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APRIL 24 - APRIL 30, 2026
Volume 20 - No.17 • 16 Pages
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Proposal under review would expand federal banking compliance rules; officials confirm policy remains in development with no implementation timeline
by AJPress
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The administration of Donald Trump is evaluating a policy that would require U.S. financial institutions to collect and verify the citizenship status of their customers, according to administration officials and regulatory analysts. As of mid-April 2026, no executive order has been signed and no federal rule mandates such a requirement.
The proposal, described by officials as under active review, would represent a significant expansion of existing financial compliance standards and could reshape how banks onboard and monitor customers.
u PAGE 3
Landmark ruling commits former Philippine president to trial at The Hague, the first former Asian head of government to face the ICC.
by AJPress
THE HAGUE — The International Criminal Court committed former Philippine president Rodrigo Roa Duterte to full trial Thursday after unanimously confirming three counts of crimes against humanity tied to killings alleged during his tenure as Davao City mayor and later as
president. He becomes the first former head of government from Asia to face trial before the court.
Pre-Trial Chamber I ruled there are substantial grounds to believe Duterte is criminally responsible for murder and attempted murder under the Rome Statute, the legal threshold for a case to advance to trial and not a finding of guilt.
of victims of alleged extrajudicial killings gather at Atencio-Libunao
The Appeals Chamber affirmed the Oct. 28, 2025
to the jurisdiction of ICC in handling his cases, thus the request for his immediate and unconditional release is moot . PNA
Strait of Hormuz disruption drives fuel shortages, forcing airlines to cut routes and raise fares ahead of peak travel season
by AJPress
Airlines worldwide are scaling back operations as a sharp rise in fuel costs—linked to disruptions in global oil supply—continues to strain the aviation sector.
At the center of the disruption is the reduced flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for roughly 20 percent of global supply. The constraint has pushed
jet fuel prices to nearly double their pre-conflict levels, prompting airlines across Asia, Europe, and North America to cancel flights, adjust schedules, and increase fares.
Industry data from aviation analytics firm Cirium shows that 19 of the world’s 20 largest airlines have reduced planned capacity for May 2026. Global seat availability
Robredo rules out 2028 presidential bid, signals second term as Naga mayor
Justice secretary leads Prague mission as government pursues legal pathways to bring former lawmaker back for trial
by AJPress
NAGA CITY — Former Philippine Vice President Leni Robredo has ruled out a run for any national position in the 2028 elections, delivering her most definitive statement yet that her political future will remain at the local level.
The decision was signed by Presiding Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc, Judge Reine Adélaïde Sophie Alapini-Gansou, and Judge María del Socorro Flores Liera, and transmitted Thursday to the ICC Presidency.
Three Counts, 78 Alleged Victims
The chamber confirmed all three counts
Justice secretary leads Prague mission as government pursues legal pathways to bring former lawmaker back for trial
by AJPress
MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed Thursday that a senior delegation is departing for the Czech Republic to explore legal options, including deportation or extradition, to facilitate the return of former Ako
Bicolano-language radio interview on April 21. She added she would “most probably” seek reelection as mayor of Naga City, citing the limits of a three-year term.
Denied travel request, asset-freeze move, and planned plunder complaints mark a critical phase in one of the Philippines’ largest infrastructure investigations u PAGE 2
“I am sure for myself that I won’t take part in the national elections,” Robredo said in a
The remarks formalize a shift that began after her 2022 presidential loss to Ferdinand Marcos Jr., after which she moved away from national politics and refocused on lo-
2
by AJPress
PAGE 1
covering 49 documented incidents, at least 76 people allegedly killed and two who survived attempted murder. The judges found the alleged acts formed part of a widespread and systematic attack against a civilian population between November 1, 2011 and March 16, 2019.
Count 1 covers the alleged killing of at least 19 people, including three children, in Davao City between 2013 and 2016, attributed to what the court described as the Davao Death Squad. Count 2 covers the alleged killing of at least 14 individuals designated as high-value targets during the early years of Duterte's presidency. Count 3 covers 43 additional alleged killings and two attempted murders during barangay clearance operations, including the alleged killing of 17-year-old Kian Loyd Delos Santos, shot by police in what prosecutors describe as part of the charged operations in Caloocan City in 2017. The case now moves to a new Trial Chamber where guilt must be established beyond reasonable doubt, a significantly higher legal standard.
Defense Denies All Charges Duterte, through lead counsel Nicholas Kaufman, denies all charges and maintains his innocence absolutely. The defense argued during February 2026 hearings that no direct evidence links Duterte's public statements to specific killings, and that he repeatedly instruct-
ed police to act within the law. The chamber ruled those statements must be read within the full context of alleged patterns of conduct, not in isolation. Duterte waived his right to attend the confirmation hearings.
Jurisdiction Settled the Day Before
The ruling followed a separate Appeals Chamber decision on April 22 rejecting the defense's jurisdictional challenge, the last procedural avenue to halt the case. The defense had argued the ICC lost authority when the Philippines withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019. The Appeals Chamber, by majority, held the court retains jurisdiction over crimes allegedly committed while the Philippines was still a member state, from 2011 through March 2019. The defense's request for Duterte's immediate release was simultaneously dismissed as moot.
Reactions
The Marcos administration, which facilitated Duterte's arrest and transfer to The Hague in March 2025, had not issued a formal statement on Thursday's ruling as of publication time. Senator Imee Marcos, a Duterte ally, criticized the ruling as raising concerns about the selective application of international justice, questioning whether smaller nations face disproportionate scrutiny compared with more powerful states.
Families of those killed in anti-drug operations welcomed the decision. Randy delos San-
tos, uncle of Kian Loyd Delos Santos whose 2017 killing is among the charges, said across the two days of rulings that justice was approaching after years of waiting. Human Rights Watch, which has documented the drug war extensively, had previously described the ICC proceedings as a rare opportunity for accountability after years of inadequate domestic prosecution.
Duterte, 81, remains in ICC custody. The court will constitute a new Trial Chamber to conduct full proceedings. Under Article 63 of the Rome Statute, the accused is generally required to appear in person at trial.
All charges against Rodrigo Duterte remain allegations. He is presumed innocent under Article 66 of the Rome Statute until proven guilty at trial.. n
has declined by about three percentage points, reversing earlier growth projections.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) warned on April 16 that several European countries could face jet fuel shortages within weeks if supply constraints persist. Some markets are operating with fewer than 20 days of reserves, raising the risk of localized disruptions.
Asia and Europe lead cutbacks Airlines in Asia-Pacific, heavily dependent on Middle Eastern crude, have moved quickly to reduce flights. Vietnam Airlines, AirAsia, and other regional carriers have cut routes and raised fares to offset rising fuel costs.
European airlines have taken similar steps. Lufthansa Group plans to cancel approximately 20,000 shorthaul flights through October, while KLM and Scandinavian Airlines have also reduced schedules. Officials say most cancellations are driven by cost pressures rather than immediate shortages.
U.S. carriers warn of higher fares
In the United States, major airlines are signaling that higher ticket prices may persist.
United Airlines has reduced its schedule and warned that sustained fuel costs could significantly increase expenses. Delta Air Lines has also trimmed summer capacity while reporting higher operating costs. Low-cost carriers face the
Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co to the Philippines.
Justice Secretary Fredderick A. Vida is leading the mission to Prague, where Philippine officials are expected to meet with Czech counterparts to determine how Co can be returned to face pending criminal charges before the Sandiganbayan.
Vida will be accompanied by Chief State Counsel Dennis Chan, with discussions focused on legal pathways available under Czech and international law. Officials did not provide a definitive timetable, citing the need to comply with host-country legal procedures.
No extradition treaty, multiple legal pathways
The Philippines does not have an extradition treaty with the Czech Republic, prompting authorities to consider alternative approaches. These include deportation proceedings under Czech immigration law and cooperation frameworks under the United Nations Convention against Corruption.
Justice officials said coordination may also involve in-
ternational policing channels through the Interpol, subject to the legal requirements of the detaining state.
Legal observers note that proceedings in Europe can take time, particularly if the individual contests removal or seeks asylum protections.
Charges pending before anti-graft court
The case against Co stems from alleged irregularities involving public infrastructure projects, including flood control works. Philippine authorities have confirmed that arrest warrants were issued in 2024 by the Sandiganbayan in connection with graft and malversation charges.
The Office of the Ombudsman has stated that Co’s return is necessary for arraignment and trial proceedings to move forward. As of publication, no court has rendered a final judgment on the allegations.
Two-track process: repatriation and prosecution
The government’s handling of the case reflects the distinct mandates of the DOJ and the Office of the Ombudsman.
The DOJ, under Secretary Vida, is responsible for se-
curing Co’s return through diplomatic and legal channels abroad, including coordination with foreign governments and international legal frameworks.
The Office of the Ombudsman, led by Jesus Crispin Remulla since October 2025, is tasked with prosecuting graft-related cases. The office has the authority to subpoena respondents, file or amend charges, and present evidence before the Sandiganbayan.
Co denies allegations Co has denied the accusations in earlier public statements made while outside the country. His legal representatives have not issued a new statement following confirmation of his detention abroad.
Process subject to foreign jurisdiction
Philippine officials underscored that any transfer of custody will depend on Czech domestic law and due process. The government has expressed readiness to comply with all legal requirements to secure Co’s return, but cautioned that timelines remain uncertain. n
greatest pressure due to narrower margins, with some raising fees or cutting services to manage rising expenses. Uncertain outlook
More than 150,000 international flights have been cut worldwide between March and June, according to industry estimates.
Although Iran stated on April 18 that the Strait of Hormuz remained open to commercial traffic, industry analysts caution that supply chains could take weeks to months to stabilize even under a de-escalation scenario. Airlines, which finalize schedules months in advance, have already locked in capacity reductions for the summer travel season, limiting the potential for near-term recovery. n
cal governance. She won the Naga mayoralty in 2025 by a wide margin and assumed office on June 30, becoming the city’s first female mayor. Robredo said her decision is driven less by political calculation than by governance constraints. She described the three-year mayoral term as insufficient to carry out long-term programs, particularly those requiring coordination with national agencies. Her administration has prioritized flood mitigation, water access, traffic management, and basic services, but she acknowledged that reforms remain incomplete.
Her withdrawal reshapes the opposition landscape ahead of 2028. Vice President Sara Duterte has already declared her candidacy, while Robredo had remained a potential contender in early polling discussions despite repeated reluctance.
Opposition figures, including Leila de Lima and Antonio Trillanes IV, had previously urged her to clarify her plans, arguing that uncertain-
ty could delay the emergence of alternative candidates.
Senator Risa Hontiveros has indicated openness to a national run under a unified slate, though no consensus candidate has been finalized.
Robredo’s trajectory since 2022 reflects a pattern of declining national opportunities in favor of local executive work. She had also turned down a Senate bid in 2025, choosing instead to build a governance record in Naga,
where her late husband, Jesse Robredo, served for multiple terms.
For now, Robredo has positioned herself firmly at the local level, focused on completing her administration’s agenda rather than reentering national politics. Whether that stance holds through the 2028 election cycle remains uncertain, but her latest statement leaves little ambiguity about her immediate plans. n
by AJPress
MANILA
— The Philippines is set to join a major global bond benchmark managed by J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.beginning January 29, 2027, marking a significant step in the country’s integration into global financial markets.
The index, known as the Government Bond Index–Emerging Markets (GBI-EM), is tracked by large international funds. Inclusion means Philippine government bonds will be automatically considered by these investors, increasing global exposure to the country’s debt market.
The transition will be phased in gradually to avoid market disruption. Once complete, the Philippines is expected to account for about 1.7 to 1.8 percent of the index, potentially bringing in $3 billion to $5 billion in new investments over time.
A shift with real-economy implications
While technical, the impact extends beyond financial markets. Increased demand for government bonds can lower borrowing costs, giving the
government more flexibility to fund infrastructure and public services.
Officials say the move reflects years of reforms to make the country’s financial system more accessible to global investors.
Market reforms pave the way for inclusion
The effort was led by the Department of Finance and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, including streamlined tax processes and improvements in how government bonds are issued and traded.
Finance Secretary Ralph
Recto said broader investor participation could help reduce borrowing costs.
Runway to 2027 focuses on execution
The 2027 timeline allows time to finalize administrative improvements and ensure smoother access for foreign investors.
Eli Remolona Jr. said a deeper bond market strengthens the country’s ability to manage inflation and interest rates.
The Bureau of the Treasury is expected to continue issuing larger, more liquid bonds ahead of the inclusion. n
the Office of the Ombudsman escalated legal actions and signaled that criminal complaints may be filed in the coming weeks.
A shift from silence to direct challenge
In a video statement released April 21, Romualdez said his earlier decision not to comment had been “abused” to construct what he described as a false narrative. He said he would now respond directly and contest the allegations through legal channels.
“I will not allow myself to be turned into the scapegoat,” he said.
Romualdez, a former House Speaker, has come under intensified scrutiny as the investigation widened.
Disputed roles in budget decisions
Romualdez identified former Senate President Francis Escudero and former lawmaker Elizaldy Co as figures he said were involved in budget decisions under review.
He argued that while Congress authorizes appropriations, implementation of flood control projects - including
procurement and supervisionfalls under executive agencies. Escudero and Co have denied wrongdoing in prior statements.
Ombudsman actions expand across legal fronts
The Office of the Ombudsman, led by Jesus Crispin Remulla, has taken multiple steps:
Authorities denied Romualdez’s request to travel to Singapore for a medical visit, citing an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order; the Ombudsman asked the Sandiganbayan to issue a preliminary hold departure order; and the case was referred to the Anti-Money Laundering Council for possible freeze-order proceedings.
Officials said the measures are intended to preserve jurisdiction. Romualdez’s counsel said any asset freeze requires court approval.
Arrest abroad heightens enforcement posture
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirmed that Co was arrested in Prague, Czech Republic, on April 16, 2026. Authorities are exploring legal avenues for his return.
Scale of the investigation
by AJPress
MANILA — The Philippines’ Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) told lawmakers that bank transactions totaling approximately P6.7 billion linked to Vice President Sara Duterte and her husband, lawyer Manases Carpio, were flagged by financial institutions as either “covered” or “suspicious,” according to testimony presented before the House Committee on Justice.
The disclosure forms part of congressional proceedings reviewing financial records in connection with impeachment complaints against the Vice President, with lawmakers shifting toward documentary evidence, including asset declarations and banking data.
Financial trail surfaces in congressional review
AMLC Executive Director Ronel Buenaventura said the agency’s database recorded hundreds of reportable transactions from 2006 to 2025 involving accounts associated with Duterte and Carpio.
The total flagged amount reached about P6.7 billion, with roughly P3.7 billion linked to Duterte and P2.9 billion to Carpio, based on figures presented during the hearing.
The probe centers on allegations that funds for flood control projects were diverted, poorly implemented, or not completed as reported.
Government reviews have examined thousands of projects nationwide with combined allocations reaching into the hundreds of billions of pesos. Estimated losses cited in hearings remain subject to verification.
The Ombudsman has publicly referred to possible plunder complaints, while other reported allegations include anti-graft and related corruption claims.
Legal status remains preliminary
As of April 23, 2026, the case remains in the investigatory stage. No court finding of guilt has been issued, and all allegations remain unproven.
Romualdez has denied all allegations.
Next phase of proceedings
Officials said criminal complaints, including possible plunder charges, may be filed as early as May 2026, subject to evidentiary review. Proceedings would be brought before the Sandiganbayan. n
Laundering Act, banks are required to report: covered transactions, or single-day movements exceeding P500,000; and suspicious transactions, identified based on indicators such as unusual volume, inconsistent financial behavior, or other risk markers.
AMLC officials emphasized that these classifications are regulatory triggers, not determinations of wrongdoing.
The Anti-Money Laundering Council serves as the country’s financial intelligence unit, consolidating such reports for analysis and potential investigation.
Lawmakers pivot to documentary scrutiny
House Committee on Justice Chair Rep. Gerville Luistro said proceedings are entering a phase focused on financial documentation, including statements of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALNs), tax filings, and AMLC records.
Lawmakers indicated that the inquiry will assess whether financial flows are consistent with declared assets and income, with further hearings expected to examine specific transactions in detail.
Duterte camp disputes implications
More than 600 transactions were included in the report, reflecting both routine reporting thresholds and transactions flagged by banks for irregular patterns.
What flagged transactions mean under Philippine law
Under the Anti-Money
Statements attributed to the Vice President’s camp have questioned the interpretation of AMLC findings, emphasizing that flagged transactions are not evidence of unlawful conduct.
Allies and representatives have argued that large transaction volumes may reflect
legitimate financial activity accumulated over many years, and that AMLC reports consist of raw banking data requiring context and verification. They also stressed that any conclusions should be reached only through proper legal and constitutional processes, not preliminary legislative review.
The camp has further cautioned against premature public conclusions, noting that no formal case has established wrongdoing related to the reported figures.
No finding of liability at this stage
As of the latest hearings, no court has established criminal liability in connection with the flagged transactions. AMLC officials reiterated that the figures presented are indicative of reportable activity, not proof of illicit conduct.
Under Philippine law, any determination of wrongdoing would require investigation, case build-up, and adjudication before the appropriate courts or constitutional bodies. Next phase centers on forensic review of financial records
Lawmakers said the next phase will involve deeper examination of financial records and possible requests for clarification from relevant parties. The AMLC data is expected to form part of the evidentiary record as the House continues its evaluation of the complaints before it.
Officials underscored that the process remains ongoing, with findings subject to verification, response, and due process. n
PAGE 1
A shift beyond identity verification
Under current law, banks must verify customer identity through the Customer Identification Program (CIP) framework established under the USA PATRIOT Act and implemented by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. These requirements include collecting a customer’s name, date of birth, address and taxpayer identification number, but do not extend to verifying citizenship status.
Preliminary discussions suggest the proposed policy could require documentation such as passports or birth certificates from both new and existing account holders, framed as an extension of
“know your customer” standards.
A policy still taking shape
Despite growing attention, the proposal remains in development and has not advanced to formal issuance.
There is no signed executive order, no published Treasury rulemaking and no announced implementation date. Even if adopted, the measure would likely require additional agency guidance and a phased compliance timeline.
Legal exposure and compliance burden
Legal analysts say a citizenship verification mandate could face scrutiny under existing privacy protections and financial regulations governing personal data.
Banks would need to imple-
ment significant operational changes, including system upgrades and documentation protocols. Industry estimates suggest compliance costs could reach into the billions. Concerns have also been raised that additional requirements could affect access to banking services for some populations.
A proposal with unresolved scope
The administration has not issued formal details on enforcement, exemptions or treatment of existing accounts, leaving key questions unresolved.
For now, the measure remains under internal review, with any rollout dependent on formal executive action, regulatory guidance and potential legal challenges. n
by AJPress
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The highest possible monthly Social Security retirement benefit in 2026 will reach $5,181, according to the Social Security Administration, a figure that reflects the program’s upper boundary rather than the experience of most retirees.
Federal data shows that amount applies to individuals who claim benefits at age 70, the latest age at which delayed retirement credits are applied. By comparison, the maximum benefit falls to $4,152 at full retirement age and $2,969 at age 62, illustrating the significant impact of claiming decisions on monthly income.
Earnings history drives benefit size
Social Security calculates retirement benefits based on a worker’s highest 35 years of earnings, adjusted for inflation. To qualify for the maximum payment, an individual must have earned at or above the program’s taxable wage cap for at least 35 years.
In 2026, that cap is set at $184,500, meaning only in-
come up to that threshold is subject to Social Security tax and included in benefit calculations. Workers with fewer than 35 years of covered earnings or lower lifetime income receive proportionately smaller benefits.
Average payments remain far lower
The gap between the maximum and typical benefit remains substantial. The Social Security Administration estimates the average monthly benefit for retired workers at about $2,071 in 2026, following a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment at the start of the year.
That places the maximum benefit at more than twice the average payment, reflecting differences in lifetime earnings, work duration, and retirement timing.
Timing and work status matter
For individuals born in 1960 or later, full retirement age is 67. Claiming benefits earlier results in a permanent reduction, while delaying benefits beyond that age increases monthly payments through credits that accrue until age 70.
Workers who claim before reaching full retirement age and continue earning income may also see temporary reductions under the program’s earnings test, which withholds benefits above specified income thresholds until full retirement age is reached.
Structural pressures persist
The focus on maximum benefits comes as Social Security faces long-term funding challenges. According to the agency’s trustees, the program’s primary retirement trust fund is projected to be depleted in the early 2030s absent legislative changes, after which incoming payroll taxes would cover a reduced share of scheduled benefits.
A benchmark, not a baseline
While the $5,181 figure often draws attention in public discussions, it represents a theoretical maximum under specific conditions. For most Americans, Social Security functions as a foundational source of retirement income rather than a high-end payout, typically supplemented by savings, pensions, or continued employment. n
Court cites medical evaluation; defense contests prosecution evidence in Bulacan flood control case
by AJPress
MANILA — The Third Division of the Sandiganbayan has tentatively scheduled the testimony of a former senior official of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the ongoing bail proceedings of former senator Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., as hearings continue in a graft and malversation case involving a flood control project in Bulacan.
Associate Justice Ronald Moreno set the appearance of former DPWH undersecretary Roberto Bernardo for April 24, 2026, following an evaluation by the court’s physician after Bernardo cited health concerns, including acute bronchitis. The setting was described in court as tentative, pending final confirmation of his condition.
The case involves a P92.8-million flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan.
Prosecutors allege that public funds were released for the project, which they claim was not completed as reported. The allegations remain under judicial determination.
Inspection findings raised in court
During proceedings, Associate Justice Karl Miranda referenced an ocular inspection conducted in Barangay Bunsuran. Statements made in court indicated that DPWH records described the project as more than 95 percent complete.
However, testimony and court reporting on the inspection indicated that no structures were observed at the site aside from steel sheet piles. The court has not issued findings on these observations and continues to assess the evidence presented.
Testimony and defense challenge
Revilla’s legal team challenged portions of the prosecution’s evidence, arguing in court that testimony linking the former senator to the project relied on hearsay, including statements attributed to a deceased official. Revilla has denied wrongdoing.
Custody and next steps
Revilla surrendered to authorities in January 2026 following the filing of non-bailable charges and remains detained at the Quezon City Jail while the court determines whether the evidence of guilt is strong, the legal threshold for bail in such cases.
The court is set to hear Bernardo’s testimony next, subject to confirmation, as proceedings continue. n
The prosecution presented Henry Alcantara, a former district engineer admitted as a state witness, who testified on what he described as a “standard operating procedure” in certain infrastructure projects involving the handling of public funds. His statements remain subject to cross-examination.
The Supreme Court affirmed its ruling that cyber libel prescribes one year from the time it is discovered.
by GIDEON TINSAY Philstarlife.com
The resolution, written by Associate Justice Henri Jean Paul B. Inting, was made as the SC En Banc denied the separate motions for reconsideration filed by Berteni Cataluña Causing and the Office of the Solicitor General.
The judges upheld that under the Revised Penal Code, written libel has a one-year prescription period, and no law excludes cyber libel from this period.
The SC reiterated that cyber libel is not a separate crime, only libel committed through a computer system, and that a higher penalty for cyber libel under the Cybercrime Prevention Act does not imply that its prescriptive period should be extended.
The court added that when laws on the prescription of crimes are unclear, they must be interpreted in favor of the accused, making the Revised Penal Code's oneyear prescriptive period for cyber libel prevail over the Cybercrime Prevention Act's 15-year period.
SC also affirmed that pre-
scription begins upon discovery of the offense, not upon publication, as the law states that prescription runs from the time the offended party or authorities discover the crime.
The court also clarified that its earlier ruling in Tolentino v. People, which stated that cyber libel prescribes in 15 years, is not binding on Causing because the case was decided through an unsigned resolution, binding only the parties involved.
How the SC judges voted
Concurring judges include Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen and Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa, including five others.
Dissenting judges include Associate Justice Kho Jr. and six others who argued that cyber libel should be a distinct crime with a 15-year prescriptive period due to heavier penalties.
In December 2020, Cotabato Second District Representative Ferdinand L. Hernandez filed a cyber libel complaint with the prosecutor against Causing, related
to Facebook posts accusing Hernandez of pocketing over PHP 200 million in relief goods for Marawi victims. Hernandez stated he discovered the posts on February 4 and April 29, 2019.
Criminal Informations were filed before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) against Causing in May 2021. Causing filed a motion to quash the Informations, arguing that they were already time-barred under the Revised Penal Code because more than one year had passed since the posts were uploaded. The RTC denied the motion, ruling that cyber libel prescribes in 12 years under Republic Act No. 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
In their motions for reconsideration to the SC, the OSG argued that cyber libel should prescribe in 15 years under the Cybercrime Prevention Act, citing SC's decision in Tolentino v. People, while Causing argued that the prescription for cyber libel should start from the publication date rather than from discovery. n
A perspective shaped by experience abroad, and what it reveals about public space, shared responsibility, and the habits that define a nation
A letter published in a Philippine newspaper recently asked a question that has long circulated quietly: why do Filipinos litter?
For those who have spent years living abroad, the question is not abstract. It is grounded in daily contrast. In many cities outside the Philippines, public space is treated as shared property. Rules are followed not because enforcement is constant, but because expectation is. That difference is not accidental. It is the result of systems that are sustained, consistent, and reinforced over time.
THE electoral terrain ahead of the 2028 election is becoming more competitive. This seems to be the case if we are to believe the results of recent surveys by some of the country’s leading polling firms.
While it is still early to say that there is indeed a definitive trend, there are signs that we may be witnessing an early shift from a narrative of “dominance and invincibility” as projected by Vice President Sara Duterte to a “competitive electoral race.”
In the Philippines, the pattern is familiar. Litter accumulates in streets, waterways, and public areas despite the presence of laws that prohibit it. Enforcement is uneven. Public education campaigns appear, then fade. The behavior persists across income levels and regions. This is not a failure of awareness. It is a failure of consistency. What appears on the street is not the problem itself. It is the outcome of a deeper condition: the absence of a widely enforced and widely accept-
This is reinforced by the recent statements made by Dr. Ranjit Rye, head of the Octa survey firm, on their upcoming report on the public’s voting preference in the 2028 elections. He said that while Sara continues to lead the survey, her numbers, based on their survey cycle, have dropped for the first time. Meanwhile, Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo has surged from nine percent in their previous survey to 22 percent, trimming down Sara’s
lead to just nine points.
Similar to this is WR Numero’s last report. Sara continued to lead the preference race, but her support hasn’t expanded, with her closest competitors, Robredo and Sen. Raffy Tulfo, gaining. This is notable as the two have repeatedly said that they have no plans to contest the 2028 presidential election.
Equally revealing is Pulse Asia’s year-on-year (March
ed expectation that public space belongs to everyone, and that everyone is accountable for it. A pattern that already exists Clean spaces in the Philippines are not rare.
babe’s eye view
Babe Romualdez
NOW more than ever, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations must move with utmost urgency to push for a binding Code of Conduct in the South China Sea – firmly supported by like-minded nations that understand what is at stake not only for our region, but for the global economy.
Recent tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have once again reminded the world how fragile critical trade routes can become
ROGER LAGMAY
From Hormuz to the South China Sea: A warning we must heed
when geopolitical rivalries intensify. That narrow passage, through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply flows, has long been a flashpoint. Even the slightest disruption – or the mere threat of it – immediately sends shockwaves through global markets, affecting prices, supply chains and economic stability far beyond the region.
The lesson is not distant. It is immediate, relevant and urgent.
If anything, the South China Sea is even more consequential. It is not just a regional wa-
terway – it is a global economic lifeline, with an estimated $3 trillion to $5 trillion worth of trade (about one third of all global maritime trade) passing through it annually – carrying energy supplies, manufactured goods, food and essential commodities that sustain economies all across Asia, the United States, Europe and beyond. It goes without saying that any prolonged instability in these waters would not remain contained; it would ripple across
any and all loss, liability, damage, expenses, cost, charges, claims, actions, causes of action, recoveries, judgments, penalties, including outside attorneys’ fees (individually and collectively “Claims”) which AJPI may suffer by reason of (1) Client’s
They are concentrated.
They are most visible in well-managed districts, certain local government units, and areas where tourism or institutional standards require consistent upkeep. In these settings, cleanliness is sustained not by chance, but by structure. Enforcement is consistent. Responsibility is clearly assigned. Expectations are reinforced over time.
Some cities demonstrate how this can work at the local level, where ordinances are applied with continuity and community participation supports compliance. In tourism-driven areas, the incentive is economic, and standards are maintained because livelihoods depend on them. In privately managed districts, systems are monitored and accountability is visible.
The pattern is consistent across these examples. Cleanliness improves when rules are enforced, when standards are clear, and when those standards are applied without interruption.
The contrast is instructive. The issue is not whether Filipinos can maintain clean environments. The evidence shows that they can. The issue is whether those same conditions are sustained beyond controlled or well-managed spaces, and extended into everyday public life.
Lessons from within the region
The most relevant comparisons for the Philippines are found within Asia, in societies that made deliberate choices about civic behavior and sustained those choices over time.
In Japan, students clean their own classrooms and school facilities as part of daily life. The practice is not symbolic. It is formative. It establishes, early and repeatedly, that maintaining one’s environment is a personal responsibility.
Singapore took a more policy-driven approach. Cleanliness was treated as a national priority, supported by enforcement, education, and long-term public messaging. Penalties were visible and consistent. More important, expectations were made clear and applied broadly.
These approaches differ in method, but they converge in outcome. Civic discipline is not assumed. It is built through repetition, reinforcement, and time.
The role of Filipinos abroad
More than twelve million Filipinos live and work outside the Philippines. Their economic contributions are well documented. Less examined is the perspective gained from living within systems where civic order is embedded in everyday behavior.
That perspective carries practical value. It reflects how public spaces function when expectations are clear and consistently applied.
The issue is not whether Filipinos abroad recognize the difference. It is whether that recognition translates into influence.
Influence, in this context, is behavioral. It is expressed in small, visible acts. Using proper waste disposal. Maintaining shared spaces. Observing rules without the need for constant enforcement. These actions are simple, but they are instructive.
When practiced consistently, they establish a standard. When repeated across households and communities, they begin to shape expectation.
Cultural change does not begin with declarations. It begins with what is done, repeatedly, in ordinary settings.
Extending what already exists
The Philippines has long been defined by bayanihan, the capacity for collective action in moments of need. That instinct demonstrates a clear understanding of shared responsibility.
The gap is not in principle. It is in application.
Maintaining public cleanliness does not require urgency or crisis. It requires consistency. It requires the same sense of shared responsibility to be applied in situations where no immediate reward or recognition is present.
This is not about adopting external standards. It is about applying existing values more consistently in everyday life.
A matter of alignment
Lasting change in civic behavior depends on alignment. Enforcement must be credible. Education must be sustained. Social expectations must be clear and reinforced over time.
No single intervention is sufficient on its own. Progress depends on whether these elements operate together, consistently, and across generations.
For Filipinos at home and abroad, the question is not whether improvement is possible. The evidence suggests that it is.
The question is whether the standard will be practiced. (AJPress) n
PAGE 6 continents, disrupting industries, raising costs and undermining growth.
This is precisely why no single country should be allowed to dominate or control this shared maritime space. Freedom of navigation is not a slogan. It is a principle that underpins the modern global economy, ensuring that all nations – large and small – can move goods and resources without fear of coercion or obstruction. But when that principle is challenged, whether through excessive maritime claims, aggressive maneuvers or the militarization of key features, the consequences are immediate and far-reaching. Considering the current situ-
ation, ASEAN now finds itself at a defining crossroads. For years, discussions on a Code of Conduct (COC) have progressed, but at a measured and often cautious pace. While that caution may once have been understandable, it is no longer sufficient today.
The geopolitical environment is shifting, and the risks are growing. The experience of the Strait of Hormuz shows just how quickly tensions can escalate and how costly uncertainty could become. Clearly, we cannot afford to wait for a similar crisis to unfold in our own region before taking decisive action.
A meaningful COC must go beyond general principles or diplomatic language. It must
PAGE 6
2025-March 2026) report on the public trust rating of the country’s top two government leaders. In March 2026, while Duterte led President Bongbong Marcos Jr. with a 54 percent trust rating compared to the latter’s 35 percent, her numbers fell from 61 percent in March 2025, while the President’s numbers improved from 20 percent in March 2025. Meanwhile, Marcos Jr.’s distrust rating declined from 54 percent to 44 percent; in contrast, people who distrust Sara increased significantly from 16 percent to 26 percent. The issue of corruption is said to be the main driver of growing public distrust.
As I have mentioned many times before, the Vice President’s numbers are no longer just “holding steady,” they’re flattening and even beginning to dip.
This alone, however, is not unusual, especially since the election is still far away. But what is crucial is what’s happening around Sara. The terrain is becoming dynamic and competitive.
Since her rise to national politics, Sara has enjoyed a “preference lock.” She benefited greatly from the political capital and residual goodwill she inherited from her father, and the absence of a consolidated and viable alternative. As such, many voters, outside of the Vice President’s hardcore base, weren’t actively choosing; they were defaulting. But then again, default support is fragile. It is only good until a credible choice emerges.
The surveys could indicate that voters may be beginning to reevaluate their choices. This is
national community continues to enjoy unimpeded access to this critical maritime corridor.
important. In our electoral experience, early leads often reflect name recall and machinery, while gradual and even sudden shifts reflect changing public sentiment. A plateauing of numbers can signal that a candidate has already captured most of their “easy” support and is now struggling to expand beyond it.
This places Duterte in a strategic dilemma. Her political brand is built on the story of inevitability and continuity. But inevitability only persuades when it is uncontested. Her rivals, by contrast, benefit from momentum. They are not defending a lead; they are building one. Every gain reinforces the perception of viability. And in politics, perception can harden into reality faster than the data itself.
If this trajectory becomes definite, the 2028 election ceases to be a referendum on Duterte continuity. It becomes a contest about alternatives, political direction, contrast and choices.
It is therefore not surprising that Duterte’s camp has adopted a two-pronged strategy comprised of a “charm offensive” to soften and humanize her image, alongside a determined effort to evade the impeachment process. So far, neither appears to be working for Sara.
Sara’s appearances at graduation ceremonies and her videos greeting people on almost every public holiday appear inauthentic and lacking in empathy. On the other hand, her camp’s insistence to evade and derail the impeachment process, especially with the serious allegations made by her alleged bagman, Ramil Madriaga, and the anticipated disclosure of her
bank accounts and SALNs, only adds to the public distrust. Instead of regaining lost ground, she seems to be losing more.
If Sara’s numbers continue to flatten and her rivals gain ground, the steady rise of political alternatives becomes a real possibility. This could also lead to the formation of a new set of voters that could alter what is considered a forgone conclusion, comprised of people who were previously disengaged, undecided or even resigned to the “inevitable.”
This dynamic can be described as a “reverse bandwagon effect.” Instead of gravitating toward the perceived frontrunner, voters begin shifting toward “underdog candidates” who appear to be catching up.
Underdog stories have a strong appeal. From David versus Goliath, to the 300 Spartans at Thermopylae, to Ginebra’s “never say die” spirit. Yes, people love winners, but they are also drawn to the idea of unexpected but deserving victors, those who weren’t always the sure bet or the most favored, but managed to prevail over the strong when it counted most. If this becomes a definitive trend, Sara’s narrative risks shifting from “inevitability” to “vulnerability,” from “she will surely win” to the very real possibility that “she can be defeated.”
As they say, if it bleeds, it can be brought down. (Philstar.com) * * *
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.n
be clear, credible and most importantly, binding. It should establish rules that prevent miscalculation at sea, reduce the risk of confrontation and provide mechanisms for peaceful dispute resolution. It must be anchored firmly in international law, particularly the principles enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which remains the cornerstone of maritime governance.
Equally important, it must reflect fairness.
The South China Sea is not the domain of any single nation – it is a shared space, used by many and vital to all. A Code of Conduct must preserve the rights of coastal states while ensuring that the broader inter-
But ASEAN cannot – and should not – carry this burden alone. Support from like-minded countries will be essential. These are nations that have a clear and legitimate interest in maintaining open sea lanes, upholding international law and ensuring stability in one of the world’s most important regions. Their role is not to inflame tensions or create blocs, but to reinforce a rules-based order that benefits everyone.
In Washington, this point is well understood. In my conversations with policymakers, legislators and members of the strategic community, there is a consistent recognition that the South China Sea is not merely a regional concern but a global one. There is broad bipartisan support for freedom of navigation and for efforts that promote stability and predictability in the Indo-Pacific region. The United States – along with its allies and partners – clearly
recognizes that what happens in these waters has direct implications for global trade and economic resilience.
I remember a recent discussion with a senior official who put it quite plainly: “The world cannot afford another Strait of Hormuz situation – especially not in the South China Sea.”
It was a simple statement, but one that essentially captured the urgency of the moment, and that urgency must now translate into action.
ASEAN has always prided itself on consensus-building and diplomacy. These remain its strengths. But leadership today requires more than dialogue –it requires resolve.
The region must move decisively to conclude a binding Code of Conduct that is both respected and enforced. The stakes are simply too high for anything less. If we fail to act, we risk allowing tensions to fester and escalate, misunderstandings to multiply and the rules that have long governed our seas to erode. If we suc-
ceed, however, we can ensure that the South China Sea remains what it should be: a sea of peace, stability and cooperation.
The choice is clear.
As ASEAN chair, the Philippines is in a unique position to help drive this agenda forward. It is an opportunity not just to convene discussions, but to shape outcomes – to ensure that the region moves with purpose and clarity toward a framework that benefits all.
In the end, this is not about confrontation; it is about preservation of peace, of stability and of a system that has allowed nations to prosper together. Because once the rules disappear, it is no longer law that governs the sea – but might and power. (Philstar.com)
* * *
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * *
Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com n
by Bella Cariaso Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — Every cent of her wealth came from legitimate sources, Vice President Sara Duterte said yesterday, refuting allegations during the House impeachment hearings that she amassed unexplained wealth.
“My answer to all the slander is simple. My service record is clean. I have never been charged with the misuse of public funds. I declared all my assets and money in my statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN). Every cent is from a legitimate source and has the corresponding documentation,” Duterte added.
Testifying Wednesday before the House committee on justice’s clarificatory hearing as part of ongoing impeachment proceedings against Duterte, Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) executive director Ronel Buenaventura revealed bank accounts tied to Duterte and her husband Manases Carpio had been repeatedly flagged for suspicious and covered transactions from 2006 to 2025 worth a total of P6.77 billion.
In a summary report, Buenaventura said the AMLC identified 313 covered transactions and 17 suspicious transactions in Duterte’s accounts, and 317 covered transactions and 16 suspicious transactions in her husband’s.
The flagged transactions totaled P6.77 billion, broken down into P3.77 billion linked to Duterte’s accounts and P2.99 billion to Carpio’s.
Buenaventura said the records showed an inflow of P1.83 billion into Duterte’s accounts and P2.59 billion into Carpio’s, or P4.43 billion in total deposits. On the out-
flow side, he said P1.21 billion was withdrawn from Duterte’s accounts and P343.32 million from Carpio’s.
The AMLC identified P791.1 million in transactions that could not be clearly determined based on available records. It also noted a marked increase in the historical trend of Duterte’s bank transactions, which surged to P208.15 million in 2007.
“The timing of all this is also undeniable. The series of allegations and cases against me began after I left the Cabinet,
PAGE 9
by alexis romero Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos does not feel alluded to by former speaker Martin Romualdez’s slamming corruption in the administration, Malacañang said yesterday, maintaining that it was the Chief Executive who ordered the probe on questionable flood control projects.
“The President does not view it that way. In 2025, he saw that there were anomalies, so he ordered an investigation. When you say ‘executive,’ the President is not the only one in the executive,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at a press briefing.
“Based on what we heard from the statement of the former speaker, he talked about the implementation on the ground. So perhaps that’s the reason why other officials of DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) are being investigated,” she added.
Castro said command responsibility prompted the President to order a probe on the issue. “It was not neglected, there was no coverup,” she said.
With regard to Romualdez’s remark that he refused to be the “fall guy” on the corruption issue, Castro said she was not sure what the lawmaker really meant.
“If the former speaker can help in the investigation, the
government, the President would want that. Those who are accountable should be held to account,” she said.
Castro was mum on the state of affairs between Marcos and Romualdez, his first cousin. “I have not seen them talk,” the Palace press officer said.
The Sandiganbayan Seventh Division announced its issuance of a precautionary
Philippine Embassy in Washington clarifies no change in policy, warns against irreversible renunciation decisions
by AJPress
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. has issued an advisory urging Filipino Americans to remain calm following concerns over a proposed United States Senate bill that would end dual citizenship, emphasizing that the measure
has not been enacted into law and does not affect current policy.
The embassy said it continues to monitor discussions surrounding the proposal but stressed that it remains a bill without legal effect. Similar measures have been introduced in the past without being enacted, reinforcing that
no immediate changes are in force.
No change to dual citizenship framework
The embassy stated that there is no change to existing policies on dual citizenship at this time, pointing to established legal frameworks in both the United States and the
10
under the others,” Poa added.
when I refused to sign a national budget that I could not defend to the people,” Duterte said in a statement.
“Real thieves don’t put money in the bank—but in a suitcase,” Duterte noted.
Bank accounts disclosed in SALN under ‘others’
The camp of Vice President Duterte clarified the bank accounts were disclosed and listed under the “others” portion of Duterte’s SALN.
At a press conference, lawyer Michael Poa, spokesperson for the 16-man legal team of Duterte, was reacting after House lawmakers said Duterte did not declare even a single peso in cash from 2019 to 2024.
“I guess the simple explanation in consultation with, of course, the client because she disclosed, she disclosed. I can understand the confusion because it’s accurate to say that there is no line item of cash in the bank. But what I’m saying is she disclosed it because it was all lumped under the ‘others,’” Poa said.
“Because the personal items, as you can see in SALN. It’s written there, vehicles, others, etc. So the cash in the bank is included in the others. So, she disclosed. There is no saying that she doesn’t have cash in bank. It’s just lumped
“I just wanted to clarify because we might say that the House members are lying. It’s not like that. What they’re saying is there is no line item of cash in bank. So now we’re just clarifying upon consultation with our client that she disclosed all of those, actually,” Poa added.
The AMLC furnished the justice committee with two sets of documents: a report on covered transactions involving Duterte and her husband, and another on suspicious transactions from 2006 to 2025, as indicated in the subpoena. It also submitted financial intelligence and investigation reports.
“The claim that the SALN (of Duterte) and the AMLC report do not match is a conclusion itself, that’s our position. There is nothing that doesn’t match. Obviously, we cannot disclose how we will defend the Vice President. What happened yesterday is something we already expected,” Poa added.
Committee members believe the discrepancy in Duterte’s SALNs may indicate a pattern of under-declaration, raising questions about her reported wealth – an issue central to determining probable cause for impeachment based on allegations of unexplained and ill-gotten wealth.
Malacañang was mum on the alleged billions of pesos
Philippine Embassy in Washington clarifies no change in policy, warns against irreversible renunciation decisions
hold departure order (PHDO) against Romualdez upon the request of the Office of the Ombudsman, after finding probable cause to believe that the Leyte lawmaker would leave the country to evade possible arrest and prosecution. The ombudsman is investiga-
ting the Leyte lawmaker for money laundering, plunder, and bribery among other offenses.
No intention to flee
Romualdez’s legal counsel and spokesman Ade Fajardo said they have received reports on the issuance of the PHDO and stressed the former
in transactions linked to the bank accounts of Vice President Duterte and her husband, saying the information is no longer new.
Marcos funding Trillanes?
The Vice President Duterte also alleged that President Marcos is funding former senator Antonio Trillanes IV, who testified that members of the Duterte family – from the former president down to his children – allegedly received drug money worth P181.6 million from a certain Sammy Uy.
“For nearly a decade, Mr. Antonio Trillanes IV has been peddling the same incredible story about alleged billions in bank accounts. From 2016 to 2026, nothing in his narrative has changed. What has changed, however, is the machinery now backing him,” Duterte said.
In his sworn affidavit, Trillanes said the Duterte family encashed P181.6 million in checks allegedly tied to Uy, adding that these acts amount to impeachable offenses, including betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption and other high crimes.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III said the Senate is prepared to convene as an impeachment court as early as May 4 if the House formally transmits the articles of impeachment against Duterte by then. — Alexis Romero n
by Carl martin agustin Inquirer.net
Last year’s Typhoon Tino dropped a month’s worth of rain over the course of a few hours, and left behind hundreds of deaths and millions of pesos in agricultural and structural damage. For some, Tino was an unavoidable tragedy and the direct result of an unforeseen natural disaster. But with questions of flood control and ghost projects, to others, it was an example of how corruption and institutional incompetence directly resulted in the loss of Filipino lives.
After firsthand accounts and videos of murky, mocha-colored flood waters surfaced in Barangay Guadalupe during the typhoon, many pointed to Slater Young’s The Rise at Monterrazas as a significant contributor to the flooding in Cebu. That is, on top of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) slamming a cease-to-operate order on the project last November.
However, after the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Region 7 (Central Visayas) confirmed that it lifted the cessation of operations order (CDO) against the Monterrazas project, Young broke his silence on the matter.
speaker has no intention of evading the law.
“At the outset, we categorically clarify: Rep. Romualdez is in the Philippines and has not left the country. Any report or insinuation that he has fled is false and irresponsible,” Fajardo said. — Daphne Galvez, Jose Rodel Clapano n
“That tragedy was real, and it deserves real answers, not speculation, not misinformation,” said the content creator/civil engineer in a statement posted on YouTube. “We also know that what we experienced is nothing compared to the suffering of those who were directly affe-
cted by the flood. We tried to never lose sight of that, and we waited for the truth.”
Slater’s defense
“When the accusations were made against the Monterrazas project, our first instinct was to respond immediately, but we held back because we believed that the right thing to do was to let the proper investigations run its course, to let the science and evidence speak rather than to add to all the noise and confusion,” added Young, putting forward an independent study conducted by the Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (IESM) Environmental Hydrology Laboratory at the University of the Philippines, Diliman.
“These were done by scientists with no connection to the project, no stake in the project,” he added.
“They found that Monterrazas did not cause or worsen the flooding. What caused it was the sheer volume of rain.”
According to the study, the Monterrazas project helped mitigate the occurrence of flash floods during Tino. Its detention ponds acted as stopgaps that held incoming rainwater, allowing it to flow slowly rather than having it all go down at once. The study also produced models and comparisons to prove that flooding levels would have been the same even without the existence of the Monterrazas site—and in fact, the project is said to have reduced overall flooding in the area by around two percent compared to if the area was left undeveloped.
“The science does not just say we did not cause the flooding, it says that the systems we had built in place helped reduce it. This is not our conclusion; this is theirs. This study is public, and anyone who wishes to go through it is free to do so,” shared the Pinoy Big Brother winner.
Though, despite the facts and figures Young has put forward, public opinion has largely been left unchanged, with others unconvinced of the validity of the UP study cited. Although Young claims that several third-party researchers have peer-reviewed the findings and have reached similar conclusions, all we have so far is a Facebook summary that won’t hold up as an undeniable fact.
Should the IESM Environmental Hydrology Laboratory publish the complete study and its findings are supported by more environmental organizations, then this would likely result in greater support for Monterrazas. But even then, it’s also safe to say that even that won’t have much impact on the court of public opinion.
“We understand that for some, no study or finding will ever be enough. Grief does not follow a timeline, and we respect that,” Young added. “But Cebu deserves real solutions and real solutions can only come from correctly identifying the real cause—that is, work that is ongoing, and Monterrazas is committed to being a part of it; I am committed to being a part of it.”
PAGE 9
Reactive, never preventive
After the Monterrazas development was placed under scrutiny following Typhoon Tino, DENR initially halted the project, citing several breaches of forestry and environmental laws, notably the Forestry Code of the Philippines, the Clean Water Act, the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) System, as well as lapses in their Environmental Compliance Certificate.
It’s also important to note that more than 700 trees were reportedly cut down within Monterraza’s 140-hectare property.
In short, these violations were happening right under our noses, and it took a region-wide disaster and several viral TikToks for anything to be done about it. And to make things worse, while Young’s statement addressed the flooding aspect of the controversy, nothing regarding the violations was ever discussed.
According to EMB-7 Regional Director John Edward
Ang, the order was lifted on the basis of “documented remedial works, compliance milestones, and settlement of penalties” by The Mont Property Group, Inc., meaning, penalties were paid off, and lapses were made up for—after hundreds of lives were lost to Typhoon Tino. Again, too little too late.
But as easy as it is to solely direct anger and attention towards Young and Monterrazas, DENR and the Cebu local government are also to blame. Frankly, the spotlight on Young has directed attention away from the P26 billion in flood control funds Cebu received from 2016 to 2025 that have amounted to nothing, and the rules and regulations that allowed Monterrazas to operate to begin with.
Through DENR and the Cebu local government, penalties can be paid off and cease to operate orders can be simply lifted. Meanwhile, the people of Cebu lost their friends and family, their property, and their livelihoods. But Young and The Mont
Property Group, Inc.? Barely anything by their standards. A few hate comments, a slap on the wrist, and the approval to carry on with the project.
In the coming months, when typhoon season hits again, what will be their solution? Will it be to simply add more compliance checks? More detention pools? What about improving environmental compliance standards to begin with? Why not outright ban developments in flood-prone areas? In the end, Young and Monterrazas are only playing by the rules they’ve set.
Developers can handle the fines and penalties this game of trial and error asks for. But everyone else? The best they can do is survive the flood.
So yes, as Young says, Cebu deserves real solutions. But simply adhering to the bare minimum set by DENR and the local government won’t be enough. After all, it’s that bare minimum that got the people of Cebu to where they are today. n
9
Philippines.
U.S. law has long recognized the permissibility of dual citizenship through constitutional interpretation and court precedent. On the Philippine side, Republic Act No. 9225, or the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003, allows former natural-born Filipinos who became naturalized citizens of another country to reacquire Philippine citizenship.
Individuals born in the United States to at least one Filipino parent are recognized as dual citizens at birth under Philippine law, subject to proper reporting with Philippine authorities.
Irreversible consequences of renunciation
The embassy cautioned that voluntary renunciation of Philippine citizenship carries permanent legal consequences. It emphasized that individuals who formally renounce their Philippine citizenship may no longer be eligible to reacquire it under RA 9225, describing such action as irreversible.
The warning follows reports of confusion within segments
of the Filipino American community, where unverified claims about imminent policy changes have circulated.
Advisory against misinformation
Officials urged the public to refrain from acting on unverified information and to rely on official communications from government sources. The embassy said it would issue updates should there be any material developments affecting dual citizenship.
The advisory reflects ongoing efforts by Philippine diplomatic missions to provide
legal clarity and prevent unnecessary actions that could carry long-term implications for overseas Filipinos.
Guidance for the community Filipino Americans seeking clarification were advised to contact the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. or their nearest Philippine consulate. At present, both U.S. and Philippine laws governing dual citizenship remain unchanged, and no enacted legislation has altered the rights or legal status of dual citizens. n
by AJPress
LOS ANGELES — BINI’s April 2026 schedule in the United States unfolded as a tightly sequenced series of high-visibility appearances, spanning the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, a soldout program at the GRAMMY Museum, and a scheduled recognition at Billboard Women in Music.
Taken together, the run marked a significant expansion of the group’s international visibility across live performance, institutional programming, and industry recognition.
Coachella: Entry into a global festival stage
BINI performed on the Mojave stage during both weekends of the April 2026 Coachella festival in Indio, California. The appearance placed the group within one of the most internationally visible music festivals, where artist bookings are closely watched indicators of global exposure.
The group’s return set in the second weekend drew strong audience response, with elements of Filipino identity incorporated into the performance, including the display of the Philippine flag.
GRAMMY Museum: A soldout industry platform
On April 21, BINI headlined
a sold-out Global Spin Live program at the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles. Official event materials described the session as a combination of moderated discussion and live performance, with a focus on the group’s music and upcoming EP, Signals.
The format placed the group in an industry-facing setting that emphasized both performance and creative process, extending their presence beyond festival audiences into institutional programming. Billboard Women in Music: Formal recognition
BINI is scheduled to receive the Global Force Award at Billboard Women in Music on April 29 at the Hollywood Palladium. The recognition places the group among artists acknowledged for expanding their reach across international audiences.
A measured trajectory
BINI’s April run is defined by the sequence of platforms it engaged: a major global festival, a museum-based music program, and an industry awards stage. Each setting represents a different layer of visibility—public audience,
Image from Instagram/@bini_ph
institutional engagement, and formal recognition.
Rather than a single breakout moment, the month reflects a sustained period of exposure across multiple segments of the global music landscape.
A widening frame for P-pop
The group’s placement across these platforms indicates a broader presence for Filipino pop acts within international circuits. While longterm impact remains to be measured, April 2026 stands as a clear point of reference for the scale and scope of that visibility. n
by CeCile Baltasar Philstarlife.com
Sarah Geronimo attended an Earth Day event with her previously estranged father Delfin on Sunday, April 19. Photos posted by fans showed the father-daughter duo embracing and posing for photos. With the Geroni-
mos at the TECNO Earth Day Run 2026 event was one of the singer's pet dogs Nina.
The Philippine pop royalty also documented the day in an Instagram Story showing herself and Nina crouching low with Delfin standing behind them.
"Tatay Delfin gwapo," she captioned the photo.
The pop star's fans shared their excitement on social media comments.
"Bakit [parang] mas happy ako kesa [kay] [S]arah G? Hahaha," an Internet user wrote.
"Kaya lahat ng blessings [binigay] sa kanya [kasi] mapagmahal [siya] sa pamilya. Idol ko yata 'yan," another
fan comment. Reported rift Sarah's parents have been known in the entertainment industry to be overprotective. Various reports have asserted that they did not approve of Sarah's relationship with actor-entrepreneur Matteo Guidicelli.
Kiko Estrada credits grandfather Paquito Diaz as enduring influence
reflects on legacy of iconic screen villain, drawing a distinction between public persona and private mentorship in Philippine cinema
by AJPress
MANILA — Filipino actor Kiko Estrada has credited his late grandfather, Paquito Diaz, as a defining influence on his personal and professional life, describing him in interviews as the “hero” behind his work ethic and career direction.
The remarks were reported in connection with Estrada’s recent television work, including his lead role in Totoy Bato, where he has pointed to discipline and resilience learned from his grandfather.
A legacy shaped by contrast Diaz, who died in 2011, remains widely recognized for portraying antagonists across decades of Philippine cinema, earning a reputation as one of the industry’s most prominent “kontrabida” ac-
Daniel Padilla gets ‘bayaw’tag from Kaila Estrada’s half-brother Luigi Muhlach
by Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net
Fans were quick to react after Kaila Estrada‘s half-brother, Luigi Muhlach, casually referred to Daniel Padilla as his “bayaw” (brother-in-law), sparking buzz among supporters of the actress and actor, collectively known as “KaiNiel.”
In an Instagram post on April 21, Muhlach shared photos and videos from his 39th birthday celebration.
Padilla left a friendly greeting in the comments, writing, “Happy kaarawan, tol!!!
FORE!!!” Luigi then replied, “Maraming salamat, bayaw!
April boys, let’s go!!”
Social media users, particularly the supporters of Padilla and Estrada, flooded the comments with reactions, many saying they
were “kilig” (excited) and surprised by the exchange. Luigi is the son of actors Aga Muhlach and Janice de Belen, making him the half-brother of Kaila, who is Janice’s daughter with former partner John Estrada.
While Padilla and Kaila have yet to directly confirm their relationship, the pair have been seen together on several occasions. The actor attended and delivered a song performance at the actress’ recent 30th birthday party.
Padilla also attended the recent family event of the Estradas and De Belens. The actor’s youngest sister, Leila Ford, also expressed her support for her brother and Kaila’s growing romance.
“Masaya lang po talaga
by Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net
Matet de Leon sparked online buzz after posting a cryptic message about inheritance, days after her brother Ian de Leon reiterated his position as the sole legal heir of their late mother, National Artist Nora Aunor.
Matet took to Facebook on Tuesday, April 21, to share a photo with siblings Lotlot, Kiko, and Kenneth de Leon, which was taken during the latter’s recent wedding. The image was accompanied by a pointed caption.
“Post ko lang uli. Eto nga pala ang ngiti ng mga ampon na walang mana. Mukha ba kaming may pake?” Matet wrote. (Posting this again. This is the smile of adopted children who have no inheritance. Do we look like we care?)
The post quickly drew attention, now with almost 9,000 likes and 800 comments, for its apparent reference to ongoing tensions surrounding the estate of Aunor, who died of acute respiratory failure last year. The siblings’ conflict seemed to have started after Ian, in a recent interview, described himself as Aunor’s sole legal heir while maintaining that his role does not exclude his adoptive siblings.
On April 16, the first death anniversary of their mother, Lotlot, through her legal counsel, clarified her non-involvement in initiatives established by Ian, such as a corporation and a foundation for their late mother.
Lotlot’s camp said she was not consulted regarding the administration of their mother’s estate and has not been
in communication with Ian for some time.
Meanwhile, Lotlot and Matet were notably absent from the recent event marking Aunor’s first death anniversary, which was organized by Ian. The gathering was attended by fans known as “Noranians.”
Lotlot and Matet instead held a separate intimate Mass in honor of the late veteran actress, joined by family members and seasoned actress Maricel Soriano, a longtime friend of Aunor.
Matet, however, made a post that she went to Aunor’s grave at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani, but critics appeared to have targeted her and her daughter online, prompting her to say that in the future, they would just visit not on the exact date, but either before or after her mother’s death anniversary. n
Despite the disapproval from Sarah's side of the family, the couple got engaged in November 2019, with Guidicelli announcing it on Instagram through a series of photos showing the couple, with a diamond ring clearly on Sarah's finger.
In February 2020, the couple married at a low-key, intimate wedding in Taguig. Soon after the ceremony, Sarah's mother Divine reportedly arrived extremely upset. Discovering that her daughter was married, she allegedly called the couple "traydor."
A rift then reportedly began between the Geronimos and their daughter and new son-in-law.
In 2024, however, Sarah admitted during a press interview that she and her mother were back on speaking terms. Divine had reached out to Sarah to congratulate her daughter on two wins that March: being named Woman of the Year by Billboard Philippines and winning the Global Force Award at the 2024 Billboard Women in Music event in Los Angeles. n Popsters Official / Facebook
by Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net
Angelica Panganiban has warned the public against an online scam using the name and photos of her business resort.
In an Instagram post on Wednesday, April 22, Panganiban informed her followers about a fake Facebook page posing as her business, Mangrove Resort Subic.
“SCAM ALERT – PLEASE READ & SHARE. We have been informed of a fake Facebook page pretending to be Mangrove Resort Subic and illegally using our name and photos to scam guests,” she wrote.
The actress stressed that her resort does not process transactions through unofficial channels.
“We DO NOT accept payments through unofficial pages. We ONLY have ONE official Facebook page. Any similar pages are FAKE and NOT affiliated with us!” she added.
Panganiban urged the public to remain cautious when dealing with suspicious online transactions.
“DO NOT send payments, personal details, or booking information to any suspicious page. DO NOT click unknown links or entertain offers that seem too good to be true. Always verify by contacting us through our official page or direct contact details,” she said.
The post included an official statement from Uy Coronel & Villamor Law Offices, which was hired by the actress as they plan to coordinate with authorities to ad-
dress the issue.
“If you have been contacted or victimized, please report immediately and inform us. We are currently working with authorities regarding this matter. Stay alert and help us protect others by sharing this post,” Panginiban noted.
According to the law firm, the fraudulent page has been actively responding to inquiries and accepting payments without the resort’s knowledge or consent, with reports that several individuals have already been scammed.
Meanwhile, Panginiban has been generating online buzz following her daring role opposite Mylene Dizon, in which they play lesbian lovers in the Prime Video’s new series “The Silent Noise.” n
PAGE 11 tors.
Over a career spanning from the late 1950s to the early 2000s, he appeared in numerous films opposite leading stars of his era. That public image, however, differs from how he is remembered within his family.
Estrada has described Diaz as a mentor figure, emphasizing guidance and personal influence rather than his well-known screen roles. Continuity across genera-
tions
Estrada is part of a multi-generational acting family, the son of actors Gary Estrada and Cheska Diaz, and the nephew of actor Joko Diaz, linking his career directly to Diaz’s legacy in Philippine film and television. His work in action-driven projects reflects a continuation of themes long associated with earlier generations of Filipino cinema. n
Chiu.
by Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net
Kim Chiu marked her 36th birthday by giving back to transport workers, distributing free gasoline, meals, and grocery packs to hundreds of jeepney and tricycle drivers.
On Tuesday, April 21, Chiu shared photos on her Instagram Story showing the initiative, which benefited around 600 drivers. The donations were funded through proceeds from her recent closet sale.
“Thank you to everyone who supported my #KimChiuClosetBazaar dahil sa tulong niyo nakapagbigay po tayo sa 600 Jeepney and
Tricycle drivers ng gas, meal and grocery pack (We were able to provide gas, meal, and grocery pack to 600 drivers). Maraming salamat (Thank you so much),” she wrote.
She also expressed gratitude to the group Buena Pamilya for helping carry out the activity. “Thank you Buena Pamilya for helping me make this possible. Di ko kakayanin mag isa ito lahat (I wouldn’t get to do all this alone. Salamat sa inyo (Thanks to you guys),” Chiu added.
Chiu first held her closet sale in January, saying at the time that proceeds would go to charity, though she had yet to disclose the benefici-
Photo: Instagram/@chinitaprincess
aries.
The actress has been involved in various charitable efforts. In 2025, she made headlines after personally purchasing construction materials for victims of the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu province. Recently, Chiu also drew attention after completing a short business course in Paris.
The actress-host is currently riding the success of the romantic drama thriller “The Alibi,” where she stars alongside Paulo Avelino. Following its digital release last year, the series is now airing on free television. / edv n
ako for them. I’m so happy that she makes my brother happy,” Ford said at the
Kaila’s mother, Janice, and Padilla’s mother, Karla Estrada, likewise showed support for the pair’s relationship.
Padilla was previously in an 11-year relationship with actress Kathryn Bernardo, who is now rumored to be dating Lucena Mayor Mark Alcala. n
by JOHN PATRICK MAGNO RANARA Philstarlife.com
THE actor-turned-politician gave a tour of the private museum and events venue on his Facebook page, showcasing its intricately designed interiors inspired by Spanish architecture. The estate is equipped with a four bedroom apartment, two studio type apartments, and a main house with six bedrooms. Its oth-
er facilities include a music room, a conference hall, a main kitchen, three ballrooms, and one meeting hall.
According to its description, Museo De Padilla provides guests with a "unique taste of pre-colonial Filipino-Spanish palette" and boasts a "maze-like layout that you [can] wander and get lost in awe."
"It was once a home for the Padilla clan. Now, as an ancestral house and events
venue, it welcomes individuals, partners, and colleagues to hold their historical event for history itself," it added. In its Instagram page, it can be seen that the property has hosted weddings, photoshoots, and other intimate events.
Museo De Padilla is located along Maple Street in West Fairview, Quezon City. Those who are interested in purchasing the property can reach out through this email: eavcalendars@gmail.com. n
NEW YORK CITY, 16 April
2026 – Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, accompanied by officials from the Consulate, the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, and the Mayor’s Office of Immigration Affairs, visited several Filipino-owned businesses and dialogued with Filipino community members at a walk-about around the “Little Manila” enclave in New York City’s Queens Borough on 16 April 2026. The activity served to observe the 22nd Annual Immigrant Heritage Week declared by the New York City Government on 13-20 April 2026.
The walk-about enabled members of the Filipino immigrant community to meet officials from the Consulate and the Mayor’s Office in their neighborhood and to share their concerns as well as their personal experienc-
es in their place of business. Filipino-owned businesses and Filipino community members shared concerns on immigration policies, community engagement, peace and order, sanitation, and ease of doing business.
Representatives from the Mayor’s Office also shared information on the services provided by the City Government for immigrants and business owners, particularly for micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs.
The walk-about was the
first such activity conducted by the Consulate, the Mayor’s Office, and the Filipino community in New York City in recent years. It is part of the Consulate’s efforts to bring both consular and City Government services closer to the community.
Members of the Filipino-community and Filipino business owners expressed appreciation to both the Consulate and the Mayor’s Office for the activity and looked forward to similar activities in the future. n
PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS
There are about 35 million cases of Alzheimer’s Disease worldwide, with a new case diagnosed every 2 seconds. It is projected to be 150 million by 2050. In the United States, there are about 7.2 million (around one in every 9 seniors), projected to be 14 million by 2060. In the Philippines, there are about 1 million cases, expected to rise to 2.5 million by 2050.
Gut microbiome
In this greater age of consciousness about health in general and in the brain health, in particular, various studies have been conducted, some still Ongoing, to find out the various factors that affect brain health. The focus is on the influence of the gut microbiome (the balance of good and bad bacteria in our gut, of the food we eat, or do not eat, or drink, medications we take, nutrients we lack, etc. The studies also examine the role of probiotics, prebiotics, dietary changes, and fecal microbiota transplant (FMT), which is a procedure that transfers healthy donor stool into a patient’s colon to restore beneficial gut bacterial flora balance. Don’t worry, the transfer is not through the mouth but directly into the colon. It is about 90 percent successful. The food items that help in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome are fermented foods, like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, tempeh, kombucha, and miso. In Asia, “buro,” like fermented rice and fish or veggies, fermented
rice and shrimp (balao-balao), and others, are beneficial to the gut microbiome. But be careful about the chemical additives in them.
Hidden dangers
Greek yogurt, which has less sugar. Eating junk food, soft drinks, alcohol, tobacco, vaping, chronic use of marijuana, antibiotics, all cause damage to the microbiome, and thus negatively affect brain health. An imbalanced microbiome is also harmful to our immune system, gastrointestinal (digestion-metabolism), and musculoskeletal system- skeletal, cardiovascular, and overall health.
Triple-biotics
As far as aids to our gut microbiome, the “triple-biotics,” one capsule with prebiotic, probiotic, and post-biotic, to help modulate the microbiome and slow down cognitive decline and improve brain health. These supplements and good food we eat reduces inflammation in the brain, alters neuro- transmitter signaling and increases levels of microbial metabolites. There are countless wellness stores, popular in social media, selling trendy “super pills or food or drink,’ claiming amazing results for brain power, are mostly without scientific basis or backing, and could be dangerous. A balanced, healthy gut microbiome leads to a healthier body, more effective immunity to illnesses, and maximizes potential longevity. Before embarking on any new diet strategy, it is safer to discuss this with your physicians.
Lithium and memory
Could an old mood stabilizer and a gold-standard long-term treatment for bipolar disorder that increases the risk for suicide, helps in the management of Alzheimer’s Disease?
“Low-dose oral lithium could slow memory decline in older patients with mild cognitive impairment, according to a University of Pittsburgh study published March 2, 2026, in JAMA Neurology, noting that the
“The neuroprotective effect was especially apparent in those who tested positive for amyloid-beta, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s.” Although lithium shows potential to slow down the clock, there is no evidence that it is a cure for restoring memory. Lifestyle changes appear to promote more robust benefits for brain, cardiovascular, and metabolic health. New study shows the Flu vaccine, and in some cases, also the COVID-19 vaccine may also lower the risk for Alzheimer’s Disease.
Alcohol and cancer
and risk for colorectal cancer:
“Factors such as a diet high in processed meat and low in fiber, obesity, Physical inactivity has been linked to colorectal cancer risk.
A recent study found that consistently drinking large amounts of alcohol and larger averages for lifetime alcohol consumption might also increase the risk for colorectal cancer.
The results suggest another possible danger related to the heavy use of alcohol throughout one’s life.”
As we have alluded to in a previous column, the most recent studies showed that there is no safe level of alcoholic intake. Previously, the rule was not to exceed one drink for women and two for men. Today, one drink is considered one too many. Let’s face it, alcohol (ethanol/ethyl alcohol) is a chemical. However, the reality is, while people today are more health-conscious and are staying away from alcoholic beverages, indulgence with one or two drinks at occasional parties or celebrations is understandable and will not pose a high risk because this is not excessive/or daily drinking. Soft drinks and dementia I have written about the danger of consuming soft drinks, which I termed the “poisonous liquid candy.” It increases the risk for metabolic disease, especially among children. Cola or uncola, diet or regular, they are all unhealthy drinks. Worse, it is now evident that frequent consumption of diet soda is “tied to an increased risk for dementia, ” and certain physical conditions may mediate the association. New findings from the Northern Manhattan Study (NOMAS) showed a fourfold increased dementia risk among dementia-free individuals who consumed more than one diet soda per day. – MedPage News
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
by JOHN PATRICK MAGNO RANARA Philstarlife.com
THE Anti-Money Laundering Council disclosed that bank accounts linked to Sara Duterte and her husband, Manases Carpio, had been flagged for billions of pesos worth of transactions over nearly two decades.
During a hearing of the House of Representatives on the impeachment complaints filed against Duterte, AMLC Executive Director Ronel Buenaventura confirmed that banks have submitted covered and suspicious transaction reports involving the couple.
Around 313 covered transactions and 17 suspicious transactions were identified in Duterte’s accounts, while 317 covered transactions and 16 suspicious transactions were recorded in those of her husband. These spanned 2006 to 2025 and had a total value of P6.77 billion.
The disclosure has prompted renewed public interest in how the AMLC operates— particularly its role in monitoring financial transactions and flagging potential irregularities. Read on to know more about its functions:
What is the AMLC?
members.
It's tasked with safeguarding the country’s financial system against becoming a money laundering site for the proceeds of any unlawful activity.
Among its most important functions is requiring or receiving covered or suspicious transaction reports from covered institutions such as banks, insurance companies, and the like.
What it can and can't freeze
Covered transactions are those that exceed P500,000 and are made in a single banking day. As required by law, banks report these to the AMLC to prevent potential illegal activity.
On the other hand, suspicious transactions are those that raise red flags regardless of the amount involved.
These include circumstances wherein there is no clear legal or economic purpose for the transaction, where the client is not properly identified, or where the amount involved is inconsistent with the client’s known financial capacity or business activity.
the authority to file a freeze order petition before the Court of Appeals against the account. The order will be effective immediately and will last for a period of 20 days unless extended by the court.
The depositor will be notified that their account has been frozen at the same time that the freeze order is implemented, and they can subsequently file a motion to lift the freeze order.
However, the power to freeze is not without limitations. Under the law, any freeze or asset preservation order is restricted only to the portion of funds that the court determines may be linked to unlawful activity.
Penalties for money laundering
The hidden dangers of these gut-friendly fermented items include the high amount of sodium (salt), which is unhealthy to those with high blood pressure, cardiovascular, and kidney problems. The high sugar content of some fermented items, as in smoothies, is bad for those watching their weight, pre-diabetics, and diabetics. The lack of fiber also leads to high blood sugar spikes Personally, I love the Chobani Greek yogurt, with Mango-Passion or Strawberry, Banana, which is, of course, with added sugar. Better, especially for diabetics, is plain US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush,
Here is a report in the journal Cancer about the link between Alcohol Consumption
Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor,
The AMLC is the Philippines’ financial intelligence unit, created under Republic Act 10167 or the "Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001." The council is composed of the governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas as chairman, and the commissioner of the Insurance Commission and the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission as
Transactions may also be flagged if they appear structured to avoid reporting thresholds, deviate from a client’s usual financial behavior, or show indicators that they may be linked to unlawful activity or other similar suspicious patterns.
Should the council find transactions that appear irregular, they will analyze and investigate these reports to determine whether there are reasonable grounds to suspect money laundering or other unlawful activity.
If warranted, the AMLC has
Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, distinguished educators, renowned scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SP-
Should a person be found guilty of transacting or attempting to transact any monetary instrument unlawfully, they will be penalized with imprisonment for seven to 14 years and a fine of not less than P3 million but not more than twice the value of the monetary instrument. If the person knowingly helps, facilitates, or participates in money laundering, the penalty is four to seven years of imprisonment and a fine of not less than P1.5 million but not more than P3 million.
Those who failed to disclose and file with the AMLC any questionable transaction as required by law will also be punished, with imprisonment of not less than six months but not more than four years, or a fine of not less than P100,000 but not more than P500,000, or both, depending on the discretion of the court.. n
(People, Events,Places)
Through the initiative of First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, six permanent showroom sites now rise along Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City, establishing a yearround marketing and business platform for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from all 17 regions.
The exhibition complex serves as a sustained global platform for Philippine-made products, supporting trade and investment while preserving the country’s artistic heritage. Each space tells the story of Filipino craftsmanship—the hands that weave, carve, and design—offering an immersive journey from traditional textiles and contemporary Filipiniana to modern home décor and furniture.
By linking heritage with modern design and connecting local producers to broader markets, “Likhang Filipino” positions the Philippines as a competitive hub for creative industries.
“Likhang Filipino” Showrooms
Set on a 21,000-square-meter property, the site reinforces Filipino creativity as both cultural expression and economic driver. Its concept recalls the legacy of NACIDA (National Cottage Industries Development Authority), which supported cottage industries in the 1960s.
Inspired by Thailand’s Kalm Village in Chiang Mai, the development showcases regional products through curated, experience-driven displays aimed at international buyers, tourists, and industry professionals.
The complex features six permanent galleries: Gallery 1 for design exhibitions and special installations; Gallery 2 for traditional crafts such as textiles and basketry; Gallery 3 for fashion and accessories; Galleries 4 and 5 for home furnishings, including furniture, lighting, décor, and gifts; and Gallery 6 for food and agricultural products.
Beyond display, the showrooms function as commercial platforms for market testing, product development, and business-to-business transactions with domestic and international partners.
At its core, “Likhang Filipino” represents CITEM’s renewed strategy under Executive Order No. 75—providing MSMEs with sustained, high-impact access to global markets and strengthening the visibility of Philippine design.
The Incubation Facilities
The complex extends beyond exhibition. It also operates as an incubation hub—supporting early-stage entrepreneurs through structured programs, mentorship, and shared resources.
These spaces encourage cultural expression while equipping MSMEs with practical tools: management training, workspace, funding access, and industry networks. The goal is not only to showcase products, but to build enterprises capable of long-term growth.
Live demonstrations further enrich the experience, allowing visitors to engage directly with artisans practicing weaving, embroidery, pottery, and woodcarving.
The venue also accommodates events, from workshops and product launches to film shoots and private functions, with dedicated meeting areas across the halls.
One-Stop Business Support Center
A central feature is the OneStop Business Support Center, designed to simplify access to essential services. Government agencies and private partners provide assistance in export documentation, product certification, business registration, and financing.
Regular business matching sessions, pitch events, and trade briefings ensure that MSMEs remain connected to market opportunities and industry networks.
Championing the Filipino Spirit
Through “Likhang Filipino,” CITEM reinforces its role in trade promotion while
advancing an inclusive model of growth—linking regional artisans to global markets and nurturing the next generation of creative entrepreneurs.
More than commercial spaces, these showrooms stand as markers of identity. They connect past and present, preserving tradition while enabling innovation.
In supporting “Likhang Filipino,” the country does more than market products. It presents a narrative—one defined by craftsmanship, resilience, and continuity.
Two More TV/Radio Guestings
On April 17, I returned to Coffee, Tea on MHE at the Media House Express studio, airing from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Host Guia Cruz Buenaventura marked the 33rd wedding anniversary of President Bongbong Marcos and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos during the program.
On April 20, I appeared as the sole guest on DWIZ’s Pilipinas Ngayon Na! from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., hosted by former Press Undersecretary Robert Torres Rivera and Nerlisa Elyza Francisco Torres, both recipients of the 4th Philippines Finest Business Awards.
I Like the Film “Lanaya”
“Lanaya” opens with the murder of an alleged drug user in a rural town, setting the tone for a layered narrative. Police detective Jerry, portrayed by Jun Nayra, draws Kaloy—a financially struggling nursing student played by Shaun Salvador—into an investigation.
Kaloy is placed as a caregiver in the home of Aurora, an enigmatic widow of a former president, portrayed by Madeleine Nicolas. Tasked with surveillance, he becomes entangled in a complex psychological dynamic as suspicion deepens.
Directed by Canada-based filmmaker Clyde Capistrano, originally from San Pablo City,
Laguna, the film marks his full-length debut. It explores power, moral ambiguity, and unresolved grief.
“Lanaya” received international recognition, including Best International Feature Film and Best Music Score at the 2025 Saskatchewan International Film Festival. It was also featured in the 8th Sinag Maynila Independent Film Festival in March 2026.
Developed through a mentor-mentee collaboration with filmmaker Napoleon Jamir II, the cast includes Rolando Inocencio, Gigi Hernandez, Marlon Mance, Aljun Fajardo, Rhett Romero, Allan Yu, and Clyde Crosz.
The film’s strength lies in its resolution—measured, clear, and emotionally grounded.
Birthday Greetings
Happy birthday to Kristine Nunez; Sunita Suni M. Mukhi; Gilbert F. Bautista; Lyn Tamayo; Luigi Muhlach (April 21); Ning Ning Orlina (April 22); Bembem Espinosa Diaz (April 23); Michael Isip; Dr. Mich A. Ong (April 24); Dr. Esmeralda Medina (April 25); Joey Galicia Venancio; Alexander Escoto (April 26); Paz Calzado Bendicio vda. de Medina (April 27); Margarita “Tingting” Cojuangco (April 29); Cherry Ann Orona (April 30).
* * *
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * * rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com n
