MANILA, Philippines - The Bicameral Conference Committee (bicam) this week finalized and submitted its version of the proposed national budget for 2025, just in time for submission to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The President is expected to review and sign the budget into law before Christmas, ensuring that the government operates under an updated fiscal plan. Should the budget fail to be enacted before the year ends, the government would resort to a reenacted budget, which would leave new programs and projects unfunded until a new law is signed.
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| Lawmakers from both the Senate and the House of Representatives strike a pose for photographs after the bicameral conference committee concludes its meeting. - House of Senate / RG Cruz, ABS-CBN |
While the bicam’s timely submission demonstrates procedural efficiency, its budgetary adjustments have drawn widespread criticism, particularly concerning the removal of subsidies for the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and substantial funding cuts for the Department of Education (DepEd).
Controversy Over PhilHealth’s Zero Subsidy
The bicam’s decision to remove subsidies for PhilHealth has sparked debate among lawmakers and stakeholders. Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero and Senator Grace Poe of the Senate Finance Committee defended the zero subsidy as a response to PhilHealth’s inability to fully utilize previously allocated funds.
“Hindi para sa amin na i-reward ang kapalpakan nila sa pagbibigay na naman ng perang itetengga,” Escudero remarked, emphasizing that rewarding inefficiency would be counterproductive. (It is not for us to reward their failure by giving them more money that will not be used.)
Poe echoed similar sentiments, stating: “Ang dami ngang pera nandiyan, hindi nila pinamimigay ‘yung pera sa mga kinakailangan. Tintuturuan natin sila ng leksyon.” (They have a lot of money, but they are not giving it out to those who need it. We are teaching them a lesson.)
On the other hand, Senator Risa Hontiveros argued that removing the subsidy could compromise Filipinos' right to health care, particularly for those whose premium contributions are covered by the government. Senator Pia Cayetano also expressed concern, stating that the subsidy cut contradicts laws mandating the allocation of taxes from “sin” products like tobacco and sugary beverages to fund universal health care.
Economist Cielo Magno, a former finance undersecretary, proposed an alternative approach. “The proper punishment for PhilHealth’s alleged failures is to fire its executives, not withhold funding that could be used to expand coverage and member benefits,” she said.
PhilHealth, for its part, assured the public that it has sufficient funds for 2025 but warned that the lack of subsidies would significantly affect its operations from 2026 onwards. The agency, which has faced backlash for planning to spend P137.7 million on anniversary celebrations, has expressed hope to appeal the decision to remove its subsidy.
DepEd Budget Cuts Jeopardize Education Goals
The Department of Education faced a P12 billion budget cut, heavily impacting its computerization program. Critics, including former Senator Panfilo Lacson, warned that the cuts might violate the constitutional mandate to prioritize education funding.
Senator Sonny Angara, a former chair of the Senate finance committee, highlighted the potential consequences of the reduced budget. “Medyo mahihirapan sila kung wala silang computer,” he noted, emphasizing the disadvantage learners and teachers will face without access to digital tools. (They will struggle if they don’t have computers.)
1-Rider Party-list Representative Rodge Gutierrez defended the decision, citing the department’s history of delayed and irregular procurement processes. “Congress cannot keep throwing good money after bad,” he said, urging DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte to address the department’s internal issues.
However, ACT Teachers Party-list Representative France Castro strongly criticized the cuts, calling them “a clear manifestation of the government’s anti-education and anti-poor policies.” She argued that slashing P10 billion from the computerization program is a significant setback for students striving to keep up in the digital age.
“Ang P10 billion na cinut sa computerization program ay malaking dagok sa ating mga mag-aaral na desperadong makahabol sa digital age,” Castro said. (The P10 billion cut from the computerization program is a heavy blow to our students who are desperately trying to catch up with the digital age.)
Kabataan Party-list Representative Raoul Manuel echoed these concerns, lamenting reductions in funding for education and other critical services. He noted that budgets for the Commission on Higher Education, Department of Agriculture, Department of Labor and Employment, and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) were also slashed, exacerbating resource shortages.
Retention of AKAP Funding Sparks Debate
In contrast, the bicam retained the P26 billion allocation for the DSWD’s “Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program” (AKAP), which provides financial aid to low-income families. This allocation, reduced from an initial P39 billion, has raised concerns about its potential misuse as a patronage tool. Critics point out that AKAP was not part of the original budget proposal by the Department of Budget and Management.
Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian dismissed these comparisons to “pork barrel” funds, stating that social workers have the final say in determining eligibility and amounts of aid. “Call pa rin ng social worker kung bibigyan at kung magkano. Masisira ang pulitiko kapag sinabi niyang sagot ko ito tapos sasabihin ng social worker wala sa listahan ng mga pangangailangan, hindi namin bibigyan,” he explained. (It is still the social workers' call in the end. A politician would be embarrassed if they promise funding but the social worker says the person is not eligible.)
Presidential Power to Veto
Under the Constitution, the President has the authority to veto specific items in the appropriations bill. Critics of the bicam’s budget warn that the current version risks undermining essential public services and call on the President to scrutinize provisions that could adversely affect health care, education, and social welfare.
As the 2025 national budget awaits the President’s signature, it reflects the complexities and competing priorities of governance. The controversies surrounding PhilHealth’s subsidy removal, DepEd’s funding cuts, and the retention of AKAP’s allocation underscore the delicate balancing act required to align fiscal policies with the nation’s needs and aspirations. - majaits.com
Military Silences Trolls Amid Political Tensions
As the rift between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte deepens, the Philippine military is finding itself caught in the crossfire, battling not only political pressure but also a wave of online trolls. The AFP has taken the unusual step of silencing comments on its Facebook page, citing a need to combat disinformation and malinformation.
MANILA, Philippines - As political discord between the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte intensifies, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) finds itself navigating a battlefield of its own—one fought not in the halls of power, but on the volatile terrain of social media.
On November 27, the AFP announced a temporary disabling of interactive features on its official Facebook page to combat a surge of troll activity. Troll farms, notorious for their role in spreading disinformation and malinformation, have become a significant societal menace. “We are temporarily disabling features on our official Facebook page to deny trolls a platform for their suspicious activities,” said Colonel Xerxes Trinidad, AFP Public Affairs chief. “Troll farms are a menace to society, and we choose not to empower inauthentic actors in their coordinated attempt to spread disinformation and malinformation.”
The AFP has largely maintained its neutrality amid the escalating rift between the Marcos administration and Vice President Duterte. However, former president Rodrigo Duterte’s provocative remarks have drawn the military into the fray. Speaking recently, the elder Duterte urged the police and military to “protect the Constitution,” referencing what he described as a “fractured” government. His comments stopped short of calling for a coup but added fuel to the growing political tensions.
Former president Duterte, whose legacy is defined by his contentious anti-drug campaign, contrasted his rhetoric with Vice President Sara Duterte’s recent sharp remarks aimed at President Marcos and his allies, including First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Vice President Duterte’s “conditional threat” has raised eyebrows, reflecting the depth of the fissures within the administration’s top ranks.
AFP Stands Firm Against “Military Adventurism”
Amid these developments, AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. addressed the issue of potential unrest within the military ranks during a leadership summit on November 26. He emphatically ruled out the possibility of military adventurism, a term historically associated with coups and uprisings led by factions of the armed forces.
“‘Yung mga nakaraang military adventurism ay hindi na po pwede ngayon,” Brawner said, alluding to past military interventions that have shaped Philippine history, including the ouster of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., the current president’s father, during the People Power Revolution of 1986. Brawner’s remarks underscored the AFP’s commitment to professionalism and adherence to democratic principles, despite the charged political environment.
The AFP’s decision to disable certain Facebook features highlights the evolving challenges institutions face in combating online disinformation. Troll farms, often state-sponsored or linked to political entities, are coordinated networks that manipulate public opinion through fake accounts, divisive content, and inflammatory posts. These operations have become a persistent threat in the digital age, undermining public trust and distorting political discourse.
The AFP’s move also signals a broader awareness within Philippine institutions about the role of social media in shaping political narratives. By taking proactive steps, the AFP aims to safeguard its credibility and prevent its platform from being weaponized in the ongoing political conflict.
The growing discord between President Marcos and Vice President Duterte, both scions of political dynasties, has cast a shadow over the administration’s stability. Their alliance during the 2022 elections was seen as a strategic pairing of the Marcos family’s influence in the north and the Duterte family’s stronghold in the south. However, cracks have emerged, with disagreements on key policy issues and public spats signaling a deeper divide.
Vice President Duterte’s recent criticisms of Marcos’ inner circle have further strained relations. Her remarks about the First Lady and House Speaker—both perceived as central figures in the president’s decision-making—have fueled speculation about her future political ambitions and the possibility of an open confrontation with the administration.
The military has long played a pivotal role in Philippine politics, from supporting peaceful transitions of power to intervening during moments of political turmoil. However, General Brawner’s firm stance against military adventurism reflects an institutional shift toward maintaining democratic norms.
By distancing itself from the political drama, the AFP aims to reinforce its image as a professional and apolitical institution. Still, the shadow of history looms large. Memories of military-led uprisings, such as those during the Martial Law era and the coups against former presidents, remind the public of the armed forces’ potential influence in times of political instability.
As the Marcos administration and Vice President Duterte continue their political chess match, the AFP’s dual battles—against online trolls and potential unrest—highlight the complexities of governance in an era of digital disinformation and political polarization.
The institution’s efforts to maintain neutrality and professionalism will be closely watched, as will the evolving dynamics between the president, vice president, and former president Duterte. In a nation where alliances are often as fluid as the political landscape, the coming months will be critical in determining the trajectory of the current administration—and the role the military will play in shaping it.
AFP Denounces Calls for Political Intervention and Confronts Digital Manipulation Amid National Challenges
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), under the leadership of General Romeo Brawner Jr., has reiterated its commitment to its constitutional mandate, decisively rejecting calls for military intervention in the country’s political landscape. Speaking during a recent event, General Brawner highlighted the AFP’s unwavering focus on its duties, emphasizing that political entanglement is not within its purview.
“There are calls for the AFP to intervene in political events. But that is not our job,” said Brawner. “Our job is to protect the Republic of the Philippines, protect its people, defend our territory, and defend our sovereignty and our sovereign rights.”
In line with its apolitical stance, the AFP has also taken a proactive approach to countering the growing influence of online disinformation and coordinated troll activities. Days after General Brawner’s statement, the military announced the limitation of public interaction on its official Facebook page, including disabling its comment section. While the AFP refrained from identifying the origin or affiliation of the troll activities, its decision underscores the increasing threat posed by troll farms to public discourse and national security.
The restricted commenting policy remains in effect as of this writing, a clear sign of the AFP’s resolve to mitigate the misuse of its platform. Troll farms—entities often linked to state or political actors—exploit social media platforms to promote divisive narratives and drown out genuine public sentiment.
Vice President Sara Duterte’s camp has long been associated with the strategic deployment of troll armies, an allegation that critics argue reflects a deliberate effort to control online narratives and suppress dissent. Journalist Regine Cabato, writing on LinkedIn, delved into the mechanics of this manipulation.
“Comment sections are one front to spread their narrative and enact astroturfing,” Cabato explained. “They’re meant to scare dissent and paint a tyranny of the majority. The average scroller who is less news or security-savvy might see a post run down by trolls and actually believe that the dominant pulse is to call for military action against Marcos.”
Cabato further emphasized the insidious nature of repetitive disinformation campaigns, which can shift public perception over time. “When this sentiment is repeated constantly throughout various pages and platforms, it can influence public opinion or perception in the long run. The military statement for the first time sets the tone of intolerance toward such inauthentic support and kills one avenue for their reach, at least until the buzz dies down,” she added.
Strategic Focus: External Defense and National Sovereignty
The AFP’s vigilance against online interference aligns with its broader strategy of refocusing on external defense amid rising geopolitical tensions. As the Philippines contends with challenges to its sovereignty, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, the AFP has emphasized its commitment to national security in the face of both internal and external threats.
Government officials have voiced concerns about the potential for foreign influence operations, particularly from actors such as China, to meddle in the Philippines’ internal affairs. Such interference could exploit existing political divisions and influence public opinion to serve foreign interests.
A military that is both hyper-aware of and responsive to domestic and foreign disinformation campaigns is crucial for maintaining national integrity. By addressing these threats, the AFP seeks to ensure that its focus remains on safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity and sovereign rights.
The AFP’s actions reflect an evolving understanding of modern threats, where information warfare plays a central role in destabilizing nations. Limiting trolls’ reach on its platforms is a step toward neutralizing coordinated disinformation campaigns and reinforcing public trust in its apolitical stance.
As the Marcos administration faces mounting challenges, including tensions with Vice President Duterte and the specter of external interference, the AFP’s steadfast commitment to its constitutional role serves as a stabilizing force in a fractious political environment.
The path forward for the Philippines requires robust institutions capable of navigating complex domestic and international challenges. The AFP’s dual efforts to safeguard public discourse and defend national sovereignty highlight its critical role in ensuring the country’s stability and resilience in an era of rapid technological and geopolitical change.
The rift between Vice President Sara Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. continues to widen, marked by a curious blend of verbal aggression, strategic retreats, and backdoor maneuvering. This political drama, unprecedented in its public unraveling, has raised questions about the stability of the alliance between two of the most powerful political figures in the Philippines.
The controversy began with Vice President Duterte's “conditional threat” against President Marcos and key members of his administration, including First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Her sharp words have been interpreted as a bold challenge to the President’s authority and an indicator of deepening discontent within the upper echelons of government.
Duterte’s initial remarks were followed by a series of contradictory actions. At times, she appeared to walk back her statements, attempting to soften her earlier tone, only to later double down on her criticisms of the Marcos administration. This vacillation has left observers puzzled about her ultimate intentions and the nature of her grievances.
Marcos’ Response: The “Leaked” Text Message
President Marcos, on his part, has sought to project a conciliatory stance. In an unusual turn of events, a supposed text message from the President to his allies in Congress was “leaked” to the media. In the message, Marcos reportedly urged legislators to abandon plans to file an impeachment complaint against Vice President Duterte, aiming to prevent further escalation of the political feud.
The notion of a “leaked” communication from Malacañang, an institution known for its tight control over information, has sparked skepticism. While some interpret the leak as a deliberate move to signal Marcos’ willingness to de-escalate tensions, others see it as a calculated attempt to project a narrative of magnanimity amid the brewing crisis.
The public fallout between Marcos and Duterte underscores the fragility of their alliance, which was pivotal in securing victory during the 2022 elections. The union of the Marcos family’s northern stronghold and the Dutertes’ southern bastion was hailed as a political masterstroke, but cracks have since emerged.
Vice President Duterte’s dissatisfaction reportedly stems from perceptions of marginalization within the administration and frustrations over key policy decisions. Her increasingly public criticisms have amplified these tensions, complicating efforts to present a united front.
The ongoing conflict between the President and Vice President has far-reaching implications for governance and political stability. While both leaders remain influential within their respective spheres, their public spat risks eroding confidence in the administration and diverting attention from pressing national issues.
Observers warn that the infighting could embolden opposition forces and create openings for political adversaries. Moreover, it may deepen divisions within the administration’s broader coalition, potentially impacting legislative priorities and policy implementation.
The public nature of this political drama has sparked speculation about the motives behind each player’s actions. Some analysts suggest that Duterte’s aggressive stance may be part of a calculated effort to position herself as a more independent and formidable political force ahead of the 2028 elections.
On the other hand, Marcos’ measured response, including the alleged leak, may reflect an effort to project statesmanship and avoid alienating key allies. His approach signals a preference for backchannel negotiations over direct confrontation, even as tensions remain high.
As the political chess game unfolds, the stakes for both Marcos and Duterte continue to rise. For the President, maintaining control and presenting a cohesive administration is critical to his ability to govern effectively. For the Vice President, navigating this high-stakes conflict without overstepping constitutional boundaries will be key to preserving her political capital.
While efforts to de-escalate tensions are ongoing, the underlying issues driving the conflict remain unresolved. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the rift can be bridged or if it will lead to a further breakdown in the alliance that has shaped Philippine politics in recent years.
This episode serves as a stark reminder of the challenges inherent in coalition politics and the delicate balancing act required to sustain partnerships in the face of competing ambitions and priorities. - majait.net
'Nagbilin na ako.... ‘Pag namatay ako, 'wag ka tumigil hanggang hindi mo mapapatay sila,' Vice President Sara Duterte says in a media briefing via Zoom
Vice President Sara Duterte Issues Ominous Warning, Raising Political Tensions
In an unprecedented and controversial move, Vice President Sara Duterte issued a chilling warning to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez during a late-night press conference via Zoom on Saturday, November 23. Addressing a question posed by a Diehard Duterte Supporters (DDS) vlogger about her approach to corruption and criminality, Duterte made an alarming statement that has reverberated across the nation’s political landscape.
“‘Wag kang mag-alala sa security ko kasi may kinausap na ako na tao. Sinabi ko sa kanya, ‘pag pinatay ako, patayin mo si BBM, si Liza Araneta, at si Martin Romualdez. No joke. No joke,” she said.
(“Don’t worry about my security because I’ve already talked to someone. I told him, if I get killed, kill BBM, Liza Araneta, and Martin Romualdez. No joke. No joke.”)
The Vice President, whose rhetoric often mirrors her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, doubled down on her statement. “Nagbilin na ako, Ma’am. ‘Pag namatay ako, ‘wag ka tumigil hanggang hindi mo mapapatay sila. And then he said yes,” she added, referring to an unnamed individual she claimed to have entrusted with this deadly instruction.
The Vice President’s remarks come amid escalating tensions between her and the Marcos administration. These tensions have seen Duterte make increasingly aggressive public statements targeting the President, the First Lady, and the Speaker of the House. What began as a political alliance between the Duterte and Marcos families during the 2022 elections now appears to have devolved into a bitter power struggle, with high-stakes rhetoric dominating headlines.
Her latest statements, however, mark a significant escalation, as they not only directly implicate her in endorsing violence but also spotlight deep-seated animosities within the ruling coalition.
Duterte’s statements have sparked widespread outrage and concern, with legal experts, political analysts, and civil society groups weighing in on the gravity of her words. Legal professionals argue that her remarks could be construed as incitement to violence, raising questions about potential legal consequences for the Vice President.
Political analyst Professor Amado Mendoza noted, “These statements cross the line of political posturing and delve into dangerous territory. They undermine public confidence in the government’s ability to resolve internal disputes peacefully and could encourage further destabilization.”
Meanwhile, human rights groups have condemned the Vice President’s remarks, describing them as a blatant disregard for democratic principles and the rule of law.
Marcos Administration’s Response
The Marcos administration has yet to issue an official statement addressing Duterte’s incendiary comments. However, sources within Malacañang indicate growing unease over the Vice President’s increasingly unpredictable behavior. Privately, allies of the President are reportedly deliberating on how to respond to the Vice President’s latest outburst without further inflaming tensions.
The statement also raises concerns about the security and stability of key government figures. Political insiders speculate that the Vice President’s words could strain relations further, particularly with Speaker Romualdez, who plays a crucial role in advancing the administration’s legislative agenda.
Sara Duterte’s remarks echo the hardline rhetoric often employed by her father, Rodrigo Duterte, during his presidency. Known for his unapologetic remarks on extrajudicial killings and other contentious policies, the elder Duterte’s legacy looms large over his daughter’s political career.
While Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial language was often seen as part of his political brand, critics argue that Sara Duterte’s latest remarks go beyond mere theatrics, given the direct threat they pose to the lives of key government officials.
The Duterte-Marcos alliance, forged to secure their respective strongholds during the 2022 elections, is now visibly fractured. The Vice President’s repeated criticisms of the Marcos administration, particularly targeting the First Lady and Speaker Romualdez, have fueled speculation about her political ambitions and potential plans to run for the presidency in 2028.
Observers note that the breakdown of this alliance could have significant repercussions for governance. Political infighting threatens to overshadow key policy initiatives and distract from pressing national issues such as economic recovery, national security, and foreign relations.
Amid the fallout, calls for accountability have grown louder. Opposition lawmakers and advocacy groups are urging the administration and Congress to investigate the Vice President’s statements.
“If we allow these kinds of threats to go unaddressed, it sets a dangerous precedent,” said Senator Risa Hontiveros. “Our democracy cannot afford leaders who resort to violence or threats of violence to settle political scores.”
The Vice President’s statements have left the nation grappling with questions about the state of its leadership and the potential consequences of an increasingly volatile political climate. As calls for de-escalation and accountability mount, the future of the Duterte-Marcos dynamic—and its implications for the country—remains uncertain.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of political alliances and the critical need for leaders to prioritize the rule of law and democratic principles over personal vendettas.
In an early morning press conference on Saturday, Vice President Sara Duterte made an alarming statement, warning President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos that their lives would be in danger if she were killed. The remarks, described as “an active threat” by Malacañang, have raised serious concerns about the intensifying political rift at the highest levels of government.
“I’ve already made arrangements, Ma’am. If I die, don’t stop until you kill them. And then he said yes,” Duterte declared during the briefing, held past midnight. Her statement, directed at the President, the First Lady, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez, has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for immediate action.
In response to the Vice President’s comments, Malacañang issued a statement indicating that the matter had been referred to the Presidential Security Command (PSC). “The Executive Secretary has referred this active threat to the Presidential Security Command for immediate proper action,” the statement read.
The PSC’s involvement underscores the gravity of the situation, with security arrangements for the President and his family likely to be heightened as a precautionary measure. Officials close to the Palace have privately expressed concern over the impact of Duterte’s remarks on the stability of the administration and the broader political climate.
The midnight briefing was initially convened to address the House committee on good government’s decision to transfer Zuleika Lopez, Duterte’s chief of staff, from the House detention facility to the Women’s Correctional Facility in Mandaluyong City. Lopez had been detained following allegations of contempt in an ongoing congressional investigation.
Lopez was originally scheduled to deliver the briefing from her detention cell. However, she reportedly suffered an anxiety attack moments before the conference began. This prompted Vice President Duterte to take over, delivering remarks that quickly veered into uncharted and incendiary territory.
Following her health episode, Lopez was transferred to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) for observation on Saturday morning. She was later moved to St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City before being returned to VMMC on the same day under orders from the House panel.
The Vice President’s controversial comments have added fuel to the growing tensions between her and President Marcos. Once allies in the 2022 elections, Duterte and Marcos have seen their partnership fracture, with public disagreements over key policies and alleged power struggles behind closed doors.
Her remarks, which many have interpreted as a direct threat to the President and his inner circle, have deepened the perception of an irreparable rift. Political analysts warn that such incendiary rhetoric not only undermines the integrity of the government but also sets a dangerous precedent for political discourse.
“This is not just a political spat—it’s a potential crisis of governance,” said Dr. Andrea Bautista, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines. “When the second-highest official in the land openly makes threats against the President, it erodes public trust and creates instability within the political system.”
Broader Context: Detention of Zuleika Lopez
At the center of the midnight briefing was the ongoing controversy surrounding Zuleika Lopez, the Vice President’s chief of staff. Lopez has been detained by the House committee on good government amid allegations of non-cooperation in an investigation linked to corruption and misuse of government resources.
Her transfer to the Women’s Correctional Facility was ordered on Friday, sparking protests from Duterte and her camp, who decried the move as politically motivated. The Vice President’s decision to personally address the press conference—though unorthodox—highlighted her dissatisfaction with the proceedings and her belief that the actions against Lopez are part of a broader effort to target her office.
The Vice President’s remarks have been met with widespread condemnation from lawmakers, civil society groups, and legal experts. Many have called for a thorough investigation into her comments, emphasizing the need for accountability and adherence to the rule of law.
“Threats of violence have no place in a democratic government,” said Senator Risa Hontiveros. “The Vice President must be held accountable for her words, which could incite instability and undermine the very institutions she is sworn to protect.”
Human rights groups have also expressed concern about the rhetoric, describing it as a reflection of a toxic political culture that prioritizes personal vendettas over public service.
As the political landscape grows increasingly volatile, all eyes are on Malacañang and the House of Representatives for their next moves. The fallout from Duterte’s remarks could have far-reaching implications for the administration’s ability to govern effectively and maintain the confidence of the public.
Meanwhile, questions about Zuleika Lopez’s detention and the handling of her case continue to swirl, adding another layer of complexity to an already fraught situation.
In a nation long accustomed to political drama, the current standoff between its top leaders stands out as a particularly perilous chapter. The weeks ahead will determine whether the tensions can be defused or if they will escalate further, with consequences that could shape the country’s political future.
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OWWA Explores Driver's License Renewal for Overseas Filipinos
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is exploring the possibility of renewing driver's licenses for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), a long-held dream of the agency. Recently, they launched a pilot testing program for driver's license renewal for OFWs in Taiwan.
Filipinos in Taiwan can now renew their driver's licenses through the eGovPH app. The app aims to streamline and expedite transactions between the Philippine government and its citizens.
"The Driver’s License renewal feature on the eGovPH app is currently in pilot testing for our compatriots in Taiwan. Through this app, the renewal process is made easier and faster, even if you are abroad," OWWA stated in their Facebook post.
The eGovPH app boasts a "single sign-on" feature, providing easy access to various government agency accounts, including PhilHealth, GSIS, and SSS.
However, the big question remains: what about other countries? One netizen commented on the post, "Can we renew our driver's licenses here in Saudi Arabia?"
OWWA promptly addressed the netizen's query, stating that the pilot testing of the license renewal feature is currently limited to OFWs in Taiwan. "But don't worry, Kabayan, we are sure that more countries will be able to access this feature on the eGovPH app," OWWA assured.
𝟯𝟬𝟬,𝟬𝟬𝟬𝘁𝗵 𝗢𝗙𝗪 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴! 🎉✈️Ngayong araw, binigyan natin ng munting sorpresa at recognition ang isa nating Kababayan na pang-300,000 na bumisita sa ating OFW Lounge sa NAIA Terminal 3! 🎊Sino ang mag-aakala na ang dating pangarap lang ni Admin Arnell at ng ilang Kababayan natin ay magiging isang realidad na ngayon ay nagseserbisyo na sa 300,000 OFWs—and counting! 🙌Mula sa maliit na pangarap, ngayon ay patuloy na lumalawak at tumitibay ang ating serbisyong alay para sa bawat OFW. Ito ay para sa inyong mga bayani ng ating bayan! 🥹🫶To more OFWs na pagsisilbihan at aalagaan natin! 💙 Para sa inyo ito, Kabayan!All the picture credit from the OWWA FB Account
