Day: November 18, 2025

Makati city: The competitiveness of the Philippines’ agricultural exports is anticipated to improve significantly following the recent announcement by the United States of tariff exemptions on several key products. The exemptions apply to a 19 percent reciprocal tariff, providing a boost to the agricultural sector. According to Philippines News Agency, the US government announced on November 14 that products such as coconut oil, prepared or preserved coconuts, desiccated coconuts, fruit juices, processed pineapples, bananas (other than pulp), dried guavas, mangoes, mangosteen, frozen tuna fillets, rice wafer products, and confectionery products will now be exempt from tariffs. These items collectively generated

Manila: The National Police Commission (Napolcom) is advocating for tighter control over the production, sale, and use of official Philippine National Police (PNP) uniforms. Napolcom Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan emphasized the need for stricter regulations in a recent meeting with accredited suppliers, highlighting concerns over the growing presence of unauthorized sellers. According to Philippines News Agency, Calinisan expressed concerns about the “unregulated activities” of sellers operating near Camp Crame and on various online platforms. He noted that these activities not only compromise the authenticity of the uniforms but also undermine institutional standards. “The PNP uniform is

Pasig city: Small businesses got a boost in terms of training for digital readiness following the partnership of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Converge ICT Solution Inc. According to Philippines News Agency, during the signing ceremony of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) in Pasig City, Trade Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista, supervising head of the DTI-Competitiveness and Innovation Group, said the tie-up will help empower owners of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and equip them with technological knowledge. Bautista emphasized the goal of encouraging MSMEs to embrace technology and digitalization, believing that the partnership with Converge

Manila: Economist and former Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda on Tuesday praised President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to appoint Finance Secretary Ralph Recto as the new executive secretary. Salceda emphasized Recto’s ability to effectively liaise with key political figures, a crucial role following the resignation of Lucas Bersamin, who stepped down due to his department’s involvement in questionable flood control projects. According to Philippines News Agency, Salceda, who chairs the Institute for Risk and Strategic Studies, Inc., highlighted Recto’s understanding of the importance of economic outcomes in political success. He noted that Recto is one of the few

Siquijor: The Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) operating command in Southern Visayas has launched a task force for the sustainable development and long-term protection and conservation of marine resources in Siquijor. According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Junior Grade Rachel Diputado, who heads the Marine Environmental Protection Enforcement and Response Group in the region, said the task force is a collaborative endeavor involving the Coast Guard District Southern Visayas, Siquijor provincial government, and local stakeholders. “We launched Task Force Yaman Dagat in Siquijor on Monday, following the creation of the Negros Island Region, and especially since Siquijor is one of the