Philippine Government Seeks Interpol Red Notice for Harry Roque Amid Human Trafficking Allegations; Flood Scam Arrests Continue
The Philippine government has formally requested an Interpol Red Notice for former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, linking him to alleged qualified human trafficking at a POGO facility. Concurrently, several Department of Public Works and Highways officials have been arrested, and warrants issued for others, in connection with an anomalous ₱289.5-million flood control project scam in Oriental Mindoro.
Manila Implements Ban on Face-Concealing Headgear in Public Spaces
The Manila City government has enacted Ordinance No. 9134, known as the 'Anti-Balaclava Ordinance,' prohibiting face-concealing headgear in public and commercial areas. Aimed at deterring crime and aiding law enforcement, the ban includes items like helmets, balaclavas, and hoodies, with specific exemptions for health, religious, and operational reasons. Violators face fines and potential imprisonment.
Philippines Assumes ASEAN Chairmanship for 2026, Outlines Key Priorities
The Philippines officially took over the chairmanship of ASEAN for 2026 at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. received the gavel, signaling a focus on peace, security, prosperity, and people empowerment under the theme 'Navigating Our Future, Together.'
Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co Resigns Amid Flood Control Corruption Allegations
Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co has resigned from the Philippine House of Representatives on September 29, 2025, citing threats to his family and denial of due process. His resignation follows mounting corruption allegations related to anomalous flood control projects and budget insertions, with an independent commission recommending graft charges against him and other officials.
NBI Recommends Charges Against Escudero, Binay, Romualdez in Flood Control Scandal
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has recommended the filing of malversation and indirect bribery charges against Senator Francis 'Chiz' Escudero, Makati City Mayor Nancy Binay, and Leyte Representative Martin Romualdez, among others. The recommendation follows revelations made during a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on alleged flood control project kickbacks.
Super Typhoon Nando Intensifies, Bears Down on Northern Luzon
Super Typhoon Nando (international name Ragasa) rapidly intensified over the Philippine Sea on September 21, 2025, reaching super typhoon status. Packing maximum sustained winds of 205 kph and gusts up to 250 kph, it poses a significant threat of violent winds, torrential rains, and life-threatening storm surges to Northern Luzon, particularly the Babuyan Islands and Batanes.
