The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) First Philippine Polymer Banknote Series (FPPBS) has won the “Best New Banknote or Banknote Series” award from the International Association of Currency Affairs (IACA). In a statement released last week, the BSP said the award was conferred during a ceremony held in Bangkok, Thailand on May 28. IACA cited the FPPBS for its cutting-edge …

The Department of Finance (DOF) assured that the government is effectively managing the national debt it inherited from the previous administration by sustaining strong economic growth and implementing prudent fiscal policies. In a statement released Thursday, the DOF said the P16.75 trillion national debt as of end-April 2025 remains relatively low compared to other Asian economies. Japan tops the list …

The Bank of the Philippines Islands (BPI) announced that the reduced P10 fee for InstaPay inter-bank transfers via the BPI app and online platform will now be a permanent feature. This move aims to make digital financial services more affordable and accessible for customers. Previously, BPI had cut the InstaPay fee from P25 to P10 as a promotional offer to …

President Marcos recently inspected Terminal 3 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), noticing the significant improvements at the airport. The President cited several enhancements such as new facilities for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). “The best way is to go and look for myself. Tiningnan ko at masasabi ko naman na marami na rin talaga na tayong naging pagbabago. I’m …

Initiative to help families and promote quality time President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., accompanied by the First Lady and their three sons, launched the Pamilya Pass 1+3 promo for Metro Manila’s three railway lines every Sunday, an initiative intended to help families and promote quality time. The President said the Pamilya Pass 1+3 in all Metro Manila rail lines will allow …

According to a recent list released by “US News & World Report,” Palawan is “#1 in World’s Best Islands to Visit for 2025.” According to the report, the ranking was based on numerous island-hopping options to explore, serene beaches for lounging around, and the marine life you can spot when on a snorkeling tour. Palawan beat 23 other top-notch island …

Summer might be on the way out, but the yearning for adventure persists both for people who love chasing the sun and those who prefer staying indoors. Both camps have their ways of making the most of summer and creating new core memories without having to travel overseas. For the outdoor-inclined, it’s hard to resist the call of adventure. Exploring …

Scientists from the UP Diliman-College of Science conducted the first detailed microbial genomic study of a submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) site in Mabini, Batangas, and  uncovered the potential roles of microorganisms in medical applications and biotechnology, a UPD-CS press release said. SGD occurs when groundwater from land seeps into the ocean, transporting freshwater, nutrients, metals, and even pollutants into marine …

BEYOND ELLIPTICAL By Rose Marie de la Cruz I completely agree with the Federation of Free Farmers in calling for a leadership change at the Departments of Agriculture, Agrarian Reform and Labor and Employment. Clearly, these agencies have fallen short of their targets and commitments. In a statement, the Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) called on President Marcos Jr. to …

The Makati Business Club urged the government to invest more in farm infrastructure like irrigation, drying and storage facilities than subsidizing rice, which would bring down rice prices to P20 per kilogram. Infrastructure investment is more sustainable and efficient than subsidizing rice prices, MBC Chairman Edgar O. Chua told reporters emphasizing that the key is to reduce farmer reliance on …