Good morning. Today’s issue starts with a warning: El Niño may not only dry up farms, it could also bring floods, higher food costs, and stronger storms. We also look at free RCBC transfers, the PSEi comeback, PH-Canada deals, AI robots, rare plants, and a tropical storm to watch.

Stay Sharp.

Big picture: The UN weather agency says El Niño is already here and could quickly become strong from July to September.

Why it matters: For the Philippines, Pagasa warned it may strengthen by August and become strong from September to November, raising risks for farms, power, water supply, and food prices.

Watch out for: This is not just a drought story. Experts say El Niño can also bring uneven weather, with some areas facing dry spells while others get floods, heavy rain, or stronger typhoons boosted by warmer seas.

Bottom line: The country is now preparing irrigation and water projects, but farmers may feel the first big hit.

The PSEi rose 1.02% to 6,188.03 as bargain hunting, easing inflation expectations, and the Philippines’ upper-middle-income status boosted investor confidence. Foreign investors posted ₱139.3 million in net inflows, while lower oil prices further improved the outlook for consumer spending and corporate earnings.

RCBC Waives InstaPay Fees

RCBC will offer 30 free InstaPay transfers monthly via the RCBC Pulz app starting July 4, for transactions of at least ₱100. The move follows BSP’s push to lower interbank transfer fees and supports wider adoption of digital banking among Filipinos.

PH, Canada Sign 4 New Agreements

The Philippines and Canada signed four agreements covering critical minerals, labor and migration, tourism, and cultural cooperation (2026–2031) during President Marcos Jr.'s visit. The deals aim to strengthen economic ties, boost workforce development, expand tourism, and deepen collaboration in mining and natural resources.

PLDT, DITO Seal Landmark Network-Sharing Deal

PLDT, Smart, and DITO signed a landmark infrastructure-sharing agreement to exchange access to cell towers, indoor network facilities, and submarine cables without leasing fees. The partnership, DITO’s first with a rival, aims to reduce costs, expand 5G coverage, and strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s reported multiday wedding celebration is underway at Madison Square Garden, with about 1,000 guests expected for today’s ceremony and reception under tight security. (Read more)

Yulo Brothers Lead PH Asian Games Gymnastics Team

Olympic champion Carlos Yulo and younger brother Eldrew will spearhead the Philippine men’s gymnastics team, aiming to secure a coveted team qualification spot for the Olympics through the Asian Games. (Read More)

Bretman Rock Finally Meets His Namesake

Bretman Rock revealed to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson that he was named after him and wrestler Bret Hart, surprising the Hollywood star during their heartwarming first meeting. (Read More)

South Korean businesses are expanding robot-powered and self-service stores to address labor shortages and rising wages. Owners say the model reduces costs, improves profits, and relies on customers' honesty. (Read more)

Japan plans to develop a homegrown AI model and deploy 10 million AI-powered robots by 2040, aiming to strengthen industries, address labor shortages, and reduce reliance on foreign technology. (Read more)

A United Nations expert panel warned AI is advancing faster than regulations and scientific understanding. It urged governments to strengthen oversight, citing risks from autonomous systems, misinformation, cyberattacks, and misuse. (Read more)

Researchers developed a wearable audio system that converts nearby robot movements into warning sounds. The technology helps workers detect approaching robots and improve safety without interrupting their tasks. (Read more)

Rare Plant Rediscovered on Mount Apo After 122 Years

A rare Philippine endemic plant last documented on Mount Apo in 1904 was rediscovered during wildlife monitoring. The finding confirms the species still survives in the protected natural park.

Bumble Bees Solve Classic Intelligence Test

Scientists found bumble bees solved a classic intelligence test by inventing a new way to reach a hidden reward without training, showing advanced problem-solving skills and adaptability.

Blood Test May Reveal the True Age of Your Organs

Scientists developed a blood test that estimates the biological age of major organs, helping predict future disease risks and potentially allowing earlier detection and prevention of serious health conditions.

AI Boom Drives Higher Data Center Emissions

A new study found data centers emitted more carbon dioxide than previously estimated in 2025. Researchers said growing AI use is increasing electricity demand, emissions, and water consumption worldwide.

🌪️ PAGASA monitors tropical storm that could intensify into a super typhoon and enter the Philippine area next week. (Read more)

⚖️ Ombudsman files plunder and anti-gift charges against Senator Rodante Marcoleta over alleged P75 million in undeclared private donations. (Read more)

🌺 Rare Rafflesia sighting in Kanlaon highlights protected park’s biodiversity despite ongoing volcanic unrest in Negros Island. (Read more)

🏛️ Impeachment court orders Vice President Sara Duterte to appear on July 6 trial in person or through counsel at Senate session hall. (Read more)

⚠️ Rep. Eli San Fernando blames low wages for high Filipino worker stress, calling it a structural issue driving mental health strain. (Read more)

Four people died during World Cup victory celebrations in Mexico City after massive crowds gathered following Mexico's win over Ecuador. Three victims reportedly died from suffocation, authorities said.

China Says ‘Personal Reasons’ Led to Beijing Plane Crash 

Chinese authorities identified the pilot who crashed a small plane into Beijing’s tallest building, saying personal reasons caused the incident. The pilot died, and no other casualties were reported.

Bear Spray Accident Sends Five to Hospital in Japan

Five people were hospitalized after a man accidentally discharged bear spray inside a post office in Nagoya, Japan. Authorities arrested the man on suspicion of obstructing business.

📝 Foreigner attacked in Palawan after alleged anti-LGBTQ+ slurs. (Read more)

📝 Clark staycation rental criticized over checkout inspection video. (Watch here)

📝 Before sunrise to sunrise, Alicia farmers brave heat to plant rice fields. (Read more)

📝 Viral house blessing controversy sparks Airbnb property ownership claims. (Watch here)