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 Armed Forces of the Philippines blocked an attempt by Chinese ships to board the BRP Sierra Madre in the West Philippine Sea, as lawmakers praised their efforts to protect the nation’s maritime domain.
The Sandiganbayan acquitted former Vice President Jejomar Binay, his son Erwin Binay, and several co-accused in connection with the P2.2 billion Makati City carpark project.
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.
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.
Philippine lawmakers urge urgent action on the U.S. extradition request for controversial pastor Apollo Quiboloy. They cite his strong local influence as a critical factor. The case involves allegations of human trafficking and has drawn significant international attention, impacting diplomatic relations and local judicial proceedings.
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.
Senator Bam Aquino commemorated Ninoy Aquino Day on August 21, 2025, highlighting his uncle’s legacy and the ongoing fight for justice in the Philippines.
Vice President Sara Duterte admitted lack of knowledge on the curriculum she led as education secretary, according to the Palace. Her tenure faced criticisms, including reliance on officials, undistributed gadgets, and misused funds. Duterte resigned, continues to criticize President Marcos’s administration, and faces corruption allegations.