Day: May 20, 2025

Manila: Charges will be filed against government officials who are found involved in the smuggling of rice, Malaca±ang announced. In an interview with dzBB, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that there is an ongoing investigation into the alleged involvement of government officials in the illegal importation of rice. According to Philippines News Agency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. disclosed in the first episode of his ‘BBM Podcast’ that some government officials are behind and profiting from rice smuggling. Castro emphasized that a thorough investigation is underway, as directed by the President, to verify these

Manila: Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has initiated a ‘Go Back to Basics’ guidance aimed at addressing internal reforms to enhance discipline, professionalism, and resolve persistent gaps within the service. This move is in alignment with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen professionalism and restore public trust in government institutions. According to Philippines News Agency, PNP deputy chief for administration, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., has been tasked with implementing this program. His role is crucial in ensuring that all efforts are harmonized, consistently carried out, and closely monitored across every level of

Zambales: The Philippine Navy has been diligently working towards establishing a “holistic defense posture” to secure the nation’s expansive maritime territories, as stated by its chief, Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, during a speech at the Navy’s 127th founding anniversary event at the Naval Operating Base Subic. According to Philippines News Agency, Vice Admiral Ezpeleta emphasized the importance of a comprehensive defense strategy for the archipelago and its exclusive economic zone. This approach is deeply rooted in the comprehensive archipelago defense concept, which is critical to the nation’s future and its maritime security. Vice Admiral Ezpeleta highlighted the pivotal

Manila: Senators Joel Villanueva and Sherwin Gatchalian on Tuesday hailed the approval of 16,000 new teaching positions, framing the move as a strategic investment in strengthening the education system and securing the nation’s long-term development. According to Philippines News Agency, Villanueva, the commissioner of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), emphasized that hiring more educators is not merely about filling vacancies but empowering the next generation with quality instruction that can uplift communities and drive national progress. “We’re not just hiring teachers. We’re building the foundation for a more skilled, competitive and enlightened Filipino workforce,” he said in

Manila: Total assets of the Philippine banking sector went up by over 7 percent as of end-March this year. According to Philippines News Agency, data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed that the total assets of the banking sector amounted to PHP27.64 trillion in March this year, up by 7.7 percent from PHP25.65 trillion in the same month last year. Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation chief economist Michael Ricafort said the continued growth in banks’ total assets may be attributed to the growth in loans and investments. “[It] is also supported by the continued growth in bank deposits