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Articles by Joseph Tan
House prosecutor presses Sara on Davao, Samal properties
Property registration integrity, municipal tax roll reconciliation, and institutional land record verification have taken center stage in the Senate impeachment trial as prosecution leaders demand full official accounting of high-value real estate holdings linked to public officials. HOUSE impeachment prosecutor and Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon has challenged Vice President Sara Z.
CFO, Pag-IBIG eye retirement housing for returning OFWs
State-backed socialized financing mechanisms, land acquisition protocols, and long-term reintegration infrastructure are undergoing structural review as government authorities move to institutionalize specialized housing programs for returning overseas workers. The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) and Pag-IBIG Fund are exploring a continuing care retirement initiative that would provide returning overseas Filipinos with housing, specialized health care and long-term financial security.
ARTA: One valid ID enough for government transactions
Public administration standards, compliance enforcement, and institutional service delivery benchmarks have come under strict regulatory review as oversight authorities move to eliminate redundant identity verification requirements and enforce public service mandates.
Kapunan: Duterte defense has no more excuses after evidence ruling
PRIVATE prosecutor Atty. Lorna Kapunan said the Senate Impeachment Court’s ruling affirming the admissibility of key evidence presented by the House prosecution panel leaves the defense team of Vice President Sara Duterte with no reason to avoid addressing the evidence when the trial resumes on Monday, November 9.
Lacson warns vs. questionable insertions in ₱7.2T budget
Public funding allocation mechanisms are facing intense institutional scrutiny as lawmakers and civil society watchdogs move to dismantle billions in unvalidated expenditure proposals before final budget enactment. Sen. Panfilo Lacson on Wednesday said that public anger combined with sustained vigilance could be the key to counter the greed and callousness of lawmakers behind questionable insertions in the proposed P7.2-trillion national budget for 2027.
MMDA, LGUs finalize traffic plans for ASEAN Summit
Municipal planning authorities are locking in strict completion schedules for capital region roadworks to avert severe transit bottlenecks during upcoming international delegation movements.
BJMP: CCTV shows no irregularities in Romualdez custody
Surveillance footage reviews showed no power cuts or unauthorized movement at the Quezon City Jail following allegations that special privileges were granted to a high-profile detainee facing major corruption charges. The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) launched an investigation into claims that former House Speaker Martin Romualdez was allowed to leave his cell at the Quezon City Jail.
BINI brings P-pop to ASEAN stage with ‘Sama-Sama Tayo’
The P-pop group’s new anthem celebrates Philippine destinations, regional unity, and the growing influence of Filipino artists beyond entertainment P-pop sensation BINI is taking Filipino music beyond the concert stage with “Sama-Sama Tayo,” a new song celebrating Philippine culture, tourism, and the country’s ASEAN chairship in 2026.
Palace: Marcos seeks secure, affordable internet for Filipinos
State leaders and private sector partners are aligning strategy to fortify the nation’s digital ecosystem against systemic cyber threats while expanding high-speed connectivity to isolated rural communities. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Digital Infrastructure Sector Group in Malacañang on Tuesday to evaluate recommendations aimed at expanding internet access, strengthening cybersecurity defenses, and expanding the domestic digital economy.
Palace: PNP must enforce ICC warrant vs. Dela Rosa
Executive leadership has placed law enforcement command structures on direct notice, framing the serving of an international warrant against a high-ranking politician as a vital test of institutional integrity.
Gatchalian flags 295 DPWH projects over missing documents
Strict financial scrutiny in Congress is halting billions in public works spending as lawmakers enforce zero-tolerance standards against unverified infrastructure line items. Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian announced on Tuesday that the Senate will axe 295 infrastructure projects worth P8.836 billion from the proposed 2027 national budget due to missing documentation from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
DOE eyes special floating solar auction amid El Niño
State energy planners are positioning floating solar technology as a dual-purpose strategy to generate clean power while conserving critical water levels in key dams across the country. The Department of Energy (DOE) announced it is considering a special Green Energy Auction specifically for floating solar projects to mitigate the severe effects of El Niño.
AdSpark brings AI campaign testing to brands
Digital agencies are overhauling campaign risk management by adopting predictive simulation tools to evaluate consumer response before committing marketing funds. AdSpark, a digital advertising and marketing technology agency under Brave Connective and Globe-backed 917Ventures, partnered with Netopia AI to integrate an artificial intelligence-powered behavioral simulation platform into its marketing and advertising technology capabilities.
NCDA urges safer, inclusive transport for PWD passengers
Institutional safeguards across public transit systems face heightened scrutiny after a Deaf woman was subjected to sexual harassment onboard a commercial bus in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, prompting calls for strict legal enforcement and structural transport reforms. The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) issued a formal demand to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to pursue full criminal accountability against the bus conductor involved in the November 1, 2026 incident.
GMA asks NTC to delay Nov. 22 analog TV cutoff
Delays in government-led assistance programs for vulnerable households have prompted major broadcast network GMA to challenge the upcoming analog television switch-off schedule. GMA Network Inc. has formally petitioned the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to postpone the mandatory November 22 analog shutdown deadline, pointing to unresolved implementation guidelines for subsidizing consumer transitions.
Gov’t eyes ₱17.8B for child feeding programs
Escalating hunger rates across Filipino households have focused legislative attention on state nutrition interventions, prompting a proposed P17.8 billion funding package for child feeding programs in the 2027 national budget. House Minority Leader and 4Ps party-list Rep. Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan highlighted the proposed expenditure as the country marks the start of National Children’s Month. The proposed allocation comes as independent surveys document rising food insecurity nationwide.
Manila North logs record 1.4 million visitors on Nov. 1
A weekend schedule for All Saints’ Day propelled foot traffic beyond historic averages at the country’s largest burial ground, pushing single-day turnout near the 1.4 million mark. The Manila Police District (MPD) reported Monday that nearly 1.4 million visitors entered Manila North Cemetery between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. on Nov. 1. MPD spokesperson Maj. Philipp Ines attributed the significant turnout to November 1 falling on a Sunday, which allowed larger family groups to travel together.
Bantag remains at large as PNP vows relentless pursuit
A failed intelligence-led raid on an agricultural facility in Northern Luzon has refocused law enforcement priorities on high-profile fugitives as police leadership vowed to press forward with the nationwide manhunt for former Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) chief Gerald Bantag.
NCRPO reports peaceful Undas across Metro Manila
Police deployments are shifting focus toward managing returning commuter surges across Metro Manila transit hubs following an orderly and peaceful observance of All Saints’ Day on November 1, 2026. The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) confirmed that heightened security protocols and public assistance operations successfully maintained order as thousands of families visited cemeteries, columbaria, and memorial parks across the capital.
House prosecution seeks Duterte’s answers on disputed properties
Discrepancies identified by state investigators between declared land holdings and actual luxury developments will take center stage when House prosecutors cross-examine defense witnesses in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte. House prosecutor and Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry L.
House prosecution cites Duterte’s SALNs in wealth case
Official government records and self-certified financial disclosures will form the foundation of the case that defense attorneys must counter when the Senate impeachment trial resumes on November 9. House impeachment prosecution spokesperson and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong affirmed that the evidence backing Article II against Vice President Sara Z. Duterte relies directly on documents she certified under oath, along with official filings from government agencies and banking institutions.
PH businesses remain pessimistic as costs rise, BSP says
Mid-term growth projections across key industrial and service sectors remain positive as Filipino enterprises prepare for a medium-term turnaround despite immediate margin pressures caused by energy price hikes and currency fluctuations.
INTRAMUMU brings Halloween festivities to historic Walled City
From zombie chases to eerie storytelling and costume parties, Intramuros is giving Halloween a distinctly Manila twist this weekend Intramuros has witnessed centuries of Philippine history. This Halloween, its centuries-old walls are making room for a different kind of spectacle — one filled with costumes, music, ghost stories and a race against the undead.
Manila South Cemetery braces for up to 1 million Undas visitors
Cemetery management expects visitor footfall to range between 600,000 and one million from October 31 to November 1 as families flock to the grounds to honor their departed relatives. Early arrivals were already logged despite rain showers, with 8,408 visitors recorded on Friday ahead of the weekend peak. Among the early visitors was Arlyn Gonzales, who visited the resting place of her grandparents alongside her mother before departing for her overseas job.
PH dining scene gains global spotlight with 127 Michelin-listed restaurants
From intimate fine-dining restaurants to familiar Filipino comfort food, the country’s culinary scene is gaining a bigger place on the international dining map. The Michelin Guide has expanded its Philippine restaurant selection to 127 establishments, bringing more local dining destinations into the spotlight and offering food enthusiasts fresh places to explore. Unveiled on October 29, 2026, the Michelin Guide Philippines 2027 features restaurants in Metro Manila, nearby areas, and Cebu.
James Reid and Kathryn Bernardo turn unspoken feelings into ‘Aaminin’
There comes a point in some friendships when an innocent conversation starts feeling like a date, a simple glance means a little too much, and the words “just friends” become increasingly difficult to believe. James Reid and Kathryn Bernardo know that emotional dilemma all too well—at least through the characters they play.
Diokno seeks measures to shield families from rising prices
A lawmaker from the legislative minority is pressing executive authorities to roll out urgent fiscal and economic interventions to protect low-income households from the escalating cost of goods fueled by the local currency’s slide. Akbayan Party-List Rep. Chel Diokno urged the administration to move past routine public assurances and lay down actionable strategies to curb the peso’s drop while directly shielding struggling families.
DSWD says solo parent law does not exclude LGBTQIA+ community
Members of the LGBTQIA+ community are not barred by Philippine law from being recognized as solo parents, according to a senior official of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Speaking at the DSWD Media Forum on Thursday, Undersecretary and Chairperson of the Special Committee on LGBTQIA+ Atty. Elen De Vibar Pasion highlighted the governing legislation covering solo parent benefits and social protection.
Philippines pushes stronger ASEAN cooperation on security, maritime law
Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr., serving as Chair of the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus), called on ASEAN Member States and Plus Partners to strengthen regional cooperation in upholding international law, addressing security challenges, and protecting vulnerable populations during his opening remarks in Cebu on Thursday.
Quimbo pushes clear Wawa Dam rules to prevent floods, water shortages
Marikina City Second District Representative Miro Quimbo is pushing for clear protocols governing the operation of Upper Wawa Dam to protect flood-prone communities while ensuring a sufficient water supply amid the expected impact of a strong El Niño. Quimbo reiterated the need for clear operational guidelines following an inter-agency consultation on October 28, which discussed proposed rules for dam management.
MMDA suspends number coding for Undas on Nov 2
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will suspend the number coding scheme across Metro Manila on Monday, November 2, in observance of All Souls’ Day, allowing motorists to travel without the usual number coding restrictions. November 2 has been declared a special non-working holiday. “Awtomatikong sinususpinde ang number coding tuwing regular at special non-working holidays,” the MMDA said.
US, Japan top Filipinos’ preferred economic partners, survey shows
The United States and Japan topped the Filipinos’ choice for economic partners with a majority saying that they are the Philippines’ most important partner for economic security amid global risks, according to a September 17 to 23 surveys by Pulse Asia released on Thursday. The survey was commissioned by the Stratbase Group and involved 2,400 adult respondents nationwide, carrying a margin of error of ±2 percent.
PH, Japan eye early transfer of destroyer, TC-90 aircraft to strengthen maritime security
Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. and Minister of Defense of Japan Koizumi Shinjiro held a Defense Ministerial Meeting in the Philippines on October 28, 2026. The two Ministers, in light of the increasingly severe and complex security environment in the Indo-Pacific region, reiterated their strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion in the East China Sea and the South China Sea.
Kiko pushes prepositioning of aid for vulnerable communities ahead of El Niño
Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan urged government agencies to preposition relief supplies and implement early interventions to protect vulnerable communities from the anticipated impacts of a strong El Niño, stressing the need to act before conditions worsen.
PCG auxiliary member linked to alleged ₱5.34-B shabu shipment
A member of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary has been tagged as the direct contact of the alleged mastermind in the foiled shipment of some P5.34 billion worth of shabu in looking for a chartered flight from Laos to the Philippines. During the Senate Committee on Public Services hearing on Wednesday, Police Col. Joselito Esico, the deputy director for operations of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, said that based on their investigation, one Col.
Police warns five year jail over campus bomb scare
The chief of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Wednesday told people contemplating making bomb jokes to think twice, warning they can be held legally liable for such actions. NCRPO officer-in-charge Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano made the statement following recent bomb threats against the University of Santo Tomas and De La Salle University that resulted in the cancellation of classes and the deployment of emergency responders.
DOE studies measures to cushion impact of peso depreciation on energy costs
The Department of Energy (DOE) is studying additional measures to mitigate and delay the impact of the peso’s depreciation against the US dollar on the country’s energy costs. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin acknowledged that a weaker peso would increase the cost of importing coal, diesel, and liquefied natural gas (LNG), potentially putting additional pressure on electricity and fuel prices.
Why Filipino offices make new hires dance at Christmas parties
It’s supposed to be a fun welcome to the team. But behind the annual performances is a familiar Filipino workplace dilemma: How do you say no without looking like you’re not a team player? You’ve survived the interviews, signed your contract, and finally learned everyone’s names at work. Then someone from HR delivers the news: All new hires must prepare a performance for the Christmas party. Suddenly, your biggest concern isn’t meeting deadlines.
Kiko calls for early funding, preparedness measures ahead of potential Super El Niño
Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan called on key government agencies to identify and assess available funds for disaster preparedness and risk reduction ahead of the looming threat of a potentially severe El Niño phenomenon.
AFP ready to assist PNP in locating, arresting Sen. Bato Dela Rosa
The Armed Forces on Tuesday said it will assist in the ongoing efforts to locate and arrest Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, if requested by relevant agencies. In a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo, AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said the matter of arresting Dela Rosa is a law enforcement concern. “The Philippine National Police is the frontline on this issue,” Padilla said, referring to the efforts against Dela Rosa, a former PNP chief.
Duterte’s SALNs, unexplained wealth among four issues flagged by House prosecution
The House prosecution team has identified four major issues involving Vice President Sara Z. Duterte’s financial records that must be explained as her impeachment trial resumes on November 9.
Privacy, scam concerns prompt scrutiny of BIR registration seal for digital earners
The National Privacy Commission (NPC) has asked the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to explain its requirement for online sellers, vloggers, and other digital earners to display a BIR registration seal on their online platforms, following privacy concerns raised by stakeholders. In a statement, the NPC said it issued a Notice to Explain to the BIR on October 21, 2026, in response to the concerns surrounding the registration seal requirement.
Marcos convenes economic managers, BSP over interest rate hike
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is convening on Tuesday his economic team and the executives of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to discuss monetary policy and its implications for Filipino households and businesses. Topping the agenda of the meeting with the BSP is the Monetary Board’s policy considerations behind its decision last week to raise interest rates to 5.50 percent, including understanding the policy decision and its implications for borrowing costs, households, and businesses.
AFP monitors Chinese aircraft carrier group transiting Mindanao waters toward Celebes Sea
The Armed Forces announced on Monday that it recently monitored a Chinese aircraft carrier group passing through the territorial waters of Mindanao. The AFP’s Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said it monitored the Liaoning Carrier Group on October 22, through its Maritime Situational Awareness Center.
AI detects pancreatic cancer warning signs up to 3 years early, study finds
What if a medical scan could reveal warning signs of cancer long before a tumor becomes visible? Researchers in the United States have developed an artificial intelligence system capable of identifying subtle changes associated with pancreatic cancer in CT scans taken months or even years before patients received their diagnosis. The technology, called REDMOD, was developed by researchers from Mayo Clinic and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
PNP urges Dela Rosa to surrender peacefully as lawmakers offer to broker talks
The PNP has formed new tracker teams to track down and arrest Dela Rosa, PNP spokesman Col. Allen Rae Co told a press briefing at Camp Crame on Monday afternoon. “Acting on the orders from no less than the President himself to intensify the manhunt for Sen. Dela Rosa, Sen. Bato, we formed new dedicated tracker teams for the purpose,” Co said. Co said the “full force” of the PNP is now “in play to bring the senator within the folds of the law.” He said the one-week ultimatum given by PNP chief Gen.
Philippines, US to discuss defense cooperation and regional security at ASEAN meetings
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Monday said he is due to have bilateral meetings with his US counterpart, Pete Hegseth, and other partner countries on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus, which will be held in Cebu on Wednesday and Thursday.
Ridon questions PNP’s arrest of journalist Lustre but not Sara Duterte over bailable offenses
WHY arrest journalist Philip Lustre Jr., but not Vice President Sara Duterte? This is the question of House prosecutor and Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon to the Philippine National Police (PNP). In a press briefing, Ridon accused the PNP of applying a double standard in enforcing arrest warrants, questioning why the veteran journalist was arrested over a cyberlibel case while Duterte was not taken into custody over a grave threats case.
Marcos reshuffles cabinet: Dizon to DOTr, Lopez to DPWH to speed up reforms
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is accelerating key government reforms to deliver tangible,visible improvements to the daily lives of Filipinos, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Lino Cayetano announced Monday. Quoting the President, Cayetano emphasized the administration’s renewed focus, “we are shifting gears to accelerate reform. Secretary Dizon goes to DOTr to fix the daily commute. Secretary Lopez goes to DPWH to make sure the reforms there last.
Lawmakers call for suspension of BIR Digital Badge mandate over personal data risks
Senators Bam Aquino and Pia Cayetano have called on the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to halt the mandatory implementation of its digital Registration Seal Badge, expressing serious concerns that the embedded QR code exposes sensitive personal information of online sellers and content creators ahead of the October 31,2026 deadline.
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