UP Manila enters Global Top 500 ranking

UP Manila enters Global Top 500 – U.S. News & World Report

Andrea Gregorio
Inquirer.net
05 October 2026

MANILA, Philippines —The University of the Philippines (UP) Manila emerged as the Philippines’ lone representative in the global Top 500 of the U.S. News & World Report’s 2026-2027 Best Global Universities rankings.

The country’s premier health sciences university rose 32 places from its previous ranking of No. 479 to No. 447 among 2,250 universities evaluated by U.S. News & World Report.

UP Manila said Monday that it “joined other universities that entered the roster of the best universities in the world, including Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University, and Harvard University, among others.”

UP Manila ranked first in normalized citation impact and in the percentage of highly cited papers among the top 1 percent most-cited publications.

It also placed No. 112 among the best universities in Asia and No. 972 in global research reputation.

Despite posting a lower global score of 50.8 in the latest rankings compared with its 52.5 score in the 2024-2025 rankings, UP Manila improved its overall position.

The rankings assess universities based on 13 indicators covering academic research performance, as well as global and regional reputation.

These include publication output, citations, books, international collaborations, conferences, and research reputation.

U.S. News & World Report said the indicators were selected to allow comparisons of higher education institutions across countries.

The media company noted that while the rankings primarily measure academic research and reputation, universities included in the list are likely to have highly respected faculty members.

The methodology for the five regional rankings—covering Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Europe, and Latin America—was also based on each institution’s standing in the overall Best Global Universities rankings, according to U.S. News & World Report. /mcm

Philippines maintains spot in Global Gender Gap index 2026

Philippines retains spot in Global Gender Gap index

Louella Desiderio 
The Philippine Star 
September 17, 2026 

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines held on to the 20th spot out of 145 economies in this year’s Global Gender Gap Index released by the World Economic Forum (WEF).

The report, which tracks progress in closing the gender gap, showed that the Philippines maintained its ranking even as its gender parity score declined slightly to 78 percent this year from 78.1 percent last year.

It also showed that the Philippines remained one of the most consistent and higher ranked performers in East Asia and the Pacific, placing third in this year’s edition.

“Despite this, the Philippines has failed to keep the momentum that kept the economy in the top 10 on 13 prior editions,” the WEF said.

Over the last two decades, the Philippines has narrowed the overall gender gap by 2.8 percentage points from 75.2 percent in 2006.

WEF ranks economies by looking at gender parity across four dimensions: economic participation, educational attainment, health and survival and political empowerment.

In economic participation, the Philippines placed 17th with a score of 78.3 percent, down from the previous year’s 13th spot and 79 percent score.

WEF said the result also reduces the country’s two-decade advancement to a total of +2.5 percentage points over its 2006 score as economic indicators had varying trajectories.

When it comes to educational attainment, the Philippines ranked 89th with a score of 98.9 percent. The ranking is down from last year’s 87th spot, but the score improved slightly from 98.8 percent.

In terms of health and survival, the Philippines’ rank and score improved to 76th and 96.9 percent, respectively, from last year’s 85th and 96.7 percent.

The Philippines also saw its ranking and score improve in political empowerment to 27th and 37.9 percent, respectively, from 30th and 37.7 percent last year.

Overall, Iceland topped the rankings for the 17th consecutive year, with 93 percent of the gender gap closed.

This was followed by Finland and Norway, which placed second and third for the third year running.

Completing the top 10 are Namibia, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Sweden, Australia, Germany and Ireland.

WEF managing director Saadia Zahidi said that the data in the last 20 years show that gender parity is achievable, with economies at every income level making progress.

PH wins big at 2026 World Hip Hop Dance Championship

PH wins big at 2026 World Hip Hop Dance Championship

GMA Lifestyle
03 August 2024

The Philippines did it again! Five Filipino dance crews dominated the 2026 World Hip Hop Dance Championship held from July 25 to August 1, 2026, at the Mullett Arena in Phoenix, Arizona, United States.

After gruesome showdowns of skill and talent, all-queer Filipino dance group Femme MNL bagged the gold at the Megacrew Division, followed by The Crew from the Philippines and The Jukebox from Mexico for the silver and bronze, respectively.

Likewise, PH bet HQ took home the gold at the Adult Division, followed by Woodpecker from Japan for the silver medal and Folk Jumpers from the Philippines for the bronze medal.

Meanwhile, France's Breakfast aced the Junior Division and bagged the gold, and is joined by Japan's Monsoon! for silver and the Philippines' Sayawatha Jr. for the bronze.

Aside from Femme MNL, The Crew, HQ, Folk Jumpers, and Sayawatha Jr., the Philippines was represented by A-Kidz for the Junior Division, Sayawatha for the Varsity Division, NDDU Generals, A-Gyalz, and A-Boiz for the Adult Division, UNRVLD for the Minicrew Division, and A-Kidz for the JV Megacrew Division.

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)

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.

Docu film on West Philippine Sea wins at NZ film fest

West Philippine Sea documentary 'Food Delivery' wins award at New Zealand film festival

John Patrick Magno Ranara
Philstar Global
05 July 2025

A documentary exploring the West Philippine Sea dispute between the Philippines and China has been recognized at New Zealand's Doc Edge Festival.

Production company Voyage Studios announced that their film, Food Delivery: Fresh from the West Philippine Sea, won the Tides of Change Award at the country's international documentary film festival.

"This is for every Filipino defending the West Philippine Sea. In the face of silence and fear, we carry the truth, and now the world hears us," the studio stated.

"The journey has just begun. May more people see our fight," they added. 

The Tides of Change category recognizes films that have stories that "flow through oceans, rivers, and pools—not as scenery, but as lifeblood—shaping identity, struggle, and transformation in currents both tender and turbulent."

Since Doc Edge is an Academy Awards-qualifying festival, the film will receive consideration for an Oscar in 2025.

'It belongs to the Filipino people'

Director Baby Ruth Villarama articulates the significance of the West Philippine Sea, emphasizing its deep connection to the Filipino people.

"Winning the Tides of Change Award means a lot, not just for our team but for the Filipino communities who live these stories every day," she told PhilSTAR L!fe. "The film’s core message is simple: there is no need to dispute what is already true. The West Philippine Sea exists. It belongs to the Filipino people. It is part of our daily life. It’s where our people provide for us, dream, and survive. It’s not just a political line. It’s personal."

While making the film, Villarama learned that "truth doesn’t need to shout."

"When you stay with the human stories, when you honor lived experiences, the truth speaks for itself," she said.

"We don’t have to add fire to fire. We just have to tell the story as it is with sincerity. Sometimes that’s more powerful than any political narrative because it disarms without hostility. It invites conversation instead of division. And maybe that’s the quiet power of Filipino storytelling: we are not here to conquer or tear anyone down. We are here to remember who we truly are, and what we’re capable of when we choose to stand together," she continued.

Attempts to suppress the film

Food Delivery centers on the "rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea, Filipino fishermen, Coast Guard, and Navy personnel risk everything to defend their waters and way of life."

It puts audiences into the shoes of Arnel Satam, a fisherman who is being pursued by the China Coast Guard near Scarborough Shoal.

"With rare access to frontline officers, it captures their quiet heroism, personal sacrifice, and unwavering duty. At its heart is a remarkable alliance: fishermen and Coast Guard risking their lives together to deliver food and aid. Visually stunning and deeply moving, this is a story of resilience, unity, and the fight for freedom," Doc Edge described on its website.

They dubbed the documentary a "banned film that must be seen."

This likely stems from its controversial withdrawal from Puregold's CinePanalo Film Festival in Quezon City, where it was originally set to premiere last March but was pulled due to "external factors."

In a joint statement, festival director Chris Cahilig and Villarama said, "While the decision was made jointly by the festival organizers and film creators, it is clear that external factors played a role in this outcome. We appreciate the continued support from those who believe in the film’s importance and will announce alternative screenings soon."

Apart from this, the Chinese Consulate has also requested that Doc Edge refrain from showing Food Delivery in all future screenings if they want to act in the "interest of [the] public and China-New Zealand relations," according to a report from 1News.

"The documentary... is rife with disinformation and false propaganda, serving as a political tool for [the] Philippines to pursue illegitimate claims in the South China Sea. Its screening would severely mislead the public and send the wrong message internationally," the email from the Chinese Consulate read.

"This documentary disregarded history and facts, and is designed to amplify the Philippines' wrong position on the issue concerning the South China Sea and deliberately distort and hype up the maritime situation," it added.

However, Doc Edge general manager Rachael Penman said that they have refused the request and asserted that Food Delivery was "really important to be seen" as it "brings up a conversation with so many people."

The news outlet reached out to the Philippine Embassy on the matter, but they only said that they are "aware" of the situation.

Meanwhile, Villarama told L!fe that they did not make the film to fight propaganda.

"Food Delivery does not aim to malign a country we have long looked up to as family. It does not spread misinformation. It simply tells the truth through the stories of real people who live and struggle at sea. There’s no need to silence a story like this because there’s no attack here, only honesty," she said, inviting the Chinese government to see the film.

"Perhaps when they see the human faces behind these stories, they might realize there is room for understanding. The sea is vast. There’s enough space for all of us, if only we choose to see each other," she said.

The award-winning director hopes that the audience "remembers that what’s at stake isn’t just territory," but the very existence and well-being of people who depend on their right to fish, sail, and secure food.

PH climbs 10 places in FIVB ranking

PH jumps to No. 46 in FIVB women’s rankings

Jean Malanum

June 14, 2025

Philippine News Agency

MANILA – The Philippines hopes to move up further in the world rankings with a title victory at the 2025 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Volleyball Nations Cup in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Ranked No. 56 in the FIVB rankings before the tournament, the Philippines jumped to No. 46 after beating Chinese Taipei, 25-17, 25-21, 18-25, 15-25, 15-12, at the Dong Anh Arena on Friday night.

The Philippines, whose earlier victories over Mongolia, New Zealand, and Kazakhstan also contributed to its rise in the world rankings, is scheduled to meet defending champion and host Vietnam in the finals at 9 p.m. (Manila time) on Saturday.

“The program is working. The past three years (were) all upward for our national program in all disciplines – volleyball and beach – thanks to the support of our stakeholders," Ramon Suzara, president of both the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) and Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC), said in a press statement on Saturday.

When Suzara and the PNVF took over in 2021, the Alas women’s team was No. 156 in the 222-nation FIVB but jumped to No. 66 in 2023. Last year, the Philippines improved to No. 58 after placing third in the Volleyball Nations Cup at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Bella Belen, who registered a triple-double 14 points, 19 receptions, and 16 digs against Chinese Taipei, is expected to deliver again.

“I’m really happy because we were able to win this game, not just for us but for the Philippines. No words can explain how much we wanted this game and we’re going to prepare hard for us because it’s in Vietnam,” Belen said.

Brazilian coach Jorge Souza De Brito described the victory over the Taiwanese as "a gem of a win."

“We knew that semifinals are always hard and they (Taiwanese) gave us a hard night. But we also knew that we just have one chance to get to the final so I’m proud and very thankful for the girls," said De Brito, who has been supervising the Alas women's program for the past three years.

Jia De Guzman, last year's Best Setter, said Chinese-Taipei tested the team’s character.

“We're very grateful that we surpassed that test of character. Being up two sets, losing two sets, then coming back in the fifth set, that's really hard to do against a team like Chinese Taipei," she said. (PNA)

PHILIPPINES leaps five spots in the 2025 Global Gender Gap Index

PHL jumps to 20th place in Global Gender Gap Index

BusinessWorld
13 June 2025

THE PHILIPPINES jumped five spots in the 2025 Global Gender Gap Index of the World Economic Forum (WEF) to 20th out of 148 countries and retained its position as the highest-ranking Southeast Asian country.

“Compared to the previous year, the economy has climbed five positions in the ranking, with a 0.2-percentage-point increase in its overall gender parity score,” the WEF said in a report released on Thursday.

The Philippines had a score of 78.1%, well above the average global gender gap score of 68.8% and Eastern Asia and the Pacific average of 69.4%. A parity score of 100 indicates full parity, while the gender gap is the distance from full parity.

The country had the highest ranking among Southeast Asian economies, followed by Singapore (47th), Thailand (66th), Vietnam (74th), Timor-Leste (86th), Laos (96th), Indonesia (97th), Cambodia (106th), Brunei (107th) and Malaysia (108th). Myanmar was not included in the study.

The Philippines remained in third spot in the Eastern Asia and the Pacific region, behind New Zealand (5th) and Australia (13th).

The WEF’s Global Gender Gap Index grades four key dimensions: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment.

According to the report, the Philippines scored 79% in the economic participation and opportunity subindex this year, the highest in Eastern Asia and the Pacific and 13th globally.

“In 2025, slight improvements in the scores for wage equality and estimated earned income have brought its economic parity score to 79%, the highest in Eastern Asia and the Pacific this year,” it said.

It achieved full parity when it comes to professional and technical workers.

In the educational attainment subindex, the Philippines dropped to 87th spot from last year’s first place, when it achieved full parity.

This subindex includes literacy rate, enrollment rate in primary, secondary, tertiary education.

“Despite strong performances in educational attainment, the gender parity in education has slightly declined. For the first time, the primary school net enrollment rate for boys surpasses that of girls, resulting in a 1.2-percentage-point drop in the education parity score from previous years of full parity,” WEF said.

The report showed the Philippines had gender parity in the literacy rate, as well as enrollment in secondary education and tertiary education.

For political empowerment, the Philippines improved from 30th place from 34th last year.

This subindex includes women in parliament, ministerial positions, years with female or male head of state.

“The Philippines’s political parity score is buoyed by nearly 16 years of female leadership under Presidents Corazon Aquino and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. This contributes to a 46.2% score in the head-of-state indicator, the second highest in the region,” the WEF said.

Despite this, progress in female representation in parliament is described as “modest” with a score of 38.9%.

“The score for ministerial positions has declined to 21.1% in 2025, down from over 30% in both 2006-2007 and 2023,” it added.

For the health and survival sub-index, the Philippines rose a notch to 85th spot this year.

“The Philippines has faced growing sex imbalances at birth over the past decade. The sex ratio at birth (females to males) has declined from 0.944 in 2016 to 0.926 in 2025,” the WEF said.

Reinielle Matt M. Erece, an economist at Oikonomia Advisory and Research, Inc., said the Philippines’ improved ranking in the gender parity report was mainly driven by gains in wage equality, but noted that the “country still has a long way to go.”

“This is a good indicator of improvements in job opportunities and reduction of gender discrimination,” Mr. Erece said in a Viber message to BusinessWorld on Thursday.

However, he pointed out that female enrollment in primary education remains below 90%. “Thus, improvements in education accessibility and also childhood health are equally important to ensure that students have proper access to education,” he added. 

Mr. Erece also urged the government to improve the quality of education to help reduce dropout rates, especially among female students.

In the report, the WEF said that no economy has yet achieved full gender parity.

Iceland ranked first with a score of 92.6%, keeping the top spot for 16 consecutive years. It is the only economy to have closed more than 90% of its gender gap since 2022.

The rest of the top 10 include Finland, Norway, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Sweden, Moldova, Namibia, Germany and Ireland.

“Despite decades of progress, efforts to achieve gender parity remain constrained, imposing a hidden but heavy tax on global growth and weakening the foundations of economic resilience — expressed in underutilized talent, lost productivity, slower innovation and frayed social cohesion,” WEF said.

“As the global context evolves, challenges and opportunities emerge for economies that seek to close gender gaps and adopt gender parity as a strategy for growth: expanding women’s participation in the workforce, strengthening leadership pipelines, improving skills-to-work transitions, enhancing policy implementation, and ensuring inclusive outcomes in global trade.” — Aubrey Rose A. Inosante

US News & World Report named Palawan as the world’s top island to visit in 2025

Palawan named world’s top island to visit in 2025

Story by Ghio Ong
Philstar Global
27 April 2025

MANILA, Philippines — An online news outlet based in the United States has named Palawan the world’s top island destination for 2025.

In an article published on April 22, US News & World Report ranked the Philippine archipelagic province first in its list of the “World’s Best Islands to Visit for 2025.”

“Here, island hoppers can swim in the exceptionally clear Kayangan Lake in Coron, tour the lagoons of Bacuit Bay in El Nido and kayak through caves on the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River,” the article stated.

It added, “Those who prefer to vacation at a slower pace can lounge on serene beaches overlooking limestone formations or catch a glimpse of marine life on a snorkeling tour.”

Described as one that “entices adventure seekers and beach bums alike,” the report encouraged travelers to plan their accommodations and tours ahead of time, especially if visiting during the dry season from November to May, described as the “best time to visit and most popular.”

Other islands that made it to US News & World Report’s “World’s Best Islands to Visit for 2025” list include Sardinia (Italy), Mauritius, Santorini (Greece), the Faroe Islands, Cyprus, Tahiti, the Whitsunday Islands, South Island (New Zealand), Bora Bora (French Polynesia), the Galápagos Islands, Bermuda, the Azores, Capri, Madagascar, Zanzibar, the Bahamas, Fiji, Bali (Indonesia), St. Lucia, Maui, Corfu, the Maldives and Hvar (Croatia).

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco welcomed the recognition, saying, “This incredible honor affirms what we Filipinos have always known: that Palawan, with its pristine turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, majestic underground rivers and rich biodiversity, is truly a paradise unlike any other.”

PH passport one of the world's most aesthetic

Philippines makes it in list of ‘most aesthetic’ passports in the world

John Patrick Magno Ranara
Philippine Star
26 March 2025

Here's one reason to flex your Philippine passport the next time you travel: It's among the most aesthetic passports in the world.

Hypebeast, a Hong Kong-based company focusing on contemporary culture and lifestyle, included the Philippines in their list of what they regard as some of the most eye-pleasing passports.

In the caption, they highlighted the "iconic Philippine eagle" design on the flip cover of the passport.

"From Norway’s UV-reactive landscapes to Japan’s ukiyo-e art, the Philippines’ iconic Philippine eagle, New Zealand’s sleek black cover, and more—these passports set the bar for design," Hypebeast said.

Other passports that made it to the list include Norway, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Finland, New Zealand, Hungary, and Belgium.

There are three types of Philippine passports issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs. The regular one is colored maroon and is issued to ordinary citizens for general travel purposes.

On the other hand, red passports are given to government officials and employees for official travel, while dark blue ones are designated for the Philippine diplomatic service, members of the Cabinet, and other high-ranking government officials.

As of the latest Henley Passport Index, the Philippines ranked 75th in the world's most powerful passports, slipping two spots from its 73rd slot in 2024.

Filipina won the United Nations’ Women’s International Network for Disaster Risk Reduction Rising Star award

Pinay, 23, wins UN award

Bella Cariaso
Philstar Global
21 October 2024

MANILA, Philippines — A 23-year-old Filipina won the United Nations’ Women’s International Network for Disaster Risk Reduction Rising Star award during the recent Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in Pasay City.

Robyn Mijares, founder and executive director of Youth Uprising, a non-profit organization which provides free environmental and agricultural education to marginalized Filipino youth in public schools across the country, bested five other finalists from other countries.

The Philippines hosted the five-day international disaster event, which serves as the main platform in Asia and the Pacific in monitoring, reviewing and enhancing cooperation for the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015 to 2030, the global blueprint for preventing and reducing disaster risks in the world’s disaster-prone regions.

Other finalists include Nayyab Ali from Pakistan; Nairwita Bandyopadhyay from India, Mediatrich Triani from Indonesia; Jewel Luti Leao Tuitama from New Zealand and Liva Shrestha from Nepal.

“Each story we’ve shared is not just a testament to resilience, it’s a call to action. This award is not only meant to recount their experiences, but to ignite change,” Mijares said in her speech.

She said that her group’s “Oh my, GARDEN: Grow Your Own Food Contest” served as a pioneering effort in response to the urgent food insecurity threat brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the power of grassroots movements in addressing global challenges.

“A simple classroom assignment from a 19-year-old girl grew into a powerful movement to combat hunger – one of the slowest yet most persistent disasters we face on a day to day,” she added.

According to Mijares, the project highlights the critical need to empower the youth through sustainable agriculture, underscoring the importance of self-sufficiency and resilience in overcoming challenges.

Mijares also founded the Grow School Philippines, the first bamboo farm school located in Nasugbu, Batangas which provides free accessible environmental and agricultural programs to public schools across the Philippines.

She received a plaque and $7,500 cash prize.

Philippines wins gold at World Choir Games 2024

Philippines wins gold at World Choir Games 2024

By Sherilyn Untalan
GMA Integrated News
July 21, 2024

A choir from Quezon City has gained recognition on the international scene.

The Quezon City Performing Arts Development Foundation, Inc. Concert Chorus was hailed as the Champion of the World Choir Games Mixed Chamber Choirs Category in the Champions Competition in Auckland, New Zealand, on Friday.

They also clinched the gold medal in the sacred choral music with accompaniment category.

In the last year's edition of the competition, held in Gangneung, South Korea, the group joined the Open Competitions where they won 2 Golden Diplomas in the Mixed Youth and Musica Contemporanea Categories that qualifed them to join this year's Champions Competition.

The World Choir Games is said to be the biggest choral festival and competition in the world. Two hundred fifty choirs from 42 countries competed in the event, which took place in Auckland from July 10-20.

In an interview with GMA News Online, choir member Michael Kenneth Fabian shared his group’s reaction during the awarding ceremony.

“Nu'ng results time na, kinakabahan na kami. Nu'ng in-announce na out of the 6 choirs, kami na lang 'yung hindi pa natawag, doon nag-conclude na sila na kami 'yung matatawag. Sobrang saya na namin lahat. Naka-jacket kaming lahat kasi ang lamig. Pero nu'ng bago tawagin, sabi namin, tanggalin na 'yang mga jacket ninyo, kasi aakyat tayo sa stage, kakanta ng Lupang Hinirang,” he said.

(We felt nervous when the results were announced. When our group was the only one among the seven choirs to not be called, it was concluded that we would win. Everybody was overjoyed. We were in jackets because it was cold. However, we made the decision to remove our jackets before the winner was declared since we were going to perform Lupang Hinirang on stage.)

According to Fabian, it was the first time in more than a decade that the Lupang Hinirang, the national anthem of the Philippines, was performed at an international choral competition.

“We are so happy with what we have achieved. All the challenges and fatigue, all of those concluded with a joyous song, our national anthem. We were able to raise our flag and make our country proud,” he added.

The choir consists of 30 singing individuals, along with five board members, supporting staff, and conductor Nicanor Castro Infante.

They'd spent nearly a year preparing for the competition.

Most of the members are graduates of the children's choir program and range in age from 18 to 27. Fabian said they had difficulty sticking to rehearsal schedules because the majority are still students.

But despite the age differences, he said, “What unites us is our passion for singing and the friendship that has formed.''

Fabian hopes that since Filipinos are well-known for their love of music and have a reputation as talented singers, other local government units will also make investments in and promote the performing arts sector.

“Everywhere you go, performing arts cannot be taken away from the name of the Philippines. We sing because it is part of who we are,” he said.  — VBL/KG/BM, GMA Integrated News

Slovenia, Philippines head to Olympic qualifying semis

Slovenia, Philippines head to Olympic qualifying semis

Manila Times

Story by Associated Press

05 July 2024

Luka Doncic and Slovenia still have Olympic hopes. And so does the Philippines, much to its own surprise.

Doncic had 36 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists, and Slovenia beat New Zealand 104-78 on Thursday to clinch a semifinal spot in the Olympic qualifying tournament at Piraeus, Greece. Slovenia needed to win by at least 10 points to make the semifinals.

Slovenia's opponent on Saturday is Greece, meaning it'll be Doncic and fellow NBA All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo leading their squads — with the winner advancing to Sunday's final with a berth in the Paris Olympics at stake, and the loser eliminated.

Josh Nebo had 20 points and 10 rebounds for Slovenia. Shea Ili led New Zealand with 28 points.

Semifinal Matchups

The matchups for Saturday's semifinals are taking shape.

At Valencia, Spain — Finland vs. Spain; Bahamas vs. Lebanon.

At Piraeus, Greece — Slovenia vs. Greece; Croatia vs. Dominican Republic.

At Riga, Latvia — Brazil vs. Philippines; Cameroon vs. Latvia.

At San Juan, Puerto Rico — Lithuania vs. Italy or Puerto Rico; Italy or Puerto Rico vs. Mexico.

The finals at all four sites are Sunday, and those four winners go to the Paris Olympics.

Georgia 96, Philippines 94

The Philippines lost but advanced to Saturday's semifinals of their tournament in Riga, Latvia, anyway. That created a bit of an issue; the team had flights home scheduled for Friday.

Philippines contributes $3 million to ADF

Philippines contributes $3 million to ADF

Story by Louise Maureen Simeon

Philstar Global 

05 May 2024

TBILISI – The Philippines is providing $3 million (P171 million) to the Asian Development Bank (ADB) fund meant to help poor and vulnerable economies in Asia-Pacific.

In a briefing here on the sidelines of the 57th ADB Annual Meeting, ADB president Masatsugu Asakawa said the bank and several donor countries have agreed to replenish $5 billion for ADB’s Development Fund (ADF).

As such, the Philippines has donated for the second time roughly $3 million to the ADF, which is being replenished every four years.

The Philippines joins Canada, Georgia, Germany, Hong Kong, China, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, New Zealand, Korea and the UK, among others, in this year’s ADF donors.

Finance Undersecretary Joven Balbosa said the Philippines maintained the contribution it released during the pandemic.

Balbosa is representing Finance Secretary Ralph Recto in this year’s ADB Annual Meeting.

“It’s a decent amount because we are also mindful of our fiscal consolidation program and the needs of our country,” Balbosa told reporters.

“But we are an ADB member country, we are a family of nations. It’s just fair that we provide a small share, it’s a balancing act,” he said.

The Philippines used to be a beneficiary of the ADF until it graduated from the status and eventually became eligible for loans.

PH- Australia improved trade relations

PH makes second mango shipment to Australia

Story by Janine Alexis Miguel
Manila Times
08 April 2024

THE Philippines has sent a second shipment of mangoes to Australia, which will help increase the country's bilateral trade with that country, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

In a statement over the weekend, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said the latest mango shipment will help increase the country's bilateral trade with Australia, which reached $4.1 billion in 2023, or 20 percent higher from the previous year's $3.4 billion.

"The continued growth in our bilateral trade underscores the vast potential for our products in the Australian market. The successful export of our mangoes exemplifies the significant strides we're making in facilitating agricultural trade, which is pivotal for our economic agenda," he said.

Moreover, Pascual highlighted the significance of key policy instruments such as the Second Protocol of the Asean-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA), ratified by the Philippines on Feb. 14, 2024, in further optimizing the trade and investment relationship between the two countries.

Asean is the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

"We would like to provide enhanced market access for our stakeholders/exporters to as many countries as possible, even the non-traditional partners. For this year, we are working on an FTA with EU (European Union), UAE (United Arab Emirates), and Canada under the Asean-Canada FTA negotiation," the trade chief said.

The logistics firm FastboxPH, which facilitated the mango delivery, has noted a surge in demand for the tropical fruit in Australia, attributing it to the quality and exceptional taste of Philippine mangoes.

"The overwhelmingly positive response to our initial shipment last year has paved the way for a triumphant return of Philippine mangoes to Australian tables this April," FastboxPH Managing Director Miguel Ripol said.

FastboxPH is positioned to expand its reach across the country and establish partnerships with more retailers and distributors nationwide to ensure wider availability of Philippine mangoes to Australian consumers.

Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen de la Vega emphasized the importance of the second mango shipment under the strategic partnership forged in September 2023 between the two countries.

"The Philippines and Australia share a strong commitment to fostering trade ties, and the arrival of our mangoes signifies a delightful milestone in our partnership, especially as we celebrate Filipino Food Month in April," she said.

The Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Sydney (PTIC-Sydney), an agency under the DTI, spearheads the effort to broaden the market for high-quality Philippine agricultural goods, specifically mangoes. Through strategic measures like trade expos and consultations, PTIC-Sydney is actively striving to boost the global presence of Philippine products.

"With the DTI spearheading efforts and the unwavering dedication of all involved parties, the future of Philippine mango exports to Australia looks brighter than ever, promising mutual prosperity for both nations," the DTI said.