MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has briefed the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) on its ongoing investigation into so-called “ghost” Super Health Centers, or facilities funded by government but still idle or incomplete despite reported completion, on Friday morning. In a press conference, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said around 300 facilities remained non-operational based on the department’s latest review, up from 297 earlier reported. He clarified that out of 818 funded centers, about 500 have been completed, while 300 are still under construction. “When we reviewed the Super Health Centers, there are 818 that have been actually funded. About 500 were completed, and the remaining 300 are ongoing,” Herbosa said. “Among those completed, we checked how many are functional and how many are not — that’s the 300.” He explained that the DOH was now using the term “ready for occupancy” to better classify centers that are physically built but not yet operational. “Some projects were marked ‘completed’ but turned out to be only phase one,” Herbosa noted. Herbosa said the agency would continue case-building to identify whether these projects were delayed, misreported, or neglected, with the ICI providing oversight. He added that not all inactive facilities involve anomalies, as some remain non-operational due to missing utilities or staffing delays. “What we’re seeing are “obstacles to operations” — sometimes no power, no water, or no local personnel. The local government is responsible for connecting utilities and hiring doctors, nurses, and midwives. The DOH only provides the infrastructure grant,” Herbosa said. The health chief also noted that health facilities underwent stricter controls than other public works, since contractors must first submit detailed architectural and engineering designs approved by the DOH’s licensing bureau before construction begins. A permit to construct is only issued once requirements are met, followed by a license to operate after completion. Preliminary ICI figures show that since 2021, 878 Super Health Centers have been funded under the Health Facility Enhancement Program (HFEP). Of these, 365 are in various stages of construction, 196 are operational, 17 are partially operational, and 300 remain non-operational.

• The Manila Times
• 1 gün, 4 saat, 44 dakika

MANILA, Philippines — Tropical Depression Ramil slightly intensified as it moved over the Philippine Sea on Friday morning, according to the state weather bureau. In its 11 a.m. cyclone advisory, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said Ramil was last monitored 760 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes. READ: Signal No. 1 raised in Luzon, Visayas as Tropical Depression Ramil forms It is moving southwestward at 25 kilometers per hour (kph), with maximum sustained winds of 55 kph near the center and gusts of up to 80 kph. Due to the weather system’s slight intensification, the following areas in […]... Keep on reading: Ramil intensifies as it moves over the Philippine Sea

• Inquirer
• 1 gün, 4 saat, 45 dakika

Creative minds, this is your moment! Don't miss your chance to be the next creator of a Kapuso series!

• GMA Network
• 1 gün, 4 saat, 47 dakika

Iginiit ni Pokwang na hindi siya endorser ng kahit anong online sugal.

• GMA Network
• 1 gün, 4 saat, 48 dakika

“It’s Showtime” regular Karylle juggled two hosting schedules for a few days as she served as a guest host of the GMA morning show “Unang Hirit.” The actress-TV host was welcomed to the morning program on Tuesday, Oct. 14, as a “host-mate,” as seen in the clips on GMA’s YouTube channel. On her first day, Karylle was gifted with a jacket in which her name and “UH Host-mate” were written. On Wednesday, the actress also joined the show’s “Kitchen” and “Unang Chika” segments. The “Unang Hirit” hosts then expressed their gratitude to Karylle on the last day of her hosting […]... Keep on reading: Karylle enjoys stint as 'Unang Hirit' guest host: 'I feel the love'

• Inquirer
• 1 gün, 4 saat, 51 dakika

Jump into a world of discoveries and learnings in the upcoming episode of 'iBilib' this Sunday, 9:35 a.m., on GMA. Join award-winning host Chris Tiu, Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition's "Island Ate ng Cebu” Shuvee Etrata, and the ever-curious and loveable kiddo Mik-Mik as they answer questions about everything under the sun on 'iBilib' this Sunday, 9:35 a.m., on GMA.

• GMA Network
• 1 gün, 4 saat, 53 dakika

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that Tropical Depression “Ramil” intensified while moving over the West Philippine Sea. In its 11 a.m. bulletin, the weather bureau said the center of “Ramil” was estimated to be 760 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes, with maximum sustained winds of up to 55 km per hour near the center, gustiness of up to 70 kph. Its present movement is southwestward at 25 kph, with strong winds extending outwards of up to 350 km from the center. Signal no. 1 is hoisted over the following areas: Eastern and southern portions of Quezon including Polillo IslandsCamarines NorteCamarines SurAlbaySorsogonBurias IslandTicao IslandNorthern SamarNorthern portion of Eastern SamarNorthern portion of Samar It is expected that “Ramil” could make landfall over Catanduanes on Saturday afternoon and may also intensify into a tropical storm within the next 12 hours. Pagasa did not rule out that Ramil may intensify further into a severe tropical storm. “Ramil is forecast to move generally westward for the next 24 hours before turning west northwestward towards the area of Central-Southern Luzon. On the forecast track, the center of Ramil may make landfall over Catanduanes [on Saturday] afternoon. It will continue moving west northwestward and may make landfall in Aurora or Quezon on Sunday morning. After landfall, Ramil may traverse the rugged terrain of Northern or Central Luzon and will emerge over the West Philippine Sea by Sunday afternoon or evening and exits the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Monday morning or afternoon,” the weather bureau said.

• The Manila Times
• 1 gün, 4 saat, 53 dakika

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that Tropical Depression “Ramil” intensified while moving over the West Philippine Sea. In its 11 a.m. bulletin, the weather bureau said the center of “Ramil” was estimated to be 760 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes, with maximum sustained winds of up to 55 km per hour near the center, gustiness of up to 70 kph. Its present movement is southwestward at 25 kph, with strong winds extending outwards of up to 350 km from the center. Signal no. 1 is hoisted over the following areas: Eastern and southern portions of Quezon including Polillo IslandsCamarines NorteCamarines SurAlbaySorsogonBurias IslandTicao IslandNorthern SamarNorthern portion of Eastern SamarNorthern portion of Samar It is expected that “Ramil” could make landfall over Catanduanes on Saturday afternoon and may also intensify into a tropical storm within the next 12 hours. Pagasa did not rule out that Ramil may intensify further into a severe tropical storm. “Ramil is forecast to move generally westward for the next 24 hours before turning west northwestward towards the area of Central-Southern Luzon. On the forecast track, the center of Ramil may make landfall over Catanduanes [on Saturday] afternoon. It will continue moving west northwestward and may make landfall in Aurora or Quezon on Sunday morning. After landfall, Ramil may traverse the rugged terrain of Northern or Central Luzon and will emerge over the West Philippine Sea by Sunday afternoon or evening and exits the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Monday morning or afternoon,” the weather bureau said.

• The Manila Times
• 1 gün, 4 saat, 53 dakika

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that Tropical Depression “Ramil” intensified while moving over the West Philippine Sea. In its 11 a.m. bulletin, the weather bureau said the center of “Ramil” was estimated to be 760 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes, with maximum sustained winds of up to 55 km per hour near the center, gustiness of up to 70 kph. Its present movement is southwestward at 25 kph, with strong winds extending outwards of up to 350 km from the center. Signal no. 1 is hoisted over the following areas: Eastern and southern portions of Quezon including Polillo IslandsCamarines NorteCamarines SurAlbaySorsogonBurias IslandTicao IslandNorthern SamarNorthern portion of Eastern SamarNorthern portion of Samar It is expected that “Ramil” could make landfall over Catanduanes on Saturday afternoon and may also intensify into a tropical storm within the next 12 hours. Pagasa did not rule out that Ramil may intensify further into a severe tropical storm. “Ramil is forecast to move generally westward for the next 24 hours before turning west northwestward towards the area of Central-Southern Luzon. On the forecast track, the center of Ramil may make landfall over Catanduanes [on Saturday] afternoon. It will continue moving west northwestward and may make landfall in Aurora or Quezon on Sunday morning. After landfall, Ramil may traverse the rugged terrain of Northern or Central Luzon and will emerge over the West Philippine Sea by Sunday afternoon or evening and exits the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Monday morning or afternoon,” the weather bureau said.

• The Manila Times
• 1 gün, 4 saat, 53 dakika

Kiss lead guitarist and founding member Ace Frehley sadly passed away at the age of 74. According to reports, his agent confirmed that the musician died peacefully surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey, following a recent fall. "We are completely devastated and heartbroken. In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth," Ace's family said in a statement. "We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace's memory will continue to live on forever!" A tribute was also posted on Ace's Instagram account, following the announcement of his show cancellations due to medical issues. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ace Frehley (@acefrehleyofficial) Ace was part of the original lineup of rock band Kiss alongside Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, and Peter Criss. The guitarist was the first among the founding members to pass away. Kiss rose to fame in the mid-1970s, selling millions of albums and becoming a global pop culture phenomenon with their theatrical performances and striking makeup. Their performance included fire and fake blood spewing from the mouths of band members dressed in body armor, platform boots, wigs and signature black-and-white face paint. The legendary band's timeless hits include “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “Detroit Rock City,” and “I Was Made for Lovin' You.” Meanwhile, celebrate the memories of these seasoned Filipino celebrities who have taken their final bow in this gallery:

• GMA Network
• 1 gün, 5 saat, 2 dakika

MANILA, Philippines — Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez has ordered the deferment of the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) planned purchase of motor vehicles worth P50 million, redirecting the funds to upgrade the client service areas of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). In a memorandum dated Oct. 16, 2025, Lopez directed concerned officials to suspend the re-fleeting of vehicles for the DOTr central office, which was originally funded under the 2024 General Appropriations Act. The move, he said, was in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for government agencies to prioritize programs that directly benefit the public. “In compliance with the directive of the President to give the Filipino people the public transport and services that they need and deserve, the DOTr together with its sectoral offices shall undertake measures to improve delivery of services to the public,” the order stated. The P50 million allocation will instead be used to enhance LTO and LTFRB client areas, including facility improvements intended for public use. The DOTr said the procurement of new vehicles may be revisited in the following year, subject to the availability of funds. The announcement came as Lopez conducted his regular “commute check” to personally assess the daily experiences of Filipino commuters and identify areas for improvement. Braving early morning rain, Lopez began his trip at around 6:15 a.m. from Holy Spirit, Commonwealth, Quezon City, accompanied by Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Mark Steven Pastor and LTFRB Executive Director Loumer Bernabe. He boarded a bus bound for Philcoa, inspected the nearby public utility vehicle stop, and later took another bus toward Kamuning. Along the route, Lopez noted improved traffic flow and a greater number of buses servicing the Commonwealth Avenue corridor, citing LTFRB’s earlier issuance of 500 special permits to increase bus availability and reduce congestion. The acting secretary said both the fund reallocation and on-ground assessments are part of the agency’s broader effort to “redirect resources where they matter most — in improving services that directly affect the daily lives of Filipinos.”

• The Manila Times
• 1 gün, 5 saat, 3 dakika

'The actions of the Dasmariñas congressman should be covered using a more critical lens. Not doing so risks elevating a figure whose credentials crumble under scrutiny.'

• Rappler
• 1 gün, 5 saat, 3 dakika

MANILA, Philippines—On World Food Day, marine conservation group Oceana warned that the government’s push to open municipal waters to commercial fishing threatens to rob small-scale fishers of their livelihood, calling it nothing short of “stealing from the poorest.” In a statement on Thursday, Oceana decried the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) plan to amend the Fisheries Code to allow commercial fishing vessels to operate in municipal waters deeper than 20 fathoms—areas that are currently reserved for artisanal or small-scale fishers under Republic Act No. 10654. “This runs contrary to the President’s latest pronouncements on food security and poverty alleviation,” said Oceana […]... Keep on reading: Oceana slams gov’t bid to open municipal waters to big fishing

• Inquirer
• 1 gün, 5 saat, 4 dakika

'Cruz vs. Cruz' star Vina Morales is celebrating her birthday today (October 17).

• GMA Network
• 1 gün, 5 saat, 5 dakika

TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Coast Guard Station in Northern Samar has temporarily suspended on Friday voyages for all types of vessels and watercraft plying routes within its area of responsibility following the hoisting of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 due to Tropical Depression Ramil. READ: Signal No.1 raised in Luzon, Visayas due to Tropical Depression Ramil In an advisory issued, the Coast Guard stated the suspension covers the eastern portions of Northern Samar, including the towns of Laoang, Catubig, Palapag, Mapanas, Gamay, Lapinig, Pambujan, and San Roque. The directive aims to ensure the safety of passengers and vessels […]... Keep on reading: Coast Guard suspends sea travel in Northern Samar due to Ramil

• Inquirer
• 1 gün, 5 saat, 10 dakika

The first volume of 'Stranger Things' Season 5 comes out very soon.

• GMA Network
• 1 gün, 5 saat, 15 dakika