Day: April 28, 2025

Zamboanga City: The city government on Monday handed over 44 motorcycle units to the local police and military forces to enhance their capabilities in maintaining peace and order. According to Philippines News Agency, all but two of the 44 new motorcycles are designated for the Zamboanga City Police Office. The Marine Battalion Landing Team-1 and Task Force Zamboanga received one unit each. Mayor John Dalipe stated that the acquisition of the motorcycles cost PHP10.47 million, with each unit priced at PHP238,000, funded from the capital outlay of the city’s 2025 executive budget. Mayor Dalipe advised security personnel to maintain the

Manila: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced an update to its list of medicines that are exempt from value-added tax (VAT), a significant move aimed at making essential treatments more affordable for Filipinos. According to Philippines News Agency, the updated list, detailed in Advisory No. 2025-0498, includes new medicines targeting hypertension, cancer, mental illnesses, tuberculosis, kidney diseases, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Among the newly added medicines for cancer treatment are Bortezomib 3.5 mg Powder for Injection, Docetaxel Concentrate for Solution for I.V. Infusion, and Lenvatinib Hard Gelatin Capsules. For diabetes, Saxagliptin combined with Dapagliflozin Film-Coated Tablets are now

Manila: The Philippines and New Zealand are on the brink of formalizing an agreement designed to foster close military coordination between the two countries. This development marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral defense ties, allowing for enhanced cooperation and joint activities. According to Philippines News Agency, New Zealand Defense Minister Judith Collins announced her plans to travel to the Philippines to sign the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement. This treaty-level document outlines the legal responsibilities and obligations of both nations, establishing a framework for military engagement and facilitating ongoing cooperation, activities, and exercises within their respective territories. Collins highlighted

Vancouver: Senators expressed grief and outrage on Monday over the deadly car-ramming incident during a Filipino street festival in Vancouver, Canada, that killed and injured several people celebrating Lapu-Lapu Day Saturday night. According to Philippines News Agency, Senate President Francis Escudero conveyed his thoughts and prayers to the victims of the incident, describing it as a “dastardly” act against Filipinos gathered for a peaceful celebration. He emphasized the need for Canadian authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice and urged the Philippine Consulate and embassy officials to provide all possible assistance to the victims and their families. Senate Deputy Minority

Manila: Motorists will face another round of fuel price hikes this week, as oil companies announced increases due to rising international costs. According to Philippines News Agency, in separate advisories, Caltex, Cleanfuel, Petro Gazz, PTT, Seaoil, and Shell said they will raise gasoline prices by PHP1.35 per liter and diesel prices by the same amount starting Tuesday (April 30). Caltex, Seaoil, and Shell also announced an increase in kerosene prices by PHP0.80 per liter. This marks the second consecutive week of pump price hikes. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), the latest adjustments are largely driven by supply concerns