News & Current Events

#Chexit: PH wins case on West Philippine Sea vs China
July 12, 2016

#Chexit: PH wins case on West Philippine Sea vs China

PH WINS. The West Philippine Sea rightfully belongs to PH, The UN Arbitral Tribunal said. Photo grabbed from dzrhnews.com   On Tuesday afternoon, the United Nations Arbitral Tribunal has finally decided on ruling the arbitration case in favor of the Philippines regarding the case of West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) against China. In a press release made public by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands, it was stated that “The Tribunal concluded that there was no legal basis for China to claim historic rights to resources within the sea areas falling within the ‘nine-dash line.” Also, The Tribunal was said to found that “China had violated […]
Gotta Catch ‘em All: Pokemon Go in the Philippines
July 12, 2016

Gotta Catch ‘em All: Pokemon Go in the Philippines

It’s already taken over people’s lives in the US, Australia, and New Zealand. It’s the latest craze that’s sweeping the globe: Niantic’s Pokémon GO.   IT’S ALMOST READY TO take over the world of mobile gaming. Pokémon GO, an augmented reality (AR) game lets users feel like they are capturing live Pokémon. Image courtesy of Pokémon Go Philippines.   But what exactly is Pokémon GO, and why have Filipinos been posting or sharing memes and videos about it? What is Pokémon GO? First things first: what is Pokémon GO? In this blog post on their website, creator Niantic Labs described the game in the best possible way. It’s an app […]
911 emergency, 8888 complaint hotlines to be launched in PH this August
July 12, 2016

911 emergency, 8888 complaint hotlines to be launched in PH this August

The 911 emergency and 8888 complaint hotlines will be available 24/7 in the Philippines this coming August, according to Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar.   (Photo credit: Pilipinas 911)   The hotline number ‘8888’ will serve as the hotline for citizen complaints, while ‘911’ emergency hotline will be for nationwide emergency response center. Dialing these hotline numbers will make the emergency process easier and more efficient for the citizens because it immediately connects with all the government’s emergency response resources, like ambulances, fire-fighters, rescue technicians and the police. While this rescue system was first launched and effectively used in Davao in the Philippines, President Rodrigo Duterte said he would like […]
Globe Telecom expands in Japan
July 11, 2016

Globe Telecom expands in Japan

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Japan and their loved ones here in the Philippines need not worry about lost connections as Globe Telecom expands its coverage to Japan via GlobeTel Japan Inc.   ALWAYS STAY CONNECTED. Set to open its doors in Japan to better serve their customers both here and in the land of the rising sun, Globe has been offering DUO JAPAN promo dedicated to Filipinos in Japan to stay connected with their loved ones. (Photo credit: Globe Telecom official Facebook page)   In a statement released last Monday, July 4, Globe said the move puts the company in a “better position to serve the communications needs of […]
DOH set to prioritize ‘mental health’
July 11, 2016

DOH set to prioritize ‘mental health’

On July 7, the Department of Health (DOH) signed a memorandum on July 7 in partnership with the Natasha Goulbourn Foundation (NGF) to establish a 24/7 suicide counseling hotline in the country.     The hotline, which will be called “Hopeline,” is expected to roll out in September. This phone-based hotline shall be used for crisis support for depression and suicide prevention. This will also serve as a “portal to link people with deep emotional crisis to mental health professionals such as psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors, and other concerned institutions” which can help them with their needs. HOPELINE will be facilitated by trained “crisis responders” who shall answer the calls and […]
The July Issue of Philippine Primer is Now Available!
July 08, 2016

The July Issue of Philippine Primer is Now Available!

Philippine Primer: English edition saunters the ins and outs of Ayala Avenue this July!   Street: Ayala Avenue Ayala Avenue is Makati’s central business district and is dubbed as the ‘Wall Street of the Philippines’. This cosmopolitan and fast-paced business locale is also home to some of the metro’s finest establishments that cater to urban lifestyle needs.  The stretch of Ayala offers endless dining options as well as some laidback attractions. Here we feature the stops that should definitely be on your list of hang-out places for some good food and chill time. Check out the food courts located in high-rises that offer cheap to fancy food choices. Scout for […]
PPO gets renowned Japanese maestro as new music director
July 07, 2016

PPO gets renowned Japanese maestro as new music director

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) is set to reach new heights as renowned Japanese conductor Yoshikazu Fukumura is presented as the new music director during a press conference held at Hotel Jen in Pasay City yesterday, July 6.   A NEW DAY FOR THE PPO. Maestro Yoshikazu Fukumura is welcomed by CCP President Raul M. Sunico and CCP Vice President and Artistic Director Chris B. Millado.   Maestro Fukumura takes over for outgoing music director Maestro Olivier Ochanine, who concluded his term as music director last April 30 2016. He is recognized as one of the most revered maestros in Japan, being the former music director of Tokyo Ballet, Kyoto […]
Cebu named as one of top summer destinations by top Japanese travel website
July 06, 2016

Cebu named as one of top summer destinations by top Japanese travel website

Ring the Filipino pride bell anew as another Philippine destination, Cebu, was named to AB-Road’s top summer destinations for 2016.   CORAL REEF BEACH. According to ab-road.net, Cebu is the third most popular summer destination for 2016. In the photo is Coral Reef Beach, a popular destination within Cebu. Photo courtesy of Patrick Tumalad via flickr.   In a press release dated July 4, 2016, AB-Road.net, an overseas travel search and comparison site, revealed its top summer destinations for Japanese looking to go overseas for short-term trips. Cebu ranked third among the destinations listed, which includes Oahu, Hawaii and Taipei, Taiwan, ranked first and second respectively. Other destinations that made […]
Forever free: Admission to National Museum free of charge
July 05, 2016

Forever free: Admission to National Museum free of charge

Filipinos are getting more and more involved in their history and heritage thanks to events held in different museums across the archipelago. The National Museum of the Philippines took notice and has now opened its doors to everyone FOR FREE last July 1. Also read: National Museum: Get to Know the Country through the Eyes of Time   NO NEED TO WAIT FOR THE NEXT BIG EVENT. The National Museum recently announced that general admission to the museum as well as all its branches will be free of charge starting July 1, 2016. (Photo credit: National Museum of the Philippines Official Facebook page)   Yes, you read that right. Admission […]
Tropical Storm “Butchoy” expected to enter PAR later today
July 05, 2016

Tropical Storm “Butchoy” expected to enter PAR later today

Less than a week after “Ambo” brought rains to the country, another tropical storm is set to bring more rain to parts of the Philippines. Severe tropical storm Butchoy (international name “Nepartak”) is set to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Tuesday afternoon, July 5.   FIRST IN JULY. TS Butchoy will be the first out of many tropical cyclones to hit the country this year. Image courtesy of PAGASA.   According to the latest public weather forecast from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), Butchoy was last spotted 1,460 km east of Virac, Catanduanes. The tropical storm brings maximum sustained winds of 105 kph […]
July 6 declared a non-working holiday for Eid’l Fitr
July 04, 2016

July 6 declared a non-working holiday for Eid’l Fitr

Malacanan Palance has announced that July 6, Wednesday, is officially a regular holiday throughout the Philippines in observance of Eid’l Fitr (Feast of Ramadan). The announcement was delivered by Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella in a press briefing, Monday (July 4).   (Photo credit: cdn2.theweek.co.uk)   Eid al-Fitr is an important event celebrated by the Muslims for three days after the end of the month of fasting. It is the first day marking the end of the Ramadan. In accordance to Republic Act No. 9177, only the Office of the President can declare the Eid al-Fitr as a regular holiday, upon the recommendation of the National Commission of Muslim Filipinos. Thus, […]
Rodrigo Duterte: Philippines’ 16th President Inauguration
June 30, 2016

Rodrigo Duterte: Philippines’ 16th President Inauguration

Duterte taking his oath joined by his children (from left to right) Veronica, Sebastian, Sara and Paolo. Photo source: http://media.philstar.com/   After winning the election by a landslide last May 9th, President – elect Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte took his oath at 11:45 am Thursday, June 30 as the new and 16th President of the Philippines at the Malacanang Palace. A total of 627 guests were invited including incoming cabinet members and family of the new President. Before the oath taking ceremony, Duterte paid a brief courtesy call to the former president, Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III and send him off via departure honours for the outgoing President. In his speech, President […]
Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila runs their 4th year for the Manila Half Marathon
June 29, 2016

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila runs their 4th year for the Manila Half Marathon

MANILA Philippines June 26 2017–Sofitel Manila Plaza Manila together with Runrio promotes wellness and a healthy lifestyle as it hold this year’s Sofitel Manila Half Marathon dated on the 21st of August 2016 at CCP Complex Open Field.     For over four years, they have partnered with the country’s foremost running event organizer, RunRio, led by Coach Rio de la Cruz which brings the much-awaited event to a new venue. Now taking off from the CCP Open field, they are expecting for a bigger number of participating runners to fill-up the entire place together with the organizers in able  to generate more funds for the Virlanie Foundation. “Over 4,300 […]
PH Senate: VAT increase on unhealthy foods might be implemented
June 29, 2016

PH Senate: VAT increase on unhealthy foods might be implemented

“We are open to that, we are willing to listen. That is the essence of taxation and democracy,” Senate President Franklin Drilon told ABS-CBN News Channel.   (Photo credit: nzgba.taxbackinternational.com)   The Senate stated that they might consider the 12% increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) and execute a tax on “obesity-and disease- causing” food, like junk food, if demanded by the incoming administration of President-elect Rodrigo Duterte. According to incoming budget secretary Benjamin Diokno, he discussed with Duterte’s finance secretary-designate Carlos Dominguez on Duterte’s plan to increase the VAT up to a maximum of 15%. He also said that the timing of the VAT adjustment could be two years […]
DepED and Microsoft, in a team to hatch the EGG
June 27, 2016

DepED and Microsoft, in a team to hatch the EGG

MICROSOFT PHILIPPINES AND DepED. Microsoft Philippines Inc., and Department of Education (DepED) team up to build The EGG. (Photo grabbed from Victor Barreiro Jr. via Rappler)   In an effort to bring quality education to far-flung areas in the Philippines, the Department of Education (DepED) and Microsoft Philippines teamed up together to launch EGG, a self-contained, transportable classroom. This self-sustaining and fully-functional learning facility called EGG can accommodate more than 30 students which can easily be set up in three days. It is an innovative approach to provide education anywhere in the country, which can generate its own water and power system, and it also has its own internet connectivity. […]
It’s now official: beep card can now be used on ALL BGC Bus routes
June 27, 2016

It’s now official: beep card can now be used on ALL BGC Bus routes

After weeks of limited public trials, Bonifacio Global City (BGC) Bus and AF Payments, Inc. have made it official: you can now use beep™ in all BGC Bus routes.   BEEP BEEP. Yes, you can now use your beep™ card in all seven BGC Bus routes. Photo grabbed from beep card official Facebook page.   In a report from GMA News Online, BGC Bus General Manager June Galvez said that beep™ cards will now be accepted in all seven of their routes, replacing the old TapBGC stored value cards. “With the beep cards, it brings more convenience to our passengers and commuters. And with the current technology that we have, […]
Pinoy and Proud in New York: Jollibee in Manhattan
June 24, 2016

Pinoy and Proud in New York: Jollibee in Manhattan

Filipinos in and close to usually find it hard to find their favorite chicken, spaghetti, and hamburger; they say New York versions of said food tastes better, but nothing beats what we loved as kids. Well, worry no more! Jollibee will soon open its doors in Manhattan!   ISA PA! ISA PA! ISA PANG CHICKENJOY! You’ll soon hear Filipinos in New York saying these over and over again. Photo courtesy of Jollibee Official Facebook page.   In a report from the Commercial Observer, Jollibee Foods Corporation will open a branch in Manhattan, near the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Though there aren’t many Filipinos in New York, the bus terminal is […]
Michael Cinco makes history as the first Filipino designer to present in Paris Fashion Week
June 24, 2016

Michael Cinco makes history as the first Filipino designer to present in Paris Fashion Week

MICHAEL CINCO. Dubai-based Filipino fashion designer makes waves in Paris Fashion Week. Photo by Michael Cinco via his Instagram account   Dubai-based Filipino fashion designer Michael Cinco is set to make history as the first Filipino designer in the prestigious Paris Fashion Week this July. Cinco is bound to present his 30-piece Autumn/Winter collection which features both couture and ready-to-wear creations. According to a Manila Bulletin report, Cinco describes this collection as“homage to the beauty of nature.” Cinco’s exhibit will be presented by the Asian Couture Federation.  This federation promotes Asian Couturiers with highest levels of artistry in fashion design. Cinco became famous when he caught the attention of international […]
The Black Mamba returns to Manila
June 24, 2016

The Black Mamba returns to Manila

Two months after he uttered the words “Mamba out,” Kobe Bryant is on the move as he makes his way to Manila for the Mamba Mentality Tour on June 25 and 26.   MAMBA IS BACK IN MANILA. He dropped 60 in his last game, took a break for 2 months, and now he’s back at it. Photo courtesy of Nike Basketball Official Facebook page.   A special event will be held tomorrow, June 25, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, called Mamba Mentality Night. The tour’s culminating activity, dubbed “The Kobe Academy” will happen in June 26. Select basketball players from the Kobe Academy Pre-camp, which happened from June 22 […]
What you need to know about K to 12 Program in the Philippines
June 24, 2016

What you need to know about K to 12 Program in the Philippines

Upon learning about the Philippine education system, you might have heard about a certain “K to 12.” It’s one of the most recent update in the education system in the country, and it’s important that everyone knows what this is about and what makes it differ from the previous schooling system in the Philippines.   (Photo grabbed from Tesda via LinkedIn)   What is K to 12? Basically, K to 12 covers 13 years of basic education in PH. This includes: • Kindergarten to Grade 3 • Grades 4 to 6 • Grades 7 to 10 (Junior High School) • Grades 11 to 12 (Senior High School)• Why is PH […]