AGP Executive Report

Senate Leadership Row: Sen. Joel Villanueva said he will attend a possible special session, urging lawmakers to focus on urgent national concerns instead of taking sides amid the Senate power struggle. Education Support: The Marcos administration will distribute school supplies to 2 million Kindergarten to Grade 3 learners nationwide for the whole school year to ease back-to-school costs. China Sanctions Backlash: Lawmakers and military officials condemned China’s move barring Defense chief Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. and his family, calling it an affront to Philippine sovereignty. Crypto Oversight: The BSP tightened rules for virtual asset service providers, requiring deeper screening and continuous monitoring, while barring privacy-enhancing tokens from being listed. Cybersecurity Push: The PNP urged all government agencies to review cybersecurity after hackers defaced the Senate and House websites. Public Health Probe: A House resolution seeks an inquiry into the DOH’s schistosomiasis (“snail fever”) control program, saying the disease still hits poor rural communities hard. Disaster Aid: St. Peter Life Plan and Chapels offered free funeral and deathcare services for families affected by the Mindanao 7.8 quake.

Youth Leadership & Governance: Fifty-six BAGANI Fellows were commissioned in Quezon City to train young leaders for public service, with participants saying they want courage to speak up against corruption and political dynasties. Political Reform Debate: Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong defended the House anti-political dynasty bill as a genuine reform, even as critics say it may not fully break dynastic control. Impeachment Watch: House prosecutor Terry Ridon launched Bantay Impeachment, saying new impeachment-related assets allegedly tied to VP Sara Duterte and her husband were not declared in SALNs from 2007 to 2024. West Philippine Sea Tensions: Lawmakers condemned China’s reported floating structure near Scarborough Shoal, while Defense Sec. Gilberto Teodoro linked China’s sanctions to Philippine actions against alleged Chinese-linked illegal activities. Food & Farming Innovation: UPLB researchers are using genomics to develop improved ube varieties with higher yields and better nutrition. Disaster Response: Bukidnon extended ₱1.5M aid to quake-hit General Santos City, while isolated Glan families in Sarangani still struggle to get relief. Trade & Livelihoods: PhilExport Negros warned that a US suspension of Philippine blue crab imports could threaten thousands of jobs and urged faster government-industry action. ADB Crisis Financing: The ADB announced $4B emergency support for countries hit by the Middle East conflict, including support for the Philippines.

West Philippine Sea Tensions: China hit back at Defense Sec. Gilberto Teodoro Jr. with sanctions on him and family, while Manila called it an “unfriendly act” that complicates ties; the dispute also centers on China’s movable platform and sensors at Bajo de Masinloc, with PH pushing transparency and monitoring. Independence Day Politics: Independence Day messages and Senate drama stayed in the spotlight, from clashes over “Laban” symbolism to Vice President Sara Duterte’s push that corruption steals freedom, as police beefed up security around the GSIS Complex for Duterte supporters’ rally. Mindanao Quake Relief Gaps: In Sarangani’s hard-to-reach Glan community, families still wait for aid and survive on boiled bananas and sweet potatoes as damaged roads, weak signals, and lack of transport slow deliveries. Trade & Livelihood Shock: Negros exporters warned that the U.S. suspension of Philippine blue crab imports could hit thousands of fisherfolk and workers, urging faster PH-U.S. coordination to restore market access. Local Governance & Services: Cebu City tightened senior citizen cash-aid rules to curb fraud, while Manila rolled out more medical assistance under Kaagapay and opened a new Ongpin Food Court to boost Binondo’s food tourism. Agriculture & Food Security: UPLB researchers are developing improved purple yam (ube) varieties to raise yields and nutrition, and DA aid reached farmers and fisherfolk in Northern Samar with seeds, fertilizers, and livelihood support.

US-Philippines Defense: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio renewed the “ironclad” defense commitment as the Philippines marked Independence Day, citing the Mutual Defense Treaty and deeper Indo-Pacific cooperation. China-Philippines Tensions: The DFA said China’s sanctions on Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. are an “unfriendly act,” while Beijing accused him of political theatrics after barring him and his family from entering China. Independence Day Protests & Governance: Duterte supporters held a rally outside the Senate with police on high alert, as VP Sara Duterte warned that corruption threatens sovereignty and freedom. Cybersecurity: PNP-ACG said it will coordinate with the Senate over the defacement of the Senate website, stressing no sensitive data was compromised. Local Economy & Services: MIAA agreed to pay BCDA P48B for NAIA Terminal 3 property ownership to support long-term airport investments; DENR is expanding low-cost community water refilling stations. Health & Research: UP Diliman study suggests human-altered habitats may host more mosquito-borne viruses, adding urgency to disease surveillance.

Independence Day Focus: Quezon City and nearby areas marked the 128th anniversary with calls for sovereignty that goes beyond politics—energy security, jobs, and stronger institutions featured in local rites, while Calabarzon was declared free from communist insurgent influence under SIPS. Disaster Response: After the 7.8 Mindanao quake, lawmakers pushed for a P15B supplemental budget and LGUs kept relief moving as death tolls and missing persons were still being validated amid hard-to-reach areas. Cybersecurity & Governance: The Senate website was defaced, with PNP-ACG coordinating an investigation and officials saying no sensitive data was compromised; separately, VP Sara Duterte rejected extra-constitutional People Power moves while lashing Marcos over corruption. China Tensions: China barred Defense Sec. Gilberto Teodoro and family from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao, escalating sanctions tied to West Philippine Sea disputes. Water & Health: DENR is expanding low-cost community water refilling stations nationwide to improve access to safe drinking water. Finance & Crypto Rules: BSP barred VASPs from trading privacy coins to keep transactions traceable, as the central bank also reported external debt easing to a one-year low. Quezon City Angle: Chavit Singson was arrested in Quezon City for cyberlibel, underscoring the week’s push-pull between politics, online speech, and law enforcement.

South China Sea Tensions: China has barred Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and his family from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, saying his “irresponsible remarks” undermine Beijing-Manila ties. Cybersecurity & Governance: Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian said the Senate website defacement is part of escalating threats and urged NBI, DICT and cybercrime units to investigate; officials said no sensitive data was compromised. Impeachment Watch: A private prosecutor for VP Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial said he joined after being moved by a case involving a public school principal jailed for pocketing P5,000, arguing accountability should extend to misuse of public funds. Disaster Response: After the Mindanao 7.8 quake, Pag-IBIG offered a one-month housing loan payment moratorium and reminded borrowers about housing loan insurance for repairs. Local Safety: Dipaculao ordered a temporary closure of a resort after a drowning incident involving Ateneo players, citing noncompliance with safety rules. Education & Tech: UA&P announced a new BS Artificial Intelligence degree aimed at preparing students for AI skills and responsible AI governance. Independence Day Logistics (QC): MMDA listed road closures around Rizal Park for June 12 celebrations, with alternate routes for motorists.

Mindanao Quake Response: Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian and allied senators visited Sarangani and General Santos to assess damage and deliver food and cash aid, as DSWD provided P5,000 cash plus family food packs to about 4,000 quake-affected workers and residents. House vs Impeachment, Relief Still On: Akbayan Rep. Chel Diokno said House members are still responding to quake needs even amid VP Sara Duterte impeachment preparations, citing pledges totaling P9.25 million from 139 lawmakers. Independence Day Security in NCR: The PNP put all units on full alert for Independence Day, deploying 89,473 officers nationwide with about 16,000 in Metro Manila, including key areas like Luneta and major transport hubs. Metro Manila Traffic: MMDA announced Roxas Boulevard and several nearby roads will be closed June 12 morning, with alternate routes for motorists. Cybersecurity & Governance: The Senate website was defaced, but authorities said no sensitive data was compromised; a hacktivist group claimed responsibility. West Philippine Sea: Malacañang said President Marcos will not allow control of Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc) to erode, stressing diplomatic and legal steps. Education Disruption Risk: DepEd reported 8,642 Mindanao schools affected by the 7.8 quake, disrupting classes for 4.9 million learners. Power Costs: Meralco raised June electricity rates by ₱0.1488 per kWh, citing tight Luzon supply and a weaker peso. QC-Adjacent Sports Safety: PSC and UAAP backed reforms after the deaths of Ateneo players, with financial assistance pledged to families and support for a proposed Sports Coaching Act.

Mindanao Quake Response: Vice President Sara Duterte personally visited Malapatan and General Santos City to check on families and hospital patients after the magnitude-7.8 earthquake, as President Marcos ordered faster power restoration and road reopening to speed aid delivery. Local Business Impact: The General Santos business chamber urged immediate electricity and highway rehabilitation so firms can restart operations. Disaster Aftershocks: Residents in General Santos reportedly stayed outdoors amid ongoing aftershocks. QC/House Politics: Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin filed cyberlibel and perjury complaints at the DOJ against lawyer Levito Baligod and 18 alleged “bagmen” tied to claims she received flood-control kickbacks—she denied any cash was delivered to her or her office. Labor Policy: DOLE ordered all regional offices to stop processing Alien Employment Permits, centralizing AEP evaluation and issuance at the DOLE central office. West PH Sea/Maritime: The Philippines protested China’s floating structure at a disputed shoal, warning against island-building and maritime infringements. Retail/Trade: UK retailer Marks & Spencer signed a franchise deal in the Philippines with Indonesia’s MAP, with stores set to return later this year. Finance Watch: Fitch downgraded the outlook on Philippine banks to “deteriorating,” citing US-Iran war risks to oil prices and lending growth. Climate Resilience: A Tulane-led study found extreme coastal floods now happen far more often worldwide due to human-caused sea-level rise.

Mindanao Earthquake Response: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said families of quake victims will get ₱50,000 each, with ₱100 million released for General Santos City Hall rehabilitation as the death toll rose to 45 and 17 remained missing; Comelec Contingency: Comelec chair George Erwin Garcia said it may set up makeshift polling precincts near affected schools if they’re unsafe, to avoid disenfranchising voters; Ports Disruption: DOTr ordered ships rerouted from Makar Wharf in General Santos to Malalag Port in Davao del Sur to keep passenger and cargo service running; West Philippine Sea Tensions: The Philippines protested China’s floating platform at Scarborough (Panatag) Shoal, warning against turning it into a man-made island; Local Accountability Row: SC dismissed a petition over the Senate leadership dispute for lack of legal standing; Corruption Case Update: Ombudsman dismissal of plunder/graft complaints vs Exec Sec. Ralph Recto and ex-PhilHealth chief Emmanuel Ledesma drew fresh criticism from complainants; Trade & Customs: BOC found abandoned Chinese fresh onions worth over ₱86.6M and flagged unpaid duties, while PNP reported confiscated smuggled cigarettes worth ₱28.67M in Puerto Princesa; Jobs Watch: PSA data showed unemployment easing to 4.7% in April, but underemployment jumped to 15.2%.

Earthquake Response: A 5.4-magnitude quake jolted Mindanao (GFZ), as the country continues recovery from the recent 7.8 temblor that left dozens dead and tens of thousands displaced, with authorities pushing rescue, medical aid, and power restoration. Local Traffic Safety: The MMDA reminded the public that school zones are “no parking zones,” with daily clearing operations and safer sidewalk use as classes begin under the new three-term school calendar. Anti-Corruption Update: The Ombudsman dismissed plunder, graft, and malversation complaints vs Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and former PhilHealth chief Emmanuel Ledesma over the transfer of ₱60 billion in unused PhilHealth funds, citing lack of prima facie evidence. Power Theft Crackdown: The PNP signed an MoU with Meralco to intensify cases vs electricity theft, illegal connections, and pilferage of power materials. Sports: Tennis star Alex Eala advanced to the Round of 16 at the HSBC Championships in London after beating Zhang Shuai 6-3, 6-2. Crypto Tax Move: The Philippines will automatically exchange crypto-asset transaction information with foreign tax authorities starting in 2028 under the OECD framework.

Quake Response in Mindanao: DPWH said it’s assessing and repairing earthquake-damaged roads, bridges, hospitals, and schools, with initial damage estimates around P1 billion, after inspections in General Santos City and Sarangani. Senate Security & Impeachment Prep: Prosecutors and officials urged heightened protection at Senate premises as the impeachment trial of VP Sara Duterte nears, with claims of threats and tighter security measures. Senate Gridlock, Quorum Debate: Senate records were cited to defend a 12-member quorum as lawful, amid an ongoing leadership dispute. DOH Graft Probe Push: A health workers’ group asked the Ombudsman to investigate Health Secretary Ted Herbosa and an undersecretary over a business-class Switzerland trip tied to the World Health Assembly. Marcos, SONA Plans: Palace said the next SONA will be “simple” and “dignified,” with no red carpet and modest attire. West Philippine Sea Tensions: The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea said a floating platform with what appeared to be an antenna was spotted at Scarborough Shoal, prompting diplomatic action. PNP vs Electricity Theft: PNP and Meralco signed an MoU to intensify cases on illegal connections and pilferage of power materials. Local Sports: Alas Pilipinas was swept by South Korea in the AVC Women’s Cup, putting them near elimination.

Earthquake Response: A powerful 7.8-magnitude quake off Mindanao has killed at least 32 people, injured over 200, and damaged buildings, with tsunami warnings later lifted as search-and-rescue operations ramp up. Fuel Watch: The DOE says diesel and kerosene prices may rise again soon, while gasoline could swing either way, as Middle East tensions keep pressure on supply. Regional Prices: Central Visayas inflation stayed at 10.8% in May, driven by food and transport costs. Power Costs Strategy: Retail electricity aggregation is gaining traction, with firms like Cathay Land consolidating multiple sites under the DOE’s RAP to manage procurement and oversight. Digital Skills Gap: An ADB study finds the Philippines has the lowest digital skills demand among six APAC economies, even as requirements keep spreading beyond tech jobs. Flood Control Deadline: The World Bank urges DPWH and MMDA to finish the delayed Metro Manila flood-control project before financing closes in November. Women’s Business Support: DTI extends its partnership with WomenBizPH for six more years to expand market access, digital transformation, and finance for women-led enterprises.

Earthquake Response: A powerful 7.8 quake struck off Mindanao, killing at least 19 and injuring over 200, with tsunami warnings and reports of waves reaching about 1 meter as schools reopened and rescue teams rushed to damaged areas. Senate Leadership Fight: As the Senate remains split after the June 3 leadership dispute, constitutional experts urged all senators to attend any special session called by President Marcos, while Malacañang said options are being studied to break the deadlock. Flood Control Probe: The Blue Ribbon Committee resumed flood control hearings amid a credibility war over the “18 ex-Marines,” with the NBI saying their claims rely on hearsay and lack documentary support. Impeachment Trial Push: Akbayan’s Chel Diokno said the Senate should start the trial process in Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment case since there are no new answers to respond to. Education Reforms: DepEd rolled out a three-term school calendar and updated grading, assessment, and senior high curriculum to support millions of learners and teachers nationwide. Local Business/Jobs: Marcos ordered the West Cebu Industrial Park’s expansion to over 600 hectares, signaling more PEZA-led investment momentum. Public Safety: PNP is reviewing dashcam and CCTV footage to identify a hit-and-run SUV driver after a policeman was injured on SLEX. Sports: Alas Pilipinas bounced back by beating Kyrgyzstan 3-0 in the AVC Women’s Cup, keeping semifinal hopes alive.

Senate Gridlock Hits Appointments: Acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian warned that the Senate leadership impasse has stalled key work, including the confirmation of eight Cabinet posts and about 160 military and foreign service promotions, with papers reportedly not submitted since January. Impeachment Pressure: House Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega urged the Senate to settle its internal dispute so Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial can finally begin, saying delays risk derailing constitutional duties. PNP for School Safety: The PNP said it will deploy 55,507 personnel nationwide for the June 8 school opening, setting up thousands of Police Assistance Desks and mobile patrols around campuses. Marawi Displaced Demand Dignity: Nine years after the Marawi siege, evacuees in BARMM told officials they want permanent solutions, not just relief, as families struggle with long-term displacement. China-Taiwan Maritime Tension: Taiwan’s coast guard said it deployed vessels in a “standoff” with Chinese ships east of the island, after China cited Japan-Philippines maritime talks as a pretext. PH Reserves Dip: BSP data showed gross international reserves fell to a 16-month low at end-May, pressured by gold price declines and foreign investment outflows.

School Safety: The PNP says it’s fully ready for the June 8 resumption of classes, deploying over 55,000 cops and force multipliers nationwide, with Police Assistance Desks and patrols to protect learners from physical and online threats. Local Incident: In Candelaria, Quezon, a 13-year-old boy was wounded after a security guard’s 9-mm pistol accidentally discharged while being unloaded; the guard surrendered and police are investigating. Senate Tensions: Sen. Erwin Tulfo apologized to the Cayetano bloc after threatening arrest and physical removal during a Senate dispute, saying his remarks were wrong even if he wanted to stop delays. Public Order & Info Hygiene: The AFP warned of a digital disinformation tactic using photos of AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. to falsely imply military involvement in political activities and mass protests. Energy & Economy: House lawmakers passed the KALINGA bill, a fuel-price crisis response measure that includes a 15% windfall profit tax on covered oil firms during a declared national energy emergency. Clean Energy Push: Acwa and Emerging Power inked a deal to pursue up to 5,000MW of renewable and gas-fired capacity, with a near-term focus on the Green Energy Auction Program.

Human Rights Recognition: The National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL) received the 2026 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award in Washington for defending civil liberties and representing marginalized communities in the Philippines. Education Updates: DepEd denied a viral claim that classes on June 8 would be suspended, calling it fake news, as School Year 2026-2027 opens. Politics & Governance: Supreme Court said political dynasties remain an affront to the 1987 Constitution, citing reports that most House seats and many city mayors are held by clans. Senate Leadership Dispute: Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda questioned the legality of recent Senate leadership changes, arguing a majority vote wasn’t met. Impeachment Trial Focus: Bicol Saro Rep. Terry Ridon said their confidence in convicting VP Sara Duterte rests on evidence, not Senate leadership numbers. Energy & Economy: DOE is studying ways to fund a strategic oil reserve without using the national budget, including support from the World Bank, ADB, and Maharlika. Transport & Trade: Philippine Airlines is joining oneworld as the alliance’s 16th member, boosting Asia-Pacific connectivity. Agriculture Exports: First commercial shipment of fresh Philippine carabao mangoes arrived in Canada, opening a new export pathway. Weather: Tropical Depression Ester exited the PAR; PAGASA warned of moderate to heavy rains in parts of Luzon.