Category: Philippines Daily Inquirer

Former Speaker Martin Romualdez and resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co will be invited to the next hearing of the Senate blue ribbon committee’s investigation into the corruption behind anomalous flood control projects.

According to Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson, the blue ribbon committee, which he chairs, will send invitations to Romualdez and Co while awaiting developments in the case and before scheduling the next hearing.

He stressed that this should debunk the perception of some groups that the committee was targeting, favoring or even ‘protecting’ some personalities. ‘We are not covering up for anyone here,’ the senator said.

In the case of Romualdez, the invitation will be coursed through Speaker Faustino Dy III, ‘in observation of the time-honored interparliamentary courtesy between the two houses of Congress.’

In Co’s case, Lacson said the letter would be sent to his residential address.

‘Now we know he is abroad and will not show up. If that is the case, we will issue a subpoena, and then a show-cause order,’ Lacson said in an interview on NET25. ‘If the show-cause order is not satisfactory, we will cite him in contempt of the committee and issue a warrant for his arrest.’

In his fourth State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. condemned government officials and contractors who allegedly earned kickbacks from infrastructure projects at the expense of people suffering from heavy flooding. This led to congressional investigations and the creation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to probe alleged corruption in flood control projects.

Co, who resigned as representative of Ako Bicol party list on Monday, is abroad supposedly for a medical leave. The former lawmaker, who chaired the powerful House appropriations committee in the 19th Congress, has been accused of getting billions of pesos in kickbacks by contractors and public works officials testifying in congressional inquiries into these projects.

Co, in previous statements, had denied the allegations and lamented ‘the evident denial of my right to due process.’

Romualdez has not been linked to any of the top companies that cornered big-ticket projects of the government. He denied allegations made in congressional inquiries that he received kickbacks, calling them ‘false’ and ‘pure fiction.’

Evidence

Lacson made it clear that the blue ribbon committee will continue its hearings for as long as there are major developments that it needs to look into. He reiterated that he would maintain a ‘blindfold mentality,’ stressing he would be impartial and go where the evidence would lead him.

‘If we stop the probe now, we may reinforce the perception rightly or wrongly that we are covering up for someone. No. I said it clearly, we will go where the evidence leads us,’ he said.

Meanwhile, Malacañang said Co should return to the country to face the possible charges against him.

‘Nothing can stop him from making his decisions, but if ever a case is filed against him, he will not be able to avoid it, he cannot run away from it,’ Palace press officer Claire Castro said in a briefing on Tuesday.

‘So it would be better that if he becomes an accused, he should simply fight for his rights and defend his innocence based on the evidence he holds,’ she said. The ICI on Monday asked the Office of the Ombudsman to recommend filing of graft complaints against Co and 17 others, including officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways and his construction firm, Sunwest Inc., over a substandard flood control project in Oriental Mindoro worth P289.5 million.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for flights near Taal Volcano after it erupted early Wednesday. In its advisory, Caap said the NOTAM will cover flights near Taal with vertical limits from the surface up to 11,000 feet.

The notice will be in effect from 9:12 a.m. this Wednesday until 9 a.m. on Thursday, October 2.

‘Flight operators are advised to avoid flying close to the volcano,’ Caap said.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, a minor phreatomagmatic eruption from the main crater of Taal occurred on Wednesday at 2:02 a.m. to 2:15 a.m.

The national government will be extending more than P100 million in additional assistance to Masbate to help in the rehabilitation of the province worst hit by Typhoon Opong (international name: Bualoi) last week.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos on Wednesday ordered the Department of Budget and Management to release P100 million in Local Government Support Fund to the local government, upon the request of Masbate Governor Richard Kho.

During the distribution of assistance to the affected families in Masbate City on Wednesday, Marcos said the government would provide continued support to them including food, medicine, and cash assistance, until necessary.

‘Do not worry, the government’s support will continue for as long as you need it. Even if it takes some time because your homes are not yet repaired, we are already here extending our support,’ the President said in his remarks at Nursery Elementary School in Masbate City.

‘No one will be left behind. Even after the typhoon has passed, your government will still be here. We will not leave until all evacuees and everyone affected by the typhoon are back on their feet and have recovered,’ he added.

The President told Masbate residents not to hesitate in asking for help from the government-either from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), or their city and provincial government. During his visit, the President led distribution of family food packs, hygiene kits, 10-meter laminated sacks, water filtration kits and the P10,000 cash assistance each to 600 families through the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), amounting to P264.96 million. Marcos also announced the P28 million worth of aid released by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to the provincial government of Masbate intended for livelihood assistance and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa ating Disadvantaged Workers (Tupad) beneficiaries.

Marcos also ordered the Department of Education (DepEd) to rehabilitate the 806 damaged classrooms in the province within a month.

Aside from the distribution of aid, he also visited Masbate Provincial Hospital to personally inspect its damaged facilities.

Marcos turned over a facsimile check worth P3 million from the Department of Health (DOH) to the provincial government for repair works.

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has secured its third and broadest freeze order yet under the ongoing flood control corruption probe, widening a crackdown that has now immobilized 1,813 assets worth nearly P3 billion.

In a statement, the AMLC said the Court of Appeals (CA) issued the Sept. 30 directive covering 836 bank accounts, 12 e-wallets, 24 insurance policies, 81 vehicles and 12 properties.

The order built on two earlier directives and marks the most extensive asset freeze since the inquiry began.

‘Disrupting financial channels’

In all, the appeals court has frozen 1,563 bank accounts, 54 insurance policies, 154 vehicles, 30 properties and 12 e-wallets-assets with an estimated value of P2.9 billion.

The AMLC said the figure is expected to increase as the probe deepens.

‘By freezing a wide range of assets-such as bank accounts, e-wallets, vehicles, and properties-the AMLC is disrupting the financial channels used in corrupt activities,’ said Matthew David, the council’s executive director.

‘Our goal is straightforward: prevent stolen public funds from being dissipated and misused, recover them for the National Government, and ensure that those involved in money laundering are held accountable,’ he added.

Lawmakers’ assets

Last week, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the AMLC was also preparing to block the assets of six individuals-including some lawmakers-being sued by the National Bureau of Investigation.

When a bank account is frozen, all activity-transfers, deposits, withdrawals and even account closures-comes to a halt. Banks are then required to comb through the accounts and review past transactions to determine whether they were used for illicit activity. Their findings are sent to the AMLC.

The freeze orders also covered insurance policies because they can serve as vehicles for concealing or moving illegal funds. For now, the AMLC is prioritizing such assets because they are easier to identify, locate and freeze.

Banks, personal properties

The directives may soon extend far beyond financial accounts, cars and real estate. David earlier said the council might also ask the CA to freeze personal properties-such as investments, jewelry and even virtual assets-if they are linked to the misuse of public funds.

He said the watchdog might also scrutinize banks after a congressional inquiry flagged large cash transactions linked to the flood control scandal, though he declined to confirm whether such a probe was already underway.

Anytime Fitness Asia has achieved a historic milestone, celebrating the network’s growth to 500 clubs across the region. To mark the occasion, eight clubs across eight markets hosted synchronized grand openings on the same day, highlighting the scale and unity of the brand’s fast-growing network.

With Anytime Fitness Asia recently recognized as the Overall Winner – International Franchisor of the Year at the 2025 Franchising and Licensing Association (FLA) Singapore Awards, the 500th club milestone further underscores the brand’s leadership and credibility in the region. ‘This milestone is a powerful symbol of our growth and unity,’ said Luke Guanlao, Group CEO of Inspire Brands Asia (IBA). ‘With more than 5,600 clubs across 42 countries, Anytime Fitness is the world’s largest 24-hour fitness franchise – and our purpose, Train For Your Life, drives us to be more than a gym. Reaching 500 clubs in Asia is just the beginning, and we’re committed to expanding further into new markets while continuing to be a lifetime partner in health and wellness.’ Johannes Raadsma, President and Co-Founder of Inspire Brands Asia (IBA), added: ‘Every one of our 500 clubs tells a story of resilience, entrepreneurship, and community. This milestone highlights not only our growth, but also the trust of our members and the dedication of our staff, franchisees, and partners who make our network thrive and united across Asia.’

On 19 September, synchronized events took place at AF McKinley West in the Philippines, AF Tampines in Singapore, AF Austin Green in Malaysia, AF Hang Hau in Hong Kong, AF Citimall Cimanggis in Indonesia, AF Oasis Ratchapruek in Thailand, AF Taoyuan Yiwen in Taiwan, and AF Vincom Grand Park in Vietnam. The milestone celebrations were hosted across a mix of corporate-owned and independent franchisee clubs, reflecting the collective strength, entrepreneurship, and community spirit that drive Anytime Fitness’s growth across Asia.

The milestone was held at Anytime Fitness McKinley West, located in the heart of Taguig’s vibrant community in McKinley West community. Located near residential areas, offices, and commercial hubs, Anytime Fitness McKinley West makes it easy to prioritize your health and wellness without compromising your lifestyle. It offers 24/7 Access to accommodate you based on your schedule, Group Classes for a fun and engaging sessions to keep you energized and consistent. State of the art equipment in Cardio Equipements, free weights, functional training zones, and strength equipment.

Anytime Fitness continues to differentiate itself by combining global reach with local impact. With its 24-hour access model, integrated coaching ecosystem, and strong community ties, the brand has positioned itself as Asia’s most accessible and trusted fitness network.

‘I did not know the Discayas and that was the first and only time outside of the blue ribbon committee hearings that I met them.’

Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson issued the statement Wednesday, addressing the circulating image of him with the controversial contractor couple Cezarah ‘Sarah’ and Pacifico ‘Curlee’ Discaya.

According to Lacson, the photo was taken ‘sometime in the last week of April,’ near the end of the 90-day campaign period for the 2025 midterm elections, when Fred Villaroman, a campaign supporter from Davao City and son of the late Police Brigadier Francisco Villaroman, visited Lacson’s Taguig City office to invite him to a grand rally in Mindanao. Villaroman was accompanied by the Discayas’ son, Pacifico Felizario Discaya II, Lacson said, adding that he declined the invitation.

‘The young Discaya was a nominee of a party-list group-Ako Pinoy or Ako’y Pinoy-vying for a seat in Congress. They were later joined by Mr. and Mrs. Discaya. Anyway, I begged off-first, out of respect for my friend Senate President Tito Sotto whose nephew, Mayor Vico Sotto, was running against Mrs. Discaya for the mayorship of Pasig City,’ said Lacson.

‘And second, there were other party-list groups who were including my name in their sample ballots, and I thought it was not a smart political decision to join a rally of any party-list group,’ he added.

Lacson emphasized that he did not know the Discayas, and that event was the ‘first and only time’ outside the blue ribbon panel’s hearing that he met them.

‘That meeting took around 15-20 minutes, but not before that group photo was taken. I hope this clarifies whatever insinuations are being attached to this said photograph,’ said Lacson.

Lacson’s clarification followed a Facebook repost of the photo by Cavite Rep. Kiko Barzaga, who called for an investigation.

The Discayas were among the key resource persons invited by the blue ribbon to shed light on the alleged collusion among contractors, lawmakers, and officials.

Earlier, Curlee first named House members and government officials he alleged received kickbacks tied to public works projects

The country’s balance of payments (BOP) is seen to swing to a deficit this year and remain in the red next year as global uncertainties and new US tariffs curb trade and investment flows.

According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the current account shortfall is expected to stay at around 3 percent of GDP in 2025 and 2026.

‘These reflect a widening trade-in-goods gap, subdued services receipts and restrained capital inflows amid global uncertainty and shifting trade policies,’ the BSP said in a statement on Wednesday.

The current account, a key component of the BOP, records a nation’s transactions with the rest of the world, particularly its net trade in goods and services.

‘Goods exports and imports are anticipated to remain sluggish, shaped by softening global demand, easing commodity prices, and tempered domestic growth momentum,’ it said.

Tariff stings

In August, the Philippines recorded its narrowest trade deficit in six months in August, but the improvement masked new signs of weakness as higher American tariffs began to weigh on exports to the United States.

Philippine exports grew by 4.6 percent to $7.1 billion, the weakest pace of expansion in eight months. Exports to the US fell by 11.2 percent, although this was offset by higher demand from other trading partners like Hong Kong (+26.4 percent) and Japan (+4.7 percent).

‘Infrastructure investments, potential trade diversion and efforts to diversify export and import partners may help cushion external shocks. However, structural constraints, such as logistical inefficiencies, skills mismatches and elevated input costs, continue to weigh on export competitiveness,’ the BSP added.

In 2024, the BOP position recorded a surplus of $609 million, shrinking from the $3.7-billion surplus in the previous year. /dda

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday assured victims of Typhoon Opong in Masbate province that the government would support them until they can fully recover.

Speaking at Nursery Elementary School in Masbate City, Marcos personally extended his sympathies and led the distribution of relief goods to affected families.

‘The government is here to help. We will provide all your needs, especially those of displaced families. Food packs will be continuously distributed, and hygiene kits will be given to prevent the spread of illness,’ Marcos said in his speech.

The President said the Department of Health (DOH) has been deployed to monitor the health of evacuees, while mobile kitchen trucks have been stationed in the area to provide hot meals.

In addition to food assistance, the government will also provide P10,000 in cash aid to affected families to help them purchase medicine and other needs for infants.

‘Don’t worry, the government will continue to support you even after you leave the evacuation centers,’ Marcos said.

He also announced that First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos had donated water purifying machines to ensure clean drinking water in the community.

To address communication needs in the aftermath of the disaster, Marcos said the government had sent generator sets and Starlink internet terminals to the affected areas.

The Department of Education (DepEd), he added, is already working on the repair and reconstruction of damaged classrooms.

Before ending his visit, Mr. Marcos called on residents not to hesitate in seeking help from local and national agencies.

‘Do not hesitate to speak up if you have any needs. Tell the DSWD, the provincial or municipal government. Whatever you need, we will provide. With a little patience and prayer, we will recover. We are here to support you,’ Marcos stressed./coa

New Phoenix coach Willy Wilson admitted that the role is something that will take time for him to get accustomed to.

‘It’s something that I’m growing into. It’s still something that I’m adjusting to,’ Wilson said during the recent PBA Media Day. ‘As far as how long before I become comfortable, I really don’t know.’

Tapped by Fuel Masters to call the shots for the upcoming PBA 50th season, Wilson has been harping on being ‘collaborative’ and sticking with mostly the things being implemented by his predecessor Jamike Jarin, who is now the team’s consultant.

But he and Phoenix have goals of improving from the past four conferences of missing the playoffs, including all three in Season 49, with a youth-laden lineup and anchored by Jason Perkins, one of the league’s best forwards.

While he tries to do that, the former PBA veteran and La Salle product will take slow steps before getting a sense of getting used to the demanding role of calling the shots and managing a PBA team.

‘I don’t know how long it took for other coaches and other head coaches to be comfortable with the position,’ he said. ‘But I’m not really looking down the road, I’m just looking at the next step right in front of me, and trying to be the best at taking that step.’

Aside from Perkins, the Fuel Masters have sophomore forward Kai Ballungay, third-year mainstays Tyler Tio, Kenneth Tuffin and Ricci Rivero while big man Dave Ando enters his rookie season.

Phoenix still has veterans in RJ Jazul and RR Garcia to provide leadership.

The Fuel Masters posted a victory over NLEX, lost to Magnolia and blew a big lead before settling for a draw with NorthPort during the preseason.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday expressed his sympathy for the families of those who died in the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu.

He also said that government agencies are on the ground giving aid to those in need.

In a statement, Marcos said: ‘I wholeheartedly extend my condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones, and I include in my prayers the safety of the injured and all those affected by the earthquake.’

‘Our cabinet secretaries are already in the affected areas to provide assistance and assess the damage caused by the earthquake and its aftershocks,’ the president also said.

According to Marcos, the Department of Public Works and Highways is making sure that the roads in the province are safe for travel, while the Department of Energy is working to restore power supply in affected communities.

The Department of Health, meanwhile, is deploying additional personnel to provide medical assistance, he said.

Moreover, the Department of Social Welfare and Development is distributing relief goods and other essentials to the victims, he added.

‘The BFP (Bureau of Fire Protection) is assisting in search and rescue operations, while the PNP (Philippine National Police) is focused on maintaining order and supporting rescue efforts,’ Marcos said.

‘The OCD (Office of Civil Defense) and the NDRRMC (National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council) are leading the coordination of all agencies to ensure a swift and orderly response,’ he noted.

‘I urge everyone to remain vigilant and heed the advisories of your local government. Together, we will help our fellow citizens overcome this challenge and rebuild the affected communities,’ he further added.

Still assessing the damage

Meanwhile, in a chance interview in Masbate City, Marcos said the government is still assessing the damage caused by the quake.

‘We’re still assessing the damage there. The earthquake was very strong,’ he said.

‘So we’re assessing the damage, we’re assessing the needs,’ Marcos added.

The entire province of Cebu has been placed under a state of calamity following the earthquake, which caused widespread destruction and left 36 people confirmed dead.

From this, 27 deaths were reported in Bogo City, the epicenter of the 6.9-magnitude temblor that struck at 10 p.m. on Tuesday.