With the cool weather leading to lower demand, electricity rates in the country’s Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) will remain low this month, according to the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP). Based on data from IEMOP, system-wide WESM rates were down by 14.3 percent to P2.96 per kilowatt-hour from P3.45 per kWh on a monthly basis, which …
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Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero advised newly appointed Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) President and CEO Dr. Edwin Mercado to avoid the missteps of his predecessor. Welcoming President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s decision to appoint Mercado, Escudero stressed the need for leadership that prioritizes the public’s healthcare needs. “It’s right to replace the PhilHealth [chief] because for the longest time, …
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By Tracy Cabrera The Restaurant Owners of the Philippines (Resto PH) has denounced the rampant use of fake persons-with-disability (PWD) identification cards to unlawfully claim discounts at restaurants and other establishments. In an Instagram statement, Resto PH President Eric Teng highlighted the “widespread abuse” of the PWD discount system, which he said places an unsustainable financial burden, especially on small, …
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The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has identified eight priority research and development (R&D) programs to drive national innovation. Launched on February 5 at Dusit Thani Manila, ELEV8PH: Pushing S&T Frontiers for National Development gathered industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers to discuss advancements in science and technology. DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Dr. Lea J. Buendia emphasized the …
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The impending impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte marks a critical juncture in Philippine politics. While impeachment is a constitutional mechanism designed to hold high-ranking officials accountable, its use must be weighed carefully to ensure it serves justice rather than political maneuvering. The charges against the Vice President—whether centered on alleged misuse of confidential funds, abuse of power, or other …
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In support of the declaration of national food emergency on rice by the Department of Agriculture (DA), Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II ordered all LTO regional directors and heads of law enforcement units to provide assistance on cargo trucks delivering rice supply across the country. Asec. Mendoza explained that the LTO assistance is …
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Lawmakers and a transport leader called for the regulation of the Transport Network Vehicle System (TNVS) industry during a media forum in Quezon City on February 4. House Deputy Majority Leader Cong. Jose ‘Bong’ Teves Jr. supported a proposal for a law regulating TNVS, emphasizing that such legislation should not be affected by leadership changes at the LTFRB. Teves also …
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The Department of Agriculture (DA) has assured the public that steps are being taken to prevent a potential egg shortage and price surge in the second quarter of the year. The anticipated supply issue stems from last year’s oversupply, which led to a sharp drop in egg prices and significant losses for local producers. As a result, many were forced …
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The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has issued a stern warning against individuals aiding foreign spies in the country, vowing to take legal action against them for violating Philippine laws. BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said they are working closely with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to gather intelligence on suspected foreign spies, including …
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The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has reaffirmed its commitment to assisting workers displaced by Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs), formerly known as Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said the government remains dedicated to supporting these workers by organizing career fairs and providing livelihood opportunities. He noted that DOLE’s National Capital Region office regularly holds job …
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The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business