ADMU Research Communications Section

The Philippines, like other tropical countries, is known more for its balmy climate than for hailstorms. But a new Philippine study—the first of its kind—has found that the country’s hottest days are, in fact, more likely to produce hail.

Hailstorms are so few and far between in the Philippines that, even in an age of pervasive social media updates, they are still met with amazement and astonishment.

“Most people are surprised when hail happens because it is relatively rare in the Philippines,” said  Dr. Lyndon Mark P. Olaguera, senior author of the study. “Many take photos or videos and share them online. Some are scared since it’s unusual, while others just treat it as a strange kind of rain. People usually explain it as part of strong thunderstorms, and some interpret hail as a warning or sign of climate change.”

The largest hailstones ever recorded in the country fell in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija, on May 8, 2020. These ice balls reportedly reached up to 5 centimeters in diameter, larger than golf balls. High surface temperatures on that day provided the ideal conditions for temperature-driven air movements or convection. Using satellite and radar data along with high-resolution weather modeling, the researchers confirmed the presence of strong updrafts and favorable conditions for hailstorms at the time.

Ice born from hot air

The counterintuitive connection between heat near the ground and ice falling from the sky is partly explained by a meteorological factor known as Convective Available Potential Energy (CAPE), a measure of how much energy is available to fuel rising air. High CAPE values indicate conditions favorable for convective activity, wherein hot air near the Earth’s surface rapidly rises and carries moisture into towering thunderclouds. Within these clouds, powerful updrafts can carry water  droplets high enough into much colder layers of the atmosphere, where they freeze and eventually grow into hailstones.

Also, the presence of  dry air in the mid-troposphere can actually increase the likelihood of hailstones surviving to reach the ground. Dry air enhances evaporative cooling, which strengthens downdrafts and accelerates the descent of hail. Because the hailstones spend less time passing through warmer air on their way down, they are less likely to melt completely before hitting the ground.

Groundbreaking study of tropical ice 

Spanning nearly two decades worth of data, from 2006 to 2024, the Philippine study is the first ever comprehensive analysis of hail occurrences in the country. The researchers found that hail events were most frequent during the dry-season months of March, April, and May—precisely the period when surface temperatures peak and the atmosphere is primed for thunderstorms. Most hailstorms were found to have occurred during the mid to late afternoon, the hottest part of the day. 

Interestingly, while Luzon recorded the most hail events overall, relatively  larger  hailstones were more observed in the Visayas and Mindanao. The study attributes this to the weaker influence of the Southwest Monsoon in those regions, which allows localized convective storms to persist later into the year.

Invaluable importance of citizen science

For their study,  the researchers relied on a wide range of sources—not just instrument data, but also local government records, news media, and geotagged social media posts. This multi-source, crowd-informed approach proved especially valuable given the country’s sparse ground-based hail detection capabilities. This shows the invaluability of citizen science and public reporting in monitoring hailstorms and other severe weather hazards. 

As climate change increases the likelihood of extreme weather, empowering the public to participate in data gathering may prove essential for the development of early warning systems in the Philippines. Looking ahead, the researchers stress the need to expand the country’s weather monitoring and forecasting capabilities. They recommend that local disaster preparedness focus not only on typhoons and floods, but also on less familiar hazards which can catch communities off guard—such as tornadoes and waterspouts, as well as hailstorms.

The study Spatiotemporal Analysis of Hail Events in the Philippines was authored by Marco Polo A. Ibañez, John A. Manalo, and Generich H. Capuli of DOST-PAGASA; and Dr. Lyndon Mark P. Olaguera of the Ateneo de Manila University and the Manila Observatory.

SOURCE:

https://archium.ateneo.edu/physics-faculty-pubs/192

For interview requests and other inquiries, please email media.research@ateneo.edu. Visit archium.ateneo.edu for more information about our latest research and innovations.

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From historic battlegrounds to sun-kissed shores, the NLEX Lakbay Norte adventure invites you to uncover the soul of Central Luzon. This NLEX Lakbay Norte trip’s journey winds through the poignant history of Bataan, the vibrant waterside energy of Subic Bay, and the laid-back surf charm of Zambales—made effortlessly accessible by the country’s most scenic expressway, the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX).

A Road Trip Where Every Kilometer Tells a Story

For years, the NLEX Lakbay Norte program has been championing domestic travel by showcasing the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and unique flavors. The 2025 edition promises an unforgettable experience: tracing Bataan’s legacy of courage, cruising into Subic Bay’s lively harbor, and soaking in the raw coastal beauty of Zambales—all connected by one seamless, scenic drive.

SCTEX: Your Gateway to the North’s Best-Kept Secrets

Spanning an impressive 94 kilometers, SCTEX seamlessly links Subic, Clark, and Tarlac, opening the door to countless adventures while offering one of the most visually pleasing expressways in the country. Imagine cruising past emerald rice fields, rolling hills, and the majestic Zambales mountain range, all on smooth, well-maintained roads with world-class facilities at every stop.

But SCTEX is more than a road—it’s a benchmark for sustainable infrastructure. Energy-efficient LED lighting ensures safer nighttime travel, solar-powered facilities keep operations eco-friendly, and rainwater harvesting systems at Floridablanca and Dinalupihan rest bays conserve precious resources. These innovations mean your trip isn’t just beautiful—it’s greener and safer, too.

Bataan: History and Coastal Serenity

In Bataan, history stands proud at St. Dominic De Guzman Parish Church in Abucay, a 17th-century treasure that has weathered centuries of change. After exploring its heritage, relax at Luces Living, a charming café where plant-based specialties meet cozy ambiance. For beachfront tranquility, Bayandati Resort in Morong offers serene stays just steps from the sand, while EGL Beach Resort delivers comfort with panoramic sea views.

A visit to the Pawikan Conservation Center offers a heartwarming glimpse into marine life preservation, including encounters with gentle sea turtles. And when hunger calls, locals will point you to Loleng’s Hu Tieu-an, where Vietnamese-Filipino flavors fuse into unforgettable dishes.

Subic Bay: Sunset Cruises and Seaside Thrills

Subic Bay buzzes with adventure. Set sail on a Sunset Cruise, where the golden light dances across calm waters, or swing into leisure at the Sunset Swing Golf Range with a backdrop of fiery skies. Dive into marine encounters at Ocean Adventure, enjoy hearty meals at Captain Jack’s, or aim for fun at The Range.

For a taste of Subic’s global dining scene, savor crab feasts at Crabs n Crack or European-inspired plates at Urban Deli. Rest easy at Travellers Hotel or Best Western Hotel, both offering modern amenities and easy access to the bay’s highlights.

Zambales: Coastal Charm and Local Flavors

Further north, the surf town of Liw Liwa in San Felipe welcomes visitors with its rustic beach cafés and friendly wave culture. In Botolan, Haya Nature Resort offers an eco-friendly haven surrounded by nature, perfect for slowing down and breathing in the fresh air.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Sonia’s Sweets, where the famous sesame candy is a must-try, or stop by The Bakery in Iba for a comforting plate of Inongotan rice with mango and a glass of refreshing mango calamansi juice—a true taste of Zambales in every bite.

A Journey That Gives Back

NLEX Lakbay Norte is more than a scenic escape. It is  a boost for local economies and a celebration of the people, culture, and landscapes that make Central Luzon unforgettable. It’s a reminder that some of the country’s most remarkable adventures are just an expressway away.

This NLEX Lakbay Norte leg’s adventure is made even more memorable with the support of valued partners who kept the trip running smoothly and stylishly: Tesla Motor Philippines powered the convoy with quiet, clean electric rides; Green Cross ensured everyone stayed protected and fresh on the road; Belo kept travelers looking camera-ready from sunrise to sunset; Leslie Corporation added fun snacks for the long drives; TOPO Designs provided rugged yet functional gear perfect for surf sessions and mountain treks; Mentos offered a burst of freshness between stops; and Pocari Sweat kept adventurers hydrated under the warm Zambales sun.

Pack your bags, charge your cameras, and hit the road—because the North is calling, and SCTEX is your fast lane to unforgettable experiences.

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Senator Loren Legarda made a strong call to action for foresight-driven diplomacy and leadership during the Regional Foresight Conference on Emerging International Issues on August 27, 2025, at Seda Manila Bay, Parañaque City.

The conference, hosted by the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) of the Philippines in connection with the 2nd Retreat of Diplomatic Academies in Southeast Asia, highlighted the increasing recognition that foresight studies and future thinking must be integral to diplomatic training and the development of foreign policy.

“To speak of foresight in this context is not an academic exercise. It is the most practical expression of survival and the most strategic expression of leadership,” Legarda said.

Legarda stressed that Southeast Asian nations must strengthen their capacity to anticipate and prepare for pressing challenges such as climate change and environmental risks, technological disruptions, shifting global power dynamics and geopolitical rivalries, health crises and pandemics, and regional security and maritime issues, including the South China Sea.

Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Culture and Arts and an advocate of environmental protection and climate action, underscored the Philippines’ proactive role in environmental diplomacy.

She cited the Manila Call to Action on Climate Change, the country’s leadership in the Climate Vulnerable Forum and the V20 Group, as well as collaborations with global leaders, including Ban Ki-moon, Bill Gates, and Kristalina Georgieva in developing climate adaptation strategies.

In addition to environmental advocacy, the four-term senator highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy in fostering connections between nations. Legarda mentioned initiatives she spearheaded such as Sentro Rizal, a global network of cultural centers that brings Filipino arts, language, and heritage to the world (under the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, which she authored); the Philippine Studies Program, which affirms Filipinos as knowledge producers in the global academic community; and the country’s return to the Venice Biennale, the world’s foremost contemporary art and architecture exhibition.

She also mentioned that the Philippines will be the Guest of Honour country at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair, marking a significant moment for Southeast Asian cultural representation.

“Environmental diplomacy and cultural diplomacy are not separate pursuits. They are converging forces that give nations both the strength to endure and the power to inspire,” said Legarda.

The conference featured research presentations from participating diplomatic academies, created independently or in collaboration with academic institutions.

“You are the torchbearers of foresight. You bear the responsibility of anticipating change, of preparing with discipline, of envisioning with courage, and of listening with humility,” Legarda concluded, challenging the region’s diplomatic educators and future leaders. (30)

Legarda nanawagan para sa diplomasyang may malay sa hinaharap, itinataguyod ang pamumunong pangkalikasan at pangkultura sa kumperensiyang diplomatiko ng Timog‐silangang Asya

Nanawagan si Senadora Loren Legarda para sa diplomasyang may malay sa hinaharap at matatag na pamumuno o foresight-driven diplomacy and leadership sa ginanap na Regional Foresight Conference on Emerging International Issues noong Agosto 27, 2025 sa Seda Manila Bay, Parañaque City.

Ang kumperensiya, na inorganisa ng Foreign Service Institute (FSI) of the Philippines kaugnay ng 2nd Retreat of Diplomatic Academies in Southeast Asia, ay nagbigay-diin sa lumalawak na pagkilala na ang foresight studies at future thinking ay kailangang maging bahagi ng pagsasanay diplomatiko at pagbuo ng patakarang panlabas.

“Ang pagtalakay sa foresight sa ganitong konteksto ay hindi isang akademikong ehersisyo. Ito ang pinakapraktikal na pahayag ng pag‐survive at ang pinakaestratehikong anyo ng pamumuno,” ani Legarda.

Binigyang-diin niya na dapat palakasin ng mga bansa sa Timog‐silangang Asya ang kakayahang maghanda sa mga hamon gaya ng pagbabago ng klima, panganib sa kapaligiran, teknolohikal na pag‐aagwat, pagbabago sa pandaigdigang kapangyarihan, krisis sa kalusugan, pandemya, at mga usaping panseguridad sa rehiyon at karagatan, kabilang ang South China Sea.

Bilang Tagapangulo ng Senate Committee on Culture and Arts at masigasig na tagapagtaguyod ng kalikasan at klima, itinampok ni Legarda ang aktibong papel ng Pilipinas sa diplomasiyang pangkalikasan.

Binanggit niya ang Manila Call to Action on Climate Change, ang pamumuno ng bansa sa Climate Vulnerable Forum at V20 Group, pati na rin ang pakikipagtulungan sa mga pandaigdigang lider gaya nina Ban Ki‐moon, Bill Gates at Kristalina Georgieva sa pagbuo ng mga estratehiya sa climate adaptation.

Bukod sa adbokasiyang pangkalikasan, binigyang-halaga rin ni Legarda ang diplomasiyang pangkultura bilang susi sa mas malalim na ugnayan ng mga bansa. Ibinahagi niya ang mga inisyatibong kanyang pinangunahan tulad ng Sentro Rizal, isang pandaigdigang network ng mga sentrong pangkultura na nagtatampok ng sining, wika, at pamana ng Pilipinas; ang Philippine Studies Program na kinikilala ang mga Pilipino bilang tagalikha ng kaalaman sa pandaigdigang akademya; at ang pagbabalik ng bansa sa Venice Biennale, ang nangungunang eksibisyon sa kontemporaryong sining at arkitektura.

Ipinagmalaki rin ni Legarda na ang Pilipinas ang magiging Guest of Honour sa 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair, isang makasaysayang pagkakataon para sa representasyong pangkultura ng Timog‐silangang Asya.

“Hindi magkaibang landas ang diplomasiyang pangkalikasan at pangkultura. Ang dalawang ito ay nagsasanib na nagbibigay sa bansa ng tibay upang magpatuloy at lakas upang magbigay-inspirasyon,” ani Legarda.

Tampok sa kumperensiya ang mga presentasyon ng pananaliksik mula sa mga akademiyang diplomatiko, na isinagawa nang malaya o sa pakikipagtulungan sa mga institusyong pang-akademya.

“Kayo ang tagapagdala ng ilaw ng foresight. Tangan ninyo ang tungkulin na tuklasin ang pagbabago, maghanda nang may disiplina, mangarap nang may tapang, at makinig nang may kababaang-loob,” pagtatapos ni Legarda sa kanyang hamon sa mga guro at hinaharap na lider diplomatiko ng rehiyon. 

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Donna Patricia Manio

Makati City, Philippines — In a strategic collaboration that brings together inclusive finance and responsible real estate development, the CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI) (composed of CARD MBA, CARD, Inc., CARD MRI PROPERTY MANAGEMENT and CARD EMPC)  and Cadence Properties, the ICCP Group’s newest company, signed a joint venture agreement on August 6, 2025, at the Makati Sports Club. The partnership marks the formal establishment of a new company: Cadence-CARD Property Ventures, Inc. (CCPV).

In line with its goal to help reduce the national housing backlog, CCPV aims to develop thoughtfully planned, affordable, and high-quality residential communities for more Filipino families, beginning with its inaugural project in Bay, Laguna.

Guillermo D. Luchangco, Chairman and CEO of The ICCP Group, shares, “We are honored and very happy to now be able to collaborate with CARD MRI, which is known for its success for building grassroots economic empowerment. There are only very few organizations that are able to accomplish this. For me, today’s partnership between CARD MRI and Cadence Properties embodies a shared resolve to raise the standard of living and nurture sustainable communities for more Filipinos.”

Leonardo B. Dayao Jr., President and CEO of Cadence Properties and current Chairman of the Subdivision and Housing Developers Association (SHDA) also underscored the significance of the agreement. “This project will expand homeownership opportunities for the underserved income deciles, including CARD MRI members and beyond. We’re very eager to be able to help more families realize their dream of owning their own home.”

Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip, CARD MRI Founder and Chairman Emeritus, also attests to the partnership’s importance. “This is our first time working on a housing project—a dream come true not only for CARD MRI, but for many of our clients. A safe and secure home is more than just four walls and a roof—it is one of the foundations to break free from poverty. With it, families can dream bigger, work harder, and build a future filled with hope.”

With over 36 years of experience, The ICCP Group is a respected Philippine diversified conglomerate engaged in investment banking, venture capital, exhibition halls operations and management, and residential and industrial estate property development. Cadence Properties, its newest real estate arm, brings to the partnership deep expertise in building livable, sustainable communities.

CARD MRI, a mission-driven organization with a long track record of empowering Filipino families through microfinance, microinsurance, and livelihood programs, expands its reach through this collaboration—bridging social development with accessible housing. The organization currently has nearly 10 million clients across its various institutions.

Rooted in shared principles of nation-building, long-term value creation, and inclusive progress, CCPV reflects a forward-thinking approach to community development—one that carefully balances commercial viability with social impact.

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Manila, Philippines — Okada Manila has become the first integrated resort in the Philippines to adopt a comprehensive plant-based food policy, with support from international NGO Lever Foundation. The Forbes Travel Guide five-star-rated resort has committed to making 30% of menu offerings across all dining establishments plant-based by 2028.

This pledge covers the resort’s extensive culinary operations, which serve nearly 20,000 guests daily across its 30-hectare property and support nearly 10,000 employees. Okada Manila operates more than 20 diverse dining destinations — from casual Asian favorites to Italian fine dining and high-end Japanese cuisine — with Kappou Yoshi already leading the way, as more than 30% of its menu is plant-based.

“When we started talking about setting a 30% plant-based goal by 2028, it came from a simple place—care,” said Andreas Balla, Vice President for Food & Beverage at Okada Manila. “We care about our guests, our team, and the kind of future we’re helping shape. This isn’t just a menu change—it’s a step toward something better, and something we believe in. We want to continue offering the same level of care and quality our guests expect from Okada Manila, while also doing what is duly right.”

By setting a clear, time-bound target, Okada Manila aims to integrate plant-based dining into its broader sustainability strategy while maintaining its world-class culinary standards. This move comes as Filipino consumers increasingly seek nutritious and sustainable food options. A recent national survey by APAC research firm GMO Research found that 85% of Filipinos believe restaurants, hotels, and retailers should serve more plant-based foods, and 80% are more likely to support businesses that set clear goals to increase such offerings.

“The way we eat impacts the world more than we often realize,” said Chef Josef Teuschler, Culinary Director at Okada Manila. “This 30% plant-based goal by 2028 means a lot to me personally. By creating more plant-based options, we’re reducing our environmental footprint—but we’re also giving our guests and team members something truly meaningful: choice, nourishment, and a shared sense of responsibility. It’s not just a number; it’s a reflection of who we are and the future we want to help create.”

Lever Foundation, which partnered with the resort on the new policy, lauded Okada Manila’s leadership. “They didn’t just listen—they leaned in,” said Marielle Lagulay, Sustainability Program Manager at Lever Foundation. “This commitment is more than a policy; it’s people choosing to do better when given the chance. In a place as iconic as Okada Manila, that’s a hopeful sign of where we’re headed.”

The transition will begin with the employee cafeteria, which serves thousands of team members daily, before expanding to all dining outlets. The initiative complements existing sustainability programs under Okada Green Heart, including eliminating single-use plastics, rescuing and redistributing surplus food, sourcing ingredients locally and ethically, implementing energy-saving innovations, and supporting community gardens and biodiversity restoration.

Plant-based proteins have been shown to produce up to 90% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, use up to 90% less land and water, and generate about 50% less food waste than animal-based proteins—underscoring the positive impact of Okada Manila’s commitment to both people and the planet.

ABOUT LEVER FOUNDATION

Lever Foundation is a global NGO with staff operating across Asia, Europe, North America and Latin America. Lever Foundation works with leading companies to help upgrade their food sourcing for a more humane, safe and sustainable supply chain, focusing on upgraded animal protein and plant-based foods.

ABOUT OKADA MANILA

Okada Manila, a Forbes 5-star destination for six consecutive years in the Philippines and a Forbes VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality integrated resort, seamlessly blends unmatched hospitality, gaming, and entertainment across 30 breathtaking hectares. Known for its unique service philosophy, Okada Manila combines the warmth of Filipino hospitality with the precision of Japanese excellence, ensuring every guest feels truly special.

Guests can marvel at The Fountain, a world-renowned water choreography masterpiece, or enjoy the expansive gaming floor—the largest in the Philippines—featuring a wide array of table games and electronic gaming machines. Exclusive clubs like Perlas, Maharlika, and the VIP Club offer elite gaming experiences for discerning guests. For families, PLAY Kids’ Club and Thrillscape provide exciting and engaging entertainment options designed to cater to both developmental and recreational needs. The Sole Retreat and the Forbes 5-star-rated The Retreat Spa offer sanctuaries promoting wellness and relaxation. Culinary delights await at over 40 dining venues, and a variety of shopping options at The Promenade ensure convenience and a premium experience at your fingertips.

Business travelers will find state-of-the-art facilities for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE), offering well-appointed spaces equipped with the latest technology. Cove Manila, a world-class indoor beach club, serves as an exclusive venue for private events, providing a stunning backdrop for special occasions under a UV-protected dome. The Okada Manila Entertainment Group (OMEG) brings world-class performances to life, enriching the vibrant entertainment landscape.

Guests can stay in one of 1,001 accommodations, each designed for comfort and sophistication. Digital innovations, including the Okada Online Casino and the Okada Manila App, make it easier than ever to enjoy the integrated resort’s offerings. Unforgettable moments await at Okada Manila. Visit www.okadamanila.com to explore.

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