Coronavirus Lockdown: Learning From Covid-19, Cardiologists, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government. 

Another group which exploded in growth during the pandemic is continuing to grow. This time its Overlanders. 

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/301236/born-to-roam-ph-igniting-the-spirit-of-exploration-through-the-first-philippine-overlanding-festival

A new era of adventure travel is rolling through the Philippines as Born to Roam PH (BTR), a growing community of overlanders, makes its mark with the successful completion of its first Philippine Loop Caravan and the launch of the country’s first-ever Roam Fest — a celebration of travel, camaraderie, and the Filipino spirit of discovery.

Born to Roam PH began as a small, consistent group of hobbyists around 2016 and grew during the pandemic – a time when travel restrictions shut down malls and limited destinations. “We just wanted to keep the overlanding hobby alive,” said Alex Perez, Lead Founder of Born to Roam PH. “That’s why we started monthly camps all over Luzon — to give people a consistent venue to continue exploring, one campsite at a time.”

The name “Born to Roam” itself originated from a global campaign by Front Runner, a premium overlanding gear brand in South Africa which is locally distributed by Premium Overland Outfitters established in 2014. What began as a local extension of that movement evolved into a true community — welcoming all kinds of rigs and enthusiasts eager to test their builds, connect with nature, and rediscover freedom on the open road.

The name “Born to Roam” itself originated from a global campaign by Front Runner, a premium overlanding gear brand in South Africa which is locally distributed by Premium Overland Outfitters established in 2014. What began as a local extension of that movement evolved into a true community — welcoming all kinds of rigs and enthusiasts eager to test their builds, connect with nature, and rediscover freedom on the open road.

That realization came to life with Roam Fest 2025, held from October 16 to 19, 2025, at Camp Forest Springs in Bacolod City. The event transformed the vast campsite into a vibrant, united community of overlanders from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

“Roam Fest is more than just an event — it’s a movement,” said Perez. “It’s about reigniting our love for the outdoors, promoting sustainable travel, and celebrating how our journeys connect us as one nation.”

At its core, Roam Fest aims to become a yearly gathering that brings together overlanders and campers from across the country — creating a venue to connect, inspire, and promote new camping and overlanding destinations. The goal: to grow the lifestyle of outdoor appreciation and adventure while fostering community and environmental responsibility.

What started as a hobby for many has evolved into a full-blown lifestyle. “We used to camp alone or with a few friends,” shared Perez. “Now, people bring their partners, kids, and even their dogs. Overlanding has become a way of life — about balance, adaptability, and sharing the outdoors with family.”

Each overlander designs their own rig to fit their needs — reflecting not just their gear preferences but their way of living and exploring.

Overlanding in the Philippines has grown significantly — especially during the pandemic when people sought freedom and open spaces. “There are many of us now,” Perez said. “It became a hobby because there was nowhere else to go, but it stuck because it gave us something more meaningful — connection, nature, and peace.”

Born to Roam PH stands at the heart of this movement — inspiring others to discover their own rhythm of travel and to experience the country’s diverse landscapes through the lens of freedom, resilience, and community.

With its successful debut, Roam Fest is set to become an annual tradition — one that will continue to champion Philippine tourism, environmental appreciation, and the spirit of adventure.

“If you want the ultimate Philippine adventure — one that challenges you, strengthens your bonds, and makes you fall in love with your country — this is it,” said Perez. “All you need is time, resources, and the will to roam.”

From South Africa to the Philippines the desire to be a rambling man cannot be stamped out. 

In Boracay cardilogists have decided to revive a life-saving initative. They are going to teach CPR! 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1264534

The newly formed Capiz-Aklan chapter of the Philippine Heart Association (PHA) will revive the CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) on Wheels and Wings (CWW) program in Boracay Island.

The initiative is a joint advocacy of the group of cardiologists and the Department of Tourism (DOT), which started back in 2016, but took a backseat during the pandemic.

The campaign targets to equip health workers and non-medical individuals — including drivers, students, resort staffand vendors — with hands-only CPR in case of sudden cardiac arrest.

“The PHA national council on CPR and Capiz-Aklan chapter will spearhead the revival of the CWW, aimed to transform the country’s tourist destinations into CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED)-ready communities and establishments,” said newly minted chapter president, Dr. Rommel Mosquete, in a statement released by the PHA on Wednesday.

He said cardiovascular disease is the leading health menace in the Philippines and around the world.

"A cardiac arrest victim has to be revived within four to six minutes to prevent irreversible neurologic or brain damage. That is why knowledge of hands-only CPR among bystanders or a witness is crucial to save a life while waiting for the ambulance to arrive,” Mosquete added.

The chapter targets to hold the training in February 2026.

During the three-day training in October 2016, around 550 participants were trained in partnership with the local government of Malay through its Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the Boracay Foundation and DOT.

Meanwhile, Mosquete took his oath as president of the Aklan and Capiz chapter before PHA national president Dr. Walid Amid in a ceremony in Roxas City on Sunday.

The chapter has 13 cardiologist members who previously served under PHA Western Visayas–Panay.

They now operate as the 15th provincial chapter of the PHA.

Knowing CPR should be standard for all health workers. This only reveals how backwards the Philippines really is. 

In Cebu City thousands of health workers still have not received their pandemic allowances. 

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/p431m-allowance-still-unreleased

THOUSANDS of health workers in Cebu City reportedly remain unpaid for their service during the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a councilor.

Years after the height of the crisis, Councilor Pastor “Jun” Alcover Jr. is urging immediate action to release the Health Emergency Allowance (HEA). Despite the National Government allocating funds, administrative failures and the dissolution of pandemic-response offices have left nearly 4,000 former frontliners without the benefits mandated by law.

Why is the distribution of HEA stalled

The delay persists due to a breakdown in record-keeping following the disbandment of temporary pandemic offices and the lack of designated personnel to manage the payroll lists. While funds are reportedly available, bureaucratic hurdles and redundant requirements have prevented the money from reaching the beneficiaries. 

Availability of funds

The funds required to pay these workers are reportedly already in the possession of the local government. Records from the City Treasurer’s Office indicate that Cebu City received P431,324,718 intended for HEA disbursement.

Councilor Mikel Rama noted that the Department of Budget and Management released P6.767 billion nationwide for HEA allocations in November. This contradicts any claims that the City is waiting for the National Government to download the funds. Rama emphasized that the delay contradicts the intent of Republic Act (RA) 11712.

Allowance tiers and legal basis

Under RA 11712, the Public Health Emergency Benefits and Allowances for Health Care Workers Act, eligible workers are entitled to a monthly HEA based on their risk exposure. These mandated minimum rates are P3,000 for those in low-risk areas (office-based personnel), P6,000 for medium-risk areas (field workers) and P9,000 for those deployed in high-risk areas (hospitals and areas involving direct contact with infectious agents).

These benefits are applicable retroactively to July 1, 2021, and remain in effect for the duration of the declared public health emergency. Eligible recipients cover a broad range of public and private health care and non-health care workers, regardless of employment status (including contractual and job order personnel). This includes nurses, midwives, medical technologists and support staff, as well as registered barangay health workers who are part of the Department of Health’s response efforts. The prior law, RA 11494 (Bayanihan to Recover as One Act), provided similar but temporary benefits that expired before RA 11712 took effect.

Disbanded offices and missing records

A significant cause of the delay is the dissolution of specific units created to handle the pandemic response. These include Project Noah (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards), the Cebu City Quarantine Center, the City Health Department and the Emergency Operations Center.

When these offices closed, many personnel resigned or moved to other jobs. Consequently, there were no “focal persons” left to consolidate and track the lists of qualified recipients. This led to late or incomplete submissions of names to the Department of Health (DOH).

“This issue has been going on for a very long time. The problem is that our offices submitted their lists to the DOH late. Many offices only existed during the pandemic and have since disappeared, which is why the processing became disorganized,” Alcover said.

Redundant requirements

Despite validation processes conducted by the DOH and the City, some offices continue to demand additional documents from workers, such as office clearances, service records, computation sheets and signed undertakings.

Alcover argues that these requirements are unnecessary for workers who have already been validated and included in the master list. He contends that presenting an identification card should suffice and adding more prerequisites only prolongs the wait.

“Yet up to this day, wa gihapon sila makadawat sa Health Emergency Allowance nga gisaad sa balaod,” he said.

Consequences and next steps

The City Accounting Office and the treasurer’s office have committed to releasing the allowances by Dec. 24. However, the City Council has requested an executive session to clarify the exact status of the payroll, the amount of unutilized funds and the specific steps required to ensure lawful disbursement.

Failure to meet the December deadline would mean that thousands of workers still have to wait. The City Government must now focus on determining exactly who remains unlisted and how to process the payroll through the Management Information and Computer Services system immediately.

“This is not just delayed paperwork. This is justice… It is only right that this government fulfills its obligation to them,” Alcover said.

So much red tape for people to get what they are owed!

One journalist has recounted her harrowing experience covering the pandemic. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2152650/covering-and-learning-from-covid-19

The Philippines, like many other countries, was not immune to the initial shock waves of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Reports of rising influenza-like illnesses in the past months pushed Filipinos to be more careful—yet again. Some were again seen wearing face masks.

Given the years of living under the shadow of COVID-19, such reaction to sickness is, I guess, expected.

During the pandemic, journalists played a crucial role in keeping people informed, while also experiencing difficulty delivering information about COVID-19 from government officials, some of whom were reluctant to answer queries.

Reporters worked remotely as government press conferences were held online. This led to many unanswered questions, including why the COVID-19 crisis was escalating amid class suspensions and travel restrictions.

Scary experience

The Philippine Daily Inquirer had adjusted to the pandemic to ensure that coverage continued while the safety of employees was also protected. The work arrangements included shuttle service to pick up and drop off employees, as well as the implementation of the work-from-home option.

There were instances when reporters exposed to people who tested positive for COVID-19 feared they had caught the virus, too.

I repeatedly cried out of fear that I might have brought the virus to my parents, who are both senior citizens, and my daughter, who was still a minor.

While the experience of covering the pandemic was both exciting and instructive, I must admit that it was often scary most of the time.

But I also knew that despite the fears that came with the job, journalists needed to present accurate news to the public so they would know what to do, especially when more and more people began catching the virus.

These days, every time the flu season comes around, I always think that the simple act of wearing a mask is not just about safekeeping oneself or others, but is also about preventing history from repeating itself.

During the pandemic, journalists had to find alternatives and adhere to safety measures to gather news once lockdowns and compulsory social distancing measures were implemented.

Invisible subject

Reporters had to strategize when it came to news gathering, especially in verifying information and interviewing sources.

Philippine media organizations took unprecedented steps to ensure the well-being of employees while delivering timely updates to a public starving for information.

Compared to other assignments, the danger for journalists this time was that the deadly subject was invisible.

In July 2023, President Marcos lifted the “state of public health emergency” declared due to COVID-19. But while the pandemic exposed weaknesses in the country’s health-care system, the Department of Health believed it also paved the way for “transformative improvements” in health-care response.

The COVID-19 may have upended our lives, but it also encouraged us to see things in a different light, to find creative ways to thrive in the new normal and to appreciate our homes and our loved ones.

Staying positive

The pandemic forced all of us to quickly bounce back from challenging times. It allowed us to adapt in many ways—in the way we connected and engaged with people, the way we worked and the way we took care of our health.

I learned that staying positive was key. I had the opportunity to exercise, eat healthier meals and spend more time talking to my family.

But more than protecting one’s health to fight illness, I also learned pandemic survival tips that I practiced with my family.

It helps to be equipped with the right information to allow you to make cautious yet rational decisions. Thus, getting facts from verified media outlets is important amid the spread of fake news.

It also pays not to be overconfident or too complacent because of other people around us.

While we may think of ourselves as having strong immune systems, we have to be considerate of others, like our senior citizen parents, who are more vulnerable.

Taking care of oneself also means taking care of others, particularly in our own households. For many of us, it took a pandemic to drive home that truth.

Too bad she wasn't courageous enough to speak out against the experimental vaccines or to question the government's unnecessary and economically crippling lockdowns. Hoo-ray for Filipino journalism. 

Coronavirus Lockdown: The Value Chain, Construction Industry, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government. 

One of the most important lessons learned by every country during the pandemic is how reliant they are on the global supply chain. The Philippines hopes to change that fact. 

https://www.bworldonline.com/top-stories/2025/11/27/714852/phl-manufacturers-need-to-move-up-the-value-chain/

PHILIPPINE MANUFACTURERS should go up the value chain to produce more globally competitive export products and cater to the country’s growing domestic base amid global disruptions, according to industry stakeholders.

Federation of Philippine Industries President John Reinier H. Dizon said that recent global shocks revealed the country’s import dependency for some products.

“I think a couple of years ago, everyone can still remember when the pandemic hit us all. And for me, the key learning there is it actually exposed our risk that we are dependent on the global supply chain,” he said at the BusinessWorld Forecast 2026 on Tuesday. 

Mr. Dizon recalled that during the pandemic the Philippines had to manufacture basic items such as face masks. “Then over time we were able to actually develop local industries to support those things,” he added.

In the last 25 years, he said that the Philippines opened its borders to Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members and forged bilateral agreements with several countries.

“Now, there are pros and cons to such free trade, and there is nothing wrong with free trade. It obviously helps companies and individuals procure cheaper products… but many other countries have placed more safeguards vis-a-vis the Philippines,” Mr. Dizon said. 

“The Philippines was maybe a little bit more aggressive, and in hindsight, as a consequence, several industries actually faltered,” he added. 

Within ASEAN, he said that the Philippines recorded the biggest trade deficit at P54 billion in 2024. 

“Now, if we compare that with the likes of Vietnam, they actually had a trade surplus of P28 billion; Thailand’s trade surplus of P6 billion; Malaysia, a trade surplus of P20 billion; and Indonesia, a trade deficit, but at a much more manageable level, at P15 billion,” he said. 

To address this, Mr. Dizon said that there should be more support for Filipino products.

“It’s not a silver bullet, but let’s patronize our local products, food, consumer goods, etc. Because it’s always easy to import, it’s cheaper. But make no mistake, it has dire consequences and multiplier effects,” he said.

“We need to revive manufacturing and production in our country,” he added.

Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation, Inc. (SEIPI) President Danilo C. Lachica said that the goal is to maintain the country’s competitive advantage.

“Definitely, we want to maintain whatever limited competitive advantage that we have. But if you look at the challenges, and I’m not just talking about the export industry but even local industries, there’s a whole slew of challenges, both external and internal,” he said.

Domestically, Mr. Lachica said that the Philippines is facing several issues including prop osed legislated wage hikes, field audits by the Bureau of Internal Revenue, and corruption.

“For the electronics industry to be able to catch up, we need to look at moving up the value chain in terms of technology, improving our talent and infrastructure,” he said. 

For the semiconductor and electronics industry, Mr. Lachica said that the country needs to build its own wafer fabrication plant to move up the value chain.

“This is what we need to grow — our own integrated circuit design industry. This is what we need to get the Philippines on the map for front-end semiconductor manufacturing,” he said.

Mr. Lachica said it is very important that the Philippines should plan for the long term amid the changing geopolitical landscape and trade policies.

“We cannot be paralyzed by what we hear. We just have to make the most intelligent decisions based on the information, whether it’s investment or the market. We certainly have to minimize dependence on certain markets,” he said. 

“But I think what we all should be doing really is from the private sector, we need to work closely with the government and academe to put forward initiatives and programs to the best interest of the Philippines,” he added. 

Meanwhile, Victor Andres C. Manhit, president of think tank Stratbase ADR Institute, said the Philippines does not have to be an export-oriented country, as it has a strong consumer base.

Household consumption, which accounts for around 70% of Philippine gross domestic product, has been a driver of growth.

Instead, Mr. Manhit said the country should focus on capacitating its people, which is key to sustaining growth momentum.

“We focus on building the capacity of our young people. They can consume. They can be hired in more strategic manufacturing industries, part of the global supply chain, continue to grow the business process outsourcing industry, and develop the creative industry,” he added.

Mr. Manhit said giving incentives to export-oriented enterprises and not to domestic enterprises was a “mistake policy-wise.” 

Aside from thinking long term or beyond political timelines, he said that there is a need to invest in the country’s strong sectors.

“Let’s start to think long term and invest in those strengths that we have, build on the capacity of our local industries, look at the consumers as a potential source of growth, and always think about how important we are in geopolitics,” he added.

It's almost as if having a strong independent economy and manufacturing sector is important to the economic health of the nation. Who knew?

During the pandemic many parents sold their children online to foreigners. One mother has finally been sentenced to prison for her crimes. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2146927/woman-gets-life-term-for-sexually-abusing-own-kids-other-minors

A Taguig City court has sentenced a woman to life imprisonment and ordered her to pay P4.3 million in fines and damages for sexually abusing seven minors—four of them her own children—in exchange for money from online viewers at the height of the pandemic, the International Justice Mission (IJM) said.

In a Nov. 17 decision, the Taguig City Regional Trial Court’s Branch 163 imposed two prison sentences on the woman: life imprisonment for qualified trafficking and reclusion perpetua (up to 40 years) for possession of child sexual abuse material. She was also ordered to pay P4 million in fines and P300,000 in damages.

According to IJM, the conviction was secured with the help of digital evidence to “[spare] survivors from the trauma of reliving their abuse in court and facing their perpetrator.”

The case stemmed from the April 2020 arrest of the 25-year-old woman in Taguig City and the rescue of seven minors during an operation that was conducted based on a tip from the United States Homeland Security Investigations.

It was the second police operation against the online sexual exploitation of children that was carried out while the country was on lockdown due to COVID-19.

The victims, composed of six males and a female between the ages of 3 and 14 at the time, were rescued from the scene. Four of them were the suspect’s own children, the IJM said.

The woman operated under multiple social media usernames, online accounts and contact numbers to conceal her illegal activities.

“This crime thrives in the shadows—often within homes—which is why community vigilance is key to stopping it,” said IJM Philippines’ Community Engagement Director Evelyn Pingul.

One has to wonder why it took five years to reach this verdict. But of course that is how it is in the Philippines. 

Tourism continues to pick up which is why the Philippines is opening one of the world's largest hotels in Manila. 

https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/philippines-to-open-worlds-largest-movenpick-hotel-in-manila/

Manila is ready to take its place on the world stage in the hospitality industry with the opening of the world’s largest Movenpick Hotel. Megaworld Corporation is a dominant player in the real estate and tourism sectors and recently joined with French hospitality major Accor, to convert the Grand Westside Hotel hotel with its 1,530 guest rooms into the Movenpick Manila Bay Westside. This highly ambitious project, therefore, positions the Philippines to be a major player in global tourism for the foreseeable future.

Boosting the Philippines’ Global Tourism Profile

The project is part of Megaworld’s larger strategy to boost the Philippines’ international tourism appeal. Located in Paranaque at the Westside City township, a sprawling 31-hectare area, the hotel is poised to cater to both international tourists and domestic travellers. The Movenpick Manila Bay Westside will offer luxury accommodations while benefiting from its prime location near the country’s first Grand Opera House and a major casino and entertainment complex.

The Philippine government has long targeted tourism as a critical growth area, and developments like this Movenpick hotel underscore the country’s efforts to enhance its position on the world tourism map. As international travel picks up post-pandemic, the country is expected to see a surge in both foreign and domestic visitors, which in turn will drive economic growth and job creation in the hospitality sector.

A Key Tourism Development for Manila’s Bay Area

The Westside City township in Paranaque, the future home of Movenpick Manila Bay Westside, is already a focal point of development within Metro Manila’s tourism landscape. The township is strategically positioned close to key transport hubs and leisure destinations, making it an attractive site for international tourists.

The hotel’s two-tower design, along with a dedicated skybridge connecting it to the adjacent casino and entertainment complex, is expected to elevate the area’s stature as a major tourist hub. With the ongoing development of the Grand Opera House, the entire precinct is set to become a one-stop destination for luxury, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) views such developments as a vital part of the country’s long-term tourism strategy. The Movenpick Manila Bay Westside is expected to attract high-value international tourists, such as those from Europe, the Middle East, and other regions, providing a strong push for the tourism sector to recover and grow.

Strategic Partnership Enhances Tourism Infrastructure

The collaboration between Megaworld and Accor marks a significant step in the Philippines’ growing tourism industry. Accor’s presence in the country is already strong, with a wide range of hotel offerings, from luxury to economy brands. By introducing the world’s largest Movenpick hotel to Manila, the company aims to further consolidate its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region.

The rebranding of the Grand Westside Hotel into Movenpick Manila Bay Westside also signals a shift towards more upscale, world-class offerings in the country’s hospitality market. According to government tourism officials, the move is part of broader efforts to elevate the Philippines as a destination that meets international standards and attracts a wider range of global visitors.

Mövenpick Manila: A Major Driver for Employment and Local Economy

The introduction of the Movenpick Manila Bay Westside hotel is expected to create thousands of jobs across various sectors, including hospitality, retail, construction, and entertainment. As the hospitality industry grows, so too does the potential for ancillary services, from transport and food services to local tourism activities.

The DOT has highlighted such developments as critical to achieving the country’s tourism targets. The expansion of high-end tourism infrastructure, particularly in key urban areas like Manila, is expected to help the country meet its goals of attracting millions of international visitors annually. The growth of tourism also aligns with the government’s broader objectives of boosting the Philippine economy and improving the livelihoods of communities dependent on tourism-related industries.

A Bright Future for Philippine Tourism

By 2026, The Movenpick Manila Bay Westside is estimated to open which is apparently going to be one of the foundations of the country’s tourism strategy. In pursuit of the Greater Manila Area’s vision as a tourism hotspot and as part of the country’s growing tourism strategy, the Philippine government is utilizing new establishments like this Movenpick hotel to attract a variety of international tourists.

This progress goes to show how the Philippines continues to strive to be a premier destination around the world. It exposes international travellers to top-notch services and also greatly enriches the local economy.

Why would tourists want to stay in an overpriced luxury hotel in Manila? That's not the real Philippine experience. 

At any rate air traffic is "closing in on (a) new record high."

https://www.philstar.com/business/2025/12/02/2491180/air-traffic-closing-new-record-high

Philippine air traffic is on pace to set a new record in the post-pandemic period, especially as the international segment is close to touching 2019 levels, according to the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB).

Based on CAB data, air travel in the Philippines has reached 46.84 million passengers as of September, which is 78 percent of last year’s 59.91 million.

Broken down, domestic passenger volume has hit 24.95 million, which is roughly seven million shy of the 2024 total, and airlines expect to finish on a high note as demand tends to peak in the fourth quarter.

Likewise, international passenger traffic is flirting with the 22-million level, putting it on track to record a new post-pandemic high. The Philippines is seeing a surge in international travel, thanks to the arrival of new carriers and launch of more routes.

Locally, low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific is dominating the competition, cornering 55 percent of the market. Cebu Pacific, together with its regional carrier Cebgo, has flown 13.62 million domestic passengers as of September.

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) accounted for 30 percent with 7.42 million, while budget operator AirAsia Philippines landed at 14 percent with 3.4 million.

Boutique carrier AirSWIFT, also owned by Cebu Pacific, ferried 328,494, followed by Sunlight Air (124,436), Royal Air Philippines (45,970) and Island Aviation (8,736).

Meanwhile, foreign carriers grabbed 57 percent of the market with 12.37 million, lifted by the arrival of new airlines, such as Air Canada and Air India, linking Manila to their home countries.

In April, Air Canada mounted weekly services between Manila and Vancouver to become the first and only Canadian carrier bridging the two cities on a non-stop basis. Air India followed suit in October, launching direct flights between Manila and New Delhi.

Domestic carriers are also joining the push to connect Manila to more destinations abroad. PAL, for one, ramped up Seattle flights to five times weekly to support the rising demand for non-stop trips to the Pacific Northwest.

By June 2026, PAL is increasing weekly frequency for Los Angeles flights to 18 times a week, as the city prepares for a series of international events that could attract millions of visitors.

The Philippines recorded its highest volume of international passengers in 2019, reaching 30.53 million, but has struggled to recover to that level since the pandemic.

The people will come. They have always come to the Philippines. But those same people are still recovering from the economic effects of the pandemic which is tied with the high inflation around the world. 

In Northern Mindanao the construction industry is helping the region recover from the pandemic. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1264456

The construction industry in Northern Mindanao was identified as a key driver of the region's economic recovery after the Covid-19 pandemic, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said on Tuesday.

During the Regional Dissemination Forum here, PSA-10 analyst Micah Joy Oppus said that in 2024, the region approved 12,095 building permits, reflecting a 17.2 percent increase from 2023.

"The construction activities in the region gradually bounced back after a significant downturn in 2020, mainly due to the pandemic," she said.

Oppus said residential construction activities saw the highest growth among different construction types in 2024, with 9,379 or a 77.5-percent increase from 2023.

PSA-10 Director Janith Aves said the construction industry stands as one of the region's most visible markers of progress.

Residential construction has seen the highest growth in the region at a 77.5% increase from 2023. 

Coronavirus Lockdown: Lessons From Pandemic, Waste Management, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government. 

Iloilo City, along with the rest of the Philippines, is filled with garbage. Notably plastic.  This pollution  increased during the pandemic. 

https://punto.com.ph/iloilo-city-powers-up-waste-management-with-project-agubay/

According to the City Environment Office (CENRO), Iloilo City, home to nearly half a million residents, faces a growing waste crisis, generating more than 314 metric tons of waste daily — nearly 40% of which is plastic. To address this urgent challenge, Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines Inc. (CCFPI), Central Philippine University (CPU), and the Iloilo City Government have launched Project AGUBAY, a first of its kind data-driven Solid Waste Management Information System (SWM-IS) covering 180 barangays.

The project’s name, AGUBAY — derived from the Ilonggo word meaning “to support, to guide, to help” — also stands for Awareness, Guidance, Unity, Biodiversity, Action, and Yield. This reflects its mission of empowering communities with tools and knowledge to create more sustainable waste solutions.

Addressing Iloilo City’s waste challenge

Iloilo City’s waterways and coastal areas have long been vulnerable to plastic pollution, worsened by the surge in single-use plastics during the COVID-19 pandemic. With nearly half a million residents across 180 barangays, including 26 situated in riverine and coastal areas, inefficient collection systems and non-functional material recovery facilities (MRFs) have left waterways vulnerable to pollution.

“This project aims to ensure no barangay is left behind in the city’s fight against waste,” said Cecile Alcantara, President of Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines Inc. “By investing in digital tools and community empowerment, Project AGUBAY shows how collaboration between business, academia, and local government can turn sustainability goals into real, on-the-ground progress.”

Smarter, Faster Waste Solutions

At the heart of Project AGUBAY is the Solid Waste Management Information System (SWM-IS) — a centralized digital platform that generates real-time reports to help barangays and the city government:

• Formulate and update Barangay Ecological Solid Waste Management (BESWM) Programs in 152 barangays.
• Build a centralized SWM database for stronger city-wide monitoring and governance.
• Deploy Barangay Material Recovery System (BMRS) equipment to improve segregation, collection, and diversion.
• Train barangay leaders and city stakeholders in implementing sustainable waste solutions.

“Each barangay has unique waste challenges. With real-time data, we can design solutions that truly fit community needs — saving time, resources, and strengthening accountability,” said Dr. Mary O’ Penetrante, Project Team Lead from CPU.

They don’t say exactly why or how this increase happened but I guess one is not suppose to ask questions.

The economy continues to slump proving corruption is more powerful than the actual shutting down of the economy.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/ph-retail-braces-for-strong-q4-on-bonuses-remittances

PHILIPPINE retail is expected to benefit from a traditionally strong fourth quarter, driven by employees’ holiday bonuses and higher remittances from overseas Filipinos, consultancy Colliers Philippines said. 

With inflation projected to settle below the government’s two to four percent target in 2025, disposable incomes are likely to support heightened consumer spending this season.

In its latest market report, Colliers urged mall operators and retailers to intensify marketing campaigns and curate holiday events to attract shoppers. 

Experiential retail, including activity centers, bazaars, concerts, and family-friendly installations, has proven effective in increasing foot traffic and time spent in malls, the firm noted. 

It also highlighted the growing importance of omnichannel strategies, as consumers increasingly mix online and offline shopping. Enhanced digital platforms, streamlined checkouts, discounted shipping, and expedited deliveries complement physical stores, which remain critical to Filipino shopping habits amid near pre-pandemic traffic levels.

Colliers sees opportunities for developers to attract foreign brands, particularly in home furnishing and personal accessories, which typically occupy large mall spaces and accelerate overall space absorption. 

The firm said these trends signal a shift toward more immersive and premium retail experiences in the Philippines.

Shopping is only near pre-pandemic levels which means the economy is not back not normal. 

The BSP has released a book highlighting lessons lear ned from the pandemic.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/bsp-unveils-in-mindanao-its-book-highlighting-lessons-from-pandemic/

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) brought the story of its battle against the pandemic to Mindanao on Nov. 19, with the regional launch of “Leading the BSP in the Pandemic”, a book by former BSP Governor and now Monetary Board Member Benjamin E. Diokno.

The event in Cagayan de Oro City marked the book’s first launch in Mindanao.

BSP Mindanao Regional Director Judith G. Dolot said the publication documents a crucial period in the country’s economic history.

“We’re not just launching a book,” Dolot said. “We’re preserving a defining chapter of our country’s economic history.”

Dolot said the book outlines how the BSP worked to keep the economy operating during the height of global uncertainty. She also cited Diokno’s role in leading the institution through COVID-19 pandemic.

She described Diokno as a leader who protected the economy during the darkest months of the pandemic.

Diokno said he wrote the book to give Filipinos a behind-the-scenes account of the pandemic, which began shortly after he assumed office.

“Lockdowns were imposed. The economy collapsed. The COVID pandemic was worse than war because we’re facing an invisible enemy, it was all over, and potentially lethal. Managing the economy during this time was an uncharted territory, especially for monetary authorities and world leaders. Back then, there was no existing playbook on how they should respond to keep the economy and the financial systems stable,” he said.

Diokno said the Monetary Board convened in person every Thursday to act quickly. Under his leadership, the BSP cut policy rates, injected liquidity into the economy, and extended up to P540 billion in interest-free provisional advances to support government emergency programs.

“Our actions were guided by our mission to bring the BSP closer to the Filipino people. During the unprecedented health and economic crisis, we did not shy away from our responsibility. We stood up and protected the interests of the people we serve,” he said.

The BSP also set limits on credit card charges, issued regulatory relief to banks, accelerated digital payments, and expanded consumer protection through an AI-powered chatbot and legislative measures.

Despite global credit downgrades, the Philippines kept its investment-grade rating during the pandemic. Diokno credited this to coordinated fiscal and monetary action.

“Internally, we continued our reforms to make the Philippines more agile and resilient in these new ways. We invested in our people, ramped up digital transformation, upgraded key infrastructure, and deepened research culture within the organization,” he added.

Dolot thanked Diokno for documenting the BSP’s response. “In dark times, there are people who will always step up, no matter what. And MBM Ben Diokno is one of those,” she said.

She said the book shows how the BSP, together with government partners, the private sector, and the financial community, developed monetary and financial measures that supported businesses, protected workers, strengthened the financial system, and assisted Filipino families.

COVID was worse than war?  Hilarious!!  Because now we see that corruption is worse than the pandemic. That means corruption is worse than war and the enemy is not invisible. The enemy is Filipinos. 

Coronavirus Lockdown: Graft Cases In Pharmally Mess Withdrawn, P-Pop, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government. 

Singer-songwriter Jona Viray rescues animals. She has been doing this since 2009 but acquired her current property during the pandemic. 

https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/pet-life/2025/11/11/2486434/70-dogs-cats-saved-jona-viray-tours-farm-rescued-strays

Singer-songwriter Jona Viray gave a glimpse of her Rizal farm where stray animals she rescued reside.

In her latest YouTube upload, broadcast journalist Karen Davila visited Jona's three-hectare farm in Tanay, Rizal, which the singer has been overseeing since the pandemic, though her rescue efforts date back to 2009.

Jona shared that she had rescued around 70 dogs and cats to date, though some of them that are ill or have disabilities are back in Manila, including one named Lupe, whose hind legs are paralyzed after an accident.

Some animals have been adopted but a majority of those still at the farm are those she and her companions have been looking after since being rescued and treated.

Many of the dogs that run free around the farm are named after celebrities like Kendall, Miley and Sitti — the latter Jona rescued from Boso-Boso in Antipolo, which she linked with the bossa nova singer.

Meanwhile, the cats — who have names like Hope, Gnocchi, Garfield and Tomas (who was rescued in Tomas Morato) — have all been neutered and spayed.

Karen asked Jona why she wasn't as public about her animal welfare efforts like fellow celebrities who are also animal advocates.

"Ginagawa ko ito not for publicity, basta I know may natutulungan kami and we're hopefully doing good work," Jona explained.

Jona joked that she isn't able to mingle or date because all her spare time and energy are dedicated to the farm.

She didn't let the pandemic slow down her efforts. 

The Philippine Stock Exchange index has fallen to a five year low due to the ongoing corruption scandal. 

https://business.inquirer.net/557749/psei-plunges-to-fresh-5-year-low-tracks-pandemic-level

The government’s corruption crisis, softer consumption and cut in public spending that led to economic growth slowing to a four-year low continued to erode investor confidence, with the capital index on track to drop to its weakest finish since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) fell by another 1.29 percent, or 73.57 points, to close at 5,629.07, a fresh five-year low.

The broader All Shares Index also declined by 0.94 percent, or 32.82 points, to 3,465.61.

Among the key sectors, only the services ended in the positive territory. Financials and property sectors bled more on Tuesday’s trading.

Analysts said that the local bourse continued to see a bloodbath as depressing government data clouded investor optimism.

“The market remained weak as investors continue to price in softer GDP (gross domestic product) growth for the next few quarters, with 3Q25 corporate earnings starting to show strain from the weakening economy,” said Alfred Benjamin Garcia, research head at AP Securities Inc.

Last week, the government reported that the economy grew by just 4 percent in the July to September period, its slowest since the first quarter of 2021—when the Duterte administration imposed hard lockdowns to lessen the virus’ blow.

The Marcos administration’s growth target, on the other hand, is set at 5.5 percent to 6.5 percent.

The sharp contraction in public spending was blamed on widespread anomalies linked to flood control projects. To recall, the Department of Public Works and Highways had suspended a number of activities, especially those covering bidding and procurement for local projects.

Household consumption also slowed to 4.1 percent due to a series of typhoons.

“While the index may stage an interim rebound due to oversold conditions, the general directional bias remains on the downside. Any rally, if any, may just be temporary,” Ron Acoba, chief investment strategist at Trading Edge Consultancy, said in a message.

“As of now, the index is clearly trending south, and is now eyeing its pandemic low of around 4,500,” Acoba added.

He even noted that the index would have already plunged to the pandemic level without a lift from International Container Terminal Services, Inc. and Manila Electric Co., which he said “account for about 20 percent weight in the index.”

“As for whether the weakness could drag on, short-term, the market seems to be trying to find a support level where valuations are cheap enough to justify bargain-hunting. Until that bottom is found, we can’t say for certain when this trend will reverse,” Garcia added.

For Tuesday’s trading, DigiPlus Interactive Corp. logged the highest gain, increasing 7.65 percent to P27.45. Universal Robina Corp., on the other hand, was the worst index performer, falling 6.64 percent to P66.10. 

Corruption is more destructive than actually shutting down the economy like what happened during the pandemic. 

Another P-Pop star is rising.  He started his journey for real during the pandemic. 

https://tribune.net.ph/2025/11/15/raks-the-dumaguete-born-dreamer-rises-in-p-pop

In a fast-evolving P-pop landscape dominated by powerhouse groups and genre-bending soloists, a new name is quietly but steadily carving his space — Raks, the 23-year-old artist from Dumaguete City whose journey is built on passion, grit, and an unwavering belief in what music can do.

Signed under Beetzee Inc., Raks embodies the new generation of Filipino performers: self-made, self-trained, and fueled by the desire to tell stories that resonate. His artistry is defined not just by talent, but by years of early-stage discipline, a deep sense of purpose, and a commitment to continuous growth.

Childhood shaped by stages and spotlights

Long before he stepped into the world of P-pop, Rakhim S. Tahir was a boy who simply loved to perform.

He began at six years old, joining local talent shows, school programs, and later, national and international competitions. One of his earliest breakthroughs came in 2018, when he represented the Philippines at the World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Long Beach, California — bringing home six medals across all categories he joined.

The following year, he tried his luck on national television through Idol Philippines, marking the beginning of his transition from a competition kid to a more intentional, self-aware artist.

Discovering his voice through songwriting

It wasn’t until 2023 that Raks found a deeper, more personal way of expressing himself — songwriting.

His debut single, “Me, Myself, and I,” marked his first step in crafting original music. Later that year, he joined a songwriting competition where his self-written and choreographed entry, “Care to Spend the Rest of the Night with Me,” earned him 2nd runner-up, proving that his artistry extends beyond vocals and performances.

His growth continued onstage, including a standout appearance at Sillimusika 2024 where he served as one of the front acts for Lola Amour, and a performance at V1BE Fest Manila’s Creators Studio inside the Mall of Asia Arena.

In August 2025, he also took part in the All-University Acquaintance Party of Silliman University, further solidifying his reputation as Dumaguete’s rising hometown performer.

A pandemic that sparked a dream

Like many Gen Z artists, the pandemic became a turning point.

Confined at home, Raks immersed himself in K-pop and P-pop, discovering a world where storytelling, choreography, and performance merged into something electrifying.

This was the moment he decided: he wanted to become an idol.

Since then, he has auditioned for shows, joined training camps, attended workshops, and honed his skills in singing, dancing, and stage performance. It was a long and often challenging road, but on 16 October 2024, his persistence paid off — he officially signed with Beetzee Inc.

Now, he is preparing for his grand debut as the label’s newest P-pop soloist.

Beyond the stage lights, Raks is grounded, thoughtful, and driven by both gratitude and ambition. Here’s a closer look at the artist behind the rising name.

His musical influences growing up

“It started with Bruno Mars. Pero habang nagshi-shift ako ng genre (But, I started shifting genre). I’m now heavily influenced by Jackson Wang on the foreign side, and BGYO and SB19 from the Philippines.”

These influences show in his sound —smooth, performance-heavy, and emotionally charged.

Life beyond music

“I am currently a second-year Mass Communication student at Silliman University. Before that, I studied Music major in Voice starting in 2021.

Tumutulong din po ako minsan sa mom ko (I sometimes help my)  who works as a fish vendor in the public market.”

Behind the spotlight is a student balancing academics, training, and family responsibilities — a testament to his determination.

Dream collaborations

“SB19 po, kasi they’re an all-around group. I love their songs and how they can perform any genre. Inspiring sila and amazing artists.

I also want to collab with Jackson Wang — I admire his artistry and how he expresses himself through music.”

These choices highlight his alignment with powerful, genre-fluid performers.

Songs he wants to cover

“It would definitely be ‘What’ by SB19. It would be really nice if I could have a mega crew dancing with me for that cover.”

A bold choice that matches his love for strong choreography and intense performance energy.

His goals as an artist

“As a growing artist, gusto ko pong ma-recognize ng maraming tao. I want to reach more people through my music and hopefully promote in Manila as an idol someday.”

It’s a simple but heartfelt dream — one that is already unfolding.

Now his persistence is paying off. 

The charges agains Pharmally have been dropped. The excuse is so that the Ombudsman can re-investigate it. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2141811/graft-cases-in-pharmally-mess-withdrawn-but-ombudsman-may-review

The Sandiganbayan has allowed the withdrawal of graft charges linked to the multibillion-peso Pharmally scandal, a controversy tied to the Duterte administration’s pandemic procurement, paving the way for the Office of the Ombudsman to review and reinvestigate the cases.

The anti-graft court’s First Division released on Monday a 12-page resolution, addressing the six graft cases filed against former Budget Undersecretary Lloyd Christopher Lao and several other officials.

The other Procurement Service – Department of Budget and Management (PS-DBM) officials named are:

• Warren Rex Hernandez Liong, procurement director
• Augusto Menchavez Ylagan, PS‑DBM employee
• Webster Marmol Laureñana, acting division chief of procurement
• Paul Jasper Villanueva De Guzman, procurement officer
• Christine Marie Lecaros Suntay, administrative/finance director

Meanwhile, the Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. executives involved in this case include the following:

• Twinkle Dargani, president
• Mohit Dargani, corporate secretary/treasurer
• Linconn Uy Ong, director
• Justine Garado, director
• Huang Tzu Yen, chairperson
• Krizle Grace Ukkong Mago, executive
• Lin Weixiong, financial manager
• Jasonmer Lagarto Uayan, executive

The court emphasized that a sitting ombudsman has “the power to revoke or alter the rulings of a predecessor within the bounds of law.” 

“The Ombudsman is not barred from ordering a new review of a complaint, as he or she may revoke, repeal, or abrogate the acts or previous rulings of a predecessor,” the ruling said.

“After careful consideration of the facts, allegations, and records of these cases, this Court deems it appropriate to grant the withdrawal of the Informations against the accused despite the previous finding of probable cause and subsequent issuance of the warrants of arrest,” it further explained.

Last month, the Office of the Ombudsman ordered the withdrawal of cases filed before the Sandiganbayan in connection with the Pharmally scandal. 

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla explained that the cases would be reviewed again to ensure they would be “ready for trial” before being refiled.

He noted that previous handling of the cases lacked coordination among the fact-finding, evaluation, preliminary investigation, and prosecution teams. 

“Everybody was in the dark. It was not working as a complete team. That should be a fully laid-out plan. It can’t be segmented, with one team not knowing what the other is doing,” Remulla said.

He added that withdrawing the cases would allow the anti-graft body to re-evaluate them and ensure that the work done by investigators and the Senate would not be wasted.

Previous investigations, including a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee probe from August 2021 to January 2022, found that Pharmally won contracts totaling P11.5 billion despite a paid-up capital of only P625,000. 

This was the largest single award of government COVID-19 supply contracts to a private company at the time. The contracts included 8,000 BGI real-time fluorescent RT-PCR test kits (P600 million); 2,000 A*Star Fortitude RT-PCR kits (P688 million); and 41,400 BGI RT-PCR kits (P2.877 billion).

Is anyone ever going to face the music over this debacle?