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The Philippine peso hit a record low on Wednesday, nearing 62 to the US dollar, as Middle East tensions and uncertainty over US interest rates strengthened the greenback. While beneficial for remittances and exports, the weaker peso also increases import costs and debt servicing burdens.
Average retail prices of rice nationwide surged 22.16% year-on-year to P49.61 per kilogram in early August, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), amid concerns over reduced harvests due to El Niño.
Philippine media giant ABS-CBN is strengthening its focus on content creation and distribution as it rebuilds after losing its broadcast franchise. The company is actively seeking partnerships with other media firms to enhance content reach and drive revenue recovery.
The proposed 2027 national budget in the Philippines faces significant constraints for new and emerging priorities due to the increasing burden of mandatory expenditures. Analysis by the Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department (CPBRD) estimates fiscal space for new initiatives will shrink to a mere 2.2%, a sharp decline from the historical average of 11.8%.
Federico “Piki” Lopez remains on the board of ABS-CBN Corp. following the media giant's annual stockholders’ meeting, despite a public feud with top executives. The company, navigating rebuilding efforts after existential crises, continues normal operations amidst complex internal dynamics.
Philippine telecommunications giant PLDT has completed trials for its direct-to-device satellite technology, enabling standard mobile phones to receive emergency alerts and public safety messages even when terrestrial networks are down, aiming to bridge connectivity gaps in disaster-stricken areas.
Negros Electric and Power Corp. (NEPC), backed by billionaire Enrique Razon Jr., is investing P2.1 billion to upgrade its distribution network and reduce system losses. The company assures consumers that this modernization program will not lead to higher electricity rates. It has already invested P1.2 billion in projects including an underground distribution system and expanding electricity access to rural areas.
Epson Precision Philippines Inc. is expanding its Batangas plant to include the production of industrial robots, with an investment exceeding P40 million. The move aims to manufacture robot arms for automation processes, targeting commercial operations by March 2027. This expansion signifies growing Japanese investment and a move up the value chain for the Philippines.
Philippine regulators are standing firm on the shutdown of Villar-led Siquijor Island Power Corp. (Sipcor) due to its expired operating permit. The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) maintains that Sipcor cannot operate without renewal or a new provisional authority, despite a Court of Appeals ruling.
Philippine stocks plunged on Wednesday, with the benchmark PSEi falling 1.7 percent as rising global oil prices and the peso's slide to record intraday lows rattled investors amid renewed Middle East tensions. All sectoral indices ended in negative territory.
The Philippines has been named the world's fastest-growing retreat destination by online booking platform BookRetreats, with a 323% year-on-year surge in interest driven by its 'island sanctuaries.' This highlights a growing global demand for rest, relaxation, and mental well-being among travelers.
Metro Pacific Bulacan Water (MPBW) has restored water production at a San Jose del Monte treatment plant to its 30-million-liter-per-day design capacity. This marks an improvement from supply reductions due to years of deferred maintenance, with increased supply expected for some higher-elevation areas.
Filipinos' perception of credit has improved, with the credit perception index reaching a record high, according to a new TransUnion survey. Despite economic challenges, consumers are increasingly using credit strategically for emergencies and living expenses.
The Philippine government has urged media outlets to prioritize safety while serving as "fearless guardians of the vote" during their coverage of the Bangsamoro parliamentary elections on September 14. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto conveyed this message during the opening of a three-day safety and security meeting.
Former Marine Orly Guteza has withdrawn his allegations against then-Speaker Martin Romualdez, a move that significantly impacts the Ombudsman's case build-up against the President's cousin. Guteza claims he was coerced into giving false testimony by other politicians.
The Philippine government anticipates the planned Pax Silica hub in New Clark City will extend benefits beyond the Luzon Economic Corridor to the Visayas and Mindanao regions, where mineral resources originate. The establishment of local mineral processing plants is expected to enhance economic value and create jobs.
Seven individuals have been sentenced to life imprisonment (up to 40 years) for the kidnapping of a 78-year-old woman in Quezon City in September 2025. The Department of Justice affirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law and pursuing justice.
Bangsamoro police confiscated P14 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes and arrested five individuals in Cotabato City and Maguindanao del Norte during the implementation of the election gun ban, highlighting intensified efforts against illicit trade in the region.
With the next presidential election less than two years away, the head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has called on the Church to help voters form their consciences and participate responsibly in the political process. The appeal, made at a meeting in Tacloban City, highlights the Church's role in faith and politics.
The Philippine Senate has begun deliberations on recent incidents of violence within schools and the impact of digital platforms on children. The hearing addresses shootings, including one at Ateneo de Zamboanga University, and the influence of online gaming and social media on youth mental health.
In response to forecasts of heavy rains from the southwest monsoon, the Philippine Presidential Palace has ordered government agencies in Metro Manila and 17 provinces to adopt alternative work arrangements, including work-from-home, for today. Essential public services will continue.
The Philippine Presidential Palace has expressed openness to disclosing information regarding foreign trips of government officials, following a challenge from the Vice President. The administration intends to enhance transparency concerning public fund expenditures.
The Philippine Senate's impeachment court has expressed concerns that lowering the voting threshold required for the impeachment of the Vice President would set a "dangerous precedent." The court emphasized that altering constitutionally defined standards for convenience would violate due process.
Presidential Press Officer Claire Castro defended her remarks that some teachers violate moral standards, stating she did not blame them but aimed to highlight their role in guiding youth. Teacher groups pushed back, and Castro refused to apologize.
The Philippine government has ordered alternative work and learning arrangements in Metro Manila and 17 other areas due to heavy rains from the southwest monsoon. Essential services will continue to operate.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has reminded private employers to suspend work and outlined wage payment rules during bad weather, as the southwest monsoon affects Luzon. Workers refusing to work due to impending danger are protected from sanctions.
Following a tragic school shooting in the southern Philippines, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle urged for humane connection and compassionate guidance in raising children, emphasizing the importance of familial bonds over technological dependence.
Bukidnon Province and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) have launched a nearly P10-million 'smart' agricultural monitoring initiative. This project aims to equip farmers and local officials with timely data to mitigate the impacts of climate shocks on agriculture.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced that stolen expansion joint parts were the cause of falling debris at the Magallanes Flyover along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) in Makati City, damaging the bridge structure.
The Philippine government has released P1.855 billion in additional funding for the Philippine General Hospital (PGH). The funds, released by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) upon presidential order, aim to alleviate hospitalization costs for patients.
Following a fatal shooting incident at Ateneo de Zamboanga University that claimed the lives of two minors, the Philippine Secretary of Education is urging a nationwide, holistic approach to campus safety and youth well-being. The incident highlights the urgent need to review school safety measures across the country.
Southwest monsoon rains are gradually easing in the Philippines as Tropical Depression Neneng approaches Taiwan. While some areas still require caution, overall weather conditions are expected to improve.
A key witness in the Philippines' multibillion-peso flood control corruption scandal has recanted his previous statements, claiming he was pressured by former lawmakers Marcoleta and Defensor to testify. This retraction could significantly alter the direction of the investigation.
The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) announced on August 19 that there were no jackpot winners for the Grand Lotto 6/55 and Mega Lotto 6/45 draws. The Grand Lotto 6/55 jackpot exceeded ₱142.96 million.
Ateneo de Zamboanga University in Zamboanga City, Philippines, has pledged full cooperation with authorities and affected families following a recent shooting incident. The university has provided security footage and is committed to assisting the investigation.
The Philippine Army launched a territorial defense exercise in Sulu involving government, security, and disaster-response agencies to enhance coordinated response capabilities during security emergencies.