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News in the Philippines

Stay in the loop with your go-to source of blogs in the Philippines! Know the latest happenings and trending news in Manila and across the country.

Rio 2016: The Philippine Olympic Contingent
August 02, 2016

Rio 2016: The Philippine Olympic Contingent

The 2016 Rio Olympics is happening in a few days, and everyone is excited for the event. There may have been athletes that decided to skip the event due to the Zika virus outbreak in Brazil, but that did not stop our Philippine contingent from making the trip. Also read: Bitten: Zika Virus 101   WILL 2016 BE OUR YEAR? 1996 was the last time we won a medal at the Olympics. (Photos used were grabbed from flagpedia.net and Wikipedia Commons)   Here is the list of athletes who have qualified and will represent the Philippines at the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics, happening from August 5 – 21: – Athletics […]
The best Filipino indie films, your pet’s mind unlocked, and #SquadGoals: Movies in August
August 01, 2016

The best Filipino indie films, your pet’s mind unlocked, and #SquadGoals: Movies in August

August is known in the Philippines as the month when we celebrate the best in Filipino independent films with the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival. This year, August is extra special for movie buffs with these highly-anticipated films:   Suicide Squad (August 4) Poster grabbed from www.suicidesquad.com   Worst. Heroes. EVER. It’s the simplest way to describe this ragtag crew of the world’s most dangerous incarcerated super villains assembled by U.S. intelligence officer Amanda Waller. DC’s Suicide Squad promises to be as action-packed as any other superhero movie you’ve witnessed. In fact, if you looked at the trailers close enough, you might just catch a glimpse of one.   Cinemalaya Films […]
Red Charity Gala: The Annual Red Cross Charity Ball
May 29, 2024

Red Charity Gala: The Annual Red Cross Charity Ball

The glitz and glamour does not necessarily mean that it’s always just about fashion. Sometimes, it’s also has a deeper purpose. We introduce you to Red Charity Gala.   Various fashion outfits on stage   The Red Charity Gala is an “annual benefit charity fashion event which highlights the creativity and craftsmanship of Filipino fashion designers. Started in 2009, it first featured the collection of designer Dennis Lustico. For the past years, the Red Charity Gala was made for the benefit of Philippine Red Cross, a health and humanitarian organization, and also for Assumption High School Batch 1981 Foundation.  Since it started, they have already featured several well-known fashion designers […]
PLDT, Smart might not charge for calls to 911, 8888
July 29, 2016

PLDT, Smart might not charge for calls to 911, 8888

Subscribers of PLDT and its subsidiary, Smart, might just be able to breathe a sigh of relief if they ever find themselves in an emergency as the telecommunication giant is willing to give people free access to hotlines 911 and 8888, but only if the government says so. Also read: Think before you call: Globe charges P5 for 911 calls   DID THEY ONE-UP GLOBE TELECOM? Probably not, because they will only give free access if the government says so. File photo.   In an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA), Ramon Isberto, head of PLDT/Smart Public Affairs said “If the government will instruct us to make it free, […]
PH to host Miss Universe 2016
July 29, 2016

PH to host Miss Universe 2016

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Wanda Teo has confirmed at a press conference, Thursday (July 28), that the Philippines will be hosting the next Miss Universe pageant.   (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez via Philstar)   The idea was initially rejected by President Rodrigo Duterte because he was mainly concerned about the big expenses of hosting the pageant. He was later on convinced after a meeting with Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach last July 18. Teo said the government is not going to spend a single centavo and it will be the private sector that would shoulder the expenses. DOT is also considering the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City to […]
Improvements to expect in MRT-3 within 2016
July 29, 2016

Improvements to expect in MRT-3 within 2016

Installations of free WiFis, new industrial fans, enhanced power supply, arrival of 48 light rail vehicles (LRVs) and refurbishment of facilities – these are just some of the ongoing Metro Rail Transit-3 (MRT-3) upgrades, as released by the Department of Transportation Communications (DOTC) on its official website.   (Photo grabbed from mrt3.com)   Since the prevailing administration of President Rodrigo Duterte, better change has been seen in more than one way and form. Social and industrial improvements have been escalating so quickly, particularly in road and traffic issues in the Philippines. Though some are still undetectable to commuters, Filipino citizens are left with their high hopes of a better commuting […]
JICA-run youth volunteer program wins Asia’s Nobel Prize
July 29, 2016

JICA-run youth volunteer program wins Asia’s Nobel Prize

The Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF) just announced the recipients of its prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award, and Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA) youth volunteer program is one of the six awardees.   THE RAMON MAGSAYSAY AWARD will be given to six awardees this year, including JICA’s youth volunteer program, the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers. Photo grabbed from Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation official page   Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) will be honored this year for their “idealism and spirit of service in advancing the lives of communities other than their own,” according to the citation by the RMAF. Established in 1965, JOCV is a JICA-run program that aims to provide […]
Wedding Shoes Redefined: Keds x kate spade new york Champion Glitter Sneakers
July 28, 2016

Wedding Shoes Redefined: Keds x kate spade new york Champion Glitter Sneakers

THE ONLY SNEAKERS YOU’LL WANT TO WEAR ON YOUR BIG DAY These Keds X kate spade new york sneakers will have you dancing in bliss on your wedding day   Keds x kate spade new york Champion Glitter (P3,995)   Tying the knot? You won’t need to suffer in heels for hours on your wedding day. You can always switch to a pair of equally stylish sneakers. We’re not just talking about your run-of-the-mill flats, American fashion designer Kate Spade collaborated with Keds to create these chic glitter sneakers for the fashionable bride. The shoe features a canvas upper covered in crushed glitters and every pair comes with satin ribbon laces. […]
BFP now ready for 911 response
July 28, 2016

BFP now ready for 911 response

In a video posted on 911 Philippines’ Facebook page, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) trucks were seen to diffuse water with colors as an indication of their readiness to respond for disaster and emergency calls to 911.   (Screengrabbed from 911 Philippines’ Facebook post)   As one of President Rodrigo Duterte’s priorities in his administration, the 911 hotline for disaster and emergency response is now in the works, with its launch on August 2016. This hotline shall be used nationwide for connection with emergency response resources such as when it comes to disasters like “fire, typhoon, earthquake, landslides, tsunami, flood, terrorist attack, hazardous material emergencies, civil disturbance, riot control, search […]
Think before you call: Globe charges P5 for 911 calls
July 28, 2016

Think before you call: Globe charges P5 for 911 calls

Globe subscribers should think before calling 911 once it’s up and running next month, as the telecom giant will charge an extra P5 per call on top of their regular voice charges.   NO PRANK CALLS. Or, at least that’s the idea for all Globe Telecom subscribers. (Image grabbed from yugatech.com)   In a statement released yesterday, Globe General Counsel Atty. Froilan Castelo said that the extra charge was “suggested by the government to discourage prank calls.” Castelo also said that “Globe Telecom is ready to transmit voice calls for emergency hotline 911 and complaint hotline 8888 on August 1, as directed by the government.” They are also hastening their […]
International furniture store IKEA to open soon in the Philippines
July 27, 2016

International furniture store IKEA to open soon in the Philippines

In a report posted by news website Inquirer.net on Wednesday (July 27), popular international furniture brand IKEA is set to open a branch here in the Philippines.   IKEA store in Japan. (Photo grabbed from www.acclaro.com)   Although no details have been posted yet as of press time, the news gained mostly positive reactions, making it a trending topic in social networking site Twitter at the 11th spot. IKEA is a known global brand that sells ready-to-assemble furniture, appliances, and accessories that started in Sweden in 1943. According to a report by Reuters in 2008, it was named as the “world’s largest furniture retailer.” With over 300 stores in 48 […]
Admission to Ayala Museum will be for free on July 30
July 27, 2016

Admission to Ayala Museum will be for free on July 30

Ayala Museum will open its doors for free as part of their Inspire Everyday Campaign this July 30, Saturday.   (Photo grabbed from Ayala Museum’s official Facebook page)   Join and be inspired as Ayala Museum celebrates their annual free-admission day that will trigger your muse and creativity for a whole day of fun and learning. Registration starts at 8:30AM and gates open at 9:00AM so be sure to arrive early to get the most of the event. There will be fun activities, booths, seminars and free yoga and art classes and live performances from the Manila Symphony Orchestra, Tago Jazz Café, and Ballet Philippines. To ensure safety and for […]
Pizza lovers, attack! MyKitchen offers unli pasta and panizza
July 27, 2016

Pizza lovers, attack! MyKitchen offers unli pasta and panizza

Who doesn’t love eat-all-you-can, anyway? Have a taste of Chef Chris’ amazing pasta and panizza for only P650 all weekends until September 30!     Get the chance to savor Chef Chris’ delectable dishes from the Pasta and Originals menu, especially the panizza which is his original creation! This hand-rolled thin-crust pizza is definitely a must-try more than ever as it is offered now at a very affordable price. This deal is available from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm and is inclusive with an unlimited home brewed iced tea. My Kitchen also offers 10% discount on ala carte orders for those who avail unlimited pasta and panizza. If you wish […]
Ascott’s Somerset Alabang is now open!
July 27, 2016

Ascott’s Somerset Alabang is now open!

Congestion in Makati, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), and Ortigas is at an all-time high. Living spaces are at a premium, even with the many high-rise condominiums of these busy business districts.   WELCOME TO SOMERSET ALABANG! Ribbon cutting led by Muntinlupa Rep. Ruffy Biazon and Arthur Gindap of The Ascott Limited.   Well, worry no more. Somerset Alabang Manila is now open to serve those who are looking to stay in the fast-rising business district that is Alabang, Muntinlupa City!   TEAM SOMERSET! Here’s the whole family for Somerset Alabang with executives from The Ascott Limited.   Primer was on hand for their soft opening earlier today, July 26, and […]
Freedom of Information: Why is this is a big deal to Filipinos?
July 26, 2016

Freedom of Information: Why is this is a big deal to Filipinos?

Just nearly a month into office, President Rodrigo Duterte signed an Executive Order (EO), implementing the Freedom of Information (FOI) in the Executive branch. For Filipinos, this inking is such a feat especially that the FOI bill underwent rigorous revisions and procedures before it was drafted.   (Photo grabbed from the Presidential Communications Operations Office’s Twitter Account)   As a background, it was in the Article IV, Section 6 Bill of Rights of the 1973 Constitution where the right of people to information on matters of public concern was recognized. The bill was first filed in 1992 by then first district of Pangasinan representative Oscar Orbos. According to a Rappler […]
Tokyo Power Rice opened its very first branch in the Philippines
July 26, 2016

Tokyo Power Rice opened its very first branch in the Philippines

On July 26 (Tuesday), Japanese restaurant Tokyo Power Rice has successfully opened its very first branch at Tao Corporate Center in  Makati.     Owner Remigio V. Tan was very delighted during the opening and ribbon cutting ceremony. According to him, the main concept of Tokyo Power Rice is to bring quality Japanese food in affordable price to the people of the area. Aside from Japan, which currently operates 12 branches of Tokyo Power Rice, the Philippines is the country next to Japan to experience the infamous Tokyo Chikara Meshi (Beef Bowl) by Tokyo Power Rice. “We chose Philippines because among the Asian countries, Philippines has the fastest growth economically. […]
Disciplined, informed, involved Filipino: #DU30UnangSona
July 25, 2016

Disciplined, informed, involved Filipino: #DU30UnangSona

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (PRRD) called for disciplined, informed, and involved Filipinos for our country to truly rise from the ashes. He said that for our country to achieve success, “We have to help each other for then and only then can we truly prevail.” This comes after a one-hour, 32-minute State of the Nation Address (SONA).   PRESIDENT RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE delivers his first SONA, which lasted for an hour and 32 minutes. Photo courtesy of PTV   His SONA was unlike any first SONA delivered by other presidents, i.e. he did not blame previous administrations for their mistakes.   NO MORE FINGERPOINTING. Image courtesy of Presidential Communications Operations […]
Quench that thirst: Starbucks brews two new beverages
July 26, 2016

Quench that thirst: Starbucks brews two new beverages

  This July 26, Starbucks is set to unveil its 2 new frappuccino blended beverages which are the Mango and Strawberry Fruit Jelly yogurt. Mango Fruit Jelly yogurt Strawberry Fruit Jelly yogurt These two blended beverages will be available starting July 26, and are priced at P160/tall, P175/grande, and P190/Venti. The Mango Fruit Jelly yogurt is a great refreshment made up of mango fruit jelly with real mango bites, in a honey-citrus sweet mango sauce. On the other hand, its strawberry counterpart will give you a sweet and flavorful drink topped with a layer of strawberry jelly with strawberry bites that will make you crave for more. Aside from these […]
Now out in the Local Market: Herbalife SKIN Protective Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen
July 25, 2016

Now out in the Local Market: Herbalife SKIN Protective Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

The solution-based skin care nutrition, Herbalife SKIN, has successfully launched its newest skin care product, Protective Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen, at the Highstreet Café, Shangri-la at The Fort last July 23, 2016.     Herbalife SKIN Protective Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen is a long-lasting moisturizer that leaves skin smooth and soft, while providing broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection against the sun’s damaging rays. Its key benefits include doubling the skin’s moisture for eight hours, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and providing broad spectrum SPF 30 and UVA/UVB protection.       Paraben-free and dermatologically tested, the Protective Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen is […]
What is Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival?
July 25, 2016

What is Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival?

Every year in the Philippines, film buffs are all getting their exclusive chance to witness the newest film creations of Filipino filmmakers through the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, a film competition and festival that aims to encourage the creation of new cinematic works by Filipino filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience.     Usually happening every month of July or August at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the Cinemalaya gives the biggest opportunity for ten fresh talents who are provided with a production grant through the Cinemalaya Foundation in order to create the film of their dreams. These films will then be featured […]