Context Dispatch

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called Congress to a special session on June 17 to fast-track a package of priority measures and allow the Commission on Appointments (CA) to act on pending nominations to key government posts.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has filed a criminal case with the Department of Justice against Alice Leal Guo for alleged tax evasion and failure to file Annual Income Tax Returns for taxable years 2019 to 2023, involving an estimated income tax deficiency of more than P1.008 billion, inclusive of surcharges and interest. 

Japanese Ambassador ENDO Kazuya and Minister for Economic Affairs YOKOTA Naobumi attended the 2026 International and Private Partners’ Forum (IPPF) at Manila Hotel, hosted by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU). The event gathered government officials, business leaders, diplomats, and international bodies to discuss opportunities, challenges, and partnerships for development, with this year’s focus on the readiness of conflict-affected areas for local and foreign investment.

A powerful earthquake rattled large parts of Mindanao early Monday, prompting the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) to warn of possible damage and expected aftershocks. General Santos City recorded Intensity 7, while Palimbang and Senator Ninoy Aquino in Sultan Kudarat experienced Intensity 6 shaking. Instrumental measurements peaked at Intensity 8 in Malapatan, Sarangani. The quake was also felt across Davao Region, Cotabato, the Zamboanga Peninsula, Caraga, and parts of the Visayas. Authorities are assessing potential damage as local governments monitor affected areas and advise residents to remain vigilant amid continuing seismic activity.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel JS IKAZUCHI docked at the Port of Davao to reinforce longstanding friendship and growing cooperation between Japan and the Philippines. Its crew held meetings with Philippine Navy officials, including Naval Force Eastern Mindanao chief Commodore Ireneo D. Battung, to highlight joint efforts for regional stability and maritime security.