December 30, 2025 6:00 pm | Page 10 of 29

City of San Antonio cleans out river

LAWIN.newsJanuary 15, 2026017 views

The City of San Antonio in Texas has started its biennial cleanup of the San Antonio River, temporarily draining part of the river to remove debris, sediment and overgrown vegetation. City crews are using pumps and barriers to safely access the riverbed, conduct inspections and perform minor infrastructure repairs. Officials coordinated the operation with environmental agencies and notified the public of possible access changes along the riverwalk. The river is expected to return to normal water levels once maintenance activities conclude.

Ombudsman presses probe into Leviste’s solar firm franchise ‘violations’

LAWIN.newsJanuary 15, 2026020 views

The Office of the Ombudsman in the Philippines has intensified its investigation into alleged franchise violations involving Solar Philippines, founded by Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste, after its sale to businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan. Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla is examining whether the transfer of controlling interest complied with laws requiring congressional approval for franchise holders and whether the transaction indirectly circumvented legal restrictions. The probe focuses on the sale’s structure, regulatory compliance, possible involvement of public officials, and adherence to franchise and public utility laws.

DOH: Poor nutrition during pregnancy causing kids’ ‘brain stunting’

LAWIN.newsJanuary 15, 2026022 views

The Philippine Department of Health on Thursday linked poor maternal nutrition during pregnancy to underweight births, complications, and “brain stunting” among children, as Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa underscored the importance of proper nutrition during the first 1,000 days of life. He said many Filipino pregnant women lack adequate nutritional support, which affects fetal growth, birth outcomes, and long-term child development. DOH programs now focus on improving prenatal nutrition services, food access, and breastfeeding promotion across communities.

Aljur Abrenica, Kris Bernal finally reunite after longtime ‘snub’

LAWIN.newsJanuary 15, 2026027 views

Aljur Abrenica and Kris Bernal reunited backstage at GMA’s game show “TiktoClock” on January 16, 2024, in Quezon City, as seen in a video posted on the network’s official Instagram page. The clip showed Abrenica visiting the set and interacting with Bernal, his former leading lady from “The Last Prince,” while she asked why he had not replied to her messages. GMA recorded and shared the encounter as part of its behind-the-scenes content, marking the first publicly documented interaction between the former love team in years.

Minneapolis struggles after another ICE shooting, mayor says situation is untenable

LAWIN.newsJanuary 15, 2026027 views

Minneapolis officials reported a new shooting linked to a federal immigration operation, prompting protests and clashes with federal officers on Wednesday night. Smoke filled streets near the scene as demonstrators gathered, while authorities closed roads and launched a joint local and federal investigation. The mayor said the city faces an impossible situation as it addresses public safety concerns and ongoing immigration enforcement. Investigators are reviewing evidence, coordinating across agencies and preparing to brief the public as more verified information emerges about the shooting and the protest response.

Almost 800 patients have been in Texas state hospitals for more than a year

LAWIN.newsJanuary 15, 2026030 views

Texas officials reported that almost 800 patients remained in Texas state psychiatric hospitals for more than a year, representing about 40% of the state hospital population and affecting access to inpatient mental and behavioral health services.

$300M McKinney amphitheater opening pushed back

LAWIN.newsJanuary 15, 2026032 views

McKinney, Texas officials confirmed that the opening of the $300 million, 20,000-seat Sunset Amphitheater, developed by Colorado-based Venu Holding Corp., is now scheduled for 2027. The large outdoor venue remains in active development as the city and the developer adjust timelines for design, permitting, infrastructure, and construction.

5,594 Pass 2025 Bar Exams; UP Graduate Ranks First

LAWIN.newsJanuary 14, 2026024 views

The Supreme Court (SC), led by Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo and Associate Justice Amy C. Lazaro-Javier, Chairperson of the 2025 Bar Examinations, announced yesterday that 5,594 out of the 11,420 qualified examinees passed the 2025 Bar Examinations, posting a passing rate of 48.98%.

Philippine Consulate General Invites Public to Free Screening of Multi-Awarded Filipino Film

LAWIN.newsJanuary 14, 2026033 views

The Philippine Consulate General in Houston invites the public to a special screening of the acclaimed Filipino film Sakaling Hindi Makarating (The Amazing Journey of the Letters) on 26 Jan. at 5:30 PM at the historic River Oaks Theatre in Houston.

Houston may see 500,000 visitors for World Cup festivities

LAWIN.newsJanuary 14, 2026021 views

Houston officials say the city will host seven FIFA World Cup 2026 matches at NRG Stadium and expect about 500,000 visitors over three weeks in June, a temporary population increase of roughly 20 percent. Organizers project the influx of international and domestic fans could generate up to $1 billion in economic impact through hotel stays, dining, transportation and entertainment spending. City, tourism and airport authorities coordinate security, transit, staffing and infrastructure plans as they prepare Houston to serve as a major U.S. host city for the global soccer tournament.