Hollywood Films to be set in the Philippines

Donald Petrie to Direct a Hollywood Romcom Set in the Philippines

Paulina Singh
Preview 
16 January 2025

He's the director behind cult classics like “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” and "Miss Congeniality."

Hollywood is setting its sights on the Philippines for a new romantic comedy. On January 14 (U.S. time), American entertainment magazine Variety reported that director Donald Petrie has officially signed on to helm an upcoming film titled The Last Resort.

For the unacquainted, Donald is the director behind the films How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days  (2003) and Miss Congeniality (2000)—just some of the 2000's most-loved romantic comedies, no biggie!

Many details about the project remain under wraps. However, it was revealed that the film will feature a screenplay penned by Karen McCullah, the Philippine-born American writer behind cult favorites 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) and She’s the Man (2006).

According to the report, the film centers on a hotel executive tasked with scouting potential resort locations in the Philippines. Along the way, she becomes enchanted by the country’s picturesque landscapes and warm-hearted people, eventually crossing paths with Ben, described as “a charming expatriate charter pilot.”

Veteran casting director Sheila Jaffe, whose expansive portfolio includes Entourage (2004) and The Italian Job (2003), is set to lead the casting process, with casting expected to begin early this year.

The film will be produced by Filipino producer Ernesto “Bong” Sta. Maria Jr. and Hollywood-based Raja Collins.  Moreover, Filipino business magnate Manuel V. Pangilinan has also signed on as the film's executive producer. Needless to say, The Last Resort is shaping up to be a rom-com that Filipinos and international cinephiles can look forward to. 

PH to post strong growth in 2025

PH to deliver one of strongest growths in ASEAN

By Anna Leah Gonzales
Philippine News Agency

January 14, 2025

MANILA – The Philippine economy is expected to post one of the highest growths in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this year, the HSBC Global Private Banking and the Bank of America (BofA) said.

ECONOMIC GROWTH. High-rise buildings as seen from Torre de Manila on Tuesday (Jan. 14, 2025). HSBC Global Private Banking expects the Philippine economy to deliver one of the strongest growths in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations this year. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)

In a report released on Tuesday, HSBC Global Private Banking and Wealth chief investment officer for Southeast Asia and India, James Cheo, said the Philippine economy is expected to deliver one of the strongest growths in the region this year.

Cheo said economic growth would be driven by robust domestic consumption, a thriving business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, and increasing investments in digital services.

Household consumption is also expected to return to the pre-pandemic growth rate, supported by easing inflation, a strong labor market, and increased infrastructure spending.

According to Cheo, the country’s strength in services exports, including information technology and BPO services, also provides a buffer against global trade uncertainties and tariff risks.

“Services exports and overseas remittances, which remain key economic pillars, will continue to contribute significantly to economic resilience and stability in the Philippines. Monetary and fiscal policies are aligned to support growth while managing risks," he said.

He noted that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas would likely reduce the policy rate to 5 percent in the third quarter of this year as it cautiously navigates external risks, such as potential volatility in the peso and the US Federal Reserve’s easing cycle.

"On the fiscal side, the government’s infrastructure agenda remains a key growth driver, supported by revenue-enhancing measures," he said.

Cheo, meanwhile, said the peso is likely to face volatility from a stronger dollar but its high carry will be a buffer.

"We are bullish on the PHP and expect it to stay resilient at 59.8 against the USD by end-2025,” he said.

In a separate report, BofA revised upward its Philippine economic growth forecast to 5.9 percent this year from the earlier 5.5 percent projection.

In the ASEAN-6, the economic projection for the Philippines is the second highest, next to Vietnam's 6.8 percent economic growth forecast.

The ASEAN-6 consists of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

According to BofA, the Philippines, which is domestic-oriented, is "less vulnerable" to the impact of the possible higher tariff that will be imposed by the United States.

BofA, meanwhile, said headline inflation is expected to remain within the government's 2 percent to 4 percent target. (PNA)

PH students shine at 6th Copernicus Science Olympiad in Texas

Filipino students win big at global science Olympiad

Che Palicte 

Inquirer.net

11 January 2025

DAVAO CITY – Six Filipino students won multiple awards at the 6th Copernicus International Natural Science Olympiad in Texas, the United States on Jan. 5-10.

Dr. Ma. Theresa Bad-ang, mother of contestant Richmarth Duke Bad-ang, said Friday the Philippines ranked among the top three countries with the most medals.

“All contestants from Team Philippines received an award,” she said.

Her son, 17, who attends the University of Immaculate Conception – Davao City, won a bronze medal in Natural Science (Category 5). Iwen Manaba, 17, from the School of Saint Anthony in the National Capital Region, won silver in the same category.

John Hermes Mariñas, 10, from the Maria Loreto Integrated School, Inc. in Oriental Mindoro, won gold in Natural Science (Category 2). Rjian Felminia Acevedo, 16, from the Philippine Science High School -Zamboanga Peninsula Region Campus (PSHS-ZPRC) in Zamboanga del Norte, also won gold in Natural Science (Category 4).

Jaymee Kristen Concha, 14, from PSHS-ZPRC, won bronze in Natural Science (Category 4). Marquis Xavier Zamuco, 18, from the Saint Louis University Laboratory Senior High School in Baguio City, won bronze in Physics and Astronomy (Category 3).

Bad-ang said more than 200 students from 18 countries competed.

The Olympiad focused on natural sciences, physics, and astronomy.

The examinations were held at the Rice University in Houston on Jan. 8.

PH firms builds innovative projects for resiliency and sustainability

PH firms champion green spaces, sustainability standards

Inquirer.net

09 January 2024

As the world grapples with the urgent threat of climate change, the creation of sustainable spaces has become an imperative to protect the environment from waste and pollution and to conserve vital resources.

Thus, the green industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, green building, and waste management.

In the Philippines, a wave of innovative building projects is setting the standard for climate resilience and sustainability. These efforts are spearheaded by the Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC) through its “educate, advocate, and rate” campaign, which plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable building practices across the country. Local companies are not only adapting to climate change but are leading the charge by integrating robust adaptation and biodiversity strategies into their development projects.

PHILGBC and the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) have established the Green Building Sector Skills Council (GBSSC) through A Future that Works, a program supported by the Australian Government that aims to bridge jobs and skills gaps by organizing industry leaders and experts through Sectors Skills Councils, and communicate labor market needs to align them with education and training.

Projects like NEO’s BERDE-certified buildings and Aboitiz InfraCapital’s Lima Estates showcase the integration of green building principles, from energy efficiency to biodiversity conservation. The BERDE program was established by PHILGBC to develop the Philippines’ own national voluntary green building rating system to spur green building projects in the country.

Lima Estate | Lipa City 

Residential developments such as Mandani Bay Suites and Botanika Nature Residences are also leading the way in this field, blending urban living with nature through innovative designs and sustainable materials.

Mandani Bay Suites | Cebu City

Botanika Nature Residences | Alabang, Muntinlupa City

Beyond Metro Manila, projects like HTLand’s Mandaue development and Cebu Exchange are setting new standards for regional sustainability. By incorporating features like stormwater recycling, energy-efficient technologies, and urban agriculture, these projects contribute to climate resilience and promote a greener future.

Cebu Exchange | Cebu City

Meanwhile, developments like Latitude Corporate Center and Parqal are redefining urban spaces by prioritizing green infrastructure and community engagement. These projects demonstrate that sustainable development can go hand-in-hand with creating vibrant and livable cities.

Parqal Mall | Aseana, Paranaque City

The future looks promising for green building in the Philippines, especially as the GBSSC ramps up its education activities. This initiative is expected to catalyze even more green building projects as more professionals are trained in sustainable construction practices, ensuring that the next wave of buildings not only meet current standards but set new benchmarks in environmental responsibility.

Under the guidance of the PHILGBC, these initiatives highlight how integrating biodiversity and sustainable practices into building and operational strategies not only addresses the immediate impacts of climate change, but also ensures long-term environmental health and sustainability.

As these companies lead by example, they forge a path that hopefully many others will follow, securing a resilient and sustainable future for the next generations of Filipinos.

Team PH garnered overall championship in China Math Olympiad

Team PH reigns in China Math Olympiad

Story by Leilanie Adriano
Inquirer.net
08 January 2024

LAOAG CITY, Philippines — Team Philippines emerged overall champion in the World International Mathematical Olympiad (WIMO) finals in Shenzhen, China bagging 10 gold, 10 silver and 20 bronze medals.

In a social media post Tuesday, the Math Olympiads Training League Inc. (MOTLI) shared that Jenylle Nyka Lee, Carsten Edmund Ang, Allen Iver Barroga and Ma. Cassandra Reich Duque led the charge during the event held Jan. 3 to 6.

Barroga and Duque are both from Sarrat National High School (SNHS) in Ilocos Norte.

Lee represents Chiang Kai Shek College and Ang is from the Chinese International School, both in Metro Manila.

“This outstanding accomplishment is a testament to the nation’s longstanding dedication in fostering excellence in the field of mathematics,” MOTLI said in a statement.

Duque is the first Filipino student to receive a full scholarship at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen for her tertiary education. The university ranked 34th among all Ivy League schools in the world in 2024.

The graduating mathlete won the championship in the senior secondary category.

Marietta Yap, principal of SNHS, told the Philippine News Agency that the Duque family has yet to make a final decision on the offer.

“That will be carefully discussed and decided over by the family,” she said.

WIMO 2024 was participated in by more than 15 countries, with 67 representatives from the Philippines. 

Siquijor becoming a popular choice for international tourists

Siquijor: Emerging int'l tourist destination, says digital travel platform

GMA Regional TV News
January 07, 2025

Siquijor Island has become a popular choice among international travelers, rapidly emerging as the fastest-growing travel destination in the Philippines, Agoda’s annual ranking report says.

Cambugahay Falls

Comparing accommodation booking ranks from January to November 2024 to the same period in 2023, Agoda's annual ranking identified Siquijor Island as one of the highest climbers in the Philippines for international travelers.

Located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, Siquijor Island is a place of unique charm, known for its mystical reputation, pristine beaches, and lush natural beauty. 

Among its top tourists spots include the Salagdoong Man-Made Molave Forest, Cang-Isok House, and Lugnason Falls.

Meanwhile, Bohol is the top trending destination among Filipino domestic travelers. Located in Central Visayas, the province is gaining popularity among local travelers thanks to “stunning natural attractions, rich cultural heritage, and unique wildlife,” Agoda said in a statement.

“The rising popularity of Siquijor and Bohol opens up new horizons for travelers to experience the charm of the Philippines’ lesser-known destinations. Agoda is proud to support efforts to promote these secondary destinations,” said Agoda Philippines Country Director, Michael Hwang.(via GMA Integrated News)

PH records all-time tourism receipts in 2024

PH hits record-high tourism revenue of P760-B in 2024

Joyce Ann L. Rocamora
Philippine News Agency
January 6, 2025

MANILA – Philippine tourism earned an all-time high revenue of PHP760.5 billion in 2024, translating to a 126.75 percent recovery rate from the 2019 pre-pandemic levels.

Revenues from inbound tourism expenditures -- representing the total amount spent by non-resident visitors -- were 9.04 percent higher compared to the PHP697.46 billion in 2023.

ALL-TIME HIGH. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco speaks at the Kapihan Sa Manila Hotel on Sept. 11, 2024. Frasco on Monday (Jan. 6, 2025) said tourism is contributing significantly to the nation's economic growth after it posted an all-time high revenue of PHP760.5 billion in 2024, translating to a 126.75 percent recovery rate from the 2019 pre-pandemic levels. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)

Department of Tourism (DOT) data showed earnings surpassed the estimated PHP600.01 billion in 2019 by an impressive 26.75 percent.

“With these figures, it is clear that the Philippine tourism industry is not only bouncing back but also evolving and expanding, contributing significantly to the nation's economic stability and growth. In the past year, we have witnessed remarkable growth in tourism revenue, which has surpassed previous records,” Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said Monday.

“This achievement is not just a statistic. It translates to thousands of jobs created for Filipinos, fostering economic resilience and enabling families to thrive,” she added.

She attributed this growth to the pro-tourism policies of the Marcos administration that prioritized the sustainable development of Philippine tourism resources.

“These policies focus on enhancing infrastructure, promoting heritage conservation and investing in skills development programs for our workforce, among others. We believe that the growth of tourism should be inclusive and equitable, empowering local entrepreneurs and communities,” she said.

Based on the World Travel and Tourism Council data, international tourists spend at least USD2,073 per capita.

From an average of nine nights in 2019, tourists are now staying an average of over 11 nights in the country, while 70 percent are repeat visitors.

Continued collaboration with stakeholders from the private sector also garnered about 63.18 percent repeat visitors in 2023, the DOT said.

Tourist arrivals

While falling short of its original target of 7.7 million, the DOT said the country still recorded growth in the number of foreign visitors last year at 5,949,350, up by 9.15 percent from the 5.45 million foreign guests recorded in 2023.

South Korea maintained its position as the top source of foreign tourists, with arrivals increasing to 1,574,152 from 1,455,977 in 2023, garnering more than 26.46 percent of the total market share.

Frasco cited the country’s “effective strategic marketing initiatives, enhanced air connectivity and strengthened cultural exchanges” for the sustained number of Korean tourists to the Philippines.

“Furthermore, the Philippines' growing reputation as a prime destination for incentive travel has played a key role in this positive trend, attracting an increasing number of Korean companies hosting their reward trips for their employees in the Philippines' world-class tourist destinations," she said.

The United States ranked second, with 1,076,663 visitors in 2024, increasing from 1,041,305 in 2023. Enhanced connectivity, including nonstop flights from San Francisco to Manila by United Airlines and from Seattle to Manila by Philippine Airlines contributed to the growth of the market.

Japan, meanwhile, emerged as a standout market with a 22.84 percent growth in arrivals, reaching 444,528 visitors from its previous year’s 361,862.

The surge was attributed to aggressive tourism campaigns and strategic partnerships with Japanese travel agencies that paved further awareness and interest in the Philippines as a travel destination.

Though significantly lower than the pre-pandemic figures, China showed signs of recovery with 313,856 arrivals compared to 264,922 in the previous year.

This can be attributed, the DOT said, to the increased number of flights from 2023, both commercial and chartered, including the first half of 2024, connecting China directly to Cebu, Bohol, and Davao.

Cruise ships also started to arrive during the second half of 2024, with the new visa waiver program becoming an important factor for the improved numbers.

Other consistent contributors included Australia (299,286) and Canada (269,300). Emerging markets like Taiwan and Singapore demonstrated strong growth momentum, with arrivals reaching 213,833 and 198,471, respectively.

The introduction of direct flights to Kalibo in Aklan and Puerto Princesa in Palawan, as well as the growth of niche markets such as English as Second Language (ESL) learning and diving, contributed greatly to the visits of guests from Taiwan.

The United Kingdom likewise sustained its position among the top contributors with 178,656 visitors, driven by a keen interest in heritage tourism and adventure activities.

Meanwhile, Malaysia emerged 10th with 99,881 registered arrivals in 2024.

The DOT said the Middle Eastern market similarly showed promising signs of recovery in 2024.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) posted a remarkable 668.34 percent recovery rate from its 2019 figures, reflecting increased air connectivity and a surge in interest in the Philippines as a leisure destination.

Qatar followed closely, with an impressive 832.87 percent recovery rate, and Saudi Arabia with 66.54 percent growth.

Likewise, Oman and Bahrain registered more than 200 percent recovery rates from the 2019 number of arrivals, the DOT said.

Those in the top 25 source markets which have fully recovered as compared with 2019 data included Australia (102.63 percent), Canada (109.26 percent), Hong Kong (106.79 percent), UAE (668.34 percent), Italy (143.02 percent), Spain (111.08 percent), Guam (200.19 percent), New Zealand (100.50 percent) and Switzerland (102.01 percent).

"The growth in our visitor arrivals and receipts in 2024 underscores the resilience of the Philippine tourism industry and the collective efforts of our stakeholders. This success is a testament to our unwavering commitment to showcasing the beauty, culture, and hospitality that make the Philippines truly unique on the global stage," Frasco said.

More overseas Filipinos also traveled to the Philippines last year at 510,383, representing a seven-fold increase from 72,436 in 2019. (PNA)