The agreement, signed by Acting Presidential Communications Secretary Dave M. Gomez, DICT Secretary Henry R. Aguda, and Acting Justice Secretary Frederick A. Vida, establishes a whole-of-government approach to curb false information that threatens public safety, national security, and democratic institutions.

After the MOA signing held at the DOJ office, Gomez underscored the urgency of the initiative, saying, “We are confronting a rapidly evolving information landscape where truth is increasingly vulnerable to distortion and manipulation.”

The PCO chief emphasized that the effort protects public discourse, adding, “This initiative is not about curtailing free expression, but about safeguarding the Filipino people from malicious actors who exploit technology to deceive and divide.”

The MOA mandates joint efforts to detect, investigate, and prosecute deliberate online falsehoods under existing laws, including the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and the Data Privacy Act of 2012.

For his part, Vida said, “Today marks a pivotal step in safeguarding our democracy from the shadows of digital disinformation.”

Vida warned that “Digitally mediated falsehoods… have emerged as potent weapons against our national stability.”

The acting justice secretary noted that enforcement will respect rights, saying, “Our commitment is clear: proactive defense, not overreach. We draw a firm line between criminal disinformation and protected speech.”

Secretary Aguda highlighted the evolving nature of threats, noting, “Hindi na ito simpleng tsismis. Ngayon, kasinungalingan can look real… divide, and erode public trust when clarity is most needed.”

Aguda emphasized shared accountability, adding, “This is not just government acting on its own. This is a national responsibility.”

The PCO will lead government communications, advisories, and media literacy campaigns, while the DICT will engage technology platforms, strengthen cybersecurity, and support reporting systems such as eGovPH.

On the other hand, the DOJ will evaluate cases for prosecution and coordinate international action against transnational disinformation.

An inter-agency steering committee will oversee implementation, ensure data protection, and publish annual reports.

The MOA affirms that all actions will uphold constitutional freedoms while promoting transparency, accountability, and public awareness.

The Stratbase Institute on Monday said it “firmly rejects” proposals for joint energy exploration with Beijing, citing China’s track record of “consistently acting in bad faith.”

“A state that persistently disregards international law and violates Philippine sovereign rights cannot be expected to honor any agreement. Entering into such a partnership would expose the country to unnecessary risk,” said Stratbase President and CEO Victor “Andres” Manhit.

Instead of pursuing joint exploration with China, Manhit called on the government to adopt “clear and decisive measures” to strengthen the country’s position in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). These include the full implementation of Executive Order No. 111, which assigns Philippine names to 131 features in the Kalayaan Island Group—an assertion of sovereignty.

He also urged the government to prioritize energy development through partnerships with “like-minded states” and credible Filipino private sector players with proven expertise.

The statement comes after the Marcos administration signaled openness to joint gas exploration with China, particularly in the western portion of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, as global energy concerns intensify.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said the ongoing crisis in the Middle East—triggered by Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil route—could serve as an “impetus” for potential agreements on joint exploration in disputed areas of the South China Sea.

However, Manhit stressed that energy security must not come at the expense of sovereignty.

“No crisis should be used to justify compromising the Philippines’ legal position or ignoring the lived realities of Filipino fisherfolk and frontliners who continue to bear the consequences of China’s actions in the WPS,” he said.

He emphasized that any discussions on energy cooperation must be anchored in international law, particularly the 2016 Arbitral Award that invalidated China’s sweeping claims over the South China Sea.

China, however, continues to reject the ruling and assert its “nine-dash line” claim, with Chinese Coast Guard vessels frequently accused of restricting access to areas such as Scarborough Shoal through what Philippine officials describe as “illegal, coercive, and aggressive actions.”

Manhit also cited repeated incidents involving damage to Philippine vessels and risks posed to Filipino personnel and civilians, describing these as part of China’s continued efforts to assert unlawful control over Philippine maritime territory.

“These rights are non-negotiable,” he said. “All resources must remain under full Philippine ownership, control, and supervision. Any arrangement that creates ambiguity or undermines these rights is unacceptable.”

In a short press release issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) dated February 28, Assistant Secretary for Asian and Pacific Affairs Marshall Louis Alferez met with Chinese counterparts Asian Affairs Director-General Liu Jinsong and Boundary and Ocean Affairs Director-General Hou Yanqi in Beijing from February 27 to 28.

“Both sides had an open and candid exchange of views on prevailing bilateral concerns, and explored ways to advance mutually-beneficial cooperation,” the DFA said.

Alferez also paid a courtesy call on Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong to discuss the overall state of bilateral relations. The Beijing meetings followed initial talks held in Cebu on January 29, signaling continued diplomatic engagement despite mounting friction.

Maritime flashpoints persist

The talks come against the backdrop of fragile and tense relations entering early 2026.

Incidents around Second Thomas Shoal, Sabina Shoal, Scarborough Shoal, and Thitu Island have continued through 2024 and 2025, including ramming and water cannon episodes that injured Filipino personnel and damaged vessels.

As recently as February, reports described another collision near the Spratlys, underscoring the high-risk close encounters between Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels and Philippine boats.

Manila has repeatedly protested what it calls “dangerous” and “aggressive” maneuvers, while stepping up joint patrols and exercises with partners such as the United States, Japan, Australia, and India.

Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Philippines has taken a more assertive stance in defending maritime rights, publicizing incidents at sea and deepening defense ties with allies — moves Beijing has criticized as exacerbating tensions.

Economic pressure adds new layer

Beyond maritime friction, the relationship has also been strained economically.

In mid-February, the DFA publicly rebuked the Chinese embassy after it warned that continued “affronts” to bilateral ties could result in trade and investment consequences, including possible job losses for Filipinos. Philippine officials characterized the remarks as “coercive” and summoned the Chinese ambassador.

Beijing, for its part, has criticized what it calls “anti-China” rhetoric and resolutions by Philippine politicians, reflecting its sensitivity to domestic debates in Manila.

Despite strategic distrust and frequent tactical clashes at sea, both sides have agreed in principle to create a “roadmap” for managing South China Sea incidents and preventing escalation, according to earlier statements in January.

Chinese officials have also pointed to what they describe as “new progress” in cooperation on visas, law enforcement, people-to-people exchanges, and infrastructure. Embassy briefings have emphasized a “words for words, actions for actions” approach and called for more direct communication channels between coast guards.

The latest Beijing talks suggest that even as maritime encounters continue, diplomatic channels remain active.

Both Manila and Beijing have expressed support for accelerating negotiations between ASEAN and China on a South China Sea Code of Conduct, with an aspirational target of concluding talks around 2026.

As the Philippines assumes the ASEAN chairmanship this year, the Marcos administration faces the delicate task of balancing de-escalation efforts with China while sustaining its strategy of strengthening defense and security partnerships with like-minded states.

In a statement posted on X, President Marcos directed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to take the necessary steps to check on the situation of Filipinos in Iran and the Middle East.

“We have received reports of airstrikes that hit Iran. We are in the process of getting more information,” the President said.

“In the meantime, the safety of Filipino citizens in Iran and in the Middle East is paramount. I have instructed the DFA and the DMW to take measures to determine their whereabouts in affected areas and to take immediate measures to ensure their safety,” President Marcos added.

The DFA has reported that there are no Filipinos affected or harmed. The DFA has assured that Embassies stand ready to assist our nationals. “We continue to advise Filipinos to stay in their homes or safe places and refrain from going out to public places at this time,” it said.

According to PCC’s Competition Enforcement Office (CEO), evidence points to violations of Section 14(a)(2) of the Philippine Competition Act involving certain flood control contracts under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 1st District Engineering Office in Bulacan. Investigators found indications that contractors coordinated pre-determined winning and losing bids, while several DPWH personnel allegedly facilitated the arrangement.

PCC formally transmitted the case to DOJ on November 14, in line with DOJ Department Circular No. 015 (2024) and DC No. 20 (2023). The DOJ will determine whether further case build-up is necessary or if the matter will proceed directly to preliminary investigation.

Bid-rigging is a prohibited practice that inflates project costs, undermines competition, and wastes taxpayer resources. PCC affirmed its continued support for the DOJ process as part of its mandate to protect competitive markets and safeguard public interest.

According to the survey conducted from September 24 to 30, 2025, 56% of respondents said reducing the prices of rice and other food products should be the government’s top priority. Coming in second, 31% urged the administration to address corruption — underscoring the public’s demand for both economic relief and good governance.

The poll, which covered 1,500 respondents nationwide with a ±3% margin of error, found that concern over rising food prices cuts across regions, particularly in the Visayas (61%) and Mindanao (61%). More Filipinos in rural areas (57%) than in urban centers (54%) expressed concern over food affordability, reflecting how inflation continues to hurt lower-income households the most.

Meanwhile, corruption ranked second among Filipinos’ top concerns, with the highest share of responses from Metro Manila (45%), followed by Balance Luzon (32%) and the Visayas (31%)—indicating a widespread clamor for transparency and accountability in government spending.

“This survey highlights the urgent reality that Filipinos are still struggling to afford basic food,” said Prof. Victor Andres ‘Dindo’ Manhit, President of the Stratbase Group. “The more they cannot afford essentials like rice, the more they demand concrete reforms against corruption—issues that the President himself has repeatedly raised before the public.”

Manhit stressed that Filipinos are sending a clear message: address inflation and food insecurity while ensuring transparency and accountability in government spending.

“Filipinos demand that their hard-earned taxes be put to good use—allocated to the right projects, funding essential services, and making a real difference in their lives and those of their families,” he added.

Other issues cited by respondents include education (7%) and healthcare (4%), while 3% said they were undecided.

Manhit emphasized that the findings reflect a growing public demand for responsive and ethical leadership.

“This is an opportunity for the administration to recalibrate its priorities,” he said. “Filipinos want policies that directly ease the burden of high living costs while implementing reforms to eliminate corruption.”

As concerns grow over the weakening of electoral and political institutions in the country, more than 200 observers from European Union and non-EU states are set to monitor the Philippines’ May 12, 2025 midterm elections, marking one of the largest international observation missions deployed by the EU in the last three decades.

Seventy-two long-term election observers from the European Union are already in the Philippines, following an invitation from the Philippine government.

At a media briefing held in Makati last week, Marta Temido, Chief Observer of the EU Election Observation Mission (EU EOM), said: “This will be the first deployment of an EU Election Observation Mission in the country, marking an important step toward stronger EU-Philippines relations. Our presence aims to contribute to an inclusive, transparent, and credible election.”

Temido lauded the Philippine government’s openness to international scrutiny, noting the support of various stakeholders, including the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman and Commissioners, government officials, political parties and candidates, civil society groups, and the media.

“We are here [in the Philippines] to learn about the election by observing and without interfering in the process and at the same time, we are not here to legitimize the results of the election,” she said.

The EU EOM has already begun its work, with a core team of 12 analysts arriving in Manila on March 28, followed by the 72 long-term observers.

Ahead of election day, more than 100 additional short-term observers will join, culminating in over 200 observers on the ground on May 12. This includes a Delegation from the European Parliament and approximately 20 diplomats accredited in the Philippines from EU member states, as well as from Canada, Norway, and Switzerland.

Beyond the voting process itself, the mission’s mandate covers a wide range of critical areas:

• The legal framework governing the elections
• The management of the electoral process by the Comelec
• The use and integrity of automated election technology
• The general campaign environment, including the role of media and social media
• Voting and the tallying of results
• Handling of election-related complaints and appeals

Temido said that the EU’s Election Observation Missions are “a fundamental component of the European Union activities to promote democracy, human rights, and civil society participation worldwide.”

“Our core principles are independence, neutrality, impartiality, non-interference, cooperation, and partnership with the host country and its citizens. These principles guide us throughout the mission. Election Observation is the legacy of the EU,” she said.

Initial findings based on the observations will be released on May 14, two days after the elections. A final, comprehensive report, complete with recommendations for future electoral processes in the Philippines, will be presented to national stakeholders and made public at a later date.

Speaking before members of the Northwestern Mindanao Front-Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (NWMF-BIAF-MILF) on Saturday, April 26, the former senator underscored the need to end hunger and champion inclusivity in a bid to bring progress and development to the region. 

“Napakahalaga ng adhikaing (A very important objective is) from arms to farms. Naniniwala ako (I believe) the future of the Philippines when it comes to peace and prosperity cannot happen unless we invest in agriculture and food,” Pangilinan told the crowd.

“Walang kapayapaan kung ang mga kababayan natin ay gutom. Walang kapayapaan kung ang ating magsasaka at mangingisda ay kapos. Walang kapayapaan kapag mataas ang mga presyo ng bilihin at pagkain. Kinakailangan ayusin natin ang pagkakalam ng ating mga sikmura (There is no peace if our people are hungry. There is peace if our farmers and fishermen are poor. There is no peace if the prices of food and commodities are high. We need to fix the growling of our stomach) and food security is critical if we are to move toward peace progress and development,” he added. 

In his meeting with Hon. Abdullah “Bravo” Macapaar, Al-Hajj, front commander of the NWMF-BIAF of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and member of the BARMM parliament, the former senator and food security czar discussed the implementation of the Sagip Saka Act and his proposed “Libreng Almusal (Free Breakfast)” program in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The Sagip Saka Act, signed in 2019, was a fulfillment of his campaign promise in 2016 to expand market access for farmers and fisherfolk. 

The law allows national and local governments to purchase food directly from farmers and fisherfolk without the need for public bidding and without the restrictions of the procurement law. 

His proposed “Libreng Almusal” program, on the other hand, will provide free breakfast meals to schoolchildren—from daycare to senior high school—in public schools, wherein half of the budget must be allocated for the purchase of food items from local farmers and fisherfolk. 

In pushing for food security and the lower prices of food if he wins in next month’s polls, the former senator underscored the importance of unity despite the differences in faith and political colors. 

“We are all Filipinos regardless of our faith, and for us to move forward, unity is (unclear) and for us to be united, we must be able to understand one another. And for us to be able to understand one another, we must have conversations. We must converse and exchange ideas, we must share what we value, we must together forge a path of peace for our nation,” he said. 

He also appealed to the NWMF-BIAF-MILF members for support, saying that the Philippines needs leaders who can be trusted and who have a track record in good governance.  

“I come in peace. I also come to appeal to you that on May 12, 2025, for us to be able to move forward, we need leaders who we can trust, leaders who have word of honor, leaders whose track record is not one of abuse of corruption but leaders whose track record is of honesty, good governance, and genuine service,” Pangilinan said.

“I come to you and appeal to you as a candidate. I believe it is my solemn duty as a candidate to win for the sake of good governance, for the sake of peace, and for the sake of unity. And I pray that you, too, will embrace this cause,” he added. 

With 16 days left before Election Day, the former official urged the community to understand the power of their one vote. 

“Sixteen days, eleksyon na. Tayo nasa Top 12, pero lima kami, so every vote counts. Pakiusap po natin, ilabas sa Facebook, Tiktok ang ating pag suporta sa aking kandidatura (It’s sixteen days before election. We are in the Top 12, but five of us are tied so every vote counts. We request that you openly campaign for us and show your support for our candidacy in Facebook and Tiktok),” he appealed. 

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he made history as the first pope from Latin America and the first non-European pope in over a millennium.

As the first Jesuit pope, Pope Francis was a member of the Society of Jesus, a Catholic religious order renowned for its commitment to education and missionary work.

He was widely admired for his humility and simple lifestyle, both before and during his papacy—choosing to live in a modest apartment, preparing his own meals, and relying on public transportation rather than luxury vehicles.

When a certain government official was appointed to a position that required expertise he seemed to lack, insiders were quick to raise their eyebrows. Career officers and long-time employees of the agency whispered that the official was far past the age for such an assignment and should be focusing on “APO-stolate” (spending time with his grandkids).

But little did they know, the official had more in mind than a quiet retirement. It turns out, he saw a golden opportunity in the unlimited travel perks that came with the position. With business-class flights and frequent overseas trips, he took full advantage of the perks, ignoring the government’s austerity measures.

But it wasn’t just the luxury travel that raised suspicions. His bullying behavior toward staff, especially long-serving officers, became notorious. This overbearing attitude didn’t sit well with the agency’s veteran employees, who had enough of the entitled official’s antics. They banded together to figure out how to oust him.

Apart from the trips and the intimidation tactics that raised red flags, some staff members began noticing his “klepto” tendencies. Items from the office, small but noticeable, kept disappearing and seemed to end up in his personal collection.

The tipping point came when CCTV footage surfaced, showing him in compromising situations. Top government officials were shown the footage, and a meeting was arranged to confront the official. The videos, which could have been disastrous if leaked, were the final straw. Faced with the undeniable evidence, the official reluctantly agreed to tender his resignation, knowing full well that being exposed could ruin his reputation.