Senate Democrats Propose Resolution for U.S. Recognition of Demilitarized Palestinian State

WASHINGTON – In an unprecedented move, several Senate Democrats have introduced a resolution advocating for the United States to formally recognize a demilitarized Palestinian state. This initiative marks the first instance of such a resolution in the Senate’s history. The nonbinding resolution simultaneously calls on Hamas to lay down arms and release hostages, while urging Israel to end military operations and halt further settlement expansion. Despite the resolution’s lack of support from Republicans in the GOP-controlled Senate, its backers emphasize the symbolic and diplomatic significance of the effort as international attention intensifies. Supporters argue the resolution sends a crucial message ahead of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, where multiple U.S. allies are preparing to endorse Palestinian statehood. They hope this initiative will increase pressure on the current administration to respond to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Senator Jeff Merkley, who spearheaded the effort, stated, \"Recognition of a Palestinian state is not only a practical step the United States can take to help build a future where Palestinians and Israelis can live in freedom, dignity and security, but it is the right thing to do. America has a responsibility to lead, and the time to act is now.\" He further emphasized that establishing two states, one for each people, remains the only viable pathway to lasting peace and prosperity. \"Israel’s current military policies in Gaza risk creating a bleak future for both Palestinians and Israelis,\" Merkley warned. This resolution comes shortly after independent Senator Bernie Sanders publicly accused Israel of committing \"genocide\" in Gaza, a charge Israel denied. Sanders argued that Israel’s actions over the past two years represent more than self-defense, describing them as an all-out assault on the Palestinian population. Meanwhile, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported the ongoing destruction of civilian infrastructure and increasing humanitarian difficulties in Gaza City due to Israeli military operations. Health authorities based in Gaza report the death toll in the Gaza Strip has exceeded 65,000 since October 7, 2023, underscoring the severe toll of the conflict. The resolution, while unlikely to pass given current Senate dynamics, aims to reshape the dialogue surrounding U.S. policy on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and address the urgent humanitarian needs in the region.

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Senate Prepares to Unseal Corruption Evidence Tied to Flood-Control Projects

Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson has announced that sealed boxes of documents and a computer hard drive, purportedly containing significant evidence of corruption, will be unsealed on September 22. These materials were provided by Brice Hernandez, the former assistant engineer of DPWH Bulacan, who is currently detained in the Senate for contempt.\n\nHernandez claims that the evidence implicates Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva in corrupt activities related to flood-control projects, which may have involved the misappropriation of billions of pesos. Over the weekend, Senate President Tito Sotto allowed Hernandez temporary release from detention to retrieve the materials, which remain sealed as of this report.\n\nDescribing the forthcoming disclosure, Lacson stated in a Sunday radio interview, \"This isn’t just paper, this could be dynamite. If these files really prove what Brice says, then the whole scandal takes a very different turn.\"\n\nThe Senate Blue Ribbon Committee is scheduled to resume hearings on September 23, where it will examine the contents of the evidence. Political observers anticipate that the unsealing could be pivotal, potentially altering the course of the investigation dramatically.\n\nInitially reluctant to name individuals without proof, Hernandez now asserts that his documents link not only Estrada and Villanueva but also former Caloocan congresswoman Mitch Cajayon-Uy to the alleged irregularities.\n\nAn anonymous Senate staff member commented, \"Accusations are one thing, but having hard drives and documentation to substantiate these claims transforms the situation completely.\"\n\nThis development marks a significant moment, especially given Estrada’s previous associations with corruption investigations and Villanueva’s reputation as \"Mr. TESDA\" with a clean public image. Should Hernandez’s claims be validated by the evidence, the ensuing political fallout could severely damage the careers of those involved and destabilize established political dynasties.\n\nThe flood-control project probe appears poised to dismantle longstanding defenses against accountability, potentially ushering in one of the most consequential Senate scandals in recent history.

Donald Trump and Elon Musk Reunite at Memorial for Charlie Kirk

Former President Donald Trump and entrepreneur Elon Musk were seen sitting together at a memorial event held for conservative figure Charlie Kirk on Sunday in Glendale, Arizona. The occasion brought together thousands to honor Kirk, who was fatally shot on September 10 at a university campus in Utah. The two appeared to engage in cordial conversation during the event, with video footage showing them exchanging a handshake. This interaction was shared on social media by the official White House account on X, the platform owned by Musk. Musk, who once served as the head of Trump's "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE) during Trump’s second term, played a significant role in cutting federal jobs considered inefficient. He also donated over $270 million to Trump’s campaign and actively campaigned in critical swing states. Despite their earlier collaboration, the two experienced a public falling out over Trump’s major tax and spending legislation, which Musk vehemently criticized as "utterly insane and destructive." Following the split, Musk announced plans to form an "America First" political party, though this initiative has yet to gain traction. Marking their renewed public rapport, Musk posted a photo of the pair at the memorial on his X account, captioning it simply, "For Charlie." This moment suggests a possible reconciliation between the former president and the tech billionaire amid evolving political dynamics.

Senator Estrada Denies Any Involvement in Flood Control Project Kickback Allegations

Senator Joseph Ejercito Estrada’s camp reaffirmed on Monday, September 22, their confidence that no evidence connects him to alleged kickbacks related to flood control projects. This statement follows reports that former Bulacan assistant district engineer Brice Hernandez recovered documents and digital files purportedly supporting accusations against several lawmakers. Hernandez, who had been cited for contempt, previously accused Estrada and Senator Joel Villanueva of involvement in irregularities tied to flood control efforts. He claimed that Estrada inserted flood control projects worth P355 million into the General Appropriations Act, while Villanueva allocated P600 million for similar work in Bulacan’s first district, both allegedly in exchange for a 30 percent kickback. Estrada’s spokesperson, lawyer Bianca Soriano, emphasized the senator’s consistent denial of all such allegations, stating, \"For now, I can share that Senator Estrada has always been firm and consistent in denying these allegations, and we remain confident that no evidence exists linking him to any supposed kickbacks in flood control projects.\" Furthermore, Estrada has no plans to recuse himself from the ongoing Senate Blue Ribbon Committee investigation. Soriano noted, \"There is no valid ground nor sound reason for Senator Estrada to inhibit from the Blue Ribbon Committee. He has consistently denied the baseless allegations against him and remains committed to performing his duties with impartiality and integrity.\"

Representative Benitez Calls for Transparency and Reform as Congress Reviews National Budget

Bacolod City's lone district Representative Albee Benitez has called on Congress to act decisively in promoting transparency and genuine reform in the national budget following the September 21 rally against corruption. "The people have clearly voiced their rejection of corruption," Benitez stated, emphasizing the significance of the public demonstrations. He noted that these rallies reflect the deepening frustration of Filipinos toward corrupt practices and serve as a strong demand for honesty, accountability, and systemic reform. "This is a powerful message that must guide our budget deliberations," he added. As Congress moves forward with reviewing the national budget, Rep. Benitez pledged to maintain a vigilant and independent stance. "I will rigorously examine the budget to ensure no dubious insertions or questionable projects slip through unnoticed," he affirmed. He further stressed the responsibility of lawmakers to approve budget items that truly benefit the public, cautioning against favoring private interests. "Our citizens have expressed their stance through peaceful protest; now it is incumbent upon us to uphold their call for integrity within the halls of Congress," Rep. Benitez concluded.

Woman Grapples with Proposal from Longtime Gay Friend, Expert Offers Perspective on Love and Acceptance

A 37-year-old woman identified only as Celia wrote to an advice column sharing her unexpected romantic developments with her best friend, Ric, a 34-year-old gay man. Having maintained a close decade-long friendship, Celia admits that last year she began developing romantic feelings for Ric while noticing changes in his own relationship outlook. She revealed, "Sometimes I missed him deeply, demanding his presence," and observed that Ric had stopped entertaining other male relationships due to repeated heartbreaks. In May, their relationship evolved physically, occurring weekly, culminating in Ric suddenly proposing marriage to her. Celia confesses confusion and seeks guidance, uncertain how to respond given Ric's sexual orientation. Advice columnist Noy Kulas responded with an emphatic message on the importance of prioritizing personal happiness over societal perceptions. He said, \"What matters most is your love and happiness, not the judgment of others who contribute nothing to your life. Don\'t burden yourself with societal views; start by loving yourself.\" He reassured Celia that Ric\'s sexual orientation does not determine his capacity for change or deep affection. \"You have witnessed his transformation and dedication to you,\" Kulas noted. \"It\'s entirely possible for someone to evolve, especially after repeated disappointments in life and love.\" Underlining that the foundation of any marriage is mutual love and understanding, he encouraged Celia to focus on their feelings rather than external opinions. \"If you truly love each other and choose to marry, then go forward with confidence.\"

Senator Marcoleta and Justice Secretary Remulla Clash Over Restitution Requirement in Witness Protection Program

During a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on the ongoing flood control scandal, Senator Rodante Marcoleta and Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla engaged in a contentious exchange regarding the conditions for entry into the Witness Protection Program (WPP). The dispute centered on whether restitution must be made before an individual qualifies for protection under the program. Marcoleta firmly argued that the law does not mandate restitution prior to WPP admission, pointing out that any civil liabilities and restitution are determined by courts only after successful criminal prosecution. He stated, \"How can you say someone will restitute? Are there findings on how much or in what manner restitution should be made? This is just an application stage. Please don\'t alter the legal requirements, Mr. Secretary.\" Repeatedly emphasizing the legal provisions, Marcoleta challenged Remulla by saying, \"This is not my opinion, it\'s what the law states, Mr. Secretary.\" Justice Secretary Remulla conceded that the law itself does not explicitly require restitution before WPP admission. However, he defended his stance by highlighting the broader purpose of the legislation, underscoring the importance of justice — especially in cases involving financial crimes where restitution plays a vital role. He explained, \"It\'s not explicitly stated in the law, but we operate based on the intent behind it. Restitution represents what is morally right and expected by society. Even if the law doesn\'t specify it, this principle guides us.\" The debate escalated as Marcoleta accused Remulla of effectively rewriting the law by imposing restitution as a requirement and warned that such an action might have legal consequences, including possible disbarment. Remulla responded by describing the Department of Justice\'s approach as case-specific, shaped by the unique facts of each situation. He emphasized efforts to conserve assets from the outset, citing the severity of the alleged financial crimes and the benefit of preserving resources for the country. \"Given the gravity of these financial offenses, protecting assets early is in the national interest, sir,\" Remulla asserted. Marcoleta rebutted by reaffirming that civil liability and restitution are implicitly linked to the criminal prosecution process, with courts determining restitution amounts—not preliminary goodwill assessments. He stressed that imposing restitution as a preliminary condition contradicts legal provisions. \"That\'s not in the law unless you can cite a relevant legal clause stating otherwise,\" Marcoleta insisted. Remulla concluded by expressing regret over their disagreement but affirmed the department\'s commitment to pursuing its responsibilities as deemed appropriate. This exchange sheds light on the complexities surrounding the enforcement of the Witness Protection Program within cases involving significant financial irregularities and the legal interpretations shaping its application.

AMLC Freezes Bank Accounts of Individuals Linked to Flood Control Controversy

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has imposed freeze orders on the bank accounts of multiple individuals involved in the flood control scandal, as disclosed by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Tuesday. This development came shortly after the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) recommended the filing of charges with the Department of Justice (DOJ). Speaking during a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing, Secretary Remulla detailed the swift response from the DOJ upon receiving the NBI’s recommendation, which was formally treated as a complaint. "We contacted the AMLC and provided them with a digital file containing the details of the case. The AMLC acted promptly since there was already a filed complaint with the Department of Justice," Remulla explained. He further stated, "Given this, I believe that the AMLC has already issued freeze orders on the bank accounts of several individuals." Among those named by the NBI are Senators Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Elizaldy Co, former Department of Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, and former Caloocan Congresswoman Mitch Cajayon. Their assets are now subject to the freeze orders as the investigation proceeds.

Senator Calls for Return of Stolen Funds Before Witness Protection Eligibility

In a Senate inquiry on a flood control scandal, Senator Bam Aquino asserted on Tuesday that restitution of misappropriated public funds should be a prerequisite for individuals seeking inclusion in the Department of Justice's (DOJ) Witness Protection Program (WPP). Aquino questioned Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla during the Senate blue ribbon committee session about making the return of pilfered government money a condition for state witness status. "I believe that is what many people expect. If someone wishes to become a state witness, it is crucial that the money stolen from our nation is returned," Aquino stated. Justice Secretary Remulla responded that while court orders generally dictate restitution, the DOJ also treats the willingness to return funds as an indicator of a witness's sincerity. "Returning the money is a court mandate. However, to assess a witness's good faith, this is one of the questions we ask," Remulla explained. "If they want protection, they must demonstrate complete sincerity by returning the funds. This serves as a test to determine the witness's reliability. Although not codified in policy, it is a measure we use." The issue triggered a sharp exchange with Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who maintained that no existing law requires restitution for potential witnesses seeking government protection. In contrast, Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan highlighted that no legislation prohibits witnesses from voluntarily returning ill-gotten gains to the state in good faith. Senator Erwin Tulfo also supported the proposal, remarking, "We shouldn't be constrained by the law at times. Sometimes, it is necessary to bend the rules to meet the people's expectations. The welfare of the public is above the law." The debate underscores ongoing discussions about legal frameworks surrounding witness protection and accountability for recovered public funds.