DOJ completes IRR of anti-terror law
MANILA, Oct 15 (Mabuhay)– Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday said the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (ATA) has been approved on schedule by the Anti Terrorism Council (ATC). “The ATC has approved today (Wednesday) the IRR of the ATL crafted by the technical working […]
3 potential COVID-19 vaccines to have clinical trials in Philippines — Palace
MANILA, Oct 15 (Mabuhay) — At least three potential vaccines against COVID-19 are set to have clinical trials in the Philippines, according to presidential spokesperson Harry Roque on Thursday. “Meron po tayong tatlo na magkakaroon tayo ng clinical trials,” Roque said. “Kasama na po dyan ang Russia at tsaka ‘yung sa China, at kung hindi […]
DPWH’s Villar: Foreign workers employed in infra projects due to required technical skills
MANILA, Oct 14 (Mabuhay) — Public Works Secretary Mark Villar on Wednesday said foreign nationals are being employed in the country’s infrastructure projects because of the required technical skills they possess. During a Senate hearing on the proposed P666.47-billion budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for 2021, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan […]
Isko warns of Covid-19 ‘2nd wave’ as figures in US, Europe rise
MANILA, Oct 14 (Mabuhay) — Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso on Tuesday warned the public of the possibility of a ‘second wave’ of the coronavirus, citing the rising number of infections in Europe and the United States. “I hope we don’t experience what is happening in Europe as what is being reported by international […]
AFP chief Gapay says situation in South China Sea remains volatile, uncertain
MANILA, Oct 13 (Mabuhay) — Armed Forces chief General Gilbert Gapay on Tuesday described the situation in the South China Sea as “volatile and uncertain.” During an online forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP), Gapay explained that the situation in the region has been uncertain because of the continuous aggressive actions […]
Erich Gonzales topbills new ABS-CBN series ‘La Vida Lena’
MANILA, Oct 13 (Mabuhay) — Actress Erich Gonzales is set to topbill a new ABS-CBN series entitled “La Vida Lena.” The Kapamilya actress shared the good news to her fans and followers as she posted a poster of the new show under Dreamscape Entertainment. She also tagged ABS-CBN directors Jojo Saguin and Jerry Sineneng. In […]
DepEd prepares for limited face-to-face classes
MANILA, Oct 13 (Mabuhay) — An Education official said Monday the Department of Education (DepEd) is preparing for the limited face-to-face classes in areas with no reported coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections. “At the moment, there are no face-to-face classes but the DepEd is really preparing for it,” DepEd Undersecretary Tonisito Umali said in a […]
Bela Padilla introduces new flame
MANILA, Oct 12 (Mabuhay) — Bela Padilla has confirmed being in a new romance as she posted a photo of a man whom she was with during a recent stay in Turkey. “The one I met in St. Gallen,” was Padilla’s short caption for the photos showing her sharing a sweet moment with the man. […]
2.4M Filipino children susceptible to measles — DOH
MANILA, Oct 12 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) said that 2.4 million Filipino children are vulnerable to contracting measles, thus the department is targeting to vaccinate them. “Kapag tiningnan po natin iyong ating datos, ang nakalagay po sa amin 2.4 million na mga bata na nagkukulang o vulnerable sila ngayon para magkaroon ng […]
WHO hopes Philippines can tap up to 4k volunteers for Solidarity Trial
MANILA, Oct 12 (Mabuhay) — The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday expressed hope that the Philippines will increase the number of participants for the WHO-sanctioned COVID-19 vaccine trial scheduled to begin later this month. At the Laging Handa briefing, WHO Representative to the Philippines Rabindra Abeyasinghe said the Philippines is currently looking at around […]
US extends $213M grant to assist Philippines in poverty reduction, good governance
MANILA, Oct 12 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines has scored a $213-million grant (equivalent to P10.8 billion) from the United States to finance poverty reduction and good governance programs, the Department of Finance (DOF) announced Monday. According to the DOF, the grant for the Economic Growth and Democratic Governance with Equity (EGDGE) Program will be implemented […]
Filipino workers in Canada receive recovery aid
MANILA, Oct 12 (Mabuhay) — The Canadian government has extended its coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) recovery assistance to Filipinos who are temporarily working in the North American country, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Sunday. In a report to Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Vancouver said […]
Ivana Alawi reacts to ‘pantasya ng bayan’ tag
MANILA, Oct 10 (Mabuhay) — Ivana Alawi doesn’t understand why she has been tagged as every man’s fantasy woman. In an online interview, Alawi insists she is not trying to be anything but her usual self. “Honestly hindi ko siya maintindihan kung bakit kasi hindi naman kami masyado natutuwa sa sarili ko. I am being […]
13th month pay deferment subject to employer-employee dialogue — Bello
MANILA, Oct 10 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Labor and Employment on Saturday said the deferment of giving 13th-month pay can be agreed upon by the employers and their employees through a dialogue. “Depende yan sa pag-uusap ng management at labor group. Kung papayag ang mga empleyado… depende ‘yan sa usapan nila,” Labor Secretary Silvestre […]
DOST gears up for Covid-19 vaccine clinical trials
MANILA, Oct 10 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), as the lead agency of the Inter-Agency Task Force’s sub-technical working group on vaccine development, is currently preparing for World Health Organization (WHO) Solidarity Trial for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine. In a taped DOST report aired Friday afternoon, DOST Secretary Fortunato […]
‘Vaccine hesitancy’ has dropped in Philippines, says Duque
MANILA, Oct 10 (Mabuhay) — The apprehensions of Filipino parents to have their children vaccinated have already died down, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said Friday. “Kung pagbabatayan natin ang immunization coverage ng polio last year, mukhang ‘yung vaccine hesitancy bumagsak na,” Duque told senators as he defended the proposed P203.74 billion budget of the […]
Philippines now qualified for a more relaxed e-visa to Russia
MANILA, Oct 9 (Mabuhay) — Starting 2021, Filipinos will be able to apply for an e-visa to travel to any part of Russia, its embassy in Manila said. Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, the embassy said on its Facebook page, has signed a directive approving a revised and more relaxed pilot visa procedure for the […]
Palace hails Duque for being elected WHO committee chair
MANILA, Oct 9 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Thursday congratulated Health Secretary Francisco Duque III for being elected as chair of World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Western Pacific. In a Palace briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duque’s accomplishment showed that the WHO recognizes his capabilities. “Our congratulations to Secretary Duque and my classmate […]
I don’t feel 51, says Alice Dixson
MANILA, Oct 9 (Mabuhay) — The adage, “Age is just a number,” rings true for Alice Dixson, who wowed her followers over the weekend with bare-faced selfies at the beach. “I don’t feel 51,” Dixson wrote on Instagram, sharing photos of her tanning session. “On my closeup, you can see my freckles and sun spots […]
Stronger ties between PH, Brunei navies seen
MANILA, Oct 7 (Mabuhay) — The relationship between the Philippine Navy (PN) and the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) remains strong despite the cancellation of naval exercises due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, an official said. “We would like to assure you that in spite of us not seeing each other face-to-face or physically, […]
Maja Salvador to star in Mikhail Red’s upcoming film
MANILA, Oct 7 (Mabuhay) — Actress Maja Salvador is set to star in the upcoming movie “Arisaka,” the latest film of young director Mikhail Red. This was confirmed by Salvador in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 30. In the caption, Salvador simply wrote “Arisaka.” Using the same photos shared by Salvador, Red also shared […]
Newly-hired healthcare workers can leave PH — POEA
MANILA, Oct 7 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) on Tuesday said newly-hired Filipino healthcare workers (HCWs) with perfected and signed contracts as of August 31 are allowed to leave the country. In Advisory No. 47-B, series of 2020, it said all HCWs whose contracts were crafted and signed as of this new […]
Philippines asks UK to continue protecting Filipino health workers amid COVID-19
MANILA, Oct 6 (Mabuhay) — Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin has called on the United Kingdom to continue protecting Filipino health care professionals and uphold their well-being months after several of them were reported to have died from coronavirus. In last week’s virtual meeting between Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers and […]
Nograles: Philippines not yet ready to accept more foreigners amid COVID-19 pandemic
MANILA, Oct 6 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines is not inclined to accept more foreigners for now amid calls to lift travel restrictions for unmarried foreign partners of Filipinos. Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said the government is taking “calibrated” steps towards fully reopening the country’s borders for international travel. “Right now hindi pa tayo handa. Hindi […]
Why Andi Eigenmann left limelight for island life
MANILA, Oct 6 (Mabuhay)– – Andi Eigenmann opened up about her island life and why she decided to stay away from the limelight. Eigenmann said it’s not actually the “fault of showbiz but it’s the timing of it all for me.” “Parang I started at a time I was so young and I didn’t really […]
Duterte says he never killed anyone, ‘magtanong ka sa pulis’
MANILA, Oct 6 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday claimed that he never killed anyone after saying on several occasions during his administration that he had personally taken lives. Duterte made the statement in a televised address from Malacañang after assuring embattled Health Secretary Francisco Duque III that he would “see to it that […]
Liza Soberano, Enrique Gil to work on new project in early 2021
MANILA, Oct 5 (Mabuhay) — Actress Liza Soberano reiterated that she will remain a Kapamilya, confirming there have been offers to leave ABS-CBN but she chose to stay with her mother network. “That is true I have received offers and I’m grateful for them but I told my manager Tito Ogie (Diaz) that for now […]
18,065 new Covid-19 recoveries bring total to over 273K
MANILA, Oct 5 (Mabuhay) — A total of 18,065 new recoveries from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) were reported Sunday, pushing the total number of recoveries nationwide to 273,079. In its latest case bulletin, the Department of Health (DOH) also reported 3,190 new Covid-19 infections, bringing the total number of active cases to 43,642. Of […]
DFA advises Filipinos to postpone trip to Iraq
MANILA, Oct 3 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday asked all Filipinos traveling to Iraq to cancel their trip amid the recent rocket assaults targeting the Baghdad International Airport and the country’s heavily-fortified Green Zone. “The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) advises travelers to Iraq, particularly personnel of international organizations (IOs) […]
49K Pinoy seafarers deployed in September
MANILA, Oct 3 (Mabuhay) — Some 49,000 Filipino seafarers were deployed in September as the seafaring industry gradually reopens amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) said Friday. “Last month, a number of seafarers not below 49,000 were able to board their ships. This is the normal number of seamen […]
Bato wants probe of Facebook takedown of accounts linked to cops, soldiers
MANILA, Oct 2 (Mabuhay) — Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa has filed a resolution urging the Senate to investigate the removal of some pro-government and anti-communist pages on Facebook, saying the move may be violating Filipinos’ right to free speech. The social media giant earlier said it removed 2 networks on its platform for “coordinated inauthentic […]
US military pilots must not use PH aircraft codes — Esperon
MANILA, Oct 2 (Mabuhay) — American military pilots should be cautioned against using hex codes belonging to Philippine aircraft while conducting their surveillance missions, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said Thursday. Esperon’s remarks came following reports that a US surveillance aircraft disguised itself as a Philippine plane using hex codes assigned to the country […]
PRRD ‘most hopeful’ about potential China-made vaccine
MANILA, Oct 2 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo R. Duterte is “most hopeful” about the potential coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine being developed by China, Malacañang said Thursday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte prefers a China-made vaccine even as several countries are on a race to be the first to come up with a vaccine […]
PH Covid-19 recoveries climb to 254,223; active cases now 54,294
MANILA, Oct 2 (Mabuhay) — Some 771 new recoveries from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) were reported Thursday, pushing the total number of recoveries nationwide to 254,223. In its latest case bulletin, the Department of Health (DOH) also noted 2,415 new Covid-19 infections, bringing the total number of active cases to 54,294. Of the active […]
2,006 new COVID-19 infections push tally close to 379,000
MANILA, Oct 31 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday reported 2,006 new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections, bringing the total tally to 378,933, as 13 laboratories failed to submit their reports on time. According to the DOH, the areas with the highest number of new infections were Batangas with 124, Cavite with […]
87.2% Covid-19 cases have recovered — DOH
MANILA, Oct 30 (Mabuhay) — The government’s COVID-19 task force stood by its decision to place Metro Manila and six other areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) next month, Malacañang said Friday. Aside from Metro Manila, the cities of Bacolod, Iloilo, Tacloban and Iligan, as well as the provinces of Batangas and Lanao del Sur […]
PH Covid-19 recoveries now 253K, active cases rise to 52,702
MANILA, Oct 1 (Mabuhay) — The country’s total number of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) recoveries rose to 253,488 after the Department of Health (DOH) reported 585 new recoveries. In its latest case bulletin, the DOH also noted that 2,426 new infections were reported on Wednesday, pushing the number of active cases to 52,702. Of the […]
MGCQ status for Metro Manila in November not impossible — Palace
MANILA, Oct 1 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang is not ruling out the possibility that Metro Manila may shift to a modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) in November. “It is not an impossibility dahil talaga naman po napababa natin [ang COVID-19 cases] pero nasa kababayan pa rin natin ‘yan sa Metro Manila. Alam na po natin ang […]
Duterte seeks dialogue, not shutdown of Facebook –Palace
MANILA, Sept 30 (Mabuhay)– Malacañang on Tuesday said President Rodrigo Duterte was not threatening to stop the operation of Facebook in the country when he scored the social media giant for taking down accounts and pages advocating “something” that is good for the people. In a press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte is […]
Appointment of new apostolic nuncio ‘good news’ for Filipino faithful amid COVID-19 crisis — CBCP
MANILA, Sept 30 (Mabuhay) — The appointment of Archbishop Charles John Brown as the new apostolic nuncio to the Philippines is “very good news” to the faithful amid the crisis brought by the COVID-19 pandemic in the country, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said on Tuesday. “It is a very good news […]
Duterte wants Facebook not to ban pages advocating gov’t interests — Palace
MANILA, Sept 29 (Mabuhay)– President Rodrigo Duterte’s statement against Facebook on Monday was an appeal to the social media giant not to ban accounts that promote the interests of the government, Malacañang said Tuesday. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said there is currently no scheduled discussion between government and Facebook over the President’s concerns. “Ang sinasabi […]
Boracay reopening allows work resumption for tourism sector
MANILA, Sept 29 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Monday clarified that the reopening of Boracay Island did not mean that the country is already safe from the threat of coronavirus disease (Covid-19). In a virtual Palace briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the reopening of the famous beach island would support tourism industry workers and businesses […]
Covid-19 cases drop due to ‘One Hospital, Oplan Kalinga’
MANILA, Sept 29 (Mabuhay) — The downward trend in the weekly average number of reported new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections may be due to the recalibrated strategies implemented by the government, a health official said Monday. In a virtual media forum, Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire noted that the number of […]
Duterte to propose abolishing PhilHealth to Congress
MANILA, Sept 29 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night said he will propose the abolishment of the embattled Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to Congress amid allegations of widespread corruption hounding the state health insurer. “Itong PhilHealth, I am going to propose to Congress to abolish the— Kung i-privatize mo naman, susmaryosep, walang […]
Philippines can rally ‘overwhelming majority’ vs China before UN — Carpio
MANILA, Sept 28 (Mabuhay) — Manila can rally an “overwhelming majority” of allies against Beijing if it raises before the United Nations an arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s claims over the West Philippine Sea, retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio said Monday. President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration has refused to do so over fears that […]
12 provincial bus routes to open in Central Luzon, Calabarzon
MANILA, Sept 28 (Mabuhay) — A total of 12 modified provincial bus routes would be opened in Central Luzon and Calabarzon starting September 30, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced Saturday. Under Memorandum Circular 2020-051, the buses may resume operations provided that they have a valid and existing certificate of public convenience […]
Easing NCR GCQ may lead to COVID-19 surge around Christmas, experts say
MANILA, Sept 26 (Mabuhay) — The country’s number of COVID-19 cases reported daily are on a downward trend but experts from the OCTA research team warned the national government against prematurely downgrading community quarantines particularly in Metro Manila. In its latest report, the OCTA team said that the premature downgrade of the quarantine status in […]
P1-B scholarship fund for children of displaced, deceased OFWs OK’d –Bello
MANILA, Sept 26 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Labor and Employment and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) have partnered to provide a one-time college education subsidy for the children of displaced or deceased overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). In a statement on Saturday, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said the DOLE signed a memorandum of […]
DILG chief to meet with Metro mayors on fate of GCQ
MANILA, Sept 26 (Mabuhay)– Interior Secretary Eduardo Año on Friday said he will meet with Metro Manila mayors on Sunday to discuss the fate of the general community quarantine (GCQ) status in the region amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. “Doon namin tatalakayin ‘yan, papakinggan natin kung ano ‘yung recommendation ng buong Metro Manila […]
Why Liza Soberano filed a complaint over rape remark
MANILA, Sept 26 (Mabuhay) — Actress Liza Soberano on Friday said that she wanted to take a stand for the silent victims of rape, rape jokes and misogyny when she filed a criminal case against a netizen who made a rape remark about her a few days ago. Accompanied by her manager Ogie Diaz and […]
Julia Montes goes back to school
MANILA, Sept 25 (Mabuhay) — Julia Montes is embarking on a new journey —from the comforts of her own home. The actress announced her decision to go back to school on her Instagram, signing up for online classes. “This is how I turn a crisis into an opportunity, doing things I’ve always wanted now that […]
Senators nix ‘unconstitutional’ proposal to postpone 2022 polls
MANILA, Sept 25 (Mabuhay) — Several senators on Friday rejected the proposal to postpone the 2022 elections despite the COVID-19 situation in the Philippines, saying the Constitution must be upheld. This was after House Deputy Majority Leader Mikey Arroyo inquired on the possibility of deferring the upcoming polls during the deliberations on the 2021 budget […]
FDA yet to receive any application for phase 3 trial of COVID-19 vaccine
MANILA, Sept 25 (Mabuhay) — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet received any applications from COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers to hold phase 3 trials in the Philippines, FDA Director General Eric Domingo said Thursday. Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine and the one being developed by Johnson and Johnson have not yet reached the FDA. […]
Avigan trial still awaiting finalization of legal documents –DOH
MANILA, Sept 25 (Mabuhay) — The clinical trials for anti-flu drug Avigan as a treatment for COVID-19 has yet to start in the Philippines because some legal documents are still being ironed out, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said Friday. “We are just waiting for the finalization of the documents, ‘yung clinical trial agreement at […]
Iloilo placed under MECQ from Sept. 25-Oct. 9
MANILA, Sept 25 (Mabuhay) — Iloilo City has reverted to modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) from Sept. 25 to Oct. 9 following the spike in the number of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases, Malacañang said Thursday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this announcement after local officials sought to place the city under a stricter form […]
Tugade not in favor of e-scooters, e-bikes registration — DOTr
MANILA, Sept 24 (Mabuhay) — Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade is not in favor of registering electric bikes and scooters as public transportation is still limited while most of the country is still under community quarantine against COVID-19’s spread. In a statement, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) clarified that there are no official or final guidelines […]
Tagle recovers from Covid-19
MANILA, Sept 24 (Mabuhay) — Former Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle has recovered from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). In an article posted on the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) news website, the news was announced by Pontificio Collegio Filippino (PCF) in Rome on Wednesday. “God wants him to continue serving in […]
Critical utilization rate in PH hospitals has improved: DOH exec
MANILA, Sept 24 (Mabuhay) — The critical utilization rate in public and private hospitals nationwide with regard to the country’s coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) response has improved, a health official said Wednesday. “If we compare from the previous two weeks, for the critical care utilization, for the National Capital Region, in August, we went up […]
DOT checking more tourist destinations for reopening
MANILA, Sept 23 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Tourism is checking the preparedness of tourist destinations for reopening amid the COVID-19 threat, Undersecretary Benito Bengzon Jr. said on Wednesday. Bengzon noted that the department is pursuing a gradual resumption of tourism enterprises in the country. “Unti-unti nating binubuksan ang ating tourist destinations. Ang instruction ni […]
NCR is flattening COVID-19 curve –UP expert
MANILA, Sept 23 (Mabuhay) — Experts from the University of the Philippines on Tuesday said that transmissions of COVID-19 in the country had slowed with Metro Manila flattening the curve of its infections. “The R for the Philippines is .92 and the R for (National Capital Region) is .83. These numbers are below 1 which […]
Thousands of Filipino overseas workers will be brought home, says Duterte
MANILA, Sept 23 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine government aim to continue to bring home thousands of Filipinos working abroad who have been affected by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, said President Rodrigo Duterte. “The Philippine Government has embarked on an unprecedented repatriation program. More than 345,000 overseas Filipino workers needed to come home then.We have […]
Duterte invokes arbitral ruling vs. China in first UN speech
MANILA, Sept 23 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday invoked the country’s arbitral victory in 2016 against China’s massive claims in the South China Sea. In his first speech before the United Nations General Assembly, Duterte said the Philippines rejected any attempt to undermine the July2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in […]
Areas with zero COVID-19 transmission should be classified under new normal — Roque
MANILA, Sept 22 (Mabuhay) — Areas that have registered zero transmission of COVID-19 in a month should be classified under “new normal,” presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said Monday. Roque said his colleagues at the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases were receptive to the idea of reintroducing the new normal classification […]
COVID-19 vaccine may be available in Philippines 2nd quarter of 2021 — DOH
MANILA, Sept 22 (Mabuhay) — The purchase and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines by the Philippine government may only begin in the second quarter of 2021 as foreign manufacturers continue development and trials to ensure their safety and efficacy, the Department of Health (DOH) said. “We need to ensure that all of these vaccines are safe […]
PH raises alert level in Mali due to political unrest
MANILA, Sept 22 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has raised alert level 2 in Mali due to the current political and security situation in the West African country. Under alert level 2, Filipinos are instructed to restrict non-essential movements, avoid public places, and prepare for evacuation. Alert level 2 is issued when […]
PH Covid-19 case count up by 3,475; recoveries now over 230K
MANILA, Sept 22 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday reported 3,475 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the country’s overall tally to 290,190 with only 54,958 active cases. Of the active cases, about 86.6 percent are mild, 8.9 percent are asymptomatic, 1.4 percent are severe, and 3.1 percent are in critical […]
Duterte to address UN for the first time since taking office
MANILA, Sept 21 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte will address the United Nations (UN) for the first time since he took office in 2016. Chief of Presidential Protocol Robert Borje said on Monday the President will deliver this week the Philippines’ statement for the General Debate of the UN General Assembly, which kicked off its […]
Nurses with contracts as of Aug. 31 now allowed to work abroad
MANILA, Sept 21 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has allowed nurses and other healthcare workers with complete documents as of Aug. 31 to leave and work overseas, Malacañang said Monday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the President approved the proposal of Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) to extend the exemption period for healthcare workers from […]
VP Robredo: 200,000 jobs at stake if EU pushes trade sanctions vs PH over human rights issues
MANILA, Sept 21 (Mabuhay)– Over 200,000 Filipinos could lose their jobs if the government fails to meet the standards set by the European Union amid its calls to step up efforts in tackling human rights abuses in the country, Vice President Leni Robredo said Sunday. Citing data from the European Chamber of Commerce in the […]
PH Covid-19 cases rise by 3,311; recoveries now 229,865
MANILA, Sept 21 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday reported 3,311 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the country’s overall tally to 286,743 with only 51,894 active cases. Of the active cases, it said that about 86.6 percent are mild, 8.7 percent are asymptomatic, 1.4 percent are severe, and 3.3 percent […]
Palace says worst of Covid-19 is over
MANILA, Sept 17 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Wednesday claimed that the worst of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) crisis is over since the country has been able to improve its healthcare capacity significantly. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque responded to the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showing that more Filipinos believe that “the worst of […]
2M local workers, OFWs to get aid from Bayanihan 2 — Bello
MANILA, Sept 19 (Mabuhay) — Close to 2 million Filipino workers including displaced overseas Filipino workers are set to benefit from the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act (Bayanihan 2), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Friday. “With this additional budgetary allocation, we expect to aid 700,000 formal sector workers. We also […]
Palace appeals to public: Give ‘staycations’ amid COVID-19 crisis a chance
MANILA, Sept 14 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Monday appealed to the people to give the government’s latest policy allowing hotels to offer “staycations” a chance as the tourism industry suffered losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In a televised briefing, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque defended the new policy amid concerns it may increase the risk […]
Duterte ready to work with Japan’s new PM Yoshihide Suga
MANILA, Sept 18 (Mabuhay) — The Duterte administration is looking forward to working with Japan’s new prime minister Yoshihide Suga to further boost Manila and Tokyo’s bilateral cooperation, Malacañang said on Thursday. “The Duterte Administration is ready to work with Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga in further strengthening the strategic bilateral cooperation building on the special […]
BI deports 129 foreigners to decongest detention facility
MANILA, Sept 18 (Mabuhay) — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Thursday said it has deported 129 foreigners to decongest its detention center in Bicutan, Taguig City, and reduce the risk of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) outbreak. “Total (foreigners): 315. Total deported as of Sept. 15: 129 from BI Warden Facility for Persons Deprived of […]
Duterte yet to decide on proposal to ease travel ban for nurses — Palace
MANILA, Sept 18 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has yet to decide on the proposal of the Labor department to exempt more nurses from the overseas deployment ban due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Malacañang said Thursday. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III has proposed to expand exemptions to those who had contracts abroad as of August […]
Heaven Peralejo denies asking Pacquiaos for financial help
MANILA, Sept 18 (Mabuhay) — Actress Heaven Peralejo took to social media to deny that she asked financial help from the family of her former boyfriend, Jimuel Pacquiao. This comes after veteran entertainment columnist Lolit Solis, in an Instagram post, said the actress asked P100,000 from Jimuel’s father, boxing champion and senator Manny Pacquiao. “The […]
EU Parliament wants to strike down Philippines’ zero-tariff export status
MANILA, Sept 18 (Mabuhay) — Dute to “deteriorating” human rights situation in the Philippines, the European Parliament is pushing for the revocation of the country’s exports tariff exemption. Under the Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) – a mechanism that gives developing countries the privilege of exporting zero-duty merchandise to EU-member states – some of […]
Duterte most likely to extend nat’l state of calamity — Palace
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte will “most likely” extend the declaration of national state of calamity in the country due to coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Malacañang said Monday. In a press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte will likely extend Proclamation 929 that placed the entire Philippines under a […]
Duterte appeals to Malaysia to help Filipinos ‘in your country’
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night appealed to the Malaysian government to help Filipinos “in your country,” despite the “ticklish” issue of Sabah. According to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, 2,000 Filipinos had been repatriated from Sabah, including 400 Filipinos who arrived on Monday. There were still 3,000 Filipinos in Sabah […]
PH Covid-19 cases rise to 265,888; recoveries now 207,504
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday reported 4,699 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the country’s overall tally to 265,888 with only 53,754 active cases. Of the active cases, it said that about 88.4 percent are mild, 8.2 percent are asymptomatic, 2.1 percent severe, and 2.2 percent are […]
CHED opposes academic freeze, pushes for ‘flexible learning’
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is opposed to the proposed academic freeze this school year amid the COVID-19 pandemic. CHED executive director Cinderella Jaro said the proposal seemed based on the “misconception” that tertiary classes for the school year 2020-2021 will be strictly done online. “Yung sinasabi nila na […]
Sanya Lopez says she sacrificed love life to save up for her dream house
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — Making your dream house a reality takes much sacrifice, even for those in the showbiz industry. Sanya Lopez, for example, said that she had to keep a tight control of her spending to be able to afford buying her 200 square meter modern house. But if there’s one thing that […]
Duterte prefers Russia, China’s COVID-19 vaccines as other firms ask for advance payment
MANILA, Sept 15 (Mabuhay) — Some pharmaceutical companies are asking the Philippines to pay in advance for vaccines that are still under development to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday. Duterte slammed the “profit, profit, profit” mindset of Western companies in a televised briefing from Malacañang. […]
Palace appeals to public: Give ‘staycations’ amid COVID-19 crisis a chance
MANILA, Sept 14 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Monday appealed to the people to give the government’s latest policy allowing hotels to offer “staycations” a chance as the tourism industry suffered losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In a televised briefing, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque defended the new policy amid concerns it may increase the risk […]
Philippines logs 3,372 more COVID-19 cases; total at 261,216
MANILA, Sept 14 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) tally leaped to 261,216 on Sunday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 3,372 new infections, marking the sixth straight day in which more than 3,000 new cases were reported. Metro Manila still logged the highest number of new infections at 1,307, followed by […]
Pemberton deported, ‘perpetually’ banned from reentering PH
MANILA, Sept 14 (Mabuhay)– The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Sunday deported US Marine Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton following his release from prison. BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said Pemberton left the country on board a military plane for the United States at exactly 9:14 a.m. “Pemberton has successfully been deported, military plane left at […]
Preps for Pemberton’s deportation underway — BI
MANILA, Sept 12 – Authorities are currently discussing preparations for the impending deportation of US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said on Saturday. “BI agents are conducting a coordination meeting now in Camp Aguinaldo to discuss logistical preparations for Pemberton’s deportation,” BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said in a Viber […]
Alex Gonzaga now has 10 million Instagram followers
MANILA, Sept 12 (Mabuhay)– Alex Gonzaga has now 10 million followers on photo-sharing app Instagram. In her post, Gonzaga thanked all her fans and supporters for her newest social media achievement. As of writing, Gonzaga has 10,027,201 followers on Instagram. Gonzaga is one of the most followed celebrity vloggers with 8 million YouTube subscribers. She […]
WHO solidarity trials might start end Oct, says DOH exec
MANILA, Sept 12 (Mabuhay) — The World Health Organization (WHO) solidarity trials on the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines might start by the last week of October, a health official said Friday. “(In) the fourth week of October, the implementation might start already. And I say the implementation might start because there could be a […]
COVID vaccine in exchange for Pemberton? DOH says no such condition set by US manufacturers
MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) –The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday said none of the US-based manufacturers of COVID-19 vaccine asked for the pardon of US Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton so that the Philippines may be given access to the potential shots that could spell the end of the pandemic. “We have had discussions already […]
Rica Peralejo’s family returns to PH after 6 months in US due to lockdown
MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) — Rica Peralejo has finally returned to the Philippines after an extended stay in the United States due to the coronavirus-induced lockdown, the actress shared on Instagram. “Hi, Manila. We arrived softly on this rainy morning. You are still sleeping, just like my toddler. See you later when we wake up,” […]
Pemberton receives release papers
MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) — US Marine Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton on Friday received his release papers as the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) formally transferred his custody to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) for deportation. BuCor spokesperson Gabriel Chaclag said the transfer was completed at 11:50 a.m. “As of 1150H today, the custody of […]
Philippines’ COVID-19 cases top 245,000 with 3,176 new infections
MANILA, Sept 10 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ tally of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections rose to 245,143 on Wednesday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 3,176 new cases. Metro Manila still recorded the highest number of new infections at 1,327, followed by Batangas with 260, Laguna with 193, Rizal with 176, and Negros Occidental […]
PH, SoKor to continue working together vs. Covid-19, terrorism
MANILA, Sept 10 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines and South Korea will continue working together in responding to various challenges and threats, Philippine Army (PA) commander Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said on Wednesday. “Our love for our countries, families, ways of life, and democracy will keep the lessons of the Korean War contemporary. Against Covid-19 (coronavirus […]
1.5K Pinoys in UAE join Sinopharm’s vaccine clinical trials
MANILA, Sept 10 (Mabuhay) — Some 1,500 Filipinos in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) participated in Sinopharm’s clinical trial for its candidate vaccine against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Chinese Embassy in Manila confirmed Wednesday. In a statement quoting Ambassador Huang Xilian, the Embassy said the 1,500 Filipinos are among the more than 30,000 […]
No problem with deportation of Pemberton after pardon — DOJ
MANILA, Sept 10 (Mabuhay) — Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday said he does not any see any problem in having pardoned US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton deported from the country. “If there was already a final deportation order against Pemberton, and he is not contesting it, then so be it. Either way, […]
PRRD grateful for Abe’s push to boost PH-Japan ties
MANILA, Sept 8 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday expressed gratitude to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for his “valuable contribution” in strengthening ties between the Philippines and Japan. In a statement from the Office of the President, Duterte conveyed his best wishes for Abe’s speedy and full recovery during a 25-minute phone conversation […]
Philippines allows use of antigen test to detect COVID-19
MANILA, Sept 8 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines has allowed the use of the antigen test that detects cases of COVID-19 rapidly, Malacañang said Tuesday. The antigen test may be used as a pre-boarding requirement for asymptomatic domestic tourists before departure and travel to tourist destinations or as a requirement upon entry at the place of […]
Duterte says Philippines has flattened curve in COVID-19 cases
MANILA, Sept 8 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday declared that the Philippines has “flattened the curve” in its campaign against the spread of COVID-19 in the country. “We had obedience and people followed that meant a lot and contributed to what is happening now that there’s a flattening of cases,” Duterte said on […]
Duterte grants absolute pardon to Pemberton — Palace
MANILA, Sept 8 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has granted absolute pardon to US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton who was convicted for the death of Filipino transgender woman Jennifer Laude, Malacañang said on Monday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made this confirmation after Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro “Teddyboy” Locsin Jr. made the announcement on […]
DOH hopes to start Avigan trial in coming weeks
MANILA, Sept 5 (Mabuhay) — The clinical trial for the Japanese antiviral drug Avigan is expected to begin in the next few weeks once the Department of Health (DOH) finalizes the necessary documents for the research. “Hindi pa nauumpisahan ‘yong Avigan trial natin… Atin pong minamadali ang pag-proseso ng mga dokumento, hopefully in the coming […]
2nd Pinoy survivor of missing cattle ship named — DOLE
MANILA, Sept 5 (Mabuhay) –The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Saturday has identified the second rescued Filipino crew member of the capsized Panamanian-flagged vessel Gulf Livestock 1. Citing the report from the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Osaka, Japan, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III identified the second survivor as Jay-Nel Rosales, 30, from […]
Pemberton asks Olongapo court to allow his release
MANILA, Sept 5 (Mabuhay) — US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton on Friday asked the Olongapo City Regional Trial Court (RTC Br. 74) to turn down the motion for reconsideration filed by a relative of victim Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude to stop his release from prison. In a six-page opposition, defense counsel Rowena G. Flores […]
No new, more dangerous SARS-CoV-2 strain in PH — DOH
MANILA, Sept 5 (Mabuhay) — Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire on Friday belied reports that a new and more fatal SARS-CoV-2 strain, the virus causing coronavirus disease (Covid-19), has been spreading in the country. “There is no new strain of the virus here in the Philippines. It is very dangerous and irresponsible to say that […]
3.7K new Covid-19 cases, new recoveries at 1,088 — DOH
MANILA, Sept 5 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday reported 3,714 new cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), bringing the country’s total active cases at 67,786. In its daily Covid-19 bulletin, the DOH said the National Capital Region (NCR) reported the highest number of new cases at 1,797; followed by Negros […]
Pemberton not qualified for GCTA — Laude family lawyer
MANILA, Sept 4 (Mabuhay) — A lawyer for the family of Jennifer Laude said Friday that convicted US Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton is not entitled to good conduct-based deductions to the time he serves in prison. Rommel Bagares of the Center for International Law said Pemberton is unqualified for good conduct time allowances (GCTA) because […]
MTRCB chief: Content regulation on Netflix, other streaming platforms only meant ‘post-monitoring’
MANILA, Sept 4 (Mabuhay) — The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) on Friday said it has no intention of stepping over the viewers’ rights by regulating the content of video on demand platforms like Netflix. “The word kasi na regulate they feel we’re curtailing their freedom. No. MTRCB is not a censoring […]
Russia says Philippines may manufacture anti-COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V
MANILA, Sept 4 (Mabuhay) –Russia is open to the Philippines producing locally the anti-COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V, an official of its embassy in Manila said on Thursday. Tatiana Shlychkova, Minister-Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission at the Russian Embassy in the Philippines, said Russia proposed three options for the Philippines to acquire the vaccine. One […]
1,987 new Covid-19 cases, recoveries now over 159K
MANILA, Sept 4 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday reported 1,987 new coronavirus disease (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 228,403 with only 64,207 active cases. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 91 out of 113 operational laboratories. It reported that […]
Roque deplores court order for Pemberton’s early release
MANILA, Sept 3 (Mabuhay) — Palace Spokesperson Harry Roque on Wednesday slammed the decision of an Olongapo court to approve the early release of United States (US) Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton, who was convicted of killing transgender woman Jennifer Laude in 2014. In a statement, Roque was dismayed by the ruling of Olongapo […]
2,218 new Covid-19 cases, recoveries now over 158K — DOH
MANILA, Sept 3 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday reported 2,218 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 226,440 with only 64,207 active cases. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 102 out of 110 operational laboratories. It reported […]
Philippines logs 3,483 new COVID-19 cases, total soars to 224,264Philippines logs 3,483 new COVID-19 cases, total soars to 224,264
MANILA, Sept 2 (Mabuhay) — The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) tally of the Philippines leapt to 224,264 on Tuesday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 3,483 new infections, marking the seventh straight day in which more than 3,000 new cases were reported. Metro Manila still logged the highest number of new infections at 1,824, […]
Delay hits start of Avigan clinical trials in Philippines
MANILA, Sept 2 (Mabuhay) — The clinical trials for anti-flu drug Avigan did not start as scheduled on Tuesday, September 1, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said Wednesday. Vergeire said this was because three hospitals participating in the clinical trials have yet to finish their ethics review on Avigan. “Hindi ito naumpisahan kahapon kasi nagkaroon […]
Duterte retains GCQ for NCR; Iligan under MECQ
MANILA, Sept 1 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night approved the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF-EID) to retain Metro Manila and two nearby provinces under general community quarantine (GCQ). Duterte said the provinces of Bulacan and Batangas along with the cities of Tacloban and […]
Philippines’ COVID-19 tally now over 220k with 3,446 new cases
MANILA, Sept 1 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) tally soared to 220,819 after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 3,446 new infections on Monday, the sixth consecutive day in which more than 3,000 new cases were reported. The five provinces with the highest number of new infections were Metro Manila with 1,900, […]
POEA extends validity of OFWs’ employment certificates
MANILA, Sept 1 (Mabuhay) — Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) whose overseas employment certificates (OECs) have expired during the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) need not to worry. This, after the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) extended the OECs’ validity until government has lifted all the community quarantines to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in the […]
PH logs 4,284 new Covid-19 cases; recoveries rise by 22,319
MANILA, Aug 31 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday reported 4,284 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 217,396 with only 56,473 active cases. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 100 out of 110 operational laboratories. It reported […]
Thailand sees PH as ‘important’ Asean family member, not rival
MANILA, Aug 29 (Mabuhay) — Thailand considers the Philippines as an “important” family member of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) and not as a rival, a Thai official said on Friday. The clarification was made after Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque recently noted that a “fierce” tourism competition between Manila and Bangkok may […]
Lagundi clinical trials get FDA nod — DOST chief
MANILA, Aug 29 (Mabuhay) — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the clinical trials for the local herb lagundi as a mode of adjuvant therapy, the chief of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said on Friday. “It was earlier approved by the DOST, and now the FDA also approved the conduct […]
4K new Covid-19 infections, active cases nearing 72K — DOH
MANILA, Aug 29 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday reported 3,999 new cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), bringing the country’s total active cases to 71,745. In its daily Covid-19 bulletin, the DOH said the areas with the highest number of reported infections were the National Capital Region (NCR) with 2,097 […]
UP experts’ new projection: 330k to 375k COVID-19 cases by Sept. 30
MANILA, Aug 28 (Mabuhay) — The number of COVID-19 cases in the Philippine may rise to up to 375,000 by the end of September, according to the newest projection made by experts from the University of the Philippines. In their August 27 forecast report, the UP-OCTA research team said the projected total number of cases […]
Philippines logs 3,249 new COVID-19 cases, total rises to 205,581
MANILA, Aug 28 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines now has 205,581 cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) after the Department of Health (DOH) reported 3,249 new infections on Thursday. Metro Manila still logged the highest number of new cases at 1,584, followed by Cavite with 147, Laguna with 143, Negros Occidental with 140, and Batangas with […]
Cheaper saliva test for COVID-19 a ‘game changer,’ says Project ARK leader
MANILA, Aug 27 (Mabuhay) — Project Antibody Rapid Test Kit (ARK), the private-sector-led initiative that aims to boost the country’s capacity to identify and contain COVID-19, on Thursday said it working to bring to the Philippines the “antigen saliva test” for faster and cheaper detection of the coronavirus. “Ginagawa ito sa Israel at sa San […]
PH logs 5.2K new Covid-19 cases; recoveries rise to 133K
MANILA, Aug 27 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday reported 5,277 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 202,361 with 65,764 active cases. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 95 out of 109 operational laboratories. It reported that […]
DFA chief thumbs down proposed PCG attaché in Beijing
MANILA, Aug 26 (Mabuhay) — Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. has rejected the reported proposal to place an attaché for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Beijing, saying it would equate to Manila conceding its rights in the West Philippine Sea. Locsin said establishing a separate office for the PCG at the Philippine Embassy […]
BuCor asked to compute Pemberton’s served jail time
MANILA, Aug 26 (Mabuhay) — The Olongapo City Regional Trial Court (RTC) has requested from the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) the computation of the jail time served by US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton, an official of the Department of Justice (DOJ) said on Tuesday. “BuCor has been asked by the court in (Olongapo) […]
PH logs 2,965 new Covid-19 cases; recoveries now 132,396
MANILA, Aug 26 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday reported 2,965 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the country’s overall tally to 197,164 with 61,730 active cases. According to the DOH, the additional cases were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 95 out of 109 operational laboratories. Of the […]
PH Covid-19 cases rise by 4,686; recoveries now 132,042
MANILA, Aug 25 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday reported 4,686 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 194,252 with only 59,200 active cases. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 95 out of 109 operational laboratories. It reported […]
He said authorities are still determining what kind of bomb was used in the incident.
Joint Task Force Sulu spokesman Captain Rex Payot said military forces were assisting local government officials in their COVID-19 response efforts when the blast happened. Police Regional Office – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao chief Police Brigadier General Manuel Abu told GMA News Online that the incident happened in Barangay Walled City at 11:40 […]
JM de Guzman shares how he copes with his panic disorder
MANILA, Aug 25 (Mabuhay) — Actor JM de Guzman, who over the years has been open about his mental health struggles, shared on Monday a video of an episode of his panic disorder, as he reminded followers who may be in a similar situation that, “You are not alone.” On Instagram, the “Pamilya Ko” star […]
Avigan trials in PH still hasn’t started — DOH
MANILA, Aug 24 (Mabuhay) — The clinical trials for the anti-flu drug Avigan as possible treatment for COVID-19 has yet to start in the Philippines for various reasons, a health official said Monday or a week since the experiment is supposed to have begun. “Ang Avigan trial natin, hindi pa sya nag-uumpisa. Supposedly, it was […]
No present clamor for revolutionary gov’t: Panelo
MANILA, Aug 24 (Mabuhay) — Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo on Sunday brushed aside efforts of a pro-Duterte group to establish a revolutionary government, saying it will only matter if there is an “overwhelming call” from the public. In a statement, Panelo said the call of a revolutionary government “must come from the people […]
PH Covid-19 cases rise by 2,378; recoveries climb to 131,367
MANILA, Aug 24 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday reported 2,378 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 189,601 with 55,236 active cases. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 99 out of 109 operational laboratories. It also noted […]
Roque on proposal for a revolutionary gov’t: No support from Palace
MANILA, Aug 24 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Monday said it does not support calls for the establishment of a revolutionary government being pushed by the supporters of President Rodrigo Duterte amid the COVID-19 crisis. In a televised briefing, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque maintained that the government is focused on the job of bringing the pandemic […]
Philippines inks €24.5M financing agreement for Bangsamoro development, Marawi rehab
MANILA, Aug 24 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines has inked a €24.5-million financing agreement with the European Union, its third so far this year, to finance initiatives in the Bangsamoro region and assist in the rehabilitation of Marawi City. In a statement released Monday, the Department of Finance (DOF) said the financing agreement (FA) was signed […]
ADB supports PH financial inclusion reforms with $300-M loan
MANILA, Aug 22 (Mabuhay) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD300-million policy-based loan to support the Philippine government’s efforts to boost inclusive growth by implementing reforms to expand Filipinos’ access to financial services, especially in unserved and underserved areas across the country. ADB’s Inclusive Finance Development Program, Subprogram 2, is supporting reforms […]
3 million unreported COVID-19 cases a ‘stretch,’ says UP prof
MANILA, Aug 22 (Mabuhay) — The estimation that three million Filipinos with COVID-19 remained under the radar from April to June was rather unlikely, Professor Guido David from the University of the Philippines’ Institute of Mathematics said Friday. “Maybe I could buy that there were more cases than what was reported, particularly in certain demographic […]
4.7K new Covid-19 infections; active cases now 64.9K
MANILA, Aug 22 (Mabuhay) –The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday reported 4,786 new infections of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), bringing the country’s active cases at 64,906. In its daily Covid-19 bulletin, the DOH said the new cases bring the country’s total to 182,365, noting that the region with the highest number of new […]
LGUs should allow entry of returning residents amid COVID-19 — Palace
MANILA, Aug 21 (Mabuhay) — Local government units (LGUs) should allow entry to returning residents in their respective jurisdictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said Friday. “In-adopt ng IATF ‘yung national na polisiya na lahat ng local na pamahalaan, lahat ng governors, city and municipal mayors at punong barangays, ay dapat tanggapin […]
Philippines logs 4,339 new COVID-19 cases, total tops 178,000
MANILA, Aug 21 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines now has 178,022 cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 4,339 new infections on Thursday, marking the third straight day in which more than 4,000 new cases were reported. Metro Manila, the epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country, still logged […]
Isko closes shops with items labeling Manila ‘province of China’
MANILA, Aug 21 (Mabuhay) — Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso ordered the closure of business establishments selling products with the label “Manila, province of China”. Four business establishments in Binondo, Manila were closed by the Bureau of Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) of Manila led by Levi Facundo and Major Jhun Ibay of the […]
Philippines’ COVID-19 tally soars past 173,000 with 4,650 new cases
MANILA, Aug 20 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) tally soared to 173,774 after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 4,650 new infections on Wednesday, the eighth consecutive day in which over 3,000 new cases were logged. The five provinces with the highest number of new infections were Metro Manila with 3,092, Cavite […]
Solon seeks blacklisting of Chinese beauty product for listing Manila as ‘province of China’
MANILA, Aug 20 (Mabuhay) — PBA party-list Representative Jericho Nograles has called on authorities to investigate and blacklist the Chinese beauty product distributed locally after it listed its Manila address as a “province” of China. Nograles has sent letters to the Department of Trade and Industry and the Food and Drug Administration to complain about […]
DOH still studying if G strain of virus caused spike in COVID-19 cases
MANILA, Aug 19 (Mabuhay) — The increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the country cannot be traced yet to the presence of the G variant of SARS-CoV-2—the virus that causes COVID-19—even if such variant has already been spotted in June, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said. The Department of Health (DOH) official made the clarification […]
Philippines bans poultry importation from Australia due to bird flu
MANILA, Aug 19 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has imposed a temporary ban on the importation of fowls and their byproducts from Australia due to the outbreak of avian influenza or bird flu in the said country. Agriculture Secretary William Dar issued Memorandum Order No. 40 series of 2020 on August 14, a […]
‘Animated’ Duterte not sick — Palace
MANILA, Aug 19 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte seems to be “animated” and remains to be in very good condition, Malacañang assured the public on Tuesday. In a virtual presser aired on state-run PTV-4, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte having a “lively” public address on late Monday night proves that the 75-year-old President is […]
Philippines’ COVID-19 cases breach 169,000 with 4,836 new infections
MANILA, Aug 19 (Mabuhay) — The number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines leapt to 169,213 on Tuesday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 4,836 new infections, marking the seventh straight day in which more than 3,000 new cases were reported. Metro Manila still logged the highest number of new cases […]
PhilHealth execom is ‘real, bad’ mafia, says regional VP
MANILA, Aug 18 (Mabuhay) — PhilHealth regional vice president Dennis Adre on Tuesday supported the claim that the incumbent executive committee of the state health insurer is the “mafia” behind several alleged irregularities. “In the previous Senate hearings, Board member Alejandro Cabading and Atty. [Thorrsson Montes] Keith categorically stated that the execom is operating as […]
Magnitude 6.6 quake rocks Masbate
MANILA, Aug 18 (Mabuhay) — A magnitude 6.6 earthquake jolted Masbate on Tuesday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported. The tectonic quake was located 7 kilometers southeast of Cataingan, Masbate at 8:03 a.m. It had a depth of 21 kilometers. Intensity VII, which Phivolcs describes as “destructive”, was felt in Cataingan. Intensity […]
Duterte places NCR, 4 nearby provinces back to less strict GCQ
MANLA, Aug 18 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Monday night approved the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) to put Metro Manila and four nearby provinces back to less restrictive general community quarantine (GCQ). In his public address in Davao City, Duterte said aside from […]
Covid-19 cases rise by 3,314; recoveries climb to 112,759
MANILA, Aug 18 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday reported 3,314 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 164,474. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 91 out of 105 operational laboratories. Majority of the newly announced cases were […]
Duterte in ‘perpetual isolation’ as precaution vs. COVID-19 — Palace
MANILA, Aug 17 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has been in “perpetual isolation” to keep him safe from COVID-19, Malacañang said Monday. In a televised briefing, Duterte’s spokesperson Harry Roque praised the Presidential Security Group (PSG) for ensuring that the 75-year-old Duterte is protected against COVID-19. “He is in perpetual isolation in the sense that […]
Adult joblessness surged to record-high 45.5% in July — SWS poll
MANILA, Aug 17 (Mabuhay) — Adult joblessness in the Philippines rose to a record-high of 45.5% in July with half of the unemployed saying they lost their jobs during the coronavirus pandemic, a recent poll of the Social Weather Stations (SWS) revealed. According to the results of the SWS National Mobile Phone Survey, adult joblessness […]
DOH logs 40K new Covid-19 recoveries; new cases rise by 3,420
MANILA, Aug 17 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday reported 3,420 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 161,253. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 99 out of 105 operational laboratories. Majority of the newly announced cases were […]
PH imposes temporary ban on chicken imports from Brazil
MANILA, Aug 15 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has imposed a temporary ban on the import of poultry meat from Brazil as a precautionary measure after the detection of SARS-COV-2, the causative agent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), in chicken wings imported from the country. The ban was contained in a memorandum […]
BI: Visa-holding foreign spouses of Filipinos can still enter Philippines
MANILA, Aug 15 (Mabuhay) — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Friday clarified that foreign spouses of Filipinos can enter the Philippines if they have existing valid visas. “If you are married to a Philippine citizen and a holder of a valid visa that you obtained from the Bureau, you may enter the country without […]
6.2K new Covid-19 cases; PH total now 153K — DOH
MANILA, Aug 15 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) reported 6,216 new cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) on Friday, with the country’s total now reaching 153,660. In its daily Covid-19 bulletin, the DOH said the new infections bring the number of active cases nationwide to 79,813, with the majority of new cases […]
OFWs affected by Beirut blast get DOLE assistance
MANILA, Aug 14 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Thursday said it has extended assistance to over 20 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were affected by the explosions in Beirut, Lebanon. “(Around) 28 (OFWs were) provided with welfare and relief assistance,” Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said in a statement. Bello […]
PH in talks with at least 16 COVID-19 vaccine developers – DOH
MANILA, Aug 14 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health on Friday said the government is in talks with more than a dozen COVID-19 vaccine developers as the country continues to grapple with the fast-spreading disease. “We have about 16 vaccine manufacturers na may different stages ng pag-uusap (that are in different stages of talks),” Health […]
4,002 new cases bring Philippines’ COVID-19 tally over 147,000
MANILA, Aug 14 (Mabuhay) — There are now 147,526 Filipinos nationwide infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 4,002 new cases on Thursday, the second day in a row in which over 4,000 new infections were reported. The bulk of the newly reported cases still hailed from the epicenter […]
Philippines’ COVID-19 tally tops 143,000 with 4,444 new cases
MANILA, Aug 13 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ tally of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases jumped to 143,749 on Wednesday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 4,444 new infections. The five provinces with the highest number of new cases were Metro Manila with 2,618, Laguna with 233, Cavite with 227, Rizal with 174, and Bulacan […]
Sputnik V availability in Philippines seen by April 2021
MANILA, Aug 13 (Mabuhay) — Russia’s anti-COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V could be available for commercial use in the Philippines by April 2021, a Philippine official who recently met with Russian authorities said Thursday. Dr. Jaime Montoya, executive director of Philippine Council for Health Research, was part of a team of Philippine health and vaccine experts […]
Beijing welcomes FDA approval of Chinese traditional medicine
MANILA, Aug 13 (Mabuhay) — The Chinese Embassy in Manila on Wednesday welcomed the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval of Lian Hua Qing Wen, a China-manufactured herbal medicine. In a statement, the Embassy said this marks an “important progress” in the entry of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) products into the Philippine market. The Embassy […]
PH, SoKor navies discuss Covid-19 defense in virtual talks
MANILA, Aug 13 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Navy (PN) and the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) discussed defense efforts against the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic while keeping operational capabilities on track, in their first virtual “Navy to Navy Talks” (NTNT) on Wednesday. “This year’s talks focused on the sharing of best practices between […]
Jake Cuenca responds to netizen’s claim celebrities don’t feel effect of pandemic
MANILA, Aug 12 (Mabuhay) — Jake Cuenca did not let a comment of a netizen pass after the latter claimed that celebrities like him are more privileged during this time of the coronavirus pandemic. The comment came after Cuenca disagreed with a statement made by Senator Cynthia Villar about how the local medical community should […]
PH Covid-19 cases rise by 2,987 to 139,538; recoveries now 68,432
MANILA, Aug 12 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday reported 2,987 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 139,538. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 74 out of 99 operational laboratories. Majority of the newly announced cases are […]
US launches P1-B biodiversity project in PH
MANILA, Aug 12 (Mabuhay) — The United States government announced Tuesday a five-year biodiversity project worth PHP1.1 billion or around USD22 million to combat environmental crimes and help the country sustainably manage its natural resources. The Sustainable Interventions for Biodiversity, Oceans, and Landscapes (SIBOL) project, to be implemented by RTI International, is funded by the […]
‘Land of Covid-19’ tag on PH motivated by tourism competition
MANILA, Aug 12 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Wednesday called for understanding over Thailand’s struggling tourism industry after a Thai newspaper branded the Philippines as “Land of Covid-19” (coronavirus disease 2019) in relation to the return of more than a hundred Filipino teachers there. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque acknowledged that there is no way to control […]
DOST to lead clinical trials for Covid-19 vaccine from Russia
MANILA, Aug 12 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will lead the clinical trials for a coronavirus virus (Covid-19) vaccine developed and offered to the Philippines by the Russian Federation, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Tuesday. In a message to reporters, the DOH said the DOST is the lead agency […]
PRRD accepts Russia’s CoVid-19 vaccine offer
MANILA, Aug 11 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday accepted the offer of Russia to supply the Philippines with its coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines once mass production starts. In a public address in Davao City, Duterte said he is “very happy” by the news that Russia would provide vaccines free of charge. “Maligayang-maligaya […]
PH logs record 6,958 new Covid-19 cases
MANILA, Aug 11 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday reported record-high 6,958 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, raising the overall tally to 136,638. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 74 out of 99 operational laboratories. Majority of the newly announced cases […]
PH still asserting sovereign rights vs China — Panelo
MANILA, Aug 11 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines continues to assert its sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea against China amid the prevailing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo said on Monday. In his commentary show “Counterpoint” aired on state-run PTV-4, Panelo hit critics anew for saying that the Duterte […]
Duterte’s dilemma: After Russian vaccine, can I get COVID-19 shots from other countries?
MANILA, Aug 11 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte is facing a “dilemma” on coronavirus vaccine clinical trials, Malacañang said Tuesday after the chief executive volunteered to be immunized with Russia’s newly developed drug. Duterte on Monday night welcomed Moscow’s offer to supply Manila with COVID-19 vaccines, saying he would volunteer to be inoculated in public […]
One year not enough to solve ‘systematic’ PhilHealth fraud, Morales says
MANILA, Aug 11 (Mabuhay) — Embattled PhilHealth President and CEO Ricardo Morales on Tuesday said his one year of service in the state health insurer is not enough to stem the deep-seated problem of fraud. “Fraud has always been with the system as it has always been in all similar health systems in the world. […]
Supreme Court to hold oral arguments on anti-terror law
MANILA, Aug 11 (Mabuhay) — The Supreme Court (SC) will conduct oral arguments on the petitions challenging the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. Court spokesman Brian Keith Hosaka said Tuesday that the SC will be hearing oral arguments on the case on the third week of September at the earliest. It was not immediately known whether […]
DFA: Number of injured Filipinos in Beirut blasts now at 47
MANILA, Aug 10 (Mabuhay) — The number of Filipinos injured in last week’s deadly blasts in Beirut, Lebanon has increased to 47, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Monday. An embassy report said there were five more Filipino casualties in the explosion that killed at least 154 people, including 4 Filipinos, and injured 5,000. The […]
DOH earmarks initial P2.4 billion for purchase of vaccine vs. COVID-19
MANILA, Aug 10 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health has initially allocated P2.4 billion for the purchase of vaccine against COVID-19 under its proposed budget for 2021, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said Monday. “We allocated P2.4 billion for purchase of COVID-19 vaccine. We don’t know how much we can be able to procure, pero […]
US Embassy urges nationals to reconsider travel to the Philippines
MANILA, Aug 10 (Mabuhay) — The United States Embassy in the Philippines on Saturday urged their citizens to reconsider travel to the country due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In a travel advisory, the embassy said that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a level 3 Travel Health Notice for […]
DOH warns vs. illegal trade of recovered Covid patients’ plasma
MANILA, Aug 10 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) strongly reminds the public against the buying and selling of convalescent plasma of recovered coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) patients. Studies have shown that it could pose serious risks to patients, who may contract transfusion-transmissible infections (TTIs) such as HIV, hepatitis and malaria. The reminder to […]
PH Covid-19 tally nears 130K; recoveries rise to 67,673
MANILA, Aug 10 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday reported 3,109 new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections, pushing the overall tally to 129,913. The DOH said the additional cases reported were based on the total Covid-19 tests done by 82 out of 99 operational laboratories. Majority of the newly announced cases came […]
Philippines reports 3,379 new COVID-19 cases; total at over 122K
MANILA, Aug 8 (Mabuhay) — The number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the country rose to 122,754 on Friday after the Department of Health (DOH) reported 3,379 new infections of which 2,298 are “fresh” or newly validated and 1,081 are late. This marks the ninth consecutive day where over 3,000 new cases were […]
400 Pinoys from Lebanon returning to PH — envoy
MANILA, Aug 8 (Mabuhay) — About 400 Filipinos are expected to return home in the coming weeks following the catastrophic twin explosions in the Lebanese capital of Beirut on August 4. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said a flight scheduled on August 16 also seeks to bring home the mortal remains of Filipinos killed […]
1 in 4 MSMEs closed due to COVID-19 pandemic– trade chief
MANILA, Aug 8 (Mabuhay) — The COVID-19 pandemic has shuttered about a quarter of the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the trade department said Friday, as authorities lined up measures to lift the economy from recession. About 26 percent of 1.5 million MSMEs were “partially or temporarily closed” by the pandemic, 52 percent […]
Asean leaders can defeat Covid-19 — Duterte
MANILA, Aug 8 (Mabuhay) — The 10-man Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) will become successful in the fight against the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) through continued cooperation and collective efforts to arrest the spread of the disease in the region, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Saturday. Duterte issued the statement as the regional bloc celebrates […]
One time, big time lockdown needed to flatten virus curve — Leachon
MANILA, Aug 8 (Mabuhay) — A former adviser to the government task force on COVID-19 response on Saturday said that a one time, big time lockdown is still needed to address the COVID-19 pandemic as infections continued to surge in the country. Dr. Tony Leachon, who left the national task force on pandemic response in […]
DFA spending P15M for repatriation efforts after Beirut blast —Locsin
MANILA, Aug 8 (Mabuhay) — Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. said Saturday that the DFA is paying P15 million from the agency’s funds for chartered flights to repatriate Filipinos affected by deadly and devastating blast in Beirut, Lebanon. In his tweet, Secretary Locsin also said the expected arrival of the chartered Qatar […]
Philippines’ total COVID-19 cases near 120,000-mark
MANILA, Aug 7 (Mabuhay) — Coronavirus infections in the Philippines reached 119,460 on Thursday as the country’s health department reported 3,561 additional COVID-19 cases. This marks the eighth consecutive day during which over 3,000 new cases were reported. The five provinces with the highest number of new cases were Metro Manila with 2,041, Laguna with […]
DFA chief orders check on Chinese survey vessel near Reed Bank
MANILA, Aug 7 (Mabuhay) — Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, Jr. on Friday instructed the Department of Foreign Affairs Office of Asian and Pacific Affairs (ASPAC) to check on reports that a Chinese survey vessel is currently near Reed or Recto Bank within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. Reacting to a tweet by Indo-Pacific News […]
Poe wants greater protection, benefits for OFWs
MANILA, Aug 7 (Mabuhay) — Sen. Grace Poe pressed for the immediate passage of a bill that would provide greater protection to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have unjustly or prematurely lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 crisis. Senate Bill No. 1476 or the proposed Act to Further Assist Filipino Migrant Workers will entitle […]
Palace concerned as economy plunges into recession
MANILA, Aug 7 (Mabuhay)– Malacañang on Thursday expressed concern over the state of the economy which slipped into a recession for the first time in nearly three decades. The economy shrank by a record 16.5% in the April to June period when lockdowns meant to prevent the spread of COVID-19 shut down around 75% of […]
Palace won’t accept PH has more COVID-19 cases than Indonesia, highest in ASEAN
MANILA, Aug 7 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Friday refused to accept that the Philippines has overtaken Indonesia in the number of coronavirus infections, claiming that the numbers are a result of Manila’s more aggressive testing than Jakarta. The Philippines’ COVID-19 tally of 119,460 cases as of Thursday topped Indonesia’s 118,753, making it the Southeast Asian […]
August 10 start of Avigan trials in Philippines not yet final, DOH clarifies
MANILA, Aug 7 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) clarified that the August 10 start of clinical trials in the Philippines of the Japanese anti-viral flu drug Avigan is not yet final, saying legal documents have yet to be finalized. “Yung una sinabi namin August 10 tayo mag-start pero hindi pa kasi namin, hindi […]
DFA to intensify efforts to repatriate Pinoys in Beirut — Palace
MANILA, Aug 5 (Mabuhay)– The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) will intensify its efforts to repatriate Filipinos in Beirut, Lebanon, Malacañang said Wednesday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made the assurance after the DFA confirmed that two Filipinos were killed, eight were injured, and 11 went missing in the massive explosion that ripped through Lebanon’s capital. […]
Philippine economy nosedives into recession
MANILA, Aug 6 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine economy plunged further in the second quarter to mark its worst performance on record, bringing the country to a technical recession amid the COVID-19 pandemic. In a virtual briefing on Thursday, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said the economy contracted by 16.5% during the April to June period. […]
Philippine economic managers expecting deeper economic slump of -5.5% for 2020
MANILA, Aug 6 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines’ economic managers have revised their economic performance assumptions for the entire 2020, seeing a deeper contraction than earlier projected as they took into consideration the country’s plunge to recession and Metro Manila return to stricter lockdown for two weeks. “The Development Budget Coordination Committee has revised the GDP […]
Philippines’ COVID-19 tally leaps to 115,980, highest in Southeast Asia
MANILA, Aug 6 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines now has the highest number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases across Southeast Asia, overtaking Indonesia, after the Department of Health (DOH) reported 3,462 new infections on Wednesday for a total of 115,980. Indonesia, on the other hand, has logged 115,056 cases as of Tuesday. The Philippines also […]
2 Filipinos among dead in Beirut blast — DFA
MANILA, Aug 5 (Mabuhay) — Two Filipinos were killed in the massive explosion that ripped through Lebanon’s capital Beirut, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed Wednesday. In a text message, Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Eduardo Meñez said eight Filipinos were also injured during the blast and 11 are missing. “Per latest reports from the […]
Alden Richards, Nadine Lustre open to work on a movie together
MANILA, Aug 5 (Mabuhay)– Alden Richards has said he is willing to work again with Nadine Lustre. Alden and Nadine, who are a “fitspiration” to their fans, are co-ambassadors of a health and fitness competition. According to Alden, he has worked with Nadine when she is just starting her career. “During the early stages ng […]
Philippines logs record-high 6,352 new COVID-19 cases, total up to 112,593
MANILA, Aug 5 (Mabuhay) — The Philippines once again broke its own record for the highest number of new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in a single day after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 6,352 new infections on Tuesday, bringing the total to 112,593. This is the first time that over 6,000 new cases […]
3,226 new cases bring Philippines’ COVID-19 tally to 106,330
MANILA, Aug 4 (Mabuhay) — There are now 106,330 cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the Philippines after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 3,226 new cases on Monday. This marks the fifth day in a row during which new infections breached the 3,000 mark after four straight days of record-high new cases. The […]
No shoot to kill order vs. quarantine violators, PNP chief Gamboa assures public
MANILA, Aug 4 (Mabuhay) — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Archie Francisco Gamboa assured the public Tuesday ensured that there is no shoot to kill order against quarantine violators amid the modified enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila and other high-risk areas. “Shoot to kill? Wala naman, baka lang to emphasize things…” Gamboa […]
Health workers’ frustration expected after Duterte lambasted plea for ‘timeout’ — Lacson
MANILA, Aug 4 (Mabuhay)– Senator Panfilo Lacson on Monday said frustration can be an expected emotional response from the medical frontliners who got castigated by President Rodrigo Duterte after publicly airing their request for a “time out.” “Kung sa kanila I heard libo ang tine-treat daily at exposed na exposed at maraming namatay sa kanila. […]
Is the Philippines winning the fight vs. COVID-19? DOH says ‘we’re managing cases’
MANILA, Aug 3 (Mabuhay) — The country is still in the thick of the battle against COVID-19 as it prepares its health care facilities and its health workers for a possible increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, Health Undersecretary Rosario Vergeire said on Monday. “Sa tanong kung nananalo ba tayo, nagma-manage po tayo, pine-prepare […]
Catriona Gray seeks P10M from tabloid over fake topless photos
MANILA, Aug 3 (Mabuhay) — Catriona Gray is demanding P10 million from a tabloid over its “false” allegations about her having nude photos. The former Miss Universe title-holder said local tabloid Bulgar caused “immeasurable damage” to her reputation by publishing an article with an alleged topless photo of hers. In the circulated demand letter, Gray […]
Philippine COVID-19 cases breach 100,000 with record-high 5,032 new infections
MANILA, Aug 3 (Mabuhay) — The number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines breached the 100,000 mark on Sunday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 5,032 more infections, the fourth all-time high in a row, bringing the total to 103,185. This marks the first time during which more than 5,000 new […]
New Clark Airport terminal building to open before end-2020 — BCDA
MANILA, Aug 3 (Mabuhay) — The new passenger terminal building (PTB) at the Clark International Airport is on track to open by the end of the year and will be fully operational by January next year, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) announced Sunday. In an emailed statement, the BCDA said the building shell […]
PRRD heeds front-liners’ call; reverts NCR, other areas to MECQ
MANILA, Aug 3 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has reverted Metro Manila to modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) from Aug. 4 to 18 as coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases in the country exceeded 100,000. In a late-night public address on Sunday, Duterte approved the recommendation of his Cabinet to return to a more stringent quarantine status […]
Doctor urges 2-week NCR ECQ as ‘breather’ for exhausted frontliners
MANILA, Aug 1 (Mabuhay) — The government should again place Metro Manila under an enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), even just for two weeks, to give health workers a time to recuperate from exhaustion due to the non-stop admission of COVID-19 patients in hospitals, Philippine College of Physicians Vice President Dr. Maricar Limpin said Friday. “Ang […]
DOH supports call of medical groups for proper quarantine enforcement
MANILA, Aug 1 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday said it supports the appeal of medical frontline workers to ensure that community quarantine is properly enforced. This was after health frontline workers asked the government to revert to a stricter enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) as the coronavirus disease infections continue to rise […]
Metro Manila should be placed under ECQ anew, Sotto and Lacson agree
MANILA, Aug 1 (Mabuhay) — Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Senator Panfilo Lacson both agree that Metro Manila should be placed again under the much stricter enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) as the cases of COVID-19 in the country continue to increase. The two senators issued separate statements in response to calls from medical professionals […]
Philippines logs 3,954 new COVID-19 cases, 38k recoveries
MANILA, July 31 (Mabuhay) — There are now 89,374 Filipinos infected with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) after the Department of Health (DOH) reported a record-high 3,954 new cases on Thursday, 1,320 of which were “fresh” or newly validated and 2,634 were reported late. This marks the first time that new cases breached the 3,000 […]
Gatchalian urges transparency in study of nuclear energy
MANILA, July 31 (Mabuhay) — Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Thursday urged the inter-agency committee assigned to study the possible use of nuclear energy to proceed with utmost transparency to the public, saying that nuclear power is a ‘risky’ business. On Wednesday, President Rodrigo Duterte formed the Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee to study the possibility […]
Duterte places Cebu City, keeps NCR under GCQ
MANILA, July 31 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has downgraded the quarantine classification in Cebu City to a less restrictive general community quarantine (GCQ) from a more stringent modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ). In a taped public address aired on state-run PTV-4 on Friday morning, Duterte also announced his decision to retain the GCQ status […]
20 million Filipinos to get free COVID-19 vaccine — Finance chief Dominguez
MANILA, July 31 (Mabuhay)– At least 20 million Filipinos will be provided with COVID-19 vaccine for free, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said. At a briefing in Malacañang Thursday night and aired Friday morning, Dominguez said the government is capable of financing P20 billion worth of COVID-19 vaccines which are expected to be ready by […]
Palace thanks China commitment for Covid-19 vaccine access
MANILA, July 31 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Thursday thanked China for its commitment to prioritize the Philippines’ request for immediate access to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine it is developing. In a virtual press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque was glad that the mended relationship between Beijing and Manila yields positive results. “Nagpapasalamat po […]
UP experts project 150k COVID-19 cases by end of August
MANILA, July 31 (Mabuhay) — Experts from the University of the Philippines (UP) said Friday the number of COVID-19 cases in the country may reach 150,000 by the end of August. Almost double the current national case total, the projection reflects the “exponential growth” experts have talked about, Professor Ranjit Rye of the UP OCTA […]
Philippines’ COVID-19 tally tops 85,000 with 1,874 new cases
MANILA, July 30 (Mabuhay) — The number of Filipinos infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) breached the 85,000 mark on Wednesday after the Department of Health (DOH) announced 1,874 new cases, bringing the total to 85,486. This marks the 15th straight day during which at least 1,300 new infections were recorded. The five provinces with […]
DFA chief asserts PH Sabah claim; summons Malaysian envoy
MANILA, July 30 (Mabuhay) — Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. on Thursday said he would summon the Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines following a Twitter spat with Foreign Minister Hishammuddin Hussein over Sabah. In a series of tweets, the Filipino top diplomat stressed that Manila would never abandon its claim over the territory. “No […]
No COVID-19 cases yet among Filipinos living in Brazil — ambassador
MANILA, July 30 (Mabuhay)– The Philippines’ foreign service post in Brazil has not recorded a single case of a Filipino who contracted COVID-19, an official said Thursday. Ambassador Marichu Mauro gave the report after Brazil—one of the worst-hit countries by COVID-19—recorded 69,074 new confirmed cases on Wednesday. “Sa awa ng Diyos wala naman po tayong […]
78 Filipinos test positive for coronavirus in SoKor
MANILA, July 30 (Mabuhay)– The Philippine Embassy in Seoul reported Wednesday that 78 Filipinos were diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in South Korea. In a Laging Handa briefing, Charge d’Affaires Christian L. de Jesus said 34 of the 78 have already recovered and discharged from hospitals. “A total of forty-four are currently under treatment, […]
Metro Manila returning to MECQ not a ‘foregone conclusion’ –Palace
MANILA, July 29 (Mabuhay) — It remains to be seen whether Metro Manila will return to modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) next month, Malacañang said Tuesday. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. said the possibility that the government will reimpose a stricter lockdown in the capital region was not a “foregone conclusion” since the case doubling […]
Fight vs. Covid-19 still ‘successful’ — Palace
MANILA, July 29 (Mabuhay) — Despite the spike in confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases in the country, Malacañang on Wednesday said the fight against the novel coronavirus remains “successful”. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said there are improvements in the government’s Covid-19 response because the country’s mortality rate is “still way below” the global average. […]
No reason to celebrate, UP’s Covid-19 forecast happened –Palace
MANILA, July 29 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Wednesday said there is no reason to celebrate now, as it admitted that the country would not be able to beat the University of the Philippines’ (UP) prediction that coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections may breach 85,000 by July 31. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque acknowledged that this time, […]
Gov’t debt balloons to record P9.05T as of end-June as borrowing increased due to COVID-19
MANILA, July 29 (Mabuhay) — The national government’s outstanding debt swelled to a record P9.054 trillion, breaching P9-trillion mark, as of end-June as the state ramped up borrowing to support COVID-19 response and recovery efforts, data released by the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) showed Wednesday. The end-June outstanding government debt is 1.8% higher than […]
BIR maintains POGOs should pay 5% franchise tax
MANILA, July 28 (Mabuhay) — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has maintained that foreign-based Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) should pay the 5% franchise tax before they can resume their operations. In a statement, the taxman said the payment of 5% franchise tax on POGOs is clearly stated in a memorandum circular issued by […]
DA confirms bird flu in Pampanga egg farm
MANILA, July 29 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Agriculture through the Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI) on Wednesday confirmed the detection of a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strain, specifically A(H5N6), in a poultry layer or egg-producing farm in San Luis, Pampanga. Using the “one health approach,” the DA-BAI — in tandem with the DA […]
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 […]