In a lengthy online program that blended personal commentary, political analysis, and current events, hosts Herman Laurel and Ado Paglinawan launched sharp critiques against the international community, the current Philippine administration, and mainstream media, framing them as interconnected forces working against the nation’s interests.
Nobel Peace Prize Labeled a “Sham”
A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to decrying the recent Nobel Peace Prize award. The hosts condemned the decision to award Venezuelan opposition figure Corina Machado, with one commentator calling the prize a “sham.” They drew comparisons to previous recipients like Maria Ressa and Henry Kissinger, alleging the award consistently promotes Western interests and hypocrisy, particularly citing the conflict in Gaza.
“Insane” Congress and Defense of Rep. Barzaga
The program strongly defended Congressman Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga, who has been labeled “insane” by some political opponents and media. The hosts turned the criticism back on his accusers, quoting, “A sane person to an insane society must appear insane.” They argued that Barsaga’s focus on corruption scandals makes him a target for those who wish to maintain the status quo. The hosts also promoted an anti-Marcos protest rally called by Barzaga scheduled for the evening of October 12.
Allegations of Widespread Corruption and Economic Sabotage
A central theme was the alleged “massive corruption” under the current Marcos administration, which was blamed for a massive loss in the Philippine stock market. Paglinawan cited research claiming a P5 trillion loss in market capitalization since December 2024. He warned of a long-term economic downturn, stating “recovery is impossible” without a change in leadership.
The hosts connected this to the ongoing Senate investigations into the “flood control” scandal, alleging that efforts to stop the probe are a cover-up to protect high-level officials, including Speaker Martin Romualdez. They dismissed affidavits contradicting key witness, former Marine Master Sergeant Orly Gozeña, as unreliable, coming from “employees” of the accused.
ICC Denounced as “Inhumane”
The International Criminal Court (ICC) was condemned for rejecting former President Rodrigo Duterte’s request for release pending trial. The hosts questioned the credibility of Senator Antonio Trillanes’ claims about Duterte’s health condition in detention, asking, “Under what power?” he had such information.
They argued that the ICC arrest violated its own Rome Statute by not promptly bringing Duterte before a “competent judicial authority.” The ICC was described as an “inhuman institution” rejected by major world powers and most ASEAN members.
International Affairs: Praise for China, Skepticism of US
The program consistently praised China, highlighting its delivery of aid to earthquake victims in Cebu and its growing global economic influence. In contrast, the United States was criticized for its “information war” against China and the hypocrisy of its Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites, which were questioned for their absence in recent disaster relief efforts.
The decline of US economic dominance was also noted, with hosts pointing to news that India is now using Chinese Yuan to pay for Russian oil and an Australian company securing a multi-billion Yuan loan for green energy, signaling a shift away from the US dollar.
Call for Action
The broadcast ended with a fervent call to action, urging the public to organize at the barangay level and for the military to reflect on its duty to the people and the state, implying a withdrawal of support from the current administration. The overall message was a demand for the removal of what they termed the “cancer” in the government to save the nation from economic and political ruin.#
