McLaren had a tough weekend at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were disqualified because their cars failed post-race checks. The rear skid blocks on both cars were thinner than the 9mm limit, which is not allowed under F1 rules.
Championship Standings Shake-Up
Photo from McLaren Official Facebook Page
The disqualifications changed the championship battle. Max Verstappen, the race winner, is now level on points with Oscar Piastri at 366. Lando Norris still leads with 390 points, but the title race is now much closer with only two rounds left.
Technical Issue Confirmed
Photo from McLaren Official Facebook Page
The FIA stewards measured the cars and confirmed the rear skids did not meet the rules. The breach was considered unintentional. McLaren is not the first team to have this problem this season, other drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Nico Hulkenberg faced similar disqualifications.
Race Recap
Photo from McLaren Official Facebook Page
Norris started on pole and tried to pass Verstappen at the start but ran wide and fell back. Later, he was told to slow down due to fuel concerns. Piastri recovered after a first-lap incident and gained positions through good strategy but was also disqualified.
Title Fight Intensifies
Photo from McLaren Official Facebook Page
With two races and one Sprint left, 58 points are still up for grabs. The disqualifications have made the championship fight even tighter, setting up a dramatic finish to the 2025 season.
It’s not every day that two sisters land in the Top 10 of the Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination, but that’s exactly what Quisha Mariz G. Villacorta (TOP 5) and Shariz G. Villacorta (TOP 9) achieved, together, side by side, just as they’ve always been.
Their story doesn’t start with board reviewers or sleepless nights. It starts way back in Grade 1, when their mother decided to enroll them at the same time. What seemed like a simple decision became the beginning of a bond that would shape their entire academic lives. They were never classmates, but they grew up learning from each other. Quisha, the achiever, Valedictorian in Cebu City Science High School and a Magna Cum Laude graduate, naturally became the older sister Shariz looked up to. And Shariz, inspired by her Ate’s example, pushed herself until she walked the stage as a Cum Laude.
Photo from Quisha Mariz Gacasan Villacorta
Preparing for the boards brought them even closer. They seriously started their review around August, often studying in the same room, asking questions, quizzing each other, and laughing through the stress when it all got too heavy. Shariz admits she constantly bothered her sister with questions and doubts she didn’t dare to tell anyone else. But Quisha, ever patient, always listened, always explained, always reassured her.
There were nights when both of them were tired, anxious, or discouraged, but they never let each other fall behind. They learned to balance their strengths and weaknesses, to rest when needed, and to remind each other that they weren’t going through this alone.
Photo from Shariz Gacasan Villacorta
So when the results came out and they saw both their names among the Top 10, it wasn’t just pride they felt. It was a relief. Gratitude. Joy. And the quiet realization that they really did it together.
“We wanted to ace this together, and we did,” Shariz said. “I feel so blessed to have a study mate, a friend, and a sister all in one person.”
For future PNLE takers, their message is simple and honest: no one ever feels 100% ready. What matters is the process, using your time well, trusting the people who support you, and having someone to share the struggle with. “If we were able to do it,” Shariz said, “anyone can.”
Photo from Pexels
The Villacorta sisters’ achievement is more than just two numbers in a list. It’s a celebration of family, teamwork, and love, proof that when you lift each other, you rise higher than you ever could alone.
The Philippines and South Korea have formalized a legal pathway for Filipino seasonal farm workers through a newly signed Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC). This major policy shift aims to regulate deployment under the Seasonal Workers Program (SWP) and ensure stronger protection for migrant laborers.
Government Collaboration Behind the Agreement
Photo from Pexels
The JMC was signed by multiple Philippine agencies, the DMW, DILG, DOJ, DA, BI, and LGU representatives, alongside the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. The partnership sets clear standards for recruitment and deployment, replacing the old local government–to–local government system.
Visa Options and Earnings
Photo from Pexels
Under the SWP, Filipino workers may now apply for either a 3-month short-term employment visa or a 5-month seasonal visa, extendable by another 3 months. The program offers an average net monthly income of approximately ₱60,000, making it a highly sought-after overseas opportunity.
DMW Takes Full Control of Recruitment
Photo from Pexels
A central change in the JMC places full responsibility for screening, recruitment, and deployment on the DMW. Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized that applicants must apply directly to the department — not to LGUs — to protect workers from illegal recruiters promising high salaries.
Problems Under the Old System
Previously, the SWP relied on sister-city partnerships between Philippine and Korean LGUs. While it provided manpower for Korean agriculture and fisheries, it also resulted in 150 complaints from 3,353 deployed workers, including cases of physical abuse, medical emergencies, illegal deductions, and four deaths from natural causes.
Moratorium and Transition Phase
Due to these issues, the DMW imposed a moratorium on January 11, 2024, before introducing temporary guidelines. Under those interim rules, 11,778 workers were deployed without incident, paving the way for permanent regulations under the new circular.
Standardized Process for Applicants
Photo from Pexels
The JMC outlines a unified recruitment pathway. Applicants will undergo Korean language lessons, employment orientation, contract review, insurance enrollment, OWWA membership, and monitoring of workplace conditions, all overseen by the DMW to ensure transparency and safety.
Strict Ban on Brokers and Middlemen
Photo from Pexels
Private recruitment agencies and brokers are now explicitly banned. Four individuals are already facing criminal charges for illegal recruitment, with penalties reaching up to life imprisonment due to multiple victims involved.
Strengthening Protection and Bilateral Cooperation
Through the centralized system, the Philippines aims to eliminate vulnerabilities from the previous LGU-based approach. The JMC solidifies a more secure and equitable process, ensuring that Filipino seasonal workers in South Korea receive full protection, fair treatment, and dignified employment.
K-pop powerhouse ENHYPEN has stepped forward to support the Philippines following catastrophic floods, donating ₩100 million (around ₱4 million) to aid affected communities. The group and their agency, Belift Lab, announced the contribution on Thursday, emphasizing their desire to help a country that has long embraced them.
A Special Bond With Filipino Fans
Photo from Enhypen Facebook Page
In a heartfelt statement, ENHYPEN explained that the severe flooding that displaced thousands deeply moved them. They highlighted the Philippines’ significance in their journey—most notably as the site of their first-ever stadium concert in Southeast Asia—and expressed hope that their donation, though modest, would help ease the burden on affected families.
Coordinated Relief Efforts
Photo from Enhypen Facebook Page
Belift Lab confirmed that the funds will be delivered through the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association, working in collaboration with the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation. The agency shared that they hope the assistance will reach the hardest-hit areas and provide “meaningful help to those affected by the recent floods.”
A Group With Global Reach
Photo from Enhypen Facebook Page
Since debuting in 2020, ENHYPEN, Jungwon, Heeseung, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, and Ni-ki, has become a global force in K-pop. Known for their unique lore and razor-sharp performances, the group has earned five Billboard 200 top 10 albums, further solidifying their influence and the loyalty of fans worldwide.
A Country in Crisis
Photo from archive
The Philippines continues to recover after Super Typhoon Uwan submerged villages, caused mass evacuations, and destroyed infrastructure earlier this month, just weeks after Typhoon Tino ravaged the central islands. The compounded devastation prompted President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to declare a one-year state of national calamity to accelerate relief and rehabilitation efforts.
A Message of Strength and Solidarity
Photo from archive
Through their donation, ENHYPEN conveyed heartfelt support to Filipinos enduring the aftermath of the disasters. The group reassured fans and communities that the connection between ENHYPEN and the Philippines remains strong, offering a message of hope during a challenging time.
Tired of Cebu’s busy streets? Mount Babag, Cebu City’s highest peak at 752 MASL, offers a refreshing hike with stunning city views. Its moderate trails are perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers seeking a short adventure.
The Trails
Photo grab from Google Maps
From Napo, choose between Kahugan Trail, longer but easier, or Busan Trail, shorter and steeper. Ernie’s Trail, branching from Busan, is for those craving a challenge with its steep inclines and handholds.
Scenery & Wildlife
Photo grab from Google Maps
Enjoy mango groves, bamboo forests, and small waterfalls along the way. Birdwatchers may spot kingfishers, Brahminy kites, and the rare black shama. Every step offers picturesque views of Cebu City and the surrounding mountains.
Camping Options
Photo grab from Google Maps
Campers can pitch tents near the former Swiss Chalet Restaurant (20–35 tents) or at the quieter Manwel’s Peak (up to 9 tents) for a 360-degree view of Metro Cebu.
How To Get There?
Location: Cebu City, Philippines
By Car: From downtown Cebu, take Escario Street or Gorordo Avenue to Guadalupe. Continue up the ascending concrete-and-asphalt road through Sapangdaku until you reach Napo, the main jump-off. Parking is available at Napo.
By Commute: Take a jeepney bound for Guadalupe Church. From there, hire a habal-habal (motorcycle-for-hire) to Napo. The trek officially starts at the jump-off point.
The Miss Universe 2025 pageant is in the spotlight after a new photo showed pageant owner Raul Rocha with Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch.
This image has raised questions about fairness and influence in the competition. The Miss Universe Organization has not confirmed whether the photo is real.
Historic Win, Clouded by Drama
Photo grab from Fatima Bosch Instagram
Fatima Bosch made history as the 74th Miss Universe in Thailand, beating over a hundred contestants. However, her victory has been surrounded by controversy, making her win a hot topic beyond her performance on stage.
Tensions During Orientation
Photo grab from Fatima Bosch Instagram
Problems started during the orientation and sashing ceremony. Bosch had a disagreement with organizer Nawat Itsaragrisil over a sponsor shoot. The argument led to her walking out, highlighting conflicts between candidates and organizers.
Support from Fellow Contestants
Photo from Miss Universe
Several delegates supported Bosch by walking out with her. The moment drew global attention to how contestants are treated and showed the importance of respect and fairness in the pageant.
Caught in the Middle
Photo from Miss Universe
Despite her historic win, Bosch remains in the middle of controversies driven by the pageant’s internal conflicts. Her victory is now part of a larger story about influence, control, and transparency in international pageantry.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), the Philippines’ premier tourism transfer hub, has been recognized as Airport of the Year – Asia at the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025, during the awards ceremony held at the Marina Bay Sands, Singapore on November 25, 2025.
The award recognizes MCIA’s commitment to delivering the most efficient and seamless transfer experience in the Philippines through its transformative CEBConnects initiative.
CEBConnects is a facility focused on optimizing air-to-air transfers at MCIA, setting a new benchmark for operational excellence in the country. The initiative involved a major redesign of passenger flow and infrastructure, including the introduction of dedicated transfer facilities and streamlined processes.
With the implementation of CEBConnects, MCIA has reduced its Minimum Connection Time (MCT), positioning the airport among the fastest in the region:
Domestic to Domestic (D-D): Reduced from 60 minutes to 35 minutes.
Domestic to International (D-I), International to Domestic (I-D), and International to International (I-I): Reduced from 90 minutes to 60 minutes.
This enhancement has already driven a 45% increase in transfer passenger volume year on year, solidifying MCIA’s role as a vital gateway for connecting travelers to the Philippines’ vast archipelago.
“This award is a testament to the dedication of the entire MCIA community and the success of CEBConnects,” remarked Athanasios Titonis, Chief Executive Officer of Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC). “By strategically leveraging Cebu’s central geographical location, we are not just speeding up transfers; we are actively supporting the country’s tourism goals by making it easier for travelers to reach other island destinations. With this, the vacation experience actually begins the moment they arrive at MCIA.”
Beyond efficiency, the streamlined process provides passengers with more time to enjoy MCIA’s extensive retail and dining options, enhancing the overall airport experience.
“The improvements driven by CEBConnects are a game-changer for airline operations and customer experience,” said Julius G. Neri, Jr, General Manager and CEO of Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA). “The real-time benefits in on-time performance that we see enhances the transfer experience of our passengers who now find MCIA a highly competitive and reliable hub for regional travel.”
MCIA currently serves 25 airline partners with a robust point-to-point network and maintains an average on-time performance rate of almost 80%. This strong performance is continually bolstered by joint route marketing and global promotional efforts.
Through the ongoing success of CEBConnects, MCIA is shaping a more connected and traveler-centered future, reinforcing its status as the Philippines’ gateway to the world.
ABOUT MACTAN-CEBU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Mactan–Cebu International Airport (MCIA), operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC), is the Philippines’ premier gateway to the Visayas and Mindanao, serving millions of passengers annually with world-class facilities and services. MCIA pioneers strategic initiatives to enhance connectivity and passenger experience, including CEBConnects for seamless air-to-air transfers, Cebu+ for integrated air-to-sea travel, and CEBBalik to establish an OFW Center for migrant worker support. MCIA is named Best Airport in Asia-Pacific in the 5–15 million Passengers Per Annum category at the 2024 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards, and has also received the Platinum Green Airport Award, Level 1 Airport Carbon Accreditation, and Level 1 Accessibility Accreditation. Further strengthening its position as a leading international hub, MCIA is the first airport in the Philippines to operate parallel runways, significantly enhancing efficiency and capacity. Guided by a long-term masterplan, MCIA is committed to delivering a safe, sustainable, and globally competitive airport experience that supports tourism, trade, and national development.
Photo from Miss Côte d’Ivoire Official Facebook Page
Côte d’Ivoire’s Olivia Yacé has stepped down from her title as Miss Universe Africa & Oceania, only days after being crowned at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok. Her decision was announced publicly on November 24, 2025.
Values Over Title
Photo from Miss Côte d’Ivoire Official Facebook Page
In her resignation, Yacé underscored that she is choosing to remain “firmly anchored” in her core principles, respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity. She said staying true to these values was more important than holding a pageant crown.
Complete Break with MUO
Photo from Miss Côte d’Ivoire Official Facebook Page
Yacé is not only relinquishing her continental queen sash, she is also ending all future ties with the Miss Universe Organization. The Miss Côte d’Ivoire Committee (COMICI) confirmed her withdrawal “from all titles and mandates” with Miss Universe.
Symbolic Return
Photo from Miss Côte d’Ivoire Official Facebook Page
According to COMICI, Yacé will formally return her Africa & Oceania sash to the Miss Universe Organization, a symbolic act to make the resignation public and jointly recognized.
A Role Model’s Mission
Photo from Miss Côte d’Ivoire Official Facebook Page
Yacé framed her resignation as a way to more fully defend her beliefs and serve as a role model. She expressed a desire to inspire young girls to push their boundaries and walk confidently into spaces where they feel they might not belong.
Context of Controversy
Her resignation comes amid broader controversy surrounding the Miss Universe 2025 pageant. Previous days saw allegations of vote manipulation and judging irregularities, claims that have intensified scrutiny on the organization.
Legacy and Next Step
Photo from Miss Côte d’Ivoire Official Facebook Page
Yacé’s choice to step away from her continental title is being widely interpreted as a principled stand, prioritizing integrity and personal mission over fame. Her next moves, she says, will be guided by the same “guiding principles that pave the way toward excellence.”
Heavy rainfall is expected to persist across Cebu from November 24 to 26 as a Low Pressure Area (LPA) that recently entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility influences weather conditions in the region. The state weather bureau reports that this system may bring widespread rain showers that pose risks to many communities.
Projected Rainfall Levels
Photo from DOST-PAGASA
Forecasts indicate heavy to intense rainfall amounting to 100–200 mm from November 24 to 25, with moderate to heavy rainfall of 50–100 mm continuing until Wednesday afternoon. Additional alerts project a possible 100–250 mm of accumulated rainfall during the passage of the potential tropical disturbance #VerbenaPH combined with the effects of the shearline.
Flood and Landslide Risks
Photo from CCDRMO
With significant volumes of rain expected, localized flooding remains a concern for low-lying and river-adjacent areas. Mountainous or saturated zones also face a heightened likelihood of landslides as the ground weakens under prolonged rainfall.
Weather System Location and Influence
Photo from DOST-PAGASA
As of November 23, the LPA was located approximately 735 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. Its trough continues to generate cloudy skies and scattered thunderstorms across the Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Caraga, Davao Region, and parts of Bicol.
Context After Recent Disaster
Photo from CCDRMO
The renewed threat of heavy rains arises just weeks after Typhoon Tino delivered more than a month’s worth of rainfall in a single day. That weather event caused widespread flooding, river overflow, property damage, and dangerous conditions that left many communities vulnerable.
Ongoing Monitoring and Preparedness
Photo from DOST-PAGASA
The public is advised to remain alert as multiple weather systems influence the region. Continuous monitoring is essential as rainfall levels may rapidly intensify, increasing the risk of flooding and landslides throughout Cebu and surrounding areas.
Mayor Samsam Gullas has officially announced that Talisay City is redirecting the budget for its major upcoming events—the annual grand Christmas program, Sinulog 2026 participation, and the Charter Day Concert—to aid in the recovery of barangays and communities severely affected by Typhoon Tino. The decision was shared through a heartfelt Facebook post and official city announcements.
Simple but Meaningful: “Symbols of Hope” Lang Usa
Photo from Mayor Samsam Gullas Facebook Page
While major festivities are suspended, the Talisay City Hall will still feature a Christmas Tree and a Nativity Scene (Belen) to symbolize hope for all Talisaynons. Decorations will be put up, but the display will be noticeably modest compared to previous years, reflecting the city’s solidarity with neighbors and fellow Cebuanos who are still focused on typhoon recovery.
Mayor Gullas is prioritizing aid over elaborate Christmas decorations this year, stating, “We should not focus on making our Christmas program beautiful. It is more important that we help.” He appealed to residents for their understanding and patience, stressing that the genuine meaning of Christmas lies in assisting fellow Talisaynons who are still in the process of rebuilding.
No Sinulog 2026 Entry, No Charter Day Concert
Photo from Mayor Samsam Gullas Facebook Page
Talisay has decided to withdraw from two highly anticipated events, Sinulog 2026 and the Charter Day Concert. Mayor Gullas explained that the city must redirect its focus to essential priorities: providing basic needs, establishing temporary shelter, and restoring normalcy in communities devastated by Typhoon Tino. Funds previously allocated for entertainment will now be repurposed to support rehabilitation efforts, infrastructure repairs, and direct assistance for the most affected residents.
Magtinabangay ta sa Pagbangon: Community Over Celebration
Photo from Mayor Samsam Gullas Facebook Page
Mayor Gullas echoed what many feel: now is a time for unity and compassion, not for lavish shows. Like during the last fiesta—where fun was kept simple to help other storm-struck LGUs—this call to “mag-amping ug magtinabangay ta” is what Talisay needs to rise again.
He urges everyone to continue helping, volunteering, and sharing what they can, so “Together, we rise”—not just for today, but for a stronger and more resilient Talisay in the years ahead.
