Philippines Today: Cabinet Shakeup, Estafa Case, Duterte Complaints Junked, and Lola Amour's Japan Win

The Philippines witnessed a flurry of significant events on May 23, 2025. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. accepted the courtesy resignations of three Cabinet secretaries, a move that follows his call for a government realignment to better meet public expectations. In the business world, GMA Network filed a P38-million estafa complaint against TAPE Inc., the producer of the long-running noontime show, Eat Bulaga!, alleging non-remittance of advertising revenues. Meanwhile, the Department of Justice junked complaints filed by former President Rodrigo Duterte against former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos and PNP Chief Rommel Marbil, citing lack of probable cause. The resolution also addressed the alleged damage to KOJC gates during a police operation, clarifying that the respondents were not present at the scene. In a separate development, actress Nadine Lustre received backing from incoming Representative Leila de Lima as she pursues legal action against what she claims is a social media assault. Adding a touch of international recognition to the day's events, Filipino band Lola Amour received a special award for Philippine Popular Music at the Music Awards Japan 2025. "It's truly an honor to receive this recognition in Japan," the band wrote on Instagram, highlighting the significance of the award. The diverse range of events, from political reshuffles to legal battles and international accolades, paints a dynamic picture of the Philippines on this particular day.