Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.3k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
“Schools shall avoid scheduling their end-of-school-year rites during time of the day when temperatures are at their highest,” Department of Education (DepEd) warned public schools to engage in partisan political activities nor campaign for candidates during graduation and moving-up ceremonies.
DepEd officials said teaching and non-teaching personnel are prohibited from engaging in electioneering or partisan political activity amid upcoming midterm polls in May, per Memorandum 27 signed on March 21 by Education Secretary Sonny Angara.
Violators could face penalties, DepEd said.
Excessive spending, extravagant attires or renting extraordinary venues should be avoided in conducting rites, DepEd said.
Expenses for graduation and moving-up rites should be charged to schools’ operating expenses and no contributions or fees must be collected, DepEd noted.
End-of-school-year rites have been scheduled on April 14 to 15 for kindergarten, Grade 6, 10 and 12 students, as well as those in the Alternative Learning System.
In anticipation of intense heat waves, DepEd reminded schools to hold rites in indoor venues with proper ventilation to avoid exposure to intense sunlight.
Fraudsters offering victories to candidates in May midterm polls have resurfaced, according to Commission on Elections.
“These illegal activities stopped momentarily, but we are expecting their resurgence by April,” Comelec Chairman George Garcia said.
Four persons claiming they can manipulate election results were arrested in February, he recalled.
Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group have been asked to stop such illegal operations, Garcia said.
Candidates should not deal with unscrupulous people, Garcia said, giving assurance that automated election system cannot be tampered with.
Meanwhile, poll body will mount on Friday nationwide “Oplan Baklas” at the start of local campaign.
Illegal campaign materials will be removed and notices will be sent to candidates for removal of their illegal posters, billboards and tarpaulins, Garcia said.
Criminal charges will be filed against candidates who fail to remove their unauthorized campaign materials within three days, he noted.
Garcia said local elections are seen to be more violent than national elections.
He urged candidates to abide by campaign regulations to avoid penalties and prevent violence.
“On March 28, may it be national or local, we will have power to remove illegal campaign materials,” Garcia said.
Candidates should train their people to set up campaign materials in designated areas, he said.
As for increasing complaints of red-tagging and other discrimination against candidates, Garcia said Comelec’s Task Force Safe will look into it.
Complainants should submit evidence that they are being discriminated against by their opponents or local government units, Garcia noted.
Meanwhile, poll workers should be paid net honorarium of P15,000, Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) told Comelec and Department of Budget and Management.
Bill exempting from income taxation honoraria, allowances and other financial benefits of election service workers should also be certified as urgent by Marcos administration, ACT said.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.3k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 1.9k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Banks to enhance surveillance of illegal poll activities
By Nidz Godino
“BSFIs should reinforce their measures and controls to ensure appropriate customer onboarding processes, effective fraud management system and ongoing account and transaction monitoring capabilities are commensurate to respond against these fraudulent activities,” Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor Chuchi Fonacier said banks and financial institutions should be cautious of potential misuse of their systems for poll-related offenses amid upcoming midterm elections in May.
Abuse of state resources, vote buying and selling are among offenses that must be thwarted by enhancing surveillance and monitoring of financial channels, Fonacier said in memorandum to BSP-supervised financial institutions.
Fraud detection and anti-money laundering controls must be tightened by BSFIs to detect and prevent suspicious transactions, she noted.
Red flags include significant number of new account registrations in areas where vote buying is suspected to be rampant, as well as large cash transactions or check encashments during election period.
Irregular transaction patterns and unusually large cash deposits or withdrawals, especially through cash-out agents, should be monitored by BSFIs.
Suspicious transactions with no clear legal, trade or economic justification should be reported to Anti-Money Laundering Council, Fonacier said.
BSP has partnered with Commission on Elections (Comelec) in securing final trusted build of automated election system (AES).
At yesterday’s formal escrow agreement signing, AES software and source codes were deposited with BSP to ensure their integrity leading up to elections.
“By taking custody of source code, BSP reaffirms not only its legal obligation but also its steadfast commitment to supporting clean and transparent elections,” BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said.
Source codes are stored in digital media storage devices after undergoing full final trusted build international certification and local source code review.
Sources codes for 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019 and 2022 elections are deposited in BSP’s vaults.
Comelec Chairman George Garcia allayed fears of cheating in elections.
“We guarantee everyone that dagdag-bawas is impossible in automated election,” Garcia said.
Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio earlier said her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, is concerned over possibility of “dagdag-bawas” electoral fraud in the upcoming polls.
Not a single case of “dagdag-bawas” has been proven since adoption of automated elections in 2010, Garcia noted.
Meanwhile, barangay officials have been warned against using public funds, state resources and facilities for candidates’ campaigns.
Local officials will be charged with election offenses if they violate this rule, Garcia said.
Plazas and basketball courts, he said, are public facilities and should not be used exclusively by one candidate.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.3k 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 Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Ch ships swarm Panatag anew – PCG
By J.Lo
“Reason why we kept such distance was because PCG and BFAR vessels stopped at that position to give away fuel subsidy and food items to Filipino fishing boats,” Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesman on West Philippine Sea said Chinese vessels including warship were again seen swarming around Bajo de Masinloc or Panatag Shoal.
Air patrol over the area by Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) revealed presence of five China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels, according to Tarriela.
Four Chinese maritime militia ships were detected at distances of 2.7 nautical miles and 8.69 nautical miles, both southeast from area considered traditional fishing area of Filipinos.
In addition, there was warship of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA)-Navy with bow number 574 seen around 25 nautical miles southeast of Bajo de Masinloc.
At online briefing, Tarriela also reported PCG patrol vessels BRP Bagacay and BRP Cabra, four BFAR ships and 26 Filipino fishing boats were also around Bajo de Masinloc.
Two PCG vessels kept distance of 13 nautical miles southwest of Bajo de Masinloc, he noted.
Information gathered by BFAR in its air patrol was contrary to post on X by former US Air Force official and defense attaché Ray Powell that “BRP Bagacay & BRP Datu Pagbuaya have been intercepted by 2 China Coast Guard as third & 6 maritime militia ships set up blocking positions.”
Powell could not properly monitor operation of PCG and BFAR because “he is just basing on movement of AIS (automatic identification system),” hence “he doesn’t have clear picture,” he added.
Tarriela also disclosed CCG once again installed floating barriers at the entrance of Bajo de Masinloc, he said were “placed every time Chinese forces monitor presence of Philippine government vessels.”
Furthermore, PLA-Navy helicopter appeared to follow BFAR aircraft conducted air patrol from distance of three nautical miles, he added.
Last month, PLA-Navy aircraft came as close as three meters to BFAR aircraft conducting patrol.
“I’d like to believe PLA-Navy learned from backlash from international community,” he said.
Meanwhile, PCG said in statement eight Chinese crew members of vessel in anchorage area in Manila Bay may have disembarked “mysteriously” from ship, the Coast Guard said.
In statement, PCG discovered incident after conducting joint inspection with other agencies of three foreign-manned vessels last March 20. One of the vessels, MV Huagan 98, was supposed to have Chinese crew based on ship’s records, but none were found during inspection.
“Authorities found no Chinese nationals onboard…however, vessel calendar indicated presence of seven Chinese crew members as of 19 March 2025… review of logbook revealed eight Chinese nationals mysteriously disembarked before dawn on 20 March 2025, despite existing MARINA ,Maritime Industry Authority regulations limiting foreign crew members to supernumerary roles for single voyage without prolonged stay onboard, all Chinese nationals were assigned official designations,” PCG said.
Ship’s unnamed captain reportedly denied presence of Chinese nationals on board.
Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is set to summon officials of the shipping company involved to explain misrepresentation issues.
Authorities also took note of missing Domestic Shipping Operation Certificate and raised safety and security concerns due to non-functioning close circuit television.
PCG, DOLE, MARINA, Bureau of Immigration and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency also reportedly noted deficiencies in two other foreign ships checked at anchorage area last Thursday, namely MV An Da Kang and MV Shingping.
According to PCG, An Da Kang was found to have illegal manning and crew turnover violations.
Chinese crew members were reportedly authorized to work in Zambales but were found operating in Manila waters. Vessel also reportedly did not have valid Domestic Shipping Operation Certificate.
As for Shingping, authorities said its crew had questionable designations. There were reportedly 12 Chinese nationals onboard Shingping, all designated as “technicians.” Their designation did not match their Alien Employment Permits. DOLE said such discrepancy could lead to revocation of their AEPs.
“PCG and its partner agencies remain steadfast in ensuring compliance with Philippine maritime laws…appropriate legal actions will be pursued against erring shipping companies and vessel operators found violating labor and immigration policies,” Coast Guard said.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.2k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
“I have instructed our technical intelligence and cybercrime divisions to take decisive action…we want these individuals to know that we are serious about this,” National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Jaime Santiago said NCI is now digging who is bankrolling spread of fake news on social media.
Question NBI seeks to answer soon, as it works to unmask mastermind behind extensive disinformation campaign.
Santiago said NBI is investigating whether individuals or groups are funding vloggers to disseminate false information online.
Probe comes after arrest of fake news vlogger in Cebu, who denied working under anyone’s orders or receiving payment to spread false information.
As part of its ongoing efforts, NBI is closely monitoring at least 20 vloggers suspected of spreading fake news and is gathering evidence to file cases against them.
“They are already listed, and we have identified them,” Santiago said.
Santiago said NBI is keeping close watch on both little-known and high-profile individuals involved in spreading false information.
“We are preserving all their statements and published content,” he warned.
Meanwhile, Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group is also intensifying its efforts to combat fake news, misinformation and disinformation circulating online.
Lt. Wallen Arancillo, PNP ACG spokesperson, said authorities are actively conducting online investigations and monitoring illegal online activities, with false information being most prevalent issue detected.
“When we identify accounts posting fake news, we conduct investigation until we determine actual owner behind post,” Arancillo said.
He added PNP ACG has been directed to strengthen its efforts against online misinformation, particularly those that misuse uniformed personnel in misleading posts.
One notable piece of false information being spread online claims many PNP officers are resigning due to arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte, something police force has dismissed as baseless.
Arancillo had spoken with chief of PNP’s intelligence unit, who confirmed online investigations are ongoing, and necessary documents are being prepared for further action.
PNP ACG urged public to be vigilant against fake news and refrain from sharing unverified information, emphasizing spreading falsehoods could lead to legal consequences.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.2k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
PM for any hospital discharge problem
‘Govt must serve with integrity to rise above adversities’
By Nidz Godino
“When peace and order are in place, we can pursue knowledge, we can work towards prosperity and we can contribute to our country’s progress,” the President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.said as his administration grapples with political issues, has highlighted need for government to serve with integrity and to work more vigorously in creating united, just and peaceful country.
Speaking during Philippine Army’s 128th anniversary celebration at Fort Bonifacio, Marcos said efforts to enhance skills and promote welfare of soldiers form part of broader vision of nation where Filipinos no longer need to worry about their safety.
“To achieve this, government must lead by example…we strive for government that listens, that acts and serves with integrity… only way to rise above adversities and move forward as people,” he added.
Noting emergence of more complex threats, Marcos said being soldier requires not just courage and skills, but also firm resolve and willingness to serve.
“What is needed is stance that will not waver in the face of trials, principle that cannot be bent by fear and heart ready to serve faithfully without waiting for anything in return, in any institution, rank or power is not enough… true measure is readiness to set aside one’s personal interests for higher aim…even if we play different roles, our goal to form united, just and truly peaceful country must prevail,” he said.
According to Marcos, public servants choose to serve not for themselves but for “countless generations that will come after us.”
Marcos emphasized need for unity as Philippines is gripped with political discord arising from arrest of his critic, former president Rodrigo Duterte, for alleged crimes against humanity.
Duterte, whose campaign against illegal drugs left thousands dead, is now under custody of International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.
However, Duterte’s allies have argued that his arrest on ICC warrant was illegal, prompting them to ask Supreme Court to compel government to stop cooperating with international tribunal.
Marcos administration has maintained Duterte’s arrest followed due process and was in line with Philippines’ commitment with International Criminal Police Organization.
Marcos expressed optimism Army would be able to withstand future challenges, saying its strength extends beyond firepower, as it draws from its personnel’s honor, integrity and fortitude.
“Road ahead is not easy…there will be delays, frustrations and challenges as they always are…our strength and resolve will continue to be tested…but I have no doubt, Philippine Army will withstand test, will stand firm, as it always has in the past 128 years,” Marcos said.
The President also called on country’s ground troops to stay relentless in their pursuit of excellence, as well as to sharpen their skills, master their craft and embrace innovation…he lauded Army for its contributions to the nation, describing major service as “pillar of strength and of stability.”
Marcos said Army has been faithful to its duty whether in combat, in crisis or in calamity. He also commended Army for its perfect score in policy and facility assessments during General Security of Military Information Agreement evaluation.
“They have proven themselves to be ready, reliable and resolute in their sworn oath to their duty to our people,” Marcos, also commander-in-chief of armed forces, said.
Marcos said his administration remains committed to ensuring that Army, military’s largest major service, is always ready to fulfill its mission. He cited conduct of second Combined Arms Training Exercise or CATEX Katihan, he said was crucial in sharpening soldiers’ combat readiness and capability to respond to threats.
Marcos also mentioned his issuance of Executive Order no. 84, raised subsistence allowance of all military officers and personnel.
“While nothing can match your sacrifices for our country, we are hoping that we can assist you so you can better perform your duties, just like your promotion of rights of the people and peace in communities, we are ready to be your advocate, especially in times of need,” the Chief Executive said.
Marcos praised Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido for his leadership and thanked soldiers for their service.
“Threats have grown increasingly more complex, and battleground is no longer contained in land ,it now extends into cyberspace and beyond, challenges demand greater adaptability, greater discipline and further commitment to nation’s security and progress…and yet, through all this, Philippine Army has never wavered,” he said.
Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte also paid tribute to Army in video statement on Facebook. The Vice President is in The Hague, where her father former president Rodrigo Duterte is detained.
“Today, we honor institution deeply rooted in our nation’s history…for generations, brave men and women of the Philippine Army have shown Filipino fighting spirit burns in the hearts of every Filipino , flame that proves we are nation of patriots, let us remember our fallen soldiers…their names may be carved in stone, but their spirits live on in the nation they helped build through their sacrifice, courage and bravery…they died for us to live in peace,” the Vice President said.
The Vice President also honored retired Army veterans “for inspiring new generation of Filipinos to follow their lead and serve the nation.”
She commended active members of Philippine Army for serving the country with “integrity, honor and undying commitment.”
“May your ranks be filled with courage, your missions guided by honor and your hearts strengthened by knowledge that your service inspires future generations, through challenges, Philippine Army will emerge stronger, more respected and more committed to protecting our people and the Constitution,” she added.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.2k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
“With profound sorrow we announce passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr., who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones,” Foreman’s family said in statement on Instagram former heavyweight champion George Foreman, who lost to Muhammad Ali in boxing’s iconic 1974 “Rumble in the Jungle” before reclaiming the title two decades later, died Friday aged 76.
Fondly known as Big George, Foreman dropped out of school as teenager and went on to become Olympic champion and later boxing legend.
He fought 81 times as professional, winning 76, 68 of those by knockout.
As well as boxing he put his name to “George Foreman Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine,” appearing smiling and friendly in TV ads, becoming celebrity outside sport.
“We are grateful for outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honor extraordinary life of man we were blessed to call our own.”
Legendary boxing promoter Bob Arum saluted Foreman as “one of the biggest punchers and personalities sport has ever seen.”
Born in Texas on Jan. 10, 1949, Foreman grew up in Houston.
The man who raised him was frequently absent and often drunk. Foreman only found out that J.D. Foreman was not his biological father after he won world heavyweight title when his real father, decorated World War II veteran, got in touch.
As an adolescent, Foreman flirted with crime and left school at 16.
“At 13 years old, George was about 6-foot-2, 200 pounds and terrorist in the neighborhood,” his younger brother Roy told BBC in 2024. “And when you’re bigger and stronger and think you’re better than everyone else, you take things.”
Foreman took up boxing.
“I tried boxing just to show my friends that I wasn’t afraid, well, 25 fights and one year later, I was Olympic gold medalist” Foreman said later.
At Mexico Games in 1968, 19-year-old Foreman bludgeoned his way to super-heavyweight gold.
As he celebrated his final victory, 10 days after fellow African Americans Tommie Smith and John Carlos had made black power salute following 200m track final, Foreman waved American flag in the ring.
At 6-foot-4 (1.93m), “Big George” was larger and stronger than other leading heavyweights of the time. He was light on his feet, but slugged his way through professional ranks to earn heavyweight title shot against champion Joe Frazier, demolishing the champion in two rounds.
By the time he fought his third title defense over 15 rounds against Ali in October 1974 in Kinshasa, Foreman was unbeaten in 40 professional bouts.
He had won all but three inside distance and had not needed to develop stamina.
Ali’s “rope-a-dope” tactics exhausted big man, who lost in eight rounds.
Defeat punctured Foreman’s intimidating aura, not least in his own mind.
“I just couldn’t believe I’d lost world title, most embarrassing moment of my life…it went from pride to pity… devastating,” he said later.
His campaign for another title shot ended when he lost on points to another contender, Jimmy Young, in March 1977 on hot night in Puerto Rico.
Foreman fell ill after the fight and said he sensed God telling him to change his life.
He retired aged 28 and became ordained minister.
When he announced his comeback 10 years later, bald where he had once sported Afro and flabby instead of chiseled, it seemed like boxing gimmick. He wrote later that he needed money for his youth center.
Over the next three years he fought 21 times, mostly against mediocre opponents, winning every bout, 20 of them inside distance.
Big name in weakened and fragmented division, he earned title shot against Evander Holyfield in 1991 and then against Tommy Morrison two years later, losing both on points.
In November 1994 he faced Michael Moorer, who had dethroned Holyfield. In the same shorts he had worn 20 years and six days earlier against Ali, Foreman was trailing badly when he caught Moorer on the chin in the 10th for knockout.
At 45 years and 299 days old, he was the oldest heavyweight world champion.
He was stripped of first his WBA title and then his IBF crown for refusing to fight nominated opponents but won three more fights and was still “lineal” world champion when he lost on points to Shannon Briggs in 1997, aged 48, and retired again.
Foreman, hosted 1996 TV program “Bad Dads,” married four times, fathering 10 children and adopting two.
He named all his five sons George Edward, explaining that he wanted them to know, “‘if one of us goes up, then we all go up together, and if one goes down, we all go down together!’”
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.2k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
PM for any hospital discharge problem
FMJ picks digital technocrat as new DICT chief
By Nidz Godino
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.has named Henry Rhoel Aguda, former president and chief executive officer of UnionDigital Bank new chief of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).
Aguda replace Ivan John Uy, who resigned from DICT.
In statement, Presidential Communications Office said Aguda’s experience spans banking, technology and telecommunications sectors. He specializes in digital transformation, digital banking and financial crimes.
Aguda was the digital infrastructure lead at Private Sector Advisory Council, formed by Marcos to strengthen coordination and partnership between government and private sector.
Aguda was board chairman of City Savings Bank and UBX Philippines and worked as director of Insular Health Care, BancNet, Metaverse Ventures and Platforms and Philippine Clearing House Corp.
He was the senior executive vice president at Union Bank of the Philippines and chief technology officer at Amihan Global Strategies, Globe Telecom, Government Service Insurance System and Digitel.
He likewise led software development services at WeServ Systems International and Nextel’s information operations aside from serving as assistant vice president at Bayantel Communication Holdings. Aguda also managed corporate data network for Meralco.
Aguda finished his juris doctor and bachelor of science in mathematics degree at the University of the Philippines, both cum laude.
He took graduate studies in advanced management program at Harvard Business School and strategic alliance program at Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He is taking his master’s degree in applied business economics at the University of Asia and the Pacific.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.2k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
“Their target is specific,” Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Undersecretary Jeffrey Ian Dy said citing digital assets of Philippine Coast Guard, Office of the President, DICT, National Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies,cybersecurity activities targeting government websites have increased following arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte.
Dy said attacks related to Duterte’s arrest can be traced mostly to local hackers, many of whom are attempting to deface government websites.
Aside from these local attempts, said are mostly aimed at embarrassing the government, Dy said they also monitored increase in activity of so-called advanced persistent threat or APT actors. These include those whose “modus operandi” is associated with Chinese actors.
He said it is possible that they are riding on recent issues to achieve their objective, to “gain access to critical databases of government.”
“I feel that they are riding on recent issues… if attacks are voluminous, their activities will be hidden, there is increase in cybersecurity activities targeting government digital assets since arrest of the former president, most of these attacks don’t really go through, but some did…there was defacement in DA ,Department of Agriculture and some DILG ,Department of the Interior and Local Government websites” he added.
Since last week alone, Dy have monitored around 70,000 to 80,000 “malicious attempts.”
“This is quite high…we’re still trying to look into patterns,” he added.
Pro-Duterte vloggers and influencers apologized for spreading fake news and disinformation in their vlogs during House of Representatives’ probe.
Vloggers Krizette Laureta Chu, claimed being editor of big newspaper, Mary Jane Quiambao Reyes and Mark Lopez were subjected to thorough scrutiny by lawmakers investigating spread of fake news and misinformation through social media.
Manila 6th district Rep. Benny Abante scrutinized Chu for her claims that children of congressmen were sent to study in Europe and Switzerland, and that government leaders were “fools” to even think of trying to get loans from other countries, as well her assertions that some Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) beneficiaries were given financial assistance even if they can afford to have braces on their teeth.
Chu admitted that all these vlogs were based on news reports and not on facts.
“I apologize… I don’t know what happened on Dec. 28 to make me angry if I wrote about it that time…it is in news that we will have to get loan this year, that is why I was angered… I was angered because I saw beneficiary of AKAP with brace… I am not laying it on congressmen… I am laying it on the… to give that person P5,000 despite that, because I am taxpayer,” Chu said.
Abang Lingkod party-list Rep. Stephen Joseph Paduano also grilled Reyes over her post claiming that extrajudicial killings were hoax.
When asked if she had documents or proof to support her claim, Reyes admitted she had none.
“OK sir, next time, sir…next time before I write something, I will get documents first under oath and not just base it from mainstream media,” Reyes said in response.
Lopez, another pro-Duterte influencer, also found himself in hot water over social media posts concerning South China Sea.
Lopez admitted to spreading falsehoods. “Sorry po, fake news po ako,” he admitted before panel.
House committee on overseas workers affairs chairman and Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre also confronted Chu over her claims of mass resignation among policemen because of Duterte’s arrest and subsequent detention in The Hague for warrant issued by International Criminal Court (ICC).
Acidre questioned her source, to which Chu admitted she based her claim on unverified TikTok posts.
“In other words, it was just your impression…in short, it was rumor, it was lie you propagated,” Acidre pointed out.
But Chu insisted she used word “daw” to indicate uncertainty.
Acidre countered that legitimate journalists do not operate on “general impressions” and must verify information before publishing. National Bureau of Investigation arrested content creator in Cebu for allegedly spreading fake news and altering news report from media agency, NBI Director Jaime Santiago announced.
Suspect Wendeline Abduhan Magalso was taken into custody by NBI agents from agency’s regional office in Cebu following operation coordinated with Facebook, Santiago told reporters at NBI headquarters in Manila.
“Arrest stemmed from altered version of TV5 news report, included manipulated statements attributed to President Marcos Jr., as I promised, we are taking serious steps against vloggers who spread fake news,” Santiago said .
Further coordination with Facebook led NBI to Magalso, prompting agents in Cebu to conduct operation and arrest her.
Santiago warned other vloggers engaged in disinformation that NBI is actively monitoring online activities. “We are taking this matter seriously,” he said.
NBI has yet to release details on charges filed against Magalso, but Santiago reiterated authorities will continue to crack down on spread of fake news online.
Vloggers and social media influencers, mostly pro-Duterte, attended state-sponsored seminar in China in 2023 with all expenses paid by Chinese government, former Presidential Communications Office (PCO) secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles admitted during hearing.
Angeles made admission under questioning by House deputy speaker David Suarez about National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) of China and its role in training media practitioners from different countries.
Suarez showed photo of attendees to NRTA seminar, with Angeles and other pro-Duterte vloggers posing for picture.
Angeles confirmed her awareness of such programs, acknowledging that she was one of the invitees. She named fellow participants in the seminar, took place from May 23 to June 5, 2023, in China.
“Myself, Pia Morato, Tio Moreno was there as journalist and I think information officer Mr. Mark Lopez and attorney Ahmed Paglinawan,” she said, adding that she could not recall other names.
When pressed by Suarez about who funded the trip, Angeles admitted seminar was “sponsored,” with Chinese government covering travel, accommodation and seminar costs.
Former PCO chief revealed invitation came directly from Chinese embassy, regularly selects participants for such programs.
“They conduct these regularly, I understand,” she said, adding that mainstream media practitioners were also invited at different times.
“They introduced new techniques in social media such as short-form videos, how to take them and other technical aspects…they also gave background on China,” she said.
Suarez also turned to pro-Duterte vlogger Lopez, confirming his participation. “Sir, that is the only one that I have attended,” Lopez said, affirming it was his only China-sponsored seminar.
Suarez then asked whether seminar influenced their work.
Angeles downplayed its impact on her political views, saying she was already well-versed in China’s history.
Lopez, on the other hand, said he gained understanding of “how China media works.”
Meanwhile, Sagip party-list Rep. Rodante Marcoleta wants to see “face-to-face” in Congress vlogger who called him “demon” in one post.
During House tri-comm’s third hearing on malicious and fake online content, Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel granted Marcoleta’s motion to summon one Epifanio Labrador.
In video shown during hearing, Labrador cursed Marcoleta and called him “diablo” and also cursed Marcoleta’s religion.
“Whatever cursing they want to hurl at me, I don’t know them…but the way he cursed me, as you all have heard what he has been stating, but people I think will not believe him because I am not that,” Marcoleta said.
Pimentel ordered tri-comm secretariat to issue summons to Labrador.
Bureau of Internal Revenue has created task force to audit social media influencers for tax registration compliance and tax payments, BIR lawyer said during hearing.
In its last hearing, tri-comm panel directed BIR to submit list of social media content creators taxed by the agency and their respective tax payments.
BIR lawyer Ron Mikhail Uy said BIR “has already created specialized body… task force dedicated to investigating social media influencers and consequently, for issuing letters of authority for further tax audit.”
He said hearing panel has actually given his agency list of 27 social media personalities, explaining difficulty in running after these taxpayers.
Country is being divided by online fake news, PCO chief Jay Ruiz said during House tri-comm’s third hearing.
“Nation is being divided by online disinformation, misinformation and fake news, what is happening to us right now is we are being polarized, being divided online… Filipinos are being pitted against Filipinos” Ruiz told lawmakers.
Ruiz said division happening in the country is similar to discord world is seeing in US. Neutralizing malicious online content, according to Ruiz, “is big fight” nation should be waging.
“Lies, repeated thousand times, becomes truth…we have to fight lies with truth… voice of truth should be louder than lies,” Ruiz said as he warned of dangers of division among population caused by online disinformation and misinformation.
Ruiz also called attention to danger posed by deepfakes, as well as regulation not only of online media practitioners but of social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook and YouTube. However, he said problem is that these platforms are not based in the Philippines.
At Senate, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian described as “timely and most relevant,” partnership forged between government agencies PCO and Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) to fight growing threats of disinformation and online scams.
PCO-CICC partnership is part of administration’s broader campaign to establish safer, more truthful information ecosystem in the country.
PCO formulates and implements an integrated program of information and developmental communication on work of presidency, while CICC is responsible for all functions related to cybersecurity.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
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 18.2k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Asociacion Feminista Filipina marker restored, Ph first women’s org
By J.Lo
“Its members advocated for better health and welfare services, access to education, and greater participation of women in civic life,” volunteers from Manileños For Heritage, network of heritage advocates in Manila, restored historical marker of Asociación Feminista Filipina, the Philippines’ first women’s organization.
Historical marker is installed at the home of Paz Natividad viuda de Zalueta on Salcedo Street (now Avenida Rizal) corner Recto, pioneering women’s organization was founded.
Asociación Feminista Filipina championed women’s rights, education, and social reforms, played key role in shaping early feminist movement in the Philippines. Restoration of its historical marker making it timely as it coincided with National Women’s Month.
Manileños For Heritage said members revived historical marker to ensure Asociación Feminista Filipina’s “legacy remains visible and dignified after years of neglect.”
“A simple act like restoring historical marker sends strong message: it reinforces significance of our shared history and encourages community to take action in preserving our cultural heritage,” heritage advocates’ group said.
Volunteers assured public restoration process followed approved guidelines of National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
They also thanked management of the building where marker stands for allowing restoration.
“Their support has been instrumental in ensuring that this piece of history continues to be recognized and remembered,” Manileños For Heritage said.
ISKUP! 