President Marcos Jr. Backs Constitutional Convention Calls
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed his openness to the calls for a constitutional convention. Officials reported that the President is willing to support amendments to the 1987 Constitution if these changes help strengthen the charter and close existing loopholes. This stance was confirmed by Malacañang on Tuesday, emphasizing the importance of improving the foundational law.
House Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno, in a recent privilege speech, underscored the need to consider Charter change due to “historical experience” and evolving governance challenges. Local leaders noted that the proposal aims to update the Constitution’s language and provisions to better address current realities.
Vice President Sara Duterte Urged to Address Allegations
Malacañang also commented on Vice President Sara Duterte’s response to allegations regarding the misuse of confidential funds. The Presidential Communications Office stated that she should have addressed these claims earlier, rather than waiting until impeachment proceedings began. Officials clarified that Duterte’s indication of replying only in the “proper forum” was insufficient, urging prompt and transparent communication.
DILG Bans All Online Gambling for Officials
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) issued a memorandum circular prohibiting all its personnel and local government officials from participating in any form of online gambling. The directive, outlined in Memorandum Circular 2025-082, covers employees of the agency, its attached units, elected local officials, and local government employees nationwide. Community members praised the move as a step towards promoting integrity and discipline among public servants.
Philippines Condemns Chinese Naval Interference in Bajo de Masinloc
The Philippine government expressed serious concern over the dangerous actions of two vessels from the People’s Liberation Army Navy and the China Coast Guard. These ships reportedly interfered unlawfully with a routine humanitarian operation assisting Filipino fisherfolk near the territorial sea of Bajo de Masinloc. The Department of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Bajo de Masinloc remains an integral and longstanding part of Philippine territory, reinforcing the country’s sovereign rights in the area.
Senate President Clarifies Election Donation, Denies Project Influence
Senate President Francis Escudero confirmed that Centerways Construction donated P30 million to his 2022 election campaign. However, he firmly denied any involvement in securing large government flood-control contracts for the company. This clarification followed President Marcos Jr.’s disclosure that around P100 billion—20 percent of the government’s P545-billion flood mitigation budget from mid-2022 to 2025—was awarded to just 15 contractors, including Centerways Construction. Sources emphasized the importance of transparency in government procurement.
Meralco Announces Power Rate Increase for Consumers
Millions of Manila Electric Company (Meralco) consumers should prepare for higher electricity bills this month. Meralco announced a rate hike of P0.6268 per kilowatt hour (kWh), attributing the increase to rising pass-through generation and transmission charges. Officials advised consumers to manage their power usage wisely amid these adjustments.
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