Senate’s Lacson Expresses Doubts on Discayas’ Qualification as State Witnesses

Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo "Ping" Lacson expressed uncertainty on Thursday, September 11, regarding the eligibility of contractors Cezarah "Sarah" and Pacifico "Curlee" Discaya as potential state witnesses, citing inconsistencies in their testimonies and their earlier withdrawal of statements before the House of Representatives. During the Kapihan sa Senado forum, Lacson was questioned about his stance on Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III's decision not to endorse the recommendation to include the Discayas in the Witness Protection Program (WPP). Lacson clarified that Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla had already denied the request, requiring restitution as a precondition. "First of all, the Secretary of Justice already declined. He said one of his conditions is restitution. He also consulted with the Senate President, which likely influenced Senate President Sotto’s decision not to sign the recommendation," Lacson stated. He further explained that the prior recommendation was issued under the previous Blue Ribbon Committee chair and is now "outdated." As the new chairman, Lacson emphasized the need to verify and personally approve any such endorsements. Addressing the Discayas’ qualification as state witnesses, Lacson highlighted that their retraction of statements casts doubt on their credibility. "They retracted their statements. When they appeared before the House, they provided different accounts. How can they qualify when their testimony is inconsistent—one thing before the House, another here?" he questioned. Lacson did not dismiss the possibility of their qualification but stressed that their credibility must be thoroughly evaluated under legislative immunity and the consistency of their testimonies. "Following the procedure, they should first be granted legislative immunity. This will allow us to thoroughly test their credibility as potential state witnesses based on their testimonies," he added. He also underscored important criteria for state witness protection, including that witnesses should not be the most culpable parties and their testimonies must be substantiated by independent evidence. "If they are hiding something, should we allow them to escape accountability just to save themselves, despite the significant responsibilities they must answer for?" Lacson asked. At present, Lacson revealed that no individual has been confirmed as a qualified state witness, stressing the significance of in-person hearings to assess the witnesses’ reliability. "As of now, there is no qualified state witness since I am just about to start the hearings. It is more effective to question them face-to-face to gauge whether they are truthful. Therefore, I cannot yet conclude or make a judgment on whether they will qualify as state witnesses," Lacson concluded.

Faustino Dy III Elected New House Speaker, Trio of Former Independents Joins Majority Bloc

In a significant reshuffle within the Philippine House of Representatives, Isabela’s 6th district Rep. Faustino "Bojie" Dy III was elected as the new House Speaker during the plenary session on Wednesday, September 17. Dy succeeded Leyte’s 1st district Rep. Martin Romualdez, who stepped down after only 52 days in office amid the 20th Congress. The election saw the support of three once-independent lawmakers: Bacolod City lone district Rep. Albee Benitez, Navotas City lone district Rep. Toby Tiangco, and Cebu’s 5th district Rep. Duke Frasco. Although each had previously opposed Romualdez’s leadership for various reasons, they chose not to align with the minority bloc and instead backed Dy, thereby technically joining the majority. It is yet to be determined whether Benitez, Tiangco, and Frasco will be granted committee chairmanships or other influential posts under Speaker Dy’s leadership. In a symbolic moment, Dy’s oath-taking as Speaker was administered by Negros Occidental’s 3rd district Rep. Javier Miguel "Javi" Benitez, the son of Albee Benitez. At just 30 years old, Javi Benitez is among the youngest members of the 20th Congress and currently serves as an assistant majority leader.

Gabriela Women’s Party Secures Seat in 20th Congress Following Comelec Proclamation

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) formally declared Gabriela Women’s Party as a successful party-list group in the 2025 national and local elections during its session on Wednesday. Acting as the National Board of Canvassers, the Comelec en banc proclaimed Sarah Jane I. Elago, Gabriela’s first nominee and former Kabataan representative, who will serve as the group’s representative and 64th member of the 20th Congress. In a statement, Elago reaffirmed Gabriela’s commitment to championing the rights and welfare of women, children, and the LGBTQ+ community. She emphasized their ongoing advocacy for a national living wage of ₱1,200 and efforts to reduce the cost of essential goods and services. Elago remarked, \"We are entering Congress at a time when the corrupt, the crocodiles, and the abusive are in disarray. With Gabriela Women’s Party proclaimed, the corrupt should be worried.\" She further called on the government to abolish pork barrel funds and end the system of congressional insertions, highlighting that these practices fuel political conflicts while the public bears the cost of wasted billions. Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia previously announced that Gabriela’s seat was secured following a resolution that increased the number of party-list seats in the House from 63 to 64 to comply with the constitutional requirement that party-list representatives constitute 20% of the chamber. This proclamation came after the Comelec rejected challenges from other leading party-list groups, including the Duterte Youth, whose attempts to overturn accreditation decisions were denied. Gabriela placed 55th among party-list contenders in the midterm elections, garnering a total of 256,811 votes.

Leyte Rep. Romualdez Steps Down as House Speaker Amid Controversy

House Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal party-list Representative Leila De Lima has commended Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez for his decision to resign as Speaker of the House, describing the move as essential to safeguard the institution from further harm. De Lima noted that the House Minority bloc has received information confirming that Deputy Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy III is expected to succeed Romualdez in the speakership role. She emphasized, \"I believe this is the right step to prevent public skepticism regarding the ongoing investigations. This decision is not meant to cast doubt on the Speaker’s personal integrity but rather to uphold the reputation of the House as a whole.\" Highlighting the importance of the institution over individual standing, De Lima added, \"More than anyone else, including the Speaker himself, the priority must be the integrity and credibility of the House of Representatives. The dignity of the entire institution is at stake, beyond just one person’s reputation.\" Reports indicate that Romualdez has recommended Dy to various political groups within the House that had supported his leadership. Romualdez’s resignation follows allegations connecting him to irregularities in budget insertions and questionable flood control projects.

Supreme Court Confirms Alfonso Cusi-Led Faction as Legitimate PDP-Laban Leadership

The Supreme Court has reaffirmed the legitimacy of the leadership of Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) under former Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, endorsing the earlier ruling made by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). In a detailed 25-page decision authored by Associate Justice Japar Dimaampao and released on September 17, the court rejected the petition filed by prominent party members and former senators Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III and Manny Pacquiao. The petitioners contested the validity of the PDP-Laban national council meeting held on May 31, 2021, arguing that exceptional circumstances did not warrant Cusi replacing former President Rodrigo Duterte as party chairman. However, the Supreme Court noted Duterte’s May 17, 2021 memorandum authorizing Cusi to organize, convene, and preside over the meeting in Cebu City. "Through the said Memorandum, Duterte delegated to Cusi his authority to organize, convene, and preside over the meeting," the high court stated. It further supported the COMELEC’s stance that it would be unreasonable to strip the chairman of such authority in managing internal party affairs, given the reliance of officers and members on one another for governance. Even if procedural irregularities existed—such as the meeting agenda not being coordinated with Pacquiao or flawed notices to members—the Supreme Court deemed the May 31 meeting valid due to the presence of a proper quorum. Evidence showed that 126 out of 162 voting members attended, exceeding the required quorum under PDP-Laban’s constitution and bylaws. "No record exists that the voting members who attended the meeting questioned or objected to Cusi’s takeover," the SC emphasized. The court concluded that resolutions and actions taken during the May 31 meeting, which paved the way for subsequent meetings on July 16 and the National Assembly on July 17, were legitimate and representative of the majority. The July 17, 2021 National Assembly elected new PDP-Laban officers, with Alfonso Cusi sworn in as party president. This decision solidifies the standing of the Cusi faction as the rightful PDP-Laban leadership, dismissing efforts by rival members to overturn the party's internal leadership structure.

New Speaker of the House Vows Integrity and Reform in 20th Congress

To the members of the 20th Congress and fellow Filipinos, good afternoon. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues in the House of Representatives for electing me as Speaker, a responsibility I did not expect. After decades of public service ranging from youth leadership to governor of Isabela, I thought my next chapter would be with my family. However, divine providence has brought me back to Congress to further serve our nation. I acknowledge the weight of the challenges ahead. Many citizens are suffering and frustrated by current events, and as a native of Isabela, I understand the devastating impacts of natural disasters like typhoons and floods on our communities. It is in their name that I humbly accept this role. I openly admit that shortcomings exist within our institution, and we earnestly seek an opportunity to rectify faults, clean our ranks, and regain the public's trust. Aligned with the President’s mission to cleanse government operations and revive our country, this House under my leadership will bring change. I pledge not to shield the guilty or cover corruption. "No rank, no ally, no office will be exempt from accountability," mirroring the President’s firm stance. We must strengthen oversight and cooperate fully with the Independent Commission of Infrastructure. Our duty is not to protect one another but to protect the Filipino people. While this path may carry risks, I embrace the sacrifice knowing it will alleviate greater hardship for our citizens. Our foremost responsibility is upholding the Constitution and prioritizing the common good. I will not allow any member of Congress to exploit the institution for personal gain. It is time to focus on the needs of our people, who are the true reason for our service. If allegations arise, we will ensure fair hearings. Those named will have access to the proper forums to present their side. Transparency and accountability will be the foundation of our actions. I vow to personally engage with those voicing concerns and to listen closely to our citizens. This is the only way to reveal the truth and quell public doubts. To my colleagues in Congress: we will only succeed through unity and shared dedication to this vision. I believe most of us are committed to honest work for the nation’s benefit. This task is not mine alone; I need your partnership. I also thank our previous Speaker for generous cooperation in ensuring a smooth transition. Together, we will guarantee that every budget peso is aligned with the needs of the Filipino people. We will strive to pass a responsible and transparent budget dedicated to programs that serve the populace. Efforts have already begun to improve budget transparency, and I am open to diverse perspectives for greater understanding. I stand ready to collaborate with all, irrespective of political affiliation. Everyone matters, and everyone’s contribution is vital in fulfilling our mandate. To the Filipino people, I urge you to remain vigilant. Only you can decide whether to extend your trust to us again. You will play a critical role in reforming our government to prioritize your welfare. Now is the time for action – not tomorrow, not in the coming days. Let us rise, act, and serve together. The journey will not be easy, and it will test all of us. Yet, no matter the difficulty, if it is right and necessary, we must undertake it and work hand in hand. In this new Congress, we will demonstrate genuine care and unwavering dedication focused solely on improving the lives of Filipinos. There will be no other agendas or interests. The welfare of the Filipino people will be our beginning, middle, and end. We will be judged not by words but by deeds; not by promises but by fulfillment. Let us collectively advance toward a stronger, dignified, and united Philippines. Once again, thank you deeply for your trust. May the Almighty bless us all.

Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez to Resign as House Speaker, Backs Isabela Rep. Francisco Dy III as Successor

Speaker of the House and Leyte Representative Martin Romualdez is scheduled to resign from his position on Wednesday. He has urged fellow lawmakers to support Isabela Representative Francisco "Bojie" Dy III for the Speakership, according to House Deputy Speaker and Antipolo Representative Ronaldo Puno. In an interview with dzBB Super Radyo, Puno confirmed, \"The Speaker will be resigning soon, and he has requested that we back Bojie Dy as the new House Speaker.\" The developments come amid allegations involving contractor spouses Curlee and Sarah Discaya, who claimed that certain lawmakers often mention Romualdez and former House appropriations committee chairperson Zaldy Co to expedite commission payments related to government projects. Curlee later clarified that he never directly transacted with Romualdez, stating that their names were reportedly invoked by others seeking commissions. On Tuesday, the House plenary session was unexpectedly suspended amid swirling rumors about a possible move to remove Romualdez from his post. When asked if they had sufficient support to unseat the Speaker, Navotas Representative Toby Tiangco remarked that \"the most important vote for the Speakership is outside the House of Representatives.\" Romualdez currently serves as president of the ruling Lakas-CMD party, which holds 113 seats in the House of Representatives, indicating his significant influence within the chamber.

Lawyer Files Correction to Address Date Errors in DOJ Complaint

A legal counsel has submitted a formal correction to the Office of the Ombudsman to rectify an error in a recent complaint implicating Department of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, National Bureau of Investigation Director Jaime Santiago, and several other officials. Attorney Ferdinand S. Topacio disclosed in a manifestation dated Tuesday that the original complaint inaccurately recorded the detention and transfer dates of two persons, Katherine Cassandra Li Ong and Shiela Leal Guo, as occurring in 2025. The accurate dates for these events are August 23 and August 26, 2024, respectively. The initial complaint was filed on Monday before the error was discovered and amended accordingly.

House Minority Leader Denies Leadership Rift in Speaker Romualdez's Camp

House Senior Deputy Minority Leader and Caloocan City Representative Edgar Erice publicly refuted circulating rumors regarding a leadership change in the House of Representatives. Speaking at a Monday press briefing, Erice emphasized that Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez's position remains secure and uncontested. "I don\u0027t believe there is any substantial threat to Speaker Romualdez," Erice stated. He further clarified that the speculations are merely hearsay, noting, "These are just gossip because we have not heard anything official." Erice, a prominent figure in the Liberal Party, also mentioned that neither he nor his bloc has been approached about any potential leadership shifts. "No one has contacted us. We do not interfere with the majority's internal affairs. Our focus is on addressing the people\u0027s concerns," he explained. He reiterated the minority bloc's stance, saying, "As members of the minority, we remain detached from the majority\u0027s disputes. Our goal is to become the majority in due course."

Utah Man Arrested in Fatal Shooting of Conservative Influencer Charlie Kirk

Tyler Robinson, 22, once celebrated as a promising young scholar, was apprehended following the fatal shooting of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Robinson, a Utah native who previously earned a top percentile score on the ACT and secured a four-year scholarship to Utah State University, allegedly fired a rifle from a rooftop where Kirk was speaking on Tuesday. Officials have yet to establish a definitive motive for the attack but revealed that Robinson had voiced opposition to Kirk’s views in conversations prior to the incident. Utah Governor Spencer Cox indicated that law enforcement interviewed a family member who shared that Robinson had recently discussed Kirk’s upcoming appearance and expressed disapproval of his political stances. Further investigation uncovered bullet casings engraved with what appeared to be anti-fascist messages among Robinson’s possessions. Despite becoming more politically vocal in recent years, Robinson’s voter registration showed no party affiliation, and he was listed as an inactive voter, having not participated in last year’s presidential election. Robinson’s background contrasts sharply with the violent act attributed to him. He graduated from Pine View High School in 2021 with high academic honors and briefly attended Utah State University. Currently, he is enrolled in an electrical apprenticeship program at Dixie Technical College. Friends and neighbors described him as an average, quiet young man with an interest in music and no known history of criminal behavior. Authorities arrested Robinson late Thursday after a family friend contacted them, reporting that Robinson had confessed or implied responsibility for the shooting. The arrest concluded a 33-hour manhunt following the attack, during which two other persons of interest were detained and later released. Robinson was taken to Utah County Jail, where he faces charges including aggravated murder. Investigations continue as officials seek to understand the full circumstances behind the tragic shooting that has sparked nationwide alarm over escalating political tensions. Neighbors recall the Robinson family as well-regarded in their community near Zion National Park. The family frequently shared personal milestones and simpler moments on social media, rarely touching on political topics. Though firearms appeared occasionally in family photos—common in a state with permissive gun laws—there was no prior indication of violent tendencies. The incident has reignited discourse on political violence and campus security measures amid a climate of national polarization.