Category: Philippines Daily Inquirer

Factory activity in the Philippines slipped into contraction in September, underscoring a rare postpandemic setback for the country’s manufacturers.

The Purchasing Managers’ Index, a widely tracked gauge of manufacturing health, fell to 49.9 last month from 50.8 in August, SandP Global said on Wednesday.

A reading below 50 signals a decline in activity.

The drop was ‘highly unusual’ in the sector’s post-pandemic trajectory, SandP noted, citing a renewed-though modest-fall in new orders.

Sales slipped for the first time in half a year, as firms pointed to weaker demand and fewer customers. /dda

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has directed its field office in Central Visayas to increase its coordination with local government units (LGUs) following a magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck off the coast of Cebu on Tuesday night, resulting in at least 26 deaths.

‘Our disaster quick response teams (QRTs) at the Central and Field Offices are on alert and have already reached out to the LGUs to assist the affected families,’ DSWD chief Rex Gatchalian said in a statement on Wednesday morning.

‘We know that our fellow Filipinos who had been affected are in need of urgent assistance,’ the secretary added.

He likewise said that food and non-food relief supplies are already on standby for distribution to the affected LGUs.

To date, Gatchalian disclosed that the agency maintains P379 million in standby funds and has 2.4 million boxes of family food packs (FFPs) for affected communities.

‘Yesterday, we were already on alert as we are preparing for an approaching low-pressure area that may enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility. And disaster operations for ‘Opong’ are still ongoing, so our DSWD QRTs have already been on high alert,’ he noted.

‘We will ensure that all hands are on deck to help with the victims of the earthquake,’ he added.

DSWD Field Offices are also monitoring areas affected by the earthquake with the coordination of their LGUs for possible assistance.

Based on reports, the quake had damaged heritage churches and other structures and knocked out power in parts of the central Philippines.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) initially measured the quake at magnitude 6.7 before upgrading it to 6.9.

It occurred at 9:59 p.m., with the epicenter located 21 kilometers northeast of Bogo City, Cebu, at a shallow depth of 5 kilometers. The U.S. Geological Survey initially recorded a magnitude 7.0 before revising it downward.

Authorities on Wednesday said the death toll has risen to at least 26, with more fatalities feared as rescue operations continue.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) instructed local government units (LGUs) affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that shook several areas of Cebu province to ensure the continuity of their services.

The quake struck 19 kilometers northeast of Bogo City in Cebu province on Tuesday night.

‘LGUs are reminded to activate their contingency and public service continuity plans, conduct resource inventories, preposition emergency supplies, and coordinate with neighboring LGUs, national government agencies, and the private sector for humanitarian support,’ the DILG said in a statement on Wednesday morning.

The department also asked affected LGUs to evacuate communities and suspend small-scale mining operations in high-risk areas.

‘LGUs must ensure the structural safety of evacuation centers and public buildings, and utilize open spaces as temporary shelters where needed,’ the DILG stressed.

In a subsequent statement on Wednesday, the DILG announced that it had ordered its attached agencies, the Bureau of Fire Protection and the Philippine National Police, to assist in the rescue efforts.

‘The DILG extends its sympathies to the families of those who died due to the earthquake in Cebu last night. We also pray for the quick recovery of the strength and health of the wounded.’

At least 26 were reported dead and 147 were reported injured due to the earthquake as of 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 1, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s latest situational report.

No casualties in Central Visayas jails – BJMP

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology – Central Visayas (BJMP 7) reported that there were no casualties among persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in jails across the region following the earthquake.

‘All persons deprived of liberty and personnel are safe and accounted for,’ the BJMP 7 said in a statement on Wednesday.

The jail bureau, however, did report that detainees and staff at its facilities in Bogo City and Medellin town were briefly evacuated before returning after confirming their safety.

Minor cracks were seen in both the Bogo City and Medellin jails, prompting the BJMP 7 to raise a red alert status over the two units.

‘The jails immediately activated Oplan Lindol, mobilized standby generators and solar lights, and placed all facilities under close monitoring,’ the BJMP explained./cb

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has deployed to Cebu one of its largest ships carrying doctors, nurses, and emergency equipment to aid victims of the deadly earthquake that struck northern part of the province on Tuesday.

The BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) was scheduled to sail from Manila on Wednesday afternoon to deliver medical teams and relief supplies to communities hardest hit by the magnitude 6.9 quake, the PCG said.

In a statement, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan said portable water desalinators would also be sent to northern Cebu to help hospitals and evacuation centers whose water systems were damaged by the quake.

‘Rest assured that the PCG will respond fast and right in support of the whole-of-nation action for the recovery of the affected communities,’ Gavan said.

Moreover, additional Coast Guard assets are being mobilized from other regions.

The Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao is sending two 44-meter vessels, while Northeastern Mindanao is dispatching another to augment ongoing operations in Central Visayas. Search-and-rescue K9 units are also being deployed: a team of seven handlers with six working dogs boarded a Philippine Air Force C-130 for Cebu City on Wednesday morning, while other SAR personnel are arriving from Cagayan de Oro and Ormoc.

3 Coast Guard members dead

The Coast Guard also confirmed that three of its members, Seaman Second Class Lawrence Palomo, Apprentice Seaman Jujay Mahusay, and Apprentice Seaman Er Cart Dacunes, died when the San Remigio Sports Complex where they were staying in collapsed during the quake. Support teams have been dispatched to assist their families.

‘We extend our sincere condolences to the families of our fallen personnel. Their dedication to the service and camaraderie with our fellow uniformed men and women will always be remembered. The PCG stands in full solidarity with their loved ones and will ensure that they receive the utmost support,’ PCG Commandant Gavan said.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said on Wednesday that the earthquake left ‘as high as 60’ people dead across northern Cebu. The council, however, cautioned that the numbers remain subject to validation as reports continue to arrive from the ground.

The NDRRMC said assessments of damaged infrastructure are also ongoing as search and rescue operations continue

Being part of an industry that rarely slows down, Regine Tolentino and Aubrey Miles shared that, at this point in their careers, they have already learned the value of stepping away from the spotlight to recharge, especially now that they are both dedicated mothers and wives to their families.

Tolentino, who is a self-confessed workaholic, admitted she often has to be reminded by her children to take a break.

‘My kids keep me grounded. I can sometimes feel the need to move around and accomplish something, but they’re the ones who remind me to slow down and relax,’ she said in a statement sent to Inquirer Entertainment.

Tolentino noted that downtime for her usually means staying home with family, as she described herself as a ‘staycationer’ who enjoys recharging in her own space.

‘Sometimes my kids pamper me with food and rest, so they really help me find balance,’ she said, sharing the name of a rental penthouse in Makati that she and her family like to stay in from time to time.

Tolentino, who rose to fame as a TV host and performer, is now a mother of three. She gave birth to her third daughter via C-section at age 41 in the middle of a pandemic.

Meanwhile, Miles admitted that while she and her family enjoy staying at home, they also like stepping out for occasional getaways once in a while.

‘Every now and then, it’s so refreshing to step away from our usual routine to reset and refocus. We love our home, of course, but sometimes it’s just nice to be outside-and give the kids something a little different too,’ Miles shared.

Miles is married to actor Troy Montero. They share two children, Rocket and Hunter. The actress also has another son named Maurice from a previous relationship.

In 2022, the celebrity couple revealed that their daughter Rocket was diagnosed with autism. Earlier this year, the pair shared that Rocket underwent stem cell therapy and was able to achieve great progress after months of treatment for her condition.

Miles last appeared in the TV series ‘Shining Inheritance’ and ‘Sins of the Father.’ /ra

Every December, it feels like the calendar speeds up. Work deadlines bleed into gift shopping lists, the group chats never stop buzzing, and suddenly, the season that is supposed to be about warmth and togetherness feels more like another race against time.

For many of us, the holidays can feel like they have lost that glowing magic of Christmas past-when decorating the tree was a family affair, when twinkling lights filled us with awe, and when the simple act of being home felt like the season’s greatest gift.

This year, there is a way to bring that magic back. SM Home’s 2025 Magic of Christmas collection is all about recapturing the charm, joy, and love that make the holidays worth slowing down for. With six distinct themes, the collection offers more than just décor. It is an invitation to create moments that feel like home again, where every ornament tells a story and every detail brings a spark of wonder.

Here is a closer look at the curated themes that promise to transform your space and remind you of what makes the holidays truly special.

Golden elegance for the luxe decorator

Gold has a way of transforming a room, catching light like candle flames flickering against polished glass. Golden elegance channels that same radiance with rich hues of gold and brown paired with ornaments that glow against warm tones.

The look comes alive when textures are layered-think glossy baubles set against matte finishes, sequined details, or velvety accents. Oversized bows and poinsettia ornaments break up the metallic palette with sculptural dimension, while a Christmas village glowing on a console or gilded lanterns at the table extend the shimmer across the room. It is a style that turns any gathering into an occasion where evenings are remembered for their sparkle, laughter, and charm.

Design tip: Balance shine with texture. Mix metallic ornaments with matte and fabric finishes, then anchor the space with statement accents like poinsettias, bows, or lanterns for depth.

Enchanted Christmas for the dreamer

There is something undeniably magical about a tree dressed in rich reds, velvety purples, and sparkling jewel tones. Enchanted Christmas is a theme that feels plucked from a storybook, where butterflies alight on branches, crystal berries catch the light, and ornaments shimmer like treasures from a forgotten kingdom.

Butterfly ornaments can add an ethereal touch as they appear to flutter through the tree, while plush characters such as a sitting reindeer, a snowman, or even Santa lend depth and a touch of whimsy when tucked into unexpected corners. Layering these elements transforms the space into a fantasy landscape where every glance reveals something new.

Design tip: Build a jewel-toned base, then layer butterflies and plush characters to create movement and dimension.

Whimsical holidays for the playful family

Pastel pinks and powder blues bring a sugar-spun charm to the season in a look that feels straight out of a storybook. This theme revels in childhood nostalgia with candy house ornaments, scoops of ice cream, pastel nutcrackers, cake slices, and oversized candy canes tucked among the branches.

Let the magic continue around the room with blush and powder blue wreaths softening the walls, gingerbread villages brightening tabletops, and pastel figurines scattered across shelves and consoles to create an immersive, confectionery wonderland.

Design tip: Work with scale and texture to keep the look dynamic by using oversized candy ornaments, paired with smaller frosted baubles. These bring rhythm, while velvet ribbons, plush wreaths, and cushioned throws anchor the palette with warmth.

Crystal wonderland for the modern cool

Cool, crystalline, and endlessly elegant, crystal wonderland captures the essence of winter with a palette of silvers, frosted whites, and icy blues. Ornaments look as though carved from ice itself, with faceted baubles, shimmering icicles, and delicate snowflakes sparkling like frozen lace.

Let the theme extend seamlessly across the home with metallic garlands along mantels, mirrored votives casting a frosty glow, and crystal figurines perched like treasures in plain sight. Layering glass, silver, and translucent accents creates a cohesive, luminous look that feels sleek and sophisticated-a modern take on a white Christmas.

Design tip: Play with reflection and light. Pair frosted ornaments with high-shine silver pieces to add dimension, and weave in snowflake details at different scales for a cohesive winter motif.

Bear-y Merry Christmas for the young at heart

Sometimes, Christmas is all about nostalgia and pure charm, and nothing captures it quite like teddy bears in every size and color. This theme layers classic reds, greens, and whites with bear ornaments tucked into sleighs, hanging from ribbons, or peeking out from branches. Plush bears perched on tabletops, nestled into wreaths, or arranged around gathering spaces create a whimsical, storybook-like atmosphere, inviting everyone to step into a world of festive imagination.

Enhance the tale by pairing them with equally enchanting accents such as a vintage-style television village, a classic train table centerpiece, or miniature cottages dotted across mantels. Together, these pieces transform the home into a living Christmas story, where every corner sparks memory, wonder, and the delight of holiday magic.

Design tip: Cluster teddy bear ornaments for impact, then layer in nostalgic accents like a train table, village scene, or even vintage-inspired wreaths to amplify the storybook feel.

Festive holiday for the timeless traditionalist

Nothing says Christmas like the classics-deep reds, forest greens, and the familiar cast of Santa, snowmen, and gingerbread men. Festive holiday embraces the timeless symbols of the season, filling the home with layers of tradition and warmth.

Garland-draped banisters, stockings by the mantel, and tabletop vignettes glowing with Santa figurines and gingerbread houses make the space both nostalgic and celebratory. It is a style that honors rituals, colors, and icons that never go out of season.

Design tip: Let Santa, snowmen, and gingerbread men take center stage, then frame them with classic red-and-green accents and cozy knit textures for contrast.

Discover the full Magic of Christmas collection, where every piece goes beyond décor to bring warmth, wonder, and festive charm into your home. From enchanting ornaments to storybook-inspired accents, browse a curated selection that invites you to create moments that are truly magical this holiday season. Available at SM Home in the SM Store.

Before SB19 and other P-pop groups ever graced the concert stage, there were the Universal Motion Dancers (UMD) and Streetboys who have amassed a solid fandom behind them.

UMD, Streetboys, and other popular 70s, 80s, and 90s Filipino dance legends, as well as some iconic artists are raring for a 2025 grand reunion, and they are set to appear in one major show on November 4 at the Big Dome.

Talent manager Gio Medina, who used to be an in-house dancer for ‘Eat Bulaga’ for nearly a decade back in the day, shared some details about the upcoming reunion concert during the relaunch of his salon in Quezon City over the weekend.

Medina shared that the concert will be graced by the ’90s boy groups Universal Motion Dancers or UMD (Wowie de Guzman, James Salas, Jim Salas, Gerry Oliva, Marco McKinley, and Norman Santos), Streetboys (Vhong Navarro, Danilo Barrios, Chris Cruz, and Nicko Manalo), and Manoeuvres (Joshua Zamora, Jason Zamora, Michael Flores, Jon Supan, Reden Cruz, Jhon Cruz, and Rene Sagaran).

The show’s lineup also includes renowned choreographers Geleen Eugenio, Maribeth Bichara, Mel Feliciano, and the dance duo The Aldeguer Sisters. Medina also teased the special participation of Jojo Alejar, Amanda Page, Ara Mina, Carmi Martin, Eula Valdez, Gardo Versoza, Jackie Lou Blanco, Regine Tolentino, and Roderick Paulate, among others.

Medina, who is also set to perform at the concert, said there will be more surprise guests at the upcoming reunion titled ‘D’Legends on the Dance Floor,’ as they aim to bring solid nostalgia to the fans.

‘Gardo Versoza, machete, sasayaw ng naka-heels! Ang daming pasabog. I think Sexbomb din nandoon. Lahat nandoon. Complete. Magrereminisce talaga (Gardo Versoza, machete, dancing in heels! Lots of surprises. I think Sexbomb is also there. Everyone is there. Complete. It will be a total reminisce),’ the talent manager told select members of the press. /edv

Three Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel died following the collapse of the San Remigio Sports Complex in Cebu amidst the magnitude 6.9 earthquake on Tuesday evening.

The PCG identified the fatalities as Seaman Second Class Lawrence Palomo PCG, Apprentice Seaman Jujay Mahusay PCG, and Apprentice Seaman Ert Cart Dacunes, PCG.

According to the PCG, the three were brought to the Bogo General Hospital, but were declared dead despite efforts to revive them.

‘We extend our sincere condolences to the families of our fallen personnel. Their dedication to the service and camaraderie with our fellow uniformed men and women will always be remembered. The PCG stands in full solidarity with their loved ones and will ensure that they receive the utmost support,’ PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said. ‘Department of Transportation Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez likewise extended his condolences to the officers’ families.

‘Our thoughts and prayers are with Seaman Second Class Palomo, Apprentice Seaman Mahusay at Apprentice Seaman Dacunes. The entire DOTr family commiserates with their families and the PCG family, losing 3 promising personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard.We join you in our sincere prayers,’ Lopez said.

He also recognized the service of the coast guard officers.

‘We are grateful for their faithful service to the people and their duty. [Their families] can be assured of continued support and assistance,’ Lopez added.

The Social Security System (SSS) officially launched the MySSS Card that has a dual function–an official ID and a debit card.

SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph De Claro said the MySSS Card acts would replace the long-standing Unified Multi-Purpose Identification (UMID) card.

It would also operate as a fully functional debit card linked to a savings account.

De Claro noted that the card is equipped with an EMV chip. It is integrated with the Philippine Identification System, or PhilSys, eVerify and biometric authentication.

SSS will accept applications for the MySSS Card starting Oct. 1.

RCBC, through its digital arm DiskarTech, will be the card’s first implementer. /dda

Children’s rights advocates on Wednesday renewed their call for a more independent investigation into the arrests of protesters during the Sept. 21 protests and even minors who were later determined as mere bystanders.

The Child Rights Network (CRN) said its member organizations have reported the conditions of the minors’ detention that they described as ‘unlawful.’

‘[H]owever.many of the children arrested were simply bystanders and were not paid to destroy property,’ the CRN said in a statement.

This was also in response to Interior Secretary Jonvic Remula’s claim that the minors arrested during the Sept. 21 protest were ‘paid to cause destruction,’ which prompted the CRN to urge the government to actually go after the adult perpetrators and leave the children to the mechanisms provided under the Juvenile Justice Law.

Remulla, in a statement on Sept. 23, said the incident in Mendiola was ‘not a legitimate’ protest, but insisted on the claim that it was an orchestrated act.

The CRN, however, also raised reports of physical violence against the children by state agents who arrested them, which they said was also raised to the group.

‘This underscores the need for an independent, thorough and impartial investigation to establish the truth and hold all those who committed violent acts against children accountable,’ the CRN said.

According to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), there were 95 minors who were arrested during the Sept. 21 protests, along with 217 other individuals.

The DILG said that possible charges that may be filed against them are arson, destruction of property, inciting to sedition and sedition.

Remulla also claimed that there were reports of supposed plots by rioters to burn down Malacanang.