BY ALEX ALAGON
MARKING one year since former President Rodrigo Duterte was brought to The Hague to face crimes against humanity charges, his defense team again reiterated the “betrayal” of the current administration.
In a message released on March 12, international lawyer Nicholas Kaufman, representing the former president, claimed that the incumbent administration has denied Duterte the opportunity to defend his legacy under Philippine law.
The statement did not specify the exact legal maneuvers or cases referred to, but focused heavily on the anniversary of the 2025 events.
Kaufman also took the opportunity to address the “many thousands” of supporters who have reached out via social media.
“We can assure everyone that the former President is made personally aware of every message received,” the statement read. “We can only beg forgiveness for not replying to each and every concerned person individually.”
Eyes on March 28
The defense team’s statement comes as the former president nears his 81st birthday on March 28, 2026. Kaufman urged the public to keep their expressions of support within the bounds of the law.
“Please channel your love and support for the former President lawfully and peacefully,” Kaufman said. “Let the former President’s 81st birthday be a day to remember.”
The statement marks a rare public update from the defense team, signaling a continued effort to maintain public engagement and solidify the former leader’s legacy amid ongoing legal and political challenges.
- Employers told to comply with new wage hike starting March 13
THE LABOR and employment agency told employers on Friday, March 13, to comply with the minimum wage adjustment as the first tranche of the increase for private sector workers in the Davao Region takes effect.
“Compliance with the prescribed minimum wage forms part of the regular labor inspection agenda of the Department of Labor and Employment XI (DOLE XI),” the agency said.
Labor inspectors will conduct routine inspections to ensure employers’ compliance.
Payment of minimum wage has consistently been among the top areas of non-compliance in recent years, the agency stressed, citing previous inspection records.
Along with private sector workers, the new minimum wage rate for domestic workers of P6,500 across the region also takes effect.
Wage Order No. RB XI-24, approved by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board XI (RTWPB XI) on February 25, grants a P30 increase for the non-agriculture sector workers and a P20 increase for the agriculture sector workers to be implemented in two tranches: March 13 and September 1.
“With the first tranche taking effect today, the daily minimum wage in the agriculture sector increases from Php505.00 to Php510.00. Meanwhile, the non-agriculture sector minimum wage rises from Php510.00 to Php525.00,” DOLE told employers.
On the other hand, Wage Order No. RB XI-DW-04 provides an increase in the monthly minimum wage of domestic workers from the previous minimum wage rates of P6,000.00 and P5,000 in chartered cities and first-class municipalities, and other municipalities, respectively.
The wage order mandates a P500 and P1,500 increase for chartered cities and first-class municipalities, and other municipalities, respectively, bringing a uniform monthly minimum wage of P6,500.00 across the region.
“Employers are encouraged to comply with the mandated wage adjustments as a concrete expression of respect for workers’ rights and recognition of their valuable contributions to the enterprise,” Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy, DOLE XI regional director and RTWPB XI chairperson, said.
“Observing fair labor standards not only promotes the welfare of workers but also helps maintain industrial peace and productivity in the workplace,” Pensoy stressed.
DOLE, however, reminded that retail and service establishments regularly employing not more than ten workers, as well as enterprises affected by natural calamities and/or human-induced disasters, can apply for exemption from the wage increase until May 11, 2026, at the RTWPB XI.
Meanwhile, the Barangay Micro Business Enterprises (BMBEs) with valid Certificates of Authority issued by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) are not covered by the minimum wage law under Republic Act No. 9178.
THE PHILIPPINE Army attempted to quell public anxiety following social media rumors linking the arrival of US troops in the city to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Major General Michele Anayron Jr., commander of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), clarified in a phone interview with Brigada News FM CDO that the presence of US forces at the former Lumbia Airport is strictly for the upcoming Balikatan Exercises.
An advance party of American personnel recently arrived for a final coordinating conference to finalize training scenarios.
The clarification comes after a wave of social media posts suggested that the troop movements were related to international conflicts, sparking concern among residents.
“These are regular joint military exercises between the Philippines and the United States,” Anayron Jr. stated, emphasizing that the activities have no connection to global tensions outside the country.
Call for vigilance against misinformation
Anayron urged the public to remain calm and stop the spread of “out-of-this-world imaginations” and unverified reports that cause unnecessary panic.
“Let us be united in our desire to defend our territory,” the commander said in a statement. “I am asking our brothers and sisters to avoid spreading misinformation. We should be one in protecting our sovereignty, rather than creating difficulties for our fellow Filipinos.”
The military leadership reminded the public to verify any information regarding troop movements through official government and military channels before sharing it online.
The Balikatan (Shoulder-to-Shoulder) exercises are a long-standing bilateral agreement aimed at strengthening disaster response and territorial defense capabilities between the two allied nations.
THE DEPARTMENT of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Davao has filed a complaint against an inland resort located within the Mt. Apo Natural Park in Barangay Coronon, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.
DENR XI emphasized that Mt. Apo Natural Park is a protected heritage that must be preserved.
“Through due process, the agency assures that violators will be held accountable and that environmental justice will be served,” it said.
DENR XI stressed the resort violated Republic Act No. 11038, otherwise known as the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (Expanded NIPAS) Act of 2018.
The complaint was filed before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Digos City, Davao del Sur.
The complaint cited violations of Section 18(o), which prohibits the construction, erection, or maintenance of any structure within a protected area without clearance from the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) and a permit from the DENR.
DENR XI added that the resort also allegedly violated Section 18(v) by constructing permanent structures within the 40-meter easement from the high-water mark of the Langan River.
“DENR Region XI, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of Davao del Sur, and the Mt. Apo Natural Park–Protected Area Management Office (MANP-PAMO) are working closely with the Regional and Provincial State Prosecutors to strengthen cases against violators,” the agency said.
Six more resorts in the same area are bound to face similar complaints, according to the agency.
The agency said the filing of charges was due to the continued non-compliance of resort operators, who have allegedly ignored notices of violation and cease and desist orders issued by the agency since 2024.
Despite these directives, the operators failed to voluntarily dismantle their illegal structures.
Photo: DENR XI
THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) and the City Social Welfare and Development Office delivered meals to 86 families affected by the demolition in Purok Sta. Lucia, Barangay Centro, Agdao District, on Thursday, March 12.
Acting DCPO chief Col Mannan Muarip went to the area to inspect the security provided by law enforcers to prevent violence from erupting.
Recognizing the stress the demolition placed on the community’s youngest members, Muarip and his team distributed fast-food meals specifically to the children on site.
“Our role goes beyond maintaining peace and order; it is about standing with the community during their most difficult moments,” Muarip said.
Each family received a pack containing seven kilos of rice and seven canned goods to provide immediate relief during the transition.
He emphasized that the DCPO’s presence was intended to offer both security and empathy, reflecting a leadership style rooted in service and unity.
The operation concluded without incident, as the DCPO reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the law while maintaining a “human first” approach to community relations.
THE SENATE committee on urban planning, housing and resettlement, chaired by Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, on Tuesday (March 10) tackled all 35 bills and resolutions on its agenda, reinforcing his “no backlog” policy in the committees he leads.
Among those approved for committee report was Senate Bill No. 934, authored by Senator Jinggoy Estrada, which strengthens the government’s authority to expropriate land for socialized housing.
“The measure amends Sections 9, 10, and 11 of the Urban Development and Housing Act (UDHA) of 1992 to empower local government units and housing agencies to identify priority areas, streamline land acquisition, and allow expropriation of idle lands, including residential lands under litigation,” Escudero said, noting that the bill supports the administration’s Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program.
Also approved was SB 70, authored by Senator Rodante Marcoleta, exempting the underprivileged and homeless from the required payment of supersedeas bond to perfect an appeal in ejectment cases. This measure strengthens protections for vulnerable families facing eviction.
The committee likewise passed SB 1863, authored by Senator Bam Aquino, which institutes a loan restructuring and condonation program for socialized and low‑cost housing. This aims to ease the financial burden of housing beneficiaries and improve repayment sustainability.
In addition, measures amending the Condominium Act were cleared: AMENDING RA 4726 (CONDOMINIUM ACT): SB 235 (Escudero), SB 922 (Estrada), SB 1442 (Senator JV Ejercito), and House Bill No. 2286 (Representatives Victoria Co‑Pilar, Leila De Lima, et al.)
These proposals modernize rules on the dissolution and redevelopment of condominium projects, ensuring safer and more responsive housing options for urban dwellers.
During the hearing, Escudero ordered the consolidation of similar bills, while several others were referred to new subcommittees for more focused deliberation.
Among these is Senate Resolution No. 254, filed by Senator Bam Aquino, which calls for an inquiry into the implementation, challenges, and gaps in the government’s housing and resettlement programs. The committee also reviewed the recalibrated housing targets under the Marcos administration.
Instead of the earlier goal of one million units annually, the updated target is 1.13 million units for the entire term of the President until 2028.
According to the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), the current backlog stands at 2.2 million units, with only 477,000 units delivered to date.
Escudero pressed DHSUD officials on the recalibrated numbers, recalling that former DHSUD Secretary Jose Acuzar had cited a 6.5‑million housing need.
“My problem with recalibrating numbers is that you are just making the books look good… Let us not fool ourselves that our backlog is that small just so that we can say that we accomplished something during our term,” he said, underscoring the need for transparency and consistency in defining the country’s housing deficit.
The Bicolano lawmaker thanked fellow senators, government agencies, and private‑sector representatives for their participation, emphasizing that sustained coordination and accurate data are essential to crafting effective housing policy.
He said the committee’s action on all pending measures reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that every Filipino has access to safe, affordable, and dignified housing.
THE SAN Pedro Police Station apprehended a suspected thief on Wednesday, March 11, following a swift operation by the San Pedro Police Station (PS2).
The operation, led by station commander Maj Emmanuel Manlatican under the direction of acting city director PCOL Mannan Muarip, targeted a suspect accused of stealing wallets, ID cards, and cash from a vehicle parked along Quezon Boulevard in Barangay 37-D.
Police identified the suspect through a combination of CCTV footage and a tip from a vigilant citizen. Operatives recovered the stolen items during the arrest.
Muarip commended both the responding officers and the community for their cooperation.
“This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of the police-community partnership,” Muarip said. “The DCPO remains steadfast in its commitment to protect the people of Davao City and uphold the rule of law.”
The suspect is currently in police custody, facing a theft charge.
AS DIGITAL platforms continue to shape how stories are shared, Filipino audiences are becoming increasingly selective about the voices they follow and engage with online.
Insights from Meltwater’s Digital 2026 report show that the Philippines remains one of the most socially connected countries globally, with users spending between 30 minutes and more than an hour daily on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. In this crowded digital landscape, audiences are drawn less to viral moments and more to creators whose stories feel authentic, values-driven, and relatable.
This Women’s Month, Mang Inasal celebrates Filipina creators who embody these qualities—women redefining the content creation space while proudly sharing Filipino food culture with audiences across the country.
Among them are creators Khem Gomez, Chef Beng Velarde, and Heidie Mamauag, whose journeys reflect resilience, authenticity, and a deep love for Filipino cuisine.
“Mang Inasal has always been about celebrating what makes us proudly Filipino,” said Mang Inasal president Mike V. Castro. “This Women’s Month, we are proud to highlight Filipina creators who are using their platforms to inspire communities while showcasing the richness of Filipino food culture.”
Taking the first step
For many creators, the most difficult part of the journey is simply getting started. Gomez recalls how hesitation once held her back from pursuing content creation.
“I’ve always wanted to create content since I was young,” she said. “But actually, starting can feel daunting. Still, it’s scarier to look back at the ‘could-have-beens.’”
Today, Gomez shares creative food-related content, including miniature cooking videos that bring Filipino dishes to life in playful and imaginative ways. For her, Filipino cuisine represents something deeper than content—it reflects identity and pride.
“Filipino food will always be home,” she said. “The ingredients, the cooking methods, and the stories behind every dish make you proud to share it with the world.”
Meanwhile, Velarde began her content creation journey during the pandemic while managing professional commitments and other responsibilities. Balancing these priorities requires careful planning.
“Creating content wasn’t my only focus,” she said. “But those early challenges helped me become more organized and intentional.”
By planning posts ahead and creating content in batches during weekends, she found a rhythm that allowed her to balance productivity with personal time. “Balance isn’t perfect—it’s intentional,” she added.
Staying authentic in a fast-moving digital world
The digital content landscape moves quickly, with creators constantly navigating trends, algorithms, and audience expectations. For Gomez, authenticity has been essential to staying grounded.
“Social media can sometimes make you more calculated than authentic,” she said. “But when you understand yourself and enjoy what you’re creating, the pressure becomes easier to manage.”
Velarde takes a similar approach, choosing to stay aligned with her values rather than chasing every trend.
“Algorithms change constantly,” she said. “But I focus on creating content that reflects my brand and purpose instead of trying to keep up with everything.”
For Mamauag, whose content centers on simple living and home cooking, purpose matters more than popularity.
“Don’t let likes or views define you,” she said. “Just keep sharing your stories—you never know who might need to hear them.” Messages from followers who find inspiration in her posts continue to motivate her to keep creating.
Celebrating Filipino food and culture online
For these creators, food is not just content but also storytelling.
Velarde sees Filipino cuisine as a powerful way to connect people with culture and heritage. “Every dish carries family memories and regional traditions,” she said. “When we share Filipino food, we’re also sharing stories of who we are.”
Mamauag’s love for cooking was shaped by her childhood in the province, where many meals were prepared using ingredients from their backyard. “Growing up, our food was simple,” she shared. “But those meals were special because they were made with love.”
Today, she encourages families to appreciate everyday meals and the meaningful moments shared around the table.
A shared love for Mang Inasal
For these creators, Mang Inasal represents the same spirit of Filipino warmth and togetherness they share through their content.
Gomez describes dining at Mang Inasal as a uniquely Filipino experience. “It truly represents what being Pinoy is,” she said. “From the food to the atmosphere, it makes you proud of your culture.”
Velarde agrees, noting how the brand’s signature dishes evoke comfort and nostalgia, “Their Chicken Inasal reminds people of home and family,” she said.
For Mamauag, Mang Inasal also symbolizes moments of togetherness with loved ones. “When Mang Inasal is our meal, my kids already know what that means,” she shared with a smile. “We eat with our hands, enjoy the food, and spend time talking together.”
As more women find their voices in the digital space, their stories continue to reshape how Filipino culture is shared online. This Women’s Month, Mang Inasal celebrates these Filipina creators who inspire communities while proudly sharing the flavors and stories of Filipino food with the world.
ARAW NG Davao is Davao City’s biggest annual celebration, an all-out festival month that turns the city into a moving showcase of culture, community, and hometown pride. It’s when streets come alive with parades, drumbeats, dance performances, pop-up bazaars, concerts, and food finds, and every corner feels like an invitation to join in. Whether you’re coming for the pageantry, the people, or the sheer energy of a city celebrating itself, Araw ng Davao is the kind of celebration that makes a quick flight to Mindanao feel more like a must-do trip than a maybe.
As Araw ng Davao fills the city with parades, performances, and community gatherings, Discovery Samal invites locals and visitors to keep the celebration going by the sea. Minutes away by boat, the resort offers seasonal room packages, festive dining, and easygoing activities that let you stretch the city’s high-energy festivities into a refreshing coastal break.
Island stays with easy summer comforts
For those looking to turn the celebration into a quick getaway, Discovery Samal is offering its Happy Summer Room Package, a simple way to extend the holiday into a laid-back island break. Designed for easy unwinding, the package pairs comfortable accommodations with resort perks that let guests slip into Samal’s slower pace.
Starting at P17,500 per night, the package includes daily breakfast for two at Morning Catch, plus added savings across the resort. Guests enjoy 15% off at food and beverage outlets, 10% off spa treatments and watersports activities, and seasonal inclusions such as a complimentary one-hour crystal kayak or paddle board session and a relaxing foot massage for two. The offer is available for booking until May 31, 2026, with stays from March 1 to June 15, 2026—ideal for travelers looking to cap off the city festivities with a short Samal retreat.
Seafood feasts with Davao flavors and coastal flair
Discovery Samal is also offering a themed lunch buffet at Morning Catch, serving up ocean-fresh seafood prepared with local flavors and a distinct sense of Davao pride. Inspired by the energy of coastal markets and regional culinary traditions, the spread is guided by the day’s catch from local fishermen, vibrant produce, and time-tested cooking techniques—moving from beloved seafood classics to bold, creative takes on coastal specialties. Every plate celebrates the character of the surrounding waters, capturing the richness and unmistakable taste of Davao’s culinary heritage.
The buffet is served from 11 am to 3 pm every weekend in March, priced at P2,600 net per person. The rate includes round-trip boat transfers from the Davao Welcome Center, making it easy for guests to travel seamlessly from the city to Samal Island for the dining experience.
Seaside moments with sun, sea, and slow island time
A visit to Discovery Samal during Araw ng Davao opens the door to a range of leisurely pursuits shaped by the island’s natural setting. Guests may begin the day with a quiet walk along the shore or spend the afternoon swimming in the pool while looking out over the gulf. Others may choose to relax by the beach, paddle across the calm waters, or settle into a shaded corner of the resort with the sound of the waves nearby. Time on the island tends to unfold at a gentler pace. The bustle of the city fades into the background, replaced by wide horizons and open sea air.
A city celebration that flows into island calm
Araw ng Davao honors the heritage and resilience of the city. Discovery Samal offers a fitting continuation of that celebration, inviting guests to cross the water and experience a different side of the region’s charm.From festive dining to seaside relaxation, the resort presents a simple invitation to celebrate the city first, then escape to the island where the spirit of the occasion lingers a little longer. For inquiries and reservations, email reservations@discoverysamal.com or call +63 84 308 2998.
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