Marcoleta suspended for 90 days over plunder charges
The Sandiganbayan Third Division has ordered the preventive suspension of Sen. Rodante Marcoleta from his post as a senator due to plunder charges.
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Philstar
Monday, 19 October · 103 stories
Top stories
Need a document notarized? Supreme Court launches online service
The public can now notarize their documents online through three accredited platforms.
No Pinoys arrested or hurt in France unrest — embassy
The Philippine Embassy in France said that no Filipinos had been arrested and no casualties involving Filipino nationals had been reported amid the unrest in the country.
Marcos does not want Chinese ambassador expelled, says Palace
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has not signaled any intent to declare China’s ambassador persona non grata, the Palace said on Monday, October 19, though the Chinese diplomat today has been officially summoned by the…
3 in 5 schools still without security guards despite campus shootings
The Department of Education is asking the Senate for an additional P8.18 billion in its 2027 budget to hire security guards and install metal detectors and perimeter fences in public schools, following three deadly…
Teachers’ group says looser uniform rules won’t fix classroom heat during strong El Niño
A teachers’ group has urged the Department of Education to shorten class hours when necessary, adopt hybrid learning arrangements and invest in classroom cooling amid the looming El Niño.
'Champi' maintains strength, may regain super typhoon strength before entering PAR
Typhoon Champi may regain super typhoon strength as it approaches the country's monitoring area, with tropical cyclone wind signals potentially reaching No. 3 or 4 over parts of Luzon.
Defense reporters to China embassy: Words have consequences
The DPC turned a familiar warning by the Chinese government back on the embassy: “Words have consequences. Every statement issued and every interview given carries consequences, whether intended or not."
Raffy Tulfo, Padilla, Cayetano, Vico Sotto statistically tied in hypothetical 2028 Senate race
Sens. Raffy Tulfo, Robin Padilla, Alan Peter Cayetano and Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto are statistically tied at the top of a hypothetical 2028 senatorial race, according to the latest Tugon ng Masa survey by OCTA…
‘Champi’ may re-intensify into super typhoon, to enter PAR Tuesday
Typhoon Champi has weakened as it moved west-northwestward over the sea west of Guam, but may re-intensify into a super typhoon.
China taking advantage of VP impeachment raps?
The Chinese ambassador’s provocative remarks against the Philippine government and its officials may actually be a ploy of Beijing to create more internal political havoc on the highly divisive impeachment issue of Vice…
DENR expands watershed repairs, forest protection vs El Niño
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has stepped up its mitigation efforts on watershed restoration and forest protection to address water supply concerns amid El Niño.
‘Stop pitting President Marcos vs VP Sara’
President Marcos has his hands full and is simply beyond comparison with Vice President Sara Duterte, who is just waiting for the former to be incapacitated, for her to take over the reins of government, a former…
Evidence on dropped impeachment raps going to ombudsman
Documentary and testimonial evidence against Vice President Sara Duterte on the three impeachment charges House prosecutors have dropped will be turned over to the ombudsman for possible prosecution of criminal offenses.
MBC hopes impeachment trial over by year-end
Business group Makati Business Club (MBC) has expressed support for concluding the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte within the year to allow the Senate to thoroughly review the budget that will support…
Chinese embassy: Persona non grata threat an old trick
The Chinese embassy in Manila warned that anyone who tries to provoke China will be “pushed back,” as it challenged politicians moving to declare its top diplomat in the country persona non grata to “do it quickly and…
Navy launches 3rd offshore patrol vessel
The Philippine Navy launched its third offshore patrol vessel, the future BRP Rajah Humabon, in Ulsan, South Korea, as part of its modernization program, the Navy said yesterday.
Go seeks review of PSC charter
Sen. Bong Go called for a review of the 36-year-old charter of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to strengthen its capacity to serve Filipino athletes, expand its reach beyond Metro Manila and respond more…
Hernando, Inting out of contention for chief justice
Two senior justices of the Supreme Court (SC) were not included in the list of the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) as nominees to become the next chief justice despite invitations for them to apply.
Oil stockpiling deal eyed between Philippines, United States
The United States, a key actor in the Middle East war that has rattled global fuel supply chains, is now keen to help the Philippines establish its planned strategic petroleum reserves.
Nation
P4.4 million worth of shabu seized in Mindanao operations
Anti-narcotics agents seized P4.4 million worth of shabu in separate operations in two Mindanao regions on Friday, October 16, made peculiar with the support to both by relatives of the target traffickers whom they want…
Military units honor soldiers, cops killed in 2017 Marawi conflict
Military units based in southern cities and provinces honored, via special rites on Saturday, October 17, the soldiers and policemen killed in action during the bloody 2017 siege of 12 barangays in Marawi City by the…
National government nod on hand for BARMM leadership choices
The national government will respect the Bangsamoro Parliament’s authority to choose its leadership and will not intervene in the process.
Ateneo de Zamboanga tightens security after threat reports
The school administration confirmed that while security officials are taking the circulating reports seriously, they have not identified a substantiated threat based on verified information so far.
Bataan residents get free e-shuttle rides
Residents of the 11 towns in this province will soon have access to free electric shuttle rides to the Capitol here, as the dry run of the point-to-point Libreng Sakay program begins.
Comelec reminds Naga voters of plebiscite prohibitions
The Commission on Elections is reminding voters and stakeholders in Naga City, Camarines Sur of the prohibited activities on Nov. 21, when residents will vote on Naga’s proposed conversion into a highly urbanized city.
DPWH: Biliran Bridge is structurally sound
The swaying of the Biliran Bridge is normal, even as videos that have gone viral have drawn concern on the structure’s safety, the Department of Public Works and Highways has clarified.
Super El Niño threatens 44,772 hectares of Cordillera farmland
The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Cordillera has identified 10 areas in the region that are vulnerable to a potentially stronger El Niño, threatening 44,772 hectares of rice and corn farmlands.
PNP on heightened alert in BARMM
The Philippine National Police heightened its security measures across parts of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to preempt potential retaliatory attacks in the BARMM, following the death of four…
Grand Lotto prize to hit P284 million
The jackpot in the Grand Lotto 6/55 is expected to reach P284 million for tonight’s draw.
PNP taps LGUs vs POGO hubs
To detect illegal Philippine offshore gaming operations, the Philippine National Police has directed PNP station commanders to work with local government units (LGUs) as investigators examine electronic devices seized…
BOC to decide on row with HPG
Bureau of Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno is expected to make a decision within the week after obtaining the administrative investigation report on BOC personnel’s confrontation with the police Highway Patrol…
12,325 cops deployed for Undas
The Metro Manila police will deploy an initial 12,325 personnel for the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.
Regions
Visayas biz groups urged to convert passenger traffic to local spending
Business chambers across the Visayas are being urged to develop market-ready tourism products and link island destinations through Cebu as industry groups seek to convert rising passenger traffic into local spending and…
DTI backs city waste recycling scheme ordinance
The Department of Trade and Industry has expressed support for Cebu City’s proposed ordinance requiring recycling bins and deposit-return schemes for bottles and cans, but said enforcement should be gradual and…
Supplier defends doubled costs on waste disposal
A waste disposal corporation has moved to defend itself amid mounting scrutiny over why its waste processing proposal for Cebu City nearly doubled in cost.
Council urges offices to protect typhoon-altered rivers
Almost a year after Typhoon Tino altered the rivers and streams in Cebu City’s upland barangays, the City Council has ordered several government offices to step in and protect the affected waterways from unlawful…
Mandaue to secure cemeteries for Kalag-Kalag
Emergency response teams, police personnel, and barangay workers will be deployed to Mandaue City cemeteries during the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day to ensure public safety and provide immediate…
Entertainer arrested for striking ex-girlfriend
A 23-year-old entertainer was arrested after allegedly hitting his 26-year-old former girlfriend on the head with a cellphone when she refused to reconcile with him in Barangay Banilad, Cebu City.
Cops nab 3 suspects in Tisa shooting that killed barber
Three suspects were arrested early Sunday, October 18, following a hot pursuit operation in Barangay Pardo, Cebu City in connection with the fatal shooting of a 25-year-old barber in Barangay Tisa.
3rd Cor Jesu Cup to feature all-to-play format
Driven by its commitment to equal opportunities and grassroots development, the 3rd Cor Jesu Invitational Volleyball Tournament will introduce an all-to-play format on November 7-8 at Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu…
CESAFI Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Season 26 basketball tournament
The Benedicto College Cheetahs reaffirmed their mastery over the University of Cebu Webmasters, 67-64, to stay on top of the, Inc.ebu Schools Athletic Foundation) Season 26 basketball tournament on Saturday, October 17…
Business
Singlife Philippines appoints Allen Reyes as CEO
Singlife Philippines has appointed Allen Reyes as its new Chief Executive Officer. Reyes previously served as the company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
HIMSCON 2026 advances the future of HIMS through innovation, skills and sustained care
With HIMSCON 2026, the future of Philippine healthcare is anchored in bringing technology, expertise and human connection.
Grab for Business announces integration with Concur Expense to modernize business travel management across Southeast Asia
This integration creates a more connected and automated experience for finance teams and employees alike.
TNT wins gold award at Smarties Philippines
TNT, the value brand of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), has won a gold award at the recent Smarties Philippines for its network campaign under the Creator/Influencer/Celebrity Marketing (Impact Marketing) category.
Telco cites P1.2 billion in measurable business value from AI initiatives
One of the country’s major telcos said it has generated P1.2 billion in measurable business benefits from its artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives.
Living on Hail Marys
It is perhaps a good thing that we Filipinos are religious and that we believe in the power of collective prayer to save us from danger, because somehow — at least in my lifetime — there have been several instances when…
MDBs pledge timely support amid headwinds
Multilateral development banks (MDBs) are ready to provide support to developing countries in dealing with shocks amid global uncertainty, according to the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
BSP profit more than doubles to P170.2 billion
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) more than doubled its net income to P170.2 billion in the first seven months of 2026 as foreign exchange gains surged and interest expenses declined.
Irresponsible House budget
After the ghost flood control and pork funding scandal caused a major disruption to our economy, the House of Representatives still couldn’t resist its evil streak and passed a budget as horrible and irresponsible as in…
Rotation
US tech stocks, which had led the stock markets to record highs, fell sharply last week.
Mitsubishi open to boosting HEV production, joining RACE
Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) may spend more than the planned P7 billion investment for hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) production under the EV Incentive Strategy (EVIS), even as it keeps the door open to the…
Igloo to expand services in Philippines
Al-native insurtech firm Igloo is looking to deepen its presence in the Philippines by expanding its services and partnerships with digital platforms, an official said.
LNGPH spending P6 billion for LNG storage expansion
LNGPH, the multibillion-dollar venture of tycoons Manuel V. Pangilinan, Sabin Aboitiz and Ramon Ang, is looking to spend roughly P6 billion to expand its liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage capacity.
Bad news for coffee lovers: Lean harvest may lead to higher coffee prices
Bernardo Sotelo Jr. is the head barista for Masa Bakehouse, a well-known café in San Juan, La Union. He says that rising costs for coffee beans could force the shop to consider increasing drink prices.
Southlinks unveils retail strip, driving range ahead of 2027 lot turnover
Southlinks Estate, an upscale community in South Metro, is expanding its offerings with a new retail strip and modern driving range facility, both scheduled to open in 2027, as developer Height Realty Inc. prepares to…
Trading activity gets much-needed boost with new market-making rules
Trading activity in the Philippine capital market gets a much-needed boost with the issuance by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of the rules establishing a regulatory framework for market-making.
Share prices seen to sync with GCash, BSP moves
The local stock market is expected to take its cue from two catalysts this week: the highly-anticipated market debut of GCash parent Mynt Inc. and the upcoming policy decision of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
‘Make me sweat, make me water’
South African singer Tyla made waves with her Grammy-winning hit “Water,” but El Niño is putting the spotlight on water for a different reason.
Poll: Another hike in BSP rates looms
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is widely expected to raise interest rates again this week as resurgent inflation, a weaker peso and growing risks from food and energy prices strengthen the case for further…
Sports
Eala returns to winning ways, sweeps Parry in Ningbo Open first round
Back on track.
Double trouble: Fajardo, Medecilo head to Japan for rare world title shots
Miel Fajardo and Zyvyr Medecilo will each try to win their first world boxing championships in enemy territory.
Fajardo, Medecillo gun for world titles in same Tokyo card
A rare double world title is up for grabs for the Philippines as as Miel “The Silent Assassin” Fajardo and Zyvyr “Blitz Kid” Medecillo slug it out against Japanese bets for the flyweight and minimumweight belts on…
Gawilan splashes way to Philippines' first gold in Asian Para Games
There was no way Ernie Gawilan would let the Asian Para Games gold medal closest to his heart be taken away from him.
Obiena soars to Eala's rescue
From one champion to another, pole vault ace EJ Obiena is throwing his all-out support to tennister Alex Eala amid criticisms from fellow Filipinos on her current slump in the world pro circuit.
Solar Spikers to ride Belen's hot hands vs Thunderbelles
Bella Belen drives the Capital1 bus anew as it seeks another victory against a taller and dangerous ZUS Coffee Tuesday in the PVL All-Filipino Conference Pulse Series at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Pool legend Parica, snooker champ Manalo to grace PSA Forum
The Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum will have the honor to guest two Filipino former billiards champions during its Tuesday session, October 20, at the Philippine Sports Commission media room.
UST cagers Llemit, Sierba named UAAP week’s best
UST swept its matchups against Far Eastern University and Ateneo de Manila University in both divisions, with Mark Llemit and Karylle Sierba leading the charge for their respective squads.
Immaculada Concepcion volleybelles head straight into UCAL semis with sixth straight win
Immaculada Concepcion College continued its amazing winning run to clinch the first outright semis berth in the women’s division.
Carlos Yulo makes finals of floor exercise, vault at gymnastics worlds
Filipino dynamo Carlos Yulo is back on the prowl for an Artistic Gymnastics World Championship gold medal.
Lee, Bisera, Avaricio lead deep South Pacific field
A deep 27-player field, easily one of the biggest casts in recent years on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour, gears up for a fierce battle for supremacy.
ICTSI South Pacific: Zaragosa banks on title momentum; Lumbo eyes bounce-back
Fresh from ending a year-long title drought, Rupert Zaragosa hopes to ride his newfound momentum to another victory, while Jeffren Lumbo seeks redemption from a string of agonizing near-misses.
Gems, Voyagers in KO tiff
The Meycauayan Marilao Gems and the Pasay Voyagers will battle for the last semifinal slot in the North Division of the SportsPlus MPBL 2026 Season at 6 p.m. today at the Bulacan Capitol Gym in Malolos.
Two for the road
Filipino fighters Miel Fajardo and Zyvyr Medecilo are out to make history in bidding to become world boxing champions on the same card at the Ebara Wave Arena Ota in Tokyo on Nov. 26. Odds are stacked against the…
Eala seeks to arrest skid vs Parry
Redemption begins for Alex Eala after a series of setbacks, clashing with French ace Diane Parry for the first time ever in Round 1 of the WTA500 Ningbo Open in China today.
Lady Blazers advance
College of Saint Benilde wasted no time in dispatching Mapua University, 25-21, 25-14, 25-20, to punch the last ticket to the 2026 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Unity Cup playoffs yesterday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
Returning Ramos spices up ICTSI South Pacific field
One international breakthrough has given Sean Ramos renewed belief – and the confidence that he can turn his resurgence into another title run on the Philippine Golf Tour.
Pinoy bets press bid for Asian Para glory
Here comes the brigade.
Bulldogs trip Tams, tie Maroons in the lead
National University forged a joint lead with University of the Philippines after a gritty 69-65 win over Far Eastern University in a battle of emerging contenders to close the first round of UAAP Season 89 men’s…
Fiberxers steal OT thriller
Converge pretty much squeezed every bit of juice out of its elims-capping duel with reigning champion TNT.
Entertainment
Shuvee Etrata clarifies exchange between Gerald Anderson, Anthony Constantino’s dad
The actress says it was a moment that took place during an intense basketball game.
Will Ashley calls Mika Salamanca his ‘safe space’
Will Ashley described Mika Salamanca as his “safe space” as he opened up about the status of their relationship and recalled how he initially asked for a chance to prove his intentions to the actress.
Lovelyz member Jeong Yein replaces Ha Young in ‘The Trauma Code’
Jeong Yein will reportedly replace Ha Young following the latter's controversy involving her great-grandfather's history.
Sandara Park says Philippines ‘raised me and changed my life’
K-pop star Sandara Park credited the Philippines for shaping her life, recalling how Filipinos welcomed her before she entered the entertainment industry.
Katseye debuts with hit songs on Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show
Lara, Yoonchae, Megan and Daniela wore pink outfits to go along with the pink segment of the popular lingerie show that made its comeback in 2024.
Ashtine Olviga, David Licauco promise onscreen chemistry in ‘Fight for My Way’ adaptation
Coming from their respective love teams, Ashtine Olviga and David Licauco assured fans that they would work on building their onscreen chemistry as they take on the lead roles in the upcoming local adaptation of the…
Triple treat signals new chapter for TV5
It was a triple celebration for TV5 over the Oct. 9 to 11 weekend, with the launch of a new morning show, the premiere of a family rom-com and the signing of a landmark co-production agreement with ABS-CBN.
Lifestyle
Kenny Rogers Roasters brings rich flavor and better nutrition together in New Garlic Parmesan Roast
This holiday season, Kenny Rogers Roasters is introducing a more satisfying way to enjoy a familiar favorite with the launch of its new Garlic Parmesan Roast.
Filipino street dance team wins gold in UK world finals
A Filipino street dance team made history after becoming the first Filipino team to win the 18-and-Under Advanced Category at the UDO World Finals in Blackpool, United Kingdom.
Fuego Costa Pacifica sets the mood for a 'Spooktacular' October with Halloween experience
Guests can look forward to a carefully curated Halloween setup, delicious food, and an atmosphere filled with just the right amount of mystery and excitement.
Kalim-aw Kamote: Philippines' answer to Japanese sweet potato
Grown in Bukidnon in Mindanao, it is a rare indigenous sweet potato that has a brilliant orange flesh, especially after cooking, and is loaded with beta-carotene.
Promoting good sleep by investing in a quality mattress with Tempur
According to Tempur, “peak performance begins with quality recovery.”
PH represent: Catriona Gray, Christina Nadin spotted at Victoria’s Secret show
Model Christina Nadin is the second Filipina to strut the runway of Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.
Learn to make Thai Beef Salad with Chef Gene Gonzalez
It’s a Thai dish that Filipinos would appreciate because the flavor profile does not run too far off what the Filipino palate prefers.
Barbara Palvin, Adriana Lima return with aplomb at Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2026
The Hungarian model gave birth last September and proved that she still owns the runway with two looks at this year’s most anticipated catwalk show.
Meet your immune system: The roommate you need to bribe
With COVID-19 still lurking, seasonal flu making its annual tour, and other respiratory viruses making the rounds, our immune systems are working overtime.
Opinion
Tale of a Pinocchio
Over the weekend, freshly appointed press secretary at the White House Katie Zacharia was sacked after her “fake attorney” and “China toilet” scandals.
Living with evil
A younger friend messaged me last week to ask for some advice.
Private sector’s place in shaping Asean’s future
When the world is unsettled, regional cooperation is a source of resilience.
Balde, drum, container, bisikleta at paa
Back in the early 1990’s I found myself building a four-bedroom bed & breakfast in a town called Busuanga, Northern Palawan.
Pila balde
To be fair to President Marcos, he’s not the first person to suggest collecting rainfall in buckets or balde.
EDITORIAL — Small-minded
Last week, Vicente Sotto III turned over the office of the Senate president to his successor Sherwin Gatchalian, with nearly everything intact.
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