Filipino scribe shot dead, PEC demands an authentic probe and justice

• India and the United States are reportedly nearing a strategic pact to secure the supply of critical minerals, aiming to reduce dependencies on volatile global markets. • In a separate legal development on Tuesday, a special PMLA court in Mumbai ordered the remand of self-styled godman Ashok Kharat.

• Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is scheduled to meet with the Congress central leadership on the morning of May 26. • The primary focus of the meeting is to discuss strategy for the upcoming elections to the Rajya Sabha and the Legislative Council.

• Filipino journalist and Fort Pikit village council member Nestor Micator was shot dead in Cotabato, sparking urgent demands for justice from press groups. • According to the PEC, Micator is the third journalist killed in the Philippines and the 32nd media victim globally since January 1, 2026.

• The Philippines is facing a series of "seismic" challenges, including the International Criminal Court's recent legal developments regarding former President Rodrigo Duterte. • Economic stability is under threat as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation warns of slower regional growth driven by Middle East conflicts and oil shocks.

• Relatives of missing sabungeros have publicly denied participating in an alleged P1-billion settlement deal with businessman Charlie ‘Atong’ Ang. • During a press conference in Bulacan, the families accused certain members of their own circles of brokering secret negotiations without their consent.

• Security failures at immigration detention centers managed by a prison multinational have been revealed, with warnings that current conditions are putting both staff and detainees at risk. • Concerns are rising over the emergence of "prediction markets," with experts fearing these platforms could trigger a new wave of gambling harm.

• Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez intends to remain in power until 2027, despite ongoing political scandals and pressure from coalition partners. • Aitor Esteban, leader of the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV), criticized the government's lack of a stable majority and labeled the plan to continue beyond 2026 as "irresponsible."

• Members of Extinction Rebellion France scaled the Eiffel Tower to display a Palestinian flag in protest against Israel's actions in Gaza. • The demonstration was timed to coincide with the 78th anniversary of the Nakba, highlighting the group's environmental and social activism.

• A suspect is dead after opening fire near a White House security checkpoint, according to the Secret Service. • Ukraine has expanded its mid- and long-range strike capabilities by deploying domestically developed drone and missile technology.

• A suspect is dead after approaching a White House checkpoint while armed, according to the Secret Service. • Separately, the Trump administration is purging news releases regarding criminal charges and convictions related to the January 6 Capitol assault.

• A nine-story building under construction in a city north of the Philippine capital collapsed, resulting in the death of one Malaysian tourist and leaving 21 workers trapped. • In the U.S., Donald Trump cautioned against rushing a potential deal with Iran as new details regarding the agreement emerge.