Category: Philippines Daily Inquirer

Vice President Sara Duterte’s lawyers in her impeachment trial said on Thursday that they respect former law dean Ralph Sarmiento’s decision not to stand as a defense witness.

Sarmiento declined the defense’s invitation to testify, saying it was necessary ‘to preserve the independence of my constitutional law scholarship and the impartiality of my legal views and opinions.’

‘We respect Dean Sarmiento’s personal decision and appreciate his initial consideration of our invitation,’ defense counsel and spokesperson Atty. Michael Poa told reporters in a text message.

The defense also wished the law professor well.

‘We wish him well in his continued contributions to constitutional discourse,’ Poa said.

Sarmiento was listed among the defense witnesses in Duterte’s alleged unexplained wealth.

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) allowed former House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez’s staff to attend to his needs inside his cell, its personnel told the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Thursday.

The Third Division is handling the plunder case against Romualdez stemming from alleged kickbacks from infrastructure projects worth P7.44 billion.

During the court hearing, Jail Superintendent Maria Lourdes Pacion confirmed that Romualdez’s staff was allowed inside his cell.

Associate Justice Karl Miranda, chair of the Third Division, asked why this was being allowed. Pacion said it was due to Romualdez’s mental health condition and the BJMP’s lack of personnel.

‘We cannot hire any more person for the personal needs of Congressman Romualdez,’ Pacion said. ‘As for my assessment, his mental state is not that stable.’

Miranda also asked if this was allowed under BJMP rules.

‘We allow that if the patient is not in good condition,’ Pacion told the court. ‘It’s a case-to-case basis and the prerogative of the warden to assess what is needed for a certain PDL (person deprived of liberty).’

Miranda asked if other PDLs had been given the same consideration.

Pacion said there had been instances when it was allowed, but no other PDLs had been permitted to have their personal staff inside their cells aside from Romualdez.

‘Not anymore, your honor,’ Pacion said in response to Miranda. ‘Previously, [it was allowed] because there was a patient who needed bedside care.’

‘All PDLs are equal,’ Miranda said. ‘Let me stress that.’

Ramon Tulfo’s reports that Romualdez could go in and out of jail prompted the Sandiganbayan Third Division to hold a hearing to check on the lawmaker’s condition in detention.

Tulfo, who has since retracted his post, had said that Romualdez was riding in an ambulance and the brownouts were taking place so he would not be seen going out and coming back to his cell.

The columnist said that ‘no such thing happened when the facts started coming in yesterday.’

Students of Leyte Normal University (LNU) in this city are now allowed to wear appropriate civilian attire on campus following the temporary suspension of the university’s prescribed uniform due to rising temperatures.

The LNU Supreme Student Council (SSC) said that the adjustment took effect on Tuesday in response to the high heat index forecast by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

Despite the suspension, the more than 7,000 students are still required to observe the grooming standards stipulated in the 2022 edition of the university’s student handbook and wear their identification cards at all times for proper identification and campus security.

The SSC said the arrangement would remain in effect until further notice.

The move came as several schools in Tacloban City and other parts of Eastern Visayas adjusted their learning arrangements to protect students from prolonged exposure to extreme heat.

Some schools have continued implementing online or modular classes, while others have suspended face-to-face classes, as temperatures remain high in the region.

Pagasa placed Tacloban City’s heat index within the 33°C to 41°C ‘extreme caution’ category, indicating the possibility of heat cramps and heat exhaustion, particularly among those engaged in prolonged outdoor activities.

Health authorities have advised the public to limit strenuous outdoor activities, stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during periods of intense heat.

The League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP), headed by South Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., reaffirmed its support for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Tamayo assured the LPP’s support for the BARMM during his visit to Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua on Wednesday to personally congratulate him.

Tamayo, who served as president of the ruling Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, said continuity in governance is important as Macacua assumes leadership of the Bangsamoro region.

‘First of all, I want to congratulate the chief minister. I am also happy that there will be continuity because that is very important. In governance, continuity is essential,’ Tamayo told reporters here.

He expressed confidence in Macacua’s leadership, saying he hoped the new chief minister would sustain the programs he started as the interim chief minister for the next five years of the first elected Bangsamoro Parliament.

‘I hope he will be able to fulfill his responsibilities and manage things well. I have great confidence in our newly-elected chief minister,’ he added.Tamayo was the first governor to visit Macacua following his election.He said the visit was also meant to reaffirm the unity and cooperation of provincial governments within the Bangsamoro region.’As president of the League of Provinces of the Philippines, I personally assured him of the support, unity and continued cooperation of the provinces for our brothers and sisters in the BARMM,’ he said.

We’re already feeling the heat, and unfortunately, things are only expected to get hotter with El Niño on the horizon. You’d think living in a tropical country would have prepared us for this, but no matter how many summers we’ve survived, having our clothes stick to our skin, hair cling to our necks, and makeup melt before lunchtime never gets any more pleasant.

While we can’t do much about the weather, we can certainly have a little fun dressing for it. And no, that doesn’t mean resigning ourselves to the same old sando and shorts every day. From clever styling tricks to accessories that deserve a place in your bag, here’s how to survive the sweltering days ahead without sacrificing style.

Let your clothes breathe

When the weather calls for wearing as little as possible, cotton and linen are your best friends. Look for relaxed silhouettes that allow air to circulate, preferably with enough personality that you don’t have to rely on layers to make an outfit interesting.Instead of reaching for your usual plain sando, try one with unexpected details. Ziv Rei Alexi’s piece, for example, features softly gathered fabric and an oversized floral embellishment at the neckline. Available at Qurio Studios, which carries exclusive designs, it’s the kind of top that makes even a simple pair of trousers or shorts feel like a proper outfit.

Evita-Peroni-Everyday-Comfort-Flat-Clip

Evita Peroni Everyday Comfort Flat Clip

Get your hair off your neck

Few things are more irritating than having your hair stick to your neck on a humid day. A claw clip is perhaps the easiest way to get it out of the way without ruining a fresh blowout or flattening your curls. Unlike hair ties, it’s also less likely to leave those annoying creases.

Quality matters, though. As someone with thick, heavy hair, I’ve learned that not every clip can hold everything securely. Look for a strong spring and a good grip, so you’re not constantly readjusting it.

And here’s a tip I wish I’d discovered sooner: flat claw clips. Traditional ones tend to dig into your scalp when you lean back, whether you’re lying down in Pilates, doing yoga, or resting your head against a car seat. Flat versions sit closer to your head, making them much more comfortable.

Sunnies-Studios-Paloma-and-Yara-Sunglasses

Sunnies Studios Paloma and Yara Sunglasses

Bring your own shades

A good pair of sunglasses is practically a necessity when the sun is this unforgiving. And beyond their practical purpose, they’re one of the easiest ways to give even the simplest outfit a little more personality.

For something with a little more character, Sunnies Studios’ Paloma and Yara sunglasses are worth checking out. With their thick frames, oversized shapes, and ’70s-inspired silhouettes, they have that very city-chic look that feels both retro and current.

I particularly love how substantial they feel. There’s a satisfying weight to the frames that makes them feel sturdy and well-made. Pair them with a plain white shirt, linen trousers, or a simple tank, and you’ve already done most of the styling. They’re the kind of sunglasses you’ll want to wear even when you’re not trying to hide from the sun.

A little fan service

Portable electric fans are great, but can we admit they’re not always the cutest accessories? Some are so loud you’d think there was a tiny airplane engine running beside you. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably forgotten to charge yours, leaving you with a rather useless piece of plastic when you need it most.

I’m convinced the good old folding fan deserves a comeback. No batteries, no charging, and plenty of opportunities to have fun with prints and colors. Take the Pucci Marmo Print fan, with its signature swirling patterns in shades of pink. It’s as much a fashion accessory as it is a way to cool yourself down. It’s practically a fashion accessory in its own right.I wouldn’t be surprised if folding fans became the next accessory everyone starts carrying around. After all, there’s something rather chic about dramatically whipping one open when the heat gets a little too much.

Summer-Fridays_-Jet-Lag-Skin-Soothing-Hydration-Mist

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Skin Soothing Hydration Mist

Keep your makeup light

As much as I love a full beat, wearing a full face of makeup in this weather can feel like a decision you’ll regret by lunchtime. Between the sweat, humidity, and inevitable oiliness, keeping everything in place becomes a challenge.

Consider swapping heavy foundation for a lightweight skin tint or BB cream that evens out your complexion without covering it completely. Apply concealer only where you need extra coverage, and try cream or liquid blush for a fresh flush without piling on powder.

For makeup that needs to survive a commute, waterproof mascara and a good setting spray are worth having. Keep blotting papers handy, too. You don’t have to give up your usual routine entirely, but a lighter hand can make getting through the day much more comfortable.

Pucci-Marmo-Print-fan

Pucci Marmo Print fan

A little spritz goes a long way

There’s something especially satisfying about pulling a facial mist out of your bag when you’ve been out in the heat. It won’t bring the temperature down, but a few spritzes can feel like a welcome little break from the humidity.

Summer Fridays’ Jet Lag Skin Soothing Hydration Mist is a lovely one to keep in your purse. Its ultra-fine spray feels refreshing, while ingredients like glycerin, cucumber extract, and ceramides help hydrate and soothe the skin. It leaves a dewy finish without feeling heavy and can be used over makeup for a quick midday refresh.

It may not be air-conditioning, but when you’ve barely stepped outside and already wish you were back indoors, you’ll appreciate having it within reach.

Rein Entertainment has unveiled the official trailer for psychological thriller ‘Laya,’ featuring Andrea Brillantes and JC Santos navigating a complicated friendship marked by secrets and unexpected turns.

Released on Thursday, Nov. 5, the nearly two-minute clip begins with Brillantes’ character, Sab, seemingly plotting her revenge against Santos’ Tuki, an ex-convict who was imprisoned for murder. She later introduces herself to Tuki, and the two eventually grow closer as their story unfolds.

”Yung tingin mo sa akin, tao ako, hindi aswang,’ Tuki tells Sab while in tears.

However, their closeness takes a violent turn as Sab appears determined to carry out her revenge.

‘Ikulong mo na lang ako ulit. Mas bagay ako do’n,’ Tuki can be heard saying in the background as Sab points a gun at him.

The trailer also features Anthony Jennings, who portrays the role of Benjo, Sab’s friend.

‘Laya’ is written and directed by Sigrid Andrea Bernardo. The film is set to premiere in local cinemas on Nov. 25.

The Medical City (TMC) celebrates its 59th anniversary with three distinctions from Newsweek and Statista: No. 1 among Philippine hospitals in Cardiology in the Best Specialized Hospitals Asia Pacific 2026, No. 1 among Philippine hospitals in Oncology in the World’s Best Specialized Hospitals 2027, and recognition as the only Philippine hospital included in the World’s Best Smart Hospitals 2027 ranking.

Three distinctions from Newsweek and Statista mark a new milestone as TMC begins its Road to 60.

For patients and families, the distinctions highlight the availability of internationally recognized expertise close to home. For TMC, they reinforce a continuing responsibility to strengthen clinical care, advance the thoughtful use of technology, and support patients through every stage of their health journey.

‘These recognitions are meaningful because of the people behind them, our patients who place their trust in us, and our teams who work every day to earn that trust,’ said Dr. Ruben G. Kasala, EVP and CEO of The Medical City Ortigas.

‘As we take the road to 60, we remain focused on what these achievements should mean for our patients: access to specialized expertise, care that responds to their needs, and a partner they can count on,’ Dr. Kasala shared.

The Cardiology and Oncology distinctions recognize TMC Ortigas’ standing in two major fields of specialized medicine. Its inclusion in the World’s Best Smart Hospitals ranking adds recognition for healthcare technology, underscoring the importance of combining clinical expertise with innovation.

These achievements form part of a journey that began in 1967 with ABM Sison Hospital. Over nearly six decades, TMC has grown into a healthcare enterprise serving communities through its hospitals and outpatient clinics, guided by the philosophy, ‘Where Patients Are Partners.’

As The Medical City approaches its 60th anniversary, Dr. Stuart Bennett, its President and Group CEO, emphasized that the milestone is not a time to slow down, but an opportunity to build on six decades of providing high-quality healthcare and accelerate the institution’s growth.

‘Turning 60 may signal retirement for some, but certainly not for The Medical City. For us, it represents six decades of providing high-quality care to our patients. We are not retiring, nor are we slowing down. If anything, we are accelerating toward an even greater future, and every TMCitizen has an important role to play in that journey,’ said Dr. Bennett.

Dr. Stuart Bennett, President and Group CEO of The Medical City looks ahead on the Enterprise’ goal of an established network integration and continued commitment to #OneTMC.

‘By connecting our hospitals and clinics under one integrated network, we aim to bring specialized expertise and quality care closer to more communities,’ Dr. Bennett added.

Mr. Jose Xavier B. Gonzales, TMC’s Chairman of the Board, reflects on the institution’s history and its commitment to the community: ‘[From being] a general hospital, it stayed true to its word of trying to deliver the best to the local community around Ortigas, which was developing at that time.’

Mr. Jose Xavier B. Gonzales, Chairman of the Board reminisce on the enduring history of The Medical City and its resounding success to reach more communities.

Now on its Road to 60, Mr. Gonzales shared that the journey toward the institution’s 60th anniversary calls for greater unity across the enterprise and a shared commitment to patient-centered care.

‘To achieve this, we must come together as OneTMC, united by the same culture and commitment to patient affinity, empathy, compassion, and care. As we approach another milestone year, I hope every TMCitizen will embrace this mindset and carry it forward in everything we do,’ said Mr. Gonzales.

Bringing Healthcare Closer to Communities

As part of its 59th anniversary celebration, TMC organized free health screenings and community outreach activities for its patients and partner communities.

On October 23, TMC held its Health360 Free Health Screening at The Medical City Ortigas, offering patients a range of preventive health services, including blood sugar testing, heart and breast screenings, eye and ENT assessments, nutrition and weight management consultations, and other health assessments. The activity aimed to encourage early detection and help individuals take a more proactive role in managing their health.

The Medical City healthcare professionals perform free health screenings and services for the public.

The following day, October 24, TMC brought its anniversary celebration to the community through a medical mission for senior citizens at the Doña Juana Covered Court in Brgy. Rosario, Pasig City, in partnership with the City Government of Pasig and the Sinag ng Rosario.

The initiative provided free health screenings and educational sessions focused on diabetes awareness and prevention, fall risk awareness, and healthy aging.

Together, the two activities reflect TMC’s belief that quality healthcare extends beyond hospital walls. By bringing preventive services and health education closer to the community, TMC continues to promote early intervention, informed health decisions, and healthier lives at every stage.

Celebrating 59 Years and Looking Ahead

As part of its anniversary celebration, TMC will present a five-chapter exhibit tracing the enterprise’s beginnings, expanding reach, advances in treatment, commitment to quality, and aspirations for the future. The exhibit connects institutional milestones with their meaning for patients and communities: care closer to home, new treatment options, and support through changing health needs.

The celebration also invites patients, families, healthcare professionals, and employees to share their own TMC stories. Their experiences bring the institution’s history to life and give its next chapter meaning.

Nearly a decade after the last mainline installment, Professor Layton and the New World of Steam is bringing the gentleman detective back for a new adventure.

Launching on December 10, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam, the game reunites Professor Layton and Luke in a fresh mystery while introducing new puzzle mechanics that take advantage of a fully three-dimensional world.

A new case across the ocean

The story takes place one year after Luke’s move to America. A letter from Layton’s former apprentice prompts the professor to cross the ocean and investigate a new mystery, setting the stage for another globe-spanning adventure.

While details about the broader narrative remain under wraps, hands-on previews have highlighted the pair’s search for the inventor Professor Eggmuffin as part of the game’s opening chapters. The setup retains the series’ familiar blend of mystery, eccentric characters, and puzzle-solving, giving longtime fans a recognizable entry point into the new story.

Puzzles remain at the heart of the experience

The Professor Layton series has long been known for weaving riddles and brain teasers into nearly every aspect of progression, and New World of Steam continues that tradition.

Rather than reinventing the formula, the new game appears focused on building upon the elements that defined previous titles in the series, with puzzles once again serving as the backbone of both exploration and storytelling.

Preview demos showcased a variety of challenges that blend logical reasoning, observation, and creative problem-solving. Familiar puzzle concepts return alongside new variations designed specifically for the game’s modern presentation.

Players can expect the same steady rhythm of uncovering clues, solving puzzles, and advancing the narrative that helped establish the franchise’s identity on Nintendo DS and 3DS.

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Adding a new dimension to puzzle-solving

One of the most noticeable changes in New World of Steam is how its fully realized 3D environments are incorporated into puzzle design.

Several previewed challenges required players to examine scenes from different angles, revealing information that was not immediately visible from the default perspective. Rather than serving purely as a visual upgrade, the three-dimensional presentation becomes part of the puzzle-solving process itself.

The approach creates opportunities for challenges built around spatial awareness and observation, introducing a new layer of interaction while remaining consistent with the series’ emphasis on careful thinking and attention to detail.

A familiar formula for a new generation

Based on multiple public demonstrations, Professor Layton and the New World of Steam looks less concerned with dramatically altering the franchise and more focused on delivering a modernized continuation of what made the series popular in the first place.

The combination of a new mystery, the return of Layton and Luke, and puzzle mechanics built around three-dimensional environments gives the game a fresh foundation while preserving the core identity fans have come to expect.

With its release date now confirmed, players will soon be able to step back into the world of riddles and deductions when Professor Layton and the New World of Steam launches on December 10, 2026.

Rep. Gerville Luistro praised former law dean Ralph Sarmiento on Thursday for his reason for declining to be a defense witness in Vice President Sara Z. Duterte’s impeachment trial.

In an interview on ANC’s ‘Headstart’ with Karen Davila, Luistro, the lead House prosecutor, said she appreciated Sarmiento’s explanation that he would like to keep his constitutional law views independent.

Sarmiento, a former University of St. La Salle College of Law dean, had been expected to open the defense presentation when the trial resumes Nov. 9.

The defense wanted him to discuss constitutional and legal questions tied to Article II, the remaining wealth-related charge.

‘I’m quite surprised that it seems that the defense did not reach out to him prior to filing the motion for issuance of subpoena to this witness,’ Luistro said.

She pointed out that finding out the position and willingness to testify of a prospective witness was part of preparing a presentation.

In his recorded statement played during the interview, Sarmiento said he would not testify for either side because he wanted to preserve his independence as a constitutional law professor and legal analyst.

He asked the defense to withdraw its subpoena request or seek its recall if one had already been issued.

‘He wants to maintain his independence and impartiality in sharing his opinions,’ Luistro said.

The ‘Headstart’ discussion also turned to the possibility of Duterte taking the witness stand.

Luistro said such an appearance would benefit the prosecution, citing both her assessment of Duterte’s manner of speaking and the financial records already presented.

‘To be very honest, if the respondent vice president will appear, it will be to the advantage of the prosecution,’ she said.

Luistro criticized Duterte’s speaking style: ‘Sometimes she loses control of what she says.’

She also pointed to the records supporting the second impeachment article’s allegations of unexplained wealth, inaccurate asset declaration, and prohibited business interests.

‘The evidence on unexplained wealth is document-based,’ Luistro said.

She cited forensic accounting expert Alexander Cabrera’s explanation of the financial records and the connections the prosecution sought to establish through them.

‘We have a forensic analyst who was able to explain clearly and strongly the connection of the pieces of evidence,’ she said.

Cabrera’s report, covering the years 2022 to 2025, estimated P817.87 million in allegedly undeclared assets and unexplained wealth involving Duterte and her husband, lawyer Manases Carpio.

Luistro said the defense would have to address records filed by the couple and their associated companies, including audited financial statements and Income Tax Returns (ITRs).

She questioned how witnesses would rebut those documents and the prosecution’s analysis.

In-person classes were cancelled in Albay on Friday (Nov. 6) due to the expected extreme heat and scheduled power interruption.

Bicol Region

Guinobatan, Albay – suspension of in-person classes, all levels, public and private; shift to online alternative modes of learning

Jovellar, Albay – suspension of in-person classes (except schools in San Isidro, Del Rosario, San Roque, Salvacion, Mamlad, and Estrella)

Tabaco City – suspension of in-person classes (all levels, public and private)

Bacacay, Albay – suspension of in-person classes (all levels, public and private)

Tiwi, Albay – suspension of in-person classes (all levels, public and private)

Roxas City, Capiz

Milibili National High School – suspension of in-person classes; shift to online learning

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration earlier reported that the heat index in Coron, Palawan, Dumangas, Iloilo, and Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte may reach up to 43 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile, areas in Iloilo City, IloIlo and Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur may experience high temperatures of up to 42 degrees Celsius.

Under the Department of Education’s Memorandum No. 64, Series of 2026, schools may either suspend or shift to alternative modes of learning due to high heat index in their areas.