Retards in the Government 453

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

 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/01/15/iloilo-village-chair-yields-p65-m-shabu

A barangay captain in northern Iloilo province was caught with nearly P 6.5-million worth of suspected shabu in an anti-drug operation on Wednesday.

Authorities identified the suspect as Matt, captain of Barangay Poblacion Tuble in San Dionisio town.

Seized from the 39-year-old barangay official was more than 955 grams of suspected shabu when he was arrested in the neighboring town of Sara.

The Iloilo Police Provincial Office-Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (IPPO-PDEU) led by Police Major Dadje Delima conducted surveillance against the suspect for a month after receiving information from an informant in Sara.

Matmat reportedly sourced his supply from Estancia town and distributed it in other parts of Iloilo.

Iloilo police chief Police Col. Bayani Razalan lauded operating units for the suspect’s arrest.

“I congratulate our PDEU on this successful anti-illegal drug operation and the arrest of this high-value target, an incumbent punong barangay. Regardless of position or status in society, as long as it is involved in drugs, we will not hesitate to arrest any individual,” said Razalan in a statement on Thursday, Jan. 15.

The suspect is facing charges for violating Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Drugs Act of 2002.

A barangay captain in northern Iloilo province was caught with nearly P 6.5-million worth of suspected shabu in an anti-drug operation.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/01/15/ex-cop-wanted-for-murder-arrested-in-cavite

An ex-police officer wanted for two counts of murder and who has been in hiding for over a year, was arrested by the joint forces of the Bulacan, Navotas, and Cavite police in Brgy. Tres Cruces, Tanza, Cavite, at around 3:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14. 

Lt. Col. Russel Dennis E. Reburiano, chief of the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), identified the suspect as Ulysses Hernani Castro Pascual, 46, of No. 628 Governor Pascual St., Brgy. San Roque, Navotas City. 

The arrest was made following the issuance of a warrant of arrest by the Regional Trial Court, Branch 11, City of Malolos, Bulacan on Feb. 20, 2025, in connection with Criminal Case Nos. 988-M-2025 and 989-M-2025 for two counts of murder, with no recommended bail. 

The operation was led by the Tracker Team of the Bulacan PIU in coordination with the personnel of the Bulacan 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, Malolos City police station, Navotas City police station, CIDG Cavite, and Tanza municipal police station of the Cavite PPO, under the supervision of Municipal Mayor Archangelo Matro and village officials. 

At the time of his arrest, a Glock 9mm 43X pistol with an optic sight, chamber load, and a loaded magazine with 15 bullets were seized from him. 

The suspect is believed to be behind the murder of former Board Member Ramil Capistrano, ABC President of Bulacan, and his driver Shedrick S. Toribio, which occurred in Brgy. Ligas, Malolos City on Oct. 3, 2024. 

"The arrest of one of the main suspects in the murder of Capistrano is a result of the close coordination between the units of the Bulacan Police and our partner agencies. We will continue our campaign to ensure that criminals are held accountable and to maintain peace and justice in the province of Bulacan," said Col. Angel L. Garcillano, Bulacan police director. 

Governor Daniel R. Fernando lauded the Bulacan police force for their arrest of Pascual. He appealed to the people of Bulacan to cooperate in maintaining peace and order in the province. 

An ex-police officer wanted for two counts of murder and who has been in hiding for over a year, was arrested.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/973118/bong-revilla-ombudsman-malversation-flood-control/story/

The Office of the Ombudsman on Thursday filed malversation and graft charges against ex-Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla, Jr., former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan Assistant District Engineer Brice Hernandez and five others over the alleged P92.8 million ghost flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan. 

"The Ombudsman will pursue these cases without fear or favor," Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said in a press conference after filing the charges before the anti-graft court.

The criminal charges filed against Revilla are the second batch of flood control-related criminal cases filed by the Ombudsman prosecutors before the Sandiganbayan.

Cases against public officials under Salary Grade 27 and higher are filed before the Sandiganbayan, the anti-graft court.

The Office of the Ombudsman on Thursday filed malversation and graft charges against ex-Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla, Jr., former  DPWH Bulacan Assistant District Engineer Brice Hernandez and five others over the alleged P92.8 million ghost flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan. 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/01/19/sk-councilor-nabbed-in-bacolod-drug-sting

A Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) councilor and two others were arrested and 105 grams of suspected shabu valued at P714,000 was seized in a buy-bust operation in Purok Sigay, Barangay 2 here on Monday, Jan. 19. 

Police identified the suspects as Jess, 19, SK Councilor; SK Kagawad Jov, 23, and JM, 18.

The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) said Jess was reportedly involved in illegal drug activities in Barangays 2, 10, and 12. 

Following intelligence reports, police conducted surveillance and, with the help of a confidential informant, arranged a transaction that led to their arrest. 

Authorities said Jess’ two companions were allegedly purchasing illegal drugs when they were arrested. 

Jess and Jov were classified as high-value individuals while JM was tagged as a street-level individual. 

The contraband was submitted to the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Forensic Unit for laboratory examination. Suspects are detained at Police Station 2. 

Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, said the operation underscored their firm enforcement of the law regardless of an individual’s position or status. 

He said that public officials and drug offenders will be held accountable and reiterated their commitment to combating illegal drugs through intelligence-driven and lawful operations. 

A Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) councilor and two others were arrested and 105 grams of suspected shabu valued at P714,000 was seized in a buy-bust operation. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2171179/trillanes-on-plunder-graft-complaints-vs-sara-duterte

Former Sen. Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV and members a civil society group have filed plunder and graft complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte over the alleged misuse of her office’s confidential funds and other anomalies during her stints as education secretary and Davao City mayor.

Trillanes and members of The Silent Majority (TSM) lodged the complaints before the Office of the Ombudsman on Wednesday. 

In a statement released to the media during the filing, TSM founder Jocelyn Marie Acosta explained that the newly filed complaint builds on an earlier case involving the alleged misuse of confidential funds submitted by civil society groups in December 2025.

She said the new complaint covers alleged irregularities during Duterte’s terms as Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) and as mayor of Davao City, including claims that she received money from individuals linked to the illegal drug trade.

The complaint alleged the large-scale misuse of public funds, including P650 million in confidential funds from the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education, as well as P2.7 billion in confidential funds during Duterte’s term as Davao City mayor.

It also flagged alleged irregularities in the P8-billion laptop procurement at DepEd, along with billions of pesos in audit disallowances and unliquidated cash advances under her watch.

The complaint further claimed that only 192 classrooms were built despite a target of more than 6,000, raising accusations of graft and gross incompetence, as well as Duterte’s alleged failure to declare more than P2 billion in assets in her Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth, which complainants describe as ill-gotten wealth.

Additional allegations include bribery and corruption, citing claims that she received money from a drug personality while serving as mayor of Davao City, and that she is unfit to hold public office and guilty of betrayal of public trust, pointing to two public incidents in which she allegedly threatened President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

“We appeal to the Ombudsman to act decisively on these complaints. Vice President Duterte must immediately answer for these crimes against the Filipino people,” Trillanes said. 

Former Sen. Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV and members a civil society group have filed plunder and graft complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Coronavirus Lockdown: Muntinlupa Health Workers, Philippines Waives Visas For Chinese, and More!

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

In order to boost post-pandemic tourist numbers the Philippines has begun waiving visas for Chinese tourists. 

https://theedgemalaysia.com/node/789333

The Philippines will allow Chinese nationals to enter without visas for a stay of up to two weeks, as the Southeast Asian nation pushes to revive its faltering tourism sector.

The visa-free privilege for Chinese nationals entering the Philippines for tourism or business will be effective Friday, Manila’s Department of Foreign Affairs said. It’s also only valid for those entering through the Manila and Cebu airports, and the 14-day stay period is not extendable.

“This is in line with the president’s directive to facilitate trade, investments, and tourism, as well as strengthen people-to-people exchanges between the Philippines and China,” the department said in a statement on Thursday. The visa-free arrangement will be in effect for a year and will be reviewed before expiring, it added.

The Philippines is further easing travel requirements for Chinese visitors as its tourism industry struggles to gain ground. The country has also been a regional laggard in post-pandemic tourism recovery as Chinese nationals opt for neighbouring countries like Vietnam. Tourism accounts for nearly a tenth of Philippine economic output.

The move marks a sharp reversal from curbs placed a few years ago over concerns that some visitors from China were involved in scams and illegal gambling. It also comes even with a lingering spat between Manila and Beijing in the South China Sea.

So, after all the trouble the Philippines has had with Chinese workers coming over on tourist visas and immigration officials being bribed by fake Chinese tourists the BI is now going to wave protective strictures to boost tourism 

Muntinlupa helth workers are set to finally receive their pandemic health allowances. 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/01/16/muntinlupa-health-workers-to-receive-hea

Health workers in Muntinlupa will finally receive their Health Emergency Allowance (HEA) intended for those who worked in risk areas during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon announced that the city government received the fund from the Department of Health. 

“The HEA comes from the National Government to be given to health workers and other personnel who provided services during the pandemic. The granting of the said allowance was delayed because it was still subject to the review of the DOH allocation of funds from the National Government,” Biazon posted on Facebook. 

With the passage of the 2026 General Appropriations Act after President Marcos signed the budget, the amount of P6.77 Billion was formally allocated for the HEA nationwide. The amount represented the balance of the government for HEA. 

The mayor said in Muntinlupa, the DOH downloaded P36 million on Jan. 12 and the City Health Office is computing the allocation per qualified beneficiary for the preparation of the payroll. 

It is estimated that the HEA will be released next week.

In a 2022 press release, the Department of Budget and Management said, “Qualified health workers refer to medical, allied medical, and other personnel assigned in hospitals and health care facilities, and who are directly catering to or in contact with COVID-19 patients, persons under investigation (PUIs) or persons under monitoring (PUMs).”

The HEA categories were based on risk exposure. Those deployed in "low risk areas" were entitled to at least P3,000; those deployed in "medium risk areas" would receive at least P6,000; and those in "high risk areas" would get at least P9,000.

Biazon said depending on the worker category, there are those whose HEA will be deducted withholding tax. 

Which other workers have yet to receive their money?

During the pandemic which caused uncertainty about the entertainment business one Filipina feared for her the future of her singing career. Influenced by Taylor Swift she began steps to retain full ownership of her music catalog.

https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/showbiz/music/2026/1/18/how-taylor-swift-inspired-yeng-constantino-to-make-a-brave-career-move-1534

Yeng Constantino opened up about how Taylor Swift inspired her to take ownership of her music catalog.

In an interview on MYX NOW , Yeng shared that Taylor's decision to reclaim ownership of her master recordings made a strong impression on her as a brave and empowering move.

"I have a contract with Star Music that they will handle my songs for fifteen years, I think. This is Taylor Swift, when we saw that she really fought to own her songs, [I said] that's great, that's brave. But I didn't immediately think that I wanted to do that too," she said.

Yeng explained that it was during the pandemic when she seriously considered following a similar path, amid the uncertainty surrounding live performances and the entertainment industry.

"But the pandemic happened, so during the pandemic, I think you also felt that the world would go back to the way it was before? Would there still be gigs, would there still be normal TV shows where I could still be seen that way like before? And one of the things that I really saw was the potential of me owning my catalog," she recalled.

The singer admitted that the most difficult part of the decision was informing her Star Music family, whom she credits for supporting her career over the years.

"I think the hardest part of that journey is to talk to my bosses because they've been so good to me. Sir Jonathan (Manalo), Sir Roxy (Liquigan). It's so heartbreaking, as in I was really crying when we talked. I cried, [I said] I'm really sorry, I'm sorry that I had to do this, I also need to think about my future and also like the people I see with Taylor, it would be a huge blessing financially for me if the world didn't go back to the way it was," she said.

Yeng added that things eventually worked out for the better. "Thank God, the world is back to how it was before and here we are doing shows again, concerts, so the blessings are doubly doubly. Plus, I didn't burn any bridges with my bosses. We still see each other, we love each other... And they really understood where I came from," she remarked.

Back in 2023, Yeng released an extended play (EP) called Yeng REIMAGINED featuring the re-recordings of her past singles after owning her music catalog.

In an Instagram post in July 2023, Yeng said, "After a few years, my music catalog is now in my care. 🥰 And because of that, I gave some of the songs you loved from me a new look."

She added: "This is REIMAGINED . The first five songs of many more to come. I will always be grateful for all the support you have given and are giving me. I dedicate all of this to you Yengsters! Pre-save the EP! Link in bio. JULY 28, 2023 out!"

The EP contains five songs including "Salamat," "Lapit," "Ako Muna," "Kasalano Ko Ba," and "Pag Ayaw Mo Na."

In another Instagram post, Yeng explained why she chose the said songs for this EP.

"Three of my songs became singles that are fan favorites and I love singing live ('Lapit,' 'Salamat,' 'Ako Muna'). One track that didn't become a single but is one of my favorite things I've written ('Pag Ayaw Mo Na')," she said.

Yeng continued: "A song I wrote for others that I gave my own twist to ('Kasalanan Ko Ba' for Ms. Jaya)."

The singer remarked that the process of bringing this project to life has been a joyful one.

"The process of making this project has been so much fun. From searching through my music catalogue, arranging, recording, thinking of the album cover and now delivering it to you. Never mind the eyebags and fatigue! Join me in looking back at the songs I wrote!" she stated.

Aside from crying to her bosses she does not say how she was able to get the rights to her music catalog. Did she buy them? If so for how much? Did she just re-record them? Either way she succeeded. 

The Superflu is here!. But nothing to worry about. It's just the ordinary flu. 

https://davaocity.gov.ph/health/cho-urges-public-to-observe-health-standards-amid-superflu/

The City Health Office (CHO) urged Dabawenyos to practice basic health standards amid the advent of superflu.

Even then, the CHO said the illness should not be a cause for alarm as it is similar to the ordinary flu.

CHO Officer-in-Charge Tomas Miguel Ababon clarified that superflu is not a new disease but a variant of the common flu, particularly the H3N2 variant, with the same symptoms and treatment.

“Superflu is just a variant of the common flu, specifically the H3N2 variant. It is just like the ordinary flu. It is not a very alarming disease because its symptoms and treatment are the same as those of the common flu,” Ababon said.

As part of its information and awareness campaign, the CHO reminded the public to observe preventive measures similar to those practiced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“How to prevent, kadtong niagi tag COVID, all of the preventive measures for that disease are also the preventive measures for this disease. Cover your mouth when coughing, stay at home kung sick kung naay fever, and if you must go out, wear a well-fitting mask. Wash hands every now and then; don’t touch your face, especially if you are not sure that your hands are clean,” he added.

This month, the CHO also strengthened its campaign on the prevention of Influenza-like Illness (ILI), which has symptoms such as sore throat and body pain, cough or colds, fever, and fatigue.

The health office advised Dabawenyos to stay hydrated, eat nutritious food, get enough rest, and consistently follow minimum health standards to prevent flu-related illnesses.

So, basic health precautions are what was recommended during COVID? How long until stay at home orders are issued?

Senator Francis Pangilinan Admits The Philippine Justice System Is Corrupt

Does the Philippines Justice System work? I have written many articles saying NO! Now a sitting senator has admitted this truth. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1267139

Weaknesses and abusive practices in the justice system are allowing corrupt public officials to escape accountability, a senator said Friday.

In a radio interview, Sen. Francis Pangilinan said the fight against corruption would not succeed without a functioning and accountable justice system, stressing that abusive practices within the judiciary contribute to a culture of impunity.

“This is not just a corruption issue. This is also a justice system issue,” Pangilinan said, noting that while abusive politicians and anomalous public works projects are often exposed, accountability ultimately depends on judicial action.

Pangilinan, who chairs the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, lamented that some public officials charged with plunder in the past were eventually acquitted, weakening public trust in anti-corruption efforts.

“When it’s politicians, they are well known. When it’s public works, they are well known. But those who issue the acquittals — we don’t even know who they are,” Pangilinan said.

The senator said his remarks were not meant to vilify the entire judiciary, but to call attention to the need for transparency and accountability among judges, particularly in high-profile corruption cases.

Pangilinan also called on the Supreme Court to discipline and dismiss corrupt or abusive members.

While he may not get into the nitty gritty details he is expressing the same sentiment I have for years. Right now many politicians are in jail on unbailable charges.  Will they be convicted? The past says NO! And Pnagilinan says this is because the justice system is corrupt!

Insurgency: Loudspeaker Ops

The war against the NPA continues. After a clash in Northern Mindanao firearms and other material were recovered. 

https://www.mindanaotimes.com.ph/troops-recover-firearms-after-clash-with-communist-rebels-in-northern-mindanao-caraga/

TROOPS from the 36th Infantry Battalion exchanged fire with Communist Terrorist Group members in Barangay Cayale, Tago, Surigao del Sur, on Jan. 10, leading to the recovery of an M14 rifle, an M16 bolt carrier assembly, a rifle grenade, medical supplies, and various war materiel. 

The 4TH Infantry Division (4ID) report touted the military gains by degrading the guerrillas’ operational capabilities in the province.

Simultaneously, the 403rd Infantry Brigade facilitated the surrender of two former CTG members previously affiliated with the dismantled HQ Loader and GF89 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.

The surrenderers turned over an AK-47 rifle and are currently undergoing custodial debriefing and documentation to qualify for the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

In a joint statement, 403rd IB commander Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado and 401st IB acting commander Colonel Glenn Joy U. Aynera praised their troops for their professionalism and discipline.

“These operational gains and voluntary surrenders reflect the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and the strong support of local communities,” the statement said. 

They reiterated their call for the remaining insurgents to lay down their arms and participate in the government’s reintegration programs, emphasizing a continued commitment to sustaining peace and development in their areas of responsibility.

This happened in Surigao del Sur. The Army says they will be using loudspeakers to counter the influence of the NPA in the province. 

https://manilastandard.net/news/314691145/army-loudspeaker-ops-to-counter-npa-influence-in-surigao-sur.html

The Philippine Army said its recent use of loudspeakers mounted on military vehicles in parts of Surigao del Sur is part of a broader information campaign to counter misinformation and encourage communities to withdraw support for the New People’s Army (NPA).

Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala told Manila Standard the activity was intended to directly reach residents in remote areas with what the Army described as “truthful information,” amid continued efforts by communist terrorist groups to influence local communities.

Dema-ala said the initiative forms part of the Army’s ongoing drive to raise awareness about what it called the “real evils” of the NPA, including alleged deceptive recruitment tactics and the group’s impact on peace, security, and development in affected areas.

He said the Army believes that providing information to communities helps residents make informed choices and take an active role in promoting stability and progress in their localities.

“By informing the people, we empower communities to make informed decisions and actively participate in sustaining peace and progress in their areas,” he added.

It's not clear what the loudspeakers will say. Perhaps "surrender?"

The clash in Mindoro contineus to elicit respones. Claims that the civilians were killed are fabricated according to the government. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1266978

Claims that civilians, including children of the Iraya Mangyan tribe, were killed during the series of encounters between government troops and New People's Army (NPA) remnants on New Year's Day are a fabrication, the spokesperson of the 2nd Infantry Infantry Division (2ID) said on Wednesday.

Col. Michael Aquino, in a statement forwarded to reporters, said these fabricated claims deliberately ignore verified accounts from the ground and the voices of local communities themselves.

“These are serious accusations, yet they have not presented a single name, family, or community to support their claims. In contrast, local government officials, sitio leaders, and indigenous youth organizations in Abra de Ilog have spoken clearly and consistently — there were no civilian casualties," he added.

The official made this comment after noting that NPA supporters continue to parrot that two students and three Iraya Mangyan children were killed in the Jan. 1 military operations.

Aquino also said that these false narratives "mislead the public and disrespect the very communities they pretend to defend.'

The 2ID spokesperson also stressed that fabricating or exaggerating incidents undermines public trust and sows unnecessary fear among residents who are striving to preserve peace in their communities.

"The 2nd ID reiterated that the Jan. 1 operations were conducted in response to reports from residents themselves and were carried out with strict adherence to the protection of civilians," Aquino said.

The Army said only one NPA member was killed in the series of clashes.

Just because names have not been given does not mean the NPA is lying. They might not know the names. Of course they could be lying. 

The mother of an NPA rebel slain the clash who was  a student wants to sue a member of Congress. 

https://smninewschannel.com/mother-of-slain-youth-in-occidental-mindoro-seeks-justice-rep-renee-co-should-be-held-liable/

The mother of the late Jerlyn Doydora insisted that Kabataan Party-list Representative Renee Co should be held accountable for her daughter’s death in Occidental Mindoro, as a former CPP–NPA–NDF cadre warned of the alleged continuing recruitment of young people in schools.

“You, Renee Co! You are the leader of that shameless Kabataan Party-list! You should be held accountable because she was with you in the pictures—shame on you!” Merlinda Doydora, Mother of Jerlyn Doydora said.

Anger poured out from Merlinda Doydora toward Kabataan Party-list Representative Renee Co following the death of her daughter Jerlyn Doydora during an encounter between government troops and rebels in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro on January 1, 2026.

After the recent elections, Renee Co replaced former Kabataan Party-list Representative Raoul Manuel, who has repeatedly been named by former members and former CPP–NPA–NDF cadres as allegedly recruiting youth to join the New People’s Army (NPA).

In a Facebook post, Kabataan Party-list admitted that Jerlyn was a member of their organization, serving as part of the general secretariat. Photos also show Jerlyn together with Renee Co during rallies organized by Kabataan Party-list.

Merlinda earlier said that their family was unaware that their daughter had joined Kabataan Party-list, making her loss even harder to accept.

“I apologize if I said hurtful words, but what you did to Jerlyn is extremely painful for our whole family,’’ Merlinda Doydora, Mother of Jerlyn Doydora added.

For former rebel cadre Jeffrey “Ka-Eric” Celiz, the alleged recruitment pattern of rebel fronts is alarming, as it is reportedly carried out in schools, victimizing innocent youth.

“This pattern and indication are alarming because, I think, in the last two years on record, more than twenty young people were either captured or killed in encounters. They were recruited from schools and universities—not only in Manila but also in regions around the Philippines,’’ Jeffrey “Ka-Eric” Celiz, Former NPA Cadre said.

Celiz further alleged that the Makabayan bloc in Congress funds and recruits youth to become members of the NPA.

“They are not only recruiting; they are also funding it. This comes from my direct knowledge. I was part of the CPP–NPA–NDF for 20 years and 8 months. I know that the so-called Makabayan bloc was formed by the Communist Party, run and led by members and leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines, and that the Communist Party funds and operates the NPA,’’ Jeffrey “Ka-Eric” Celiz, Former NPA Cadre stated.

Regarding the family’s plan to file charges against Kabataan Party-list, Celiz said this should be supported by the government, alleging that the group’s actions constitute human trafficking and terrorism.

“That is very timely. I hope they will not be afraid and that the government’s legal team will support them, because that is correct. It can be part of a human trafficking case connected to terrorism,’’ he added.

Meanwhile, Toto Marquez, representative of KADRE MIMAROPA, said that naming groups and individuals allegedly involved in illegal recruitment, human trafficking, and terrorism—where youth and grieving mothers are the victims—does not constitute red-tagging.

“Don’t you feel sorry for the parents? For the youth? You say this is red-tagging?! How is this red-tagging? Kabataan Party-list and Karapatan Southern Tagalog do nothing but lie. Is this red-tagging when parents are crying and struggling?” Toto Marquez, Representative, KADRE MIMAROPA said.

In the end, Merlinda hopes that with the arrest of Filipino-American activist Chantal Anicoche, the circumstances surrounding her daughter’s death will finally be clarified.

“For me, I hope she cooperates and tells the truth, and that she can explain everything that really happened. I hope she does not lie,’’ Merlinda Doydora, Mother of Jerlyn Doydora said.

We are still not told which school she was recruited from. Was it a college? Was it a high school? Those facts would help in targeting recruiters. 

The NTF-ELCAC is calling for sobriety regarding the Fil-Am rescued after the operation. They say don't jump to conclusions especially that she is being detained by the AFP.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1266927

A ranking National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) official has urged the public to approach the case of Fil-American Chantal Anicoche, who was rescued by Army troopers in Occidental Mindoro last Jan. 8, with sobriety, restraint, and a clear sense of responsibility.

"This is not a matter for spectacle or online trial. This is about the safety of a young person, the integrity of our legal process, and the accountability of those who place young people like her in harm’s way," NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said in a statement Tuesday.

He said what is important is that Anicoche is safe, alive, safe, and receiving appropriate medical attention.

Torres said all government actions taken in Anicoche's behalf have been guided by existing laws, established protocols, and the duty of the State to protect life and dignity.

He added concerned government agencies are coordinating as required and due process safeguards are in place.

"We are aware of competing claims circulating online, including misinformed assertions about 'detention.' Facts will be established through documentation and verification, not through pressure, unfounded rumors, or performative outrage," the NTF-ELCAC official said.

Anicoche was reported missing following the clash between government troops and New People's Army (NPA) remnants in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro last Jan. 1. In the same Jan. 1 clash, a female student turned NPA was killed in the encounter with government forces.

Torres said what concerns the NTF-ELCAC the most is how young people like Anicoche, Jerlyn Doydora, and Stephanie Borinaga are funneled into conflict-affected areas where armed encounters inevitably occur.

"Who facilitated access, movement, lodging, and 'immersions'? Who normalized exposure to lethal risk under the language of advocacy or solidarity? These are legitimate questions that any responsible government must ask, precisely because young lives are at stake... Those who recruit, groom, facilitate, and enable entry into conflict zones must answer for the risks they impose on young people," he added.

Torres said for decades, recruitment and facilitation networks linked to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front have relied on "narratives that romanticize armed struggle while downplaying its human cost."

He said the task force remains committed to uphold human rights, due process, and transparency, including access to legal counsel, medical and psychosocial safeguards, and coordination with appropriate authorities.

"Misinformation does not protect youth, as it only obscures accountability. Genuine concern for young people demands honesty about how recruitment and facilitation operate, and the courage to confront those practices rather than deflect blame onto institutions performing their constitutional mandate," he added.

Meanwhile former rebels are claiming she was a rebel recruited from the USA.

https://smninewschannel.com/recruitment-ng-cpp-npa-sa-kabataan-sa-amerika-nagpapatuloy-former-rebel/

On January 1, an encounter took place between communist rebel groups and soldiers in Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro, where Jerlyn Rose Doydora was killed and Fil-Am activist Chantal Anicoche was captured, who is currently in military custody.

According to Arian Jane Ramos, a former CPP-NPA-NDF cadre, the captured Fil-Am Anicoche underwent the ongoing CPP-NPA-NDF program in the United States called the adopt a region program.

“The CPP-NPA is implementing an adopt a region program. In this program, there are foreign nationals Filipino Americans from various states in the U.S. as partido. They previously organized what is called adopt a region and they still continue to do this,” said Arian Jane Ramos, Head of Legal Affairs, Buklod Kapayapaan Federation Inc.

Some of the jobs that members of the group are required to do are propaganda work, fund raising, exposure missions and direct revolutionary integration, where Anicoche was included in the program.

“If we say revolutionary integration, this is what you go to the mountains to live in communities, you ask questions, what is called social class investigation analysis, ah social investigation and class analysis (SICA) that activists are talking about today,” Ramos added.

He added that this is what newly recruited students are usually asked to do when they go up to the mountains or to remote areas where indigenous people and farmers live with NPA rebels.

“You cannot join the NPA if you do not have connections to the NPA; the New People’s Army does not just accept you if you are not a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines or a member of the underground mass organization of the CPP-NPA-NDF,” he added.

If there are NPA recruitment programs in the USA and other countries that is a problem. That is something which needs to be worked out between the Philippines and the USA. Will it? Is it? The AFP has not publicly acknowledged the existence of this program yet. 

Filipina Worships Shrek

Filipinos are given over to idolatry. From Traslacion which is worship of the Black Nazarene to Sinulog which is worship of the Sto. Niño. Now it has been revealed that one Filipina has been worshipping a statue of Shrek for four years.

https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/article/3338886/filipino-woman-worships-green-statue-4-years-finds-out-it-animated-character-shrek

A woman in the Philippines spent four years worshipping a green Buddha statue before discovering that it was actually a 3D-printed figure of the cartoon character Shrek.

The woman’s misplaced faith has sparked amusement across social media.

The story began four years ago when the unidentified woman from Manila, the capital of the Philippines, bought a “Buddha statue” from a local shop.

With its round shape and gentle expression, she believed it to be a depiction of Buddha and treated it with great reverence.

She placed it in a prominent spot in her home altar and began worshipping it daily, offering incense and praying in the hope of receiving blessings.

However, a visiting friend noticed that the colour and facial features of the statue looked quite different from a typical Buddha.

Upon closer inspection, they discovered that the figure she had been devoutly worshipping was actually a 3D-printed model of Shrek, the fictional green ogre from the animated film Shrek, known for his intimidating appearance but kind heart.

On learning the truth, the woman was both amused and speechless.

Rather than feeling embarrassed or upset, she laughed and said that what truly mattered was the sincerity of her prayers, not the figure itself. She added that faith with good intentions mattered more than appearances.

She also said that she plans to continue worshipping the Shrek statue.

The incident sparked amusement on social media.

One person said: “This is honestly hilarious. She has gained merit, but I have just lost one point of merit.”

Another said: “Devotion and faith in God come from within. So what if she worshipped Shrek? What matters is that the devotion is sincere.”

“The moral of the story is that sometimes you need to watch cartoon films too,” said a third.

While a fourth person added: “Buddhism has long absorbed elements from various local folk beliefs, so it is not surprising or even shocking that someone might offer prayers to Shrek as a form of Buddha. If there is a Buddha in your heart, then that is Buddha.”

The incident echoes a similar case that happened in Premlok Park in Pune, India, last June, when water suddenly began gushing out of the trunk of a royal poinciana tree.

Locals mistook it for a divine miracle and flocked to the site to worship.

However, it was later revealed that the “holy water” was actually caused by a damaged underground pipe beneath the tree, which allowed water to seep up through its hollow trunk.

Did it really take four years until someone pointed out that this is a statue of Shrek? Did the shop owner not tell her? Did she not notice the antennae? Has she never seen an image of the ubiquitous Shrek? If this story is true it's incredibly funny. If it's fake it's still funny. Let's hope it's true!

The God Culture: The Feasts of Light Book Review

Timothy Jay Schwab who is The God Culture has released a nine-week study guide on how to keep the feasts titled The Feasts of Light. 

The subtitle, Obedience Over Sacrifice, is both brazen and hilarious. Brazen because Tim is openly teaching keeping the feasts without offering up sacrifices and hilarious because this is actually disobedience. The subtitle comes from 1 Samuel 15. 

20 And Saul said unto Samuel, Yea, I have obeyed the voice of the LORD, and have gone the way which the LORD sent me, and have brought Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites.

21 But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God in Gilgal.

22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

It's not clear why Tim thinks this verse supports him in his partial observance of the feasts. Samuel is not saying God doesn't desire sacrifice. He is saying that he does not want a sacrifice he did not command. Saul was seeking to sacrifice animals the LORD had demanded be slaughtered. Had he sacrificed them he would have been offering up strange fire like the sons of Aaron. The point is Saul was disobedient not that sacrifices are unimportant. 

On page 13 Tim writes: 

Partial obedience is complete rebellion disguised as worship.

The irony is thick as Tim denies the necessity of sacrifices in keeping the feasts. He is behaving exactly like Saul. 

The study guide is rather puzzling as Tim does not offer suggestions on how to keep the feasts in the guide itself. Instead the guide acts as a primer on the symbolic meaning of each feast and how Christ fulfills them. Ah, yes there's that word fulfill. It doesn't mean abolish or finished.

2 Ful􏰁lled Does Not Mean Finished

When Yahusha said He came to ful􏰁ll the Law, He used the Greek plēroō — “to fi􏰁ll to completion,” not “to abolish.”

A cup 􏰁filled to the brim is not discarded; it is complete and ready to be shared.

Each Feast 􏰁finds its fullest meaning in Him, yet the invitation to celebrate remains.

“To ful􏰁ll is to illuminate, not eliminate.”

pg. 23

Comparing the work of Christ to filling a cup with water is a horrible analogy. Bringing up the "fulfill does not mean abolish" bugbear is more of Tim's dishonesty. Pleroo means TO FINISH, to BRING TO AN END. He has been corrected on this before and refuses to learn. 

The Greek says fulfill, or pleroo, means "to complete."

https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g4137/kjv/tr/0-1/

πληρόω plēróō, play-ro'-o; from G4134; to make replete, i.e. (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute (an office), finish (a period or task), verify (or coincide with a prediction), etc.:—accomplish, after, (be) complete, end, expire, fill (up), fulfil, (be, make) full (come), fully preach, perfect, supply.

Christ completed the law. He finished the law and brought to an end by executing it fully. All the shadows of the law were perfected and brought to reality in and by Him. He is the Passover lamb sacrificed for us, He is God tabernacling in human flesh, He is the firstfruits from the dead, His blood is sprinkled on the mercy seat in Heaven making atonement for us, He sent the Holy Spirit on Pentecost just as He gave Moses the law on that same day, and on it goes as all the sacrifices and all the feasts and all the holy days are brought to their completion and fulfillment in Him. The book of Hebrews is very explicit that Christ completed the law by becoming incarnate and shedding his own blood for us. 

https://thegodculturephilippines.blogspot.com/2021/09/the-god-culture-rest-case-for-sabbath.html

The law is not abolished but remains a schoolmaster to lead us to Christ. 

Galatians 3:23 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.

24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.

The whole purpose of the law is to lead us to Christ. But Tim would have us all live in the shadows.

3 The Shadow and the Substance

Paul wrote: “These are a shadow of things to come, but the body is of Messiah.” (Col 2:16–17, cf. Heb 10:1)

A shadow proves light exists. We don’t destroy the shadow because the light appeared — we walk in it toward its source.

The Feasts remain the pattern of heavenly realities (Heb 8:5; Rev 21:23). The shadow does not disappear until the source is removed. Heaven is still there.

pg. 23

Sorry, but no. Jesus nailed the law to the cross. We are dead to the law and alive to Christ. 

Col 2:14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

Eph 2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

Hebrews 10:1 also serves Tim no purpose. 

For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.

If the shadow doesn't disappear then that means the sacrifices of the law, which were a shadow of Christ, are still to be offered up! But not even Tim is crazy enough to say that. He acknowledges that Christ put an end to sacrifices. However, that just makes his system illogical. There is no partial keeping of the law. We either keep the whole thing or none of it. That includes the sacrifices, the washings, the stonings, and all the rest. 

The New Testament doctrine of the law being fulfilled in Christ and Christians no longer being obligated to keep the Mosaic law, including the feasts, is well known. At this point it's like beating a dead horse. 

The most interesting part of this book is the end where Tim has a detailed worship plan for each feast.  The worship order for Passover is representative of the rest. 

PASSOVER (Pesach .1 פסח )
Evening Meal & Service (Sunset to Sunrise) — Feast Sabbath

(Cooking and Serving Allowed)

Service Elements:

Opening prayer of thanksgiving
Reading of Exodus 12 & the Gospels (Capture Narrative) 

Consumption of bitter herbs as commanded (unleavened bread included)  

Meal with any clean meat (no sacrifices — Messiah is the Lamb) 

Foot-washing (optional, John 13)
Family testimonies
“This do in remembrance of Me” (The original Communion) Close with worship

Notes:

Scripture shows households contributing (Ex. 12:3–4); shared meal is appropriate.

Absolutely no lamb sacrifice — Yahusha ful􏰁lled it once for all. Menu only specifies the inclusion of Bitter Herbs signifying the bitterness of slavery in Egypt.

pg. 64

First of all that is not how God commands Passover to be kept. A sacrificed lamb is the very essence of the feast. To say that Yahusha fulfilled the sacrifice and yet demand the feast still be kept is schizophrenic. The feast cannot be both fulfilled and not fulfilled. 

It should not be forgotten that everything Tim does finds its telos in restoring the Philippines as the most important land in the world. It is in this land that the law of God will be restored in full and that includes the feasts. Here is his declaration. 

Today, we stand as one people — humbled, awakened, and ready — as Yahuah calls the Philippines to restore His ways, His rhythms, and His Appointed Times.

For generations, our nation inherited calendars, traditions, and celebrations that obscured the very Feasts Yahuah commanded for His people. Not in rebellion — but in innocence.
Not in de􏰀fiance — but in inheritance.

Not because pastors failed — but because a strong delusion swept across the earth as Scripture foretold.

But now, the veil is lifting.
Truth is returning.
The ancient paths are being restored.

And the Philippines is rising to answer the call.

WE DECLARE

1. The Feasts of Yahuah belong to His people forever.

Not as rituals, not as burdens, but as celebrations of covenant, identity, and truth.

2. Yahusha is the center and ful􏰃fillment of every Feast — not the abolition of them.

Fulfilled does not mean forgotten. Fulfilled does not mean erased. Fulfilled means brought to fullness.

3. We honor the example of the Apostles, especially Paul, who kept and taught the Feasts after the resurrection.

4. We reject the counterfeits, replacements, and occult mixtures introduced by man-made systems.

We return to Scripture — not tradition.

5. We restore what Yahuah commanded for all generations:

Passover, Unleavened Bread, First Fruits, Shavuot, Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles, the Last Great Day, and His Weekly Sabbath.

WE CALL UPON THE NATION

Pastors — to lead without fear.
Families — to teach these truths to their children.
Worship teams — to 􏰀ll the nation with songs of the Mo’edim. Congregations — to awaken to the rhythm of Heaven.
Youth and students — to rise as restorers of ancient truth.

THIS IS OUR DECLARATION

The Year of Restoration has begun —
and the Philippines will rise to restore the Biblical Feasts of Yahuah.

From Luzon to Visayas to Mindanao, from the mountains to the islands, from churches to homes,
from pastors to children —

the Philippines returns to the ancient paths. And the Remnant follows worldwide.

This is our time.
This is our calling.
This is our identity.
This is the Restoration of the Mo’edim.

Let us make this the year the Philippines — as a nation — begins to restore the Biblical Feasts and return to the Appointed Times of Yahuah.

pg. 59-60

This is quite literally Tim's declaration of war against history, geography, theology, and the Filipino people. For Tim to lead Filipinos into keeping the law, especially in partial obedience, is to lead them away from Christ and towards death. The Philippines does not need another phony, false teacher such as Timothy Jay Schwab who is The God Culture.