House panel OKs proposed 12% VAT on some digital service providers
MANILA, July 29 (Mabuhay) — The House ways and means panel has approved a bill seeking to impose a 12% Value Added Tax (VAT) on some foreign and local companies providing goods and services via digital and electronic platforms. Still unnumbered, the substitute bill seeks to amend Section 105-A of the National Internal Revenue with […]
843K local workers, OFWs get cash aid — PRRD
MANILA, July 28 (Mabuhay) — More than 800,000 local and overseas workers affected by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic have benefited from the cash assistance provided by the government, President Rodrigo R. Duterte said on Monday. In his 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasang Pambansa, Duterte reported that some 843,000 […]
DOH: No second wave of COVID-19 yet despite increase in cases
MANILA, July 27 (Mabuhay) — The second wave of COVID-19 pandemic is yet to hit the Philippines despite the increase in the number of cases in the country, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said Monday. Vergeire made the declaration after COVID-19 cases breached 80,000 as of July 26, Sunday, and after four days straight of […]
US military donates P11-M in medical supplies to PH
MANILA, July 27 (Mabuhay) — The United States Army and Marine Corps service members delivered on Monday an additional PHP11.4 million (US$230,600) in medical equipment to hospitals in 11 cities across the Philippines. This new donation brings the total US government pandemic assistance to the Philippines to PHP989 million or more than US$20 million. “This […]
8 to 9 LSIs gathered at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex tested positive for COVID-19 — official
MANILA, July 27 (Mabuhay) — Around eight to nine locally stranded individuals (LSIs) who gathered at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila over the weekend have tested positive for COVID-19 following rapid tests, a government official said Monday. Hatid Tulong Program lead convenor and Presidential Management Staff Assistant Secretary Joseph Encabo said that the […]
DOLE says over 100K OFWs back to their homes
MANILA, July 27 (Mabuhay) — More than 106,200 overseas Filipino workers repatriated by the government amid the coronavirus pandemic have been transported to their home provinces, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reported Sunday. The latest batch of 2,246 home-bound OFWs, who tested negative for Covid-19, took their rides back to their respective provinces […]
Duterte should acknowledge shortcomings in COVID-19 efforts in SONA 2020 — IBON
MANILA, July 27 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte should acknowledge the government’s shortcomings in addressing the coronavirus pandemic in his upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA), research group IBON Foundation said Sunday. According to IBON Foundation executive director Sonny Africa, Duterte should recognize the weaknesses of the administration and ensure that steps are being […]
Philippines logs over 2,000 COVID-19 cases for 4th straight day
MANILA, July 27 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) tally jumped to 80,448 on Sunday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 2,110 new cases, marking the fourth consecutive day over 2,000 new infections were reported. The five provinces with the highest number of new cases were Metro Manila with 1,345, Cebu with […]
Duterte to undergo COVID-19 swab test on Sunday — Nograles
MANILA,July 25 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte is scheduled to undergo COVID-19 swab test on Sunday, July 26, a day before his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA), Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said Saturday. “Baka tomorrow din siguro,” Nograles said when asked when Duterte will be tested. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque earlier said the […]
IATF okays PH participation in Covid-19 vaccine global access
MANILA, July 24 (Mabuhay) — The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) has approved the country’s participation in a global initiative that guarantees access to coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines worldwide. “The members of the IATF likewise approved the participation of the Philippines in the Gavi Covid-19 Vaccines Global Access […]
2,200 new cases push Philippines’ COVID-19 tally to 74,390
MANILA, July 24 (Mabuhay) — The number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines leapt to 74,390 on Thursday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 2,200 more infections, 1,314 of which were “fresh” or newly validated and 886 were reported late. This marks the ninth consecutive day where over 1,300 new infections […]
ADB loans to Philippines to reach record high $4.2B in 2020
MANILA, July 24 (Mabuhay) — Loans of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to the Philippines are expected to reach a record-high $4.207 billion this year, with the lion’s share going to efforts against the coronavirus disease 2019. According to ADB Philippines country director Kelly Bird, the ADB’s 2020 lending program is the biggest so far […]
Mt. Bulusan shows signs of potential eruption — Phivolcs
LEGAZPI CITY, July 24 (Mabuhay) — The series of tremors that have been rocking Mt. Bulusan in Sorsogon and the bulging at its edifice are apparent signs that the volcano’s state of restlessness is rising. April Dominguiano, resident volcanologist of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) in the province, in an interview on […]
Philippines reimposes non-essential foreign travel restriction for citizens
MANILA, July 23 (Mabuhay)– The Philippines reimposed the restriction on non-essential outbound travel for Filipinos, Malacañang announced Thursday. In a televised briefing, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the government’s COVID-19 task force made the decision since only one health and travel insurance company agreed to provide such service. However, those with confirmed bookings as of […]
Pacquiao joins roster of PH Army advisers
MANILA, July 23 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Army (PA) on Wednesday welcomed Senator Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao as the newest member of its Multi-Sector Advisory Board (MSAB). The Filipino boxing icon, who is also an Army reserve colonel, took his oath and received his Army Transformation Roadmap pin via video teleconferencing in a ceremony led by […]
Dingdong’s delivery service app hires, helps out-of-work showbiz workers
MANILA, July 22 (Mabuhay) — Dingdong Dantes’ food delivery service app has been hiring showbiz workers who lost their jobs amid the community quarantine. The riders were given a five-day training with the help of Yes Pinoy Foundation and other agencies. Carlo Kaunes, a stuntman of “Descendants of the Sun,” said he has been feeling […]
Ex-DOH chief says gov’t should be open to criticism over pandemic
MANILA, July 22 (Mabuhay) — A former Philippine health secretary on Tuesday urged the government to take criticisms “constructively” as officials come under increasing pressure to arrest the rising number of coronavirus cases in the country, despite imposing one of the world’s longest lockdowns. A number of individuals have come under fire from authorities for […]
PH to repatriate remains of 57 more Saudi OFWs next week
MANILA, July 22 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines is set to repatriate the third batch of the remains of 57 more overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Saudi Arabia next week, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Tuesday. DOLE Secretary Silvestre Bello III said the chartered Philippine Airlines cargo flight will arrive in Manila […]
Philippines’ COVID-19 cases now over 83,000 with 1,678 new infections
MANILA, July 29 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ tally of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases topped 83,000 on Tuesday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 1,678 more infections, bringing the total to 83,673. This marks the 14th consecutive day during which more than 1,300 new cases were reported. The five provinces with the highest number […]
DFA confirms it investigated sexual harassment complaint vs. ex-envoy to Korea
MANILA, July 18 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs on Saturday confirmed it investigated a sexual harassment complaint filed against the former Philippine ambassador to Korea. The complaint was filed in February this year before the Philippine Embassy in Seoul while the envoy was in Manila for official business. The embassy then forwarded the […]
Lacson to US lawmakers opposing anti-terror law: ‘Shut up, hypocrites’
MANILA, July 18 (Mabuhay) — Senator Panfilo Lacson on Friday questioned the moral ascendancy of some US Congress members to oppose and criticize the Philippines’ anti-terror law. “I wonder how many among those 50 or so members of the US Congress voted in favor of their own country’s Anti-Terrorism Act of 2001… These US Congress […]
50k more OFWs expected to be repatriated by end-July — DFA
MANILA, July 18 (Mabuhay) — At least 50,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are expected to be repatriated by the end of July due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy, a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) official said Friday. Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Sarah Arriola made the announcement before the House Committee […]
124 terrorists killed in 1st half of 2020 — Army
MANILA, July 18 (Mabuhay) — Some 124 terrorists were killed in 279 armed encounters against communist and local terror groups in the first semester of 2020, the Philippine Army (PA) said on Saturday. In a statement, Army commander Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay said 95 others were captured while 422 firearms were seized from these operations […]
BI ready to impose IATF rule on entry of foreigners
MANILA, July 17 (Mabuhay) — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Friday said it is ready to implement the new resolution of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) allowing the entry of foreigners with existing visas into the country. “We have yet to see the new IATF resolution but […]
De Lima tells Duterte: ‘Kung pagod ka na, mas pagod kami sa pamumuno mo’
MANILA, July 17 (Mabuhay) — The Filipino people are allegedly getting exasperated over President Rodrigo Duterte’s obliviousness to their needs in the past four years and especially now that there is a pandemic, detained Senator Leila de Lima said Friday as the fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) approaches. “Ginoong Duterte: Kung bukambibig mong […]
US lawmakers urge Philippine gov’t to repeal anti-terror law
MANILA, July 16 (Mabuhay) — At least 45 lawmakers in the US urged the Philippine government to immediately repeal the recently-signed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. In a virtual press conference on Wednesday night (Manila time), Representative Janice Schakowsky of Illinois called the law a new ‘weapon’ to suppress dissent in the Philippines. “We stand together […]
NCR still under GCQ; Cebu City eases to MECQ
MANILA, July 16 (Mabuhay) — After a month of being under the most restrictive enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) due to a spike in coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases, Cebu City has eased to a less restrictive modified ECQ from July 16 to 31. President Rodrigo Duterte decided to downgrade the quarantine classification in Cebu City, Presidential […]
1,392 new cases bring Philippines’ COVID-19 tally to 58,850
MANILA, July 16 (Mabuhay)– The Philippines’ tally of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) rose to 58,850 on Wednesday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 1,392 more infections—512 “fresh” or newly validated and 880 reported late. The five provinces with the highest number of new cases were Metro Manila with 708, Cebu with 198, Iloilo with […]
Hold departure order issued vs crew of MV Vienna Wood — PCG spox
MANILA, July 16 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Wednesday said its motion to issue hold departure order against crew members of MV Vienna Wood has been granted, spokesman Commodore Armand Balilo said Wednesday. Balilo confirmed to reporters that the respondents of the criminal complaint for reckless imprudence resulting to multiple homicide and […]
Duterte ‘unlikely’ to call for special session of Congress to pass Bayanihan 2 — Palace
MANILA, July 16 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte will not likely call for a special session of Congress to pass the bill on the country’s COVID-19 recovery program, Malacañang said Wednesday. Duterte’s spokesperson Harry Roque said the proposed measure will be deliberated after Congress resumes session on July 27. “I don’t think we will be […]
Solon proposes to use ABS-CBN frequencies for distance learning
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — A lawmaker has proposed the temporary use by the government of ABS-CBN’s former television and radio frequencies for effective distance learning. Deputy Speaker Luis Raymund Villafuerte filed on Tuesday House Resolution 1044, a copy of which was sent to the media on Wednesday. Villafuerte said the unused frequencies can be tapped to […]
Duque claims Philippines has flattened COVID-19 curve then takes it back
MANILA, July 16 (Mabuhay) — Health Secretary Francisco Duque III on Wednesday claimed the Philippines has succeeded in flattening the curve amid the COVID-19 pandemic, only to take it back later and admitted that the number of cases is still rising. Duque made the pronouncements just two days after over 2,000 new COVID-19 cases were […]
COVID-19 testing widened further for economy’s reopening — Vergeire
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health has expanded the testing guidelines for COVID-19, now including teachers, as well as workers in tourism, transportation, manufacturing sectors, among other related industries. In a press conference on Wednesday, DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergiere said the new guidelines have been already signed by Secretary Francisco Duque III. “[Na]-expand […]
DepEd says ready for coming school year
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Department of Education (DepEd) said Wednesday it was ready to start the coming school year in August, which will see a shift from traditional in-person classes to an unprecedented distance learning scheme. Education Secretary Leonor Briones said the DepEd was ready to start classes based on simulations of distance learning conducted […]
80k COVID-19 cases in Philippines seen by end of July — UP expert
MANILA, (Mabuhay) –Th e total number of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines may breach the 80,000 mark by the end of July, according to an expert from the University of the Philippines Institute of Mathematics on Monday. “Tatama talaga ng 70,000 and higit pa. Ang lower estimate natin ngayon nasa 80,000 na eh, sa end […]
Contact tracers must have ‘investigative mindset,’ Magalong says
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Tracing czar and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong on Monday said contact tracers needed at this time of COVID-19 pandemic should have an “investigative mindset.” At a press briefing, Magalong said contact tracers, especially those conducting interviews among patients, are composed of medical personnel and police investigators. “Ang isa sa mga qualifications […]
DOH fails to report daily tally of COVID-19 cases on Sunday, cites ‘significant volume of data’
MANILA, July 13 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) announced late Sunday night that it will release the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) case updates for July 12 on Monday morning instead, citing a “significant volume of data” that still needs to be processed. In a statement sent to reporters near midnight, hours after the […]
DENR promotes plant-based diet to fight climate change
MANILA, July 13 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Saturday urged Filipinos to help fight climate change by switching to plant-based diet, which has been shown to reduce the ecological footprint of human food consumption. In a press release, the DENR, through its Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), has launched a […]
75% of Filipinos in favor of ABS-CBN franchise renewal — SWS survey
MANILA, July 13 (Mabuhay) — A Social Weather Stations poll found that three out of four Filipinos or 75 percent of those polled were in favor of Congress renewing ABS-CBN’s franchise, and over half of those polled considered a non-renewal a major blow to press freedom. The SWS’ National Mobile Phone Survey, taken from July […]
Move to kill ABS-CBN’s franchise bid damages trust in gov’t- Archbishop Soc Villegas
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The House franchise committee’s decision to deny ABS-CBN Corp’s bid for a new broadcast license has “damaged people’s trust in the workings of the government,” Lingayen Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas said on Saturday. In a statement, the former chief of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said that members of […]
FDA approves a total of 204 COVID-19 test kits
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Food and Drug Administration on Friday said it has approved a total of 204 COVID-19 test kits so far. These include 71 polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based test kits, 77 rapid antibody test kits, 51 immunoassay test kits, and five others. The number of COVID-19 cases reached 52,914 on Friday, according to […]
DOH cautiously accepted forecast of 100k COVID-19 cases by end-August
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health accepts the projection that the COVID-19 cases will reach 100,000 by the end of August but noted the estimate should be interpreted with ‘caution’. In a press conference on Wednesday, DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire pointed out that some factors can still affect the scientific models used to […]
Nothing to worry about, Palace says following bubonic plague case in China
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Malacañang assured the public on Thursday that the country’s borders remain closed in light of the COVID-19 pandemic after a case of bubonic plague was recorded in China this week. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the Philippines is taking the matter seriously. “Sineseryoso po natin ‘yan. Pero huwag po kayong mabahala kasi […]
BI division recommends filing deportation case vs. Chinese who hurt cyclist, spat on guard
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — An official of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Saturday said a recommendation has been made to file a deportation case against a Chinese national who recently hurt a cyclist and spat on a security guard. BI National Operations Center spokesperson and chief Melvin Mabulac said the Chinese national identified as Dong […]
DFA, UNDP facilitate 500K masks donation to DOH
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) witnessed the handover of 500,000 surgical masks donated by the Soong Ching Ling Foundation (SCLF) of Beijing, China, through the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) last July 8. The surgical masks, valued at 1.2 million Chinese renminbi, were turned over by UNDP Country Representative Titon Mitra […]
‘Build, Build, Build’ important to revive PH economy
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The government remains committed to implement its ambitious “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program to revive the country’s economy that entered recession due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Malacañang said on Thursday. “Kabahagi pa rin po at importante pa rin ang papel ng ‘Build, Build, Build’ para sa ating recovery mula […]
Covid-19 cases exceed 50K; recoveries now 12.5K
MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday reported 2,539 additional coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the total to 50,359. In its case bulletin, the DOH said 617 of the additional cases are “late” or results belatedly reported that were only verified recently, while 1,922 are “fresh cases” or results […]
Actress gets job as waitress in Australia amid pandemic
MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) — Rich Asuncion recently opened up about her life in Australia as she hopes to inspire her social media followers to keep moving forward even during challenging times. In a lengthy Instagram post, the actress said she has been working as a waitress amid the pandemic. Asuncion admitted that she had […]
Duterte to Filipinos: Let’s build ‘better, more prosperous’ PH
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — As the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic continues to grapple the country, President Rodrigo Duterte has enjoined Filipinos to help his administration build a “better and more prosperous” Philippines. Duterte made the call on Wednesday ahead of his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27. “As we look to […]
DFA: Philippines begins coordination with international partners for COVID-19 vaccine availability
MANILA, July 10 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs on Friday said the Philippine government has started coordinating with various international partners to ensure availability of potential vaccine against the deadly coronavirus for Filipinos. “Based on the gathered information by the department, collaboration with Philippine subsidiaries of vaccine developers, engagement with those overseas for […]
ABS-CBN franchise lies with Congress not with Duterte admin — DOF
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Issues regarding the franchise of embattled ABS-CBN Corp. are not with the administration but with Congress, according to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, who heads the economic cluster. Dominguez on Wednesday said the franchise issue of ABS-CBN lies strictly with Congress, even as President Rodrigo Duterte earlier threatened to oppose the franchise […]
Pneumonia vaccine indirectly strengthens body vs COVID-19, says expert
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Vaccination against pneumonia helps the body indirectly strengthen itself against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), according to a pediatric specialist. Dr. John Ong urged the Philippines to continue using the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) 13 as the country grapples with the coronavirus menace. “If you are inoculated for pneumonia, you are indirectly […]
Vietnam eyes stronger naval cooperation with PH
MANILA, July 10 (Mabuhay) — Vietnam has expressed its willingness to strengthen its naval cooperation with the Philippines. Vietnamese Ambassador to Manila Hoang Huy Chung made this assurance in a courtesy call on Philippine Navy (PN) chief Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo at the Navy headquarters in Manila on Thursday. “The Vietnam Ambassador also expressed […]
PH issues temporary moratorium on participation in US EVP
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Philippines has issued a temporary moratorium on the participation of Filipino nationals in the United States Exchange Visitor Program (EVP) amid the current coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. The Philippine Exchange Visitor Program (EVP) Committee, in an advisory, cited the “urgent nature and life-threatening implications” associated with the health crisis that […]
Border security tightened on LSIs sneaking into E. Visayas
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday ordered all police commanders, especially in Eastern Visayas, to further strengthen border control amid reports of locally stranded individuals (LSIs) sneaking into various areas where a travel ban is in effect. Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, commander of the Joint Task Force Covid Shield, said he […]
PH cannot afford total reopening of economy — Duterte
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Philippines cannot follow other countries’ move to completely reopen the economy amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Tuesday. In a taped public address aired on state-run PTV-4 early Wednesday, Duterte said he can only order the gradual reopening of the Philippine economy. “We have to […]
Duterte: PH still grappling against 1st wave of COVID-19
MANILA, July 8 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines is still battling the first wave of COVID-19, President Rodrigo Duterte said early Wednesday, as the country’s coronavirus infections neared 48,000. “Have we arrived at the second wave? I don’t think so. We’re still grappling the first wave,” the President said in a streamed public briefing aired 1 […]
Palace calls for conscience vote on ABS-CBN franchise as hearings wrap up
MANILA, July 8 (Mabuhay) — Members of Congress should vote on the ABS-CBN franchise issue according to their conscience, Malacañang said Tuesday as lawmakers wrap up this week their hearings on bills seeking to grant the broadcasting network a fresh 25-year license to operate. President Rodrigo Duterte remains “neutral” on the company’s bid for a […]
Pope Francis appoints 3 Pinoy priests as ‘missionaries of mercy’
MANILA, July 8 (Mabuhay) — Pope Francis has appointed three Filipino priests as “missionaries of mercy,” according to a report posted on the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) website. The new appointees are all from the Diocese of Balanga in Bataan, namely: Fr. Jhoen Buenaventura, Fr. Joseph Quicho and Fr. Jesus Navoa. They […]
Almost 600 patients in PH participate in clinical trials for COVID-19 treatment
MANILA, July 6 (Mabuhay) — There are now almost 600 patients in the Philippines enrolled in tho World Health Organization’s clinical trials for possible COVID-19 treatments, according to the Department of Health. The DOH released the information as two of the Solidarity Trial tracks were discontinued because the drugs were deemed ineffective. Based on DOH […]
Solons to make recommendations in IRR for new anti-terror law — Biazon
MANILA, July 6 (Mabuhay) — Muntinlupa City Representative Ruffy Biazon on Sunday said he and some of his fellow congressmen will come up with recommendations in the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the newly-enacted Anti-Terrorism Law of 2020 to address the public fears stemming from to the controversial law. “May mga kasamahan ako sa […]
DOH halts use of HIV drug combination for hospitalized COVID-19 patients
MANILA, July 6 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health said Sunday it would stop the use of combination HIV drug lopinavir and ritonavir in its treatment of hospitalized COVID-19 patients following the World Health Organization’s move. The agency had also previously discontinued using anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine, according to Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire. “Based on […]
Bulusan alert level remains ‘normal’ despite volcanic activities
MANILA, July 6 (Mabuhay) — Bulusan Volcano is still under normal behavior despite volcanic activities observed in the last 24 hours, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) director Renato Solidum Jr. said Sunday. Solidum said seismicity, ground deformation and sulfur dioxide are within background levels, and it has only been in the past two […]
Anti-Terror Council to start crafting IRR
MANILA, July 6 (Mabuhay) — Members of the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) are set to meet to review the newly-signed anti-terrorism law to ensure they have a common understanding of the Republic Act 11479 and craft its implementing rules and regulations (IRR). National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., who is also vice chair of the ATC, […]
31 countries open borders to Filipinos — DFA
MANILA, July 6 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs reported Sunday that of the 177 countries/territories across the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, and Middle East/Africa included in the updated infographics on travel restrictions, 31 have already lifted the inbound border restrictions on Filipino travelers, subject to medical protocols on arriving passengers. In […]
Philippine COVID-19 tally tops 44,000 with record-high 2,434 new cases
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines breached the 44,000 mark on Sunday after the Department of Health (DOH) reported a record-high 2,434 more infections—1,147 “fresh” or newly validated and 1,287 reported late—bringing the total to 44,254. Total recoveries also rose to 11,942 after 489 more patients recovered […]
Wirecard scandal used names of PH banks to ‘cover perpetrators tracks’ — BSP Diokno
MANILA, July 6 (Mabuhay) — The Wirecard scandal used the names of the country’s top lenders to cover fraudsters tracks, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno said Monday. During a Malacanang video conference, Diokno reiterated that the missing $2.1 billion of the German payment provider did not enter the country’s financial system. “The international […]
Duterte signs anti-terror bill into law
MANILA, July 4 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has signed into law a measure that seeks to give the country more teeth to curb terror threats and acts, Malacañang announced on Friday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea confirmed in separate text messages that the anti-terror bill is already passed into law. […]
66,000 stranded OFWs sent back to home provinces since May 15 — OWWA
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Around 66,000 repatriated Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were stranded in Metro Manila due to restrictions implemented amid the COVID-19 pandemic are already in their home provinces. Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) administrator Hans Leo Cacdac said in a forum on Monday that 34,000 of them were seafarers, while 32,000 were land-based […]
Foreign business travelers may be allowed entry to Philippines under MGCQ– DOT exec
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Business travelers from other countries may be allowed to enter the Philippines once quarantine restrictions have been eased to modified general community quarantine (GCQ), an official of the Department of Tourism (DOT) said Sunday. Tourism Undersecretary Bong Bengzon said that it is the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious […]
14 missing after fishing boat collides with Hong Kong cargo ship off Mindoro
MANILA, June 29 (Mabuhay) — Fourteen people were reported missing after their fishing boat collided with a Hong Kong-flagged cargo vessel off the coast of Occidental Mindoro, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Monday. Among the 14 missing is the fishing boat’s captain and two passengers, the PCG said. The PCG on Monday said […]
BSP pegs Q2 economic performance at -5.7% to -6.7%, bringing Philippines to technical recession
MANILA, June 29 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine economy could contract by as much as 6.7% in the second quarter, which would put the Philippines in a technical recession, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno said Monday. According to Diokno, the economy is likely to register an economic performance ranging between -5.7% and -6.7% […]
Duterte calls for recalibrated Asean plans to address Covid-19
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has sought the recalibration of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (Asean) plans to ensure the region’s faster recovery from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Malacañang said Friday. Duterte made the call on his fellow Southeast Asian leaders when he delivered a seven-minute speech during the 36th Asean […]
Steam inhalation may trigger COVID-19 spread – DOH exec
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) warned Friday that a home remedy being pushed by the Cebu provincial government against COVID-19 might end up spreading the new coronavirus. “Tuob,” a type of steam inhalation using hot water infused with herbal properties, can “aerosolize” the virus and “may lead to further transmission of the […]
PH retains highest classification in US anti-TIP standards
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The United States retained Manila’s Tier 1 status in its annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report, the highest classification, for the fifth year in a row. The State Department recognized Manila’s assistance to a total of 6,772 potential trafficking victims and around 1,143 Filipino trafficking survivors from the Middle East and Asia. […]
DOT eyes allowing entry of tourists from countries with low to zero COVID-19 cases
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Friday bared plans to allow foreign tourists from countries with relatively low cases of COVID-19 to visit certain tourist destinations in the country, in a bid to revive the hard-hit tourism sector. “We are looking at in the near future, what we call travel bubbles or […]
PRRD urges Asean to find ‘innovative ways’ to end sea disputes
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Friday enjoined the other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) to look for “innovative” ways to resolve the long-standing disputes in the resource-rich South China Sea. Duterte, in a speech delivered during the 36th annual Asean summit, maintained that tensions among South China Sea […]
Palace says PH winning fight vs. Covid-19, disputes WHO report
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Philippines is winning the fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), Malacañang said Monday, after the country defied the number of cases projected by a University of the Philippines (UP) study. “In terms of positivity rate, in terms of case-doubling rate, in case of mortality rate, we are winning. As, in fact, […]
2M Filipino women expected to get pregnant this year –POPCOM
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Nearly two million Filipino women between ages 15 and 49 years old are expected to get pregnant this year, according to the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM). POPCOM said these numbers were from the University of the Philippines Population Institute (UPPI) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), whose recent study […]
DND chief backs US exec’s warning vs. China ADIZ in WPS
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Thursday concurred with the warning of a ranking United States military official saying the air defense identification zone (ADIZ) planned by China in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) “goes against rules-based order”. “Yes, I agree. First, an ADIZ by China over […]
$3.1B of ‘hot money’ exited PHL in January-May — BSP
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Foreign portfolio investments (FPI) or “hot money” yielded a net outflow of $3.1 billion million in the first five months of 2020 due to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic and other external pressures, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Thursday. FPI is also called hot money because of the ease by […]
No COVID-19 deaths recorded in Eastern Visayas despite surge in cases, Año says
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Even though there is an increase in the number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in Eastern Visayas, no death was recorded in the region, specifically in the province of Leyte, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said Thursday. “Totoo na nag-surge talaga ang positive cases sa kabuuan ng Region VIII pero pinakamarami sa […]
Keep windows open, let air circulate in PUVs as public transpo gradually resumes — solon
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — ACT-CIS party-list Representative Jocelyn Tulfo on Thursday urged the government to adopt guidance from international health organizations against COVID-19 to keep windows open and let air circulate in public utility vehicles as it gradually allows the resumption of operations of public transportation in many areas of the country. In a statement, Tulfo […]
OFWs’ data protected in information tracking system — DOLE
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — An official of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Thursday assured data privacy protection for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who will register to the OFW Assistance Information System (OASIS). In a Laging Handa briefing, Labor Assistant Secretary Alex Avila said the information they will be getting through the system are […]
IMF sees Philippine economy shrinking further by 3.6% in 2020
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine economy will contract further this year due to the global economic disruption brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, International Monetary Fund projections indicate. In its World Economic Outlook update released Wednesday night, the IMF expected the Philippine’s gross domestic product (GDP) to shrink by 3.6% in 2020. This […]
Drilon to OWWA: Facilitate speedy repatriation of 150K OFWs
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — Repatriate all 150,000 overseas Filipinos affected by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic first and let’s talk about funding later. Thus said Senate Minority Leader Franklin M. Drilon to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) after OWWA Administrator Hans Cacdac admitted that the ongoing repatriation of OFWs, if it continues next […]
UV express vans, traditional PUJs to resume ops next week — LTFRB
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairman Martin Delgra on Wednesday said UV Express vans and traditional public utility jeepneys (PUJs) will be allowed to resume transport operations in Metro Manila starting next week. “[They could start operating] next week for both UV and traditional jeepneys… For Monday may […]
Philippines’ COVID-19 tally breaches 32,000 with 470 new infections
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — The number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines breached the 32,000 mark on Wednesday after the Department of Health (DOH) reported 470 more infections—357 “fresh” or newly validated and 113 reported late—bringing the total to 32,295. Total recoveries also rose to 8,656 after 214 more patients recovered […]
More than 90K workers displaced during first 6 months — DOLE
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairman Martin Delgra on Wednesday said UV Express vans and traditional public utility jeepneys (PUJs) will be allowed to resume transport operations in Metro Manila starting next week. “[They could start operating] next week for both UV and traditional jeepneys… For Monday may […]
Kanlaon Volcano’s quakes show no sign yet of magma rising — Solidum
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — Recent earthquakes in Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island do not indicate that magma is rising from beneath its edifice to the main crater, the head of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said. PHIVOLCS Officer-in-Charge Undersecretary Renato Solidum Jr. said the recent earthquakes were recorded only at the base […]
Drilon to OWWA: Facilitate speedy repatriation of 150K OFWs
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — Repatriate all 150,000 overseas Filipinos affected by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic first and let’s talk about funding later. Thus said Senate Minority Leader Franklin M. Drilon to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) after OWWA Administrator Hans Cacdac admitted that the ongoing repatriation of OFWs, if it continues next […]
Robredo says OVP has helped more than 700 locally stranded individuals go home this week
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Vice President Leni Robredo on Saturday said her office has assisted more than 700 locally stranded individuals (LSIs) in Metro Manila to go home to their provinces this week. “Umabot muli sa higit 700 na locally stranded individuals (LSIs) ang ating natulungang makauwi ngayong linggo dahil sa patuloy na pakikipagtulungan ng ating […]
Philippine health care system still has enough capacity to care for COVID-19 patients — DOH
MANILA, June 20 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine health care system’s current critical care utilization rate (CCUR) is not yet fully exhausted, meaning the system still has enough capacity to care for those in need of critical care during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Health (DOH) said Saturday. “‘Yung critical care utilization rate, ito po […]
Gov’t to prepare 2nd phase of plans vs. Covid-19
MANILA, June 20 (Mabuhay)– The government sought a second phase of operation concepts and plans to boost its battle against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic in the country, the chief implementer of the National Action Plan (NAP) on Covid-19 said on Friday. Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., also a presidential peace adviser, said the Inter-Agency […]
DOH: Don’t buy dexamethasone for the purpose of preventing COVID-19
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health on Saturday advised the public not to flock to drugstores to buy dexamethasone for use in preventing COVID-19. “Dapat ‘yung mga kababayan natin, ‘wag bumili kasi ‘di naman siya magagamit to prevent, hindi naman siya magagamit para gamutin ang COVID-19,” Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said. Malacañang on […]
PRRD renews ties with 4 countries, state of Palestine
MANILA, June 20 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has ensured that the Philippines will continue to have “friendly and cooperative” relations with Canada, Iran, Vietnam, New Zealand, and Palestine, Malacañang said on Friday. Duterte gave the guarantee during the presentation of credentials of the five countries’ ambassadors held at Malacañan Palace on Friday afternoon, the […]
PhilHealth no longer requires OFWs to pay premiums before getting employment certificate
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) is no longer requiring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to pay their premium contributions as a requirement to secure an overseas employment certificate (OEC). PhilHealth President Ricardo Morales made the remark on Tuesday during the virtual organizational meeting of the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on Universal Health […]
Business tycoon Danding Cojuangco Jr passes away at 85
MANILA, June 17 (Mabuhay) — Business tycoon Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco Jr. has passed away. Cojuangco’s death was announced by San Miguel Corporation, of which he was chairman and chief executive officer, in a statement on Wednesday. “San Miguel Corporation announces the passing of its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Eduardo M. Cojuangco Jr., on […]
Spanish man in Dasma Village incident ‘perpetually banned’ from entering Philippines — PH Bureau of Immigration
MANILA, June 16 (Mabuhay) — The Spanish citizen who figured in an altercation with a police officer in a posh Makati subdivision last April is now “perpetually banned” from entering the Philippines, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said Tuesday. Javier Salvador Parra is barred from re-entering the country after it was confirmed that he has […]
Customs seizes P2.7M in dollar bills hidden inside magazines from HK
MANILA, June 15 (Mabuhay) –Customs authorities have seized P2.7 million worth of US dollar bills inserted in pages of various magazines declared as “Chinese Cook Book Recipes” which entered the country last month. In a statement on Sunday, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said the shipments declared as “Chinese Cook Book Recipes” arrived from Hong […]
Coronavirus causing COVID-19 is not weakening, San Lazaro Hospital doctor says
MANILA, June 15 (Mabuhay) — An official of the San Lazaro Hospital on Sunday belied claims that the coronavirus causing COVID-19 is losing its potency. San Lazaro Hospital’s Adult Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Section chair Dr. Rontgene Solante added that the coronavirus can still spread easily. “Ang virus hindi humihina. Hindi nagbabago ang anyo. […]
US official thanks DND for supporting Philippine gov’t’s decision to suspend VFA
MANILA, June 15 (Mabuhay) — US Defense Secretary Mark Esper on Friday expressed appreciation for the support the Department of National Defense (DND) gave the Philippine government in its decision to suspend the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement. Esper and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana had a conference call on Friday to discuss US-Philippines relations, […]
Coronavirus survivor Iza Calzado donates plasma for patients
MANILA, June 13 (Mabuhay) — Actress Iza Calzado, one of the first local high-profile cases of coronavirus, shared that she has donated blood in the hope of helping other patients recover. On Instagram, Calzado shared a photo of her holding the bag of blood she had donated at the Philippine General Hospital. The successful donation […]
Duterte ‘inclined’ to sign anti-terror bill into law — PH Palace
MANILA, June 16 (Mabuhay) — Despite opposition from various sectors, President Rodrigo Duterte is “inclined” to sign the anti-terrorism bill, Malacañang said Tuesday. “I think he is inclined to sign it,” Roque said. The anti-terrorism bill, which seeks to replace the Human Security Act, the country’s existing law against terrorism, is being reviewed by Malacañang […]
NCR remains under GCQ; Cebu City back to ECQ
MANILA, June 16 (Mabuhay)– President Rodrigo Duterte has retained the general community quarantine (GCQ) classification in Metro Manila and reverted Cebu City to enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) until June 30. In a televised meeting late Monday night, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III announced the new community quarantine classifications based on the recommendation of the Inter-Agency […]
Gov’t should intensify reintegration programs for OFWs – Villanueva
MANILA, June 15 (Mabuhay) — The government must “further intensify” and expand the implementation of reintegration programs for overseas Filipino workers who find themselves back in the country due to COVID-19, Senator Joel Villanueva said Sunday. In a statement, Villanueva said skills training provided by TESDA and other interventions must be given to OFWs to […]
DTI supports legislation to boost e-commerce law in PH
MANILA, June 15 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in commemoration of the 20th year of Republic Act 8792 or the Electronic Commerce Act of 2000, has committed to implement policies to strengthen and grow e-commerce in the country while supporting current legislative measures by Congress. “Twenty years after this pioneering legislation […]
Pinoys urged to have ‘courage, hope, optimism’ amid health crisis
MANILA, June 12 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday called on his fellow Filipinos to live with “courage, hope, and optimism” even as the country continues its battle against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. Duterte made the call in a taped video message played during the 122nd Independence Day rites at the Rizal […]
‘Filipinos will not cower to China,’ Hontiveros says on Independence Day
MANILA, June 12 (Mabuhay) — Senator Risa Hontiveros on Friday said Filipinos will not cower to China amid what she said were Beijing’s continued incursions in the West Philippine Sea. In an online rally she led on Independence Day, Hontiveros reiterated her earlier demand for China to pay the Philippines at least P200 billion as […]
BIR memo aimed at getting online sellers to register — DOF
MANILA, June 12 (Mabuhay) — The controversial move of the Bureau of Internal Revenue requiring those into digital transactions to register and declare past transactions is not meant to squeeze money out of online sellers’ incomes, the Department of Finance said Friday. DOF Revenue Operations Group Undersecretary Antonette Tionko said, the purpose is to get […]
ADB approves $500-M loan for Philippine 4Ps program
MANILA, June 11 (Mabuhay)– Japan-led multilateral lender Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved another loan for the Philippines, this time $500 million to expand the conditional cash transfer program. In a statement on Wednesday, the ADB said the approved loan will cover the expanded Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) introduced in 2008. “The 4Ps program […]
US Embassy cancels visa services through July 3; resumption indefinite
MANILA, June 11 (Mabuhay)– The US Embassy in the Philippines on Thursday announced that it is cancelling all immigrant and non-immigrant visa interviews scheduled through July 3 due to the community quarantine implemented to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the country. “We will resume routine visa services as soon as possible but are unable […]
Difficult for Philippines to achieve New Zealand’s zero COVID-19 feat — Palace
MANILA, June 11 (Mabuhay) — It will be difficult for the Philippines to achieve New Zealand’s feat of having zero COVID-19 cases, Malacañang said on Wednesday. In an interview with state-run PTV, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said zero cases would be difficult to attain given the Philippines’ population density, especially in urban centers like Metro […]
OFWs need to submit names, destinations before returning to PH
MANILA, June 11 (Mabuhay) — A new protocol will be implemented in the processing of returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Wednesday. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said returning OFWs will now be required to submit pertinent information to the agency before they leave their host countries. […]
Veteran actress Anita Linda passes away at 95
MANILA, June 10 (Mabuhay) — Veteran actress Anita Linda passed on Wednesday, June 10, at 6:15 am at age 95 at her home in Paranaque. Linda’s daughter, Francesca, said her mother succumbed to heart failure after several days of labored breathing. The actress’ daughter also disclosed that Linda had late stage dementia at the time […]
Proposal to seize China assets in the Philippines for WPS damage needs further study — Hontiveros
MANILA, June 10 (Mabuhay) — Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday said the suggestion to seize China’s assets in the Philippines as payback for the damage it has caused in the disputed territorial waters needs further study to determine if such is allowed by the Constitution. The lawmaker made the comment after she was asked if […]
Stricter quarantine rules possible if Covid-19 cases rise — Palace
MANILA, June 10 (Mabuhay) — The government might be compelled to impose stricter quarantine restrictions if the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections continue to rise, Malacañang said on Tuesday. In a virtual presser aired on state-run PTV-4, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque raised the possibility that the community quarantine might be tighter anew, depending on the […]
Lacson reminds Catriona: Australia implements more stringent anti-terrorism law
MANILA, June 10 (Mabuhay)– Senator Panfilo Lacson on Tuesday questioned Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray’s opposition to the controversial antiterror bill which he authored and is now transmitted to the Palace. “Ang Australia, very strong democracy kaya medyo ano ako, with all due respect kay Miss Universe Catriona Gray, ’di ba Australian siya? E kumokontra […]
PhilHealth execs told to quit
PhilHealth execs told to quit by THE MANILA TIMES Go: Duterte ‘really wants a revamp’President Rodrigo Duterte had asked officials of state-owned Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) to resign in the wake of a “ghost dialysis” scandal, his former aide and spokesman said on Monday. In a statement late Monday night, Salvador Panelo said the […]
Pinoys urged to ensure ‘truly independent PH’
MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday called on Filipinos to ensure that the dream of “a truly independent Philippines” is achieved within their lifetime. In his Independent Day message, Duterte acknowledged how 121 years have passed since the country’s ancestors ended colonization and proclaimed its independence. “A hundred and twenty-one years passed since our forefathers […]
PAL mulling San Vicente, Palawan route
MANILA, May 12, 2018 – Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) is considering having a San Vicente, Palawan route, spokesperson Cielo Villaluna said on Friday. San Vicente Airport (SVA) was inaugurated on Thursday, and was opened for commercial flights. Previously, the SVA only caters to light aircraft and Air Juan’s chartered flights. Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) […]
DOH, WHO conduct free HIV screening in the workplace
MANILA, May 11, 2018 – The Department of Health (DOH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) held a one-day free confidential and anonymous HIV screening in the workplace in several sites within the department compound on Friday. This activity is part of the observance of International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Day on May 18. About 400 […]
PDEA holds training on use of body cameras, drones
MANILA, May 10, 2018 – To boost its operations capability in line with the government’s anti-illegal drugs drive, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) agents underwent training and familiarization on the use of its newly-procured body cameras, digital forensic equipment, handheld radios and drones. The training, which runs from May 7 to 11, was attended by […]
PHL palay output up by 4.61%
MANILA, May 12, 2018 – Philippine palay production has continued to improve on the back of various agricultural government programs, the latest report from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has revealed. The PSA data released Friday showed the January-March production of palay nationwide rose by 4.61 percent to 4.62 million metric tons (MT) from the 4.42 million […]
Ex-Senate Pres. Edgardo Angara dies at 83
MANILA, May 13, 2018 – Former Senate President Edgardo Angara passed away on Sunday from an “apparent heart attack.” He was 83. This was confirmed by his son Senator Sonny Angara. “Sad to say my father former Sen Edgardo Javier Angara passed on from this life this morning at the age of 83, from an […]
More missiles eyed for PHL Navy
MANILA, May 13, 2018 – Aside from the newly-delivered Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Spike-ER missiles, Philippine Navy (PN) ships will be soon armed with torpedoes and with bigger and longer range surface-to-surface missiles. This was bared by PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Roberto Empedrad Saturday. He added that the acquisition of such advanced weapons is needed […]
Pinoy Sports-Artist to be Inducted into West Coast Hall of Fame
By: Ray Andres As fate would have it, destiny closed the door to sports artist Jun Aquino years back when he was being recognized as one of the most talented artists while working at the now defunct Free Press Magazine. The publication closed shop but it was not the end for the talented artist with new and […]
Duterte: PHL adheres to international law in sea row
MANILA (PNA) – President Rodrigo Duterte said the Philippines follows international law in the disputed West Philippine Sea, which is a portion of the South China Sea. This was aired by Pres. Duterte during Wednesday’s ASEAN-China meeting in the ongoing 28th and 29th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit being held in Laos. In […]
Obama tells ASEAN S. China Sea ruling eases tension, builds stability
VIENTIANE (PNA/Kyodo) – US President Barack Obama told his Southeast Asian counterparts on Thursday that last July’s arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s claims to most of the South China Sea has “helped ease tension” and “built stability” in the region. Obama spoke of the ruling, according to Thai government spokesman Werachon Sukhondhapatipak, at a summit […]
VP budget for 2017 slashed by 14.28%
By Azer N. Parrocha MANILA (PNA) — The PHP428.618 million proposed 2017 budget for the Office of the Vice President is 14.28 percent lower than its 2016 budget, Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo said Wednesday. Robredo presented the 2017 budget proposal for her office to the Senate Committee on Finance, saying that she is […]
St. Lorenzo Ruiz Parish to celebrate Silver Jubilee Sept 17
The month of September promises to be an exciting time for St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Parish Community, presenting two memorable nights of celebration, to commemorate their 25th Silver Jubilee as a parish. On September 17, they will present a musical play entitled Lorenzo Ruiz: the First Filipino Saint. This play will star Mat Ranillo III, a Filipino […]
Mama Sita commemorative stamps added to US Postal Museum collection
WASHINGTON, DC – The Mama Sita Foundation officially handed over a donation of Mama Sita commemorative stamps to the Smithsonian National Postal Museum during a simple turnover ceremony held at the museum lobby on 15 August 2016. The late Teresita “Mama Sita” Reyes was an iconic figure in Philippine culinary arts history, pioneering the use of mixes and seasonings that accompany […]
Calidad Humana celebrates the Filipino spirit in DC
WASHINGTON, DC – Delegates and participants of the 2016 International Young Leaders Assembly (IYLA) gathered at the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy for a special reception and photo exhibit of the book, Calidad Humana: Sharing the Filipino Spirit in the evening of 10 August 2016. Calidad Humana or human compassion, defined as a positive and wholesome attitude towards others […]
Campaign Promoting Benefits Of U.S. Citizenship Targets Asian Immigrants, Fastest Growing Immigrant Population
Eligible immigrants strongly urged to take the first step now to have a chance of becoming a U.S. citizen before November election Over 300,000 Asian immigrants in L.A. County currently eligible to naturalize and become a U.S. Citizen LOS ANGELES – Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Los Angeles (Advancing Justice-LA), in close partnership with community-based organizations and […]
CalCPA gives advice on battling tax identity theft
Many people are aware of the dangers of identity theft but may not realize how quickly it is growing or the numerous areas in which it can occur. Did you know, for example, that identity theft reports to the Federal Trade Commission jumped by nearly 50 percent in 2015, to almost half a million claims? […]
New ‘Chronicles of Narnia’ film in the pipeline
TriStar, the Mark Gordon Company and Entertainment One have signed on to finance the next adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ “Chronicles of Narnia” book series. The feature, titled “The Silver Chair”, will take place after the events of “The Voyage of the Dawn Treader”, when Prince Caspian has become King Caspian, with “Life of Pi”and “Finding Neverland” writer David […]
White House Initiative, UC Riverside Partner to Improve Asian American, Pacific Islander Data
Nationwide challenge encourages novel approaches to understand the fastest-growing population group By Bettye Miller RIVERSIDE, Calif., AUGUST 10, 2016 – Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are the fastest-growing and most diverse racial groups in the country. Between 2000 and 2010, their populations grew by 46 percent and 40 percent, respectively, compared to 10 percent for the […]
Tom Cruise-starring ‘Mena’ given new name and delayed release date
Universal has announced that Doug Liman-directed drug thriller “Mena” has been renamed “American Made” and given a new release date. The film stars Tom Cruise as real-life American pilot and hustler Barry Seal who ran drugs for cocaine kingpin Pablo Escobar and was recruited by the CIA to run one of the biggest covert operations in US […]
Bloomsbury announces tie-in books for Potter prequel movie ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’
The publishing house Bloomsbury Children’s Books will release several tie-in books on the release day of the movie “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” on November 18. “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”: the book and the movie Inspired by JK Rowling’s 2001 book of the same name, the movie (also known as […]
HBO announces ‘Game of Thrones’ live concert tours
Live Nation has partnered with HBO Global for a series of live “Game of Thrones” concerts in the US. The immersive “Game of Thrones” Live Concert Experience will feature live music and scenes from the Emmy- and Golden Globe Award-winning show, with the series’ composer Ramin Djawadi at the helm of a full orchestra, choir and […]
Music ID app Shazam gets TV quiz show
Shazam, the smartphone app that can identify full songs and tracks from short clips, is at the center of a new game show ordered by US network Fox. Just like the app itself, TV show “Beat Shazam” has contestants trying to identify the name and artist or group credited for an untitled track. The episode’s […]
Malacañang reminds Trump: You said PHL was a ‘special place’
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Saturday reminded US Republican party presidential candidate Donald Trump Sr. that he once said he loved the Philippines and how he described the country as a “special place.” “Considering his major real estate ‘brand’ investment in the Philippines’ financial capital called Trump Tower, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump unfortunately mentioned […]
Duterte: No letup until drug apparatus is destroyed
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo R. Duterte has reiterated his stand that the government will not stop until the apparatus of the drug syndicates has been destroyed and the market for illegal drugs is eliminated. “That is my sacred obligation to the people. I will be naming the mayors and one congressman maybe and the […]
Bongbong says father’s hero’s burial still in planning stage
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Saturday clarified that the burial of his father, late strongman Ferdinand Marcos Sr., at the Libingan ng mga Bayani is still in the planning stage. “Still in the planning stage…planning palang,” Marcos said in a text message. A Philippine Star report quoted Marcos as saying […]
US authorities discover 15th case of non-travel related Zika in Florida
MOSCOW, Aug. 9 (PNA/Sputnik) – The Florida Department of Health (DOH) found a new case of non-travel related Zika virus infection in an individual in Palm Beach County, Florida, Governor Rick Scott said on Monday. “Today, DOH has announced they are investigating one new individual with non-travel related Zika in Palm Beach County,” Scott stated. […]
China’s elevated bus completes first road test
The transit elevated bus, TEB-1, is 22 meters long, the width of two traffic lanes, and is designed to travel over cars that are less than half its height. Though the congestion-beating concept vehicle defies convention, a first road test took place on August 2, 2016 in Qinhuangdao, north China, according to state press agency Xinhua […]
Noel Gallagher to headline Pure & Crafted Festival 2016
The second Pure & Crafted Festival, August 12-13 in Berlin, will be headlined by Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, with Mando Diao and Tricky’s Skilled Mechanics project also prominent. Presented by BMW Motorrad, the 2016 Pure & Crafted festival makes for a last chance to see both Noel Gallagher and Mando Diao before the end […]
Pacquiao pushes revival of death penalty
By Jelly F. Musico MANILA, Aug. 8 (PNA) – Excited for his first privilege speech as neophyte senator, Manny Pacquiao made his presence felt in front of the heavyweights of the Philippine Senate to push his Senate Bill No. 185 which seeks the re-imposition of death penalty for heinous crimes and drug traffickers. ”My first […]
Countdown to the release of Amy Schumer’s memoir ‘The Girl With the Lower Back Tattoo’
Publishers Gallery Books (Simon & Schuster) announced the book’s August 16 launch date back in March, and now the wait is nearly over for Schumer’s large fan base. An award-wining comedian… Amy Schumer first came to the public eye in 2011-2012 when she came fourth on the reality TV competition “Last Comic Standing,” having been […]
Duterte commended for recognizing weaknesses of party-list system
By Jelly F. Musico MANILA (PNA) – Akbayan partylist Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday thanked President Rodrigo Duterte for recognizing the weaknesses of the party-list system. Neophyte senator, however, explained that the abolition as suggested by President Duterte is not the solution to the problem of the party-list system. ”Of course, I’m not in favor […]
Campaign Promoting Benefits Of U.S. Citizenship Targets Asian Immigrants, Fastest Growing Immigrant Population
Eligible immigrants strongly urged to take the first step now to have a chance of becoming a U.S. citizen before November election Over 300,000 Asian immigrants in L.A. County currently eligible to naturalize and become a U.SLOS ANGELES – Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Los Angeles (Advancing Justice-LA), in close partnership with community-based organizations and local government, announced […]
To win, Hillary should speak a little Tagalog
By Andrew Lam If all politics are local, then candidate Hillary Clinton may very well need to speak a little Korean and Tagalog in order to win the 2016 presidential election. Why? In 2014 Slate.com published a fascinating article with this headline, “Tagalog in California, Cherokee in Arkansas.” It is a survey of the languages spoken in each […]
3-minute preview: ‘Nine Lives’
Get your claws into the comedy tale of Tom Brand who is turned into a cat and has one week to make things right with his family in “Nine Lives.” – Who’s in it and what’s it about? – Kevin Spacey plays famous business magnate Tom Brand, who’s built his empire on hard work, long […]
Anne Hathaway tributes ‘The Princess Diaries’ on anniversary
Fifteen years ago on August 3, 2001, teen comedy film “The Princess Diaries” released to North American cinemas, and lead actress Anne Hathaway hasn’t forgotten its impact on her life or that of countless others. “It’s been 15 years (say it with me) SHUT UP!!!!!” Anne Hathawaywrote on Instagram, quoting one of the film’s best-known […]
Rooney’s Man Utd testimonial a Facebook first
The August 3 meeting between Manchester United and Everton, a testimonial for United forward and captain Wayne Rooney, will be broadcast live via Facebook. The occasion marks the first time that a match between two Premier League soccer teams has been livestreamed on the social media platform. Both facebook.com/manchesterunited andfacebook.com/waynerooney will carry the game, which kicks off at […]
Lady Gaga, Aretha Franklin, more booked for Tony Bennett tribute
A televised tribute to American singer Tony Bennett is set to take place on December 20. Celebrating Tony Bennett’s 90th birthday on August 3, 2016, NBC’s TV broadcast tribute is to take place December 20. Among the stars booked to appear alongside the 19-time Grammy award winner himself are Stevie Wonder, Elton John, k.d. Lang, […]
Duterte urged to pursue BBL aside from federalism
MANILA, Aug 3 (Mabuhay) – Former Ambassador Macabangkit Lanto on Wednesday urged the Duterte administration to pursue the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law apart from its efforts to push for federalism. Lanto said very few in Mindanao support federalism because “that is not the kind of autonomy that we want.” “We thought that [the] […]
14th Historic Filipinotown Festival, Saturday, August 06, 2016
Los Angeles- Let’s all come and celebrate. A TASTE OF BICOL at the 14th Historic Filipinotown Festival at the Silver Lake Medical Center (SLMC) on Saturday, August 6, 2016 from 9:00 AM to 6;00 PM. This year, the motif of the 14th Historic Filipinotown Festival will be A TASTE OF BICOL in honor of the Bicol Region, its food […]
Coco Martin hopes to do remake of ‘Utol’ with Montano
Actor Coco Martin wants to do a remake of the 1996 action movie “Utol,” which starred Cesar Montano and Victor Neri. The “Ang Probinsyano” star told reporters that he hopes to do a movie with his idol, Montano, who recently joined the cast of the hit primetime series. “Sabi ko (sa kanya), ‘Kuya Boy, sana […]
IOFIT pushes smart golf shoe to Kickstarter
Enhanced golf shoe IOFIT is offering a swing at greater power, longer drives, and more reliable putts with technology that analyzes balance and weight shift in real-time. When coupled with a companion app for Android or iOS, pressure sensors within the shoe’s outsole can deliver instant feedback on pressure distribution, weight shift, and foot balance […]
Luxury house Bulgari to showcase heritage collection as part of exclusive Australian exhibition
Luxury jewelry brand Bulgari is set to showcase some of its spectacular heritage collection, worn by the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Grace Kelly, and Sophia Loren, as part of an exclusive new exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia. The exhibit, titled “Italian Jewels: Bulgari Style,” will run from September 30 to January 29, […]
House leader seeks PHP15,000 across-the-board hike in teachers’ salary
MANILA (PNA) – A House leader is seeking a PHP15,000 across-the-board increase in the salaries of public school teachers and the provision of other benefits for them as incentives to attract highly qualified teachers into the public school system. Deputy Speaker Romero Quimbo said despite the teachers’ important responsibility of molding children to become productive […]
Jimmy Fallon to host Golden Globes
Jimmy Fallon, host of “The Tonight Show,” will kick off Hollywood’s annual awards season as presenter of the 2017 Golden Globes, organizers announced on Tuesday. Fallon is a veteran of the glittering event, having handed out awards in a variety of categories, most recently in 2014. He also hosted the 2010 Primetime Emmy Awards. The […]
Duterte commended for recognizing weaknesses of party-list system
By Jelly F. Musico MANILA, Aug. 2 (PNA) – Akbayan partylist Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday thanked President Rodrigo Duterte for recognizing the weaknesses of the party-list system. Neophyte senator, however, explained that the abolition as suggested by President Duterte is not the solution to the problem of the party-list system. ”Of course, I’m not […]
Veterans’ rights and welfare highlighted in Embassy Talakayan
WASHINGTON, DC – Filipino-American community members and veterans’ rights advocates gathered on 28 July 2016 at the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy for a Talakayan on the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program. In July 2015, the White House released the report “Modernizing and Streamlining Our Legal Immigration System for the 21st Century” that announced the parole […]
Summer on location: discover London through five movies
Travel the world from the comfort of your sofa this summer with six destinations to discover through the art of cinema. For this stop on our film-based voyage, we visit the British capital London, seen through five international must-see movies. Recent flick: London Has Fallen After saving Washington, the US President, played by Aaron Eckhart, and […]
PH industrialization possible under Paris Accord — senator
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippines does not have to turn its back on the Paris Agreement on Climate Change to pursue development, Sen. Loren Legarda said Monday. Legarda was responding to President Duterte’s earlier statement that he would not honor the pact, a treaty for which the previous administration vigorously campaigned, as it might inhibit […]
Duterte tells big businesses to stop contractualization
MANILA (PNA) – President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday warned large businesses to refrain from the practice of contractualization just to cut cost or they will face closure. PRRD said they will lose their permits to operate if caught abusing labor laws. He said the labor department will be sending people in the field to check […]
Ben Wheatley-helmed action thriller ‘Free Fire’ chosen to close the London Film Festival
Ben Wheatley’s period action thriller “Free Fire” has been selected as the closing night gala film for the 60th BFI London Film Festival, with the occasion also marking the movie’s European debut. Set in late 1970s Boston, the film boasts Martin Scorsese as its executive producer, with an all-star cast, including Oscar-winning actress Brie Larson, in addition […]
Dial 8888, 911: Gov’t opens complaints, emergency hotlines
MANILA, Aug 1 (Mabuhay) – Malacañang and the national police on Monday launched their respective hotlines for receiving public complaints and emergency calls. The President’s Hotline or 8888 is dedicated to complaints against fixers, scalawag officials and poor government services. Callers will be asked to identify the government employee and agency tagged in their complaint, […]
DACA remains valid as Asians urged to avail immigration relief
By Abner Galino Contrary to popular impression, President Barack Obama’s executive action in 2012 to shield from deportation undocumented persons who came to the US when they were children, otherwise known as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or DACA, remains in effect despite a recent unfavorable decision by the US Supreme Court on the […]
Hopes fade for ‘Beetlejuice’ sequel
The chances of seeing Tim Burton’s eccentric ghost return to the big screen keep getting slimmer as the years go by. According to Michael Keaton, who played the legendary Beetlejuice, the much-rumored follow-up could already be dead and buried. “It’s possible that ship has sailed,” came Michael Keaton’s metaphorical reply when asked about the long-awaited […]
J.K. Rowling confirms end of Harry Potter’s story
Renowned author J.K. Rowling has confirmed Harry Potter’s story will not continue, with the two-part play “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” marking the end of the road for the character. The play, which opened to rave reviews over the weekend, is set 19 years after the franchise’s final novel, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” […]
Mexican inmates use tattoo skills for purse designs
Sitting in a Mexican prison’s library, murder convict David Guzman tattooed a skull on a leather patch for a designer handbag to be sold in a luxury shop. Guzman, 34, took drugs and stole at a young age, falling into a “nefarious” world that landed him in prison, but five years into his murder […]
Duterte tells communists: You have 2 choices
MANILA (Mabuhay) — ‘Deal with the government in good faith or we fight for another generation.’ This was the stern warning of President Rodrigo Duterte to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) amid an ambush of government militiamen in Davao del Norte staged by the communist group. “So, I’d like to issue […]
OFW advocacy group lauds Duterte’s vow to fight human trafficking, illegal recruitment
By Ferdinand G. Patinio MANILA (PNA) – A group advocating the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) lauded the statement of President Rodrigo Duterte against human trafficking and illegal recruitment activities in the country. “The OFW sector is also happy he will be true to his campaign to create a separate department for our OFWs […]
Myrtle Sarrosa releases album
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Actress and cosplayer Myrtle Sarrosa still could not believe that her album is finally out. The album, titled “Now Playing Myrtle,” is under Ivory Music and Video and is now available in record bars nationwide. “Truly a dream come true to find so many people who believe in my songwriting skills. Still […]
Meryl Streep in talks to join cast of ‘Mary Poppins Returns’
Actress Meryl Streep is in talks to join Emily Blunt and Lin Manuel-Miranda for Disney’s upcoming “Mary Poppins Returns,” reports Variety. Streep is rumored to take the role of Topsy, a supporting role that was absent from the 1964 classic, while Blunt will take on the title character. Manuel-Miranda will play new character Jack, a street […]
5 rules for optimal nutrition by celebrity trainer David Kirsch
Celebrity trainer David Kirsch is well-known for his work with A-list models and actresses such as Heidi Klum, Kate Upton, Liv Tyler, and Anne Hathaway. In his latest book, “Ultimate Family Wellness,” David shares his own story of balancing fatherhood with fitness, and gives his expert advice on how to work out and eat well with the whole family. […]
FYLPRO holds info session in DC
WASHINGTON, DC – FYLPRO alums Melissa Medina and RJ Diokno led the information session on the 5th FYLPRO Immersion Program on 26 July 2016 at the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy. Every year since its establishment in 2012 by former Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr., the Filipino-American Youth Leadership Program (FYLPRO) brought […]
Goldberg: EDCA is not about South China Sea
MANILA (Mabuhay) – United States Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg on Thursday said the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) should not be seen in the light of the South China Sea issue. Goldberg said though five locations for U.S. military facilities in the Philippines have been identified in the EDCA, the security deal agreed […]
Duterte calls for peace anew with communists, Muslim rebels
By Leslie D. Venzon MANILA (PNA) – President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday called anew for peace, as he thanked soldiers and military for the service they have extended to the country. “Maraming namatay sa inyo, pero bagamat marami ring namatay sa mga komunista. But as President, I have to seek peace for our country. Not […]
Fil-Am nurse educator receives Master Teacher Award and selected as an item-writer for NCLEX
Donald Laurino, MSN,CCRN,CMSRN,PHN,RN-BC, a Filipino-American nurse educator, was recently selected as the honorable mention recipient of Elsevier Master Teacher Award 2016. His nomination reflects the commitment he has shown not only to bettering students’ lives, but also to improving the quality of health care provided to patients. His selection for honorable mention places him among […]
Larry Zabala, diplomat, journo, writes 30
Los Angeles – Laurencio “Larry” De Venecia Zabala, Jr., 85, passed away Thursday, 21 July 2016, at 1pm in the Intensive Care Unit of the Los Angeles Community Hospital. During the 1960s, Zabala reported and wrote for the Philippine nation’s leading newspaper, the Manila Daily Bulletin, and during the 1970s and 1980s served as press attaché […]
Venice Film Festival 2016 announces lineup
The films in contention at the 73rd edition of the Venice Film Festival were announced on Thursday in Rome, with a group of English-language features on the docket. Opening the festival is Damien Chazelle’s “La La Land,” starring Ryan Gosling and Emma stone in a nod to the Golden Age of American musicals. In Mel […]
New Beatles documentary will feature 1965 Shea Stadium footage
Ron Howard’s documentary “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years” will feature a half hour of footage from the band’s memorable Shea Stadium concert from 1965, reports Variety. The Shea Stadium concert was one of the first times a rock concert took place in a stadium setting. More than 55,000 people attended the […]
Specialist sees Pokémon Go as means of tackling type 2 diabetes
A specialist diabetes researcher sees Pokémon Go — the virtual character-hunting game with millions of players worldwide — as an excellent means of tackling rising levels of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Pokémon Go has now piqued the interest of the medical world. The smartphone-based character-hunting craze that’s sweeping the world has caught the attention […]
Pierce Brosnan joins Dave Bautista in ‘Final Score’
Pierce Brosnan is joining Scott Mann’s action-thriller “Final Score” reports Deadline. He will join “Guardians of the Galaxy” actor Dave Bautista on the project, along with Alexandra Dinu (“Red Valentine,” “Island”) and Julian Cheung (“The Grandmaster”). The story takes place at a major sporting event when the stadium is suddenly seized by a group of heavily […]
Hillary Clinton becomes first woman nominated for US president by a major party
PHILADELPHIA, the United States (PNA/Xinhua) – Hillary Clinton was formally anointed Democratic presidential candidate here on Tuesday, becoming the first woman to run for the White House on behalf of a major US political party. “Are we ready to make some history?” asked Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, secretary of the on-going Democratic National Convention (DNC) when a […]
Gov’t yet to decide on next move after South China Sea ruling: Dureza
MANILA, July 28 (Mabuhay) – The government has yet to reach a final decision on how it would deal with the territorial dispute on the West Philippine Sea following an arbitral court’s favorable decision on the Philippines’ case against China, a senior official said Thursday. At a forum organized by the Foreign Correspondents Association of […]
Kerry to PHL: Human rights must be protected
MANILA (Mabuhay) – United States Secretary of State John Kerry on Wednesday mentioned the need to protect human rights as the Philippines and its partners combat local and international crimes. “We have a much broader agenda than, my friends, just the question of the South China Sea,” Kerry said during a joint conference with Foreign […]
Gary V talks about changes on ‘ASAP’
Gary Valenciano, one of the senior members of ABS-CBN’s Sunday show “ASAP” waxed philosophical describing the show’s journey through the years, comparing “ASAP” to a beach and competing shows to waves. “With regards to the other show, what they have created was a huge wave and every body rode on that wave but it has […]
VP Robredo to grace National Empowerment Conference in DC
U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott to give opening keynote speech Washington, D.C. – Philippine Vice President Leni Robredo has accepted NaFFAA’s invitation to attend the 12th National Empowerment Conference, which will be held next month in Valley Forge, PA, a city 25 miles north of Philadelphia. She will be the featured speaker at the gala dinner on Saturday, […]
‘Meathead’ Goldwyn shares his foolproof recipe for Buffalo chicken wings
Meathead Goldwyn is known as “the barbecue whisperer.” His website, Amazingribs.com, is billed as the world’s most popular outdoor cooking website. His recently released cookbook “Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling,” has risen quickly to become the No. 1 bestselling cookbook in the category of Barbecue and Grilling on Amazon.com. For the crispiest Buffalo […]
Duterte: Pass federal system in four or six years and I will step aside
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday expressed his readiness to step down from power if a federal and parliamentary form of government is adopted via constitutional amendments in his fourth or fifth in office. In his first State of the Nation Address, Duterte, nonetheless, said that there must be a president who should […]
DOL, OSHA, PHL Embassy forge ties to help protect Georgia workers
The Embassy of the Philippines and U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration have renewed its partnership to promote worker’s rights at a signing ceremony in the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Building in Atlanta. Sung Kim Chu, assistant district director, Wage and Hour Division, Atlanta, Américo Pagán, assistant regional administrator cooperative […]
Palace sees speedy approval of priority bills under Pimentel, Alvarez
MANILA, July 25 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Monday welcomed the election of President Rodrigo Duterte’s allies as the new leaders of Congress, saying it would pave the way for the speedy approval of the chief executive’s priority bills. In a statement, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said Malacañang extends its congratulations to Senator Aquilino Pimentel III […]
Pacquiao: I can do ‘great things’ for the people
MANILA, July 25 (Mabuhay) — Despite criticisms, newly-elected Senator Manny Pacquiao expressed confidence on Monday that he could do “great things” as a public servant and that he could exceed the people’s expectations. “During my inauguration, I have sealed my commitment to do what I have to do to the best of my ability by […]
Duterte bids for bank secrecy law relaxation
By Joann Santiago MANILA, July 25 (PNA) – President Rodrigo R. Duterte, in his first State-of-the-Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, announced that a relaxation of the country’s bank secrecy law is forthcoming. This is part of the current administration’s macroeconomic policies, eyed to encourage more investments, both from local and foreign businessmen, and improve the […]
Americans’ satisfaction with country’s direction drops sharply: poll
WASHINGTON, July 25 (PNA/Xinhua) – Americans’ satisfaction with the state of affairs dropped 12 percentage points in the past month, amid high-profile police killings of black men and mass shootings of police, found a latest Gallup poll. Currently, only 17 percent of Americans are satisfied with the state of affairs in the US, sharply down […]
Trump threatens to leave WTO over proposal on punishing US firms for moving overseas
WASHINGTON, July 25 (PNA/Xinhua) – US Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump on Sunday threatened to pull the US out of the World Trade Organization (WTO) if his proposal on penalizing US companies for moving overseas is blocked. Trump said in an interview with the NBC “Meet the Press” that he, if elected president, would impose […]
PHL Museum of Natural History design celebrates nature, Science & Arts
WASHINGTON, DC – Art and science enthusiasts and members of the Filipino community gathered at the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy on Friday, 15 July 2016, for a presentation by Architect Dominic Galicia on the creation of the new National Museum of Natural History in Manila’s Rizal Park. The Museum of Natural History will be housed in the […]
Renowned Filipino Designer Rocky Gathercole vsits ABS-CBN Foundation’s Bantay Bata
AFI head praises designer for “Rock The Runway” fundraiser on July 28 in Avalon Hollywood HOLLYWOOD, CA – A heartwarming lovefest ensued upon the recent visit of Rocky Gathercole, famed Filipino designer to the biggest music stars, to the ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya (Family Service) Foundation, Inc. or ALKFI. The designer to celebrities like Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Katy Perry, Gwen Stefani, Jennifer […]
Duterte has prerogative not to honor climate change pact: Drilon
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo Duterte has the power not to honor the international agreement on reducing carbon emissions that the previous administration had ratified, outgoing Senate President Franklin Drilon said Tuesday. Drilon, a Liberal Party stalwart, said Duterte is well within his right not to honor the Paris Agreement on climate change because he […]
NBA teams with Twitter for streaming, but no games
Twitter and the National Basketball Association announced a deal Tuesday to stream live content, but not games, to users of the social media platform. The deal will deliver a weekly NBA pregame show with “first-of-its-kind elements created specifically for integration with Twitter conversation,” according to a joint statement. “The weekly pregame show will be featured […]
‘Pretty Woman’ director Garry Marshall dies at 81
Hollywood director, producer and comedy giant Garry Marshall died on Tuesday at the age of 81, leaving a legacy that includes “Happy Days,” “Pretty Woman” and countless other iconic hits. The mogul died of pneumonia after suffering a stroke in hospital in the Los Angeles suburb of Burbank, according to his publicist. Directors Guild of […]
Macy’s collaborates with IBM to introduce artificial intelligence to US stores
US department store Macy’s has tapped artificial intelligence to help shoppers navigate stores. Starting Wednesday, July 20, 2016, the retailer will introduce its new shopping assistant in the form of a pilot program called “Macy’s On Call” — a website that can be accessed on a mobile browser and provides shoppers with answers to basic […]
Obama calls for unity after 3 police officers killed in Baton Rouge shooting
HOUSTON, July 18 (PNA/Xinhua) – US President Barack Obama on Sunday urged Americans to avoid making inflammatory rhetoric after the killing of three police officers in the state of Louisiana. In a speech delivered from the White House on the shooting in Baton Rouge, Obama said that, though divisions exist in the country, everyone should […]
Duterte to raise grievances to China over illegal drugs
MANILA, July 18 (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday night said he will raise his grievances to China, in due time, over the involvement of Chinese nationals in the illegal drug trade in the country. “When I come face to face with them, makinig kayo, sabihin ko talaga ang sama ng loob ko lahat […]
‘Aliens’ 30th anniversary celebration in store for San Diego Comic Con
With James Cameron’s movie set to celebrate its 30th birthday in a few days, San Diego Comic Con is the ideal opportunity to reunite the film’s director and cast at a reunion panel, July 23. “Aliens” – the second movie in the “Alien” franchise following Ridley Scott’s 1979 film – turns 30 July 18. Twentieth Century […]
Fil-Am stars in world premiere of ‘As Straw Before The Wind’
Hollywood, CA – As Straw Productions presents the World Premiere of As Straw Before The Wind, a new play that offers a window into the life experience of a Filipina nurse who survives the trauma of World War II, only to discover that her war is not yet over. Written by Felix Racelis, under the direction of Lesley Asistio, the […]
SC justice asks fishermen to be prudent despite ruling on South China Sea
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Supreme Court Associate Justice Francis Jardeleza on Wednesday called on Filipino fishermen to observe prudence in the disputed areas of the South China Sea even after the Permanent Court of Arbitration favored the Philippines in its 15-point case against China’s excessive claims in the area. In a media conference in Manila, Jardeleza […]
Foods to eat for heart health by celebrity yoga teacher Mandy Ingber
In her latest book, “Yogalosophy for Inner Strength“, Mandy Ingber, yoga teacher to Jennifer Aniston, looks at how the practice of yoga, along with meditation, self-care, nutrition, and even music, can help everyone maintain optimum wellness and find resilience even during the most stressful and trying times. Here Mandy shares her top tips on how to nourish […]
‘Game of Thrones’ leads Emmys field with 23 nominations
Fantasy drama “Game of Thrones” led the field for television’s coveted Primetime Emmy awards Thursday for a third straight year, with nominations in 23 categories. HBO’s fantasy epic about noble families vying for control of the Iron Throne will compete for the prestigious outstanding drama series trophy for the fifth year in a row, the […]
Warner Bros unveils new details of fresh ‘Wonder Woman’ feature film
Warner Bros has unleashed further details on the upcoming “Wonder Woman” feature film, and released the names of the duo who have penned its screenplay. As Collider reports, originally, there were five writers brought in to elaborate Wonder Woman‘s story for film, with Jason Fuchs initially selected, however — a press release issued directly from Warner Bros has […]
Palace on next step after arbitration ruling: ‘Top priority will be national interest’
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The government’s next step in dealing with the territorial dispute in the South China Sea after the arbitration court issues its ruling will be based on the premise that national interest is the administration’s priority, a Malacañang spokesman said Tuesday. At a media briefing, presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said “everything will be […]
DFA hopes for tribunal’s favorable decision on South China Sea dispute
MANILA (Mabuhay) The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) expressed hopes that the decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration regarding territorial claims over the contested waters of the South China Sea (parts of which the Philippines calls West Philippine Sea) would be favorable to the country. “Umaasa tayo na magiging paborable sa Pilipinas ang magiging […]
Obama pledges US long-term commitment to Europe security
WARSAW (PNA/Xinhua) – US President Barack Obama on Saturday pledged the US long-term commitment to ensuring Europe’ s security and defending allies, while participating his last North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit before his stepping down next January. During his solo press conference after the closing of Warsaw NATO Summit, Obama said the Alliance was […]
Leni got Cabinet post on same day Jesse was appointed 6 years ago
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Vice President Leni Robredo has noticed a “creepy” coincidence: She and her late husband Jesse Robredo got appointed to a Cabinet post exactly on the same day—July 7. Robredo on Saturday pointed this out on Facebook, sharing her post from July 9 last year when she remembered the day Jesse broke the […]
Oldest Fil-Am women’s club marks 55 years of community service
Los Angeles – The Los Angeles Philippine Women’s Club (LA PWC), the oldest Filipino American women’s organization in Southern California, marked its 55th year of community service by installing its new officers and new members. The happy occasion was held at the Manila Terrace Social hall at 2328 W. Temple St. at Historic Filipinotown, DTLA […]
Taylor Swift world’s highest paid celebrity: Forbes
At the tender age of 26, Taylor Swift is the world’s highest-paid celebrity, pulling in a whopping $170 million over the past year, Forbes magazine said Monday. The pop diva’s take from June 2015 to June 2016 is the highest total of her young career, the magazine said, more than doubling her previous record of […]
Tommy, Miho to topbill first film
A new film starring celebrity couple Tommy Esguerra and Miho Nishida, whose love story began inside the “Pinoy Big Brother” house, is in the works. Esgurra and Nishida will topbill the Regal Entertainment-produced movie titled “Never Been Touched, Never Been Kissed,” alongside Kapamilya actor Jake Cuenca and singer Angeline Quinto. Other details about the film […]
‘Meathead’ Goldwyn shares his recipe for The Great American Steakhouse Steakburger
Meathead Goldwyn is known as “the barbecue whisperer.” His website, Amazingribs.com, is billed as the world’s most popular outdoor cooking website. His recently released cookbook “Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling,” has risen quickly to become the No. 1 bestselling cookbook in the category of Barbecue and Grilling on Amazon.com. For foolproof burgers this […]
SSS to conduct on-site services in Los Angeles
Los Angeles – The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles is pleased to inform you that Philippine Social Security System will conduct On-Site Services to be held at the Community Hall from 25 to 28 July 2016 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The following programs will be offered by SSS during the event: Registration (new): Issuance […]
California Home Visiting Program marks 100,000th visit
SACRAMENTO – The California Home Visiting Program (CHVP) celebrated a landmark 100,000th visit this week as part of the state’s hands-on efforts to provide assistance to new parents and improve the health and wellbeing of children across the state. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) preventive intervention program focuses on positive parenting and child development. “Home visiting is an effective […]
Duterte shuns VIP treatment at NAIA as he returns to Davao City
By Jelly F. Musico MANILA (PNA) – Living up to his promise to shun special treatment, President Rodrigo R. Duterte returned to his home in Davao City on board a commercial flight of the Philippine Airlines (PAL) on Thursday night. Based on a photo posted by the Presidential Communications Office, Duterte sat on the window […]
Re-enter the dragon: Hong Kong’s movie new wave
Shoot the film you’ve always wanted on a shoestring budget or sell out and make a blockbuster? It is a dilemma Hong Kong directors frequently face as mainland China’s lucrative movie industry beckons. Now, with concerns growing about Beijing’s increasing influence on Hong Kong, some film-makers are defying commercial and political pressures to produce homegrown […]
Get Ghostbusting with Snapchat
To promote the upcoming release of a totally rebooted take on the film “Ghostbusters” Sony is partnering with Snapchat and adding ‘busting’ and sliming features to the popular app Through sponsored lenses that for the first time allow Snapchatters to use front and rear cameras to the same effect, you can picture yourself busting a […]
DOT Chief vows to continue annual staging of Madrid Fusion Manila
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Vitaliano N. Aguirre II is meticulously studying the possible action of the DOJ in connection with the five police general allegedly involved in the multibillion-peso illegal drugs operations in the country. Aguirre said that one of the things he is looking at is the possibility of placing […]
James Franco to be honoured at Outfest Awards
Outfest have announed that James Franco and Sundance Film Festival Director John Cooper are to receive this year’s honorary awards reports Variety. Franco is to recieve the first ever James Schamus Ally Award, created to recognize an individual’s efforts in bringing LGBTQ stories to the forefront, which will be presented to him by director Gus Van Sant on July 16. Cooper, […]
The YouCam Makeup app now comes with extra Kardashian
One of the world’s most popular augmented reality apps for virtually testing new makeup looks now supports Kardashian Beauty products. Starting with the new “Fierce” collection, users can snap a selfie and then test each element in the line from lip glosses to eye shadows, or even go one further and apply a full custom […]
Duterte on kill threat: God will decide
MANILA (Mabuhay) – With drug lords offering “billions” for his head, President Rodrigo Duterte said he was leaving his fate to God. Duterte unveiled on national television late Thursday an elaborate matrix of illegal drug operations in the country that allegedly included police generals and crime lords serving time in prison. “I’m confident that God […]
FACC-SLAA holds workshop on social media marketing on July 11
Carson, CA – The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce South Bay will hold its second entrepreneurial workshop on Monday, July 11 at the Double Tree by Hilton Carson Hotel at 2 Civic Plaza Drive at 6:30 pm. The hotel is right across Carson Community Center. The business workshop will be conducted by Sweeney Mae, a […]
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents ‘Out Of This World’
A cosmic family adventure light years beyond your expectations First-Ever West Coast National Tour Debut Blasts Off July 14th – August 7th Throughout Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) – Prepare to blast off on an intergalactic adventure for space-age family fun as the ultimate circus experience launches into the future with Ringling Bros. and Barnum […]
Farfetch partners with Apple on new music channel
Luxury fashion retailer Farfetch.com is teaming up with Apple on a new music channel reports WWD. Set to launch Tuesday, the new channel will see Farfetch feature two playlists of Apple music on its website and mobile devices. The playlist “Songs From the Shoot” will be created by the Farfetch team and as the name implies, will […]
Sundance Institute announces Riley Keough, Jena Malone movie ‘Lovesong’ as NEXT FEST opener
The Sundance Institute has announced that the Riley Keough and Jena Malone movie “Lovesong” will kick off the Sundance NEXT FEST next month in LA. The news of the opener and lineup for the festival, which will take place August 12-14, was announced by the Sundance Institute on Thursday. Directed by So Yong Kim, “Lovesong” […]
No cash distribution of coco levy funds
By Nimfa U. Rueda IRVINE, CALIF. – There will be no cash distribution of the coconut levy funds to farmers, Agriculture Secretary Manny Pinol clarified in a meeting with Filipino-American businessmen here Wednesday night (Thursday in Manila). Pinol said the release of the multi-billion funds – a campaign promise to coconut farmers – will come in other […]
Why Duterte will issue EO to implement FOI
MANILA (Mabuhay) – A Malacañang official on Monday reiterated the position of President Rodrigo Duterte to push freedom of information (FOI) under his administration. Presidential spokesperson Ernesto “Ernie” Abella in his first briefing said that Duterte gives importance to FOI, considering that it is being pushed as his first executive order. “In his words, he […]
Duterte: Eid celebration ‘timely and relevant’
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo Duterte greeted Filipino Muslims celebrating Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end the holy feast of Ramadan. Duterte, the Philippines’ first president from Mindanao, said this year’s celebration could not be more timely and relevant as the country marks a new chapter in its history. “This year’s celebration is indeed timely […]