
A Quezon City bet, Asia Rose Simpson, was crowned Miss World Philippines 2026 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
At the age of 17, Simpson stood as the youngest contestant among 23 aspirants.
Her winning answer in the Q&A was breathtaking, acknowledging the role of social media in addressing mental health issues among youth.
Here’s the full transcription of the question and answer portion:
Question:
Do you believe social media has helped or hurt society?
Answer:
Mental health issues are on rise. One in seven children worldwide experience mental health disorders and the World Health Organization relays that 80% of adolescents don't meet the recommended levels of activity. That’s where SED initiative comes in, my sports and dance initiative that specifically advocates for the physical, mental, and emotional health of today's youth. Social media, while it can have so many benefits, it helps us all promote different businesses or organizations that helps us succeed. However, I think it has also been used as a crutch for our creativity, for our social skills. So let's use social media responsibly. Thank you.
She was crowned by Krishnah Gravidez (2025 Miss World Philippines) and Opal Suchata Chuangsri (incumbent Miss World 2025).
Simpson is set to represent the Philippines in the International Miss World pageant.

QUEZON CITY - The Quezon City Local Government Unit clarifies that there is no charge for passing through the Quezon City Memorial Circle Elevated Promenade.
The elevated promenade bridges between Quezon City Memorial Circle and Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center.
“The newly constructed Elevated Promenade along Elliptical Road serves as a vital link between Quezon City’s two largest green spaces — the Quezon Memorial Circle (QMC) and the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center (NAPWC),” according to the statement of the Quezon City Parks Development and Administration Department.
The QC LGU issued the clarification after a reported incident in which a ₱10.00 charge was requested to pass through the elevated promenade.
The city government states that any such collection is strictly unauthorized.
With reports from JP
Watch here to know more:

The crime rate in the Philippines drops to 24.32% compared to the record reported last January 2025, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The total number of cases for January 2026 is 2,449 focus crimes, which is higher compared to January 2025, garnering 3,236 cases.
“This is 787 cases fewer, or a 24.32 percent decrease,” according to the issued statement of the PNP
Moreover, the PNP also discloses the decline in the following focus crimes:

For the PNP Chief, PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., the decline rates signify that the community is getting safer.
“These figures tell us one thing—mas nagiging ligtas ang ating mga komunidad,” he said through the issued statement of the PNP on Facebook
With reports from JP and Lea
Watch here to know more:

The results are out!
The winners of the 68th Grammy Awards were revealed on February 1, 2026, in Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.
Kendrick Lamar is the big winner of the annual awards, securing the spot for Record of the Year, Best Rap Performance, and Best Rap Song.
The following key winners are as follows:

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Metropolitan Environmental Office North (DENR MEO North) has shown its support for an environment friendly initiative of Barangay 14, Caloocan City, converting a sidewalk filled with trash into an urban garden area.
Barangay officials are united in their commitment to this project as it serves as a strategic response to a longstanding problem regarding improper waste disposal along thoroughfares.
Aside from addressing the waste disposal habits of residents, this project provides an additional source of quality crops for the community.
The garden utilizes fertilizer made from biodegradable waste integrated into the soil.
The DENR MEO North is partnering with barangay officials and will provide additional seedlings to support the garden's productivity.
One of the office's aims is to raise environmental awareness. The office is equipped to conduct a series of Dalaw Turo sessions in the community.
Ultimately, the office believes that sufficient knowledge and active participation may lead to an environmentally friendly and sustainable future.