2025 WRAPPED: Remembering the major twists and turns this year

With its jaw-dropping twist of revelations to its gut-wrenching series of plots—the roller coaster ride of 2025—flooded by corruption that fueled people’s action, is finally coming to its final drop and turn to carry new stories of calls for actions, victory, and justice. 

As the year comes to an end, it’s important to look back at the stories that shocked the people, knocked them sideways, and made them proud in one way or another.

With everything that has happened on the ride through 2025, it’s time to reflect on your favorite highlights this year.   

Flooded: As the rain falls, the truth rises

This year, more than 20 typhoons have entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), and most of these destroyed houses, shattered dreams, and claimed the lives of so many Filipinos. 

But the masses realized that these casualties could have been prevented or at least lessened if their taxes were being used for their benefit, and that their resilience isn’t the only way to survive.    

Earlier this year, during his State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered an investigation into corruption in flood control projects. He then revealed a list of the top 15 contracting companies that bagged millions and billions worth of projects. 

From Congress to the Office of Chief Executives, the investigation uncovered the widespread corruption in the government. Names were dropped and anomalies were unwrapped. 

Billionaire couple Pacifico “Curlee” II and Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya were tagged by many Filipinos as the King and Queen of Flood Control as six contracting companies founded by the couple and their son bagged 345 solo and joint projects amounting to 25.2 billion pesos.  

But the Discaya spouses are just two of the biggest fish in the scandal. 

In the House of Representatives, two lawmakers holding high powerful posts are also included in the flood control fiasco. Resigned House Speaker Martin Romualdez and the former Ako Bicol Representative and General Appropriations Committee (GAC) Chair Zaldy Co were the men behind the budget insertions. Co’s whereabouts are still unknown, but in November, he released a three-part video series claiming that Romualdez and the president orchestrated P100 billion in budget insertions primarily for flood control projects. 

Congressmen and contractors were not the only actors in the corruption scandal. According to the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), there are senators who received kickbacks and commissions and even contributions from some contractors for their campaigns during the 2022 elections despite a provision in the Omnibus Election Code, banning them from accepting contributions from entities working with the government. 

Former Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero, the religious senator Joel Villanueva, and Bong Go were some of the confirmed names of senators who accepted contributions from different contractors who sponsored millions for their campaigns. Their involvement in the issue shook up the Senate resulting in the rearrangement of chairmanships and committees aiming to protect the “integrity” of the independent body. 

From contractors, congressmen, to senators—the two most powerful leaders of the country made sure that they will not be left behind. The President and Vice President were the biggest fish in this corruption. 

In September, PCIJ reported that Marcos and Duterte both received millions in contributions from contractors during their recent election campaigns. Marcos’ largest contributor was Rodulfo D. Hilot Jr., owner of Zamboanga del Sur-based Rudhil Construction & Enterprises Inc., providing 20 million for the president's campaign. Duterte, meanwhile, as reported by Rappler, received 19.9 million donations from Davao’s top contractor and his father’s longtime friend Glenn Escandor who owns Genesis88 Construction. 

It is as clear as a whistle that the taxes of the people were being used to fund the lavish and luxurious lifestyle of these greedy officials and their families. 

As the rain falls, the rotten truth rises—corruption kills.

The rains caused flooding, and the government’s systematic corruption fueled the people’s anger to flood the streets to echo their calls: Ikulong na ‘yan, mga kurakot!

According to Bayan, more than 80,000 protesters attended the #BahaSaLuneta protest on September 21. Starting from Rizal Park, progressives marched towards Mendiola, near Malacanang to call for accountability for the personalities involved in the massive corruption. 

During and after the protest, outrage broke out at Ayala Bridge, Recto, and Mendiola wherein at least 277 were arrested including 67 minors.  

Contrary to Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla’s claim that there were no casualties; photos, videos, and reports of police beating up protesters and even photojournalists were published by local and international news organizations. The police's use of tear gas, violent dispersal and arrest of protesters are the clear proof that the secretary’s statements were false. 

Changes: Shifts and turns on Philippine politics  

Speaking of Remulla, another Remulla now holds one of the most powerful offices in the country—the Ombudsman. 

The former Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla is the seventh Ombudsman as he was appointed by Marcos Jr. Remulla took his oath on October 9, and promised to uphold transparency, fairness, and accountability as the country’s top graft-buster. 

The new Ombudsman’s first order is the lifting of restrictions on public access on the Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), reversing his predecessor Samuel Martires’ rules. The former Ombudsman is a Duterte appointee. 

Talking about Duterte, their clan was on the biggest headlines of the year. 

On March 11, Rodrigo Duterte was arrested by the Philippine National Police and the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol). The former president was charged by the International Criminal Court (ICC) with crimes against humanity in relation to his bloody drug war that resulted in extrajudicial killings (EJK). He is now jailed in The Hague, Netherlands.  

It can be remembered that during the Quad Committee and Senate’s probes, the old man urged the ICC to make their investigation fast. Safe to say that Duterte wished for his arrest. 

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court ruled in their 97-page decision that the impeachment complaint against VP Sara Duterte was unconstitutional citing the one-year bar rule and due process. The next chance to file an impeachment complaint is next year, February 6. 

Progress: A fight for justice and victory

Since 2021, the case of missing sabungeros or cockfighting aficionados has yet to be resolved. But this year, another and bigger wave of cases have been brought up once again. 

One of the accused, Julie “Dondon” Patidongan said that the missing cockfighters were not just missing but were already dead as they were thrown to Taal Lake. Patidongan is Charlie “Atong” Ang’s business partner for 15 years, and Ang is the alleged mastermind behind the missing cockfighting enthusiasts. 

In the most recent update on the missing sabungeros case, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Tuesday, December 9, that it would file kidnapping cases against Ang and 24 others. A long awaited progress of the families of the victims. 

Another discussion on progress is the Nexperia workers’ win after their management agreed for a wage hike and the reinstatement of two union officials.

After the 74-hour strike of Nexperia Philippines Incorporated Workers Union (NPIWU), the management agreed to a 50-peso wage increase and to reinstate two union officials whose employment were terminated—a progress fought for by the workers. 

Amplified: Iskolars’ fight for justice and victory

Events and experiences in the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) is more than just a roller-coaster feels, it is a combination of various types of rides that can make you enjoy your college life while amplifying your voice for justice.  

As part of the annual First Day Fight (FDF) the university students, joined by youth representatives, conducted a mobilization on September 2, marking the opening of the academic year and fighting for a bigger budget allocation for the university. 

It can be remembered that of the P12.7 billion requested budget of PUP for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, only P3.6 billion has been approved. 

This budget cut is one of the primary issues on why the PUP community staged a system-wide walkout where an estimated 15,000 students and staff registered their calls for an increase in funding and also demanding accountability for the government's widespread corruption.  

In fighting for transparency and accountability, three student-leaders from PUP proved that they are true to their role as “Tanglaw ng Bayan” during the Baha sa Luneta Protest on September 21. 

Gio Caballes, an engineering student and a member of the student council was one of those illegally arrested during the protest. He was released on October 1 after posting an 18k bail. 

Meanwhile Jacob Baluyot, Associate Editor of The Catalyst and the National Chairperson of Alyansa ng Kabataang Mamamahayag PUP (AKM-PUP) and Tiffany Brillante, the former president of Sentral na Konseho ng Mag-aaral (PUP-SKM) both received a subpoena from the Philippine National Police - Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) on October 7 and 22 respectively. 

Following this, PNP CIDG filed indirect contempt charges against Baluyot on November 20. The charges came after the student journalist rejected the task force’s demand for him to appear for questioning at Camp Crame. 

In other events, Bagong Himig Serenata, once again, gave pride for the university as they earned the Grand Champion title in the Carols in the Walls Choral Competition organized by the Intramuros Administration and placing champion in the TV5 Tinig ng Pasko Grand Finale School Chorale Competition 2025. 

Indeed, being an Iskolar ng Bayan is one of a kind of ride as you get to experience major twists and turns in your college life fighting for victory, the people, and the liberation of the masses.

Champions: Colorful and winning experiences of COCians 

From colorful festivities, adrenaline-fueled events, to student-oriented leadership—PUP College of Communication (COC) is where you can get a one-of-a-kind experience of a ride with major twists and turns that will keep your heart full and your eyes open. 

This year, COC proved once again that they are the college of colors as they kickstarted the academic year with their Freshmen Fest with the theme “Advancing the New Wave of Communicators” on September 6. 

The festival welcomes the freshmen with performances from COC’s very own Cheering Squad and dance group Movers and Motions. PUP Polysound Band,, Janine Berdin, and other performers also added vibrance to the event with their performances. 

Concluding the freshmen welcoming event, the former Student Council (COC SC) President Tracy Ramos led the community’s lightning rally amplifying their calls for sufficient university budget, free press, and the release of Frenchie Mae Cumpio, the only imprisoned journalist in the country.  

As the college welcomes new batches of students, another set of leaders emerged to serve as their representation. 

With higher voter turnouts than last year, Alvin Aligam and Martha Bernadette Briol have been proclaimed as the newly elected president and vice president of the college's council. The two also served as councilors during Ramos’ term. 

Working alongside Aligam and Briol are their councilors Cheska Polido, Parzyval Peron Valdez, Emmanuel San Andres, Abijah Villagomez, Haizel Mariano, and Desiree Angeline Rendon. 

This new wave of leaders, with their collective actions, are expected to be the crusaders of cultivating a community of critical thinkers, media practitioners grounded by truth and social good, and an environment that advocates for growth. 

Another highlight for the college is the victory of students from the Department of Advertising and Public Relations (ADPR) in the recent Philippine Association of National Advertisers Foundation (PANAF) Brand Communications Students’ Competition. 

With this year’s theme “Trapped: Breaking the Debt Cycle Among Filipinos”, the DAPR presented their “Ang Bukas Ko, Kalkulado” winning campaign promoting financial literacy. This win is just another testament proving COCians are true to their spirit as college of champions. 

From Anonas where you can see the two-story building of the college, to different avenues and corners of the country, COC students will always make their voices heard and stories shine through and through. 

ConfetTears: The world of entertainment showcased

Filipinos’ year wouldn’t be complete if they don’t get to compete—national or international, in-person or online—a win is a fighting spirit booster and a pride. From pageantry to drag race, Filipinos are great contenders. 

Filipinas continue to bring pride and honor as they represent the country while promoting their advocacies in the world of pageantry. 

Ahtisa Manalo successfully sealed the third runner-up spot with her performance on this year’s Miss Universe, marking the country’s highest finish in three years. The Philippines also made history at the Miss Grand International Competition as Emma Tiglao won the title, the first back-to-back in history following CJ Opiaza. 

Miss World Philippines representative Krishnah Marie Gravidez and Miss Earth Philippines Joy Barcoma, who is also a COC alumna, both finished in a high placement in their respective contests but failed to penetrate into the final round. Nonetheless, both women are continuously advocating for social good and welfare through their campaigns. 

In the race of talent, wit, and skills, famous Filipina Drag Queen Brigiding snatched the crown as the inaugural winner of the all-star spinoff, Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale, which aired this year. Known for her “brightest star” aura, she won over her fellow Divine Divas member Vinas Deluxe in the lip sync for your life finale song Born to Drag by Marina Summers. 

One of the main factors that made the Filipinos’ ride throughout the year worthy of shout and chants are the major concerts of both local and international artists. 

From TWICE’s THIS IS FOR concert tour that filled the arena with Filipino ONCE’s voices cheering and singing along with their idols, NIKI’s Buzz World Tour that made the crowd feel the rawness and sorrow of every line, to BLACKPINK’s two-day DEADLINE World Tour that made BLINKS proved themselves as one of the most unforgettable crowds, best believe that Filipino fans never disappoint. 

Flying from international to local stunts, the best selling girl group in Asia during the early 2000s joined forces this year and held their massive reunion concert series. Sexbomb showcased their unmatched dancing prowess and performed their hits that brought the nostalgic feels to their fans in their concert held on December. 

Meanwhile, OPM chart-topping artist TJ Monterde also had his big show “Sarili Nating Mundo,” performing his classic hits and his trending song “Palagi” with his wife, KZ Tandingan. 

Also celebrating their huge hit “Multo”, Filipino band Cup of Joe held two major concerts this year. Their first concert “Silakbo” was already followed by a much bigger concert “Stardust,” capping off a breakout year as Spotify’s Top Local Artist. 

On the darker side of being a showbiz personality, Liza Soberano released “Can I Come In?”,  a cinematic podcast-documentary series hosted by Sara Bahbah. Soberano shared her raw and vulnerable experiences recounting childhood trauma and her healing journey. Since then, her stories and vulnerability have been the talk of the town. 

Another shocking news this year is the death of content creator and mental health advocate Emman Atienza. The girl was known as someone who’s verbal with her opinions on social issues and was an active champion of mental health awareness. 

Just days after, the filing of Emman Atienza Bill, an opportunistic move by Senator JV Ejercito has been criticized as it lacks empathy for Emman’s family, to Emman, and to the people who share the same experience with her. 

Highlights: Remembering the twists of 2025 before turning to 2026

As the roller coaster ride of 2025 comes to an end, stories of corruption, seeking justice, victory, and entertainment should be remembered. All the lessons this year should also be carried to everyone’s journey in the next years. 

This year, the eyes and minds of many people have been open on political discussions—a thing that should be enhanced and nurtured in the succeeding years so that the government should be reminded that the power is and always will be on the people. 

With 2025’s shocking twists and turns—from the social, academic, and entertainment aspect of your life—what is the highlight of your year?

Article: Rolan Muyot

Graphics: Jan Mike Cabangin, Xyra Caryl Zaleta, and Rhada Amarila