MAGnificent Discovery: UP Scientists Unveil Secrets of Marine Microbes Beneath Mabini's Seafloor

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In the quiet coastal town of Mabini, Batangas—renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life—a silent, powerful exchange is constantly at play beneath the seafloor. Groundwater seeps from land into the ocean in a process known as submarine groundwater discharge (SGD), bringing with it a complex cocktail of nutrients, metals, and pollutants. But beyond its physical flow, SGD also carries something far more elusive and extraordinary: microbial life that may hold the keys to ecosystem health and future medical breakthroughs.

In a groundbreaking first for the Philippines, scientists from the University of the Philippines – Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS) have dived deep into the microbial underworld of this SGD site, revealing a teeming universe of unseen life forms with remarkable potential. The team reconstructed 17 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from microbial mats in the SGD-rich waters of Acacia, Mabini—each MAG representing a blueprint of an organism never cultured in a lab, yet alive and active in the marine sediment.

From Microbes to Medicine: A Deep-Sea Genetic Goldmine

Joshua Veluz, Paul Christian Gloria, Laurence Anthony Mallari, and Dr. Maria Auxilia Siringan from the UPD-CS Natural Sciences Research Institute's Microbiological Research and Services Laboratory (MRSL), in collaboration with Ann Elizabeth Enova of the UPD-CS Marine Science Institute (MSI), are the minds behind this marine microbiological milestone.

Their findings are nothing short of revelatory. The diverse genomes they decoded include functional genes crucial to nutrient cycling—the very processes that nourish coral reefs and sustain marine biodiversity. Even more astonishing was the discovery of biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs)—genetic toolkits that enable microbes to naturally produce bioactive compounds like antibiotics and anticancer agents.

“These BGCs are nature’s chemical laboratories,” the team explained. “They provide a treasure trove of untapped potential for pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.”

SGD Sites: Hidden Guardians of the Sea

For decades, the study of submarine groundwater discharge focused heavily on its geological and chemical mechanics. But the UP team’s research highlights a long-overlooked truth: that these microbial communities are not mere passengers in SGD—they are key players in sustaining the health of our oceans.

“Microbial life in SGD areas like Mabini is pivotal in maintaining ecological balance,” the researchers emphasized. “Their role in driving biogeochemical cycles is essential to marine biodiversity, particularly in sensitive coral reef systems.”

With antibiotic resistance becoming a global health crisis, the hunt for new antimicrobial compounds has become urgent. The microbes identified in Mabini’s SGD sites could very well be our next line of defense against untreatable infections and emerging diseases.

Science Meets Stewardship

The research does not exist in a vacuum. Conscious of its implications for environmental governance, the team brought their findings to Mabini’s community leaders, tourism operators, Bantay-Dagat volunteers, and divers. More than 50 stakeholders gathered at the Mabini Tourism Office to hear firsthand how these microbial discoveries are reshaping our understanding of the sea’s hidden processes.

The scientists emphasized that baseline microbial data is critical to drafting marine protection policies, particularly for towns like Mabini, whose economy and heritage are deeply entwined with the sea.

“We owe it to our communities and future generations to safeguard these biodiverse environments,” the researchers said. “Science must guide policy.”

Charting New Waters in Marine Genomics

The journey is far from over. The team is now expanding its genomic surveys to other SGD sites across the country. By comparing microbial communities from different regions, they hope to paint a richer, more comprehensive picture of marine microbial diversity in the Philippine archipelago.

In addition to full-genome metagenomic data, they are also preparing to publish metabarcode data, which will allow for even greater resolution in identifying microbial species and their functions.

Their paper, “MAGnificent microbes: metagenome-assembled genomes of marine microorganisms in mats from a Submarine Groundwater Discharge Site in Mabini, Batangas, Philippines,” has already made waves in the international journal Frontiers in Marine Science—a testament to the study’s global significance.

Funded Hope and Future Horizons

This groundbreaking work is part of a larger three-year effort under the BioRe CoARE SGD program (Biodiversity and Resilience of Coral Reefs and Associated Ecosystems in Submarine Groundwater Discharge Areas), funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD-DOST).

As science continues to peel back the layers of our ocean’s mysteries, one thing becomes clear: the future of medicine, biotechnology, and environmental stewardship may well be shaped by the tiny, tireless microbes thriving beneath our very feet—guardians of the deep, whose genetic codes are just beginning to be deciphered.

Wazzup Pilipinas salutes our Filipino scientists for daring to explore the microbial frontier and championing the role of science in sustainable ocean governance. Mabini’s seabed, once silent and unseen, now speaks with a voice of promise, purpose, and profound potential.

BIR Night Raid results in the seizure of over 81,000 illicit vape pods with over ₱543 Million in tax liabilities

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Illicit Vape Criminals have resorted to using Houses and Garages to hide their illicit vape products

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), headed by Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr., seized illicit vape products with ₱543,739,072.80 in tax liability, including penalties, during a joint enforcement operation with the National Bureau of Investigation last May 8, 2025. The night raid was conducted at a residential compound in Marilao, Bulacan. 

Inside the garage of the raided house 406 master cases containing an estimated 81,200 vape pods under the brand “TEAM PAPA” were confiscated. Said vape products were discovered without the mandatory BIR-issued excise stamps, in clear violation of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended (Tax Code). 

"Criminals engaged in illicit vape are already using houses and residential compounds to hide their illegal activities. In this house in Marilao, Bulacan we discovered 81,200 illicit vape pods with more than 540 Million in tax liability, including penalties. These criminals are now hiding in houses and villages, thinking that we cannot reach them. Think again." Commissioner Lumagui stated.

The perpetrators face possible charges for multiple violations of the National Internal Revenue Code, including: Section 258 – Unlawful Pursuit of Business; Section 263 – Unlawful Possession or Removal of Articles Subject to Excise Tax Without Payment of the Tax; and Section 254 – Attempt to Defeat or Evade Payment of Taxes.

“We call on everyone to report all forms of illicit vape. They are hiding in villages. They are hiding in residential compounds. Once reported and verified, the BIR will raid these locations and file cases against these criminals. Illicit vape criminals have no place in our homes and neighborhoods. They are a threat to the peace and quiet of our residences,” Commissioner Lumagui added.

Commissioner Lumagui urges the public to report retailers and resellers of illicit vape products by providing their names and exact locations. Reports of illegal vape sales conducted online, including website links, are also welcomed. Information may be sent directly to commissioner@bir.gov.ph. 

“Malasakit” in the Halls of Power — How Compassion Became Law

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a nation where access to healthcare is often a battle of both survival and bureaucracy, a simple yet powerful word rose to national prominence: Malasakit — compassion. But behind the noble ideal was a dramatic race against time, tension within the halls of Congress, and a political gamble that would permanently reshape the Philippine health assistance system.

This is the legislative origin story of Republic Act No. 11463, better known as the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. Forget the propaganda. Disregard the personalities. Let’s dive deep into the truth — the dramatic transformation of a presidential initiative into law.

A Seed Planted in Executive Soil

Before it was etched into law, Malasakit was simply an executive dream. Spearheaded by then-Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go during the Duterte administration, the first Malasakit Center opened its doors at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH).

It wasn’t magic — it was machinery. A confluence of government agencies including the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), PhilHealth, and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) working together to create a one-stop-shop where indigent patients could receive streamlined medical financial aid.

But a dream, no matter how impactful, remains fragile without legal spine. Executive initiatives can vanish with the stroke of a new administration. If the vision was to endure, it needed the force of law.

Senate: Where the Fire Was First Lit

On July 2, 2019, Bong Go — now a senator — made his move. He filed Senate Bill No. 199, the first official legislative effort to institutionalize Malasakit Centers across all DOH-run hospitals, in alignment with the Universal Health Care Act.

Two months later, after public hearings and committee refinements, Senate Bill No. 1076 was born. It was no longer just Go’s bill — it was a coalition. Senators Villar, Angara, Pacquiao, Gatchalian, Revilla, Tolentino, Dela Rosa, Marcos, Villanueva, and Senate President Zubiri all signed on.

On November 11, 2019, the Senate, with unwavering consensus, passed SB 1076 on second and third readings. The numbers spoke volumes: 18-0. By then, 49 Malasakit Centers were already active — the groundwork had been laid.

The House Strikes Back — With Turbulence

Meanwhile, across the Capitol in the House of Representatives, efforts were underway — but with a twist.

Rep. Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon filed House Bill No. 1140, inspired by the glaring results of the 2019 Philippine Wellness Index: healthcare was financially out of reach for many. The bill, eventually consolidated into HB 5477, was principally authored by Rep. Angelina “Helen” Tan, with support from a handful of lawmakers including Wes Gatchalian, Joel Almario, Eric Yap, and Jose “Jun” Ong Jr.

But what happened next turned the House into a stage for legislative drama.

On November 13, 2019, the House was prepared to deliberate on its own version. But then came a surprise twist: Deputy Majority Leader Juan Miguel Arroyo motioned to substitute the committee-approved bill with a version identical to the Senate’s.

The chamber fell into protest.

Rep. Edcel Lagman rose in opposition. He called the move “railroading”, decrying the blind replication of the Senate bill without adequate notice or independent scrutiny. “This is a carbon copy,” he said, a lament against legislative surrender.

Still, the motion passed. And with it, House Bill 5477 — now mirroring the Senate’s SB 1076 — was approved with 185 votes in favor, 1 against (Lagman), and 7 abstentions.

Reconciliation Without a Fight

Ordinarily, such divergence would require a bicameral conference committee to iron out differences between House and Senate versions. But with both chambers essentially holding identical documents, the process was bypassed.

Behind closed doors, lawmakers coordinated swiftly. The paperwork was finalized, and the bill was enrolled for presidential signature.

On December 3, 2019, in the grand halls of Malacañang, President Rodrigo Duterte affixed his signature, enshrining Republic Act No. 11463 into law. Senator Bong Go, the bill’s original author and longtime champion of the Malasakit initiative, stood by the President’s side — a full-circle moment.

More Than a Law — A Legacy

The Malasakit Centers Act is now part of Philippine law, requiring the establishment of one-stop-shop medical assistance hubs in every DOH hospital, as well as at the PGH. What began as a single initiative under an executive department has now evolved into a nationwide healthcare system, with legal permanence and bipartisan backing.

And while detractors may argue about methods, authorship, and speed, one fact remains: the Senate acted first, and the House — despite protest — followed. Politics aside, this was a legislative relay that finished strong, carrying a torch lit by those who believed that compassion must not only be felt — it must be enforced by law.

In a country where red tape often suffocates the sick, the Malasakit Centers offer a breath of relief.

A rare instance where political will translated into swift action. A tale of institutionalization through legislation. A moment when lawmakers, across party lines, dared to act not just in politics — but in compassion.

That is the truth behind Republic Act 11463. No spin. Just the facts.

Upon thorough verification using official legislative records and credible news sources, the previously provided article detailing the legislative journey of the Malasakit Centers Act (Republic Act No. 11463) is largely accurate and well-supported by documented facts. Below is a comprehensive fact-check of the key points:

Verified Facts

1. Origins as an Executive Initiative

The Malasakit Center program was initiated under the Duterte administration as an executive initiative. The first center was launched at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) by then-Special Assistant to the President, Christopher “Bong” Go, with support from agencies such as the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

2. Senate Legislative Process

Filing of Senate Bill No. 199: On July 2, 2019, Senator Bong Go filed Senate Bill No. 199, aiming to institutionalize Malasakit Centers in line with the Universal Health Care law. 

Consolidation into Senate Bill No. 1076: After committee hearings, the bill was consolidated into Senate Bill No. 1076, co-authored by Senators Villar, Angara, Pacquiao, Gatchalian, Revilla, Tolentino, Dela Rosa, Marcos, Villanueva, and Zubiri.

Senate Approval: On November 11, 2019, the Senate unanimously approved SB 1076 on third and final reading with an 18–0 vote. 

3. House of Representatives Legislative Process

Filing and Consolidation of House Bills: The original House version, House Bill No. 1140, was filed by Rep. Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon. This bill was later consolidated into House Bill No. 5477, principally authored by Rep. Angelina “Helen” Tan, with co-authors including Ouano-Dizon, Wes Gatchalian, Joel Almario, Eric Yap, and Jose “Jun” Ong Jr.

House Approval and Controversy: On November 13, 2019, the House approved HB 5477 on second reading via voice vote. During the session, Deputy Majority Leader Juan Miguel Arroyo moved to substitute the committee-approved version with a version identical to SB 1076. Rep. Edcel Lagman opposed the move, calling it “railroading” and protesting the lack of prior notice.

Final Reading: The House passed HB 5477 on third and final reading with a vote of 185 in favor, 1 against (Lagman), and 7 abstentions.

4. Enactment into Law

Since the House adopted the Senate version almost word-for-word, a formal bicameral conference committee was no longer needed. Both chambers coordinated directly to enroll the bill for presidential signature. On December 3, 2019, President Rodrigo Duterte signed RA 11463 into law, formally institutionalizing Malasakit Centers nationwide. 

No Misinformation Detected

The article accurately portrays the legislative process and key events leading to the enactment of the Malasakit Centers Act. All significant details, including dates, bill numbers, authors, and voting outcomes, are corroborated by official records and reputable news sources.

Conclusion

The narrative provided offers a factual and comprehensive account of how the Malasakit Centers Act became law. It effectively captures the legislative journey, from its inception as an executive initiative to its institutionalization through bipartisan support in Congress. No inaccuracies or misinformation were identified in the article.