Harvard may run trade schools under Trump’s proposed $500M deal
The proposed $500M settlement would shift Harvard into an unprecedented role running trade schools in technical fields. The university has yet to confirm the plan, and its legality remains unsettled
WASHINGTON —
President Donald Trump said this week his administration is finalizing a $500 million settlement with Harvard University that would require the Ivy League institution to establish and operate a series of trade schools, a dramatic break from its centuries-old identity as a center of elite scholarship and research.
Trump described the initiative as a way to redirect higher education toward workforce needs, saying Harvard would run schools focused on artificial intelligence, engineering, and other technical training. The President called the settlement a resolution to months of disputes with the university. “Then their sins are forgiven,” he told reporters, without offering further detail on the governance structure or timeline of the proposed schools.
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Philippine economy under pressure: peso slumps, IMF trims outlook
The peso’s drop past P58 and the IMF’s lower 2025 forecast highlight how a flood-control scandal is shaking confidence in the Philippine economy
by AJPress
last week, continued to struggle this week as corruption concerns over flood-control projects rattled investor confidence and prompted the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to trim its
Baguio Mayor Magalong quits as ICI adviser; retired PNP chief Azurin to take over
Mayor Benjamin Magalong said he wanted to avoid conflict-of-interest concerns that may arise from his dual role as Baguio mayor and ICI adviser, citing this as the reason for his resignation from the watchdog group investigating public works projects.
by AJPress
created Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), citing concerns that his continued role might affect the body’s integrity.
PH lawmaker Zaldy Co resigns as flood-control probe intensifies
by AJPress
MANILA – Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co, a party-list lawmaker representing Ako Bicol, resigned on Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, as an independent commission pressed prosecutors to pursue graft and malversation charges over a flood-control project in Oriental Mindoro.
el clearance was revoked. At the time, Co said he intended to face the accusations. By then, he had already left the country for medical treatment, with earlier reports placing him in the United States. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla later told reporters that Co was in Spain, and the Philippine National Police confirmed that his security escorts had been recalled after his departure.
2025 growth forecast.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reference rate on Friday, September 26,
Discaya couple has testified before ICI, lawyer says
by AJPress
MANILA — The contractors at the center of the Philippines’ widening flood-control scandal have already given testimony before the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), their lawyer said Tuesday, Sept. 30, marking a new stage in an investigation that has shak-
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cash withdrawals put Land Bank under Senate probe in flood-control scandal
by AJPress
The resignation capped days of mounting pressure. On Sept. 26, Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III gave Co a deadline to return to the Philippines after his trav- u PAGE 3
Three days after Dy’s ultimatum and just hours after the In-
irregularities in flood-control projects in Bulacan. During the hearing, Syms Construction u PAGE 3
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. arrived in Bogo City near the epicenter of the September 30 earthquake, conducted site visits, talked to some of the affected residents and attended a situation briefing by disaster management officials. The president will ask lawmakers for emergency funds to help the communities affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that devastated Cebu. “I will be going to the Congress, the House and the Senate, so they can
emergency funds,” he said during a situation briefing at the Bogo City Hall. Malacañang photo
MANILA — The Philippine peso, which slipped past the P58 per U.S. dollar mark late
MANILA – Baguio City Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong has resigned as special adviser and investigator of the newly
MANILA — Senators pressed the Land Bank of the Philippines on Thursday, September 25, over why its Malolos Highway branch allowed a contractor to withdraw about P457 million in cash within two days, transactions now at the center of the Senate Blue Ribbon investigation into alleged
Pacifico “Curlee” and Cezarah Rowena “Sarah” Discaya PNA photo by Avito Dalan
Philippine economy under pressure...
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was P57.9180 per U.S. $1. Bloomberg data showed the peso hovering near P58.18 per US$1 on Saturday, its weakest since August. By October 2, traders said the peso’s volatility remained a “live trend,” with corruption headlines discouraging inflows and driving dollar demand.
Flood-control probe rattles markets
The Senate inquiry into anomalies in flood-control projects worth more than P545 billion has stirred investor caution. Former Department of Public Works and Highways engineers testified that contracts were overpriced, substandard, or never built, enabling huge kickbacks.
The scandal widened after the Court of Appeals froze 135 bank accounts and 27 insurance policies, while regulators traced hundreds more to suspicious transactions. The BSP also tightened rules on cash withdrawals, requiring stricter checks for transactions above P500,000.
Finance Secretary Ralph Recto warned that corruption in the program may have drained as much as P118.5 billion in economic value since 2023.
IMF cuts forecast
On October 2, the IMF lowered its 2025 Philippine growth outlook to 5.4 percent, down from 5.5 percent, citing “structural risks from governance concerns.” It warned that business confidence and foreign investment could weaken if scandals remain unresolved, noting that allegations of “ghost projects” erode trust in infrastructure spending.
While the Philippines remains among Asia’s faster-growing economies, the IMF said restoring public confidence is vital to sustain momentum.
Peso under double pressure
Analysts describe the peso as caught in a “double squeeze”: political risk at home and hawkish U.S. Federal Reserve signals abroad that are lifting the dollar. BusinessWorld reported that turnover in Manila’s spot market surged to U.S. $2.15 billion from U.S. $1.73 billion, reflecting heavier sell-offs. The peso’s weakness has spilled into equities, with the Philippine Stock Exchange index sliding to a six-month low.
Government response Recto acknowledged the
IMF’s downgrade but maintained that “fundamentals remain sound.” He pointed to moderating inflation and fiscal revenues on track, while citing reforms under the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) and the BSP’s cash-withdrawal rules as efforts to restore trust.
The administration has kept its 6–7 percent official growth target, banking on remittances, domestic demand, and infrastructure spending.
Confidence at stake
For households, a weaker peso makes fuel and food imports more expensive and raises debt costs, though remittances may stretch further for overseas Filipino worker families.
Economists caution that while the IMF’s 0.1-point cut is modest, the signal is significant. Repeated corruption headlines risk deterring investors, raising borrowing costs, and testing consumer confidence.
The peso’s slip past P58 and the IMF’s downgrade underscore how domestic scandals can magnify external pressures, leaving the economy exposed to both political shocks and global market swings. n
Discaya couple has testified...
en Congress and placed billions of pesos in public works spending under scrutiny.
Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya II and his wife, Sarah, appeared at a closed-door ICI hearing and disclosed details of alleged irregularities in flood-control contracts, according to their counsel, Atty.
Cornelio Samaniego III. The couple submitted ledgers and vouchers said to support their account and, he added, remain prepared to provide further information to the Department of Justice.
The ICI confirmed that the couple’s appearance coincided with its signing of a memorandum of agreement with the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), a step officials described as critical for tracing assets and sharing evidence in corruption cases.
Witness protection and contested status
The Discayas are currently under the DOJ’s Witness Protection Program, but Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remullahas emphasized they
are not designated as state witnesses — a status that would shield them from prosecution. He has pressed the couple to substantiate their allegations with documentary evidence.
Remulla has also said the Discayas may have controlled more than P200 billion in government contracts over several years, underscoring the reach of their contracting business and the potential scale of the alleged anomalies.
Expanding money trail
Investigators have already frozen hundreds of bank accounts and real estate holdings tied to the couple and their associates. The AMLC–ICI partnership is expected to widen these measures, enabling investigators to move more quickly to preserve assets while audits and case-building continue.
Referral to the Ombudsman
A day earlier, the ICI made its first referral to the Office of the Ombudsman, recommending possible charges of graft, malversation and falsification stemming from a P289.5-mil-
Baguio Mayor Magalong quits...
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Magalong stepped down on September 26, 2025, just eleven days after his appointment. He said that while he denied any conflict of interest, his dual role as mayor and investigator could cast doubt on the ICI’s independence.
lion road-dike project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. Among those flagged for review was former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, who resigned his congressional seat the same day. Co has denied wrongdoing, and the Ombudsman has yet to decide whether to pursue formal charges.
Optics and public perception
Sarah Discaya’s finger-heart gesture outside the DOJ a few days ago went viral online, prompting her lawyer to clarify that it was misinterpreted and that the couple remains committed to cooperating with authorities.
What investigators will scrutinize
Officials will now assess whether the Discayas’ testimony withstands documentary cross-checking and whether it leads to additional asset freezes under the AMLC–ICI agreement. At the same time, the Ombudsman’s review of the Mindoro referral is seen as an early indicator of how aggressively prosecutors will pursue the cases. n
The concern stemmed from the fact that the ICI is mandated to investigate public works and flood-control projects nationwide, including those in Baguio City and the Cordillera region.
As mayor, Magalong oversees local projects that could fall within the commission’s scope. Even if he had no direct involvement in awarding contracts, his simultaneous role as investigator risked creating the perception that he was reviewing projects tied to his own administration.
“I do not want my presence to compromise the credibility of the commission,” Magalong said. “All my actions have been aboveboard and consistent with the law, but I believe stepping aside is the best way to protect the integrity of this process.”
Azurin named as replacement
Malacañang confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. accepted the resignation and appointed retired Philippine National Police chief Rodolfo “Jun” Azurin Jr. to replace Magalong.
According to the Office of
the President, Azurin will assume his duties as ICI special adviser and investigator once he concludes his personal and administrative arrangements.
The Palace thanked Magalong for his “service and contributions” during his brief tenure, noting that “his efforts in safeguarding the integrity and credibility of the Commission have been vital to the government’s campaign against corruption in infrastructure projects.”
It added that the administration is confident Azurin’s “experience and leadership will further strengthen the Commission’s mandate to uphold accountability and transparency in the use of public funds.”
From PNP chief to infrastructure watchdog
Rodolfo “Jun” Azurin Jr. is a retired police general, born in Tarlac and raised in Benguet.
A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy’s Class of 1989, known as “Makatao,” he rose through the ranks of the Philippine National Police, serving in both regional commands and national headquarters.
He was appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as the 28th Chief of the PNP in 2022, a post he held until his retirement in 2023.
During his term, he oversaw internal reforms that required senior officers to submit courtesy resignations as part of efforts to clean up the force.
About the ICI
The ICI was created through Executive Order No. 94 on September 11, 2025, to investigate alleged anomalies in flood-control and infrastructure projects dating back to 2015. It has subpoena powers, may compel testimony, and can recommend cases for prosecution to the Department of Justice or the Office of the Ombudsman.
The commission is chaired by former Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes Jr., with former Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson and auditing executive Rossana Fajardo as members. Brian Keith Hosaka serves as executive director.
Support for Magalong’s decision
The Palace Communications Office described Magalong’s resignation as “unfortunate” but assured the public that the commission remains fully functional.
The Mayors for Good Governance coalition also expressed support for him, praising his decision as consistent with his reputation for integrity.
The ICI is expected to play a central role in restoring trust in infrastructure spending amid scrutiny of flood-control projects worth billions of pesos.
Magalong, who remains Baguio mayor, said he will continue supporting anti-corruption efforts “in whatever capacity possible.” n
Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong (left) resigned as ICI adviser citing conflict-of-interest concerns. Retired Philippine National Police chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. was named as his replacement.
Photos from City Government of Baguio and Philippine National Police
Filipino American Ritchie Cajulis is new City of Walnut mayor
Filipino American Ritchie Cajulis was appointed Walnut mayor on Sept. 24, 2025, joining Antonio “Tony” Cartagena as one of two Filipinos to have held the city’s top leadership role
by AJPress
WALNUT, CALIF. – The City of Walnut entered a new chapter of leadership after the City Council, during its annual rotation on September 24, 2025, appointed Ritchie Cajulis as mayor.
Walnut’s five councilmembers serve staggered fouryear terms, and each year they select from among themselves who will serve as mayor. The mayor presides at council meetings, represents the city at official and community functions, and signs city documents, while day-to-day administration remains under the City Manager.
Cajulis’s appointment is a milestone for the Filipino American community in the San Gabriel Valley. Census-derived estimates show about 3,600 Filipino residents in Walnut, roughly 12 percent of the city’s 28,000 residents, forming a visible part of the city’s majority-Asian population.
Cajulis and his family have
lived in Walnut for more than two decades. He earned his degree in Electronics and Communications Engineering from Don Bosco Technical College in Manila, Philippines, and now works as an IT analyst at a major law firm. Before joining the City Council in 2022, Cajulis served on the Parks and Recreation Commission, where he supported projects such as the Walnut Life Block Party, an event designed to showcase small and local businesses, and the Diversity Plaza project at Creekside Park. He has also been a regular volunteer at the city’s annual Walnut Family Festival, reflecting his steady engagement with civic life.
Beyond his work in city government, Cajulis is deeply involved with the community as a parishioner at Saint Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Church. He is active in ministries ranging from the adult basketball league to ushering and church liturgical environment projects, as well as other parish activities. His
civic and parish commitments reflect the blend of professional expertise and community service that he brings to his role as mayor. In outlining his vision for the city, Cajulis has emphasized the importance of building on Walnut’s existing city services while preserving its natural beauty and open spaces. He has also pointed to improving both public safety and cyber security as key priorities, while steering the long-term development of a downtown area to support residents and local businesses.
Cajulis follows in the footsteps of Antonio “Tony” Cartagena, a Filipino American leader originally from Basilan, Philippines, who served multiple terms on the Walnut City Council and was appointed mayor in 2002, 2006, 2010, and 2013 before retiring in 2016. Cartagena was widely recognized for his civic service, with a professional career that included working as a Los Angeles County finanu PAGE 4
PH lawmaker Zaldy Co resigns...
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dependent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) submitted its first referral to the Office of the Ombudsman, Co announced he was stepping down.
In his letter addressed to Dy, Co called the decision “irrevocable” and effective immediately. He cited a “real, direct, grave and imminent threat” to his family’s safety and what he described as an “evident denial of my right to due process of law.”
The House confirmed receipt of the letter. Within hours, Dy announced that the chamber’s ethics committee would end its investigation, saying such complaints apply only to sitting members. “We accept his resignation,” Dy said, but stressed that Co “still has to return and face the allegations.”
Allegations under investigation
On the same day Co resigned, the ICI filed a 32-page report with the Ombudsman recommending graft, malversation, and falsification charges against Co and De-
partment of Public Works and Highways officials.
The case centers on a P289.5-million road dike project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, where investigators alleged contractors used substandard sheet piles and flagged procurement irregularities. The Ombudsman will determine whether to pursue charges.
Co’s defense
Co has denied benefiting from the projects. He has maintained that budget allocations were approved collectively in Congress and said he received no personal financial gain. In his resignation letter, he claimed that due process had been ignored and that his family faced serious threats.
Although he has been abroad for weeks, Co previously told reporters he intended to return and face proceedings. His resignation, however, was announced only after the ICI made its findings public.
Fallout beyond Congress
The resignation halts the House ethics proceedings but does not end outside in-
P457m cash withdrawals put Land Bank...
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Trading owner Sally Santos confirmed she withdrew P457 million in cash and said similar large transactions were processed by the same branch. Senators Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan and committee chair Panfilo “Ping” Lacson confronted LandBank Malolos Highway branch head Ma. Lilibeth Lim on how the withdrawals were permitted. Lim said the bank followed procedure after funds were credited through the government’s payment workflow and emphasized that reporting obligations apply to large transactions.
vestigations. Remulla said Co must “face the music” and respond to the accusations before prosecutors. The Ako Bicol party-list is expected to nominate a replacement for his vacated seat.
For now, Co’s Sept. 29 resignation stands as the most significant political fallout from the ICI’s early investigations, underscoring the commission’s growing reach in scrutinizing public works spending.
The accusations against him originate from the ICI’s referral to the Ombudsman and remain as allegations at this time. n
Documents presented at the Senate showed two separate cash withdrawals each totaling P457 million, recorded on March 24, 2025, and July 3, 2025, along with other sameday cash withdrawals of P180 million, P141 million, P299 million, and P65 million. Senators said the pattern raised red flags, particularly because the funds were proceeds of Department of Public Works and Highways payments for projects now under scrutiny.
LandBank officials explained the government’s standard disbursement process. After the Bureau of the Treasury issues a Notice of Cash Allocation, the agency generates a List of Due and Demandable Accounts Payable–Advice to Debit Account (LDDAP-ADA), which instructs the bank to credit supplier accounts. LandBank legal officer Rafael Yap said the bank complies with reporting requirements under the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) but stressed that reports filed with the Anti-Money Laundering Council are confidential and cannot be disclosed publicly.
The LDDAP-ADA system,
created under Department of Budget and Management and Bureau of the Treasury guidelines, consolidates accounts payable and directs banks to debit government accounts to settle obligations with contractors and suppliers. Once credited, suppliers may opt to withdraw funds in cash or through checks, subject to verification.
Lawmakers also pointed to the AMLA threshold that requires banks to submit covered transaction reports for cash transactions exceeding P500,000 in a single banking day, and to report suspicious transactions regardless of amount. Senators questioned why transactions of this magnitude did not trigger additional scrutiny, given the risks of diversion or money laundering.
The withdrawals are part of a wider probe into alleged kickbacks and ghost projects tied to flood-control works in Bulacan dating back several years. Two former DPWH engineers have testified that projects were overpriced or substandard to accommodate illicit payments to public officials. Those named in testimonies, including lawmakers, have strongly denied wrongdoing.
Authorities have begun restricting access to suspected proceeds. On September 16, the Court of Appeals granted the Anti-Money Laundering Council a freeze order on assets linked to individuals and entities under investigation, initially covering 135 bank accounts and 27 insurance policies, with more accounts added later.
As of September 26, 2025, the Senate has asked LandBank to submit complete records of the Malolos Highway branch transactions. The bank maintained that it processed withdrawals in line with government instructions and legal requirements. No charges have been filed against LandBank officials in relation to the withdrawals, while the Blue Ribbon Committee and law enforcement agencies continue to investigate. The case underscores how large-scale government disbursements are vulnerable to diversion without stronger safeguards. Senators said the probe aims not only to trace accountability in the flood-control controversy but also to tighten financial controls over public infrastructure spending. n
The Land Bank of the Philippines Malolos Highway branch is under Senate scrutiny after revelations that contractors linked to the P545-billion flood-control scandal withdrew hundreds of millions of pesos in cash within days. File photo from Land Bank of the Philippines
Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co.
Photo courtesy of House Press and Public Affairs Bureau
LOOMING CYCLONE. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) holds a press briefing on Tropical Storm Paolo (international name Matmo) in Quezon City on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025. Paolo, the country's 16th tropical cyclone this year, was estimated based on all available data at 530 km. east of Infanta, Quezon as of 2 p.m. and it is expected to make landfall over southern Isabela or northern Aurora on Friday (Oct. 3). PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
Harvard may run trade schools under Trump’s...
PAGE 1
An unconventional role Harvard’s role in running trade schools would be unprecedented for the 388-yearold university, whose reputation rests on academic prestige, professional schools in law and medicine, and global research output. While the university already manages advanced professional programs, the administration’s proposal would place it directly in the realm of blue-collar vocational training, a role rarely linked to the Ivy League.
A standoff behind the deal
The negotiations follow a bitter clash between the ad-
ministration and Harvard.
Earlier this year, the White House froze billions in research grants and threatened to curb federal contracts and international student access.
Last month, a federal judge struck down the funding freeze, ruling it violated constitutional and administrative law principles.
Trump has also cited separate settlements with other universities, including Columbia and Brown. Those agreements involved financial payments only and did not include operating trade schools.
Harvard’s silence and concerns
Harvard had not issued a public statement confirming Trump’s description of the deal. In a separate filing last week, the university contested federal findings that it was “deliberately indifferent” to antisemitic incidents on campus, saying the process was flawed and punitive.
Critics argue the proposed trade school mandate could challenge academic independence and set a precedent for federal influence over curriculum. Supporters within the administration frame it as a corrective to elite institutions, aligning them more closely with national workforce needs. (AJPress)
Filipino American Ritchie Cajulis...
PAGE 3
cial services supervisor and as an educator.
Together, Cartagena and Cajulis highlight the growing civic participation of Filipino Americans in local government, contributing to Walnut’s history of shared leadership and diverse representation.
Located in eastern Los Angeles County, Walnut is rec-
ognized as one of the region’s most livable suburban communities. The city’s population is just over 28,000, with a median household income above $108,000 and one of the highest levels of educational attainment in the San Gabriel Valley, as more than half of its residents hold at least a bachelor’s degree. Walnut’s demographics show a composition of roughly 63 percent Asian,
20 percent Hispanic or Latino, 10 percent White non-Hispanic, 4 percent African American, and 3 percent from other racial groups.
The mayoral transition underscores Walnut’s practice of rotating leadership annually, giving each councilmember an opportunity to help shape the city’s direction while reflecting the diversity of its residents. n
Vico Sotto
and Manny Jacinto named among TIME’s most influential rising stars
TIME Magazine has included Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto and Filipino Canadian actor Manny Jacinto in its TIME100 Next 2025, recognizing them among the world’s most influential emerging leaders and artists
by AJPress
MANILA — Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto and Filipino Canadian actor Manny Jacinto have been named to TIME Magazine’s TIME100 Next 2025, an annual list spotlighting emerging leaders, artists, and changemakers whose influence is expected to grow in the years ahead.
The recognition places them alongside global figures shaping politics, culture, and innovation.
Vico Sotto: Reform-minded governance
Sotto, who has been serving as mayor of Pasig City since 2019, was listed in the Leaders category. His profile was written by Nobel laureate journalist Maria Ressa, who described him as a young politician confronting the entrenched system of dynastic politics and corruption in the Philippines.
Ressa highlighted Sotto’s efforts in practicing “radical transparency” through initiatives such as livestreamed government bidding processes, a 24/7 citizen complaints hotline, and reforms that eliminated padded costs in public contracts. He was also commended for his data-driven management during the COVID-19 pandemic, where aid was distributed based on need rather than political loyalty.
For many observers, Sotto’s
inclusion reflects how local leaders can set national examples by introducing systemic reforms even within limited jurisdictions.
Manny Jacinto: Filipino Canadian actor breaking barriers
Jacinto, who was born in Manila and raised in Canada, was recognized in the Artists category. His tribute was written by Emmy-winning writer and producer Alan Yang, who praised Jacinto’s versatility as a performer and his personal character.
Best known for his breakout comedic role in NBC’s The Good Place, Jacinto has since taken on diverse projects including Disney’s The Acolyte and the fantasy comedy Freakier Friday. Yang described him as a rare combination of “talent and kindness,” noting that his presence in Hollywood continues to expand the space for Asian representation in mainstream media.
Significance of the recognition
The recognition of Sotto and Jacinto highlights how Filipinos are shaping two vital arenas—public service and the arts.
Sotto’s inclusion validates the idea that reform can take root even in local politics. His emphasis on transparency, accountability, and citizen participation presents a model of governance that resonates far
beyond Pasig, challenging the dominance of dynasties and patronage-driven politics. Jacinto’s rise, meanwhile, reflects the growing visibility of Filipino talent in international entertainment. At a time when Hollywood is reckoning with inclusivity, his versatility and integrity as an actor strengthen the case for broader Asian representation and spotlight the Filipino diaspora’s contributions to culture.
Other Filipinos on TIME’s influential lists
While Sotto and Jacinto are the only Filipinos in the TIME100 Next 2025, they join a lineage of Filipinos and Filipino Americans who have previously earned recognition from TIME.
Among them is Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa, who was named to the TIME100 in 2019 and earlier honored as part of the magazine’s 2018 Persons of the Year, “The Guardians,” for her fight for press freedom.
In the cultural sphere, Olivia Rodrigo was included in TIME100 Next 2021 and later named TIME’s Entertainer of the Year, celebrated for her impact as a Filipino American singer-songwriter at the top of global charts.
The inclusion of Sotto and Jacinto this year extends this tradition, underscoring the continuing presence of Filipinos in global conversations on governance and the arts. n
Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto and Filipino Canadian actor Manny Jacinto File photos
FeAtures OPiniOn
Endure corruption or rise above it
THE Philippine flood-control scandal has become more than a test of institutions; it is a litmus test of how much abuse a nation is willing to tolerate.
Corruption in the Philippines is no longer an aberration. It has become a recurring feature of political life, repeating across administrations and generations. Governments change, scandals mutate, names come and go, yet the narrative remains unchanged.
The current flood-control scandal has already occupied months of Senate hearings, global media coverage, and everyday conversations, its scale too large and its details too unsettling to fade quickly.
Confronted with a controversy of this magnitude, the nation is compelled not only to demand accountability but also to reflect on what it reveals about its own tolerance for abuse.
Testimony before the Senate and findings from government audits have drawn attention to a flood-control program worth more than P500 billion. Legislators have questioned padded contracts and unusual amount of cash
THE Philippines wasn’t born in recognition — it was born in revolution. And it’s time we wrote that truth with clarity, pride, and fire.
Thirty years ago, on October 21, 1995, we inaugurated Gintong Kasaysayan, Gintong Pamana — a 150foot mural that took eight months to complete and was consecrated to the legacy of Larry Itliong and the Dela-
withdrawals. The Anti-Money Laundering Council has frozen accounts, and what began as a Senate probe has widened into one of the largest corruption cases in years - with suspicions reaching not only contractors and government employees, but also politicians who may have benefited from the scheme. The details are contemporary, but the pattern is familiar. Extravagance has long carried political consequence in the Philippines.
Ferdinand Marcos was ousted in 1986 after revelations of hidden wealth fueled the People Power revolt. Joseph Estrada fell in 2001 as public anger over gambling payoffs and lavish spending culminated in mass protests.
Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s administration was rocked by the NBN–ZTE scandal, Janet Lim-Napoles became the face of the pork barrel controversy, and now flood-control contracts are under scrutiny.
Restoring the Filipino spirit, one exile at a
no Manongs. Painted when I was just 22, it was my first city-commissioned mural, shaped by interviews over meals at the MANILA Restaurant in Delano. Their stories didn’t just guide the brush — they sparked a movement.
From those conversations emerged the Larry Itliong Day Organizing Committee (LIDOC), a name that restored the long-erased “OC” from AWOC. Founding members — Uncle Roy, Helen Brown, Tita Remy Geaga, and Leo
Each episode underscores a troubling cycle: leaders may fall, but the system that enables abuse endures.
While public anger has sometimes toppled
time
Pandac — formed a coalition rooted in truth and remembrance.
The Manongs were unequivocal: “Larry Itliong was our hero. He united us. He’s the reason we succeeded in the Grape Strike.”
Larry spoke nine Filipino languages, plus Cantonese, Japanese, and Spanish. His words moved hearts into action. Though Chavez’s terms were initially rejected, it was Larry who persuaded AWOC
leaders, it has not dismantled the structures that permit corruption to flourish.
The danger lies not only in the scale of each
Why people flaunt their wealth and what we can do instead
Money Matters
IN recent weeks, headlines have been filled with public outrage, not only about how flood-control funds were used, but also about the way some relatives of politicians and contractors displayed their wealth online.
ROGER LAGMAY ORIEL Publisher & Chairman
Videos of luxury cars, designer items and lavish lifestyles circulated on YouTube and social media, which fueled anger at a time when many communities continue to struggle with basic needs.
This reaction is not new.
Whenever wealth is flaunted in the middle of public hardship, it sparks controversy.
This behavior may look like arrogance, but economics provides a clearer way to understand it.
Over a hundred years ago,
an economist named Thorstein Veblen came up with an idea that still makes sense today. In his 1899 book The Theory of the Leisure Class, he introduced the term ‘conspicuous consumption.’ He said people often buy things not just for their use, but to show them off as symbols of wealth and status.
Social language For example, a luxury bag that costs P500,000 can carry the same items as a bag that
applicable law; and is not the subject of any litigation or claim that might give rise to any litigation.
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PAGE 7
Henry Ong
Commentary
Eliseo Art Silva
Endure corruption or rise above it...
6
scandal but in their repetition.Outrage surfaces briefly, hearings dominate headlines, promises of reform follow.
Then the public’s attention fades until the next revelation arrives. With each cycle, impunity deepens and shame recedes. Over time, corruption is no longer seen as disruption to governance but as part of its very structure.
“Corruption is not a flaw in the system but the system itself,” one political scientist observed. Leaders who display ill-gotten wealth without consequence grow bolder, while public funds diverted to vanity projects erode essential services.
Philosophers and political
theorists have long debated human nature, whether people are essentially good but corrupted by systems or inherently flawed and restrained only by rules. Whichever view one holds, both agree that external checks are vital. When accountability collapses, misconduct thrives.
Psychologist Carl Rogers described the tension between the “ideal self,” who we aspire to be, and the “real self,” who emerges when unchecked. That struggle plays out not only within individuals but also within nations.
The Philippines now lives in this tension: its ideal self grounded in justice and dignity, its default self resigned to indulgence and impunity.
Each scandal tests which self will prevail.
History has shown the fall of leaders undone by excess and hubris. Nations, too, can chart a different course when citizens refuse to normalize corruption. The cycle can be broken not by outrage alone, but by commitment, discipline and the patient work of accountability.
The Philippines, once again at a crossroads, faces a choice. It can continue to endure corruption as a way of life. Or it can begin the long, difficult work of rising above it.
Breaking free will take more than governance; it will require a cultural shift strong enough to redefine public life.
(AJPress)
Why people flaunt their wealth...
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costs P5,000. The difference is not in what it does, but in what it shows. The more expensive bag simply sends a louder message that says ‘I belong to a higher class’.
Veblen’s point is that this kind of spending is not just wasteful or irrational. It is actually deliberate. People use goods as a kind of social language. The bag, the car, or the designer clothes do not matter much for their use but more for the message they send to others.
Today, conspicuous consumption is more visible than ever, but the stage has changed. What people once showed off at social gatherings is now broadcast daily on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.
Posts about new cars, vacation photos, or fine-dining experiences are not just about sharing moments but signals. Every like or comment is applause like a quick validation of success.
Conspicuous consumption may grab attention, but it also comes with risks. One risk is financial strain. A lot of what we see online is not always backed by real money because it can be a vacation booked on credit, a gadget paid in installments, or lifestyle upgrades that go way beyond what income can support. On the surface, it looks like success, but underneath, it can weaken financial security.
Another risk is the cycle of constant upgrading. A purchase that feels impressive today can start to look ordinary tomorrow. To stay noticed, people feel the pressure to buy more, and because each new purchase only gives a
moment of pleasure, the expenses keep piling up while the happiness fades quickly.
Backlash
There is also reputational risk. In times of crisis, public displays of wealth can backfire. Instead of admiration, they invite criticism and outrage. The very signals meant to elevate status can end up damaging credibility instead. If signaling is part of human nature, the goal isn’t to erase it but to point it to a better direction. The real question is what kinds of signals really matter?
For ordinary people, the takeaway is simple. Don’t confuse flaunting with financial security. What looks like abundance on Instagram may actually be debt in real life. For leaders, the lesson is even sharper. In a country where inequality is high, showing off luxury is not just insensitive. It can also quickly damage credibility.
Perhaps there is a better way to use visibility. Instead of flaunting consumption, social media can be a platform to highlight value creation. Entrepreneurs who share how they built their businesses, or professionals who post about their educational achievements, send signals that last much longer than showing off an expensive purchase. These are signals with substance, not just style.
Modesty can send a powerful message too. Choosing not to show off, even when you can afford to, shows real confidence because it tells people your self-worth is not tied to possessions. In a society that is quick to envy and criticize, quiet strength often earns more trust than loud extrava-
Restoring the Filipino spirit...
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gance.
This is why many of the country’s wealthiest families practice what is sometimes called ‘quiet wealth.’ Their assets may be vast, but their public signals are subtle. In the long run, modesty communicates confidence more effectively than display of wealth ever could.
Status Status also doesn’t need to come from what you own. It can come from what you build. Creating a business or supporting local communities generates reputational capital that lasts longer than any luxury item. Contribution and creation are signals that outlive consumption because they add real value, not just appearances.
The same goes for businesses. Companies that reinvest profits, keep their balance sheets healthy and focus on long-term growth send stronger signals than those that rely on loud promotions.
The lesson is simple. Real wealth is not what turns heads today. It’s about what holds value tomorrow. What you achieve and what you give will always outlast what you show off. (Inquirer.net)
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * *
Henry Ong is a registered financial planner of RFP Philippines. Stock data and tools were provided by First Metro Securities. To learn more about investment planning, attend 113th batch of RFP Program this October 2025. To register, e-mail at info@ rfp.ph.
to unite. His leadership wasn’t just strategic — it was visionary.
In the mural, a Babaylan holds a lighted dish above Larry’s portrait, invoking ancestral presence and designating him as the central figure. That moment marked the first known Larry Itliong Day celebration in the U.S. The mural’s impact was immediate — it helped catalyze and clinch the 2002 designation of Historic Filipinotown in Los Angeles, the naming of the Itliong-Vera Cruz Bridge in San Diego (2014), the Itliong-Vera Cruz Middle School in Union City (2015), AB 123 (2014), which added Larry’s story to California’s curriculum, and the signing of Larry Itliong Day as a state holiday in 2015.
This isn’t just art — it’s a decolonial archive. A civic ritual. To paint is to remember. To remember is to resist.
Since then, I’ve had the honor of designing key destinations in Historic Filipinotown: Unidad Park with its Dap-ay learning circle, yo-yo walkway, Visayan tattoo floral play area, and terraced garden; the Shrine of Filipino Saints at St. Columban Church; and the Eastern and Western Gateways that mark the neighborhood with pride and permanence. Each piece is a brushstroke in the long mural of history. Each monument is a memory made visible.
But this visibility did not begin with recognition — it began with exile. They did not leave the Philippines. The Philippines left them.
Not in blood, but in spirit. Not in geography, but in soul. When the land no longer speaks the language of its
people, when its systems no longer reflect its stories, who would not seek air and authorship elsewhere? The Filipino diaspora was not born of abandonment — it was born of remembrance. They left not to forget, but to carry the Philippines where it could still breathe and emit ancestral light.
Our homeland, once radiant with the light of Asia’s first republic, now flickers under borrowed glow. Colonized not only by foreign powers, but by foreign values, foreign priorities, foreign dreams. Our bookstores overflow with foreign authors while Filipino voices are silenced in their own soil. Even our toys fail to reflect our children’s faces, our homes, our heritage. Where is the Filipina doll with almond eyes and brown skin? The carabao plushie? The bahay kubo dollhouse with capiz windows and maritime rooftops? Where is the Christmas banner that proudly says Maligayang Pasko — not Merry Christmas, mass-produced far from our shores?
The soil still bears our names. But the systems do not.
If the Filipino sun on our 1898 flag was meant to reflect the radiance of a sovereign people, how do we shine again when our light is outsourced?
So they left. To remember. To resist. To restore.
In exile, Filipinos became the keepers of memory, the guardians of culture, the lifeline of a nation that once turned its back. In California, Hawai‘i, New York, Las Vegas, and beyond, they built communities where Tagalog, Ilocano, and Visayan are still spoken. Where parol lanterns glow in December. Where the stories of the Babaylan and
Gabriela Silang are retold in classrooms, union halls, and murals. They organized labor strikes. Taught ethnic studies. Sent remittances. Raised children who know the taste of pancit and the rhythm of tinikling
And still, they send love home — in prayers, in balikbayan boxes, in advocacy for disaster relief and human rights. In stories told to children who have never touched our shores but carry its spirit in their bones.
This is not a condemnation. It is a reckoning.
To restore the Filipino spirit, we must name what was lost: authorship, sovereignty, soul. We must honor those who, in leaving, became the lifeline.
Let us restore the Filipino spirit — one exile, one mural, one Larry Itliong Day, one act of remembrance at a time. Let us urge our youth to build a Philippines worth staying for. So we may shine again like the June 12, 1898 Filipino Sun — with a human face, sovereign, luminous, and truly Filipino.
Happy Filipino American History Month!
* * *
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
*
* *
Eliseo Art Silva is a Filipino artist based in Los Angeles and Manila whose murals and paintings reclaim history, elevate diasporic narratives, and ignite civic dialogue. Best known for the Filipino American Mural in LA and the Talang Gabay Gateway to Filipinotown, Silva fuses myth, scholarship, and activism to restore Filipino identity and authorship to the heart of national and global discourse.
HISTORY MADE. The Alas Pilipinas men’s national volleyball team is honored at the Senate on Wednesday, October 1, for its 19th place finish – among 32 nations – in the FIVB World Championship 2025. The team made history by beating Egypt, 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21, for its first ever win in World Championship history. PNA photo by Avito Dalan
Romualdez, Co, and Villar to be subpoenaed by the ICI amid probe into flood control mess
by Melanie Uson Philstar.com
THE Independent Commission for Infrastructure will summon former House speaker Martin Romualdez, ex-Ako Bicol party-list rep. Zaldy Co, and Sen. Mark Villar amid the investigation on anomalous flood control projects.
ICI executive director Brian Keith Hosaka confirmed to the media on Wednesday,
Oct. 1, that the three officials will be invited to attend the hearing on the probe into the flood control projects.
Summons for Romualdez and Co were issued during the first part of its hearing. When asked about the freezing of the assets of Romualdez, Hosaka said the former speaker was not yet included in the recommendation to the Office of the Ombudsman.
“What we wrote to AMLC
(Anti-Money Laundering Council) was with regard to the freezing of assets of the persons probably liable, the ones we filed in the Ombudsman last Monday,” Hosaka explained.
Meanwhile, Villar will be summoned in connection with his tenure as the former Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways from 2016 to 2021.
Visayas rattled by strong quake: Cebu casualties mount, heritage church hit
CEBU — A powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck off northern Cebu on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, killing at least 69 people, injuring more than 140, and damaging homes, schools, and a centuries-old church, according to disaster officials and international reports. Epicenter and intensity
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said the quake occurred at 9:59 p.m., with its epicenter about 17 kilometers northeast of Bogo City at a depth of 20 kilometers. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the same magnitude and location.
The tremor was felt strongly across Cebu, Bohol, Negros, and Leyte. Residents rushed outdoors as after-
shocks shook the region. A tsunami warning was issued for parts of Central Visayas but later lifted after no abnormal sea-level changes were detected.
Casualties and damage
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported 69 deaths and more than 140 injuries by Wednesday. Wire agencies including Reuters and the Associated Press cited similar or slightly higher figures as rescue operations continued.
Fatalities were concentrated in northern Cebu towns such as Medellin, where debris from collapsed buildings killed residents. Firefighters were also injured when a station wall gave way.
Damage extended beyond homes to schools, municipal offices, bridges, and roads. Power and communication
Court closes De Lima drug case as Muntinlupa judge reaffirms acquittal
by AJPress
MANILA — On October 1, 2025, the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 204 formally closed the last drug case against Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima after earlier reaffirming on June 27, 2025 her acquittal and that of her former aide Ronnie Dayan, ending nearly eight years of litigation in one of the country’s most closely watched prosecutions.
From detention to acquittal
De Lima, a former senator and justice secretary, was arrested in 2017 and accused of benefiting from the illegal drug trade inside the New Bilibid Prison. She repeatedly denied the charges, calling them politically motivated.
Three separate drug cases were filed against her. Two were dismissed in 2021 and 2023. The third, which alleged conspiracy to commit drug trading, was resolved in May 2023 when Branch 204 acquitted De Lima and Dayan. The ruling cited the recantation of key witness Rafael Ragos and the prosecution’s failure to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Court of Appeals intervention
In April 2025, the Court of Appeals (CA) voided the 2023 acquittal, saying the RTC decision did not sufficiently explain how Ragos’ retraction affected the case. The appellate court remanded the case for a new ruling and held that the judgment could not be considered final due to what it called grave abuse of discretion.
De Lima’s lawyers invoked double jeopardy, but the CA ruled that protection did not
apply because the earlier judgment was void.
Reaffirmation and closure
On June 27, 2025, the Muntinlupa court stood by its original acquittal, declaring once more that the prosecution’s evidence under the Dangerous Drugs Act was insufficient. Prosecutors initially filed a motion for reconsideration but later sought to withdraw it.
On October 1, 2025, Judge Gener Gito granted the withdrawal and declared the
lines were temporarily disrupted in several areas.
Heritage church collapse
The Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Rosa de Lima in Daanbantayan, a Spanish-era heritage church, suffered major façade damage. The Archdiocese of Cebu directed parishes not to use damaged sanctuaries until engineers complete inspections.
Government and relief response
Governor Pamela “Pam” Baricuatro suspended classes and provincial government work to allow safety inspections. She assured residents through her official Facebook page that the provincial government was fully mobilized and urged vigilance as aftershocks continued.
Cebu Province declared a state of calamity to fast-
track aid. The Philippine Red Cross deployed volunteers for medical and relief work, while President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Department of Social Welfare and Development to assist
with recovery. A familiar risk
The Philippines lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where destructive earthquakes are common. In 2012, a magnitude 6.7 quake near Negros Oriental killed more than 100, and in 2013,
the Bohol earthquake (M 7.2) left over 200 dead and destroyed heritage churches.
PHIVOLCS urged residents to avoid damaged structures, prepare emergency supplies, and remain alert for aftershocks. n
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Rep. Leila de Lima House of Representatives file photo
Martin Romualdez, Rep. Zaldy Co, Mark Villar
File photos
The Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Rosa de Lima in Daanbantayan, Cebu after being damaged by the 6.9 magnitude earthquake on Tuesday, September 30. Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Rosa de Lima via Facebook
by AJPress
Romualdez, Co, and Villar to be subpoenaed...
"I will let you know when we will be inviting Sen. Villar," he added.
During the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee Hearing, Curlee Discaya claimed that the DPWH officials he cited alleged the kickbacks were intended for Romualdez and Co.
Co was the chief executive officer of the Sunwest Group of Companies, which was among the top 15 construction firms that secured contracts with the DPWH for P100 billion worth of flood control projects nationwide over the last three years.
Curlee also claimed that Quezon City 4th District Rep. Marvin Rillo always mentions the name of Romualdez as a close friend.
"Sinasabi pa ni Cong. Rillo na lahat ng kanyang request para sa pondo ay galing pa mismo sa unprogrammed funds at insertions na inaaprubahan ni Speaker," he said.
Meanwhile, Escudero alleged in his privilege speech that Romualdez is the mastermind behind allegations against senators, including the ex-Senate president, in relation to the anomalous flood control projects.
Romualdez and Co have since denied the allegations. Flood control mess
The flood control scandal has already sparked leadership changes in both houses of Congress.
Earlier this month, the owners of a construction firm accused nearly 30 House
members and DPWH officials of taking cash payments.
The Department of Finance has estimated that the Philippine economy lost up to P118.5 billion from 2023 to 2025 due to corruption in flood control projects. Greenpeace has suggested the number is actually closer to P1.025 trillion.
The controversy involving the government's flood control projects began in July as the rains triggered massive flooding in the metro.
Hearings at the House of Representatives and the Senate revealed billions of pesos lost to corruption, which prompted the formation of the ICI, which will specifically investigate irregularities in flood control projects in the last 10 years. n
Court closes De Lima drug case...
case “closed and terminated.”
Aftermath and significance
The case’s termination means De Lima no longer faces any pending drug
charges. Supporters and rights advocates welcomed the outcome as a vindication of due process and a reminder of the risks of using recanted testimonies in politically sensitive prosecutions.
De Lima, who won a con-
gressional seat earlier this year, said she intends to push forward with justice reform and human rights legislation. The Department of Justice has stated it will abide by the court’s final ruling. n
Pope, countries express sympathy to quake victims
by EvElyn Macairan, Pia lEE Brago Philstar.com
MANILA — Pope Leo XIV has expressed his sympathies to the survivors of the Cebu earthquake, and offered prayers for those who died.
In an interview on Thursday, October 2 over Radyo Veritas, newly installed Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy said Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Charles Brown called him to relay Leo’s message.
Leo visited Cebu three times when he was the prior general of the Augustinian Order.
As Fr. Robert Francis Prevost, the pontiff visited Cebu in 2004 to bless the Augustinian friary at the Santo Niño de Cebu Parish in Talisay City. He returned in 2008 to lead the blessing of the Santo Niño Spirituality Center. The following year, 2009, he celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Augustinian Province of Santo Niño de Cebu at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.
Radyo Veritas also reported that five churches under the Archdiocese of Cebu were damaged by the Sept. 30 magnitude 6.9 earthquake.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, meanwhile, relayed his condolences to the families of earthquake victims.
Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya also conveyed his condolences in a
message to Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro.
The United Nations conveyed its sympathies and lauded authorities for their “swift response” to the disaster.
Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Prévot said he is “ deeply saddened by the tragic earthquake in Cebu .”
Matt Thistlethwaite, Assistant Minister for Immigration of Australia, said his country stands ready to support the Philippine government address urgent humanitarian needs.
The United Arab Emirates Foreign Ministry extended condolences to the families of those killed and wished swift recovery to those hurt.
The Chinese embassy relayed its “ deepest condolences to the victims, and our hearts go out to the families affected by the earthquake in Cebu .”
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also conveyed his sympathies to the families of earthquake victims.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia, through its embassy, “conveys the sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Government and people of the friendly Republic of the Philippines over the devastation caused by Typhoon Opong, which has resulted in casualties and missing persons.” n
reopens as renewed stage for art, culture, and diplomacy
The Philippine International Convention Center reopens after six months of renovation, unveiling upgrades and curated artworks ahead of its 50th anniversary and ASEAN 2026
by AJPress
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., joined by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and former First Lady Imelda Marcos, led the reopening of the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, following a six-month renovation.
A home for Filipino creativity
In his remarks, Marcos described the PICC as “a home of the Filipino spirit” and called on the public to support Filipino painters, musicians, and performers. The ceremony highlighted the complex not only as a convention venue but also as a space for culture and creativity.
Modern upgrades ahead of ASEAN 2026
The refurbishment introduced upgraded audio-visual systems, energy-efficient lighting, high-speed Wi-Fi across the complex, and enhanced security. A new art program integrates works by Filipino masters, including pieces from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas collection. The renovation was completed in time for the PICC’s 50th anniversary in 2026 and in preparation for the Philippines’ hosting of the ASEAN Summit.
From Locsin’s vision to a national treasure
The Philippine International Convention Center, designed by National Artist for Architecture Leandro V. Locsin, was inaugurated in September 1976 to host the International Monetary Fund–World Bank Annual Meeting. Built during the term of President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., the PICC was part of the administration’s masterplan to establish the Philippines as an international center for diplomacy and culture, becoming the first convention facility of its kind in Asia.
Located within the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex in Pasay City, the PICC sits near Manila Bay and is surrounded by performance halls, museums, and other cultural landmarks. It offers multiple halls and meeting rooms that together can accommodate thousands of participants, making it a venue capable of hosting simultaneous global conferences, trade forums, and cultural showcases.
Renewed stage for art, culture, and diplomacy
The reopening underscores the PICC’s dual role as a diplomatic hub and cultural landmark. With its modernized facilities and curated art displays, the venue reaffirms its place as a bridge between her-
itage and contemporary use. The restoration highlights how infrastructure can serve both the practical needs of international events and the broader goal of elevating Filipino cultural identity.
PICC milestones: 1976–2025
• 1976 — The Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), designed by National Artist Leandro V. Locsin, was inaugurated to host the International Monetary Fund–World Bank Annual Meeting. It became the first international convention center in Asia.
• 1980s–1990s — Hosted a series of ASEAN summits, ministerial meetings, and global trade forums; also served as a venue for national cultural showcases and international pageants.
• 2013 — Was officially declared a National Cultural Treasure, recognizing its architectural and historical significance.
• 2020–2021 — Served as a government vaccination hub and emergency venue during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• 2025 — Reopened on September 30 after a six-month renovation, unveiling upgraded facilities and a refreshed art program, ahead of its 50th anniversary in 2026 and the Philippines’ hosting of the ASEAN Summit. n
Marcos diverts P36-B flood control funds to DSWD programs
by JEan Mangaluz Philstar.com
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Friday, September 26 that P36 billion originally set aside for flood control will be reallocated to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Addressing beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) at Malacañang Palace, Marcos said the shift was meant to ensure more Filipinos are lifted out of poverty through government welfare programs.
"Mga kababayan, kinalulugod kong ibahagi sa inyo ang halos P36 billion na pondo na galing sa DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) na nakuha natin sa flood con-
trol projects, itong halagang ito ay ilalaan natin sa mga programa ng DSWD," Marcos said. (My fellow countrymen, I am happy to announce that around P36 billion in DPWH flood control funds will be reallocated to the DSWD.)
He said the additional funds would go to 4Ps and other welfare programs. The DSWD's Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations, or AICS, provides up to P10,000 in cash aid to those facing emergencies.
"Dahil sa karagdagang pondo ng AICS program, dadami ang ating mga kababayan na matutulungan sa panahon ng emergency tulad ng madaliang operasyon, pambili ng maintenance o gamot, at iba pang mga gastos para sa pagpapa-
Italy defends men’s volleyball crown, PH shines as first-time world championship host
by AJPress
PASAY CITY — Italy defeated Bulgaria in four sets on September 28 to win the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, retaining the title it captured in 2022 in Poland and Slovenia. The Azzurri prevailed 25–21, 25–17, 17–25, 25–10 before an announced crowd of more than 16,000.
Outside hitter Alessandro Michieletto was named Most Valuable Player after spearheading Italy’s attack throughout the tournament. The victory gave Italy its second consecutive and fifth overall men’s world championship, the most of any nation.
A milestone for Philippine men’s volleyball
galing," Marcos said. (Because of the additional AICS funding, more Filipinos can be helped during emergencies, such as for minor operations, medicines, and other recovery expenses.)
The DSWD's Sustainable Livelihood Program, meanwhile, offers skills training and start-up capital to help beneficiaries build micro businesses.
The DPWH recently cut about P255 billion from its flood control budget following revelations of alleged corruption and kickback schemes involving lawmakers, private contractors and government officials.
Marcos has listed sectors he intends to redirect the budget to, including social welfare and education. n
The Philippines hosted the Men’s World Championship for the first time, bringing 32 national teams to Metro Manila from September 12 to 28, with matches at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay and the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
The host nation delivered a breakthrough when Alas Pilipinas defeated Egypt 3–1 in pool play, the country’s first-ever win at a men’s world championship. The result, celebrated widely by fans and officials, was seen as a turning point for Philippine men’s volleyball, which has long been overshadowed by the women’s game.
Bulgaria’s resurgence and Poland’s bronze Bulgaria reached its first
world championship final since 1970, highlighted by a five-set quarterfinal win over the United States.
Poland secured the bronze medal, defeating Czechia in the third-place match to earn its first-ever world championship bronze.
Hosting significance
The event drew scrutiny over high ticket prices and a revoked media accreditation that was later reinstated following criticism. Despite those concerns, the tournament was widely praised for its ener-
gy and attendance. The final weekend drew record local crowds and highlighted the growing appetite for men’s volleyball in the country. For Italy, the title solidified its place as the most decorated nation in men’s volleyball. For Bulgaria and Poland, the podium finishes were milestones decades in the making. For the Philippines, the tournament was both a global showcase and a signal that its men’s volleyball program is ready to expand on the world stage. n
ENOUGH SUPPLY. Workers unload sacks of imported rice for retailers in Tondo, Manila on Monday, Sept. 29, 2025. The government will extend the two-month rice import ban for at least 30 more days to cushion the impact of plunging farmgate prices of palay (unhusked rice), the Department of Agriculture said.
PNA photo by Yancy Lim
The Italian men’s national volleyball team celebrates after winning the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship in Manila, their second consecutive and fifth overall world title. Photo courtesy of FIVB/Volleyball World
Meet the Filipina who turned a suitcase filled with dreams into a billion-dollar reality
Jen Rubio co-founded Away in 2015. Discover how she turned a broken suitcase into a $1.4B unicorn and redefined what it means to dream and build.
by AJPress
FROM suitcase mishap to unicorn empire: Jen Rubio’s journey with Away
When Jen Rubio’s suitcase cracked open on an airport floor, scattering her belongings across the terminal, she did not just see a travel nightmare. She saw an opportunity. That moment of frustration in 2015 led the Filipina-born entrepreneur to co-found Away, a travel brand that became one of the most recognizable luggage companies in the world and, by 2019, reached unicorn status with a valuation of $1.4 billion.
In business, a unicorn refers to a privately held startup valued at more than $1 billion, a milestone rarely achieved and even less common for companies co-founded by women.
Early roots: From Manila to New Jersey
Jennifer “Jen” Rubio was born in the Philippines and moved with her family to New Jersey at the age of seven. Growing up as an immigrant, she developed adaptability and ambition, qualities that would later define her career.
At Pennsylvania State University, she studied supply chain management through a co-op program with Johnson & Johnson, but she left just short of graduating when offered a full-time role.
Her early career took her from corporate supply chains into the creative world of consumer branding.
Shaping a digital-first marketer
Before building Away, Ru-
bio gained valuable experience at several innovative companies. At Warby Parker, she led early social media efforts and partnerships, helping shape the eyewear company’s influential digital brand voice.
Later, as global director of innovation at fashion house AllSaints, she spent more than a year traveling, which kept her close to the frustrations of modern travel and planted the seeds for her next venture.
She also taught social media at the Miami Ad School, reinforcing her reputation as a digital-first storyteller.
The spark that carried Away
The airport mishap was the catalyst, but execution turned the idea into reality. Teaming up with former Warby Parker colleague Steph Korey, Rubio co-founded Away in 2015. Their idea was simple yet disruptive: design high-quality, stylish luggage at accessible price points and sell directly to consumers online.
The strategy resonated. With Instagram-ready design and a strong brand identity that positioned travel as a lifestyle, Away quickly captured the loyalty of millennials and frequent flyers. By 2017, the company had raised $31 million in funding, one of the largest early-stage rounds for a female-led startup at the time.
Scaling to unicorn status
Under Rubio’s leadership in branding and marketing, Away grew at extraordinary speed. By 2019, the company had sold more than a million suitcases, opened physical
retail stores, and achieved a valuation of $1.4 billion, officially making it a unicorn. Publications called it the “Warby Parker of luggage.”
Rubio took over as CEO in 2021 and guided Away through the pandemic’s disruption of global travel and a period of restructuring. In 2025, she transitioned to the role of Executive Chair, with Jessica Schinazi becoming CEO. Rubio remains a central figure in shaping the company’s long-term vision.
Lessons from turbulence Away’s rise was not without challenges. In 2019, the company came under scrutiny after media reports described an unhealthy workplace culture, leading
to leadership changes at the time. The disruption was compounded by the pandemic, when Away’s sales reportedly dropped by about 90 percent, forcing widespread furloughs and layoffs.
Jen Rubio stepped in as CEO in 2021 and worked on stabilizing and reshaping the company. Her leadership reflects a broader shift among direct-to-consumer brands, moving away from growth at all costs and toward building sustainable and resilient business models.
Life and leadership beyond Away
Jen Rubio now divides her time between New York City, Aspen, and New Mexico, where she and her husband,
Slack co-founder Stewart Butterfield, are raising their two children. As Executive Chair of Away, she continues to guide the brand she helped build while expanding her role as an investor in new consumer and lifestyle ventures. She also serves as a trustee of the Whitney Museum of American Art and has become a patron of contemporary culture, co-chairing events such as Aspen ArtCrush. Her life today reflects a broader vision: not only creating companies but also shaping culture, mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs, and balancing
Photos from Instagram/@jennifer
these pursuits with motherhood. In many ways, her journey illustrates how the story of a unicorn founder can evolve into something even larger, a sustained influence that reaches beyond business into community, creativity, and family.
A suitcase that carried a dream
From Manila to New Jersey, from
to
one
into a billion-dollar idea. Her story is one of adaptability and reinvention, proving how a single vision can reshape industries and inspire dreamers across the world.
Warby Parker
Away, Jen Rubio turned
broken suitcase
Jen Rubio
Pia Wurtzbach joins Paris Fashion Week
by AJPress
PARIS — Former Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach made her way back to the Paris runway at L’Oréal Paris’ Le Défiléduring Paris Fashion Week in September 2025, staged at the historic Hôtel de Ville. It was her second appearance at the annual showcase, reaffirming her place among a global roster of celebrated women.
Wurtzbach wore a red haute couture gown from Tony Ward’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection, its off-shoulder silhouette shimmering beneath the lights. She paired the gown with a Bulgari serpenti necklace and gold hoop earrings, while her sleek hair and understated makeup lent the look a balance of elegance and confidence.
On Instagram, she shared what the moment meant: “To walk alongside women from all over the world … and carry the Philippine flag with me? That’s the real honor.”
A second stride in Paris
This was not her first time on the Le Défilé stage. In 2024, Wurtzbach made history as the first Filipina to walk in the show, which has featured names such as Kendall Jenner, Jane Fonda, Eva Longoria, and Cara Delevingne. Her 2025 return carried a different resonance: she was no longer a novelty but part of the brand’s cast, her presence signaling both artistry and representation.
The 2025 edition carried the theme “Liberty. Equality. Sisterhood. Because You’re Worth It,” echoing L’Oréal’s iconic tagline while underscoring the show’s identity
Kim Chiu takes break from
as both a fashion spectacle and a platform for advocacy. Set against the grandeur of Paris’ city hall, the runway gathered women from across cultures and generations in a collective celebration of visibility and empowerment.
The weight of representation
Wurtzbach shifted the focus to what her walk symbolized: the inclusion of Filipinas on a stage that has long spotlighted mostly Western icons. She embodied representation, carried with grace and certainty.
Her presence in Paris this season reflects a broader shift in global fashion— an acknowledgment that Southeast Asian beauty and identity belong under the same lights that have defined haute couture for decades.
taping
to buy materials for fellow Cebuano quake victims
by KathlEEn a. llEMit Philstar.com
CEBUANA actress Kim Chiu was spotted shopping for construction materials for her fellow Cebuanos who were affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu.
Kim was seen personally buying construction materials at a hardware store, as shown on her official Facebook page, to support relief efforts for victims of the deadly earthquake in Cebu.
The materials will be donated to residents in San Remigio and Bogo City, the latter being the quake’s epicenter.
The powerful tremor struck on the night of September 30, leaving 72 people dead and damaging infrastructure, including homes and heritage churches. As of October 2, aftershocks continue to be felt across affected areas.
Ogie Alcasid is having a Gen Z moment
When young singer Rob Deniel’s cover of “Nandito Ako” went viral, OPM icon Ogie Alcasid saw his monthly listeners surge from 500,000 to over three million
by allan PolicarPio Inquirer.net
FOR the longest time, Ogie Alcasid’s monthly listeners on Spotify never went beyond 500,000. And for the longest time, he wondered how he could grow that number, knowing that his core audience—the fans who grew up with him and are now in their middle age—aren’t typically active music streamers.
The answer was obvious: court a young crowd.
He wrote new songs with more contemporary production, like “IN LAB,” an alternative-pop track stylized in casual, all-caps in its title to project a more hip aesthetic. He stayed active on social media, posting lighthearted clips and hopping on dance trends. He continued visiting schools to teach songwriting and reach out to the students. He put out “Ulit,” an EP of reimagined old hits, which did well, but still appealed mostly to his market.
The answer was obvious: court a young crowd. He wrote new songs with more contemporary production… e continued visiting schools to teach songwriting and reach out to the students.
But in the end, the formula for virality has yet to be cracked, and an artist can only do so much with strategy. If there’s one thing we have seen time and time again in the streaming era, it’s that sometimes, a track will blow up when least expected, and for a confluence of reasons that are quite hard to pin d
Such was the case with “Nandito Ako”—Alcasid’s first major hit written by Aaron Paul del Rosario and released in 1989—which recently saw a massive resurgence after a live cover by Rob Deniel went viral.
The viral trigger
Last January, at the 10th Wish Music Awards, Alcasid was honored as an Icon of Music Excellence. And as part of the tribute, Deniel—one of today’s Gen Z artists leading the OPM charge—took the stage and delivered an impassioned rendition of the Alcasid hits “Ikaw Sana” and “Nandito Ako.”
Alcasid was impressed. He accepted the award, gave a speech, and went on his way, thinking not much of it afterward. The crowd, at the time, felt similarly. But roughly seven months later, the per-
formance exploded online, catching Alcasid completely by surprise.
Reaction videos and covers by other singers further fueled the hype. Before long, his monthly listeners had swelled to well over three million. The official performance video has 40 million views on YouTube. And as of this writing, the song remains in the Top 50 of Spotify Philippines’ Daily Top Songs chart, where it peaked at number 23.
“Rob’s fans liked the song, but since he doesn’t have a recording of that, they ended up on my Spotify page instead…They had no choice!”
Alcasid says in a recent group interview, including Lifestyle Inquirer. “Surprisingly, this came at a time when I was trying to grow my listenership.”
That the performance’s impact took more than half a year to be felt remains a mystery—perhaps the timing simply wasn’t right, the algorithm failed to pick it up, the public wasn’t in the mood for it, or it didn’t immediately reach the ears of a big name influencer.
But here’s something hard to argue with: quality transcends. “Nandito Ako” is a beautiful ballad—and without that simple fact—no amount of luck or outside variables could have propelled it. And in the hands of a talented artist currently making waves like Deniel, a resurgence was always just a matter of time.
Learning from the young
This phenomenon also confirmed what Alcasid has believed all along: that even music icons like him have just as much to gain and learn from rising talents as the other way around. In fact, he shares, it was young stars Maki and Angela Ken who helped him make sense of why “Nandito Ako” became a new old hit.
“Maki told me that young people these days actually love emo songs,” Alcasid shares. “And that they find our contrasting interpretations interesting: that when they listen to Rob’s take, they feel a sense of yearning, and when they listen to mine, they feel security and reassurance. It’s all very fascinating, and I love that I’m learning from them.”
As for himself, he has been having a kick at revisiting the original version. “My vibrato was faster and my singing was more carefree. Now it’s airier,” says Alcasid, who has always held the song dear, has made it the final song in most of his shows.
“My vibrato was faster and my singing was more carefree. Now it’s airier,” says Alcasid. It’s worth noting, though, that the song’s enduring popularity is no accident. “Nandito Ako” has had multiple, high-profile revivals over the decades, most notably by Lea Salonga in 1993, Thalia in 1997, and David Archuleta in 2012. But unlike sales, radio airplay, and media hype, today’s success metrics—by way of streaming—are more transparent and immediate, making it easier to gauge a song’s reach.
Alcasid and Deniel are wisely following this momentum. Deniel recently recorded “Ikaw Sana,” while Alcasid himself plans to re-record “Nandito Ako,” this time with string instrumentation. “Rob and I performed together in ‘It’s Showtime.’ He’s a better singer, I should say. But really, I’m just happy that someone so influential among young people appreciates the music we do,” he says.
A catalog-wide effect
The “Nandito Ako” hype inevitably rubbed off on the rest
Actress Kim Chiu takes a break from taping to buy construction materials
her fellow Cebuanos in San Remigio and Bogo who were left with
Former Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach on the runway at L’Oréal Paris’ Le Défilé during Paris Fashion Week 2025. Photos from Instagram/@piajauncey
When young singer Rob Deniel’s cover of “Nandito Ako” went viral, the OPM icon saw his monthly listeners surge from 500,000 to over three million.
Photo from “It’s Showtime”/Facebook
Filipino trans designer Veejay Floresca wins ‘Project Runway’ Season 21
by KristofEr PurnEll Philstar.com
FILIPINA designer Veejay Floresca has been named winner of "Project Runway" Season 21, becoming the first openly trans person and the first of Filipino descent to come out on top of the fashion reality competition.
Veejay bested 11 other designers on "Project Runway" Season 21, 17 years after competing in the inaugural Philippine edition of the show.
As champion, Veejay takes home a $200,000 (P11.6 million) cash prize, six months of representation by Agentry PR, a mentorship with the Council of Fashion Designers of America, and a spread in "Elle" magazine.
Her winning collection featured metallic looks, capped by a draped chainmail gown.
Joining her in the Top 3 were fellow designers and returning contestants Jesus Estrada (a contestant from the
Facebook/@veejay.floresca.9
show's seventh season) and Ethan Mundt, more popularly known as "RuPaul's Drag Race" Season 13 contestant Utica Queen.
"I came here with the goal to be the first trans woman to win this competition, and I think that will really inspire my community that you can actually reach your dreams by being who you are," said Veejay.
Her win capped a banner day for Filipinos, coming after Filipino-American singer Jessica Sanchez's victory on "America's Got Talent" Season 20 and Kirk Bondad's Mister International title, the country's second.
The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde graduate in fashion design and merchandising previously competed on "Project Runway Philippines" Season 1 in 2008. She reached the finale and finished third behind Philipp Tampus and winner Aries Lagat.
She is also known for appearing in a viral video with four of her friends reacting to Venus Raj's 4th runner-up finish in Miss Universe 2010.
The trans designer moved to Los Angeles and centered her craft on sustainable materials, establishing her own bridal wear brand. She also competed in Miss Trans Star International 2022 and another fashion competition series, "Dress My Tour."
Alexa Miro confirms 5-year relationship with presidential son Sandro Marcos
ACTRESS Alexa Miro finally admitted her past relationship with presidential son and Ilocos Norte 1st District representative Sandro Marcos.
Alexa was seen with Sandro in past occasions, prompting speculations about their relationship. They have said that they are only close friends.
"Reason behind that decision was for safety purposes and precautions because siyempre kasi sila ang ating first family," Alexa told Pep at the sidelines of the press conference (presscon) for TV5’s new show “Sing Galing.” The press conference was held last September 25 at Padi’s Point in Tomas Morato.
The actress shared that there is “grand scheme of things” and believes in “seeing the bigger picture” as to keeping her relationship with the presidential son a private matter.
She was asked why she talked about her secret relationship in a TikTok live just days before her admission. She talked about her unnamed boyfriend then and an alleged third party that named beauty queen Franki Russell. Russell, meanhile, is being linked to actor Enrique Gil.
"Nasaktan kasi talaga ako sa mga huling ka-
Thrilla in Manila at 50: Heat, endurance, and a fight that still echoes
Fifty years after the Thrilla in Manila, the Philippines commemorates Ali and Frazier’s legendary bout at Araneta Coliseum. With Manny Pacquiao leading tributes, the legacy of the fight, Don King’s promotion, and the Marcos family’s role are remembered alongside Ali and Frazier’s enduring impact by AJPress
A morning in cubao that changed boxing forever
On October 1, 1975, the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City hosted the third and final meeting of Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. To suit U.S. primetime, the fight began mid-morning, around 10:45 a.m.
through the efforts of promoter Don King, who had already staged the Rumble in the Jungle in 1974. King secured broadcast contracts and brought the spectacle to Manila with support from the Araneta family and the Philippine government.
in Florida, a symbol of both boxing’s grand spectacles and its controversies.
The conditions were brutal. With the aluminum roof trapping heat and television lights glaring, ringside temperatures soared above 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Ali relied on his reach and speed, while Frazier pressed forward with his punishing left hooks. After 14 grueling rounds, Frazier’s trainer Eddie Futch stopped the fight, refusing to send his boxer out for the 15th. Ali, nearly collapsing, later called it “the closest thing to dying I ever experienced.”
Don King and the Philippine stage
The bout came together
At the time, the Philippines was led by President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and First Lady Imelda Marcos, who welcomed the fight as a chance to showcase the country’s ability to host an international sporting event. Their administration provided the backing that helped transform Cubao into the center of global attention for one morning in 1975.
For King, it was a career-defining triumph. In the decades that followed, he promoted champions such as Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, and Julio César Chávez. His career, however, was also marked by legal disputes with fighters over financial dealings.
Now 93 years old, he remains
The Marcos family’s story has also evolved. Ferdinand Marcos Sr. remained in power until 1986, when the family went into exile. He died in Hawaii in 1989, while Imelda Marcos returned and later served in Congress. Today, their son Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is the president of the Philippines, his term coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the fight. Ali and Frazier: The final bell
Both fighters who made Manila unforgettable are gone. Muhammad Ali lived with Parkinson’s syndrome for decades before passing away on June 3, 2016, in Scottsdale, Arizona, at age 74.
Joe Frazier returned to Philadelphia, where he ran a gym and mentored young boxers until his death from liver cancer on November 7, 2011, at
Veejay Floresca Photo from
Alex Miro and Sandro Marcos Photo from Instagram/@alexamiro.m
ganapan kaya siguro naramdaman ko na baka panahon na para magsabi ng totoo,” Alexa said. The actress said that she has not spoken to Sandro but wishes him well. She also
The “Thrilla in Manila” — Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier faced off at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on October 1, 1975, in one of the most grueling and celebrated bouts in boxing history.
Left: Public domain / El Gráfico archive; Right: Araneta City Historical Archives
Official poster of the 1975 “Thrilla in Manila,” promoted by Don King Productions, featuring Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. Right: Ali Mall in Quezon City, built in honor of Ali after his victory, remains a landmark near the Araneta Coliseum. Poster: Public domain; Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Patrickroque01).
Health@Heart Sex During Pregnancy
PHiliP S. CHua, MD, FaCS, FPCS
TODAY, we are answering sensitive questions about sex during pregnancy emailed to us by our readers over the years. We strongly believe that a frank discussion of any medical issue, including sex, is fundamental in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and good health in general, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Can I have sex while pregnant?
As long as the pregnancy is normal, yes, you can have sex right up until water breaks. Do check with your doctor first, though, especially if you're having any problems with your pregnancy, like a shortened or dilated cervix, leaking amniotic fluid, placenta previa, or bleeding, or if you have a history of premature labor, miscarriages, etc. These are some of the situations when you should avoid having sex during pregnancy. Making love will not hurt the baby as long as the pregnancy is normal. There is a thick mucus plug that seals the cervix, which guards against infection, and the amniotic sac and the strong muscles of the uterus protect the baby. The baby may move around a bit more than a usual fetus after your orgasm because of your faster heart rate and not because it knows what's happening or feels pain. Make sure proper hygiene is exercised before and after sex, and that the act is a tender (not a violent) one. The best is to discuss the matter and its details with your obstetrician.
Will lovemaking be as enjoyable?
Many women enjoy sex better when pregnant, while others don’t feel as good. The natural engorgement of the genitals with increased blood flow during sex heightens the sensation and ecstasy. However, the same engorgement makes other women feel uncomfortable and have a sense of fullness after the act, or even abdominal cramps. The breast can become more enlarged and more tender, causing discomfort when fondled. The wife should be candid with her husband from the very start, and the husband should be loving, understanding, and thoughtful.
Is libido less when pregnant?
Yes, it is normal for the changes during pregnancy to lessen some women’s desire
for sex. But a lot of women, finally free from worries about conception and contraception, may have increased libido. Many pregnant women feel sexier than ever, and others feel too sick to make love, especially in the first trimester. Libido resurges during the second trimester, and wanes in the third trimester as labor, delivery, etc., get closer. The husband must be sensitive and understanding of his wife’s feelings, especially during her pregnancy, which in itself is a taxing situation for the woman to begin with. The husband can play a vital role here to make the pregnancy a sacred and happy event in their life as a couple.
Does husband's sex drive diminish?
The attitude of the husband about sex when his wife is pregnant depends on so many factors, which include upbringing, education, culture and beliefs, and current personal and/or socio-economic pressures. Many men find their pregnant partner to be as attractive and sexy as ever, if not more. Some are misinformed or not properly informed, and become self-conscious about making love to their pregnant wife for fear of hurting the baby. The wife should understand that if her husband appears not to be “interested” in sex when she is pregnant, it does not mean he does not love her anymore, or that she is no longer attractive to him, or that he has another woman. The husband, on the other hand, should exert his best to make his pregnant wife feel that he is very much in love with her and that he still finds her attractive, pregnancy and all. Making love to a woman is not only through sexual intercourse, anyway. Using the largest sex organ in the body, the brain, with love and tenderness, could be more satisfying than the physical act itself. This is especially true for the woman.
Which sex positions are safer?
Various obstetricians and sex therapists have suggested the following time-tested positions and tips for making love for women who are pregnant:
1. Do it sideways (face to face) to allow your partner to keep most of his weight off your uterus. The proper body and leg positioning must be maximized to provide a comfortable situation for both partners, especially for the pregnant wife.
2. Doing it side-by-side (husband behind the wife) in
the “spoon position” will allow for only shallow penetration. Deep thrusts can become uncomfortable to the pregnant wife as the months pass.
3. The woman on top puts no weight on the pregnant abdomen and allows the wife to control the depth of penetration.
4. Sitting on the man’s lap as he sits on a sturdy chair or couch.
5. The woman can lie on her side, and the husband against her at a sitting (perpendicular) position, like two open scissors.
6. The pregnant uterus will not be in the way if the woman lies on her back at the side or foot of the bed with knees bent, then bottom and feet perched at the edge of the mattress (like lying on an obstetrician’s examining table).
Other positions will be comfortable and safe for the mother and the baby. Gymnastic, acrobatic, or violent techniques (even if practiced by the couple before pregnancy) are deemed unsafe and, therefore, discouraged. It will take some imagination, loving cooperation, and experimentation to find the safest, most comfortable, and most satisfying position for both the husband and his pregnant wife.
Is oral sex safe?
In general, sexologists feel that oral sex is normal, permissible, and healthy, whether the woman is pregnant or not. The only proviso is that the relationship is monogamous and that both partners are HIV negative and have no other STD (sex-transmitted diseases). Also, it is a must that proper pre- and post-oral coital hygiene be practiced to prevent infection. Oral sex is one of the techniques prescribed by sex therapists as a safe alternative if intercourse is deemed unsafe. But everything boils down to the personal preferences and beliefs of the partners. To be mutually enjoyable and positive for mental health, the choice, whatever it is, must be made by both partners, unanimously, with love and understanding for each other. How often can a pregnant woman have sex? There is no set number of times a day or a week for this. As long as the woman has a normal pregnancy and is regularly checked by her obstetrician, she can have sex as many times as she and her partner desire, unless advised otherwise.
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints
Alessandra De Rossi to direct upcoming film ‘Everyone Knows Every Juan’
by hannah Mallorca Inquirer.net
ALESSANDRA De Rossi was revealed as the director of “Everyone Knows Every Juan,” a dark comedy film in which she will take on multiple hats as actress and producer.
The De Rossi-helmed “Everyone Knows Every Juan” was revealed by Viva Films in a media con on Tuesday, Sept. 30, where an ensemble cast will join her.
Joining the actress-director are Jaime Fabregas, Kelvin Miranda, Ronnie Lazaro, Angeli Bayani, Ruby Ruiz, Empoy Marquez, JM de Guzman, Gina Alajar, Joel Torre, Liza Lorena and Edu Manzano.
The film tells the story of siblings — portrayed by De Rossi, Manzano, Ruiz, Alajar and Torre — who reunited on the first death anniversary of their mother Juaning Sevilla (Lorena).
De Rossi said she considers the film a deep dive into “adulting,” showing events that happened in a single night. She also shared that she and her co-stars underwent a series of rehearsals since filming happened all at once.
“Adulting kami, kasi senior yung mga stars ko. Kami yung adult version. Parang gan’un yun, one night lang kasi nangyari [‘yung kwento]… Wala kasing preview. Yung ‘My Amanda’ kasi, after every take, preview ka,” she said. (It’s adulting in a way because I’m working with
senior actors. We’re the adult version, something like that. The story tells the story of events happening in one night. There is no preview. When I did “My Amanda,” I would do a preview after every take.)
De Rossi marked her directorial debut with the 2021 film “My Amanda,” which also starred Piolo Pascual.
“Everyone Knows Every Juan” will be released in theaters on Oct. 22.
Thrilla in Manila at 50: Heat, endurance...
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age 67.
Their rivalry ended in Manila, in a contest that is remembered as both their finest performance and their most punishing ordeal.
Legacy and commemoration
The Thrilla in Manila left a lasting mark. Official scorecards all favored Ali, but the human toll told another story. Frazier left the ring nearly blind, while Ali admitted he had never been closer to collapse. Historians often describe the fight as one in which both men gave, and lost, a part of themselves.
This year, the Philippines is marking the golden anniversary with commemorations at Smart Araneta Coliseum,
PAGE 12
including a special fight card on October 29, 2025. The event is being spearheaded by Manny Pacquiao, the Filipino eight-division world champion and former senator, who is lending his stature to honor Ali and Frazier’s legacy while highlighting the next generation of Filipino fighters.
The card will feature Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali, alongside Eumir Marcial and Carl Jammes Martin.
Nearby, Ali Mall, built in the champion’s honor, still stands as a reminder of that morning when Cubao became the focus of the sporting world. For many Filipinos, the event is remembered both as a point of pride and as a reflection of the era in which it unfolded.
Fifty years later: The legacy
The Thrilla in Manila is not remembered for flawless boxing technique but for endurance, willpower, and the spectacle of two fighters refusing to yield.
For Don King, it remains a crowning moment in his career. For the Marcoses, it was a showcase of international visibility. For Ali and Frazier, it was the fight that defined them both and one that exacted a heavy price.
Fifty years later, the echoes still carry in Ali’s grandson stepping into the Manila ring, in Cubao’s enduring landmarks, and in every retelling of the day when the Philippines stood at the center of world sport.
Ogie Alcasid is having a Gen Z...
of Ogie Alcasid’s formidable discography, leading young fans to discover the classics he actually wrote, like “Sa Kanya,” “Kung Mawawala Ka,” and the duet “Hanggang Ngayon.” Now, even his other hits are gaining steam across the board.
Last month, on the variety show “ASAP,” Kai Montinola, another promising young talent, convinced Alcasid to sing a duet of “Bakit Ngayon
Ka Lang.” It became another viral moment—maybe not to the same magnitude as “Nandito Ako,” but no less thrilling for Alcasid, who’s embracing his newfound visibility among Gen Z.
“I’m thankful for all these young people starting to discover and recognize my music. I’m humbled and shocked,” he says.
“I’m thankful for all these young people starting to discover and recognize my music.
I’m humbled and shocked.” Where this wave will lead him, Alcasid isn’t sure yet. But what’s certain, he says, is that what happened has only inspired him to keep writing new music, find new ways to reach listeners, and avoid relying on the legacy of his old hits. He wants to continue keeping his finger on the pulse of what’s happening in the industry, and on emerging artists moving the needle and keeping local music alive.
Alessandra De Rossi Photo from Instagram/@viva_films
The passion of teaching Filipino students
rOgeliO COnStantinO MeDina My P.E.P. (People, Events,Places)
I ONCE again left the comfort of life in Fairfield, California, to teach in the Philippines.
My American brother-inlaw was openly against my decision and worried about where I would stay, since I no longer have a home in my own country. He also feared I might once more endure the hardship of delayed salaries— an all-too-common reality for teachers in public institutions who sometimes wait months for pay.
He asked how I could possibly survive, especially given the frequent travel required between Manila and the provinces. In the past, I had even grown accustomed to commuting daily from Manila to my assignment outside the capital.
But teaching remains both my passion and my compassion. It has always been an essential part of my life, and I continue to embrace it as my ultimate service to the Filipino youth—especially now, as they navigate a world reshaped by technology and artificial intelligence.
In the middle of class one day, I received an unexpected call: I had been selected to receive the Rising Filipino Awards 2025’s International Excellence in Journalism and Education. The recognition will be conferred on November 16 at Novotel Manila Araneta Center in Quezon City.
* * *
Dra. Phong’s three daughters
I first met Dra. Ma. Flor Ragoro Concepcion, affectionately called Phong, at a Makati condo. A graduate of Mapúa Institute of Technology, she hailed from Valenzuela and was happily married to Ilonggo seaman John Lindres.
She ran a dental clinic on Santillan Street, not far from where I lived while working at the Department of Trade and Industry’s Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions. Phong became both my dentist and confidante, always ready with laughter and encouragement.
Her three daughters—Iyrah Francesca (my goddaughter), Dra. Pattrice Angelica, and Dra. Leanne Joyce—continue to honor her memory. Even after her passing, they make
it a point to celebrate their beloved mother’s birthday each year.
* * *
Lessons from TESOL and British Council
Recently, I attended the five-day workshop “AI in the English Language Classroom—From Prompt to Practice: Exploring AI Tools for English Teachers” organized by TESOL International Association with the guidance of our mentor, Ms. Sara Davila of Chicago.
There, I learned how to:
• Apply effective prompting techniques with AI models such as ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini, Perplexity, and Claude;
• Adapt lesson materials for learners at different proficiency levels, including multilingual support;
• Design scaffolded, student-centered activities that integrate AI responsibly while keeping teachers’ expertise central;
• Use AI tools across platforms (Microsoft, Google) to save time on lesson planning; and
• Evaluate the ethical implications of AI in education.
I am grateful to TESOL International Association for electing me as a member of its Board of Directors.
Later this month, from October 14 to 30, I will also join the ASEAN Teaching English Online Conference 2025, organized through the British Council in London.
Wooster and Wright briefings
I recently joined a briefing led by U.S. Ambassador Henry T. Wooster, chargé d’affaires in Haiti, who spoke about advancing U.S. foreign policy priorities in that country.
I also listened to U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, who discussed a return to common-sense energy and climate policies.
Justice Regina Benitez honored Atty. Bienvenido O. Benitez, Administrator of the Board of Pardons and Parole and an accomplished painter, paid tribute to his mother, Justice Regina Ordoñez Benitez, during the 80th founding anniversary of the United Nations at the historic Mira Nila Mansion.
I recall writing years ago about the United Nations Association of the Philippines— founded by Carlos P. Romulo—for Philippine Panorama magazine.
Those in attendance included Prof. Alice Lucas, Ambassador Rosario Manalo, Ambassador June Alma Dumlao Valisno, Cecile Guidote Alvarez, TESDA Director General Dr. Francisco Benitez, Dr. Margarita Consolacion Ballesteros, Dr. Dary Dacanay, Regina Benitez, Roderick C. Cruz, and the TUP Chorale.
* * * Celebrations and farewells
• Alyssa Daigdigan Varsovia recently marked her birthday with her family at the historic Manila Hotel.
• Farewell to my writing icon and mentor Gregorio Brillantes, whose kindness and guidance shaped my early years at National Midweek
O.
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints
PAGE 14
expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. * * * rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com
Sex During Pregnancy...
expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *
The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or
appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.
* * * Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian
foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, David Letterman, distinguished educators, scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.
(Clockwise) John Lindres, Dra. Ma. Flor Concepion-Lindres, Iyrah Francesca Lindres, Dra. Pattrice Angela Lindres and Dra. Leanne Joyce Lindres.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright.
(From left) journalist Rogelio Constantino Medina, screenwriter-editor Pete Lacaba, artist Danilo Dalena, writer Gregorio Brillantes, and columnist Wilson Lee Flores of the Philippine Star in a Fairview, Quezon City reunion during Medina's birthday.
Ambassador Henry T. Wooster. and Philippines Graphic magazines.
Current Board of Pardons and Parole Administrator Atty. Bienvenido
Benitez.
(From left) Dra. LeanneJoyce Lindres, Dra. Pattrice Angela Lindres, Iyrah Francesca Lindres and Asian Journal columnist Rogelio Constantino Medina remember the late Dra. Ma. Flor Concepion-Lindres on her birthday.
Celebrator Alyssa Daigdigan Varsovia with Pilar B. De Mesa at historic Manila Hotel.
TESOL International Association English training on Artificial Intelligence (AI).
