VILLAMOR AIRBASE, Pasay City — In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for a swift and comprehensive government response to communities affected by the Southern Mindanao earthquake, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has mobilized large-scale relief assistance and a strategic fleet of Patient Transport Vehicles (PTVs) for affected families, sending thousands of essential supplies, medical transport assets, and emergency assistance to impacted areas.

The latest relief operation follows PCSO’s initial response through its Authorized Agent Corporations (AACs), which immediately mobilized and provided relief aid to affected communities within the first 24 hours after the earthquake.

At 4 a.m. on June 11, PCSO’s bulk relief cargo was prepared for transport at Villamor Air Base in coordination with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to ensure the swift delivery of assistance to communities in need.

An Airbus C-295 aircraft was allocated for the initial transport of relief goods to General Santos City. The C-295 departed Villamor Air Base at 8:20 a.m. carrying ChariTimba food packs.

A succeeding C-130 flight also departed at approximately 11:30 a.m. to transport the remaining relief goods prepared by PCSO for earthquake-hit communities in Southern Mindanao.

The transported relief packs are designated for immediate distribution to heavily impacted areas, specifically targeting displaced families and residents in Barangays Calumpang, Apopong, and Lagao in General Santos City, as well as affected communities in the municipality of Malapatan, Sarangani.

Aside from the relief goods transported from Villamor Air Base, PCSO is also deploying Patient Transport Vehicles (PTVs) from Cebu to support affected areas in Mindanao. Two PTVs each will be sent to Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, and Davao del Norte, while one PTV will be deployed to North Cotabato. This deployment of PTVs forms part of PCSO’s broader effort to support emergency response, medical assistance, and mobility needs in earthquake-affected communities.

The relief assistance includes Charitimba food packs, hygiene kits, evacuation kits, and medicine kits intended to support affected families, evacuees, and communities recovering from the impact of the earthquake.

PCSO General Manager Melquiades Robles said the agency’s continuing response reflects its commitment to be present for Filipinos from the first hours of a disaster through the succeeding phases of relief and recovery.

“In times of disaster, immediate action can make a real difference for families who have lost access to basic needs. PCSO, through our AACs, was able to respond within the first 24 hours, and we are continuing that effort by sending more essential supplies, medical support, and relief assistance to our kababayans affected by the earthquake in Southern Mindanao,” Robles said.

“This is part of our commitment to support the President’s directive for a swift and coordinated government response during calamities. We will continue to work with partner agencies to ensure that assistance reaches affected families as quickly and as efficiently as possible,” he added.

The Charitimba packages contain essential food items designed to help sustain affected families during emergencies, including rice, ready-to-eat canned goods, instant noodles, and other basic food supplies that can be easily prepared and consumed by displaced individuals and families.

Each evacuation kit contains a mosquito net, towel, blanket, plastic mat, pillow, pair of slippers, and hand-crank flashlight. The hygiene kits include a malong, deodorant, alcohol, shampoo, powder, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, face mask, tissue, sanitary pads, and nail cutter.

The magnitude 7.8 tectonic earthquake struck off Southern Mindanao on Monday morning, causing damage to buildings, disrupting utility services, and prompting the suspension of classes and work in several areas while authorities continued to assess the full extent of the damage.

Robles said the June 11 shipments form part of PCSO’s continuing relief response for communities affected by the earthquake in Southern Mindanao, with the agency prepared to provide assistance based on the needs identified on the ground.

“We remain committed to supporting our fellow Filipinos affected by this disaster. PCSO stands ready to provide assistance and work with our partners to help ensure that aid reaches the communities that need it most,” Robles said.

PCSO assured the public that it will continue coordinating with concerned government agencies and local partners to support ongoing relief, response, and recovery operations for communities affected by the earthquake in Southern Mindanao.

Acting Senate President and Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian warned on Monday, June 15 that any hearing or investigation to be conducted outside of the domain of the duly constituted Senate Blue Ribbon Committee will not carry any legal weight or institutional authority.

Gatchalian issued the statement following reports that the camp of former congressman Mike Defensor has scheduled a blue ribbon committee investigation into the flood control mess.

“The Senate recognizes only one Blue Ribbon Committee, the one headed by Senator Erwin Tulfo,” Gatchalian said.

“Any hearing or investigation conducted outside of this committee has no legal standing, carries no institutional authority, and will not be recognized by the Senate,” he further said.

Gatchalian explained that the work of exposing corruption and holding wrongdoers accountable is serious business and deserves a proper, legitimate, and duly constituted forum.

In this vein, he reiterated his call for all witnesses and resource persons to come forward and testify before official Blue Ribbon committee.

“Ang Senado ay nakatuon sa tunay na pag-imbestiga at pag-uusig ng korapsyon sa tamang paraan at sa tamang forum. Iyon ang aming pangako sa sambayanang Pilipino (The Senate is committed to truly investigating and prosecuting corruption in the right way and in the right forum. That is our promise to the Filipino people),” Gatchalian said.

Police Capt. Jay-r Reyes, head of Police Station 7, said the 24-year-old suspect, who was initially reported as a senior high school student, allegedly tried to borrow money from the 36-year-old victim during a drinking session but the request led to an argument.

The suspect choked the victim by wrapping his neck around his arms and forced him to drink a strong chemical which authorities suspect was muriatic acid.

Reyes added the victim sustained bruises that could be possible burns from the chemical.

The victim was found half-naked and lifeless on the floor when police responded to a reported commotion.

Police have yet to establish if the victim was mauled before he was poisoned pending autopsy result.

Reyes said the suspect was arrested in the kitchen where he was hiding after multiple escape attempts through a ceiling.

The teacher and student are not affiliated with the same school.

The suspect said it was his sixth visit to the victim’s house.

A murder complaint was filed on Monday, June 15, against the suspect, who knew the victim for about a year.

Marcos visited evacuation centers in Glan, Sarangani, on Monday, June 15.

He also oversaw the distribution of relief assistance to affected families and led the assessment of several damaged structures in Sarangani.

The President began his visit with an aerial inspection of damaged infrastructure across Sarangani, where communities continue to struggle with the aftermath of the powerful June 8 earthquake.

Marcos and other government officials then proceeded to the evacuation center at the municipal plaza in Glan, where more than a hundred families remain sheltered in makeshift tents while waiting for permanent assistance.

According to Malacañang, a total of P20 million in assistance was provided to the municipality of Glan through the Socio-Civic Project Fund (SCPF).

The Chief Executive also inspected the damaged Sapu Masla Bridge in Malapatan, a key transport link whose damage has slowed the movement of residents, farmers, and traders.

At Malapatan National High School, school officials showed the President a severely damaged four-story building whose roof also completely collapsed during the earthquake.

"Sa direktiba ng Pangulo, agarang kinumpuni ang tulay at pansamantala nang naibalik ang daloy ng transportasyon upang matiyak ang tuloy-tuloy na paggalaw ng mga tao, kalakal, at mahahalagang serbisyo sa mga apektadong komunidad (Upon the President’s directive, the bridge was immediately repaired and transportation access was temporarily restored to ensure the continuous movement of people, goods, and essential services in the affected communities)," Malacañang said.

During a situation briefing in General Santos City, Marcos led the turnover of patient transport vehicles and assistance funds, assuring affected communities that the national government would continue supporting Sarangani and other Mindanao provinces as they rebuild from one of the strongest earthquakes to hit the region in recent years.

The President also visited General Santos City on June 10 to assess the aftermath of the earthquake. During his visit, he announced that the families of those who died during the earthquake will receive P50,000 each from the government.

House leaders have welcomed President Marcos's call for a special session on June 17, saying it provides an opportunity for Congress to complete key legislation on social protection, education, and healthcare.

Hailing the Palace move were Speaker Isabela 6th district Rep. Faustino "Bojie" Dy III, Majority Leader Ilocos Norte 1st district Rep. Sandro Marcos, and quad-committee (quad-comm) v2.0 overall chairman Manila 6th district Rep. Bienvenido "Benny" Abante Jr.

“The House of Representatives stands ready to heed the President’s call and continue advancing legislation that directly responds to the needs of our people,” Speaker Dy said on Monday, June 15 shortly after the announcement was made.

Dy noted that all of the measures specifically identified by President Marcos in Proclamation No. 1318, on for a special session of Congress, have already been approved by the House.

In his proclamation, the President listed several priority measures for action of Congress, including the National Center for Geriatric Health Act, Amendments to the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) Act, Assistance to individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) Act, Amendments to Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA), Last Mile and Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged and Conflict-Affected Areas Schools (GIDA) Act, Amendmends to the Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act, Anti Political Dynasty Law, and the Presidential Merit Scholarship Program Act, along with "other measures aimed toward strengthening social protection and uplifting the lives of the Filipino people."

The onus is now on the other legislative chamber, the Senate, to match the House's legislative output and move the cited measures toward bicameral approval.

Before adjourning sine die on June 3, the House had already acted on 26 measures under the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) Common Legislative Agenda. Of these, one measure has already been enacted into law, one has completed bicameral conference committee action, three are currently undergoing bicameral conference committee deliberations, and 21 have been approved on third and final reading.

Of the 52 LEDAC priority measures, the House has already acted on half, underscoring its commitment to advancing the administration’s legislative agenda and delivering reforms that benefit Filipino families.

Apart from the measures listed in the proclamation for special session, the House has also approved other LEDAC priority measures, including proposed National Land Use Act, the Right to Information Act, amendments to the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), the Department of Water Resources Act, the restructuring of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), the Waste-to-Energy Act, the Digital Payments Act, and the proposed Anti-Fake News and Disinformation Act.

Dy said the President’s call for a special session demonstrates the administration’s determination to ensure that priority legislation addressing the needs of students, senior citizens, vulnerable sectors, and Filipino families is acted upon without delay.

“The House has already laid much of the groundwork for these priority reforms. We stand ready to work with the Senate and the Executive Branch to complete the legislative process and deliver meaningful benefits to the Filipino people,” Dy said.

“The work of the House does not end with the passage of bills. Our responsibility is to help ensure that these measures become law and ultimately translate into better lives, better opportunities, and a more secure future for our people,” Dy said.

Urgent legislation 

Rep. Marcos said the President’s call for a special session reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring that urgent and high-impact legislation is acted upon without delay.

“The President’s call underscores the urgency of legislation that expands educational opportunities, strengthens assistance programs for vulnerable sectors, improves healthcare services, and promotes greater social protection,” he said.

“We welcome the opportunity to continue the work already undertaken by the House and move these priority measures closer to enactment," added the presidential son.

He emphasized that the House maintained a productive legislative pace throughout the first regular session of the 20th Congress and remains prepared to continue work on the priority measures identified by the President.

“The House has demonstrated its readiness to act decisively on important reforms. We look forward to working with our colleagues in the Senate and our partners in the Executive Branch to complete these measures and deliver real, lasting benefits to the Filipino people," the Ilocano said.

For his part, Abante expressed his gratitude to the Chief Executive for including the proposed National Center for Geriatric Health among the measures identified for consideration during the special session

Abante, one of the principal authors of the measure, said the inclusion of the bill in Proclamation No. 1318 underscores the growing need to strengthen healthcare services for the country’s senior citizens.

“I would like to thank President Marcos for recognizing the importance of this measure and for making it one of the priorities for the special session. This sends a clear message that caring for our elderly is a national concern that deserves urgent attention," said the pastor-solon.

The proposed National Center for Geriatric Health seeks to establish a specialized institution dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and research of age-related diseases and conditions affecting senior citizens.

Abante has been a consistent advocate for improved geriatric healthcare services for more than a decade. In 2009, he helped establish the National Center for Geriatric Health in San Miguel, Manila.

“The need for specialized geriatric care is not new. We recognized this when we worked to establish the National Center for Geriatric Health in Manila in 2009. The measure now before Congress seeks to build on that foundation and expand our capacity to care for an aging population,” he said.

Since then, the news spread like wildfire, with the families of both the players, and the community of fans and supporters all asking for a clear explanation of the unfortunate incident that took place.

June 8: Ateneo de Manila confirms the passing of players Rene Baterbonia, 18, and Divine Adili, 21, after drowning during a team-building of its men’s basketball squad in Dipaculao, Aurora. The Police Regional Office 3 reported on the same day that Baterbonia and Adili were both carried away by rip currents, based on findings in the police report.

June 9: Baterbonia and Adili’s remains were transferred from Aurora Memorial Hospital to Arlington Memorial Chapels and Crematory in Quezon City. On the same day, Baterbonia’s family arrived from Agusan Del Sur and requested an autopsy. Ateneo de Manila, through Arlington, has coordinated with the appropriate authorities including the NBI and the CIDG to facilitate the process.

READ: Rene's mom: Apology is not enough

The Philippine Sports Commission also formed a panel to look into the incident, composed of officials from the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipins (SBP), the UAAP, the Commission on Higher Education, the Department of Education, and the National Youth Commission.

June 10: The Sports Stakeholders’ Panel formed by the PSC pushed for major reforms on safety and governance initiatives for collegiate athletes aimed at preventing similar tragedies following a three-hour meeting. The PSC, together with partner agencies, also extended P250,000 aid each to the families of Baterbonia and Adili.

Speaking during the Sports Stakeholders’ Panel press conference, the UAAP said it is awaiting official reports before deciding on its next course of action regarding the incident. UAAP executive director Atty. Rebo Saguisag added that any decision on whether to suspend Ateneo head coach Tab Baldwin rests with Ateneo.

June 11: Ateneo de Manila, in a statement, presented data on what transpired that day to avoid misinformation that has been circulating on social media. It also announced that the university is conducting an inquiry on the incident. At the same time, the university said head coach Tab Baldwin and team manager Epok Quimpo have taken leaves of absences following the incident.

That same afternoon, Baldwin was seen with members of the Ateneo community attending a vigil held in memory of Baterbonia and Adili inside the campus. It was his first appearance since the incident.

READ: Baldwin attends vigil as Ateneo mourns loss of two student-athletes

June 12: Baterbonia’s remains arrived at the Ateneo de Davao University. The school announced that it is hosting a public viewing at the Christ the King Chapel on the Ateneo de Davao Senior High School-Bangkal Campus until June 14

READ: Welcome home, Bobet: Davao City pays tribute to Rene Baterbonia

Meanwhile, Elias Adili sought for answers and justice for the death of his son, Divine, in a Facebook post.

On Friday evening, Tab Baldwin finally broke his silence and issued a four-minute public apology, stating he has failed as a leader, as a coach and as a friend to both Divine and Rene.

June 13: In a surprise social media post, Baldwin’s estranged wife, Efi, disclosed she has warned Ateneo to keep him away from children. She also alleged that Ateneo put up a campaign through intimidation after relaying her concerns to the administration.

Ateneo also held a candle light service for Adili.

June 14: Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) has offered scholarships for all six siblings of Rene Baterbonia. Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila withdrew its participation in the ongoing 19th Filoil Ecooil Preseason Cup.

June 15: Ateneo de Manila University has accepted the resignations of men’s basketball head coach Tab Baldwin and team manager Epok Quimpo, effective immediately.

Speaking publicly for the first time since the incident, Ateneo President Fr. Bobby Yap SJ announced the development, saying the university continues to address the consequences of the tragedy.

The local currency closed stronger by 1.4 percent at ₱60.48 against the greenback from Thursday’s close of ₱61.35, according to data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines. Local financial markets were closed on Friday for the Independence Day holiday. 
Monday’s close was the strongest finish for the peso since May 8, when it hovered at ₱60.613.

The rally was triggered by news that the US and Iran are scheduled to sign a formal peace agreement on Friday. The expected diplomatic breakthrough is expected to allow the immediate reopening of the blockaded Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil transit.

For the net oil-importing Philippines, which has wrestled with imported inflation and widening trade imbalances, the de-escalation offers much-needed relief.

The local unit opened the session at ₱60.60 before reaching an intraday high of ₱60.445. It touched a low of ₱60.73 in thinner-than-usual trading.

Total spot volume on the BAP platform reached $1.678 billion, retreating from the $2.273 billion churned out on Thursday as some market participants stayed on the sidelines to digest the rapid shift in global sentiment.

Japanese financial giant MUFG Bank Ltd. indicated that the sudden diplomatic pivot could allow the peso to steadily claw back its recent losses and reverse its multi-week underperformance against regional peers.

Up until this week, the peso had been one of Southeast Asia's most exposed currencies to elevated crude prices, fueling speculation that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas might be forced into an aggressive, off-cycle rate hike to anchor the exchange rate.

Local analysts expect the momentum to carry over into the coming weeks if the geopolitical detente holds. Michael Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., said the peso stands to absorb further structural benefits from the global de-escalation, projecting that the currency could push deeper into the ₱59 territory as early as the second half of June or by July.

However, some institutional observers suggest caution, warning that the local currency’s fate remains tied to broader macroeconomic forces beyond regional conflicts.

Robert Dan Roces, group economist at SM Investments Corp., noted that while a return to the ₱59 level is structurally viable under current conditions, sustainable gains will require a broader, systemic softening of the greenback.

According to Roces, the macroeconomic path of the Federal Reserve and global dollar demand will ultimately dictate whether the peso can sustain this psychological breakthrough. (Derco Rosal)

In an interview with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, the girls shared that the upbeat track is a tribute to the iconic women of the 2000s who shaped fashion, film, and music. For the trio, the song is about embracing confidence, enjoying life, and celebrating youth.

"The inspiration behind the song is the iconic women of the 2000s like Heidi Klum, Paris Hilton, and Kate Moss," Alfea said. "We wanted to create a song that feels good and makes people feel like their best self."

The Y2K-inspired music video further reinforces that message. Drawing from the era's fashion icons, party culture, paparazzi moments, and celebrity glamour, the visual perfectly captures the playful energy of the track. The group credited creative director and stylist Eldz Mejia for bringing the concept to life, while also acknowledging the collaborative effort behind the project.

Celebrating the rise of P-pop

The release arrives at a time when P-pop continues to gain momentum both locally and internationally. With groups like SB19 and Bini breaking barriers and reaching global audiences, G22 sees the growing attention as both inspiring and motivating.

"It's something we're really proud of," AJ said. "Our seniors are showing that it's possible for Filipinos and for P-pop groups to perform on stages like Lollapalooza and Coachella."

The group remembers a time when P-pop had yet to gain widespread recognition. Today, they see more listeners embracing original Filipino music and more opportunities opening up for artists.

"We can show the world what OPM and P-pop are," Alfea said. "There are more eyes on our country now, and we're excited to show more of what we can offer in music, visuals, and art."

Life behind the spotlight

Despite their growing success, life outside the spotlight remains surprisingly simple. When not performing, AJ enjoys spending time with friends, playing chess, trying sports like golf, and focusing on health and wellness. Meanwhile, Jaz enjoys watching movies in cinemas, eating out, and taking long walks around malls. Lastly, Alfea spends her day off filled with Pilates, rowing, reading books in a café, catching up with friends, and treating herself to a relaxing massage.

Their schedules no longer allow them to continue their studies, but they remain focused on personal growth and finding balance amid demanding careers. Like many young people chasing big dreams, the members admit they still experience moments of doubt. The difference is how they choose to respond.

"We all have our doubts," Jaz shared. "But we try to remember that we'll get through whatever we're feeling."

When those moments come, AJ’s method is shifting her mindset and focusing on possibilities instead of fears. But the greatest source of strength, however, comes from each other.

"We have each other," Alfea said. "One of us might be doubting herself, but we all understand because we're experiencing the same thing. We carry each other."

First solo concert

That bond will be put on full display as G22 prepares for a major milestone: their first solo concert, “The Eve of an Alpha” happening on July 12, 2026, at the New Frontier Theater.

The concert promises more than performances. The group describes it as an emotional journey filled with storytelling, meaningful messages, and moments that audiences can take home long after the final bow.

"It feels unreal," Alfea said. "We went from being trainees doing drills in the studio to having an album, more songs, and now a concert dedicated to us."

While the experience comes with pressure, it also brings excitement. As they continue reaching new milestones, G22 remains grateful to the fans who have stood by them every step of the way.

"Thank you to our Bullets for believing in our music," AJ said. "Our wins are also their wins. This dream is not only for ourselves but also for the people who believe in us. See you on July 12."

The SIBOL Honor of Kings national team moved on cusp of securing a berth in the 2026 Asian Games after a dominant 2-0 sweep of Mongolia in the group stage of the Asian Games Qualifiers at the Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel.

Coming off an opening-day victory over Pakistan, the Filipinos stayed unbeaten at 2-0 in Group A and remained tied with Indonesia at the top of the standings

"This second win is good for us. If we win our next match, we will surely get our spot in the main event of the Asian Games in Nagoya," said head coach Gerald Gelacio.

Despite the strong start, Gelacio emphasized that the team remains focused on the task at hand and is not looking beyond its next opponent.

"Focused pa rin ngayon ang team kasi di pa naman totally tapos ang qualifiers. About sa gameplay naman natin, nalalaro naman natin onstage yung mga pinapractice namin sa scrims."

The Filipinos will try to book their ticket to Nagoya when they return to action on Wednesday, June 17 against third-running Uzbekistan.

SIBOL wasted little time asserting control in Game 1, racing to a 7–0 kill lead by the fifth minute behind Chammy Paul Nazarrea’s early five-kill performance. 

Jungler Justine Ritchie Valencia Tan then helped secure an ace with a triple kill in the sixth minute, as the Philippines quickly regained control after a brief Mongolian response. The opening game ended in under eight minutes.

In Game 2, midlaner Dragon Hart Dajao powered an early surge with a double kill in the second minute, helping SIBOL build a 3,000-gold lead. He later added a triple kill in a fifth-minute skirmish that stretched the advantage to 10,000 gold as the Filipinos closed out the match in six minutes.

Taking that commitment to a greater level, the Philippines’ leading home improvement and construction supplies retailer, Wilcon Depot, is set to host its upcoming first-ever Wilcon 10-Miler Run 2026 in support of environmental and humanitarian causes. The event aims to gather health and fitness enthusiasts, members of the construction and design community, media partners, and valued suppliers from across the country on June 21, 2026, at Parqal, Aseana City in Parañaque City.

Participants who register for the run will receive an official race kit and can choose to compete in three race categories: 5 kilometers, 10 kilometers, and 16 kilometers, which are designed to accommodate runners of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes.

More than a running event, the Wilcon Depot 10-Miler Run is a platform for creating lasting social and environmental impact. Proceeds will support organizations championing environmental conservation, humanitarian assistance, and sustainable wildlife management.

Among the beneficiaries is Bantay Kalikasan, the environmental program of the ABS-CBN Foundation, recognized since 1998 for its work in biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable community development. The event will also benefit Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Inc., which provides humanitarian aid and disaster response to underserved communities across the country.

A portion of the proceeds will likewise support Crocodylus Porosus Philippines, Inc. (CPPI), a commercial crocodile farming organization that has promoted sustainable wildlife management and conservation since 2000.

Through every stride, participants contribute to initiatives that protect the environment, uplift communities, and advance responsible conservation efforts for future generations.

The event serves as an extension of the company’s commitment to fostering wellness, strengthening community connections, and supporting environmental stewardship through initiatives that inspire active lifestyle and collective action.

Adding excitement to the event is the support of Wilcon Depot’s trusted brands and sponsors, including Boysen, American Standard, HCG, Kohler, Bestank, Sentry, HomeAid, Philips, Kent Floor, Rain or Shine, Sefa, Pozzi, Primeo, Hills, Kessel, Heim, P.Tech, Hafele, ABC Phils, Landlite, Apo Floors, and Santé Barley Max.

Participants can look forward to an amazing race-day experience unlike any other, featuring exciting activities, race kits, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful causes while celebrating health, camaraderie, and a shared sense of community.

Registration and further details regarding the event is now available via Wilcon Depot Official Website at www.wilcon.com.ph and Wilcon 10-Miler Run Facebook page.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Senator Erwin Tulfo, the panel clarified that the recent announcements made by former Congressman Mike Defensor regarding an alleged hearing on said date were made without the authority and approval of the Committee.

"Accordingly, the Committee categorically rejects the misinformation being circulated online," it added.

The panel reminded that legislative proceedings must strictly adhere to established protocols. 

Under the Rules of the Senate, a formal three-day notice and agenda distribution are mandatory before any committee hearing. The purported June 16 hearing completely bypasses this institutional requirement, rendering it illegitimate.

It also stated that Defensor is neither a member of the Senate nor the Blue Ribbon Committee.

"Consequently, he is not privy to the official investigations of this body. He possesses no legal standing to announce any proceeding on behalf of the Senate," it said.

"The Blue Ribbon Committee will not permit its name and institutional integrity to be misrepresented or utilized for unauthorized disclosures. The public is urged to rely exclusively on the official announcements and advisories from the Blue Ribbon Committee and/or Senate of the Philippines," it added.

In an interview, Tulfo said that the event is more of a press conference than a hearing. He stated that they're looking possible legal action against Defensor for announcing such an event.

"Pero initially po, we're looking at usurpation of authority po yun, yung ginagawa niya po na gano'n (At the outset, we are considering whether his actions constitute usurpation of authority)," Tulfo said.

The 173-gross ton motor yacht “Philippine Siren 2” ran aground around 5 a.m. after being hit by severe weather while moored near the protected reef system in Palawan.

“They experienced a sudden strong wind and bad weather, or what we call a squall, while they were moored to an anchored buoy about 7.2 nautical miles northeast of Tubbataha Reef,” PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said on Monday, June 15.

The yacht had departed Puerto Princesa City on June 10 for a diving expedition in the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich marine biodiversity and strict conservation rules.

“They were in the area for a diving expedition. Initially, they left Puerto Princesa on June 10 and headed to the Tubbataha for a diving expedition when they encountered the squall. That was the time we received a call, and we immediately dispatched personnel together with staff from the Tubbataha Reef Management Office,” Cayabyab said.

The vessel was carrying 28 people composed of 14 divers and 14 crew members. The divers consisted of nine Americans, three Germans, and two Filipinos.

The response team proceeded to the area aboard a Ranger Station patrol boat to assess the situation and render assistance, which led to the rescue of the divers and crew.

Cayabyab said all passengers and crew were safe following the incident.

Upon rescue, the divers and four crew members were transferred to another motor yacht and transported to Puerto Princesa City for further assessment although they were initially reported to be in good physical condition.

Meanwhile, 10 crew members remained aboard Philippine Siren 2 as response operations continued.

The grounding raised concerns about possible damage to the reef ecosystem, which is protected under a strict management that requires vessels and visitors to secure permits before entering the park.

“This falls under the Tubbataha Management Office. Usually, there is a permit or clearance for that. But in case an incident occurs, the best practice is to call the PCG so we can respond,” Cayabyab said.

The PCG said BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV-4411) had been deployed to provide additional assistance and support environmental protection efforts in the area.

Meanwhile, Cayabyab said there were no signs of marine pollution, although precautionary measures had been put in place.

“We deployed an oil spill boom so that, in case a leak occurs, it is ready to contain it. But as we speak, and based on monitoring and assessment of the vessel, we have not seen any oil leak around the ship,” Cayabyab said.

The PCG said it continues to coordinate with the Tubbataha Management Office and other authorities as they monitor the vessel and work to safeguard the protected marine ecosystem.

The game plan for TNT all along was to let Justin Brownlee win games against the Tropang 5G. 

And while it seemed like a "pick your poison" type of gamble, it somehow worked wonders for the Triopa particularly in the do-or-die Game 6 when they pulled off a 98-80 win to force the winner-take-all Game 7.

But how does it exactly work?

The plan is simple. Wear down Brownlee and have him do most of the lifting until he breaks down. And to do that, the crucial part lies on how they actually defend the rest of the team.

And that's exactly what happened in Game 6 when no one other than Brownlee scored in double figures for Ginebra. Actually, Brownlee, like in Game 5, almost won it for the Kings by pouring 52 points — just a day removed after resetting a career-high 54.

But with Chris McCullough matching him point-for-point, the lack of local support had never been more glaring for the Kings.

“Well, that's really the game plan to force Justin to work for his points but to make sure none of the locals get going,” said TNT head coach Chot Reyes

Troy Rosario was the best local scorer for Ginebra with nine. The usual local scoring punch in RJ Abarrientos and Scottie Thompson was limited to just six and two points, respectively, combining for subpar 2-of-18 from the field.

“Unfortunately, that game plan backfired on us last game because Justin beat us almost by himself really. But again, super player, there's very little we can do to stop him so our best bet really is defending the others,” added Reyes.

Fully conceding that TNT cannot fully stop Brownlee, another part of the plan is to make sure that he also bleeds for his points even if he reaches 50 — something that they failed to do in Game 5 when he also got open shots.

The problem, however, for TNT heading into Game 7 is manpower with Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser, Calvin Oftana and Jayson Castro all questionable, especially since they are the more reliable defenders to Ginebra’s locals

Can TNT survive another big game from Brownlee?

Classes in the province remain suspended until June 17 as emergency protocols are still in effect.

The Schools Division of Sarangani said that 258 out of 327 schools in the province were affected by the earthquake, with 617 classrooms totally and 1,127 partially damaged.

DepEd-Sarangani chief Dr. Ruth Estacio said inspections are still ongoing to identify which remaining schools or classrooms are still safe to be occupied.

Estacio said that psychosocial activities will be conducted once suspension of classes is lifted.

The school official said that debriefing or play therapies for affected learners will be conducted in open spaces and classrooms declared safe by structural engineers.

Should classes resume, Estacio said severely affected schools will utilize learning activity sheets as among the alternatives.

“If the classrooms would be inspected and cleared by the structural engineers, then we can still use them. If totally damaged, especially if it sustained structural damage, then we will no longer use the buildings,” she said.

DepEd-Sarangani serves the towns of Alabel, Glan, Kiamba, Maasim, Maitum, Malapatan, and Malungon.

DepEd-Sarangani said the coastal town of Glan has the highest number of damaged schools with 29 and 206 and 317 classrooms sustaining major and minor damages. Twenty-seven schools sustained major damage in Malapatan. At least 100 classrooms sustained major damage and 165 had minor damage.

Estacio said that they cannot give a definite date on the resumption of classes as they are still monitoring the situation. Nineteen schools are still being used as evacuation centers. Five of these schools are in Glan where about 500 houses were totally damaged.

In a regulatory disclosure, Cebu Pacific reported that it carried 2.40 million passengers in the reference month, a 1.3 percent decline from the 2.44 million recorded in the same month last year.

While down year-on-year, the latest passenger volume rose 5.7 percent from April’s 2.27 million, which had itself fallen by eight percent from March.

The low-cost carrier said its domestic passenger volume, which accounted for 76 percent of the total, remained relatively stable at 1.83 million in May.

International traffic, on the other hand, stood at 575,000 passengers, a decline from the previous month's 602,000, maintaining its downward trajectory on an annual basis.

Cebu Pacific raised its seat capacity during the month by nine percent to 3.07 million, while its seat load factor (SLF), or the percentage of occupied seats, stood at 78.3 percent.

“May marked a meaningful improvement from April as SLF increased by 4 points, as commercial initiatives and pricing adjustments gained traction,” the company said.

The improvement in May coincided with the easing of the fuel surcharge, which the government allows carriers to add to plane tickets to recover losses caused by jet fuel costs. After the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) raised the surcharge to a record Level 19 in the second half of April, it went down to Level 18 in the first half of May and later dropped to Level 15.

Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer Alexander Lao said that following these price adjustments, the airline saw stronger booking momentum, which he said demonstrates the “market’s responsiveness to calibrated fare levels.”

“As we enter the seasonally softer third quarter, we are taking a disciplined approach to capacity and revenue management to match demand, support healthy load factors, and maintain affordable fares while managing elevated operating costs, particularly fuel,” he said.

As part of these efforts, Cebu Pacific said flights operated by its boutique unit AirSWIFT Transport Inc. will be handled by its regional arm CebGo starting July 1.

“During this transition, there will be no changes in AirSWIFT’s flight schedules and services, as flights to and from El Nido will continue as scheduled,” the company said in a statement. AirSWIFT carried a total of 429,222 passengers in 2025, the year Cebu Pacific completed its ₱1.75 billion takeover of the airline.

For the first five months of the year, Cebu Pacific’s passenger volume expanded by 4.6 percent to 12.21 million from 11.67 million in the same period last year. The airline’s domestic segment jumped by 4.7 percent to 9.09 million passengers, while the international segment grew by 4.5 percent to 3.12 million.

SLF at the end of May declined to 80.7 percent, while seat capacity increased by 10.2 percent to 15.13 million.

The suspect, known by the alias Alberto, 53, and a resident of Barangay Tula, Pambujan, Northern Samar, was apprehended on the strength of a warrant of arrest issued on July 29, 2012, by Presiding Judge Jacob Montesa II of the Muntinlupa Metropolitan Trial Court Branch 80. Bail had been set at ₱12,000.

Personnel from the Muntinlupa Police Warrant and Subpoena Unit served the warrant at the Northern Samar Police Provincial Office following nationwide operations and inter-unit coordination that tracked down Alberto’s location.

He is now under police custody. The warrant will be returned to the court.

Brig. Gen. Glenn Oliver Cinco, district director of the Southern Police District, commended the arrest, describing it as a result of the police force’s determination to locate and apprehend wanted persons.

As students across the country gear up for another school year, content creator Esnyr Ranollo has brought back his viral school-themed YouTube series with a brand-new episode, "First Day High."

The latest installment premiered on June 14 and taps into the familiar excitement, awkwardness, and first-day jitters that come with returning to school.

Announcing the release on Instagram, the former "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Edition Collab" housemate expressed his excitement over finally sharing the project.

"FINALLY MAY NEW EPISODE NA! Eto na ang PINAKA-PASABOG na comeback para sa inyo," he wrote.

Esnyr revealed that the episode took three months to complete, describing it as one of the biggest productions he has worked on to date.

"At last, pwede ko na siya i-share. For the past three months, we've been quietly working and pouring our time, effort, and yes... medyo malaking budget on this one. Kaya sana worth it ang paghihintay niyo!" he said.

The new episode features an impressive lineup of celebrity guest stars, including Vice Ganda, Donny Pangilinan, Belle Mariano, and Empoy Marquez.

In the teaser, Esnyr poked fun at some of the most relatable back-to-school experiences.

"Back to school. Back to reality. Bagong gamit. Bagong mga kaklase. And siyempre hindi mawawala 'yung napakabagong, 'How about you? Introduce yourself' sa harap ng klase," he quipped.

Fans and fellow celebrities quickly flooded the comments section with praise following the episode's release.

"IBA KA," Bianca Gonzalez wrote.

"My fave multiverse!" one fan commented.

The comeback appears to be another hit for the content creator, with "First Day High" already garnering more than 1.6 million views on YouTube as of writing.

Veteran Alyssa Valdez, the face of the sport for more than a decade already, was holding back her tears while answering the question on why she took the challenge to lead Alas Pilipinas’ campaign in the just-concluded 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup in Candon City.

“I’ve been asking myself bakit ko ginawa itong decision na ito sa volleyball career ko, and I think na actually lumabas was kung ano ‘yong love no’ng bata ako sa volleyball hanggang ngayon ‘yon pa rin ‘yong love ko sa pag-represent sa bansa,” said Valdez.

Her simple answer gained not only admiration but also much love and respect from men and women who chronicled the event for more than a week.

“So, sarap sa pakiramdam, pero… hindi man naging maganda ‘yong resulta pero para sa mga bata magtuloy-tuloy talaga ‘yong fire nila to represent the country,” she added moments after the Philippines settled for eight overall in the continental joust following its 21-25, 12-25, 21-25 loss to Iran.

With the young and brightest opting not to join the PH squad, perhaps due to leadership squabble, Valdez and other veterans like Jovelyn Gonzaga, Ces Molina, Ara Galang, and Royse Tubino stepped up on the plate for the love and pride of serving the country though they are no longer as quick and strong as before.

It is their hope that the young members of the team – Alyssa Solomon, Thea Gagate, and Niña Ytang – will never get tired wearing the tricolors and play with passion and fire.

She also urged other rising stars to stay focused, dream big and not be affected by the outside noise that put the volleyball association in a bad light of late – again.

“Para sa bawat atletang patuloy na nangangarap – lalo na sa mga kabataang nagsisimula pa lang, padayon tayo,” Valdez wrote on her social media post. 

“Sana hindi kayo mapagod, matakot, o sumuko sa pangarap n’yong magrepresent ng bansa sa kabila ng ingay at gulo sa paligid,” she added.

Valdez, a former Ateneo standout and longtime star of the Creamline Cool Smashers, also called for clarity amid the issues surrounding the path of the country's volleyball body, expressing hope for "leadership in all its forms" for betterment of the next generation.

“At a time like this, what the sport needs is not more division, but leadership in all its forms. Leadership that listens. Leadership that puts the welfare of athletes first. For the sports community, for the fans, for the country,” Valdez continued.

“Pero ngayon, higit kailanman, kailangan natin ang suporta ng volleyball community. Ngayon, hindi man pare-pareho ang paraan, ang mahalaga ay iisa ang hangarin – isang mas maayos, patas, at mas matatag na sistema para sa susunod na henerasyon ng atletang Pilipino,” she concluded. “Maraming salamat sa patuloy na naniniwala at magtitiwala.”

CAVITE – A port laborer with a history of epilepsy drowned in Naic early Monday morning, June 15, police said.

Initial investigation by the Naic Municipal Police Station (MPS) said the victim, alias Richard, and his brother, alias Rafael, both worked as port laborers at the Munting Mapino Bulungan Seafood Market.

Prior to the incident, the two were reportedly positioned in the shallow portion of the sea while waiting for fishing boats to arrive so they could unload and transport the catch to the local fish market at 12:30 a.m.

Authorities said the victim’s brother later proceeded to the market to deliver a catch, leaving the victim behind to wait for the next arriving vessel.

Statements obtained from the victim’s mother and brother revealed that the victim had a known medical history of epilepsy.

Based on the circumstances surrounding the incident, investigators believe the victim may have suffered an epileptic seizure while in the water, causing him to lose consciousness and subsequently drown.

Upon receiving the report, personnel from the Naic MPS and rescue teams from the Naic Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office immediately responded to the scene.

The victim was retrieved from the water and rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment. However, he was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

The DOLE hearing was supposed to be done at 10 a.m. on Monday, June 15 , which coincided with another hearing scheduled by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) roughly at the same time and at the same day.

Baldwin skipped both summons but the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) also scheduled its own hearing and said the American coach was asked to appear on Tuesday, June 16.

Both the CIDG and NBI heads said the summon was intended to establish the circumstances that led to the drowning of Ateneo basketball players Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili during a training program in Aurora. 

Aside from Baldwin, the CIDG also summoned Ateneo’s coaching team and officials of the university but only the sports development officer appeared at Camp Crame.

“We will issue the subpoena. If they fail to appear again, we will subpoena them again through their counsel. If they fail to appear again we will subpoena them through publication and that’s the time we will be considering filing appropriate cases against them,” said CIDG director Robert Alexander Morico.

NBI director Melvin Matibag said they also summoned Ateneo officials as part of the probe.

“We might finish the investigation within the week. We want to finish immediately so that we can make an immediate recommendation,” said Matibag.

DOLE, however, is pursuing another angle in relation to the work permit of Baldwin.

DOLE Secretary Francis Tolentino said Baldwin sent his lawyer to the DOLE on Monday and submitted his Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR).

But Tolentino said the ACR is not the document he wants to see as he emphasized that the probe will focus on whether or not Baldwin has a valid Alien Employment Permit (AEP).

“What his lawyer submitted was an ACR which establishes his status as a legal resident in the Philippines. But it does not automatically authorize a foreign national to work in the country,” said Tolentino.

Baldwin did not personally attend due to health concerns and Tolentino wants him to appear on June 29.

As to the AEP, he said the camp of Baldwin has until June 25 to submit a verified answer and supporting documents.

Based on the DOLE rules, the DOLE has 30 days to resolve the issue after two hearings but Tolentino said it can be done even with just one hearing.

Meanwhile, Tolentino said they have not yet summoned Ateneo de Manila University, noting that the proceedings currently involve only the employee-- which is Baldwin.

He added that DOLE will determine later whether the university’s participation will be necessary.

Speaking publicly for the first time since the incident, Ateneo President Fr. Bobby Yap SJ announced the development, saying the university continues to address the consequences of the tragedy.

“We will not shield to protect anyone nor we allow the integrity to be compromised,” said Fr. Yap in a press conference held inside the campus.

Baldwin took over the Ateneo program in 2016 and guided the Blue Eagles to four UAAP championships in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2022. The made it to the finals from 2016 to 2022, before failing to reach the Final Four in the last two seasons, finishing eighth in 2024 and sixth in 2025 after the elimination round.

Meanwhile, Ateneo President Fr. Bobby Yap, SJ, publicly apologized as the university continued to mourn the deaths of Baterbonia and Adili, speaking with a "heavy heart" and recognizing the deep grief and frustration felt by the families of the two student-athletes and the wider public.

“One week ago, our community was shattered by a tragedy that claimed the lives of our student-athletes, Rene and Divine,” Fr. Yap said. “No word in any language is capable of describing this loss.”

Fr. Yap reflected on the impact of losing two young lives, saying the tragedy extended beyond the deaths themselves to the dreams and futures that would never be realized.

“When a young man dies, we mourn both the loss of life and the shattering of dreams. We mourn the potential that won't come true, the empty chairs at family dinner tables, and the futures that were supposed to unfold in our playing courts and far beyond them,” Fr. Yap said.

Addressing the families directly, Fr. Yap also acknowledged their pain and frustration in the aftermath of the incident.

“To the families of Rene and Divine, we see you, we hear you. We acknowledge the unbearable pain of your mourning. We know that the grief you carry right now is compounded by an anger that is entirely natural, justified, and deeply human,” he said.

Fr. Yap then offered an apology on behalf of the university.

“On behalf of Ateneo de Manila University, I am here to say simply and directly: We are truly, deeply sorry. We apologize unreservedly to the families and to our entire community for the agonizing pain of this tragedy,” he said.

The Ateneo president said the university is approaching the situation with humility as it sought the community's prayers and forgiveness.

“We face this moment with absolute humility, and we ask for your prayers and your forgiveness,” Fr. Yap said.

He added that in the immediate aftermath of the incident, the university prioritized direct assistance and support for the families of the victims and members of the team affected by the tragedy.

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto signed Proclamations 1308 and 1297 on June 10 and uploaded them to the Official Gazette on June 12.

Under Proclamation 1297, June 16 is a special non-working holiday in Pili, Camarines Sur, in celebration of their 71st founding anniversary.

Proclamation 1308 declared June 24 a non-working day in Masbate province for the Bagat-Dagat Festival.

In a social media post, Masbate Gov. Richard Kho said one of the event’s highlights is the provincial drum and lyre competition on June 24 in Cataingan town.

The champion will take home P300,000, first runner-up P200,000, and second runner-up P100,000, while non-winners will get consolation prizes of P50,000.

Minor awards include Best in Street Parade (P20,000); Best in Costume (P10,000), and Best in Musicality (P10,000).

Kho encouraged the public to witness the epic showdown of rhythm, grace, and musical brilliance as schools from across the province battle it out in a celebration of culture, pride, and youthful talent. (PNA)

The rules being applied to Vice President Sara Duterte's Senate impeachment trial theoretically allows both the prosecution and defense side to present "surprise" witnesses in the sense that they were declared, but their identities were kept under wraps.

This can be gleaned from the statements made by House prosecution team members Batangas 2nd district Rep. Gerville "Jinky Bitrics" Luistro and San Juan City lone district Rep. Ysabel Maria Zamora in a press conference Monday, June 15.

Incidentally, the prosecution panel will be filing its pre-trial brief today wherein it will declare before the Senate impeachment court its pieces of evidence and list of witnesses, among other things.

“While the general rule is that we have to list down all of the names of the witnesses that we will be presenting during trial, we are allowed to withhold certain names for security and safety purposes,” Zamora said.

The clarification came after reporters asked whether or not bank officials would be among the witnesses tapped to testify by the prosecution in support of allegations involving Duterte's alleged unexplained wealth.

“So, regarding the bank officials, for example, it is possible that we will not yet say the names of these persons, but there will be a description of their position and or the purpose of their testimony,” Zamora said.

Luistro, the lead prosecutor in the high-stakes case, said this rule applies "not only to witnesses, it applies even to documents which are not yet available during the conduct of pre-trial".

“In simple terms, the parties are allowed to make a reservation in the pre-trial brief and during the pre-trial conference, provided we give a reasonable description of who this witness is, what will be the nature of the testimony, and what is the purpose to be achieved by presenting this witness,” she said.

The prosecution panel was yet to formally file it's pre-trial brief during the press conference. Monday was the deadline for the filing of the pleading,

At any rate, Luistro said more than 30 witnesses would be presented in the quest to convict Vice President Duterte.

"It is more than 25. The witnesses is not only 25, it’s not only 30, it’s even more,” said the Batangueña.

She says that generally speaking, witnesses whose names are not disclosed during pre-trial proceedings may be barred by the Senate impeachment court from testifying later.

The pre-trial brief will contain the prosecution’s list of witnesses, proposed stipulations of fact and documentary evidence that will be presented before the impeachment court.

Luistro said bank representatives and bank records have long been considered part of the evidence the House intends to present in the impeachment proceedings.

“We have no communication with the bank officials, but since the proceeding in the Justice Committee, it has always been the intention of the House of Representatives to include the bank representatives and the bank documents among the evidence which will be presented by the prosecution team,” she said.

This was after President Marcos called Congress to a special session on June 17 to urgently act on priority legislative measures. Under Proclamation No. 1318, signed on June 15, the President directed lawmakers to take up priority bills that remain pending despite having reached advanced stages of legislation.

Senator Erwin Tulfo said it's "possible" that the Senate leadership row will be addressed in the special session, with the hope that Gatchalian will be installed as the new Senate President.

"Sana nga. Dalangin naman ng lahat, hindi lang kami siguro, kundi ng sambayanan para matapos na ito, para tumahimik na dahil ang pangako naman po ni Sen. Cayetano, bababa siya pag may 13 (Hopefully. It’s the prayer of everyone, not just us, but of the people as well, that this will finally be resolved, so things can quiet down, because Senator (Alan) Cayetano promised he would step down once there are 13 votes)," Tulfo said.

Senator Joel Villanueva announced over the weekend that he would attend a special session. Whether he will join the Gatchalian bloc remains to be seen.

Apart from Villanueva, Tulfo said in a separate interview on DZRH that at least one male senator and a female senator could join Gatchalian’s bid for the Senate presidency.

“May hinihikayat na, aside from Sen. Joel, may dalawa pa. Isang lalaki at isang babae ang mahihikayat, pero ongoing naman yung usapan bilang magkakaibigan: nagdi-dinner at kumakain sa labas para mag-usap, o dadalaw sa bahay nung isa para, ika nga, makapag-usap, pero wala pa ngang malinaw na resulta sa pag-uusap (There are already efforts to persuade; aside from Senator Joel, two more — one man and one woman — are being encouraged.) But the talks are still ongoing as friends: having dinner, eating out to talk, or visiting each other’s homes to have conversations. However, there are still no clear results from these discussions),” Tulfo said.

In relation to the special session, Senator Panfilo Lacso posted on X: "Hopefully, Delulu pa more becomes Delulu no more."

No drama, no delay

"We in the majority welcome the call for a special session on June 17," Zubiri said.

Zubiri said that the agenda is clear and urgent, touching on health care, education funding, and assistance for Filipinos in crisis, matters that can bring real help to Filipino families who need the government to act with urgency and compassion.

He also added that the Commission on Appointments (CA) has important work to do on Cabinet, military, and foreign service appointments, and we owe it to our institutions to act with diligence and fairness.

"Papasok tayo, magtatrabaho tayo (We will report for work, we will do our jobs), and we will do our duty for the people. The Senate has always had the capacity to rise above difficult moments, and I trust that we can approach this session with seriousness, respect for our mandate, and a clear sense of responsibility to the people," he said.

"Walang drama, walang delay, walang dahilan para hindi magtrabaho (No drama, no delay, no reason not to do our job). We should be ready to work and ready to help move forward whatever must be acted upon for the public good," he added.

Zubiri said that the session will start at 9 a.m.

In a phone interview, Senator Erwin Tulfo said that Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian was already informed of the special session, stating that part of the agenda is the CA's composition for the promotion of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) personnel as well as the approval of citizenship of Bennie Boatwright and wrestler Matthew James Ramos.

Tulfo said that the session will just be for one day.

Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan stated that if Villanueva attends, there will be 13 present, including Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero.

"More than enough to convene the special session, whether their group attends or not," referring to Senator Alan Peter Cayetano's bloc.

Quezon City earned international recognition after its IRISE UP (Intelligent, Resilient, and Integrated Systems for the Urban Population) platform won the Frontline Protection Award at the Planet Aqua City Awards in Italy during Venice Climate Week.

Developed by the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, IRISE UP strengthens preparedness and response across 142 barangays through artificial intelligence, automated weather stations, flood sensors, and community-based reporting.

The system provides localized alerts that enable targeted measures and preemptive evacuations during disasters.

Mayor Joy Belmonte said the award highlights the city’s commitment to harnessing innovation and technology for public safety.

“This award reflects the hard work of the city government and our partners in developing solutions that place the safety and welfare of our people at the center of climate action,” she said.

The Frontline Protection Award, presented in partnership with C40 Cities, honors urban innovations that safeguard vulnerable communities from climate-related risks.

To expand credit opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with limited access to formal financing, LANDBANK and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) have strengthened their partnership to support enterprise growth and competitiveness nationwide.

Formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the collaboration connects entrepreneurs to LANDBANK’s Innovative Financing Thrust Towards Inclusive National Growth through Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (LIFTING MSMEs) Lending Program, while advancing initiatives in financial inclusion, digital transformation, sustainability, and financial capability building.

The signing was led by LANDBANK President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz and PCCI President Ferdinand A. Ferrer on 11 June 2026 at the Commerce and Industry Plaza in Taguig City, with LANDBANK Executive Vice President Charlotte I. Conde and PCCI Vice President for MSMEs Melanie Ng serving as witnesses.

"MSMEs form a critical engine of economic growth. They create jobs, drive local enterprise, and keep economic activity moving in communities far beyond our major urban centers. When MSMEs grow, more Filipinos participate in and benefit from economic progress," said LANDBANK President and CEO Ortiz.

Under the agreement, LANDBANK will provide qualified PCCI members access to its tailored lending programs and services, complemented by financial literacy initiatives, digital payment solutions, deposit products, and sustainability-focused financing to help strengthen business resilience and growth.

For its part, PCCI will leverage its nationwide network to promote the LIFTING MSMEs Lending Program, facilitate referrals of prospective MSME borrowers, and advocate for business formalization, financial readiness, and digital adoption among its members.

“This is just the beginning. Through PCCI and LANDBANK's partnership, we are expanding opportunities for our kababayans. We want to make sure that our MSMEs have access to both local and international market,” said PCCI President Ferrer.

The collaboration underscores both institutions’ shared commitment to empowering MSMEs as key drivers of employment, innovation, and inclusive economic growth, aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s broader UPLIFT (Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport) framework to expand opportunities and drive inclusive, sustainable growth nationwide.

Financial support for enterprise growth

Launched in September 2025, the LIFTING MSMEs Lending Program expands credit access through three tiered financing packages designed to support enterprises at various stages of growth.

The Start-Up package provides funding for new enterprises launching operations. The Step-Up package helps micro and small businesses strengthen and scale, while the Level-Up package supports established firms in expanding capacity, adopting technology, and boosting competitiveness.

The program continues to see strong adoption across key regions nationwide, bringing accessible financing closer to underserved communities. As of April 2026, LANDBANK has approved ₱2.25 billion in loans under the program, significantly bolstering the resilience and market readiness of local enterprises.

Promoted were Santi Frey Lorenzo and Karl Marlo Sanchez.

The ceremony was presided over by Police Regional Office-3 Director Police Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez.

Lorenzo is the deputy force commander of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 3. Sanchez heads the Complaint Referral Monitoring Center (CRMC)-Salaam under the Regional Community Affairs and Development Division (RCADD).

Mendez commended the newly promoted officers for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public service and emphasized that every promotion comes with greater responsibility and higher expectations.

“The promotion is a testament to your hard work, dedication, and faithful service to the organization. Along with this new rank comes a greater responsibility to serve as role models of integrity, professionalism, and excellence in public service,” Mendez said.

According to the PRO-3, their promotion recognized their years of dedicated service and reflects the police organization’s trust and confidence in their ability to assume greater leadership roles within the Philippine National Police.

Their promotion also highlighted the continuing commitment of the PNP to develop competent leaders who uphold the values of integrity, accountability, and service to the Filipino people.

Barangay Ginebra head coach Tim Cone expressed frustration over what he described as an unfair narrative surrounding the PBA Commissioner's Cup Finals, saying the Kings are often accused of benefiting from officiating whenever they win.

"I'm just getting really tired of the idea that when we win, it was always because we got favored by the referees and when they win it's always about great coaching and great play. It's a narrative that's getting really old," said the multi-titled coach after Ginebra absorbed a 98-90 loss to TNT in Game 6.

Cone's remarks appeared to be a response to TNT head coach Chot Reyes' repeated complaints about the officiating following the Tropang 5G's losses in the series.

Reyes first took a sarcastic swipe at the ‘excellent’ officiating after Game 3, claiming his team did not get the calls it deserved, before again pointing to the free-throw disparity following TNT's Game 5 defeat.

"It is starting to bother me a bit. It's unfair. I coached against Ginebra for 27 years and it just got to a point that it's crazy — it's referees for us, great coaching, great play for them," Cone said.

Despite his frustrations, Cone acknowledged that TNT simply outplayed Ginebra down the stretch of Game 6, highlighted by Chris McCullough's PBA career-high 54-point explosion. Ginebra, meanwhile, received little offensive support for Justin Brownlee, who finished with 52 points.

"But I'll be the first one to say that McCullough was awesome tonight. He hit shots that we couldn't control all game long. We challenged him from the outside and he made big shots. The last two shots — the three and the four — broke our backs," Cone said.

He also pointed to the struggles of his backcourt.

"Scottie and RJ were 2-of-18 from the field today. You're not gonna see that very often," he added.

Still, Cone remains confident Ginebra can bounce back in the winner-take-all Game 7. His only hope is that, should the Kings prevail, the result will not once again be attributed to the officiating.

"I just hope that when we do win they're not gonna turn around and say it's the referees again," Cone said.

Kai Havertz scored two goals as Germany pulled away from World Cup first-timer Curaçao and piled it on in a 7-1 win in group play. The smallest country to ever appear in the tournament hung tight at 1-1 until the 38th minute.

“We really needed this convincing win,” coach Julian Nagelsmann said. “We needed this self-confidence. It was there but it definitely grew.”

He said Sunday's display was important for the country's fans.

“We have to show them that we can perform and we have to have the confidence,” he said. “I think we’re in a better spot than we were entering this match.”

Livano Comenencia tied it at 1-1 with his left-footed shot through traffic from the center of the box in the 21st minute to give Curaçao its first goal in the tournament and send fans of the tiny Caribbean nation into a frenzy.

“Even though it wasn’t me, it felt like it was me, it was all of us, the whole island, everybody,” Curaçao's Jearl Margaritha said. “We screamed our lungs out. So we were happy.”

It was all Germany after that with the team regaining the lead on Nico Schlotterbeck’s header off Nathaniel Brown’s corner kick in the 38th.

“One team has very high expectations and the other one doesn’t and that’s a bit tricky,” Nagelsmann said.

The six-goal margin was well short of the World Cup record of nine, which has happened three times, most recently when Hungary beat El Salvador 10-1 in 1982. And the performance from the Germans was much more expected than the last time they won 7-1 in a World Cup, beating host Brazil in the 2014 semifinals.

Havertz connected on a penalty shot into the left goal in first-half stoppage time to make it 3-1. Germany was awarded the penalty shot after Felix Nmecha was tripped in the box by Riechedly Bazoer.

Germany wasted no time after halftime to extend the lead, with Jamal Musiala scoring on a right-footed shot across the goalkeeper’s area in the 47th minute.

Brown scored in the 68th minute to push the advantage to 5-1. The 22-year-old has an American father, but made it clear ahead of the World Cup he'd be representing the country in which he was born and raised by his mother.

Deniz Undav added a goal in the 78th minute. Havertz's second goal came in the 88th.

Germany is seeking redemption after failing to get out of the group stage in Russia and Qatar following its 2014 title.

“We are on the right path but of course there are things that we can do better and we will have stronger opponents,” Nagelsmann said.

Nmecha one-timed it with his right foot into the near post just inside the upper box with an assist from Florian Wirtz in the sixth minute to make it 1-0.

The crowd of 68,021 was overwhelmingly rooting for Germany but there was a spirited contingent of people cheering on Curaçao.

It was the first match of the tournament at NRG Stadium, home of the NFL's Houston Texans.

Manuel Neuer, the 40-year-old goalkeeper who came out of international retirement for the tournament, had one save in his first appearance for Germany in almost two years.

The match featured the largest age gap between coaches in World Cup history with Curaçao's 78-year-old coach, Dick Advocaat, becoming the oldest ever in the tournament against 38-year-old Nagelsmann, who is the youngest coach in this year’s tournament.

Germany faces Ivory Coast in its next match in Toronto on Saturday and Curaçao meets Ecuador Saturday in Kansas City, Missouri.

The New York Knicks will be feted with a championship parade through the streets of Manhattan on Thursday after a postseason in which they successfully rallied from six double-digit deficits to win games in the playoffs, including all four of their victories in the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs.

It continued the unprecedented run of NBA parity, with eight different franchises winning championships in the last eight seasons — Toronto in 2019, the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020, Milwaukee in 2021, Golden State in 2022, Denver in 2023, Boston in 2024, Oklahoma City last year and now New York.

“To me, it just really speaks to the state of NBA basketball and the state of the future of the game," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. "And now with this draft class coming in this year — again, not just the first pick, but a draft that’s considered the deepest in many years — there's so much talent everywhere. ... So, it’s a really bright future ahead for the league.”

It is, but every team is now chasing the Knicks. They had all the answers.

For 29 other franchises, at least on some levels, there seems to only be questions.

— Will Milwaukee really trade Giannis Antetokounmpo after 13 seasons, 10 All-Star selections, two Most Valuable Player awards and an NBA championship in 2021?

— Will LeBron James come back to the NBA for a 24th season? If so, will it be with the Los Angeles Lakers for a ninth year or will he look for a presumably final chapter elsewhere?

— What will Washington do with the No. 1 pick in the draft later this month?

— And who will coach in Chicago, Dallas and Portland?

Those are just some of the major issues facing teams around the league as summer gets underway. It's going to be hard for the Knicks to repeat, because it's hard for any team to repeat — as the Thunder found out this season.

“The history of the NBA is littered with teams that were not able to find ultimate success again,” Thunder general manager Sam Presti said. "I think there have only been three teams that have repeated since we’ve been in Oklahoma City, and the reasons for that are many, probably too many to list. But the fact is that it helps illustrate how rare and how special it is when you do have a chance to win at the highest level in this league or in professional sports in general.

"However, NBA history is also built on the backs of those teams that saw their losses as a continued quest for improvement and progress. Most importantly, they saw it as what competition boils down to, what it’s all about at any level of sports."

The Giannis question

Antetokounmpo, the biggest star in Milwaukee, will be eligible this fall for an extension that could be worth up to $275 million.

But the Bucks don't have a roster that's a championship contender. If they trade Antetokounmpo, they can essentially start over with what would be a slew of players and draft picks. If they keep him, there's no guarantee he'll be happy — because it seems like he's primarily interested now in trying to win more titles.

“I just think before the draft is a natural time, right, because if Giannis does play somewhere else we're going to get a lot of assets. ... You've got to get it right,” Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam said in May, when the team introduced new coach Taylor Jenkins — who was told that Antetokounmpo may or may not be with the franchise when next season starts.

The draft is next week. And logic would suggest that the Bucks — if they are going to trade Antetokounmpo — may do so at least a few days before the draft, so they have some specific idea of who to target with the capital that they'll get as part of whatever deal might go down.

Miami has been mentioned in the Giannis sweepstakes for months, and the Heat are involved in talks with the Bucks again.

LeBron watch

James has never gone into a summer with this much freedom.

He could stay with the Lakers. He could pick another spot. He could retire. He could demand a max salary. He could take less money to help a team out. Or he could just continue posting videos of chip-ins on Instagram; yes, James has the golf bug.

“When the time comes, you guys will know what I decide to do,” James said when the Lakers were eliminated this spring by Oklahoma City in a 4-0 sweep.

The Lakers have a lot of other decisions, including how to handle an extension for Austin Reaves. But getting some sense from James about his plans will surely go a long way toward having other moves fall into place.

The Spurs

Victor Wembanyama is eligible for a four-year extension that would top $250 million, and there's obviously no reason San Antonio wouldn't want to commit to keep the game's most fascinating player around. The extension would start in 2027-28.

There are some other roster spots to address, but the starters are under contract.

It will be interesting to watch how free agents view San Antonio as a destination, especially since the Spurs will go into next season as one of the favorites — if not the biggest one — for the 2027 NBA title.

“Competitiveness, that’s what makes you better,” Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said. “That’s what pushes you to continue to improve in the dark, long hours when nobody is around. We improved a whole lot this year. We have ... more motivation to continue to get better.”

Other top issues

— The NBA still hasn't revealed what, if anything, will come from an investigation by outside counsel into whether a $28 million endorsement contract between Kawhi Leonard and a California-based sustainability services company allowed the Los Angeles Clippers to circumvent league salary cap rules.

— Portland hasn't said who will coach next season, with interim coach Tiago Splitter still in the mix. Chicago and Dallas still have openings. It would seem advantageous to have coaches in place by the draft.

Under its medium-term plan, Aznar Shipping president and chief executive officer (CEO) Kyle Alexander Aznar said the company intends to develop its own shipyard facility to support its growing operations.

He noted that building a dedicated facility is the most cost-efficient move to comply with the government’s mandate requiring vessels to undergo dry-docking every two and a half years.

Currently, the company spends roughly ₱15 million on maintenance for each ship that undergoes dry-docking—an expense that quickly multiplies when up to four vessels are dry-docked around the same time.

“We're looking at that ecosystem,” Aznar told reporters. “Once we grow the fleet to a certain size, we will develop our own shipyard facility. We will become already our own market. For example, when we get the three new vessels, we'll be at 13 ships. [That means], on average, we'll have six ships being dry-docked in a year.”

From its current fleet of 10 vessels, Aznar Shipping plans to add three more within the next five years to meet rising cargo demand in the Visayas.

The new ships, to be manufactured in China, are expected to boost the company’s carrying capacity and enable new routes, including a linkage to Iloilo.

At present, the company operates roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) and landing craft vessels catering to both cargo and passenger demand across 10 ports in Cebu, Leyte, and Negros Occidental.

Aznar expects shipyard development to begin in about five years, shortly after the three additional vessels are acquired. The facility will likely be established in Cebu, where the company is based, or in nearby provinces like Negros Occidental or Leyte.

Once the shipyard achieves peak operational efficiency, Aznar said the company is open to offering its services to rival roro operators.

“We will cater eventually to the outside market. I think they need it, there's really a demand for it,” he said.

Despite higher fuel costs, Aznar Shipping is off to a strong start this year. First-quarter net income doubled to nearly ₱17 million, while revenues rose to ₱81 million compared to the same period last year. This follows a banner year in 2025, when net income reached ₱51 million on the back of ₱225 million in revenues.

Driven largely by sustained demand for cargo services—which account for 70 percent of total revenue—Aznar remains optimistic that the company can sustain its growth trajectory.

Growth this year will be further anchored by the deployment of its newest vessel, MV Alexander Aznar I, which was granted pioneer route status for the Danao, Cebu–Isabel, Leyte route by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).

The pioneer status grants Aznar Shipping six years of route protection. Under this incentive, no competing vessels may be authorized to operate between the same origin and destination ports unless there is a capacity shortage or a pressing economic need.

The MV Alexander Aznar I can carry up to 340 passengers per trip, alongside 14 ten-wheeler wing vans and 24 four-wheel vehicles.

Otherwise, the SC warned that lawyers who use “abusive, offensive, or improper language – whether spoken or written, including in social media – are subject to disciplinary sanctions.

In a decision written by Associate Justice Jhosep Y. Lopez, the SC found lawyer Jesus Nicardo M. Falcis III guilty of simple misconduct and suspended him from the practice of law for one year.

The SC stressed that lawyers must always act in a manner consistent with the high standards of conduct and morality expected of members of the Bar.

Citing the limits for free speech for lawyers, the SC declared: “While freedom of expression is guaranteed by the Constitution, the lawyer’s oath and their duties and responsibilities ultimately serve as a limit thereto. Notably, lawyers should be cautious in their postings online. They are reminded to always practice restraint in their conduct, be it in real life or in social media.”

In a summary of the decision, the SC’s Office of the Spokesperson said the case against Falcis arose from a Twitter (now X) post he made in defending his brother, Nicko, against the qualified theft complaint filed by television host and businesswoman Kris Aquino.

Targeting Aquino’s supporters, Falcis posted on Twitter: “Yung mga biased na dilawan dyan, halata kayo. Sa allegations ni Kris, paniwalang paniwala na kayo agad. Pero sa allegations namin na she threatened my brother, wala ako naririnig sa inyo? Pakyu kayo mga gago haha check your cognitive biases.”

Aquino’s former business partner Jason Gene H. Baltao filed a complaint against Falcis before the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) for conduct unbecoming of a lawyer.

In his defense, Falcis said that there are expressions used by Filipinos to express anger or frustration but not meant to defame. He also said, among other arguments, that lawyers are entitled to freedom of speech and expression.

The IBP found that Falcis violated the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA) by using offensive language and recommended a penalty of a fine and reprimand.

While the SC agreed with the IBP’s findings, it imposed on Falcis a heavier penalty of one year suspension from the practice of law.

The SC said that aside from mandating the use of dignified, gender-fair language, the CPRA mandates all lawyers to use dignified language both in their professional and personal dealings.

At the same time, it said that the CPRA requires lawyers to ensure that “their online posts -- whether public or shared within a limited audience -- uphold the dignity of the profession, protect it from disrepute, and maintain respect for the law.”

It added that the CPRA requires lawyers to understand the benefits, risks, and ethical implications of using social media.

However, the SC said that Falcis failed to meet these standards. While acknowledging his intent to defend his brother, the SC said he could have presented legal arguments and cited news reports about their cases.

“Instead, he used profanity to attack those he described as ‘dilawans,’ or Aquino’s supporters,” it also said.

It pointed out that Falcis should have understood the risks and consequences of his statements on social media, including how they can spread widely, reach all kinds of audiences, and influence both lawyers and non-lawyers, including children.

Thus, the SC ruled that Falcis’ actions amounted to misconduct, defined as intentional wrongdoing or a deliberate violation of a rule or standard of behavior, whether work-related or not. It is considered simple misconduct if there is no corruption or clear intent to violate the law, it said.

It added that it increased the penalty recommended by the IBP due to Falcis’ “prior administrative violations, including direct and indirect contempt, and the seriousness of his use of profane and offensive language.”

This remittance represents 75 percent of the fiscal year (FY) 2025 net earnings of the country’s first sovereign wealth fund manager, exceeding the 50 percent minimum required for government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs).

In a statement on Monday, June 15, the MIC noted that its board of directors specifically authorized the accelerated payout to provide the national government (NG) with immediate, critical resources to navigate the emergency. By surpassing the standard dividend requirement, MIC aims to give the state greater fiscal flexibility to address urgent national priorities.

“This remittance reflects MIC’s continued commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources and support for the NG’s priorities,” MIC President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rafael D. Consing, Jr. said.

“As the country responds to the challenges arising from the state of national energy emergency, MIC is working to contribute additional resources while continuing to pursue its mandate of generating sustainable returns for the Filipino people,” Consing added.

Despite the accelerated payout percentage, MIC’s latest remittance is down five percent from its previous dividend payment of ₱1.45 billion.

Under Republic Act (RA) No. 7656, or the Dividend Law, GOCCs are mandated to remit at least half of their annual net earnings as dividends to the national government. However, the Department of Finance (DOF) has actively urged state firms to raise their contributions to 75 percent to maximize non-tax revenues.

Dividends from state-run firms remain a vital pillar of non-tax revenue for the government, funding priority programs and capital expenditure without necessitating new tax measures.

Last year, total GOCC remittances reached ₱114.6 billion, down from a record-high ₱138.5 billion in 2024. This contraction was primarily driven by a sharp decline in contributions from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), which had heavily anchored state collections for two consecutive years.

Meanwhile, state coffers have received a significant liquidity injection during the opening months of the year. Rebounding from its 2025 slump, the BSP remitted a record ₱59 billion in the first two months alone. (Derco Rosal)

The local bourse is preparing to release a series of proposed amendments to its ETF framework for public consultation. Under the draft rules, the baseline capitalization requirement for issuers will drop to ₱50 million.

The exchange will allow an even lower floor of ₱1 million for investment firms that boast at least a five-year track record.

Under the revised rules, Collective Investment Schemes—including umbrella funds and Unit Investment Trust Funds (UITFs)—may now list multiple sub-funds under a single ETF issuer. The Exchange will also accept the listing of different types of securities, such as fund units, in addition to traditional shares of an ETF company. Actively managed ETFs will likewise be allowed to list.

Furthermore, the market maker for an ETF will no longer need to be an Authorized Participant (AP) under the proposed amendments. The revised rules will also allow ETF issuers to appoint just one AP to handle the creation and redemption of ETF shares or units. Additionally, the amendments introduce clearer guidelines for ETFs with underlying indices that track foreign exchange-listed securities.

“We are working on reviving our ETF market and we hope these rule changes will provide the impetus for asset managers to structure and list ETFs,” said PSE President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon.

The PSE is also developing new rules for a Negotiated Trade Reporting Facility, which will allow brokers to execute trades similarly to negotiable trading facilities on other global exchanges. This facility aims to boost market liquidity by ensuring a more efficient flow of funds. Both the ETF and Negotiated Trade Reporting Facility rules will be released to the public for consultation.

An ETF is a pooled investment vehicle that holds a basket of securities and trades on a stock exchange just like an individual company's stock. By buying shares of an ETF, investors gain fractional ownership of all the underlying assets held by the fund.

Unlike mutual funds, which are priced only once at the end of the trading day, ETFs can be bought and sold throughout the day at fluctuating market prices. Most ETFs are passively managed, designed to mirror the performance of a specific financial benchmark (such as the PSEi or a sub-index) rather than trying to beat the market.

Meanwhile, the PSE and its wholly owned subsidiary, the Philippine Depository and Trust Corp. (PDTC), are collaborating with multiple stakeholders to amend the PSE's Securities Borrowing and Lending (SBL) rules. The changes will allow the execution of directed pooled lending (i.e., bilateral SBL where the lender and borrower are identified) through the PDTC’s SBL facility.

This new SBL model is expected to make it easier for foreign institutions to participate in the domestic SBL market. The PSE submitted the amended SBL rules incorporating directed pooled lending to the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 16, 2026.

The PSE and PDTC are likewise engaging with pension funds, index funds, and insurance companies to encourage them to participate in the PDTC’s Lending Agency Service and populate the lending pool.

This was revealed by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) during a press conference on Monday, June 15, where updates on the aftermath of the powerful temblor that shook Mindanao last June 8 were provided by concerned government agencies.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB), the seismic shaking from the main shock in Maasim, Sarangani has left mountain slopes highly unstable, setting the stage for a secondary disaster as rain begins to fall.

“The earthquake on June 8 caused instability in mountain slopes. Because the slopes are already unstable, when it rains, it can trigger larger landslides,” said DENR-MGB senior geologist Dr. Kevin Garas. He warned that the disaster is transitioning from earthquake-induced landslides into rain-induced landslides, creating high-risk blockages in local waterways.

“The landslide debris went into the river and cut off the channels [of water]. That cutoff produced an artificial dam,” Garas explained. “When it rains, the water level can rise. If the dam breaches, it can cause flooding, flash floods, or even debris flow in adjacent municipalities along that river channel and downstream communities.”

To prevent a catastrophic breach, the MGB and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) are utilizing aerial surveys and ground assessments to locate these landslide dams and map out potential flash flood scenarios, ensuring that vulnerable communities are warned well in advance so they can evacuate.

736K individuals affected, 65 dead, 36 missing, thousands hurt

The emerging environmental threat complicates an already massive humanitarian crisis as the OCD reported that the powerful earthquake has affected 176,186 families or 736,386 individuals across 512 barangays across four regions: Zamboanga Peninsula (Region 9), Davao (Region 11), Soccsksargen (Region 12), and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The death toll has reached 65 individuals, with 57 fatalities recorded in Region 12 and eight in Region 11. Additionally, 1,447 people were injured, and 36 remain missing.

Damage to infrastructure reached P1.13 billion, with 728 public and private infrastructures damaged—prompting 14 local government units to declare a state of calamity.

The search for the missing has taken a grim turn in the hardest-hit zones, particularly in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental where 18 people remain unaccounted for after entire hillsides collapsed.

“Bulk of the reported missing are from Jose Abad Santos due to landslide. We have one barangay (Patulang) where 10 people were reported missing, seven of those are from a single household that was buried by a landslide,” said OCD Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV.

Alejandro, who visited the site, confirmed that rescue teams in one specific area had to call off operations because an entire mountain had collapsed, rendering heavy machinery useless and manual digging impossible. Resources have since been channeled to relief operations.

“We are trying hard to recover the bodies. We’re working with the LGUs, the mayors there, and if there is a need to continue digging, we will continue,” Alejandro said, confirming there are currently no signs of life among those buried.

He noted that the majority of the 65 fatalities died due to earthquake-induced landslides, while others in General Santos City, Glan (Sarangani), and Jose Abad Santos lost their lives due to falling debris.

Search, rescue, and retrieval ongoing

Down on the ground, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) mobilized 43 search, rescue, and retrieval (SRR) teams comprised of 546 personnel and deployed 33 land assets and six aircraft for humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations.

An additional 183 SRR teams, 1,478 personnel, 213 land assets, three air assets, and seven naval assets remain on standby.

“All hands on deck here. As long as needed, the entire AFP is willing to augment these operations being conducted,” Padilla said.

Learners affected

The OCD said that the structural damage extended heavily to the education sector, where schools have been destroyed or rendered unsafe, disrupting classes for thousands of students. The earthquake occurred on the first day of classes in many public schools in Mindanao.

“We’re working with DepEd [Department of Education]. We are fast-tracking the repairs of totally destroyed and partially damaged school buildings. At the same time, we are helping DepEd facilitate the establishment of temporary learning facilities to replace classrooms. They are adjusting schedules and modes of delivery of classes in areas that are really affected,” Alejandro said.

Shaking continues

Meanwhile, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Director Teresito Bacolcol reported that seismologists have logged 6,144 aftershocks since the initial disaster. Of these, 78 were strong enough to be felt by residents, with the largest peaking at a magnitude 6.4 tremor that struck hours after the main June 8 shock.

A total of 57,252 houses were damaged across the affected regions — 47,229 partially and 10,023 totally destroyed.

According to DSWD Disaster Response Management Bureau Director Maria Isabel Lanada, families who initially sought shelter outside evacuation centers (ECs) with relatives or in makeshift shanties are now flooding into formal government camps.

“Those outside ECs who were staying with friends and relatives or made makeshift shanties are returning and going to evacuation centers. The intervention of the local government is good, and those outside prefer to stay inside because of the complete facilities and the food and non-food items we distributed,” she said.

To date, 3,180 families or 14,161 persons were being sheltered inside 37 evacuation centers while 14,687 families or 59,013 persons were receiving aid outside the centers.

The DSWD has already distributed 125,242 family food packs, 7,428 ready-to-eat meals, and 6,990 non-food items to affected communities. Through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, the agency has also released P36,675,000 in direct financial aid to affected families, focusing on those hospitalized or grieving the deceased. The total DSWD assistance cost has reached P124,946,118.48.

Recovery on the way

OCD Administrator Usec. Harold Cabreros emphasized that rehabilitation will require prolonged and unified action from all government agencies.

“The government is addressing all the needs of our victims, especially those in affected areas. It’s a whole-of-society approach,” Cabreros said. “We also recognize the assistance and support from civil society organizations, NGOs, and even international organizations. This disaster is being addressed collectively to help our countrymen, and our assistance will continue until the condition of the earthquake victims normalizes.”

The Aspin Academy Corp. has been suffering for years from the problem that is critical for the daily care of more than 70 dogs rescued from various areas in Region 4-A or the Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon region.

Aspin Academy said they have been repeatedly asking for help and trying to raise funds to build a deep well that will serve as a long-term solution.

But not even five percent of the required budget has been raised, they said.

Aspin Academy added that they approached the local government several times but their appeal has not been granted.

Despite this, Aspin Academy said their mission to find permanent homes for the dogs remains.

Their rescues have been open for adoption from the beginning, and it is not their intention to keep them in the shelter forever, they said.

They appealed to the public to adopt, donate, volunteer, and share their appeal.

The SEC has published the draft memorandum circular for the Mandatory Use of the Online Application for Registration Statements (OARS) for public comment, running concurrently with a period for user acceptance testing.

OARS is a web-based platform that enables companies to electronically submit registration statements and other required filings. The platform will initially accept applications for the registration of securities through direct public offerings, follow-on offerings, initial public offerings, and first-tranche shelf registrations.

It will also accept applications under specialized registration programs of the SEC, such as Securing & Expanding Capital for Real Estate Non-Traditional Securities (SEC RENT) and Securing & Expanding Capital for PowerGen Operators & Wholesale of Electricity & Retail Services (SEC POWERS).

OARS also facilitates the generation of International Securities Identification Numbers (ISINs), Classification of Financial Instruments (CFIs), and Financial Instrument Short Names (FISNs) in compliance with the standards of the Association of National Numbering Agencies (ANNA).

“The implementation of OARS reflects our continued strategic shift toward a paperless and data-driven regulatory environment,” SEC Chairman Francis Lim said.

He added, “By improving accessibility to the application process and removing bureaucratic roadblocks, we are making it easier for more issuers to enter the market, supporting our broader efforts to revitalize capital market activity in the Philippines.” (James A. Loyola)

President Marcos will travel to Kazan, Russia, next week for his first meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and to co-chair the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit marking the 35th anniversary of dialogue relations between the regional bloc and Moscow.

The June 17-18 summit will bring together Association of Southeast Asian Nations leaders and Russia to review progress on their strategic partnership and chart its future direction, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) ASEAN 2026 Philippines Spokesperson Dominic Xavier Imperial.

As ASEAN Chair, Marcos will co-chair the summit alongside Putin.

The summit holds particular significance for the Philippines as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Manila and Moscow this year and marks Marcos' first visit to Russia since assuming office.

Bilateral meeting with Putin

On the sidelines of the summit, Marcos and Putin are expected to hold a bilateral meeting centered on energy security and food security, which the DFA said are mutually important to both countries.

Imperial said the two leaders are also expected to discuss regional and international issues, as well as ways to deepen cooperation in tourism, education, culture, science and technology, and people-to-people exchanges.

“The meeting will most likely focus on food security and energy security. That is mutually important for both countries, for the Philippines and Russia,” he said in a pre-departure press briefing in Malacañan on Monday, June 15.

The DFA official added that the ongoing tensions in the Middle East and their implications on global energy and food supplies are also expected to figure prominently in the discussions.

Imperial said discussions on energy security could cover several areas, including oil, natural gas, and cooperation on nuclear energy, including civilian applications of nuclear technology.

He said support for existing regional mechanisms, such as the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security and the ASEAN Power Grid, could also be discussed.

Asked whether the Philippines could explore importation deals with Russia as it seeks to diversify oil sources amid concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, Imperial said he could not give a definitive answer but noted that such discussions could arise during the summit and bilateral meeting.

“Anything can be discussed under that area or agenda during the meeting of the two leaders,” he said.

ASEAN-Russia roadmap

Meanwhile, the commemorative summit is expected to adopt several key documents that will guide ASEAN-Russia relations in the coming years.

These include the Kazan Declaration 2026, joint statements on energy and cultural cooperation, and the ASEAN-Russia Comprehensive Plan of Action 2026-2030, which will serve as the principal roadmap for cooperation in the political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars of the partnership.

ASEAN and Russia are also expected to discuss cooperation in biosafety and biosecurity, outer space and satellite applications, trade and investment, tourism, education, and people-to-people exchanges.

No Ukraine declaration

Despite the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the DFA official said no statement or declaration on the conflict is expected to emerge from the summit.

Imperial said the outcome documents would instead focus on areas of cooperation between ASEAN and Russia.

He, however, noted that leaders could still discuss regional and international issues during their closed-door meetings.

Why Russia matters

Imperial explained Manila’s continued engagement with Moscow despite sanctions imposed by some countries, including Singapore, against certain Russian sectors.

He stressed that Russia has long been an ASEAN dialogue partner and that the Philippines, as ASEAN Chair, has the responsibility to pursue and strengthen the bloc's external relations.

He said the Philippines and the region stand to benefit from cooperation with Russia in areas such as counterterrorism, transnational crime, climate change, health, disaster management, and capacity building for law enforcement agencies.

The official also pointed to growing tourism and people-to-people exchanges, noting that the Philippines recorded more than 30,000 Russian visitors in 2024, the highest number on record.

He added that around 15,000 Filipinos currently reside in Russia, including workers in the service sector as well as engineers, teachers, professors, students, researchers, and artists.

Small delegation

President Marcos will be accompanied by Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and a small delegation from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) due to the summit's focus on economic engagement and trade.

The President's schedule in Kazan includes the ASEAN-Russia plenary session, a working lunch, a business forum, a bilateral meeting with Putin, a gala dinner for leaders, and a joint press conference.

The summit will also be the first in-person engagement between ASEAN and Russia at the leaders' level since a special virtual meeting during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has given Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte five days to explain recent waste-dumping incidents outside its Region XI office, while separately filing a criminal complaint against the owner of a vehicle allegedly used to dump mixed waste at the site.

In a statement, the DENR said Mayor Duterte has been given five days to respond to the agency’s letter, copies of which were also furnished to senior DENR officials and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Regional Executive Director Mercedes Dumagan, in a June 15 letter, asked the mayor to explain the incidents after DENR personnel intercepted several individuals dumping mixed waste outside the agency’s Lanang office. The DENR said some of those apprehended referred to the mayor’s June 4 Facebook post describing the compound as a temporary waste collection point.

According to the DENR, the waste dumped at the site appeared to include commercial refuse and was found to be unsegregated, contrary to the provisions of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.

“We are clarifying how these incidents came about and reiterating the importance of proper waste handling and compliance with established procedures,” she said in a statement.

She stressed that the identification of waste collection areas must be undertaken in accordance with the city’s approved Solid Waste Management Plan and the IRR of RA 9003.

“Our goal is to ensure that waste collection areas are properly designated and consistent with the city’s plan,” Dumagan stated.

The DENR said it is also coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to identify other trucks and vehicles seen in the area during the reported dumping incidents.

Dumagan also initiated a separate complaint after a Mitsubishi Xpander was seen on CCTV footage unloading sacks of mixed waste at the DENR office.

“We are addressing individual incidents as well, including the vehicle seen on video. These steps help ensure accountability while the city continues to manage the impacts of the landfill suspension,” she added.

The landfill has been temporarily closed since the May 20 trash-slide incident that left several people dead. The DENR said the complaint and the request for clarification are part of ongoing efforts to ensure orderly waste management as the city continues to deal with the impact of the closure.

“The answer my friend,” Dylan crooned, “is blowin’ in the wind. The answer is blowin’ in the wind.”

June 15, the global community commemorates Global Wind Day, an event dedicated to raise awareness of wind energy and its potential to transform energy systems while reducing carbon emissions. This observance is organized by WindEurope and the Global Wind Energy Council through activities and events in countries around the world.

“Across the developing world, countries are beginning to see the way the wind is blowing,” said Klaus Toepfer, former executive director of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). “Once it was believed that only one percent of their area was suitable for wind power.”

Not anymore.

“The serious development of wind power in modern times began in 1973 after the oil crisis shook the confidence of the developed world that oil was there for the asking. Today, wind power is one of the fastest-growing energy sources and the potential is enormous,” noted Dr. Leon Freris, visiting professor of renewable energy at the Centre for Renewable Energy Systems Technology of Loughborough University in England.

Wind power is among the fastest-growing renewable energy sources worldwide. According to the World Wind Energy Association (WWEA), it now generates enough electricity to meet more than 11 percent of global demand.

It is also the world’s third-largest source of carbon-free electricity after hydropower and nuclear energy, making it a major contributor to efforts to mitigate climate change.

Last year marked a milestone for the global wind industry. Preliminary WWEA data showed that 169,014 megawatts (MW) of new wind capacity were installed worldwide, a 35 percent increase from 2024, bringing total global capacity to 1,346,866 MW.

The growth was driven largely by China, which accounted for 77 percent of new installations after adding 130 Gigawatts (GW) in a single year. China now holds more than half of the world’s total installed wind capacity.

Today, more than 138 countries generate electricity from wind power. Aside from China, the leading countries in installed wind capacity are the United States, Germany, India, and Brazil.

In the Philippines, some experts are advocating the development of the country’s wind power resources. At present, the majority of the electricity produced in the country is derived from fossil fuels. Specifically, approximately 70 percent is generated from coal, while a substantial portion is sourced from imported oil-based fuels, both of which are subject to fluctuating prices in the global market.

“With fossil-fuel prices continually rising due to dwindling supplies and soaring demand, the cost of our electricity shall rise even further. The best solution is to use existing renewable energy resources to shield us from the cost volatility of fossil fuels,” said Atty. Angela Consuelo Ibay, climate change head of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in the Philippines.

The WWF supports the use of clean and renewable energy sources. Among the few competitive advantages the country possesses, given its lack of significant fossil fuel deposits, are geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar energy.

“Wind energy in the Philippines offers a clean, abundant, and economically viable solution for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and driving sustainable development,” wrote Princess Catherine Pabellano for billionbricks.org.

According to Pabellano, the country’s most important geographic advantage for wind energy is its location.

“The country is located in the western Pacific Ocean, where the prevailing winds are strong and consistent,” she wrote. “This makes the Philippines a prime location for wind turbines, which can generate electricity from the wind’s kinetic energy.”

Another advantage is the country’s terrain.

“The country has a diverse terrain, including mountains, hills, and coastal areas,” she explained. “These different elevations create wind patterns that are ideal for wind energy generation.”

The surrounding waters—the South China Sea, Philippine Sea, and Celebes Sea—also generate strong winds that can be harnessed by wind turbines.

The Philippines consists of over 7,000 islands. Currently, wind power accounts for only a small share of the country's overall energy production.

Onshore wind farms include the Burgos Wind Farm located in Ilocos Norte, the Caparispisan Wind Farm in Pagudpod, Ilocos Norte, the Pililla Wind Farm in Rizal, and the San Lorenzo Wind Farm situated in Guimaras.

According to the WWF, there are more than 1,000 wind sites in the northern and central regions of the Philippines, with a potential capacity of at least 7,400 MW—sufficient to supply energy to 19 million households.

“Wind is the movement of air from an area of high pressure to an area of low pressure,” National Geographic explains. “In fact, wind exists because the sun unevenly heats the surface of the Earth. As hot air rises, cooler air moves in to fill the void. As long as the sun shines, the wind will blow. And as long as the wind blows, people will harness it to power their lives.”

Nowadays, many people recognize wind power as “ one of the most promising new energy sources” that can serve as an alternative to electricity generated from fossil fuels.

Wind power involves transforming wind energy into usable energy, such as generating electricity through wind turbines, using windmills for mechanical energy, employing wind pumps for water drainage or pumping, or using sails to propel ships.

The Dutch contributed significantly to the advancements of the windmill, mainly for the purpose of removing excess water from flooded land. The windmill underwent further improvements in the late 19th century in the United States, and several designs from that era remain operational today.

The first large windmill designed to generate electricity was the “American multi-blade design,” built in 1888. Its 12-kilowatt capacity was later surpassed by modern 70– to 100-kilowatt wind turbines.

“Wind turbines for electricity generation are essentially simple devices, though their design requires a deep understanding of the properties of wind, aerodynamics, as well as mechanical and electrical engineering,” explains Dr. Freris.

The kinetic energy in the wind is intercepted by two or three rotating, slender blades. These blades extract energy from the wind by slowing it down. This extracted energy first appears as mechanical energy on the turbine shaft and then as electrical energy from a generator coupled to the shaft through a gearbox.

“The power in the wind is proportional to the cube of the wind speed, hence doubling of the wind speed results in an eight-fold increase in electrical power generated,” Dr. Freris explained. “Wind turbines are designed to stop if the wind speed becomes excessive and do not rotate if the wind speed is too low for useful energy extraction.”

Wind turbines are usually grouped in wind farms consisting of few to as many as 100 machines. By installing several machines on a site, the costs of connection to the electricity grid, as well as operation and maintenance expenses, are reduced.

Wind energy is environmentally-friendly.

“Wind energy can help protect the environment by reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions,” Pabellano wrote.

But of course, wind power should not be the only source of electricity. Generally, hydroelectricity complements wind power very well. When the wind is blowing strongly, nearby hydroelectric plants can temporarily hold back water. When the wind drops, they can rapidly increase production again, providing a more stable power supply.

The answer is not only blowing in the wind; the future may well depend on it. As singer Peter Frampton wrote: “The future’s in the air, I can feel it everywhere; blowing with the wind of change…”

Several areas in Manila will face temporary water service interruptions next week as Maynilad Water Services Inc. conducts scheduled maintenance works.

In an advisory, Maynilad said the activities aim to keep its water distribution system in the West Zone safe and reliable and are scheduled during off peak hours to limit disruption.

Affected are Barangays 51, 603, 605, 610 to 612, and 614 to 616, which will have no water from 10 a.m. on June 15 to 3 p.m. on June 16 due to network maintenance at Magistrado Arellano corner Magistrado Mapa.

Barangays 124 to 146 and 177 will experience interruption from 10 p.m. of June 15 to 6 a.m. of June 16 for network diagnostic and leak localization works along Honorio Lopez Boulevard.

A wider group of areas including Barangays 1 to 10, 36, 39, 40, 50 to 65, 74 to 84, 86 to 93, 124, 128 to 153, 163, 168 to 172, 177 to 197, 221, 222, 229 to 233, 313, 314, 329, 330, 335, 356 to 382, 492 to 497, and 500 will have daily interruptions from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. from June 14 to 21 covering parts of Rizal Avenue, Moriones Street, Santa Cruz, and Tondo.

Meanwhile, Barangays 98 to 101, 105, and 106 will be affected from 10 p.m. of June 17 to 6 a.m. of June 18 due to similar works along C3 Road.

Maynilad advised residents to store enough water ahead of the scheduled interruptions and to let water run briefly once service resumes until it clears.

The company said its operations are monitored and regulated by the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Regulatory Office.

PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel Servando noted that El Niño conditions are already present in the tropical Pacific and are expected to fully develop within the June to August period based on current monitoring and model forecasts.

He said projections show that the phenomenon may develop into a “strong to very strong” event later in the year and persist into early 2027.

“Alam naman po natin na strong El Niño can bring below-normal rainfall, prolonged dry conditions, water shortages, and adverse impacts on key sectors particularly agriculture, energy, and health (We already know that a strong El Niño can bring below-normal rainfall, prolonged dry conditions, water shortages, and adverse impacts on key sectors particularly agriculture, energy, and health),” he said during a press conference in observance of the Flood Awareness Week on Monday, June 15.

“While these impacts may still be months away, the time to prepare is now,” he said.

Servando said the advisory is meant to support early action by concerned sectors, and “not to cause alarm.”

He pointed out that early preparation can help reduce potential losses and support protection of communities and livelihoods.

“Experience has shown that communities, local governments, and sectors that prepare early are better able to reduce losses and protect lives and livelihoods,” he said.

‘Very strong’ El Niño

Ana Liza Solis of the PAGASA Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section said El Niño conditions in the tropical Pacific are now considered highly certain, with monitoring focused on its possible strength, duration, and areas of impact.

“Nakikita natin na halos 98, 100 percent sure na sure po tayo na nandiyan po yung El Niño. Ang minomonitor [na] po natin is yung ano ‘yung posibleng maging strength nito. Kailan to magtatagal at ano-ano po ‘yung mga areas na posibleng maapektuhan nito (We are now almost 98 to 100 percent sure that El Niño is present. What we are monitoring is its possible strength, how long it will last, and which areas may be affected),” Solis said.

PAGASA issued its first El Niño Advisory on June 9 to support the government's strategic action plan and guide preparedness measures by key sectors under the Task Force El Niño.

Solis said current outlooks show an increasing chance of a strong El Niño developing around September to November, with sea surface temperatures continuing to rise from weak to moderate and potentially strong conditions.

She added that some models are now indicating a higher likelihood of a very strong El Niño by October to December to January, ranging from about 30 to 37 percent—higher than historical averages.

Explaining the expected warming, she said ocean temperatures could rise beyond 1.9 degrees Celsius.

“Mas umiinit po ‘yung temperatura ng dagat. That could start as a weak, moderate, and then becoming strong. Ibig sabihin po up to 1.9 degree centigrade ‘yung pag-init niya (The ocean temperature continues to warm. It can start weak, then moderate, and become strong, with warming of up to 1.9 degrees Celsius),” she said.

Solis further described a possible very strong El Niño as an extreme warming scenario, likening its intensity to a severe physiological reaction.

“So kumbaga po sa ating lagnat ay possible na ito ‘yung kumbulsyon, na nagkukumbulsyon ang ating dagat at sobrang init na po na more than 2 degrees yung prine-predict po natin sa pag-init (It can be compared to a fever reaching convulsions, where the ocean is extremely warm, potentially beyond 2 degrees of warming),” she said.

READ MORE:

mb.com.ph/2026/06/01/prolonged-impacts-possible-if-very-strong-el-nino-develops-pagasa-warns

For many actors, landing a memorable role is already a career milestone. For Ruben Maria Soriquez, however, the journey has been about constantly reinventing himself, actor, filmmaker, musician, and now, once again, an internationally recognized performer.

The Filipino-Italian actor is celebrating another major achievement after winning the Award of Excellence in Acting at the 22nd Accolade Global Competition in the United States for his performance in the sci-fi horror film "The Mariana's Web," a project he also co-wrote.

In the film, Soriquez portrays Fosco, a reclusive farmer whose quiet existence is turned upside down when a mysterious woman unexpectedly enters his life.

While grateful for the recognition, Soriquez knows just how difficult it is for independent films to break through on the international stage.

"It takes a lot to gain entry," he said. "At the very least, you need to know some people willing to back your work. If not, you need lots of money."

The latest award is far from his first taste of international acclaim.

He previously won Best Actor at the World Premieres Film Festival in 2015 and earned acting honors from film organizations in the United States, India, and Indonesia for his performance in "Of Sinners and Saints."

Soriquez is currently busy filming "A Secret In Prague," where he reunites with former "Dolce Amore" co-star Enrique Gil, who also serves as producer of the project.

"It's so nice to work with Enrique again," he shared. "Our work is light and easy, very chill."

Many still remember Soriquez best as Papa Roberto Marchesa, the warm and playful adoptive father of Liza Soberano's character in "Dolce Amore." The role endeared him to Filipino audiences and cemented his place in local showbiz.

But long before becoming a familiar face on Philippine television, Soriquez had already built a steady career overseas, appearing in international productions alongside some of Hollywood's biggest names. Among them was "The Last Resort," where he starred with Daisy Ridley and Sam Neill. In 2019, he also appeared in "General Commander" with Steven Seagal.

Despite his success in front of the camera, Soriquez admits he misses directing.

"I love acting, but it has been some time since I sat on the director's chair," he said. "I want to do some directing again. I hope it happens pretty soon."

There have been discussions about future directing projects, but nothing has been finalized. One challenge is his unique lifestyle, frequently traveling between the Philippines and Italy, where his family remains based.

"I would want them to be here, but my children are already in school and the transition would be very difficult for us," he explained.

Beyond acting and filmmaking, Soriquez continues to nurture another lifelong passion: music.

In recent years, he has devoted more time to recording and releasing original music, producing pop, rock, and Latin-inspired tracks on major streaming platforms.

"I actually started as a musician before transitioning to acting and filmmaking," he said.

Whether he's acting, directing, producing, or making music, Soriquez proves that creative reinvention has become his trademark. And with another international trophy now on his shelf, it appears his story is far from reaching its final act.

“With the May inflation print stabilising at 6.8 percent year-on-year following the surge to 7.2 percent in April, we suspect the more dovish members of the MB will argue in favor of restraint and hold the policy rate back from being hiked by a larger 50 basis points (bps),” Barclays wrote in a June 15 commentary.

This less hawkish outlook also banks on de-escalating tensions between the United States (US) and Iran, following nearly four months of military hostilities that choked the critical Strait of Hormuz.

“It is the central banks in Indonesia and the Philippines that have been hiking rates not because of economic growth but because of foreign exchange (forex) and inflation, respectively—and are more likely to look for opportunities to pivot if there is a more significant de-escalation in the Middle East conflict,” Barclays noted.

Barclays analysts expect the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to raise key borrowing costs by 25 bps to 4.75 percent from the current 4.5 percent during its policy meeting on Thursday, a move meant to further calm lingering price pressures.

Beyond this measured hike, the British lender anticipates that the BSP will conclude its inflation-targeting cycle and transition to monetary easing in 2027 to support the domestic economy, which has been in a slump since late 2025.

Barclays noted that while output gaps throughout emerging Asia improved in the first quarter, the Philippines and Malaysia were the exceptions, adding that “it is really only in the Philippines where we believe the growth malaise is real but unsurprising.” Domestic gross domestic product (GDP) growth hit a five-year low of 2.8 percent in the first quarter.

Think tank Moody’s Analytics also predicted that the BSP will tighten monetary policy on Thursday to pull inflation back into its two-to-four percent target band. The BSP recently raised its official headline inflation forecast to an average of 6.3 percent this year, far exceeding the target ceiling.

Singapore-based UOB has likewise pencilled in a quarter-point hike on Thursday, citing the broader impact of imported inflation. Aside from May's above-target headline numbers, UOB economist Jasrine Loke noted that core inflation has breached the target threshold for the first time since December 2023.

“This points to increasingly entrenched underlying price pressures and mounting second-round effects, thereby reinforcing the case for further monetary tightening,” Loke said.

Japanese financial giant MUFG Bank Ltd. took a similarly hawkish stance. Apart from inflation, the lender cited the need to anchor the local currency against the greenback.

“In the Philippines, the policy bias is also toward further tightening, as the BSP seeks to counter inflation pressures and support the peso,” MUFG said, noting that while inflation has eased, it remains stubbornly above target.

Police said that the person behind these will face appropriate criminal charges.

“Kakasuhan ang dapat kakasuhan at ipapakulong ang dapat ikulong (Charges will be filed and those responsible will be imprisoned),” said Police Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño, Police Regional Office-6 chief, on Monday, June 15.

On Sunday, Facebook account “Djbobzkie Montero” sent a message to the Iloilo City government’s Facebook page that a bomb was planted at the Iloilo City Hall and Iloilo Provincial Capitol.

The Iloilo City Police Office-City Explosives and Canine Unit (ICPO-CECU) found no bombs during an inspection.

ICPO police chief Police Col. Wilbert Parilla said they are coordinating with the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit-6 to identify the account that sent the bomb threat.

Parilla said they have yet to ascertain the suspect’s motive but reiterated that the act is a serious criminal offense.

“False threats create fear, disrupt government operations, and waste valuable government resources. The ICPO will pursue appropriate legal action against individuals who endanger public safety through irresponsible online posts, as the evidence warrants,” Parilla said.

The Valenzuela City government has deployed a 25-man Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) team to Sarangani Province to assist residents affected by severe flooding.

The HADR Team, under the leadership of Mayor Wes Gatchalian, was reported to be in the vicinity of Sarangani as of 10:40 a.m. on Monday, continuing its ground convoy toward its designated deployment area.

The convoy is carrying essential response assets, including a water filtration system, mobile shower unit, ambulances, generator sets, a rescue vehicle, and a Starlink satellite communication system.

Flash floods hit the towns of Maasim and Maitum in Sarangani on June 13, following days of continuous heavy rains, days after the area was affected by a 7.8-magnitude earthquake, according to reports.

Local officials said the deployment aims to ensure the continuous delivery of essential services, particularly in remote and hard-to-reach areas affected by the flooding.

Authorities added that the team remains in close coordination as it has entered Sarangani Province, with all equipment ready for immediate humanitarian deployment upon arrival at the assigned operational sites.

The launch was introduced through Cine Mo ‘To, a media and consumer event held on June 11 at the Enderun Tent, bringing together partners, creators, subscribers, and members of the media for a first look at the new offering.

Headlining the portfolio is StreamZone199, which includes 11GB of all-access data, 11GB of dedicated streaming data, unlimited calls and texts to all networks, data rollover benefits, and complimentary 30-day access to Prime Video Mobile, iWant, and BLAST TV. The offer also supports streaming across popular platforms including Netflix, VivaMax, Viva One, DashFlix, and iQIYI.

The launch reflects the growing role of streaming in everyday digital consumption, as more Filipinos turn to mobile devices not only for entertainment, but also to participate in the conversations, communities, and shared experiences that increasingly shape modern culture. As digital engagement continues to expand, access to content has become an increasingly important part of how people connect, learn, and participate online.

“Nation-building today requires meaningful digital inclusion,” said Atty. Adel Tamano, Chief Commercial Officer of DITO Telecommunity. “As more aspects of everyday life move online, access to content and digital experiences has become an important part of how people learn, engage, and connect with one another.

At DITO, we see connectivity as the foundation of a broader digital ecosystem. StreamZone brings together connectivity, content, and digital services to create greater value for consumers, making it easier for more Filipinos to participate in the communities, experiences, and opportunities that shape modern digital life.”

The introduction of StreamZone forms part of DITO’s broader effort to evolve its prepaid portfolio around the digital interests and lifestyles of its subscribers. By combining connectivity with access to entertainment platforms and content-driven experiences, the company aims to deliver greater value beyond traditional mobile data offers.

Through StreamZone, DITO continues to strengthen its position in the digital entertainment space, providing subscribers with more ways to discover, access, and enjoy the content that has become an increasingly important part of everyday life.

EVIAN-LES-Bains, France (AP) — President Donald Trump is heading to the French Alps on Monday to meet with fellow world leaders at the Group of Seven summit after announcing an agreement that he says will bring an end to the U.S. war against Iran.

Trump and Iranian officials had been saying for days they were making progress toward reaching a deal, but even on Sunday, things appeared to be on shaky ground after a new round of strikes between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon.

With the agreement, Trump is due to arrive in Evian-les-Bains on Monday afternoon with some wind at his back for talks with G7 leaders, including some who have been sharply critical of his managing of the roughly 15-week conflict that has led to a surge in global energy prices.

The conflict, which polls show American voters largely disapproved of, had made some Republicans nervous about the political impacts it could have on the November midterm election.

“Ships of the World, start your engines," Trump said in a social media post celebrating the deal that he said would lead to the U.S. ending its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s crude had flowed before the conflict. “Let the oil flow!”

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, however, said the Iranian closure of the strait would continue until the agreement is officially signed.

Neither the White House nor Iran published the final agreement or revealed many details. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whose country served as a mediator in the negotiations, said there would be “pre-implementation discussions” this week to lay the ground for 60 days of technical talks on Iran's nuclear program.

The deal could change the G7 dynamic

Sealing an agreement before jetting off to the summit could certainly change the dynamic of the gathering for Trump. He has had friction with French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over failing to consult them before the decision to go to war.

Meanwhile, Trump has pushed back on the four European leaders — all members of the NATO military alliance — for their lack of support for the U.S. in the conflict.

Trump is expected to discuss with leaders the demining of the Strait of Hormuz, according to the White House. Britain and France have expressed interest in assisting with the demining once the conflict is paused. Fear of potential mines is among the reasons that tanker traffic has come to a halt during the war, and quickly clearing them will be crucial to regaining the confidence of commercial vessels.

Macron, this year’s summit host, invited the leaders of three nations that aren’t part of the G7 — Egypt, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates — to take part in a session on the Middle East on Tuesday where Iran is expected to be a central focus.

"The aim will be to assess the implications of this agreement, support for Lebanon, the long-term reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, of course, reaching a deal on Iran’s nuclear and ballistic (missile) programs,” Macron said in a video posted on social media on Sunday evening.

Trump faces questions about financial incentives for Tehran

Trump had fiercely criticized former President Barack Obama for the 2015 nuclear agreement that Trump argued failed to stop Tehran from advancing toward a weapon and funneled billions into the Islamic Republic’s coffers.

In 2018, Trump exited the deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the European Union were also signatories to the pact.

But Trump hasn't detailed how his agreement will address some key issues about Iran's nuclear program, including who will be in charge of verifying that Iran is complying with the agreement and who will destroy or remove 972 pounds (440.89 kilograms) of highly enriched uranium believed to be buried under nuclear sites that were badly damaged by U.S. strikes last summer.

The deal is also expected to include some sanctions relief and economic incentives for Tehran as it meets certain benchmarks aimed at assuaging White House concerns, senior administration officials said ahead of the two sides reaching an agreement.

Some Democrats and hawkish critics say Trump has failed to explain how the financial relief in his agreement will differ from what Obama did in the 2015 nuclear deal.

“For all his critique of JCPOA, we had international observers, we actually had an alliance there that included the Europeans, and Russia and China were all signatories,” Sen. Mark Warner, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, told CBS' “Face the Nation” on Sunday. “Now it is America going alone or going with Israel only, and that does not make us safer.”

Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham, a close ally of Trump and an Iran hawk, expressed skepticism, saying that Congress will need to review and vote on any nuclear deal with Iran, and said he expects Vice President JD Vance — “the architect of the deal” — to present it. “I am somewhat concerned that Iran’s view of the agreement seems different than what the American negotiating team is claiming,” Graham said on social media.

Trump makes calls to Putin, Zelenskyy ahead of G7

Macron also invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a working session with G7 leaders on Tuesday to discuss the Russia-Ukraine war.

At the moment, Zelenskyy is not scheduled to hold one-on-one talks with Trump while they're both in France, but Trump on Sunday held separate phone calls with Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Putin’s call with Trump lasted just under an hour, according to Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov, who briefed reporters afterward.

On Ukraine, Ushakov said Trump emphasized the need to end hostilities and stated his readiness to influence European allies and Kyiv toward that goal, including at the G7.

According to Ushakov, Trump also said that recent strikes on civilian targets in Russia complicate a settlement. The White House did not comment on the call.

U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner are expected to travel to Russia soon, Ushakov said.

Zelenskyy said in a statement posted on Telegram that he told Trump about how Ukraine’s position along the eastern frontline has improved and strengthened.

“We agreed to discuss more during our meeting at the G7 summit,” he said.

Trump and Zelenskyy last met in December, when the Ukrainian leader visited Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida.

The U.S.-Israeli war with Iran and the resulting global energy disruptions have overshadowed the conflict in Ukraine and pulled much of Trump’s attention away from the conflict in Europe that he vowed to quickly bring to an end during his 2024 White House run.

Police identified the victims as Mae, 51, live-in partner of a barangay chairman, and Sonny, 23, a barangay office worker.

Mae sustained a bullet wound in the neck and Sonny was shot in the head. They were declared dead on the spot.

The wounded – Dan, 56, a barangay worker, who was hit in the neck, and Gerald, 17, who was shot in the left hand and left foot – were taken to the Albuera Rural Health Unit.

A fifth person, Jun, 18, also a barangay worker, was unhurt.

Initial investigation said the victims left Mae’s house at 6:05 a.m. onboard a Toyota Wigo for the town proper to open her store. Unidentified gunmen armed with high-powered firearms positioned on higher ground fired at the victims upon reaching the area.

The suspects fled on foot toward the mountainous part of the barangay.

The Albuera Municipal Police Station (MPS) received a report from the Task Force Kamurayaw deployed in the area about the incident. Responding lawmen found the bodies of two individuals inside the car.

Police are conducting manhunt operations and follow-up investigation.