The Philippine Statistics Authority reveals ischemic heart diseases, neoplasms, and cerebrovascular diseases as the top causes of death from January to August 2024. The data shows trends in public health and mortality rates in the Philippines.
Palawan, a province in the Philippines renowned for its rich biodiversity, has enacted a 50-year ban on new mining permits, a decision with unanimous local support. This move reflects a commitment to preserving the island’s natural heritage amid concerns about environmental degradation from mining activities. While environmentalists applaud the decision, some in the mining sector worry about potential economic impacts. The moratorium aligns with global trends towards sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of ecological conservation over economic interests.
The recent collapse of the Sta. Maria-Cabagan bridge in Isabela province has been attributed to structural deficiencies, according to initial findings by the Department of Public Works and Highways. Malacañang has committed to holding those responsible accountable. The incident has raised concerns about infrastructure safety across the Philippines.
Five Chinese nationals have been arrested in Isabela, Philippines, for illegal mining as part of the government’s crackdown on unregulated foreign workers. The Bureau of Immigration is actively enforcing regulations to protect local economies and the environment. These arrests are part of broader efforts to address illegal operations, ensuring compliance with immigration and labor laws.
The head of the Philippine National Police’s Anti-Kidnapping Group has been relieved from duty as an investigation begins into the rescue operation of a Chinese teenager. The move comes in response to public scrutiny regarding the methods used in the operation.
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.
The Communities Aligning Baguio and San Antonio, Texas (CABSAT) delegation participated in the Panagbenga 2025 Parade this February, marking another milestone in the ongoing relationship between Baguio City and its sister city, San Antonio, Texas.
Three individuals were arrested in Batangas City for selling smuggled frozen fish products. The operation, conducted by the NBI, led to the seizure of 100 boxes of fish following a tip-off about illegal sales. The arrests emphasize ongoing efforts to combat smuggling in the Philippines.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) urges banks to accept dirty, defaced, and mutilated currency from the public, ensuring all citizens have access to financial services. This directive aims to streamline currency exchanges without additional fees and promote consistent practices among banks. The BSP emphasizes the importance of maintaining a reliable currency system, regardless of banknote condition, and encourages the public to report non-compliance.
The Philippines marks a milestone in international trade with its first frozen durian shipment to China, valued at ₱8.2 million. Davao City-based Maylong Enterprises Corp. spearheaded this export to Nansha District. The endeavor highlights the nation’s expanding agricultural reach by tapping into China’s vast consumer base, signifying promising growth opportunities for local producers in the global market. The move aligns with the Philippine government’s strategy to enhance trade relations with China, potentially paving the way for increased revenue and future collaborations within the agricultural sector.