Unang Balita sa Unang Hirit: AUGUST 13, 2025 [HD]

TLDR;

This news report covers several key events: controversies surrounding flood control projects and contractors, security measures in schools, traffic violations, and tensions in the West Philippine Sea. It includes reactions from government officials and detailed accounts of incidents, providing a comprehensive overview of current issues.

• Flood control projects and contractors face scrutiny, with allegations of irregularities and political connections.
• Increased security measures are implemented in schools following incidents of violence.
• Traffic authorities conduct inspections, catching drivers with violations.
• Tensions escalate in the West Philippine Sea due to actions by Chinese vessels, prompting diplomatic protests.

Flood Control Project Controversies [0:38]

President Marcos identified 15 contractors involved in flood control projects worth billions. Sun West Incorporated received the most projects, totaling 78 and valued at over 10 billion. GMA Integrated News Research linked Sun West to past controversies, including a 2012 road project where the width exceeded reported measurements. The company also supplied PPE during the pandemic and was implicated in overpriced laptop purchases for DepEd. Legacy Construction Corporation, another major recipient with 132 projects worth over a billion, had reportedly moved its office before 2020. Alpha and Omega General Contractor and Development Corporation and St. Timothy Construction Corporation share an office address, with Sarah Discaya, president of Alpha and Omega, having run for Pasig City Mayor. EGB Construction Corporation, holding Quadruple A status, affirmed its compliance with project plans and specifications.

Senate President Escudero's Alleged Involvement [3:42]

Center Construction and Development Inc. secured over 5 billion in flood control projects. Senate President Chese Escodero acknowledged his friendship with the company's president, Lawrence Lubiano, but denied Lubiano was his biggest donor in the 2022 elections. Escudero refuted insinuations of involvement in project identification, bidding, or awarding. He suggested the allegations were part of a demolition job linked to those pushing for Vice President Sarah Duterte's impeachment. House Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno criticized blanket accusations in Congress. President Marcos is reportedly looking into the cornering of projects by several companies. Roland Simbulan of OENPEG noted that flood control projects are prone to corruption due to monitoring difficulties. DPW Secretary Manny Bonoan admitted challenges in verifying implemented projects.

VP Duterte's Travel and Palace Response [7:22]

Palace Press Officer Under Secretary Claire Castro responded to Vice President Sarah Duterte's statement about her travel abroad. Duterte claimed she was traveling because Filipino communities abroad are frustrated with the situation in the country. Castro stated that traveling is not the solution to the country's problems and that it is not the Vice President's role to discredit the President or incite the removal of the President from office.

Increased School Security Measures [8:11]

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) ordered barangay guards to increase security in public schools following incidents of violence. In Mandaluyong, barangay guards patrolled schools, directing traffic and monitoring students. The added security was welcomed by parents concerned about their children's safety. Guards are focusing on preventing fights and bullying often started by loitering groups of students.

Traffic Violations and Inspections [11:05]

Authorities in Quezon City conducted random inspections, catching public transport drivers and a motorcycle rider with violations. These included broken brake lights, unauthorized improvised plates, substandard helmets, and driving with slippers. Drivers' licenses were confiscated, and temporary operator's permits (TOPs) were issued. Passengers experienced minor disruptions but understood the importance of the inspections for safety. Violators are required to visit the Land Transportation Office to settle their violations.

West Philippine Sea Incident and Diplomatic Protests [13:16]

The Department of Foreign Affairs is preparing a new diplomatic protest following the pursuit of a Philippine Coast Guard ship by Chinese ships in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippine Navy reported that Chinese ships attempted a pincer move against the PCG's BRP Suluan, resulting in collisions. The PCG offered assistance to the Chinese Coast Guard but received no response. AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Bronner Jr. believes the Chinese ships intentionally tried to collide with the BRP Suluan. The DFA is concerned about dangerous patrolling by Chinese ships and obstruction of assistance to Filipino fishermen. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro dismissed China's claims as blatant lies. The BRP Suluan returned to Manila for fuel and supplies, while BRP Teresa Magbanua is positioned near Baho de Masinlok. The Philippine Navy confirmed a warship was present but adhered to rules of engagement, using force only for self-defense within international and domestic law.