The Philippine Star - April 13, 2025

In this issue

April 13, 2025

Anti-deepfake, scam detector app coming - Palace

An app that could detect scams and deepfakes is expected to be available ahead of the May elections, according to Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro.

1 min

Bishops set to consecrate Phl to Divine Mercy

The country's Catholic bishops will consecrate the Philippines to the Divine Mercy on April 27 as the Church celebrates Jubilee Year 2025.

2 mins

Pilita Corrales, Asia's Queen of Songs, dies at 85

\"Asia's Queen of Songs\" Pilita Corrales has passed away at the age of 85. Granddaughter Janine Gutierrez made the announcement on her social media page yesterday. The cause of her death has not been publicly revealed.

2 mins

Hot, humid conditions to persist

The country will continue to experience warm and humid conditions, with chances of isolated thunderstorms in parts of Mindanao and the Visayas due to the easterlies, or warm winds originating from the Pacific Ocean, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration reported yesterday.

2 mins

Ang See Wants Overhaul of AKG

In the aftermath of the kidnap-slay of Filipino-Chinese steel magnate Anson Que and his driver, a leading anti-crime crusader is pushing for a complete overhaul of the Philippine National Police (PNP)'s anti-kidnapping unit.

2 mins

Marcos orders military: Maintain peace, security during election season

During his visit to the troops of the Army's 6th Infantry Division (6ID) at Camp BGen. Gonzalo H. Siongco in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, President Marcos directed the military to help safeguard peace and security nationwide during election season.

1 min

DSWD to provide counseling to Myanmar OFWs

The psychological first aid (PFA) team of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) arrived in Myanmar on Friday to provide counseling to the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28.

1 min

Early holiday, more fans: Schools adapt to climate change

Kindergarten teacher Lolita Akim fires up five standing fans with three more at the ready as she fights to hold the attention of her pint-sized pupils in Manila’s soaring heat.

3 mins

Lawmakers Welcome Signing of DEPDev Law

Members of the House of Representatives welcomed yesterday President Marcos' signing of the law creating the Department of Economy, Planning and Development or DEPDev as a reorganization of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

2 mins

DMW assures seafarers in South Korea of legal aid

The 20 Filipino crew members of a ship currently under investigation by South Korean authorities for allegedly carrying cocaine will be provided with additional legal assistance, aside from the legal team sent by the shipping company, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said yesterday.

1 min

The history of tariffs

The topic of \"tariffs\" has been the main subject of conversation in almost every single corner of the world ever since President Donald Trump announced early in March that he would be imposing heftier tariffs on Canada and Mexico.

4 mins

From Clark to Suzuka

EYES WIDE OPEN

3 mins

Safe vacation

EDITORIAL

1 min

When we watch 'Pinoy Big Brother,' we're really watching ourselves

Point of view

7 mins

South Korean Couple Nabbed for Large-Scale Bank Fraud

A couple from South Korea, wanted for large-scale online bank fraud, was arrested last week, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported.

1 min

Dengue cases drop in QC

Months after the declaration of an outbreak, cases of dengue in Quezon City have dropped by around 90 percent, the local government said.

1 min

MMDA: Bus drivers pass random drug tests

No bus driver tested positive for use of illegal drugs during a recent inspection at bus terminals in Quezon City, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority reported.

1 min

SC Upholds Dismissal of Case vs Manila Cops

The Supreme Court (SC) has upheld the dismissal of complaints against Manila City police officers linked to the controversial secret jail cell discovered in Tondo in 2017.

1 min

10,300 Cops to Secure Metro Manila During Holy Week

To ensure the safety and security of people during the Holy Week, at least 10,300 police officers were mobilized in Metro Manila to safeguard places of worship and other places of convergence.

1 min

2 Grade 8 Students Stabbed Dead in Las Piñas

In yet another episode of violence in schools, two Grade 8 students of Captain Albert Aguilar National High School in Las Piñas City were stabbed dead by three of their schoolmates Friday night.

1 min

Malacañang Declares Special Holidays in 6 Areas

Malacañang has declared special non-working holidays in several areas in the country for the celebration of local founding and charter anniversaries as well as festivities.

1 min

Military Intensifies Operations vs Rebels

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has intensified operations against a remaining unit of the New People's Army (NPA) in Northern Luzon.

1 min

Radio broadcaster arrested for extortion

A radio broadcaster was held for extorting P350,000 from a politician in Valencia, Bukidnon on Friday.

1 min

2 Army Intel Officers Slain in Basilan Ambush

ZAMBOANGA CITY — Two intelligence officers of the Army were killed while another was wounded in an ambush by unidentified gunmen in Tuburan, Basilan on Friday afternoon.

1 min

PM Albanese: Australia wants AUKUS submarines for deterrence, stealth

Australia is buying nuclear-powered submarines as a deterrent, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Friday, adding that the AUKUS treaty that has come under scrutiny amid US President Donald Trump's trade policy was also in the United States' interests.

1 min

Oscars to add stunt design award for 100th ceremony

After many years of impassioned calls for an Oscar recognizing the art of the stunt, the film academy has decided to give it an official award.

1 min

Iran, US Begin Nuclear Talks in Oman

DUBAI (Reuters)—Iran and the United States held high-level talks in Oman yesterday aimed at jump-starting negotiations over Tehran's fast-advancing nuclear program, with US President Donald Trump threatening military action if there is no deal.

1 min

Trump Says Physical Exam Went Well, Report Due Today

President Donald Trump, who in January became the oldest person to assume the US presidency, underwent his first physical exam of his second term on Friday and said it went well, with results set to be released today.

1 min

Recovering pope happy to get out and about - Vatican

Pope Francis was happy to get out and about this week but while his health is improving, it is too soon to confirm his participation in Easter celebrations, the Vatican said on Friday.

1 min

Justin Hangs On, Rory Catches Up

Justin Rose clung to a one-stroke lead over Bryson DeChambeau after Friday's second round of the 89th Masters while Rory McIlroy leaped into contention with a stunning back-

2 mins

Popovici, Iffland create ripples

Constantin Popovici of Romania dove closer to a triumphant revenge tour while eight-time champion Rhiannan Iffland of Australia rose to the leaderboard of the 2025 Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series yesterday at the Small Lagoon here.

2 mins

Abra clips Basilan, notches 6th win

Abra thwarted Basilan, 75-64, while Muntinlupa and Pasig remained unbeaten in the Manny Pacquiao 1xBet-MPBL 2025 Season last Friday at the Paco Arena in Manila.

1 min

Final Four within reach of Tigresses

University of Santo Tomas made quick work of University of the East, 25-19, 25-16, 25-15, to move closer to a fifth straight UAAP women's volleyball Final Four stint yesterday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

1 min

Knee surgery for Embiid

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee on Wednesday, and the team said he will be re-evaluated in about six weeks.

1 min

Tolentino provides spark for NorthPort

In his first game since copping the Best Player of the Conference plum, Arvin Tolentino turned in a near triple-double performance of 19 points, eight rebounds and 12 assists.

1 min

Like old times for PBA greats

Like kids to newly-arrived playmates, members of the old PBA’s “Greatest Players” welcomed the 10 new additions to the elite club with open arms and sincere smiles.

2 mins

'Ironman' owes it all to PBA

It was the late sportscaster Dick Ildefonso who called Jimmy Noblezada the \"Ironman\" as a tribute to a bruising style that made him a defensive byword during his PBA days from 1975 to 1981.

2 mins

Austria Inspired by Dante

San Miguel Beer coach Leo Austria was reunited with his former Shell coach Dante Silverio at the PBA's 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner in Solaire North last Friday and found inspiration to bring the Beermen back in title contention after its 22-conference playoff streak was snapped in the recently-concluded Commissioner's Cup.

1 min

ANGELS ON CLOUD NINE

Mission accomplished.

1 min

Ban on Induction Furnace in Steel Manufacturing Sought

Amid the threat of the \"Big One,\" the Marcos administration should ban the induction furnace (IF) process in steel manufacturing as this results in substandard products that compromise public safety, according to experts.

2 mins

DBM releases 81% of P6.3-T budget

The government has released P5.1 trillion or roughly 81 percent of the record P6.326 trillion allocation this year as state agencies move to implement their respective projects.

2 mins

Pinoy online sellers lag behind in AI use

IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

1 min

Revisiting the Masungi Georeserve

I did it with family and friends on April 9, Araw ng Kagitingan, as a way to show our support for the Masungi Georeserve Foundation led by sisters Ann and Billie Dumaliang.

3 mins

Blue Economy Crucial in Achieving Food Security

Pursuing a blue economy in the country is a critical factor if the government wants to achieve food security anchored on sustainable practices and eventually lift millions of Filipinos out of poverty.

2 mins

Travel freedom

If the Philippines ranks 74th in terms of travel freedom global mobility, then what does that say about us?

4 mins

Do not be late

There is just something about time and tardiness, as you will see in the following stories:

3 mins

Italpinas Unloads Stake in Renewable Energy Firm

Italpinas Development Corp. (IDC), a listed real estate developer of sustainable properties in the Philippines, is disposing its entire 25-percent stake in a renewable energy development firm to focus on its real estate business.

1 min

MacroAsia unit pursuing new water projects in Cebu

The water unit of MacroAsia Corp. has secured a P1.41-billion loan from Security Bank Corp. to fund the construction of desalination facilities in two tourist spots in Cebu.

1 min

Vivant Water gets 25-year supply deal for Metro Cebu

Vivant Hydrocore Holdings Inc. (Vivant Water) has forged a 25-year joint venture deal with the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) for water supply in the main urban center in Central Visayas.

1 min

Ban From B1

Despite growing concerns over the use of IF facilities, Magboo said no legislation has been enacted to ban the method in steel manufacturing.

1 min

Phl, France ink deals on transport, IP cooperation

The Philippines and France have signed agreements to advance the two countries' partnership in transport and intellectual property (IP).

2 mins

DTI opens exporters' certification for CREATE MORE incentives

The government is extending incentives under the CREATE MORE Act to export-oriented enterprises (EOE), according to the Department of Trade and Industry.

1 min

GOLDENBERG: MUSIC, HERITAGE AND HISTORY

If the walls and floors of Goldenberg Mansion could speak, they would tell charming stories from history.

2 mins

A Little Afternoon Music

The Goldenberg Concert Series presented by First Lady Liza Marcos features heartwarming music in a historic venue.

3 mins

Why Louie Gutierrez Loves the Fragrant Smell of Coffee

Fun fact to perk up your morning: Did you know that eight out of 10 Filipino adults consume an average of 2.5 cups of coffee every day, with 93 percent of households buying coffee every week?

1 min

Ultherapy PRIME: Heart Evangelista's secret to embracing her prime

Discover timeless beauty with Vanguard Aesthetics and Merz Aesthetics® Ultherapy PRIME. This advanced technology delivers a radiant, youthful glow with minimal discomfort, zero downtime, treatments faster by 20 percent, and long-lasting results.

3 mins

Mikee Quintos embraces healthy competition to 'slay' her role

Stereotypes help anyone navigate a whodunit or murder mystery story, while surprises keep a reader or a viewer on the edge of the seat.

3 mins

Pia Arcangel and Ivan Mayrina Open Up on Their Lives Outside the News

Working in the media industry can be hectic because reporters always go where the news is. Pia Arcangel and Ivan Mayrina always ensure they spend quality time with their respective families. Pia is the wife of sports broadcast journalist Mico Halili while Ivan is happily married to Karen Tiongson, GMA Integrated News Research head.

2 mins

What I Learned From Working With Asia's Queen of Songs

A nation mourns the loss of a legend.

2 mins

Goodbye and A Million Thanks to You, Pilita

As her granddaughter Janine Gutierrez said in her post yesterday: \"It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved Mami and Mamita, Pilita Corrales.\"

3 mins

Mitsubishi XForce GLS: Style and Thoughtful Packaging

Today's crowded subcompact crossover segment means it takes a lot to stand out from the crowd.

1 min

BAIC PH rolls out trail-ready and electrified SUVs at MIAS 2025

B40 Pro TrailMaster and B60e Beaumont rEV lead the brand's bold showcase

2 mins

Foton Showcases State-of-the-Art Lifestyle and Commercial Vehicles at MIAS 2025

Highlights the widest range of commercial EV models and passenger vehicles, available with attractive exclusive deals.

2 mins

Suzuki Philippines Unveils the All-New Dzire with Hybrid Technology at the 2025 Manila International Auto Show

Suzuki Philippines made a strong mark at the 2025 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) with the launch of the All-New Suzuki Dzire Hybrid, a stylish and smart compact sedan now equipped with Suzuki's hybrid system.

2 mins

GAC Motor Philippines Electrifies 2025 MIAS with Public Debut of M8 PHEV and Exclusive Deals

GAC Motor Philippines, led by Astara Philippines, opened its showcase at the 2025 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) with the public debut of its flagship plug-in hybrid MPV, the M8 PHEV.

2 mins

BAIC PH rolls out...

Off-Road, i-Off-Road, Ice and Snow, and Deep Snow. Off-road driving hardware and software include front and rear locking differentials, a special Wading Induction System that helps keep water from entering the air intake, Crawl Control, and Off-Road Turn Assist.

1 min

Discover the AITO M9 - the future of intelligent luxury SUVs

Are you ready to experience the forefront of modern electric vehicles? Introducing the AITO M9—a groundbreaking flagship SUV designed for discerning drivers who embrace cutting-edge technology and demand luxury, safety, and intelligent mobility in their automotive experience.

3 mins

All-New Elantra Officially Unveiled at 2025 MIAS, Now Available in Hybrid and N Line Variants

Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) officially reveals the all-new Elantra during the 20th Manila International Auto Show.

2 mins

Hyundai Staria AWD 9-seater - For those who understand

Filipinos aren't strict when it comes to the number of kids they have.

3 mins

39th Hyundai Dealership Officially Opens at Hyundai Palawan

Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) officially opens the doors to its 39th dealership, Hyundai Palawan, led by Auto Artist Inc., during its inauguration ceremony held last March 28.

1 min

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