SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Region 1 was conferred with the “Bannuar Ti Amianan” (Heroes of  the North) award by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD). OCD Director Melchito Castro said the coveted award was given to the social welfare agency for its leading role in relief and rehabilitation efforts during the onslaught of typhoons “Helen” and “Gener,” and heavy monsoon rains in 2012. “The restoration of families and communities and the immediate provision of family food packs to requesting local government units were among the primary concerns of DSWD.  The dedication demonstrated in the events of calamity, sacrificing time and resources in saving lives of others is worth commending through the Bannuar ti Amianan Award,” he said. (Freddie G. Lazaro)

REPORTER SHOT

BACOOR, Cavite — A local media practitioner was shot yesterday by two motorcycle-riding men on Aguinaldo Highway in Barangay Mambog of this city, police said. Jun Baldecantos was brought to Medical Center Imus (MCI) in neighboring Imus City for treatment of bullet wounds, it was reported. The two assailants, who wore black jackets, fled on board a black motorcycle. Baldecantos is a correspondent for some national and local tabloids. Initial investigation showed that the assailants shot Baldecantos while he was waiting for a ride on the highway at 9:20 a.m. Wednesday. As of press time, Baldecantos is still under observation at the MCI. (Anthony Giron)

GAWAD NOMINEES

LUCENA CITY, Quezon — The provincial office of agriculture has announced the search for nominees for the “Gawad Saka” awards which honors outstanding farmers, fishermen and associations in the province. Provincial Agriculture chief Roberto Gajo has been instructed by Quezon Governor David C. Suarez to look for the best farmers and fisher folks in the province to recognize their efforts and exemplary accomplishments in the province’s agricultural development.  (Danny Estacio)

HAZING PROBE

URDANETA CITY, Pangasinan — Police  Supt. Paquito Navarrete  yesterday assured the public of a thorough investigation into the alleged hazing of students by a fraternity at the  Camantiles National High School in Urdaneta  City. “There is no place in Urdaneta for hazing which is strictly banned especially hazing of students,” Navarette said. The  police chief encouraged also  encourage  the family of the  hazing victim to go to the police and file a complaint. (Liezle  Basa Inigo )

BRIDGE COLLAPSES

MACALELON, Quezon — Ten minors were injured when the hanging bridge they were crossing collapsed and fell into the river in Barangay Masipag in this town. Police identified the minors as Airabell Ubaña, 16; Ryan Ceazar y Gumabon, 2; Mariel Cangas, 16, Karen Samadan,16; Ylhyn Joie Lagumen, 17; Reyzel Ann Escleto, 13; Jayzel Dalde Ramiro, 14; Kate Izza Joy Ramiro, 14;  Erinette Dela Cruz, 15; and Rannel Dela Paz, all residents of the barangay.  They were rushed to the nearest hospital for treatment, police said. Reports said they were crossing the 100-meter long bridge when the metal wires holding the bridge up ruptured. Reports said that at around 6:00 p.m the victims crossing in a 100-meter long hanging bridge when the metal wires ropes rapture while they were in the middle and fell onto to the water. (Danny Estacio)