Author: Crispin Valdez

  • New Zealand Bolsters Philippine Red Cross with PHP17 Million for Typhoon Relief

    In a show of solidarity, the New Zealand government has donated NZD500,000, equivalent to about PHP17 million, to aid the Philippine Red Cross in its efforts to respond to multiple typhoons that have battered the Philippines. The New Zealand Embassy emphasized the strong bond between the two nations, highlighting shared values of resilience and compassion…

  • President Marcos Allocates P60 Million for Kanlaon Eruption Relief

    President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has provided a total of PHP60 million to aid the relief efforts for those affected by the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon on December 9. The funds were distributed equally between the Canlaon City government and the provincial government of Negros Oriental, with each receiving PHP30 million. The handover was conducted…

  • Philippines Halts Live Cattle and Buffalo Imports from Japan Due to Lumpy Skin Disease

    MANILA – In response to an outbreak of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in Japan, the Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) has announced a temporary suspension of live cattle and buffalo imports from the country. The outbreak was reported in Maebaru, Fukuoka on November 15. LSD, a serious viral disease that affects cattle, can result in…

  • No Further Price Hikes Expected for Noche Buena and Agricultural Products, Say DTI and DA

    In a recent joint market inspection at Guadalupe Public Market in Makati City, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced that there will be no additional price increases for Noche Buena items and agricultural products until the end of the year. This assurance comes as the holiday season…

  • Philippines and Japan’s New Military Pact to Enhance Regional Stability

    In a significant move to bolster regional security, the Philippines and Japan have finalized a reciprocal access agreement (RAA) that promises to strengthen their military cooperation. The agreement, which was signed in Manila on July 8 and ratified by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on November 5, 2024, received the Senate’s approval on Monday, marking…

  • Philippine Health Insurance Corp. Boasts Robust Financial Health, No Need for Government Subsidies

    The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is in a financially sound position, according to its President and CEO, Emmanuel Ledesma Jr., who shared this during a recent session with lawmakers. Despite areas requiring attention, Ledesma emphasized that PhilHealth’s financial status is robust, supported by substantial reserves and a significant surplus. In the proposed 2025 national…

  • Cebu Province Celebrates Outstanding Achievements in Bar and LET Exams

    Cebu Province is set to honor its top performers in the 2024 Bar Examinations and Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET), recognizing their exceptional achievements and reinforcing the region’s dedication to excellence. Governor Gwendolyn Garcia proudly announced that these high-achieving graduates have brought significant honor and prestige to Cebu. Governor Garcia emphasized the province’s role in…

  • PhilHealth Assures Continued Benefit Payments Despite Lack of Government Subsidy

    The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has committed to maintaining its health benefit payments even without government financial support, according to its president and CEO, Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. In a statement released on Monday, Ledesma emphasized that the decision by the Bicameral Conference Committee to withhold subsidies was based on an understanding of PhilHealth’s robust…

  • Bago City Declares State of Calamity, Allocates P18 Million for Relief Efforts

    Bago City, severely impacted by the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon in Negros Occidental, has officially declared a state of calamity to accelerate relief operations for its residents. The decision was made during a special session of the city council on Monday, following the recommendation of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC). This…