Philippine Daily Inquirer
Sandigan orders trial of Binays to proceed
The Sandiganbayan has greenlighted the trial of former Vice President Jejomar Binay after finding sufficient basis on the alleged irregularities during his stint as Makati mayor. The former vice president, as well as his son, Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr., 17 other city officials, and two private prisons could be charged of the crimes of malversation, falsification of public documents and violation of Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
Manila Bulletin
No whitewash, Palace vows
Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella assured that authorities will carry out a fair and comprehensive probe on the death of 19-year-old Carl Angelo Arnaiz, who was allegedly tortured before being killed by policemen. Department of Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II instructed the National Bureau of Investigation to “conduct [probe] and case build-up over the killing of Arnaiz and if evidence warrants, to file appropriate charges thereon”.
Philippine Star
Carl fired shot, killed while lying down—PNP
Reports from the Philippine National Police claimed that 19-year-old Carl Angelo Arnaiz fired a gun at policemen who fired back. National Capital Regional Police Office chief Director Oscar Albayalde said Arnaiz was tested positive for gunpowder, which indicates that he had fired a gun. Arnaiz’s relatives downplayed the allegations, noting that he had never touched a gun, except a toy gun.
The Manila Times
70% of illegal drugs slip past Customs
Newly-minted Bureau of Customs (BOC) commissioner Isidro Lapeña bared that the agency was unable to halt most of illegal drug shipment operations. He said 70 percent of illegal drugs that enter country through various seaports. He also vowed to disable the use of ports as entry points in the country, which could result in the supply of illegal drugs by 70 percent.