AGP Executive Report

Earthquake Response: DepEd says 1,501 public schools in 24 provinces across six regions were damaged by the June 8 magnitude 7.8 quake in Maasim, Sarangani, with immediate repair and cleanup needs pegged at P341.04 million—covering thousands of classrooms and hundreds of water, sanitation and hygiene facilities. Urban Trees Under Scrutiny: DENR is investigating earth-balling and tree-cutting linked to the SALEX project, checking whether contractors followed environmental protocols and permit conditions, warning that urban trees are protected resources. Water Security Push: DENR is expanding low-cost community water refilling stations, with six already operating and 18 more being installed, aiming for 49 stations by year-end to ease household costs and strengthen local water access. Oil Spill Monitoring: BFAR continues assessing an oil spill after the LCT MSCI 1 grounded and sank off Ilocos Norte, with containment done and checks underway for fisheries and fisherfolk impacts. Heat and Rain Outlook: Pagasa reports low chances of widespread rain over the weekend due to easterlies and a monsoon break, while heat index advisories in parts of Cavite and Quezon remain in the “danger” range. Wildlife Watch: A Philippine Eagle was spotted in Isabela’s Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park, reinforcing calls to protect undisturbed, biologically rich forests. El Niño Prep: DENR urges early water-saving steps as El Niño conditions emerge, stressing protection of drinking water and essential services. Waste Management Update: Davao City’s new sanitary landfill is set to resume operations Tuesday after a prior suspension tied to a trash slide that killed two people.

Water Security Push: DENR says six low-cost community water refilling stations are now operating nationwide, with 18 more being installed and 49 targeted by year-end, aiming to cut household costs and strengthen local water access. Heat Risk Alerts: Despite the rainy season start, Imus, Cavite and parts of Quezon saw “danger” heat index readings around 42°C, with officials urging residents to limit midday exposure to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke. El Niño Prep: DENR urged public water conservation as El Niño odds rise, while Manila Water said it’s boosting monitoring and maintenance to handle shifting habagat and dry-season impacts. Oil Spill Response: BFAR is monitoring an Ilocos Norte spill after a cargo vessel grounded and sank, with responders containing leaked oil and assessing impacts on fisheries and fisherfolk livelihoods. Biodiversity Spot: DENR documented a family of northern rufous hornbills in Bicol Natural Park, a sign of habitat support for a threatened species. Renewables & Offshore Wind: Norway and the Philippines are advancing offshore wind readiness via DOE and ADB talks, while a Leyte forum highlighted renewable energy as a hedge against fuel volatility. Independence Day Climate Angle: Local leaders tied “freedom” to tackling poverty and also reducing fossil fuel dependence. Marine Conservation Trade Pressure: Negros Occidental urged national action after a US ban on Philippine blue swimming crab imports, citing marine mammal protection compliance gaps. Electric Mobility Trial: Bataan officials explored Swedish electric hydrofoiling ferries as a cleaner, faster coastal transport option.

Biodiversity Watch: DENR spotted a family of four northern rufous hornbills (“kalaw”) in Bicol Natural Park, using drone-assisted monitoring to confirm the threatened bird is still thriving in protected forest habitat. Disaster Response: DENR deployed air and sea assets to support rescue, potable water, medical evacuation, and relief delivery in quake-hit Glan, Sarangani, where landslides have cut access. Heat Risk: Imus City and Taytay, Rizal issued public advisories after heat indexes hit dangerous levels, warning residents about heat cramps, exhaustion, and heat stroke. Renewables Push: Bago Negros Energy Corp broke ground on a 150-megawatt wind project in Negros Occidental, aiming to strengthen the Visayas grid with the first NIR wind facility. Waste & Pollution Fight: Environmental groups urged ADB to halt funding for waste-to-energy incineration and other “false solutions,” saying they worsen pollution and harm communities. Marine Protection: Fisherfolk in Navotas protested Manila Bay reclamation on World Oceans Day, saying it is already disrupting mussel farming and threatening coastal ecosystems. Climate & Water: Manila Water activated habagat preparedness while El Niño conditions raise the risk of shifting rainfall patterns.

Disaster Response: The DENR ramped up air-and-sea support for quake-hit Glan, Sarangani, moving potable water, medical help, and relief goods as landslides cut access, working with the Office of Civil Defense and partners for search-and-rescue. Heat Risk: In Cavite and Rizal, authorities warned residents after dangerous heat index readings (up to 51.38°C in Taytay and 44.1°C in Imus), urging hydration and caution against heat cramps, exhaustion, and heat stroke. Marine Protection & Pollution: Fisherfolk in Navotas marked World Oceans Day with a protest against Manila Bay reclamation, saying it’s already disrupted mussel farming and threatens marine ecosystems; meanwhile, Ilocos Norte cleanup continues after a cargo vessel ran aground and leaked oil, with Coast Guard water sampling for DENR testing. Climate & Weather Outlook: Pagasa said Habagat is weakening over the Independence Day long weekend, with fairer conditions expected but brief thunderstorms possible in parts of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Water Security: Manila Water highlighted the Upper Wawa Dam as climate-resilient supply augmentation for East Zone households amid shifting weather patterns.

Earthquake recovery and safer schools: After the Mindanao 7.8 quake, President Marcos and Education Sec. Sonny Angara inspected damaged schools in General Santos City, while DepEd estimated an initial P245.8M for cleanup, debris removal, and repairs across 1,022 public schools and 4,622 classrooms. Disaster preparedness funding: A former lawmaker urged the admin to fund the Permanent Evacuation Centers Act (R.A. 12076), saying two years after passage, no budget has been set despite tens of thousands evacuated. Risk, not just hazards: A UP Diliman analysis says disaster risk depends on more than exposure—socioeconomic vulnerability and coping capacity can matter just as much. Climate and water resilience: With Habagat starting alongside El Niño conditions, Manila Water highlighted the Upper Wawa Dam as climate-resilient supply for East Zone. Marine protection push: Fishers and youth groups rallied at UP Diliman to defend the country’s 15-kilometer municipal waters from commercial encroachment. Biodiversity spotlight: UP Marine Science Institute launched a webpage on Pag-asa Island to share West Philippine Sea life and research. Marine pollution incident: Authorities launched cleanup after a cargo vessel ran aground and spilled oil in Ilocos Norte. Wildlife stranding: A necropsy on a stranded false killer whale in Oriental Mindoro pointed to a middle-ear fracture that may have disrupted navigation. Air quality policy: A Bay Area board adopted a $480.1M budget and overhauled an air toxics rule after clashes between industry and environmental justice advocates.

Earthquake Recovery: The Department of Education estimates an initial P245.8 million for cleanup, debris removal, and repairs in Mindanao quake-affected schools, covering 1,022 public schools and 4,622 classrooms across 19 provinces, with costs expected to rise after assessments of heavily damaged structures. Disaster Risk & Governance: A UP Diliman analysis says the provinces most exposed to hazards aren’t always the most at risk—socioeconomic vulnerability and coping capacity can matter as much as the hazard itself, shaping overall multi-hazard risk. Rainy Season Watch: PAGASA says habagat has weakened but localized thunderstorms are still expected, while farmers worry El Niño conditions may keep rainfall too scattered for planting. Marine Protection: Fishers and youth groups renewed calls to protect the 15-kilometer municipal waters from commercial encroachment, warning it threatens breeding and nursery habitats. Oil Spill Response: In Ilocos Norte, authorities reported about 100 liters of oily water along a shoreline after the cargo vessel MSCI 1 ran aground, with booms, pads, and recovery operations underway. Watershed & Land Use: Baguio City council approved a conditional road bypass through the Buyog Watershed to improve emergency access, but required safeguards and accountability to prevent future encroachment.

El Niño Watch: PAGASA says El Niño conditions are now present in the tropical Pacific, with an 80% chance of a full event that could last until early 2027—raising risks of below-normal rainfall and dry spells, while habagat rains may still bring flooding in some areas. Earthquake Response: After the 7.8 quake in Mindanao, Dole will form a specialized rescue team to protect workers during disasters, while DepEd-Gensan is urging donations of key rebuilding materials for damaged schools. Power Restoration: Electric co-ops are sending linemen to restore electricity in quake-hit areas, including a Cotabato Electric Cooperative team deployed under a mutual aid “Task Force Kapatid” effort. Marine Protection Push: France and the Philippines backed the BBNJ marine biodiversity treaty, framing it as a way to strengthen protections for the West Philippine Sea and high seas ecosystems. Coral Reef Damage: A new study finds scuba divers frequently make reef contacts that can cause observable damage, with programs like Green Fins helping reduce contact rates. Waste & Enforcement: DILG will investigate Davao City officials over reported garbage dumping in front of DENR after a landfill suspension. Space for Resilience: Marcos approved plans for a constellation of Earth observation satellites under the MULA program to support agriculture, maritime monitoring, disaster response, and security.

Earthquake Aftermath: A magnitude 7.8 quake off Mindanao (near Sarangani) has killed at least 37 people and injured hundreds, with damage reported in General Santos and nearby provinces; tsunami alerts were issued across parts of the region before being lifted as monitoring continued. Disaster Response & Safety: Authorities warned residents not to enter damaged structures as aftershocks and landslides complicated rescue, while evacuation centers and relief routes were readied. Marine & Coastal Monitoring: The quake triggered tsunami advisories and wave observations in nearby areas, underscoring the need for fast coastal risk communication. Wildlife Protection: In Sarangani, DENR-linked investigators seized 53 exotic and native birds and launched a manhunt for those behind an illegal wildlife trade operation. Water Pollution Control: Manila Water is accelerating the Batasan–Balara wastewater diversion to route sewage to the Marikina North Sewage Treatment Plant, aiming to cut pollution load in urban waterways. Biodiversity & Conservation Tech: PhilSA says President Marcos approved the MULA Earth-observation satellite constellation for agriculture, maritime monitoring, and disaster risk reduction. Habagat Weather: PAGASA forecasts habagat-driven cloudy skies, scattered rains, and thunderstorms over parts of Northern/Central Luzon, with caution advised for small vessels and fisherfolk.

Earthquake & Tsunami Response: A 7.8-magnitude quake struck southern Mindanao near Sarangani, killing at least 35 and injuring 144, with tsunami warnings across parts of the region later lifted as small waves were recorded; Japan and Indonesia also issued and then eased alerts. Safe Schools: The Alliance of Concerned Teachers flagged reports of damaged school buildings as classes opened nationwide, urging authorities to ensure safe learning spaces. Flood Control Push: The World Bank urged DPWH and MMDA to finish the long-delayed Metro Manila flood-control project, warning delays and resettlement issues could still derail completion before financing closes. Wildlife Crime Crackdown: In Sarangani, authorities launched a manhunt after a raid recovered 53 exotic and native birds, highlighting ongoing illegal wildlife trade risks. Marine Resource Watch: BFAR Bicol is investigating declining “baloko” pen shell stocks in Sorsogon Bay, with overharvesting suspected from air-compressor diving. Waste & Water Quality: Manila Water is accelerating a wastewater diversion project to cut pollution in waterways and expand sewer coverage for thousands of households.

Earthquake & Tsunami Response: A powerful 7.8 quake off Mindanao triggered tsunami warnings across the Philippines and Japan, with waves detected in multiple coastal areas and evacuations urged; Indonesia later lifted its tsunami warning after sea levels stabilized, while Japan’s advisory was also eventually raised then lifted as monitoring continued. Disaster Risk for Schools: The quake struck as classes reopened, prompting urgent calls to protect teachers and learners after reports of damaged and collapsed school buildings, with local officials moving students to safety. Weather Watch: PAGASA said the southwest monsoon (habagat) slightly weakened under a monsoon break, bringing generally fair conditions nationwide with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms, while parts of Luzon may still see scattered rains. Climate Finance Bottlenecks: A PIDS study says Filipinos are highly concerned about climate change, but financing gaps, local capacity limits, and weak coordination are slowing climate resilience and adaptation efforts. Local Environment Month: Negros Occidental kicked off its 34th Provincial Environment Month with tree- and mangrove-growing activities plus cleanups, pushing climate action at the community level.

Waste Crisis in Cebu: Cebu is facing an urgent waste management crunch, with calls for faster local action before 2030 after the Binaliw landfill tragedy highlighted how close the system is to breaking. Wildlife & Health Watch: DENR reported migratory barn and Pacific swallows in Tiaong, Quezon tested negative for bird flu, supporting ongoing zoonotic disease monitoring. Manila Bay Cleanup Push: DENR is ramping up Manila Bay rehabilitation with The Ocean Cleanup, using river interceptors to cut plastic flowing into the bay. Circular Economy Debate (Davao): A local commentary argues Davao should prioritize waste prevention, reuse, and recycling over waste-to-energy incineration, warning it undermines a circular system. Rights of Nature in Cordillera: The Catholic Church is urging Cordillera LGUs to pass ordinances recognizing ecosystems as legal entities that can be defended in court. Rainfall Outlook: PAGASA said habagat will bring rains over parts of Luzon, with Ilocos areas expecting heavy rainfall and Metro Manila seeing scattered storms. School Community Drive: DepEd’s Brigada Eskwela expands into “Brigada Pamilya,” with families helping prepare safer school spaces for the June 8 opening.

Heat Risk Watch: Atimonan, Quezon recorded a dangerous 44°C heat index even as the rainy season began, prompting advisories to avoid prolonged sun exposure. Monsoon Update: PAGASA said the southwest monsoon (“habagat”) will bring occasional rains over parts of Luzon, with Metro Manila and nearby provinces seeing scattered showers and thunderstorms, while the monsoon is expected to slightly weaken. Wildlife & Health: DENR reported migratory swallows in Tiaong, Quezon tested negative for avian influenza after wildlife disease surveillance. Legal Push for Nature: A Catholic Church-led Green Northern Luzon project urged Cordillera LGUs to pass “Rights of Nature” ordinances so forests and polluted waterways can seek protection in court. Waste Enforcement: DENR-EMB condemned trash dumping in front of the DENR Region XI office in Davao, calling it illegal under the solid waste law. Clean Energy Deals: Acwa Power Philippines signed a JDA with Emerging Power to pursue up to 5,000MW clean energy, and separately leased a 500-hectare New Clark City site for a solar-plus-battery project. Biodiversity Recognition: UNESCO added the Matibay na Bayan ng Sablayan Biosphere Reserve in Occidental Mindoro to its World Network, and DENR documented rare Jade Vine sightings in Quezon’s Buenavista Protected Landscape.

Power Reliability Probe: Senate President pro tempore Sherwin Gatchalian filed an inquiry into NGCP’s frequent red/yellow grid alerts and recent Luzon-Visayas power interruptions, warning El Niño could worsen the power-supply gap. Wildlife Enforcement: Cebu authorities arrested a resort manager and rescued P3.5M worth of endangered wildlife in a raid, while DENR and CIDG also recovered 53 native and exotic species in Sarangani. Waste & Landfill Safety: EMB condemned illegal garbage dumping in front of DENR Region XI in Davao City after the sanitary landfill suspension following a deadly trash slide. Biodiversity Recognition: UNESCO added Sablayan’s Matibay na Bayan biosphere reserve to its World Network, and DENR documented the rare endangered Jade Vine in Quezon’s Buenavista Protected Landscape. Climate & Weather Watch: Tropical Depression Ester is forecast to exit the PAR Saturday morning as habagat rains continue to affect parts of Luzon. Circular Economy Push: Palawan communities hit 70,000 used bottles collected in GSMI’s BOTEful Philippines program, boosting reuse and recycling. Energy Transition: PetroGreen secured an ECC for its 98.2-MW Panitan solar farm in Capiz, and Central Luzon police trained on solar installation. Flood Readiness: Taguig will install advanced flood forecasting and early warning systems with DOST-PAGASA.

Garbage Crisis & Enforcement: The DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau condemned illegal dumping in front of its Region XI office in Davao City, calling it a violation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act after a trash slide at the Davao City Sanitary Landfill led to a suspension of operations. Waste Processing: Cebu City opened its “Ecostation” at the SRP, aiming to divert landfill-bound waste and cut daily landfill volume by up to 15 tons through material recovery and processing. Flood Resilience: Valenzuela City completed upgrades on nine pumping stations to reduce rainy-season flooding in low-lying communities. Wildlife Protection: Authorities in Cebu arrested a resort manager and rescued P3.5M worth of caged wildlife (including parrots and macaws) for alleged violations of the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act; in Sarangani, another operation recovered dozens of native and exotic species. Biodiversity Spot: DENR documented the endangered Jade Vine in Buenavista Protected Landscape in Quezon, highlighting the area’s role as habitat for threatened flora. Storm Update: PAGASA said Tropical Depression Ester has exited the PAR, but habagat will still bring strong gusts and rains that can trigger flooding and landslides in parts of Luzon. Climate Action on the Ground: On World Environment Day, Sen. Loren Legarda highlighted climate impacts on fisherfolk and farmers and pointed to key environmental laws supporting resilience.

Renewables Push: Ateneo researchers flagged three Visayas straits—San Bernardino, San Juanico, and Cebu—as top tidal power sites, saying tapping even a slice of tidal potential could help cover current power needs. Climate & Heat: PAGASA says it will temporarily suspend daily heat index bulletins starting June 5 as the rainy season begins in western Luzon and Visayas, while Infanta, Quezon still faces “dangerous” heat index levels around 45°C despite rains. Storm Watch: Tropical Depression Ester remains under TCWS No. 1 over Batanes, with forecasts pointing to exit from the Philippine area of responsibility by Saturday and possible strengthening near East China Sea. Waste & Water Safety: DENR-Davao denied claims that Marcos ordered a landfill shutdown after a trash slide, while Surigao City held a World Environment Day cleanup collecting residual, biodegradable, and recyclable waste. Mercury Crackdown: Environmental groups urged stronger action against illegal mercury trade after Indonesia seized liquid mercury smuggled toward Davao. Food Security Planning: House Speaker Bojie Dy called for proactive El Niño preparations as an 80% chance of development is cited for June-August. Marine Pollution Alert: DENR launched an investigation into alleged untreated sewage discharge by a ferry off Camiguin.

Climate Risk Watch: House Speaker Bojie Dy III urged the government to prepare now for El Niño, citing an 80% chance of development by August and warning of below-normal rainfall that could hit farmers and food security. Weather Updates: PAGASA declared the rainy season start for western Luzon and Visayas under habagat, while Tropical Depression Ester intensified and triggered Signal No. 1 over Batanes, with strong winds and heavy rains possible. Heat + Health: Even with rain, Infanta, Quezon faces “dangerous” heat index levels around 45°C, highlighting how extreme heat can persist and raise heat illness risks. Forest + Infrastructure Conflict: World Environment Day protests in Manila targeted tree-cutting for the SALEx Southern Access Link Expressway, after more than 225 trees were felled and groups said biodiversity and community welfare are at stake. Pollution + Enforcement: DENR warned against swimming in El Nido’s Bacuit Bay due to elevated coliform levels, linked to untreated wastewater discharge; in Cebu, a viral video of illegal dumping led to citations and a public apology. Waste Crisis: Davao City faces a critical solid waste management crunch after a landfill collapse and DENR’s suspension of operations, leaving garbage piling up in streets. Wildlife Conservation: Antique moved to boost ecotourism and biodiversity with a signed agreement to create a bird-watching area in Aningalan Experimental Forest. Renewables Push: Ateneo researchers flagged Visayas straits (San Bernardino, San Juanico, Cebu) as promising tidal power sites, adding to the country’s push for cleaner energy. Energy + Environment: DENR ordered closure of a Misamis Oriental steel plant after radioactive materials were found in imported scrap metals used in production. Urban Food Security: Manila relaunched the Luneta Urban Garden to boost food supply via technology-driven urban farming. Circular Economy: MMDA and JCI Manila launched Project Hiraya to turn plastic waste into school chairs and tables.