General

Taguig City: The Department of Science and Technology – Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) and the Aptos Foundation have collaborated to launch the Hiraya Network in the Philippines. This initiative aims to empower Filipino innovators and researchers, particularly in blockchain technology and Web3. According to Philippines News Agency, the Hiraya Network will provide startups, universities, and innovators with access to the Aptos Foundation’s extensive network. This collaboration is expected to offer wider access to funding opportunities, alongside essential training and upskilling. Emerson Fonseca, CEO of The BLOKC, emphasized the abundance of talent in the Philippines and the lack of

Siargao: Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered the immediate expansion of Siargao Airport to address passenger congestion. In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s order to improve the travel experience for all passengers, Dizon said he ordered the removal of the airport’s VIP lounge to provide more space for passengers, and other improvements in the tourist gateway. According to Philippines News Agency, Filipinos and tourists alike are experiencing cramped and hot conditions at the airport. Dizon stated that the removal of the VIP lounge would free up space for passengers. This statement followed an inspection of the airport on

Manila: The country’s financial system remained resilient and stable despite global challenges driven by geopolitical tensions and policy shifts, as affirmed by the Financial Stability Coordination Council (FSCC). According to Philippines News Agency, the FSCC, an inter-agency council including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the Department of Finance (DOF), the Insurance Commission (IC), the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC), and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), released its 2024 Financial Stability Report (FSR) on Thursday. The report attributed the stability of the financial system to factors such as declining inflation, robust output growth, and ample international reserves. The report

Manila: Low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific (CEB) announced Wednesday the acquisition of new ground support equipment to boost operations in Manila and other key hubs. New high-capacity tow tractors, mobile passenger steps, boarding ramps, deck loaders, catering trucks, and electric baggage tractors will be deployed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 2 and 3 and other domestic hubs. According to Philippines News Agency, these equipment upgrades are designed to enhance aircraft turnaround times and support overall operational efficiency. “As we continue to expand our operations, it is important that we also invest in the right equipment to maintain operational

Manila: A couple with an International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) red notice was arrested for swindling and syndicated estafa, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) announced on Thursday. CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III stated that the couple, identified as ‘Cerrone’ and ‘Marve’ from Davao City, were apprehended at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 in Para±aque City on Wednesday. According to Philippines News Agency, courts in Cebu, Davao, Tacloban, and Quezon City issued warrants for the couple’s arrest without bail for violating Article 315 (swindling/estafa) of the Revised Penal Code. Cerrone served as president and