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 […]


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 […]


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 […]



VP Sara defies House orders to leave, starts camp-out

Vice President Sara Duterte was asked to leave the House of Representatives premises on Thursday night after visiting her chief-of-staff, Atty. Zuleika Lopez. However, she declined the request from House officials to vacate the area. The Vice President said she was prepared to remain “indefinitely” in the office of her brother, Davao City Rep. Paolo […]


Chelsea Manalo crowned first-ever Miss Universe Asia

Philippine candidate Chelsea Anne Manalo made history at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, earning the first-ever Miss Universe Asia 2024 title despite falling short of the semifinals. In a press conference following the event, Manalo was recognized alongside the other continental titleholders: Finland’s Matilda Wirtavuori (Miss Universe Europe and the Middle East), Peru’s Tatiana Calmell […]


China sets baselines for Huangyan Dao, following Phl’s new maritime laws

China has officially announced the baselines for the territorial sea adjacent to Huangyan Dao (Scarborough Shoal), asserting its longstanding claim over the disputed area in the South China Sea. The move, which was outlined by a Foreign Ministry spokesperson, is framed as a legal step to reinforce China’s maritime management in the region. According to […]