News
Statement on the Arrest of Philip Lustre Jr. and Libel Complaints Against Journalists
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) expresses concern over the reported arrest of veteran journalist Philip Lustre Jr. in Quezon City on October 24 in connection with a cyberlibel case. Lustre’s counsel, Atty. Dino de Leon, said the journalist had been unaware of the complaint before his arrest. He said they would seek…
Kalibo Sets Ati-Atihan Opening Salvo; Rehabilitated Pastrana Park Takes Center Stage
By George Jing Cawaling KALIBO, AKLAN – Mayor Juris Bautista Sucro, President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) – Aklan Chapter, has officially declared November 3, 2026 as the Opening Salvo for the 2027 Kalibo Señor Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival, coinciding with the municipality’s historic 455th Foundation Day. This year’s celebrations carry…
PTFOMS Welcomes Court Decision in Journalist Dizon Killing
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) welcomes the court’s decision in the case involving the killing of journalist Eduardo “Ed” Dizon as a crucial milestone in the pursuit of justice for his family and the ongoing battle against impunity. On Tuesday, 6 October 2026, the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 228 rendered…
Gov. Fernando Fires Back at Viral Criticism, Asks Where ₱41-B Went
Bulacan Governor Daniel R. Fernando clarified his viral response to a recent interview regarding more than ₱41 billion in flood-control projects in Bulacan, saying the public should focus on where the funds went and why flooding remains a problem in the province. During his August 20 phone interview with broadcaster Ted Failon, Fernando was asked…
ES Recto underscores media’s role in safe, credible, peaceful BARMM elections
Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto underscored the media’s crucial role in promoting informed public participation, transparency, and accountability in the first Bangsamoro Parliamentary Elections scheduled for September. In a message delivered during a three-day Safety and Security Training Workshop for Media Personnel in Cagayan de Oro City this week, Recto said the elections represent animportant…
MAYOR JURIS B. SUCRO RECEIVES PPA RECOGNITION FOR UNWAVERING SUPPORT TO COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS
ILOILO CITY | July 23, 2026 — The Parole and Probation Administration (PPA) under the Department of Justice (DOJ) has awarded Kalibo Mayor Juris B. Sucro with a Plaque of Recognition, in celebration of the agency’s 50th Golden Anniversary this year. The recognition was conferred today, July 23, during ceremonies held at the Grand Xing…
International Cruise Vessel MV AIDAstella Makes Official Port of Call in Boracay Island
BORACAY ISLAND, AKLAN – The international cruise ship MV AIDAstella, operated under Costa Cruise Lines, arrived at the waters of Boracay Island on 13 January 2025, carrying approximately 3,300 passengers and crew members. Marking the formal welcome of the vessel, an Exchange of Plaque Ceremony was conducted onboard. Senior representatives from the Provincial Government of…
Toxics Watchdog Alerts FDA Over Banned Mercury-Containing Skin Lightening Products Sold in Mindanao
Following market monitoring activities conducted from June 10 to 13, 2026, in Surigao City, Butuan City, and Davao City, toxics watchdog BAN Toxics prompted the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to act on the proliferation of banned mercury-containing skin-lightening products being sold in beauty shops. To conduct chemical testing, the group purchased Pakistan-made Goree products…
On the reported attempt on the life of broadcaster Jay Lavapiez
June 22, 2026 The Presidential Task Force on Media Security expresses deep concern over the reported attempt on the life of radio broadcaster Jay Lavapiez in Barangay Cagay, Roxas City, at about 5 a.m. on Monday, June 22. This incident highlights the urgent need to protect journalists, who play an important role in informing the…
BDO supports OFWs at Migrant Workers’ Day celebration
Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families gathered at the National Migrant Workers’ Day celebration organized by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), where government and private sector partners highlighted programs aimed at helping migrant workers build financial secure and prepare for their long-term goals. As part of the event, BDO Unibank conducted a financial…