Batangas State University engineering students captures bronze in international robotics competition

Filipino students score another podium finish in int'l space robotics contest

GMA News 
25 June 2026

A team of aerospace engineering students from Batangas State University (BatStateU) has once again brought pride to the Philippines after securing third place in an international space robotics competition that challenged participants to program a robot aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) announced Thursday that Team Inflection Point placed third in the final round of the sixth Kibo Robot Programming Challenge (Kibo-RPC), an international competition organized by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in cooperation with the United States’ National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

The achievement marks the team’s second straight podium finish in the competition after placing second in 2024, when they became the first Philippine team to participate in and win at the Kibo-RPC.

Composed of third-year aerospace engineering students Howell Dela Cruz, John Royeth Samson, Ahron Martinez, Benedict Lontok, Andrew Cabile, and Amer Panganiban, Team Inflection Point represented the Philippines after emerging as the country’s top-performing team during the preliminary round, where they bested 26 other local entries.

During the finals, the students’ computer program commanded NASA’s Astrobee, a free-flying robot operating inside the Japanese “Kibo” module aboard the ISS. Teams from across the Asia-Pacific region were evaluated based on image recognition accuracy, mission completion, and speed.

According to PhilSA, the competition drew 738 teams from 37 countries and regions, including 25 participating through the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs’ international slot.

NASA astronaut Christopher Williams executed the teams’ programs aboard the ISS during the final round held on February 28, 2026. Team Inflection Point successfully completed four of the five assigned tasks and scored 216.8 points out of a possible 300.

Their score was just 1.6 points behind second-place finisher Team Automen of Malaysia, which scored 218.4 points. Team iTron of Taiwan topped the competition with 269.9 points.

PhilSA said one of the new features introduced this year was the “Oasis Zone,” which offered bonus points but also imposed time penalties depending on the route chosen, requiring teams to balance speed with strategy.

The Kibo-RPC is an educational program that trains students to develop software for robots operating in space. Participants program Astrobee to perform missions inside the ISS, helping them develop skills in robotics, programming, and engineering while simulating the challenges of working in a microgravity environment. Organizers said the challenge also aims to prepare the next generation of engineers who could contribute to future space missions and robotic operations.

As the Philippine member of the Kibo-ABC program, PhilSA spearheaded the local selection process for this year’s competition. The agency said the seventh Kibo Robot Programming Challenge is scheduled to open in July 2026. — Sherylin Untalan/BM, GMA News

Philippines is the next big thing in global supply chain

Philippines, Thailand primed as next supply chain ‘rising stars’

BusinessWorld
June 25, 2026 

Thailand, the Philippines and Argentina are among a group of promising yet underutilized economies primed for an increasing role in supply chains, according to a new analysis of global trade trends.

These and other countries in Southeast Asia and Latin America stand to benefit from diversification as companies look beyond cost and efficiency to build resilience, Verisk Maplecroft, a UK-based risk intelligence firm, said in a report released Thursday.

A third of the world’s busiest ports and airports are vulnerable to disruption from conflicts, environmental risk and domestic security threats, the firm warned. At a time when trade resilience has deteriorated in more than 150 countries — accounting for 90% of global trade — there’s opportunity for “rising stars,” the report argued.

The shuttering of the Strait of Hormuz during the US-Israel conflict with Iran created “near-term headwinds” for both Thailand and the Philippines, Verisk Maplecroft said. Still, its data indicate that those “willing to take a longer-term view will find these markets worth their attention.”

Market openness, regulatory strengths and labor rights in each country are the three main factors the firm analyzes.

The supply chain potential in the Philippines comes despite a bout of political turmoil in the past year, including a sprawling scandal over corruption in contracts for flood mitigation projects that’s seen politicians issued with arrest warrants.

With a young, English-speaking labor force, the Philippines offers significant potential for industrial services and outsourcing, she said. “If you are confident in your company’s supply chain management systems to monitor and manage corruption risk, that doesn’t have to be a complete barrier,” Schwartz said.

THAILAND, ARGENTINA

Risks for Thailand, meantime, have decreased when compared with regional peers during the past five years, the firm said in its report. Thailand’s electronics sector is benefiting from AI investment, and the country is “well positioned to host higher-value supply chain links,” Verisk Maplecroft said. That’s even with an aging workforce and higher-cost labor compared with others in the region, it said.

“The ingredients are really good for a lot of the industries that are seeking supply chain diversification opportunities,” Schwartz said.

For Argentina, both the European Union-Mercosur trade accord and an agreement with US on reciprocal trade and investment could drive a shift on critical minerals, energy and industrial exports.

That graft scandal dented foreign investment in the Philippines last year and has been a factor in the government cutting its economic growth forecast for this year. The Senate, meantime, has been consumed by infighting related to a rift between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his deputy, Sara Duterte, who faces an impeachment trial in July.

“Things are still happening behind the scenes, including efforts to attract investment and reduce regulatory burdens on businesses — though the results of these efforts have yet to fully emerge,” according to Laura Schwartz, senior Asia analyst at Verisk Maplecroft.

“Sometimes political chaos completely stops policymaking, and sometimes it happens alongside policymaking.”

Chile and Uruguay are also on the regional list, with the latter offering the region’s strongest risk-adjusted operating profile.

“Latin America still trails Southeast Asia as a scaled manufacturing platform, but Western efforts to reduce exposure to China are creating new supply-chain contenders,” according to the report.

The report also points to Vietnam, Malaysia, Mexico and Brazil as already benefiting from the reduction in bilateral trade between the US and China. Those four have their advantages as supply hubs, the report said, “but according to our data, risks to multinational supply chains in all of these jurisdictions are increasing.” — Bloomberg

Philippines climbs four places in a global competitiveness ranking 2026

PH climbs four spots in competitiveness list

Niña Myka Pauline Arceo
The Manila Times

19 June 2026

THE Philippines has gained four places in a global competitiveness ranking, reflecting improved perceptions of the country’s ability to foster a business-friendly environment despite lingering concerns over supply chain disruptions and exchange-rate volatility.

The country ranked 47th out of 70 economies this year, up from 51st in 2025, according to the latest World Competitiveness Yearbook released by the Switzerland-based International Institute for Management Development (IMD).

The improvement allowed the Philippines to retain its position as the 10th most competitive economy among countries with gross domestic product (GDP) per capita below $20,000.

The annual ranking assesses economies based on their capacity to create and maintain an environment that sustains the competitiveness of enterprises. It evaluates countries using four broad factors: economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency, and infrastructure.

“I’ve seen improvements in institutional quality of the country based both on government and business efficiency,” World Competitiveness Center Director Arturo Bris told The Manila Times late on Wednesday.

“The country’s performance in the economic performance factor is the one that marks the country’s performance in the overall ranking,” he added.

Singapore returned to the top of the competitiveness rankings in 2026 after placing second last year, helped by a sharp improvement in business efficiency that propelled it to first place globally.

Hong Kong climbed to second place, extending its steady rise over the past three years and reinforcing the strong presence of Asian economies at the top of the list.

Switzerland slipped to third from first in 2025 after a decline in economic performance, one of the ranking’s four key factors, falling 24 spots to 37th.

Meanwhile, Taiwan rose two places to fourth, continuing its upward trend from eighth in 2024 and sixth in 2025. The United Arab Emirates remained in fifth place.

The Philippines, meanwhile, remained 13th out of 15 economies in Asia-Pacific region.

The country’s improved standing came against the backdrop of an increasingly fragmented global economy marked by geopolitical tensions, supply chain realignments and heightened uncertainty.

The IMD said competitiveness in today’s environment extends beyond traditional indicators such as market size, low labor costs and growth prospects.

Instead, institutional credibility, regulatory predictability and governments’ ability to respond to shocks have become increasingly important determinants of investor confidence.

“I think the good news for the Philippines is that institutional quality keeps on improving, that tends to be in the long term the best predictor of the competitiveness ranking,” Bris said.

“Because of the turmoil in the world economy last year and the stability created by tariffs and other geopolitical events, the country has suffered, in which I would say it’s only a temporary event,” he added.

But despite the country’s improved ranking, Filipino executives continued to identify several risks that could undermine confidence and future competitiveness gains.

About 67.4 percent of the executives surveyed cited supply chain disruptions as a major factor affecting business confidence. Meanwhile, 69.8 percent pointed to exchange-rate volatility as a significant concern, underscoring the vulnerability of businesses to external shocks and fluctuations in global financial markets.

The IMD identified several challenges the Philippines needed to address this year, including sustaining economic growth while keeping inflation in check amid external shocks.

It also stressed the need to improve government efficiency and reduce corruption risks, ensure quick responses to energy and food supply disruptions, address issues affecting access to and the quality of basic education and encourage investments in renewable energy and climate resilience.

The Philippines named as the world’s No. 1 retirement destination for 2026 by the Expatriate Group

PH named world No. 1 retirement destination

Joyce Ann L. Rocamora
Cebu Daily News
19 June 2026

MANILA – The Philippines was named as the world’s No. 1 retirement destination for 2026 by the Expatriate Group, an addition to its list of accolades affirming its appeal as a destination for expats.

The country ranked first as the best country to retire to in 2026, scoring 78 out of 100, in the group’s latest Retirement Abroad Index.

The index ranks the world’s “most retiree-friendly” countries based on healthcare quality, visa accessibility, health insurance requirements, cost of living, and expat community and integration.

The Expatriate Group said the Philippines performed strongly for affordability and visa accessibility, which was further elevated by its “strong private healthcare sector” that “offers reassurance for retirees.”

“Affordability remains one of the country’s biggest strengths. A retired couple can typically live comfortably on around £750 – £1,000 per month, although costs are generally higher in Manila than in the smaller cities and coastal communities,” it said.

“Combined with a well-established expat population across Manila, Cebu, and popular island destinations, this makes the transition to life overseas much easier than in many competing retirement destinations.”

Thailand followed in second place with a score of 77, driven by the joint-highest healthcare score in the index. Colombia took third place with a score of 73, combining low living costs with one of the most accessible retirement visa pathways.

The Philippines’ new recognition follows its recent citation as the Best Retirement Destination in Asia at the 2025 TripZilla Excellence Awards.

Special Resident Retiree’s Visa

The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Thursday welcomed the ranking and vowed to continue strengthening the country’s Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV), the flagship initiative of the Philippine Retirement Agency (PRA) for qualified foreign nationals looking to retire in the Philippines.

“Under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to continuously improve the quality of tourism services and position the Philippines as a premier destination for visitors across all age segments, this recognition affirms the progress we are making in creating a more welcoming, accessible, and enjoyable experience for travelers and retirees alike,” Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said.

Beyond natural attractions

“Beyond our natural attractions, the Philippines offers warm hospitality, affordable living, quality services, and vibrant communities that allow people to live, travel, and thrive. We will continue working with the Philippine Retirement Authority and our stakeholders to further strengthen the country’s competitiveness as a world-class retirement and tourism destination.”

PRA General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Bob Zozobrado, meanwhile, described the recognition as a reaffirmation of the country’s “growing reputation as a premier choice for retirees seeking a fulfilling and comfortable lifestyle abroad.”

“We remain committed to enhancing the retirement experience for foreign nationals and showcasing the many advantages that make the Philippines truly a home away from home,” he said.

The Expatriate Group is a leading provider of international health insurance serving expatriates and retirees across more than 180 countries. (PNA)

Filipina chef Rhoda Magbitang wins Top Chef season 23

Filipina chef Rhoda Magbitang wins Top Chef season 23

GMA Lifestyle
11 June 2026

Filipina chef Rhoda Magbitang strengthened the country's place on the map after she clinched the title of the American television series Top Chef Season 23.

Rhoda wowed the editor-in-chief of Food & Wine magazine, Hunter Lewis, chefs Eric Ferguson, Camari Mick, and Nok Suntaranon, and Top Chef alums Sara Bradley, Joe Flamm, and Stephanie Izard with a four-course meal.

The Filipina chef prepared sweet potato and uni, lugaw, and a grilled eggplant omelet with lap cheong XO and pork belly. She also served caldereta braised in liver instead of dessert to honor her father.

“This is a toast to my dad— caldereta braised in liver and vegetables,” Rhoda told the judges.

She added, “After we talked about all the courses being a 'toast to something,' it was important for me to honor my parents.”

After an excruciating showdown of grit and talent in the kitchen, Rhoda ultimately won against Sherry Cardoso and Laurence Louie.

According to reports, Rhoda will take home $250,000 (P15,366,125.00), a feature in Food & Wine magazine, an appearance at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, Colo., headline her own exclusive dinner at the historic James Beard House in New York, and have the opportunity to present at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards in Chicago.

Alex Eala wins Birmingham Open title

Alex Eala wins Birmingham Open title, ends Czech curse

Story by Mark Giongco 
Inquirer.net
08 June 2026

MANILA, Philippines–Alex Eala raised her first trophy of the season and lifted a curse that has haunted her for the past several years.

Eala rallied past up-and-coming Czech Nikola Bartunkova, 5-7, 6-3, 7-5, to win the WTA 125 Birmingham Open on Sunday night (Manila time).

The 21-year-old Eala won her second WTA crown after ruling the Guadalajara 125 Open in Mexico last September.

Eala’s victory also marked her first against a Czech in 14 tries since turning pro in 2020.

“I’m so honored to lift this trophy today. Lifting this trophy only makes me more motivated to keep working,” said Eala.

“It’s one of those days where I hope we can both win. It’s an incredible match.”

The 21-year-old Eala joined the likes of former Grand Slam champions and world number ones in Maria Sharapova, Ashleigh Barty, and Angelique Kerber to name a few, who all won the Birmingham Classic at some point in their celebrated careers.

PH wins its first crown for Man of the World

Philippine bet Oliver Eugen Kretz wins Man of the World 2026

Oliver Eugen Kretz becomes first Filipino to win Man of the World title.

Erwin Santiago
Philippine Entertainment Portal
07 June 2026

Philippine representative Oliver Eugen Kretz was crowned Man of the World 2026 at the grand coronation held at the Palacio de Manila in Manila, Philippines, on Saturday night, June 6, 2026.

The 25-year-old Filipino-German beat out 27 other contestants in the 8th edition of the male beauty pageant.

The first runner-up in Man of the World 2026 is Abel Adrian Diaz of Ecuador.

Second runner-up si Fidel Arellano ng Chile.

Third runner-up si Luis Arturo Jauregui ng Mexico.

Afiq Naufal of Malaysia was fourth runner-up.

OLIVER EUGEN KRETZ A FRONTRUNNER

Even before the grand coronation of Man of the World 2026, Kretz was considered the frontrunner.

He won three special awards throughout the pageant: Best in Swimwear, Best in Beachwear, and Media's Choice.

Crowning Kretz was 2025 Man of the World Juul Missiaen of Spain.