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Friday, 16 October · 96 stories

WATCH: Super El Niño is coming: How should Filipinos prepare?

In this episode of Long Story Short, Philstar.com explains how a possible Super El Niño could affect water supply, agriculture and food security in the Philippines, and how Filipinos can prepare.

6:00 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

DepEd program for struggling students left with 2% of needed funds in House budget

A tutoring program that the Department of Education credits with cutting the number of struggling readers by two-thirds stands to lose nearly all its funding next year — one of several items Education Secretary Sonny…

5:20 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

NBI subpoenas ‘Machong Chismisan’ hosts over ‘walang kwenta’ jab at Josh Aquino

The National Bureau of Investigation has subpoenaed the five hosts of the podcast “Machong Chismisan” over an episode in which one of them called Kris Aquino’s eldest son, Josh, who is on the autism spectrum, “walang…

4:23 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Sara Duterte was told prosecutors might drop 3 impeachment charges

Vice President Sara Duterte and her defense team had an inkling that House prosecutors would reduce the impeachment case against her to a single charge, as rumors of the move had already been abound, two of her defense…

1:32 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Marcos: Chinese ambassador's force remark ‘sounds very much like a threat’

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Friday, October 16, that Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan’s remark about China’s ability to use force “sounds very much like a threat and not a diplomatic statement to be made.”

10:33 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Lawyer urges Supreme Court to clarify ruling on senior discounts, promos

In a statement on Thursday, October 15, senior citizen advocate lawyer Romulo Macalintal warned that the decision could be exploited by business establishments to evade granting

7:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Amendments to ‘archaic’ anti-espionage law sought

To strengthen the country’s defense against modern security threats, Senate President Pro Tempore Vicente Sotto III has pushed for the amendment of the country’s outdated anti-espionage law.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Refuting dropped raps vs Sara a waste of time– prosecutors

The decision to withdraw three of the four Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte was meant to expedite the proceedings, the prosecution panel of the House of Representatives said yesterday.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

NBI chief dares VP: File case over properties probe

National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag is challenging Vice President Sara Duterte to file a case if she believes that the NBI is biased in its investigation on properties linked to her family.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Lacson vows scrutiny of House realignments in 2027 budget

Sen. Panfilo Lacson has vowed to scrutinize billions in realignments in the House of Representatives’ version of the proposed P7.2-trillion national budget for 2027, including funding for Foreign-Assisted Projects…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

P3.5 billion Laos drugs linked to Davao-based group?

The National Bureau of Investigation is pursuing leads, but has yet to establish evidence that a Davao-based drug syndicate is allegedly behind the attempt to smuggle 512 kilos of suspected shabu into the country…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Poll: Inflation, corruption top concerns of Pinoys

More than four years into the Marcos administration, reducing the basic cost of goods remains the most urgent concern of most Filipinos, based on a recent survey conducted by Pulse Asia.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

PCC slaps P1.76 billion fine on 2022 onion cartel

The Philippine Competition Commission has imposed a record fine of P1.76 billion on six firms whose activities as an onion cartel sent retail prices soaring to as high as P800 a kilo in 2022.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

China envoy urges dialogue on West Philippine Sea tensions

Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan has urged the Philippines to exercise caution in discussing its maritime dispute with his country, calling for face-to-face dialogues to manage tensions as officials and analysts pushed for…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Pulse: VP Sara ratings still higher than Marcos Jr’s

Even with the ongoing impeachment trial against her, Vice President Sara Duterte continues to enjoy much higher trust and approval ratings than President Marcos, a survey for the third quarter conducted by Pulse Asia…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Ex-Co aide: P1 billion brought to Romualdez’s house

A former bodyguard of Zaldy Co told the Sandiganbayan that 100 suitcases containing P1 billion in cash were delivered from 2023 to 2024 to the home of former House speaker Martin Romualdez.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Sectors welcome Marcos' recognition of BARMM parliament bloc

An influential peace-advocacy group on Friday, October 16, thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his prompt recognition of the newly-formed ruling 46-member bloc of elected members in the 80-seat Bangsamoro…

5:53 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

BARMM chief's call to uphold Bangsamoro autonomy, respect Parliament mandate gain support

The Bangsamoro Initiative for Peace, Progress and Solidarity (BIPPS) has backed Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua’s call to uphold Bangsamoro autonomy, respect the mandate of duly elected Parliament members, and allow…

2:00 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Bulacan cop dismissed for assault on partner

A member of the Bulacan police has been dismissed from the service for allegedly assaulting his live-in partner, according to the National Police Commission.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

COC filing for Batanes special poll ends today

Filing of certificates of candidacy for a special election in the lone legislative district of Batanes will end today, according to the Commission on Elections.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

16 online sex exploitation victims rescued in Rizal, GenSan

Fifteen minors and an adult allegedly sold by their parents for online sex exploitation were rescued in Cainta, Rizal and General Santos City on Tuesday, according to the police Women and Children Protection Center.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Village chief shot dead in Batangas

A barangay chairman was shot dead by two unidentified assailants who barged into his house in Sto. Tomas, Batangas yesterday morning.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Increased support sought for DA truck rebate program

Toll operators have been urged to support and participate in a rebate program of the Department of Agriculture (DA), which aims to help lessen the impact of rising fuel prices on vehicles transporting agricultural…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Cyberlibel case vs STAR reporter junked

The Office of the City Prosecutor has dismissed for lack of evidence a cyberlibel complaint filed by a board member of Northern Samar against The STAR correspondent Miriam Desacada.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Ilocos Sur workers seeking wage hike

Workers in Ilocos Sur are seeking an increase of P90 to P190 in their daily pay, citing the high cost of commodities.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Lotto 6/58 pot almost P400 million

The jackpot prize for the Ultra Lotto 6/58 is almost breaching the P400-million threshold, as the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office expects the pot in tonight’s draw to hit P399 million.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

PITX: Asean long weekend may affect travel schedules

Fewer travelers are expected to flock to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange for the Undas break, in light of the five-day long weekend in Metro Manila to make way for the 49th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit in…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Valenzuela wins 2026 Most Business-Friendly LGU award

vValenzuela has been named the 2026 Most Business-Friendly local government unit in the highly urbanized cities category in the National Capital Region – a recognition of the city’s efforts to streamline business…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Power market opens to smaller businesses with lower threshold

More Philippine businesses can negotiate their electricity costs directly with suppliers after the government lowered the threshold for participation in the competitive power market, giving smaller commercial and…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Killer robots: Machines deciding who lives and who dies.

I hate to say that: This isn’t a future problem. It’s happening now. We and our children are the ‘collateral damage’ in AI-led wars

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

CV tourism accreditations rise 25% on fee waiver

The number of tourism establishments accredited by the Department of Tourism in Central Visayas rose 25 percent from a year earlier, as the government continues to waive processing fees to encourage more businesses to…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Cebu Greats sweep Batangas, barge into South Division semis

The fifth-seeded Cebu Greats completed a two-game sweep of the fourth-ranked Batangas City Tanduay Athletics with a thrilling 70-67 victory in their best-of-three South Division quarterfinal series in the Maharlika…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Ending the noise about “Mary Grace Piattos”

Who would have thought the very camp that made all the noise about Mary Grace Piattos would be the one to put an end to it in a shocking twist in the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte?

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

The Calderons should give way to Gungun Gicae

The younger generations, the students and the youth in general, the civil society, and the silent majority that control two thirds of the voting populace in Cebu’s 7th District, are sick and tired of traditional…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

EDITORIAL — An epic pail

With the super El Niño threatening to cause a long and pronounced drought some people are now taking precautions to make sure they will not have problems accessing water later on.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Growth opportunities loom for Philippine housing market despite headwinds

The Philippine residential property market continues to demonstrate underlying demand despite economic headwinds, with affordable condominiums, government housing initiatives, and emerging regional growth centers…

4:00 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

ASEAN forges agreement on postal cooperation

The Philippine Postal Corp. successfully concluded its hosting of the 32nd ASEAN Postal Business Meeting (APBM) and the 2026 ASEANPOST++ Meeting, bringing together postal leaders and representatives from ASEAN member…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Inside Leon Gallery’s September auction results

The Leon Gallery’s Magnificent September Auction 2026 concluded last Sept. 12, posting strong results across both modern fine art pieces and historical artifacts.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

DigiPlus withdraws application for New Zealand gaming license

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. is not pursuing its application for an online gaming license in New Zealand.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

JTI gives new shape to smoking

As more consumers warm up to heated tobacco products , leading global player Japan Tobacco International is taking it a step further by rolling out a fresh lineup of HTP-supported devices.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Phinma banks on condotels as emerging growth driver

Phinma Corp., the diversified conglomerate of the Del Rosario Group, wants to dip its toes into more condotel projects following a successful maiden venture.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

UPS opens $80 million Clark hub

Logistics giant United Parcel Service opened its new Clark hub yesterday after investing more than $80 million (approximately P5.04 billion), marking its largest investment in the Philippines to date to expand its…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Reports differ →

The eclectic revival of MCS

The Rufino-owned Makati Central Square is finally undertaking an eclectic revival to attract more of the Filipino millennials and Gen Z crowd that frequent Poblacion.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

ERC lifts capacity limits on new power facilities

The Energy Regulatory Commission has lifted capacity limits on new power plants, allowing developers to build larger facilities to help meet the country’s growing electricity demand.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Telcos pass new round of NTC’s quality checks

The country’s biggest telcos registered better mobile speeds in the latest round of service quality checks conducted by the National Telecommunications Commission in four cities in Metro Manila.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Philex resolves labor strike

Philex Mining Corp. said yesterday it has resolved the labor dispute at its Padcal mine in Benguet, after union members and company officials reached a settlement agreement.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Balde-baldeng problema

BBM was perhaps just trying to be dramatic when he urged the people to secure water pails or balde to prepare for the long dry spell of a Super El Niño. But he unconsciously revealed the hopelessness of our situation…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Stocks recover as investors scoop up bargains

Share prices recovered after two days of decline as investors scooped up stocks at lower prices, with foreign fund inflows lending support to the market.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Remittances rise 2% to $3.37 billion in August

Personal remittances from overseas Filipinos rose by two percent to $3.37 billion in August from $3.31 billion in the same period last year, sustaining growth despite global uncertainties, according to the Bangko…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Peso crosses 63 to $1 level

The peso breached the 63-to-a-dollar level yesterday, closing at a fresh record low as US inflation heated up, reinforcing expectations of prolonged high interest rates and boosting the dollar against emerging-market…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Fuel Masters nip Bolts to boost quarters bid

Phoenix ran away in the final quarter to storm past Meralco, 105-101, in their PBA Governors’ Cup matchup Friday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

9:56 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Villegas nails game-winner as Pirates avoid upset axe vs Stags

Renz Villegas hit a mid-range jumper with 1.1 seconds remaining to save the Lyceum Pirates from an upset against the San Sebastian College Stags, 78-77, in their NCAA Season 102 clash Friday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre…

8:52 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

FiberXers send Giant Pandas packing in 54-point demolition

So long and farewell, Macau Giant Pandas.

7:49 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Cuenco in command as Cardinals swoop past Altas for overtime win

Cyrus Cuenco took over in overtime to tow the Mapua Cardinals over the Perpetual Help Altas, 65-60, in their NCAA Season 102 men’s basketball clash Friday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

6:23 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Lady Knights fan playoff hopes, oust Lady Red Spikers

Letran breathed life into its playoffs hopes after eliminating San Beda University from contention, 25-22, 25-14, 25-21, in Pool A of the 2026 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Unity Cup on Friday at the Rizal Memorial…

5:53 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Yulos eye to shine together anew at artistic gymnastics worlds

Carlos Yulo aims to add another gold medal to his vast collection, while younger brother Eldrew eyes his first right on his debut in the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships unfolding Saturday in Rotterdam, the…

3:47 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Tight finishes set stage for ICTSI South Pacific Classic

A string of one-shot victories and dramatic finishes has set the tone for the Philippine Golf Tour, and the ICTSI South Pacific Classic looms as another test of nerve and precision when the P2.5-million championship…

3:27 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Maroons wary of win-starved Red Warriors

After getting back on its feet from a slight stumble, five-time finalist University of the Philippines wants no let-up and definitely a massive upset at the hands of the winless University of the East in a bid to seize…

3:06 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Knicks tipped to top NBA East; Spurs emerge as title favorites

The New York Knicks are the defending NBA champions and the overwhelming favorites to win the Eastern Conference. But when it comes to picking the next champion, league executives are looking elsewhere.

3:03 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Jordan Clarkson hoping for another Gilas stint before 'hanging it up'

Jordan Clarkson has already reached the NBA mountaintop, but the Filipino-American guard still has unfinished business with Gilas Pilipinas.

1:34 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Stakeholders given more say in Philippine volleyball team formation

Stakeholders will now have a direct and stronger voice in the formation of the national volleyball teams heading into major international tournaments.

1:21 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Knicks buck shaky start, escape Raptors in last preseason gig

The defending NBA champions New York Knicks got one final dress rehearsal before raising their championship banner, holding off the Toronto Raptors, 122-120, at a sold-out Madison Square Garden.

12:50 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Dwyane Wade all praises for 'active Hall of Famer' Erik Spoelstra

“Not afraid of the work.”

11:05 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

What’s bothering Alex?

Critics are calling Alex Eala’s recent losses to lower-ranked players a slump, something that tennis players experience as a result of burn-out or distractions or internal team dissension or an inability to adjust to…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Alinsunurin back as Alas Men coach

The Philippine National Volleyball Federation has begun delivering its promised organizational reforms with a major overhaul aimed at boosting the national teams in future international competitions.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Generals fight back from 19 down

Emilio Aguinaldo College threw a defensive anvil on St. Benilde in the second half as it eked out a shock 86-78 victory yesterday to revive its floundering campaign in NCAA Season 102 at the Filoil Center.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Zaragosa rules Pueblo

Rupert Zaragosa summoned precision to overcome his lack of length, delivered clutch birdies when the pressure peaked, then endured an anxious final-hole bogey before discovering he had done enough to win the ICTSI…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Fuel Masters unleash Earlington

Can new import Marcellus Earlington finish what BJ Johnson started and further fuel Phoenix’ drive for the crucial stages of the PBA Governors’ Cup?

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Super Bella on fire

Where Bella Belen goes, the Capital1 Solar Spikers follow.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

'Street Fighter' review: Big characters in need of bigger fights

Fight sequences are overshadowed by the assembled cast's characterizations which demand much bigger and more exciting battles.

4:16 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

'Unconventional, unapologetic': M1ss Jade So vows to represent queer, trans artists well

M1ss Jade So admitted it was honor to massively lift the visibility of her community while also pointing out the pressure of being a trailblazer.

3:31 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Dingdong Dantes, Mae Cruz-Alviar exchanges praises as collaborators anew

Dingdong Dantes and Mae Cruz-Alviar are cherishing the opportunity to work with each other for a third time, noting how professional a creative the other is.

2:50 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Alden Richards’ scholar graduates Magna Cum Laude from PUP

Kapuso actor Alden Richards congratulated one of his scholars, Seanvinzer Dones, who graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines…

1:29 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Maymay Entrata, Baby Dolls, Carmelle also enter Grammys race

More chances of an OPM artist getting nominated at the Grammys!

1:07 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Bianca Manalo cites national duty as reason for Win Gatchalian split

Bianca Manalo is civil with her ex-boyfriend Sherwin Gatchalian.

12:43 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Ate Gay’s family, friends gather for comedian’s ‘living funeral’

Comedian Ate Gay, whose real name is Gil Aducal Morales, was surrounded by family and friends during a “living funeral” held on Thursday, Oct. 15, in Biñan, Laguna.

11:32 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Kim Kardashian marks 46th birthday early in the Philippines

Kim Kardashian flew over to the Philippines for an early birthday celebration.

11:22 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Kris Aquino expresses love, support for son Josh following viral remarks

Kris Aquino lightly addressed the issue involving her eldest son Josh

10:24 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Krystel Go calls for respect for PWDs amid Joshua Aquino podcast controversy

Actress Krystel Go has called for respect and inclusion for persons with disabilities (PWDs) following the backlash over the “Machong Chismisan” podcast hosts’ remarks about Joshua Aquino, son of Kris Aquino.

10:06 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Bailey May makes showbiz comeback with Sparkle

Sparkle GMA Artist Center has signed actors John Wayne Alba, Jason Lopez and Bailey May to its talent roster, marking a new chapter in their respective entertainment careers.

8:57 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Weekend list: Breast cancer awareness, culture festivals, comeback shows

The middle of October sees celebrations of culture, concerts, and breast cancer awareness all over the country.

8:41 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

WilBea hopes to make original ‘Pee Mak’ cast proud

Getting the support of the original “Pee Mak” stars, particularly Thai superstar Mario Maurer, was an encouraging surprise for Wilbert Ross and Bea Binene as they prepared to bring their own version of the hit…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

WilBea hopes to make original ‘Pee Mak’ cast proud lie

Getting the support of the original “Pee Mak” stars, particularly Thai superstar Mario Maurer, was an encouraging surprise for Wilbert Ross and Bea Binene as they prepared to bring their own version of the hit…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Surprises, swoon-worthy moments at Byeon Woo-seok’s ‘Secret Library’ in Manila

South Korean actor Byeon Woo-seok hoped to be remembered as someone who brought happiness to his fans during his “The Secret Library in Manila” fan meet on Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Smart bares iPhone Duo pre-order offers

Smart on Friday announced its pre-order offers for the much-anticipated iPhone Duo, Apple’s first foldable iPhone.

4:31 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Brigade of culinary visionaries ushers in a new dining era at Novotel Manila Araneta City

Although Freshfinity, Indulge Gelato & Bakery, Gourmet Bar and the banquet kitchens occupy their own culinary worlds.

1:45 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Women's and children's rights take center stage at advocacy presser

An advocacy group underscored the need for women and children to have equal access to resources and decision-making without fear of violence.

1:34 PMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Bosch Home Philippines redefines modern kitchens with Black Series 8 Cooking Range

Designed for today’s modern homes, the new collection brings together a sophisticated black glass aesthetic.

11:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

First in line: iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max launch draws midnight crowd

Midnight launch events were also held at other locations around the country, giving Apple fans more opportunities to welcome the new iPhones.

10:19 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Life Insurance Consciousness Month: Sun Life urges Filipinos to turn financial awareness into action

For Sun Life Philippines, staying ahead means building on financial strength while expanding access to protection.

9:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

To catch the big fish

’Smuggling is smuggling, whether it is P10 million or less,‘ the BOC chief stressed.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Aside from water pail, BBM can do these vs El Niño

Don’t just buy a pail to collect rainwater before the very strong El Niño.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

National reset

Whether it is standing in gridlocked metropolitan traffic, watching grocery bills climb alongside daily electricity rates, enduring sudden power outages, searching underfunded public hospitals for basic medicines or…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Very hard to ignore

Even for apolitical Filipinos who would rather get on with their lives than watch the circus by the bay, the decision of the prosecution panel to withdraw three Articles of Impeachment in the trial of VP Sara Duterte is…

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

The prosecution rests its case

There’s one undeniable consequence of the prosecution’s dropping of three articles of impeachment and resting its case against Sara Duterte: it significantly shortens the proceedings.

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

EDITORIAL— An onion cartel

Remember when onions made many Filipinos cry?

12:00 AMRead on Philstar →Discuss

Headlines and excerpts come from Philstar's public news feeds. Full stories are on Philstar's own site.