Bonita Ermac is a dedicated reporter for Mindanao Gold Star Daily based in Iligan City. With an eye for community-focused journalism, Bonita covers a diverse range of topics, including local government, social issues, and regional events. Her reporting keeps readers informed on the most critical developments across Lanao del Norte.
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Around 120,000 devotees gathered at St. Michael Cathedral for the annual Pagpakanaug, lowering the image of Señor San Miguel to launch the Diyandi Festival 2026 novena. The religious rite unites Iligan's diverse communities in prayer, thanksgiving, and cultural celebration leading to the Sept. 29 patronal feast.
Government security officials and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) commanders convened at Camp Bilal to coordinate joint security protocols ahead of the Bangsamoro parliamentary elections. The effort aims to establish direct communication, de-escalate potential conflicts, and ensure a safe, credible voting environment for all citizens.
Grade 6 learners at Berwar Integrated School in Tangkal, Lanao del Norte, gained access to the eTuro Digital Learning System through DOST SOCCSKSARGEN’s Science for Peace program. The deployment includes 80 Chromebooks and interactive learning tools designed to bridge educational gaps in conflict-affected communities.
The Philippine Army's 2nd Mechanized Infantry “Magbalantay” Brigade celebrated its 16th activation anniversary on September 9 at Camp Sultan Badrodin in Iligan City. Officials highlighted the unit’s peace-building initiatives, new facility inaugurations, and ongoing joint security operations for the BARMM parliamentary election.
Mugna Fiesta Park officially opened on September 2 at its new venue in Ludo Ground, Bayug, Hinaplabon, as part of Iligan’s Diyandi Festival. Beyond entertainment, organizers highlighted the park's key role in generating income for local vendors, small businesses, transport operators, and workers throughout the month-long celebration.
Iligan City has allocated P20 million for the month-long Diyandi Festival 2026, celebrating the shared heritage of its Higaonon, Maranao, and Christian communities. Culminating on the September 29 feast day of St. Michael the Archangel, the festival features street dancing, sports tournaments, traditional rituals, and heightened security measures.
Joint Army and police forces intercepted around 200 MILF members at a Lanao del Norte checkpoint after reports indicated some were carrying firearms. Following a calm dialogue on election security rules ahead of the 2026 Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections, the group peacefully returned to Sultan Naga Dimaporo.
Two alleged members of the Dawlah Islamiya–Maute Group were killed during a joint military and police operation in Marawi City on August 29. Authorities recovered firearms and improvised explosive device components from the scene, while another key suspect managed to escape arrest.
A third-alarm fire damaged EEDMO Building C at the Iligan Central Public Market on August 23, affecting 167 stall owners and destroying capital, stocks, and equipment. As the Bureau of Fire Protection investigates the incident, displaced vendors are appealing for temporary vending locations and capital support.
Mayor Frederick W. Siao delivered the 2026 State of the Iligan City Address, detailing over ₱1 billion in local revenues alongside progress in education and jobs. While celebrating economic growth, Siao emphasized ongoing initiatives to fix Iligan’s water supply, expand hospital capacity, and tackle urban flooding.
A 35-year-old delivery rider in Zamboanga City is receiving public praise and company rewards after returning a lost wallet he found on the road. Kismar Tingkao Usman turned the item over to a local news station without opening it, proving that integrity shines through daily hard work.
The Iligan City Government has expanded its "Benteng Bigas Meron Na" program directly to local communities, offering rice at ₱20 per kilo across 12 barangay clusters.