#ThewRap: Things you need to know, February 19, 2017

Hello Rappler readers,

It was a throwback of sorts for US President Donald Trump, who delivered a fiery campaign-style speech before his supporters in Florida. Trump told them all’s well at the White House, and again slammed the US media.

Here in the Philippines, Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II said Senator Leila de Lima shouldn’t consider herself a “political prisoner,” while in Brazil, the impeached Dilma Rousseff is eyeing a political comeback.

Below are the big stories you shouldn’t miss.

Trump: Media ‘part of corrupt system’

US President Donald Trump again ranted about the media in a speech in Florida, accusing journalists of being “part of the corrupt system.” He also said the White House is “running so smoothly.” 

Aguirre: Charges vs De Lima not politically motivated

Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II denied the drug charges against Senator Leila de Lima are politically motivated. He said that’s why De Lima can’t call herself a “political prisoner.”

Impeached Brazil president won’t give up politics

Dilma Rousseff, Brazil’s former president who was impeached 6 months ago, said she’s not ruling out the possibility of running for senator or deputy in the future. Rousseff said, “I will never give up politics.”

4 hurt in ferry-barge collision off Cebu

Four people were injured after a SuperCat ferry collided with a barge in Cebu waters. The Philippine Coast Guard said the ferry was being towed when it collided with San Miguel Barge No 8. 

Jack Ma invests in Globe’s Mynt

Chinese tycoon Jack Ma has invested in Globe Telecom’s financial technology arm Mynt, through his company Ant Financial Services Group. This is Ant Financial’s first-ever investment in the Philippines.