Ex–executive secretary Eduardo Ermita dies at 90
Eduardo Ermita, former executive secretary and defense chief of the Philippines, passed away at 90 in Batangas. His daughter, Mayor Lisa Ermita, confirmed his death on October 18, 2025.
Eduardo Ermita, former executive secretary and defense chief of the Philippines, passed away at 90 in Batangas. His daughter, Mayor Lisa Ermita, confirmed his death on October 18, 2025.
Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez has requested the postponement of his second hearing with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure due to a scheduled medical procedure. Originally planned for October 22, 2025, the hearing aims to investigate potential corruption in flood control projects and review Romualdez’s involvement in the national budget. The ICI will announce its decision on the request shortly. Romualdez resigned as House Speaker but expresses his intention to cooperate fully with the commission’s investigation.
GSIS trustees demand the resignation of President Jose Arnulfo Veloso, alleging P8.8 billion losses due to poor investment decisions, while the pension fund cites record growth.
The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) is actively working to recover P5 billion in assets connected to flood control project corruption in the Philippines. The assets include vehicles and bank accounts, emphasizing the importance of financial oversight and accountability.
The DOJ has denied reports suggesting that former Speaker Martin Romualdez applied to be a state witness in the flood control investigation, clarifying that he is not under consideration for the role. The flood control probe continues with a focus on transparency and accountability in public works.
The Supreme Court of the Philippines has ordered President Marcos and officials to respond to a writ of kalikasan regarding flood control projects, as part of legal proceedings focused on environmental concerns.
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P3 billion to enhance internet connectivity in schools and public areas, aiming to improve educational resources and public Wi-Fi access. The funds will support school internet connectivity and the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s public Wi-Fi program, facilitating greater access to digital resources and connectivity.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has allowed a bill providing free funeral services for indigent families to lapse into law as Republic Act 11974, declared on Monday. The law, implemented by DSWD, offers funeral assistance to impoverished families, fulfilling the government’s social welfare commitments.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) directed local government units in Cebu and Davao to perform rapid structural assessments after recent earthquakes. The assessments, led by building officials and engineers, will focus on heavily affected areas and structures showing visible damage.
The Philippine government aims to recover ₱10 billion in insurance claims from projects handled by Pacifico “Curlee” and Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya. Disclosures during a Senate budget hearing revealed issues like ghost projects and substandard work. The Insurance Commission indicated that 30% of project values are insured. The Senate Committee on Finance is evaluating potential recoveries, emphasizing transparency and accountability in public projects.