The God Culture: The Location of Ophir Before Spanish Document 98

One of the many reasons Timothy Jay Schwab who is The God Culture believes the Philippines is Ophir is because some European explorers said so. Another reason is because he misidentifies the place some European explorers said was Ophir as being the Philippines. That place is the Lequios Islands. Spanish Document 98 identifies them with Ophir and Tarshish, Magellan allegedly scratched out Lequios substituting Ophir and Tarshish, Tim believes the Lequios Islands are the Philippines, therefore the Philippines is Ophir and Tarshish. According to Tim, this identification was "official Spanish policy."

https://thegodculturephilippines.com/from-seville-with-gold----barbosa-magellan-and-the-suppressed-identification-of-ophir/

Primary Evidence:

1. French Source (1907) – Bulletin de la Société Royale Belge de Géographie, pp. 439–461

“Odardo Barbosa… resolutely identified [Lequios] with Ophir and Tarshish… in a document we found in the Archives of the Indies in Seville.”

1. Magellan's Submission

“It is permissible… to conclude that the navigator [Magellan] presented to the King the revised version of the report by his friend Barbosa… accompanying it with formal astronomical determinations.”

1. Suppression in Print

2. The Seville manuscript used “Ophir and Tarshish.”

3. The Lisbon printed edition replaced them with “Lequios.”

4. The 1907 journal concludes this was a clear editorial shift obscuring the original biblical identification.

Supporting Evidence:

• Cabot Map (1544): Labels the “Canal of the Lequios” in Philippine waters.

• Santa Cruz Map (1539): Places “Carrigara” and Cebu together between 7–12°N latitude. Places Lequios Canal in West Philippine Sea

• Document #98 (Spanish Archive): Equates Lequios and Ophir directly, and as a destination more important than China.

• Pigafetta’s Journal: Notes traders from the northwest (i.e., Luzon) during his time in Cebu.

• Galvao (1555): Places the Lequios specifically as Lucones (Luzon). Defines Pinto's shipwreck on Luzon as well. 

• Castenhada (1883): Defined the Lequios Isles as Southeast of China, never Ryukyu nor Japan. 

Conclusion:

The identification of the Lequios Islands as Ophir and Tarshish was official Spanish policy, documented by Magellan, recorded by Barbosa, and submitted to the Crown. The editorial erasure that followed was not an academic oversight—it was cartographic and historical suppression.

This exposé restores the truth, not by conjecture, but by returning to the primary source in Seville that declared the Philippines the Land of Gold—Ophir.

This is circular reasoning founded on speculation and later hearsay. What does Tim mean that this identification was "official Spanish policy?" Does he have any official Spanish documents signed by the King stating the Lequios Islands are Ophir? A royal decree? Official correspondence? State-sanctioned documents such as navigational charts, treaties, or reports, that formally label the Lequios Islands as Ophir?  Tim doesn't cite any official Spanish government documents in this article. He cites maps and the assumption of a magazine article. "It is permissible to conclude" is not a statement of fact.  Tim is going to need a whole lot more evidence to prove his theory that the identification of the Lequios Islands as Ophir was "official Spanish policy." Document 98 is not an official government document. It is a list of Portuguese discoveries, not a royal edict.

The same French article Tim cites say Sebastian Cabot was tasked with finding Ophir and Tarshish.

"HERRERA. General History of the Deeds of the Castilians, etc., Madrid, 1601, Decade III, Book IX, Chapter III: Sebastian Cabot was to go in search of the Moluccas as well as the other islands and lands of Tarshish, Ophir, eastern China and Japan, crossing the Great Gulf, and load his ships with gold and silver, precious stones, etc. (... concerning the Moluccas... and also in search of the other islands and lands of Tarshish, Ophir and eastern Cathay, and Cipango, crossing that Gulf to trade and load the ships with Gold, Silver and precious Stones, Pearls, Drugs, Spices, Silks, Brocades, etc.)."   

If, as Tim claims, it was "official Spanish policy" that the Lequios Islands were Ophir and Tarshish and Magellan gave the King precise astronomical data as to their location why would Cabot have to go in search of them? He should have been able to sail directly there. Also, in Cabot's instructions the location of Tarshish and Ophir are associated with eastern China and Japan. That's not the Philippines. This further suggests that neither Cabot nor anyone else identified the Lequios Islands, Ophir, and Tarshish with the Philippines which Magellan had already discovered before Cabot set sail in 1526. 

Basing the location of Ophir on someone's say-so and misidentifying the location is no way to do history or geography. Spanish Document 98 dates to sometime before 1522 and details Portuguese discoveries which means that list cannot contain the Philippines since it was the Spanish who discovered the Philippines, not the Portuguese. I have an article about Document 98 here. 

It was the Spanish who inserted the identifier of Tarsis and Ofir for the Lequios Islands. Why was this done?  On what basis did Barbosa and Magellan believe the Lequios Islands, a place no European had yet explored, were Ophir and Tarshsish? What evidence did they and the author of Document 98 have for such speculation? Tim does not think to ask those questions. He accepts the identification as fact. 

These are especially relevant questions because Barbosa and Magellan were both Portuguese explorers. Yet, Ophir was found by the Portuguese before Barbosa wrote his book which means both he and Magellan were likely aware of that information. In 1502 Portuguese sailor and explorer Thomé Lopes set sail to India with Vasco de Gama. He wrote that Ophir was actually in Mozambique in a place named Sofala. He says the natives claimed to have written documentation proving this out. 

https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=ucm.5309452470&seq=345

Where it is said that the ships of King Solomon took gold, and where myrrh is gathered in abundance.

On Friday, the 22nd of July, in the morning, we entered the port of Mozambique, having passed through a sea full of small islands, which they call islets, and we saw crossbow fire from the land. Then some Moors came out to greet us and brought a letter from the sheikh of the mainland, who sent to the captain saying he wished to be friends with the King of Portugal. The captain welcomed them courteously and gave gifts to the islanders, since he saw that the port was safe and peaceful, and the Moors were experienced in navigation and trade.

We decided to continue on toward Quiloa, and the next day we came to the island of Amiceida, where we disembarked. There, we found a great abundance of myrrh. The captain sent men inland, who returned saying that the lands there were rich in gold, and that the gold of Solomon had come from that region, since his ships took three years to return — and that this might be that same land. They also said that the Queen of Sheba had come from that place, and that it belonged to the lands of India.

Likewise, the Moors told the captain that in that land there was a large quantity of myrrh. Beyond that, they found many kinds of spices. They said that the interior lands were extremely wealthy and that they traded gold, pearls, and other riches. Therefore, they were highly honored. The island and the adjacent mainland were inhabited by Moors under the lordship of the sheikh of Amiceida, who had submitted to the captain of the mines of Cefala.

And those responsible for the mines said that there had once been great quantities of gold, but now it was no longer abundant. Still, they said that by digging, one could extract a little gold, though not as before. And when it was found, they smelted it and made coins from it. This gold was said to be very pure, and it was prized even in the East and among merchants who came from Mecca, Zidem, and India.

They spoke of the mines of Ophir and referred to many books and writings, saying that this was the place from which King Solomon’s ships came to fetch gold, and that this was Ophir. They also said the Queen of Sheba had departed from there to visit King Solomon with gifts, just as the Scriptures recount.

Thomé Lopes notes the natives not only claimed Sofala to be Ophir but cited written records as proof. While the nature of those records are not revealed, this is stronger evidence than mere hearsay or speculation. It shows a documentary connection to the biblical location of Ophir. The natives also say gold was no longer abundant. That fits a scenario where Solomon mined the region for many tons of gold. The true location of Ophir would likely be stripped of resources. Contrast that to Tim's thesis that the Philippines is Ophir because it still has many tons of untapped gold in the ground. 

Duarte Pacheco Pereira, in his book Esmeraldo de Situ Orbis, confirmed this discovery. 

For in the second year of your reign 1497 a.d. and the 28th year of your age your Highness ordered the discovery to be continued from Ilheo da Cruz, where King John left off, and without counting the great and heavy expense, a portion of Ethiopia under Egypt was discovered, which from the earliest times to our day was utterly unknown. Your captains discovered anew the great mine which some hold to be that of Ophir and is now called Çofala, whence the most wise King Solomon according to. . .the ninth chapter of the third book of Kings and the eighth chapter of the second book of Paralipomenon, drew 420 talents of gold with which he built the holy temple at Jerusalem.

Esmeraldo de Situ Orbis, pgs. 4-5

Pereira's book was written between 1505 and 1508.

Dr Jaime Cortesao, who has studied the question very fully, is of the opinion that the first fifteen chapters, or somewhat less than a quarter of the work, were written during the last months of 1505, the remainder between 1507 and 1508.

pg. xvii

In 1539 Joao de Castro reaffirmed Sofala as being the location of Ophir and recommend that the king of Portugal repair it. 

The number of Portuguese in these parts is great, for from Sofala to China there is nothing that has not been tread upon by them. But those of us who are in the King's service are few and poorly organized, and in my judgment, the Viceroy, should he wish to give battle to the Turks, would not be able to assemble two thousand men. From this one perceives the neglect and relaxation in His Majesty's service that has occurred in India, for though Your Highness pays seventeen thousand men each year, there are not even two thousand truly in service — not to speak of the many others who should be guarding the fortresses.

I took some time to examine the muster roll, and the conclusions I drew from it were these: besides much deceit, theft, loss of honor, and destruction of Your Highness's wealth, it should not be called a muster roll but rather a register of evils. In it I found many men who had been paid twenty or thirty thousand cruzados in wages, wages that had been purchased at fifteen or twenty percent, and below that, countless others. It seems to me a shameful thing that this muster roll was the instructor that taught the Portuguese to lose their honor, their fear of God, and their desire to serve Your Highness.

A great remedy and correction was that Your Highness sent someone so virtuous and diligent in seeking the truth, as is Cosme Anes, its scribe. Your Highness has many fortresses in these parts that truly are fountains of gold, and that name is not strange, for in ancient times it was called the Golden Chersonese (Malacca), and it would not be far-fetched to suspect that Sofala is Ophir, from where Solomon sent his ships to load gold.

And if the other fortresses were to say, 'I have no gold or silver,' as Saint Peter said to the beggar who asked him for alms, they may still be asked for what they do have — and they will give cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and all sorts of spices. And if this is so, then it is clear that the wealthiest and most profitable places bring more loss to Your Highness than benefit — a complaint made by all of us who travel these lands.

I do not know who precisely bears the blame, but it seems to me that Your Highness ought to repair Sofala and all that lies from the Cape of Comorin eastward, and you would be freed from such great expenses and troubles.

https://archive.org/details/dli.ernet.535308/page/n11/mode/2up

This was written at least 17 years after Spanish Document 98. If the Portuguese thought the Lequios Islands were Ophir and Tarshish as that document appears to claim why did he continue to insist on Sofala as being the correct location?

These are three early attestations that Ophir was discovered by the Portuguese in Africa. Significantly, two of these accounts predate any knowledge of the Lequios Islands. In contrast, the third account supports the Sofala claim even after the Lequios Islands were discovered and proposed as an alternative location for Ophir. Why shouldn't this claim for Sofala be believed over all others? Written evidence from the natives make this claim rather strong. The lack of gold which was once abundant also fits the story of Solomon mining the region.

However, there are many who object to Sofala being Ophir. The fact that this proposed location is contested is exactly the point. Nobody knows where Ophir was located. Every single theory regarding Ophir is a guess. That includes the Philippines. Some guesses, such as Josephus's Golden Chersonesus, are more likely than others but they are all guesses. 

Why not stop with these silly games and pseudo-historic inquires and deal with real historical facts? In the end, the only honest answer is that no one knows where Ophir was. Every proposed location, from Mozambique to the Philippines, is speculative. For Timothy Jay Schwab to elevate his pet theory to certainty while ignoring others is not just poor history; it's intellectual fraud.

Retards in the Government 419

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

 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1250604

A former Manila councilor charged with kidnapping for ransom has been arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the agency said Thursday.

In a statement, the NBI said Roderick Valbuena was apprehended shortly after arriving from Las Vegas on May 20.

Valbuena is one of five accused in a kidnapping for ransom case filed before the Makati City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 61.

He was arrested by NBI - International Airport Investigation Division operatives under a warrant issued by the RTC and was processed at the NBI - National Capital Region in Manila.

He was turned over to the NBI detention facility in Muntinlupa City for custody.

A former Manila councilor charged with kidnapping for ransom has been arrested.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/05/22/sandigan-affirms-conviction-of-samar-town-assistant-treasurer

The Sandiganbayan has affirmed the conviction of the assistant treasurer of Basey town in Samar for malversation of P1.76 million in public funds but it reduced the jail term imposed on her by the regional trial court (RTC).

Instead of the jail term ranging from 17 years to 20 years and one day imposed by the RTC on Assistant Treasurer Marieta C. Hernandez, the anti-graft court reduced the imprisonment to eights years and one day to 14 years and eight months.

Just like the ruling of the RTC, Hernandez was ordered to pay a fine of P1,766,640.33 and to restitute the government of the amount she misappropriated. She was also perpetually disqualified to hold public office.

Hernandez was designated officer-in-charge of the Basey municipal treasurer’s office on Jan. 26, 1996.

In her appeal, Hernandez told the Sandiganbayan that she was denied her right to speedy trial since the proceedings took 17 years and seven months before the decision was handed down.

She also claimed that the testimony used during trial was hearsay, and the Commission on Audit (COA) certifications on the missing funds are "hearsay documents" since these were not presented during trial.

In denying her appeal, the anti-graft court said: “Contrary to the claim of the accused-appellant, all the elements of the crime of malversation are present beyond reasonable doubt and the testimony of the witness is not hearsay evidence.”

On her argument that her right to speedy trial was violated, the court pointed out that the delays in the proceedings were largely attributable to the actions of the defense.

"Notably, in the instances where the trial was deferred due to the prosecution, there is no record indicating that Hernandez nor her counsel raised any objection. Hernandez's failure to timely assert the alleged violation of her right to a speedy trial amounted to a waiver of that right," the court also said.

The 11-page decision was written by Fourth Division Chairperson Associate Justice Michael Frederick L. Musngi with the concurrence of Associate Justices Lorifel L. Pashmina and J. Ermin Ernest Louie R. Miguel.

The Sandiganbayan has affirmed the conviction of the assistant treasurer of Basey town in Samar for malversation of P1.76 million in public funds.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2025/05/27/2446034/barangay-chief-councilors-shot-dead-cavite

A barangay chairman and two of his councilors were killed by a former barangay watchman, who also shot himself dead, during a flag-raising ceremony in Barangay Salitran 3, Dasmariñas City, Cavite yesterday.

The victims were identified as barangay captain Raul Atarde Ballos, 56; and councilors Jose Lagones, 65, and Marvin Cañete, 54.

Sangguniang Kabataan secretary Christine Joseph Bonus was seriously wounded.

Probers identified the suspect as alias Ariel, 50, a former barangay tanod who was reported to have been absent for one week due to an illness.

Initial investigation showed that the victims were standing in line for the regular Monday morning flag-raising ceremony when Ariel approached from behind and opened fire.

Ariel shot himself after the incident. He was rushed to St. Paul Medical Center where he was declared dead on arrival.

The chairman, councilors and youth secretary were rushed to various hospitals. Two of them were declared dead on arrival.

Police investigators are checking information that Ariel failed to report for work prior to the incident.

Probers are also verifying reports that the suspect went to the treasury section of the barangay hall to claim his P6,000 allowance.

However, the amount was allegedly not released, which reportedly irked Ariel.

A barangay chairman and two of his councilors were killed by a former barangay watchman, who also shot himself dead, during a flag-raising ceremony.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/05/26/poll-leader-for-naic-mayor-elect-shot-dead

A man who served as an election leader for the mayor-elect of Naic was shot dead on Saturday, May 24.

A report from the Police Regional Office 4A said the victim had just gotten out of his vehicle when a gunman approached and shot him.

Following the attack, the suspect rode pillion on a black scooter and fled, heading toward Trece Martires.

The victim was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

His role as an election leader for Naic mayor-elect has sparked speculation that the crime was politically motivated.

However, Naic Municipal Police Station (MPS) stated that it is too early to conclude whether the killing was linked to the mid-term elections.

“Authorities strongly emphasize that, at present, it is not appropriate to link the incident to the recently concluded election process. The case is currently undergoing a thorough investigation by the relevant authorities to determine the true motive and any related factors,” Naic MPS said on a statement posted on Facebook on Sunday, May 25.

“Until the investigation yields conclusive results, any attempt to associate the incident with the elections is considered speculative and may lead to the spread of misinformation among the public.”

The police are now looking for two suspects, including the gunman who was wearing a blue jacket, gray t-shirt, denim pants, and a white cap, according to CCTV footage from the crime scene.

A man who served as an election leader for the mayor-elect of Naic was shot dead.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/05/27/taguig-city-govt-employee-nabbed-in-drug-buy-bust

The police arrested an employee of the Taguig City government in a drug bust on May 26. 

The Taguig police identified the suspect as alias Erwin, 20, who is reportedly assigned at the Flood Management Office of Taguig. He was tagged by the police as a high value individual. 

He was arrested at about 8:40 p.m. in a buy-bust operation by the Taguig police’s Station Drug Enforcement Unit in Barangay Rizal. 

Seized from the suspect were four plastic sachets containing suspected shabu, weighing 104.7 grams valued at P711,960, a genuine P500 used as buy-bust money and six pieces of P1,000 boodle money. The seized evidence will be turned over to the SPD Forensic Unit for laboratory examination.

The police will file a complaint against the suspect for violation of Sections 5 (sale, trading, administration, dispensation, delivery, distribution and transportation of dangerous drugs and/or controlled precursors and essential chemicals) and 11 (possession of dangerous drugs) of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) with the Taguig City Prosecutor’s Office. 

In a statement, Brig. Gen. Joseph Arguelles, acting district director of the Southern Police District, said, “This arrest is a testament to our continued commitment to eliminate illegal drugs from our communities. The Southern Police District will remain relentless in its operations to ensure public safety and hold offenders accountable. We will not let up in this fight.”

A government employee has been arrested for drugs. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/05/27/cop-shoots-bizwoman-dead-in-davao-city

A 39-year-old businesswoman was shot dead by a police officer in Davao City on Sunday night, May 25.

Police said the victim was a resident of Barangay Angliongto, Davao City.

Investigation said witnesses heard two gunshots at around 11:35 p.m. from a black Mitsubishi pickup parked on Palma Gil St., Barangay 13-B.

A man wearing dark clothing, jeans, and a cap left the vehicle, followed by the wounded victim, who was taken by responding lawmen to a hospital in Davao City where she was declared dead on arrival.

The suspect was positively identified by witnesses as a member of the Davao City Police Office Police Station 15 (Ecoland) through photographs shown by responding officers.

Recovered from the crime scene were two fired cartridge cases and two fired bullets. These pieces of evidence are currently undergoing ballistic examination. 

Davao City lawmen swiftly launched a manhunt resulting in the suspect’s voluntary surrender at 5 a.m. in Digos City on Monday, May 26. 

The suspect, allegedly involved in an extramarital affair and had quarreled with the victim before the incident, was turned over to DCPO Police Station 1 (Santa Ana) for the filing of appropriate charges.

Davao City police chief Police Col. Hansel Marantan said they are conducting a thorough investigation of the case.

Marantan assured the public that all legal action will be pursued in accordance with established procedures.

He reminded DCPO to uphold the law, serve the public with integrity, and maintain the highest standards of professionalism.

A 39-year-old businesswoman was shot dead by a police officer in Davao City on Sunday night, May 25.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2064388/ncrpo-18-cops-face-raps-over-neglected-help-desks-phone-use-on-duty

A total of 18 police officers in Metro Manila are facing administrative cases for leaving their assistance desks unattended and using their cellphones while on duty.

National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin announced this in a press conference in Makati City on Wednesday.

Ten of the officers were among an initial 28 personnel investigated for neglecting their assistance desks after a surprise inspection by the NCRPO earlier this May.

“Of the 28 we had investigated, 10 of them will see their cases proceed. We are awaiting approval from Comelec (Commission on Elections) for their relief orders and reassignment,” Aberin said.

Section 9 of Comelec Resolution No. 11059 prohibits the transfer of assignments of any Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel during the election period, which ends on June 11.

The other 18 of the 28 officers initially investigated will not face an administrative case after “justifying” that their absence from their assistance desks was due to police response operations, Aberin detailed.

“Aside from that, we have eight other police officers with the ranks of corporal and patrolman, who will be charged for neglect of duty for using their cellphones during their duty as patrollers,” Aberin added.

The NCRPO chief did not provide a breakdown of the officers’ places of assignment.

Aberin said the crackdown on cops leaving their help desks unattended and using their phones on duty was part of a “red teaming” initiative by the regional police.

“Red teaming” is a process in the PNP to assess police readiness and see areas for improvement.

“We’ve tasked all districts to create red teams,” the NCRPO chief added.

A total of 18 police officers in Metro Manila are facing administrative cases for leaving their assistance desks unattended and using their cellphones while on duty.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1250969

Police operatives in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat arrested a father and son on Tuesday, suspected of murdering a police officer in Barangay Kalawag II before dawn on the same day.

“The suspects were apprehended at past lunchtime Tuesday,” Lt. Col. Julius Malcontento, the Isulan police station chief, said in an interview on Wednesday.

Malcontento, who led the arresting team, said the suspects, both businessmen, were apprehended during a follow-up operation in Polomolok, South Cotabato, more than 10 hours after they allegedly shot dead Executive Master Sgt. Geoffrey Angub, 46, in Barangay Kalawag II.

Angub was a resident of Barangay Kalawag and was assigned to the Bagumbayan municipal police station.

Vincent Dalanon Sr., 54, and his 29-year-old namesake son surrendered to authorities in Barangay Sulit, Polomolok.

Malcontento said initial police findings indicated that the motive for the murder was a personal grudge, though he did not elaborate.

Both suspects are detained at the Isulan police detention facility, awaiting the formal filing of appropriate charges.

A father and son have been arrested for murdering a cop. 

Coronavirus Lockdown: Build A Firehouse, Pandemic Agreement, and More!

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

Bong Go has warned Filipinos about the rise in COVID-19 cases in Southeast Asia. He says everyone should wear face masks and wash their hands. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/05/19/bong-go-warns-pinoys-on-uptick-of-covid-19-cases-in-southeast-asia

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go on Monday, May 19 urged Filipinos to remain vigilant but calm following a reported increase in COVID-19 cases in some parts of Southeast Asia. 

Go, chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, said it is important for Filipinos to continue observing basic health and hygiene protocols, particularly in public and healthcare settings. 

“We have learned many lessons from the pandemic. While we were able to overcome this, we still can’t be complacent,” Go said. 

Though optional, Go said it is best for Filipinos to still observe the wearing of face mask especially inside hospitals and in public places.

“Let’s make it habit to wear face masks in hospitals, to wash hands and giving importance to our health,” the senator advised. 

“It’s important to be careful, especialy if our health is at stake. Let’s remember health is wealth,” he reminded. 

That didn't work the first time. Why will it work this time? 

On the less hysterical die one health executive says COVID-19 is now just an ordinary virus. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1250567

The coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) is no longer a serious public threat and is already considered an ordinary viral infection that is treatable, a Negros Oriental health official said Wednesday.

Dr. Liland Estacion, Provincial Health Office (PHO) chief, gave the assurance amid media reports of mild Covid-19 cases in Hong Kong, Singapore, and other countries.

“In the Philippines, we do have Covid cases. In the province, there are positive cases, especially those we have confirmed through antigen testing. But for DOH (Department of Health), they are already considered non-reportable,” she said in mixed English and Cebuano.

Estacion said that because Covid-19 is no longer a “non-reportable” disease, the province could no longer give a complete or holistic report of cases, as many people undergo private antigen testing.

In the past, the PHO strictly monitored Covid-19 cases in local government units and hospitals.

“We treat Covid as a respiratory infection, and we no longer have guidelines on addressing cases,” Estacion said.

Crazy that the DOH has eighty-sixed guidelines on addressing COVID-19. For what other diseases have they nixed the guidelines?  

On the global stage the Philippines has been calling for global action on the health care workforce crisis.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1250582

The Philippines, through the Department of Health (DOH), has called for global action to address issues in the health and care workforce.

In a side event at the World Health Assembly (WHA) on Tuesday, DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa urged countries, development partners, civil society organizations, and the private sector to work together in strengthening the global health workforce.

He said this can be achieved through modern education and training systems, fair wages and decent working conditions, ethical international recruitment, and the adoption of innovative technologies for health worker training.

A DOH statement on Wednesday said Herbosa’s call comes after alarming projections of a global shortfall of over 11 million health workers by 2030 —a gap that is expected to hit low-income and middle-income countries where healthcare systems are already under strain.

The talk was organized by countries including the Philippines, Ireland, Germany, Morocco, and Jamaica, and concerned groups like the World Medical Association and the Frontline Health Workers Coalition.

It aimed to elevate the importance of strategic and inclusive action in building a future-ready health workforce.

The event also builds momentum for the World Health Organization Pandemic Agreement Resolution, which would address the gaps and inequities exposed during the Covid-19 pandemic and strengthen global collaboration to prevent, prepare for, and respond to future health threats.

Herbosa formally assumed the presidency of the 78th WHA on Monday in Geneva, Switzerland.

The WHA is composed of 194 member-states serving as the primary forum for crafting international health policies and global health priorities.

WHA delegates discuss key global health challenges, including pandemic preparedness, strengthening health systems, improvement of access to health technologies, and universal health coverage progress.

DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa had the gall to stand before the World Health Alliance and talk about "fair wages and working conditions." Does he know what's happening in the Philippines? The lack of fair wages and safe working conditions is why so many nurses leave the country. 

The Philippines has hailed the adoption of the World Health Organization Pandemic Agreement. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1250496

The Philippine government on Tuesday welcomed the adoption of a historic United Nations accord that sets out approaches for international coordination on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response.

The Pandemic Agreement, the first of its kind, was adopted on Tuesday during the 78th World Health Assembly in Switzerland following three years of intensive negotiations launched due to gaps identified in national and global response to the Covid-19 pandemic (2020-2023)

“Starting during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, governments from all corners of the world acted with great purpose, dedication and urgency, and in doing so exercising their national sovereignty, to negotiate the historic WHO Pandemic Agreement that has been adopted today,” the Philippines’ Department of Health Secretary and World Health Assembly president Teodoro Herbosa said.

“Now that the Agreement has been brought to life, we must all act with the same urgency to implement its critical elements, including systems to ensure equitable access to life-saving pandemic-related health products.”

Herbosa said the accord allows countries to build on lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure the future generation is better protected if a future pandemic emerges.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the adoption represents a “historic milestone for multilateralism and a reaffirmation of the collective resolve of the international community to strengthen global cooperation in health.”

Manila played a constructive role in the negotiations when it served as co-facilitator for several articles, helping coordinate the Group for Equity composed of more than 30 member-states, and consistently advocating for fairness, inclusiveness, and the interests of developing countries in pandemic preparedness, prevention and response.

The Philippines also championed key provisions to promote and protect the rights of healthcare workers.

Among the key elements of the accord are commitments relating to pandemic prevention and surveillance, Pathogen Access and Benefits Sharing (PABS), access to pandemic-related health products, technology transfer, and research and development.

The work of WHO member-states will continue through the Intergovernmental Working Group to finalize the Annex on PABS.

Should the Assembly adopt the PABS annex next year, the Pandemic Agreement will then be open for signature and consideration of ratification, including by national legislative bodies.

The agreement will enter into force after 60 ratifications.

The Philippines will continue contributing to this process and ensuring the development of a “fair and effective agreement” that will enhance global health security and promote health for all, the DFA said.

The WHO said pharmaceutical manufacturers participating in the PABS system will make available to the organization “rapid access targeting 20 percent of their real time production of safe, quality and effective vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics for the pathogen causing the pandemic emergency.”

The distribution of the products would be based on public health risk and need, with particular attention to the needs of developing countries.

The adoption of the Pandemic Agreement followed its approval by member-state delegations on May 19, with 124 in favor, zero objections and 11 abstentions.

It seems like a lot of this agreement is about sharing data and technology. Tell that to China who continues to stay mum on the Wuhan lab. 

During the height of the pandemic in 2020 an American decided to visit Cebu City. What!? I remember travel basically coming to a halt. Any travel that was possible was extremely onerous. But he has fallen in love with the city. 

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/638866/american-volunteer-of-ccfv-plans-to-build-a-firehouse-in-cebu-city

In 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Keith A. Thornton Jr. arrived in Cebu City. His vacation soon transformed into a mission when he saw the urgent need for assistance in the local fire service.

Thornton connected with the Cebu City Fire Volunteers, Inc. (CCFV), an organization that welcomed his experience. That year, CDN Digital featured him, marking the beginning of his growing commitment to improving opportunities for fire volunteers.

Now, at 36, the former police officer and emergency management professional is leading a long-term initiative to build a firehouse, enhance training, and strengthen resources for the community.

Over the past five years, Thornton has returned to the Philippines more than 10 times, seeing his work as both a personal and spiritual calling.

“The Cebuanos,” he says, “have become my second family.”

His stay opened his eyes to the reality of Cebuano firefighters.

In an interview with CDN Digital, Thornton shared an observation:

“If you take a moment to drive through the City of Cebu and really look around, you’ll notice fire engines and ambulances parked in hazard areas—some in front of private driveways, others in vacant lots, university parking areas, or military bases.”

Without fire stations, fire volunteers face critical challenges that threaten safety and emergency response.

Thornton is set on acquiring land in Cebu to establish a firehouse for his team. While he hopes for government support, he is prepared to raise funds to make it happen.

He is planning to build a firehouse with living quarters, a kitchen, and a secure garage for emergency vehicles, as well as a training center that will allow collaboration with other brigades while offering life-saving education to the community—CPR, First Aid, and disaster response.

The American volunteer has spent weeks surveying land and refining his strategy, believing this initiative will serve as a vital lifeline for Cebu City.

He wants to build Cebu City a fire station. It is pretty pathetic that a foreigner has to do the job of the local government. 

Hot Dogs!

Here are two stories about hot dogs in the Philippines. 

A woman decided her 10-year-old son needed to have his hot dog trimmed. So, she took him to a doctor at a local clinic. This doctor administered anesthesia and the boy immediately began shaking, shouting, and spacing out.  He was rushed to a hospital but they were unable to revive him. 

It turn out the doctor is only a licensed midwife and not a doctor at all. This same fake doctor was arrested in 2023 for practicing medicine without a license but was released on bail. Sometime after that he was able to find work at a clinic once again practicing medicine without a license.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/946825/doctor-who-circumcised-10-year-old-boy-in-tondo-clinic-fake/story/

The person who circumcised a 10-year-old boy at a lying-in clinic in Tondo, Manila and later died was not a registered doctor, a barangay official said.

The suspect was also arrested in 2023 by the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group after using the name and license number of a legitimate doctor whom she had worked with over 20 years ago, GMA Integrated News’ Jhomer Apresto reported on Unang Balita Wednesday.

However, the suspect was released on bail.

Barangay 146 Councilor Maria Christina Tipon said the suspect does not have any permit to operate.

(There was no request so what we know is she is not operating. What we know is that she is a licensed midwife but not a doctor.)

(They should be vigilant whether these doctors are registered or not. There are many hospitals that they can go to.)

Marjorie San Agustin told GMA Integrated News’ that she brought her son Nathan to the clinic at around 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 17. Before the circumcision, her son was administered anesthesia—reportedly in the amount of 20cc, as per the clinic staff.

(He said he couldn’t feel anything anymore. I saw my son shivering.)

(I asked the doctor if that was normal because I was getting scared. The doctor said it was normal because he was groggy. Then he started shaking and shouting.)

(Yes, his eyes were open, but he was already spaced out.)

Nathan was rushed to a nearby hospital, but attempts to revive him proved unsuccessful.

The grieving family reported the incident to the Manila Police District and later sought the assistance of the National Bureau of Investigation to seek a thorough investigation.

(We are investigating, but the autopsy is our top priority. Depending on the result, we’ll determine if someone should be held accountable.)

(We need to determine the cause of death. We’ll issue a subpoena to the person to explain the procedure performed.)

According to the family, the result of the autopsy is expected in seven days.

The NBI also visited the clinic where the procedure took place.

GMA Integrated News also went to the location. After ringing the doorbell for several minutes, someone finally answered but said the person who performed the procedure was not there

There are a lot of questions to be answered such as why this person had not been to trial in the space of two years and how he was able to work in a clinic. It is not clear if he opened an unlicensed clinic or found work at one. 

Barangay Councilor Maria Christina Tipon basically said this woman should have been more vigilant in making sure this person was a real doctor or just gone to a hospital. The whole thing could have been prevented if the mother had not decided her son's hot dog needed to be mutilated. Circumcision provides no health benefits whatsoever. The religious benefits are moot since Jesus Christ has come and baptism rather than circumcision is now the sign of the covenant. 

However, if she really wanted to cut her son's hot dog there are plenty of places that will do it correctly. There are also free Operation Tuli clinics which occur throughout the country. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/05/22/around-300-boys-get-free-circumcision-in-las-pinas

Around 300 young boys availed of free circumcision during the “Oplan Tuli” program conducted by the Las Piñas city government at the Aguilar Sports Complex, Pilar on May 20.

Las Piñas Mayor-elect April Aguilar was present at the event. She said the program is part of the city government’s ongoing efforts to provide accessible health services to the community, especially during the summer break.

She also assured that the program is carried out exclusively by licensed doctors and medically trained professionals to ensure safety and proper post-operative care.

The City Health Office (CHO), led by Dr. Juliana Gonzales, spearheaded the activity. She emphasized that only qualified health personnel performed the procedures, highlighting the city’s commitment to proper hygiene, medical standards, and patient care throughout the program.

The mayor-elect expressed her support for the children and their parents and commended the health workers and volunteers for ensuring the smooth and well-organized conduct of the medical mission.

She announced that the next free circumcision sessions will be held on May 24 at the Aguilar Sports Complex in Pilar, and on May 26 at the DRRMO Building in Talon Dos.

Those interested in the program are encouraged to visit their nearest barangay health center for screening and pre-registration.

While this program took place in Las Piñas the mother should have looked for such a program in her area. Ideally she should have left her son's hot dog alone. Now he is dead. 

Two poodles died while attending a training facility. The owner of the facility says they died of heatstroke. He also buried them 5 days before informing their owners. The owners of the poodles were naturally outraged. They claim they saw photos of the dogs with blood around their heads. Additionally, one of the poodles heads was missing. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/05/21/dog-owners-seek-justice-after-pets-die-in-marikina-training-facility

The owners of two poodles that died in a dog training facility in Marikina are demanding justice, questioning the trainer’s claim of heatstroke and pointing to injuries that suggest possible animal abuse. 

In a Facebook post, pet owners Karla and Sandy Rios stated that their dogs, Guanciale and Donki, passed away on May 12 while under the care of the facility. However, they were only the deaths on May 17. 

Sandy, Donki's owner, said that the trainer personally went to their house to inform them of the incident. 

“When he got to my house, he explained to me and my husband that Donki has been dead since last Monday, May 12, along with one of my SIL’s dogs whose name was Guanciale,” she said. 

They said they were shocked about the trainer’s claim that the dogs died of heatstroke.  

The pet owners were also dismayed after finding out that the bodies of the dogs were just put in a sack and buried without their consent. 

“He claimed that both died from heatstroke. And that they buried them right away without even telling us—without our consent. My husband and I were both in shock upon hearing all of this,” she stated. 

Sandy said that she messaged the trainer a few days before learning about the incident to ask if they could get their dogs back.  

However, the trainers only replied, “Mam mga 2 weeks pa po (Ma'am, maybe in about two weeks),” to which she assumed that the dogs were still being trained. 

However, she became suspicious when they saw the photos showing the dogs with blood on their heads.  

She also said that one of the dogs was missing its head. 

She also mentioned that the trainer “even had the audacity to offer ‘compensation’ by giving us a new dog.” 

Due to what happened to their pets, the owners hope the training facility will be shut down. 

“As I write this, I cannot help but think that only a monster can do something like this. This is animal abuse. This is cruelty. This is a crime,” she said. 

“They don’t care about our dogs, they only care about making money. They need to close down. Please help us spread this news,” she added. 

Aside from the two pets that died, their five other dogs that were also in the same training facility were just returned to them on May 18. 

In a Facebook post, Karla, the owner of Guanciale, said the five dogs came back very thin and looked neglected, even though the training center often asked for grooming payments. 

She also shared photos of the dogs before they were brought to the facility and after they were returned, showing how their condition had gotten worse. She added that one of the dogs now has an eye infection. 

Meanwhile, the training facility has yet to release any statement.

It seems like a clear cut case of animal abuse and the facility should be immediately closed and the owner charged accordingly. The Philippine Animal Welfare Society agrees. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/05/22/paws-calls-for-closure-of-marikina-based-training-center-after-deaths-of-2-dogs

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) has urged the local government of Marikina to shut down a dog training center following the deaths of two poodles under its care.

The animal rights group said the facility lacks an animal welfare permit from the Bureau of Animal Industry–Animal Health and Welfare Division, which is required under the Animal Welfare Act of the Philippines.

In a TV interview, PAWS Executive Director Anna Cabrera said they are already coordinating with the owner to file criminal charges against the training center.

“In view of all these and to safeguard the lives of other dogs which may still in the facility, we are requesting the immediate closure of the said facility and for your good office to direct the owner of the said facility to give the LGU a list of the owners of the dogs still under their care so that they can be contacted,” PAWS said in its letter to the local government.

It added that they can send a personnel to accompany police officers during the facility’s closure and serve as observers should any animals require medical assistance.

Perhaps the owner will be charged and his training facility closed. Perhaps he will be let out on bail and go back to his old ways such as the fake doctor. Either way these hot dogs are now dead.