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Wednesday, 08 April 2026

Nation

House solons blast VP Duterte’s SC petition as bid to evade accountability

MANILA -- Lawmakers sharply criticized Vice President Sara Duterte after she elevated her impeachment fight to the Supreme Court, with several House members calling the move a “desperate attempt” to derail proceedings and avoid accountability. Among the most vocal critics was Mamamayang Liberal Rep. Leila de Lima, who questioned Duterte’s decision to seek relief from the high court. “Akala siguro nila yung SC ay ‘Sara’s Court’ na pwede nila laging takbuhan para pagtakpan ang kaduwagan at pagtakas sa pananagutan,” De Lima said in a post. Akbayan Rep. Percival Cendaña echoed the criticism, accusing Duterte of attempting to stall the process out of fear that evidence would surface. “This petition reeks of desperation. At alam natin kapag desperado, talagang gagawin ang lahat para ma-delay, ma-derail ‘yung process. And we hope that the Supreme Court will see that we are fully compliant with not just the constitution, but even with their own ruling,” said Cendaña. “Alam natin na talagang desperado na sila, natatakot na lumabas ang ebidensya, natatakot na lumabas ang katotohanan. Kasi alam ni VP Sara, paglabas ng ebidensya, wala na siyang takas,” he added. Adding to the criticism, ACT Teachers Party-list and Makabayan Bloc member Antonio Tinio dismissed the petition outright. “Kabalbalan ang petisyon ng kampo ni VP Sara,” Tinio said, describing the move as a clear tactic to evade accountability, particularly in relation to confidential funds and unexplained wealth of VP Duterte. Meanwhile, Rep. Terry Ridon of Bicol Saro went further, urging the dismissal of Duterte’s petition outright. He alleged that her legal team included “fraudulent claims,” particularly in arguing that prosecutors are barred from strengthening a case with additional evidence—an assertion he rejected. “No TRO vs Duterte impeachment proceedings. See you on April 14,” Ridon said on X. Despite the petition from Duterte’s group, the Supreme Court declined to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO), allowing the impeachment process to proceed. For House leadership, the decision affirmed institutional balance. Speaker Faustino Dy III welcomed the move, saying it reflects “proper balance” among branches of government. “In the absence of any legal restraint, the House of Representatives will continue to discharge its constitutional mandate,” Dy said, adding that proceedings would move forward in a “fair, orderly, and evidence-based process.” Duterte filed a petition for certiorari and prohibition dated April 1, asking the Supreme Court to issue both a TRO and a final injunction to nullify the impeachment complaints and halt the proceedings of the House Committee on Justice. Her legal team argued that the impeachment process is constitutionally flawed, citing what they described as “fatal defects” in how the complaints were referred and handled. Among the key points raised were alleged overreach by House leadership, possible violation of the one-year bar rule on impeachment, and claims that committee hearings resemble a “trial in disguise,” a role reserved for the Senate. Defense spokesperson Michael Poa maintained that the move was grounded in constitutional principles. “This is about ensuring that the process itself complies with the Constitution. The House has the power to initiate impeachment, but that power is not without limits,” he said. Nevertheless, the solons reiterated that the impeachment process is part of constitutional accountability mechanisms, guided by evidence and the rule of law, even as political tensions continue to mount. 📷 Inday Sara Duterte FB 3 hours ago

Nation

Hontiveros warns farmers’ income may fall below half of minimum wage, renews call for supplemental aid

2 hours ago

Nation

Sara Duterte seeks Supreme Court intervention to halt impeachment proceedings

2 hours ago

Entertainment

Eala advances in Linz Open with strong opening performance

2 hours ago

Provinces

DSWD, nagsimula ng pamamahagi ng ₱5,000 cash aid sa transport sector sa Malolos

2 hours ago

NCR

QC gov’t, naghahanda ng mural festival para sa West Philippine Sea awareness

1 hour ago

NCR

Mandaluyong LGU nagdagdag ng 20 motorsiklo para sa mas mabilis na emergency response

1 hour ago

Provinces

Robredo eyes budget realignment for fuel subsidy in Naga

1 hour ago

NATION

Marcos signs law allowing fuel tax cuts amid rising oil prices

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has signed into law Republic Act No. 12316, granting the executive branch the authority to suspend or reduce excise taxes on fuel when global oil prices surge. Signed on March 25, 2026, the measure allows the President to act once the one-month average price of Dubai crude oil reaches at least $80 per barrel—a benchmark commonly used to track global oil trends affecting the Philippines. The law, endorsed by Senator Pia S. Cayetano, aims to cushion the impact of rising fuel costs on consumers, particularly transport workers and households already grappling with inflation. Under the new policy, any suspension or reduction of excise taxes will be temporary and subject to strict safeguards. These include defined time limits, automatic reversion to previous tax rates once oil prices stabilize, and mandatory reporting to Congress to ensure transparency and accountability in implementation. Lawmakers said the measure provides the government with a “targeted and responsive tool” to address volatile fuel prices without permanently altering the country’s tax structure. The enactment comes as global oil markets remain unpredictable, with price fluctuations driven by geopolitical tensions and supply constraints, raising concerns over their impact on domestic fuel prices and the broader economy. 📷 Presidential Communications Office FB

23 hours ago

Diesel prices may surge to nearly P170/liter

MANILA, Philippines — Diesel prices are expected to rise sharply next week, with projected increases ranging from P18 to P20 per liter, based on initial industry estimates from recent trading data. The adjustment is set to take effect on April 7, 2026. Should the forecast hold, regular diesel prices could exceed P160 per liter, while premium diesel may climb close to or surpass the P170 per liter mark. Gasoline prices are also likely to increase, with estimates pointing to a more modest adjustment of around P3 to P5 per liter. The projections are based on the first four days of trading under the Mean of Platts Singapore, the pricing benchmark used by oil companies for weekly fuel adjustments in the country.

2 days ago

PH secures safe passage for ships and seafarers through Strait of Hormuz

[caption id="attachment_13982" align="alignnone" width="1024"] MANILA – The Philippine government has secured assurances from Iran that Filipino seafarers and Philippine-flagged vessels will be allowed safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, following high-level diplomatic talks amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. The development comes after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed officials to engage Tehran to safeguard the country’s energy supply and protect the welfare of Filipino workers overseas. “Safe, Unhindered Passage” Assured According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the commitment was made during a Maundy Thursday phone call between Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. “During the call, the Iranian Foreign Minister assured the secretary that Iran will allow the safe, unhindered, and expeditious passage through the Strait of Hormuz of Philippine-flagged vessels, energy sources, and all Filipino seafarers,” the DFA said. Lazaro described the discussion as “very productive,” highlighting its importance for both maritime safety and energy security. “Building on recent talks, we reached a positive understanding on the safety of our seafarers and the security of our energy supply. Grateful for the warm spirit of cooperation,” she said in a post on X. No Additional Fees for Passage The DFA also clarified that Philippine vessels will not be charged transit fees, amid earlier reports that Iran might impose new charges on ships crossing the strait. “On question regarding the reported toll fee, there is no toll fee,” DFA spokesperson Analyn Ratonel said. This ensures oil shipments bound for the Philippines will not face additional costs at a time when global fuel prices remain volatile. Oil Imports Crucial for Energy Supply The agreement is seen as critical for the Philippines, which relies heavily on imports from the Middle East. “Given that the Philippines imports the majority of its energy requirements from the Middle East, these assurances from Iran will greatly facilitate the steady delivery of critical oil and fertilizer supplies to the Philippines,” the DFA said. About one-fifth of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz. For the Philippines, which imports around 98% of its crude oil, any disruption could directly impact fuel prices, transport costs, and overall inflation. The assurance also provides relief for thousands of Filipino seafarers working on vessels operating in the Middle East. War and Blockade: Tensions in the Middle East The talks come as tensions remain high following recent military actions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have raised concerns about possible disruptions along key shipping routes. Iran has tightened its control over the strait in response, contributing to uncertainty in global energy markets. President Marcos earlier said the country’s fuel reserves could last until the end of June, but has ordered the government to secure additional supply to build up reserves. The government has also declared a state of national energy emergency to prepare for potential supply disruptions. PH Reaffirms Commitment to Diplomacy Both the Philippines and Iran reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining cooperation and dialogue. According to the DFA, both sides agreed on the importance of “Maintaining excellent relations and achieving lasting peace through continued dialogue and diplomacy.” The Philippines is among several Asian countries that have received similar assurances, as governments seek to protect their economic interests and citizens amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. 📷 DFA FB

5 days ago

Marcos chairs UPLIFT meeting to stabilize food supply, cushion impact of rising oil prices

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday convened a high-level meeting of the UPLIFT (Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport) Committee to address the potential impact of rising global oil prices on the country’s food supply and transport costs. During the meeting, officials outlined measures aimed at keeping food prices stable and ensuring steady supply despite mounting external pressures linked to fuel price volatility. A key component of the government’s response is the mobilization of $10 billion to support the agriculture sector. The funds will be coursed through the Department of Agriculture to provide fuel assistance and essential farm inputs to farmers and fisherfolk. Authorities said the move is intended to sustain production levels and prevent supply disruptions that could lead to higher food prices. In parallel, the government is set to activate P1 billion in transport-related subsidies through the Department of Transportation. The allocation will be used to directly compensate drivers affected by rising fuel costs and to expand free ride programs for commuters. Officials said the twin measures are designed to mitigate the broader economic impact of increasing oil prices, particularly on vulnerable sectors such as food producers and daily commuters. The UPLIFT initiative integrates efforts across key sectors—livelihoods, industry, food, and transport—to ensure a coordinated response to inflationary pressures and safeguard economic stability. 📷 Presidential Communications Office FB

5 days ago

PROVINCES

CIBAC Rep. Villanueva renews call to establish more dialysis centers

BOCAUE, Bulacan — CIBAC Party-list Rep. Bro. Eddie Villanueva has renewed his call for the establishment of dialysis centers in all national, regional, and provincial hospitals as the nation observed World Health Day yesterday (April 7). In a message sent to media, Villanueva, who hails from Bocaue, said he reiterated his call to ensure accessible and free dialysis treatment for indigent patients. The Bulakeño Party-list representative earlier filed House Bill No. 7148, which mandates the Department of Health (DOH), in coordination with local government units and PhilHealth, to expand hospital-based dialysis facilities and guarantee free treatment for indigent patients. Citing data from PhilHealth as of February this year, Villanueva said there are 834 accredited dialysis clinics nationwide, 797 of which are privately operated and only 37 government-owned. He noted that the majority of these, or 521, are concentrated in Mega Manila, showing an imbalance in access to life-saving treatment. The limited availability of dialysis clinics in rural regions remains a major challenge for the country’s healthcare system. Villanueva also pointed out that experts estimate at least 13 million Filipinos are affected by various stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD), further underscoring the urgent need to expand accessible and affordable care. “Health care should heal, not impoverish. When a patient must spend close to—or even more than—a million pesos a year just to survive, that is no longer just a medical concern—it is a moral issue and a test of our commitment to justice and compassion,” Villanueva emphasized. 📷 CIBAC Party-list 1 hour ago

PDLs sa Marilao, natapos ng Senior High School sa programang pang-edukasyon

MARILAO, Bulacan — Nakapagtapos ng Senior High School ang ilang Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) sa Marilao, bilang bahagi ng patuloy na programang pang-edukasyon para sa mga nasa loob ng piitan. Layunin ng inisyatibo na mabigyan ng pangalawang pagkakataon ang mga PDLs sa pamamagitan ng edukasyon, na magsisilbing pundasyon para sa kanilang pagbabagong-buhay at mas maayos na kinabukasan. Binigyang-diin ni Marilao Mayor Jem Sy na patuloy nilang isusulong ang mga programang nagbibigay pag-asa at oportunidad sa mga PDLs, bilang bahagi ng mas malawak na layunin ng rehabilitasyon at reintegrasyon sa lipunan. Hinimok din ang mga nagsipagtapos na gamitin ang edukasyon bilang daan tungo sa bagong simula. 📷 MarileNews FB

20 hours ago

Mga natatanging Balagtaseño, kinilala sa pagbibigay-dangal sa bayan

[caption id="attachment_14017" align="alignnone" width="1024"] BALAGTAS, Bulacan — Kinilala at pinarangalan ang mga natatanging mamamayan ng Balagtas bilang pagkilala sa kanilang mahalagang ambag sa komunidad at patuloy na pagbibigay dangal sa bayan sa iba’t ibang larangan. Kinilala ang mga Balagtaseño na nagsilbing inspirasyon sa komunidad dahil sa kanilang mahahalagang kontribusyon sa iba’t ibang larangan—mula sa serbisyo publiko hanggang sa mga gawaing pangkomunidad. Ayon sa mga lokal na opisyal, ang kanilang mga sakripisyo at pagsusumikap ay sumasalamin sa tunay na diwa ng pagiging lingkod-bayan. Binigyang-diin na ang ganitong pagkilala ay hindi lamang parangal, kundi paalala rin sa bawat mamamayan na ang sama-samang pagkilos at malasakit ay mahalaga sa patuloy na pag-unlad ng bayan. Patuloy namang hinihikayat ang mga residente na tularan ang ipinakitang kahusayan at dedikasyon ng mga pinarangalan, bilang bahagi ng pagpapalakas ng pagkakaisa at pagmamalasakit sa komunidad. 📷 Mayor Andy "Andrews" Santiago FB

1 day ago

4Ps Ugnayan sa Bulacan, naghatid ng serbisyo at suporta sa mga benepisyaryo

BOCAUE, Bulacan — Matagumpay na naisagawa ang 4Ps Ugnayan ng DSWD-SWAD Bulacan noong Marso 27, bilang bahagi ng patuloy na pagpapalakas ng suporta sa mga benepisyaryo ng Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Sa ilalim ng 4Ps Ugnayan, nabigyan ang mga kalahok—kabilang ang mga kasalukuyang benepisyaryo at exiting households—ng access sa mahahalagang impormasyon at serbisyo mula sa iba’t ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan. Layunin nitong gabayan ang mga pamilya tungo sa mas matatag na pamumuhay at ihanda sila sa pag-angat mula sa programa. Nagpahayag naman ng pasasalamat ang mga organizer sa aktibong pakikilahok ng mga benepisyaryo, na anila’y mahalaga sa patuloy na tagumpay ng programa. Sa tulong ng ganitong mga inisyatibo at sa suporta ng lokal na pamahalaan sa pamumuno ni Mayor Jonjon Villanueva, patuloy na pinalalakas ang ugnayan ng mga ahensya at komunidad upang maisulong ang inklusibong kaunlaran sa Bulacan. 📷 Mayor Jonjon JJV Villanueva FB

1 day ago

New CLLEX segment cuts travel time, boosts connectivity in Central Luzon

Travel across key areas in Central Luzon is expected to become significantly faster and more cost-efficient following the opening of a new 4-kilometer segment of the Central Luzon Link Expressway under Contract Package 4. The newly opened stretch completes a vital east-west corridor in the region, reducing travel time from over an hour to approximately 20 minutes, according to government officials. The improved route is seen to ease congestion and enhance mobility for both motorists and transport operators. Motorists can also benefit from toll-free access along this segment until December 2026, further lowering transportation costs. In a statement, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the broader economic impact of the project, noting that smoother traffic flow leads to reduced fuel consumption and operational expenses. He added that the expressway will help streamline the delivery of essential goods, particularly rice from Nueva Ecija, widely regarded as the country’s rice granary. 📷 Presidential Communications Office FB

2 days ago

NCR

Task force ng Caloocan, naglatag ng hakbang para sa pagtitipid ng enerhiya at krudo

CALOOCAN CITY — Nagpulong ang binuong task force ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Caloocan upang talakayin ang mga konkretong hakbang para sa mas episyenteng paggamit ng enerhiya at krudo bilang tugon sa pandaigdigang krisis sa suplay at presyo ng langis. Sa pulong, inisa-isa ang estado ng pamamahagi ng fuel subsidy para sa mga miyembro ng transportation sector, pati na ang pagpapatupad ng mga programang libreng sakay para sa mamamayan at ang mga oportunidad para sa mga Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (TODA). Kabilang sa mga tinalakay na hakbang ang mas mahigpit na pagbabantay sa presyo ng mga bilihin sa mga pamilihan at gasolinahan, pati ang posibleng pagbawi ng business permits at pagsasampa ng kaso laban sa mga kumpanyang mapapatunayang sangkot sa fuel hoarding. Napag-usapan din ang pagsasagawa ng foot patrol ng mga kawani mula sa maliliit na barangay upang palakasin ang monitoring sa komunidad, at ang paglalagay ng solar panels sa mga health center bilang bahagi ng pagtitipid sa enerhiya. Iminungkahi rin ang pagpapalawak ng libreng sakay na pangungunahan ng Public Safety and Traffic Management Department (PSTMD), kabilang ang rumurondang biyahe sa umaga at gabi. Bukod sa mga TODA, plano ring makipag-ugnayan sa mga Public Utility Jeepneys (PUJs) upang mas mapalawak ang saklaw ng serbisyo. Kasama rin sa mga hakbang ang patuloy na pagpapatupad ng “No Aircon Friday” sa mga tanggapan ng lokal na pamahalaan upang mabawasan ang konsumo sa kuryente. Ayon sa mga opisyal, ang mga panukalang ito ay patuloy pang pag-aaralan upang makapaglatag ng agarang solusyon at maibsan ang epekto ng mataas na presyo ng langis at pangunahing bilihin sa mga residente ng lungsod. 📷 Along Malapitan FB 22 hours ago

Valenzuela City at MSF nagkasundo para palakasin ang serbisyong pangkalusugan

VALENZUELA — Pormal nang nilagdaan ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Valenzuela at Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) – Philippines Branch ang isang Memorandum of Agreement noong ika-6 ng Abril para higit pang mapalakas ang serbisyong pangkalusugan sa lungsod. Pinangunahan ang ceremonial signing nina Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian at MSF Philippines Project Coordinator na si Rebecca Katie Welfare, sa Alvarez Park Cafe sa Barangay Tagalag. Layunin ng kasunduan na patatagin ang kapasidad ng lungsod sa pagtugon sa mga sakit na sensitibo sa klima at pagbutihin ang emergency preparedness at response systems. Target din nitong mapababa ang bilang ng pagkakasakit at pagkamatay sa mga high-risk urban populations sa pamamagitan ng mas pinaigting na disease surveillance, maayos na case management, at community-based health interventions. Nakabatay ang kolaborasyon sa apat na pangunahing larangan: emergency health services, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), tropical diseases, at research and development. Ayon sa mga opisyal, hindi lamang ito tungkol sa karagdagang resources kundi pati sa pagpapalitan ng kaalaman at paggamit ng international best practices upang mas mapatatag ang sistemang pangkalusugan ng lungsod. Sa kabuuan, inaasahang magsisilbing matibay na pundasyon ang MOA para sa mas coordinated na aksyon ng lokal na pamahalaan at MSF tungo sa isang mas responsive, resilient, at inclusive na serbisyong pangkalusugan para sa bawat Valenzuelano. 📷 Valenzuela City FB

22 hours ago

Libreng pamasahe sa Maynila, patuloy na umaarangkada

MAYNILA — Muling umarangkada ngayong Lunes, Abril 6, ang Libreng Pamasahe program ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Maynila bilang tugon sa patuloy na hamon sa transportasyon na kinakaharap ng mga commuter. Sa ilalim ng programa, tumatanggap ang bawat jeepney driver ng ₱3,500 kada araw kapalit ng pagbibigay ng libreng sakay sa mga pasahero. Layunin nitong mabawasan ang gastusin sa pamasahe ng publiko habang sinisiguro rin ang sapat na kita para sa mga tsuper. Unang ipinatupad ang inisyatibo noong Marso 30 at 31, at muling ipinagpatuloy mula Abril 6 hanggang Abril 8 upang mas maraming residente ang makinabang. Hinihikayat ang publiko na samantalahin ang programa bilang alternatibong transportasyon na makatutulong sa kanilang araw-araw na biyahe at gastusin. 📷 Manila Public Information Office FB

1 day ago

Pasig LGU naglunsad ng bagong ruta ng libreng sakay para sa mga commuter

PASIG CITY — Magkakaroon ng mas maayos at abot-kayang biyahe ang mga residente ng lungsod matapos ipatupad ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Pasig ang mga bagong ruta ng Libreng Sakay program simula Lunes, Abril 6, 2026. Apat na ruta ang magiging operational tuwing Lunes hanggang Biyernes, maliban kung holiday, upang mas mapalawak ang saklaw ng libreng transportasyon para sa mga Pasigueño. Kabilang sa mga rutang ito ang biyahe mula SPED sa Caruncho Avenue patungong Temporary Pasig City Hall na ipatutupad bilang point-to-point, kung saan isang sakayan at babaan lamang ang susundin. Samantala, ang tatlo pang ruta ay daraan sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng lungsod tulad ng Ligaya sa Santolan, One San Miguel Avenue sa San Antonio, at Nagpayong sa Pinagbuhatan. Magkakaroon ng mga itinalagang pick-up at drop-off points sa kahabaan ng mga rutang ito upang mas maraming commuter ang mapagsilbihan. Layunin ng programa na matulungan ang mga pasaherong nahihirapan sa pagsakay sa mga pampublikong sasakyan, lalo na sa gitna ng patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng langis. Patuloy na hinihikayat ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Pasig ang publiko na samantalahin ang Libreng Sakay bilang alternatibong transportasyon na makatutulong sa pagtitipid at mas maginhawang pagbiyahe araw-araw. 📷 Pasig LGU FB

1 day ago

Dagdag ayuda sa tsuper—Maynila itinaas ang kita sa libreng sakay program

MAYNILA — Itinaas ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Maynila ang arawang kompensasyon ng mga jeepney driver na kalahok sa Libreng Sakay program, kasunod ng patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng krudo. Mula sa dating ₱3,000, ginawa nang ₱3,500 ang matatanggap ng bawat tsuper kada araw—isang hakbang na layong maibsan ang epekto ng tumataas na gastusin sa kanilang hanapbuhay. Ayon kay Mayor Francisco "Isko" Moreno Domagoso, ang karagdagang ₱500 ay magsisilbing tulong upang mapanatili ang sapat na kita ng mga driver sa kabila ng pagmahal ng langis. Dagdag pa ng alkalde, mahalagang masuportahan ang mga tsuper na patuloy na nagbibigay serbisyo sa publiko, lalo na sa ilalim ng programang Libreng Sakay na naglalayong makatulong sa mga commuter sa lungsod. Sa kabila ng hamon ng tumataas na presyo ng krudo, tiniyak ng lokal na pamahalaan na patuloy nitong paghuhusayin ang mga programang nakatuon sa kapakanan ng parehong driver at pasahero. 📷 Manila Public Information Office FB

4 days ago

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BUSINESS

Fuel prices rise again as diesel marks seventh straight weekly hike

MANILA -- Fuel prices will increase again from Tuesday, extending a run of weekly increases that has added pressure on households and transport operators. Oil companies including Pilipinas Shell, Seaoil, Cleanfuel, Caltex, and Petrogazz said diesel prices will rise by ₱1.00 per liter, while gasoline and kerosene will increase by ₱0.60 per liter. The adjustments will take effect at 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday. The latest increase marks the seventh consecutive week of diesel price hikes. Over the past two weeks alone, diesel prices have risen by a total of ₱3.00 per liter. Seaoil said in an advisory that diesel would see the full ₱1.00 increase, while gasoline and kerosene prices would also move higher, recording their fifth and seventh straight weekly increases, respectively. Industry officials have attributed the latest round of price adjustments to global supply concerns. Jetti Petroleum president Leo Bellas said diesel prices were being supported by weather-related supply and demand disruptions and continued geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have affected global oil supply at a time when Europe is reducing its reliance on Russian-origin oil supplies. The Department of Energy said it is closely monitoring developments in the domestic fuel market to ensure that price adjustments remain fair and reflective of global movements. 📷 Kenneth Surillo, Pexels

1 month ago

Meralco cuts power rates in January, households to save ₱33

MANILA — Electricity rates for customers of Manila Electric Company (Meralco), the Philippines’ largest power distributor, fell in January, offering households some relief at the start of the new year. In a briefing on Monday, Meralco announced a reduction of ₱0.1637 per kilowatt hour (kWh), bringing the overall rate for a typical household to ₱12.9508 per kWh, down from ₱13.1145 in December. The adjustment means a household consuming 200 kWh a month will see its electricity bill drop by about ₱33, according to the company. “While there were upward pressures on certain cost components this January, overall electricity rates declined — for the second straight month,” said Meralco vice president and head of Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga. “We hope that this development will bring relief to all our customers as we start another year.” Meralco explained that the decline was driven by lower transmission and generation charges. Transmission charges fell to ₱1.04 per kWh, largely due to reduced ancillary service costs. Generation charges declined to ₱7.75 per kWh, reflecting lower prices from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) and power supply agreements. Spot market charges dropped by ₱1.19 per kWh as power supply in the Luzon grid increased. The company noted that average peak demand fell by 367 megawatts as cooler weather reduced electricity consumption. Charges from power supply agreements also decreased by ₱0.05 per kWh. The January adjustment marks the second consecutive month of lower electricity rates, following a reduction implemented in December. 📷 Meralco

2 months ago

December inflation rises slightly on higher food prices

MANILA -- Inflation rose slightly in December, mainly due to higher food prices, according to official data released on Tuesday, January 6. Consumer prices increased by 1.8% year-on-year in December, up from 1.5% in November, but remained within the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) forecast range of 1.2% to 2% for the month. For the full year 2025, inflation averaged 1.7%, significantly lower than 3.2% in 2024 and below the central bank’s target range of 2% to 4%, indicating that price increases remained generally subdued throughout the year. The December uptick was largely driven by a 1.4% rise in food and beverage prices. Although rice prices dropped sharply by 12.3%, increases in the cost of fish and seafood (9.0%), vegetables and tubers (11.6%), and meat (3.0%) pushed overall food prices higher. Clothing and footwear prices also edged up, rising from 1.8% in November to 2.2% in December. Conversely, price increases eased in several categories: Alcohol and tobacco: 3.6% (down from 3.9%) Housing, water, electricity, and gas: 1.7% (down from 2.1%) Transport: 0.4% (down from 1.9%) Restaurants and hotels: 2.5% (down from 2.6%) Personal care and other goods: 2.3% (down from 2.4%) National Statistician Dennis Mapa noted that natural disasters and holiday demand contributed to the price increase. In a statement, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said government measures had helped keep inflation within target despite both domestic and global challenges. “Despite global headwinds and domestic challenges, the Philippine economy has remained resilient against inflationary pressures due to the government’s timely and targeted interventions,” Balisacan said. He added that authorities would continue coordinating fiscal and monetary policies and advancing structural reforms to support inclusive growth in 2026 and beyond. 📷 Swarup Sarkar, Pexels

3 months ago

Corruption threatens PH economy, warns MVP

MANILA — Business tycoon Manuel “Manny” Pangilinan is sounding the alarm on government corruption — and he’s not mincing words. The Metro Pacific Investments Corp. chairman and president told the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX) that graft could stall economic growth, scare off investors, and even put the country’s credit rating at risk. “Investor confidence could get affected. I think they’re slowly getting affected by this particular event. Perhaps even credit ratings, too, could be at risk if the institution’s responses are seen to be inadequate,” Pangilinan said. He cited the alleged siphoning of ₱1 trillion in public funds from flood control projects as evidence of how deep the problem runs. “The people themselves are on a wait-and-see attitude. All I’m saying is that we have to be careful,” he added. Pangilinan warned that government spending could be cut, slowing growth further. “It could (slow down growth) because the stock market is down. How can you raise money?” He didn’t hold back on the human cost. “When cash of the magnitude of budget insertions – they say as much as ₱1 trillion – are taken out of the pockets of the many who are poor and diverted to the wallets of the few, the economy will indeed suffer, as the stock exchange has indeed suffered these past three weeks,” he said.“The market may have declined anywhere between 1.5 and 1.8 percent in the overall value of the stock exchange.” Pangilinan also warned that credit ratings are on the line. The Philippines is currently rated BBB+ by Standard & Poor’s with a positive outlook — just one step away from an “A” rating. But complacency, he said, could undo progress. “It isn’t just about catching crooks,” he said. “It’s filling the gaps with financial experts with the competence and integrity. Corruption survives not because bad people are smart, but because good people are absent.” “Citizens and concerned sectors should push back vs. graft” Pangilinan urged citizens and the private sector to defend the media, academe, courts, and the Church, calling them vital in resisting coercion and corruption. “So let me place the ethics of this flood control issue within the broader national context. The public is now increasingly aware to the fact that the presence of ethical attributes – or their absence – impacts businesses and the economy seriously,” he said. “We should be engaged even as citizens, or even as private citizens, in the first instance, as business persons managing our affairs well and doing things right,” the tycoon stressed. 📷 Presidential Communications Office

5 months ago

Ayala’s ACMobility to exit Honda dealerships by 2026; Shifts focus to EVs and sustainable mobility

MANILA -- The Ayala Group’s mobility unit is set to relinquish its Honda dealership operations after more than three decades, citing a strategic focus on emerging growth areas, including electric vehicles. Ayala Corporation disclosed on Thursday that ACMobility, through its subsidiary Iconic Dealership Inc. (IDI), will hand over its Honda dealerships to “new dealer principals” by January 1, 2026. The transition includes all Honda outlets currently operated by ACMobility, which will continue to run Honda Cars Makati, Pasig, Shaw, Bacoor, Cebu, Mandaue, Iloilo, Negros, and Cagayan de Oro until the end of this year. Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, CEO of ACMobility, said the company was “grateful, and indeed proud, to have been part of Honda’s journey in the Philippines for the past three and a half decades.” “This transition reflects our ongoing effort to optimise our portfolio and focus on new growth areas. Among these are initiatives in advancing sustainable mobility and electrification, where we continue to build solutions that benefit communities, businesses, and the environment,” Ayala added. Since 1990, ACMobility has sold more than 220,000 Honda vehicles through its dealerships, growing to become the country’s largest Honda dealer group. The move comes as both ACMobility and Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) pursue independent strategies for growth and innovation. This announcement follows a similar decision by ACMobility earlier this month to cease distribution of Volkswagen vehicles in the Philippines. Apart from Honda and Volkswagen, ACMobility’s portfolio includes BYD, Isuzu, and Kia. 📷 AC Mobility

6 months ago

Go Negosyo mentors over 1.5K QC students on youth entrepreneurship

MANILA – The Go Negosyo non-profit organization, in cooperation with the Department of Education (DepEd), conducted a youth entrepreneurship mentoring session for more than 1,500 senior high school students in Quezon City under the group’s Youthpreneur program. The mentorship event was held at San Francisco High School in Quezon City on February 21, 2025, co-led by DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, other department officials, and the Quezon City Local Government Unit (LGU). More than 50 mentors, led by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and successful entrepreneurs—including Violy Lapid, owner of R. Lapid’s Chicharon; Graciano “Butch” Salvador, owner of Car Magic Auto Painting and Street Smart Magic General Merchandise; Kim Lato, founder of Kim Store; Mika Leetong, owner of Brew & Co.; and content creator Reymond ‘Boss RDR’ Delos Reyes of RDR Business Solutions —oriented students on the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. Angara hailed the gathering as the “biggest Youthpreneur event” to date and expressed gratitude to Go Negosyo and other partners for spearheading the project. He also thanked the mentors for sharing their lessons, insights, and experiences in entrepreneurship. "What the mentors will share here today cannot be found in books because they are real-life lessons. Our young entrepreneurs are lucky to have a strong support system. DepEd and Go Negosyo are here to show you different dreams," Angara told the students at the event's opening. Concepcion also thanked key officials from DepEd, the Quezon City government, and the country’s largest business groups for supporting public school students. “Character formation is important, and a lot of it comes from parents, from mentors, from good friends,” Concepcion emphasized. The mentors encouraged students to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams at an early age. RFM Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Joey Concepcion, who also serves as Chairman of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Business Advisory Council, leads Go Negosyo, which aims to “alleviate poverty in the Philippines by promoting an entrepreneurial mindset and by leading programs that help grow small businesses, with the goal of one day transforming the Philippines into a nation of entrepreneurs.” As stated on the group’s website: “Youthpreneur… is designed for Filipino youth, specifically for senior high school students. It aims to nurture the next generation of Filipino entrepreneurs or offer entrepreneurship as an alternative to traditional employment.” “Youthpreneur is the newest program of Go Negosyo, launched on November 25, 2023, aimed at promoting an entrepreneurial mindset among Filipino youth. The program seeks to build skills through mentorship, increase financial literacy, raise agricultural awareness, cultivate entrepreneurial skills in agriculture, and facilitate industry connections for mentorship.” According to Go Negosyo, the Youthpreneur program has already reached more than 6,000 public school students across 22 schools nationwide, including several cities in the National Capital Region, Quezon Province, General Santos City, Cebu, Davao, La Union, Lucena, Laoag, Baguio, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro. 📷 DepEd, Go Negosyo

1 year ago

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