Welcome to The Manila Times, where we bring you stories that shape our world.
Today is December 26th.
Our top story:
Rossana Fajardo has resigned as commissioner of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI). Fajardo says her courtesy resignation would be effective until December 31, 2025. She believes that she has completed her work. According to Fajardo, the investigative and prosecutorial responsibilities will now transition to other agencies such as the Justice Department and the Office of the Ombudsman. She says these agencies are in a better position to ensure accountability for those implicated in the flood control project controversy.
Read more: https://tmt.news/2249599
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson is calling for a genuine, inter-agency investigation into allegations linking several Cabinet officials to budget insertions for DPWH projects. He warns that prematurely dismissing the claims could be perceived by the public as a cover-up. Lacson says Malacañang should not hastily brand the allegations as mere hearsay. His remarks came in response to statements made by Palace Press Officer Claire Castro. Castro said the Palace would only respond to allegations supported by documents officially authenticated by the DPWH.
Gasoline and diesel prices are expected to increase next week. According to local oil industry sources, gasoline prices could either have no adjustments or go up by 10 centavos per liter. Diesel prices, meanwhile, could increase by about 30 to 50 centavos per liter.
Read more: https://tmt.news/2249620
California was hit with another powerful storm on Christmas Day. The new storm came as the state was still recovering from mudslides caused by days of relentless rain. It prompted authorities to issue an evacuation warning for the town of Wrightwood a day after rescuing people trapped in cars during a mudslide. Wrightwood is a mountain town about 130 kilometers northeast of Los Angeles. Heavy rain and fierce winds were blamed for at least two deaths. Areas along the coast, including Malibu, were under a flood watch. Wind and flood advisories were issued for the Sacramento Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Read more: https://tmt.news/2249612
Seven persons were arrested during a police crackdown on indiscriminate firing. Four of those arrested were police officers. The PNP’s intensified monitoring of indiscriminate firing was conducted from December 16 to 26. The PNP Public Information Office says it will not tolerate violations committed by its own personnel. The erring officers will face administrative and criminal charges.
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