China-Phl relations celebrated at annual Christmas media party

Members of the media and distinguished guests gathered for a memorable evening at the 13th Manila Forum for China-Philippines Relations and the Annual Christmas Media Party on Wednesday, December 11, at Makati Shangri-La Hotel. The event, themed “Understanding China,” was jointly hosted by the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines and the Association for Philippines-China Understanding, […]


Tax refunds for tourists, big gains for economy

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto expressed confidence in the Philippines’ economic prospects for 2025, citing the newly signed Value-Added Tax (VAT) Refund Mechanism for Non-Resident Tourists Act as a catalyst for increased tourism and domestic spending. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act (RA) No. 12079 into law on December 9, introducing a VAT refund system […]


Drawing the line: Marcos honors historic map

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to draw inspiration from the Murillo Velarde 1734 Map, a historic artifact that underscores the country’s sovereignty. He received the original map during a ceremonial turnover at Malacañan Palace on December 6, 2024. “Let us not only admire the artistry of the masterpiece presented to us today, but […]


Global gold rush in October: Central banks buy, Phl sells

Global central banks recorded net gold purchases of 60 tons in October, the highest monthly total in 2024, according to the latest data from the World Gold Council (WGC). The surge in buying was led by India, Turkey, and Poland. In contrast, the Philippines emerged as a significant seller during the period, offloading approximately 5 […]


Chinese Embassy, FFCCCII deliver relief to Tondo fire victims

A team from the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines and Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) visited Isla Puting Bato in Tondo, Manila on Tuesday, December 3, to assist families devastated by a recent massive fire. During the visit, the group distributed 2,000 relief packages containing rice, clothing, and other […]


Gold mining boosts Phl economy, contributes $407-M in 2023

Gold mining continues to be a significant economic contributor in the Philippines, with the industry injecting over $407 million into the national economy in 2023, according to the latest data from the World Gold Council (WGC).  The Philippines, a key player in global gold production and home to major WGC members like B2Gold and OceanaGold, […]


Marcos lights up Christmas tree, calls for compassion

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Malacañan Palace on Sunday night, urging Filipinos to reflect on the true spirit of the season while the country continues its recovery efforts from recent natural disasters. “I ask all of you to hold a thought for those who are still recovering from the […]


Phl sets world record for largest simultaneous bamboo planting event

The Philippines has etched its name into the Guinness World Records for the most number of people planting bamboo simultaneously across multiple locations. This remarkable achievement was confirmed by Guinness World Records adjudicator Sonia Ushiriguchi on November 28, 2024, during the celebration of the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week organized by the Department of […]