‘Only G and PG contents allowed in public transport’

‘Only G and PG contents allowed in public transport’

PUBLIC transport operators and drivers have been reminded that only G (General Patronage) and PG (Parental Guidance) rated contents are allowed to be shown inside public utility vehicles while in transit. The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), in a statement emailed to The Manila Times on Wednesday, issued the reminder in anticipation of the expected surge in travelers and increased commuter volume this holiday season. The reminder applies to all forms of audio-visual materials displayed or played inside public transport, including buses and other vehicles that provide public conveyance, MTRCB Chairman Lala Sotto said. She explained that the policy was in accordance with a presidential decree and a 2004 Revised MTRCB Implementing Rules and Regulations, which mandate transport operators and drivers to ensure that materials accessible to passengers are appropriate for general audiences, especially children. “This is part of our larger responsibility to ensure that every commuter, particularly commuting Filipino children, will experience a safe and family-friendly environment, even while in transit,” Sotto said.

ISIS in Philippines ‘down but not out’ – watchdog

ISIS in Philippines ‘down but not out’ – watchdog

(UPDATE) WHILE disputing claims that the Philippines remains a global terrorism hotspot, the Climate Conflict Action Asia (CCAA) warned that Dawla Islamiya, also known as ISIS or Daesh in the Philippines, has not been eliminated and continues to pose a security concern. In a statement issued days after the deadly Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney earlier this month, according to the CCAA, the extremist group was significantly degraded by sustained military operations since the 2017 Marawi siege, but argued that recent developments show the threat persists. “Dawla Islamiya is down but not out,” the group said, pointing to the government’s announcement just a month earlier of the neutralization of two ISIS leaders, Abu Jihad and Mohammad Usman Suleiman. According to CCAA, these operations demonstrated that while large-scale extremist activity has declined, militant networks and leadership elements remain active. The group said the Bondi Beach incident reinforced the need for continued vigilance, especially amid indications of renewed extremist activity in areas previously considered free of violent extremism, including parts of Basilan. CCAA added that it has observed signs of increased mobilization and polarization, citing renewed recruitment efforts targeting the youth and cases of young people breaking away from their families and clans. It also reported a spike in violent encounters between government forces and extremist-linked groups in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) following the recent midterm elections. The organization called on the Philippine government, as well as peacebuilding and development groups, to strengthen reintegration programs for former violent extremism combatants and their families. It emphasized that current approaches should move beyond a limited focus on preventing and countering violent extremism, urging more community-based and early-response initiatives anchored on sustainable reintegration and a restorative justice framework. CCAA said it remained committed to evidence-based analysis in addressing violent extremism and cautioned against speculation while investigations into the Bondi Beach attack are ongoing. “Premature conclusions that lack evidence risk fueling religious- and identity-based conflict and may obscure the deeper and more complex drivers of violence and radicalization,” the group said.

Cyclone-free Christmas Day likely in PH – Pagasa

Cyclone-free Christmas Day likely in PH – Pagasa

FILIPINOS are likely to experience a fair-weather on Christmas Day, the state-run weather agency said, noting that it has not spotted any low-pressure area entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility in the next few days. Weather specialist Daniel James Villamil of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said that in the meantime, the easterlies would prevail over Metro Manila and the rest of the country, causing partly cloudy to overcast skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms. The same weather system, which brings humid and warm temperatures, would bring cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms to the Bicol Region and Quezon Province, Villamil said. The northeast monsoon, locally known as “amihan,” would prevail over Cagayan, Isabela, and Aurora, where cloudy skies with light rains would be likely in 24 hours, the national weather bureau said. Amihan would also be experienced over Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, the rest of Cagayan Valley, and the rest of Central Luzon, where partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains would be likely, it added.

Go’s Malasakit team helps fire victims in Cavite

Go’s Malasakit team helps fire victims in Cavite

SEN. Bong Go’s Malasakit Team on Wednesday extended assistance to families displaced by a fire that hit Barangay Dulong Bayan in Bacoor City, Cavite. In a message relayed to the affected residents, Go expressed sympathy for the victims and highlighted the irreplaceable value of human life amid material loss. He reminded them that while property and income can be recovered, lives lost in disasters cannot be replaced. He also emphasized the importance of solidarity and mutual support in times of crisis, saying Filipinos must rely on one another during emergencies and reaffirming his commitment to public service. The assistance was carried out in coordination with local government officials and barangay leaders. A total of 88 affected families received grocery packs, snacks, vitamins, water containers, shirts, electric fans, and balls for children, aimed at addressing both immediate needs and basic comfort while families recover. Go, a former special assistant to the president and a longtime advocate of disaster response reforms, pointed out the importance of stronger fire prevention and emergency response systems. He is the principal author and co-sponsor of Republic Act (RA) 11589, or the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Modernization Act, which provides for the upgrading of fire and rescue equipment, the hiring of additional firefighters, and the conduct of specialized training programs to improve the BFP’s capacity to respond quickly and effectively to fires and other emergencies. He also cited RA 12076, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which mandates the establishment of permanent, safe, and well-equipped evacuation centers in all cities and municipalities nationwide. As principal author and co-sponsor of the law, Go said the measure aims to ensure the safety, dignity, and basic needs of disaster-affected families while facilitating faster recovery. “I hope the evacuation centers will be prioritized. It is now the law that evacuation centers be set up so that our countrymen can feel comfort during disasters,” Go said. The senator added that meaningful assistance and compassion should be extended whenever possible, urging communities to help one another in moments of hardship. The fire in Barangay Dulong Bayan left dozens of families temporarily homeless, adding to the series of residential fires that typically rise during the dry season, according to disaster officials.

DOH: Acute NCD cases up, 2 deaths recorded

DOH: Acute NCD cases up, 2 deaths recorded

RECORDED cases of acute non-communicable disease (NCD) complications rose during the holidays, with two deaths reported, according to the Department of Health (DOH) monitoring data. The figures came from 10 DOH pilot sites that tracked cases from Dec. 21, 2025, to 4:59 a.m. on Dec. 24. One death was linked to acute stroke and another to acute coronary syndrome, highlighting the ongoing risks posed by NCDs even during the festive season. Acute coronary syndrome logged 25 cases, with patients aged 60 to 69 accounting for the largest share at 14 cases. Acute stroke recorded 45 cases, with the same age group posting the most at 15 cases. Bronchial asthma was less common but still notable, registering nine cases, with children aged zero to nine comprising the highest number at four cases. The DOH noted that these conditions often worsen during the holidays due to lifestyle factors. Overeating, increased alcohol consumption, disrupted routines, and higher stress levels can trigger acute episodes, particularly among older adults with underlying heart or vascular conditions. As part of its holiday health advisory, the DOH urged the public to monitor their health and seek immediate medical attention for warning signs such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, numbness, or weakness in any part of the body. The department also reminded the public to maintain normal blood pressure, stay physically active, and avoid smoking to reduce the risk of stroke and heart complications. For those with bronchial asthma, avoiding triggers such as dust, smoke, and strong odors, keeping surroundings clean, and always carrying inhalers and prescribed medication are critical preventive measures. Emergency assistance is available nationwide through the 911 Emergency Hotline or the 1555 DOH Emergency Number, the agency said, stressing that timely intervention can save lives, particularly during high-risk holiday periods.

2 more Navotas villages declared drug-cleared

2 more Navotas villages declared drug-cleared

THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has declared two more villages — Bagumbayan South and North Bay Boulevard North in Navotas City, cleared of illegal drugs. Jubilant by the declaration, Mayor John Rey Tiangco, together with members of the city council, personally handed the PDEA certificates to Bagumbayan South Barangay Chairman Joselito Sulit and North Bay Boulevard North Barangay Chairman Noel Aviles in recognition of the achievement. “This accomplishment reflects the strong cooperation between the villages, our law enforcement partners, and the community,” Tiangco said. “We urge Navoteños to be vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or activities to TXT JRT. Let us continue working together to win this fight and keep our city and people safe,” he added. Among Navotas’ 18 villages, Bagumbayan South and North Bay Boulevard North are now the 15th and 16th to be declared drug-cleared. They join other villages that have successfully retained their drug-cleared status, namely: North Bay Boulevard South (NBBS), Dagat-dagatan, NBBS Proper, NBBS Kaunlaran, Navotas East, Navotas West, Tanza I, Tanza II, San Rafael Village, Bagumbayan North, Sipac-Almacen, Bangkulasi, Daanghari, San Roque, and San Jose. PDEA declared the two villages as drug-cleared as of Dec. 18, 2025, following a thorough assessment and validation process that confirmed their compliance with provisions of a Dangerous Drugs Board regulation. This includes ensuring that drug personalities on the barangay's unified watchlist are given appropriate interventions, maintaining a drug-free workplace, and sustaining active anti-drug advocacy among barangay officials. Navotas' anti-drug initiatives are anchored on its community-based treatment and rehabilitation program known as Bidahan, which provides rehabilitation and counseling, as well as an aftercare program that runs for six and 18 months, respectively. In addition to Bidahan, the city government continues to strengthen its anti-drug campaign through drug awareness and prevention lectures for Navoteño students, random and mandatory drug testing for city hall and barangay employees and program beneficiaries, and sustained drug-clearing of villages, the Navotas mayor said.

It's Showtime: BOHOLANA ANGELS, HINDI INAASAHANG MA-GONG! (December 24, 2025) (Part 4/4)

It's Showtime: BOHOLANA ANGELS, HINDI INAASAHANG MA-GONG! (December 24, 2025) (Part 4/4)

Aired (December 24, 2025): Ipinaliwanag ng mga hurado kung bakit na-gong ang duo ng Boholana Angels na sina Alexa at Orfeshaine. Panoorin ang video. #GMANetwork Madlang Kapuso, join the FUNanghalian with #ItsShowtime family. Watch the latest episode of 'It's Showtime' hosted by Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro, Karylle, Jhong Hilario, Amy Perez, Kim Chui, Jugs & Teddy, MC & Lassy, Ogie Alcasid, Darren, Jackie, Cianne, Ryan Bang, and Ion Perez.

It's Showtime: BOHOLANA ANGELS, HINDI INAASAHANG MA-GONG! (December 24, 2025) (Part 4/4)

It's Showtime: BOHOLANA ANGELS, HINDI INAASAHANG MA-GONG! (December 24, 2025) (Part 4/4)

Aired (December 24, 2025): Ipinaliwanag ng mga hurado kung bakit na-gong ang duo ng Boholana Angels na sina Alexa at Orfeshaine. Panoorin ang video. #GMANetwork Madlang Kapuso, join the FUNanghalian with #ItsShowtime family. Watch the latest episode of 'It's Showtime' hosted by Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro, Karylle, Jhong Hilario, Amy Perez, Kim Chui, Jugs & Teddy, MC & Lassy, Ogie Alcasid, Darren, Jackie, Cianne, Ryan Bang, and Ion Perez.

It's Showtime: Lucky player, maging merry kaya ang Christmas? (December 24, 2025) (Part 3/4)

It's Showtime: Lucky player, maging merry kaya ang Christmas? (December 24, 2025) (Part 3/4)

Aired (December 24, 2025): Piliin kaya ni Player Jairus ang POT na nagkakahalaga ng P100,000, o LI-POT na nagkakahalaga ng P30,000? Alamin sa video na ito. #GMANetwork Madlang Kapuso, join the FUNanghalian with #ItsShowtime family. Watch the latest episode of 'It's Showtime' hosted by Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro, Karylle, Jhong Hilario, Amy Perez, Kim Chui, Jugs & Teddy, MC & Lassy, Ogie Alcasid, Darren, Jackie, Cianne, Ryan Bang, and Ion Perez.

It's Showtime: Gaano nga ba katamis ang halik ni Jesus? (December 24, 2025) (Part 2/4)

It's Showtime: Gaano nga ba katamis ang halik ni Jesus? (December 24, 2025) (Part 2/4)

Aired (December 24, 2025): Parang kahit sino ay lalanggamin kung ganito katamis magmahal si Jesus. #GMANetwork Madlang Kapuso, join the FUNanghalian with #ItsShowtime family. Watch the latest episode of 'It's Showtime' hosted by Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro, Karylle, Jhong Hilario, Amy Perez, Kim Chui, Jugs & Teddy, MC & Lassy, Ogie Alcasid, Darren, Jackie, Cianne, Ryan Bang, and Ion Perez.