Category: Philippines Daily Inquirer

Some lawmakers from the House of Representatives have sought to increase the budget of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) for next year amid significant cuts in the 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP).

During the House committee on appropriations’ briefing for the proposed budget of the DHSUD, House Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling asked the lawmakers to grant the agency’s request to seek more funds for their programs.

Aliling shared that the DHSUD and its attached agencies were allotted P5.498 billion under the 2027 NEP, which fell short of P54.501 billion from what it proposed of P60 billion. The NEP allocated P2.49 billion for DHSUD; P2.274 billion for National Housing Authority (NHA); P166 million for Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC); P450,000 for National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC); and P566 million for Human Settlements Adjudication Committee (HSAC).

However, the agency proposed the following: P4.962 billion for DHSUD; P44.732 billion for NHA; P4.666 billion for SHFC; and P890 million for HSAC.

Given the budget cuts under the NEP, Aliling then requested additional funding of P280,290,000 for DHSUD; P1.623 billion for NHA; P2 billion for SHFC; P8.08 billion for NHMFC; and P47,547,000 for HSAC.

House committee on housing and urban development chairperson Marivic Co-Pilar made the first motion to increase the funding for SHFC and other attached agencies of the DHSUD.

Co-Pilar’s motion was then supported by lawmakers present in the hearing such as Reps. Leila de Lima, Lani Mercado, Roman Romulo, Elmer Catulpos, Rufus Rodriguez, Miro Quimbo, among others.

At the end of the budget briefing, committee on appropriations chairperson Mikaela Suansing asked the agency to write a letter to the panel determining the top three projects needing additional funding. Suansing noted that this is done for the panel to properly assess what to be given a budget increase upon the availability of the fiscal space.

With this, Aliling said that the top three priorities are the planning to perform mandates for the DHSUD, contract of service hiring and procurement for the HSAC, and the community mortgage program.

Rain showers triggered by the southwest monsoon or ‘habagat’ will continue to hound parts Luzon on Wednesday, according to the state weather bureau.

Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) weather specialist Benison Estareja said during the 5 p.m weather advisory that the following areas may be affected by monsoon rains on Tuesday evening until Wednesday.

Ilocos Region

Cordillera Region

western portion of Central Luzon

Zambales

Bataan

Tarlac

Pampanga

Cavite

Batangas

Occidental Mindoro

Antique

Metro Manila

The rest of Luzon and Western Visayas may experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies also due to the enhanced ‘habagat.’

Meanwhile, localized thunderstorms may prevail over the rest of the country, according to Pagasa.

2 LPAs looming

Pagasa also reported that a low-pressure area (LPA) is likely to form and enter the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR), which may turn into a tropical depression between the end of August or early September.

It will be given a domestic name Pilandok once it enters PAR, Estareja said.

‘Pagsapit po ng huling araw po ng Agosto hanggang sa mga unang araw ng Setyembre, itong mino-monitor natin ang mabubuong sama ng panahon, low-pressure area or tropical depression, ay kikilos sa hilagang bahagi ng Philippine Sea, pa-hilagang kanluran at tumataas ang chance nga na maging isang ganap na bagyo,’ Estareja said.

(From the last day of August through the first few days of September, the weather disturbance we are monitoring-specifically a low-pressure area or tropical depression-will move across the northern part of the Philippine Sea in a northwest direction, with an increasing chance of developing into a tropical cyclone.)

Meanwhile, another potential LPA is also likely to develop and enter the PAR next week, although, it has a slim chance of intensifying into a tropical cyclone.

‘Posible pong mabago yung senaryo natin regarding these two weather disturbances kaya laging mag-antabay sa ating updates,’ he said.

(The scenario regarding these two weather disturbances could change, so please stay tuned for our updates.)

On Day 18 of the Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial, Office of the Vice President Assistant Chief of Staff Lemuel Ortonio takes the witness stand on Tuesday to testify on the alleged misuse of P500 million in confidential funds.

Ortonio allegedly accompanied former OVP special disbursing officer Gina Acosta, the previous witness presented to the court, when she encashed P500 million in confidential funds from LandBank Shaw Blvd., in increments of P125 million every quarter from the last quarter of 2022 until the third quarter of 2023

When Kevin Quiambao was tapped to be part of Gilas Pilipinas’ long-term program a few years ago, he made it a point to make the most of his minutes.

With the second round of the 2027 Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers coming up, the La Salle product’s mentality remains the same.

‘From the start, when Coach Tim (Cone) got me at the very first window, I told myself to stay ready every time, whenever the opportunity comes, to take every moment and make the most out of it,’ he said.

‘I’ll do whatever I can to contribute for the team and for the country. Same thing. I’ll do whatever I can to be effective for the team.’

Quiambao did just that when he showed his readiness for Gilas during the third window of the qualifiers.

After scoring 24 points across four games in the first two windows, the 25-year-old forward had his breakout performance for the Philippines.

Quiambao played his best game for Gilas against New Zealand, scoring 23 points on top of three rebounds, one steal and a block in a heartbreaking double-overtime loss last July in Auckland.

Quiambao picked up the slack with Justin Brownlee struggling and dealing with injuries.

He faces the same predicament in Gilas’ crucial homestand against Jordan and Iran with Brownlee out anew.

And just like his previous outing, Quiambao isn’t the type who backs down from a challenge, especially when he has the full support of his teammates.

‘I’m thankful and blessed that my teammates are giving me confidence every single game.’

Gilas Pilipinas’ second round campaign tips off Friday against Jordan before clashing with Iran on Sunday with both games taking place at Mall of Asia Arena.

In the Philippines, the arrival of the ber months signals the unofficial beginning of the holiday season, and with it comes the excitement of dressing up for gatherings, discovering new beauty rituals, planning thoughtful gifts, and finding little luxuries worth indulging in.

With ‘Start the Ber Months in Style’ as its theme, Lazmall Luxury’s two-day campaign sets the tone for the festivities ahead, inviting shoppers to embrace the season early, indulge in considered discoveries, and find meaningful pieces for themselves and the people who matter most, all on LazMall.

With a curated selection of luxury and premium names, LazMall Luxury offers shoppers an elevated way to kick off the holiday season as it brings together premium names in one trusted destination,

making this the perfect occasion to discover, celebrate, and shop for what’s to come.

Need some ideas? Start your seasonal refresh with the staples and check out the timeless Lacoste Men’s Classic Fit Piqué Polo Shirt and Malbon Bennett Knit Polo Sweater, or add a stylish touch to your golf days with the Malbon Kodiak Performance Golf Bag.

For beauty finds, the right foundation base is a must. Pick up Bobbi Brown’s Vitamin Enriched Face Base+ primer for a hydrated, glowy, makeup-ready base.

If you prefer your skincare essentials with an extra touch of indulgence, Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair Recovery Treatment Essence and Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex, together with the Pure Color Gelee Glow Oil and the Glossy Pout Tinted Lip Oil, provide a regimen for skin that deserves a little more attention and pampering. Meanwhile, La Mer’s Rejuvenating Eye Cream and Refreshing Balance Collection bring an elevated touch to everyday self-care and recovery, perfect for slowing down before the holiday rush begins.

Other brands you can find on LazMall Luxury include Chloe, Songmont, Harman Kardon, Diageo, and Sasa Official Store, among others.

From coveted fashion and beauty pieces to lifestyle essentials and statement gifts, LazMall Luxury makes it easier for discerning shoppers to discover pieces that feel special, while shopping with the confidence that comes from authenticity and LazMall’s trusted brand experience.

Whether refreshing a personal wardrobe ahead of holiday gatherings, finding beauty must-haves for festive occasions, elevating the home for celebrations, or getting an early start on meaningful gifts, head on to LazMal Luxury on August 26 – 27 and welcome the season in style.

For more information, you can visit Lazada Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

The body of an 8-year-old boy who drowned in Calumpit town was found in waters near Manila Bay on Tuesday, Aug. 25, according to a report received by the Bulacan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).

Ran Romy Ortillano reportedly drowned in a river in Barangay Iba O’ Este, Calumpit, on Sunday, Aug. 23. His body was found floating off the island barangay of Masukol in Paombong town at around 5:10 a.m., PDRRMO head Manuel Lukban Jr. said.

The victim was identified through his clothing and physical features.

According to Enriquito Santiago Jr., head of the Calumpit Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Ortillano went to the river at around 5 p.m. to look for river snails, or kuhol. He was standing near the riverbank when he accidentally slipped and fell into the water.

His 49-year-old neighbor, Jonie Soronio, immediately dove into the river to rescue him. Soronio managed to grab the boy and swim with him on his back, but the strong current caused him to lose his grip.

Other residents joined the rescue effort and tried to push the boy toward the riverbank, but the strong current eventually swept him away.

Backflow from Pampanga and the mountainous areas of Bulacan has kept Calumpit under about 5 feet of floodwater.

Amid the southwest monsoon, or habagat, and typhoons Maymay and Luis, Calumpit was placed under a state of calamity on Aug. 10.

‘Pinoy Big Brother’ alum Joj Agpangan has officially entered motherhood as she and her non-showbiz husband, Danny, welcomed their first child, baby boy John Evan.

Agpangan announced the arrival of their son through a series of posts on her Instagram page on Monday, Aug. 24.

‘The sweetest chapter begins now. Welcome home, our sweet boy. John Evan Fries,’ she wrote, adding that her son was born in July. ‘Thank You God for everything.’

In her Instagram Stories, Agpangan recounted her birthing journey, saying she endured two and a half days of labor.

‘Got induced early. Two and a half days of labor. Over 60 hours that pushed me further physically, mentally, and emotionally than I ever knew I could go,’ she said. ‘It was raw, exhausting, and pure surrender but God gave me the strength for every single hour.’

The actress then expressed her gratitude to Danny whom she described as her ‘absolute rock.’

‘You held my hand through the hardest hours and never let me feel alone in it. Truly couldn’t have crossed the finish line without you,’ she addressed him. ‘I’m just so grateful to do this life with you.’

Presented by the Philippine Foundation for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled (PFRD), the Apolinario Mabini Awards is one of the country’s longest-running recognition programs promoting the rights, welfare, and inclusion of persons with disabilities. The Disability-Friendly Establishment Award recognizes organizations that go beyond compliance by providing facilities, services, and environments that enable PWDs to navigate public spaces with dignity, independence, and confidence.

The recognition reflects Robinsons Land Corporation’s belief that accessibility is fundamental to creating welcoming spaces where everyone can participate in community life. Through Robinsons Malls, the company continues to design and operate developments that are inclusive, and responsive to the diverse needs of its customers. As the heart of the communities it serves, Robinsons Malls is committed to creating environments where every individual can connect, participate, and thrive.

‘We are honored to receive this recognition, which affirms our commitment to creating spaces that are accessible and inclusive for everyone,’ said Maria Kristina Real-Lim, Deputy Business Unit General Manager of Robinsons Malls. ‘At Robinsons Malls, we believe every individual deserves to enjoy meaningful experiences in spaces designed with dignity, comfort, and accessibility in mind. Through thoughtful design, responsible operations, and meaningful partnerships, we continue to build communities where everyone feels welcome and empowered.’

Beyond its physical spaces, Robinsons Malls actively partners with government agencies, advocacy groups, and local communities to promote programs that advance inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunity. These collaborations form part of the company’s broader commitment to creating developments that generate lasting social value while improving everyday experiences for the communities it serves.

The recognition builds on Robinsons Malls’ longstanding commitment to accessibility, following previous honors received by Robinsons Magnolia and Robinsons Galleria South at the Apolinario Mabini Awards. It further reflects the company’s continued efforts to embed inclusivity into the way its malls are designed, operated, and experienced.

As Robinsons Land Corporation continues to expand its portfolio of Robinsons Malls across the country, it remains committed to creating destinations where everyone can connect, participate, and thrive. By championing accessible, inclusive, and community-centered developments, Robinsons Malls continues to build better lives while serving as a steady and dependable presence at the heart of the communities it serves.

Authorities inspected the fish section of the Baguio City Public Market on Monday (Aug. 24) after a consumer reported buying an unfamiliar crab that she feared could be poisonous.

In a statement issued by the Baguio City Veterinary and Agriculture Office (CVAO), the office said the consumer bought crabs from the market’s Fish Section on Aug. 22 and later noticed a brownish-red crab, estimated to be three to four inches long, mixed with the smaller edible crustaceans she had purchased.

Concerned about the crab’s unusual appearance, the consumer searched online for information and found reports suggesting that it could be poisonous. She decided not to consume the crabs and discarded her purchase.

The consumer reported the matter to the CVAO-Abattoir and Animal Products Quality Assurance Services Division on Aug. 23. She also shared her concern on several online community platforms, where the report gained public attention.

On Aug. 24, CVAO personnel met with the consumer to obtain first-hand information and retrieve the specimen for identification and analysis. However, the crab had already been discarded and was no longer available for examination.

The Meat and Fishery Products Monitoring Task Force, led by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Cordillera (BFAR-CAR), then conducted a joint inspection of the market’s Fish Section together with CVAO, the City Treasury Office-Market Division and the Mayor’s Office Public Safety and Order Division.

The inspection was led by Nazario Briguera, OIC BFAR Cordillera regional director . No suspected poisonous crabs were found during the inspection, according to CVAO.

CVAO said BFAR and the city office could not determine the identity of the crab reported by the consumer nor confirm whether it was poisonous because the specimen was no longer available for examination.

The office also cautioned that photographs alone are not sufficient to establish the species of a crab or determine whether it is poisonous, saying actual species identification and appropriate laboratory analysis are needed.

During the inspection, authorities also distributed information posters on poisonous fish and crabs to raise awareness among consumers and seafood vendors.

CVAO said its personnel conduct daily inspections and monitoring at the Fish Section to help ensure the safety of seafood being sold.

It urged consumers who encounter unfamiliar marine species to immediately report them to BFAR or CVAO and, whenever possible, preserve the specimen for proper assessment.

The office also reminded the public not to rely solely on online searches, artificial intelligence or social media posts to determine whether an unfamiliar marine species is poisonous or safe for consumption

Although no double-digit increases are expected in the coming weeks, motorists will still see an uptick in pump prices starting Aug. 25, with diesel going up by P2.31 per liter, the Department of Energy (DOE) said on Monday.

Gasoline and kerosene will also have upward price adjustments of up to P1.08 and 95 centavos per liter, respectively.

‘As a result of heightened tensions between US and Iran, motorists will see increases in gasoline and diesel prices, driven by new developments in the war that have pushed up global prices.

In the past week, prospects for a diplomatic resolution to the US-Iran conflict and the normalization of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz have weakened,’ Energy Secretary Sharon Garin told reporters.

‘This is the difficulty with the Philippines’ longtime dependence on imported fuel,’ Garin said. For Energy Undersecretary Alessandro Sales, the global oil market will see significant movements in prices if bombing attacks hit ports or pipelines in the region, since these would directly affect the supply.

‘But as of now, the probability of a double-digit increase in the coming weeks is low,’ Sales added. The DOE said the country’s fuel inventory is enough for 47.22 days.