Day: December 16, 2025

Bicol region: Police arrested at least 78 wanted persons and seized from them nearly PHP4 million worth of shabu in various police operations in the Bicol Region. PRO-5 acting Regional Director Brig. Gen. Erosito Miranda said the recorded arrest was from Dec. 5 to 16. According to Philippines News Agency, during the period, illegal drugs valued at PHP3.9 million were confiscated, which included 9.20 grams of marijuana and 579.48 grams of shabu. The arrests of wanted persons comprised seven individuals at the provincial level, two at the city level, 12 at the municipal level, and 57 others captured through intensive

Manila: The Philippines is poised to welcome 127 cruise ship visits in 2026, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to rejuvenate its cruise tourism sector, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced on Tuesday. This development underscores the ongoing engagement and commitment of cruise operators to the country. According to Philippines News Agency, the projected number of cruise ship calls is part of a broader strategy to enhance collaboration with cruise stakeholders, thereby facilitating sector recovery and growth. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized that cruise tourism in the Philippines is not solely about the number of arrivals but also

Manila: The National Security Council (NSC) is currently looking into reports that the father and son behind Australia’s deadliest mass shooting traveled to the Philippines a month before the attack. ‘The National Security Council is aware of reports that the individuals involved in the Bondi Beach shooting in Australia had previously traveled to the Philippines, and these reports are currently being validated,’ Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a press briefing. According to Philippines News Agency, Castro issued the statement following reports that father-son gunmen Sajid and Naveed Akram underwent ‘military-style’ training in the Philippines a month before attacking

Manila: Malaca±ang on Tuesday warned that many government projects could face delays if the proposed 2026 national budget is not approved on time. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. does not want a reenacted budget, stressing the importance of making all necessary efforts to avoid delays. According to Philippines News Agency, Castro highlighted during a Palace press briefing that everyone, including Congress, is aware of the President’s stance against a reenacted budget. Castro stated, “Alam po ng lahat, lahat po tayo pati po ang Kongreso, ayaw po ng Pangulo ang isang reenacted budget. Sa

Manila: Alex Eala earned the chance to fight for her first gold medal in the SEA Games women’s singles event after she drubbed Thailand’s Thasaporn Naklo, 6-1, 6-4, in the semifinals on Tuesday afternoon at the National Tennis Development Centre here. According to Philippines News Agency, Eala, the top seed, overcame a strong comeback attempt by Naklo in the second set, where she initially trailed 0-2 after a dominant performance in the opener. Naklo capitalized on her service game, making it challenging for Eala to break her serve and maintain momentum. A sizable Filipino crowd provided support as Eala surged