MANILA, Philippines—The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has filed a civil forfeiture case that covers the bank accounts of former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, a witness told the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Thursday. Defense attorney Rashel Ann Pomoy confirmed this…

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has stated that there are no bank records indicating that a contractor or the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) sent money to suspended Leyte Representative Martin Romualdez. This revelation came during the bail petition hearing of Romualdez, who is facing a P7.4-billion plunder charge alongside former Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co, Romualdez's personal assistant Joselyn Tragua Sereño, and Felicito Cristobal Guevarra, president of Samchan Foreign Exchange Corporation. The allegations involve their supposed connections to a flood control kickback scheme. AMLC financial investigator Atty. Jan Mark Busa testified that the council monitored P560.5 million in bank transactions linked to Romualdez's accounts from September 2022 to March 2025. During cross-examination, Busa confirmed that the AMLC did not find any evidence that these transactions were related to flood control projects. He also stated that the AMLC could not trace money transfers from a contractor, DPWH, or Romualdez's co-accused Co to Romualdez. Busa's investigation covered 1,951 financial transactions involving Romualdez between 2022 and 2025. When questioned about the discrepancy between the P560.5 million monitored and the P7.4 billion alleged in the plunder charge, Busa noted a significant difference. Additionally, Busa confirmed there were no AMLC records of Romualdez sending money to Golden Pheasant, the company allegedly used to purchase property at 30 Tamarind Road, South Forbes Park, Makati City, which was supposedly funded through simulated dollar-to-peso transactions facilitated by Guevarra through Samchan. The testimony highlights the ongoing legal challenges faced by Romualdez and his associates in the case related to alleged misuse of funds in flood control projects.

The impeachment trial of former President Rodrigo Duterte has seen the admission of bank records and Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) documents as evidence by the prosecution. This development marks a significant step in the proceedings, as these documents are expected to provide critical insights into the allegations against the former leader. The prosecution has been building its case around financial misconduct, with the newly admitted documents potentially supporting claims of misuse of public funds. The trial, which has drawn widespread attention, is being closely monitored by legal experts and the public alike. The documents were presented during a recent court session, where the judge ruled that they met the necessary legal standards for admissibility. This decision allows the prosecution to proceed with these materials as part of their argument. The defense has yet to comment on the admission of these documents, but it is anticipated that they will challenge their relevance and authenticity in upcoming hearings. The case remains ongoing, with further evidence expected to be presented in the coming weeks. The trial's outcome could have significant implications for the political landscape in the Philippines, particularly regarding accountability for public officials. Legal observers note that the use of financial documents in impeachment cases is not uncommon, but the specific details of this case could set a precedent for future proceedings. The court has maintained a strict schedule to ensure the trial progresses efficiently, with sessions held regularly to address the mounting evidence. The public has shown keen interest in the trial, with many following updates through media coverage and social media discussions. The admission of these documents underscores the seriousness of the charges and the thoroughness of the prosecution's approach. As the trial continues, all eyes remain on the court to see how these new pieces of evidence will influence the final verdict. The case has also sparked debates about the role of financial transparency in government, with calls for stronger oversight mechanisms to prevent similar issues in the future. The prosecution's strategy appears to be focused on building a comprehensive case that ties financial records directly to the allegations against Duterte. This approach aims to provide a clear and compelling narrative for the court and the public. The trial is expected to continue for several more months, with key witnesses and additional documents to be presented in the coming sessions. The legal team for the prosecution has emphasized the importance of these documents in establishing a pattern of financial misconduct, which they argue is central to the impeachment charges. The defense, meanwhile, is likely to focus on questioning the chain of custody and the reliability of the documents. The court has set a timeline for the presentation of further evidence, ensuring that the trial remains on track. The admission of these documents is seen as a pivotal moment in the trial, potentially shifting the momentum in favor of the prosecution. The public's patience is being tested as the trial drags on, but there is a growing consensus that the process must be thorough to ensure justice is served. The case has also highlighted the challenges of conducting high-profile trials in a politically charged environment, where public opinion can influence the proceedings. Legal experts are closely watching how the court handles the evidence, particularly the financial records, to assess the fairness and rigor of the process. The trial's progress will likely be a key topic of discussion in Philippine politics for the foreseeable future.

THE ANTI-MONEY Laundering Council (AMLC) said it will act against illegal casino operators that disguise gambling proceeds as ordinary business sales, such as payments routed through beauty salon or bakery merchant accounts.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has requested assistance from the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) in its investigation of a major drug case. The PNP is examining the seizure of illegal drugs… · Photo : Leon Fishman · CC BY · Flickr

Donderdag 29 oktober vond in Ridderkerk alweer de 67ste security sessie plaats. Een hele bijzondere sessie ditmaal. Want Jan van Toorn, die deze sessies voor securityprofessionals sinds 2003 organiseert, ontving uit handen van burgemeester Marco Oosterwijk van Ridderkerk een Koninklijke Onderscheiding. Tijdens de sessie sprak Paul van IJzendoorn van het Anti Money Laundering Centre (AMLC) […]

MANILA – The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) on Monday announced that PHP217,165 in a bank account registered to Abdulpatta Escalon Abubakar has been forfeited pursuant to a Manila Regional Trial Court ruling. Abubakar, 60, is a Filipino national and designated…

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has successfully obtained a court order from the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 18 to forfeit P217,165 in funds belonging to Abdulpatta Escalon Abubakar, a man identified as a financier for the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group. According to the AMLC, Abubakar allegedly facilitated money transfers from Saudi Arabia to the Philippines through the wives and relatives of Abu Sayyaf members. The funds were reportedly used to purchase weapons, ammunition, and materials for making improvised explosive devices. Abubakar was designated as a terrorist under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1267 for acting as a facilitator for the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant. International authorities identified him as a key facilitator in transferring $50,000 to former Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, who later became the recognized leader of the Islamic State in Southeast Asia. The AMLC emphasized that depriving terrorist facilitators of access to funds and financial services can impede their ability to plan, support, and sustain terrorist activities. This action is part of ongoing efforts by Philippine authorities to disrupt financial networks supporting terrorist organizations. The court order specifically targets funds in a bank account under Abubakar's name, marking a significant step in the government's anti-terrorism and anti-money laundering initiatives. The AMLC's move aligns with international counter-terrorism strategies aimed at cutting off financial support for extremist groups. This case highlights the Philippines' commitment to addressing terrorism through financial intelligence and legal mechanisms. The forfeiture of these funds represents a tangible outcome in the fight against terrorism, demonstrating the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between local and international authorities. The AMLC continues to monitor and act on financial transactions linked to terrorist activities to prevent further support for such groups.

A Manila court has ordered the forfeiture of P217,165 from a bank account belonging to Abdulpatta Escalon Abubakar, who has been linked to terrorism financing activities. The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) announced that the Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 18 made this decision, emphasizing the importance of financial intelligence in disrupting terrorism financing. According to the AMLC, Abubakar facilitated the transfer of funds from Saudi Arabia to the Philippines through the wives and relatives of members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG). He was designated as a terrorist under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1267 for allegedly acting as a facilitator for the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). International authorities identified him as a key facilitator who transferred US$50,000 to Isnilon Hapilon, a former ASG leader. The funds were believed to have been used to acquire weapons and ammunition, and Abubakar was also linked to efforts to procure materials for manufacturing improvised explosive devices. The AMLC stated that this forfeiture demonstrates the indispensable role of financial intelligence and asset recovery measures in combating terrorism financing. By depriving terrorist facilitators of access to funds and financial services, authorities can impede their ability to plan, support, and sustain terrorist activities. This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Philippine authorities to disrupt terrorist financing networks and protect national security. The AMLC continues to work with international partners to identify and target individuals involved in terrorism financing.

House prosecution spokesperson Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong has raised concerns that a company linked to Vice President Sara Duterte's husband, lawyer Manases 'Mans' Carpio, poses national security risks, beyond mere questions about unexplained assets. The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) confirmed that the company received P319 million from China and Hong Kong, with P315.93 million from mainland China and P3.39 million from Hong Kong. Adiong emphasized that this issue extends beyond the Vice President's failure to disclose assets in her Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), stating it touches on national security. He questioned why the Vice President refers to the Philippines as a 'troublemaker' in Southeast Asia while her husband's company receives funds from China, especially given China's aggressive activities in the West Philippine Sea. Adiong also noted that the Vice President has not taken a clear stance against China's illegal activities in the disputed waters. House prosecution adviser Robert Ace Barbers added that authorities should investigate whether China is exploiting the Philippines' political divisions during Duterte's impeachment proceedings to advance its interests. He stressed that the impeachment is an internal constitutional process and China should not take advantage of political differences to further its agenda in Philippine waters. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported that 101 Chinese vessels were monitored in the West Philippine Sea in September 2026, a significant increase from the 56 vessels monitored in August. This context highlights the heightened tensions in the region and the potential security implications of the financial ties between Duterte's associates and Chinese entities.

THE ANTI-MONEY Laundering Council (AMLC) signed an information-sharing protocol (ISP) with Mizuho Bank Ltd., Manila Branch to tighten…

THE ANTI-MONEY Laundering Council (AMLC) signed an information-sharing protocol (ISP) with Mizuho Bank Ltd., Manila Branch to tighten…

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has stated that the alleged receipt of funds from China by a company linked to Vice President Sara Duterte could pose a 'highest-level' national security threat if proven true. This statement was made during the impeachment trial of Vice President Duterte, where the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) confirmed that a company associated with the Vice President and her husband received P319 million from China and Hong Kong. Marcos emphasized that the Chinese money involved raises a national security issue, stating, 'The most disturbing aspect of it is the Chinese money that now rises to a national security issue, kung totoo (if it is true). If it is true, it is a national security issue.' He expressed hope that the allegations would be disproven, saying, 'Nothing would make me happier than proof that it is not true. Then it's one less thing that I have to worry about. But if it is true, it is a threat at the highest level to the Republic.' The Department of National Defense has initiated investigations into the allegations, and the National Security Council (NSC) has also taken the matter seriously, stating it will assess the national security implications of the reported transactions. Duterte's spokesperson, Salvador Paolo Panelo, defended the Vice President, stating that accusations linking her to China because of the alleged funds are without basis. He explained that a donation from the Chinese government to a foundation where Duterte serves as a trustee does not automatically mean Chinese government support, adding, 'What if it was used to build classrooms? Or what if it was used for charitable purposes and there is proof?'

Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial has moved deeper into Article II, with financial records, AMLC reports, BIR testimony, and China-linked remittances now drawing National Security Council review.

The week in photos from October 3-9, 2026, captures significant global events and the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. The trial, which has been ongoing for 33 days, focuses on financial transactions allegedly linked to flood control issues and illegal drugs. The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) reported 373 covered transaction reports (CTRs) and 34 suspicious transaction reports (STRs) for Duterte, with her husband having 363 CTRs and 30 STRs, totaling P4.4 billion in combined transactions. Bank representatives testified on October 6 to authenticate account records and verify the accuracy of Duterte's Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALNs), which were alleged to not reflect substantial bank balances. Prosecutors presented P96 million in manager's checks on October 7 to establish a 'pattern of concealment' involving Duterte and her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte. A financial forensic analyst, Alexander Cabrera, testified on October 9 that Duterte's undisclosed wealth amounts to P817 million from 2022 to 2025. The photos also showcase global events: Brazilian President Lula da Silva campaigning for re-election in Sao Paulo, dancers performing at Malta's Notte Bianca festival, a fashion show in Paris, Iranian women receiving military training, protests in Tokyo following a murder case, demonstrations in Madrid over housing issues, student protests in Paris over education concerns, pro-Palestine protests in Manila, a memorial service in Jerusalem marking the third anniversary of the October 7 attacks, missile strikes in Kyiv, and a Spider-Man gathering at New York Comic Con. The trial continues with Duterte's supporters gathering outside the Quezon City Regional Trial Court after her grave threats case was postponed. The article concludes with rescue operations following a landslide in Cebu City. The impeachment trial remains a central focus of Philippine political news, with ongoing developments in financial disclosures and public reactions.

Suspicious financial transaction reports do not by themselves establish illegal activity, Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) Executive Director Ronel

Inamin ng Anti-Money Laundering Council o AMLC na unang pagkakataon para kay Executive Director Ronel Buenaventura na makakita

Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) Executive Director Atty. Ronel Buenaventura INQUIRER FILE MANILA, Philippines — An Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) official on Tuesday said he had no