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May 9, 2026
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HEADLINES
Trump gives EU until July 4 to reach trade deal or face steeper tariffs
WHO Warns of Potential for More Virus Cases as New Cruise Details Emerge
Philippine economy slows to 2.8% in Q1, weakest in 5 years
Darren Espanto opens up on family, independence, and growing up in showbiz
Johnny Manahan leads TV5's Star Worx in search for next generation of entertainment stars
Holmgren, SGA help Thunder frustrate Lakers to go up 2-0 in West semis
Sabalenka, champion Paolini begin Italian Open campaigns
FULL NEWSPAPER
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Amid Middle East conflict, ASEAN countries eye more coordinated response to future crises
May 9 ------ Southeast Asian countries are aiming to better coordinate their responses to future crises, taking in lessons from the ongoing Middle East conflict that has squeezed energy and other supplies, and roiled regional markets.
Foreign and economic ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) met to discuss the development of a “crisis communication protocol” at the ministerial level to ensure a “coherent, timely, and coordinated response” to crises. According to a statement released at the 48th ASEAN Summit, the ministers also exchanged views on the broader regional implications of the Middle East war. They identified “practical, concrete response measures on strengthening energy security, safeguarding food security, and coordinating humanitarian responses”.
“Some proposals raised covered diversifying energy sources, suppliers and routes; enhancing food monitoring, information-sharing, and preparedness measures; and strengthening intra-ASEAN trade, investment, and supply chains,” the statement said.
The summit, which this year’s ASEAN chair Philippines, is hosting in the central island province of Cebu, takes place amid the Middle East conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The conflict, which began on Feb 28 when the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran, has disrupted shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, the waterway through which Asia obtains a significant share of its oil and gas.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards' Navy said on Wednesday that safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz will be ensured with US threats coming to an end and new procedures in place, in its first reaction to Washington pausing operations to help stranded ships pass through the strait.
INCREASING COORDINATION
ASEAN has maintained that the conflict in the Middle East must be resolved diplomatically and peacefully, even as differences in energy exposure influence how members respond. Countries like the Philippines and Vietnam are more reliant on energy imports from the Middle East and are looking to alternative suppliers like Russia.
Other ASEAN members, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, have greater domestic capacity and are focusing on subsidies and price controls, analysts previously told CNA. Given these differences, analysts cautioned that expectations for major coordinated measures remain modest, with national-level responses likely to dominate the summit. But Thursday’s statement said ASEAN is committed to increasing coordination among relevant ASEAN sectoral bodies - including political-security, economic, and sociocultural - to “mount an effective and comprehensive response” to the conflict. “Notably, the meeting endorsed for adoption at the 48th ASEAN Summit an ASEAN Leaders’ Statement on the Response to the Middle Crisis, which will bring together ASEAN’s unified response,” it said.
A Philippine official confirmed on Thursday that ASEAN will issue a joint statement on how the regional bloc would respond to the Middle East crisis. The summit included ASEAN’s newest member, Timor-Leste, while Myanmar was represented by its Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs, U Hau Khan Sum. “The main purpose, really, here is for all the member states to be able to come up with measures that will help us respond not only to the current situation but also to other future crises,” said Dominic Xavier Imperial, deputy assistant secretary from the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Asked if the statement would include an appeal to warring parties to end the conflict, Imperial said there would definitely be a reference to that. In comparison, different concerns were at the fore at the previous joint foreign and economic ministers’ meeting.
Held in Malaysia last October amid rising protectionism and intensifying global power rivalries, it saw calls for ASEAN not to be a passive bystander but a “proactive force for stability, openness and peace”. External shocks such as escalating trade tariffs, supply chain vulnerabilities, and intense strategic competition between major powers compelled ASEAN to project greater coherence and agility, analysts said at the time. The Associated Press reported on Thursday that ASEAN also plans to launch a contingency plan that upholds international law, sovereignty, and freedom of navigation in response to the Middle East conflict. This is based on a draft declaration seen by AP, which is expected to be issued by ASEAN leaders on Friday.
The contingency plan calls for an agreement on coordinated emergency fuel sharing, plans for a regional power grid, diversifying the region’s sources of crude oil, promoting the use of electric vehicles, and studying the use of new technologies, including civilian nuclear energy, AP reported.
Source: channelnewsasia.com
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Trump gives EU until July 4 to reach trade deal or face steeper tariffs
WASHINGTON, May 9 ------ US President Donald Trump said he would give the European Union until July 4 to implement trade deal commitments before he raises tariffs on EU goods, including cars, to "much higher levels." Trump said in a Truth Social post that he issued the new deadline during a "great call" with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in which the two leaders also agreed that Iran could never have a nuclear weapon.
In a surprise move, Trump last Friday announced that he would raise tariffs on EU vehicles to 25% from the previously agreed 15% because the EU was not complying with the terms of a deal struck in Scotland last July.
The deal called for the EU to cut its tariffs on US industrial goods to zero and provide duty-free quotas on certain American farm and sea produce, but the implementing legislation has been slow to move through the European Parliament. "I’ve been waiting patiently for the EU to fulfill their side of the Historic Trade Deal we agreed in Turnberry, Scotland, the largest Trade Deal ever!" Trump said. "A promise was made that the EU would deliver their side of the Deal and, as per the Agreement, cut their Tariffs to ZERO! I agreed to give her until our Country’s 250th Birthday or, unfortunately, their Tariffs would immediately jump to much higher levels," he said, referring to the US July 4 Independence Day celebration.
Von der Leyen said in a post on X that she discussed the trade deal with Trump and agreed with him that Iran must never possess a nuclear weapon. "We also discussed the EU–US trade deal. We remain fully committed, on both sides, to its implementation. Good progress is being made towards tariff reduction by early July," von der Leyen said.
'SOME WAY TO GO'
The European Parliament's trade committee chair, Bernd Lange, said on Thursday that EU lawmakers and governments are making progress to finalize a deal to scrap duties on US goods, but "there is still some way to go" amid divisions over safeguards sought by some of the bloc's 27 countries. The EU negotiators will meet again on May 19 for the next round of talks. Some EU lawmakers want tougher safeguards in the implementing legislation, including suspending the deal if the US fails to comply, making tariff cuts conditional on US action, and ending EU tariff concessions entirely on March 31, 2028.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said on Wednesday that the EU's implementation was "already past due," and suggested that there could be other actions besides an auto tariff increase if the EU did not come into compliance. "The autos is just one element," Greer told Bloomberg Television. "There are other elements to the deal where the United States remains in full compliance, in contrast to where the Europeans have been for many months."
Source: manilaltimes.net
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MARITIME NEWS
Seafarers trapped in crisis as conditions in the Hormuz deteriorate
May 9 ------ WSJ explores how one man responds to daily distress calls from sailors trapped by the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, as more than 20,000 seafarers remain stranded at sea facing food shortages, unpaid wages, and growing fears for their safety.
Union representative Mohamed Arrachedi, the regional coordinator for the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), reveals in a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) report that he receives dozens of distress calls and messages each day from sailors across the Persian Gulf.
Some seafarers report months without pay, while others are running low on essential supplies. So far, Arrachedi’s team has handled more than 2,000 requests for assistance, as conditions in the region continue to deteriorate. “There is absolutely no precedent for what is happening now,” he said, noting the worsening situation. "These are workers, and it’s really, really affecting, because at the end of the day, it is a seafarer with name, with nationality, with a family behind him, and you cannot deal with it as a file, as a case, as a number," Arrachedi said.
He further explains, these seafarers are effectively trapped in the area; they did not choose to remain there. “On a daily basis, I receive as many as 60 to 70 WhatsApp messages. At the beginning of the war, most of the cases were requests for repatriation, but after eight weeks, more and more began to involve shortages of food, provisions, water, and fuel.”
Many of the messages are also accompanied by videos and photos showing nearby bombings, with crew members expressing fear for their safety.
Since the Strait of Hormuz has become one of the world’s most dangerous maritime zones, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG) have designated it, along with the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, as a Warlike Operations Area following a review by the IBF Warlike Operations Area Committee on 5 March. The ITF has called for the immediate release of detained vessels and seafarers, an end to attacks on commercial shipping, and full adherence to international law to protect maritime workers.
Daily life for those at sea has become marked by exhaustion, uncertainty, and psychological strain. In addition to fears of attack, many seafarers remain uncertain about when they will be able to return home. Mental health concerns have grown significantly, with reports indicating that prolonged exposure to high-risk conditions, limited mobility, and constant insecurity are taking a serious toll.
In addition, the latest Seafarers Happiness Index from The Mission to Seafarers reflects this decline, with the overall score falling to 7.18 in Q1 2026 from 7.26 in the previous quarter, reversing earlier signs of stabilization following the outbreak of conflict in the Persian Gulf.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO), led by Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, has stated it is working with member states and partners on an evacuation plan for seafarers that can be implemented once conditions allow. The plan includes identifying affected vessels and prioritizing them based on humanitarian needs, as well as using the internationally recognized Traffic Separation Scheme as a potential evacuation corridor once safety guarantees are in place.
However, ongoing restrictions have left ships effectively stranded. In some cases, crews who were preparing to return home after completing months at sea have been unable to leave due to orders preventing entry to or exit from the region.
Witnesses have described a highly tense and unpredictable environment, including sightings of missile interceptions at night and fears of debris falling onto vessels, further heightening anxiety among those onboard.
Source: safety4sea.com
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WHO Warns of Potential for More Virus Cases as New Cruise Details Emerge
May 9 ------ While saying the public health risks are low, the World Health Organization is describing the hantavirus outbreak associated with the expedition cruise ship Hondius as a “serious incident.” It warned that it is possible more cases will be reported as the first suspected case from a person not on the ship was reported, and globally, health officials are working to trace contacts.
The situation aboard the exploration cruise ship Hondius is reported to be stable, with the operator, Oceanwide Expeditions, saying none of the remaining passengers and crew are showing symptoms of the virus. The WHO and the Dutch health authority placed three doctors aboard the ship before it departed Cape Verde on Wednesday evening. Among the details that were revealed is that the cruise ship’s doctor was one of the two crewmembers showing respiratory symptoms who were evacuated from the ship yesterday.
Further concerns emerged as it was reported that a passenger who had left the ship earlier in the cruise and flown to Switzerland has now been placed in isolation. The cruise line reported today that a total of 30 passengers had disembarked from the Hondius on April 24 in Saint Helena, and it is suspected that most of them took an airplane to South Africa. Health officials spanning from South Africa to Singapore and France are tracking the disembarked passengers and their potential contacts. On Saint Helena, a small number of people who came in close contact with the passengers were told to isolate for 45 days.
A French citizen who had left the ship is reported to be showing “benign symptoms,” and today reports are that a KLM Royal Dutch Airlines flight attendant has been hospitalized with a suspected case.
The WHO is working to trace the movements of the passengers and is working with officials in Argentina to determine the likely origins of the outbreak. According to the WHO, the first man and woman who became ill had been on a bird-watching trip in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. The suspicion is that they contracted the Andes strain of the virus and brought it aboard the cruise ship. It is the only strain of hantavirus known to be capable of human transmission.
The man died on April 11, and his wife was among the 30 people who disembarked in Saint Helena and flew to South Africa. The woman boarded a KLM flight in Johannesburg, but the crew determined she was too ill to fly and removed her from the flight. She died in South Africa.
Oceanwide Expeditions emphasizes that it was not until May 4 that there was a confirmed case of hantavirus. That was a passenger who was evacuated and remains in a hospital in South Africa. WHO reports that five cases are now confirmed, with a total of eight suspected cases, including the three deceased passengers.
The regional president of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, said late on Thursday that he had persuaded the Spanish government not to let the ship dock in Tenerife. Oceanwide has reported that the ship is heading toward the port of Grandilla in the south of Tenerife and was expected to arrive by early Sunday morning, May 10.
The WHO is helping to organize the protocols and also arranging for 2,500 diagnostic kits to be distributed from Argentina. Local officials in the Canary Islands are calling for the ship to remain at anchor and the passengers to remain isolated. It has been suggested that the passengers would board medically equipped airplanes for repatriation to their home countries. WHO asserts that this is not the next pandemic on the scale of COVID-19 because of the low transmission rate, but says it demonstrates the vital need for global health protocols.
Source: maritime-executive.com
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SSI: The priority is to move from crew welfare analysis to action
May 9 ------ The Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI) has issued a publication marking the first integrated, industry-wide mapping of crew welfare, wellbeing and safety data in shipping.
As explained in SSI’s “From Data to Decisions: Making Seafarer Welfare Visible, Comparable and Actionable” publication, the integrated mapping, funded by the Lloyd’s Register Foundation, is intended to support and strengthen the work of regulations and existing industry initiatives and stakeholders by providing a shared, evidence based reference point on welfare, wellbeing and safety data.
The findings derive from a full audit of welfare, wellbeing, and safety data and research that is currently in use. It was combined with input from industry stakeholders, including contributions from owners, operators, insurers, charterers, finance, legal, recruitment, NGOs and seafarers. The outcomes were peer-reviewed by industry participants before publication.
"For the first time, the maritime industry has a single, integrated view of essential welfare, wellbeing and safety data, and what it tells us is sobering. The information we need to manage human risk well exists, but it is fragmented, inconsistent and rarely connected to the decisions that matter. This has real-world implications for seafarers as well as operational and commercial best practices," said Ellie Besley-Gould, Chief Executive Officer, Sustainable Shipping Initiative. In an exclusive interview to SAFETY4SEA in March, Ellie Besley-Gould had explained that SSI is working to bridge the gap between boardrooms and the lived experience of seafarers by helping to create industry-wide systems that protect seafarers’ welfare and well-being. An important element of this is bringing together like-minded cross-industry stakeholders to develop incentive structures that can make welfare standards visible, actionable and profitable.
Fragmentation and lack of consistency
The mapping has revealed that although data exists and is used, application is fragmented, siloed, and could be rapidly improved to support decision-making and seafarer welfare.
In addition, although legal definitions of welfare and safety are well established, the mapping shows they are not being applied consistently and that there are no shared industry-wide indicators against which to assess progress. There is no shortage of activity on crew welfare, but it has developed unevenly, with different definitions, methods and levels of maturity across the industry. In practice, this limits comparability, weakens early insight and keeps the system anchored in lagging indicators. "Data only matters when it leads to better decisions. By translating evidence into action – and by working together across industry – we can respond more effectively to seafarers’ needs and ensure welfare initiatives are targeted and meaningful for the people behind the numbers," highlighted SSI Seafarer Welfare Lead Kristina Kunigenas.
As a result, deteriorating conditions for seafarers are often only visible once harm has already occurred, rather than being identified and addressed early. Early signals exist, particularly around fatigue, stress and disengagement, but they are not consistently captured, trusted or used.
According to Yves Vandenborn, Head of Loss Prevention Asia Pacific, North Standard, to drive real progress for seafarers, we must speak a common language. Currently, the industry’s understanding of crew welfare and safety is hindered by fragmented data and inconsistent metrics. By establishing uniform definitions and clear KPIs, we can move from isolated insights to a truly integrated landscape.
Furthermore, Vandenborn stressed that the transparent sharing of suitably anonymized data is essential; it allows us to identify collective risks and hidden root causes, like stress and fatigue, without compromising individual confidentiality. "Only through this shared clarity can we track our progress and ensure a safer, more sustainable future for the entire maritime workforce," he concluded.
Regulations in place
A range of established legal frameworks already set minimum standards for crew welfare, including the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC, 2006), which covers conditions of employment, accommodation, food, medical care and access to support, as well as IMO instruments such as STCW and SOLAS that address fatigue, hours of work and rest, and safe operation.
In parallel, flag state requirements, port state control regimes and classification standards reinforce compliance through inspection and assurance.
These frameworks provide a clear baseline for welfare and safety. However, they are primarily designed for compliance and enforcement, and are not consistently translated into comparable indicators or used to provide a forward-looking view of crew welfare conditions across organizations.
"A shared knowledge of where to find information about seafarers’ safety and wellbeing is essential to significantly improve it. It is the missing foundation needed to join up existing work, of knowing what works when it comes to improving seafarer safety and wellbeing, of tracking collective progress," commented SSI Trustee, Olivia Swift, with Francesca Fairbairn, IHRB member rep, adding that there’s so much data out there, but aligning it all in a way that will allow the industry to effectively track and improve seafarers’ rights is the next essential step. "Improving safety and crew welfare starts with a clear, shared understanding of the data the industry can rely on. This mapping represents a meaningful step towards greater transparency, consistency and alignment, helping support more informed dialogue, better decision-making and targeted action," explained Menand Karsan, General Manager, Marine at Rio Tinto said.
Collaborating for impact
Overall, SSI finds that the gaps set out above are widely recognized across the industry. The priority now is to move from analysis to application. Much of what is needed already exists, but it is not yet applied in a consistent or connected way. "Closing these gaps is a collective task. The SSI is calling on the industry to join our members in collaborating on closing gaps, co-creating the frameworks the sector currently lacks, and establishing a standardized approach to managing people-related risks at sea before the commercial and human costs of inaction escalate further," Ellie Besley-Gould concluded.
SSI aims to focus on supporting the application of crew welfare by continuing to work across industry to : develop common baselines, reporting confidence and leading indicators; convene cross industry dialogue to test and refine priority actions and; collaborate with partners to embed welfare, wellbeing and safety considerations more consistently into governance, assurance and decision making processes.
Source: safety4sea.com
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PHILIPPINE NEWS
Gasoline poised for fresh price hike; diesel, kerosene expected to go down next week
MANILA, May 9 ------ Motorists may expect a rollback in diesel and kerosene prices, while gasoline may go up next week, said the Department of Energy.
Based on the four-day trade monitoring in the Mean of Platts Singapore, diesel and kerosene may go down by P9 and P12 per liter, respectively, while gasoline is expected to go up by P1.60 to P1.70 per liter. DOE Oil Industry Management Bureau Director Rino Abad said oil is now going back to its normal market-based prices, before it was affected by the Middle East tensions that began February this year.
He said the oil prices now fluctuate at around $70 to $95 per barrel, nearing the normal market-based prices of $55 to $65 per barrel. “Medyo elevated pa, pero hindi na malayo,” Abad told DZMM Teleradyo.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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Philippine economy slows to 2.8% in Q1, weakest in 5 years
MANILA, Philippines, May 9 ------ The Philippine economy grew by only 2.8% in the first quarter of 2026, putting the country well below the pace needed to meet full-year forecasts by multilateral and private-sector analysts.
The first-quarter gross domestic product growth was slower than the 3% recorded in the fourth quarter of 2025 and 4% in the same period last year, based on Philippine Statistics Authority data released. The quarterly GDP is the lowest recorded since the first quarter of 2021, a year after the global COVID-19 pandemic broke out and shut down markets.
The figure also fell short of the growth implied by earlier forecasts. The Asian Development Bank projected Philippine GDP growth of 4.4% for 2026, while private firms' analysis expected the economy to expand by about 5.2% this year. BMI, a Fitch Solutions unit, said in February that it expected Philippine growth to accelerate to 5.2% in 2026. But this was before the global oil shock following the United States' attacks and subsequent actions on Iran.
The government's data agency said the main contributors to first-quarter growth were wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, which grew 4.6%; financial and insurance activities, 3.4%; and public administration and defense and compulsory social security, 8.6%. Among major sectors, services grew 4.5% year-on-year.
Agriculture, forestry and fishing declined by 0.2%, while industry contracted by 0.1%. On the demand side, household final consumption expenditure grew 3%, while government final consumption expenditure rose 4.8%. Exports of goods and services increased 7.8%, while imports of goods and services grew 6.1%. Gross capital formation, however, fell 3.3%, pointing to weaker investment activity during the quarter.
Source: philstar.com
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Philippines continues to 'build on' trilateral ties with Japan, US - Marcos
May 9 ------ President Marcos told Japanese officials that the Philippines will continue to build on the trilateral ties it established with Japan and the United States.
In his meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Koizumi Shinjiro at the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday, May 5, Marcos reaffirmed Manila's commitment to the trilateral agreement. Despite Washington's ongoing global concerns, Marcos said Manila and Tokyo can continue to strengthen their relationship. "Now, the United States has other concerns right now, but I think between Japan and the Philippines, we continue to strengthen that relationship and to add on to what we have initially discussed in terms of the arrangement," Marcos said during the meeting.
Marcos highlighted that the agreement deals not only with defense and security but also with other aspects. Marcos, US President Joe Biden, and former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida participated in a trilateral summit in Washington, DC, on April 11, 2024.
During the summit, they reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, guided by the values of democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. The President also thanked the Japanese government for its participation in this year's Balikatan exercises.
According to Malacañang, the Defense Minister is in the country to witness the participation of the Japan Self-Defense Forces in Exercise Balikatan 41-2026 of the Philippines and the United States. In a briefing on Tuesday, Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the visit "symbolizes the strong relations between the two countries."
Source: mb.com.ph
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PSA: Jobless Filipinos at 2.58 million in March
MANILA, Philippines, May 9 ------ The unemployment rate in March 2026 eased to 5%, down from 5.1% in February 2026, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said.
In its report, the PSA said that unemployed persons stood at 2.58 million in March 2026, a decrease from the 2.66 million recorded in February 2026. However, this is a notable increase from the 1.93 million unemployed individuals logged in March 2025. For March 2026, the Labor Force Participation Rate was recorded at 63.3%, translating to 51.65 million Filipinos in the workforce. Employment rate. Correspondingly, the total number of employed persons reached 49.07 million in March 2026.
This figure is lower than the 49.43 million employed in February but higher than the 48.02 million recorded in March 2025. The overall employment rate for March was 95%. Underemployed. The underemployment rate—referring to employed persons who desire additional hours of work or an additional job—was recorded at 12.3% in March 2026. This represents 6.03 million Filipinos. Of this group, 59.5% are classified as "visibly underemployed," working less than 40 hours per week, while 40.5% are "invisibly underemployed," working 40 hours or more but still seeking more work or better opportunities.
Source: philstar.com
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Establishment of ASEAN Maritime Center in PH proposed in ASEAN Summit
CEBU, May 9 ------ The establishment of an ASEAN Maritime Center in the Philippines is one of the key discussion points in this year's edition of the summit.
In the Political Security Community meeting, Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro underscored the importance of maritime cooperation in the region. "Equally vital is the need to advance maritime security and cooperation. As a region linked by our seas, the maritime domain remains central to our pursuit of stability and prosperity," Lazaro said. "It is in this context that the Philippines underscores the importance of the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Maritime Cooperation, recognizing the multi-dimensional nature of maritime issues and underscoring the importance of enhancing coordination among AMS," the Foreign Affairs Secretary added.
The proposal comes as the Philippines continued its call for a legally binding South China Sea Code of Conduct, which seeks to prevent conflict in the waters. In an earlier briefing, DFA Spokesperson Dominic Xavier Imperial said the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Maritime Cooperation was among three key outcome documents to be considered by the regional leaders. "[This] underscores the region’s commitment to advancing maritime cooperation through concrete initiatives such as the inclusion of the ASEAN Coast Guard Forum as an ASEAN sectoral body and the proposed establishment of the ASEAN Maritime Center in the Philippines," Imperial said.
Lazaro also noted that threats on cybersecurity remained a pressing concern for the region. "In the realm of cybersecurity, we remained concerned of emerging threats, including the use of artificial intelligence for criminal purposes, necessitating a robust and coordinated approach in this area, such as through capacity-building and information-sharing initiatives," Lazaro said. "It is also within the political-security pillar that we strengthen regional efforts to effectively address transnational crime," she added.
The Political Security Community of ASEAN met on Thursday ahead of the Leaders' Summit. "Our vision is crystal clear: a peaceful, stable and secure region based on the fundamental principles as enshrined in the ASEAN Charter, the UN Charter and principles of international law," Lazaro said.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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PH, Vietnam rice deal ensures stable supply until April 2027
MANILA, May 9 ------ The agreement to establish a "long-term rice trade mechanism" between the Philippines and Vietnam will ensure a stable supply until 2027 amid tensions in the Middle East, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said.
The DA, in a released statement, noted the move will help support supply from local production despite the market volatility due to geopolitical risks in the Middle East. “Securing import volumes until next April is crucial amid geopolitical uncertainties and climate risks,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said, as he lauded the agreement between President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng.
The agreement was discussed during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Cebu. “This deal builds on our push for ASEAN countries to trade more closely — it’s another step toward regional integration,” Tiu Laurel added.
With the agreement in place, the DA chief said the Philippines can reduce risks due to market volatility and ensure stable retail prices given a predictable supply. Under the agreement, the Philippines will have uninterrupted deliveries of 1.5 million metric tons (MT) of Dai Thom 8 (DT8) rice until April 2027. DT8, also known as the high-quality Vietnamese Fragrant rice, has gained its popularity in the Philippine market for its long-grain, soft texture, and light aroma.
The deal allows the Philippines to purchase the DT8 rice at USD450 per MT until next year. Tiu Laurel added that the focus on rice trade may pave the way for expanded agricultural cooperation, with the deal to serve as a “blueprint.” He also assured that the Philippines is sustaining alternative supply sources to ensure resilience, despite unpredictable regional markets.
Source: pna.gov.ph
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OCD braces for lahar threat from Mayon as storm nears PAR
May 9 ------ The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) stepped up clearing operations around Mayon Volcano in Bicol (Region 5) as it prepares for possible lahar flows from a looming weather disturbance that threatens areas already affected by volcanic unrest, an official disclosed.
OCD spokesperson Junie Castillo said about 200 operatives were deployed for continuous clearing operations in affected communities. “Clearing operations continue uninterrupted. Around 200 clearing operatives were conducting operations while the OCD was focused on providing fuel and food for members of the clearing teams,” he said. The OCD raised concern over the possibility of lahar flows if there are heavy rains from the expected entry of Tropical Storm “Caloy” into the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). “The lava and ashfall that had been deposited earlier are being closely monitored because stronger rains could trigger dangerous lahar flows,” Castillo said. “That is why clearing operations have continued so authorities can prepare in case of heavy rains from the incoming storm Caloy once it enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility,” he added.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Tropical Storm Hagupit could enter PAR by Saturday evening or early Sunday. Once inside PAR, the storm would be given the local name “Caloy” and would become the country’s third tropical cyclone for this year. Hagupit was located 1,460 km east of Northeastern Mindanao (outside PAR) as of 10 a.m. Friday, packing maximum sustained winds of 85 km/h near the center, gustiness of up to 105 km/h, and central pressure of 998 hPa. It was moving westward at a speed of 20 km/h.
Another LPA brought rains to parts of Visayas and Mindanao but the state weather bureau said it had already dissipated on Thursday night. Castillo said response agencies had already conducted pre-disaster risk assessment meetings ahead of the expected weather disturbance. He urged residents in vulnerable communities to stay alert and monitor government advisories. “We urge the public to remain vigilant and listen to the advisories of local authorities. Storm Caloy is expected by Saturday or Sunday. Its track may still change but we will continue monitoring the situation and prepare for everyone’s safety,” he said.
Meanwhile, more than 70,000 families or 286,000 individuals have already been affected by the continued volcanic activity of Mayon across Bicol Region. Of this, more than 1,100 families or around 4,100 individuals remained inside 12 evacuation centers. Dozens of other displaced residents stayed with relatives or in makeshift shelters outside government-run facilities.
Agricultural losses also reached P7 with 181 farmers suffering directly from Mayon’s unrest and 82 hectares of high-value crops buried in ash.
The OCD said that law enforcers have also tightened restrictions inside the six-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ) around the volcano as tourists and residents continued attempting to enter restricted areas. “The law and order cluster, led by the Philippine National Police and Armed Forces of the Philippines, is strictly monitoring the area to closely watch over our fellow citizens, as well as tourists and other individuals entering the six-km permanent danger zone, in order to ensure the well-being of our countrymen,” Castillo said.
Source: mb.com.ph
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8 in 10 Filipino adults face disability as ‘care crisis’ looms – study
MANILA, May 9 ------ The Philippines is grappling with the prevalence of disability among its adult population, a reality that is pushing the country toward a massive "care crisis" as the system struggles to keep pace with rising health needs.
The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) on Thursday said 8 in 10 Filipino adults experience some level of disability. Its study titled “The Future Demand for Care in the Philippines” reveals the burden is even more pronounced among the elderly, with nearly 90 percent of older persons having at least a moderate disability.
Researchers noted that this high disability rate, coupled with the fact that non-communicable diseases now account for 64 percent of all deaths, has created an urgent and intensive demand for long-term care that the current underdeveloped industry cannot meet. The study highlights that the financial and social costs for families caring for members with disabilities are immense.
Families raising a child with a disability, for instance, face costs that can be up to 80 percent higher than average. Despite these needs, the care landscape remains fragmented. Families are often forced to absorb the burden themselves due to a lack of formal facilities and qualified professionals. “At present, the care landscape is characterized by limited access to care services, an underdeveloped care industry, a lack of qualified care workers and professionals, and uneven distribution of existing facilities,” the study said.
It points out that the responsibility for managing these disabilities falls disproportionately on women, who spend an average of 28 hours a week on unpaid care work. This is more than triple the 8.6 hours spent by men. As the country heads toward becoming an aging society by 2030, the pool of available family caregivers is shrinking due to smaller family sizes and the migration of trained care workers seeking better pay abroad. This leave-behind effect creates significant gaps in home-based care for adults with disabilities.
PIDS experts stressed that the current reliance on home-based, family-oriented care is no longer sustainable given the high disability statistics. “Care provision is primarily home-based and family oriented,” the study stated, noting that this setup “reinforces gender norms” and leaves many unmet needs for those with moderate to severe disabilities.
To address the crisis, the study calls for immediate government investment in a more robust care economy, including specialized infrastructure for the disabled and elderly, and policies that encourage shared responsibility for care work. It added that a more inclusive and gender-equitable care economy will require sustained investments in quality care services, robust data systems, and initiatives that actively reshape social norms.
Source: pna.gov.ph
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ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
Darren Espanto opens up on family, independence, and growing up in showbiz
May 9 ------ Darren Espanto looked back on his journey from being a shy kid in Canada to becoming one of the country’s most recognizable performers in the latest episode of “Oh My Gan!”
The singer recalled that joining “The Voice Kids” was an unexpected turn in his life, sharing that his family first discovered the auditions through his grandmother in the Philippines. “It was really unexpected, kasi parang nanonood pa lang kami ng adult edition doon sa TFC sa Canada,” he said.
According to Espanto, his relatives in Manila personally lined up at Resorts World Manila just to ask how he could audition from Canada. After sending a virtual audition, he eventually earned a spot in the blind auditions.
Turning 25 this May, Espanto said he has come to appreciate the strict upbringing of his parents, who are both registered nurses in Canada. “Ngayon mo talaga ma-realize na sa mid-20s ka na na sobrang buti na lang gano’n yung magulang ko growing up,” he said. “I really appreciate the way they taught me how to live on my own independently.”
He also shared that his younger sister Lynelle is now studying in the Philippines, giving him a more active role as an older brother. “Ang dami kong inaasikaso ngayon sa mga school project niya,” Espanto said, adding that he helps her with school-related needs whenever his schedule allows. The singer said his parents trusted him with his sister because they saw his independence and maturity. “Nakita nila sa akin 'yung independence. Siguro 'yung kaya ko rin namang mabuhay mag-isa,” he shared.
Espanto also admitted that one of his priorities this year is saving up for his family, especially for a bigger home in the Philippines. “Gusto ko 'yung pag uuwi sila dito sa Philippines, we also have a family home here,” he said. “Gusto ko 'yun, 'yung parang mag-ipon para sa family ko.” Despite his success, Espanto said he remains guided by the lessons his parents taught him, especially humility, discipline, and giving back. “Feeling ko bine-bless ako to be able to bless others as well,” he said.
Settling down
In the interview, Espanto was asked about the current state of his heart. “I would never close doors to love. Pero ngayon, parang di ko naman siya priority,” he said, confirming that he is currently single. “It’s not like I’m looking to be in a relationship right away,” he added. He said the pandemic made him realize the importance of genuine personal connections, including friendships that may change over time. “There are friends na also seasonal and I totally understand that,” he said.
Still, Espanto admitted that he wants to settle down and have his own family someday. “I wanna have kids. I wanna have a wife and stuff like that. I just don’t know when,” he said. The singer shared that when he was younger, he thought he would settle down by his mid-20s. But now, he said, his perspective has changed. “I feel like my generation is so career-driven also,” he said.
“We’re also scared to lose what we have now.” When asked about the legacy he wants to leave behind, Espanto said he hopes his artistry and character will be remembered. “I’d like my work to speak for itself later on,” he said. “Kahit wala na ako sa mundo, gusto kong maalala pa din ng mga tao sa mga mabuti kong nagawa.” He added that aside from his music and performances, he also wants to be remembered as a good person. “Not just for my performances and my music, but also as a person,” he said. Espanto also said that if he becomes a father in the future, his children will also be part of the legacy he leaves behind.
Source:
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'Chambermaid's Daughter' director grateful for series’ success
MANILA, May 9 ------ Director Theodore Boborol expressed gratitude over the warm reception to "The Chambermaid’s Daughter," the ABS-CBN Studios micro drama headlined by Alexa Ilacad and BGYO's Gelo Rivera. The vertical drama, which debuted last week on iWant, has taken the number one spot among shows on the streaming service in the Philippines.
In a social media post, Boborol said that the overwhelming support has inspired him and their whole team. "It’s been a week since you’ve overwhelmingly and positively received our iWant micro-drama 'The Chambermaid’s Daughter,' and I’m still filled with so much gratitude and joy that we made you feel love and laughter on your vertical screens. Thank you so much! Your immense support inspires me, and I’m sure the whole team, too," Boborol said.
In his post, Boborol also paid tribute to the show's lead stars. The series marks Ilacad and Rivera's first project together as a love team. "I also just want to commend my two leads for giving their all to this series, even if we only shot for a few days. Alexa genuinely surprised me. She was so committed, so generous with her talent, and naturally funny, with strong improv skills to boot. I totally forgot she trained to be a comedienne under 'Goin’ Bulilit.' This is obviously her year, and I just can’t wait to see how her career continues to flourish. I’ve already seen the rushes of her next series, Miss Behave, and I tell you, she is V-E-R-S-A-T-I-L-I-T-Y," Boborol said.
Boborol then praised Rivera for being hardworking. "I have nothing but positive things to say about Gelo, our P-Pop idol. Technically, he prepared way earlier than the rest of us since he had to undergo Korean language lessons first. His idol training truly came into play on set. He was very hardworking, very open to constructive, creative input, and always strived to give his best during takes. It also helps that he’s sincerely a good kid. And the face card, right?! Sabi ko nga, hone lang niya craft niya, and work on that abs, dami niyang mai-elbow na leading man. Hehe," Boborol said. "Thank you, GeLex, for the trust! Looking forward to working with you again," he added.
Source: news.abs-cbn.com
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Johnny Manahan leads TV5's Star Worx in search for next generation of entertainment stars
May 9 ------ Legendary talent maker Johnny Manahan, known in the industry as Mr. M, is leading TV5’s push to discover the next generation of Philippine entertainment stars through its newly launched talent arm, Star Worx.
At 79, the former head of ABS-CBN’s Star Magic reaffirmed his reputation for spotting talent, having helped launch some of the country’s biggest celebrities, including Bea Alonzo, John Lloyd Cruz, Piolo Pascual, Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla, Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Angelica Panganiban, Claudine Barretto, and Kristine Hermosa, among many others. He also played a role in shaping the careers of Jolina Magdangal, Marvin Agustin, and Jodi Sta. Maria, Rica Peralejo, Carlo Aquino, Paolo Contis, and the late Rico Yan.
After a stint with GMA Network’s Sparkle, Mr. M is now focused on building TV5’s own roster of homegrown talent through Star Worx, formerly known as MediaQuest Artist Agency, marking the network’s effort to strengthen its entertainment lineup.
At the Star Worx launch at MVP Studios on May 5, he said the most important trait in a potential star remains the “X-factor.” “X-factor, hindi mawawala ‘yan. I don’t know what it is, pero nandoon ‘yun. Kapag nakita niyo, mafefeel niyo agad,” he said. He added that youth is also important, as the goal is to develop talents over time. “We want them to grow with us over a span of five or 10 years,” he explained.
The first batch, called “Star Worx 16,” underwent months of training starting in January 2026, covering acting, singing, dancing, hosting, choreography, and Filipino language fluency. “We weren’t just on the lookout for performers. We are cultivating icons,” Mr. M said.
The female talents introduced include Marthena Jickain, Carmela Lorzano, Celyn David, Kaitlyn King, Keisha Serna, Nathalie Apollo, Rahil Gatali, Selina Griffin, and Steph Razon, while the male roster features Adam Buck, Amo Wilding, Chan Martin, Nico Matugas, Patrick Ballesteros, Spencer Capistrano, and Wayne Leonard.
Many of the new talents are students, while others already have experience in acting, singing, dancing, hosting, modeling, sports, and content creation. Mr. M also addressed his decision to leave GMA Network after serving as a consultant for Sparkle, saying his contract had ended and the collaboration had run its course.
Despite the rise of social media stars, he emphasized that television remains a powerful platform for building long-lasting careers. “I still believe in TV as a medium of entertainment and of creating stars,” he said, noting that while social media creates instant fame, television allows for deeper storytelling and longevity. With Star Worx now officially launched, TV5 aims to develop the next generation of Filipino entertainment icons under Mr. M’s guidance.
Source: mb.com.ph
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SPORTS NEWS
Holmgren, SGA help Thunder frustrate Lakers to go up 2-0 in West semis
OKLAHOMA CITY, May 9 ------ Chet Holmgren and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander each scored 22 points and the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Los Angeles Lakers, 125-107 to take a 2-0 lead in the Western Conference semifinal series.
Ajay Mitchell had 20 points and Jaren McCain added 18 for the defending champion Thunder, who improved to 6-0 in the playoffs. The Lakers will host Game 3 on Saturday. The Lakers again were without scoring champion Luka Doncic, who is out indefinitely with a strained left hamstring. They also were missing forward Jarred Vanderbilt, the reserve forward who dislocated the pinkie finger on his right hand during the second quarter of Game 1. The Lakers also had three players finish with five fouls, limiting their aggressiveness late in the game.
Lakers guard Austin Reaves, who struggled with his shot in Game 1, scored 31 points on 10-for-16 shooting in Game 2. LeBron James, coming off a 27-point effort in Game 1, followed that up with 23. With the Lakers up 63-61 early in the third quarter, Gilgeous-Alexander got tied up with Reaves and was called for his fourth foul. Upon review, it was upgraded to a flagrant 1 for Gilgeous-Alexander's follow through. Oklahoma City's Alex Caruso was called for a technical foul as the situation was being sorted out.
Gilgeous-Alexander left the game with the Lakers up 65-61, but the Thunder rallied and took control without him. On a fast break, Holmgren found a trailing Jaylin Williams, who hit a 3-pointer and was fouled. His free throw put the Thunder up 85-74. The Thunder outscored the Lakers 32-15 while Gilgeous-Alexander was out in the third quarter to take a 93-80 lead into the fourth. The Lakers cut Oklahoma City's lead to five in the fourth quarter before the Thunder pulled away again.
Meanwhile, Cade Cunningham had 25 points and 10 assists, Tobias Harris scored 21 points and the Detroit Pistons beat the Cleveland Cavaliers, 107-97, to take a 2-0 lead in their second-round series. Game 3 is Saturday in Cleveland, where the Cavs were 4-0 in the first round against Toronto. The top-seeded Pistons have won five straight games since Orlando put them on the brink of elimination in the first round. “We're going to keep swinging,” reserve guard Daniss Jenkins said. “We're still trying to prove something to ourselves.”
Donovan Mitchell scored 31 points and Jarrett Allen had 22 points and seven rebounds, bouncing back from a poor performance in Game 1 for the fourth-seeded Cavs. James Harden, though, missed 10 of 13 shots and was limited to 10 points. Harden had four turnovers, including one with 33 seconds left when the Cavs trailed by just six.
Source: mb.com.ph
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Sabalenka, champion Paolini begin Italian Open campaigns
ROME, Italy, May 9 ------ Aryna Sabalenka breezed into the third round of the Italian Open with a straight-sets win over Barbora Krejcikova, 6-2, 6-3.
The World No. 1 and favorite for the women's title in the Italian capital, Sabalenka took one hour and 25 minutes to see off Czech Krejcikova in the final match of the day on centre court. Sabalenka has never won the Italian Open. Her run to the final two years ago, when she was lost to Iga Swiatek, her best result. But with the French Open around the corner the Belorussian made no mistake against Krejcikova, a former Wimbledon and French Open champion.
Sabalenka lost the first game on her serve but from there comfortably dealt with Krejcikova to set up a match with Sorana Cirstea in the next round. "I'm super happy to be through. She's a great player. We had a lot of tough matches in the past," Sabalenka said on court. "I'm of course happy with the level I played and to get this tough win."
The top seed is on the same side of the draw as Coco Gauff, who beat Sabalenka in last year's French Open final and made short work of Tereza Valentova in her opening match of the tournament. American star Gauff beat Valentova, 6-3, 6-4, in one hour and 34 minutes in front of a sparsely-populated center court, and will play Argentine Solana Sierra in the next round. Earlier, Jasmine Paolini launched her title defense by battling back from a set down to beat France's Leolia Jeanjean, 6-7 (4/7), 6-2, 6-4.
Home hope Paolini is bidding to become the first Italian woman to retain the title in Rome, but started slowly at the Foro Italico. The World No. 8 turned on the afterburners after going behind following an error-strewn first set, comfortably turning around the match to secure a spot in the third round, where she will meet Elise Mertens. "This match was a bit of up and downs, for sure. But I remember last year, I mean, also a lot of up and downs during the tournament," said Paolini.
Paolini's compatriot Matteo Berrettini fell at the first hurdle, 6-2, 6-3, to Alexei Popyrin, a defeat which will see the former Wimbledon finalist drop out of the top 100 in the men's rankings. The Rome native has had a hideous time with abdominal injuries in recent years, and since the start of the season — when he had to pull out of the Australian Open — he has won just nine matches and lost 10. "It was a pretty bad day, I had no energy and I wasn't able to use the energy of the crowd," said Berrettini. "This year started in a particular way, and the only way I can move forward is to accept that there will be days like this." Another Italian in Lorenzo Sonego was dumped out at the first time of asking, the 30-year-old seen off in straight sets 6-3, 6-3 by Peru's Ignacio Buse on centre court.
Source: philstar.com
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Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour set for launch
May 9 ------ ALREADY the fastest-growing sport in the Philippines, pickleball – the racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, table tennis, and badminton – is set for a major breakthrough with the launch of the Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour (MPPT) later this year.
Similar to what he did eight years ago when he founded a regional basketball league known as the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL), Filipino sports icon Manny Pacquiao is spearheading the efforts in putting up the MPPT, which is eyeing eight pioneering franchises for its initial rollout.
The MPPT will be launched as a professional league to be sanctioned by the Games and Amusements Board, with Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao represented in the team-based, weekends-only tour, which will feature a prize pool of no less than PHP 5M. “It’s always been my mission to promote sports and give our athletes a platform to showcase their talents and bring pride and honor to their cities and provinces,” said Pacquiao. “I know it's a relatively new sport in the Philippines, but it's exciting and easy to learn. There is an abundance of up-and-coming talents in pickleball in the country. Giving them a chance to represent their cities and provinces will make the experience even more meaningful for them and those in their communities.”
Pacquiao has also picked up the sport recently, playing it as a hobby together with his wife Jinkee in the gym in their General Santos City compound. MPPT Chief Executive Officer Joe Ramos said that three teams have already confirmed their participation, with the full roster of eight teams expected to be finalized this month.
The MPPT will kick off with a five-leg invitational this year. Each team will have three men’s and three women’s players, competing in men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. Round-robin group matches are scheduled on Saturday, with the top teams advancing to the quarterfinals on Sunday. The semifinals and finals are also slated on Sunday. “This format highlights the depth of talent in Philippine pickleball while creating a competitive and exciting team environment,” said MPPT Commissioner Mark K. Espinosa.
Source: mb.com.ph
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