You plan to move to the Philippines? Wollen Sie auf den Philippinen leben?

There are REALLY TONS of websites telling us how, why, maybe why not and when you'll be able to move to the Philippines. I only love to tell and explain some things "between the lines". Enjoy reading, be informed, have fun and be entertained too!

Ja, es gibt tonnenweise Webseiten, die Ihnen sagen wie, warum, vielleicht warum nicht und wann Sie am besten auf die Philippinen auswandern könnten. Ich möchte Ihnen in Zukunft "zwischen den Zeilen" einige zusätzlichen Dinge berichten und erzählen. Viel Spass beim Lesen und Gute Unterhaltung!

Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Philippine Daily Inquirer

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The music guy

Toti Dalmacion | Photos by Mikey Yabut

PSEi falls below 5,900 on inflation shock

What sets the best apart

Jea Perez

I’ve always wondered about the following: Mindset-wise, what sets me—an ordinary athlete—apart from an Olympic champion?

Or, if comparing myself to an Olympian is like comparing apples and oranges, then let’s ask a different question: What separates a 10th placer in the Olympics from the gold medalist?

At that level, the differences can’t simply be talent. Everyone competing at the Olympics is already among the best in the world. Yet there is room for only one gold medalist.

Two people can train the same number of hours, follow the same program, and eat the same food—yet their outcomes will still vary.

The same principle applies to elite athletes. Everyone trains hard physically. So what actually sets the very best apart?

I got a glimpse of the answer when a journalist asked freestyle skier Eileen Gu to “take us into her brain.” She mentioned that she journals a lot and emphasized something simple but powerful: we can control our thoughts and our emotions. Neuroplasticity, she said, is on our side.

The brain is trainable in the same way the body is. The narratives we rehearse internally—about who we are, what we’re capable of, and how we respond to setbacks—eventually become mental habits. And those habits shape how we perform when the pressure is at its highest.

Elite athletes don’t just train their bodies; they train their minds. They rehearse confidence, learn to regulate their emotions, and become comfortable performing under pressure. These patterns of thinking eventually become part of their identity, and identity has a powerful influence over performance.

Another athlete who made me reflect on this is figure skater Alysa Liu. What struck me most about her gold medal performance wasn’t just the technical excellence. It was the visible joy. You could see it in the way she glided across the ice. There was a lightness to her skating.

After years in the spotlight as a teenage prodigy, Alysa stepped away from competition to rediscover why she loved skating in the first place. When she eventually returned, she made sure she was skating on her own terms. She wasn’t chasing validation. She wasn’t trying to prove anything. It was as if she simply wanted to skate, and the gold medal was just a bonus. That detachment from the outcome seemed to unlock her best performance. The joy was palpable—not just to the judges, but to everyone watching.

It’s one of those paradoxes we see not only in sports, but in life: when you stop gripping so tightly to the result, you finally perform freely enough to achieve it. When joy and presence replace pressure and fear, amazing results follow.

Even if you have no desire to become an Olympian, the mindset behind elite performance applies to almost every aspiration in life.

Most people assume success is primarily about external factors—talent, opportunity, circumstances. But we see that the internal landscape matters just as much: Your ability to regulate your thoughts, your ability to reframe setbacks, your ability to detach from outcomes while still giving your full effort. These are trainable skills.

Neuroplasticity means your brain is constantly rewiring itself based on what you practice. If you repeatedly practice doubt, comparison, and fear, those neural pathways grow stronger. But if you practice presence, confidence, and emotional regulation, those pathways strengthen instead. The brain adapts to the stories you rehearse. And maybe that’s the real difference between good and world-class.

Not just how hard someone trains physically—but how intentionally they train mentally. Because when the defining moment arrives—the Olympic final, the championship game, or the opportunity that could change your life—your body can only perform as well as the mind guiding it.

And the beautiful part is this: You don’t have to be an Olympian to apply that lesson.

The outcomes we want in life rarely come from focusing only on what we want to have. Instead, they begin with who we choose to be.

When someone becomes mentally resilient, disciplined, and grounded, their actions naturally follow from that identity. They show up consistently. They practice the habits that reinforce that identity. Over time, those actions accumulate into results.

Elite athletes understand this intuitively. They become the kind of person who can handle pressure, do the daily practices that reinforce that mindset—whether it’s journaling, visualizing, or training with focus—and eventually have the performances that the world celebrates.

But many people try to reverse the order. They believe that once they have success, they will finally be confident or disciplined. In reality, the process usually works the other way around. The work begins internally.

So maybe the real question isn’t what separates Olympians from the rest of us.

Maybe the more interesting question is this: Who are you becoming while you pursue what you want?

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Philippine education crisis: A ticking time bomb?

OXFORD—The highly-regarded Times Higher Education (THE) world university rankings annually surveys more than 2,000 leading universities across 115 countries. The University of Oxford topped the global ranking for the 10th consecutive year. This was an unprecedented achievement by any higher education institution in the THE’s decades-long history. The survey is based on 18 key metrics under five major categories: teaching quality, research environment, citation impact and strength, international outlook, and industry impact. This was a major deal for Oxford, especially given its relatively limited resources compared to far better-endowed rivals in the United States and Asia. “Aside from having world-beating professors, they’re good at squeezing the most out of their limited resources,” a graduate physics student told me. Even more impressive, according to the physics scholar, are universities in places such as Iran, which have produced world-class scientists and engineers despite confronting decades-old challenges.

Several Iranian institutions even improved their ranking among the top 500 universities in recent years, most notably the famed Sharif University of Technology (SUT), which was bombed during the recent Israel-US aerial strikes on Iran. The SUT (top 150 universities in engineering courses in the THE survey) is among the top three destinations in the world for Olympiads, behind only the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Cambridge. In contrast to postindustrial Britain and postwar Iran, universities in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies have been moving in the opposite direction.

In the latest THE rankings, the Philippines’ best-performing university (Ateneo de Manila University) did not even rank among the top 500 universities in the region. I remember how just over a decade ago we used to complain about why the likes of the University of the Philippines (UP) are no longer among the top 100 universities on Earth! Throughout the first decade of the 21st century, the “quartet” of UP, Ateneo, De La Salle University, and University of Santo Tomas managed to be featured among the world’s top 500 rankings. In 2009, Ateneo ranked 234th in the world, followed by UP (262nd in the world) in the QS Survey, which has a broadly similar methodology to THE. Lest Filipino academics whine about global rankings, let me refer you to the most rigorous Academic Ranking of World Universities survey, which heavily prioritizes citation impact, research output, and even the number of Nobel Prize winners. Guess what? No Philippine university has ever cracked the top 1,000 rankings there.

Davao City hailed as top PH travel destination

World Travel Index report names best locations to visit

By Poch Eulalia

SERENITY NOW Calming river scenery at Baganga, Davao Region (Photo: Pexels)

Davao City has taken the top spot in the April 2026 World Travel Index report. It is its second year in a row placing first.

Joining Davao in the list are Puerto Princesa at second place and Makati City placing third. Factors for the ranking include affordability, enjoyment, safety, and overall tourism experience. Davao scored a total of 88.38 in affordability, enjoyment at 62.09, 79.22 for safety, and 72.96 for overall tourism experience. It rounds up to a total score of 75.66. Meanwhile, Puerto Princesa and Makati City scored a total of 74.68 and 73.82.

According to an official statement by the City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO), this continued success is due to the support of tourism stakeholders in the city. "This milestone is a testament to the unwavering support and dedication of our tourism and hospitality stakeholders, partners, and the entire community who continue to elevate Davao’s tourism landscape. Our heartfelt thanks as well to all travelers—both local and international—for choosing Davao City and making it part of your journey,” the statement reads.

Higher push for local travel

With gas prices still at an all-time high, some travel experts point out how domestic travel is likely to pop off in comparison to international travel. Reasons include the rising surcharge prices for airlines trying to keep up with oil prices. Currently, the Philippine Civil Aeronautics Board has fuel surcharge placed at level 18, putting international flight surcharge prices in the range of ₱1,958.44 to ₱14,561.87.

Belen leads Team Heart in fourth-set surge to rule PVL All-Star

By Manila Bulletin Newsroom

Published May 2, 2026 02:01 pm

CANDON, Ilocos Sur – Team Heart delivered a commanding performance in the fourth set to put away Team Hustle, 25-18, 18-25, 25-23, 25-17, in the PVL exhibition match of the 2026 Volleyball All-Star Showcase on Friday night, May 1, at a packed Candon City Arena here.

Powered by MVP Bella Belen, Team Heart split the first two sets with Team Hustle in a tightly contested opening before finding another gear in the closing stages of the third set to seize momentum.

From there, Team Heart carried that energy into the fourth frame, racing to an early lead and never letting up to finally close out the match and secure the P100,000 top prize in a fitting finish to the showcase.

“Ayun po, masaya po kami kasi nakapag-interact kami with the fans. So, parang sa part namin mas nakakatuwa na makita po yung fans na nage-enjoy,” said Belen.

A blistering 11-1 start in the fourth set set the tone for Team Heart, which had just edged the third frame. They maintained full control from there, reaching match point at 24-17 before sealing the win.

Adding to the All-Star atmosphere, the match featured several lighthearted twists, including a coach and a line judge taking service attempts, players rotating into line judging duties, and liberos testing their luck in attacking plays, embracing the event’s festive spirit.

On the final play, court assistant Jhyson Manzano—brought in by Alyssa Valdez—finished the match with a cross-court hit off a set from Jia De Guzman, with the ball deflecting off Kath Arado to cap the entertaining showcase.

“Talagang sobrang happy kasi sobrang daming fans sa Candon,” said Team Heart head coach Rald Ricafort.

“Sobrang happy din nila kasi nakikita nila ‘yung iniidolo nilang players, kaya ako, na-overwhelm ako sa Candon kasi grabe ‘yung volleyball community dito. Parang hindi namin ine-expect na ganun ‘yung makikita namin sa arena,” he added.

Team Hustle settled for the runner-up finish and the P50,000 consolation prize.

In the side events, Team Power—fresh from its win in the Spikers’ Turf All-Star Game—kept its momentum, ruling the Infinite Volley Extravaganza Challenge behind Noel Kampton, Ysay Marasigan, Jayvee Sumagaysay, and fan Maria Ruzzel Rogel as they defeated Team Passion’s Jared Schnake, Nas Gwaza, Jau Umandal, and spectator Keen Malintad.

Meanwhile, Team Blue, composed of Kath Arado, Alyssa Eroa, John Pepito, and Rikko Marmeto, topped the Crosscourt Sniper Challenge after outlasting Team Yellow, which featured Dawn Catindig, Justine Jazareno, Vince Lorenzo, and Menard Guerrero.

Mayon Volcano have blanketed several towns and cities

Thick plumes of ash from Mayon Volcano have blanketed several towns and cities in Albay and nearby provinces, prompting authorities to raise alert levels as the volcano continues to show signs of unrest.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported that the volcano has been emitting steam-driven plumes and ash, driven by prevailing winds towards the southwest and west. This has resulted in heavy ashfall in Legazpi City, Daraga, Camalig, Guinobatan, and other areas within the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and beyond.

While Mayon is one of the most active volcanoes in the country, this latest eruption is considered one of the more significant events in recent years. Authorities remain on high alert, continuously monitoring seismic activity and ground deformation to assess any further escalation.

Getting to know Bea Millan-Windorski, Miss Universe Philippines 2026 Winner

By Neil Ramos

At A Glance

Get to know Bea Millan-Windorski, Miss Universe Philippines 2026 winner and Filipino-American beauty queen. Discover her inspiring journey from Wisconsin to the global pageant stage, her education, advocacies, and rise as a representative for the Philippines at Miss Universe 2026.

Bea Millan-Windorski is now among most talked-about names in pageantry today and not just because she is this year's Miss Universe Philippines winner. With a rare blend of academic depth, Filipino-American identity, and a purpose-driven voice, she represents a new kind of beauty queen: one who leads with both intellect and impact.

But who is she really?

Born to a Filipino immigrant family with roots in La Union, Bea grew up in Wisconsin, USA, where culture and identity played a major role in shaping her worldview. Her maternal grandparents had migrated from the Philippines, grounding her in a strong Filipino heritage despite growing up abroad.

At Whitefish Bay High School, she wasn’t just a student—she was a multi-talented achiever. She joined the varsity dance team, played cello in orchestra, and even sharpened her voice in debate competitions. Alongside academics, she trained in ballet and music at respected institutions, showing early signs of discipline and performance artistry that would later define her pageant career.

Before stepping into pageantry, Bea built a strong academic foundation at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, earning degrees in History and International Relations. Her interest in global affairs, particularly US–ASEAN relations, shaped her understanding of diplomacy, identity, and cultural exchange.

She was also active in campus life as a member of Kappa Alpha Theta, further developing her leadership skills and social awareness—traits that would later become central to her advocacy work.

Bea’s entry into pageantry was nothing short of historic. Representing Wisconsin, she joined Miss Earth USA 2024 and ultimately made history as the first Filipino-American to win the title.

Her preparation was deeply rooted in Filipino creativity and mentorship, working with industry professionals connected to Philippine pageantry. Her win wasn’t just a personal milestone—it marked the beginning of an international journey.

As Miss Earth USA, she represented the United States at Miss Earth 2024, where she continued to stand out on the global stage. She earned the Miss Earth – Water title, securing a top placement among international candidates.

One of her most talked-about moments came during the final question-and-answer round, where she emphasized environmental responsibility and the need to reconsider humanity’s relationship with technology and nature. Her response reflected her consistent advocacy for sustainability and climate awareness.

Bea’s return to her roots marked a defining shift in her career. In 2026, she was officially chosen as La Union’s representative for the Miss Universe Philippines competition.

From the start, she was seen as a frontrunner—and she delivered.

She advanced through every major stage of the competition, impressing judges with her intelligence, authenticity, and advocacy-driven answers. During the final Q&A, she spoke about Filipino resilience and identity, emphasizing her pride in representing a nation she deeply connects with, despite growing up abroad.

Her powerful performance earned her the crown of Miss Universe Philippines 2026, succeeding Ahtisa Manalo.

What sets Bea apart in the world of pageantry is her commitment to meaningful causes. She is actively involved in environmental advocacy and migrant rights, drawing from both her Filipino heritage and her international upbringing.

She founded Open Doors, Open Hearts, a group focused on raising awareness about climate refugees and displaced communities. She has also supported conservation efforts for marine life in La Union through environmental projects like sea turtle protection initiatives.

Bea now prepares for her biggest international challenge yet: representing the Philippines at Miss Universe 2026.

Her journey is already shaping up to be more than a pageant run. It’s a story of identity, migration, purpose, and global representation.

Lovi Poe, 'Game of Thrones' star Maisie Williams unite for thriller 'Ignition'

By Carissa Alcantara

Published May 5, 2026 12:11 pm

After making her Hollywood debut in "Bad Man," Lovi Poe is set to appear in another international project. She will star alongside Maisie Williams in the thriller film "Ignition."

Poe shared the good news to fans via Instagram.

"'Ignition's' first look is out now—being introduced at Cannes this May. Can’t wait," she wrote. "Oh, and by the way… the North remembers. Had to bring a little 'Game of Thrones' energy," Lovi wrote.

According to a report by Variety, the film will be directed by Emmy-nominated director James Erskine.

The story follows Sylvie Johnson, played by Williams. What begins as a simple drive to London quickly turns into a nightmare when she receives a call from an unknown person who claims there is a bomb in her car. With no way to escape or ask for help, Sylvie is forced to simply follow instructions. She must deliver the bomb to the Royal Albert Hall. As the situation becomes more dangerous, she tries to survive while uncovering why she was chosen.

Also joining the cast is Rory Kinnear, known for his roles in the James Bond film series.

Erskine said the film was shot using a “live cinema” style. This method aims to make scenes feel more real and immediate.

"I wanted the audience to feel completely inside Sylvie’s experience as events unfold, capturing a sense of immediacy and psychological pressure that builds in real time. It creates the ideal platform for Maisie Williams’s extraordinary central performance," James explained.

Because filming took place in real locations and on active roads, the team used hidden, remotely controlled cameras. This allowed the actors to move freely and perform more naturally, without a visible film crew around them.

A German Expat in The Philippines - Ein deutscher Auswanderer auf den Philippinen