WATCH: Mayon spews 1.6-km ash plume in another eruption
A Strombolian eruption sent an ash plume 1,600 meters above the crater.
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Philstar
Tuesday, 3 November · 114 stories
Top stories
Could Xi come to Manila? Palace says visit could help settle tension
China has yet to announce who will attend the Nov. 16-18 ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Manila.
PNP debunks viral photo of Dela Rosa at Digos cemetery as 'old'
Police say the Digos cemetery image was taken in 2023.
NCR chief prosecutors endorse Zalameda for chief justice
Zalameda is among five justices shortlisted by the JBC to succeed Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, who retires November 6.
DOLE opens '15/30' hotline for workers' labor concerns
The Department of Labor and Employment launched Hotline 15/30, a new 24/7 hotline for workers' concerns, including those related non-compliance with the agency's El Niño guidelines.
Schools may reopen during LGU class suspensions under new Marcos order
Schools will be allowed to resume in-person classes even while a mayor's or governor's class suspension is still in force, under an executive order signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that updates rules on calling…
JBC announces opening of vacancies for first, second-level court judges
The openings for the first and second court judges are for the National Capital Judicial Region and Regions 1 to 12.
Rain or shine: Mixed weather expected across Philippines
Rains are expected in Metro Manila and parts of Northern Luzon due to two weather systems, the state weather bureau PAGASA said.
Dangerous heat index to hit 16 areas Tuesday — PAGASA
State weather bureau PAGASA warned of dangerous heat conditions in 16 areas across the country on Tuesday, November 3, with the heat index expected to peak at 43 degrees Celsius.
Study: Grads earn more when jobs match academic training
Graduates tend to earn more when their jobs match their academic training, according to a study conducted by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies.
Philippines to host Quad leaders’ summit during ASEAN meet
The leaders of Australia, India, Japan and the United States will meet in Manila during the Nov. 15-18 Association of Southeast Asian Nations conference, the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue’s first leaders’ summit since…
DepEd prioritizes violence-hit campuses in hiring counselor associates
The Department of Education is conducting risk assessments to prioritize large schools and those with a history of violence in the hiring and deployment of school counselor associates amid budget constraints, Education…
Nearly 90% in Yolanda mass grave identified
After more than a decade of having nameless crosses in a lonely field, victims buried in the Yolanda mass grave may finally have their names in their resting places.
Gas prices going up, diesel down today
Gasoline prices are set to rise while diesel and kerosene are headed for a rollback.
SC urges public to be cautious in expressing views
The Supreme Court has urged the public to exercise caution when expressing views on current and social issues and sharing information to avoid facing possible criminal charges.
DOH advises public against relying solely on water filters
The Department of Health has advised the public against relying entirely on water filtration devices to ensure safe drinking water as the country prepares for the effects of the impending super El Niño.
PNP monitors transport hubs
The Philippine National Police is maintaining heightened operational readiness and road safety across major transport hubs and primary highways as millions of Filipinos return to urban centers after All Saints’ and All…
LTFRB fines Move It P555.7 million over excess riders
Ride-hailing app Move It PH has been ordered by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to pay a staggering P555.7-million fine for onboarding motorcycle riders beyond the government-authorized cap.?
Groups call for de-escalation of tension with China
A coalition of 23 business and sectoral groups is calling for de-escalation of tensions between the Philippines and China, citing risks to deep trade and economic ties if strained relations persist.
Nation
BARMM parliament urged to prioritize El Niño impact mitigation
Two officials of a political party with eight representatives in the now duly constituted 80-member Bangsamoro parliament on Tuesday, November 3, urged regional lawmakers to focus on mitigating the effects of El Niño on…
Cebu Catholic school donates textbooks to Moro student
Army officials turned over 2,000 textbooks donated by the Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu in Mandaue City in Cebu, to a school in Talayan, Maguindanao del Sur, on Monday, November 2.
Up to 43°C: Extreme heat disrupts classes in Western Visayas
More than 100 public schools in Western Visayas suspended in-person classes November 3.
P555.75-M fine for motorcycle-taxi app not yet final, says LTFRB
The motorcycle taxi service is disputing a steep fine by transport regulator LTFRB.
Gatchalian eyes BARMM development
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian wished the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao parliament well after its inaugural session on Friday, as he expressed hope it would lead to economic development in the…
P17.8 billion set for 2027 public schools feeding program
The national government is set to spend P17.8 billion next year to provide nutritious meals to undernourished children in public schools and day care centers.
PNP eyes link in Pangasinan, Cebu child exploitation cases
The Philippine National Police ordered the PNP regional intelligence units to intensify cross-jurisdictional monitoring and investigation of potential links among child exploitation cases in Pangasinan and Cebu to…
‘Zero crime in Central Luzon during Undas’
The Philippine National Police in Central Luzon recorded no major incident during the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, which drew thousands of visitors to cemeteries and memorial parks.
Fire guts 130 houses in Zamboanga
An unattended lighted candle triggered a fire that razed 130 houses made of light materials in Barangay Tugbungan here on Sunday, the Bureau of Fire Protection reported.
Chinese fugitive nabbed for fraud
A Chinese fugitive wanted for telecommunications fraud in Beijing has been arrested in Parañaque by the Bureau of Immigration.
BOC: Rolls Royce sold for P23 million
The Bureau of Customs has generated some P23 million from the auction of a seized luxury car, a 2021 Rolls Royce Cullinan.
NCRPO: Millions visit Metro Manila cemeteries
With over 2.5 million Filipinos flocking to cemeteries in Metro Manila, the observance of All Saints’ Day was “generally peaceful,” according to the National Capital Region Police Office.
EDSA busway now open to private cars
To prevent traffic jams as students and workers return today from the provinces following the Undas break, the exclusive EDSA busway will be opened to private vehicles for two weeks, from Cubao, Quezon City to…
Desaparecidos’ kin renew call for justice
Families of desaparecidos or victims of enforced disappearances renewed calls for justice and accountability on All Souls’ Day, displaying photographs of their missing relatives during a gathering in Quezon City.
Regions
Through environmental law: Cebu anchors regional push to protect coastal economies
Cebu is strengthening its position in the regional sustainability agenda as legal institutions across Asia-Pacific move to address environmental risks that threaten coastal livelihoods, natural resources and economic…
ABREP: 9,000 condo cancellations in Metro Manila need closer scrutiny
The reported cancellation of 9,000 condominium purchases in Metro Manila this year needs closer scrutiny, with the real estate brokerage industry calling for greater transparency over the data and the extent to which…
Apl.de.Ap celebrates Filipino heritage in new EP under GMA Music
Global music icon Apl.de.Ap returns to his roots with the release of his new EP under GMA Music entitled PPP. Standing for Power to the Pilipino People, the three-track EP marks a deeply personal chapter in Apl’s…
Carmelle to champion OPM’s global appeal at Eurovision Asia
The Philippines’ first Eurovision Song Contest Asia representative, Carmelle, is all set to make her mark on the global stage as she performs “Sobra-Sobra” to vie for the top honor on November 14 Saturday in Bangkok…
Tokong, Alciso bow out after brave stand in Siargao
Filipino wildcards John Mark “Marama” Tokong and Jayuard Alciso saw their World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour Philippines Pro campaigns come to an end on Monday, November 2, at Cloud 9 in Siargao Island, but…
The "recycling" of Vince Dizon and Francis Tolentino
The return of Secretary Vince Dizon to the Department of Transportation after his failures to implement draconian promises he made for the Department of Public Works and Highways is the best evidence that the BBM…
Being prepared
My friends and I have lately been discussing in our chat group the possibility of a crisis similar to what Cebu experienced after Typhoon Odette in December 2021, or an even worse crisis caused by human actions. In the…
Furry rights
I find it such impeccable timing when the issue of a pet crematorium in Luzon was made known to the public.
Sabotahe sa 4th bridge
Mosamot bang kalangay ang pagtukod sa ikaupat nga taytayan nga magsumpay sa mainland sa Sugbo ug isla sa Mactan? Naduhig ang proyekto sa kahangol sa mga kongresista.
EDITORIAL — Most consequential U.S. midterm elections yet
On November 3, 2026, around 250 million qualified Americans will take to the polls to decide on 435 Congressional district and 33 Senate seats in what looks to be the most consequential midterm polls in modern times.
Business
Need a secure crypto app? GCash offers seamless transfers and quick registration via GCrypto
Filipinos can securely open a trading account, transfer crypto from other wallets or exchanges, and trade up to 55 cryptocurrencies with zero cash-in fees directly in the GCash app.
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.
The Philippines leads Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For™ in Southeast Asia list with 54 companies
The Philippines leads Fortune 100's Best Companies to Work For™ Southeast Asia 2026 list, with 54 Great Place To Work Certified™?companies.
Beyond the classroom: Student leaders take on real-world business challenges
Global Dominion partners with JCFAP to support the professional development and career readiness of future finance leaders
Apple says DepEd ordered 170,000 MacBooks, 'biggest education deal' in company's history
The Department of Education has purchased 170,000 Apple MacBook Neo laptops, in what Apple's chief executive called the company's biggest education deal ever for the Mac.
DepEd procures over 170,000 Macbooks for teachers, staff
The Department of Education has purchased 170,000 Apple MacBook Neo laptops, in what Apple's chief executive called the company's biggest education deal ever for the Mac.
Price Tracker: Oil, fuel monitor for Nov. 3 - 9, 2026
The first week of November sees gasoline prices increasing by P3.5/L and diesel and kerosene prices decreasing by P1/L and P1.9/L, respectively.
Debt payments ease to P1.65 trillion in 9 months
The country’s debt service bill fell by 11.7 percent to P1.65 trillion in the nine-month period ending September from last year’s P1.87 trillion, reflecting the timing of debt payments rather than the easing of the…
KFC Philippines expands solar footprint to 87 locations
KFC Philippines continues to strengthen its commitment to more sustainable restaurant operations, with 87 locations nationwide now equipped with solar panels.
Sunlight Air delays jet acquisition plan
The boutique airline of millennial CEO Ryna Brito-Garcia has deferred its plan to buy a maiden jetliner, as it shifts from expansion stance to survival mode because of cost spikes.
DA taps citizen watchdogs for farm-to-market roads
The Department of Agriculture has partnered with civil society groups to ensure the proper implementation and construction of farm-to-market roads projects throughout the country.
Binance partner reviews impact of $6.3 billion crypto hack
BlockShoals Technologies Inc., the Philippine partner of cryptocurrency exchange Binance, is assessing the possible impact of a $6.3-billion cyberattack on its local regulatory sandbox project as the global platform…
‘Insurance demand slowing as high costs squeeze budget’
Rising cost of living is forcing more Filipinos to put off life insurance purchases, while some business owners are withdrawing money from their existing policies to fund operations, with demand expected to weaken…
Reytech enters ‘condormitel’ development in DLSU Laguna
Reytech Construction was tapped to build the University Pad Residences in De La Salle University Laguna, marking the company’s entry into mid-rise residential development.
ERC wants longer-term power reserve deals
The Energy Regulatory Commission is pushing for longer-term ancillary service procurement agreements to limit the grid operator’s exposure to the Reserve Market.
Phinma keeps optimism despite El Niño, foreign exchange concerns
Phinma Corp., the diversified conglomerate of the Del Rosario Group, is keeping its optimism heading into next year despite concerns over the potential impact of El Niño and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.
Malampaya marks 25 years of Goal Zero safety campaign
The Malampaya Onshore Gas Plant in Tabangao, Batangas City has marked 25 years without a recordable safety incident involving harm to people or a significant process safety incident, underscoring its longstanding…
DOTr readies P767 million upgrade of regional airports
Nearly P767 million in contracts for airport rehabilitation would be awarded by the Department of Transportation this month, with the projects aiming to expand the capacity of regional gateways.
Philippines banks keep profit streak in 9 months
Philippine banks’ combined net income increased by 4.2 percent to P315.47 billion from January to September, as stronger interest earnings were partly offset by foreign exchange losses and higher provisions for…
For young Pinoys, financial planning no longer about wealth building
PhilPlans, the pre-need arm of the Philippines First Insurance Group, has identified a significant shift on how the younger generation views long-term financial planning as no longer just about wealth building, but also…
EastWest earnings drop 24% to P5 billion
East West Banking Corp. saw its net income fall by 24.2 percent to P5 billion in the first nine months of 2026, from P6.6 billion a year ago, as the lender booked higher provisions for potential credit losses amid a…
Over 100 streamers going live on Bloomberry’s new product
An online gaming unit of Enrique Razon Jr.’s Bloomberry Resorts Corp. will add more than 100 streamers this fourth quarter to its new product that combines live betting and interaction.
10,000 Kaizen ideas could make you broke if…
What is the actual, monetary value of your employee suggestions? That question came to me when I read a recent post by my friend Darril Wilburn on LinkedIn.
USDA: Philippines to import more dairy products next year
The country is seen importing more milk products in 2027 due to steadily growing demand, according to the US Department of Agriculture.
DOE ready to defend new mining bid rules in court
The Department of Energy is prepared to stand by its proposed framework for awarding mining and other natural resource contracts should it face legal challenges in court, its top official said.
SEC wants independent directors in firms with government contracts
The Securities and Exchange Commission is preparing to enforce stricter governance on corporations vested with public interest or those with significant government contracts.
Online gaming tax still on DOF’s radar
The Department of Finance is still studying a possible tax on online gaming, a measure first floated by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto to curb unrestricted access to gambling platforms.
Sports
Eala disposes of last-minute replacement Jones to start of Hong Open bid
Facing off against a late replacement? No problem.
Samahang Plaridel Golf Championships back for 10th edition
The Association of Philippine Journalists-Samahang Plaridel returns to the Villamor Golf Club for the third straight year with the staging of the 10th Samahang Plaridel Golf Championships.
Fighting Maroons aim to stay hot vs Falcons
League-leader University of the Philippines tries to extend its hot tear against Adamson in a bid to zero in on a Final Four seat in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball.
Huge win vs Picasso opens doors for Carl Jammes Martin
After his morale-boosting win over David Picasso, the sky is the limit for undefeated fighter Carl Jammes Martin.
Filipino karting prodigy Axel Nocom eyes breakthrough in 'Champions of the Future' final
With less fanfare and greater resolve, 14-year-old Filipino karter Mariano “Axel” Nocom is making a lot of heads turn in the international circuit.
Simmers, Medina crowned ever first WSL Philippines surfing champs
Caitlin Simmers and Gabriel Medina claimed the women's and men's titles, respectively, in the first-ever World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour Philippines Pro at Cloud 9.
Maiden U-19 Asian Sepatakraw Championship to be staged in Philippines
The Philippines will host the inaugural ASTAF U-19 Asian Sepaktakraw Championship 2026 (PSTAI) from November 26-30 at the Rizal Memorial Sports Coliseum and Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
Dinagat builds path from island talent to national colors
On an island long celebrated for its natural beauty and rising economic success, a new vision is taking shape, one that stretches beyond tourism and development and into the national sporting arena.
Philippine football chiefs bats for homegrown booters
The Philippine Under-15 Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT U15) recently concluded its maiden FIFA World Cup & Festival at a respectable 110th place out of 189 countries in the world’s biggest football tournament held…
Pagdanganan seeks redemption as 4 Filipinas launch LPGA Q-Series bid
Bianca Pagdanganan returns to the demanding road toward the LPGA Tour, determined to turn last year's heartbreaking near miss into another opportunity to reclaim her place among the world's elite women's golfers.
Reminiscent of Pacquiao
There were glimpses of Manny Pacquiao in the way Carl Jammes Martin fought Mexico’s David Picasso to win a split 10-round decision in his featherweight debut at the Kingdome Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, last weekend.
Top guns, rising stars clash in Olivarez Open
Eric Olivarez and John Benedict Aguilar launch their respective bids for the crown today, but a deep and competitive field promises to make the opening rounds of the Mayor Edwin Olivarez National Open Tennis…
Family bonding thru fitness in Sun Life event
Sun Life is bonding families, fitness enthusiasts and sports communities together through its Bike and Run on Nov. 8 at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite, promoting an active lifestyle through activities that…
Taller rivals sink Ajido
Jamesray Mishael Ajido had the skills but not the body length and finished fifth in the men’s 100 meters butterfly of swimming in the 4th Youth Olympic Games on Sunday.
Nxled eyes share of lead
Nxled guns for its fourth straight victory and a share of the lead with idle Creamline as the PVL All Filipino Conference Siklab Series resumes today at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, with the Chameleons bracing for a…
Closeout in Dasma?
Is it closing time?
Cone expects all hands on deck
Gilas head coach Tim Cone is optimistic that overseas players will be available, “barring injury,” for the fifth FIBA World Cup Asia qualifying window where the Philippines plays Syria on Nov. 27 and Iran on Nov. 29 in…
New milestone for No. 17 Eala
Alex Eala continues to break new ground not only for the Philippines but also for women’s tennis in all of Southeast Asia.
Tokong, Alciso bow out at Cloud 9
Filipino wildcards John Mark “Marama” Tokong and Jayuard Alciso gave the home crowd something to cheer about but saw their campaigns come to an end in the World Surf League Championship Tour Philippines Pro at Cloud 9…
Entertainment
Mike Hanopol warns against use of Hagibis songs without permission
Under the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines, or Republic Act No. 8293, musical compositions are protected by copyright, and their public performance is subject to applicable licensing and permission…
Cup of Joe's Gian Bernardino admits crush on Maki
Cup of Joe member Gian Bernardino revealed that he used to have a crush on fellow singer Maki during his guest appearance on “Gandang Gabi, Vice.”
Carmelle Collado hopes to make OPM resonate globally at 1st Eurovision Asia
The former "PBB" housemate said her goal is to establish an emotional connection with viewers and show that Filipino music can resonate with listeners across cultures.
Lea Salonga not actively looking for love after split from husband
Broadway star Lea Salonga is not actively seeking a new relationship, saying she is focused on building a fulfilling life rather than finding a romantic partner.
Marian Rivera, Dingdong Dantes reflect on marriage, parenthood in 'PBB' visit
Actress Marian Rivera considers her wedding to husband Dingdong Dantes one of the most memorable days of her life, saying it fulfilled her childhood dream of having a complete family.
Ben Siao, Yna Uy to represent Philippines at Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global in 2027
It was a full-circle moment for seasoned model Ben Siao, who recently clinched the Mr. Chinatown Global Philippines 2026 title, a decade after first joining the separate Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Philippines pageant in 2016.
Ogie Alcasid’s dream musical ‘Kailangan Kita’ with Regine Velasquez set for 2027
After seven years in the making, Ogie Alcasid is finally bringing his dream musical to the stage, featuring songs he has composed and performed throughout his nearly 40-year OPM career.
InnerVoices releases 1st Christmas single
For Christmas 2025, six-man group InnerVoices recorded a video performance of the popular Yuletide classic O Holy Night to greet and thank their followers, including those who regularly catch their shows at music…
MAVX producer makes directorial debut with ‘Buddy’
MAVX Productions president and CEO Erwin “Lucky” Blanco never really planned on becoming a film director.
Lifestyle
Kinilnat: Traditional Ilocano salad
A Filipino salad of parboiled vegetables and savory-salty dressing.
Path to new peaks: Tumi unveils Fall/Winter 2026 collection in refreshed Newport store
At Tumi, performance and luxury are the standard. This season, that standard reaches new heights.
Global Dominion launches Ka-partner SME Awards
Global Dominion recognizes Filipino SMEs through its annual awards program "Ka-partner SME Awards."
Taiwan Excellence connects innovation with Philippine business opportunities at Taiwan Expo 2026
The three-day pavilion showcased Taiwan Excellence-awarded companies and their technologies.
Solmera Beach Park Resort by DMCI Resorts to bring together leisure and events in one beachfront destination
Set on a 7.5-hectare beachfront property in San Juan, Batangas, the upcoming resort will combine recreational amenities, accommodations, dining outlets and event venues, offering guests a complete beachfront experience…
vivo V80 opens pre-orders, offers up to P2,000 discount and more
Designed for a generation that enjoys capturing memorable moments, expressing personal style, and customizing their devices, the smartphone combines ZEISS co-engineered portrait cameras, a distinctive glass design, and…
Foodpanda celebrates top partners, pledges continued growth at CRAVE 2026 finale
Foodpanda Philippines concludes the CRAVE Partner Summit and Awards 2026 in Manila, highlighting the role of local food businesses in driving livelihoods and community growth.
Cancer taught a teacher a hard lesson in caring for herself
When Merci Tobias' experience also altered the way she viewed her own health and future.
BEFAST: How to recognize stroke
Memorize the acronym B.E.F.A.S.T.
Nar Cabico returns to ‘Zsazsa Zaturnnah’ as Ada for musical’s 20th anniversary
Actor and singer Nar Cabico is set to take on the lead role of Ada in the 20th-anniversary production of “Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Parteeeh!,” marking a full-circle moment in his journey with the musical.
Opinion
Bobo na, magnanakaw pa
Bobo na, magnanakaw pa. (“Stupid or incompetent and a thief as well”). I declared during my Bilyonaryo TV appearance Thursday, Oct. 29.
One strait, one tank, one drought
Every Tuesday morning, a rider I will call Jun fills his tank before the sun is up.
The myth of the ‘perfect victim’
In the month leading to International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, which we commemorate on Nov. 25, an allegation of sexual assault at a prestigious university has re-ignited discussion about the…
Big Boy’s hot pitch: A nationwide solar/RE ‘power bank’
Don’t we all love a reliable and handy power bank, especially when our mobile phone is almost running on empty and we don’t have access to electricity just yet or, worse, when an outage suddenly hits?
Symbiosis
After all the country suffered in the wake of the flood control scandal, the congressmen are at it again.
EDITORIAL – Dearly departed pets
As Filipinos remembered their deceased loved ones during Undas, public attention was drawn to a case involving another group of dearly departed: pets.
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