President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has affirmed the autonomy of the Bangsamoro government, including its democratic institutions and political processes. Bangsamoro Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua welcomed the affirmation, calling it a validation of decades of struggle for self-determination.
The Philippine Senate has approved the Department of Education's (DepEd) proposed budget for fiscal year 2027. However, a significant point of contention is the request for an additional P147.93 billion, particularly for the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program, which had zero allocation in the initial proposal despite its proven success.
The Philippine government is being urged to strengthen measures to protect Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) facing economic challenges. Experts emphasize the necessity of support programs, recognizing MSMEs as the backbone of the domestic economy.
Vice President Sara Duterte's camp accused the Marcos administration of political persecution, calling the National Bureau of Investigation's probe into her alleged undeclared properties a "shameless smear campaign" and questioning the bureau's findings.
Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, chairman of Ayala Corporation, raised concerns about the Philippines' investment appeal, questioning the nation's readiness in terms of talent, infrastructure, energy, and regulatory environment. He urged an honest dialogue between the private and public sectors.
The Philippine Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET) has denied a motion to dismiss a quo warranto petition seeking the removal of Senator Erwin Tulfo over alleged US citizenship issues, allowing the legal proceedings to continue.
Cebu province in the Philippines is promoting multi-island tour packages to revitalize its local economy. The initiative aims to attract more domestic and international tourists by developing new travel routes.
Two jail facilities in Camarines Norte will install water treatment facilities under a government partnership to improve access to safe drinking water for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) and jail personnel. The three-year Project Aqua will provide a water treatment system, a drinking water station, and a backup generator.
Senate President Win Gatchalian accepted the apology of the House prosecution panel for taking wacky photos inside the session hall, but maintained that a warning will still be issued to reinforce the decorum of the chamber.
The Office of the Ombudsman in the Philippines will seek evidence from the prosecution regarding the use of confidential funds by Vice President Sara Duterte, encompassing both the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd), signaling a move towards further investigation and potential charges.
The Sandiganbayan has stated that the Commission on Audit (COA) found the anti-graft court compliant with its accounting policies, following media reports that flagged the court over insufficient documentation for some officials' foreign travels.
The Philippine government announced enhanced measures to protect its fishing rights in the South China Sea, amid growing concerns over increased Chinese activity in the region. The move aims to ensure the sustainability and economic stability of the domestic fishing industry.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported 17 volcanic earthquakes at Taal Volcano in the past 24 hours. Activity continues following a minor phreatomagmatic eruption a week ago. The alert level remains at "Level 1" (Abnormal).
Cagayan de Oro City is urging residents to take extreme precautions as the heat index is forecast to reach a dangerous 39°C by Saturday, October 17. The City Information Office issued an advisory predicting 37°C for Thursday and 39°C for Friday, urging immediate measures against heatstroke.
The National Association of Electricity Consumers for Reforms (Nasecore) has urged the Department of Energy (DOE) to require enforceable commitments on domestic supply, pricing, and uninterrupted production in the next bidding for the Semirara coal operating contract, emphasizing fair competition and benefits for the public.
An official from the Philippine Coast Guard (AFP) has criticized remarks by the Chinese envoy regarding 'use of force,' identifying the envoy as the 'troublemaker' in the West Philippine Sea, highlighting escalating tensions in the maritime region.
A 15-year-old student at Catarman National High School in Northern Samar faces criminal charges for allegedly bringing a firearm into his classroom. Police have referred the case to the prosecutor's office.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s recognition of the newly formed ruling bloc in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliament has been met with gratitude from peace advocacy groups, seen as a significant step towards fostering peace and development in the region.
President Marcos pledged to enhance the capabilities and readiness of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to address escalating maritime challenges. He emphasized the PCG's crucial role in safeguarding the nation's waters amidst rising regional tensions.
The Philippine Ombudsman has filed an P11-billion plunder complaint against 46 individuals, including Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation executives, over alleged anomalous pandemic-related purchases. Former procurement chief and ex-presidential economic adviser are among the respondents.
Motorists in the Philippines can expect a rollback of up to P4.20 per liter for gasoline next week, while diesel prices may see a slight increase. This reflects global market trends and domestic supply-demand dynamics.
Reality star Kim Kardashian's birthday celebration in the Philippines has generated significant buzz among local celebrities. Her lavish trip has captured the attention of the Philippine entertainment scene.
A survey reveals that over 60% of Filipinos support the introduction of a wealth tax on billionaires, as many citizens grapple with rising inflation and cost of living. The proposal aims to address wealth inequality and fund social welfare programs.
House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III mourned the passing of former Northern Samar Rep. Raul Daza, eulogizing him as a politician who steadfastly defended democracy. Daza served the nation for many years as a representative.
A new drama series starring popular Filipino actress Bea Alonzo on GMA Network has sparked controversy in the Philippines, with debates centering on its content and production background. While specific details remain undisclosed, speculation is rife on social media, heightening public interest.
The Philippine peso briefly recovered to the P62-to-one dollar level on Friday, though it remains near record lows. Signs of improved market sentiment and intervention are noted, but future volatility warrants caution.
Fifteen individuals, including lawyer Levito Baligod and 14 former security aides of ex-party-list representative Zaldy Co, were arrested in San Juan City on charges of unjust vexation. The charges are linked to the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, with bail set at P10,000 each.
Philippine shares rebounded on Friday, with the PSEi gaining 119.53 points to close at 5,782.70. Market sentiment may have been boosted by potential fund reallocation following MSCI's downgrade warning on Indonesia, potentially redirecting foreign inflows to emerging markets like the Philippines.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has summoned the hosts of the online show 'Machong Chismisan' over alleged defamatory remarks against Josh Aquino, reigniting discussions on free speech versus defamation for public figures.
Philippine senators are considering amendments to grant the government emergency powers to regulate fuel prices amid global energy market pressures from the Middle East conflict, aiming to protect consumers from excessive hikes. Concerns over high electricity costs were also discussed.
Child protection and mental health advocates in the Philippines have opposed a blanket ban on social media use for minors, urging stronger platform accountability and expanded mental health services to address risks like cyberbullying and sexual exploitation.
The Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs has expressed regret over remarks by China's ambassador, interpreted as a 'thinly veiled threat' of force. This latest diplomatic spat escalates tensions between the two nations over the South China Sea.
The Philippine Ombudsman is collating evidence related to the office funds of Vice President Sara Duterte, preparing for potential formal proceedings if deemed necessary.
Cebu faces escalating environmental challenges due to rapid development and population growth. Issues like waste management, water pollution, and deforestation are critical, demanding urgent action for sustainable development. This situation calls for increased public awareness and strong governmental leadership.
The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) announced that over 16 million Filipinos in areas formerly controlled by communist rebels have benefited from development projects under the Barangay Development Program (BDP), a government initiative aimed at ending insurgency.