Manila Protest Turns Violent: Over 70 Arrested, Nearly 90 Police Injured

A demonstration opposing supposed government corruption along Recto Avenue in Manila deteriorated into violence on Sunday night, resulting in the detention of more than 70 individuals, including 20 minors, and injuries to almost 90 police officers.\n\nManila Mayor Isko Moreno strongly condemned the rioters, referring to them with derogatory terms, saying, \"Utak adik, utak talangka, matatapang lang 'yan pag magkakasama sila, kita mo ngayon, nag-iiyakan.\" This translated to describing them as reckless and cowardly, only bold when in numbers but crying afterward.\n\nThe Manila Police District confirmed multiple officers suffered injuries in the clashes, with one currently undergoing surgery. Mayor Moreno stated, \"Marami akong pulis na nasugatan. Nasa ospital ngayon, 'yung isa inooperahan.\"\n\nMoreno pledged to pursue legal action against all those detained, emphasizing, \"Lahat ng na-apprehend will be charged, I will make sure, that they will pay the price. Kung sumali ka, naki-sapak ka, kasama ka sa danyos. Criminal and civil. Pagsisisihan nila 'yan.\"\n\nHe questioned the legitimacy of many protest participants, asserting that several were not genuine activists but instead troublemakers who damaged both public and private properties under the cover of darkness. \"I don't think raliyista 'yung mga iyon... pero itong mga tolongges na kabataan, pagdating ng lilim ng gabi, nag-mob na. Maraming public and private property ang na-damage,\" Moreno remarked.\n\nThe mayor also clarified that police officers did not discharge firearms during the disturbance, and no fatalities were reported. \"Walang nagpaputok ng baril, kaya nga pinagpapasalamat ko na kahit sugatan 'yung mga pulis, talagang maximum tolerance,\" he said. \"Salamat sa Diyos... wala naman. Kaya lang mayroon akong isang pulis na nalagay sa alanganin ang buhay, medyo stable naman na siya.\"\n\nThe episode saw rioters throw stones, other objects, and even human waste at police officers while setting fires along the streets. Additionally, a branch of Sogo Hotel on Recto Avenue was vandalized.\n\nDespite the violent incident in Manila, Acting Philippine National Police Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. reported that demonstrations nationwide were largely peaceful. \"There were some isolated incidents done by unruly protesters. Most rallies went on peacefully because many participants cooperated with the authorities,\" he stated.

Senator Risa Hontiveros Conducts First Official Visit to CLMMRH as Senate Health Committee Chair

Senator Risa Hontiveros, recently named chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, made her inaugural visit to a government hospital on Friday, September 19, at the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital (CLMMRH) in Bacolod City. The trip aimed to provide her with a firsthand understanding of the hospital’s current conditions and operations. During her visit, Hontiveros met with hospital administrators to review CLMMRH’s vital role as the primary referral center for the Negros Island Region. Discussions focused on ongoing and proposed infrastructure developments intended to enhance patient care, including major facility upgrades and expansions, as well as the hospital’s budget plans for 2026. Expressing her satisfaction with the visit, Hontiveros stated, "I’m pleased that my first engagement in a government hospital took place at CLMMRH, a cornerstone institution in our universal health care system." She emphasized that her observations would inform the Senate committee's efforts to evaluate and strengthen the delivery of public health services. Following the meeting, the senator toured various sections of the hospital, engaging directly with patients and medical staff to better understand the challenges faced under current conditions. She noted, "This assessment will guide the committee in identifying how we can support the public health service delivery network more effectively." The hospital, led by Medical Chief Dr. Joan Cerrada, welcomed the senator's visit and expressed appreciation for her commitment to advancing health care services. Dr. Cerrada and her team highlighted the significance of such engagements in fostering collaborative improvements. Additionally, Hontiveros acknowledged an upcoming milestone, revealing that CLMMRH will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year, marking a century of dedicated service in the region.

Former Ilocos Sur Governor Alleges Paid Provocateurs Behind Anti-Corruption Rally Disturbances

Former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis "Chavit" Singson has accused masked individuals who disrupted the anti-corruption rally on September 21 of being compensated by groups linked to former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and First Lady Liza Araneta. The allegation was made during an interview on At The Forefront aired via Bilyonaryo News Channel. Singson stated that he provided food trucks for rally participants near the entrance of the upscale Corinthian Gardens in Quezon City. During the event, a group of masked men approached his food truck while loudly chanting "corrupt, corrupt, corrupt." After he confronted them, they removed their masks and apologized, admitting that they were hired to create disorder. "Everyone who came to the rally ate at my food truck. A masked group was banging on the gate and shouting 'corrupt, corrupt, corrupt.' I asked them who they were and why they were acting this way," Singson recalled. "They took off their masks and said, 'Sorry, we were just paid.'" When pressed about who compensated them, Singson said the group identified former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and the First Lady as their paymasters. However, Singson expressed doubt, suggesting there might be a third party orchestrating the incident. The rally descended into chaos, with reports of rock-throwing and tire burning leading to 113 arrests and injuries to 93 police officers. Renato Reyes, president of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN), who was also hurt during the event, denied any involvement of his group in the violent acts. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla further revealed that many of the masked agitators were minors, adding complexity to the unrest. The claims contribute to ongoing discussions regarding the forces behind the violence that marred the anti-corruption demonstration.

Peaceful Anti-Corruption Protest Held in Cebu City with No Reported Unrest

On Sunday, September 21, 2025, various activist and religious groups gathered in Cebu City to protest against government corruption, commemorating the 53rd anniversary of Martial Law. The Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO 7), led by Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, confirmed that the demonstrations remained peaceful and orderly throughout the event. Brigadier General Maranan praised the police force for their professionalism and dedication, stating, \"I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our troops whose professionalism, vigilance, and commitment to duty made this peaceful outcome possible. Your efforts exemplify the highest standards of police service in Central Visayas.\" In preparation for the rally, PRO 7 elevated its alert status to full readiness, deploying over 500 police officers from the Civil Disturbance Management unit and Reactionary Standby Support Forces to maintain order. The Cebu City Government also contributed with personnel from the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office alongside additional police support. Police monitored not only Cebu City but also surrounding provinces such as Bohol to ensure demonstrations remained nonviolent. During the protest, the transport organization Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston) filed complaints regarding the apprehension and citation of some of their vehicles. Police Lieutenant Colonel Miguel Andeza, deputy city director for operations, clarified that the Traffic Enforcement Unit and Cebu City Transportation Office were responsible for issuing citations when traffic regulations were violated, regardless of whether vehicles belonged to rally participants or other motorists. Lieutenant Colonel Andeza emphasized, \"If ever rally participants violated traffic ordinances, they will definitely be issued a citation. Since they were cited, that means they committed a traffic violation.\" He also dismissed allegations that police targeted only rally participants, noting that other motorists were similarly cited for infractions. Overall, the event concluded without any reports of unrest, underscoring effective coordination between police and local government units to safeguard public safety during large-scale demonstrations.

Bataan Police Detain Top Drug Suspect and Two Other Fugitives in Province-wide Operation

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — A comprehensive law enforcement operation conducted by the Bataan Police Provincial Office (BPPO) led to the arrest of a drug suspect ranked among the Top 3 Most Wanted in Morong, Bataan, along with two other fugitives. Provincial Director PCOL Marites Salvadora reported that the successful operation took place in Barangay Binaritan, Morong, involving multiple units such as the Morong Municipal Police Station, the 1st and 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Companies (PMFC), the Morong Maritime Law Enforcement Team, and the 302nd Maneuver Company of RMFB 3. The primary suspect is facing charges under Section 12, Article II of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. In a separate enforcement action, manhunt teams from the Hermosa Municipal Police Station, in coordination with the Bataan Provincial Intelligence Unit, the 1st PMFC, and the Bataan Provincial Intelligence Team, apprehended another wanted individual in Barangay San Pedro, Hermosa. This suspect is charged with Other Light Threats and Slight Physical Injuries. Additionally, the Samal Municipal Police Station executed an arrest warrant at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) facility in Doña, Orani, resulting in the detention of a person wanted for theft. PCOL Salvadora emphasized the BPPO’s steadfast commitment to ensuring that offenders face justice, stating, "These arrests demonstrate the Bataan PPO's unwavering commitment to holding criminals accountable for their actions." She affirmed that law enforcement will continue its efforts under the guidance of PRO3 and the Philippine National Police to capture fugitives. The provincial director also appealed to the public to assist authorities by sharing information that could facilitate the identification and capture of other wanted criminals within the province.

Man Arrested in Naga City for Alleged Sexual Assault on Minor Relative

Authorities in Naga City arrested a 47-year-old man, identified as Rene, for allegedly assaulting his minor niece while she was asleep at their residence in Barangay Tangke. The apprehension took place at 12:19 p.m. on Sunday, September 21, 2025, following a report filed by the victim and her mother around 11:40 a.m. the same day. The incident reportedly occurred at approximately 8:00 a.m. inside their home. The victim was startled when she realized someone was inappropriately touching her private parts. Upon awakening, she discovered that the suspect was her uncle. Despite being awake, Rene allegedly continued his inappropriate actions and kissed the victim. The victim immediately got up and informed her mother about the assault, prompting the suspect to flee the scene. Police operatives, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Verniño Noserale of the Naga City Police Station, responded swiftly to the complaint and successfully arrested Rene. The case remains under investigation as authorities continue to gather evidence and ensure the protection of the victim's rights.

Challenges and Hope for Journalism in Post-Siege Marawi

MARAWI, Philippines – In the aftermath of the 2017 Marawi siege, the flow of accurate information faced severe disruption as social media platforms, particularly Facebook, became the primary news outlets for residents. These citizen-led pages, often anonymous and unregulated, rapidly supplied updates but frequently at the cost of journalistic integrity and factual accuracy. Numerous Facebook pages, such as Marawi News Online and Marawi City Bayan Patrol, have amassed large followings while routinely reposting unverified content lifted without consent from established news organizations. Posts often blended personal opinion with purported news, blurring the lines between fact and fiction and contributing to persistent public confusion. MJournal, another influential page, marked by its claims of nonpartisanship, conducted election-related polls whose results diverged notably from official election outcomes. Despite maintaining a veneer of professionalism, its anonymous administrators and lack of accountability raise questions about credibility. Local observers suspect multiple pages may be operated by the same entities, further complicating information reliability. Mindanao State University journalism professor Sorhaila Latip remarked, "Anyone can claim they are journalists," underscoring the challenges posed by anonymous social media actors. Meanwhile, state-run Radyo Pilipinas-Marawi has reported instances of its content being lifted and republished without attribution by these pages, further undermining professional journalism's role. Attempts to address misinformation, including direct appeals and police reports, have largely been ineffective due to the administrators' concealment behind anonymity. When contacted, only MJournal responded, asserting adherence to journalistic values but declining to reveal its operators. In contrast to these anonymous groups, community-based initiatives like S’bang Ka Marawi, supported by nonprofit organizations such as IDEALS, represent a growing force for citizen journalism. Since its founding in 2017, the platform has evolved from a radio station to a digital community news outlet with dedicated local reporters. Stringers like Nurainie Rakim have provided meaningful coverage, especially during the recent 2025 local elections, emphasizing the power of storytelling from within the community. However, journalism in Marawi continues to navigate complex cultural dynamics. The Meranaw concept of maratabat, emphasizing honor and respect toward elders and authority figures, exerts significant influence. As Latip explains, "By contextualizing the story and framing it with sensitivity to the community, there will be no threats to journalists." This cultural imperative often results in self-censorship, limiting critical inquiry and shaping how stories are told. MSU journalism chair Maria Ninotchka Herrera acknowledges this tension, stating, "To tone down stories for safety defeats the very purpose of reporting." Yet, recognizing the real risks journalists face, she stresses that safety must remain paramount in pursuit of press freedom. The media landscape in Marawi remains deeply intertwined with local political powers. Most mainstream media outlets are under political family control, granting them disproportionate influence. For example, Radio Dansalan FM affords exclusive airtime to the Gandamra and Adiong families, marginalizing political rivals and blurring the boundary between media and political advocacy. This concentration compromises the media's watchdog role, allowing disinformation to persist while leaving many residents dependent on a limited array of biased sources. The challenges of professional journalism amid political entanglements, cultural sensitivities, and security threats ultimately impact the community’s access to truthful, accountable information. Despite these hurdles, educators and citizen journalists remain hopeful. Herrera believes that sustained efforts in media education and community reporting are laying a foundation for gradual progress. "Maybe not in my lifetime," she reflects, "but the efforts we put into pushing for progress are already a stepping stone." Marawi’s experience underscores the critical need for reliable, culturally aware journalism to support democratic processes and community resilience in areas recovering from conflict.

29-Year-Old Man Arrested for Illegal Firearm Possession During Cebu Checkpoint Operation

In a routine checkpoint inspection conducted in the early hours of September 20, 2025, police apprehended a 29-year-old man found in possession of an unlicensed firearm on A. Soriano Street, Barangay Carreta, Cebu City. The suspect, identified as Jan Sol Ragasajo, an unemployed resident of Sitio Cabangcalan II, Barangay Bulacao, was stopped by authorities under the supervision of Police Major Eric Gingoyon, Chief of the Mabolo Police Station. During the inspection, officers discovered a .22 caliber revolver along with two live rounds in Ragasajo’s possession. He failed to present any valid permits or legal documents authorizing him to carry the firearm, which led to his immediate arrest. Ragasajo was subsequently detained at the Mabolo Police Station, where he is currently facing charges for illegal possession of firearms. Authorities continue to enforce stringent measures against unlicensed weapons to ensure public safety in Cebu City.

Children’s Group Condemns Arrests of Minors in Manila Anti-Corruption Protests

On Wednesday, September 24, the Salinlahi Alliance for Children’s Concerns expressed strong disapproval over the arrest of minors during the September 21 anti-corruption demonstrations in Manila, emphasizing that many of the detained children were mere bystanders. In a formal statement, Salinlahi rebuked Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla for allegedly disseminating misleading information about the involvement of children in the protests held in Mendiola and Recto. Trixie Manalo, spokesperson for Salinlahi, revealed that parents of the apprehended minors reported that their children were unlawfully detained despite only being present in the area during police operations. "The children were arbitrarily arrested during a police sweep," Manalo said. While acknowledging that some minors may have joined the demonstrations, Salinlahi underscored children’s constitutional right to engage in socio-civic activities. Manalo stated, "If minors participated in the protest, there is nothing inherently wrong. They have the right to oppose corruption, which threatens the future of Filipino children." This statement counters Remulla’s earlier assertions that the unrest in Mendiola was a coordinated "destabilization" effort involving organized groups. He further alleged that participants were compensated ₱3,000 each to join the protests. As of Wednesday, a total of 216 individuals had been arrested across various protest sites including Ayala Bridge, Mendiola, and Recto, with 95 of those detained being minors.

Severe Tropical Storm Opong Strengthens, Threatens Bicol Region with Possible Typhoon Landfall

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that Tropical Cyclone Opong has escalated into a severe tropical storm. As of 4 p.m. Wednesday, the system was situated approximately 670 kilometers east of Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, with maximum sustained winds of 95 kilometers per hour near its center and gusts reaching up to 115 kilometers per hour. PAGASA issued Signal No. 2 warnings for Northern Samar and the northern part of Eastern Samar, including municipalities such as San Policarpo, Oras, Jipapad, and Arteche, where gale-force winds are expected. Signal No. 1 has been raised for Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Masbate, Samar, the remainder of Eastern Samar, Biliran, and the northern areas of Leyte including Barugo and Tacloban City, signaling the onset of strong winds. The southwest monsoon (habagat) is simultaneously generating strong to gale-force gusts across a wide swath of regions. These include the Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Batanes, Cagayan and Babuyan Islands, Isabela, Zambales, Bataan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Metro Manila, Cavite, Batangas, Quezon, Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Negros Island Region, and parts of Mindanao such as Zamboanga del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Davao Oriental. Heavy rainfall is anticipated in Northern Samar and Eastern Samar due to Opong, while the southwest monsoon will also trigger significant precipitation over Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro. PAGASA has cautioned that there is a moderate to high risk of life-threatening storm surges, with waves projected to reach heights of one to three meters within the coming 24 hours. Vulnerable coastal communities in Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, Masbate, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Samar, and Biliran are especially at risk. Authorities warn that Opong is expected to continue intensifying and may achieve typhoon strength before its anticipated landfall in the Bicol Region on Friday, urging residents and local governments to prepare accordingly.