Thursday, February 20, 2025

Coronavirus Lockdown: Medicare Fraud, Romance Scams, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government.

A Filipino American doctor in New York has been convicted of $24 million in Medicare fraud for ordering COVID-19 tests for patients he was not treating. 

https://usa.inquirer.net/166269/fil-am-doctor-convicted-of-24-million-medicare-fraud

Alexander Baldonado, a Filipino American physician from Queens, New York, has been found guilty of submitting over $24 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare for unnecessary laboratory tests and orthotic braces.

Court documents show Baldonado, 69, received tens of thousands of dollars in kickbacks and bribes in exchange for ordering laboratory tests, including expensive cancer genetic tests that were billed to Medicare.

Baldonado authorized hundreds of cancer genetic tests for Medicare beneficiaries who attended COVID-19 testing events at assisted living facilities, adult day care centers and a retirement community in 2020.

“Baldonado was not treating any of the patients who attended the testing events and, in many cases, did not speak to or examine the patients prior to ordering cancer genetic tests and other laboratory tests for them,” stated a press release from the US Department of Justice, dated Feb. 11.

Baldonado also billed Medicare for office visits but many of the patients testified that they had never met the Fil-Am physician. In some cases, the patients never received the results of the tests billed to Medicare.

An undercover video presented as evidence showed Baldonado receiving a large sum of cash in exchange for signed prescriptions for orthotic braces.

“The medically unnecessary laboratory tests and orthotic braces that Baldonado ordered in exchange for illegal kickbacks and bribes caused Medicare to be billed more than $24 million,” the press release said.

“Medicare paid more than $2.1 million to the laboratories and the durable medical equipment supply company involved in the schemes.”

Baldonado was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud; six counts of health care fraud; one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay, offer, receive and solicit health care kickbacks; one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to receive and solicit health care kickbacks; and one count of solicitation of health care kickbacks.

Baldonado is scheduled to be sentenced on June 26.

It's a quick way to get rich and lose your freedom. 

Romance scams are big business in the Philippines and its making local banks look bad. 

https://www.bworldonline.com/banking-finance/2025/02/14/653198/banks-face-reputational-risks-from-romance-scams/

PHILIPPINE BANKS may be exposed to increased reputational risks as the number of Filipino individuals and entities linked to romance scams rose in 2024, Moody’s said.

Moody’s on Thursday said it recorded 1,193 new entities and people with potential ties to romance scams in 2024, up by 14% year on year and the highest in six years.

“In 2024, the US accounted for over a third (38%) of new romance scam profiles among top 10 countries, followed by Nigeria (14%), India (12%), the UK (11%), Malaysia (5%), China (5%), the Philippines (4%), Brazil (4%), Canada (4%) and Australia (3%),” it said in a note on Thursday..

In the Philippines, the number of Filipino entities and individuals with potential links to romance scams increased to 45 in 2024 from 10 in 2023, Moody’s said.

“Criminals often seek to launder the money generated from romance scams like sextortion via the traditional financial system. Banks can face significant reputational risks and fines,” the credit rater said.

“Financial grooming scams increased greatly during the COVID-19 pandemic, as isolation led to a greater need for emotional connection — and increased vulnerability. Sextortion is a type of romance scam targeting teenagers, particularly boys. Perpetrators use fake profiles to solicit explicit images or videos from victims, then extort money by threatening to expose the images to friends, family or on social media,” it added.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) requires Philippine financial institutions to immediately report reputational risk events that could impact their financial standing and stakeholder confidence.

The BSP’s guidelines define reputational risk as those that could affect earnings, capital and liquidity due to negative perception of the financial institution and adversely impact their business relationships and hinder new venture establishments or continuous access for funding

These risks could be caused by customers, shareholders, investors, employees, market analysts, the media, and other stakeholders, including regulators and government agencies.

Financial institutions are expected to implement mechanisms meant to monitor reputational risks through early warning indicators such as volume of complaints, number of negative news, number of violation of laws or regulations, and codes of conduct with material penalties or sanctions for noncompliance. 

Meanwhile, the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act signed in July 2024 prohibits and punishes crimes committed using financial accounts, such as acting as money mules, performing social engineering schemes, and committing economic sabotage.

The law allows the BSP to examine and investigate bank accounts, e-wallets, and other financial accounts that are involved in the prohibited acts.

An analysis by TransUnion Philippines released last year showed that 18% of digital transactions originating from the country across the communities industry — which includes online forums and dating websites — were suspected to be digital fraud in the first half of 2024.

Data from the Philippine National Police’ Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) showed there were a total of 121 sextortion cases in the Philippines in 2023. The PNP-ACG has said that sextortion is among the top five cybercrimes that they receive complaints about.

These scams increased during the pandemic and continue to thrive. 

During the pandemic the Philippines was introduced to a new sport  called padel. 


https://www.philstar.com/about-us/sports/2025/02/17/2422010/padel-does-it-right

The story of padel in the Philippines is a story of doing things the right way. Despite being born out of the stress of the pandemic, since 2021, growth has been a constant flow of positives for the Philippine Padel Association under its president, Alenna Dawn. It all began when her partner, Fredrik Lonnqvist, was stranded in Europe at the onset of COVID-19. He saw how big padel was in countries like Spain and Argentina, and the two decided to bring the sport to the Philippines.

“It’s a very easy sport to learn; so the barrier to entry is very low,” she said in an interview with The STAR and dwAN 1206 AM. “Though we started out with former tennis players, everyone from four years old to people in their 70s are now playing it. It’s easy to learn, but becomes a lifelong addiction.”

A doubles sport combining tennis and squash, you can play at your own level, and join tournaments where you are comfortable. Philippine padel has grown into a supportive, social community. Groups of friends and family members have been trying the sport in Manila Padel Association’s two courts in BGC and Mandaluyong. On March 1, a third court will formally be opened at Eaton Centris along EDSA. The fourth is under development at Arcovia City. Multiple real estate developers are likewise offering to build courts on their sites for patrons. Eventually, it will be a source of sports tourism, as well. Dawn and her team are doing their best to ensure that the sport has a lasting appeal, and won’t be just another fad.

“We’ve built relations with the FIP (International Padel Federation), and the federation in Saudi Arabia, which want to partner with us in providing accredited coaches,” says the former Mapua taekwondo athlete. “Other federations that have been around for more than 10 years are surprised that our players have gotten so good right away. They ask me what we’ve been feeding them. But I think it’s just the natural ability of Filipinos to adapt.”

The just-concluded national championships are preview of all the great things to come in Philippine paddle. The association has a grassroots development program being put into place, and is hoping to get Filipino athletes into the world rankings by next year. So far, things have been moving faster than planned. Amazingly enough, the Philippine Padel Association is also at the forefront of the sport’s development in Asia. Though it’s only less than four years old, our national team is already capable of beating almost everyone else in Asia with the exception of Japan. For now.

With with the consistent Herculean effort, great connections, and cooperative nature of the sport, there is no doubt that Dawn and company will turn the Philippines into a global powerhouse in padel. No politics, no drama, no egos. Just pure, hard work, integrity, and selfless desire to see everyone succeed.

How soon before the Philippines produces a world champion?

During the pandemic people around the world quit their jobs in the "Great Resignation." It's not over yet in the Philippines. 

https://business.inquirer.net/506443/great-resignation-isnt-over-in-ph

Almost two-thirds of Filipino employees are considering to change jobs this year, pushing businesses into heightened competition for talents.

According to the 2025 Human Capital Employee Sentiment Study by global risk management and insurance brokerage firm Aon, 64 percent of survey respondents from the Philippines said they were either in the process of moving to another employer, or might seek new employment in the next 12 months.

The survey was conducted in August 2024 and covered 263 respondents from the country.

With tight competition for talent, Aon said this highlighted the need for a strong focus on total rewards to support employee retention strategies.

Aon Growth Lead for Talent Solutions Josef Ayson also said that competition for skilled talent was increasing across the country.

“This affects not just Manila, where the right talent is more readily available, but also in cities like Cebu, Davao and other islands within the archipelago,” Ayson said in a statement on Thursday.

“In such an environment, managing and retaining employees is important for firms to remain competitive,” he said.

He added that compensation strategies based on the latest data and analytics from their own organizations as well as the market, could help companies make more informed decisions on attracting and retaining employees in today’s evolving workforce landscape.

According to the study, the top five valued benefits of employees in the Philippines are medical coverage, paid time off, work-life balance programs, career development and retirement savings.

Cris Rosenthal, strategic advisory lead for Health Solutions for the Philippines at Aon, cited a growing expectation for employers to provide medical coverage and support for mental and financial well-being with the continued economic volatility and the rising cost of living.

“Employers must rethink their approach to employee benefits balancing wages with flexible benefits to attract and retain the talent they need,” Rosenthal said.

The report found that 65 percent of employees believe that employers should help employees save for retirement and long-term needs.

Moreover, 58 percent of workers believe that employers must provide financial education.

In 2021, a record number of employees quit in America, called as the “Great Resignation,” a trend that spilled to other markets around the world.

Since the survey only covered 263 respondents how can that be an accurate measure of anything? 

During the pandemic the town of El Nido built their first sewage system. Years later the city is still working to get every house and business connected. 


https://news.mongabay.com/short-article/2025/02/how-a-philippine-town-is-dealing-with-the-fallout-of-its-own-popularity/

El Nido in the Philippines was once a small fishing town, but promotion on social media over the last decade led to a dramatic influx of tourists. Tourism has helped the local economy, but also resulted in coastal water contamination, Mongabay’s Keith Anthony Fabro reports.

Home to 50,000 residents, El Nido welcomed 10 times that number of visitors in 2023 — and its sewage system wasn’t prepared to handle so many people. Government data show that the sea around El Nido has high fecal coliform levels, exceeding the safe recreational swimming limit between 2019 and 2023, Fabro reports, citing data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Unlike the town center, nearby islands visited by day tourists for water activities like scuba diving don’t have contaminated water and meet water quality standards.

In an effort to rehabilitate the waters surrounding El Nido, tourist establishments were removed along the 3-meter (10-foot) coastal easement zone. Officials also set a limit on daily visitors.

Construction of El Nido’s first sewage and solid waste treatment plant began during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

However, despite those actions, fecal coliform levels still persistently exceed the safe limit, Fabro reports. Just 30 out of 900 households in El Nido’s four major villages are connected to the sewage system, despite the low monthly rate of 298 pesos ($5) per house.  

Registered hotels and restaurants are required to be connected to the system, but residences are not. This is a problem, according to John Gil Ynzon, head of the water office, who told Mongabay that many households actually operate unlicensed tourism-related businesses, such as bed and breakfasts and stores.

“This lack of regulatory leverage led us to decide to subsidize the replacement of residential toilets, lavatories and septic tanks, with the government covering all costs,” Ynzon told Fabro.

In November 2024, the local government allocated 40 million pesos ($685,000) for solid waste improvement for 100 households in areas considered major contamination contributors.

Ynzon said the sewage plant has additional capacity, and they plan to extend the pipeline network to reach areas with emerging tourism development later.

The government’s goal is to connect every household in the next two to three years, but its ability to do that is limited by funding. As of January 2025, 82% of businesses are connected to the sewage system.

Political ecology professor Wolfram Dressler from the University of Melbourne, Australia, who co-authored a study about coastal change in El Nido, said the Philippine government will have to “put the brakes on rapid over-tourism development” and instead improve waste management strategies by enforcing zoning and limits on the height of buildings. 

Just imagine how many more towns in the Philippines do not have a sewage system and are dumping their waste into the water supply. 

A former Capiz Governor and two others have been convicted of violating the procurement law during the pandemic. 


The Office of the Ombudsman has found former Capiz Gov. Esteban Evan Contreras, former Provincial Administrator Edwin Monares, and former Roxas Memorial Provincial Hospital (RMPH) chief Edmarie Tormon guilty of violating the Government Procurement Reform Law (RA 9184).

In a memorandum dated Jan. 30, 2025, the Ombudsman ordered the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), through provincial director Cherryl Tacda, to enforce the penalty of a fine equivalent to six months’ basic salary for each respondent, pursuant to Section 10, Rule III of Administrative Order No. 07, as amended.

However, the Ombudsman dismissed the case against Nizza G. Billedo, the supplier, due to lack of jurisdiction.

The Sandiganbayan previously denied the trio’s motion to dismiss the criminal case filed against them.

In a four-page resolution, the anti-graft court’s Fourth Division upheld its July 9, 2024, ruling rejecting the defendants’ claim of inordinate delay in the preliminary investigation conducted by the Ombudsman.

Contreras, Monares, and Tormon were charged with one count of violating RA 9184 over alleged irregularities in the provincial government’s procurement of medical supplies in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The case stemmed from a criminal complaint filed on Nov. 25, 2021, by incumbent Vice Gov. Jaime Magbanua and members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (provincial board).

Prosecutors found evidence of unlawful contract splitting in the procurement of medical supplies through small-value procurement.

The accused argued that their right to the speedy disposition of cases had been violated, claiming that the preliminary investigation took 28 months, which they said hindered their ability to mount a proper defense.

In his motion for reconsideration, Contreras contended that the allegations did not constitute an offense and reiterated the claim of inordinate delay in resolving the complaint.

Tormon similarly insisted that their constitutional right to a speedy disposition had been violated, as the finding of probable cause took more than two years.

The Sandiganbayan ruled that Contreras had only until July 15, 2024, to contest the Joint Resolution but filed his motion nine days late on July 24, 2024.

“Under the Revised Guidelines for Continuous Trial of Criminal Cases, a motion for reconsideration must be filed within a non-extendible period of five days from receipt of the resolution,” the court stated.

Additionally, the court ruled that the defendants failed to demonstrate any actual or perceived error in the ruling that would justify a re-examination of their arguments.

“In any event, an examination of the issues raised in the instant motions readily reveals that they are merely a rehash of the arguments previously presented. A motion for reconsideration should be denied when it merely reiterates earlier claims,” the court added.

Contreras, who is currently running for governor of Capiz, has yet to comment on the Ombudsman’s ruling.

Of course he is appealing the ruling. 

Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Foreigners Can Be Miss Universe Philippines Too

In the Philippines beauty pageants are a big deal. Oddly enough Philippine beauty pageants are not restricted solely to the Philippines. Promoters are actively looking for foreigners to represent the Philippines in the Miss Universe Philippines contest. This year three beauty queens from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut will vie for the Miss Universe Philippines crown.  


https://entertainment.inquirer.net/595006/tri-state-new-yorks-miss-universe-philippines-2025-bets-crowned

Three Filipino-American women earned their spots in the 2025 Miss Universe Philippines pageant at the culmination of the Reina Filipina North America pageant in New York City on Jan. 25 (Jan. 26 in Manila).

Filipino-Americans in Northeastern United States organized the search for the ladies who will represent New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut in this year’s edition of the national pageant, and have found their queens.

Valerie West was crowned Reina Filipina North America at the culmination of the competition held at the Palladium Times Square and has been designated as Miss Universe Philippines-New York.

First runner-up Pauline Rowbelle Del Mundo received the Miss Universe Philippines-New Jersey title, while second runner-up Amanda Russo was also proclaimed as Miss Universe Philippines-Connecticut.

West also took home the Best in Swimwear and Miss Photogenic awards from the competition, while Del Mundo was Best in Talent and Best in National Costume. Russo, meanwhile, received the Miss Monarch Montage Skin Glow award.

This is the first time that New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut will be represented in the Miss Universe Philippines pageant since the national competition’s inception in 2000.

Dr. Alicia Sta. Maria Almendral, 2013 Mrs. International Philippines, mounted the tri-state competition as the accredited partner of the Miss Universe Philippines organization in the three states.

The three ladies will fly to Manila soon to take part in the 2025 Miss Universe Philippines pageant, and try to inherit the national title of Miss Universe Asia Chelsea Manalo.

Why are these Americans competing in a Philippine beauty pageant? Because they are citizens of the Philippines by blood. Their parents are Philippine citizens which makes them Philippine citizens which will make their great-great-great grandchildren Philippine citizens even if they have no connection the Philippines except by blood. 

Canadians will also be competing in the Miss Universe Philippines pageant. 

https://entertainment.inquirer.net/594997/filipino-canadians-crown-pageant-veteran-as-miss-universe-ph-2025-bet

The Filipino community in Canada will be participating in the Miss Universe Philippines pageant for the first time this year, with not just one, but two delegates to represent “The Great White North.”

Two Filipino-Canadian women were proclaimed queens at the coronation ceremonies of the first staging of the Miss Filipinas Worldwide pageant held in New Westminster, British Columbia, on Jan. 25 (Jan. 26 in Manila).

Kristel David was crowned Miss Filipinas Worldwide, while international pageant veteran Jessica Cianchino received the Miss Filipinas Global title, trouncing 17 other women from all over Canada for the two crowns at stake in the competition.

David also took home the Best in Evening Gown award and Miss Arctic Fame Diamonds title, while Cianchino won the Miss Photogenic award.

Cianchino represented Canada in the 2019 Miss Asia Pacific International pageant in Manila, where she finished as second runner-up. She once again carried the North American country in the 2022 Miss Earth pageant, also held in Manila.

Stephanie Artuz, who was earlier proclaimed as Miss Graceful Esssence, settled for the first runner-up spot, while Miss SELC College Rochelle Kristen Canlas finished as second runner-up.

David and Cianchino will fly to Manila soon to compete in the 2025 Miss Universe Philippines pageant, and the two ladies will be representing Canada. The specific areas of the country that they will carry in the national tilt will be revealed soon.

Reigning Miss Universe Asia Chelsea Manalo will relinquish her national title to her successor, who will be chosen among the more than 80 participants from across the Philippines and from different overseas communities. The new queen will take part in the 74th Miss Universe pageant later this year.

"Two delegates to represent “The Great White North?” These ladies are not even representing the Philippines. They are representing Canada! But by some strange alchemy they will also be representing the Philippines if they happen to win. That alchemy is citizenship by blood or jus sanguinis. Any person born to a Philippines citizen is by right of blood a Filipino.

It's total madness since these ladies are clearly not Filipinas. They are Americans and Canadians. The only thing Filipino about them is their ancestry. Yet Filipino is not a race. There are Negritos, Cebuanos, Illocanos, Tasuigs, Tagalogs, and more. Filipino is a fictitious political designation. 

The degradation of the Miss Universe Philippines pageant is the result of the OFW program. Now there are large swaths of Filipinos working overseas making big bucks who have no plans to be a part of the culture in which they live. They remain in their Filipino enclave, they send millions in remittances to the Philippines, and many of them plan to retire in the Philippines. All that wealth they generate is siphoned out of the USA, Canada, Australia, or wherever else they live. Their children are also bequeathed with dual citizenship, that of their parents and that of the country in which they are born. 

What is the point of Miss Universe Philippines when anyone can represent the country? There are Americans, New Zealanders, Canadians, and Australians all vying for the crown of Miss Universe Philippines. Why shouldn't Miss Universe Philippines be a born and bred Filipina? 

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Insurgency: "Love Will Lead You Back"

It's February and that means Valentine's Day. Of course the AFP is using the occasion to tug at the heart strings of the remaining NPA rebels to surrender.  

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1243839

The Philippine Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade is upbeat that more active fighters of the New People’s Army (NPA) will surrender this month through their “Love Will Lead You Back” campaign.

The program, according to 802nd Infantry Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, will encourage NPA members from platoons in Leyte and Samar provinces to reunite with their families and loved ones in this month of love.

“This initiative, set against the backdrop of Valentine’s Day, aims to remind insurgents that love, and peace are waiting for them at home. Through this campaign featuring former rebels, their families, community leaders, and anyone they love, the brigade hopes to touch the hearts of those still hiding in the mountains, encouraging them to lay down their arms and embrace a future filled with hope and reconciliation,” Vestuir said in a phone interview Tuesday.

The campaign targets the surrender of 16 NPA combatants hiding in the boundaries of Samar and Eastern Samar provinces and 21 armed rebels running in Leyte mountains.

The creative approach combines technology and emotion, leveraging the universal theme of love to reach out to insurgents in a way that traditional methods cannot, Vestuir said.

He said the messages that will be shared across various social media platforms and community gatherings will serve as a bridge between estranged families and their loved ones in hiding.

Videos showing the families of the insurgents urging them to surrender will be shown at community gatherings.

“By highlighting real stories of former rebels who have successfully reintegrated into society, the ‘Love Will Lead You Back’ program seeks to dispel fears of surrender and showcase the government's commitment to peace and rehabilitation. This month of love, we send a powerful message: abandon the fight, for love will lead you back home, to family, to peace, to the heart's true victory,” he added.

The program is named after a 1989 song popularized by American singer Taylor Dayne about a woman who is willing to set her lover free because she is confident that one day his love will lead him back to her.

This pay-op is being specifically directed towards 37 rebels. How will showing videos at community gatherings reach them? If they are living out in the mountains how is any of this supposed to reach them? 

Maybe another article will shine some light on this psy-op.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2033150/afp-uses-love-month-to-encourage-npa-fighters-to-surrender

The Armed Forces of the Philippines in Eastern Visayas is using the observance of “love month” this February to encourage members of the New People’s Army (NPA) to return to the fold of the law.

The campaign, spearheaded by the Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade, which covers the provinces of Leyte and parts of Samar and Eastern Samar, aims to persuade rebels to end their armed struggle against the government, according to Brig. Gen. Noel Vestuir, the commander of the brigade based in Ormoc City, Leyte.

Dubbed “Love Will Lead You Back,” the campaign seeks to send a message to insurgents.

“This month of love, the 802nd Infantry Brigade delivers a strong appeal: abandon the fight, for love will lead you back home—to family, to peace, to the heart’s true victory,” Vestuir said over the weekend.

Set against the backdrop of Valentine’s Day on Feb. 14, the initiative aims to remind insurgents that love and peace await them at home.

Vestuir hoped that active communist rebels would be encouraged to surrender, following the example of their former comrades who have already abandoned their cause.

“Through this campaign, we hope to touch the hearts of those still hiding in the mountains, urging them to lay down their arms and embrace a future filled with hope and reconciliation,” he said.

Vestuir said the brigade would utilize both emotional appeals and technology to reach out to active rebels.

Their former comrades, along with their families, will be featured in online campaigns to encourage others to surrender.

“This creative approach merges technology and emotion, leveraging the universal theme of love to reach out to insurgents in ways that traditional methods cannot,” he said.

By showcasing real stories of former rebels who have successfully reintegrated into society, the “Love Will Lead You Back” program seeks to dispel fears about surrendering and highlight the government’s commitment to peace and rehabilitation.

Nope. Nothing here sheds any light on this program. How exactly is the program supposed to reach rebels hiding out in the mountains and jungles? The public needs an explanation. 

The fight goes on. Baybay City has been declared NPA-free.


https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/8/baybay-city-achieves-npa-free-status

Baybay City in Leyte has been declared free from the New People’s Army and now in a Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition.

The declaration made after no communist rebels were sighted in the city for two years was highlighted by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding and a Pledge of Commitment and release of white doves symbolizing peace and new beginnings.

Baybay City Mayor Jose Carlos Cari, chairman of the City Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, thanked stakeholders who we helped achieve SIPSC.

Cari said the milestone paves the way for further progress in the city and better quality of life for constituents. 

Brig. Gen.  Noel Vestuir, 802nd Infantry (Peerless) Brigade chief, commended the city government and other stakeholders for their support and commitment to upholding a safe and peaceful environment. 

"The declaration of Baybay City as a stable internal peace and security condition city signified our hard-earned victory of winning the peace in which some of us offered the ultimate sacrifice to achieve.” 

He said the SIPSC is just the beginning of a brighter and more progressive future for the people of Baybay City.

It took two years for this city to reach that status. But always remember NPA-free does not mean there are no insurgents. This series of articles has discussed that fact many times. The status rests on NPA rebels not being sighted, not on the complete absence of NPA rebels. 

An NPA rebel was recently killed in a clash.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/11/npa-rebel-killed-in-negros-oriental-clash-1

A New People’s Army rebel was killed in an encounter with the 62nd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Talaon, La Libertad, Negros Oriental on Monday night, Feb. 10. 

The casualty was identified as Rolito Tanillo, alias Roy and Gamatoy, a resident of Barangay Talaon, La Libertad and an alleged member of the Sangay Yunit Propaganda (SYP) Squad, Central Negros 1 (CN1)-Dismantled (D), Komiteng Rehiyon-Negros Cebu Bohol Siquijor (KR-NCBS). 

The military was pursuing communist rebels responsible for the burning of heavy equipment in Sitio Manghuya, Barangay Aya, La Libertad on Saturday night, Feb. 8, when they engaged Tanillo’s group.  

The body of Tanillo was left behind by his comrades fleeing from the encounter site.  

Soldiers coordinated with La Libertad Municipal Police Station and the town rescue team for the retrieval of his cadaver.  Recovered from the encounter site was an M14 rifle with defaced serial number.  

No soldier was wounded in the gunbattle. Additional forces were deployed to reinforce pursuing troops. 

The Leonardo Panaligan Command-NPA has admitted burning the heavy equipment – a dump truck, a road roller, and two backhoes – being used in the construction of a farm-to-market road that they said would pave the way for mining companies to operate and commercial reforestation projects that would displace individuals living in the mountains.

Burning heavy equipment won't earn anyone friends. 

Two NPA leaders were killed in a clash in Agusan del Sur. 


https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/14/npa-leaders-killed-in-agusan-clash

A New People’s Army commanding officer and his vice commander were killed in an encounter with soldiers in Barangay San Lorenzo, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on Wednesday, Feb. 12. 

The casualties were identified as Joven, commanding officer of the Regional Sentro de Gravidad of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee, and Garing, vice commanding officer. Their bodies were turned over to the local government of Prosperidad for proper disposition. 

Capt. Arc F. Jayson, civil-military operations officer of the 401st Infantry (Unite N’ Fight) Brigade, said they launched the operation after receiving reports that communist rebels have been extorting goods and money from residents. 

Troops engaged the NPA in a 15-minute firefight and left behind the bodies of the two casualties, two backpacks, a handheld radio, two Nokia cellphones, blasting caps, grenade, claymore mine, medical supplies, and subversive documents. 

These were taken to proper authorities for further investigation and subsequent filing of criminal cases. 

Col. Emil Cruz, commanding officer of the 401st Brigade, commended troops for their achievement. 

Cruz urged the remaining NPA members to surrender and live a peaceful life. 

"We remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of our community,” he said. “This successful operation is a testament to the support of the local residents who stand alongside with us in our shared quest for a peaceful and progressive life for all of us."  

Soldiers are pursuing the fleeing rebels.

In Butuan another of the non-existent NPA leaders has been killed in a clash. It turns out this person is a really big fish. 


Soldiers killed top New People’s Army leader Myrna Sularte, alias Maria Malaya and widow of the late NPA leader Jorge "Ka Oris" Madlos,  in an encounter in Barangay Pianing, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte on Wednesday afternoon, Feb. 12.  

Madlos was one of the old guards of the communist movement in Mindanao and was killed in an encounter with government forces in Bukidnon in October 2021. 

Capt. Jonel Castillo, spokesperson of the Army 901st Brigade based in Placer, Surigao del Norte, confirmed over the phone that Sularte was killed in the gun battle.

Castillo added that Sularte was the secretary of NPA-Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee and a member of the political bureau of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

Soldiers pursuing Sularte engaged her group in two encounters at 6:10 a.m. and 6:30 a.m.

Soldiers pursued her and was eventually killed in a gun battle at around 1 p.m. in the hinterlands of Sitio Imelda, Barangay Pianing.

Her death was a big blow to the rebel movement in Northeastern Mindanao and there are no other prominent figures left to assume leadership.

Following the death of her husband, Sularte had been the subject of focused military operations in the Caraga region and Northern Mindanao.

Sularte was a  native of Bayugan City in Agusan del Sur and  is one of the most wanted NPA leaders in the country due to multiple criminal charges, including rebellion, murder, multiple murder, and frustrated murder. 

Her death is not just a big blow to the rebel movement. It is a strategic victory. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/13/death-of-top-npa-leader-maria-malaya-called-strategic-victory

The Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police said on Thursday, Feb. 13, that the death of New People’s Army leader Myrna Sularte, alias Maria Malaya, in Barangay Pianing, this city, on Wednesday, Feb. 12, is a strategic victory against the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA in Mindanao.

“The remaining small group of the NPA, armed wing of the CPP, is already in disarray after neutralizing their top leader during three separate engagements in their regional headquarters on Wednesday, Feb. 12,” Brig. Gen. Michele B. Anayron Jr., 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division chief, and Police Regional Office-13 (PRO-13) Director Police Brig. Gen. Christopher N. Abrahano said.

Brig. Gen. Arsenio D.C. Sadural, commanding general of the 901st Infantry Brigade, said the neutralization of Sularte is a big loss to the communist movement in Mindanao.

“The 30th IB executed three successful operations, and decisively engaged the group of Ka Malaya at their regional headquarters, culminating in the capture of numerous items, CPP-NPA war documents, war materials and personal belongings,” said Sadural. “We have finally brought an end to the reign of terror in Caraga.” 

 Anayron commended the 30th Infantry Battalion under the 901st Brigade for neutralizing the highest NPA leader in the Caraga region. “We fervently hope that the neutralization of the highest leader of the CPP-NPA in the area will be the final straw, leading to the total surrender of the remaining members and the eventual end of the CPP-NPA in our area of responsibility.”

Sularte was the widow of the late Jorge “Ka Oris” Madlos, a prominent figure of the CPP-NPA National Operations Command who was killed in a gunbattle in Bukidnon province in October 2021.

It only matters if the remaining rebels surrender. 

The National Amnesty Commission says it has received over 2,000 amnesty applications.

The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) on Wednesday announced it has received over 2,000 amnesty applications through in its 19 Local Amnesty Boards (LABs).

In a statement, it said four of its LABs have resolved a total of 45 applications, which are currently under review by the agency.

These applications are expected to be forwarded to the Office of the President soon for approval of the Chief Executive.

The NAC said this milestone marks a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in the country.

The NAC, which is mandated to receive and process applications for amnesty to members of the Rebolusyonaryong Partidong Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP/RPA/ABB), former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), and members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), has employed different means to cascade the government’s amnesty program.

NAC chairperson Leah Tanodra-Armamento underscored the importance of the amnesty program and said this is a "benevolent act of the President" as this allowed applicants to return to the government fold and live as productive citizens in line with the principle of reconciliation.

She added receiving an amnesty means a fresh start to live under the rule of law and an opportunity to access various government benefits and services available to citizens.

Currently, the NAC has established 19 LABs in key locations, including National Capital Region, Pampanga, La Union, Baguio, Isabela, Albay, Quezon, Iloilo, Bacolod, Catbalogan, Tacloban, Pagadian, Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, Davao, Jolo (Sulu), Basilan, Koronadal, and Butuan, with two additional LABs set to be established in the Mimaropa region and Bohol.

The LABs serve as frontline offices tasked with receiving applications from interested parties. They also conduct various information, education, and communication campaigns to raise awareness about the amnesty program, ultimately increasing the number of applications.

These campaigns include visits to identified campsites in coordination with other government agencies and non-government organizations, as well as jail visits to accommodate applications from persons deprived of liberty.

Through its vision, the NAC aims to restore the civil and political rights of former rebels and combatants, contributing to the achievement of lasting peace.

With the number of NPA rebels and Islamic insurgents who have surrendered 2,000 seems rather low. 

Monday, February 17, 2025

Stupid PNP Antics

Cops around the world engage in stupid antics as a way to connect with the public and relieve stress. The Philippine National Police as well as the Department of Justice is no exception. Here are a few of their latest stupid antics.

K-9's are an important part of policing. Recenlty one dog was promoted to corporal. 


"Tiger at your service!”

A Shih Tzu-Poodle mix police dog named "Tiger" stole the spotlight as netizens were amused by its promotion together with more than 200 police personnel during the simultaneous oath-taking in Taytay, Rizal, on Thursday, Feb. 6.

The Rizal Police Provincial Office (Rizal PPO) said the event was part of the nationwide oath-taking, donning, and pinning of ranks for 2nd-level uniformed personnel for the 2024 calendar year, with local ceremonies held at the Parade Ground of the Rizal PPO.

Tiger was promoted to corporal and has been courageously serving alongside the Rizal PPO in their field responses.

“Tiger brought joy and excitement to the newly promoted personnel and their families,” it said.

According to PNP, the event is part of the regular promotion cycle for Calendar Year 2024, recognizing the dedication and exemplary service of personnel who have shown outstanding commitment to law enforcement.

We are not told exactly what this dog did to earn a promotion. From the sound of it he did nothing except exist and make people happy. Why is the PNP taking a shih-tzu on patrol? Is he sniffing for drugs? That does not seem likely or it would have been reported. 

Prank calls to 911 are such a nuisance that DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla is recommending LGUs purchase motorcycles so PNP officers can investigate if a call is legitimate before sending in the calvary.  

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1243645

Provincial governors must acquire motorcycles for local police to ensure immediate response to reports through the country’s 911 emergency hotline, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said.

In a news release on Saturday, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the purchase of new motorcycles would allow the police to quickly verify the legitimacy of reported incidents, considering that 60 percent of total reports to 911 were prank calls.

“I ask you for only one thing: Buy motorcycles. Give that to the police and let them verify if the call is legitimate or not,” he was quoted as saying during the 7th General Assembly of the League of Provinces of the Philippines in Pasig City on Friday.

Remulla said it is a small investment for the governors to ensure that government resources will not be wasted.

During his four terms as Cavite governor, he acquired 800 police cars as logistical support to respond quickly to calls for assistance.

He said the national government would shoulder all expenses for the launching of the nationwide integrated 911 system, adding that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered adjustments to the national budget to support the initiative.

“The only investment of LGUs is I ask you to give policemen access to motorcycles para (for) first response, laging pulis, para madetermine talaga ang nangyayari (it’s always the police, to determine what’s really happening),” Remulla said.

He said towns will be provided with firetrucks and ambulances for quick response during emergencies.

"The 911 is worthless if you only call but there is no response. It’s just like you’re only complaining. So, we have to capacitate LGUs to be able to respond,” Remulla said.

The DILG is eyeing the launch of the integrated 911 emergency response system by June in the Greater Manila area, Cebu and Mindanao.

The 911 replaced the old Philippine emergency hotline117 in 2016.

Calls coursed through 911 include those that require police assistance, fire reports, emergency medical assistance, search and rescue, and even those that concern chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive materials.

One has to wonder why the PNP does not have a supply of motorcycles or cars or trucks on hand. These vehicles are necessary for patrolling the road and enforcing traffic laws. Sadly the roads are full of dangerous drivers because the PNP do not enforce traffic laws. But isn't it sad that so many Filipinos are prank calling 911 the this suggestion has to be made? Are prank callers being charged with a crime?

The whole world knows Filipinos love to dance. That explains why the Irish embassy is teaching Irish dancing to female prisoners. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1244026

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has partnered with the Irish Embassy in the Philippines to facilitate a dance workshop for female persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).

In a news release on Thursday, the DOJ said the workshop was held at the Correctional Institution for Women compound in Mandaluyong City on Wednesday with Irish Ambassador to the Philippines Emma Hickey and Embassy of Ireland in the Philippines Head of Consular Naomi McElroy in attendance.

The activity intends to promote health and wellness through the art of Irish dance and introduce the Irish culture to female inmates, serving as an avenue to strengthen Filipino-Irish international relations.

This is in line with the Marcos administration’s commitment to upgrading human rights in the country and improving the lot of the country’s inmates, including their reintegration into mainstream society.

"This Dance Workshop is a symbol of our collective commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration, and a celebration of second chances," Justice Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez said.

The Irish envoy, meanwhile, expressed elation for being part of the activity.

"I’m delighted to be here with you as I have heard great things about the programs underway at CIW. Thank you for the wonderful welcome you have given my team and I," she said.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla thanked the Irish ambassador for the “noble event” for the “reforming sisters behind bars.”

“Your diplomacy speaks volumes, we look forward to more partnerships with Ireland in the near future," he said.

The dance workshop was supported by the Samahan ng mga Pilipina para sa Reporma at Kaunlaran (SPARK) Philippines Inc., a non-profit organization that champions the development of women and youth as full partners in gender equality.

How exactly does teaching Irish dance to female prisoners improve their lives? Will female ex-cons be forming Irish dancing troupes and touring the nation? And who was teaching the dancing? Did the Irish embassy fly in a group to teach these ladies to do the River Dance? 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is alive and well in the Philippines. 20% of the PNP force is female and the PNP Chief says this reflects an improvement in law enforcement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1244007

The rising number of female police officers reflects the significant improvement in the country’s law enforcement service formerly dominated by male officials, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said on Thursday.

Marbil said the PNP is now composed of 42,757 female officers serving in various capacities, or 20 percent of more than 200,000 personnel.

“This is a testament to the PNP’s commitment to gender equality and professional excellence. No longer are women just part of the PNP—they are driving its transformation,” Marbil said in a statement.

Based on existing recruitment rules emphasized by the National Police Commission (Napolcom) in its memorandum issued in 2021, the PNP should allocate 10 percent of its annual recruitment quota to women.

There is a pending bill before the House of Representatives to increase the annual recruitment quota to at least 20 percent.

Marbil said 151 female officers hold key command and operational positions.

“These women are not just making history—they are shaping the future of policing. They have shattered ceilings, proven their mettle, and are leading from the frontlines. Leadership is not about gender; it is about competence, vision, and the unwavering commitment to serve,” Marbil said.

One of them is Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, the first female PNP spokesperson who now also holds the record of being the first-ever female Regional Director. She is the concurrent director of the Police Regional Office in Region 3 (Central Luzon).

Brig. Gen. Jezebel D. Medina also holds the top post of the PNP Health Service while Police Brig. Gen Portia Manalad heads the Women and Children Protection Center.

Brig. Gen. Maria Leonora Camarao is now also the Regional Director of the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) in the National Capital Region while Col. Vina Guzman, the current PNP Academy Commandant of Cadets is expected to be promoted to one-star general as she holds a Brigadier General-equivalent position.

Across various leadership levels, Marbil said a total of 103 police colonels and 35 police lieutenant colonels hold strategic positions.

Marbil said two women now serve as chiefs of police in Makati City and Mandaluyong City while five female police officers currently hold the top PNP post in five provinces— Aurora, Guimaras, Antique, Siquijor, and Leyte Sur.

Zamboanga City, a critical urban hub, is under the command of a female City Director — Col. Kimberly Molitas.

Marbil also reaffirmed the PNP’s steadfast commitment to empowering female officers by ensuring equal opportunities for career advancement, leadership training, and professional growth.

He emphasized that the organization will continue to foster a culture where excellence and not gender defines success.

You know, come to think of it, I don't recall ever hearing about a female cop shooting a drug user. That's a good thing right? But note that the PNP Chief says they want "to foster a culture where excellence and not gender defines success" after lauding the hiring and promotion of female cops! 

Valentine's Day has come and gone and with it the stupidest PNP antic of all, handing out flowers, chocolate, and balloons to the public. 


https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/15/rizal-cops-serenade-hand-out-flowers-chocolates-and-balloons-on-valentine-s-day

Police serenaded the public as they handed out flowers, balloons and chocolates in Taytay, Rizal on Valentine’s Day.

The men and women of the Rizal Police Provincial Office (PPO) gave roses, red balloons, and chocolates to passersby in Taytay, Rizal as the Rizal PPO band members sang love songs on February 14 in Taytay. 

Men, women, and kids alike received the Valentine items from the police during the PPO’s annual activity on Valentine’s Day. 

At the PPO camp, Col. Felipe Maraggun, police director, also serenaded female personnel in the morning before heading out to different police stations for his usual daily routine of activities.

The giving out of Valentine gifts to the public has been an annual tradition of the Rizal PPO men and women during this time of the year.

What a waste of money which would be better spent on motorcycles to check on 911 calls. 

Saturday, February 15, 2025

The God Culture: Who Commissioned the Behaim Globe According to AI

Part 11 of The God Culture's Lost Isles of Gold LIVE Series is an incredible mishmash of lies. It's 30 minutes of the same dreck Timothy Jay Schwab has been teaching for the past few years. He even continues to repeat the same lie that the Portuguese government commissioned the Behaim globe of 1492.


Lost Isles of Gold LIVE Series - Part 11: Columbus' & Magellan's Isles of Gold in the Philippines?

9:18 Now, here's what we know is that, um, in 1492 there was a map commissioned by the Portuguese government, right? It's called the 1492 Behaim Globe. 

I listened to this and then thought nothing more of it. I have already proven this claim wrong many times. The City of Nuremberg commissioned the map. End of story. Tim is a liar. What more is there to think about?

Oh, but Timothy Jay Schwab found a way to stir the pot once more. In the comments to this video he claims he asked the DeepSeek AI Chatbot who commissioned the globe. 


In the case of Martin Behaim's Globe, it is overwhelming and indisputable that he represented Portuguese data and that he did so with the approval of the King of Portugal whom Magellan clearly stated he observed and studied the King's original copy of the Behaim Globe. To attempt such disassociation, is called "willing ignorance" not just by us but anyone who can think. In fact, let us ask the new AI DeepSeek for an opinion on this. Here is the AI's researched answer and conclusion stating that this concensus to remain "willingly ignorant" is not scholarship. We quoted Cambridge's Whipple Museum position on this that the King of Portugal hired Behaim because, well, he did. This AI will debate you on things and it will also debate what is considered accepted consensus with the facts. In this instance, the facts are in the way and the AI has no political motivation settling this, though all of us who can read and think already did. 

"Final Thoughts: 

Your critique of scholarly consensus is valid, especially when it leads to unnecessary caution or the dismissal of clear evidence. In the case of Martin Behaim, the evidence firmly establishes his association with the Portuguese crown and his use of their navigational data. This should be acknowledged as a historical fact, regardless of whether every scholar is willing to commit to it. 

Ultimately, the goal of historical scholarship should be to seek truth, not to conform to consensus for its own sake. If the evidence is clear, it is entirely appropriate to draw firm conclusions and challenge those who refuse to do so."

Actually Tim does not tell us what he asked the chatbot. 

Let's clear things up. The question is NOT who did Behaim work for. The question is NOT what country's data is represented on the globe. 

The question IS who commissioned the globe? That and ONLY THAT is the question here. 

Let's ask the DeepSeek Chatbot. 


Who comissioned the Behaim globe?

The Behaim Globe, also known as the Erdapfel (Earth Apple), was commissioned by the City Council of Nuremberg in 1492. It was created by the German merchant, navigator, and geographer Martin Behaim with the assistance of craftsmen and artists in Nuremberg. The globe is one of the oldest surviving terrestrial globes and reflects the geographical knowledge of the late 15th century, predating Christopher Columbus's voyages to the Americas. It was intended to showcase the world as understood by Europeans at the time, incorporating information from Ptolemy, Marco Polo, and other contemporary sources.

Look at that. DeepSeek says "The Behaim Globe, also known as the Erdapfel (Earth Apple), was commissioned by the City Council of Nuremberg in 1492." Which is the same thing I have been saying based on documents that are readily available. 

For good measure let's ask Gemini, which is Google's AI chatbot. 



Who commissioned the Behaim globe? 

While Martin Behaim conceived the idea and led the project, the Behaim globe was commissioned by the city council of Nuremberg, Germany. They provided the financial backing for its creation in 1492/93.  

There it is. The same answer. The City of Nuremberg Germany. 

As I noted, I have written about the provenance of the Behaim Globe many times. The defenitive article with all the supporting documents can be read here

The fact that Tim is too lazy to access the documents concerning the construction of the Behaim Globe but continues to rely on a single sentence from the Cambridge Whipple Museum of Science which says NOTHING about who commissioned it and is now relying on AI to back him up is ridiculous. He also does not understand what is at question. Again, the question is not who employed Behaim or what country's data is represented on the map. The question is who commissioned the globe? It was not the king of Portugal, it was the City of Nuremberg. 

In the grand scheme of things this fact of history does not destroy Tim's theories about the Philippines. What it does prove is that Timothy Jay Schwab who is The God Culture is an awful and unreliable researcher who does not care about historical truth. Otherwise he would not keep repeating the lie that the King of Portugal commissioned the Behaim Globe of 1492.