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DBM Assures Sufficient Calamity Funds, Urges Agencies to Ensure Proper AllocationOn July 24, 2025, Department of Budget ...
24/07/2025

DBM Assures Sufficient Calamity Funds, Urges Agencies to Ensure Proper Allocation

On July 24, 2025, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman assured the public that the government has sufficient funds to respond to the recent flooding and upcoming typhoons affecting various parts of the country.

Secretary Pangandaman emphasized that the government is prepared through the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF), along with Quick Response Funds (QRFs) already allocated to frontline agencies. “President Bongbong Marcos has instructed us to ensure immediate support to affected communities,” she said.

She added that agencies can request for QRF replenishment once at least 50% has been utilized. “We appeal to agencies to coordinate with us so we can provide the necessary funding, including QRF replenishment,” Pangandaman noted.

The DBM reiterated its commitment to fast-track fund releases provided documentation is complete. “As long as requirements are met, we process fund releases immediately,” she assured.

Secretary Pangandaman also called on government agencies to ensure that all funds reach the intended beneficiaries. “We urge all agencies to make sure every peso reaches those who need it most,” she said.

The DBM’s assurance is aimed at ensuring swift government response and efficient delivery of aid during times of calamity.



Photo | DBM

SHOWN HERE | President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., along with DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian and local officials, visited ev...
24/07/2025

SHOWN HERE | President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., along with DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian and local officials, visited evacuation centers in San Mateo, Rizal on Thursday, July 24, to check on families affected by the Habagat.

The President met with evacuees staying at Maly Elementary School and Sta. Ana Barangay Hall Covered Court. He also led the distribution of family food packs and other essential relief supplies.

Secretary Gatchalian showcased the DSWD’s mobile kitchen, which is intended to provide hot meals to displaced residents.



Photos | DSWD

LOOK | President Marcos Returns to the Philippines After Successful U.S. VisitPresident Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has retu...
24/07/2025

LOOK | President Marcos Returns to the Philippines After Successful U.S. Visit

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has returned to the Philippines following a successful official visit to the United States.

The President brought home key agreements from his meetings with former U.S. President Donald J. Trump and other American officials. These agreements are expected to create more opportunities, enhance national security, and strengthen the Philippine economy.



Photos | PCO

ICC approves Duterte’s request to postpone ruling on interim releaseThe International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Pre-Trial C...
24/07/2025

ICC approves Duterte’s request to postpone ruling on interim release

The International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Pre-Trial Chamber I granted former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte’s request to defer its decision on his petition for interim release. The move followed a formal request from Duterte’s legal team on July 14.

In the decision signed by Presiding Judge Julia Antoanella Motoc and Judge Reine Adélaïde Sophie Alapini-Gansou, the Chamber stated it would postpone its ruling until Duterte’s defense submits further action or when the court deems it appropriate. Judge María del Socorro Flores Liera dissented.

The court emphasized that interim release requests can only be initiated by the detained individual, and that the current deferment does not pre-judge the outcome of Duterte’s petition. “The Majority considers it appropriate... to defer the issuance of its decision on the Interim Release Request,” the order stated.

Duterte, currently detained in The Hague, faces charges of crimes against humanity. His confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled for September 23. His legal team hopes the former president will be released before the hearing.

The court’s decision gives Duterte's defense more time to submit supporting information while maintaining procedural neutrality.

Palace Rebukes VP Sara Over Storm Response CriticismOn July 23, 2025, Malacañang Palace responded to Vice President Sara...
23/07/2025

Palace Rebukes VP Sara Over Storm Response Criticism

On July 23, 2025, Malacañang Palace responded to Vice President Sara Duterte’s comments blaming the government’s “lack of preparation” for the impact of Tropical Storm Crising and the southwest monsoon (Habagat), saying she was “not in the country” and unaware of ongoing efforts.

Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the Vice President, currently on vacation in The Hague, was not in a position to assess the government’s disaster response. “The Vice President probably won't really know what the administration is preparing for regarding Typhoon Crising because she is on vacation,” Castro said.

She added that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had instructed all concerned agencies to make necessary preparations before leaving for the United States. These included actions by the DSWD, DOTr, and the Philippine Coast Guard, such as free transportation and distribution of food packs to affected communities.

In addition, Castro addressed Duterte’s remarks mocking the President’s promotion of rainwater collection, saying it is backed by Republic Act No. 6716, enacted in 1989. “There is already a law... to construct rainwater collectors and water wells in all barangays,” she said, adding that the initiative aims to address water shortages, particularly during dry seasons.

The Palace reiterated that government efforts were in place and legally supported, emphasizing the importance of coordinated response and awareness of existing programs.

VP Duterte to DILG Secretary Remulla: “Be Professional”Vice President Sara Duterte called out Department of the Interior...
23/07/2025

VP Duterte to DILG Secretary Remulla: “Be Professional”

Vice President Sara Duterte called out Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla for using humor in official announcements about work and class suspensions during bad weather.

The Vice President referred to a Facebook post made through the DILG’s official account, where Remulla jokingly addressed the public waiting for suspension updates.

“If it came from an official DILG account, and it's confirmed to be so, they have to be professional,” Duterte said. She clarified that while individuals have freedom of expression, institutions must maintain professionalism. “An institution does not have the freedom of expression,” she stressed.

Remulla later apologized during an interview on GMA’s Unang Hirit, explaining that he intended to lighten the mood, not undermine the seriousness of the weather situation.

The Vice President’s remarks highlighted the importance of professionalism in public communication, especially during emergencies when the public relies on timely and serious updates.

Gorriceta Law Partners with Nograles Ilagan Cayco Lizada & Dabi (NICLD) for Nationwide ExpansionOn July 23, 2025, Gorric...
23/07/2025

Gorriceta Law Partners with Nograles Ilagan Cayco Lizada & Dabi (NICLD) for Nationwide Expansion

On July 23, 2025, Gorriceta Africa Cauton & Saavedra announced its nationwide expansion through a partnership with Nograles Ilagan Cayco Lizada & Dabi (NICLD) in Davao City and Florete Law in Iloilo, strengthening its presence across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

NICLD, led by Atty. Migs Nograles, adds regional strength and a deep commitment to public service. “We are honored to join forces with Gorriceta. This alliance marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing exceptional legal services across the Philippines,” said Nograles. “Clients in Mindanao will now have access to a law firm that operates with international standards, ensuring top-notch legal expertise and services.”

With the integration, Gorriceta now has 60 professionals and enhanced capabilities in corporate, tech, regulatory, and litigation services, offering consistent and localized legal solutions nationwide.



Photos | Atty. Migs Nograles | Facebook

JUST IN | PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III has accepted the challenge of a fistfight issued by Davao City Acting Mayor S...
23/07/2025

JUST IN | PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III has accepted the challenge of a fistfight issued by Davao City Acting Mayor Sebastian Duterte. Instead of a brawl, Torre suggested turning it into a boxing match for a cause.

According to Torre, the proceeds from the event would be donated to victims of Typhoon Crising and the southwest monsoon (habagat).

He said he is ready to go 12 rounds in a boxing match, which he proposed to be held at the Araneta Coliseum.

Remulla Responds to Online Criticism Over Suspension Announcement HumorOn July 23, 2025, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla o...
23/07/2025

Remulla Responds to Online Criticism Over Suspension Announcement Humor

On July 23, 2025, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Wednesday addressed online backlash after receiving criticism for his tone and jokes in social media posts related to class and work suspensions.

In a Facebook post, Remulla defended his approach, saying: “Pasensya na, pero hindi na ako magbabago ng ugali. Kung ang biro ko ay 'di karapat-dapat para sa inyo, tandaan ninyong wala naman akong minura, minaliit, o hinamak. Wala rin akong binola o sinabing kasinungalingan. A little humor never hurt anyone.”

The backlash came after Remulla earlier posted a light-hearted message while announcing class suspensions, saying: “Mga Abangers, sarap ng bogchi ko. Sa kabusugan ay naka-idlip nang sandali,” drawing mixed reactions from the public.

Photo | DILG Philippines | Facebook

LOOK | Slope Protection in Zambales Damaged by Heavy RainsContinuous heavy rains on July 23, 2025, caused damage to a sl...
23/07/2025

LOOK | Slope Protection in Zambales Damaged by Heavy Rains

Continuous heavy rains on July 23, 2025, caused damage to a slope protection structure in Barangay Sta. Fe, San Marcelino, Zambales.

Mayor Elvis Soria said the local government, along with Barangay Sta. Fe officials, has deployed heavy equipment to reinforce the affected portion of the d**e.



Photos | Jonas Reyes / San Marcelino LGU

Rice Tariff Collections Drop by 60% in First Half of 2025The Bureau of Customs (BOC) reported that rice tariff collectio...
23/07/2025

Rice Tariff Collections Drop by 60% in First Half of 2025

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) reported that rice tariff collections from January to June 2025 fell by nearly 60%, totaling P9.7 billion, down from P23.2 billion during the same period last year. The decline was attributed to the continued implementation of the 15% tariff rate on imported rice.

Despite a slight increase in rice import volume to 2.4 million metric tons, up 4% year-on-year, revenue from tariffs dropped significantly due to the reduced tariff rate. The government previously slashed the tariff to 15% to help control inflation and stabilize local rice prices. The Philippine Statistics Authority noted that rice price inflation slowed to 14.3% in June, from 22.5% in the same month last year.

With current trends, full-year tariff collections are expected to reach only P18 to P20 billion—falling short of the P30 billion mandated for the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF). The shortfall will be covered by the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) regular budget as provided under Republic Act 12078.

“The lower collections mean less direct funding from tariffs, so the DA may need to adjust its budget to meet the guaranteed RCEF,” an industry source said. This could affect other agricultural programs.

Stakeholders have warned that to meet the P30 billion RCEF target at the 15% tariff rate, rice imports would need to increase significantly. The DA has expressed interest in gradually restoring the original 35% tariff to balance revenue and market impact.

The reduced rice tariffs may have helped curb inflation, but they also highlight the need to reassess the long-term sustainability of funding mechanisms for the local rice sector.

Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced the cancellation of several flights on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, due to prevailing w...
23/07/2025

Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced the cancellation of several flights on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, due to prevailing weather conditions.

Cancelled Domestic Flights:
PR 2808 – Davao to Manila
PR 2771 / PR 2772 – Manila to Tagbilaran to Manila
PR 2133 / PR 2134 – Manila to Bacolod to Manila
PR 2527 / PR 2528 – Manila to Cagayan de Oro to Manila

Cancelled International Flights:
PR 300 / PR 301 – Manila to Hong Kong to Manila
PR 736 / PR 737 – Manila to Bangkok to Manila

Passengers are advised not to proceed to the airport and may choose from the following options:

- Rebook within 60 days on a flight with available space in the same or higher class.

- Convert the ticket to travel credits equal to the unused base fare, valid for one year.

- Request a refund without penalties (excluding the ticketing service charge).

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