12 days to Midterm election ,campaign period, gun ban in effect
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Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
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congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan
China’s ‘crimes against humanity’ lambasted
By J.Lo
“China must cease its falsehoods and take full responsibility for its crimes against humanity, particularly for destruction of marine ecosystems not only in West Philippine Sea but throughout South China Sea due to its illegal reclamation,island building and destructive fishing operations,” Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commodore Jay Tarriela said following its previous claim that it took control of sand bars located near Pag-asa Island in West Philippine Sea, China should “take full responsibility” for what he called its “crimes against humanity.”
Citing landmark 2016 arbitral ruling favored Philippines’ position and upholding its 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone includes West Philippine Sea, Tarriela said China “‘caused severe harm to coral reef environment,’ specifically due to its extensive land reclamation and artificial island construction.”
Decision also “held Chinese government accountable for poaching and resulting devastation of coral reefs. It ruled that Chinese authorities were aware that Chinese fishermen had harvested endangered sea turtles, coral and giant clams on substantial scale in South China Sea,” he added.
Furthermore, 2016 award “indicated that Chinese fishermen were permitted to harvest clams in areas designated for future construction, as Beijing was aware that these reefs would soon be destroyed. It concluded that China, despite its regulations on protecting giant clams and coral reefs, knowingly tolerated these practices to exploit marine resources before reefs faced permanent destruction from island-building activities.”
Tarriela urged China to “stop deflecting blame onto Philippines for environmental damage.”
“It is illogical to suggest small number of Filipino fishermen pose greater threat than hundreds of Chinese maritime militia vessels that engage in irresponsible poaching and disregard for environmental protection,” he added.
He wrote X post in response to another post by Chinese state publication Global Times that “debunks claims from Philippines regarding China dumping coral debris on Tiexian Jiao, as well as rumors from some nations that reef sandbars are due to ‘land reclamation,’” as well as photos of dumped package allegedly found in the area that came from Philippines. Tiexian Jiao is China’s name for one of the sandy cays located near Pag-asa Island.
Deploying warships and military jets, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Australian Defense Force and United States Indo-Pacific Command again held drills in waters and skies of West Philippine Sea (WPS) on Tuesday in Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA,) seeking to further improve interoperability among allied nations.
Philippine deployment included BRP Antonio Luna, AW159 anti-submarine helicopter, three FA-50 fighter jets and Philippine Air Force search and rescue assets.
Australia participated with its the HMAS Sydney warship, while US deployed F-16 and F-18 fighter jets along with long-range bomber aircraft.
AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said 9th MMCA is separate from six-day Multilateral Maritime Event under this year’s ongoing Balikatan exercises held from April 24 to 29 also in WPS.
“Exercise brought together key maritime and air assets from three partner nations, showcasing strong commitment to regional security, interoperability and cooperation in support of rules-based international order,” he said.
Trinidad said 9th MMCA featured series of integrated operations aimed at improving tactical coordination and combined operational capabilities among three nations. These included Communications Check Exercise, rotary flight operations,vertical replenishment, Division Tactics and Photo Exercise.
Air patrols and anti-submarine warfare exercise were also conducted, demonstrating multi-domain coordination and shared maritime security objectives.
AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. emphasized strategic importance of the activity, stating 9th MMCA “demonstrates growing synergy among like-minded partners in maintaining peace and stability in Indo-Pacific. These exercises are vital in strengthening our collective defense posture and operational readiness.” Military said multilateral engagement reaffirms AFP’s commitment to fostering international cooperation, maintaining maritime security and safeguarding Philippine sovereignty in accordance with international law, particularly United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Reacting to recent statement by People’s Liberation Army’s Southern Theater Command criticizing Philippine military’s activities with its allies and its efforts of strengthening capabilities and partnership for regional stability and security, AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said AFP “stands firm in exercising our sovereign rights within our maritime domain.”
“Conduct of joint exercises and maritime domain awareness operations within our territorial waters and exclusive economic zone is not provocation , it is preparedness… deliberate, lawful actions anchored on international law, particularly UNCLOS, and rooted in responsible, forward-looking defense, our partnerships, especially with long-standing allies like United States, reflect shared values and collective commitment to safeguarding peace, security and rules-based international order… collaborative efforts reinforce not just military capability but mutual trust and strategic interoperability,” she said.
Padilla noted as emphasized by Brwner himself, “we will assess our readiness in all domains , air, land, sea, cyber, information and emerging frontier of space through comprehensive exercises that integrate tactical precision with strategic foresight.”
After generating buzz online, Google appeared to have removed “West Philippine Sea” label on its web mapping platform.
Label is no longer available on Google Maps, although it will appear if “West Philippine Sea” is searched on platform.
Google has yet to issue statement on the matter.
In an earlier statement, Google confirmed “the West Philippine Sea has always been labeled on Google Maps.”
“We recently made this label easier to see at additional zoom levels,” it added.
Update was welcomed by Philippine government, but drew criticism from Beijing.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16, 2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
“This is to avoid being accused of politicizing rice rollout,” Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said after pilot launch of P20 per kilo rice project, poll body has advised government to defer full rollout until after midterm polls.
Garcia explained that Comelec granted exemption for Department of Agriculture (DA) in support of government’s P20-a-kilo rice program.
However, local government units (LGUs) that shall implement rice program are covered by 10-day ban on distribution of all forms of welfare and social assistance, he said.
Only burial and medical assistance programs are exempted from 10-day ban.
According to Garcia, P20 rice project to be implemented by LGUs could be considered form of ayuda and thus covered by ban.
He said Comelec has so far received request for exemption from local government of Cebu.
Poll chief noted that Kadiwa stores nationwide, where public can buy products at lower prices, are not covered by 10-day ban.
Malacañang is open to Comelec’s proposal to implement program after midterm polls to ensure compliance with 10-day spending ban.
“If that is the suggestion and policy of the Comelec chair, we will respond to it,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said.
If Comelec fails to issue exemption to LGUs, DA has no choice but to start implementation of P20 per kilo rice program after May 12 elections, DA spokesman Arnel de Mesa said in interview.
De Mesa added that Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. will proceed with launching of P20 per kilo rice program today in Cebu.
“Exemption issued by Comelec to DA is separate from our partner LGUs and we want to ensure smooth implementation of program, we want clarification that DA and our partners will not be violating any Comelec provision,” De Mesa said.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan
‘Conclave’ shows 2025 papal election activities
By Cynthia Montojo
Many find similarities between upcoming papal election and 2024 Oscar-winning movie “Conclave,” dramatized very event Catholics and cinephiles find themselves converging on single space as.
Pope Francis was laid to rest in Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary Major after his passing last April 21, Easter Monday, at age 88, led to several days of mourning and gathering of College of Cardinals.
Cardinals will come together in the famous Sistine Chapel beginning May 7 to decide who will become next leader of Roman Catholic Church.
Such discussions will take place behind closed doors as it has for centuries, so in the meantime, people can instead look to “Conclave” for glimpse of what could happen since many have pointed out similar things in the film that could occur in real time.
Many people viewed Pope Francis, first Latin-American pope, as most progressive leader of Catholic Church in modern history over predecessor Benedict XVI, while John Paul II had some progressive values but still believed in Church’s conservative teaching.
In the film, initial frontrunner is social conservative Cardinal Joshua Adeyemi from Nigeria played by “Game of Thrones” actor Lucian Msamati.
Adeyemi winning would have made him first pope from Sub-Saharan Africa. Only African popes have all come from modern-day Tunisia , Gelasius I, Miltiades, and Victor I.
There are currently two African cardinals considered “papabile” or contender to be next Supreme Pontiff: Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu from Congo and Cardinal Peter Turkson from Ghana.
Both men are theologically very conservative. Turkson leans left politically while Besungu is known to be against same-sex marriage (a belief shared by the fictional Adeyemi).
Catholicism is growing in Africa, hence why some people believe it is possible the world may see its first African pope in over millenium.
Vatican’s Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, presides over cardinal electors and himself “papabile,” recently presented letters from Pope Francis to convicted Cardinal Angelo Becciu that effectively ban him from t upcoming conclave.
Becciu, former close adviser to Pope Francis, was convicted in December 2023 to five years in jail for embezzlement, aggravated fraud, and abuse of office.
News drew instant comparison to plotline in “Conclave” where late pope stripped John Lithgow’s ambitious Cardinal Joseph Tremblay from Canada, moderate yet mainstream conservative, from his positions.
Move is significant as Tremblay becomes next frontrunner after Adeyemi as liberals want to prevent Italian traditionalist Cardinal Goffredo Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto) from earning votes, however, Tremblay is revealed to have schemes of his own not unlike Becciu.
In the original book by Robert Harris, eventual pope is Filipino Vincent Benitez, Archbishop of Baghdad whom late pope created cardinal “in pectore” (in secret).
The movie changes Benitez’s origin to Mexico and is played by Carlos Diehz. He is also now Archbishop Kabul and had missions in some of the most difficult nations.
There are three Filipino cardinals voting in the conclave , Luis Antonio “Chito” Tagle, Jose Advincula, and Pablo Virgilio David with Tagle heavy favorite to become first-ever pope from Asia.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
FMJ, Jpn PM tackle US tariffs, China sea aggression
By Nidz Godinoa
“On status of global economy, we discussed tariff measures taken by United States as well as impact felt on multilateral free trade regime and world economy because of reciprocal retaliations seen with United States and China,” Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru said.there are “better solutions” to dire impacts of reciprocal tariffs imposed by United States, as he vowed to listen more to other countries for insights.
At meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Ishiba said Japan and Philippines agreed to start talks on security deals that would allow them to provide vital supplies and services and exchange intelligence information as they affirmed importance of rules-based order in the face of China’s aggressive acts in the region.
“Many Japanese companies have been playing role in local economy here in the Philippines… I conveyed to President Marcos that I will listen carefully to voices so that they will be able to bring forth better solutions,” he added.
Ishiba said Japan would also cooperate with Philippines so that it could use “Japanese strengths” to achieve its goal of attaining upper-middle income status.
“I explained that we will work with Philippines in package of cooperations covering telecommunications, AZEC ,Asia zero emission community, energy, mineral resources, infrastructure and disaster risk reduction and others…the President and I agreed to further strengthen our partnership in these areas,” he added.
Ishiba also invited Marcos to attend Osaka Expo 2025, started last April 13 and will run until Oct. 13.
Negotiations on potential Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) and security of information deal were among topics discussed during their meeting.
Meeting was one of the highlights of Ishiba’s two-day official visit that seeks to further strengthen strategic partnership between Manila and Tokyo.
“Japan has been of great assistance in helping us achieve our aspiration for peace and friendship with all nations with strength and with integrity… further, we have agreed to start negotiations on Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement,” Marcos said after his bilateral meeting with the Japanese leader.
Ishiba was deeply moved that Japan and Philippines are “now partners closing in on alliance,” noting that the two countries’ bilateral security cooperation has deepened in multilayered way.
“We agreed to start negotiation through ACSA or acquisition and cross servicing agreement…we also confirmed to start government-to-government discussion on potential conclusion of security of information agreement in the future, I’d like to further strengthen communication as well as cooperation with President Marcos,” he said.
ACSA provides framework for reciprocal provision of supplies and services between two militaries.
Marcos and Ishiba announced plans to commence negotiations on ACSA nearly a year after Manila and Tokyo signed Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) established procedures for cooperative activities between their armed forces. RAA was designed to facilitate implementation of cooperative activities, such as joint exercises and disaster relief, and improve interoperability between Philippine and Japanese forces.
While they did not mention China, the two leaders emphasized need for rules-based order in the region, continues to be gripped by tensions spawned by longstanding disputes over areas in East and South China seas.
“I look forward to continuing our strengthened strategic partnership with Japan, country that shares our ideals and aspirations of upholding democratic institutions and rules-based international order,” Marcos said.
“I hope that our two nations can continuously communicate with each other to oppose attempts to change status quo in East and South China Seas by force or coercion and to realize free and open Indo-Pacific based on rule of law,” Ishiba said.
China claims practically entire South China Sea while Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei and Taiwan have overlapping claims. Hague-based arbitral tribunal voided China’s expansive claim in 2016 but Chinese government refused to recognize ruling.
Like Philippines, Japan is also embroiled in dispute with China as both countries claim ownership of Senkaku Islands in East China Sea.
Meanwhile, first of five new 97-meter patrol ships purchased from Japan are expected to arrive in late 2027, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.
Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, commandant of PCG, provided update on purchase contract during visit of Admiral Seguchi Yoshio of Japanese Coast Guard (JCG) to PCG headquarters.
Soon-to-be-delivered vessel would be similar to BRP Teresa Magbanua, he said. “We would be buying five more ships from Japan, same class as BRP Teresa Magbanua. This is one of the flagship projects of President Marcos,” Gavan said.
Gavan recalled when PCG was separated from Philippine Navy in 1998, Japan was first country to help in development of PCG, particularly in the aspect of human resources. Up to now, JCG has been organizing trainings for PCG officials and personnel.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan🎉
Mt. Bulusan erupts, vicinity Alert Level 1
By J.Lo
“Phreatic eruption occurred from summit crater of Bulusan Volcano at 04:36 in the morning today, 28 April 2025, and lasted 24 minutes based on seismic and infrasound records… event produced bent plume that rose 4,500 meters above crater before drifting west to southwest,” Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said in advisory. Mt. Bulusan in Sorsogon experienced phreatic eruption early Monday morning, April 28, prompting state volcanologists to raise Alert Level 1 over the volcano.
Phivolcs explained Alert Level 1 indicated low-level unrest with chances of more phreatic eruptions.
Ashfall was seen in localities of Irosin, Juban, and Magallanes in Sorsogon.
Pyroclastic density current (PDCs), or hot flow of volcanic materials, was seen travelling three kilometers from summit.
Phivolcs recorded 53 volcanic earthquakes on April 27.
Local officials have been instructed to enforce 4-kilometer permanent danger zone, along with additional 2-kilometer extended danger zone.
State volcanologists have also warned of potential PDCs, projectiles, rockfall and avalanches.
Phivolcs advised civil aviation authorities instruct pilots to avoid area around volcano’s summit due to potential for phreatic eruption.
“Furthermore, people living within valleys and along river/stream channels especially on southeast, southwest and northwest sector of edifice should be vigilant against sediment-laden stream flows and lahars in event of heavy and prolonged rainfall should phreatic eruption occur,” Phivolcs said.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
Philippine govt. refutes China claim of Sandy Cay ‘seizure’
By Nidz Godinoa
“No illegal seizure happened,” National Security Council (NSC) assistant director general Jonathan Malaya said at press briefing, while admonishing Beijing and its coast guard “to act with restraint and not increase tensions in West Philippine Sea, “no truth whatsoever” to China Coast Guard (CCG)’s declaration that it has seized Pag-asa (Sandy) Cay.
He also slammed Chinese state media for what he described as irresponsible announcements and statements on alleged seizure.
“The facts on the ground do not support this statement coming from Chinese Coast Guard,” Malaya said.
He said authorities had to call press conference to clarify matters and state for the record that Philippine sovereignty over Pag-asa Cays 1, 2 and 3 remains.
“This is alarming news to public…so we’re here to debunk that and to assure public that we have not lost Pag-asa Cays,” he said.
Malaya emphasized that Philippines exercises sovereignty over Sandy Cay. “Therefore, any affront to sovereignty of the Philippines in Pag-asa Cays is similar to affront to sovereignty of all other places in the mainland of Philippine archipelago,” he pointed out.
Malacañang also assured Filipinos that the administration would continue to lead in asserting Philippines’ rights in West Philippine Sea.
“There is no doubt about dedication of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to fight for our rights in our territory, our maritime rights especially in West Philippine Sea, protection of the rights of our country in accordance with international law will continue, but there is assurance that it is for peace and stability,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at press briefing.
Philippine Navy, the Philippine Coast Guard and the PNP Maritime Group conducted joint operation to check on CCG’s claim and discovered that no occupation of Pag-asa Cays on Sunday took place. Cays are within territorial waters of Pag-asa Island.
“Therefore, Philippines exercises not just sovereign rights, not just jurisdiction, we exercise sovereignty over three cays,” Malaya pointed out.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Navy spokesman for West Philippine Sea, said China’s claim was aimed at diverting public attention. He said picture showing Chinese on Pag-asa Cay was undated.
“In the information domain, this incident is latest of their trying to shape narrative to draw picture away from what is happening in Balikatan, what is happening in maritime domain with drones, what is happening across political landscape,” Trinidad said.
He also reminded China of its commitment to 2002 Declaration of Conduct, halting seizure of unoccupied features.
According to Trinidad, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been strongly monitoring country’s maritime domain.
“Any action that will go beyond current status quo will be, as we already declared, red line, especially when it comes to reclamation and building activities, Sandy Cay is only approximately three kilometers from Pag-asa… within monitoring distance by our forces stationed on the island and as mentioned by NTF and Philippine Coast Guard, there were no presence whatsoever monitored when we sent inter-agency team to Sandy Cay,” Trinidad said.
Retired Rear Adm. Rommel Jude Ong confirmed that previous Duterte administration stopped plan of military to have physical presence on Sandy Cay 2, or hut-like structure for soldiers.
“We already planned that. It was already ready to set up…last minute, it was stopped,it was not privy to reasons,” he said when asked why it was stopped.
It was around 2017 when plan was conceptualized, Ong said, citing China’s increased interest in the area.
Had it pushed through, he said structure would have been manned 24/7, citing its proximity to Pag-asa Island.
But he also admitted that putting up such structure may violate 2002 Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, prohibits occupation of new features.
“It may be considered as escalatory, not just by China, but all other parties involved because we will put up something, we installed something on new feature,” he added.
According to Ong, recent reports of China’s occupation in the cay may have been triggered by recent activities of Philippines in the area.
“Their picture taking at Sandy Cay is obviously propaganda action just to show that they own Sandy Cay,” he added.
Senators denounced CCG for falsely claiming it had seized Pag-asa Cay. “China should stop creating drama. Photoshoot gimmick and supposed planting of Chinese flag on Sandy Cay is just another spectacle orchestrated by Beijing,” Sen. Risa Hontiveros said.
“No self-respecting state would take it to mean that China now has sovereign rights over it,” Hontiveros said.
She urged Department of Foreign Affairs to file diplomatic protest against Beijing for its coast guard’s action.
“Our government should take appropriate action to safeguard our claim…Sandy Cay belongs to Philippines and no amount of island hopping of Chinese Coast Guard will muddle the truth,” Hontiveros said.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada said China’s claims to Pag-asa Cay “pose significant threat to our national sovereignty and security,” calling it “yet another attempt to distort reality of the situation and spread fake news.”
Senate majority leader Francis Tolentino said “ illegal seizure of Sandy Cay by China Coast Guard is outrageous assault on Philippine sovereignty.”
“Sandy Cay lies within our territorial waters indisputably ours under international law… this brazen intrusion must be met by strongest diplomatic and defensive measures… we must not allow foreign forces to trample upon our rights and dignity,” Tolentino added.
Speaker Martin Romualdez said China appears to be “desperate” and called action of CCG “cheap stunt.”
“Deployment of Chinese personnel to Sandy Cay, their unfurling of Chinese flag and their so-called ‘inspection’ activities are nothing more than desperate and cheap stunts, orchestrated spectacle meant to mislead and bolster their illegitimate claims,” Romualdez said.
He reminded Chinese that “Sandy Cay lies just four nautical miles from Pag-asa Island and has always been under Philippine jurisdiction.”
“We have continuously and effectively exercised jurisdiction over it… 2016 Arbitral Award has already invalidated China’s sweeping and baseless claims across South China Sea, including Sandy Cay,” the Speaker stressed.
In a statement, he also said “no fabricated display can undermine Philippines’ legitimate sovereignty over its territory and exclusive economic zone.”
“I strongly denounce latest actions of China Coast Guard in and around Sandy Cay, area well within Philippines’ EEZ and unquestionably part of Philippine sovereignty…Filipino people will not be bullied in our own backyard… Team Pilipinas tayo!” Romualdez said.
For his part, Rep. Jay Khonghun said CCG’s action was “brazen affront” to Philippine sovereignty and international law.
“This latest move by China is clear and deliberate violation of our sovereign rights, Sandy Cay belongs to the Philippines..no amount of aggressive posturing or illegal occupation can erase that fact,we must call spade a spade… China’s actions are illegal, provocative and undermine regional peace and stability,” Khonghun, first district congressman of Zambales, expressed.
“We strongly denounce China’s unlawful ‘landing’ on Sandy Cay in West Philippine Sea… Sandy Cay is part of our territory because it lies only about two nautical miles from Pag-asa Island,” Akbayan party-list first nominee Chel Diokno said. Akbayan president Rafaela David called CCG’s action “desperate Instagram moment.”
“Sorry, China, we are not impressed…no number of photo ops will change the truth: they are trespassers, and we are rightful owners of Sandy Cay and West Philippine Sea,” David said.
“No illegal seizure happened,” National Security Council (NSC) assistant director general Jonathan Malaya said at press briefing, while admonishing Beijing and its coast guard “to act with restraint and not increase tensions in West Philippine Sea, “no truth whatsoever” to China Coast Guard (CCG)’s declaration that it has seized Pag-asa (Sandy) Cay.
He also slammed Chinese state media for what he described as irresponsible announcements and statements on alleged seizure.
“The facts on the ground do not support this statement coming from Chinese Coast Guard,” Malaya said.
He said authorities had to call press conference to clarify matters and state for the record that Philippine sovereignty over Pag-asa Cays 1, 2 and 3 remains.
“This is alarming news to public…so we’re here to debunk that and to assure public that we have not lost Pag-asa Cays,” he said.
Malaya emphasized that Philippines exercises sovereignty over Sandy Cay. “Therefore, any affront to sovereignty of the Philippines in Pag-asa Cays is similar to affront to sovereignty of all other places in the mainland of Philippine archipelago,” he pointed out.
Malacañang also assured Filipinos that the administration would continue to lead in asserting Philippines’ rights in West Philippine Sea.
“There is no doubt about dedication of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to fight for our rights in our territory, our maritime rights especially in West Philippine Sea, protection of the rights of our country in accordance with international law will continue, but there is assurance that it is for peace and stability,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at press briefing.
Philippine Navy, the Philippine Coast Guard and the PNP Maritime Group conducted joint operation to check on CCG’s claim and discovered that no occupation of Pag-asa Cays on Sunday took place. Cays are within territorial waters of Pag-asa Island.
“Therefore, Philippines exercises not just sovereign rights, not just jurisdiction, we exercise sovereignty over three cays,” Malaya pointed out.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Navy spokesman for West Philippine Sea, said China’s claim was aimed at diverting public attention. He said picture showing Chinese on Pag-asa Cay was undated.
“In the information domain, this incident is latest of their trying to shape narrative to draw picture away from what is happening in Balikatan, what is happening in maritime domain with drones, what is happening across political landscape,” Trinidad said.
He also reminded China of its commitment to 2002 Declaration of Conduct, halting seizure of unoccupied features.
According to Trinidad, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been strongly monitoring country’s maritime domain.
“Any action that will go beyond current status quo will be, as we already declared, red line, especially when it comes to reclamation and building activities, Sandy Cay is only approximately three kilometers from Pag-asa… within monitoring distance by our forces stationed on the island and as mentioned by NTF and Philippine Coast Guard, there were no presence whatsoever monitored when we sent inter-agency team to Sandy Cay,” Trinidad said.
Retired Rear Adm. Rommel Jude Ong confirmed that previous Duterte administration stopped plan of military to have physical presence on Sandy Cay 2, or hut-like structure for soldiers.
“We already planned that. It was already ready to set up…last minute, it was stopped,it was not privy to reasons,” he said when asked why it was stopped.
It was around 2017 when plan was conceptualized, Ong said, citing China’s increased interest in the area.
Had it pushed through, he said structure would have been manned 24/7, citing its proximity to Pag-asa Island.
But he also admitted that putting up such structure may violate 2002 Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, prohibits occupation of new features.
“It may be considered as escalatory, not just by China, but all other parties involved because we will put up something, we installed something on new feature,” he added.
According to Ong, recent reports of China’s occupation in the cay may have been triggered by recent activities of Philippines in the area.
“Their picture taking at Sandy Cay is obviously propaganda action just to show that they own Sandy Cay,” he added.
Senators denounced CCG for falsely claiming it had seized Pag-asa Cay. “China should stop creating drama. Photoshoot gimmick and supposed planting of Chinese flag on Sandy Cay is just another spectacle orchestrated by Beijing,” Sen. Risa Hontiveros said.
“No self-respecting state would take it to mean that China now has sovereign rights over it,” Hontiveros said.
She urged Department of Foreign Affairs to file diplomatic protest against Beijing for its coast guard’s action.
“Our government should take appropriate action to safeguard our claim…Sandy Cay belongs to Philippines and no amount of island hopping of Chinese Coast Guard will muddle the truth,” Hontiveros said.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada said China’s claims to Pag-asa Cay “pose significant threat to our national sovereignty and security,” calling it “yet another attempt to distort reality of the situation and spread fake news.”
Senate majority leader Francis Tolentino said “ illegal seizure of Sandy Cay by China Coast Guard is outrageous assault on Philippine sovereignty.”
“Sandy Cay lies within our territorial waters indisputably ours under international law… this brazen intrusion must be met by strongest diplomatic and defensive measures… we must not allow foreign forces to trample upon our rights and dignity,” Tolentino added.
Speaker Martin Romualdez said China appears to be “desperate” and called action of CCG “cheap stunt.”
“Deployment of Chinese personnel to Sandy Cay, their unfurling of Chinese flag and their so-called ‘inspection’ activities are nothing more than desperate and cheap stunts, orchestrated spectacle meant to mislead and bolster their illegitimate claims,” Romualdez said.
He reminded Chinese that “Sandy Cay lies just four nautical miles from Pag-asa Island and has always been under Philippine jurisdiction.”
“We have continuously and effectively exercised jurisdiction over it… 2016 Arbitral Award has already invalidated China’s sweeping and baseless claims across South China Sea, including Sandy Cay,” the Speaker stressed.
In a statement, he also said “no fabricated display can undermine Philippines’ legitimate sovereignty over its territory and exclusive economic zone.”
“I strongly denounce latest actions of China Coast Guard in and around Sandy Cay, area well within Philippines’ EEZ and unquestionably part of Philippine sovereignty…Filipino people will not be bullied in our own backyard… Team Pilipinas tayo!” Romualdez said.
For his part, Rep. Jay Khonghun said CCG’s action was “brazen affront” to Philippine sovereignty and international law.
“This latest move by China is clear and deliberate violation of our sovereign rights, Sandy Cay belongs to the Philippines..no amount of aggressive posturing or illegal occupation can erase that fact,we must call spade a spade… China’s actions are illegal, provocative and undermine regional peace and stability,” Khonghun, first district congressman of Zambales, expressed.
“We strongly denounce China’s unlawful ‘landing’ on Sandy Cay in West Philippine Sea… Sandy Cay is part of our territory because it lies only about two nautical miles from Pag-asa Island,” Akbayan party-list first nominee Chel Diokno said. Akbayan president Rafaela David called CCG’s action “desperate Instagram moment.”
“Sorry, China, we are not impressed…no number of photo ops will change the truth: they are trespassers, and we are rightful owners of Sandy Cay and West Philippine Sea,” David said.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
“To our local absentee voters, we need you to come election day…thus, it’s important for you to cast your votes now until April 30,” Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said government employees and other qualified individuals who will be performing election-related duties can already cast their votes starting today.
Garcia said the poll body is set to conduct Local Absentee Voting (LAV) until April 30.
Local absentee voters may cast their votes from 8 in the morning to 5 in the afternoon.
Garcia urged over 57,000 police officers, soldiers, government personnel and members of media to cast their votes.LAV, Garcia said, its Comelec’s way of recognizing gallant performance of those government and media personnel on election day.
“You’re all heroes to us, so we want to give you this special treatment,” Garcia said.
Comelec previously approved total of 57,689 LAV voters.Number includes 29,030 Armed Forces personnel, 23,448 national police, 4,206 government employees and 1,005 members of media.
Those participating in LAV will vote for 12 senators and one party-list organization using automated counting machines (ACMs).
Government officials and employees, including policemen and military, shall vote in venues pre-determined by heads of offices/supervisors/commanders, while members of the media will vote at Comelec offices where they filed their applications for LAV.
In the 2022 elections, LAV had 88 percent voter turnout out of over 84,000 qualified local absentee voters.
5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
6 Who, being in very nature[a] God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature[b] of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
PM for any hospital discharge problem
abs 2025, Bocaue, Bulacan🎉
FMJ vetoes bill amending BCDA charter
By Nidz Godino
“Although President Marcos recognized Congress’ noble intention in crafting the bill, he said he could not ignore concerns raised by national agencies,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO)said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has vetoed bill seeking to amend charter of Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), citing possible conflict with existing laws and “adverse” impact on government’s fiscal position.
Marcos noted several issues with enrolled bill, including proposed increase of P100 billion in authorized capital, he said could affect government’s fiscal integrity, PCO said in statement, quoting the President’s veto message dated April 24 that was transmitted to Congress.
Marcos said proposal to use proceeds from sale of allocated lands from ecozones to accrue mainly to BCDA is inconsistent with government’s one-fund policy, limiting its fiscal flexibility in deciding fund utilization for more pressing concerns.
In addition, bill antithetically grants BCDA authority to determine alienable and disposable lands, clearly falls under mandate of Department of Environment and Natural Resources, he said.
Marcos added bill’s language granting land ownership and authority to BCDA in disposing of lands contradicts Republic v. Heirs of Bernabe, provides state is beneficial owner of lands transferred to BCDA by virtue of Republic Act 7227.
Created in 1992, BCDA is government-owned and -controlled corporation, mandated to transform former US military bases into alternative productive civilian use.
Joins Christian families in observance of Holy Month April
Warmest Month April in iskup
supports Food Month April
supports Araw ng Kagitingan 2025 theme Kabayanihan ng Beterano: Sandigan ng Kaunlaran ng Bagong Pilipinas
election campaign period, gun ban in effect
No to Divorce!!!
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 19k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2.1k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Edison Palero appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Deepest sympathy to the family of the late Lourdes Co, her remains lies in St. Peter Chapels , Sucat, Paranaque
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
FMJ joins world leaders, multitude of mourners at pope’s funeral
By Nidz Godino
“When I met him, he was humble and kind, and you feel like you’re blessed by God,” First Lady Liza Marcos was teary eyed when she reminisced about the kindness of the late Pope Francis. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. joined around 170 world leaders and 250,000 mourners at funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City.
Marcos, accompanied by the First Lady arrived in Rome Friday morning (Vatican time).
Photos released by the Presidential Communications Office showed the President in dark gray suit and the First Lady in black dress arriving at St. Peter’s Square for the late pontiff’s funeral. They were both wearing pin of Philippine flag on their left chest.
PCO and Philippine Ambassador to Italy Neal Imperial shared photos of Marcos’ separate interactions with US President Donald Trump and former US president Joe Biden at St. Peter’s Square. Video posted on social media showed Marcoses conversing with Biden and wife Jill before funeral mass started at 4 in the afternoon. (Philippine time).
The President’s trip to Vatican is until April 28 based on Special Order 424 he issued on Thursday.
Marcos earlier declared period of national mourning over passing of Francis, he said “holds special place in the hearts of Filipino people.”
Francis visited Philippines in January 2015, during which he offered comfort and solidarity to victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda.
According to Marcos’ Proclamation 871, Filipino people recognize late pope “as global leader of compassion and tireless advocate of peace, justice and human dignity.”
Philippines is predominantly Roman Catholic.
On Friday, the First Couple were spotted at Piazza Navona, where they were having coffee and appeared to be reminiscing the time they were dating there,. The First Couple tied knot at San Francesco Convent in Fiesole, Italy on April 17, 1993.
In Tacloban City, more than 6,000 fanatics including Speaker Martin Romualdez – attended mass at the new Daniel Z. Romualdez (DZR) airport’s tarmac in honor of the late pope and to mark 10th anniversary of his visit to Tacloban City after devastation of Super Typhoon Yolanda.
DZR airport tarmac was the exact location of the mass Francis himself officiated on Jan. 17, 2015, more than a year after Yolanda ravaged Tacloban in November 2013. Msgr. Ramon Stephen Aguilos was the main celebrant at yesterday’s mass.
“Pope Francis gave us more than hope,” Romualdez said after the mass. “He showed world how to lead with compassion…he stood with us not just as pope, but as father to suffering…his presence gave us strength to rise.”
“He gave us courage to begin again…when we felt forgotten, he remembered…when we were broken, he came to bless brokenness…something people never forget,” he said.
Romualdez recalled powerful image of Francis celebrating mass under stormy skies in yellow raincoat.
“That yellow raincoat became our banner of faith…we saw in him not distant leader, but loving father: present, soaked in our sorrow and filled with love, ” Romualdez said.
In Quezon City, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino recalled being given privilege of providing security to the pope, as chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
“I had the privilege of escorting him during his visit to Tacloban… I was also one of those who provided his close-in security, in coordination with Presidential Security Group then, ” Tolentino said at press briefing.
The MMDA motorcycle escorts were at the pope’s side throughout his stay in the stormy Tacloban.
“Pope Francis called them in… MMDA motorcycle riders all kneeled before him, and then he approached and blessed them, one by one…it was warm and heart-touching scene,” Tolentino said.
ISKUP! 