President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. considers declaring a national food emergency to lower escalating rice prices in the Philippines. The Department of Agriculture may implement measures next week to stabilize market conditions. This announcement highlights food security as a priority amid rising costs, aiming to ensure rice affordability and accessibility for all Filipinos.
The Philippines is witnessing a worrying rise in teenage pregnancies, with a 6.6% increase in live births among girls under 15 years old. The Commission on Population and Development calls for enhanced educational programs and better access to contraceptives and healthcare services for adolescents.
USAID confirms the Philippines remains a main recipient of U.S. aid under President Trump. Focus on health, education, and disaster preparedness ensures the ongoing partnership between the two nations.
President Marcos directs DOH to maintain PhilHealth services for nonpaying members amid the absence of a government subsidy in the 2025 budget. The DOH is tasked with finding solutions to ensure continuous healthcare services for vulnerable populations. PhilHealth’s financial stability and sustainability remain a focus amid ongoing challenges.
The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) peace rally in Manila attracted nearly 1.8 million participants, showcasing the group’s organizational strength. The event highlighted themes of unity ahead of the Philippines’ midterm elections, drawing attention to INC’s potential influence in the political arena.
The Philippine government is set to impose a maximum suggested retail price of ₱58 per kilo on imported rice. This measure, announced by the Department of Agriculture, will initially affect Metro Manila starting January 20. The decision follows extensive consultations and aims to regulate the market effectively.
A Muntinlupa court grants Vic Sotto’s habeas data petition, challenging the use of his information in a film promotion. Director Darryl Yap is ordered to respond.
The Philippine government budget for 2026 is expected to rise to P6.793 trillion, marking a 7.38% increase from 2023’s budget of P6.326 trillion, as forecasted by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
The Philippines concluded 2024 with dollar reserves over $100 billion for a second straight year, as reported by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The reserves, comprising foreign currency holdings, government securities, gold, and IMF positions, underline the country’s robust financial standing and economic resilience.
Labor unions in the Philippines are urging the government to pause the increase in SSS member contributions, emphasizing worker welfare and legal obligations. This highlights ongoing discussions about balancing social security funding and worker burdens, with the government asked to play a supportive role.