Top News Asia, Jupiter Street, Bel Air, Makati (2025)

05/11/2025

COMELEC Chair George Erwin Mojica Garcia: “We’re on Track, We’re Prepared, and We’re Committed”

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC), under the leadership of Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia, continues to show readiness and determination as it gears up for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Elections in 2026, and the equally critical polls in the Bangsamoro region.

In a recent media interview held at the COMELEC main office in Intramuros, Manila, Chairman Garcia shared significant updates and insights on the agency’s ongoing preparations.

Ballot Printing Ahead of Schedule

Garcia proudly reported that the printing of ballots for the Barangay and SK Elections is already more than halfway complete, a clear demonstration of COMELEC’s commitment to efficiency and foresight.

“Mahigit na sa kalahati ang COMELEC sa printing ng mga balota natin para sa Barangay and SK Elections. Kahit na ang eleksyon natin ay sa November 2026 pa, minarapat namin na simulan na ang printing ng mga balota,” he said.

According to the chairman, around 50 million ballots have already been printed, with the printing process expected to be completed by next week. This early start ensures the Commission will have ample time to address logistical challenges and quality assurance measures before the elections.

Respect for Bangsamoro’s Legislative Authority

Garcia also underscored COMELEC’s respect for the autonomy of the Bangsamoro government, particularly in crafting laws that govern their electoral processes.

“Ginagalang po natin ang kapangyarihan ng Bangsamoro na magkaroon ng sarili nilang proseso para sa pagkakaroon ng batas. The COMELEC, who happens to be the implementor, cannot interfere or intervene sa paggawa ng batas ng isang legislative institution,” he emphasized.

However, the chairman noted that COMELEC continues to communicate the urgency of certain matters to ensure that timelines for elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) are met.

No Postponement Plans—for Now

Amid speculations regarding potential delays, Chairman Garcia clarified that there are currently no plans to postpone any elections.

“Dito sa kasalukuyan nating scenario, wala pa sa ating plano yung pagde-declare ng postponement of the election… Wala pa namang date, wala pa namang sinasabi,” he explained.

He emphasized that COMELEC’s actions depend largely on the legislative and administrative developments within the Bangsamoro government, particularly regarding the final districting and election schedule.

Following the Timeline, Respecting the Courts

Garcia maintained that COMELEC’s timeline is based on careful analysis, past experiences, and logistical realities, not on external pressures or political influence.

“Hindi po ito pag-pressure sa Bangsamoro, at hindi rin po ito pag-pressure o pag-preempt sa aksyon ng ating kagalang-galang na Supreme Court,” he clarified.

He warned, however, that any delay beyond November 30, 2025 could make it difficult to conduct the elections by March 31, 2026, citing the technical and administrative demands of preparing an automated election.

Prepared for All Scenarios — Even Manual Elections

Despite these challenges, Chairman Garcia assured the public of COMELEC’s readiness to adapt.

“Basta may batas, gagawa at gagawa ang COMELEC ng paraan. Even to the extent na kung kakailanganin na magkaroon ng manual na halalan, gagawin namin. Bakit ba hindi?” he said confidently.

Still, Garcia reaffirmed COMELEC’s commitment to maintaining an automated election system in the Bangsamoro region, stating that it remains the standard for transparency and efficiency.

Strong Voter Registration Turnout

The chairman also reported encouraging numbers from the ongoing voter registration. In just ten days, around 240,000 registrants have already signed up, and COMELEC is on track to reach, or even exceed, its target of 1.4 million new voters.

“Nakakatuwa dahil kahit po mahaba pa ang registration, hanggang May 18, 2026, ang mga kababayan natin ay patuloy na dumadako sa ating mga registration sites,” Garcia shared.

Commitment to Credible and Inclusive Elections

Chairman Garcia’s statements reflect a clear message: the COMELEC is prepared, proactive, and people-centered. Whether it’s ensuring the timely printing of ballots, respecting regional autonomy, or encouraging voter participation, the Commission remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the integrity of Philippine democracy.

“At the end of the day,” Garcia said, “the COMELEC will always find a way, because the right to vote, and the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections, are the very foundations of our Republic.”

05/11/2025

Rising Tigers presents - Law and Governance Forum: A Convergence of Legal Wisdom and Public Leadership

The Law and Governance Forum is a premier intellectual gathering that brings together distinguished leaders in public service, politics, diplomacy and the legal profession to engage in meaningful discourse on the pressing issues shaping our nation’s governance and justice system. Guided by a commitment to uphold the rule of law, integrity, and ethical leadership, the forum serves as a platform for enlightened dialogue, policy insight, and civic inspiration.

To register. Please contact +63 977 897 8877 or [email protected]

05/11/2025

DBM Clarifies: We Don’t Propose Projects — Implementing Agencies Do

MANILA — In response to recent claims linking the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to alleged “ghost projects” in Bulacan, DBM Undersecretary Goddes Hope Libiran clarified that the DBM does not propose or identify specific projects in the National Expenditure Program (NEP).

According to Usec. Libiran, all items included in the NEP come from requests and proposals submitted by implementing agencies, not from the DBM itself.

“The DBM does not propose projects. Implementing agencies do,” Libiran explained. “We don’t even know who the proponents are, or who the agencies talk to when they submit their proposals. Everything that appears in the NEP comes from requests made by department secretaries who justify their inclusion.”

Libiran stressed that during the budget preparation stage, the DBM’s role is primarily technical and procedural, processing and evaluating proposals submitted by government departments.

“It is important to note that the DBM would have no way of knowing during budget preparation if a project is a potential ‘ghost project’ or if there’s any irregular intent behind it,” she said. “These projects are requested and justified by the agencies, and are often indicated as urgent and implementation-ready.”

She added that it is only after the enactment of the General Appropriations Act (GAA), once funds are released and project completion dates have lapsed, that “ghost projects,” if any, can be identified.

“In those cases, it’s the Commission on Audit (COA) and the implementing agencies that are responsible for monitoring, validating, and ensuring accountability,” Libiran emphasized.

The DBM reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance in all phases of the budget process, assuring the public that it continues to uphold the highest standards of integrity in the management of public funds.

05/11/2025

Department of Budget and Management Says: Keep It Simple, Santa! Celebrate the Holidays with Heart, Not Hype

With Christmas just around the corner, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is spreading a different kind of holiday cheer, one that comes with a gentle reminder: celebrate with simplicity, sincerity, and compassion.

Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman called on all government offices to celebrate the season with mindfulness and moderation, especially in light of the recent calamities that have affected many communities across the country.

“While celebrating milestones and camaraderie is important, let us not forget that many of our kababayans continue to struggle, especially those hit by recent calamities. The President wants us to be sensitive to their situation. The best way to celebrate is to give back,” Pangandaman shared.

To make sure the holiday spirit doesn’t come with unnecessary expenses, the DBM issued a Circular Letter reminding all government entities, including GOCCs, GFIs, SUCs, and LGUs, to spend wisely and responsibly during Christmas and New Year festivities.

The DBM cited Executive Order No. 292, Republic Act No. 6713, and COA Circular No. 2012-003, which clearly prohibit excessive or unnecessary spending, so forget the fancy hotels, champagne towers, and red carpet bashes funded by public money.

Instead, Secretary Pangandaman encouraged government employees to host simple yet heartfelt celebrations, reflecting the true spirit of public service, compassion, unity, and integrity.

She also urged agencies to channel their Christmas energy into activities aligned with Bagong Pilipinas, such as community outreach, volunteer work, or gift-giving programs that bring joy to those most in need.

“The DBM promotes the efficient and responsible use of government funds, especially during the holidays when spending tends to increase,” Pangandaman said.

All department and agency heads have been directed to ensure full compliance with these fiscal guidelines and to remind their teams that generosity doesn’t have to be extravagant.

As Secretary Pangandaman warmly concluded:

“The best way to celebrate is to give back. Let our gatherings embody service, generosity, and solidarity, the true spirit of a Bagong Pilipinas.”

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how bright the lights shine, it’s about how big our hearts glow.

04/11/2025

Malaysia Friendship Open Cup Golf Tournament 2025

The Embassy of Malaysia in Manila, in collaboration with the Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industries Philippines (MCCI), proudly announces the Malaysia Friendship Open Cup Golf Tournament 2025, which will be held at the Pradera Verde Golf and Country Club in Pampanga on 22 November 2025.

The prestigious tournament will bring together 288 golfers from Malaysia and the Philippines, including prominent business leaders, diplomats, government officials, and members of the international community. It promises a day of camaraderie, friendly competition, and shared purpose between two nations with long-standing ties.

With the support of over 38 esteemed organizations serving as strategic partners and sponsors, the Malaysia Friendship Open Cup is more than just a sporting event. It is a platform for strengthening partnerships, fostering goodwill, and giving back to communities. Proceeds from the tournament will go toward charitable initiatives and aid efforts for communities affected by natural disasters and calamities.

His Excellency Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castellino, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines, highlighted the deeper meaning of the event:

“As Malaysia hands over the ASEAN chairmanship to the Philippines on 28 October 2025, this golf tournament symbolizes the enduring spirit of cooperation and camaraderie between our nations. It reflects our shared commitment to fostering regional unity in pursuit of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045. This yearly event has become a hallmark of our diplomatic and professional engagement, one that strengthens relationships and cultivates a positive environment for all stakeholders.”

The Embassy of Malaysia in Manila envisions the Malaysia Friendship Open Cup Golf Tournament 2025 as a dynamic platform for networking and collaboration, bridging Filipino and Malaysian businesses and promoting partnerships with the wider international community.

Ultimately, this event aims to deepen the friendship between Malaysia and the Philippines while enhancing cooperation across diverse sectors, reflecting the shared aspiration for a stronger, more connected ASEAN region.

04/11/2025

President Marcos: Government Ensures Swift Response and Relief Efforts for Communities Affected by Typhoon Tino

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured the public that the government continues to closely monitor the situation and extend immediate assistance to areas affected by Typhoon Tino, which has impacted more than 340,000 individuals across 1,397 barangays in the regions of MIMAROPA, Bicol, Western and Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Caraga, and the Negros Island Region.

The President reported that pre-emptive evacuations were swiftly carried out to ensure public safety, with over 175,000 people currently taking temporary shelter in evacuation centers across the affected provinces.

Government agencies have mobilized their respective teams to provide rapid response and recovery support. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has prepositioned food packs and relief goods, ready for immediate distribution to displaced families. Meanwhile, the Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Electrification Administration (NEA) are actively addressing power outages, while the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) have deployed clearing teams to reopen blocked roads and restore access to isolated communities.

President Marcos also announced that Cabinet members will personally visit the hardest-hit provinces to assess the situation on the ground and ensure that basic services are restored as quickly as possible.

“The government is taking all necessary measures to accelerate recovery and help our affected countrymen get back on their feet,” the President said. “We urge everyone to stay alert and heed the advisories of local officials.”

Through coordinated efforts, the Marcos administration reaffirms its commitment to timely disaster response, rehabilitation, and recovery, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in the wake of Typhoon Tino.

📸BongBong Marcos page

04/11/2025

Commission on Filipinos Overseas headed by Secretary Klink Ang Strengthens Ties with Filipino Communities in Japan Through 2025 Ugnayan Series

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) is set to reconnect with Filipino immigrants in Japan through the 2025 CFO Ugnayan Series, a continuing effort to engage overseas communities and strengthen partnerships with Filipinos abroad.

In collaboration with the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo and the Consulates General in Nagoya and Osaka, the CFO invites the Filipino community in Japan to join the series of gatherings and consultations to be held on the following dates and venues:

📍 Nagoya – November 10, 2025
📍 Tokyo – November 21, 2025
📍 Osaka – December 2, 2025

The Ugnayan Series serves as an avenue for dialogue and collaboration between CFO officials, Filipino community leaders, and organizations overseas. It aims to introduce CFO programs and services, promote financial empowerment, and expand support networks for overseas Filipinos, particularly those establishing permanent lives abroad.

As part of the event, there will be a mobile registration service for Filipinos with long-term or permanent residency in Japan—an important step toward securing a CFO digital certificate, a vital document for registered immigrants.

Participants can also look forward to financial literacy sessions designed to enhance financial security and investment awareness among overseas Filipinos, as well as free legal consultations in Tokyo and Osaka.

To gain deeper insights into the experiences and challenges of Filipino migrants, the CFO team will conduct home visits and focus group discussions with immigrants and marriage migrants. These sessions aim to better understand their adaptation to Japanese society, family life, and overall well-being—helping the CFO design more responsive and inclusive support programs.

This initiative reflects the CFO’s enduring mandate to foster meaningful engagement with Filipino communities worldwide, ensuring that every Filipino abroad remains connected, protected, and empowered.

Through the 2025 CFO Ugnayan Series, the Commission reaffirms its commitment to champion the welfare of overseas Filipinos and strengthen the bonds that unite them under one shared goal—the continued progress and dignity of the global Filipino community.

📸CFO

04/11/2025

Secretary Amenah Pangandaman Leads DBM in Strengthening Support for Filipino Rice Farmers

Staying true to the Marcos administration’s commitment to empower the country’s agricultural sector, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman has approved the release of ₱1.665 billion in additional funds for the Department of Agriculture, Philippine Rice Research Institute’s (PhilRice) Rice Seed Program.

The move underscores the government’s continuing efforts to uplift the lives of Filipino farmers and secure the nation’s food supply by enhancing productivity in rice production.

“Ang layunin po ng ating Pangulo ay mapataas ‘yung produksyon at kita ng ating mga magsasaka sa pamamagitan ng pagbibigay sa kanila ng nararapat na suporta. Kaya po inaprubahan natin ang pagpapalabas ng karagdagang ₱1.665 bilyong pondo para sa nasabing Programa upang tuluy-tuloy ang kabuhayan ng ating mga magsasaka at may sapat na suplay ng bigas mula sa mga rehiyon,” said Secretary Pangandaman.

The newly approved budget will cover the purchase, delivery, and distribution of high-quality in**ed certified rice seeds for the 2026 dry season, as well as the procurement of vehicles and farm machinery to ensure that support services reach farmers efficiently and on time. The certified seeds will be distributed to 12 regions, including Central Luzon, the country’s top rice-producing area.

Through this initiative, the DBM under Secretary Pangandaman aims to equip farmers with the tools and resources they need to boost yields and income, while also supporting the country’s broader goal of agricultural modernization and food security.

The additional release builds on earlier efforts under the FY 2025 General Appropriations Act, where at least ₱4 billion was earmarked for PhilRice to fund the acquisition and distribution of over 2.5 million bags of in**ed certified seeds for the wet season planting that began in March 2025.

Secretary Pangandaman emphasized that supporting farmers is central to the government’s “Bagong Pilipinas” vision, which prioritizes sustainable growth in both rural and urban communities.

With her leadership, the DBM continues to ensure that every peso of public funds directly contributes to improving lives, especially those of Filipino farmers who feed the nation.

04/11/2025

DBM Confirms Early Release of Year-End Bonus and Cash Gift for Government Workers

Good news is on the way for government employees! The Department of Budget and Management (DBM), under the leadership of Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, announced that the year-end bonus and ₱5,000 cash gift for all qualified government workers will be released early this November 2025.

“Pursuant to Budget Circular No. 2024-3, the year-end bonus and ₱5,000 cash gift will be released with the first agency payroll of November 2025,” Secretary Pangandaman confirmed.

In keeping with the Marcos administration’s commitment to reward public service excellence, the Budget Secretary emphasized that the DBM is ensuring timely delivery of benefits to public servants across the nation.

“The DBM is one with the President in ensuring that our public servants feel the warmth of our Bagong Pilipinas. Pinapahalagahan po natin ang sipag at kahusayan ng ating mga lingkod-bayan kaya naman sinisiguro nating maibibigay sa tamang oras ang kanilang mga benepisyo,” Secretary Pangandaman said.

She added that the early release of the year-end bonus and cash gift serves not only as part of the Christmas season tradition but also as a symbol of gratitude for the dedication and sacrifices of government personnel.

For Fiscal Year 2025, the DBM has allocated ₱63.69 billion for the year-end bonus of civilian and uniformed personnel, and ₱9.24 billion for the cash gift. These benefits will cover over 1.85 million government workers nationwide.

The Year-End Bonus (YEB)—equivalent to one month of basic pay as of October 31—and the ₱5,000 Cash Gift (CG) are granted annually to all qualified government employees. The DBM ensures that the funds for these benefits are released comprehensively at the start of the fiscal year, allowing agencies to process and credit them promptly.

Under existing DBM rules, employees who have rendered at least four months of service from January 1 and remain in service as of October 31 are entitled to both the YEB and cash gift.

Secretary Pangandaman reminded all agencies to release the bonuses without delay, in accordance with budget circulars and government guidelines.

This initiative, she noted, reflects the administration’s continuing effort to uplift the welfare of public servants—the backbone of effective governance and the true partners in building a better, more inclusive Bagong Pilipinas.

04/11/2025

Japan Honors Cultural Bridge: Dr. Hiroko Nagai Receives Foreign Minister’s Commendation

The deep and enduring friendship between Japan and the Philippines shone brightly once more as the Government of Japan conferred the prestigious Foreign Minister’s Commendation on Dr. Hiroko Nagai, a distinguished academic, musician, and advocate of cultural understanding.

In a heartfelt ceremony held on November 3, 2025, Ambassador Endo Kazuya presented the award to Dr. Nagai at the Japanese Ambassador’s Residence in Manila. The recognition celebrates her remarkable contributions to Japan-Philippines academic and cultural exchange, especially through her long-standing role as professor and former Director of the Ateneo de Manila University Japanese Studies Program.

Dr. Nagai, known not only as a revered scholar but also as an accomplished koto musician and composer, has dedicated her career to promoting mutual understanding between the two nations. Her scholarly works on Philippine Studies and her evocative performances on the traditional Japanese string instrument have both served as cultural bridges connecting hearts and histories.

The ceremony gathered notable figures in academia and the arts, including Japan Foundation Manila Director Suzuki Ben, UP Diliman College of Music Dean Dr. Ma. Patricia Brillantes Silvestre, and PETA President Melvin Lee, underscoring the wide-reaching impact of Dr. Nagai’s work.

In his remarks, Ambassador Endo lauded Dr. Nagai’s lifelong devotion to cultural diplomacy:

“Dr. Nagai’s work has truly enriched our countries’ friendship. As we approach the 70th anniversary of our normalized relations, we look forward to her continued contributions, bringing our people closer through insightful lectures and compelling concerts.”

Capping the evening was a moving koto performance by Dr. Nagai herself, where she performed Improvisation VII: Kaibuturan, a poetic testament to the depth and harmony that define her life’s work.

With this commendation, Japan once again reaffirms its appreciation for those who nurture cross-cultural understanding and goodwill. Dr. Hiroko Nagai’s artistry and scholarship stand as a powerful reminder that music, knowledge, and friendship transcend borders, resonating with a melody that continues to strengthen Japan-Philippines ties.

📸Embassy of Japan- Manila

04/11/2025

DILG Region 8 Sharpens Its “Justice Warriors”: Retooling Field Officers for Barangay Peace and Harmony

Justice just got a power-up in Eastern Visayas! In its mission to make peacekeeping cooler (and more effective) at the grassroots level, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 8 rolled out a dynamic retooling session for its field officers under the theme “Sharpening the Pillars of Justice: Katarungang Pambarangay Retooling for DILG Field Officers.”

Held on October 14, 2025, via Zoom (because justice knows no bounds, even virtual ones!), the activity was part of the region’s Strategic Initiative for Lupon’s Advancement and Welfare (SILAW), a fitting name since it literally means light in Filipino. And yes, this session truly lit up the knowledge of our hardworking local governance champions.

Representing Regional Director Arnel M. Agabe, Assistant Regional Director Atty. Darwin N. Bibar applauded the passion and persistence of DILG’s field officers, who serve as the first line of defense in resolving community conflicts, no capes needed, just solid mediation skills and a whole lot of patience.

The virtual room buzzed with energy as experts shared their wisdom:
• Atty. Rafunzel S. Bero of Ormoc City unpacked the nuts and bolts of mediation and conciliation;
• Provincial Director Johaness Y. Dorado of Eastern Samar guided everyone through the twists and turns of arbitration and ex*****on; and
• Atty. Isabella Matilde A. Acebedo dove into the fascinating world of KP criminal and civil cases (because who says justice can’t be interesting?).

During the “Ways Forward” segment, Dr. Jhonnel M. Añavesa, Chief of the Local Government Monitoring and Evaluation Division (LGMED), stressed that learning never stops, especially when it comes to peace, fairness, and good governance.

In true Barangay Avengers fashion, Regional Director Arnel M. Agabe reminded everyone that empowering field officers is like giving barangays their own peacekeeping superpower.

“When we strengthen our field officers, we strengthen our barangays. Justice and harmony must start at the grassroots level,” Agabe emphasized.

At the end of the day, DILG Region 8’s retooling wasn’t just a webinar, it was a celebration of commitment, a recharge of passion, and a reminder that even in the smallest communities, big justice can shine bright.

Through programs like this, DILG 8 continues to prove that peace and justice aren’t just ideals, they’re everyday missions powered by knowledge, teamwork, and Serbisyo Rehiyon Otso!

04/11/2025

COMELEC headed by Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia and DSWD headed by Secretary Rex Gatchalian Empower Vulnerable Sectors Through Voter Education Initiative

In a strong display of partnership for inclusive democracy, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), under the leadership of Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia, joined forces with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to ensure that no Filipino voter is left behind.

Through its Vulnerable Sector Office (VSO), COMELEC conducted a Voter Education Activity at the National Vocational Rehabilitation Center (NVRC) on October 24, 2025, in preparation for the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

The initiative aimed to inform, educate, and empower members of the vulnerable sectors, particularly Indigenous Peoples, Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL), Senior Citizens, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), to actively exercise their constitutional right to vote.

COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia, known for his advocacy of electoral accessibility and transparency, underscored the importance of ensuring that every Filipino, regardless of circumstance, has an equal voice in shaping the nation’s future.

“Inclusive elections are the foundation of genuine democracy,” Chairman Garcia has often emphasized. “We must continue to create systems that allow every citizen, especially those in vulnerable conditions, to participate meaningfully in the electoral process.”

During the session, COMELEC’s VSO discussed key voter privileges and programs for marginalized groups, highlighting early registration, documentary requirements, and the establishment of Priority Polling Places (PPP) and Satellite Priority Polling Places (S-PPP) to enhance accessibility.

These special polling sites, strategically located on the ground floors of schools and government buildings, are designed for Senior Citizens and PWDs. While they do not contain ballot boxes, completed ballots are securely transported by support staff to the nearest official polling station, ensuring both convenience and electoral integrity.

Present during the activity were VSO Head Atty. Monalisa C. Mamukid (Director IV), NVRC Head Maria Liza F. Mahinay, along with 37 staff members and 47 trainees.

The DSWD, guided by its mantra “ ” (Every Life Matters), continues to collaborate with COMELEC in ensuring that vulnerable Filipinos are not only protected but also empowered to contribute to nation-building through active civic participation.

As the November 2, 2026 BSKE approaches, COMELEC and DSWD reaffirm their shared mission: building a future where every vote counts, and every Filipino counts.

📸DSWD

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