Day: October 13, 2025

Manila: The New Zealand Embassy in Manila has expressed serious concern over the recent incident involving the Chinese Coast Guard and vessels of the Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, New Zealand’s government highlighted its alarm over reports of water cannon use and direct vessel contact by the Chinese Coast Guard, actions that were deemed dangerous. According to Philippines News Agency, the statement from New Zealand warned that such acts “endanger lives at sea and risk increasing tensions,” urging for a peaceful

Manila: Malaca±ang said Monday the suspension of face-to-face classes in Metro Manila is a precautionary move by the Department of Health (DOH) to prevent the spread of influenza-like illnesses commonly seen during the colder months. According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the DOH has clarified that current flu cases remain 8 percent lower compared to the same period last year. However, authorities opted for a ‘health break’ to stop infections from further spreading in schools. “Sa ganitong panahon talaga lumalabas ang influenza-like illnesses (During this season, influenza-like illnesses are common),” Castro said in a

Iloilo city: The city and province of Iloilo have announced plans to provide assistance to areas impacted by recent earthquakes in Cebu and Davao. In a statement made on Monday, Mayor Raisa Tre±as confirmed that the city government will allocate PHP200,000 each to Bogo City and Davao Oriental as a form of financial aid to help with recovery efforts. According to Philippines News Agency, Councilor Sedfrey Cabaluna has already initiated support through the “Tabang Sang mga Ilonggo” donation drive, successfully sending goods and messages of hope to those affected in northern Cebu. The drive has quickly amassed significant donations, both

Manila: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is backing the initiative for more frequent earthquake drills across all establishments and workplaces nationwide following recent seismic activities that have affected the country. DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma emphasized the joint responsibility of workers, employers, and the government in advocating for occupational safety and health. According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE has expressed approval of the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines’ (TUCP) call for increased drills to enhance awareness of safety protocols during earthquakes and other calamities. House Deputy Speaker and TUCP party-list Representative Raymond Democrito Mendoza has called on companies

Bacolod city: The city government has initiated a reunification program for mendicant Badjaos to facilitate their safe return to their places of origin, particularly in Mindanao. This effort is part of a larger initiative to address public safety concerns and provide social support to vulnerable communities. According to Philippines News Agency, an inter-agency operation over the weekend identified 19 Badjao individuals, including adults, minors, and elderly persons with disabilities, at the Bacolod Public Plaza and near the Bacolod Real Estate Development Corp. port. These individuals were taken to the Bacolod Arts and Youth Sports Center for assessment, profiling, and orientation.