Could PGMN be a percursor of what awaits us in the next election season? Newly set up “independent” “news” organizations propping up or taking down candidates, seemingly “boosted” by legacy news organizations (that are owned by persons intimately connected to political dynasties), possibly “assisted” by generative AI? In such a landscape, which media organizations will remain trustworthy?

What is happening to the Dutertes is also a reflection of the country’s justice system. If wrongdoing is proven, someone must be held accountable. If they are proven innocent, then the truth must also come to light. But we should not let these issues be the cause of our division.

But it would be foolhardy to presume that positive developments such as the case of Carandang spells the end of the Dutertes’ malevolent empire.As more information emerges to support and explain the entries in the Dutertes’ bank accounts, a sprawling, multi-layered network comes into view—one they will fight to protect.That makes the 2028 elections all the more crucial.