Context Dispatch
7.4 magnitude quake hits Davao Oriental
A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck offshore Davao Oriental early Friday, prompting a tsunami warning for coastal areas in Mindanao and the Visayas as well as parts of Indonesia, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
Japan, PH test new defense pact in Cebu
The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has deployed a C-130H transport aircraft and 30 personnel to the Philippines for bilateral training "DOSHIN BAYANIHAN 5-25" with the Philippine Air Force at Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
Japan, PH boost defense, disaster ties
Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani held a video teleconference with Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro, reaffirming defense cooperation and humanitarian assistance efforts.
Tokyo-Manila defense ties deepen amid maritime security focus
Japan and the Philippines continue to strengthen their maritime defense cooperation, with Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya reaffirming Tokyo’s commitment to supporting Manila’s maritime security capabilities during the Blue Economy Annual Trade & Conference (BEACON EXPO 2025) held at the Mall of Asia.
President Marcos names DOJ’s Remulla as Ombudsman
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Secretary of Justice Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla as the new Ombudsman, succeeding former President Rodrigo Duterte-appointee Samuel R. Martires whose term ended in July. Remulla, who has served Justice Secretary since 2022, is known for pushing reforms to modernize the justice system and fight corruption. With decades of experience as a legislator and lawyer, he is expected to uphold transparency and accountability. The Marcos administration has reiterated its zero-tolerance of corruption. Ombudsman, the government’s primary graft buster, serves a single 7-year term and can only be removed through impeachment for offenses such as treason, bribery, graft and corruption, or betrayal of public trust.
