Top News Asia, Jupiter Street, Bel Air, Makati (2026)

29/05/2026

BREAKING NEWS | The Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed that it has received the complaint filed by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) against Sen. Robin Padilla.

According to DOJ spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez, the complaint was received by the DOJ at 4:50 p.m. on Thursday, May 28.

The complaint will undergo evaluation in accordance with established procedures and existing rules.

If sufficient evidence is found, the complaint will be docketed for a full preliminary investigation to determine whether there is prima facie evidence to file charges in court against the respondents.

29/05/2026

BOC Seizes ₱841-Million Worth of Suspected Counterfeit Goods in Valenzuela

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) confiscated an estimated ₱841 million worth of suspected counterfeit products from a warehouse in Valenzuela City as part of its intensified campaign against illicit trade.

The operation was launched following intelligence reports regarding the alleged storage of fake goods in the area. Acting on the information, personnel from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) conducted surveillance and validation operations before serving a Letter of Authority on April 10, 2026.

Authorities discovered 1,460 boxes of perfumes and 364 boxes of lotions bearing trademarks of international brands such as Jo Malone, Versace, and Cetaphil, among others.

The seized items are suspected to be in violation of the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines and provisions of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act concerning the importation and possession of infringing goods.

The warehouse was sealed and secured by customs authorities with assistance from the Philippine Coast Guard pending further investigation. A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued on April 28, 2026.

The BOC said the operation reflects its continuing efforts to curb illicit trade, protect consumers, and safeguard legitimate businesses from unfair competition.

Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno commended District Collector Geoffrey de Vera of the Manila International Container Port (MICP), CIIS-MICP personnel, and partner enforcement agencies for the successful intelligence-driven operation. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening border protection and intensifying anti-smuggling efforts in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

28/05/2026

WATCH: COMELEC headed by Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia Proclamation of 1 Tahanan Party-List Rep. Elmer V. Catulpos

28 May 2026

Courtesy: COMELEC

28/05/2026

“Truth Will Have Its Day”: Jinggoy Estrada Vows Legal Fight Before Sandiganbayan

Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada has vowed to exhaust all legal remedies following the filing of cases against him before the Sandiganbayan, insisting that crucial evidence and due process were allegedly disregarded during the proceedings.

In his statement, Estrada revealed that his legal team is currently preparing the necessary actions to expose what he described as irregularities in the process, including evidence that supposedly did not receive proper weight and consideration from authorities.

Among the key documents cited by the senator is a letter from the Senate Legislative Budget Research and Monitoring Office (LBRMO), which allegedly states that there is no record showing that he introduced any insertion in the 2025 national budget. According to Estrada, the document directly contradicts the allegations against him but was allegedly ignored.

The senator also questioned the process undertaken by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Ombudsman, claiming that he was not given sufficient opportunity to review their resolutions or file the proper explanation and Motion for Reconsideration before the cases were elevated to the Sandiganbayan.

Estrada stressed that such actions carry serious implications on his constitutional right to due process.

He further noted what he described as the unusually rapid movement of cases involving some members of the Senate majority bloc following the change in Senate leadership.

“Barely a week after the DOJ issued its Resolution in my case, agad nagsampa ng kaso ang Ombudsman nang hindi nagsasagawa ng sarili nitong masusi at independent fact-finding investigation,” Estrada said.

The senator pointed out that under existing procedures, a fact-finding investigation is considered a vital step before filing cases before the anti-graft court.

He likewise questioned whether the Ombudsman’s earlier assurance of conducting an “independent review and resolution on the merits of the case” was truly fulfilled based on the sequence of events.

Despite the controversy, Estrada maintained that he remains firm in defending his principles and his name.

“As I have said before, if this is the price that I have to pay for standing by my principles and for what I believe in, then so be it,” he stated.

Estrada added that he would continue seeking the truth and defending himself in the proper forum and in accordance with the law.

28/05/2026

When the Floodgates Open, So Do the Charges against Senator Jinggoy Estrada

The flood control controversy just got a political plot twist worthy of primetime television.

On Thursday, May 28, Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano walked into the Sandiganbayan office carrying more than just documents, he carried criminal charges linked to the alleged flood control scam, with Senator Jinggoy Estrada now caught in the legal current.

In a country where flood control projects are supposed to stop disasters, not create political ones, the case is making waves fast. Instead of draining problems, the controversy appears to have flooded the headlines with questions about accountability, public funds, and whether taxpayers were left high and dry while projects allegedly flowed elsewhere.

The image alone was enough to spark buzz: Clavano arriving at the Sandiganbayan, calm but carrying legal thunder. No grand speeches, no dramatic soundtrack, just paperwork heavy enough to shake the political weather forecast.

For many Filipinos, flood control has long been one of those issues that resurfaces every rainy season like an unwanted sequel. Roads drown, communities suffer, and citizens wonder where billions in infrastructure funds actually go. This time, however, the flood may have reached the halls of power.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada now finds himself facing a storm that cannot be solved with sandbags or pumping stations. Meanwhile, Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano has become the latest face of a government office trying to prove that anti-corruption efforts are not just for press releases.

In politics, timing is everything. In scandals, timing is louder. And in this case, the flood control issue has turned into a reminder that when public money is involved, paper trails can become tidal waves.

28/05/2026

BIR Files Criminal Complaints Against Four Delinquent Taxpayers Over P58.5-M Tax Liabilities

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has filed criminal complaints before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against three corporations and one individual for allegedly failing to pay a combined P58.5 million in taxes, penalties, and surcharges.

Charged for willful failure to pay internal revenue taxes under Section 255 of the National Internal Revenue Code were Annalyn Esteves Hara, Hamaya Philippines Corporation, Antipas DT Construction and Development Corporation, and SH Business Construction Services Inc., along with their responsible corporate officers.

Among the cases, Hamaya Philippines Corporation of Bacoor, Cavite posted the highest liability amounting to P27.294 million in deficiency income and withholding taxes for taxable year 2017. Annalyn Esteves Hara of Sorsogon allegedly owes P15.903 million covering income tax and value-added tax (VAT) for the same year.

Meanwhile, Antipas DT Construction and Development Corporation of Digos, Davao del Sur was charged over P9.661 million in unpaid income tax, VAT, expanded withholding tax, and documentary stamp tax for taxable year 2019. SH Business Construction Services Inc. faces a P5.648-million liability in income tax and VAT for 2017 after the BIR reportedly failed to locate the company at its registered address.

According to the BIR, the taxpayers ignored repeated notices, final assessment notices, and warrants of distraint and levy issued over several years, prompting the agency to pursue criminal action.

BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza emphasized that tax liabilities remain enforceable despite noncompliance with notices.

“Once assessments become final and executory, the BIR is prepared to pursue the appropriate legal remedies, including criminal action,” Mendoza said.

He also urged taxpayers to immediately respond to BIR notices and settle obligations through proper channels before cases escalate.

The agency said the four complaints bring to 78 the total number of cases filed before the DOJ under the Run After Tax Evaders (RATE) Program since Mendoza assumed office six months ago, under the Revenue Collection and Base Protection pillar of the BIR’s DARES program.

Violations under Section 255 of the Tax Code carry penalties ranging from fines of at least P10,000 to imprisonment of one to ten years. Corporate officers found liable may also face additional penalties under Sections 253 and 256 of the Tax Code.

28/05/2026

Brian Poe Pushes for Stronger Philippine Coast Guard Support

FPJ Panday Bayanihan Party-list Representative Brian Poe Llamanzares is calling for stronger institutional support for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) as discussions continue in the House of Representatives on the proposed “Revised Philippine Coast Guard Law.”

According to Poe, enhancing the capabilities of the PCG is essential in ensuring the country’s maritime security, improving disaster response, and protecting coastal communities across the archipelago.

During the hearing of the House Committee on Transportation, Poe recognized the sacrifices and unwavering dedication of Coast Guard personnel who continue to serve despite the many dangers they face at sea each day.

“The Philippine Coast Guard plays a vital role in safeguarding our nation’s security and public safety. It is only right that they receive sufficient support and modern equipment,” Poe emphasized.

The congressman stressed that as the responsibilities of the Coast Guard continue to expand, there is also a growing need to strengthen its organizational structure, operational reach, and technical capabilities.

Under the proposed measure, the PCG’s maritime law enforcement functions are expected to be reinforced, particularly in combating smuggling, human trafficking, and other illegal activities in Philippine waters.

The bill also includes provisions aimed at improving the welfare of Coast Guard personnel, such as additional benefits, a more sustainable retirement system, and educational assistance for the families of fallen officers.

For Poe, strengthening the Coast Guard goes beyond maritime operations. He underscored that it is also a crucial investment in national security, environmental protection, disaster resilience, and economic development.

“A strong and prepared Coast Guard is essential in protecting our seas, our people, and our livelihoods,” he added.

In the end, Poe reaffirmed his support for initiatives that will provide the Philippine Coast Guard with a stronger foundation to continue its critical service to the Filipino people, proving that safeguarding the nation’s waters also means securing the country’s future.

28/05/2026

BIR to Jackpot Winners: “Congratulations… and Kindly Share.”

In the Philippines, hitting the jackpot now comes with two certainties: celebration… and taxation.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has officially clarified that jackpot prizes from casinos and gambling activities are considered taxable winnings under existing tax laws. In short, Lady Luck may hand you millions, but the taxman still gets a seat at the winner’s table.

Under BIR Memorandum Circular No. 57-2026, both fixed and progressive jackpots are now clearly covered by final withholding tax rules. So before winners start planning luxury cars, island vacations, or a dramatic resignation letter, the government reminds everyone that 20 percent of that windfall already has a destination.

For non-resident foreign winners, the rate climbs even higher to 25 percent, proving that in gambling, the house always wins… and apparently, so does the BIR.

The circular defines a progressive jackpot as the kind that grows larger as more bets are placed across gaming tables, bingo games, or electronic machines until one lucky player finally hits the magical combination. It’s the classic “life-changing moment,” now with automatic deductions.

BIR Commissioner Charlito Mendoza said the move aims to remove confusion and strengthen compliance as the country’s gaming industry continues to expand under PAGCOR and other government-regulated gaming zones.

And with the rise of billion-peso jackpots, the BIR clearly doesn’t want tax collections left to chance.

The agency also reminded gaming operators that they are responsible for withholding and remitting the correct taxes. Failure to do so could lead to penalties under the Tax Code, meaning casinos now have to watch the slot machines and the spreadsheets at the same time.

Still, the circular stops short of killing the excitement of gambling. After all, winning PHP100 million and taking home PHP80 million is still a pretty good day.

The latest policy simply reinforces an old Filipino reality: whether it’s salary, business, or sudden casino fortune, everyone eventually meets the BIR.

Because in the end, jackpots may be unpredictable, but taxes are always progressive.

28/05/2026

A MILESTONE—The Month of May is very special as it’s the birth month and also anniversary as Deputy Executive Minister of Brother Angelo Eraño V. Manalo. This cover issue is tribute to his leadership not just only for Iglesia Ni Cristo but for the whole country and humanitarian efforts for the nation.

Get to know him more under TopNewsAsia.
In National Bookstores and Fullybooked

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28/05/2026

Pushing Lower Medicine Costs: Trump Highlights Prescription Drug Savings Under TrumpRx Initiative

US President Donald Trump announced that the government’s prescription drug discount platform, TrumpRx.gov, has generated significant savings for American consumers since its launch in February. Speaking during a public address, Trump said the website has already recorded more than 10 million visits and has helped Americans save over $400 million on prescription medications.

Trump said the initiative forms part of the administration’s broader effort to reduce healthcare costs and improve access to affordable medicines. He cited estimates from the Council of Economic Advisers projecting that the administration’s “most favored nation” drug pricing policies could save Americans more than $500 billion over the next decade. According to the President, the policy seeks to lower prescription drug prices by aligning costs with rates paid in other countries.

The President described the initiative as a major breakthrough in reducing healthcare expenses in the United States. He emphasized that the administration remains committed to implementing policies aimed at easing the financial burden of healthcare and expanding access to lower-cost prescription drugs for American consumers.

🎥The White House

28/05/2026

WATCH| Congratulations, Lt. General Donald M. Gumiran PA, Commander, Western Mindanao Command, for being recognized as one of TopNewsAsia’s distinguished “Nation Builders: Leading Men” Awardees.

Your unwavering leadership, steadfast dedication to peace and security, and genuine commitment to serving the Filipino people continue to inspire not only the men and women of WESTMINCOM, but the entire nation. Guided by your leadership philosophy — “Drive the Information Environment, Mentor and Motivate, and God Above All” — and through the implementation of WESTMINCOM CARES (Collective Action for Resilience, Economy, and Security), the Command continues to advance peace, stability, resilience, and sustainable development across Western Mindanao.

Your Team WESTMINCOM is truly honored and proud to serve alongside a leader whose professionalism, humility, and devotion to duty exemplify the finest ideals of military service and nation-building.

Congratulations, Sir! Your exemplary leadership, vision, and service continue to bring pride and inspiration to WESTMINCOM, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Filipino people.

Top News Asia

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