IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay — From September to January, the Philippines glows. Streets are draped with lights, malls echo with carols, and parols — star-shaped lanterns symbolizing hope — hang from homes and government buildings alike. International media often marvel at the country’s claim to the longest Christmas season in theContinue Reading

TOKYO, Japan — Japan’s space ambitions suffered another blow on Monday after the country’s new flagship H3 rocket failed to place a navigation satellite into its planned orbit, dealing a fresh setback to a program meant to strengthen Japan’s independence in space and satellite navigation. The Japan Aerospace Exploration AgencyContinue Reading

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) has formally asked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to appoint Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. as the national government’s co-chairperson of the Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB), citing the need for continuity as the Bangsamoro region enters a critical politicalContinue Reading

MANILA, Philippines — For decades, the Philippines has been sold to the world through a familiar image: white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and island-hopping boats framed by coconut trees. While these remain undeniable strengths, they also flatten a country that is far more complex, layered, and surprising. Beyond its coastlines,Continue Reading

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay— Freshwater crabs collected in Davao Oriental, Mindanao were recently found to carry DNA of a lung-fluke parasite (Paragonimus westermani), according to researchers with the Philippine Genome Center — Mindanao. The discovery raises concerns about a neglected foodborne infection that can affect humans who consume undercooked or rawContinue Reading