Senator Jinggoy Estrada Expresses Willingness to Open Bank Accounts Amid Corruption Allegations

Senator Jinggoy Estrada announced on Monday, September 15, his willingness to sign a waiver to allow investigation into his bank accounts. Speaking during a Senate plenary session, Estrada emphasized his openness to scrutiny even before the Blue Ribbon Committee, chaired by Senator Ping Lacson, commences its hearings. "I am open to any investigation. Mr. President, even though Senator Lacson's Blue Ribbon Committee has yet to start, I am willing to sign any waiver to open my bank accounts," Estrada stated. He also criticized what he described as selective targeting of senators in corruption probes, questioning why only senators seem to face such intense scrutiny compared to other politicians. "Why do they only want to crucify us senators? Why not apply the same to other politicians? Is it because we're well-known? That is unfair. We are all serving in the government, serving the people equally," he said. Estrada made these remarks following allegations presented by former Department of Public Works and Highways engineer Brice Hernandez, who implicated him in a corruption scandal involving flood control projects. During a recent House inquiry, Hernandez claimed Estrada received a 30-percent kickback from a P355 million allocation meant for flood control initiatives. Estrada strongly denied these accusations, questioning the validity of the claims and asserting his commitment to integrity. "How can I demand 30 percent? What is his basis? I have been here for a long time and I take care of my reputation. Why would I engage in such conduct? I would never do that. Is this because I am active in the Blue Ribbon Committee? Because I am doing my job?" he asked. Hernandez had presented photos showing Estrada with former Bulacan engineering district head Henry Alcantara, as well as screenshots of messages allegedly involving a staff member named Beng Ramos. Estrada countered these assertions by clarifying that he has never had a staff member named Beng Ramos since joining the Senate in 2004. He further explained that Ramos was affiliated with the Blue Ribbon Committee staff and previously dated one of his Senate aides.

Dismissed Bulacan Engineer Returned to Senate Custody Amid Controversy

Dismissed Bulacan 1st District Engineer Brice Hernandez was transferred back to the Senate detention facility on Monday morning. Senate President Vicente Sotto III approved the transfer following a request from Hernandez’s legal team, who argued that keeping him in the Senate would demonstrate the institution's commitment to confronting challenging issues and protecting those who expose them. Hernandez had been previously held at the Pasay City Jail after the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee cited him for contempt on September 8, accusing him of repeatedly providing false testimony during their investigation. During his time under Senate custody, Hernandez testified before the House Committee on Infrastructure on September 9. Under oath, he incriminated Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva, claiming both received 30 percent kickbacks related to Bulacan flood control projects—Estrada in 2025 and Villanueva in 2023. Both senators have categorically denied these allegations. Following his testimony, Hernandez requested a transfer from the Senate detention to a different facility on grounds of personal security, a request initially granted by Sotto, resulting in his movement to the PNP Custodial Center. However, the Senate minority bloc raised concerns about the transfer decision, leading Senate President Sotto to reverse the order and return Hernandez to the Senate detention facility, reaffirming the institution’s role amid the ongoing investigation.

Senate Committee Issues Show-Cause Order to Meta Philippines over Absence in Online Gambling Inquiry

The Senate Committee on Games and Amusement has issued a show-cause order against Meta Philippines executives following their failure to attend a scheduled continuation of the inquiry into illegal online gambling activities on social media. The hearing, which took place on Tuesday, aimed to address the migration of unlawful gambling from e-wallet applications to platforms owned by Meta, including Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and Threads. Facebook Philippines representative Genixon David informed the committee in a letter that their specialists would not be present at the hearing, proposing instead to arrange a meeting at a later date agreeable to both parties. This move was met with strong disapproval from Senator Erwin Tulfo, committee chairperson, who emphasized the importance of urgent dialogue. "No. Why are they dictating this committee when they can attend? If needed, we will subpoena their country representative. It is not an excuse to appear only at their own time," Tulfo stated firmly, highlighting the critical role Meta must play given the shift of illegal gambling operations onto their platforms. Supporting Tulfo’s stance, Senator Risa Hontiveros formally requested the issuance of the show-cause order against Meta’s representatives for their non-compliance and absence from the inquiry. Tulfo responded, "That's what we're going to do, to issue a show-cause order and consider subpoenaing them for not attending and for failing to cooperate with our request. This is a hearing focused on a national issue, not just confined to Metro Manila. Approximately 65% of Filipinos are engaged in online gambling, and we are working to find solutions." During the session, Ronald Gustilo, national campaigner for the civic group Digital Pinoys, revealed that illicit gambling websites are still active through backup links shared in Facebook groups and messaging applications such as Telegram and Signal. Reacting to Meta’s absence and refusal to attend, Tulfo criticized the company’s resistance, saying, "That’s exactly what I’ve been saying. I invited Meta, but they refused to show up. This might be the most outrageous case, yet they continue to be stubborn and insist on controlling the terms, preferring to meet privately." The committee’s firm stance signals escalating efforts to hold social media platforms accountable for their involvement in curbing illegal online gambling activities within the country.

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POLITIKO continues to affirm its dedication to delivering thorough and dynamic coverage of the political scene in the Philippines. As a well-established news outlet since 2014, POLITIKO serves as a dependable guide through the complexities of the nation\'s political developments. With a strong emphasis on journalistic integrity, the platform offers timely updates and insightful analysis, keeping its audience fully engaged and well-informed about the latest political affairs. Through its comprehensive approach, POLITIKO strives to remain attuned to the evolving political landscape, ensuring readers receive accurate and relevant information.

Former Actor Threatens Senator Jinggoy Estrada with Exposure of Alleged Double Life

A public dispute has erupted between former actor Robby Tarroza and Senator Jinggoy Estrada, with Tarroza demanding the senator's resignation or threatening to expose what he describes as Estrada's "double life." In a candid Facebook post, Tarroza accused Estrada of interfering in his past private affairs and hinted at revealing connections implicating the senator with Joed Serrano, a former "That's Entertainment" personality and businessman with whom Tarroza once had a long-term relationship. Tarroza declared, \"Jinggoy, mag-resign ka na. Kundi I will be forced to tell the country about your double life. You are one of the reasons bakit kami naghiwalay. I have ALL the receipts, dear. Try me.\" In subsequent remarks, Tarroza alleged that Estrada and Serrano engaged in a clandestine relationship during the 2004 presidential campaign of the late Fernando Poe Jr., an ally of Estrada's father, former President Joseph Estrada. He asserted, \"I have receipts. Joed can even testify how they were hooking up during FPJ's campaign.\" Although these personal allegations have yet to be substantiated, their emergence has escalated political pressure on Senator Estrada, who is currently confronting accusations related to corruption in flood control projects. Recently, former assistant district engineer Brice Hernandez testified before the House infrastructure committee that Estrada directed the allocation of approximately P355 million worth of flood control contracts to Bulacan this year. Hernandez further claimed that Estrada allegedly demanded a 30-percent kickback from contractors, an order purportedly issued by his former superior, ex-DPWH district engineer Henry Alcantara. Senator Estrada has strongly denied these corruption charges and challenged Alcantara to undergo a polygraph test. As of now, Estrada has not publicly addressed the serious personal allegations raised by Tarroza, which add an unexpected entertainment industry dimension to his ongoing political challenges. What started as a corruption controversy now threatens to evolve into a scandal with significant implications for Estrada's political future and public reputation.

Brazil Supreme Court Majority Votes to Convict Jair Bolsonaro for 2022 Election Interference

A majority of Brazil’s Supreme Court justices have ruled in favor of convicting former President Jair Bolsonaro for his role in attempting to disrupt the 2022 presidential election. The decision, reached on Thursday, accuses Bolsonaro of leading an armed criminal organization to maintain power after losing to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Justices Carmen Lucia, Alexandre de Moraes, and Flavio Dino formed a key bloc supporting the conviction. On the opposing side, Judge Luiz Fux dissented on Wednesday by voting for acquittal. Justice Lucia stated, \"The Prosecutor’s Office provided conclusive evidence that the group, led by Jair Messias Bolsonaro, comprising key figures from the government, the Armed Forces, and intelligence agencies, executed a coordinated and methodical plan to undermine democratic institutions with the objective of obstructing the legitimate transfer of power following the 2022 elections.\" The final decision now rests with Judge Cristiano Zanin, who will determine Bolsonaro's right to appeal the ruling. Should Zanin favor Bolsonaro, the former president could take his case to the full Supreme Court for further review. Bolsonaro faces five serious charges: attempting a coup d’état, participation in an armed criminal organization, efforts to violently dismantle the democratic rule of law, involvement in fomenting violence, and posing a significant threat to state assets. These offenses carry harsh penalties, with a maximum prison sentence of up to 43 years. Judges are scheduled to deliberate Friday on the exact sentencing and the location where Bolsonaro will serve any potential prison term, with options ranging from house arrest to confinement within a high-security facility.

Tommy Tiangco Honors Father Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco for Exemplary Integrity and Leadership

Online personality Tommy Tiangco has publicly conveyed his heartfelt gratitude to his father, Navotas Representative Toby Tiangco, acknowledging the impactful lessons of integrity and character imparted by his father.\n\nIn a moving tribute, Tommy stated, \"Thank you for everything you\'ve given me and everything you\'ve taught me, Dad. I\'ve never been prouder to be your son. It\'s an honor not only to share the same name as you, but also to carry the values you\'ve lived by every single day.\"\n\nHe further highlighted the leadership qualities his father exemplifies: \"What inspires me most is how you lead by example—showing me that real strength is about character, integrity, and standing firm no matter how difficult the road gets. You\'ve taught me that success isn\'t just about what you achieve, but about how you achieve it, and the kind of person you choose to be in the process.\"\n\nRepresentative Toby Tiangco has recently taken a courageous stance by exposing alleged irregularities in flood control projects, even implicating some fellow lawmakers within the House of Representatives.\n\nTommy expressed a strong desire to live by his father\'s standards: \"To be at least half the man you are is something I will always strive for. You\'ve set the standard of what it means to live with purpose and principle, and I can only hope to live up to that example in my own life.\"\n\nHe closed his message with heartfelt appreciation: \"I\'m grateful every day that I get to call you my dad. To be your son will always be one of the greatest honors of my life. Toby Tiangco.\"

Senator Robin Padilla Denies Reports of Disrespectful Gesture During National Anthem

Senator Robin Padilla has firmly dismissed reports accusing him of displaying an obscene gesture during the singing of the Philippine national anthem in a recent Senate session. In a live Facebook broadcast on September 11, Padilla clarified that he raised his index finger—not his middle finger—as he placed his right hand on his chest during the September 8 session. The incident coincided with a significant reshuffle in the Senate, following the ouster of former Senate President Francis Escudero and the election of Senate President Vicente Sotto III. Padilla explained that his gesture carries deep religious significance for Muslims. He stated, \"I want to make it clear to everyone that this sign is sacred to us Muslims, which means there is no other God but Allah. This is the foundation of our faith.\" He emphasized that his action was not meant to be disrespectful or offensive, adding, \"I would never commit such an act.\" The senator urged the media outlet responsible for the erroneous report not to trivialize his religious practice. \"Please do not turn this into a joke. This is the foundation of all Muslim faiths. When singing the \"Lupang Hinirang,\" while we deeply love the Philippines, our utmost priority is Allah,\" he noted. Furthermore, Padilla insisted that he did not show any disrespect towards the national anthem or the Philippine flag, stating, \"I did not disrespect our religion, nor did I disrespect our flag.\"

Bicol Saro Rep. Terry Ridon and Sen. Jinggoy Estrada Resolve Social Media Dispute

Bicol Saro party-list Representative Terry Ridon and Senator Jinggoy Estrada have mutually taken down their contentious social media posts, signaling a resolution to their recent disagreement. Ridon stated in a recent interview that although they have yet to engage in a direct personal conversation, both parties agreed through intermediaries to settle the issue and prioritize more pressing national concerns. He expressed gratitude toward Estrada for removing his post, saying, \"I am thankful because he deleted his post, and correspondingly, I also removed mine regarding this matter.\" Ridon further noted the significance of Sen. Estrada’s action, emphasizing their shared intent to move forward constructively. The dispute initially arose when Estrada shared a yearbook photo of Ridon alongside former DPWH engineer Brice Hernandez, revealing personal information that raised privacy concerns. Following this, during a budget briefing, Ridon inquired with the National Privacy Commission (NPC) about the potential implications, citing that Estrada might have breached the Data Privacy Act. Despite the seriousness of the matter, the two lawmakers have now chosen to put aside their differences. Ridon underscored their commitment to focusing on more important tasks that benefit the nation rather than prolonging the conflict.

Senate Leadership Confirmed Stable Amid False Reports of Change

Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo "Ping" Lacson publicly rejected circulating reports claiming a leadership change within the Senate. He described such claims as deliberate attempts to "deceive and confuse" and an underestimation of the Senate majority bloc's discernment. Lacson stated, \"Fake. Intended to deceive and confuse. Underestimating the intelligence of the new Senate majority bloc, fearing that someone will jump and sign.\" Adding to his remarks, he likened the misinformation to a "malicious and desperate" tactic, referring to the falsehood as \"Faky Breaky News.\" These statements were made following a Facebook post impersonating a media outlet that alleged Senator Alan Peter Cayetano had garnered sufficient support to become Senate President. Lacson emphasized the proper protocol, saying, \"The appropriate and professional process is to notify the sitting Senate President and present a resolution endorsed by at least 13 senators before any resignation takes place during the session opening — not through media announcements, regardless of their prominence.\" On Monday, Senator Vicente "Tito" Sotto III was officially reinstated as Senate President, replacing Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero. The change occurred after Senator Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri moved in plenary to declare the Senate Presidency vacant, a motion approved by Escudero. Zubiri then nominated Sotto, praising him as a \"leader of great integrity,\" a nomination seconded by Senator Loren Legarda. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian also weighed in, affirming that no major leadership overhaul had taken place. In a radio interview, he stated, \"There is no change in leadership; we have merely appointed a new Senate President. The majority prioritizes stability amid current national challenges.\" Gatchalian suggested that recent controversy relating to alleged anomalies in flood control projects might have influenced Senate dynamics. Two senators, Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva, were implicated by a former government engineer but have firmly denied the accusations. He further underscored the need for "stable leadership to properly investigate these matters." Meanwhile, Senator Cayetano, representing the minority bloc, expressed cautious support for an independent commission investigating ghost flood control projects. He stressed that any endorsement would depend on the commission’s independence from political interests and business influences, noting that the minority group would deliberate internally before deciding on a formal stance. The Senate leadership thus remains steady as the chamber continues to address pressing national issues.