Category: General

Manila: The Department of Education (DepEd) announced on Monday that it has launched an investigation into allegations of ‘ghost students’ or undocumented beneficiaries within 12 private schools across nine divisions. According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the importance of safeguarding public funds allocated under the Senior High School (SHS) voucher program. He stated, “We take these allegations seriously. Any form of misuse of public funds intended for critical education programs will not be tolerated.” The investigation may lead to the termination of the involved schools’ participation in the SHS voucher program if fraudulent activities are confirmed. Angara

Doha: Lebanon left Gilas Pilipinas gasping for air in a 75-54 rout early Sunday (PH time) in the Doha International Cup at QU Sports and Events Center in the Qatari capital. The Lebanese, who did not field top gunners Wael Arakji and Omari Spellman for the friendly tournament, turned to their defense to beat the Filipinos. According to Philippines News Agency, down 40-46 with three minutes left in the third quarter, Lebanon ended the period on an 11-2 run to take a 51-48 lead before going 24-6 in the fourth frame to pull away for good. Overall, Lebanon limited Gilas

Piddig: The historic town of Piddig, Ilocos Norte showcased its ingenuity and cultural pride by dominating this year’s Tan-ok ni Ilocano (Greatness of Ilocano) Festival with its Basi Revolt reenactment. According to Philippines News Agency, the grand celebration of Ilocano heritage not only highlighted artistic excellence but also created job opportunities and inspired the youth to cherish their identity. Held at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Sports Stadium here on Saturday, Piddig’s re-enactment of the September 1807 revolt moved thousands of in-person and online viewers on Saturday evening as the cultural performance vividly depicted the Ilocano values of courage, resilience, and

Munich: The United States and the Philippines have engaged in discussions regarding the significance of their development cooperation amidst an ongoing review of foreign aid by the US. According to Philippines News Agency, the topic was a focal point during a meeting between Philippine Secretary Enrique Manalo and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The meeting occurred on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Germany on February 14. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) emphasized the importance of the bilateral development cooperation, acknowledging the ongoing review by the US administration, which could impact various development projects. DFA spokesperson

Tagum City: Senatorial candidates from the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas coalition have pledged to prioritize legislation aimed at resolving power supply issues in Region 11 (Davao) if they secure victory in the upcoming May 12 mid-term elections. According to Philippines News Agency, during a campaign rally held in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, reelectionist Senator Francis Tolentino highlighted the potential impact of Senate Bill 2888, which was recently passed and is expected to bolster the regional economy by extending the service areas of Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. (DLPC). Tolentino expressed hope that this initiative would benefit both