Context.ph

The Department of Transportation has approved 12 major rail projects valued at over $30 billion, marking a significant shift after decades of slow progress in the country's transit sector. Undersecretary for Railways Timothy John Batan reported that seven of these major projects are currently under construction, one is finished, and six are slated to open within the next seven years. In a push for environmental sustainability, all 12 networks are designed as fully electric railway systems.

Meralco clarified that customers with pending billing disputes will not have their power cut, and do not need to pay the contested amount while their cases are being reviewed. The announcement follows recent social media concerns over billing issues. The firm also noted that the Energy Regulatory Commission’s nationwide suspension on disconnections for all unpaid bills from May to July 2026 remains in effect. Meralco urged customers to raise questions through official channels, adding that all concerns are being assessed and resolved promptly.

Globe has maintained its top position in the Philippine mobile market, boosted by ongoing investments in network quality, customer experience and new technologies.

Security Bank Corporation has served as the sole lender for the 17.4 MW Solana Solar Beta solar power facility in Hermosa, Bataan. Developed by SSBI under CN Green Roof Asia, the project will generate around 35.5 gigawatt-hours of clean electricity yearly, supplying 10 MW under a 20-year deal with Peninsula Electric Cooperative (PENELCO).

Scientists have found that the humble bitaog tree—also known as Palo Maria, Tamanu Tree, Dangkalan, or Alexandrian laurel—that are common along Philippine coastlines and often overlooked, produces an oil rich in compounds prized by the skincare industry.