Ombudsman & Flood Scam: Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez’s lawyer asked the Ombudsman to let him comment on any new allegations from former Public Works chief Manuel Bonoan, warning of due-process concerns as the preliminary probe into the multi-billion flood control scandal continues. Legal System: The 2026 Bar exams kicked off Sept. 6, with Justice Samuel Gaerlan telling examinees it’s “not a test for the weak,” as subjects span political/public international law, commercial law, taxation, and more in the coming days. QC Court & Sara Duterte Case: Vice President Sara Duterte posted P360,000 bail after a Quezon City court issued an arrest warrant over alleged grave threats against President Marcos and others; her camp called it harassment and she said she doesn’t feel safe. CHED Student-Athletes: CHED set limits on perks for student-athletes, aiming to curb commercialization and protect welfare after recent concerns in collegiate sports. Education Grants: In Quezon, Bukidnon, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto pushed to institutionalize the Expanded Presidential Merit Scholarship Program, awarding 155 “Presidential Scholars” under the SCPF. Health Budget Pushback: ACT Teachers’ Rep. Antonio Tinio criticized proposed 2027 DOH budget cuts, warning they will worsen hospital operations and staffing shortages. WPS Tensions: The Philippine Coast Guard and China’s embassy traded accusations over a Chinese survey vessel near Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal, with Manila saying no permit was issued. Culture & Creativity: Sen. Loren Legarda marked Philippine Creative Industries Month, citing the sector’s growing economic and job impact. Palawan Heirloom Rice: DA collected 300 heirloom rice varieties from Palawan indigenous communities for preservation and pest-resistant seed return. International Spotlight: Lea Salonga became the first Filipino to receive a Hollywood Walk of Fame star.