PH Politics

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.

The Commission on Elections in the Philippines announced the 12 winners of the Senate seats for 2025, with Sen. Bong Go and former Sen. Bam Aquino leading. The results showed a diverse political landscape with allies of former President Duterte and liberal opposition candidates making significant gains, alongside an unexpected boost for Vice President Sara Duterte ahead of her impeachment trial.

The Department of Justice aims to exhaust all legal remedies to bring former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque back to the Philippines to face charges related to human trafficking linked to a POGO operation. The PNP is considering Interpol’s assistance to ensure his arrest.

The Philippine Commission on Elections (Comelec) denied Apollo Quiboloy’s camp’s bid for a manual vote recount, emphasizing the necessity for an election protest to trigger such an action. Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia announced the decision, underscoring the importance of adhering to legal protocols in election disputes.