Here’s a quick roundup of today’s top stories:
PH, US ‘working overtime’ to seal intel-sharing pact
The Philippines and the United States have agreed to fast-track the long-delayed conclusion of a crucial intelligence-sharing agreement before the end of the year, Manila’s ambassador to Washington said on Wednesday, amid shared concerns over an increasingly assertive China.
The renewed push to seal a General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) within the year was one of the outcomes of a meeting between senior Filipino and American officials in Washington this week, Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez said in a press briefing here.
2nd ‘Atin Ito’ voyage to plant PH markers in Masinloc
A group pressing for the defense of Philippine sovereign rights over the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea against China’s encroachment is planning a voyage to Bajo de Masinloc to plant markers and deliver supplies to Filipino fishers in their traditional fishing ground next month.
Akbayan president Rafaela David, coconvener of Atin Ito, said her group would lead a “peace and solidarity regatta” of up to 100 fishing boats from Zambales province to the shoal, also known as Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal, about 220 kilometers away on May 15.
DOJ seeks hold departure order vs fugitive Quiboloy
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has requested the issuance of a hold departure order (HDO) against televangelist Apollo Quiboloy to ensure that he cannot leave the country and evade prosecution for his crimes.
Two local courts in Davao City and Pasig City have already ordered the arrest of the founder and leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) for alleged human trafficking and violation of the Anti-Child Abuse Law (Republic Act No. 7610).
Metro Manila, 31 other areas to have dangerous heat index on Friday
Metro Manila and 31 other areas in the country are seen to experience temperatures in the dangerous heat index range on Friday, according to the state weather bureau.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration’s (Pagasa) weather station in Pasay City projected a heat index of 43 °C, while its station in Quezon City has a forecast of 42°C.