Aug. 18, 2024
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines, in partnership with the Bangsamoro Commission on Preservation of Cultural Heritage and the city government of Marawi, unveiled four new historical markers in the city, titled “Pagtatanggol sa Marawi,” “Labanan sa Marawi,” “Amai Pakpak” and “Kota Marawi.” The markers honor the Meranaw fighters led by Amai Pakpak, also known as Datu Akadir Akobar, who bravely defended Marawi against the Spanish forces. The fighters successfully repelled the Spaniards’ initial attack in 1891, but four years later, Spanish forces led by Gov. Gen. Ramon Blanco returned with a larger troop and more advanced weaponry, resulting in the defeat and deaths of several Meranaw fighters, including Amai Pakpak on March 10, 1895.
Aug. 20, 2025
The Department of Health (DOH) inaugurated the Cancer Care Center at Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, expanding the delivery of cancer treatment and related services in the Negros Island region. The two-story healthcare facility, which costs over P35 million, is equipped to deliver intravenous chemotherapy, bone marrow biopsies, lumbar punctures, intrathecal chemotherapy, child life services, and seamless referrals for radiotherapy. The ground level serves cancer patients, from consultation to patient and family counseling, and the patient’s chemotherapy; while the second level houses the child life program clinic, survivorship or quality of life clinic, cancer research office and conference room. Also located in the upper level are the oncology pharmacy, DOH-Philippine Health Insurance Corp. access office, billing and medical social services stations, and staff office. The facility, which formally opened on Aug. 26, 2025, is the first public cancer care center in the region.
