Day: December 15, 2025

Manila: The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Monday welcomed the Philippines’ recognition as Asia’s Best Retirement Destination at the 11th TripZilla Excellence Awards, saying the accolade was an affirmation of the country’s growing competitiveness as a global retirement hub. ‘This award affirms what the global community increasingly sees-the Philippines is not only a beautiful place to visit, but a place to call home,’ Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said. According to Philippines News Agency, Frasco added that retirees are drawn to the Philippines not only for its natural attractions but for its culture of care, hospitality, and compassion. She said the

Manila: Officials of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have acknowledged that the Philippine government’s macroeconomic policies and reforms support economic growth, but they still cut their growth forecasts for the domestic economy in 2025 and the following year due to the impact of external developments. According to Philippines News Agency, in a report released Monday following the end of the Article IV Consultation with the Philippines last Nov. 24, the IMF now projects a gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 5.1 percent for this year, citing increasing tariffs that weigh on exports and investments. The forecast for next year stands

Sydney: No Filipino has been reported dead or injured from the terror attack in Bondi Beach in Sydney over the weekend, the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney said Monday. The Consulate confirmed that it has coordinated with the New South Wales Police Protection Operations Unit, which advised that, as of this time, there are no indications that Filipino nationals are among the confirmed fatalities or injured. According to Philippines News Agency, the Consulate condoled with the families of those killed, the injured, and the communities affected by the terror attack during a Hanukkah community event on December 14. At least

Tokyo: The Tsukiji Outer Market in Chuo Ward, Tokyo, a renowned destination for food enthusiasts and international visitors, has made an unusual plea this month. It has requested tour operators to avoid bringing tourists to the market towards the year-end to prevent potential issues. According to Philippines News Agency, this request arises from past dangerous situations during the year-end when the market, adjacent to the now-closed Tsukiji wholesale food market, became so congested with tourists that injuries were reported. The Tsukiji Food Town Development Council, a nonprofit organization linked to the outer market, has displayed a poster from December 1

Manila: The Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC) celebrated Media Appreciation Day with the renewal and formal signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that reinforces its commitment to supporting press members. According to Philippines News Agency, the MOA signing on December 9 marked the second year of partnership, strengthening the foundation built a year ago. Recognizing the vital role of the media in society, CGHMC ensured that members of the press have access to medical care when they need it most. The CGHMC emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding, acknowledging the challenges media professionals encounter in their