Comelec targets 3 million new voters for 2028 elections
The Commission on Elections is aiming to add about three million voters to the rolls for the 2028 national and local elections when registration reopens nationwide on Tuesday, November 10.
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Philstar
Thursday, 5 November · 95 stories
Top stories
The new chief justice: Who is Rodil Zalameda?
This marks the second appointment of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to the Supreme Court and the first to the position of chief justice.
LIST: VP Sara’s witnesses for Nov. 9–13 hearings
Vice President Sara Duterte’s lawyers have submitted a witness lineup for the Senate impeachment proceedings.
Fact check: Viral post falsely tags e-trikes at Marcos’ plant visit as gov't vehicles
Viral post mislabels e-trikes at Marcos’ plant visit as new government vehicles.
Navy probes alleged reservist over posts on San Andres youth riot
The Philippine Navy will look into online posts made by one of its alleged "reservists" on the recent street brawls at Manila’s San Andres district, warning that he could be dishonorably discharged if he is found to…
Marcos appoints Zalameda as chief justice
Zalameda, 63, will replace Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, who will reach compulsory retirement on November 6.
Ex-law dean withdraws as defense witness in Sara Duterte impeachment trial
A former law school dean who was invited by the team of Vice President Sara Duterte has declined to testify for the defense.
8 DPWH personnel suspended over Surigao del Norte projects
The cases involve allegedly incomplete but fully paid projects in Surigao del Norte.
Sara, Leni gap narrows – OCTA
The gap between Vice President Sara Duterte and Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo in a hypothetical presidential matchup in 2028 has narrowed to its closest in the latest OCTA Research group poll.
New chief justice named this week
President Marcos will name this week the next chief justice to succeed Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, who will retire tomorrow.
Rules on absent senators sought
Senate President Pro Tempore Vicente Sotto III has filed a resolution seeking definitive rules to address the absences of senators like Ronald dela Rosa, who has gone into hiding since the International Criminal Court…
PNP: Personal ties won’t affect Bato manhunt
Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa’s past position as Philippine National Police chief has no bearing on efforts to arrest him, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said yesterday.
Witnesses vs Duterte to testify on DDS, killings
Several witnesses that the prosecution intends to present against former president Rodrigo Duterte in his crimes against humanity trial will focus on the killings committed by the so-called Davao death squad and by the…
OSG to SC: Junk Padilla, Go petition
The Senate impeachment court called on the Supreme Court to throw out the petition from two senators who challenged an earlier ruling to lower the voting threshold to convict Vice President Sara Duterte.
Dizon eyes rider cap review
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon is eyeing a review of the cap on riders being enforced by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on motorcycle-taxi service providers, saying the current rule is no…
13 power firms told to explain long plant outages
Regulators have ordered 13 power companies to explain prolonged plant outages blamed for blackouts and high electricity prices in the Visayas and Mindanao.
$123.2 million allocated for El Niño response
Around $123.2 million is allocated for readiness and response amid the “very strong” El Niño that will persist till next year, according to the United Nations Philippines.
Marcos urges stronger protection vs cybersecurity threats
President Marcos is pushing for stronger protection for Filipino consumers, workers, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) against growing cybersecurity threats.
Nation
BARMM, Christian-majority province strengthen peace efforts
The Christian governor of South Cotabato province in Region 12 and the chief minister of the Bangsamoro region met on Wednesday, November 4, and agreed to expand their cooperation on activities essential to sustaining…
Bomb threat hits Laguna university
A teacher was accused of threatening to bomb the Philippine Women’s University in Sta. Cruz, Laguna on Tuesday.
In-fa intensifies into typhoon while outside PAR
Tropical cyclone In-fa has intensified into a typhoon while moving outside the Philippine area of responsibility, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.
8 Philippines scops owls rescued in Baguio
Eight Philippine scops owls including four juveniles were rescued in separate areas in this city during the first half of the year.
2 Cavite shootout fatalities were former cops – PNP
Two of five robbery suspects killed in an alleged shootout with police officers in Bacoor, Cavite on Tuesday were former policemen, according to the Philippine National Police.
8 DPWH execs suspended over Surigao flood projects
The Office of the Ombudsman has suspended seven engineers and an accountant of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in connection with questionable flood control projects in Surigao del Norte. In a…
Campaign vs scam hubs launched
The National Capital Region Police Office has launched a campaign to dismantle scam hubs in Metro Manila by targeting not only their operators, but also the financiers, recruiters, property owners and financial networks…
Free rides rolled out for ASEAN Summit
The Department of Tourism will be offering free modern jeepney rides from Nov. 5 to 14 to promote the ASEAN Summit, DOT Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay announced yesterday.
P1.36 billion shabu from Vietnam seized
Around 200 kilos of methamphetamine hydrochloride valued at P1.36 billion were intercepted at the Manila port, officials announced yesterday.
Dizon wants MMDA’s Go in DOTr
Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon is recruiting Gabriel Go of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to lead the DOTr’s road transport and infrastructure sector.
Regions
Demand for Filipino seafarers prompts Marino Expo
The growing international demand for Filipino seafarers is prompting organizers of the Marino World Manning Expo & Conference 2026 to expand the event’s exhibition capacity, moving it to a larger venue to accommodate…
Experts: Philippines drive to eliminate cervical cancer hinges on LGU implementation
The Philippines’ ambition to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem will depend increasingly on the ability of local governments to turn national prevention targets into sustained vaccination, screening…
Intel funds audit sought
The Cebu City Council is seeking answers from the Commission on Audit on P50 million in confidential and intelligence funds released under the administration of former mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, including a P10-million…
Pariahs
Naturalization of foreign athletes is now the winning sports currency of some countries.
Fist of Fury XIII to feature four championship fights
Four championship fights will highlight the “Fist of Fury XIII” fight card of Chao Sy International Promotions on November 14 at Fuente Osmeña Circle in Cebu City.
The difference between Boying and Jonvic Remulla
The Remullas of Cavite delivered huge chunks of votes in 2022 for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his then vice presidential running mate, Sara Z. Duterte.
2 days plus 1: Sovereignty and spectacle in the Senate
It was on September 16, 1991 (or some 35 years ago) when the Philippine Senate made a historic stand by voting 12–11 to reject the RP-US Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Peace, effectively ending nearly a century…
“The blind leading the lost: A nation betrayed”
“He who accepts evil without protesting against it is really cooperating with it." – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Kakak ni BBM
Sa sinigaay sa mata tali sa administrasyon ni Presidente Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ug sa mga grupo sa mga batan-on nga nibisto sa kapin sa trilyon ka pesos nga pork barrel sa 2027 budget, ang mga politiko maoy unang nipilok:
EDITORIAL — The Blue Wave
As of this writing yesterday the votes for the U.S. midterm polls hadn’t been completely counted, but the partial results led all the major news sources to report that the Democrats will grab majority of Congress and…
Business
Ayala Land builds resilience as recurring income gains ground
Ayala Land Inc. is strengthening its recurring-income businesses as a growing source of stability amid economic headwinds and challenges in the property sector, with leasing and hospitality revenues rising 8% to P37.8…
Malampaya Phase 4 achieves first gas delivery
Phase 4 of the Malampaya Project reached its first gas milestone, marking the official connection of two new wells near Palawan to the Luzon grid.
Fuel, transport costs push inflation to 7.8% in October 2026
The PSA reported that headline inflation accelerated to 7.8% in October, marking the highest figure since February 2023, when it reached 8.6%.
Unilab leads Philippines firms in TIME Asia-Pacific’s Best Employers
Pharmaceutical company and health care provider United Laboratories topped the list of Filipino companies that were included in TIME magazine’s inaugural ranking of employers that create outstanding workplaces across…
ASEAN Summit and international trade
The ASEAN Summit and Related Summit meetings of heads of state, presidents and prime ministers of some 20 countries, is fast approaching in two weeks to be held at the PICC in Manila.
Petron profit slides to P5.4 billion in 9 months
Oil giant Petron Corp. remained profitable despite persistent market headwinds, but its earnings nearly halved to P5.4 billion from January to September.
PEZA bullish on record-high P320 billion investment approvals
After beating its 2026 target, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority is now looking to close the year with all-time high investment approvals of up to P320 billion.
PAL swings to net loss in 9 months
Philippine Airlines swung to a net loss in the first nine months as the flag carrier recorded a $339.4-million increase in fuel expense as a result of the conflict in the Middle East.
Literacy, the antidote to noise and fakes
Last week, the world marked UNESCO’s Global Media and Information Literacy Week.
Shares bounce back ahead of inflation release
The local stock market bounced back after dropping two straight sessions as investors hunted for bargain stocks.
Think tank: BSP rate hikes not meant to defend peso
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas should not be judged by the peso’s immediate reaction to its latest interest rate hike, as monetary tightening is primarily intended to contain inflation rather than defend a particular…
What NGCP loses in failed Maharlika deal
The collapse of what was billed as the sovereign wealth fund’s maiden investment leaves the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) missing out on strategic opportunities the deal could have unlocked, according to…
‘Return to 6% growth a struggle for Philippine economy’
“A return toward the six-percent level would depend heavily on restoring confidence and generating a stronger pickup in investment.”
World
Filipino teens among least physically active globally — WHO study
Around 40% of Filipino adolescents reported no day with at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in a week
Sports
Eala edges Valentova to book Hong Kong Open quarters berth
Alex Eala is heading to the quarterfinal round of the Hong Kong Open after grinding out a 6-3, #-# win over Czechia’s Tereza Valentova Thursday evening.
Tabuena, Que, Mondilla lead Philippine charge in Philippine Open
With proven champions, seasoned campaigners and emerging talents ready to take center stage, the Philippines is banking on a formidable homegrown cast to reclaim the spotlight when the Philippine Open blasts off…
'Ultimate pro' Clarkson moves up NBA’s all-time bench scoring list
Surrounded by championship-caliber talent on the New York Knicks, the Filipino-American guard is learning that his greatest contribution doesn't always have to come from scoring.
Foxies repel Thunderbelles for share of third spot
It’s all about pride.
Knicks beginning to grasp Brown's system in routing Bulls
Jalen Brunson needed just 12 minutes to outscore the entire Chicago Bulls team. By halftime, the New York Knicks had matched a franchise record that had stood for nearly four decades.
Ex-champ Que likes countrymen’s chances to rule 108th Philippine Open
With the Philippines' finest out in full force starting next week, Angelo Que believes that the country has a very good chance at wresting the Philippine Open and take Asia's oldest national title back to local soil.
Team Astral pulls off FWC three-peat
The Flyff Universe World Championship (FWC) 2026 came to a close with Team Astral securing their third consecutive title.
Special Olympics Pilipinas receive equipment donations
In a bid to create a more inclusive sporting environment for athletes of all aspects, SportsPlus Foundation donated sports equipment to Special Olympics Pilipinas.
Arejola storms back with 67, vaults to joint 44th in LPGA Q-School
Tomi Arejola turned her LPGA Q-Series Qualifying Stage campaign around in spectacular fashion, firing a scorching five-under 67 at Panther to vault from joint 151st into a share of 44th after 36 holes.
Ticket mechanics bared for pickleball star Anna Leigh Waters' Manila return
Health and wellness brand IAM Worldwide has officially announced the schedule and ticket mechanics for “IAM Experience: Anna Leigh Waters” slated December 9 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
Martin back to 122
Newly-crowned WBC Silver featherweight champion Carl Jammes Martin won’t stay in the 126-pound ranks after all and is sliding down to the superbantamweight class where he’s ranked No. 1 by WBO and in line for a…
Sun Life Bike and Run fest at Vermosa
The Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub in Imus, Cavite, will take center stage as the venue for the inaugural Sun Life Bike and Run on Sunday, bringing together cyclists, runners and families for a day of fitness, fun and…
AFAD champions shooters’ cause
Championing the cause of national shooters bound for competitions abroad will be one of main campaigns as the Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers of the Philippines stages the 32nd Defense and Sporting Arms…
Future taekwondo heroes take mat
Coming off a breakthrough showing at the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, the Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) will stage the 2026 Smart/MVP Sports Foundation JPE National Age Group Taekwondo Championships…
Eala out for revenge vs Czech
A second straight quarterfinal berth is at stake as Alex Eala tries to finally score one on Czech ace Tereza Valentova today in the WTA250 Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open at the Victoria Park Tennis Stadium.
Nxled a new force to reckon with
The Nxled Chameleons have started to evolve into something they have long aspired for – a team ready to claim their breakthrough Premier Volleyball League championship.
Hot Maroons pull away
Red-hot University of the Philippines clipped Adamson, 82-70, to extend its spree to six games and solidify its hold of the pole position in the UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball yesterday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Siargao opens surf world’s eyes
The wait was worth it and hosting a stop in the 12-leg World Surf League pro tour was long overdue for Siargao. Now that the Surigao del Norte island has been introduced as a top-class surfing destination, it could be a…
Entertainment
Japanese star Mackenyu to flex his muscles as Mash in 'Mashle' movie
Japanese actor Mackenyu Arata, who played Roronoa Zoro in Netflix's live-action “One Piece,” is set to portray Mash Burnedead in the live-action film adaptation of “Mashle: Magic and Muscles.”
Ahn Bo Hyun, Claudia Kim headline new Korean historical drama
The upcoming historial epic series spans action, adventure, and romance.
Liam Neeson backs Meryl Streep as next Aslan voice
Liam Neeson has no issue with Meryl Streep voicing Aslan.
Rica Peralejo regrets passing up chances to become US citizen
The actress gets candid about getting out of the country for a better future.
Ruffa Gutierrez explains viral ‘walkout’ moment with Kris Aquino on ‘The Buzz’
Ruffa has clarified about that iconic TV moment.
Michelle Vito says yes to Enzo Pineda's marriage proposal
After six years of being together, the actor has proposed to his longtime actress-girlfriend.
Zeinab Harake's children legally take Bobby Ray Parks' surname
Actress and content creator Zeinab Harake and basketball player Bobby Ray Parks have completed the legal adoption process for her two children, allowing the family to share the same surname.
Garie Concepcion pregnant with 2nd child with Michael Pangilinan
The daughter of actor Gabby Concepcion is expecting her second child with the singer.
BTS eyes tour extension, more projects in 2027
BTS isn't planning to stop anytime soon after performing in the Philippines this March.
New Mr. & Ms. Chinatown Philippines winners celebrate Chinoy roots
Beyond the pomp and pageantry of a female or male beauty competition is what it stands for. It’s the thrust of an annual tilt that one should also appreciate.
Martin Nievera’s ‘Tell All’ on Pops Fernandez
Every time Pops Fernandez tells people that I am her first friend in showbiz, it makes my heart smile.
Bb. Pilipinas 2026 queens open up on pageant journey, love life, online bashing
The Binibining Pilipinas 2026 queens have credited their families and faith in God as the greatest influences throughout their respective pageant journeys.
Lifestyle
Comfort food, home-cooked meals: Artists find second home in Makati resto
Ely Buendia, Audry Dionisio, and Pat Sarabia pushed to include more Filipino homecooked meals given they are what locals would be familiar with.
Bea Windorski teases more Rajo Laurel gowns for Miss Universe 2026
The country's bet to the Puerto Rico finals is all set for now.
'Dune' films return to PH cinemas ahead of final chapter
"Dune" and "Dune: Part Two" will return to select cinemas nationwide, including IMAX, beginning November 11 and will include a sneak peek of the upcoming third entry.
Honor Philippines kicks off 11.11 Early Mega Christmas Sale with P1,111 smartphone deal
Lazada shoppers can grab the HONOR Play 10 for only P1,111 during the limited midnight deal on November 11, plus enjoy up to 24 months of 0% interest installment on the HONOR Magic V6 through participating bank credit…
Family Assist, SOS button: Family-friendly Nokia 2360 Flip lands in PH
Nokia's latest release is a model very much reminiscent of the clamshell phones popular during the 2000s when flip phones were all the rage and dual displays were on the rise.
From Christmas at home to weekends on the go, Platinum Karaoke brings celebrations wherever Filipinos gather
Platinum Karaoke’s Sing It Loud event brings together Sheryn Regis, modern karaoke and party speakers, portable PK Audio and a new jingle built around the Filipino joy of singing together.
A modern Maharaja birthday celebration
Fashion and interior designer Junjun Ablaza, a graduate of the University of the Philippines Diliman, celebrated his birthday in grand style with a modern Maharaja-themed party at the elegant Salon de Ning of The…
Opinion
First Lady Liza Marcos at Rotary Club of Manila
The Rotary Club of Manila is making history today.
Our planet’s biodiversity needs protection: Germany and the Philippines are close partners
At the end of October, the Convention on Biological Diversity brought together delegates from all over the world in Yerevan, Armenia, for the 17th Conference of the Parties to discuss and make decisions on important…
Buying Filipino creates jobs
Last weekend, I wrote a column that the Philippine economy is facing a very serious threat of stagflation.
The Semirara coal war
Sleepless nights, the kind that leave you tossing and turning in bed long after the world has fallen into a deep slumber and well past the witching hour, have become familiar to Energy Secretary Sharon Garin.
Battleground
The budget is the main battleground.
EDITORIAL— Picking the next CJ
Among the most consequential appointments a president can make is that of the chief justice. President Marcos has this chance as Alexander Gesmundo reaches the mandatory retirement age of 70 and bows out as Chief…
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