Context Dispatch
Japan, Philippines celebrate 60 years of volunteer diplomacy
The Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Philippines Office, hosted a commemorative event at the Ambassador’s residence to mark the 60th anniversary of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV). The celebration highlighted the enduring friendship between Japan and the Philippines, grounded in shared development goals and deepening people-to-people ties through volunteerism.
DPWH officials ordered to resign in massive clean-up drive
Newly appointed Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered all Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials—from undersecretaries to district engineers—to submit courtesy resignations, following a directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. aimed at cleaning up the agency amid reports of corruption and ghost projects.
Leon Gallery to auction rare Rolex linked to Marcos-era group
On September 13, coinciding with the 68th birthday of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Leon Gallery in Makati City will stage its much-anticipated “Magnificent...
President Marcos accepts Bonoan resignation as DPWH chief
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has accepted the resignation of Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, effective Monday, September 1, amid ongoing controversy over flood control projects.
Smart offers BNPL options via Billease
Smart Communications, Inc. has partnered with Billease, a leading Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) platform in the Philippines, to offer more flexible and affordable payment options for its customers. The collaboration aims to support greater financial and digital inclusion by enabling Smart, TNT, and Smart Bro Home WiFi users to access services through easy installment plans.
