In a sweeping move to address police misconduct, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has relieved all 31 personnel of the District Special Operations Unit (DSOU) under the Eastern Police District (EPD) following a controversial operation that resulted in the alleged illegal arrest and robbery of two Chinese nationals. NCRPO Chief Police Major General Anthony Aberin announced the mass relief after eight DSOU officers were accused of forcibly taking nearly P85 million worth of cash and valuables from the victims during a raid on April 2 in Portofino Heights, Barangay Almanza Dos, Las Piñas City. Among those removed from their posts were senior DSOU officials, citing command responsibility as grounds for their dismissal. "We will not tolerate abuse of power within our ranks," said Aberin, adding that further investigation is underway to determine whether other individuals were involved in the scheme, which included the illegal arrest of Chinese nationals identified as "Jie Li" and "Wang Feng Tao." Ordeal Caught in Silence The victims’ relatives, who spoke to the media, said eight plainclothes officers arrived at their residence around 1:00 p.m. and served an arrest warrant for illegal possession of firearms. However, the warrant allegedly bore a different name, raising suspicion from the family, who claimed their objections were ignored. The officers then disabled all CCTV cameras in the home before escorting one of the Chinese nationals to the second floor and ordering him to open a personal safety vault . According to the family, the suspects looted several valuable items, including four luxury watches, a 600-gram gold bar , and other high-end belongings, placing them in their own luggage bags. They also allegedly took P12 million in cash before detaining the victim at a nearby precinct. No Charges Filed The following day, the victim was transferred to the Las Piñas City Police Station , where personnel expressed surprise over the lack of coordination from the EPD-DSOU. With no formal charges filed , the victim was released shortly after. The family of the victim, who have been residing in the Philippines for the past four years, said they operate a restaurant business and have never had any involvement in criminal activity. Officers Under Custody The eight officers involved—identified as four staff sergeants, two corporals, and two patrolmen—have been placed under restrictive custody . They were also stripped of their service firearms, IDs, and badges , as the NCRPO prepares multiple criminal and administrative charges against them. "This is a serious breach of public trust," said Aberin. “We are committed to holding those responsible fully accountable.” The incident has once again raised concerns over police abuse and corruption , prompting calls for greater transparency and stricter internal accountability within the Philippine National Police.

After skyrocketing in popularity with a 10,000-person waitlist, Kora , the Filipino doughnut pop-up, has finally opened its much-anticipated permanent bakery in Sunnyside, Queens. Located at 45-12 Greenpoint Avenue , the new bakery opened its doors on Saturday, March 29 , marking a major milestone for founders Kimberly Camara and Kevin Borja , who turned their passion for Filipino flavors into a thriving business. The duo, both former employees at renowned restaurants Eleven Madison Park and Union Square Hospitality , launched Kora in March 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. After being laid off, they started baking from their home in Woodside , Queens, initially operating the business online with orders taken via a Google form on Instagram. Their unique sari-sari box — featuring a mix of five doughnuts with inventive Filipino-inspired flavors — quickly went viral, often selling out in minutes. Signature offerings like the halo-halo doughnut filled with coconut cream, jackfruit, banana chips, leche flan, and tapioca pearls captured the hearts of food lovers across the city. As demand grew, Kora outgrew the couple's home kitchen and began operating from commissary kitchens and partnering with Sunnyside’s Alewife Brewery for pick-up locations. A successful Kickstarter campaign gave the couple the financial boost needed to pursue their dream of opening a storefront, and now, Kora has a permanent home in Sunnyside, one of New York’s most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. At the grand opening, a line of eager customers had already formed by 9 a.m. , signaling the excitement surrounding the bakery's debut. This is especially noteworthy in Queens, where bakery hype has been rare since the opening of Somedays in 2023. While the borough already boasts Filipino bakeries like Red Ribbon and will soon welcome Valerio’s Tropical Bakeshop , Kora stands out as a key player in the new wave of modern Filipino bakeries. Kora’s new storefront offers a wider array of delicious options that go beyond doughnuts. Classic items, such as the beloved doughnuts filled with ube custard and topped with leche flan, are still on the menu. However, the bakery has expanded to include savory offerings, such as a pain suisse filled with Spam, pimento cheese, hot honey, and chile crisp, as well as a Filipino-inspired croissant that riffs on ensaymada with a sugared butter coating and a blanket of yellow Edam cheese. Other menu items include crullers (sugared, cinnamon, and coffee), kouign-amann, chocolate croissants, and brioche buns filled with passionfruit curd. In a playful twist on the classic babka, Kora’s version features an ube swirl. Prices for the treats range from $4.25 to $8.75 , with a limit on orders during the opening due to high demand — the store reduced the limit from six items per person to three. As the business grows, Camara and Borja envision Kora transforming into an all-day café. “We’re hoping to add sandwiches and savory danishes soon,” says Camara, who hints at a future tortang talong sandwich. “Right now, we’re working with electric equipment since we’re not using gas yet.” In addition to their pastries, the bakery offers a simple yet delicious coffee program, featuring beans sourced from Parlor Coffee and specialty lattes in flavors like salted coconut, ube, and pandan-and-matcha. After a complete renovation of the former frozen yogurt shop, Kora’s new space is airy and welcoming, with a large glass wall in the back that allows customers to watch the bakers in action. A row of workbenches dubbed the “stage” by Camara offers a front-row seat to the finishing touches on each pastry. The interior design features dark brown seating and accents of capiz shell, a traditional Filipino material often used in home décor. Unlike some bakeries that cater primarily to take-out orders, Kora’s space invites customers to stay and enjoy their treats. The cozy seating area, with about 20 seats , offers a place to linger, chat, and enjoy freshly baked goods in the heart of Sunnyside. The new bakery also holds sentimental value for the founders, as it’s located near the former home of Alpha Donuts , a much-loved doughnut shop that served Sunnyside for over 50 years before closing in 2023. Though Kora’s modern design contrasts with Alpha Donuts’ nostalgic charm, Borja and Camara are committed to maintaining a strong connection with the community. “Sunnyside is so tight-knit,” says Camara. “That’s what we really liked about the neighborhood.” Kora will initially be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. while the team gets settled in. Eventually, they hope to expand their hours and offer even more options for their growing customer base.

Toronto Police Service Photo Toronto Police are on the lookout for a Filipina woman accused of scamming 28 individuals out of more than $54,000 in rent payments for non-existent apartment units. The suspect, identified as Laighnalee Asuncion, a 50-year-old resident of Toronto, is wanted for allegedly taking payments from prospective tenants who were seeking to rent units in an apartment building where she was employed. However, the units Asuncion offered were never available for rent. Investigations suggest that Asuncion collected a total of 54,000 Canadian dollars, which is equivalent to over 2 million pesos, from the 28 victims. These individuals were led to believe they had secured rental agreements for the apartments, only to discover later that the units did not exist or were already occupied. Further details from the investigation indicate that Asuncion resigned from her position at the building just before the victims were scheduled to move in. This left many of the victims without any recourse to retrieve their payments or gain access to the promised apartments. In response to the growing concern, the Toronto Police Service has released Asuncion’s photograph in an effort to track her down. Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that might assist in locating her. The Toronto Police Service’s 31 Division Fraud Unit has taken over the investigation and is asking anyone with knowledge of Asuncion's whereabouts to immediately contact the unit. Authorities have warned that, due to the nature of the scam, other victims may still be unaware that they were deceived and may come forward with additional information. Anyone with tips on Asuncion’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Fraud Unit at the Toronto Police Service or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

The United States' newly implemented reciprocal tariff policy is expected to have significant implications for Philippine trade. If the tariffs proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump take effect, the Philippines, as a trading partner, may respond with additional taxes on U.S. imports. This could lead to higher costs for goods and services exchanged between the two nations. Like many other countries, the Philippines may experience disruptions in its trade sector, particularly in industries reliant on exports to the U.S. The policy could strain existing trade relationships and increase production costs for Philippine exporters. Under the new tariff structure, U.S. importers of Philippine goods may face duties as high as 17%. Additionally, the White House’s tariff calculations consider "nonmonetary" trade barriers, such as currency manipulation and environmental regulations, which could further impact global trade dynamics. Reciprocal Tariff Policy and Economic Concerns The U.S. government has positioned this policy as a tool to rebalance global trade by imposing additional ad valorem duties on imports from trading partners. The goal is to address trade imbalances and ensure fair competition for American businesses. In an Executive Order, President Trump cited economic threats posed by trade disparities, declaring a national emergency due to the persistent U.S. goods trade deficit: "The United States of America finds that underlying conditions, including a lack of reciprocity in our bilateral trade relationships, disparate tariff rates, and non-tariff barriers, constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat to national security and the economy." The policy has raised concerns among economists and trade experts, who warn that heightened tariffs could trigger retaliatory measures from affected countries, potentially escalating trade tensions. These tariffs are set to take effect on April 5, 2025 , with higher reciprocal rates beginning on April 9, 2025 . The administration argues that these measures will reduce the trade deficit, boost domestic manufacturing, and increase federal revenue. Certain sectors, including pharmaceuticals and semiconductors , will be exempt from these tariffs.

The Philippine Embassy in Doha confirmed on Friday, March 28, that several Filipinos in Qatar were arrested and detained for allegedly taking part in unauthorized political gatherings. In a statement, the embassy said it is coordinating with local authorities to extend consular assistance to the detainees. However, it remains unclear whether the demonstrations were linked to the 80th birthday of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who is currently detained in The Hague, Netherlands, facing crimes against humanity charges before the International Criminal Court. Duterte’s milestone birthday sparked protests both in the Philippines and abroad, with supporters advocating for his release while critics demanded justice for alleged human rights violations under his administration. In Manila, hundreds assembled at Luneta Park, holding banners that read “Free Duterte” and “Justice for Victims,” while counter-protesters carried placards condemning his controversial war on drugs. Similar demonstrations unfolded in major cities worldwide, including Hong Kong, Los Angeles, and Dubai, reflecting the stark divisions within the Filipino community regarding Duterte’s legacy. While his supporters organized prayer vigils and motorcades, opposition groups staged candlelit protests, stressing the importance of accountability in the ongoing ICC proceedings. Following the arrests in Qatar, the Philippine Embassy reminded Filipinos in the country to adhere to local laws and regulations concerning public demonstrations and political expression.

In a remarkable affirmation of dedication, resilience, and faith, Reverend Monsignor Jonas Achacoso, a distinguished Filipino-American priest, has made history by being appointed to the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura, the highest judicial authority in the Catholic Church. This momentous decision is not only a personal triumph for Monsignor Achacoso but also a significant milestone for the Filipino clergy and the global Filipino community. A Journey Rooted in Service Monsignor Achacoso’s journey began in the vibrant city of Zamboanga, Philippines, where he was born into a loving family. Raised by a teacher and a Coca-Cola employee, he learned early on the values of hard work, dedication, and service to others. These values have guided him throughout his life and ministry, shaping his commitment to the Church and its mission. Prior to his appointment, he served as the parish priest of Corpus Christi Church in Woodside, New York City, where Monsignor Achacoso touched the lives of many in his diverse congregation. His pastoral approach, characterized by compassion and empathy, resonated deeply with those he served. Under his leadership, the church became a beacon of hope and unity in the community, welcoming individuals from all walks of life. A Symbol of Filipino Excellence Monsignor Achacoso's appointment to the Apostolic Signatura is a testament to the growing influence of the Filipino diaspora within the Catholic Church. His selection not only highlights his exemplary leadership and expertise in canon law but also signifies broader recognition of the invaluable contributions made by Filipinos in ecclesiastical roles worldwide. It serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring clergy, particularly those from marginalized communities, proving that with hard work and determination, they too can rise to positions of influence. As he begins his five-year tenure, Monsignor Achacoso reflects on the significance of his new role. “It's a great honor to be a Filipino American assigned to the Apostolic Signatura. I may hold an American passport, but every inch of me is Filipino. I’m proud to represent our country in the highest court of the Catholic Church,” he remarked, expressing his deep connection to his heritage. A Commitment to Justice and Fairness Monsignor Achacoso's dedication to justice is evident in his scholarly work, particularly his publication of  "Due Process in Administrative Justice,"  which was recognized by the Vatican in 2018. This significant contribution delves into the complexities of administrative justice within the Church, reflecting his unwavering commitment to fairness and accountability. Through this work, he has provided a roadmap for the Church to navigate the challenges of governance, ensuring that justice is upheld for all. His multifaceted roles within the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens, including serving as the Adjutant Judicial Vicar and the Diocesan Liaison to Ecclesial Movements, further showcase his dedication to the Church’s mission. Monsignor Achacoso has earned the respect and admiration of his peers, serving as a role model for clergy members everywhere. Inspiring Future Generations As Monsignor Achacoso embarks on this historic chapter of service in the Vatican's highest court, his story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for Filipinos and Catholics worldwide. He embodies the spirit of resilience, demonstrating that individuals can break barriers and achieve greatness through hard work and a steadfast commitment to their faith. In a world that often feels divided, Monsignor Achacoso’s journey reminds us of the power of diversity and inclusivity within the Church. His presence in such a prominent position not only enriches the Church's leadership but also emphasizes the importance of embracing varied perspectives in addressing global challenges. As he takes on this pivotal role, Monsignor Achacoso calls upon the faithful to join him in prayer for enlightenment, wisdom, and strength. His journey is not just about personal achievement; it is about uplifting the entire Filipino community and reminding us all that greatness can be achieved, no matter where life's path leads. In celebrating Monsignor Jonas Achacoso's appointment, we honor the countless individuals who have paved the way for Filipino clergy in the global arena. His story is a powerful reminder that our heritage can inspire us to strive for excellence and make meaningful contributions to our communities and the world.

The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, led by Senator Imee Marcos, has found “glaring violations” of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s rights in his March 11 arrest over crimes against humanity charges before the International Criminal Court (ICC). In a preliminary report released March 27, the panel noted that Duterte’s right to liberty and due process was disregarded, as no warrant was issued by either the ICC or a Philippine court. Instead, the Philippine government acted on an unverified Diffusion Notice from the ICC, which lacked approval from Interpol. “There was no verification by Interpol to ensure compliance with Article 3 of its Constitution, which prohibits politically motivated actions. Moreover, the Philippines was not obligated to surrender Duterte without an extradition or surrender request,” the panel stated. Despite no binding legal requirement, Philippine authorities took proactive steps to assist the ICC. The Philippine National Police (PNP) mobilized units on March 10, a day before the Diffusion Notice was issued. National Security Adviser Eduardo Año reportedly tracked Duterte’s camp before the arrest, with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also involved. The panel also criticized the administration’s cooperation with the ICC despite the absence of a formal Red Notice. It dismissed Interior Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla Jr.’s claim that the operation was based on rumors, calling it “incredible” given the government’s prior preparations. Duterte was denied access to his chosen legal counsel, Vice President Sara Duterte, and was instead assigned lawyers without his consent. His family was reportedly barred from visiting him at Villamor Airbase before his transfer to The Hague. While DOJ officials initially cited Article 59 of the Rome Statute, which mandates prompt judicial review of an arrest, Duterte was removed from the country before the Supreme Court could rule on his petition for a temporary restraining order (TRO). The panel also criticized the DOJ for shifting its legal justifications, raising concerns over due process violations in Duterte’s arrest.

The Philippine Consulate in San Francisco is prepared to provide financial and legal aid to Lewelyn Dixon, a 64-year-old Filipina detained at the Northwest ICE Detention Center after her arrest at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on February 28. Dixon, a green card holder for five decades, faces deportation due to a 2001 bank embezzlement conviction, despite fully repaying the amount in 2019. Immigration lawyers warn that even old convictions can lead to removal, urging green card holders with past offenses to seek legal advice before traveling. Dixon's removal proceedings are set for July.

At the 69th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), the Philippine Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reaffirmed their commitment to advancing gender equality and social protection. CHR Commissioner Faydah Dumarpa emphasized the vital role of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in ensuring gender accountability. As the Philippines’ Gender Ombud, she highlighted CHR’s efforts in advocating for policies that combat gender-based violence and promote women’s participation in governance. DSWD Undersecretary Emmeline A. Villar presented the country’s National Action Plan to End Violence Against Women (2025-2030) and underscored the 4Ps conditional cash transfer program as a key initiative in alleviating poverty and empowering women. She also highlighted the establishment of specialized courts and child-friendly courtrooms to improve the justice system for victims of violence. The participation of CHR and DSWD at CSW69 reinforces the Philippines’ commitment to gender-responsive governance, human rights, and sustainable development, aligning with global efforts to empower women.

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has raised concerns over the condition of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is currently detained at the International Criminal Court (ICC) Detention Center in The Hague. Go, who has long been a close aide and confidant of Duterte, revealed that the former president has allegedly been denied access to essential medications. In an emotional statement, Senator Go expressed his deep worry for Duterte’s health, saying that the former leader requires continuous medical care. According to Go, he has been by Duterte’s side for over two decades, ensuring that his health needs were always met, even after he assumed his senatorial role. Senator Go also appealed to the Filipino people to remain calm and united as they seek justice for Duterte. He encouraged continued prayers for the former president’s well-being and his safe return to the Philippines as soon as possible. The former President, who faces allegations related to the controversial war on drugs during his presidency, has maintained his stance against the court’s jurisdiction. ibutions to the nation during his tenure.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte is strengthening his legal defense as he prepares to face the International Criminal Court (ICC). Vice President Sara Duterte confirmed that international lawyer and ICC defense counsel Atty. Nicholas Kaufman, who has practiced in both the United Kingdom and Israel, will lead her father’s legal team. She added that she plans to meet Kaufman in person this weekend to finalize their legal strategy. “We already have a lead counsel. We met with him yesterday, and we will meet again in person when he arrives this weekend,” the vice president told reporters outside the ICC detention center on Friday. Kaufman will be supported by Duterte’s longtime legal allies, former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque. Sara Duterte visited her father at the ICC detention center on Friday, shortly after his initial appearance before the ICC pre-trial chamber. She said the former president appeared well-rested and has been spending his time sleeping and watching television.During their conversation, Duterte urged his daughter to return to the Philippines as soon as possible. She assured him that she would fly home once she meets with the legal team and another relative arrives to take her place in The Hague.“I just need the next of kin to come here. Everyone is currently applying for a visa,” she said.The former president appeared via video link before the ICC pre-trial chamber, where he was formally informed of the charges against him and his legal rights. Medialdea, speaking in Duterte’s defense, condemned the arrest, calling it an “extrajudicial rendition” and stating, “ This is pure and simple kidnapping.”The ICC has scheduled a pre-trial hearing for September 23 to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a full trial.

Former Vice President Leni Robredo has welcomed the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, calling it a crucial step toward justice and accountability for the thousands of deaths linked to his administration’s controversial drug war. Speaking at a campaign event and press briefing in Naga City on Saturday (March 15), Robredo said Duterte’s predicament underscores the importance of upholding human rights and the rule of law. She was joined by her ally, former Senator and now Mamamayang Liberal party-list nominee Leila De Lima. Robredo drew comparisons between Duterte’s legal troubles and De Lima’s prolonged detention, recalling how the former senator was imprisoned for over six years on what she described as trumped-up drug charges during Duterte’s presidency. “I won’t go into the legalities, but I can’t help but compare former President Duterte’s situation now to what Senator Leila went through before,” Robredo said. “We all know what she endured—incarcerated for almost seven years on fabricated charges.” Duterte was reportedly flown to The Hague following his arrest to face charges of crimes against humanity, specifically for mass killings under his anti-drug campaign. The former president has repeatedly denied wrongdoing, dismissing the allegations as politically motivated. Robredo, however, emphasized that the arrest marks an essential step toward justice. “This is the first step toward accountability. When people talk about due process and fairness, I always think back to what Senator Leila went through,” she added. The arrest has sparked both condemnation and support, with human rights groups hailing the development as a victory for victims’ families, while Duterte’s allies decry it as a political attack.