manila standard

Grandparents Day

September 9, 2023

Manila Standard

SM Supermalls is rolling out the red carpet for the pillars of society, the country’s lolos and lolas, for Grandparents Day at SM. SM Supermalls has designated spots for families to snap picture-perfect memories and to throw a celebration that’s all a...

6.8-magnitude quake kills 820 in Morocco

September 9, 2023

MARRAKESH—Morocco’s deadliest earthquake in decades has killed at least 820 people, officials said Saturday, causing widespread damage and sending terrified residents and tourists scrambling to safety in the middle of the night. The 6.8-magnitude quake struck a mountainous area 72 kilometers (45 miles) southwest of tourist hotspot Marrakesh at 11:11 pm (2211 GMT) Friday, the […]
The post 6.8-magnitude quake kills 820 in Morocco appeared first on Manila Standard.

Drivers say P10K fuel subsidy lacking with prices rising

September 9, 2023

Alena Mae S. Flores

The P6,500 to P10,000 one-time fuel subsidy is not enough amid increasing pump prices, the transport group Pagkakaisa ng Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) said Saturday. This was as Unioil Petroleum Philippines forecasted a higher oil price hike on Tuesday of P0.40 to P0.60 per liter for diesel and P0.10 to P0.30 per […]
The post Drivers say P10K fuel subsidy lacking with prices rising appeared first on Manila Standard.

Geothermica, PH eagle, dies in Singapore

September 9, 2023

Manila Standard

The Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) on Saturday mourned the death of Philippine Eagle “Geothermica,” whom they credited for bringing international attention to the species’ plight. In a Facebook post, the organization said Geothermica, a 19-year-old male eagle, died on Thursday, Sept. 7., in a Singapore zoo. “Sambisig,” a female Philippine eagle, and Geothermica were on […]
The post Geothermica, PH eagle, dies in Singapore appeared first on Manila Standard.

DSWD sees hike in cash aid for rice retailers

September 9, 2023

Manila Standard

The P15,000 financial assistance for qualified rice retailers affected by the price cap on regular and well-milled rice varieties could be increased, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian said. This was as an estimated 25,000 qualified micro rice retailers began receiving their Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) cash assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development […]
The post DSWD sees hike in cash aid for rice retailers appeared first on Manila Standard.

Christmas decor

September 9, 2023

A woman makes lanterns signaling the start of the yuletide season. The lanterns are set to be delivered to a barangay hall in Manila and will be used as street decorations in preparation for the Christmas season.
The post Christmas decor appeared firs...

AFP hits China Coast Guard ‘misplaced bullying’ in WPS

September 9, 2023

The presence of the China Coast Guard (CCG) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) is “misplaced bullying” amid China’s continued aggression in the country’s territorial waters, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said. AFP spokesperson Colonel Medel Aguilar, in a forum, also cited the latest “harassment” of the CCG and Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) […]
The post AFP hits China Coast Guard ‘misplaced bullying’ in WPS appeared first on Manila Standard.

‘PH should ban TikTok for national security execs’

September 9, 2023

Manila Standard

The government should “seriously consider” banning the use of the Chinese social media app TikTok for security officials, Jonathan Malaya, assistant director general of the National Security Council (NSC) said. Malaya said several countries–including the United States and New Zealand–earlier banned TikTok on government-issued devices over concerns that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) can use […]
The post ‘PH should ban TikTok for national security execs’ appeared first on Manila Standard.

Cacdac vows to continue Ople’s DMW programs

September 9, 2023

Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) officer-in-charge Leo Hans Cacdac vowed to continue the programs that the late Secretary Susan “Toots” Ople started in the agency. Cacdac said included in his top list is to assist at least 10,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who had worked for nine Saudi companies that declared bankruptcy following the economic […]
The post Cacdac vows to continue Ople’s DMW programs appeared first on Manila Standard.

Solon slams charges vs. PAGCOR head

September 9, 2023

Cavite Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr. slammed the filing of what he termed as “trumped-up” charges against the chairman of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) and nine others before the Office of the Ombudsman. The case stemmed from the alleged disappearance of P75 million in performance bond posted by an e-sabong firm. Barzaga, a […]
The post Solon slams charges vs. PAGCOR head appeared first on Manila Standard.

Sofronio Fernandez Santos, 86

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard

Sofronio F. Santos, a retired automotive teacher at the Bicol University School of Arts and Trade, died Wednesday morning, his family announced. He was 86. The Castilla, Sorsogon-born Santos, left behind four children – Aline Masip, a retired bank official, sister Annie, RSCJ, Sherry Javier, Camalig-based pharmacist, and Anthony Gerry, Ontario-based pharmacist – children-in-law Dr. […]
The post Sofronio Fernandez Santos, 86 appeared first on Manila Standard.

PH resupplies Ayungin anew

September 8, 2023

But condemns ‘illegal’ acts of China ships that interfered with operation The Philippines successfully resupplied its Marine contingent on the BRP Sierra Madre on Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea Friday but condemned “illegal” actions by Chinese vessels that interfered with the operation. The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, which includes […]
The post PH resupplies Ayungin anew appeared first on Manila Standard.

Gibo defends funding for EDCA bases, stronger US ties

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. on Thursday defended funding for military bases covered by the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States, saying the country needs to spend on them despite assistance from Washington. “This is American aid and logistics assistance, but these are Philippine bases… We really need to spend [on them]. […]
The post Gibo defends funding for EDCA bases, stronger US ties appeared first on Manila Standard.

DOTr to hasten P3b fuel subsidy release as pump prices rise again

September 8, 2023

Darwin G. Amojelar

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said it will hasten the distribution of fuel vouchers to public utility vehicle operators and drivers after the release of the funds for the P3 billion subsidy program was approved on Friday. This is as oil firms are expected to implement a minimal price increase next week amounting to P0.10 […]
The post DOTr to hasten P3b fuel subsidy release as pump prices rise again appeared first on Manila Standard.

Meralco rates up 50 cents in Sept. on supply costs

September 8, 2023

Alena Mae S. Flores

Power distributor Meralco said it will increase electricity rate by P0.5006 per kilowatt-hour this month due to higher costs from its suppliers. Residential customers consuming an average of 200 kWh will see an increase of around P100 in their total electricity bill. The rate hike followed two consecutive months of price reductions totaling P1.0121 per […]
The post Meralco rates up 50 cents in Sept. on supply costs appeared first on Manila Standard.

Retailers dread P40,000 weekly losses over rice

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard

Grain retailers could incur P6,000 in losses daily or up to P40,000 a week due to the price ceiling on rice that took effect Tuesday, with the P15,000 subsidy barely covering the foregone revenues. Grains Retailers Confederation of the Philippines Inc. Eastern Visayas president Frederic Dy said at P2,450 per cavan of rice, retailers are […]
The post Retailers dread P40,000 weekly losses over rice appeared first on Manila Standard.

Palace: DOF Usec. was ‘maligning’ administration

September 8, 2023

Malacanang on Friday confirmed the termination of Finance Undersecretary Cielo Magno following reports that she was “maligning” the administration. In a statement, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said Magno had always been critical of the government’s policies even before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assumed office. “She has been against the policies of this administration and made […]
The post Palace: DOF Usec. was ‘maligning’ administration appeared first on Manila Standard.

Unemployment rate lower than last year, higher than in June

September 8, 2023

The country’s unemployment rate in July 2023 fell to 4.8 percent from 5.2 percent a year ago as the economy continues to reopen, resulting in more economic activities, the Philippine Statistics Authority said Friday. National statistician and civil registrar general Dennis Mapa said in an online briefing that the July 2023 jobless rate was, however, […]
The post Unemployment rate lower than last year, higher than in June appeared first on Manila Standard.

Era of ‘global boiling’

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard

WE HEARD the chief of the United Nations when he spoke recently in New York where he described the blistering heat across the northern hemisphere as a “cruel summer.” Underlying that climate change, a terrifying episode, is here, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, “For the entire planet, it is a disaster,” and noted that […]
The post Era of ‘global boiling’ appeared first on Manila Standard.

Critique on the National Security Policy

September 8, 2023

The 1987 Constitution of the Philippines ushered in a paradigm shift by introducing civilian control over the military The National Security Policy constitutes a fundamental set of principles meticulously crafted to steer decision-making processes with a singular aim: the safeguarding and enhancement of a nation’s interests, well-being, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. It is a guiding […]
The post Critique on the National Security Policy appeared first on Manila Standard.

‘Now is the time to buy’

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard

The CEO and co-founder of Leechiu Property Consultants is convinced that the Philippines today presents many opportunities in the real estate sector, despite the continued threats faced by the global economy. The situation, he believes, calls for businesses to succeed using the time-tested approach of working hard. David Leechiu believes in the importance of giving […]
The post ‘Now is the time to buy’ appeared first on Manila Standard.

Grasping the ‘green premium’

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard

Hotels and resorts around Southeast Asia are failing to understand the “green premium” and how to leverage it to attract quality guests, according to leading figures in the region’s hospitality industry. The message that hotels and resorts are falling behind counterparts in other parts of the globe when it comes to sustainable tourism, was one […]
The post Grasping the ‘green premium’ appeared first on Manila Standard.

Building a more resilient future

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard

Melody del Rosario, President of Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF), recently delivered an impassioned talk on the reality of climate change and the critical role that nature-based solutions and science can play in mitigating its effects. The talk, titled “Shoring Up Coastal Communities in the Protection of Marine Biodiversity and Ecosystems,” explored the devastating impacts […]
The post Building a more resilient future appeared first on Manila Standard.

Building with bamboo

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard

In celebration of National Bamboo Month, Base Bahay Foundation (Base), has assembled a respected lineup of international bamboo experts to speak on “Building with Bamboo: the Future of Sustainable Construction” at the second annual Bamboost, a bamboo forum slated on September 15 at the Loft at Manansala in Rockwell Center, Makati City. Registration is now […]
The post Building with bamboo appeared first on Manila Standard.

CREBA visits Senate Housing Committee chair

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard

Top officials of the Chamber of Real Estate & Builders’ Associations, Inc. (CREBA) paid a courtesy call on Senator Joseph Victor G. Ejercito, chairman of the Committee on Housing, Urban Development and Resettlements in the Philippine Senate. Senator Ejercito will be among real estate and housing industry leaders and government dignitaries who will grace the […]
The post CREBA visits Senate Housing Committee chair appeared first on Manila Standard.

Philippine stocks rise on improved jobs data

September 8, 2023

Jenniffer B. Austria

Local stocks returned to positive territory Friday after the government reported improved employment data. The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index climbed 39.87 points, or 0.64 percent, to close at 6,222.94, while the broader all-shares index rose 13.24 points to settle at 3,360.23. Philstocks Financial Inc. research engagement officer Claire Alviar said investors welcomed reports that […]
The post Philippine stocks rise on improved jobs data appeared first on Manila Standard.

Monash University: Generative AI’s impact on skills may lift or crumble academic integrity

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard - Tech

Increased awareness of Generative AI’s advantages has also posed a threat to skills development across the globe as observed by Monash University. Adapting to innovation is essential to academic institutions yet academic integrity is being challenged as generative AI such as ChatGPT and similar applications become more convenient to learners and educators. In these early […]
The post Monash University: Generative AI’s impact on skills may lift or crumble academic integrity appeared first on Manila Standard.

Lenovo, Erwan Heussaff showcase stories of Filipino spirit in ‘Let’s Get Into It’ Series

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard - Tech

Consumers today have access to a world of entertainment, inspiration, and knowledge whether they are viewers or creators. Everyday, people are bringing their ideas to life in many ways and on different platforms. With innovation and technology readily available, everyone can become a creator but to stand out among the rest, one should be […]
The post Lenovo, Erwan Heussaff showcase stories of Filipino spirit in ‘Let’s Get Into It’ Series appeared first on Manila Standard.

Trendy Xiaomi phones, tech products go on sale in extended back-to-school promo

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard - Tech

Back-to-school season is already in full swing. Xiaomi wants to make sure that students are prepared for anything with its Extended Back to School Promo from September 1 to 30, 2023. Students and parents alike can enjoy exciting deals on select Xiaomi products. The promo includes value-for-money Redmi phones, the RedmiBook 15, and other AIoT […]
The post Trendy Xiaomi phones, tech products go on sale in extended back-to-school promo appeared first on Manila Standard.

GoPro launches ₱24,990 HERO12 Black with up to 2x longer runtimes, 5.3K, 4K HDR Video

September 8, 2023

Manila Standard - Tech

GoPro (NASDAQ: GPRO) announced its new HERO12 Black camera, raising the bar yet again for the small, rugged, ultra-versatile cameras the company is famous for. GoPro’s newest flagship camera has an SRP of ₱24,990 and builds on the groundbreaking performance of its of its predecessor, enabling up to 2x longer runtimes thanks to a redesigned power […]
The post GoPro launches ₱24,990 HERO12 Black with up to 2x longer runtimes, 5.3K, 4K HDR Video appeared first on Manila Standard.

Leaders with Gladwell

September 6, 2023

Manila Standard

Iconic author and speaker Malcolm Gladwell (middle, seated) meets with corporate leaders, including SMPHI Chairman Hans Sy and SM Investments Vice Chairperson Teresita Sy-Coson, before serving as the Keynote Speaker of SM Supermalls’ Tenant-Partners S...

‘Fight hegemonic ambition’

September 6, 2023

• Marcos rallies ASEAN to let rule of law prevail • PBBM meets China’s Li, Canada premier Trudeau • PH leader meeting US VP, Japan PM too JAKARTA—President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to protect the rules-based international order against countries with a “hegemonic ambition” at a […]
The post ‘Fight hegemonic ambition’ appeared first on Manila Standard.

Chinese PM: Major powers must keep cool to avoid ‘new Cold War’

September 6, 2023

China’s premier said on Wednesday that major powers must keep their differences under control and avoid “a new Cold War,” in a thinly veiled reference to Washington, as top Asian and US officials gathered for talks in Indonesia. Beijing has expressed concern about US-backed blocs forming on its doorstep while facing disputes with other powers […]
The post Chinese PM: Major powers must keep cool to avoid ‘new Cold War’ appeared first on Manila Standard.

$22m in pledges secured from Indonesia firms

September 6, 2023

The country’s capacity to improve on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital connectivity as well as to manufacture animal vaccines got a boost after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. secured some $22 million worth of investment pledges from Indonesian companies. The Presidential Communications Office on Wednesday said the pledges were made during Mr. Marcos’ meeting with Indonesian […]
The post $22m in pledges secured from Indonesia firms appeared first on Manila Standard.

DTI: 25K small rice retailers to get P15K aid before weekend

September 6, 2023

Othel V. Campos

An initial batch of 25,000 resellers of regular and well-milled rice in Metro Manila markets will get a P15,000 subsidy to offset losses from having to sell their rice at government-imposed price ceilings before the week is over, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Wednesday. In an interview, Trade Assistant Secretary Agaton Uvero […]
The post DTI: 25K small rice retailers to get P15K aid before weekend appeared first on Manila Standard.

Risa warns DepEd not to use intel funds to surveil teachers, students

September 6, 2023

Macon Ramos-Araneta

Senator Risa Hontiveros on Wednesday cautioned the Department of Education against using its confidential funds for surveillance operations on teachers and learners in a bid to stop alleged recruitment attempts of the New People’s Army in public schools. Hontiveros noted that Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte herself admitted during the Senate’s budget deliberations […]
The post Risa warns DepEd not to use intel funds to surveil teachers, students appeared first on Manila Standard.

NBI uses monkey photo on ID to register SIM card

September 6, 2023

Joel E. Zurbano

Senators have expressed disappointment with telecommunication regulators after learning that the National Bureau of Investigation successfully registered a subscriber identity module (SIM) using a photo of a monkey. The lawmakers are now planning to amend the implementing rules and regulations of the SIM Registration Act. Senator Grace Poe, who chairs the committee on public services, […]
The post NBI uses monkey photo on ID to register SIM card appeared first on Manila Standard.

COCs for village polls now at 1.4m

September 6, 2023

More than 1.4 million certificates of candidacy (COC) were filed for the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE), higher than the 2018 BSKE aspirants, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec). However, Comelec Spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said the final number will be known on September 19. “The final number of candidates has yet […]
The post COCs for village polls now at 1.4m appeared first on Manila Standard.