The God Culture: Fernando Pinto Says China, Japan, and the Lequios Islands Are In The North

In a previous article I examined Pinto's journal for every reference to the Philippines. This time I will be looking at references to the Ryukyu Islands (that's the Lequios Islands) which show beyond all doubt that they are not Batanes, Luzon, or anywhere else in the Philippines. As of this writing Timothy Jay Schwab who is The God Culture has not mentioned these passages or offered an explanation of them. It's highly probable that when he reads this article he will be encountering them for the first time.

                                               

The first reference from Pinto places the Lequios Islands in the north along with China and Japan. If the Lequios Islands are the Philippines why would Pinto mention them separately from other Southeastern Asian locales and placing them in the north? 

However, before I go any further, I thought it necessary to relate the outcome of the Achinese war and what they eventually accomplished with their huge armada, the point being to provide a basis for understanding the reason for my gloomy predictions and why I have been so worried all along about our fortress in Malacca, whose importance to the State of India has apparently been forgotten by those who, by right, should remember it most; for the way I see it, and it stands to reason, we have no alternative but to destroy the Achinese or face up to the fact that, because of them, we will eventually lose the entire area to the south, which includes Malacca, Banda, the Moluccas, Sunda, Borneo, and Timor, to say nothing of the area to the north, China, Japan, the Ryukyus, and many other countries and ports where the Portuguese, thanks to the intercourse and commerce they engage in, are assured of far better prospects for earning a living than in any or all of the other nations discovered beyond the Cape of Good Hope, an area so vast that its coastline extends for more than three thousand leagues, as anyone can see by looking at the respective maps and charts, provided, of course, that they are accurately drawn. 

pg. 46

Here it is in the first English and original Portuguese versions.

https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=nc01.ark:/13960/t0ns8c57t&seq=50&q1=lequios

https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=uc1.a0005237763&seq=116&q1=

This passage effectively and singlehandedly refutes Tim's claim that Pinto located the Lequios Islands in the region of the Philippines. There is nothing ambiguous about the passage. Ryukyu is located in the north along with Japan and China. If Tim claims north is ambiguous, then what does that say about Japan and China? Is their northern location relative to the Moluccas and Borneo to be disputed as ambiguous?

This description of Ryukyu's location also affirms what Pinto writes about the Lequios Islands being situated at 29°N.

This Ryukyu island is situated at twenty-nine degrees latitude.

Pinto, pg. 300, Rebecca Catz, translator

There is no ambiguity here. Tim's solution of making this a range of places between 9° and 20° contradicts the plain words as well as the previous passage which explicitly says the Lequios are in the north along with Japan and China.

This passage locating the Lequios Islands in the north near Japan and China also lends weight to Pinto's claim that he could see Japan from the Lequios Islands. 

We proceeded on our voyage in the battered condition we were in, and three days later we were struck by a storm that blew over the land with such fierce gusts of wind that that same night we were driven out of sight of the shore. And since by then we were unable to approach it again, we were forced to make with full sail for the island of the Ryukyus where this pirate was well known to both the king and the other people there. With this in view we sailed ahead through the islands of this archipelago, but since at this time we were without a pilot, ours having been killed in the recent battle, and the northeast winds were blowing head on, and the currents were running strong against us, we went tacking with great effort from one board to the other for twenty-three days until finally, at the end of that time, our Lord brought us within sight of land. Coming in closer to see if it showed any sign of an inlet or harbor with good anchorage, we noticed a huge fire burning over to the south, almost at a level with the horizon. This led us to believe that it was probably inhabited and that there might be people there who would sell us water, which we were running short of.

As we were anchoring opposite the island in seventy fathoms of water, two small canoes with six men on board came rowing out from shore. They came alongside, and after an exchange of greetings and courtesies in their fashion, they asked us whence the junk had come. Our answer was that we had come from China, bringing merchandise to trade with them, if they would give us leave to do so. One of them replied that as long as we paid the duties that were customarily charged in Japan, which was the name of that big land mass outlined ahead of us, the nautoquim, lord of that island of would readily grant us permission. He followed this up by Tanegashima, telling us everything else that we needed to know and showed us the port where we were supposed to anchor. 

pg. 274

Again, there is no ambiguity here. The Lequios Islands are in the north, located at 29°, and Japan can be seen from there. Taken together these three sections from Pinto's journal decidedly refute Tim's claim the Lequios Islands are the Philippines. There is simply no getting around these passages except to ignore them by claiming the plain text of the Portuguese is ambiguous, the translations are flawed, and Pinto is unreliable. That has been Tim's method every time he encounters a passage in Pinto that contradicts him.  

The next passage says that Pinto encountered a Ryukyu Island junk that was carrying a "prince of the island of Tosa, which lies at latitude thirty-six degrees." 

Keeping to our course for seven days, we came in sight of an island called Pulo Condore at eight and one-third degrees north latitude that lay almost northwest by southeast with the bar of Cambodia; and after rounding it completely we discovered a good anchorage called Bralapisão on the eastern side, a little over six leagues from the mainland. And there we found a Ryukyu Island junk that was bound for Siam with an ambassador on board from the nautaquim of Lindau, prince of the island of Tosa, which lies at latitude thirty-six degrees, who immediately got under way when he saw us. 

pg. 68

Rebecca Catz, a noted translator and scholar of Pinto's journal, has a comment on Tosa.

Tosa: Former name of the Japanese island of Shikoku, and name of a former province on south Shikoku Island, now Kochi Prefecture. Home of the influential Tosa clan.

If the Lequios Islands are the Philippines, why would a ship from islands hundreds of miles south be transporting a northern Japanese prince, latitude 36°, from Shikoku to Siam? The geography and political context make this scenario implausible.

In this next passage Pinto relates a story about Antonio de Faria in the Chinese port of Ning-po. He mentions the presence of Ryukyu Islanders "seeking the protection of the Portuguese against the pirates infesting those waters." 

Antonio de Faria embarked on this lanteia and when he arrived at the pier there was a deafening racket of trumpets, shawms, timbals, fifes and drums, and many other instruments used by the Chinese, Malays, Chams, Siamese, Borneans, Ryukyu Islanders, and other nations who came to that port seeking the protection of the Portuguese against the pirates infesting those waters.

pg. 131

If the Lequios Islands are the Philippines what are Filipinos doing in China "seeking the protection of the Portuguese against the pirates infesting those waters?" When did Filipino sailors ever seek the protection of the Portuguese from pirates in Chinese waters?

In the next passage Pinto refers to the capital city of the Ryukyus, Pangor, as being the capital of a great kingdom.

One should not imagine for a moment that it is anything like Rome, Constantinople, Venice, Paris, London, Seville, Lisbon, or any of the great cities of Europe, no matter how famous or populous. Nor should one imagine that it is like any of the cities outside of Europe, such as Cairo in Egypt, Tauris in Persia, Amadabad in Cambay, Bisnaga in Narsinga, Gour in Bengal, Ava in Chaleu, Timplão in Calaminhan, Martaban and Bagou in Pegu, Guimpel and Tinlau in Siammon, Ayuthia in the Sornau, Pasuruan and Demak on the island of Java, Pangor in the Ryukyus, Uzangué in Greater Cochin, Lançame in Tartary, or Miyako in Japan—all capitals of great kingdoms; for I dare say that all of them put together cannot compare with the least thing, let alone the sum total of all the grandiose and sumptuous things that make up this great city of Peking, such as magnificent buildings, infinite wealth, excessive and overwhelming abundance of all the necessities of life, people, trade and countless ships, orderly government, justice, tranquil court life, the great state in which the tutões, chaens, anchacys, aytaos, puchancys, and bracalões live, for all of them are extremely high paid governors of very large kingdoms and provinces. 

pg. 218

At what point was there ever a Filipino Kingdom worthy of such renown as to have one of the great capitals of the world? Of Pangor Tim gives the following fake Filipino etymology.

Pungor Place Name:

• Pinto describes being taken to "Pungor," the capital city where he and his companions were judged.

• No town or port named "Pungor" exists in Ryukyu historical or linguistic records.

• However, in the Batanes Islands of the Philippines, "pungor" or "pongor" is an ancient Ivatan word meaning "meeting place," "gathering hall," or "assembly court" — fitting Pinto’s description perfectly.

• This linguistic and cultural match further confirms Pinto was describing an area around Northern Luzon and the Batanes/Babuyan Islands, not Okinawa.

https://thegodculturephilippines.com/correcting-cortes%C3%A3o-lopo-homem-the-colonial-remapping-of-the-lequios-islands/

Tim says Pangor "is an ancient Ivatan word" for "meeting place," "gathering hall," or "assembly court." But Pinto described Pangor as the capital city of a great kingdom, one of several across Asia. Tim's proposed etymology does not fit the political context Pinto describes. He also does not link to his dictionary of ancient Ivasasy so this claim cannot be verified. 

Next, Pinto mentions a particular Chinese religious sect, as well as other "barbaric sects", that had spread all the way to the Lequios Islands. 

This religious sect, as well as all the other barbaric sects of China—which, from what I have learned from them, number thirty-two altogether, as I have mentioned several times before—reached Siam from the kingdom of Pegu and were spread from there by priests and cabizondos throughout all the mainland countries of Cambodia, Champa, Laos, the Gueos, the Pafuás, the empire of Uzangué, Cochinchina, and over to the archipelago of the islands of Hainan, the Ryukyus, and Japan, as far as the borders of Miyako and Bandou, infecting with the poison of their herpes as great a part of the world as did the cursed sect of Mohammed.

pg. 231

Rebecca Catz says this is a reference to Buddhism. 

 religious sect: A confused reference to Buddhism and a pantheon of minor deities

Later on, after being shipwrecked in the Lequios Islands, Pinto mentions being imprisoned in a Pagoda in the town of Sipautor. 

Close to sundown we reached a good-sized village of over five hundred house-holds called Sipautor, where we were immediately placed in one of the temples of their worship, a pagoda that was surrounded by a very high wall, and put under guard of over a hundred men, who could be heard shouting and beating the drums throughout the night, during which each one of us got as much rest as the time and circumstances permitted.

pg. 289

Pagodas are associated with Chinese religions like Buddhism and Taosim. If the Lequios Islands are the Philippines where are the ancient Philippine Pagodas? 

Timothy Jay Schwab says the ancient Philippine Pagodas in Batanes are known as Ijangs.

The blogger arrogantly asks, “Where are the pagodas in Batanes?”—as if his failure to conduct a basic Google search justifies mocking the entire region and our research. But the egg is on his face.

In fact, Batanes is home to ancient fortified settlements called “ijang”, built atop hills with stone fortifications, ceremonial areas, and religious functions. Four have been found in Batanes. These were not only strategic but spiritual centers—and in archaeological studies, they have been compared directly to the Gusuku Castles of Okinawa, the very structures tied to “pagodas” in Japanese tradition. Wow!!! Another illiterate accusation flies as most are from that agitator incapable of even basic Google searches.

https://thegodculturephilippines.com/pinto-the-typhoon-and-the-blogger-who-can-t-read-a-storm/

Hilltop fortresses in Batanes which resemble Okinawan castles are ancient Philippine Pagodas? That doesn't fit what Pinto said.

Close to sundown we reached a good-sized village of over five hundred house-holds called Sipautor, where we were immediately placed in one of the temples of their worship, a pagoda that was surrounded by a very high wall,

After reaching a large village Pinto and his men are placed inside a TEMPLE, i.e a pagoda, surrounded by a very high wall. That does not describe the hilltop fortresses of Batanes. 

The Ivatan traditionally lived in the ijang which were fortified mountain areas and drank sugar-cane wine, or palek. 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ijang

The people of Sipautor were not living inside the pagoda. They were living inside a town which was outside of the pagoda. The Ivatan people lived inside their ijangs. Clearly a temple, a pagoda as Pinto calls it, is not an ijang or hilltop fortress. 

Tim accuses me of not having done a basic Google search which is not true. I did search for Philippine pagodas while writing a previous article. Ijang's did not return as a search result. One and only one relevant hit came up.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ma-Cho_Temple

The Ma-Cho, Mazu or Ma Cho Temple (simplified Chinese: 菲律滨隆天宫; traditional Chinese: 菲律濱隆天宮; pinyin: Fēilǜbīn Lóngtiān Gōng; Pe̍h-ōe-jī: Hui-li̍p-pin Liông Thiⁿ-keng) is a Taoist temple to the Chinese Sea-Goddess Mazu located on Quezon Avenue in Barangay II, San Fernando, La Union in the Philippines. It was built in 1977 by a group of Filipino-Chinese devotees under the leadership of Dy Keh Hio and with the support of former Tourism Secretary Jose D. Aspiras.

Lonely Planet refers to this as Ma-Cho Pagoda but it was built in 1977. The fact is there are no ancient Philippine pagodas. However there are, or were, mosques built in the style of a pagoda.

Ancient Filipinos and Filipinos who continue to adhere to the indigenous Philippine folk religions generally do not have so-called "temples" of worship under the context known to foreign cultures. However, they do have sacred shrines, which are also called as spirit houses. They can range in size from small roofed platforms, to structures similar to a small house (but with no walls), to shrines that look similar to pagodas, especially in the south where early mosques were also modeled in the same way. 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indigenous_Philippine_shrines_and_sacred_grounds

A mosque that looks like a pagoda is not a pagoda.

Here's a picture of a pagoda-like Mosque which was in Lanao del Sur. This is a before and after picture.

https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=123478723389586&id=103234338747358&_rdr

According to a Philstar article written in 2014 this Mosque is 300 years old which means it was built sometime around 1714. 

Within the municipality is where Baab Ur-Rahman Masjid, the oldest mosque in Lanao, is found.

The Masjid, which is almost 300 years old to date, is one of the earliest historical landmarks of Islam in the Philippines and is the second earliest mosque built in the country.

https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2014/06/16/1335294/taraka-lanao-del-surs-cultural-hotspot

That post-dates Pinto which makes it irrelevant. It is not clear why some Mosques were built like pagodas.

One of the earliest types of mosques in Lanao is a five-tiered building resembling a Chinese pagoda. A variation of this type is a three-tiered  or seven-tiered edifice.

As of the moment, there is no exact explanation why the earliest types of mosques in Lanao look like a Chinese pagoda, What is certain is that some Maranaos are proud to possess Chinese jars as posaka. This is evidence of the strong Chinese influence among the Maranaos, some of whom are proud to trace their descent to Chinese ancestors.

https://ncca.gov.ph/about-culture-and-arts/in-focus/a-look-at-philippine-mosques/

The author of this article concludes by noting that Timothy Jay Schwab did not write the article about Ivatan ijangs being Philippine pagodas.

Note: Timothy did not even write this blog.

If that is true then it is proof that The God Culture Research Team is very incompetent. Imagine comparing a hilltop fortress with a pagoda. It doesn't match the context of Pinto's journal in the slightest. Earlier Tim wrote that Sipautor means "a burnt field where children play" but now apparently, with the context of the pagoda, it's a hilltop fortress. 

This reveals a common pattern of behavior Tim engages in when he is informed of something in a passage that contradicts him. Instead of reading the whole passage to determine the context he isolates that one thing and spins it. When it turns out his spin does not conform to the context of the passage in question he has to spin it again. If Tim had interpreted the passage in question holistically, including the name and size  of the town along with the existence of a pagoda, instead of attempting to interpret them in isolation from one another he might have a better thesis. As it stands this kind of inconsistent and arbitrary analysis of Pinto's journal undermines Tim's credibility and the credibility of any research team. 

While Buddhism did find its way to the Philippines it has never been a majority Buddhist country or part of the larger Buddhist sphere of influence. 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism_in_the_Philippines#/media/File:Buddhist_Expansion.svg

If the Lequios Islands are the Philippines why does Pinto describe them as being infected with Chinese Buddhism? An infection indicates a significant presence of Buddhism in the Lequios Islands. There has never been a significant presence of Buddhism in the Philippines. 

The final reference to the Ryukyu Islands to consider concerns a festival for the dead. The Ryukyus call it Champas.

And we, in the same way, spent our time now on one thing, then on another, though most of the time we just looked, listened, and asked questions about the laws, pagodas, and sacrificial rites we observed there, which were extremely fearsome and terrifying, only five or six of which I will describe, as I have already done in other instances, because I believe that should be enough to give one an idea of what the others are like that I will not describe.

One of them took place at the time of the new moon in December, which fell on the ninth day of the month. It is the day on which these heathens are accustomed to celebrate a festival called Massunterivó by the people of this land, Forió by the Japanese, Manejó by the Chinese, Champas by the Ryukyus, Ampalitor by the Cochinese, and Sansaporau by the Siamese, Burmese, Pafuas, and the Çacotais; so that even though, because of the diversity of their languages, the names in themselves are different, they all mean one and the same thing in our language, which is “remembrance of all the dead.” This festival we saw them celebrate here on this day, with so many different things never before imagined that I cannot decide with which one of them to begin, because the very thought of them, coupled with the blindness of these wretched people, in such disparagement of the honor of God, is enough to make a man fall speechless.

pg. 339

If the Lequios Islands are the Philippines then what is this festival for the dead celebrated on the 9th day of December called Champas which is shared with the Chinese, Japanese, Siamese, and Burmese? 

Taken together, these references in Pinto’s journal, geographically, culturally, politically, and linguistically, leave no room for equating the Lequios Islands with the Philippines. Each detail affirms that Pinto was referring to the Ryukyu Kingdom, centered on Okinawa, not Batanes or Luzon. Tim's conflation of these regions rests on selective interpretation and a disregard for the broader historical and textual context detailed in Pinto's journal. 

The first reference is especially damning to Tim's thesis as it explicitly places the Lequios in the north and verifies two other passages about the Lequios being near Japan. Likewise, Pinto's claim of a significant Buddhist presence in the Lequios Islands is also damaging to Tim's claims because the Philippines has never been predominantly Buddhist. Brushing these references off as being ambiguous in the Portuguese or flawed in translation or casting doubt on Pinto's reliability would be to not take seriously or engage with the textual evidence in a meaningful way and does not answer the questions raised in this article.  And to be clear, the answer to these questions is not, "let's do some Google searches and twist the results to fit the Philippines." The answer to these questions is, "because the Lequios Islands are not in the Philippines." 

Retards in the Government 449

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

 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/12/18/16-eastern-samar-cops-sacked-for-drinking-during-christmas-party

The chief of police of Dolores town, Eastern Samar province, 15 police officers, and a non-uniformed personnel (NUP) were relieved from their posts following a viral photo of them drinking inside the police station during their Christmas party on Tuesday, Dec. 16.

Police Lt. Col. Analiza Armeza, regional public information officer of the Police Regional Office-8, confirmed their removal, and maintained that drinking inside the police station, especially while on duty and during a Christmas party, is clearly a violation of existing rules and regulations in the Philippine National Police.

PRO-8 Director Police Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy has ordered an investigation of the incident.

Relieved personnel were placed under the Provincial Holding and Accounting Unit.

Capoy expressed dismay over the incident, citing that despite constant reminders, a few of them failed to practice caution in their actions.

He assured accountability for the incident.

16 cops have been relived for drinking liquor in their station. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2155754/coa-faults-da-as-lack-of-food-kills-52-goats

The Commission on Audit (COA) has called out the Department of Agriculture (DA) for “inadequate management oversight” after more than half of 101 goats procured for a goat production project died due to the lack of proper animal feed.

Based on COA’s annual audit report on the DA for 2024, the 52 goats with a book value of over P2.438 million died last year. The animals were part of the Anglo Nubian and Saanen Goat Production Project under the agriculture department’s Pangasinan Research and Experiment Center in Sual, Pangasinan (PREC).

The 52 were among 101 goats, composed of 68 Anglo-Nubian and 33 Saanen breeder goats. They died while under the custody of the DA’s designated accountable officer (AO), whom the COA said had filed 41 requests for relief from accountability.

“These losses had a total book value of P2,438,200.00,” state auditors said.

According to COA, necropsy reports confirmed that the animals died of various illnesses and diseases, with affidavits from the AO and farm staff saying the goats had shown signs of malnutrition and weakened immune systems, and were “unable to withstand environmental stress and natural calamities.”

State auditors found other issues surrounding the project, including the nonallocation of funds under the maintenance and other operating expenses that began in 2023 and led to the absence of provisions for animal feed.

As a remedy, the PREC chief and the AO had to utilize surplus or excess feed supplies from the National Livestock Program (NLP), supplementing these with grasses, foliage and legumes in order to sustain the goats.

“Additionally, the AO deployed manpower in Lot 1 to take care of and maintain the animals,” COA said. “The AO justified his actions as an exercise of the diligence of a good father of a family.”

The DA’s Ilocos Region office, which has jurisdiction over the goats, told state auditors that the animals were procured under the locally-funded project (LFP) called “Strengthening the Agro-industrial Incubation Program in Region I through Crop-Livestock Diversification.”

Being an LFP, it was not included under the DA’s regular programs, activities and projects or PAPs.

The COA acknowledged that the DA tried to propose funding for the project under the 2023 and 2024 National Expenditure Programs to sustain and expand its impact, but these were not included in the General Appropriations Acts for the said years.

Citing their interview with the AO, state auditors noted that the supply of animal feed sourced from the NLP was “delivered intermittently” during the first semester of 2024 due to procurement delays attributed to the DA’s Ilocos Region office.

The delivered animal feed was only made available around June 2024, with no additional allocation of NLP feed provided to the goats during the second semester of the year, COA said.

The AO then had to resort to a temporary measure, which was to use grasses, forages and legumes to sustain the animals, but these alternatives were “insufficient to meet their nutritional requirements.”

Despite this, state auditors pointed out that the AO still has the responsibility of informing the DA about critical concern,s such as the shortage of animal feed.

The AO, however, was able to raise the issue during management committee meetings held at the DA’s Ilocos Region office in 2023 when the feed supplies began to run low.

“On the other hand, management (DA) holds the primary responsibility for ensuring that essential inputs, particularly animal feed, are adequately considered in the agency’s budget and that project implementation is carried out effectively,” COA said.

It cited rules under Presidential Decree No. 1445, or the Government Auditing Code, which states that persons entrusted with the possession or custody of funds or property under the agency “shall be immediately responsible to him without prejudice to the liability of either party to the government.”

The law also states that the head of a government agency is “immediately and primarily responsible for all government funds and property pertaining to his agency.”

For COA, the failure on the part of the DA to hold primary responsibility over the goats “reflects a lapse in planning and oversight,” which it said was not in accordance with PD 1445.

State auditors recommended that funds should be allocated for the Anglo-Nubian and Saanen Goat Production Project by integrating these into the DA’s regular PAPs.

They also asked the DA to instruct its designated PREC chief to “identify and properly document the specific requirements for animal feed, medicine, and other essentials” and to regularly report these needs to the regional office for appropriate action.

A review on the goat production project should also be initiated by the DA, “considering the possibility of distributing the remaining goats to qualified beneficiaries or transferring them to other suitable projects.”

The DA should also ensure the installation of a monitoring and oversight system to guarantee the proper implementation of livestock management plans.

The DA’s Ilocos Region office, meanwhile, told auditors that fund allocation for the procurement of animal feeds, specifically for the goats, has been included in the project and budget proposal for 2025.

The PREC chief and the designated resident veterinarian are also committed to identifying and compiling specific requirements for the goats. 

The COA has called out the DA for starving to death a herd of goats.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2156420/police-colonel-relieved-from-post-after-assaulting-patrolman

The Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) on Thursday said it relieved a police colonel from his post after he allegedly assaulted a patrolman and pointed a gun at him.

Citing initial reports, the PNP said the incident involved a police colonel, the former chief of the HPG Investigation Management Division, and a police patrolman assigned to the Regional Highway Patrol Unit–National Capital Region Intelligence Branch.

The police colonel allegedly assaulted the patrolman following a dispute over unauthorized parking at the HPG parking lot in Camp Crame, Quezon City. The incident was caught on video and has since circulated online.

According to the PNP, the assault involved kicking, pointing a firearm, and striking the patrolman’s head and upper lip with the firearm butt, resulting in injuries confirmed through a medico-legal examination.

PNP-HPG Director PBGen. Hansel Marantan ordered a swift investigation into the incident.

“As a precautionary measure, the police colonel was relieved from his post and reassigned to HRMDDD-PHAS (Human Resource Management and Doctrine Development Division–PNP Headquarters Administrative Service), and his firearm was surrendered and accounted for,” the PNP said in a statement.

“The new Investigation Management Division chief has been directed to determine probable cause and the filing of appropriate administrative and criminal complaints in accordance with National Police Commission Memorandum Circular No. 2016-002,” it added.

The PNP reiterated its commitment to discipline, professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights, assuring the public that due process will be strictly observed in the investigation.

It also appealed to the public to refrain from speculation, warning that this may undermine the integrity of the investigative process.

A police colonel has been relieved from his post after he allegedly assaulted a patrolman and pointed a gun at him.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/12/20/village-chair-son-in-law-arrested-for-selling-fake-land-title

A barangay chairman and his son-in-law were arrested for allegedly selling a fake land title in Barangay Caliraya here on Thursday.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-Laguna identified the suspects as barangay chairman Silvino and son-in-law Albert.

A woman bought a 300-square-meter lot from the suspects but the property’s titles turned out to be fake when the victim conducted a verification at the municipal and the provincial assessor’s offices.

She also found out that the lot had a legitimate owner.

Silvino asked P500,000 initial payment from the victim and the amount be paid at the barangay hall at 2 p.m. on Thursday.

The victim sought help from the police who planned an entrapment operation.

The suspects were arrested after receiving the marked money.

Recovered from the suspects were the marked money and an undocumented 9mm pistol, caliber 40mm, and bullets.

The suspects are in the custody of the CIDG and face appropriate cases.

A barangay chairman and his son-in-law were arrested for allegedly selling a fake land title.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/12/21/2495869/tuba-police-chief-sacked-over-lapses

The police chief of the Tuba Municipal Police Station in Benguet has been relieved from his post over alleged investigation lapses into the death of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, the Philippine National Police confirmed yesterday.

PNP public information office chief Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said Maj. Peter Camsol was relieved as Tuba police chief based on findings by the Police Regional Office-Cordillera Administrative Region.

The regional police office, Tuaño said, found the Tuba police “remiss in securing pieces of evidence” in the conduct of the investigation.

The police chief of the Tuba Municipal Police Station in Benguet has been relieved from his post over alleged investigation lapses into the death of former Department of Public Works and Highways undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/12/23/2496210/recto-former-philhealth-boss-face-plunder-raps

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and former Philippine Health Insurance Corp. president Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. are facing plunder charges before the Office of the Ombudsman over the transfer of P60 billion in “excess” PhilHealth funds to the national treasury.

Apart from plunder, complainant Save the Philippines Coalition also urged the ombudsman to investigate Recto and Ledesma for possible violation of

 Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and for technical malversation under Article 220 of the Revised Penal Code.

The advocacy group said Recto and Ledesma must also be held administratively liable for grave misconduct.

The complaint was signed by Save the Philippines Coalition members Irene Caballes, Elmer Jugalbot, Gerlyn Ogong, Emerita Pecson, Susan Villar, Mussolini Lidasan, Jose Jessie Olivar and Jaime Miralles.

The complainants cited the recent ruling of the Supreme Court declaring the P60-billion transfer of PhilHealth’s excess funds to the national treasury as unconstitutional and ordered its return to the state insurer through the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

The complainants said Recto and Ledesma pushed through with the fund transfer despite existing laws explicitly prohibiting the return of PhilHealth’s Reserve Funds to the general fund of the government.

The complainants cited Section 11 of RA 11223 or the Universal Health Care Act (UHCA), which requires PhilHealth to maintain reserve funds up to a ceiling equivalent to two years of projected program expenses.

The complainants pointed out that under Section 11 of UHCA, any excess from the reserve fund ceiling shall not be returned to the national treasury but must instead be used by PhilHealth to increase program benefits for members or decrease the amount of members’ contributions.

The complainants also cited Section 27 of RA 7875 or the National Health Insurance Act of 1995, which established PhilHealth, stating that no reserve funds of the state-owned health insurance firm shall be transferred elsewhere except to income-generating investments, which must benefit PhilHealth members.

The complainants specifically wanted Recto to be held liable for his issuance of Department of Finance (DOF) Circular No. 003-2024 during his term as finance secretary, which included P89 billion in reserve funds of PhilHealth as among the reserve funds of government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) ordered transferred to the national treasury.

The complainants said Ledesma must be held liable with Recto as he acquiesced to the lattter’s “unlawful directive.” 

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and former Philippine Health Insurance Corp. president Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. are facing plunder charges before the Office of the Ombudsman over the transfer of P60 billion in “excess” PhilHealth funds to the national treasury.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2158524/bukidnon-village-leader-killed-in-festival-shooting

A sub-village leader was killed while his wife was wounded in a shooting incident that marred the Christmas season and a major cultural festival in Barangay Aglayan here on Monday night, December 22.

Police identified the fatality as Richard Calo Rama, 48, chairman of Purok 4A, who was declared dead on arrival at a hospital. His wife, Trexie Mae del Campo Regacho, 41, sustained gunshot wounds and is undergoing treatment. Both are residents of the area.

Barangay Aglayan Kagawad Peter John Pepito told reporters that the couple was riding their motorcycle past 9:20 p.m. after watching a basketball game when they were allegedly followed by an unidentified suspect.

The shooting occurred along Sayre Highway in Purok 4A.

The gunman fled in an unknown direction after the attack.

The incident happened as Barangay Aglayan was celebrating its 2nd Binaki Festival, held from December 21 to December 23. The annual event honors binaki, a traditional corn-based delicacy symbolizing the village’s culture and livelihood.

The attack also coincided with the Christmas season, casting a pall over the festive activities.

A village leader was assassinated and his wife was injured in a gun attack.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2157932/sc-upholds-conviction-of-three-cops-in-kian-delos-santos-murder

The Supreme Court has affirmed the conviction of three police officers involved in the killing of 17-year-old Kian delos Santos during a drug bust operation in Caloocan City in 2017.

In a 40-page decision, the high court’s Second Division denied the appeals of Arnel Oares, Jeremias Pereda, and Jerwin Cruz, affirming their conviction for murder.

The three were sentenced to reclusion perpetua, or up to 40 years of imprisonment, and were ordered to pay delos Santos’ heirs P275,000 in damages.

Court records showed that witnesses saw the police officers stop and frisk delos Santos in Barangay Baesa, Caloocan City, on the evening of August 16, 2017.

After allegedly finding suspected drugs, the officers punched the teenager. 

Delos Santos cried and begged to be allowed to go home, telling them he had an exam the next day.

The officers then forced him to hold a towel covering what appeared to be a gun and made him stand with his shirt raised to cover his head.

Witnesses later heard one officer ask whether they should bring Kian to the police station, to which the others replied, “let us put him down.”

The officers dragged delos Santos toward a dark area near a river, where he was shot multiple times by Oares and Pereda. Cruz stood guard during the shooting.

In their defense, the police officers claimed they were responding to reports of illegal drug activity in the area and alleged that shots were fired at them, prompting Oares to chase the supposed shooter and return fire.

Both the Regional Trial Court and the Court of Appeals earlier convicted the officers of murder and imposed the penalty of reclusion perpetua without eligibility for parole.

In the ruling penned by Associate Justice Jhosep Lopez, the Supreme Court affirmed the lower courts’ findings that treachery attended the killing.

The high court cited the testimony of the medico-legal officer, who said delos Santos was likely in a sitting or kneeling position when he was shot.

“Therefore, when Kian was shot, he was not in a position to defend himself. Next, We note that the prosecution evidence showed the chain of events that led to Kian being particularly put in this location and in that position by the accused, allowing them to shoot Kian with impunity and ensuring the execution of the crime,” the court said.

“Considering all these circumstances, treachery was present,” it added. 

The Supreme Court has affirmed the conviction of three police officers involved in the killing of 17-year-old Kian delos Santos during a drug bust operation in Caloocan City in 2017.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1265703

The Supreme Court (SC) En Banc has ordered the dismissal and disbarment of Judge Oscar Tomarong, Presiding Judge of Branch 28, Regional Trial Court (RTC), Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte, for the murder of a fellow judge.

The SC issued the ruling following disciplinary proceedings initiated by the Judicial Integrity Board (JIB) after Tomarong’s conviction for planning the 2019 killing of Judge Reymar Lacaya, then Presiding Judge of Branch 11, RTC, Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte.

In a 16-page decision made public on Tuesday, the SC dismissed Tomarong from office, ordered the forfeiture of his retirement benefits, disbarred him from practicing law, and disqualified him from reemployment in the government.

In 2019, the SC reassigned the two judges to each other’s court branches. Shortly after Lacaya finished court hearings in Branch 28 one afternoon, he was ginned down behind the court building.

During the criminal trial, Juliber Cabating testified that Tomarong instructed him to look for hired killers to murder Lacaya. Cabating said Tomarong paid the killers PHP250,000 through him.

Another witness confirmed being with the hired killers in the morning before the murder, and an eyewitness also saw and identified the killers fleeing from the court building shortly after the shooting.

The SC described Tomarong’s actions as among “the gravest violations of judicial duty.”

“The crime involved is a patent breach of the very essence of what it means to be a judge who carries the obligation and privilege of serving the people. At a time when the rise in the attacks against judges has even necessitated the adoption of measures to protect judges, a judge committing the murder of a fellow judge must be punished swiftly and severely,” the SC said.

Although Judge Tomarong’s criminal conviction is still on appeal, the SC ruled that a final conviction is not required to impose administrative penalties.

The SC underscored that no one is above the law, including members of the Judiciary. It emphasized that public trust in the justice system is undermined when judges violate the very laws they are sworn to uphold.

“[N]o one, not even members of the Bench, is above the law. Judges are the embodiment of law and justice… The Judiciary’s task of maintaining the people’s trust is undermined whenever judges neglect their duties, and worse, violate the laws that they are supposed to uphold. This case is the Court’s proof of its commitment to the public that no judge who so callously breaches the law and perpetrates an injustice will go unpunished,” it said.

The SC reminded all courts of their obligation to promptly report any convictions of judges and court personnel to the JIB, now known as the Judicial Integrity Office, in line with the Rules of Court. 

The Supreme Court En Banc has ordered the dismissal and disbarment of Judge Oscar Tomarong, Presiding Judge of Branch 28, Regional Trial Court, Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte, for the murder of a fellow judge.

https://mb.com.ph/2025/12/24/off-duty-cop-faces-ax-over-christmas-party-meltdown

An off-duty cop is facing multiple criminal charges after firing his gun and beating up an individual during a Christmas party in Estancia town, northern Iloilo province. 

The Police Regional Office-6 announced that the police officer, whose name was withheld, is facing charges of illegally discharging his firearm and slight physical injuries. 

The suspect with the rank of senior master sergeant fired his weapon after he helped a friend maul the victim during a Dec. 22 Christmas party. 

“There is absolutely no place in the police service for abusive behavior, especially when committed by those entrusted with authority,” said PRO-6 chief Police Brig. Gen. Josefino Ligan in a statement. 

“Any personnel found to have violated the law and police rules will face the full force of criminal and administrative sanctions,” added Ligan. 

The suspect is also facing charges for resistance and disobedience to an agent of a person in authority.

An off-duty cop is facing multiple criminal charges after firing his gun and beating up an individual during a Christmas party in Estancia town, northern Iloilo province. 

Coronavirus Lockdown: Infectious Disease Hub, Tourism Crisis, and More!

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

During the pandemic the government bemoaned the lack of virology centers and vowed to open some. One has just opened in Negros Occidental. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1265258

The Negros Occidental provincial government is enhancing its delivery of healthcare services with the opening of the Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (CEMREID) at the Teresita L. Jalandoni Provincial Hospital (TLJPH) in Silay City.

With support from the Department of Health and the World Bank, the PHP100-million medical facility is the province's response to the infrastructural gaps exposed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

After the blessing and inauguration led by Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson on Dec. 13, the CEMREID will soon become operational, boosting the province’s health capability.

"This key development strengthens our province’s capability to respond to health threats and safeguard the well-being of our people,” Lacson said in a statement on Monday.

“The inauguration of CEMREID is not only an advancement for the hospital, but an achievement for the entire province," he added.

The infectious disease hub is equipped with an emergency room, operating room, delivery room, and intensive care unit — all designed to ensure efficient and safe patient management.

The ground floor has an infectious disease emergency room, with two ambulance drop-off points. It utilizes the province’s first variable refrigerant flow negative pressure system to enhance infection control.

"The new center underscores the provincial government’s commitment to providing responsive, modern, and life-saving healthcare services to every Negrense," Lacson said.

To partly fund the project, Negros Occidental utilized an allocation from the one-time “Bayanihan” financial aid given by the national government as a grant to the local government units, to be used exclusively for projects, programs, and activities concerning the Covid-19 pandemic.

The governor said his administration will continue to invest in government-run hospitals, the healthcare workforce, and systems to ensure that no Negrense is left behind when it comes to health and safety.

Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II said the CEMREID will initially accommodate the operations of the TLJPH, which is set to undergo renovation.

"With the CEMREID operational very soon, we can transfer our operations of the TLJPH temporarily here. We need to repair and upgrade the old TLJPH building," he said.

Hopefully the facility is maintained and not allowed to fall to pieces due to the widespread corruption in the Philippine government. 

Tourism is inching back towards pre-pandemic levels says the DOT. Tourism in the the Philippines is declining say other sources. 

https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/philippines-tourism-crisis-declining-numbers-key-issues-and-solutions-all-you-need-to-know-now/

The Philippines, once a beacon of tropical paradise with its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and rich heritage, is now experiencing a concerning decline in its tourism numbers. Despite its appeal as a popular Southeast Asian destination, the country has seen a dip in international tourist arrivals in recent years, resulting in a significant blow to the local economy, jobs, and small businesses. As it faces intense competition from other countries, the Philippine government, led by the Department of Tourism (DOT), is stepping up efforts to rejuvenate the tourism industry, but the challenge is not without hurdles.

Reason for decline of Tourism in Philippines:

While the Philippines continues to be known for its idyllic tourist destinations such as Boracay, Palawan, and Cebu, the tourism industry has been struggling in recent years. Several key factors have contributed to this decline, all of which have significant implications for the country’s economy and its people.

1. Pandemic Aftermath

The COVID-19 pandemic is one of the most significant contributors to the decline in tourism. With borders closed, international flights grounded, and strict quarantine protocols, the tourism sector came to a near halt in 2020 and 2021. As the world slowly recovers from the pandemic, many countries in Southeast Asia have already capitalized on their reopening strategies, while the Philippines has been slower to regain its position as a tourism hotspot. While the situation has improved, the tourism sector has yet to recover to pre-pandemic levels, and many tourists still perceive the Philippines as a risky destination due to lingering health concerns.

2. Fierce Regional Competition

Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and other Southeast Asian destinations have aggressively marketed themselves as viable alternatives to the Philippines. These countries have improved infrastructure, offered competitive pricing, and launched large-scale promotional campaigns. Thailand, in particular, has benefitted from its reputation as a versatile destination, catering to both budget travelers and luxury seekers. Additionally, Vietnam and Indonesia, with their rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, have positioned themselves as strong contenders in the international tourism market, attracting travelers who would otherwise have chosen the Philippines.

3. Infrastructure Challenges

Despite its natural beauty, the Philippines faces significant infrastructure challenges that hinder the tourism experience. Poor air connectivity, limited domestic flight options, traffic congestion, and underdeveloped transportation networks often lead to long and exhausting travel times for tourists. In some popular tourist spots like Boracay, Palawan, and Bohol, limited transport infrastructure can create bottlenecks, leading to delays and inconvenience for travelers. These issues, coupled with overcrowded airports, can leave a negative impression on visitors and make the country less appealing compared to destinations with better infrastructure.

4. Environmental Degradation and Over-Tourism

While the Philippines is known for its breathtaking beaches, mountains, and islands, some of these natural wonders are now at risk due to over-tourism and environmental degradation. The fragile ecosystems in areas like Boracay and Palawan are being damaged by unregulated tourism, with concerns over coral reef destruction, waste management, and pollution. Boracay, for example, was temporarily closed in 2018 to undergo environmental rehabilitation, underscoring the severity of the issue. Despite efforts to promote sustainable tourism, the ongoing risk of environmental harm remains a significant challenge, particularly as the country struggles to balance development with conservation.

5. Safety and Security Concerns

In certain regions, safety and security concerns have deterred tourists from visiting the Philippines. Negative media reports, combined with occasional security issues in some parts of the country, have led to a perception that the Philippines is not entirely safe for international travelers. While the vast majority of tourist destinations are safe, isolated incidents of crime or conflict in certain provinces can tarnish the country’s reputation. This is particularly concerning as travelers today increasingly prioritize safety when making travel decisions.

The Impact on the Tourism Industry and the Economy

Tourism is a crucial pillar of the Philippine economy. Before the pandemic, the industry contributed significantly to the nation’s GDP, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs in sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and retail. The decline in international arrivals has had a ripple effect, leading to job losses and a reduction in income for many local businesses. For communities that depend on tourism, this downturn has been particularly devastating, especially in remote areas where alternative sources of income are limited.

The reduced influx of foreign tourists also means a decline in tourism-related revenue, such as hotel bookings, guided tours, restaurant spending, and souvenir purchases. The Philippines, which relies heavily on foreign exchange earnings, is seeing a decrease in this vital revenue stream, which is impacting the country’s financial stability.

Government’s Efforts to Revive Tourism in the Philippines

In response to the decline, the Philippine government, particularly the Department of Tourism (DOT), has been working tirelessly to revitalize the industry. The government has implemented several initiatives to re-establish the Philippines as a top-tier destination for both local and international travelers.

1. Rebranding Campaigns

The DOT has launched a renewed marketing campaign under the banner of “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” which aims to promote the country’s diverse attractions, from its stunning beaches to its vibrant culture and unique festivals. The campaign also focuses on promoting the Philippines as a safe destination for travelers, with strict health protocols in place to protect visitors.

2. Infrastructure Investments

The government has allocated significant funding for infrastructure development, including the expansion of airports, improved road networks, and upgrades to transportation services. In the coming years, airports like Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Cebu’s Mactan-Cebu International Airport are set for expansions that will improve connectivity and ease travel for tourists. Additionally, the government is investing in sustainable infrastructure to ensure that growth does not come at the cost of the environment.

3. Sustainable Tourism Initiatives

Recognizing the importance of preserving its natural beauty, the Philippines is also focusing on promoting sustainable tourism. This includes encouraging eco-tourism practices and working with local communities to ensure that tourism development is both responsible and beneficial for the environment. Efforts to reduce waste, promote responsible travel, and safeguard natural habitats are being prioritized.

4. Security Measures

To address safety concerns, the Philippine government is working closely with local authorities to ensure that tourist destinations are secure and that tourists feel safe during their travels. Increased police presence in key tourist areas and partnerships with international safety organizations are helping to reassure travelers about the country’s commitment to their well-being.

FUTURE OF TOURISM: A Long Road Ahead

The Philippines’ tourism sector is facing significant challenges, but with the government’s efforts to address infrastructure issues, promote sustainable tourism, and ensure safety, the country has the potential to recover. However, the competition is fierce, and the Philippines must continually adapt to meet the changing needs of global travelers. By embracing sustainable practices, improving accessibility, and enhancing the overall tourist experience, the Philippines can once again emerge as a leading travel destination in Southeast Asia.

Is nyone really concerned about lingering health concerns due to the pandemic? What are the sources for this claim? Fierce competition from neighboring countries seems like the real factor. Let's not forget the pandemic drained people's bank accounts and there is a global inflation crisis. 

Manila is finally going to release the long-delayed health allowance for COVID-19 workers. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/12/19/manila-city-to-release-health-emergency-allowance-for-covid-19-contact-tracers

The Manila city government will begin the release of the long-delayed Health Emergency Allowance (HEA) to COVID-19 contact tracers on Saturday, Dec. 20. 

Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno" Domagoso announced the move and ordered immediate distribution of the allowance upon his return to office. 

A total of 844 contact traces are set to benefit from the release. 

The HEA is funded by the national government but had remained pending for several years before action was taken by the city government. 

To ensure the release of the funds, Mayor Moreno signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of Health (DOH), allowing the city to move forward with the distribution. 

Starting Dec. 20, the City Treasurer’s Office will remain open to accommodate beneficiaries and ensure the smooth and orderly distribution of HEA checks. 

Contact tracers are advised to bring a valid ID when claiming their allowance and may check for the list here: https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1205553961758390&id=100069113923869&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=SQapXKAofMw10Xyu

It will be believed when it is actually accomplished. 

Consumer confidence has hit a pandemic-era low. 

https://business.inquirer.net/565252/ph-consumer-confidence-hits-pandemic-era-low

Consumer confidence fell to a pandemic-era low in the fourth quarter as a widening graft scandal exposed governance weaknesses and stalled public works, while businesses grew less optimistic about conditions in the months ahead, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported.

A quarterly central bank survey of about 5,000 households nationwide showed that the consumer confidence index (CI) worsened to -22.2 percent in the fourth quarter, from -9.8 percent in the preceding three months. A negative reading indicates that pessimists outnumber optimists.

The latest result was the weakest since the fourth quarter of 2021, when the index plunged to -24 percent during the height of the pandemic. Among the factors that dragged down household sentiment, the central bank said, was an ongoing corruption scandal that has implicated high-ranking government officials.

President Marcos’ economic team has already signaled that official macroeconomic targets may need to be revised to account for the fallout from an expanding antigraft drive, which dragged economic growth to a four-year low of 4 percent in the third quarter.

The probe has widened to include lawmakers, Cabinet members, government engineers and private contractors, undermining confidence and squeezing public spending at a time when the economy is increasingly reliant on domestic demand to cushion mounting global risks from trade uncertainty.

“Consumers were also concerned about the effective delivery of government services amid public discontent over governance-related issues,” the central bank said.

Interestingly, households cited higher inflation as a major concern, even though consumer price gains have remained below the central bank’s 2 to 4 percent target range for a ninth straight month in November.

Those expecting higher inflation pointed to worries over food and grocery prices, the effectiveness of government programs in curbing price pressures, inclement weather and other natural calamities and tighter supplies of basic commodities.

Looking ahead, the central bank said consumer sentiment was less upbeat in the next quarter, with the confidence index easing to 3.6 percent from 6.9 percent in the previous survey round as households grew more pessimistic about the broader economy and less bullish on family income.

Sentiment over the next 12 months also weakened, with the index slipping to 11.8 percent from 14.1 percent, as households turned more pessimistic about the country’s economic outlook, remained upbeat about their financial situation and grew more optimistic about income prospects.

Meanwhile, a separate BSP survey of 1,521 companies showed the CI for businesses improved to 29.7 percent in the fourth quarter, from 23.2 percent in the third, a more upbeat sentiment due to strong holiday season spending, business process enhancements, expansion plans and benign inflation.

But for the next quarter, the confidence index stayed positive but dropped to 23.7 percent from 49.5 percent before. Companies surveyed pointed to post-holiday decline in demand for products and services and business activities, negative impact of corruption allegations on investor confidence, peso depreciation and higher inflation.

The overall business outlook for the next 12 months was also less optimistic. The index slipped to 40.4 percent from 48.1 percent previously, with firms worrying about governance-related concerns about public works spending, weaker demand for products and services, higher inflation, peso depreciation and possible economic slowdown. 

It's more proof affirming corruption is just as devastating as locking down the economy if not more so.