Misamis Oriental Governor Criticized for Misogynistic Remarks

Published

4 weeks ago

April 7, 2025

Filman

📷: Inquirer.net

MANILA, Philippines — Following the controversy surrounding a Pasig congressional candidate, another politician, this time from Mindanao, is under scrutiny for making misogynistic remarks during a campaign event.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is expected to issue a show cause order against Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia for comments he made about the nursing profession. Unabia, who is running for re-election in the upcoming May elections, stated that his administration’s nursing scholarship program was only for “beautiful women,” suggesting that unattractive nurses could worsen a patient’s condition.

During a campaign rally in Villanueva town on Thursday, Unabia said, “This nursing scholarship is for women only, not men. And only for beautiful women.” He further added, “It’s not for the unattractive, because if a male patient who is already weak is attended by an ugly nurse, what would happen? Their condition might worsen.”

Youth advocate Cyrus Arado-Ubay Valcueba shared a video of Unabia’s remarks on social media, which quickly went viral. Valcueba expressed his disappointment, writing, “It’s sad that our current leader is a sexist and racist. Imagine, there’s a nursing scholarship in the province, but you can’t avail of it if you don’t meet the governor’s standards.”

In response to the controversy, Comelec Chair George Garcia confirmed that a show cause order would be issued against Unabia, similar to the one issued against Pasig congressional candidate Christian Sia, who also faced backlash for a misogynistic comment about single mothers.

Garcia emphasized that sexist remarks and gender-based discrimination should not be tolerated in political campaigns. He also stated that Comelec would not stop issuing show cause orders until those responsible are held accountable.

In addition to his remarks on the scholarship program, Unabia made controversial comments targeting the Moro community. He implied that if his son’s political opponent, a candidate married to a Maranao politician, were to win, the Maranaos would dominate the region, potentially leading to security instability similar to the situation in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Human Rights Watch Senior Researcher Carlos Conde described Unabia’s anti-Muslim rhetoric as “deeply concerning,” pointing out that Mindanao has long struggled with conflict and harmony.

Unabia later issued a statement claiming that the video circulating online was a “distorted version” of his comments and clarified that he did not intend to disrespect the Maranao people.

News credit to: INQUIRER.NET

Pagadian

Pagadian City Unveils New Water Park at Baywalk — Now Open to the Public

Published

1 day ago

April 30, 2025

News Team

Pagadian City Water Park Photo taken by Bamz Xeille Dolar

A refreshing new attraction has opened its gates in Pagadian City — the Pagadian City Water Park, situated along the scenic Baywalk in Barangay Santiago. Officially launched today, the facility is now open to the public and is already drawing excitement from locals and nearby residents.

The newly constructed water park offers a variety of family-friendly amenities designed for leisure and recreation. From splash zones for kids to shaded lounging areas, the park adds a vibrant new layer to the city’s popular Baywalk destination.

In a welcome move, all facilities within the park are currently free to use, as there is no ordinance or legislation yet in place allowing the local government to collect usage fees. This makes it a budget-friendly option for families looking to cool off and enjoy quality time outdoors.

City officials expressed optimism about the water park’s potential to boost activity in the Baywalk area, anticipating increased foot traffic and greater public engagement. The project is part of the city’s broader effort to enhance public spaces and promote tourism and recreation within Pagadian.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the new water park and enjoy its offerings while it remains free of charge.

Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or simply want to unwind by the sea, the Pagadian City Water Park is set to become a go-to destination for fun, relaxation, and community gathering.

Man Bitten by Crocodile After Entering Its Enclosure in Zamboanga Sibugay

Published

1 day ago

April 30, 2025

News Team

Screenshots from the video by Garry Berug Bautista | SunStar Davao

ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR — A man from Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay, identified as Eric (also referred to as Brod Eric), was severely injured after being attacked by a crocodile named Lalay when he entered its enclosure, reportedly out of affection for animals.

According to a Facebook post that went viral, Eric lives near the crocodile’s enclosure and has always considered himself an animal lover. He allegedly treats animals of all kinds as friends. On the day of the incident, Eric decided to approach the crocodile’s enclosure and even spoke to the reptile, believing he could interact with it safely.

He initially interpreted the crocodile wagging its tail as a sign of friendliness. Encouraged by this, Eric entered the enclosure. However, the crocodile suddenly bit his leg and dragged him into the water. He was unable to escape and was reportedly tossed around by the crocodile.

Rescue efforts were delayed as the crocodile’s owner took time to arrive, and local police hesitated to intervene, fearing consequences from harming a protected animal. Eric was only released after the owner arrived and managed to call off the crocodile.

Eric is currently being treated for his injuries at Margosatubig Regional Hospital in Zamboanga del Sur.

Contrary to speculation online, Eric is not mentally unstable. He is a graduate of Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) in Zamboanga City, holding a degree in Education. He had previously applied to join the Philippine National Police (PNP), but the application did not proceed due to the recent incident.

The act was not a publicity stunt, according to those close to him, but rather a reflection of his deep compassion for animals—a passion that unfortunately led to this dangerous encounter.

Friends and community members are asking for prayers for his speedy recovery.

Features

How a New Pope Is Chosen: Inside the Papal Conclave

Published

1 week ago

April 23, 2025

News Team

The election of a new pope is one of the most sacred and secretive traditions in the Roman Catholic Church. Known as the papal conclave, this process has been in place for centuries and follows a precise series of steps.

It begins when a pope dies or resigns. In such cases, the Catholic Church enters a period known as sede vacante, Latin for “the seat being vacant.” During this time, the governance of the Church is temporarily overseen by the College of Cardinals.

Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. These cardinals travel to the Vatican and are secluded within the Sistine Chapel. The word “conclave” itself comes from the Latin meaning “with a key,” reflecting the secrecy and isolation of the voting process.

Each day, up to four voting rounds may take place—two in the morning and two in the afternoon. Cardinals write their chosen candidate’s name on a ballot, which they place in a chalice on the altar. A two-thirds majority is required to elect a new pope.

After each voting session, the ballots are burned. If no decision is reached, black smoke rises from the chapel chimney. White smoke, however, signals that a new pope has been elected.

Once the final vote is cast and a candidate accepts the role, he selects a new papal name. The world is then informed with the iconic announcement: “Habemus Papam”—”We have a pope.” The new pontiff is then introduced on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, marking the start of his papacy.

This ancient process blends tradition, faith, and ceremony, uniting millions of Catholics worldwide in a moment of profound significance.

Photo credit to: ABC News