Widow Seeks Relationship Advice Amid Age and Cultural Concerns

Inday, a 46-year-old widow for six years, has devoted herself to managing her family business and supporting her children’s education — one recently graduated, the other nearing graduation. She maintains an active lifestyle, frequently attending the gym where she met John, a 32-year-old single man who has shown genuine interest in her by courting her seriously, even visiting her home. Despite this, Inday faces resistance from her children who are uncomfortable with John’s much younger age, feeling uneasy about the small age gap. Meanwhile, Inday’s sister introduced her to a 50-year-old foreigner, divorced thrice but described as kind and handsome. However, Inday harbors concerns about potential cultural differences and hidden traits. Seeking guidance, Inday asked for advice on which relationship might be more appropriate, emphasizing that she is not rushing her decision but prefers thoughtful counsel beforehand. Responding to Inday’s situation, Noy Kulas highlighted the importance of cautious consideration. He pointed out that the children’s concerns about the 14-year age difference with John are understandable, as it may affect family dynamics and future stability. He also advised Inday to consider the longevity of the relationship, especially since John is younger and she may worry about being left behind in later years. Regarding the foreigner, Noy Kulas acknowledged the smaller age gap but warned against hasty decisions given the individual’s history of three divorces. He stressed the need for thorough understanding of past circumstances before committing. Ultimately, Noy Kulas encouraged Inday to prioritize her health and business first, reminding her that there are many potential partners and no need to rush. He concluded by advising her to continue enjoying single life while carefully evaluating her options. Inday’s story underscores the complexities widowed individuals face balancing familial expectations, personal happiness, and cultural differences when entering new relationships.

Comelec Probes Public Works Contractors for Illegal Campaign Contributions in 2022 Elections

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has announced an investigation into four contractors from the public works sector suspected of donating substantial sums to at least four national candidates during the 2022 elections, in apparent breach of the country’s election code. Comelec Chairman George Garcia confirmed that the inquiry involves several senators and a local candidate from Bulacan, though he did not reveal their identities. He emphasized that government contractors are categorically barred from providing financial support to political candidates. Garcia has instructed the Political Finance and Affairs Department (PFAD) to conduct a comprehensive review of the Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCEs) submitted by candidates in the last election cycle. The focus is on detecting contributions from companies engaged in government contracts, ensuring transparency in campaign financing. \"Through meticulous examination of these financial disclosures, the PFAD aims to uncover any irregularities or conflicts of interest that could undermine the electoral process\," Garcia said in a statement sent via Viber. \"This effort is essential to uphold accountability and integrity in political fundraising.\" This investigation coincides with heightened scrutiny surrounding government contractors implicated in alleged irregularities related to flood control projects. Garcia clarified that the probe extends beyond the initially identified individuals, covering all candidates, with findings expected within two to three weeks. \"We started with four contractors who may have government contracts and made political donations, including some linked to Senate candidates. We are still verifying the extent of their government connections,\" he explained. Citing Section 95 (c) of the Omnibus Election Code, Garcia reiterated the prohibition against natural and juridical persons holding government contracts from contributing financially to election campaigns. Violations carry penalties of imprisonment ranging from one to six years. Earlier disclosures included Senate President Francis \"Chiz\" Escudero acknowledging campaign support from Lawrence Lubiano, president of Centerways Construction and Development Inc. Garcia stressed the significance of enforcing these regulations to protect the electoral process from undue influence by entities benefiting from public funds: \"Maintaining the integrity of elections and preventing improper sway by private interests is paramount.\"

POLITIKO: A Trusted Guide Through Philippine Political Developments

POLITIKO has established itself as a premier source for in-depth and timely coverage of the Philippines' dynamic political landscape. Founded in 2014, the platform is dedicated to delivering comprehensive news and analysis that reflect the nation's current political climate. Upholding a strong commitment to journalistic integrity, POLITIKO provides readers with authoritative insights and updates designed to keep them well-informed and actively engaged with ongoing political developments. As a trusted compass navigating the complexities of Philippine politics, POLITIKO continues to serve as an essential resource for those seeking clarity amid shifting political currents.

Ayala Corp. Chair Urges UA&P Graduates to Embrace Challenges and Lead with Purpose

Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, chairman of Ayala Corporation, addressed the 414 graduates of the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) during their 30th Commencement Exercises held on August 16 at the Solaire Grand Ballroom in Parañaque City. His speech emphasized the significance of embracing difficult challenges as a means to develop character and contribute meaningfully to society. Opening his address, Zobel de Ayala highlighted UA&P’s commitment to nurturing leaders grounded in excellence, community, and wisdom, values that align closely with those upheld by Ayala Corporation. He noted that many of the company’s leaders, including ACEN CEO Eric Francia, are products of this institution. Reflecting on the turbulent times the Class of 2025 has endured, the chairman observed that while previous graduates faced the immediate crisis of the pandemic, this cohort was shaped amid a world transitioning toward a "new normal." Graduates navigated hybrid learning models and societal caution while confronting emerging global challenges such as geopolitical tensions, accelerating technological change, climate crises, divisive public discourse, and the proliferation of disinformation. Zobel de Ayala described today’s reality as a "real world" that is rapid yet lacks wisdom, connected yet fragmented, and unpredictable but ripe for courageous action. Drawing on the power of storytelling, he encouraged graduates to find coherence amidst uncertainty through a clear sense of purpose. He recounted Ayala Corporation’s nearly 200-year history, tracing its origins from agriculture and distilling to its present role in sectors including real estate, renewable energy, and technology. This legacy, he explained, is not defined by flawless decisions but by a steadfast commitment to build businesses that enable people to thrive. "Purpose gives direction," he stated, "while values guide how we navigate the path." The chairman reiterated the company’s core values—doing what is right even when unobserved, envisioning improvement beyond adequacy, inspiring excellence without immediate recognition, and fostering collaboration despite simpler alternatives. Zobel de Ayala urged graduates to reflect deeply on what they stand for, who they wish to become, and how their choices can impact others. He stressed that true character emerges through confronting difficult, sometimes unpopular decisions, citing memorable literary and historical figures as examples. He cautioned graduates against complacency in an age dominated by artificial intelligence, misinformation, and shortcuts, advocating instead for wisdom, truthfulness, attentive listening, and prioritizing meaningful impact over recognition. His closing advice was clear: "Choose the difficult. Because the real world demands courage, not convenience." Zobel de Ayala challenged the graduates to anchor their lives in service to causes greater than themselves, to have faith in their guiding values, and to summon courage in the face of fear and uncertainty. He reaffirmed confidence in their comprehensive formation through UA&P’s education, urging them to write their life stories with courage, clarity, and compassion. "Your presence here today proves you can choose the difficult," he said. "Write your story one choice at a time. And when your story faces the unknown, take courage and choose the difficult."

House Justice Committee to Investigate US Extradition Request for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy

The House Committee on Justice, led by Batangas 2nd District Representative Gerville Luistro, announced a motu proprio inquiry into the United States’ extradition request for controversial pastor Apollo Quiboloy. The investigation seeks to clarify perceived "insufficiencies and ambiguities" in the extradition process, lawmakers revealed. This move followed a formal appeal from Akbayan Party-list Representative Perci Cendaña, who urged the committee to hold a legislative inquiry into Quiboloy’s case. During the committee's organizational meeting, Luistro read Cendaña’s letter expressing the necessity for Congress to provide transparency on how extradition requests are handled, stating, "There is an overwhelming public interest and concern over the process by which extradition requests are received, evaluated, and acted upon. It is imperative that Congress, through your Committee, provide a forum where concerned agencies may clarify the status of the present request, explain the legal and procedural steps involved, and identify any gaps or ambiguities in our existing laws and treaties." Committee Vice Chairman Jonathan Keith Flores formalized the motion to investigate, which Luistro endorsed after no objections were raised. Luistro highlighted two principal laws for review: the 1994 extradition treaty between the Philippines and the US, and the Philippine Extradition Law (Presidential Decree 1069) from 1977. She noted these laws lack clarity on several critical points. "There are questions which answers could not be found in both laws," Luistro remarked. Among the issues discussed were whether a foreign country can initiate extradition if the individual has ongoing cases in the Philippines, and the specific timelines between the Department of Foreign Affairs' (DFA) request and transmittal to the Department of Justice (DOJ), as well as the DOJ’s filing of the petition with the appropriate regional trial court. Additional discussion focused on which court has jurisdiction over the extradition request—whether it should be the court handling local cases or the court corresponding to the individual’s residence, as indicated in the treaty or PD 1069. Vice Chairman Flores pointed out that existing laws lack provisions on who has the authority to decide between temporary and deferred surrender of the person subject to extradition. Regarding Quiboloy, Luistro emphasized in an interview that the inquiry is procedural and not a presumption of guilt. "This is not about prejudging anyone’s guilt. It is about upholding the rule of law, honoring our treaty commitments, and ensuring that victims see swift, fair, and transparent action," she said. Luistro added, "Our message is simple: no one is above the law. We will ask the DOJ and DFA to walk the public through the precise legal options—temporary or deferred surrender—and the concrete timeline so justice is neither delayed nor denied."

Survey Reveals High Satisfaction Rate Among Filipinos for Congressional District Representatives

House Senior Deputy Speaker David Suarez highlighted on Tuesday that the latest WR Numero Research survey, which found that nearly seven out of ten Filipinos (68 percent) are satisfied with their congressional district representatives, strongly affirms the leadership of Speaker Martin Romualdez and the sustained trust of Filipinos in their lawmakers. \"This survey underscores the confidence our citizens have not only in their local representatives but also in the collective guidance provided by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez. His steady leadership and vision for a Bagong Pilipinas keep the House of Representatives focused on addressing community needs,\" Suarez stated. He emphasized that these strong approval ratings illustrate the vital role of constituency support in the Philippine democratic process. \"A congressman’s responsibilities extend far beyond legislative work at the Batasan. It involves being actively engaged in the lives of constituents, understanding their concerns, offering practical solutions to their everyday challenges, and ensuring that government resources reach the grassroots. This is the true essence of representation,\" Suarez explained. He added, \"Nation-building starts within each district. When Filipinos feel their voices are acknowledged and their welfare safeguarded, it not only strengthens our democracy but also energizes our collective effort to advance the country.\" The WR Numero survey, conducted between July 29 and August 6, revealed a 68 percent approval rating for district representatives, with only 7 percent expressing dissatisfaction and another 7 percent uncertain about their congressional representative. \"This survey serves as a reminder that trust must be earned through dedicated service. Under Speaker Romualdez’s leadership, the House remains a true House of the People -- responsive, compassionate, and committed to building a stronger nation,\" Suarez concluded.

Judy Araneta Roxas, Matriarch of Prominent Political Family, Dies at 91

Judy Araneta Roxas, the esteemed matriarch of the influential Araneta-Roxas political family, died peacefully on August 26, merely 26 days after celebrating her 91st birthday. She was surrounded by family and close friends during her final moments. The Roxas family confirmed her passing through a social media announcement, stating, \"We are very sad to share that our mother Judy Araneta Roxas passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by family and loved ones. Please include her in your prayers.\" Born on July 31, 1934, Judy was the eldest daughter of Don Amado and Doña Ester Araneta from the prominent Araneta family of Bago, Negros Occidental. Throughout her life, she played significant roles in various organizations, serving as president of the J. Amado Araneta Foundation and senior vice president of Progressive Development Corporation. She also chaired the Gerry Roxas Foundation, a scholarship fund established in 1958 to honor her late husband, Senator Gerry Roxas. Together, they had three children: Maria Lourdes, Mar, and the late Gerry Jr. Paying tribute to his mother, Senator Mar Roxas’ wife, seasoned broadcaster Korina Sanchez-Roxas, posted on social media, \"I love you, Iya. Thank you for everything. Words will never be enough. Farewell for now.\"

Supreme Court Establishes Judicial Integrity Office to Enhance Investigation of Judicial Complaints

The Supreme Court (SC) has transformed its Judicial Integrity Board (JIB) into the Judicial Integrity Office (JIO) to strengthen and expedite investigations into administrative complaints involving members of the judiciary and their personnel. This reorganization grants the JIO extensive authority to conduct fact-finding inquiries and recommend appropriate sanctions or clemency for justices of the Court of Appeals, Sandiganbayan, Court of Tax Appeals, and Shari'ah High Court. The JIO's jurisdiction extends to judges of all trial courts, including Shari'ah district and circuit courts, as well as officials and employees across all courts under the judiciary's supervision, including the Supreme Court itself. It also covers personnel in offices supervised by the SC such as the Office of the Court Administrator, Philippine Judicial Academy, Judicial and Bar Council, Mandatory Continuing Legal Education, and the Office of the Judiciary Marshals. All administrative complaints will now be filed directly with the JIO. Complaints received by any court or judiciary office must be promptly forwarded to the JIO for assessment. Complaints against Supreme Court justices, whether anonymous or not, will be handled exclusively by the SC’s Ethics Committee. In addition to receiving complaints, the JIO holds the power to initiate investigations independently, upon the SC's instruction, or through referrals from agencies like the Civil Service Commission, Commission on Audit, Office of the Ombudsman, and Department of Justice. The office, led by the judicial integrity officer, evaluates all complaints and submits findings and recommendations to the full court. The JIO is empowered to issue subpoenas for witnesses and documents and may recommend the preventive suspension of respondents during investigations. For minor offenses involving individuals from the same judiciary office or court, it mandates a mandatory grievance conference conducted by the judicial integrity officer before cases are docketed. This change is formalized through a resolution authored by Associate Justice Antonio T. Kho Jr., approved by the full Supreme Court under Administrative Matter No. 23-12-05-SC. It aligns with the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027, aiming to improve the JIB’s capacity and processes. Following an organizational review since the JIB's establishment in 2020, a Technical Working Group recommended replacing the five-member board with a single judicial integrity officer appointed by the Court. The officer will serve a four-year term with one possible reappointment and may be replaced upon the retirement of the sitting Chief Justice, based on the incoming Chief Justice’s recommendation. Qualifications for the judicial integrity officer include being at least 45 years old, possessing a minimum of 15 years in legal practice, and having relevant experience in handling administrative complaints. To preserve impartiality, the officer must not be related within the third degree to any incumbent appellate justice, trial court judge, or judiciary employee. During the transition, the acting JIB chairperson will assume the role of judicial integrity officer, while existing board members will serve as consultants until their terms expire. Current JIB staff will be integrated into the JIO pending approval of its staffing plan. Under the Constitution, the Supreme Court maintains administrative supervision over all courts and personnel and holds the power to discipline lower court judges, including dismissal. In endorsing the resolution establishing the JIO, the SC stated: \"The Court will not hesitate to rid its ranks of undesirables who undermine its efforts towards an effective and efficient administration of justice, thus tainting its image in the eyes of the public.\"

More Than Presence: A Diplomatic Stand in the West Philippine Sea

In the turbulent waters of the West Philippine Sea, a clear and steady message has been sent. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s affirmation that Philippine vessels will "hold the line" is more than a response to provocations; it is a fundamental pillar of the nation's foreign policy and a quiet assertion of sovereignty.1 By dismissing any notion of a withdrawal, the administration reinforces a strategy where presence is paramount. This strategy provides a clear answer to critics who might prioritize short-term de-escalation over the long-term exercise of our sovereign rights. The government’s policy, however, demonstrates that *upholding one’s entitlements within an internationally recognized Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is not an act of aggression but a basic function of a sovereign state.* It is a diplomatic signal that the Philippines will not be pushed out of its own maritime home. Our vessels are not there to provoke, but to exist, as is our right. Without a consistent and visible presence in these strategic waters, the Philippines risks creating a vacuum that invites foreign encroachment, thereby passively relinquishing its maritime heritage. This policy of active presence, consistently applied, is crucial for national morale and international standing. It sends a message of stability to our allies and neighbors and embodies the core message: steadfast at sea, steadfast for the nation.

Forging a Stronger Future: PH-India Strategic Investments

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s active economic diplomacy has secured major investments from India, energizing the Philippines' future. Following the President's *successful meetings with Indian leaders*, four corporate giants have pledged significant projects. This signals a new era of targeted growth. ISON Tower will boost our digital infrastructure, Hinduja Group will advance renewable energy, and Tata Consultancy Services will expand our world-class IT-BPM sector. In healthcare, NephroPlus is set to launch 39 new dialysis centers, directly benefiting Filipino families. **When globally respected industry leaders like these commit to our country, it's a clear sign that our national economic direction is the right one.** This is "Maaasahan at Masipag" leadership transforming "matibay na ugnayan" into "mas maraming oportunidad para sa Pilipino".