October 30, 2025 7:00 pm

Cassandra Ong reportedly last seen in Japan

LAWIN.newsNovember 23, 202503 views

Philippine authorities reported that Katherine Cassandra Li Ong, charged with qualified human trafficking over her alleged links to the Lucky South 99 offshore gaming hub in Porac, Pampanga, was last tracked in Japan after her release from detention, according to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, which continues to coordinate with domestic and foreign agencies to monitor her whereabouts and pursue the ongoing case as part of wider efforts against organized crime and human trafficking connected to offshore gaming operations.

Rob Deniel honors Original Pilipino Music

LAWIN.newsNovember 23, 202504 views

Philippine singer-songwriter Rob Deniel, 22, pays tribute to Original Pilipino Music (OPM) through a growing catalog of self-written songs and performances that media outlets, including the Philippine Daily Inquirer, have featured. This news article reports how Deniel’s original compositions, live appearances, and recordings position him among the most visible young OPM artists in the Philippines. It details his role in contemporary Filipino music, the platforms that carry his work, and the coverage that highlights his contributions to the OPM tradition.

Marcos urges space science, technology to benefit the public

LAWIN.newsNovember 23, 202505 views

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday highlighted in Manila the role of space science and technology in boosting the Philippines’ climate resilience, disaster response and sustainable development efforts. He outlined how satellite data supports weather forecasting, hazard mapping, damage assessment, resource monitoring and planning for infrastructure and land use. Marcos also stressed the importance of education, research, inter-agency coordination and partnerships with local and international stakeholders to expand space-based services. The government plans to align space initiatives with national priorities on climate action, food security, environmental protection and inclusive growth while promoting innovation and responsible use of public funds.

Marcos receives strong endorsement from state governors

LAWIN.newsNovember 23, 202507 views

Governors from across the Philippines reaffirmed their support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during a meeting in Malacañang in Manila, where they discussed national programs, local development priorities, and coordination with the national government amid ongoing controversies surrounding the administration, according to the Presidential Communications Office. Malacañang officials said major business groups also maintain their backing for the government’s economic agenda and continue to coordinate with the Office of the President on investments and public-private partnerships. The article details the issues raised by governors, the responses from national agencies, and the follow-up actions that the government plans to undertake with local chief executives and private sector representatives.

U.S. lawmakers warn peace plan may tilt in Russia’s favor

LAWIN.newsNovember 23, 202508 views

U.S. lawmakers on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the Congressional Ukraine Caucus voiced concern over a reported Ukraine-Russia peace plan they say appears to favor Moscow. They called for details on how the proposal emerged, who was involved, and whether it aligns with existing U.S. policy on Ukraine, sanctions, and European security. Members also pressed for formal briefings from the Trump administration, raised questions about possible back-channel discussions, and stressed that any peace initiative must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and international law.

Whooping cough cases rise 58% in Austin-Travis County, APH warns

LAWIN.newsNovember 23, 202508 views

Austin Public Health reports that Austin-Travis County has recorded more than 130 whooping cough (pertussis) cases so far this year, marking a 58% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Health officials say the rise spans multiple age groups and neighborhoods and emphasize vaccination, early diagnosis, and isolation during the contagious period as key steps to limit spread. The department continues to monitor case data, coordinate with state health authorities, and provide guidance to schools, childcare facilities, and healthcare providers across the county.

Adolis García among 66 cut loose; India leads 34 players who reached agreements

LAWIN.newsNovember 23, 202509 views

Major League Baseball’s non-tender deadline on November 15, 2024, sent 66 players into free agency, including Texas Rangers outfielder Adolis García, catcher Jonah Heim and right-hander Josh Sborz. Another 34 arbitration-eligible players agreed to contracts before the cutoff, led by Kansas City infielder Jonathan India at $8 million for 2025. The moves reshaped rosters and payroll plans across the league and expanded the free agent market ahead of the 2025 season.

Buddhist monks set out on a 2,300-mile journey from Texas to Washington

LAWIN.newsNovember 23, 202505 views

A group of Buddhist monks is walking 2,300 miles from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., on a “Walk for Peace” to promote unity, compassion, and inner peace. The route spans 10 states and includes community events at temples, malls, and parks. Two monks were injured near Dayton, Texas, when a truck struck their escort vehicle and pushed it into them on U.S. 90, according to police. Organizers say the walk, rooted in Buddhist pilgrimage tradition, will continue as they coordinate with law enforcement and medical officials.

Defense Health Agency investigates claims tied to Army gynecologist

LAWIN.newsNovember 23, 2025012 views

The Defense Health Agency has launched an internal review of its protocols and procedures after allegations that an Army gynecologist sexually exploited patients at a military medical facility. The agency is examining patient safety measures, use of chaperones, complaint handling, provider oversight and training on professional conduct across the military health system. Officials say the review will assess whether existing safeguards are sufficient and may lead to policy and procedure changes in Army, Navy and Air Force medical facilities.

DFA poised to cancel Zaldy Co’s passport pending legal ruling

LAWIN.newsNovember 22, 2025011 views

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it has not yet received a court order to cancel the passport of resigned lawmaker Zaldy Co, who faces an arrest warrant. The DFA explained that it can only act on passport cancellations when courts or competent authorities issue formal directives. The agency said it will comply once it receives the required order and confirmed that it coordinates with law enforcement and judicial institutions in handling travel documents of individuals with pending criminal cases.