Recess Week 2 of Vice President Sara Duterte's Impeachment Trial

The second rest week of Sara Duterte's impeachment trial saw just as much buffoonery and clownish antics as in the previous week. What can be expected when the entire Philippine government is one big circus tent? Impeachment court presiding officer Senator Francis Escudero offered up an interesting statement on his podcast. He said he will refuse the office of Vice President if Sara is convicted.  

 

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/10/26/2565680/chiz-refuse-vp-post-if-vp-sara-convicted

Impeachment court presiding officer Francis Escudero on Sunday expressed full confidence in the fairness of the ongoing impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte, while categorically declaring that he would refuse the vice presidency if she is convicted and removed from office.

Under the Constitution, if the vice presidency becomes vacant, the President nominates a replacement from the members of Congress.

With several critics and analysts alleging that Escudero may have been offered to replace Duterte if she is convicted, he stated that accepting such a nomination after serving as a senator-judge would be a massive ethical breach.

“I will not accept it because of a simple reason. Conflict of interest. We were the ones who decided. That does not seem right,” Escudero said in his podcast, arguing that it is highly inappropriate for a judge to take the seat of the official they just ousted.

While noting that no official offer has been made, Escudero emphasized that his preemptive refusal is a strict personal conviction.

“I am not refusing something that is not offered... But even if offered, I will not accept it. And I hope it does not come to that so nothing will be accepted,” he added.

When asked if the trial is proceeding fairly, Escudero said he remains strictly neutral.

“I think it is fair,” Escudero said. “I don’t have a decision; I have not decided yet.”

Escudero stressed that while the court may sometimes appear heavier-handed toward the prosecution, it is only because the burden of proof entirely rests on them.

Escudero also cautioned his fellow senator-judges against relying on public surveys to determine the fate of Vice President Duterte, reminding the chamber that the public has only heard the prosecution’s side of the impeachment trial.

“It must not be based on it (surveys), it should be based on evidence,” Escudero said in his podcast. “It’s not right. We should not have gone to trial if we would just base it on surveys. We could have just had a survey, and then voted.”

He urged both the court and the public to reserve judgment until the defense has its turn. With the House prosecution officially resting its case, the defense is scheduled to begin presenting its evidence on Nov. 9.

Escudero confirmed it is highly possible for the trial to conclude before the year ends, though the final timeline depends heavily on how many witnesses the defense calls and the length of the ensuing cross-examinations.

Meanwhile, Escudero also defended the court’s decision to relax the Senate’s sub judice rule, or gag order, after prosecutors withdrew three of the four impeachment articles against Duterte.

Because those three charges were officially dismissed from the trial, the Vice President will no longer have a formal venue to defend herself against them on the Senate floor.

To compensate, Escudero explained that the court loosened the gag order so Duterte and her camp can publicly address the dropped allegations without fear of being cited in contempt.

Who asked him? No one. He made that statement unprovoked. But why? To provethat he is an unbiased and therefore ethical man? Funny that coming from a man who faces an ethics complaint in the Senate over an alleged ₱30-million campaign donation received from government contractor Lawrence Lubiano during the 2022 elections. That complaint may have stalled in the Senate but it didn't prevent him from being ousted as Senate President by Senator Sotto. And that is not to mention all the other complaints against him for graft, plunder, and malversation of funds.  

If Escudero is making a preemptive declaration of refusing the office of VP why not the rest of the Senate? Perhaps everyone should display how ethical they are by issuing a statement declaring they would refuse the office of VP is Sara is convicted. 

Note that Escudero defends the relaxation of the Senate’s sub judice rule so the defense can address the three withdrawn articles of impeachment. That means Sara will not be able to formally defend herself against those allegations. 

His comments about the fairness of the trial are also interesting. He is the presiding officer and yet he cannot tell if the proceedings have been fair? How can be be undecided on such a thing? He then says that "the court may sometimes appear heavier-handed toward the prosecution" "because the burden of proof entirely rests on them." How is that fair? Shouldn't each side be treated in the same manner? The defense has made more than a few procedural blunders which the court has failed to reprimand such as not submitting a verified witness list, misleading cross examinations, focusing on technicalities rather than substance which has only served to prolong the trial, and violating the court's sub-judice rule by holding press briefings publicly characterizing the articles of impeachment as having "inherent constitutional infirmities" and commenting on trial developments while hearings were actively ongoing. Was it fair to not reprimand them or is Escudero up in the air on the matter?

Senator Cayetano, a man with his own legal troubles and controversies, agreed wholeheartedly with Senator Escudero's statement. 

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/778972/cayetano-urges-peers-to-reject-vp-post-if-sara-duterte-is-convicted

Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano on Monday called on his fellow senator-judges to commit to rejecting the vice presidency if Vice President Sara Duterte is convicted in her impeachment trial and removed from office.

In a Facebook post, Cayetano backed Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero’s declaration that he would turn down any offer to take over the vice presidency should Duterte be convicted.

“This is right! All of us Senator-Judges should make this declaration,,” Cayetano said.

“It’s essential that in all impeachment proceedings (especially of Presidents and Vice Presidents), Senator-Judges are politically neutral and will have no incentive to convict except for evidence that proves the article/s of impeachment,” he added in his post.

In fact he said every Senator should make a public declaration they would reject the position of Vice President if offered should she be convicted. That didn't sit well with other Senators who singled him out and apparently forgot it was Escudero who said it first.  

https://mb.com.ph/2026/10/26/senators-alan-cayetano-call-on-vp-position-premature-uncalled-for

Some senators on Monday, October 26 said described the call made by Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano for senators to reject any possible offer to be the Vice President as “premature” and “uncalled for.” 

Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said Cayetano’s call was “uncalled for” precisely because the President has the prerogative to choose who should be nominated to the position in the event Vice President Sara Duterte is convicted in the impeachment trial.

“Why would he question the President’s prerogative to choose? Why is he being limited?” Lacson pointed out to reporters during an interview at the sidelines of the Senate’s budget hearing.

"I think it’s uncalled for for him to get ahead of the President’s decision. It’s up to the President to choose,” he further said.

Asked if he is interested, Lacson replied in the negative: “I’m not interested. I will refuse if offered.”

Besides, Lacson said the prerogative of the President to choose who is going to be the Vice President in the event the incumbent official is convicted is constitutional.

“He shouldn’t interfere. He should get ahead because it’s the President who will choose. Of course, subject to the confirmation of Congress. But don’t lead him,” he pointed out. 

Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito said that while he considers Cayetano’s proposal as feasible, such pronouncements are premature.

“It’s too early. On my part, we shouldn't be discussing who will be the next vice president or will be appointed as vice president,” Ejercito said in a separate interview.

"The impeachment trial is still ongoing. As I said, we’re not even sure what would be the verdict of the impeachment court. It’s as if we are already sure of the outcome. It’s premature to talk about it,” the senator further said. 

How did they forget impeachment court presiding officer Senator Francis Escudero was the first to make this declaration? Where is his condemnation for stepping on the President's prerogative and for being premature?

Even the Palace dogpilled on Cayetano declaring his call for fellow Senators to reject the offer of Vice President to be premature. 

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/1007318/palace-alan-cayetano-s-call-to-reject-vp-post-premature/story/

Malacañang on Tuesday said it was premature for Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano to urge his fellow senators to reject offers to become vice president should Vice President Sara Duterte be convicted in her impeachment trial.

Palace Press Officer and Undersecretary Claire Castro said the Office of the Vice President should be respected, noting that the impeachment trial was still ongoing and Duterte’s defense team had yet to present its evidence.

“First and foremost, the matter of replacing the Vice President should not be discussed at this time. It is highly premature. In my view, we should respect the Office of the Vice President,” Castro said in a press briefing in Cagayan de Oro City.

Castro urged senators to let the impeachment proceedings against Duterte run their course, saying President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. wanted due process to be observed before any discussion of succession.

“The impeachment trial is not yet over. Let the process take its course. That is, in fact, what the President wants—to let the process proceed and due process be observed," she said.

"So why discuss immediately who might replace the Vice President? The proceedings in the Senate have not yet concluded.,” Castro added.

Castro also said Cayetano should not dictate what his fellow senators should do or preempt the President's decision on the matter.

“He has no right to dictate what the senators should do, nor does he have the right to preempt the President’s decisions.,” she said.

Again, where is the condemnation of Escudero?  He made the first move and Cayetano is only agreeing with him. It seems Cayetano, by expanding on Escudero's remarks, has hit a nerve. Are there Senators gunning for VP behind the scenes? Is this really political theater to rid the nation of Sara Duterte? Are the impeachment trial judges less neutral than they should be?

Of course Sara Duterte's camp had to pipe up about the issue. They called replacement talk a premature distraction.  

 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2332082/sara-dutertes-camp-calls-replacement-talks-premature-a-distraction

Vice President Sara Duterte’s camp on Thursday dismissed discussions about her possible replacement as “premature” and called them a “distraction” from the “serious issues” surrounding her impeachment.

Duterte’s camp made the statement after several senators raised the issue, including Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano, who recently urged his colleagues to reject any offer from Malacañang to take over the country’s second-highest post should the vice president be convicted.

“Discussions on possible replacements for the Vice President are not only premature, they are a distraction from the serious issues hounding the impeachment,” Duterte’s spokesperson Atty. Paolo Panelo Jr. said in a statement.

Panelo said these issues include the Senate Impeachment Court’s alleged lack of fairness and impartiality, the supposed unconstitutionality of lowering the threshold for conviction, and other due process violations such as the alleged denial of Duterte’s fair opportunity to refute Articles I and IV, as well as what he described as the Senate majority’s lack of outrage over the time and public funds purportedly wasted when the prosecution withdrew the two articles.

“These issues raise grave doubts as to whether a conviction by the Senate Impeachment Court, and any consequent attempt to install a replacement, would rest on any solid legal and moral foundation,” the lawyer claimed.

Panelo, in the same statement, also reiterated that replacing the vice president would not solve the country’s most urgent crises such as the soaring inflation, the worsening effects of the Super El Niño and the sharp slowdown in economic growth.

According to Panelo, the impeachment proceedings have only made it clear how the current administration prioritizes political maneuvering over issues “that matter most to ordinary Filipinos: putting food on the table, keeping the economy afloat, and securing the nation’s future.”

Spokesman Panelo has raised serious issues about the fairness of the trial now that three articles have been dropped. The prosecution could have really shot themselves in the foot. However, Sara has to be convicted before any of these issues are brought before the Supreme Court. 

The prosecution continues to shrug off the Vice President's defense team objections to the dropped impeachment articles. They call it "just for social media."

https://mb.com.ph/2026/10/25/pang-socmed-chua-shrugs-off-vp-duterte-defense-teams-objections-to-dropped-impeachment-articles

Just for social media.

That was how House prosecutor Manila 3rd district Rep. Joel Chua described the objections raised by Vice President Sara Duterte’s defense lawyers over the Senate impeachment court’s decision to drop three impeachment articles against her.

Chua pointed out that Duterte's lawyers did not formally seek reconsideration of presiding officer Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero's ruling.

“See? That is why I said their complaints seem to be just for social media,” Chua said in an interview with DZRH over the weekend.

Chua was referring to the defense’s reaction to the impeachment court’s Oct. 13 decision to accept the prosecution’s withdrawal of the articles on confidential funds misuse, bribery and grave threats, leaving only the charge involving alleged unexplained wealth.

He recalled that Escudero had asked defense lawyer Sheila Sison during the hearing whether or not her manifestation questioning the prosecution's move should be treated as a motion for reconsideration (MR)

"If you listen to the proceedings of that impeachment hearing, Presiding Officer Chiz Escudero actually raised that question," Chua said.

"He asked whether the manifestations of defense lawyer Sheila should be considered a motion for reconsideration. They said they were not," he added.

Escudero subsequently clarified that the ruling on the acceptance of the withdrawal could still be challenged through the proper procedures, including an MR raised by a senator-judge.

The defense had maintained that dropping the three articles should not restrict Duterte’s ability to present evidence or answer allegations already aired before the Senate. Sison, however, clarified that the defense was not opposing the withdrawal itself.

With this, the impeachment court limited the defense’s presentation of evidence to the remaining article II and lifted the sub judice restrictions on the withdrawn articles. This would allow public discussion of the allegations subject to the court’s rules on evidence disclosure, now that three of the four articles are off the table for controverting evidence.

Chua argued that the withdrawal narrowed the issues the defense must address in the trial.

"You know, we are all lawyers here, right? For one thing, there is no need to prove something that will no longer be discussed," he said.

He further noted that the withdrawal of the three articles does not constitute a finding that the underlying allegations were false. It means these will no longer be adjudicated in the current impeachment trial under the court’s ruling.

"Of course, we studied all four articles, but we only need a conviction on one to secure a conviction," Chua said. 

 He is so focused on the motion for reconsideration that he cannot see the forest for the trees. The real issues will arise if Sara is convicted. That is when the dropping of the articles and the lowering of the vote threshold will take center stage as she appeals to the Supreme Court. And if they overturn her conviction, well that's on the prosecution who are counting their chickens before they are hatched. 

Dog and Cat Corpses Dumped In A Vacant Lot

Here is a perfectly ghoulish story just in time for Halloween. The corpses of 26 dogs and 3 cats were found unceremoniously dumped along a road in Bulacan. The twist is that all of these corpses were originally given to a pet crematorium for proper disposal. 

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/10/31/2567116/pet-crematorium-shut-down-after-26-dogs-3-cats-found-dumped-bulacan

The Bacoor City government has shut down Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium following the discovery of the remains of 26 dogs and three cats in plastic bags dumped along a roadside in San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan.

Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla said in a Facebook Reel on Saturday, October 31, that he had ordered the crematorium's closure following complaints from pet owners.

The mayor said he had also instructed the Philippine National Police to investigate the establishment's owner and pursue appropriate charges.

"Now that it has been closed, we have instructed our police to investigate so that the owner can be charged," Revilla said in the video.

The mayor said police investigators had been directed to visit the site in Bulacan where the remains of the pets were reportedly brought.

He also appealed to the complainants to help identify their pets to strengthen the case against the crematorium.

"I am asking for the help of our complainants. They must identify their dogs so that our investigation can be strengthened," Remulla said.

"We need complainants. We need evidence to present," he added.

Revilla earlier said that the crematorium's owner failed to present sufficient documents or evidence showing that pets entrusted to the establishment had been cremated.

In a Facebook post, Revilla said the city government met with owner Jonathan Legaspi and more than 30 pet owners seeking answers over the incident.

The initial investigation found that Ahjay Paws Aftercare had a valid business permit to offer cremation services in Bacoor.

The establishment also had two cremation machines, one in Bacoor and another reportedly in Caloocan City.

Legaspi acknowledged that some pets had been brought to Caloocan for cremation but could not provide sufficient documents or evidence that the procedure had been carried out, according to Revilla.

The owner also could not confirm whether the animals shown in a viral social media post were among those entrusted to the crematorium.

No CCTV footage or sufficient documentation was presented to prove that the cremations had taken place. Legaspi also could not assure pet owners that the ashes returned to them actually came from their respective pets.

The city government has since inspected the establishment and is verifying its business permits through the Business Permit and Licensing Department.

The City Legal Office also assisted in discussions and mediation with the affected pet owners, while the Philippine National Police and Barangay Kaingin-Digman helped them document their complaints.

Some pet owners have opted to seek financial compensation and damages, while others plan to file complaints with the assistance of the police.

That last sentence is very important. A grave crime has been committed and yet some of the victims would rather receive money than seek justice by holding the crematorium accountable. Maybe they don't know that financial compensation and prison time for the owner are not mutually exclusive. This issue of taking blood money over seeking justice is prevalent in Filipino society. A driver can recklessly kill with abandon and get off if he only pays enough blood money to the aggrieved party. 

The story continues.

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) on Saturday called on pet owners who were allegedly deceived by the crematorium to come forward and pursue legal action.

In a statement, PAWS said the images of the dumped dog and cat remains were shocking but noted that the incident may not directly violate the Animal Welfare Act if the animals were already dead when they were turned over to the crematorium.

Instead, the group said the alleged misrepresentation of the cremation service could constitute estafa under Article 315(2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code.

“This is a grave betrayal of trust, punishable under Article 315(2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code,” PAWS said.

“This is not merely a failure to deliver a service but constitutes Estafa by means of deceit,” the group added.

PAWS said affected pet owners paid for a service that was supposed to give their pets a dignified farewell, but their remains were reportedly dumped in a vacant lot.

Based on comments from affected pet owners, the crematorium allegedly claimed that their pets had been cremated despite knowing that this was not true, thereby inducing them to pay for the service, the group said.

PAWS urged affected pet owners to keep their receipts, cremation certificates, communications, photographs and other evidence, and seek legal assistance in filing complaints.

The group also called on the local government to thoroughly investigate the incident, check whether the crematorium had the required permits and determine whether the disposal of the remains violated sanitation, environmental and local regulations.

"The emotional harm suffered by these pet parents must not be dismissed. They entrusted the remains of beloved family members for a dignified farewell, only to be deprived of that farewell at a particularly vulnerable moment of grief," PAWS said.

The group also urged affected pet owners to unite in seeking accountability, saying each complaint supported by evidence could help establish the extent of the alleged wrongdoing and prevent other grieving families from experiencing the same.

“The trust of a grieving family is not something to be exploited,” PAWS said.

Of course seeking justice will be a lengthy process while settling for a few pesos will be easy. But if justice is not sought it only gives criminals a sense of impunity. They can get away with anything as long as they have enough money to pay.

A story on Manila Bulletin has this added detail:

What shocked investigators further was that many of the dead animals were placed in individual bags bearing names and weights, indicating they once belonged to families who may have believed their pets would be treated with dignity after death.

Among the names found on the bags were dogs Sakura, Sweet, Brandon, Dara, Dos, Ivy, Jedy, Crunch, Akira, and Jennifer, as well as cats Ira, Lucky, and Chelsea.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/10/31/dumped-like-trash-29-dogs-and-cats-found-dead-in-bulacan-lot 

These animals were bagged and tagged and yet for some reason tossed out, not just like trash, but like litter! They didn't even get the decency of being hidden in a trash bin. Instead they were dumped in a vacant lot. It's another terrible case of animal abuse and estafa. But that's nothing new in the Philippines. If only the victims will file actual cases and not settle for money.

Retards in the Government 493

It's your weekly compendium of foolishness and corruption in the Philippine government.

 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2328721/baco-oriental-mindoro-mayor-dismissed-from-office

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Oriental Mindoro served the dismissal order issued by the Office of the Ombudsman against Baco, Oriental Mindoro Mayor Allan Roldan at around 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22.

With the order served, Vice Mayor Eric Castillo has automatically assumed the position as the new municipal mayor.

DILG Oriental Mindoro Provincial Director Erick Gumabol personally served the order at Roldan’s office at the municipal hall. Roldan peacefully accepted the order and stepped down from his post.

The Ombudsman found sufficient evidence to hold Roldan liable for grave misconduct. 

In a decision issued March 6, 2026, investigators found that the mayor had conflict of interest over several infrastructure projects in the municipality, including the construction of the municipal security entrance gate, completion of the multipurpose building facade, improvements to the Rural Health Unit building, and construction of the public market in Barangay Poblacion.

Following a complaint filed by the Commission on Audit (COA) Regional Office IV-B, investigators discovered that heavy equipment used in three municipal projects was rented by contractor MIDR Construction from DelRoI Enterprises — a business owned by Roldan himself.

The probe also uncovered irregularities in project timelines: geotagged photos and social media posts showed that some projects were already underway before public bidding and contract award were officially conducted.

Roldan denied any wrongdoing, claiming the municipal government had followed procurement laws. However, the Ombudsman ruled that he had intentionally violated the law, which prohibits public officials from entering into business transactions with the government unit where they hold authority.

Aside from dismissal from service, Roldan’s penalties include cancellation of civil service eligibility, permanent disqualification from holding any public office, being barred from taking civil service examinations, and forfeiture of retirement benefits.

Baco, Oriental Mindoro Mayor Allan Roldan has been suspended from office because of grave misconduct. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2328026/coa-notes-p242-m-idled-equipment-for-still-unfinished-govt-hospitals

The Commission on Audit (COA) has flagged P242.358 million worth of idle medical equipment in 2025 mainly because recipient government hospitals and health centers were not operationally ready yet.

The agency observed the deficiencies yet again in the implementation of the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP), one of the banner programs of the Department of Health, in its 2025 annual audit report.

The program provides funding assistance for the infrastructure and equipment of government health facilities, including barangay health stations, rural health units, district and provincial hospitals, and specialty centers.

The COA noted that medical equipment worth P69.818 million was undelivered to the Center for Health Development (CHD) in Western Visayas due to “ongoing procurement processes, deferred fund releases, or project modifications.”

It also found that P172.54 million worth of equipment for several other medical facilities remained unused.

Of this, P58.067-million idle equipment was traced to the Luis Hora Memorial Regional Hospital in Bauko, Mountain Province, due to “pending operational readiness of facilities.”

Meanwhile, at Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center in Batac City, Ilocos Norte, equipment worth P32.524 million was unused because this was procured ahead of a medical facility’s completion, according to the COA.

State auditors also found that P26.699-million equipment was unused at the CHD in Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City) due to “prolonged delays in the operation of [super health centers].”

P25.998-million idle equipment was also traced to Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center in Tagbilaran City, Bohol province, due to a “pending application” with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The COA also identified unused equipment in CHDs in Ilocos Region (P16.895 million); Caraga Administrative Region (P10.792 million) and Cordillera Administrative Region (P1.564 million).

The COA recommended that the DOH ensure the readiness of facilities before procuring equipment and require CHDs to submit proof of installation, commissioning and initial use of supplies within 30 days of delivery.

The DOH has yet to respond to the Inquirer’s request for comment as of press time.

In the COA report, the DOH explained that it had issued two administrative orders establishing “stricter” guidelines on the preparation and implementation of HFEP projects.

The COA also said that “while the audit findings highlight critical implementation bottlenecks, it is essential to consider the complex, decentralized landscape in which the HFEP operates.”

It noted that the “observed delays do not signify a failure of intent, but rather reflect external systemic dependencies,” including the need for multiagency regulatory approvals and local infrastructure readiness.

“Rather than indicating an unattainable goal, these deficiencies pinpoint specific operational areas where interagency coordination can be tightened,” it said.

At the House plenary debates on the DOH’s proposed P253-billion budget for 2026 in October last year, Akbayan Rep. Chel Diokno questioned why only 200 out of the 600 health centers built under HFEP were functional.

The budget sponsor, Bataan Rep. Albert Garcia, explained that several health centers were not functioning “because of the lack of personnel and healthcare professionals who could run them.”

To address gaps, the DOH said last year it had launched a “catch-up plan” in the second half of 2025 by revising HFEP guidelines to expand implementation modes, and opening 55 Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service centers nationwide to temporarily provide primary care while idle facilities await personnel.

In a 2017 performance audit, the COA flagged deficiencies in HFEP implementation, including problems with procurement of equipment not aligned with the actual needs; undistributed equipment at DOH regional offices; and the construction of health stations on ineligible and nonworkable project sites.

The Philippine Institute for Development Studies, in a 2025 study, also found inequities in the HFEP’s grant distribution, with some local government units receiving funds despite not being among those most in need.

The Commission on Audit has flagged P242.358 million worth of idle medical equipment in 2025 mainly because recipient government hospitals and health centers were not operationally ready yet.

https://pna.gov.ph/article/ombudsman-suspends-dict-exec-for-alleged-conflict-of-interest-in-p155-b-contracts

The Office of the Ombudsman on Wednesday ordered the preventive suspension of Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Undersecretary for E-Government David L. Almirol Jr. for alleged conflict of interest involving PHP1.55-billion government contracts.

In a seven-page order, the Office of the Ombudsman found sufficient grounds to place Almirol under preventive suspension for six months without pay pending the resolution of administrative complaints of grave misconduct, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service and violation of Republic Act (RA) 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

The complaints stemmed from a report by the DICT Internal Audit Unit in June 2025 that flagged a possible conflict of interest involving the hiring of former Multisys personnel and the award of contracts to other related companies.

The Ombudsman found strong evidence supporting the administrative charges against Almirol.

It also said Almirol’s continued stay in office could prejudice the investigation, particularly given his control and custody of documents and evidence relevant to the case. 

The order is immediately executory, and the suspension shall remain in effect until the termination of the administrative adjudication.

Almirol founded Multisys Technologies Corporation (Multisys) in 2010 and served as president and chief executive officer for more than a decade, following his appointment as DICT Undersecretary for E-Government in August 2022.

Almirol would later lead the development and rollout of the eGovPH Super App.

Further investigation of the Office of the Ombudsman revealed that at least eight DICT contracts were awarded to companies with financial relationships with Multisys. 

From November 2023 to May 2025, the DICT awarded eight eGov-related contracts to several related companies “totaling to about PHP1.55 billion”. 

These contracts covered information and communications technology consultancy, e-government application deployment, web-based messaging services, cloud infrastructure, data center colocation and software subscriptions.

Multisys' audited financial statements report revenue from the other companies “for managed services of PHP110.8 million in 2023 and PHP514.6 million in 2024”.

Records also showed that Almirol did not divest immediately after his appointment in the DICT.

“Multisys' General Information Sheet (GIS) notarized on 27 October 2022 and received by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on 2 November 2022 showed that respondent was still listed as a stockholder of Multisys holding 49.21 percent of the stocks,” the order noted.

This was beyond the 60-day period from his assumption of office within which he was required to divest his business interests under Section 9 of RA 6713.

Almirol was removed from the list of Multisys stockholders only in a subsequent GIS notarized on Nov. 18, 2022 and received by the SEC three days later.

Department of Information and Communications Technology Undersecretary for E-Government David L. Almirol Jr. has been suspended for alleged conflict of interest involving PHP1.55-billion government contracts.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2327998/p397-m-duplicate-payments-found-in-dswd-ayuda-scheme

The Commission on Audit (COA) said it found P397.45 million worth of “duplicate, multiple and overlapping” payments to beneficiaries of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

In its 2025 annual audit report, the COA noted that some beneficiaries of the AICS program were granted multiple assistance that violated the allowable frequency of payments, while others were able to avail of similar benefits under both the AICS and Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (Akap).

The COA said these issues were caused by “deficiencies in data integrity, beneficiary validation and assessment processes, deduplication measures, and accountability controls, thereby increasing the risk of improper payment of financial assistance.”

The multiple and overlapping payments were traced to the DSWD’s central office as well as its field offices in the National Capital Region (NCR), Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas and Davao region.

According to the report, there were P31.357 million worth of duplicate or multiple payments in the AICS program.

Of that amount, P18.158 million were from the DSWD field office in Cagayan Valley, which was due to “duplicate and multiple payments” to 5,560 AICS beneficiaries as well as “overpayments” of assistance to 393,544 beneficiaries.

The COA also flagged overlapping claims of AICS and Akap benefits involving P366.096 million worth of payments.

In the DSWD’s NCR office alone, the state auditor noted that there were 46,633 people who received financial assistance from both programs within the same three-month period, with disbursements amounting to P337.968 million.

According to the COA, such deficiencies allow beneficiaries to “receive duplicate or inappropriate aid within a limited period, compromising fair resources distribution, reducing operational efficiency and accountability, and heightening the risk of unnoticed duplicate disbursements.”

As part of its recommendations, the state auditor urged the agency to ensure the “diligent” screening, validation, and assessment of its beneficiaries, while also monitoring those who avail of multiple benefits.

Asked to comment on the report, DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao clarified in a Viber message to the Inquirer that beneficiaries may avail of multiple assistance or receive payments from both AICS and Akap “as long as they cover distinct needs.”

She noted, for example, that a beneficiary may receive medical assistance under AICS combined with food assistance from Akap. Should his or her family member pass away, the beneficiary may even qualify for burial assistance.

“DSWD clarifies that no government funds were wasted and that the observations raised by COA stem primarily from a difference in the interpretation of program guidelines, as well as administrative encoding variations during emergency aid distributions,” Dumlao said.

The Commission on Audit  said it found P397.45 million worth of “duplicate, multiple and overlapping” payments to beneficiaries of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program under the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2026/10/23/2565135/city-exec-dismissed-over-ghost-procurement

The city treasurer of Dagupan in Pangasinan has been dismissed from her post in connection with the non-delivery of two motorized boats procured by the city government.

Romelita Alcantara was found liable for grave misconduct for releasing P999,750 in public funds as payment for the undelivered boats, according to the Office of the Ombudsman.

Aside from dismissal, the ombudsman canceled the civil service eligibility of Alcantara, forfeited her retirement benefits, disqualified her from holding public office and barred her from taking civil service examinations.

The city treasurer of Dagupan Romelita Alcantara has been dismissed for grave misconduct. 

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2026/10/23/2565136/2-pcg-men-killed-cotabato-ambush

Two personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) were killed while their superior survived following an ambush by unidentified men in this city yesterday afternoon.

Reniel Agpalo and Louther Vitor were declared dead on arrival at the Cotabato Regional Medical Center due to multiple gunshot wounds.

The PCG said one of the fatalities holds the rank of seaman second class while the other was an apprentice seaman.

Their superior, Lt. Cmdr. John Paul Cabarrubias, was not harmed in the attack, which occurred near a station of the PCG.

Reports showed the PCG men were in a Toyota Innova on their way to the station when unidentified armed men waylaid them along Roman Vilo street.

The attack sparked a commotion, which provided the assailants a chance to escape.

After the incident, Cabarrubias went to the Cotabato City police station to assist in the investigation.

Two personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard have been assassinated. 

 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2328755/govt-worker-sued-over-p19000-cash-advance

The Office of the Ombudsman has called on government officials to properly liquidate any cash advance as failure to do so constitutes a violation of the Revised Penal Code.

It issued the reminder following the filing of a case against an employee of the Bogo Water District in Cebu accused of failing to liquidate a cash advance of P19,822.50.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Ombudsman said the case stemmed from a complaint filed by Bogo Water District General Manager Jose Brainard Mayol against the section head designate of the human resources management office, Kenneth Robert Obial Metante.

Mayol filed the complaint after the Commission on Audit (COA) issued an audit observation memorandum flagging more than P2.7 million worth of cash advances that were granted to water district employees which remain unliquidated as of the end of 2023.

Part of the cash advances were received by Metante in 2022 for a tree-planting activity, the Ombudsman noted.

In his complaint, Mayol alleged that Metante failed to properly account for and liquidate the funds.

The Ombudsman said it found “sufficient evidence” against Metante “for failure to render accounts,” noting that the cash advance also lacked a request for quotation.

It noted that Metante failed to show proof of liquidation although three years had passed since.

Citing COA Circular No. 2012-004, the Ombudsman stressed that “cash advances for field operating expenses, including expenditures for special projects such as tree-planting activities, are subject to liquidation requirements.”

Aside from Metante, Mayol had also filed a complaint against the former general manager of the Bogo Water District, Houdini Ancajas Jumao-as, who received a cash advance of over P222,000 for an overseas trip for training.

However, the Ombudsman said it dismissed the complaint against Jumao-as due to “insufficient evidence,” after the former general manager presented audit reports supporting his compliance with liquidation requirements.

“[G]overnment officials and employees entrusted with public funds are responsible for ensuring that cash advances are properly documented, accounted for, and liquidated within the prescribed period,” the Ombudsman said.

It also urged government agencies to “regularly monitor outstanding cash advances and ensure compliance with COA rules to avoid audit findings and possible administrative or criminal liability.”

“[F]ailure by an accountable officer to render accounts under circumstances covered by Article 218 of the Revised Penal Code may give rise to criminal liability,” it added.

A Bogo Water District employee in Cebu, Kenneth Robert Obial Metante, is being charged by the Ombudsman with failure to liquidate a ₱19,822.50 cash advance under Article 218 of the Revised Penal Code.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2328970/awol-cop-nabbed-in-cagayan-de-oro-drug-bust

A policeman who went absent without leave, previously flagged for illegal drug use, was arrested along with a civilian in a buy-bust operation here yesterday afternoon.

In an emailed advisory, the Police Regional Office-10 (PRO-10) said the police corporal, categorized as a high-value target, was apprehended at 3:19 p.m. on October 22, inside an NHA housing site in Barangay Kauswagan. 

Anti-narcotics operatives seized 0.64 grams of suspected shabu (crystal meth) valued at P4,352.Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr., PRO-10 director, said the corporal’s arrest underscores the regional command’s aggressive internal cleansing and integrity monitoring efforts.

“No one is above the law, and the uniform is never a shield against wrongdoing or accountability,” said Babagay in a statement.

The erring officer had been reassigned to the Regional Personnel Holding and Accounting Section on October 2 after testing positive for shabu and marijuana during a random drug screening on September 21.

Before the drug bust, Maj. Joann Navarro, PRO-10 spokesperson, told the Inquirer Friday that the officer was already facing a pre-charge investigation for grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer. 

He is also facing a separate administrative case for grave neglect of duty due to his prolonged, unauthorized absence.“We will never tolerate wrongdoing within [our] ranks. 

He will be held accountable for his actions and face the appropriate administrative and criminal proceedings in accordance with the law,” Navarro said.

An AWOL cop has been busted for drugs. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2329509/soldier-linked-to-killing-of-cotabato-village-execs-surrenders

The Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) facilitated on Saturday, Oct. 24, the surrender of a soldier suspected of killing two village officials in Kabacan, Cotabato, on Oct. 21, the military said.

Brig. Gen. Edgar Catu, the newly installed 6ID commander, identified the suspect as Cpl. Virgilio D. Magbiray Jr., who is assigned to the Army’s 90th Infantry Battalion.

Police identified Magbiray as the primary suspect in the killing of brothers Patacpan Maganaka, village councilor, and Ibrahim Maganaka, village bookkeeper in Barangay Lower Paatan, Kabacan.

Maj. Greg Palalay, deputy police chief of Kabacan, said the brothers were managing a village disco event when a commotion broke out at around 1 a.m. on Oct. 21.

The incident reportedly stemmed from the alleged stoning of the dance floor. The brothers intervened, but an altercation allegedly ensued between them and Magbiray, who reportedly shot the victims with a 9mm pistol.

Following the surrender, Lt. Col. Loqui O. Marco, commanding officer of the 90th Infantry Battalion, presented Magbiray to Brig. Gen. Gremel B. Brual, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade.

Catu then directed the soldier’s turnover to the Kabacan Municipal Police Station for appropriate legal proceedings.

“The law applies equally to everyone, regardless of rank or position, and anyone found guilty of violating the law must be held accountable in accordance with due process,” Catu said.

He added that the 6ID remains committed to upholding the rule of law, ensuring accountability, and respecting the constitutional rights of every individual.

Magbiray also surrendered the firearm allegedly used. He is now under police custody pending appropriate legal proceedings.

A soldier suspected of killing two village officials has been arrested. 

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/10/25/2565627/ombudsman-charges-6-dpwh-personnel-7-others-over-alleged-gensan-right-way-scam

The Office of the Ombudsman has filed malversation and graft charges before the Sandiganbayan against six Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region XII personnel over their alleged involvement in a P491.9-million road right-of-way scam in General Santos City.

In a statement on Sunday, October 25, the Ombudsman said that it found prima facie evidence, with reasonable certainty of conviction, against former DPWH Region XII Regional Director Subair Saro Diron, former Assistant Regional Director Laureano Suan Jr. and four other DPWH employees. 

According to the Ombudsman, the four other employees are the following:

• Tomas Rodriguez
• David Padlan
• Paisal Padate
• Ansare Busran

Seven private individuals implicated in the fraudulent scheme were also indicted.

The anti-graft agency filed 18 counts of Malversation of Public Funds or Property through Falsification of Public Documents under Article 217 in relation to Article 171 of the Revised Penal Code, along with 18 counts of violating Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

According to a 2017 affidavit executed by whistleblower Roberto Catapang Jr., a syndicate colluded with public officials to obtain government funds for land acquisitions by fabricating and submitting falsified land documents.

Following approvals by the DPWH Region XII technical working group, the government disbursed a total of P491,931,120.20 to claimants who were later found to have submitted fraudulent ownership claims.

Investigators from the National Bureau of Investigation also found that the respondents unlawfully applied a 2009 property appraisal rate of P3,500 per square meter to calculate compensation for land expropriated by the government in the early 1990s, resulting in heavily inflated right-of-way claims.

In a related administrative ruling, the Ombudsman ordered the immediate dismissal of former DPWH Region XII Legal Officer Ansare Mariga Busran  from military or government service, with accessory penalties including the forfeiture of retirement benefits and perpetual disqualification from holding public office.

The Ombudsman filed graft and malversation charges against six DPWH-12 personnel over a P491.9-million General Santos road scam.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/10/26/pasig-police-condemn-own-officer-over-gun-threat

The Pasig City Police condemned one of its personnel after he was arrested for allegedly pointing a firearm at a woman and her family inside their vehicle at a gasoline station in Barangay Pinagbuhatan on Sunday night, Oct. 25, and vowed to pursue criminal and administrative charges against him.

The Pasig City Police said criminal and administrative charges would be filed against the arrested officer, who is now in the station’s custody.

Initial investigation showed that the police personnel allegedly approached the complainant and her family while they were inside their vehicle at a gasoline station along Sandoval Road and pointed a firearm in their direction.

The woman recorded the incident on her mobile phone and reported it to the Pinagbuhatan Police Sub-Station. After reviewing the video, police identified the suspect as a member of the Philippine National Police and launched follow-up operations that led to his arrest and the recovery of the firearm allegedly used in the incident.

The Pasig City Police Station said it strongly condemned the act, saying that police officers are expected to uphold the law, exercise restraint and observe discipline, professionalism and accountability.

“Misconduct and abuse and misuse of authority are never tolerated in the organization,” the statement read.

Police said the case would be handled in accordance with existing laws, rules and regulations, including administrative procedures, without prejudging the outcome of the criminal proceedings.

The station also urged the public to report crimes involving anyone, including police personnel, assuring residents that its officers would respond to complaints.

The incident is under investigation, with the arrested officer facing criminal and administrative proceedings.

A cop has been arrested for pointing a firearm at a woman and her family inside their vehicle at a gasoline station.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2330781/barangay-councilor-nabbed-after-shabu-found-at-leyte-checkpoint

Police arrested a 59-year-old barangay councilor from Barugo, Leyte, after officers discovered two sachets of suspected “shabu” (crystal meth) during a checkpoint operation in Barangay Cayare, San Miguel, Leyte, on Monday.

Police stopped the suspect, identified only by the alias “Aldo,” for allegedly riding a motorcycle without a helmet, according to the San Miguel Municipal Police Station.

Police said the suspected illegal drugs fell to the ground when the councilor presented his driver’s license, prompting officers to notice and recover the sachets.

The two sachets contained an estimated 0.48 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of P3,264 based on the Dangerous Drugs Board’s valuation.

Authorities said the suspect was among the newly identified individuals allegedly involved in illegal drug activities.

The suspect and the seized evidence were brought to the San Miguel police station for documentation and the filing of charges for alleged violation of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

The operation was part of the Police Regional Office 8’s intensified anti-illegal drugs campaign under its regional director, Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño.

Cardiño commended the operating personnel for their vigilance and emphasized the role of checkpoints in detecting illegal activities and maintaining public safety.

“We will continue conducting proactive police operations and hold those who violate the law accountable, regardless of their position in the community,” Cardiño said.

He also urged the public to respect the law and cooperate with authorities, particularly during checkpoint operations, to help maintain peace and order throughout Eastern Visayas.

A barangay councilor has been arrested on drug charges.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/10/28/cebu-city-mayor-fined-over-night-market-operation

Cebu City Mayor Nestor Dionson Archival Sr. was sanctioned by the Office of the Ombudsman for alleged irregularities in the operation of the Colon Street Night Market last year.

The administrative case was for simple neglect of duty and the Ombudsman ordered Archival to pay a fine equivalent to his one month’s basic salary as the city mayor for failing to exercise due diligence in ensuring compliance with the requirements governing the operation of the night market.

The 21-page decision also carried a stern warning that a repetition of the same omission would be dealt with more severely.

Bu the same decision dismissed the charges of Grave Misconduct and Gross Neglect of Duty, saying the pieces of evidence presented are insufficient to determine unlawful conduct, recklessness, or a willful and flagrant refusal to perform official responsibilities.  

The case stemmed from a complaint filed by Pastor Jun Alcover Jr. said that the operation of the might market was allowed to operate under a special permit issued by the Cebu City Government to a private organizer.

The complaint alleged that the private organizer was authorized to screen vendors, determine stall rental rates, collect fees, and retain the proceeds from the night market.

Alcover further alleged that while the special permit covered only approximately 100 vendors, more than 600 sellers were allowed to participate in the night market which allegedly continued its operations beyond the validity of the permit.

In its findings, the Ombudsman noted that Colon Street is a national road, which makes coordination with the  Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) necessary before allowing the night market to operate.

The decision particularly cited the failure to coordinate with the DPWH and the issuance of permits retroactively for the night market operation, "His failure to address the noted operational requirements is a reflection of carelessness and lack of due diligence in relation to the performance of his official duties.”

The Ombudsman emphasized that Archival, as local chief executive, was responsible for ensuring that the night market complied with applicable laws and operational requirements.

"It has long been settled that public office is a public trust demanding general accountability. Being the Local Chief Executive of Cebu City, respondent has the expressed duty to enforce all laws and ordinances relative to the governance of the city," the decision stated.

“While it may be argued that (he) relied in good faith upon his subordinates… he remains ultimately responsible in ensuring compliance with statutory obligations,” the ruling added.

Last year’s Colon Street Night Market operations landed Cebu City Mayor Nestor Dionson Archival Sr. in hot water with the Office of the Ombudsman, which imposed sanctions over alleged irregularities.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2332137/2-army-soldiers-arrested-over-north-cotabato-shooting

Two Philippine Army soldiers were arrested after allegedly shooting a 23-year-old man traveling from Davao City to Cotabato City in Pigcawayan, North Cotabato, before dawn Thursday, police said.The suspects, both members of the Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion and residents of Midsayap, North Cotabato, were arrested following a pursuit operation shortly after the incident at around 12:30 a.m. on Thursday.

According to a police report, the victim, identified only as alias Dats, 23, of Cotabato City, flagged down a police team conducting a mobile checkpoint in Barangay South Manuangan after he was shot.

Initial investigation showed that Dats was driving his gray Yamaha NMAX motorcycle toward Cotabato City when he was allegedly chased and shot by the two soldiers.He sustained a gunshot wound to his left arm, with the bullet exiting through his back.Police relayed the incident to local authorities and initiated a lockdown across the municipality’s barangays.

Police launched a pursuit operation that led to the interception and arrest of the suspects in Barangay Presbitero, Pigcawayan, as they sped toward Midsayap.Authorities recovered two loaded .45-caliber pistols from the suspects. One was an M1911A1 pistol with seven rounds of ammunition, while the other was a Colt MK IV Series 80 pistol with eight rounds.Police also seized a red-and-black Honda RS150 motorcycle and three cellphones.The spot report said the suspects failed to present legal documents or licenses authorizing them to possess the firearms. Dats also positively identified them as the men who allegedly shot him.Dats is being treated at Pesante Hospital in Libungan, Cotabato, while the two suspects remain detained at the Pigcawayan Municipal Police Station custodial facility pending the filing of appropriate charges.Police are still investigating the motive for the shooting.

Two soldiers have been arrested for shooting a man. 

Coronavirus Lockdown: But First Coffee, Pandemic Thrusts, and More!

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

The latest SWS survey shows that 22.6% of Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger in September 2026, up from 20.3% in June. This figure exceeds the 21.1% average recorded during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. 

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/business/2026/10/14/philippine-hunger-rate-surges-surpasses-pandemic-peak-survey-1355

The proportion of Filipino families experiencing involuntary hunger rose to 22.6 percent in September, surpassing levels recorded during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic as self-rated poverty deepened, according to the latest survey from an independent polling agency.

The Social Weather Stations (SWS) said the third-quarter survey represents a 2.3 percentage point increase from 20.3 percent in June. It also tops the 20.2 percent national average recorded in 2025 and exceeds the record-high average of 21.1 percent logged in 2020 during pandemic lockdowns.

According to the survey of 1,500 adults conducted nationwide from September 21 to 27, 16.2 percent of families experienced "moderate hunger"—defined as going without food once or a few times over the preceding three months.

Meanwhile, "severe hunger"—going hungry often or always—rose to 6.4 percent, up nearly two points from 4.5 percent in June.

SWS attributed the overall national surge primarily to sharp spikes in Metro Manila and Luzon.

Hunger in Metro Manila jumped six percentage points to 27 percent, making it the most affected region in the country. In Luzon outside the capital, hunger surged 6.3 points to 23.6 percent.

By contrast, hunger in the central Visayas region dropped 6.3 points to 16.0 percent, while remaining virtually steady in southern Mindanao at 23.7 percent.

The survey showed a concurrent swell in self-rated poverty across the country. Fifty-five percent of Filipino families rated themselves as poor in September, up six points from June, while self-rated food poverty jumped eight points to 44 percent.

Among families self-identifying as poor, total hunger rose to 27.9 percent from 24.5 percent in June. Among those identifying as food-poor, hunger climbed to 33.2 percent from 29.9 percent.

SWS noted that the national increase was driven both by a higher number of families falling into self-rated poverty and deepening hunger within those impoverished groups.

The non-commissioned face-to-face survey carried a national margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points.

Severe hunger also rose sharply to 6.4%, while moderate hunger stood at 16.2%. The increase was driven mainly by higher rates in Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon, highlighting that food insecurity has now surpassed pandemic-era levels.

The Philippine Department of Health and the World Health Organization met to advance negotiations on a global pandemic agreement. Officials focused on the Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing annex meant to improve future emergency response.

https://tribune.net.ph/2026/10/22/doh-who-discuss-pandemic-thrusts

The Philippines and the World Health Organization (WHO) discussed negotiations on an international pandemic agreement, including provisions on pathogen access and benefit-sharing, as part of efforts to strengthen preparedness for future health emergencies.

Department of Health (DoH) Acting Secretary Edwin Mercado and WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus met during a dialogue at the WHO Western Pacific Office on Monday, 19 October.

Ghebreyesus described the meeting as fruitful, saying they discussed Philippine investments in pandemic preparedness, among other matters.

“We also discussed the importance of finalising the negotiations on Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing annex of the Pandemic Agreement,” Ghebreyesus said.

The WHO said the agreement aims to establish a legally binding international framework for pandemic prevention, preparedness and response. Once negotiations are completed, it will be presented to countries for signing and ratification.

The DoH said the dialogue also covered equitable access to medical supplies through regional stockpiles and pooled procurement, as well as stronger regulatory systems.

The officials also discussed strengthening Universal Health Care and national health emergency preparedness, advancing disease control and reaching zero-dose children, improving hypertension, tobacco and mental health programs, and expanding international health partnerships and cooperation.

“This dialogue reaffirms the Philippines’ commitment to building an inclusive and globally aligned health system for every Filipino,” the department said.

They also discussed regional stockpiles, pooled procurement of medical supplies, and stronger national preparedness systems. The talks reaffirmed the country’s commitment to better pandemic readiness and equitable access to health resources.

When the COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread career uncertainty, Anna Magalona-Go revived a coffee business idea she had previously discussed with a friend in 2019. Starting small with just ₱6,000 in capital, she launched the home-based online café "But First, Coffee" to offer affordable, quality drinks.

https://tribune.net.ph/2026/10/25/anna-magalona-gos-story-but-first-coffee

For many people, the day does not truly begin until they have had their first cup of coffee. It is a familiar routine that has also inspired a business name built around the same idea: But First, Coffee. When Anna Magalona-Go launched the business in 2020, she was not trying to build a nationwide coffee brand. She wanted to start a business of her own, something she had dreamed of since childhood. With just P6,000 in capital, she took a chance on an idea that would eventually grow into a brand with 200 branches across the Philippines.

Originally from Bacolod City, Magalona-Go studied Marketing Management at the University of St. La Salle. While she had always wanted to become an entrepreneur, she initially pursued a corporate career after moving to Manila. She worked in an auditing firm, moved into the technology industry, and later joined a fintech company. Each job exposed her to different responsibilities, experiences she would later draw on when managing her own business.

When the pandemic happened, Magalona-Go faced uncertainty about her career. Eventually, she returned to a business idea she had discussed with a friend in 2019. When the opportunity finally came, she decided to move forward, even if it meant starting small.

“I’ll take the risk,” she recalled telling her friend, who was welcome to join whenever they were ready. Their priorities eventually changed, and she continued pursuing the business on her own.

Starting as a home-based online café, But First, Coffee faced the challenge of attracting customers in a market already filled with coffee shops. She saw an opportunity to offer what she felt was missing: Coffee that was both affordable and good quality. Drawing from her own experience as a young professional in Makati, she wanted customers to enjoy good coffee without spending too much.

To stand out, she offered affordable drinks with free delivery, promoted the business across social media platforms, and accepted thinner profit margins to make the introductory offer possible.

With no formal barista training or background in the food and beverage industry, she turned to Google to develop her initial recipes, asking friends and family to taste-test them. As sales grew, her P6,000 capital gradually increased to P8,000, P12,000 and P18,000. She eventually opened a small cart below the apartment where the online business operated, creating opportunities for the brand to expand.

Franchising became the next major step. As more people expressed interest in opening their own But First, Coffee outlets, she recognized the potential to scale beyond what she could manage alone. The business grew from a one-person operation into a company employing nearly 200 people, with around 200 branches nationwide at the time of the interview. Most outlets were franchised, while approximately 30 were company-owned.

But growth also changed the way she had to run the business. What initially relied on instinct, experimentation, and aesthetics needed more structure as the number of outlets increased. She began prioritizing organized teams, standardized processes, automation, and data-driven decisions to make expansion sustainable.

The scale of the business also brought challenges she had not necessarily anticipated, particularly in managing people, coordinating with suppliers and other business partners, and earning respect as a young woman in leadership. She described these experiences as humbling, teaching her to choose her battles and focus on doing what she believes is right.

From P6,000 to a nationwide presence, Magalona-Go’s journey shows that building a business takes more than a good idea. It takes the courage to begin, the resourcefulness to make the most of limited means, and the discipline to adapt as the business grows. For her, it all began with a familiar phrase and a simple idea: But First, Coffee.

Utilizing Google to develop recipes and social media for promotion, she successfully turned the venture into a thriving nationwide brand with roughly 200 branches. 

Lyle Villarmino and Dresh Santos, whose romance originally blossomed during the COVID-19 pandemic after meeting through a mutual friend, officially tied the knot on October 10, 2026. Having supported each other through deep personal losses, including the passing of their respective parents, the couple built a resilient bond founded on shared patience and healing. 

https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2026/10/26/2565652/pandemic-love-story-culminates-union

Oct. 10, 2026, or 10-10-26, proved to be an auspicious date for Lyle Villarmino and Dresh Santos as they exchanged wedding vows at the Shrine of St. Therese of the Child Jesus. The celebration continued with an elegant reception at the Diplomatic Hall of the Manila Marriott Hotel, Newport World Resorts, where 130 guests gathered to celebrate the couple’s union.

Lyle and Dresh’s love story began during the pandemic, when a mutual friend introduced them. What started as casual conversations on Facebook Messenger gradually blossomed into something more as restrictions eased and they began meeting in person. They became exclusive in September 2020 and officially became a couple on Oct. 10 (10-10) of the same year. Their first proper date followed on Valentine’s Day 2021.

On Feb. 1, 2025, Lyle orchestrated a surprise proposal at Estancia de Lorenzo in Marikina City. He invited both families under the pretext of celebrating his brother’s upcoming birthday on Feb. 6. While Lyle’s sister-in-law, Danica, distracted Dresh by asking her to accompany her to the restroom, Lyle slipped away to prepare for the big moment.

When he finally popped the question, Dresh was thrilled. The proposal was everything she had dreamed of, made even more special by the ring she had always hoped for. It was a heartfelt gesture that reflected how well Lyle knew her and how attentively he listened to her wishes.

For Dresh, one of Lyle’s most endearing qualities is his sense of humor. She also treasures the way he cares for her and makes her family feel equally valued. Lyle, meanwhile, describes Dresh as loving, affectionate and caring. She expresses her love through selfless acts of service and cherishes being close to the people who matter most to her.

Beyond their shared joys, Lyle and Dresh have also found strength in one another through life’s most difficult moments. Both have experienced the loss of a parent: Dresh lost her mother, Hazel Villaflor, a dear friend of mine who passed away two years ago, while Lyle lost his father, Gerrico Villarmino.

Having known Hazel personally, I find it especially touching that Dresh has found in Lyle a partner who understands her grief and gives her the space to heal in her own time. Rather than rushing each other to move on, they learned to respect one another’s individual grieving processes. They offered comfort, a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on, gently encouraging each other to find hope even on the darkest days. They also learned to be patient when grief unexpectedly resurfaced.

In each other, they found not only a life partner but also someone who understood the weight of loss and the importance of allowing love and healing to unfold in their own time.

On her wedding day, Dresh walked down the aisle in a custom-made, fairy-tale-inspired gown by renowned designer Leo Almodal. Adorned with Swarovski crystals and shimmering embellishments, the gown fulfilled her dream of looking and feeling like a princess.

Leo was a particularly meaningful choice for Dresh, as her late mother had chosen him, believing in her heart that her daughter would one day marry Lyle. The gown thus carried with it a touching reminder of the mother whose love remained part of the celebration.

As guests gathered at the foyer of the Diplomatic Hall, they enjoyed an assortment of finger foods and cocktails, along with offerings from Annitta Café and The Cheese Florist. For a memorable take-home gift, guests could choose their own perfume from Florescent PH.

The reception hall offered a spectacular welcome. A canopy of pink and lilac blooms, exquisitely styled by renowned event designer Gideon Hermosa, transformed the venue into a dreamy floral haven. Hydrangeas, pink roses and white orchids adorned the tables, creating an atmosphere of romance and understated grandeur.

The inspiration was Paris at night, a setting that had captured the couple’s hearts during a family trip with Dresh’s family. Drawing on Dresh’s favorite color, purple, Gideon recreated the enchanting mood of the City of Light, complete with the dreamy floral arrangements that have become a signature of his work.

The Manila String Machine provided the evening’s musical accompaniment as host Issa Litton welcomed the guests. Three long, wavy banquet tables accommodated the attendees, setting the stage for an intimate evening of fine dining and heartfelt celebration.

The dinner began with Atlantic Salmon Terzetto, featuring miso-cured salmon, horseradish crème, lumpfish caviar, smoked chives mousse in saffron crepe, salmon tartare, tomato glaze, pumpernickel crumbs, Granny Smith apples and tarragon aioli.

A hearty shrimp bisque with herb cream cheese crumble followed. For the main courses, guests enjoyed oven-baked Australian barramundi fillet served with carrot and potato mousseline, green asparagus and lemon butter sauce. Raspberry sorbet provided a refreshing interlude before the centerpiece dish: pan-fried US tenderloin prepared scampi-style in duck fat, accompanied by scallops, pea purée, layered potato casserole and fresh garden vegetables. Cheesecake brûlée provided a sweet finale to the sumptuous meal.

As dinner was served, guests watched a video presentation chronicling Lyle and Dresh’s journey from childhood to their engagement. Heartfelt tributes followed from the best man, Keil Villarmino, Lyle’s brother; matron of honor Loisel Canada, Dresh’s sister; and maid of honor Daphnie Villaflor, Dresh’s cousin.

The evening was made even more memorable by a special performance from Amiel Sol, a good friend of the groom. He serenaded the newlyweds and their guests with his hit songs Sa Bawat Sandali and Nahanap Kita, adding another romantic touch to the celebration.

It was a beautiful evening celebrating not only the union of two people but also the love, patience and understanding that had brought them to this moment. May Lyle and Dresh’s marriage be filled with enduring love, abundant happiness, and the blessings of a beautiful, healthy, and happy family in the years to come.

Lyle proposed with a carefully planned surprise in February 2025, leading up to their grand Paris-themed wedding celebration at Newport World Resorts. Surrounded by family and friends, the ceremony beautifully honored both their journey together and the memory of Dresh’s late mother.