Leandro Leviste not yet a ‘fugitive from justice’ — DOJ
The Department of Justice clarified that Congressman Leandro Leviste is not yet considered a "fugitive from justice," despite an active warrant of arrest issued against him by a Makati court.
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Philstar
Thursday, 8 October · 109 stories
Top stories
DOLE flags labor, safety violations by MV June Aster operator
Authorities are trying to determine whether the alleged violations, particularly in matters of occupational safety and health standards, have contributed to the tragedy.
Supreme Court eases process for recognizing foreign divorces in Philippines
In the high court’s En Banc session on October 7, the Court said the new rules eliminate the requirement that petitioners independently prove the foreign divorce law in court, requiring them only to establish that the…
Mark Villar reclaims public works chairship in switch to majority bloc
Sen. Mark Villar has regained chairship of the powerful Senate public works committee in his jump to the majority bloc.
PhilHealth underfunding limits improved benefits — solon
According to Montes, the proposed P74.4 billion PhilHealth budget for 2027 falls short from the P75.2 projected collections from sin taxes for tobacco and sweetened beverages alone.
Pneumonic plague spread to PH highly unlikely, says health expert
The expert said the pneumonic plague is a treatable disease, further supporting his view that an international spread is highly unlikely.
Marcos arrives in Singapore for investment, regional talks
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. arrived in Singapore late Wednesday, October 7, for a five-day working visit to promote investment opportunities in the Philippines and discuss regional issues with Singaporean officials.
Sara Duterte trial recap, Oct. 7: VP and husband's millions
A record-breaking fifteen executives from banks and insurers took the witness stand in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday, October 7, to authenticate documents that attest to her and her…
LIVE Coverage: Sara Duterte's impeachment trial, Oct. 8
Follow the trial, in context and in real time.
Palace: DOH ‘closely monitoring’ plague concerns in Russia
The plague concerns came following the death of a laboratory technician in Russia who was working at a plague research institute.
Stronger primary, preventive care for Pinoys sought
Sen. Bong Go has urged the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. to further strengthen primary and preventive health care while ensuring adequate benefits for Filipinos undergoing dialysis and other life-sustaining…
DepEd to include mathematics in ARAL program expansion
The Department of Education (DepEd) will expand its Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning Program to include Mathematics in an effort to sustain gains in the Program for International Student Assessment 2025.“The…
Coast Guard activates Kalayaan auxiliary district
The Philippine Coast Guard activated an auxiliary district yesterday in the Kalayaan Island Group to enable faster response, better sustainment of operations and closer coordination with the municipality of Kalayaan.
Marcos to agencies: Prioritize food, fuel, electricity
President Marcos is zeroing in on efforts to ensure enough food, fuel and electricity supply after inflation soared to 7.2 percent last month due to the Middle East conflict and recent disasters, Malacañang said.
80% of Pinoy children face violence – CEAP
Eighty percent of Filipino children have experienced some form of violence at home, school, workplace, community or in dating relationships, the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) revealed as it…
Palace seeks probe on Gracioso’s claims
Malacañang has called for a deeper probe into the claims of dismissed policeman Rodulfo Gracioso Jr. that he delivered more than P2 billion in cash to Vice President Sara Duterte and members of her family on the…
COA upholds disallowance of P73.29 million OVP secret funds
The Commission on Audit has affirmed with finality the disallowance against the Office of the Vice President (OVP)’s P73.29 million in confidential funds that were spent in just 11 days in December 2022.
DOH monitoring Russia outbreak
The Department of Health is closely monitoring developments in Russia involving the death of a laboratory technician at a plague research institute, as well as recommendations from the World Health Organization.
House OKs P7.2 trillion 2027 budget bill
The House of Representatives has approved on second reading the government’s proposed P7.2-trillion spending plan for fiscal year 2027.
DA: Rice imports may breach 5 million MT
The country is expected to import more than five million metric tons of rice this year to strengthen supply as domestic production is projected to decline due to the effects of El Niño, according to the Department of…
Malacanang defends Marcos over F1 Grand Prix criticism
As President Marcos faces criticism over his possible attendance to the Formula 1 Grand Prix here, Malacañang defended his invitation to the luxurious sporting event, saying good deals are forged not just in formal…
Nation
Cops seize P20.4 million worth of shabu in Zamboanga City
Policemen on Wednesday, October 7, seized P20.4 million worth of shabu from a dealer in Zamboanga City, who had eight accomplices entrapped in separate police operations in this city and in towns around in the past 10…
Peacebuilder Army officer takes Army brigade post
Bangsamoro regional officials were elated with the designation of a known peace advocate as the new commander of the Army’s 603rd Infantry Brigade, covering provinces outside of the autonomous region, but have enclaves…
Negros dengue deaths up amid fewer cases
Dengue-related deaths in Negros Island Region increased this year even as the number of cases has decreased.
P81.6 million shabu seized in Batangas
Shabu with an estimated street value of P81.6 million was seized in an anti-narcotics operation that also resulted in the arrest of four suspects at the port of Batangas yesterday.
2 victims of electrocution found in Quezon
Two bodies believed to be victims of electrocution were found in a mountainous area in this town on Tuesday.
‘Isabela vice mayor acted like an addict’
Following the outburst of Vice Mayor Jeryll Harold Respicio of Reina Mercedes, Isabela during a session of the Sangguniang Bayan, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the town official must undergo a drug test.
Rider summoned over road mishap involving TV host
The Land Transportation Office has summoned a motorcycle rider tagged in a hit-and-run incident in Antipolo Rizal involving a television host.
NGCP securing more power reserves for Visayas
The National Grid Corp. of the Philippines is intensifying efforts to secure additional power reserves and resolve electricity supply constraints in the Visayas.
PCSO chief promoted in PCGA
Coast Guard officials have bestowed the rank of auxiliary rear admiral to Mel Robles, general manager of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office.
Dimasalang Bridge opens October 20
The rehabilitated Dimasalang Bridge in Manila will reopen on Oct. 20, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways.
NCRPO: Beware of travel scams
The National Capital Region Police Office on Tuesday warned the public against fake hotel bookings, travel packages and other online promotions as demand for trips rises during the “ber” months.
LTFRB begins regularization process for ‘tempo’ TNV
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has issued a policy governing the regularization of Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) operating in Metro Manila under the so-called “tempo” status.
Regions
Tan quits as city administrator
Beleaguered Cebu City Administrator Albert Tan has resigned amid reports that he was being investigated over alleged irregularities in the city’s Bids and Awards Committee (BAC), where he served as chairperson.
P51.6 million additional educ budget OK’d
The Cebu Provincial School Board has approved a P51.6-million supplemental budget to fund additional education programs in the province, including the upcoming provincial sports and cultural meet and the construction of…
What the luck
Alex Eala and EJ Obiena had fun lip rapping with their Asian Games medals. Adorable collaboration. Wholesome. Never mind the brothers whose trashy video with a woman averse to fabric just turned their medals into scrap…
High five for Magis Eagles, UCLM juniors in CESAFI basketball
Reigning five-peat champions Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu Magis Eagles and the University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue (UCLM) stretched their perfect starts to 5-0 in the juniors division of the Cebu Schools…
Marquee Lancers-Cheetahs duel to close first round of elimination
An exciting battle between the two league leaders University of the Visayas Green Lancers and the Benedicto College Cheetahs will end the first round of elimination in the college division of the Cebu Schools Athletic…
Some senators, then and now
We were once a nation in euphoria.
The absolute pardon for Mary Jane Veloso
Was it legal, proper and reasonable for President BBM to pardon Mary Jane Veloso for a crime connected to illegal drugs committed in a foreign country, whereby she was arrested, prosecuted and convicted by a foreign…
Ecofairs, common goals, and, learnings
Ever grateful to all participants for our three Ecofairs together!
Banana chips ug diabetes
Lisod nang daan para ni Bise Presidente Sara Duterte ang pagpasabot atubangan sa senator judges sa iyang hulga pagpapatay nilang Presidente Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos ug kanhi House Speaker…
EDITORIAL - The tourism challenge
Here is some good news.
Business
Meralco: MVP group closes in on 50%
SMGP is selling 3.77m MER shares (0.33%) to Manuel V. Pangilinan personally at P580.99/sh, or P2.19 billion.
Condo absorption improves as incentives unlock demand
Metro Manila condo take-up rose 17% QoQ to 8,454 units in 3Q, while unsold inventory declined 3.5% to 80,000 units and months of supply fell to 28 from 34, according to Leechiu Property Consultants (LPC). Promotions and…
Labor market weakness points to softer household demand
Unemployment rose to 5.3% in August from 3.9% same period last year but is an improvement from July's 6.0%.
Inflation, infrastructure freeze seen to hamper property development
Rising living costs, a sharp drop in public works spending, and slowing economic growth continue to drag on property development.
Globe Network posts strongest 2026 performance in August, DICT report shows
The results build on Globe’s continued network investments and ongoing collaboration with the government.
ACEN boosts war chest with P3.5 billion ING loan
ACEN Corp. of the Zobel family has secured additional financing of €50 million (about P3.5 billion) from Dutch banking giant ING Bank N.V. to bolster its renewable energy expansion.
BPI Wealth assets breach P2 trillion, eyes 18% growth
The asset management arm of Ayala-led Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) expects its assets under management to grow by as much as 18 percent this year as Filipino investors increasingly turn to fixed-income…
Puregold Barangayan rolls out in 16 locations nationwide
Leading supermarket, Puregold Price Club Inc. is bringing its 28th anniversary celebration to communities across the country through Puregold Barangay Panalo, a nationwide program supported by the supermarket chain’s…
Condo demand picks up in Q3
Residential condominium take-up in Metro Manila posted robust growth during the third quarter, but real estate brokerage firm Leechiu Property Consultants Inc. (LPC) cautioned that the recent improvement should not yet…
West Cebu Estate expands with Aboitiz Foods feedmill
Aboitiz Economic Estates is strengthening West Cebu Estate’s position as an integrated industrial hub with the entry of Pilmico, an Aboitiz Foods company, as its newest locator.
PPA allots P1.35 billion for Ilocos Norte cruise port upgrade
One of the country’s dedicated ports for cruise arrivals in Luzon is getting a P1.35-billion budget for the construction of breakwater to reduce coastal risks and support marine navigation.
Philippines plans to mandate 1% SAF mix by 2030
The Philippines is exploring a one-percent sustainable aviation fuel blending mandate for the aviation sector by 2030, according to a senior energy official.
Factory output growth accelerates in August
The country’s manufacturing output expanded at a faster pace in August from the previous month, driven by electronic products and transport equipment, the Philippine Statistics Authority said.
Fixing water flow, restoring hope
Water is not just a resource — it is life itself. It fuels our bodies, kitchens, classrooms, hospitals and businesses. When it stops flowing, everything else stops with it.
Villar Group trims AllDay, AllHome stores
The Villar Group has trimmed its AllHome and AllDay branches as part of its store network optimization program.
SMPC: Semirara coal auction rules unfair
Semirara Mining and Power Corp. has pushed back against what it calls “unfair” rules governing the auction of the country’s largest coal mine, with the bidding process now facing another delay.
MVP hikes Meralco stake with P2.2 billion SMC deal
Tycoon Manuel V. Pangilinan has struck another deal with Ang-led San Miguel Corp.’s power arm to further tighten his hold on Manila Electric Co..
PSEi bounces back on bargain hunting
The local stock market bounced back as investors picked up bargain stocks following the previous day’s drop.The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index rose by 1.05 percent or 59.57 points to end yesterday’s session…
September inflation surge fuels rate-hike bets
Economists are increasingly expecting the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to hike interest rates again this month after inflation surged to 7.2 percent in September, as broadening price pressures and risks from oil…
GCash has an IPO problem – and it’s a good one
Mynt Inc. president and CEO Martha Sazon shares the overwhelming excitement of many investors and the public on what is set to be the biggest initial public offering (IPO) in the country.
Jobless Pinoys fall to 2.77 million in August
The country’s unemployment level declined in August from the previous month as more jobs were created in the agriculture sector, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.
Sports
Dumdumaya reminisces Augusta National experience
Filipino No. 1 amateur Jaden Dumdumaya has already experienced the magic of Augusta National, a pipe dream for many aspiring golfers.
PSAA esports gains major boost with new partnership
Esports gets a major boost as fast-rising snack and beverage company CreamLoops partners with the Philippine Schools Athletic Association (PSAA) for the school-based league’s first-ever esports competition in its fifth…
Carlos Yulo banners latest Philippine sports standouts with double Asiad golds
It’s the Olympics of Asia, and who better to take up the cudgels for Team Philippines than the GOAT of Filipino Olympians himself, Carlos Yulo?
Eala embraces pressure brought by huge fanbase
Overwhelming support and love from fans could be a double-edged sword for athletes.
Eala up for bump in Wuhan Open seedings
Alex Eala is projected to move up in the seedings of the Wuhan Open next week after the withdrawal of some big guns led by World No. 1 Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan.
Quezon, Cebu seize MPBL playoff openers
The Quezon Huskers and the Cebu Greats took different victory routes.
Ageless Lascuña adds another crown to trophy haul
Tony Lascuña’s hunger for success remains undiminished.
Thunderbelles to grace Mighty Sports volleyball courts inauguration
Two weeks after the inauguration of its basketball courts, Mighty Sports Center will officially open its volleyball courts at AcroCity in Guiguinto, Bulacan on Saturday, October 10, in what promises to be another…
Blood pressure, heart issues put Brownlee out of Gilas commission for Asian Games -- Cone
Health concerns dashed Justin Brownlee out of the 2026 Asian Games, Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone said.
Ateneo head coach Louie Alas breaks down Blue Eagles loss to Archers
“Nawala ang sharpness namin.”
Pacquiao holds the mitts for Polish president
A president and a former senator walked into a gym.
Palawan juniors tennis returns to Mindanao for two-week talent hunt
The country’s longest-running grassroots tennis talent-search returns to Mindanao for another two-week swing, with the Palawan Pawnshop Juniors Age Group Tennis Championships getting under way Thursday.
Bisera targets third LPGT title in ICTSI Pueblo de Oro golf tilt
After missing an overseas campaign, ace Davaoeña Yvon Bisera has turned the setback into a golden opportunity, setting her sights on a dominant third victory of the season at home.
History made in Nagoya
Now that the hostilities are over, it’s time to review the Philippine delegation’s performance at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. These are the numbers that point to historic milestones
Ababa eyes back-to-back PGT victories in Pueblo
Having snapped a two-year title drought, Jhonnel Ababa hopes to ride the momentum and growing confidence from his victory last week as he shoots for back-to-back championships in the ICTSI Pueblo de Oro Championship…
mWell puts mental health at center of UAAP community wellness
Mental health goes beyond the playing court – it affects students, athletes, alumni, coaches and supporters across the UAAP community.
Philippines targets four golds in Asian Para Games
he 69-strong Philippine differently abled team will have tempered expectations and hopeful hearts as it wades into battle in the 5th Asian Para Games slated Oct. 18 to 24 in Nagoya, JapanFrom a pair of strong 10-gold…
Bulldogs bite back, clip Falcons
National U did not stay down for long.
Burton fuels record rout
When NLEX needed a replacement for injured DeQuan Jones last August just before the PBA Governors’ Cup went on a 53-day break, coach Jimmy Alapag didn’t look too far.
PSC steps in, Phlilippines Open lives on with $1 million prize
Asia’s oldest national golf championship will go on – and with a $1 million prize fund to match its prestige.
Entertainment
Fil-Brit Beabadoobee sets Manila return in summer 2027
Beabadoobee is returning to the Philippines for her biggest concert in the country.
'The Social Reckoning' review: Facebook stokes fires in Sorkin's sharp exposé
Aaron Sorkin knows how to spark discussion even though he has conventional ways of starting them.
Alex Eala recalls Anna Wintour meeting on Maria Sharapova podcast
Everyone gets that nerve-racking feeling when meeting Anna Wintour for the first time, including Alex Eala.
Noah Centineo reveals co-star Andrew Koji as diehard 'Street Fighter' fan
Noah Centineo had a ball working opposite Andrew Koji in the upcoming "Street Fighter."
Bea Binene talks about ‘happy’ relationship with Wilbert Ross
Actress Bea Binene has opened up about the current status of her relationship with actor and singer Wilbert Ross.
Niña Jose speaks up after netizens notice weight loss
Former actress and current Bayambang, Pangasinan Mayor Niña Jose has responded to comments about her noticeable weight loss after her recent photos sparked discussions online.
Maui Taylor: Viva Hot Babes game to collab with Sexbomb
Maui Taylor redefines what being a hot mama is.
ABS-CBN News takes storytelling where the audience is
If there’s one thing ABS-CBN News has learned from its growing digital push, it’s that what works on television doesn’t automatically work online.
Shuvee and Anthony revisit first online exchange that started beautiful friendship
This was the first online exchange between GMA Sparkle artists Shuvee Etrata and Anthony Constantino, which eventually led to the beginning of their beautiful friendship.
Lifestyle
Food scene: Refreshed Yakitori menu, return of 'Amburger'
A refreshing menu and dining experience while keeping the traditional art of Yakitori await diners at this popular Japanese restaurant chain.
Snack attack: Chicken and fries treats
Here is a list of ongoing promotions to satisfy that craving.
Tecno unveils Camon Slim 5G in runway show celebrating Filipino women who make life lighter
Tecno turned the evening into a visual story around the idea of “Make It Lighter.”
FHM stages comeback in digital format
FHM is making a comeback as a digital-first platform.
'Chicago' musical to mark Manila return in 2027 after over a decade
Hit production "Chicago the Musical" is coming back to wow the Philippines once more.
PH's Mangkukulam thrills Miss Grand Int'l 2026 national costume show
The costumes, varying in size and theme, all presented a side of each country’s mythical/mythological, cultural, traditional, and even message to the world like Nepal’s prayer for its recovery.
Pre-order and own the latest iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max for as low as P137 per day with Home Credit
With lower upfront costs and longer payment terms, Home Credit gives customers greater flexibility.
A taste of home
How Filipino flavors, spirits, and stories are giving the UK a new way to discover the Philippines
Ambassador of Ghana to the Philippines honored in luncheon by Honorary Consul Betty Chua
On Sept. 3, a distinguished Farewell and Honor Luncheon was held at 12 p.m. at Peking Hall, Canton Road, Shangri-La The Fort, honoring Her Excellency Florence Buerki-Akonor, Non-Resident Ambassador of Ghana to the…
Opinion
Rethinking Germany-Philippines maritime cooperation in the era of global ruptures
Amid a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, maritime security has emerged as a growing common concern that knows no geographical bounds — one that looks beyond threats that emerge from the waters and extends to the…
Francis Lim at SEC
There is a new man at the Securities and Exchange Commission.
From Yolanda’s ruins to the future of health care
The Department of Health’s slogan, “Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Buhay Mahalaga” (“In the New Philippines, Every Life Matters”), echoes a timeless constitutional principle that the state should actively protect and…
Taiwan versus China
Just this week there was a confrontation between Chinese and Taiwan ships in the waters between Taiwan and the Philippines.
‘Standard practice’
A lot of the troubles plaguing our country today stem from a deeply entrenched set of disturbing practices – passed on from one administration to another, from one generation to the next, from boss to boss and so on.
Stickiness
Our inflation rate shot up to 7.2 percent in September.
EDITORIAL - DPWH red flags
With the flood control mess still unresolved and the near-freeze in public construction pulling down gross domestic product, you’d think the Department of Public Works and Highways would streamline its presentation of…
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