The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced on November 3 the reduction of building material costs after discovering inflated prices by up to 75%. The decision aims to reflect market rates more accurately and alleviate financial pressure on construction projects.
Senator JV Ejercito has introduced the Emman Atienza Bill to combat cyberbullying, fake news, and online defamation in the Philippines, aiming to enhance protections for internet users under existing laws.
Former Representative Zaldy Co has refused to accept an Ombudsman order to file a counter-affidavit related to allegations of involvement in anomalous flood control projects. The order, sent to Co’s last known address, was not accepted, leading to potential default proceedings. The Independent Commission on Infrastructure has filed complaints against Co, and the Ombudsman is moving forward based on available documents.
The International Criminal Court’s Appeals Chamber has designated a presiding judge for the appeal regarding jurisdiction over alleged crimes against humanity in the Philippines, filed by former President Rodrigo Duterte’s defense team.
Representative Leila de Lima filed House Bill No. 5131 to strengthen the Philippine Coast Guard’s organizational and operational framework. The proposal follows Cavite Rep. Francisco Barzaga’s call to abolish the agency amid West Philippine Sea tensions. The bill aims to enhance the PCG’s capacity for maritime security and address resource limitations. The House of Representatives will review the proposed legislation.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged Filipinos to honor the legacy of their departed loved ones and saints by embodying their virtues and continuing their good deeds. In a nationwide address, Marcos emphasized the importance of remembering the deceased through actions reflecting their positive contributions to society, encouraging citizens to uphold these values in daily life. This aligns with traditional Philippine practices during All Saints’ Day, highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of remembering and celebrating the deceased.
The Department of Education in the Philippines eyes closed private school buildings and underutilized properties to address the classroom shortage, reaching over 165,000 in 2022. This initiative aims to provide a scalable and cost-effective leasing solution, with properties like the Pita Property in Laguna identified for immediate use.
The SWS survey published in October 2025 reports that 50% of Filipino families consider themselves poor, translating to 14.2 million families. The survey also highlights concerns about food poverty, with 41% of families identifying as food-poor, while categories such as borderline, always, usually, and newly poor are examined.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered government agencies to lower construction costs for infrastructure projects, including classrooms, hospitals, and farm-to-market roads, to curb corruption and improve resource management. The initiative aims for cost reductions by 2026 while ensuring quality and efficiency in public spending.
The family of Mary Jane Veloso has appealed to the Supreme Court to expedite the resolution of her case against her alleged traffickers. Veloso is a Filipina who was convicted in Indonesia for drug trafficking. Her family seeks swift justice, emphasizing the prolonged nature of the legal proceedings.