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What started as a short plan turned into a long-term stay,’ says AJ Salem, a Filipino content creator based in Bangkok. He is among more than 40,000 Filipinos who now call Thailand home.

Beyond the familiar faces of tourists visiting temples, nightclubs and shopping areas, Filipinos are thriving in a country more than 2,000 kilometers from home.

For them, living in Thailand is more than just finding work abroad. It is about experiencing another culture. Every day, they navigate workplaces, local communities and traditions while building friendships that cross languages and borders.

Home away from home

The journey from Koronadal City, South Cotabato (southern part of the Philippines) to Pathum Thani Province has been both professional and personal for MJ Esteban.

He’s been teaching in Thailand for seven years, but his fascination with the Southeast Asian country started long before that.

‘I’ve always liked Thailand,’ MJ said. ‘Even before moving here. I heard it was relatively easy to apply and meet the requirements to teach here. Aside from that, I was drawn to its beautiful culture, which in many ways feels similar to the Philippines. It made the transition feel like coming to a second home.’

MJ describes Thailand as a place where traditions remain alive in daily life. ‘I was impressed by how well-preserved and deeply integrated Thai culture is in everyday life. Over time, I’ve adapted by learning about their traditions little by little each day.’

‘It’s a continuous learning experience that has helped me feel more connected and respectful of their way of life,’ he said.

Fresh start in the Land of Smiles

AJ Salem’s experience was different, yet shared common threads of adaptation and discovery. Moving to Thailand offered him a fresh start, but it was not without challenges.

‘When I first arrived, I was impressed by how respectful and calm Thai people are. There is a natural sense of balance and politeness in everything they do,’ he recalled.

The first year, however, was not easy. AJ said he struggled with the language and sometimes felt out of place. Simple tasks like asking for directions or reading signs could be frustrating. Eventually, he learned to adapt.

‘I picked up Thai phrases, made friends, and tried to understand the culture from their perspective instead of comparing it to home. That is when things started to feel easier.’

Daily interactions with Thais shaped his perspective in meaningful ways.

‘They taught me patience, gratitude, and the importance of peace of mind. I used to rush through everything, but here people take time to enjoy life, even small things like a street meal or a quiet walk,’ AJ said.

Collaborating with Thai locals and brands also gave him a deeper respect for their creativity and attention to detail, motivating him to grow and improve in his own work.

He also shared why he chose Thailand. ‘At first, I wanted to experience living abroad but still stay close to home. Thailand felt familiar yet exciting, and it had the right mix of opportunity and lifestyle. I did not expect to stay this long, but the country slowly grew on me.’

Building life in Thailand

For Jamrell Buynay, Thailand has long been home. Born in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, and raised in Samutprakan, she now lives in Bangna, Bangkok, working as a Ccontent Sstrategist for an international school while creating travel and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) content online.

She first moved to Thailand at age 10, went back to the Philippines to study in college, she returned in 2022 to continue her career.

‘Thailand has been a second home for me,’ Jamrell said.

‘It’s culturally familiar, safe, with efficient transport, and a creative country that values content and education. It’s close to the Philippines, the cost of living is manageable, and there are many opportunities if you bring skills and a portfolio.’

Her first impression of Thai culture was shaped by the country’s politeness and community-oriented ways. She adapted by learning basic Thai, mirroring communication styles with a calm tone and concise tasks, and building friendships outside the Filipino circle to avoid staying in a bubble.

‘Working on a Thai-led team taught me patience, clarity and the value of reading the room,’ Jamrell said. ‘The Filipino community, including church, Embassy and OFW groups, is supportive and makes the transition less lonely.’

Jamrell often acts as a bridge by bringing Filipino warmth and English fluency along with local context from growing up here.

A culture of respect and learning

Topher Guevarra, a teacher in Bangkok, is relatively new but found Thailand welcoming from the start.

‘Thailand is really my first choice because of the culture, specially on how they value respect and integrity towards treating people,’ he said.

He added, ‘It is just like the Philippines.hence, I coped easily. I am also fond of learning languages that help me to dive into their culture.’

Topher also shared how it excites him every time he learns new words or phrases that he can use everyday.

Meanwhile, Topher offered this advice for Filipinos considering Thailand: ‘Test the water first by visiting Thailand as a tourist and trust your instincts.’

Different cultures, same warmth

Despite cultural and linguistic differences, many Filipinos in Thailand see familiar traits reflected in their Thai colleagues: kindness, hospitality and community spirit.

‘Thai people are genuinely kind and warm,’ MJ said.

‘They’re easy to get along with, which has made living here much easier. As a foreigner, I’ve always felt welcomed and treated like family, something I deeply appreciate.’

AJ echoed the same sentiment. ‘Thailand has taught me to slow down, appreciate life and respect people’s differences. Those are values we Filipinos share too, but living here reminded me how powerful they are when practiced daily.’

Support and settling in

For those considering a move to Thailand, they shared grounded advice.

‘Test the water first by visiting Thailand as a tourist and trust your instincts,’ Topher said.

MJ added, ‘Thailand is a great country to work in, especially for teachers. But like with any move abroad, it’s important to consider both the pros and cons.’

AJ offered a more reflective take. ‘Living abroad is not always easy. There will be moments of homesickness, culture shock, and times when you question if you made the right choice. But if you stay open-minded and positive, you will find your rhythm here.’

‘Learn to respect the culture, be kind to people, and embrace the differences. Thailand is a country that gives back the same energy you put into it. If you come here with good intentions and hard work, you can build a life that feels truly yours,’ he added.

Jamrell reminded newcomers to be prepared, saying, ‘Get your visas and permits in order, learn basic Thai fast, and budget wisely. Build networks and don’t stay in a Filipino bubble. Thailand rewards those who respect the culture and bring their skills to the table.’

Institutional support for Filipinos in Thailand has also grown stronger. On October 4, 2025, the Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers inaugurated the Migrant Workers Office in Bangkok.

The ceremony was attended by Philippine Ambassador to Thailand Millicent Cruz-Paredes, Labor Attaché Don Pangcog, Assistant Secretary Regina Galias, Deputy Administrator Rossane Catapang, Director Edz Claustro and Director Ronald Mina.

The office aims to serve as a ‘home away from home,’ offering on-ground assistance, access to government programs and help during emergencies.

Growing with Thailand

For Jamrell, AJ, MJ and Topher, every lesson learned, every friendship formed, and every challenge overcome in Thailand is part of a larger story of connection and growth.

Living and working here has shown them that home is not just where you are born, but where you learn, adapt and belong.

In Thailand, Filipinos find not only work and opportunity but also a culture that inspires respect, mindfulness and community, a second home that teaches as much as it welcomes.

University of Perpetual Help used its inside might to dictate the pace in the second half and overcome a feisty Jose Rizal University, 71-65, on Saturday in NCAA Season 101 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Bull-strong John Abis presided over the interior rampage as he scored 11 of his game-high 17 points in that decisive period when the Altas turned the tables around in their favor to snare their fifth win in six outings.

It also kept the Las Pinas-based dribblers atop Group A while quickly bouncing back from a stinging 63-56 defeat at the hands of the Letran Knights last Wednesday for their only loss of the season that far.

So dominant was UPHSD inside that it outrebounded JRU, 41-33, including 22-11 in the final half.

‘We outrebounded them, that really helped us,’ said UPHSD coach Olsen Racela.

Racela was also all praises of his bench.

‘We knew coming into the season that we will be a little disadvantaged when it comes to personnel,’ said the PBA Hall of Famer. ‘But I have to commend my second group, I was really on them yesterday (Friday) in practice.’

‘I told them how crucial they’d be for us this season and it really showed in this game,’ he added.

JRU was confident at the start as it raced to an early 18-12 lead after the opening period before slowing down in the next when that advantage was cut to two, 34-32, at the break.

And then, the Altas started to flex their muscle.

The Bombers dropped to 3-3 in Group B.

The scores:

UPHSD 71 – Abis 17, Gojo Cruz 11, Boral 9, Alcantara 8, Casinilio 7, Orgo 5, Sleat 4, Nuñez 4, Gelsano 4, Maglupay 2, Tulabut 0, Pizzaro 0.

JRU 65 – Salvador 18, Argente 14, Peñaverde 9, Garupil 8, Panapanaan 6, Laurenaria 5, Lozano 3, Benitez 2, Sarmiento 0, Castillo 0, Duque 0.

Quarterscores: 12-18; 32-34; 52-50; 71-65

As a judge for the “Carnival Spectacle” talent and costume competition, held annually as part of the Empress search in Consolacion, Cebu, I had the pleasure of witnessing a wide array of performances and costumes. The event showcased the exceptional talents and creativity within the LGBTQ+ community. Each act brought a unique flavor, like singing, dancing, and acting. The performers’ dedication and passion were evident throughout the competition. The energy of the crowd and the performers created a truly memorable experience. It was a privilege to be part of such a vibrant celebration of talent. The diverse range of acts made judging a difficult but rewarding task.

Remarkably, several performers used their acts to address issues like corruption, discrimination, and injustice –topics that resonate with everyday citizens. What’s amazing is how contestants merged their artistic skills with pressing societal concerns. This fusion highlighted not only creativity but also social awareness. The event demonstrated how art can reflect and respond to real-world problems, inspiring reflection and dialogue. It was inspiring to see how creativity and conscience could come together on one stage.

Asserting the potential and talents within us is important. All we need are the right platforms and avenues for people to showcase what they can do, so others can appreciate their gifts. By creating opportunities for display and participation, we can foster growth, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for creative talent. This approach empowers individuals to share their abilities and enrich the community as a whole. It also encourages collaboration, learning, and mutual support among talents from diverse backgrounds. Accessible platforms turn hidden potential into visible, celebrated contributions.

As the local government units support the effort, this group within the community is being recognized for their broader contributions to society. Their impact reaches beyond beauty and pageantry, extending into community development, media, and entertainment, and even politics. This wide range of contributions underscores the important role they play in shaping local culture and progress. By backing their efforts, we reinforce the value of diverse talents in driving positive change.

The LGBTQ+ community continues to advocate for fair treatment, just like any other group in society, they face their own frailties, challenges, and limitations. While these realities don’t justify placing them in a disadvantaged position, recognizing their rights and talents helps promote inclusion and equal opportunities for all. Through supportive policies and inclusive practices, we can foster a more just and diverse community where everyone can contribute and thrive.

The LGBTQ+ community in Consolacion flourishes, demonstrating a vibrant presence. This environment fosters self-expression, providing a vital space for individuals to thrive. The community’s strength lies in its ability to amplify voices and celebrate diversity. This supportive atmosphere allows individuals to find their place and build meaningful connections. Consequently, Consolacion has become a beacon of inclusivity. The community’s success showcases the power of acceptance and the positive impact of a welcoming environment.

Consolacion exemplifies the transformative potential of embracing diversity and supporting marginalized communities. They truly find a voice and a place of expression and therefore thrive best. This kind of environment is made possible with the support of the 21 barangay captains who sent their ladies to the contest, the unparalleled support of the mother of the town, mayor Teresa ‘Nene’ Pepito Alegado and the equally supportive vice mayor, Dr. Joannes Alegado. The mother and son tandem have truly provided an environment favorable for the recognition of talents and contributions of the LGBTQ+ members –and truly valuing their existence.

Tropical Depression Ramil is expected to make landfall over Catanduanes today as it continues to move west-southwest over the Philippine Sea, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

The center of Ramil was last located 640 kilometers east of Juban, Sorsogon yesterday, with maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 70 kph.

The tropical depression was moving west-southwest at 25 kph, with strong winds extending up to 400 kilometers from its center.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 remains in effect over several provinces in Luzon and the Visayas including Catanduanes, Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, Burias Island, Ticao Island, Aurora, Quezon, including Polillo Islands, the eastern portion of Nueva Ecija, and parts of Isabela, Quirino and Nueva Vizcaya, as well as Northern Samar and portions of Eastern and Western Samar.

PAGASA said Ramil may intensify into a tropical storm within 12 hours and possibly reach severe tropical storm category before landfall, in which case Signal No. 2 or 3 could be raised in more areas.

Based on PAGASA’s forecast track, Ramil’s first landfall will be over Catanduanes this afternoon, before it passes close to or over the mainland Bicol Region this evening.

A storm surge of one to two meters may occur within 48 hours over low-lying and coastal areas of Isabela, Aurora, Quezon, including Polillo Islands, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar and Samar.

Sea travel is discouraged, particularly for small seacraft, as rough to very rough seas are expected over the northern and eastern seaboards of Catanduanes and Camarines Sur, with wave heights reaching up to 4.0 meters. Moderate to rough conditions are also likely along the eastern seaboards of Luzon and Visayas, where waves may reach up to 2.5 meters.

By early Sunday morning Ramil may make a second landfall over Aurora or Quezon before crossing Northern or Central Luzon.

It is projected to emerge over the West Philippine Sea by Sunday afternoon or evening and exit the Philippine area of responsibility by Monday.

PAGASA noted that a southward shift in the cyclone’s track could bring its center closer to the Bicol Peninsula and result in more areas being placed under higher wind signals.

PAGASA advised residents in low-lying and mountainous areas to remain alert for possible flash floods and landslides, especially in areas already saturated by previous rains.

The weather bureau urged local government units and residents in affected areas to take precautionary measures, including preparing for possible evacuation, and to stay updated on the latest advisories.

China’s Fan Shuangshuang fired a stellar 6-under 66 to seize a two-stroke lead in the first round of the Women’s China Open on Friday in what is her first tournament start in six months.

The 20-year-old Fan smiled her way to nine brilliant birdies through her opening 14 holes at Enhance Anting Golf Club before stumbling with a double bogey on the 15th hole, which allowed in-form Canadian teenager Anna Huang to stay hot on her heels after a 68.

The leaderboard in the CNY 1 million showpiece also featured a strong group of Thai challengers, with Kultida Pramphun returning a 69 for tied third place alongside local hopefuls Lin Xinen, Pang Runzhi and 15-year-old amateur Zhou Shiyuan, who is a three-time CLPG Tour winner. Fellow Thais, Sherman Santiwiwatthanaphong, who is currently second on the CLPG Tour Order of Merit, Chonlada Chayanun and Phisitkhwan Pooratanaopa all carded 70s for tied seventh place.

Defending champion Ji Yuai began her campaign with a battling 71 to end the first day five strokes back while 16-year-old Xu Ying, who turned professional this week after earning low individual honors at the recent World Amateur Team Championships Espirito Santo Trophy in Singapore, also carded a 71.

This week’s CLPG Tour flagship tournament is only Fan’s third appearance of 2025 as she took a sabbatical due to health reasons but she has quickly dusted off her clubs, with a hot putter propelling her to a sizzling start in Shanghai.

‘This is my first tournament round in a while. I’m very nervous at the start but my irons were pretty good and it encouraged me to play better. My putting is usually not that good but today, it went well and my caddie helped a lot with reading the greens. I got some good luck too,’ said Fan.

Keeping her expectations low for her long-awaited return to Tour life, Fan displayed a positive attitude and brushed aside her lone blemish on the 15th hole. ‘It was a bad thing, but I’m still like 6-under and based on the score, I was not nervous,’ she said.

‘I played in the China Open many years back (in 2019) which was a great experience as I got to play with Feng Shanshan and Yin Ruoning (in the third round) and that was fascinating. I know I’m not quite as good like them, but it really encouraged me to practice harder. I’ve tried to play in the US (Epson Tour) in the last two years but it didn’t go well.’

Anna Huang, 16, may be far away from her Canadian base in Vancouver but she was right at home at Enhance Anting, shrugging off an opening bogey with five birdies as she ended the first day in solo second.

She won back-to-back Ladies European Tour titles in Spain and France last month, becoming only the fourth teenager to triumph on the circuit, and she now has her eyes fixed on a first professional victory in Asia.

‘I think I’m just hitting it really well. My ball-striking was good, especially my irons as I was able to get a few shots close for easy birdies,’ said Huang. ‘I think just mentally, I’ve been more confident with my game. That really helps with the overall game and shooting lower scores. That’s been the key.’

Seasoned-campaigner Sherman Santiwiwattanaphong of Thailand took her familiar place on the leaderboard after a mixed card that featured six birdies against four bogeys. The 28-year-old, who has enjoyed stints on the LPGA Tour, is presently ranked second on the CLPG Tour Order of Merit, and is seeking to repeat her Merit triumph of two years ago.

The highlight of her day was a chip-in birdie on Hole No. 8. ‘I’m enjoying myself here. I want to play happy golf. The course is nice, I love it. It was a case of some good and some bad golf. Finishing on 2-under is good,’ said Sherman, who holds three professional victories.

‘I’m looking for my second win (in China) but I’m not trying to pressure myself. I’m just trying to have fun with my golf and enjoy it. If I play my best, I think the second win will be soon.’

Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons bowed out of the Volleyball World Beach Volley Pro Tour Challenge following a nail-biting 18-21, 24-22, 15-12 loss to Switzerland’s Annique Niederhauser and Menia Bentele yesterday at the Nuvali Sands Court by Ayala Land in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

‘It was a sorry loss,’ Rondina said after the Round-of-24 defeat. ‘They (Swiss) didn’t want to give up.’

After taking the opening set, the Filipinas looked poised to reach the next round. They got things going in the second set where the Swiss lost their composure after committing a spate of service and return errors.

But Niederhauser and Bentele survived and sent the match to a decider that saw them regroup further to frustrate the local bets in the tournament hosted by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation led by Ramon ‘Tats’ Suzara.

‘But we’ll take this loss as a learning experience and we’ll be back stronger especially in the Southeast Asian Games in December,’ said Rondina

Rondina and Pons were the last pair standing among the seven Philippine teams – four women and three men – in the event that ends tomorrow.

Making the Round of 24, however, was already a breakthrough for Philippine beach volleyball.

With Taylor Swift reuniting with photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott, and producers Max Martin and Shellback – who were involved in her sixth album, ‘Reputation’ – many assumed her latest album, ‘The Life of a Showgirl,’ would be a bombastic pop record. It seemed like a welcome departure from the moody tone of her previous record, ‘The Tortured Poets Department’ (TTPD).

That’s why it was surprising that what ended up on her 12th album was another mid-tempo record that didn’t match the glamorous aesthetic of the Mert and Marcus photo shoot, nor the euphoric melodies Swift, Martin, and Shellback usually produce.

I’ve been a Swiftie since her ‘Red’ era in 2012, often defending her artistic choices when fans were divided. But I can’t defend this latest artistic choice. While I am a huge Swift fan, I am a pop listener first, and I value the little details that shape a record’s sound and aesthetic.

It’s especially frustrating when Swift herself has always had showgirl tendencies as a performer, evident throughout ‘The Eras Tour,’ where she leaned into this concept while performing ‘I Can Do It With a Broken Heart’ in the TTPD segment, as well as in the music video for ‘Bejeweled.’ I assumed she would double down on the ‘showgirl’ concept for this album, so you can imagine my confusion when the album dropped last October 3.

Where’s the showgirl vibe?

The first half somehow lived up to its assumed concept, especially in the first three tracks: the opener ‘The Fate of Ophelia,’ a romantic ode to her fiancé Travis Kelce over a ’60s girl group jam; ‘Elizabeth Taylor,’ in which Swift finds familiarity in the chaotic life of the Hollywood icon; and ‘Opalite,’ which seems primed to be the album’s next single.

The second half takes a confusing turn, especially in songs like ‘Actually Romantic’ and ‘Ruin the Friendship,’ which sound more pop-rock than ‘showgirl’. Despite the latter being one of the best songs on the album, it feels out of place with its theme of regret in a melancholic guitar sound, fitting more with ‘Midnights.’

Then there are head-scratchers like ‘CANCELLED!’ and ‘Honey’ that make me question Swift’s ear at times, and whether the album should even be called ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ in the first place.

At least the album closes gracefully with its titular track featuring Sabrina Carpenter. But it makes me wish the songs before it carried the same ‘showgirl’ splendor to justify its ceremonial tone.

Speaking of Carpenter, I noticed that Swift attempted to emulate her sound in a few songs, such as ‘Wood,’ where she isn’t subtle about her sexual attraction to Kelce, and ‘Opalite,’ where she meshes a bit of her own sound with Carpenter’s style for a serviceable track for the radio and TikTok.

Swift, who usually excels at channeling her contemporaries like Lana Del Rey, falls flat here in imitating Carpenter’s style. Sabrina’s colorful personality goes hand-in-hand with her songwriting, making her songs charming for their in-your-face attitude – something Swift lacks.

That’s why ‘Actually Romantic,’ in which she jokingly gets aroused by the subject of a certain ‘brat’ pop star’s one-sided beef with her, sounds immature.

One of the criticisms of her recent output is that her lyrics have become too ‘wordy,’ a result of her experimentation to showcase her expanded vocabulary on her 2020 pandemic albums, ‘Folklore’ and ‘Evermore.’

I never had an issue with this, even with how verbose TTPD can be, until ‘Father Figure’ made me wish she would use simpler words that could have created a greater dramatic effect. The lyric ‘I pay the check before it kisses the mahogany grain,’ where Swift talks about being able to pay the bill regardless of the cost, would’ve been more effective had she simply replaced that metaphor with ‘table.’

Take ‘Death by a Thousand Cuts’ from her 2019 album ‘Lover’ as an example. She wasn’t as wordy in describing the vivid image of a life-changing breakup, akin to the story beats from ‘Someone Great’, which inspired Swift to prove she could write an epic breakup song while still in a relationship.

Even with my issue with ‘Father Figure’ lyrically, it still shows Swift’s strength as a storyteller and her ability to reference pop culture and apply it to her personal experiences, taking influence from ‘The Godfather’ trilogy and Logan Roy, the patriarchal antagonist in HBO’s ‘Succession.’

However, it’s clear that throughout this record, Swift aims for buzzword-heavy lyrics that fit for Instagram captions, while the storyteller I know her for takes a backseat.

As Swift aims to make this era bigger than the last, this isn’t surprising. People often forget that the Swift who wrote ‘Folklore’ and ‘Evermore’ in 2020 is also the same woman who released ‘Lover’ in 2019, which had songs like ‘ME!’ and ‘You Need to Calm Down,’ aimed for radio play rather than critical acclaim.

We have to understand that Swift’s songwriting and business moves usually go hand in hand in her creative process, a balance she has long mastered. But the latter seems to be driving her creative direction more this time. It makes sense, given how people dissected this through social media. Whether the reaction is positive or negative, the discourse still works in her favor – though at the expense of fans who have to sit through the many bad-faith interpretations surrounding some of the tracks.

Will this record age better with time?

While I am mixed toward Swift’s songwriting in this album, it’s not to say she’s become artistically unrecognizable. Her creativity is still evident in the way she directed the music video for ‘The Fate of Ophelia,’ showing her growing confidence as a director, aided by Oscar-winning cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto (‘Barbie,’ ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’), who best understands Swift’s ideas.

Swift’s strength as a storyteller now seems to lie in her visuals rather than in her lyrics, which is why I would have preferred for her to focus on her upcoming directorial feature-length film for Searchlight Pictures as her next project instead of another album.

Since Swift isn’t planning to tour for this album, she said in interviews that she has more time to direct music videos, with ‘Opalite’ likely being the next single – one that could find more success with a similarly infectious video as ‘Ophelia.’ It’s these music videos that will keep me tuned in as a fan, despite my mixed feelings toward the record itself.

Swift is hopeful that listeners, regardless of how they feel initially, will eventually warm up to its sound. She told Lowe, ‘What I often love seeing my fans say is, ‘I used to be someone who didn’t relate to Reputation. And now that I’ve been through some other things in my life, that’s my favorite album.’ Or, ‘I used to be a Fearless girlie, now I’m obsessed with Evermore. We’re doing this thing for keeps.’ I know what I made. I know I adore it, and on the theme of the Showgirl, all of this is part of it.’

Swift has a point. ‘Reputation’ was divisive when it came out in 2017, as the toxic political climate and her feud with Kanye West and Kim Kardashian were still fresh, focusing more on her tabloidized celebrity image than on her as an artist. It took time and a stadium tour for the album to be appreciated more positively than when it was first released.

As for TTPD, many, including myself, who were initially underwhelmed by that album later appreciated how Swift stuck to her concept and how her storytelling shone through despite its monotonous sound.

Who knows if I might eventually appreciate this album in a few years? That’s the fascinating part of pop culture and why I pay attention to it as a journalist. Some things that were panned at first might eventually get their flowers. And Swift is betting on that.

As of now, as a Swiftie in October 2025, I can confidently say that my frustration with not liking ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ stems from being a fan for 15 years who knows that Swift can create a better album than this.

Tropical Storm Ramil (international name: Fengshen) slowed down while moving west-northwestward over the sea east of Sorsogon on Saturday morning, October 18, state weather bureau PAGASA said.

As of 7 a.m., Ramil was spotted 260 kilometers east of Juban, Sorsogon, packing maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour near the center and gusts of up to 80 kph. It was moving west-northwestward at 15 kph.

Strong to gale-force winds extend outward up to 400 kilometers from the storm’s center.

Wind signals

PAGASA said the following areas are under tropical cyclone wind signals:

Signal No. 2

Camarines Norte

Catanduanes

northern portion of Camarines Sur (Tinambac, Siruma, Goa, San Jose, Lagonoy, Garchitorena, Caramoan, Presentacion)

Polillo Islands

Residents may experience gale-force winds of 62 to 88 kph, posing a minor to moderate threat to life and property.

Signal No. 1

Luzon

Cagayan including Babuyan Islands

Isabela

Quirino

Nueva Vizcaya

Apayao

Abra

Kalinga

Mountain Province

Ifugao

Bengue

Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Sur

La Union

Pangasinan

Aurora

Nueva Ecija

eastern portion of Bulacan (Doña Remedios Trinidad, Norzagaray, San Miguel, San Ildefonso, San Rafael, Angat)

eastern portion of Tarlac (Camiling, San Clemente, Santa Ignacia, Paniqui, Moncada, San Manuel, Anao, Ramos, Pura, Victoria, City of Tarlac, La Paz, Concepcion, Gerona)

eastern portion of Pampanga (Magalang, Arayat, Candaba)

northern and eastern portions of Quezon (Tagkawayan, Perez, Alabat, Quezon, Atimonan, Padre Burgos, Unisan, Gumaca, Plaridel, Agdangan, Pagbilao, Mauban, Calauag, Guinayangan, Lopez, Pitogo, Macalelon, General Luna, Catanauan, San Narciso, Buenavista, San Francisco, San Andres, Mulanay, General Nakar, Infanta, Real, Sampaloc) including Polillo Islands

rest of Camarines Sur

Albay

Sorsogon

Burias Island

Ticao Island

Visayas

northern Samar

northern portion of Eastern Samar (San Policarpo, Arteche, Oras, Dolores, Maslog, Jipapad, Taft, Can-Avid)

northern portion of Samar (Matuguinao, San Jose de Buan, Calbayog City, Gandara, Santa Margarita, Pagsanghan, San Jorge)

Winds of 39 to 61 kph may bring minimal to minor impacts in these areas.

Storm surge, severe winds

PAGASA warned of possible storm surges up to 2 meters along low-lying coastal areas of Isabela, Aurora, Quezon, Marinduque, Camarines Norte and Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon and parts of Northern Samar and Ilocos provinces within 48 hours.

The trough and outer rainbands of Ramils and the prevailing easterlies will also bring strong to gale-force gusts over the following areas:

Saturday, October 18: Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Metro Manila, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Marinduque, Mindoro Provinces and Masbate

Sunday, October 19: Calabarzon, Central Luzon, Metro Manila and Eastern Samar

Sea conditions

Gale warnings remain in effect over the eastern seaboards of Southern Luzon and the northern seaboards of Bicol Region.

Up to 4.5 meters: northern and eastern seaboards of Catanduanes, northern seaboards of Camarines Sur and Camarines Norte, eastern seaboards of mainland Cagayan and Isabela and eastern seaboards of Polillo Islands.

Up to 4.0 meters: northeastern seaboard of Aurora and eastern seaboard of Babuyan Islands

Up to 3.0 meters: seaboards of Batanes, rest of Aurora, remaining coasts of Cagayan including Babuyan Islands and Polillo Islands and northern seaboard of Northern Samar.

Up to 2.5 meters: seaboards of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur, eastern seaboards of Albay, Sorsogon and Eastern Samar and remaining coasts of Northern Samar.

Up to 2.0 meters: seaboards of La Union, western seaboards of Pangasinan and Northern Samar, and eastern seaboards of Dinagat Islands, Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands, Surigao del Sur and the rest of mainland Quezon.

PAGASA strongly advised against sea travel as waves and swells may worsen with Rami’s presence over Philippine waters.

Track and intensity

PAGASA said Tropical Storm Ramil is forecast to move west-northwestward toward Central and Southern Luzon beginning Saturday.

On its forecast track, the storm’s center may make landfall or pass close to Catanduanes on Saturday afternoon or evening before moving near Vinzons, Camarines Norte and Polillo Islands by Sunday morning, October 19. By Sunday afternoon, Ramil is expected to turn northwestward and may make another landfall over Aurora or Isabela.

After crossing the rugged terrain of Northern and Central Luzon, the storm is projected to emerge over the West Philippine Sea by Sunday evening and exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Monday morning, October 20.

While over the Philippine Sea, Ramil may still intensify into a severe tropical storm before landfall. It is expected to slightly weaken as it crosses Luzon but could re-intensify once over open waters.

PAGASA warned that heavy rainfall, strong winds and storm surges may still be felt in areas outside the storm’s direct path. The agency also noted that a possible northward or southward shift in its track could alter its landfall area.

While early signs of recovery are emerging in the local stock market, meaningful reforms and credible governance will be needed to fully restore investor confidence, according to an investment banker.

Investment and Capital Corp. of the Philippines (ICCP) president and COO Manny Ocampo said the Philippine stock market stands at a critical juncture, shaped by political uncertainty, elevated interest rates and governance concerns.

Ocampo said that restoring investor confidence, however, depends less on short-term volatility and more on decisive leadership, institutional reform and credible corporate leadership, and good governance.

When investors see that the government is serious and that institutions are held accountable, they will come back to the market with longer-term commitments, Ocampo said.

‘Investors want to see government and corporate leaders taking decisive action. Reforms, if implemented swiftly, can calm public discontent and uncertainty, and send the right signals to both local and foreign investors,’ he said.

‘Ultimately, governance and leadership confidence matter more than the daily headlines. The key is consistency and follow-through in action,’ he added.

Ocampo, however, said value turnover has improved and fund managers have started visiting Philippine corporates in preparation for their 2026 investment programs.

‘If we see more of these visits, it means the Philippines is back on their radar. That’s often the first step before allocations flow in,’ he said.

With interest rates easing, Ocampo said that corporates are also returning to bonds and project finance.

‘But we’re also seeing greater interest in real estate investment trusts as a way to unlock liquidity from mature assets. Amendments being considered by regulators for the REIT framework could make the asset class even more attractive,’ he said.

Ocampo expects upcoming equity offerings to serve as a litmus test for market appetite.

‘High-profile initial public offerings (IPOs) such as Maynilad, and potentially large names like GCash or SM REITS in the future, will be closely watched. Strong results from these could bring investors back in droves and restore momentum to the market,’ he said.

Retail investors are likewise expected to return with the arrival of compelling new IPOs, with Ocampo saying that Filipino investors will go where the returns are.

He said that if new names emerge and governance is credible, retail would be back alongside institutions.

For Ocampo, renewable energy and infrastructure are seen as key drivers of long-term equity upside, providing sustainable growth in revenues and profitability.

‘Digital technology remains attractive, but unlike infra and renewables, it often comes with higher volatility depending on the business model and risk appetite,’ he said.

Ocampo said that Philippine markets, though challenged, remain resilient and poised for growth provided reforms translate into concrete action and both government and corporates maintain transparency and accountability.

To prevent traffic jams across the metropolis this Christmas season, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority will enforce measures to ease road congestion from Nov. 17 until Dec. 25, the MMDA said yesterday.

MMDA Chairman Romando Artes met with other government officials and shopping mall representatives to discuss measures that may affect their operations during the Yuletide season.

It was agreed that shopping malls in Metro Manila will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and prohibited from organizing mall-wide sale events on those days.

Deliveries by shopping mall operators should be done between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. the following day, also on weekdays.

The MMDA will also suspend roadworks, including ‘right-of-way excavation activities, road reblocking works, pipe-laying, road upgrading and other excavation works that may hinder or disrupt the smooth flow of traffic.’

However, the ‘flagship projects of the government, bridge repair and construction projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways, flood interceptor catchment projects, emergency leak repair and others’ are exempted from this rule, the MMDA said.

Artes said the measures proved effective in managing road traffic conditions in Metro Manila in previous holiday seasons, during which vehicular traffic typically increases by 10 to 25 percent.

Provincial buses will be allowed to enter Metro Manila until New Year’s Day.

Buses from the north should stop at terminals in Cubao, Quezon City while those from the south should end their trips at terminals in Pasay City or at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange or PITX.

Buses can enter Metro Manila from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. starting Dec. 20 and at all hours from Dec. 24 to Jan. 2, 2026.

The MMDA plans to ask the Department of Transportation and transport groups as well as the operators of the EDSA bus carousel, Light Rail Transit and Metro Rail Transit lines to consider extending their operating hours.

Artes said the no-contact apprehension policy and road-clearing operations would remain in place to help decongest roads and ‘improve traffic discipline.’