Senator Grace Poe criticized the baggage delays at NAIA Terminal 3, deeming them unacceptable and demanding swift resolution. She called for refunds for affected passengers, highlighting the mishandling of luggage as deeply disappointing. Since Oct. 18, around 800 bags have been impacted by a technical issue, prompting calls for improved baggage handling systems.
Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco highlighted the crucial role of local government units in sustainable tourism and community development at the LMP Visayas Island Cluster Conference. She emphasized collaboration for successful promotion of local and international tourism, acknowledging the Visayas’ significant contributions, and encouraged ongoing partnership for resilient community growth and resource conservation.
Former Senator Leila De Lima stated that former President Rodrigo Duterte could face prosecution for crimes against humanity due to his alleged role in extrajudicial killings during the drug war. She cited Republic Act 9851, emphasizing it applies to leaders as well as perpetrators, holds no statute of limitations, and recognizes the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court.
The “young guns” of the House of Representatives agree to undergo drug tests and psychiatric evaluations, conditional on Vice President Sara Duterte’s commitment to testify under oath regarding fund misuse allegations. They assert that accountability must be mutual, emphasizing public officials must uphold transparency while challenging Duterte to address the accusations directly.
The National Dairy Authority aims to achieve a 5% milk sufficiency target by 2028, currently at 1.54%. Plans include importing 600 dairy cattle by 2025, enhancing nutrition, and educating farmers to boost production. Five stock farms will be operational by 2025, but a budget of at least P1 billion is needed.
Oil companies will lower petroleum prices starting October 22 after three weeks of increases. Caltex, Seaoil, Unioil, and Shell will reduce gasoline by 50 centavos, diesel by 70 centavos, and kerosene by 85 centavos. The Department of Energy cites decreased conflict in the Middle East as a factor in these cuts.
The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) announced the arrest of Simon Fiaryao Naogsan Sr., a key leader of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army, by military and police forces in Northern Luzon on October 21. This significant capture is seen as a major victory against insurgent threats, highlighting effective collaboration among the government and local communities. Naogsan faces multiple murder charges, and his arrest further undermines the NPA’s influence in the region.
Tropical depression Kristine has been declared a tropical storm, and its speed has decelerated, as announced by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) earlier Tuesday. As of the latest update from PAGASA at 11 AM, the eye of the storm is estimated to be 335 km East of Virac, Catanduanes, with winds…
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity is enhancing the MNLF Transformation Program in Basilan, aiding around 400 combatants with financial support, health insurance, and educational grants for their children. Additionally, 1,963 members have been validated for benefits to ensure their transition into peaceful community contributors.
Judge Mariam Bien of Taguig City RTC convicted 17 Abu Sayyaf Group members on 21 counts of kidnapping and illegal detention, sentencing each to 840 years in prison. The group kidnapped 21 individuals in Malaysia in 2000, with ransoms demanded for their release. Notable convicted leaders included Hilarion Roel Santos III and Galib Andang.