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Technicalities, Constitutionalities

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June 16, 2025

THERE’S TOO MUCH noise in the timing and conduct of Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial by the Senate, which to people is long overdue but which Senate President Chiz Escudero would rather subject it to a vote, if the body should proceed this month or leave the matter to the upcoming 20th Congress. (This new stance is being seen as Escudero playing safe so as not to get the ire of Sara, if acquitted, and guns for the 2028 presidential race).

Frustrations have been raised by people and by members of the House of Representatives, which diligently worked on impeaching her but the final say now rests in the Upper Chamber, which continued to drag its feet by simply disregarding the Constitutional order of “holding the trial forthwith, (in layman’s term meaning immediately).”

As House Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo Rep. Lorenz Defensor said: the Senate should not abandon its constitutional mandate and must proceed with the impeachment trial of VP Duterte.Pause
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The impeachment is a critical mechanism for holding high-ranking officials accountable for serious offenses and its abandonment by the Senate of its duty to exact accountability would set a bad example to the young and future leaders of our country, Defensor said.

DRIBBLING TACTICS

All eyes are now focused on Chiz and the other senators if they would kill the impeachment plot or not, as incoming Liberal partylist Rep. Leila de Lima (who as a senator was jailed by Sara’s father, former President Duterte).

De Lima deplored the dribbling and dilatory tactics in the Senate to derail the momentum of the impeachment case against Sara saying the “public will not be fooled.”

She said there’s no reason for Escudero to study the impeachment case since the Senate’s mandate is clear: Convene as an impeachment court with no excuses.

“Let us not kid each other. This is no longer about legal preparedness but about political will,” said De Lima, one of the impeachment prosecutors. Delaying tactics designed to wear out the public and slow down the momentum would spare the powerful, she stressed.

But she warned that the public will see through it. People are closely watching what the senators are doing, she said, adding “the Filipino people have seen the show before, you can’t fool them.”

MORE IMPORTANT MATTERS

The truth is at stake in this impeachment trial as she dared the senators to be the stewards of the Constitution, and not be gatekeepers of convenience.”

“When powerful figures are accused of grave abuse, silence is complicity. Delay is betrayal” as she posed “Let the trial begin.”

Escudero refused to convene the impeachment court in February after the House of Representatives transmitted the Articles of Impeachment, and then moved the scheduled reading of the charges from June 2 to June 11, citing priority legislation as an excuse.

Reports claim that he could be shelving the case to court the support of the Duterte bloc for his continued leadership of the chamber. But Escudero denied this saying he could not see any connection between the two issues.

WHATEVER IS PENDING

Similarly Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro said the change in Senate composition should not stop the trial because of incoming Senators on June 30.

Citing the Supreme Court’s rule that Congress is a continuing body “what terminates is the session, but the Congress itself does not end after every session,” she said likening it to a Regional Trial Court with the next judge deciding on whatever is pending before the sala.

This is the same with the impeachment court. If the 19th Congress does not finish it, the 20th Congress could continue the hearing, she said.

A coalition of multisectoral groups, including leaders of the clergy, on Tuesday protested the delay in the trial of VP Duterte June 11 from June 2.

At a press conference, 204 impeachment complainants, religious leaders, and students, artists, members of the Makabayan coalition and other civil society groups issued a joint statement expressing “great alarm” and shared their “outrage over insinuations that the trial will not proceed because of jurisdictional issues.”

“The time for accountability over large-scale corruption is now. Further delays and the termination of the proceedings will be nothing but a win for impunity,” they noted.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros said the delays in the reading of the articles of impeachment are no longer procedural but are obstructions disguised as protocol. She insisted that it’s appropriate for the Senate to immediately start the proceedings four months after the House the impeachment article.

Asked if he was afraid of Duterte, Escudero simply shrugged off talks on his supposed fear which caused delays in the impeachment trial.

“Pain (bait) naman ang tanong na yun. Ginagawa namin kung ano ang trabaho namin. Yung mga ganyang uri ng komentaryo at pain, uulitin ko—dun sa mga ayaw kay VP Sara at pabor sa impeachment, doon sa mga gusto kay VP Sara at tutol sa impeachment—walang bale sa akin yun.”

OATHTAKING

Provincial Information Office

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June 16, 2025

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THE OATH-TAKING ceremony of Congressman-Elect Gov. Edwin Marino Ongchuan, who secured a sweeping victory, was led by Mayor Maria Ana Abalon at San Roque town in Northern Samar. Ongchuan, former governor of the province garnered around 90% of the total votes cast. He, along with other elected officials, assumes post on June 30. Special guests at Ongchuan’s oathtaking were Northern Samar First Lady Bles Ongchuan, Laoang SB Member Emil Ongchuan, Vice Governor Clarence Dato, and 2nd District SP Member Don Abalon. Also present were his wife Bles and family, partymates, board members, Provincial Government officials and employees, and supporters gathered at the SP Session Hall to personally witness the proclamation.

NCAP: An Organized Chaos

Raymund Narag

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June 16, 2025

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TRAFFIC IN THE Philippines has always been a kind of organized chaos — except that most of the time, the “organized” part is aspirational. While there are traffic rules on paper, on the ground it’s every driver for himself.

The unspoken rule? Break the rules before others break them at your expense. In practice, you swerve before getting swerved, beat the red light before you get stuck, and counterflow because—well—everyone else is doing it.

The irony is, it’s only when accidents happen that drivers suddenly remember the law. They cling to it, not because they respect it, but because they can weaponize it. They point to the rules to pin the blame, minimize their own guilt, and come out the lesser evil in a greater mess.

And the mess is real—our roads are strewn not just with potholes, but with mangled steel and spilled blood. Death is a daily commuter.

‘The NCAP must stay … once people see the peace in the order, the safety in the structure, the decency in the discipline—they will adapt. And they will pass it on.’

THE CULTURE CALLED TRAFFIC

But traffic, believe it or not, is also culture. It is a social system passed down from one driver to the next. You don’t learn how to drive from the Land Transportation Office. You learn it from your kuya who taught you how to do nguso-nguso. You learn it from the tricycle driver who showed you how to singit-singit between buses, SUVs, and life itself. And because singit works—because you get home faster, avoid the gridlock, and feel clever doing it—the behavior is reinforced.

The shortcut becomes the norm, and the law becomes the joke.

Enter the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP).

Suddenly, the cultural logic is flipped on its head. The camera sees what your kumpare didn’t. The system penalizes what the traffic enforcer used to let slide. And the drivers protest. “Ok lang ang singit-singit para maka-uwi agad!” they cry. But the NCAP won’t let them. It does not flinch, it does not look away, it does not accept palusot.

CHALLENGING THE NARRATIVE

What the NCAP challenges is not just bad driving—it challenges the very narrative. It says no to the idea that personal convenience should always trump collective order. It says no to the myth that we get ahead by getting around the rules.

Of course, many people don’t like it. Because in the short run, the law inconveniences them. Their commute is longer. Their singit is punished. Their individual gain is delayed.

But what they don’t see —yet— is the long game. That if everyone obeyed the rules, we’d all get home earlier. No gridlocks, no collisions, no arguments in the middle of the road.

The NCAP imagines a world where lahat ay sumunod, not out of fear, but out of shared understanding that the common good outweighs the selfish shortcut.

BEHAVIOR IS LEARNED

And so we must reeducate. Rewire the thinking. Reboot the system. Teach that following traffic rules is not a loss but a gain, not a punishment but a promise. That kung isusuko natin ang pansariling ginhawa, mas malaki ang balik na biyaya sa lahat. That discipline, when shared, is freedom.

Of course, the kamote driver will object. And social media amplifies their rants. The NCAP is anti-poor, they say. It’s poorly implemented. There are no signs, the roads are broken, the potholes are deeper than policy.

These are valid points — and yes, government must fix them. But using them as an excuse to disregard the law? That’s textbook kamote. That’s disregard for rules, for safety, for decency.

CHANGE TO CULTURE

Social Learning Theory in Criminology tells us this: behavior is learned. So are the scripts we use to justify it. If we let the illegal justifications dominate—if we let the singit logic win—then expect more people to swerve away from the law. But if we institutionalize the legal scripts, if we normalize the discipline, then we raise a new generation who sees following the law not as an inconvenience, but as identity.

The NCAP must stay. It must stand its ground. Because change, real change, is always resisted at first. But once people see the peace in the order, the safety in the structure, the decency in the discipline—they will adapt. And they will pass it on.

In time, the NCAP will not just be policy. It will be practice. It will be culture.

And who knows? One day, we might even learn how to drive like a nation.

(Editor’s Note: Dr. Raymund E. Narag is an associate professor at the Criminology and Criminal Justice Department at the Southern Illinois University. He had his undergraduate courses at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City.)

Betrayals Of Public Trust

Boni Macaranas

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June 16, 2025

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Last February 5, 2025, 215 Congressmen of the House of Representatives filed/sent to the Senate an Impeachment Complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte for culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, mysterious spending of P125.5 million of the people’s tax money — budgeted confidential funds under her OVP and her Office as concurrent secretary of the DepED, bribery, and other high crimes.

Under Article 11 of the Philippine Constitution, Section 3, (4), the Senate is mandated “forthwith” (that is, last February 5) “to proceed” setting itself up as an Impeachment Court, with themselves as Senator-Judges, to put on trial VP Sara Duterte, for her “high crimes.” BUT, only by June 10 (more than 4 months) that the senators, under the leadership of Senate President Chiz Escudero, formed themselves as an Impeachment Court.

However, with the resolution by senators Bato de la Rosa and Francis Tolentino to stop the trial, an amendment to the resolution was made by senator-judge Alan Cayetano remanding the Impeachment Complaint to the House of Representatives. This move, deemed unconstitutional by legal luminaries, was practically to delay the proceedings, and probably or actually to stop the trial itself.

‘As citizens they are actually paying the salaries of all government officials, precisely “to build a just and humane society” – that is, to hold accountable erring public officials, to give justice to everyone, and work in pursuit of good governance.’

IT’S ACCOUNTABILITY!

Netizens and other justice influencers and activist organizations have been clamoring with protest actions in the streets to “litisin si Sara Duterte ngayon na!” for the past weeks. These protesters’ call for the Senate to act on the Articles of Impeachment soonest is quite understandable, given their expectation that “public office is a position of public trust.”

As citizens they are actually paying the salaries of all government officials, precisely “to build a just and humane society” – that is, to hold accountable erring public officials, to give justice to everyone, and work in pursuit of good governance.

And the senators’ forming themselves into an Impeachment Court is clearly their constitutional judicial function, a duty to carry out posthaste. The people are thinking, quite seriously and dutifully, “Aren’t these actions by the Senators a betrayal of public trust?”

Unfortunately for the country, especially for the more than 60 million poor and marginalized Filipinos, the past administration of the former president, now in the International Criminal Court detention cell waiting for his trial for “crimes against humanity” (for causing the extra-judicial killings (EJKs) and red-tagged killings of more than 30,000 Filipinos, children included), have not solved the drug problem, among many other problems, like that of the economy, the poor quality of the education and health systems of the country, and China’s encroachment into our sovereign territories, particularly in the WPS.

OFFICIAL MANDATE

Sadly too, the current administration of the “Uniteam” is also neglecting its official mandate to serve the people. Instead, now they’re apparently focused on remaining in power at the top of the government bureaucracy.

The people are still waiting when they can buy the P20/kg of rice and affordable vegetables, meat, fruits, and other basic necessities of life.

QUESTIONS

When will the NTF-ELCAC stop its red tagging of activists, and stop the military’s illegal arrests, enforced disappearances, and killings?

When will the more than 750 political prisoners still languishing in jail enjoy justice?

When will the current leadership finally put a stop to the aggressive attacks of China’s coast guards in the WPS against the fishermen and maritime scientists who are just doing their jobs for the country?

When will the current leadership really do its job of governance with integrity and real effectiveness, and prove convincingly that it is not betraying the people’s trust?

Couch Life Chronicles: A Filipino Senior’s Guide to Peace, Pajamas, and Pandesal

Gwenn Canlas

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June 16, 2025

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Couch Life Chronicles: A Filipino Senior’s Guide to Peace, Pajamas, and Pandesal

Once upon a time, I was the lakwatsa queen. Mall hopping, night markets, Sunday family KTV followed by lunch buffets—I was there, full on make up, bag in hand, ready to conquer the outside world. Now? If you invite me out at 6PM, I’ll say, “Ay, I already took a shower. That’s it for the day.”

It’s not that I’ve become antisocial or lazy. I’ve just evolved. I’ve discovered something magical in my golden years: the art of doing nothing, and I’m thriving.

Doing nothing is not useless. It’s healing. While others are out chasing plans and battling traffic on EDSA, I’m sitting in my favorite chair, sipping coffee, feet elevated, and blood pressure stable. That’s not laziness—that’s preventive healthcare.

MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS

I’ve also noticed that stress levels drop dramatically when you’re not constantly rushing to book a ride because the last two Grab drivers decided to cancel or waiting in line at Mercury Drug. At home, everything is calm. My plants are growing, my heartbeat is regular, and I haven’t argued with a taxi driver in years. Coincidence? I think not.

And of course, I’ve formed deep, meaningful relationships—with my delivery people. They’re my new best friends. They bring me fruits, meds, lechon manok, and the occasional ube cheese pandesal. I see them more than I see my doctor. They’re punctual, polite, and never ask awkward questions like “Kailan ka lalabas ulit?”

Thanks to them (and technology), I don’t have to risk my joints or my immune system just to run errands. Why go to the pharmacy when I can have my supplements and maintenance meds delivered with a free smile and sometimes a free sachet of Milo?

HYGIENE STATE

Another thing—going out means germs. Crowds, sneezing strangers, coughing kids. No thank you!

At home, I control the hygiene situation. I know exactly who sneezed on the remote (spoiler: it was me). And don’t get me started on comfort—real health starts with stretchy pants. I’ve let go of belts and heels, and in return, my knees and back have forgiven me.

I walk around the house for exercise. I do gentle stretching in the morning (sometimes while waiting for rice to cook). And for cardio? I panic walk when I can’t find my phone. That counts, right?

MENTAL HEALTH

My mental health? Glowing. I have zero social anxiety because there’s no pressure to make small talk or pretend I like someone’s kare-kare. I talk to my dog and my cats, sing along to teleserye theme songs, and solve crossword puzzles in record time (unless I nap mid-way).

So no, I’m not missing out. I’ve just figured it out – I’m just choosing me, my peace, my health, my snacks, my slippers, my comfort, and a little space to do absolutely nothing. That’s not giving up—that’s winning.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I think Kuya Jollibee is at the gate.

‘Digital GINHAWA’ Transactions

Tracy Cabrera

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June 16, 2025

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FULLY COMMITTED TO deliver the best service to its members and pensioners, the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has announced that it has now reached more than 99 percent of its transactions, including the ‘Digital GINHAWA’ program, in the first half of 2025 through online processing.

According to GSIS president and general manager Jose Arnulfo ‘Wick’ Veloso, from January to June, almost all GSIS services, including loan applications and member information inquiries, were accessed through the GSIS Touch mobile app and GWAPS (GSIS Wireless Automated Processing System) kiosks.

“This digital transformation translates to greater convenience: members can transact anytime, anywhere, without waiting in line at GSIS offices,” Veloso proudly disclosed.

“Digital GINHAWA means comfort, accessibility, and peace of mind for our members. Now, applying for loans, checking records and accessing benefits can all be done with just a few taps on your phone,” he added.

Based on GSIS data, every member information inquiry and nearly all loan computations and applications were processed digitally from January to June. This resulted with online loan applications rising from 98.5 percent in the first quarter to 99.1 percent in the second quarter, with loan computation requests consistently above 99.5 percent threshold.

GM Veloso likewise reported that strong member adoption of digital channels for the mandatory active renewal of pensioners’ status called APIR (Annual Pensioners’ Information Revalidation).

“In the first quarter of 2025, 95 percent of all APIR transactions were processed digitally through the GSIS Touch app and GWAPS kiosks. This figure climbed even higher to 97 percent in the second quarter, underscoring members’ growing preference for ‘Digital GINHAWA’ and the convenience of handling important requirements online,” he stressed.

With over two million registered users, the GSIS Touch app provides 24/7 access to loan applications, benefit monitoring, pensioners’ active status renewal and compliance (APIR) and more—allowing members, including those in remote or overseas locations, to manage their accounts anytime.

In ending, Veloso urged members and pensioners who have not yet downloaded the GSIS Touch app to do so now and to keep their contact details updated for uninterrupted access.

“We are committed to expand our digital services so that every member can experience digital GINHAWA, wherever they are. GSIS members and pensioners can stay informed through the official website- www.gsis.gov.ph, or by following GSIS on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. For assistance, they may call the GSIS Contact Center at 8847-4747,” he advised to conclude.

Whatever Happened To The PrimeWater Probe?

Fernan Angeles

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June 16, 2025

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Whatever Happened To The PrimeWater Probe?

IT HAS BEEN over a month since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) to investigate complaints against the Villar-owned PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation (PrimeWater).

To date, LWUA has yet to make an update, for which consumers are toying on two possibilities — either the President isn’t serious in his directive, or LWUA isn’t taking Marcos seriously.

If my memory serves me right, LWUA administrator Jose Salonga himself made the announcement about an “ongoing investigation.”

Government data showed that more than 100 water districts in the country are in joint venture partnership agreements (JVA), 74 of which are with PrimeWater.

WHY PROBE?

But even before LWUA gets to conclude on its investigation, Salonga noted that the agency does not wield the power to rescind the JVAs.

If that’s the case, what’s the use of such an investigation?

According to the LWUA chief, the probe would somehow find ways as to how water districts can terminate their agreements with PrimeWater.

Except for the disputed islands at the West Philippine Sea, PrimeWater is basically all over the country — Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

NOT THE FIRST

Interestingly, PrimeWater isn’t the first Villar business venture to have been complained about.

Families who fell into a trap aptly referred to as “pre-selling scheme” of the Villar real estate companies, are starting to lose hope on their fervent wish to recover their hard-earned money after numerous housing projects were “shelved.”

Even owners of the land where Villar’s real estate companies “developed” residential subdivisions regretted transacting with them. Why? Most of them were forced to sell their land at a pittance. Worse, they still have yet to collect.

DELINQUENT TAXES

Three other companies owned by the family of top Filipino billionaire Manuel Villar Jr. have also been delinquent in paying taxes to the Las Piñas City government.

As per documents obtained by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), Brittany Corporation, Villar Sipag Center, and Villar Sipag at Tiyaga Foundation have not paid P213.55 million in real property taxes for a number of assets in the city, including Mella Hotel, three Evia buildings, Portofino Commercial, and the Villar Sipag Center.

No wonder, Villars have become the richest family in the Philippines.

Crossover Is Allowed

Fernan Angeles

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June 16, 2025

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THE MAN BEHIND the salient Constitutional provisions embarking on impeachment of public officials has spoken.

According to former Supreme Court Justice Adolf Azcuna, there’s no compelling reason for an impeachment case to cease just because of the supposed changes in the members of the Senate, sitting as an impeachment court.

Azcuna, who formed part of the legal luminaries who crafted the 1987 Constitution, categorically said that the 20th Congress may continue the impeachment trial but only after the Senate gets to read the Articles of Impeachment that would effectively give the members of the 20th Congress the jurisdiction over the case.

“All he needs is to get the Articles read to the Senate and served on the Respondent. That will trigger the Senate’s jurisdiction over the case. The Senate in the 20th Congress can continue the process of proceeding with the trial,” Azcuna said in a Facebook post.

SUPREME OVER SENATE

The Senate, sitting as impeachment court, recently ruled to favor a motion filed by Senator-Judge Alan Peter Cayetano via 18 affirmative votes against five, effectively remanding the Articles of Impeachment back to where it emanated — at the House of Representatives.

For the five senators who voted against Cayetano’s motion, the act in itself seemed more of like an outright dismissal for which Azcuna insisted that there’s still a way to turn the tide.

The former magistrate said that only the Supreme Court has the power to reverse the “dismissal.”

“[The dismissal] can be reversed by the Supreme Court or by the Senate of the 20th Congress on a proper motion for reconsideration,” Azcuna noted.

FORTHWITH PROCEED

Under Article XI Section 3(4) of the 1987 Constitution, a verified complaint or resolution of impeachment filed by at least one-third of all the Members of the House, “shall constitute the Articles of Impeachment and trial by the Senate shall forthwith proceed.”

Azcuna however did not categorically say whether or not the Senate erred when it delayed the facilitation of the impeachment case.

The University of the Philippines College of Law likewise asked the senate to comply with its constitutional duty to “forthwith proceed” with VP Sara’s impeachment trial.

Forthwith, according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, means “without any delay.”

SENATE PRESIDENCY

According to UP Diliman political science Professor Maria Ela Atienza, the delay may have something to do with senate leadership.

“Escudero may be hedging and calculating, thinking also of saving his position as Senate President […] he does not want to offend the Dutertes and pro-Duterte senators, possibly to save his hold of the presidency of the Senate,” Atienza was quoted in a news report published in the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

“Admittedly, it gives a bad impression of having delayed the impeachment trial,” This shows that he cannot lead the Senate in doing its constitutional role to convene as an impeachment court. He lacks integrity and seems not to be accountable to the public,” she added.

Sen. Imee Marcos and incoming Vicente Sotto III are keen on the idea of taking the lead over the upper legislative chamber.

DEFENSIVE STANCE

Escudero in his capacity as presiding judge of the impeachment court, clarified that the move is not in any way synonymous to dismissal even as he claimed that Duterte has already been summoned to file a rejoinder within 10 days.

The impeachment court’s presiding judge said that returning the articles of impeachment “back to the sender” will allow the House of Representatives to make remedial legislative measures that would legitimize the “crossover” of the impeachment trial from the 19th to the 20th Congress.

He likewise warded off claims that neither politics nor the Senate presidency has something to do with the decision of the 18 Senator-Judges.

AMENDED MOTION

Cayetano’s motion (which is an amended version of Senior-Judge Ronald Dela Rosa’s proposal) embarks on two salient conditions for the House of Representatives to comply with.

Citing provisions under the 1987 Constitution, the amended motion explicitly required the House of Representatives to certify the impeachment complaint for the non violation of the 1987 Constitution.

He particularly hinted at Article XI, Section 3, paragraph 5 which provides that “No impeachment proceedings shall be initiated against the same official more than once within one year; include the circumstances on the filing of the first three impeachment complaints.”

Cayetano likewise cited the need for the House of Representatives of the 20th Congress to communicate with the Senate expressing intent to pursue the impeachment complaint against the Vice President.

The Push For Decarbonization

Erlie Lopez

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June 16, 2025

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THE WORLD IS in big trouble. And I mean not from wranglings between citizenry and government, and between nations. Where hot debates can kill hopes just as bombs can. And promises do not bring emergency necessities like food, medicine, and jobs, pronto, to ease daily struggles.

Though still some 25 years from now, our planet Earth, may have a system collapse. It can and will just happen, without having to single out which superpower can blow away one planet, and humanity, to smithereens. We all can bring it about.

Maybe I am dramatizing, but the climate change clock is ticking and catastrophic impacts are fast coming to view – ocean waters rising, tsunamis and massive floodings, drying of agricultural fields, devastation of forests and mountains with their biodiversity, famines and hunger, loss of lives. What can be worse?

‘We have 25 years more before the roofs come down on our common home but each day brings us close to it. Unless we choose to overcome. Reducing our carbon footprints is one big way.’

ZERO EMISSIONS

Since 2015, the United Nations has been accelerating discussions and cooperative actions among governments and other key sectors worldwide to address the climate threat determined in the early 70s.

The Philippines has committed to help achieve the targeted net zero emissions of greenhouse gases (the main cause) by 2050 and to keep the rise in earth temperature within the 1.5 degree centigrade limit set by climate scientists.

Among several mitigation measures, key strategy identified was reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These gases include mainly carbon dioxide and also methane and others which are emitted from human activities mainly the burning of fossil fuels and also during agricultural, industrial, commercial, household, and individual activities.

A civil society-led movement in the country called Ako ang Bukas (AAB) thus started shaping up in 2020 to promote taking a quantum leap to climate neutrality by 2050, in collaboration with the government’s Climate Change Commission.

AAB convenor Dr. Angelina P. Galang has said the situation is an emergency thus calling for urgent actions. Then, she got Green Convergence for safe food, healthy environment and sustainable economy, a coalition of environment-caring groups and individuals she co-founded back in 2007, to spearhead the advocacy.

REDUCING CARBON FOOTPRINT

Carbon footprint refers to the greenhouse gas or carbon emissions produced by our daily activities. Lower is better. In a simple illustration in transport use, taking a public vehicle as an option to driving a long distance alone can reduce fossil fuel consumption, and thus, GHG emission which translates to one’s own carbon footprint.

Reducing carbon footprint is a goal of AAB with the Greenhouse Gas Calculator (GHG Calculator) at the heart of its campaign. It is a vital tool for entities, households, and individuals to track their carbon footprints to help them come up with effective ways to better manage their greenhouse gas emissions.

Activities that generate GHGs are inputted to the calculator – electricity use, transport fuel, and waste generated – and the tool calculates the carbon footprint. One’s carbon footprint will be graphically presented side-by-side the average carbon footprint of a Filipino. (Note: The GHG Calculator is not a physical gadget but a chart in the web.)

The AAB GHG Calculator – one for entities and another for households – has been/and is being shared with Local Government Units, businesses, schools and other interested entities. It can also be accessed through this link: aab-household-ghg-web.app, for households; and on request by entities, through greenconvergencephil.com. To know more and be part of the movement, look up this link: bit.ly/AKOANGBUKAS.

We have 25 years more before the roofs come down on our common home but each day brings us close to it. Unless we choose to overcome. Reducing our carbon footprints is one big way.

PH Leads Asia-Pacific Nations In Identity Document Fraud

Uncategorized

Marcus Aquino

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June 13, 2025

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PH Leads Asia-Pacific Nations In Identity Document Fraud

“The surges in AI-powered fraud, including deepfakes and synthetic identity documents, is exposing critical flaws in traditional verification systems,” said Penny Chai, Vice President, APAC, Sumsub.

THE PHILIPPINES LEADS the list of countries in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region that has seen a sharp rise in synthetic identity document fraud cases.

This, as artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more accessible, fraudsters are using AI-powered tools to construct synthetic identity documents, combining real data like a valid ID number with fictitious details to create a completely new, non-existent persona.

In sectors like fintech and healthtech, where digital onboarding and remote verification are common, these AI-generated documents are often used to impersonate legitimate users during Know Your Customer (KYC) checks. This allows bad actors to fraudulently access financial services or sensitive health records, posing serious risks to both service providers and end users.

“While fintech fraud is a familiar battleground, given the sector’s long standing exposure to financial crime and its evolution alongside crypto, the scale of fraud in healthtech signals a worrying new frontier. As more healthcare services go digital, the sector’s vulnerabilities are being exploited at pace, putting trust in the digital health system at serious risk,” said Penny Chai, Vice President, APAC, Sumsub.

“The surges in AI-powered fraud, including deepfakes and synthetic identity documents, is exposing critical flaws in traditional verification systems,” she added.

Globally, synthetic identity document fraud cases have surged by 195 percent, with APAC seeing an even sharper rise of 233 percent, underscoring the scale and sophistication of the threat.

Several APAC markets have recorded a sharp year-on-year rise in synthetic identity document fraud, or from the first quarter of 2024 to the first quarter of this year, with particularly steep increases in:
Philippines: 291-percent increase
Hong Kong: 209-percent increase
Thailand: 188-percent increase
Singapore: 184-percent increase
Australia: 117–percent increase

“To protect themselves, businesses must move beyond outdated approaches and adopt multi-layered, adaptive defenses. At Sumsub, our focus is on helping businesses stay one step ahead of fraudsters by anticipating new attack vectors and delivering smarter, more resilient full-cycle verification solution.”

In response to the rapidly growing fraud risks in the region and across the globe, Sumsub will host its inaugural What The Fraud Summit to serve as a dedicated platform for industry leaders, regulators and fraud experts to have bold conversations and exchange actionable insights to beat the global fraudemic. The Summit will be held in Singapore from November 19 to 20, 2025.

Sumsub is a full-cycle verification platform that secures the whole user journey. With Sumsub’s customizable KYC, KYB, Transaction Monitoring, and Fraud Prevention solutions, you can orchestrate your verification process, welcome more customers worldwide, meet compliance requirements, reduce costs, and protect your business.

Sumsub has over 4,000 clients across the fintech, crypto, transportation, trading, e-commerce, education, and gaming industries.

DepEd releasing teachers, NTPs’ medical allowances

Tracy Cabrera

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June 12, 2025

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DepEd releasing teachers, NTPs’ medical allowances

PASIG CITY — Consistent with Executive Order No. 64 (series of 2024), the Department of Education (DepEd) announced the full implementation of the expanded healthcare benefits for teaching and non-teaching personnel in public schools.

No less than Education Secretary Sonny Angara assured the release of a P 7,000 medical allowance designed to subsidize the cost of health maintenance organization (HMO)-type benefits in support for teachers’ health and well-being.

“The release of funds for this initiative is authorized under DepEd Order (DO) 16 and is intended to alleviate the health-related stress within the education workforce,” Angara said.

“As emphasized by President Marcos, we want our teachers and staff to stay healthy without having to worry about medical bills,” he added.

Angara likewise enthused that the move “is our way of recognizing the dedication of our teachers and staff. This allowance is a way to give back and ensure they never have to choose between their health and the stress of medical bills.”

Under DO 16 guidelines on the Grant of Medical Allowance to the Department of Education personnel, qualified teachers and non-teaching staff may avail the medical allowance in three options — DepEd-procured health maintenance organization (HMO) packages under group enrollment, individual availing of new or renewal of existing HMO-type products through payroll and direct cash payment through payroll in areas with limited or no access to HMO areas, as well as in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas.

“HMO packages are greatly encouraged to include benefits for high-risk cases such as pregnant women, senior citizens, or persons with disabilities. Moreover, the HMO coverage shall be for a period of 12 months,” reads part of DO No. 16.

Qualified recipients include permanent, co-terminus, fixed-term, casual or contractual personnel who have rendered at least six months of service in 2025 while those excluded from the program are consultants, job order employees, apprentices and student laborers who have no employer-employee relationship with the DepEd.

“In terms of disbursement, the ₱7,000 medical allowance, either for group or individual availment, will be released subject to the existing budget, procurement, accounting and auditing rules and regulations of DBM (Department of Budget and Management) Circular No. 2024-6.”

A Selfless Act Of Courage To Save The Flag

Domingo P. Herras

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June 12, 2025

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A Selfless Act Of Courage To Save The Flag

AS THE WHOLE nation celebrates the 127^th National Independence Day, this historic event underscores the historical significance of the Philippine flag and acquisition of our independence as a nation, which has witnessed various periods of conflict and struggle, and has become a symbol of hope and resilience.

In honoring our iconic sublime historical symbol of our Motherland, the Philippine national flag, let me share a very touching and interesting true-to-life story that no one would have ever believed and witnessed in our modern times, that a 12-year old shy sixth-grader Janela Arcos Lelis from Malinao, Albay could have committed a selfless act of bravery and strong courage, one would normally associate with soldiers on a battlefield to win the war, save lives, protect and depend our country’s sublime Philippine flag.

Her act symbolized loyalty and patriotism and resiliency of her love for her beloved country.

BRAVERY, PATRIOTISM

She touches many lives that went viral on social media, print, television as well as around the Globe, highly praised and recognized the act of bravery and patriotism of a Janela who risked her life to retrieve the Philippine flag from a rapid rising deep floodwaters during Typhoon “Juaning” in 2011.

Janela retrieved the flag on her brother’s plea amid rapid rising deep floodwaters. Her elder brother, Edcel, who was custodian of the flag entrusted to him by the school, was, also the Color Officer for Malinao National High School’s Citizen’s Army Training detachment.

SELFLESS ACT OF COURAGE

Janela’s deed was a “selfless act of courage”, reflective of her love for country and a constant reverence to the national symbol,” said NHCP Executive Director Ludovico Badoy.

In her crisp, white and blue uniform and high-cut red sneakers, the shy girl politely obliged endless requests for photos of her with school officials, employees and visitors during and on the sidelines of Thursday’s historic awarding and tribute ceremony.

“This plaque of recognition is given to (Lelis) for her exemplary action, risking life and limb to save the Philippine national flag from the rising floodwaters… at the height of Typhoon Juaning in Malinao, Albay,” said Badoy.

RECOGNITION

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) highly acknowledged and recognized her act of courage and patriotism with an award, including a Plaque, a small lapel pin Philippine Flag, and a full-sized Philippine flag, and a P20,000 cash prize. An NHCP Board Resolution also written and filed as a tribute and to honor Janela’s “act of courage and patriotism.”

During the school’s historic awarding ceremony, for her deed, a little lapel Philippine flag was pinned on the left collar of Janela’s uniform as a reminder of her deed amid raging floodwaters wrought by Typhoon “Juaning” in July 2011.

“We thank and admire Janela and we hope that your classmates and all the other young people in the country will follow your wonderful example of giving tribute to our national flag,” NHCP president Maria Serena Diokno said in Filipino before fastening the flag lapel pin on Lelis’ collar.

A GOOD SAMPLE

NHCP’s Heraldry Chief, Teodoro Atienza, said Janela Lelis was worthy of emulation as she had done something not even adults had accomplished.

In his more than 30 years at the NHCP, he had never encountered anyone who had risked his or her life to save the national flag, Atienza said in an interview. “She is a very good example to the youth… I hope people will learn from her in giving the right kind of respect to our flag.”

HISTORICAL SYMBOLISM

The NHCP got wind of her story when her brave act was immortalized in a photograph taken by a Malinao resident, Frank Lurzano. The photo circulated in social networking sites. This incident highlights the importance of the Philippine flag as a symbol of national pride and unity, even in the face of adversity.

Points Of View: Talk Without Tension

Vivien Mangalindan

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June 10, 2025

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WHY DOES IT seem like every conversation is turning into a showdown? Talk doesn’t have to feel tense. Somewhere along the way, though, we started confusing conversation with confrontation.

THE BACK STORY

At some point in time, we picked up this idea that having a conversation meant someone’s about to argue, prove a point, or shut someone down.

Why? Because we learned to talk louder – not listen better. To defend ourselves – not actually discover anything. To win the moment – not connect.

‘At some point in time, we picked up this idea that having a conversation meant someone’s about to argue, prove a point, or shut someone down.’

A CONNECTION, NOT A FIGHT

A good conversation isn’t a battle. It’s not about who’s right. It’s about connecting with the other person’s point of view.

Your voice matters – not because it’s the loudest, but because it’s yours: honest, shared, and heard.

WHERE DID THIS CONFUSION COME FROM?

A lot of us grew up thinking that talking meant:

Taking turns proving our side
Trying to win the moment
Waiting for someone to stop talking so we could jump in

We saw it at home. We saw it in school. We definitely saw it on TV.

No surprise that talking can feel like combat.

WHY DO WE MIX UP TALKING WITH CONFLICT?

It’s what we grew up with.
Talking at home? It meant getting corrected – or shut down. Now, “Let’s talk” makes us go: Uh oh… better get ready for battle.

Family dinner felt more like verbal wrestling than bonding.

The media made it messy.
TV panels, social media rants. It’s more interrupting than listening.

Ever watched a political debate? Total chaos – no connection.

Being real feels risky.
Sharing honestly means you might be misunderstood. So, we go on the defensive.

You say something personal, and someone hits back with, “Why would you think that?” Instantly, a wall goes up.

We confuse different with wrong.
Another view can feel like a threat. But it’s not.

A coworker shares a new idea. Instead of curiosity, you hear, “Hmm, you think I’ve been doing it wrong?”

School trained us to debate, not connect.
We learned to win arguments, not build understanding.

We were praised for brushing off someone’s point – not for saying, “That’s interesting – tell me more.”

WHAT IS A REAL CONVERSATION?

It’s being curious, not critical.
It’s “Help me understand” instead of “Here’s why I’m right”.
It’s making room for everyone – not just the loudest one.

It’s not a courtroom. It’s a connection.

LET’S CLEAR IT UP

Here’s what conversation should be:

Sharing – not shouting
Listening – not loading up your next comeback
Exploring someone else’s world – not just defending yours

We don’t need to agree on everything. We just need to stop acting like different = wrong.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE GET IT RIGHT?

Ideas grow. People feel seen. And relationships get stronger.

Conversation doesn’t drain you. It energizes you.

TIPS AND TECHNIQUES

If we want better conversations, we have to remember what it’s really about.

Not proving a point
Not being the loudest
Not always being right

Just this: “I hear you. Let’s talk.”

Remember: Next time you talk, skip the tension. Choose to connect – not compete.

Decline In FDIs Is Bad News For PH

Marcus Aquino

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June 10, 2025

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THE DECLINE OF net inflows of foreign direct investments (FDIs) to the Philippines is bad news for the business sector, as this also points to the hesitance of foreign businesses and investors to put their money in the country.

According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), FDI net inflows reached $498 million in March this year, reflecting a 27.8-percent drop compared to the $689 million logged during the same period last year.

In February this year, the BSP said net inflows of FDIs reached $529 million, declining by 61.9 percent from the $1.4 billion recorded in February last year.

For the first three months of the current year, FDI net inflows decreased by 41.1 percent to $1.8 billion from the $3 billion recorded in the same period last year.

According to the BSP, FDIs include investments by a non-resident direct investor in a resident enterprise whose equity capital in the latter is at least 10 percent, and investments made by a non-resident subsidiary or associate in its resident direct investor. The latter can be in the form of equity capital, reinvestment of earnings, and borrowings.

Japan, the United States, Ireland, Malaysia, Singapore, and South Korea were the top sources of FDIs to the Philippines, and were invested in real estate, manufacturing, financial and insurance, and administrative and support services industries.

NOT ACHIEVING TARGETS

What is disappointing is the Marcos administration said in January this year that it will double its efforts to enhance the flow of FDIs into the country.

This, as FDI net inflows to the country was short of target in 2024, or reaching $8.93 billion. The target for last year was $9 billion while the figure for 2023 was $8.925 billion.

“We will find out and if there is any deficiency, our business experts and our heads of agencies will immediately take steps to address whatever the impact will be,” said Palace Press Officer and Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro.

She added that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is also holding meetings to make sure that foreign investments in the country would further improve.

And in February, the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) said the removal of the Philippines from the grey list of the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) will strengthen the country’s position as an “attractive destination” for FDIs.

“Countries in the FATF grey list are placed under increased monitoring. This is a burdensome process for banks and other financial institutions. This process discourages correspondent banking relationships and international financial flows into the country,” it said.

“Exiting the FATF grey list is a significant step in strengthening the Philippines’ financial system and maintaining global confidence. The government remains committed to ensuring long-term compliance with international standards,” AMLC added.

But the latest figures on FDI net inflows show otherwise

Veteran Journalist Johnny Dayang Honored in 40th Day Memorial Mass

Geraldine D. Fernando

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June 9, 2025

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Veteran Journalist Johnny Dayang Honored in 40th Day Memorial Mass

Bonifacio Global City, June 7, 2025 — Veteran journalist and staunch advocate for truth, Johnny Dayang, was honored during a 40th-day memorial mass on Saturday at Serendra One Social Hall. Family, friends, colleagues, and public figures gathered to celebrate his life and contributions while renewing a call for justice after his tragic assassination.

Dayang’s distinguished journalism career included roles as Publisher of Philippine Graphic magazine, Former President and Chairman Emeritus of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI), former President of the Manila Overseas Press Club, and Secretary of the Catholic Mass Media Awards. He also served as a UNESCO Commissioner and was recognized as a youth leader early in his career.

Beyond journalism, Dayang demonstrated public service as Governor of the Philippine Red Cross, a volunteerism advocate and friend of current Chairman and former Senator Richard Gordon. He also served as Officer-in-Charge Mayor of Kalibo, Aklan, and worked in public relations for the Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Group of Companies.

The memorial drew notable attendees including former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, a close family friend who was Ninang at Johnny and his late wife Ofelia Dayang’s wedding anniversaries and at their son Juan Jr.’s wedding.

Johnny and Ofelia’s children—Bernadette; Juan Jr., with wife Maria Francesca; and Geraldine, with husband Atty. Jose Roderick Fernando and their children—were joined by extended family and supporters.

The Mass was celebrated by Fr. Alex Colmeiro, who spoke about compassion and justice in the face of tragedy.

Following the service, guests shared a merienda cena and viewed a memorial table featuring Johnny’s book Echoes from the Woodwork, a collection of columns chronicling two decades of Philippine history.

The Dayang family calls on authorities to intensify efforts to bring justice, as the hired gunman remains at large and the mastermind has yet to be identified.

Though his voice has been silenced, Johnny Dayang’s legacy endures as a symbol of truth, integrity, and service.

JETOUR G700 Shows Might In Taklamakan Rally

Marcus Aquino

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June 9, 2025

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JETOUR G700 Shows Might In Taklamakan Rally

“With cutting-edge hybrid technology and battle-tested resilience, the G700 embodies the future of adventure, proving that innovation and endurance can conquer any terrain. The model is expected to make its global debut in the fourth quarter of this year. With performance surpassing expectations, the G700 is poised to go ‘Beyond the Horizon,’” JETOUR said in a statement.

The JETOUR G700 demonstrated its might in the recently concluded 2025 Taklamakan Rally (TAR).

Driven by Li Chengpeng and Zhang Jianfeng, the G700 participated in the race before its official launch, winning multiple group stage championships with the entire team successfully finishing the race and conquering 4,500 kilometers (km) of China’s most brutal terrain over 13 grueling days.

The G700’s victory not only shattered doubts about the off-road capabilities of new energy vehicles but also showcased JETOUR’s innovation on the global stage.
“With cutting-edge hybrid technology and battle-tested resilience, the G700 embodies the future of adventure, proving that innovation and endurance can conquer any terrain. The model is expected to make its global debut in the fourth quarter of this year. With performance surpassing expectations, the G700 is poised to go ‘Beyond the Horizon,’” JETOUR said in a statement.

THE TOUGH TAR RALLY

The 2025 TAR Rally raised the stakes with extended routes totaling 2,350 km of special stages, weaving through deserts, canyons, and riverbeds.

The G700 dominated iconic sections like Yue Liang Po and the perilous N39 “Death Stage,” where scorching heat and relentless sandstorms tested its limits. Competing against elite rivals across 12 treacherous stages, the G700 stood out.

In all rallies, fuel-powered vehicles have long dominated but the JETOUR’s GAIA architecture proves hybrids can also compete and win. So, the G700’s dual-power Super Hybrid and Amphibious Range-Extender systems deliver instant torque, sustained power, and extended range —bringing electrified performance to the most demanding environments.

The G700’s Super Hybrid system features a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine with 45.5-percent thermal efficiency and an 800-volt 4C battery capable of 490-kilowatts of discharge power. The G700 has a 1,300 MPa armored battery casing and real-time temperature monitoring.

Also, the G700’s unibody frame, triple differential locks, and adjustable suspension ensured stability across diverse terrains.

Driver Li Chengpeng praised its comfort: “Unlike traditional off-roaders, the G700 lets you enjoy the ride even on brutal corrugated roads.”

Lower May Inflation Logged Amid Increase in Unemployed Filipinos

Marcus Aquino

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June 7, 2025

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Lower May Inflation Logged Amid Increase in Unemployed Filipinos

WHILE THE GOVERNMENT can rejoice in the lower 1.3-percent inflation in May, it has a lot to worry about when it comes to generating more quality jobs in the Philippines.

This, as the country’s unemployment rate was estimated at 4.1 percent, or slightly higher than the April 2024 unemployment rate of 4.0 percent.

This translates to unemployed persons numbering 2.06 million in April or higher than the 2.04 million in the same month last year. Also, the employment rate in April 2025 was recorded at 95.9 percent, slightly lower than the April 2024 employment rate of 96.0 percent.

To counter the challenges in the Philippine labor market, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) officer in charge and Undersecretary for Policy and Planning Rosemarie Edillon cited the rollout of the Trabaho Para sa Bayan (TPB) Plan and the entry of new investments as solutions.

“Attracting more investments to generate higher-quality and better-paying jobs, particularly in manufacturing and higher-value-added services, and expanding into new markets is essential to broadening our economy and opening up more job opportunities for Filipino workers,” she said.

“Attracting more investments to generate higher-quality and better-paying jobs, particularly in manufacturing and higher-value-added services, and expanding into new markets is essential to broadening our economy and opening up more job opportunities for Filipino workers,” Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) officer in charge and Undersecretary for Policy and Planning Rosemarie Edillon said.

LOWER INFLATION AIDED BY LOWER RICE PRICES

Meanwhile, the lower inflation rate of 1.3 percent in May is the lowest since the 1.2 percent in November 2019, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

National Statistician Dennis Mapa said this brings the year-to-date average inflation to 1.9 percent, or within the lower end of the government’s 2 to 4 percent target range.

The lower inflation was primarily attributed to the slower increase in the index of housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels at 2.3 percent from 2.9 percent in April.

However, the current administration has to thank the fact that global crude oil prices were at their lowest point for the current year in May, going as low as $57 to a barrel. On the other hand, global oil crude prices were hovering above $63 per barrel in recent days.

This resulted, among others, in the lowering of the rates of the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) in May, or to P12.2628 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) from P13.0127 per kWh in April.

Also, compared to last year, the agriculture sector was reeling from El Nino, that caused rice prices to escalate. Then, the government’s roll out of its P20 per kilogram (kg) rice program, dubbed ““Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na” helped ease food inflation to 0.7 percent in May 2025 or much lower than the 6.1 percent in May 2024.

In May, the average price of regular milled rice declined to P43.19 per kg from P51.11 in May 2024. The average price of well-milled rice fell to P49.45 per kg from P56.06 per kg last year while special rice declined to P59.80 from last year’s P64.41 per kg.

According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the appreciation of the peso to an average of P55.62 to a dollar in May also helped ease price pressures. In April, the peso averaged P56.85 to a dollar.

“Easing prices of rice and fish due to favorable domestic supply conditions in conjunction with lower oil prices, electricity rates, and the peso appreciation contributed to the downward price pressures for the month,” the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said.

However, the declining inflation rate can be rendered useless if the country sees an increase in the ranks of the unemployed, and a lack of quality jobs for Filipinos.

Vigilance amid surge in infectious diseases

Health

Fernan Angeles

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June 7, 2025

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Vigilance amid surge in infectious diseases

INSTEAD of addressing major health issues, the Department of Health (DOH) warded off public apprehension on what appears more like a ticking time bomb amid new waves of infectious diseases.

“There is no cause for alarm,” says the DOH despite a spike in HIV, monkeypox (mpox), and COVID-19 cases in the Philippines for which health advocates warned of another economic standstill should another lockdown take effect.

The most recent admission came from no less than Health Secretary Ted Herbosa who hinted at the January to April figures corresponding to a sexually transmitted disease referred to as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

HIV ON THE LOOSE

As per DOH figures, the DOH recorded 6,703 confirmed HIV cases from January to April 2025, which translates to a whopping 500 percent increase as compared to the recorded HIV cases for the same period last year.

Most of the newly reported infections were among males, with 33 percent aged 15–24 and 47 percent aged 25–34, according to DOH data. The youngest HIV-positive is a 12-year old sexually active child from Palawan.

Herbosa himself admitted that the DOH has submitted a recommendation to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to seriously consider the declaration of a national health emergency on HIV, as advised by the Philippine National AIDS Council.

RISING MONKEYPOX

From 2024 to date, the DOH has recorded a total of 911 confirmed mpox cases across the country.

The first human mpox case in the country was recorded and confirmed in July 2022, involving a traveler who had recently returned from abroad.

Recent reports indicate that the Clade II variant of the mpox virus, associated with less severe infections, is circulating in the Philippines. The mpox virus typically causes less severe infections.

The virus is primarily transmitted through close, prolonged skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact, and through contact with contaminated surfaces or materials. Symptoms include a skin rash or mucosal lesions, fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes.

There is currently no treatment approved specifically for mpox virus infections.

PERSISTENT COVID

From January to May, the DOH has recorded 1,774 confirmed COVID cases in the country. The figure, the agency said, is way below the 14,074 case load covering last year.

Despite the decline, the DOH claims to be “closely monitoring COVID-19 trends in Southeast Asia, where some areas have reported a spike in infections.

While the DOH did not specify the affected areas, there have been reports of a rise in the number of new COVID cases in Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand this year.

“We are actively monitoring COVID-19 trends including the recently reported increases in specific areas of Southeast Asia,” reads part of a DOH press statement.

There is no cause for alarm though, the agency added.

VIROLOGY CENTER

In a recent congressional hearing, Senator Bong Go, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, reiterated the urgent need to strengthen the country’s capability to address infectious diseases.

To start with, Go called on the administration to establish a Virology Institute and Center for Disease Control that would strengthen research and development on potential disease-causing agents and medical surveillance.

“What we need to do is to institutionalize infrastructures to combat emerging health threats,” added Go in reference to the passage of the Senate Bill 2893, or the Virology Institute of the Philippines Act.

Once enacted, the Virology Institute of the Philippines (VIP) will strengthen the country’s virology research capabilities, promote vaccine self-reliance, and ensure a more proactive approach to combating emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.

NO TO COMPLACENCY

Addressing recent public health concerns, Senator Bong Go urged vigilance even as he cautioned against complacency and reminded Filipinos to act before a potential outbreak escalates.

“Alam naman natin minsan na nagiging kumpyansa tayo. Pero kung mapipigilan natin sa lalong madaling panahon ay ‘wag po itong kumalat, at ‘wag na po umabot sana sa isang pandemya muli. Lessons learned po tayo. Dapat po’y unahin natin parati ang prevention

His remarks come amid renewed alerts from local government units following monkeypox outbreaks in multiple areas, the country’s worsening HIV crisis, and that of the renewed uptick in COVID-19 cases driven largely by the highly transmissible Omicron subvariant NB.1.8.1 in neighboring countries such as India, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and others.

Lower May Inflation Logged Amid Increase in Unemployed Filipinos

Marcus Aquino

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June 7, 2025

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