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surge

Google Cofounder Larry Page Ranks Third Richest After Stock Surge

by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor November 20, 2025

written by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor

Google‘s Larry Page⁢ Climbs to Third-Richest in teh ‌World ⁢Following Gemini 3 Launch

MOUNTAIN VIEW, ⁣CA ⁤- December 6, ‍2023 – Google cofounder Larry page has surpassed Amazon’s Jeff Bezos to become the world’s third-wealthiest individual,‌ propelled by a surge in Alphabet’s stock price following the unveiling of its new Gemini 3 artificial intelligence model.⁢ The jump in valuation adds billions to Page’s fortune and signals strong investor confidence in Google’s AI‍ ambitions.

The increase in Page’s net worth-estimated at $7.6 billion-comes as‌ Alphabet shares jumped nearly 6% in early Wednesday trading, before settling‌ around a 3.3% increase as of 2 p.m. ‍EST. This boost ⁣is directly linked to the‌ release ‌of⁤ Gemini 3, Google’s ⁤latest and most capable AI model, and reflects a broader market rally ⁤for the tech giant, with‌ its stock climbing 102% from its april ⁤low.

Page’s 3.2% stake in alphabet is now valued at‍ a‌ significantly higher level, placing him third ⁣on the Forbes ⁣ Real-Time Billionaires List. Fellow Google cofounder ⁤sergey Brin, holding‌ a 2.9% ⁤stake, ‍also saw ‌a substantial ⁢gain of $7 ⁣billion, securing his position as the fifth-richest person globally.

Currently,⁤ Elon Musk leads the ⁤list with ⁣a fortune of $466.2 billion, followed by⁤ Oracle ‌chairman Larry⁤ Ellison at $276.5 billion. Jeff ⁣Bezos now ranks‌ fourth with a‍ net worth of $233.6 billion.

The launch of gemini ⁢3 marks a critical moment in the rapidly evolving AI landscape, positioning Google as a major competitor ⁢to other⁣ industry ⁤leaders.The model’s capabilities are expected to enhance a wide ⁤range of Google products and⁣ services, driving future‌ growth ‌and‌ innovation.

November 20, 2025 0 comments

Entertainment

Madrid Arises in Autumn: 12th Edition Program

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor September 2, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

Madrid‘s ⁢Fall Season Ignites with “Madrid Arises in Autumn” – A Showcase of Avant-Garde Performing Arts

Madrid, Spain – The Madrid region is set to become a hub for experimental theater this fall with the launch of “Madrid Arises in Autumn,” a performing arts festival spotlighting ‌both established and emerging artists. Presented Monday by Minister of Culture,Tourism and ⁤Sports,Mariano de ‌Paco Serrano,alongside coordinators Alberto García and natalia Ortega,the festival will run from September 25th through October 12th,utilizing a diverse range ⁢of venues across Madrid,Alcorcón,and Navalcarnero.

the‍ festival⁢ boasts a robust programme including premieres such as ‘Fury Fast Intervention Unit’ (October 10 & 11),‘feather’ (September 25 & 26),‘2150’ (September 25 &‌ 26),‘Applause to Teresa’ (September 28 & 29),‘Araraquara’ (September 27 & 28),‘Weddings without blood’ (October 2 & 3),and ‘Don quijote to you’ (starting⁢ October‌ 2).

Notably, the festival will feature productions of classic ‌works like Medea and Fuenteovejuna, staged at the ‌ Sala replika alongside ⁣other venues including The Fourth Wall, Viewpoint, the⁤ Neighborhood Theater, Chance, and The Spring threshold.

“Every fall, ⁤the region becomes the scene of the avant-garde of international performing⁤ arts ‍in this exhibition that unites⁤ aesthetic research and experimentation with social current‌ arguments,” stated Minister Serrano.

The ‍festival also includes an international dimension, in collaboration with hispanidad 2025, featuring Spanish-American creations like ‘Living in a house‍ on ⁣fire’ by Julieta ‍koop and‍ Danae Cisneros, and a plastic intervention titled ‘of the theater⁢ to the mural’.

A dedicated “Emerging” section will showcase seven novel companies⁤ and creators, including performances like ‘_Mov (i) ment in.com (bat)’ and ‘Virtual choreographies: Tiktok and future movement (s)’. The Transverse ‌Activities section will highlight less-programmed genres and experimental work.

According to coordinator Alberto García, option scenic spaces have “completely mutated⁢ their rules of the game… They are no longer only places, but authentic shelters of creation. Laboratories where new and consecrated artists find themselves to give life to unique proposals, with the freedom to risk and get out of the conventional.”

September 2, 2025 0 comments

World

Japan’s Debt Costs Soar to Record $220 Billion

by Priya Shah – Business Editor August 26, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

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JapanS National Debt: Servicing Costs Soar to‌ Record $220 Billion

Table of Contents

JapanS National Debt: Servicing Costs Soar to‌ Record $220 Billion
- The Who, what, When, Where, Why, and How of Japan’s Debt Crisis

Tokyo – Japan is bracing for a significant increase ⁣in its debt‍ servicing costs,⁤ projected to reach a record‍ $220 billion‌ in the fiscal year commencing April⁤ 2024. This ⁣surge, driven⁣ by rising global interest rates and a weakening yen, presents a meaningful challenge to the nation’s already strained public finances. The⁤ escalating costs will likely necessitate strategic⁣ budgetary⁤ adjustments⁤ and potentially impact government spending on key social programs.

The Who, what, When, Where, Why, and How of Japan’s Debt Crisis

Who: The Government⁤ of Japan, Japanese taxpayers, and global financial markets‍ are all ⁣directly affected. ⁤ What: A ‌record-breaking $220 billion in debt servicing ⁣costs. When: fiscal year beginning April 2024. Where: Japan,with global financial implications. Why: Rising global interest rates ⁣and a⁣ depreciating yen. How: Through increased bond yields and the cost of repaying yen-denominated debt ‍in a ⁢stronger dollar.

Did You Know? Japan has the highest debt-to-GDP ratio in the world, exceeding 260%⁤ as of 2023, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Contextualizing the Surge: Interest Rates and the⁣ Yen

The primary driver behind this increase‌ is⁣ the Bank of Japan’s (BOJ) recent shift away from its ultra-loose monetary policy.‍ For years, the BOJ maintained negative interest rates⁢ and yield ‌curve control to⁣ stimulate economic growth. However,⁣ with inflation showing signs of persistence, the BOJ has⁣ begun ‍to cautiously raise interest rates. ⁢This, coupled with aggressive rate hikes by ‌the U.S. Federal Reserve, has widened ⁣the⁢ interest rate differential between Japan and ⁤the⁤ United States.

The weakening yen further exacerbates ‌the ⁢problem. As the dollar strengthens against ‌the yen, the cost of servicing Japan’s substantial dollar-denominated debt increases. This creates a vicious ⁢cycle,as a weaker‌ yen can fuel inflation,prompting further monetary tightening and ‌higher debt servicing costs. The⁢ Ministry of ‍Finance estimates that a one-yen decline against the dollar adds approximately ‍¥200‍ billion ($1.35 billion) to annual debt servicing costs (Reuters).

A Visual Breakdown of Japan’s Debt

Year	Total National Debt⁣ (Trillions of‌ Yen)	Debt Servicing Costs (Trillions of Yen)	Interest Rate (Average)
2019	1,190	23.5	-0.2%
2020	1,230	23.0	-0.3%
2021	1,260	24.2	-0.4%
2022	1,290	27.8	0.1%
2023	1,320	31.4	0.4%
2024‍ (Projected)	1,350	35.0	0.7%

Strategic ⁣Implications and‌ Potential ⁢Responses

The escalating debt‌ servicing costs will undoubtedly constrain the Japanese government’s fiscal space. ‍This could lead to cuts in public‌ spending, potentially⁤ impacting social security, healthcare, and infrastructure projects. Alternatively, the government may consider raising taxes, a

August 26, 2025 0 comments

News

Leptospirosis cases surge: Metro Manila hospitals set up fast lanes to accommodate patients

by David Harrison – Chief Editor August 9, 2025

written by David Harrison – Chief Editor

Metro Manila Hospitals Overwhelmed by Leptospirosis Surge

Fast Lanes Activated as Floodwaters Recede

Nineteen hospitals across Metro Manila have initiated leptospirosis fast lanes to manage a significant increase in cases following recent widespread flooding. The Department of Health confirmed this move as emergency services at key facilities, including the Philippine General Hospital and Ospital ng Maynila, have been temporarily suspended due to overwhelming patient volumes.

Hospitals Reach Capacity

The Pasay City General Hospital (PCGH) announced its emergency room was at full capacity, attributing the surge to multiple leptospirosis infections, though other illnesses are also being treated. The hospital has advised individuals with non-emergency needs to seek care at local health centers during weekdays or proceed to nearby facilities for urgent concerns.

Medical professionals tending to patients at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, as reported increases in leptospirosis cases are observed amid heavy rains and flooding in Metro Manila.

Leptospirosis Fast Lanes Explained

These specialized fast lanes are designed to offer immediate medical attention, including consultation, diagnosis, and treatment for individuals exposed to floodwaters. The Department of Health has recorded 2,396 leptospirosis cases nationwide between June 8 and August 7, with a notable concentration within the capital region.

Marikina Hospital Reports Stable Supplies

In Marikina, Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center has activated its emergency command system. Dr. Imelda Mateo, the medical center chief, stated that despite 38 leptospirosis patients, including 13 adults undergoing dialysis, the hospital maintains a supply of approximately 10,000 doxycycline capsules for preventative treatment. The center also offers free medication to eligible indigent patients.

Pasig Expands Treatment Areas

The Rizal Memorial Medical Center in Pasig City has broadened its capacity by repurposing hallways and non-clinical spaces to accommodate patients with moderate to severe leptospirosis. Dr. Vincent Moderezs, head of the Emergency Medicine Department, reported 11 admitted patients and 32 suspected cases. Consultations and treatments are provided free of charge under the hospital’s zero-balance billing policy.

San Lazaro Hospital Records Deaths

San Lazaro Hospital in Manila has admitted 124 patients with moderate to severe leptospirosis, with 14 fatalities reported. Dr. Rontgene Solante, the Medical Center chief, stressed the critical importance of early detection. Leptospirosis can be deadly, but it is preventable. If you’ve been exposed to floodwater and develop a fever, seek medical care immediately. he advised.

The DOH continues to distribute prophylactic doxycycline to high-risk individuals with a valid prescription. Health officials remind the public that leptospirosis symptoms can manifest up to 30 days post-exposure, urging continued vigilance in the weeks following heavy rains and flooding. For a comprehensive list of hospitals with leptospirosis fast lanes, visit www.manilatimes.net.

August 9, 2025 0 comments

News

19 DOH hospitals open fast lanes as Leptospirosis cases surge

by David Harrison – Chief Editor August 9, 2025

written by David Harrison – Chief Editor

Manila Hospitals Brace for Leptospirosis Surge

All Metro Manila DOH Facilities Activate Fast Lanes Amidst Flood Aftermath

Metro Manila’s healthcare system is on high alert as 19 Department of Health-accredited hospitals have launched specialized leptospirosis fast lanes. This proactive measure addresses a significant increase in cases following weeks of persistent, rain-induced flooding across the region.

Emergency Services Strained

The Philippine General Hospital (PGH) and Ospital ng Maynila have temporarily suspended emergency services due to an overwhelming influx of patients. These dedicated fast lanes are designed to provide immediate consultation, diagnosis, and treatment for individuals exposed to floodwaters, a common vector for the bacterial infection.

Leptospirosis Cases Climb

From June 8 to August 7, the DOH recorded a total of 2,396 leptospirosis cases nationwide, with a substantial concentration within Metro Manila. This surge highlights the public health challenges following recent weather events.

Marikina Hospital on High Alert

The Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center (ARMMC) in Marikina has activated its emergency command system in anticipation of further rainfall and flooding. Medical Center Chief Dr. **Imelda Mateo** reported 38 current leptospirosis patients, including four children and 13 adults undergoing dialysis.

“We cater to any Filipino citizen who needs medicine, as long as it’s in the Philippine National Drug Formulary.”

—Dr. Imelda Mateo, Medical Center Chief

ARMMC maintains stable supplies, with approximately 10,000 doxycycline capsules available for prophylaxis. The hospital also offers free medication to indigent patients from outside Marikina with a valid prescription, prioritizing any Filipino in need according to national drug formulary guidelines.

Pasig Facility Expands Capacity

In Pasig City, the Rizal Memorial Medical Center has repurposed hallways and non-medical areas to accommodate moderate to severe leptospirosis cases. Dr. **Vincent Moderez**, Chairman of the Emergency Medicine Department, noted 11 admitted patients and 32 suspected cases in the emergency room. Consultations and treatments for leptospirosis are provided free of charge under the hospital’s zero-balance billing policy.

San Lazaro Hospital Reports Deaths

San Lazaro Hospital in Manila has admitted 124 moderate to severe leptospirosis patients, with 14 fatalities recorded. Medical Center Chief Dr. **Rontgene Solante** stressed the critical importance of early medical intervention.

“Leptospirosis can be deadly, but it is preventable. If you’ve been exposed to floodwater and develop a fever, seek medical care immediately.”

—Dr. Rontgene Solante, Medical Center Chief

These facilities are also distributing prophylactic doxycycline to individuals at high risk, requiring a valid prescription for dispensing. The DOH advises that leptospirosis symptoms can manifest up to 30 days post-exposure, urging continued vigilance among the public in the weeks following flood events.

The World Health Organization reports that leptospirosis, a zoonotic disease, can lead to severe health complications including kidney failure and meningitis, emphasizing the need for prompt treatment (Source: WHO).

August 9, 2025 0 comments

World

Piracy Incidents Surge to Five-Year High Driven by Singapore Strait

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor July 9, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Piracy Incidents Surge Along Key Trade Route

Maritime bureau urges vigilance as Singapore Strait sees dramatic rise in armed robberies.

The first half of 2025 saw a dramatic 50% increase in piracy and armed robbery against ships, according to a new mid-year report. The rise in incidents, especially around the Singapore Strait, a crucial artery for global trade, is raising alarms.

Sharp Increase in Attacks

Figures from the ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) reveal 90 incidents were reported during the first six months of 2025, a steep climb from the 60 incidents reported during the same period in 2024. This marks the highest rate of incidents for the first half of any year since 2020.

The IMB is expressing strong concern, noting that in 90% of reported cases, vessels were successfully boarded, even while underway. Worryingly, the mid-year total is already three-quarters of the total 116 incidents reported for all of 2024.

Singapore Strait Hotspot

Approximately two-thirds of all reported incidents occurred in the vicinity of the Singapore Strait. Reports to the IMB detail 57 incidents in the first half of 2025, a massive jump from the mere 15 incidents reported during the same timeframe last year.

The recent surge in piracy is impacting insurance rates, with underwriters carefully assessing risk profiles for vessels transiting the Singapore Strait (Marine Insurance, 2025).

Details of Attacks

“The boarding of large vessels exceeding 150,000 dwt in this narrow and congested waterway remains a significant concern, particularly given the 95 percent success rate of boardings in the Singapore Strait,” the IMB report stated.

Despite being relatively low-level incidents, the continued use of weapons is cause for alarm. Guns and knives were used in 34 of the 57 reported incidents. Crew safety remains a major concern, with reports of 13 crew members held hostage, five threatened, three injured, and one assaulted.

Regional Authorities Sound Alarm

The ReCAAP, a regional operation monitoring incidents in Asia, has also voiced its concerns about the rising number of incidents, particularly around the Singapore Strait. Their data shows 107 reported incidents across Asia thus far in 2025.

During the week of June 30 to July 7, ReCAAP reported 11 armed robbery incidents in Asia, all targeting vessels in the eastbound lane of the Singapore Strait. Engine spare parts were stolen in four of these cases, and in one instance, a CMA CGM containership discovered that boarders had been on board for 10 minutes without detection.

Global Impact

Overall, the IMB calculates that 40 crew members have been taken hostage, 16 kidnapped, five threatened, three assaulted, and three injured in 2025. While the Gulf of Guinea recorded fewer incidents overall, it accounted for 87% of crew kidnappings, with 12 incidents reported, consistent with recent years.

Other regions remained relatively calm, with only a few piracy incidents reported. The IMB urges vigilance, noting that risks remain, especially off the coast of Somalia as monsoon season subsides.

July 9, 2025 0 comments

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