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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.

A first for the PBA: Janine Nicandro is first female referee
July 19, 2016

A first for the PBA: Janine Nicandro is first female referee

Change has come to the oldest continuing basketball league in Asia as Janine Nicandro made her debut as a referee for the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) at the opening game of the Governor’s Cup held last Friday, July 15 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City.   A FIRST FOR THE PBA. Janine Nicandro dons the black and white for the first time as a PBA referee. (Photo courtesy of Inquirer.net)   “Yung dito po talaga, nakaka-tense po. Nakaka-kaba, pero masaya po,” (It’s very tense and nerve-racking here in the PBA, but it’s fun) said Nicanor, a 23-year-old marketing graduate from Laguna State Polytechic University (LSPU), during a […]
4DX cinemas now open at UP Town Center and Greenbelt 3
July 18, 2016

4DX cinemas now open at UP Town Center and Greenbelt 3

Your movie experience just got a whole lot better.     This July, the Ayala Malls opens 4DX cinemas in Greenbelt 3 and at the University of the Philippines (UP) Town Center.  4DX Cinemas are motion picture technology augmented with environmental effects such as “seat motion, wind, rain, fog, lights, and scents” along with its audio and visual presentation. This 4DX technology in Ayala Malls provides “high technology motorized recliner seats” and state of the art effects to let the moviegoers feel more connected to the movie. The cinema evokes a luxurious vibe to make the movie-watching more comfortable as ever.   Ayala Malls’ motor recliner seats and Movie Snackbar […]
Starbucks’ Buy 1 get 1 promo starts July 18!
July 18, 2016

Starbucks’ Buy 1 get 1 promo starts July 18!

Coffee lovers, there are more reasons to indulge in your favourite cup of handcrafted coffee today!     Starbucks’ Choco Hazelnut Mocha will be up for grabs in their Buy 1 Get 1 promo starting July 18 (Monday) to July 20 (Wednesday). There are no requirements needed to be able to avail this promo, just head on to any Starbucks stores nationwide in any time of the day and bring someone to share the coffee with you! You may avail the promo in any size, but there is a limit of (1) purchased beverage per customer per transaction. This promo is valid for hot and iced variants in all Starbucks […]
Regular taxis now allowed in NAIA
July 18, 2016

Regular taxis now allowed in NAIA

REGULAR TAXIS ALLOWED. NAIA allows regular taxi cabs to pick up arriving passengers from the airport. Photo grabbed from rappler.com   Good news for all airport travelers! The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has now started to allow regular taxi cabs to pick up arriving passengers, starting July 18. According to Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) General Manager Ed Monreal, around 97,000 passengers arrive in NAIA every day. This new scheme will help “reduce travelers’ waiting time for taxis, and will also help them give more choices for transportation,” as stated in a Philstar report. These regular taxis will be located in the following pick up points: NAIA Terminal 1 […]
UCC’s 3-in-1 coffee mixes now available in the market
July 19, 2016

UCC’s 3-in-1 coffee mixes now available in the market

While there are lots of different 3in1 instant coffee brands emerging in the market now, UCC decided to level up their brewing game by offering a total coffee solution by various types of coffee products –UCC 3in1 is the latest in line! UCC is endeavoring to spread Brewed Coffee through UCC shops and roasting factory but now, they wanted to cover the whole category!     They started promoting their own 3in1 coffee in early 2014. It was initially being sold only at UCC shops, but now, you can find at supermarkets and convenience stores nationwide as well. Their 3 in 1 products are ranging from P200-500 in boxes consist […]
PPO’s Historic Concert at Carnegie Hall
July 15, 2016

PPO’s Historic Concert at Carnegie Hall

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO), the country’s leading professional orchestra, made history when it performed at the world-renowned Carnegie Hall in New York City on June 18.     Playing to a full house, it was the first time a Filipino orchestra performed in the United States. The project was spearheaded by former PPO Music Director/Principal Conductor Olivier Ochanine.     The concert included impressive performances by pianist Cecile Licad and violinist Diomedes Saraza.       The Carnegie Hall concert was presented by the Cultural Center of the Philippines in cooperation with Philippine Airlines (the official carrier of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra), Smart Infinity, Rustan Commercial Corporation, One Meralco […]
15 Days of Duterte
July 19, 2016

15 Days of Duterte

It has been two weeks since President Rodrigo Duterte started his 6-year presidential term in the Philippines. We’ve witnessed quick and constant social and economic progress as little as two days after he gave his inaugural speech last June 30. One example are photos of an unusually clean and clear Divisoria (a very busy shopping place in Recto, Manila) and Baclaran Market that have gone viral on social media. Also read: Rodrigo Duterte as a leader While numerous evidences are tossed everywhere for everyone to see, is Duterte’s promise of a better Philippines in 6 months really possible? Is change really coming? Let’s round up some of the most notable acts of the Duterte […]
Italian restaurant Pastadito in Makati introduces a new set of delectable choices
July 14, 2016

Italian restaurant Pastadito in Makati introduces a new set of delectable choices

There are new delightful treats in town! Italian restaurant Pastadito has added delectable dishes in their menu. Owned by couple Roberto and Eleanor Fazzini, Pastadito recently opened last April on P. Guanzon St., Makati. Since then, customers have been coming back not only because of its authentic Italian offerings, but also its sophisticated yet laidback ambience with its beautifully made wooden furnishings and homey wall decors.     New creations of Mrs. Fazzini have been added to their long list of scrumptious main course. One of these is the Pork Saltimbocca in Marsala Sauce, a popular Italian dish topped with prosciutto and basil. In Italy, saltimbocca means “jump in your […]
Let the games begin: Filipino netizens react to #CHexit
July 13, 2016

Let the games begin: Filipino netizens react to #CHexit

With the Permanent Court on Arbitration issuing an award in favor of the Philippines, Filipinos both here and abroad have taken to Twitter and Facebook to say their piece about the monumental decision.   Claim what is ours. ??#WestPhilippineSea #CHExit — MyDearWriter (@MyDearWriter) July 12, 2016 You harassed our fishermen, destroyed our reefs and plundered our marine resources. It's time for you to leave our territory! #CHexit ?? — Hey it's just J (@jason_without_y) July 12, 2016 David wins over Goliath! Finally, it is OURS.?????? #WestPhilippineSea #CHexit ??? — Zcyrel Barola (@zcybarolaaaaaaa) July 12, 2016 To claim what is ours is the best feeling ever. #WestPHSea #CHexit — Ed Ignacio […]
Asiaworld Hospitality conducts first CHE Course in the Philippines
July 13, 2016

Asiaworld Hospitality conducts first CHE Course in the Philippines

Asiaworld Hospitality, the official partner of the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI), contributes to develop Hospitality Educators in line with Asian and International  Standards.     More than 50 faculty members attended the series of intensive workshops including representatives from De La Salle – College of Saint Benilde, Lyceum of the Philippines University, University of Santo Tomas, Our Lady of Fatima University, Cagayan de Oro College – PHINMA Education, University of Iloilo – PHINMA Education and Woosung University of Korea. The Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) Course was conducted by Fr. Robert Steele, a Catholic priest from the Diocese of Auckland, to deliver the milestone workshop. Fr. Steele is […]
Free Wi-Fi in select transportation systems and hubs, soon in Manila
July 13, 2016

Free Wi-Fi in select transportation systems and hubs, soon in Manila

FREE WIFI. The Department of Transportation and Smart Communications, Inc. signs Memorandum of Understanding to provide Wi-Fi access for transport passengers in PH. Photo grabbed from dotc.gov.ph   The new administration of the Philippines is set to make the country stay connected on the internet by tapping the country’s largest phone carrier, PLDT, to provide free Wi-Fi in 21 transport hubs within 100 days. According to a Rappler report, it was Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and President Rodrigo Duterte who asked and wanted for an accelerated Wi-Fi rollout. It was also them who tapped PLDT, but the whole agreement is not exclusive to the company as other telecommunication providers can […]
#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 […]
Recipe Corner: Beef Tapa Cheese Steak by Chef Joseph Margate of Bait’s
June 02, 2017

Recipe Corner: Beef Tapa Cheese Steak by Chef Joseph Margate of Bait’s

Beef Tapa Cheese Steak   Beef Tapa is dried cured beef that is similar to beef jerky. This is traditionally prepared by curing the meat with sea salt and letting it dry directly under the sun for the purpose of preserving the meat. Tapa is usually fried and is best served with vinegar.   Beef tapa   Ingredients: Beef Tapa Cheese Steak (Makes 2 sandwiches) • 500g beef striploin, sliced thinly • 100g Kikkoman soy sauce • 15g sugar • 8g black pepper, ground fine • 10g sesame oil • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 4 large slices white bread • 2 slices American cheese (the type that melts) Instructions: […]
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 […]
Meet Leni Robredo: PH’s new Vice President
July 08, 2016

Meet Leni Robredo: PH’s new Vice President

While everyone knows exactly who the new president is, not everyone is privy to who our vice president, Leni Robredo, is apart from being a member of the Liberal Party, which former president Benigno Aquino III was also a member of. Here are a few things that you should know about the Philippines’ new vice president:   THE SECOND MEETING. Vice President Leni Robredo (left) is seen meeting with President Rodrigo Duterte during a courtesy call by the latter. Photo courtesy of lenirobredo.com   1. She was a human rights lawyer before being a congresswoman. She used to work for the Sentro ng Alternatibong Lingap Panligal (SALIGAN), a national alternative […]
A Unique Diner Experience at Hotel Jen Manila
July 08, 2016

A Unique Diner Experience at Hotel Jen Manila

Come dinner time, diners can whet their appetite with a wide range of appetizers, salads and main course meals in six rotational themes from around the globe every night from Mondays through Sundays. Themed dinner buffet features Asian Flavors on Mondays, Mexican-Spanish Aromas on Tuesdays, Jen’s Specialties on Wednesdays and Sundays, Pinoy Fiesta on Thursdays, Seafood Grill Night on Fridays and Barbecue Party on Saturdays. Executive Sous Chef Dirk Fiedler prepares a spread of appetizing favorites such as prawns, cheese platter, kare-kare (oxtail in peanut sauce), crispy pata, lechon kawali, inihaw na liempo, callos, paella, buffalo chicken wings, assorted dim sum, salads, appetizers, soup and more, plus a live action […]
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 […]