Senator Calls for DOJ Action Against Prosecutors in Leila de Lima Acquittal Appeal

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Francis Pangilinan has called on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to impose sanctions on the prosecution panel that attempted to reverse the acquittal of Liberal Party Representative Leila de Lima. The team, which consists of ten prosecutors, initially filed a motion for reconsideration on July 14 but later retracted it on July 23 after consulting with DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla. Pangilinan stated on Saturday, \"There should be legal and administrative accountability against the 10-member panel for possible violations of ethical standards and constitutional guarantees.\" He further criticized the move as \"not only a harassment and a deliberate act of injustice against someone who has already suffered seven years of detention over baseless charges, but it is also a misuse of prosecutorial power and an affront to the judiciary.\" De Lima, a prominent government critic of former President Rodrigo Duterte, has been detained since February 2017. She faced three cases at the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court related to alleged illegal drug activities at the New Bilibid Prison. The trial court dismissed the first case in February 2021, followed by the second in May 2023, and the third in June 2024. Despite these acquittals, the Court of Appeals ruled on April 30 to remand a case back to the Muntinlupa RTC, renewing legal proceedings against De Lima. The senator's call for DOJ intervention highlights ongoing concerns about prosecutorial conduct and respect for judicial decisions in this high-profile case.

Legal Counsel Denies Blocking Honeylet Avanceña’s Visits to Duterte at ICC

Nicholas Kaufman, the legal counsel representing former President Rodrigo Duterte, has dismissed accusations from Honeylet Avanceña claiming he was responsible for preventing her from visiting Duterte at the International Criminal Court (ICC) detention center in The Hague. In a statement released on Monday, August 4, Kaufman clarified that decisions regarding visitation rights are not within the purview of legal counsel but are managed by the detention center officials, with judicial oversight when needed. He stated, \"Contrary to Ms. Avanceña’s claims, visiting rights are not determined by Counsel but rather by the detention centre authorities with the intervention of the judges when necessary.\" Avanceña, Duterte’s common-law spouse, alleged during a video interview published on August 1 that following a phone call with Duterte on July 19 — during which she reportedly made comments related to his ongoing case — she was subsequently barred from visiting him. However, Avanceña denied discussing any legal matters concerning Duterte’s case during that phone call and expressed her lack of access to legal counsel or pertinent case information. Addressing Kaufman directly, she stated, \"I have nothing against you. Pero please do not deprive us of asking legal opinions from other lawyers. We acknowledge you as his lawyer.\" She further suggested that Kaufman’s actions might be motivated by concerns over his legal practice, emphasizing their primary concern for Duterte’s welfare. \"I know you are protecting your lawyer practice. I don’t know if you’re trying to prove something pero kami, we are concerned about the life of this man,\" Avanceña said. Avanceña also made an emotional appeal to Kaufman, stressing her worries about Duterte’s mental state and urging to be allowed to visit him for his sake. \"Maawa ka naman… I am 110% sure na may depression na ‘yan. Ngayon dine-deprive mo ako na mabisita siya at least may makausap siya na family,\" she said. In response, Kaufman reiterated that Duterte’s health is under continuous and careful supervision by those who maintain daily contact with the former president. \"The former President’s health is being carefully managed and monitored by all those with whom he has daily contact,\" Kaufman affirmed.

Oriental Mindoro Representative Arnan Panaligan Appointed Deputy Majority Leader

Calapan Mayor Doy Leachon has expressed his strong support and pride following the appointment of Oriental Mindoro First District Representative Arnan Panaligan as Deputy Majority Leader of the 20th Congress of the Philippines. In his new role, Panaligan is set to lead plenary session deliberations and serve as an ex-officio member of all House committees. Leachon, who previously served as Senior Deputy Speaker, welcomed Panaligan’s elevation, emphasizing the significance of having another prominent Mindoreño taking on an influential position in the House of Representatives. "It is a great honor to see one of our own assume a leadership role in Congress," Leachon remarked. "May this appointment serve as a catalyst for the growth and development of our province, something we have long aspired toward." The mayor also called on his fellow Calapeños to extend their heartfelt congratulations to Congressman Panaligan, highlighting the pride this achievement brings to the community. Panaligan’s leadership is anticipated to enhance Oriental Mindoro’s representation and influence in national legislative affairs. This advancement reflects not only Panaligan’s capabilities but also the growing political prominence of Oriental Mindoro within the country’s legislative landscape.

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Trump’s Pursuit of Nobel Peace Prize Sparks Debate Amid Renewed Peace Efforts

President Donald Trump’s ambition for the Nobel Peace Prize has resurfaced as a mix of international aspirations, enduring rivalry with Barack Obama, and strategic provocations fuel his pursuit of the prestigious award. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt affirmed on July 31 that "it’s well past time that President Trump was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize," citing an average of one peace deal or ceasefire brokered per month since Trump’s return to office on January 20. She referenced mediations involving India and Pakistan, Cambodia and Thailand, Egypt and Ethiopia, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Serbia and Kosovo among others. Leavitt also pointed to Trump's military actions against Iran’s nuclear sites as contributing to global peace, though she notably omitted commentary on the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Support for Trump’s nomination has come from unexpected quarters. Pakistan and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have both nominated the former president. During a July White House gathering, leaders from Liberia, Senegal, Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau, and Gabon voiced support when asked if Trump merited the prize, to which Trump responded optimistically: "We could do this all day long." Nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize, which are accepted by the Norwegian Nobel Committee appointed by the Norwegian Parliament, close on January 31, with the winner announced on October 10 this year. Among those endorsing Trump is Anat Alon-Beck, an Israeli-American law professor at Case Western Reserve University, who praised his “extraordinary leadership” and "strategic brilliance" in advancing peace and securing hostage releases in the Gaza Strip. However, critics remain highly skeptical. Emma Shortis, a US history and politics researcher, likened nominating Trump to "entering a hyena in a dog show," firmly asserting that Trump is undeserving of the honor. Trump, for his part, maintains that he merits the prize but will never receive it. In February, while hosting Netanyahu, he lamented missing the opportunity to claim the Nobel Peace Prize. Later, on his social media platform Truth Social, he expressed frustration over what he views as disregard for his diplomatic efforts regarding Russia/Ukraine and Israel/Iran conflicts, emphasizing that "the people know, and that’s all that matters to me!" Analysts note Trump’s affinity for recognition and accolades, with Garret Martin, an international relations professor at American University, highlighting that Trump has persistently positioned himself in opposition to Obama, whose controversial 2009 Nobel Peace Prize continues to evoke debate. In October 2024, during the presidential campaign's final phase, Trump complained, "If I were named Obama I would have had the Nobel Prize given to me in 10 seconds." Historically, four US presidents — Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Jimmy Carter, and Barack Obama — have received the Nobel Peace Prize. Henry Kissinger was also awarded in 1973, a decision that sparked significant criticism. The complete list of Nobel Peace Prize candidates is typically confidential, though sponsors may disclose nominations. This year, the Nobel Committee is considering 338 nominees. Among frontrunners are Trump and Yulia Navalnaya, widow of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny, according to betting odds. The announcement of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize winner is anticipated on October 10, as the global community watches closely to see if Trump’s renewed peace efforts will earn the esteemed accolade.

Senator Sotto Proposes Creation of Presidential Drug Enforcement Authority to Overhaul Anti-Drug Efforts

Senate Minority Leader Vicente "Tito" Sotto III has refiled legislation that seeks to create the Presidential Drug Enforcement Authority (PRDEA), a new agency intended to revamp the government’s approach to combating illegal drugs. The bill proposes the abolition of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), consolidating their functions into the PRDEA while amending the existing Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act 9165), which Sotto originally authored. In the explanatory note accompanying the bill, Sotto emphasized the need to update the law, stating, "The law, as presently formulated, needs retrofitting, so to speak, like any structure or machine in constant use for 23 years now." He underscored the importance of improved supervision in enforcement to develop more effective policies against illegal drugs. Under the proposed measure, drug enforcement responsibilities currently held by PDEA will be reassigned to multiple agencies, including the Philippine National Police (PNP) through its Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Force and other narcotics units; the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) via its respective task forces; the Bureau of Customs through its specialized task forces; and the Armed Forces’ narcotics units. The PRDEA would absorb existing operational units from PDEA as necessary to provide technical support within appropriate bureaus. However, both PDEA and DDB have voiced opposition to the creation of the PRDEA, warning that adding a new agency might be counterproductive to the government's ongoing anti-drug campaign. Sotto criticized the current strategy for focusing predominantly on enforcement and prosecution, which he claims has resulted in significant casualties and case dismissals. He argued that essential components such as prevention and rehabilitation, which involve the Department of Education and Department of Health, have been inadequately addressed. He advocates for integrating the four key elements of the drug epidemic response—enforcement, prosecution, prevention, and rehabilitation—within a single supervisory agency to synchronize efforts and ensure accountability. "Since these four must be in sync, a supervisory agency has to step in to monitor, coordinate and ensure that the concerned government agencies mandated to perform several duties under Republic Act No. 9165 are doing their mandate effectively," Sotto said. The bill aims to overhaul and unify the government’s drug control efforts to enhance effectiveness and address the multifaceted nature of the drug problem more comprehensively.

Integrated Bar of the Philippines Emphasizes Rule of Law Following Supreme Court Ruling on Impeachment

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines has issued a statement affirming the significance of the rule of law as the foundation of democracy in light of the Supreme Court's decision in Duterte v. House of Representatives. The organization emphasized that true democratic governance is defined not by the mere assertion of power but by adherence to legal frameworks. Highlighting the Supreme Court's pivotal role as the final interpreter of constitutional issues, the Integrated Bar stated that the Court's responsibility includes defining legal boundaries and clarifying constitutional implications, even when revisiting established precedents or addressing politically sensitive issues such as impeachment. This judicial authority functions within a system of checks and balances designed to prevent the overreach of any government branch. The statement further recognizes the exclusive jurisdiction of the House of Representatives to initiate impeachment proceedings, acknowledging its vital role in upholding political accountability. However, it stressed that the political nature of impeachment does not exempt it from constitutional judicial review. "To uphold the Constitution is to uphold each of its mandates equally whether judicial, legislative, or executive," the Integrated Bar declared. They called for respect toward both the House's impeachment powers and the Supreme Court's constitutional duty to interpret the law. Acknowledging that dissent against the Court's decisions is a natural and necessary aspect of democracy, the statement warned against public calls to reject or defy the Court's authority. Such actions, it cautioned, undermine democratic institutions and threaten the delicate balance of power. The organization stressed that the Constitution requires faithful adherence to its provisions regardless of agreement with specific rulings. In closing, the Integrated Bar reinforced that defending legal processes is essential not only to protect government institutions but also to uphold the sovereignty of the people from whom all authority originates.

Celebrity-turned-Politician Seeks to Sell Luxury Resort Following Election Loss

Following a surprising and decisive loss in the recent elections, a prominent celebrity-turned-politician is quietly attempting to sell one of his most valuable properties—a luxury resort located in Puerto Galera, south of Manila. Sources reveal that the resort, once a preferred venue for celebrities and exclusive gatherings, is now being discreetly offered to affluent buyers. This development marks the latest in a series of asset sales by the politician, who has previously parted with a lavish mansion in Quezon City, a mountain retreat in Tagaytay, as well as a collection of luxury watches, vehicles, and a yacht. It appears these disposals were made in an effort to sustain an extravagant lifestyle and cover costly gambling habits. Insiders suggest that the politician had pinned hopes on a political resurgence to restore his financial standing. His early campaign efforts yielded strong name recognition and favorable survey results, attracting considerable donor support. "He was overly confident in his victory and stopped campaigning weeks before the election. That proved to be a costly error," a close observer commented. In the wake of his electoral downfall, the politician now faces pressing financial challenges, with liquidity issues reportedly forcing him to sell prized assets in a bid to stabilize his economic condition.

House Minority Bloc Elects Leaders and Committee Chairpersons

The House Minority bloc has formally chosen its leadership team along with chairpersons for the committees under its jurisdiction. House Minority Leader and 4Ps party-list Representative Marcelino Libanan spearheaded the nominations. Among the appointments, Bicol Saro party-list Representative Terry Ridon was named chairperson of the Committee on Public Accounts, while 4Ps party-list Representative JC Abalos was selected to head the Committee on Ethics and Privileges. Libanan also designated Caloocan City Representative Edgar Erice as the senior Deputy Minority Leader. Other Deputy Minority Leaders appointed include PHILRECA party-list Representative Presley De Jesus, APEC party-list Representative Sergio Dagooc, Dinagat Islands Representative Kaka Bag-ao, Samar Representative Stephen James Tan, Mamamayang Liberal Representative Leila De Lima, Akbayan party-list Representative Perci Cendaña, ACT Teachers Representative Antonio Tinio, Quezon City Representative Bong Suntay, Pusong Pinoy Representative Jernie Jett Nisay, Samar Representative Reynolds Michael Tan, and Albay Representative Krisel Lagman. Additionally, the bloc elected several Assistant Minority Leaders: Eastern Samar Representative Christopher Cheen Gonzales, Kabataan Representative Renne Louise Co, Akbayan Representative Chel Diokno, BH party-list Representative Robert Nazal, Northern Samar Representative Niko Raul Daza, Galing sa Puso party-list Representative Jan Rurik Padiernos, Bukidnon Representative Audrey Kay Zubiri, and 4K party-list Representative Iris Marie Montes. These leadership roles are expected to guide the minority bloc's legislative agenda and oversight functions within the House of Representatives.

Senator Lacson Advocates for Passage of Anti-Political Dynasty Bill

Senator Panfilo Lacson is championing the Anti-Political Dynasty Act of 2025, which seeks to implement the 1987 Constitution’s provision that ensures equal access to public office and restricts political dynasties. In a radio interview, Lacson detailed Senate Bill No. 35, which prohibits spouses or relatives up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity of an incumbent seeking reelection from running for office within the same city or province during the same election cycle. The senator emphasized, "This proposed measure aims to balance the electorate’s sovereignty with the need to curtail political dynasties. It aligns with the constitutional principle that laws must be interpreted in a way that breathes life rather than kills the spirit of democratic participation." Specifically, the bill bars the spouse or any close relative—whether legitimate or illegitimate—from simultaneously holding or running for an elective position in the same locality as the incumbent. It also extends this prohibition to two or more individuals with political dynasty ties seeking office concurrently within the same city or province, even if neither is directly related to the incumbent. Lacson highlighted the longstanding absence of legislation to enforce the Constitution’s anti-political dynasty clause. "Dominant political families have transformed government roles into their exclusive domains, creating localized monopolies and undermining electoral fairness," he stated. "Despite multiple attempts since the 8th Congress to enact reforms, no law restricting political dynasties has been passed." The senator recently accepted the chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Electoral Reforms and People's Participation, a position offered by Senate leadership to bolster efforts toward comprehensive electoral reforms.