Grok AI moves into Pentagon use despite backlash

The Pentagon plans to adopt Elon Musk’s Grok AI chatbot for internal use, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, days after the system faced global backlash over the generation of highly sexualized deepfake images. The decision places the U.S. defense establishment at the center of ongoing debates over AI safety, misuse of synthetic media, and security risks linked to advanced chatbots. Officials have not disclosed deployment details, safeguards, or oversight measures for Grok. Privacy advocates, legal experts, and digital rights groups continue to call for stronger regulation and accountability mechanisms for AI tools used by governments and military agencies worldwide.

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Sandiganbayan keeps Co listed as fugitive from justice

The Sandiganbayan Fifth Division in Manila, Philippines, has denied the motion for reconsideration filed for former lawmaker Elizaldy Co and upheld its earlier ruling declaring him a fugitive from justice. In a nine-page resolution promulgated on January 8, 2025, the anti-graft court ruled that Co, who faces a graft case linked to a road dike construction project in Oriental Mindoro, has no standing to seek affirmative relief while in fugitive status.

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Wolf Gemora touches down in Philippines for Wolfgang reunion

Wolfgang drummer Wolf Gemora has arrived in the Philippines from the United States to begin rehearsals for the rock band’s reunion concert set for next month. Organizers confirmed his arrival and said he will join practice sessions in Metro Manila as the group prepares its set list and arrangements. The band’s management plans to announce the exact date, venue, and ticket details after the early rehearsal phase. Fans await additional information about the long-anticipated reunion performance featuring the classic Wolfgang lineup.

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BBC asks court to throw out Trump’s $10B defamation case

The BBC is asking a Florida court to dismiss a $10 billion defamation lawsuit filed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Court filings show the British public broadcaster argues the Florida court lacks jurisdiction over a UK-based media entity. The case centers on BBC coverage that Trump claims damaged his reputation and seeks substantial damages. The court will review whether it has authority over the BBC before addressing any underlying defamation issues.

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Powell confirms Fed received DOJ subpoenas over building renovations

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said the U.S. Department of Justice served subpoenas on the central bank over building renovation matters ahead of his June 2025 Senate Banking Committee testimony. The subpoenas, according to Powell, warned of a possible criminal indictment tied to issues expected to arise during the hearing. He did not identify specific projects, individuals, or statutes under review. The Justice Department has not publicly detailed the investigation, and no charges have been announced. Lawmakers plan to question Powell on monetary policy, internal operations, and oversight of renovation contracts at Fed facilities.

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Trump briefed on new options for military strikes in Iran, source says

President Donald Trump received a classified briefing on new U.S. military strike options against Iran, according to a source familiar with the discussions. The review of potential responses came as tensions with Tehran remained high and U.S. officials monitored Iran’s internal security actions and regional activities. On Friday, Trump publicly stated that if the Iranian government resumed “killing people like they have in the past,” the United States “would get involved,” signaling a possible red line tied to large-scale violence against civilians. Officials did not confirm any decision to carry out strikes.

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