Author: Crispin Valdez
-
US Grants $336 Million Exemption for Philippine Security Modernization Amid Aid Freeze
In a significant move that underscores the robust alliance between the United States and the Philippines, the US has decided to exempt a substantial $336 million in security aid from its broader foreign aid freeze. This decision, highlighted in a recent Reuters report dated February 22, is part of a larger $5.3 billion in previously…
Written by
-
Philippines and Palau Strengthen Ties with New Agreements on Fisheries, Diplomacy, and Labor
In a significant move to enhance bilateral relations, the Philippines and Palau have signed three pivotal agreements during a two-day official visit by Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. to Manila. The visit, which took place on February 24, 2025, was marked by a warm welcome from Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace,…
Written by
-
Northern Samar Escalates Efforts Against African Swine Fever in Hog Farms
In a determined effort to curb the spread of African swine fever (ASF), the Northern Samar provincial government has ramped up its preventive measures following the confirmation of 14 cases across three towns. The initiative includes intensified field surveillance in areas reporting unusual hog deaths, as stated by Provincial Agriculture Officer Jose Luis Acompañado during…
Written by
-
Massive Drug Busts in Makati and Cebu: P14 Million Shabu Seized, Three Arrested
In a significant crackdown on illegal drug activities, the Philippine National Police (PNP) successfully apprehended three suspects and confiscated PHP14.4 million worth of shabu in coordinated operations across Makati City and Cebu province. The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) reported that two individuals, known by the aliases Wewel and Madam, both 28 years old,…
Written by
-
Panagbenga Festival to Feature Record-Breaking 42 Floats in Grand Parade
BAGUIO CITY – The Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. (BFFFI) announced a historic milestone for the upcoming Panagbenga Festival, with a record-breaking 42 floats set to participate in the Flower Float Parade on February 23. This announcement was made during a press conference at Jollibee Porta Vaga, attended by city officials and led by Evangeline…
Written by
-
Bureau of Immigration Warns of Filipinos Lured to Work in Scam Hubs Abroad
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has raised concerns about an increasing number of Filipinos being enticed to work for companies resembling Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in various Asian countries. During a press briefing at the Palace, BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval revealed that approximately 118 Filipinos have been recruited to join what are essentially scam…
Written by
-
Baguio Court Dismisses Another Injunction Against BCDA in John Hay Property Dispute
In a recent development in Baguio City, the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 3 has dismissed yet another legal challenge aimed at halting the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) from taking over a 247-hectare leased property within Camp John Hay. The court rejected the request for a temporary restraining order (TRO) brought forward by…
Written by
-
Agriculture Secretary Advocates for Enhanced Infrastructure to Cut Farm-to-Market Expenses
In a recent statement, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the critical role of improved infrastructure in reducing transportation costs for Filipino farmers. Speaking from Manila, he highlighted how better roads and bridges could streamline the agricultural supply chain, thereby lowering the costs associated with moving farm products to markets. Tiu Laurel pointed out…
Written by
-
Philippine Army Seeks More Reservists in Negros Oriental to Bolster National Defense
In a bid to strengthen its response capabilities during national emergencies and security threats, the Philippine Army is urging more residents of Negros Oriental to join its Ready Reserve Battalion (RRB). The call to action comes from Col. William Pesase, the head of the 703rd Community Defense Center, who emphasized the critical role reservists play…
Written by