082225 -New York and New Jersey Edition

Trump’s War on MailIn Ballots Meets the Limits of Law

WASHINGTON— Standing before cameras on August 18, President Donald J. Trump vowed to “end mail-in ballots and get rid of these machines” before the 2026 midterms. The promise drew cheers from supporters, but within hours constitutional lawyers and election officials reminded the nation that a president cannot simply outlaw mail voting with the stroke of a pen.

The announcement did not come in isolation. Back in March, Trump signed Executive Order 14248, formally titled Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections. The order seeks to tighten the rules of the game—requiring proof of citizenship on federal registration forms, banning ballots that arrive after Election Day, and forcing a new round of certifications for voting machines. Even then, parts of the order were almost immediately blocked by federal courts.

The legal fight

The Constitution grants states the power to run their own elections, with Congress holding authority to set nationwide rules

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Senate Pushes Random Drug Testing After Marijuana Allegation; Padilla’s Annual Testing Bill Faces Constitutional Hurdles

by AJPress

with

senators, their staff, and employees.

Sotto’s Letter and Escudero’s Response

Senate Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III formally wrote Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero urging the immediate enforcement of mandatory random drug testing. Sotto recalled that during his term as Senate President in the

Senate Widens Flood-Control Graft

Inquiry; COA Opens Fraud Audit as DPWH Confirms “Ghost Projects”

by AJPress

MANILA — The Senate’s Blue Ribbon Committee has intensified its probe into alleged anomalies in floodcontrol projects across the country, issuing subpoenas to contractors that failed to attend its opening hearing, while the Commission on Audit (COA) confirmed that a special fraud audit in Bulacan is already

18th Congress, random testing for Senate officials and employees was already carried out, and he argued it should be reinstated to safeguard institutional integrity. Escudero confirmed that preparations are underway for the program in the 20th

U.S. Push to Extradite Philippine Televangelist Puts Manila in a Bind

by AJPress

MANILA — The United States has formally asked the Philippine government to extradite Apollo Carreon Quiboloy, a 75-year-old televangelist indicted on trafficking and fraud charges in California, Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez confirmed this week.

Romualdez told Inquirer.net that the extradition documents were transmitted in June to the Department of Justice in Manila. He said U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson is expected to meet with Philippine Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla soon to discuss the matter.

The DOJ said it has no record of the

PAGE 2 underway.

The inquiry follows disclosures by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) that some projects in Bulacan appear to be nonexistent. DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan told senators his office has been validating reports from the field, admitting: “In all honesty… I think so,” when asked if ghost projects exist.

Supreme Court affirms acquittal of Ampatuan Kin in Maguindanao massacre case

Clan’s legacy and whereabouts revisited

by AJPress

lives, including 32 journalists. In a ruling promulgated on January 27, 2025 and released publicly this week, the Court’s First Division stressed that mere agreement with a criminal plan absent an overt act is not enough to establish conspiracy. The justices further emphasized that the constitutional protection

MANILA – The Supreme Court has affirmed the acquittal of Datu Akmad “Tato” Ampatuan Sr., a son-in-law of the late clan patriarch Andal Ampatuan Sr., in connection with the 2009 Maguindanao massacre, the Philippines’ deadliest electionrelated attack that claimed 58 u PAGE 2

Tulfo: Anti-dynasty bills face uphill battle as many lawmakers are relatives

by AJPress

MANILA — Senator Erwin Tulfo on Tuesday said legislation against political dynasties will remain difficult to pass because many lawmakers in Congress are themselves members of political families.

Tulfo made the remarks during the August 19 hearing of the Senate Committee on Electoral Reforms and People’s Participation. He noted that while the 1987 Constitution prohibits political dynasties, it requires Congress to pass

Senator Raffy Tulfo submits his urine sample for drug testing to a Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency staff at his office in Pasay City on Tuesday (Aug. 19, 2025). Tulfo said any of his staff members who will test positive will be fired immediately. (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

MANILA — Calls for stricter drug testing in the Senate gained traction this week following reports of alleged marijuana use inside the chamber,

leaders rallying behind mandatory random testing for

Senate Pushes Random...

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Congress. He explained that the Senate entered into a partnership with the East Avenue Medical Center in March 2025 to administer tests, and the rollout will proceed once employee rosters are finalized.

Senators Undergo Tests

The proposal immediately drew support:

• Sen. Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri announced on August 16 that his entire office would undergo testing.

On August 18, he and 35 staff members completed urine tests for marijuana, methamphetamine, ecstasy, opium, and cocaine.

• Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva reiterated his backing of drug-testing initiatives, saying he was ready to be tested.

• Sen. Raffy Tulfo said his staff would also participate. He added that anyone in his office who tests positive would be removed, and he himself would resign if found positive.

These pledges represent a rare bipartisan agreement on a sensitive internal issue.

Alleged Marijuana Use Sparks Debate

The push followed an incident report from the Office of the Sergeant-atArms (OSAA) citing alleged

marijuana use on the fifth floor of the Senate building. The report identified actress Nadia Montenegro, then a staff member of Sen. Robin Padilla. Montenegro denied the allegation, stating she only had a vape in her possession. She subsequently resigned, a move confirmed by Padilla’s office. The Senate said the matter remains under review.

Padilla’s Separate Measure Parallel to the Senate’s institutional plan, Sen. Robinhood “Robin” Padilla filed Senate Bill No. 1200, the Drug-Free Government Act, seeking to impose annual mandatory drug tests on all elected and appointed officials, including the President. The bill prescribes hair-follicle testing as the initial method, with urine confirmation for positive cases. It also proposes voluntary random testing for electoral candidates within 90 days of election day. Public officials who test positive would face administrative sanctions under existing laws.

Palace Flags Constitutional Objection

Malacañang quickly warned that Padilla’s proposal could be unconstitutional. Palace

officials cited the 2008 Supreme Court decision in Social Justice Society v. Dangerous Drugs Board, which struck down mandatory drug tests for political candidates and criminally accused persons as a violation of the right to privacy, while allowing random workplace testing for employees and students.

Padilla’s camp countered that the ruling should be interpreted more carefully and maintained that the Senate should debate the measure fully before drawing conclusions.

Constitutional Line

The Senate’s planned mandatory random testing for its officials and staff aligns with the 2008 ruling, which permits suspicionless random testing in workplaces. Padilla’s bill, however, which seeks universal annual testing for all public officials, would push against constitutional limits that the Supreme Court has already defined.

As the Senate prepares to implement its internal program, the broader policy question remains unresolved: how far can Congress extend drug testing for public officials without infringing on protected rights? n

U.S. Push to Extradite Philippine...

documents on file. DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano added that, under Philippine law, pending domestic criminal cases take precedence over extradition. Quiboloy has been detained in the Philippines since 2024 on separate humantrafficking charges.

A Preacher With Political Reach

Quiboloy is the founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), a Davao City based religious group that claims millions of followers worldwide. He has long exerted political influence, including ties to former president Rodrigo Duterte, a fellow Davaoeño.

On Nov. 18, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that a federal grand jury in the Central District of California had issued a superseding indictment against Quiboloy and several associates. The indictment alleges:

• Sex trafficking of women and minors, claiming victims were coerced into sexual acts under threats of spiritual condemnation.

and falsified paperwork.

The FBI’s wanted notice, published in 2022, added that Quiboloy’s organization was accused of a labortrafficking scheme, allegedly bringing followers to the United States on fraudulent visas and compelling them to solicit donations under exploitative conditions.

Quiboloy has denied all allegations, calling them politically motivated. His church continues to refer to him as the “Appointed Son of God.”

Arrest and Trial in the Philippines

Philippine authorities arrested Quiboloy in September 2024 in Davao City after multiple warrants

were issued in qualified trafficking cases.

On July 20, 2025, the Pasig City Regional Trial Court denied his petitions for bail, citing the seriousness of the charges. He has since remained in detention while trials move forward.

These pending cases present a legal barrier to extradition. “Pending cases here must first be resolved,” Clavano said. He noted that Philippine courts may act with urgency if delaying a valid request would undermine treaty obligations.

Treaty Commitments and Diplomatic Stakes

The Philippines and the United States signed an extradition treaty in 1994,

which took effect in 1996. The treaty obliges both governments to surrender individuals facing serious charges, but it also recognizes that domestic legal proceedings may take precedence.

The Quiboloy case is emerging as a diplomatic test of that balance at a time when Washington and Manila are deepening security and economic ties.

Timeline of Quiboloy’s Legal Troubles

• Nov. 18, 2021 — U.S. DOJ announces superseding indictment in California.

• Feb. 2022 — FBI lists Quiboloy on its wanted page for trafficking allegations.

Supreme Court affirms acquittal...

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against double jeopardy makes an acquittal final and unassailable, unless issued with grave abuse of discretion. The decision leaves intact the earlier acquittals issued by the Quezon City Regional Trial Court in 2019 and affirmed by the Court of Appeals in 2021.

The 2009 Massacre

On November 23, 2009, a convoy of journalists, lawyers, and family members of thenBuluan Vice Mayor Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu was ambushed in Ampatuan town, Maguindanao, while traveling to file his gubernatorial candidacy. Fifty-eight people were killed, among them 32 journalists, making it the single deadliest attack on media workers in history.

In the immediate aftermath, then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo placed Maguindanao under a state of emergencyand briefly declared martial law from December 4 to 12, 2009, as government forces moved against the powerful clan.

Trial and Partial Justice

the case of journalist Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay, the court acquitted all accused because his body was never recovered.

As of late 2024, appeals of the 2019 convictions remain pending at the Court of Appeals, prompting victims’ families and press-freedom advocates to describe the outcome as “partial justice.”

Where Are the Ampatuans Now?

• Andal Ampatuan Sr. –The clan patriarch died on July 17, 2015 while on trial, after suffering a heart attack and falling into a coma.

• Andal “Unsay” Ampatuan Jr. – Convicted in 2019 of 57 counts of murder and sentenced to reclusión perpetua without parole; he is currently detained at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP). In November 2023, he was also convicted on 21 counts of graft, adding up to 210 years of imprisonment, though these run alongside his existing life sentences.

were issued in 2024 and reported upheld in 2025, including a ruling imposing reclusión perpetua.

• Datu Akmad “Tato” Ampatuan Sr. – Acquitted by the RTC in 2019; his acquittal was affirmed by the Court of Appeals in 2021 and by the Supreme Court in 2025.

• Next Generation – The Ampatuan family continues to hold elective office in Maguindanao. As of mid2025, official municipal proclamations list Prince Sufri Norabbie M. Ampatuan as Mayor of Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, Bai Bongbong M. Ampatuan as Vice Mayor, and Bai Nor-Aila Kristina M. Ampatuan-Samama as a municipal councilor.

Significance of the 2025 Ruling

The Supreme Court’s decision clarifies two points of law:

• Bulk cash smuggling, involving undeclared movement of money from the United States to the Philippines.

• Fraud and immigration document offenses, tied to alleged misuse of U.S. visas

After a marathon decadelong trial at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig, the Quezon City RTC (Branch 221) on December 19, 2019 handed down convictions against Andal “Unsay” Ampatuan Jr., Zaldy Ampatuan, and 26 others, sentencing them to reclusión perpetua without parole for 57 counts of murder.

The court also acquitted several accused, including Datu Akmad “Tato” Ampatuan Sr. and Datu Sajid Islam Ampatuan, for lack of proof beyond reasonable doubt. In

• Zaldy Ampatuan –Convicted alongside Unsay in 2019 and sentenced to reclusión perpetua; he is likewise serving his sentence at the NBP.

• Datu Sajid Islam Ampatuan – Acquitted in the massacre case, but subsequently convicted in multiple Sandiganbayan rulings between 2019 and 2025 for graft, malversation, and falsification of public documents tied to what court filings described as “ghost projects.” In 2023, the Sandiganbayan affirmed arrest orders after he failed to surrender; further convictions

• Conspiracy doctrine –Criminal liability cannot be based on acquiescence or words of approval alone; an overt act in furtherance of the crime is required.

• Finality of acquittal – A judgment of acquittal, once final, cannot be overturned due to the safeguard against double jeopardy. Families of the 58 victims have long maintained that the struggle for full accountability continues, given that appeals remain pending. Separately, recent Sandiganbayan convictions in graft cases involving members of the clan underscore how its influence in Maguindanao politics and governance remains under public scrutiny. n

Televangelist Apollo Quiboloy Inquirer.net file photo

USCIS Adds ‘Anti-Americanism’ to Immigration Screening in Discretionary Cases

by AJPress

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

U.S. immigration authorities have introduced a new layer of scrutiny for certain applicants, directing officers to treat evidence of “anti-American” activity as a heavily negative factor when deciding whether to grant immigration benefits.

On August 19, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced it has updated its Policy Manual to make “anti-American” ideologies or conduct an “overwhelmingly negative” factor in cases that require the agency to exercise discretion.

The guidance took effect immediately and applies to both pending and new applications.

What the policy covers

The update applies to a wide range of immigration requests that require discretionary judgment. These include applications for adjustment of status, or green cards, as well as requests to extend or change certain nonimmigrant visas, such as F and M student visas. It also covers specific categories of employment authorization under federal regulations, national interest waivers for employmentbased petitions, and certain EB-5

immigrant investor cases. In addition, USCIS said the policy will be applied in its expanded social media vetting, where officers will review online activity for signs of what the agency describes as “anti-American” conduct.

Legal basis

The agency referenced Section 313(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), a statute in place for decades that bars naturalization for individuals who advocate the overthrow of the U.S. government, support totalitarian forms of rule, or are affiliated with groups that teach such doctrines. The policy does not create a new law but guides officers in how to weigh such activity when exercising discretion.

Naturalization review

Separately,onAugust15,2025, USCIS issued a memorandum on naturalization cases, requiring a more “rigorous, holistic, and comprehensive” evaluation of good moral character. While statutory bars remain unchanged, this directive signaled closer scrutiny of applicants’ conduct and affiliations during the citizenship process.

Implications

Under the new guidance,

applicants who have promoted or supported anti-American views, including on social media, may face denials even if they otherwise meet the baseline eligibility requirements for a benefit. USCIS emphasized that immigration benefits are “a privilege, not a right.”

Reactions

Immigration lawyers and advocates note that while the policy draws on existing law, the term “anti-Americanism” is not precisely defined in the manual. Critics warn this could lead to subjective interpretations and raise free-speech concerns. Supporters argue the update strengthens national security by ensuring individuals hostile to U.S. values cannot gain discretionary immigration relief. What this means going forward

Immigrants seeking to live, work, or invest in the United States now face explicit “antiAmericanism” screening in USCIS discretionary adjudications. The directive does not alter statutory grounds of eligibility but signals a significant tightening of administrative vetting, with its scope, especially in expanded social media monitoring, still unfolding as officers implement the policy. n

Trump’s War on Mail-In Ballots Meets...

by law. No such power is given to the presidency. That distinction has already shaped the fate of Trump’s order.

A federal judge in Washington, D.C., temporarily stopped the Election Assistance Commission from enforcing proof-of-citizenship requirements. Meanwhile, in Mississippi, the Fifth Circuit struck down the state’s practice of counting ballots that arrived up to five days after Election Day, ruling it violated federal law. The ruling could ripple outward, but it does not automatically bind the rest of the country.

Trump’s claims and the record

At rallies and in interviews, Trump has called mail-in ballots a gateway to fraud and even suggested that the United States stands alone in using them. Both assertions are unsupported. Federal investigators under his own administration in 2020 found

no widespread fraud, and academic studies since then have shown that mail voting does not give either political party an advantage. Around the world, democracies from Germany to Australia routinely allow citizens to vote by post.

The president has also invoked former President Jimmy Carter, suggesting Carter opposed mail voting. In truth, Carter endorsed expanding the practice in 2020, calling it essential during the pandemic. And in a twist often noted by critics, Trump himself has used mailin voting in Florida multiple times.

Politics within the GOP

Even as Trump rails against the practice, the Republican National Committee has spent years urging its voters to embrace it through campaigns like Bank Your Vote and Swamp the Vote USA. Party strategists worry that continued attacks from the top could undercut those

Tulfo: Anti-dynasty bills face uphill...

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an enabling law to define and enforce the ban. To date, no nationwide measure has been enacted.

A constitutional gap

Article II, Section 26 of the Constitution states: “The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.” The Supreme Court has ruled that the clause is non-self-executing, meaning it cannot be enforced without legislation from Congress.

Pending bills in the Senate

At least three anti-dynasty bills are currently filed:

• Senate Bill No. 18 by Senator Robinhood Padilla

• Senate Bill No. 35 by Senator Panfilo Lacson

• Senate Bill No. 285 by Senator Francis Pangilinan

Each proposal outlines restrictions on the relatives of incumbent officials but all remain at the committee stage.

There are, however, limited anti-dynasty rules already in place. The Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act

of 2016disqualifies SK candidates related within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity to sitting officials. The Bangsamoro Electoral Code also bars close relatives from running in the same territory.

Commission on Elections

Chair George Garcia told senators this week that a second-degree restriction could serve as a workable national benchmark.

Dynasties dominate public office

Independent studies support Tulfo’s claim that many elected officials belong to dynasties:

• About 70 percent of House members have dynastic ties, according to earlier congressional analyses.

• A 2024 Philippine Center

for Investigative Journalism audit found 87 percent of provincial governors came from political families.

• Researchers describe the growth of “fat dynasties,” where multiple relatives hold positions at the same time. This dominance underscores the political challenge: passing an antidynasty law would require many legislators to limit their own families’ participation in elections.

Tulfo’s position

Tulfo has previously stated he would resign if an antidynasty law were passed and would call on his relatives in office to do the same. His latest remarks echo his consistent view that such legislation is unlikely to prosper without broad political will. n

efforts. In 2024, nearly a third of American voters cast ballots by mail, an enduring share that no campaign can afford to ignore.

A broader struggle over trust

The clash over mail-in voting is not just a legal or partisan battle; it has become a test of confidence in democracy itself. Supporters see Trump’s executive order as a safeguard, while critics view it as an overreach that risks suppressing legitimate votes. The courts will likely have the final say on how far the White House can go, but the larger question, whether voters trust the process, may be harder to settle.

For now, Trump’s vow to end mail voting stands more as political rallying cry than enforceable law. The mechanics of American elections remain, as they have since the nation’s founding, in the hands of the states and, ultimately, the courts that referee disputes. n

Senator Erwin Tulfo | Photo from Facebook/@erwintulforeal

32 million Filipinos are into online gambling

by JOHN PATRICK MAGNO RANARA Philstar.com

The Senate expressed alarm after it found that 32 million Filipinos are engaging in online gambling.

In a hearing conducted by the Senate Committee on Games and Amusements, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian shared that there are 32.117 million "e-game players" from January to May 2025.

The figure, which was gathered from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, was a 291% increase from 8.2 million players in 2024 and amounted to one-third of the Philippine population.

Senate Widens Flood-Control Graft Inquiry...

Palace Portal Flags Irregularities

The probe began after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. launched the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” portal on Aug. 11, which allows citizens to report suspected irregularities in flood-control projects. Marcos said that of the P545 billion in floodmitigation funds from 2022 to 2025, around P100 billion, or 20 percent, went to just 15 contractors.

The President also flagged thousands of projects with vague descriptions and several sets priced at exactly the same contract amounts, calling the patterns “highly questionable.” Within three days of launch, the portal logged more than 1,100 public reports.

Senate Hearings and Contractor Subpoenas

At the first Blue Ribbon hearing on Aug. 19, only seven of the 15 contractors identified by Malacañang appeared. Committee chair Sen. Rodante Marcoleta ordered subpoenas for the rest.

One of the firms placed under scrutiny is Wawao Builders, which DPWH records show was awarded projects worth P5.971 billion in Bulacan since 2022, out of over P9 billion nationwide. Lawmakers said some of these projects may be “ghosts” or substandard, though this remains subject to validation by DPWH and COA.

COA Fraud Audit in Bulacan

On Aug. 19, COA confirmed that its Fraud Audit Office had begun examining Bulacan flood-control projects for the 2022–2025 period. COA Chair Gamaliel Cordoba said investigators had retrieved “critical documents” and will determine whether projects exist, comply with procurement rules, and match fund releases. Findings could later be referred to the Office of the Ombudsman or the Department of Justice for prosecution.

Lawmakers Warn of Systemic Leakages Senator Panfilo Lacson cautioned that systemic “passthrough” arrangements have long plagued public works contracting, with as much as 60 percent of budgets allegedly siphoned off before implementation. He said only about 40 percent of project funds are realized on the ground. These statements reflect his personal assessment in the Senate and have yet to be independently verified.

Other Red Flags and Local Responses

Scrutiny has also widened to other contractors. Reports revealed that MG Samidan Construction and Development Corp., despite a paid-up capital of only P250,000, was awarded P5.02 billion worth of projects nationwide. Many of these contracts carried identical cost figures, which DPWH officials attributed to standard estimates, though

senators called the pattern a red flag.

Meanwhile, some local governments continue to advance flood-control works. In Bukidnon, DPWH said construction of a P95.5 million river dike and drainage system in Malaybalay City is being fasttracked under a presidential directive to reinforce resilient infrastructure.

As both the Senate and COA move forward, the outcome of the Bulacan audit is expected to determine the breadth of the investigation. Subpoenaed contractors will be called to explain their participation, while lawmakers weigh the possibility of reforms to close procurement loopholes.

If evidence substantiates the claims of ghost or overpriced projects, cases could be referred to the Ombudsman or the Department of Justice. For now, the floodcontrol program, one of the government’s largest budget items, faces a level of public and institutional scrutiny unprecedented in recent years.

Editorial and Legal Note

: This report is based on official Senate proceedings, COA statements, DPWH disclosures, and government data. Allegations of ghost projects and graft are attributed to named officials and remain under investigation.Nowrongdoing is stated as proven unless established by judicial or regulatory findings. n

The Philippine Statistics Authority previously reported that the country's population has reached 112.73 million as of July 2024.

The spike in players started during the COVID-19 pandemic. There were 482,000 recorded in 2020, 767,000 in 2021, 1.447 million in 2022, and 2.445 million in 2023.

Gatchalian lamented that the numbers could "easily jump" to 60 million if no measures are taken.

He suggested that e-wallet platforms should be delinked from online gambling sites or be banned entirely from being used to place bets.

"It is simple: Let us not allow banks and e-wallets to be linked to online gambling, whether illegal or legal. Our request is to completely delink. Let us not wait for the number to rise to 60 million Filipino gamblers," he said.

However, PAGCOR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Alejandro Tengco expressed misgivings on a total ban on online gambling, explaining that the online gambling industry led to P60 billion in revenues due

to license fees and P32 million income for the agency in 2025. This allowed them to contribute P23.6 billion for corporate social responsibility and P7.59 billion for universal health care.

"To be honest with you, we really are trying to catch up with this trajectory of exponential growth in online gambling. This hearing is also a good opportunity for Pagcor to see and analyze what can still be done to better regulate this sector, so that our citizens who patronize online gambling will not be addicted," Tengco said.

While he acknowledged complaints about addiction from family members, he claimed that the agency has not received reports of suicide due to the inability to pay debts.

Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri, however, refuted Tengco's claim. He presented a Bukidnon native named Arsenia Concha, whose son committed suicide after incurring online gambling debt by playing scatter. The

politician noted how the link from the digital wallet easily led him to engage in online gambling.

"What we ultimately want is to delink, that they cannot use digital wallets to pay online gambling platforms. Right now, you have taken gambling home, to our children and parents, because of the e-wallets. In the absence of these e-wallets, the number of online gamblers would not be as high as 32 million Filipinos," Zubiri said.

On Thursday, Aug. 14, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has given e-wallet platforms 48 hours to unlink from online gambling sites.

It's expected that the links will no longer be available by Sunday morning, according to BSP Deputy Governor Mamerto Tangonan.

As for violators, Tangonan said, "We will also sanction the concerned (e-wallet platforms)." (with reports from Marc Jayson Cayabyab) n

U.S. Push to Extradite Philippine...

• Sept. 2024 — Arrested in Davao City after warrants issued in local trafficking cases.

• July 20, 2025 — Pasig court denies bail petitions.

• June 2025 — U.S. transmits extradition papers to Manila, according to Romualdez.

• Aug. 20, 2025 — Romualdez confirms the U.S. request publicly, DOJ says it has no record on file.

A Case That Tests Alliances

For now, Quiboloy remains in detention in the Philippines. The extradition request is more than a matter of legal procedure, it is a test of how the Philippines balances sovereignty with treaty obligations to its oldest defense partner.

Whether he is tried first in Manila or in Los Angeles, the case highlights how a preacher who once

commanded vast religious and political loyalty now finds himself at the center of a judicial and diplomatic reckoning. The outcome will be closely watched in both capitals.

Allegations outlined in U.S. indictments and FBI notices remain unproven in court. Apollo Quiboloy is presumed innocent until proven guilty in either U.S. or Philippine judicial proceedings. n

NINOY DAY. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines leaves flowers at the Ninoy Aquino statue at EDSA People Power monument in Quezon City on Thursday (Aug. 21, 2025). It is the 42nd death anniversary of the senator. (PNA photo by Joan Bondoc)

32 million Filipinos are into online gambling

FeAtures oPinion

South China Sea Tensions Test

Manila’s Defense Diplomacy

Can the Philippines rely on defense diplomacy to safeguard its people and sovereignty, without escalating tensions in the region?

The South China Sea has long been a crucible of power politics, where law, geography, and geopolitics intersect. For the Philippines, it is also a test of whether defense diplomacy, defined as the use of military partnerships, dialogues, and cooperative measures, can safeguard sovereignty without pushing the country closer to confrontation.

Editorial

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent remarks on Taiwan highlight this challenge. While in India, he said the Philippines could not remain uninvolved if conflict erupted, citing the duty to protect Filipino nationals there. China’s Foreign Ministry criticized the comments as “playing with fire.” Marcos later clarified that his remarks had been misinterpreted and framed them as a humanitarian responsibility, noting the presence of more than 100,000 Filipinos in Taiwan.

Every time a scandal erupts, a pothole deepens, or a karaoke machine drowns out a barangay meeting, someone inevitably resurrects Manuel Quezon’s most quoted line: “I prefer a government run like hell by Filipinos to a government run like heaven by Americans.”

Cue the cackling chorus:

The risks extend beyond rhetoric. Video released by the Philippine Coast Guard shows a China Coast Guard vessel and a Chinese navy destroyer colliding while maneuvering near a Philippine patrol boat close to Scarborough Shoal. The incident was widely reported and underscored the hazards of maritime encounters in contested waters. Shortly afterward, the United States deployed two warships near the shoal, which American officials described as consistent with maritime safety operations. These developments underline how quickly such situations can escalate.

No, Quezon Didn’t Wish for Hell—He Wished for Filipinos Who Could Change It

“Well, Quezon got his wish!” But let’s be clear—that’s not wit. That’s historical malpractice.

What Quezon actually said was: “I prefer a government run like hell by Filipinos to a government run like heaven by Americans. Because, however bad a Filipino government might be, we can always

change it.”

That second sentence isn’t a footnote—it’s the thesis. Quezon wasn’t romanticizing dysfunction. He was affirming democracy.

He was saying, in essence, what Gandhi would echo a decade later after the Amritsar Massacre: “Mr. Kinnoch, I beg

International law supports the Philippines. The 2016 arbitral tribunal convened under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

The following book review, submitted by Enrique de la Cruz, Ph.D., offers both an academic and personal reflection on Beyond the White Church: Disrupting Racism, Rebuilding Faith Community (Sacra Sage, 2025) by Rev. Doug Cunningham. In his review, Dr. de la Cruz positions the book not only as a memoir of faith and love but also as a critical exploration of race,

LAGMAY ORIEL Publisher & Chairman of the Board

(UNCLOS) rejected China’s expansive nine-dash line claim and affirmed Manila’s rights within

Beyond the White Church: Disrupting Racism, Rebuilding Faith Community (Sacra Sage, 2025) by Doug Cunningham

privilege, and the ongoing struggle for justice within the church.

Beyond the White Church is about Doug Cunningham’s personal and faith-inspired journey as an ordained United Methodist Church pastor and missionary. It begins as a love story and continues on as a devotional memoir to the principles of justice, diversity, and the author’s struggles against white supremacy and white privilege within a white church.

The love story begins when Cunningham, a 2nd-year student at Pacific School of Religion (PSR), meets a new student from the Philippines, Rebecca, a Deaconess. At PSR, as a Caucasian person of faith, Cunningham recounts his journey from being initially unaware of his privileged status as a white person to his growing awareness of social justice issues. First, through his exposure to ideas by professors

Commentary

eliseo Art silvA

Commentary

enrique de lA Cruz, Ph.d

South China Sea Tensions Test...

PAGE 6

its exclusive economic zone. Beijing does not accept the ruling, but the award is final and legally binding under UNCLOS. Legal victories alone, however, do not enforce themselves, which makes presence, preparedness, and partnerships strategically significant.

Here, the concept of statecraft is central. Statecraft is the art of managing national interests through diplomacy, defense, economics, and law. For the Philippines, this means invoking the arbitral award to anchor sovereignty, maintaining economic ties with China, working with allies for defense, and engaging ASEAN to reduce tensions. Statecraft is not only about hard power; it is also about balance, timing, and foresight.

Within this broader statecraft, defense diplomacy is a vital tool. Defense diplomacy refers to the use of military relationships as a form of prevention rather than aggression. It can include joint exercises, training exchanges, intelligence-sharing, and the

creation of crisis hotlines at sea. Its purpose is to build trust with partners, deter aggression, and keep communication channels open during emergencies.

Other states have adopted this approach. During the Cold War, smaller European countries relied on NATO not to provoke conflict but to avoid isolation. In Southeast Asia, Singapore developed a wide network of security ties to balance great powers while retaining flexibility. For the Philippines, defense diplomacy must function as both shield and signal: demonstrating resolve in protecting sovereignty while affirming intent to preserve regional stability.

Every step involves trade-offs. Stronger alliances may deter threats but risk being perceived as containment. Defending fishing rights asserts sovereignty but increases the chance of confrontation. Security cooperation inevitably intersects with economic dependence on China.

The questions before Manila are pressing. How

Beyond the White Church:...

BABe romuAldez

Despite the global economic uncertainty brought about by the imposition of tariffs by the United States – which many countries are still trying to figure out how to navigate similar to what we are doing – I, like many who have been in business, believe that there is always a silver lining in any difficult or challenging situation.

This positive perspective was bolstered during the four-day US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) Business Mission to the Philippines led by Ambassador Ted Osius. USABC brought their largest ever business delegation composed of some of the biggest companies in the United States, engaging with the administration’s economic team, senior officials across key government agencies, legislators, business leaders and other major stakeholders.

During the USABC engagement with the Department of Foreign Affairs where I joined Secretary Tess Lazaro and US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson as resource persons, Ambassador Osius reiterated the group’s continuing confidence in the Philippines’ growth story, and shared the excitement of US companies

far should the Philippines go in defending navigation and fishing rights? What balance of alliances and dialogue best secures long-term interests? Can Taiwan contingency planning be explained as humanitarian necessity rather than provocation? Where is the line between deterrence that protects and deterrence that provokes?

Geography denies the Philippines the luxury of detachment. History shows, however, that smaller states can endure and even thrive by combining legal clarity, strong alliances, and pragmatic diplomacy. Defense diplomacy, carefully practiced as part of broader statecraft, may yet offer Manila a narrow but necessary path: to assert sovereignty without isolation, to deter without escalation, and to protect its people in turbulent waters.

Philippine statecraft will be judged not by extremes, but by its capacity to protect sovereignty while preventing conflict. (AJPress) n

In business, there’s always a silver lining

about opportunities and the possibilities that exist in the Philippines on various sectors that include technology, defense, artificial intelligence, food and agriculture, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure and digitalization.

“Our companies are committed. They’re here because they believe in the future of the Philippines. They’re investing because they believe that the Philippines is headed towards the right direction,” Ambassador Osius said, adding that Fortune 500 companies have been investing in the Philippines for a long time because they found that it was “the most hospitable place to get going.”

Ambassador Osius also cited government reforms such as the “ease of doing business” that he noted has “improved remarkably,” adding that “the government’s commitment to resolving problems is really unmatched in the region.”

The USABC also organized an Aerospace, Defense and Security (ADS) mission to the Philippines composed of more than 20 companies recognized as leaders across the defense and security sectors, among them Armscor Global Defense Inc., the biggest firearms manufacturer in the Philippines.

The business mission comes

PAGE 6

like Fr. Daniel Berrigan and speakers invited on campus like Daniel Ellsberg. And most importantly, through African American classmates like Don Matthews, who makes him conscious of his white privilege: “As ethnic students, we’re constantly fighting racism…”. Meanwhile, his bonds with Rebecca grow stronger, and when Rebecca completes her studies and returns to the Philippines, Cunningham follows in pursuit through a United Methodist Mission internship, a 3-year program that enables immersion. This is fortuitous. As Cunningham prepares for this assignment, he learns that the Philippines is a country whose U.S. colonial occupation was rationalized through America’s white

supremacist ideology of Manifest Destiny. During this internship they get married, and Cunningham gets a taste of Filipino stereotypes about Americans. In the waning days of the Marcos dictatorship, he even experiences a Philippine-style protest demonstration that includes water cannons, tear gas, and being fired upon with rubber bullets. A trip to the Bataan Export Processing Zone, an industrial area devoted to processing Philippine goods for export, reveals how cheap Philippine goods often result from the exploitation of workers. Their plight is illustrated by workers living in dormitories and working in shifts, who often share a bed by sleeping in turns. Cunningham’s immersion in

a society rife with social unrest and social justice issues, along with his marriage to Rebecca, a progressive Deaconess, would provide a faith-based moral perspective from which his subsequent assignments would be viewed. During assignments as a pastor in predominantly white congregations, Cunningham sought to create a more open church. In most cases, he felt resistance from the white leadership of these congregations. These experiences inspired Cunningham to envision a church that would be welcoming of everyone while committed to fighting injustice and racism. This led him to start a new church—New Day Church (NDC)—in the Bronx which “connects with God

No, Quezon Didn’t Wish

PAGE 6

you to accept that there is no people on Earth who would not prefer their own bad government to the good government of an alien power.”

at a very opportune time as President Marcos’ meeting with President Donald Trump reaffirmed the ironclad alliance between the US and the Philippines as vital to peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region while advancing closer economic ties, including supply chain cooperation.

The core message that I wanted to convey to the business delegation was simple: economic strength is the foundation of strategic strength. When US companies invest in the Philippines, we are not only talking about returns on capital – it’s about returns on the alliance, because a stronger Philippine economy means a more capable and reliable defense partner for the United States. It’s as basic as that. And as I have said on many occasions, economic and defense security are inextricably linked; essentially two sides of the same coin.

“The strength of our alliance is not just determined by the depth and frequency of our defense and security engagements. For our alliance to be strong politically, it must also be strong economically,” Secretary Lazaro said.

The strategic location of the Philippines – sitting at the heart of the Indo-Pacific – makes

What India’s Father of the Nation was saying is that no people on Earth should prefer the benevolent rule of outsiders over the flawed but self-determined rule of their own.

It wasn’t a call for chaos—it was a call for accountability.

And yet, even if our own president Manuel Quezon influenced India’s counterpart a decade later, we’ve twisted Quezon’s words into a punchline, as if he were endorsing corruption, incompetence, or karaoke-fueled governance.

Worse, we’ve ignored the deeper irony: since 1946, we’ve been less “run by Filipinos” than run by Filipinos trying very hard to be Americans.

We revived the Americanization Movement. We enshrined English as the language of progress. We built a society where being Filipino was something to be apologized for, not celebrated. In the process, we didn’t just lose our accent— we lost our authorship.

Instead of building an ethnic economy rooted in our own stories, products, and culture, we outsourced our identity.

We became a nation of individuals, not Filipinos—people driven by self-gain and narcissism, not national purpose.

And when those individuals plunder the country, they be-

come, in effect, aliens. Citizenship is not just a passport—it’s a promise. Break it, and you forfeit the right to claim the nation you betrayed.

So no, Quezon didn’t get his wish.

He wished for a government led by Filipinos who not only knew how to be Filipino, but aspired to it—who lived it in mind, word, and deed. Sisikapin kong maging isang tunay na Pilipino: sa isip, sa salita, at sa gawa.

He wished for a country that could make mistakes, yes—but also learn from them. A country that could fall, but rise again. A country that could be run like hell, but choose heaven.

And that choice requires more than ballots. It requires a cultural reckoning.

Let’s stop exporting our people and start inviting the world to rediscover the Philippines— not as a tropical escape, but as a cultural epic with multiple golden ages. A designated land—Lupang Hinirang—of patriots, geniuses, martyrs, artists, and soldiers of independence who redirected the global gaze toward our shores, and maritime ancestors who turned the tide of history with courage, brilliance, and conviction.

Let’s make our past our passport—to prosperity, to pride, and to our rightful place in history, finally told in our own voice.

Because the problem isn’t that our leaders are Filipino. The problem is they forgot how to be.

for...

Quezon’s real wish was for a Philippines run by Filipinos who love the Philippines—not just in sentiment, but in stewardship. Not just in slogans, but in systems.

He said: “You are Filipinos. The Philippines are your country, and the only country God has given you. You must keep it for yourselves, for your children, and for your children’s children, until the world is no more.”

That’s not a wish. That’s a charge.

Let’s stop misquoting Quezon—and start fulfilling him.

* * *

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

* * *

Eliseo Art Silva is a Filipino artist based in Los Angeles and Manila whose murals and paintings reclaim history, elevate diasporic narratives, and ignite civic dialogue. Best known for the Filipino American Mural in LA and the Talang Gabay Gateway to Filipinotown, Silva fuses myth, scholarship, and activism to restore Filipino identity and authorship to the heart of national and global discourse. n

Fortun: DNA retrieval from remains found in Taal Lake still possible

by JAne BAutistA Inquirer.net

MANILA, Philippines

— The country’s top forensic pathologist said on Wednesday that a forensic examination of the skeletal remains retrieved by authorities from Taal Lake was still possible even as the Philippine National Police earlier said the task would be difficult.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Dr. Raquel Fortun, the chair of the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) pathology department, also welcomed the plan of the Department of Justice (DOJ) to turn over the remains to her team.

The bones were retrieved by divers from the lake after a whistleblower claimed that these belonged to some of the missing “sabungeros” (cockfight enthusiasts) who were kidnapped and killed.

“You don’t just give up or dismiss it like that. I don’t know when they (PNP) said it was no longer possible—

so is that a limitation of their laboratory? Then we can try other laboratories. As for the procedure, [we can do]

mitochondrial DNA, which would still be useful even if the remains are already degraded,” Fortun said.

She explained that the procedure should begin with a physical examination and proper documentation of the retrieved items.

While DNA testing is one way to establish identity, Fortun said they could also determine sex through skeletal features such as the skull or pelvis and examine dental records if teeth are present.

Incorrect handling Fortun earlier criticized the way authorities handled the retrieval operations in Taal Lake, Batangas, that began in late July, when sacks of bones were opened and their contents scattered.

“What should be done is just take the sack, number it as Sack No. 1, and mark where it was recovered. Personally, I would have

brought it to the laboratory without opening it and just X-ray[ed] what’s inside. A basic question, for instance, is whether it is human or not; you can already see that on X-ray,” she said.

Earlier this month, DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano said they sought the assistance of the UP forensic pathology and anthropology departments, as well as the Japanese government, in examining the remains as part of the government’s ongoing investigation into the missing sabungeros case.

This was after the PNP admitted it could not extract DNA profiles from the bones due to contamination.

Clavano said Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla believed DNA samples could still be retrieved, particularly from the recovered teeth and hair strands, prompting the DOJ to turn to Fortun and the Japanese government.

The government launched

9

In business, there’s always a...

it an ideal hub for trade and security. And at a time when America is diversifying supply chains and rethinking its global strategy, the Philippines is a natural choice and a strategic necessity.

During the open session with members of the media, the tariffs issue was raised. But as Secretary Lazaro pointed out, the situation “encourages intra-ASEAN trade,” with a lot of discussions evolving within ASEAN on how to expand and increase intra-ASEAN trade.

The recent trip of President Marcos to India is also a very clear indication that we are looking at other markets outside of the US – which is what other countries are also doing. Having said that, we are reaching out to other countries not only within our region but in Europe and other areas to make up for the exports to the US that may no longer be competitive in price because of the tariffs.

Admittedly, the planned 100

percent increase on chips and electronic products is very disturbing, to say the least, as this would impact a lot of companies not only in the Philippines but across Asia-Pacific. Which is why we are working with the semiconductor industry to see how they can navigate this development.

Talks are also ongoing with US trade officials, the US Chamber of Commerce, the Semiconductor Association in the United States and Washington, D.C. and of course, the US-ASEAN Business Council.

We are counting on the continued support of the US private sector to help the Philippines engage with President Trump as we seek mutually beneficial opportunities to foster closer economic cooperation. After all, the USABC delegates are not only investors, but also trusted voices in Washington – so I called on them to convey this message to the US government: every US dollar invested in the Philippines strengthens

America’s position in the Indo-Pacific.

US investments create jobs, provide opportunities to transfer skills and reinforce an ally like the Philippines that shares the security goals of the United States. So where do we start? On infrastructure and logistics that serve trade and naval readiness; on energy projects that secure reliable power for both industry and defense; on technology and cybersecurity that protect commercial and military assets; and on defense industrial partnerships that keep American equipment ready in the region.

Prosperity and security have become inseparable – and it makes a lot of sense for the US and the Philippines to invest together, grow together and stand together. In the end, one has to remember that “politics makes the headlines, but business makes the bottom line.”

* * *

Email: babeseyeview@ gmail.com n

Beyond the white Church:Disrupting ...

PAGE 7

in an authentic relationship that was transforming our lives”; crosses “boundaries of race, class, sexual orientation, gender and age”; and confronts “injustice with the compassion and abundance of God.” In effect, the NDC seeks to create a community where everyone is welcome and challenged to cross boundaries of race, gender, and sexual orientation.

In addition, the NDC also sought to develop leadership and empower its members through meaningful involvement in the many aspects of church life and worship.

One notable example is the sharing of preaching duties, a function that is normally reserved for the pastor only. In addition to conducting worship services and promoting faithbased fellowship, the NDC was also involved in organizing around community issues. One notable success story is NDC’s partnership with the Kingsbridge Redevelopment Alliance (KARA), which forced the City to revise its development plans for Kingsbridge Armory to include jobs that provide a living wage rather than just minimum wage.

The establishment of the NDC was a resounding success and provided a model and a compass heading for the UMC. But Cunningham soon finds out that establishing a reformed church, an organization that

serves a local community or a New York borough, is simpler and easier than reforming an organization with a national reach. Introducing reforms to sensitize the UMC to white privilege turns out to be a much more difficult struggle, even at the diocese level. The later chapters of his book paint glimpses of this. One such is the resistance of white congregations to having a Black pastor. Another is the resistance of the church hierarchy itself to meaningfully address issues of equity and racism. An example that Cunningham sketches out in detail is when the New York Annual Conference chapter of Black Methodists for Church Renewal (BMCR) released an open letter that laid out steps to combat racism in the church in 2020. A couple of years after its release, Cunningham’s efforts to follow up on the open letter lead him to observe to a church official: “We are more concerned about the comfort of white moderates and conservatives than equity for Black pastors and churches,” and he concludes that “prioritizing white comfort over racial equity takes a heavy toll. I mourn the dozens of creative, effective, and committed pastors who have left local church ministry because of this inequity and harm.”

These are weighty

observations made towards the end of his memoirs. White privilege, it seems, is a very comfortable knapsack, which many Caucasian Americans, even in faith-based communities, are loath to give up.

Cunningham’s journey from a privileged white person to a person devoted to the struggle against white privilege within a white church is a compelling read, especially for those who struggle with similar issues within their faith-based communities. It is noteworthy how Cunningham draws inspiration for his themes, stories, and perspectives from the gospel, using passages to frame his stories or synthesize their lessons. In memoir form, Rev. Cunningham continues to preach in an engaging and inspiring way that keeps the pages turning.

*

* *

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

• • • Enrique de la Cruz is Professor Emeritus of Asian American Studies at Cal State University, Northridge. n

Fortun: DNA retrieval from remains...

search and retrieval operations in Taal Lake based on a tip from a whistleblower and accused Julie “Dondon” Patidongan. Patidongan, who also faces kidnapping charges, alleged that the missing sabungeros

were abducted, strangled to death, and dumped in the lake by a group of police officers allegedly acting on the orders of gambling tycoon Charlie “Atong” Ang.

On Wednesday, Patidongan and his coaccused in the disappearance of the cockfighting enthusiasts at the Manila Arena in 2022

appeared before the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 185 for the continuation of their trial.

The hearing lasted less than half an hour, with court staffers saying that it was merely an entry of appearance for one of the counsels. The next hearing is set for Sept. 23. /cb n

Ninoy Aquino’s assassination has more clarity now — Marcos

by JeAn mAngAluz Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines —

In a rare statement on his family’s storied political rival, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that time has allowed Filipinos to look at the late senator Benigno Aquino Jr.’s death with more clarity.

Marcos declined to comment on Aquino’s character directly, carefully wording his statement to focus on the holiday itself, which commemorates the anti-Martial Law figure’s assassination.

“The commemoration of Ninoy Aquino Day brings to light a chapter in our nation's shared story that continues to echo across generations and public memory,” Marcos said in his statement.

“The passage of time has allowed the country to approach this event with greater clarity and, therefore, with a deeper perspective. History invites reflection more than reaction and from

that reflection arises a clearer understanding of civic duty,” he added.

Aquino was the main rival of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. — the president’s father. He had been a staunch critic of Marcos Sr.’s imposition of Martial Law, even becoming a political prisoner while he was a senator.

He had sought medical treatment in the US after a heart attack, but decided to return to the Philippines to face the Marcoses.

But before he could step on Philippine soil, Aquino was shot dead. Aquino’s killing became a major turning point for the EDSA Revolution, which ousted Marcos Sr. and drove his family out of the country.

While Marcos Sr. had been accused of having Aquino killed, it was never officially proven.

Only for the Marcos children to make a slow return to power in the following decades, with Marcos Jr. seated as the president and Sen. Imee

Marcos as a lawmaker.

As the current president put it in his Aquino day statement: “I have come to understand that history offers less final judgment than continuing instruction. It sharpens how we serve, how we listen, and how we bear the weight of an office with a greater purpose moving forward.”

“This day, therefore, becomes an invitation to govern with sobriety, conscience, and foresight. Our commemoration achieves meaning when the lessons of the past are reflected in our actions and in the moral architecture of institutions,” Marcos Jr. said.

Marcos Sr.’s imposition of Martial Law deeply affected the nation, with thousands of people tortured, imprisoned, or killed.

The Marcos family also left the country with billions of pesos.

Several members of the Marcos family currently hold positions of power in government. n

The search and retrieval operations conducted in Taal Lake for the missing “sabungeros” have yielded skeletal remains and clothing items, among others. They now require more advanced forensic technology and expertise to determine if indeed they are connected to the four-year-old case. —PHOTO FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Nadia Montenegro resigns as Padilla's political affairs officer following alleged marijuana use at Senate

Nadia Montenegro has resigned as the political affairs officer of Sen. Robin Padilla following allegations that she smoked marijuana inside the Senate premises.

by niCk gArCiA Philstar.com

"Today, we receive the written explanation and letter of resignation of Ms. Nadia Montenegro. Her resignation has been accepted," read the letter dated Monday, Aug. 18. It was signed by Atty. Rudolf Philip Jurado, chief of staff of Padilla's office.

Montenegro has been on leave since Aug. 13, Jurado previously said.

She was named in a Senate incident report filed by the Office of the Sergeant-AtArms.

According to the report, Montenegro was the only person in the area when

one of Sen. Ping Lacson’s staffers noticed a strong odor resembling marijuana coming from the ladies’ restroom.

The staffer informed security personnel, Victor Patelo, who then filed the incident report.

When approached, Montenegro denied it but admitted to owning a vape, which she said might have caused the unusual odor.

The OSAA then submitted the report to Padilla, requesting his "appropriate action."

Padilla requested an investigation, and Jurado, initially declining to name Montenegro, asked the alleged perpetrator to submit a written explanation within

Marcos to accept NBI chief’s resignation

by Alexis RomeRo Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos will accept the resignation of National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Jaime Santiago, who stepped down over alleged efforts by his detractors to “blacken” his reputation.

“His resignation (is) for acceptance,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at a press briefing yesterday when asked to react to Santiago’s irrevocable resignation.

Castro could not say whether President Marcos had spoken with Santiago, who was appointed NBI chief in June last year.

She assured the public that Santiago’s resignation would not affect the cases handled by the NBI, including the kidnapping and disappearance of sabungeros or cockfight

enthusiasts.

Castro said she has not received information about the possible successor of the resigned NBI chief.

Santiago submitted his irrevocable resignation to Marcos on Aug. 15.

His resignation will take effect

five days.

Jurado clarified that he did not go to the OSAA because Padilla was summoned. Instead, he went there for their office's internal investigation. Staffers from both OSAA and Padilla's office, however, had no memory of the incident.

The OSAA said it will forward the report to Senate President Chiz Escudero.

It also announced that they will continue implementing random drug testing among Senate employees, which, Jurado said, Padilla's office finds no issue with. He also asked Montenegro to do a drug test, though the actress was reportedly in talks with a lawyer at the time. n

Senate completes CA delegation; 3 minority senators secure seats

by AJPress

MANILA, Philippines —

The Senate has finalized its 12-member representation in the Commission on Appointments (CA), ensuring that three seats are held by the minority bloc: Risa Hontiveros, Loren Legarda, and Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri. Their inclusion followed a week of negotiations and debate over how the slots should be divided between majority and minority senators.

On August 18, the chamber first confirmed nine senators from the majority to the CA. The initial group included Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, JV Ejercito, Jinggoy Estrada, Christopher “Bong” Go,

Rodante Marcoleta, Imee Marcos, Raffy Tulfo, Joel Villanueva, and Mark Villar. The Senate noted that this was “subject to the caveat” that the minority’s seats would still be filled later in the week.

The allocation of seats became contentious, with Majority Leader Joel Villanueva initially pushing for an 80–20 splitthat would have left the minority with only two seats. Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III countered, arguing for stronger representation. To resolve the impasse, Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano withdrew his bid for a seat, paving the way for three minority senators to be accommodated.

With the selections finalized, the Senate’s CA delegation now includes: Dela Rosa,

Ejercito, Estrada, Go, Marcoleta, Marcos, Tulfo, Villanueva, Villar, Hontiveros, Legarda, and Zubiri. Under the Constitution, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero automatically sits as ex officio chair of the Commission. Broader implications

The CA, a 25-member constitutional body composed of the Senate President, 12 senators, and 12 House members, has the authority to confirm or reject presidential appointments, including Cabinet officials, ambassadors, and senior military officers. The inclusion of three minority senators strengthens the chamber’s balance, ensuring that confirmation hearings will reflect a wider range of views and more robust deliberations. n

once the President picks his replacement.

In his resignation letter, Santiago, a retired police officer and judge, cited “detractors” and “those who have a sinister interest” in his post who are trying to blemish his reputation. n

Ayala Land, ABS-CBN seal P6.24B Mother Ignacia property deal

by AJPress

QUEZON CITY — Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI) and ABS-CBN Corporation have completed the sale of most of ABSCBN’s iconic Mother Ignacia headquarters, signing the Deeds of Absolute Sale on August 20, 2025. The transaction, valued at ₱6.24 billion, covers up to 30,000 square meters of the 44,027.30-square-meter property, equivalent to about 68% of the site.

The terms of the deal

According to regulatory disclosures, the sale price will be payable in installments over 10 years. Proceeds will be used by ABS-CBN to partially pay and service outstanding bank loans. The deal was first announced in February 2025 through a Memorandum of Agreement, which was subject to regulatory clearances including from the Philippine Competition Commission.

What ABS-CBN retains ABS-CBN will keep 14,027.30 sq m of the property, where it will consolidate its offices and broadcast operationswithin the ELJ Communications Center and adjoining facilities. The network has begun preparations to streamline its operations within this retained campus, citing efficiency and cost management.

Ayala Land’s plans ALI has indicated it is

masterplanning a mixed-use development for the threehectare tract it acquired. While details have yet to be released, the developer has described the project as a “unique development” aligned with its portfolio of integrated estates across Metro Manila.

Timeline of events

• February 27–28, 2025: ABS-CBN and ALI sign the Memorandum of Agreement, disclosing the P6.24-billion transaction for 30,000 sq m, subject to conditions.

• August 20, 2025: The parties execute the Deeds of Absolute Sale, officially consummating the transaction after regulatory approvals were satisfied.

From Broadcast Symbol to Redevelopment Asset

The Mother Ignacia property has long been a symbol of ABS-

CBN’s broadcast presence. The deal underscores the network’s efforts to unlock asset values and address financial obligations, while still maintaining a central base of operations. For Ayala Land, the acquisition adds a valuable redevelopment site in Quezon City, positioned for a future mixed-use project that could reshape the area.

With the signing of the deeds, the Mother Ignacia deal is now closed. ABS-CBN will continue to operate from a smaller, consolidated campus, while Ayala Land prepares to redevelop the acquired parcel into a new commercial landmark.

This report is based on verified filings with the Philippine Stock Exchange and contemporaneous reports from various Philippine media outlets.n

Nadia Montenegro/Facebook

National Bureau of Investigation Director Jaime Santiago says he resigned because of the orchestrated moves to taint his reputation.

ABS-CBN network headquarters in Quezon City. Inquirer.net file photo

Filipinas on Tennis’ Brightest Stage: Alexandra Eala and Leylah Fernandez at the US Open

by AJPress

NEW YORK — At Flushing Meadows, where the noise of New York collides with the silence demanded by the sport, Alexandra Eala and Leylah Fernandez are stepping into a spotlight that has shaped tennis legends. For the two Filipinas, the 2025 US Open is not just another tournament; it is an arena where identity, ambition, and history converge.

Eala: From Junior Champion to Main Draw Contender Alexandra Eala is no stranger to the US Open stage.

In 2022, she captured the girls’ singles crown, becoming the first Filipina to win a junior Grand Slam singles title. That victory gave her more than a trophy. It placed her in the lineage of champions who first tested their grit in New York before breaking through on the global circuit.

Now, Eala returns not as a junior but as a professional, armed with tour-level experience and the hopes of a nation eager to see its tennis program validated on the sport’s toughest courts.

Fernandez: A Familiar Face With Fresh Momentum

For Leylah Fernandez, New York is a reminder of both heartbreak and glory. In 2021, she stunned the tennis world as a teenager, surging to the US Open final with fearless shot-making and victories over several top-seeded players before finishing runner-up to Emma Raducanu. That breakthrough made her not only a Canadian sensation but also a source of

immense pride for the global Filipino community.

Four years later, Fernandez’s fight endures: her game sharper, her composure steadier, and her ambitions still fueled by the echoes of that unforgettable fortnight.

Shared Roots, Divergent Paths

Though born and raised in different countries, Eala and Fernandez share cultural ties that extend beyond tennis. Both are Filipinas carving places in a sport where representation from Southeast

Asia is rare. Their ascent embodies the resilience of diaspora stories: families who crossed oceans, communities who rallied behind them, and the pressure of carrying dual identities onto the world’s most scrutinized courts.

A Tournament With a Lineage of Greatness

Since its founding in 1881, the US Open has stood as one of tennis’s defining stages. Once held on the grass courts of Newport, Rhode Island, the tournament later moved to Forest Hills before settling at

Flushing Meadows in 1978, where its hard courts and New York crowds ushered in a new era of the sport.

Legends have left indelible marks here: Arthur Ashe, who in 1968 became the first African American man to win a Grand Slam singles title; Billie Jean King, who not only captured four singles titles but also used the stage to advance gender equality; Pete Sampras and Roger Federer, who ruled in succession with contrasting styles but equal dominance. Serena

Williams transformed the tournament into her proving ground, claiming six titles and inspiring a generation.

It is within this continuum that Eala and Fernandez now step, in the same space where legends have risen and careers have turned with a single swing.

Writing Their Own Chapter

The US Open has long been tennis’s ultimate test, a tournament where athletes are measured under the lights before New York’s restless crowds. For Eala and

Fernandez, it represents both continuity and possibility. Fernandez seeks to recapture the spark of 2021 with greater maturity and consistency. Eala, meanwhile, is determined to prove that her junior triumph was not an anomaly but the prologue of a career built for the grandest stages.

At Flushing Meadows, every rally carries the chance to tip a career forward. This year, two Filipinas are vying not only for victories, but for a place in the unfolding chapter of tennis history.

Alex Eala holds her runner-up trophy after a hard-fought final at the 2025 Lexus Eastbourne Open. The 20-year-old Filipina made history as the first from the Philippines to reach a WTA Tour final, earning a career-high world ranking of No. 56 ahead of her Wimbledon debut. (Photo Source @alex.eala instagram) | Leylah Fernandez Photo from Facebook @leylahannietennis

FAIRWAYS OF POWER: How Golf

Became the Quiet Language of Influence in the Philippines

Inside Manila Golf & Country Club, where a single share sold for Php200 million (US $3.6 million), golf has become the quiet language of power in the Philippines, rivaling the world’s most exclusive clubs.

by AJPress

In the stillness of early mornings, before Manila’s heat presses down, convoys of black SUVs slip past the guarded gates of Manila Golf, Wack Wack, or Sta. Elena. Inside, no cameras roll, no microphones prod. Yet in these greens, fortunes shift, alliances take root, and dynasties quietly extend their reach.

For much of the country, these manicured landscapes are glimpsed only from afar, their gates keeping watch over traditions not meant for everyone. For the few who walk these fairways, however, the game is less about strokes and scores, and more about trust, inheritance, and the deals sealed in hushed tones beneath the shade of century-old trees.

A Colonial Game Turned Capital Code

Golf arrived in the Philippines in the early 1900s with British and American colonials. At first, it was a pastime of expatriates and high officials, marked by white linen and brown-skinned caddies walking silently behind. Over time, as Filipino families rose through real estate, politics, and finance, the sport evolved into something more—a coded language of belonging.

Here, access was never about athletic skill. It was about lineage and the right introductions. A handshake on a par three could outweigh weeks of boardroom debate. Unlike polo or sailing, golf needed little display. Land, time, and access were enough. Golfing as Gatekeeping

At Manila Golf & Country Club, the Philippines’ most exclusive course, membership is less sport than status. Established in 1901 and relocated to its current Forbes Park site in 1949, it has only around 600 proprietary shares in circulation. The club does not advertise and rarely admits newcomers outside its tight circle.

“Membership is the real currency,” says a long-time facilitator of share transfers. “You don’t play to be seen. You play because you’re already known.”

In June 2024, that currency made headlines when a single

sold for Php200 million (about US $3.6 million)—a record in Philippine golf history. The buyer was not just purchasing rounds of golf, but an entry into a legacy circle where mergers are mulled over misreads and business disputes can dissolve with a handshake.

The Php200 Million Swing and Its Ripple Effects

That sale reshaped expectations across the country’s golfing landscape. Share prices at other prestigious clubs surged in its wake. Wack Wack Golf & Country Club, once heralded for its history and inclusivity, saw shares climb to Php25–30 million. Valley Golf’s prices pushed past Php12 million. Newer favorites like Sta. Elena, popular with tech and real estate heirs, hovered near Php14 million.

Each transaction underscores the idea that golf in the Philippines is not just recreation. It is equity, a legacy instrument, and an invisible seal of approval among the nation’s most powerful families.

The Global Context Globally, golf remains synonymous with privilege.

Augusta National in Georgia, home of The Masters, famously charges initiation fees estimated at $250,000, with annual dues around $10,000. Liberty National in New Jersey requires about $450,000 upfront. In Singapore, membership at the iconic Sentosa Golf Club costs between SG$500,000–1,000,000 (US $370,000–740,000).

Yet these elite clubs operate differently. Their hefty fees secure access but not ownership. Unlike Manila Golf, shares cannot be inherited, traded, or sold. In the Philippines, membership is

Sharon Cuneta moved to tears by daughter Frankie Pangilinan’s “cash envelope” gift

equity—making it both culturally potent and financially strategic.

The Php200 million Manila Golf share sits not just within Asia’s priciest circles, but also as one of the world’s most expensive golf assets.

Beyond the Greens: A Social Matrix

The exclusivity extends beyond course play. Manila Golf’s clubhouse offers piano bars, saunas, and dining salons where privacy is paramount. At Wack Wack, the twin courses carry memories of old-guard politics. At Sta. Elena, families can blend play with luxury estate living.

“It’s where succession is mentored,” says a secondgeneration executive who spent childhood weekends at Tagaytay Midlands. “You learn early: respect the course, respect the order.”

Here, golf is a generational bridge, grandfathers walking the greens with their grandchildren, passing down not only lessons of grip and swing, but of restraint, patience, and quiet power.

The Post-Pandemic Surge

The pandemic years sparked a renaissance for the sport. As one of the few safe ways to socialize outdoors, golf surged in demand. Mid-tier clubs reported spikes in applications, and developers integrated private courses into luxury townships. The game became a symbol of fresh air and exclusivity at a time when both were in short supply.

The Next Tee Box

What lies ahead for Philippine golf? Modernization is creeping in, with clubs exploring appbased tee reservations and ecoconscious landscaping. International tournaments

by AJPress

MANILA — Sharon Cuneta shared a deeply personal moment with her fans after receiving, for the first time, a “cash envelope” from her daughter Frankie “Kakie” Pangilinan. In a post that outlets reported on August 20, the Megastar said she became emotional when Frankie handed her money along with a handwritten note, promising to take care of her parents, Sharon and Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, in their old age.

Cuneta described the gift as priceless, writing that she “wanted to frame the money” and that Frankie’s gesture moved her to tears. The story quickly circulated among fans and entertainment outlets,

beckon, promising global recognition. But purists caution against too much change.

highlighting the heartfelt exchange between mother and daughter.

Days earlier, Frankie had also made news after being sworn in as Chairperson of the Committee on Youth of the Senate Spouses Foundation, Inc. (SSFI). She took her oath of office on August 14, 2025, before Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero at the Senate of the Philippines in Pasay City, according to an official Senate release.

The SSFI is a socio-civic, non-profit organization composed of senators’ spouses that runs projects ranging from medical missions to feeding programs and disaster relief. Frankie’s new role as youth chair is a voluntary, unpaid position, underscoring her involvement in civic activi-

ties apart from her professional career.

Outside of her civic work, Frankie is actively pursuing a career as a singer-songwriter and performer, having released music under the stage name Kakie since 2019, including her 2021 EP abOUT hER SPACE. In 2025, she also made her acting debut in the biopic EdJop, portraying Joy Jopson, the wife of dissident Edgar Jopson. These artistic endeavors form her professional career, while her SSFI appointment is civic service. For Frankie, the year marks both artistic milestones and a first step into civic involvement, a blend of personal achievement and public service that signals her emerging place among the next generation of leaders.

“There’s a reason Manila Golf hasn’t changed much since the 1950s,” a member reflects. “It’s not about novelty. It’s about trust. And trust is harder to build than any course.” Final Hole Golf in the Philippines is not for everyone. Whether it is a P200 million share at Manila Golf or a Php90,000 green fee at a championship course, the sport functions as both pastime and passport. It signals wealth, yes. But more importantly, it signals entry into an arena where the nation’s most influential figures still meet in quiet confidence, far from headlines, sealing their futures in the stillness of the fairways.

Sharon Cuneta and Frankie Pangilinan Photos from Sharon Cuneta Instagram account

Manila Golf share

Unsplash.com photo by Mick De Paola

Liza Soberano confirms split with Enrique Gil, speaks candidly about childhood struggles in new series

by AJPress

Filipino-American actress

Liza Soberano has confirmed that her long-rumored breakup with fellow actor Enrique Gil happened “almost three years ago,” ending months of speculation about the status of their relationship. The admission came during the Aug. 14 episode of Can I Come In?, a YouTube documentarypodcast series created by Palestinian-Australian artist Sarah Bahbah in partnership with WePresent by WeTransfer.

“I’ve been honestly itching to tell people this… Quen and I broke up,” Soberano said, using Gil’s nickname. She described the separation as amicable, calling it “a beautiful breakup” that remained “full of love” and emphasizing that “he didn’t do anything bad.”

The pair, popularly known as LizQuen, starred together in multiple films and television series since 2014.

Soberano explained that they initially chose not to make the split public to give themselves space to process the change.

Philippine media noted that her statement matches a 2023 claim by her former talent manager Ogie Diaz, though neither Soberano nor Gil had confirmed it at the time. Gil has not issued a public comment on her latest remarks.

In the same interview, Soberano shared personal

recollections from her early years in the United States. She alleged that her mother was struggling with methamphetamine addiction during her childhood and that she and her younger brother later experienced mistreatment in foster care. According to her account, the foster guardian would exclude them from family activities and refer to them as the “family dog.” She also alleged that a chaotic incident involving her mother’s then-boyfriend and a stolen van was, at the time, reported as a kidnapping case. These claims were presented as Soberano’s own memories and personal experiences; the

individuals she referred to have not been publicly identified in full, and her statements have not been independently verified.

The Can I Come In? series features in-depth, cinemastyle episodes in which guests speak candidly about pivotal moments in their lives. Soberano’s installment, titled Mind Your F**cking Business!, marks one of her most unfiltered public appearances to date, coinciding with her career’s expansion into international projects such as the Hollywood film Lisa Frankenstein and appearances at high-profile events like the Gold House Gala.

Julia Barretto proud of Gerald Anderson in directorial debut

by hAnnAh mAllorCA Inquirer.net

As Gerald Anderson made his directorial debut in an episode of “Sins of the Father,” his girlfriend Julia Barretto is happy for the recent milestone in his entertainment career.

The actor took the director’s chair in an episode of “Sins of the Father,” where he engaged in multiple brutal fistfights and encounters with the henchmen of Roldan Rivera (Joko Diaz), in the hope of being included in the latter’s group.

Anderson is of course grateful for Barretto’s support, as seen in the obvious twinkle

in his eyes when asked about what his girlfriend thought of his directorial debut.

“Happy, supportive, alam naman hindi ito biro. Siyempre, as much as makuha mo lahat ng suporta ng mga tao sa paligid mo, napakaimportante [ang support niya] para sa mga ganitong responsibilities,” he said in a set visit for the series.

(She’s happy, supportive, especially knowing that this is not a joke. Of course, as much as you get the support of everyone around you. Her support is very important for these kinds of responsibilities.)

When asked if he is open to directing Barretto in a future

Gigette Reyes: From Teleseryes to Disney’s Freakier Friday

by AJPress

LOS ANGELES – A familiar face in Philippine television and film is making a Hollywood turn. Veteran Filipina actress Gigette Reyes, known for memorable roles in teleseryes like Pangako Sa ’Yo, Darna, and Sana Maulit Muli, appears in Disney’s highly anticipated comedy sequel Freakier Friday (2025).

A Hollywood Debut with Filipino Flavor Reyes plays Loretta, the mother of Eric Reyes (portrayed by Filipino-Canadian actor Manny Jacinto) and the soon-to-be mother-in-law of Lindsay Lohan’s character, Anna Coleman. In a nod to her heritage, her scenes include cultural touches such as the traditional Filipino greeting “Mano po” during a family rehearsal dinner, an Easter egg that delighted Filipino audiences and underscored Disney’s embrace of diverse representation.

A Storied Career in Philippine

Entertainment

Gigette Reyes is no stranger to Filipino viewers. She first rose to prominence in the 1970s, debuting in Ang Tatay Kong Nanay (1978), directed by National Artist Lino Brocka and starring Dolphy. From there, she built a decades-long career across film, television, and theater.

On television, she became a

reliable supporting actress in hit dramas that defined the golden era of teleseryes—Pangako Sa ’Yo (2000), Hiram (2004), Darna (2005), Sana Maulit Muli (2007), and Lobo (2008). She also appeared in films like Chasing Fire (2013) and most recently in Vic and His Nanay (2024), a short film that screened at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival.

Reyes is also a stage veteran, having been part of the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA). Now based in Los Angeles, she continues to work on projects that bridge her Filipino roots with an international audience.

A Global Milestone

With Freakier Friday, Reyes joins an ensemble cast led by Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan, reprising their roles from the 2003 hit. For the actress, the cameo marks a milestone that connects her storied Philippine career with Hollywood visibility, bringing Filipino representation to a global franchise.

‘Lumpia Queen’ Abi Marquez wins big at 2025 IBA Awards

by glydell ArCiAgA Philstar.com

On any given day, Abi Marquez could be found rolling lumpia in front of a camera. Now, the content creator, also known as “Lumpia Queen,” has earned one of the highest honors in the global business world.

project, Anderson said he would love to.

“Wala siyang choice. Kailangan sundin ‘yung utos ko [although] wala pa ako sa gan’un (She has no choice. She needs to follow my orders, although I’m not at that stage yet),” he said while laughing.

Julia Barretto proud of Gerald Anderson in directorial debut. Image: Instagram/@ juliabarretto

Gerald Anderson and Julia Barretto. Image: Instagram/@ juliabarretto

As Gerald Anderson made

Marquez made history at the 22nd Annual International Business Awards by becoming the first-ever Gold Stevie winner for Most Innovative Content Creator of the Year under the Social Media Awards category. The newly established category celebrates creators who help redefine social media storytelling and engagement through innovation.

The International Business Awards are the world’s premier business awards program honoring excellence across industries.

Among entries from 78 countries, Marquez stood out and became the sole winner of the award. With over 10 million followers across her platforms, she has brought Filipino food into the spotlight through creative and engaging content.

Her journey began with

creating simple food clips rooted in family traditions during the pandemic. Over time, her signature dish, lumpia, has become an integral part of her content storytelling, sometimes collaborating with major international figures like Gordon Ramsay, the Superman cast, and Uncle Roger, and yes, even the staff of PhilSTAR L!fe!

Judges at the IBAS praised her for her “outstanding content, unique delivery, and standout collaborations."

A judge also added: “A cultural force who’s turning lumpia into a global icon.”

Her content goes beyond just recipes, as she shares stories that highlight Filipino traditions. As one IBA judge put it, “Abi

Marquez presents a compelling case as a cultural ambassador and content creator... Her ability to merge storytelling, culinary tradition, and social media is impressive.”

Apart from Marquez, NYMA chief operating officer Kat Bautista also became the first Filipina to win the Stevie Silver for the Best Female Entrepreneur category. They will be honored at the IBA Awards gala banquet at the Corinthia Hotel in Lisbon, Portugal, on Friday, Oct. 10. This recognition adds to Marquez's list of previous accolades, including the Webby People’s Voice Award, Forbes Asia 30 Under 30, and Cannes WIBA Food Creator of the Year.

Liza Soberano | Screengrab from Instagram/@lizasoberano

Photo from Philstar.com

Gigette Reyes Photo from Facebook/@Gigette Reyes

Michael V: Tackling politics is inevitable in comedy

by nAthAlie tomAdA

As much as he dislikes politics, Michael V admitted that it's inevitable to touch on the subject in comedy.

During a recent interview with the Kapuso comedy master — also known as the face and brains of the country's two most enduring comedy shows “Bubble Gang” and “Pepito Manaloto” — he countered the observation that he hardly tackles political issues in his brand of humor.

“There is. Sometimes, it goes viral — the recent one went viral,” he said when asked about it. “It's like our political dynasty. Then we always say, 'Oh, what's this, it's just 'Bubble Gang', it's just a joke. It's not true.' Haven't we always said that? Politics can't be touched. As much as I hate — no, dislike — politics myself, it's inevitable.”

Michael V noted that sometimes, even jokes and skits that have nothing to do with politics get connected to real-life political issues and personalities.

“Sometimes when we are doing nothing, we suddenly get tagged or duetted with BBM (Pres. Bongbong Marcos on TikTok), like that subway system. And then BBM's new 'Report to the President,' they say they should bring back 'Report to Bonggang Bongbong,' right?” he said, referring to the well-loved “Bubble Gang” segment that spoofed investigative programs and aired at various seasons from 2008 to 2023.

"We pre-dated it several years (ago) what the president is doing now. But it's entertaining and at the same time, creepy," he said with a laugh.

For Michael V, comedy does offer a space for expression and allows creative license, but it still comes with responsibility.

“I would think that it's a hall pass, like a VIP pass that comedians have. Because once you do comedy, once you turn everything into comedy, supposedly it's okay to be like you're not going to get screwed, it's just a joke, right? And we've been at this for a long time. We've been doing this for 30 years now, 'if you're screwed, you're screwed, like that,” he said.

“But we still hold ourselves responsible for making those kinds of sketches. We don't just write what we know will

offend. We have our own censorship. And if someone gets offended, if someone is negative about someone else's appearance, it's because of the other influencers who say no, this is what it means. It's their own interpretation.”

Beyond politics, Michael V said the production draws heavily from real life for his shows, where he also serves as creative director.

He explained, "'Bubble Gang' and 'Pepito Manaloto,' for that matter, they're like a mirror of society. So, with 'Bubble Gang,' whatever you see that's trending on social media, the things going viral, even the news that you watch, those are what we often tackle. With 'Pepito Manaloto,' it's more personal actually. Because this is about the real stories of real people."

"The script comes from the ideas thrown by the writers, staff, actors and our bosses whenever we have meetings. Both mirror society, real life, I think that's the secret."

Michael V, nevertheless, acknowledged that the changing times have given comedy these days its own set of challenges.

"It's really hard to be a comedian today because of restrictions and the sensitivity of people," he said during the interview.

"What's difficult now is silencing those with brains so as not to offend those without brains (laughs).

"It's really like that. We have to face that. My plan always — my main plan is to work around it. Whatever exists that is hard to do and hard to break, we will

Manny Jacinto proud to represent Filipinos in Hollywood: ‘It

means the world’

find a way and get around it. And find the fine line and touch it, but never cross it."

The STAR was able to speak to Michael V, also fondly called as Bitoy in the industry, at his contract renewal earlier this week with home network GMA.

Joining Michael V. at the contract signing event were GMA Network president and chief executive officer Gilberto Duavit Jr., executive vice president and chief financial officer Felipe Yalong, and officer-in-charge for the Entertainment Group and vice president for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy. Also present was Bitoy's wife and manager, Carolina Bunagan.

GMA chairman Felipe Gozon expressed his gratitude to Bitoy for the continued partnership through a video message: "I want you to know that getting you to join Bubble Gang in 1995 was one of the best decisions that GMA Network has ever made. Your meticulous and passionate approach to comedy is an inspiration to many comedians, producers, directors and writers."

A grateful Michael V, for his part, credited the Kapuso station for giving him the "freedom to spread my wings."

"Those 30 years (with GMA) have been very fruitful. It gave me the opportunity to learn from GMA and I was also able to see the growth of the network. We really work together. GMA has been a huge help for my career and it gave me the freedom to spread my wings. I think 30 years is not enough, it needs to be extended."

by gAvin mArtinez Inquirer.net

Filipino Canadian actor Manny Jacinto is embracing his cultural roots while making strides in Hollywood, proudly sharing that representing the Filipino community has been one of the most meaningful parts of his career.

In a recent guest appearance on Bianca Gonzalez’s talk show “Paano Ba ‘To” in the Philippines, the “Freakier Friday” star reflected on the honor of showcasing his heritage on a global stage.

“I hope we represented well in this and I hope to continue to represent well. It means the world and I think it’s what it really comes down to. Hollywood is cool and all of that stuff, swinging a lightsaber is cool,” Jacinto said, but emphasized his gratitude for the opportunity to carry Filipino pride in his work.

He went on to share that what truly fulfills him is not the prestige of Hollywood, but the joy of seeing his kababayans beam with pride.

“At the end of the day, the most impactful and most gratifying thing for me is seeing Filipinos smile and be proud –getting to see themselves in a positive way,” he explained.

Jacinto also noted how his personal values mirror those of the characters he portrays. He spoke about the deep sense of family loyalty that resonates strongly with his Filipino upbringing.

“I think in terms of his heart, him caring for his family, I think

that’s where our similarities very much lie. We have the same compass that way—very loyal, very much hold dear our tribe. That’s where we find ourselves very similar, the love we have for our loved ones.”

The actor is currently preparing for one of his biggest roles yet in Disney’s “Freakier Friday,” a sequel to the classic “Freaky Friday.”

The film will see Lindsay Lohan return as Anna, now a mother to a teenage daughter, with Manny Jacinto playing a major role opposite her.

Looking ahead, Jacinto expressed his desire to eventually work in the Philippines. He revealed that he has been developing a story inspired by sabong, or cockfighting.

You may like: Manny Jacinto is open to doing a film in PH, eyes story about ‘sabong’ However, he clarified that the project is purely fictional and unrelated to the controversial case of missing “sabungeros” that has made headlines in recent years.

Julia Barretto proud of Gerald...

PAGE 13

his directorial debut in an episode of “Sins of the Father,” his girlfriend Julia Barretto is happy for the recent milestone in his entertainment career.

The actor took the director’s chair in an episode of “Sins of the Father,” where he engaged in multiple brutal fistfights and encounters with the henchmen of Roldan Rivera (Joko Diaz), in the hope of being included in the latter’s group.

Anderson is of course grateful for Barretto’s support, as seen in the obvious twinkle in his eyes when asked about what his girlfriend thought of his directorial debut.

“Happy, supportive, alam naman hindi ito biro. Siyempre, as much as makuha mo lahat

ng suporta ng mga tao sa paligid mo, napakaimportante [ang support niya] para sa mga ganitong responsibilities,” he said in a set visit for the series.

(She’s happy, supportive, especially knowing that this is not a joke. Of course, as much as you get the support of everyone around you. Her support is very important for these kinds of responsibilities.)

When asked if he is open to directing Barretto in a future project, Anderson said he would love to.

“Wala siyang choice. Kailangan sundin ‘yung utos ko [although] wala pa ako sa gan’un (She has no choice. She needs to follow my orders, although I’m not at that stage yet),” he said while laughing.

“I would also love to direct an action love story in the future,” he added.

Anderson and Barretto were hounded with breakup rumors early this year, but these were denied by the actor in an interview with Toni Gonzaga in June. He also lamented how netizens would jump to conclusions based on one’s “social media activities.”

“[It has been] five years. There were many bumps in the road, but I think they are all blessings because [they] made us even stronger. When you go through something like that and you see that your partner is emotionally strong, you know that it was worth it,” he said of their relationship. / ra

Photo from Manny Jacinto/Instagram

Inquirer.net

Michael V, the face and brains of the country's two most enduring comedy shows 'Bubble Gang' and 'Pepito Manaloto,' shares the unique challenges of doing comedy today. | Photo frm philstar.com

PhiliP s.

ChuA, md, FACs,

A 12-year-old died on July 18, 2025, from a rare braineating amoeba after swimming in Lake Murray in South Carolina, near a Columbia reservoir. The infection was caused by Naegleria fowleri amoeba, commonly found in warm freshwater, mainly in July, August, and September. The disease is called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). This is the first case reported since 2016.

“Most Naegleria fowleri infections have been linked to swimming in southern states. However, geographical areas where infections happen are changing. Since 2010, infections have been confirmed in Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Indiana, Maryland, and northern California. Climate change may be a contributing factor,” according to medical reports.

In early August, a 4-yearold child died from the same infection in Louisiana, the “cause is lurking in the water pipes of St. Bernard Parish, southeast of New Orleans.”

This amoeba is about 1/10 of the width of a human hair. Typically, the contaminated water enters the nose, enabling the amoeba to travel to the brain. This brain infection is rare but often fatal. Symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and can progress very fast to coma and death.

Avoid swimming in warm freshwater areas and use nose clips when swimming or diving.

Occasional survivors have been treated with a combination of amphotericin, fluconazole, B. rifampin, and (especially) miltefosine. Studies are ongoing to find more effective therapies, including mRNA vaccines and medications from natural sources.

House Bill 1150

This is a law that could affect all of us, sooner or later.

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R) signed into law in April House Bill 1150, prohibiting pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from owning or operating pharmacies in Arkansas, effective 2026, a first-of-its-kind law in the United States. Hopefully, all other States would follow to reduce drug prices and protect Americans from PBMs, who have been "taking advantage of lax regulations to abuse customers" and "inflate drug prices."

“Brain-eating” amoeba

How Canada, for one, could have much less costly medicines compared to the USA is a challenge President Trump has taken on. Many Americans have been ordering medications from Canada online, and those at the border drive to Canada to buy their medications.

Oxygen “booster” scam

You may have seen “Mr. Wonderful” on TV advertising Boost oxygen cannisters (around $15 each). Another brand is SPO2ER. Oxygen “boosters,” like the Oxygen Bars at airports selling oxygen inhalation therapy by the minute, are nothing but a money-making scam. People who can walk and speak in complete sentences well do not need any oxygen boost. The 21 percent ambient oxygen in the atmosphere is sufficient and healthier, and for free! Excess oxygen is unhealthy and can lead to oxygen toxicity that harms the respiratory system. An oxygen supplement is for people who have severe COPD, heart failure, and shortness of breath on exertion or following a rigorous exercise. Oxygen supplements do not do any good for healthy people and their pocketbooks.

Scams like this, and the trillion-dollar hyped-up unregulated food supplement industry victimizing unsuspecting consumers, are matters I wish Health Secretary RF Kennedy, Jr, would address to protect the public.

Microplastic hazards

In a previous column, I wrote about microplastics being in everybody’s brain, and in animals too, in the amount equivalent to the plastic in one plastic spoon (about 7 grams) in each individual, in ALL of us. These particles are also in our blood, liver, lungs, and other tissues, and cause inflammation, respiratory and cardiovascular problems, harm our microbiome (leading to gastrointestinal problems), adversely affect the immune system, and increase the risk for Alzheimer’s.

The air we breathe in is a great source of microplastics. Plastic-bottled water can contain hundreds of thousands of microplastics and nanoplastics, shed from the plastic bottles, food containers, plastic cutting boards, etc. Instead of wooden cutting boards, which are embedded with dirt, titanium cutting boards are healthier substitutes. Glassbottled water, which has passed through reverse osmosis, which filters out microplastics, is safe. Grocery items in plastic

containers are also sources of microplastics. Food containers at home should be made of glass and the lid, also of glass, or of silicone. For cookware, stainless steel is healthier than aluminum wares, because aluminum could leach into the food. Styrofoam leaches a lot of harmful chemicals, including Benzene, styrene, and phthalates, especially when the content is hot or being microwaved.

To avoid consuming more microplastics, one can use an under-sink or a countertop 5-9 stage water filtration system with Reverse Osmosis and a UVC lamp, modestly priced on Amazon.com

In this era of information and awareness, we have to adjust and reset our mindset, habits, and behavior for a better life.

Diet, health, longevity

While daily exercise (even Tai Chi, a non-strenuous activity, or walking) is very important to health, the food we eat is even more significant and overwhelmingly vital to our health and longevity. Those who watch the quality and quantity of their food will end up healthier (fewer ailments) in the end than those who exercise a lot but do not watch their diet. A wise combination of the two, plus stress management, minus alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs – an overall healthy lifestyle – would maximize our health and longevity to its full natural potential.

To a significant extent, our health and longevity, our destiny in general, are in our hands. Not fully, but greatly. * *

Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, David Letterman, distinguished educators, scientists, etc.(Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

One of the most transformative truths I’ve discovered in my journey of faith and finances is this: you reap what you sow. It’s not just a wise saying; it’s a spiritual law woven into the fabric of life.

When we grasp this truth, everything changes. If you want a harvest of joy, sow joy into someone else’s life. If you’re praying for loyal friends, be the kind of friend you long to have. And yes— even in our finances—what we plant with the right heart will eventually come back to us multiplied.

It’s tempting to clutch tightly to the little we have, especially when we’re down to our last dollar. But the Kingdom of God works differently. Instead of spending that last dollar in fear, try giving it away with joy, trusting that it will bless

The Power of Sowing and Reaping: A Spiritual Law for Victorious Living

someone else and open the door for blessing to return to you. This isn’t about giving to get; it’s about breaking the cycle of scarcity and partnering with God’s abundance.

In my own life, I’ve seen time and again how small seeds sown in faith lead to breakthroughs I never expected. Whether it’s money, time, kindness, or encouragement, the principle is the same: sow intentionally, reap abundantly.

If you’re ready to go deeper and heal the hidden money wounds that keep you from living a life of financial freedom and peace, I invite you to pick up a copy of my book Heal Your Money Wounds God’s Way. It’s packed with practical wisdom and biblical truths that can help you step into God’s best for your finances and your future.

Because when you learn to sow generously, you’ll find yourself reaping more than you ever imagined. *

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *

Kathy Current is a financial coach, mortgage advisor, and author of Heal Your Money Wounds God’s Way, where she combines over three decades of financial experience with timeless biblical wisdom. Kathy addresses real-life questions about God and money, helping readers find freedom and purpose in their financial lives.

H Mart Now Accepts NationsBenefits Flex Card to Promote Food-as-Medicine Access

Lyndhurst, NJ – H Mart, the largest Asian supermarket chain in the United States, is proud to announce a new integration with NationsBenefits®, a leading supplemental benefits and healthcare fintech solutions provider.

Through this partnership, eligible H Mart customers with participating health plans can now use their NationsBenefits® Flex Card at all H Mart locations to purchase fresh produce, specialty ingredients, and overthe-counter wellness items that reflect their cultural food traditions.

Powered by NationsBenefits’ real-time Basket Adjudication Service, the connection with H Mart allows members redeem their supplemental benefits right at store checkout for the culturally familiar foods they value.

H Mart President, Brian Kwon said, “At H Mart, we believe that culture begins at the table. Through our partnership with NationsBenefits, we are helping customers care for their health while staying connected to their identity and traditions.

This collaboration marks a meaningful step toward real change for the communities we serve.”

Michael Parker, Co-CEO of NationBenefits said, “At NationsBenefits, we know that culturally relevant foods are

integral to both health outcomes and daily life. Our partnership with H Mart makes it easier for members to access the ingredients they trust, right in their own neighborhoods or delivered to their doorsteps— reinforcing preventive care and long-term well-being.”

Through this partnership, H Mart goes beyond being a grocery destination — strengthening its role as a trusted partner in supporting the health and well-being of its customers.

H Mart remains committed to honoring the diverse cultural backgrounds and lifestyles of its shoppers while continuing to deliver a meaningful and inclusive shopping experience.

About H Mart

H Mart is the largest international supermarket chain in America, originally renowned as the pioneer of Asian food in America. Starting in 1982 with its first store opening in Woodside, Queens, and H Mart has grown to include more than 100 stores across the 18 different states; including 5 modern warehouse centers and processing facilities.

As America’s premier food destination, H Mart offers the full assortment of Asian groceries as well as a broad range of everyday essentials to complement its full-scale offering to that of a traditional supermarket. H Mart is dedicated to serve the immediate

surrounding communities as well as a broad range of multicultural customers.

H Mart’s success is due to a continuous commitment to the freshest ingredients in all its tasteful offerings, all the while never forgetting the importance of value. H Mart strives for the highest level of service and continuously works hard for customer satisfaction.

About NationsBenefits

NationsBenefits® is a leading provider of supplemental benefits and fintech solutions and outcomes to the healthcare industry. NationsBenefits partners with managed care organizations to provide innovative healthcare, data analytics, gapclosure, and fintech solutions aimed at driving growth, reducing costs, and delighting members. Combining its cutting- edge technology with targeted retailer partnerships, NationsBenefits empowers health plans to deliver impactful supplemental benefits to optimize member experiences and drive better health outcomes. By simplifying processes to make smarter choices and expanding access to benefits solutions, NationsBenefits aims to improve each of its members’ quality of life through its revolutionary and comprehensive suite of offerings. To learn more, visit NationsBenefits.com.