President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remains the country’s most trusted government official, according to the latest Tugon ng Masa (TNM) survey conducted by OCTA Research.

“The President received a trust rating of 60% and a performance rating of 59%,” the report indicated in the April 2025 TNM nationwide survey of OCTA.

Even after the same survey indicated a decline in the President’s performance rating, the OCTA report said, “It is not substantial.”

“The majority of Filipino people continue to trust and support the President’s performance,” the report said. “The consistent 60% trust rating is evidence of the public’s continued confidence.”

“Most adult Filipinos continue to express trust and approval for President Marcos Jr. based on the April 2025 TNM nationwide survey,” the OCTA survey report highlighted.

In a statement, Malacañang said despite political controversies and criticisms, Filipinos remain focused on the administration’s bigger achievements and that public trust has proven resilient despite attempts to sow doubt on the Marcos administration.

Analysts noted that despite the ever-present political noise and challenges to the administration, most Filipinos still see President Marcos as a steady and reliable leader.

“Nevertheless, positive or negative, it will not stop the President from working and fulfilling his goals for all Filipinos. He will never be distracted by the ratings, though they will all be considered for the betterment of the country,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said. | PND

The National Food Authority (NFA) has beefed up its rice buffer stock following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify palay procurement to support farmers and ensure the country’s staple supply is sufficient.

During the press briefing on Monday, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro mentioned that the NFA has a total rice inventory of 10.1 million bags of palay and 1.2 million bags of milled rice.

Castro pointed out that this figure is considered the highest since 2020 and is sufficient to cover the country’s 10-day rice consumption.

“Ayon kay NFA Administrator Larry Lacson, may natitirang 12 bilyong piso para sa patuloy na pagbili ng palay ngayong summer harvest,” Castro said.

The Palace Press Officer said the NFA is committed to continuously buying rice, benefiting farmers, and providing more affordable rice to the public.

“Dagdag pa ng NFA, ang tuluy-tuloy na pagbili ng palay ay hindi lamang para sa mga magsasaka, kung hindi para rin sa mga pagbibigay ng mas abot-kayang bigas sa mamamayan,” she added.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced last week the launch of the PhP20/kilo rice program, which will provide an affordable staple to millions of needy families.

The initiative will also help free up space in NFA warehouses, allowing the agency to purchase more palay from local farmers at higher prices.

Initially expected to run only until December 2025, the DA is now reviewing and fine-tuning the plan following the directive of President Marcos to expand the initiative nationwide and sustain it through 2028. | PND

The Philippine government on Monday refuted reports by Chinese state media claiming that the China Coast Guard had taken control of Sandy Cay near Pag-Asa Island, calling them inaccurate and misleading.

In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro cited information from National Security Council (NSC) Assistant Director General (ADG) Jonathan Malaya that the Inter-Agency Maritime Operation (IAMO) recently conducted a routine visit to Sandy Cay, Pag-asa Cay 2 in particular, and the surrounding waters of Cay 1 and Cay 3.

She said the IAMO team completed the mission without incident, clearly contradicting any narrative that Sandy Cay was seized. Sandy Cay is a maritime feature of a low bank or reef of coral, rock, and sand located in the Spratly Islands near Pag-Asa Island in the Spratlys.

“Nakausap po natin si ADG Jonathan Malaya. Ayon po sa kanya, kahapon lamang po, ang inter-agency maritime operation ay nagsagawa ng pagbisita—isang routine and lawful exercise—dito po sa maritime domain natin,” Castro said.

During the briefing, Castro reaffirmed the Marcos administration’s unwavering commitment to defending the country’s maritime rights and territorial integrity.

“Asahan po natin ang walang alinlangang dedikasyon ng Pangulong Marcos na ipaglaban ang ating karapatan sa ating teritoryo, lalo na sa West Philippine Sea,” Castro said.

“Tuloy-tuloy pa rin po ang pagprotekta sa lahat ng karapatan ng bansa na naaayon sa international law, ngunit may paniniguro na ito ay para sa kapayapaan at katatagan,” she said.

The Palace assured the public that the Philippines will continue to assert and defend its sovereign rights in accordance with international law. | PND

On the orders of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Philippine Consulate has provided hotlines for the families and relatives of the victims of the car-ramming incident at a Lapu-lapu festival in Canada to coordinate and seek assistance.

In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro disclosed the hotlines as the following: Migrant Workers’ Office Hotline: + 1 604 767 33 54; Vancouver PCG’s Assistance-to-Nationals Hotlines: +1 604 653 5858; and Vancouver Police Department Victim Support: +1 800 563 0808.

“At ang Philippine Consulate General po in Vancouver ay nag-isyu na po ng maaga ng advisory. Nagbigay po ng hotlines para po sa biktima. Iyong pamilya po ng mga biktima ay maaari po kaagad maka-connect o makakontak po sa ating Philippine Consulate General,” she said.

Castro said Philippine Consulate personnel are closely coordinating with the Vancouver Police Department for incident updates.

President Marcos Jr. instructed Philippine authorities to immediately assist Filipinos affected by the car-ramming incident at the annual Lapu Lapu festival, which celebrates Filipino culture.

“Dahil ito po ay kapwa Filipino, minadali po kaagad na matulungan. Ibigay po ang lahat ng maaaring maitulong … sa mga Filipino na nadamay po dito sa trahedya po sa Vancouver,” Castro said regarding President Marcos’ initial reaction to the tragedy.

“At ang Philippine Consulate General po in Vancouver ay nag-isyu na po ng maaga ng advisory. Nagbigay po ng hotlines para po sa biktima. Iyong pamilya po ng mga biktima ay maaari po kaagad maka-connect o makakontak po sa ating Philippine Consulate General,” she said.

As of April 27, 2025, the Vancouver Police Department reported that 11 people died while several others were seriously hurt, with the youngest victim aged five years old and the oldest fatality at 65 years old.

Police identified the suspect as 30-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo, who drove his black SUV into the crowd during the Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party celebration held at E 41st and Fraser Street in Vancouver.

Lo has been charged with multiple murders following the incident. He has a known history of mental illness, according to the police, in dismissing initial reports that the incident was an act of terrorism. | PND

Despite a program facilitating the entry into the country of digital nomads, or people who use technology to work remotely, the government would ensure strict screening of Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) applications to prevent misuse and abuse of the visa privilege.

Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro assured that measures are in place to prevent foreign workers, particularly those linked to the shuttered Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), from circumventing or misusing their visa.

“There will be security features (in assessing DNV applications) in order to protect our country from any scammers or any violations of the law,” Castro told a press briefing in Malacañang on Monday.

A digital nomad works remotely using technology, allowing them to travel or live in various locations, often outside their home country. They rely on a stable internet connection to perform their job.

“We will be monitoring (the implementation of the DNV), unlike in the POGOs before. We will be securing the processes,” Castro said.

Castro emphasized that the influx of foreign workers with DNVs is expected to drive up tourist arrivals, ultimately boosting the country’s revenue.

“And it will definitely benefit the country and also the Filipino people,” she said.

Castro said the government plans to improve the country’s ports as the number of visiting tourists is expected to increase.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued Executive Order No. 86, which established a legal framework to facilitate the entry of digital nomads to further boost the country’s tourism and economy. | PND

The Philippine strategy to spotlight emerging tourist destinations is paying off, as three Central Luzon sites earned nominations at the prestigious World Travel Awards, Malacanang announced on Monday.

In a Malacañang press briefing on Monday, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the nominations are a testament to the success of the National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028.

“Ang mga nominasyong ito ay patunay na epektibo ang direksyon ng National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028, na layuning paunlarin hindi lamang ang mga kilalang destinasyon, kundi pati na rin ang mga bagong lugar na sumasalamin sa tunay na ganda ng Pilipinas,” Castro said.

The three latest nominations — Aurora Province, the City of San Fernando in Pampanga, and the Clark Freeport Zone — bring the Philippines’ total number of World Travel Awards (WTA) citations to 10.

Castro said the country’s growing list of international recognitions reflects its strengthened tourism initiatives.

“Ang mga parangal na ito ay patunay ng lakas at lawak ng ating turismo, mula sa kalikasan, kultura, hanggang world-class events,” Castro said.

Castro recognized the success of these emerging destinations in showcasing Philippine culture, natural beauty, and world-class event management.

Aurora Province, known for its pristine beaches and eco-tourism sites, is nominated as Asia’s Leading Regional Nature Destination.

San Fernando, Pampanga—the Christmas Capital of the Philippines—is in the running for Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination.

On the other hand, the Clark Freeport Zone, a fast-rising business hub in Central Luzon, has been nominated as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination.

Established in 1993, the WTA aims to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence in all key travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors.

The WTA runs a comprehensive program across various awards developed to recognize the industry’s most vital sectors and product offerings.

“Tunay ngang sa bawat baybayin, pista, at pagpupulong, ang ganda ng Pilipinas ay kinikilala sa buong mundo,” Castro said. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. conveyed his deep sorrow over the tragic events that unfolded during the Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“I am completely shattered to hear about the terrible incident during a Lapu Lapu Day Block Party in Vancouver, BC, Canada,” President Marcos said in a public statement on Sunday.

President Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, on behalf of the Philippine government and the Filipino people, extend their heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families.

“Liza and I would like to express our deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and the strong and thriving Filipino community in Canada,” the President said.

President Marcos also assured the public that the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver is in close coordination with the Canadian authorities for the update of the investigation into the incident. The Consulate likewise provides assistance and support to the victims and their families.

“We are one with the families of the victims and the Filipino community in Vancouver during this difficult time,” the President added.

The Marcos administration stands in solidarity with all affected by this tragedy and reaffirms its commitment to support Filipinos abroad in times of grief and adversity. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday dedicated an evening of music and celebration to honor the nation’s “modern-day heroes” — the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) — during the latest edition of Konsyerto sa Palasyo.

In a video message played during the concert, President Marcos expressed the government’s profound gratitude and unwavering support for OFWs, recognizing their invaluable contributions to their families, communities, and the Philippines as a whole.

“Mga minamahal kong kababayan na overseas Filipino workers, ang gabing ito ay handog namin sa inyo,” the President said.

President Marcos said he hopes that the evening’s celebration would bring the OFWs joy and a moment of rest, while reminding everyone of the nation’s collective journey toward a brighter future.

“Ngayong gabi, nawa’y ang alay namin na musika at saya ay makapagbigay sa inyo ng ligaya at kaunting pahinga. Magsilbi rin nawa ito bilang isang paalala na bilang magkakaisang lahi, sama-sama tayong naglalakbay tungo sa isang mas progresibo at mas maliwanag na Bagong Pilipinas.”

President Marcos described the event as a symbol of the nation’s “taos-pusong pasasalamat at pagsaludo” to all the OFWs for their sacrifices and dedication. The President also recognized their crucial role in driving the country’s ongoing growth and prosperity.

“Isa kayo sa mga dahilan sa pag-unlad ng ating bayan. Patuloy ninyong ipinapamana sa mundo ang likas na galing, tatag, at sipag ng lahing Pilipino,” the President said.

The Chief Executive also shared that he often receives high praises for Filipino workers during his travels abroad—a recognition that makes him “truly proud to be a Filipino.”

“Kayo ang patunay na ang mga Pilipino ay kayang-kayang makipagsabayan sa ibang lahi saan mang sulok ng mundo, dahil sa inyong disiplina, tapang, at malasakit sa bayan,” the President said.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, the President assured OFWs and their families of the government’s continued support and protection.

“Makakaasa kayo na laging nandidito ang pamahalaan upang protektahan, alagaan, at itaguyod ang kapakanan ninyo at ng mga pamilya ninyo,” the President said. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos are set to arrive tomorrow (Monday) after attending Pope Francis’s funeral on Saturday, which he described as “a gesture of deep respect.”

“I attended the funeral of Pope Francis as a gesture of deep respect — from one of the world’s most faithful nations, to a Pope who touched the hearts of millions,” the President said in a statement.

President Marcos said, “I represented not just the Philippine government, but the everyday Filipino — prayerful, hopeful, and grateful — who would have wanted to be there to say thank you to a shepherd who made them feel seen.”

The Funeral Mass for Pope Francis, held Saturday at St. Peter’s Square, drew world leaders, dignitaries, and thousands of Catholic faithful from around the globe. The solemn rites marked the end of an era for a pontiff who championed the poor and the marginalized.

The rites reflected the Pope’s lifelong commitment to humility, service, and social justice.

“This is a moment of shared faith, national pride, and quiet tribute from the Filipino people to a Pope who walked with the humble and gave voice to the unseen,” Marcos added.

The President also shared messages of gratitude online, using the hashtags #ThankYouPopeFrancis, #ForeverInOurHearts, #PaalamLoloKiko, #GratitudeAndFaith, and #RestInPeace. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos joined world leaders and Catholic faithful on Saturday to pay their final respects to Pope Francis as the Funeral Mass began at St. Peter’s Square.

The Mass reflected Pope Francis’ lifelong dedication to humility, service, and social justice, drawing worldwide dignitaries, pilgrims, and ordinary believers.

Earlier, Malacañang announced that the First Couple left for the Vatican on Thursday, April 24, 2025, to represent the Filipino people at the funeral.

In a statement, the Palace said the President and the First Lady would convey the nation’s prayers and condolences. They remember the Pope for his compassion, concern for the poor, and historic 2015 visit to the Philippines.

The Philippines, the largest Catholic country in Asia, joins the global Catholic community in mourning and honoring Pope Francis’s life and legacy. | PND