Rappler Business
Mary Jane Veloso finally free after 16 years
Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipino worker, has returned to her home country after 16 years of imprisonment. She had been sentenced to death for drug smuggling but was ultimately freed.
🇵🇭 Philippines News Archive
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Rappler Philippines
Mary Jane Veloso finally free after 16 years in detention
Mary Jane Veloso, a former overseas Filipino worker (OFW) and victim of human trafficking, has been released after 16 years of detention for alleged drug smuggling. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. granted her absolute pardon, allowing her to return home.
GMA News Philippines
Robin Padilla counter-affidavit filing reset to Nov. 12 due to missing documents
Senator Robin Padilla's filing of his counter-affidavit at the Department of Justice has been postponed to November 12 due to missing documents, as part of the preliminary investigation into obstruction of justice charges.
Philstar Business
ACEN Completes Stake Sale in Indian Solar Venture
Philippines' ACEN has completed the sale of a portion of its stake in an Indian solar power project to Netherlands-based DIRO, advancing its portfolio restructuring in India's renewable energy sector.
Philstar Business
Philippines Suspends Excise Taxes on LPG, Kerosene Amid Soaring Costs
The Philippines has temporarily suspended excise taxes on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene, its primary cooking and household fuels, in response to surging global fuel costs driven by the Middle East conflict. This measure aims to alleviate the financial burden on consumers, translating to a reduction of approximately three pesos per kilogram of LPG.
BusinessWorld Nation
Philippine President Grants Pardon to Drug Convict Mary Jane Veloso
Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced Friday he has signed a pardon for Mary Jane Veloso, who was sentenced to death in Indonesia for drug trafficking. Veloso, who narrowly escaped execution in 2015, returned to the Philippines in December 2024.
BusinessWorld Economy
Philippine Creative Economy Hits P2.12 Trillion, Eyes Regional Export Growth
The Philippine creative economy has expanded to P2.12 trillion, representing 7.6% of GDP. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is positioning the sector as a key driver for exports, the digital economy, and regional trade, aiming for enhanced international cooperation at ASEAN meetings.
SunStar Philippines (GN)
PAL to Launch Flights to Delhi, Mumbai in December
Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced the launch of new direct flights to Delhi and Mumbai, India, starting December 2026. This move is expected to boost economic and tourism exchanges between the two nations.
Inquirer NewsInfo
Marcos Signs Law Postponing Barangay and SK Elections
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed into law a measure postponing the Barangay (village) and Sangguniang Kabataan (youth council) elections. The polls are now expected to be held simultaneously with the next national and local elections.
Inquirer NewsInfo
Legarda undergoing treatment in France; Leviste by her side
Senator Loren Legarda is undergoing treatment for a lung and autoimmune condition in France, accompanied by her son, Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste, according to her spokesperson.
GMA News Philippines
Sara Duterte: VP, Mayor Baste's attendance at impeachment trial 'depends'
Vice President Sara Duterte stated that her and her brother Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte's attendance at the impeachment trial is "up to them," implying it depends on whether they are summoned. The mayor has already received a subpoena, while the Vice President's camp indicated their lawyers will represent them.
Inquirer NewsInfo
Marcos Grants Absolute Pardon to Mary Jane Veloso
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has confirmed granting an absolute pardon to Mary Jane Veloso, a former overseas Filipino worker who was on death row for drug trafficking. Veloso's execution had been stayed since 2015.
Inquirer NewsInfo
Sandiganbayan Cautions Romualdez Lawyers Over Media Remarks
The Sandiganbayan Third Division has cautioned lawyers of former House Speaker Martin Romualdez regarding their media remarks about the court process during his plunder case's pre-trial proceedings, urging them to observe "propriety" and maintain the court's dignity.
GMA News Philippines
DPWH Secretary Dizon: 'I don't want to be here anymore' amid lapsed appointment query
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon expressed a desire to resign from his post, stating, "I also somewhat don't want to be here anymore," when questioned by a senator about his lapsed appointment. Dizon indicated he would be happy to accept the end of his tenure due to the job's extreme difficulty.
GMA News Philippines
Marcos signs law postponing Brgy., SK elections to Nov. 2028
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed into law a bill postponing the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) to November 2028, extending the term of incumbent officials to five years. The move is justified by the administration as allowing officials to focus on long-term projects and community service, though challenges to the postponement are anticipated.
Philstar Nation
Two Merchants Killed in Maguindanao del Sur Ambush
Two Moro merchants were killed and one wounded in an ambush in Mamasapano, Maguindanao del Sur. Authorities suspect remnants of the defunct Dawlah Islamiya terror group may be responsible for the attack on traders.
GMA News Philippines
NBI probes ex-Velasco aide's claim of delivering P2B cash to Sara Duterte
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has launched an inquiry into claims by a former security detail of ex-House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, who alleges he delivered over P2 billion in cash to Vice President Sara Duterte on Velasco's orders.
Philstar Nation
MNLF chairman's son wounded in gunfight with motorcycle thieves
A barangay chairman in Cotabato City, son of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chairman, was wounded in a gunfight while pursuing motorcycle thieves. Police are investigating to identify and apprehend the suspects.
SunStar Philippines (GN)
Davao Anchors PH Durian Output Amid Rising Global Competition
Amid intensifying global competition, the Davao region in Mindanao is leading the Philippines' durian production. The area's consistent supply of high-quality durians supports the nation's standing in the international durian market.
Rappler Business
Philippines Suspends Excise Taxes on LPG, Kerosene to Ease Consumer Burden
The Philippines has suspended excise taxes on LPG and kerosene due to soaring global oil prices, offering some relief to households. Gasoline and diesel remain excluded from the tax break, with attention on the broader economic impact.
Inquirer NewsInfo
30% of Filipinos believe they can fight corruption, SWS survey finds
A recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey reveals that 30% of Filipinos believe they can contribute to reducing government corruption. However, a significant 52% feel powerless, highlighting a disparity in public perception and engagement with the issue.
Inquirer NewsInfo
2028 polls survey: Sara-Robin 12 points ahead of Leni-Bam tandem — OCTA
A recent OCTA Research survey on a hypothetical 2028 presidential election matchup in the Philippines shows the tandem of Vice President Sara Duterte and Sen. Robin Padilla leading the pairing of former Mayor Leni Robredo and former Sen. Bam Aquino by 12 percentage points. The findings suggest potential frontrunners in the country's next electoral contest.
Inquirer NewsInfo
Romualdez to Testify in Plunder Case at Sandiganbayan
Former Speaker Martin Romualdez will testify in his plunder case before the Sandiganbayan, his lawyer confirmed. The former Speaker aims to defend himself in court, with his legal team considering him their most crucial witness.
Rappler Philippines
Is Vince Dizon still DPWH chief? Senator raises questions
Senator Imee Marcos questioned the legal standing of Vince Dizon as acting Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Citing the Administrative Code, she pointed out that temporary appointments should not exceed one year, to which Dizon gave an uncertain response.
GMA Money Philippines
Philippines Approves Public Transport Fare Hike; Student, Senior Discounts Remain
The Philippines' Department of Transportation has approved a fare hike recommendation for public utility vehicles, including jeepneys, UV Express, and taxis. The increase is attributed to rising fuel prices and aims to support drivers' incomes and business sustainability. Discounts for students, seniors, and persons with disabilities will remain in effect.
Interaksyon Politics
CBCP Urges Enactment of Anti-Political Dynasty Law
The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has voiced strong support for an anti-political dynasty law, following a Supreme Court ruling. The CBCP highlighted concerns over concentrated power harming the common good and endorsed the 'Dapat Isa Lang' citizen initiative.
GMA Money Philippines
Mynt CEO's UN Call for 'Borrowing with Dignity' Boosts IPO Prospects
Mynt CEO Martha Sazon advocated for Filipinos to 'borrow with dignity' at the UN, a call that has amplified the company's global narrative amid its IPO plans. Over 20 cornerstone investors have committed approximately P36.5 billion.
GMA Money Philippines
Philippines Suspends Excise Tax on LPG, Kerosene to Ease Household Burden
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the suspension of excise tax collection on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene amid soaring international crude oil prices. This move aims to alleviate the burden on households.
GMA News Philippines
Romualdez Ordered to Appear for Bail Hearing in Graft Court
The Sandiganbayan has ordered former Speaker and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez to appear for his bail hearing on October 12, related to a P7.4 billion plunder charge concerning alleged involvement in a flood control project controversy.
Inquirer NewsInfo
Farmer Arrested with Suspected Shabu at Ilocos Sur Checkpoint
A 29-year-old farmer was arrested for possessing suspected shabu during a routine police checkpoint in Ilocos Sur. The incident highlights the challenges of drug enforcement in rural areas and its implications for ongoing security efforts.
Inquirer NewsInfo
Gunsmith Arrested in Pangasinan Drug Bust, Faces Illegal Firearm Manufacturing Charges
A gunsmith, classified as a high-value individual (HVI) in illegal drug operations, was arrested in Pangasinan, Philippines. Authorities seized suspected shabu and are investigating potential involvement in illegal firearm manufacturing, highlighting the nexus between narcotics and arms.
GMA Money Philippines
Philippine Peso Strengthens Against US Dollar on Expected Year-End Remittance Surge
The Philippine peso appreciated against the US dollar, closing the week at P62.465:$1. The anticipated increase in remittances from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) towards the end of the year is cited as a primary driver for the peso's strength. The stock market also showed positive performance.
GMA News Philippines
Minority bloc to continue participation in VP Duterte impeachment trial, Cayetano denies boycott
The Senate minority bloc will continue to participate in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano said. He stated there are no indications of a boycott.
GMA News Philippines
OVP Denies Fund Loss Amid COA Documentation Deficiencies
The Office of the Vice President (OVP) has stated that no funds were lost following a Commission on Audit (COA) report flagging documentation deficiencies for P168 million in its 2025 Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund. The OVP attributes discrepancies to changing circumstances and asserts compliance with legal and COA requirements.
GMA Money Philippines
IMF Downgrades Philippine Growth Forecast Amid Public Spending Woes
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered its economic growth forecast for the Philippines to 3.4% this year, citing weaker-than-expected second-quarter performance and a slow rebound in public spending. Inflation outlooks were also partially revised.
Inquirer NewsInfo
Man Arrested in Quezon City for Alleged Theft of Water Company Batteries
A 24-year-old man was arrested in Quezon City for allegedly stealing four maintenance-free car batteries from a water company compound. Police have apprehended the suspect and are continuing their investigation.