Good morning.

Today’s issue starts with a legal shake-up in Duterte’s ICC case, then moves to slower PH growth, fuel price swings, Vietnam rice supply, and the nickel race. Also inside: AI companions, fragile Philippine eagles, dolphins getting suspiciously relaxed, and Mexico City slowly sinking into the group chat.

Stay Sharp.

Big picture, Rodrigo Duterte’s ICC case is entering a new phase, and his legal team is changing right before the trial stage begins.

What happened, British-Israeli lawyer Nicholas Kaufman asked the ICC to let him withdraw as Duterte’s lead counsel. He said Duterte told him during a prison visit that he plans to hire another lawyer. Kaufman’s contract also expired on March 31, 2026.

Context check, Kaufman had argued that the ICC lacked jurisdiction and that Duterte gave no direct order to kill drug suspects. The ICC Appeals Chamber rejected the jurisdiction argument.

What’s next, the court still needs to approve Kaufman’s exit. A status conference is set for May 27, 2026.

The Philippine economy grew just 2.8% in the first quarter, its weakest pace since the pandemic, as weak government spending, slowing investments, and Middle East tensions weighed on growth. Officials rejected fears of stagflation or a return to the “sick man of Asia” era, but admitted 2026 growth targets may need to be lowered.

Gasoline Prices Seen Rising Again

Gasoline prices may increase by ₱1.60 to ₱1.70 per liter next week, while diesel and kerosene could fall by ₱9 and ₱12 per liter, respectively, based on Singapore trading data. The Department of Energy said global oil prices are easing as Middle East tensions gradually fade from the market.

PH, Indonesia Deepen Nickel Alliance

Indonesia and the Philippines signed a nickel cooperation agreement covering technology, skills training, and downstream processing as both countries push for a stronger regional battery supply chain. Indonesia said Philippine nickel will help feed its smelters, while Manila aims to move beyond raw ore exports into higher-value manufacturing and processing.

The Philippines secured 1.5 million metric tons of rice from Vietnam through April 2027 to protect food supply amid geopolitical tensions, rising regional demand, and climate risks. The deal fixes DT8 rice prices at $450 per metric ton and supports efforts to stabilize inflation and strengthen ASEAN agricultural trade cooperation.

Shakira has released Dai Dai as the official song for World Cup 2026 featuring Burna Boy The anthem promotes the tournament hosted across the United States Mexico and Canada stadiums. (Read more)

Kris Aquino Reveals New COVID-19 Battle Amid Ongoing Health Struggles

Kris Aquino has confirmed she tested positive for COVID-19 again after a recent hospitalization. She shared updates on her condition, noting symptoms like fever and cough as she continues her health recovery journey. (Read More)

The Philippine women’s baseball team earned a wildcard spot in the 2026 WBSC World Cup, marking its debut on the world stage against top-ranked teams like Japan and USA teams. (Read more)

The creator of Roomba introduced a new AI powered robot pet designed to offer companionship and emotional support. The four legged robot can learn habits, respond to touch, and follow people around the house. (Read more)

Young Europeans Turn to AI Chatbots for Emotional Support

A new survey found many young Europeans now use AI chatbots to talk about personal problems and mental health. Experts warn AI can help, but should not replace real human support. (Read more)

Researchers developed an AI powered robot named Ace that can compete with elite table tennis players using fast reactions and advanced sensors. The robot learns shots, reads spin, and adapts during rallies in real time. (Read more)

Pennsylvania Sues AI Company Over Fake Doctor Chatbot

Pennsylvania officials sued an AI company after a chatbot allegedly pretended to be a licensed doctor and gave medical advice. The state warned that vulnerable users could be misled by fake AI personas. (Read more)

Study Finds Philippine Eagle Genetically Fragile

A new study found the critically endangered Philippine eagle has extremely low genetic diversity, making it more vulnerable to disease and inbreeding. Researchers say stronger forest protection and careful breeding programs are needed to help save the species.

Gibraltar Monkeys Eat Soil After Junk Food Binges

Researchers found monkeys in Gibraltar eat soil to ease stomach problems caused by junk food like chips, chocolate, and ice cream. Scientists say the dirt may help protect their digestive system and restore healthy bacteria.

Dolphins Seen Passing Around Puffer Fish for a Natural High

A wildlife documentary captured dolphins gently chewing and passing around puffer fish that release a mild nerve toxin. Experts believe the dolphins may be intentionally using the toxin to experience a trance like effect.

Webb Telescope Finds Dark Airless Super Earth

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope discovered a hot rocky exoplanet with no atmosphere and a dark surface similar to Mercury. Scientists believe the distant world may be covered in ancient volcanic rock and space weathered dust.

🚢 Seven Filipino crew members survived a drone attack on container ship San Antonio at the Strait of Hormuz, with four injured and three in intensive care. (Read more)

⚖️ Sara Duterte alleged lawmakers profit from her impeachment case as House members claim enough votes exist to elevate proceedings to Senate. (Read more)

🏛️ Malacañang said Franco Mabanta briefly served Marcos in 2018, denying current ties amid alleged extortion case involving Martin Romualdez. (Read more)

🤝 ASEAN adopted agreements on maritime cooperation, climate action, disaster response, AI, and regional integration during the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu. (Read more)

🚨 Twenty-six Filipino seafarers were deported from the United States after arrests linked to alleged child sexual exploitation material offenses investigations. (Read more)

Years of drought left Iraq’s famous marshlands dry and abandoned, but rising water levels are now bringing life back to the wetlands. Fishermen, buffalo herders, and returning families are slowly rebuilding their communities as biodiversity begins to recover.

At least three people died and 20 hikers are missing after Mount Dukono erupted in Indonesia, sending ash into the sky and triggering urgent rescue operations on the volcano.

NASA’s NISAR satellite shows Mexico City is sinking unevenly, with some areas dropping up to 2 cm per month due to groundwater loss and soil compaction, threatening infrastructure and millions of residents.

📝 Where to celebrate Mother’s Day 2026: dining promos and special treats. (Read more)

📝 New fighting game Bow-wow Battle uses real barking to win matches. (Watch here)

📝“Millennial vs Gen Z” marketing trend spreads across local brands and businesses. (Read more)

📝Shih Tzu revived after flatlining during surgery following car accident.(Read more)