South East Asia (SEA)

  Doraemon Run 2026 is set to bring an exciting fusion of fitness, family fun, and anime fandom to the SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City on February 15 . Organized by RUNRIO and backed by Shogakukan/Shopro , the event is expected to attract over 10,000 runners and fans , making it one of the largest themed fun runs in the Philippines this year. Participants can choose from four race categories — 1K (Kids), 3K, 5K, and 10K — catering to runners of all ages and skill levels. Whether it’s a child’s first fun run or a seasoned athlete chasing a personal record, Doraemon Run 2026 offers an inclusive and energetic atmosphere. One of the standout features of the event is its thematically designed race kits , which include custom Doraemon bibs, shirts, socks, medals, and loot bags. Runners also have the option to purchase exclusive secret merch add-ons , such as Doraemon-themed caps and umbrellas, making the experience both collectible and memorable. Beyond the race, Doraemon Run 2...

  The Philippines is struggling to regain its share of Chinese tourists, lagging behind regional competitors like Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore. Experts point to connectivity issues, economic headwinds, and lack of destination diversification as major hurdles. While other countries rapidly recover, the Philippines must implement long-term strategies to compete in the increasingly competitive Chinese travel market.

  The Philippines is rapidly positioning itself as a rising cruise tourism hub in Asia, driven by large-scale infrastructure expansion and sustainability-focused policies. New and upgraded cruise terminals are improving inter-island connectivity, making it easier for international cruise operators to include Philippine ports in regional itineraries. The country’s strategic location, combined with its diverse marine biodiversity and cultural heritage, has increased its appeal to cruise travelers seeking immersive and eco-conscious experiences. At the same time, authorities are emphasizing environmental safeguards to protect coastal ecosystems. Climate awareness is also becoming central to tourism planning. Traditional fishermen’s methods of predicting typhoons are increasingly recognized as valuable insights for coastal safety and port operations, reinforcing the Philippines’ commitment to resilient and sustainable cruise tourism growth.

  The Philippines is a country known for its warm hospitality, diverse culture, and more than 7,000 islands offering endless adventures. From its turquoise waters to its towering mountains, the archipelago provides unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Here are ten of the best destinations that showcase the nation’s beauty and charm. 1. Palawan Often crowned the world’s most beautiful island, Palawan is famous for its limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lagoons, and rich marine life. El Nido and Coron are top highlights. 2. Boracay Known for powdery white sand and vibrant nightlife, Boracay remains one of Asia’s top beach destinations. 3. Cebu A blend of history and nature, Cebu offers Spanish-era landmarks, waterfalls, whale-shark encounters, and island-hopping tours. 4. Bohol Home to the Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and pristine beaches, Bohol is perfect for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. 5. Siargao The surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao boasts perfect waves, l...

  A jeepney driver stops at a red light in Pasig, grabs his phone, and checks a message — another Lazada order confirmed. Two stalls away, a food vendor counts coins while her daughter answers tutoring calls from Japan. This is 2025 Philippines: noise, hustle, and quiet determination. Even in the richest cities, more Filipinos are working double — not out of luxury, but survival and ambition. The rise of digital work and flexible platforms has opened new doors for everyone. Here are the Top 12 Side Hustles Filipinos Start in 2025 (with average monthly earnings): Online Reselling (₱10K–₱30K) – Lazada, TikTok, and Shopee sellers dominate the market. Food Delivery or Courier Jobs (₱8K–₱20K) – Flexible and perfect for those with motorcycles. Online Tutoring (₱15K–₱40K) – Teaching English or Math to Japan, Korea, and China. Freelance Design & Writing (₱10K–₱35K) – Global clients, local talent. Affiliate Marketing (₱5K–₱25K) – Sharing links, earning commissions. ...

  Politics in the Philippines feels like the country’s pulse — always beating, always talked about. You’ll hear it on jeepneys, morning talk shows, and even at family gatherings. The same names return again and again: Marcos, Duterte, Aquino. Different faces, same legacies. In 2025, the nation’s political landscape remains a mix of tradition and transformation. The old families still hold power, but new leaders are learning to navigate the system — some through social media influence, others through quiet negotiation. This year’s list of the Top 10 Most Influential Filipino Politicians reflects not only who’s in office, but who truly shapes the country’s direction. From established dynasties to strategic newcomers, each figure represents a different side of Philippine leadership — ambition, legacy, and control. Politics here rarely changes overnight. Power rearranges itself slowly, in whispers and alliances. The familiar names remind us that influence isn’t always about winning e...

  The Philippines has become one of Asia’s most attractive destinations for affordable yet comfortable living. With its tropical weather, vibrant culture, and growing infrastructure, the country offers several cities where both locals and foreigners can enjoy quality lifestyles without overspending. Here are the 10 cheapest cities to live comfortably in the Philippines in 2025 : Dumaguete City (Negros Oriental) – Known as the “City of Gentle People,” Dumaguete offers a low cost of living, friendly community, and easy access to beaches and universities. Iloilo City – A clean, organized, and heritage-rich city with a balance of modern living and provincial calm. Cagayan de Oro – A fast-developing city in Mindanao known for its affordable rent and growing business district. Bacolod City – The “City of Smiles” boasts inexpensive food, housing, and a relaxed lifestyle. Davao City – A large, safe, and modern city with a relatively low cost of living compared to Metro...

  When people think of sunsets in Manila, Manila Bay often comes to mind. But ask the locals, and you’ll find out that there are secret spots where the view is just as stunning — minus the overwhelming crowd. These are places for peace, reflection, and pure golden beauty. Here are 10 sunset spots in Manila locals love but rarely talk about : Harbor Square (Pasay) – Across from CCP Complex, it offers a quieter bay view with reflections on the water. Seaside Macapagal Boulevard – A favorite driving route at dusk with clear horizons. Fort Santiago Walls (Intramuros) – History meets nature as the sun dips behind the Pasig River. Rooftop Bars in Makati & BGC – Chic spots where the skyline glows under golden light. La Mesa Eco Park – Forest-framed sunsets away from city chaos. Marikina Riverbanks – A calm riverside walk that glows at dusk. Parañaque Coastal Road – Stunning bay views often overlooked by travelers. UP Diliman Sunken Garden – Students lov...

  The UAE and the Philippines are not just exchanging goods—they’re building a long-term economic alliance that could reshape trade dynamics between the Gulf and Southeast Asia. The recent meeting between Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, and the Philippines Business Council signals more than just diplomacy—it’s a proactive step toward deepening private sector engagement and securing mutual growth. This move follows the landmark Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in July, which aims to slash trade barriers, boost investment, and create fresh opportunities in sectors ranging from agriculture and financial services to electrical equipment. CEPA’s potential impact is massive: projections suggest an additional US$2.4 billion boost to the UAE’s GDP and UAE exports to the Philippines hitting US$7.62 billion by 2032 . Trade data already paints a positive picture. Non-oil trade between the two nations hit US$940 million in 2024 , with m...

 In a world grappling with labor migration challenges, the UAE stands out as a beacon of progressive worker welfare, drawing international recognition—including high praise from the Philippines. Hans Leo Cacdac, Undersecretary for Welfare and Foreign Employment at the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers, recently commended the UAE for its exemplary policies and practices that uphold the dignity and rights of migrant workers. This endorsement is not only a diplomatic nod but also a significant validation from one of the world’s top labor-sending countries. The Philippines, home to millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), has long been vigilant in safeguarding its citizens working abroad. That a senior Filipino official acknowledges the UAE as a "global leader" in this arena reflects growing trust in the country’s migrant labor framework. The UAE has undertaken substantial reforms over the past decade, shifting from the criticized kafala system to a more structured,...

  Since the glittering evening of May 2, 2025, the Philippines has witnessed the rise of a queen who exudes not only beauty but depth, grace, and quiet power—Ahtisa Manalo. Crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2025 at the prestigious Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay, Ahtisa’s win is more than just a pageant triumph; it’s a celebration of a woman whose presence commands both admiration and respect. Hailing from Quezon Province, Ahtisa stood out among 65 stunning and gifted contestants from across the nation. Her sculpted features, swan-like neck, and magnetic stage presence captured the hearts of both the judges and the audience. But it wasn’t just her physical beauty that elevated her above the rest—it was her composure, confidence, and eloquence, all wrapped in a genuinely humble demeanor. This victory, however, feels like something more profound than just a title. In an era when pageantry is evolving to celebrate not only beauty but intelligence, advocacy, and authenticity, Ahtisa Manal...

  The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has officially postponed its 2025 All-Star Weekend, originally set for May 2–4 in the Davao Region. The decision comes in light of escalating political unrest following the controversial arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte . As tensions flare and security threats mount in Metro Davao, the league has opted to prioritize the safety of players, fans, and personnel. But while many support the move, others are left questioning the timing and the broader implications. On the surface, the postponement seems like the only logical choice. After all, how can a celebration of basketball take place in a region gripped by political volatility and civil unrest? The arrest of Duterte — a figure who continues to command fierce loyalty in his home turf of Davao — has sparked widespread demonstrations and a volatile public mood. Hosting a major sporting event under such circumstances could have been seen as tone-deaf, or worse, dangerously irresp...

  In a thrilling chess showdown at the 22nd Bangkok Chess Club Open, young Filipino FIDE Master Christian Gian Karlo Arca, just 16 years old, pulled off an extraordinary victory by defeating German Super Grandmaster Jan Gustafsson. The match, held at the Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel in Thailand, showcased the prodigious talent and determination of Arca, who has been steadily rising through the ranks of international chess. Arca, hailing from Panabo City, Davao del Norte, was playing with the white pieces and navigated the game with precision, winning after 39 moves in a Reti Opening. His victory is a testament to his deep understanding of the game and strategic prowess. The win pushed him to the top of the tournament leaderboard, where he now stands with a solid 3.0 points, a remarkable achievement at such a young age. Reflecting on his win, Arca shared his aspirations with fans and the chess community: “I hope I can maintain my good performance so I can maybe achieve an ...

  Filipino tennis sensation Alex Eala has once again made headlines—this time as the top seed at the 2025 Oeiras Ladies Open in Portugal. At just 19 years old, Eala’s latest milestone is not just a reflection of her talent, but a symbol of her unwavering determination and rising influence in the global tennis scene. Being seeded number one in a competitive tournament like Oeiras is no small feat. It’s a clear testament to Eala’s consistent performances and mental toughness. She’s no longer just a promising junior or a wildcard story—she’s becoming a mainstay in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) spotlight. Her climb in the rankings over the past few months has been nothing short of impressive. After finishing the 2024 season at No. 149, Eala surged to a career-high No. 138 in early 2025. That leap was fueled by a strong showing at the Workday Canberra International, where she reached the semifinals, proving that she’s capable of going deep into tournaments at higher levels. ...

 A serene Tuesday morning turned tense in the central Philippines when Mount Kanlaon erupted, spewing a thick column of ash rising to the height of 4 kilometers above ground level, prompting communities to make swift safety preparations. According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), this eruption began at around 5:51 AM. Located on Negros Island, the volcano belched a massive plume of ash and gas that drifted southwest, painting the sky with a gray haze. The eruption, though brief, left local authorities scrambling to implement safety measures for the surrounding population. Just under an hour later, the eruption ceased at 6:47 AM, but the effects were still felt as schools in the vicinity were forced to close and residents remained on alert. Mount Kanlaon , an active stratovolcano, has erupted several times in the past, and its unpredictable behavior poses a constant threat to the nearby communities. The eruption has highlighted the urgency of pr...

  In what can only be described as a breakthrough week for Philippine tennis , 19-year-old Alexandra Eala has taken the WTA world by storm. The young prodigy pulled off a jaw-dropping upset at the Miami Open quarterfinals, defeating none other than world No. 2 and four-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek in straight sets, 6-2, 7-5. The victory marks her third win over a Grand Slam champion in just seven days—a feat that signals the arrival of a true rising star on the global tennis stage. Eala's win over Swiatek wasn’t a fluke—it was a masterclass in composure, strategy, and fearless execution. From the first serve, Eala dictated the tempo, moved Swiatek around the court, and displayed a level of maturity beyond her years. But what’s truly remarkable is the context: this wasn’t just one big win. Earlier in the same week, Eala ousted 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko and current Australian Open titleholder Madison Keys. Let that sink in—three champions, all with Grand S...

  The Philippines is once again at the mercy of multiple weather systems, as PAGASA has reported that three major influences—the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), easterlies, and the northeast monsoon (Amihan)—are poised to bring widespread rains across the archipelago. While this is nothing new for a tropical country like ours, it's hard to ignore the growing urgency for preparedness, especially as climate-related disasters have become more unpredictable and damaging. The ITCZ, currently affecting southern Mindanao, is forecasted to bring scattered rains and thunderstorms over regions like Davao, Zamboanga Peninsula, Soccsksargen, and BARMM. With the possibility of flash floods and landslides due to moderate to heavy rainfall, this is not a time for complacency. What concerns me is how routine these warnings have become—and how often they are ignored until it’s too late. For many communities, particularly in the south, weather alerts are seen as background noise, often due ...

  The Philippine Navy (PN) has recently announced the extension of its partnership with the Italian Navy, emphasizing the enhancement of its surface, air, and electronic warfare capabilities. This development signals the PN’s intent to expand its multi-domain warfare expertise beyond its existing focus on anti-submarine warfare (ASW). But is this collaboration a game-changer for the country’s defense strategy, or is it merely a symbolic gesture in the face of growing regional challenges? Elevating Naval Capabilities For years, the Philippine Navy has been modernizing its fleet, but its resources have often lagged behind regional counterparts. With maritime tensions in the Indo-Pacific escalating, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, the PN’s move to strengthen ties with Italy is a crucial step toward achieving a more formidable defense posture. Italy’s naval expertise, advanced shipbuilding technologies, and electronic warfare systems could significantly bolster the PN’s capabi...

 The casting of Hollywood actor Iain Glen, famed for his role as Jorah Mormont in Game of Thrones , in the Philippine historical biopic Quezon has generated significant buzz. The announcement at Hong Kong FilMart has ignited excitement among film enthusiasts, raising questions about the impact of international actors in local historical films. A Global Spotlight on Philippine History Glen’s portrayal of U.S. Governor-General Leonard Wood, a key figure during the country’s struggle for independence, signifies a growing global interest in Philippine history. His presence in Quezon could attract international audiences who may not be familiar with the country’s colonial past, shedding light on an often-overlooked historical period. The Importance of International Collaboration The inclusion of a Hollywood star in a Filipino production is a strategic move. It provides an opportunity to merge international acting talent with the depth of Philippine storytelling. Glen’s experience in p...

The Philippine government is enhancing its tie-up with SpaceX to improve satellite broadband services and pursue future space projects. DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque met with SpaceX officials on March 5, 2025, at Hawthorne, California, to discuss plans for improving internet connectivity, promoting digital learning, as well as enhancing e-government and e-commerce services. This collaboration signals a promising step forward for the Philippines in bridging the digital divide. With Starlink’s satellite technology, remote and underserved areas will have better access to the internet, enabling economic growth, education, and improved disaster response. The Philippines, being an archipelago, faces significant challenges in infrastructure development, making satellite broadband a game-changer for millions. Moreover, this partnership opens doors for space exploration and innovation in the country. By engaging with SpaceX, the Philippines can potentially develop a local space industry, att...