PH's Katrina Llegado wins Miss Supranational 2026

‘Above and beyond’: Katrina Llegado wins Miss Supranational 2026, ends PH’s 13-year title drought

Marilag Odtohan
ABS-CBN News
August 01, 2026

Pinay beauty queen Katrina Llegado has been crowned Miss Supranational 2026, ending the Philippines’ 13-year wait for the international title on Saturday, August 1 (PH Time) during the coronation night held in Poland.

The Taguig City native bested 66 other aspirants to become the successor of Eduarda Braum of Brazil, making her only the second Pinay delegate to win the Miss Supranational title.

Before Llegado’s victory, the Philippines last held the title in 2013 through Mutya Datul, whose triumph was considered historic after becoming the first Pinay and Asian contender to win the crown.

During the evening gown segment, Llegado dazzled in a Rian Fernandez creation featuring sheer long sleeves embellished with shimmering beadwork and intricate detailing. Llegado said the gown was inspired by the hope, light,and renewed inspiration that every sunrise brings. 

Her defining moment came during the final question-and-answer round when she was asked: “The moment you stopped trying to become the woman the world expected, and started becoming the woman you’re really meant to be.”

“I always believe that we should never fit into a mold. We are perfectly imperfect. I am someone who struggles [with] perfection, but I am here today doing my best, and becoming my best version [of myself]. And here in Miss Supranational, I know I belong [here]. I know [there’s] a place for me, and this is becoming Supra, above and beyond,” Llegado responded.

Ahead of the coronation night, the beauty queen had already strutted the pre-pageant events of the competition, particularly when she donned a gumamela-inspired national costume featuring a voluminous coral-pink ensemble composed of layered petals.

Hours before taking the Miss Supranational finals night, Llegado also shared a childhood photo of herself on social media with the caption, “Always doing it for my younger self.” 

The post quickly resonated with pageant fans who saw it as a heartfelt reflection on the journey that led her to the international stage.

This was not Llegado’s first international pageant stint. She previously represented the Philippines at Reina Hispanoamericana 2019 in Bolivia, where she finished as Quinta Finalista (5th runner-up).

She secured her ticket to Miss Supranational 2026 more than a year ago after reaching the finals of Miss Universe Philippines 2025.

Earlier this year, Llegado already crowned her successor as Miss Supranational Philippines in Allyson Hetland of Pampanga. 

Completing the Miss Supranational 2026 court were: Eve Gilles of France as 1st runner-up; Lara Marina of Brazil as 2nd runner-up; Ndah Eno of Nigeria as 3rd runner-up; and Karolina Gorylova of the Czech Republic as 4th runner-up. 

The pageant also named its continental titleholders: Tracy Nabukeera of Tanzania for Africa, Silvia Maestre of Venezuela for the Americas, Agnes Rahajeng of Indonesia for Asia and Oceania, Rasheda Green of Jamaica for the Caribbean, and Oliwia Mikulska of Poland for Europe.

Following the coronation, congratulations poured in from the Philippine pageant community. Mutya Datul warmly welcomed Llegado into the circle of Miss Supranational winners, while the Miss Universe Philippines Organization also celebrated the victory as another milestone for the country’s pageant legacy.

Former Reina Hispanoamericana 2017 winner Winwyn Marquez joined the growing list of beauty queens applauding Llegado’s achievement, while Miss Supranational 2025 3rd runner-up Tarah Valencia and Miss International 2025 4th runner-up Myrna Esguerra expressed their support through an Instagram Story shortly after the coronation.

Philippines has emerged as a global convergence hub for upholding international law

PH now 'convergence hub' for upholding int’l law –DND chief

By Priam Nepomuceno
Philippine News Agency
July 12, 2026

MANILA – The Philippines has emerged as a global convergence hub for upholding international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) following the historic July 12, 2016 Arbitral Award, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said on Sunday.

The defense chief highlighted this on the 10th anniversary of the Arbitral Award, calling it a landmark decision that affirmed the Philippines’ rights and entitlements in its exclusive economic zone.

"Given the importance of our location and the fundamental principles of international law we uphold, countries from all over the world have found common cause with us which we channel into purposive action," Teodoro said in a statement.

This is reflected by the growing number of nations that now hold Visiting Forces Agreements (VFAs) with the Philippines. These include the United States, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Canada, and most recently France, which became the first European country to sign a VFA with the Philippines early this year.

Teodoro said Philippine partnerships are "increasing because these are based on fundamental freedoms, transparency, and the rule of law unlike sinister and cabalistic United Front Work and illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions."

He noted how "heartening" it is to see Filipinos’ growing awareness and deep sense of ownership over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

This shifting mindset is consistently backed by public opinion polls, including a recent survey showing that 86 percent of Filipinos support government collaboration with like-minded countries to defend the area, he added.

"We are focused on the fundamental bedrock of our mission-to build a strong, capable, responsive and deterrent defense system with particular attention on capacitating the Armed Forces of the Philippines for the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept mission while preserving the gains in internal security operations. Without public support, this task cannot be achieved," Teodoro said.

Teodoro also vowed that the defense sector will do everything within its power to enforce the landmark maritime ruling and preserve Philippine territory, while planning to deepen public knowledge of the WPS.

"The DND, together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, will continue to be unstinting in the struggle to enforce this Award and to preserve our territorial integrity," he said.

The DND chief likewise reiterated their resolve to "resist and combat any attempt to deny our rights and entitlements in the WPS", adding these resources belong not just to the present but to future generations of Filipinos.

Meanwhile, National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Oban Jr., who is also the chair of the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS), said the landmark decision reaffirmed what international law has long recognized: that maritime rights and entitlements are determined by law, not by power or coercion.

"Rendered pursuant to the UNCLOS, the Award is final and legally binding and remains a lasting affirmation of the rule of law in the maritime domain," he said.

Oban was also pleased to note that the Award continues to be recognized and cited in international jurisprudence, reinforcing the rule of law as the strongest foundation for the peaceful settlement of disputes among nations.

The NSA said the ruling affirms the Philippines' sovereign rights and lawful maritime entitlements under international law.

"As we commemorate this milestone, we recognize the unwavering dedication of our uniformed personnel, public servants, fisherfolk, coastal communities, and every Filipino who contributes to protecting our maritime interests. Their service, sacrifice, and resilience remind us that the Award (finds) meaning not only in law, but also in the daily efforts of those who safeguard and benefit from our seas," Oban added. (PNA)

Heart Evangelista shines at Max Mara Shanghai celebration

Heart Evangelista shines at Max Mara Shanghai celebration

GMA Lifestyle
10 July 2026

Heart Evangelista is truly living up to her reputation as a global fashion and style icon as she makes a splash at a fashion event in Asia before making her way to France for Paris Fashion Week.

While Heart is currently attending multiple fashion shows in France for Paris Fashion Week, she was already the star of the show at the Max Mara 75th anniversary celebrations held in Shanghai. In the Reel, Heart lauded Max Mara's 75-year history, noting that “they have never failed with everything that they have done.”

“It's such a vibe. It's celebrating 75 years of Max Mara…they have never failed with everything that they have done,” she said. “You can see with their archival pieces how they've touched culture. They have continued to evolve, stay classic but adapt to the times.”

Heart further emphasized her point by writing in the caption: “A collection inspired by the future, presented in a city that never stops evolving.”

Heart's presence at the 25th Max Mara anniversary celebrations was just a prelude to her actually meeting the label's current fashion director and coordinator. She recently posted multiple photos of her with designer Laura Lusuardi, writing in the caption to the post that meeting Laura Lusuardi was a lovely moment.

Aside from Laura Lusuardi, Heart has met multiple prominent names in fashion over several years. Back in February, Heart was personally invited by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya of Thailand to attend the princess' fashion show.

Heart was also invited to the KRAAM International Symposium 2025: Hands Across Culture event in November last year. The KRAAM International Symposium is a project by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya of Thailand to connect Thai weavers with international experts to advance traditional Kraam or indigo fabric products.

Another designer Heart frequently works with is Italian designer Giambattista Valli, who she has been working with as far back as 2023. Back then, she posted a couple of photos of her with him and wrote in the caption that there is “something exciting happening soon”. She also wrote that she had a “sweet afternoon” with the then 57-year-old ready-to-wear and haute couture designer.

Michelin-rated Filipino Restos around the World

16 Michelin-recognized Filipino restaurants around the world

JC Cailles Lo
ABS-CBN News
July 04, 2026

There's no doubt that the Philippines is home to many world-class restaurants recognized by the Michelin Guide — 108 to be exact. But for those living abroad who crave Filipino food or are looking to experience Filipino cuisine for the first time, here's a list of award-winning Filipino restaurants featured in the Michelin Guide and where to find them.

NEW ZEALAND | Bar Magda (Auckland)

Fresh from its win at the inaugural Michelin Guide New Zealand 2026 ceremony held on June 30, this hidden bar and restaurant in Auckland, helmed by Davao-born Carlo Buenaventura, is the sole dining destination to make the list. Now part of the Michelin-selected distinction, expect dishes inspired by the chef’s Mindanaoan heritage, including a new take on Chavacano-style Paella.

SINGAPORE | Hayop ni Manam (Singapore)

Among the 302 restaurants in the Michelin Guide Singapore, Hayop is the only Filipino restaurant on the list. Created by the team behind the Michelin Bib Gourmand Manam, Hayop offers a more elevated take on Filipino cuisine, featuring premium versions of its signature dishes like the iconic Watermelon Sinigang, but this time uses Australian Wagyu short ribs.

UNITED KINGDOM | Belly (Kentish)

Located in Kentish Town, a vibrant neighborhood in Northwest London, this Michelin-selected restaurant is a modern Filipino-inspired French bistro known for its fresh interpretations of classic dishes and its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Expect offerings such as Seafood Caldereta, Chargrilled Scallop Bicol Express, and Ube Tiramisu.

UNITED KINGDOM | Donia (London)

This modern Filipino restaurant made history as the first and only Filipino restaurant in the UK to earn a Michelin Bib Gourmand, a distinction recognizing restaurants that offer high-quality food at great value. The sharing style menu pays homage to the chef’s Filipino roots while showcasing the best of British seasonal produce. Standout dishes include Sea Bream Kinilaw, Lamb Shoulder Caldereta Pie, and Adobo Mushroom Croquetas.

IRELAND | Kaldero (Dublin)

Named after the Filipino word for cooking pot, this is the only Filipino restaurant recognized by the Michelin Guide Ireland. Inspired by the Filipino tradition of communal dining, the Dublin-based restaurant serves pulutan-style snacks, generous sharing plates, and fire-cooked dishes. Diners can choose from a curated à la carte menu or a generous sharing set featuring ulams such as Bistek, Kare Kare, and Squid Adobo.

 

FRANCE | Maison Nipa (Fillé)

Just about 2.5 hours from Paris by car, or accessible by train and bus, Fillé is a charming, peaceful village in the Pays de la Loire region of western France. Helmed by a Franco-Filipino couple, the sole Filipino Michelin-selected restaurant in France serves surprise seasonal five or seven-course menus, along with shorter lunch menus that change every eight weeks.

CANADA | BB’s (Toronto)

Bright and filled with natural light, the only Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded Filipino diner in Toronto and the whole of Canada serves a straightforward menu for brunch and dinner. Expect Filipino breakfast staples like Silog meals with your choice of protein, while the dinner menu features favorites like Lechon Kawali, Pork Sinigang, and fast-food-inspired Spaghetti.

USA | Kasama (Chicago)

The highest-ranked restaurant on this list, Kasama holds two Michelin Stars, a distinction recognizing excellent cooking worth a detour. Kasama is also arguably the first and so far the only two-Michelin-Star restaurant in the world serving Filipino cuisine. Located in Chicago, it is both a bakery and a modern Filipino restaurant, offering a casual à la carte daytime menu and a seasonal tasting menu for dinner.

USA | Naides (San Francisco)

This San Francisco-based restaurant earned its first Michelin star in June 2026, just over six months after opening. The distinction recognizes restaurants with high-quality cooking that is worth a stop. Named after the chef's mother, Naides serves modern interpretations of Filipino cuisine with a strong focus on preservation and fermentation in an intimate dining room.

USA | Kaya (Orlando)

This Filipino neighborhood restaurant and bar in Orlando, Florida, is built on the Filipino phrase "kaya natin," reflecting a steadfast belief that we can create and do things on our own terms. It is also the only restaurant on this list to earn a Michelin Green Star, recognizing its strong commitment to sustainable gastronomy. As a farm-to-table restaurant, it works closely with local suppliers and creatively uses by-products to minimize waste.

USA | Boonie's (Chicago)

A Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant in Chicago, Boonie’s describes itself as a cozy Filipino eatery. Its name is inspired by the surname of chef’s grandmother — Bondoc. What began as a pop-up has grown into a full-fledged restaurant with a loyal following, serving timeless Filipino favorites such as Longsilog, Lumpiang Shanghai, and Crispy Pata. The restaurant also offers seasonal menus for catering and private events.

USA | Estrellita (Atlanta)

A Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant in Atlanta since 2023, Estrellita is named after the Spanish word for little star and aims to be exactly that in their Grant Park neighborhood. The restaurant welcomes guests in a warm, cozy setting that feels "like walking through the front door of a classic Filipino home." The menu showcases family recipes passed down from the chef's mother, including classics like Beef Nilaga, Pork Adobo, and Filipino Chicken BBQ.

USA | FOB Kitchen (Oakland)

A Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant in Oakland, California, FOB Kitchen believes in making every guest feel like family. The chef and owner is also a proud advocate for people of color, women, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Inspired by recipes she learned from her mother and grandmother during a 2015 visit to the Philippines, the menu focuses on comforting Filipino home cooking.

USA | Bayan Ko (Chicago)

The Michelin-selected restaurant in Chicago currently offers a unique six-course Surf & Turf tasting menu inspired by Filipino and Cuban cuisines, reflecting the personal backgrounds of its owners — a Filipino husband and a Cuban wife. The new menu includes Filipino dishes such as Pancit Luglug and Kare-Kare, alongside Cuban classics like Croquetas and Tamales.

USA | Kamayan ATL (Doraville)

The Michelin-selected restaurant is located in Doraville, Georgia, near Atlanta. It offers an extensive à la carte menu and prides itself on serving authentic Filipino cuisine guided by the Filipino value of Bayanihan. The highlight for first-time guests is the Kamayan feast, which must be pre-booked. This communal dining experience features dishes served on banana leaves and eaten by hand.

USA | Abaca (San Francisco)

Widely regarded as San Francisco's premier Filipino-Californian restaurant, this contemporary establishment offers three distinct menus: weekday breakfast, weekend brunch, and dinner, including a family-style menu. It blends traditional Filipino flavors with the freshest ingredients from Northern California, resulting in standout dishes such as Tortang Talong, Lobster Arroz Caldo, and Bistek American Wagyu Wellington.

Billy Crawford wins 'Mask Singer France' Season 9

Billy Crawford wins 'Mask Singer France' Season 9

GMA News
30 June 2026

Billy Crawford is the winner of "Mask Singer France" Season 9!

The Filipino entertainer portrayed The Donkey or L'Ane throughout the show. Billy performed "Beat It" by Michael Jackson in the finale.

"This was an absolutely amazing experience!" Billy said on Instagram.

He thanked "The Masked Singer" family for keeping him a secret for a whole month, as well as the costume designers for their patience and the adjustments they made.

Billy also thanked everyone who voted for him.

"L'Ane was a very special character to me because I chose it with my son Amari in mind. I figured if he loved it, everyone else would too!" Billy said.

"Most of all, thank You, Lord God, for giving me the courage, strength, and opportunity to compete—and on top of that, to win!" he added.

"Mask Singer" is a competition show in which celebrities sing in costume and hide their identities.

Billy previously won "Dancing With The Stars France" in 2022.

He was previously a judge on "The Voice Kids Philippines."

Pinay food blogger wins Blogger Awards at Cannes

Abi Marquez bags Best Food Blogger award at World Influencers and Bloggers Awards at Cannes

GMA Integrated News

25 May 2025

The Philippines' very own Lumpia Queen is adding another international recognition to her name!

On Facebook, Abi Marquez proudly shared that she won the Best Food Blogger award at the World Influencers and Bloggers Awards (WIBA) 2025 in Cannes, France.

"OMG guys nanalo ako," the food content creator wrote as a caption of her selfie holding her WIBA trophy.

Earlier, Abi shared her outfit for the awards night: a custom red Filipiniana by Jo Rubio inspired by Pinoy spaghetti.

Her fully realized look features details true to the inspiration, including spaghetti-inspired nail art, a pasta box as a bag, and a "Kain Tayo" embossed in the gown train.

"Bringing the heart of Filipino creativity and food to a global stage!" she said.

The WIBA ceremony is held annually during the Cannes Film Festival and recognizes top influencers and bloggers from around the globe across multiple industries, including fashion, travel, lifestyle, and food.

Earlier in May, Abi was nominated for the first time at the 17th Shorty Awards in the TikTok Presence category.

Abi's Shorty Awards nomination followed the two nods she received from the 2025 Webby Awards last April, where she was up for two honors: The Webby Award, selected by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS), and the Webby People's Voice Award, won by public voting. 

In 2024, Abi was nominated for the prestigious James Beard 2024 Media Awards' social media account category and was among the seven Filipinos in the Forbes 30 under 30 Class of 2024.

Congratulations, Lumpia Queen!

—Hermes Joy Tunac/MGP, GMA Integrated News

PH cafes among the world's best shops

Four PH cafes among the World's 100 Best Coffee Shops

Story by Yoniel Acebuche

Philstar Life

19 February 2025

Four cafés from the Philippines have earned spots in the inaugural World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops list.

This was revealed during the Coffee Fest Madrid 2025, which took place from Feb. 15 to 17. 

The country's Yardstick Coffee clinched the 18th spot, followed by El Union Coffee at 61st, Single Origin at 83rd, and Crema & Cream Coffee Roasters at 86th. 

Yardstick Coffee is a specialty coffee company in Manila. It was established in 2013 to bring "inherent sweetness and brightness of specialty-grade coffee." The café has branches in Legazpi Village, MOA Square, Podium, Rockwell, Salcedo Village, SM Aura, Otaku Room BGC, Opus Mall, and the Corner House in San Juan.

Yardstick Coffee is a specialty coffee company in Manila. It was established in 2013 to bring "inherent sweetness and brightness of specialty-grade coffee." The café has branches in Legazpi Village, MOA Square, Podium, Rockwell, Salcedo Village, SM Aura, Otaku Room BGC, Opus Mall, and the Corner House in San Juan.

El Union Coffee, on the other hand, is located at Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union. It serves Philippine coffees, Baguio-made pastries, and its signature dirty horchata. As you sip your cup of joe, you get to enjoy a gorgeous backdrop of Itogon Valley views and a laid-back beach vibe.

Meanwhile, Single Origin serves specialty coffee, comfort food, and craft cocktails. It has branches all over the metro at Rockwell, Salcedo, Greenbelt 5 in Makati, Bonifacio High Street in Taguig, Molito Lifestyle Center in Muntinlupa, MOA Square in Pasay, and Opus Mall and Ayala Malls Vertis North in Quezon City. 

Lastly, Crema & Cream Coffee Roasters, nestled at Brgy. Sacred Heart, Diliman, Quezon City, is a specialty coffee roaster and consultancy place. 

"From roasting to brewing, to serving and even teaching, we make sure we deliver our very best not only in quality but hospitality and professionalism as well," it said. 

Meanwhile, Toby’s Estate Coffee Roasters in Australia gained the first spot. This was followed by Onyx Coffee LAB (USA), Gota Coffee Experts (Austria), Proud Mary Coffee (Australia), and Tim Wendelboe (Norway), respectively. 

Apartment Coffee (Singapore), Kawa (France), Coffee Anthology (Australia), Story of Ono (Malaysia), and Tropicalia Coffee (Colombia) were hailed at the 6th to 10th spot, respectively. 

According to its website, the organizers established a "comprehensive set of criteria" to ensure a thorough and fair assessment to identify the finest coffee shops worldwide. 

They took into consideration factors such as the quality of coffee, barista expertise, customer service, innovation, ambiance and atmosphere, sustainability practices, food and pastry quality, and consistency. 

The organizers have also implemented a robust voting system consisting of public voting, an expert panel, vote weighting, a nomination process, and a final selection. The highest combined scores from public and expert votes will be honored as the World’s Best Coffee Shops.

Philippines’ CJ Opiaza secures 1st Runner-Up in MGI 2024

India’s Rachel Gupta wins Miss Grand International 2024; Philippines’ CJ Opiaza secures 1st Runner-Up

LionhearTV
26 October 2024

India’s Rachel Gupta emerged as the Miss Grand International 2024 winner in a spectacular finale held in Thailand, surpassing 68 other contestants to claim the title.

Representing the Philippines, CJ Opiaza finished as 1st runner-up, continuing the country’s journey to win its first Miss Grand International crown.

In the Q&A portion, Gupta highlighted global poverty and resource scarcity, calling on world leaders to address overpopulation and equitable resource distribution.

“The most critical issue today is poverty due to overpopulation and limited resources,” Gupta stated.

 “World leaders need to take responsibility to ensure that resources are enough for everyone by promoting birth control methods globally.”

Reflecting on her background, Gupta added, “In India, not everyone has access to essentials like food, water, and education, which is the case in many parts of the world. We must stop conflicts and work together to secure resources for all.”

Myanmar’s Thae Su Nyein placed as 2nd runner-up, with France’s Safiétou Kabengele and Brazil’s Talita Hartmann completing the Top 5 as 3rd and 4th runners-up, respectively. Delegates from the Dominican Republic, Indonesia, Peru, Spain, and the United Kingdom were recognized as 5th runners-up.

Despite the Philippines’ strong finish, the elusive Miss Grand International crown remains out of reach, with previous close calls by Nicole Cordoves in 2016 and Samantha Bernardo in 2020/2021.

Miss Grand International 2024 Official Results:

Placements

Miss Grand International 2024: India (Rachel Gupta)

1st Runner-Up: Philippines (CJ Opiaza)

2nd Runner-Up: Myanmar (Thae Su Nyein)

3rd Runner-Up: France (Safiétou Kabengele)

4th Runner-Up: Brazil (Talita Hartmann)

Top 10 (5th Runners-Up)

Dominican Republic (María Felix)

Indonesia (Nova Liana)

Peru (Arlette Rujel)

Spain (Susana Medina)

United Kingdom (Amy Viranya Berry)

Top 20

Thailand (Malin Chara-anan)

Colombia (Maria Angelica Valero)

US Virgin Islands (Samantha Keaton)

Malaysia (Melisha Lin)

Mexico (Tania Estrada)

Guatemala (Cristina Gonzalo)

El Salvador (Giulia Zanoni)

Curacao (Akisha Albert)

Paraguay (Sharon Capó)

Japan (Luma Naomi Shigemitsu)

Special Awards

Best in Evening Gown: Ghana

Best in Swimsuit: Brazil

Miss Popular Vote: Indonesia

Country’s Power of the Year: Thailand

Grand Voice Award: Trinidad and Tobago

Best National Costume: Brazil, Ecuador, and Honduras

Charming by Chat Cosmetics: Indonesia

Beauty Skin by Hya Booster Serum: Thailand and Myanmar

I’Aura Queen: Myanmar

Pinoy beer is best flavored beer in the world

Filipino craft beer named the World’s Best for 2024

Mary Villegas
Inquirer.net
22 August 2024

Victory tastes as sweet as honey. With Carlos Yulo becoming the first Filipino male Olympic gold medalist in the country’s history, here comes another first. Engkanto Brewery’s High Hive Honey Ale has clinched the highest international honor – World’s Best Beer for 2024 in the flavored category.

Engkanto Brewery has gained recognition at the World Beer Awards for the past four years, but this year marks a milestone achievement for the Filipino brand, being named the World’s Best Beer in the Flavored Honey and Maple Syrup beer category.

Engkanto emerged on top, outshining 70 contenders from France, Canada, Netherlands and other countries at the annual beer competition and placing Filipino craft beer on the world map.

 “We’re buzzin’ for the locally brewed Honey Ale claiming the highest award for its category in this year’s World Beer Awards 2024. Cheers to local craft beers!” the company wrote in an Instagram post.

Philippines moved four notches up in the latest FIBA world men's rankings

PH jumps 4 spots up the FIBA men's rankings

Story by Richard Dy 
Manila Times
15 Aug 2024

The Philippines moved four notches up in the latest FIBA world men's basketball rankings, jumping from 38th to 34th spot a few days after the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The plus-4 jump in the FIBA rankings can be attributed to surprise showing of Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga, Latvia where the Filipinos shock the host country which was ranked No. 6 in the world back then.

The Philippines lost by a narrow margin in its final group stage assignment versus Georgia, but its stunning win over Latvia was good enough to earn the Philippines a spot in the semifinals.

Mentored by Tim Cone, Gilas Pilipinas eventually bowed to Brazil, which went on to punch a ticket in the Olympics. Brazil managed to reach the Olympic quarterfinals in Paris, France.

Latvia, meanwhile, dropped three places down, from sixth to ninth in the current world rankings.

Among the Asian basketball squads, Japan also made a huge leap, going up from 26th to 21st, thanks to its 11th place finish in the Paris Olympics.

Even South Sudan, which lost by just a point to the NBA star-studded USA team in their exhibition play, scored a plus-11 to climb up to 23rd in FIBA rankings.

United States stayed at No. 1 in the men's ranking following its six-game sweep in Paris en route to capturing its fifth straight Olympic gold medal.

Serbia also improved to No. 2 following its Olympic bronze medal, beating No. 3 Germany.

France, led by Victor Wembanyama, improved five spots to No. 4 after its silver medal in the Olympic Games.

EJ Obiena Is Ushering In A Golden Age of Filipino Sport

 EJ Obiena Is Ushering In A Golden Age of Filipino Sport

BY JASON INOCENCIO
PHOTOGRAPHS BY MODESTO III BANZO

Vogue Philippines
01 July 2024

Despite facing stiff competition, EJ Obiena is steadfast on his track to the Paris summer games. “Being in a constant grind is immeasurable,” he says. “And I hope by Paris I should be able to put them into fruition and use all the knowledge that I have, and hopefully bring back a medal.”

This 2024 marks a century of Philippine participation in the Olympic Games. Ironically, the first time the country sent athletes to the Olympiad in 1924, Paris, France was also the host city. It took almost a month for that first contingent of Filipino athletes to travel from Manila to Paris a century ago. It would take 97 years before a Filipino would finally win Olympic gold.

In the century since that first Paris Olympiad, a new generation of Filipinos has been training and preparing their minds and bodies in the hopes of repeating what weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz accomplished at the Tokyo Olympics. One of them is Ernest John (“EJ”) Obiena, the Tondo-born pole vaulter who has dominated the sport in recent seasons.

The biggest obstacle

What has not been said already about Obiena? He has dominated Asian competition in recent years and has consistently been ranked #2 globally, as per the World Athletics Organization. Since his participation in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he’s seen a flurry of gold medals, including setting the new Asian record of six meters. Marking a golden age for his chosen discipline of pole vaulting, his achievements position him as a formidable contender in global athletics, making his pursuit of gold at the Paris Olympics.

His main competition also happens to be a friend in Sweden’s Armand Duplantis, whose performance has pushed the bar higher than anyone else in history. He’s broken the men’s pole vault record on eight separate occasions, clearing 6.24 meters at an opening Diamond League meet in China last April. 

“He [Duplantis] has lifted the sport to a level it’s never been,” Obiena says of his rival. “And he’s pulling everyone with him. That’s the good side of it. The bad side of it is that jumping as high as six meters now would not mean a win.” 

Despite facing fierce competition from Duplantis, Obiena remains steadfast and resolute in his pursuits. His unwavering determination drives him to challenge the heights set, proving his dedication to excelling even more. “I’m a competitor, I want to win,” Obiena quickly replies. “Every time I step on the track, I want to win. Having [Duplantis] in the picture makes things more difficult, but at the same time, sweeter as well.”

The Olympic dream

After a run at this year’s fast-approaching Summer Games, what he’ll undoubtedly take home with him will be more than medals, but an ushering of a new era of Filipino sporting, inspired by his resilience in the face of his sole hurdle in Duplantis. 

And there is hope yet. Diaz changed the entire field of Philippine sports when she brought home silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics and went even further with her Tokyo Games gold. Her win has sparked something in the athlete: the idea that Olympic gold isn’t only a faraway dream, but a very possible outcome in his endeavors. 

He bares that the experience he has gained from the Tokyo Olympics, as well as other pole vault competitions, have allowed him to be calmer heading to Paris. “Hopefully being in a constant grind with these world-class pole vaulters is immeasurable, and I hope by Paris I should be able to put them into fruition and use all the knowledge that I have and hopefully bring back a medal.”

Philippines elected as deputy member to ILO

Philippines elected as deputy member to ILO—DOLE

By Vito Barcelo
Manila Standard
June 8, 2024

The Philippines has been elected as deputy member to the Governing Body of the International Labor Organization (ILO), 16 years after it was elected in a titular capacity in 2005-2008, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma announced.

The title was a significant achievement in the country’s commitment to adopt and foster labor standards in protecting the workers’ rights and well-being across the globe, Laguesma said in a statement.

The election took place during the 112th International Labor Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.

Laguesma said the election is a testament to the Philippines’ active and continuous participation in the international labor community by shaping fair and equitable global policies on work practices and conditions.

The Philippines and other elected member-states will serve a three-year term until June 2027.

The Governing Body is the executive arm of the ILO, which plays a crucial role in determining the organization’s plans, setting the agenda for the International Labor Conference, adopting proposed activities and budget, and electing the ILO’s Director-General.

Currently, the ILO Governing Body consists of 56 titular members composed of 28 government representatives, 14 employer representatives, 14 worker representatives, as well as 66 deputy members, including 28 from governments, 19 from employers, and 19 from the workers’ sector.

Permanently occupying 10 government seats are Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The Philippines’ new role underscores the international labor community’s recognition of its leadership, as evidenced by its election and elevation as a deputy member.

It also highlights the country’s commitment to addressing critical issues in the global labor market, particularly in promoting decent work and enhancing the care economy.

Philippines' Kenneth Stromsnes finishes 2nd runner-up in Manhunt International 2024

Philippines' Kenneth Stromsnes finishes 2nd runner-up in Manhunt International 2024

ABS-CBN News
Published May 29, 2024

The Philippines continues to cement its position as a pageant powerhouse, with another representative delivering an impressive performance. 

Kenneth Stromsnes finished as second runner-up in the recently concluded Manhunt International 2024 in Ayutthaya, Thailand. 

He also won Best in Personality, and was one of the winners of the Chat Influencer award. 

"We made it, Philippines! We're second runner-up here in Manhunt International. Thank you so much," Stromsnes said in a video posted by Mister Pilipinas Worldwide, which sent him as the country's delegate this year.

Thailand's Kevin Dasom was proclaimed Manhunt International 2024, with the rest of the runners-up coming from France, Venezuela, and Italy. 

Recto: PH an 'economic giant' by 2033

Recto: PH an 'economic giant' by 2033

By Anna Leah Gonzales
Philippine News Agency
May 27, 2024

MANILA – The Philippine economy is expected to continue posting strong growth and is seen to be one of the economic giants by 2033, Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Ralph Recto said on Monday.

In his speech at the Philippine Economic Briefing at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, Recto said global research firms and analysts expect the Philippines to grow by 5.8 to 6.3 percent this year, outperforming ASEAN economies.

For 2025, Philippine economic growth is projected to hit 5.9 percent to 6.5 percent.

"This trajectory puts us firmly on course to become a trillion-dollar economy in less than a decade. This means that by 2033, our economy will nearly triple in size, placing us in the league of economic giants like China, Japan, India, and South Korea," Recto said.

"And we are expected to continue outpacing the growth of Asia's economic powerhouses in the years to come. Fast forward to 2075, the Philippines will overtake France to become the 14th largest economy in the world," he said.

Recto assured the public that the government is addressing bottlenecks to encourage investments in high-priority sectors.

"These include infrastructure, renewable energy and power, critical minerals, financial services, healthcare, consumer and retail, manufacturing, and ITBPM (information technology and business process management), among others," he said.

Recto said the government is also intensifying efforts to address investor concerns and is doubling efforts to harness the country's workforce.

He said these efforts aim to provide pathways out of poverty for about 14 million Filipinos, or cutting poverty incidence to 9 percent, before or at the end of the President's term.

"This is the single most important number that we aim to achieve. Even with headwinds along the way, there are a lot of reasons to be confident and excited about our nation’s future," he added. (PNA)