Carla Abellana, Rafael Rosell, ‘Because of You’ win in Faces of Vietnam 2020
PH Red Cross holds pilot saliva Covid-19 testing
MANILA, Jan 13 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on Tuesday launched its saliva RT-PCR pilot testing for Covid-19 in compliance with the requirements of the Department of Health (DOH). PRC chairman Senator Richard Gordon said if given the green light, the new testing method can be a game-changer in Covid-19 testing. “It’s a […]
NTC ordered to penalize ISPs enabling online child sexual abuse
MANILA, Jan 12 (Mabuhay)– Malacañang has directed the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to immediately impose sanctions on internet service providers (ISPs) that allow their platforms to be used for online child exploitation. In a virtual press briefing on Tuesday, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said the rise of cases of online sexual abuse and exploitation of […]
Solon urges compassion for foreigners stranded due to pandemic
MANILA, Jan 12 (Mabuhay) — A lawmaker is calling on the government to be hospitable and compassionate with foreigners stranded in the Philippines due to travel restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Bohol Representative Alexie Tutor on Monday filed House Resolution 1466 urging different government agencies to extend help to these foreign nationals whose […]
Pia Wurtzbach, Jeremy Jauncey reflect on first year as couple
MANILA, Jan 12 (Mabuhay) –December 31 was extra special for Pia Wurtzbach and Jeremy Jauncey. Not only was it the New Year’s eve, but it was also the day they marked their anniversary as a couple. On Instagram, both shared touching messages for each other as they reflected on their first year together. Posting a […]
5 months after giving birth, Isabel Oli says getting back old figure is ‘just a bonus’
MANILA, Jan 11 (Mabuhay)– More than five months since she gave birth to her third child, Isabel Oli acknowledged that getting back into shape has also been three times harder. Oli mentioned this in one of her first Instagram posts this 2021 as she shared photos from their family vacation in their Batangas resort. “Trying […]
PH signs deal to secure 30M doses of Covovax
MANILA, Jan 11 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine government, represented by vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., Serum Institute of India (SII), and Faberco Life Sciences, Inc. signed a term sheet on Saturday to secure 30 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine Covovax that will be available starting third quarter of this year. “This is a significant […]
Duque says deal sealed for 25M doses of Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine
MANILA, Jan 11 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines has secured some 25 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine from Chinese firm Sinovac, with the initial batch expected by February, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III announced Sunday. According to Duque, the succeeding batches are expected to arrive until the end of 2021, to complement those from British […]
PH expands ban to Austria travelers over new COVID-19 variant
MANILA, Jan 9 (Mabuhay) — Foreign travelers from Austria are banned from entering the Philippines starting Jan. 10 until Jan. 15, Malacañang said Friday, after the new South African COVID-19 variant was detected in the European country. “Relative to the detection of a new South African COVID-19 variant, the Office of the President, through the […]
Jennylyn Mercado, Dennis Trillo mark 7th anniversary as a couple
MANILA, Jan 9 (Mabuhay) — Actress Jennylyn Mercado and Dennis Trillo marked their seventh anniversary as a couple. In his Instagram post, Trillo shared a clip of their anniversary date, while Mercado posted a photo of her and Trillo with their respective sons. “If 2020 taught us anything, it’s to not take anything for granted,” […]
FDA approves clinical trial for Clover COVID-19 vaccine
MANILA, Jan 9 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ Food and Drug Administration approved Friday the clinical trial for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine developed by Chinese firm Clover Biopharmaceuticals AUS Pty Ltd. Before securing the go signal from FDA, the Department of Science and Technology – Vaccine Expert Panel (DOST-VEP) and the Single Joint Ethics […]
AFP: Reds staged over 500 Attacks on Civilian properties over last decade
MANILA, Jan 8 (Mabuhay) — A total of 532 incidents of attacks on civilian properties were perpetrated by communist groups since 2010, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) alleged on Friday. Most of the attacks were dome through torching of private properties committed by members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National […]
China not on travel restriction list: Palace
MANILA, Jan 8 (Mabuhay) — China is not on the Philippines’ list of nations covered by a temporary travel ban to curb the spread of the new strain of coronavirus because international agencies have yet to confirm that it has indeed entered the East Asian country, Malacañang said Thursday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this […]
Bea Alonzo claims 2021 will be a ‘spiritual year’ for her
MANILA, Jan 7 (Mabuhay)– Actress Bea Alonzo took to social media to share her realizations on life as she welcomes the new year. On Instagram, Alonzo said she hopes to emerge a better person in 2021. “Let the sunshine in. Last year brought so many changes in my life, and changes can be terrifying when […]
PH bans entry of foreigners from 6 more countries
MANILA, Jan 7 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines has added six more countries to the list of nations covered by temporary travel restrictions to prevent the spread of the new strain of coronavirus discovered in the United Kingdom, Malacañang announced on Wednesday night. “The Office of the President, upon the joint recommendation of the Department of […]
Philippine vaccine deals with Moderna, Pfizer likely in two weeks’ time, says envoy
MANILA, Jan 7 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines will know in two weeks’ time how many vaccines against COVID-19 it could get from Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech, Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez said Thursday. Romualdez said Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., the country’s vaccine czar, is set to sign contracts with the two pharmaceutical companies […]
Andrea Brillantes fulfills ‘most difficult dream’ that’s been 10 years in the making
MANILA, Jan 6 (Mabuhay)– Andrea Brillantes felt extremely proud after fulfilling one of her biggest dreams that was 10 years in the making. On her Instagram page, Brillantes shared a photo of her new house which she built from her earnings as an actress and an endorser. “You were my longest (10 years) and most […]
Hong Kong: Traveler from Philippines had UK variant of COVID-19
MANILA, Jan 6 (Mabuhay) — A passenger from the Philippines has been identified by Hong Kong authorities as having tested positive for the UK variant of COVID-19. Dr. Chuang Shuk-kwan, head of the Communicable Disease Branch of Hong Kong’s Center for Health Protection, said the traveler arrived in Hong Kong on board Philippine Airlines flight […]
No presence of UK variant of new coronavirus yet in Philippines –DOH
MANILA, Jan 6 (Mabuhay) — The UK variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus causing COVID-19 disease, identified as B.1.1.7, has not been detected in the country just yet, the Department of Health (DOH) said Wednesday. The DOH issued the statement after Hong Kong health authorities reported that the new variant has been detected in one of […]
Duterte signs four new laws — Sotto
MANILA, Jan 5 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte signed four new bills into law, Senate President Vicente Sotto III said Monday. In a message to reporters, Sotto said the newly signed laws were: Doktor Para sa Bayan Act (Republic Act 11509) Alternative Learning System (ALS) Act (Republic Act 11510) Amendments to Organic Agriculture Act of […]
Sotto moves for ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal
MANILA, Dec 5 (Mabuhay) — Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Monday moved for the franchise renewal of broadcast media giant ABS-CBN Corporation, six months after the House committee on legislative franchises voted to deny its application. Senate Bill No. 1967, authored by Sotto, seeks to renew the franchise granted to ABS-CBN to construct, install, […]
PH Covid-19 recoveries rise by 8K to 448,258
MANILA, Jan 4 (Mabuhay)– The country’s total number of recovered cases from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) climbed to 448,258, after 8,316 more recovered from the disease, the Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday said. In its 4 p.m. case bulletin, the DOH said the figures represent 93.8 percent of those who tested positive for […]
Kris Bernal bids goodbye to 2020: ‘Staying alive is my greatest achievement’
MANILA, Jan 4 (Mabuhay)– As the New Year arrives, Kris Bernal reflects on the year that was 2020. “Staying alive is my greatest achievement this 2020,” the Kapuso actress said in an Instagram post. She also assured her fans that it was okay if they “did not do much” this year. “This year is not […]
Chinese COVID-19 vaccine makers to seek Philippine use greenlight this week — envoy
MANILA, Jan 4 (Mabuhay)–Two Chinese makers of vaccines against the novel coronavirus will seek emergency use authorization (EUA) in the Philippines “sometime this week”, Manila’s envoy to Beijing said on Monday. An EUA will authorize a vaccine’s use in the Philippines after a quicker than usual, 21-day study by the Food and Drug Administration. Beijing-backed […]
234 FILIPINOS REPATRIATED FROM UAE, BAHRAIN ON NEW YEAR’S DAY
MANILA, Jan 2 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs ushered in the new year by repatriating 234 Filipinos from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain via a chartered Philippine Airlines flight that arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport from Manama on early Friday morning. “We at DFA are humbled by this experience. […]
ISABELA, ILOILO CITY RECLASSIFIED TO MGCQ FOR JANUARY– PALACE
MANILA, Jan 2 (Mabuhay) — Isabela province and Iloilo City have been downgraded to least stringent modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Malacañang said on Friday. In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said only National Capital Region (NCR); provinces of Batangas, Lanao del Sur, and Davao del Norte; […]
EVEN NADINE LUSTRE FEARED BEING A ‘HAS BEEN’ AT ONE POINT
MANILA, Jan 2 (Mabuhay)– Nadine Lustre reached a point of fearing she would become a “has been” in showbiz, as she found opportunity for introspection during the earlier part of the coronavirus lockdown, she said. The actress, 27, spoke candidly on the topic in a conversation with her friend, entrepreneur and motoring expert Angie Mead […]
SHAINA MAGDAYAO CONSIDERS MMFF AWARD A ‘BEAUTIFUL YEAREND SURPRISE’
MANILA, Jan 1 (Mabuhay) — “What a beautiful yearend surprise, Lord!” These were the words of Shaina Magdayao as she won Best Supporting Actress at the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2020 Awards for her performance in the movie “Tagpuan.” The actress took to social media to express her gratitude to all those who made […]
PINOYS FROM UK, 19 OTHER NATIONS MUST COMPLETE 14-DAY QUARANTINE
MANILA, Jan 1 (Mabuhay)– Filipinos arriving from the United Kingdom and 19 other countries where a potentially more transmissible coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) variant was found must complete their 14-day quarantine at a government facility, notwithstanding a negative RT-PCR result, National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19 Deputy Chief Implementer Vince Dizon said Thursday. The advisory […]
FDA DECISION ON PFIZER’S COVID-19 VACCINE APPLICATION OUT BEFORE END OF JANUARY — DOMINGO
MANILA, Jan 1 (Mabuhay) — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will decide on Pfizer’s emergency use authorization for its COVID-19 vaccine before the end of January 2021, FDA Director General Eric Domingo said Thursday. Domingo said while the evaluation of new vaccines usually take three to six months, the COVID-19 pandemic and the Executive […]
Sanya Lopez admits getting starstruck with Nora Aunor in ‘Isa Pang Bahaghari’
MANILA, Dec 31 (Mabuhay)– Sanya Lopez admitted that she got starstruck with Nora Aunor in their Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) movie “Isa Pang Bahaghari.” Sanya’s performance in the film received rave reviews from the press. The Kapuso actress said it was thanks to the help of Director Joel Lamangan and also because she felt […]
Janella Salvador says ‘Filipinos are the worst body shamers’
MANILA, Dec 30 (Mabuhay) — Janella Salvador took to social media to express her disappointment in people who subject others to body-shaming. On Twitter, Salvador wrote: “Filipinos are the worst body shamers.” Shrugging off the negative energy, she added: “Let me enjoy my christmas pudding in peace. Happy holidays to you too!” While there was […]
Metro Manila, 9 other areas remain under GCQ until Jan. 31
MANILA, Dec 29 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night announced that Metro Manila and nine other areas in the country will remain under general community quarantine (GCQ) status until January 31, 2021. In a taped public address, Duterte said the provinces of Batangas, Isabela, Lanao del Sur, Davao del Norte, and cities of […]
Iza Calzado, Ian Veneracion start work on new rom-com series
MANILA, Dec 29 (Mabuhay) — Ian Veneracion and Iza Calzado are reuniting for another project that their fans should look forward to. As early as January 2021, Veneracion and Calzado will start shooting the WeTV original series “B&B: The Battle Between Brody and Brandy.” Calzado and Veneracion will play the lead characters Brody and Brandy, […]
Philippine travel ban expanded to 20 countries amid threat of new coronavirus variant —officials
MANILA, Dec 29 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine government has expanded to 20 countries the travel ban in connection with the threat of a new coronavirus variant initially found in the United Kingdom, at least three government officials said Tuesday. “We expanded the ban to 20 countries. Hahaba po ang listhahan na ‘yan,” Health Secretary Francisco […]
Unauthorized use of COVID-19 vaccine illegal, FDA says after Duterte’s PSG inoculated
MANILA, Dec 29 (Mabuhay)– The Food and Drug Administration on Monday said it has yet to approve any COVID-19 vaccine candidate for local use, despite admission of government officials that some members of President Rodrigo Duterte’s security group were already inoculated with China’s Sinopharm vaccine. “As of date the FDA has not issued any Emergency […]
PH yet to ban travel from other nations with new COVID-19 strain: AÑO
MANILA, Dec 28 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines would not yet ban travel from other countries with the new COVID-19 strain found in the UK unless there’s community transmission there, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said Sunday. Beginning Dec. 24, Manila already suspended flights coming from the UK, where a new coronavirus strain has been detected. It […]
New SARS-COV-2 variant doesn’t make vaccines ineffective
MANILA, Dec 28 (Mabuhay)– It is early to tell whether the existence of the new variant of SARS-CoV-2 found in the United Kingdom will affect the development of vaccines against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) and the immunity of those who have been inoculated in other countries, health experts said Sunday. In a virtual media […]
Tourists can now get P750 RT-PCR test at PCMC — DOT
MANILA, Dec 28 (Mabuhay)– Tourists can now apply for a PHP750 reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test at the Philippine Children’s Medical Center (PCMC), the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced Monday. During the signing of a memorandum agreement with PCMC, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said the DOT, through the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), will earmark […]
Roque: EUA filed for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
MANILA, Dec 27 (Mabuhay) — Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque on Saturday said that Pfizer-BioNTech had applied for an emergency use authorization (EUA) for its vaccine, which may allow it to be the first to be made available in the country. “On Pfizer, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Director-General Rolando Domingo confirmed that it filed for […]
Anti-Terrorism Council tags CPP-NPA, Islamic State East Asia, Maute and associated groups as ‘terrorists’
MANILA, Dec 26 (Mabuhay) — The Anti-Terrorism Council has begun the controversial process of designating who may be considered by authorities as “terrorists” and “terrorist groups” under the new Anti-Terror law, which may have implications on freezing of assets. This follows five months since the controversial Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 was signed into law, despite […]
Philippines may revert to stricter quarantine if new cases reach 4K daily — expert
MANILA, Dec 26 (Mabuhay)– The Philippines may need to return to stricter quarantine classification to control the spread of COVID-19 as cases are feared to skyrocket after the holiday season. Philippine College of Physicians vice president Dr. Maricar Limpin said the doctors’ group agreed with the Department of Health (DOH) and OCTA Research team’s projection […]
Morissette and Dave Lamar are engaged
MANILA, Dec 25 (Mabuhay) — Morissette and her fellow singer Dave Lamar are engaged to wed, the “Akin Ka Na Lang” hitmaker announced. Morissette, 24, shared on Instagram photos of her and Lamar, 30, with her engagement ring on display. “More than just an 11:11 wish, you’re an answered prayer. I love you @davejlamar, always […]
DOST: Despite 50% effectivity, PH still can’t use Sinovac sans full data
MANILA, Dec 25 (Mabuhay) — The COVID-19 vaccine of China’s Sinovac Biotech may be deemed “acceptable” to minimum global standards, but the Philippines still needs to review the full data on its effectivity before it can be used, an official of the Department of Science and Technology stressed on Thursday. Citing the World Health Organization, […]
1,196 New Covid-19 cases push Philippines’ tally over 464,000
MANILA, Dec 24 (Mabuhay) — The number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines rose to 464,004 on Wednesday after the Department of Health (DOH) reported 1,196 new infections as eight laboratories failed to submit data on time. Quezon City registered the highest number of new cases at 123, followed by Rizal with […]
Bea Alonzo admits she’ll always be in love with this Actor
MANILA, Dec 24 (Mabuhay)– Bea Alonzo and John Lloyd Cruz have denied numerous times being involved romantically in real-life amid the enduring popularity of their love team. However, in an interview with celebrity doctor Aivee Teo, Alonzo admitted that she has always been in love with Cruz, her longtime on-screen partner. “I’m always in love […]
Pfizer-biotech, moderna Covid-19 vaccines possibly Philippines’ first
MANILA, Dec 24 (Mabuhay) — COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna could be the first ones to be made available in the country if negotiations prosper, an official of the Department of Science and Techology said Thursday. In a public briefing, DOST–Philippine Council for Health Research Development executive director Jaime Montoya said the possibility of […]
Palace leaves fate of proposed death penalty revival to congress
MANILA, Dec 23 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Tuesday said it would let Congress decide on the fate of the proposed reinstatement of the death penalty in the country. President Rodrigo Duterte wants to restore the capital punishment in the Philippines but his plan would only be possible once he gets the support of lawmakers, Presidential […]
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New Covid strain may cause holiday surge to worsen if it enters Ph -expert
MANILA, Dec 23 (Mabuhay) — The more infectious new COVID-19 variant may worsen the Philippines’ holiday surge if it enters the country, an infectious disease expert said Wednesday. President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the suspension of flights from the UK to the Philippines from Dec. 24, 12:01 a.m. until Dec. 31, Malacañang said. The new […]
More time for Family,loved ones: Pia Wurtzbach shares new year’s resolution
MANILA. Dec 22 (Mabuhay) — With the start of the new year comes a new set of goals for many, including former Miss Universe titleholder Pia Wurtzbach. “As much as we didn’t like this year, I think it taught us so many lessons like not taking the little things for granted anymore and going back […]
Gov’t urged to close borders to UK travelers due to new Covid-19 strain
MANILA, Dec 22 (Mabuhay) — A public health expert on Tuesday urged government to close its borders to the United Kingdom following the discovery of a new strain of COVID-19. The Philippines can implement border control for a week and wait for the World Health Organization’s statement, according to Dr. Tony Leachon, a former adviser […]
OFWs in Qatar to get free Covid-19 vaccines: Labor Office
MANILA, Dec 22 (Mabuhay) — Filipino workers are among those included in the inoculation of free coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines in Qatar, a Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) official in the host country reported on Monday. “The general population of Qatar, including migrant workers, will be given free vaccines,” Labor Attaché David Des Dicang […]
IATF to tackle new Covid-19 strain in UK in next meeting
MANILA, Dec 22 (Mabuhay) — The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) will be discussing efforts to prevent the entry of a new strain of coronavirus emerging in the United Kingdom (UK), Malacañang said Monday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this remark after more nations have started imposing travel bans […]
Kc Concepcion quizzes Matteo about married life
MANILA, Dec 19 (Mabuhay) — KC Concepcion could not stop gushing about how her good friend, pop superstar Sarah Geronimo, has already been married for 10 months. Concepcion repeatedly made this known to Geronimo’s husband, Matteo Guidicelli, who was her guest in the latest episode of her online show “Kitchen Collabs.” While learning how to […]
Richard Yap hopes to work with Michael V. and do comedy now that he’s a kapuso
MANILA, Dec 21 (Mabuhay)– Now that’s officially a Kapuso, Richard Yap said he is hoping to do comedy projects and get to work with Kapuso comedy genius Michael V. “We’re planning to experiment into all genres right now. We can do comedy, we can do action, we can do romcom again. We’re really open to […]
DOH: No new strain of virus causing Covid-19 in Philippines yet
MANILA, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) has yet to see a new strain of the virus that causes COVID-19 in the Philippines, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said Monday. Vergeire was responding to a query on a new strain of the virus that causes COVID-19 and linked to mutations involving spike […]
PH Covid-19 Recoveries now than 429K
MANILA, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday said the country logged 8,080 new recoveries from coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), pushing the total number of recovered cases to 429,134. In its latest bulletin, the DOH said the figures meant 93 percent of those who tested positive for the virus have so […]
IATF oks foreigners’ re-entry to PH
MANILA, Dec 18 (Mabuhay) — The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) has allowed the re-entry of foreigners who were in the Philippines but temporarily left since December 17, Malacañang said on Friday. “The IATF, in its 89th meeting, also allowed the re-entry to the Philippines of foreign nationals with […]
Bea Alonzo, Alden Richards to star in Ph adaptation of ‘A moment to remember
MANILA, Dec 18 (Mabuhay)–It’s a dream come true for actor Alden Richards as he is set to do a movie with Bea Alonzo. Alonzo and Richards are set to star in the Philippine adaptation of the hit Korean film “A Moment to Remember.” The Korean film, which was was based in 2001 Japanese drama “Pure […]
Moderna, Acturus ready to supply up to 25M Covid-19 vaccines tp the Philippines ,says envoy
MANILA, Dec 18 (Mabuhay) — Two more American biopharmaceutical firms Moderna and Arcturus are ready to supply four to 25 million of their respective COVID-19 vaccines to the Philippines, Manila’s top diplomat to Washington said Friday. Philippine Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez said the vaccines will be ready beginning third quarter of 2021 should the Philippine […]
Philippines in talks with China for its First Covid-19 vaccine shot in March 2021
MANILA, Dec 17 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines is in talks with China for the first vaccine against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) that is expected to be administered in the country in March 2021. Secretary Carlito Galvez, the chairman of the national task force for COVID-19 response, made the remark after President Rodrigo Duterte asked in […]
Isabelle Daza pregnant with second child
MANILA, Dec 17 (Mabuhay) — Actress Isabelle Daza revealed that she is pregnant with her second child with husband Andrien Semblat. On Instagram, Daza shared the good news as she promoted her line of activewear and life-intervention-wear. “btw 21 weeks today,” Daza wrote in the caption. Following her announcement, the actress’ fans and friends flooded […]
DOH, Octa research: surge of Covid-19 cases ‘very likely’ during, after holiday season
MANILA, Dec 17 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) and OCTA Research team said a surge in the number of COVID-19 cases in the country is very likely during and after the holiday season. At a press conference on Thursday, DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said the Philippines may record more infections like the […]
Palace confident ICC will reject probe into drug war
MANILA, Dec 16 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang is confident that International Criminal Court (ICC) judges will eventually decide against opening a preliminary investigation into the Duterte administration’s anti-illegal drugs campaign. In a Palace press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this remark after ICC Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said her office allegedly found “reasonable basis” to believe […]
Kim Chiu downplays perceived stature in Star Magic after contract-signing
MANILA, Dec 15 (Mabuhay) — Kim Chiu on Tuesday downplayed the perception that she has been elevated as a “queen” of Star Magic, following her recent contract renewal with the talent agency and its mother network ABS-CBN. The actress, whose career now spans 14 years and has been dubbed her generation’s “Teleserye Princess,” signed last […]
Sinas warns partygoers of arrest
MANILA, Dec 15 (Mabuhay) — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Debold Sinas has given a warning to the public that those who will attend parties this Christmas season will be arrested. “Yes, bawal… Bawal ang party…” Sinas said when asked by reporters on Monday if he would immediately order the arrest of partygoers. […]
Jessy Mendiola, luis manzano
MANILA, Dec 14 (Mabuhay) — Television host Luis Manzano and actress Jessy Mendiola are engaged, the couple announced, the latest milestone in a 4-year relationship that has survived intrigue and at times intense public scrutiny. Leading up to the engagement, Manzano, 39, and Mendiola, 28 had clued in fans on the big event through social […]
COVID-19 health protocols enforced more strictly this holiday season — Año
MANILA, Dec 14 (Mabuhay) — Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año on Sunday said the enforcement of minimum health protocols against the spread of COVID-19 is stricter this Christmas season. Año said police visibility will be improved while barangay authorities will conduct patrols in concerned areas to remind them of these measures. “Pagpasok ng […]
OCTA Research: COVID-19 cases to reach close to 500,000 as Christmas festivities start
MANILA, Dec 14 (Mabuhay) — The number of COVID-19 cases in the country will reach close to 500,000 by the end of the year, Dr. Guido David of OCTA Research said Monday. David said their projection, due in a few days, is because of the looming Christmas celebrations after nine months and counting in quarantine. […]
China requires 2 Covid-19 tests for Filipino seafarers — POEA
MANILA, Dec 12 (Mabuhay) — All Filipino seafarers bound for China are required to take not only one but two coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) tests before they will be allowed to enter the host country, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) said on Friday. In an advisory, the agency said aside from a nucleic acid […]
AstraZeneca withdraws bid for COVID-19 vaccine trials in Philippines
MANILA, Dec 12 (Mabuhay) — British pharmaceutical firm AstraZenecahas withdrawn its application to conduct clinical trials in the Philippines for its vaccine against COVID-19, Food and Drug Administration director general Dr. Eric Domingo said on Friday. Domingo said AstraZeneca indicated that it already had sufficient data to see the efficacy of its vaccine. Domingo, however, […]
Videoke session allowed in homes but no neighbors — DILG
MANILA, Dec 11 (Mabuhay) — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday said indoor videoke singing sessions limited to members of a household is allowed. In a Laging Handa briefing, DILG Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya, however, said inviting neighbors to join the singing session is a different story. “Wala naman pong masama […]
No Christmas COVID lockdown unless cases spike — DOH
MANILA, Dec 11 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health on Friday said there will be no adjustment of the general community quarantine in Metro Manila unless COVID-19 cases spike. Health Secretary Francisco Duque III rejected rumors that the government would impose a stricter COVID-19 lockdown before Christmas. “Hindi mababago. Nasa GCQ pa rin tayo, walang […]
Malacañang says drug-free PH by 2022 still possible
MANILA, Dec 11 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Thursday expressed confidence that President Rodrigo Duterte would still be able to fulfill his promise of a drug-free Philippines before he steps down in 2022. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made the statement after Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) Chairman Catalino Cuy said achieving a drug-free Philippines by 2022 is […]
Despite bribery claim, China’s Sinovac still Philippines’ first COVID-19 vaccine pick — Palace
MANILA, Dec 11 (Mabuhay)– The vaccine candidate from China’s Sinovac Biotech remains the Philippines’ first choice in its inoculation drive against the novel coronavirus, Malacañang said Thursday, despite an allegation that the drug maker had bribed Beijing’s drug regulator. A Washington Post report said court records show that Sinovac, which is also applying to run […]
DOT backs proposed ‘COVID-19 passport,’ says its vital to reviving int’l air travel
MANILA, Dec 10 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Tourism (DOT) is backing a proposal to require international air travelers to indicate their inoculation and virus infection history through a so-called “COVID-19 passport.” The idea of a “global COVID-19 passport” – which will indicate if a person is already vaccinated – was floated by Cebu Pacific […]
Do You Have Too Much Debt And Not Enough Income?
By: Attorney Ray J. Bulaon Are your growing debts starting to worry you and cause you sleepless nights? Are you trying hard to pay what you can every month but feel like you’re just running on a treadmill and not getting anywhere? Do you dread getting those credit card statements every month knowing that you […]
DTI chief tests positive for Covid-19
MANILA, Dec 9 (Mabuhay)– Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez bared Wednesday he tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). “I had myself swabbed Sunday after exposure last Tuesday from a person who tested positive,” Lopez told trade reporters in a Viber message. Lopez said he received his Covid-19 test result Monday, […]
Newly hired nurses now allowed to leave PH
MANILA, Dec 9 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has officially lifted the temporary ban on the deployment of newly-hired nurses. In Governing Board Resolution (GBR) No. 17 dated Dec. 7 and released Tuesday, the agency allowed newly hired nurses, nursing aides, and nursing assistants to go abroad. “The moratorium or temporary suspension […]
Alex Gonzaga, fiancé Mikee Morada reach new milestone
MANILA, Dec 9 (Mabuhay) — Actress-host Alex Gonzaga and her fiancé, Mikee Morada, have reached a new milestone, as they announced Tuesday the construction of their future home. On Instagram, Gonzaga shared a photo of her with Morada, with a demolished structure in the background. “Our demolish is halfway done to build our new and […]
Baguio approves hike in tourist slots to 1,000 per day
MANILA, Dec 9 (Mabuhay) — Despite the increase in coronavirus infections in Baguio, the local government has approved a proposal to increase the number of tourists who can visit the city per day from 500 to 1,000. The local government also eased some of the restrictions on tourism in the area in order to allow […]
Luis Manzano admits he never really wanted to become a host
MANILA, Dec 8 (Mabuhay) — Luis Manzano may now be considered the go-to guy when hosting comes to mind but he confessed it is not something that he has always wanted to do. Reflecting on his career with Toni Gonzaga for “I Feel U,” Manzano revealed he actually wanted to become a doctor or a […]
3 vaccine makers hurdle PH’s ethics review; Moderna, Pfizer consider application — DOH
MANILA, Dec 8 (Mabuhay)– Three COVID-19 vaccine makers seeking to run clinical trials in the Philippines passed the country’s ethics review board, one of the requirements needed before undergoing evaluation by the Food and Drug Administration, an official said Monday. “Approved na rin sa ethics review board ang Janssen, ang AstraZeneca at saka yung Clover,” […]
Netherlands announces P55.5-M disaster relief fund for PH
MANILA, Dec 7 (Mabuhay) — The Dutch Embassy in Manila on Friday announced a EUR950,000 (approximately PHP55.5 million) disaster relief fund to help the Philippines weeks after typhoons Rolly and Ulysses battered the country. Of the total aid, some EUR600,000 (around PHP35 million) will be provided by the Netherlands government while the additional EUR350,000 (approximately […]
Actress Bettina Carlos ties the knot
MANILA, Dec 7 (Mabuhay)– Actress Bettina Carlos married her partner Mikki Eduardo recently. “This is the day the Lord has made,” Carlos wrote on Instagram, sharing a photo of her bridal bouquet. The Christian wedding ceremony was held at a garden venue with a view of Taal Lake, as seen in updates from Carlos’ brother, […]
Taguig records 98.44% COVID-19 recovery rate
MANILA, Dec 7 (Mabuhay) — The COVID-19 recovery rate in Taguig City has increased to more than 98%, the city government said on Monday. According to the local government, the COVID-19 recovery rate in the city is already at 98.44%, which is higher than the recovery rate in the entire National Capital Region at 95.19%. […]
Metro Manila Council says no public gatherings for New Year; fireworks displays to be regulated
MANILA, Dec 7 (Mabuhay) — Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Filipinos in the National Capital Region will not be allowed to hold street parties or other public gatherings that are a staple of New Year’s celebrations, Parañaque Mayor and Metro Manila Council (MMC) chairman Edwin Olivarez has said. The MMC stressed the need for social distancing […]
DOH records 92.9% Covid-19 recovery rate
MANILA, Dec 7 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday said 92.9 percent of those who tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) have recovered. In its latest bulletin, the DOH said the country logged 9,062 new recoveries, pushing the total number of recovered cases to 408,634. It also reported 1,768 new […]
PH debt breaches P10-T mark in October as COVID-19 related borrowing continues
MANILA, Dec 5 (Mabuhay)– The national government’s debt reached P10.03 trillion at the end of October, the Bureau of Treasury said on Friday. This grew by P658.81 billion or 7.03 percent from last month “primarily due to external and domestic loan availment,” the Treasury said. Compared to the same month a year ago, the debt […]
Gov’t eyeing COVID quarantine-free Philippines by Q3 next year — DOH
MANILA, Dec 4 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine government is planning to lift COVID-19 quarantine protocols in the entire country by the third quarter of 2021, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said Friday. Vergeire made the remark in response to the comment of National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Director General Karl Chua that the country is […]
Roque, Pacquiao quarantine breach probe completed next week — PNP
MANILA, Dec 4 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday said its probe on the alleged violations of health protocols by Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque and Senator Emmanuel Pacquiao is expected to be completed next week. PNP chief, Gen. Debold Sinas, said the results of the investigation would then be submitted to Interior […]
Los Baños, Laguna mayor Caesar Perez shot dead inside municipal hall
MANILA, Dec 4 (Mabuhay) — Los Baños, Laguna mayor Caesar Perez was shot dead inside the municipal hall on Thursday evening. Los Baños Police said Perez was shot at around 9 p.m. Perez was among the 46 “narco politicians” named by President Rodrigo Duterte who faced complaints filed against him by the Department of the […]
Minors still not allowed to go out in NCR, says MMDA exec
MANILA, Dec 3 (Mabuhay) — Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) general manager Jojo Garcia on Thursday announced that minors are still not allowed to go out in Metro Manila, which is still under general community quarantine. At a virtual press briefing, Garcia said this was agreed upon during a meeting of Metro Manila mayors on […]
Manny Pacquiao is new president of Duterte’s PDP-Laban
MANILA, Dec 3 (Mabuhay) — Senator Manny Pacquiao is now the president of President Rodrigo Duterte’s party PDP-Laban, a party official said on Wednesday night. Party executive director Ron Munsayac said Speaker Lord Allan Velasco was the party’s new executive vice president. “Let’s welcome our new PDP-Laban party President Sen. Manny Pacquiao & EVP Speaker […]
DOST: VCO diminished COVID-19 symptoms of suspect, probable cases in study
MANILA, Dec 3 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Science and Technology has seen a positive result on a study where virgin coconut oil was used as a supplement for suspect and probable cases of COVID-19. DOST Secretary Fortunato dela Peña said in a virtual conference that there were 58 quarantined participants from Sta. Rosa Community […]
4 regions are epicenters of COVID-19 cases — OCTA Research
MANILA, Dec 2 (Mabuhay) — An expert from the OCTA Research team on Tuesday identified four regions considered as epicenters of COVID-19 cases in the country. In a public briefing, Dr. Guido David said the epicenters are the National Capital Region, Davao Region, Calabarzon, and some parts of Central Luzon. “Ang epicenters ngayon nasa Metro […]
AFP chief calls for end to youth radicalization
MANILA, Dec 2 (Mabuhay) — Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay called for a stop to the “radicalization of dissent” among the youth, saying progressive groups recruiting them have become a “spawning pool” for New People’s Army fighters. Gapay said on Tuesday the three Senate hearings on “red-tagging”, as claimed by […]
Security of tenure bill gets final House nod
MANILA, Dec 2 (Mabuhay) — The House of Representatives on Tuesday approved on third reading a measure strengthening the security of tenure of workers in the private sector. With 204 affirmative votes, seven negative votes, and three abstentions, the chamber passed on final reading the proposed “Security of Tenure Act”, which seeks to amend Presidential […]
Daniel Padilla is all set financially by the time he turns 35
MANILA, Dec 1 (Mabuhay) — If he chooses to do so, Kapamilya star Daniel Padilla can already retire at 35. That’s because according to his mother Karla Estrada, Padilla, who is now 25 years old, will be financially secure in 10 years. “Mayroon naman siyang savings niya na. He’s good. At 35, he’s good kahit […]
Duterte: NCR, several other areas under GCQ vs. COVID-19
MANILA, Dec 1 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has extended anew the general community quarantine in Metro Manila until December 31, 2020 to control the spread of COVID-19 over the holidays. In a public address aired on Monday night, Duterte said the following areas are also under GCQ: National Capital Region Batangas […]
Minors now allowed to go to malls accompanied by parents
MANILA, Dec 1 (Mabuhay) — After almost nine months in quarantine due to the COVID-19 pandemic, minors may now go malling as long as they are accompanied by their parents, Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Ano said. “Para na rin po sa kapaskuhan ay dun sa ipinag-utos natin na pwede ng gradual expansion ng […]
LEACHON: PRIORITIZE NCR, CALABARZON, CENTRAL LUZON IN GIVING COVID-19 VACCINE
MANILA, Nov 30 (Mabuhay)– The Philippines should prioritize giving the COVID-19 vaccine in most of the economic epicenter first before moving on to other hotspots, health expert Dr. Anthony “Tony” Leachon said on Monday. Leachon, a former adviser to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) which is the government’s […]
OPM SINGER APRIL BOY REGINO HAS PASSED AWAY
MANILA, Nov 30 (Mabuhay) — Singer April Boy Regino has passed away, according to his brother Vingo Regino. In a Facebook post, Vingo shared that it was a sad day for him. “Nakakalungkot naman ang araw na ito..wala na ang kuya April Boy ko,” he said. April Boy was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2009 […]
DOH discourages Christmas parties involving different households
MANILA, Nov 28 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday advised the public to hold Christmas parties among members in the same household as it warned of potential rise in COVID-19 cases should they invite people from different households. “‘Wag na muna magkaroon ng pagtitipon-tipon… ‘wag na muna magkaroon ng pagpunta sa kamag-anakan […]
New manager assures Bea Alonzo committed to Star Cinema project
MANILA, Nov 28 (Mabuhay) — Bea Alonzo’s new manager, Shirley Kuan, expressed gratitude to ABS-CBN after the network’s announcement of the actress’ departure from its Star Magic talent management arm to seek a new career horizon. Showbiz circles and social media have lately been abuzz with Alonzo’s move, with various speculations and intrigues about her […]
Melissa Gohing on engagement with Rocco Nacino: ‘Easiest yes I’ve said in my life’
MANILA, Nov 27 (Mabuhay)– Melissa Gohing has something to say to her husband-to-be, Rocco Nacino. In a tweet, she said that her mother taught her that love is a choice, “and that I should choose a husband that I can get through the highest of highs and lowest of lows.” “To my future husband, I […]
Duterte appoints ex-president GMA as adviser for Clark
MANILA, Nov 27 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as Presidential Adviser on Clark Programs and Projects. Duterte’s former aide, Senator Christopher Lawrence”Bong” Go confirmed Arroyo’s appointment to reporters on Thursday. The Clark Freeport Zone is located in Pampanga, Arroyo’s home province. After her 10-year term as president, she served […]
Ivana Alawi sizzles as Tanduay calendar girl
MANILA, Nov 26 (Mabuhay) — Actress and social media star Ivana Alawi was unveiled as the 2021 calender girl of rhum brand Tanduay. Alawi is seen posing in a variety of themed sets in the announcement video released by Tanduay, which described her as “capable, confident, and trendy.” “The modern woman, redefining the calendar girl,” […]
Senate OKs CREATE bill on third and final reading
MANILA, Nov 26 (Mabuhay) — Voting 20-1, the Senate on Thursday approved on third and final reading the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) bill, an urgent measure being lobbied for by the Duterte administration’s economic managers amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Senate Bill No. 1357 seeks an outright reduction in corporate income tax […]
Galvez expects funds release for Covid-19 vaccine by Dec. 15
MANILA, Nov 26 (Mabuhay) — National Policy against Covid-19 chief implementer and vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. on Wednesday said the funds for the acquisition of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccine will be available by December. “We are expecting [that] before December 15 maa-unlock natin ang mga pondo (we can unlock the funds)—so rest […]
Reporting corrupt gov’t officials just text away — Palace
MANILA, Nov 26 (Mabuhay) — If you have complaints or grievances about corrupt, lazy, or incompetent government officials, all you have to do now is text, Malacañang said Thursday. Globe Telecom Inc. (Globe) recently announced that the 8888 Citizens Complaint Center (CCC) now accepts complaints or grievances through short message system (SMS) or text message. […]
Galvez: Gov’t will vaccinate at least 20M Pinoys annually within 5 years
MANILA, Nov 25 (Mabuhay)– The Philippine government is planning to administer COVID-19 vaccines to 20 up to 30 million Filipinos yearly within five years, vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. said. In a public briefing on Wednesday, Galvez said the government targets to vaccinate 60 million to 70 million Filipinos in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. […]
Gov’t sets price cap for RT-PCR COVID-19 test
MANILA, Nov 25 (Mabuhay) — RT-PCR (nasal swab) test for COVID-19 virus should be priced from P3,800 to P5,000 at the maximum, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III announced on Wednesday. Duque said the price cap, provided under the Joint Administrative Order of the health and trade departments, sets the price cap of RT-PCR test at […]
PRRD signs laws increasing bed capacity of 5 hospitals
MANILA, Nov 25 (Mabuhay) — As the country continues to grapple with the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic, President Rodrigo Duterte has signed five laws increasing bed capacity of hospitals in the cities of Iloilo, Las Piñas, Tuguegarao and Quezon, and in Dapa, Surigao del Norte. Duterte signed all the laws on November 13 with Republic […]
Ina Raymundo reacts to ‘hot mama’ tag
MANILA, Nov 25 (Mabuhay)– “I am far from being super confident.”These were the words of Ina Raymundo when asked about how a lot of people perceive her as someone who seems to have no physical inhibitions. “Meron pa rin konti,” she quipped. “Meron akong inhibitions pa rin sa tummy ko kaya nga I go to […]
Duterte: 800 government officials, employees fired for graft, other offenses
MANILA, Nov 24 (Mabuhay) — – President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night said he will continue to “go after government officials and workers who are into graft and corruption,” saying around 800 officials and workers have been dismissed from the service due to illegal activities. The President named some of them, including Bureau of Internal […]
Kris Aquino defends Angel Locsin amid body shaming issue in learning module
MANILA, Nov 24 (Mabuhay) — Kris Aquino came to the defense of Angel Locsin after the Kapamilya actress became the subject of an Occidental Mindoro education module that tagged her “obese.” In a photo of the module that circulated online last week, Locsin was used as an example in the physical education portion, describing her […]
Covid-19 immunization won’t be mandatory: Palace
MANILA, Nov 24 (Mabuhay) — The government will not require all Filipinos to be inoculated with a potential coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine once it arrives in the country, Malacañang said Monday. In a press briefing via Zoom, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said nobody will be forced into getting Covid-19 vaccine shots because the Department […]
Angelica Panganiban, Zanjoe Marudo gamely ride on romance rumors
MANILA, Nov 23 (Mabuhay)– Angelica Panganiban and Zanjoe Marudo seem to be unbothered by rumors romantically linking the two of them. In a recent post on her Instagram Story, Panganiban shared a photo of Marudo with the following caption written across it: “Sinalubong ako ng rumored boyfriend ko.” Marudo is quite game to ride on […]
Success of antigen pilot test seen to boost Philippine tourism amid COVID-19
MANILA, Nov 23 (Mabuhay) — The government is banking on the success of antigen pilot testing to fully boost the country’s local tourism badly hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, Malacañang said Monday. Currently on pilot run in Baguio City, antigen testing is seen as a cheaper and faster alternative to the RT-PCR testing, which is […]
Bato dela Rosa tests positive for COVID-19
MANILA, Nov 21 (Mabuhay) — Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa on Saturday announced that he tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). “I’m sorry to inform you that I tested positive for Covid19 yesterday. To all who made contact with me, please do the appropriate protocols,” dela Rosa said in a statement. Dela Rosa said […]
‘Ulysses’-affected families now over 890K
MANILA, Nov 21 (Mabuhay) — Families affected by Typhoon Ulysses has climbed to 891,457 in eight Luzon regions as of Friday. In its latest update, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said the number is equivalent to 3,672,521 persons in 6,169 barangays in Regions 1, 2, 3, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, 5, National Capital […]
IATF allows minors, senior tourists in MGCQ areas
MANILA, Nov 21 (Mabuhay) — The age restrictions for tourists aged 15 years old below and above 65 may be lifted by the local government unit (LGU) in areas under modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), the Inter-Agency Task Force for Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) announced. In a resolution dated November 19, the task force said […]
Anne Curtis sets earliest timeline for showbiz comeback
MANILA, Nov 21 (Mabuhay) — On hiatus for nearly a year from showbiz, new mom Anne Curtis isn’t yet ready to return to the limelight, as she prioritizes being a hands-on parent to her daughter, Dahlia. “I wouldn’t say na I’m in a rush to start working again, just because lalo na for the first […]
Duterte proclamation declares 4th Sunday of November as National Bicycle Day
MANILA, Nov 20 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has declared the fourth Sunday of every November as “National Bicycle Day” to promote non-motorized transportation. The Clean Air Act mandates the state to focus on “pollution prevention rather than control,” while the Philippines Development Plan until 2022 seeks “a clean and healthy environment by promoting eco-friendly […]
Drug maker AstraZeneca applies for COVID-19 vaccine trials in PH
MANILA, Nov 20 (Mabuhay) — The Food and Drug Administration on Friday said the country’s vaccine expert panel recently received and is now studying the application of United Kingdom-based drugmaker AstraZeneca to hold COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials in the Philippines. “The vaccine expert panel is now evaluating several applications or several that signified interest (in […]
DHSUD’s Del Rosario finally gets CA nod
MANILA, Nov 20 (Mabuhay) — Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario finally secured the approval of the Commission Appointments (CA) on Thursday after appearing four times before the bicameral body since September. “I believe that we can expect great things in the housing sector from the department under his […]
Red Cross still waiting for gov’t nod on use of saliva test
MANILA, Nov 19 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has yet to get government approval for the use of its saliva COVID-19 test, Sen. Richard Gordon said on Thursday. “Nag submit kami dyan almost 3 months ago, pero sa health assessment I think a month and a one week na. Pero sabi sa akin […]
Duterte orders ‘back-up’ government center outside Manila
MANILA, Nov 19 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the creation of a “back-up government center” outside the Philippine capital to prepare for potential disasters and attract investments in the countryside. Duterte, in Executive Order No. 119, mandated the establishment of an administrative center in New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac, and ordered government […]
PH Covid-19 recoveries now 374,666
MANILA, Nov 19 (Mabuhay) — The overall tally of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) recoveries nationwide has risen to 374,666 with 143 new recovered cases reported on Wednesday. The Department of Health (DOH) also reported 1,383 newly confirmed cases, bringing the total number of active cases to 29,474. Of the active cases, about 83.8 percent are mild, […]
Xian Lim reacts to being called ‘mayabang,’ ‘laos,’ ‘paminta’
MANILA, Nov 19 (Mabuhay) — With a decade-long career in showbiz and as a public figure, Xian Lim has learned how to handle criticism and hateful comments about him. Lim prefers to avoid them altogether, he said, but for the purpose of his latest YouTube vlog, the actor went through a compilation of “mean tweets” […]
1 more storm may enter PH before end-November — PAGASA
MANILA, Nov 18 (Mabuhay) — One more storm may enter the Philippine area of responsibility before the month ends, state weather bureau PAGASA said Wednesday. “Ang forecast for November is 1-3 (storms) pero dahil nasa kalagitnaan pa lang tayo ng buwan, maaaring pumasok ang isa pang bagyo,” PAGASA weather forecaster Raymond Ordinario said. The Philippines […]
US committed to give Philippines access to COVID-19 vaccines
MANILA, Nov 18 (Mabuhay)– The United States has committed to give the Philippines access to COVID-19 vaccines once they become available after an American biotechnology firm Moderna reported positive results from its late-stage vaccine trial. It was US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo who informed Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. about Washington’s commitment to […]
DOH: No evacuee has tested positive for COVID-19
MANILA, Nov 18 (Mabuhay) — Not a single evacuee has tested positive for COVID-19 so far, the Department of Health said Wednesday. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire made the announcement given that the government has made available antigen COVID-19 test for evacuees with COVID-19 symptoms, among other medical and mental health assistance due to their […]
Duterte blames ‘squatters’ for deforestation
MANILA, Nov 18 (Mabuhay) — Following the widespread flooding in several provinces due to Typhoon Ulysses, President Rodrigo Duterte blamed low-income families for deforestation. In a briefing with Cabinet officials on Tuesday night, Duterte said poor communities in farms cut down trees and use the wood to build their houses and that this causes deforestation. […]
Duterte places entire Luzon under state of calamity
MANILA, Nov 18 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has placed the entire Luzon under state of calamity following the onslaught of typhoons Rolly and Ulysses in consecutive weeks. In a briefing on Tuesday night, Duterte said he already signed on Monday the papers placing the island under a state of calamity. “Mukhang napirmahan ko na […]
CHED: No to nationwide, Luzon-wide academic break
MANILA, Nov 17 (Mabuhay) — The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on Tuesday brushed off calls for an academic break in the country or even in Luzon following the spate of typhoons in the Philippines. CHED chairperson Prospero De Vera III pointed out that the commission cannot make a unilateral decision on academic break. “No […]
DepEd unlikely to issue academic freeze, official says
MANILA, Nov 17 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Education will not likely issue an academic freeze following the onslaught of several storms, an official said Tuesday. Several groups called for an academic freeze or break after a series of typhoons ravaged parts of the country in the past weeks as the COVID-19 pandemic persisted. No […]
Russia can make COVID-19 vaccines for Philippines in January 2021
MANILA, Nov 17 (Mabuhay) — Russia can begin the production of COVID-19 vaccines intended for the Philippines as early as January next year if the country is ready to accept them, Manila’s Ambassador to Moscow Carlos Sorreta said Monday. Sorreta made the statement days after the developers of Russia’s vaccine candidate, Sputnik V, reported that […]
Angelica Panganiban defends Angel Locsin vs body shaming in viral module
MANILA, Nov 17 (Mabuhay) — Angelica Panganiban came to the defense of her co-star and close friend Angel Locsin, after the latter became the subject of an Occidental Mindoro education module that called her “obese.” In a photo of the module that circulated online over the weekend, Locsin was used as an example in the […]
Philippine COVID-19 cases top 407,000 as new recoveries hit 11,290
MANILA, Nov 16 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) tally rose to 407,838 on Sunday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 1,530 new infections. The areas with the highest number of newly reported cases were Cavite with 90, Rizal with 84, Manila City with 79, Davao City with 78, and Taguig City […]
Gov’t eyes re-greening as long-term solution to flood woes
MANILA, Nov 16 (Mabuhay) — The government is targeting to push tree-planting activities to provide a long-term approach to minimizing serious flooding in the country. In a virtual briefing, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año said they are now discussing with Sec. Roy Cimatu of the Department of Environment and […]
Cagayan, Isabela residents warned of Magat Dam water release — NIA
MANILA, Nov 16 (Mabuhay) –The National Irrigation Administration said Sunday it warned residents of Cagayan and Isabela of Magat Dam’s water release two days prior Typhoon Ulysses’ landfall on Nov. 11. The water release and rainfall from nearby provinces caused “unprecedented” floods and killed at least 9 in his province, Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba had […]
Ronnie Liang completes civil-military correspondence course
MANILA, Nov 14 (Mabuhay) — Nine months after becoming a 2nd Lieutenant Army reservist, singer Ronnie Liang has now completed the Civil-Military Operations (CMO) Officer Correspondence Course. Liang took the Philippine Army course from July until September. “I am grateful to my Philippine Army family for the opportunity. This is truly an honor and an […]
Cagayan placed under state of calamity as Ulysses’ floods kill 9
MANILA, Nov 14 (Mabuhay)– The province of Cagayan was placed under a state of calamity on Saturday, Governor Manuel Mamba said. Mamba said the declaration was made by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan due to the widespread flooding that occurred in the province after Typhoon Ulysses passed through Luzon on Thursday. Nine people have died due to […]
39 dead, 22 missing due to Typhoon Ulysses — military
MANILA, Nov 13 (Mabuhay) — The military has recorded 39 fatalities as a result of Typhoon Ulysses, which brought strong winds and heavy rain on Wednesday night that reminded many Luzon residents of 2009’s Tropical Storm Ondoy. In a press briefing on Friday that saw Cabinet officials giving different figures as far as the number […]
Free medical aid for leptospirosis and tetanus available, DOH says amid Ulysses floods
MANILA, Nov 13 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday advised individuals who waded through floods in the aftermath of Typhoon Ulysses to avail of free medicines against leptospirosis and tetanus at the nearest health center. Many areas in Luzon, including the National Capital Region, experienced massive flooding due to Ulysses, which left […]
Rolly, Ulysses destroyed over P5.6B in DepEd facilities, materials — Briones
MANILA, Nov 13 (Mabuhay) — Two of the four tropical cyclones that ripped through the Philippines this month caused over P5 billion damage to school buildings and learning materials, Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Leonor Briones said Friday. “‘Yung kay Rolly pa lamang ay aabot ng P4.895 billion tapos ‘yung kay Ulysses P800 million,” Briones […]
DOLE awaits PRRD nod on lifting of med workers’ deployment ban
MANILA, Nov 12 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is waiting for President Rodrigo Duterte’s approval on lifting the temporary ban on the deployment of nurses and other medical workers. “The IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases) has approved our proposal lifting the temporary suspension of deployment […]
DSWD sends augmentation support to ‘Ulysses’-affected areas
MANILA, Nov 12 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has started providing assistance to local government units affected by Typhoon Ulysses. At the National Capital Region (NCR), DSWD field office NCR facilitated the release of 1,000 family food packs (FFPs) and 250 sleeping kits for Quezon City, and 2,000 FFPs and […]
Why Jameson Blake was hesitant to do BL film ‘My Lockdown Romance’
MANILA, Nov 12 (Mabuhay)– Kapamilya actor Jameson Blake admitted that he was initially hesitant to do the boys’ love (BL) movie “My Lockdown Romance” from Star Cinema opposite actor-singer Joao Constancia. In a live global blog conference, the actor admitted that before accepting the project, he first sought the opinions of his mother and his […]
Arbitral ruling can’t be ignored by any country, Duterte to Asean
MANILA, Nov 12 (Mabuhay) — No country can ignore nor diminish the Philippines’ arbitral victory in the South China Sea case, President Rodrigo Duterte said Thursday. Duterte asserted the country’s arbitral win in his speech during the virtual plenary session of the 37th Asean Summit, emphasizing that the legal victory is now part of “international […]
What made Enchong Dee, Jasmine Curtis-Smith accept roles in risky ‘Alter Me’
MANILA, Nov 11 (Mabuhay) — Enchong Dee and Jasmine Curtis-Smith are both grateful that they got to work together in the upcoming Netflix film “Alter Me” because that paved the way for them to become good friends. Speaking with the entertainment press, Curtis-Smith said they are fortunate that as their filmmaking was progressing, so was […]
Covid-19 vaccine might be ready early next year — envoy
MANILA, Nov 11 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines may receive an initial supply of American-made vaccines against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) by early 2021 once talks are finalized and a contract has been signed, Philippine Ambassador to Washington D.C. Jose Manuel Romualdez said. “Sa tingin ko by early next year, first quarter, magkakaroon na tayo ng […]
Duterte offers reward for info on corrupt activities in gov’t
MANILA, Nov 11 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has offered a reward of PHP50,000 or PHP100,000 to anyone who could give him information on government officials engaged in corrupt activities. In a taped public address aired Tuesday night, Duterte urged anyone to report anomalies within the government and they would receive a cash “prize.” “Pakiusapan […]
4 more storms could hit Philippines by year-end — PAGASA
MANILA, Nov 11 (Mabuhay) — Four more storms could enter the Philippine area of responsibility before the end of the year, state weather bureau PAGASA warned Wednesday. The Philippines has been battered by back to back typhoons starting with Typhoon Quinta (Molave) last month and Super Typhoon Rolly (Goni) early this month. Another weather disturbance, […]
Senate passes P10k teaching allowance bill
MANILA, Nov 10 (Mabuhay) — With 22 affirmative votes, no negative votes and no abstention, the Senate on Monday, November 9, 2020, passed on third and final reading a bill institutionalizing and increasing the teaching supplies allowance for public school teachers starting next year. Sen. Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., chairman of the Senate Committee on […]
UP says no entrance exam for next academic year due to COVID-19
MANILA, Nov 10 (Mabuhay) — The University of the Philippines (UP) has decided it would not hold a college entrance examination for academic year 2021-2022, citing logistical problems posed by the coronavirus pandemic. The University Councils (UC) of UP’s 8 constituent schools “unanimously voted NOT to administer UPCAT in light of logistical issues in the […]
Duterte approves National Vaccine Roadmap
MANILA, Nov 10 (Mabuhay) — The Palace confirmed on Monday, November 9, the approval of the National Task Force’s (NTF) Philippine National Vaccine Roadmap by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. Presidential Spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque Jr, who discussed details of the vaccine roadmap in his press briefing, said that the roadmap is in preparation for the […]
Deadline for payments of local taxes, fees extended to Dec. 19
MANILA, Nov 10 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Finance (DOF) has issued a circular extending to Dec. 19, 2020 the payment of all local taxes, fees, and charges imposed by local government units (LGUs) with deadlines falling on or after Sept. 14 this year in compliance with the provisions of Republic Act 11494, or the […]
PH logs over 11K Covid-19 recoveries on Sunday
MANILA, Nov 9 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday logged 11,430 new recovered cases, bringing the overall tally of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) recoveries nationwide to 361,638. As of 4 p.m. Sunday, the DOH also reported 2,442 new confirmed cases and 54 new deaths. These figures bring the total number of active cases […]
PH logs over 11K Covid-19 recoveries on Sunday
MANILA, Nov 9 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday logged 11,430 new recovered cases, bringing the overall tally of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) recoveries nationwide to 361,638. As of 4 p.m. Sunday, the DOH also reported 2,442 new confirmed cases and 54 new deaths. These figures bring the total number of active cases […]
Duterte names Sinas as next PNP chief
MANILA, Nov 9 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed Police Major General Debold Sinas as the next chief of the Philippine National Police, Malacañang said Monday. Duterte’s spokesperson Harry Roque made the announcement a day before the retirement of outgoing PNP chief Police General Camilo Cascolan. Sinas is currently the chief of the National […]
Locsin orders Philippine UN mission to vote for China candidate in ICJ
MANILA, Nov 9 (Mabuhay) –Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. on Sunday instructed the Philippine Mission to the United Nations to vote for China’s candidate to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the UN’s principal judicial organ. “You are instructed to cast the Philippine vote for the Chinese candidate to the international court of justice. That […]
New immigration policies possible under Biden rule, Philippine envoy says
MANILA, Nov 9 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ ambassador to the United States (US) is expecting changes in the immigration policies under the administration of US President-elect Joe Biden, who defeated President Donald Trump in the recent US elections. Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez noted that more immigrants were deported during the Obama administration that in the […]
Motorcyle taxi passengers required to bring own helmets once operations resume
MANILA, Nov 9 (Mabuhay) — While the government has yet to give a specific time frame as to when motorcycle taxis will be allowed to resume operations, new guidelines have been released to ensure health and safety amid the COVID-19 pandemic. National Action Plan Against COVID-19 Deputy Chief Implementor Secretary Vivencio “Vince” Dizon on Monday […]
‘Kapamilya forever,’ Piolo Pascual tells Charo Santos
MANILA, Nov 9 (Mabuhay) — Piolo Pascual said he remains “Kapamilya forever,” amid his situation of starring in a show airing in the same time slot as his former ABS-CBN program. Pascual, 43, has been with ABS-CBN’s talent agency Star Magic for 24 years. Under the Kapamilya network, Pascual steadily rose as a sought-after leading […]
PNP: 2,794 drug suspects earlier released were rearrested
MANILA, Nov 7 (Mauhay)– The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Saturday said a total of 2,794 drug suspects who were previously released have been rearrested for being repeat offenders. They were among the 19,947 drug suspects earlier released in the past four years through plea bargaining agreement. The PNP also said 244 drug suspects previously […]
Batanes regains COVID-free status, looks to open to tourists
MANILA, Nov 7 (Mabuhay) –The island province of Batanes has declared itself free of the coronavirus after two patients recovered from the viral disease. After keeping the virus at bay for several months, Batanes reported its first COVID-19 case in September – a locally stranded individual who returned to the province earlier that month. Another […]
PH lauds Saudi removal of key restrictions on foreign workers
MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) described as another milestone in the anti-Kafala campaign abroad the move of Saudi Arabia to remove key restrictions on its foreign workers, giving them the right to change jobs and leave the host country without employers’ permission. Saudi Arabia is set to implement the […]
AFP to abide by Duterte’s final guidance on VFA
MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday said it would follow President Rodrigo Duterte’s final guidance on the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). “We will abide fully by the final guidance of the President as regards the VFA. From the perspective of AFP, the Visiting Forces Agreement translates to […]
Janine Berdin once told to quit pursuing her dream of becoming a singer
MANILA, Nov 5 (Mabuhay) — Janine Berdin admitted there was a point in her life when she almost gave up on her dream of becoming a singer. In an online interview, Berdin shared that she was once told to just focus on trying to become an actress instead. “Kasi ever since I was a kid, […]
Philippines may start COVID-19 vaccination by May 2021 — Galvez
MANILA, Nov 5 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines may start inoculating COVID-19 vaccines to the public by May next year if everything will go according to plan, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr, who was recently tapped to lead the importation and distribution program, said Thursday. In the timetable proposed by Galvez, the Philippines will place an advance […]
EU commits €150M new grants to Philippines — DOF
MANILA, Nov 5 (Mabuhay) — The European Union (EU) has committed an additional €150 million worth of new grants to the Philippines, the Department of Finance (DOF) said Thursday. The DOF said the bulk or two-thirds of the new EU grants will “help finance programs to boost agricultural productivity in Mindanao and provide electricity to […]
UK allots P63-M aid for typhoon victims in PH, Vietnam
MANILA, Nov 5 (Mabuhay) — The United Kingdom earmarked 1 million pounds or around PHP62.9 million to assist the victims of recent typhoons in the Philippines and Vietnam. “(The) £1 million UK aid package will help to deliver life-saving food, clean water and safe shelter to those who need it most and help both the […]
Philippines logs 987 new COVID-19 cases, total at 388,137
MANILA, Nov 5 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) tally rose to 388,137 on Wednesday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 987 new cases, the lowest since July, partly due to the impact of Typhoon Rolly. “The relative low report in the new cases is part of the effects of the Typhoon […]
Duterte not in a hurry to abrogate VFA — Palace
MANILA, Nov 4 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte is in “no immediate rush” to abrogate the country’s Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States, Malacañang said on Wednesday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte may postpone for another six months the termination of VFA. “That (VFA termination) has an option of being further extended […]
Piolo Pascual releases new single ‘Iiyak sa Ulan’
MANILA, Nov 4 (Mabuhay) — Star Music has released the latest single of actor Piolo Pascual titled “Iiyak sa Ulan.” ABS-CBN’s music outfit also released the lyric video of Pascual’s new song, which was composed by Dan Lagroma and produced by Jonathan Manalo. On Instagram, Pascual also promoted his new project as he shared teaser […]
Decision to allow face-to-face classes still up to Duterte — Roque
MANILA, Nov 4 (Mabuhay) — The decision to allow face-to-face classes is still with President Rodrigo Duterte but concerned agencies continuously monitor developments as they prepare for its eventual resumption, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Tuesday. “Patuloy naman po ang paghahanda diyan bagama’t ang desisyon po ay talaga magiging desisyon pa rin ni Presidente ‘no […]
PH can’t test all Typhoon Rolly evacuees for COVID, but precautions in place — DOH
MANILA, Nov 3 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines will not be able to test all Typhoon Rolly evacuees, but there are other ways to curb the spread of COVID-19 in temporary shelters, the Department of Health said Monday. “Isa yung pagte-test for evacuation sites. It is the ideal. Ideally, kung meron tayong ganung resources at masasagawa, […]
DFA asks Pinoys in Vienna to stay indoors following attacks
MANILA, Nov 3 (Mabuhay) –The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday issued a security alert for Filipinos in Vienna, urging them to stay indoors after a shooting attack near a synagogue killed two civilians and injured 15 others. There are 321 Filipinos in Vienna, the DFA said. “The DFA, through the embassy, has gotten […]
Galvez appointed vaccine czar
MANILA, Nov 3 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has designated national policy against coronavirus disease (Covid-19) chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. as “vaccine czar” to ensure that the Philippines has access to a potential Covid-19 vaccine once available. In a Cabinet meeting on Monday, Duterte said he wanted Galvez to be the sole person […]
No changes in quarantine classifications for November –Palace
MANILA, Oct 30 (Mabuhay) — The government’s COVID-19 task force stood by its decision to place Metro Manila and six other areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) next month, Malacañang said Friday. Aside from Metro Manila, the cities of Bacolod, Iloilo, Tacloban and Iligan, as well as the provinces of Batangas and Lanao del Sur […]
FDA’s Domingo: Expert panel evaluating Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine clinical trial application
MANILA, Oct 30 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine’s Vaccine Expert Panel (VEP) is currently reviewing the application of an Australian pharmaceutical company for COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials in the country, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) director-general Eric Domingo said on Friday. “There’s a number three company that has shown interest in doing clinical trials here in […]
Ivana reminds simple truth: ‘No matter kung ano ang suot,’ women deserve respect
MANILA, Oct 29 (Mabuhay)– Regardless of what a woman wears, she deserves to be respected. This was Ivana Alawi’s simple reminder, as she recalled her experience of being sexually harassed during her time as an events model. Alawi was asked for her opinion on women’s rights and welfare, amid the controversy involving Liza Soberano and […]
Billionaires Villar, Pacquiao still richest senators in Philippines
MANILA, Oct 29 (Mabuhay) — Two senators in the Senate remained to be billionaires as of end-2019, the latest summary of Statement of Assets Liabilities and Net worth (SALN) posted on the Senate website showed. Senator Cynthia Villar is still the richest lawmaker in the Upper House having a P3.8 billion net worth with no […]
Binay, Gatchalian deny voting for Marcos Day in Senate panel
MANILA, Oct 29 (Mabuhay) — Senators Nancy Binay and Sherwin Gatchalian have denied voting for the measure instituting a holiday to mark the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos’ birthday in his home province Ilocos Norte. In separate statements, Binay said she would not support any bill that would change historical records while Gatchalian clarified that he […]
JICA releases 1st tranche of ¥50-B post-disaster loan to PH
MANILA, Oct 28 (Mabuhay) — The Japanese embassy in Manila on Wednesday announced the disbursement of 10 billion yen or about PHP4.63 billion of Japan’s total 50 billion yen post-disaster loan to the Philippines. “JICA disbursed ¥10 billion out of the ¥50-B Post-Disaster Standby Loan (PDSL) to the Philippines after its signing on Sep. 15. […]
More Philippine-made coconut products now sold in Russia, says DTI
MANILA, Oct 28 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Trade and Industry said Wednesday more coconut products made in the Philippines are now available in Russian stores. Organic-coconut based items such as coconut milk, coconut cream, balsamic sauce, aminos sauces, coconut syrup, coconut oil and coconut jam are now available in Russian retail stores Ozon and […]
Over 2,300 Chinese told to leave PH over visa violations: Immigration bureau
MANILA, Oct 28 (Mabuhay) — The Bureau of Immigration said Tuesday that it ordered more than 2,300 Chinese nationals to leave the Philippines for violating conditions of their visa. Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said from January to October, 2,376 Chinese nationals who were granted visas upon arrival (VUA) were instructed to leave the Philippines after […]
DFA to probe envoy’s maltreatment of Pinoy helper
MANILA, Oct 28 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Tuesday discussions are ongoing on the investigation involving Philippine Ambassador to Brazil Marichu Mauro who was caught hitting her Filipino helper inside the diplomatic residence. In a tweet, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said the DFA would assign an official from overseas […]
VP Robredo, staff test negative for COVID-19
MANILA, Oct 28 (Mabuhay) –Vice President Leni Robredo and her staff have tested negative for COVID-19, her office announced on Wednesday. The Office of the Vice President made the announcement three days after Robredo said that she and members of her staff are on self-quarantine following an exposure to a COVID-19 patient. Robredo thanked the […]
Duterte sides with Lorenzana on red-tagging: ‘Keep quiet’ if you have no evidence
MANILA, Oct 27 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte wants military and police officials to stop tagging certain individuals as communists or terrorists without proper evidence. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte is taking Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana’s censure against Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade, Jr., the spokesman of National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed […]
Swab tests still free for OFWs — Palace
MANILA, Oct 27 (Mabuhay) — Swab testing for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) remains free of charge, Malacañang said Monday following reports that some Filipinos arriving from abroad were asked to pay PHP20,000 for faster release of their coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) test results. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque assured that the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) […]
Robredo says has no COVID symptoms, yet to see test results
MANILA, Oct 27 (Mabuhay) — Vice President Leni Robredo has no symptoms of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) but has yet to see her test results, she said Monday. “Been receiving a lot of messages. Thank you for your prayers. I have no symptoms at all,” she announced in a Facebook post. “All of us […]
Alden’s Reality’: GMA Network introduces Philippines’ first-ever virtual-reality concert
MANILA, Oct 27 (Mabuhay) –This December 8, witness a global event never before seen in Philippine entertainment history as GMA Network presents “Alden’s Reality” — the country’s first-ever virtual reality concert, bannered by no less than Asia’s Multimedia Star, Alden Richards. “Alden’s Reality (AR)” gives Alden’s fans a virtual date like no other, combining cutting-edge […]
DOH: Clinical trials for WHO-led COVID-19 vaccine effort to start in December
MANILA, Oct 26 (Mabuhay) — Phase 3 clinical trials for the World Health Organization (WHO) Solidarity Trial in the Philippines will start in December, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said Monday. “Iyong WHO, nag-announce na po na mag-uumpisa po ang clinical trial by December 2020,” Vergeire said in an online forum. “Nagbigay po ng commitment […]
BI lifts antigen test for outbound Filipinos; more foreigners allowed entry
MANILA, Oct 26 (Mabuhay) — Filipinos leaving the country will no longer be required to have an antigen test for COVID-19 starting next week while more foreign nationals will be allowed entry to the Philippines, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced Sunday. In a statement, the BI said the antigen test requirement for those leaving […]
Pope Francis civil union comment taken out of context –Sen. Sotto
MANILA, Oct 26 (Mabuhay) — Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Saturday claimed that Pope Francis was misquoted when he expressed support for same-sex civil union laws, saying the Pope meant that families should not ostracize homosexuals. “Ang ibig niyang sabihin doon, yung mga nangyayari kasi na yung iba ino-ostracize pagka homosexual, parang they are […]
VP Robredo in quarantine after exposure to COVID-19 case
MANILA, Oct 26 (Mabuhay) — Vice President Leni Robredo on Sunday revealed she is under quarantine after being exposed to a COVID-19 case. “Dapat sana itong darating na linggo, sa Lucena kami, Tuesday dapat sa Caloocan kami. Pero na-expose ako noong Miyerkoles, noong Huwebes. Na-expose ako sa isang nag-positive,” Robredo said in her radio show. […]
PH committed to boosting strategic partnership with Japan — DND
MANILA, Oct 24 (Mabuhay) — Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Friday conveyed the Philippines’ commitment to strengthen its strategic partnership with Japan. He made this assurance during a video teleconference with Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi. “Secretary Lorenzana conveyed the commitment of the Department of National Defense to strengthen the strategic […]
Angel Locsin sets record straight, says she and her family not part of NPA
MANILA, Oct 24 (Mabuhay) — Angel Locsin felt the need to set the record straight after she and her family were red-tagged for speaking against the government. In a lengthy Instagram post on Friday, the actress and philanthropist reiterated that she and her family are not part of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) or any […]
PRRD supports recognition of same-sex civil union — Palace
MANILA, Oct 23 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Thursday reiterated President Rodrigo Duterte’s support for the recognition of civil union of same-sex couples in the country. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made the statement after Pope Francis endorsed same-sex civil unions for the first time as pontiff in a feature-length documentary “Francesco,” which premiered at the Rome […]
20M Pinoys to initially get Covid-19 vaccine once available
MANILA, Oct 23 (Mabuhay) — The government targets to immunize an initial 20 million Filipinos once the vaccine for coronavirus disease (Covid-19) is available in the country, National Policy against Covid-19 chief implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said on Thursday. Galvez said the government has formed a task group on vaccination composed of the Department […]
AFP just giving Liza, Catriona warning about Left — Palace
MANILA, Oct 23 (Mabuhay) — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) was not red-tagging actress Liza Soberano and 2018 Miss Universe Catriona Gray but just giving them a warning that their advocacies might be used by the Left-leaning groups, Malacañang said on Thursday. “Well, tingin ko naman sa statement mismo ng AFP, sinabi naman […]
‘Traslacion’ 2021 canceled due to Covid-19
MANILA, Oct 23 (Mabuhay) — For the first time, the ‘traslacion’ or grand procession of the Black Nazarene would not push through next year due to the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic. “Mahalagang anunsyo po, mga Batang Maynila. Napagkasunduan na po ng Manila LGU at Quiapo Church na walang isasagawang prusisyon ng imahe ng Itim na […]
Año to meet with Facebook execs next week to discuss purging of accounts, pages
MANILA, Oct 22 (Mabuhay) — Interior Secretary Eduardo Año is set to meet with executives from Facebook next week to talk about the issue on the latter’s purging of pages and accounts allegedly linked to the country’s security forces. In a statement issued Thursday, Año said the meeting would discuss how Facebook has been using […]
Kathryn agrees with Daniel on getting married before they turn 30
MANILA, Oct 22 (Mabuhay) — Kathryn Bernardo did not hesitate to answer whether she agreed with her long-time boyfriend Daniel Padilla’s recent pronouncement about getting married before they turn 30. Padilla shared his personal timeline for settling down in a virtual conference for his recent concert “Apollo,” saying he hopes to exchange vows with Bernardo […]
PH Covid-19 recoveries climb to 311,506
MANILA, Oct 22 (Mabuhay) — The total number of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) recoveries nationwide has reached 311,506 with 911 new recovered cases reported on Wednesday. In its latest case bulletin, the Department of Health (DOH) also reported 1,509 new confirmed cases, pushing the overall tally of active cases to 43,990. Of the active cases, […]
DOJ says persons, groups wrongly tagged as terrorists can turn to courts
MANILA, Oct 21 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Justice (DOJ) said Tuesday that people and groups who will be “improperly” labelled as terrorists under the Philippines’ new anti-terrorism law may seek redress from the courts. “As far as I’m concerned, as far as the Department of Justice… and the Anti-Terrorism Council is concerned, if your […]
4K OFWs stranded due to PhilHealth issue with PRC — Bello
MANILA, Oct 21 (Mabuhay) — At least 4,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) were stranded after the Philippine Red Cross (PRD) stopped conducting the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) tests for government due to unpaid PHP930 million debt by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Tuesday. DOLE Secretary […]
Christmas parties prohibited in Metro Manila, Philippines’ GCQ areas
MANILA, Oct 20 (Mabuhay) — Christmas parties are prohibited in Metro Manila this year after mayors agreed to place the entire region under general community quarantine until the end of the year, the government said Tuesday. Mass gatherings remain barred in GCQ areas under the guidelines of the Inter-Agency Task Force against COVID-19. Metro Manila […]
Metro Manila allows 18 to 65-year-olds to go out amid COVID-19 threat
MANILA, Oct 20 (Mabuhay) — Metro Manila mayors eased the age restriction on persons allowed to go out of their homes amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). In a Palace briefing on Monday, MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia explained that the mayors will ease the restriction gradually since the […]
Sanya Lopez is the new leading lady in ‘First Yaya’
MANILA, Oct 19 (Mabuhay) — Sanya Lopez has been named as the new leading lady for the upcoming Kapuso series “First Yaya.” The 24-year-old actress will replace Marian Rivera, who opted out of the lock-in taping to focus on taking care of her family. Sanya said she is nervous but excited to work on her […]
Baguio City opens doors to entire Luzon
MANILA, Oct 19 (Mabuhay) — Baguio City is set to open its doors again to tourists coming from the entire Luzon following earlier restrictions because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In an announcement posted through social media, the city’s Public Information Office said Baguio’s “Ridge and Reef program” would now be expanded to cater to travelers […]
Judy Ann asks Sharon: ‘Paano na pelikula nating tatlo ni Regine?’
MANILA Oct 17 (Mabuhay) — Actress Judy Ann Santos expressed her concern over Sharon Cuneta’s post about retiring from show business. In an Instagram post, Cuneta cleared speculations that she will be retiring from show business soon. Cuneta said her plans of leaving the entertainment industry will not happen anytime soon because of her contracts […]
DOST expects VCO trial results will be released 2nd week of November
MANILA, Oct 17 (Mabuhay) — Results of the clinical trials on the efficacy of virgin coconut oil (VCO) against the coronavirus disease 2019 are expected to be released by the second week of November, the Department of Science and Technology said Saturday. “After today ay ia-analyze na ‘yung data. Siguro second week of November alam […]
PhilHealth won’t pay Red Cross unless MOA issues settled — Gierran
MANILA, Oct 17 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) will not pay its debt of almost P1 billion to the Philippine Red Cross until all legal issues regarding their memorandum of agreement are settled amid the COVID-19 pandemic. New PhilHealth President Dante Gierran said he would not pay due to questions regarding the […]
Duterte approves lifting of oil exploration moratorium in WPS
MANILA, Oct 16 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the recommendation of the Department of Energy (DOE) to lift the suspension of petroleum activities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). “I thank the President for approving the DOE recommendation. We need to explore so we may address the country’s energy security,” DOE Secretary Alfonso […]
Travel agencies, tour operators now allowed in GCQ areas
MANILA, Oct 16 (Mabuhay) — Travel agencies, tour operators, reservation services, and other related activities are allowed to operate in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) at limited capacity starting Friday. This came after the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) issued Memorandum Circular 20-53 dated October 14 that re-categorizes the said travel and tourism-related […]
Gov’t allows resumption of non-essential outbound travel of Filipinos
MANILA, Oct 16 (Mabuhay) — The government’s COVID-19 task force has lifted the restriction on non-essential outbound travel of Filipinos, Malacañang announced on Friday. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the policy will be effective on October 21. The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Infectious Diseases (IATF) earlier suspended the implementation of this policy. […]
Palace assures Covid-19 vaccine’s affordability
MANILA, Oct 16 (Mabuhay) — Even if the government could not provide free coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccines to all Filipinos, Malacañang on Thursday said it is confident that the vaccines would be affordable to many Filipinos. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this remark after President Rodrigo Duterte said it would be “ideal” for every Filipino […]
DOJ completes IRR of anti-terror law
MANILA, Oct 15 (Mabuhay)– Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday said the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (ATA) has been approved on schedule by the Anti Terrorism Council (ATC). “The ATC has approved today (Wednesday) the IRR of the ATL crafted by the technical working […]
3 potential COVID-19 vaccines to have clinical trials in Philippines — Palace
MANILA, Oct 15 (Mabuhay) — At least three potential vaccines against COVID-19 are set to have clinical trials in the Philippines, according to presidential spokesperson Harry Roque on Thursday. “Meron po tayong tatlo na magkakaroon tayo ng clinical trials,” Roque said. “Kasama na po dyan ang Russia at tsaka ‘yung sa China, at kung hindi […]
DPWH’s Villar: Foreign workers employed in infra projects due to required technical skills
MANILA, Oct 14 (Mabuhay) — Public Works Secretary Mark Villar on Wednesday said foreign nationals are being employed in the country’s infrastructure projects because of the required technical skills they possess. During a Senate hearing on the proposed P666.47-billion budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for 2021, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan […]
Isko warns of Covid-19 ‘2nd wave’ as figures in US, Europe rise
MANILA, Oct 14 (Mabuhay) — Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso on Tuesday warned the public of the possibility of a ‘second wave’ of the coronavirus, citing the rising number of infections in Europe and the United States. “I hope we don’t experience what is happening in Europe as what is being reported by international […]
AFP chief Gapay says situation in South China Sea remains volatile, uncertain
MANILA, Oct 13 (Mabuhay) — Armed Forces chief General Gilbert Gapay on Tuesday described the situation in the South China Sea as “volatile and uncertain.” During an online forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP), Gapay explained that the situation in the region has been uncertain because of the continuous aggressive actions […]
Erich Gonzales topbills new ABS-CBN series ‘La Vida Lena’
MANILA, Oct 13 (Mabuhay) — Actress Erich Gonzales is set to topbill a new ABS-CBN series entitled “La Vida Lena.” The Kapamilya actress shared the good news to her fans and followers as she posted a poster of the new show under Dreamscape Entertainment. She also tagged ABS-CBN directors Jojo Saguin and Jerry Sineneng. In […]
DepEd prepares for limited face-to-face classes
MANILA, Oct 13 (Mabuhay) — An Education official said Monday the Department of Education (DepEd) is preparing for the limited face-to-face classes in areas with no reported coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections. “At the moment, there are no face-to-face classes but the DepEd is really preparing for it,” DepEd Undersecretary Tonisito Umali said in a […]
Bela Padilla introduces new flame
MANILA, Oct 12 (Mabuhay) — Bela Padilla has confirmed being in a new romance as she posted a photo of a man whom she was with during a recent stay in Turkey. “The one I met in St. Gallen,” was Padilla’s short caption for the photos showing her sharing a sweet moment with the man. […]