Day: July 8, 2025

Manila: Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Tuesday urged the government to immediately crack down on human trafficking syndicates allegedly using Pakistan as a new transit point to smuggle Filipinos abroad. He emphasized the urgent need for coordinated action among law enforcement agencies to combat this issue effectively. According to Philippines News Agency, Gatchalian highlighted the rising number of trafficking victims and called for swift action from the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking to enhance border security and dismantle these criminal networks. He expressed concern over reports identifying Pakistan as a new route for human trafficking activities. The senator suggested that individuals previously

Marikina city: Two employees of a firearms manufacturer were killed in an explosion at a manufacturing plant in Marikina City on Monday afternoon, the police said. Marikina City Police Chief Col. Geoffrey Fernandez confirmed the fatalities, who were employees of Armscor Global Defense Inc. One victim, aged 34, succumbed to chest injuries while receiving medical treatment, and the second victim, aged 44, died later that evening after losing both hands in the blast. According to Philippines News Agency, Fernandez described the incident in a radio interview, expressing regret over the loss of lives. He mentioned that an item wrapped in

Manila: Malaca±ang on Monday said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has yet to receive a shortlist of nominees for the next Ombudsman but emphasized the Chief Executive’s criteria for the successor of retiring Ombudsman Samuel Martires. According to Philippines News Agency, in a Palace press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro stated that the President is looking for someone with integrity, courage, and fairness-qualities that should be exemplified not just by the next Ombudsman, but by all public servants. Castro highlighted that as of now, the President has not yet received a shortlist, but reiterated the importance of these

Manila: Malaca±ang on Tuesday expressed optimism that the ongoing negotiations between the Philippines and the United States on the paused 17-percent reciprocal tariff on Philippine exports would yield a positive outcome. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the Philippine government hopes the outcome of the talks would be ‘good’ for the country and its economy. According to Philippines News Agency, Castro remarked in a Palace press briefing that she believes the Philippines is in a favorable position regarding the trade deal negotiations. She emphasized the mutual agreement between the two nations, highlighting the cooperation aimed at fostering economic development

Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is seeking a ‘better’ policy to address issues concerning online gambling, Malaca±ang said on Tuesday. Speaking to reporters, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro highlighted the President’s understanding of the challenges faced by families dealing with addiction to online gambling games within their households. According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos has expressed sympathy for families who have members struggling with gambling addiction. Castro noted, “The President sympathizes with families who fall victim to this type of gambling because other members of their household have become addicted to gambling.” She further added, “The President is looking