Senate Pro Tempore Affirms ₱355-Million Budget Insertion Linked to Flood Control Projects in Bulacan

Metro Manila, Philippines – Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson has verified the presence of a ₱355-million budget insertion within the current General Appropriations Act, reinforcing earlier allegations from former Department of Public Works and Highways engineer Brice Hernandez. Hernandez, who formerly served as assistant district engineer in Bulacan, had revealed during a House inquiry that Senator Jinggoy Estrada was behind a ₱355-million allocation for flood control initiatives in Bulacan province. The engineer further alleged that Estrada received a 30-percent commission amounting to over ₱106 million in kickbacks. Estrada has denied involvement, stating that while the 2025 budget includes the allocation, he neither authorized it nor benefited financially. Speaking at the Kapihan sa Senado forum on September 11, Lacson confirmed the sum was absent from the House-approved General Appropriations Bill, suggesting the insertion occurred either during Senate discussions or the bicameral conference stage. "Meron talagang insertion [There really was an insertion]," Lacson remarked. Now leading the Senate blue ribbon committee following recent leadership changes, Lacson noted the confirmation lends some validity to Hernandez’s testimony but cautioned against accepting all claims at face value. A primary hurdle remains the absence of official records pinpointing the proponent of the insertion. "Because walang record e [there’s no record]," he explained. When asked whether this lack of documentation could allow the responsible party to evade accountability, Lacson admitted the possibility, emphasizing the necessity for enhanced transparency in the legislative budgeting process moving forward. Despite these difficulties, Lacson disclosed that efforts are underway to trace the origin of the budget insertion. The Senate may also consider inviting former Senate finance committee chairperson Grace Poe to provide testimony related to the matter. Additionally, Lacson revealed that his office has secured security footage showing an individual identified as “Mina” from WJ Construction visiting the Senate on August 19. Hernandez previously claimed that “Mina” functioned as a courier for bribes from government infrastructure projects, allegedly delivering money to Estrada’s aide Beng Ramos. However, Ramos was later established to be part of the blue ribbon committee’s secretariat, not directly connected to Estrada’s staff. "Although may idea kami kung saan siya nagpunta rito at kaninong opisina ang dinalaw niya, pero ipapatawag namin para malaman natin kung kanino siya nagpunta, kaninong office, at sinong kinausap niya," Lacson stated. ["Although we have an idea where she went and which office she visited, we will summon her to find out exactly where she went, whose office it was, and whom she spoke with."] Lacson further described the evidence as circumstantial, noting that connecting these details alone is insufficient for a definitive conclusion. The blue ribbon committee is scheduled to conduct its next hearing on the flood control projects on Thursday, September 18. This session marks Lacson’s first as committee chair following his succession of Senator Rodante Marcoleta.

Isabela Rep. Faustino Dy Elected House Speaker, Vows Transparency and Reforms

In a significant development at the start of the 20th Congress, Isabela's 6th district Representative Faustino "Bojie" Dy was elected as House Speaker. Lawmakers from both the majority and minority blocs expressed their support and optimism for his leadership during the plenary session on Wednesday, September 17. In his inaugural address, Speaker Dy pledged to uphold transparency by refusing to protect corrupt individuals implicated in the ongoing flood control projects scandal. He also committed to overhauling the budget process following persistent allegations of irregular "insertions" in previously approved budgets. Manila's 6th district Representative Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr., a member of the majority, expressed full confidence in Dy's agenda. In a statement issued Thursday, September 18, Abante said, \"I welcome the leadership of Speaker Bojie Dy and fully support his call for a House that is more transparent, more accountable, and more responsive to the needs of our people.\" He added that Dy’s clear message to protect the Filipino people rather than internal allies \"is a mission I fully embrace.\" Abante, who chairs the quad-committee in the 20th Congress, highlighted Dy's promise that no individual or office will be exempt from accountability under his leadership. He emphasized that this approach is vital to restoring public trust in the House. Additionally, Abante urged all members of Congress to heed Dy’s call to strengthen legislative oversight and collaborate closely with the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI). From the minority side, Bagong Henerasyon Party-list Representative Robert Nazal, who abstained from voting for Dy, expressed hope that the new Speaker's administration would promptly initiate essential reforms. \"We wish Speaker Dy good luck as he assumes this vital role. Even as I stood in abstention, I am hopeful that under his leadership, reforms can begin right away, starting with transparency in the budget process, especially during the bicameral conference,\" Nazal stated. Former BH Party-list Representative Bernadette Herrera also welcomed Dy’s election as a chance to reset expectations and advance long-awaited reforms. \"We extend our good luck to Speaker Dy and trust that he will seize this moment to bring clarity and fairness to the budget process. Transparency and accountability must be the foundation of his speakership if the House is to truly serve the Filipino people,\" Herrera emphasized. With widespread backing across party lines, Speaker Dy faces the critical task of fulfilling his promises to enhance transparency, combat corruption, and reform the national budget process amid growing public demand for government accountability.

Larry Gadon Declines to Engage with Francis Barzaga Out of Respect for Family Ties

Presidential Adviser Larry Gadon has publicly stated that he will not engage in disputes with Cavite Representative Francis Barzaga, honoring the legacy of Barzaga's late father and the contributions of his mother. Gadon highlighted his friendship with the elder Barzaga, who was also his law professor, and expressed appreciation for the support Barzaga’s family provided during the 2022 Uniteam campaign. "I will not insult Kiko Barzaga, out of respect for his late father, Congressman Pidi Barzaga, who was a friend and my professor in law school, and for his mother, who was one of the first signatories of the impeachment petition I filed against Lourdes Sereno, and for her support in our Uniteam campaign in 2022," Gadon said. He also acknowledged Mayor Jenny Barzaga for hosting the administration's Serbisyo Kalusugan and Trabaho caravan in Dasmariñas. Gadon remarked on Barzaga’s previous collaboration during the Uniteam rally in Dasmariñas in 2022, where Barzaga sat beside him onstage. He added, "We appreciate the efforts of our allies. I only wish Kiko would mature more to avoid becoming a laughingstock in the House of Representatives and prevent ridicule." Barzaga recently resigned from the National Unity Party (NUP) on September 10 and called for an investigation into then-Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez. In response, Gadon publicly questioned the legitimacy of Barzaga’s demand. Further escalating the exchange, Barzaga posted a social media graphic featuring a photo of Gadon with a cat image obscuring his face, paired with the caption: "Imbestigahan (Martin Romualdez) for what?" alongside his own image accompanied by the text: "Is that all? No sharp insults today? Or are you already afraid of me?"

Senate Cites Former DPWH Engineer Henry Alcantara in Contempt Over Ghost Project Allegations

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee has cited former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) District Engineer Henry Alcantara in contempt following his denial of any involvement in ghost project kickbacks linked to Bulacan. Alcantara's subordinate, dismissed Assistant District Engineer Brice Hernandez, testified that they were both implicated in the scheme alongside Bulacan engineers Jaypee Hernandez and Paul Duya. Brice Hernandez claimed that Alcantara received 40 percent of the DPWH's share from these illicit earnings, while he, Jaypee Hernandez, and Duya each received 20 percent. When questioned about the motivation behind executing ghost projects, Hernandez stated it was driven by the desire to secure a larger "tara" or cut destined for those initiating the projects. However, he admitted to not knowing the identities of the project proponents or ever communicating with them directly. Alcantara refuted these allegations, asserting no acquaintance with the project proponents and pointing out that Hernandez frequently implicated him in discussions about irregularities. He added that contractors involved had testified to dealing directly with Hernandez, not with him. The former engineer also stated that his office was unaware of budget increases for flood control projects and denied any connection to ghost projects. Senate Blue Ribbon Committee Chairman Sen. Erwin Tulfo expressed skepticism toward Alcantara's claims, remarking, "Your subordinates are all at fault, but you have none? As District Engineer, you were unaware of ghost projects? You didn’t know your budget ballooned? Did those figures not pass through your desk?" Alcantara maintained that he only implemented projects explicitly listed in the General Appropriations Act and reiterated his lack of knowledge regarding ghost projects. Rejecting his defense, Sen. Tulfo moved to cite Alcantara in contempt for providing false testimony, a motion which the committee approved. As a result, Alcantara is to be detained at the Senate alongside contractor Pacifico "Curlee" Discaya as the investigation continues.

Senate Blue Ribbon Committee Holds Construction Firm Owner in Contempt Over Contradictory Testimony

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee formally cited Pacifico "Curlee" Discaya, owner of a construction firm, in contempt for providing conflicting reasons regarding his wife Cezarah "Sarah" Discaya's absence at a hearing about irregularities in flood control projects. Initially, Curlee claimed his wife was absent because she was suffering from a heart ailment. However, Committee Chair Senator Panfilo Lacson revealed that the excuse letter submitted by Sarah cited a scheduled employee meeting as the reason for her absence. When asked to clarify, Curlee apologized to the committee and explained that his wife suffers from diabetes and hypertension, conditions that require her to take multiple medications regularly. Senator Risa Hontiveros highlighted the discrepancy, noting that diabetes and hypertension differ significantly from the heart condition Curlee first referenced. Following the exchange, Senator Raffy Tulfo proposed that Curlee be cited in contempt for misleading the Senate panel, accusing him of attempting to deceive the legislative body.

Senator Urges Medical Certificate Requirement and FOI Bill Passage for Electoral Transparency

During a recent committee meeting, Senator Erwin Tulfo urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to implement a policy requiring electoral candidates to submit medical certificates verifying their physical and mental fitness to hold public office. Tulfo emphasized that the confidentiality of these medical records would be strictly maintained, with copies provided exclusively to Comelec. "Perhaps we could consider including this provision in the Freedom of Information Bill so Comelec can demand a medical certificate from each candidate. Our intent is not discrimination, but ensuring candidates are mentally and physically capable of serving," Tulfo stated at the Committee on Public Information and Mass Media organizational session, which focused on bills related to the People’s Freedom of Information Act. Comelec Executive Director Teopisto Elnas Jr. responded that current laws do not mandate medical certificates for candidates. He noted that the commission’s requirements mainly cover personal details, with sensitive information redacted before public posting of Certificates of Candidacy (COCs). Elnas also recalled that a prior attempt to require drug test results was invalidated by the Supreme Court. "We are not asking for any medical status from candidates," he added. Tulfo stressed that assessing candidates’ health is crucial to prevent situations where voters elect individuals who may be physically or mentally unfit, potentially rendering votes ineffective should the official become incapacitated or pass away. He highlighted the importance of mental health, stating, "What if a candidate has mental health issues or disabilities that are not evident during the campaign? How can constituents rely on such a candidate once elected?" He further remarked that psychological fitness should be prioritized over physical ailments, noting, "I’m less concerned with physical conditions, such as cancer, but psychological wellness is critical. There is sufficient time for Comelec to evaluate this recommendation before the 2028 elections." In addition to health transparency, Tulfo advocated for the immediate passage of the Freedom of Information Bill. He remarked, "For too long, our citizens have been denied access to transparent governance. The FOI Bill dismantles barriers between the people and the truth, empowering them to scrutinize government spending and hold officials accountable." He concluded by underscoring the bill’s significance amid ongoing revelations of government corruption: "Without the FOI Bill, genuine accountability remains unattainable. It is the strongest tool we can offer the Filipino people to safeguard their trust and democracy."

House Speaker Romualdez to Resign, Backs Deputy Speaker Bojie Dy as Successor

House Deputy Speaker and Antipolo City Representative Ronaldo Puno revealed that Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has expressed his intention to resign and has nominated Deputy Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy III as his successor. In a radio interview on Wednesday, Puno, who also chairs the National Unity Party—the second largest party in the House of Representatives—stated that Romualdez called a meeting on Tuesday afternoon to inform party leaders of his decision. "Yesterday, Speaker Martin Romualdez summoned us and said he plans to resign from his position today," Puno said. "He recommended that we support Deputy Speaker Bojie Dy, who he believes will ensure effective leadership in the House." Puno also disclosed that Romualdez had been contemplating resignation for weeks due to controversies surrounding flood control projects. "This is a voluntary decision on Speaker Martin’s part. He had been discussing his resignation for weeks, especially during meetings with party-list groups, mentioning that the controversies were too overwhelming and that he wished to protect the House’s reputation. We, of course, tried to convince him not to step down," Puno explained. "About a week ago, he suggested the possibility of stepping aside temporarily to face investigations without impacting the House’s integrity. Some party leaders supported this, saying, 'Mr. Speaker, if you think you need to step aside, do so.' However, Speaker Martin wanted to face the accusations head-on, concerned about rumors suggesting he was using his position to evade scrutiny," he added. Regarding alternatives, Puno said party leaders initially proposed Romualdez take a leave of absence. "Yesterday afternoon, he informed us he decided not to take a leave but to resign outright. He feared that taking a leave would create speculation that he might return soon, which he wanted to avoid," Puno narrated. "We all fully support Speaker Martin’s decision, and as requested, we will back Deputy Speaker Bojie Dy as the next Speaker," he affirmed. A meeting was scheduled today to finalize the transition plans ahead of the House session commencing at 3 p.m.

Utah Governor Details Investigation into Charlie Kirk Shooting; Motive Remains Unclear

WASHINGTON — Utah Governor Spencer Cox provided an update Sunday on the ongoing investigation into the fatal shooting of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, revealing that the accused gunman, Tyler Robinson, 22, is not cooperating with authorities. However, law enforcement officials are actively pursuing leads by interviewing Robinson's friends and family in an effort to determine a motive. Robinson is expected to face formal charges on Tuesday and remains held in custody in Utah. The investigation revolves around the events on Wednesday at Utah Valley University, where Robinson allegedly climbed onto a rooftop and shot Kirk in the neck from a distance during an outdoor gathering attended by approximately 3,000 people in Orem. Charlie Kirk, a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump and co-founder of the conservative student organization Turning Point USA, succumbed to a single rifle wound. The incident has intensified concerns over escalating political violence and deepening polarization within the United States. Governor Cox told the ABC program "This Week" that Robinson has not confessed, noting, "He is not cooperating, but all the people around him were cooperating, and I think that’s very important." He highlighted the cooperation of Robinson's roommate, described as a male transitioning to female, who also had a romantic relationship with Robinson. When asked whether the roommate's gender identity is pertinent to the investigation on CNN’s "State of the Union," Cox stated, "That’s what we’re trying to figure out right now... We’re piecing together shell casings, forensic evidence, and other details." Authorities discovered messages etched onto four bullet casings recovered from the scene, containing references to memes and video game culture. One casing bore the message, "hey fascist! CATCH!" followed by a series of directional arrows linked to a video game bombing sequence, while another read, "If you read This, you are GAY Lmao." Kirk's outspoken conservative rhetoric, particularly against LGBT individuals and immigration, had gained him significant support among conservatives but also strong criticism from liberals. Robinson, a third-year electrical apprenticeship student at Dixie Technical College, was apprehended at his parents' home approximately 260 miles southwest of the crime scene after a 33-hour manhunt. Family members informed authorities that Robinson had admitted his involvement. Gov. Cox remarked on "Meet the Press" that despite Robinson’s conservative upbringing, "his ideology was very different than his family’s," though he declined to elaborate. Records show Robinson registered to vote but had no formal political party affiliation. According to court documents, a relative indicated Robinson had recently voiced political opinions critical of Kirk. The killing has prompted widespread condemnation of political violence. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson called for a de-escalation of political rhetoric, emphasizing on "Fox News Sunday," "We’ve got to turn the rhetoric down." Johnson also acknowledged the dangers of extreme political language on both sides, stating, "You can’t call the other side fascists and enemies of the state and not understand that there are some deranged people in our society who will take that as cues to act and do crazy and dangerous things." Gov. Cox attributed some blame to social media platforms, saying they "have played a direct role in every single assassination and assassination attempt that we have seen over the last five, six years." Former President Trump praised Kirk for mobilizing young conservative voters. The Turning Point USA movement, boasting over 800 chapters nationwide, confirmed that Kirk’s widow intends to continue the organization’s mission. A memorial service has been scheduled for September 21 in Glendale, Arizona, according to the organization.

Pope Leo Criticizes CEO Pay Disparities and Questions UN Effectiveness

In an exclusive interview released recently, Pope Leo expressed strong criticism of the escalating wage gap between corporate executives and their employees, specifically referencing Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s unprecedented $1 trillion compensation package. The pontiff highlighted the dramatic increase in CEO pay over the last six decades, noting that "60 years ago, CEOs might have earned four to six times more than their workers, but today, this has ballooned to about 600 times more." "When news emerges that Elon Musk is poised to become the world’s first trillionaire, we must ask what this implies," Pope Leo explained. "If that’s considered the sole measure of value, then society faces a serious problem." Originally from Chicago, Pope Leo also reflected on his extensive missionary work in Peru, his transition into the papacy, and hopes for peaceful resolution in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The interview was conducted in late July for an upcoming biography and marks one of the few media engagements by Pope Leo, who tends to adopt a more reserved approach compared to his predecessor. Addressing the role of the United Nations, the pontiff observed a decline in its ability to facilitate effective multilateral diplomacy. "The UN should ideally serve as a forum for resolving numerous global issues. Unfortunately, it appears to have lost much of its influence to unite nations on key matters at this time," he noted. Regarding his new responsibilities, Pope Leo admitted feeling adequately prepared to guide the spiritual lives of the Catholic faithful but acknowledged the steep learning curve involved in acting as a global diplomatic leader. "Suddenly being thrust onto the world leader stage is a completely new challenge," he said. "I’m learning quickly and though it is demanding, I don’t feel overwhelmed. I had to dive in headfirst and adapt fast." Pope Leo was elected in May as the first U.S. pope, succeeding Pope Francis. His cautious media presence contrasts with his predecessor’s more frequent public engagements, signaling a distinct leadership style.

Legal Dispute Between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Sees No Taylor Swift Deposition

The ongoing legal confrontation involving actors Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni has taken a new turn regarding the participation of singer Taylor Swift. Lively has filed a lawsuit against Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation, asserting that Baldoni and the team behind their film "It Ends With Us" initiated an online campaign to discredit her following her complaints. Baldoni's legal representatives stated that Taylor Swift, a friend of Lively and contributor to the film's soundtrack, consented to give a deposition. This deposition is a sworn, out-of-court testimony to be considered during the trial or discovery phase. They indicated that Swift agreed to testify in the week of October 20 due to "preexisting professional obligations," presumably linked to the upcoming release of her twelfth album, "The Life of a Showgirl." However, Swift's attorney, J. Douglas Baldridge, disputed claims that she had agreed to be deposed. In a letter to Judge Lewis Liman, Baldridge emphasized that from the beginning of the case, Swift has had "no material role in this action." While he acknowledged Swift would comply if compelled to testify, he suggested the week of October 20 as a potential timeframe only if the parties resolve their scheduling conflicts. Lively's legal team challenged requests to extend deadlines to accommodate Swift's possible deposition, questioning the relevance of her testimony and accusing Baldoni's side of deliberate delays. Judge Liman ruled that Baldoni's team had not presented sufficient justification for postponing the September 30 deadline to schedule Swift's deposition. Nevertheless, Liman approved a 10-day extension for depositions involving Baldoni and co-founders of Wayfarer Studios, Steve Sarowitz and Jamey Heath. The trial between Lively and Baldoni is slated to commence on March 9, 2026, in New York. This development emerges amid public attention on Swift’s career milestones, including the anticipation surrounding her new album release and recent engagements in her personal life.