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Travelers heading between Baguio City and Metro Manila will need to adjust their travel budgets following a newly implemented provisional fare increase for provincial buses.



Effective March 14, 2026, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has authorized a rate hike across various bus classifications to address rising operational costs. The order, officially signed on March 13, introduces a ₱0.35 per kilometer increase for air-conditioned provincial units.


New Rates for Baguio–Manila Routes

Under the updated matrix, the standard rate for regular air-conditioned provincial buses now stands at ₱2.45 per kilometer. For the approximately 300 km trip between Baguio and Cubao, the base fare has shifted to roughly ₱735, with most operators rounding the final price to ₱740.




Major carriers, including Victory Liner, have updated their ticketing systems to reflect these changes. Commuters can expect the following estimated rates for the Baguio–Cubao route:

  • Via Gerona, Tarlac: ₱740

  • Via TPLEX Urdaneta: ₱750

  • Deluxe (via TPLEX Pozorrubio): ₱871

  • First Class Express (Non-stop): ₱1,136

  • Royal Class Express (Non-stop): ₱1,646

Fares for trips to Pasay are slightly higher, ranging from ₱756 for standard trips to ₱1,682 for Royal Class services.



Breakdown of Fare Adjustments

The LTFRB’s decision impacts various bus tiers with specific incremental increases:

  • (Non-AC) +₱1.00 base fare; +₱0.30 per succeeding km

  • Regular Air-Con / Super Deluxe / Deluxe +₱0.35 per kilometer

  • Luxury Buses +₱0.45 per kilometer



Discounts and Reminders

Despite the hike, the mandatory 20% discount remains in effect for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). For a standard ₱740 trip to Cubao, discounted passengers will pay approximately ₱588.

The LTFRB reminds the public that fares may vary slightly depending on the specific route taken (such as use of the TPLEX) and the level of onboard amenities. Passengers are encouraged to check with their respective bus terminals for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing before heading out.


THINGS TO DO IN BAGUIO

If you plan to visit Baguio City, here are top activities you shouldn't miss:


WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO

Here are some of the many top hotels with Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) from the Department of Tourism in Baguio:

You may also check the full list of hotels and lodging in Baguio. I also wrote Top10 hotels in Baguio on a separate blog.

For directions and bus schedules, check out my Manila to Baguio guide. For those who are driving to Baguio, you may check the fastest way to Baguio. Read my COMPLETE BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE to know more about Baguio City.

Bus Fare Hike: Baguio–Cubao Now ₱700+ One-Way


Family-run businesses carry the promise of legacy and shared purpose, but they also come with unique challenges. When relatives share ownership or leadership, professional decisions often intertwine with personal emotions. What begins as a small difference in opinion can quickly escalate and threaten not just the company’s future but also the relationships it was built upon.

These situations are far from rare in the Philippines. Many family corporations operate with blurred lines between personal and corporate interests, often without formal agreements or updated governance documents. This lack of structure leaves room for misunderstandings about control, profit distribution, and succession.



Fortunately, the country’s legal system provides clear frameworks for managing these complexities. The Revised Corporation Code sets the rules for company governance and intra-corporate disputes, while the Family Code and Civil Code establish ownership and inheritance rights that apply to family-held shares. If you aim to keep your business both compliant and harmonious, it’s best to learn as much as you can about these laws with the support of a qualified corporate lawyer.

Family disagreements don’t have to become legal crises when you’re properly prepared to handle them. Here are some proactive steps to help you address disputes before they escalate:


1. Keep Governance Structures Up to Date

Yesterday’s rules rarely solve tomorrow’s problems at a growing business. As the company expands, you may find that its decision-making processes or leadership structure no longer match its current reality. This is where it’s critical to consider an amendment of by-laws. When you make time to review and update these foundational rules, you ensure that voting procedures, officer roles, and conflict-resolution mechanisms reflect the company’s present needs rather than early assumptions.

Outdated governance documents can make family disagreements worse by leaving too much open to interpretation. Periodically revisiting your corporate charter and by-laws will not only clarify responsibilities but also reinforce fairness. It gives everyone—whether founder or next-generation leader—a shared framework for accountability and transparency.


2. Clarify Ownership and Succession Plans

Few topics create more tension in a family business than ownership and succession. Unevenly distributed shares or unclear inheritance plans can lead to misunderstandings that, left unchecked, might easily spiral into long-term rifts. To prevent this, it’s vital to establish from the start who owns what, who manages daily operations, and how leadership transitions will unfold over time.

Under Philippine law, these arrangements should be carefully documented to avoid ambiguity. The Family Code dictates how spousal property is treated, while the Civil Code governs inheritance and co-ownership, both of which directly affect corporate shareholdings. Set out clear, legally compliant terms for ownership and succession to protect your company from disputes that can arise when family members interpret verbal promises or informal agreements differently. 



3. Use Shareholder and Buy–Sell Agreements to Prevent Confusion

No family relationship, no matter how close, is immune to change. Circumstances shift, priorities evolve, and not every member will want to stay involved in the business forever. A shareholder or buy–sell agreement gives you a structured way to handle these transitions gracefully. It specifies how shares can be transferred, how they’ll be valued, and who has the right to purchase them if a shareholder exits or passes away.

These agreements are particularly useful in balancing the interests of active and non-active family members. They can prevent disputes over valuation or control while ensuring that ownership changes don’t destabilize operations. It’s also a show of professionalism to have these provisions in place, as it shows that the company treats both business continuity and family harmony as long-term priorities.


4. Explore Mediation and Arbitration Before Litigation

Not every conflict needs to end up in court. In fact, the earlier you intervene, the better your chances of resolving disagreements without destroying family trust. Mediation and arbitration are practical alternatives that can save both relationships and resources. The Revised Corporation Code even allows corporations to include arbitration clauses in their by-laws. This means that disputes among shareholders or directors can be handled privately, outside the public courtroom.

Mediation works best when both parties are open to dialogue and compromise. Arbitration, meanwhile, provides a more formal structure but remains faster and less adversarial than litigation. These mechanisms let you focus on finding solutions instead of assigning blame. 



5. Protect Minority Shareholders’ Rights

Many family corporations concentrate power in the hands of a few members, often leaving minority shareholders feeling unheard. When those in control make unilateral decisions or restrict access to information, it creates an environment ripe for conflict. Philippine law, however, gives minority shareholders specific protections designed to maintain fairness and transparency.
As a shareholder, you have the right to inspect corporate records, participate in meetings, and receive dividends when declared. You may also question management decisions that are oppressive or prejudicial to your interests. Exercising these rights calmly and through the proper channels upholds your position and also helps reinforce good governance practices.


6. Maintain Proper Documentation and Communication

Misunderstandings thrive where documentation is weak. If your records are incomplete or your meetings go unrecorded, even minor disagreements can become sources of lasting resentment. The best way to prevent this is to keep thorough minutes of board meetings, shareholder resolutions, and share transfers. These records serve as objective proof of what was agreed upon and protect all parties in case of future disputes.

Equally important is open, consistent communication. Regular meetings—whether as a family council or formal board—give everyone a chance to voice concerns before they turn into grievances. Transparency builds trust, and trust reduces the likelihood of conflict. 

Family company disputes may test patience and loyalty, but they also reveal how deeply personal a shared enterprise can be. Exercise legal foresight and strive to address conflicts in a structured way, with thorough documentation. This way, you can create a foundation that protects both business continuity and family harmony.

Handling Family Company Disputes the Legal Way in the Philippines


Typhoon Tino (international name: Kalmaegi) has prompted widespread class suspensions across multiple regions of the Visayas and Caraga, as local government units take preemptive action to ensure public safety. Face-to-face classes, spanning all levels in both public and private schools, are cancelled for Tuesday, November 4, 2025, in numerous provinces, with many schools directed to shift to alternative learning modalities.



Affected Regions and Learning Shifts

The class cancellations are most concentrated in Western Visayas (Region VI), Central Visayas (Region VII), Eastern Visayas (Region VIII), and parts of the Caraga Region (Region XIII), which are directly in the projected path of Typhoon Tino. The storm, which is expected to make landfall over the vicinity of Eastern Visayas or Caraga late Monday or early Tuesday, is forecast to bring destructive winds, torrential rain, and the threat of life-threatening storm surges.



Key Areas with Class Suspensions on November 4:



Region VI (Western Visayas):

  • Aklan: All levels in Malay (until Nov. 5), New Washington, Balete, Ibajay, Libertad (no face-to-face), and Kalibo (shift to alternative learning).

  • Antique: Almost all municipalities have suspended face-to-face classes, including Anini-y, Bugasong, Patnongon, and San Jose de Buenavista.

  • Capiz: Roxas City, Dumarao, Ivisan, and Jamindan, with a shift to alternative learning modes.

  • Iloilo: Balasan, Batad, Concepcion, Estancia, and Iloilo City (until Nov. 5 for face-to-face).

  • Negros Occidental: Bacolod City, Bago City, Sagay City, La Carlota City, and Victorias City are among the numerous areas suspending face-to-face classes.



Region VII (Central Visayas):

  • Bohol (all levels).

  • Cebu: Cebu City (until Nov. 5), Lapu-Lapu City (until Nov. 5 for face-to-face), and multiple towns like Carcar City, Daanbantayan, Liloan, and Naga City.

Region VIII (Eastern Visayas):

  • Biliran: All levels in Culaba, Cabucgayan, and Naval.

  • Eastern Samar (all levels, until Nov. 4).

  • Leyte: Tacloban City and other towns like Abuyog and Burauen (until Nov. 4).

  • Northern Samar and Samar (all levels, until Nov. 4).

Region XIII (Caraga):

  • Dinagat Islands (all levels).



Shift to Alternative Learning Modalities

In a major development from previous storm responses, many local orders and university directives explicitly mandate a swift transition to Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM) to prevent an absolute halt in education.

Aklan State University and West Visayas State University (WVSU) have cancelled face-to-face classes, with WVSU shifting to mediated modalities (synchronous or asynchronous), including online learning for its College of Medicine and other health programs.

Schools in Kalibo, Patnongon, and San Jose de Buenavista are among those directed to implement modular distance learning, online learning, or blended learning methods.



The widespread shift reflects the Department of Education's push for learning continuity during severe weather events, ensuring students can remain safe at home without completely missing scheduled lessons.

As Typhoon Tino continues its approach and potential intensification, authorities are reminding the public to monitor official weather advisories from PAGASA. Residents in low-lying and coastal areas, particularly those under higher storm signal warnings, are urged to heed preemptive evacuation orders and remain in safe shelters.

Class Suspensions for Tuesday, November 4, 2025


In a significant move to address a persistent labor crisis in its booming tourism sector, Taiwan is poised to open jobs in the hospitality industry to migrant workers for the first time. The new policy, expected to take effect as early as the first quarter of 2026, aims to fill a critical shortfall of an estimated 6,600 workers and is primarily focused on attracting talent from countries like the Philippines.



The decision comes as Taiwan's hotels, resorts, and restaurants struggle to find local staff willing to take on essential front-line roles. Industry leaders view the incoming foreign labor as a vital lifeline.

"We’re hoping to hire foreign workers because some Taiwanese people might not want to do these jobs," stated Rex, a hotelier, acknowledging the labor preference gap. "Allowing migrant workers to work in the hospitality industry is a positive change."



The new openings will cover a range of crucial roles, including:


  • Housekeeping and Cleaning

  • Reception/Front Desk

  • Food and Beverage Service

The starting salary for these positions is set at NT$32,000 (New Taiwan Dollars).




This move is not simply about filling slots; it emphasizes attracting intermediate-skilled migrant workers. According to Hsiao Ching-tien of the Taiwan Tourist Hotel Association, maintaining high service standards is a key priority.

"When the industry opens up to intermediate skilled migrant workers, they will all have to undergo training for about six months," Hsiao explained. "We’re of course in favor of opening up these jobs to foreign workers."

Applicants will be required to possess the relevant language and technical skills needed to succeed in customer-facing and operational roles.

If you plan to go to Taiwan, here's How to Travel from Manila to Taipei (For First Timers)


To streamline the recruitment process, the Ministry of Labor (MOL) has announced proactive measures. Specifically, the MOL plans to set up a dedicated contact window in the Philippines during the first quarter of 2026. This direct engagement underscores the focus on attracting Filipino workers, who are highly regarded globally for their English proficiency and experience in service-oriented industries.




For Taiwan, this shift represents a balancing act: supporting the rapid growth of its tourism industry while ensuring stable wages and fair working conditions for both local and foreign employees. If successful, the opening of the hospitality sector to a global workforce could set a precedent for addressing labor shortages in other high-demand Taiwanese industries.



Taiwan to Recruit Migrant Workers for Hospitality Sector


The Social Security System (SSS) has opened the doors to exciting career opportunities, announcing 349 vacant Rank and File plantilla positions available nationwide. This significant hiring initiative is a chance for qualified applicants to join a vital government agency.

To help you navigate this process, we've compiled a comprehensive guide detailing the qualifications, requirements, application procedure, and the critical deadline you need to know.



The Vacancies: 349 Rank and File Positions

The SSS is seeking to fill a large number of positions, covering various roles across its national network. These vacancies are for Rank and File plantilla positions, which form the backbone of the organization's operations.


Note on Complete Details: For a comprehensive list of the specific positions, including the exact job titles and their corresponding Qualification Standards (QS), applicants are directed to check the official PDF file provided by the SSS. Be sure to zoom in if the text appears blurry or too small for better readability.



Qualification and Eligibility Standards

Meeting the minimum standards is the first and most crucial step in the application process.


Minimum Qualification Requirements

All candidates must adhere to the following baseline requirements:

  • Meet the minimum Qualification Standards (QS) established for the specific vacant job.

  • Follow all internal SSS rules and policies by the time the application is reviewed.




The Evaluation Process

Your application will undergo a rigorous assessment based on the following criteria, which will commence on the 10th working day after the application deadline:

  • Education, Experience, Training, and Eligibility (EETE): This is the core assessment against the Civil Service Commission (CSC)-approved QS for the specific position.

  • Performance Rating: Applicants must demonstrate a strong work history, specifically achieving at least a Very Satisfactory (VS) performance rating.

  • For semestral assessments: The required periods are the 2nd semester of 2024 and the 1st semester of 2025.

  • For annual assessments: The required period is the Year 2024.

APPLY NOW!


Important Rules and Other Constraints

SSS implements specific policies to ensure fair hiring and compliance with government regulations.


Rules on Relatives and Promotion


Relative Constraint: An applicant must not have more than one (1) relative up to the 3rd degree of consanguinity or affinity currently working at SSS. Furthermore, you cannot apply to a position where your relative serves as the head or supervisor.

Promotion Limit: If you are a current SSS employee seeking promotion, you may only be promoted to a position that is up to three (3) salary grades higher than your current one. Exceptions apply only if explicitly stated under Section 100 of the 2025 CSC Omnibus Rules on Appointment and Other Human Resource Actions (ORAOHRA).

Retirement Constraint: If you are within six (6) months before your retirement, you are ineligible for promotion, unless otherwise allowed by law.

The SSS will strictly follow the CSC Rules on Administrative Cases (RRACCS) throughout the hiring process.




The Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

The SSS application process is conducted primarily through their online eRecruitment Portal.


Application Period and The One Application Rule


Application Period: Applicants must submit their application within 10 calendar days from the day after the job announcement is posted. If the deadline falls on a weekend or a holiday, it will be automatically moved to the next working day.

One Application Rule: Candidates can only apply to one (1) vacancy. Choose your preferred position carefully.



6 Steps to Submitting Your Application

Create an Account: Go to the official SSS careers portal at https://careers.sss.gov.ph/ and register a user account.

File Your Application: Log in to your new account and file your application for the chosen vacancy through the eRecruitment Portal. An email confirmation will be sent upon successful submission.

Download Forms: Navigate to the “Application Status” menu to download the Personal Data Sheet (PDS) and the Application Form. Check that both forms have the required ERA number at the top right corner.

Print Hard Copies: Print two (2) original hard copies of the Notarized PDS and the Work Experience Sheet.

Upload Documents: Use the “File Uploading” menu to upload all required documents in PDF format.

Maximum File Size: 15MB.

Crucial Step: Follow the exact order in the provided checklist.

Finalize: You must click “Finalize Uploaded File” to successfully submit your documents.

Confirmation: Wait for an email confirmation verifying that your documents have been successfully uploaded.



Required Documents and Forms

Applicants (External Applicants and Job Order Workers) must prepare and submit the following:

a. Required Forms (To be Downloaded from the eRecruitment Portal)


Reminders for Filling Out Forms:

Fill out all fields; write “N/A” if a field is not applicable.

Declare any relatives in SSS on the Application Form.

The PDS must have: Notarization or official signature, a passport-size photo (white background, business attire), a thumbmark, and signatures on all pages.

Forms must be accomplished within the application period.

Incomplete or incorrect forms will not be processed.

Ensure compliance with CSC MC No. 08 s. 2025 (a guide is available in the Portal).



b. Supporting Documents (Upload as PDF)

Proof of Eligibility: License, Bar certificate, eligibility card, etc. Screenshots or copies from CSC, PRC, or Supreme Court websites are accepted.

Proof of Education: Transcript of Records (Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree). For fresh graduates, a certificate of course completion is accepted if the TOR is not yet available.

Proof of Work Experience: Employment certificates (with start/end dates for each job), duties and responsibilities, designation orders (if applicable), and service records (if available).

Proof of Training: Certificates of trainings/seminars, including details on dates, hours, and modules.

Other Requirements (for External Applicants and JOW): Original NBI and Police Clearances. These may be requested during the assessment phase.


Application Deadline

The final and most critical piece of information is the deadline.

The deadline for submitting your application and uploading all required forms and documents is Thursday, October 30, 2025.

Late submissions will not be accepted or reviewed under any circumstances. Ensure that all forms are complete, accurate, and uploaded on or before this date.

For any inquiries or technical assistance, you may contact the SSS through:

Mr. Lorenz Francis Junsay: (02) 8709-7198 local 3520

Mr. Michael Arcena: (02) 8709-7198 local 3522


This is an excellent opportunity to serve the public and secure a stable government career. Good luck with your application!

Guide to the SSS Rank and File Vacancies


Several local government units have suspended classes on Monday, October 20, due to the inclement weather caused by Typhoon Ramil.



Below are the class suspensions for Monday, October 20, 2025:


Angeles City - no classes, all levels, public and private

Arayat, Pampanga - no face-to-face classes, all levels, public and private; shift to alternative learning modules

Cavite province - no classes, all levels, public and private

Montalban, Rizal - no face-to-face classes, all levels, public and private; shift to alternative learning modules

Roxas, Capiz - no classes, all levels, public and private (Oct. 20 to 22)

San Clemente, Tarlac - no face-to-face classes, all levels, public and private; shift to alternative learning modules

San Fernando, Pampanga - no face-to-face classes, all levels, public and private; shift to alternative learning modules


Tropical Storm RAMIL (international name: Fengshen) is on the brink of exiting the Luzon landmass, with its center last estimated in the vicinity of Olongapo City, Zambales, as of the 2:00 PM weather bulletin today, October 19, 2025.

The storm maintains its strength, packing maximum sustained winds of $65\text{ km/h}$ near the center and gusts of up to $90\text{ km/h}$. Moving west-northwestward at $15\text{ km/h}$, RAMIL is expected to fully emerge over the West Philippine Sea later this afternoon or evening, but its extensive wind field, stretching up to $430\text{ km}$ outwards, continues to threaten large portions of Luzon.



Despite its imminent exit, a wide swath of Central and Southern Luzon remains under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 2, warning of gale-force winds with speeds ranging from $62$ to $88\text{ km/h}$ over the next 24 hours.

Areas under this heightened alert include most of Pangasinan, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Zambales, portions of Bataan, and the northern and central parts of Metro Manila, including Quezon City and Taguig City.

These winds pose a minor to moderate threat to life and property, necessitating continued vigilance and preparedness for possible structural damage, especially to unshielded or lightly-built structures.



Meanwhile, TCWS No. 1, indicating strong winds, is in effect for an even larger area, including the rest of Metro Manila, Rizal, Laguna, Cavite, and provinces as far north as Cagayan and as far south as Occidental and Oriental Mindoro, and Burias Island.

Authorities have also warned that the storm's trough and outer rainbands, coupled with the easterlies, will continue to bring strong to gale-force gusts to areas not under a wind signal, such as the Caluya Islands, Bicol Region, and Eastern Visayas, today.

Residents are strongly advised to refer to the latest severe weather advisories for information on expected heavy rainfall and associated risks like flooding and landslides.

Please refresh for updates!

Class Suspensions for Monday, October 20, 2025


Commuters in Cavite now have a greener and more convenient way to travel to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) with the official launch of the new UBE Express dispatch station at Robinsons Imus.



The new station, located at the Mall Driveway near the Tokyo Tokyo food truck, marks a significant milestone for sustainable transportation in the city, as it features the launch of UBE Express' first Pure Electric Vehicle (EV) Bus operating on the NAIA route.



The move is part of a joint commitment to environmental sustainability, with Robinsons Malls championing the initiative. "At Robinsons Malls, we believe in creating a future where getting around is easier, cleaner, and kinder to the planet," a representative stated. "By supporting sustainable mobility, we hope to bring communities closer and make everyday journeys more meaningful."


The pure electric bus service offers a direct link for residents and travelers from Imus to all NAIA terminals, promising a quieter and zero-emission ride.




Free Rides to Celebrate Launch


To celebrate the launch of the new station and the pioneering EV bus, UBE Express is offering FREE RIDES to the public today. This gives commuters a chance to experience the premium electric vehicle service firsthand.



Following the launch promotion, the UBE Express service will operate daily from 5:45 AM to 9:20 PM, with a fixed fare of only ₱200 per ride. The new route is expected to provide a reliable, comfortable, and environmentally friendly alternative to private cars and traditional public transport for airport access.




The opening of the new station at Robinsons Imus is seen as a crucial step in expanding eco-friendly public transport options in the greater Metro Manila area and its surrounding provinces.



UBE Express Launches First Pure EV Bus to NAIA from Robinsons Imus


The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has announced a significant shift in mall operating hours and several key traffic control measures aimed at easing the expected surge in holiday congestion across the National Capital Region.

The changes, which affect mall hours, deliveries, sales, roadwork, and bus schedules, are set to take effect starting November 17 and will run until December 25 of this year.



Later Mall Hours on Weekdays

In an agreement reached with mall operators, MMDA Chairperson Romando Artes stated in a press conference that mall operating hours will now be from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays.

Artes clarified that this new schedule will apply Monday through Friday, with weekends and holidays exempted from the later opening time.

To further manage traffic flow, the MMDA also announced two crucial restrictions on mall activities:

  • Mall-wide sales will be strictly restricted to weekends.

  • Mall deliveries will be limited to the late-night hours, specifically between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.




Suspension of Road Excavation

The MMDA is also taking steps to clear the roads of construction-related disruptions.

Artes confirmed that all road excavation activities that may cause traffic in Metro Manila will be suspended during the holiday period, from November 17 to December 25.

He added that contractors would be allowed to resume and even work 24 hours a day starting December 26 onwards, as monitoring and experience show that traffic flow significantly improves after the main holiday rush.



Adjustments to EDSA Bus Schedule

To accommodate commuters traveling to and from other provinces, the MMDA is also adjusting the EDSA bus schedule.

Starting December 20, provincial buses will be allowed to operate nightly between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. Furthermore, buses will be permitted to run 24 hours a day from December 24 to January 2 to support travelers during the peak holiday season.




These measures come as the MMDA prepares for the annual increase in vehicles on Metro Manila roads. According to Artes, the metro typically handles about 3.6 million vehicles daily, a number that traditionally jumps by 10% to 20% during the holidays. The coordinated adjustments are intended to mitigate the heavier traffic that the increased volume will inevitably bring.

Metro Manila Malls to Operate on Later Hours


The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has officially resumed its nationwide voter registration drive, giving millions of Filipinos the opportunity to secure their right to vote in the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Elections scheduled for November 2, 2026.



This crucial period, which runs from October 20, 2025, to May 18, 2026 (unless a new schedule is issued by the Commission), is vital for first-time voters, those who need to reactivate their status, and citizens seeking to update their records.

Registration will be conducted in all local Offices of the Election Officer (OEO) across the country from Mondays to Saturdays, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including satellite registration sites announced by local COMELEC offices.


GET A FORM AND REGISTER HERE!


Essential Services Available Nationwide

All eligible Filipino citizens are encouraged to visit their local COMELEC office to avail of the following services:

  • Application for New Registration (First-time Regular and SK Voters)

  • Application for Reactivation of Registration Records

  • Application for Transfer of Registration Records (from one city/municipality to another, or within the same city/municipality)

  • Application for Change of Name/Correction of Entries in the Registration Record

  • Application for Inclusion of Registration Records and Reinstatement of Name in the List of Voters

  • Updating of Records for Persons with Disabilities (PWD), Senior Citizens, and members of Indigenous People (IP)/Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICC)



Application for Transfer from Foreign Service Post to Local


Note on the Register Anywhere Program (RAP): The COMELEC's Register Anywhere Program (RAP), which allows applicants to register outside their place of residence, will be available only until April 24, 2026.


What to Bring: Requirements for Regular Voter Registration
To facilitate a smooth registration process, applicants must submit one (1) photocopy of any valid, photo-bearing government-issued ID that includes their signature and current residential address.


Accepted Valid Identification Documents:





Student's ID or Library Card


Land Transportation Office (LTO) Driver's License or Student Permit

National Bureau of Investigation NBI Clearance


SSS/GSIS or other Unified Multi-Purpose ID

Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) ID

Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) License

Certificate of Confirmation from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) for ICC/IP members

Other government-issued valid IDs




Crucial Document Guidelines


Proof of Address: For valid IDs that do not contain the applicant's address, a supporting document like a Proof of Billing (electric bill, water bill, internet bill, etc.) should be provided.

Originals Required: Applicants must present the original and submit one photocopy of their documents.

Non-Accepted IDs: The COMELEC will NOT accept Barangay Identification/Certification/Clearance, Community Tax Certificates (Cedula), and Police Clearance.


Special Requirements for SK Voters (Ages 15-17)

Filipino youth intending to vote in the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Elections must be at least 15 years old but less than 18 years old on Election Day, which means they must have been born on or before November 2, 2011. They should bring:

A. Valid IDs: (Any from the accepted list above, but common IDs for minors include)

  • PhilSys National Identification ID
  • PWD ID
  • Student's ID or Library Card
  • Philippine Passport


B. Birth Certificate

The Commission emphasizes the need for all eligible citizens to register early to avoid the rush. Do your part, register now, and ensure your voice is heard in the 2026 Barangay and SK Elections!

COMELEC Kicks Off Voter Registration for 2026 Barangay and SK Elections

class suspension today classpass class cancellation gma news walang pasok gma news class suspension today cyclebar class cancellation policy mcc class cancellations orangetheory class cancellation policy cancellation of classes tomorrow

Classes have been suspended in several key areas across the Philippines for Monday, October 13, 2025, with some suspensions extending, as authorities prioritize health concerns and post-disaster assessments.

The suspensions primarily affect the National Capital Region (NCR) and Marikina City due to a reported increase in flu and flu-like illnesses, while areas in Mindanao are taking precautionary measures following a recent earthquake.



Health Concerns Prompt NCR, Marikina Suspensions

The National Capital Region has announced the suspension of face-to-face classes in all public schools for Monday, October 13. This move is a direct response to a rise in flu and flu-like illnesses cases. Students in the region will shift to alternative learning modalities to continue their education while minimizing health risks.

The suspension is more extensive in Marikina City, where all classes (public and private) across all levels are suspended for both Monday, October 13, and Tuesday, October 14. This two-day measure aims to curb the spread of respiratory illnesses among the student population.


Earthquake Assessment Halts Classes in Mindanao

In Mindanao, suspensions were declared to allow for crucial continuing assessment after a recent earthquake:



Davao Oriental province has suspended face-to-face classes in all public schools, all levels.

Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, has declared a suspension of face-to-face classes for all levels (public and private).




These precautionary measures are in place to ensure the safety of students and staff and to allow authorities to thoroughly check school structures for potential damage.

Parents and guardians are advised to monitor official announcements from their respective local government units and school administrations for updates on the resumption of face-to-face classes.



Class Suspensions for Monday, October 13, 2025


Severe Tropical Storm Opong has prompted several local government units (LGUs) across Luzon and the Visayas to suspend classes for Thursday, September 25, as the storm intensifies and moves closer to the country.



The state weather bureau PAGASA reported that Opong (international name: Bualoi) intensified into a severe tropical storm on Wednesday, with the potential to reach typhoon strength before its expected landfall over the Bicol Region on Friday. Its anticipated path may also bring it south of Metro Manila on Friday evening.

In preparation for heavy rainfall and strong winds, numerous LGUs have declared class suspensions. Malacañang has also suspended work in government offices in four provinces.

SEE THE LATEST ANNOUNCEMENT HERE


Rainy Day Essentials

Don't let the gloomy weather dampen your spirits! Here are some rainy day essentials to keep you cozy and prepared:




Class and Government Work Suspensions for September 25, 2025


The following areas have suspended classes at all levels (public and private):

Albay

Batangas: Alitagtag (until Sept. 26), Taysan

Biliran (until lifted)

Bulacan: Calumpit (shift to modular learning)

Camarines Norte

Camarines Sur (until lifted)

Catanduanes

Dagupan City

Eastern Samar

Laguna

Lucena City

Marinduque

Masbate (until lifted)

Naga City (shift to modular learning)

Northern Samar


Pampanga: Masantol (shift to modular learning)

Pangasinan: Aguilar (until Sept. 26), Bugallon (shift to modular learning), Calasiao, Lingayen (shift to modular learning until Sept. 26), Santa Barbara (until Sept. 26)

Quezon

Rizal: Binangonan (until Sept. 27), Morong, Tanay, and Taytay (all shifting to modular learning until Sept. 27)

Romblon

Samar: Calbiga

Sorsogon (until lifted)

Tacloban City

Classes from kindergarten to high school are also suspended in:

Cebu: Tuburan

Pangasinan: Basista (until Sept. 26)





Government Work Suspensions


In a memorandum circular, Malacañang announced the suspension of work in government offices for Thursday, September 25, in the following provinces:

Sorsogon

Masbate

Northern Samar

Eastern Samar

The memorandum noted that government agencies responsible for basic, vital, and health services, as well as disaster preparedness and response, are required to remain operational.


Weather Forecast and Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals

According to PAGASA, Severe Tropical Storm Opong is forecast to intensify and may reach typhoon status before it makes landfall over the Bicol region. It is expected to cross Southern Luzon throughout Friday, then emerge over the West Philippine Sea and exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Saturday.



As of the latest advisory, Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 2 is raised over Northern Samar and the northern part of Eastern Samar, while TCWS No. 1 is in effect for Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Masbate, Samar, the rest of Eastern Samar, Biliran, and northern Leyte.



PAGASA also warned that Opong may pass south of Metro Manila on Friday evening, which could lead to the hoisting of TCWS No. 3 or 4 in the capital region by Thursday. Residents are strongly advised to take necessary precautions and monitor official updates from their local governments and PAGASA.


Class Suspensions for Thursday, September 25, 2025

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