Saturday, April 25, 2026


Your Daily News Update About CALABARZON and Beyond.
ISSN 2799-1911

Home Blog Page 2

Romualdez itinanggi ang papel sa graft sa 2025 budget; itinuro sina Escudero at Co

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
-
0
Romualdez itinanggi ang papel sa graft sa 2025 budget; itinuro sina Escudero at Co

MAYNILA — Itinanggi ni Leyte Representative at dating House Speaker Martin Romualdez ang anumang pagkakasangkot sa umano’y katiwalian kaugnay ng 2025 national budget. Iginiit na walang ebidensiya na magpapatunay na siya ay sangkot sa “plunder, conspiracy to commit plunder, or any similar offense that the Ombudsman may be contemplating against me.”

Naglabas ng video statement si Romualdez matapos ihayag ng Office of the Ombudsman na humiling ito sa Sandiganbayan na maglabas ng preventive hold departure order laban sa kanya.

Ayon kay Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, tinanggihan ang kahilingan ni Romualdez na bumiyahe patungong Singapore para sa medical check-up, sa gitna ng umiiral na lookout order laban sa mga iniimbestigahan.

Isinasailalim sa imbestigasyon si Romualdez kaugnay ng umano’y plunder at money laundering na may kinalaman sa mga proyektong pang-imprastraktura ng pamahalaan.

Bilang tugon, sinabi ni Romualdez na pahihintulutan niyang ilabas sa publiko ang kanyang affidavit at mga kalakip na dokumento upang aniya ay makita ng mamamayan kung sino ang naging transparent at kung sino ang umano’y may motibong pulitikal.

“How can I be the mastermind? I was the former Speaker of the House of Representatives. But the House of Representatives is only part of one branch of government: the legislature,” ani Romualdez.

Iginiit din niya na kung siya ang utak ng anomalya, dapat ay nakinabang ang kanyang distrito sa Tacloban, ngunit wala umanong “ghost project” doon. Hinamon pa niya ang publiko na suriin ang lahat ng proyektong maiuugnay sa kanya.

Dagdag pa niya, hindi siya bahagi ng bicameral conference committee at ng tinatawag na small committee kung saan umano isinagawa ang mga “insertions” sa badyet.

“With respect to how the budget was deliberated in Congress, let me say this categorically: I was not a part of the BiCam and the Small Committee budget deliberations,” aniya.

Sa halip, itinuro ni Romualdez sina Francis Escudero at Zaldy Co bilang may mahalagang papel sa paghubog ng mga desisyon sa badyet. Wala pang pahayag ang kanilang kampo sa oras ng paglalathala.

Binigyang-diin din ni Romualdez na ang “command responsibility” sa implementasyon ng badyet ay nasa ehekutibong sangay ng pamahalaan.

“If corruption were to occur on the scale alleged in recent months, it is clear that it would not happen at the level of general legislative approval alone. It happens at the level of execution of the General Appropriations Act,” aniya.

Samantala, ipinaliwanag ni Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano na ang paghingi ng hold departure order ay bahagi ng hakbang upang matiyak na hindi makakaiwas sa proseso ang respondent habang nakabinbin ang reklamo.

“They do not want the respondent to abscond and evade office processes,” ani Clavano.

Inihayag din ng Ombudsman na inindorso na sa Anti-Money Laundering Council ang reklamo upang hilingin ang freeze order sa mga ari-arian ni Romualdez, bagamat aminado si Remulla na hindi ito madaling makamit dahil sa lakas ng legal na depensa ng kampo ng mambabatas.

Sa panig ng kampo ni Romualdez, sinabi ng kanyang abogado na si Atty. Ade Fajardo na wala pang pormal na aplikasyon para sa freeze order at wala ring nakabinbing kaso laban sa kanyang kliyente sa kasalukuyan.

“Representative Romualdez sought travel authority in all good faith and this authority has been granted. This underscores his full compliance with the law and negates any insinuation of flight risk,” ani Fajardo.

Binigyang-diin din niya na ang anumang pahayag tungkol sa mga kasong “inihahanda pa lamang” ay hindi nangangahulugan ng aktuwal na prosekusyon.

Sa kabila ng mga akusasyon, tiniyak ni Romualdez na haharapin niya ang mga ito sa tamang proseso at hindi siya papayag na gawing “scapegoat.”

“I will not be the fall guy for other people’s corruption,” aniya.

Trump says US open to extending Iran ceasefire after Pakistan request

EDGARDO HERNAL
-
0
Trump says US open to extending Iran ceasefire after Pakistan request

WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump signaled a shift in tone, saying the United States is open to extending its ceasefire with Iran following a request from Pakistan, even as he maintained a generally hardline stance on the conflict.

In an interview with CNBC, Trump initially said he was not inclined to prolong the truce, emphasizing that time was limited and that Washington was negotiating from a position of strength. “I don’t want to do that. We don’t have that much time,” he said when asked about extending the ceasefire.

However, Trump later indicated that the US may consider an extension after Pakistan appealed for more time to facilitate talks, underscoring Islamabad’s growing role in ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Negotiations are expected to take place in Islamabad, where Pakistani officials have positioned the country as a neutral venue aimed at reviving stalled dialogue and preventing further escalation. A senior Iranian official said Tehran is still weighing its participation, leaving uncertainty over whether talks will proceed as planned.

Despite the possible extension, Trump reiterated that military action remains an option if no agreement is reached. “I expect to be bombing because I think that’s a better attitude to go in with. But we’re ready to go. I mean, the military is raring to go,” he said.

Recent diplomatic signals point to a fragile and fluid situation. Analysts say the proposed talks are part of a broader push involving multiple stakeholders to de-escalate tensions that could disrupt global energy markets and regional stability.

With both sides maintaining firm positions and no formal schedule finalized, the outcome of the talks remains uncertain, raising concerns over a potential resumption of hostilities if negotiations collapse.

Japan raises quake risk advisory after 7.7-magnitude offshore tremor near Iwate

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
-
0
Japan raises quake risk advisory after 7.7-magnitude offshore tremor near Iwate

TOKYO — Authorities in Japan issued a special earthquake advisory on April 20 following a powerful offshore tremor that struck the country’s northeast and briefly triggered tsunami warnings.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the earthquake, initially measured at magnitude 7.4 and later upgraded to 7.7, occurred at 4:53 p.m. local time in Pacific waters off Iwate Prefecture. The quake was strong enough to sway buildings in Tokyo, located hundreds of kilometers from the epicenter.

In an advisory issued hours later, the agency warned that “the likelihood of a new, huge earthquake occurring is relatively higher than during normal times,” while clarifying that the notice reflects elevated risk rather than a specific prediction.

Local governments in affected areas issued non-mandatory evacuation advisories to more than 182,000 residents, according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency. About 40 minutes after the quake, an 80-centimeter tsunami wave was recorded at a port in Kuji, also in Iwate.

By late evening, tsunami warnings for waves of up to one meter were downgraded to advisories across parts of northeastern Japan, including Hokkaido, Aomori Prefecture, Iwate, and Fukushima Prefecture. These advisories were fully lifted around midnight, according to Kyodo News.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said there were no immediate reports of serious injuries or significant damage. Initial footage from NHK showed no visible destruction in several coastal areas, though officials cautioned that aftershocks could continue over the coming week, particularly within the next two to three days.

The International Atomic Energy Agency reported no abnormalities at nuclear facilities. Utility operators, including Tohoku Electric Power, said they were conducting inspections, including at the Onagawa nuclear plant. No nuclear plants are currently operational in the Hokkaido and Tohoku regions.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said a crisis management team had been activated to assess potential damage and coordinate response efforts. “For those of you who live in areas for which the warnings have been issued, please evacuate to higher, safer places,” she said.

Transport services were also disrupted, with bullet train operations in Aomori temporarily suspended due to the tremors.

As of April 21, authorities have reported a series of minor aftershocks in the affected region, but no escalation to a major event. Infrastructure inspections are ongoing, and transport services have largely resumed. Officials continue to urge residents to remain vigilant and review emergency preparedness measures.

Japan remains one of the most seismically active countries in the world, located along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where several tectonic plates converge. The country experiences around 1,500 earthquakes annually, accounting for roughly 18 percent of global seismic activity.

Memories of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, which killed or left missing about 18,500 people and triggered the Fukushima nuclear crisis, continue to shape disaster preparedness policies.

Authorities have also previously warned of the potential for a major earthquake along the Nankai Trough, a zone capable of generating a devastating quake and tsunami. Government estimates suggest such an event could result in up to 298,000 deaths and economic losses reaching $2 trillion.

Officials reiterated that while the probability of a larger quake remains low, heightened caution is necessary in the days following a major seismic event.

Bus nahulog sa bangin sa Quezon; 2 patay, 39 ang sugatan

Arman B. Cambe
-
0
Bus nahulog sa bangin sa Quezon; 2 patay, 39 ang sugatan

LUCENA CITY – Dalawa ang kumpirmadong patay habang umabot na sa hindi bababa sa 39 hanggang 41 ang sugatan matapos mahulog sa bangin ang isang pampasaherong bus ng DLTBCo sa Pagbilao, Quezon noong gabi ng Abril 20, ayon sa mga pinakahuling ulat mula sa mga awtoridad at initial reports.

Sa inisyal na imbestigasyon, bandang alas-otso ng gabi nang mangyari ang aksidente sa Barangay Silangang Malicboy. Ang bus na biyaheng Bicol patungong Maynila ay nawalan umano ng kontrol bago tuluyang sumemplang at mahulog sa malalim na bangin sa gilid ng kalsada.

Naging kumplikado ang rescue operations dahil sa dilim, matarik na lugar, at hirap ng access sa pinangyarihan ng aksidente. Ayon sa mga responder, kinailangan ng mahabang oras bago maiahon ang mga pasahero mula sa pagkakasadsad ng bus.

Agad na isinugod sa iba’t ibang ospital sa Lucena City ang mga sugatan para sa agarang gamutan, habang patuloy ang monitoring sa ilang nasa malubhang kondisyon.

Sa ngayon, wala pang inilalabas na opisyal na pagkakakilanlan ng mga nasawi at ilang sugatan habang isinasagawa pa ang beripikasyon ng mga awtoridad at koordinasyon sa mga pamilya.

Patuloy ang imbestigasyon ng pulisya at mga transport regulators upang matukoy ang sanhi ng aksidente, kabilang ang posibleng mechanical failure, over-speeding, o human error.

Nanawagan naman ang mga awtoridad sa mga transport operators na higpitan ang regular na safety inspection at maintenance ng mga sasakyan upang maiwasan ang kahalintulad na trahedya.

Louisiana father kills 8 of his children in Shreveport domestic shooting spree

EDGARDO HERNAL
-
0
Louisiana father kills 8 of his children in Shreveport domestic shooting spree

SHREVEPORT, La. — A Louisiana father killed eight children, including seven of his own, in a shooting that spanned two homes in a Shreveport neighborhood on Sunday morning, in what authorities described as a domestic-related attack that has left the community in shock.

Police said two women, including the gunman’s wife and mother of several of the children, were also shot and critically wounded. The children who died were all inside the same house and ranged in age from 3 to 11 years old.

The suspect was identified as 31-year-old Shamar Elkins. He later died after a police pursuit that ended in an exchange of gunfire with responding officers, according to Shreveport Police spokesperson Chris Bordelon.

Authorities said the attack began before sunrise when Elkins shot a woman at one residence, then drove to a second home where the killings took place. Seven children were found dead inside the house, while another child was discovered on the roof after apparently attempting to escape. One child who jumped from the roof survived and was taken to a hospital.

Police said the victims were three boys and five girls, according to the Caddo Parish Coroner’s office.

Officials said they believe the incident was entirely domestic in nature, although they have not publicly detailed a specific motive. Bordelon noted that Elkins had a prior arrest in a 2019 firearms case but no known recent domestic violence reports.

Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said investigators were struggling to comprehend the scale of the tragedy. “I just don’t know what to say, my heart is just taken aback,” he said. “I cannot begin to imagine how such an event could occur.”

Relatives said the couple was in the process of separating and was scheduled to appear in court the following day. Crystal Brown, a cousin of one of the wounded women, said family tensions had escalated before the shooting.

“He murdered his children. He shot his wife,” Brown said.

Brown added that Elkins had children with two women, and that all the children were gathered at one of the homes at the time of the attack. She described the children as friendly and happy.

Neighbors reported hearing gunfire and seeing the suspect flee the scene. Liza Demming, who lives nearby, said her security camera captured footage of a man running from the house followed by the sound of gunshots. She later saw a child’s body covered on the roof of the residence.

Pastor Marty T. Johnson Sr., whose church is near the area, said one of the homes involved was rented out through a tenant arrangement, though he had no direct dealings with the family.

Authorities said the incident involved multiple crime scenes and remains under investigation. Officials described the case as one of the most severe acts of domestic violence the city has faced in recent years.

“This is a tragic situation, maybe the worst tragic situation we’ve ever had,” said Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux. “It’s a terrible morning.”

As the investigation continued, residents gathered near the scene, leaving flowers and holding a candlelight vigil for the victims. Community members expressed grief and disbelief over the loss of young lives.

“It just makes you take your children and hug them and hold them and tell them how much you love them,” one mourner said.

Authorities have not released further updates on the surviving victims or the ongoing investigation.

Iran considers joining peace talks as Pakistan works to end U.S. blockade, source says

Venus L Peñaflor
-
0
Iran considers joining peace talks as Pakistan works to end U.S. blockade, source says

DUBAI, April 20 — Iran is considering participating in upcoming peace talks with the United States in Pakistan, according to a senior Iranian official, following efforts by Islamabad to address a key obstacle, the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports.

The official, who spoke to Reuters on Monday, said Tehran was “positively reviewing” the possibility of joining negotiations but emphasized that no final decision has been made. The shift in tone marks a departure from earlier statements in which Iran ruled out participation and warned of retaliation against U.S. actions.

Pakistan has been actively mediating between the two sides, with the Iranian official noting that Islamabad’s efforts to lift the blockade could pave the way for Iran’s involvement in the talks.

The developments come as a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran approaches its expiration. The truce, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on April 7, is expected to end within days, although no exact timeline has been formally confirmed. A Pakistani source involved in the negotiations said the ceasefire could expire late Tuesday evening U.S. time.

Tensions have remained high despite the temporary halt in hostilities. The situation escalated after the United States reportedly seized an Iranian cargo vessel attempting to bypass the blockade, prompting Tehran to vow retaliation.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei criticized Washington, saying it had demonstrated a lack of seriousness in pursuing diplomacy and continued to insist on “unreasonable and unrealistic positions.” He reiterated that Iran would not alter its core demands, including its stance that its defensive capabilities, particularly its missile program, are non-negotiable.

A Pakistani security source said Field Marshal Asim Munir, a key mediator in the talks, had raised concerns directly with President Trump, describing the blockade as a major impediment to negotiations. Trump reportedly indicated he would consider the advice but maintained that the blockade would remain in place.

In parallel, military tensions have continued at sea. The U.S. military said it disabled an Iranian-flagged cargo ship near Iran’s Bandar Abbas port after a prolonged standoff, while Tehran accused Washington of “armed piracy” and warned of possible confrontation.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, has also been affected. Iran briefly lifted and then reinstated its own restrictions on the waterway, leading to sharply reduced maritime traffic. Shipping data indicated minimal vessel movement over a recent 12-hour period, contributing to volatility in global oil prices.

China, a major buyer of Iranian crude, expressed concern over the maritime incident and called for the resumption of normal shipping through the strait. Chinese President Xi Jinping urged all parties to pursue a diplomatic resolution to the conflict.

Meanwhile, President Trump reiterated his hardline stance, warning that the United States could target key Iranian infrastructure if Tehran rejects U.S. terms. Iran has responded by stating it would retaliate against infrastructure in neighboring Gulf states hosting U.S. bases in the event of such attacks.

Vice President JD Vance is expected to arrive in Islamabad leading a U.S. delegation for the next round of talks, which follow an initial meeting held last week involving senior U.S. officials.

Pakistan has intensified security measures in preparation, deploying nearly 20,000 personnel across the capital. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, significant differences remain, particularly over Iran’s nuclear program and regional security concerns.

European allies have also expressed concern that the U.S. may be pushing for a rapid agreement without resolving complex technical issues that could require extended negotiations.

The broader conflict, which began on February 28, has resulted in thousands of casualties amid U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and a parallel Israeli military campaign in Lebanon. Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and U.S.-aligned positions in the region.

As the ceasefire deadline nears, uncertainty remains over whether diplomatic efforts can prevent a renewed escalation.

U.S. and allies begin joint drills in Philippines as China raises objections

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
-
0
U.S. and allies begin joint drills in Philippines as China raises objections

MANILA, Philippines — The United States and the Philippines on Monday launched one of their largest joint military exercises, reinforcing their alliance in a show of deterrence amid rising tensions in the region and ongoing global security challenges.

The annual Balikatan exercises, which means “shoulder-to-shoulder” in Filipino, will involve more than 17,000 troops from both countries and run for nearly three weeks. The drills will feature simulated combat scenarios and live-fire exercises in strategic locations, including areas facing the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait.

This year’s exercises have expanded to include Japan and Canada as full-time participants, following their visiting forces agreements with Manila, according to Philippine military officials. Japan is deploying approximately 1,400 personnel, marking its largest participation since previously joining as an observer.

Nearly 10,000 U.S. troops are taking part, underscoring Washington’s continued military commitment to the Indo-Pacific despite its engagement in other global conflicts.

“Regardless of the challenges elsewhere in the world, the United States focus on the Indo-Pacific and our ironclad commitment to the Philippines remains unwavering,” Marine Lt. Gen. Christian Wortman said during the opening ceremony.

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner said the exercises aim to strengthen deterrence and improve readiness against potential threats, while also enhancing the allies’ ability to respond to natural disasters. Although he did not name any country, Brawner has previously criticized China’s increasingly assertive actions in contested waters.

China, which claims nearly the entire South China Sea, has objected to the drills, warning that the presence of foreign forces could heighten tensions in the region. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the Asia-Pacific region needs stability and cautioned against actions that could lead to confrontation.

The Philippines, along with Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan, maintains competing claims in the South China Sea, a vital global trade route. Encounters between Chinese and Filipino vessels have intensified in recent years.

The United States has repeatedly reaffirmed its defense commitments to the Philippines under their mutual defense treaty, stating it would respond in the event of an armed attack on Philippine forces in disputed areas.

“We remain guided by a shared commitment to uphold international law, to respect sovereignty and to contribute to a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Brawner said.

As part of the drills, Japanese forces are expected to conduct missile exercises from Ilocos Norte targeting a simulated enemy vessel offshore, while U.S. forces will deploy explosive-laden marine drones in coordinated operations.

The expanded scope of this year’s Balikatan highlights growing security cooperation among U.S. allies in the region, as concerns persist over maritime disputes and freedom of navigation in key international waters.

Magtatakda ng limitasyon ang gobyerno sa taas-baba ng presyo ng gasolina

Venus L Peñaflor
-
0
Magtatakda ng limitasyon ang gobyerno sa taas-baba ng presyo ng gasolina

MAYNILA – Ipinag-utos na sa mga oil company na sumunod sa itinakdang minimum at maximum na halaga ng gobyerno para sa paggalaw ng presyo ng produktong petrolyo sa gitna ng idineklarang state of national energy emergency, ayon kay Energy Secretary Sharon Garin noong Lunes.

Sa isang press briefing, ipinaliwanag ni Garin na ang patakaran ay sang-ayon sa Executive Order No. 110 na nilagdaan ni Pangulong Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. na nagdedeklara ng national energy emergency.

“Because of that declaration, it triggered the additional powers from government to prescribe the price. Hindi tayo nagka-cap sa presyo mismo, pero kina-cap natin ‘yung adjustments,” ani Garin.

“So under that issuance, DOE is now subscribing to the price increase limitation. May limit na tayo, may minimum na tayo rollback tapos may maximum din tayo sa price increase. So both ways,” dagdag niya.

Batay sa anunsyo ng ilang kumpanya ng langis, epektibo ngayong Martes, Abril 21, 2026, bababa ang presyo ng diesel ng ₱24.94 kada litro, gasolina ng ₱3.41 kada litro, at kerosene ng ₱2.00 kada litro.

Ayon kay Garin, obligado ang iba pang oil companies na sumunod sa itinakdang price adjustments ng Department of Energy (DOE).

“‘Pag rollback siya, dapat kung P24.94 ‘yan dapat ‘yung rollback will be equal or more than the P24.94. So pwede siyang maging P25, pwede siyang maging P26, pero hindi siya pwedeng P20 lang. So kailangan sundan ng oil companies,” ani Garin.

“Pero ‘pag increase siya, ‘pag sinabi ng DOE na P10 lang halimbawa ang increase, hindi puwedeng sumobra,” dagdag niya.

Nauna dito ay nanawagan si Pangulong Marcos sa mga oil company na ipatupad nang buo at walang delay ang rollback sa presyo ng diesel at gasolina sa gitna ng inaasahang malaking bawas sa pump prices.

Lyrid meteor shower peaks April 21–22, offering bright spring “shooting stars”

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
-
0
Lyrid meteor shower peaks April 21–22, offering bright spring “shooting stars”

Skywatchers can now observe the annual Lyrid meteor shower, which is visible from April 16 to April 25, 2026, and is expected to peak on the night of April 21 into the early hours of April 22.

According to NASA, the peak may produce around 10 to 20 meteors per hour under clear, dark skies. The display is expected to be more visible this year due to a dim crescent moon, which will set before peak viewing hours begin, reducing light interference.

The Lyrids can be seen worldwide, with better visibility in the Northern Hemisphere. Observers are advised to look toward the northeastern sky, where the meteors appear to originate from the constellation Lyra.

Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through streams of debris left behind by comets. As these particles enter Earth’s atmosphere, they burn up and create bright streaks of light commonly known as shooting stars. The Lyrids are associated with debris from Comet Thatcher, an icy body that orbits the Sun approximately every 415 years.

“We only get to see the actual comet once every 415 years. But we pass through the grains that have been left in its wake every year around the same time,” said Maria Valdes, who studies meteorites at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Astronomers note that while a few random meteors can be seen on any clear night, meteor showers like the Lyrids create more frequent activity during specific periods of the year. The Lyrids are also considered one of the oldest recorded meteor showers, with observations dating back more than 2,500 years.

For the best viewing experience, experts recommend going outdoors after midnight until dawn, away from city lights and tall structures. Allowing 15 to 30 minutes for eyes to adjust to darkness is important, and viewers are advised to avoid looking at bright screens during observation.

“A meteor looks like a trail of light in the sky. What you tend to detect is the motion against the background,” said Lisa Will, an astronomer at San Diego City College.

The next major meteor event will be the Eta Aquarids, expected in early May 2026, which originate from debris left by Halley’s Comet.

Pope Leo XIV says debate with Trump over Iran war is “not in my interest,” reaffirms peace message

Venus L Peñaflor
-
0
Pope Leo XIV says debate with Trump over Iran war is “not in my interest,” reaffirms peace message

ABOARD THE PAPAL PLANE — Pope Leo XIV has said he has no intention of engaging in a public debate with U.S. President Donald Trump over the ongoing Iran war, stressing instead that he will continue to focus on his pastoral mission of preaching peace.

Speaking to reporters aboard the papal plane en route from Cameroon to Angola on Saturday, the pope addressed the escalating exchange of criticisms between the White House and the Vatican that has dominated international headlines in recent days. He said the controversy has been driven largely by commentary and misinterpretation rather than his actual message.

“There’s been a certain narrative that has not been accurate in all of its aspects, but because of the political situation created when, on the first day of the trip, the president of the United States made some comments about myself,” he said.

“Much of what has been written since then has been more commentary on commentary, trying to interpret what has been said.”

Trump had criticized the pope on his social media platform Truth Social on April 12, following Leo’s remarks on peace during the Iran conflict, which began after joint U.S. and Israeli strikes on February 28 and escalated with Iran’s retaliation. The U.S. president accused Leo of being soft on crime, sympathetic to the political left, and suggested that his election as the first American pope was influenced by Trump himself.

Leo, however, has consistently called for peace and dialogue, while rejecting any use of religious justification for war. He previously described Trump’s threat to annihilate Iranian civilization as “truly unacceptable.”

The Vatican has clarified that the pope’s appeals for peace are not directed at any single conflict, but reflect a broader concern over global wars. It cited examples such as the Russian Orthodox Church’s justification of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine as a “holy war” in highlighting the wider context of religious narratives being used in geopolitical conflicts.

During the in-flight press briefing, Leo also referred to his recent address at a peace gathering in Bamenda, Cameroon, a region affected by a separatist conflict in the country’s western Anglophone area that has lasted nearly a decade. In that speech, he condemned what he described as “a handful of tyrants” responsible for war and exploitation worldwide.

He noted that the remarks were prepared two weeks earlier, well before the latest political controversy began.

“And yet as it happens, it was looked at as if I was trying to debate again the president, which is not in my interest at all,” he said.

Despite the controversy, the pope reiterated that his focus remains pastoral as he continues his 11-day African tour.

“I primarily come to Africa as a pastor, as the head of the Catholic Church to be with, to celebrate with, to encourage and accompany all the Catholics throughout Africa,” he said.

He also pointed to upcoming liturgical reflections on Christian discipleship, fraternity, and justice, saying the Church must continue promoting peace and solidarity in a world marked by conflict.

Later on Saturday, Leo arrived in Angola, the third stop of his tour. The southern African nation is still healing from a 27-year civil war that ended in 2002 but left lasting social and economic scars.

During his visit, the pope is scheduled to meet President João Lourenço and deliver his first address to government officials, with a message centered on peace, encouragement, and hope for a nation still recovering from decades of conflict.

123...812Page 2 of 812




Tutubi Digital News will shape up the way you stay up to date with the goings-on around Calabarzon, and the world. Tutubi is committed to keep you socially active. Tutubi updates on the Go!


Contact us:

info@tutubi.ph

Popular Posts

Popular category

PH News3470World News3385Asia1404Curiosity998War Reports and Updates613

Developed by Tutubi News Magazine |Privacy Policy | Terms and Conditions of Use | Cookie Policy | All rights reserved