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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will meet with top U.S. business executives in Washington, D.C. on Monday, July 21, as part of his three-day official visit aimed at deepening trade and security partnership between the Philippines and the United States.
In an interview with Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez on Sunday, he said President Marcos is expected to meet with leaders from the semiconductor industry, a vital sector for both nations. The industry constitutes 56.6 percent of the Philippines’ total exports. The country is also host to over 500 electronics and semiconductor firms, including major US companies.
“Well, generally he’ll be talking to the semiconductor industry which is very important for us… I think the president of the Semiconductor Association will be meeting with the President,” Romualdez said during an interview with the Philippine media delegation at the Philippine Embassy.
The Ambassador stressed that the semiconductor sector is one of the Philippines’ biggest industries with strong economic ties with the United States.
The President will also meet with business leaders from the healthcare and infrastructure sectors—specifically companies with existing operations in the Philippines or those seeking to expand their businesses in the country. The Philippines, with its highly-trained healthcare professionals, can supply US needs relating to healthcare information management services. US companies may also explore infrastructure investment opportunities in the Philippines, particularly in priority areas.
Romualdez noted that these business engagements are a key component of the President’s visit.
President Marcos is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump and other top officials such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. | PND
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RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Sa isang makasaysayang pagkakataon, personal na binisita ni First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos ang Bahay Kalinga na pansamantalang tinutuluyan sa Riyadh ng mga distressed Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
Pinakinggan ng Unang Ginang ang mga kuwento ng buhay ng mga distressed OFW – mula sa hirap, tatag ng loob, at kanilang pag-asa na magiging maayos ang buhay nila.
Ang pagbisita ang unang pagkakataon na ang isang First Lady ay tumungo sa Bahay Kalinga, ang pansamantalang tirahan na ibinigay ng gobyerno para sa mga OFW na naghihintay ng repatriation mula sa Saudi Arabia.
Ang First Lady ay naglaan ng panahon at nakinig sa mga personal na kwento ng mga OFW, puno ng sakripisyo at pag-asa.
Ang mga OFWs ang naglahad ang kwento ng kahirapan, pagpupunyagi, pagsasakripisyo para sa pamilya at pag-asa para sa magandang kinabukasan.
Naging maramdamin ang sandali nang ipahayag ni First Lady na inaasikaso ng gobyerno para sila ay maaaring makabalik ng Pilipinas.
Nagpalakpakan, umiyak, at nagyakapan ang mga babaeng OFWs.
Alinsunod sa utos ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., pinangasiwaan ng Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), at Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) ang ligtas na pag-uwi ng 43 distressed OFW at walong menor de edad nilang dependent, kabilang ang ilang nangangailangan ng atensyong medikal.
Bawat repatriate ay nakatanggap ng financial at reintegration assistance na PhP50,000 mula sa DMW, PhP10,000 mula sa “OWWA plus Balik Pinas” Balik Hanapbuhay aid, PhP10,000 mula sa DSWD, at PhP60,000 mula sa Office of the President — kasama ang travel luggage at essentials mula sa First Lady.
Nagbigay din ang OWWA ng suporta sa transportasyon at pansamantalang tirahan para sa mga OFW na babalik sa Visayas at Mindanao.
Si Ana M. Dimalen, isa sa mga OFWs, ay nagbahagi ng kanyang pasasalamat sa pagdating sa Maynila:
“Pumunta po si FL sa shelter. Tuwang-tuwa po kami kasi nakita po namin siya ng personal at nagpapasalamat kami kay PBBM at natulungan nila kaming makauwi sa Pilipinas. Maraming salamat po.”
Bumisita din ang First Lady sa “Bagong Bayani ng Mundo Serbisyo Caravan,” kung saan nakilala niya ang mga OFW na nag-a-avail ng mga serbisyo mula sa mga frontline agencies.
Ito ang unang pagkakataon na nagsama-sama sa isang caravan ang napakaraming ahensya ng gobyerno — kabilang ang DMW, OWWA, PhilHealth, SSS, Pag-IBIG, DTI, Landbank, DSWD, PAO, at PSA — para maghatid ng direkta, on-site na serbisyo sa mga OFW sa Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Ipinakita ng inisyatiba ang matibay na pangako ng administrasyon na gawing accessible ang mga serbisyo ng gobyerno.
Nagtapos ang kanyang pagbisita sa “Serbisyong May Saya, Hatid ng OWWA,” kung saan nagtipon-tipon ang libu-libong OFW para sa isang gabi ng pagtatanghal, pagtatanghal ng talento, at mga kwentong nagbibigay inspirasyon — isang pagdiriwang ng pagkakaisa, katatagan, at walang hanggang diwa ng migranteng manggagawang Pilipino. | PND
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Malacañang announced the suspension of work in government offices and classes at all levels in Metro Manila and eight nearby provinces on Monday, starting at 1 p.m., due to continued heavy rainfall brought about by the Southwest Monsoon.
Work in government and classes were suspended in the National Capital Region, as well as Cavite, Rizal, Batangas, Laguna, Bulacan, Pampanga, Zambales, and Bataan, taking effect at 1 p.m., according to Memorandum Circular No. 88 issued by the Office of the President.
“However, those agencies whose functions involve the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of other vital services shall continue with their operations and render the necessary services,” the memorandum read.
“The suspension of work for private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads,” it added.
The southwest monsoon, enhanced by Severe Tropical Storm Crising over the weekend, brought heavy rains to Metro Manila and nearby provinces on Monday morning. | PND
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Malacañang has declared July 25 as a special non-working day in Compostela town, in Cebu province, and Santiago, Isabela province, through separate proclamations to recognize special events in the two areas.
Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin signed both proclamations on July 17.
Under Proclamation No. 975, residents of Compostela in Cebu are allowed to have a non-working day to celebrate their town fiesta.
Meanwhile, Proclamation No. 976 designates the same date as a special non-working day in Santiago City, Isabela province, to allow residents to observe Aggaw na Naturales Day, a local cultural observance. | PND
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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday asserted that digital-ready and future-oriented Filipino citizens push the vision of Bagong Pilipinas—one that can keep pace with the rest of the world.
In the latest episode of the BBMVLOG digitalization 2025, the President recognized the Filipinos’ openness to adopting new technologies and embracing globalization.
“Ang Bagong Pilipino ay bukas ang isip sa mga makabagong teknolohiya,” President Marcos said. “Kakambal ng Bagong Pilipinas ang digitalisasyon. Ito ang patuloy nating isinusulong para makasabay tayo sa buong mundo.”
The President noted that while the pandemic initially triggered the shift to online systems, the resilience and adaptability of the Filipinos gave digitalization long-term traction.
The President emphasized that many citizens, having experienced the speed and convenience of digital tools, are now more inclined to move forward with innovation.
“Kailangan lang natin bigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga bago,” the President said.
President Marcos highlighted key government efforts to accelerate digital transformation across sectors. These include the rollout of the National Fiber Backbone across six regions, now benefitting more than 17 million Filipinos.
He also cited the deployment of satellite internet to Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs), including schools that previously had no access.
Additionally, the expansion of free Wi-Fi in public parks, terminals, and transport hubs is helping promote inclusive connectivity and bridge the digital divide.
President Marcos recognized the continued success of the eGov PH Super App, which streamlines government transactions and recently enabled the digital renewal of driver’s licenses in partnership with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).
The app also anchors newly launched eGov Service Hubs established in partnership with local government units.
“Wala nang pila. Wala nang fixer. Wala nang korapsyon,” the President said.
President Marcos acknowledged the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in public life, from providing instant information to assisting in the writing of speeches. However, the President warned against the misuse of digital tools in scams, disinformation, and online gambling.
“Ang teknolohiya ay nandito upang padaliin ang ating buhay,” the President said. “At higit sa lahat, para magbuklod ng pamilyang Pilipino.” | PND
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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. arrived in Washington, D.C. on Sunday, July 20, for a three-day official visit focused on strengthening the Philippines’ strategic partnership with the United States, particularly in the areas of economic and security cooperation.
The President’s aircraft landed at Joint Base Andrews at 2:48 p.m. local time, where he was welcomed by Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez and U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson.
President Marcos is the first Southeast Asian leader to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump since the start of the latter’s second term in January.
In his statement prior to his departure from Manila, President Marcos highlighted the importance of the visit in reaffirming the enduring alliance with the United States to reinforce defense and security cooperation, foster greater trade and economic cooperation, and ensure peace and stability in the region.
President Marcos’ visit signals a shared intent to expand Philippine-U.S. partnership, which is built on decades of cooperation and anchored in mutual respect, prosperity, and regional stability. | PND
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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. departed for Washington, D.C., on Sunday for a three-day official visit aimed at reaffirming the Philippines’ enduring alliance with the United States and advancing key national interests.
Speaking at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City prior to his departure, President Marcos said the official visit to the United States is important because priority items for discussion include enhancing trade and economic cooperation, particularly in light of the recently imposed 20-percent U.S. tariff on Philippine exports.
“My visit to Washington, D.C., and most importantly, my meeting with President Trump, is essential to continuing to advance our national interests and strengthening our alliance,” President Marcos said.
“We will reaffirm our commitment to fostering our long-standing alliances as an instrument of peace and a catalyst of development in the Asia-Pacific region and around the world,” the President said.
The President said the visit builds on the active exchanges that the country has had since US President Donald Trump assumed office in January this year.
President Marcos said his top priority includes enhancing trade and economic cooperation, particularly in light of the recently imposed 20-percent U.S. tariff on Philippine exports.
“I intend to convey to President Trump and his Cabinet officials that the Philippines is ready to negotiate a bilateral trade deal that will ensure strong, mutually beneficial, and future-oriented collaborations that only the United States and the Philippines will be able to take advantage of,” the President said.
“We will see how much progress we can make when it comes to the negotiations with the United States, concerning the changes that we would like to institute, so as to be able to alleviate the effects of a very severe tariff schedule,” the President said.
During the visit, President Marcos is scheduled to meet with various business leaders to explore business opportunities that will help further stimulate the country’s economic growth.
President Marcos’ visit comes at the formal invitation of President Trump, making him the first head of state from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to be hosted by the U.S. leader since Trump assumed office in January this year. | PND
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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is personally overseeing the crafting of his speech and the preparation for the upcoming 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA), reflecting his strong drive to improve the socio-economic conditions of Filipinos, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said on Sunday.
In an interview on the sidelines of the President’s departure ceremony for his official visit to Washington, D.C., Bersamin emphasized that President Marcos is deeply involved in crafting the report for the SONA, which he considers a vital opportunity to communicate the administration’s efforts and plans directly to the Filipino people.
“The President has been very involved personally in the preparation of the SONA because that is the report to the people,” Bersamin told reporters at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.
“He always gives that the highest importance, and I think he has already collected the material for his SONA,” the Executive Secretary added.
Bersamin said the President is eager to report to the public the programs and projects thoughtfully designed to uplift the lives of the Filipino people through the SONA scheduled on July 28.
““Alam niyo si Presidente, masyadong malakas ang focus niya sa mga ganitong bagay because he really loves to communicate to the people the work that he has been doing, that the Cabinet has been doing, that the entire government has been doing,” Bersamin said.
Bersamin noted that President Marcos is still carefully reviewing his report to ensure that the right and most relevant information is clearly and accurately communicated to the Filipino people.
Asked whether the President’s trip to the United States will be included in his report, Bersamin said, “If there is anything worth reporting, we can expect it.”
President Marcos’ visit to Washington, D.C. focuses on deepening the long-standing partnership between the Philippines and the US in key areas such as defense and trade, particularly addressing the 20 percent tariff on Philippine exports. | PND
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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday expressed full support for Filipino boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, who made a celebrated return to the ring and earned a majority draw against reigning WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
The boxing match between Pacquiao and Barrios was hailed as a battle that defied age, exceeded expectations, and challenged the odds.
Before departing for his official visit to the United States, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. took to social media to rally the nation behind the People’s Champ, calling the match “a moment to witness the heart of a champion and the strength of a nation.”
“The Philippines holds its breath as we come together once more, UNITED behind the People’s Champ,” the President added in his post.
Fighting at age 46, Pacquiao went toe-to-toe with 30-year-old Barrios—16 years his junior—at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. After 12 hard-fought rounds, the bout ended in a majority draw, with one judge scoring it 115–113 for Barrios and two scoring it even at 114–114, allowing the American to retain his WBC welterweight title.
Despite the long layoff and the significant age gap, Pacquiao stunned many with his signature speed, footwork, and grit—hallmarks of a storied career that continues to inspire.
Barrios acknowledged Pacquiao’s enduring prowess: “I thought I pulled it out. But I still tip my hat to Manny. It was an honor to share the ring with him,” he said, adding, “His stamina at 46 caught me off guard.”
Pacquiao last fought professionally in August 2021 before announcing his retirement to focus on public service. He served as a senator from 2016 to 2022. He ran and lost in his presidential bid in the 2022 polls, and he lost again in the May 2025 senatorial elections.
Pacquiao’s comeback nearly four years later was welcomed with excitement and deep national pride.
President Marcos echoed the admiration of a nation that continues to stand firmly behind the People’s Champ:
“Laban, Manny! Dalangin ng bawat Pilipino ang iyong tagumpay,” the President said.
The Marcos administration sees Pacquiao’s return not merely as a sporting milestone, but as a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and unity that define the Filipino spirit—core to the Bagong Pilipinas vision.
As Pacman stepped into the ring once more, Filipinos around the world stood united—celebrating his legacy, cheering his courage, and honoring one of the greatest athletes the world has ever known. | PND
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