Senator Manny Pacquiao was first among the presidential bets to file his certificate of candidacy (COC) as the political ball gets rolling in the Philippines with the first official step leading to the May 9, 2022 elections. He was joined by former Manila City mayor and now-Buhay party-list Lito Atienza, who will be his running mate.
The senatorial derby also got going with Deputy House Speaker Loren Legarda making a comeback bid, together with Sorsogon Governor Francis Escudero.
Julian Ongpin, son of business tycoon Robert Ongpin, appeared before the Department of Justice (DOJ) to answer a charge for illegal possession of cocaine levelled against him.
These are among the top stories this Friday afternoon, October 1, 2021.

Senator Manny Pacquiao (right) and Buhay party-list Rep. Lito Atienza show their certificates of candidacy (COCs) for president and vice-president, respectively, which they filed with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) at the Hotel Sofitel Harbor Garden Tent in Pasay City on Friday, October 1, 2021. (Ali Vicoy)
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