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Former Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin ‘Boying’ Remulla has officially been named the new Ombudsman, assuming one of the country’s most powerful anti-corruption posts amid a packed investigative docket.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Remulla on Tuesday, October 7, succeeding former Ombudsman Samuel Martires, whose term expired in July. Remulla took his oath of office on Thursday, October 9.

Justice Undersecretary Fredderick Vida will serve as acting Justice Secretary in the meantime.

As Ombudsman, Remulla is expected to face and handle several high-profile cases:

1. Complaints filed against him

Even before assuming office, Remulla faces multiple complaints filed during his tenure as Justice secretary.

Acting Davao City Mayor Paolo Duterte lodged criminal and administrative complaints against Remulla and several officials over the handover of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court on March 11, 2025.

Separately, lawyer Ferdinand Topacio filed arbitrary detention charges against Remulla and National Bureau of Investigation Director Jaime Santiago for the arrest and detention of Cassandra Ong and Shiela Leal Guo, who were accused of involvement in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators’ illicit activities.

Under standard procedure, officials who are subjects of complaints are expected to inhibit themselves from proceedings related to their own cases.

2. Flood control fund scandal

Remulla will also inherit a major corruption probe into anomalous flood control projects.

On September 1, the Ombudsman created a special panel of prosecutors to investigate alleged irregularities in government infrastructure projects, in coordination with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, the Department of Justice and both chambers of Congress.

By late September, the ICI had recommended filing graft, malversation and falsification charges against former Rep. Zaldy Co and several Department of Public Works and Highways officials.

3. Confidential funds investigation

The Ombudsman is also handling a contentious case involving Vice President Sara Duterte over the alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds – P500 million from the Office of the Vice President and P112.5 million from the Department of Education between 2022 and 2024.

The probe stems from a recommendation by the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability. In June, the Ombudsman directed Duterte and nine other officials to respond to the allegations.

4. Pandemic-time Pharmally scandal

Remulla also vowed to revisit the Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. controversy, one of the most prominent corruption cases to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said his office would reexamine findings and testimonies related to the alleged overpricing of medical supplies procured during the Duterte administration, as well as the accountability of officials linked to the transactions.

The case, which previously led to Senate hearings and criminal complaints, has remained largely unresolved since being referred to the Ombudsman in 2022.

Ombudsman’s scope

Under the Constitution and the Ombudsman Act of 1989, the Ombudsman serves as the government’s independent watchdog against corruption and abuse in public service.

The office has broad authority to investigate, prosecute, and discipline public officials – from rank-and-file employees to Cabinet members – when misconduct, negligence, or misuse of public funds is suspected.

The Ombudsman can:

Initiate investigations on its own or upon complaint;

Direct public officials to act on or cease improper conduct;

Recommend suspension, removal, or criminal prosecution of erring officials;

Access government documents and financial records;

Administer oaths, issue subpoenas, and hold individuals in contempt; and

Publicize findings when warranted, ensuring reports are balanced and factual.

The office also has authority to recover ill-gotten wealth acquired after Feb. 25, 1986-when the current president’s father was deposed as dictator through People Power Revolution.

The Ombudsman, notably, is also expected to push for reforms that eliminate inefficiency, red tape, and corruption across government agencies.

Remulla steps into an institution under intense public scrutiny and charged with investigating some of the most politically sensitive cases in government.

The office he now leads holds sweeping powers to seek accountability, but its credibility depends on whether he can wield those powers with impartiality.

TNT feels the itch as it launches a renewed bid for the PBA Philippine Cup title that eluded them in their near-grand slam run the previous season.

‘If you look back at last season, I thought we performed pretty well. So, it’s a matter of continuing that,’ said coach Chot Reyes, whose Tropang 5G won the Season 49 Governors’ Cup and Commissioner’s Cup then valiantly fought San Miguel Beer with a hobbling crew before settling for runner-up honors in the All-Filipino.

‘We are by no means satisfied with how we finished the season and we hope to be able to improve on our last all Filipino placing,’ he added.

Rey Nambatac returns to action after missing the Philippine Cup playoffs due to injury while Calvin Oftana, RR Pogoy and Jordan Heading are back in full strength after playing hurt in the finale.

TNT also loaded up with veteran Kevin Ferrer, athletic wing Tyrus Hill and defense-oriented guard Jio Jalalon ahead of its Season 50 Philippine Cup debut tonight against Phoenix at the Ynares Center-Montalban.

‘Our goal really for this season is to be the best at the things that take no talent. And that’s what for us TNT stands for. We might not be the biggest, most talented team in the league, but we strive to be the best in the things that take no talent – hard work, effort, team-manship, doing the extra mile, caring for each other,’ said Reyes.

The TNT Tropang 5G and the PLDT High Speed Hitters celebrated their successful runs on the hardcourt and the taraflex with thousands of supporters in the recent ‘Champions Together’ event at One Ayala.

The joint grand fans day gig gave PBA Governors’ Cup and Commissioner’s Cup kingpin TNT and PVL On Tour and Invitational Conference queen PLDT a special venue to give back to their fans in a special celebration of loyalty, resilience and shared victories.

‘Para sa TNT, pumunta talaga ako dito. Kahit umuulan, kahit malayo. Yung puso, nandito,’ said Hendrix Manaoat from Valenzuela, one of the Tropang 5G diehards from across Metro Manila and nearby provinces who trooped to the venue to meet their idols.

‘Dream ko talaga makita sila,’ shared Robin Delgaco from Caloocan, a ka-Tropa since 2011. ‘Kahit SIM card ko, TNT pa rin.’

The champions enjoyed the interactions in the event, which featured interactive booths, games, and exclusive merchandise, as much as the fans did.

‘Sobrang excited kami makita ‘yung fans kasi sila talaga ang nagbibigay buhay sa amin bilang players,’ said TNT’s Kim Aurin, considering the event as a ‘reminder of the team’s purpose.’ ‘Maraming salamat sa malupitang suporta ninyo. Gagawin namin ang best namin sa 50th season ng PBA.’

PLDT’s Kim Kianna Dy was thankful to the fans for inspiring her comeback from injury.

‘It was a long wait, and I’m super grateful the fans kept cheering even when I wasn’t playing. They’re one of the reasons I kept going,’ said Dy.

It works both ways, said Yul Solajes, a fan and volleyball player from Taguig.

‘She’s a natural. As a player myself, I relate to her journey. She’s an inspiration inside and outside the court.’

Dy and the High Speed Hitters scored their breakthrough in the PVL recently and won not one but two titles.

‘Hard work always works. It wasn’t easy to get a back-to-back championship. We just worked hard, stayed together, and trusted the process,’ said ‘KKD.’

Jude Turcuato, FVP and Head of Sports at PLDT and Smart, said ‘Champions Together’ was held to further strengthen the connection between athletes and fans.

‘We don’t just build teams – we build communities. Today showed us that the heart of sports isn’t just in the game, but in the people who believe in it,’ he said.

With ‘Champions Together,’ the company reiterated its commitment to the fans who continue to support, celebrate, and stand by their teams through every season.

At the same time, PLDT and Smart remain committed to supporting Filipino athletes by creating platforms that connect teams with their communities.

Christy Ng, the beloved Southeast Asian fashion brand known for its stylish and customizable pieces, is now officially in the Philippines-marking its arrival with an intimate pre-launch movie screening party that perfectly captured the essence of its versatile designs.

Held last October 2 at SM Megamall Director’s Club, Fashion Hall, the exclusive event brought together media, personalities and fashion lovers for a chic yet relaxed afternoon that showcased what Christy Ng is all about: empowering women with fashion that moves with them, from power meetings to personal moments.

Guests enjoyed a private viewing of A Big Bold Beautiful Journey, starring Margot Robbie and Colin Farrel. The film is about reliving important moments throughout the past of both characters, and how it leads them to each other. Much like the film’s journey, Christy Ng’s decision to start a fashion brand in her very own living room has transformed into a thriving regional label, with designs loved by women all over.

The highlight of the afternoon was a special meet-and-greet with Christy Ng herself, giving attendees the rare opportunity to connect with the visionary behind the brand and hear firsthand about her inspiring journey, from starting small in Malaysia to expanding across the region.

‘The Philippines has always been close to my heart, and I’m thrilled to finally bring Christy Ng here. Our pieces are designed for women who lead dynamic lives-where a single pair of shoes or a bag can take you from a busy workday to an evening of relaxation. This launch marks an exciting new chapter in our journey, and I’m so grateful to share it with Filipinas,’ said Christy Ng.

Just like how her pieces transition seamlessly from the workday to a well-deserved evening escape, the screening underscored the brand’s philosophy of affordable elegance, customization and Southeast Asian craftsmanship.

This private screening also marked the announcement of Christy Ng’s pop-up store in the Philippines, located at SM Megamall. With its arrival, the brand is bringing stylish, personal and empowering fashion to Filipinas who seek both function and flair in their everyday lives.

Tropical Storm Quedan (international name Nakri) entered the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) yesterday afternoon, but is not expected to directly affect the country’s weather conditions, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

PAGASA said the center of Quedan was last located 1,370 kilometers east-northeast of extreme Northern Luzon, with maximum sustained winds of 75 kilometers per hour near the center and gusts of up to 90 kph.

It is moving north-northwest at 30 kph.

The weather bureau said that Quedan’s strong to gale-force winds extend outward up to 360 kilometers from the center.

No tropical cyclone wind signal has been raised over any part of the country as of yesterday afternoon.

Despite Quedan’s presence within PAR, PAGASA said it is ‘less likely to directly affect the weather conditions in the country.’

The agency warned, however, that other weather systems – including the southwesterlies, a low-pressure area and the northeasterly wind flow – may bring strong to gale-force gusts, particularly over coastal and upland areas in several parts of the country.

Gusty conditions are expected today over Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Ilocos Norte, Palawan, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Eastern Samar, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Northern Mindanao, Zamboanga del Norte and Davao provinces.

Tomorrow, gusts may persist over Ilocos Norte, Palawan, Romblon, Masbate, Western Visayas, Negros Island Region, Central Visayas, Zamboanga del Norte and Misamis Occidental.

PAGASA said Quedan is expected to continue moving northwestward and may exit the PAR by late Thursday night or early Friday morning as it heads toward Ryukyu Islands, where it is forecast to further intensify.

As one of the spearheads of San Miguel’s bench mob, Don Trollano’s effort has paid off, with the 33-year-old forward to be recognized as Mr. Quality Minutes in the PBA Press Corps 31st Annual Awards Night on Oct. 13 at the Novotel Manila.

Sharing the spotlight with Trollano during the gala night are members of the All-Rookie Team in Rookie of the Year winner RJ Abarrientos of Barangay Ginebra, Sedrick Barefield (Blackwater), Caelan Tiongson (Rain or Shine), Kai Ballungay (Phoenix), and the duo of Jordan Heading (TNT/Converge) and Justine Baltazar (Converge).

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said that the national government’s revenue collection is expected to decrease significantly should the proposed measure, which removes the 12 percent value-added tax (VAT), be approved and enacted into law.

Noting that a striking portion of the agency’s collection is derived from the tax intake, BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said the decision ultimately rests with the government’s economic managers.

‘Of course, collections will decrease since a significant portion of the government’s revenue currently comes from the VAT,’ he told The STAR. ‘It is substantial because a large percentage of the BIR’s total collections comes from the said tax program.’

Cavite Rep. Francisco Barzaga filed House Bill 5119, on Monday, proposing the removal of the 12 percent VAT on all goods and services, aiming to ease the tax burden on consumers nationwide.

In his explanatory note, the politician stated that the tax places a burden on consumers, particularly low- and middle-income families, as it is imposed on goods and services regardless of their ability to pay.

Pressed on whether Lumagui is in favor of removing the tax, the BIR chief said it would be difficult to comment since the agency only serves as the implementing body tasked with carrying out government policies.

‘It is difficult to comment on the matter since we are only the implementing agency,’ he said.

‘Also, it is really up to the economic managers at the Department of Finance to make the estimates on the potential impact of the removal of the VAT and their plans for the economy of our country,’ Lumagui added.

Based on the latest Bureau of the Treasury data, the BIR has collected P2.14 trillion from January to August this year. The revenue pile is 11.4 percent higher than what the agency collected in the same period last year at P1.92 trillion.

The VAT on goods, introduced in the Philippines in 1988, increased to 12 percent in 2005.

Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste also recently proposed reducing the VAT by two percentage points to 10 percent.

Alex Eala arrived in Osaka Friday to plot her mission of entering the Top 50 world rankings for the first time ever in the WTA250 Japan Open next week.

Eala this week climbed to No. 54 in the Women’s Tennis Association despite an early exit in Wuhan, China – making Japan a perfect place to etch more history for Philippine tennis.

No Filipina has ever stepped foot in the elite Top 50 rankings and Eala sports a pretty chance if she goes deep in the $250,000 tourney against a stacked field led by home bet Naomi Osaka, World No. 16.

WTA No. 17 Linda Noskova of the Czech Republic, Filipina-Canadian Leylah Fernandez, WTA No. 27, and No. 70 Cristina Bucsa of Spain, Eala’s tormentor in the US Open second round, are also in the fray.

The official draw is yet to be released by the WTA Tour pending the completion of the WTA1000 Wuhan Open, where Eala absorbed a 4-6, 6-3, 2-6 defeat against Japanese Moyuka of Japan in Round 1 of the qualifiers.

Eala spent a little break in China after that defeat to recharge for an expected tougher tourney in Japan that will serve her sixth straight tournament in a month on top of the US Open feat, where she became the first Filipina winner in any Grand Slam main draw.

She started the stretch of the loaded WTA Tour by netting her maiden WTA title in the WTA125 Guadalajara Open in Mexico then reached the quarterfinals of the WTA250 Sao Paulo Open in Brazil.

After Japan, Eala will have more chances to crack the Top 50 with stints in the Guangzhou Open from October 20-26 and the Hong Kong Open from October 27 to November 2.

A homecoming is slated after that with her expected national team return for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December and the planned WTA Tour hosting to be branded as Manila or Philippine Open early next year.

The Ilagan Isabela Cowboys held the fort under pressure and thwarted the Bataan Risers, 74-71, on Wednesday to clinch the eighth and last playoff slot in the North Division of the Manny Pacquiao Presents MPBL 2025 Season at The Capital Arena in Ilagan City, Isabela.

With top gun Arth dela Cruz out after a right ankle injury in the third quarter, the Cowboys called on homegrown Donald Gumaru, Agem Miranda and Jerie Pingoy to fend off the Risers and forge a best-of-three showdown with North’s top qualifier Abra Solid North Weavers in the playoff round starting today.

Miranda canned two free throws while Pingoy went three of four in the dying seconds to frustrate the Risers.

The Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) proudly announces the highly anticipated return of the Student PR Congress and Grand Prix, setting the stage for the next generation of communicators to create purpose-driven change. This year’s event calls on students to break through boundaries with the theme, “Unmuted: Live, Loud and Limitless PR.”

The Congress is the PRSP’s commitment to fulfilling its mission: to nurture and develop a new generation of PR practitioners equipped to navigate a rapidly changing world. By focusing on shifting and emerging technologies and trends the PRSP aims to cultivate professionals who can wield public relations as a tool for creating meaningful, positive impact in society. The “Unmuted” theme embodies this goal, encouraging students to utilize every available platform-live interactions, digital channels and innovative storytelling-to make their voices and campaigns impactful and boundless.

“It is truly inspiring to witness the growing interest in public relations among schools, particularly through initiatives like our PR caravans. These programs are vital in fulfilling our mission to nurture the next generation of PR professionals, providing them with invaluable insights into a dynamic and impactful career, said Steve Michael Moore, Student PR Congress chairman and PRSP officer.

The centerpiece of the event, the Student PR Grand Prix, is a high-stakes, real-world competition. Student teams from across the nation will receive an actual campaign brief from a leading organization and must develop and present a comprehensive PR strategy to a panel of award-winning industry leaders.

The competition mechanics challenge students’ strategic thinking, creativity, and execution skills under a tight deadline. Judging criteria will focus on quality of research, creativity of the big idea, feasibility of proposed executions, clarity of metrics and the actual pitch presentation. Top teams will vie for the coveted Grand Prix title, recognition from the country’s most respected PR professionals, and exciting cash prizes and professional opportunities.

The Student PR Congress and Grand Prix will take place on November 6-7, 2025 at De la Salle College of St. Benilde in Manila This event is a critical networking opportunity, bringing together students, academics, and industry veterans for a day of learning, inspiration, and competition.

Student teams are invited to review the Grand Prix full campaign mechanics here and then your attendance to the Student PR Congress register here,