Truth News

30/03/2026

PCSO SET TO SEND LANDING CRAFT TO BATANES FOR BETTER PATIENT TRANSFERS

Vessel to enable 'door-to-door' medical transport between island towns

BASCO, Batanes – The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) is bringing a new landing craft vessel (LCV) to Batanes later this year, as part of national efforts to make healthcare more accessible to residents of the province’s scattered island communities.

The move follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure all Filipinos have access to essential health services, PCSO General Manager Melquiades “Mel” Robles announced.

Described as a “mini RORO,” the LCV will allow ambulances to be loaded directly onto the ship – meaning patients can stay inside their transport vehicles from their homes or local clinics all the way to hospitals in larger towns like Basco.

“This means the patient can remain inside the ambulance from the point of transport until arrival at the hospital, without the need for repeated transfers,” Robles explained. “Direkta natin silang madadala sa pinakamalapit na pagamutan—isang tunay na door-to-door na serbisyong medikal.”

The vessel will connect areas like Sabtang to the provincial capital, addressing long-standing mobility issues caused by rough sea conditions and limited inter-island transport options.

It will build on PCSO’s existing support for the province, which includes providing land-based patient transport vehicles to local government units.

The need for better sea transport was emphasized during a two-day medical and dental mission last March 26 and 27 in Sabtang and Basco. Hundreds of residents received free consultations, medicines, and diagnostic tests – including screenings for tuberculosis and chest conditions using a portable AI-powered X-ray system.

While the new technology allows for faster on-site diagnosis, officials noted that reliable transport is still key to getting patients to facilities for further treatment.

With a population of about 18,000 spread across 6 municipalities and 29 barangays, Batanes has long struggled with timely access to healthcare due to its island geography. Local leaders have welcomed the PCSO initiative as a critical step forward for remote communities.

The LCV deployment is part of the government’s program to strengthen healthcare services in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).

Photo: Ctto

29/03/2026

29/03/2026

CALL FOR DUTERTE-DUTERTE TANDEM IN 2028; GROUP PUSHES FOR MANUAL COUNTING AT PRECINCT LEVEL

Advocates cite need for transparency, call for review of Comelec officials over alleged irregularities

A group of supporters led by Atty. Israelito Torreon has put forward a fearless forecast for the 2028 national elections, endorsing Sarah Zimmerman Duterte for President and Sebastian Zimmerman Duterte for Vice President, stating the tandem is "for the nation."

Alongside the endorsement, the group is pushing for the full implementation of Section 31 of Republic Act 9369 (the Automated Election System Law), which mandates manual counting of votes at the precinct level with electronic transmission of results. According to the group, this measure is necessary to ensure votes are properly read, allow poll watchers to verify actual results, and maintain a clear record per precinct – addressing concerns over uncertainty about whether current election returns reflect the true votes cast by residents in each area.

The group also calls for action to remove or impeach a Commission on Elections (Comelec) official, whom they accuse of refusing to implement the said provision and of being involved in questionable actions during the 2025 midterm elections. They warn that even a strong tandem like Duterte-Duterte could face issues with vote counting without precinct-level data, and claim there are reports the official has received bribes. The group further urges the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to investigate the bribery allegations to establish the veracity.

The advocates are now asking the public three key questions:

- Do you support the Duterte/Duterte tandem for the 2028 elections?

- Do you agree to the implementation of Section 31 of RA 9369 or manual counting at the precinct level?

- Do you agree to take steps to impeach the Comelec official mentioned?



Disclaimer: This article reflects the position of the group putting forward the forecast and calls to action. The claims made about the Comelec official have not been independently verified, and all parties are entitled to due process under the law. For official information on election rules and procedures, the public is advised to refer to the Comelec and relevant government agencies.

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VP SARA DUTERTE & MAYOR BASTE DUTERTE

28/03/2026

Torreon's Team: Files Supreme Court Challenge Against VP Duterte Impeachment Proceedings

Lawyers supportive of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte on Friday, March 27, formally asked the Supreme Court to stop the impeachment proceedings currently underway at the House of Representatives, arguing that the process violates established rules and prioritizes politics over national welfare.

In a press briefing, Israelito Torreon announced that his legal team has filed a petition for certiorari and prohibition, with a prayer for a temporary restraining order to halt the proceedings immediately. The petition contends that the House Committee on Justice has overstepped its authority and that there is no legal requirement for the Vice President to personally attend hearings related to the impeachment complaints.

Torreon emphasized that the team is not officially representing the Vice President in the action, stating they are acting independently to uphold constitutional processes and ensure fairness in government proceedings.

The move comes days after Vice President Duterte released a statement on March 25, noting that the nation is facing pressing economic challenges including threats of business closures, job losses, and rising commodity prices. She had previously accused the House of conducting a "fishing expedition" against her and called for the complaints to be dismissed due to lack of evidence, having already submitted her Answer ad Cautelam to the committee.

The impeachment complaints against the Vice President were filed earlier this month, though specific details on the allegations have not yet been fully disclosed to the public.

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Atty. Israelito Torreon

28/03/2026

VP SARA DUTERTE'S STATEMENT ON IMPEACHMENT

Fellow countrymen,

PAHAYAG::March 25, 2026

Mga kababayan,

Ang suliranin ng bayan ngayon ay ang nanganganib na pagsasara ng mga negosyo, ang pagkawala ng trabaho, at ang hirap ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino dulot ng patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng mga produkto.

Ang imbitasyon na dumalo sa pagdinig ng Committee on Justice ay tila ginagamit upang makabuo ng isang media narrative na magkakaroon ng “mini-trial,” batay sa umano'y hindi ko pagsagot at hindi pagdalo.

Sa ganitong paraan, ginagamit ang mga pagdinig upang makapagsagawa na naman ang House of Representatives ng ikatlong fishing expedition laban sa akin.

Muli, inuuna ang politika kaysa sa kapakanan ng milyon-milyong Pilipino na hirap na hirap dahil sa mahal na bilihin.

Malinaw na walang patakaran na nagsasabing kailangang personal na dumalo ang respondent sa impeachment complaint sa mga pagdinig ng Committee on Justice.

Naisumite ko na ang aking Answer ad Cautelam. Sa ngayon, wala nang dapat pang gawin ang Komite kundi ibasura ang mga reklamo dahil sa malinaw na kakulangan ng ebidensya.

Samantala, mas pipiliin kong ilaan ang aking oras sa pagtulong sa mga Pilipino—lalo na sa pagbibigay ng paalala, diretso sa mga komunidad, upang maibsan ang hirap sa gastusin ng mga pamilyang higit na nangangailangan.

Shukran.

SARA Z. DUTERTE
Vice President of the Philippines

Related Story:

VP Duterte Says House Hearings Are "Fishing Expedition," Prioritizes Helping Filipinos Amid High Prices

Vice President Sara Z. Duterte released a statement on March 25, 2026, accusing the House of Representatives of using justice committee hearings to launch a third "fishing expedition" against her, while asserting that politics is being prioritized over addressing the country’s economic hardships.

In her statement, Duterte noted that the nation is grappling with threats of business closures, job losses, and rising commodity prices that burden Filipino families. She said the invitation to attend the Committee on Justice hearing was intended to create a media narrative for a "mini-trial," citing claims of her failure to respond and appear.

The Vice President emphasized that no rule mandates personal attendance by respondents in impeachment complaints at committee hearings. She added that she has already submitted her Answer ad Cautelam, and called on the committee to dismiss the complaints due to insufficient evidence.

Instead of attending the hearings, Duterte said she would focus her time on assisting Filipinos, particularly by engaging directly with communities to help ease their financial struggles.

Photo: Ctto

18/03/2026

Torreon Expresses Profound Gratitude and Outlines Vision for PDP Laban in Davao Region

Following his recent oath-taking as President of the PDP Regional Council for Region XI (Davao Region), Atty. Israelito Torreon issued a heartfelt message of gratitude, reflecting on the significant responsibility entrusted to him and outlining his commitment to the party's principles and future.

In his address, Atty. Torreon emphasized that his new role is a "solemn recognition of trust, duty, and shared purpose," which he accepts with "humility and a full heart." He paid tribute to the late Senate President Aquilino "Nene" Pimentel Jr., founder of PDP Laban, acknowledging Pimentel's "principles, patriotism, and vision" that established the party on foundations of reform and genuine public service. Torreon affirmed his commitment to upholding Pimentel's enduring legacy.

He also extended deep gratitude to former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, whose "strength, courage, and leadership" he credited for transforming PDP Laban into a "stronger and more formidable force." Chairman Alfonso Cusi was also thanked for his "trust and confidence" in appointing Torreon to this regional leadership role, in addition to his existing position as legal counsel for the party.

Atty. Torreon acknowledged the "unwavering support, encouragement, and friendship" of key party figures, including Atty. Wendell Avisado, Astra Naik, Atty. Yvette Contacto, Mam Penny Belmonte, and Atty. Jimmy Bondoc. He particularly thanked Senator B**g Go for making time to attend his oath-taking, recognizing the Senator's busy schedule and appreciating his presence as a "generous expression of support and solidarity." Atty. Rogelio “Bic Bic” Garcia, a member of the PDP Council of Elders, also received thanks for his continued encouragement.

Special appreciation was given to Daniel Long, a young writer, and over twenty bloggers who attended the event, highlighting the broad support present.

Looking ahead, Atty. Torreon reaffirmed his full commitment to the "five pillars of PDP Laban: Theism, Authentic humanism, Enlightened nationalism, Shared prosperity, and Consultative and participatory democracy." He articulated a clear vision for the Davao Region, stating his intent to "expand our membership, energize our grassroots organization, consolidate our ranks, and build a stronger and more united PDP Laban."

A key focus of his commitment includes actively building "overwhelming support for Vice President Sara Duterte in the 2028 elections through genuine organization, hard work, unity, and principled leadership." Beyond electoral success, Torreon emphasized the importance of "political education of our people," pledging to advance sustained educational campaigns, promote voter education, and deepen public understanding of the party's philosophy and core principles to cultivate greater political awareness at the grassroots level. He stressed that the party's goal is to form "an informed, engaged, and principled citizenry."

Atty. Torreon also recognized his batchmates from the 32nd Executive Course on National Security at the National Defense College of the Philippines, expressing gratitude for their trust in electing him as their Batch President and looking forward to collaborating for "stronger institutions, better governance, and a more secure Philippines."

Finally, he offered a deeply personal acknowledgment to his wife, Ronalyn, and his family, recognizing the sacrifices they make due to his public service commitments. He stated, "Whatever I am able to do in service is made possible in no small measure by the strength, encouragement, and understanding of my family."

Concluding his message, Atty. Torreon reiterated his resolve: "I accept your confidence not as a privilege to be enjoyed, but as a duty to be fulfilled. I will work hard to be worthy of it. I will serve with fidelity and conviction. I will do my part to strengthen PDP Laban. I will serve Region XI with dedication. And I will continue to contribute in every way I can to a stronger, safer, and better Philippines."

Photo: Ctto

02/03/2026

VP Duterte Extends Condolence to Filipina Caregiver Killed in Israel Amid US-Israel-Iran Tensions

The Philippine government confirmed on Sunday night (March 1, 2026) the death of a Filipino overseas worker (OFW) in Israel, marking the first recorded Filipino casualty amid escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The victim was identified as Mary Ann Velasquez de Vera, a 32-year-old caregiver from Basista, Pangasinan, who had been working in Israel since 2019.

According to the Philippine Embassy in Israel, de Vera was attempting to es**rt her elderly ward to a bomb shelter during an Iranian missile attack on Tel Aviv on Saturday when they were caught in an explosion before reaching safety. She was struck by shrapnel from falling ordnance, which caused her death. Her husband, also an OFW in Israel, formally identified her remains at the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute.

VP Sara Duterte issued a statement on Sunday morning (March 1, 2026), extending her heartfelt condolences to de Vera’s bereaved family and loved ones. “Ang pagpanaw ni Mary Ann ay isang matinding paghihirap para sa kanyang pamilya at para sa lahat ng mga Pilipino na umaasa sa sipag at dedikasyon ng ating mga OFW,” Duterte said. “Siya ay isang bayani na nagtrabaho nang husto para buhayin ang kanyang pamilya, at hindi natin makakalimutan ang kanyang sakripisyo.”

The Vice President emphasized the need for heightened vigilance to protect Filipinos in conflict zones and called for diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region. She also urged OFWs and their families to stay connected with Philippine embassies and consulates, and to follow all safety advisories issued by authorities. “Hinihikayat ko ang lahat ng ating mga kababayan sa Middle East na manatiling alerto, makinig sa mga opisyal na babala, at huwag mag-atubiling humingi ng tulong sa mga kinatawan ng gobyerno,” she added.

The violence follows a joint US-Israeli airstrike on Iran on Saturday that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, prompting Iran to launch retaliatory missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and Gulf states. US President Donald Trump stated that the military campaign against Iran is expected to last around four weeks and noted that 48 Iranian leaders had been eliminated in the initial strikes.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) are coordinating to process benefits for de Vera’s family. The Philippine National Police (PNP) has also placed all units on alert amid concerns over potential spillover effects of the conflict, though no specific threats have been detected locally.

Ambassador Aileen Mendiola of the Philippine Embassy in Israel conveyed condolences to de Vera’s husband and pledged continued support to Filipinos in the region. The embassy is working to ensure the safety of an estimated 30,000 Filipinos in Israel, most of whom are employed in caregiving and household roles.

Photo: Ctto

VP SARA DUTERTE