Top News

AMLC moves to forfeit ghost flood control assets

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has filed civil forfeiture petitions at the Manila Regional Trial Court targeting properties of individuals and corporations implicated in ghost flood control projects, while securing asset preservation orders to protect frozen assets. “Following the extensive investigation and finding of probable cause, the AMLC filed three petitions for civil forfeiture before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) …

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Gov’t must empower, not constrain

Even with the passage of Republic Act No. 12316, the promise of meaningful relief at the pump remains elusive. The law grants the President authority to suspend or reduce excise taxes on fuel, yet global price dynamics and entrenched market structures blunt its intended impact. Consumers are left wondering: if policy tools exist, why does relief feel so distant? Government messaging …

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Undue Process of Law

Since the Supreme Court ruled last year on the parameters defining the impeachment process against VP Sara, the phrase Due Process of Law was front and center in our daily conversation. It was demanded by our Supreme Court to be observed by the House of Representatives (HOR), such that when the time was rife and ripe, it was recently complied …

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The Politics of Shallow Happiness  

REALPOLITIKBy Benjie Alejandro One of the most striking features of Philippine society is the resilience and cheerfulness of its people. The latest World Happiness Report 2026 places the Philippines fourth among Southeast Asian nations in terms of happiness. At first glance, this seems like a cause for celebration. But in the realm of realpolitik, this cultural trait is not merely …

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Private sector strategic thinking needed now

The emerging debate—initiated by the camp of Vice President Sara Duterte—over why the House Committee on Justice is prioritizing impeachment proceedings instead of confronting the fuel price crisis, does little to ease the daily burden of ordinary Filipinos.  For millions already stretched thin, this discourse feels detached from reality. Financial assistance programs, while loudly promoted, fail to reach a significant portion of the population, particularly the middle …

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Faster Roads, Stronger Farms: PBBM

LOVE FOR ALL​By: Virginia Rodriguez President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has sharpened his directive to accelerate the construction of farm-to-market roads, recognizing infrastructure as a lifeline for struggling Filipino farmers. During a recent inspection in Barangay New Casay, Davao del Norte, the President underscored the urgency of completing critical road networks. Joining him was Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., highlighting …

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Food supply steady until July — DA

The Philippines will have ample food supply at least until July, the Department of Agriculture (DA) assured last week, easing concerns over possible price spikes amid tensions in the Middle East. “Definitely, walang issue sa supply. I can safely say hanggang June or even July, walang issue sa supply of almost everything (there’s no issue in supply. I can safely …

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Phl eyes to seal trade deal with EU by 2nd half of 2026

The Philippines is pushing to seal a landmark free trade agreement with the European Union by the latter half of 2026, as negotiations gain fresh momentum. Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said both sides are working toward wrapping up talks “probably the start of the second half of this year,” signaling a faster pace in discussions. “We are looking …

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PNP ready against possible crime spike

The Philippine National Police on Friday assured the public it is fully prepared to keep peace and order amid concerns that rising fuel prices could trigger more theft and robbery. PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the current economic climate is unlikely to spark a surge in crime, but emphasized that the police force is ready for any scenario. …

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Target aid for middle class

Amid the ripple effects of rising global oil prices, Bam Aquino on Friday called for targeted government assistance to help middle-income Filipinos who are often left out of traditional aid programs. Aquino warned that those above the poverty line—such as minimum wage earners and small business owners—remain highly vulnerable to price shocks despite not qualifying for government support. “Iyong mga …

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