Day: June 18, 2025

Manila: Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada on Wednesday expressed support for newly-appointed Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III’s reform agenda, emphasizing the need for immediate improvements in the police force’s responsiveness and professionalism. According to Philippines News Agency, Estrada, who chairs the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, praised Torre’s initial decisions, which demonstrate an understanding of the urgent changes required within the PNP. These include relieving officials who did not meet the five-minute police response time standard. Estrada noted that leadership is about guiding the institution in the right direction and making difficult decisions.

Manila: The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Wednesday that former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque is now reportedly seeking refuge in Germany following the denial of his asylum bid by the Netherlands. According to Philippines News Agency, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla stated in an interview that it is now up to Germany to decide on Roque’s asylum request. Remulla mentioned that the Philippine government would monitor the situation closely before considering filing an extradition case against Roque. Remulla explained that the possibility of extradition exists, but it may not be necessary as Roque’s passport is on the verge of

Manila: 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers has reiterated his appeal for the urgent establishment of a governmental watchdog focused on the usage and development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the Philippines. This call to action comes in response to the growing misuse and spread of AI-generated deepfakes, misinformation, and other false narratives online, which Barbers claims pose a significant threat to society and humanity. According to Philippines News Agency, Barbers’ call aligns with recent events involving Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who faced criticism from netizens after sharing an AI-generated video on social media. The video featured an ‘interview’

Manila: The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) announced that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has approved the establishment and expansion of four ecozones during the first half of 2025. These include two expansions of a manufacturing zone in Batangas and two new Information Technology (IT) Parks in Tagbilaran City and Bacolod City. According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos issued Proclamation 910 on May 21, designating 23.49 hectares of land in Barangays Bagong Pook and Luta Sur, Malvar, Batangas to be included in the existing Lima Technology Center (LTC). This development involves an investment of more than PHP980 million and

Manila: Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Wednesday said the newly launched National Forensics Institute (NFI) is a major step in transforming the country’s justice system. Speaking at the launch and groundbreaking ceremony of the NFI project at the University of the Philippines in Manila, Remulla underscored the NFI’s role in strengthening criminal investigations. According to Philippines News Agency, the NFI was initiated through Administrative Order (AO) 29 issued by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. It is the first of its kind in the country that would provide accurate and science-based forensic results crucial