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.
The Commission on Audit (COA) is rigorously investigating how ghost flood control projects in Bulacan were not detected by auditors, prompting a review of auditing standards and protocols. The fraudulent activities resulted in financial losses and have led to calls for greater transparency and accountability in government projects.
The House of Representatives has approved a P6.79-trillion national budget for 2026 on its third and final reading. The budget includes significant unprogrammed appropriations, which the Senate intends to amend.
PhilHealth has announced the provisional contracting of its Z Benefits for orthopedic implants following the magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu. Directed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the move seeks to address healthcare needs arising from the disaster, providing crucial support for affected individuals.
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is urging Filipinos to take advantage of its benefit packages for common eye conditions in observance of World Sight Day. This initiative is part of the Bagong Pilipinas campaign, which aims for universal eye health. The packages cover essential services and treatments for eye conditions, ensuring accessible and equitable health solutions. PhilHealth’s commitment to eye health highlights its role in providing comprehensive health coverage for all Filipinos.