Day: July 3, 2025

Washington: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) officially ceased operations on Tuesday, with its remaining functions merged into the US State Department, a move that drew sharp criticism from former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush. According to Philippines News Agency, the reorganization, initiated under President Donald Trump, involves transferring select USAID functions to the State Department while terminating others that do not align with the administration’s foreign policy agenda. In a previous statement, Trump had derided the agency as being managed by “a bunch of radical lunatics.” Obama called the shutdown ‘a colossal mistake,’ warning of

Marilao: A bettor from Laguna bagged the PHP46-million jackpot in Wednesday’s MegaLotto 6/45 draw. The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) announced Thursday that the winning ticket, purchased in Lucky Circle Corporation in Marilao, Bulacan, had the combination 38-07-16-44-15-42. According to Philippines News Agency, the winner has one year to claim the PHP46,134,409.20 prize at the PCSO main office in Mandaluyong City, subject to a 20-percent tax. The ticket holder must present the winning ticket and two valid IDs to claim the prize money. A total of 14 bettors also won PHP32,000 each for correctly guessing five of the six winning

Tokyo: Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba pledged to safeguard Japan’s national interests during upcoming tariff negotiations with the United States. Ishiba made this commitment during a televised debate at the Japan National Press Club, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the country’s interests. According to Philippines News Agency, the debate took place just one day before the official campaign period for the House of Councillors election begins on July 20. Ishiba, who leads the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, stressed the significance of the talks, particularly in light of past electoral outcomes. During the debate, Ishiba addressed concerns about the ruling coalition’s

Manila: The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has confirmed its plans to acquire an airborne early warning and control system (AEWACS) to enhance the security of the country’s airspace. The proposal for this acquisition has been submitted as part of the PAF’s Re-Horizon H3 capability list. According to Philippines News Agency, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo announced that the PAF has put forward the proposal to higher authorities. The AEWACS system is expected to provide airborne surveillance, command, control, and communications capabilities, crucial for comprehensive air battle management. However, Castillo refrained from disclosing further details, directing inquiries to the Department

Quezon city: Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) operatives have arrested an individual for trading PHP1.3 million worth of alleged illicit cigarettes during an operation in Quezon City. In a statement released Thursday, CIDG acting Director Brig. Gen. Romeo Macapaz said the suspect, identified only as Angelo, was arrested for allegedly trading counterfeit and trademark-infringing cigarettes at the Luzon Extension, Mendoza Street, Barangay Sangandaan, Quezon City on Tuesday. According to Philippines News Agency, the operation was part of efforts to run after those engaged in the manufacture and trade of counterfeit items and illicit trading of tobacco products across the