Day: July 16, 2025

Quezon city: Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Wednesday assured the public that there would be no sacred cows in the ongoing investigation into the case of missing cockfighting aficionados, commonly known as “sabungeros.” He emphasized that regardless of rank or position, anyone found involved with the Alpha group-a group allegedly linked to the disappearances-would face charges if the investigation substantiates their involvement. According to Philippines News Agency, during a visit to the Philippine National Police (PNP) Command Center at Camp Crame, Remulla revealed that whistleblower Julie ‘Totoy’ Patidongan has already provided a list of names under scrutiny. He stated that

Manila: Senator Panfilo Lacson has introduced a bill proposing the integration of the Department of Health’s (DOH) Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) Program into the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act. The senator believes that this move will help address the issue of payment delays for medical services provided by DOH-licensed or accredited health facilities, which are often hampered by political interference. According to Philippines News Agency, Lacson emphasized that the integration aims to prevent political exploitation and manipulation of the MAIFIP Program. The senator seeks to address what he describes as a culture of mendicancy and

Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday expressed approval of the Supreme Court’s (SC) decision, which allows the commission to conduct special elections to fill vacant congressional seats without requiring Congress to declare a vacancy. “This strengthens the mandate of the Comelec that we can call special elections,” Comelec Chairperson George Garcia stated during an interview. According to Philippines News Agency, Garcia emphasized the need to gather more information regarding the high tribunal’s ruling on the case filed by Elroy John Hagedorn against the House of Representatives. Garcia mentioned the importance of understanding the full extent of the Commission’s

Manila: The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Wednesday alerted local government units (LGUs) and communities amid the expected heavy rains in the coming days due to Tropical Depression Crising and other weather systems that could enhance the southwest monsoon (habagat). The OCD advised the LGUs to activate response plans, preposition relief items, and keep the public informed on the latest weather-related development. Communities, especially in flood-prone and coastal areas, were advised to prepare go-bags, monitor official updates, and follow evacuation orders if necessary. According to Philippines News Agency, “May mga binabantayang weather system na maaaring magpalakas ng habagat, at

Taguig city: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has joined forces with the Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC) to enhance internet infrastructure in geographically-isolated and disadvantaged areas. This strategic partnership aims to bridge the digital divide and promote national development through significant investments in digital infrastructure and services. According to Philippines News Agency, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between the DICT and MIC, emphasizing their shared commitment to addressing the country’s digital infrastructure and capability gaps. The collaboration is set to attract both local and foreign investments, boosting investor confidence in underserved areas. The MOU outlines MIC’s