Category: Philippine Star

The Cebu City Council has appealed to the Supreme Court (SC) and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Cebu City Chapter (IBP-CCC) to begin constructing a judiciary complex on a lot donated by the city government at the South Road Properties (SRP).

The appeal was made through a resolution approved by the council following a privilege speech by Councilor Sisinio Andales, himself a lawyer. His speech came a day after a joint inspection by the city government found the Qimonda IT Center-which currently houses the city’s courts-unsafe for occupancy.

A joint team from the Office of the Building Official (OBO), City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC), and structural engineers from the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) assessed that the building poses serious risks to both the public and its employees, recommending its immediate evacuation.

Supreme Court Associate Justice Ramon Paul Hernando, along with other court officials, also inspected the Qimonda IT Center on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.

The structure sustained severe damage from the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck northern Cebu on September 30.

In his speech, Andales recalled that the Marcelo Fernan Palace of Justice at the Capitol compound was also declared unsafe after the 2013 earthquake. This forced the transfer of all 30 Cebu City trial courts to the privately owned Qimonda IT Center, for which the SC has reportedly been paying around P1.2 million in monthly rent.

‘Although functional, it was far from being an ideal one,’ Andales said.

He added that the Supreme Court had long expressed its intention to build a dedicated judiciary complex equipped with modern and comfortable courtrooms in Cebu. In 2019, then-mayor Tomas Osmeña, representing the Cebu City Government, and Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez signed a deed of donation for a 1.5-hectare lot at the SRP for the project, which was envisioned to house all courts in Cebu City, including the Court of Appeals.

However, despite the urgent need for improved court facilities, Andales said the plan has remained unimplemented, leaving the courts still operating in Qimonda. He added that the monthly rent has since increased to at least P1.4 million.

‘The dream of a judiciary complex-secure, accessible, and dignified-remains only on paper,’ he said.

In his appeal, Andales urged the Supreme Court to coordinate with the IBP-Cebu Chapter, the Executive Judge, and the Office of Mayor Nestor Archival to begin utilizing the donated SRP lot and start the construction of the judiciary building.

He also proposed redirecting the monthly rental payments for the Qimonda IT Center toward funding the project’s initial construction phase.

‘Let us show the people of Cebu that justice is not only served-it is housed in a place that reflects its importance,’ Andales said.

‘This is not merely a matter of infrastructure; it is a matter of institutional respect. Our judges, our lawyers, our litigants, and our citizens deserve a space that honors the gravity of law and the sanctity of due process,’ he added.

Following his appeal, the council approved Andales’ motion calling on the Supreme Court and the IBP-Cebu Chapter, among others, to begin constructing the judiciary complex.

The IBP-Cebu City Chapter already passed a resolution appealing to the SC to expedite the construction of the long-awaited judiciary complex at the SRP.

‘A purpose-built, secure, and properly managed court facility is indispensable to the efficient administration of justice and aligns squarely with the goals of the Supreme Court’s Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 (SPJI), particularly its pillars of judicial efficiency, access, and innovation,’ the IBP-CCC statement read.

It was earlier reported that in 2010, the city’s legislative body passed a resolution approving the donation of a 7,123-square-meter lot at the northeast side of the SRP for the Court of Appeals-Cebu Station building. Both the Supreme Court and the city government formalized this through a Memorandum of Agreement that same year.

The 15,000-square-meter property designated for the judiciary complex is located at the southwest portion of the SRP, identified as Lot 9 of the Consolidated Subdivision Plan.

Soldiers seized four B40 anti-tank rockets and two grenade projectiles that villagers found in an abandoned residential yard in Barangay Lagandang, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, on Wednesday, October 8.

Ordnance disposal experts from the Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion, under Lt. Col. Tristan Vallescas, immediately brought the rockets and rifle-propelled grenades to a safe area for proper disposal.

Brig. Gen. Michael Santos, commander of the Army’s 603rd Infantry Brigade, told reporters on Thursday, October 9, that the operation that resulted in the confiscation of the explosives was assisted by members of the Joint Peace and Security Team.

The JPST is composed of soldiers, policemen, and members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, together maintaining law and order in areas where there are MILF bastions.

Residents of Isulan, among them traditional Moro leaders actively supporting the anti-terror campaign of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, had told reporters that the anti-tank rockets and rifle grenades were left in Sitio Kimondo in Barangay Lagandang by members of the now-weakened Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

More than 300 members of the allied BIFF and Dawlah Islamiya, both fomenting hatred for non-Muslims and tagged in all deadly bombings in Central Mindanao since 2014, had surrendered in batches in the past three years to different units of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, which has jurisdiction over hinterland and seafront towns in Sultan Kudarat.

Major Gen. Donald Gumiran, commander of the 6th ID, said on Thursday that they are thankful to the residents of Lagandang for reporting promptly to the 7th IB their discovery of the rockets and grenades in wooden boxes piled in a yard owned by a certain Mutin Ali, who reportedly relocated elsewhere earlier.

President Marcos has signed the Expanded Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System Act into law, paving the way for more campuses to rise in various parts of the country.

Under Republic Act 12310, more campuses will be established to offer Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics or STEM education in line with the government’s efforts to produce more Filipino scientists and innovators.

The law mandates the establishment of at least two PSHS campuses in every administrative region, including one in the Negros Island Region, and consolidates all existing campuses under a unified system of governance

The Expanded PSHS law reflects the government’s commitment to make premier STEM education more accessible to Filipino students with exceptional aptitude in science and mathematics, while ensuring that the Philippine Science High School System remains a symbol of academic excellence, innovation and public service.

The PSHS System is an attached agency of the Department of Science and Technology.

The expansion allows more talented youth to experience world-class STEM learning and to be part of a community that nurtures curiosity, creativity and scientific leadership.

Chaired by the DOST secretary, the PSHS board is composed of representatives from the Department of Education, University of the Philippines, Congress, the Alumni Association and the private sector.

Recognized as specialized science educators, PSHS teachers are exempt from civil service examinations and may extend their service under the Magna Carta for S and T Personnel, ensuring the retention of top STEM talent.

The law also grants tax and duty exemptions on donations and imported research equipment, enabling more resources to be directed toward innovation, research and student development.

Cebu Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro, marked her first 100 days in office by highlighting transparency, service delivery, and people-first leadership as a vital part of her administration.

Baricuatro, the 28th governor of Cebu and the second female to hold the Capitol’s highest seat, said openness and accountability remain her guiding principles.

‘I’ve said this from Day One: true leadership is measured by service, integrity, and the courage to do what’s right even when it’s difficult,’ Baricuatro posted on her official Facebook page.

Baricuatro won over 1.1 million Cebuanos who elected her in May 2025, when she ran under the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) and defeated former governor Gwendolyn Garcia.

The governor identified three core priorities pursued during her first 100 days: service delivery and accountable governance, inclusive growth and investment, and people-centered leadership.

Among the reforms she cited were streamlined frontline services at the Capitol, faster health and social welfare responses, and tighter oversight on public funds to ensure transparency.

Baricuatro said every peso in government should be accounted for and must directly benefit families, barangays, and communities across Cebu.

On economic development, she underscored her expanded support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), along with farmers and coastal communities.

Infrastructure and digital connectivity investments have also been initiated to widen access to education, health, and commerce.

In the course of her governorship and as what she mentioned in her State of the Province Address (SOPA) in August 29, she highlighted the hiring of 25 new doctors and 160 nurses, with more to follow, to boost health care delivery across the province.

In addition, her term also reactivated the Provincial Health Board, with broader membership and expertise to guide health programs.

Disaster resilience was strengthened after the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) was elevated into a full-fledged department.

Revelations

At the outset, Baricuatro bared what she called ‘disturbing findings’ from the previous administration-P1.1 billion in payables from unfunded projects, obligations without budget cover, and infrastructure built without bidding.

Baricuatro also flagged neglected hospitals lacking basic supplies and short on manpower, idle education funds worth over P1 billion that should have gone to classrooms and teachers, and questionable environmental permits issued to non-compliant firms.

On the other hand, she has ordered a one-month suspension of all quarrying, sand and gravel extraction, and special disposal operations in Cebu to review permit compliance and tighten enforcement.

The move comes amid mounting public complaints and aims to ensure stricter environmental accountability.

Accomplishments

Recently, the Capitol acquired its first-ever Sea Ambulance, aimed at ensuring swift emergency transport for patients in Cebu’s island municipalities.

The Sea Ambulance project was made possible through the PDRRMO in partnership with stakeholders, reinforcing the Capitol’s focus on timely rescue operations.

Fisherfolk communities also benefited, as the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) turned over two fishing boats to the province, which were later distributed to the local governments of Danao City and Medellin.

Her administration also established the Cebu People’s Assistance Center (CPAC) through Executive Order No. 5. CPAC serves as a 24/7 one-stop help desk where Cebuanos can access provincial services, emergency assistance, and to lodge complaints or concerns.

Baricuatro’s early tenure was also tested by the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that hit northern Cebu on September 30, killing a total of 72 people.

She commended the response of Cebuanos during the tragedy, saying the spirit of bayanihan proved stronger than fear and despair. ‘The people of Cebu did not fail me, nor their fellow Cebuanos in the north; together, we stood strong,’ she said.

Looking ahead, Baricuatro vowed to sustain reforms, expand inclusive economic opportunities, and maintain open collaboration with local governments, civil society, and private partners.

“I will stay focused on the people and the province we all love. God bless Cebu, and may we continue working together for a brighter future,” her post concluded.

It’s all systems go for an 11-day tennis and lifestyle festival billed to be the sport’s largest event in the country.

Taking place from October 10-19, at the CSA Tennis Stadium in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, Gentry Open 2025 will bring together top Filipino and international players, emerging young athletes and tennis fans from across the nation.

Designed to merge competition with culture, the Gentry Open 2025 will showcase the very best of Philippine tennis while highlighting wellness, community, and brand collaboration.

With Palawan Pawnshop, Palawan Express and Palawan Pay as official event and tournament partners, the competition underscores a shared commitment to elevate sports development and expand opportunities for Filipino athletes nationwide.

The event will feature men’s and women’s singles and doubles divisions, exhibition matches, junior showcases, and interactive off-court experiences. Visitors can also enjoy wellness zones, lifestyle booths and family-friendly attractions, making the tournament not just a competition but a holistic celebration of health and community spirit.

‘The Gentry Open is more than a tournament – it’s a movement to elevate tennis as a mainstream sport in the Philippines,’ said Hayb Anzures, president of Gentry. ‘Through the support of Palawan Express and our Platinum Sponsors, we’re creating a stage that unites passion, performance, and purpose.’

The event is presented by Great Wall Motor Philippines. Platinum sponsors include Hiessence, Purse Maison, Mobile Cart, Primoshine, Sole Avenue, Dear Face, PDAX, Darling’s Fine Jewels, Luxetrust by Amethyst, The Watch Reserve and Guapo Car Care Solutions.

Beyond competition, the event aims to position Bulacan as an emerging hub for tennis and sports tourism, setting the foundation for what is envisioned to become an annual national tradition.

In one of his last acts as secretary of justice, Jesus Crispin Remulla signed the Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) on officials under investigation over the flood control project anomalies.

Department of Justice spokesperson Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano confirmed to reporters on Wednesday evening, October 8, that Remulla had signed the ILBO for all officials requested by the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI).

Bureau of Immigration Spokesperson Dana Sandoval also told Philstar.com in a message that the bureau has received the ILBO.

“Their names have been immediately included in our centralized database and their travels will be strictly monitored,” Sandoval said.

Remulla is set to take his oath as Ombudsman on Thursday, October 9, ending his tenure as secretary of justice.

The flood control project anomalies are being probed by the agency headed by Remulla, along with the ICI.

Earlier, the ICI requested an ILBO against more than two dozen current and former lawmakers and officials in the probe into the flood control anomalies.

What is an ILBO? An ILBO is a directive to immigration authorities to monitor individuals from leaving, typically those who are subjects of ongoing investigations or legal cases.

It differs from a hold departure order, which is a court-issued directive preventing an individual from leaving the country.

Playing the titular character of TBA Studios’ “Quezon” has lit a fire in Jericho Rosales to care more deeply about the country.

Manuel Quezon is Rosales’ first film role in seven years, and the expected last entry in the “Bayaniverse” franchise will explore the character’s rise in power from lawyer to president.

At a press conference for “Quezon” last October 7 at the historic Manila Hotel, Rosales was asked about what he discovered about himself in shooting the film, particularly about love of country.

Rosales began by acknowledging the weight of the question and admitted to not initially being a fan of history. He used to think it was a “boring” subject where he would end up sleeping during classes.

“Because of this film,” Rosales said, “Parang nabuhay ‘yung pagka-Pilipino ko.”

The actor acknowledged that TJ Trinidad was initially attached to portray Quezon until the latter stepped away from acting. Jericho shared TJ visited the set one time in a show of support.

Looking back at when director Jerrold Tarog asked him to play Quezon, Rosales – who was shooting “Lavender Fields” at the time – agreed without hesitation. Jericho recalled that the director advised him to read the script first before agreeing to play the historic role of one of the country’s presidents.

“I understand now how important history is, and the reason I fell asleep in class is because I didn’t care about the country,” Rosales continued.

The actor explained that love and care is what moves a person, and stressed the importance of “Quezon” reminding everyone to take responsibility about learning our political history and the people we elected.

Understanding what we love the most about the country through the lens of history is what will make Filipinos proud again, Rosales added.

He compared the concept of corruption to a pimple – the byproduct of staying up, oil, and everything consumed – and asked that people rewatch the film’s trailer numerous times because takeaways can be seen from there alone.

“All the words that [Tarog] selected and cut has a meaning,” Rosales went on. “Saan ba nanggagaling ito, bakit ba nakakalusot?”

Rosales stressed it is not one person’s duty to solve corruption but rather of an entire nation, calling for transparency and a detailed plan because it is the people’s taxes at stake.

“We serve each other. How do we solve [corruption]? We all have the answers, not one man, not one person,” Rosales ended.

Cold and dry winds are expected soon as the state weather bureau has declared the end of the southwest monsoon season.

‘This marks the termination of the rainy season over the western sections of Luzon and the Visayas,’ the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said.

‘The country is now transitioning to the northeast monsoon season, which will be observed and declared in the coming weeks,’ it added.

During this season, temperatures gradually drop across northern and Central Luzon toward

the end of the year.

The southwest monsoon has been weakening over the past weeks, accompanied by a gradual shift in the country’s weather pattern, PAGASA said.

Typical indicators of the transition to the northeast monsoon season are the change brought by the stronger high-pressure system over East Asia and the southward migration of the intertropical convergence zone.

Gretchen Ho has more questions, especially on the Philippines as a high risk country, after she received a call from the Norwegian ambassador.

Gretchen’s post about her senior citizens kin being snubbed at a foreign exchange counter in Norway’s Oslo Airport went viral yesterday.

The host said her kin were denied to exchange their $300 for krone upon hearing that they were from the Philippines, citing corruption and money laundering.

The ambassador told Ho that he was surprised about the incident and said it should not have taken place. He will be meeting with the Norwegian foreign ministry to address the issue.

Ho shared the context behind her viral post. She cited the Philippines being removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) list in February this year after four years on the list.

The FATF is an intergovernmental body established by G7 countries that combat money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing. The Philippines was included in the FATF grey list in 2021.

Gretchen asked in light of the recent incident if the Philippines is back on the FATF high-risk list for money laundering and dirty money, and if it is not the case, she wondered if it was the financial institution’s internal policy on tourists from the Philippines. She also expressed concern on how this incident will influence Filipinos’ future travels.

‘We want to get some clarity on this, if there is a new policy, given recent events, or just a failure to update and disseminate information. I believe getting some clarity would help not just our family, but other Filipinos who have shared similar experiences at the same airport in Oslo, saying they have been declined foreign exchange services upon knowing their country of origin is the Philippines.

‘So are we back on the ‘high-risk’ list for money laundering? Or is this an overeager clerk who was simply not updated on the grey list?’ Gretche wrote.

The issue of corruption has been the talk of the town, with the Senate and Congress conducting their own investigations on the alleged anomalous government flood control projects.

Investigations are still ongoing, with many Filipinos watching the livestreamed sessions wondering when will there be individuals and parties, including high-profile personalities, found guilty and put to jail.

The September 21 rallies in Metro Manila and key cities in the country drove thousands of people from all walks of life chanting an end to systemic corruption.

Another wave of protests are already planned on November 30, the 162nd birth anniversary of Filipino revolutionary hero Andres Bonifacio.

Two Customs brokers will be detained for refusing to identify suspects involved in smuggling operations in Cebu.

Cited in contempt by the Senate agriculture panel on Monday, brokers Lujin Tenero and Brenda de Sagun will be detained at the Senate or the Pasay City Jail.

Tenero and De Sagun are linked to consumer goods trading companies operating at Subic ports.

Inconsistencies in their testimonies prompted Sen. Francis Pangilinan, chair of the Senate agriculture, food and agrarian reform committee, to cite them in contempt.

Senators are probing Tenero and De Sagun for P40 million and P59 million worth of smuggled agricultural products, respectively.

Pangilinan and Sen. JV Ejercito urged the brokers to reveal details and apply as state witnesses.

Economic sabotage through agricultural smuggling is punishable by life in prison, they stressed.

At the inquiry, Tenero claimed that a certain ‘Carlos’ approached him to facilitate container imports.

‘All we are asking for is Mr. Carlos’ last name. And you refuse to answer. You are hereby cited in contempt of this committee,’ Pangilinan said.

Tenero recalled meeting Carlos at the Subic pier, where he signed documents for four containers as part of his broker duties.

He said he trusted Carlos as an authorized representative.

De Sagun, for her part, clarified that she had lent her client’s license to facilitate the import of goods, but denied knowing ‘Mr. Vicente,’ the person who allegedly rented it.

Several containers escorted by personnel of the Bureau of Customs were left unattended at a warehouse, raising questions about procedural lapses, Agriculture Undersecretary Carlos Carag and BOC officials said earlier.