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Manila Bulletin - May 19, 2025

Manila Bulletin Description:

Publisher: Manila-Bulletin-Publishing-Company

Category: Newspaper

Language: English

Frequency: Daily

Manila Bulletin is the Philippines’ Leading Newspaper. Manila Bulletin newspaper delivers latest news coverage on politics, business, economy, technology, and culture. As one of the most trusted newspapers in the Philippines, it provides in-depth analysis, expert opinions, and real-time updates on national and international events. From the latest government policies to financial insights, entertainment, and lifestyle trends, Manila Bulletin keeps you informed and engaged with stories that matter.

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In this issue

Put politics aside, focus on nation-building — Marcos SC underscores alternative dispute resolution for speedy, less costly settlement of cases PH, US ‘doubling down’ on alliance — Defense policy chief Colby PH to champion health equity as it assumes 78th WHA presidency

PH to champion health equity as it assumes 78th WHA presidency

The Philippines has committed to champion health equity in the local, regional, and global landscapes as it assumed the presidency of the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) — the first time the nation has held the position since WHA's inception in 1948.

1 mins

Put politics aside, focus on nation-building – Marcos

Following the proclamation of the 12 new senators, President Marcos said it was time to move past the midterm elections and shift efforts toward promoting his administration's development agenda.

4 mins

PH, US ‘doubling down’ on alliance

— Defense policy chief Colby

1 mins

SC underscores alternative dispute resolution for speedy, less costly settlement of cases

The Supreme Court (SC) has been encouraging litigants to adopt alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to enhance access to justice and for “a faster, more flexible, and often more cost-effective solutions than traditional court litigation.”

1 mins

Expect more thunderstorms as PH transitions to rainy season

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Sunday, May 18 said no weather disturbances are currently being monitored inside or outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

1 mins

Bong Go to prioritize higher budget allotment for PH sports

Senator-elect Christopher “Bong” Go said he will prioritize measures that would increase the budget for the country's sports sector, saying the honor athletes bring to the country was incomparable to the relatively small funding the sector receives.

1 mins

Palace vows tougher action vs crimes targeting Koreans in PH

Malacañang has assured the Korean community of stronger protection in the wake of rising violent crimes against Korean nationals residing in or visiting the Philippines.

1 mins

Mongolian FM arrives Monday for bilateral talks with Manalo

Mongolian Foreign Minister Battsetseg Batmunkh will be in the Philippines from May 19 to 20 for an official visit, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.

1 mins

4 former 4Ps beneficiaries land in top 10 of Nursing Licensure exam

With hard work and support from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), four former beneficiaries have achieved a remarkable feat by placing in the Top 10 of the May 2025 Nursing Licensure Exam.

1 mins

PMA class valedictorian's mom hopes her son serves country well

Anita Ticar, mother of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Siklab-Laya” Class of 2025 valedictorian, 2nd Lt. Jessie Ticar Jr., said her son joined the academy to help their family out of poverty.

1 mins

17 foreign scammers arrested in Cebu City

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested a group of Taiwanese for their alleged involvement in scamming activities.

1 mins

Pedestrians barred from crossing San Juanico Bridge

Pedestrians will no longer be allowed to cross the iconic San Juanico Bridge that connects Samar and Leyte following concerns on its structural integrity based on recent assessments by experts, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said on Sunday, May 18.

1 mins

The holy spirit... will teach you everything

The new presence of Jesus, through the Holy Spirit that he will ask the Father to send, will complete the still limited understanding of the disciples. The Holy Spirit will not only console them but will also act as their teacher. As the disciples face the new challenges that will emerge after the Lord's death and resurrection, they will need the gift of wisdom and fortitude to carry out the command to go and proclaim God's love to all.

2 mins

Comelec's 2025 performance: A more credible mandate

The successful conduct of the 2025 midterm elections marks a significant stride in the Commission on Elections' continuing quest toward gaining a higher level of public trust and ensuring credible, efficient, and inclusive democratic exercises.

2 mins

Two Popes on social media: Navigating the digital age

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, has emerged as one of the most digitally engaged pontiffs in history.

2 mins

Nanays know best!

As the saying goes—our mothers know best.

3 mins

The key to advancing the territorial defense mission

On May 15, 2025, the 5th Infantry Division (5ID), Philippine Army, proudly celebrated its 44th Founding Anniversary.

3 mins

Laying the groundwork for the first BARMM Parliamentary election

It has been said that an election is not only a test of a nation’s character but also a gauge of its governance system.

3 mins

Vatican could be a venue for Russia-Ukraine talks, Rubio says as Pope renews offer to help

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Saturday that the Vatican could be a venue for Russia-Ukraine peace talks, taking up the Holy See’s longstanding offer after Pope Leo XIV vowed to personally make “every effort” to help end the war.

2 mins

Pope Leo XIV takes his first popemobile ride through St. Peter's Square ahead of installation

Pope Leo XIV took his first popemobile ride through St. Peter's Square on Sunday, greeting the tens of thousands of people who joined presidents, patriarchs and princes for the formal installation ceremony of history's first American pope that blends ancient ritual, evocative symbols and a nod to modern-day celebrity.

3 mins

Mexican tall ship strikes Brooklyn Bridge, snapping masts and killing 2 crew members

A Mexican navy sailing ship on a global goodwill tour struck the Brooklyn Bridge in New York on Saturday, snapping its three masts, killing two crew members and leaving some sailors dangling from harnesses high in the air waiting for help.

2 mins

Frasco pushes for ASEAN visa

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco made another push for a visa system applicable to countries that make up the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

1 mins

PH sees 87% drop in Covid-19 cases, monitors regional trends

While the Philippines is experiencing a sharp decline in Covid-19 cases, the Department of Health (DOH) said it is closely monitoring trends in Southeast Asia as some areas in the region have reported slight increases in infections.

1 mins

Suarez optimistic

Boxer Charly Suarez and his camp are hoping for favorable results from the California State Athletic Commission regarding their appeal on his controversial unanimous technical decision loss to Mexican World Boxing Organization junior lightweight champion Emanuel Navarrete last week.

1 mins

Cone hoping for Sotto

Kai Sotto has proven to be a pillar to the current composition of Gilas Pilipinas so it's only natural for head coach Tim Cone to hope to have his 7-foot-3 center back in the lineup for the FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers.

1 mins

Ready for the challenge

Pacers return to conference finals with something to prove

2 mins

Scheffler leads by 3 in PGA Championship

One swing was all Scottie Scheffler needed to send Quail Hollow into delirium Saturday, to briefly rattle Bryson DeChambeau, and to give this PGA Championship the star power it had been lacking.

1 mins

DOE wants to fix transmission plan 'mismatch'

The Department of Energy (DOE) will be locking horns with system operator National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) to resolve the “mismatch” in the country’s transmission development game plan, to ensure that the grid actually delivers where the capacities are needed.

2 mins

Bad loans ratio drops

The Philippine banking system’s gross non-performing loan (NPL) ratio dropped to its lowest level in three months, as robust growth in total bank lending helped offset a slower rise in soured loans.

2 mins

Motorcycle sales zoomed toward 600K

Nearly 600,000 motorcycles were added to Philippine roads in the first four months of the year, as demand for a more affordable mode of transportation continues to attract droves of buyers across the country.

2 mins

Sovereign wealth funds eye PH mining

As sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) abroad also eye the Philippines' mining sector, Maharlika Investment Corp. (MIC) is stepping up to serve as a vehicle for co-investments.

2 mins

PH rises to global ESCO frontline

After years of delays and half-powered commitments, the Philippine energy service company (ESCO) market is finally into high gear—helping energy-intensive businesses cut waste, boost efficiency, and usher them into the fast lane of green tech. And while at it, these energy efficiency frontrunners are also flexing the country into the global spotlight.

4 mins

Foreign debt payments drop

The Philippines’ external debt service burden declined by 34.8 percent to $1.59 billion as of end-February 2025 from $2.44 billion in the same period in 2024, data from the central bank showed.

1 mins

PSE raises 2025 capital- raising goal to P170 billion

As the local stock market is on an uptrend amid firmer investor sentiment, the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) has upgraded its capital-raising target for 2025 to about P170 billion from the previous P120-billion goal—and double the amount raised last year—even without the much-anticipated GCash initial public offering (IPO).

1 mins

DITO and TECNO join forces to make 5G connectivity accessible to all

The educational facility of San Sebastian College-Recoletos Manila will be undergoing a major digital transformation as Radenta Technologies will be providing the institution with Al solutions.

2 mins

How the HUAWEI Watch Fit 4 Pro keeps me on track - from Pilates to 10K runs

As I step into my mid-20s, I’ve always envisioned myself as the girl who, just like clockwork, wakes up early to run, joins Pilates classes without hesitation, and tracks her progress like a pro. The reality? I’m the girl who needs a constant nudge to get moving. That’s why the HUAWEI Watch Fit 4 Pro has been a total game-changer. It’s not just a watch —it’s my ultimate fitness bestie The Watch Fit 4 Pro perfectly balances sleek, modern design with practicality. It is lightweight, features a breathable strap, and is comfortable enough to wear all day. Plus, the sapphire glass display adds a premium touch without compromising durability —definitely worth every penny.

3 mins

APEC Trade chiefs urge sweeping WTO reforms

Trade chiefs of the 21 member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) issued a joint statement calling for strategic reforms in international trade as the region grapples with uncertainties driven by two of its members: China and the United States (US).

1 mins

BTS’ Jin seeks genuine empathy in latest album

Jin of K-pop boy group BTS released his second solo album titled \"Echo,\" BigHit Music said Friday.

1 mins

Zaijian Jaranilla & Jane Oineza go daring in new digital series

You may remember actor Zaijian Jaranilla as the adorable orphan from the 2009 tearjerker \"May Bukas Pa\" on ABS-CBN. Now 23, Zaijian is all grown up and is taking on steamier scenes in the upcoming Puregold digital series \"Si Sol at si Luna,\" which will premiere on YouTube on May 31 at 7 p.m.