General

Abu Dhabi: In a landmark initiative, the United Arab Emirates and the Brazil Africa Institute (IBRAF) are partnering to enhance technical skills among young Africans. According to Philippines News Agency, the upcoming Youth Technical Training Programme (YTTP) will equip 50 professionals from both Angola and Guinea-Bissau with advanced skills and specialised expertise in the cocoa and cashew industries, respectively. The initiative reflects strong international cooperation, bringing together four countries from three continents – Asia, Africa, and South America. Aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals 2 (End Hunger), 4 (Quality Education), and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), the IBRAF programme

Tuguegarao City: A lone bettor from Cagayan hit the PHP57.5 million jackpot in the MegaLotto 6/45 draw held Friday night, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) announced on Saturday. According to Philippines News Agency, the ticket with the winning numbers 22-24-28-05-07-25 was purchased in Barangay Tanza, Tuguegarao City. The sole winner has a year to claim the PHP57,540,190 prize at the PCSO’s main office in Mandaluyong City. The prize will be subject to a 20 percent tax, and the ticket holder must present the winning ticket along with two valid IDs for verification. Meanwhile, 102 bettors won PHP32,000 each for

Manila: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is optimistic about increased participation as the month-long overseas voting commences on April 13. The initiative aims to engage more than 1.321 million registered Filipino voters abroad. According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia expressed hope during a Saturday interview, stating, “I hope we can at least get 50 percent of the 1.321 million voters because we are introducing Internet voting.” Garcia highlighted that 77 out of 93 posts abroad would facilitate Internet voting, allowing Filipinos to cast their votes via mobile devices, tablets, and laptops. Garcia encouraged unregistered voters to enroll

Manila: More than 10,000 police officers and force multipliers will be deployed across Metro Manila to ensure public safety during the Holy Week and summer vacation, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) announced Saturday. According to Philippines News Agency, strong police presence will be established at 300 churches with 1,071 officers, along major roads managing traffic with 791 officers, at transport hubs ensuring smooth journeys with 399 officers, in malls and business centers with 592 officers, and in parks and recreational spaces with 982 officers. These are among the security plans outlined by NCRPO Director Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin

Manila: The strong military ties between the Philippines and the United States were further highlighted following an introductory phone call between the respective National Security Advisers (NSAs) of the two governments on Friday. According to Philippines News Agency, National Security Adviser Eduardo A±o and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz of the United States held a phone call to discuss recent developments in the Philippines-United States Alliance. The National Security Council (NSC) shared in a media statement that the conversation revolved around the regional security situation, with a focus on the South China Sea/West Philippine Sea. The discussions included plans for