supports Ease of Doing Business Month May , themed “Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in Bagong Pilipinas.”
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 19.1k 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
Amid complaints of machine glitches 2025 midterm polls ends success
By Nidz Godino
“Tapos na ang botohan, local o overseas, ngayong May 12, 2025 National and Local Elections,” Commission on Elections (Comelec) said in statement marred by concerns over machine malfunctions and overvoting, 2025 midterm elections have officially closed.
Voting is done, local or overseas, this May 12, 2025 National and Local Elections.
However, voting is still ongoing for precincts with lines that span 30 meters from polling precinct as of 7:00 in the evening. This is in line with Section 25 of Comelec Resolution 11076.
Automatic counting machine (ACM) will start printing election returns (ER) once electoral board closes voting procedures.
As of 7:31 in the evening, Comelec said it has received 10,030 ERs. They are expecting total of 93,387.
In press conference, Comelec Chair George Garcia called elections success so far, despite delays and issues encountered in several areas.
Some voters took to social media to complain about overvoting, including senatorial aspirant Teddy Casiño. Some people reportedly said shading on their ballots bled through to the other side.
However, Comelec earlier said this is impossible, as front and back pages of ballot do not face each other.
Aside from reports of overvoting, several machines were also reportedly malfunctioning due to excessive heat.
Comelec said 311 machines had to be replaced overall, but they still considered this a success, as replacement rate was much lower compared to 2022 national elections.
supports Ease of Doing Business Month May , themed “Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in Bagong Pilipinas.”
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 19.1k 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
22 films competing including Japan, China entries at Cannes 2025
By Cynthia Montojo
This year’s Cannes film festival, kicks off on French Riviera on May 13 has total of 22 films competing.
Here is list of titles vying for Palme d’Or, will be awarded by this year’s jury president Juliette Binoche and her seven fellow judges, including Oscar-winner Halle Berry and “Succession” star Jeremy Strong.
‘A Simple Accident’ by Jafar Panahi (Iran)
Repeatedly detained Iranian director, who has been banned from making films, asked organizers “not to say anything about his movie,” his latest act of defiance. Premieres May 20 at 1400 GMT.
‘The Phoenician Scheme’ by Wes Anderson (United States)
Typical madcap comedy-drama by the American director about a maverick businessman with an A-list cast, including Benicio Del Toro, Scarlett Johansson, and Mia Threapleton, Kate Winslet’s daughter. Premieres May 18 at 1700 GMT.
‘Young Mothers’ by Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne (Belgium)
Belgian brothers, already won Palme d’Or for best film twice, tell story of five young mothers staying in maternity home in their native Belgium. Premieres May 23 at 1400 GMT.
‘Alpha’ by Julia Ducournau (France)
Four years after winning Palme d’Or with “Titane,” French director presents new film starring Iranian-French Golshifteh Farahani and Tahar Rahim about young girl confronted with AIDS epidemic in 1980s. Premieres May 19 at 2030 GMT.
‘Sentimental Value’ by Joachim Trier (Norway)
Comedy drama featuring filmmaker trying to reconnect with his daughters from director whose last feature, “The Worst Person in the World,” also premiered in competition at Cannes in 2021. Premieres May 21 at 2030 GMT.
‘Romeria’ by Carla Simon (Spain)
Spanish director returns to her traumatic childhood with family journey of young Catalan girl in Galicia who has lost her parents to AIDS. Premieres May 21 at 1700 GMT.
‘Sound of Falling’ by Mascha Schilinski (Germany)
Drama that brings together four women from four different generations living on the same farm. Premieres May 14 at 2030 GMT.
‘Eagles of the Republic’ by Tarik Saleh (Sweden/Egypt)
On brink of losing everything, Egypt’s most adored actor accepts role he can’t refuse under pressure from country’s authorities. Premieres May 19 at 1345 GMT.
‘The Mastermind’ by Kelly Reichardt (United States)
Story of art heist set against backdrop of Vietnam War and nascent women’s liberation movement. Premieres May 23 at 1645 GMT.
‘Dossier 137’ by Dominik Moll (France)
Investigator at France’s IGPN agency, probes police abuses, is charged with looking into incident police officer injures young man during protest. Premieres May 15 at 1630 GMT.
‘The Secret Agent’ by Kleber Mendonca Filho (Brazil)
Political thriller set in the late 1970s, during final years of Brazil’s military dictatorship. Premieres May 18 at 1300 GMT.
‘Fuori’ by Mario Martone (Italy)
Biopic about the Italian actor and writer Goliarda Sapienza by Naples-born veteran director who has been European arthouse favorite for more than 30 years. Premieres May 20 at 2000 GMT.
‘Two Prosecutors’ by Sergei Loznitsa (Ukraine)
Maker of 2018 “Donbass” documentary about war in eastern Ukraine returns with feature film about idealistic young prosecutor working in 1930s USSR (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics) during Stalin’s purges. Premieres May 14 at 2030 GMT.
‘Nouvelle Vague’ by Richard Linklater (US)
Drama set in 1960 Paris about making of Jean-Luc Godard’s cinema classic “Breathless.” Premieres May 17 at 1300 GMT.
‘Sirat’ by Oliver Laxe (Spain)
“Road movie of misfits, of people outside society,” according to Cannes Festival director Thierry Fremaux. Premieres May 15 at 1930 GMT.
‘The Last One’ by Hafsia Herzi (France)
French actor and director adapts Fatima Daas’s eponymous novel, telling story of youngest member of Algerian immigrant family gradually frees herself from her relatives and traditions. Premieres May 16 at 1300 GMT.
‘The History of Sound’ by Oliver Hermanus (South Africa)
Gay romance about two young men who set out to record the lives, voices and music of their American compatriots, set at the time of World War I. Premieres May 21 at 1300 GMT.
‘Renoir’ by Chie Hayakawa (Japan)
Coming-of-age drama about resilience, healing power of imagination and traumatized family struggling to reconnect. Premieres May 17 at 1300 GMT.
‘Eddington’ by Ari Aster (US)
Aster, the new master of American horror whose previous credits include “Hereditary” and “Midsommar,” has cast Joaquin Phoenix in this story about small-town mayor in New Mexico during COVID-19 pandemic. Premieres May 16 at 1645 GMT.
‘Die My Love’ by Lynne Ramsay (Britain)
The director of “We Need To Talk About Kevin” will premiere this thriller about young mother suffering from depression, starring Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson. Premieres May 17 at 1600 GMT.
‘Mother and Child’ by Saeed Roustaee (Iran)
Roustaee’s last feature in Cannes three years ago, “Leila’s Brothers,” landed him with prison sentence but his new film has been hailed in state-controlled Iranian media. Premieres May 22 at 1330 GMT.
‘Resurrection’ by Bi Gan (China)
Director of 2018’s “Long Day’s Journey Into Night,” presented in Cannes, returns with sci-fi detective movie set in post-apocalyptic world.
supports Ease of Doing Business Month May , themed “Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in Bagong Pilipinas.”
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 19.1k 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
“We are once again reminding PNP, as our deputized agent, to stop act of vote buying… they can arrest people even without warrant because that is outright crime being committed right in front of us,” Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said amid surge in vote buying incidents, Comelec has reminded Philippine National Police (PNP) that those engaging in such illegal activities can be arrested even without warrant. Poll body has directed PNP to strictly comply with Comelec resolution upholding legality of warrantless arrests in connection with midterm polls.
Under Comelec resolution, any law enforcement officer may, without warrant, arrest person when, in the presence of such officer, person to be arrested has committed, is actually committing, or is attempting to commit election offense such as vote buying.
Comelec reiterated that non-compliance with directive is valid ground for criminal and administrative liability.
Garcia said vote buying was rampant because no arrests are being made, with PNP Legal Service even coming out with issuance that prohibits warrantless arrests.
Garcia, however, stressed that 1987 Constitution, Supreme Court ruling as well as Comelec rules allow warrantless arrests, particularly those caught in the act of committing crime.
“We are please asking PNP, show people that we will not allow vote buying, and we will definitely protect you when you do your job right,” he said.
Garcia said poll body has so far received 500 reports of vote-buying incidents nationwide.
He said out of 500, Comelec has issued over 200 show-cause orders against candidates allegedly involved in those vote-buying incidents.
Garcia said politicians appeared to have resorted to traditional forms of vote buying such as distributing cash and gift certificates.
In Catanduanes, he said, local Comelec office encountered problems because police authorities could not stop vote-buying activities.
However, Garcia gave assurance that Comelec is closely monitoring those reports and is now closely coordinating with PNP top officials.
“We may not resolve or make decision on vote buyers today, but candidates must remember, even if they win, we will go after them,” Garcia said, and added poll body is coming out with resolution suspending proclamation of candidates with strong evidence of vote buying against them.
Even if those candidates will not be immediately disqualified, he said, Comelec can pursue legal offense case against them.
Garcia further warned that even those who sell their votes can face same penalties.
Meanwhile, Legal Network for Truthful Elections (LENTE) ,non-partisan, nationwide network of lawyers, law students, paralegals and grassroots volunteers engaged to do election work recorded almost 100 vote-buying incidents right before midterms.
LENTE executive director Rona Ann Caritos said vote-buying incidents escalated on the evening of May 9 at various barangay halls, voter’s residences and last minute assemblies.
Caritos urged public to stay vigilant since it is during the last few days leading to elections when candidates make last-ditch effort to secure votes.
She admitted that vote buying remains big problem in the country, more rampant with local than national candidates.
LENTE said 70 percent of reports they received were about vote buying, while remaining 30 percent were allegedly about concerns on abuse of state resources, such as candidates joining distribution of social welfare program payouts during campaign period.
In connection with today’s midterm polls, Bureau of Immigration (BI) warned foreigners that they might be deported if they would be caught taking part in political gatherings such as campaigns and rallies.
In statement, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said foreign nationals should observe limitations of their stay and discouraged them from joining political campaigns and rallies.
“Foreign nationals are prohibited from joining rallies, campaigns, or any political gatherings… these actions may be grounds for deportation,” Viado said, adding visa cancellation and travel blacklist as other possible consequences.
He said “such participation is violation of Philippine immigration policies bar foreign involvement in political activities,” and encouraged public to report violations or suspicious activities involving foreign nationals through BI’s official Facebook page at Facebook.com/officialbureauofimmigration.
In the meantime, Garcia invited delegates of European Union Election Observation Mission (EU-EOM) to witness Comelec National Board of Canvassers (NBOC) set to convene today at 3 in the afternoon in Tent City of Manila Hotel.
“Observers and all other interested parties are welcome to enter voting precincts during close voting stage, to observe printing of election returns, transmission of election results and ballot review process,” Garcia said in letter to EU-EOM chief observer Marta Temido.
Poll chief gave assurances that election observers can continue with their election activities, although they are restricted from entering polling places during voting process.
Garcia said election observers can visit public schools and any of 42 designated malls that serve as voting centers and witness voting procedures, as long as members of electoral board can perform their work efficiently and voters can cast their ballots in secrecy.
He said canvassing venues for cities, municipalities and provinces are also open to election observers when board of canvassers will be convening for preliminaries to canvassing process.
Comelec, Garcia said, is posting on its website unofficial results of election in real time. Aside from website, public can also check election results at operations center poll body put up at the main office in Intramuros, Manila.
Expecting long queue in all polling precincts nationwide, Comelec advised voters to go to polling centers and cast their ballots early, with reminder to have prepared list of candidates they will vote for.
Garcia said they are also hoping for slightly higher voter turnout compared to past midterm elections, and there is no reason for registered voters not to participate in today’s polls since May 12 has been declared holiday.
He also announced that Filipinos abroad can still enroll until noon today (Philippine Standard Time) in overseas voting system, and cast their votes online.
Garcia said regular voting hours are from 7 in the morning to 5 in the afternoon., but senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and heavily pregnant women can already cast their vote as early as 5 in the morning .
He said Comelec has set up satellite priority polling places exclusively for senior citizens, PWDs, and heavily pregnant women, who may opt to vote in regular polling precincts if they want.
Threat Monitoring Center has been formed by Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), in partnership with Comelec.
“ Threat Monitoring Center is operational, fully equipped to detect and combat spread of false information,” DICT Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center officer-in-charge Renato Paraiso said.
Executives of state agencies and digital platforms Meta, TikTok and Google were present at the joint briefing.
Teachers’ group disputed Department of Budget and Management (DBM)’s recent announcement of across-the-board increase in poll duty honoraria, saying figures touted by agency were not new and had long been set by Comelec.
Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) said there was “no such thing as increase” with recent announcement of P2,000 additional compensation.
DBM and Department of Education announced last Friday that poll duty compensation will increase across the board ,Electoral Board (EB) chairpersons will receive P12,000 from P10,000; EB members will get P11,000 from P9,000; and support staff will receive P8,000 from P6,000.
“It’s not true there was increase in honoraria because pay of EB chair remains at P12,000; P11,000 for EB members; and P8,000 for support staff…but that’s what’s really on Comelec’s general instructions, that’s what’s being said during our training…we’ve known that for long time,” said TDC spokesman Jim Beleno, will also serve as EB chairperson in precinct at Roxas High School in Manila.
Beleno explained amounts were already conveyed to teachers during Comelec training and are clearly stipulated in Comelec Resolution 11076, or General Instructions for Electoral Board, promulgated on Oct. 30, 2024.
He added, even before training sessions in March, Garcia had already committed in February 2024 meeting to increasing poll workers’ compensation.
This commitment came after TDC asked whether Comelec would continue supporting tax exemption for election duty pay following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s veto of proposed bill.
Beleno then challenged DBM and Marcos administration to go beyond announced increases and push for revival and passage of vetoed tax-exemption bill.
“We urge the President and Congress to take favorable action to exempt our honoraria from taxes… more meaningful relief we’ve long been asking for,” he stressed.
Bayan president Renato Reyes Jr. called on Comelec to take legal action against people and groups spreading disinformation targeting Makabayan bloc party-list groups.
Reyes decried “last-minute smear and disinformation campaign” falsely claiming that certain Makabayan-affiliated party-lists, including Bayan Muna, had been disqualified by Comelec or tagged as “terrorists” by Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC).
He said disinformation materials circulating online use fake Comelec and ATC documents and are designed to look official by incorporating government logos and manipulated graphics resembling those of mainstream news organizations.
Caloocan’s Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David advised Catholic fanatics to pray for guidance in selecting candidates they would vote for.
According to CBCPNews, David, also president of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, said voters should consider future of the country and next generation when they cast their vote.
day to Midterm election ,campaign period ended, gun ban still n effect
supports Ease of Doing Business Month May, themed “Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in Bagong Pilipinas.”
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 19.1k 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
Caught P440 M at Cebu airport, part of Que ransom money
By J.Lo
“Aside from money laundering, these foreign nationals might be conduit to be used to interfere or at least influence election,” Philippine National Police spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said nine foreigners and two Filipinos were arrested after they were caught carrying trolley bags contained over P440 million in cash at Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Lapu-Lapu City..
Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission executive director Gilbert Cruz said suspects were intercepted at the security screening area of airport’s general aviation terminal at around 10:30 in the evening.
With seizure of cash and arrest of suspects happening days before Monday’s elections, authorities are checking possibility that funds were intended for poll-related “interference.”
Six of the foreigners are Chinese nationals, one Malaysian, one Indonesian and citizen from Kazakhstan. They were accompanied by two Filipinos who were also apprehended by airport security personnel.
Fajardo said one of the Chinese men, Wu Song, has red notice alert for fraud from International Criminal Police Organization or Interpol.
She said two other suspects, Li Fei and Chen Hao, have warrants of arrest for various crimes.
Fajardo said foreigners arrived in Cebu on Friday at around 9 in the morning on board van and went straight to casino where White Horse Club, one of the junket operators linked to kidnap-slay of Filipino-Chinese businessman Anson Que, used to operate.
Suspects went back to airport and were supposed to board private plane at around 11:30 in the evening when they were arrested.
Police earlier said P200-million ransom paid by Que’s family ended up in 10 different e-wallet accounts and was converted to cryptocurrency after passing through White Horse Club and 9Dynasty Group, another junket operator.
Airport security personnel detained suspects after they saw large sums of cash inside trolley bags they were carrying, subjected to x-ray screening.
Based on initial inventory, Fajardo said trolley bags contained P441,922,542 as well as $168,730 and 1,000 Hong Kong dollars.
Fajardo said suspects violated Commission on Elections Resolution No. 11104 regulates transportation of large sums of money during election period.
Under the measure, possession, transportation or carrying of cash exceeding P500,000 in public places is prohibited two days before and on election day except for authorized persons.
Fajardo said casino sent certification from White Horse Club hours after suspects were captured, stating the amounts were winnings.
This further raised suspicions from personnel of Aviation Security Group led by its director, Brig. Gen. Christopher Abecia.
Fajardo said they are investigating if portions of money seized were part of ransom paid by Que’s family.
Apart from its possible connection to Que’s murder, money seized may have been intended to finance election-related unlawful activities, Fajardo said, citing report from Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.
Fajardo said passing of large sums of cash through junket operators supposed to be no longer operating, is cause of national concern. “This is grave threat to national security.”
Fajardo said bulk of P200-million ransom money paid by the family of Que had been cashed out from financial firm based in Cambodia.
She said around $1.36 million or P75.77 million was cashed out from Huione Pay.
“What’s significant here is this Huione was investigated by US government before for alleged money laundering,” Fajardo said at a news briefing in Camp Crame.
She said they traced money through cryptocurrency account entered Huione Pay.
Que and his driver Armanie Pabillo were found dead in Rodriguez, Rizal even after Que’s family had paid ransom.
They were kidnapped in March and held captive in house in Meycauyan City in Bulacan where they were killed.
Chinese national identified as David Tan Liao and his Filipino cohorts, Richardo Austria and Reymart Catequista, are under police custody. Two other suspects, Gong Wenli and Jonin Lin, are still at large.
Fajardo said Anti-Cybercrime Group tracked down $205,942 or about P11.43 million, believed to be part of ransom money, now frozen after PNP’s Anti-Cybercrime Group communicated with cryptocurrency accounts outside the country.
day to Midterm election, campaign period ended, gun ban still n effect
supports Ease of Doing Business Month May, themed “Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in Bagong Pilipinas.”
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 19.1k 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
“There are those who believe that policy is not right…we have to talk to them. ..you explain your side…who knows…maybe they are right, you are wrong…you will learn something,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said. as campaign period was winding up, final pitch for senatorial bets of Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas, even as he cited need to listen to critics who, he said, may offer better alternatives to existing policies.
In video posted on Facebook, Marcos was asked how he would face members of the administration-backed coalition and families who prevent reforms and who violate law.
The President said there are two kinds of people who hinder reforms, namely those who think that policy is wrong and those who oppose measures because of politics.
“I really like listening to my critics…maybe one of them, even if it is hard to listen to them sometimes, is right…you have to listen… if they do not believe in policies of government, let us talk to them….maybe they have better policy that we can implement,” Marcos added.
With regard to those whose criticisms are motivated by politics, the President no longer expects them to change their stance.
“They clash with you in everything you do because of politics. ..they are just against you…everything you do is wrong…you cannot do anything about that…try to explain, but I don’t expect much that they would change,” he said.
Marcos said those who violate the law should be held accountable.
“We will make sure that there is justice in society… it is very important because without it, we cannot accomplish things we want to do,” he said.
Marcos’ vlog entry was intended to seek support for his allies who are running for senator under Alyansa. Included in nearly 14-minute video was Alyansa senatorial candidate and former interior and local government secretary Benhur Abalos, who answered questions on various topics like inflation, road safety and governance.
The President expressed confidence that Alyansa candidates are capable of helping the administration achieve its goals.
“ Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas are here to give life to dreams of every Filipino…they are here to ensure that we will head towards new Philippines together. On May 12, Alyansa all the way!” he said.
According to Marcos, the love for fellow Filipinos is the “super power” of the Alyansa bets.
“Alyansa candidates did this not for politics… endeavor they chose to pursue is not easy…all of them sacrificed for people… that is the super power of Alyansa,” he said.
Campaign period for this year’s midterm polls ended yesterday.
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 19.1k 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
Deportation of Pinoys to Libya blocked
By Nidz Godino
“Allegedly imminent removals, as reported by news agencies,would clearly violate this Court’s Order.” District Judge Brian Murphy temporarily blocked Trump administration from expelling Asian migrants including Filipinos to war-torn Libya after emergency appeal from would-be deportees’ lawyers.
Murphy said such deportations would violate his previous order that migrants being sent to country other than their own first be given “meaningful” opportunity to challenge their removal in court and show that they may face persecution.
Murphy’s ruling came in response to emergency motion from lawyers for migrants from the Philippines, Laos and Vietnam said they were in “imminent” danger of being deported to Libya “ country notorious for its human rights violations.”
“Department of Homeland Security may not evade this injunction by ceding control over non-citizens or enforcement of its immigration responsibilities to any other agency, including but not limited to Department of Defense,” Murphy added..US President Donald Trump wasn’t aware of it.
Trump campaigned for White House on pledge to deport millions of undocumented migrants and invoked obscure wartime law in March to summarily deport alleged Venezuelan gang members to El Salvador. Federal judges have since blocked further deportations under 1798 Alien Enemies Act, last used to round up Japanese-American citizens during World War II. Libya’s Tripoli-based Government of National Unity (GNU) denied meanwhile that it had reached deal with Washington to take in migrants expelled from United States. “Parallel entities, not subject to legitimacy, could be involved in agreements that do not represent Libyan state and do not commit it legally or politically,” it said in statement. Libya is split between UN-recognized GNU in the west and rival administration backed by military strongman Khalifa Haftar that rules from Benghazi and Tobruk in the east. Eastern government’s foreign ministry also issued statement “denying existence of any agreement or understanding concerning settlement of migrants of any nationality.” Libya has been gripped by unrest since 2011 overthrow and killing of longtime ruler Muammar Gadhafi.
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 19.1k 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
Sara asked DOJ to junk inciting to sedition, grave threats raps
By Nidz Godino
“Being accused of criminal offense, I am constitutionally presumed innocent even in these proceedings, and need not dignify complaint with reply, when no evidence has been shown to support it,” Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio in her counter-affidavit has asked Department of Justice (DOJ) to junk inciting to sedition and grave threats complaints filed against her by National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), in connection with her alleged assassination threat against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.and some of his family members.
Duterte personally attended preliminary investigation on complaints at DOJ to file her counter-affidavit, asked panel of prosecutors to dismiss complaints against her.
In a portion of her counter-affidavit, Duterte denied charges against her, calling allegations “false” and “baseless” and arguing that there was no supporting evidence.
“Nevertheless, I welcome this opportunity to set the facts straight and to correct complainants’ false allegations, clear my name of their baseless charges and spare our government and our people corresponding waste of limited time, effort and resources being caused thereby,” it added.
Her legal counsel Paul Lim said her attendance at the preliminary investigation just shows she made good on her word that she will answer allegations in the proper venue.
“The Vice President wants to show that she was true to her word that she will face allegations against her, and this was her opportunity…she attended and submitted her counter-affidavit contained her reasons why complaint should no longer progress and be dismissed,” Lim told reporters.
Michael Poa, also part of her legal team, refused to give details on the Vice President’s defense, saying they don’t want to preempt proceedings “out of respect to the prosecutors so that they will appreciate it without influence.”
According to her legal team, NBI was given chance to file reply to their counter-affidavit. Another hearing is set on May 16, but the Vice President no longer needs to show up then.
“She does not need to attend next hearing…what’s important is that she attended preliminary investigation to submit her counter-affidavit,” Poa said.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, assured the Vice President that she will be accorded due process in the proceedings.
“Due process. ..no problem with due process…we’ll respect the office…that’s the most important,” he said when asked what Duterte can expect during preliminary investigation.
Duterte’s legal team said this was the least they could expect. “We expect due process, that’s the minimum. ..we expect due process, not just for the VP,” Poa said.
Duterte refused to comment, saying she was barred by her lawyers from doing so.
“My lawyers said I should not speak… I would speak up if my lawyers weren’t here but I can’t because they’re here,” she told reporters.
The NBI filed complaints last February after months of investigating her over her threat to have the President, First Lady Liza Marcos and Speaker Martin Romualdez assassinated.
She made threat live on video in late November 2024, when she said she had contracted hitman who was instructed to kill the President, First Lady and Speaker if she was killed.
She even stressed her threat was no joke, but she would later claim she was taken out of context.
Originally, she was investigated for grave threats and for violating Anti-Terrorism Act.
This is the first time she had attended proceedings against her as she had snubbed all of NBI’s invitations to attend their investigation, casting doubt on the agency’s investigations.
She also said her attendance at the NBI proceedings would not have mattered anyway as Marcos administration had already allegedly predetermined filing of complaints.
Under Philippines’ Revised Penal Code, those who will be found guilty of inciting to sedition may be imposed with “ penalty of prision correccional in its maximum period” and fine of up to P400,000.
Penalty for those found guilty of grave threats will depend on threat issued, and whether or not offender attained purpose of such threat.
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 19.1k 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
Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, visited Philippines
By Nidz Godino
Pope Leo XIV, then known as Robert Prevost, visited Cebu in 2004 as Prior General of Augustinians.
Archdiocese of Cebu said Pope also blessed Augustinian Friary in Mohon, Talisay City.
He also visited Intramuros in 2010, where he celebrated Mass at San Agustín Church during Order of Saint Augustine’s Intermediate General Chapter.
Prevost is 267th head of Roman Catholic Church and will lead world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
He is the first pope from Order of Saint Augustine commonly known as Augustinians and second pope from America, following Pope Francis, who died on April 21, 2025.
Pope Francis elevated him to cardinal in 2023.
Pope Leo XIV was elected on second day of conclave, with decision reached on fourth ballot. White smoke rose from Sistine Chapel chimney at 12:08 in the morning. (Manila time).
Three Filipino cardinals—Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Cardinal Jose Advincula and Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David—are among cardinal-electors in this year’s conclave.
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 19.1k 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
“If Congress intended violation of Safe Spaces Act ground to disqualify candidate, it could have included such provision in the said law, but it did not,” Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said Pasig congressional candidate Christian Sia has been disqualified from May 12 midterm polls due to his sexist remarks about single mothers and body shaming of his former female assistant.
Sia’s remarks constitute acts of gender-based harassment and violate Campaigning Act.
Garcia said ruling is historic since it is first time poll body applied anti-discrimination resolution.
At campaign sortie last month, Sia said single mothers, especially those who are still menstruating, could sleep with him once a year if he gets elected.
Sia is insisting that Comelec’s ruling is “wrong” since he did not get court conviction over his sexist joke.
The Pasig bet, a lawyer, has vowed to take the case to Supreme Court if his motion for reconsideration is rejected.
Sia is running under slate of construction magnate Sarah Discaya, competing against Mayor Vico Sotto.
Meanwhile, Las Piñas Rep. Camille Villar has been cleared of vote buying allegations by Comelec.
Comelec has found insufficient evidence to support disqualification petition against Villar in May midterm polls.
Villar “satisfactorily explained” circumstances surrounding alleged vote buying incident at campaign sortie in Cavite on Feb. 9 before start of campaign period, the poll body’s Kontra Bigay committee said.
Villar welcomed Comelec’s resolution.
“I assure everyone that I am running on clean platform, pursuing only my advocacies that aim to make lives better for Filipinos,” she said.
Villar has reportedly spent more than P1 billion in advertisements for her campaign in midterm polls.
If she wins, Villar will join her brother Mark in Senate.
Their mother, Sen. Cynthia Villar, is seeking to replace Camille as representative of Las Piñas in House of Representatives.
About 10 more show-cause orders will be issued to bets facing vote buying claims, Comelec Commissioner Ernest Maceda said.
As of yesterday, around 450 reports of vote buying and abuse of state resources were received by Kontra Bigay committee.
Some 106 bets were given show cause orders, Maceda noted.
Most vote buying complaints came from Calabarzon, followed by Central Luzon and Metro Manila. Laguna, Marikina and Rizal were top three areas.
In another development, Comelec First Division disqualified for misrepresentation Christian Noveras, who is seeking Aurora governorship.
“It is undisputed that respondent has been found guilty by ombudsman of grave misconduct, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service and conduct unbecoming of public officials and was punished with dismissal from service with all accessory penalties, including perpetual disqualification from holding public office,” Comelec said.
Comelec also upheld disqualification of Noveras’ father and sister. Gerardo is running for vice governor, while Christine is his substitute.
“Having established Gerardo is ineligible to run, he had no right to pass on to Christine, his purported substitute… incongruous for person to take the place of candidate who does not exist or who was never eligible to run,” Comelec stressed.
Pilipinas Babangon Muli Party party-list group’s disqualification was affirmed by poll body, as it violated requirement in which regional party must have constituency. .. group fielded nominees not from Calabarzon , region it claimed to represent.
Tuguegarao Mayor Maila Ting-Que is facing disqualification complaint for alleged abuse of state resources.
Pangasinan Rep. Marlyn Primicias-Agabas has lauded Comelec for assuring public that vote buying complaints will be acted upon without delay.
In letters to Comelec and Philippine National Police, Agabas cited reports of vote buying operations allegedly involving allies of Gilbert Estrella, her rival candidate in the midterm polls.
Makati Mayor Abby Binay has confirmed she and Taguig Rep. Pammy Zamora are facing disqualification case for alleged conspiracy to bribe voters.
Binay said her remarks at April 10 sortie, where she said she would be showing voters “heaps of money,” were “taken out of context.”
“I said congresswoman has a lot of funds there…does that mean I’m engaging in vote buying …those funds would be placed into Ospital ng Makati and would not be given to attendees,” Binay said.
4 days to Midterm election ,campaign period, gun ban in effect
supports Ease of Doing Business Month May, themed “Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in Bagong Pilipinas.”
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
Overtime pay, tax exemption for poll watchers
By Nidz Godino
“Teachers who will serve as poll workers on election day will be required to work for over 24 hours straight, yet Comelec refuses to acknowledge this as overtime work deserving of additional compensation,” ACT-NCR Union President Ruby Bernardo said. teachers’ union in Metro Manila urged Commission on Elections (Comelec) to grant overtime pay to teachers serving as Electoral Board members and poll watchers.
In a statement , Alliance of Concerned Teachers – National Capital Region (ACT-NCR) said Comelec “refuses to acknowledge” that teacher-poll watchers are entitled to overtime compensation for extended work hours on election day.
She stressed that teachers will have to wake up early and report for duty with little sleep to assist marginalized sectors such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities and pregnant women during early voting hours.
Early voting runs from 5 to 7 in the morning ahead of regular voting schedule from 7 in the morning to 7 in the evening. If Electoral Board members are required to cover both, their workday could stretch to 14 hours or more.
As members, they oversee polling precincts to safeguard integrity of vote, often facing threats and intimidation, especially in areas with intense political rivalry or security concerns.
“Hindi makatarungang hindi sila bayaran para sa karagdagang oras ng pagtatrabaho,” Bernardo said. She added that teachers already put their lives on line during elections, which can turn violent in some areas, yet they are still taxed for working on election day.
Here’s how much each board member will be paid, according to Comelec Resolution 11076:
Chairperson – P12,000
Members – 11,000
Support staff – 8,000
Department of Education supervising official – P11,000
Technical support staff – P9,000
Administrative support staff – P8,000
Bernardo likened the experience to “already having one foot in the grave,” saying it’s no small matter for teachers to work for 24 hours without sleep.
“Nakagagalit maliit na nga ang honorarium, binabawasan pa ng buwis…wala namang overtime pay, dagdag oras pa sa serbisyo!” she said.
ACT-NCR Union also said that many teachers fall ill after each election due to extreme fatigue and stress.
“Current honoraria are already insufficient given immense responsibility and risks teachers face during elections…deducting taxes from these meager amounts is adding insult to injury,” Bernardo added.
Teachers’ group also pointed out that respecting their rights and providing adequate compensation is bare minimum, as they serve as “backbone” of the country’s electoral process.
“Respecting their rights and providing just compensation is not just about teacher welfare , it’s about valuing our democratic processes,” Bernardo said.
Election day is scheduled on May 12, estimated 68 million Filipinos are expected to cast their votes for 12 senators, party-list representatives and local leaders.
ISKUP! 