Manila, Philippines — The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has released updated guidelines on the entry of temporary visitors, reaffirming the country’s visa-free access policy for short-term business and tourism travel. Nationals from 157 countries may enter the Philippines without a visa for a stay of up to 30 days, as long as they hold a return or onward ticket and a passport valid for at least six months beyond their planned stay. This policy is part of the government’s effort to keep travel smooth, secure, and welcoming for…
Read MoreCategory: General Interest
FSW Debt Counseling warns of financial risks during the holiday season
FSW Debt Counselling is calling for greater financial awareness in light of Black Friday and Cyber Monday discount campaigns. Every year, online shops in particular tempt shoppers with special discounts for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Clever marketing puts pressure on customers and often leads to impulsive purchases. FSW Debt Counselling is therefore urging caution. Advertising psychology tricks, such as claiming that there is only one product left or that a discount is limited in time, create enormous pressure among customers. “At this point, at the latest, customers should think…
Read MoreBehind the Cabin Curtain: 8 Secrets Airlines Would Rather You Didn’t Know
Most flights feel routine. You board, stash your bag, plug in your headphones, and trust the crew to handle the rest. But behind the calm voice of the captain and the tidy cabin, there is a world passengers rarely see. Airline employees know it well, and they tend to keep a few details quiet. Your headphones are not fresh out of the boxThe plastic wrapping misleads almost everyone. Those headsets were used by passengers on earlier flights. They are cleaned, checked, and sealed again. You might be flying with coffins…
Read MoreShared moments of happiness reduce stress hormones in couples
Moments of happiness as a couple can have a measurable positive effect on health: when older couples experience positive feelings together, their levels of the stress hormone cortisol decrease. This was reported by a team of researchers led by psychologist Tomiko Yoneda from the University of California, Davis, in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. “We know from numerous studies that positive emotions such as happiness, joy, love, and excitement are good for our health – they are even associated with a longer life,” explains Yoneda, according to a…
Read MoreThis many steps per day are enough for good health
More physical activity is definitely better than a sedentary lifestyle. But the old “unofficial” goal of 10,000 steps per day does not have to be achieved. An international team of scientists has found that the most critical positive health effects occur even with 7,000 steps a day: lower mortality, fewer cardiovascular diseases, and much more. “Although 10,000 steps per day may still be a feasible goal for those who are more active, 7,000 steps per day is associated with clinically significant improvements in health outcomes and may be a more…
Read MoreHow much does a trip through Europe cost? A practical overview
Europe, also known as the “old continent,” is for many the epitome of diversity. In a relatively small area, you’ll find an impressive mix of cultures, languages, landscapes, and culinary highlights. And the best part? You can travel from one country to the next in just a few hours, often quite easily by train, bus, or even bike. But before you set off, the big question arises: how much does it all cost? How much should you budget for a trip through Europe? Admittedly, Europe is not the cheapest continent,…
Read MoreSuperfood kiwi – how healthy is this fruit really?
Two kiwis a day – that’s the advice of an intestinal expert. The fruit not only stimulates digestion, but can also prevent disease. Several times a day or just twice a week? The regularity of your bowel movements can say something about your health. Fiber is particularly important for stimulating digestion. One disadvantage is that it can cause flatulence. Intestinal problems such as flatulence and constipation affect up to a third of the population. One fruit can be beneficial in this regard. Consuming fiber is often a vague recommendation and…
Read MoreCommentary on the Political Situation: Flood-Control Corruption in the Philippines
1. The Scale and Stakes of the Crisis In recent months, allegations of massive corruption in flood-control infrastructure have destabilized public trust in government. According to the Department of Finance, the Philippines may be losing as much as ₱118.5 billion annually (2023–2025) to fraudulent or poorly executed flood projects. Reports suggest that up to 70 percent of flood-budget allocations may be siphoned off through various irregularities. This is not just about misspent money. Climate-adaptation funds — funds meant to protect vulnerable communities from worsening typhoons and floods — are allegedly…
Read MoreHeating: What happens when you turn it off once a day
In recent days, many people have turned on their heating for the first time this year to warm up their homes. Especially if the utility bill for 2024, which tenants will receive in 2025, is high, it’s worth taking a look at the costs. The question of whether to turn off the heating at night to save money therefore seems quite logical at first glance Turn off the heating at night? These rules must be observed The myth is that turning off the heating at night saves money. After all,…
Read More