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MAY 9 - 15, 2025
- No.19 • 16 Pages
Trump administration offers $1,000 to undocumented immigrants who voluntarily
leave the U.S.
Washington — In an expansion of its immigration enforcement strategy, the Trump administration announced this week a new initiative that offers a $1,000 stipend and travel assistance to undocumented immigrants who voluntarily depart the United States.
The program, unveiled by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on May 5, is being facilitated through the CBP Home app, a digital platform developed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). CBP is the federal agency under DHS tasked with securing U.S. borders, regulating international travel and trade, and enforcing immigration and customs laws at ports of entry.
Voluntary departure in exchange for cash
The initiative allows eligible undocumented immigrants—those without pending criminal charges or final removal orders—to apply for self-deportation through the CBP Home app. Once DHS verifies that the applicant has returned to their home country, the government disburses a one-time $1,000 payment and covers basic travel costs.
Philippines 2025 midterm elections: High stakes, Shifting alliances, a test of leadership
by
MANILA — On May 12, more than 71 million registered voters across the Philippines will head to the polls for the 2025 midterm elections — a pivotal democratic exercise that will redefine power dynamics in the legislature, local
government units, and among the country’s most powerful political families.
What’s at Stake
Voters will fill thousands of posts:
• 12 of the 24 Senate seats
• All 317 seats in the House of Representatives
63 party-list seats
Held three years into President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s term, the midterms are viewed as a referendum on his administration’s governance. At the same time, they will test the resilience of the Duterte political dynasty, reveal the depth of public dissatisfaction or support, and potentially reconfigure the balance of power in the Senate.
Newark Airport Turmoil: Staffing shortages and tech failures ground flights at Key U.S. Hub
by AJPress
NEWARK Liberty International Airport (EWR), a vital East Coast gateway and United Airlines’ busiest hub, is facing a deepening operational crisis marked by severe delays, widespread cancellations, and passenger frustration. At the heart of the disruption: an acute air traffic controller shortage, failing infrastructure, and ongoing runway construction.
United Airlines slashes schedule United Airlines, the dominant carrier at Newark, has preemptively cut 35 daily roundtrip flights—roughly 10% of its schedule—to mitigate cascading delays. CEO Scott Kirby
rent control dilemma
by AJPress
IN the ever-evolving landscape of New York City’s housing market, recent rent control measures have ignited a complex debate, placing both tenants and landlords in challenging positions. While these policies aim to ensure affordability for residents, critics argue they may inadvertently strain landlords financially, potentially impacting
housing availability and quality. Understanding the new rent guidelines
The New York City Rent Guidelines Board (RGB) has proposed rent increases for rentstabilized apartments: • 1.75% to 4.75% for one-year leases • 4.75% to 7.75% for two-year leases
These adjustments are set to
DepEd
urged to provide alternative learning for comprehension
MANILA — Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian urged the Department of Education (DepEd) to provide alternative learning to students with poor comprehension skills following a Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) survey which found close to 19 million “functionally illiterate” graduates in 2024.
In a dwIZ interview on May 4, Gatchalian reiterated his call for the DepEd to address the issue of “functional illiteracy” or the inability to comprehend despite knowing how to read and write as the PSA defines it. He said the DepEd should look for these students at schools and place them in the alternative learning system. They can also be provided
MANILA — Security measures are in place for the May 12 mid-term elections, with the 235,000-strong Philippine National Police (PNP) going on full alert status beginning midnight on May 4 until May 15 or three days after the polls.
“Our personnel are committed to maintaining peace and order throughout the election period,” PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said in a statement. He said police officers across the country u PAGE 2
LEGACY. The bust of Melchora Aquino is prominently displayed at the Tandang Sora Women’s Museum in Quezon City on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. The museum houses the biography of the "Mother of the Philippine Revolution" and different items she used in her daily life.
PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler
AJPress
by Marc Jayson cayabyab Philstar.com
by EMManuEl Tupas Philstar.com
Philippines 2025 midterm elections...
• Over 17,900 local posts (from provincial governors to city and municipal councilors)
• Members of the Bangsamoro Parliament (elections scheduled for October 13, 2025)
A favorable Senate and House majority will be crucial for President Marcos Jr. to advance his legislative priorities — including proposed constitutional amendments and economic reforms.
Key Political Coalitions and Senate Slates
1. Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas (ABP) – ProAdministration
A coalition of parties allied with President Marcos Jr., including:
• Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP)
• Lakas–CMD
• Nacionalista Party
• National Unity Party (NUP)
• Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC)
Confirmed senatorial candidates under ABP include:
• Camille Villar (Nacionalista)
• Bong Revilla (Lakas–CMD)
• Pia Cayetano (Nacionalista)
• Benhur Abalos (PFP)
• Erwin Tulfo (NUP)
• Lito Lapid (NPC)
Manny Pacquiao (Lakas–CMD)
• Tito Sotto (NPC)
• Tol Tolentino (Lakas–CMD)
• Ping Lacson (Independent)
• Abby Binay (United Nationalist Alliance)
Note: Senator Imee Marcos, initially considered part of the ABP slate, has withdrawn from the administration coalition and is running as an independent. She cited discomfort with the administration’s handling of the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte and a desire to remain politically autonomous.
2. DuterTen Coalition –Duterte-Aligned Opposition
Led by PDP–Laban, the coalition includes:
• PDP–Laban (Partido Demokratiko Pilipino)
• PDDS (Pederalismo ng Dugong Dakilang Samahan)
• Partido Reporma Senatorial slate includes:
• Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa (PDP–Laban)
• Bong Go (PDP–Laban)
• Phillip Salvador (PDP–Laban)
• Jimmy Bondoc (PDP–Laban)
• Jayvee Hinlo (PDP–Laban)
• Raul Lambino (PDP–Laban)
• Rodante Marcoleta (Independent)
• Richard Mata (Independent)
• Vic Rodriguez (Independent)
• Apollo Quiboloy (Independent)*
Note: Quiboloy faces multiple legal cases and international sanctions; his candidacy is controversial and being challenged.
Vice President Sara Duterte, though estranged from the Marcos Cabinet, has extended support to certain ABP candidates such as Camille Villar, reflecting complex cross-party allegiances.
3. KiBam Coalition –Liberal and Progressive Opposition
A tandem campaign by former Senators Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan, the KiBam coalition is backed by:
• Liberal Party
• Akbayan Party
• Katipunan ng Nagkakaisang Pilipino (KANP)
• Key candidates include:
• Bam Aquino (KANP)
• Kiko Pangilinan (Liberal)
• Chel Diokno (KANP)
Former Vice President Leni Robredo is not part of the slate but remains influential and is running for mayor of Naga City.
4. Oposisyon ng Bayan
– Makabayan Bloc (LeftLeaning Coalition)
A progressive alliance rooted in labor, education, and grassroots movements. Member organizations include: Bayan Muna Anakpawis
• Jocelyn Andamo (Filipino Nurses United) Makabayan has fielded 11 candidates and is encouraging its supporters to complete their ballots based on shared values.
Tensions and Fractures: Marcos vs. Duterte
A growing rift between the
Marcos and Duterte camps has taken center stage. VP Sara Duterte’s 2024 resignation from the Marcos Cabinet was followed by public accusations between the two families. The tension escalated with the arrest of Rodrigo Duterte on international charges — an event that led to Senator Imee Marcos publicly criticizing her brother’s administration and withdrawing from the ABP slate.
Election Reform and Security
• Hybrid Voting: The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has implemented a hybrid system combining manual voting and automated transmission.
• Smartmatic Disqualified: Due to procurement and legal issues, the election tech company is barred from future government contracts.
• wSecurity Measures: Over 100 areas have been flagged as election hotspots. Military and police forces have been deployed to ensure safe voting.
• Combatting Disinformation: COMELEC and watchdogs are monitoring deepfakes, AI-generated campaign materials, and misinformation online.
Key Issues Driving Voter Sentiment
• Inflation and Economic Recovery: Cost-of-living concerns and job insecurity remain at the top of the electorate’s concerns.
Foreign Policy: Growing tensions with China over the West Philippine Sea are fueling nationalist rhetoric across coalitions.
Governance and AntiCorruption: Calls for transparency and reform persist amid distrust in traditional political dynasties.
Constitutional Reform: The Marcos administration is seeking to liberalize economic restrictions in the 1987 Constitution — with a possible plebiscite after the elections.
A Defining Political Crossroads
The 2025 Philippine midterm elections are not just about numbers — they are a contest of competing legacies, future leadership, and national direction. For President Marcos Jr., the results could determine the viability of his policy ambitions. For the Duterte bloc, it’s a fight for political relevance. For the opposition, it’s a chance to reclaim lost ground. For voters, it’s a defining moment to shape the future of their democracy. n
Newark Airport Turmoil: Staffing shortages...
PAGE 1
explained the move candidly: “Newark airport cannot handle the number of planes that are scheduled to operate there in the weeks and months ahead.”
Kirby cited safety and efficiency as key factors behind the reduction, acknowledging that staffing levels in the control tower and surrounding TRACON (Terminal Radar Approach Control) facilities are no longer adequate to sustain normal operations.
Controllers Walk Off After System Failure
The trigger came on April 28, when a 90-second radar and radio blackout—caused by a burned-out copper wire—left air traffic controllers momentarily unable to monitor or communicate with aircraft in Newark’s congested airspace. The incident, though brief, rattled controllers and revealed critical vulnerabilities in outdated FAA systems.
In the days that followed, more than 20% of controllers assigned to the Philadelphia TRACON, which oversees Newark’s skies, went on trauma leave under the Federal Employees Compensation Act.
With staffing already thin, the reduction pushed the system past its breaking point.
Infrastructure Woes Add to Pressure
Further compounding the disruption is the $121 million rehabilitation of Runway 4L-22R, Newark’s primary departure runway. The closure, which began April 15, is expected to last through mid-June and has slashed the airport’s capacity by up to a third during peak hours.
Government Scrutiny and FAA Response
U.S. Transportation
Secretary Sean Duffy has acknowledged the FAA’s systemic weaknesses, calling for a multibillion-dollar upgrade to the nation’s aging air traffic infrastructure. His department also rolled out hiring bonuses of up to $15,000 for air traffic controllers willing to work in high-need locations such as Newark.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has formally requested an investigation by the Department of Transportation’s Inspector General, citing “chronic understaffing and dangerously
outdated systems” at major U.S. airports.
“What happened in Newark should be a national wake-up call,” Schumer said. “We’re seeing the consequences of decades of neglect and delayed investment.”
Impact on Travelers
and
Airlines
Passengers have faced hours-long delays, last-minute cancellations, and missed connections. Industry analysts warn that with the summer travel season approaching, pressure on Newark and the national air system could intensify unless emergency measures are enacted.
Travel experts advise fliers to monitor flight statuses closely, consider alternatives like JFK or LaGuardia, and prepare for extended wait times through early July.
Turbulence on the Horizon
As Newark’s crisis unfolds, the spotlight is now firmly on the FAA’s ability to rebuild trust in air traffic control reliability. With construction, staffing, and system reforms underway but far from complete, travelers and airlines alike are bracing for a turbulent summer. n
Student loan collections resume after five-year pause
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Education has officially resumed collections on defaulted federal student loans as of May 5, 2025, ending a pandemic-era relief that shielded millions of borrowers from financial penalties for over five years.
The move affects approximately 5.3 million Americans whose loans are currently in default and comes amid a broader reorientation of federal student loan policies under the Trump administration. End of the collections freeze
The pause, originally enacted in March 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 crisis, had prevented the government from garnishing wages, withholding tax refunds, or seizing Social Security payments from borrowers who had fallen behind. The reactivation of the Treasury Offset Program this month means those protective measures have been lifted.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, borrowers in default are now subject to:
• Wage garnishment (scheduled to begin in coming months)
• Seizure of federal tax refunds
• Deductions from Social Security and disability payments
The Department confirmed in a public release:
“The resumption of default collections is part of a broader effort to return borrowers to repayment and help them regain good standing.” (Source: ed.gov)
Relief options and borrower tools
Borrowers impacted by the policy shift are encouraged to take immediate steps to avoid penalties. Options include:
• Loan Rehabilitation: Allows borrowers to make a series of agreed-upon payments to remove the loan
from default status.
• Loan Consolidation: Combines federal loans into one, placing it in good standing and enabling access to income-driven repayment plans.
• Income-Driven Repayment (IDR): Offers payment adjustments based on income and family size.
Despite administrative changes in recent months, IDR plans remain available to eligible borrowers, although some have reported confusion over eligibility and recalculations.
The Department’s Fresh Start program, launched in 2022, continues to offer streamlined paths out of default, though some provisions are set to expire in the coming year.
Institutional accountability In addition to borrowerfocused changes, the Trump administration is increasing scrutiny of educational institutions. According to a
Trump administration offers $1,000...
PAGE 1
CBP Home is a rebranded and expanded version of the earlier CBP One app, which was previously used for processing asylum appointments and immigration documentation.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem described the program as “the best, safest and most cost-effective way to leave the United States to avoid arrest.”
Fiscal justification:
“More cost-effective than detention”
According to DHS estimates, the average cost of apprehending, detaining, and deporting an undocumented immigrant exceeds $17,000. By contrast, the voluntary departure program costs less than $5,000 per person, including airfare and the stipend. Officials believe this could reduce enforcement costs by more than 70% per case.
Administration supporters say the policy represents a “humane enforcement mechanism” that minimizes legal proceedings and detention stays.
Legal risks and immigration law
While the program is presented as voluntary, immigration law experts warn that undocumented
immigrants who have resided in the U.S. for more than a year and choose to leave could face serious legal consequences—including a mandatory 10-year ban from reentering the country. This restriction remains in effect regardless of whether the departure is voluntary or enforced.
Immigrant rights groups continue to encourage individuals to consult with licensed attorneys before enrolling in the program, especially those who may qualify for asylum, legal status adjustments, or deferred action.
Larger strategy of mass deportation
The voluntary departure program is part of a broader immigration enforcement plan outlined by President Trump, who has vowed to deport millions of undocumented immigrants during his second term. The administration is also exploring third-country agreements with nations like Rwanda to accept deportees, expanding alternatives to traditional removal.
While the new policy marks a shift from arrest-anddetain tactics to incentivized compliance, it underscores the administration’s ongoing emphasis on reducing the
DepEd urged to provide alternative learning for comprehension
undocumented population through aggressive—yet increasingly strategic— means.
What Is CBP?
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the largest federal law enforcement agency under the Department of Homeland Security. It is responsible for:
• Securing U.S. borders and ports of entry.
• Enforcing immigration and customs laws.
• Regulating international travel and trade.
CBP operates both the U.S. Border Patrol and the Office of Field Operations, and it is the agency behind the CBP Home app now used for processing voluntary departures.
What you need to know about the voluntary departure program:
• Eligibility: Undocumented immigrants without criminal charges or final deportation orders.
• Application Method: CBP Home app (formerly CBP One).
• Incentives: $1,000 stipend and travel aid after verified return.
• Risks: A 10-year ban from reentering the U.S. may apply.
• Advice: Seek legal counsel before applying. n
MANILA — Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian urged the Department of Education (DepEd) to provide alternative learning to students with poor comprehension skills following a Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) survey which found close to 19 million “functionally illiterate” graduates in 2024.
In a dwIZ interview yesterday, Gatchalian reiterated his call for the DepEd to address the issue of “functional illiteracy” or the inability to comprehend despite knowing how to read and write as the PSA defines it.
He said the DepEd should look for these students at schools and place them in the alternative learning system.
They can also be provided with tutors so that they could be assisted in their learning and not graduate with poor comprehension skills, Gatchalian said.
The senator also noticed that the provinces with the greatest number of illiterate children are those with a high incidence of poverty and child malnourishment.
“An underweight and stunted child who is hungry cannot learn properly. Proper nutrition helps in their learning,” Gatchalian said.
Poverty and illiteracy are also linked, Gatchalian said, adding that education remains a key step to getting out of poverty.
Meanwhile, Cagayan de Oro City 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez said the national government can address the problem of functional illiteracy by funding the personnel, infrastructure and equipment requirements of the primary and secondary education sector.
“This means that we have to increase the budget of the DepEd every year, instead of reducing it,” he added.
He decried the decision of Congress to reduce DepEd’s computerization fund this year by at least P10 billion.
He urged President Marcos to augment the fund from government savings and appropriations in the national budget that he is authorized to realign.
Rodriguez proposed that starting with the 2026 annual budget, the President and Congress should increase the DepEd outlay every year. Rodriguez pointed out that there should also be a parallel effort in the private sector to tackle the problem. (With reports with Jose Rodel Clapano)
“There is need for more classrooms, more teacher positions, additional training for teachers, more books, more school equipment and provision of more computers and tablets to public elementary learners and high school students, especially in Mindanao where the PSA has reported high functional illiteracy rates,” Rodriguez said in a statement.
PAGE 7 by Marc Jayson cayabyab Philstar.com
EU OBSERVERS. European Union election monitoring mission chief observer Marta Temido, MEP, holds a press briefing in Makati City on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 on the deployment of 104 short-term watchers who will observe the conduct of the May 12 midterm elections in the Philippines. The observers will be deployed to urban and rural areas across all regions in the country.
PNA photo by Yancy Lim
This file photo shows the Department of Education. STAR / File
Wall Street Journal report, the administration has warned colleges that they could lose access to federal student aid if their default rates remain high.
Schools face sanctions if:
• More than 30% of former students default within three years, or
• Over 40% default in a single cohort year (Source: WSJ)
The policy aims to link school performance to loan repayment outcomes, targeting for-profit institutions and underperforming colleges with large default populations.
Who’s Hit Hardest?
A recent analysis by The Guardian noted that the restart of collections disproportionately impacts low-income borrowers, particularly Black and Latino communities. These groups are more likely to have taken out loans to attend underresourced institutions and face systemic barriers in repayment.
While the Department has not publicly released
updated demographic data, researchers and advocacy groups say that restarting collections may exacerbate economic inequalities without additional borrower protections.
Trump administration policy shift
This marks a significant departure from the previous administration’s strategy, which included broadbased relief such as the now-defunct one-time forgiveness proposal and expanded PSLF (Public Service Loan Forgiveness).
The current administration argues that blanket loan forgiveness exceeded executive authority and emphasizes fiscal discipline, institutional accountability, and enforcement of existing contracts.
Additionally, President Trump recently signed an executive order outlining plans to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, redistributing its responsibilities to agencies like the Small Business Administration and Department of Health and Human Services. While
largely symbolic for now, the order has sparked widespread debate.
What Borrowers Need to Know Now
Borrowers with defaulted loans are strongly urged to verify their loan status and contact their servicer or the Department of Education’s Default Resolution Group immediately. Missing key deadlines could trigger involuntary collections— such as wage garnishment or tax refund seizures— within weeks.
Financial experts warn that these developments may affect national consumer credit trends.
A recent MarketWatch report revealed that even borrowers with strong credit scores are beginning to fall behind, signaling broader repayment challenges and potential ripple effects across the economy.
Resources for borrowers
• Federal Student Aid: https://studentaid.gov
• Default Resolution Group Hotline: 1-800-621-3115
• Loan Rehabilitation Info: Available through your loan servicer or at ed.gov n
Real ID enforcement begins: East Coast travelers urged to check IDs before flying
by AJPress
STARTING May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will enforce the long-delayed REAL ID Act across all U.S. airports, including those serving millions of travelers from New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Passengers
aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or other accepted form of identification to board domestic flights.
This federally mandated policy—originating from post9/11 security reforms—aims to strengthen identification verification and reduce fraud at checkpoints.
New York and New Jersey lag in compliance
While the national compliance rate is estimated at 81%, New Jersey remains one of the least compliant states, with only 17% of residents holding a REAL ID. New York, which also offers Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLsstate.nj.us/)
READY. Philippine News Agency (PNA) reporters pose in their uniforms bearing the slogan “Hatol ng
during a meeting at the PNA office in the Philippine Information Agency building on Visayas Avenue, Quezon City on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. The meeting highlighted the readiness of the PNA reporters to cover the May 12 national and local elections.
ELECTION
Bayan,”
PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler
Malacañang posthumously awards Four Filipina icons with Presidential medal of Merit
MANILA — In a heartfelt ceremony at Malacañang Palace on Saturday, May 4, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. posthumously conferred the Presidential Medal of Merit to four Filipina cultural icons whose work shaped the nation’s artistic identity and touched generations of Filipinos.
Honored at the Heroes Hall were Nora Aunor, Pilita Corrales, Gloria Romero, and Margarita Forés—each recognized for elevating Philippine culture through film, music, and cuisine.
Celebrating timeless legacies
Nora Aunor, the “Superstar” of Philippine cinema, was honored for her body of work that gave voice to the struggles and dreams of ordinary Filipinos. Her critically acclaimed performances in films like Himala and Bona made her one of the most influential artists in the country’s history. She passed away on April 16, 2025, at age 71.
Pilita Corrales, known as “Asia’s Queen of Songs,” was a trailblazer in music and entertainment. Born in Lahug, Cebu City, she recorded more than 135 albums in English, Filipino, Spanish, and Cebuano. Her 1963 hit “A Million Thanks to You” was among the first locally produced songs to achieve international popularity. She also hosted An Evening with Pilita, a landmark television variety show that ran from 1964 to
1972. Corrales passed away peacefully on April 12, 2025. Some reports listed Corrales’s age as 85, but other sources cite 1937 as her birth year, making her 87. The discrepancy stems from unverified records, though her legacy remains undisputed.
Gloria Romero, an enduring presence in Philippine cinema, was best known for her elegant performances across genres—from classic romantic roles to dramatic matriarchal figures. Her career spanned more than seven decades, and she remained active in film and television into her 90s. Romero passed away on January 25, 2025, at age 91.
Margarita Forés, an internationally acclaimed chef, transformed Filipino cuisine with modern interpretations of traditional dishes. Named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016, Forés championed local ingredients, regional flavors, and culinary education. She passed away on February 11, 2025, at age 65.
Words from the president
The Presidential Medal of Merit is one of the highest civilian honors in the Philippines, awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to national identity, culture, and service.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who personally led the conferment ceremony, offered moving remarks:
Sara Duterte says Marcos admin behind assault complaint vs ‘Pulong’
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte said the complaint filed against her brother, Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, was merely a political attack by the Marcos administration.
“Wala namang ibang ginawa ang administrasyon na ito kundi pamumulitika lang at paninira sa mga kalaban nila sa pulitika,” she said in an ambush interview in Zamboanga City on Saturday, May 3.
(This administration has done nothing but play politics and smear their political opponents.)
“To Gloria, to Margarita, to Pilita, to Nora—it seems very little but the best we can do, maraming, maraming salamat po. You live on in every artist who takes the risk, in every child who has fond dreams, and every citizen who wishes to let the world know what it means to be a Filipino.”
He added:
“We are here to honor four outstanding individuals who, though they have passed from our world, continue to shape our art, our cinema, our music, and our culinary landscape.”
Families of the honorees accepted the awards on their behalf, surrounded by government officials, cultural leaders, and members of the artistic community.
A cultural tribute
National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Chairman Victorino Manalo has previously emphasized the importance of honoring Filipino creatives, stating during National Arts Month:
“The creativity of a nation springs forth from the spirit and passion of its people.”
The posthumous awards come at a time of renewed national appreciation for cultural heritage, and the four honorees serve as reminders of how art, music, film, and food shape the country’s identity and spirit.
As the nation mourns their passing, it also celebrates their lives—legacies that continue to inspire, educate, and empower future generations. n
The vice president claimed that when the issue of “blank items” in the 2025 General Appropriations Act surfaced, an impeachment case was filed against her—hinting it was meant to divert attention from controversies hounding the government.
She further alleged that when the sale of P20-per-kilo rice was suspended just a day after its launch, the issue involving Rep. Duterte began circulating online.
“So nakikita ninyo na basta mayroong nangyari nang
dahil sa administrasyon, ang ginagawa nila ay sinisira nila ang kanilang kalaban sa politika para matabunan yung totoong issue ng bayan,” said Duterte.
(So you can see that whenever the administration faces issues, what they do is attack their political opponents to cover up the real issues of the nation.)
In a video making rounds on social media, a man said to be Rep. Duterte can be seen trying to strike another man with an object held in his right hand.
Rep. Duterte’s camp remains silent over the
complaint for grave threats and physical injuries filed against him.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Vice President Duterte ran under the UniTeam banner in the 2022 national elections, but their political alliance has since been soured with Duterte’s resignation from her post as education secretary last year. Speculations about their fallout were further fueled when the vice president said she had instructed someone to kill the president, his wife, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez if she would be assassinated. n
PNP denies role in release of Rep. Duterte video
MANILA — The Philippine National Police on Sunday, May 4 denied that the video supposedly showing Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte in an altercation in a Davao City establishment originated from, or was released by, the PNP or any of its personnel.
“The Philippine National Police (PNP) categorically clarifies that it does not have custody of any CCTV footage allegedly linked to the altercation at a bar in Davao City involving Representative Paolo Duterte. The circulating videos online did not originate from the PNP, nor were they obtained or released by any PNP unit or personnel,” the PNP said in a statement.
“Likewise, the PNP denies any involvement in the dissemination of the affidavit of the complainant, which has also surfaced in public channels,” itbadded.
The document in question was not released by the police,
and the PNP has no official role in its circulation.”
It also said that they respect the legal process and noted that the case has already been formally filed before the Department of Justice.
Thus, any questions or clarifications regarding the matter should be addressed to the department.
“In line with its mandate, the PNP remains ready to extend assistance or coordination when officially requested by competent authorities.
The PNP also urged the
public to exercise caution and responsibility in sharing unverified information online, especially when such materials are not validated or officially sanctioned.
In a video making rounds on social media, a man said to be Rep. Duterte can be seen trying to strike another man with an object held in his right hand.
Vice President Sara Duterte, however, called the complaint filed against her brother merely a political attack by the Marcos administration. n
Philippine National Police headquarters in Camp Crame
Davao City 1st District Paolo Duterte
by luisa cabaTo Inquirer.net
by luisa cabaTo Inquirer.net
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos (center) pose with the families and representatives of the four posthumous awardees, who accepted the honors on their behalf, alongside government officials, cultural leaders, and members of the artistic community during the conferment of the Presidential Medal of Merit at Malacañang Palace. All pictures are from President Bongbong Marcos’ social media account
Fil-Ams shine brightly with historic nods for Drama League, Tony Awards
Nicole Scherzinger is nominated for both awards for her acclaimed performance in 'Sunset Boulevard'
by Elton lugay Inquirer.net
NEW YORK CITY — Filipino American talent is shining brightly this awards season. From being featured in Time magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people in the world to earning a spot on Gold House’s A100 list of influential Asian Americans, Fil-Ams continue to make waves.
Several artists of Filipino lineage have also received nominations for the Drama League and Tony Awards.
Among them, Nicole Scherzinger, a pop singer turned Broadway star, stands out for her inclusion in all four prestigious groups.
Recently, the Filipino American powerhouse was named to Time Magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people globally and to Gold House’s A100 list of impactful Asian Pacific leaders.
She is also a leading nominee for both the Drama League and Tony Awards for her acclaimed performance in “Sunset Boulevard.”
Additionally, she is set to perform solo shows at Carnegie Hall in New York and Disney Hall in Los Angeles this fall – marking milestones in her career.
The former Pussycat Doll and Laurence Olivier Award winner has received widespread praise for her portrayal of Norma Desmond, earning a Tony nomination for Best Actress. Her performance, which received a six-minute standing ovation, has been lauded for its emotional depth and power, establishing her as a major Broadway talent.
Beyond her acting achievements, Scherzinger has recently opened up about her struggles with fame and mental health, sharing her journey toward embracing her authentic self. She often credits her resilient lineage – strong women from Hawaii and Kentucky – for her confidence and authenticity.
At age 46, she confidently celebrates her natural beauty, challenging industry standards and embracing aging gracefully.
“Part of my superpower
is where I come from,” she told People magazine. “I bring my ancestors with me on that stage every night.”
She also described her Broadway debut as a lifelong dream fulfilled. “I finally get to share all of me and who I truly am with this role. That’s the ultimate success.”
Scherzinger reflects on her journey, telling People that “where I come from is part of my superpower. I carry my ancestors with me every time I step on stage.”
She added, “Growing up, I often felt like I didn’t fit in, but now I realize that those differences make me unique and strong.”
In celebration of theatrical excellence, other Filipino American performers are also being recognized this year.
Broadway legend Lea Salonga is among the recipients of the Drama League’s Distinguished Performance Award.
She is being honored for her work in Stephen Sondheim’s “Old Friends.”
Fellow Drama League nominees include
Lea Salonga
from Instagram/@msleasalonga
Scherzinger, Tatianna Córdoba (“Real Women Have Curves”) and Darren Criss (“Maybe Happy Ending”).
Established in 1922, the Drama League Awards are the oldest theatrical honors in America and are uniquely voted on by the entire theater community, reflecting broad industry support.
The awards will be held May 16 at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City.
Meanwhile, this year, five
Filipinos received historic Tony Award nominations.
Besides Scherzinger and Criss, other nominees include Conrad Ricamora, Clint Ramos, and Marco Paguia, announced on May 1 in New York.
Criss is nominated for his lead role in “Maybe Happy Ending,” which received 10 nominations, including Best Musical.
Like Scherzinger, this is his first Tony nomination.
He expressed gratitude and excitement in an interview with Playbill. “Since day one, Maybe Happy Ending has been an ongoing miracle. I’m overwhelmed with joy and grateful to be part of such a talented team,” he said.
The former Glee star’s character in the musical, set in near-future Seoul, explores themes of companionship, love and the human experience amid technological reliance, as two outdated HelperBots, Oliver and Claire, navigate emotions like love and friendship.
Ricamora, known for roles in “How to Get Away with Murder” and “The King and I,” also earned his first Tony nomination for his role in “Oh, Mary!,” a dark comedy
about unrequited yearning and suppressed desires.
The actor who played Ninoy Aquino in “Here Lies Love” shared on social media, “It hasn’t really sunk in yet. I’ve always dreamed of working in theater and storytelling, and this recognition means the world to me.”
A relatively lesserknown Filipino musician, Paguia gained recognition as a nominee for Best Orchestrations for Buena Vista Social Club. A music arranger, orchestrator, conductor and pianist, he expressed his gratitude: “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude. It’s thrilling to be nominated alongside such talented artists. I’m honored to share the legacy of Cuban music with audiences every night.”
Finally, Cebu-born Ramos, a Tony winner and this year’s nominee for his work on “Maybe Happy Ending,” is no stranger to the Tonys.
This is his seventh nomination. He expressed gratitude and dedicated his nomination “to the entire company of ‘Maybe Happy Ending.’ May we all live in this musical’s themes of love and what it truly means to be human.”
Photo
Clint Ramos Photo from Instagram/@clintramos
Marco Paguia Photo from Instagram/@mrpagoo Conrad Ricamora Photo from Instagram/@conradricamora
Nicole Scherzinger Photo from Instagram/@nicolescherzinger
