Jasha Gamao

Ako Bicol Partylist Representative Elizaldy "Zaldy" Co has tendered his irrevocable resignation from the House of Representatives, effective immediately, citing a "real, direct, grave and imminent threat" to the lives of himself and his family members.

The sudden decision comes on the heels of a political storm and an ultimatum from House Speaker Faustino ‘Bojie’ Dy III for Co to return home and face mounting accusations of massive corruption linked to alleged last-minute budget insertions and anomalous flood control projects. Co’s resignation, sent to Speaker Dy and the Committee on Ethics and Privileges, was submitted on the deadline set for his return.

In his resignation letter, Co also took the opportunity to fiercely deny all allegations raised against him by Navotas Representative Toby Tiangco.

Tiangco had filed a complaint alleging Co’s involvement in P13.8 billion worth of insertions in the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) and a violation of the Code of Conduct for public officials, including claims of an "extravagant and ostentatious display of wealth." Co categorically denied any hand in budget manipulation and also refuted claims of receiving any pecuniary interest from infrastructure projects linked to his former company, Sunwest, Inc.

The former House Appropriations Committee chairman defended his continued absence from the country, stating that he continues to render public service remotely and that his travels for medical reasons were approved during his term.

While his resignation effectively halts the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges' jurisdiction over the complaints, Co emphasized he is reserving his right to address the "sham and baseless accusations" at a more appropriate time and forum. The Ako Bicol Partylist is expected to name a new nominee to immediately take his vacant seat in the House.

The move has surprised many in the House, with Speaker Dy acknowledging the resignation and stating that the chamber will now focus on passing the 2026 national budget.

However, both Dy and Ethics Committee Chairperson Jonathan Clement Abalos stressed that while the House's jurisdiction has ended, Co is not exempt from accountability and should still return to the country to face potential criminal charges that may be filed by the Department of Justice or the Independent Commission for Infrastructure. The resignation, therefore, shifts the battleground from the political arena of Congress to the legal halls of justice.

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MANILA - The hardwood of Paco Arena was ablaze with high-stakes basketball action on September 24, 2025, as the UNTV Cup Executive Face Off 2025 semifinals culminated in an intense double-header. The dust has settled, and with two commanding victories, the undefeated AFP Cavaliers and the relentless Judiciary Magis have officially punched their tickets to the championship round, setting the stage for a highly anticipated final showdown. The two dominant forces of the league will now battle for the coveted title and the biggest prize for their respective chosen charities.

The AFP Cavaliers maintained their flawless campaign with a decisive victory in Game 1 against the Ombudsman Graftbusters. From tip-off, the Cavaliers showcased the tactical discipline and superior firepower that have made them an unstoppable force this season. They suffocated the Graftbusters' offense, limiting them to a meager 47 points while posting a strong 66 points of their own. 

This dominant 66-47 win solidifies the Cavaliers' status as a prime contender and sends a chilling message to their final opponent: they are coming into the championship series with an unblemished record and a clear intent to claim the gold.

The second match of the night was a heart-stopping thriller, but the Judiciary Magis ultimately prevailed over the tenacious BJMP Greyhounds. Unlike the first game's blowout, this contest was a fierce, defensive battle fought down to the wire. 

The Magis had to dig deep, but their clutch performance in the final moments secured a hard-fought 65-62 victory. This win was a testament to the Magis' composure under pressure, demonstrating their ability to grind out wins when it matters most—a crucial quality they will need against the mighty Cavaliers in the finals.

With both the AFP Cavaliers and the Judiciary Magis boasting identical 2-0 records in the semifinals, the championship is guaranteed to be a clash of titans. The Ombudsman Graftbusters and the BJMP Greyhounds, despite their valiant efforts, finish their spectacular run with 0-2 records, falling just short of the final dance. However, their respective journeys were marked by dedication and excellent play, honoring the league’s core mission of "Win in Sports, Win for Charity."

The stage is now perfectly set for a colossal, epic battle between the last two teams standing. The undefeated AFP Cavaliers, hungry to add another title to their rich history, will face the equally determined Judiciary Magis, who have proven they can withstand any challenge. 

Fans can expect a furious, intense, and high-octane championship series as these two powerhouse teams go head-to-head. Get ready for an UNTV Cup Executive Face Off final that promises to be nothing short of legendary!

Game 1 of the UNTV Cup EFO 2025 Finals will be on October 8, 2025 at the Amoranto Arena, Quezon City. Make sure to be there and don’t miss the live championship action.

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The UNTV Cup Executive Face Off 2025 semifinals kicked off with a bang at the Novadeci Convention Center in Quezon City on September 21, 2025, as the Judiciary Magis and AFP Cavaliers asserted their dominance by winning their first games in the round-robin format. The two powerhouse teams demonstrated why they are top contenders, delivering exciting performances that set a high standard for the rest of the series.

The Judiciary Magis showed their tenacity against the Ombudsman Graftbusters in a hard-fought game. The Magis were led by the impressive play of Julius Java, who was named one of the "Best Players of the Game." Java showcased his all-around talent, contributing 21 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 steals. His leadership and clutch performance helped the Judiciary secure a crucial victory, putting them in a strong position early in the semifinals.

Meanwhile, the AFP Cavaliers, known for their strong lineup and cohesive play, faced off against the BJMP Greyhounds. The Cavaliers' victory was powered by the stellar performance of Emeterio Armada, who also earned the title of "Best Player of the Game." Armada was a force to be reckoned with, racking up 18 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals. His offensive firepower and defensive hustle were key to the Cavaliers' success, proving that their path to the finals is a formidable one.

The action is just getting started, and the race to the finals is wide open. You can catch the next games live and witness the intense competition as these public servants battle it out for their chosen charities. 

Don't miss a single moment of the action! Be sure to follow UNTV's social media accounts to stay updated on game schedules, results, and other exciting news from the UNTV Cup Executive Face Off 2025.

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MANILA, Philippines — The Mall of Asia Arena was buzzing with anticipation as Alas Pilipinas faced off against powerhouse Iran in a do-or-die match at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship. Despite a heartbreaking five-set loss (21-25, 25-21, 17-25, 25-23, 22-20), the Philippine team showed the heart and fighting spirit of a true champion, pushing the world's 16th-ranked team to their absolute limit. The atmosphere was electric, with a home crowd that roared its support, turning every point into a spectacle of national pride. 

The game was a rollercoaster of emotions. Alas Pilipinas, already having made history with their first-ever win against Egypt, came into the match with nothing to lose and everything to prove. They played with an incredible fearlessness, taking the first set and then the third, showing that their previous victory was no fluke. The team, led by stars like Bryan Bagunas and Leo Ordiales, executed brilliant plays and showed a defensive tenacity that belied their underdog status. Every dig, every block, and every powerful spike was a testament to their unwavering determination.

Iran, a perennial Asian powerhouse, was visibly stunned by the young Philippine squad's relentless attack. They had to dig deep into their reserves of skill and experience to force a deciding fifth set. The final frame was a nail-biter, a back-and-forth exchange of points that had everyone on the edge of their seats. The Filipinos even thought they had won on a dramatic block, only for a net violation to be called on review. That moment, while painful, did not define their performance; it only highlighted the narrow margin separating a historic win from an honorable defeat.

While Alas Pilipinas will not be advancing to the Round of 16, their performance against Iran will be remembered as a turning point for Philippine men's volleyball. Coach Angiolino Frigoni expressed immense pride in his team, stating that they had already exceeded all expectations. This campaign was not just about wins and losses; it was about showing the world that Filipino athletes have the potential to compete at the highest level. The courage and passion displayed by Alas Pilipinas have ignited a new hope for the sport in the country and proven that they are more than just hosts—they are contenders.Central Visayas Wage Hike, Effective October 4, 2025

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QUEZON CITY - The House Infrastructure Committee is expected to unexpectedly halt its hearings into alleged anomalous infrastructure projects, a decision stemming from a directive by former House Speaker Martin Romualdez according to the newly appointed House Deputy Speaker—Iloilo First District Representative Janet Garin. 

The move, which came before Romualdez officially stepped down from his position, was communicated to all political parties and House leaders. This marks a significant turn in the ongoing investigation about the future of accountability for these projects.

“Meron ng parang consultation and later on direktiba galing kay Speaker Martin Romualdez na ihinto niyo na yan.” House Deputy Speaker Janet Garin said in an interview.

The decision to pause the hearings is directly linked to the recent establishment of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI). The new body is expected to take over the investigation and implement safeguards against future anomalies. 

House Deputy Speaker Garin also added that according to then speaker Romualdez the hearing should be stopped "unless there are legislative measures to create safeguards to prevent a similar situation from happening again."

As the new House Speaker, Representative Faustino “Bonjie” Dy III takes on his new role, all eyes are on him to see how he will handle the directive. His actions, or lack thereof, are expected to set the tone for how the new leadership will approach the issue of infrastructure project oversight. 

The public and various political figures await his decision, hopeful for a resolution that ensures transparency and accountability in the nation’s infrastructure development.

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