Peaceful Trillion Peso March Held Across Negros Island Despite Heavy Rain

The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that the Trillion Peso March held yesterday in the Negros Island Region proceeded peacefully, with no untoward incidents recorded despite challenging weather conditions. Thousands of participants, including religious groups, civil society organizations, former government officials, and progressive sectors, marched in protest against corruption. The multi-sectoral organization One Negros Ecumenical Council led the event. Clad mostly in white, protesters began their march from South Capitol Road and concluded at the Bacolod City Public Plaza. Police estimates put attendance at approximately 2,500 in Bacolod City, while Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental saw around 700 participants in a similar demonstration. However, Fr. Aniceto Buenafe of the One Negros Ecumenical Council estimated that about 5,000 individuals joined the Bacolod rally. More than 1,100 police officers from the Police Regional Office – Negros Island Region were deployed at strategic sites across the region. Their mission was to safeguard public safety, maintain peace and order, and provide security for the various assemblies held across the area. Additionally, the Bacolod City Police Office monitored a prayer rally in Barangay Villamonte, which drew roughly 250 people calling for the return of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the country. Police personnel were also stationed near the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bacolod City District Engineering Office in Barangay Taculing to ensure security. Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson praised the peaceful nature of the protests, emphasizing the power of calm and orderly mass actions as a catalyst for change. "More than a show of conviction, it is also a call for accountability, that those guilty of corruption be brought to justice," Lacson stated. PNP spokesperson PLt. Col. Joem Malong confirmed ongoing coordination between police units, local government authorities, community stakeholders, and organizers to uphold constitutionally guaranteed rights to peaceful assembly while ensuring public order and security throughout the demonstrations.

Fatal Stabbing Amid Manila Protest Leads to One Death at JRRMMC

During the recent violent demonstrations along Recto Avenue in Manila, one individual who suffered stab wounds was declared dead upon arrival at the Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center (JRRMMC), the Department of Health (DOH) reported Monday. The victim, whose identity remains unknown, was among 48 individuals transported to JRRMMC for medical treatment after the protests in the Mendiola-Recto vicinity. The DOH confirmed that the unidentified man did not survive his injuries sustained in the stabbing incident. This fatality underscores the severity of the violence witnessed during the protest, prompting calls for increased measures to ensure public safety during such events.

Four Siblings Arrested for Assaulting Neighbor Over Land Dispute in Toledo City

Four siblings have been arrested after allegedly assisting in the beating of their neighbor in Barangay Sagay, Toledo City, causing significant injuries to the victim. The victim, identified as 44-year-old Jose Boyet Villahermosa Lendo Sr., sustained a swollen left eyebrow and multiple bruises on various parts of his body. The incident occurred on the morning of September 21, 2025, at around 11:00 AM, prompting the victim to be taken to a local infirmary for medical treatment. Authorities quickly apprehended the four siblings: Lolie Villahermosa Aguanta, 27, from Barangay Palao, San Fernando; Norlito Villahermosa Aguanta, 33, from Barangay Cantood, Balamban; Jemark Villahermosa Aguanta, 24, of Barangay Sagay, Toledo City; and Allan Villahermosa Aguanta, 38, residing in Sitio Cantigay, Barangay Bulongan, Toledo City. According to the investigation conducted by the Toledo Police Station, the attack stemmed from a land dispute that had long existed between the involved families. The confrontation escalated when the victim encountered the siblings at the disputed site, leading to the physical assault. The siblings are currently held at the Toledo Police Station as charges for physical injury are being prepared against them.

Manila Authorities to File Charges Against 192 Arrested in September Anti-Corruption Protests

Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso disclosed on Tuesday that authorities plan to press multiple charges against individuals apprehended during the September 21 anti-corruption demonstrations. According to Domagoso, the Manila Police District confirmed the arrest of 127 adults and 89 minors. Among the juveniles, 67 have been classified as children in conflict with the law, while 24 are considered children at risk. Charges will be filed against 192 individuals, excluding the children at risk, for offenses including illegal assembly, assault on persons in authority, resistance, and disobedience. The mayor added that additional charges such as malicious mischief, arson, physical injuries, and inciting to sedition remain under review as investigations continue. Highlighting concerns about the involvement of minors in such incidents, Domagoso urged Congress to consider legislation addressing the recruitment of children into riots or mob activities. He questioned, "Are they acting independently, or are they being manipulated? We need to take a closer look at this issue." Mayor Domagoso also called on the parents of those detained to assist law enforcement efforts, emphasizing the importance of identifying the individuals orchestrating the unrest. He warned, "If I were you, talk to your children and help the police point out who the people are behind this. Otherwise, you will be the only ones responsible for the problem you have given to Manila, which you are legally responsible for." Authorities are currently investigating possible instigators, including a lawyer, a Filipino-Chinese businessman, and a politician, who are suspected of funding the rioters. Domagoso suggested that the disturbances might have been an attempt to divert public attention from corruption issues or to undermine genuine protest movements. "Perhaps the goal was to create chaos and destroy credibility, to make an impression that these people are rowdy," he remarked. The Manila local government has estimated the damage to traffic signal infrastructure at five Recto Avenue intersections to amount to approximately PHP 692,785.64. Domagoso noted that this figure reflects only a portion of the total damage, as further assessments are underway to evaluate harm to vehicles, motorcycles, streetlights, CCTV units, and permanent traffic barricades. "Maybe in a week or ten days from now, we could determine the total amount of damage," he stated, adding that both public and private property damage will be charged to those found responsible. In a related response, Cardinal Pablo David, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, expressed sorrow over the violent turn of events during the Mendiola rally. He emphasized that the "Trillion Peso March" was intended as a peaceful call for accountability and justice, not as an incitement to violence.

Palace Defends Independence of Commission Probing Flood Control Anomalies

Malacañang firmly rejected Senator Rodante Marcoleta's suggestion questioning the independence of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), which is investigating anomalies in flood control projects. Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro emphasized that evidence "cannot be conjured from thin air." "The independence of an investigative body is demonstrated by its impartiality, lack of bias, non-partisanship, and its refusal to accept bribes or engage in corrupt practices," Castro said on Wednesday. Highlighting the commission's methods, she added, "The ICI is an independent body tasked with investigating, and it will acquire information from every possible source. Evidence must come from credible materials, including government documents, but those are not the only resources the commission will examine. They will explore every angle necessary to complete the evidence." The statement comes in response to Marcoleta's concerns raised on Tuesday that the ICI is potentially "too dependent" on other government agencies for information — particularly after meetings between the ICI and Senate leaders, including Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III and Senate President Pro Tempore and Blue Ribbon Committee chairman Panfilo Lacson. Marcoleta questioned the scope and limits of the collaboration between the ICI and the Blue Ribbon Committee, expressing doubts about the commission's independence if it relies heavily on records and testimonies provided by legislative bodies. However, Castro dismissed these worries, pointing out that cooperation between the ICI and legislative investigations is both logical and beneficial. "If the Senate and the House of Representatives can contribute information uncovered from their own hearings, there is no reason for the ICI to reject such assistance," she explained. The Palace reiterated its support for the ICI's mandate to conduct thorough, unbiased investigations into the reported irregularities surrounding flood control initiatives, underscoring that utilizing all available sources is essential for achieving comprehensive and credible results.

Former Moro Extremists Surrender Firearms, Embrace Peace in Maguindanao del Sur

COTABATO CITY – On Wednesday afternoon, eighteen former Moro extremist fighters voluntarily surrendered their weapons to the Philippine Army in Maguindanao del Sur, citing fatigue from ongoing military offensives, an Army spokesperson revealed Thursday. The surrender took place at the 92nd Infantry Battalion (92IB) headquarters in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, where Lt. Col. Christian V. Cabading, commander of the 92IB, formally presented the former combatants and their surrendered firearms to Maj. Gen. Ramon P. Zagala, commander of the 2nd Infantry Division stationed in Camp Capinpin, Tanay, Rizal. These individuals were previously affiliated with the Dawlah Islamiyah (DI) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), groups active in Maguindanao del Sur, particularly in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Shariff Aguak, and Mamasapano. In a statement, Lt. Col. Cabading remarked, \"Their choice to give up arms and reintegrate into lawful society exemplifies courage, the spirit of reconciliation, and hope for a renewed life with their loved ones and communities.\" Aside from the firearms surrendered by these former militants, the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) program also received 24 additional loose firearms. The collection included an array of weaponry such as rocket-propelled grenades, sniper rifles, grenade launchers, shotguns, pistols, and revolvers. \"Every weapon turned in diminishes the tools of violence and brings us closer to safer communities,\" Cabading added. During the surrender ceremony, Maj. Gen. Zagala emphasized the crucial role of education in achieving sustainable peace. He addressed the former extremists, stating, \"We eradicate ignorance and prejudice through education.\" Zagala highlighted that knowledge empowers communities to break free from the cycle of violence and misinformation exploited by extremist groups. He encouraged the former combatants to ensure their children take full advantage of the government’s free education programs, identifying education as the key to personal and communal growth. Praising the surrenderers for their courageous decision to select peace over conflict, Zagala applauded their willingness to pursue a fresh start for themselves and their families. He also lauded the 92nd Infantry Battalion for surpassing mission goals, particularly through peace-building initiatives that have strengthened community trust and security in the area.

Karapatan Appeals for Bail Funds Following Mass Arrests in Manila Anti-Corruption Protests

Karapatan Deputy Secretary General Sol Taule has called on the public to contribute toward the bail of protesters detained during the anti-corruption rallies held on September 21. According to Taule, the arrested individuals face several charges, including direct assault, violations of Batas Pambansa 880 (The Public Assembly Act of 1985), resisting arrest, illegal assembly, and tumults and other disturbances. Each detainee is expected to post a bail amounting to at least P30,000. Authorities report that a total of 216 protesters were apprehended during the demonstrations in Manila, with the city government confirming that 192 of them are currently facing formal complaints. The list of those arrested includes minors. The detentions followed violent encounters between protesters and police officers after unrest broke out amid the demonstrations in the capital.

Thirty-Five Indigenous Groups to Participate in 2023 Dayaw Festival in Bacolod

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is set to hold the 2023 edition of its flagship Dayaw festival in Bacolod City, featuring participation from 35 Indigenous People (IP) groups nationwide. Scheduled from October 7 to 9, the three-day event seeks to celebrate and preserve the traditional cultures and heritage of the country’s diverse indigenous communities. This year’s festival, themed "Weaving Culture, Enriching Future," coincides with the annual observance of National Indigenous People’s Month as mandated by Presidential Proclamation 1906, series of 2009. Attendees will include representatives from the Northern, Southern, and Central Cultural Communities, along with Muslim Cultural Communities. "Dayaw is not merely a celebration but a call to safeguard our ancestral domains, uphold indigenous identities, and promote our rich cultural heritage," said Reden Ulo, NCCA Commissioner for Cultural Communities and Traditional Arts, who identifies as a full-blooded T’Boli. The festival will feature a variety of showcases, including traditional dances, crafts, and products exhibited at SM City Bacolod. Additionally, a market area at L’Fisher Hotel will allow visitors to purchase indigenous goods, highlighting the unique identities of each group. The opening ceremony is slated to take place at the Bago City Gymnasium with a parade and live performances by participating IP groups. The event will be graced by Senator Loren Legarda, further emphasizing the national significance of the festival. Marichu Tellano, NCCA Deputy Executive Director, remarked on the festival’s 15-year legacy, noting the commission’s commitment to rotating the event across different regions. Bacolod City last hosted Dayaw in 2022, continuing a growing tradition of celebrating indigenous cultures throughout the Philippines. The festival underscores the importance of cultural preservation and community empowerment among the country's indigenous peoples, aiming to educate the broader public while fostering pride within the communities themselves.

Court Operations Suspended Across Multiple Regions Due to Super Typhoon "Opong"

Acting Chief Justice Marvic Leonen has issued a directive suspending court activities across Metro Manila and 26 additional provinces on Friday, September 26, as the country braces for the arrival of Super Typhoon "Opong." The suspension covers the Supreme Court, all appellate courts except the Court of Appeals in Cagayan de Oro, and all first and second level courts in the affected areas. According to the memorandum, this temporary closure aims to ensure the safety of court personnel and the public amid the severe weather threat. Although regular court functions will cease, a skeleton crew must remain to attend to urgent matters such as bail applications, writs of habeas corpus, and other emergency relief petitions. Furthermore, September 26 will be considered a legal holiday for the computation of filing deadlines and other procedural periods. The memorandum also tasks court chiefs, presiding justices, and executive judges with overseeing the enforcement of this suspension and assessing any damages or impacts on court facilities and staff. The suspension applies to first and second level courts in the following locations: Metro Manila, Aklan, Albay, Antique, Batangas, Bataan, Biliran, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Capiz, Cavite, Catanduanes, Guimaras, Iloilo, Laguna, Leyte, Marinduque, Negros Occidental, Oriental Mindoro, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Samar, Masbate, Rizal, Romblon, Sorsogon, and Quezon.

Philippine Army Recovers Rebel Weapons Following Clash with NPA in Oriental Mindoro

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna – Soldiers from the Philippine Army’s 203rd Infantry Brigade engaged communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in a short but intense 10-minute encounter in Barangay Manaul, Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro, on Thursday, military officials confirmed on Friday. During the clash, troops successfully recovered multiple items abandoned by the retreating rebels. Seized materials included a shotgun, a generator, a commercial drone, an analog phone and tablet, ammunition, bolos, medical supplies, backpacks, and hammocks, among others. Military sources revealed that the operation was initiated after residents of Barangay Manaul reported armed individuals allegedly conducting extortion activities, which heightened community alarm. Following the encounter, the military has intensified pursuit efforts to track down the fleeing insurgents. Meanwhile, the Mansalay Municipal Police Station has set up checkpoints to strengthen security within Barangay Manaul and neighboring areas. Brigadier General Melencio Ragudo, commander of the 203rd Infantry Brigade, called on remaining NPA members to lay down their arms and participate in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which provides support for former rebels seeking to reintegrate into civilian life. "We encourage those still holding out to stop the armed conflict and take advantage of the programs designed to help them return to mainstream society," Brig. Gen. Ragudo stated. Pursuit operations remain ongoing as local authorities maintain heightened vigilance to ensure community safety.