President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the reinstatement of P60 billion in excess funds to PhilHealth, previously allocated to the national treasury, with savings from the DPWH facilitating the return. The funds are expected to strengthen the state health insurer’s financial resources.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved salary and benefits increases for over 120,000 employees within 219 government-owned and controlled corporations in the Philippines, recognizing their contributions to state revenues.
House Majority Leader Sandro Marcos reprimanded Rep. Paolo Duterte for his absences in the House of Representatives, emphasizing the importance of attendance for effective participation in the legislative process. This incident highlights the need for cooperation and engagement among lawmakers for a consultative approach to governance.
Gretchen Barretto has filed a counter-affidavit in the ongoing investigation of the missing “sabungeros” in the Philippines. The submission took place at the Department of Justice in Manila. This step is part of efforts to address the high-profile case involving individuals who vanished after attending cockfighting events. The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover the truth behind the disappearances.
Vice President Sara Duterte declined to answer questions about her confidential fund expenditures, citing her impeachment trial preparation during a House hearing in Manila. The proposed budget for the Office of the Vice President is P902.8 million.
Senator Robin Padilla introduced the “Anti-Pabebe Act of 2025” in the Philippines to enhance early education through practical life skills, values formation, and environmental awareness. The bill, Senate Bill No. 1300, seeks to integrate these elements into the K to 12 program, promoting holistic development and preparing students for real-world challenges.
Acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte has filed criminal and administrative complaints against Cabinet secretaries and former top police officials over the arrest of his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, and his turnover to the International Criminal Court. The allegations include kidnapping and arbitrary detention related to Rodrigo Duterte’s ICC case.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. pledged full independence for the Independent Commission for Infrastructure to combat corruption in government projects. Meanwhile, Brice Hernandez returned to Senate custody.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III expressed confidence in his leadership despite tensions with the minority bloc, assuring that unity, dialogue, and cooperation remain central to the Senate’s legislative work.
An ICC-accredited lawyer rejected claims by Rodrigo Duterte’s defense team that he is mentally unfit, saying there is no evidence to support their bid for his interim release. Proceedings against the former president continue at the International Criminal Court.