LP coalition’s NPC, NP still undecided on presidential bet

Despite President Benigno Aquino III's endorsement of Interior Secretary Manuel "Mar" Roxas II as the one to succeed him, political parties under the Liberal Party coalition are still undecided on who to support for the 2016 presidential race.
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Light to moderate rain in Zamboanga, scattered thunderstorms in PHL

Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay in Mindanao will experience light to moderate rain throughout Saturday morning and afternoon, weather bureau PAGASA said.
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Govt urged to prepare ‘ambitious, strong’ pledge to help lower carbon emissions

Filipino youth leaders are urging the Philippine government to come up with an "ambitious and strong" pledge—which will be included in a pact with other countries—to reduce carbon emissions.
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Pinoy boxer Bernabe Concepcion stops Tanzanian foe to capture WBO belt

Two-time world title challenger Bernabe Concepcion made quick work of Juma Fundi to capture the vacant WBO oriental super bantamweight title, Friday, at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay.
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PNoy remembers Cory through social media

Exactly six years after her death, President Benigno Aquino III remembered his mother, former President Corazon Aquino.
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De Lima says she’s 80% sure of running for senator in 2016

Justice Secretary Leila De Lima on Saturday said she is 80 percent sure of running for a Senate seat in the 2016 national elections.
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‘Bilibid 19’ taken back to the NBP

The “Bilibid 19”, inmates who were allegedly given preferential treatment at the national penitentiary and were thus transferred to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) headquarters, were moved back to the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa Saturday morning, GMA News' Hadji Rieta reported.
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DOJ's de Lima orders witness protection for INC minister's brother

Iglesia ni Kristo (INC) minister Lowell Menorca II's brother, Anthony Menorca, was placed under the Witness Protection Program after Anthony sought help from Justice Department because of alleged threats to himself and his family.
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Trillanes: VP dream could turn into nightmare if Binay elected president

Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV was all smiles Friday when asked about his intention to run for vice president in 2016.
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China, ASEAN agree set up hotline on South China Sea emergencies

KUALA LUMPUR—China and Southeast Asian nations have agreed to set up a foreign ministers' hotline to tackle emergencies in the disputed South China Sea, a senior official of the ASEAN grouping told Reuters on Friday.
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Erap open to supporting Roxas in 2016

Manila City Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada said he may still give his support to Interior Secretary Mar Roxas — a member of his Cabinet when he was president — in the 2016 national elections.
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DMCI: Rizal Shrine not yet 'cultural treasure, nat'l monument' when building of Torre de Manila began

The builder of the Torre de Manila said their tower did violate heritage laws that protect historical and cultural sites because the Rizal Shrine in Luneta was not yet declared a protected cultural treasure or a national monument when DMCI Homes obtained its permits and began building Torre de Manila in 2012.
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Lists of passers in Psychologist, Psychometrician Licensure Exams out

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced that 2,061 out of 4,466 passed the Psychometrician Licensure Examination while 36 out of 76 passed the Psychologist Licensure Examination given this month.
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UN rapporteur raps PHl for slow reconstruction in Yolanda-hit areas

The United Nations on Friday urged the Philippines to speed up completion of housing for thousands of people made homeless by super typhoon Haiyan (local name: Yolanda) nearly two years ago.
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WBC orders title eliminator between Denver Cuello and Raul Garcia Hirales

The World Boxing Council has ordered a final title eliminator to take place within the year between hard-hitting Iloilo native Denver Cuello and Raul Garcia Hirales of Mexico.
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Pinoy boxer Dennis Laurente ready for tough fight in PBC undercard

OPBF and WBC ABCO junior middleweight champion Dennis Laurente is primed and ready for his upcoming acid test against John Jackson on the undercard of Premier Boxing Champions on August 2 (August 3 PHL time) at Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida.
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Camp John Hay tenants may stay until P1.42B is paid to CJHDevCo –appeals court

The more than 1,600 tenants at the 247-hectare Camp John Hay in Baguio City cannot be evicted unless the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) pays Camp John Hay Development Corporation (CJHDevCo) with P1.42 billion in rental fees.
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LP exec: Chiz in the way of PNoy’s plans for Mar-Poe

The Liberal Party still wants Sen. Grace Poe as running mate for Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, with one official saying President Benigno Aquino III even promised her a prominent Cabinet post to prepare her for a presidential run in 2022.
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Sandiganbayan orders detention of ex-Deputy Ombudsman

The Sandiganbayan Second Division has ordered the detention of former Overall Deputy Ombudsman Margarito Gervacio Jr. several months after he pleaded guilty to a perjury case.
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VP Binay: Mar’s candidacy will highlight my strength

Vice President Jejomar Binay on Friday said Interior Secretary Mar Roxas’ impending candidacy for the 2016 presidential election will highlight his strengths as a leader when compared to the Cabinet secretary.
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Smartmatic exec tells critics to stop attempts to thwart automated polls

A top official of the Smartmatic-Total Information Management (TIM) Corporation on Friday told critics to stop their attempts to prevent an automated election next year.
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Agri chief Alcala is still highest-paid Cabinet official - COA report

Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala is still the highest-paid member of President Benigno Aquino III's Cabinet, the Commission on Audit's (COA) report on salaries and allowances for 2014 showed. 
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Senior DOJ prosecutor suspended over alleged bribery

The Sandiganbayan has ordered the 90-day preventive suspension of a senior state prosecutor of the Department of Justice (DOJ) who was accused of accepting bribe money from the members of the Philippine Airlines Employees Association (PALEA).
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Thunderstorm warning up over NCR, nearby provinces on Friday

State weather agency PAGASA on Friday issued a thunderstorm advisory in some parts of the National Capital Region and nearby provinces.
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COA report: PHL envoy to China highest paid gov't official in 2014

Seven diplomats dominated the list of 10 highest paid government officials in 2014, a report by the Commission on Audit report on salaries and allowances showed.
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14-hour battery life to ensure non-stop voting in 2016’s automated polls

Voting and counting will continue in the 2016 elections even if power interruptions mar the process, election Commissioner Christian Lim said on Friday.
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Mar needs to reinvent image to win in 2016 - Speaker Belmonte

Interior Secretary Manuel "Mar" Roxas and his team need to do one more thing to win the 2016 presidential election:  reinvent his image.
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Ruby Tuason: Enrile could have received more 'pork' kickbacks

Whistleblower Ruby Tuason on Friday told the Sandiganbayan Third Division that Senate Minority Floor Leader Juan Ponce Enrile could have received more kickbacks from the pork barrel scam than what was stated in the complaint of the Office of the Ombudsman.
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Chris Brown promoter told to answer raps in 15 days

The Department of Justice on Friday gave Chris Brown's promoter John Michael Pio Roda 15 days to respond to a US$1-million swindling complaint filed over the American R&B singer's failure to perform in a New Year's Eve event at the Philippine Arena.
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CBCP unit offering help in arranging accommodations for IEC delegations

With the International Eucharistic Congress in Cebu less than six months away, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines is offering limited help to delegates in getting accommodations.
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Roxas speech in accepting PNoy endorsement as 2106 presidential bet

The following is the full text of Interior Secretary Mar Roxas' acceptance speech after President Benigno Aquino III endorsed him as his presidential pick in 2016.
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Leni Robredo considering senatorial candidacy

Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo said she is unlikely to run as Interior Secretary Manuel "Mar" Roxas' vice-presidential candidate even as she expressed hope that Senator Grace Poe would consider running under the Liberal Party (LP) banner as Roxas' running mate.
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Analysts see only slight bump in Roxas ratings after PNoy endorsement

President Benigno Aquino III's endorsement may boost Interior Secretary Mar Roxas' survey ratings, but not by much, as other factors will also come into play, political analysts interviewed by GMA News Online said Friday.
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PNoy speech in endorsing Roxas as 2016 presidential bet

The following is the full text of President Benigno Aquino III's speech in endorsing Interior Secretary Mar Roxas as 2016 presidential bet.
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Progressive groups hit PNoy anointment of Roxas

Progresive groups criticized President  Benigno Aquino on Friday after he announced Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II as his prefered presidential bet for the 2016 elections.
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Poe to Roxas: I wish him well

Senator Grace Poe on Friday expressed hope that the 2016 presidential campaign will focus on good governance with Interior Secretary Mar Roxas as one of the possible candidates.
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VP Binay’s camp downplays Roxas endorsement

The camp of Vice President Jejomar Binay on Friday downplayed President Benigno Aquino III’s endorsement of Interior Secretary Mar Roxas as his successor.
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Mar Roxas: From Mr. Palengke to PNoy’s choice

Could this finally be the time for the grandson and namesake of President Manuel Roxas, co-founder of the Liberal Party in 1945, to shine?
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Emotional Roxas accepts PNoy endorsement

Interior Secretary Manuel "Mar" Roxas II on Friday became emotional as he accepted President Benigno Aquino III's endorsement for his 2016 presidential candidacy.
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PNoy endorses Mar as presidential bet for 2016

After keeping the public guessing for months, President Benigno Aquino III on Friday endorsed Interior Secretary Mar Roxas as his preferred successor.
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Korina says Mar ready for the challenge: Country above self

Television broadcaster Korina Sanchez said her husband, Interior Secretary Manuel "Mar" Roxas II, is prepared to accept the challenge of being President Benigno Aquino III's successor in 2016.
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Sandiganbayan cancels pretrial of Enrile, Reyes, Napoles' plunder case

The Sandiganbayan's Third Division on Friday cancelled the scheduled pre-trial of the plunder case of Senate Minority Leader Juan Ponce Enrile and his co-accused Jessica Lucila "Gigi" Reyes and Janet Lim-Napoles.
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Recto shuts door on Mar-Vi tandem for 2016

Senator Ralph Recto on Friday shunned the possibility of his wife's vice presidential candidacy under the ruling Liberal Party (LP).
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LP allies gather for Mar endorsement

Yellow-clad allies of the Liberal Party -- from Congress leaders to local celebrities -- gathered in a packed room at Club Filipino in Greenhills, San Juan City, anticipating President Benigno Aquino III's endorsement of Interior Secretary Mar Roxas.
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LP ally sees 'ratings bounce' for Mar after Noy endorsement

Interior Secretary Mar Roxas's ratings in the coming presidential surveys will improve after President Benigno Aquino III endorses him as the administration's standard bearer, a Liberal Party (LP) official said Friday.
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Petron rolling back LPG prices Aug. 1

Good news for households and taxi operators: at least one company is rolling back prices of liquefied petroleum gas products effective Saturday.
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Enrile, Gigi Reyes arrive at Sandiganbayan for pre-trial of their plunder case

Detained former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and his former chief of staff Atty. Gigi Reyes arrived at the Sandiganbayan early Friday morning to attend the pre-trial of their plunder case stemming from their alleged involvement in the multibillion-peso pork barrel scam.
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PAGASA: Rain forecast over parts of Visayas, Mindanao, south Luzon

Rain of up to moderate intensity is forecast over parts of southern Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao on Friday, state weather agency PAGASA said.
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Krisel Mallari asks court to cause arrest of high school officials

Krisel Mallari, the salutatorian who tried delivering a speech against her school last March, on Thursday asked the Court of Appeals to cite in contempt and order the arrest of officials of the Santo Nino Parochial School (SNPS).
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Electoral sabotage complaint filed vs. Smartmatic execs

Three Smartmatic officials are facing an electoral sabotage complaint for allegedly tampering votes during the 2013 elections.
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China next reclamation target is Scarborough Shoal –Justice Carpio

Scarborough Shoal is the next reclamation target of China, Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio said Wednesday in a forum that tackled the Philippines' efforts to secure its West Philippine Sea interests.
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AFP checking where ‘Chinese’ buoys found near Scarborough came from

The Armed Forces of the Philippines is set to determine where the buoys with Chinese characters on them that were found near the disputed Scarborough Shoal last week are from.
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PNoy’s endorsement not enough to get Mar to Malacañang – analysts

More than five years ago, Senator Manuel “Mar” Roxas II announced at a press conference at Club Filipino in San Juan that he will set aside his political plans to give way to Senator Benigno Aquino III who would eventually be elected president.
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SONA reflects PNoy's lacking action on agriculture –farmers' group

President Benigno Aquino III had no achievements to talk about In his two-hour State of the Nation Address when it comes to agriculture, according to the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP).
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#MMShakeDrill shows kinks in govt’s earthquake response

After the Metro-wide shake drills on Thursday morning and evening, Metro Manila Development Authority chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino admitted that there are still many areas of a post-earthquake rescue operations that need improvement. "Konti na lang po ito. Hindi naman po ito mape-perfect sa unang gawain," Tolentino said.
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Rainfall warnings up over parts of Luzon, Visayas

PAGASA on Thursday evening issued thunderstorm advisories in some parts of Luzon and Visayas.
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De Lima: ‘Improper’ for PNoy to include Mamasapano in SONA while probe ongoing

It would have been improper for President Benigno Aquino III to mention the Mamasapano clash in his State of the Nation Address because the investigation into the incident is still ongoing.
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Roxas visits father’s grave ahead of expected endorsement

Ahead of his anticipated endorsement by President Benigno Aquino III for the 2016 presidentialelection on Friday, Interior Secretary Mar Roxas visited the grave of his father on Tuesday night.
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LP warned of violating election law with PNoy’s endorsement event

The Liberal Party (LP) might commit an election offense if it proceeds with its scheduled event, in which President Benigno Aquino III is expected to endorse the presidential candidacy of Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, an election lawyer said on Thursday.
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Palace confirms PNoy to endorse Mar on Friday

President Benigno Aquino III will endorse Interior Secretary Mar Roxas during an event in San Juan City on Friday, Malacañang confirmed through an official media advisory on Thursday night.
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Ruby Tuason admits fleeing to US because of protests vs ‘pork’ scam

Whistleblower Ruby Tuason on Thursday admitted that she flew to the United States out of fear of growing protests after the expose of the pork barrel scam.
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No ‘pork’ in proposed 2016 budget, Palace assures public

Lawmakers were not given Priority Development Assistance Funds (PDAF), commonly known as “pork barrel,” in the proposed 2016 budget, Malacañang assured Thursday.
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Comelec poised to award P1.7-B PCOS deal to Smartmatic

The Commission of Elections (Comelec) is poised to award a P1.7-billion contract to Smartmatic-Total Information Management (Smartmatic-TIM) for the purchase of 23,000 new precinct count optical scan (PCOS) machines that will be used in the 2016 presidential elections.
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Enrile, Gigi Reyes, Napoles summoned for pre-trial of plunder case

There will be reunion of sorts for some controversial personalities who allegedly have ties in connection with the multibillion-peso pork barrel scam.
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PNoy's endorsement of Mar a sure thing, but endorsement no guarantee of victory

President Benigno Aquino III's endorsement of Interior Secretary Mar Roxas is anticipated to happen at the historic Club Filipino on Friday, July 31, nearly three months before the filing of certificates of candidacy for the 2016 national elections.
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SolGen blames Manila govt for ‘unconstitutional’ Torre de Manila project

The construction of the 49-storey Torre de Manila condominium violated heritage laws and the 1987 Constitution for marring the Rizal Monument's visual corridor, according to Solicitor General Florin Hilbay.
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Ombudsman bars massacre suspect Zaldy Ampatuan from holding public office

Maguindanao massacre suspect Zaldy Ampatuan has been perpetually disqualified from holding public office after he was found guilty of serious dishonesty and grave misconduct for under declaration of his assets during his term as Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) governor.
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PHL to file 3rd diplomatic protest against Canada over waste shipment

The Philippines is set to file its third diplomatic protest against Canada over the shipment of tons of Canadian waste to the country, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday.
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China’s reported dredging activities can bolster PHL’s arbitration case – Palace

China’s reported dredging activities in at least 10 South China Sea reefs can bolster Manila’s arbitration case against Beijing if verified by the Philippine government, Malacañang said Thursday.
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Pacquiao assured Binay he’d stay with UNA, VP says

Vice President Jejomar Binay expressed confidence Thursday that Filipino boxing icon and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao will not transfer to Liberal Party amid reports that some congressmen were wooing the latter to jump boat.
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VP Binay accuses ‘patrons’ of Aquino admin of cyberbullying him

Claiming he knows the anguish of people victimized by "lies and fabricated tales," Vice President Jejomar Binay on Wednesday night accused the “patrons” of the Aquino administration of bullying him on the Internet.
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PNoy skips Metro-wide shake drill

Asked why Aquino chose not to actively participate in the earthquake preparedness exercise, Coloma answered, “Ginawa ng Pangulo ang nararapat ayon sa kanyang pagpapasya.”
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Chiz Escudero: I will support Grace Poe whatever she decides to do in 2016

Senator Francis Escudero said Thursday that he will support his close friend Senator Grace Poe in the 2016 elections no matter what she decides--even if she chooses to seek the vice presidential post he is reportedly eyeing. "I will help and support Sen. Poe in whatever she may decide to do in 2016 (to run or not to run or to run for President or Vice-President) like what I did for her late father, FPJ, in 2004," Escudero said in a text message.
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Senate participation in #MMShakeDrill goes smoothly despite change of plan

Despite the sudden change in the evacuation plan, some 1,000 Senate officials and personnel were able to participate in the #MMShakeDrill Thursday morning.
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Palace employees join #MMShakeDrill; Cabinet execs lead evacuation simulation

Malacañang employees participated in the Metro Manila-wide earthquake drill on Thursday, with Cabinet officials leading the evacuation simulation.
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UK cautions nationals in PHL on sea transport safety during rainy season

The United Kingdom on Wednesday advised its nationals in the Philippines to be careful when traveling by sea, especially during the ongoing rainy season.
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Get ready for the #MMshakedrill today, July 30

Are you ready for the #MMshakedrill?
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Senate to participate in #MMshakedrill; liquefaction scenario factored

All the offices and personnel in the Senate are expected to participate in the Metro Manila-wide earthquake drill on Thursday at 10:30 am.
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Escudero wonders why he does not have Osmeña nod for Poe's veep

Senator Francis Escudero said Wednesday he does not know the reason Senator Sergio Osmeña III dislikes him as a potential runningmate of Senator Grace Poe.
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Safety expert reminds public to be careful on escalators

A safety expert has reminded the public to be careful when taking the escalator, following the death of a woman in China who fell into one on Monday. 
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In case of a disaster, have 'go bag' ready –emergency experts

Emergency response experts recommend that a "go bag" or survival kit be always on ready in every household for whenever disaster strikes.
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'Abducted' Iglesia minister belies alleged kidnappings in INC interview

The Iglesia ni Cristo minister who was allegedly abducted has come out with a statement denying that any of the supposed kidnappings involving him took place, a report from GMA's “State of the Nation” said Wednesday.
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Municipal agriculturist denies receiving farm assistance from Masbate Gov. Lanete

A municipal agriculturist from Masbate on Wednesday denied receiving agricultural packages supposedly funded by former Masbate Representative and incumbent Masbate Gov. Rizalina Seachon-Lanete’s Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel.
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NP now beefing up ranks; netizens drum up support for Miriam's prexy bid

Senate Majority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano said Wednesday the number of their members will determine whether they will field their own presidential and vice presidential candidates or coalesce with other parties including the Liberal Party.
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AFP asks Congress to ease procurement guidelines for defense equipments

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) asked Congress Wednesday to craft specialized rules for the purchase of defense equipments to resolve the bottlenecks in the upgrade of its gear stemming from existing government procurement laws.
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DOH officials: Deworming tablets given to Zambo students not expired

Officials of the Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday night denied that the deworming tablets distributed to students in the Zamboanga Peninsula were expired, which caused public elementary students to experience dizziness and vomiting.
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PNoy sisters vow to support his ‘chosen one’

Whoever President Benigno Aquino III will endorse in next year's presidential election will also get the support of Aquino's sisters, a television report said Wednesday.
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Party-list bloc distances self from anti-SONA solons

The 40-member party-list bloc on Wednesday distanced itself from the seven-member Makabayan bloc that held a protest inside the session hall of the House of Representatives after President Benigno Aquino III delivered his final State of the Nation Address (SONA).
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AFP seeks almost triple defense spending amid China dispute

The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Wednesday asked Congress to almost triple the annual defense spending over the next five years to upgrade equipment amid an escalating marine dispute with giant neighbor China.
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Lacson: I never felt welcome in Aquino Cabinet

Former Senator Panfilo Lacson on Wednesday said he never felt part of President Benigno Aquino III's Cabinet even when he was appointed presidential adviser on reconstruction and rehabilitation in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda in 2013.
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782 pass Master Plumber Licensure Exam –PRC

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on Wednesday announced that 782 out of 1,841 passed the Master Plumber Licensure Examination given in Manila, Cebu, Davao and Legazpi this July 2015.
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Luy says former Quiapo Church rector received monthly stipend from Napoles

Pork barrel scam whistleblower Benhur Luy on Wednesday linked the former parish priest of the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, more commonly referred as Quiapo Church, to the alleged systematic misuse of public funds.
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Senate to discuss BBL substitute bill in Monday's caucus

The Senate is set to discuss in a caucus on Monday the substitute bill for the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law.
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Chiz likens 2010 support to Binay to Roxas’ support to Gloria Arroyo

Saying he does not regret supporting Vice President Jejomar Binay in 2010, Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero on Wednesday said his action was no different from then-Trade Secretary Mar Roxas supporting then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
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De Lima: NBI probe on Iglesia ni Cristo abduction not yet closed

Contrary to the pronouncement of the National Bureau of Investigation, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima on Wednesday clarified that the bureau is not yet "closing" its investigation on the alleged abduction of Iglesia ni Cristo ministers.
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Palace exec on Binay’s planned counter SONA: 'Whatever, bahala siya'

“If the vice president wants to quote from fairy tales, it’s up to him.”
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Showtime exec insists September will be Mayweather's last fight

Showtime executive vice president and general manager of sports Stephen Espinoza has reiterated that September will mark Floyd Mayweather's final ring appearance.
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Palace appeals to House leaders to schedule FOI bill for plenary debates

Malacañang on Wednesday appealed to House leaders to schedule the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill for plenary debates, a day after President Benigno Aquino III asked Congress to pass the measure.
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Pacquiao didn't show signs of injury against Mayweather says Bradley's trainer

Timothy Bradley's trainer Joel Diaz doesn't think that Manny Pacquiao hurt his right shoulder when the Filipino fought Floyd Mayweather a couple of months ago.
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Chinese Embassy in Washington calls out NYT over ‘unfair’ editorial on South China Sea row

The Chinese Embassy in Washington responded to an editorial of the New York Times last week, deeming the piece "unfair" in discussing the arbitration case the Philippines filed against China over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) dispute.
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PNoy to endorse Roxas on Friday –LP official

President Benigno Aquino III is set to formally endorse the candidacy of Interior Secretary Mar Roxas  for president on Friday morning at Club Filipino, a ranking party official said Wednesday.
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Palace: Public safety should prevail over UST’s concerns vs. proposed catchment area

Malacañang on Wednesday defended the government’s proposal to build a catchment area at the University of Santo Tomas (UST), saying public safety during floods should prevail over the university’s concerns over its open field earlier declared as a historical landmark.
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Mar's ally wooing Pacquiao to drop Binay

A friend of Interior Secretary Mar Roxas is trying to woo boxing icon and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao into supporting his rumored presidential bid.
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AFP ready to defend military exercises with Japan before SC

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday said it is ready to defend the legality of its joint military exercises with Japan before the Supreme Court (SC).
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UST students, alumni hit back at PNoy

Students and alumni of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila shot back at President Benigno Aquino III after he alluded to the institution in his last State of the Nation Address as among those blocking his public works projects.
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AFP downplays China’s air, sea drills in disputed South China Sea

The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Wednesday downplayed the live-ammunition drills conducted by China in the disputed South China Sea, saying it is the nation's right to conduct such exercises.
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Mamasapano report to be discussed in Senate plenary soon – Poe

Reversing her earlier decision, Senator Grace Poe on Wednesday said that her committee report on the deadly Mamasapano incident will now be tackled in the plenary. 
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Prosecution moves for suspension of OMB chair Ronnie Ricketts, 3 others

The prosecution has asked the Sandiganbayan to order the suspension of Optical Media Board (OMB) chairman Ronnie Ricketts and three other officials of the agency in connection with their graft case for the alleged mishandling of confiscated DVDs and VCDs in 2010.
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Grace Poe no longer expecting PNoy’s endorsement

Even as she has yet to categorically state her political plans for 2016, Senator Grace Poe said Wednesday that she is no longer expecting that President Benigno Aquino III will endorse her for next year's presidential polls.
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Prosecution opposes Jinggoy’s bid for three-day furlough

Government prosecutors have opposed the motion of Sen. Jinggoy Estrada to leave his detention for three days to undergo medical check-up of his heart and gastrointestinal tract at the Cardinal Santos Medical Center in Greenhills, San Juan City.
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Palace urges gov't offices, private sector to join NCR-wide #MMshakedrill

Malacañang has urged government offices and the private sector to join the earthquake drill in the National Capital Region on Thursday.
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Slain NPA leader's suspected aide, 3 others nabbed in Davao

The suspected right-hand man of slain New People's Army commander Leonardo Pitao alias Kumander Parago and three companions were arrested in Davao City on Tuesday.
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Prosecution opposes Jinggoy’s request for medical leave

The prosecution blocked the request of detained Senator Jinggoy Estrada for a medical leave, a TV report said Wednesday.
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Antique gov to Semirara Mining: Be more responsible, find alternative pit to mine

Following two incidents within the past two years, where a total of 19 miners were killed, Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao called on the Semirara Mining and Power Corporation to close its operations at Panian Pit and find an alternative area to mine.
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Senators laud PNoy's push for FOI

Senators on Wednesday lauded President Benigno Aquino III's decision to push for the Freedom of Information bill in his message for the passage of the proposed 2016 national budget.
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Bishop to Aquino: Stop blaming predecessor for present woes

A Catholic Church official on Tuesday advised President Benigno Aquino III to stop blaming his predecessors, particularly Pampanga Rep. Gloria Arroyo, for the nation's woes.
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P3-T 2016 budget not for election campaign, Abad says

In an ambush interview following the submission of the proposed national expenditure program to the House of Representatives, Abad told reporters it is improbable for the budget to be used for the campaigns of national and local politicians since it can’t be disbursed all at once following its approval by Congress.
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Groups lament PNoy’s exclusion of environment issues in last SONA

Environmental organizations expressed their disappointment with President Benigno Aquino III's final State of the Nation Address, saying the two-hour speech delivered on Monday had little to do with environment and conservation issues.
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Surigao town officials deny receiving agricultural assistance from ex-APEC Rep. Valdez

At least three municipal officials, including an incumbent mayor, on Tuesday denied receiving any agricultural assistance from the pork barrel of former Association of Philippine Electric Cooperatives (APEC) party-list Representative Edgar Valdez.
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Post-SONA speech protest is freedom of expression –Makabayan bloc

The leader of the progressive Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives defended Tuesday their decision to rain on President Benigno Aquino III’s parade by staging a protest shortly after he delivered his final State of the Nation Address (SONA).
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House leaders hope PNoy’s push will improve anti-dynasty bill’s chances

House leaders expressed hope Tuesday that President Benigno Aquino III’s endorsement for the passage of the Anti-Political Dynasty bill during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) will trigger an upswell of support for the measure in the chamber.
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Abad hints at possible salary increase for gov't workers in 2016

Budget Secretary Florencio Abad hinted Monday at a possible increase in government workers' salaries before President Benigno Aquino III steps down in 2016. For 2015, in lieu of a wage hike, the Budget Secretary said the national government is planning to give a month’s worth of performance-based bonus to its workers, which is practically equivalent to a 14th month pay.
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PNoy to endorse Mar Roxas this week, says top LP official

After lavishing praise on Interior Secretary Mar Roxas at this final State of the Nation Address on Monday, President Benigno Aquino III will anoint his Liberal Party colleague as his choice for successor in 2016, a top party official said on Friday.  
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Some bishops not convinced PNoy licked corruption

Not all Catholic bishops are convinced by President Benigno Aquino III's claim in his State of the Nation Address that his administration has rooted out corruption as some said that while Aquino did not steal from government coffers, they believe state funds have been used to assert influence.
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Jinggoy wants three-day furlough for medical check-up

Detained Senator Jinggoy Estrada has once again asked the Sandiganbayan for a furlough, this time for a medical check-up.
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Support PNoy’s anointed one or resign from admin party, LP members told

Members of the ruling Liberal Party (LP) are expected to support the endorsed candidate of President Benigno Aquino III when its process of nomination starts in September, otherwise they should resign from the party, a party official said Tuesday.
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Koko Pimentel: 8 signatures in 2 weeks for panel nod of anti-dynasty bill

A day after President Benigno Aquino III asked Congress to pass a measure against political dynasties, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Reforms on Tuesday vowed to gather eight signatures in the next two weeks for the passage of the panel's draft.
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Palace confident Congress will pass anti-dynasty law

Can a Congress filled with members of political families pass an anti-dynasty law? Malacañang on Tuesday expressed confidence that lawmakers can take up this challenge.
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Palace: PNoy healthy but had vertigo on SONA day

President Benigno Aquino III remains in good health despite experiencing vertigo during his final State of the Nation (SONA), Malacañang said Tuesday.
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Local execs deny receiving agricultural assistance from ex-APEC Rep. Valdez

At least three municipal officials, including an incumbent mayor, on Tuesday denied receiving any agricultural assistance from the pork barrel of former Association of Philippine Electric Cooperatives (APEC) party-list Rep. Edgar Valdez.
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Quake drill prompts SC to extend Bar exam application till August 3

The Supreme Court has extended the deadline for the application for the 2015 Bar examinations, regarded as the most prestigious professional licensure exam.
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Groups bring case of imported trash from Canada before int’l convention

Two environmental groups have brought the issue on Canada's imported trash in the Philippines before an international organization, saying it is a violation of an international treaty.
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Poe distances self from Chiz’s decision to quit Senate finance committee

Senator Grace Poe on Tuesday expressed support for Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero's decision to resign as chairman of the powerful Senate finance committee, but was quick to clarify that it has nothing to do with her.
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PNoy asks Congress to pass FOI bill in 2016 budget message

President Benigno Aquino III has asked Congress to pass the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill in his message to lawmakers in the proposed 2016 budget.
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Palace submits first P3-trillion budget; over P400B set aside for education

Malacañang formally submitted Tuesday the Aquino administration’s proposed P3.002-trillion budget for 2016, with more than P1 trillion allocated for various social services. The General Appropriations Bill (GAB) for 2016 allocates an amount that is 15.2 percent more than this year's P2.6-trillion expenditure program, representing 19.5 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
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PNP chief: Charges to be filed in mobbing of intel officers at SONA protest

Philippine National Police chief Director General Ricardo Marquez said he has ordered the filing of charges against protesters involved in the mobbing of two government intelligence agents along Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City on Monday morning.
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SC seeks Palace, AFP side in plea vs PHL-Japan military exercises

The Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered Malacañang and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to respond to a petition seeking to stop the joint military exercises between the Philippines and Japan.  
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Sandiganbayan upholds six-year sentence on LP treasurer, other Mindoro execs

The Fourth Division of the anti-graft court Sandiganbayan has affirmed its ruling finding Oriental Mindoro Governor Alfonso Umali Jr. and two former officials of the province guilty of graft in connection with the alleged anomalous awarding of P2.5-million loan agreement to a private individual in 1994.
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MaSci seeks 'urgent resolution' of plea vs K to 12 Program

Teachers and students of the Manila Science High School on Tuesday asked the Supreme Court for an early resolution of their plea against Republic Act 10533 or the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013, which paved the way for the controversial "Kindergarten to Grade 12" or K to 12 program.
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VP Binay’s retort to PNoy’s ‘e di wow’ quip: ‘Wow na wow naman ‘yun’

While saying that he does not feel alluded to with the “E di wow” potshot of President Benigno Aquino III during his last State of the Nation Address, Vice President Jejomar Binay said PNoy’s statements were “wow na wow.”
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PNoy didn’t mean to devalue concerns of SAF 44’s kin with SONA snub – Palace

President Benigno Aquino III may not have mentioned the Jan. 25 Mamasapano incident in his final State of the Nation Address (SONA), but he still values the concerns of the families of the police commandos killed in the anti-terror mission, Malacañang said Tuesday.
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DOJ issues subpoena vs Chris Brown, promoter

The Department of Justice has issued a subpoena against American R&B singer Chris Brown and his Canadian promoter John Michael Pio Roda over a US$1-million estafa complaint filed by the administrator of the Philippine Arena.
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SAF44 kin hurt by PNoy’s SONA: ‘He thanked his barber and left out police martyrs’

The relatives of the fallen members of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) said President Benigno Aquino III should have at least mentioned the 44 elite policemen who were killed in Mamasapano, Maguindanao last January during his sixth and last State of the Nation Address on Monday.
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LP solon wants ethics probe vs Makabayan bloc members

A Liberal Party stalwart wants the House of Representatives ethics committee to investigate members of the progressive Makabayan bloc who flashed posters criticizing President Benigno Aquino III at the end of his final State of the Nation Address on Monday.
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Political expert: ‘Eh ‘di wow’ also applies to PNoy’s last SONA

While President Benigno Aquino III used the famous phrase to take an apparent jab against a critic of his administration, a political expert on Tuesday said "Eh 'di wow!" applies more to his last State of the Nation Address (SONA).
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Chiz gives up powerful Senate committee 'out of delicadeza'

Senator Francis Escudero on Tuesday resigned as chairman of the powerful Senate Committee on Finance and as co-chairman of the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on Public Expenditures out of delicadeza.
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Duterte gives PNoy 7.5 out of 10 in final SONA

President Benigno Aquino III is getting a grade of 7.5 out of 10 for his last State of the Nation Address from Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte.
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US retains PHL in Tier 2 human trafficking category as illegal trade of Filipinos persists

Human trafficking remains pervasive in the Philippines under the watch of President Benigno Aquino III although a number of convictions sparked hope that reforms are in progress, the US State Department said in an annual report released on Monday.
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PHIVOLCS: No tsunami threat from Indonesia quake

There is no tsunami threat from a strong quake that rocked Indonesia early Tuesday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said. 
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Nothing new in PNoy's last SONA, governance analyst says

Sa scale na 1-10 kung saan 10 ang pinakamataas,  6 ang ibinigay ng political analyst na si ramon casiple sa SONA 2015. Wala raw kasing bago ang huling State of the Nation Address ni Pangulong Noynoy Aquino. 
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PNoy cites PPP projects as proof of confidence in his administration

President Benigno Aquino III said the growing number of investors queuing for infrastructure projects under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) program is proof his administration’s “Daang Matuwid” anti-corruption program.
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PNoy takes apparent swipe at VP Binay in final SONA: E di wow!

President Benigno Aquino III on Monday used his sixth and final State of Nation Address (SONA) to take swipe at Vice President Jejomar Binay, who was present in the audience during his speech.
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Bettor wins P9M in Megalotto draw

A lotto bettor is now P9 million richer after hitting the jackpot of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office's Megalotto 6/45 draw Monday night.
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FULL TEXT (English Translation): PNoy’s last State of the Nation Address

"We are only in the first chapter of the great story of the Filipino people. Guided by the Almighty, as we continue to tread the Straight Path, we will fulfill even greater aspirations. We will open the doors to even greater progress. Our direction is in your hands."
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PNoy's criticism of GMA shows he has no accomplishments – Mike Arroyo

President Benigno Aquino III’s criticisms of his predecessor and incumbent Pampanga Rep. Gloria Arroyo during his final State of the Nation Address (SONA) was proof he had no substantial accomplishments to speak of, former First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo said on Monday.
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VP Binay vows to deliver contra-SONA

Left out of President Benigno Aquino III's list of officials to thank in the course of his presidency, Vice President Jejomar Binay on Monday vowed to give his own version of the state of the nation. “Pakinggan mo na lang yung aking State of the Nation Address,” Binay told reporters running after him to seek his reaction.
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SONA 2015: A guide for kids

What did the President talk about in his final State of The Nation Address?
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PNoy: 2016 polls will serve as referendum on ‘Daang Matuwid’

For President Benigno Aquino III, the 2016 national elections will ultimately test Filipinos’ approval of his “Daang Matuwid” platform.
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Detention due to selective justice, not anti-corruption drive – Jinggoy

Detained Senator Jinggoy Estrada said Monday that his detention, and of two other senators, is not because of the Aquino administration’s anti-corruption drive but due to selective justice.
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Cabinet secretaries, legislators give mixed views on PNoy’s last SONA

Cabinet Secretaries and some lawmakers gave mixed reviews of the fifth and last State of the Nation Address (SONA) of Pres. Benigno Aquino III, with some praising his cleverness for trumpeting the administration’s anti-corruption campaign while the opposition finding his speech too long and lacking in substance.
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Good, not spectacular: Senators find PNoy's final SONA wanting

Senators on Monday said they found the last State of the Nation Address of President Benigno Aquino III wanting because of his failure to mention the proposed Freedom of Information Bill and Mamasapano incident, among others.
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Lawmakers boo militant colleagues who criticized PNoy after SONA

Administration allies came to President Benigno Aquino III’s defense Monday night after seven of their colleagues from the progressive Makabayan bloc flashed posters criticizing the chief executive at the end of his final State of the Nation Address (SONA).
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Angel Manalo slams two Iglesia ni Cristo officials for corruption

Felix Nathaniel "Angel" Manalo on Monday named two Iglesia ni Cristo officials as part of the alleged corruption hounding the church leadership.  
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Poe on SONA split-screen with Binay, Roxas: 'I felt very awkward'

The moment came when Aquino spoke about the 2016 elections, highlighting the need for the electorate to vote for someone who would continue his "Daang Matuwid" after his term ends.  
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Admin, opposition allies note absence of FOI in PNoy's last SONA

Key administration and opposition lawmakers alike expressed disappointment Monday that President Benigno Aquino III did not include the proposed Freedom of Information (FOI) Act among his legislative priorities in his final State of the Nation Address.
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YouScoop: Netizens react to PNoy's final SONA in 3 words

As the president delivered his speech, netizens shared what they thought about the address in just three words.
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Abi Binay brushes aside PNoy’s snub on dad in state address

Makati Rep. Abigail Binay said she feels unaffected that her father, Vice President Jejomar Binay, was left out in the last state address of President Benigno Aquino III on Monday.
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PNoy thanks PSG, stylists, household help in final SONA

On his sixth and last State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, President Benigno Aquino III ran down a list of personalities he said he is thankful for — among them, his househelp, stylist, and hairdresser.
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8 firms roll back fuel prices

Eight oil firms rolled back prices of fuel products as early as Monday evening.
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INFOGRAPHIC: Timing PNoy's SONA

President Benigno Aquino III has shown over the years that he has a lot to say.
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FULL TEXT: President Benigno Aquino III’s last State of the Nation Address

"Nasa unang yugto pa lang tayo ng dakilang kuwento ng sambayanang Pilipino. Sa gabay ng Panginoong Maykapal, at sa patuloy nating pagtahak sa Daang Matuwid, lalo pang tatayog ang mga pangarap na maaabot natin. Lalo pang lalawak ang kaunlarang tinatamasa natin. Nasa inyong mga kamay ang direksyon natin."
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FULL VIDEO: President Aquino's 2015 State of the Nation Address

President Benigno Aquino III delivered his sixth and final State of the Nation Address on Monday. In the longest address of his term, Aquino took time to look back at his predecessor and looked ahead to the 2016 elections, which would determine his successor, while touting the gains under his administration.  
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Protest staged inside House plenary hall after PNoy’s final SONA

Protesters raised banners criticizing President Benigno Aquino III's government shortly after he touted his administration's gains in his final State of the Nation Address.
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PNoy praises Roxas, leaves out Binay in last SONA thank you list

President Benigno Aquino III on Monday lauded Interior Secretary Mar Roxas for his competence and dedication to the government but left out Vice President Jejomar Binay in the list of Cabinet officials he wished to thank during his term.
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PNoy in last SONA: It’s time for an anti-dynasty law

"Hindi tayo makakasiguro kung malinis ang intensyon ng mga susunod o kung nanaisin lang nila na habang buhay na maghari-harian para sa pansariling interes, panahon na para ipasa ang isang anti-dynasty law," President Benigno Aquino III said in the presence of Vice President Jejomar Binay, who has repeatedly aired his opposition to an anti-dynasty measure and who has three children in elective positions.
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PNoy: Even non-allies got infra projects

Both allies and non-allies received infrastructure projects from the present administration, President Benigno Aquino III said Monday.
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MRT woes aside, PNoy claims gains in PHL transport sector

The never-ending woes of the Metro Rail Transit aside, President Benigno Aquino III in his last State of the Nation Address cited his administration's gains in the transportation sector, asking the widely-criticized Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya not to lose heart.
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Senators say ‘daang matuwid’ is PNoy’s legacy

At least four senators have agreed that the legacy of the administration of President Benigno Aquino III is his fight against corruption summed up in the phrase "daang matuwid" (straight path).
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PNoy calls for passage of BBL in final SONA

President Benigno Aquino III on Monday used his final State of the Nation Address (SONA) to once again push for the passage of the controversial draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
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Police-to-pistol ratio now 1:1 under my term - Aquino

President Benigno Aquino III cited the Philippine National Police Capability Enhancement Program in his last State of the Nation Address on Monday, boasting that his administration was able to achieve a 1:1 police-to-pistol ratio.
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PNoy vows additional equipment for AFP

President Benigno Aquino III on Monday pledged to provide more new equipment for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), as part of his administration’s effort to modernize the military.
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PNoy: PhilHealth now has 89.4M beneficiaries

President Benigno Aquino III on Monday boasted that some 89.4 million Filipinos can now avail of free health assistance coverage through the Philippine Health Insurance Corp.
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PNoy: From P4.2B in 9 years of Arroyo, GOCCs earned P130B in past 4 years

Government-owned and controlled corporations have delivered to the national treasury more than P130 billion over the past four years, President Benigno Aquino III said in his final State of the Nation Address on Monday.
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PNoy: Govt to fund K-to-12 program’s full implementation in 2016

President Benigno Aquino III on Monday vowed to fund the full implementation of his flagship education reform effort, the K-to-12 program, next year.
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Erap Estrada gives PNoy admin a grade of 5.9 out of 10

Former President and incumbent Manila Mayor Joseph "Erap" Estrada on Monday gave the administration of President Benigno Aquino III a grade of 5.9 out of 10, even as it is alleged to be engaged in selective justice against its critics, including Senator Jinggoy Estrada. 
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NBI says Iglesia ni Cristo 'abduction' case closed

The National Bureau of Investigation on Monday said it has already "closed" its investigation on the alleged abduction of ministers of Iglesia ni Cristo.
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PNoy:Justice must be served against corruption

President Benigno Aquino III said Monday that the country will only be able to move on from corruption allegations against erring officials only after justice has been achieved.
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Anti-corruption efforts will be PNoy’s legacy –Poe

Senator Grace Poe were all praises for President Benigno Aquino III before the chief executive delivered his last state address on Monday.
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PNoy starts final SONA by enumerating alleged scams under Gloria Arroyo

President Benigno Aquino III on Monday started his sixth and final State of the Nation Address (SONA) by enumerating alleged scams under President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
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MILF chair wants to meet with senators on Bangsamoro Basic Law

Hopeful that the Bangsamoro Basic Law will be enacted under the Aquino administration, Moro Islamic Liberation Front chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal on Monday said he intends to meet with all the senators individually.
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Imelda Marcos: PNoy hasn't been nice to Marcoses

Former First Lady and now Ilocos Norte Rep. Imelda Marcos criticized President Benigno Aquino III on Monday for not being “nice” to their family during his term as she encouraged voters to be “smarter” in choosing the next president.
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PNoy arrives at Batasan for final SONA

President Benigno Aquino III arrived at the Batasan Complex in Quezon City on Monday afternoon for his sixth and final State of the Nation Address (SONA).
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Good governance advocates give PNoy 5.9 performance rating

A group pushing for good governance has given President Benigno Aquino III an overall score of 5.9 points out 10, for his performance in his fifth year in office.
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Grace Poe to PNoy: What do you want next admin to do?

President Benigno Aquino III should present in his last State of the Nation Address, what he wants the next administration to do after he bows out of office less than a year from now, administration ally and survey frontrunner Senator Grace Poe said on Monday.
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Chiz admits introducing Poe to FVR over the weekend

Senators Francis Escudero and Grace Poe met with former President Fidel Ramos over the weekend amid rumors of a possible Poe-Escudero tandem in 2016, but Escudero said politics was not discussed.
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PNoy effigies through his five years stay in Malacañang

No president since the time of strongman Ferdinand Marcos has been spared from the insolence of effigy-burning – militant groups' way of dramatizing their discontent. But President Benigno Aquino III probably got the earliest whip of this scornful public demonstration just a few months into his presidency in 2010, after he allowed to slash education budget by 1.7 percent for 2011.
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Ex-Pasugo editor slapped with libel complaint

Isaias Samson Jr., former editor of "Pasugo," the official publication of the Iglesia ni Cristo, is facing a libel complaint, following his expulsion from the church.
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Belmonte: Little time to Cha-Cha but pols still taking about amendments

Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. on Monday said that his last-minute pitch for economic Charter Change in the 16th Congress’ last regular session is aimed at sending a message to investors and politicians about its relevance even if lawmakers are already pressed for time to ensure its passage.
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Belmonte pushes for passage of 'Cha-cha,' BBL in House's final session

House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. made a renewed push for the passage of economic Charter Change and the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) Monday at the start of Congress’ third and final regular session, saying it will complement efforts to promote inclusive growth.
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Expert says 'conditional failure' rating for PNoy

President Benigno Aquino III received a rating of "conditional failure" for his five years in office, a political expert said Monday.
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Drilon urges colleagues: Set aside politics, resolve pressing problems

Noting that they are racing against time, Senate President Franklin Drilon on Monday rallied his colleagues to set aside political interests “and think of solutions to the nation’s pressing problems.”
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PNoy expected to tout gains vs. corruption, poverty in final SONA

President Benigno Aquino III is expected to tackle his accomplishments in fighting corruption and poverty when he faces Congress members on Monday afternoon for his sixth and final State of the Nation Address, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad said.
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11.2M families considered themselves poor in Q2 2015 – SWS

Some 11.2 million families or 51 percent of Filipino families considerd themselves poor, according to a 2015 second quarter poll taken by the Social Weather Stations.
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Controversies under PNoy: Loss of lives, misuse of public funds

Back in 2010, on his first day as the country’s top elected official, President Benigno Aquino III sang his favorite Filipino song, Freddie Aguilar’s “Estudyante Blues.” The 1980s hit goes, “Ako ang nakikita. Ako ang nasisisi. Ako ang laging may kasalanan.” The song-choice, as it turned out, was inspired as the lyrics rang true throughout Aquino’s almost five-year-old presidency.
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Brian Viloria disposes Mexican foe in one round

Former world flyweight and light flyweight champion Brian Viloria dispatched his Mexican opponent Omar Soto with ease in their non-title fight, Saturday (Sunday PHL time), at Florentine Gardens in Hollywood, California.
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PNoy unlikely to announce anointed successor at SONA, Congress allies say

President Benigno Aquino III might drop hints about the kind of leader he feels voters should elect in the 2016 presidential elections in his final State of the Nation Address Monday, but he will not publicly endorse any candidate yet, his allies in Congress said.
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Palestinians, Israeli police clash at Jerusalem's al-Aqsa

JERUSALEM - Masked rock-throwing Palestinians and Israeli police using stun grenades clashed on Sunday at al-Aqsa mosque plaza, on the annual Jewish day of mourning for Jerusalem's two destroyed Biblical temples.
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Aquino struggles with legacy as clout fades

President Benigno Aquino addresses parliament for the last time on Monday, racing to secure fragile legacies of peace in the war-torn south and a stronger economy.
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Trillanes to Abaya: Step up and prove you were right choice for DOTC head

Senator Antonio Trillanes IV challenged Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya Sunday to take his job seriously to prove his appointment to the Cabinet was not a mistake.
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Iglesia ni Cristo minister in California quits post

A minister of Iglesia ni Cristo has announced that he is quitting his position during a gathering of members in Fremont, California on Saturday morning.
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PNoy ‘one of best presidents’ despite stubbornness, House ally says

A Liberal Party stalwart on Sunday hailed President Benigno Aquino III, party chairman, as “one of the best presidents” the Philippines has ever had even as he admitted that Aquino can be “stubborn” and hard-headed” at times.
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LOOK: Group carrying placards gather in front of Manalo compund

A group of people gathered in front of the compound of the Manalo family in Quezon City on Sunday afternoon.
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Fishermen remove Chinese buoys near disputed shoal, officials say

MANILA – Filipino fishermen found several buoys with Chinese markings near the disputed Scarborough Shoal and towed the devices back to shore northwest of the capital, Manila, Philippines officials said on Sunday.
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Senators expect PNoy to highlight gains of 'Daang Matuwid' in last SONA

President Benigno Aquino III will have a string of accomplishments to highlight in his final State of the Nation Address because the country progressed by leaps and bounds under his term, his allies in Senate claimed Sunday.
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‘Abducted’ Iglesia ni Cristo minister freed by Dasmariñas police

One of the Iglesia ni Cristo ministers who reportedly had been abducted, turned out to be detained by the Dasmariñas Police for a week and was released on Sunday.
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Palace to voters: Don't waste chance to vote in 2016 polls

Malacañang on Sunday appealed to those who have not yet had their biometrics taken by the Commission on Elections to do so soonest, and not waste their chance to vote in the May 2016 elections.
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Palace asks metro residents: Take part in July 30 quake drill

Malacañang on Sunday appealed to residents of Metro Manila to take part in the metro-wide quake drill on Thursday, July 30.
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Another round of oil price cut possible this week

Motorists may expect another round of fuel price rollback this week, a report said Sunday.
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PDEA: CBCP pastoral statement vs. drugs a needed boost

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines' recent pastoral letter against illegal drugs is a much-needed boost for the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
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Iglesia ni Cristo members flock to PHL Arena for 101st anniversary

Members of the Iglesia ni Cristo on Sunday flocked to the Philippine Arena in Bulacan to mark the religious group's 101st anniversary.
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MILF hopes PNoy calls for Bangsamoro law passage in final SONA

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front hopes President Benigno Aquino III will push for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law during his final State of the Nation Address on Monday, its chairman said Saturday.
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Roxas: Up to PNoy to select Liberal Party's VP bet

Interior Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas said it will be ultimately up to President Benigno Aquino III to choose the ruling Liberal Party's vice presidential candidate for the upcoming 2016 national elections.
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Boy SISIg, fake rice ala politiko top militants' SONA menu

Instead of black Angus and wasabi burger, what about Boy SISIg, Wa-sabi SONA and fake rice ala politiko?
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Activists prepare MRT-themed effigy for PNoy's last SONA

A Metro Rail Transit 3-themed effigy will be paraded by militant groups during President Benigno Aquino III's last State of the Nation Address on Monday.
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CBCP's Villegas: Let's pray for Iglesia ni Cristo

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines has urged the public to pray for the Iglesia ni Cristo amid an ongoing power struggle that the influential religious sector is experiencing.
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Pinoy boxer Dennis Tubieron loses by first round KO in London

Palawan native Dennis Tubieron suffered his second consecutive defeat in foreign soil after getting hammered in the first round by Mitchell Smith, Saturday, at the Wembley Arena in London.
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Bradley's trainer wants a third fight with Pacquiao

Timothy Bradley's respected trainer Joel Diaz believes that a third fight with Manny Paccquiao would prove beneficial for both fighters.
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Viloria, Soto, make weight in Hollywood

Former world flyweight and light flyweight champion Brian Viloria and Omar Soto of Mexico both weighed-in under the super flyweight limit for their non-title bout on July 25 (July 26 PHL time) at the Florentine Gardens in Hollywood, California.
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Cops guarding Manalo compound around the clock

The elements of the Quezon City Police District continue to station its officers at the Manalo compound in Tandang Sora Avenue, Quezon City after it has become the center of a supposed power struggle within the Iglesia ni Cristo.
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Police on full alert in Metro Manila for SONA

The National Capital Region Police Office on Saturday assured that it is already well-prepared for the last State of the National Address of President Benigno Aquino III on coming Monday.
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Amid ‘fashion show’ talk, Palace says SONA should be the focus at Batasan on Monday

Amid early talk of the outfits some guests will wear on Monday's event  at the Batasang Pambansa, Malacañang reminded the public on Saturday that President Benigno Aquino III's final State of the Nation Address should be the focus of the occasion.
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Rep. Colmenares to wear barong bearing troubled MRT image at SONA

If you want to see an image of the troubles Metro Rail Transit passengers have to suffer everyday, just take a look at the barong Bayan Muna party-list Representative Neri Colmenares will be wearing during President Benigno Aquino III's final State of the Nation Address on Monday.
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Palace hoping more proactive LGUs to prevent food poisoning

Malacañang said Saturday it is hoping local government units will take a more active role in helping prevent food poisoning incidents.
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Floating booms with foreign character markings seen off Zambales

Orange floating booms with foreign character markings were seen off Zambales province Saturday morning.
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Palace admits facing challenges in 'Yolanda' reconstruction

The government still faces challenges in implementing the rehabilitation program for the survivors of Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), Malacañang admitted Saturday.
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Light trim for rough draft of climate pact

Senior diplomats charged with condensing an unwieldy draft for a global climate rescue pact, due to be inked in December, handed in their much-anticipated homework on Friday.
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Palace hoping SC can resolve cases vs. automated polls soonest

Malacañang on Saturday voiced hopes the Supreme Court can resolve soonest the cases challenging the automated elections for May 2016.
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Palace: Govt’s concern in Iglesia ni Cristo row limited to possible crime committed

The state's concern in the controversy involving the Iglesia ni Cristo is limited only to the possibility of a crime being committed, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said Saturday, even as she stressed that the religious group's reported practice of "bloc voting" during elections is not a factor in the ongoing investigation.
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Palace asks protesters: Keep rallies vs. PNoy’s last SONA peaceful, safe

Malacañang on Saturday appealed to groups planning protests for President Benigno Aquino III's final State of the Nation Address this Monday to keep their mass actions peaceful and safe.
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Campus journo group slams PNoy’s ‘incompetence’ two days before his last SONA

Two days before the his last State of the Nation Address, a group of campus journalists on Saturday lashed out on President Benigno Aquino III for his "incompetence."
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Life sentence for woman whose hired hit man shot the wrong guy

A South Carolina woman whose teenage lover shot and killed the woman's brother-in-law instead of her husband who was the intended target, will serve life in prison, and the teenager is expected to plead guilty, the prosecutor in the case said on Friday.
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Shakespeare reigns at France's Avignon theater festival

Shakespeare is still going strong after all these centuries, even in France, where an annual European theater festival just finished in the southern city of Avignon showcased several of the Bard's works.
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Former ‘Pasugo’ editor says INC general auditor involved in corruption

The former editor-in-chief of the Iglesia ni Cristo's official publication, “Pasugo”, on Friday alleged that the church's general auditor, Glicerio Santos Jr., was involved in corruption.
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All quiet, barely a peep at the Manalo compound

Everything was quiet at the Manalo residence, which is part of the Iglesia ni Cristo compound, on 36 Tandang Sora Avenue in Quezon City on Friday, with police units and news organizations stationed outside the residence responsible for what little commotion there was.
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Grace Poe, Chiz Escudero show up at FVR’s Makati office

Senators Grace Poe and Francis Escudero visited former President Fidel V. Ramos at his Makati City Office, a tweet by Escudero showed on Friday.
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No supporters gathered on Friday night but sent food to Ka Angel’s group

No supporters were outside the Manalo compound on Friday night despite expelled Iglesia ni Cristo minister Angel Manalo's call earlier in the day but supposed sympathizers sent food supplies for him and his companions inside the premises.
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Chris Brown leaves Manila despite $1-M estafa case

After a three-day delay, R n' B superstar Chris Brown finally managed to leave the country on Friday night, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines has announced.
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NGCP: Parts of Negros Occidental to have brownouts in morning, afternoon on Saturday

At least two hour-long power interruptions may affect parts of Negros Occidental on Saturday, the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines said on Friday.
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QC eye clinic denies PhilHealth’s accusation of fraud

An eye clinic accused of employing fraudulent scheme to milk PhilHealth of funds denied the allegation on Friday, saying it was not even informed of the complaint filed against them.
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LOOK: SC disowns car stickers used to avoid number-coding scheme

The Supreme Court on Friday disowned stickers of the High Tribunal's seal that some motorists use to escape being apprehended for violating Metro Manila's number-coding traffic reduction scheme.
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VP Binay's P200-M damage suit will backfire –Sen. Alan Cayetano

Senate Majority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano said on Friday Vice President Jejomar Binay's P200-million damage suit against him and eleven others will backfire on the former Makati mayor.
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Life, work go on for Iglesia ni Cristo amid controversy

The Iglesia Ni Cristo leadership and its members continue to do their work amid the supposed feud between its executive minister Eduardo Manalo and his family led by brother Angel who accused the advisers of his brother of corruption and doctrinal errors, the church’s spokesperson said Friday afternoon.
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Iglesia ni Cristo controversy puts Philippine Arena in limelight

The rift within the family that founded the century-old Iglesia ni Cristo has revealed controversies surrounding the use of church funds to build the largest indoor arena in the world.  
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Chris Brown cleared to leave PHL

After two days of being stuck in the Philippines, American R&B singer Chris Brown is finally free to leave the country after getting clearance from authorities.
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Luy admits some documents used as evidence in ‘pork’ case not authentic

Pork barrel scam whistleblower Benhur Luy on Friday admitted before the court that some documents in his external hard drive that were used as evidence in the case were not authentic copies of the original documents.
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PNoy to give qualities of preferred successor in last SONA – Abad

President Benigno Aquino III will give hints about his preferred successor during his last State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad said Friday.
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Drilon: Senate to tackle 4 bills when session resumes after SONA

The Senate will be working on at least four priority bills when session resumes following President Benigno Aquino III's final State of the Nation Address on Monday, Senate President Franklin Drilon said Friday.
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Ombudsman indicts Palparan, 8 others for kidnapping

Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales has ordered the filing of kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges against former military General Jovito Palparan Jr. and eight other individuals in connection with the alleged abduction of suspected communist members in 2006.
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Alan Cayetano: Mar Roxas’ camp asked if I could be his veep

Mutual friends have asked Senator Alan Peter Cayetano about the possibility of him running alongside the Liberal Party's presumptive standard-bearer Interior Secretary Mar Roxas in the 2016 elections, the Nacionalista Party stalwart told reporters on Friday. The ruling LP, which is chaired by President Benigno Aquino III, and the NP, which has five members in the Senate, are considered as two of the most influential political parties in the country.
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Cedric Lee posts bail for graft, malversation cases

Shortly after the Sandiganbayan Third Division ordered on Friday his arrest for graft and malversation cases, controversial businessman Cedric Lee has posted a P70,000-bail bond in exchange for his temporary liberty.
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NBI troops to Manalo residence as it begins ‘exploratory’ probe

Agents from the National Bureau of Investigation trooped to the Manalo residential compound in Quezon City on Friday afternoon as they begin their “exploratory” investigation on the alleged abduction of Iglesia Ni Cristo ministers.
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Sandiganbayan adds hearing dates amid allegations of delay in pork scam trial

Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang and another senior member of the anti-graft court on Friday decried the Ombudsman's allegation that the court was delaying the disposition of pork barrel scam cases. The Sandiganbayan Third Division that she chairs, however, appeared to address the perception of delayed proceedings as it set more hearings dates to hear the bail petition of alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim Napoles.
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Iglesia Ni Cristo spokesman: Angel Manalo ‘damaged himself’

As the Iglesia Ni Cristo marks the end of its centenary this weekend, its spokesperson said their focus is now on their closing ceremonies, begging off from further commenting on allegations made by Angel Manalo, brother of Eduardo, the church's current Executive Minister.
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DOJ to Chris Brown: Ask Immigration if you can fly out

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima on Friday indicated that it was possible for R n' B superstar Chris Brown to leave the country even with a $1-million estafa complaint filed against him. De Lima, however, said Brown's camp had yet to apply for an emigration clearance certificate (ECC) with the Bureau of Immigration which could pave the way for his exit from the Philippines.
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De Lima to Chris Brown: Secure clearance from Immigration bureau

Nearly three days after he was barred from leaving the country, American R&B singer Chris Brown has yet to secure from the Philippine government a clearance that would finally allow him to leave.
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Sandiganbayan orders arrest of Cedric Lee, ex-Mariveles mayor

The Sandiganbayan has ordered the arrest of businessman Cedric Lee and former Mariveles, Bataan mayor Angel Peliglorio, Jr. for graft and malversation charges in connection with alleged anomalous release of P23 million worth of public funds for a public market project.
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SC suspends work at Sandiganbayan on SONA Day

There will be no work at the Sandiganbayan on Monday next week, the day President Benigno Aquino III delivers his final State of the Nation Address at the nearby Batasan Pambansa Complex in Quezon CIty.
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NBI steps in, probes ‘abduction’ of Iglesia ni Cristo ministers

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima on Friday ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to look into the allegations that several ministers of the Iglesia ni Cristo religious group have been abducted.
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Koko Pimentel opposes planned voting in malls

Another lawmaker has voiced conerns on the Commission on Elections' plan to conduct voting in malls in next year's national elections.
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Quiet at stakeout in front of Manalo compound after family feud goes public

It seems like another busy morning along Tandang Sora Avenue in Quezon City, vehicles traversing both lanes as usual. Except that in front of 36 Tandang Sora, a big house with a beige and brown concrete fence, a crowd has gathered on standby, media and police officers awaiting. 
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CHR officers visit Manalo compound amid abduction reports

The controversies gripping the Iglesia ni Cristo have also caught the attention of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR).
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PNP can’t request for warrant to enter Manalo compound without homeowner’s statement —QCPD Pagdilao

The police cannot request a warrant from the courts to enter the Manalo compound in Quezon City because the homeowner himself did not report a crime.
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Former ‘Pasugo’ editor expelled from Iglesia Ni Cristo

(Updated 8:15 a.m.) Isaias Samson Jr., the former editor of the church's official publication "Pasugo," and his family were expelled from the Iglesia Ni Cristo on Friday.
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Angel Manalo calls for vigil, slams advisers of Iglesia ni Cristo executive minister

The brother of Iglesia ni Cristo executive minister Eduardo Manalo, Angel Manalo, called on members of the Iglesia to hold vigil outside their residential compound and join them in defending their church against what he claims are corruption and doctrinal errors by the advisers of his brother. 
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Former ‘Pasugo’ editor alleges corruption inside Iglesia ni Cristo

The former editor of the official publication of the Iglesia ni Cristo revealed some ways of how corruption allegedly thrives inside the church. 
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Chief Supt. Pagdilao: 'No abduction' situation in Manalo compound

Police Chief Superintendent Joel Pagdilao said he and his fellow police officers who went into the Manalo housing compound late Thursday evening did not find any indication of any "abduction" situation affecting the residents.
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Iglesia ni Cristo spokesman: We have no control over housing unit of Manalo kin

A spokesman of the Iglesia ni Cristo said late Thursday evening that they have "no control" over the residential area, where apparently estranged relatives of the church's Executive Minister Eduardo Manalo claim they are being held against their will.
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Lotto bettor wins P37.995-M jackpot

A lotto bettor is now nearly P38 million richer after winning the jackpot in the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office's Lotto 6/42 draw Thursday night.  
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Town mayors waiting for PNoy’s anointed successor

The leadership of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) has no categorical position on whether it will support the presumed presidential candidacy of Interior Secretary Mar Roxas in 2016, GMA News' "24 Oras" reported on Thursday.
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NBN-ZTE case: Prosecution wants to trim down number of witnesses vs. Gloria Arroyo

Government prosecutors want to trim down the number of witnesses to be presented against former President and incumbent Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in her graft case in connection with the alleged anomalous contract for a national broadband project.
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Roxas to cheat, buy votes in 2016, VP Binay claims

Vice President Jejomar Binay thinks the only way Interior Secretary Manuel "Mar" Roxas II can win a presidential election is to cheat and buy votes.
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PNP investigating alleged abduction of Iglesia ministers

The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) is validating reports that some of Iglesia ni Cristo's ministers have been abducted, PNP spokesperson Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor said, as he gave the assurance that the police force was "ready to respond" to the developing situation.
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Former 'Pasugo' editor alleges illegal detention by Iglesia ni Cristo leaders

A former editor of Iglesia ni Cristo's official publication is alleging that he was a victim of illegal detention.
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Catholic leaders to PNoy: Prosecute allies facing graft

Ranking officials of the Catholic Church urged President Benigno Aquino III Thursday to ensure the prosecution of government officials accused of corruption in the final year of his term regardless of their political affiliations.
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WATCH: Chris Brown breakdances, laughs at being stuck in Manila

American recording artist, dancer and actor Chris Brown breakdanced in his hotel room to make light of the fact that he was still in the Philippines amid a fraud complaint filed against him by the Iglesia ni Cristo.
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Allegedly abducted Iglesia minister nabbed by Dasmariñas PNP

One of the Iglesia ni Cristo ministers who was allegedly abducted by his fellow church members turned out to be detained by the PNP in Dasmariñas, Cavite. Lowel Menorca II is the subject of a complaint by two construction workers after he allegedly threatened them with a grenade.
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LP execs deny Belmonte ouster rumor

High ranking officials of the Liberal Party on Thursday denied any brewing attempt to unseat House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. next week as Congress begins its third and final session.
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Iglesia Ni Cristo denies hand in alleged abduction of ministers

The Iglesia Ni Cristo on Thursday denied that it has anything to do with the alleged abduction of some of its ministers. 
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Ka Angel, Ka Tenny’s supporters gather outside Manalo compound

Several supporters of expelled Iglesia ni Cristo leaders Angel Manalo and his mother Tenny have gathered outside the Manalo compound on Wednesday afternoon Tandang Sora Avenue in Quezon City. The group, made up of around ten persons, said they went to the site area to support for "Ka Angel" and "Ka Tenny" after they the mother and son appealed for help from INC members as they allegedly faced grave danger.
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LOOK: People inside Manalo house in Tandang Sora post message through window

People inside the Manalo house in Tandang Sora flashed messages through windows amid an ongoing schism between members of the family.  
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VP Binay: PNoy govt bribed politicians to get rid of political foes

Vice President Jejomar Binay on Thursday accused the Aquino administration of using public funds to bribe politicians to get rid of its political enemies.
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Catholic leaders to PNoy: Prosecute allies facing graft raps

Ranking officials of the Catholic Church urged President Benigno Aquino III Thursday to ensure the prosecution of government officials accused of corruption in the final year of his term regardless of their political affiliations.
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DOJ sets probe on $1-M estafa case vs. Chris Brown, promoter

The Department of Justice is set to conduct a preliminary investigation on the estafa charges against American R&B singer Chris Brown and his Philippine promoter for snubbing a New Year's event December at the Philippine Arena last year. Brown's promoter allegedly agreed to bring him into the country to perform at the Iglesia ni Cristo-owned venue last New Year's Eve for a cost of more than $1 million.
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Pinoy boxer Dennis Laurente to fight in Al Haymon's Premier Boxing Champions

OPBF junior middleweight champion Dennis Laurente is set to strut his wares at the big stage as he fights John Jackson on the undercard of Premier Boxing Champions on August 2 (August 3 PHL time) at Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida.
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AFP chief Iriberri gets fourth star

Newly installed Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Hernando Iriberri has been promoted to full general, two weeks after he took the helm of the 125,000-strong military organization.
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Facts and figures: the Iglesia ni Cristo in its 101st year

The Iglesia ni Cristo will be 101 years old on Monday. Various events are scheduled at the church-owned Philippine Arena in Bulacan to mark the day. But with a schism threatening the once-solid group, its members are waiting to see what happens next. 
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Arroyo lawyer to Sandiganbayan: Even PNoy’s dad was granted house arrest

Ferdinand Topacio, lawyer for the Arroyo family, on Thursday called on the justices of the Sandiganbayan First Division to speed up the resolution of the motion for house arrest of former president and incumbent Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
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P3-B One Dream scam lured 20,000 victims –Batangas vice gov

At least 20,000 people have been victimized by multi-level networking firm One Dream Global Marketing, Inc. in an alleged P3-billion investment scam, Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste said Thursday.
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WATCH: Iglesia Ni Cristo announces expulsion of Eduardo Manalo's mother, siblings

The Iglesia ni Cristo decided on Thursday to expel the mother siblings of its Executive Minister Eduardo Manalo from the group.
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PNoy ready to face consequences of his actions after presidency – Palace

President Benigno Aquino III is ready to face the consequences of all his actions during his presidency once he relinquishes his post and lose immunity from suit less than a year from now, Malacañang said Thursday.
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BI denies TMZ story, says Chris Brown still in PHL

The Bureau of Immigration on Thursday confirmed that American R&B singer Chris Brown is still in the Philippines, contrary to a report from celebrity news website TMZ that he was already "off the hook" and had "escaped" from the country.
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Amid family feud, Iglesia ni Cristo expels Eduardo Manalo’s mother, brother

The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) on Thursday expelled the mother and brother of its executive minister Eduardo Manalo for allegedly sowing disharmony among its members.
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Senators to discuss timeline of BBL approval —Drilon

The Senate leadership has scheduled a caucus on August 3 to discuss the chamber's timeline on the passage of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), Senate President Franklin Drilon said Thursday.
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Grace Poe thanks NP, NPC for support but yet to talk with parties

Senator Grace Poe on Thursday thanked leaders of the Nacionalista Party and the Nationalist People's Coalition who expressed support for her if she decides to run for President in 2016. But Poe said as of now, she has not talked to the leadership of the two parties about the upcoming elections.
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Patients’ alliance bats for more inclusive health system

An alliance of various patients' groups on Thursday called on Department of Health officials to make the country's health system more inclusive to better address their needs.
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PHL rejects China’s call for it to drop arbitration case

The Philippines on Thursday rejected a Chinese ambassador’s call for Manila to drop its arbitration case against Beijing aimed at settling the territorial row between the two countries over resource-rich parts of the South China Sea.
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Australia turns over 2 landing craft vessels to PHL

The Australian government on Thursday turned over two Landing Craft Heavy (LCH) vessels in a donation to the Philippines.
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Manalo clan's family feud becomes public as INC marks 101st year

Cracks in the unity of the Manalos, the clan behind the century-old Iglesia ni Cristo, became public Thursday, when a YouTube video began circulating on social media. 
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Erik Morales hits Mayweather anew: 'Nobody wants to see you fight Berto'

Retired four-division champion Erik Morales has voiced out the sentiment of the general public: nobody wants to see Floyd Mayweather fight Andre Berto.
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