Tropical Depression Isang Progresses Over Quirino
Tropical Depression Isang slightly slowed down as it continued its path across Quirino province on Friday afternoon. Officials reported that the storm’s pace decreased while maintaining its strength, affecting local communities and prompting close monitoring.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), Isang was last tracked near Aglipay in Quirino at 5 p.m. The tropical depression carried maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching up to 90 kph. It was moving west-northwest at a speed of 15 kph, indicating a steady but cautious advance.
Sandiganbayan Acquits Binay Family in Makati Car Park Case
The Sandiganbayan acquitted former Vice President Jejomar Binay, his son former Makati Mayor Junjun Binay, and 22 other accused individuals in connection with the P2.2-billion Makati car park building case. The anti-graft court ruled that the prosecution failed to establish their guilt beyond reasonable doubt during Friday’s promulgation.
Local legal experts noted the court’s decision marked a significant development in the long-standing case that involved allegations of graft, falsification of public documents, and malversation of public funds.
Administrative Charges Filed Against Ex-CIDG Chief Macapaz
Brigadier General Romeo Macapaz, former director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), faces administrative charges before the National Police Commission (Napolcom). The charges relate to the investigation of abducted cockfighting enthusiasts known as sabungeros.
Community members reported that Elakim Patidongan, brother of whistleblower Julie Patidongan, accused Macapaz of illegally confiscating their mobile phones, SIM cards, and memory cards during their repatriation from Cambodia last week.
Philippine Navy Observes Unusual Chinese Activity Near Ayungin Shoal
The Philippine Navy raised concerns over unusual Chinese maritime activity near Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal. This area hosts a small Philippine detachment aboard the grounded BRP Sierra Madre, a strategic location in the West Philippine Sea.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, reported that on Thursday, at least 25 Chinese vessels and two aircraft were observed around the shoal. The fleet included 11 smaller service boats, five larger ships, and nine maritime militia vessels, along with a helicopter and a drone, indicating heightened surveillance and presence.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of maintaining sovereignty and security in the region.
For more news and updates on Tropical Depression Isang, visit Filipinokami.com.
