February 2025

PhilHealth raises coverage limits for heart procedures

PhilHealth has improved its coverage for heart procedures, including open heart surgeries and heart valve repairs, reaching nearly P1 million and up to P810,000, respectively. This move aims to increase healthcare affordability and accessibility for patients with cardiovascular diseases in the Philippines. The enhancements are expected to alleviate financial burdens and improve health outcomes, aligning with the government’s strategy to provide better healthcare services for Filipinos. The implementation is part of PhilHealth’s broader efforts to meet international health insurance standards.

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Houston City Council sets up fund for homelessness, Mayor Whitmire pushes outdoor sleeping ban

Houston City Council introduces the “Initiative to End Street Homelessness Fund” to address homelessness, aligning with Mayor John Whitmire’s effort to ban outdoor sleeping. This move aims to remove homeless individuals from public spaces by establishing a dedicated fund to support these initiatives in Houston. Explore the details of this proposal and its implications for the city’s homelessness strategy.

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Texas House sees narrow support for voucher bill

The Texas House of Representatives is reviewing House Bill 3, a school voucher proposal permitting public funds for private schooling. With 75 Republican co-sponsors, the bill narrowly meets the vote threshold for passage. Backed by Governor Abbott, the bill faces opposition over concerns about its impact on public education funding. This legislative effort reflects the state’s commitment to expanding educational choice while balancing public and private sector needs. The bill’s outcome may influence similar debates nationwide.

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PVL player Michele Gumabao, Aldo Panlilio say “I do”

Michele Gumabao, a well-known volleyball player, married Aldo Panlilio at the National Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Makati. The ceremony took place on Tuesday, with Gumabao wearing a gown designed by Jaggy Glarino. The event was attended by family, friends, and members of the volleyball community, marking a significant moment in her personal life. The couple exchanged vows in a celebration filled with love and joy. Discover more about this heartwarming occasion and how it unfolded.

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Delta plane hit by lightning during flight over Seattle, reports say

A Delta Air Lines flight was reportedly struck by lightning over Seattle, sparking interest in the frequency of such events in aviation. Experts explain that commercial planes are designed to withstand lightning with minimal risk. With advancements in technology, aircraft are equipped with protection systems that ensure passenger safety. The incident underlines the aviation industry’s commitment to safety, as authorities assure the public of robust protocols in place to handle such events.

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Trump backs Elon Musk, DOGE in first Cabinet meeting

President Donald Trump held his first Cabinet meeting, discussing topics from national security and economic strategies to international relationships. Notably, the President commented on Elon Musk’s influence in technology and the cryptocurrency Dogecoin, acknowledging their growing impact. Topics also included infrastructure, healthcare, job creation, and diplomatic strategies, laying the groundwork for the administration’s future policy direction.

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Hontiveros hints Pogo bosses may still be in PH

Senator Risa Hontiveros suggests high-ranking Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogo) officials may still be in the country, linked to continued illegal operations. Her comments urge a deeper investigation into the persistence of unauthorized gaming hubs despite government crackdowns. The situation highlights broader issues within the Pogo industry, including tax evasion, labor violations, and human trafficking concerns, challenging regulatory bodies and emphasizing the need for transparency and rigorous law enforcement.

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