AGP Executive Report

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.

Senate Leadership Clash: Sen. Loren Legarda questioned the legality of the Senate’s recent leadership reorganization, saying only 12 senators voted—one short of the constitutional majority needed to elect key officers and committee chairs. Impeachment Trial Focus: House prosecution team member Terry Ridon said their confidence in convicting VP Sara Duterte rests on evidence, not Senate leadership changes, as the panel still needs the required vote count. Disinformation Watch: DepEd denied a viral claim that classes on June 8 are suspended, urging the public to rely on official updates. Weather Update: PAGASA reported Tropical Depression Ester has exited the PAR, but warned of moderate to heavy rains in parts of Ilocos and nearby areas. Public Health & Youth: World No Tobacco Day saw thousands of young Filipinos push for an immediate ban on vapes and e-cigarettes, citing youth-targeted nicotine marketing. Local Economy & Food Security: Central Luzon groups launched the Save the Rice Granary Movement, calling for a two-year moratorium on land conversion permits to protect farmland. Quezon City Angle: QC Mayor Joy Belmonte highlighted the role of LGUs in building a more resilient middle class at a World Bank forum.

Infrastructure Watch: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. inspected the Maharlika Highway rehabilitation in Samar, saying the project could cut travel time between Tacloban and Catbalogan from about three hours to 1 hour 45 minutes, with completion targeted for August and a reported cost of at least P16 billion. Weather & Public Safety: PAGASA said heat index forecast issuance will be temporarily suspended starting June 5 as the rainy season begins in western Luzon and Visayas, with monitoring to resume in March 2027. Climate & Livelihoods: On World Environment Day, Sen. Loren Legarda highlighted how climate change is reshaping the lives of fisherfolk and farmers and pointed to key environmental laws supporting resilience. Justice & Accountability: NBI chief Melvin Matibag said more ICC-related arrest warrants tied to the Duterte drug war may be expected within a month. Politics & Allegations: House prosecution panel spokesperson Zia Alonto Adiong said he is considering filing a libel case over accusations involving cash-filled luggage that he says are disrupting Senate work. Economy: Inflation eased to 6.8% in May, down from 7.2% in April, as transport and food price pressures softened, though risks like oil price spikes and El Niño remain. Sports: TNT Tropang 5G evened the PBA Commissioner’s Cup Finals at 1-1 with a 101-94 win over Barangay Ginebra, with Calvin Oftana scoring 31 points ahead of Game 3 on Sunday.

Inflation Watch: The Philippines’ inflation eased to 6.8% in May from 7.2% in April, but Malacañang warned not to get complacent as El Niño and possible oil-price hikes could push prices up again. Weather & Food Security: House Speaker Faustino Dy III urged the government to prepare early for a likely El Niño, citing an 80% chance forming by August and warning agriculture and food supply could be hit. Senate Quorum Fight: A high school teacher petitioned the Supreme Court to uphold the legality of the June 3 Senate session that declared quorum with only 12 senators, citing the Avelino v. Cuenco ruling. Impeachment Legal Skirmish: VP Sara Duterte’s camp filed a sweeping technical challenge to the impeachment case, while House prosecution leaders said they’ll respond via a manifestation, not a reply. Public Works & Politics: Senators Erwin Tulfo and Tito Sotto said they’ll pursue legal action over “maleta” cash allegations tied to flood control kickbacks, as lawmakers trade accusations over a Senate hearing. Housing Update (Cebu): DHSUD-7 denied claims of widespread delays in Cebu housing permits, saying only two Licenses to Sell applications are pending and already near completion. Transport Infrastructure: President Marcos inspected the Maharlika Highway rehab in Samar, aiming to cut travel time between Tacloban and Catbalogan and improve logistics and disaster response. Health System Access: A new analysis said the Philippines has capacity for healthcare, but access still depends heavily on location and resources.

Senate Power Struggle: The Integrated Bar of the Philippines says the June 3 Senate session that reshuffled leadership and installed Sherwin Gatchalian as president pro tempore was “lawful and valid,” citing the 1949 Avelino v. Cuenco quorum doctrine—while the wider fight continues to disrupt hearings and operations. Impeachment & Politics: Former Senate President Franklin Drilon links the leadership turmoil to the upcoming impeachment trial of VP Sara Duterte and the 2028 elections, as prosecutors and camps trade positions. Rainy Season Prep: PAGASA officially declared the rainy season’s start across western Luzon and the Visayas, warning of monsoon breaks and likely heavier rains despite looming El Niño. School Opening Readiness: DepEd launched Project Handa to speed up school-level checks on facilities, supplies, and instruction ahead of June 8 classes, while LTFRB reminded school transport operators to avoid overcrowding and enforce seatbelts. Energy Costs Aid: DSWD reported ongoing P5,000 cash assistance to PUV drivers and delivery riders in Calabarzon and Mimaropa to cushion fuel-price pressures. Environment & Transport: DENR paused tree-cutting along Manila’s Quirino Avenue for the SALEx link after public backlash, even as it cited forestry rules for infrastructure work. Public Safety: PNP ordered a deeper probe after P13.25M worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes were seized in Lanao del Sur.

Senate Tensions: Malacañang urged senators to “get your act together” as leadership chaos threatens the passage of priority bills, while the PNP said police will stay outside the Senate complex and only manage crowds amid expected vigil/protest activity. Flood Control Fallout: Senators aligned with Alan Peter Cayetano pushed through a blue ribbon hearing on flood control despite the standoff, as Cayetano warned staff that blocking resource speakers could bring criminal penalties. Impeachment Noise: Lawmakers named in allegations by “18 ex-Marines” denied receiving money, saying the claims are meant to derail the VP Sara Duterte impeachment process. Cyberlibel Case: A Quezon City prosecutor ordered the filing of a cyberlibel complaint against Catanduanes Gov. Patrick Alain Azanza over a Facebook post linking a petroleum firm to high electricity costs. AirAsia Philippines: CAAP set a June 6 deadline for AirAsia Philippines to settle unpaid airport fees, while the airline insists operations remain “fully operational.” Weather & Habagat: Pagasa reported light to moderate rains with occasional heavy downpours across parts of Metro Manila and Luzon due to habagat. Sports: The PVL Rookie Draft selected only 11 of 38 aspirants, with no picks after the second round.

Senate Power Struggle: The Senate’s flood control probe hearing was suspended after a leadership clash, with acting Senate president Sherwin Gatchalian ordering no official business on June 4 and allowing Senate staff to work from home, despite Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano’s memo saying hearings would proceed. House Passes Anti-Dynasty: The House gave final approval to the Anti-Political Dynasty bill on third reading, banning relatives from holding or seeking elective posts in the same jurisdiction. KALINGA Emergency Framework: Lawmakers also advanced the KALINGA Act, a permanent national emergency response plan to cushion fuel-driven inflation, energy shocks, and other crises. Aviation Pressure on AirAsia PH: CAAP gave AirAsia Philippines until June 6 to settle unpaid airport fees and obligations, saying operations at CAAP airports remain normal. Infrastructure & Flood Control: DPWH chief Vince Dizon vowed year-round dredging and desilting for the Pinacanauan-Cagayan river confluence under Oplan Kontra Baha. Climate Watch in Quezon: Infanta, Quezon issued heat advisories after a dangerous 49°C heat index reading. UN Security Council Bid: The UN General Assembly elected Austria, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago, Zimbabwe—and Kyrgyzstan beat the Philippines for the Asia-Pacific seat. Quezon City Arts & Culture: Dolphy’s tribute film revived talk of nominating the late comedy icon for the Order of National Artists, with QC Mayor Joy Belmonte among those reaching out.

Senate Gridlock: President Marcos urged senators to “get back to work” as the chamber’s deadlock keeps sessions from running and delays key legislative work. Political Dynasties: The House passed on final reading a bill barring spouses and relatives up to second degree from holding public office at the same time, pushing the measure further than past attempts. Impeachment & Security: The PNP said it will boost police visibility around the Senate amid heightened political tensions tied to VP Sara Duterte’s impeachment process. Quezon City Crime: The NBI arrested two people in Quezon City over an alleged multi-million-peso beauty clinic investment scam, with charges including syndicated estafa and securities violations. Local Weather: Infanta, Quezon warned residents to keep precautions after a dangerous 49°C heat index despite the rainy season start. Business & Transport: AirAsia PH said its flights are unaffected after CAAP reportedly issued a cease-and-desist order over unpaid airport fees. Maritime Tensions: Taiwan urged Japan and the Philippines to consult it over planned maritime boundary talks, saying the area overlaps with Taiwan’s rights.

Right to Information Push: The House approved on final reading the “right to information” bill (HB 9397), clearing it for bicam talks after 284 votes, aiming to strengthen transparency and curb secrecy blamed for past graft. Impeachment Tensions: UP law expert Paolo Tamase warned against “over-judicializing” VP Sara Duterte’s impeachment, saying the Senate should focus on truth-telling, not early procedural dismissals. Court Drama in Flood Case: Sen. Jinggoy Estrada’s camp asked the Sandiganbayan to let him skip BJMP uniform and handcuffs and to attend hearings via video, as Palace rejected claims of executive overreach in his arrest. Banking Stress Signals: BSP data showed banks’ NPL ratio hit an 8-month high in April at 3.37%, with soured loans rising to P579.9B amid tighter conditions tied to the Middle East war. Peso and Oil Pressure: MUFG warned the peso could slide to as high as ₱64.5 per US$ if the Iran conflict re-escalates, with oil prices and a hawkish Fed adding risk. Local Business/Services: EastWest and Visa launched enhanced priority banking for wealthy clients, while Pagcor tightened safeguards against casino money laundering. Sports (Quezon City readers): Barangay Ginebra and TNT set up the Commissioner’s Cup Finals rematch, with Ginebra seeking to end a long title drought.