The upcoming ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), slated for signing at the ASEAN Summit in the Philippines, is expected to enhance ease of doing business within the region. Digitalization and harmonization of financial transactions are anticipated to reduce costs and accelerate processes.
The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) of the Philippines has signed an Information Sharing Protocol with Mizuho Bank Limited, Manila Branch, to bolster efforts against money laundering and terrorism financing, enhancing safeguards for the financial system.
A buy-bust operation in Zamboanga City led to the arrest of two high-value drug suspects and the seizure of approximately 500 grams of suspected shabu, valued at P3.4 million. This operation by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) highlights ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.
Artificial intelligence (AI) adoption among businesses in the Philippines has surged to 32% in 2026, a significant increase from 21% the previous year, according to a study by Amazon Web Services (AWS). While many firms focus on basic applications, a portion are advancing to more sophisticated AI integration.
Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez has filed a bill to limit system-loss charges on electricity bills, aiming to prevent consumers from paying for losses due to power theft, illegal connections, and faulty meters. The move addresses concerns over rising electricity costs.
Police in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines have arrested eight individuals, including the region's top drug suspect, during intensified anti-drug operations. The confiscated narcotics are valued at over P1 million.
Bukidnon, Philippines – A solemn ceremony was held to commemorate the 35th death anniversary of Rev. Fr. Neri Lito Satur, a priest who was killed for his staunch advocacy for environmental preservation in the province.
Police in Panitan, Capiz, have arrested a high-value individual allegedly involved in drug trafficking and seized approximately 140 grams of suspected methamphetamine (shabu) with an estimated street value of P952,000. This operation highlights the ongoing challenges in the Philippines' anti-drug campaign.
A rare phenomenon has turned the beachfront in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, Philippines, pink for four consecutive days. The unusual sight of tiny shrimps blanketing the shoreline has captured the attention of locals and visitors alike.
In the Philippines' Caraga region (Region 13), a total of 28 firearms were surrendered to police units as authorities intensified operations against unregistered weapons. Of these, 21 had expired licenses.
San Juan City, in cooperation with the Caring Keri Foundation, launched its Breast Cancer Awareness Month on October 5 with the theme "Wellness and Wisdom: A Journey of Strength and Survivorship," drawing 236 participants.
A P3.9-billion road improvement project connecting South Cotabato and Sarangani provinces in Mindanao, Philippines, has significantly eased travel and agricultural product transport for local farmers. This enhances access to markets for produce from previously isolated upland communities.
In Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, 41 women, including 10 minors, were rescued on suspicion of human trafficking. Five suspects were arrested in connection with an alleged prostitution syndicate, highlighting the persistent issue of human trafficking in the Philippines.
An intensifying El Niño episode in the Philippines could push inflation above 8 percent and add further strain to its already weak economy, according to Chinabank Research. The phenomenon is projected to add 0.25 percentage points to headline inflation.
The Department of Education (DepEd) has released the guidelines for the 2026 National Literacy Awards (NLA), aiming to recognize partners contributing to literacy advancement nationwide. This initiative underscores the department's ongoing commitment to improving literacy rates.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has launched new employment programs aimed at developing Filipino skills, improving job access, and fostering sustainable livelihoods. The initiatives, including Trabahong-Dagat, SkillPass, and Sagip-Trabaho, were announced during the 26th National Public Employment Service Office Congress in Cebu.
The Davao journalism community is mourning the passing of veteran journalist Edfer Fernandez. Tributes highlight his contributions and express deep sorrow over his loss.
The Department of Agriculture announced it ordered the revocation of the sanitary and phytosanitary import clearance for a vessel carrying suspected smuggled rice before its arrival in the Philippines. Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. made the decision after receiving "derogatory" information about the shipment.
The Philippines Department of Education will mandate enhanced accessibility and disaster resilience standards for new public school buildings starting fiscal year 2027, a policy welcomed by disability rights advocates.
The Davao City Council is deliberating on a proposed ordinance to criminalize fake notary acts, aiming to safeguard the integrity of the notary system. Such fraudulent practices can undermine the legitimacy of legal proceedings.
Meat supplies in Davao City, Philippines, are currently maintained in a safe and stable condition. The stable provision of essential food items is considered crucial for the local economy and public health.
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Davao Region emphasizes that effective risk management is crucial for the success of private sector projects, especially in disaster-prone areas of the Philippines.
Persistent economic pressures in the Philippines are exacerbating household financial strain, leading to increased calls for consumer protection. The headline signals concerns about the public's wallet.
Philippine stocks extended their decline on Wednesday, dragged down by a sharp drop in index heavyweight ICTSI and weighed by foreign selling and persistent economic headwinds. The Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi) shed 1.48 percent to close at 5,617.23.
Senator Loren Legarda has again extended her medical leave abroad, with Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. confirming the senator's continued absence. This comes as an ombudsman investigation into alleged anomalies in solar power projects involving her son progresses.
Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte criticized House prosecutors for dropping three of four impeachment charges, citing a lack of evidence. She stated the public deserves genuine accountability, not political theater.
A Pulse Asia survey reveals that 51% of Filipinos want Vice President Sara Duterte to testify in her impeachment trial. Public knowledge of the impeachment case is low, with divided opinions on the allegations against her.
The percentage of Filipinos who experienced involuntary hunger in the third quarter of 2023 rose to 22.6%, up from the previous quarter, according to a new survey by Social Weather Stations (SWS). The increase was particularly notable in Metro Manila and among poor households.
Philippine immigration authorities have arrested a Swedish national in Negros Oriental wanted by Finnish authorities for multiple fraud charges. The fugitive was allegedly involved in schemes resulting in significant financial losses and had overstayed his visa in the Philippines.
The Commission on Audit (COA) has flagged the Sandiganbayan for inadequate documentation of expenses related to overseas trips by its justices and personnel. The 2025 audit report revealed that approximately P11.87 million in foreign travel expenses were disbursed without essential supporting documents like invitations and airfare quotations.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has identified 10 persons and entities of interest in the seizure of 512 kilograms of suspected shabu in Laos, believed to have been intended for shipment to the Philippines.
Vice President Sara Duterte has been urged to focus on building her defense in the ongoing impeachment trial, rather than portraying herself as a victim. The call comes amid scrutiny over unexplained wealth and public funds.
Philippine fiber broadband and tech provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has secured three prestigious accolades at the HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia Awards, underscoring its commitment to employee engagement, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and workplace sustainability.