Pulso ng Bansa

Francisco Motors Corporation  (FMC) is one of the country's pioneering jeepney builders. Over the years, FMC transitioned from refurbishing war-era jeeps to designing its iconic models, including its modern electric jeepney launched around 2018. FMC’s modern electric jeep costs around ₱985,000/unit— far cheaper than government-endorsed modern jeepneys priced between ₱1.3 and 3 million. 85% locally built (body, motor, chassis); batteries still imported, but for the first 1000 units only. These modern jeeps are designed with urban routes in mind, offering a 150 km range (approximately five trips) and utilizing 50 kWh batteries, which can be charged via the CCS2 standard. As add-on options, the package includes modern features: AC, CCTV, GPS, cashless fares, wheelchair ramps for PWDs, speed limiters, and emergency exits—while keeping the classic jeepney aesthetic. Although FMC produces affordable, culturally resonant units, several obstacles hinder its inclusion in the governmen...

  Despite its prime location along the Guimaras Strait, Bacolod and its surrounding cities, such as Talisay, Silay, and Bago lack truly swimmable beaches. Here's why: Muddy Coastlines – The beaches closer to Bacolod tend to be brown, muddy, and littered with seagrass due to mangrove-rich deltas and river outlets. Industrial Activity – Coastal areas near the city are heavily used for fishing ports, aquaculture, and industry, not recreation. Poor Waste Management – Inadequate coastal clean-up and water treatment lead to polluted shores. Lack of Investment – Very few serious tourism developments or resort investments have been made near the city, unlike the south, where private eco-resorts thrive.   What Should Be Done to Add More Tourist Beach Destinations Near Bacolod? The lack of local swimmable beaches poses a huge opportunity. With the right strategy and sustainable planning, nearby areas can also be developed f...

  The Filipino rock scene, particularly the '90s era of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) bands, has seen its fair share of controversies, but few have been as drawn-out and emotionally charged as the feud between Siakol, its splinter group Repakol, and former lead vocalist and chief songwriter Noel Palomo. Siakol was formed in the mid-1990s and quickly rose to prominence with their raw, relatable lyrics and catchy melodies. The band was known for its street-smart takes on everyday Filipino life, often delivered with humor and grit. Key hits like “Lakas Tama,” “Gabay,” “Tropa,” “Inuman Na,” and “Bakit Ba Ganyan” cemented their status as a staple in the OPM rock canon. The creative nucleus of Siakol revolved around Noel Palomo, the group's charismatic frontman and principal songwriter. While breakups in bands are not uncommon, what followed was a contentious fallout that continues to reverberate in the OPM community. The most significant point of contention? The continued use ...