Here鈥檚 a quick roundup of today鈥檚 top stories:
The Philippine economy grew at an average of 5.6 percent in 2024, a tad faster than the 5.5 percent growth recorded in 2023.
But that pace of expansion fell short of the Marcos administration鈥檚 growth target of 6 to 6.5 percent for last year.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel monitoring a Chinese ship off Zambales, issued an hourly radio challenge against the latter to assert its illegal operation in the area.
PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela said BRP Teresa Magbanua is 鈥渁ctively and resolutely addressing the unlawful presence of the China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 3304 within the Philippines鈥� exclusive economic zone (EEZ).鈥�
Contrary to the claim of a Chinese official, the Philippines never sought permission from Beijing for its resupply missions at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, an official of the National Security Council (NSC) said on Wednesday.
鈥淲e do not get their permission. We do not allow them to board our ships to do inspection, even visual inspection,鈥� Jonathan Malaya, assistant director general and NSC spokesperson, told reporters in Quezon City.