A news and information service for Filipino seafarers sponsored by the All Japan Seamen's Union, International Mariners Management Association of Japan and Philippine-Japan Manning Consultative Council, Inc.
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January 26, 2024
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HEADLINES
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World's Largest Iceberg Drifts Slowly Towards South Georgia
AI is Empowering Shipowners to Tackle New Safety Management Challenges
No rice shortage amid plans to declare food security emergency
DA sees pork supply recovering in 2-3 weeks
Retail price growth in NCR picks up in December
Philippines one of ASEAN’S fastest-growing economies – AMRO
PAGASA: ‘Above-normal’ rainfall likely until April due to La Niña conditions
Miss Supermodel Worldwide 2024 Thea Casuncad on qualities of a winning queen
Lea Salonga to be honored at 91st Drama League awards
Dimples Romana shares insights on raising her children
MPBL cancels preseason tourney
Ichiro becomes first Japanese elected to MLB Hall of Fame
FULL NEWSPAPER
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
US to leave World Health Organization on Jan. 22, 2026, says UN
UNITED NATIONS, January 26 ------ The United States will leave the World Health Organization (WHO) on Jan. 22, 2026, the United Nations said, after being formally notified of the decision by President Donald Trump, who has accused the agency of mishandling the pandemic and other international health crises.
Trump announced the move on Monday, hours after he was sworn in for a second four-year term. The WHO said on Tuesday that it regretted the move from its top donor country. Trump must give a one-year notice of U.S. withdrawal from the Geneva-based body and pay Washington's dues under a 1948 joint resolution of the U.S. Congress.
The United States is by far the WHO's biggest financial backer, contributing around 18% of its overall funding. WHO's most recent two-year budget, for 2024-2025, was $6.8 billion. It was not immediately clear how much the U.S. owes. "I can confirm we have now received the U.S. letter on the WHO withdrawal. It is dated 22 January 2025. It would take effect a year from yesterday, on 22 January 2026," said deputy U.N. spokesperson Farhan Haq.
The U.S. departure will likely put at risk programs across the organization, according to several experts inside and outside the WHO, notably those tackling tuberculosis, the world’s biggest infectious disease killer, as well as HIV/AIDS and other health emergencies. The withdrawal order signed by Trump said the administration would cease negotiations on the WHO pandemic treaty while the withdrawal is in progress. U.S. government personnel working with the WHO will be recalled and reassigned, and the government will look for partners to take over necessary WHO activities, according to the order. Trump's withdrawal from the WHO was not unexpected. He took steps to quit the body in 2020 during his first term as president. Before the U.S. withdrawal could be completed last time, Joe Biden won the presidential election and put a stop to it on his first day in office on Jan. 20, 2021.
Source: gmanetwork.com
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GENEVA, January 26 ------ Saving the world's shrinking glaciers is a "survival strategy" for the planet, the UN said, a day after President Donald Trump announced the US would withdraw from the Paris climate accord. United Nations agencies launched an appeal to scale up efforts to rescue the world's 275,000 glaciers, which are rapidly melting away as the planet warms.
The UN's educational, scientific and cultural agency UNESCO, and its World Meteorological Organization (WMO) weather, climate and water agency, pointed to the essential role these giant ice masses play, providing fresh water to more than two billion people globally. "The preservation of glaciers is essential for our ecosystems, our economies and our planetary health," the WMO's deputy chief Ko Barrett said as the agencies launched the International Year of Glaciers' Preservation. "Urgent and sustained reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are vital," she told the gathering in Geneva. "But unfortunately we are heading in the wrong direction as levels of carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping greenhouse gases continue to rise."
The world's glaciers currently cover approximately 700,000 square kilometers (270,000 square miles). Glaciers and ice sheets play a crucial role in regulating the global climate and store approximately 70 percent of the world's fresh water, which is essential for billions of people, the agencies said.
Survival strategy
"Preserving our glaciers is therefore not just an environmental issue," Barrett said. "It is a survival strategy for both people and the planet." But from the Alps to the Himalayas, these resources are melting away at an increasing pace under the effect of man-made climate change, sparked essentially by greenhouse gas emissions. Tuesday's launch came after Trump announced he was withdrawing the United States — the world's second-largest emitter after China — from the Paris Agreement. Critics warn that the move undermines global cooperation on reducing fossil fuel use and could embolden major polluters like China and India to weaken their commitments. Global average temperatures already hit record highs in 2024, while over the past two years they temporarily surpassed a critical 1.5 degrees Celsius warming threshold for the first time.
In 2023, glaciers suffered their largest volume loss in five decades, according to WMO. "Counterfactual industries and regimes around the world would deny" climate change, John Pomeroy, a professor at Canada's Saskatchewan University, told Tuesday's event. But they "cannot deny their culpability in the destruction of glaciers that is occurring before our eyes," he said.
Really dramatic
"Glaciers don't care if we believe in science. They just melt in the heat." Pomeroy warned that "restoring glaciers will take decades." To do so would require "urgent policy changes" and "expanding measurements" to swiftly detect changes and provide early warnings of droughts and floods. Stefan Uhlenbrook, head of the WMO's hydrology, water and cryosphere unit, described the situation as "really dramatic." Fifty UNESCO World Heritage sites are home to glaciers. But the agency has warned that the ice masses were expected to disappear from a third of these sites by 2050, regardless of efforts to limit temperature rise. UNESCO estimates that the remainder can still be saved, but only if long-term average global temperatures do not rise by more than 1.5C above pre-industrial levels.
Source: manilatimes.net
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MARITIME NEWS
World's Largest Iceberg Drifts Slowly Towards South Georgia
January 26 ------ The world's largest iceberg is slowing heading towards the island of South Georgia, where it may have serious effects on local wildlife. Iceberg A23a is so big that it is hard to visualize: at 1.1 million acres in area, it is about 75 times larger than Manhattan (and shrinking). For now, it measures about 40 nautical miles by 32 nautical miles on a side, and it weighs about one trillion tons. Its sheer sides tower more than 1,300 feet above the water, and chunks regularly break off in the waves.
The berg's arrival has been a long time coming. A23a broke off of Antarctica's Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf in 1986, and began to drift off into the Weddell Sea (taking a Soviet research base with it). It ran aground almost immediately, and stayed anchored to the bottom until 2020, when it finally refloated and began to drift to the northwest. It took three years to reach the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, and finally reached the Antarctic Circumpolar Current in April 2024. This was expected to shuttle the iceberg northeast into the Atlantic, where it would melt in warmer waters.
However, A23a stalled in the South Orkney Islands for much of 2024. Oceanographers say that it was likely caught in a Taylor Column - a rotating cylindrical current found above a rise on the bottom. It kicked loose from this spinning water trap late last year and drifted away towards South Georgia, which is now about 180 miles away.
When it finally breaks up, the iceberg will pose a hazard to the area's sparse vessel traffic - primarily fishermen - and may block in the rugged beaches of South Georgia, home to King penguins and seals. The last megaberg that reached the island broke up in 2023, and its remains still make a mess of commercial navigation. Fishing vessels operating near South Georgia have to negotiate a shifting city of giant ice blocks to get to and from their fishing grounds. "It is in bits from the size of several Wembley stadiums down to pieces the size of your desk," Andrew Newman of fishing company Argos Froyanes told BBC.
The ice can also make it harder for penguins and seals to access the water from their breeding grounds on shore. Mark Belchier, director of fisheries and environment for the government of South Georgia, told CNN that any impact on wildlife from beach obstructions would be "highly localized and transient."
Source: maritime-executive.com
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Maritime Education Starts With Local Action
January 26 ------ Over 400 years ago, Jamestown was founded, chosen for its deep waters and defensible position—an ideal seaport. Today, our region thrives as a maritime hub, home to commercial, private, and military vessels that benefit from our central location, extensive waterways, and the bounty of the ocean.
The Problem: A Decline in Maritime Workforce
Despite this rich maritime history, our seafaring future faces significant challenges. Fewer young people are entering the maritime industry as high school students and young adults seek careers in other fields. A project manager at a major local shipyard described the situation succinctly: “Attrition at the shipyard is essentially one-for-one.” The average age of a shipyard worker? Fifty-five years old.
The trend isn’t limited to shipyards. Enrollment at the nation’s six maritime academies has dropped dramatically, from 7,350 students in 2017 to 5,918 in 2023—a 20% decline. Unlimited license track graduates fell from 1,086 in 2017 to just 813 in 2023.
This isn’t just a shipyard problem. Licensed mariners serve as the backbone of America’s maritime infrastructure. They pilot vessels through challenging waterways, enforce safety standards with organizations like the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), and shape maritime policy with the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD). They also provide essential logistical support through entities like Military Sealift Command (MSC). Yet all these roles are now competing for the same shrinking pool of skilled professionals.
At a recent discussion with leaders in the offshore, shipyard, and private maritime sectors at Old Dominion University, one sentiment was clear: “We used to receive skilled mariners, but now we have to train them. After completing our apprenticeship program, many leave for higher-paying industries.” The issue isn’t money—it’s a workforce shortage. Across every facet of the maritime industry, we’re all vying for the same limited number of skilled workers.
The Solution Starts at Home
On a recent walk with my 16-year-old son, we discussed career paths. Living in Hampton Roads, he’s had access to incredible opportunities—learning to sail in the open ocean out of Norfolk, building a wooden boat at Tidewater Wooden Boat Workshop, and studying in Grassfield High School’s Governor’s STEM program.
Reflecting on the region’s maritime potential, I shared with him the opportunities a maritime career offers. A fresh graduate from a maritime academy can start as a Third Assistant Engineer, earning over $100,000 annually. With commitment and a few license upgrades, they could become a Chief Engineer in as little as five years, earning more than $200,000 annually while working a schedule of three months on, three months off. Beyond the financial rewards, the industry fosters leadership, critical thinking, and a deep connection to the natural world.
My son recently applied to—and was accepted by—one of the nation’s maritime academies. While I’m proud of his achievement, I can’t help but wonder: why isn’t this the norm in Virginia?
Why Not Virginia?
Virginia has no maritime academy of its own, nor is it a primary supplier of maritime professionals. This is especially striking given the role of the Port of Virginia, which handles over 65.6 million tons of cargo annually, contributes $56.9 billion in labor income, and directly supports more than 33,000 ship repair and building jobs. Our region is uniquely positioned to produce the next generation of maritime leaders who will drive American commerce, defense, and the maritime economy. But we need to inspire and guide our youth toward these opportunities.
A Call to Action
We can and must do better. By investing in maritime education and encouraging young talent to explore this vital field, we can secure the legacy of Hampton Roads as a maritime powerhouse. Whether through the creation of a Virginia maritime academy or by expanding access to existing programs, the time to act is now. To the readers of Hampton Roads: join the ranks of one of America’s most vital and often overlooked industries. Let’s prepare the next generation to lead the ships and ports that have shaped our history—and will shape our future.
Source: maritime-executive.com
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AI is Empowering Shipowners to Tackle New Safety Management Challenges
January 26 ------ The maritime industry is undergoing a digital transformation, and one of the key innovations making waves is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into safety management systems.
The increased documentation required following the gamut of new rules and procedures place increasing demands on seafarers but companies like WiseStella are leveraging artificial intelligence to ease the cognitive burden to enhance safety across the global fleet. "Seafarers today are faced with an overwhelming amount of information and documentation to manage," explains Ali Demiral, Chief Technology Officer, and AI lead at WiseStella. "This cognitive load can be a significant source of stress, especially when it comes to tackling complex safety assessments. But AI-powered technology can provide seafarers and ship managers with the tools they need to navigate these new requirements with confidence."
WiseStella's AI solution, dubbed "Wise-AI," taps into the power of large language models (LLM) to analyze vast troves of historical data from past safety inspections. By identifying common issues and potential root causes, the development, which is being incorporated across WiseStella’s suite of cloud-based solutions, provides seafarers with tailored recommendations and insights, even if they're unfamiliar with the intricacies of the regulations.
"Imagine a scenario where a second engineer is tasked with completing a self-assessment, for example," Demiral illustrates. "They may come across a question about the vessel's processes, unsure of whether current practices are 'as expected' or not. With the introduction of Wise-AI, they can simply input the details, and the system will suggest potential problem areas and offer guidance on how to address them."
This proactive approach not only helps seafarers save time and reduce stress levels, but it also fosters a deeper understanding of safety protocols. By learning from the AI's insights, crew members can better anticipate and mitigate issues, enhancing the overall safety of the vessel. But the benefits of WiseStella's AI-based learning extend beyond individual vessels. The platform also provides fleet-wide benchmarking capabilities, allowing managers to compare their vessels' performance against industry standards. "Suddenly, fleet managers have the ability to identify areas where their vessels are excelling or falling behind, empowering them to make data-driven decisions and target their training and resources more effectively,” Demiral says.
Interestingly, WiseStella's AI technology has been developed in-house by a team of data scientists, setting it apart from off-the-shelf solutions. This custom-built approach allows the company to continuously refine and improve the algorithms, ensuring that the system's predictions become more accurate and relevant over time.
However, AI outputs are always reviewed by academics and experts before the information is presented in the WiseStella platform. “Physical assessment of the findings with ‘human-in-the-loop’ analysis helps improve information outputs,” says Demiral, “as AI continually learns from the additional input and recommendations to provide the optimum solutions. The more data we collect, the better our AI becomes at identifying patterns and providing meaningful insights," Demiral explains. "It's a continuous learning process, and we're committed to staying ahead of the curve to support our clients' evolving needs."
One of the key advantages of Wise Stella's AI-powered platform is its ability to leverage data from a variety of sources, including industry reports and published research. By aggregating and anonymizing this information, the system can provide a comprehensive view of common issues and best practices across the maritime sector. "We're not just relying on the data we collect from our own clients," Demiral clarifies. "We also incorporate insights from various guidance published by professional bodies and organization ensuring that our recommendations are grounded in the broader industry context. This helps us deliver more robust and reliable solutions to our users."
As the maritime industry continues to navigate the uncharted waters of new safety regulations, the integration of AI-powered tools like Wise-AI into the WiseStella platform is poised to become a crucial lifeline for seafarers. By reducing cognitive stress, enhancing safety awareness, and providing data-driven insights, these innovative solutions are paving the way for a more resilient and efficient future at sea. "The ultimate goal is to empower our clients to proactively address safety challenges, rather than simply reacting to them," Demiral says. "With Wise-AI, we're giving seafarers the tools they need to anticipate and mitigate issues, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and safety excellence."
As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the role of AI in safety management is only set to grow. Companies like WiseStella are at the forefront of this digital transformation, leveraging cutting-edge technology to support the people who keep our global supply chains moving. By easing the burden on seafarers and providing data-driven insights, these AI-powered solutions are poised to become indispensable in the years to come.
Source: maritime-executive.com
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PHILIPPINE NEWS
PH welcomes Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal
January 26 ------ The Philippine government welcomed the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, putting an end to the 15-month conflict in Gaza. “The Philippines welcomes the announcement of the long-awaited ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas and the release of hostages in Gaza,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
The accord between the two parties reportedly outlines a six-week initial ceasefire phase and includes the gradual withdrawal of Israeli Defense Forces from the Gaza strip. The phased deal will also include the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. “The Philippines calls upon all parties to adhere to their obligations under international law, with particular emphasis on the protection of civilians, especially women and children, and the facilitation of humanitarian assistance to all those in need,” the DFA added. “The Philippines reaffirms its steadfast commitment to a two-state solution that addresses the rights and needs of both Palestinian and Israeli civilians, with the aim of achieving a just, lasting peace and security in the region.”
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in 2023 said the Philippine government stands with the Israeli government amid its war against the extremist group.
Source: gmanetwork.com
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No rice shortage amid plans to declare food security emergency
MANILA, January 26 ------ The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Saturday clarified that there is no rice supply shortage amid plans to declare a food security emergency. “We just would like reiterate: There is no shortage in the supply of rice in the country,” DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa stressed in Quezon City.
He noted that Republic Act 12078, which amended the Rice Tariffication Law, cites two main grounds for the DA Secretary to declare a food security emergency: Shortage in supply and extraordinary increase in the price of rice. “The first main basis, lack of supply, it does not exist because we have a lot of supply. So, the only basis is your extraordinary increase in price,” De Mesa explained. “We know that many initiatives have been taken by the government, the DA and the DTI (Department of Trade and Industry), to lower the price. First of all, the imposition of EO (Executive Order) 62 which reduces the tariff from 35 percent to 15 percent, there is also our program in Kadiwa and what else has been mentioned by our President. Despite all of these, rice prices remain elevated although we feel a decrease, but not to the level that we are expecting it to decrease,” he said.
Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. earlier said the DA will declare a “food security emergency for rice” before the end of January to address the spiking retail prices. This came after the National Price Coordinating Council approved a resolution urging the DA to declare the emergency as prices remain high despite declining global rice costs and tariff reductions ordered by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. As of Jan. 16, the price of imported and local regular and well-milled rice ranges from PHP37 to PHP53 per kilo in Metro Manila; while imported and local premium and special rice range from PHP48 to PHP65 per kilo, according to the DA Bantay-Presyo (price watch).
De Mesa said high rice price is also one of the reasons why the DA is asking Congress to return the mandate on importation to the National Food Authority (NFA), "especially on two things: first, regarding regulation; second, the market intervention." "The secretary is no longer asking Congress for permission in relation to the importation capacity of the NFA, but rather on these two aspects. For that, to have regulation in the market and secondly, to intervene in the market without declaring an emergency,” he said.
De Mesa said the DA is also looking at classifying rice importation. “We are looking at it but if you really look at your classification, at least for the imported rice, there is no premium or special. It is based on the degree of brokenness of the rice we import, again, 5 percent, 25 percent, 100 percent. In between you have 15 percent from time to time. So, your price when you get rice from Thailand, Vietnam, India, Pakistan or wherever, you always base it on percent of brokenness,” he said.
Laurel previously said he would propose the imposition of hybrid tariff on rice as part of efforts to lower prices.
Source: pna.gov.ph
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Filipino tourists need to submit Japanese visa application two months before trip - embassy
January 26 ------ The Japanese Embassy in Manila has advised Filipino tourists going to Japan to submit their visa application at least two months prior to their trip. In an advisory, the embassy said it is due to the rapidly increasing number of visitors from the Philippines. "Examination of visa applications for tourism purposes may take several weeks longer than the standard processing time," it said. "Therefore, we highly recommend for applicants to please apply at least two months prior to the date of travel," it added.
Japan has become one of the top tourist destinations for Filipinos, largely due to its cool weather that Filipinos love. In fact, Japan saw "breaking records" after at least 87,100 Filipinos visited the Land of the Rising Sun in November 2024. It was a 37 percent increase from last year, according to the embassy, marking "the highest growth rate of tourists from an ASEAN country in this period of time." "Hoping our Philippines friends enjoyed their stay and see you next time you," the embassy said.
Source: mb.com.ph
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DA sees pork supply recovering in 2-3 weeks
MANILA, January 26 ------ The supply of pork in the country may recover in the next three weeks, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said Thursday amid the spiking prices of pork in Metro Manila. “Normally kasi galing tayo ng Christmas season, ang laki ng consumption. Ngayon, bumagsak ang consumption, naubos din iyong supply ng kaunti,” DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in an ambush interview.
As of Wednesday, the prices of pork liempo in Metro Manila range from PHP370 per kilogram to PHP450/kg; while kasim range from PHP330/kg to PHP400/kg, according to the DA Bantay Presyo (price watch). “Sa tingin ko, by two to three weeks, rarami na uli ang supply,” he said.
The DA chief assured that there was no supply shortage, but recognized the effects of African swine fever (ASF) in the swine industry. “Population ng swine natin before was 14 million to 15 million heads. Now, it’s down to 7 million heads,” Tiu Laurel said.
As of Dec. 27, 2024, the number of red zones or barangays with active ASF cases has dropped to 225 from 365 on Dec. 6.
Source: pna.gov.ph
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5 underwater drones recovered in various PH areas in 2024
MANILA, January 26 ------ Five underwater drones were recovered in various parts of the Philippines in 2024, the Philippine Navy said. Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said two of the drones were recovered off Calayan Island in the Babuyan Group of Islands; one in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte; one in Initao, Misamis Oriental; and the most recent discovery in San Pascual, Masbate last December. “We have already recovered 5 of these. They were given to us by our fishermen,” Trinidad told reporters in a press conference in Manila.
The official said the devices were “difficult to detect” when underwater but are visible when on the surface. The drones underwent forensic analysis, which takes six to eight weeks. So far, only one of the drones recovered in Calayan Island yielded results. “These are designed to gather bathymetric data, specifically depth, salinity, oxygen level, temperature of the water. This information could have commercial value, academic value, and also military purposes and applications,” he said.
Following the recovery of the underwater drones, the Philippine Navy committed to ensuring the safety and security of the country’s maritime domain.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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Retail price growth in NCR picks up in December
MANILA, Philippines, January 26 ------ Retail price growth of goods in Metro Manila rose in December 2024 from the previous month due mainly to the slower decline in fuel prices, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. Data released by the PSA showed that the General Retail Price Index (GRPI) growth in the National Capital Region (NCR) increased to 1.5 percent in December last year from the previous month’s 1.4 percent.
The December 2024, GRPI growth, however, is slower compared to the 2.9 percent uptick in the same month in 2023. The GRPI tracks changes in prices at which retailers sell their goods to consumers relative to a base year. It is used in monitoring retail trade and in forecasting business in the sector. “The primary contributor to the uptrend in the annual growth rate of GRPI in NCR was the slower annual decrease registered in the index of mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials at 0.3 percent in December 2024 from three percent annual decline in the previous month,” the PSA said.
Two commodity groups also contributed to the uptrend in GRPI as these registered higher increases in December from the previous month. In particular, beverages and tobacco posted a 3.9-percent increase in December from 3.6 percent in November. Manufactured goods classified chiefly by materials saw a 1.5 percent uptick in December from 1.3 percent in the previous month. On the other hand, slower increases were observed in the following commodity groups in December from the previous month: food (1.9 percent from two percent); crude materials, inedible except fuels (0.7 percent from 1.1 percent); machinery and transport equipment (0.2 percent from 0.3 percent); and miscellaneous manufactured articles (1.4 percent from 1.5 percent)
Meanwhile, the chemicals sector, including animal and vegetable oils and fats, retained its previous month’s growth rate of 2.5 percent in December. Average GRPI growth in NCR slowed to 1.8 percent last year from 4.5 percent in 2023, driven primarily by food prices. “The primary contributor to the downtrend in the annual average growth rate of GRPI was the slower annual average increase recorded in the index of food at 2.4 percent in 2024 from 8.2 percent in the previous year,” the PSA said.
In addition, six commodity groups had slower average growth rates last year compared to 2023. These are: beverages and tobacco (3.5 percent from 5.9 percent); crude materials, inedible except fuels (one percent from 4.8 percent); chemicals, including animal and vegetable oils and fats (2.4 percent from 3.2 percent); manufactured goods classified chiefly by materials (1.3 percent from 2.7 percent); machinery and transport equipment (0.5 percent from 1.4 percent); and miscellaneous manufactured articles (1.4 percent from 1.7 percent). Meanwhile, mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials recorded an average increase of 0.4 percent in 2024 from the 4.5 percent average decline in 2023.
Source: philstar.com
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Philippines one of ASEAN’S fastest-growing economies – AMRO
MANILA, Philippines, January 26 ------ The Philippines is expected to remain among the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia this year, according to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Plus 3 (ASEAN+3) Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO).
The January Update of the AMRO’s ASEAN+3 Regional Economic Outlook released yesterday showed the Philippine economy is projected to expand by 6.3 percent this year from an estimated growth of 5.8 percent in 2024. The forecasts are unchanged from those provided by AMRO last month. Should AMRO’s growth forecast for the Philippines for 2024 be realized, the country will have the second highest growth in Southeast Asia next to Vietnam, which is expected to have posted 7.1 percent growth last year.
AMRO’s 2025 growth forecast for the Philippines also places the country second to Vietnam, which is forecasted to grow by 6.5 percent this year. “The Philippines is one of the faster growing economies in the region,” AMRO chief economist Hoe Ee Khor said in a briefing yesterday. He said the Philippines is expected to expand at a faster pace this year from 2024 as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has started cutting interest rates to boost the economy. Last year, the central bank’s Monetary Board delivered a total of 75 basis points in rate cuts, bringing the benchmark policy rate to 5.75 percent.
While the Philippines is expected to be the second-fastest growing economy in ASEAN in 2024 and this year, AMRO’s growth forecasts are below the government’s growth targets. The Philippine government’s revised growth target for 2024 is six to 6.5 percent. For this year, the Philippine government is aiming for six to eight percent growth. From January to September last year, Philippine economic growth averaged 5.8 percent. Earlier, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said the Philippines likely missed its growth target last year citing the impact of the typhoons that hit the country.
The Philippine Statistics Authority is expected to report on the country’s 2024 economic performance later this month.
Source: philstar.com
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PAGASA: ‘Above-normal’ rainfall likely until April due to La Niña conditions
MANILA, January 26 ------ The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned on Wednesday, Jan. 22 that “above-normal” rainfall may persist in several areas until April, due to the ongoing La Niña conditions.
PAGASA Assistant Weather Services Chief Ana Liza Solis, who heads the Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section of the Climate and Agrometeorology Division, explained that the climate phenomenon increases the likelihood of heavy rainfall, which could lead to flooding, flash floods, and rain-induced landslides, particularly in vulnerable areas. Since September 2024, the country has experienced above-normal rainfall, accompanied by stronger-than-usual tropical cyclones—some reaching super typhoon strength—and more frequent cyclone formations. Solis added that the La Niña conditions are expected to persist through the February to April 2025 season, before transitioning to a neutral phase during the March to May 2025 period, when neither El Niño nor La Niña is present.
PAGASA’s forecast shows that most parts of the country will experience “near-to-above normal” rainfall from February to April. However, during this period, the western parts of Luzon may see “way below” to “below-normal” rainfall. For February, Solis said 67 provinces are expected to experience above-normal rainfall, while 14 provinces will have near-normal rainfall. Two provinces will see below-normal conditions, and one is expected to experience below-normal rainfall.
In March, 30 provinces may experience way above-normal rainfall, while 45 provinces may have above-normal precipitation, six with near-normal, and three with below-normal conditions. While April marks the transition from the northeast to the southwest monsoon, Solis pointed out that La Niña’s impact could still bring significant rainfall over parts of the country. Twenty provinces are expected to see way above-normal rainfall in April, 44 with above-normal conditions, 19 with near-normal rainfall, and one with below-normal precipitation.
Solis said that zero to one tropical cyclone may form in each of the months of February, March, and April. She explained that the peak of the northeast monsoon, locally known as “amihan,” which occurs in February, reduces the potential for cyclonic activity during the early part of the year. However, if a cyclone forms during these months, it is expected to be mostly rain-bearing due to La Niña conditions, rather than developing into a typhoon or super typhoon, which are more commonly observed in the last quarter of the year.
Source: mb.com.ph
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ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
Miss Supermodel Worldwide 2024 Thea Casuncad on qualities of a winning queen
January 26 ------ Reigning Miss Supermodel Worldwide titleholder Thea Casuncad believes that being humble is a character trait that a queen should have as it leaves a mark on the people around her. Being humble is what the Laguna-based beauty queen held close to her heart as she represented the Philippines in the global tilt held in India in May 2024. Her kind heart and efforts were fruitful as she eventually clinched the title. “Always be humble,” she told reporters on the sidelines of the national pageant’s media launch in Parañaque. “Hindi natin alam ang backgrounds ng iba’t ibang tao. Mas magtatatak ‘yun sa tao kapag humble ka (We don’t know people’s backgrounds so being humble leaves a mark on others).”
Casuncad is set to pass her national title at the Miss Supermodel Worldwide Philippines 2025 tilt on Saturday, January 24 at the Newport Performing Arts Theatre in Pasay. If she has the chance to decide on a winning queen, she will base it on a candidate’s humility and self-assurance. “Dapat humble lang. Kahit nakatingin tayo sa taas, dapat ang paa natin ay nasa lupa. Huwag panghinaan ng loob. [And] maging tapat sa sarili nila, ‘yun ang magdadala sa’yo sa international stage. Ang tiwala sa sarili mo, ang lakas ng loob mo, and ang pangarap mo,” she said.
When asked if she’s planning to pursue a career in showbiz, Casuncad said she is more open to being a print model and to appear in commercials. She is also not closing her doors on the possibility of competing in a bigger pageant in the future. “Hindi ko naman sinasarado ang pinto ko sa mga oportunidad when it comes to that,” she said of her pageant career. “Pero by next year, tatapusin ko muna ang pag-aaral ko. Hopefully, magkaroon ng opportunity to step on the bigger pageant stage.”
Casuncad, while touching on the Big Four pageants, said she hopes to compete on the Miss Universe stage in the future. “Mas open sila sa diversity and sa hinahanap sa mga candidates nila. Feel ko mas magfi-fit in ako to represent our country (They’re more open to diversity which can be seen in their candidates. I feel like I would fit in to represent our country in this pageant),” she said.
Source: inquirer.net
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Lea Salonga to be honored at 91st Drama League awards
January 26 ------ The Drama League, a theatrical association based in New York City, has announced its latest batch of honorees. The Philippines' Lea Salonga is among the esteemed luminaries to be celebrated at the 91st Annual Drama League Awards, set to take place on May 16 at the Ziegfeld Ballroom. She will receive the Distinguished Achievement in Musical Theater Award.
Salonga, a Tony and Olivier Award winner known for her groundbreaking roles in "Miss Saigon" and "Les Misérables," continues to shine as a global theater icon. The recognition highlights her contributions to musical theater. Theater fans couldn't hide their excitement over the announcement. One fan expressed their joy online, saying, "Lea Salonga to be honored by The Drama League," reflecting the pride of her supporters worldwide.
The Drama League Awards will also honor several other figures in the theater industry, including Whitney White, who will receive the Founders Award for Excellence in Directing. Robert Greenblatt and Neil Meron will be presented with the Gratitude Award for their remarkable contributions to the theater community. Kate Navin and Audible Theater will be recognized with the Contribution to the Theater Award, celebrating their innovative work in bringing theatrical productions to a wider audience.
As Salonga continues to make waves in the theater world, she is also set to star in Theatre Group Asia's upcoming production of Stephen Sondheim's "Into the Woods," premiering this August at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater. She will reprise the iconic role of The Witch, a character she first portrayed 30 years ago.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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Dimples Romana shares insights on raising her children
January 26 ------ Actress and host Dimples Romana recently took to social media to reflect on her experience raising her three children, sharing how she and her husband, Boyet Ahmee, have achieved their dreams as parents.
In an Instagram post, Dimples expressed gratitude for their children and the joy of watching them grow. "Yes, we’ve been blessed to give birth to and raise all gorgeous three,” Dimples wrote.
She added that one of her favorite aspects of parenting is seeing "tiny versions of ourselves" in her children as they develop their unique personalities. “One of my most favorite parts of being a parent is that we get the gift of getting to know tiny versions of ourselves, our kids growing up having their own ways and finding their own quirks and character as they grow older,” Dimples added.
Dimples described how her children, eldest Callie (21), second child Alonzo (9), and youngest Elio (2), each connect with her and Boyet in different ways. She noted that Callie’s special way of connecting is through thoughtful gestures. “She was born quiet, reserved but also fierce and deep. She loves hard but not through words, but via actions,” she shared.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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SPORTS NEWS
MPBL cancels preseason tourney
MANILA, Philippines, January 26 ------ The MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) has decided to scrap its preseason tournament this year for member teams to focus on shoring up their respective rosters for its 7th Season starting on March 8.
Last year's MPBL pocket invitational event was held February 21-27 at the Lagao Gymnasium in General Santos City, with the Pampanga Giant Lanterns emerging as champions. Pampanga swept its playoff opponents and became the league's first back-to-back national champions. MPBL commissioner Kenneth Duremdes said teams have until February 1 to confirm their participation in the 7th Season. The venue and pertinent details of the 10-month tournament will be known on or before February 8.
The entry of Ilagan City, Isabela, which will formalize its membership on February 1, and the return of Basilan, under new sponsor Starhorse Shipping Lines, are expected to swell further the MPBL family, 29 of which participated last year. With the departure of back-to-back Most Valuable Player Justine Baltazar, burly Brandon Ramirez, high-flyer MJ Garcia, crack guard Kurt Reyson, veteran Jeff Viernes and major contributor Encho Serrano from the Pampanga coop, a more balanced competition is foreseen in both the North and South Divisions. Quezon Province, last year's losing finalist, remains a strong contender in the South along with MPBL inaugural titlist Batangas City.
Former champions Nueva Ecija (2022) and San Juan (2019) are expected to crowd Pampanga at the top of the North Division together with rebuilding Abra.
Source: philstar.com
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Ichiro becomes first Japanese elected to MLB Hall of Fame
LOS ANGELES, United States, January 26 ------ Ichiro Suzuki, whose uncanny hitting talent made him a Seattle Mariners icon after he'd established himself as a star in Japan, became the first Japanese player elected to the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame. Ichiro headlines the 2025 Hall of Fame class to be enshrined at Cooperstown, New York, which also includes pitcher CC Sabathia and relief pitcher Billy Wagner.
Ichiro made his debut with the Mariners in 2001, becoming the first Japanese position player, as opposed to a pitcher, to play in the US major leagues. He won both American League Most Valuable Player and Rookie of the Year honors that year, going on to earn 10 All-Star nods, 10 Gold Glove awards and three Silver Slugger Awards. He finished his career with 3,089 hits in MLB -- on top of 1,278 he piled up in nine years in Japan. His 4,367 hits as a professional are the most of any player in baseball history. He amassed two batting titles, 1,420 runs and 509 stolen bases in more than 19 Major League seasons while expanding the horizons for Japanese players aiming to make the move Stateside when some still doubted that their skills would translate to MLB.
In 2004 Ichiro won his second batting title and broke George Sisler's 84-year-old record with 262 hits -- part of a stretch of 10 straight seasons with at least 200 hits. In his first year of eligibility, the 51-year-old Ichiro fell one ballot shy of unanimous election something achieved to date only by Yankees pitching great Mariano Rivera.
Source: philstar.com
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Former NBA star DeMarcus Cousins says he's open to pro stint in PH
January 26 ------ Back in the country for another tour of duty, DeMarcus Cousins said the possibility of him playing professional basketball in the Philippines, whether in the PBA or MPBL, isn't a far-fetched idea. After all, the former NBA star has been in the overseas scene for quite some time now. "I’m a businessman. If it makes sense, absolutely," Cousins said.
Cousins, a former fifth overall pick by the Sacramento Kings in 2010, last played for the Denver Nuggets in 2022 to wrap up his 12-year run in the NBA. He has since then brought his act abroad, strutting his stuff in various countries like Puerto Rico, Taiwan, and Mongolia. Last year, he flew to the Philippines to reinforce the Zamboanga Valientes in the Asian Tournament, where the Filipino ballclub completed a title sweep in their homecourt at the Zamboanga Coliseum.
He's back in the country now, this time with the Strong Group Athletics as they look to regain the Philippines' glory in the Dubai International Basketball Championship later this month. And playing in the PBA could be his next move, especially with a number of former NBA players currently suiting up as imports in the league like Rondae Hollis-Jefferson of TNT and Cheick Diallo of Converge. But while the chances of him playing for a local team is afloat, Cousins stressed his focused is helping SGA in its redemption tour in Dubai as he teams up with Andray Blatche and Ange Kouame as well as local players Rhenz Abando, Dave Ildefonso, Mikey Williams, and Jason Brickman. "It feels great to be back. Same supporters last time, same love. I feel that same energy," Cousins said. "We've gotten better every day. From day one to now, it's a totally different team, so I'm excited about that. We're learning quickly. The chemistry is coming along greatly. The camaraderie is coming along greatly, so everything's moving in the right direction."
Source: gmanetwork.com
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