Day: October 21, 2025

Manila: Prison facilities across the country are observing a week-long visitation initiative this week as part of the National Correctional Consciousness Week (NCCW). In a statement, BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. stated that the initiative aims to foster family solidarity and enhance familial ties among persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). According to Philippines News Agency, this effort is also part of the Bureau of Corrections’ (BuCor) ongoing commitment to humane treatment and rehabilitation, aligning with the objectives of the NCCW celebration. The BuCor announced that visiting hours in all its operating prison and penal farms (OPPFs) will be

Manila: The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) and the National Privacy Commission (NPC) have signed an agreement to enhance data privacy protection and ensure regulatory compliance within the gaming sector. According to Philippines News Agency, the agreement, signed on October 20, aims to address data privacy challenges, improve stakeholder collaboration, and foster a secure and trusted gaming environment. PAGCOR and NPC plan to implement joint programs focused on privacy awareness, capacity building, and policy development to reinforce privacy governance in the gaming industry. PAGCOR chairperson and CEO Alejandro Tengco emphasized that the partnership highlights the state gaming firm’s dedication

Manila: Japan’s health ministry has approved the over-the-counter sale of the emergency contraceptive pill Norlevo by Aska Pharmaceutical Co., the company announced on Monday. This marks the first time an emergency contraceptive pill has been approved for sale without a prescription in the country. According to Philippines News Agency, the drug is expected to be available as early as this fiscal year, as shared by a person familiar with the matter. Norlevo is effective in preventing pregnancy in approximately 80 percent of cases if taken within 72 hours of sexual intercourse. Significantly, there will be no age limit for purchasing

Manila: Almost 70,000 families in five regions in Luzon and the Visayas were affected by Tropical Storm Ramil, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said Tuesday. According to Philippines News Agency, in its latest situational report, the NDRRMC stated that the 69,686 affected families equate to 244,689 individuals residing in 629 villages across Regions 2 (Cagayan Valley), 3 (Central Luzon), Calabarzon (Southern Tagalog), 6 (Western Visayas), and 8 (Eastern Visayas). As of Tuesday noon, 3,882 families were receiving assistance in 261 evacuation centers, while another 3,228 were being aided in other locations. The NDRRMC also reported that

Davao city: The Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) is gearing up for a surge of travelers during “Undas,” with daily passenger volume expected to reach between 50,000 and 80,000. DCOTT manager Aisa Usop said the terminal expects about 1,000 to 1,500 bus trips each day during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on Nov. 1 and 2. According to Philippines News Agency, Usop noted that the “ber” months typically see an increase in travelers, further contributing to the anticipated rush. To meet the demand, DCOTT has coordinated with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to issue