National

Trump’s Tariffs Impacting Filipino Products

Published

2 months ago

April 7, 2025

Filman

You don’t expect sticker shock at your local Filipino grocery store. But when a jar of macapuno or ube suddenly costs $8 to $10, you start asking questions.

That’s the reality many Asian American families are facing as President Donald Trump’s new tariffs—ranging from 10% to as high as 46%—take effect. Products from Asia, including food staples and cultural items, are becoming more expensive, directly impacting daily life and identity.

“It’s cheaper to stay home and make root beer floats,” one shopper joked, skipping the now-pricey imported Filipino goods. But for many, this isn’t just about saving money. It’s about staying connected to their roots, their culture, and their families through food and tradition.

The pain is real—and it’s not just felt in the checkout line.

Across the country, protests erupted this weekend, from Boston to Sacramento, as tens of thousands took to the streets to decry the administration’s policies, including the tariff war. Signs read: “Tariffs Cost Us Trillions in Two Days!”—a reference to the $6.6 trillion stock market loss following trade-related announcements.

The economic burden goes beyond consumers. Asian American small businesses—restaurants, grocery stores, importers—are struggling too. Higher import costs make it harder for them to stay afloat and compete, affecting jobs and livelihoods in local communities.

While some lawmakers, even Republicans like Sen. Ted Cruz, are starting to push back, calling the strategy “terrible for America,” Trump presses forward. Economists have criticized the rationale behind the tariffs, calling it outdated and based on flawed trade math that ignores America’s strengths in services.

Meanwhile, countries like China and Vietnam have retaliated with their own tariffs. As global trade tensions escalate, the U.S. risks isolating itself and damaging long-term economic prospects.

For many Asian Americans, these aren’t just numbers—they’re lived experiences. It’s the rising cost of that special sauce for pancit, the specific rice your grandmother used, or the electronics that bring your family closer together.

These tariffs aren’t just about economics. They’re cultural. They’re personal.

And as prices rise and traditions grow harder to maintain, many are asking: What now?

The answer may lie in the growing people’s movement—ordinary Americans pushing back against policies that harm families and communities. Because when economic decisions start to erode identity, it’s no longer just about politics—it’s about who we are, and how we live.

News credit to: INQUIRER.NET

Entertainment

SB19 Makes History with a Two-Night Kickoff for Simula at Wakas — A Celebration of Music, Milestones, and the Power of A’TIN

Published

2 weeks ago

June 2, 2025

News Team

Tabloid lights and fan chants thundered across the Philippine Arena as SB19 launched their much-anticipated Simula at Wakas World Tour with back-to-back sold-out concerts on May 31 and June 1, 2025. The event marked the official release of their latest EP, Simula at Wakas, the final chapter in their celebrated trilogy following Pagsibol and Pagtatag!

A Grand Opening Like No Other
Night 1 of the tour sold out in just under seven hours—an incredible feat that made SB19 the first Filipino act to do so at the iconic Philippine Arena. Due to overwhelming demand, a second show was added, giving thousands more fans the chance to witness history unfold live. The two-night spectacle wasn’t just a concert—it was a statement: SB19 is here to dominate, not just in P-pop, but on a global stage.

A’TIN: The Heartbeat of the Movement
The success of the kickoff would not have been possible without A’TIN, SB19’s passionate and ever-creative fandom. Known for going above and beyond, A’TIN once again proved why they’re one of the most powerful fanbases in Asia.

From city-wide poster runs to digital billboards, fan-made trailers, radio ads, countdown threads, and even coffee shop collabs—A’TIN mobilized across platforms and cities to spread the word. Fan-led initiatives weren’t just promotional; they were celebrations of love and loyalty that mirrored the group’s own devotion to their craft.

Some fans traveled across provinces (and even countries) just to attend the concert. Others distributed lightsticks and freebies at the venue, coordinated chants, and organized charity drives in honor of the tour. A’TIN didn’t just support the event—they amplified it.

A Sonic and Emotional Journey
Simula at Wakas is a sonic exploration of beginnings and endings, vulnerability and ambition. The EP features seven tracks:

“DAM”
“Time”
“8TonBall”
“Quit”
“Shooting for the Stars”
“DUNGKA!”
“DAM (Extended Version)”

During the concert, SB19 delivered powerhouse performances that left fans in awe—from the hard-hitting energy of “DAM” to the emotional resonance of “DUNGKA!” Each member showcased growth, both vocally and in stage presence, proving why SB19 continues to raise the bar for what it means to be an artist in today’s landscape.

The Global Stage Awaits
Following the Philippine leg, SB19 is set to bring Simula at Wakas to fans across the globe, with stops in Taiwan, the U.S., Canada, Singapore, and the Middle East. The group’s evolution, paired with the unrelenting passion of A’TIN, ensures that this world tour is more than a performance—it’s a global cultural moment.

In a world of noise, SB19 and A’TIN remind us what happens when music meets purpose, and when fans become family.
From the simula to the wakas, the journey is unforgettable—and it’s only just begun.

Photo source: SB19 official page

Entertainment

Freddie Aguilar, Filipino Music Legend, Passes Away at 72

Published

3 weeks ago

May 28, 2025

News Team

Freddie Aguilar, the iconic Filipino folk musician and one of the most influential figures in Original Pilipino Music (OPM), passed away on May 27, 2025, at the age of 72. His death was confirmed by multiple news outlets, including The Economic Times and GMA News.

A Voice for the People
Born Ferdinand Pascual Aguilar on February 5, 1953, in Santo Tomas, Isabela, Aguilar rose to fame with his 1978 hit “Anak,” a poignant ballad that resonated with audiences worldwide. The song sold over 33 million copies and was translated into 51 languages, making it the best-selling Philippine music record of all time.

Beyond “Anak,” Aguilar’s music often tackled themes of poverty, social injustice, and national identity. His rendition of “Bayan Ko” became an anthem for the opposition during the 1986 People Power Revolution, cementing his role as a voice for the marginalized.

A Lasting Legacy
Aguilar’s influence extended beyond music. He was a cultural icon whose work inspired generations of Filipinos to embrace their heritage and advocate for social change. His contributions to music and society have left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.

Remembering Ka Freddie
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from fans and fellow artists alike, honoring Aguilar’s immense contribution to Philippine music and culture. He is survived by his wife and children, including daughter Maegan Aguilar, who had publicly reconciled with her father in recent years.

Freddie Aguilar’s music will continue to inspire and resonate, ensuring that his legacy endures for generations to come.

National

Rodante Marcoleta Clinches Senate Seat in 2025 Philippine Elections

Published

1 month ago

May 14, 2025

News Team

Photo credit: Politiko

Sagip Party-list Representative Rodante Marcoleta has secured a seat in the Philippine Senate following the 2025 midterm elections, marking a significant milestone in his political career. Known for his staunch conservative stance and alignment with former President Rodrigo Duterte, Marcoleta’s victory underscores the enduring influence of Duterte’s political allies in the country’s legislative landscape.

Marcoleta’s ascent to the Senate comes after a notable performance in pre-election surveys, where he consistently ranked among the top candidates. His campaign, bolstered by endorsements from key political figures, resonated with voters seeking continuity in governance and policy direction.

A vocal advocate for various legislative measures, Marcoleta has been recognized for his unwavering positions on national issues. His tenure in the House of Representatives was marked by active participation in debates and a commitment to his constituents’ concerns.

With his transition to the Senate, Marcoleta is expected to further his legislative agenda, focusing on policies that align with his platform and the interests of his supporters. His election contributes to the composition of a Senate that reflects a blend of experienced lawmakers and new entrants, setting the stage for dynamic legislative sessions ahead.

Note: The official proclamation of winning senators by the Commission on Elections is anticipated in the coming days, following the completion of vote canvassing.

Election Poll news info credit: GMA Network