Top stories
China blames ‘self-serving’ PH politician for scaled-back ASEAN defense presence
China said on Thursday, October 29, it sent only its Manila-based defense attaché to a top regional defense meeting in Cebu because a “self-serving” Philippine politician had abused the country’s chairmanship to block…
PNP appeals to Bato to 'end manhunt with dignity'
The Philippine National Police called for Sen. Bato dela Rosa's surrender ahead of the week-long deadline.
JBC submits shortlist for chief justice, SC associate justice posts
The Judicial and Bar Council said five Supreme Court justices were shortlisted for the chief justice position, while 11 individuals were shortlisted for the associate justice position.
SC seeks Senate, House comments before acting on impeachment vote threshold plea
The High Court instead has ordered the Senate and the House of Representatives to answer their petition first, according to an en banc resolution dated October 14.
WATCH: Hegseth calls for ‘Peace Through Strength’ in the Pacific
Hegseth’s message to ASEAN: train together, plan together, and stay strong enough to keep conflict at bay.
Philippines, India pledge deeper defense ties
The Philippines and India pledged on Wednesday to deepen defense cooperation, with Manila moving to post a liaison officer at an Indian Navy-run maritime information center.
Palace urges Congress not to cut Marcos projects in 2027 budget
The Palace said previous cuts redirected funds to unprogrammed appropriations.
US to boost security aid for AFP modernization
The additional security cooperation funds are meant to accelerate the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and enhance interoperability "along the First Island Chain," the readout said.
Bato says P50-million bounty puts life at risk, asks Supreme Court to block arrest
Sen. Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa has asked the Supreme Court anew to stop his arrest, saying the P50-million bounty for his capture and his designation as "armed and dangerous" put his life in "serious danger."
Hegseth pushes US-ASEAN defense framework as China scales back at talks
As China scales back is presence at talks, Pentagon chief Hegseth lays out a defense pitch .
‘Can’t return home for Undas? Hear mass, pray’
Filipinos unable to return to their provinces on All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days due to high transportation costs can remember the departed by hearing mass and offering prayers, Manila Cathedral vice rector Fr. Vicente…
Broken CCTVs at NAIA flagged
Several closed-circuit television cameras at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport are broken, the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) admitted yesterday.
Wage hikes, livelihood support, health care access pushed
As rising prices, inadequate wages, unemployment and concerns over government accountability continue to weigh heavily on Filipinos, Sen. Bong Go pushed for legislative measures and programs aimed at improving workers’…
Hegseth to ASEAN: Deliver peace through strength
United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke before his counterparts in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in Cebu City yesterday, where he reaffirmed the Trump administration’s vision for a prosperous and…
Chinese ships monitored near Panatag Shoal
Chinese naval and coast guard vessels and a research ship were spotted near Bajo de Masinloc off Zambales while the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources was distributing fuel to Filipino fishermen in the area, the…
US, Japan seen as Philippines’ vital partners
majority of Filipinos consider the United States and Japan as the Philippines’ most important partners for economic security, a recent survey conducted by Pulse Asia showed.
Digital apps with violent history must prove safety – Angara
Applications with a history of being used for violence should prove their social media platforms are safe for children, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said, amid proposals to ban minors’ access to “high risk digital…
Bernardo: Jinggoy got P573 million in kickbacks in 4 tranches
Former public works undersecretary and state witness Roberto Bernardo testified yesterday before the Sandiganbayan that detained Sen. Jinggoy Estrada received P573 million in kickbacks, delivered in four tranches, from…
DBM: NCA utilization rate at 96.6%
Government agencies utilized 96.6 percent of their notices of cash allocation (NCA) as of end-September, while the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) had the largest amount of unused NCAs at P59.19 billion.
PNP launches hotlines for tipsters on Bato
The Philippine National Police has opened five 24/7 hotlines and guaranteed confidentiality for tipsters who can provide any information on the whereabouts of wanted Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa
Nation
BARMM parliament opening raises security concerns
All is set for the inaugural session of the 80-seat parliament of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao on Friday, October 30, in BARMM's capitol here, now guarded by no fewer than a thousand policemen and…
Drug den shut down, 5 shabu traffickers arrested in Mindanao
Agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency arrested five shabu peddlers, four of them together operating a drug den, in separate entrapment operations in this city and in Libungan town in Cotabato province on…
2 soldiers arrested after shooting motorist in Cotabato
Two soldiers landed in jail after one of them had shot and wounded a motorcycle-riding civilian in a gun attack before dawn Thursday, October 29, in Barangay South Manuangan in Pigcawayan town in Cotabato province.
ASEAN Summit in Metro Manila: Road closures, flight changes
What commuters and travelers need to know for ASEAN Summit
NTC regional offices mobilized for Undas public assistance ops
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) on Thursday directed the mobilization of all its regional offices nationwide to coordinate with relevant government agencies and key private sector stakeholders in…
Stricter validation ordered for multiple SIMs under one user
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is directing mobile network operators (MNOs) to intensify its post validation of SIMs registered in unusually large numbers under a single individual.
New NLEX C5 Northlink section toll-free until year-end
Marcos announces free passage on the newly opened NLEX C5 Northlink section through 2026.
14 hospitalized after eating tuba-tuba fruit
Thirteen minors and an adult were hospitalized after eating the fruit of a tuba-tuba plant in Koronadal, South Cotabato on Monday.
Quake aftershock jolts Davao, Sarangani
An aftershock of powerful earthquakes that struck Davao Occidental and Sarangani four months ago jolted the two provinces yesterday morning, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.
More cloud seeding needed as El Niño threatens Negros farms
Amid threats posed by the dry spell, the Department of Agriculture (DA) is looking at conducting at least three more cloud seeding operations in Negros Occidental to help farmers cope with the effects of a super El Niño.
6 shortlisted for Luzon deputy ombudsman post
The Judicial and Bar Council has recommended to President Marcos six candidates for the post of deputy ombudsman for Luzon.
Vessels inspected ahead of Undas travel surge
With the expected surge of sea travelers who will observe All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day in the provinces, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) inspected vessels at the port of Batangas on Tuesday to ensure the…
Teacher forces students to drink soda with saliva
A public elementary school teacher in Mapandan, Pangasinan is under investigation for allegedly forcing two students to drink soda laced with saliva of their classmates.
Lopez reshuffles DPWH officials
Newly appointed Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Giovanni Lopez has initiated a revamp of the DPWH’s executive leadership, placing key regional and operations posts under new officers-in-charge.
Bus operators warned over dilapidated amenities
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon yesterday warned bus operators over dilapidated amenities ahead of the Undas break.
Marcos Jr.: Fast-track release of qualified inmates
President Marcos yesterday emphasized the need to avoid delays in processing the release of qualified inmates, saying those who faced accountability deserve a chance to start anew.
Aplasca files reply to direct assault rap
Former Senate sergeant-at-arms Mao Aplasca has filed his counter-affidavit on the direct assault complaint filed against him over the May 13 Senate shooting.
Regions
Garcia meted 6-month suspension over derby
Former Cebu City mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia was meted six months suspension after the Office of the Ombudsman for the Visayas found him administratively liable for conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service…
Simple neglect of duty: Ombudsman finds Archival guilty
The Office of the Ombudsman for the Visayas has found Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival guilty of simple neglect of duty and imposed a fine equivalent to one month’s basic salary for allowing the Colon Street Night Market…
US-ASEAN defense framework pushed
United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has proposed a US-ASEAN framework for defense cooperation to guide security partnerships between Washington and Southeast Asian nations in the coming years.
Absolute visceral revulsion
After reading some of my stinging Off Tangent columns against China and Ambassador Jing Quan, a friend called me up with an advice for me to tone down my articles.
“The Philippines will not be intimidated: Uphold the Arbitral Award”
For the information of our Filipino people, here is the public statement of Atin Ito Coalition, a civilian-led initiative that advocates for the Philippines' sovereignty claims in the West Philippine Sea:
The High Court teaches us on budgeting
Mr. Justice Maario Victor F. Leonen, senior associate justice and leading candidate to replace Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, wrote the landmark en banc decision declaring certain provisions of the 2024, 2025 and…
Sabotahe sa kuryente
Tan-awa ra gud ang binuang sa mga kompaniya sa kuryente:
EDITORIAL — Reading slump
Earlier this month we wrote an editorial about how the latest Program for International Student Assessment tests showed that 15-year-old Filipino students of every background achieved better reading scores in the 2025…
Business
Business groups urge Congress to scrap P180-billion infra insertions
Almost 30 business organizations called on Congress to remove congressional additions amounting to almost P180 billion from the proposed 2027 national budget.
UE honors SC Justice Zalameda for distinguished career in public service
Supreme Court Associate Justice Rodil Zalameda was conferred an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the University of the East (UE) in recognition of his distinguished career in public service and his commitment to the…
Palawan Group and AltPayNet form strategic fintech partnership
The collaboration also expands Palawan Group's growing ecosystem of financial services by providing customers with more convenient ways to receive remittances through both its nationwide branch network and digital…
Housing developers' government tie-up seen as 'ray of light' for real estate sector
Property developers’ growing participation in government-backed housing programs is offering a potential avenue for reviving housing sales and expanding affordable homeownership.
Building beyond the transaction: How Skyro’s everyday ecosystem supports merchant growth
Skyro, a digital-first fintech company, is looking to explore new opportunities for merchant partners.
‘Higher corn MAV to lower feed costs’
The government’s move to raise the minimum access volume for corn is expected to lower costs for animal feeds, according to the Department of Agriculture.
China Bank Savings renews commitment to supporting educators
The thrift banking arm of China Banking Corp. has committed to deepen its partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) in recognizing teachers who help shape the country’s future.
JTI gaining headway in heated tobacco race
Tobacco manufacturing giant JTI is lighting up the battle for heated tobacco products as it further anticipates a rapid shift from traditional sticks among consumers worldwide.
Eligible SSS members get up to P8,000 uplift aid
The Social Security System is set to release up to P8,000 in financial assistance to qualified members covered by the expanded United Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food and Transport aid program tomorrow.
Meralco on track to record P56.6 billion core profit
Manila Electric Co. is looking to post a record consolidated core earnings of P56.6 billion this year.
Indonesia to honor coal export deals with Philippines
Indonesia has assured the Philippines that it will honor long-standing coal supply contracts despite its move to centralize exports of key commodities to prioritize domestic demand, the Department of Energy said.
Cyprus sees higher economic engagement with EU-Phl FTA
Cyprus sees considerable potential for increased economic engagement with the Philippines once a free trade agreemen with the European Union takes effect.
El Niño and pumped hydro storage system
After a prolonged La Niña from 2020 to 2025, we are back to El Niño phase this year until at least 2027. The current one is called a “Super El Nino” with temperature anomaly or deviation from the mean of 2.2 Celsius…
Ayala sets P20 billion tender offer for Mitsubishi deal
The country’s oldest conglomerate is proceeding with a tender offer to acquire nearly P20 billion worth of shares to make way for larger investments from Japanese multinational Mitsubishi Corp.
Share swap opens door for re-IPO of MGENR
MGEN Renewables Inc. (MGENR) is entering into a P4.98-billion share swap with the Meralco Group’s renewable energy arm, laying the groundwork for a potential re-initial public offering (IPO) next year.
Investing in Philippines, one project and one churro at a time
Whenever I encounter a piece of Spanish culture in my hometown here in Manila – whether it may be through architecture, language, family traditions or even food, I am reminded that the relationship between the…
Shares retreat on peso, inflation woes
The local stock market retreated yesterday due to expectations that the worst is yet to be over for the peso’s decline, triggering economic, inflationary and monetary concerns.
Financial system resources hit record P38.6 trillion in August
The total resources of the Philippine financial system climbed to a record P38.56 trillion in August as banks continued to expand their balance sheets, data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed.
BIR to expand tax abatement program to small taxpayers
The Bureau of Internal Revenue is looking at increasing the gross sales threshold of its one-time tax abatement program to benefit more small taxpayers.
‘Philippines to be offshore wind powerhouse in Southeast Asia’
The Philippines is not only pursuing its first kilowatt-hours of offshore wind but also positioning itself as a regional leader in advancing the technology across Southeast Asia.
‘Peso within reach of 65 to $1 level’
The peso could weaken further toward 65 per dollar as persistent external pressures collide with weak domestic growth and elevated inflation, with former central bank governor Jose Cuisia Jr. saying the level is now…
Sports
Pinoy golfers waver in Asia Pacific opener
Hope quickly gave way to frustration for the Philippine contingent as a promising start to the Asia Pacific Golf Championship unraveled into a difficult opening-day campaign.
Davison, High Speed Hitters pummel Thunderbelles
Savi Davison survived the tall blockers of ZUS Coffee as PLDT hammered out a 25-20, 25-18, 25-16 victory.
Grassroots combat sports development gain key backing
The road to becoming a champion begins with the right training, proper guidance and an opportunity to compete.
Dumdumaya tops Filipino bets with tough 73 in Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship opener
Filipino Jaden Dumdumaya endured a baptism of fire in his Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship debut, shooting a 2-over 73 for tied 29th position under blustery conditions.
Constantino finds second wind to top LPGT finale at Apo
When the final round demanded one last fight, Harmie Constantino found a fresh reserve of resolve — and turned a potentially wild, down-to-the-wire finish into a commanding two-shot triumph.
Eala eye payback vs Shnaider in Toray Pan Pacific quarters clash
Vengeance is the name of the game as Alex Eala smashes for her maiden Final Four stint in the Asian swing against Ningbo tormentor Diana Shnaider of Russia in the WTA500 Toray Pan Pacific Open.
Shin pulls away with 7-shot lead in ICTSI Apo Golf Classic
Micah Shin turned a wobbly start into a dazzling display of power and precision, coming away with a 67 to seize firm control of the ICTSI Apo Golf Classic.
World title hopeful Carl Jammes Martin eyes victory vs Picasso in Canelo-Mbili undercard
Undefeated Filipino boxer Carl Jammes “Wonder Boy” Martin will represent the Philippines in the “Mexico vs. The World” boxing event on Saturday, October 31, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
San Juan edges Caloocan in overtime, meets Abra in MPBL North Finals
San Juan bested Caloocan Batang Kankaloo, 82-78, in overtime to advance into the North Division Finals against Abra.
Housing developers' government tie-up seen as 'ray of light' for real estate sector
Property developers’ growing participation in government-backed housing programs is offering a potential avenue for reviving housing sales and expanding affordable homeownership.
Blue Eagles learning to play, win together
Usually, a varsity team learns a lot during the preseason, is put to test in the first round because the matches do count in the big tournament, and the adjustments are made in the second round.
Sun Life's first bike & run event slated Nov. 8
Sun Life is bringing cyclists, runners, young athletes and families together for the inaugural Sun Life Bike & Run on November 8 at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite.
Dumdumaya, 3 other Pinoys ready to rise to AAC challenge at Te Arai
Armed with confidence, contrasting strengths, and a shared hunger to make their mark, four Filipino golfers brace for a stern test against the Asia-Pacific’s elite as the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC) blasts…
Kai’s status in doubt
It’s not certain if Kai Sotto will suit up for Gilas in the fifth FIBA World Cup Asia qualifying window in Seremban, Malaysia but coach Tim Cone is hopeful the 7-3 center is able to play against Syria on Nov. 27 and…
Coleman joins Ajido as Philippines flag-bearers
The Philippines will have not just one, but two flag-bearers – Jamesray Mishael Ajido and fellow swimmer Riannah Chantelle Coleman – during the parade of athletes in the Opening Ceremony of the Fourth Youth Olympic…
Shin pulls away; Avaricio, Kim share Rd 2 lead
Micah Shin shrugged off a shaky backside start with a timely birdie-par-eagle finish before keeping his momentum at the Apo Golf and Country Club’s frontside to card a 68 and tighten his grip on the ICTSI Apo Golf…
Eala fights back from a set down
Alex Eala displayed fortitude and resilience in hacking out a 4-6, 6-2, 6-0 comeback win against Talia Gibson of Australia to barge into the WTA500 Toray Pan Pacific Open quarterfinals yesterday at the Ariake Tennis…
Ramos snares bronze in weightlifting world joust
Rose Jean Ramos took the first significant step towards earning a ticket to the 2028 LA Olympics in picking up a bronze medal in the IWF World Championships at the Ningbo Olympic Center in China last Tuesday.
Lady Tamaraws boost SSL drive
Far Eastern University drew closer to securing a twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals after an emphatic sweep of College of Saint Benilde, 25-14, 25-9, 25-17, for a second straight Round of 8 win in the 2026…
RHJ, Tropa close in on semis
It’s the playoffs and this is where TNT import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson thrives.
Bahay, Alas lead Eagles to repeat win over Bulldogs
Ateneo spoiled National U’s bid for a joint lead, scoring a 69-65 repeat victory to bolster its own Final Four drive in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball yesterday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Entertainment
Alice Dixson admits she was often late to film shoots as a teen
Actress Alice Dixson admitted that she did not take acting seriously when she entered showbiz as a teenager, recalling how her frequent tardiness to film shoots affected her working relationships, including with fellow…
Twice member Nayeon to grace tea shop's PH flagship opening
Nayeon is returning to the Philippines and make things pop once more.
First 100 vivo V80 pre-orders get access to Enhypen event
ENHYPEN Jungwon, Jake and Sunghoon are among the newest vivo Friends. The November event brings the smartphone brand’s partnership with the three members of ENHYPEN to Filipino fans through an exclusive in-person…
'Gusto ko lang umarte': Maris Racal on a high after 'Sunshine' accolades
Maris Racal reflected on the many accolades she has been getting in an exclusive interview with Philstar.com.
Kris Aquino reveals qualities she wants in Bimby's future wife
Kris Aquino has opened up about her hopes for the future wife of her youngest son, Bimby, saying she prays that he will end up with someone beautiful, intelligent and kind.
Sophia Laforteza expected to join PH stops of Katseye's 'Wildworld' tour
Katseye is coming back to the Philippines, and Sophia will very likely be there too!
FAMAS clarifies Maricel Soriano, Maris Racal awards
FAMAS issued a statement explaining how they recognized the achievements for both actresses.
Ruffa Gutierrez says she remains friends with Herbert Bautista after breakup
Actress and former beauty queen Ruffa Gutierrez said she remains friends with ex-boyfriend Herbert Bautista despite their breakup last year.
'We deserve honest public servants': Kris Aquino open to DOH appointment
Queen of All Media Kris Aquino said she would be open to being appointed to the Department of Health (DOH) if given the opportunity, provided her health improves.
Spanish actors praise Romnick, Ruru in ‘Los Salvajes Bravos’
Spanish actor Andreas Muñoz described an almost effortless working relationship with Filipino actors Romnick Sarmenta and Ruru Madrid in the upcoming Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry “Los Salvajes Bravos.”
ALV Pageant Circle queens share winning tips with successors
The culmination of every pageant journey is the representation of a delegate on finals night.
VXON thrilled to be first featured artist in ‘P-pop: Beyond the Stage’
The members of P-pop boy group VXON were thrilled to be the first artists featured in “P-pop: Beyond the Stage,” a new experience that blends cinema, live performances and fan interaction into one event.
Alden-Gaza issue: Enragement is engagement
The Alden Richards-Xian Gaza brouhaha has turned into a trial by social media
Lifestyle
LIST: 9 restaurants retain Michelin Stars for 2027, joined by one-star newcomer Flow
All nine restaurants that were honored with stars at the Philippine debut of the Michelin Guide last year retained their honors, and they were joined by a newcomer from Makati.
LIST: 31 Michelin Bib Gourmand 2027 picks include 10 debutantes
There are fresh new additions to the Bib Gourmand restaurants in the country, including those located in Cebu, Pampanga, Cavite, and Tagaytay
LIST: 86 2027 Michelin-selected PH restaurants, including 18 debutants
There are also fresh additions from new locations, including Liyab and Tadhana, at the Michelin Guide Philippines 2027 unveiling on Thursday, October 29.
4 Filipino chefs receive Michelin Special Awards
A new batch of Filipino chefs received special awards from the Michelin Guide ahead of restaurants selected to be honored for 2027.
Marcos attends Michelin Guide 2027 ceremony
Marcos is the first sitting head of state in history to attend a Michelin Guide restaurant unveiling.
Asian Hospital brings community together for first-ever Bayanihan Run 2026
Asian Hospital and Medical Center, together with Asian Hospital Charities, Inc. (AHCI) and Asian Learning Institute hold its first-ever Bayanihan Run 2026.
Michael Cacnio turns cabinets into miniature rooms in Rockwell exhibit
The 11-day event showcases the artist’s legacy through a collection of interactive brass works.
REVIEW: vivo V80 Lite 5G is built for the scroll, the stream and more things in between
The vivo V80 Lite 5G's appeal goes beyond its 10,000 mAh battery. It's the combination of endurance, a generous display, a distinctive design and convenient extras that makes it worth considering as an everyday…
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.
Katrina Anne Johnson ready for Miss International 2026 in Tokyo
Katrina Anne Johnson had more than a year to psych herself up for Miss International 2026, which she says is the perfect time to prepare.
Tesoros presents a fashion with a twist
In a fresh take on the traditional catwalk presentation, Tesoros launched its collaboration with PamPinay last September through “Disenyo at Talento,” featuring a “Fashion Through Life” tableau.
Opinion
Relevance
At the 175th anniversary gala dinner of the country’s oldest financial institution, Bank of the Philippine Islands, chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, 69, and president TG Limcaoco, 63, defined what it means to be…
Asean energy policy needs more youth voices
The energy ministers of the 11 ASEAN member-states convened in Manila in early October for the 44th ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting, but the outcome still lacks mentions and concrete institutional follow-through to…
All Saints’ & All Souls’ Days
According to the book “Catechism for Filipino Catholics,” Filipinos have traditionally manifested their deep faith in an afterlife with prayers for our departed loved ones and our devotion to the saints.
When BBM says don’t panic...
The peso’s slide is heart-attack level. But President Marcos said we should not be alarmed.
Collapse
Suddenly, “depreciation” seems too kind a word. The peso is simply collapsing.
EDITORIAL — Early learning crisis
Mass promotions of students and lowering of grading standards are being abolished. The best teachers are being assigned to Grades 1 to 3 in the public school system.
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