Janet Lim-Napoles and three former officials were convicted by the Sandiganbayan on October 3, 2023, for diverting P7.55 million from the Priority Development Assistance Fund. Napoles, known for the pork barrel scam, received additional prison sentences, while her accomplices faced similar charges. Appeals are pending.
The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) on Friday criticized the planned increase in terminal fees at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to implement a 50% discount on train fares for minimum wage earners.
A bus crash on a New York State highway resulted in several casualties, including Filipinos, confirmed by the Department of Foreign Affairs. The accident involved a tourist bus returning from Niagara Falls and led to multiple fatalities and injuries.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte’s defense team has requested the International Criminal Court for immediate interim release to an undisclosed country after initially requesting a deferral of the decision.
Rep. Chel Diokno introduces a bill requiring translations of laws with penal provisions into Filipino, Bisaya, and Ilocano to ensure legal accessibility for non-English speaking Filipinos. The proposed legislation mandates translation timelines for new and existing laws, enhancing understanding and engagement with the legal system.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. acknowledged the clarity time has brought to the understanding of Ninoy Aquino’s assassination, stressing the importance of learning from history, as the Philippines commemorates Ninoy Aquino Day.
Vice President Sara Duterte’s comments on the state of Philippine schools have drawn criticism from officials who question her past performance as Education Secretary. Representative Antonio Tinio labeled her as the worst in the role, citing failures in budget management and resource provision during her tenure. The issue highlights the need for effective leadership in education.
The U.S. has formally requested the extradition of detained religious leader Apollo Quiboloy from the Philippines. Philippine Ambassador to the U.S., Jose Manuel Romualdez, confirmed the request on August 20, 2023, highlighting the ongoing legal proceedings between the two nations.
Over 100 Filipino trafficking victims returned to the Philippines from Southeast Asia between July 31 and August 9. The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) coordinated the effort, providing support and rehabilitation services to the individuals. The government emphasizes its commitment to combating human trafficking and aiding affected citizens.
Actress Nadia Montenegro resigned as political affairs officer for Senator Robin Padilla amid allegations of marijuana use in the Senate. She denies the claims, citing mental health and family concerns for her resignation.