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

• Remulla says appeals related to son’s offenses will not go through DOJ

Justice Secretary Boying Remulla says appeals related to his son’s drug offenses will not go through his own department. 

• Suspect in killing of broadcaster Percy Lapid surrenders

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos says the suspect in the killing of broadcaster Percy Lapid surrendered to the authorities.

• Philippines detects first cases of COVID-19 XBB subvariant

The Health Department confirms cases of the COVID-19 XBB subvariant are detected in the Philippines. DOH Officer-in-Charge Maria Rosario Vergeire says 81 cases of the Omicron XBB subvariant are detected in two regions in the country.

• Iloilo City’s ‘Undas’ rules allow only vaccinated folk to visit cemeteries

Only fully or partially vaccinated individuals will be allowed into Iloilo City cemeteries from October 31 to November 2, the days Filipinos celebrate All Souls’ Day and All Saints’ Day.

• Shares in BTS’ management rise after band clears uncertainty over military service

The announcement of K-pop mega band BTS on their mandatory military service puts shareholders at ease. Investors in BTS’ management group HYBE drive its shares up as much as 7.8% on Tuesday, October 18.

• ENHYPEN holding two-night concert in Manila in 2023

Filipino ENGENEs, this is it! K-pop boy group ENHYPEN is bringing their MANIFESTO world tour to the Philippines. 

• Nam Joo-hyuk to enlist in military in December

South Korean star Nam Joo-hyuk will enlist for his mandatory military service in December. In a Soompi report, Joo-hyuk’s agency Management SOOP says the exact enlistment date has not been finalized. — Rappler.com