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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.
Former Department of Agriculture (DA) chief Leonardo Montemayor has countered a cyber libel complaint filed by a state-run rice distributor, labeling the legal action as part of a "concerning pattern" to silence critics through lawsuits and alleging "undue pressure."
Tropical Cyclone Neneng has weakened into a low pressure area (LPA) and exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), according to PAGASA. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Saudel is expected to enter PAR over the weekend, potentially enhancing the southwest monsoon.
The Ombudsman's corruption probe against House Speaker Martin Romualdez has hit a snag as key witnesses recant their testimonies. The Ombudsman's office downplayed the impact but warned of legal action against those withdrawing statements, casting uncertainty on the investigation's future.
The Philippines is experiencing heavy rainfall due to the Southwest Monsoon, with Baguio City and Quezon City recording two months' worth of average rainfall in just 18 days. This has led to widespread floods and landslides, causing numerous casualties and affected individuals.
A recent Octa Research survey reveals that approximately 10.3 million Filipino families, or 39%, considered themselves poor in the second quarter of 2026, indicating a widening economic hardship across the nation.
Tropical Depression Neneng has weakened into a low pressure area (LPA) and exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). This has led to a weakening of the southwest monsoon. However, the possibility of redevelopment remains.
Following a fatal shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University, the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office has ordered all personnel to properly secure their firearms out of reach of children to prevent similar incidents and ensure safety.
A viral social media claim alleging the arrest of a 71-year-old corn vendor in Matag-ob, Leyte has been debunked by local police and the mayor. Authorities confirmed no such incident occurred, with the mayor suggesting the false report was politically motivated.
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) announced that Filipinos at risk for leptospirosis can avail of free preventive medicine (doxycycline) through its YAKAP program, with expanded hospitalization benefits.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has provided over P91 million in technology assistance to more than 1,200 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Mimaropa region. This initiative aims to boost productivity and strengthen local enterprises, fostering competitiveness and sustainable growth.
An executive from Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) stated that reports of the Grade 8 student involved in the recent school shooting having previously threatened to "shoot the school" remain unverified. The information was disclosed during a Senate hearing on women and children.
Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez will file a supplemental counter-affidavit with the Ombudsman, including sworn statements from 25 former drivers and security aides of ex-Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co, as part of his defense against corruption allegations.