Philippines
Espina family in Biliran faces plunder complaint over DPWH projects
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Lord Allan Merced-Garcia filed a plunder complaint with the Ombudsman on October 30, 2025, against the Espina family of Biliran over alleged theft in Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) projects. Roving Premier, owned by Vice Governor Roselyn Espina-Paras and her husband, secured over P1 billion in contracts since 2020. This ties into the broader flood control corruption scandal exposed by President Marcos Jr. in July 2025.
Filipino Odette survivors sue Shell in UK court
Survivors of Typhoon Odette in the Philippines have filed a lawsuit against oil giant Shell in a UK court, seeking reparations for damages caused by the 2021 storm. This marks the country's first climate-related legal action following an International Court of Justice ruling on reparations. The suit accuses Shell of contributing to climate change through its emissions.
Philippines assumes ASEAN chairmanship amid three key challenges
At the close of the 2025 ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. officially accepted the bloc's chairmanship for 2026 from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. This handover places significant responsibilities on the Philippines, including advancing South China Sea code of conduct negotiations, addressing the Myanmar crisis, and navigating US-China trade tensions. Upon returning home, Marcos reaffirmed the country's firm stance on the West Philippine Sea.
Michelin guide awards stars to philippine restaurants for 2026
In a historic first, the Michelin Guide unveiled its selection of Philippine restaurants for 2026 on October 30, 2025, at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City. It recognized 108 establishments, including one with two stars and eight with one star. This marks a milestone for the country's culinary scene.
Eu education fair set for November 21-22
October 30, 2025 19:57Marcos: Trump and Xi Jinping meeting to color APEC summit
October 30, 2025 18:05How to identify if you've been bullied in school
October 30, 2025 16:25Katrin de Guia, kapwa explorer, dies at 75
October 30, 2025 12:54Tiangco declares P213.9 million net worth
October 29, 2025 21:37Comelec: 27 contractors must explain campaign donations
October 29, 2025 13:39Alas Pilipinas U18 misses bronze in loss to Thailand at Asian Youth Games
October 29, 2025 05:48Duterte appeals ICC jurisdiction ruling
ICI recommends charges against senators in flood control scandal
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The Independent Commission for Infrastructure has recommended criminal and administrative complaints against Senators Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada, former Representative Zaldy Co, and three others over alleged kickbacks in flood control projects. Related probes include a forged affidavit by a Senate witness linked to Co and efforts to forfeit implicated assets. Lawmakers are pushing for a stronger anti-corruption body amid public frustration with the inquiry's pace.
Eight years after siege, Marawi ruins and questions remain
Eight years after the 2017 Marawi siege, the city's skyline still bears scars of twisted steel and hollowed buildings. Thousands of families linger in temporary shelters amid slow reconstruction, while journalists reflect on restricted access and unanswered questions about the conflict's toll.
Dilg orders infrastructure audits for quake resilience
To prepare communities for the threat of strong earthquakes, the Department of the Interior and Local Government has ordered local government units to conduct comprehensive infrastructure audits on public and private buildings in their jurisdictions. The directive emphasizes that assessing structural integrity is crucial to ensuring public safety and minimizing casualties and damage during major earthquakes. This includes government facilities such as hospitals, schools, offices, and emergency response centers, as well as privately owned structures.
La Salle beats UE to claim second place in UAAP
Despite injuries to key players, La Salle Green Archers defeated UE Red Warriors 84-72, tying for second place in UAAP Season 88. This marks La Salle's sixth win, while UE remains winless at 0-9. The game took place at Mall of Asia Arena on October 29.
Fact check debunks recent Mayon Volcano eruption claim
No eruption has been recorded at Mayon Volcano in the past month, according to Phivolcs, yet videos purporting to show recent ash plumes have gone viral. These clips use images from the 2018 eruption and may have been altered with AI tools. The misinformation has sparked concern among Facebook users.