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This is absurd. I'd rather just play rock-paper-scissors (bato bato pick) 😢

A full-scale replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon, on display in Manila

Is there a new person about to lose their license?

Poor G-Zyfp.

I know what you did, boss

Hoping that Bulacan cuisine receives the recognition it deserves and becomes a bigger part of Philippine popular food culture.

As a Bulakenyo who grew up in Metro Manila, I've recently fallen in love with Filipino food, and through food heritage advocacy groups like FEATR and Lokalpedia, and major media outlets like GMA and ABS-CBN, I've come to learn more about Bulacan's rich culinary heritage.

Even with so much content covering this province's cherished snacks and traditional dishes (as far as I know, Bulacan is among the provinces most often covered by FEATR), I feel that Bulacan cuisine remains relatively unknown in mainstream Philippine food culture compared to established food powerhouses such as Pampanga, Cebu, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Ilocos, Bicol, and Batangas.

I'm truly happy to see each regional cuisine recognized for its distinct flavors, specialties, and food traditions. At the same time, I hope that someday Bulacan will receive similar recognition as a food heritage destination, not only as something often featured in historical documentaries or travel vlogs. Unfortunately, Bulacan cuisine does not seem to be promoted enough, and many Bulakenyos themselves often seem unfamiliar with their province's native dishes and traditional snacks.

Bulacan's food was shaped by fertile farmland, freshwater resources, and its proximity to Manila Bay. Its culinary traditions are built on abundant local ingredients such as rice, freshwater fish, and vegetables. The province is also famous for its traditional kakanin, rice-based snacks, pastries, and desserts, reflecting its long history of rice cultivation and confectionery tradition. Its food heritage has been enriched by Spanish colonial influences, the history of the revolution, local artistry, and family heirloom recipes passed down through generations.

From a PR perspective, Bulacan has been going through a difficult period in its image due to controversies surrounding flood control projects and ongoing problems with poor road conditions. But these issues should not overshadow the province's rich history, cultural heritage, and culinary traditions. Bulacan has much more to offer beyond news headlines, and its food culture deserves greater recognition.

From traditional sweets and kakanin to savory main dishes and family heirloom recipes, here are Bulacan's native dishes and traditional snacks that I hope more Filipinos will come to know and enjoy!

Pastries, Kakanin, and Desserts

• Pastillas de Leche (with pabalat art) – Pastillas de Leche originated from milk candy that farmers in San Miguel, Bulacan, used to make at home with carabao or cow's milk and sugar. It is celebrated annually through the Pastillas Festival, held since 2006, which also showcases pabalat art, an intricate craft of cutting and decorating colorful papel de hapon wrappers, a tradition whose practitioners are steadily declining.

• Ensaymadang Malolos – Ensaymadang Malolos is usually a deeper color. It is topped with butter and cheese and a slice of salted duck egg. Eurobake never fails, but other bakeries also make delicious versions.

• Pinaso – A dessert similar to leche flan, made with egg yolks, milk, and crushed biscuits. Traditionally, the top is scorched with a heated iron spatula (plantsa), creating a caramelized, crispy crust that makes it much sweeter. Bistro Maloleño in Malolos Bayan serves this dish.

• Gurgurya/Gorgoria – A Malolos heirloom recipe, a crispy and glossy fried dough pastry. It is said to originate from the Alberta Uitangcoy-Santos family during the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines.

• Minasa – Traditionally, minasa is a dry biscuit made from arrowroot starch, and it takes three days just to extract the starch from the plant. Its surface is stamped with flower, leaf, and vine patterns using a wooden mold called a trohel. It can be bought at pasalubong shops across Bulacan.

• Rosalies Suman Pinipig – Suman pinipig is a soft, chewy kakanin made from pinipig, coconut milk, and sugar, wrapped in banana leaves and topped with latik. Rosalie's is the flagship, with its main branch in Marilao and several other branches within Bulacan.

• Empanada de Kaliskis – A traditional layered crispy pastry originating from Malolos, Bulacan, known for its distinctive crust resembling fish scales (kaliskis). It began in the 1820s. Mercys is the original shop in Malolos Bayan, while Catalinas Kitchen offers new variations on this heirloom food.

• Inipit – Inipit is a popular Filipino dessert made of two layers of sponge cake with a creamy custard filling. There are many versions, but the most common combination is plain vanilla sponge with mashed potato filling. It originated in Malolos City and was created by Salome P. De Ramos in the 1940s. Eurobake is excellent here too, but other bakeries are also good. Original Inipit >>>> Lemon Square

• Belekoy – A dessert made by mixing glutinous rice flour, brown sugar, water, apple juice, vanilla, and toasted sesame seeds. The rice flour is toasted together with the sesame seeds until both turn light brown.

• Diverse kakanin culture (Gorios and Mimis, Citangs, Puto Francia, and more)

Main Dishes

• Hamon Bulakenya – Malolos's Filipino-style ham, made by marinating pork in pineapple juice and beer, then glazed and served with a lightly burnt sugar topping. It is on the menu at Bistro Maloleño.

• Sinuso – A crispy fried pork mammary gland dish originating from Bocaue. To make sinuso, it must be cooked immediately after being cleaned or frozen right away, because the milk inside can spoil. This milk is what makes sinuso delicious, said to have a "buttery, milky, creamy" flavor. Ogoy's Sizzling & Tapsi serves this dish.

• Pancit Alanganin – Bocaue's unique pancit alanganin: a soupy pancit bihon with milk, vegetables, and chicharron. It can be eaten at Norys Restaurant in Bocaue.

• Chicken Pakam – A simple chicken and ginger dish from Malolos. It is eaten as ulam (a side dish), and sometimes as pulutan (drinking snacks).

• Serkele – A variant of dinuguan from Balibago, Bulacan, usually cooked with beef offal and beef blood in a salty, sour broth. Aling Luring's Goto and Serkele is the original restaurant for this dish. It is also popular in Cauayan, Isabela, where there is an Aling Luring branch.

• Asado de Carajay – Meat (pork, beef, or chicken) simmered with soy sauce, bay leaves, whole peppercorns, calamansi, onions, and various vegetables (usually tomatoes, potatoes, mushrooms, and carrots). It is traditionally cooked in a wok, which is how it got its name.

• Balisuso/Balisungsong/Talulo Rice – Balisungsong, also known as balisuso, is cone-shaped steamed rice wrapped in banana leaves. In Bulacan, it is usually served on special occasions such as birthdays, fiestas, and weddings.

• Longganisang Calumpit – Calumpit's signature garlicky longganisa. The town holds an annual Longganisang Calumpit Festival. It can be bought at several markets in Calumpit, Apalit, and Malolos.

• Bringhe ng Tagumpay – According to Bulacan food historians Ka Mila and Dez Bautista, bringhe was Bulacan's victory dish. During the Spanish era, it was customary to serve it whenever a battle was won. That is why this rice dish is called "Bringhe ng Tagumpay" (Bringhe of Victory).

• Nilagang Pasko – A variation of the classic nilaga, given a festive seasonal flavor, traditionally prepared as the centerpiece of celebratory gatherings during the Christmas season. This heirloom dish originated in Malolos, Bulacan, as food for household helpers and laborers. It was born from the scraps of meat and leftovers after homeowners had picked out the choice cuts…

Is the water refill station thing right? What do you all think?

International e-sports CEO publicly criticizes Meralco's suspicious-looking "other charges"

Harmful carbon monoxide spreading to southern Philippines

A person who can't be fixed

The lion invading the tiger's personal space…

Philippine 🇵🇭 Airline Cabin Crew

I read an article about the pay structure for cabin crew at Philippine Airlines (PAL).

PAL - The national airline. Headquarters in Pasay City.

Entry level: 30,000 to 40,000 pesos per month. In US dollars, that's $472 to $630 per month.

The highest pay for senior cabin crew is 60,000 to 80,000 pesos…roughly $1,000 to $1,200 per month.

For comparison, United Airlines pays $38.21 per flight hour…with a minimum base salary of $46,000 per year.
The top tier is $105,000 to $120,000.

It's been decades since I last flew PAL….

17 Private Hospitals in Pampanga Sign PhilHealth "No Balance Billing" Agreement — Eliminating Out-of-Pocket Costs for Ward Admissions

📌 On Friday, October 23, 17 private hospitals in San Fernando City, Pampanga, signed a "No Balance Billing (NBB)" implementation agreement with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Department of Health (DOH). Under this program, PhilHealth covers the eligible medical costs when PhilHealth members are admitted to the general ward accommodations of these hospitals, so patients do not have to pay anything out of their own pocket.

■ What Changes
· The signing ceremony was held at the Kings Borough International Convention Center in San Fernando City, attended by Health Secretary Ted Herbosa...

Tribal leader killed in ambush in Maguindanao del Sur — 41st since 2013

📌 On Saturday, October 17, a man who was a Teduray tribal leader and barangay councilor was killed in an armed ambush in Barangay Mantao, Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao del Sur, Mindanao. He is the 41st Teduray tribal leader to be killed since 2013, and none of the previous cases have been solved.

■ Incident Details
· The slain leader was on his way home from Upi, Maguindanao del Norte, riding a motorcycle with three other tribesmen when they were ambushed. He was killed at the scene.
· The attackers fled on motorcycles.
· The slain leader was also known in the area as a peace advocate.

■ Investigation and Current Status
· The perpetrators have not yet been identified. The Maguindanao del Sur Police and the 6th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army each issued statements.
· According to Mindanao Voices, tribal members believe the continued killings are aimed at driving the tribe off their ancestral land, which is suitable for farm development, and peace groups have called for a joint investigation by the local government, police, and military.

■ Notice for Residents and Travelers
· If you plan to visit the inland areas of Mindanao, check your embassy's safety advisories and local police guidance first.
· Avoid traveling on remote roads after dark, and let others know your travel route.

■ Sources
Mindanao Voices (10/20), Philstar Inquirer (10/20)

Man, 30, Stabbed to Death in Cauayan, Negros Occidental After Argument Over Lottery Results

📌 On Saturday, October 17, a 30-year-old man was stabbed to death in Barangay Guiljungan, Cauayan, Negros Occidental, after an argument over the results of a small-town lottery (STL) draw. The 35-year-old suspect fled but was arrested after a police manhunt.

■ Incident Details
· The argument began when the victim questioned the suspect, who was reportedly taking STL bets, about the results of a recent draw.
· Both men pulled out knives, and the suspect stabbed the victim in the back, causing a wound that pierced through to the chest.
· The victim was taken to a local hospital in Cauayan but died during treatment.
· Digicast Negros reported that the incident occurred around 4 p.m. and that bystanders initially tried to separate the two men.

■ Investigation and Current Status
· Cauayan police arrested the suspect through a tracking operation and are preparing charges.
· According to Negros Now Daily, police said personal grudges were the motive for the attack.

■ Notice for Residents and Travelers
· If arguments over money or gambling escalate, step away and seek help from the barangay office or the police.
· If you see a weapon, keep your distance and report the situation rather than intervening directly.

■ Sources
Digicast Negros (10/18), Negros Now Daily (10/20)

49-Year-Old Seaman Swept Away by Currents While Fishing Off Sagay Coast, Negros Occidental, Dies

📌 At around 8 a.m. on Tuesday, October 20, a 49-year-old seaman was swept away by sudden rising water and strong currents while fishing close to shore off Purok Suyak in Barangay Taba-ao, Sagay City, Negros Occidental, and died. A 32-year-old companion who was with him swam back to shore.

■ How the Incident Happened
· The two men were fishing close to the shore when the water suddenly rose and they were caught in strong currents.
· The companion managed to swim out, but the 49-year-old man was pushed into deeper water and drowned.
· Residents immediately launched a search, found the man, and handed him over to the Sagay City Bantay Dagat (sea patrol).

■ Current Status
· The man was taken to the Alfredo E. Marañon Sr. Memorial District Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
· The body is awaiting autopsy in the hospital morgue, and Sagay police are looking into the circumstances.

■ Notes for Residents and Travelers
· Before going into the sea, check the tide schedule (high tide times), and do not stay near the shore when the water is coming in.
· Do not go fishing or swimming in the sea alone, and always bring a life vest.

■ Sources
Digicast Negros (10/21), Negros Now Daily (10/22)

26-year-old inmate dies after electrocution while bathing at Argao Jail in Cebu — family requests autopsy

📌 On the evening of Tuesday, October 20, a 26-year-old inmate at the Argao Jail in Cebu Province was taken to the hospital after being electrocuted while bathing in the restroom. He was pronounced dead. The family has requested an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death, and police are investigating the circumstances.

■ Incident Details
· The electrocution occurred at around 7:35 p.m. Another inmate who witnessed it called for help.
· The on-duty jail guard cut the power, and together with the other inmates, pulled the man out of the restroom and administered CPR and oxygen.
· The man was taken to the hospital at around 7:55 p.m. and was pronounced dead at 8:16 p.m.

■ Investigation and Current Status
· The Argao Police Station is investigating the case and taking statements from other inmates who may have seen what happened.
· The results of the autopsy requested by the family have not yet been released.

■ Notes for Residents and Travelers
· If electrical equipment such as water heaters or outlets in the bathroom is old or wet, do not use it and report it to the manager.
· If you see someone who has been electrocuted, do not touch them with bare hands. First cut the power, then rescue them.

■ Source
Bombo Radyo Cebu (10/22)

■ Photo
· Entrance to the male inmate housing block at Argao Jail — Bombo Radyo Cebu

Police officer arrested in Muntinlupa for murder of jeepney driver and extortion of protection money

📌 On Monday, October 19, a police officer accused of killing a jeepney driver in Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila, was arrested on a murder warrant. The officer was also identified as a key figure in extortion, collecting a "butaw" protection payment from jeepney drivers every time they ran their routes.

■ Incident Details
· The jeepney driver was killed on Sunday, June 7, 2026, on the Katihan Bridge in Barangay Poblacion, Muntinlupa City.
· The arrested person is Sergeant Edwin Figueroa, who was assigned to the Regional Internal Affairs Service (RIAS) of the Philippine National Police in Metro Manila.
· The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) stated that its investigation identified this officer as playing a central role in extorting protection payments from jeepney drivers for every trip.

■ Investigation and Current Status
· The warrant was issued for murder by Branch 204 of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Muntinlupa, and it was served by Muntinlupa police.
· Administrative complaints for grave misconduct and other violations, filed by the family of the slain driver and jeepney drivers together with the transport group Manibela, are being handled separately from the criminal trial at NAPOLCOM.
· NAPOLCOM Commissioner Rafael Calinisan commended the Muntinlupa police, and the PNP said it will intensify crackdowns on so-called "kotong" police, who extort money from motorists.

■ Notes for Residents and Travelers
· If an officer demands money under the pretext of enforcement, record the officer's name, rank, unit, time, and place, and report it to NAPOLCOM or police internal affairs.
· In such situations, prioritize your safety rather than arguing on the spot.

■ Sources
Daily Tribune (10/21), The Chronicle (10/22)

Suspect Linked to Chinese Kidnapping Case Arrested in Santa Maria, Isabela

📌 On Tuesday, October 20, a fugitive linked to a kidnapping case involving Chinese nationals was arrested by the Philippine National Police Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG) in Santa Maria, Isabela, in Northern Luzon. The suspect was ranked No. 6 on the AKG's most wanted list and was apprehended under a warrant that does not allow bail.

■ Details of the Arrest
· The AKG Luzon field unit arrested the suspect in Santa Maria on Tuesday, October 20 (Daily Tribune reported coordination with the Santa Maria Police Station, while PSBalita reported coordination with the Police Regional Office 2 and its intelligence group, among others).
· The warrant was issued by Branch 266 of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Taguig City, and bail is not allowed.
· According to PSBalita, the charges are kidnapping for ransom with homicide and violation of the Anti-Carnapping Act of 2016. The warrant was issued on March 5, 2026.
· Daily Tribune reported that the suspect is 26 years old.

■ Original Case
· Reports differ. Daily Tribune said the suspect was linked to a case in which two Chinese nationals were kidnapped, while PSBalita reported a connection to a May 2025 case in which one Chinese national was kidnapped and killed.
· The exact time and specific location of the arrest have not been disclosed.

■ Notes for Residents and Travelers
· If you are kidnapped, threatened, or suspect that you are in danger, call 911 or contact the nearest police station immediately.
· If a stranger invites you to a remote location for a business proposal or meeting, do not go. Let family or colleagues know your schedule and location.

■ Sources
Daily Tribune (10/24 — age confirmed by one source), PSBalita (10/22 — charges and warrant date confirmed by one source)

■ Photo
· Official police booking photo (face and name blurred) — Daily Tribune

Armed gunmen shoot dead 3, injure 2 near Cotabato City fish pond — 3 killed and 2 seriously injured in gunfire near a fish pond in Cotabato City, Mindanao

📌 On the morning of Friday, October 23, gunmen armed with rifles opened fire near a fish pond close to Timako Hill in Barangay Kalanganan 2, Cotabato City, Mindanao. Three people were killed and two were seriously wounded. It was the second shooting in the city in as many days, following an ambush on Philippine Coast Guard personnel the day before. The attackers fled in a vehicle.

■ Incident details
· Armed men attacked the victims with rifles while they were near the fish pond. Three victims suffered multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene.
· Barangay officials took the two wounded persons to a medical center in the Cotabato region.
· Bulgar, citing the Bangsamoro regional police office (PRO-BAR), reported that the shooting happened at around 7:40 a.m. The victims were meeting a counterpart to conduct a business transaction, and three men who got out of a white Toyota Hilux opened fire. Among the dead was a 53-year-old businessman.

■ Investigation and current status
· According to barangay officials, the gunmen fled in a white pickup truck (Toyota Hilux), and no arrests have been made.
· Police and local officials are working to identify the perpetrators. The motive has not been confirmed; Bulgar reported that investigators are looking into a long-running family feud and possible business extortion.
· On the afternoon of Thursday, October 22, a vehicle carrying Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel was also ambushed in Cotabato City.

■ Notes for residents and travelers
· Shootings have been occurring repeatedly in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), including Cotabato City. Limit visits to essential trips and check safety advisories from your embassy and local authorities.
· Conduct transactions or meetings with people you do not know in crowded, public places rather than in remote areas.

■ Sources
Philstar (10/23, 10/24); Bulgar (10/24 — the time and circumstances of the meeting were confirmed by one source)

■ Photos
· Scientific investigation unit (SOCO) examining the shooting scene — Philstar