Category: General

MANILA: The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has unveiled a comprehensive roadmap aimed at enhancing the Philippines’ image and influence on the global stage. The Philippine Soft Power Roadmap, introduced on December 11, marks the culmination of a 14-month initiative led by the DFA Office of Public Diplomacy. According to Philippines News Agency, the roadmap is a result of extensive research and consultation workshops involving government and non-government stakeholders. It is designed to guide the country’s 98 foreign service posts worldwide in their efforts to project Philippine soft power. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo emphasized the potential of the Filipino

Manila: Ma. Luz Manalo, a Filipino research engineer, has made significant strides in Singapore’s green industry, leveraging her expertise in solar energy to contribute to global climate change mitigation efforts. Despite the challenges of working abroad, Manalo remains committed to her role at the Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS), where she develops solar cells vital to sustainable energy solutions. According to Philippines News Agency, Manalo’s journey began in the typhoon-prone province of Albay, Philippines, where she experienced the devastating effects of Super Typhoon Reming in 2006. This event sparked her determination to address climate change through sustainable solutions.

LEGAZPI CITY: At least 88 local government units (LGUs) in the Bicol Region were honored with the prestigious Gawad KALASAG award for their outstanding efforts in disaster risk reduction management (DRRM) and humanitarian assistance. The award ceremony, held at the Oriental Hotel, highlighted the proactive measures taken by these LGUs to enhance community resilience against disasters. According to Philippines News Agency, Claudio Yucot, the regional director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Bicol, emphasized the significance of the Gawad KALASAG as both a symbol of resilience and a platform showcasing the substantial contributions made by stakeholders in disaster

MANILA: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is exploring the possibility of allowing persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) to participate in elections through an Online Voting and Counting System (OVCS). This initiative is contingent upon the success of overseas internet voting trials, as stated by Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia. According to Philippines News Agency, Chairperson Garcia emphasized that the future implementation of internet voting for PDLs, people with disabilities (PWDs), and senior citizens would rely heavily on the results of internet voting conducted abroad. In a press conference following a memorandum of agreement signing at the Palacio del Gobernador, Garcia

MANILA: The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) has announced a significant investment of PHP1.5 billion aimed at fertilizing approximately 55,000 coconut palms in 2025 as part of the Coconut Fertilization Project. The initiative seeks to enhance yield and income for coconut farmers through the application of agricultural-grade salt fertilizer and organic compost. According to Philippines News Agency, PCA Administrator Dr. Dexter Buted outlined the project’s components during the second Salt Congress, emphasizing the rehabilitation of low-bearing mature palms. The project will use agricultural grade salt fertilizer (AGSF) and compost produced from biodegradable waste to improve soil conditions. Incentives will also be