Philippines Upholds Two-State Solution and Solidarity with Palestine Amid Ongoing Middle East Conflict

The Philippines reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict during an event in Makati City on Tuesday, emphasizing its solidarity with Palestine in seeking peace and prosperity. Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Migration Affairs Leo Herrera-Lim stated, \"The Philippines proudly joins the international community in commemorating the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian people. Our commitment to the two-state solution remains steadfast, as true and lasting peace in the Middle East hinges on establishing an independent and viable Palestinian state.\" Herrera-Lim also highlighted the intention to expand bilateral cooperation with Palestine in areas such as consular services, higher education, labor collaboration, technical and vocational training, and political consultations through a proposed Memorandum of Understanding. Having voted to recognize Palestine as a state at the United Nations General Assembly last September, the Philippines continues to advocate for sustainable peace. At the UN, Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro called for an end to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, underscoring the two-state solution as the only viable diplomatic pathway. Conversely, Israel has cautioned that advancing Palestinian statehood risks regional destabilization and complicates peace negotiations. Senator Robin Padilla, chair of the Senate committee on cultural communities and Muslim affairs, urged Filipinos to remain empathetic and raise awareness about the ongoing crisis. He described the situation not merely as warfare but as genocide requiring global humanitarian concern, transcending religious divides. \"We must acknowledge the suffering of others and unite as members of the international community to provide aid and support for recovery,\" Padilla remarked. Palestinian Ambassador to the Philippines Mounir Y.K. Anastas noted the somber mood marking the Palestinian National Day, attributing it to the fragile ceasefire and unresolved issues. \"Today is marked by absence of celebration due to the dire circumstances in Palestine. The ceasefire is appreciated but remains delicate; challenges persist,\" he explained. The United Nations International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Director Khalid Hassan called for a just and enduring peace, highlighting that while the October 7 attacks and subsequent violence remain unjustifiable, collective punishment must also be condemned. He stressed that the recent ceasefire represents a critical chance to chart a path toward stability for both Israelis and Palestinians. \"Political determination, ample resources, and united international support are necessary to ensure a hopeful future for these peoples,\" Hassan added. The ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement, initiated on October 10, paused a violent conflict that began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched attacks that killed over 1,200 people, including four Filipinos. The ensuing conflict resulted in the deaths of more than 67,000 Palestinians due to bombings targeting civilian infrastructure in Gaza. Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh reiterated in October that peace between Israel and Palestine remains the ultimate solution to the longstanding conflict in the region.

Actress Kaye Abad’s Las Vegas Trip Marred by Bag Theft Containing Passports and IDs

Actress Kaye Abad’s family getaway in Las Vegas took an unexpected turn when her bag, containing critical identification and two passports, was stolen during the trip. Abad, who was traveling with her husband Paul Jake Castillo and their two sons, shared the incident on Facebook on Wednesday, November 19. The theft occurred shortly after the family left their vehicle to grab lunch. Within less than an hour, thieves broke into their car and took the bag. Instead of enjoying their planned sightseeing activities, Abad found herself at a Las Vegas police station filing a report, a moment she documented with a photo shared online. "I didn’t expect that one of the stops we’d make in Vegas would be the police station," she wrote, highlighting the quickness of the incident. She also cautioned her followers against leaving valuables in vehicles, even for brief periods. Despite the distressing event, Abad maintained a positive outlook, considering the experience a tough but valuable lesson. She emphasized the irreplaceable importance of her family’s safety over material possessions. "I still believe everything happens for a reason," she added, expressing gratitude that her family was unharmed and reaffirming her faith during this challenge. At this time, there have been no updates on the status of the investigation or any suspects identified by authorities.

PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group Arrests Suspect in Online Child Abuse Case, Urges Parental Vigilance

The Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) has reiterated the importance of parental supervision over children's social media use following the arrest of a suspect involved in the sexual exploitation of a minor. During a press briefing on November 21, 2025, ACG Director Brigadier General Wilson Asueta revealed that a 39-year-old man was apprehended after an entrapment operation conducted on November 19 in Sariaya, Quezon. The suspect is accused of sexually abusing a 16-year-old student whom he initially contacted through social media in September. Asueta explained that the perpetrator lured the victim to his residence by promising a payment of PHP 200. Once there, sexual abuse transpired, and unbeknownst to the victim, the encounter was recorded in its entirety. About two months later, in November, the suspect attempted to coerce the victim into revisiting his home by threatening to share the explicit video with one of her friends. This threat prompted swift police intervention. \"He pressured the victim to return to his home and engage in sexual acts, threatening to distribute the video if she did not comply. This led to immediate police action,\" Asueta stated. The suspect faces multiple charges, including violations of the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009, Grave Coercion, the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children law, Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act, and the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. Asueta emphasized the critical role of parents and guardians in safeguarding minors online, urging them to educate children about online predators, discourage the sharing of intimate images, and monitor internet activity closely. \"The most important step is to report such incidents immediately to the nearest police station or the ACG’s cybercrime response team anywhere in the Philippines,\" Asueta urged. He further highlighted the necessity of guidance and monitoring, stating, \"We must not leave children alone to navigate online platforms. Teaching them about online safety and supervising their daily internet use is essential to protect our youth.\"

Singaporean Businessman Charged with Raping Minor in Manila in 2020

A Singaporean businessman, Narwani Ricky Ravin, has been formally charged with raping a 16-year-old girl in Malate, Manila, in January 2020. Ravin, who identified himself as the president of Mohan Customs Tailors based in Singapore, could not be reached for comment at the time of reporting. According to the victim’s affidavit, she decided to come forward to pursue justice after gathering the courage and understanding of her rights. The assault took place on January 27, 2020, inside a hotel, where Ravin, a family acquaintance and friend of her mother, allegedly forced himself upon her. The victim recounted attending a birthday party for an acquaintance during which Ravin introduced himself to her. Later that evening, he reportedly asked her to visit a connecting room to see a gift he brought from Singapore for her mother. When she hesitated, Ravin’s behavior escalated, and he forced her into the bedroom despite her refusals. She stated, "Narwani Ricky Ravin insisted I enter the bedroom; when I refused, he became angry, forcibly pushing me inside after threatening to hurt me if I did not comply." Once inside, he allegedly locked the door, restrained her on the bed, and sexually assaulted her despite her protests. The victim disclosed the incident to her mother afterward, though her initial account was met with disbelief. After reaffirming the truth of her statement, her mother attempted to contact Ravin, only to discover he had already departed for Singapore following the party. A witness corroborated the victim’s distress by submitting an affidavit describing her visible emotional turmoil as she left the room crying and trembling. The victim explained the delay in filing the complaint stemmed from her young age at the time and limited awareness of legal avenues for recourse. This case underscores the challenges victims face in seeking justice for sexual offenses involving minors.

No Filipinos Reported Injured in Bangladesh Earthquake, DFA Confirms

MANILA – The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has confirmed that no Filipino nationals were harmed in the recent powerful 5.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Bangladesh, resulting in three fatalities. The tremor occurred on November 21, with its epicenter located approximately 7 kilometers from Ghorashal in the Narsingdi District of Dhaka Division. The Philippine Embassy in Dhaka is actively monitoring the situation. "As of this time, the Embassy has not received any reports of Filipinos harmed or affected by the earthquake," the DFA stated. According to DFA records, there are at least 785 Filipinos residing in Bangladesh, with 200 to 300 documented in the capital, Dhaka. Local authorities reported that the quake caused the collapse of a railing on a six-story building, leading to three deaths. In its advisory, the Philippine Embassy urged Filipino residents in Bangladesh to stay calm, remain vigilant, and rely on verified information sources for updates regarding the incident. Filipinos in need of assistance can contact the Embassy through the Assistance to Nationals (ATN) Hotline at +8801905400079.

Bishop Evangelista Calls for Vigilance and Accountability Amid Corruption Allegations

Bishop Reynaldo Evangelista of Imus led a Mass and prayer rally at the City of Dasmariñas Grandstand on November 22, 2025, urging Filipinos to remain vigilant amid growing government corruption concerns. The event coincided with the diocesan celebration of the Solemnity of Christ the King, drawing more than 10,000 attendees from various parishes in the Imus diocese. In his homily delivered in Filipino, the bishop emphasized the need to closely monitor ongoing irregularities and ensure that those responsible face appropriate consequences. He stressed that "with the anomalies happening in our country, we must keep watch over all of them. If someone needs to be jailed, then they should be jailed." Bishop Evangelista categorically rejected tolerance for corrupt practices, stating, "We will no longer allow this kind of system. We will no longer remain silent." The gathering served not only as a religious celebration but also as a unified plea for good governance, transparency, and accountability—principles the bishop said have been undermined by officials prioritizing personal interests over public service. "People are tired of officials who think only of themselves," he remarked. Highlighting widespread public disillusionment, the bishop noted that frustration arises from leaders who "do not govern well, do not genuinely care, and do not truly love the people they vowed to serve." He called on Filipinos to demand integrity from their leaders and foster a culture of accountability beginning with responsible actions within their own communities. "The Filipino people are desperately thirsting for good governance," Bishop Evangelista said, adding that true progress depends on making transparency and responsibility the norm rather than the exception.

Senator Hontiveros Supports Passport Cancellation of Individuals Facing Human Trafficking Charges

MANILA – Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday endorsed the decision to revoke the passports of Cassandra Li Ong and former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, both implicated in serious human trafficking cases. She stressed that such measures are warranted to prevent them from evading legal responsibilities. \"It is only appropriate that their passports were canceled, especially since they seem to be attempting to avoid the law,\" Hontiveros stated. The senator expressed confidence that the two will ultimately return to face justice in the Philippines. \"They cannot run away from their responsibilities forever,\" she added. Hontiveros further called on authorities to extend their efforts beyond Ong and Roque, targeting the criminal networks associated with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) scam hubs. She pointed out that Alice Guo’s conviction should not be regarded as the conclusion of these investigations. \"She is not the only one who should be held accountable — all parties involved must be brought to justice,\" the senator remarked. The lawmaker pledged to remain vigilant in ensuring that all individuals and groups connected to human trafficking and POGO-related criminal operations face prosecution.

Paolo Contis Shares Joyful Family Moment at Blackpink Concert in Bulacan

MANILA, Philippines — Actor Paolo Contis recently spent quality time with his daughters at a Blackpink concert held in Bulacan, sharing the experience with his ex-wife Lian Paz and her current partner, John Cabahug. The group posted photos from the event, showcasing the joyful atmosphere as they bonded over their love for K-pop. Lian described the gathering as a heartwarming occasion that reflected their commitment to co-parenting and supporting their children together. "We’re a team when it comes to the kids! Xalene has been a Blackpink fan for a long time, and this day was special for her. It warmed my heart to see how much she enjoyed the concert. I am a fan as well, and so is our youngest, Niña. Even Xonia and John became fans that night," Lian shared. "The experience was wonderful, made even better because we had two adults looking out for the kids — John and Paolo!" She also expressed gratitude for the smooth flow of the event, noting the favorable weather and easy logistics. "Another moment to thank Jesus for making this happen. The rain stopped, parking and lines were hassle-free, and traffic going to and from the hotel was minimal. We are truly thankful!" Lian extended thanks to Paolo for inviting them and for spending time together as a blended family. In a recent social media post, Paolo also expressed appreciation to Lian and John for allowing him to bond with his daughters. The "Bubble Gang" star recounted enjoying a vacation with the entire family, stating, "My heart is full.. Thank you for a wonderful day! Being with your whole family was the best! Thank you for being such a wonderful host! I am speechless! God is great!" Paolo and Lian were married in 2009 but separated in 2012. Lian disclosed that she withdrew an annulment case filed in 2021 last March. Later, she married John Cabahug in a civil ceremony in September last year. This recent outing demonstrates the positive dynamics of their blended family as they continue to prioritize their children’s happiness and well-being.

Murder Suspects Allege Police Torture in Navotas City, Prompting Official Investigation

Two individuals accused of killing two people in Navotas City earlier this month have come forward with allegations of torture at the hands of police officers to compel their confessions. The incident reportedly took place on November 9. One suspect, identified only as "Dave," described enduring severe physical abuse, including being struck with a heavy object until he lost consciousness. Despite bleeding heavily, police officers allegedly dismissed his condition as feigned. \"They said I was just acting when I collapsed to the floor; I was bleeding profusely,\" said "Dave," whose injuries are evident in his mugshot, showing gauze covering the top of his head. According to their legal counsel, the suspects were transferred from jail to the Intelligence Section of the Navotas City Police Station, where the alleged torture occurred. Lawyer Cid Andeza detailed the methods reportedly used: \"They were beaten on the soles of their feet, their hands and feet were bound, and their heads wrapped in plastic, restricting their breathing.\" Andeza referred to this as "bagging," a known form of torture, adding that such abuses are widely recognized. The lawyer contends the suspects were coerced into signing extrajudicial confessions admitting they were responsible for the killings on November 3. He has already lodged a formal complaint against eight police officers implicated in the alleged mistreatment with the Philippine National Police Internal Affairs Service (PNP IAS). \"This is the first time I've encountered such a case. While suspects often protest their innocence, the physical evidence here corroborates their claims,\" Andeza stated. Responding to the allegations, PNP IAS Inspector General Brigido Dulay emphasized their commitment to justice: \"We take all allegations of abuse seriously and will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation. We uphold accountability and the rights of every person in police custody.\" Conversely, the Northern Police District, overseeing Navotas police operations, stands by its officers and maintains that the two suspects are involved in the killings. They assert their evidence remains strong and oppose removing the accused officers from duty. The implicated officers are anticipated to address the public in a media briefing scheduled for Thursday. PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño noted: \"They reportedly intend to respond to the complaints, framing the allegations as harassment following the arrest of the suspects.\" This unfolding case underscores ongoing concerns regarding police conduct during interrogations and highlights the importance of due process and human rights protections.

Gas Station Attendant Fatally Shot During Robbery in Masbate City

A gas station employee in Masbate City was fatally shot while on duty in an incident captured on CCTV. The footage revealed that two men on a motorcycle stopped at the station to refuel. Suddenly, one of the men drew a firearm and shot the attendant in the head. Authorities have identified the motorcycle owner, who stated that his two friends had borrowed the vehicle at the time of the shooting. Law enforcement officials are currently conducting a search for the suspects involved in the attack.