A news and information service for Filipino seafarers sponsored by the All Japan Seamen's Union, International Mariners Management Association of Japan and Philippine-Japan Manning Consultative Council, Inc.
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March 4, 2026
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HEADLINES
Global Energy Prices Jump as Middle East Crisis Interrupts Shipping, Oil Production
PBBM: No global supply chain impact yet from Middle East tensions
‘Danger level’ heat index seen in Palawan
Alden Richards honored as one of the Most Valuable Taxpayers for 2025
6 ways to actually relax on vacation
FULL NEWSPAPER
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Global oil and gas prices soar as Iran crisis disrupts shipping, production
NEW YORK, March 4 ------ Global oil and gas prices jumped on as the United States-Israeli war on Iran halted energy exports from the Middle East, with Tehran attacking ships and energy facilities, closing navigation in the Gulf, and forcing production stoppages from Qatar to Iraq.
The benchmark Brent crude oil settled up US$3.66, or up 4.7 per cent, at US$81.40 a barrel, its highest settlement since January 2025. European gas prices soared as much as 40 per cent before paring gains, adding to a 40 per cent surge on Monday. Sugar, fertilizer, and soy prices have all risen too.
The conflict risks triggering a spike in inflation that could choke off economic recovery in Europe and Asia if the war is prolonged in a region that accounts for just under a third of global oil production and almost a fifth of natural gas. Price rises could also pose a political threat to US President Donald Trump and his Republicans in the November midterm elections.
Trump said the US Navy could begin escorting oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil shipping lane, if necessary, adding he had ordered the US International Development Finance Corporation to provide political risk insurance and financial guarantees for maritime trade in the Gulf. It was one of the administration’s most aggressive steps to try to contain soaring energy prices as conflict escalates in the Middle East.
Iraq, OPEC's second-largest producer, said it may be forced to cut production in a few days by more than 3 million barrels per day if oil tankers cannot move freely to loading points, according to two Iraqi oil officials. As of Tuesday, Iraq has decreased production from the Rumaila oil field by 700,000 barrels per day and cut 460,000 bpd from the West Qurna 2 field, the officials said.
SHIPPING AT A STANDSTILL
Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz was effectively closed for a fourth day after Iran attacked five ships, choking off the artery accounting for about 20 per cent of global oil and liquified natural gas (LNG) supply. Crude tanker transits through the strait fell to four vessels on Mar 1, the day after hostilities broke out, versus an average of 24 per day since January, according to Vortexa vessel-tracking data. Three of the four were Iran-flagged.
Hundreds of tankers loaded with oil and LNG are stranded near big hubs, such as the United Arab Emirates' port of Fujairah, unable to reach customers in Asia, Europe, and elsewhere. Some companies are seeking alternative routes. Saudi oil giant Aramco is attempting to reroute some crude to its western Red Sea port of Yanbu, but sources, including buyers, traders, and analysts, said Aramco's east-west pipeline had limited capacity and could become a target of attacks by Iran's allies.
On Tuesday, a fuel tank at Oman’s Duqm commercial port was hit by a drone, and a fire broke out at the UAE's Fujairah, one of the key regional oil hubs, slowing ship refueling and potentially shifting demand to other ports, including Singapore. On Monday, Qatar shut its LNG facilities, some of the world's biggest, which supply around 20 per cent of global LNG exports. Saudi Arabia suspended production at its largest domestic refinery, while Israel and Iraq's Kurdistan also shut chunks of their gas and oil output. Elsewhere, Chinese refiners have started to shut units in response to the conflict's impact on crude supply. India, one of the most dependent countries on oil and gas from the Middle East, has said it has started to ration gas supplies to industries after Qatar's production was shut down.
Source: channelnewsasia.com
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Israel-US attacks, Iran retaliation disrupt global aviation
ISTANBUL, March 4 ------ The widening conflict between Israel, the United States, and Iran has led to sweeping airspace closures across the Gulf, disrupting global air traffic through some of the world’s busiest transit hubs.
Over the past two decades, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha have developed into central transfer points linking Europe and the Americas with Asia, Africa, and Oceania. The current airspace restrictions are disrupting that role, triggering ripple effects across global long-haul air networks, while adding high operational and insurance costs for airlines worldwide.
In the early hours of Feb. 28, Israel and the US launched joint airstrikes against targets in Iran. Tehran responded by targeting US military bases and logistical facilities in several Arab countries in the Middle East, triggering widespread airspace restrictions across the region.
Airspace closures, security alerts
Airspace over Iran, Iraq, Israel, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Syria was largely closed as of Monday, according to Flightradar24, while parts of the UAE and Saudi Arabia remained only partially open. Abu Dhabi Airports said in a now-deleted post on US social media company X that an incident at Zayed International Airport left one person dead and seven others injured. The EU Aviation Safety Agency declared "high risk to civil aviation" across the region.
Thousands of flights canceled
The disruption has grounded thousands of flights. Aviation analytics firm Cirium said more than 2,000 flights to the Middle East were canceled on March 1 alone, representing about half of the day’s scheduled operations. FlightAware data showed nearly 2,800 cancellations on Saturday and more than 3,400 flights scrapped across the region’s seven main airports on Sunday. FlightGlobal described the shutdown of major Gulf hubs, including Dubai - the world’s busiest airport for international traffic - as the most acute aviation shock since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dubai International handled 92.3 million passengers in 2024. Emirates carried 43.6 million passengers in the 12 months prior to the conflict. Together with Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways, the three carriers typically handle around 90,000 transit passengers per day through their hubs, according to Cirium.
All three major Gulf carriers initially suspended operations as widespread airspace closures took effect across the Middle East. Emirates and Etihad have paused most scheduled services, with both airlines operating only a limited number of special flights, such as repatriations, while awaiting safe airspace clearance. Qatar Airways’ flights to and from Doha remain temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatar's airspace.
The carrier said it will resume service once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority confirms a safe reopening. An update is expected on March 4. Israel’s national airline, El Al, has also canceled scheduled flights amid the closure of Israel's airspace. Further operational disruptions remain possible amid the ongoing regional conflict.
Global ripple effects
The impact has extended well beyond the Gulf. Airlines across Asia and Europe have suspended or rerouted services to avoid closed airspace. Air India halted flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Amritsar to major European and North American cities and suspended services between India and several Middle Eastern destinations.
Singapore Airlines and its low-cost unit Scoot canceled Middle East flights through March 7, while Lufthansa Group suspended operations to multiple regional cities until March 8. Air France and KLM also paused services to several Gulf destinations. The Guardian reported that 115,000 Australian travelers were among those affected by the disruptions, while FreightWaves said Qatar Airways was unable to move around 13 tons of daily cargo capacity due to the suspension of operations.
According to Insurance Business, rerouted services are adding 30 to 90 minutes to certain routes, contributing to higher fuel consumption and maintenance costs, which have climbed 39 percent over the past three years.
Source: pna.gov.ph
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MARITIME NEWS
Global Energy Prices Jump as Middle East Crisis Interrupts Shipping, Oil Production
March 4 ------ Global oil and gas prices jumped on Tuesday as the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran halted energy exports from the Middle East, with Tehran attacking ships and energy facilities, closing navigation in the Gulf and forcing production stoppages from Qatar to Iraq.
The benchmark Brent crude oil contract gained nearly 8% on Tuesday to above $83 per barrel, the highest since July 2024, taking gains since Friday to more than 15%. European gas prices soared as much as 40% before paring gains, adding to a 40% surge on Monday. Sugar, fertilizer and soy prices have all risen too. The conflict risks triggering a renewed spike in inflation that could choke off economic recovery in Europe and Asia if the war is prolonged in a region that accounts for just under a third of global oil production and almost a fifth of natural gas.
Iraq, OPEC's second-largest producer, on Tuesday said it may be forced to cut production by more than three million barrels per day in a few days if oil tankers cannot move freely to loading points, according to two Iraqi oil officials. As of Tuesday, Iraq has decreased production from the Rumaila oil field by 700,000 bpd and cut 460,000 bpd from the West Qurna 2 field, the officials said.
SHIPPING AT A STANDSTILL, OIL AND GAS OUTPUT SLASHED
Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz was closed for a fourth day after Iran attacked five ships, choking off a key artery accounting for about 20% of global oil and LNG supply. Crude tanker transits through the strait fell to four vessels on March 1, the day after hostilities broke out, versus an average of 24 per day since January, according to Vortexa vessel-tracking data. Three of the four were Iran-flagged.
Hundreds of tankers loaded with oil and LNG are stranded near big hubs, such as the United Arab Emirates' port of Fujairah, unable to reach customers in Asia, Europe and elsewhere. Some companies are trying to find alternative routes. Saudi oil giant Aramco is attempting to reroute some of its crude to its western Red Sea port of Yanbu, but sources, including buyers, traders and analysts, said Aramco's east-west pipeline had limited capacity and could become a target of attacks by Iran's allies.
On Tuesday, a fuel tank at Oman’s Duqm commercial port was hit by a drone and a fire broke out at the UAE's Fujairah, one of the key regional oil hubs, slowing ship refueling and potentially shifting demand to other ports including Singapore.
On Monday, Qatar shut down its liquefied natural gas facilities, some of the world's biggest, which supply around 20% of global LNG exports, Saudi Arabia suspended production at its largest domestic refinery, while Israel and Iraq's Kurdistan also shut chunks of their gas and oil output.
Elsewhere in the world, Chinese refiners have started to shut units in response to the conflict's impact on crude supply, while India, one of the most dependent countries on oil and gas from the Middle East, has said it has started to ration gas supplies to industries after Qatar production was shut down.
RISING GASOLINE PRICES POSE POLITICAL RISKS
In the U.S., where gasoline prices are a key political pressure point, the cost jumped above $3 per gallon for the first time since November, just weeks after President Donald Trump touted his achievements in bringing prices down to $2. Higher prices at the pump mark a major risk for Trump and his fellow Republicans as they head into midterm elections in November. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Energy Secretary Chris Wright will announce plans on Tuesday to mitigate the impact of the price spike on Americans, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said.
Most Qatari LNG flows to Asia, but some also flows to Europe, which is entirely dependent on imports for its oil and gas needs. Europe is expected to scramble to replenish stocks, depleted by a cold winter, and will need to rely even more on U.S. gas, after shunning Russian gas after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Shipping rates around the world have also jumped to an all-time high as the conflict has intensified and Tehran has targeted ships passing through the strait.
ASSESSING MISSILE STOCKPILES
Western security experts are seeking to assess how many missiles and drones Iran has left to keep up the intensity of its attacks. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman and Kuwait have so far managed to intercept most missiles and drones targeting energy facilities, ports and airports but worries mount if their anti-drone and anti-missile stockpiles are running low.
Source: marinelink.com
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VLCC Rates Hit New Sky-High Record: $424,000 Per Day
March 4 ------ Rates for VLCCs were already high before the U.S.-Israeli strike on Iran last weekend, but three days after hostilities began, charterers are shattering records. On Monday, spot rates for VLCC tonnage from the Mideast to China soared well north of $400,000 per day - enough to hire a seventh-generation drillship.
VLCCs normally charter for reasonable rates in the low- to mid-five digits per day, but began to clear the $100,000 benchmark in recent weeks due to rising OPEC exports, more floating storage and lower availability. Some hulls even chartered for more than $200,000 last Friday. But those numbers paled in comparison with the $424,000 per day that one tanker brought in for a Mideast-to-China shipment on Monday, as reported by Reuters.
Ton-mile distances for the VLCC fleet are set to increase quickly. The Iranian government has officially closed the Strait of Hormuz to traffic, and tanker transits have tailed off dramatically. At one point late Monday, there were no tankers in the busy waterway at all, and dozens were grouped at anchorages on each side. (Low levels of traffic have since resumed, and U.S. officials say that there is no sign that Iran has attempted to patrol or enforce the blockade. In addition to the Iranian threat, owners are wary of getting under way without war risk insurance, and leading P&I clubs have suspended existing policies for the region effective March 5.
Without ready access to the Arabian Gulf, refiners will have to buy crude from elsewhere, often further away - for example, West Africa, the U.S. Gulf Coast, Venezuela or Brazil. The added ton-mile demand creates scarcity, resulting in higher day rates; low ordering activity in years past means that little new tonnage is coming to fill the gap in the near term.
Rates for LNG carriers are also soaring, up by 40 percent on Monday. Qatar has shut down its vast LNG plants because of the threat of Iranian strikes, cutting out about 20 percent of all global LNG export capacity. Major LNG buyers in East Asia and Europe will have to source more cargoes from alternative supply regions, like the U.S. Gulf and Australia - leading to longer voyages and vessel scarcity. European natural gas futures jumped by 50 percent on the news.
Source: maritime-executive.com
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MSC to Offload All Cargo Bound for Gulf
March 4 ------ MSC, the world's largest carrier of ocean container cargo, said on Tuesday all cargo bound for ports in the Gulf will be offloaded at the nearest safe seaport due to ongoing hostilities in the Middle East following U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran.
The move, known as an "End of Voyage" declaration, also applies to empty containers that have been released for loading with cargo and are intended for export to the ports in the Gulf, Geneva-based MSC said in a customer advisory. A mandatory surcharge of $800 per container will apply to all affected shipments, without exception, to cover deviation costs, MSC said. "MSC sincerely regrets the necessity of this decision, which arises from exceptional circumstances beyond its control," the company said.
Customers will assume responsibility for the container at the discharge port, said Lars Jensen, CEO of container shipping-focused consultancy Vespucci Maritime, on LinkedIn. That means shippers are responsible for finding alternate transportation and paying local port fees, he said.
The hostilities have caused vessels including oil tankers and container ships to back up at the critical Strait of Hormuz chokepoint, sparking worries that global fuel prices could soar. As of Sunday, 158 container ships were present in the Middle East, including the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea and the Gulf, representing just 2.1% of the current active container ship fleet, according to data from Drewry, a London-based maritime consultancy.
MSC and Ocean Network Express, known as ONE, earlier this week stopped accepting cargo bound for the affected areas in the Middle East.
Industry experts warned that the hostilities would trigger cascading delays and disruptions that could take weeks to play out as operators reroute ships, containers and other assets. "Container shipping has less to lose from the Iran conflict compared to other shipping sectors, but it cannot escape disruption and higher costs," said Simon Heaney, Drewry's senior manager of container research, in a report on Tuesday.
Source: marinelink.com
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PHILIPPINE NEWS
Philippines, South Korea sign deals on defense, agriculture
MANILA, Philippines, March 4 ------ President Marcos met with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at the start of the latter’s two-day state visit, which saw the signing of 10 agreements on key sectors, including defense, nuclear energy and technology.
The agreements come as both nations vowed to deepen their 77-year-old ties cemented by their common experiences during the Korean War. These include the memoranda of understanding (MOU) between the Department of Information and Communications Technology and South Korea’s Ministry of Science and Information and Communications Technology on digital cooperation; between the Department of Economy, Planning and Development and the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs on technology, digitalization and innovation program; cooperation in the field of patriots and veterans affairs between the Department of National Defense and South Korea’s Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs; between the Department of Agriculture and the South Korean Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs on cooperation in the field of agriculture; and Amendment Number 2 to the Implementing Arrangement between the DND and the South Korean Defense Acquisition Program Administration concerning the procurement of certain defense materials.
President Marcos and Lee also witnessed the inking of MOU between the Department of Trade and Industry and South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Resources on trade, investment and economic cooperation; between the DTI of the Republic of the Philippines and the South Korean Ministry of Intellectual Property for reinforced cooperation in the field of intellectual property; on cooperation on the special program in foreign language in Philippine schools between the Department of Education and South Korea’s Ministry of Education; on cultural cooperation between the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the South Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism; and between the Philippine National Police and the Korean National Police Agency on police cooperation.
Marcos noted that Manila and Seoul’s decades of cordial and productive relations, elevated to a strategic partnership in 2024, span various areas of mutual interest. “We agreed that we have made significant strides in advancing and deepening our bilateral cooperation towards the attainment of our mutually beneficial goals,” he said.
During his bilateral meeting with Lee, Marcos pointed out that the South Korean leader’s visit coincides with the 77th anniversary of the two countries’ diplomatic relations. “Our ties were tested by a history of sacrifice now made more dynamic by our common commitment to freedom, peace, and prosperity. The Philippines will always remember how our friendship was forged during the Korean War when we sent our men to fight alongside our people,” he said. “That bond cemented in solidarity during very difficult times continues to guide our strategic partnership.” he added.
Lee called the Philippines “an old friend and a key partner nation to Korea.” “President Marcos and I have agreed to deepen substantial cooperation in areas of trade, infrastructure, and defense industry, as well as expand cooperation in new strategic sectors for growth, such as shipbuilding, nuclear power, and AI (artificial intelligence),” Lee said. “We have also agreed to strengthen substantial cooperation in the field of nuclear power. Building on the results of the feasibility study for the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant resumption and the MOU for cooperation on new nuclear power projects, we will become optimal partners for nuclear power cooperation,” the South Korean president added.
Source: philstar.com
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PPA vows operational readiness amid PH port operation concerns over Middle East tensions
March 4 ------ The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has recorded no direct operational or routing disruptions affecting any port of the country following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Located between Oman and Iran, the Strait of Hormuz is a major route for global oil trade, and experts said its prolonged closure could lead to disruption in global shipping routes. As far as the operation of Philippine ports is concerned, PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago said the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has not resulted in operational disruptions within the domestic port system.
He said port operations remain fully operational as he explained that shipments from the Middle East, particularly those originating from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Iraq, are largely energy-related. “Exposure is primarily crude oil, refined petroleum products, and LNG. There are also some petrochemicals and fertilizer imports, as well as limited containerized cargo from Gulf transshipment hubs such as Jebel Ali, but the bulk of the strategic exposure is energy-related,” said Santiago.
But Santiago said increases in freight service cost may be expected should tensions further escalate. “There is no direct operational routing issue affecting our ports. However, any disruption in global shipping routes could affect freight rates, bunker costs, and eventually cargo volumes,” he said. He, however, assured the public of the ongoing efforts to cushion any adverse effects of prolonged Middle East tensions. “The Philippine Ports Authority reiterates its commitment to closely coordinate with shipping lines, port operators, and relevant government agencies to monitor global developments and ensure the uninterrupted movement of trade through Philippine ports,” said Santiago.
Currently, he said the Philippine port system is firmly supported by sustained cargo growth. In 2025 alone, PPA data revealed that cargo throughput rose by six percent to 307.64 million metric tons, driven by increased demand for construction materials and petroleum products. Santiago said the growth reflects continued infrastructure activity and stable demand across key sectors of the economy.
Source: mb.com.ph
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PBBM: No global supply chain impact yet from Middle East tensions
MANILA, March 4 ------ President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said there is no significant disruption yet in the global supply chain despite escalating tensions in the Middle East. In a press conference at Malacañan Palace in Manila, Marcos described the situation as “very fluid and volatile,” noting that information reaching the government remains limited as the conflict area is a war zone.
Marcos said potential increases in consumer goods would depend on the duration of the crisis. He said oil price shocks take time to move through the system before daily consumers feel the impact on basic commodities. “It will take time for any of the effects of the oil price shocks to work through the system. And of course, the prayer that we have is that before they work their way through the system, matapos na ito so that hindi na masyadong maramdaman ng taumbayan,” Marcos said. “Kasi kung matagal ito, doon mararamdaman,” he added.
Marcos noted that the government has prepared various scenarios, with estimates from the United States (US) suggesting the conflict could last four to five weeks. He expressed optimism that the crisis would end soon, saying normalization of commerce and oil production would help ease pressures. While projections remain uncertain, Marcos said government agencies are preparing more detailed assessments as developments unfold.
Marcos added that the government is also monitoring the dollar’s movement, noting that remittances are sent in US currency, although the peso has remained stable so far. “But again, please understand that itong mga numero na sinasabi natin ay hindi pa tayo nakakatiyak dahil hindi natin nalalaman kung gaano katagal pa mangyayari ito, gaano katagal pa bago babalik, gaano katagal pa ‘yung presyo ng langis ay wala tayong kontrol as you all know,” he said.
Source: philstar.com
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Provisional fare hike possible if diesel hits P60/liter amid Middle East war - LTFRB
MANILA, March 4 ------ The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said it may grant a provisional fare hike for all modes of public transport should regular diesel prices hit P60 per liter amid the ongoing Middle East war. This is to cushion the impact of rising oil prices on public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators, while still keeping in mind the welfare of passengers, LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza said.
He added that a fare hike could be withdrawn "immediately" if fuel prices eventually drop, saying they do not want to "overcharge" passengers. Meanwhile, if local oil firms agree to implement staggered fuel price hikes, Mendoza said the provisional fare increases can also be done in phases. Mendoza said the LTFRB would have to consult first the labor and socioeconomic agencies regarding the possible provisional fare increase since they also need to take into consideration the inflationary impact of such a move.
Based on the current situation, Mendoza is looking at a less than P1 provisional fare hike for jeepneys. But he said that other modes of public transportation could be granted a bigger increase. The last fare determination for P2P or point-to-point buses was done in 2014 or more than a decade ago, Mendoza noted. "They haven't gotten any fare increase despite the fact that fuel prices and maintenance costs have gone up and down. So the adjustment may be a little bit bigger," he said.
But the LTFRB stressed that its first recourse would be to provide fuel subsidies for PUVs instead of raising fares. Mendoza assured beneficiaries that they are now more prepared to start releasing fuel subsidies once the price of Dubai crude oil hits $80 per barrel in accordance with the law. "We are more ready than before, in the sense na ang dami na nating prep work na ginagawa, not only here in the central office, but even down to the ground, yung regional offices natin, na masama lahat ng dapat isama," he said. "As soon as the funds are out, ibaba na kaagad namin yan. Ang hinihintay lang nila, araw, hindi linggo," added Mendoza.
The LTFRB also guaranteed that even unconsolidated jeepneys would be given fuel subsidies.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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Global airspace shutdown hits Philippines' mail to 35 countries
MANILA, Philippines, March 4 ------ The Philippine Postal Corp. has temporarily suspended all international outbound mail services to 35 countries due to escalating military conflict in the Middle East.
In an advisory, PHLPost said the suspension takes effect immediately and covers all classes of mail, including standard letters, parcels and Express Mail Service shipments. The disruption affects destinations across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and South America.
PHLPost said the suspension is due to airspace closures in key transit hubs, particularly Dubai in the United Arab Emirates and Doha in Qatar. "These closures have disrupted primary air transport routes used by PHLPost, its international and airline partners," the agency said. PHLPost assured the public it is prioritizing the security of mail items while taking steps to prevent major service backlogs. "The Philippine Postal Corporation assures the public that it continues to prioritize the security of customers’ mail while implementing necessary measures to prevent significant service delays at this point in time," it said.
Affected destinations
The suspension covers the following countries:
- Middle East and Africa: Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Nigeria, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia (Dammam, Jeddah, Riyadh), South Africa and the UAE (Dubai).
- Europe: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Spain and Switzerland.
- Asia: Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
- South America: Brazil and Colombia.
PHLPost said it will issue further updates once international transit routes stabilize.
Source: philstar.com
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2025 budget deficit swells to P1.58 trillion
MANILA, Philippines, March 4 ------ The government saw a wider budget gap of P1.58 trillion last year, exceeding its programmed deficit despite tempered public spending, which offset lower revenue collection. The budget shortfall was 4.7 percent wider than the P1.51 trillion gap recorded in 2024, as expenditures slightly outpaced revenue growth, data from the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) showed.
Last year’s budget deficit also exceeded the government’s forecast of P1.56 trillion by 0.97 percent based on the Cabinet-level Development Budget Coordination Committee meeting in June 2025. The BTr said the revenue shortfall was partly cushioned by government spending that fell below programmed levels amid corruption in flood control projects.
The budget deficit, when measured against the gross domestic product (GDP), eased to 5.63 percent last year from 5.7 percent in 2024, “underscoring continued progress in the government’s fiscal consolidation efforts.” In December 2025 alone, the budget deficit narrowed by nearly five percent to P313.2 billion from P329.5 billion in December 2024.
A budget deficit occurs when government expenditures exceed revenue collections, meaning the state spends more money than it generates. This year, the economic team aims to bring the budget deficit to P1.61 trillion and cut the deficit-to-GDP ratio to 5.3 percent. Government expenditures rose by 1.8 percent to P6.03 trillion in 2025 from P5.93 trillion in 2024, outpacing revenue growth. This was due to higher allocations for the National Tax Allotment to local government units, interest payments and personnel services expenditures, which offset reductions in subsidies to state-run firms and other primary expenditures.
Despite this, expenditures remained below the programmed P6.08 trillion target by 0.85 percent, due to the “proactive fiscal management, including stricter oversight on infrastructure projects linked to corruption scandals.” Primary expenditures were up 0.08 percent to 5.17 trillion, while interest payments rose by 13.2 percent to P864.1 billion.
On the other hand, government revenues inched up by 0.78 percent to P4.45 trillion in 2025 against the P4.42 trillion in 2024. Total revenues fell short of the P4.52-trillion program by 1.5 percent, as the P69.8 billion over-performance in non-tax revenues was not enough to offset the P136.8 billion shortfall in tax collections. Tax collections, accounting for the bulk or 92 percent of the total revenue haul, increased by 7.3 percent to P4.08 trillion last year.
The BIR posted a 9.1 percent increase in full-year intake to P3.11 trillion, driven by stronger collections from corporate income tax, personal income tax and value-added tax, documentary stamp tax and excise tax on tobacco. However, the BIR fell short of the revised full-year target of P3.22 trillion by 3.41 percent. Still, the agency said it met the downgraded target of P3.101 trillion. ”The underperformance was partly due to a pause in payments for infrastructure-related government contracts amid investigations into flood control projects, which affected withholding taxes, as well as a temporary suspension of audit operations,” the BTr said.
The Bureau of Customs posted a modest 1.8 percent increase in collection to P932.7 billion last year. Non-tax revenues plunged by 39.2 percent to P376.3 billion in 2025. Income generated by the Treasury also sank by 17.7 percent to P233.2 billion due to the base effect of non-recurring windfall receipts in 2024 and the impact of interest rate cuts on income from investments and deposit earnings. Collection from other offices, including privatization proceeds and fees and charges also slid by 57.3 percent to P143.1 billion.
Source: philstar.com
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‘Danger level’ heat index seen in Palawan
MANILA, Philippines, March 4 ------ Residents of Coron in Palawan may likely experience a “danger level” heat index of 42 degrees Celsius today, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.
PAGASA said most parts of the country may experience “extreme caution” heat index or a temperature of 33 to 41 degrees Celsius. A “danger level” heat index ranges from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius. Exposure to “danger level” heat index with continued activity may result in heat stroke.
Meanwhile, the northeast monsoon or amihan will bring partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains over Batanes and Babuyan Islands. Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur as well as Metro Manila will have cloudy skies with scattered rain and thunderstorms due to the easterlies.
Source: philstar.com
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Choose right leaders in 2028 polls, Pinoy youth urged amid West PH Sea issue
March 4 ------ One of the biggest contributions of the Filipino youth in the country’s fight to assert sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea is to go out and vote in the 2028 national elections, an official of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.
Not just go and vote. According to PCG spokesman for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela, the Filipino youth voters must choose the candidate that will protect the interest of the country on the issue. “The biggest responsibility is to go out and vote, carefully select national leaders, members of the Senate and the district representatives. That is your biggest contribution,” Tarriela told students in a recent youth forum. “Let us stop the practice of voting for candidates because they gave us groceries and noche buena items. That is not their money, that is our money. We have to make sure that they will no longer fool us,” he added.
During the forum, Tarriela emphasized the role of the Filipino youth is sustaining the fight to ensure that not a single inch of Philippine territory is lost to foreign powers amid the the West Philippine Sea issue. Amid the disinformation drive on social media, which Tarriela described as intended to weaken the position of the Philippines on the issue, he said the youth must stand up and push back.
And right now, there is a need to ensure the continuity in asserting the country’s sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea through the Filipino youth especially amid the disinformation drive that has been targeting Filipinos themselves. “The West Philippine Sea is not disputed, it is ours. How can we convince the Chinese government that the West Philippine Sea is ours if we even doubt our own position,” said Tarriela.
Quoting former Supreme Court associate justice Antonio Carpio, the official said the fight for the West Philippine Sea is intergenerational—which means that the issue will not be resolved in the matter of years and even decades. “The reason we need to reach out to more people, to be more educated, to be more aware of what we are fighting for is because the issue of the West Philippine Sea will never go away that early, not even in our lifetime," said Tarriela. “This will be an issue that will be passed on to the next generation. And the important thing that we need to do right now is to hold the line to make sure that the younger generation still have a West Philippine Sea to stand on,” he stressed.
Source: mb.com.ph
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ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
Ariella Arida says role as MUPH national director helps her uplift women
March 4 ------ Ariella Arida said her role as national director of Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) allows her to celebrate and uplift women all year round, not just during Women’s Month.
Speaking with Inquirer Entertainment during the recent contract signing of MUPH with their official women’s health partner, Arida shared that her experience working closely with candidates has deepened her belief in women’s empowerment. “Women’s empowerment, I’m so happy that we keep on celebrating it even if it’s not Women’s Month, especially with MUPH,” she said. “It made me believe more in women and helping each other, especially in this kind of competition.”
Arida emphasized that while pageants are often seen as arenas of rivalry, she has witnessed how candidates learn from and uplift one another. “People think you’re competitors with each other, but you know what, you will get the biggest learning from each other,” she said. “Here in the pageants, it helps the girls bring the best out of each other.”
Now in her second year as MUPH national director, Arida described the journey as both exciting and challenging. She admitted that the transition into leadership came with “mixed emotions.” “During the first year, I still needed to adapt, to adjust, but then the people around me really helped me so much. So it’s more fun; of course, there are challenges, but it’s part of the process, it’s part of the growth,” she said. “Being in this position, I learned so much, and it helps me grow as a woman myself.”
Arida also expressed enthusiasm over this year’s batch of delegates, describing them as a mix of “raw faces” and “towering queens.” According to her, the competition will be tough. As for her advice to the delegates, the Miss Universe 2013 third runner-up urged them to give their all in pursuit of their dreams. “You’re here because you’re fighting for your dreams, so make sure it’s definitely worth your journey,” said Arida. Drawing from her own pageant experience, she encouraged candidates “to overcome self-doubt and have fun.”
Fifty-one MUPH delegates are competing to succeed Ahtisa Manalo, who was proclaimed third runner-up in the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand last year. The new queen will compete in the international competition in Puerto Rico later this year.
Source: inquirer.net
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Krystal Mejes plans to donate part of P500k PBB cash prize
March 4 ------ Krystal Mejes already knows where a portion of her P500,000 cash prize from "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0" is headed, and it's close to her heart. In an interview with GMA News Online, the Kapamilya Second Big Placer shared that giving back is one of her top priorities.
"Gusto ko po siyang ibigay sa charity to help those na nangangailangan po. And then to my family and savings for my younger brother," Krystal said.
While she has yet to finalize a specific organization, Krystal revealed that she is strongly considering causes that support senior citizens. "May pinagpipilian pa lang po ako ngayon. But my heart is gravitating towards the elderly people," she said.
Beyond her charitable plans, Krystal also opened up about the emotional journey she went through inside Kuya's house, including the one housemate who first saw her most vulnerable side.
Source: gmanetwork.com
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Alden Richards honored as one of the Most Valuable Taxpayers for 2025
March 4 ------ Alden Richards was honored as one of the country’s Most Valuable Taxpayers for 2025 at the 2026 Tax Campaign Kick-off organized by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), which took place at the Jose Rizal Coliseum.
In his speech, Alden expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that the award goes beyond personal achievement. "I'm deeply humbled and grateful po to be recognized as one of your most valuable taxpayers of 2025. This award is not just a personal achievement, actually. It's a reminder po of our shared responsibility bilang mamamayan ng ating bansa," Alden remarked in his speech during the event, as seen in a video posted on Instagram. He added, "Naniniwala po ako that paying the right taxes is more than just a legal obligation. It's a commitment to nation-building.”
Alden also highlighted how tax contributions support essential government services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social programs that uplift communities across the Philippines. "When we pay our taxes honestly and on time, we actively take part in shaping a better future for every Filipino," he noted.
Recognizing the influence of public figures, Alden expressed hope that his recognition would inspire others to fulfill their tax obligations faithfully. "I hope that through this recognition, more individuals, especially those in the private sector and the entertainment industry, will be encouraged to fulfill their tax obligations faithfully and transparently,” he stated.
The actor added, "Being a responsible taxpayer is something we should all take pride in. Dapat po nating ipagmalaki ang ating pagiging taxpayer." Aside from being an actor, Alden enrolled last year in an aviation school in Pampanga to become a pilot.
Despite his demanding showbiz schedule, Alden is confident he can balance it with aviation school through effective time management. "There's no such thing as a busy schedule when you make time, and you have time management. Time management is the key. Definitely this year for ground school and then tuluoy-tuloy na 'to. This will be a two-year course, and after I graduate, I'm gonna be able to fly a commercial plane," he highlighted in a past interview on 24 Oras.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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SPORTS NEWS
Creamline repels upset-conscious Galeries Tower in four sets
March 4 ------ NO upset this time as Creamline shut the door on a surging Galeries Tower side, 25-14, 17-25, 25-18, 25-23, in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference at the Playtime Filoil Centre. Wary of the upset-minded Highrisers, the Cool Smashers delivered a performance stable enough to secure their fourth win and stay firmly in the hunt for the top four places. And it was an unrelenting 12-1 start to the fourth frame that slammed the door shut as a fitting response to being silenced in Set 2.
Since that conference-opening loss to PLDT, the 10-time champions have steadily rediscovered their championship form, and their resurgence comes at a crucial point as the preliminaries reach the halfway mark. After scoring 12 of the first 13 points in the fourth set, Creamline seemed headed for a runaway finish. But the Highrisers mounted one last charge, cutting the lead to 20-16 before turning up the heat late.
From 19-24 down, Galeries Tower erased four set points, highlighted by back-to-back service aces from Julia Coronel to suddenly put pressure on the Cool Smashers. Creamline, however, had one final answer. Pangs Panaga delivered a thunderous quick from the middle to finally slam the door and end the comeback bid for good. Back in the opener, the Cool Smashers built a lead that ballooned to as many as 10 points, with their starting core clicking early. A 12-5 burst capped by a Kyle Negrito ace wrapped up the first set in commanding fashion. Then, the match flipped as Jean Asis, Erika Deloria and Gayle Pascual took control in the second frame, steering Galeries Tower from start to finish. Fittingly, it was backup setter Maji Mangulabnan who punctuated the set with an ace reminiscent of Negrito’s from the opening frame to level the match.
Creamline tried to reassert control in the third, racing to an 8-2 start. But the Highrisers clawed back, trimming the gap to 17-15 and threatening another shift in momentum. The Cool Smashers, however, leaned on their veteran core once more. An unanswered four-point run, sealed by a Pangs Panaga block, restored order and handed Creamline the set and the match back in their favor.
Tots Carlos powered Creamline with a 19-point, 13-dig double-double, backed by Bernadeth Pons’ 15 markers and Jema Galanza’s 12-point, 11-reception effort. Pangs Panaga added 11 points from the middle, including two blocks, while Jia de Guzman orchestrated the offense with 22 excellent sets to keep the Cool Smashers in rhythm. Galeries Tower showed flashes of fight, but three consistent scorers were not enough to topple the 10-time champions. Deloria tallied 11 points, 11 digs, and six receptions, while Asis contributed 12 markers on nine attacks and three blocks. Pascual chipped in seven, and veteran Aiza Maizo-Pontillas was limited to just five points in the loss.
Source: spin.ph
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Alex Eala in line for Coco Gauff rematch in Indian Wells draw
March 4 ------ OPENING her campaign in a tournament dubbed as the “fifth Slam,” Alex Eala finds herself in a loaded draw that could set up a rematch with Coco Gauff. The 20-year-old Filipina, now ranked a career-high No. 31 in the world, earned a first-round bye as one of the BNP Paribas Open's 32 seeded players, gaining automatic entry to the Round of 64 at Indian Wells.
Eala opens against the winner between China’s Shuai Zhang (No. 62) and Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska (No. 52) in the second quarter of the draw that could potentially see a clash against American world No. 4 Coco Gauff in the Round of 32. The two last faced off in Dubai, where Gauff delivered a dominant 6-0, 6-2 quarterfinal win against the Filipina. Also looming in Eala’s side of the draw are Jasmine Paolini, Linda Noskova, Ekaterina Alexandrova, Clara Tauson, and former Indian Wells champions Paula Badosa and Bianca Andreescu. Meanwhile, the first quarter of the draw is bannered by world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, a two-time finalist still chasing her first Indian Wells crown. She is joined by Amanda Anisimova, Victoria Mboko, Iva Jovic, and Emma Raducanu.
World No. 2 Iga Swiatek headlines the fourth quarter alongside defending champion Mirra Andreeva. The WTA 1000 BNP Paribas Open marks Eala’s seventh tournament of the season and her third at the 1000 level, following campaigns in Dubai, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi (WTA 500). She has also seen action in the Philippine Women’s Open (WTA125), the Australian Open, and the ASB Classic (WTA250) to open her 2026 slate. With the 52-week cycle of her breakthrough 390-point haul from last year’s run to the semifinals of the Miami Open fast approaching, a deep run in Indian Wells would be crucial to cushion the impact of the looming points drop.
Protecting her hard-earned ranking inside the Top 32 will be a key objective as the tour transitions deeper into the North American swing. The Miami Open begins on March 15, serving as the second leg of the prestigious “Sunshine Doubles” —the back-to-back hardcourt showpieces in Indian Wells and Miami that often shape the early-season hierarchy on the tour.
Source: spin.ph
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NBA: Murray scores 45 as Nuggets hold off Jazz; Celtics rout Bucks
LOS ANGELES, March 4 ------ Jamal Murray scored 45 points as the Denver Nuggets held off the struggling Utah Jazz to snatch a 128-125 victory.
Nuggets point guard Murray drained eight three-pointers and shot 13-of-19 from the field in a back-and-forth duel that saw the lead change hands no fewer than 22 times. Murray's virtuoso performance was backed by 22 points from Nikola Jokic, who also pulled down 12 rebounds, on a night when all of Denver's starters reached double figures.
The win lifted Denver to 38-24 in the Western Conference standings, while Utah fell to 18-43 and remain one place off the bottom. Elsewhere Monday, Giannis Antetokounmpo returned from a five-week injury absence but could not prevent the Milwaukee Bucks slumping to a hefty 108-81 defeat to the Boston Celtics.
Antetokounmpo, making his first appearance since suffering a right calf strain in late January, finished with 19 points and 11 rebounds in a losing effort against the outclassed Bucks. Boston meanwhile kept up their pursuit of the Detroit Pistons at the top of the Eastern Conference with a potent all-round offensive effort.
All five starters finished in double digits for the Celtics, while Payton Pritchard produced an eye-catching 25-point cameo off the bench that included five three-pointers. The Celtics drained 20-of-50 from outside the arc, with Derrick White and Sam Hauser bagging four three-pointers apiece. Boston improved to 41-20 with the victory as the Bucks fell to 26-34. The Celtics are second in the East, five games behind leaders Detroit (45-14).
The Bucks' third straight loss leaves them in 11th place in the East, just outside the play-in places. In other games on Monday, Trae Young managed the unusual feat of getting ejected for new club Washington before playing a game for the franchise. Young has been injured since his trade to the Wizards from Atlanta on January 7, but is due to make his debut later this week.
On Monday however he was ejected after walking onto the court during the third quarter of the Wizards' 123-118 defeat to the Houston Rockets to complain after teammate Jamir Watkins was shoved to the hardcourt by Houston's Tari Eason. "Don't expect me to get ejected too many more times D.C... but I'm definitely bringing that energy & competitiveness when I'm back for my brothers!" Young wrote on Twitter following the incident.
On the court, Washington was well beaten by Houston, who improved to 38-22 and remained in third place in the Western Conference. Alperen Sengun led the Houston scoring with 32 points while Kevin Durant finished with 30 points.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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FEATURED ARTICLE
6 ways to actually relax on vacation
Who doesn’t love a vacation? It’s what we spend most of our year looking forward to. While the prospect of a trip is exciting, the preparation involved – planning a perfect itinerary, working out how to navigate an unfamiliar city, and packing travel essentials – can be overwhelming. In the midst of trying to experience everything a destination has to offer, it's easy to overlook the most important thing: to relax.
So, how do you prioritize rest and self-care while still making the most of your travels? Here at Cathay, our team of travel aficionados is on hand to answer that question. From exploring cities on foot and soaking in onsens to simplifying your itinerary, here are six expert tips on how to actually relax on your holiday.
1. Keep it simple
In our daily lives, we’re likely to face a constant stream of questions or requests both at work and at home, and it can be easy to experience “decision fatigue.” Don’t feel guilty about hitting pause and simplifying your to-do list.
What our team says: “I try to reduce my decision-making load as much as possible. We plan excursions well in advance and try to pack light, so we have fewer personal items to keep track of. Then all we have to do is turn up and enjoy.
“If you’re travelling with children and want to fit in some actual relaxation, a good kids club and a good pool are crucial. We stay close to the resort and don’t try to get too ambitious. I always try to catch up on my reading when I’m on holiday, so I’ll be lounging by the pool with a cocktail or good novel in hand while the children are throwing themselves down a water slide for the 500th time.”
– Sarah Fung, Senior Account Manager
2. Explore the city on foot
The cities of the world are bursting with stunning landmarks. From Sydney’s breathtaking coasts to Milan’s mesmerizing Neoclassical architecture, there is no shortage of scenic spots to visit, and often the best way to appreciate them is on foot.
What our team says: “A walking tour is a great introduction to a city. You simultaneously get a feel for the history and culture of a destination, as well as an orientation for the layout. I love just strolling around a new destination to gain a feel for the place at my own pace. It’s much less stressful to walk around a city than to be in a vehicle and you’ll take more in, too.”
- Lauren James, Managing Editor
3. Wash your stress away in a hot spring
What could be more relaxing than soaking in the mineral-rich waters of a hot spring or onsen? These natural wonders provide a serene escape from the daily grind, soothing both the body and mind.
Where there are no onsen, you can try other popular wellness treatments. From sound baths in Bali to head spas in Tokyo, each destination has its own unique way of making you feel pampered.
What our team says: “I’m a huge fan of anything bath-related, so spending time in South Korea’s jjimjilbang complexes and New Zealand’s hot spring towns are some of my favorite travel experiences - though Japan’s onsen will always have my heart.
“There’s no better place than Kinosaki-onsen , where people make pilgrimages to explore seven “mystic” onsen. My favorites are Goshono-yu and Ichino-yu, which blend traditional architecture with natural zen surroundings. It’s self-care sightseeing at its best.”
- Megan Hills, Content Editor
4. Allow yourself to slow down
Travel can be exhilarating, whether you’re exploring a new city, embarking on an adventurous escape, or ticking off your bucket list must-sees. But there is profound beauty in slowing down and embracing stillness. Take a moment to soak up your surroundings.
What our team says: “I like to take things slowly when I’m on holiday. I make it a point to reserve a good amount of time for a place I’ve planned to visit. Whether it’s a cute cafe or gardens and green spaces, I enjoy making time to just sit down with a drink or have a picnic. It’s a lovely and relaxing way to be closer to nature while staying close to town - no strenuous hike needed.”
- Sabrina Wong, Content Editor
5. Be open to spontaneity
There’s more to a city than its biggest attractions and best-known landmarks. Relieve yourself of the pressure of checking off “must-do” activities and embrace the joy of unexpected encounters and serendipitous discoveries.
What our team says: “I have a bad habit of making detailed plans and then panicking when something inevitably occurs to disrupt them. So now when I’m putting together an itinerary, I look at the time needed for each activity and double it - even if it means crossing a few items out.
“The extra breathing room means I worry less about delays, but also allows for unexpected detours, more frequent breaks, and extra time for the activities I genuinely enjoy.”
- Charlotte Ames-Ettridge, Senior Sub-Editor
6. Put down your guide and follow your nose
A great way to explore a city’s history and culture is through its food. Although planning where to eat in an unfamiliar city can be daunting, and you might be tempted to simply pick the trendiest dining spot, there’s so much joy in finding hidden treasures.
What our team says: “Michelin-starred restaurants can guarantee a sophisticated gourmet experience, while the Bib Gourmand is a great guide to eateries frequented by locals. But if you do away with your itinerary and let yourself wander the streets, you may discover gems along the way.”
- Shelby Chan, Content Editor
Source: www.cathaypacific.com
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