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Marikina City 1st District Rep. Marcelino Teodoro submitted yesterday his counter-affidavit to the Department of Justice (DOJ) in response to the complaints of rape by sexual assault and acts of lasciviousness filed against him by two policewomen.

Twenty-eight witnesses also filed affidavits to belie the allegations of Teodoro’s accusers, including police officers who are colleagues of the complainants. The two were assigned as Teodoro’s close-in security when he was mayor.

Teodoro was accompanied at the DOJ yesterday by his wife, Marikina Mayor Marjorie Ann Teodoro, and lawyer Alma Mallonga.

On Monday, the congressman filed perjury charges against the policewomen before the Manila prosecutor’s office.

He said he is also considering filing complaints against his accusers with the police Internal Affairs Service.

One of the most blatant and callous audacities of traditional politicians is to use ongoing calamities and disasters as platforms for their perennial “epal” publicity stunts. They come with a coterie of their PR staff and some alleged “envelopmental reporters” to be photographed and interviewed on air while distributing sardines and rice purchased with public funds.

These are the worst forms of cheap and shameless politicking. They want to earn “pogi” points by using government-funded aid. The Department of Social Welfare and Development and other government agencies should not allow themselves to be used and their agencies to give aid and comfort to these modern-day scribes and Pharisees who are just out to show off their pretended compassion and generosity at the expense of public funds. These trapos already used the AICS, AKAP, TUPAD, 4P’s and other government dole-outs allegedly in the last elections. Now, the same self-righteous and pretentious trapos are using the disasters and calamities as occasions to gain publicity stunts.

Even more reprehensible is the alleged corruption in the acceptance, allocation, and distribution of relief goods. There were reports of some high government officials receiving dollar contributions from other countries given by foreign charity organizations and private individuals but these ended up in the pockets of the said corrupt public officials. These are unforgivable offenses against the poor victims of disasters and calamities and should be considered crimes of economic sabotage to be punished with capital penalties. Others do not really pocket these aid funds but channel them to their favored constituents and local political leaders.

When traditional politicians suddenly appear in disaster-stricken areas and interfere in the distribution of goods and services to the victims, they usually come with their PR staff who coordinate with the local print and broadcast media reporters to give maximum coverage to these trapos. They make sure that these politicians are interviewed so that the whole nation shall know that they “care” for the people in distress. These super-rich trapos often come in their own choppers or in air assets borrowed from rich flood-control contractors. They exert utmost efforts to project an image of concern and care for the people using public funds in their transportation and representation.

Then, after a brief photo shoot, they would immediately leave and most probably go to the nearest resort to relax, eat, drink, and be merry with their local leaders and perhaps some naughty girls or very young boylets. These standard operating procedures are being repeated whether in the typhoon-stricken province of Masbate or the earthquake-hit northern Cebu. Many LGU officials are always in a hurry to declare their provinces, cities or municipalities under a state of calamity so that they can get hold of the huge calamity funds. Well, nothing wrong with that if they will really use the money for the intended purpose. But, we all know what usually happens.

There should be a law explicitly prohibiting politicians from interfering in acceptance, allocation, and distribution of relief funds. Also, any interference by a politician in the management and coordination, distribution, and safekeeping of relief goods and relief funds. The current practices by trapos in using calamities as platforms for political gimmickry should be criminalized. Trapos should be jailed for taking advantage of calamities and disasters as a platform for their traditional politics. They should be exposed and shamed for their audacious abuse of powers and public funds.

We, the “hoi polloi” should resist the abuses of dirty politicos and stand up against the shameless antics of trapos. We should start objecting to any attempt to make fools out of victims of disasters and calamities. It is high time that good men and good women stop evil deeds to proliferate in our times and milieu. They cannot fool all the people all the time. When politicians take advantage of calamities, we, the people, should stand up to denounce it.

Michael Bibat delivered a blistering 65 to grab the first-round lead at the ICTSI Del Monte Championship yesterday, upstaging a fast-starting Elee Bisera and a record-breaking Taewon Ha at the Del Monte Golf Club in Bukidnon.

Bibat, who has been largely off the radar since his last win at Eagle Ridge in 2022, showcased the form that once made him an Asian Games bronze medalist, piecing together a flawless 31-34 round that showcased his precision off the tee, sharp iron play and superb putting.

Starting on No. 10, Bibat picked up two early birdies before catching fire on the front, birdieing No. 1 and then rattling off three straight from No. 4. He capped his round by taming the par-5 ninth with another birdie, edging out Bisera by one.

Meanwhile, Chanelle Avaricio summoned the same brilliance that earned her a dominant Forest Hills triumph, shooting a bogey-free 67 to pace the ladies side.

The former Order of Merit champion carved a two-stroke lead over defending champion Daniella Uy after 18 holes, rekindling a budding rivalry that promises a thrilling climax over the next two rounds.

Navigating Del Monte’s tight, tree-lined fairways for the first time, Avaricio showed no signs of discomfort. After opening with a string of seven steady pars, she ignited her round with a birdie blitz.

The Supreme Court has dismissed the petition seeking to disqualify Rep. Edgar Erice (Caloocan City 2nd District) from running as representative of Caloocan City’s 2nd District during the 2025 elections.

In a 17-page decision penned by Associate Justice Henri Jean Paul Inting dated July 8, 2025, the high court’s en banc reversed the ruling of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), which had earlier declared Erice disqualified for allegedly violating the Omnibus Election Code.

The ruling was issued after the SC had earlier released a Temporary Restraining Order to stop Comelec from enforcing the disqualification while the case was under review.

The case stemmed from statements Erice made during media interviews in April 2024, where he claimed that the automated counting machines from Miru Systems (Miru) had never been used in any election worldwide.

He also questioned the P18-billion contract between the poll body and Miru, alleging a rigged bidding and claiming to have evidence of offshore accounts linked to Comelec officials, including its chairperson, George Garcia.

Comelec’s Second Division, upheld by the en banc, found his statements to be false and unverified, concluding they could cause public confusion, alarm and distrust in the electoral process.

According to the court, the disqualification was based on Section 261(z)(11) of the Omnibus Election Code, which prohibits spreading false or alarming information regarding election processes with the intent to disrupt.

Ruling. The high court, however, found a procedural flaw in the poll body’s decision.

The High Court said that under Section 1(c)(3)(viii) of Comelec Resolution No. 11046, a candidate can only be disqualified if a competent court has already found them guilty of violating the Omnibus Election Code or the Local Government Code in a separate proceeding.

The final decision finding the candidate guilty must come from an earlier case, and not the disqualification case itself.

‘Instead of following the foregoing procedure, it appears that respondent Comelec decided to directly rule on whether petitioner Erice is guilty of violation of Section 26l(z)(1 l ), an election offense, and after having done so, imposed the penalty of disqualification. This cannot be permitted,’ the court said.

‘The Comelec cannot skip the processes laid down in our laws, no matter how noble the cause of protecting the integrity of the elections may be,’ it added.

The high court emphasized that while Comelec has the authority to investigate election offenses, the power to decide if an offense was committed rests with the Regional Trial Courts.

In this instance, the Comelec did not observe the proper legal steps when it directly declared Erice guilty and then proceeded to disqualify him.

Furthermore, the high court noted that although spreading false or alarming information is an election offense, it is not among the grounds for disqualification under Section 68 of the Omnibus Election Code.

‘Considering that respondent Comelec had no power in the first place to disqualify a candidate on the ground of violation of Section 26l(z)(l 1) of the Omnibus Election Code, the Court shall refrain from determining whether petitioner Erice violated this provision,’ the court’s ruling read.

‘To reiterate, the determination of petitioner Erice’s guilt for this election offense should be made in the proper forum through an appropriate action,’ it added.

Underscoring the lively and vivid dynamism of the Olympic sport, ‘Leap High, Flip Strong!’ was chosen by the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines as the slogan for the 3rd Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships opening at the Manila Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom in Pasay City next month.

”Leap High, Flip Strong!’ is more than just a campaign slogan. It’s a rallying cry of our 24-million Filipino youth to mount a leap of faith especially in these challenging times, and to explore and soar high in search for growth and development,’ stressed GAP president Cynthia Carrion.

‘The slogan cultivates a positive mindset, encouraging people to believe in themselves and their abilities,’ said the gymnastics chief, who has taken the sports to unprecedented heights since taking over the local gymnastics body more than a decade ago.

The Philippine government is hopeful it can conclude ongoing tariff negotiations with the United States by next year, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

During the Senate committee on finance hearing on the DTI’s proposed budget, Trade Undersecretary Allan Gepty said the government hopes to conclude the ongoing negotiations with the US in relation to the 19 percent tariff being imposed on Philippine exports by next year.

‘Based on our last discussion, we’re looking at by next year, this will be completed. As to when next year, of course I could not give a definite period,’ he said.

The 19-percent tariff took effect on Aug. 7.

Earlier, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the Philippines is seeking an exemption for coconut exports from the 19 percent tariff imposed by the US.

The Philippines is also seeking to be exempted from the US’ planned imposition of tariffs on its semiconductor imports.

If the US decides to impose a levy on its semiconductor imports, Gepty said around $2.5 billion to $3 billion worth of Philippine exports would be affected.

Philippine semiconductor exports to the US are currently not covered by the 19 percent tariff.

In the same event, Roque said the Philippine government expects to sign the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in November.

She said the signing of the FTA has been tentatively set on Nov. 24.

Once signed, the CEPA with the UAE will be the Philippines’ first free trade deal with the Middle East.

Gepty said the CEPA would cover the Philippines’ products of interest such as banana, pineapple, other tropical fruits, electronics and machineries, as well as transport equipment.

He said the Philippines has also applied for accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

The multilateral trade agreement sets high standards for its member countries.

Currently, the CPTPP is composed of Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, Vietnam and the United Kingdom.

The Philippines is also working on other FTAs.

Gepty said there are ongoing negotiations for an FTA with the European Union, as well as with Chile.

There are also ongoing talks for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations – Canada FTA.

Gepty said the Philippines is also working on a bilateral FTA with Canada and Israel.

Jose Rizal University overpowered San Sebastian College, 59-46, Wednesday to stay Final Four hunt in NCAA Season 101 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Sean Salvador erupted for a game-best 22 points as the Bombers claimed their third win in five starts, or just half a game behind Group B co-leaders San Beda and St. Benilde, both totting 3-1 cards.

JRU coach Nani Epolundan later said it was all about hustle.

‘I just kept reiterating to my players that since we’re smaller than them, we shouldn’t be outhustled,’ said Epondulan. ‘If there’s anyone who should be hungrier, it should be us.’

Truly, JRU craves to redeem itself this season after a forgettable performance last year when they finished 10th and dead last.

The Stags fell to 1-4.

In the other game, Letran threw the defensive gauntlet on University of Perpetual Help and hammered out a 63-56 win.

It was the second win a row for the Knights after disappointingly starting the season with three straight defeats.

Jimboy Estrada erupted for 23 points but it was Letran’s defense that stymied UPHSD’s bid to stay unbeaten.

The Altas stumbled to their first loss after four consecutive triumphs.

The scores:

First Game

JRU 59 – Salvador 22, Lozano 11, Duque 8, Laurenaria 7, Panapanaan 5, Garupil 2, Sarmiento 2, Benitez 2, Peñaverde 0, Castillo 0, Herrera 0.

SSC-R 46 – Dela Rama 9, Castor 8, Ricio 8, Cuajao 6, Gabat 4, Nepacena 4, Dimaunahan 4, Velasco 2, Cruz 1, Gomez De Liaño 0, Cabilla 0.

Quarterscores: 8-16; 25-23; 44-32; 59-46

Second Game

Letran 63 – Estrada 23, Cuajao 16, Omega 5, Manalili 4, Santos 4, Gammad 4, Tapenio 3, Buensalida 2, Rosilio 2, Gazzingan 0.

UPHSD 56 – Sleat 16, Gojo Cruz 10, Abis 9, Orgo 6, Casinilio 6, Nuñez 5, Boral 2, Duremdes 2, Tulabut 0, Alcantara 0, Maglupay 0, Pagulayan 0.

Quarterscores: 18-10; 32-20; 50-45; 63-56

The league recently conducted their yearly preseason polling among General Managers and the results were released last Friday, PH time. GMs cannot vote for their own teams nor their players in this survey.

In response to which team will win the championship this season, GMs picked the OKC Thunder to repeat with 80% of the votes. The last team to win back-to-back NBA titles was the Golden State Warriors in 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 seasons. This is a big challenge for OKC as other title contenders will try to contradict the poll results.

The Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic (67%) is the overwhelming pick to reclaim the MVP crown. If ever, he will be the 8th foreign born player to win the award consecutively. The previous seven awardees were international players. This could be Jokic’s fourth MVP in six seasons.

A far second in the MVP poll was LAL’s Luka Doncic, with 10%, OKC’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with 8% and San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama with 7%.

As per GMs, the top four playoff seeds in each conference according to order will be Cleveland, New York, Orlando and Atlanta for the East and Oklahoma City, followed by Denver, Houston and Minnesota for the West.

A young Orlando Magic team is expected by GMs to be the most improved team. Atlanta, boasting an improved frontline with the arrival of Kristaps Porzingis, follows. San Antonio comes in third in the survey.

If they are to be believed, Miami’s Erik Spoelstra, recently named head coach of the US men’s national basketball team, was picked as the best coach, getting 52% of the votes. OKC’s Mark Diagneault comes in second with 34% votes.

No surprise here. 29 of the 30 GMs voted Cooper Flagg (DAL), this year’s top pick, to win Rookie of the Year honors. Philadelphia’s VG Edgecomb was the only other player that had a vote.

Wembanyama was the favorite pick last season to win the defensive player award before he was put on sick bay after a deep vein thrombosis diagnosis. It’s still Wemby this time, with Rudy Gobert (MIN) and Evan Mobley (CLE) tied for a far second.

GMs voted players by position. SGA was voted as the best point guard, Anthony Edwards (MIN) for the best shooting guard, Luka as the best small forward, Giannis Antetokounmpo (MIL) as the best power forward and Jokic as the top center.

In 2016, Adolfo Rosal started his journey as a loan consultant, driven not by comfort but by the hope of giving his family a better life. Back then, he and his loved ones were renting a small home, working hard every day and holding on to their faith in God.

Nearly a decade later, Adolfo’s story stands as a powerful reminder that anything is possible when you stay dedicated and believe in what you do. Through his partnership with Global Dominion, and by living with the same values that guided him from the start ‘sipag, tiyaga at pananalig sa Diyos,’ he turned his once simple dreams into remarkable milestones.

From being a renter, Adolfo is now a proud homeowner of three houses, owns more than two vehicles, and has provided his family with a life of comfort and security. He has also fulfilled another dream, sending his child to one of the top private schools in their area. Beyond his personal achievements, Adolfo has already helped more than 500 clients throughout his journey as a loan consultant, fulfilling their dreams of owning cars and homes while also assisting many of them in expanding their businesses through Global Dominion’s financing solutions. His dedication and consistency have made him one of the most trusted loan consultants in his area and a proud member of Global Dominion’s growing community of successful Ka-Partners.

Of course, Adolfo’s success didn’t come easily. He faced financial challenges, long days of client visits and moments of doubt, but he never gave up. Each obstacle became a stepping stone that strengthened his determination to move forward.

Today, Adolfo continues to serve as a bridge between clients and Global Dominion, connecting people to opportunities that can change their lives. What makes his story even more inspiring is that his child now walks the same path, proudly joining him as a fellow Loan Consultant, a true symbol of legacy, faith and shared success.

Proof that great things happen with hard work, courage and faith, Adolfo Rosal’s journey is a story of transformation and hope. He turned struggles into success and perseverance into progress. With determination and the right partner, #PwedePala. Adolfo and Global Dominion continue to inspire others to believe that growth is always possible. Together, we rise. #KaPartnerMoSaPagAngat.

Security Bank Corp. has opened a new branch in Bacoor, Cavite, marking another step in its effort to extend its ‘BetterBanking’ experience to more Filipinos outside Metro Manila.

The newly inaugurated site is the bank’s 362nd branch nationwide and its 11th in Cavite, one of Southern Luzon’s most rapidly developing urban centers.

Located in a high-traffic commercial area, the Bacoor branch provides convenient access to a full suite of financial services for both individuals and businesses.

Security Bank said the expansion supports the city’s growing community of entrepreneurs, professionals and families amid Bacoor’s continued transformation into a vibrant hub for commerce and residential growth.

‘We’ve reimagined the traditional branch experience to provide a seamless blend of personal and digital interactions,’ said Leslie Cham, executive vice president and head of Security Bank’s Branch Banking Group.

‘From welcoming, low counters that encourage conversations to integrated digital tools that make transactions faster and more secure – every detail reflects our commitment to putting customers first,’ Cham said.

The branch design reflects Security Bank’s push to combine human connection with digital efficiency, offering clients the flexibility to manage their finances in person or online.

Last week, the bank announced that it opened its 361st branch in Angeles City, Pampanga. This followed the opening of the Naic and Antipolo branches in September.