Category: General

Manila: A low pressure area (LPA) has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) and is expected to develop into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). The weather bureau indicated that the system will be named Wilma once it intensifies into a tropical cyclone. According to Philippines News Agency, the LPA was positioned 1,105 kilometers east of southeastern Luzon as of 2 p.m. on Wednesday. PAGASA forecasts that the system will bring heavy rains to Northern Samar and Eastern Samar from Thursday to Friday. Additionally, the weather

Manila: Akbayan Party-list Rep. Chel Diokno on Wednesday introduced a legislative measure aimed at safeguarding the rights and welfare of online platform workers, irrespective of their employment status or classification. According to Philippines News Agency, House Bill 6572, known as the Protektadong Online Workers, Employees, Riders, at Raketera (POWERR) Bill, seeks to ensure that online platform workers are not exploited and are provided equal opportunities for growth and development. Diokno emphasized the importance of protecting these workers, many of whom are young individuals and entrepreneurs, to ensure they benefit from the flexibility offered by non-traditional employment forms. The POWERR Bill

Manila: Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro addressed a large rally in the capital, declaring that the nation would not accept what he termed a ‘slave’s peace,’ in response to rising tensions and concerns over potential US military action. Maduro made these remarks as he spoke to thousands of supporters outside the presidential palace, emphasizing Venezuela’s desire for peace grounded in ‘sovereignty, equality, and freedom.’ According to Philippines News Agency, the rally coincided with US President Donald Trump’s meeting with national security officials at the White House to deliberate on ‘next steps’ regarding Venezuela. This meeting came after a phone conversation between

Manila: Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Wednesday advised consumers to consider more affordable fish options amid a tight global supply of galunggong (round scad), which has pushed retail prices higher in local markets. Data from the Department of Agriculture’s Bantay Presyo monitoring showed that as of Monday, imported galunggong in Metro Manila was priced between PHP280 and PHP350 per kilogram, while locally sourced galunggong ranged from PHP300 to PHP400 per kilogram. According to Philippines News Agency, in an ambush interview, the agriculture chief said the limited arrivals of round scad from major sources have driven prices upward. “It’s

Iloilo city: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is urging consumers in Western Visayas to buy certified and product standard-compliant Christmas lights and fireworks to enjoy the holiday season. DTI Western Visayas Assistant Regional Director Mutya Eusores, in a press conference on Wednesday, said buying certified and compliant Christmas lights can help protect households from fire, electrical hazards, and other risks posed by substandard items. ‘By following precautionary measures, we consumers can also enjoy fireworks safely while celebrating the season. We can never compromise safety,’ she added. According to Philippines News Agency, DTI Consumer Protection Division chief Grace Benedicto

Quezon city: The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday vowed to strengthen its cooperation with the Israeli government to improve intelligence sharing, modernize police training programs, and adopt best practices in public safety and community policing. This initiative follows a meeting between acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. and Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines, Dana Kursh, held during a courtesy call at the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Tuesday. According to Philippines News Agency, the meeting underscored the long-standing friendship between the Philippines and Israel and explored avenues for expanding cooperation in security, capacity