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 […]
‘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 […]
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 […]
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. […]
2.4M Filipino children susceptible to measles — DOH
MANILA, Oct 12 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) said that 2.4 million Filipino children are vulnerable to contracting measles, thus the department is targeting to vaccinate them. “Kapag tiningnan po natin iyong ating datos, ang nakalagay po sa amin 2.4 million na mga bata na nagkukulang o vulnerable sila ngayon para magkaroon ng […]
WHO hopes Philippines can tap up to 4k volunteers for Solidarity Trial
MANILA, Oct 12 (Mabuhay) — The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday expressed hope that the Philippines will increase the number of participants for the WHO-sanctioned COVID-19 vaccine trial scheduled to begin later this month. At the Laging Handa briefing, WHO Representative to the Philippines Rabindra Abeyasinghe said the Philippines is currently looking at around […]
US extends $213M grant to assist Philippines in poverty reduction, good governance
MANILA, Oct 12 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines has scored a $213-million grant (equivalent to P10.8 billion) from the United States to finance poverty reduction and good governance programs, the Department of Finance (DOF) announced Monday. According to the DOF, the grant for the Economic Growth and Democratic Governance with Equity (EGDGE) Program will be implemented […]
Filipino workers in Canada receive recovery aid
MANILA, Oct 12 (Mabuhay) — The Canadian government has extended its coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) recovery assistance to Filipinos who are temporarily working in the North American country, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Sunday. In a report to Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Vancouver said […]
Ivana Alawi reacts to ‘pantasya ng bayan’ tag
MANILA, Oct 10 (Mabuhay) — Ivana Alawi doesn’t understand why she has been tagged as every man’s fantasy woman. In an online interview, Alawi insists she is not trying to be anything but her usual self. “Honestly hindi ko siya maintindihan kung bakit kasi hindi naman kami masyado natutuwa sa sarili ko. I am being […]
13th month pay deferment subject to employer-employee dialogue — Bello
MANILA, Oct 10 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Labor and Employment on Saturday said the deferment of giving 13th-month pay can be agreed upon by the employers and their employees through a dialogue. “Depende yan sa pag-uusap ng management at labor group. Kung papayag ang mga empleyado… depende ‘yan sa usapan nila,” Labor Secretary Silvestre […]
DOST gears up for Covid-19 vaccine clinical trials
MANILA, Oct 10 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), as the lead agency of the Inter-Agency Task Force’s sub-technical working group on vaccine development, is currently preparing for World Health Organization (WHO) Solidarity Trial for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine. In a taped DOST report aired Friday afternoon, DOST Secretary Fortunato […]
‘Vaccine hesitancy’ has dropped in Philippines, says Duque
MANILA, Oct 10 (Mabuhay) — The apprehensions of Filipino parents to have their children vaccinated have already died down, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said Friday. “Kung pagbabatayan natin ang immunization coverage ng polio last year, mukhang ‘yung vaccine hesitancy bumagsak na,” Duque told senators as he defended the proposed P203.74 billion budget of the […]
Philippines now qualified for a more relaxed e-visa to Russia
MANILA, Oct 9 (Mabuhay) — Starting 2021, Filipinos will be able to apply for an e-visa to travel to any part of Russia, its embassy in Manila said. Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, the embassy said on its Facebook page, has signed a directive approving a revised and more relaxed pilot visa procedure for the […]
Palace hails Duque for being elected WHO committee chair
MANILA, Oct 9 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Thursday congratulated Health Secretary Francisco Duque III for being elected as chair of World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Western Pacific. In a Palace briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duque’s accomplishment showed that the WHO recognizes his capabilities. “Our congratulations to Secretary Duque and my classmate […]
I don’t feel 51, says Alice Dixson
MANILA, Oct 9 (Mabuhay) — The adage, “Age is just a number,” rings true for Alice Dixson, who wowed her followers over the weekend with bare-faced selfies at the beach. “I don’t feel 51,” Dixson wrote on Instagram, sharing photos of her tanning session. “On my closeup, you can see my freckles and sun spots […]
Stronger ties between PH, Brunei navies seen
MANILA, Oct 7 (Mabuhay) — The relationship between the Philippine Navy (PN) and the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) remains strong despite the cancellation of naval exercises due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, an official said. “We would like to assure you that in spite of us not seeing each other face-to-face or physically, […]
Maja Salvador to star in Mikhail Red’s upcoming film
MANILA, Oct 7 (Mabuhay) — Actress Maja Salvador is set to star in the upcoming movie “Arisaka,” the latest film of young director Mikhail Red. This was confirmed by Salvador in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 30. In the caption, Salvador simply wrote “Arisaka.” Using the same photos shared by Salvador, Red also shared […]
Newly-hired healthcare workers can leave PH — POEA
MANILA, Oct 7 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) on Tuesday said newly-hired Filipino healthcare workers (HCWs) with perfected and signed contracts as of August 31 are allowed to leave the country. In Advisory No. 47-B, series of 2020, it said all HCWs whose contracts were crafted and signed as of this new […]
Philippines asks UK to continue protecting Filipino health workers amid COVID-19
MANILA, Oct 6 (Mabuhay) — Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin has called on the United Kingdom to continue protecting Filipino health care professionals and uphold their well-being months after several of them were reported to have died from coronavirus. In last week’s virtual meeting between Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers and […]
Nograles: Philippines not yet ready to accept more foreigners amid COVID-19 pandemic
MANILA, Oct 6 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines is not inclined to accept more foreigners for now amid calls to lift travel restrictions for unmarried foreign partners of Filipinos. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said the government is taking “calibrated” steps towards fully reopening the country’s borders for international travel. “Right now hindi pa tayo handa. Hindi […]
Why Andi Eigenmann left limelight for island life
MANILA, Oct 6 (Mabuhay)– – Andi Eigenmann opened up about her island life and why she decided to stay away from the limelight. Eigenmann said it’s not actually the “fault of showbiz but it’s the timing of it all for me.” “Parang I started at a time I was so young and I didn’t really […]
Duterte says he never killed anyone, ‘magtanong ka sa pulis’
MANILA, Oct 6 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday claimed that he never killed anyone after saying on several occasions during his administration that he had personally taken lives. Duterte made the statement in a televised address from Malacañang after assuring embattled Health Secretary Francisco Duque III that he would “see to it that […]
Liza Soberano, Enrique Gil to work on new project in early 2021
MANILA, Oct 5 (Mabuhay) — Actress Liza Soberano reiterated that she will remain a Kapamilya, confirming there have been offers to leave ABS-CBN but she chose to stay with her mother network. “That is true I have received offers and I’m grateful for them but I told my manager Tito Ogie (Diaz) that for now […]
18,065 new Covid-19 recoveries bring total to over 273K
MANILA, Oct 5 (Mabuhay) — A total of 18,065 new recoveries from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) were reported Sunday, pushing the total number of recoveries nationwide to 273,079. In its latest case bulletin, the Department of Health (DOH) also reported 3,190 new Covid-19 infections, bringing the total number of active cases to 43,642. Of […]
DFA advises Filipinos to postpone trip to Iraq
MANILA, Oct 3 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday asked all Filipinos traveling to Iraq to cancel their trip amid the recent rocket assaults targeting the Baghdad International Airport and the country’s heavily-fortified Green Zone. “The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) advises travelers to Iraq, particularly personnel of international organizations (IOs) […]
49K Pinoy seafarers deployed in September
MANILA, Oct 3 (Mabuhay) — Some 49,000 Filipino seafarers were deployed in September as the seafaring industry gradually reopens amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) said Friday. “Last month, a number of seafarers not below 49,000 were able to board their ships. This is the normal number of seamen […]
Bato wants probe of Facebook takedown of accounts linked to cops, soldiers
MANILA, Oct 2 (Mabuhay) — Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa has filed a resolution urging the Senate to investigate the removal of some pro-government and anti-communist pages on Facebook, saying the move may be violating Filipinos’ right to free speech. The social media giant earlier said it removed 2 networks on its platform for “coordinated inauthentic […]
US military pilots must not use PH aircraft codes — Esperon
MANILA, Oct 2 (Mabuhay) — American military pilots should be cautioned against using hex codes belonging to Philippine aircraft while conducting their surveillance missions, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said Thursday. Esperon’s remarks came following reports that a US surveillance aircraft disguised itself as a Philippine plane using hex codes assigned to the country […]
PRRD ‘most hopeful’ about potential China-made vaccine
MANILA, Oct 2 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo R. Duterte is “most hopeful” about the potential coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine being developed by China, Malacañang said Thursday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte prefers a China-made vaccine even as several countries are on a race to be the first to come up with a vaccine […]
PH Covid-19 recoveries climb to 254,223; active cases now 54,294
MANILA, Oct 2 (Mabuhay) — Some 771 new recoveries from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) were reported Thursday, pushing the total number of recoveries nationwide to 254,223. In its latest case bulletin, the Department of Health (DOH) also noted 2,415 new Covid-19 infections, bringing the total number of active cases to 54,294. Of the active […]
2,006 new COVID-19 infections push tally close to 379,000
MANILA, Oct 31 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday reported 2,006 new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections, bringing the total tally to 378,933, as 13 laboratories failed to submit their reports on time. According to the DOH, the areas with the highest number of new infections were Batangas with 124, Cavite with […]
87.2% Covid-19 cases have recovered — DOH
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 […]
PH Covid-19 recoveries now 253K, active cases rise to 52,702
MANILA, Oct 1 (Mabuhay) — The country’s total number of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) recoveries rose to 253,488 after the Department of Health (DOH) reported 585 new recoveries. In its latest case bulletin, the DOH also noted that 2,426 new infections were reported on Wednesday, pushing the number of active cases to 52,702. Of the […]
MGCQ status for Metro Manila in November not impossible — Palace
MANILA, Oct 1 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang is not ruling out the possibility that Metro Manila may shift to a modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) in November. “It is not an impossibility dahil talaga naman po napababa natin [ang COVID-19 cases] pero nasa kababayan pa rin natin ‘yan sa Metro Manila. Alam na po natin ang […]
Duterte seeks dialogue, not shutdown of Facebook –Palace
MANILA, Sept 30 (Mabuhay)– Malacañang on Tuesday said President Rodrigo Duterte was not threatening to stop the operation of Facebook in the country when he scored the social media giant for taking down accounts and pages advocating “something” that is good for the people. In a press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte is […]
Appointment of new apostolic nuncio ‘good news’ for Filipino faithful amid COVID-19 crisis — CBCP
MANILA, Sept 30 (Mabuhay) — The appointment of Archbishop Charles John Brown as the new apostolic nuncio to the Philippines is “very good news” to the faithful amid the crisis brought by the COVID-19 pandemic in the country, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said on Tuesday. “It is a very good news […]
Duterte wants Facebook not to ban pages advocating gov’t interests — Palace
MANILA, Sept 29 (Mabuhay)– President Rodrigo Duterte’s statement against Facebook on Monday was an appeal to the social media giant not to ban accounts that promote the interests of the government, Malacañang said Tuesday. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said there is currently no scheduled discussion between government and Facebook over the President’s concerns. “Ang sinasabi […]
Boracay reopening allows work resumption for tourism sector
MANILA, Sept 29 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Monday clarified that the reopening of Boracay Island did not mean that the country is already safe from the threat of coronavirus disease (Covid-19). In a virtual Palace briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the reopening of the famous beach island would support tourism industry workers and businesses […]
Covid-19 cases drop due to ‘One Hospital, Oplan Kalinga’
MANILA, Sept 29 (Mabuhay) — The downward trend in the weekly average number of reported new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections may be due to the recalibrated strategies implemented by the government, a health official said Monday. In a virtual media forum, Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire noted that the number of […]
Duterte to propose abolishing PhilHealth to Congress
MANILA, Sept 29 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night said he will propose the abolishment of the embattled Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to Congress amid allegations of widespread corruption hounding the state health insurer. “Itong PhilHealth, I am going to propose to Congress to abolish the— Kung i-privatize mo naman, susmaryosep, walang […]
Philippines can rally ‘overwhelming majority’ vs China before UN — Carpio
MANILA, Sept 28 (Mabuhay) — Manila can rally an “overwhelming majority” of allies against Beijing if it raises before the United Nations an arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s claims over the West Philippine Sea, retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio said Monday. President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration has refused to do so over fears that […]
12 provincial bus routes to open in Central Luzon, Calabarzon
MANILA, Sept 28 (Mabuhay) — A total of 12 modified provincial bus routes would be opened in Central Luzon and Calabarzon starting September 30, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced Saturday. Under Memorandum Circular 2020-051, the buses may resume operations provided that they have a valid and existing certificate of public convenience […]
Easing NCR GCQ may lead to COVID-19 surge around Christmas, experts say
MANILA, Sept 26 (Mabuhay) — The country’s number of COVID-19 cases reported daily are on a downward trend but experts from the OCTA research team warned the national government against prematurely downgrading community quarantines particularly in Metro Manila. In its latest report, the OCTA team said that the premature downgrade of the quarantine status in […]
P1-B scholarship fund for children of displaced, deceased OFWs OK’d –Bello
MANILA, Sept 26 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Labor and Employment and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) have partnered to provide a one-time college education subsidy for the children of displaced or deceased overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). In a statement on Saturday, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said the DOLE signed a memorandum of […]
DILG chief to meet with Metro mayors on fate of GCQ
MANILA, Sept 26 (Mabuhay)– Interior Secretary Eduardo Año on Friday said he will meet with Metro Manila mayors on Sunday to discuss the fate of the general community quarantine (GCQ) status in the region amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. “Doon namin tatalakayin ‘yan, papakinggan natin kung ano ‘yung recommendation ng buong Metro Manila […]
Why Liza Soberano filed a complaint over rape remark
MANILA, Sept 26 (Mabuhay) — Actress Liza Soberano on Friday said that she wanted to take a stand for the silent victims of rape, rape jokes and misogyny when she filed a criminal case against a netizen who made a rape remark about her a few days ago. Accompanied by her manager Ogie Diaz and […]
Julia Montes goes back to school
MANILA, Sept 25 (Mabuhay) — Julia Montes is embarking on a new journey —from the comforts of her own home. The actress announced her decision to go back to school on her Instagram, signing up for online classes. “This is how I turn a crisis into an opportunity, doing things I’ve always wanted now that […]
Senators nix ‘unconstitutional’ proposal to postpone 2022 polls
MANILA, Sept 25 (Mabuhay) — Several senators on Friday rejected the proposal to postpone the 2022 elections despite the COVID-19 situation in the Philippines, saying the Constitution must be upheld. This was after House Deputy Majority Leader Mikey Arroyo inquired on the possibility of deferring the upcoming polls during the deliberations on the 2021 budget […]
FDA yet to receive any application for phase 3 trial of COVID-19 vaccine
MANILA, Sept 25 (Mabuhay) — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet received any applications from COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers to hold phase 3 trials in the Philippines, FDA Director General Eric Domingo said Thursday. Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine and the one being developed by Johnson and Johnson have not yet reached the FDA. […]
Avigan trial still awaiting finalization of legal documents –DOH
MANILA, Sept 25 (Mabuhay) — The clinical trials for anti-flu drug Avigan as a treatment for COVID-19 has yet to start in the Philippines because some legal documents are still being ironed out, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said Friday. “We are just waiting for the finalization of the documents, ‘yung clinical trial agreement at […]
Iloilo placed under MECQ from Sept. 25-Oct. 9
MANILA, Sept 25 (Mabuhay) — Iloilo City has reverted to modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) from Sept. 25 to Oct. 9 following the spike in the number of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases, Malacañang said Thursday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this announcement after local officials sought to place the city under a stricter form […]
Tugade not in favor of e-scooters, e-bikes registration — DOTr
MANILA, Sept 24 (Mabuhay) — Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade is not in favor of registering electric bikes and scooters as public transportation is still limited while most of the country is still under community quarantine against COVID-19’s spread. In a statement, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) clarified that there are no official or final guidelines […]
Tagle recovers from Covid-19
MANILA, Sept 24 (Mabuhay) — Former Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle has recovered from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). In an article posted on the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) news website, the news was announced by Pontificio Collegio Filippino (PCF) in Rome on Wednesday. “God wants him to continue serving in […]
Critical utilization rate in PH hospitals has improved: DOH exec
MANILA, Sept 24 (Mabuhay) — The critical utilization rate in public and private hospitals nationwide with regard to the country’s coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) response has improved, a health official said Wednesday. “If we compare from the previous two weeks, for the critical care utilization, for the National Capital Region, in August, we went up […]
DOT checking more tourist destinations for reopening
MANILA, Sept 23 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Tourism is checking the preparedness of tourist destinations for reopening amid the COVID-19 threat, Undersecretary Benito Bengzon Jr. said on Wednesday. Bengzon noted that the department is pursuing a gradual resumption of tourism enterprises in the country. “Unti-unti nating binubuksan ang ating tourist destinations. Ang instruction ni […]
NCR is flattening COVID-19 curve –UP expert
MANILA, Sept 23 (Mabuhay) — Experts from the University of the Philippines on Tuesday said that transmissions of COVID-19 in the country had slowed with Metro Manila flattening the curve of its infections. “The R for the Philippines is .92 and the R for (National Capital Region) is .83. These numbers are below 1 which […]
Thousands of Filipino overseas workers will be brought home, says Duterte
MANILA, Sept 23 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine government aim to continue to bring home thousands of Filipinos working abroad who have been affected by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, said President Rodrigo Duterte. “The Philippine Government has embarked on an unprecedented repatriation program. More than 345,000 overseas Filipino workers needed to come home then.We have […]
Duterte invokes arbitral ruling vs. China in first UN speech
MANILA, Sept 23 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday invoked the country’s arbitral victory in 2016 against China’s massive claims in the South China Sea. In his first speech before the United Nations General Assembly, Duterte said the Philippines rejected any attempt to undermine the July2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in […]
Areas with zero COVID-19 transmission should be classified under new normal — Roque
MANILA, Sept 22 (Mabuhay) — Areas that have registered zero transmission of COVID-19 in a month should be classified under “new normal,” presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said Monday. Roque said his colleagues at the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases were receptive to the idea of reintroducing the new normal classification […]
COVID-19 vaccine may be available in Philippines 2nd quarter of 2021 — DOH
MANILA, Sept 22 (Mabuhay) — The purchase and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines by the Philippine government may only begin in the second quarter of 2021 as foreign manufacturers continue development and trials to ensure their safety and efficacy, the Department of Health (DOH) said. “We need to ensure that all of these vaccines are safe […]
PH raises alert level in Mali due to political unrest
MANILA, Sept 22 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has raised alert level 2 in Mali due to the current political and security situation in the West African country. Under alert level 2, Filipinos are instructed to restrict non-essential movements, avoid public places, and prepare for evacuation. Alert level 2 is issued when […]
PH Covid-19 case count up by 3,475; recoveries now over 230K
MANILA, Sept 22 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday reported 3,475 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the country’s overall tally to 290,190 with only 54,958 active cases. Of the active cases, about 86.6 percent are mild, 8.9 percent are asymptomatic, 1.4 percent are severe, and 3.1 percent are in critical […]
Duterte to address UN for the first time since taking office
MANILA, Sept 21 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte will address the United Nations (UN) for the first time since he took office in 2016. Chief of Presidential Protocol Robert Borje said on Monday the President will deliver this week the Philippines’ statement for the General Debate of the UN General Assembly, which kicked off its […]
Nurses with contracts as of Aug. 31 now allowed to work abroad
MANILA, Sept 21 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has allowed nurses and other healthcare workers with complete documents as of Aug. 31 to leave and work overseas, Malacañang said Monday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the President approved the proposal of Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) to extend the exemption period for healthcare workers from […]
VP Robredo: 200,000 jobs at stake if EU pushes trade sanctions vs PH over human rights issues
MANILA, Sept 21 (Mabuhay)– Over 200,000 Filipinos could lose their jobs if the government fails to meet the standards set by the European Union amid its calls to step up efforts in tackling human rights abuses in the country, Vice President Leni Robredo said Sunday. Citing data from the European Chamber of Commerce in the […]
PH Covid-19 cases rise by 3,311; recoveries now 229,865
MANILA, Sept 21 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday reported 3,311 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the country’s overall tally to 286,743 with only 51,894 active cases. Of the active cases, it said that about 86.6 percent are mild, 8.7 percent are asymptomatic, 1.4 percent are severe, and 3.3 percent […]
Palace says worst of Covid-19 is over
MANILA, Sept 17 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Wednesday claimed that the worst of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) crisis is over since the country has been able to improve its healthcare capacity significantly. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque responded to the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showing that more Filipinos believe that “the worst of […]
2M local workers, OFWs to get aid from Bayanihan 2 — Bello
MANILA, Sept 19 (Mabuhay) — Close to 2 million Filipino workers including displaced overseas Filipino workers are set to benefit from the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act (Bayanihan 2), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Friday. “With this additional budgetary allocation, we expect to aid 700,000 formal sector workers. We also […]
Palace appeals to public: Give ‘staycations’ amid COVID-19 crisis a chance
MANILA, Sept 14 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Monday appealed to the people to give the government’s latest policy allowing hotels to offer “staycations” a chance as the tourism industry suffered losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In a televised briefing, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque defended the new policy amid concerns it may increase the risk […]
Duterte ready to work with Japan’s new PM Yoshihide Suga
MANILA, Sept 18 (Mabuhay) — The Duterte administration is looking forward to working with Japan’s new prime minister Yoshihide Suga to further boost Manila and Tokyo’s bilateral cooperation, Malacañang said on Thursday. “The Duterte Administration is ready to work with Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga in further strengthening the strategic bilateral cooperation building on the special […]
BI deports 129 foreigners to decongest detention facility
MANILA, Sept 18 (Mabuhay) — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Thursday said it has deported 129 foreigners to decongest its detention center in Bicutan, Taguig City, and reduce the risk of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) outbreak. “Total (foreigners): 315. Total deported as of Sept. 15: 129 from BI Warden Facility for Persons Deprived of […]
Duterte yet to decide on proposal to ease travel ban for nurses — Palace
MANILA, Sept 18 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has yet to decide on the proposal of the Labor department to exempt more nurses from the overseas deployment ban due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Malacañang said Thursday. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III has proposed to expand exemptions to those who had contracts abroad as of August […]
Heaven Peralejo denies asking Pacquiaos for financial help
MANILA, Sept 18 (Mabuhay) — Actress Heaven Peralejo took to social media to deny that she asked financial help from the family of her former boyfriend, Jimuel Pacquiao. This comes after veteran entertainment columnist Lolit Solis, in an Instagram post, said the actress asked P100,000 from Jimuel’s father, boxing champion and senator Manny Pacquiao. “The […]
EU Parliament wants to strike down Philippines’ zero-tariff export status
MANILA, Sept 18 (Mabuhay) — Dute to “deteriorating” human rights situation in the Philippines, the European Parliament is pushing for the revocation of the country’s exports tariff exemption. Under the Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) – a mechanism that gives developing countries the privilege of exporting zero-duty merchandise to EU-member states – some of […]
Duterte most likely to extend nat’l state of calamity — Palace
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte will “most likely” extend the declaration of national state of calamity in the country due to coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Malacañang said Monday. In a press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte will likely extend Proclamation 929 that placed the entire Philippines under a […]
Duterte appeals to Malaysia to help Filipinos ‘in your country’
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night appealed to the Malaysian government to help Filipinos “in your country,” despite the “ticklish” issue of Sabah. According to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, 2,000 Filipinos had been repatriated from Sabah, including 400 Filipinos who arrived on Monday. There were still 3,000 Filipinos in Sabah […]
PH Covid-19 cases rise to 265,888; recoveries now 207,504
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday reported 4,699 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the country’s overall tally to 265,888 with only 53,754 active cases. Of the active cases, it said that about 88.4 percent are mild, 8.2 percent are asymptomatic, 2.1 percent severe, and 2.2 percent are […]
CHED opposes academic freeze, pushes for ‘flexible learning’
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is opposed to the proposed academic freeze this school year amid the COVID-19 pandemic. CHED executive director Cinderella Jaro said the proposal seemed based on the “misconception” that tertiary classes for the school year 2020-2021 will be strictly done online. “Yung sinasabi nila na […]
Sanya Lopez says she sacrificed love life to save up for her dream house
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — Making your dream house a reality takes much sacrifice, even for those in the showbiz industry. Sanya Lopez, for example, said that she had to keep a tight control of her spending to be able to afford buying her 200 square meter modern house. But if there’s one thing that […]
Duterte prefers Russia, China’s COVID-19 vaccines as other firms ask for advance payment
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — Some pharmaceutical companies are asking the Philippines to pay in advance for vaccines that are still under development to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday. Duterte slammed the “profit, profit, profit” mindset of Western companies in a televised briefing from Malacañang. […]
Palace appeals to public: Give ‘staycations’ amid COVID-19 crisis a chance
MANILA, Sept 14 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Monday appealed to the people to give the government’s latest policy allowing hotels to offer “staycations” a chance as the tourism industry suffered losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In a televised briefing, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque defended the new policy amid concerns it may increase the risk […]
Philippines logs 3,372 more COVID-19 cases; total at 261,216
MANILA, Sept 14 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) tally leaped to 261,216 on Sunday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 3,372 new infections, marking the sixth straight day in which more than 3,000 new cases were reported. Metro Manila still logged the highest number of new infections at 1,307, followed by […]
Pemberton deported, ‘perpetually’ banned from reentering PH
MANILA, Sept 14 (Mabuhay)– The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Sunday deported US Marine Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton following his release from prison. BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said Pemberton left the country on board a military plane for the United States at exactly 9:14 a.m. “Pemberton has successfully been deported, military plane left at […]
Preps for Pemberton’s deportation underway — BI
MANILA, Sept 12 – Authorities are currently discussing preparations for the impending deportation of US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said on Saturday. “BI agents are conducting a coordination meeting now in Camp Aguinaldo to discuss logistical preparations for Pemberton’s deportation,” BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said in a Viber […]
Alex Gonzaga now has 10 million Instagram followers
MANILA, Sept 12 (Mabuhay)– Alex Gonzaga has now 10 million followers on photo-sharing app Instagram. In her post, Gonzaga thanked all her fans and supporters for her newest social media achievement. As of writing, Gonzaga has 10,027,201 followers on Instagram. Gonzaga is one of the most followed celebrity vloggers with 8 million YouTube subscribers. She […]
WHO solidarity trials might start end Oct, says DOH exec
MANILA, Sept 12 (Mabuhay) — The World Health Organization (WHO) solidarity trials on the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines might start by the last week of October, a health official said Friday. “(In) the fourth week of October, the implementation might start already. And I say the implementation might start because there could be a […]
COVID vaccine in exchange for Pemberton? DOH says no such condition set by US manufacturers
MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) –The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday said none of the US-based manufacturers of COVID-19 vaccine asked for the pardon of US Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton so that the Philippines may be given access to the potential shots that could spell the end of the pandemic. “We have had discussions already […]
Rica Peralejo’s family returns to PH after 6 months in US due to lockdown
MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) — Rica Peralejo has finally returned to the Philippines after an extended stay in the United States due to the coronavirus-induced lockdown, the actress shared on Instagram. “Hi, Manila. We arrived softly on this rainy morning. You are still sleeping, just like my toddler. See you later when we wake up,” […]
Pemberton receives release papers
MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) — US Marine Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton on Friday received his release papers as the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) formally transferred his custody to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) for deportation. BuCor spokesperson Gabriel Chaclag said the transfer was completed at 11:50 a.m. “As of 1150H today, the custody of […]
Philippines’ COVID-19 cases top 245,000 with 3,176 new infections
MANILA, Sept 10 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ tally of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections rose to 245,143 on Wednesday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 3,176 new cases. Metro Manila still recorded the highest number of new infections at 1,327, followed by Batangas with 260, Laguna with 193, Rizal with 176, and Negros Occidental […]
PH, SoKor to continue working together vs. Covid-19, terrorism
MANILA, Sept 10 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines and South Korea will continue working together in responding to various challenges and threats, Philippine Army (PA) commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said on Wednesday. “Our love for our countries, families, ways of life, and democracy will keep the lessons of the Korean War contemporary. Against Covid-19 (coronavirus […]
1.5K Pinoys in UAE join Sinopharm’s vaccine clinical trials
MANILA, Sept 10 (Mabuhay) — Some 1,500 Filipinos in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) participated in Sinopharm’s clinical trial for its candidate vaccine against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Chinese Embassy in Manila confirmed Wednesday. In a statement quoting Ambassador Huang Xilian, the Embassy said the 1,500 Filipinos are among the more than 30,000 […]
No problem with deportation of Pemberton after pardon — DOJ
MANILA, Sept 10 (Mabuhay) — Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday said he does not any see any problem in having pardoned US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton deported from the country. “If there was already a final deportation order against Pemberton, and he is not contesting it, then so be it. Either way, […]
PRRD grateful for Abe’s push to boost PH-Japan ties
MANILA, Sept 8 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday expressed gratitude to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for his “valuable contribution” in strengthening ties between the Philippines and Japan. In a statement from the Office of the President, Duterte conveyed his best wishes for Abe’s speedy and full recovery during a 25-minute phone conversation […]
Philippines allows use of antigen test to detect COVID-19
MANILA, Sept 8 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines has allowed the use of the antigen test that detects cases of COVID-19 rapidly, Malacañang said Tuesday. The antigen test may be used as a pre-boarding requirement for asymptomatic domestic tourists before departure and travel to tourist destinations or as a requirement upon entry at the place of […]
Duterte says Philippines has flattened curve in COVID-19 cases
MANILA, Sept 8 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday declared that the Philippines has “flattened the curve” in its campaign against the spread of COVID-19 in the country. “We had obedience and people followed that meant a lot and contributed to what is happening now that there’s a flattening of cases,” Duterte said on […]
Duterte grants absolute pardon to Pemberton — Palace
MANILA, Sept 8 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has granted absolute pardon to US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton who was convicted for the death of Filipino transgender woman Jennifer Laude, Malacañang said on Monday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this confirmation after Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro “Teddyboy” Locsin Jr. made the announcement on […]
DOH hopes to start Avigan trial in coming weeks
MANILA, Sept 5 (Mabuhay) — The clinical trial for the Japanese antiviral drug Avigan is expected to begin in the next few weeks once the Department of Health (DOH) finalizes the necessary documents for the research. “Hindi pa nauumpisahan ‘yong Avigan trial natin… Atin pong minamadali ang pag-proseso ng mga dokumento, hopefully in the coming […]
2nd Pinoy survivor of missing cattle ship named — DOLE
MANILA, Sept 5 (Mabuhay) –The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Saturday has identified the second rescued Filipino crew member of the capsized Panamanian-flagged vessel Gulf Livestock 1. Citing the report from the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Osaka, Japan, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III identified the second survivor as Jay-Nel Rosales, 30, from […]
Pemberton asks Olongapo court to allow his release
MANILA, Sept 5 (Mabuhay) — US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton on Friday asked the Olongapo City Regional Trial Court (RTC Br. 74) to turn down the motion for reconsideration filed by a relative of victim Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude to stop his release from prison. In a six-page opposition, defense counsel Rowena G. Flores […]
No new, more dangerous SARS-CoV-2 strain in PH — DOH
MANILA, Sept 5 (Mabuhay) — Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire on Friday belied reports that a new and more fatal SARS-CoV-2 strain, the virus causing coronavirus disease (Covid-19), has been spreading in the country. “There is no new strain of the virus here in the Philippines. It is very dangerous and irresponsible to say that […]
3.7K new Covid-19 cases, new recoveries at 1,088 — DOH
MANILA, Sept 5 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday reported 3,714 new cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), bringing the country’s total active cases at 67,786. In its daily Covid-19 bulletin, the DOH said the National Capital Region (NCR) reported the highest number of new cases at 1,797; followed by Negros […]
Pemberton not qualified for GCTA — Laude family lawyer
MANILA, Sept 4 (Mabuhay) — A lawyer for the family of Jennifer Laude said Friday that convicted US Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton is not entitled to good conduct-based deductions to the time he serves in prison. Rommel Bagares of the Center for International Law said Pemberton is unqualified for good conduct time allowances (GCTA) because […]
MTRCB chief: Content regulation on Netflix, other streaming platforms only meant ‘post-monitoring’
MANILA, Sept 4 (Mabuhay) — The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) on Friday said it has no intention of stepping over the viewers’ rights by regulating the content of video on demand platforms like Netflix. “The word kasi na regulate they feel we’re curtailing their freedom. No. MTRCB is not a censoring […]
Russia says Philippines may manufacture anti-COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V
MANILA, Sept 4 (Mabuhay) –Russia is open to the Philippines producing locally the anti-COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V, an official of its embassy in Manila said on Thursday. Tatiana Shlychkova, Minister-Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission at the Russian Embassy in the Philippines, said Russia proposed three options for the Philippines to acquire the vaccine. One […]
1,987 new Covid-19 cases, recoveries now over 159K
MANILA, Sept 4 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday reported 1,987 new coronavirus disease (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 228,403 with only 64,207 active cases. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 91 out of 113 operational laboratories. It reported that […]
Roque deplores court order for Pemberton’s early release
MANILA, Sept 3 (Mabuhay) — Palace Spokesperson Harry Roque on Wednesday slammed the decision of an Olongapo court to approve the early release of United States (US) Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton, who was convicted of killing transgender woman Jennifer Laude in 2014. In a statement, Roque was dismayed by the ruling of Olongapo […]
2,218 new Covid-19 cases, recoveries now over 158K — DOH
MANILA, Sept 3 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday reported 2,218 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 226,440 with only 64,207 active cases. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 102 out of 110 operational laboratories. It reported […]