ISKUP, Manila (2025)

31/08/2025

31 Agosto, 2025 Linggo

Welcomes 20th Congress

Congratulations to 19.7k views "Komedya O Komida" 6th edition and 1.4k views "Komedya O Komida" 9th edition; 1.1k views 10th edition;11th edition 978 views;12th edition 879 views of our very own J.Lo

Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman

Headlines

AFP opens Batanes operating base

By J.Lo

“Mahatao Forward Operating Base strengthens our ability to defend northern frontier and ensures that NOLCOM, together with Province of Batanes, can respond swiftly to both security challenges and disasters,” Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) commander Lt. Gen. Fernyl Buca said during inauguration Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is now operating new naval base in Batanes, boosting country’s northernmost territorial defense and humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities.

Buca led inauguration of Mahatao Forward Operating Base (FOB) with Philippine Navy chief Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta.

Batanes Gov. Ronald Aguto Jr. and Commodore Edward Ike Sagon, commander of Northern Luzon Naval Command (NLVC), also witnessed the ceremony.

“This partnership with local government shows how national defense and local governance work hand in hand for protection of our people,” Buca added.

NOLCOM public information office chief Lt. Col. Mario Bautista Jr. said Mahatao FOB represents strong partnership between AFP and provincial government of Batanes.

Located in coastal town of Mahatao, base will host Navy and Marine units under NLVC and Marine Battalion Landing Team-10, he explained.

He said these units are tasked with securing Batanes Strait, monitoring maritime activities and supporting interagency operations.

Bautista said establishment of Mahatao FOB ensures closer collaboration between NOLCOM and local government unit in sustaining peace, security and disaster response in the island province.

He noted that Batanes holds strategic value as closest Philippine province to Taiwan and gateway to both West Philippine Sea and Philippine Sea.

“Mahatao FOB strengthens country’s ability to protect sovereignty, expand maritime domain awareness and respond rapidly to emergencies in northern frontier, NOLCOM remains steadfast in its mandate as jointly engaged, sustainment-maintained and readiness-trained force, defending Northern Luzon while working hand in hand with local stakeholders to protect communities and uphold national security,” Bautista said.

Philippines should confront China instead of Vietnam, if the country persists in upholding its sovereign rights in West Philippine Sea, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commodore Jay Tarriela said.

China has exhibited “clearest and most dangerous violations of our sovereignty and sovereign rights” by “occupying Mischief Reef since 1995, low-tide elevation just 130 nautical miles from Palawan, their illegal deployment of their maritime forces in Scarborough Shoal since 2012 and persistent bullying of our PCG, BFAR vessels and fishing boats,” he wrote in post on his X account.

“It is China that has repeatedly bullied our people and endangered AFP and PCG through aggressive actions lasers, water cannons and deliberate ramming,” Tarriela pointed out.

He added China’s actions were in contrast to those of Vietnam, wherein “status quo is that they occupy those features without any aggressive actions.”

“Since 2002 Declaration on Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, Vietnam has not occupied any new features and has never disturbed our presence in our occupied features…this reflects longstanding presence, not new expansionism, while Philippines rightfully raises concerns over Vietnam’s reclamation activities, it is critical to recognize that Vietnam has occupied its features for decades,” explained Tarriela.

Tarriela published his X post in response to Facebook posts by retired brigadier general Orlando de Leon, former deputy commander of Western Mindanao Command, had called out Vietnamese presence in WPS.

China again accused Philippines of being one causing trouble in South China Sea (SCS), where Chinese military and coast guard vessels continue to roam and harass Philippine vessels within country’s territorial waters and exclusive economic zone.

“Philippine side, however, has repeatedly courted influence from outside powers to make waves in this area, playing role of ass in lion’s skin,” Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesman for China’s Ministry of National Defense, said.

“Its acts have jeopardized regional security and stability…reality has proven time and again that Philippine side is the one who undermines stability and makes troubles in South China Sea,” he added.

Zhang, at press conference, issued statement after being asked to comment on holding of joint and combined military exercises involving Philippines, Australia, Canada and United States under Exercise ALON (Amphibious and Land Operations) 2025.

He again criticized how other countries are involving themselves in SCS or West Philippine Sea issues between China and Philippines.

“At the same time, certain external countries have instigated and supported Philippines to take irresponsible actions that harm shared interests of regional countries, China’s actions to safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests are justified and legitimate…we will take firm countermeasures against any provocative behaviors,” Zhang declared.

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. and AFP had earlier repeatedly stressed that defense cooperation between Philippines and its partner nations are internal initiatives and that China has no business interfering with country’s efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities and alliance with like-minded states that support free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Meanwhile, country’s security forces have put all systems in place to neutralize threats posed by foreign “sleeper agents” or spies, Malacañang said.

Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro gave assurance after Sen. Panfilo Lacson warned many Chinese sleeper agents and operatives of People’s Liberation Army have been quietly embedded in the Philippines.

“We cannot go into specifics for security reasons, but we can assure public that our security forces are actively monitoring and addressing these threats, government does not take espionage lightly, and we act swiftly when credible intelligence is verified, recent operations have already led to arrest of suspected foreign operatives, shows our agencies are not standing still…we are working closely with law enforcement and intelligence units to dismantle espionage networks wherever they may be,” Castro said at press briefing, quoting National Security Council (NSC).

31/08/2025

31 Agosto, 2025 Linggo

Welcomes 20th Congress

Congratulations to 19.7k views "Komedya O Komida" 6th edition and 1.4k views "Komedya O Komida" 9th edition; 1.1k views 10th edition;11th edition 970 views;12th edition 899 views of our very own J.Lo

Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman

Headlines

DPWH execs reassigned amid flood mess

By J.Lo

“I will accept accountability, but bear in mind I will never tolerate or allow any form of corruption now happening,” Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)Secretary Manuel Bonoan to reel from accusations of massive anomalies in flood control projects DPWH has reassigned some of its officials in Bicol, Mimaropa and Calabarzon, particularly in Batangas where a district engineer had been arrested for reportedly attempting to bribe lawmaker.

In video message on DPWH’s page, Bonoan said revamp followed preventive suspensions imposed on some officials as part department’s crackdown on corruption.

“Gusto natin managot ang dapat managot, makulong ang dapat makulong,” he said in his message.

Bonoan said they have replaced officials in Batangas’ first district engineering office after district engineer Abelardo Calalo was arrested for allegedly trying to bribe Rep. Leandro Leviste. Calalo is under preventive suspension.

In Catanduanes, Vivian Biacio took over as DPWH district engineer from Simon Arias. Named new assistant district engineer for Albay’s second district engineering office was Leonardo Gonzales, replacing Joanne Morales who in turn took over his post in the province’s third district engineering office.

Editha Babaran has been designated as OIC of the Office of the Regional Director for DPWH Region 4-B, replacing Gerald Pacanan, has been reassigned.

Taking over Babaran’s post as assistant regional director for DPWH Cagayan Valley is Ronalyn Ubina.

Bonoan also said DPWH has deployed validation teams that are now inspecting flood control projects in other provinces, including Bulacan where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.personally discovered ghost project.

Despite controversies hounding DPWH, Bonoan has made it clear he has no plan to resign, explaining that it is better for him to face the problem head on and play lead role in weeding out scalawags in the department.

He said it’s easy to resign or turn his back on problems besetting his department, but evading responsibility is not the right way to find solution to those problems.

Bonoan said it is unacceptable that there are substandard and ghost projects due to corruption while ordinary Filipinos have to deal with flooding during heavy rains.

He urged public to help them identify corrupt officials in DPWH and report them through their hotline number 165-02 or via email at [email protected].

Bonoan assured public that there are only few scalawags in DPWH.

“There are more trustworthy and competent people in DPWH than corrupt ones,” he said.

The DPWH chief also announced creation of Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Committee, and revealed Commission on Audit has begun conducting fraud audit on suspicious projects in Bulacan.

30/08/2025

30 Agosto, 2025 Sabado

Congratulations to 19.7k views "Komedya O Komida" 6th edition and 1.4k views "Komedya O Komida" 9th edition; 1.1k views 10th edition;11th edition 969 views;12th edition 898 views of our very own J.Lo

Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman

Bonoan vows accountability amid flood project scandal

By J.Lo

“Meron nga nananawagan sa aking ako po raw ay mag-leave o kaya po ay mag-resign dahil po sa isyung ito… ’yan po sana ang madaling gawin, mag-resign o talikuran ko ang problema”, Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan dismissed calls for his resignation over alleged anomalous flood control projects.

He insisted that stepping down would not solve problem but only sidestep responsibility.

"Pero hindi po ang pag-alis o pag-iwas ng responsibilidad ang tamang paraan ng paghahanap ng solusyon," he added.

Embattled secretary said while he accepts accountability, he will not allow corruption to persist under his watch.

"Sa akin po, tatanggapin ko ang accountability pero tandaan po ninyo, hindi ko po kukonsintihin at papayagan ang anumang uri ng korupsyon na nangyayari," he said.

Bonoan’s statement comes as Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) grapples with mounting allegations of ghost projects and questionable contracts.

DPWH has already reshuffled key officials, including regional director of Region 4B and several engineers in Batangas. It also suspended district offices linked to alleged bogus flood control projects in Bulacan.

DPWH is also verifying existence of projects across Regions 3, 4B, 6, 7 and 8.

To curb further anomalies, DPWH earlier created Anti-Corruption Task Force to encourage public to report questionable projects.

Bonoan also moved to suspend all personal foreign travel of DPWH personnel until November 30, citing need for “transparency, accountability, and public service integrity” while projects are being validated. Order , however, allows exemptions for urgent medical cases.

Investigations intensified earlier this month after arrest of Batangas 1st District Engineer Abelardo Calalo, accused of offering P3.1 million to Representative Leandro Leviste to halt inquiry into infrastructure projects.

Leviste later revealed that contractors in the district were handpicked by lawmakers in exchange for kickbacks or “SOPs.”

Senate Blue Ribbon Committee has also launched its own probe, zeroing in on Bulacan contractor, Wawao Builders, allegedly bagged P9 billion worth of projects in Calumpit, Hagonoy and Malolos.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in his July State of the Nation Address, directed DPWH to publish full list of flood control projects from past three years, opening them to public scrutiny.

Amid scandal, Malacañang has expressed continued confidence in Bonoan.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said public works chief still enjoys president’s trust even as DPWH faces scrutiny.

Meanwhile, Bonoan is ready to release his Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), aligning with Marcos' directive for lifestyle checks on government officials.

30/08/2025

30 Agosto, 2025 Sabado

Congratulations to 19.7k views "Komedya O Komida" 6th edition and 1.4k views "Komedya O Komida" 9th edition; 1.1k views 10th edition;11th edition 970 views;12th edition 879 views of our very own J.Lo

Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
Minneapolis shooting kills two children, injures 17 others

By Nidz Godino

"Two young children, ages eight and 10, were killed where they sat in pews," Minneapolis City police chief Brian O'Hara said, adding that another 14 children and three elderly parishioners were injured by gunfire.

Heavily-armed shooter opened fire on school children attending church service in Minneapolis, killing two pupils and wounding 17 people in the latest violent tragedy to jolt United States.

O'Hara said attacker sprayed bullets through windows of Annunciation Church as dozens of young students were at Mass marking their first week back at school.

Church sits next to affiliated Catholic school in Minneapolis, largest city in Midwestern state of Minnesota.

Gunman fired rifle, shotgun and pistol before dying by su***de in parking lot. He had purchased weapons legally, police said.

One 10-year-old had survived shooting thanks to friend who covered him with his body.

"I just ran under pew, and then I covered my head, my friend Victor saved me though, because he laid on top of me, but he got hit ," he told media.

Mass shooting is latest in long line of deadly school attacks in US, attempts to restrict easy access to fi****ms face political deadlock. BI Director Kash Patel said the agency was investigating shooting as "act of domestic terrorism and hate crime targeting Catholics."

Patel identified shooter as "Robin Westman, male born as Robert Westman."

Westman, now 23, legally changed name in 2020 and identified as female, court papers show.

In post on X, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said shooter was "claiming to be transgender" and called attack "unthinkable."

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey warned against using attack to lash out at transgender people, and addressed issue of gun ownership in US.

"Anybody who is using this... as opportunity to villainize our trans community, or any other community out there has lost their sense of common humanity, we've got more guns in this country than we have people, and it's on all of us to recognize truth and reality that we can't just say that this shouldn't happen again and then allow it to happen again and again," Frey told reporters.

US media reports said Westman had been student at school.

Videos posted online by shooter showed multi-page manifesto, and names and drawings of fi****ms.

O'Hara said "manifesto appeared to show him at the scene and included some disturbing writings and content has since been taken down."

Witnesses and survivors told of harrowing scene with shooter dressed in black and wearing ski mask opening fire, and children hiding in church pews.

Video footage from outside police cordon showed panicked parents hurrying away with their young children dressed in school uniform of green polo shirts.

Attack drew condemnation and expressions of grief from many including President Donald Trump, directed US flags at White House be lowered to half-staff.

Pope Leo XIV,first American to head Catholic Church was "profoundly saddened" by the tragedy.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called for Americans "to do best we can, to understand what we can do to prevent any parent from having to receive calls they received today."

This year, there have been at least 287 mass shootings defined as shooting involving at least four victims, dead or wounded across the country, according to Gun Violence Archive.

At least 16,700 people were killed in US fi****ms violence last year, not including su***des.

Among many shocking US school shootings was rampage in 2022 when 18-year-old gunman stormed Uvalde, Texas elementary school and opened fire, killing 19 students and two teachers.

30/08/2025

30 Agosto, 2025 Sabado

Congratulations to 19.7k views "Komedya O Komida" 6th edition and 1.4k views "Komedya O Komida" 9th edition; 1.1k views 10th edition;11th edition 968 views;12th edition 878 views of our very own J.Lo

Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman

Duterte Youth party-list to ask for SC rescue

By Nidz Godino

“Commission finds no cogent reason to depart from or reverse ruling of Commission Second Division,” Commission on Elections (Comelec) said in 10-page resolution. upheld ruling that canceled registration of the Duterte Youth party-list.

Comelec, voting 5-1-1, ruled to affirm June 18 decision of commission’s Second Division canceling registration of Duterte Youth.

“Wherefore, premises considered, Commission en banc resolves to deny motion for reconsideration… assailed resolution is hereby affirmed,” it further said.

Comelec pointed out Second Division’s resolution is well-supported by evidence on record and is consistent with applicable laws.

Comelec said as clearly mandated by law, duty to publish required documents for registration lies with party-list organization.

“This includes full compliance with jurisdictional requirements such as publication and shouldering costs thereof….these are not mere formalities but essential legal prerequisites that respondent-movant must comply with,” resolution read.

It pointed out, “Commission Second Division made it clear absence of directive does not excuse respondent-movant’s non-compliance…it cannot evade responsibility by pointing to Commission’s silence as legal and moral obligations remain binding regardless.”

Comelec also said there is no prescriptive period in cancellation of registration of party-list organizations.

“This makes it possible for Commission to prevent misuse and abuse of party-list system and guarantees that only those qualified and genuine sectors benefit from it,” Comelec noted.

Comelec spokesman John Rex Laudiangco said Comelec decision is not yet final and executory and party-list group can still appeal decision before Supreme Court.

In May 2025 elections, Duterte Youth ranked second in party-list race after it received 2,338,564 votes.

However, its proclamation was suspended due to pending cases it is facing before poll body.

It was on June 18 when Comelec Second Division ruled to cancel registration of Duterte Youth as party-list organization, prompting latter to file motion for reconsideration before commission.

Meanwhile, Makabayan bloc in House of Representatives welcomed decision of Comelec upholding cancellation of Duterte Youth party-list registration.

Kabataan party-list Rep. Renee Co said Comelec’s ruling affirmed that party-list system must serve genuine sectoral representation, not political interests of dynasties seeking to manipulate electoral institutions.

“Decision is victory for authentic youth representation in our country, Duterte youth is not authentic representative of youth, but fake organization created only to strengthen political machinery of Duterte family, Duterte Youth was never established to advance genuine interests of Filipino youth…instead, it served as tool for red-tagging and attacking progressive youth organizations while masquerading as legitimate sectoral representative,” Co said in joint statement with Act Teachers party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio.

For his part, Tinio emphasized broader implications of this ruling and urgent need for immediate action.

“True sectoral representative has long been waiting for this decision…with Duterte Youth’s disqualification, Comelec must immediately proclaim qualified party-list groups, particularly Gabriela Women’s Party, has been unjustly denied its rightful seat,” Tinio said.

Tinio said women in the country need true representation in Congress.

“Every day that passes without Gabriela Women’s Party’s proclamation is another day that Filipino women are deprived of their voice in crafting laws that affect their lives and welfare,” Tinio said.

Makabayan bloc has long exposed how bogus party-list groups like Duterte Youth have corrupted party-list system, depriving genuine sectoral representatives of their rightful seats in Congress.

30/08/2025

30 Agosto, 2025 Sabado

Congratulations to 19.7k views "Komedya O Komida" 6th edition and 1.4k views "Komedya O Komida" 9th edition; 1.1k views 10th edition;11th edition 967 views;12th edition 878 views of our very own J.Lo

Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
Parties to comment on 2025 BSKE postponement

By J.Lo

BOTH Senate, House of Representatives, Office of the President and Commission on Elections (Comelec) are set to file their comments on three petitions seeking nullification of Republic Act 12232 postpones Dec. 1, 2025 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) to November 2026 to Supreme Court (SC)as directed.

At press briefer SC Office of the Spokesperson said high tribunal, during its sessions on Aug. 19 and 28, ruled to consolidate three petitions against RA 12232 and directed respondents to submit “within non-extendible period of 10 days from notice” their respective comments on petitions.

High tribunal, meanwhile, did not act on petitioners’ prayer for temporary restraining order (TRO) that would have prevented implementation of RA 12232 pending its decision on petitions.

Office of the Solicitor General will defend government’s position, Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said.

Signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last Aug. 13, RA 12232 extends term of office of barangay and SK officials to four years from current three years.

Newly enacted law states no elective barangay official shall serve for more than three consecutive terms in the same position, while SK officials are prohibited from serving for more than one term in the same position.

RA 12232 also moved BSKE scheduled on Dec. 1, 2025 to the first Monday of November 2026 and every four years thereafter.

Law allows incumbent barangay and SK officials to remain in office until Nov. 30, 2026. Nonetheless, it also states current barangay and SK officials serving their third consecutive term in the same position shall not be eligible to run for the same position in the November 2026 polls.At least three petitions were filed at SC seeking nullification of RA 12232 for being “unconstitutional.”

Petitions were filed by election lawyer Romulo Macalintal, school teacher John Barry Tayam and good governance advocate group Kaya Natin! Youth (KNY) represented by its leaders Mystro Yushi Fujii, Boyd Luis Antonio Tolentino Jr., Louise Adrian Magat, Roberto Garcia Jr. and Catherine Apple Arenas.

Meanwhile, SC took cognizance of Liga ng Barangay ng Pilipinas and 51 punong barangays’ petition to intervene in Macalintal case. Group had earlier expressed its opposition against Macalintal’s petition.

SC directed Macalintal and respondents Senate, House of Representatives, OP and Comelec to file their comments within 10 days on the “petition-in-intervention and opposition” of Liga ng Barangay ng Pilipinas and punong barangays.

28/08/2025

29 Agosto, 2025 Biyernes

Welcomes 20th Congress

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Torre goes on leave, good soldier

By Nidz Godino

“Look at me straight in the eye…do I look like somebody bitter…do I look bitter… I have no ill feelings, I am good soldier,” relieved Philippine National Police chief, Gen. Nicolas Torre III told reporters at House of Representatives he visited ML party-list Rep. Leila de Lima, who was celebrating her birthday.

After unceremoniously being relieved as PNP chief Torre took leave of absence from PNP, while making clear that, as “good soldier,” he bore no rancor against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The four-star general, still has two years before retirement in 2027, was visibly in good mood as he entertained questions.

Torre, product of the PNP Academy, was dismissed Tuesday as announced by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla, part of reason was insubordination and acting beyond his authority, without clearance from higher ups.

Torre had no bad blood either with DILG chief, has supervisory powers over PNP.

“Nothing was damaged,” he said when asked about his feelings toward Remulla. “Premise of your question is, beyond repair, so it’s as if something is damaged… I’m telling you, since Tuesday, in Secretary Jonvic’s official statement, was anything damaged…there was nothing, right?”

“It’s all the President’s choice…he said it was all the President’s choice, which I supported,” Torre said, implying his support for Marcos’ choice of his successor, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

Asked about his possible new appointment, Torre said: “Let’s just wait for official announcement, if there will be any. It’s like putting cart before horse.”

He refused to disclose if he had talked to Marcos, citing “executive privilege.”

When asked about his possible appointment to head National Bureau of Investigation, Torre replied, “I’m not qualified for it.” NBI requires lawyer as chief.

Torre went to office of De Lima, bringing with him cake, and jokingly said he had taken job as rider delivering food to clients.

“Seriously speaking, when I was the chief PNP, Congresswoman De Lima was among first visitors in my office,she visited me and we talked about things... so, I just reciprocated gesture… I found out that it’s her birthday today…actually, I knew it a long time ago…so I just really wanted to wish her well on her birthday…so I just brought simple cake,” Torre added.

Malacañang, meanwhile, dismissed claims by Makabayan bloc in House of Representatives that Torre’s relief was indication of “widening cracks” in Marcos administration.

Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, who had challenged Torre to fistfight but did not show up on the day of match, also cited “internal conflict” within administration.

“That is not happening and that is not what we are seeing,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at press briefing.

Castro confirmed that Marcos had offered Torre another position in government, but declined to provide details.

She said details about Torre’s potential new role in the administration would be announced once it is finalized and accepted by Torre.

“Because, as we have said, General Torre is very competent public servant and he can still serve people,we will provide you details once it has been finalized and General Torre has accepted it,” Castro said.

Asked about reason for Torre’s removal, Castro cited issues related to National Police Commission resolution on police reshuffling, as mentioned by Remulla.

“We just have to respect the wisdom of the President on this matter,” she said.

Castro also responded to views that “messy transition” could have been prevented had administration announced new position for Torre before he was relieved.

“We can’t say that there was messy transition because they did talk and we know that General Torre understands what happened and he also respects the President’s decision,” she said.

“Look at me straight in the eye…do I look like somebody bitter…do I look bitter… I have no ill feelings, I am good soldier,” relieved Philippine National Police chief, Gen. Nicolas Torre III told reporters at House of Representatives he visited ML party-list Rep. Leila de Lima, who was celebrating her birthday.

After unceremoniously being relieved as PNP chief Torre took leave of absence from PNP, while making clear that, as “good soldier,” he bore no rancor against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The four-star general, still has two years before retirement in 2027, was visibly in good mood as he entertained questions.

Torre, product of the PNP Academy, was dismissed Tuesday as announced by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla, part of reason was insubordination and acting beyond his authority, without clearance from higher ups.

Torre had no bad blood either with DILG chief, has supervisory powers over PNP.

“Nothing was damaged,” he said when asked about his feelings toward Remulla. “Premise of your question is, beyond repair, so it’s as if something is damaged… I’m telling you, since Tuesday, in Secretary Jonvic’s official statement, was anything damaged…there was nothing, right?”

“It’s all the President’s choice…he said it was all the President’s choice, which I supported,” Torre said, implying his support for Marcos’ choice of his successor, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

Asked about his possible new appointment, Torre said: “Let’s just wait for official announcement, if there will be any. It’s like putting cart before horse.”

He refused to disclose if he had talked to Marcos, citing “executive privilege.”

When asked about his possible appointment to head National Bureau of Investigation, Torre replied, “I’m not qualified for it.” NBI requires lawyer as chief.

Torre went to office of De Lima, bringing with him cake, and jokingly said he had taken job as rider delivering food to clients.

“Seriously speaking, when I was the chief PNP, Congresswoman De Lima was among first visitors in my office,she visited me and we talked about things... so, I just reciprocated gesture… I found out that it’s her birthday today…actually, I knew it a long time ago…so I just really wanted to wish her well on her birthday…so I just brought simple cake,” Torre added.

Malacañang, meanwhile, dismissed claims by Makabayan bloc in House of Representatives that Torre’s relief was indication of “widening cracks” in Marcos administration.

Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, who had challenged Torre to fistfight but did not show up on the day of match, also cited “internal conflict” within administration.

“That is not happening and that is not what we are seeing,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at press briefing.

Castro confirmed that Marcos had offered Torre another position in government, but declined to provide details.

She said details about Torre’s potential new role in the administration would be announced once it is finalized and accepted by Torre.

“Because, as we have said, General Torre is very competent public servant and he can still serve people,we will provide you details once it has been finalized and General Torre has accepted it,” Castro said.

Asked about reason for Torre’s removal, Castro cited issues related to National Police Commission resolution on police reshuffling, as mentioned by Remulla.

“We just have to respect the wisdom of the President on this matter,” she said.

Castro also responded to views that “messy transition” could have been prevented had administration announced new position for Torre before he was relieved.

“We can’t say that there was messy transition because they did talk and we know that General Torre understands what happened and he also respects the President’s decision,” she said.

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