Nation - Arkipelago News

PBBM calls for the courtesy resignation of all Cabinet secretaries

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called for the courtesy resignation of all Cabinet secretaries, stating, "It's time to realign government with the people's expectations." The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said in its news release that the request aims to give the president room to evaluate the performance of each department and determine who will continue serving in line with his administration’s recalibrated priorities. The directive was issued following the results of the May 12 midterm elections. "This is not business as usual. The people have spoken, and they expect results — not politics, not excuses. We hear them, and we will act," Marcos declared. "This is not about personalities—it’s about performance, alignment, and urgency. Those who have delivered and continue to deliver will be recognized. But we cannot afford to be complacent. The time for comfort zones is over," he further emphasized, according to the PCO. The agency noted that "this step marks a clear transition from the early phase of governance to a more focused and performance-driven approach. The President emphasized that while many [officials] have served with dedication and professionalism, the evolving needs of the country require a renewed alignment, faster execution, and a results-first mindset." Despite the transition, government services will remain uninterrupted, with the President assuring that stability, continuity, and meritocracy will guide the formation of his leadership team, the PCO confirmed. 28 Cabinet Secretaries Comply with Resignation Request As of 1:00 p.m. today, 28 cabinet members have stated their immediate compliance with the President’s directive. They include: Secretary Vince Dizon, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Sec. Rex Gatchalian, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Sec. Jonvic Remulla, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Sec. Cristina Frasco, Department of Tourism (DOT) Sec. Amenah Pangandaman, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Sec. Ralph Recto, Department of Finance (DOF) Sec. Hans Leo Cacdac, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Sec. Henry Aguda, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Sec. Jesus Crispin Remulla, Department of Justice (DOJ) Sec. Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., Department of Agriculture (DA) Sec. Bienvenido Laguesma, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Sec. Arsenio Balisacan, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Sec. Conrado Estrella III, Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Sec. Raphael Lotilla, Department of Energy (DOE) Sec. Sonny Angara, Department of Education (DepEd) Sec. Yulo Loyzaga, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Sec. Gilbert Teodoro, Department of National Defense (DND) Sec. Renato Solidum, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Sec. Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Sec. Enrique Manalo, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra, Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) Sec. Jay Ruiz, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Director General Jose Benitez, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin Sec. Frederick Go, Presidential Adviser for Investments and Economic Affairs National Security Adviser Eduardo Año Sec. Dante Ang, Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) Chairman Romando Artes, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Meanwhile, in response to Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation Larry Gadon’s comment that he is not covered by the courtesy resignation order, the PCO clarified that the directive includes presidential advisers and assistants. 📷 PCO 1 day ago

Risa Hontiveros open to 2028 presidential bid

MANILA — Senator Risa Hontiveros has indicated that she is open to the possibility of serving as the opposition's standard-bearer in the 2028 presidential elections. She made the statement during the Kapihan sa Senado forum when asked about her potential candidacy. "I'm not saying no. I'm open to all possibilities. At yun yung hinihingi ko din sa lahat na mga kasama sa oposisyon or independent bloc na maging bukas kami sa lahat ng possibilities at sa isa't isa, alang-alang sa oposisyon at alang-alang sa ating mga kababayan,” Hontiveros explained. The opposition senator emphasized that there will be a progressive or reformist candidate in the 2028 presidential elections, providing a clear alternative to contenders backed by the Duterte or Marcos factions. She stressed the importance of offering voters a distinct choice that upholds democratic values and addresses past governance issues. Hontiveros noted that definitive answers regarding her potential candidacy in the 2028 presidential elections will "naturally come somewhere down the road." She also emphasized that her priority is to unify her allies and streamline the selection process to build the strongest possible opposition slate for 2028. "I think the most important of all at present is to be united in these nine months,” she said. 📷 Sen. Risa Hontiveros FB 2 days ago

Two Chinese nationals arrested for alleged data theft using cell site simulator in Bulacan

BULACAN -- Two Chinese nationals were arrested by police in Bulacan after being caught parked near a cell tower, allegedly using high-tech equipment to siphon off data from nearby phones and devices for scamming operations, police said Tuesday. The suspects, Fengxiang Zhao and Shijun Teng, were apprehended inside a parked vehicle near a cell site in Baliwag by operatives from the Philippine National Police – Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG). Inside the vehicle, authorities found an electronic device that appeared innocuous but was actually capable of intercepting and storing information from mobile phones, computers, and other gadgets in the area. “Ito po ay isang electronic equipment na capable po siya mag-intercept, mag-store and mag-utilize ng information na na-obtain po from various communication devices such as cellphone, computers, etc… Para po siyang cell site simulator na imitate niya po yung cell tower,” said Police Lieutenant Colonel Milgrace Driz, CIDG Bulacan Provincial Officer. The device, which police say functions like a fake cell tower, was allegedly used to harvest private data, later exploited in online scams. The two suspects remained silent when questioned, offering only a weak defense that they were just “installers.” “Itong isa po actually parang dito na naninirahan sa Pilipinas, at itong isa po ay isang fugitive po ng China. No comment sila, installer lang daw sila. From China, may nagpapadala sa kanila sa Pilipinas,” Driz added. “Pwede niyang magamit ito sa panloloko, pag scam… ‘Yung mga information po natin na makukuha sa isang cell tower po,” she explained, highlighting the danger such technology poses to ordinary citizens’ data. Authorities stated that charges have already been filed and are now under review by the Department of Justice. “Nafile-an na po natin sila ng kaso pending sa DOJ, Department of Justice… Mayroon na po silang hinain na preliminary investigation,” Driz confirmed. 📷 CIDG-Bulacan 2 days ago

Comelec suspends Duterte Youth proclamation amid ongoing legal dispute

MANILA -- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has suspended the proclamation of the Duterte Youth party-list as one of the winners in the May 12 midterm polls. This announcement was made by Atty. Emil Marañon III, counsel for Reeya Beatrice Magtalas, Abigail Aleli Tan, Aunell Ross Angcos, and Raainah Punzalan. These individuals had petitioned the Comelec on May 15 to delay the group's proclamation, emphasizing that their petition questioning Duterte Youth’s compliance with registration requirements remains unresolved. In a Facebook post, Marañon stated: “Just now, the COMELEC issued NBOC Resolution 14-25 granting our prayer to suspend the proclamation of Duterte Youth while the resolution of our case is pending. We thank everyone who joined us in this 5-year battle. Kapit lang tayo, malapit na ‘to!” He attached images of the National Board of Canvassers (NBOC) Resolution 14-25 to his post. The youth leaders initially filed a petition against the Duterte Youth party-list in 2019. They argued that it was “illegal and unconstitutional” for the Duterte Youth to be allowed registration without fulfilling the publication and hearing requirements, as stipulated in the 1987 Constitution and the Party-List System Act. Under the Kabataan Tayo ang Pag-asa electoral watchdog group, the same youth leaders revived the proceedings on March 25 by filing an urgent motion with the Comelec to resolve the 2019 petition. Marañon noted, “The case has been pending for more than five years,” and insisted that the Comelec should act on the five-year-old petition before allowing Duterte Youth to join the incoming 20th Congress. “It is not only prudent, but it is a legal necessity to suspend the proclamation of Duterte Youth until petitioners’ case is resolved,” he underscored. He pointed out that the votes for Duterte Youth are subject to further determination by the Comelec, emphasizing that votes for a non-candidate shall be considered stray votes under the Omnibus Election Code. He explained that if considered stray, the group’s votes will be excluded from the computation of seats for party-list groups, and other groups may be admitted into the list of winning party-list candidates. This is why Duterte Youth’s proclamation should be suspended until the petition against it is resolved, he insisted. “In other words, the conclusive settlement of the issue of the status of Duterte Youth is a prejudicial question that must first be resolved prior to its proclamation,” he said. The proclamation of party-list groups is set to be held on Monday afternoon, May 19. Kabataan, Tayo Ang Pag-asa stated, “It is necessary that Duterte Youth be suspended as their proclamation is a disservice to the nation amid unresolved motions and relentless attacks against the youth.” They earlier led the signing of a Unity Statement calling on the Comelec to disqualify the Duterte Youth in the elections. The group said, “The COMELEC shall decide NOW. Over 100 youth organizations join the call in disqualifying Duterte Youth. Moreso, to uphold clean, honest, fair, and peaceful elections, it must also resolve reported cases of fraud and violence.” “The Filipino people deserve genuine representation in government. The party-list law must be amended and not be bastardized by the likes of the Duterte Youth. There should be no space for any individual or organization that harms people and degrades their initiatives in a government that is meant to serve the masses,” it added. Signatories to the Unity Statement include the College Editors Guild of the Philippines, National Union of Students of the Philippines, Anakbayan, League of Filipino Students, Student Christian Movement of the Philippines, University of the Philippines Office of the Student Regent, and several others. Comelec Chairman George Garcia earlier announced that only 52 of the 54 party-list groups that won seats in the recent elections will be proclaimed. He said, “Dalawa po ang sinuspinde sa proklamasyon dahil po mayroon silang pending case sa Comelec. Again inuulit natin hindi po nangangahulugang hindi sila nanalo.” Garcia stressed that it’s better to resolve their pending cases first. 📷 Emil Marañon lll 4 days ago

Probe on former OWWA chief Arnell Ignacio’s P1.4-billion land deal to proceed, says new official

MANILA -- The investigation into the alleged anomalous P1.4-billion land acquisition deal entered into by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) under its former chief, Arnell Ignacio, will proceed accordingly, according to the agency's new head. During the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City, newly appointed OWWA Administrator Undersecretary Patricia Yvonne “PY” Caunan stated, “Allow me to say this, and as a lawyer I would also say this, there's an investigation… I will allow due process to take its course.” “As the new administrator of OWWA, we will perform the necessary audit, we will seek the required legal opinion from the Department of Justice, and we will engage with the Commission on Audit,” she added. Caunan mentioned that Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac has already made a statement on the matter and is expected to provide further details in the coming days. Cacdac earlier confirmed that Ignacio was removed from his post due to “loss of trust and confidence” amid the alleged anomalous land acquisition deal he entered into, which was not authorized by the OWWA Board. Under OWWA law, the power to purchase real property must first be approved by the board of trustees, which is headed by the DMW secretary. Caunan explained, “The vice chair is the OWWA administrator. So the regular process or what is expected is that purchases should go through the board of trustees.” She noted that the deal has been suspended. “The OFW Fund is sacred… we are very serious about this… We take this very seriously," the new OWWA chief emphasized. “Marami tayong iniimbestigahan doon and si Sec. Hans has been on top of it as board chairman. Medyo malungkot din na may ganito but to be honest we have to treat this seriously. Pondo ito ng taumbayan so we have to look into it," she said. She clarified that the migrant workers’ trust fund remains intact, referring to the OWWA Fund, which comprises contributions from member-OFWs, seafarers, and their employers. The funds used for the land deal may have been sourced from the agency’s budget, she indicated. The land purchase deal in question was intended for a halfway house or dormitory-type accommodation for overseas Filipino workers, to be located near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1. The agreement was entered into in September 2024. Caunan took her oath of office before Cacdac on Friday, May 16, 2025. Prior to this appointment, she served as DMW undersecretary for policy and international cooperation since August 2022. According to the DMW, she played a key role in forging 15 bilateral labor agreements with countries such as Canada, Austria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Finland, Denmark, Singapore, Croatia, Slovenia, and Kuwait — each one strengthening protection for OFWs around the world. “A seasoned lawyer with a strong track record in labor, civil, administrative, and criminal law, she has long championed the rights of migrant workers, offering legal guidance and support to those in need,” the DMW further described the new OWWA chief. Caunan stated, “Kakaupo ko lang po kahapon pero kino-commit ko po sa inyo, ang pag-aaralan natin, paano palawakin ang scholarship, hindi lang para sa anak ng OFWs kundi sa mismong OFWs. Dalawa po iyan: Edukasyon at kalusugan… diyan po tayo magfo-focus pero hindi po natin kakalimutan ang welfare o 'yung repatriation, mga tulong.” She said they would further improve OWWA’s systems and services to make it easier and faster for OFWs to avail of the existing programs of the agency. Ignacio, on the other hand, first entered government service in 2016 when he was appointed by then President Rodrigo Duterte as Assistant Vice President for Community Relation and Services Department of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). He later transferred to the OWWA. 📷 Saturday News Forum 4 days ago

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Winners of the May 2025 senate race proclaimed in Manila

MANILA — The Commission on Elections (COMELEC), sitting as the National Board of Canvassers, officially proclaimed the 12 winning senatorial candidates in the May 2025 midterm elections today during a ceremony held at the Manila Hotel. Among the newly proclaimed senators were returning lawmakers Bam Aquino and Tito Sotto. Aquino secured the second-highest number of votes with over 20 million ballots cast in his favor, while Sotto, a former Senate President and veteran lawmaker, also secured a strong mandate. Aquino expressed deep gratitude to Filipino youth voters for their support and vowed to prioritize reforms in education, employment, and public welfare during his new term. “To the Filipino youth, we cannot thank you enough. Thank you so much. The mandate you gave me, I will not waste,” Aquino said in his acceptance speech. Senator Tito Sotto, likewise, thanked the electorate for their trust and emphasized his commitment to continue championing legislation focused on public health, family welfare, and cultural preservation. COMELEC Chairperson George Garcia led the formal proclamation, congratulating the new senators and calling for unity and responsible leadership as they prepare to assume office. The list of proclaimed senators includes a diverse mix of returning legislators, first-time senators, and prominent public figures from various political parties and advocacy backgrounds: Christopher “Bong” Go Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa Erwin Tulfo Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan Rodante Marcoleta Panfilo "Ping" Lacson Vicente “Tito” Sotto Pia Cayetano Camille Villar Lito Lapid Imee Marcos The proclaimed senators are expected to take their oaths of office before June 30, ahead of the opening of the 20th Congress in July. In brief speeches, several winners pledged to focus on key national concerns such as the economy, education, corruption, health care, labor rights, and national sovereignty. COMELEC highlighted the peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections and timely canvassing, calling it a testament to the maturity of the Philippines’ democratic process. The new senators will serve until 2031. Read more >> 6 days ago

Warrant issued for ex-Duterte spokesman Harry Roque over POGO human trafficking case

MANILA -- A court has issued arrest warrants for former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and 10 others in connection with an alleged human trafficking operation linked to a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Pampanga. The Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 118 in Angeles City, Pampanga released the order on May 8, signed by Presiding Judge Rene Reyes. The court found "probable cause" to proceed with the trial for alleged violations of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003—offenses considered non-bailable. "After careful evaluation of the 11 separate informations, the resolution, and the supporting documents attached to each and every case record, this Court finds probable cause to hold all the aforenamed accused for trial for the offenses for which they are respectively charged,” said the order. Accused Include Ex-Officials, POGO Executives Alongside Roque, the court named Cassandra Ong, representative of Lucky South 99—the POGO operator based in Porac, Pampanga. Also included is Duanren Wu, alleged financier of the operation and reportedly known as its “godfather” and “big boss.” Wu has reportedly been in hiding since congressional inquiries into illegal offshore gaming operations began. Authorities allege that Lucky South 99 operated a large scam hub where trafficked workers were forced to carry out fraudulent online activities. Also among the accused are local employees, Filipino incorporators, and former government official Dennis Cunanan. Cunanan is separately facing charges related to another POGO site in Bamban, Tarlac, which is currently under investigation in a case involving former Bamban Mayor Alice Guo. Roque’s Role and Denials The Department of Justice (DOJ) claims that Roque played a role beyond acting as legal counsel to Whirlwind Corporation, which leased property to Lucky South 99. Prosecutors allege he also facilitated license renewal efforts with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), casting doubt on the extent of his involvement in POGO operations. Roque has admitted to representing Whirlwind in an unrelated legal matter and to assisting Ong with meetings, but he maintains these actions do not amount to human trafficking. He denies ever serving as legal counsel to Lucky South 99 itself. Flight from the Philippines and Asylum Plea Roque left the Philippines in September 2024 after being cited for contempt for failing to attend House hearings on the POGO issue. In December, he submitted a counter-affidavit from the United Arab Emirates and has since applied for asylum in the Netherlands, citing political persecution. The former spokesperson said he would “seek all available legal remedies to secure my life and liberty which are currently under threat.” “The issuance of a warrant of arrest forms part of the unjust prosecution, which I will include in my application for asylum in the Netherlands as a victim of political persecution owing to my loyalty to the Dutertes,” Roque said in a statement. “I reiterate: This is not flight as evidence of guilt but the exercise of a human right to asylum,” Roque stressed. DOJ Seeks Interpol Red Notice as Rights Groups React The DOJ has announced plans to oppose Roque’s asylum bid and to coordinate with Interpol to issue a red notice. “Once the warrant is out, we will initiate the process,” DOJ Undersecretary Nicholas Felix Ty confirmed. The Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (PAHRA) welcomed the court’s move. “From being a human rights lawyer to an alleged human rights violator, what a disgusting downgrade, Atty. Roque… Yung tapang mong kumuda habang nagtatago ka sa ibang bansa, gamitin mo para humarap sa korte at magpaliwanag sa mga alegasyon laban sa'yo,” said PAHRA Secretary-General Edgar Cabalitan. Roque, once a vocal human rights advocate and supporter of the Philippines’ membership in the International Criminal Court (ICC), later became a staunch defender of then-President Rodrigo Duterte. His dramatic shift from rights lawyer to Duterte spokesperson has long drawn criticism from civil society groups. As of writing, a total of 49 individuals face arrest in connection with the POGO operations in Pampanga. 📷 Harry Roque FB Read more >> 1 week ago

Senate Shock: Survey frontrunners falter in 2025 midterm elections

MANILA – The May 12, 2025, midterm elections delivered unexpected results, as several high-profile senatorial candidates who consistently led pre-election surveys failed to secure seats in the Senate. Despite extensive campaigns across traditional and social media platforms, and significant expenditures on advertisements, notable figures such as Ben Tulfo, Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., Abby Binay, Benhur Abalos, Jimmy Bondoc, Manny Pacquiao, Phillip Salvador, Willie Revillame, Francis Tolentino, and Apollo Quiboloy did not make it to the so-called "Magic 12." As of the latest count, with 97.2% of election returns transmitted, the standings are as follows: ● Ben Tulfo: 13th place with 11,886,843 votes● Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr.: 14th place with 11,790,005 votes● Abby Binay: 15th place with 11,569,979 votes● Benhur Abalos: 16th place with 11,354,377 votes● Jimmy Bondoc: 17th place with 10,357,616 votes● Manny Pacquiao: 18th place with 10,208,474 votes● Phillip Salvador: 19th place with 9,984,203 votes● Willie Revillame: 22nd place with 8,414,769 votes● Francis Tolentino: 25th place with 7,564,087 votes Revilla and Tolentino are seeking reelection. These results are particularly surprising given that many of these candidates were considered "winnables" in various surveys conducted months and even weeks before the elections. In contrast, candidates like Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan, who placed second and fifth respectively, have secured positions within the top 12, indicating a shift in voter preferences. The unexpected outcomes suggest that voters may be seeking change, favoring candidates who offer fresh perspectives over established names. Analysts believe this could mark a significant shift in the Philippine political landscape, emphasizing the electorate's desire for new leadership. As the final votes are tallied, the political community watches closely to understand the implications of this electoral shift and what it means for future elections in the country. 📷 Facebook pages of Ben Tulfo, Bong Revilla, Manny Pacquiao, Philip Salvador, Willie Revillame, and Benhur Abalos Read more >> 1 week ago

De Lima, Diokno to join House prosecution panel in impeachment trial of Sara Duterte

MANILA -- Two prominent figures in Philippine law and politics—former senator Leila de Lima and human rights lawyer Atty. Chel Diokno—have been named as members of the House of Representatives’ prosecution panel in the impending impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. De Lima, now the first nominee of the Mamamayang Liberal (ML) party-list, confirmed her appointment on Tuesday, saying she received a phone call from House Speaker Martin Romualdez just hours prior. “Got a call from the Speaker just an hour ago. I answered yes to the suggestion/offer to be part of the prosecution panel,” De Lima said in a message to reporters. “I’ve always believed that public office comes with the duty to uphold accountability, no matter the personalities involved. This is part of my continuing work for justice and reform. I’m here to serve the truth—nothing more, nothing less.” Meanwhile, Akbayan Party-list announced that their incoming representative, Atty. Chel Diokno, has also accepted an invitation to join the panel. “Akbayan Party has been invited by the House of Representatives to be part of the House prosecution team in the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, once the Senate convenes as an impeachment court,” the group said in a statement. “As the principal endorser of the first impeachment complaint and after thorough party deliberations, we extend our full support to this historic process of accountability," the statement added. "Buong tapang na tinatanggap ng Akbayan ang bagong kabanata ng laban para sa katarungan at pananagutan,” the statement stressed, underscoring its commitment to justice and democratic values. Their involvement in the trial against Vice President Duterte signals a high-profile showdown in the Senate once it convenes as an impeachment court. Duterte, daughter of former president Rodrigo Duterte, has faced growing scrutiny over alleged misuse of confidential funds and issues of conduct unbecoming of her office. De Lima, Diokno to Add Credibility to the Proceedings – Romualdez In a statement, House Speaker Martin Romualdez said the inclusion of De Lima and Diokno in the prosecution panel against Sara Duterte would add credibility to the process. "Former Senator De Lima and Atty. Diokno are two of the most respected legal minds in the country. Their potential inclusion in the prosecution panel would add credibility, balance, and depth to this constitutionally mandated process," Romualdez said. "They are not just veteran lawyers—they are public servants with a lifelong record of upholding the rule of law and protecting democratic institutions. Their involvement would be a valuable contribution to ensuring that the proceedings are fair, principled, and rooted in the public interest," he added. This will not be the first impeachment trial for either De Lima or Diokno—though both enter the process in new capacities. Diokno, a longtime advocate for the rule of law and legal reform, served as one of the private prosecutors in the 2000–2001 impeachment trial of then-President Joseph Estrada. He was among those who famously walked out of the courtroom after the Senate voted against opening a controversial envelope, a moment that contributed to the eruption of the second EDSA People Power uprising. De Lima, on the other hand, took part in the 2012 impeachment of the late Chief Justice Renato Corona. Then serving as Justice Secretary under President Benigno Aquino III, she testified for the prosecution, arguing that the Supreme Court under Corona had shown partiality when it issued a temporary restraining order against the DOJ’s travel ban on former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and her husband, Jose Miguel Arroyo. 📷Leila de Lima and Chel Diokno FB Read more >> 1 week ago

Vote-buying rap vs. Vico Sotto backfires after Comelec exemption surfaces

MANILA — What was meant to be a bombshell election complaint against Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto has instead backfired on his accusers. Just days before the Philippine midterm elections, lawyer Ferdinand “Ferdie” Topacio and his client, former city hall employee Vic Barral, filed a vote-buying complaint before the Commission on Elections (Comelec), accusing the popular mayor of distributing scholarship allowances on May 7 — allegedly in violation of election laws. Under Section 68 of the Omnibus Election Code, the distribution of government aid is prohibited within ten days of the election — unless an exemption is granted by the Comelec. But here's the kicker: Comelec had already granted Sotto that exemption weeks before the alleged violation. Apparently, no one told Topacio. Pressed by reporters after Sotto’s camp released official documents showing that the scholarship program had been duly exempted, a visibly stunned Topacio admitted he had no knowledge of the Comelec exemption. The moment quickly turned what was supposed to be a legal grenade into a political dud, leaving Topacio and Barral appearing embarrassingly unprepared. Sotto, meanwhile, remained composed and silent — letting the documents speak for themselves. A frontrunner for reelection, the young reformist mayor is widely known for transparency and clean governance. Supporters praised how he handled the controversy, with many saying he defused the complaint effortlessly. Online, netizens dismissed the complaint as a failed attempt to smear Sotto’s candidacy. “Ay! Ano ba ‘yan? Zero research. Lawyer Ferdie Topacio accepted this case without knowing all the facts?” said Marites V. “Suspicious move. May moneyed forces at work, who want to regain control of Pasig City Hall because they lost their easy sources of wealth.” “Topacio proving again he is incompetent,” commented Rommel L. Jamie A. added: “’Di man lang prepared sa maninira, kulang sa homework ang mga kampon ng kadiliman.” The Comelec has yet to officially rule on the complaint, but with the exemption clearly on record, insiders say the case is likely to be dismissed. As for Topacio and Barral? They may have just learned a valuable lesson in Philippine politics: always check the paperwork before calling a press con. 📷 Vico Sotto FB Read more >> 1 week ago

HABEMUS PAPAM: U.S. Cardinal Robert Prevost elected pope, takes the name Leo XIV

In a historic first, the Catholic Church has elected a pope from the United States. Cardinal Robert Prevost, a Chicago-born missionary and senior Vatican official, was named the 267th pontiff on Thursday evening, May 8, 2025 (Philippine time), taking the papal name Pope Leo XIV. The 69-year-old appeared on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica to the cheers of thousands gathered in the square, wearing the traditional red mozzetta — a cape Pope Francis had declined upon his own election in 2013. In his first words as pope, he simply said, “Peace be with you,” before offering a message rooted in peace, dialogue, and missionary evangelisation. He spoke in Italian and Spanish, but not in English. Born in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV spent much of his ecclesial life in Peru as a missionary and bishop before leading the global Order of Saint Augustine. He later served in Rome as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a powerful Vatican department responsible for selecting bishops around the world — a position that placed him at the heart of Church leadership. His election, following the conclave convened after Pope Francis’s passing, is considered a historic turning point for the global Church, long led by pontiffs from Europe and Latin America. When Pope Leo XIV Visited Cebu in 2004 Filipinos were quick to recall their personal connections with the new pope. The Santo Niño de Cebu Parish in Barangay Mohon, Talisay City, shared throwback photos of then-Bishop Prevost during his 2004 visit to the parish. At the time serving as Prior General of the Augustinian Order, Prevost led the dedication of a new residence for friars and ministered to the local faithful. “Pope Leo XIV solemnly led the Augustinian friars and the faithful in dedicating the new residence, which was entrusted to the pastoral care of those called to proclaim the Gospel in the city,” the parish wrote in a statement. Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration Mass is expected in the coming days, as Catholics across the world look toward the future of a Church now led by its first American pope. 📷 Augustinian Province of Mother of Good Counsel Read more >> 2 weeks ago

Kiko Pangilinan confident last-minute voters will help him return to Senate

2 weeks ago

Sen. Joel Villanueva among top performers in nationwide lawmaker satisfaction poll

MANILA — Senator Joel Villanueva emerged as one of the top-performing lawmakers, securing a strong +49.1% rating in a new nationwide poll measuring public satisfaction with senators in the 19th Congress. That places him ahead of more senior and high-profile colleagues, reflecting what analysts say is growing support for his steady work on employment programs and education reform. Villanueva’s rise suggests that the public is taking note of his long-running efforts to align legislation with job creation and skills development — a platform he’s quietly but persistently championed since his first term Senators Bong Go and Grace Poe garnered net satisfaction scores of +60.8% and +58.7%, securing first and second place, respectively. Go, President Duterte’s former aide, drew his strongest numbers from Visayas and Mindanao, where his Malasakit Centers and disaster-resilience initiatives remain popular. Poe, meanwhile, dominated urban Luzon thanks to her consistent advocacy for transport modernization and consumer protection. Senators Loren Legarda and Sherwin Gatchalian tied at fourth with +47.2%, while Senate President Chiz Escudero is in eighth place with +30.9%, affected by lower support from Visayas and Mindanao. Among reelectionists, only Pia Cayetano (+34.1%) and Francis Tolentino (+30.8%) cracked the top ten. In contrast, once-flashy names like Ronald Dela Rosa, Bong Revilla, and Imee Marcos all sank to the bottom half, their media exposure doing little to boost public confidence. But the poll wasn’t just about winners. Sen. Cynthia Villar earned the dubious distinction of being the most disliked senator in the country, with nearly 1 in 3 Filipinos expressing dissatisfaction — particularly in Northern and Central Luzon. Her son, Sen. Mark Villar, and actor-turned-lawmaker Robin Padilla also fared poorly, as respondents cited underperformance and controversial remarks. The mobile-based survey was conducted May 2–3 by Comelec-accredited research firm Tangere, with 1,800 respondents and a margin of error of ±2.2%. Regional representation included 12% from NCR, 23% from Northern Luzon, 22% from Southern Luzon, 20% from Visayas, and 23% from Mindanao. 📷 Joel Villanueva FB Read more >> 2 weeks ago

2 Dead, 3 injured as SUV rams into NAIA Terminal 1 departure area

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P20 per kilo rice program launches amid election concerns

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