Manila Bulletin - A nation at the crossroads of justice, governance, and resilience

• 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.

• The UK government is facing a leadership crisis as internal pressure mounts for the current Prime Minister to resign following significant electoral losses. • Recent regional elections saw the party lose approximately 1,500 local council seats and lose control of the government in Wales.

• A suspect is dead after opening fire near a security checkpoint at the White House, according to the Secret Service. • In the arts world, director Cristian Mungiu has won the prestigious Palme d’Or for his new drama "Fjord," which explores political polarization in Norway.

• A Los Angeles Times report published May 24, 2026 says federal judges, lawyers and law professors are alarmed by President Donald Trump’s pressure on the legal system and by a broader breakdown in respect for court authority. • The article cites repeated clashes over deportation flights, 48-hour notice requirements, and Justice Department conduct, including allegations that administration lawyers have misled judges and targeted firms that opposed Trump.

• Following the 2024 General Elections where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 240 seats—falling 32 short of a majority—the party has regained momentum in regional politics. • The BJP has secured resounding majorities in several subsequent Assembly elections, either independently or through alliances, across states including Haryana and Maharashtra.