New electric bill format to reflect VAT-exempt system loss charges
In the new bill format, the allowable system loss charges are separately identified and excluded from gross sales for VAT computation.
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Philstar
Tuesday, 29 September · 108 stories
Top stories
Lord Allan Velasco out of Philippines, BI confirms
No hold departure order or derogatory record prevented the ex-speaker's exit.
Sara Duterte trial recap, Sept. 29: Baste Duterte on the stand
Davao City Mayor Baste Duterte testified at the impeachment trial of his sister, Vice President Sara Duterte, on Tuesday, September 29, saying he had no direct knowledge of the city's 19 contracts with a firm declared…
Philippine Coast Guard drives off Chinese militia vessel, 24 boats near Kota Island
The PCG condemned the presence of Chinese militia vessels, saying it is China’s strategy to bolster its presence in the disputed territorial sea.
Sandiganbayan rejects Revilla’s 2nd motion to inhibit presiding justice
In a resolution dated September 24, the anti-graft court found Revilla’s motion to be without merit, ruling that Associate Justice Karl Miranda must proceed with his judicial duty to sit and hear the case.
Palestinian embassy thanks Philippines for joining UN walkout on Netanyahu
The Palestinian embassy in Manila on Monday, September 28, thanked the Philippine government for joining last week's walkout on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the United Nations, an action it says…
LIVE Coverage: Sara Duterte's impeachment trial, Sept. 29
Follow the trial, in context and in real time.
Election lawyer seeks TRO vs law moving barangay, SK polls to 2028
He asks the Supreme Court to strike down the law moving the polls to 2028.
Telcos dispute P100K fine daily over poor internet
The National Telecommunications Commission has issued show-cause orders to DITO Telecommunity, Globe Telecom and Smart Communications over internet quality, penalizing them P100,000 each per day starting Sept. 25 until…
Meralco seeks ERC nod for P2.64 billion refund scheme
Power utility giant Manila Electric Co. is seeking regulatory approval to return an additional P2.64 billion to its more than eight million customers.
Defense: No decision yet on questioning vote to convict
There is no final decision yet on whether the defense will file a petition before the Supreme Court questioning the Senate impeachment court’s ruling to lower the number of votes needed to convict Vice President Sara…
Malacañang: No cover-up in Taguig ghost projects
Malacañang has called for a deeper probe into alleged ghost projects in Taguig City, assuring the public that there would be no cover-up in the government’s continuing investigation of anomalous flood-control projects.
Impeach court gives Ridon ‘stern warning’ on comments
The Senate impeachment court has issued a stern warning to House prosecutor Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon over comments he made in media interviews that have been flagged for possible violation of the gag order.
PCG challenges China ships off Mindoro, Batanes
The Philippine Coast Guard has challenged a China Coast Guard vessel near Cabra Island in Occidental Mindoro and tracked a Chinese research ship off Batanes.
‘11 contracts won by GenCorp had no public bidding’
The Davao City government awarded 11 of its 15 contracts to private firm GenCorp without public bidding, a procurement official revealed yesterday at the resumption of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara…
2 Pinoy tourists die in Bavaria bus crash
Two Filipino tourists in Germany died when a bus carrying them from Milan to Munich’s Oktoberfest beer festival overturned on a motorway on Sunday.
Romualdez seeks bail in plunder case
Former House speaker Martin Romualdez has sought bail in his P7.4-billion plunder case involving alleged kickbacks in flood control projects, arguing that the prosecution cannot show strong evidence of his guilt.
BSKE postponement challenged before SC
A legal challenge has been filed with the Supreme Court, aiming to junk the law postponing anew the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections to November 2028.
Nation
LTFRB move on fare adjustments welcomed amid high fuel costs
A transport group has expressed its gratitude to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) for taking decisive action to approve and implement the necessary fare adjustment for Transport Network…
Armed group attacks Cotabato City village
Gunmen fired three 40-millimeter grenade projectiles and assault rifles at a residential enclave in Sitio Pakistan in Mother Barangay Kalanganan here on Monday night, September 28, causing widespread panic among Moro…
P20.4 million worth of shabu seized in Tawi-Tawi
Combined agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and police personnel seized P20.4 million worth of shabu in an operation on Monday, September 28, in Barangay Pababag in the island Bongao town in Tawi-Tawi.
Ampatuan clan feud triggers tension in Maguindanao del Sur
The mayor of this town is optimistic that he could secure justice for the six ambushes targeting him over the years, including the rocket attack on his convoy early this year, which he blamed on his relatives in the…
CamSur declares state of calamity amid rising dengue cases
Dengue cases in Camarines Sur have exceeded the epidemic threshold for five consecutive weeks since August 23.
DOH to cover 1,747 hospitals for eMAIFIP program
The Department of Health aims to cover 1,747 hospitals under the government’s electronic medical assistance to indigent and financially incapacitated patients or eMAIFIP program.
PCG files case vs June Aster captain
The Philippine Coast Guard has charged Roel Sarmiento, captain of the fire-stricken MV June Aster, with falsification of public documents, as the PCG and Bureau of Fire Protection continue with their maritime casualty…
2 get life for selling 20 kilos of marijuana
Two men were sentenced to life in prison by a court in Benguet for selling nearly 20 kilos of dried marijuana in March, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency announced yesterday.
5 sailors back in Manila after Oman attack
Five Filipino seafarers who survived an attack on the bulk carrier Cape Dao off the coast of Oman returned to Manila on Sunday, according to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
6/58 lotto pot hits P345 million
The jackpot in the Ultra Lotto 6/58 is estimated to reach P345 million, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office announced yesterday.
Quezon City’s Right to Care card applications now online
The Quezon City government has integrated the application process for its pioneering Right to Care Card initiative into the unified digital platform for government services.
Reconsider SALEX project, Isko urged
Civil society groups, consisting of 37 organizations and 424 people, appealed to Manila Mayor Isko Moreno yesterday to reconsider the construction of the Southern Access Link Expressway project.
BuCor: Cornejo, Lee can’t walk out of prison yet
The Bureau of Corrections is reviewing the release of businessman Cedric Lee and Deniece Cornejo from prison.
Leptospirosis cases at San Lazaro Hospital drop
The San Lazaro Hospital in Manila has recorded a sustained drop in leptospirosis-related admissions.
Marcos, Angara cite partners in PISA gains
Educators, learners and other partners who contributed to the Philippines’ gains in the 2025 Program for International Student Assessment were recognized yesterday by President Marcos and Education Secretary Sonny…
Regions
Over alleged authority abuse: Mandaue City traffic agency seeks dismissal of enforcer
The Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (TEAM) is set to terminate a traffic enforcer for allegedly abusing his authority while off duty.
Groups: P42 wage hike “inadequate”
Workers’ groups in Central Visayas have rejected the newly approved P42 daily wage increase, saying the adjustment is inadequate amid the region’s high inflation and rising cost of basic necessities.
Advocacy group: Cebu bears power burden from Negros, Bohol coal bans
Cebu is being forced to shoulder part of the baseload power requirements of Negros and Bohol because of the provinces’ bans on coal-fired and diesel power plants, a Cebu-based energy advocacy group said, warning that…
TWG to assess Balili proposal
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has ordered the creation of a technical working group (TWG) to evaluate Naga City’s proposal involving a portion of the province-owned Balili property in Barangay Tinaan.
As nationwide transport strike proceeds: PUV fare hike takes effect
Higher public utility vehicle (PUV) fares took effect nationwide Monday, September 28, with the minimum fare for traditional jeepneys increasing to P14 from P13 and modern jeepneys to P17 from P15.
May the SC overrule the Impeachment Court?
The statement of the lead defense counsel, Atty. Hiela Sison, that henceforth, the participation of the respondent in the impeachment proceedings shall be with "ex-abundanti cautelam" or with much, much caution is a…
Cebu’s September habit
Every September, Cebu’s competing media outlets make time for one another during Press Freedom Week.
Insulting increase
The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines recently said that the ?42 wage increase is insulting to the working class.
Maleta boy ni Sara?
Si kanhi Police corporal Rodolfo Gracioso walay kalainan sa kanhi marines nga nag-una niya sa pag-angkon nga gisugo sa paghatod og binilyon ka pesos nga kuwarta nga gisulod sa mga maleta.
EDITORIAL — Some of the first and among the last
Several personnel of the Bureau of Immigration made the news recently.
Business
PackPrintPlas Philippines 2026 leads to addressing the industry’s evolving demands
The event is expected to host more than 300 exhibitors from across the Philippines and beyond.
Trends and ReadyLinks say IR and hospitality sectors can modernize connectivity infrastructure sans expensive overhauls
Introducing an integrated methodology toward modernizing network capabilities for IRs and hotels.
Order fiber WiFi like food delivery: GFiber Prepaid expands WiFi-on-demand via GrabMart to Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao
Getting fiber internet at home can now be as easy as ordering food delivery.
More GCash services for underserved Filipinos loom amid Mynt IPO — analyst
The initial public offering of GCash’s parent company could generate additional resources to expand its digital financial services and reach more underserved and unbanked Filipinos, according to a financial analyst.
Claims made easy: Singlife Philippines delivers the experience Filipinos deserve
Singlife reinforces its commitment to putting customers first by transforming the insurance claims experience into a seamless, fully digital journey.
Globe gets nod from Morgan Stanley as GCash IPO nears
Globe Telecom Inc. has secured a positive nod from global investment bank Morgan Stanley as its GCash affiliate Mynt moves closer to pricing its highly anticipated initial public offering.
Price Tracker: Oil, fuel monitor for Sept. 28–Oct. 5
Pump prices decline after three consecutive weeks of increases.
SEDA Law honors Piki Lopez for RE transition, development
In its recent celebration of 25 years of leadership in the legal sector, SEDA Law awarded its prestigious Silver Coin Tribute to Federico “Piki” Lopez, chairman and CEO of the First Holdings Group, during a gala dinner…
Taiwanese firm eyes $1 billion plant in Clark
A Taiwanese technology firm plans to invest $1 billion for a manufacturing facility in New Clark City, according to the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.
JKS buys P2.88 billion PhilWeb shares, ups stake to 14.2%
Technology firm JKS Tech Solutions Inc. is raising its stake in listed gaming service provider PhilWeb Corp. to 14.22 percent through the purchase of additional shares worth P2.88 billion.
Fiscal reforms to unlock GDP gains for Philippines – World Bank
The Philippines could generate fiscal gains equivalent to as much as 7.1 percent of gross domestic product by improving tax collection and making public spending more efficient, according to the World Bank.
Beyond substituted filing
For many employees, tax compliance is often perceived as complete upon receipt of their Certificate of Compensation/Tax Withheld or the Bureau of Internal Revenue Form 2316 from their employer.
Globe leans on GCash, data centers for value
Telco-to-tech giant Globe Telecom Inc. is betting on its digital units to pick up more investor interest as it moves to cushion its recent profit slowdown.
MGEN advances S$1.2 billion gas plant in Singapore
Meralco PowerGen Corp. of tycoon Manuel V. Pangilinan is now advancing its S$1.2-billion (about P58.7 billion) hydrogen-ready gas-fired power plant on Jurong Island, Singapore.
AMLC to banks: Show AI helps curb financial crime
Banks and other financial institutions using artificial intelligence to fight financial crime should be able to show that the technology helps detect risks and that its decisions could be examined, according to the…
DigiPlus hits bump in Brazil venture
Digital entertainment company DigiPlus Interactive Corp. has encountered another obstacle in its venture in Brazil.
Can you improve this work process?
There was an old story about three lumberjacks sent into the forest.
Stocks tumble as Trump rejects Iran proposal
The local stock market started the week on a sour note amid renewed concerns over possible prolonged oil supply disruptions.
‘New auction rules put Semirara coal output at risk’
The Semirara coal mine in Antique could face zero output if the government awards the new contract solely to the highest bidder, regardless of mining expertise, its current operator warned.
Bad weather sinks car sales, but xEVs zoom
Heavy rainfall and flooding led to an 18-percent decline in overall vehicle sales in August from a year ago, but demand for electrified vehicles remained resilient with sales accelerating by over 200 percent.
Airfares soaring to new highs
Filipinos booking their holiday flights in October will find themselves paying more – some by as much as nearly P14,000 – as the government approved a new round of fuel surcharge hike.
Mitsubishi charges ahead with plans to export hybrid
It is no secret that Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. plans to manufacture a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and position the country as an export hub for hybrid vehicles.
Sports
Eala, Rivera roll past Hong Kong foes to advance in Asiad women's doubles tennis
It’s so far so good for the Philippine tennisters.
Filipino Mobile Legends, Identity V gamers reach Asiad quarterfinals
The country’s national esports team, Sibol, punched tickets to two knockout rounds after advancing to the quarterfinals of both Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) and Identity V in the 20th Asian Games.
Obiena sets new Asiad record in golden repeat
EJ Obiena defended his Asian Games pole vault throne on Monday night in Nagoya, Japan — and set a new Asiad record of 5.91 meters in the process.
UAAP resumes with Asiad campaigners back in fold
Asian Games heroes led by the silver medalists from the Gilas Pilipinas 3x3 women’s team return to their respective schools Wednesday, September 30, as the UAAP Season 89 resumes at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Philippine trio seize historic sepak takraw silver in Asian Games
The Philippine women’s doubles team settled for silver after falling to Vietnam, 15-8, 15-4, in the gold medal match of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games.
ICTSI Iloilo: Ababa gains solo lead; Mondilla falters
Jhonnel Ababa kept his cool under a scorching sun and swirling winds, producing the only bogey-free round of the day to seize solo control of the ICTSI Iloilo Golf Challenge.
Blu Girls revive Asian medal hopes with two straight wins
After a nightmarish start, the Philippine Blu Girls are back in the hunt for a breakthrough Asian Games medal.
Ramos falters late, but stays in hunt in Egypt
Sean Ramos got off to a blazing start but stumbled on the tougher back nine, settling for a four-under 66 and joint 17th at the start of the Egypt Golf Series 14.
MPBL: Mindoro books playoff berth; Zamboanga stays alive
The Mindoro Tamaraws showed composure under pressure to thwart the Basilan Steel, 77-72, and barge into the South Division playoffs.
Marcial upbeat on title world hopes with key backer in his corner
Fresh from an emphatic knockout win, Eumir Marcial continues to have high hopes on winning a world title someday especially now that he enjoys full backing from a major supporter.
Dagoon, Cablitas banner crack field Zentro juniors tennis tourney
The country’s longest-running tennis talent-search shifts to Pulilan, Bulacan this week, with Jan Cadee Dagoon and Astrid Cablitas leading a stellar cast in the Zentro Juniors Age-Group Championships.
Philippine golf teams launch dual Asian Games medal quest
The Philippines begins its quest for Asian Games golf medals on Wednesday, September 30, with both its men’s and women’s teams facing formidable opposition.
History-making Uy battles through the night, rain, fear to conquer Spartathlon
For Jennifer Aimee Uy, barely making it was still making it.
Different pathways to LA
Qualifying for the Olympics takes a different route depending on the sport. In tennis, the door leading to the 2028 LA Games is open to the singles gold medalists of the 2026 Asian Games, 2027 Pan American Games, 2027…
Stajcic back as Filipinas U17 mentor
Alen Stajcic, the Australian coach who steered the Filipinas to history in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, is back to serve Philippine football.
Cardinals score breakthrough
Marc Cuenco and Jamal Diaz took charge in the fourth quarter as Mapua slew defending champion San Beda, 55-54, yesterday to barge into the win column in NCAA Season 102 at the Filoil Center.
Pinoy chessers win Category B bronze
The Philippine men’s team delivered a Category B bronze medal after it ripped Panama, 3-1, in the 11th and final round of the 46th World Chess Olympiad at the Silk Road International Exhibition Centre in Samarkand…
Marcos wants probe on ‘lack of support’ issue
President Marcos wants an investigation into the alleged lack of financial support for athletes competing in the Asian Games in Japan.
Double quarterfinals for Philippines beach belles
Philippine volley belles continued to sparkle on the sands.
Thrilling finish seen in ICTSI Iloilo Challenge
With two of the last three Philippine Golf Tour legs decided by one stroke and the other by two, the ICTSI Iloilo Golf Challenge is shaping up for another tense and unpredictable finish when the P2.5-million…
Bronze starts countdown for LA
The clock said 13.48. Season-best. Bronze. History.
Sepak bets deliver as promised
No resignation letters to tear. Only medals to count.
Eala’s bid on, fans left off
Rain stole Alex Eala’s Center Court debut.
Entertainment
Rere Madrid gives birth to first child with Gilas player Kai Sotto
The baller and the actress are now parents!
Anne Curtis’ passion project Dream Machine grants dreams of Puerto Princesa children
Dream Machine continues to grind, granting small dreams and creating ripples of joy, hope and inspiration amongst different people and various communities.
Kundiman takes center stage in Zanjoe Marudo's CinePanalo film
Beneath the coming-of-age story is another love story — one that connects a young Filipino boy to a musical tradition passed down through generations: Kundiman.
Alden Richards calls ‘GGV’ guesting his ‘rawest, unfiltered’ interview
Alden Richards opened up about his much-talked-about guest appearance on the return of “Gandang Gabi, Vice,” saying he chose to be completely honest during his conversation with host Vice Ganda.
'Hi principessa': Dylan Sprouse, Barbara Palvin welcome first child
Dylan Sprouse and Barbara Palvin are officially parents.
Bayani Agbayani recalls Spain trip for Bea Alonzo, Vincent Co’s canceled wedding
Veteran comedian Bayani Agbayani recalled traveling to Spain with his wife, Lenlen, in May 2026 to attend the wedding of Bea Alonzo and Vincent Co, which was eventually called off.
David Licauco, Ashtine Olviga star in ‘Fight for My Way’ adaptation
Ashtine Olviga and David Licauco are teaming up for the first time as they headline the Filipino adaptation of hit South Korean series “Fight for My Way.”
Gerald Anderson: Business first, love life later
Gerald Anderson considers camping an “ideal” date, but finding a special someone to share the outdoors with isn’t exactly at the top of his priorities right now.
Howie Severino’s new book highlights the importance of remembering
To contemporary TV audiences, Howie Severino is a trusted face delivering insightful documentaries for “i-Witness” and a longtime pillar of GMA News.
Lifestyle
Anne Curtis bares 20-minute beauty fix
Fans have long called her “Dyosa,” but what’s the secret behind that famously fresh look?
Beauty buzz: All about aesthetics and 'facial harmony'
An aesthetic physician talks about how he conducts his business in an industry that has become more open accepting the passage of time.
Trends and ReadyLinks say IR and hospitality sectors can modernize connectivity infrastructure sans expensive overhauls
Introducing an integrated methodology toward modernizing network capabilities for IRs and hotels.
Art beat: Of Silk Road caves and discarded materials finding new life
An exploration of Mogao Caves and the art of repousse might interest art enthusiasts.
Tube or sachet? This Pinoy toothpaste has a new, ‘sulit’ answer
Toothpaste packaging might not seem like something worth thinking about, but the format can make a difference in how a product fits into everyday routines.
Opinion
Political stability
On Friday night, Sept. 25, 2026, I was a moderator at the MOPC Senate Night with Senate President Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian as guest of honor and speaker.
The Philippines needs a new national obsession
Our country is poor not because Filipinos lack ambition.
Going electric
When President Marcos recently boasted that “we will soon be seeing a Filipino electric vehicle, tricycle and maybe down the road, we can make a jeepney,” he probably didn’t realize that the factory he was visiting had…
Viado says proponents must justify immigration fee
Imagine this.
Censorship
The Department of Information and Communications Technology, led by Sec. Henry Aguda, ordered the National Telecommunications Commission to block the platform Discord.
EDITORIAL - Proceed with caution
A former policeman has emerged with a story of large-scale corruption involving top incumbent and former government officials.
Headlines and excerpts come from Philstar's public news feeds. Full stories are on Philstar's own site.