The Federation of Free Farmers in the Philippines has proposed seasonal tariffs on imported rice to protect local farmers and manage the influx of imported grain. The group suggests imposing higher tariffs before and during the harvest season, alongside Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura’s petition to revert rice tariffs to higher rates, as current reductions have not lowered retail prices significantly.
The Philippine Embassy in Thailand cautioned against false reports of 10 Filipinos dead in Myanmar following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. They confirmed no Filipino casualties and urge reliance on official updates.
Estelito Mendoza, a renowned lawyer and former Solicitor General of the Philippines, died at 95. Known for defending high-profile figures in major corruption cases, Mendoza was a pivotal legal figure, earning both admiration and criticism. His death was confirmed by the Philippine National Bank.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) have signed an agreement to safeguard the source codes for the 2025 national and local elections in the Philippines. This collaboration aims to bolster the integrity and transparency of the electoral process, ensuring the secure storage of critical elements required for automated elections. The move is part of Comelec’s broader efforts to enhance trust in the electoral system and address security concerns, ensuring the 2025 elections are conducted with credibility and transparency.
During a Senate hearing on the alleged crimes against humanity case against former President Rodrigo Duterte, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla disclosed that 95% of the “wrongful deaths” connected to Duterte’s drug war lacked police documentation. This revelation is part of the ongoing investigation by the International Criminal Court into the drug war and its human rights implications, focusing on the accountability and effectiveness of the justice system in the Philippines.
Major General Nicholas dela Torre III of the PNP-CIDG revealed in a Senate committee hearing the necessity of using force in the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. His admission spotlights the complexities surrounding the application of force during the apprehension of high-profile political figures. The hearing, led by Sen. Imee Marcos, examined the legal and ethical considerations of such actions, raising questions about police procedures and human rights. The event is now under scrutiny as it impacts law enforcement’s role in politically sensitive contexts in the Philippines.
Alexie Mae Brooks of the Philippines leads the Eco Tourism Video poll in Miss Eco International 2025. The pageant showcases sustainable tourism, drawing global attention.
The Quezon City Police District has formally requested Facebook to remove the page of Patrolman Francis Steve Fontillas. Fontillas has been posting content critical of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Philippine National Police, while expressing support for former President Duterte. His actions have prompted the QCPD’s intervention, seeking compliance with police conduct standards. This request raises ongoing discussions about free speech and its boundaries, especially in relation to public servants.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) denies any guidance restricting social media freedom for families of military personnel. This statement comes amidst widespread social media discussions linked to the International Criminal Court’s ongoing investigations. The AFP emphasizes the importance of transparency and free expression, reassuring military families while maintaining their commitment to responsible social media use. The clarification aims to dispel misinformation and ensure support for military families in the digital landscape.
The Supreme Court of the Philippines has declared that teachers could be held liable for damages if they do not exercise due diligence in preventing students under their care from causing harm to others. This decision, made by the court’s First Division and released to the public in November 2024, emphasizes the legal responsibilities of educators in ensuring a safe learning environment.