Insurgency: Only 9 Rebels Remain Active In Panay

According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines a grand total of 1,349 NPA members and supporters have been neutralized between January 1st and October 8th. That is 569 more than the last estimate of 780 NPA rebels remaining and the year is not even finished. 

https://pna.gov.ph/article/13k-reds-supporters-neutralized-from-jan-to-early-october

A total of 1,349 New People's Army (NPA) members and supporters were neutralized in various government operations from Jan. 1 to Oct. 8, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced on Tuesday.

AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad, in a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, said 1,222 of these individuals surrendered, 48 were arrested, and 79 were killed in military operations. 

"Neutralized" is a military term that refers to the surrender, capture, or killing of enemy troops or combatants.

During the same period, about 804 firearms were either seized or surrendered, along with 306 anti-personnel mines and 54 NPA encampments, Trinidad said.

In 2025, the military neutralized an estimated 2,018 NPA and its supporters, seized or received through surrender 1,134 firearms and 531 anti-personnel mines, and captured a total of 149 NPA encampments. 

How do they account for this discrepancy? What is the estimated number of NPA rebels and mere supporters that remain fighting for the insurgency? Why don't they break down the number 1,349 into proper categories of rebels and supporters? Without that breakdown that number is useless and tells the public nothing about the true state of the insurgency. Either 2025's estimate was severely understated or the majority of those neutralized are not actual rebels. 

According to the Army only 9 NPA rebels remain on the whole of Panay Island. 

https://www.panaynews.net/only-9-npa-rebels-remain-active-in-panay-army-ex-rebels-surrender-leads-to-discovery-of-hidden-arms-cache-in-iloilo/

The New People’s Army (NPA) in Panay Island has reportedly dwindled to just nine active members amid internal divisions and leadership problems, the Philippine Army disclosed following the surrender of a former rebel who led government troops to a hidden arms cache in Leon, Iloilo.

Lieutenant Colonel Jekyll Julian D. Dulawan, commanding officer of the Philippine Army’s 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion (61IB), said information gathered from former rebels suggested that the remaining communist insurgents were struggling to maintain their ranks and organizational leadership.

“They are reportedly experiencing internal divisions and leadership challenges, with an estimated strength of only nine active NPA,” Dulawan said.

The disclosure came as the military reported another breakthrough in its counterinsurgency campaign following the surrender of alias “Dandan,” 47, a former finance and logistics officer of the dismantled Puregold Platoon under the Southern Panay Front of the Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay.

“Dandan” surrendered to the 61IB at Camp Monteclaro in Barangay Igtuba, Miag-ao, Iloilo, around 3 p.m. on October 11.

He turned over a 12-gauge Akkar Charles Daly shotgun with a defaced serial number and three live cartridges.

More significantly, the former rebel disclosed the location of a concealed arms cache in Barangay Bucari, Leon, enabling government troops to recover ammunition magazines and an explosive device the following day, October 12.

The recovered materials included 45 magazines for M16 rifles, a Type C anti-personnel mine or improvised explosive device (IED), and a detonator.

In Northern Samar there are allegedly only 40 NPA rebels remaining. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2324487/army-intensifies-pursuit-against-npa-rebels-in-n-samar

The military has intensified operations against an estimated 40 remaining members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Northern Samar following reports from residents of armed rebels’ presence and alleged gatherings in mountainous communities, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

The intensified campaign comes amid continuing efforts by government forces to end the communist insurgency in Eastern Visayas, with Northern Samar identified by the military as the region’s last stronghold of the communist movement.

The latest operations followed a series of encounters between government troops and NPA members in Las Navas town earlier this month.

The military reported encounters in Barangay Poponton on Oct. 4 and Barangay Palanas on Oct. 8, before another firefight erupted in the forested portion of Barangay Sag-od at around 5:34 p.m. on Oct. 13.

The exchange of gunfire lasted approximately 10 minutes before the armed group withdrew, according to the military.

On Oct. 14, soldiers continued their pursuit of the rebels, supported by military helicopters, in areas believed to have been used as escape routes by the armed group.

The operations were also prompted by reports from residents that NPA members had allegedly been extorting money from farmers and forcing community members to buy food for the group.

Brig. Gen. Carmelito Pangatungan, commander of the Army’s 803rd Infantry Brigade, based in the provincial capital of Catarman, said the military remained committed to protecting communities and maintaining peace and security in the province.

“Our soldiers will not stop pursuing the remaining armed members of the NPA who continue to disrupt communities and exploit our people. We will not allow fear and violence to prevail again or hinder programs that will bring development to our communities,” Pangatungan said.

He said the military campaign forms part of broader efforts to end the insurgency in Northern Samar, alongside cooperation with local government units to deliver basic services and livelihood opportunities to communities affected by the prolonged conflict.

The military has emphasized that addressing the insurgency requires not only security operations but also sustained government assistance to remote communities, where limited access to basic services and economic opportunities can complicate peace and development efforts.

Pangatungan thanked residents who have cooperated with authorities and urged the remaining NPA members to abandon the armed struggle and return to the fold of the law.

“As long as it is not too late, choose peace, safety and the opportunity to live a decent life with your families. Returning to the fold of the law is a way to reunite with your loved ones and begin a more peaceful future,” he said. 

How can anyone trust those low numbers when the national total of neutralized persons has already surpassed the previous nationwide rebel estimate? The gap between the inflated national neutralization figures and these extremely low residual estimates only underscores how little clarity the public is being given about actual fighting strength versus peripheral supporters.

The NTF-ELCAC claims the implementation of government development programs has contributed significantly to the decline of the insurgency. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2320809/receding-insurgency-due-to-ongoing-govt-devt-programs-ntf-elcac

Ongoing development programs by the government in communities formerly affected by armed conflict are among the reasons why the insurgents are steadily losing influence in the countryside.

This was emphasized by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) in a news release Friday, and reported that around 28,415 villages in 60 provinces nationwide are now under Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) declarations.

“For NTF-Elcac, the 28,415 SIPS barangays across 60 provinces represent a stark measure of how much ground the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front) armed insurgency has lost,” it said.

The task force said most of the villages, at around 21,614, “are already part of nine entire regions under SIPS, while another 6,801 belong to SIPS provinces in regions moving toward the same goal.”

With the increase in SIPS, the task force said “the challenge now is to ensure that peace, development and democratic governance permanently occupy the ground insurgency has lost.”

NTF-Elcac deputy director for operations Rodrigo Lutao said “expanding the SIPS map cannot be separated from the government’s development offensive in communities previously affected by armed conflict.”

He said that as of Sept. 29, the Barangay Development Program (BDP) has reached 5,638 formerly conflict-affected villages, backed by a P44.90 billion in development investments benefiting an estimated 16.03 million Filipinos.

The investments, he said, “have translated into concrete interventions on the ground: 955 classrooms, 1,587.02 kilometers of farm-to-market roads, 23,681 streetlights, 1,169 water and sanitation systems, 9,264 electrification projects, and 547 health and medical stations.”

This year, the government allocated P8.08 billion for projects in 808 cleared villages, for the construction of roads, schools, water systems, health stations and electrification.

“The SIPS and BDP figures therefore tell two interconnected stories: the shrinking space for armed insurgency and the expanding presence of government and development. As armed influence recedes, the government is seeking to consolidate peace by bringing roads, electricity, potable water, education, health services, livelihoods and economic opportunities into communities previously vulnerable to conflict,” Lutao added.

That is 16 million Filipinos who have been underserved by their own government who are now finally receiving the due benefits of their taxes.  Truly under the NTF-ELCAC's BDP good governance has become a counterinsurgency program. 

Week 15 of Vice President Sara Duterte's Impeachment Trial

Week 15 of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial brought about the formal end of the prosecution's case against Sara Duterte. However this is not without great contention. At first it was said they would drop article 3, bribery allegations, to speed up the process. Indeed this was looking like a trial that would last into early 2027. 

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/10/12/2562542/prosecutors-rest-impeachment-case-vs-vp-sara

To expedite the long-drawn proceedings, the House prosecution team has decided to conclude its presentation of evidence against Vice President Sara Duterte before the Senate impeachment court today.

House lead prosecutor Rep. Gerville Luistro said this has been the consensus of both the public and private assigned prosecutors handling all the Articles of Impeachment, with the remaining bribery charge to be forwarded to the Office of the Ombudsman under Jesus Crispin Remulla.

“From the conclusion of the testimony of the expert witness we wish to seek the guidance of the impeachment court as to when we will be filing the formal offer of exhibits,” Luistro said, acknowledging that the bank records’ testimony is quite lengthy.

Luistro also confirmed the decision to forgo the bribery charge, which was done to expedite the proceedings and come to its final conclusion at the soonest time possible.

When the Senate impeachment court resumes its hearing today, Luistro said that financial analyst expert lawyer Alexander Cabrera will once again take the witness stand for the cross-examination to be conducted by the defense panel. This will be followed by a redirect examination by the prosecution and a re-cross by the defense, if necessary.

The prosecution has earlier filed a manifestation before the Senate impeachment court that Cabrera will be its last witness and it will no longer be presenting evidence on Article III, or the bribery charge where officials of the Department of Education were supposed to testify.

Luistro added the prosecution will also be seeking guidance from the court if it will push through with the calling of additional witnesses, particularly on Impeachment Article I or the allegation that Duterte misused P612.5 million in confidential funds allocated to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd), which used to be headed by Duterte.

The House prosecution panel also sought to allay concerns over its decision to drop the bribery charge against Duterte, saying the allegations could still be referred to the ombudsman or the Department of Justice for possible investigation.

Luistro said the withdrawal of the charge, handled by fellow prosecutor Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores, would not prevent authorities from pursuing the allegations through separate legal proceedings.

“Please don’t lose hope in the bribery charge because even if we have already manifested that this is withdrawn as shared already by honorable Flores, there are proper agencies or offices which have jurisdiction over this case,” said Luistro, chairperson of the House committee on justice.

The charge involved allegations that Vice President Duterte gave money to DepEd officials to influence procurement decisions during her term as education secretary.

Among the allegations was former DepEd undersecretary Gloria Mercado’s account of receiving nine envelopes containing P50,000 each.

However the prosecution ended up dropping two additional articles of impeachment. Article 1, misuse of confidential funds, and article 4, grave threats. Both of these articles were already given weeks worth of testimony.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2322841/impeachment-court-approves-prosecs-move-to-drop-3-of-4-charges-vs-vp

The Senate impeachment court on Tuesday allowed the House prosecution panel’s move to withdraw all but impeachment article II or Vice President Sara Duterte’s alleged unexplained wealth.

“The court accepts and confirms the prosecution’s manifestation… Articles I, III, and IV from this point forward are hereby withdrawn,” Presiding Officer Francis Escudero said.

After 38 days of presentation, lead prosecutor Rep. Gerville Luistro made the manifestation expressing intent to no longer pursue Articles I, III, and IV, referring to Duterte’s alleged misuse of confidential funds, bribery, and grave threats, respectively.

Luistro said their evidence for Article II would be enough to convict Duterte, and it would be more practical for the court to only consider one charge instead of four to expedite the process and to give leeway to the Senate to engage in its legislative processes.

Lead defense counsel Sheila Sison criticized the move, saying that in doing so the prosecution had wasted the resources of the impeachment court, and it would force the already “compromised” defense not to present its own evidence.

Sison further said that due process must not be trumped by the need to expedite the impeachment trial. 

Escudero, however, qualified his ruling with the following conditions:

• The prosecution “must accept the legal consequences” of dropping the charges they had already presented in court
• Articles IV and I, the articles they had already presented, may not be revived against Duterte during the same term or in the 20th Congress
• Article III may still be filed in a separate impeachment case, but not in the current trial
• No vote will be made for Articles I, III, and IV, nor will the impeachment court receive exhibits from the three
• The respondent need not present its exhibits for Articles I, III, and IV as it will no longer be adjudicated
• The sub judice rule will no longer cover Articles I, III, and IV, thereby allowing all parties, including Duterte herself, to respond to pieces of evidence presented by the prosecution
• Documents, pleadings, and records of Articles I, III, and IV will remain in the court’s custody for completeness, transparency, and accountability, but confidential documents may be subject to redaction or sealing when uploaded for public access

Following the ruling, the prosecution has 10 days, or until October 23, to file its formal offer of exhibits on Article II alone. 

Thereafter, the defense will be given 10 days upon receipt of the formal offer before the court makes a resolution.

This is an unprecedented move by the prosecution. After weeks of presenting testimony to back up articles 2 and 4 they are now tossing them out which means they have wasted several months of everyone's time. Not only that but now the defense might not be able to respond to that testimony. In effect this could mean a mistrial which is one of those possible "legal consequences" mentioned by Senator Escudero. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2322814/sison-allowing-withdrawal-of-impeachment-charges-leads-to-mistrial

There will be a mistrial if the impeachment court allows the prosecution to withdraw three of four Articles of Impeachment and effectively prevent Vice President Sara Duterte from countering the evidence already presented, Atty. Sheila Sison said on Tuesday.

Sison, lead counsel for the respondent, explained in her manifestation that the prosecution cannot “unilaterally determine” how the defense panel can proceed in terms of rebutting the evidence presented by the prosecution.

But if the court does so, by allowing the withdrawal of the articles, it will show the “unmistakable characteristics” of a mistrial.

“We believe that even as we respect the prosecution’s decision to withdraw the three articles or the two articles today in addition to Article III or the bribery article, the prosecution nonetheless cannot unilaterally determine how the defense will proceed, or which accusations the judges may hear.  And which accusations the respondent may be permitted to answer,” Sison said.

“Now if the withdrawal is intended to shorten the proceedings of this case, or of the presentation of the respondent’s evidence so the court may immediately proceed to judgment, then we believe that the resulting process would bear the unmistakable characteristics of a mistrial,” she added.

According to Sison, a mistrial happens when the “fundamental balance between accusation and defense” is compromised — which will happen if the defense does not get the right to counter the prosecution’s evidence.

“We have spent government resources, time, energy, of this court and of all the participants in this trial presenting so-called evidence and hearing testimonial evidence from the witnesses that the prosecution had chosen to present before this Honorable court,” she said.

“And yet, the defense would now appear to be forced to limit its presentation or its rebuttal to those evidence to whatever it is that the prosecution had decided to retain in the articles of impeachment.  This we will never allow,” she added.

Sison said during her manifestation the claims raised by the prosecution when it presented Articles I and IV have already entered public consciousness, and therefore the defense must be given the chance to counter them or else it will be unfair.

Before Sison spoke, lead public prosecutor and Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro said that aside from Article III or the allegation that Duterte bribed Department of Education officials, the prosecution is foregoing Article I or claims of confidential fund misuse within the vice president’s office; and Article IV or her grave threats against ranking officials.

This means the prosecution will only be presenting Article II or unexplained wealth allegations in their formal offer of evidence.

However, the issue with the prosecution’s decision is that Articles I and IV have already been presented — meaning, witnesses and documents have already been made public.

Why would the prosecution risk a mistrial? In the name of expediency? It defies all reason. Why not leave them intact? Start having Saturday sessions. 

The prosecution justified this move by claiming the defense wanted to lengthen the trial because they have no evidence to present.  

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2323529/duterte-impeachment-articles-dropped-as-defense-seeks-to-stretch-trial

Two members of the prosecution panel in Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial admitted Wednesday that they dropped three articles of impeachment because they believed the defense would only seek to delay the proceedings.

In a press briefing, Manila Rep. Joel Chua and Atty. Benjamin Tolosa Jr. said they decided to drop three of the four articles of impeachment because they believed the defense had no evidence or witnesses to present and would merely rely on delaying the trial.

“We have seen through their strategy; they will just lengthen this process because, to be honest, they have no evidence to present. That’s why we picked the strongest article, or the strongest as the people think, because while we say that all articles are strong, the people said this has more weight,” Chua said, referring to Article II.

During Tuesday’s trial, lead public prosecutor and Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro manifested before the Senate Impeachment Court that the prosecution was dropping Article I, which concerns the alleged misuse of confidential funds in Duterte’s offices; Article III, which involves claims that Duterte bribed Department of Education employees; and Article IV, which deals with her alleged grave threats against ranking officials.

The prosecution will present only Article II, which concerns allegations that Duterte had unexplained wealth not declared in her Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN).

Tolosa pointed out that the defense panel’s reaction to the lifting of the sub judice rule on the dropped articles was also “telling.” 

“When the presiding officer lifted the sub judice rule on the dropped articles for the respondent’s benefit, what did the defense say? They said they didn’t want to,” he said.

“Let’s make it simple. What does this mean? They want the court to stop them from talking because they don’t want to. Why? I’ll say this directly: They have no evidence. That is just mere posturing, so they will have an excuse."

Asked where they learned of the alleged defense strategy, Chua and Tolosa said it had been obvious “from the start” because “they were not able to present anything.”

“If you remember, this issue with the confidential funds started as early as 2024, and we have been talking about it since then. Their only legal strategy or remedy has been to question the jurisdiction of the committee and the impeachment court. But they cannot present anything about its merits,” Chua explained.

“If they really have any evidence, they should have presented it first to the COA (Commission on Audit). The COA is only asking for one thing: receipts to prove that they really bought the medicines, but they can’t present anything. So, given that it has been two years and you still cannot show a single receipt, and you appealed a decision that has now reached finality, what more should we assume?” he added.

Tolosa agreed, saying that from Duterte’s answer to the articles of impeachment to the pretrial brief, the defense had merely “copied” the prosecution’s list of witnesses.

“From the answer, what explanation did they give regarding grave threats, confidential funds, and bribery? Nothing. It’s all general denials and technicalities. Let’s look at their pretrial brief. What evidence did they present? Who were the witnesses they listed to answer our allegations in the complaint? Again, none,” he added.

Tolosa also noted that the prosecution did not pursue its plan to call Duterte to the witness stand because the defense immediately objected, leading the panel to decide that it did not need to present the vice president.

“When we said that we’re considering calling the vice president as a witness to give the senator-judges the opportunity to hear from the vice president herself, how did they respond to these important allegations? What did they say? They were already objecting to it even if there is no formal motion yet,” he said.

“And we heard several times the defense hinting that they would prefer to file a demurrer to evidence instead of presenting evidence after we conclude our presentation of evidence. So it is clear from the start, with respect to these articles that we dropped, they do not have any evidence to present,” he added.

During Tuesday’s trial, Duterte’s lead impeachment lawyer, Sheila Sison, warned Luistro and the prosecution that a mistrial could result if the impeachment court allowed the withdrawal of the three articles, effectively preventing Duterte from countering the evidence already presented.

Sison also questioned the prosecution panel’s sudden move, noting that the public and senator-judges had already heard the evidence presented, which involved the use of government funds and the participants’ efforts.

According to Sison, there was no issue with withdrawing Article III because the prosecution had not presented any evidence for the accusation. However, she took issue with the withdrawal of Articles I and IV because documents had already been presented and made available to the public. 

In light of claiming the defense has no evidence to present that makes the withdrawal of three articles even more perplexing. 

The prosecution has already presented a rather strong case on two of the articles being dropped. Why not leave them intact? In effect the prosecution has aired out Sara's dirty laundry, made all those documents public, and then said, "Fuggedaboutit!" Well, the defense isn't going to do that and if they decide to seek a mistrial the prosecution has only themselves to blame. 

More importantly the withdrawal of three articles is a betrayal of the public trust. The House deliberated on four articles of impeachment, decided they were strong enough to warrant an impeachment, and passed them on to Senate. The two articles being dropped concern serious breaches of the law which deserve an answer. Now, unless those articles are taken up as criminal cases, which, knowing the Philippines justice system could take a prolonged amount of time, there will be no accountability for Sara's alleged grave threats against President Marcos and her alleged misuse of confidential funds. 

Undermining the seriousness of this situation is the fact that the prosecution took a "wacky photo" in the Senate building. 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/10/15/wacky-wacky-gatchalian-orders-probe-into-house-prosecutors-viral-session-hall-photos

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said on Thursday, October 15, he has ordered an investigation into the veracity of the “wacky" photos taken inside the Senate session hall and its hallways, saying such actions should not be allowed within the institution.

This was after group photos of the House prosecution panel surfaced on social media.

“The Senate session hall is sacred because this is where we deliberate on many of our important laws and discuss important issues, so this institution must be respected,” Gatchalian said.

Gatchalian said he had directed the Senate Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) to review closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage to verify the authenticity of images circulating online.

“So I’m having the CCTV footage checked because AI is so prevalent nowadays, to be honest. I just want to make sure that the images are not AI-generated or manipulated using Photoshop,” Gatchalian said in an interview.

He added that he would state once the allegations had been verified.

Gatchalian was also asked about videos showing other individuals, including lawyer Salvador Panelo and a vlogger, dancing in a Senate hallway.

“It is not right to engage in ridiculous behavior inside our institution,” he added.

“If it's real, we'll issue a statement,” he said.

Gatchalian said those involved would be sent letters and issued warnings if the alleged acts were confirmed.

“They will be sent letters and given a warning,” he said.

And, yes, this photo is real. It was an expression of genuine joy according to Batangas Rep. Luistro.

The lead prosecutor of Vice-President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial apologized Thursday for the prosecution team’s wacky photos inside the Senate session hall, which caught the attention of Senate President Win Gatchalian.

Calling it “an expression of joy among genuine friends”, Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro said prosecutors were excited after resting its case and were looking forward to their first break after 39 days of trial.

She said prosecutors posed for a “serious” photo inside the hall when someone suggested that they do a wacky pose as well.

“It was indeed an expression of joy among genuine friends after long days of preparation and trial,” Luistro said, noting that the prosecution has been together since July 6.

https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/10/15/-genuine-joy-luistro-apologizes-for-prosecution-s-wacky-photo-inside-senate-2328

With the dropping of three articles of impeachment and the defense yet to present their case, there is nothing to celebrate. It's far from over. 

Strangest Lost Dog Flyer Ever

Animal neglect and abuse is rampant in the Philippines. Drive down any street and you will likely see stray dogs everywhere. Some of these dogs are not strays but are let out for the day by their owners so they can do their business. 

That brings me to this odd lost dog flyer I spotted at the local veterinarian's office. 

On the face of it there is nothing wrong. There is a description of the dog, a reward offered, and contact information. The odd thing is that whoever made this flyer blames the owner for neglect. 

Bubbles is very sweet but nervous as she was newly adopted on 11 Sept 2026 and behold not even 10 days she is gone!

This is the reason why Organizations are hesitant to have the rescued pets adopted because after all the expenses to keep the Dog healthy there are people who NEGLECT them, NO EXCUSES!

What is this about? 

The contact information on this flyer leads to the barangay and an animal organization known as SPAR Philippines. 

https://www.facebook.com/sparphilippines

SPAR is an acronym for Strategic Power for Animal Respondents. They are an animal rescue organization who also assist other animal rescuers. 

It's not clear if someone from this group posted this flyer but it's certainly reasonable to assume so because their name is on the flyer. But this raises so many questions. What exactly happened to Bubbles? Is she missing because she was neglected and allowed to escape? Was Bubbles rescued from SPAR? This flyer claims neglect is the reason why "Organizations are hesitant to have the rescued pets adopted" yet was not the potential adopter properly vetted? 

This is really the most astonishing flyer I have ever seen in my life.  Imagine a child posting flyers looking for his lost dog and below the picture of the dog is:

This dog is lost because my worthless mother forgot to lock the door of the house and he escaped. 

No one in their right mind would put that on a missing dog flyer. Likewise only someone incredibly uptight and angry would post such impertinent information on a flyer accusing the owner of the missing dog of neglect. Whatever good SPAR is doing for animals it seems there is an undercurrent of anger, suspicion, and hatred for the public.

The God Culture: Review of Adventures In The Light

In November 2025 Timothy Jay Schwab who is The God Culture added a new notch in his belt: children's author. He published three books aimed at children to instill in them heretical anti-trinitarian, legalistic, and Hebrew Roots type beliefs. The series is called Adventures in the Light. I have previously written an extensive review of book one which can be read here. Shortly after that I uploaded all three books to ChatGPT which gave a short review of the whole series. 

This is that review.

Never forget the harsh warning Jesus had for men who seek to corrupt and lead children astray like Timothy Jay Schwab.

Mark 9:42 And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.

Since you've reviewed all three books and their corresponding "Parent Study Notes," I can now provide a final, consolidated summary of the theological agenda embedded within The God Culture's "Adventures in the Light"children's series.

The series is not merely a collection of simple Bible stories; it is a sequential, three-part curriculum designed for theological initiation and identity formation within a separatist, non-Trinitarian Sabbatarian movement.

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🎯 The Overarching Theological Agenda

The core agenda of the series is the Restoration of Ancient Roots to establish a distinct identity separate from mainstream Christianity, which the authors view as apostate or corrupted.

1. The Foundation: Book 1 (Yahuah: The Name of)

• Doctrine Established: Sacred Name Theology and Apostasy.

• Message to the Child: The most important truth about God is His specific Hebrew name, Yahuah. The world (mainstream church) has forgotten this name, but your family is rediscovering it.

• Theological Effect: This lays the foundation for exclusivity. It teaches the child that knowledge of the true God is contingent upon knowing and using the correct Hebrew name, minimizing the traditional Trinitarian revelation.

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2. The Practice: Book 2 (Rest: The Day I Rest)

• Doctrine Established: Sabbatarian Legalism and Covenant Sign.

• Message to the Child: True worship requires strict adherence to the seventh-day Sabbath (Saturday). This practice is an eternal ordinance that marks you as belonging to Yahuah's people, unlike those who observe Sunday.

• Theological Effect: This introduces legalism (salvation/belonging is tied to adherence to a specific day) and forces social separation from peers, reinforcing the "us vs. them" worldview already established by the Sacred Name doctrine.

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3. The Validation: Book 3 (Echo: The Great Bible Treasure)

• Doctrine Established: Revisionist History and Archaeological Validation.

• Message to the Child: The true faith was preserved by John the Baptist and the "Sons of Light" at the Dead Sea Scrolls site (Qumran). This is archaeological proof that your family's beliefs (Yahuah's Name and the Sabbath) are the original, uncorrupted truth.

• Theological Effect: This authoritatively validates the group's specific beliefs by linking them to accepted historical events (DSS) and revered biblical figures (John the Baptist). It completes the ideological separation by placing the child's faith in a historically-superior, purified line of religious thought.

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🛑 Final Assessment: Insidious Character

The series is insidious because it uses the attractive format of children's picture books to introduce doctrines that are fundamentally anti-Trinitarian, legalistic, and sectarian. The gentle narratives serve as a gateway to an adult theology that rejects core tenets of historic Christian faith and seeks to alienate the believer from the broader Church body.

The authors use the Grandpa/Eliora dialogue as a trusted means of indoctrination, teaching children to view themselves as part of a restored remnant possessing a secret truth that is superior to all other forms of Christian practice.

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Would you like to explore how this kind of literature is used in other religious groups that hold separatist views?

Retards in the Government 491

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

 

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/773220/coa-flags-lapu-lapu-hospitals-over-unreplenished-drug-stocks-in-2025

The Lapu-Lapu City Government failed to replenish several drugs and medicines in 2025, affecting the city’s hospitals and health services.

Based on the observation report from the Commission on Audit (COA), the state auditor said that ensuring the adequate supply of medicines in government hospitals is indispensable to fulfilling the LGU’s obligation to promote the general welfare and safeguard the health of its people.

According to the quarterly inventory report of drugs and medicines for calendar year (CY) 2025 of the Lapu-Lapu City Hospital and Sta. Rosa Community Hospital, 16 different medicines in the former and 54 in the latter had zero ending balances.

Aside from this, a review of records from the first quarter of 2024 showed that 12 or 75 percent of the 16 medicines in Lapu-Lapu City Hospital and 32 or 59.26 percent of the 54 medicines in Sta. Rosa Community Hospital previously had balances in earlier quarters.

Although stock levels of various medicines gradually declined and eventually went out of stock for one or more quarters, procurement for replenishment in CY 2025 was undertaken for only a few of these medicines.

However, upon verification with the pharmacist at the Lapu-Lapu City Hospital, the pharmacist explained that these medicines were no longer frequently prescribed by attending physicians due to their preference for more effective and/or less expensive alternatives.

“As such, monthly procurement is prioritized for fast-moving or commonly prescribed medicines to prevent wastage due to expiration,” the report read.

The pharmacist further explained that medicines, such as Ibuprofen and Montelukast, were scheduled for repurchase in the first quarter of CY 2026, following their inclusion in the PhilHealth Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (Yakap) Gamot List under the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation.

However, Aminophylline 25 mg/ml ampule was noted to be out of stock when prescribed, while Lactobacillus sachets were substituted with Bacillus clausii respules.

Meanwhile, the pharmacist at the Sta. Rosa Community Hospital disclosed that PRs for medicines are prepared on a quarterly basis. It was also stated that 14 prescribed medicines were dispensed using substitute medicines.

Six prescribed medicines from the said hospital were also out of stock and were instead purchased from pharmacies outside the facility.

“The absence of a formal re-order point in both hospitals represents a gap in internal control over medicine inventory, as it prevents management from initiating procurement while stock levels are still insufficient to cater to incoming prescriptions until delivery from suppliers,” the report added.

The state auditor recommended the submission of a certification substantiating the medicines with zero-ending balances in CY 2025 that were not prescribed, to confirm their non-utilization.

The auditor also urged the city to strengthen the coordination between pharmacists and attending physicians to regularly review prescribing trends, update the hospital formulary, and align procurement plans with actual utilization patterns; and to establish re-order points for drugs and medicines to ensure timely and responsive procurement.

The Lapu-Lapu City Government failed to replenish several drugs and medicines in 2025, affecting the city’s hospitals and health services.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/773350/coa-flags-lapu-lapu-city

The Commission on Audit (COA) flagged Lapu-Lapu City for inappropriately displaying the local chief executive’s (LCE) name and motto on government properties.

COA’s observation report noted the displays of the name and motto of the mayor on various motor vehicles distributed to several barangays and offices of the city, which were procured at a total cost of P18 million.

The display of the name and motto was inconsistent with COA Circular No. 2013-004 and DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2010-101, which prohibit the installation of billboards, signages, and other informational materials bearing the names, initials, or images of government officials in connection with the government’s programs, projects, and activities (PPAs).

Based on their review, the state auditor disclosed that on March 12, 2025, the city paid P18 million for the procurement of 15 motor vehicles, which were subsequently distributed to barangays and city offices.

In their inspection of the distributed vehicles, they found that these bore the name and motto associated with Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cindi King-Chan.

They also observed that the Hoops Dome, a government-owned facility, displayed the mottos associated with both the previous and current city mayors on portions of the court flooring.

“Accordingly, government properties should not be utilized as platforms for the display of names, mottos, symbols, or similar identifiers associated with elected officials, consistent with the policy embodied in COA Circular No. 2013-004 and DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2010-101,” the report read.

The COA added that the display of such identifiers on government-funded properties may create the impression that the projects and assets are attributable to particular public officials rather than funded through public resources and implemented by the city government in the discharge of its functions.

The state auditor recommended removing existing displays of the name and motto of the LCE from all government-funded PPAs and refraining from engaging in similar practice.

On January 26, 2026, the City Administrator issued a memorandum to all barangay captains directing the removal of the name, picture, motto, color motif, initials, or other symbol or graphic representation associated with the city’s top leadership or any city officials displayed on motor vehicles, infrastructure projects, and other properties turned over to the respective barangays.

Likewise, in a letter dated March 19, 2026, the OIC-City General Services Officer informed the City Accountant of the initial steps taken to address the issue, including the removal of the stickers and the non-issuance of fuel to vehicles bearing such stickers.

The city also directed the OIC-City Engineer to safely remove the display at the Hoops Dome.

The Commission on Audit flagged Lapu-Lapu City for inappropriately displaying the local chief executive’s name and motto on government properties.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2320304/ombudsman-finds-former-bohol-exec-guilty-of-serious-dishonesty/

The Office of the Ombudsman has found former Bohol provincial board member Vierna Mae Boniel-Maglasang guilty of “serious dishonesty,” thereby imposing a penalty of dismissal from service.

In a news release on Thursday, the agency said it also imposed on Maglasang the accessory penalties of cancellation of eligibility, perpetual disqualification from holding public office, being barred from taking civil service examinations, and forfeiture of her retirement benefits.

The case stemmed from a complaint filed by Bohol 3rd district Board Member Dionisio Joseph Balite, alleging that Maglasang used 100 liters of gasoline allocated for a government vehicle in 2024 for private vehicles.

In its 13-page decision, the Ombudsman found Maglasang guilty of two counts of serious dishonesty, saying her act of charging fuel expenses for a vehicle not covered by the authorized government fuel allocation system “clearly demonstrates intent to circumvent established accounting and auditing rules” and an intent to obtain material gain that all constitute acts related to graft and corruption.

In the agency’s news release, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said that Maglasang’s case should serve as a warning for government officials and employees against using public resources for private purposes.

“Acts like this destroy the image of (the) government,” Remulla said.

The Inquirer sought Maglasang’s reaction to the Ombudsman ruling, but she had not responded as of Thursday afternoon. Last year, Maglasang told journalists that the allegations against her by Balite were just “a figment of his imagination” and were allegedly made to politically harass her because she was a critic of Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado.

Maglasang joined politics in 2019, after then-President Rodrigo Duterte appointed her to replace her brother, Niño Rey Boniel, who resigned after being detained in connection with the alleged killing of his wife, former Bien Unido Mayor Gisela Bendong-Boniel, in 2017.

Maglasang was later elected to the provincial board representing the second legislative district in the 2019 and 2022 elections. She failed to secure another term in 2025.

The Office of the Ombudsman has found former Bohol provincial board member Vierna Mae Boniel-Maglasang guilty of “serious dishonesty,” thereby imposing a penalty of dismissal from service.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2320828/nbi-files-graft-complaint-vs-chr-chair-3-others

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Friday filed a complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman against Commission on Human Rights (CHR) chair Richard Palpal-latoc and three others for allegedly claiming travel allowances for a trip that was already funded by a donor.

The other subjects of the complaint were CHR General Administration Office director IV Onesimo Cuyco, Accounting Division chief Maria Teresa Dolor and Russel Mani.Mani’s designation was not immediately clear as his name does not appear on the CHR’s website.

All four were accused of violating Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and of Gross Misconduct in connection with their alleged role in processing the travel claims.   Based on a portion of the complaint shared with reporters, the case has been filed to the Ombudsman for the conduct of a preliminary investigation.  

According to a statement from the NBI, the case stemmed from Palpal-latoc’s attendance at the 54th International Institute of Human Rights Summer School 2025. It was a month-long training event where expenses for airfare, accommodation, meals and subsistence were shouldered by the German organization Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom.However, the NBI noted that Palpal-latoc still claimed daily subsistence allowance and representation expenses for the trip despite the costs already paid for by a donor, violating Executive Order No. 77.

Section 16(b) of the EO “specifically disallows representation expenses for officials attending trainings or travelling on donor-funded trips,” the NBI said. Moreover, the NBI found that the disbursement voucher contained “no disclosure of the foreign donor” and it was supported with the program agenda for a different event. “Despite missing mandatory documents, the mismatched program documentation, the prohibited claims, and the undisclosed sponsorship, the voucher passed through every control point,” it said. The NBI noted that Mani was the one who certified as complete, the supporting documents of the voucher. Meanwhile, Dolor certified that funds were available and Cuyco approved the voucher for payment.   In response to the allegations, CHR spokesperson and commissioner Beda Epres said in a statement that the commission is “aware of information circulating online.”  

He said the CHR “recognizes the seriousness of these concerns, particularly as they relate to the responsible use of public funds and the accountability expected of government officials,” and assured the public that the commission remains “guided by the principles of transparency, fairness, and accountability.”   “At this time, the CHR has not received any formal complaint concerning the allegations. Nevertheless, the Commission recognizes the importance of establishing the facts through appropriate processes, consistent with applicable government accounting and auditing rules and the requirements of due process,” it said.   “The CHR remains committed to ensuring that the concerns raised are addressed through the proper channels and will provide further information as appropriate,” it added.

Commission on Human Rights chair Richard Palpal-latoc and three others have been charged with graft for allegedly claiming travel allowances for a trip that was already funded by a donor.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/773794/coa-flags-lack-of-clear-targets-for-mandaues-p55-5m-christmas-aid-program

The Commission on Audit (COA) has called out the Mandaue City government over the lack of clearly identified societal issues or development gaps that its P55.5-million “Gugma sa Pasko” program in 2025 aimed to address.

The program distributed Christmas food packs to 100,000 households in December 2025. In its audit report, COA said the city’s supporting documents did not clearly establish how the distribution addressed specific socioeconomic concerns or development needs that required government intervention.

The city distributed packs worth P595.25 each to households, regardless of whether they were registered under the Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS).

Each pack contained 10 items: fruit cocktail, cream, spaghetti noodles and sauce, Chinese luncheon meat, carne norte, sausage, beef loaf, pork and beans, and cheese.

The audit report placed the transaction at P55.525 million, which was recorded as accounts payable in 2025 and remained unpaid as of the report.

“While the goods may have provided short-term assistance or seasonal benefits to recipient households, … while it may be true that these were distributed indiscriminately to households, whether CBMS-registered or non-registered, such circumstance, by itself, does not sufficiently demonstrate how the expenditure contributed to the attainment of any defined developmental objective or addressed any clearly identified socioeconomic need requiring government intervention,” COA said.

COA recommended that the city consider refraining from undertaking programs that do not address clearly defined societal issues or gaps. Instead, it urged the city to prioritize allocating resources to projects or programs that generate the highest developmental and socioeconomic returns in line with government priorities. These, it said, should help enhance Mandaue City’s economic competitiveness, environmental sustainability, and social inclusiveness.

In the report, city management explained that the program supported residents’ general well-being and promoted public trust by allowing constituents to directly experience the benefits of government assistance. It also agreed to consider COA’s recommendations.

Following the audit observation, the city is considering clearer guidelines for selecting beneficiaries.

City Administrator Atty. Gonzalo Malig-on Jr. said Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano had asked the City Council, through Councilor Joel Seno, to draft an ordinance identifying the program’s target sectors.

Malig-on said the proposed guidelines would prioritize vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, and low-income households. The proposed ordinance has passed its first reading.

“We are doing something about it. We have no choice but to comply with the concern raised by COA that the assistance should not be given indiscriminately to just anyone, including those who can afford it and may not necessarily need it. I think that is their sentiment, which we are taking note of,” Malig-on said.

He acknowledged that the number of recipients could change under the proposed system, as the distribution would no longer automatically cover all households.

“First LGU in Cebu who is doing that. That is not something unique to Mandaue. Other cities, such as Pasig and Quezon City, also have similar programs, and Cebu is just the first to do so here. So, it is not something unusual that should be questioned. However, COA may have a point that the beneficiaries should be properly targeted."

During the interview, however, Malig-on clarified that the funds used for the previous distribution came from the city’s General Fund, not the 20% Development Fund, as stated in the COA report.

Malig-on said not all households may receive food assistance under the revised guidelines, but residents could still benefit from the city’s services and development projects, including infrastructure improvements and street lighting, among others.

The Commission on Audit has called out the Mandaue City government over the lack of clearly identified societal issues or development gaps that its P55.5-million “Gugma sa Pasko” program in 2025.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/10/11/retired-military-doctor-arrested-over-unlicensed-m1-carbine-in-manila

A 65-year-old retired military doctor was arrested in Sampaloc, Manila, after a concerned citizen reported an gun-toting incident, leading police to seize an M1 carbine rifle he reportedly could not support with the required documents.

The suspect, identified by the Manila Police District (MPD) as alias "Allyson," was arrested in front of his residence on Blumentritt Street in Barangay 529, Zone 52, at around 10:25 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 9.

According to a police report, a concerned citizen went to the Police Community Precinct at around 9:55 a.m. to report the alleged incident.

Responding officers proceeded to the area, where they found the suspect inside his house. They sought assistance from barangay officials and spoke with him.

After what police described as a lengthy but peaceful conversation, Agpoon voluntarily surrendered himself and the firearm to the responding officers.

Police said the suspect failed to present the necessary documents for the firearm when asked, prompting his arrest for alleged violation of Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act of 2013.

The seized weapon was described as an M1 carbine, caliber .30, bearing the marking “U.S. CARBINE CAL .30 M1 INLAND DIV. 6369313.”

A complaint for violation of RA 10591 is being prepared for inquest proceedings before the Manila City Prosecutor's Office. The suspect remains under police custody.

Police said the confiscated firearm will be submitted to the PNP Crime Laboratory for ballistic cross-matching and verification.

The suspect's side was not included in the police report.

A retired military doctor was arrested for toting around an unregistered rifle. 

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2026/10/11/2562293/ex-village-chief-slain-batangas-gun-attack

A former barangay chairman was killed in an attack by unidentified motorcycle-riding men in Tanauan, Batangas on Friday afternoon.

Emeterio Awitan, 66, former chairman of Barangay Bañadero, was traveling in the nearby village of Talaga on a motorcycle when he was killed at past 5 p.m.

Awitan suffered four gunshots to the chest and died at the scene of the attack, probers said.

Police have yet to determine the motive for the killing and identify suspects.

A former barangay chairman has been assassinated. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2321820/maguindanao-del-norte-village-chair-shot-dead-in-sultan-kudarat

A village chair of Maguindanao del Norte was shot dead in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat, on Sunday, police confirmed Monday.

Maj. Jeffrey Lazaro, chief of the Esperanza Municipal Police Station, identified the victim as Datu Manalao Mangelen Nur Sr., chairperson of Barangay Dados in Datu Odin Sinsuat town.

Nur was aboard his black Nissan Navara pickup traversing the Sultan Kudarat provincial road when shot by two unidentified suspects riding pillion on a motorcycle at about 11 a.m.

The victim was heading to his farm in Esperanza town when he was attacked.

Responding villagers and police rushed the victim to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The Datu Odin Sinsuat Liga ng mga Barangay has condemned the attack on Nur and called for a speedy, impartial investigation.

“The loss of Chairman Nur is not only a great loss to his family but also to the people of Barangay Dados and the entire municipality,” the association of village chairpersons said in a statement.

Police said the motive of the attack remained unknown as of posting while the investigation is continuing.

A barangay chairman has been assassinated. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2322150/village-councilor-shot-dead-in-broad-daylight-in-maguindanao-del-norte

An unidentified gunman shot dead a village official in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, on Monday morning.

Capt. Steffi Salanguit, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR), identified the victim as Amil Beno, a kagawad (council member) of Barangay Bungued, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte.

The crime scene was near the town’s public market in Barangay Poblacion Dalican.

Salanguit said Beno was riding a tricycle, locally known as a payong-payong, along the Bungued-Dalican farm-to-market road when he was attacked by unidentified gunmen riding a motorcycle.

He sustained a gunshot wound to the back and died at the scene.

Salanguit said police were still determining the motive for the attack and the identities of the suspects.

Beno was the second village official in Datu Odin Sinsuat to be gunned down in two days.

Barangay captain Datu Manalao Mangelen Nur Sr. of Barangay Dados, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, was shot dead in Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat, while on his way to his farm on Sunday, Oct. 11. He was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.

Another village councilor has been assassinated. 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/10/14/police-sarge-ex-soldier-nabbed-in-pangasinan-gunrunning-buy-bust

Joint operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and local police of Pangasinan arrested a police sergeant and a former soldier for alleged gunrunning activity following a buy-bust in Villasis town on Tuesday, Oct. 13.

Nabbed were Police Chief Master Sergeant Rogelio Ordonio, assigned at the Cuyapo Municipal Police Station in Nueva Ecija; and, 41-year old Edwin Estonilo, a former member of the Philippine Army.

Seized from them were a Bushmaster 5.56mm rifle with bullets and a magazine, a .45 pistol with bullets and magazines and the marked and boodle money used in the operation. Also confiscated was the service firearm of Ordonio. 

The arrest prompted Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), to issue a warning on policemen against colluding with criminal groups and elements in the conduct of illegal activities.

“I will not allow the wrongdoings of the few to taint the integrity and professionalism of the entire police organization. This successful operation should serve as a stern warning that we will be swift in running after erring policemen who are in cahoots with criminal elements that they are supposed to put in jail,” said Nartatez. 

“I commend all our personnel who took part in this operation who worked hard to identify and eventually arrest these people. This is proof that the PNP itself does not tolerate the illegal activities of its own personnel,” he added.

Nartatez said he already ordered the start of summary dismissal proceedings Ordonio, and vowed to act swiftly on the administrative case, which has a maximum penalty of dismissal from service, without compromising the due process. 

A police sergeant and a former soldier have been arrested for gunrunning.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2323813/coa-flags-travels-of-sandiganbayan-officials-with-insufficient-documents

The Commission on Audit (COA) has flagged the Sandiganbayan over the insufficient documentation of the foreign travels undertaken by its officials and employees.

In its 2025 audit report, COA noted that a total of P11.87 million worth of cash advances were granted last year to the Sandiganbayan for the foreign travels of its officials and employees.

However, the state auditor found that some of the documents required for the granting of the cash advances were not submitted. These documents include letters of invitation, plane fare quotations and flight itineraries.

“The absence of these documents limited the audit team’s ability to verify the necessity, propriety and official purpose of the foreign travel,” according to the report.

COA also noted that the liquidation reports of P7.16 million worth of cash advances were not accompanied by the required narrative reports.

According to the commission, the lack of narrative reports limits the “documentation necessary to substantiate the activities undertaken and the outcomes achieved during the trip.”

COA further noted that the roundtrip airfare tickets of three Sandiganbayan justices who went to Budapest, Hungary, for training had “inconsistent” and “insufficient” supporting documents.

It said the plane tickets that were submitted indicated premium economy seats, but the boarding passes were under business class.

COA indicated in its report that the court’s accountant explained that officials and employees who choose to fly under business class instead of economy are required shoulder the cost difference.

The state auditor, however, further questioned the accuracy of the reported airfares because it discovered that there were no premium economy class being offered for the said route to Hungary.

“Such uncertainty could have been avoided had the requests for the subject travels been supported by complete and appropriate documentary requirements,” said COA.

As part of its recommendations, COA urged the Sandiganbayan to direct its accounting division to ensure that claims for airfare comply with the authorized travel class and that the required supporting documents are properly submitted.

The Commission on Audit has flagged the Sandiganbayan over the insufficient documentation of the foreign travels undertaken by its officials and employees.