Thanksgiving Travel Faces Potential Disruptions from Dual Storm Systems

As millions of Americans prepare for what is expected to be one of the busiest Thanksgiving travel periods in recent years, forecasters warn that two developing storm systems may pose significant challenges to travelers. Nearly 82 million people are anticipated to travel by road and air, raising concerns that adverse weather could exacerbate congestion at critical transportation hubs. The first storm is projected to develop on Monday, moving slowly across the southern Plains before bringing moisture into the Southeast. This system is expected to produce persistent rainfall from Texas through Georgia, potentially causing delays at major airports such as Dallas Fort Worth and Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental. Although the storm’s trajectory northward remains uncertain, early forecasts indicate the mid-Atlantic and Northeast could experience unsettled weather coinciding with peak travel times. Travel experts highlight that Tuesday afternoon—typically one of the busiest travel periods on U.S. highways—might see worsening congestion if heavy rain occurs along key interstate routes from Mississippi to the Carolinas. Such delays on roads and in the air could quickly compound, particularly as airports brace for record passenger numbers. Simultaneously, a second weather system is expected to enter the Pacific Northwest, bringing rain, cooler temperatures, and the initial signs of winter to that area. By midweek, the storm will move toward the Rockies and central U.S., potentially causing rain on Thanksgiving morning from Missouri to Texas. Should colder air follow the system, some communities might witness the season’s first snowfall, although widespread precipitation is predicted to remain primarily rain. Despite these early-week disturbances, meteorologists suggest that Thanksgiving Day itself should be largely clear across much of the country. Regions including the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Southeast are forecasted to enjoy dry conditions, offering relief to travelers attending holiday events such as New York’s famed turkey-balloon parade. Some cities may even experience a brief spell of unseasonably warm weather before colder temperatures settle in for December. Experts emphasize, however, that uncertainties remain high concerning the detailed paths of these storms. They advise travelers to monitor up-to-date weather reports closely as conditions continue to evolve throughout the holiday week.

Philippine Stock Market Climbs Amid Expectations of December Rate Cut by BSP

Philippine equities experienced gains on Wednesday, propelled by bargain-hunting and optimism surrounding a possible policy rate reduction by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) later this year. Investors anticipate that a lower rate could stimulate economic growth amidst a backdrop of slowing domestic consumption. The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) advanced by 0.99%, adding 57.05 points to close at 5,813.71. Meanwhile, the broader PSE all-share index increased by 0.62% or 20.29 points, finishing at 3,251.84. Luis A. Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Corp., noted in a Viber message that "the local market ended the day higher, driven primarily by bargain-hunting." He further observed that "investor sentiment improved following signals from the BSP about a potential rate cut before year-end, which encouraged buying activity." BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. indicated the possibility of a modest 25-basis-point reduction when the Monetary Board meets on December 11. Since August 2024, the central bank has trimmed borrowing costs by a total of 175 basis points, bringing the benchmark interest rate down to 4.75%, the lowest level in more than three years. These rate cuts reflect the central bank's response to slowing economic growth, contained inflation, and declining investor confidence triggered by a recent flood control corruption scandal that dampened business sentiment and domestic spending. AP Securities, Inc. remarked in a market commentary that "the market continued its gradual ascent and is currently at short-term resistance, supported by local equity purchases while investors await Nvidia Corp.'s earnings results, which could signal the trajectory for US markets." In contrast, US stock indices slipped, with major benchmarks falling below key technical thresholds for the first time since April amid caution ahead of upcoming retail and semiconductor earnings reports and a postponed jobs data release. Domestically, sectoral performance was largely positive: Financials climbed 1.77% to 1,932.09, industrials rose 1.55% to 8,517.88, holding firms gained 1.13% to 4,534.39, property increased 0.43% to 2,118.71, and services inched up 0.07% to 2,362.88. The mining and oil sector was the lone decliner, down 0.47% to 12,765.5. Market breadth favored advancers, with 112 stocks higher against 61 decliners; 67 remained unchanged. Value turnover slightly decreased to PHP 6.23 billion on 886.24 million shares, compared to PHP 6.67 billion on 1.15 billion shares the previous session. Net foreign selling moderated to PHP 915.4 million from PHP 1.31 billion. The gradual recovery in the PSEi underscores increasing investor confidence that further monetary easing by the BSP could reduce borrowing costs, invigorate spending, and stabilize business outlooks, despite ongoing concerns regarding global market volatility and lingering domestic corruption issues.

Philippine Stock Exchange Index Advances Amid Bargain Buying While Peso Weakens

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) continued its upward momentum on Thursday, buoyed by bargain hunting, as it rose 2.01 percent to close at 5,930.81 points. The broader All Shares index also gained 2.56 percent, settling at 3,335.02 points. Most sectoral indices recorded positive performances, led by the Property sector, which surged 2.82 percent. This was followed by Financials at 2.64 percent, Holding Firms at 1.38 percent, Industrials at 1.22 percent, and Services at 1.13 percent. The only sector to experience a decline was Mining and Oil, which dropped 0.49 percent. Trading volume reached 1.74 billion shares, with a total value of PHP15.69 billion. Advancing stocks outnumbered decliners 96 to 72, while 66 shares remained unchanged. Luis Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Corporation, attributed the index's rise to increased buying activity. He remarked, \"The rally was fueled by renewed investor confidence following indications from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) suggesting further rate cuts before year-end. Additionally, the removal of agricultural tariffs and the government's intent to negotiate reductions on tariffs for non-exempt goods have positively influenced market sentiment.\" Conversely, the Philippine peso weakened against the US dollar, closing at 59.06 to the dollar from the previous day's 58.93. Michael Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), explained that the peso's depreciation partially reflected the strengthening US dollar after the release of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) minutes from their October 28-29 meeting. The minutes indicated the Federal Reserve may hold interest rates steady for the remainder of the year due to labor market and inflation concerns. The local currency traded in a range between 59.00 and 59.11 throughout the day, starting and ending near the upper bound. The total foreign exchange turnover declined to USD1.08 billion from USD1.39 billion reported the previous day. Ricafort projected the peso's next key resistance level at 59.20, with initial supply pressure anticipated at 59.00. These market developments underscore cautious optimism among investors, balancing favorable local policy moves with external factors influencing currency dynamics.

Philippine Peso Weakens Amid Hawkish Fed Minutes; Dollar Strengthens Against Yen

The Philippine peso depreciated against the US dollar on Thursday after the Federal Reserve’s recent policy meeting minutes diminished expectations for an interest rate reduction next month. The peso ended the day at P59.065 per dollar, a decline of 13 centavos from Wednesday’s close of P58.935, according to data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines. Although the peso opened stronger at P59, it dropped to an intraday low of P59.11. Dollar trading volume also declined to $1.08 billion from $1.39 billion the previous day. One trader noted via phone that the peso’s decline reflected the dollar’s overall strength after the release of the Fed’s hawkish minutes. "Market participants have scaled back expectations for a rate cut in December," the trader said. Another market expert pointed out that the minutes revealed a split among Fed officials over the October policy meeting, casting doubt on the likelihood of easing monetary policy next month. Analysts emphasized that the Fed remains concerned about persistent inflation and continues to stress the importance of maintaining flexibility in its policy approach. Concurrently, the US dollar strengthened against the Japanese yen, reaching a peak of ¥157.78 late in the Asian session—the highest level since January. The yen’s depreciation accelerated following Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama’s remarks that there was no specific discussion about foreign exchange at a recent meeting with Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda. Despite some stabilization during European trading hours, the yen remains approximately 6% weaker since the election of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi as leader of Japan’s ruling party last month. The yen’s decline persists even amid rising Japanese bond yields, reflecting investor unease over the significant borrowing required to support Ms. Takaichi’s stimulus initiatives. Vishnu Varathan, Mizuho’s head of research for Asia, commented, "One must either accept a narrative of selling Japan or believe that traditional relationships, such as the US-Japan interest rate differential and currency valuations, are no longer stable." Traders anticipate possible intervention by Japanese authorities near the ¥160 per dollar level to curb sudden currency moves. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara described recent market fluctuations as "sharp, one-sided, and concerning." Looking ahead, some market participants expect the Philippine peso could strengthen if upcoming US labor data disappoints. Price targets vary, with one trader projecting a range between P58.90 and P59.20 per dollar, while another forecasts P58.90 to P59.15. The Federal Reserve has reduced borrowing costs twice this year during an easing cycle initiated in September 2024, bringing the benchmark rate to 3.75%-4%. Initially, investors anticipated a possible rate cut in December; however, the tone of the latest minutes has prompted a reassessment of this outlook.

Karl Eldrew Yulo Embraces Positivity Ahead of Junior World Gymnastics Championships

Karl Eldrew Yulo entered the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships at Newport World Resorts’ Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay with a clear mindset, buoyed by guidance from his Japanese coach, Munehiro Kugimiya. Just before competing, the 18-year-old athlete recalled Kugimiya's advice to maintain happiness and avoid self-imposed pressure.\n\n"He told me to just be happy, enjoy and not pressure myself too much," Yulo shared. "I need to be happy whatever happens, and I’m going to make sure it will all turn out good."\n\nYulo participated last night, targeting a slot in the individual all-around finals scheduled for tomorrow, as well as apparatus finals set for Sunday and Monday.\n\nReflecting on his development during the five months training under Kugimiya in Japan, Yulo noted significant improvement. "I’m completely different before I trained under him and now because I learned so many skills," he said. "I still have some inconsistencies but I consider myself at 100 percent."\n\nConfident in his abilities, Yulo expressed optimism about excelling particularly in the floor exercise, high bar, and vault events.

Typhoon Tino Inflicts Nearly P2 Billion in Damage across Negros Occidental

Typhoon Tino has left widespread devastation throughout Negros Occidental, with total reported damages reaching approximately P1.98 billion, according to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Council (PDRRMC). The storm severely affected infrastructure, agriculture, housing, and the education sector. The Sugar Regulatory Administration reported that around 53,000 hectares of sugarcane fields suffered flood damage, impacting 17,000 farmers. The agricultural losses include an estimated minimum of 500,000 bags of raw sugar and 9,000 tons of molasses, totaling P1.26 billion. These figures exclude damages to farm equipment and sugar mills. As of November 20, the PDRRMC assessed infrastructure damages at P1.5 billion, agricultural losses at over P303 million, and education-related damages including facilities at roughly P173 million. Nearly one million residents were affected by the typhoon, especially in central local government units, where 96 people lost their lives and 40 remained missing. The disaster also destroyed 19,862 homes and partially damaged 180,823 houses. Authorities have declared certain flood-prone riverbank areas in Hinigaran and Moises Padilla as "no build zones," potentially preventing over 500 families from returning to their original residences. Hinigaran's Mayor Mary Grace Arceo disclosed the identification of an 11-hectare relocation site in Sitio Acacia, Barangay Gargato, designed to accommodate over 200 displaced families. Meanwhile, a one-hectare donated land in Moises Padilla is earmarked for the relocation of more than 300 affected families. The educational sector also suffered significant setbacks. Thirteen schools were destroyed, and 1,070 classrooms require repairs. Additionally, 24,779 damaged armchairs have been reported. The Negros Occidental Schools Division documented seven fatalities among students, teaching, and non-teaching personnel, nine individuals missing, and 767 injured due to the typhoon. The prolonged recovery efforts prompt ongoing humanitarian and rehabilitation initiatives to support displaced families and rebuild critical infrastructure across the province.

Philippine Economy Demonstrates Resilience Amid Challenges, Growth Forecast Remains Positive

The Philippine economy continues to show strength despite facing recent governance issues and global uncertainties, Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan stated on Thursday, November 20, 2025. He emphasized the country’s solid macroeconomic foundation and persistent reform efforts as key drivers of this resilience. Balisacan reported that economic growth slowed to four percent in the third quarter, resulting in a year-to-date growth average of five percent. Nevertheless, he affirmed that the economy’s overall outlook remains stable. International organizations project an average growth rate of 5.7 percent for the Philippines in 2026. "Our economy remains anchored by sound macroeconomic fundamentals, including steady growth, declining inflation, a robust labor market, manageable fiscal deficit and public debt, a stable currency, and a strong banking sector," Balisacan explained in a press release. He further highlighted structural advantages such as a youthful workforce, consistent investment inflows, and increases in productivity, which collectively support a potential annual growth rate of at least six percent. The medium-term goals set forth in the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028 remain on track. The economic team plans to implement a combination of fiscal, monetary, financial, technological, and social-protection strategies to sustain growth in line with its potential. This approach also aims to safeguard the economy from future environmental, technological, and geopolitical challenges. Balisacan pointed to recent legislative achievements, including the passage of the Public-Private Partnership Code, the Konektadong Pinoy Act, the Create More law, and the Arrow Act. These measures are designed to enhance infrastructure development, expand market accessibility, and improve national competitiveness. In addition, the government continues to pursue structural reforms outlined in the 20th Congress’ Common Legislative Agenda. Efforts to strengthen human capital through education, healthcare, skills training, and social protection are also being intensified. To maximize the impact of government spending, Balisacan’s department is prioritizing enhanced planning, budgeting, and project evaluation processes to ensure resources are allocated efficiently to high-impact programs.

Roman Era Gold Coins Stolen in Lausanne Museum Heist

Authorities in Lausanne reported the theft of numerous Roman gold coins from the Roman Museum earlier this week. According to police, the incident occurred on Tuesday just before closing time when two individuals, who had entered the museum after purchasing tickets, overpowered the sole security guard on duty. "The suspects attacked and subdued the guard, forced open a secured display case, and took multiple gold coins before escaping," officials stated. The 64-year-old security guard promptly activated the museum's panic alarm, prompting a swift law enforcement response. While the guard remains unharmed, the perpetrators are still at large. Police are conducting a detailed inventory to establish the precise number and identity of the stolen artifacts. Experts emphasized the archaeological significance of the stolen coins, though their financial value has not yet been determined. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to recover the missing items.

PAGASA Warns of Potential Tropical Depression "Verbena" Approaching Southern Mindanao

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported on Sunday that a low pressure area (LPA) located east of Southern Mindanao carries a moderate probability of evolving into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours. Once intensified, the system is expected to be named "Verbena." According to PAGASA weather specialist Obet Badrina, the disturbance was last tracked approximately 1,130 kilometers east of Southern Mindanao as of 3 a.m. Sunday. Although the system currently remains outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), it is anticipated to enter the monitoring zone later in the day. Badrina highlighted that the storm could potentially impact a large portion of Visayas and Southern Luzon. Even prior to its possible upgrade, the trough associated with the LPA is already causing cloudy conditions accompanied by scattered rain showers and thunderstorms in several regions, including Northern Mindanao, Caraga, Davao Region, Eastern Visayas, and Bohol. Authorities have issued advisories regarding the risk of flash floods and landslides in these areas due to moderate to occasionally heavy rainfall. PAGASA's heavy rainfall forecast warns of 50 to 100 millimeters of rain expected on Monday across multiple provinces such as Northern Samar, Samar, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Biliran, Southern Leyte, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Misamis Oriental, and Camiguin. For Tuesday, November 25, predicted precipitation increases, with Northern Samar and Eastern Samar projected to receive between 100 and 200 millimeters. Additional regions in Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Northern Mindanao are also likely to experience moderate to heavy rainfall ranging from 50 to 100 millimeters. Residents in the affected areas are urged to remain vigilant and prepare for potential weather disruptions as Verbena approaches.

Suspected International Drug Syndicate Member Sentenced to Life Imprisonment in the Philippines

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — A Chinese-Malaysian national accused of membership in a global drug trafficking organization has been handed a life sentence for possessing methamphetamine with an estimated street value of P10 billion, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) announced. Judge Michael Real of the Olongapo Regional Trial Court Branch 98 found Kong Ket Koon guilty of violating Republic Act 9165, known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. According to PDEA, Kong is affiliated with Sam Gor, an international drug syndicate believed to be responsible for the large-scale disposal of methamphetamine in bodies of water near Bataan, Batanes, Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and Pangasinan. Authorities apprehended Kong on June 20 after discovering his fishing vessel loaded with methamphetamine worth approximately P10 billion in Subic, Zambales. Apart from the life sentence, the court imposed a P10 million fine on Kong and ordered the forfeiture of his fishing boat to the government. PDEA Chief Isagani Nerez praised the swift judicial process, describing the conviction as a significant milestone in the government’s campaign against international narcotics trafficking. He emphasized that prompt and decisive court rulings are crucial to bolstering public confidence in the justice system.