In a recent address at the Vin d’Honneur at Malacañan Palace, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. made a compelling case for international support for the Philippines’ bid to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027-2028 term. The UNSC, tasked with maintaining international peace and security, comprises 15…
The Philippines has recently accused China of escalating tensions in the South China Sea. A Chinese coast guard ship, “the Monster,” patrolling the disputed Scarborough Shoal, came within 77 nautical miles of the Philippine coastline. The Philippines has described this move as an act of intimidation and an attempt to normalize China’s “illegal presence” in…
According to a recent study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), the Philippines is making strides toward achieving upper middle-income status by 2025. Despite facing global economic challenges and domestic issues, the country’s economy showcased remarkable resilience in 2023, reaching a 5.6% growth rate. Although this growth is slower than the 7.6% expansion…
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued an Executive Order to reorganize the National Security Council (NSC), removing Vice President Sara Duterte and former presidents from its membership. The Executive Order, signed on December 30, 2024, underscores the need for the NSC to adapt to evolving national security challenges and ensure its members uphold and protect…
San Pascual, Masbate – Early this week, three Filipino fishermen made an unexpected discovery while out at sea: an underwater drone believed to be of Chinese origin. The fishermen from Barangay Iniwaran in San Pascual found the device floating about nine kilometers off the coast. The drone, marked with the identifier “HY-119,” was promptly turned…
FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Army’s modernization thrust is on track. This is how Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido described the Army’s modernization program that will bolster its shift to territorial defense and will help it fulfill its vital land defense role under the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC) during a…
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the Republic Act 12116, a record-breaking P6.326 trillion national budget for 2025. The signing ceremony occurred at Malacañang Palace on December 30, 2024, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. The 2025 budget, initially proposed at P6.352 trillion, was meticulously reviewed and reduced by P194 billion. President Marcos exercised…
On December 18, 2023, the Philippine Senate ratified Senate Resolution 1248, formalizing a military access agreement with Japan aimed at bolstering defense cooperation between the two nations. This landmark agreement is a strategic response to escalating tensions in the region, particularly concerning China’s increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea.
GRAB officially opened a centralized hub at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Terminal 3 to enhance passenger convenience and streamline transportation services. This innovative facility aims to alleviate the ongoing traffic congestion that travelers often encounter in the departure and arrival areas, providing a smoother and more efficient experience for passengers and drivers….
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has urged the Department of Finance (DOF) and its affiliated agencies to expedite the implementation of the new VAT refund mechanism for non-resident tourists, established under Republic Act 12078. This act allows foreign visitors to claim Value Added Tax (VAT) refunds on locally purchased goods, aiming to boost tourism and encourage…
