AGP Executive Report

Weather & Classes: Heavy southwest monsoon rains kept schools on alert, with several LGUs suspending face-to-face classes in Metro Manila and parts of Luzon, including Valenzuela, Marikina, Malabon, and in Cavite, Batangas, and Rizal, while others shifted to alternative learning. Flood Cleanup & Waste: Metro Manila’s waterways stayed clogged after the weekend flash floods, with Parañaque reporting nearly 400 tons of garbage cleared from the Redemptorist Water Channel and MMDA warning of misinformation using old or AI-made flood images. Roads & Accountability: Sen. Panfilo Lacson pushed for a Senate probe into EDSA rehabilitation after fresh potholes appeared on newly repaired sections, citing possible flaws in planning and engineering. Courts & Governance: The Supreme Court dismissed a bid to force the Senate to release a draft flood-control report, saying there’s no legal duty to disclose unfinished documents. Politics & Corruption Claims: In the Sara Duterte impeachment trial, a COA auditor said confidential funds must be tied to authorized functions, while former DPWH chief Manuel Bonoan testified that senators in the 2025 budget received “leadership funds.” Economy & Services: ADB increased financing for the universal health care program with a $750M loan, and the House advanced a cybersecurity bill to protect critical infrastructure. Sports & Youth: Alex Eala got a Cincinnati Open bye, and Alas Pilipinas’ U17 girls volleyball team made history by reaching the World Championship round of 16.

Habagat Flood Fallout: Metro Manila officials are readying probes into recycled and AI-made flood photos and videos after PNP warned the public about misinformation amid monsoon rains. Garbage Crisis: President Marcos ordered fuel funds restored for the Diokno pumping station after repeated trash clogging worsened flooding, as Parañaque cleared hundreds of tons from the Baclaran waterway. Impeachment Update: COA auditor Xylene Mae del Campo told the Senate that VP Sara Duterte’s offices’ confidential fund spending was irregular, including issues over what can be kept confidential and how “rewards” were paid. Electricity Relief Fight: Sen. Mark Villar pushed to remove VAT on system loss charges, arguing consumers shouldn’t pay tax for electricity they didn’t use. Defense Pacts: The Senate ratified SOVFAs with Canada and New Zealand to boost joint exercises, training, and humanitarian cooperation. Sports: San Miguel Beer routed Titan Ultra in the PBA Governors’ Cup, but the game was marred by a knee injury to rookie Bryan Sajonia. Education: DepEd chief Sonny Angara praised Comelec for letting teachers use election service credits anytime after poll duty.

Budget Season: The DBM formally turned over the 2027 National Expenditure Program to Congress, with the House vowing to “rigorously scrutinize” spending so every peso benefits Filipinos. Flood Control & Weather: Flood control funding is back in the 2027 budget proposal, while Pagasa said habagat rains will keep hitting parts of Luzon, prompting class suspensions in some areas including Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro. Impeachment Fallout: In the Senate impeachment trial, COA auditors testified on alleged misuse of VP Sara Duterte’s confidential funds, while the DOJ filed grave threats complaints tied to her remarks. Labor & Courts: A lawmaker and labor groups asked the Supreme Court to review a Pasig court TRO blocking the first tranche of Metro Manila’s P85 wage hike. Local Economy & Agriculture: Sultan Kudarat signed nearly P2.4B for farm-to-market roads to help farmers move coffee and other products. Business & Energy: BSP is seeking longer access to liquidity for faster payments settlement, and ACEN reported a big jump in first-half profit driven by power sales. Sports: Converge snapped a four-game skid in the PBA Governors’ Cup; NLEX beat TNT in OT despite an import injury.

Weather & Disaster Response: Classes were suspended in parts of Luzon as habagat rains continue, with Pagasa warning of possible flash floods and landslides; the PNP also reported monsoon- and storm-related deaths rising to 26 as rescuers work through mud and debris. Flood Control & Accountability: President Marcos said dredging and opened drainage channels are helping Las Piñas floods recede faster, while Malacañang backed tougher penalties for improper garbage disposal after trash clogged a Parañaque waterway. 2027 Budget Push: The DBM formally turned over the P7.2-trillion 2027 National Expenditure Program to Congress; House leaders vowed tighter scrutiny so “every peso” delivers results, with flood control funds and education among key allocations. Politics & Governance: Senate passed on third reading a bill modernizing the Philippine Coast Guard; meanwhile, COA testimony in VP Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial highlighted disallowed confidential fund uses, and Sen. Pia Cayetano alleged authorities stopped accepting minority senators’ MAIFIP recommendations. Public Safety & Crime: PNP said a seized illegal .38 revolver from Caloocan cops didn’t link to prior crimes, while anti-drug operations in Parañaque netted shabu and a pistol. Sports: Converge snapped a skid in the PBA Governors’ Cup, and veteran goalkeeper Patrick Deyto retired from national team duty after the Asean Hyundai Cup finale.

Habagat Update: Pagasa said the southwest monsoon will keep bringing heavy bursts over parts of Luzon—especially Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro—while Metro Manila and much of the rest of Luzon see scattered rain and improving conditions; Tropical Storm Peilou is moving away and is unlikely to affect local weather. Flood Impact in Metro Manila & Luzon: MMDA reported less severe flooding this time, with once-impassable roads like España Boulevard and key underpasses staying passable, though some areas in Parañaque still flooded; in Manila, three evacuation centers remained open with 200 families (653 people) as of Monday evening. Class Suspensions: Laguna extended face-to-face class suspensions to Tuesday, while Quezon City and Taguig also suspended classes and shifted to alternative learning modes. Casualties & Damage: The combined habagat and cyclones Luis and Maymay death toll rose to 16, and DepEd said about 4,000 classrooms were damaged, with thousands of learners and staff affected. Health Leadership Shake-up: DOH Sec. Jose “Brix” Pujalte resigned after just 28 days; Edwin Mercado of PhilHealth was named replacement. Budget & Flood Control: DBM submitted the P7.2-trillion 2027 National Expenditure Program to Marcos; lawmakers urged strict safeguards and full accounting for flood control funds. Extradition Watch: Palace said Marcos will decide within weeks on the US request to extradite Apollo Quiboloy, with treaty options under review. Business & Tech: Globe said AI-driven demand is straining data center capacity, while retailers brace for a tougher second half amid fuel and spending pressure. Sports: Alex Eala’s Toronto run ended with a quarterfinal loss to Belinda Bencic; Frank Lao was elected PNVF president; Nicole Rojo and Irienold Reig Jr. won in IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu.

Tax Relief Push: The House Ways and Means Committee approved raising the personal income tax exemption ceiling to ₱350,000 (from ₱250,000) and exempting microenterprises from the 2% minimum corporate income tax, with BIR saying higher earners also benefit as tax brackets adjust. Habagat Response: Metro Manila reported less severe flooding thanks to drainage clearing under Oplan Kontra Baha, while other areas still saw evacuations and class suspensions; in Manila, 200 families remained in evacuation centers as rains continued. Disaster Updates: Bulacan reported 11,535 evacuees, and Dagupan City declared a state of calamity as flooding affected thousands; Quezon City and Pasig also logged thousands in shelters. Budget Oversight: House leaders said flood-control and shoreline protection funding should return in the 2027 budget but with safeguards, as Congress coordinates aid delivery with OCD, DSWD, and DOH. Power Worries: NGCP issued red alerts for parts of the Visayas and Mindanao due to tight supply, raising brownout risk. Public Safety & Services: DepEd reminded schools to use its 4H safety protocol during unsafe conditions and approved 133 new plantilla positions for learners with disabilities. Anti-Drug Incident: PDEA mourned an intelligence agent killed in a Tawi-Tawi buy-bust operation.

Habagat Disruptions: Heavy southwest monsoon rains flooded parts of Metro Manila, with some roads in Subic, Zambales deemed impassable and MMDA suspending expanded number coding; Malacañang also ordered work-from-home for government offices and suspended classes in NCR and several Luzon provinces, while the Senate postponed VP Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial to Friday. Court & Politics: Sandiganbayan cancelled Sen. Rodante Marcoleta’s pretrial due to bad weather, resetting it to Aug. 14, as the case over alleged undeclared campaign donations and PD 46 violations continues. Power & Economy: Rooftop solar adoption is expected to push down electricity spot prices, but the DOE still has “no clear fix” for power supply problems as analysts warn growth remains tough in the second half after Q2 GDP slowed to 2.3%. Business & Governance: DEPDev said red tape persists despite ease-of-doing-business reforms; DOF moves to shutter 21 state firms to free funds, while a flagship PPP for a UP-PGH cancer hospital failed to attract any bidder. Security & Public Safety: PNP will posthumously honor a Negros cop who died trying to rescue colleagues in a river; in Sulu, police plan to replicate the Indanan model for voluntary firearm surrender. Travel & Trade: Mactan-Cebu Airport will add new international routes, and the UK opened consultations for deeper trade ties ahead of possible CPTPP accession. Sports: PBA games were rained out and venues adjusted; volleyball: Alas Pilipinas won SEA V Cup Leg 2 silver after beating Indonesia.

Habagat Update: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is closely monitoring southwest monsoon flooding and landslide risks, with agencies told to stay on heightened alert and coordinate dam water releases as PAGASA keeps red and orange rainfall warnings over Luzon. Disaster Response: The PNP mobilized more personnel for evacuation and rescue, while Metro Manila saw localized flooding and class suspensions in parts of Luzon, including a Marikina River “first alarm” that could escalate to mandatory evacuation if levels hit 18 meters. Evacuations in Focus: In Ilocos Sur, residents in high-risk areas were ordered to evacuate; in Calabarzon, DSWD reported thousands of affected families, and Bacoor, Cavite recorded 931 families in evacuation centers. Transport Disruptions: Sea travel was disrupted as the Philippine Ports Authority logged canceled trips and “no sail” orders, while the PBA postponed Sunday games at Ninoy Aquino Stadium due to severe weather and roof leaks. Sports: Alex Eala eyes a Canadian Open quarterfinal vs Belinda Bencic after a gritty win over Caty McNally, while Alas Pilipinas women claimed SEA V Cup Leg 2 silver after a comeback vs Indonesia. Governance & Security: The Supreme Court adopted rules for civil forfeiture of POGO-related assets, and the PNP plans to replicate Indanan’s “gun-responsible” model to encourage voluntary firearm surrender.

Habagat Watch: Pagasa kept a red rainfall alert over Ilocos Sur and Benguet and issued orange warnings for Metro Manila and nearby provinces, warning of flooding and landslides. DOJ-US Extradition: Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida said the DOJ will review the US request to extradite Apollo Quiboloy, checking how overseas proceedings could affect his local cases. “Maleta boys” Pressure: Manila Rep. Benny Abante urged the four “maleta boys” to reveal who scripted their retracted affidavits and name any mastermind. AI Hub Debate: ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio warned against Pax Silica becoming a US-driven AI dumping ground, citing proposed state moratoriums. Social Protection: Sen. Bam Aquino filed a bill for a P2,000 monthly allowance for qualified PWDs via the National Disability Support Allowance Program. Women’s Crisis Center: Lawmakers broke ground for a Women and Children’s Crisis Center at The Haven for Women in Alabang, targeted to open by 2027. Sports & Culture: Alas Pilipinas notched big volleyball wins, while Alex Eala advanced in Toronto; Reina Filipinas’ inaugural coronation night drew early praise.

PBA Governors’ Cup: TNT roared back with a 114-80 rout of Titan Ultra as Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser and import Rahlir Hollis-Jefferson powered the win, while NLEX’s unbeaten start ended after Terrafirma beat the Road Warriors 114-109, with Brent Paraiso sparking the comeback. Weather & disasters: The DENR-MGB warned 8,911 barangays (about 21.2%) may face flooding and rain-induced landslides from Aug. 7-10, as habagat rains kept triggering drownings and landslides across Luzon; in Metro Manila, several areas saw knee-deep flooding. Maritime safety: The Coast Guard suspended voyages in parts of Southern Leyte due to rough seas tied to the southwest monsoon and Typhoon Dolphin. Politics & accountability: A House prosecution spokesperson said VP Sara’s camp should testify under oath over a COA confidential funds meeting; meanwhile, the Senate Blue Ribbon panel is preparing to probe an unnamed agency over alleged “big-time corruption.” Sports & culture: Alex Eala advanced to the Canadian Open Round of 16 despite a right-foot injury, and Alas Pilipinas Women snapped a seven-year losing streak to Vietnam in the SEA V Cup. Pageants: Reina Filipinas crowned Palawan’s Angelica Lopez as Grand International in its inaugural run.

Anti-China Casket Row: The DFA condemned anti-China caskets left across Metro Manila and said threats or violence against foreigners won’t be tolerated, as police investigate and the Chinese Embassy demands protection for its personnel. Metro Manila Wage Hike: Employers’ group Ecop said it expects no more moves to stop the ₱85 NCR minimum wage increase after talks, while lawmakers push to lift the TRO so the wage order can be implemented. Economy Watch: Malacañang called the Q2 GDP slowdown to 2.3% “temporary,” citing Middle East conflict and pointing to faster spending releases, as foreign reserves also slipped to $103.4B. Power Costs & Losses: The Management Association of the Philippines urged tougher enforcement against pilferage and nontechnical losses, saying consumers shouldn’t pay for utility inefficiencies. Politics & Courts: The Senate blue ribbon panel will hand its flood control inquiry to the Ombudsman; meanwhile, the Ombudsman dismissed the impact of “maleta boys” recantations on plunder cases. Transport: DOTr said the Villar Group agreed to terms for the LRT-1 Las Piñas station construction. Sports & Culture: Alex Eala advanced in tennis; Magnolia beat Meralco in the PBA despite a rain-delayed game; and Palawan’s Angelica Lopez won Reina Filipinas Grand International.

Anti-China Casket Scare: Police in Metro Manila identified a van driver allegedly used to unload caskets bearing anti-China messages, with authorities saying different vehicles were used and paid helpers carried out the deliveries. Diplomatic Pushback: The DFA condemned the display and said freedom of expression doesn’t cover threats or acts endangering others, while the Chinese Embassy urged a thorough probe and protection for its personnel. Weather Disruptions: Heavy rains tied to “Maymay” and the southwest monsoon kept flood and landslide risks high, with Pagasa reporting record 24-hour rainfall in parts of Zambales and warnings for Luzon. Economy Watch: Malacañang said the Philippines’ 2.3% Q2 growth slowdown is temporary, blaming Middle East war fallout, while investors still nudged the PSEi up modestly. Justice & Governance: NBI and Ombudsman developments continued—from subpoenas and investigations to Senate-related travel/leave clarifications—alongside fresh court appointments. Sports & Culture: UAAP sanctioned those involved in the Ateneo drowning incident; Reina Filipinas opened its Grand Coronation Night; and Alex Eala kept competing in Toronto after a doubles run with Venus Williams.

Extradition Watch: The DFA confirmed it has received the US request to extradite Apollo Quiboloy over sex-trafficking and related charges, endorsing it to the DOJ for the next legal steps. Labor & Courts: Labor groups denounced a new bid to suspend the NCR P85 minimum wage hike, filing to intervene in a Navotas RTC case tied to a fishing industry petition. Education & Discipline: DepEd Davao City apologized for “inappropriate behavior” by students during President Marcos’ visit, saying four students are facing disciplinary measures and guidance. Indigenous Rights: The NCIP defended revised FPIC guidelines as stronger accountability, while Amnesty warned the rules may speed up approvals over real consultation. Public Safety: PNP chief Nartatez ordered tighter enforcement of gun ownership laws after the Tacloban school shooting, stressing secure storage and action against loose firearms. Transport Relief: DOTr said existing PTMP participants will get a P20,000 monthly subsidy for amortization, alongside other fuel and fee relief measures. Economy & Digital ID: BSP plans to require banks to use National ID Authentication Services (NIDAS) in digital onboarding and KYC. Weather & Disaster: Tropical Depression “Maymay” triggered landslides and deaths across northern Luzon, including a deadly Benguet incident. Sports: Alex Eala drew sold-out Toronto crowds with a win over Alycia Parks, while pool star Chezka Centeno denied match-fixing claims after a loss in the 10-ball finals.

Sports: Two rookie Filipino pairs grabbed medals in their international debut at the Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships in Tagaytay, with Rhimel Cabides and Antonette Amante winning youth mixed pairs gold and Rhys Balmayor and John Mikaela Ladaran taking bronze. Basketball: Converge’s slump continued as Calvin Abueva’s 26-point effort couldn’t stop San Miguel Beer’s 126-114 win in the PBA Governors’ Cup. National Teams: New Gilas Pilipinas Women coach BT Toews vowed higher standards ahead of the Fiba Women’s Pre-Olympic Qualifier in Mexico and next month’s Asian Games. Public Safety: The PNP ordered tighter enforcement of gun ownership rules after a private first class was arrested for allegedly firing a .45 pistol in Taguig; separate reports also detailed a school shooting threat in Bukidnon that triggered a lockdown and metal-detector checks. Weather & Disaster Response: Tropical Depression Maymay (Kujira) weakened but still carried TCWS No. 1 in parts of Northern Luzon, as heavy rains left at least six dead in landslide and drowning incidents. Governance & Politics: Malacañang said it wants the US forced-labor tariff cut from 12.5% to at least 10% while negotiations continue, and called out senator-judges in VP Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial for appearing to act like defense lawyers. Local Services: DICT expanded “Free Wi-Fi for All” to 160 public sites in South and North Cotabato.

Weather Disruptions: Malacañang suspended work and classes in Metro Manila and 22 other Luzon areas as Tropical Storm “Maymay” and the southwest monsoon brought heavy rain, with vital services exempt; the Senate also cancelled Thursday work and postponed hearings. Public Safety Measures: In Ilocos Sur, Magsingal imposed a temporary liquor ban and a 7 p.m. to 4 a.m. curfew while Maymay affects the town. Power Costs Debate: Lawmakers pushed for a measured review of the “system loss” charge policy, arguing reforms should lower bills without hurting reliability. Wage Hike Court Fight: Senators urged the Pasig court to lift the TRO blocking the P85 NCR daily minimum wage increase. Impeachment Update: The Supreme Court dismissed VP Sara Duterte’s petitions over House impeachment proceedings as moot, while the Senate impeachment court continued examining confidential funds issues. Anti-Trafficking Probe: Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said human trafficking charges are being considered against former Negros Oriental Rep. Jacinto “Jing” Paras in an alleged “honey trap” scheme. Economy Watch: Inflation eased to 6.2% in July, helped by slower transport costs and steadier food prices. Energy Policy: DENR said 1.18 million hectares of forest lands will be opened to “climate-smart investments” for jobs and rural development. Sports: Alex Eala’s historic WTA singles title drew Senate honors, while PBA action saw San Miguel beat Converge and Blackwater upset Phoenix.

PBA Results: Blackwater stunned Phoenix 106-100 after rallying from 15 points down, snapping a skid and moving to 3-3 in Group B. Impeachment Watch: COA state auditor Roderick Wamil testified that the OVP allegedly refused to receive an Audit Observation Memorandum, calling it unusual, as the Senate continues the Sara Duterte confidential funds trial. Power & Weather: NGCP put the Visayas grid on red alert (3 p.m.-9 p.m.) due to coal plant outages and line trips, while Tropical Storm Maymay triggered class suspensions in parts of Luzon and a “no sail” order in several coastal areas. Local Governance: Marcos authorized DILG to further delegate foreign travel approvals for local officials, aiming to speed up processing during emergencies. Sports & Culture: The Senate adopted a resolution honoring late Ateneo cager Rene “Bobet” Baterbonia, while Reina Filipinas’ grand coronation is set for Aug. 7 in Pasay. Economy & Markets: PSEi slipped 0.16% as investors locked in gains after inflation eased to 6.2% in July.