By Celeste Tamayo
MANILA — House Secretary General Reginald Velasco has requested Senate President Chiz Escudero to provide a space in the Senate building for House prosecutors as they prepare for Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio’s impeachment trial.
“We request permission to conduct an ocular inspection on March 11, 2025, of the room to be assigned, in order to determine how it will be set up to ensure a comfortable and convenient working environment for the Public Prosecutors and the SSG,” the letter stated.
Earlier, Escudero disclosed the proposed schedule for the impeachment trial as the session resumes.
The trial is set to begin on July 31.
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — On Thursday (March 6, 2025), the Senate submitted a manifestation “in lieu of the required comment,” stating that it has the sole authority to decide on impeachment cases under the 1987 Constitution.
The Senate clarified that it cannot comment on the petition filed by Vice President Sara Duterte before the Supreme Court, which seeks to nullify the impeachment proceedings against her.
The manifestation was filed through the Senate’s legal counsel, Maria Valentina Cruz, referencing the Constitution’s directive for the upper chamber to convene as an Impeachment Court to hear and decide on cases involving impeachable officials.
“Respondent Senate, which has the sole power to try and decide all cases of impeachment under the Constitution, cannot, therefore, possibly make a comment on the Petition and asks the Honorable Court to excuse it from submitting the comment,” the Senate stated in the pleading.
“Respondent Senate further requests that this Manifestation Ad Cautelam be admitted in lieu of the required comment and considered as compliance with the En Banc Resolution dated February 25, 2025,” it added.
A Manifestation Ad Cautelam is a declaration made “out of caution” in response to a petition filed in court.
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MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured voters Thursday (20 Feb 2025) that the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas’ senatorial candidates aim to protect and promote public interests, not to instill fear.
During a rally in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, Marcos emphasized that the Alyansa’s candidates, hailing from various political parties, are united in their goal to advance the welfare of Filipinos.
“Our direction is clear,” Marcos said. “We aim to develop the Philippines, not oppress it. Development is the solution, not fear. We need to improve how our government operates.”
He underscored that the Alyansa candidates are committed to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and rights with dignity and diplomacy.
Marcos reiterated the administration’s stance of standing firm on territorial integrity, vowing not to cede even an inch of Philippine territory to foreign powers. He also criticized violent anti-drug campaigns and the illegal operations of the former Philippine offshore gaming industry, suggesting that these are not the solutions to the country’s problems. Instead, he called for stronger laws, law enforcement, and local support.
The Alyansa, which brings together five major political parties—Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD), Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC), Nacionalista Party (NP), and National Unity Party (NUP)—has fielded a 12-member slate. Notable candidates include former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, Makati Mayor Abigail Binay, Senators Bong Revilla, Pia Cayetano, Lito Lapid, Imee Marcos, and Francis Tolentino, as well as former senators Panfilo Lacson, Manny Pacquiao, and Vicente Sotto III, and House Representatives Erwin Tulfo and Camille Villar.
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MANILA – The Solicitor General’s Office (OSG) will represent the Senate in Supreme Court petitions regarding the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, confirmed Senate President Francis Escudero.
At a press conference in Quezon City, Escudero shared that he had referred to the OSG a petition from Duterte’s allies seeking to halt the Senate impeachment proceedings. Duterte herself has filed a petition challenging the impeachment complaint’s constitutionality, and another petition last week urged the SC to compel the Senate to convene as an impeachment court.
Escudero clarified that the Senate would not prepare a direct response to the petition for mandamus. “We referred this matter to the Solicitor General’s Office, as they represent the government. The OSG will handle and respond to the case for the Senate,” he explained.
While the Senate legal team drafted an advisory for Escudero’s review, it will be forwarded to the OSG for consideration.
Escudero also confirmed separate petitions from Davao City councilors and Vice President Duterte herself for certiorari before the SC. He suggested the Senate’s recess may have been timely, allowing the SC to resolve these issues before the impeachment trial proceeds, avoiding further delays.
The Senate, Escudero reiterated, intends to continue fulfilling its constitutional duties unless the SC issues a restraining order or preliminary injunction.
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MANILA – The Supreme Court (SC) has ordered the Senate to comment on a petition calling for immediate action on the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte.
Catalino Generillo Jr., a former special counsel of the Presidential Commission on Good Government, filed the petition for mandamus, urging the SC to compel the Senate to constitute itself as an impeachment court and proceed with the trial.
The SC has given the Senate 10 days to respond to the petition. Generillo argues that the Constitution requires the Senate to act swiftly, even during recess, in deciding whether to form an impeachment court for the Vice President.
The impeachment articles were transmitted to the Senate on February 5. However, Congress adjourned on February 8 and will resume sessions from June 2 to 13, with a sine die adjournment on June 14.
Senate President Francis Escudero has indicated that the impeachment trial is unlikely to take place until after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address in July, citing the focus of several senators on their reelection campaigns during the break.
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Koko Pimentel sent a letter to Senate President Chiz Escudero, urging him to act “forthwith” on the impeachment case of Vice President Sara Duterte.
“I write to emphasize the constitutional mandate requiring the Senate to act ‘forthwith’ on the impeachment case of Vice President Sara Duterte,” Pimentel said in the letter.
“Since this is a constitutional provision, the term ‘forthwith’ must be interpreted in accordance with the Verba Legis Rule, meaning it should be given its ‘plain and ordinary meaning.’”
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court ordered the Senate to comment on the petition filed before the tribunal.
This followed a petition for mandamus, asking the SC to compel the Senate to convene for an impeachment trial against Duterte.
The SC “required the Senate to comment on the petition within a non-extendible period of 10 days from receipt of notice.”
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Globe fully supports the call for a Senate investigation into the illegal trade of devices used for spoofing or SMS hijacking, a fraud scheme behind the proliferation of scam texts that evade telco networks.
Sen. Mark Villar recently filed a resolution seeking a senate inquiry on the trade of International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) catchers, which allow fraudsters to send out malicious SMS in the guise of legitimate sender IDs. These portable devices serve as fake cell towers that enable SMS sending outside telco networks, thus evading spam filters.
Globe has been working with government agencies to curb spoofing by cutting off the supply of IMSI catchers in the country. These devices are imported into the country either in full or in parts for assembly, then used for illegal activities.
“Spoofing or SMS hijacking using IMSI catchers has been a major headache for both the industry and law enforcement. Spoofed messages are difficult to track because of the technology. We have high hopes that through this Senate probe, we’d be able to address the root of the problem: the illegal trade of IMSI catchers in the country,” said Atty. Froilan Castelo, Globe’s General Counsel.
“This is a major step in our shared goal of protecting the public from fraud. Through this legislative inquiry, we hope to find a clear path forward in the fight against IMSI catchers,” said Castelo.
Globe stands ready to provide technical expertise and support to the Senate panel as needed.
Fraudsters have used IMSI catchers to impersonate Globe’s official sender ID, duping customers with fake Globe Rewards claims and other unauthorized messages. Such spoofed messages have seen a rise as Globe enforced stricter spam and scam blocking, filtering out all person-to-person SMS with links and enforcing stringent regulations on app-to-person SMS with URLs.
Globe’s pioneering move to remove links in SMS messages shows the company will go the extra mile to make it a scam-free network and protect customers. Unfortunately the new method of scammers such as using IMSI catchers goes directly to the device and does not pass through the network anymore. Currently, Globe is looking at more advanced technologies that might help address this issue.
Globe reminds the public to stay vigilant against suspicious text messages, including those that seem to come from legitimate sources. Be cautious of links and offers that seem too good to be true. As a security measure and to protect customers, Globe does not include clickable links in its official text advisories.
Customers who receive scam SMS are encouraged to report them through Globe’s #StopSpam portal.
For more information on Globe’s initiatives against fraud, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate adjourned its session on Wednesday night (Feb. 5, 2025) without addressing the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.
The Senate will resume its session from June 2 to June 13 before the sine die adjournment.
Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel said the Senate should have received and reported the articles of impeachment during the session. However, since this was not done, the trial may take place in June.
There is a possibility that the impeachment court could convene even without a session, as long as all the senators agree.
On Wednesday night, House Secretary General Reginald Velasco delivered the articles of impeachment against the Vice President to Senate Secretary Atty. Renato Bantug at the Senate Office in Pasay City.
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has approved, on third and final reading, the postponement of elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on Monday, February 3, 2025.
Instead of holding the elections on May 12, 2025, as originally planned, the Senate has decided to move them to October 13, 2025. Eighteen Senators voted in favor of the bill, one opposed, and none abstained.
The proposed postponement was previously certified as urgent by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
The proposal to reconcile the versions of the two chambers is expected to be submitted to the bicameral conference committee on Tuesday.
Under the Senate’s approved version, the BARMM elections will be postponed by five months, while the House of Representatives proposed a one-year delay.
The measure aims to provide the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) with sufficient time to prepare and allow the current Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) to conclude its work.
“This bill does not seek to deny anyone their right to vote. Rather, it proposes a reasonable adjustment to give COMELEC adequate time to prepare and the BTA to wind up their transactions,” said Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito.
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MANILA – In a significant legislative move, the Senate passed seven major bills on Monday (27 Jan 2025) aimed at bolstering governance, national security, the economy, agriculture, and environmental conservation. The bills received strong bipartisan support, demonstrating a unified approach to addressing some of the nation’s most pressing challenges.
Among the approved measures was Senate Bill No. 2781, also known as the E-Governance Act, which aims to streamline government services through digital platforms. This bill ensures that essential public services can continue even during disruptions, ensuring greater accessibility and trust in government processes. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who sponsored the bill, stressed its role in building a more inclusive, digital-first government.
“Digital governance will enable continuous service delivery even during emergencies. It is about making services more accessible to all Filipinos, including those with disabilities,” said Gatchalian.
Another landmark measure was Senate Bill No. 2865, the Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act, which seeks to democratize access to capital markets, offering new investment opportunities for ordinary Filipinos and stimulating economic growth.
“This bill will make the capital markets more inclusive and fairer, not just for individual investors, but for the entire nation,” Gatchalian added.
The Senate also passed Senate Bill No. 2900, which establishes a Special Defense Economic Zone in Limay, Bataan. This measure aims to attract investments in the local defense industry, advancing the nation’s self-reliance in defense capabilities. Senate President Miguel Zubiri voiced support for the bill, calling it essential for strengthening the country’s defense posture.
“This zone will foster a self-reliant defense industry, empowering Filipinos to manufacture our own armaments,” Zubiri said.
Additionally, the Senate approved Senate Bill No. 2814, providing free legal assistance to military and uniformed personnel involved in legal matters related to their official duties. Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, who authored the bill, highlighted the risks faced by security forces in the line of duty and the necessity for legal support.
“This bill ensures that our men and women in uniform, who risk their lives to protect the country, have access to legal assistance when needed,” Estrada stated.
The Senate also passed Senate Bill No. 2895, proposing amendments to the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, to strengthen gun ownership regulations and promote public safety. Senator Ronald Dela Rosa emphasized the need for responsible gun ownership to enhance national security.
“We need stricter regulations and increased compliance to ensure a safer and more secure Philippines,” Dela Rosa explained.
In a move to support the media, House Bill No. 6505 was approved, granting a fresh franchise to state-run IBC-13. Senator Raffy Tulfo praised the approval, noting that it would revitalize the network and provide job opportunities for Filipinos.
“This renewal is a chance to strengthen IBC-13’s role in combatting fake news while promoting Filipino culture and values,” Tulfo said.
Also approved was Senate Bill No. 2906, the Philippine Agriculturists Act, which provides professional recognition and better career opportunities for agriculturists. Senate leaders, including Zubiri, welcomed the bill as long overdue for those who play a vital role in the nation’s food security and rural development.
“This bill ensures that our agriculturists receive the recognition and compensation they deserve,” Zubiri remarked.
The Senate also approved a series of bills, including House Bill No. 8839, which grants Philippine citizenship to Li Duan Wang. However, the bill sparked controversy, with Senator Risa Hontiveros casting the only dissenting vote due to concerns about Wang’s alleged ties to questionable activities.
Hontiveros explained, “While I’m not declaring Wang guilty, the red flags surrounding his background make it unwise to grant citizenship without further scrutiny.”
Other approved measures include Senate Bill No. 1536, which seeks to expand the buffer zone of the Las Piñas – Parañaque Wetland Park, as part of the country’s commitment to environmental conservation and disaster resilience.
The Senate also approved various bills related to the establishment and renaming of schools across the country to improve access to education, ensuring better opportunities for students in different regions.
This productive session marks a significant step forward in addressing critical national issues through thoughtful and effective legislation.
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has commended The Voice USA winner Sofronio Vazquez for becoming the first Filipino and Asian to win the international competition.
Vazquez, from Misamis Oriental in Northern Mindanao, garnered the most votes from viewers and was declared the winner during the live finale on December 10, 2024 (U.S. time).
“His exceptional talent and heartfelt performance throughout the season showcased the remarkable prowess of Filipino singers, proving his well-deserved win and affirming that Filipinos are a force to be reckoned with in singing competitions,” said Senator Joel Villanueva, author of the resolution.
“Sofronio Vazquez’s outstanding victory brought immense pride and joy to Filipinos both in the Philippines and around the world,” he added.
The senator also noted that Vazquez’s victory marked a significant milestone for his mentor, Michael Bublé, who secured his first-ever win as a coach on the competition.
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SENATE President Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero has expressed reservations about Senate Bill No. 1979, the Adolescent Pregnancy Bill, currently under deliberation in the chamber.
Escudero stated, “As it was originally reported, no. At least not in its entirety. In fact, I have relayed to the author several proposed amendments.”
He emphasized that the bill is still in the legislative process and in the period of interpellation. He is committed to ensuring the bill’s provisions are properly aligned with necessary safeguards and amendments before casting his vote.
“I will await the final version that will be put to a vote, where, hopefully, most of my proposed amendments will be carried,” he added, without specifying his amendments.
Escudero also denied claims that former Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno influenced his position, clarifying that Sereno only expressed concerns about the bill, as her group opposes it.
Authored by Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros, SB 1979 has faced criticism from groups like Project Dalisay, which Sereno represents.
They specifically object to a provision in the bill they claim teaches bodily pleasure and sexual rights to young children.
By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has approved on third and final reading a bill defining the term of office for barangay officials and members of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK).
The measure garnered unanimous support, with 22 senators voting in favor and no abstentions or negative votes.
Senator Imee Marcos highlighted the benefits of the longer term for barangay and SK officials.
“With the longer fixed term, barangay officials and SK members will deepen their understanding of both national and local issues, as well as implement their own medium- and long-term initiatives at the barangay level,” Marcos said.
Under the proposed law, the term of office for all elected barangay officials and SK members will be four years. No barangay official may serve more than three consecutive terms in the same position. Voluntary resignation will not count as an interruption in the continuity of service for the full term.
The bill also sets the next regular barangay and SK elections for the first Monday of October 2027, with subsequent elections every four years. The term of office for officials elected after the law takes effect will begin on the first day of November following their election.
Once enacted, all incumbent barangay officials and SK members will remain in office until their successors are elected and qualified, unless removed or suspended for cause.
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MANILA – The Senate approved on Tuesday (14 Jan 2025) four important measures as it resumed the third regular session of the 19th Congress.
The first bill to be unanimously approved was Senate Bill No. 2897, which proposes amendments to Republic Act (RA) No. 11313, also known as the Safe Spaces Act. The bill addresses gender-based online harassment, particularly involving artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies.
Authored by Senators Cynthia Villar and Robinhood Padilla and sponsored by Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros, the amendments target harassment in virtual spaces, and define grooming as predatory behavior aimed at children or their guardians for abuse.
“This bill responds to the urgent calls from our constituents, especially young women in schools, to reform the law in order to better address their lived realities. When we made the current law [RA 11313], no one knew what AI was. Today, deep fakes are chronic, and pornography is being created with the use of these emerging technologies,” Hontiveros explained.
The bill also expands the definition of public spaces to include rural areas such as fields, farms, and coastal regions. It mandates internet intermediaries to take down violating content within 24 hours upon notice. Violators face fines of up to PHP100,000 or imprisonment of up to six months.
“Although we know that no amount of penalty may be sufficient to give justice to the victims, we hope that the increased penalties will actually deter more crimes of this nature and be commensurate with the severity of the harm it inflicts on its victims,” Senator Grace Poe said in her explanation of vote.
The Senate also approved SBN 2825, or the Phivolcs Modernization Act, which emphasizes the critical role of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) in monitoring seismic and volcanic hazards.
Senator Joel Villanueva, supporting the measure, highlighted the need for modernization of Phivolcs’ equipment, technology, and workforce. “This measure ensures Phivolcs can expand its monitoring network, enhance research, and support the professional growth of its personnel,” Villanueva said. “Modernizing Phivolcs is an investment in the safety and resilience of our nation. We must not wait for another tragedy to remind us of the importance of preparedness.”
Meanwhile, SBN 2863, the Foreign Affairs Pension Differential Act, also received full support. Principal author Senator Loren Legarda emphasized the importance of honoring retired Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) personnel who have served the country in challenging and dangerous environments. The bill adjusts the monthly pensions and disability benefits of retired DFA officers and employees, ensuring they can live with dignity in retirement.
Finally, senators praised the approval of SBN 2816, which sets the term for elected barangay officials to four years. The bill, authored by Senator Imee Marcos, seeks to strengthen barangay governance and improve service delivery nationwide. Senators Ramon Revilla Jr. and Padilla cited its practical and constitutional merits in their explanations of vote.
Revilla underscored the pivotal role of barangays as the “basic political unit and primary implementers of government policies and programs.” He emphasized that barangays serve as a bridge to ensure that government programs reach the people swiftly and effectively.
Padilla noted that three years is insufficient for barangay officials to implement their platforms and programs effectively. The extended term would bring stability to local governance, reduce the frequency of elections, and allow resources to be reallocated to meaningful government projects.
In addition to these four measures, the Senate also unanimously approved House Bill No. 7406, which revises the Baguio City Charter.
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MANILA – When the Senate resumes sessions on January 13, four (4) key legislative measures will be at the forefront of its agenda.
Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino highlighted these priorities, which include the (1) postponement of the barangay elections and the (2) modernization of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). Other focal points will be (3) amendments to the Baguio City Charter and (4) pension adjustments for Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) personnel.
The top priority will be Senate Bill No. 2816, which seeks to reschedule the 2025 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) to May 2029. This bill also proposes extending the terms of local officials by two years, ensuring that the BSKE does not coincide with national elections and providing the Commission on Elections with ample time to ensure peaceful polls.
Tolentino emphasized the urgency of modernizing Phivolcs, citing recent volcanic eruptions in Kanlaon and Taal. Senate Bill No. 2825, the Phivolcs Modernization Act, aims to enhance the agency’s capabilities by upgrading its technology, expanding seismic stations, and improving personnel training and salaries.
Another priority is House Bill No. 7406, which seeks to amend the Baguio City Charter to maintain the city’s status as a highly urbanized independent local government. The bill also aims to rectify issues regarding property titling.
Additionally, Senate Bill No. 2863, known as the Foreign Affairs Pension Differential Act, would provide improved retirement benefits to Filipino foreign service officers aged 65 and older, who have served at least 15 years with the DFA.
Tolentino also noted that other ongoing legislative efforts will include measures to reorganize the National Tax Research Center, improve the mining sector, and strengthen the National Housing Authority.
The Senate will address these measures when sessions resume next week.
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has approved on third and final reading the National Education Support Personnel Day Act, which designates May 16th as a special working holiday.
The measure, proposed by Senator Win Gatchalian, mandates that the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) lead the preparation and implementation of the annual activities for National Education Support Personnel Day.
Gatchalian noted that the proposed law aligns with the global celebration of “World Education Support Personnel Day,” observed annually since 2018. Countries including Australia, Canada, Malta, South Africa, and the United States participate in this occasion.
“Nais nating ipadama sa ating mga education support personnel na mahalaga ang kanilang papel sa paghahatid ng dekalidad na edukasyon at sa pagtataguyod sa kapakanan ng ating mga mag-aaral. Ang pagdiriwang ng National Education Support Personnel Day ay magbibigay ng pagkilala para sa kanilang dedikasyon,” said Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Basic Education.
Additionally, Gatchalian highlighted the relevance of the bill in light of DepEd Order No. 2, series of 2024, which removes non-teaching tasks from teachers, underscoring the vital role of support staff in ensuring the smooth operation of schools.
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has passed on third and final reading the Chemical Weapons Prohibition Act, banning the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons in line with the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, principal author and sponsor of the bill (SB No. 2871), emphasized that this demonstrates the Senate’s commitment to global disarmament and the fight against weapons of mass destruction.
“Finally, we are one step closer to fulfilling our commitment of enacting national legislation to implement the CWC and support international efforts to eliminate chemical weapons,” Estrada stated.
The Philippines signed the CWC 31 years ago and ratified it 28 years ago.
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has passed a resolution expressing profound sympathy and sincere condolences to the family of former Senator Santanina Tillah Rasul.
“Senator Rasul’s story — enduring through conflict while fighting for peace, rising to power while remaining deeply grounded, and serving the people both within and outside government — is truly worth remembering and emulating,” said Senator Francis Escudero in his sponsorship speech of Senate Resolution No. 1244.
Rasul passed away on November 28, 2024, at the age of 94.
A former public school teacher, Rasul first served as a barrio councilor before becoming a provincial board member of Sulu. In 1987, she made history as the first and only Muslim woman to be elected and re-elected to the Senate under the senatorial slate of then-President Corazon Aquino.
Escudero recalled how Rasul championed women’s rights long before the #MeToo movement brought widespread attention to women’s issues.
“And if hashtags had existed then, she would have made ‘#BLM’ — #BangsamoroLivesMatter — her rallying cry as she worked to change the views of those who saw Mindanao as a distant curiosity and wrongly pigeonholed Muslims with unfair stereotypes,” the Senate President added.
The late senator also authored significant laws aimed at empowering women.
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has approved on third and final reading the General Appropriations Bill (GAB) for 2025, amounting to P6.352 trillion.
It garnered 18 votes in favor of GAB, and no senator voted against it. However, there was one who abstained.
Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel abstained to vote.
The chamber has retained the P733 million budget for the Office of the Vice President.
It can be recalled that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. certified the bill as urgent.
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By Liza Soriano
MANILA — The Senate has raised concerns about reports of Filipinos in Cambodia being used as “baby-makers” or surrogate mothers.
In response, the Senate will investigate the reported cases of Filipinos rescued in Cambodia due to this situation.
Senate Resolution 1211, led by Senator Risa Hontiveros and the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, will look into this possible human trafficking case involving Filipinos abroad.
Of those involved, 13 are currently pregnant, while seven are scheduled for repatriation back to the Philippines.
Filipinas are recruited online, and most are aware of what they are getting into.
Earlier, Cambodian police rescued 20 Filipinas in Kandal province who were being used for surrogacy or carrying pregnancies for someone else’s child.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has also warned about this new human trafficking scheme targeting Filipinos.
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