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Mass protests in Manila on September 21 highlight public outrage over corruption linked to ghost flood-control projects. Demonstrations, coinciding with the anniversary of martial law, demand accountability amid revelations of political misconduct and government investigations. Violence and conflicting narratives have marked the events, with authorities and protesters at odds.
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On September 23, 2025, the ICC publicly released a redacted charge sheet accusing former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte of crimes against humanity involving 76 murders linked to his anti-drug campaign from 2013 to 2018. Duterte, detained in The Hague since March, faces three counts covering killings during his mayoralty and presidency. A court hearing was postponed pending assessment of his fitness for trial.
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Severe Tropical Storm Bualoi continues to impact the Philippines, causing evacuations, fatalities, and flooding. The storm is forecast to strengthen into a typhoon and head toward Vietnam. The Philippines also faces political fallout over flood control project corruption amid ongoing disaster response efforts.
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On Tuesday night, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck off northern Cebu island near Bogo city, killing at least 72 people and injuring nearly 300. The quake caused widespread damage to buildings, roads, and infrastructure, triggering landslides and power outages. Rescue efforts have concluded with all victims accounted for, while thousands remain displaced amid ongoing aftershocks.
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On October 12, 2025, a Chinese coast guard ship fired a water cannon and rammed the Philippine fisheries vessel BRP Datu Pagbuaya near Thitu Island in the disputed South China Sea. The Philippine crew was unharmed, but the vessel sustained minor damage. Both sides accuse each other of illegal incursions amid ongoing territorial disputes.
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Typhoon Kalmaegi caused at least 188 deaths across the Philippines and Vietnam, with record rainfall and flooding. The storm's increasing strength is linked to rising sea temperatures due to climate change. Multiple countries face ongoing damage, with authorities evacuating thousands and assessing widespread destruction.
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Protests erupted across Manila over a corruption scandal involving flood control projects, with allegations of kickbacks, substandard infrastructure, and political cover-ups. Authorities have arrested multiple suspects, including former lawmakers and construction executives, amid calls for accountability. The scandal has intensified political tensions and public outrage, with ongoing investigations and protests.
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Philippine President Marcos faces renewed scrutiny amid allegations from his sister Imee of drug use and ongoing corruption investigations into flood-control projects. Marcos dismisses the claims, which are linked to a broader anti-corruption drive and public protests over infrastructure scandals.