Zero EDSA busway funding in DOTr 2027 budget alarms commuters

The Move as One Coalition has flagged that the Department of Transportation’s proposed 2027 budget allocates zero funding for EDSA busway service contracting and fuel subsidies for transport drivers. The coalition is questioning the absence of these items in the budget proposal. The EDSA busway carries up to 300,000 passengers daily, including many Quezon City residents who rely on it for commuting. Zero funding could threaten the continuity of service contracting and fuel subsidies, potentially affecting busway operations and driver livelihoods. The funding gap appears in DOTr’s proposed 2027 national budget, which will still undergo congressional deliberations. Commuters and transport groups should monitor budget hearings for possible restoration of funds or adjustments to busway services.

Live Coverage: Sara Duterte Impeachment Trial at Senate

Rappler is providing live updates on the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, which is taking place at the Philippine Senate. The trial is a major national political event with ongoing proceedings. This trial affects the political stability of the country and has direct implications for governance and public policy, making it highly relevant to Quezon City residents who follow national affairs. The live updates offer timely information for those who want to stay informed about the proceedings. Readers can bookmark the Rappler page for continuous coverage, including videos and updates. No specific admission or registration is required as this is a news coverage page, accessible online for free.

Cultural Roundup: Alcala Retrospective, Hallyu Fest, Vietnamese Puppetry

A retrospective on National Artist Larry Alcala’s works, a two-day Hallyu festival, and Vietnamese water puppetry performances are set to take place in the Philippines. Specific dates, venues, and organizers have not yet been announced. These events offer Quezon City residents free or low-cost access to diverse cultural experiences, including a tribute to a beloved Filipino cartoonist and a celebration of Philippines-Vietnam ties. They provide family-friendly opportunities to appreciate art and international culture without leaving Metro Manila. Admission fees, registration requirements, and transportation details have not been released. Interested attendees should monitor official announcements from cultural institutions and the Philippine-Vietnam Friendship Association for updates.

Class Suspensions Announced for August 19 Due to Monsoon

Classes have been suspended for Wednesday, August 19, 2026, in areas affected by the southwest monsoon, including parts of Metro Manila such as Quezon City. The announcement covers both public and private schools at various levels. This affects the daily routine of thousands of students and parents in Quezon City and Metro Manila, helping families plan ahead for safety during heavy rain and potential flooding. It is a critical, timely update for schools and households. The suspension applies to Wednesday, August 19, 2026, and varies by local government unit. Parents and students should check their specific city or municipality’s official announcements for exact coverage, as well as their school’s communication channels.

Flowers for a Cause: Reddit Fundraiser Aids Stray Animals in Metro Manila

A Reddit user in Metro Manila is selling flower bouquets as a fundraiser to help stray dogs and cats affected by the current weather in the Philippines. The campaign is being run through the r/MANILA subreddit by u/Potential_Quiet1796, who says every penny from bouquet purchases goes directly to helping strays. This is a small, direct way for Quezon City residents to support animal welfare during difficult weather, with every purchase going to a local cause. It also shows how community members can rally around vulnerable strays without needing a large organization. To join, interested buyers should contact u/Potential_Quiet1796 through the r/MANILA Reddit post to arrange a bouquet purchase and delivery details. Since this is a first-time fundraiser, buyers should confirm pricing, bouquet availability, and meet-up or shipping options directly with the organizer.

Dad’s Simple Flood Fix vs. AI Drone Tech Sparks Metro Manila Debate

A Reddit post on r/MANILA by user EnvironmentalMain984 humorously contrasts a father’s traditional flood-prevention know-how with AI drone-based flood detection. The post highlights ongoing flooding issues in Metro Manila and invites community reactions. Flooding is a recurring problem for many Quezon City residents, especially during the rainy season. This post matters because it contrasts low-cost, community-level flood prevention with high-tech solutions, prompting residents to think about practical ways to reduce flood risk. No event, admission fee, or registration is involved; the discussion is happening on the Reddit thread linked in the news item. Interested readers can visit r/MANILA to read the post and join the conversation.

14 Years of Flooding in Sampaloc, España Sparks Outrage Against Officials

A Reddit user in Sampaloc, España, has posted a viral rant expressing frustration over 14 years of severe flooding after even light rain, directly blaming Manila city government and DPWH for inaction, and urging voters to elect better leaders in the next elections. This complaint highlights a long-standing public infrastructure issue affecting thousands of residents, commuters, and students in Metro Manila, underscoring the urgent need for flood control solutions and accountable governance. The post, shared on the r/MANILA subreddit, addresses flooding along España Boulevard in Sampaloc, an area that experiences rapid waterlogging during heavy rain, often disrupting traffic and daily activities. No official response from DPWH or Manila LGU has been reported yet.

Luzon Monsoon Rains Persist; New LPA May Become Tropical Depression

PAGASA reported continued southwest monsoon rains across Luzon and the Visayas as of Tuesday, August 18, and is monitoring two low pressure areas, one of which may develop into a tropical depression. The weather system could bring additional rain to Quezon City and nearby Metro Manila areas. Quezon City residents should stay alert because prolonged monsoon rains can cause flooding, traffic disruptions, and class or work suspensions. Knowing whether the low pressure area becomes a tropical depression helps families and commuters plan their day and prepare emergency supplies. PAGASA advises monitoring its official weather bulletins and social media channels for updates on rainfall warnings and possible tropical cyclone signals. Residents in flood-prone areas of Quezon City should prepare sandbags, flashlights, and emergency kits, and avoid crossing flooded streets.

Larry Alcala Centennial, Hallyu Fest, Vietnam Water Puppetry in Manila

A Philstar arts roundup highlights a retrospective of National Artist Larry Alcala’s works, a Hallyu festival, and a two-day Philippines-Vietnam puppetry celebration. The celebration culminated on August 8 with a public Vietnamese water puppetry performance at Plaza Moriones in Fort Santiago, Manila. These events give Quezon City and Metro Manila residents accessible ways to experience Philippine cartooning history, Korean pop culture, and Vietnam’s centuries-old water puppetry tradition. The Fort Santiago performance was open to the public, making it a family-friendly cultural outing. The water puppetry performance took place at Plaza Moriones, Fort Santiago, Manila, on August 8, as part of Vietnam Cultural Days in Manila. For the Larry Alcala retrospective and Hallyu festival, check the full Philstar article for venues, dates, and admission details.