Day: December 3, 2025

Manila: The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has confirmed the resignation of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) secretary Rogelio ‘Babes’ Singson. His resignation from ICI is effective December 15, 2025, but there is a possibility of an extension until December 31, as announced by ICI chairperson Andres Reyes Jr. According to Philippines News Agency, Reyes highlighted that Singson cited health reasons and security concerns as the basis for his resignation. Singson expressed that the demanding nature of his work with the ICI has significantly affected his well-being and is not aligned with his accustomed lifestyle. In a

Manila: The Philippine peso weakened against the US dollar on Wednesday, and this, along with profit-taking, hit the Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) during the day. The local currency finished the day’s trade at 58.92, weaker than its 58.52 close on Tuesday. It opened the day sideways at 58.55, and ranged between 58.92 and 58.5. The average for the day stood at 58.75. Volume declined to USD1.41 billion from day-ago’s USD1.49 billion. According to Philippines News Agency, this negatively affected trading in the local bourse, with the main index ending the day 1.48 percent lower to 5,905.84 points, and the

Manila: Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced Wednesday it will augment its fleet for domestic operations. PAL has just accepted the delivery of five Airbus A320, and another unit will be received before yearend. Next year, three more aircraft will arrive to boost PAL’s operations. According to Philippines News Agency, each of the additional units is configured to carry 180 passengers, enabling PAL to increase flight frequency. ‘By expanding our A320 fleet, we are providing travelers with more reliable, convenient, and comfortable options,’ PAL Express president Rabbi Vincent Ang said in a statement. “Right-sizing our fleet enables PAL to maintain

Baguio: The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) is investigating 1,000 suspected cases of ‘ghost patients’ linked to questionable claims already paid to various health care providers. Lawyer Eric Mandiit, head of PhilHealth-Cordillera’s legal unit, disclosed that the incidents involve individuals listed as having used PhilHealth benefits between 2022 and 2024 but were later found to have never sought treatment. Notably, some individuals were reported to have died before the dates of the supposed medical services. According to Philippines News Agency, PhilHealth has also uncovered instances of double claims, including cases where a patient was reported to have undergone dialysis in

Ilocos norte: The provincial government of Ilocos Norte on Wednesday renewed its call for inclusivity, regardless of ability, as it reaffirmed its support to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). According to Philippines News Agency, Ilocos Norte Gov. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, in her speech during a program marking the province’s observance of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, stated, “We renew our commitment to building a province where every person, regardless of ability, can live with dignity, opportunity and respect.” Marcos emphasized that all programs and services of the provincial government aim to empower everybody, including PWDs, to thrive and participate fully in