President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announces the continuation of the P20/kg rice program until 2028 during the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, emphasizing its importance for food security and affordability amidst public skepticism.
The National Bureau of Investigation seized over PHP 120 million worth of counterfeit luxury goods in Manila and Parañaque. The operation targeted stalls and buildings distributing fake items, securing 1,002 products. The NBI continues its efforts to combat intellectual property rights violations, urging public cooperation against the sale of counterfeit goods.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. retains his core economic team and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin while replacing two Cabinet members following midterm elections. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo is replaced by DFA Undersecretary Tess Lazaro, and Environmental Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga resigns. The administration aims to recalibrate and strengthen governance through strategic appointments and maintaining economic stability.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) Second Division dismissed a disqualification case against Senator-elect Erwin Tulfo relating to the May 12 midterm elections, citing that the citizenship issue should have been addressed through a different petition process.
Philippine Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada has urged the government to file a diplomatic protest against China following an incident involving a Chinese Coast Guard vessel and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources’ BRP Datu Sanday in the West Philippine Sea. Tensions remain high over territorial disputes in the region.
The DOJ dismissed complaints filed by former President Duterte against PNP Chief Marbil and ex-Interior Secretary Abalos concerning the arrest operation of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, citing lack of evidence.
The ICC has extended the deadline to July 1, 2025, for the disclosure of witness identities and arrest warrant materials in the case against former President Rodrigo Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity.
The Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) is evaluating legal options, including a potential Interpol red notice, against former spokesperson Harry Roque, who faces human trafficking charges and is currently in hiding abroad.
Sharon Cuneta and Senator-elect Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan attended their daughter Frankie Pangilinan’s graduation in New York on May 18. The couple shared the joyful event on social media, highlighting their dedication to family amidst busy public lives.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged the 2025 Philippine Military Academy graduates to serve with dignity, honor, and love. He acknowledged the role of their families in their success and highlighted the values of dedication and patriotism during the ceremony at Fort Del Pilar in Baguio City.