Legarda hails Filipino voice at Impressions of an Archipelago in Frankfurt

Legarda hails Filipino voice at Impressions of an Archipelago in Frankfurt

FRANKFURT, Germany – Sen. Loren Legarda spoke about the lasting strength of Filipino identity and the value of working together. She made these remarks at the launch of Impressions of an Archipelago: Spanish Travellers and Writings on the Philippines, which took place on October 16 during the Philippines’ Guest of Honour program at the 77th Frankfurt Book Fair. Legarda began by recalling the Philippines before colonization, describing it as a nation known for trade, governance, and rich languages. “Long before the first chroniclers set ink to paper, the Philippines was already a nation of thought and discernment,” the senator said. […]... Keep on reading: Legarda hails Filipino voice at Impressions of an Archipelago in Frankfurt

Celebrity graduates of 2025

Celebrity graduates of 2025

Being a working student is no easy feat, but many showbiz personalities choose to juggle their careers and complete their studies. Take BINI members Gwen and Jhoanna as an example. They temporarily traded their OOTDs as P-pop queens for their togas as they completed senior high school. Time to celebrate and be inspired by these celebrities who sacrificed so much to finish their school this year. Meet our amazing celebrity graduates of 2025 in this gallery.

Retired military officers warned of losing pensions for spreading fake news

Retired military officers warned of losing pensions for spreading fake news

MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Saturday it was studying the revocation of pensions of retired soldiers found guilty of spreading fake news or inciting unrest on social media. Col. Francel Padilla, AFP spokesman, said the move aimed to address reports that some former military personnel have been posting false information and messages that encouraged dissent against the government. “The AFP is looking into the matter. If the legal channels determine that this is so, then we will follow,” Padilla said in a media forum. Padilla confirmed that the highest-ranking officer being monitored for allegedly spreading disinformation is a retired two-star general who receives a monthly pension of about P160,000. She did not disclose the officer’s identity, citing ongoing verification and legal review. She added that while the AFP respected the freedom of expression of retired personnel, those who used their influence to spread falsehoods or incite disorder could face administrative and legal consequences. Padilla said the AFP was coordinating with concerned agencies to determine what sanctions may be applied under existing laws and pension regulations.

Emma Tiglao secures spot in Miss Grand International 2025 national costume Top 20

Emma Tiglao secures spot in Miss Grand International 2025 national costume Top 20

Emma Tiglao secured a spot in the Top 20 Best National Costume competition of Miss Grand International 2025 ahead of the coronation night. According to the official announcement posted by Miss Grand International on Friday, Oct. 17, Tiglao was among the 10 candidates who advanced through fan votes.  The Philippine representative joined representatives from Vietnam, […]... Keep on reading: Emma Tiglao secures spot in Miss Grand International 2025 national costume Top 20

Makati expands job program to 5K beneficiaries

Makati expands job program to 5K beneficiaries

MANILA, Philippines – Around 5,000 beneficiaries joined the first and second day of the Pantawid Trabaho Program orientation at the Makati Coliseum, where Mayor Nancy Binay urged residents to seize new livelihood opportunities under the city’s employment initiatives. The city government announced Friday evening that the program aimed to provide temporary work to residents through 15-day assignments in various departments and barangay offices as part of Makati’s livelihood support drive. City councilors Mayeth Casal-Uy, Ferdie Eusebio, Arlene Ortega, Levy Ramboyong, Bernadette Sese, King Yabut, Ina Sarosa, Maribel Vitales, Joel Ariones, and Tristan Pangilinan attended the event to support the city’s push for wider access to employment programs. Also present were Public Employment Service Office Officer-in-Charge Romulo Salgado Jr. and Makati Action Center and Youth and Sports Development Department Officer-in-Charge Leslie Umaly, who both oversee the implementation of livelihood and assistance programs for Makatizens. In an earlier report, Mayor Binay led an orientation at the same venue for about 2,000 youth beneficiaries under the city’s internship program. That initiative, held last month, formed part of Makati’s continuing strategy to expand training and job assistance for residents. The latest 5,000-strong participation under the Pantawid Trabaho Program highlights the city’s effort to provide short-term employment while promoting inclusive livelihood opportunities across its communities.

Kapuso beauties grace the runway at Manila Fashion Week

Kapuso beauties grace the runway at Manila Fashion Week

The Manila Fashion Week , previously known as the BYS Fashion Week, officially kicked off on Thursday, October 16, at SM Aura Premier in Taguig City. For this year, eight Filipino designers and brands take part in the four-day fashion event, including Chris Nick. Known for his elegant and sultry pieces, Chris Nick showcased his newest collection on the second day of Manila Fashion Week last Friday, October 17. In a short interview with GMA Lifestyle, Chris Nick said his latest collection highlighted the shades of beige and featured pieces that are tailored and sensual. His collection was modeled by some of his celebrity muses and friends, including Kapuso stars Rhian Ramos, Max Collins, and Kyline Alcantara. Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee was also in attendance at the front row of the show to support Chris Nick. Take a look at some of the highlights of Chris Nick's show at the Manila Fashion Week here:

Govt launches emergency employment for quake-hit workers in Cebu, Davao

Govt launches emergency employment for quake-hit workers in Cebu, Davao

MANILA, Philippines — Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma on Saturday announced that the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has rolled out its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program to assist workers affected by recent earthquakes in Cebu and Davao. In an interview, Laguesma said the emergency employment program would provide at least 10 days of work and corresponding financial assistance to thousands of displaced workers in both regions. “Right after the earthquakes in Cebu and Davao, our regional personnel immediately conducted assessments,” Laguesma said. “In Cebu, around 5,900 beneficiaries were initially identified, with P35.9 million allocated for their wages. In Davao, about 5,400 beneficiaries will receive assistance amounting to roughly P28 million.” Under TUPAD, beneficiaries will be engaged in short-term community work such as clearing debris, cleaning canals and schools, removing water hyacinths that block waterways, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites to prevent dengue outbreaks. Some will also help in restoring affected tourist sites to revive local livelihoods. Laguesma said that workers need not apply directly to DOLE to join the program since the agency coordinates with local government units to identify eligible beneficiaries. “Our regional and provincial offices work closely with LGUs, who are the first to know which barangay were affected. DOLE then validates these lists to make sure the program remains inclusive,” he said. The labor chief said wages would be released immediately after the 10-day work period, either through face-to-face payout or remittance centers to ensure beneficiaries receive the full amount. “In Cebu, the minimum daily wage is P540, and the same goes for Davao,” he added. “They will receive their full 10-day pay without deductions.” Beyond emergency employment, Laguesma said affected workers may also access other DOLE assistance programs such as livelihood grants to help them recover in the longer term. “Temporary employment serves as a bridge for our workers to get back on their feet,” he said. “After TUPAD, we make sure they can access more sustainable opportunities through our livelihood initiatives.”

Geneva Cruz, Gerald Santos pay courtesy call at PH Embassy in Papua New Guinea

Geneva Cruz, Gerald Santos pay courtesy call at PH Embassy in Papua New Guinea

Geneva Cruz and Gerald Santos paid a courtesy call at the Embassy of the Philippines in Papua New Guinea ahead of their upcoming show, “Pinoy Pride Night.” In an Instagram post on Friday, Oct. 17, Santos shared photos of their visit and expressed gratitude to the embassy staff for their hospitality.  “Had a courtesy call here at the Embassy of the Philippines in Papua New Guinea! Thank you to Consul Jom Sadie and the rest of the Embassy staff for the warm welcome!” he wrote. The “Pinoy Pride Night” event on Saturday night, Oct. 18, in Papua New Guinea will […]... Keep on reading: Geneva Cruz, Gerald Santos pay courtesy call at PH Embassy in Papua New Guinea

LTO chief warns dealers over plate delays, illegal green plate use

LTO chief warns dealers over plate delays, illegal green plate use

MANILA, Philippines — Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief Assistant Secretary Marcus Lacanilao has ordered a review of the role of vehicle dealers amid reports that some have been withholding license plates or charging unauthorized fees from vehicle owners. In an interview on Saturday, Lacanilao said erring dealers could face sanctions, including the possible revocation of their accreditation, if found to be delaying the release of plates or profiting from plate-related requests. “Dealers who delay or hold back the release of plates will face sanctions, including possible revocation of accreditation,” he said. “We’ve received reports that some charge extra for plate requests or for specific plate endings — that’s strictly prohibited.” The LTO chief also confirmed an ongoing probe into the illegal issuance of green plates, which are meant exclusively for electric and hybrid vehicles, to conventional fuel-powered cars. According to Lacanilao, two diesel-powered vehicles — a Nissan Terra and a Nissan Calibre — were recently caught using green plates to evade the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority’s number coding scheme. “We suspect collusion between some LTO personnel and dealers in these cases,” Lacanilao said. “Anyone found involved — whether from inside the LTO or from dealerships — will be held liable.” He added that the LTO is now reviewing policies governing the distribution of license plates to prevent abuse by dealers and ensure that plates reach vehicle owners promptly. Lacanilao also reminded motorists without official plates to obtain an authorization to travel from the LTO, emphasizing that temporary plates issued by dealers are not sufficient. “If you have no plate but you carry an LTO-issued travel authorization, you won’t be apprehended. But if you don’t have that, you will be fined,” he said. The LTO chief said the agency is conducting an audit of plate distribution nationwide while investigating possible irregularities involving both internal staff and accredited dealers.

CABC’s 3rd Boysen Cup tips off Sunday

CABC’s 3rd Boysen Cup tips off Sunday

CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu Architects Basketball Club (CABC) is set to wrap up its 2025 season with the 3rd Boysen Cup, which tips off Sunday, October 19, at the Game Changer in Mandaue City. Six teams composed of licensed Cebuano architects under the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) will battle for the […]... Keep on reading: CABC’s 3rd Boysen Cup tips off Sunday