Today’s Key Stories: A Geo-political Tense Week Ahead

Good day, readers. Here are the top stories for The Manila Times covering Saturday, December 28, 2024.

This week’s edition is sponsored by Wilcon Depot, The Philippines’ premier home improvement and construction supplies retailer—your Trusted Building Partner.

China Warns of Regional Arms Race Due to Typhon Missile Deployment

The decision of the Philippines to team up with the United States in deploying a mid-range missile system on its soil has sparked concerns from China. According to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Mao Ning, this move could lead to increased geopolitical tensions and an arms race in the region. Ning also noted that placing national security and defense in the hands of another country poses risks to the Philippines.

Mary Jane Veloso Transferred to Regular Dormitory at CIW

Mary Jane Veloso has left her quarantine phase at the Reception and Diagnostic Center (RDC) in the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City. Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. confirmed her transfer to a regular dormitory. Veloso will spend the next 55 days at RDC undergoing orientation, diagnostics, and classification. This process, vital for new inmates, familiarizes them with the correctional system’s rules, rights, privileges, and rehabilitation programs.

Nagkaisa Labor Coalition Calls for Budget Veto Over Antipeople Provisions

The Nagkaisa Labor Coalition has urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to reject the 2025 national budget, asserting it contains “unconstitutional and antipeople provisions.” In a statement, the coalition labeled the budget a “corruption express train.” The controversial budget, laden with issues, has ignited debate across the nation.

South Korea Impeaches Acting President Amid Political Turmoil

South Korean lawmakers impeached acting president Han Duck-soo following his predecessor’s martial law declaration that shocked the world. Han took over when President Yoon Suk Yeol was suspended. However, opposition MPs demanded Han’s removal for refusing to conclude Yoon’s impeachment process and bring him to justice. This political upheaval continues to define the country’s political landscape.

2024 Inflation Expected to Hit Target of 3.2%

Inflation could reach 2.3-3.1 percent this month, bringing the full-year average to 3.2 percent, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). This figure aligns with the central bank’s 2.0- to 4.0-percent inflation goal for 2024 to 2028. Weather events, power, and fuel price hikes influenced these forecasted price pressures.

Read more about the 2024 inflation forecast.

Choco Mucho Aims to Reclaim Its Glory in PVL

The Premier Volleyball League (PVL) 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference kicked off with mixed results for champion Choco Mucho. Opening with a loss against Petro Gazz, they secured wins over young teams Galeries and Capital 1. However, back-to-back defeats against Cignal and Creamline dampened their spirits. Choco Mucho rebounded with a 3-3 win-loss card post-hard-fought match against Farm Fresh. Head tactician Dante Alinsurin remains optimistic, confident in the team’s potential.

Follow Choco Mucho’s journey in the PVL season.

Insightful Columns Today

Today’s front page features insightful columns by Antonio Contreras and Yen Makabenta. Contreras advocates for the regulation of political dynasties, while Makabenta ponders the enigmatic nature of time.

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