Alfred Vargas and wife file criminal case against parents of bully: “This is where it stops”

TAKING a firm stand against the culture of silence in bullying, Quezon City Councilor Alfred Vargas and his wife, Yasmine, filed a criminal complaint on Monday against the parents of a minor who allegedly bullied and abused their son during swimming activities.

The complaint, filed before the Office of the City Prosecutor of Manila, cites respondents Juvelle Bacosa and Robert Vincent Sy for violation of Section 10(a) of Republic Act No. 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.

ALFRED VARGAS & JASMINE ESPIRITU-VARGAS

The legal action stems from a pattern of conduct where the respondents’ minor child repeatedly pushed and held the Vargases’ son underwater during swimming training sessions. 

These bullying incidents, by way of drowning the Vargas couple’s child, occurred several times despite efforts, reminders and appeals made by the Vargases to the parents of the bully to tell their child to stop and to manage the minor’s conduct.

“Mayroon pa ngang ginawa yung bully na hindi talaga appropriate at sobrang sakit sa kalooban namin. Kinadyot niya yung anak ko sa malaswang paraan at nung nakita ng misis ko at sinabi sa nanay, tinawanan pa ng nanay at sinabi, ‘He’s just dancing!’,” Vargas said. 

JASMINE ESPIRITU-VARGAS & ALFRED VARGAS

“Every time we go to the parents to try to resolve these issues, we were either dismissed or gaslighted,” he added. 

The situation reached a breaking point during a swimming competition at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex last February. 

In the event, Vargas and several other people personally witnessed the minor pushing his child at the side area of the pool during warm-up period, almost injuring his son right before the competition. 

After the near-injury, two other friends of the bully laughed at his son as he was left on the ground, causing the child severe fear and emotional distress.

Vargas further recounted how the mother of the bully shrugged off the incident and pretended that nothing happened when he brought the matter to her attention. 

Adding insult to injury, the mother started posting misrepresented content online and never stopped.

“Bilang ama, may isang bagay na hindi mo kayang tiisin: ang makita ang anak mo na inaapi,” Vargas said in a statement. 

“The only regret we have is we didn’t do it sooner,” he added.

“Ilan lang ang mga ito sa marami pang ginawa sa anak ko. Hindi ito simpleng ‘away ng bata.’ Hindi ito bagay na dapat palampasin,” he added.

In the complaint, the Vargas couple emphasized that the respondents failed in their legal duty under the Family Code to supervise and discipline their child. 

Despite having actual knowledge of prior similar incidents that occurred during swimming sessions, the parents allegedly failed to take effective measures to prevent the recurrence of the dangerous behavior.

This negligence enabled acts prejudicial to the Vargas child’s welfare, which constitutes child abuse under Section 10(a) of RA 7610. The law penalizes acts that cause psychological or emotional suffering, even in the absence of physical injury, as supported by established jurisprudence.

“Bullying is not normal. It is not harmless. It is not acceptable. Maaari sanang maiwasan ang insidente na ito kung hindi napabayaan ang bata ng magulang. Kaya ngayon, pinili naming lumaban. Hindi para maghiganti kundi para manindigan para sa anak ko at para sa lahat ng batang natatakot magsalita,” Vargas said.

A staunch advocate for child protection, Vargas has previously urged the Quezon City Council to discuss parental accountability in bullying cases. He has also expressed support for national measures to strengthen anti-bullying policies and reporting systems in schools.

By filing this case, the lawmaker hopes to serve as an example for families who suffer in silence. 

“Kung ikaw ay naging biktima ng bullying, o magulang na dumaan dito, alam kong hindi ito madali. Pero hindi tayo pwedeng manatiling tahimik. This is where it stops,” Vargas said.

Love, Lies, and Betrayal Await: Prime Video's 'Love Is Never Gone' starring Joshua Garcia and Ivana Alawi premieres May 8

SINGAPORE, April 8, 2026 - Prime Video today unveiled its upcoming Filipino romance drama series Love Is Never Gone, announcing its exclusive premiere date of May 8 and releasing the official key art. 

Produced by ABS-CBN Studios and Dreamscape Entertainment, it is set against the vibrant backdrop of Morocco, the series blends romance and suspense, following two lost souls who find strength and love in each other only to discover that lies and betrayal threaten to derail their path to happiness.

The series features a powerhouse ensemble led by Joshua Garcia, Ivana Alawi, Jameson Blake, Jane Oineza, Michael de Mesa, Epy Quizon, Fyang Smith, JM Ibarra, and Dina Bonnevie.

Teo (Joshua Garcia) is a devoted son who dreams of a better life for his family. He falls victim to Yana (Ivana Alawi), a cunning thief known as "Chameleon," but soon learns she steals out of desperation to care for her sick mother. What begins in anger turns into love, forged through shared loss and sacrifice.  

However, Yana's ties to a crime syndicate lead to betrayal and Teo's wrongful imprisonment, leaving him convinced she destroyed him. Years later, pardoned and back in the Philippines, Teo tries to rebuild his life, only to discover that Ace Verona's (Jameson Blake) wife, Gem, is the very image of Yana. 

As he infiltrates her world seeking justice, he uncovers dangerous secrets about the powerful Verona family and the shocking truth about Gem's sacrifice to free him. Caught between love, betrayal, and the corruption of a ruthless clan, Teo is forced into a final reckoning where passion, vengeance, and survival collide—proving that love endures even after betrayal.

The series is directed by award-winning filmmaker Emmanuel Palo, known for Sta. Niña (2012) and Jojo Saguin, known for Linlang (2023) and The Alibi (2025). They are joined by celebrated scriptwriter Ayi Tamayo, whose credits include Dirty Linen (2023).

Love Is Never Gone joins thousands of titles available on Prime Video, including Filipino favorites such as The Silent Noise, The Alibi, LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines, Saving Grace, Linlang, and Drag Den with Manila Luzon Seasons 1 and 2; Korean titles like Siren’s Kiss, Spring Fever, Surely Tomorrow, Nice to Not Meet You, Confidence Queen, Head Over Heels, GOOD BOY, Newtopia, and Marry My Husband; and anime hits including Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, Jujutsu Kaisen 0, and Rurouni Kenshin.

The service also features award-winning and critically acclaimed Amazon MGM Studios series and films such as Young Sherlock, Fallout, Heads of State, Reacher, Red One, Road House, The Boys, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, and The Summer I Turned Pretty, alongside licensed fan favorites like John Wick and Challengers. Prime Video also offers exclusive access to live sports, including the NBA, as well as acclaimed sports documentaries such as Bye Bye Barry, Kelce, and Earnhardt.

Prime Video members can watch anytime, anywhere on thousands of compatible devices. Through the Prime Video app, members can also download content on mobile devices and tablets for offline viewing at no additional cost. Prime Video is available in the Philippines for just P149 per month.

“The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” powers up as the biggest worldwide debut of the year at $372.5M, and breaks local record of biggest opening day of the year in PH

It’s-a hit! The Super Mario Galaxy Movie soars to the stars as it debuted to a record-breaking $372.5 million worldwide, with $182.5 million coming internationally. 

This puts the video-game inspired film at the top as 2026’s biggest debut. It also achieved the title of biggest opening day in the Philippines, at PHP 12,474,229. 

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is the second installment to Universal, Illumination, and Nintendo’s film adaptation of the beloved Super Mario franchise. In this film, brothers and best pals Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day) are off on their biggest adventure yet, as the galaxy calls for heroes against a new threat. Joining them are Toad (Keegan-Michael Key) , Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy), and the newest member of the party, Yoshi (Donald Glover). 

Also returning to voice a now-tiny Bowser is Jack Black, and longtime Nintendo fan Brie Larson debuts in the franchise as the protector of the Cosmos, Rosalina.

The galaxy awaits as The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is now showing in Philippine cinemas. Check out Universal Pictures PH (FB), UniversalPicturesPH (IG), and UniversalPicsPH (TikTok) for the latest news and updates.

Puregold Highlights Sari-Sari Stores’ Role in Driving Grassroots Commerce and MSME Growth

IN its final installment of the Sari-Sari Stories, Puregold releases “Pangalan,” a moving tribute to the sari-sari stores that continue to power daily life, grassroots enterprise, and community connection across the Philippines.

Following “Ways,” “The Sign,” and “The Witness,” Puregold broadens the conversation from nostalgia to economic relevance, highlighting how sari-sari stores continue to serve as accessible retail touchpoints, community anchors, and entry-level enterprises that support household livelihoods in the country.

 

Sari-sari stores go beyond informal neighborhood retail. They function as last-mile commerce points that respond to everyday consumer needs with proximity, familiarity, and flexible purchasing options. Their resilience has allowed them to remain relevant even as the retail landscape continues to evolve.

SB19’s Stell also makes an appearance in Puregold’s Sari-Sari Stories series.

 

That economic role is matched by social relevance. At the heart of Pangalan is the idea that sari-sari stores are more than neighborhood shops: they are trusted spaces that people turn to not only for essentials, but for connection and reliability. The film captures this dual role in distinctly Filipino terms: the store as tanungan, tambayan, and takbuhan.

Jhoanna of BINI brings familiarity to Puregold’s Sari-Sari Stories, appearing in “Pangalan.”

 

The narrative is reinforced by appearances of OPM artists Jhoanna Robles of BINI, Stell Ajero of SB19, and Skusta Clee, whose personal recollections reflect the deep familiarity of sari-sari stores in Filipino life. Their participation adds cultural relevance to a message ultimately anchored in enterprise, accessibility, and community-based retail.

 Skusta Clee lends authenticity to “Pangalan,” as he appears in a cameo role.

 

Puregold’s focus on this segment remains rooted in mass-market demand and the practical realities of everyday consumption. By spotlighting community-based retail, the company reinforces its relevance at the grassroots level while drawing attention to the vital contribution of MSMEs to the domestic economy.

 

The timing is equally strategic, with MSMEs already looking ahead at the upcoming Puregold Tindahan Ni Aling Puring Sari-Sari Store Convention in May. The annual event has become a key platform for sari-sari store owners, entrepreneurs, and partner suppliers, underscoring Puregold’s enduring commitment to small business development and ecosystem growth.

  

Watch the full video here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAE7m6Ts2ew

Stay in the loop. Subscribe to the Puregold Channel on YouTube, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, and follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and X, and @puregoldph on TikTok for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

'JING' MAKES GLOBAL DEBUT IN SINGAPORE, UNVEILING A CREATOR-FIRST SOCIAL MEDIA

A new era in social media has officially begun. Jing, the next-generation creator-first digital platform, made its highly anticipated global debut last March 29, 2026, at Hall 6 of Golden Village Funan in the Marina Bay Area, Singapore—drawing a full-capacity crowd in what proved to be a landmark moment for the future of digital engagement.

The launch event, hosted by Swiss content creator Marion Muller, with special segments led by Singaporean influencers Megan Foo and Kathy Wong, delivered an electrifying experience for attendees. The venue was packed to the brim with SME leaders, media executives, and entertainment industry figures from Singapore and Malaysia, underscoring the strong regional and global interest in Jing’s bold vision.

Glen John Labasug (JING President & CEO) with Marion Muller

Adding star power to the occasion were award-winning international actress, “Muse of Philippine Cinema” Arci Muñoz and acclaimed actress Angeli Khang, alongside internationally recognized film director and singer-songwriter, Nijel de Mesa.

But beyond the glamour, Jing’s message was clear: this is not just another social media platform—it is a creator-first digital economy built to empower.

Arci Muñoz, Veron Valle (JING Chief Finance Officer) and Angeli Khang

During the keynote presentations, Jing executives took the stage to outline a bold reimagining of the digital landscape, followed by an engaging Q&A session that energized the audience.

“JING stands for Join, Interact, Network, Grow,” said Glen John Labasug, President-CEO and Founder of Jing. 

“We are introducing mechanisms that directly connect to monetization opportunities, making it easier than ever for creators to turn their passion into sustainable income.”

Megan Foo and Kathy Wong

Reinforcing this mission, Jing Turla, Chairman and Co-Founder, emphasized the platform’s purpose: “Jing prioritizes creator sustainability because without creators, there is no culture, no entertainment, and no community.”

Meanwhile, Chief Finance Officer Veron Valle shared the company’s guiding principle: “Every feature in Jing asks one question: does this empower creators or not? If the answer is no, it doesn’t belong on Jing.”

Jing Turla (JING Chairman and Co-Founder)

At a pivotal moment when creators worldwide are demanding fair value for their work, Jing emerges as a revolutionary ecosystem designed to redefine how attention, engagement, and value are shared. By seamlessly integrating monetization opportunities into its core experience, Jing positions itself as a powerful platform for creators, entrepreneurs, and communities alike.

With its official launch, Jing is now available for free download on Google Play and the Apple App Store, opening its doors to creators and users worldwide.

The future of social media is here—and it belongs to creators.

Download Jing today. Join. Interact. Network. Grow. 

PRIME VIDEO AND ABS-CBN STUDIOS CELEBRATE STAR-STUDDED BLUE CARPET PREMIERE OF "THE SILENT NOISE"

Prime Video and ABS-CBN Studios successfully hosted the Blue Carpet Celebrity Premiere and Grand Media Conference of "The Silent Noise" on March 10 at Gateway Mall 2, Cinema 11. The screening marked the highly anticipated unveiling of the series’ pilot episode, followed by an engaging media conference with the cast and creators.

Zanjoe Marudo, KD Omalin and Angelica Panganiban,

The Blue Carpet rolled out in style, featuring a star‑studded lineup of celebrities and special guests. In attendance were Ralph Malibunas, Kakki Teodoro, Joel Saracho, Junjun Quintana, Monching Gutierrez, Karina Bautista, Tommy Alejandrino, Joem Bascon, Mutya Orquia, Zaijian Jaranilla, KD Omalin, Zanjoe Marudo and Angelica Panganiban, whose presence thrilled the invited media and fans.

Angelica Panganiban

KD Omalin

Zanjoe Marudo

Anticipation and excitement ran high following the premiere screening of the pilot episode, which captivated both the media and the actors themselves. During the Grand Media Conference, the cast and creators took the stage to share insights, respond to press questions, and highlight the show’s creative journey. Alongside the media, guest celebrities, and fans, the Filipino Sign Language (FSL) community was specially invited in recognition of KD Omalin’s role as a deaf child in the series. To ensure inclusivity, the entire conference was interpreted for the FSL community present in the media conference, emphasizing the production’s commitment to accessibility and representation. 

Mutya Orquia

Zaijian Jaranilla

Karina Bautista

Tommy Alejandrino

Ralph Malibunas

"The Silent Noise" is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video on March 20, with 2 new episodes released each subsequent week in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

The series follows a family unraveling under the weight of secrets where silence offers no protection. When tragedy strikes, suspicions resurface, and relationships are tested, forcing each member to confront truths they’ve avoided for years. As the mystery deepens, the story reveals how love, loyalty, and silence can shape destinies in unexpected ways. 

Catch one of the most highly anticipated Filipino titles beginning March 20 on Prime Video.

Joem Bascon

 Monching Gutierrez

Joel Serrate

"The Silent Noise" joins thousands of other shows and films available on the Prime Video catalogue, such as  "The Alibi," "LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines," "Linlang," "Drag Den with Manila Luzon Seasons 1 and 2" Korean titles such as "Siren’s Kiss," "Spring Fever," "Surely Tomorrow," "Nice to Not Meet You," "Confidence Queen," "Head Over Heels," "GOOD BOY," "Newtopia," "Marry My Husband" anime hits such as "Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX," "Jujutsu Kaisen 0," "Rurouni Kenshin" on top of award-winning and critically acclaimed Amazon MGM Studios-produced series and movies "Young Sherlock," "Fallout," "The Bluff," "Heads of State," "Reacher," "Red One," "Road House," "The Boys," "The Lord of the Rings: The RIngs of Power," and "The Summer I Turned Pretty" licensed fan favorites "John Wick," and "Challengers" 

Junjun Quintana

Kakki Teodoro

Prime Video exclusive access to coverage of live sports including NBA, and acclaimed sports documentaries including "Bye Bye Barry," "Kelce," and "Earnhardt. Prime Video members are able to watch films and shows anywhere and anytime on thousands of compatible devices. In the Prime Video app, members can also download episodes on their mobile devices and tablets and watch anywhere offline at no additional cost. Prime Video is available in the Philippines for just P149 per month.

Direk Onat Diaz

Councilor Vargas pushes for stricter QC Anti-Bullying Ordinance; City Council to probe cases of bullying against PWD students

 

QUEZON City Councilor Alfred Vargas has called for a comprehensive review and amendment of the city’s Anti-Bullying Ordinance to address the alarming rise of bullying cases in local schools.

The move comes as Vargas  coordinated with the Quezon City Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) to specifically investigate reports of bullying and physical abuse targeting students with disabilities. 

In a privilege speech, Vargas expressed his grief and outrage over a reported tragedy involving a 15-year-old student with a seizure disorder who allegedly took his own life after enduring relentless physical and verbal abuse from his peers. The victim was reportedly assaulted inside a school restroom while other students cheered, an incident captured on CCTV. 

“Layunin po nating marinig ang lahat ng mga stakeholders, mapanagot ang sinumang dapat mapanagot na may sala o may pagpapabaya na dahilan ng malungkot na pangyayaring ito. All sides should be heard. Only the truth shall be pursued,” Vargas said.

The City Council has voted to investigate the incident.

Vargas likewise emphasized that the current systems in place must be re-evaluated to ensure that all schools are safe spaces rather than venues for violence. 

He said that bullying happens in both public and private institutions, and that the local government must step in to stem bullying and abuse in all schools. 

“Hindi po pwedeng idahilan ang pagkakaroon ng  ‘batang isip.’ This is a matter of life and death. Kaya naman nananawagan po ako sa ating lahat,” he said.

“Siyempre kasama sa pamumuno ng ating Mayor Joy Belmonte and Vice Mayor Gian Sotto, at nating lahat, ang ating mga kasamahan sa Sangguniang Panlungsod na muli po nating buksan at pagusapan ang Anti-Bullying Ordinance po natin. Maaaring kailangan na po natin itong paigtingin pa at mag-adjust sa panahon upang hindi na maulit ang mga ganitong klaseng kasawian,” Vargas added.

Vargas is particularly concerned about the vulnerability of the PWD community within the education system. By engaging PDAO, the councilor aims to create specialized reporting channels and stricter penalties for those who target students with special needs.

He also challenged school administrators and parents to take a more proactive stance, rather than merely reacting after a tragedy has occurred.

“Sa pagbalangkas o sa pag amyenda ng ating ordinansa, itanong din natin kung ano ba talaga ang tungkulin ng  mga magulang ng mga estudyante sa pag-report ng bullying.  Ano ang role, ang papel ng mga magulang kung yung anak nila ang binubully?  Lalo na, anong role ng magulang kung yung anak nila yung nambubully? Napakahalaga po ng papel ng magulang sa usaping ito, ” Vargas stressed.

The councilor ended his plea by calling on the public to break the culture of silence that surrounds bullying.

“Nananawagan po ako sa ating lahat na maging mas mapagmalasakit sa ating kapwa. Spread kindness. At siyempre, maging mapagmatyag at maagap sa pag-report sa mga insidente ng pang-aabuso at pambubully. Wala pong pamilya ang dapat makaranas ng ganitong pighati dahil sa bullying,” Vargas said.