LATEST NEWS

A 20-year-old delivery rider collapsed and died while queueing for financial aid at the Marikina Sports Center on Monday afternoon, according to city police. 

Capt. Julius Criste, public information officer of the Marikina police, confirmed that the victim was a 20-year-old delivery rider. The man was in line for financial assistance when he suddenly lost consciousness and was rushed to a nearby hospital. He was declared dead on arrival shortly after 5 PM.

According to police, initial medical findings revealed that the victim had dilated pupils and no pulse upon arrival. Authorities clarified that no stampede occurred and the area was not overcrowded at the time. “The line of beneficiaries was not that long,” Criste said.

The victim’s identity has not been released. His family reportedly does not intend to pursue further investigation, believing his death was due to natural causes.

REFERENCE LINK: 

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2025/04/30/2439358/man-waiting-line-ayuda-dies

VATICAN CITY — In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American and 267th pope following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.

Cardinal Prevost, a 69-year-old Augustinian priest born in Chicago, emerged from the conclave as the new leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide. The cardinal electors announced his election Thursday with the traditional declaration “Habemus Papam” from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where Pope Leo XIV greeted thousands gathered in the square.

“Peace be with all you,” the new pontiff said in his first public address, calling on global communities to “build bridges through dialogue and come together as one people, always in peace.” He also paid tribute to Pope Francis and signaled a continuation of his predecessor’s legacy of inclusivity.

Before becoming pope, Prevost served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and Archbishop-Bishop emeritus of Chiclayo in Peru, where he worked as a missionary and holds dual Peruvian citizenship. Appointed cardinal in 2023, he was responsible for selecting bishops around the world.

His papacy begins at a time of global unrest—from the Ukraine-Russia war to humanitarian crises in Gaza and Myanmar—as well as internal Church challenges, including clerical abuse scandals, the role of women, and LGBTQIA+ inclusion.

Despite the pressing issues, Pope Leo XIV is expected to bring a pastoral approach rooted in dialogue. As Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Charles John Brown noted before the conclave, "I think whoever is elected pope will make changes. That's normal. Every pope has his own idea. He keeps the teaching of the Catholic Church intact, but he presents it in his own way," 

REFERENCE LINK:

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/world/945509/american-cardinal-robert-francis-named-pope/story/

VATICAN CITY—The recent election of Pope Leo XIV has been met with optimism among conservative circles within the Catholic Church, who anticipate a return to traditional values and increased doctrinal rigor under his leadership.

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, is recognized for his commitment to orthodox teachings and his emphasis on spiritual discipline. His ascension to the papacy is seen by many as an opportunity to reinforce the Church’s foundational doctrines and moral teachings.

In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of upholding the Church’s teachings and traditions, stating, “The Church must remain steadfast in its mission, guided by the timeless truths of our faith.”

Observers note that Pope Leo XIV’s leadership may influence the Church’s stance on various contemporary issues, potentially leading to a reaffirmation of traditional positions on matters such as family, marriage, and bioethics.

REFERENCE LINK:

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/623456/conservatives-hopeful-that-pope-leo-xiv-will-restore-rigor-to-papacy

In a candid revelation during the May 12 episode of “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” renowned actress and comedian Ai-Ai delas Alas disclosed that she had been offered multiple opportunities to enter politics, including a proposition to run for mayor of Calatagan, Batangas. 

Delas Alas, known for her comedic roles and philanthropic endeavors, shared that the offers came from various political figures who recognized her influence and popularity. Despite the enticing prospects, she expressed reservations about pursuing a political career at this stage in her life.

Reflecting on the offers, Delas Alas stated, “I’ve been approached several times, and I even considered it. But I realized that my heart and passion lie in the entertainment industry and my charitable works.” She emphasized that her current focus remains on her career in showbiz and her commitment to supporting causes that uplift the marginalized sectors of society.

The revelation has sparked discussions among her fans and the public, with many expressing admiration for her dedication to her craft and her community involvement. While Delas Alas has declined the political offers, she remains an influential figure in both the entertainment industry and in her philanthropic efforts.

REFERENCE LINK: 

https://entertainment.inquirer.net/610324/ai-ai-delas-alas-reveals-she-was-offered-to-run-as-calatagan-mayor

The Philippines is ramping up its efforts in renewable energy and smart technology to address climate change and promote sustainability.

The Department of Energy (DOE) projects over 11,000 megawatts (MW) of clean energy will power the country by 2030. Major projects include a $15-billion renewable energy deal with UAE-based Masdar and BuhaWind’s 4,000-MW offshore wind project, both supporting the government’s green energy targets.

In the transport sector, the zero-tariff policy on electric vehicles (EVs) is extended until 2028, encouraging cleaner mobility. Ayala Corporation has also secured a $100-million loan from the Asian Development Bank to expand EV infrastructure.

Agriculture is also going high-tech. Denso Philippines recently launched a smart hydroponic farm in Batangas, while AI-powered apps like Agriconnect are transforming farm management with real-time tracking.

REFERENCE LINK:

https://business.inquirer.net/525020/over-11000-mw-of-clean-energy-seen-powering-ph