INQToday: VP Sara Duterte says probe vs Quiboloy is ‘trial by publicity’

Here’s a quick roundup of today’s top stories:

VP Sara Duterte says probe vs Quiboloy is ‘trial by publicity’

Vice President Sara Duterte branded as a mere “trial by publicity” the ongoing investigation of alleged sex offender and televangelist Apollo Quiboloy.

According to her, the inquiry is a form of “violence” which she claimed many believe is “unfair.” Duterte said accusations against the self-proclaimed “Appointed Son of God” should instead be brought to court.

China’s maritime-related proposals run contrary to PH interests–DFA

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Tuesday it had received several maritime-related proposals from China, but added they could not be considered because they were against the Philippines’ national interests.

The DFA said among the proposals from China was one where it “insisted on actions that would be deemed as acquiescence or recognition of China’s control and administration over the (Second Thomas Shoal)” and that the Philippines could not consider such a proposal “without violating the constitution or international law”.

Acting NFA chief also gets suspended over rice deal

The Office of the Ombudsman has suspended two more officials of the National Food Authority (NFA) amid an ongoing investigation into the allegedly anomalous sale of the government’s rice buffer stocks.

In a statement on Monday, the Department of Agriculture (DA) confirmed that recently appointed NFA officer in charge (OIC) Piolito Santos and Jonathan Yazon, acting department manager for operation and coordination, were also placed under preventive suspension in connection with the controversy.

Nesthy Petecio, Aira Villegas qualify for Paris Olympics boxing

Nesthy Petecio strongly feels that a silver medal in the previous 2020 Tokyo Olympics is not enough.

She earned the opportunity to upgrade that medal after claiming a spot in this year’s 2024 Paris Olympics.

Joining Petecio in Paris is compatriot Aira Villegas, who likewise secured an Olympic quota with a unanimous decision victory over Bulgaria’s Zlatislava Chukanova in the women’s 50kg.