Ombudsman to Issue Arrest Warrants for High-Profile Officials by Mid-December

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed on Sunday that arrest warrants against several high-ranking figures are expected to be released by December 15. Speaking during an interview on Facts First, Remulla identified former and current senators among those potentially facing charges, including Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero, Joel Villanueva, Jinggoy Estrada, Ramon ‘Bong’ Revilla Jr., and Nancy Binay. Remulla indicated that affidavits have been signed, notably by former Usec. Roberto Bernardo, signaling imminent legal moves. "[Former] Usec. [Roberto] Bernardo has already signed his affidavit... I think there will be a warrant for that by December 15," he stated in Filipino. The Ombudsman warned these officials to stop evading accountability, as authorities closely monitor their activities. Also listed among those subject to arrest are resigned Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co and tech entrepreneur and former special envoy to China Maynard Ngu. He further explained that investigations continue on certain congressmen, with ongoing assessments relating to conflict-of-interest accusations. "Although these are non-bailable, this is also a serious case because if we find malversation, it is also non-bailable," Remulla remarked. In addition, Senator Mark Villar, along with former senators Sonny Angara and Grace Poe, are under scrutiny, as part of an initial group of over 20 lawmakers facing charges. The probe extends to company incorporators implicated in prohibited transactions, including spouses Pacifico ‘Curlee’ and Cezarah Rowena ‘Sara’ Discaya. Remulla's announcement underscores the intensifying crackdown on alleged corruption within the government, with law enforcement poised to take decisive action before the holiday season.

De Lima Calls for Transparency in Flood Control Investigation, Urges ICI to Livestream Proceedings

House Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal party-list Representative Leila De Lima has called on the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to fulfill its promise of livestreaming its investigation into the flood control controversy. This appeal follows recommendations from the ICI and the Department of Public Works and Highways to file charges against former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and former Ako Bicol party-list representative Elizaldy Co. De Lima emphasized the importance of hearing directly from the President, noting that the administration has pledged to thoroughly investigate all involved parties based on evidence, without exemptions—even extending to allies, relatives, and the Office of the President itself. She stated, \"It is commendable to hear this commitment from the President himself, as it challenges his administration to investigate everyone implicated based on evidence, with no one exempted, including his allies, family members, and even the Office of the President.\" Urging vigilance, De Lima remarked, \"We must continue to follow these developments closely and with the utmost alertness.\" She further highlighted the role of the Office of the Ombudsman, calling on it to promptly assess the evidence and ensure that any filed cases are supported by substantial proof. Pending the approval of the proposed Independent Commission Against Infrastructure Corruption (ICAIC) bill—which De Lima co-authored and which she urges the President to certify as urgent—the ICI must maintain transparency by livestreaming its proceedings. \"Given the numerous investigations still required, concealing these proceedings from the public undermines transparency. The people's trust is at stake; they should not feel misled or ignored,\" De Lima asserted. She concluded by emphasizing that the public has been the victim and continues to bear the consequences, thus they must be included in uncovering the truth and holding those accountable. \"The people have been robbed. The people are suffering. They deserve to be part of the process to identify the truth and pursue those responsible.\"

Brazilian Supreme Court Orders Jair Bolsonaro to Begin 27-Year Prison Sentence

Brazil's Supreme Court has directed former president Jair Bolsonaro to start serving a 27-year prison sentence after confirming all his legal appeals have been exhausted. Bolsonaro, aged 70, was convicted in September for attempting to prevent President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva from taking office after the 2022 elections. Prosecutors revealed that the conspiracy even involved plans to assassinate Lula but ultimately failed when senior military officials declined to back the plot. Once a prominent figure within Brazil's right-wing politics and a former army captain, Bolsonaro is now detained in a small, secure room at police headquarters in Brasilia. The facility includes a bed, air conditioning, television, and a mini-fridge. Bolsonaro had been confined under house arrest until authorities discovered he tampered with his ankle monitor using a soldering iron. Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes cited "serious signs" that Bolsonaro was preparing to flee, referencing a planned vigil outside his residence and the nearby location of the U.S. Embassy. Given Bolsonaro's connections to former U.S. President Donald Trump, concerns arose that he might attempt to seek asylum. Bolsonaro denied any intention to escape, attributing his actions to "paranoia" induced by medication and previously describing his tampering as an act of mere "curiosity." The court also decreed that Bolsonaro be kept in a secure officers’ room designated for protected detainees. Additionally, it instructed a military tribunal to evaluate whether he should be stripped of his army captain rank. His attorney, Paulo Cunha Bueno, decried the decision as unexpected and stated plans to pursue another appeal despite the court's final ruling. Bolsonaro’s defense raised health concerns, citing complications from a 2018 stabbing incident and ongoing gastric issues causing chronic hiccups and fainting spells, arguing for house arrest. The court rejected these requests. His family echoed concerns over his condition; his son, Carlos Bolsonaro, described him as "extremely fragile and psychologically devastated," noting poor appetite. Politically, Bolsonaro maintains his innocence and frames his imprisonment as political persecution. His detention leaves Brazil’s conservative faction without a clear leader heading into the 2026 presidential elections, where Lula, now 80 and a former prisoner himself—having spent 18 months incarcerated for corruption before his conviction was overturned—has announced plans to run again.

Gilas Pilipinas Young Core Seen as Key to Long-Term Success, Says Coach Tim Cone

During a send-off dinner held last Monday night at the VIP Lounge of the Upper Deck Sports Center in Ortigas, Pasig, Gilas Pilipinas' young prospects—Kai Sotto, Dwight Ramos, Carl Tamayo, and Kevin Quiambao—shared a lighthearted moment amid preparations for the FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers. Close by, National Coach Tim Cone expressed optimism about the team’s future if this core remains intact. He drew parallels between the group and Iran's Hamed Haddadi-led team that dominated Asian basketball throughout the 2000s and early 2010s. \"That\'s the sense (bright future) we have with all of these guys. Kai\'s 24. We got Kevin, who\'s still 25 or 24. Carl\'s 24. I mean, we still got some really young guys that have not even approached their prime yet and you usually don\'t approach your prime as a basketball player until you\'re about 29 or 30,\" Cone remarked. \"So, imagine how good they can be if they stick together and play together over a set of years. Not just a set of windows but a set of years. Imagine how good this team can be.\" He further added, \"It kind of reminds me of the old Iran team. If you remember with Haddadi and that whole group that stayed together for like seven, eight, nine years and they just started dominating Asia after a while and they were going to all the big tournaments around the world because they were qualifying in everything.\" The quartet—Sotto, Ramos, Tamayo, and Quiambao—have all been named by Cone to the final 12-man roster. They are scheduled to face Jericho Cruz and the Guam team in Group A action tomorrow at the UOG Calvo Field House in Guam. Following that, Gilas Pilipinas is set for a rematch against Guam on December 1 at the Blue Eagle Gym. For Coach Cone, the emphasis remains on building a cohesive, long-term unit rather than focusing solely on immediate results.

Calapan Mayor Doy Leachon Celebrates 25 Years as a Licensed Lawyer

Calapan City Mayor Doy Leachon recently celebrated a significant milestone—marking 25 years since his official admission to the Bar. In a heartfelt social media message, he reflected on how his legal license opened doors for him to serve as legal counsel at Malacañang and as a legal officer in Calapan City before transitioning into elected office. Leachon expressed pride in managing to achieve these career milestones while supporting his family. He acknowledged the challenges along the way, describing the experience as both demanding and memorable. Highlighting the importance of resilience, he shared, \"Today marks a notable achievement in my career—25 years since I was officially recognized as a lawyer and joined this esteemed profession, which paved the way for my roles in Malacañang and the Calapan City government, and ultimately my journey in public service. Accomplishing all this while providing for my family and fulfilling my dreams is truly a proud chapter in my life.\" He added, \"The path wasn’t easy, but it is one filled with meaningful memories, and I hope this serves as an inspiration for everyone to persevere and make their dreams attainable.\" Leachon’s message underscores his dedication to both his profession and public service, encouraging others to remain steadfast in pursuing their goals despite difficulties.

Comelec Affirms Arrest Warrant Against Porac Mayor Unrelated to Disqualification Case

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, clarified that the recently issued arrest warrant against Porac, Pampanga Mayor Jaime Capil does not affect the pending disqualification case concerning the May 2025 elections.\n\nComelec Chairman George Garcia emphasized in an interview that the electoral body treats the criminal charges and the administrative disqualification case as separate matters. "The court's action regarding a criminal case has no effect on us. That's a separate case altogether," Garcia stated. He further explained, "For us, what is pending is a purely administrative case for disqualification."\n\nThe arrest warrant was issued by the Pasig City Regional Trial Court in connection with allegations involving illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) activities in Porac.\n\nIn late May 2025, the Comelec Second Division ordered Capil's disqualification, citing his dismissal by the Office of the Ombudsman the previous month for gross neglect of duty. In response, Capil filed a motion for reconsideration (MR) before the Comelec en banc.\n\nChairman Garcia revealed that the Comelec en banc is currently deliberating on the motion and that a decision may be released imminently. "The case is currently being resolved by the en banc... Let’s see what the en banc's decision will be, whether the decision by the division will be affirmed or reversed," he said.\n\nHe assured the public that the commission is prioritizing the matter and expects a ruling soon. "We just want to guarantee that the Comelec is prioritizing it. The decision on that matter could be released anytime," Garcia added.

Zelenskyy Describes US-Ukrainian Peace Plan as "Looking Better" Amid Complex Territorial Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has indicated that the developing peace plan under negotiation with the United States is showing signs of improvement, describing it as "looking better." Despite this progress, he emphasized that the most formidable obstacle remains the question of Ukraine's territorial integrity. During a joint press conference in Paris alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, Zelenskyy shed light on the demanding nature of the discussions. He disclosed that Ukrainian and American negotiators dedicated over six hours solely to deliberating "individual points" concerning the territorial issues, reflecting the complexity of the negotiations. The Ukrainian leader underscored that while territorial matters pose the greatest difficulty, other significant challenges include securing essential funding for Ukraine's reconstruction in the absence of European partners, as well as obtaining definitive security guarantees from both the United States and Europe. He stressed the importance of addressing these concerns thoughtfully. Zelenskyy confirmed that dialogue with Washington continues, noting that the US has communicated its perspective to Ukrainian officials and plans to convey the same to Moscow. He expects a comprehensive update on the negotiation status from his delegation, which is scheduled to travel to Ireland. Separately, responding to rumors about a potential leadership reshuffle following Andriy Yermak's resignation from the presidential office, Zelenskyy stated that he will conduct consultations upon his return to Kyiv. He added that the choice for the next chief of staff will be guided by multiple considerations, including the necessity for management to enhance diplomatic efforts.

CBCP Urges Swift Passage of Anti-Dynasty Law to Combat Corruption

The social action branch of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is calling for the prompt approval of the Anti-Dynasty Law, emphasizing its importance in tackling long-standing corruption in the country. On Monday, December 8, 2025, Caritas Philippines president Bishop Gerardo Alminaza expressed his strong support for the legislation, stating that political dynasties have held sway over Philippine politics for decades. "An anti-dynasty law should be passed without delay. Some clans have dominated politics for decades. Yet, even newer politicians in national leadership seem to quickly expand their reach through the election or appointment of their relatives," Bishop Alminaza said in a statement. The San Carlos bishop urged the public not to accept the continued dominance of political families and called for the emergence of qualified, new leaders to take on government roles. He described the push for the law as part of a wider moral imperative echoed by many Filipinos, including members of the Catholic community. "We are facing a moral reckoning, and our people are seeking the truth. Corruption must finally end; nothing less will do. This is also the moment for our nation to pass a genuine anti-dynasty law," Alminaza added. Citing data from the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, the bishop highlighted that at least 18 political dynasties have five or more elected members serving in public office following the May 2025 elections. Bishop Alminaza also cautioned the public against complacency, warning that some government officials might attempt to create the illusion that corruption has been effectively dealt with. He urged sustained public vigilance and advocacy until thorough accountability and preventive measures are firmly in place. Additionally, he emphasized the need to maintain focus on anti-corruption efforts, integral ecology advocacy, and social action. The recent protests around the country, which involved various sectors, underscore the recognition that corruption and environmental neglect disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. "Vibrant and varied actions around the country, where multisectoral groups participated, should inspire us all to keep learning together. We need to keep exercising synodality and solidarity with the poor, with one another, and with other concerned groups," Bishop Alminaza concluded.

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Antipolo Rep. Romeo Acop Dies of Heart Attack, Family Issues Statement

The children of the late Antipolo City 2nd district Rep. Romeo Acop have publicly revealed the cause of their father's death. A statement released by Acop's office on Monday, Dec. 22 conveyed the heartfelt message from his children Philip, Reena, and Karla. "It is with much sadness and a heavy heart that our family confirms the news that our beloved father, Congressman Romeo Macusi Acop, has passed away due to a heart attack," their one-page statement read. "As we grieve this immense loss, we also choose to honor and celebrate the life of our Daddy Romy---a soldier, a police officer, a lawyer, a congressman, a true patriot, and a statesman," they said. They described their father as "a loyal friend, a devoted father, and a loving lolo whose presence and guidance shaped our lives." "We thank each and every one who has reached out to our family...We are also sincerely thankful for the understanding and patience shown to us as we come to terms with this unexpected loss," they added. Acop, a National Unity Party (NUP) stalwart and former police brigadier general, was found unconscious in his room on Saturday night, Dec. 20, and was declared dead at Assumption Hospital. "Amidst the sorrow, our family finds comfort in knowing that our father is now reunited with our Creator and with our mother, his beloved Doktora Cion," the children said, referring to the late former congresswoman Resurreccion Acop. "We, his children, have also collectively decided to set aside Dec. 22 as a private day of mourning, to grieve and be with the rest of the family he left behind. We humbly ask for your understanding and respect for this request during this most difficult time," they added. Also on Monday, the House of Representatives adopted House Resolution (HR) No.601, which expressed the "profound condolences" of the chamber for the Acop family in light of the congressman's passing. Majority Leader Ilocos Norte 1st district Rep. Sandro Marcos made the motion to adopt HR No.601, which was carried by Deputy Speaker Misamis Oriental 2nd district Rep. Yevgeny Vicente Emano after hearing no objections. 💙