Merck wants Philippines’ regulatory approval for its COVID-19 pill | Evening wRap

Today on Rappler – the latest news in the Philippines and around the world:

• Merck applies for emergency use of COVID-19 pill molnupiravir in PH

Pharmaceutical company Merck & Company applies for emergency use authorization of its COVID-19 pill molnupiravir in the Philippines. Each pill is estimated to cost P100 to P150.

• Comelec extends deadline for Marcos camp to answer anti-BBM petition

The Commission on Elections’ second division grants Bongbong Marcos’ appeal to extend the deadline to answer a petition challenging his candidacy for president. The development comes even as Comelec’s own rule says the five-day period within which to file an answer is ‘non-extendible.’

• Raffy Tulfo’s ‘wife’ asks Comelec to junk his 2022 senatorial bid

A petitioner who claims to be the legal wife of broadcaster and senatorial aspirant Raffy Tulfo wants the Comelec to nullify his candidacy for the 2022 polls.

• Philippines condemns Chinese coast guard’s action in South China Sea

Foreign Secretary Teddy Locsin condemns in the ‘strongest terms’ the actions of three Chinese coast guard vessels that fired water cannons on Philippine vessels.

• Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello confirm breakup

Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello confirm their breakup after more than two years of dating.  – Rappler.com