National Artists: President Marcos declared Sept. 12, 2026 a Day of National Mourning for National Artist for Literature Resil Mojares, with flags at half-mast and a national salute to his work in promoting Cebuano and national identity. Arts & Culture Honors: A new batch of National Artists was named, including Nicanor Tiongson, Gregorio Brillantes, Imelda Cajipe-Endaya, Nunelucio Alvarado, Gabriel “Gabby” Formoso, Rafael “Nonoy” Froilan, Patis Tesoro, Armando “Bing” Lao, Teodoro Hilado, and Alfredo Buenaventura—some posthumously, with Cajipe-Endaya noted as the first woman in visual arts. Local Education & Access: PUP opened its Bulacan campus in Pandi, starting classes for 127 students in Tourism Management and Business Administration, with the town funding the building and operations. Mental Health: Sen. Mark Villar called for expanded mental health services after PSA and police data showed rising intentional self-harm deaths and a shortage of accredited psychiatrists. Sports & Youth Development: Filipinas women’s football will miss key player Angie Beard at the Asian Games due to injury, while coach Mark Torcaso said the tournament is also a stepping stone toward the 2027 World Cup. Civic Creativity: The One Club for Creativity announced the jury for a global “Get Out the Vote” brief aimed at boosting voter participation among young creatives. Faith & Community: Pope Leo XIV appointed Bishop-elect Crispin “Bai” Barrete Varquez as the eighth Bishop of Tagbilaran, described as a “homecoming” for the diocese.