income (NII) grew by 2.8% YoY to Rs. 17.42 billion, supported by prudent balance sheet management, disciplined pricing strategies, and effective asset and liability management. Interest income increased by 8.4% to Rs. 45.86 billion, while interest expense rose by 12.1% to Rs. 28.44 billion. Against the backdrop of the prevailing interest rate environment, the bank’s timely repricing of both loan and deposit portfolios helped sustain margin performance, resulting in a net interest margin (NIM) of 3.8%, compared with 4.1% for FY 2025.

Net fee and commission income continued to be a key contributor to revenue diversification, increasing by 22.4% YoY to Rs. 4.45 billion, driven primarily by credit, cards, operations, and trade-related activities. Other non-fund-based income, comprising gains from trading activities, financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss, derecognition of financial assets, and other operating income, amounted to Rs. 3.26 billion during 1H 2026. Within other operating income, foreign reserve revaluation gains netted Rs. 1.21 billion, and compared with a Rs. 362.37 million in 1H 2025.

Impairment charges on loans and other investments declined to Rs. 3.46 billion, representing a significant 22.9% YoY reduction. Loan impairment charges decreased by 18.7%, reflecting the benefits of the bank’s continued focus on asset quality management, enhanced credit underwriting standards, closer monitoring of asset quality and stage migration trends, and strengthened recovery efforts. The impaired loans (Stage 3) – Net ratio improved to 3.3% as at 30 June 2026 from 3.8% at end-2025, while Stage 3 provision coverage improved further to 62.9% from 59.1%.

Total operating expenses amounted to Rs. 12.18 billion for the period under review, including Rs. 2.55 billion recognised under other operating expenses in relation to the fraud. The comparative operating expense for 1H 2025, adjusted for the fraud-related expense applicable to that period, was Rs. 13.44 billion.

Following the discovery of the fraud within the bank, several announcements were made to the CSE on 2, 6 and 23 April 2026 to keep stakeholders informed of developments. As per the latest update, issued on 26 June, the bank received the Interim Report from Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP (Deloitte), which had been commissioned by the Board of Directors to conduct an independent forensic review of the facts and circumstances surrounding the fraud. Based on Deloitte’s examination conducted thus far, the value of the suspicious transactions identified amounts to Rs. 13.58 billion, versus the initial estimate of Rs. 13.2 billion.

The bank has restated its financial statements, including comparative information for prior periods, to reflect the impact of this revised amount of Rs. 13.58 billion as follows: Rs. 1.42 billion to periods prior to 1 January 2025, Rs. 9.62 billion to the financial year ended 31 December 2025, and Rs. 2.55 billion to the quarter ended 31 March 2026. Accordingly, the Statement of Profit or Loss for the comparative period ended 30 June 2025 and the Statements of Financial Position as at 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025 have been restated.

These restatements have been made in accordance with applicable accounting standards to ensure that the financial statements present a true and fair view of the financial impact arising from the fraud. Following these adjustments, the previously reported post-tax profit of Rs. 9.03 billion for FY 2024 has been restated to Rs. 8.18 billion, while the previously reported post-tax profit of Rs. 11.04 billion for FY 2025 has been restated to Rs. 5.9 billion.

The bank reported total assets of Rs. 949.02 billion as at 30 June 2026 after recognising the financial impact of the fraud, compared with a restated asset base of Rs. 926.14 billion as at 31 December 2025. On an unadjusted basis, total assets as at 30 June 2026 would have amounted to Rs. 960.71 billion, compared with Rs. 935.81 billion at end-2025.

Net loans increased to Rs. 595.28 billion from Rs. 593.6 billion as at 31 December 2025, while total deposits grew to Rs. 712.5 billion from Rs. 707.17 billion. The Bank’s Current Account Savings Account (CASA) ratio stood at 23.6% as at end-1H 2026, compared with 27% at end-2025. Total equity attributable to shareholders amounted to Rs. 80.05 billion, while Group equity stood at Rs. 87.55 billion as at 30 June 2026.

The bank maintained a sound liquidity and capital position throughout the period under review. Liquidity Coverage Ratios (LCR) in both rupee and all-currency terms stood at 163.5% and 163.2%, respectively, while the Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR) was 129.5%. All ratios remained comfortably above the regulatory minimum requirement of 100%.

The bank’s solvency position also remained robust, with Common Equity Tier 1 (CET 1)/Tier I Capital and Total Capital Adequacy Ratios (CAR) of 9.7% and 15.3%, respectively, as at 30 June 2026, remaining above applicable regulatory minimum requirements. The corresponding restated ratios as at 31 December 2025 were 11.3% and 14.8%, respectively.

All Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for 1H 2026 are presented after incorporating the financial impact of the fraud, with comparative figures similarly restated. Return on Average Equity (ROE) improved to 12.7% for 1H 2026, compared with a restated ROE of 7.5% for FY 2025. Pre-tax Return on Average Assets (ROA) was 2.2%, compared with a restated 1.4% for FY 2025.

Annualised Earnings per Share (EPS) increased to Rs. 23.49 from a restated Rs. 13.83 for FY 2025. At Group level, ROE and EPS stood at 11.8% and Rs. 23.54, respectively, compared with restated FY 2025 figures of 8.4% and Rs. 15.77. Net Asset Value (NAV) per share stood at Rs. 185.21 as at 30 June 2026 compared with a restated Rs. 187.67 as at 31 December 2025, while the closing share price was Rs. 112.50 (FY 2025: Rs. 141.25). Group NAV per share was Rs. 199 compared with a restated Rs. 201.61 at end-2025.

Commenting on the bank’s financial performance for 1H 2026, Director/Chief Executive Officer Kelum Edirisinghe said:

‘The bank continues to demonstrate resilience and stability, remaining firmly aligned with its strategic priorities despite the challenges encountered during the year. While dedicated teams remain fully engaged in addressing matters relating to the fraud incident, the broader organisation continues to execute its business strategy with focus, ensuring continuity in operations and service delivery to our customers.

Following the discovery of the fraud, the bank acted swiftly and decisively to strengthen its governance and risk management framework. A comprehensive forensic review by Deloitte is ongoing, while a series of enhanced control measures have already been implemented across the organisation. Investigations by the relevant law enforcement authorities are also progressing independently.

Importantly, the bank remains well-capitalised and liquid, with capital and liquidity buffers comfortably supporting our business operations and future growth ambitions. Our balance sheet strength, coupled with our prudent risk management practices, positions us well to navigate the evolving operating environment.

We remain focused on supporting Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and growth, particularly through continued engagement with the small and medium enterprise (SME) and retail sectors, which are critical drivers of economic activity. The confidence and trust placed in us by our customers, depositors, investors, and other stakeholders have been deeply encouraging, and we remain committed to honouring that trust through consistent execution and responsible stewardship.’

Kiyapo to make possible landfall in Babuyan Islands on Friday

Tropical Depression Kiyapo may make landfall in Babuyan Islands between Friday afternoon or evening, the state weather bureau said on Thursday.

In the 5 p.m. bulletin of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), Kiyapo was last located 640 kilometers east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan as of 4 p.m.

Kiyapo maintained its strength as it was still carrying a maximum wind speed of 45 kph and gustiness of up to 55 kph. It accelerated as it was moving northwestward at 25 kph.

Pagasa said that the tropical depression will continue moving west-northwestward until Saturday towards Luzon Strait before heading northwestward for the remainder of the forecast period.

‘On the forecast track, the center of KIYAPO may pass very close to the northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan between tomorrow (July 24) morning and afternoon, then pass very close or make landfall in the vicinity of Babuyan Islands between tomorrow afternoon and evening,’ the bureau noted.

Kiyapo is also forecast to develop into a tropical storm on Friday and will continue to strengthen while traversing the Extreme Northern Luzon. It may reach a severe tropical storm category after moving past the Babuyan Islands.

Pagasa also said that Kiyapo may exit the Philippine area of responsibility on Saturday morning.

Meanwhile, the bureau shared that Cagayan, Apayao, and Ilocos Norte will experience heavy to intense rainfall (100 to 200 millimeters of rainfall) from Thursday to Friday afternoon. Moderate to heavy rainfall (50 to 100 mm of rainfall) will prevail over Isabela, Batanes, and Ilocos Sur on the same dates

House ready for 5th Marcos Sona: Dy leads final run-through

The House of Representatives is all set to host President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona) on July 27, according to a statement issued by the lower chamber on Wednesday.

‘It’s our duty to make sure that every aspect of the Sona will be orderly, safe, and appropriate for this significant occasion,’ Speaker Faustino ‘Bojie’ Dy III, who joined other House officials on Tuesday in a final run-through and inspection of the plenary hall, said.

‘This day is important, not only for the government but also for every Filipino, because this is the opportunity for the president to give a report on the situation of the country and the direction it is going. The chamber is ready for the fifth State of the Nation Address of the president,’ he added.

‘Simple but dignified’

According to Dy, the House and Malacañan had agreed to keep this year’s Sona ‘simple but dignified,’ as befitting one of the country’s most important constitutional occasions.

Tuesday’s inspection capped weeks of preparations, following the final inter-agency coordination meeting of officials of the House, Senate, and Office of the President.

‘We’re all set,’ House Secretary General Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil earlier said, noting that the inter-agency meeting focused on remaining logistical concerns, including seating arrangements for dignitaries and viewing rooms for guests who could not be accommodated inside the plenary hall.

Garafil had earlier led Malacañan officials in inspecting the route Marcos would take from the rear entrance of the House of Representatives Complex to the plenary hall, where he would deliver his Sona.

The delegation also inspected the plenary hall and other key areas, where officials reviewed the facility upgrades completed in time for this year’s address.

Preparations included significant improvements to the House complex, including the completion of the second and third floors of the main building, upgraded hallways and common areas, and the construction of new al fresco lounges for members and guests.

The historic plenary hall has likewise been fully prepared to host the joint session of Congress.

Contingency measures

To ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees, the House has also put in place extensive contingency measures throughout the complex.

It will deploy around 30 medical personnel from the House Medical and Dental Service, augmented by teams from St. Luke’s Medical Center, Diliman Doctors Hospital, the Philippine Heart Center, and East Avenue Medical Center.

Additional responders from the Department of Health, local government units, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Philippine National Police will also be on standby to respond to any emergency

2027: Northern Christians seek Tinubu’s campaign DG slot, pledge support

A Northern Christian progressive group has urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu to appoint a Northern Christian as Director-General of the President’s 2027 re-election campaign, saying such a move would strengthen inclusiveness and boost support for the party across the region.

The group also pledged its commitment to President Tinubu’s re-election bid, assuring that Northern Christians would continue to support policies and programmes aimed at promoting fairness, justice and national development.

The group’s Secretary, Rev. Hayap Musa Danladi, made the appeal in a statement made available to journalists in Kaduna on Thursday.

Danladi said it was time for Northern Christians to demonstrate their loyalty and political relevance ahead of the 2027 general elections, noting that appointing a Northern Christian to head the presidential campaign would further deepen political inclusion and national cohesion.

He recalled that in the 2023 presidential election, former Plateau State Governor, Mr. Solomon Lalong, was appointed Director-General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, describing the decision as instrumental to the party’s victory.

According to him, President Tinubu should consider appointing another prominent Northern Christian politician to occupy the strategic position in 2027.

‘We appeal to President Bola Tinubu to consider appointing a Christian politician from Northern Nigeria, especially prominent ones, as was done in the 2023 election by appointing former Plateau State Governor, Mr. Solomon Lalong, to steer the election ship.

‘We are optimistic that Lalong, with his widespread support and experience, contributed immensely to securing victory for President Tinubu in the last election.

‘Giving such a position to a Northern Christian will further strengthen the campaign and clear misconceptions and false claims of presidential bias being propagated by political opponents,’ Danladi said.

He added that the inclusion of Northern Christians in the campaign structure would further underscore political acceptance, mutual respect and understanding among Nigerians.

Danladi expressed confidence that Christian politicians in the North would work assiduously for President Tinubu’s re-election in recognition of what he described as the administration’s achievements and transformative policies.

He urged Nigerians to shun religious and ethnic divisions and work collectively towards national development and peaceful coexistence.

‘Christians mean well for all Nigerians. We consider all people equal and focus on nation building without seeing Muslims as opponents or critics of ideas.

‘We must respect individuals, as demonstrated by President Bola Tinubu through his style of leadership, which works in the interest of all Nigerians,’ he added.

Also speaking, the Leader of the Northern Christian Youth, Mr. Zakaria Bitrus Gwasshi, commended President Tinubu for what he described as his administration’s achievements, commitment to fairness and efforts at promoting national unity despite prevailing challenges.

Gwasshi said the President’s blueprint for tackling insecurity, economic development and promoting peaceful coexistence was yielding positive results, particularly in addressing religious tensions in states such as Bauchi, Kaduna, Plateau and Benue without bias or witch-hunt.

He reiterated the group’s support for the Tinubu administration and expressed optimism that greater political inclusion would further strengthen national unity and democratic governance.

Quezon town mayor slams slow P67-B classroom construction program

Infanta town Mayor Arnel Ruanto has criticized the slow implementation of the Department of Education’s classroom construction program, saying students and teachers in his municipality continue to endure unsafe and inadequate learning conditions despite the record education budget allocated this year.

‘Like millions of parents and students, I cannot help but wonder: Why is the implementation so slow? In my hometown of Infanta (in Quezon province), not a single classroom has yet been built by the Department of Education,’ Ruanto said in a Facebook post in Filipino on Wednesday. Infanta currently hosts 22 public grade schools and high schools, according to the DepEd website.

The mayor said it pains him to visit public schools that still rely on makeshift classrooms. ‘Many of these structures are locally called ‘banlat’ or ‘pig pens’ because of their poor condition. During extremely hot days, students have to sit inside classrooms holding umbrellas to shield themselves from the scorching heat,’ Ruanto said.

‘When it rains, they continue their lessons while getting soaked, again using umbrellas inside the classroom,’ he added.

Ruanto also said some classrooms designed for a single class have been divided into two using only plywood partitions.

‘We cannot keep asking our students and teachers to wait indefinitely for a solution,’ he said.

According to the mayor, Infanta has a backlog of more than 100 classrooms, excluding school buildings that have already been condemned or are awaiting demolition for being unsafe.

‘We need to know why this situation has persisted. Amid the extreme heat brought by the recent weather conditions, our students and teachers should no longer be forced to hold classes in makeshift shelters-or worse, under the shade of trees because there are no safe classrooms available,’ he said.

This coastal municipality in northern Quezon has recorded dangerous heat index levels in recent weeks.

Ruanto pointed out that the government allocated P1.015 trillion for education this year-the largest in Philippine history-including P67 billion earmarked for classroom construction.

‘Puzzling and disappointing,’ the mayor said in describing the continued delays.

‘I know many capable and committed people in DepEd-from the Secretary and Undersecretaries to the Assistant Secretaries, Directors, and countless personnel-who have worked tirelessly to improve our education system,’ he said.

Ruanto said the municipality’s Special Education Fund (SEF) amounts to only P4 million, enough to construct just one classroom based on DepEd’s standard cost estimates.

Despite limited resources, he said the local government has pursued alternative solutions through a ‘construction-by-administration’ approach, allowing the municipality to build classrooms without hiring private contractors and significantly reducing construction costs.

With assistance from private donors who contributed funds, construction materials, and skilled labor, the municipal government built a classroom at Dinahican Elementary School for only P1.5 million.

The local government also improved five classrooms at Binulasan Integrated School and Tongohin Elementary School at a total cost of about P1.5 million.

In addition, the town launched the ‘Adopt-a-Classroom Challenge,’ encouraging municipal offices, national government agencies based in Infanta, and members of the people’s council to adopt and rehabilitate one classroom each.

‘While these are modest initiatives, they embody the spirit of bayanihan for education and help ease the daily burden faced by our teachers and students,’ Ruanto said.

The mayor acknowledged that local efforts alone cannot address the town’s classroom shortage.

‘DepEd has funding under the General Appropriations Act. That is why I, together with the people of Infanta, support Senator Bam Aquino’s legislative inquiry into the slow implementation of classroom construction,’ he said.

Last week, Sen. Bam Aquino announced that the Senate Committee on Basic Education would investigate the implementation of the P67-billion Classroom Acceleration Program funded under the 2026 national budget to construct 25,000 classrooms nationwide.