General

Manila: The Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) has recommended implementing more targeted international marketing campaigns to counter the decline in inbound tourist arrivals to the country. According to Philippines News Agency, HSMA president and Group Commercial Director of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, Loleth So, suggested that the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) could enhance collaborations with airlines and digital platforms to increase visibility. “We suggest more targeted international campaigns that highlight unique experiences beyond sun and beach, including wellness, food, and culture,” So stated. The Philippines has experienced a slowdown in foreign arrivals during

Catarman: Some of the country’s most decorated multisport warriors, led by Mervin Santiago, will join the Ibabao Festival 2025 Sunrise Standard Triathlon Recon Race in Catarman, Northern Samar on Sunday. According to Philippines News Agency, Santiago, the first Filipino to cross the finish line at the 2023 IRONMAN World Championship in Nice, France, headlines a lineup that includes Kona and IRONMAN 70.3 World finisher Robert Rivera, multi-podium finisher and coach Ronald Molit, and Maryfel Aumentado. Also joining the race are 2023 GoClark Duathlete of the Year Junrox Roque, 25-time IRONMAN 70.3 finisher Chang Hitalia, who is also an eight-time full

Makati: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Saturday defended its decision to extend PHP80,000 in livelihood assistance to ‘Rose,’ the woman photographed crawling out of a Makati sewer. According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao clarified at a news forum that Rose is among the families and individuals in street situations (FISS) profiled by the agency for tailored support. Dumlao explained that because these individuals lack permanent addresses, many have not benefited from the government’s social protection programs, such as the 4Ps. Rose was not surveyed for the 4Ps and does not have children under

Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) has refuted circulating online claims that a lockdown is being enforced in the country due to mpox (monkeypox). The department is urging the public to rely only on information provided through its official social media channels. According to Philippines News Agency, the DOH stated that there is currently no need to impose a lockdown as mpox is not considered airborne. The department noted that while mpox cases in 2024 and April this year were substantially higher compared to those in May, this does not necessitate a lockdown. A graph shared with the media illustrated

Manila: The Philippines is set to welcome the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, for her official visit from June 1 to 2. This visit is a significant event as it marks Kallas’ first time in the country following her appointment in December. According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) emphasized the importance of this visit as a milestone in the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the European Union. It signifies a mutual commitment to fostering open political dialogue and enhancing cooperation with the