H-1B visa lottery replaced in sweeping process change

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is ending the random H-1B visa lottery and introducing a wage-based selection system that prioritizes higher-paid, highly skilled foreign workers. The change affects both the regular H-1B cap and the advanced degree exemption, using federal wage levels to rank employer registrations. The agency states that the new process aims to align the program with labor market needs and strengthen protections for U.S. workers by favoring higher-wage positions. The numerical cap on H-1B visas remains unchanged under current law.

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Texas GOP faces legal opposition in bid to close state’s open primary system

The Republican Party of Texas is pursuing a federal lawsuit to close the state’s open primary system, arguing that crossover voting by Democrats and independents violates its First Amendment freedom of association. Disability advocates and voting access groups oppose a move to party registration, warning it could discourage participation by voters with disabilities through added administrative barriers.

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Preservation group seeks limits as Trump pushes forward with construction

A preservation group raised concerns about rapid renovation and construction activity at the White House under President Donald Trump, citing limited outside oversight and unclear preservation safeguards. The group called for stronger, standardized limits and more transparency on how any administration can alter the historic executive mansion and its grounds. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between modernization, security needs, and historic preservation at one of the United States’ most significant federal properties.

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Cabral found positive for anti-depressants, says PNP

The Philippine National Police announced that a toxicology report released to the media showed Cabral tested positive for citalopram, identified by the PNP as an antidepressant drug. Police officials said a forensic laboratory conducted the toxicology screening using standard procedures and transmitted the results to investigators for documentation. The PNP stated that the findings form part of official case records and that personnel followed chain-of-custody rules in handling samples. The report did not disclose further medical details about Cabral beyond the confirmed presence of citalopram.

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AiAi delas Alas parts with Gerald Sibayan’s rings, sells to Boss Toyo

Actress-comedienne AiAi delas Alas sold rings linked to her ex-husband Gerald Sibayan to entrepreneur and “Pinoy Pawnstars” host Jhon Paul “Boss Toyo” Delos Santos in a recorded transaction. The video showed Delas Alas presenting the jewelry, Boss Toyo appraising the pieces, and both parties finalizing the cash sale on camera. The episode, published on social media, documented how Delas Alas converted the rings from her previous marriage into money while Boss Toyo acquired the items for his business.

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