Local officials, barangay leaders, government offices, and representatives from various sectors gathered for the People’s Day and Public Consultation and Hearing on August 17, 2026, at Kirigtaan Hall to discuss updates and concerns on peace and order, health, disaster preparedness, tourism, infrastructure, and local development.

For peace and order, PNP Chief Andres Samantilla reported that Paranas remains drug-cleared, with 16 barangays classified as drug-cleared and 28 as drug-free. He also reported the successful clearing of the municipality’s lone theft case and four non-index crimes. Vice Mayor Atty. Eunice Babalcon expressed the local government’s continued support for the police force and emphasized the shared responsibility of barangays in maintaining peace and order.

The BFP, led by SFO4 Arnel Rabadam, also announced the arrival of a new fire truck for Paranas through the support of DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla and the initiatives of Mayor Elvira Babalcon and Vice Mayor Babalcon.

For infrastructure and development, Engr. Alex O. Calinao of the Municipal Planning and Development Office presented the municipality’s programs, projects, and activities, including the 2027 Annual Investment Plan (AIP), which has been approved and endorsed to the Sangguniang Bayan.

The Engineering Office, led by Engr. Jay Roman Mahinay, reminded residents that new houses must have designated parking spaces to help prevent obstruction along roads and public passageways.

For the Integrated Paranas Community Information System (IPCIS), Engr. Jade Ian Rondina reported that 36 of the 44 barangays have completed the survey, with eight barangays remaining.

The Sangguniang Bayan, represented by Hon. Glen Tan also reported recent legislative measures supporting agricultural education through NwSSU, youth leadership through the KAPASIDAD program, and the use of the Eco-Bricks Building in Barangay Concepcion as classrooms for the GIDA Extension Class Pilot Cohort. Recently approved ordinances also include measures promoting anti-discrimination and the ASENSO entrepreneurship support program, providing opportunities and support for qualified sectors in the community.

A public hearing was also held on the proposed Municipal Tourism Ordinance, presented by Municipal Vice Mayor Atty. Eunice Babalcon. The proposed measure aims to promote inclusive, sustainable, and community-based tourism while ensuring proper waste management and environmental protection.

The Municipal Health Office, led by Dr. Francis Langi Jr., urged the public not to believe or spread misinformation about the Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA), emphasizing that measles remains a health concern and that community support is important in protecting children. The office also reported increasing Chikungunya cases in Zones 5 and 6, prompting plans for intensified fogging operations in affected areas.

The MDRRM Office, through MDRRMO-designate Roquel Babalcon, reported 15 road accident cases, mostly linked to drunk driving and roaming animals, with minors involved in several incidents. The office also presented activities conducted during the National Disaster Resilience Month, including water rationing and participation in Ikmat Samar.

Residents were reminded to remain prepared for the possible effects of El Niño, which may continue until early 2027, as well as the possible occurrence of tropical cyclones.

New DILG MLGOO Ms. Dina Isanan was introduced during the gathering and reminded public officials about the prohibition on entering cockfighting arenas. The DILG also recognized seven Paranas barangays that passed the 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance for Barangays (SGLG-B): Lawaan 2, Bagsa, Pequit, Casandig 2, Bato, Poblacion 3, and Poblacion 4.

CSO representative Cristine Abalos also reported on livelihood monitoring among farmers’ associations and other activities undertaken by the federation.

The People’s Day provided a platform for the Local Government Unit of Paranas, barangays, and civil society organizations to share updates, raise concerns, and work together on practical solutions to improve public services and promote the safety, health, and overall welfare of the people of Paranas.

More photos at The Official Facebook Page of The Municipal Government of Paranas, Samar