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The Philippine presidential palace has ordered law enforcement agencies to pursue charges against the masterminds behind alleged fabricated testimonies of witnesses in the government's probe into a flood control scandal, urging swift investigation and prosecution.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced the suspension of the number coding scheme on Friday, August 21, in observance of Ninoy Aquino Day, a special nonworking holiday. This suspension allows vehicles normally restricted by the scheme to travel freely on this day.
Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez's lawyer is seeking the dismissal of graft charges against him, citing inconsistencies in witness testimonies and a lack of forensic or documentary evidence.
Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado has ordered the strengthening of security measures in all schools across the province following a shooting incident at the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Junior High School campus in Zamboanga City. Increased police visibility and patrols have been mandated.
The province of Bulacan in the Philippines has been placed under a state of calamity due to massive flooding caused by weeks of heavy rainfall. This declaration aims to expedite disaster response and recovery efforts.
Orly Guteza, former security aide of ex-lawmaker Zaldy Co, recanted his affidavit claiming he delivered cash to former Speaker Martin Romualdez. He admitted his false testimony was driven by fear and "sweet promises," expressing a desire for a quiet life.
Orly Guteza, a former aide to congressman Zaldy Co, has retracted his corruption allegations against House Speaker Martin Romualdez. This retraction casts doubt on the Ombudsman's case against Romualdez, highlighting internal political maneuvering.
A key witness has recanted his testimony accusing a former House Speaker of receiving bribes, and has instead accused his former benefactors of coercing him. The situation has sent ripples through Philippine politics. This report details the background and circumstances surrounding Orly Guteza.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has enough evidence in the alleged plot to frame Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, with Directorate Melvin Matibag stating the investigation is nearing its conclusion and resolutions could be out next week.
Self-rated poverty and hunger among Filipino families surged in July, with 10.3 million families identifying as poor and hunger levels rising, indicating widespread economic pressures, particularly outside Metro Manila, according to an OCTA Research survey.
The Philippine Ombudsman stated that 28 witnesses remain cooperative in its investigation into alleged bribery involving former Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, despite recent witness recantations. The Ombudsman's office described the recantations as a "pressure tactic" and asserted that the probe would not be derailed.
The Philippine Senate plans to establish an ad hoc committee to spearhead economic recovery measures and support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Senate President Sherwin T. Gatchalian stated the committee will focus on economic revitalization through legislative actions and budget allocations.
The Philippine government defended its proposed P180 million allocation per region for evacuation centers in the 2027 National Expenditure Program, asserting that the projects have an implementation framework despite unspecified locations. Sites will be selected through a legal prioritization process based on disaster risks and community needs.
Makati City is advancing the detailed evaluation of a private proposal for its P17.76 billion electric Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. This initiative aims to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce environmental impact within the city.
Following witness testimony that P125 million in confidential funds was transferred under her orders, House prosecutors are urging Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio to attend her impeachment trial to directly address the allegations.
Beverly Lorraine C. Ho, the newly appointed acting president and CEO of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth), has pledged to prioritize efficient benefit disbursement and enhance universal healthcare. Key initiatives include making benefits easier to access, expanding outreach to schools and workplaces, and increasing zero-balance billing at private hospitals.
Manila Rep. Joel R. Chua has called for an overhaul of the 31-year-old charter of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). He highlighted the unclear division of powers and responsibilities among the MMDA, local government units, and national agencies in addressing Metro Manila's traffic, flooding, and waste management issues, advocating for a unified approach and clear accountability.
The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) in the Philippines has intensified directives for its personnel to properly manage and secure government-issued and privately owned firearms, following tragic shooting incidents where minors accessed firearms belonging to adult relatives. Specific measures include safe storage at home, separate storage of ammunition, and securing firearms in locked locations.
The Philippines' Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is seeking jurisdiction over social media platforms for its anti-cybercrime division to effectively regulate violent content, following a livestreamed shooting incident in Zamboanga. The agency currently relies on platform community guidelines, facing limitations in its response.
Philippine Senator Erwin T. Tulfo expressed concern over the low conviction rate for electricity theft, with only 21 individuals found guilty out of 469 cases since 2022. This 4.48% conviction rate suggests potential issues with the implementation of the Anti-Pilferage Act.
A Philippine lawmaker has urged the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to secure the P55-billion funding needed for a proposed increase in the Personnel Economic Relief Allowance (PERA) for civilian government employees, aiming for implementation in 2027. The call highlights the long-standing stagnation of PERA.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has filed a P2.23-billion tax evasion case against Hongsheng Gaming Technology, Inc., a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) based in Bamban, Tarlac, for alleged underdeclaration of income and VAT, and failure to remit taxes from 2021 to 2023.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) indicated that the value-added tax (VAT) on system loss (SL) charges could potentially be removed through administrative measures, without the need for legislation, contingent on Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) actions.
Philippine government tax incentives are projected to result in P559.73 billion in foregone revenue in 2025, exceeding one-third of the year's fiscal deficit. Experts are urging a review of incentives that fail to yield proportional investment or employment benefits.
The Philippine government is urging US companies to expand operations, develop talent, and contribute to higher-value segments of the supply chain, not just provide capital. It is particularly seeking investment in the Luzon Economic Corridor and the electronics/semiconductor sectors.
The Joint Foreign Chambers (JFC) in the Philippines are calling for greater clarity and consistency in tax rules governing cross-border services. A recently issued tax memorandum circular (RMC No. 5-2024) aims to level the playing field but raises concerns for businesses operating internationally.
The Philippines has signed its first-ever air service agreement with Iceland, enabling the launch of seven weekly flights between Manila and Reykjavík. This agreement marks a significant step in expanding air connectivity and strengthening bilateral relations.
The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) anticipates an economic recovery in 2027, citing hopes for a resolution to the Middle East crisis and a boost from pre-election spending. Concerns remain over inflation and sluggish consumption.
The Philippines and the UK are exploring opportunities to expand trade and investment, focusing on high-value industries like semiconductors and integrated circuit (IC) design. Both nations are also considering cooperation in digital trade and infrastructure, with the UK supporting the Philippines' bid to join the CPTPP.
International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutors announced they possess 2,279 'incriminating' evidence items in the case against former president Rodrigo Duterte. These form part of evidence disclosed ahead of his November 2026 trial, focusing on charges of crimes against humanity during the war on drugs.
The House prosecution team stated it will present only 'absolutely necessary' evidence in the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte to expedite the proceedings. They also pointed to delays caused by the defense team's actions.
The Philippines and Iceland have signed their first bilateral air services agreement, paving the way for up to seven weekly flights (equivalent to one flight per day) for both passenger and cargo services. While no specific flight plans have been announced yet, the deal forms a foundation for exploring new air routes.
Zamboanga Police Chief PCol. Fidel Fortaleza Jr. highlighted deficiencies in vehicle checks at Ateneo de Zamboanga University. The assessment follows a recent shooting incident on campus, underscoring the need for enhanced security protocols.
A fake quote attributed to Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro, claiming recent floods were caused by intentionally blocked drainage systems to blame the Marcos administration, has spread online. Castro denied making the statement, with the false claim originating from a satire page and its disclaimer cropped out.
The city government of General Santos (GenSan) in the Philippines has intensified inspections of pickleball courts due to the sport's surging popularity, checking for valid business permits and licenses. Authorities have launched 'Operation Pickleball Hunt' to crack down on unlicensed operations.
The Office of the Ombudsman downplayed the recantation of a witness against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, stating that 28 other witnesses can provide direct and material information regarding the alleged flood control kickback scheme.