Photo credit taken from GMA Network’s 24 Oras       MAKATI CITY, Philippines — BDO Unibank (BDO) honors community efforts to fight scams. Representatives from the bank and the Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP) held a recognition ceremony for Barangay Bel-Air officials in Makati City, whose actions which led to the arrest of scammers equipped with International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) catchers—illegal devices that intercept mobile communications to facilitate scams. The Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) spearheaded last year’s operation after detecting unusual cellular signals in the area, indicating the presence of IMSI catchers. Through signal triangulation and close coordination with barangay officials, they were able to locate the source of these signals and identify the suspects. BDO plans to conduct more workshops in communities to share practical tips and insights on identifying fraud schemes, securing personal information, and reporting suspicious activities. The bank believes in the power of multi-sector collaboration among private institutions, government units, and law enforcement to prevent fraud and safeguard the public against evolving criminal tactics.  

MANILA, Philippines — A Korean national, listed as Most Wanted in a grave criminal case, was apprehended Friday night by the Philippine National Police (PNP), reinforcing its unwavering enforcement of the law within the country’s borders. Under the command of PNP Acting Chief, Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., operatives of NAIA Police Station 1, in coordination with the Manila Police District – Women and Children Concern Section (MPD-WCCS), served a Warrant of Arrest at 11:46 PM on January 23, 2026, at the 4th Floor, Room 410, NAIA Police Station 1, Terminal 1, Pasay City. The warrant stemmed from a case for Rape under Criminal Case No. R-MNL-26-00099-CR, with no bail recommended. The accused, a Korean national, was immediately placed under custody of MPD-WCCS. The apprehension highlights the PNP’s continuing commitment to ensuring that individuals accused of grave offenses are brought before the law, particularly in cases involving personal violence. It also reflects the sustained police presence in strategic locations such as international airports, where strict monitoring is essential to prevent suspects from eluding justice. Anchored on the PNP Focused Agenda, a strategic framework shaping institutional progress, the arrest aligns with the priority on Enhanced Managing Police Operations, ensuring that lawful court orders are carried out promptly and responsibly, reinforcing public trust in police actions. PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. underscored the importance of accountability, stating: “This arrest demonstrates that the PNP respects and enforces the authority of the courts at all times. Walang sinuman ang maaaring umiwas sa pananagutan.” In a separate statement, the PNP Acting Chief reiterated the organization’s duty to protect the public: “Our responsibility is to ensure that justice is pursued and that victims are given the protection they deserve. Patuloy naming gagampanan ang aming tungkulin para sa kaligtasan ng mamamayan.” As the PNP continues to pursue justice and maintain public safety under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the PNP continues to assure the public of its vision: PNP’s “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong mabilis, tapat, at nararamdaman.”    

MANILA. Philippines — The Student First Coalition has formally endorsed Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano’s The Learner’s Choice (TLC) in Private Basic Education Act of 2025, which aims to reform education subsidies by expanding private school choice for students and providing critical support to low-income families. In a letter of support sent to the Senate Committee on Basic Education, the coalition called for its urgent passage to address the school congestion problem as soon as possible. “We appreciate the provision… by Sen. Alan Cayetano, which prioritizes learners who are enrolled in or transferring from public basic education schools officially identified by the DepEd as congested as the first and second priority for voucher allocations,” Student First Coalition Convenor Assistant Professor Luigie Almojano said in the letter to the committee dated January 19, 2026. The senator’s measure (Senate Bill No. 422) replaces the current education support system, including the existing Educational Service Contracting (ESC) under Expanded Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (E-GASTPE). Cayetano now proposes for a single, portable voucher for K-12 students which gives families direct funding to choose any DepEd-recognized private school. His model is inspired by the City of Taguig’s successful voucher program, praised by the national Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) study. Priority for the most vulnerable Cayetano’s TLC voucher employs a tiered priority system. It targets low-income families in congested public schools and learners from low-income households who are not from congested schools but require financial assistance. Alternative Learning System completers are also included in the system. The senator emphasized that this is to “ensure equity and social justice, this assistance shall be targeted, prioritizing the underprivileged.” For transparency and accountability, DepEd will publish a database of participating schools’ fees and performance. The bill also boosts support for private school teachers through better salary subsidies and training funds. Oversight of the new system will fall to a Bureau of Private Education within DepEd, with Commission on Audit safeguards. It also encourages LGUs to align local scholarships with the portable national voucher. Ahead of the January 24 celebration of the International Day of Education, Cayetano framed the bill as a tool to drive a systemic shift in the basic education sector. “The collective, balanced, and sustained use of public and private education… will lead to better learning outcomes for Filipinos,” he said.      

MANILA, Philippines — Police in Caloocan struck a major blow against illegal drugs early today, uncovering a large-scale clandestine laboratory and seizing chemical precursors and laboratory equipment worth over PhP10 million. The operation sends a clear message: illegal drug operations will not be tolerated. Acting Chief PNP PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. lauded the swift response of the personnel, saying, “Muli nating pinatunayan na sa tulong ng bawat isa sa ating mga pulis, walang lugar ang ilegal na droga sa ating komunidad. To those who think they can hide behind shadows—hindi kayo ligtas sa batas.” The raid was conducted at around 8:16 AM today, January 24, 2026, in Caloocan City. Led by the Caloocan CPS, SWAT, and DDEU, the operation targeted a suspect at large for violating Section 8 of R.A. No. 9165, involving the manufacture of dangerous drugs and controlled precursors. Authorities seized two containers of liquid chemical substances believed to be phenylacetone, with a combined volume of approximately 20 liters and an estimated street value exceeding PhP10 million. Laboratory-grade glass flasks, separatory funnels, electric heating mantles, a stainless steel heating and mixing base unit, and other equipment used in drug production were also confiscated. Barangay officials and members of the media witnessed the search, and investigations are ongoing as police work to locate the suspect. Highlighting the success of the operation, PLTGEN Nartatez Jr. emphasized, “This accomplishment is a product of our Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO), part of our focused agenda to bring real change on the ground. Ang ating kampanya laban sa droga ay tuloy-tuloy, at hindi tayo titigil hangga’t hindi nasusugpo ang ilegal na droga sa bawat barangay.” The PNP remains steadfast in its commitment to Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman, ensuring that communities are safer and citizens feel the impact of responsive and effective policing.

    MANILA, Philippines — The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines announces three new cohorts of the English Access Program Scholarship in Davao City, Bohol, and Bataan, benefiting 150 high-achieving Filipino students. The program is a partnership between the U.S. Embassy’s Regional English Language Office, the Philippine Department of Education, and public schools in each location. Students and teachers selected through a competitive, merit-based process gain invaluable skills from American innovation and excellence in English language content and instruction, preparing them to enter the workforce. Funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the two-year, intensive after school program strengthens English proficiency while building digital, leadership, and critical thinking skills among public school students aged 13 to 15. Participants also participate in cultural activities, including celebrating American excellence in partnership with U.S. officials as part of America’s 250th anniversary and the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic relations in 2026. “By focusing on advanced literacy and professional-level communication, we are preparing these high-achieving students for the demands of the global workforce,” said U.S. Embassy Regional English Language Officer Jeff McIlvenna. “Their success is a direct investment in the future of the U.S.-Philippine relationship and our shared goals—ultimately making both our nations safer, stronger, and more prosperous.” On January 8, the Regional English Language Office launched the first 2026 cohort at Pablo M. Piatos Sr. Integrated School in Bunawan, Davao City, with 50 exceptional students joining from various schools across the area. “The English Access Scholarship Program plays a significant role in raising the English proficiency of learners, especially those from far-flung schools.  Through well-structured weekly lessons, interactive, learner-centered activities, and support from mentors, the program builds learners’ confidence and communication skills in English, empowering them to express themselves more effectively and opening wider academic and future opportunities,” said Department of Education Davao City Assistant Superintendent Rebecca Sagot. The second cohort launched on January 10 in Panglao, Bohol, with 50 students at Lourdes National High School. The third cohort, also with 50 students, will launch on January 17 at the City of Balanga National High School in Balanga City, Bataan. Since its inception in 2004, over 200,000 students in more than 85 countries have received the English Access Program Scholarship, including nearly 1,500 alumni in the Philippines.  Educators in the program also join a global network of Access teachers to strengthen their instructional skills through American English excellence to better serve their communities.              

MANILA, Philippines —  The Bureau of Customs–Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA), in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), intercepted packages containing suspected illegal drugs with an estimated standard value of P114,566,400 on January 8. The shipment, declared as malachite stones and originating from Congo, was flagged during X-ray inspection after exhibiting suspicious images. It was subsequently subjected to verification and a 100 percent physical examination. The examination uncovered four (4) boxes containing suspected illegal drugs weighing 4,320 grams, 3,622 grams, 4,599 grams, and 4,307 grams, respectively, with a total weight of 16,848 grams This operation was carried out in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify border protection and prevent the entry of illegal drugs into the country, underscoring the government’s whole-of-nation approach to combating transnational crimes. The seized items and involved individuals were formally turned over to the PDEA for proper disposition and further investigation. The incident constitutes violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended, and Republic Act No. 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno emphasized that the interception reflects the Bureau’s firm resolve to prevent illegal drugs from entering the country. “This is not just about enforcement. It is about protecting our communities. The Bureau will remain relentless in screening, inspecting, and stopping illegal drugs at our borders,” the Commissioner said. BOC-NAIA District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa underscored the importance of vigilance and inter-agency coordination, stating, “This result highlights the value of strict risk profiling and close coordination among enforcement units and partner agencies. Our personnel remain alert and ready to act on any shipment that poses a threat to public safety.” The BOC continues to strengthen its border control measures, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the country’s borders and protecting the Filipino people.  

MANILA, Philippines — Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco  met with the new leadership of the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) to discuss its 2026 roadmap, which focuses on continued support for DOT programs and strategies including partnerships for training and education (4Ps: Partnership for Professionalism and Progress Program), support for the Philippine Experience Program (PEP), and the development of meaningful travel products that celebrate Filipino culture, heritage, and local livelihoods. Secretary Frasco impressed on the importance of a strong and united tourism industry, and the critical role of tour operators as frontliners in shaping visitor experiences and driving inclusive growth across regions. She welcomed PHILTOA’s continued commitment to aligning private-sector initiatives with government programs, noting that collaboration remains essential in strengthening market competitiveness, improving connectivity, and expanding tourism opportunities nationwide. The Tourism Chief also emphasized the thrust of the current DOT toward advocacy and tourism industry development and not only promotion. The meeting also explored opportunities for joint initiatives in domestic and international promotions, capacity-building for MSMEs, and regional engagement anchored on the shared goal of delivering tourism growth that benefits communities and supports national development priorities. PHILTOA officials present were Maria Lourdes Japson (President), Mary Ann Ong (1st Vice President), Harold Atondo (2nd Vice President), Erlinda Tan (Treasurer), Arjun Shroff (Auditor), Cecille Kimpo (Trustee) and Lynne Adante (Trustee). DOT officials with Secretary Frasco included Undersecretaries Shahlimar Tamano, Ferdinand Jumapao and Maria Rica Bueno, Assistant Secretary Czarina Zara-Loyola, and HEA Frances Villarino.    

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police under the leadership of Acting Chief PNP, PLt.Gen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., reports that Traslación 2026 and the Feast of the Black Nazarene were carried out safely and in an atmosphere of deep faith, despite the procession’s extended hours, highlighting the endurance, unity, and resilience of the Filipino people. “This year’s Traslación once again showed the depth of our people’s devotion,” Nartatez said. “Sa kabila ng haba at lawak ng prusisyon, nakita natin ang pagtutulungan ng lahat. This proves that faith and public safety can move forward together.” An estimated 2.8 million devotees participated in the celebration, traversing key streets from the Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church. Lasting approximately 30 hours and 50 minutes—one of the longest Traslación processions in recent years—the event required sustained vigilance and coordination among security, medical, and crowd management teams to ensure the safe and orderly movement of the faithful. Throughout the procession, authorities monitored more than 1,000 medical-related incidents, the vast majority of which were minor and manageable, such as fatigue, dizziness, and superficial injuries commonly associated with large-scale religious gatherings. All concerns were promptly addressed by on-site medical teams and first responders. Two fatalities were recorded, and the PNP is coordinating closely with medical authorities and the families concerned. “We prepared for every possible scenario,” Nartatez added. “Dahil sa dedikasyon ng ating mga pulis, augmentation units, at partner organizations, narespondehan agad ang lahat ng pangyayari. The safety and well-being of every devotee remained our top priority from start to finish.” The PNP commends the dedication, professionalism, and endurance of its personnel, who worked continuously for nearly a full day to manage crowds, secure routes, and assist the public. “Ipinakita ng ating mga pulis ang malasakit at propesyonalismo, kahit sa mahabang oras ng pagbabantay. This operation was truly a team effort,” Nartatez said. The cooperation of the devotees also played a crucial role in the success of the event. “Malaking pasasalamat namin sa mga deboto na sumunod sa mga panuntunan at gumalang sa mga paalala ng ating kapulisan. Their cooperation helped maintain order and ensured a safer celebration for everyone,” he noted. Traslación 2026 stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the Filipino people, the strength of community cooperation, and the effectiveness of coordinated public safety efforts. It also reflects the continuing commitment of the Philippine National Police to serve with integrity, responsiveness, and compassion—living the mantra, Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman. As the celebration concludes, the PNP reminds all devotees and the general public to remain vigilant while traveling home. Observe traffic rules, watch out for personal belongings, and follow the guidance of traffic enforcers and safety personnel to ensure a safe journey.