Abbey M.

Vice President Sara Duterte was not allowed to personally attend the confirmation of charges proceedings against her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, at the International Criminal Court.

The Vice President revealed she was only able to follow parts of the proceedings through social media, after the family's applications to be present during the hearings this week were denied.

"Gusto ko sana ay makasama at makausap si dating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte ngayong panahon ng confirmation of charges. Pero hindi kasi pinayagan 'yung mga application ng pamilya sa linggong ito," VP Sara said.

["I wanted to be with and speak to former President Rodrigo Duterte during this confirmation of charges period. However, the family's applications were not approved this week."]

The Vice President also disclosed that the family is no longer holding out hope for the former president's return to the Philippines, noting that Rodrigo Duterte himself has already expressed acceptance of the possibility that he may die while detained at the ICC facility.

Despite this, VP Sara expressed gratitude toward her father's legal defense team at the international tribunal.

"Nagpapasalamat ako kay Atty. Kaufman at sa buong legal defense team ni dating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte sa kaso niya sa ICC, sa kanyang paghahanda, at sa pagpapakita nila ng confidence, kumpiyansa na walang ebidensya na magpapatunay na ginawa ni dating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte at mga sinasabing krimen," she said.

["I am grateful to Atty. Kaufman and the entire legal defense team of former President Rodrigo Duterte for his case at the ICC, for their preparation, and for showing confidence that there is no evidence that will prove former President Rodrigo Duterte committed the alleged crimes."]

The confirmation of charges hearing is a critical stage in the ICC process that determines whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed to full trial against the former president, who faces charges in connection with the deadly drug war carried out during his administration.

The government may soon block Telegram in the Philippines.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology is studying whether to restrict access to the popular messaging app after it was flagged as a platform being used for illegal gambling, pornography, and online sexual exploitation of children.

DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said gambling syndicates have migrated their operations to Telegram, using the app's privacy features to evade authorities. He added that the agency has been attempting to coordinate with Telegram's management to enforce local regulations, but has had difficulty making contact.

Secretary Aguda was firm on child abuse and online sexual exploitation, saying these are issues the government will not compromise on, and that platforms which fail to act will be blocked.

The DICT is working with the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation to go after illegal online gambling networks and other cybercrime operations.

Telegram has also been under international scrutiny. In 2024, company co-founder and chief executive Pavel Durov was arrested in France over allegations that the platform allowed criminal activity to spread unchecked. He was released on bail and the case against him remains ongoing.

There are trips you take to escape, and then there are trips that remind you why certain friendships are built to last. 

My recent adventure to Taiwan with my college best friend Shara was the latter — a journey that proved some destinations are simply better experienced with someone who has known you since your college days.

So is travelling to Taiwan with your best friend worth it? Here is everything we found out.

Why Taiwan is the perfect destination for a best friend Trip

Taiwan often gets overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors such as Japan, South Korea, or Thailand. But that is exactly what makes it such a gem. It is affordable, easy to navigate, incredibly safe, and packed with experiences that give you and your travel companion plenty to talk about and laugh about long after you land back home.

From the chaotic joy of night markets to scenic gondola rides and stunning natural landscapes, Taiwan has a rhythm that adapts to whatever kind of trip you and your best friend are after. If you are foodies, adventure seekers, or simply two people who want to wander without a rigid itinerary, this island is definitely giving. 

Getting there without the stress

We skipped the airport transfer and went straight for the commuter train from Taoyuan International Airport all the way to Ximending. It was honestly one of the best decisions we made. 

The ride was smooth, AFFORDABLE, and gave us our first real taste of how functional Taiwan's transport system is. We did the same route on the way back to the airport and had zero issues.

The commuter train dropped us off right in the heart of the city, and for a moment, we felt like we had figured Taiwan out. Then we stepped inside Taipei Main Station.

If there is one thing I wish someone had warned me about before this trip, it is this: Taipei Main Station is a world of its own. Shara and I got lost there more than once, not a little turned around, but genuinely, completely lost. 

The station is enormous, with multiple exits, underground corridors, and connecting lines that all look identical when you are carrying a heavy bag and running on no sleep. Taiwan's public transport system is world-class, and we loved every bit of it, except for this one station that humbled us every single time. 

Before you fly out, do yourself a favor: study the station map, save your bus schedules offline, and know your exit number. Consider it your Taiwan homework. You will be grateful you did.

Ximending’s night market magic

If there is one place in Taipei that perfectly captures the energy of Taiwan, it is Ximending. Shara and I spent an entire evening just eating our way through the crowd. We tried Grandma's Taiwan Chicken, which lived up to every bit of hype we had heard about it. 

We got our fix of stinky tofu (it smells like a dare but tastes like a reward.) We lined up for Xin Fu Tang brown sugar boba, savored crispy Uncle’s scallion pancakes fresh off the griddle, and ate sausage wrapped in sticky rice from a street vendor.

Every single bite was a conversation starter. There is something about sharing food in a packed night market at midnight that brings out the most honest and funniest conversations between two people. If you only have one night in Taipei, spend it here.

When you miss rice: 7-Eleven and Family Mart to the rescue

Here is something nobody tells you before your first Taiwan trip – at some point, your Filipino stomach is going to miss rice. It happened to us. And when it did, we walked into the nearest 7-Eleven and Family Mart and were genuinely amazed.

Taiwanese convenience stores are not like anything back home. They serve hot meals, rice bowls, onigiri, noodles, and a full lineup of snacks and drinks that could honestly pass as a proper restaurant menu. We ended up stopping at one almost every day. It was our little reset button between adventures, and honestly, we have zero regrets.

Nature, views, and a Gondola are worth every minute

Taiwan surprised us with how much natural beauty it packs into a small island. The Maokong Gondola was one of the highlights of the entire trip. Riding up through the mountains with a full view of Taipei below us was the kind of moment that makes you stop mid-sentence and just look. It is absolutely worth it, and I would do it again without hesitation.

We also visited Yehliu Geopark, and nothing quite prepares you for seeing those rock formations up close. The warm, coffee-colored stones rising out of the coastline looked almost sculpted, like nature decided to show off. I stood there longer than I probably should have, completely mesmerized. It is the kind of place that makes you reach for your camera and then forget to take the photo because you are too busy just staring.

The story we will never stop telling: Zhongli station and the iPhone 17

No trip with your best friend is complete without at least one moment that goes completely off script. Ours came when Shara's phone called it quits. No warning, no backup plan, just a broken phone in the middle of a foreign country. Lol. 

We had heard that Zhongli had a store selling affordable gadgets, so we decided to take our chances and find it, even though neither of us was entirely sure where we were going. We navigated, argued a little about directions, asked strangers for help, and eventually found our way. Next thing we knew is we walked out of that store with a brand new iPhone 17. 

Looking back, that unplanned detour to Zhongli ended up being one of the most memorable parts of the whole trip. It was stressful in the moment and absolutely hilarious in hindsight, which is basically the definition of a great travel story.

What it costs: more affordable than you think

For Filipino travelers, Taiwan is a surprisingly budget friendly destination. Direct flights from Manila to Taipei run regularly, with travel time at around two hours. Meals at local restaurants and night market stalls can cost as little as NT$50 to NT$150, roughly ₱80 to ₱240. Accommodation in Ximending is widely available across different budget ranges, making it easy to split costs with a travel companion.

The EasyCard, Taiwan's all in one transit card, is a MUST. It works on the MRT, buses, and at select convenience stores. Load it up on day one and keep it in your pocket at all times.

Tips before you go

Filipino passport holders do not need a visa to visit Taiwan, just fill out an arrival card upon entry and you are good to go. It is one of the most hassle-free destinations for Filipinos, which is another reason to just book the flight already. Travel insurance is still highly recommended, and it is wise to carry some New Taiwan Dollars in cash since not all smaller establishments accept cards.

Study the layout of Taipei Main Station before your trip. Download an offline map. Pack light layers because Taiwan's weather can shift from humid city heat to cool mountain breezes within the same day. And bring your most comfortable walking shoes. You are going to need them.

The verdict: go, and travel with Bestie

Taiwan rewards you for showing up. It does not ask for a perfect plan or a large budget. What it gives you in return is good food, stunning scenery, unexpected adventures, and memories you will still be laughing about years from now.

Shara and I came home with full stomachs, sore feet, a brand new iPhone 17, and a camera roll that barely does the trip justice. More than the sights and the food, what we brought back was the kind of shared memory that only travel can give you, the reminder that the best people in your life are worth exploring the world with.

Taiwan is worth it. Your best friend is worth it. And honestly, even getting lost at Taipei Main is worth it — as long as you are lost together.

Ang kasal sa ating bansa ay sagrada. Sa katunayan, walang diborsyo na tulad sa ibang bansa.

Subalit, naaayon din ba sa ating batas na maaaring piliting ng hukuman ang mag-asawa na huwag paghiwalayin?

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Bribery and embezzlement of public funds are the two leading types of corruption, according to a study conducted in the country.

In light of this, the Office of the Ombudsman will use the data as a basis for implementing reforms to further catch corrupt government officials.

Nanay Lourdes, an eatery owner, expressed her frustration over corrupt officials. 

"Those corrupt officials should be held accountable. The people are suffering. It's such a waste—instead of benefiting the people, it goes to the corrupt, into their pockets," she said.

["Yang mga kurap na yan, managot nang husto. Kawawa ang mga mamamayan e. JC: Talagang napakahirap imbis na mapakinabangan ng mga mamamayan, napunta sa mga kurakot.”]

News about corruption within government agencies has been widespread, particularly regarding flood control projects. The President himself has called out government officials who benefit from public funds.

President Marcos condemned those involved in corruption. 

"To those who conspire to take the people's funds and steal the future of our citizens—have some shame before your fellow Filipinos!" he said.

["Kaya sa mga nakikipagsabwatan, upang kunin ang pondo ng bayan at nakawin ang kinabukasan ng ating mga mamamayan. Mahiya naman kayo sa inyong kapwa Filipino!"]

According to a study conducted by OCTA Research among 1,200 Filipinos in December 2025, 73% believe bribery is the most prevalent form of corruption. This was followed by irregularities in the use of public funds at 66%, while vote buying ranked third at 62%.

Tatay Dante, a vendor in Quezon City, agreed with the survey results, saying he wasn't surprised as it matches what he often hears in the news alongside ongoing government investigations.

"It's all bribes and payoffs. Because if there were no bribes, no payments made, someone would speak up. But no one does. They must have been paid large amounts, so they stay silent," he said.

["Puro bayaran e, suhol. Kasi kung walang suhol yan, walang binayaran sa mga yan e, may magsasalita dyan e, kaso wala. Malalaki siguro ang binigay kaya tahimik."]

Nanay Lourdes called on authorities to strengthen their efforts against abuse of power. 

"Those officials involved in corruption should pay the price so our government can improve," she said.

["Dapat yang mga opisyal na yan na nasangkot sa mga korap pagbayaran nila para tumino ang ating pamahalaan."]

The Office of the Ombudsman itself commissioned the survey to serve as the basis for measures they will implement as an independent body focused on investigating and prosecuting government employees involved in corruption.

Assistant Ombudsman and Office of the Ombudsman Spokesperson Mico Clavano announced plans to revive the Resident Ombudsman program. 

"The immediate response of the office is to reactivate the Resident Ombudsman Program. This program essentially allows the Office of the Ombudsman to assign Resident Ombudsmen in vulnerable agencies where they will work on-site to serve as the repository of complaints as well as be the chief implementers of the programs instituted by the office," he said.

While the list of departments isn't final yet, Clavano said they will prioritize national agencies such as the Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

To maintain professionalism and avoid familiarity, there will be rotation in the deployment of Resident Ombudsmen to each agency. Clavano added that they will strengthen coordination with the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for these measures.

They will also continue commissioning additional surveys to serve as the basis for future reforms in the office.

With reports from Evan Alvarez