China to US: ‘Be careful’
Beijing, China | AFP | – Beijing’s defense ministry on Thursday warned the US navy to “be careful” in the South China Sea and slammed a newly signed agreement between Washington and the Philippines. Earlier this month, Manila agreed to give US forces access to five military bases, including some close to the disputed South China Sea, where tensions […]
Poe regains solo lead in ABS-CBN Pulse Asia survey
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The anticipated “bounce” in Sen. Grace Poe’s numbers to be triggered supposedly by the favorable ruling she had received from the Supreme Court has yet to show. The latest ABS-CBN survey conducted by Pulse Asia showed the neophyte senator reclaiming solo lead among prospective winners in the May presidential election. Poe got […]
Jim Parsons cast in “Hidden Figures”
Actor Jim Parsons, known for his role as Sheldon Cooper in “Big Bang Theory”, will be joining director Ted Melfi’s “Hidden Figures” for Fox 2000, reports Deadline Hollywood. The film is based on the story of a group of African-American female mathematics geniuses that worked with NASA during the space race. It stars Octavia Spencer, […]
How a new Filipino studio could add authentic flavor to ‘Assassin’s Creed,’ ‘Far Cry’
Worldwide studio network and video game publishing giant Ubisoft is opening a new studio in the Philippines. Could the addition of a second South East Asian team improve Filipino representation in video games, just as Ubisoft Singapore designed a locally inspired high-rise for another Ubisoft game? So far, Filipino characters and locations have been most […]
Finally, a $15 an hour wage and paid sick leave for IHSS providers
BY UDWA BLOG This blog post originally appeared on udwa.org. All across this state – from the streets of San Diego to the legislative chambers of Sacramento – home care workers have made our voices heard! For the past year we have rallied and marched alongside thousands of underpaid workers to make one thing clear: […]
Democrats Court Fil-Am, AAPI Voters
By Nimfa U. Rueda LOS ANGELES – As the race for the White House heats up, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) continues to tap better ways to reach Filipino-American and other Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) voters. DNC Chief Executive Officer Amy Dacey told reporters yesterday (Wednesday in Manila) they have expanded their grassroots outreach […]
FBI hacks attacker’s iPhone, drops Apple suit
By Jocelyne Zablit Los Angeles, United States | AFP | – The FBI has unlocked the iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino attackers, officials said Monday, ending a heated legal standoff with Apple that had pitted US authorities against Silicon Valley. Apple, backed by a broad coalition of technology giants like Google and Facebook, was fiercely […]
No guns allowed at GOP convention: Secret Service
Washington, United States | AFP | – No guns will be allowed into the Republican National Convention, the Secret Service said Monday, refusing to bow to pressure after nearly 50,000 people signed a petition urging a no-firearms policy be overturned. Firearms will not be allowed inside the Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, where the event—which could descend into a […]
Finally, a $15 an hour wage and paid sick leave for IHSS providers
BY UDWA BLOG This blog post originally appeared on udwa.org. All across this state – from the streets of San Diego to the legislative chambers of Sacramento – home care workers have made our voices heard! For the past year we have rallied and marched alongside thousands of underpaid workers to make one thing clear: […]
Bonta, supporters call for accurate data collection to address health, education challenges for all API subgroups
(Sacramento, CA) – Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland), author of AB 1726, the Accounting for Health and Education in Asian Pacific Islander Demographics Act (the AHEAD Act), issued the following statement after holding press conferences in Oakland and Sacramento to call for accurate data collection for all API subgroups. “Good data drives good policy,” Bonta explained. “One way […]
Obama’s tango partner dances to lofty record
An Argentine tango dancer who made headlines for a sultry dance with US President Barack Obama has set a Guinness world record for tangoing on a platform suspended 60 meters (200 feet) in the air. Perched at eye level with the downtown Buenos Aires skyline, Mora Godoy took a whirl on a platform hanging mid-air […]
Major League Baseball welcomes mobile technology with Apple
The American Baseball league has struck a deal with Apple, providing iPad tablets and devices to teams and coaches to facilitate and develop in-game tactics. The tech giant’s devices will be on-hand to assist with the analysis of various game statistics, from player performance to weighing in on pitcher-versus-hitter matchups and possible outcomes as well […]
Disney releases epic new trailer for “Alice Through The Looking Glass”
The new trailer for Tim Burton’s sequel to 2010’s “Alice in Wonderland” features cast from the original film and some new faces. This summer’s upcoming 3D blockbuster reunites Johnny Depp as the notorious Mad Hatter, Anne Hathaway, Helena Bonham Carter, Michael Sheen and Mia Wasikowska as Alice. Entertainment source Deadline reveals that the sequel introduces Sacha Baron […]
European consumers catch the video streaming bug
The popularity of Over The Top (OTT) video is growing fast particularly in France and the UK. According to new data released by Parks Associates on Tuesday, over half of UK and French (55% and 51%, respectively) broadband internet households are now turning to online channels for their TV and video fix. Until now, it […]
Roxas camp shrugs off SWS mobile survey; Poe ‘overwhelmed’
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The camp of administration presidential bet Mar Roxas on Friday downplayed the results of a survey showing Senator Grace Poe as the top choice among voters after the second leg of the PiliPinas Debates 2016 last Sunday. “I think it’s a survey through mobile phones. It’s not reflective of the real score. […]
S. Korea, Japan guarded over Trump’s foreign policy plans
Seoul, South Korea | AFP | – South Korea and Japan offered muted reactions Monday to Donald Trump’s suggestion that, as president, he would withdraw troops from both countries and allow them to develop their own nuclear arsenal. There are nearly 30,000 US troops permanently stationed in South Korea and 47,000 in Japan, with little appetite for nuclear weapons […]
State confirms STD cause of Zika virus
SACRAMENTO – California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith today announced the first confirmed case of Zika virus acquired in California. This case involves transmission of Zika virus through sexual contact with a Zika-infected partner who returned from a country where Zika virus was circulating, not from […]
‘Batman v Superman’ pows box office with $170.1 mn debut
Two iconic superheroes zapped the opposition as “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” leapt to the top of the North American box office in its opening weekend with $170. 1 million, industry estimates showed Sunday. That mammoth haul made it the best March launch ever and the sixth-biggest domestic opening weekend of all-time, the industry […]
PHL puts Marcos jewel images online to teach about graft
Manila, Philippines | AFP | – Philippine authorities are staging an online exhibition of jewelry owned by late dictator Ferdinand Marcos and his family to try to educate a new generation about the corruption of that era. The postings on Facebook and Twitter by the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) come as the family tries to extend its […]
Escudero wants special detention center for youth offenders
MANILA (Mabuhay) – A separate detention facility exclusively for children and young people in conflict with the law should be constructed to better facilitate their rehabilitation, Senator Francis Escudero said Monday. In a statement, Escudero said he and running mate Senator Grace Poe plan to allocate funds for the construction of a juvenile detention center […]
Apl. deAp gets a ‘spotlight’ at CHLA
By Abner Galino POPULAR rapper Apl. deap has earned a “spotlight” at the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles (CHLA) celebrity charity wall for leading a campaign against blindness among children in the Philippines. Apl. deap, whose real name is Allan Pineda Lindo, came to the CHLA at Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles on Thursday and took […]
Newest Tesla electric will aim at middle market
By Luc Olinga New York, United States | AFP | – Tesla is set to unveil the Model 3, its long-anticipated pitch to middle class drivers and a key component in founder Elon Musk’s vision to mainstream the electric car. Tesla Motors, until now a purveyor of luxurious all-electric cars with equally luxurious price-tags, plans to sell the Model […]
US company to sell smartphone-shaped gun
Washington, United States | AFP | Monday 3/28/2016 – Americans will soon be able to buy a smartphone-shaped gun that can hold two bullets and easily slip into a pocket. The Minnesota-based company Ideal Conceal says it will sell the new weapon from mid-2016. “Ingeniously designed to resemble a smartphone, yet with one click of the safety it opens and […]
US governor rejects Georgia bill deemed anti-gay
By Jennie Matthew New York, United States | AFP | Monday 3/28/2016 – The Republican governor of Georgia on Monday rejected a “religious freedoms” bill that giant corporations, Hollywood and activists bitterly complained would infringe gay rights in the southeastern US state. It made Nathan Deal the second Republican governor this month to oppose legislation deemed to discriminate against the […]
Bomb scare forces evacuation at Ateneo
MANILA, Mar 28 (Mabuhay) – Students and employees evacuated Ateneo De Manila University (AdMU) on Monday due to a bomb scare. The Guidon, the official AdMU student publication, reported on Twitter that Of?ce for Student Services (OSS) director Cholo Mallillin ordered the evacuation at around 9 a.m. “This is not a drill. We have an […]
Learning graft in Marcos jewels
Manila, Philippines | AFP | Monday 3/28/2016 – Philippine authorities are staging an online exhibition of jewelry owned by late dictator Ferdinand Marcos and his family to try to educate a new generation about the corruption of that era. The postings on Facebook and Twitter by the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) come as the family tries to extend […]
S. Korea, Japan guarded over Trump’s foreign policy plans
Seoul, South Korea | AFP | Monday 3/28/2016 – South Korea and Japan offered muted reactions Monday to Donald Trump’s suggestion that, as president, he would withdraw troops from both countries and allow them to develop their own nuclear arsenal. There are nearly 30,000 US troops permanently stationed in South Korea and 47,000 in Japan, with little appetite for nuclear […]
Kerry says GOP campaign ‘an embarrassment’
President Barack Obama talks with Secretary of State John Kerry in the Oval Office, Nov. 1, 2013. Both US officials were supposed to go to the Philippines, but were scuttled by the shutdown and an earlier typhoon. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)President Barack Obama talks with Secretary of State John Kerry in the […]
Facebook apologizes for Safety Check glitch after Pakistan blast
San Francisco, United States | AFP | – Facebook apologized on Sunday for a bug that sent a Safety Check notification to users around the world following a deadly suicide bombing in Pakistan. Facebook users from Honolulu to Brussels and Cairo to Hong Kong were baffled by the notification, a feature that lets users signal to friends that […]
Chinese national admits hacking US defense firms
By Rob Lever Washington, United States | AFP | – A Chinese national pleaded guilty Wednesday to charges stemming from the hacking of trade secrets from US defense contractors, including plans for transport and fighter jets, officials said. Su Bin, 50, had been charged in a 2014 indictment with hacking into the computer networks of Boeing and other […]
Jealous husband hampers Donna’s acting comeback
Donna Cruz was only 21 years old and at the peak of her career when she surprised everyone by marrying Dr. Yong Larrazabal and settling down for good in his native Cebu. Now 39, Donna is making a comeback after 18 long years with a Star Music album, “Now and Forever”. Any regrets that she […]
Investors agri, manufacturing, S&T examined eyed Washington
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Secretary Virgilio De los Reyes of the Philippine Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and a panel of senior Philippine officials recently discussed the “opportunities and challenges” in Philippine agriculture, manufacturing, and science and technology, highlighting the country’s economic growth, the inclusiveness of progress, the sustainability of reforms, and the quality of the Filipino workforce. […]
Fox denounces Trump ‘sick obsession’ with journalist
New York, United States | AFP | – Fox News renewed its bitter dispute with Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump, accusing him of harboring a “sick obsession” with prominent news anchor Megyn Kelly and waging a campaign of crude verbal abuse against her. The strongly worded riposte is the latest episode in a simmering, months-long feud between the influential […]
UN condemns ‘unacceptable’ N. Korea missile tests
By Carole Landry United Nations, United States | AFP | – The UN Security Council on Friday strongly condemned North Korea over its ballistic missile launches and demanded Pyongyang to refrain from further violations of UN resolutions. Backed by China, Pyongyang’s ally, the council said in a unanimous statement that “all these launches were unacceptable” and “constituted a […]
Palace official likens presidential bets to ‘Fantastic Four’
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The four presidential candidates who faced off in the second leg of the PiliPinas Debates 2016 in Cebu City were like the “Fantastic Four,” a Malacañang official said Monday. In a media briefing, Undersecretary Manuel Quezon III of the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) likened Vice President Jejomar Binay […]
Kenan and Kel to reunite for an ‘All That’ anniversary special
1990s US comedy duo Kenan & Kel are set to reunite for a special anniversary episode of “All That” reports NME. Kenan and Kel — full names Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell — originally found fame back in the 90s on the Nickelodeon comedy show. They later went on to film the 1997 movie “Good Burger” based […]
Before ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’ hits the big screen, catch up on the main trailers
With “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” rolling out the week of March 25, we sift through six of the superhero film’s biggest trailers; the adventurous can see if they can correctly piece together the film’s true plot, despite Warner Bros’ apparent trailer-cutting cleverness. Official Teaser Trailer – April 17, 2015 Who is Superman – […]
Emma Stone To Play Kennedy Sister In Upcoming Film
Oscar-nominated actress Emma Stone has been tapped to star in “Letters to Rosemary” – a film based on the final days of John F. Kennedy’s sister. According to Variety, Stone is set to play Rosemary Kennedy in the biopic, which will explore the life of the eldest daughter of Joseph and Rose Kennedy who suffered from […]
Bangladesh central bank ‘complicit’ in heist: minister
By Sam Jahan Dhaka, Bangladesh | AFP | – The Bangladesh finance minister has accused central bank officials of being complicit in an audacious $81 million theft from an overseas account, in an interview with a leading Bengali newspaper published Friday. Hackers stole the money from the Bangladesh Bank’s account with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on […]
UN agency: SC ruling on Poe a victory for foundlings, stateless
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in the Philippines has welcomed the Supreme Court’s (SC) landmark ruling “favoring foundlings as citizens,” referring to the high tribunal’s decision to allow Sen. Grace Poe to run for president in the May polls. UNHCR country representative Bernard Kerblat highlighted that the Philippines has […]
Michelin launching guide in Seoul signals rise of neo-Korean cuisine
News that Michelin will be launching its first hotel and restaurant guide for Seoul is the latest sign pointing to the city’s burgeoning fine dining scene and rise of neo-Korean cuisine. In a few weeks, the bustling South Korean capital will be crawling with anonymous Michelin inspectors, who possess the power to pronounce which restaurants […]
Mitt Romney to vote for Trump rival Cruz in primary
Washington, United States | AFP | – Mitt Romney, the 2012 Republican nominee for the White House, said Friday he will vote for Ted Cruz in next week’s Utah primary, all but endorsing the arch-conservative senator as he seeks to derail Donald Trump’s nomination bid. Romney, who has led the charge among party elites to prevent the celebrity billionaire […]
Commission asks next President to take bold steps to combat climate change
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) wants those running for office in the May elections, especially presidential aspirants, to include in their agenda steps to combat climate change and its far-reaching effects on food security, health, livelihood, and poverty. Vice chairperson of the CCC, Secretary Emmanuel de Guzman, said on Saturday that environmental […]
‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ big winner at the Empire Awards
Empire magazine hosted its annual awards ceremony in London last night, with “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” the night’s big winner. The most recent “Star Wars” installment picked up five prizes in total, including Best Newcomer Awards for John Boyega and Daisy Ridley, and Best Director for JJ Abrams. “Mad Max: Fury Road” wasn’t far behind […]
Margot Robbie tipped to play discgraced ice skater Tonya Harding in biopic
Actress Margot Robbie has reportedly signed on play disgraced Olympic figure skater Tonya Harding in a movie which will explore her connection to the infamous 1994 attack on skating rival Nancy Kerrigan. The script for the film, titled “I, Tonya”, was penned by Steven Rogers – also responsible for “Kate & Leopold” and “Love the Coopers” – […]
Give Mother Earth a break, switch off power for one hour, says Climate Change Commission
MANILA, Mar 18 (Mabuhay) — Even Mother Earth needs some time off. Climate Change Commission Secretary Emmanuel de Guzman made the statement as he appealed to the country to observe on Saturday (March 19) between 8:30 pm and 9:30 pm the annual Earth Hour awareness campaign celebrated across the globe. “Nature has been working hard […]
AMLC chair eyes easing of bank secrecy law
MANILA, Mar 18 (Mabuhay) — The country’s “very strict” bank secrecy law is hampering prevention of money laundering, such as the first ever cross-border entry of dirty money that found its way into the Philippine financial system and casinos, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando M. Tetangco Jr. said Friday. Tetangco, who also chairs […]
2nd Lakambini Ng Kalayaan Cultural Pageant calls for participants
Los Angeles – The Lakambini Ng Kalayaan 2016 is back in its full glory. And organizers of The Lakambini Ng Kalayaan 2016 are calling for participants to join the cultural pageant of community organizations that will take place on June 3 in Los Angeles. The winner of The Lakambini Ng Kalayaan will be the muse of the […]
PHL advances China sea dispute, other issues with US lawmakers
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Philippine Government officials engaged US legislators on 15-16 March 2016 to mobilize Congressional support for key Philippine advocacies in the United States. On 15 March, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. and Acting Secretary of Justice Emmanuel L. Caparas led the Philippine delegation in separate meetings with Senator […]
Poe sees repeat of ‘Hello Garci’ if Comelec reverts to manual polls
MANILA (Mabuhay) — STA. ROSA, Laguna—Senator Grace Poe has expressed fear that the alleged massive cheating that occurred during the 2004 elections will happen again if the Commission on Elections (Comelec) postpones the May 9 elections or revert to manual voting. Poe on Tuesday dismissed the Comelec’s suggestion for a “po-el” or postponement of elections […]
Entry-level iPhone and new iPad expected at Apple keynote, March 21
Tim Cook and Apple have summoned the press to another keynote on Monday, March 21, 2016. These Apple events see the American manufacturer unveil new products and innovations, with an entry-level iPhone and a new iPad expected at the upcoming edition. A new 4-inch iPhone? The main announcement at the March keynote is expected to be […]
Pope to join Bieber and co. on Instagram
Pope Francis will make his Instagram debut on Saturday, joining the likes of Justin Bieber and Cristiano Ronaldo on the image-sharing forum under the handle Franciscus, the Vatican confirmed Wednesday. The date for the pontiff’s debut on the celebrity-dominated social medium was chosen by the 79-year-old himself as it marks the third anniversary of his […]
Foster, Clooney, Roberts thriller ‘Money Monster’ set for Cannes
The Julia Roberts and George Clooney thriller, “Money Monster,” directed by Jodie Foster, is to be shown at the 2016 Cannes International Film Festival in May. Clooney plays Lee Gates, the host of a talk show specializing in stock market matters, and Roberts is his producer, Patty Fenn. After one of Gates’ recommended purchases turns […]
Trump spurs Latinos to citizenship so they can vote – against him
By Sara Puig Los Angeles, United States | AFP | – Frontrunner Donald Trump has pledged to deport and keep out illegal immigrants, but the brash billionaire’s rhetoric is inspiring some Hispanics to become citizens so they can vote against him. “I feel threatened by the political situation,” said Maria Orozco, a 36-year-old screenwriter in Los Angeles. She […]
SC grants Gloria Arroyo three-day birthday furlough
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Supreme Court has granted a request from former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to have a birthday furlough next month. At a press briefing, SC spokesman Theodore Te said the furlough will be from April 4 to 6. Mrs. Arroyo had originally asked that she be allowed to leave the hospital for five […]
Al Gore in surprise visit to Tacloban – Haiyan ground zero
Tacloban, Philippines | AFP | – Climate change activist and former US vice president Al Gore made a surprise visit Saturday to an impoverished Philippine city ravaged by one of the strongest storms on record. The Nobel Peace Prize winner lit candles at a mass grave in Tacloban for thousands killed by Super Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, a picture […]
Spielberg, Ford on for fifth “Indiana Jones”
Franchise mainstays Steven Spielberg and Harrison Ford will once again reprise their respective roles behind and in front of camera in a fifth “Indiana Jones” film set for July 2019. Lucasfilm owner Disney made the announcement on March 15, 2016, setting a release date of July 19, 2019 for the continuation of what will by […]
Jennifer Beals signs up to ‘Taken’
Jennifer Beals is the latest star to join the cast of the TV remake of “Taken”. The actress will play the part of Christina Hart, the Special Deputy Director of National Intelligence in the NBC prequel to the popular movie franchise, Deadline reports. Beals will be joined on screen by Clive Standen, who will take on the […]
3rd Traditional Holy Week Pabasa in Historic Filipinotown March 24-25
Los Angeles – The FILAM International-USA, The Philippine Institute of Language, Arts and Culture (PILAC) and the Filipino American Service Group Inc (FASGI) cordially invite everyone to the 3rd Year of “The Pabasa” – the Filipino cultural tradition of reading The Holy Bible Reading by singing in Pilipino during the Holy Week. The Pabasa (Bible Reading […]
US police investigating if Trump ‘incited riot’
Miami, United States | AFP | – North Carolina authorities said Monday they are looking into whether Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump incited a riot at a rally where a black protester was punched in the face by a supporter. It comes after a weekend of violent clashes and protests at Trump events and ahead of “Super Tuesday 2,” […]
Valenzuela Mayor Gatchalian, 7 others face graft raps over Kentex fire
MANILA, Mar 15 (Mabuhay) — The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the filing of graft charges against Valenzuela City Mayor Rex Gatchalian and seven other individuals in connection with the fire that hit Kentex footwear factory in May 2015 and left 74 people dead. In a joint resolution recently signed by Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales, […]
Election postponement can give voters more time to reflect on choices — lawyer
MANILA, Mar 15 (Mabuhay) — Amid opposition on the possibility of the postponement of elections, an election lawyer on Tuesday said the window of time that will result in moving the date of the polls may have positive effects. In a statement, lawyer Romulo Macalintal said the period between May 9, the schedule of this […]
Sen. Guingona wants casinos covered by anti-money laundering law
MANILA, Mar 15 (Mabuhay) — Hours before the Senate blue ribbon panel starts probing into the $81 million money laundering scheme involving Philippine entities, panel chairman Senator Teofisto Guingona III said the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001 has had its share of loopholes. “‘Yung casinos dapat mapailalim sa batas,” the senator said. The $81 million […]
Barbie, no warts and all, comes to Paris
For decades, Barbie has encouraged girls to reach for the stars, showing them through her endless reinventions that anything is possible. Now the girl who beat Neil Armstrong to the Moon has brought a lifetime of fine outfits and accessories to Paris to show them off to the world at the city’s Musee des Arts […]
In wake of Grace Poe ruling, PNoy wants SC to clarify rules on citizenship
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Supreme Court (SC) justices ought to clarify Philippine laws on citizenship, President Benigno Aquino III said Wednesday, following the 9-6 vote of the tribunal allowing presidential candidate Senator Grace Poe to run in the May presidential race. Aquino said he also wanted an explanation of how Poe reacquired her Filipino citizenship since […]
Jonalyn Viray is now a Kapamilya
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Jonalyn Viray is now a Kapamilya, with the singer changing her screen name to Jona. Her first project is to interpret the theme song of the upcoming ABS-CBN series “We Will Survive”, which started last February 29 before “TV Patrol”. The soap stars Melai Cantiveros and Pokwang. “Siyempre very happy at kinakabahan […]
Japanese women still face 100 day wait to remarry
Japanese women still face a 100 day wait before they can remarry following legal changes approved Tuesday by the country’s cabinet, a move condemned as discriminatory by a UN rights group. The approval, from conservative Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s administration on International Women’s Day, came after Japan’s Supreme Court ruled in December that the six-month […]
Philippines impounds North Korean freighter based on latest resolution of United Nations
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The government said it impounded the North Korean freighter Jin Teng being in Subic Bay Freeport based on sanction imposed by the United Nations after it carried out nuclear and ballistic missile tests. Quoting an update reports from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Undersecretary Manuel Quezon III said the Philippines has an […]
Palace affirms military assessment on presence of ISIS in PHL
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Malacanang said it is standing by the statement of the Armed Forces of the Philippines that there is no presence of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Mindanao despite the recent flare up of violence in the region in previous weeks. There were reports quoting security analysts mentioning about growing […]
New comedy coming from Jennifer Aniston and Jason Batemen
Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman have teamed up to develop a comedy about a couple in which the wife is a high-powered business woman and Bateman plays a stay-at-home husband. Bateman will star, direct and produce the film titled “Significant Other” while Aniston will also star and executive produce, according to The Hollywood Reporter. In the […]
USCIS announces $10-M citizenship and integration grant opportunities
WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now accepting applications for two funding opportunities under the Citizenship and Integration Grant Program. These are competitive grant opportunities for organizations that prepare permanent residents for naturalization and promote civic integration through increased knowledge of English, U.S. history and civics. The two programs will provide up to $10 million in […]
California renews fight against big tobacco with historic regulations
(Sacramento, CA) – Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland) today presented on the Assembly floor one bill in a sweeping package to reduce smoking and fight tobacco-related diseases. SBX2 5, authored by Senator Mark Leno, bolsters public health protections by regulating e-cigarettes under the same laws that govern other cigarettes, such as those prohibiting smoking in certain […]
New York announces record 4.29 million jobs
New York, United States | AFP | – New York announced Monday that the city’s employment figures had risen to a record 4.29 million jobs with 249,000 jobs added since progressive Democrat Bill de Blasio became mayor two years ago. The city’s unemployment rate has fallen nearly three percent since de Blasio took office in January 2014, confounding initial […]
Colombia reports more than 47,700 Zika cases
Colombia has seen more than 47,700 cases of Zika, including thousands of pregnant women infected with the mosquito-borne virus, the country’s National Health Institute reported Saturday. A total of 8,890 pregnant women have come down with the disease, which has been tentatively linked to a serious birth defect known as microcephaly affecting babies born to […]
Pilot shortage hits US regional airlines
By Luc Olinga New York, United States | AFP | – Mid-sized and regional airlines in the US are suffering from a pilot shortage that could threaten the health of the broader US aviation industry. Some regional carriers have trimmed about five percent of their flights, cuts that have hit smaller airports, such as in Redding, California, or Erie, […]
Escudero: Aquino should have focused on fair polls instead of campaign
SAMBOAN, Cebu (Mabuhay) – Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Saturday said President Aquino should not have endorsed any candidate in the May elections to show that the polls will indeed be fair. “Nalungkot ako ng bahagya nung nagpasya si Pangulong Aquino na mag-endorso ng kandidato (I was slightly saddened by the decision of President Aquino […]
S. Korea and Singapore nab top spot in world’s best airport ranking
Asia can claim bragging rights to being home to the world’s best airports, with South Korea, Singapore, and China taking the top three spots in a new airport ranking. Results of the 2015 Airport Service Quality Awards suggest that flyers passing through the major hubs in Asia are more likely to be satisfied with their […]
Full tracklist of Zayn Malik album revealed
Zayn Malik has released the tracklist for his upcoming album “Mind of Mine.” The former One Direction member released the tracks from his debut as a solo artist on Twitter. His first single “Pillowtalk” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album drops March 25. Here’s the final tracklist, with its creative spelling […]
Asia’s tuk-tuks providing a wheel boost to Africa
Omnipresent on the chaotic streets of Mumbai, Jakarta and Bangkok, Asia’s three-wheeled “tuk-tuk” has now come to Africa — and with a two-fold bonus: providing much-needed jobs and slashing accidents. Cheap to run and safer than the traditional motorcycle taxi, the auto-rickshaw is an increasingly common sight trundling along the traffic-choked streets of the continent’s […]
Film adaptation of ‘Downton Abbey’ possibility: producer
While the British period drama “Downton Abbey” may have come to an end, there’s already talk that the series could come back to life on the big screen. The final episode of the wildly popular series aired Sunday in the US, wrapping up the story lines of different members of the Crawley household after six […]
Isabella Rossellini returns to Lancôme
Isabella Rossellini has landed a new role as the latest muse for the beauty house Lancôme. The Italian actress, director and style icon is teaming up with the French cosmetics brand on a mission to “spread the brand’s particular vision of femininity to the four corners of the earth”. The news marks the second act […]
N. Korea threatens nuclear strikes over South-US military drills
By Hwang Sung-Hee Seoul, South Korea | AFP | Monday 3/7/2016 – North Korea threatened pre-emptive and “indiscriminate” nuclear strikes against South Korea and the United States on Monday, as the two allies kicked off their annual, large-scale military exercises. The drills always raise tensions on the divided Korean peninsula and the situation is particularly volatile this year, given the […]
Poe to SC: Allow people to choose next president
MANILA, Mar 7 (Mabuhay) – Senator Grace Poe expressed hope on Monday that the Supreme Court would allow the people to choose their next leader. “Sa ating mga kababayan, kami po ay patuloy na nananalangin at kumpiyansa sapagkat sa mga narinig natin doon sa Supreme Court justice mismo—Chief Justice—ang sabi niya ang mga Pilipino, mga […]
First case of Zika virus detected in PHL since 2012
Manila, Philippines | AFP | – An American woman was infected with the Zika virus while visiting the Philippines, health department officials said Sunday, the first case detected in the country for several years. Health Secretary Janette Garin said the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US-CDC) had informed her that a US resident who stayed in the […]
BlackBerry Priv now available
BlackBerry Priv is now available for purchase on the Verizon online store. The Priv is BlackBerry’s first Android device, which has a total storage capacity of 160 GB. The company also has plans for additional devices in the future. The handset is selling for a full retail price of $720. It can also be purchased in […]
Trump triumph leaves Republican party in disarray
By Jim Mannion Washington, United States | AFP | – Donald Trump’s triumphal march toward the Republican presidential nomination left his party in disarray Wednesday, as Democrats coalesced around their White House frontrunner Hillary Clinton after her slew of Super Tuesday victories. Both candidates emerged the clear winners on Tuesday after several party nominating contests, […]
Labor groups ask SC’s help to standardize wages in PHL regardless of location
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Supreme Court on Thursday has been asked to order the standardization of a national minimum wage all over the Philippines. In a 28-page plea, the petitioners that included several labor groups and former Akbayan Rep. Walden Bello asked the high court to nullify, abolish, repeal and strike down as unconstitutional Republic […]
‘We don’t want your dirty money’, pope tells patrons
Vatican City, Holy See | AFP | – Pope Francis Wednesday issued a stinging rebuke to rich patrons who offer the Church dirty money gained through exploitation, telling them to take back their cheques and burn them. “I think of some benefactors of the Church that say ‘take this offer for the Church’, and it […]
DHS launches pilot program on hiring alien workers
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced the launch of a Known Employer pilot to assess a new process for employers seeking to hire certain workers through employment-based visa categories. By modifying the process U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) uses to reviews an employer’s eligibility to sponsor individuals under certain employment-based […]
Two L.A. City Controller reports show budget shortfall, pension liabilities
LOS ANGELES – Controller Ron Galperin released two reports detailing the state of the City’s finances: The Financial Forecast Report, in which analysts in the Controller’s office make financial projections for the current and coming year; and the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), itemizing the City’s revenues, expenditures, assets and liabilities for fiscal year 2014-15 […]
PHL probes attack on IS-targeted top Saudi cleric
By Joel Guinto Zamboanga, Philippines | AFP | – Philippine authorities were on Wednesday probing an assassination attempt against an influential Saudi preacher who was on an Islamic State hit list, after the gunman was killed and two suspects arrested. Preacher Sheikh Aaidh al-Qarni and Saudi diplomat Sheikh Turki Assaegh were both wounded in a […]
Mexico won’t pay for Trump’s ‘terrible’ wall: minister
Mexico City, Mexico | AFP | – Mexico will under no circumstances pay for the border wall that US presidential candidate Donald Trump has proposed building to stop illegal immigration, the Mexican finance minister said. “Let me say this emphatically and categorically: under no circumstances is Mexico going to pay for the wall that Mr Trump is proposing,” Finance […]
World Book Day – Nanie Guanlao and his free library in Manila
In the Makati district of Manila in the Philippines, there’s a large sign outside the front of an otherwise unassuming house stating “free reading to the public”. Over the last fifteen years, Ernando ‘Nanie’ Guanlao has transformed his home into a library, open to anyone and everyone. Starting with only 100 books, the 63 year-old former accountant has […]
JK Rowling working on ‘Fantastic Beasts’ trilogy
JK Rowling has confirmed on her Twitter account that she is working on a trilogy of “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” films. The three films are a spin-off of her “Harry Potter” series. The “Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them” trilogy is set in New York City and takes place 70 years […]
Filipino community in Metro DC remembers EDSA in Embassy ‘Talakayan’
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Members of the Filipino community in the Metro DC area swapped stories and insights into the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution in a Talakayan held on 29 February 2016 at the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy. The Talakayan was jointly organized by the Embassy and the Philippine Arts, Letters and Media Council (PALM) to commemorate the […]
Obamas to headline South by Southwest festival
US President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama were announced Wednesday as headliners of South by Southwest, the celebrated showcase of cutting-edge technology and music. Obama will be the first sitting president to appear at the closely watched annual conference in Austin, Texas, famous for providing early exposure to platforms such as Twitter, Foursquare […]
Production of ‘The Dark Tower’ begins
Production on the film version of Stephen King’s “The Dark Tower” has begun, reports Entertainment Weekly. The movie version of King’s eight-novel series has been in the works for some years now. Actors Idris Elba and Mathew McConaughey have been confirmed as having lead roles in the movie by writer Stephen King on hisTwitter account. […]
Boyzone and Westlife members join forces to create new boyband Boyzlife
Boyzone’s Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden of Westlife are set to join forces to create new boyband Boyzlife reports The Sun. The duo will tour the UK as Boyzlife later this year, and could see other members of Boyzone and Westlife joining them in the future, “We all had a chat, the lads. We said it […]
Nicole Scherzinger confirmed to join the cast of ABC’s ‘Dirty Dancing’
Nicole Scherzinger is set to join the cast of ABC/Lionsgate TV’s remake of “Dirty Dancing,” reports Deadline. Scherzinger will star as Penny, the dance partner of talented instructor Johnny in ABC’s three-hour “Dirty Dancing” remake. Johnny is set to be played by Cole Prattes in a role originally made famous by Patrick Swayze in the 1987 film. […]
China to secure ‘de facto’ control of S. China Sea: US admiral
By Thomas Watkins Washington, United States | AFP | – China is on its way to securing “de facto” control of the South China Sea, a top US admiral warned Thursday, amid growing unease over Beijing’s continued military build up in the contested waterway. By building air bases and hardened bunkers on tiny islands, some of which are reclaimed […]
Historic MCO Tax vote keeps health care promise to California
(SACRAMENTO, CA)- Today, Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland), Chair of the Assembly Public Health and Developmental Services Committee and Co-Chair of the Conference Committee in the Second Extraordinary Session, spoke in support of ABX2 1 and SBX2 2, which both passed the legislature today and moved on to the Governor’s desk. “Today’s vote was the result […]
SBA economic injury disaster loans available to small businesses
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Small, nonfarm businesses in all 58 California counties and neighboring Arizona, Nevada and Oregon counties listed below are now eligible to apply for low‑interest federal disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). These loans offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by the drought that began January 1, 2016, announced […]
Oscars draws eight-year low US TV audience
The ABC TV network said Monday 34. 34.3 million Americans watched the 2016 Oscars, the lowest ratings in eight years for the glitzy culmination to Hollywood’s annual awards season. Despite headlines generated by a race row embroiling the 88th Academy Awards, the audience was six percent down on last year’s 36.6 million in the same […]
Sneaker label Vans celebrate their 50th Anniversary with music concerts around the world
Sneaker label Vans have announced that they are to celebrate their 50th anniversary with a series of music concerts around the world, with acts such as Wu Tang Clan, Erykah Badu, Nas, and Jamie XX all taking part. The events will take place later this month between March 16 and 19. A full list of acts and […]
Nervous Adele kicks off world tour in Belfast
Adele has kicked off her first world tour in four years with a concert in Belfast that received overwhelmingly positive reviews despite the bestselling singer’s bout of pre-gig nerves. The show in Northern Ireland’s main city late on Monday was sold out months in advance and fans came from as far as Japan and South […]
Californians save 1.1-M acre-feet of water
Residents urged to stay focused on conservation SACRAMENTO – For the first time since June, California just missed Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr.’s 25 percent water conservation mandate in January, as urban water suppliers reported a cumulative savings of 24.8 percent for the eight months since mandatory conservation began. With more than 1.1 million acre-feet […]
Palace tells judiciary: Speed up cases of media killings
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Saturday urged the judiciary to speed up the resolution of cases involving the killing of journalists in light of the call of a United Nations body for the Philippine government to probe the recent killing of a radio reporter in Mindanao. “There have been many instances when we have all […]
US presses China on non-militarization in West PHL Sea
Washington, United States | AFP | – The White House pressed Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday to expand his non-militarization pledge to cover the entire South China Sea, despite Beijing’s recent military activity in the area. Daniel Kritenbrink, senior director for Asian affairs at the National Security Council, spoke amid rising tensions between the two countries over China’s […]
Piolo recalls meeting with Meryl Streep
Actor Piolo Pascual shared his experience meeting Oscar-winning actress Meryl Streep at the recently concluded Berlin International Film Festival. His movie with John Lloyd Cruz, “Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis” directed by Lav Diaz, won the Silver Bear in the 2016 festival, where Streep is a jury member. Aside from their meeting on the red carpet […]
Xian Lim wants superhero role
After the success of his latest movie with Vilma Santos and Angel Locsin, “Everything About Her”, Xian Lim said there are still many other roles that he wants to portray. He said, for one, that he has always wanted to play a superhero role. “Isang napakalaking opo,” he said. “Isa po ‘yan sa mga pangarap […]
PHL economic transformation to headline business and investment forum in NY
WASHINGTON, D.C.— The Philippines’ economic transformation due largely to good governance reforms will be the central theme of the Philippine Business and Investment Forum (PBIF) to be held on 03 March 2016 at the Metropolitan Ballroom of the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel in New York City. With growth rates of 7-10% possible in the next decade and […]
Bonta authors plan to end child poverty
Bill to identify, prevent, and heal childhood trauma receives strong support from CDF (Sacramento, CA) – At the State Capitol, the Children’s Defense Fund of California (CDF) released its 2016 plan to end child poverty, ensure educational equity, provide access to health care, and transform justice systems for youth. Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland) authored a […]
‘Spotlight’ takes home best picture Oscar
“Spotlight,” a searing portrait of The Boston Globe’s investigation into child sex abuse in the Catholic Church, won a surprise Oscar for best picture on Sunday at the 88th Academy Awards. The movie, which has picked up a string of honors on its way to Oscars glory, beat rivals “The Big Short,” “Bridge of Spies,” […]
DiCaprio wins best actor Oscar for ‘The Revenant’
Hollywood A-lister Leonardo DiCaprio finally bagged Oscars gold on Sunday for his grueling star turn in “The Revenant,” 22 years after his first Academy Award nomination. DiCaprio edged out Bryan Cranston (“Trumbo”), Matt Damon (“The Martian”), Michael Fassbender (“Steve Jobs”) and Eddie Redmayne (“The Danish Girl”) to take the best actor statuette. DiCaprio won a […]
‘Fifty Shades’ dishonored at anti-Oscar Razzie awards
Erotic drama “Fifty Shades of Grey” triumphed Saturday at Hollywood’s hall of shame, the annual Razzies anti-awards show. The steamy romance — described as a “warped, disturbingly abusive adult fairy tale” by movie website The Film Stage — took the Golden Raspberry Award for joint worst picture alongside superhero flick “Fantastic Four.” The big screen […]
Six key gadgets and trends at Mobile World Congress
The Mobile World Congress, the sector’s biggest trade fair which wrapped up in Barcelona on Thursday, was dominated this year by the arrival of virtual reality, advances in the development of ultra-fast 5G networks and connected objects. ROBOT-TELEPHONE THAT READS YOUR MESSAGES: Japanese firm Sharp presented a tiny prototype robot called RoBoHon that doubles as […]
The Oscars voters: thousands of white men… and a nun?
The question of who votes for the Oscar nominations and awards used to be shrouded in secrecy, but the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has recently opened up about the process. This is a rundown of who gets a say, how they cast their ballots and how the prizes to be handed out […]
Towing co-owner indicted for bribing City Council member to secure tow fee increase
LOS ANGELES – The co-owner of a towing business was named in a federal grand jury indictment returned today that charges him with paying a bribe to a member of the Huntington Park City Council in an attempt to obtain support for a proposed fee increase for towing and vehicle storage. Sukhbir Singh, 39, and his […]
Palace: Poll proves Filipinos cherish democracy
MANILA, Feb 26 (Mabuhay) – The latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showing 76 percent of Filipinos satisfied with the way democracy works validates how people appreciate the fruits of the People Power Revolution 30 years ago. “Such overwhelming approval shows the Filipinos’ deep appreciation for democracy as a way of life,” Presidential Communications Secretary […]
Poe says she last used US passport in 2010, Luna says in 2011
MANILA, Feb 26 (Mabuhay) – The camp of Sen. Grace Poe on Friday insisted that she last used her US passport before she renounced her American citizenship. This was the statement issued by her legal counsel George Erwin Garcia, clarifying that her client’s case could not be compared with that of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte […]
US performs its first uterus transplant
The United States has completed its first uterus transplant surgery, following on a technique already proven in Sweden that could help women suffering from infertility, the Cleveland Clinic said Thursday. The nine-hour surgery took place on February 24, and the 26-year-old patient — whose identity was not revealed — was in stable condition, the hospital […]
File formal complaints vs. campaign violators: Comelec chief
MANILA, Feb 26 (Mabuhay) – While using social media as an instrument to gather reports of campaign violations, the Commission on Elections said complainants should file formal complaints if they have sufficient evidence against any candidate. According to Comelec chair Andres Bautista, the poll body does monitor social media complaints—particularly those addressed to the Comelec’s […]
Affleck linked with ‘Batman v Superman’ script
Not just an actor, nor merely a director, it’s now being suggested that Oscar-winning writer Ben Affleck was involved in shaping the final screenplay for “Batman v Superman.” It might be easy to forget — some would say convenient to do so — that Ben Affleck in fact won his first Oscar for co-writing “Good […]
‘Bamboo Flowers’ charms US audiences at 8TH Bridges to the World Film Fest
Washington, D.C. – “Bamboo Flowers,” a critically acclaimed film by multi-awarded director Maryo J. delos Reyes, charmed audiences during the 8th Bridges to the World Film Festival held at six separate venues in Maryland. The Bridges to the World Film Festival is an annual flagship event organized by the World Artists Experiences (WAE), a non-profit organization […]
Ultimate Heartthrobs Piolo & Sam with ‘Pokwang’ & Darren Live at Pechanga in March
Two of the most sought after young Filipino actors, both on screen, cinema and singing sensation, Piolo Pascual and Sam Milby – along with comedian extraordinaire, ‘Pokwang’ and budding male actor Darren Espanto, in one of a kind performance ever will lead the pack of performers live at Pechanga Resort & Casino on March 26 at 8p.m. and March 27 at 5pm. Pechanga Resort & Casino […]
Adele, Bieber set for Brit Awards with Bowie tribute
The British music industry gathers for the annual Brit Awards on Wednesday, with performances by Adele, Rihanna, Coldplay and Justin Bieber and an all-star tribute to late rock star David Bowie. Pop superstar Adele is up for four awards, including in the best solo female artist category, in which soul singer Amy Winehouse is also […]
Majority of Americans back FBI in battle with Apple
Washington, United States | AFP – A majority of Americans support the US government’s efforts to force Apple to help unlock an iPhone in the probe of last year’s deadly San Bernardino attacks, a poll showed Monday. The Pew Research Center survey found 51 percent of respondents supported the effort to require Apple to help unlock the iPhone, […]
Women ‘left their kitchens’ to back me, White House candidate says
Washington, United States | AFP | – US Republican presidential candidate John Kasich said Monday that women “left their kitchens” to support him in a 1978 Ohio state senate race, triggering pushback from voters and rivals. “How did I get elected?” Kasich asked rhetorically during a campaign event in Virginia. “Nobody was – I didn’t have anybody for me. […]
Demi Moore set to make a TV comeback
Demi Moore is set to return to TV with a role in the new series “10 Days in the Valley.” The Hollywood star will play the role of Jane Sadler, a single mother whose 5-year-old child goes missing in the night, Deadlinereports. The series, written by writer-producer Tassie Cameron, is being made by Skydance Television and […]
Scarlett Johansson narrates ‘Alice in Wonderland’ audio book
Scarlett Johansson has lent her voice to an audio version of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”. The Hollywood star teamed up with Audible.com and her sister, narrator and director of the project, Vanessa Johansson, on the audiobook. “Having grown up loving the story of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and reading many books aloud with […]
Nearly half of Filipinos expect clean, credible polls: Pulse Asia
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Nearly half of Filipinos, who are registered voters, are expecting clean and credible automated elections in May, based on the latest Pulse Asia survey. Pulse Asia said that 48 percent of its 1,800 respondents (registered voters), agreed to the statement: “The May 2016 elections will be clean and the results credible for […]
PHL church defends Pacquiao on gay slur
Manila, Philippines | AFP | – The Philippine Catholic church on Sunday defended boxing hero Manny Pacquiao for his opposition to gay marriage, saying he was only quoting the Bible. But Father Jerome Secillano also said over radio station DZMM that Pacquiao should respect homosexuals and not judge and condemn them after the eight-division world champion last week described […]
Vietnam decries Chinese missile deployment on island
Hanoi, Vietnam | AFP – Vietnam on Friday hit out at China’s deployment of missiles on a disputed island chain, saying Beijing had “seriously violated” its sovereignty as international censure mounted over the apparent militarisation of the hotly-contested zone. Chinese state media on Thursday confirmed the presence of unspecified weapons on Woody Island, part of the Paracels chain. […]
Transgender female model lands industry’s first magazine cover
After making fashion history to become the first transgender model to get a Vogue spread, Andreja Pejic now holds bragging rights to becoming the first transgender model to land a fashion magazine cover with Marie Claire Spain. Pejic graces the March cover of Marie Claire Spain, in a knit slip dress that shows off her […]
Disney details more ‘Star Wars’ Land features
A new “Star Wars”-themed land, being prepared for Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World in Florida, was teased with some extra information during TV retrospective “The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60,” which aired Sunday night. The new theme park attraction is being modeled after a “remote, outpost planet” where it will be possible […]
Pacquiao can’t be DQ’d over megabout — law expert
MANILA (Mabuhay) — An election lawyer believes world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao cannot be disqualified from running in the May senatorial race on the grounds of his upcoming megabout with Timothy Bradley. Atty. Romulo Macalintal countered the claim of senatorial hopeful Walden Bello that Pacquiao will exceed the allowed airtime of candidates if he pursues […]
PWDs hope PNoy won’t veto bill on VAT exemption, discounts
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The country’s persons with disabilities are hoping that the so-called Malasakit Bill will not go the way of the P2,000 SSS pension hike that President Benigno Aquino III vetoed in January. The bill already approved by both houses of Congress provides for, among others, exempts PWDs from paying value added tax on […]
Honasan: Marcos better president than Cory
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Vice presidential candidate Sen. Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan said the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos Sr. is the better president than the late Corazon Aquino. Asked who is the better president between the two, Honasan briefly answered: “Marcos.” However, Honasan clarified said that he was comparing the first six years of the administration of […]
PHL preparing to auction off Marcos jewels
Manila, Philippines | AFP | – Philippine authorities pledged Monday to auction off as soon as possible millions of dollars’ worth of jewellery recovered from late dictator Ferdinand Marcos and his family. The Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG), created to recover the millions stolen by Marcos and his allies, has also launched a website aimed at retrieving hundreds […]
Dungeness crab health advisory lifted along Central California coast
SACRAMENTO – The health advisory regarding Dungeness crabs caught along the coast has been lifted from state waters in all areas south of Latitude 38° 00’ N, nearPoint Reyes. California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith lifted this advisory today due to recent tests showing that traces of domoic […]
John Paul II had ‘intense’ friendship with married woman: BBC
By James Pheby London, United Kingdom | AFP | – Pope John Paul II had a close relationship with a married woman which lasted over 30 years according to letters which feature in a documentary being shown by the BBC on Monday. The documentary does not claim he broke his vow of celibacy with Polish-born philosopher and writer Anna-Teresa […]
Chiz hopeful of favorable SC ruling for Poe in March
PANGASINAN—Independent vice-presidential candidate Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero is looking forward to a favorable Supreme Court ruling for his presidential running mate Sen. Grace Poe as they expect the high court to hand down its decision next month. During the campaign sortie of the Partido Galing at Puso in vote-rich Pangasinan province, Escudero said the SC […]
DNA rice breakthrough raises ‘green revolution’ hopes
By Cecil Morella LOS BAÑOS, Philippines | AFP – Rice-growing techniques learned through thousands of years of trial and error are about to be turbocharged with DNA technology in a breakthrough hailed by scientists as a potential second “green revolution”. Over the next few years farmers are expected to have new genome sequencing technology at their disposal, helping […]
LA 2024 bid unveils Olympic logo, sunny slogan
Los Angeles, United States | AFP | – Los Angeles 2024 Olympic bid chiefs unveiled an official logo of an angel basking in rays of Californian sunshine on Tuesday as the city cranked up its campaign to stage the games for a third time. The brightly colored logo is accompanied by an official slogan, urging people to “Follow the […]
Cliffhanger presidential election race begins
By Karl Malakunas Manila, Philippines | AFP | − A cliffhanger race to lead the Philippines began Tuesday with emotion-charged rallies by a dead movie star’s adopted daughter, a politician who brags about killing criminals and other top contenders. The three-month election campaign got under way with four aspirants standing a genuine chance of succeeding popular President Benigno Aquino, […]
Center seeks more space to save monkey-eating Philippine eagle
Manila, Philippines | AFP | − A Philippine breeding centre trying to save the country’s critically endangered monkey-eating eagle has been so successful it is now scrambling for space, officials said Monday. Another eaglet was hatched last week, the second in barely three months, helping the giant bird’s fight against extinction. The chick, born from the natural mating of […]
Detection of gravitational waves would open new window on universe
By Jean-Louis Santini Washington, United States | AFP | − The first-ever detection of gravitational waves, which scientists could announce Thursday, would open a new window on the universe and its most violent phenomena. Scientists will hold a press conference Thursday to discuss the latest in their hunt for these waves, whose existence Albert Einstein predicted in his theory […]
Sam Milby records new album
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Sam Milby has returned to his first love. On Instagram, Milby shared that he is back to making music and will soon release a new album under Star Music. Milby released his last album “Be Mine” five years ago. According to his manager Erickson Raymundo, Milby’s album will include “Tunay Na Pag […]
The red lip makes a comeback at the BAFTAs
If the BAFTA Awards on Sunday taught us anything, it is that the classic red lip is back on point. We have been seeing less of the red lip over the past few seasons, as softer pinks and rich browns came back into fashion. But as the stars at the 69th edition of the British […]
“ISTRUKTURA 2” 3rd Solo Show
“ISTRUKTURA 2” 3rd Solo Show By: Jose Johann Bitancor Mar 1- April 2, 2016 Recep: March 12 (Sat) 6:30- 9pm Jack London Square Realty 311 Oak Street, Suite 116 Oakland CA 94607 Biography: Jose Johann Bitancor is a Filipino painter and graphic designer with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Far Eastern University in the Philippines. Prior […]
Tax relief available for business owners affected by Aliso Canyon gas leak
Sacramento – The California State Board of Equalization (BOE) has announced that business owners and fee payers impacted by the gas leak in Aliso Canyon may request an extension to file their tax returns and for relief from penalties and/or interest on some taxes and fees. The gas leak was discovered on October 23, 2015, and Governor Jerry […]
Bedans of SoCal induction April 16
San Beda College Alumni Association of Southern California (SBCAASC) is having their 34th Annual Induction Ball on April 16, 2016(Saturday) to be held at Anaheim Marriott Suites located at 12015 Harbor Blvd., Garden Grove, CA 92840 from 6:00 pm to midnight. This annual event is one of their ongoing yearly event to help indigent students in the Philippines […]
Lady Gaga readies experimental Grammy tribute to Bowie
Lady Gaga is promising a technologically ambitious, “multisensory” David Bowie tribute at the Grammy Awards she hopes will befit the famously experimental rock legend. The music industry’s biggest night takes place Monday barely a month after the shocking death of Bowie, who over his half-century career became one of the most influential figures in pop […]
Non-passage of BBL caused ‘widespread frustration’ within MILF – Iqbal
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The non-passage of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) in Congress has caused “widespread frustration” among the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the people of Mindanao, according to Mohagher Iqbal, chief peace negotiator of the MILF. “[T]here is widespread frustration on the ground by our people and members of the MILF,” Iqbal […]
Pope unleashes ‘super confessors’ to tackle special sins
By Ella Ide Vatican City, Holy See | AFP | − Dubbed ‘super confessors’, for one year only they can absolve sins usually only pardoned by the pope himself. And on Wednesday over 1,000 of these “missionaries of mercy”, handpicked by Pope Francis, were sent forth to win back the hearts of those who have left the Catholic Church […]
Bongbong open to reviving two-party system in politics
MANILA (Mabuhay)– Vice presidential aspirant Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said Thursday he is open to bringing back the two-party system in politics instead of the multi-party system. Marcos said legislators must seriously look into crafting a law that revive the two-party system in order to prevent politicians from switching from one party to the […]
Arron Villaflor shares real score with Yen Santos
Actor Arron Villaflor finally talked about the real score between him and his “All of Me” co-star, Yen Santos. In an interview on Friday, Villaflor admitted that he and Santos reached the point of being “more than friends.” But he was quick to add that they never became a couple. “Naging sweet-sweetan kami. Umabot doon. […]
Lovi Poe indulges her passion for singing
She is Primera Aktresa to her home network and the fans but even before she gained renown in acting, one of Lovi Poe’s biggest passions has always been music with an album to boot under her name. The singer-actress returned to roots at Music Museum over the weekend in the concert “Fantaisie” co-billed with Solenn […]
‘Hidden Figures:’ Taraji P. Henson follows Golden Globe with NASA biopic
Golden Globe winner Taraji P. Henson is being linked with a lead role in an upcoming film adaptation of “Hidden Figures,” the story of a team of NASA mathematicians who proved essential to the Space Race. Few may have known her name until recently, but NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson was an integral part of the […]
Supreme Court puts Obama carbon emissions plan on hold
Washington, United States | AFP | − The US Supreme Court on Tuesday put on hold President Barack Obama’s sweeping plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from coal-fueled power plants pending a legal challenge. A coalition of 27 US states is suing in a lower court to halt Obama’s Clean Power Plan, and petitioned the Supreme Court to suspend […]
Poe admits weight loss, but says she’s healthy
TOLEDO City, Cebu (Mabuhay) − Senator Grace Poe on Wednesday admitted that she is losing weight, but assured that she remains in good health and fit for the election campaign season. Poe, who noticeably looked gaunter at the official start of the campaign period than in 2015, attributed her weight loss to her failure to […]
Tinder-style apps score as online dating grows
The age-old quest for love is moving inexorably online for young and old Americans alike — whether this means swiping on their phone for a hot date, or using matchmaking sites to find the perfect mate. The 18 to 24 crowd has warmed to smartphone apps like Tinder that help them spot a match among […]
Can smartphones actually make you more active?
(Relaxnews) – New research suggests that using a smartphone can be an effective way of motivating people to get moving and can even decrease unhealthy sedentary behavior. The US-based pilot study brought together researchers from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, the American Cancer Society, and the technical expertise of the e-Health Technology Program […]
Not getting enough sleep? You’re probably on Facebook says new study
(Relaxnews) − In a recent study by the University of California, Irvine, researchers found that a lack of sleep is linked to a higher level of online browsing, including checking social media websites such as Facebook. Wanting to look at how sleep duration could affect internet use, rather than how internet use affects sleep, the […]
Zika virus: No cause for alarm yet in PHL, says Health chief
MANILA (Mabuhay) − There is no cause for alarm yet over the Zika virus, Department of Health Secretary Janette Garin reiterated Monday as the Philippines remains free from the bug. “Wala pa, wala pang [cases of Zika]. Although we have to give emphasis na dati nandito na sa atin yun, nawala siya at yung lamok […]
30 years after EDSA, Gringo thinks ‘system’ still the same
MANILA (Mabuhay) − Sen. Gringo Honasan, one of the key figures in the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution, said on Monday that the system and the problems that existed 30 years ago remain the same. In a radio interview, Honasan said: “Bago na ang mga personalidad pero ang sistema, yung improvement sa system, nakakaligtaan natin.” […]
US urges condom use or abstinence to avoid Zika virus
(Miami, United States-AFP) − US health authorities on Friday urged people to use condoms or refrain from sex if they live in or have traveled to areas where the Zika virus is circulating. The new interim guidelines from the US Centers from Disease Control are aimed at pregnant women and their partners, and at people […]
200 years in prison for OC man convicted of mortgage fraud
SANTA ANA, California – A federal jury today convicted an Orange County man for leading a “builder bailout” real estate scheme that resulted in the fraudulent purchase of more than 100 condominium units around the country with mortgages that mostly went into default, resulting in foreclosures and millions of dollars in losses. Momoud Aref Abaji, 34, of […]
Gawad Kalinga USA Hope Summit in Los Angeles March 4-6
Los Angeles, CA – This Spring, GK 1 World Foundation (dba Gawad Kalinga USA), in cooperation with Seafood City, will host the Hope Summit 2016, a three-day event on March 4-6 at Radisson Hotel Los Angeles at USC. A team from the GK global network that includes GK founding father Tony Meloto and GK Executive Director Jose Luis […]
Taylor Swift confirmed to perform at 2016 Grammy Awards
(Relaxnews) – It has been confirmed that Taylor Swift will perform at this year’s Grammy awards, due to take place later this month. Swift joins a list of artists who have already been confirmed including Kendrick Lamar and The Weeknd. Lamar is the artist with the most nominations this year, with 11 in total. Swift […]
If elected, Roxas open to appointing non-LP members as Cabinet officials
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Administration standard bearer Manuel “Mar” Roxas II on Friday said he is open to appointing non-members of the ruling Liberal Party (LP) as his Cabinet officials. Roxas said what’s important is for his appointees to have integrity. “Kung malinis, mas madali ang trabaho…Gagampanan ‘yung tungkulin na i-assign natin,” he said. “Hindi naman […]
Jed more than just a voice
MANILA (Mabuhay) — For Jed Madela, there is more to singing than just having a beautiful voice. He believes a true artist bares his heart and soul with every performance. This is why, after being in the business for over a decade now, the 38-year-old singer continues to learn and improve his craft. “I’m always […]
PAL announces the launching of its non-stop LAX-Cebu flight on March 15
By Joy Marino LOS ANGELES − Philippine Airlines is expanding its United States service with the launching of its non-stop flight from Los Angeles to Cebu, an executive of the Philippines’ national flag carrier announced. The launch of the flights between Cebu and Los Angeles coincides with the airline’s 75th founding anniversary on March 15, […]
Tax relief available for business owners affected by Aliso Canyon gas leak
Sacramento – The California State Board of Equalization (BOE) has announced that business owners and fee payers impacted by the gas leak in Aliso Canyon may request an extension to file their tax returns and for relief from penalties and/or interest on some taxes and fees. The gas leak was discovered on October 23, 2015, and Governor Jerry […]
Preparations for BBL passage when Congress reconvenes must begin now, says Ferrer
MANILA, Feb 4 (Mabuhay) — Congress must prepare as early as now to ensure the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) when it reconvenes after the May elections, the government’s chief peace negotiator said. Miriam Coronel Ferrer said that while the BBL will not be passed before Congress adjourns for the election period, steps […]
Drilon orders review of lawmakers’ right to defer appointment of officials
MANILA, Feb 4 (Mabuhay) — Senate President Franklin Drilon on Thursday said he has ordered the Commission on Appointments secretariat to review the invokation of Section 20 of their rules after Minority Leader Juan Ponce Enrile used it to block the nomination of seven career officials. “I directed the CA secretariat to conduct a review […]
BIR’s Henares: Pia Wurtzbach has to pay taxes unless exemption law is passed
MANILA, Feb 4 (Mabuhay) — Unless a law is passed, the Queen still has to pay her taxes after all. Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach is still not exempted from paying her taxes in the Philippines unless she gets the approval of both the House of Representatives and the Senate, said Bureau of Internal […]
Asian Film Awards nominations rack up for ‘The Assassin,’ ‘Port of Call,’ ‘Mountains May Depart’
(Relaxnews) – Hou Hsaio Hsien’s first martial arts film “The Assassin” goes into the Asian Film Awards with nine nominations, including ones for Best Film, Best Director, and Best Actress. Also favorably elevated by the selection process are Philip Yung’s crime thriller “Port of Call” (five nominations), Jia Zhangke drama “Mountains May Depart,” Guan Hu […]
UC launches DREAM Loan Program to help undocumented students
More than 3,000 undocumented undergraduate students will have access to a system-wide student loan program for the first time as the University of California implements the California DREAM Loan Program it sponsored, UC President Janet Napolitano announced last Friday. The financial aid offices of UC’s nine undergraduate campuses will be reaching out to undocumented AB 540 undergraduates with offers […]
Aquino says Muslim peace bid to continue after his term
Manila, Philippines | AFP – Philippine President Benigno Aquino has ordered special efforts to ensure a peace agreement with Muslim rebels is implemented even after his term ends this year, his spokesman said Sunday. Congressional leaders have said they are unlikely to pass the peace bill before the president’s term ends in June. Aquino had ordered “consultation and […]
US envoy: Sea disputes not covered by EDCA
MANILA (Mabuhay) – US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg on Friday clarified that the disputes in the South China Sea are not covered by the Enhance Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). “EDCA isn’t directly related to the South China Sea issues. It’s about the United States helping its ally, the Philippines, as it goes about […]
Luis admits problems in relationship with Angel
Luis Manzano neither confirmed nor denied that he and Angel Locsin have already broken up, but admitted that they are currently going through a rough patch. Manzano made the admission after the premiere screening of “Everything About Her” on Tuesday, which stars Locsin and his mother Vilma Santos. However, Mazano refused to go into details […]
AARP unmasks ‘Fearless at 50’ Filipina Roxanne Cai
WASHINGTON, D.C – Recognizing the milestone 50 represents, AARP recently launched “Fearless at 50,” a campaign to celebrate real people who are challenging outdated perceptions of what it means to be 50 and over. The campaign features real people boldly trying new things or just feeling good about who they are in video vignettes. Roxanne “Rock N […]
Pope warns gossiping priests, nuns to ‘bite your tongue’
Vatican City, Holy See | AFP – Pope Francis told gossip-loving priests and nuns to bite their tongues on Monday, and warned those breaking their vow of obedience to fall into line sharpish. “If you get an urge to say something against a brother or a sister, to drop a gossip bomb, bite your tongue! Hard!” the pontiff […]
Growing numbers of children in migrant sea crossings: UN
Geneva, Switzerland | AFP | Tuesday 2/2/2016 – Children now make up more than one third of the migrants and refugees making the perilous sea journey from Turkey to Greece, marking a sharp increase in recent months, the UN said Tuesday. “Children currently account for 36 percent of those risking the treacherous sea crossing between Greece and Turkey,” the UN […]
WHO declares global health emergency over Zika situation
(AFP) – The World Health Organization on Monday declared that a surge in serious birth defects in South America was “strongly suspected” of being caused by the Zika virus and constituted an international health emergency. “We need to take action,” WHO chief Margaret Chan told reporters in Geneva. The UN health body said that a […]
Facebook-owned WhatsApp boasts a billion users
(San Francisco-AFP) – Facebook-owned smartphone messaging service WhatsApp has hit the billion-user mark, according to the leading social network’s chief and co-founder Mark Zuckerberg. “One billion people now use WhatsApp,” Zuckerberg said in a post on his Facebook page. “There are only a few services that connect more than a billion people.” Google’s free email […]
Japan doubles number of F-15s on southern island of Okinawa
Tokyo, Japan | AFP | – Japan has doubled the number of F-15 fighter jets deployed on the southern island of Okinawa, near disputed islands in the East China Sea, the defence ministry said Sunday. Japan’s Air Self-Defense Force now has about 40 F-15s on Okinawa’s Naha base, according to the defence ministry. The move comes as Japan and […]
Cuisia briefs DC-based journalists on PHL foreign policy
WASHINGTON, D.C. — “In the past seven decades, the Philippines and the US have seen themselves become treaty allies, strategic partners and close friends. We believe that bilateral relations are truly at their best as they are comprehensive, dynamic and forward-looking,” Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. said in the opening of his special briefing […]
Bonta to address education, health disparities in Asian Pacific Islander community
(Sacramento, CA) – Today Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland) introduced legislation to uncover disparities within California’s diverse Asian Pacific Islander (API) population. AB 1726, the Accounting for Health and Education in Asian Pacific Islander Demographics Act (AHEAD Act) will track the status of API subgroups with respect to health outcomes and educational achievement. “Despite the general portrayal of APIs as […]
Keira Knightley in talks to star in ‘Colette’
(Relaxnews) – Keira Knightley could be set to star in the upcoming biopic “Colette”. The UK actress is in talks to play the role of the famous French writer in the biopic of her life set in the 1900s, Deadline reports. “Keira is impeccably suited to step into the role of the iconic Colette in the early […]
Dolce & Gabbana reveals new fragrance campaign starring Sophia Loren
(Relaxnews) – Sophia Loren’s full new beauty campaign Dolce & Gabbana has been revealed. The Oscar-winning Italian actress stars in a video by the Sicilian fashion house to mark the launch of its new fragrance ‘Dolce Rosa Excelsa’. The video is divided into three acts, “Rinascita”, “Festa” and “Meravigliosa.” The story sees silver screen legend […]
‘The Birth of a Nation’ wins top prizes at Sundance
(Los Angeles-AFP) – “The Birth of a Nation,” a drama about a 19th century slave revolt in Virginia, swept top prizes at the Sundance Film Festival on Saturday. The movie, acquired earlier this week by Fox Searchlight for a record-shattering $17.5 million, won the grand jury prize and the audience award at the prestigious festival […]
Bowie asked for ashes to be scattered in Bali: report
(New York-AFP) – Rock legend David Bowie asked for his ashes to be spread in Bali in a will submitted following his shocking death, a report said Friday. The New York Post, citing Bowie’s will which it said was filed in a Manhattan court, said that the British rock star wanted his ashes scattered in […]
Fashion meets architecture: the biggest looks from Paris haute couture
(Relaxnews) – Architectural fashion was the name of the game at the Spring 2016 Haute Couture shows in Paris this week, where bold structures and exaggerated silhouettes dominated the runways. There were asymmetric hemlines, cut high at the front to reveal sizeable flashes of thigh, before billowing out into floor-skimming trains at the back for […]
Dingdong reacts to critics bashing daughter Jayda
Dingdong Avanzado is not taking the criticism his daughter have been receiving lightly. The Filipino hitmaker responded to people bashing her daughter Jayda over posting a “selfie” with teen actor Bailey May on her Instagram account. “As a parent, it saddens me to see my daughter be a victim of this. Especially when she did […]
Martin Nievera: Still a huge draw
He’s been known as The Concert King for decades now and he looks far from relinquishing the title. Martin Nievera can still fill big venues here and abroad. In fact, even with little promotions at times, his concerts are still almost always sold out. In an interview, the singer downplayed his ability to command huge […]
Hips don’t lie: Zuhair Murad showcases romance while Sergeenko goes back to the 1980s at haute couture week
(Relaxnews) – Fashion designer Zuhair Murad put on a romantic show in Paris on Wednesday as he debuted his Spring 2016 Haute Couture collection. The Lebanese creative put the focus on female sensuality with a collection of structured dresses that protruded bell-like at the hips, sculpting exaggeratedly womanly curves. The effect was compounded by the […]
Supreme Court rejects strict North Dakota abortion law
Washington, United States | AFP | – The US Supreme Court on Monday struck down North Dakota’s last-ditch efforts to save a strict “fetal heartbeat” law that banned many abortions, weeks before another highly contentious case. The midwestern state had hoped the top court in Washington would back the Republican-inspired law adopted in 2013 which forbids abortions as soon […]
PHL economy grows 5.8% in 2015
MANILA, Jan 28 (Mabuhay) – The economy grew by 6.3 percent in the fourth quarter of 2015, the highest quarterly growth for the year, but slower than the 6.6 percent a year earlier, data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Thursday showed. The fourth quarter gross domestic product (GDP) compares with the revised […]
Contenders and advisors list set for season 8 of “Celebrity Apprentice”
(Relaxnews) – Warren Buffet, Tyra Banks and Jessica Alba will join new host Arnold Schwarzenegger for the 8th season of “Celebrity Apprentice”, reports Variety. Buffet, Banks and Alba will all be advisors on the game show in which celebrity contestants work together to complete a business task. Season 8 will focus on technology with 16 […]
Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach wants to enter politics: Drilon
MANILA, Jan 25 (Mabuhay) – Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach is interested in entering politics, Senate President Franklin Drilon said Monday. Drilon said Wurtzbach intimated this to him after the ceremony honoring her for winning the much-coveted crown in December. “You know, given her politically conscious responses to the questions, I am not surprised. You […]
Obama hails ‘wicked smart’ Clinton
Washington, United States | AFP | – US President Barack Obama is not officially endorsing a Democratic candidate to replace him just yet, but he had some high praise for “wicked smart” Hillary Clinton. With voting about to begin, the outgoing commander-in-chief avoided doing down Clinton’s rival for the party nomination, Bernie Sanders, but was effusive about a woman […]
500 years after reformation, Pope knocks on Lutherans’ door
By Angus Mackinnon Vatican City, Holy See | AFP | – Pope Francis will celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation by attending an ecumenical service in Sweden as a guest of the Lutheran church, the Vatican said Monday. In a highly symbolic act of reconciliation that would even recently have been unthinkable for a Catholic pontiff, Francis will […]
Aquino slams opportunists in Mamasapano debacle
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Monday hit back at people who he believes are exploiting the deaths of Special Action Force (SAF) troopers who participated in the Mamasapano mission last year. In his speech during the conferment of the Medal of Valor and Distinguished Conduct Medal on 47 slain and surviving SAF […]
Ralph&Russo, Giambattista Valli and Alexis Mabille rise to the occasion at Haute Couture Week in Paris
(Relaxnews) – There was pomp and ceremony on the catwalks of Paris on Monday night, as some of the biggest couture houses showed off their starry collections for Spring 2016. First up was the UK-based house Ralph&Russo, whose fairytale extravaganza of cocktail dresses and ball gowns was as enchanting as it was on-point. A sweet […]
‘Wild World of Orchids’ arrives March 4-6, 2016
Orchid lovers, flower fans and admirers of all things wild and wonderful, save the dates! On March 4 – 6, 2016, Santa Barbara International Orchid Show (www.SBOrchidShow.com) returns to Earl Warren Showgrounds in beautiful Santa Barbara, California. Thousands of blooms in every imaginable shape, color, pattern and texture, will be showcased at the show, one of the country’s largest and […]
SSS studying proposed P1,000 pension hike
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Social Security System (SSS) is studying a proposal to increase the pension of its retirees by as much as P1,000 in lieu of the P2,000 hike vetoed by President Benigno Aquino III. SSS Chief Actuary and Senior Vice President George Ongkeko Jr. said results of the study may be out by […]
Watch: New trailers for ‘Batman v Superman’
(Relaxnews) – A series of new trailers has dropped on Twitter revealing more clips of the epic cinematic showdown between Batman and Superman. Warner Bros. released two teasers giving both heroes airplay to state their case: Superman describes Batman as a “bat vigilante” and “one-man reign of terror” while Batman describes Superman as a threat […]
Aquino OKs ‘medal of valor’ awards to 2 SAF 44 members
MANILA, Jan 23 (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Saturday confirmed that President Benigno Aquino III has approved the recommendation to confer two Special Action Force members involved in the Mamasapano mission with the Medal of Valor award. “The President authorized the award and among the awards that will be conferred ay ang tinatawag na Medalya ng […]
500 years after reformation, Pope knocks on Lutherans’ door
By Angus Mackinnon Vatican City, Holy See | AFP | – Pope Francis will celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation by attending an ecumenical service in Sweden as a guest of the Lutheran church, the Vatican said Monday. In a highly symbolic act of reconciliation that would even recently have been unthinkable for a Catholic pontiff, Francis will […]
Palace hails PH’s credit rating upgrade from Seoul-based NICE: ‘Very nice’
MANILA, Jan 23 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Saturday welcomed the upgrade in the country’s credit rating from a Seoul-based debt watcher. Presidential communications undersecretary Manuel L. Quezon III said the credit rating upgrade from the National Information and Credit Evaluation (NICE) was “very nice.” “The NICE upgrade—it’s very nice—this is the NICE Investors Services of […]
Retired police general claims he has ‘critical evidence’ on Mamasapano cover-up
MANILA, Jan 23 (Mabuhay) – A retired police official on Saturday said he has in his possession a digital audio recording of a conversation between a ranking government official and a lawmaker about the January 25 Mamasapano encounter last year. Retired police Chief Superintendent Diosdado Valeroso said during a press conference in Quezon City that […]
Academy head ‘heartbroken’ over lack of diversity at Oscars
(Los Angeles-AFP) – Following an outcry over the all-white roster of actors nominated for this year’s Oscars, the president of the film academy said Monday she was heartbroken by the lack of diversity and working to implement change. “This is a difficult but important conversation, and it’s time for big changes,” Cheryl Boone Isaacs, president […]
Japanese kabuki set to perform in glitzy Las Vegas
(Tokyo, Japan-AFP) – Japan’s elaborate all-male kabuki theatre is heading to glitzy Las Vegas for a series of paid shows, organisers said Monday, in a bid to spread the classical Japanese art form to a global audience. Japanese film and theatre company Shochiku said it would present the “Japan Kabuki Festival” in May, including a […]
ZTE’s latest phone has an eye for security
(Relaxnews) – The Nubia Prague S launched on Monday is packed full of premium specifications can be unlocked via an eye scan. Announced in China, where it will be initially launched with a price tag of around $365, the Nubia Prague boasts a flagship all-metal external case, a full HD 5.2-inch display and a 13-megapixle-rear-facing […]
Comelec ratifies Guanzon comment on Poe DQ case
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Taking into account the greater interest of credible elections, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) ratified and validated on Friday the comment written and submitted by Commissioner Rowena Guanzon to the Supreme Court (SC) last week in relation to the disqualification of Senator Grace Poe. The Comelec resolution also confirmed and ratified the […]
Coco open to doing a ‘Beauty and the Bestie’ sequel
Following the success of Vice Ganda’s “Beauty and the Bestie,” lead actor Coco Martin said he is open to revisiting his role as a cop for a sequel to the comedy. The 34-year-old Martin hinted: “Sa ganda po ng kinalabasan, sa ganda po ng proyekto namin – baka, baka. Kahit kami na-in love kami sa […]
US economy mostly growing, some areas flat: Fed report
Washington, United States | AFP | – The US economy grew in most parts of the country, while the New York and Kansas City regions reported essentially flat growth, a closely watched Federal Reserve report showed Wednesday. The Beige Book report said that nine of the Fed’s 12 districts had reported increased economic activity that was either “moderate” or […]
US Supreme Court appears poised to rule against unions
By Sébastien Blanc Washington, United States | AFP | – The US Supreme Court appeared likely Monday to deal a major blow to public employee unions that could see them lose millions of dollars in fees that state laws force non-union members to pay. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Anthony Kennedy, who often holds the balance between […]
Friends Reunited closing down
(Relaxnews) – The world’s first genuine online social network is to shutter after 15 years. Before Facebook, Myspace, Bebo or Google + came Friends Reunited. A very simple online community that identified and connected people by the school, college or university they attended. Dreamed up by Julie Pankhurst while on maternity leave as a way […]
Is LA prepared to repair potholes caused by El Niño?
Los Angeles – Making good on his commitment to improving Los Angeles’s vast road network, City Controller Ron Galperin said his office will soon begin a follow-up audit of the Bureau of Street Services’ (BSS) pavement preservation program. The audit will assess BSS’s progress in implementing recommendations made by Galperin in his 2014 audit of […]
Benefits of cheap oil will come, but not soon
By Virginie Montet Washington, United States | AFP | – With petroleum investment and the manufacturing sector sagging and the stock market in free fall, many Americans are wondering when they will begin to see the benefits of cheap oil. Crude oil prices have tumbled by 70 percent since mid-2014, dropping this year below $30 a barrel, a […]
Aquino belittles Binay lead in latest poll
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Friday belittled the lead garnered by Vice President Jejomar Binay in the latest survey of pollster Social Weather Stations (SWS) on the presidential hopefuls. “It’s a snapshot right now. Wala pa tayo sa talagang kampanya… Baka may parte na walang naalalang negative sa kasalukuyan ‘yung mga natanong. […]
Sam Concepcion’s new album to have all original songs
For 2016, Sam Concepcion would like to focus not just on acting but on music as well. Following his successful stint on the second season of “Your Face Sounds Familiar,” Concepcion, who is is part of the ABS-CBN series “You’re My Home,” revealed that he will release his new album this year. Concepcion said the […]
Coldplay to receive ‘Godlike Genius Award’ at NME Awards 2016
(Relaxnews) – Music publication NME has announced that Coldplay are to receive the Godlike Genius Award at the NME Awards 2016. The awards will be held next month on February 17, with the band confirming that they will not only pick up the award in person, but will also perform an exclusive set of their greatest […]
‘Pretty in Pink’ re-release coming February
(Relaxnews) – High school love story “Pretty in Pink” celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, and a special two-day showing planned for US theaters. Directed by John Hughes, and co-starring Molly Ringwald, Harry Dean Stanton and Jon Cryer, 1986 release “Pretty in Pink” pleased reviewers and audiences alike with its story of tumultuous high school […]
£150-ticket street party for Queen Elizabeth’s 90th
(London-AFP) – Queen Elizabeth II will celebrate her 90th birthday with a street party for 10,000 people outside Buckingham Palace, her grandson said Friday — although tickets will not come cheap at £150 ($215, 200 euros). Peter Phillips, the queen’s eldest grandchild and son of Princess Anne, is organising the Patron’s Lunch, which he said […]
Aquino confers Order of Sikatuna on Lopez, Salinas
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III has conferred the Order of Sikatuna to Philippine Ambassador to Japan Manuel M. Lopez and Philippine Ambassador to Spain Carlos C. Salinas. The two awardees were given the Rank of Grand Cross with Gold Distinction. Lopez was recognized for his “exemplary efforts” that led to the “historical elevation” […]
Binay leads latest poll despite graft allegations
Manila, Philippines | AFP | – Philippine Vice President Jejomar Binay has overcome a barrage of graft allegations to re-emerge as front-runner to become the nation’s next leader, according to an independent poll released Friday. The 73-year-old had long been the favorite but his poll numbers tanked last year when allegations emerged that he and his son, both former […]
Sole search: Taiwan’s giant ‘shoe church’ gains foothold
(Taipei-AFP) – A giant blue stiletto heel dubbed Taiwan’s “shoe church” is bringing a touch of oversized glamour to the island’s southern coast. The shoe is not a place of worship but its creators hope it will attract enamoured couples as a backdrop for their wedding photos, hence the name. It is the latest bid […]
Prince William’s wife Kate to guest-edit Huffington Post UK
(London-AFP) – Prince William’s wife Kate is to guest-edit the UK section of The Huffington Post to highlight child mental health issues, Kensington Palace announced Friday. The Duchess of Cambridge will sit in the news website’s hot seat for a day in mid-February, their official residence said. Kate will use the opportunity to highlight the […]
Obama tells US to embrace time of ‘extraordinary change’
By Andrew Beatty Washington, United States | AFP – President Barack Obama on Tuesday told Americans nervous about terror and the changing economy that they should not fear the future, in a farewell State of the Union address that drew sharp contrast with Republicans. In an election-year marquee event, Obama hailed a period of “extraordinary change” laden with […]
PHL welcomes more US forces to ‘counter China’
By Mynardo Macaraig Manila, Philippines | AFP | – The Philippine Supreme Court ruled Tuesday a security accord with the United States was legal, allowing more US forces into the former American colony as it seeks to counter Chinese expansion in the South China Sea. The 10-year agreement, signed in 2014 but not implemented due to legal challenges, will […]
PHL exports down 1.1% in November: PSA
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Philippine exports registered a slight drop in November 2015, the latest data on merchandise trade released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Tuesday showed. The country’s shipments for the month reached $5.117 billion, down 1.1 percent down from $5.175 billion a year earlier. Electronic products, the Philippines’ top export earner, accounted […]
Children Now, Bonta, AG join forces to help kids exposed to trauma
OAKLAND, CA – This week Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland) introduced AB 1644, co-sponsored by Children Now, to increase support for one of the greatest public health crises of our time: adverse childhood experiences and trauma. The bill is part of a multi-year effort to help children exposed to abuse, neglect, violence and other traumatic experiences. […]
Cuisia talks South China Sea tension in DC
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. addressed issues surrounding the South China Sea and the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in a speech to the prestigious Foreign Policy Discussion Group (FPDG) of Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, arguing that an atmosphere characterized by tension and insecurity does not bode well for economic prosperity and integration. The Ambassador outlined […]
Madonna, Elton John honor Bowie with covers
(New York-AFP) – David Bowie’s music has returned to stage after his death, with stars including Madonna and Elton John dedicating emotional tributes to the legend — by singing his songs. The British rock legend’s death on Sunday at age 69 after an undisclosed battle with cancer has triggered an outpouring of grief from fans […]
US counts down to record $1.5 bn jackpot
(New York-AFP) – What would you do with a whopping $1.5 billion? That will be the question on many Americans’ lips Wednesday, when the draw is made for the largest lottery jackpot in US history. Even after the taxman calls, the Powerball jackpot could make the lucky winner wealthier than the likes of football star […]
Amber Heard linked with ‘Aquaman’ role
(Relaxnews) – US actress Amber Heard appears to be next in line to join Jason Momoa in 2018 superhero movie “Aquaman.” Heard is said to have been approached for an ongoing role in Warner Bros’s DC Comics adaptations, starting with “Justice League Part One” in 2017 and then “Aquaman” the following year. The DC Extended […]
Vatican cookbook dishes on favorite papal dishes
(Relaxnews) – Want to eat like a pope? A cookbook featuring dishes eaten at the Vatican is set to be released in English after first being released in German in 2014. In addition to shedding light on the types of meals eaten by members of the Swiss Guard — elite soldiers who protect the pope […]
Jinggoy, Bong seek furlough to pay last respects to Kuya Germs
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Detained Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. have asked the Sandiganbayan to allow them to leave detention for a few hours to attend the wake of entertainment industry patriarch German “Kuya Germs” Moreno. In his urgent motion submitted to the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division, Estrada on Monday asked the court to […]
Pinoys mainly concerned with inflation, salaries: Pulse Asia
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Managing inflation and higher salaries remain the urgent national concerns of Filipinos, according to a Pulse Asia survey released on Monday. “The leading urgent national concerns of Filipinos are mostly economic in nature,” the pollster noted. With a five-percentage point decline in the concern over increasing workers’ pay (42 percent) compared with […]
Clinton visits San Gabriel, slams GOP hateful rhetoric
By Abner Galino “They forget a fundamental lesson about our great country. Being an open and tolerant society does not make us vulnerable. It’s at the core of our strength.” With these words, Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton slammed the supposed “hateful rhetoric” of Republican presidential candidates before a well-attended gathering of Asian-Americans in a […]
Obama hopes to stoke optimism in farewell union address
By Andrew Beatty Washington, United States | AFP | – Barack Obama will use his final State of the Union address Tuesday, one of the last grandstand occasions of his presidency, to define his legacy and make the case for optimism amid an angst-ridden election race. Seven years ago, a youthful President Obama’s first address to Congress surprised some […]