TWO years’ worth of supply chain disruptions alongside the Washington-imposed tariffs have prompted the Philippine government and trade and industry groups to trim the targets for export revenues from 2025 to 2028 to “more realistic” targets.
In her presentation of the updated Philippine Exports Development Plan (PEDP) 2023-2028 targets, Executive Director Bianca Pearl R. Sykimte of the DTI-Export Marketing Bureau and Export Development Council (EDC) underscored: “Our frontliners have been navigating a global economy that is volatile in its pace of change, uncertain in its direction, and complex in its interdependence and ambiguous in outcomes. With these, we had to recalibrate our export targets un-
der the [Philippine Export Development Plan] PEDP to align with [Philippine Development Plan] PDP benchmarks.”
Given the recent performance of key export sectors and “persistent weakness” of global demand, Sykimte said the government, alongside trade groups, had to adjust the trade figures.
Under the revised targets, Sykimte explained that there is now an upper-band and lower-band target per year.
“The Philippine Development Plan (targets) would be the upper band target and then we have a lower band target so that we have some flexibility,” the Trade official said.
“Because the rate of growth in the last two years is decelerating. So we have to adjust. And it’s too early because our services and exports are only half. So it’s hard for us to really know what will hap -
pen,” she also noted. For 2025, the Philippines expects its outbound shipments to hit $110.8 billion to $113.4 billion. Under the PEDP 2023-2028 which was crafted in 2023, the Export Development Council (EDC), with supervision from the DTI with key government agencies and the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport), pegged the country’s exports at $163.6 billion for 2025; $186.7 billion for 2026; $212.1 billion for 2027 and $240.5 billion for
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
THE Philippine peso once again touched the P59-level per US dollar on Thursday, hitting a two-week low on market expectations of a monetary easing by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and domestic pressures.
MOST Filipino families worry that the wealth they have worked hard to build will not survive beyond their children, according to a study by Sun Life Asia. In its research titled “Passing the torch: Building lasting legacies in Asia,” four in five of Filipino respondents fear their wealth may not be preserved beyond their children’s generation.
About 64 percent are concerned that their heirs will not be able to manage assets wisely.
Another 49 percent fear that family conflicts over assets could occur, while 41 percent point to market volatility as an increasing threat to preserving value.
“As families evolve, legacy planning must now go beyond financial structures to include education, communication and shared values,” the study said. The most crucial element of legacy planning, according to 77 percent of Filipino respondents, is ensuring their family’s financial security. Others focused on educating future generations about financial responsibility (53 percent) and prioritizing building enough wealth to pass
See “Wealth,” A2
THE Philippines ranks as the 49th biggest merchandise exporter out of 200 exporting nations in the world while it is still positioned at the bottom of the Asean-6 pack, according to the Department of Trade and IndustryExport Marketing Bureau (DTIEMB).
At the National Exporters’ Week 2025, DTI-EMB Director Bianca Pearl R. Sykimte said that given the size of the Philippines’ competitors in the region and globally, “It’s hard for the Philippines to be seen amidst larger exporting nations, more so our individual exporters.”
“Within the Asean region, we rank a far sixth in terms of export sales and even if we triple our exports, it’s not enough to catch up with our nearest competitor Indo -
nesia,” added Sykimte.
Data presented by Sykimte showed the Philippines’s merchandise or goods exports amounted to $73 billion last year.
This is not even a third of the merchandise exports of Indonesia, the Philippines’s closest competitor among the six exporting countries in Asean.
The largest exporting country in Asean last year was Singapore with $504.9 billion, followed by Vietnam with $403.2 billion; Malaysia, $330 billion; Thailand, $299.2 billion; Indonesia, $264.7 billion and the Philippines, $73 billion.
“In all markets, we’re always sixth. I don’t think I’ve seen a market where we’re number 2,3,4, or 5,” Sykimte told reporters in an interview.
Sykimte underscored that the Philippines is not yet “widely” recognized as a major supplier in global value chains, with the exception of a few products. With this, she said the country’s exporters, particularly the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), struggle to gain visibility and access in competitive international markets.
Given this reality, the head of DTI’s export marketing arm said it’s important for the government to play a proactive role in facilitating linkages between Philippine exporters and global buyers, distributors, and supply chain integrators.
“We’ll also launch the PHX Source. It’s an export directory. Basically, we want to reduce the time and cost of finding suppliers because when buyers come our way, actually all the requests for opportunity referrals it funnels out to our office,” Sykimte explained.
The PHX Source is a digital platform for Philippine exporters developed by the DTI, QSweep Tech Services, and with partners like PEZA.
“It connects Filipino businesses with global buyers through exporter profiles, product listings, and a
“Strategic government intervention can help overcome market access barriers and build trust in Philippine capabilities,” added Sykimte. Among the initiatives she proposed is for the government to invest in digital tools.
WILMA ON THE RADAR PAGASA hydro forecaster Edgar dela Cruz points to the low-pressure area east of Eastern Visayas that intensified into Tropical Depression “Wilma,” according to the state
request-for-quote system that enables B2B discussions,” she said. Meanwhile, the Trade official also divulged that the Philippines’ number of exporters has plunged to 4,000. This number is nearly half of the number of exporters a decade ago. (See: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2025/10/19/world-isshrinking-for-philippine-exporters/)
For his part, Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport)
President Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis Jr. explained the reason behind the drop in the number of exporters in the span of a decade.
“Because it’s not a profitable business. Everybody was doing very well. Now, hardly. And that’s regrettable because other countries depend on exports and MSMEs and we are not,” added Ortiz-Luis. Andrea E. San Juan
SEC cancels registration of 2 Discaya-owned firms
By VG Cabuag
THESecurities and Exchange Commission has nullified the corporate registrations of two companies owned by the Discayas, the contractors linked to the flood control corruption scandal.
formation as part of their general information sheets.
As early as September, the SEC issued separate notices to the two companies, directing them to pay a P2 million fine each for the false declaration of beneficial ownership information.
Both companies were given 15 calendar days upon receipt of the notice to explain or justify their violations, but neither complied within the prescribed time.
with decisive regulatory sanctions.
“Corporations are expected to respond promptly and responsibly when allowed to clarify or rectify discrepancies in their filings,” the agency said.
These administrative sanctions are separate from, and do not preclude, any other proceedings or measures that may arise under the Revised Corporation Code or other laws, it said.
which have been influencing the Philippines’s export performance in the last three years. The culprits behind the unmet export targets are: “Of course, uncertainty over the US tariffs. Previously, what affected our export targets were the disruptions in the global routes.
“Of course, there was a drought in the Panama Canal and then the Houthi attacks.”
She pointed out that right off the bat, or in the first two years of the implementation of the country’s export development plan, the country already missed the targets it set.
The revocation of the companies’ corporate registration does not prejudice the filing of other administrative, civil, or criminal actions that may be taken based on other violations of the Revised Corporation Code or other applicable laws, rules and regulations. of sources is vital,” Tiu Laurel said.
Furthermore, the DA said it will release an adjusted import matrix that would “significantly lower” import requirements for the first quarter of 2026. This would help shield farmgate prices and prevent predatory import practices, it added.
During the import freeze, shipments of certain rice varieties were permitted, but most commercial imports were paused as the government assessed local output.
In separate resolutions issued on November 26, the SEC Enforcement and Investor Protection Department canceled the certificates of incorporation of St. Timothy Construction Corp. and St. Gerrard Construction General Contractor and Development Corp. for submitting false beneficial ownership information.
St. Timothy and St. Gerrard were directed to pay P2 million each as a penalty, plus an administrative fine of P1,000 per day of continuing violation.
The directors of the two companies were disqualified from being a director, trustee or officer of any corporation for a period of five years for failure to ensure the accuracy of the
beneficial ownership declaration, the SEC said.
During a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on September 1, Cezarah Rowena Cruz-Discaya said she was the owner and officer of St. Timothy and St. Gerrard.
Based on SEC records, however, the EIPD found that Cruz-Discaya was not disclosed in the beneficial ownership declarations of St. Timothy from 2022 to September 2025, and of St. Gerrard from 2022 to 2024.
The failure of St. Timothy and St. Gerrard to disclose Cruz-Discaya as their beneficial owner constituted a violation of memorandum circular of the SEC, which required companies to submit their beneficial ownership in-
The SEC said corporations must “accurately and truthfully disclose beneficial ownership information”.
Failure to comply, whether by omission or by submission of incorrect information, undermines market integrity and will be met
to fall below 10 percent by end-2026, according to Bondoc. He said foreign brands and aggressive mall refurbishments are driving demand, while developers expand outside Metro Manila into Cebu, Bacolod, and Davao. Annual retail space comple -
opening at P58.95, data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) showed. This is the weakest since the all-time low of P59.065 to the greenback close on November 20, 2025.
“Expectations of BSP rate cut next week to cushion moderating GDP (gross domestic product) growth may have contributed to peso depreciation,” Angelo B. Taningco, chief economist at Security Bank, said.
BSP Governor and Chairman of the Monetary Board Eli M. Remolona Jr. has signaled that the benchmark rate could be reduced in December as the economy is expected to slow down in 2025 amid waning investor confidence.
“Dovish stance amid lower growth expectations may have also contributed to peso weakness,” Taningco added.
John Paolo R. Rivera, senior research fellow at state-run Philippine Institute for Development Studies, said the peso is weakening due to a mix of global and domestic factors.
tion will average 111,000 sqm from 2026 to 2028, signaling sustainable growth.
“Colliers recommends refreshing tenancy mixes and investing in experiential retail concepts to attract consumers in a competitive landscape, “ Bondoc said.
Externally, Rivera said the US dollar remains strong because markets expect US rates to stay higher for longer, pushing investors toward safer dollar assets.
At home, weak economic growth in the third quarter, delayed government spending and lingering confidence issues have made investors more cautious, reducing foreign inflows and putting additional pressure on the peso, Rivera added.
“The combination of stronger global demand for USD and softer sentiment toward the Philippine economy is driving the currency back toward its weakest levels,” Rivera said.
Meanwhile, the peso depreciation is considered a “healthy upward correction,” after slightly easing for most trading days since last week, according to Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation.
The anticipated rate cut of the US Federal Reserve could reduce the US dollar’s strength and help the peso, while seasonal remittances from overseas Filipinos could boost peso demand in December, Ricafort added.
Ricafort said the peso could range from P58.90 to P59.15 today, December 5.
“So we really had to recalibrate and as what [Trade Undersecretary] Ceferino Rodolfo said, the best time to recalibrate our targets is when we are about to grow,” added Sykimte.
Explaining the trend of the country’s outbound shipments, Sykimte noted that the Philippines has posted “record-breaking” export levels since 2022 or the post-pandemic.
“We were able to sustain that recovery from the pandemic but growth has been uneven,” Sykimte said, further explaining that services propelled the country’s total exports since the post-pandemic.
“When you look at the performance of merchandise and services exports, the last few years, it’s really services that’s driving the growth. But this year, it seems that goods are recovering,” added Sykimte. Through the lens of the country’s umbrella organization of exporters, Philexport President Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis Jr. pointed out: “Wel it’s a more realistic target considering the challenges we’re facing. Actually, even with these targets, we are doubtful until Trump got a bit mellow.”
Ortiz-Luis said these targets are more attainable now for the country’s exporters, recalling that the goals set in the PEDP 2023-2028 are far from the country’s actually generating in terms of outbound shipments.
“Our target was really far . . . so we’re delayed by a few years from the original target. But this is attainable,” added Ortiz-Luis.
Data presented by Sykimte showed that the Philippines breached the $100-billion mark in 2023 or the first year of the PEDP 2023-2028, when the country’s total exports reached $104 billion.
The trade data provided by Sykimte indicated that since 2022, goods exports have been on a downtrend while services exports were on an upturn.
Data showed that of the $98.8-billion exports in 2022, $57.7 billion were goods exports while $41.1 billion were services exports. Of the $104-billion total export earnings in 2023, $55.4 billion were goods exports while $48.3 billion were services exports. In 2024, out of the $107 billion export earnings, $55.1 billion were goods exports and $51.6 billion were services exports.
on (52 percent).
Filipino families also tend to view legacy in practical terms, with 69 percent wanting their wealth to be used for essential needs such as housing and healthcare, while others hope to enable long-term wealth creation (63 percent) or support their children’s education from basic schooling to college or vocational training (62 percent).
“Despite recognizing the importance of legacy planning for wealth preservation, most people are far from ready,” the study noted.
Only 18 percent of Filipino respondents indicated they felt fully prepared in terms of legacy arrangements in the event of their death.
When it comes to documentation, only 6 percent of Filipino respondents have completed and
communicated their legacy plans, while over half or 53 percent, have only partial plans and 25 percent admit to having nothing at all.
Many legacy discussions also lack structure, with roughly half of legacy planning conversations being informal or casual. However, this does not seem to be the favored option, with just 19 percent of respondents identifying this as the best setting.
The study revealed there is a rising recognition of the value of professional guidance in legacy planning, particularly among affluent and younger generations who are more willing to seek expert support.
There is a growing appetite for advice as 43 percent of Filipino respondents have already sought professional help for legacy planning, while another 46 percent
intend to do so.
The main barrier to seeking professional advice, according to more than half of Filipino respondents who have not done so, is not having enough wealth to justify it (49 percent), followed by difficulty in finding the right advisor (30 percent) and worries about the cost of professional financial advice (30 percent).
“People today want to pass on more than wealth; they want to give the next generation the knowledge and values to manage it wisely,” Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines, said.
“With financial literacy becoming a key part of one’s legacy, we are committed to helping families plan and build legacies that last by providing trusted advice and financial education that can bridge the gap between intention and confidence,” Sison added. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
Marcos inaugurates ₧3.1-B China-funded bridge in Davao City
By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox
AVAO CITY—President
DMarcos inaugurated on Thursday the fourth bridge across the Davao River running across several multibillion flood control and coastal road projects along the city’s southern edge with Davao Gulf.
He was accompanied by Public Works Secretary Vivencio Dizon, Presidential Assistant for Mindanao Anton Lagdameo and Secretary Leo Tereso Magno of the Mindanao Development Authority as he inspected the 1.3-kilometer bridge that is part of the 18.8-kilometer long coastal road.
This was his first high-profile visit to Davao City after his falling out with the Dutertes led to the handover of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court in The Hague, the Netherlands early this year.
Marcos said construction of the bridge was approved during his term in July 2022 and construction started in late 2023.
The Bucana bridge spans a length of 1,340 meters with four lanes with access lanes for pedestrians both sides.
He said the bridge was funded through China Official Development Assistance. “This was constructed by Chinese contractors, which obviously use good technology. They really know how to construct good bridges and other infrastructure, and fast, at the right price.”
He said the bridge will be opened for public use on December 15 in time for Filipino contractors
New law requires DA to hire thousands of agriculturists, veterinary professionals
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
to finish the roundabout section of the coastal road linking it to Roxas Avenue as one of the eastern exits.
The coastal road connects the eastern and western parts of the city, from Bago Gallera in the west to R. Castillo in the east. The western section covering 7.5 kilometers from Bago Gallera to the roundabout section linking with Tulip Drive along SM Ecoland was the first to be opened to the public after the Covid-19 pandemic. The section going to the Bucana Bridge remained closed pending its opening.
The entire coastal road costs P19.818 billion and Marcos said he has directed funding it the rest of the way to finish the project by December 2027.
The Davao River is also the site of the multibillion flood control that covers the embankment of the river system all the way to the mountainous area of Bukidnon and covering 160 kilometers.
In a July report to then Public Works Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, Regional Office 11 Director Juby B. Cordon said that the ongoing flood control rehabilitation projects were in the northern area of barangay Mandug. One of reinforcement projects in the DDF Village and Bayanihan Street sections of Davao River has been completed last month and one was expected to be completed this month. The two projects in barangay Mandug cost P241.25 million and funded under the 2024 Regular Infrastructure Program of the DPWH and undertaken by the DPWH Davao City Third District Engineering Office.
The Davao River is one of the 18 major river basins in the country.
AFP, PNP thank Marcos for base pay hike by 2026
By Rex Anthony Naval
THE Armed Forces (AFP)
on Wednesday night expressed gratitude to President Marcos for coming up with Executive Order 107 which mandated the increase of base pay of military and uniformed personnel by 2026.
“The AFP extends its utmost appreciation to our Commanderin-Chief, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., for prioritizing the welfare of our troops through the forthcoming increase in the base pay of military and [other] uniformed personnel under Executive Order 107,” it added.
The AFP said this gesture of support and recognition from the President serves as a significant boost to the morale of every soldier, sailor, airman, and marine.
“We, together with our families, acknowledge this news with humility and deep gratitude. It is a reminder of the overwhelming trust accorded in us by the government and the people we serve,” the military added.
With renewed support, the AFP assured the public that this directive will be implemented efficiently as we stand guard for the safety and security of the country.
“The AFP remains steadfast in upholding its mandate to defend the nation and serve with integrity, professionalism, and unwavering dedication,” it noted.
Relatedly, the acting National
Police (PNP) Chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., expressed thanks to the Chief Executive “for this largesse which will benefit the entire police service.”
“On behalf of the men and women of the PNP, I express my sincerest gratitude to our Commander-In-Chief for approving the increase of the base pay for police officers,” he added in a statement on Thursday.
Nartatez explained that the increase is a big boost to the morale of the police officers, adding that the President’s announcement was also timely for police forces as it came after the series of challenges they faced in the past months—from frontliners in the calamities to peace and order tasks for big rallies.
“This pay increase not only raises the morale of our personnel but also demonstrates the government’s appreciation for their commitment and service to the Filipino people,” he added.
On Wednesday, Marcos announced the increase in the base pay for military and uniformed personnel that include police officers.
The increase will also cover uniformed personnel from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Coast Guard (PCG), Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), and the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (Namria).
The pay increase will be implemented in three tranches: January 1, 2026; Jan. 1, 2027; and Jan. 1, 2028.
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is preparing for the mass hiring of professionals in the agriculture and animal science fields with the enactment of new laws, one of which returns agricultural extension to the agency.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco
Tiu Laurel Jr. said the agency expects to hire around 20,000 agriculturists once the bill, which returns agricultural extension workers to the DA, is approved.
“Each will monitor at least 25 hectares, which roughly translates to assisting 25 farmers,” Tiu Laurel said.
This comes after the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) released the results of the latest Agriculture Licensure Examination. Of 9,742 examinees, 6,678 passed.
The DA expressed hope that these fresh graduates will help fill the massive workforce needed to support the country’s agriculture
modernization.
President Marcos signed earlier this year Republic Act 12215 or the Philippine Agriculturist Act (PAA), which mandates that agriculture practitioners secure a license.
Furthermore, the DA chief said the recently enacted Animal Industry Development and Competitiveness Act would also require more veterinarians and graduates from allied fields to bolster the country’s livestock systems.
To prepare, Tiu Laurel said the agency has started coordinating with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
“I spoke with Chairwoman Shirley Agrupis about our manpower needs once the extension law is passed. We requested the reinstatement of agriculturist courses in state universities, and her response was very positive,” he said.
The DA chief said rebuilding a nationwide corps of extension
workers, whose supervision had been devolved to local governments, would improve the agency’s ability to gather timely, accurate data from the ground.
This will be critical in crafting sound policy and responding quickly to the needs of farmers, fisherfolk, and other players in the agri-value chain, he added.
“With real-time data, we can act faster and measure the impact of our programs—from seeds and fertilizers to palay prices. All the information will flow straight to our command center for quick analysis and decisive action.”
Agriculture accounts for around 9 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) but employs one in every five Filipinos.
The government is pushing for the sector’s modernization to create more jobs, increase the incomes of stakeholders, ensure the country’s food security, and lessen dependence on imported food.
mental concerns over this town’s extensive sand extraction resurfaced as quarry operators halted work amid a dispute with the municipal government over the collection of ecological tax.
Based on recommendations issued by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to the local government in October, the town must strictly monitor and limit heavy vehicles on its bridges after engineers found structural vulnerabilities caused by riverbed degradation.
The advisory came in the wake of recent typhoons that affected several parts of the country.
DPWH Pampanga Second Engineering District chief Gregorio Audea Jr. urged strict enforcement of existing load limits and cited recent bridge failures in other provinces, including the collapse of the Piggatan Bridge in Alcala, Cagayan. He said the Mancatian Bridge should remain open only to vehicles weighing 15 metric tons or less as its pile foundation has been exposed at several piers owing to extensive
riverbed scouring.
“In view of the recent incidents involving bridge failures including the collapse of Piggatan Bridge in Alcala, Cagayan, we respectfully seek the assistance of your office to ensure strict monitoring, control, and enforcement of existing traffic rules and regulations on maximum allowable load limits for bridiges undier your jursisdiction. Particularly the Mancatian Bridge which will remain passabie to vehicles with a gross weight not exceeding 15 metric tons,” the letter stated.
“This is due to the exposure of the bridge’s pile foundation at some piers caused by massive riverbed degradation.”
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) likewise issued a cease-and-desist order in October 2024 against quarry licensees citing unabated extraction that caused lateral erosion and posed risks to the SubicClark-Tarlac Expressway bridge at Porac and the Mancatian Bridge at the Pasig-Potrero tributary.
Porac Mayor Jing Capil said the shutdown highlighted the long-standing concerns about the ecological toll of heavy ex -
traction. Capil cited “deepening cuts” along the Pasig-Potrero river and damage near the Mancatian Bridge caused by lateral erosion and riverbed scouring that exposed pile drivers.
Capil said riverbanks have become increasingly unstable in recent years which raises fears of flooding in downstream communities during heavy rains, along with truck-induced road deterioration and worsening dust pollution.
“Our natural resources are being depleted and the environmental impact is already evident.
May mga rekomendasyon na ang DPWH at BCDA dahil matagal nang nararamdaman ang epekto ng quarrying,” Capil said in an interview on December 3.
“Marami tayong kailangang ayusin sa Porac, at kasama ito sa plano natin dahil apektado na pati ang Sctex at ang ating mga tulay,” he added.
Quarry operators, on December 3, served notice to the municipal government that they will stop procuring additional prepaid municipal ecological tax receipts starting December 5. They argued that the practice violates Executive Order 41 and Republic Act 7160 or the Local Government
Code of 1991. In a notice signed by Association of Porac Sand and Gravel Quarry Operators (APSGQO) president Antonio Ayson, operators said they will continue using previously purchased receipts until these are depleted but will make no further advance payments. They warned that they should not be treated as “de facto collecting agents” for the municipality through compelled advance purchases.
Quarry operations in Porac have been suspended since November 21 when about 40 operators and 850 haulers stopped work to protest what they called abrupt and unjust taxation. APSGQO said the municipality’s shift from a P100 per truck ecological fee to P100 per 12 cubic meter load amounts to “double taxation” citing existing provincial charges that include a P150 sand tax, a P250 administrative fee, and a P30 weighing fee per truck. Operators estimate losses at P38.2 million for quarry firms and P90 million for haulers in just 15 days, with Porac typically moving 1,500 to 2,000 truckloads of sand daily which is about half of Pampanga’s total output.
Community sites possible pilot of incremental housing
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
THE potential use of an incremental housing approach in community mortgage areas is now under study, following initial discussions between the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and a nongovernment organization.
The review centers on how the step-by-step construction
method, where families gradually build or expand their homes based on their needs and resources, could be applied within government housing programs for low-income communities.
“The incremental housing scheme will be fair and based on the capacity and current needs of our beneficiaries,” Housing Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling said in Filipino. “The type of housing will keep pace with the development of our beneficiaries.”
The talks examined possible integration of the approach into the Enhanced Community Mortgage Program (ECMP), one of the modalities under the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH) initiative.
Aliling asked the group Advocates of Housing for All (AHA) to identify at least two ECMP sites where the scheme could be tested, should it proceed to the pilot stage.
Fish production slightly down in October
THE country’s fish unloading volume slightly fell in October, according to the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA).
In its latest briefer, the PFDA said the fish unloading volume in October declined by 3.18 percent to 45,738.05 metric tons (MT) from the 47,240.81 MT recorded last year.
“The slight decline in the volume of fish unloading [...] can be
attributed to a combination of seasonal variations in fish catch, market demand fluctuations, and operational factors across PFDA regional fish ports,” the PFDA told the BusinessMirror on Thursday.
The agency noted that the Navotas Fish Port Complex, the largest RFP in the country, trailed behind as it unloaded 15,197.426 MT of fish, down by more than a quarter to 26 percent from the 20,622.75 MT of fish products delivered to
consumers in the same period last year.
Meanwhile, the Mindanao ports—Zamboanga Fish Port Complex and Davao Fish Port Complex – supplied 317.14 MT and 200.35 MT of fish, respectively.
These figures were lower than the 889.77 MT and 684.84 MT of fish delivered from the two Mindanao ports, respectively.
The agency also said the Sual Fish Port in Pangasinan delivered 7.35 MT of fish products in the
For their part, AHA representative Nathaniel von Einsiedel said the organization welcomed the government’s openness to explore approaches that may improve conditions for informal settler families.
DHSUD said it will continue consultations with communities and partner organizations as it evaluates the proposal and its fit within existing housing programs.
reference month.
Despite this, the PFDA said some of its fish ports still managed to record increases in an annual basis.
The General Santos Fish Port Complex held the lion’s share of the total unloading record delivered to consumers in the reference month at 23,897.916 MT, which was 18.3 percent higher than the 20,184.63 recorded in the previous year.
Sandro Marcos appears at ICI, Paolo Duterte refuses
By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573 & Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie
HOUSE Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos on Thursday appeared before the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) following accusations made by resigned Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co of having budget insertions for the past three years.
Marcos, however, opted to testify before the ICI in an executive session while stressing that his appearance was voluntary.
of the government, granted the request of the congressman, who represents Ilocos Norte.
In his letter to the ICI dated November 26, 2025, Marcos expressed his support to the IC’s ongoing investigation on the anomalies involving the government’s flood control projects.
“Let me state this clearly and without hesitation, I am willing to appear before the commission at any time. I welcome the opportunity to shed light on any matter that may assist your review,” Marcos said.
“I am a sitting member of Congress, considering that ICI is a creation of President Marcos Jr.,…the ICI appears without power nor jurisdiction over me.
The Constitutional Separation of Powers bars ICI, which is part of the Executive branch from including me in your Executive mandate,” Duterte said.
“Your power is purely limited to the Executive branch,” he added.
He accused the commission of issuing a “vague and ambiguous” invitation lacking factual and legal basis.
since they were implicated by Co as one of the major players in the massive corruption mess in the country.
The Davao legislator particularly cited flood control and other infrastructure projects in Regions 1 and VIII from 2022 to 2025.
ICI remains credible sans Singson–Palace
Castro, however, has yet to clarify if President Marcos has already accepted the resignation of Singson.
She allayed concerns that Singson’s resignation will not affect the operations and credibility of the ICI.
“There are many credible people in the ICI. It will not be affected. There are probably only some people who are spreading [these false information] so the people’s perspective of the ICI will be tainted,” she said.
Marcos’ legal counsel Michelle Lazaro cited “critical information that may be elicited from the legislator’s testimony which may jeopardize or compromise further investigation of the commission.”
The ICI , which was created by President Marcos to investigate anomalous flood control projects
“I came here on a voluntary basis so I can help with the ICI in the investigation. I was not served a subpoena. I am not subject to any investigation. However, I’m willing to give and tell the ICI anything that I might know that may further the investigation,” the President’s son told reporters in an ambush interview.
Easier to convict plunderers if De Lima bill were enacted
CITING persistent challenges in proving plunder under existing laws and jurisprudence, a lawmaker on Thursday filed a measure seeking to criminalize illicit enrichment and illicit transfer by amending the Revised Penal Code.
In House Bill 6626, or the proposed Anti-Illicit Enrichment and Anti-Illicit Transfer Act, House of Representatives Deputy Minority Leader Leila M. de Lima proposed to amend the Revised Penal Code to establish a new and more effective legal mechanism to combat corruption and strengthen accountability in the public service.
The proposal will be added to Chapter Two (Malfeasance and Misfeasance in Office), Title Seven (Crimes Committed by Public
Officers), Book II of Republic Act 3815, also known as the Revised Penal Code.
“In light of the serious observations about and criticisms against the Plunder Law and the court decisions interpreting it—coupled with the view that charges for malversation, bribery, graft, and corruption may not be enough given the magnitude of wrongdoings in the biggest corruption scandal in Philippine history—there is a need to come up with a new, effective legal tool to put an end to corruption and hold all those involved accountable,” de Lima pointed out.
“Think about it: Very few have been convicted of plunder, and one was even pardoned. In colossal corruption scandals such as the
See “Plunderers,” A5
Duterte rejects ICI invitation IN contrast to the young Marcos, Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte rejected the invitation of the ICI for him to appear before the ICI and shed light on allegations of anomalies in flood control projects in his district.
In a strongly-worded letter addressed to ICI Chairman Andres Reyes, Duterte cited the lack of jurisdiction by the ICI over members of the House of Representatives.
Duterte noted that the ICI was created by Marcos through Executive Order 94.
Duterte said the Executive branch already has full access to needed documents and information through agencies like Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Justice, Department of Budget Management, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
Duterte also urged the ICI to instead investigate the President, his family, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez, “forthwith,”
DESPITE the resignation of former Public Works Secretary Rogelio L. Singson from the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), the fact-finding panel remains credible, the Palace said on Thursday.
Palace Press Officer Claire
Castro confirmed Singson has resigned as one of the three commissioners of the ICI due to health reasons and stress.
Singson also said he decided to leave the ICI since he already completed his part in the fact-finding initiative of the ICI.
“The work of ICI is really difficult. They have meetings almost every day. They hold hearings. They must read piles and piles of documents. The work of ICI is really no joke,” she said in Filipino.
“There are many credible people who will remain there,” she added. The other remaining members of the ICI are its chairman, former Supreme Court Justice Andres B. Reyes Jr. and Rossana A. Fajardo. She also said Singson will continue to assist in the implementation of its flood control project masterplan.
“It seems like his role is over [in the fact-finding panel] since lawyers are now needed because almost everyone has been investigated and maybe his expertise now is to provide his assistance to the DPWH,” Castro said. With Samuel Medenilla
Country can survive ongoing purge–Marcos
PBy Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
RESIDENT Marcos said the country can survive the “bleeding” from the ongoing surgical purge of corruption and other anomalies in flood control projects, which he likened to a cancer that needs to be excised from government bureaucracy.
In his speech during the Malacañang Media Year-End Fellowship on Wednesday evening, Marcos apologized for the disruption caused by the anti-corruption drive, which he maintained was necessary.
“I am sorry that the people suffered because of it, but it had to be done. Otherwise, we would move things the same way that we have always—things that we have discovered that have been being done for the last three decades will just
continue,” Marcos said.
Government economic managers said the campaign has contributed to lower economic growth in the second half of the year since it resulted in slower government spending as it vetted ongoing public works to determine if they are substandard or non-existent.
The initiative also prompted some business groups and other stakeholders to express concern about the persistence of corruption in the government sparking several massive demonstrations.
Some former and incumbent lawmakers, government officials, and private contractors were charged in connection to multibillion irregularities in flood control projects.
Marcos jokingly said that his administration made sure the media got a lot of explosive exposes and scandals to report this year.
The Chief Executive, however, is still determined to push through with the campaign on corruption during his administration, which he said will leave the country in a better state.
“So we have to go through all that pain, go through the difficulty, go through the anguish the country is going through now. But we are Filipinos. We may be bleeding now, but we will also heal very, very quickly,” he said.
Aside from public works anomalies, Marcos also said he wants to address the issue of “fake news.”
“Fake news has taken too much of the space. In the beginning, we thought it was funny, it was entertaining, but now it’s become damaging. And that is something that we have to be concerned about,” he said.
He sought the assistance of the media to combat the spread of false information.
“The government needs the help of all the media to try and explain to people that you have to be more discerning about what you read and what you believe, and what you take on,” Marcos said.
“We have to continue and try and do it because it is important that people know the truth, that people know what is happening, truly. That the people are not led into this crazy mind game that people have been playing without any connection anymore to reality. That is why I think we all have to work together,” he added.
The President was accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos, Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto, Acting Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave M. Gomez, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro and other senior Palace officials.
Reverse flood control at San Juan River
Story & photos by Nonnie
Pelayo
WHILE dredging and widening of waterways has always been considered as a good, if not the best, flood mitigation measure, the reverse, is being done in Quezon City. At the portion of San Juan River that passes through Roxas District, the waterway is being “reclaimed,” to the extent that part of the river is now almost at the same level as Waling Waling Street.
The result? A flooded neighborhood at the slightest rain. The running joke is that if two inebriated residents relieve themselves at the river, the street would be flooded.
For several months now, workers have been busy at that site. Pile driving, sheet laying, and yes dumping soil and muck into the river.
The activities in the construction site have been a nuisance for the residents, who hoped that in the end, they will enjoy the “fruits” of the multi-million flood-control project.
But to their horror, instead of mitigating the floods that regularly visit the area, the situation got worse, a slight rain brings kneedeep or deeper flood.
Observers said that it does not take a rocket scientist to know that the best way to keep water running is to deepen and widen its course, which in this case is the San Juan River.
However, some bright engineers at the Department of Public Works and Highways and city hall, in all probability egged on by a contractor and supported by a congressman (remember the
insertions in the budget) had the project approved and funded. Or, could it have been the reverse? Thus, the watery hell that the residents now suffer. And their misery does not end there. Guess what will happen when that soil and muck they dumped at the river bank eventually get in the river bed – San Juan River will be at the same level as the street or even higher. This led the residents to plead with the rocket scientists at DPWH and city hall—please, please
www.businessmirror.com.ph
SC allows OSG re-entry in Duterte cases
TBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE Supreme Court has granted the manifestation filed by the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) seeking re-entry as counsel for government officials named as respondents in the petitions assailing the arrest and turnover of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court (ICC) to face trial for crimes against humanity in connection with his bloody antiillegal drug war campaign.
“The SC granted the Manifestation with Entry of Appearance filed by the Office of the Solicitor General [OSG], allowing the OSG to resume its role as counsel for the respondents in the case,” the SC said in a statement.
The Court granted Solicitor General Darlene Berberabe’s manifestation during the Court’s en banc session on December 3.
The case stemmed from a petition filed by former President and Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, who as National Police chief was Duterte’s chief antidrugs war implementer.
The petition challenges Duterte’s arrest and the Philippine government’s cooperation with the ICC.
Berberabe’s predecessor, former solicitor general Menardo
Guevarra filed a manifestation and motion dated March 21, 2025, asking the Court to consider its recusal from the petition for certiorari and prohibition filed by Duterte and dela Rosa seeking to enjoin the government from cooperating with the ICC.
Guevarra served as Duterte’s Justice secretary.
The Court granted OSG’s recusal to represent the respondents namely Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, former Justice Secretary and now Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, Interior and Local Government Secretary Juan Victor Remulla, then National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, former PNPCriminal Investigation and Detection Group director Gen. Nicolas Torre III , Foreign
Discaya’s car importer faces deportation case
THE Bureau of Immigration said that a deportation case will be filed against Cao Cheng, 41, the alleged importer of couple Curlee and Sarah Discaya’s luxury vehicles.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado told reporters that the agency received information from Land Transportation Office (LTO) Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao that Cao was arrested for several violations, including obstruction of apprehension and prosecution of criminal offender, illegal use of alias,
false representation, and willful misrepresentation of material information last November 27 in Makati.
Cao is currently detained at the Special Operation Division, Highway Patrol Group, in Camp Rafael T. Crame, Quezon City.
Earlier, Lacanilao said that aside from Cao, they are also looking for other Chinese nationals who are co-owners of ACH Motor Center in Makati City, which was raided by the Bureau of Customs in February 2025.
Aside from the BI, the LTO also coordinated with the BOC
to determine if the luxury cars of their company were legally imported.
On the other hand, Viado said the LTO provided documents showing that Cao has been misrepresenting himself using the name Martin Zhao in his LTO records.
The use of a false identity in itself, according to Viado, indicates that a foreign national is undesirable and should not be allowed to remain in the country.
“He was found to have fraudulently acquired documentation using a different
Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner and the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
Guevarra also recused from defending the government on the petitions for a writ of habeas corpus filed by Duterte’s children Davao Mayor Sebastian Duterte, Davao Rep. Paolo Duterte and Veronica A. Duterte.
In both cases, Guevarra maintained his position that the ICC has no jurisdiction over the Philippines following its withdrawal as a state party to the Rome Statute, which created the ICC, on March 17, 2019.
However, on December 1, 2025, the OSG informed the SC that it was again entering its appearance as counsel for the respondents and requested copies of all Court issuances
Plunderers. . .
Continued from A4
name, and this is a clear case of misrepresentation,” said Viado. “No foreign national should use fictitious identities in transactions in the Philippines,” he added.
Viado said that Cao is set to be transferred to the BI’s facility in Taguig City after inquest and medical examination.
He faces a case with the BI, and if found guilty, will face deportation and blacklisting.
However, his pending criminal cases would have to be resolved first before he can be deported. Joel R. San Juan
Congressmen affirm support for Dy
IN a display of consolidated political force, a total of 97 lawmakers from Metro Manila and Mindanao have declared their “unequivocal support” for Speaker Faustino G. Dy III, amid heightened scrutiny of the House of Representatives.
The Metro Manila bloc— composed of 30 of the capital region’s 33 district representatives—and the 67-strong Mindanao contingent led by Senior Deputy Speaker Ferdinand L. Hernandez issued separate but aligned statements extolling Dy’s “calm, principled, and unifying” approach to governance. Their declarations followed earlier endorsements from the 39-member Northern Luzon Alliance and 44 lawmakers from the Partylist Coalition Foundation Inc., collectively forming the broadest backing yet for the Speaker.
The Northern Luzon Alliance, led by House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos III and Deputy Speakers Kristine Singson-Meehan and Francisco
Fish. . .
Continued from A3
For its Luzon ports, the agency said the Lucena Fish Port Complex unloaded 1,437.84 MT of fish products in October, higher than the previous year’s 1,328.94 MT.
Fish delivered from the Bulan Fish Port Complex surged by 75 percent year-on-year to 2,221.7
Paolo Ortega V, had earlier issued a manifesto affirming Dy’s “steadfast leadership, character, and integrity.”
Party-list representatives likewise cited his role in maintaining stability and lowering tensions amid rumors of a leadership shakeup.
In a November 24 letter, Metro Manila lawmakers credited Dy for helping the chamber navigate “a particularly tumultuous time” following controversies involving alleged corruption in flood-control projects.
“Despite this significant challenge, your calmness, sincerity, and principled approach have been a unifying force within the chamber,” the letter said.
They also lauded Dy’s stance on the Anti-Dynasty Bill—particularly his willingness to pursue it “even if it may affect your own family”—saying it sends a strong message to lawmakers that Congress must finally confront longstanding issues of political power concentration. The
MT in the reference month, from the 1,265.45 MT last year. The PFDA said the sole port in the Visayas – Iloilo Fish Port Complex – managed to supply 2,458.33 MT of fish to consumers in October, up by 8.62 percent from 2,263.98 MT recorded in the previous year.
Earlier, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laure Jr. said the DA expects fisheries output to decline this year owing to the
bloc also commended his role in the “timely and transparent” passage of the 2026 national budget, noting its prioritization of health, education, and agriculture.
Declaring that “going back to the past is not an option,” the Metro Manila contingent vowed full support for Dy’s reform agenda and his campaign to rebuild public trust through “game-changing legislation.”
Mindanao lawmakers, in a separate manifesto, likewise voiced “firm, united, and unwavering support” for the Speaker. Describing Mindanao as a region “long standing at the crossroads of development, peace, and nation-building,” they emphasized that the current political moment requires leadership grounded in “stability, continuity, and the rule of law.”
Dy, they said, has consistently demonstrated “steady, respectful, and institution-centered leadership,” enabling dialogue, easing political tensions, and keeping the House focused on its constitutional duties
absence of dry spell.
“Our prediction for this year’s fisheries production is definitely lower because last year was an El Niño year,” Tiu Laurel told reporters in a previous interview.
“Based on my 38 years of experience in the fishing industry, whenever the water is warm, production is always higher,” he said. “Since this year isn’t an El Niño year, production will be lower.”
despite the challenges facing government institutions.
They cited Dy’s commitment to institutional integrity and his efforts to uphold fairness, accountability, and democratic processes at a time when public trust remains fragile. His leadership, they stressed, provides “the stability and predictability needed to deliver reforms and protect the national interest.”
“As representatives from Mindanao—an island that deeply understands the value of peace, stability, and credible governance—we stand behind Speaker Dy because he embodies the leadership required to move our nation toward a stronger, more transparent, and more accountable government,” the manifesto read.
Earlier, the 45-member Visayan Bloc, led by Bacolod Rep. Albee Benitez, also solidified its backing for Dy. Benitez affirmed that Dy continues to enjoy the overwhelming support and confidence of House members.
Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
Figures from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that the total volume of fisheries production in the third quarter fell by 7.5 percent to 894,320 MT, from 966,730 MT in the previous year.
Historical data showed that the latest data represented the lowest level of fisheries output since the 852,378 MT recorded in the third quarter of 2004. Ada Pelonia
related to the case. In a statement, Berberabe maintained that it is the duty of the OSG to defend the government being its statutory counsel, especially in cases of utmost importance.
“Our decision to enter anew our appearance in this case is based on our appreciation of the totality of the facts, including those that have unfolded since March 2025 [the time that OSG recused from this and other related cases] and our understanding of the law as it should apply to those facts,” Berberabe said.
“We will address the intricacy of the legal issue involved in the case before the Supreme Court as mandated by our rules and the demands of ethics,” she added.
ongoing flood control projects controversy—cases that could very well happen again—it is neither right nor reasonable that it remains so difficult to hold perpetrators accountable, or that the charges filed do not match the gravity of their offenses. This bill introduces a new crime—one that carries penalties as serious as plunder but is much easier to prove,” she added.
The measure removes the barriers that make prosecutions under the plunder law difficult.
“It simplifies the process. If, for instance, the Ombudsman discovers through a lifestyle check properties such as land, yachts, houses, condominiums, helicopters, shares of stock, or businesses that are absent from a government official’s Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Networth (SALN)—and the official cannot explain them— these may be deemed illicit enrichment. If the evidence of guilt is strong and the unexplained wealth exceeds P50 million, the offense becomes non-bailable, similar to plunder,” de Lima explained.
She said numerous countries have already enacted similar laws, and international studies have affirmed their effectiveness as simple yet powerful tools for curbing corruption.
She noted that State Parties to the UN Convention Against Corruption (Uncac), including the Philippines, have pledged to consider criminalizing illicit enrichment.
Illicit enrichment is defined as the accumulation of unexplained wealth by a public official or employee that is grossly disproportionate to his or her lawful income and legitimately acquired assets.
The bill also criminalizes the related offense of “illicit
transfer,” which penalizes any public official or employee who transfers or conveys property acquired through illicit enrichment. If enacted into law, any public officer or employee found guilty of illicit enrichment shall face penalties ranging from arresto mayor in its maximum period to prision mayor in its maximum period (six months to 12 years of imprisonment) for illicit wealth not exceeding P10 million; prision mayor in its maximum period to reclusion temporal in its minimum period (12 years and one day to 14 years and 18 months) for amounts over P10 million but not more than P20 million; reclusion temporal in its minimum period to reclusion temporal in its maximum period (14 years, 8 months and one day to 20 years) for illicit enrichment exceeding P20 million but not more than P50 million; and reclusion perpetua in its minimum to maximum period (20 years and one day to 40 years) for amounts greater than P50 million. Regardless of the amount involved, anyone convicted of illicit enrichment shall also suffer the accessory penalty of absolute perpetual disqualification from public office.
The bill, likewise, criminalizes illicit transfer, imposing prision correccional in its maximum period, or a fine of up to P100,000, or both, on any public officer or employee who transfers or conveys illicitly acquired property, as well as on any private individual who knowingly receives such property. Any asset, property, business enterprise, or material possession proven to have been illicitly acquired will be forfeited in favor of the State upon conviction. The measure also clarifies that the government’s right to file illicit enrichment cases is not prescribed and cannot be negated by laches or estoppel.
DepEd allocates ₧131M for literacy programs in 131 underserved schools
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3
THE Department of Education
(DepEd) has allocated P131million Needs-Based Program Support Funds after activating the Bayang Bumabasa Initiative to support 131 priority schools in accelerating literacy gains.
The initiative, unveiled during the 2025 National Literacy Conference, provides up to P1 million to each identified school to implement locally responsive and contextualized reading programs.
The 131 schools, including 25 located in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, were identified through the School Year (SY) 2024-2025 Comprehensive Rapid Literacy Assessment (CRLA) as priority areas for additional support. By utilizing this data, DepEd moved beyond random allocation to pinpoint exactly where foundational support is crucial, ensuring the aid reaches the farthest corners of the archipelago.
Recipient schools represent the diverse and challenging landscapes of the Philippines. In the
north, the fund reaches the upland agricultural communities served by Capissayan Norte Elementary School in Gattaran, Cagayan.
In the Visayas, it climbs the interior highlands to support schools like Hiduroma Elementary School in San Jose De Buan,Samar. Further south, it extends to the coastal fringes of Sultan Kudarat to aid Maguid Elementary School in the Municipality of Palimbing.
“The Bayang Bumabasa Initiative is about equity. We are directing resources specifically to the schools that require the most support — from municipal centers to the most far-flung communities to ensure that no school is left behind,” said Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara. Angara said that they trust
their school leaders to know what their students need.
“Whether it is more books, better reading nooks, or specific teaching tools, this grant empowers them to build the right environment for their learners with the support of their community,” he said.
Instead of a top-down approach, schools will utilize the funds based on their own Literacy Improvement Plans. This autonomy allows them to tailor strategies—including integrating the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program — to fit the unique context of their community.
To ensure the grant translates into direct classroom impact, schools are empowered to use the funds for specific interventions for Grade 1 to 3 learners outlined in their School Improvement Plan and Annual Implementation Plan for SY 2025-2026. For instance, schools may utilize the grant to:
•Develop localized resources: print and bind storybooks featuring local folklore and mothertongue materials to better engage young leaders;
•Revitalize learning spaces: transform a dilapidated classroom into a vibrant reading nook complete with carpets, beanbags, and child-friendly shelving (capped at PHP 50,000); or
•Procure remedial tools: pur -
chase semi-expendable instructional tools like magnetic letters, flashcards, and reading materials (below PHP 15,000) for afterschool literacy programs.
The initiative also activates a “Whole-of-Nation” support system involving Local Government Units (LGU) and Teacher Education Institutions (TEI), and civil society.
To access the funds, schools need to coordinate with their Local Literacy Council (LLC) or Local School Board (LSB). Partners like Synergia Foundation will assist schools in coordinating with LLCs and LSBs, fostering a partnership where Mayors are encouraged to provide counterpart support via the Special Education Fund.
TEIs, including top universities like the University of the Philippines, De La Salle University, and Mindanao State University-IliganInstitute of Technology, will serve as academic partners.
They will deploy pre-service teachers who will provide on-theground assistance in literacy instruction to strengthen classroom workforce support.
This collective effort—financial grants from DepEd, political will from LGUs, and technical mentoring from TEIs—forms the backbone of the Bayang Bumabasa Initiative to ensure that every learner in the Philippines catches up.
Your purchases can build classrooms with the new BDO HOPE Mastercard
ANEW credit card, the BDO HOPE Mastercard, was launched on Wednesday in which every use directly contributes to building classrooms in priority public schools.
The initiative, jointly developed by BDO Unibank Inc., Friends of Hope Inc. (HOPE), and DepEd, creates a long-term fundraising stream, a credit card which is also a practical, citizen-powered boost to the country’s classroom construction efforts.
“Every swipe gives renewed hope to every learner,” said Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara.
For every P1,000 in qualified spending, BDO donates P5 to HOPE, with DepEd guiding school selection and ensuring all projects comply with national standards.
A portion of annual membership fees—P200 for principal cards and P100 for supplementary cards—also goes to the classroom fund.
Supported by a historic budget allocation for the education sector of President
Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration for 2026, Angara highlighted the importance of the partnership in closing longstanding gaps in school infrastructure.
Magsisilbi itong isa sa mga konkretong landas upang mabawasan ang classroom gap sa bansa—isang hamong maaaring abutin pa ng dekada kung hindi natin pagtutulungan ,” Angara said.
DepEd said the BDO HOPE Mastercard offers a “zero-cost-to-government” support mechanism that allows everyday consumers to contribute to building safe and adequate learning spaces. Under the partnership, BDO shoulders all development, production, and marketing costs of the new card and manages the processing and remittance of donations.
“Every child deserves a safe and inspiring space to grow and achieve their aspirations,” said Ma. Nannette R. Regala, Senior Vice President and Consumer Banking Group Marketing Head of BDO.
A9
Nartatez: PNP okay for possible bounty to be given for arrest of ex-Rep. Co
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday is amenable to the possibility of the national government offering a reward for the capture of ex-Rep. Zaldy Co.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, in a statement, said they are working closely with the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Office of the President on all possible
measures to fast-track ongoing efforts to locate and arrest the former lawmaker.
“At this point, the Philippine National Police has not yet made a formal recommendation but we are
ready to support whatever policy decision the national government may take. Our focus remains on locating and arresting Zaldy Co using all legal means available,” he said.
A reward system, he explained, may widen the scope of actionable information from communities.
Last month, the Department of Justice announced a P1-million reward for any information that
could lead to the arrest of Cassandra Ong, who faces a qualified human trafficking charge related to the POGO hub Lucky South 99.
“Co,” A9
Editor: Angel R. Calso
Myrnohrad nearly surrounded, pounded by glide bombs as Ukraine pleads for aid
By Isobel Koshiw The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—Exclusive drone footage obtained by The Associated Press on Wednesday shows a devastated Ukrainian town nearly encircled by Russian forces near the city that Moscow this week claimed to now control.
Barely a street appears to be untouched in Myrnohrad in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region, 12 kilometers (7 miles) from the key logistics hub of Pokrovsk. Some destruction is so fresh that smoke was still rising in the footage shot in the past few days.
of personnel. People sit there for weeks.”
Ukraine’s eastern command on Wednesday said on Telegram it was channeling supplies to troops in Myrnohrad. Hodzenko said they were relying on ground-robot drones to carry food and water to remaining soldiers. He did not say how many were left in town, in keeping with military restrictions.
Myrnohrad had a population of about 46,000 before Russia’s fullscale invasion in February 2022. It has since suffered the same fate as dozens of other Ukrainian towns and villages in the east and south as they have nearly emptied of people.
battlefield successes in recent weeks,” Ushakov told reporters. “These developments had a positive impact on the negotiations.”
“They are trying to simply erase the (town) from the face of the earth,” said Oleksii Hodzenko, press officer of the drone battalion of the 38th Marine Brigade, whose soldiers were still fighting inside Myrnohrad on Wednesday. The town is almost encircled by Russian forces, according to DeepState, an open-source Ukrainian map widely used by the military and analysts.
Hodzenko said that while there was still a route out for Ukrainian troops, Russian efforts had made logistics in and out of the town difficult: “We (can only) very rarely carry out even a small rotation
Myanmar election tensions escalate as resistance group detains candidate
BANGKOK—An election candidate in the strife-torn nation of Myanmar has been detained by a resistance group opposed to army rule, state media reported Wednesday, the first known such action before the polls scheduled for later this month.
The detention of Wai Lin Htet, 37, a candidate of the Shan and Nationalities Democratic Party, highlights ongoing tensions in Myanmar, where local resistance groups clash with the military government as it tries to hold the Dec. 28 election.
The Magway region has been one of the strongholds of armed resistance since the army seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021. After peaceful demonstrations were put down with lethal force, many opponents of military rule took up arms, forming the People’s Defense Force, which is now engaged in combat in many areas of the country.
Critics have denounced the election plan as a sham to normalize the military takeover, and several opposition organizations, including armed resistance groups, have said they will try to derail them.
Jeremy Laurence, a spokesperson for the U.N.’s human rights office, warned last Friday that the ballot would be conducted in an environment “rife with threats and violence” and actively suppressed political participation.
A report in the state-run Myanma Alinn newspaper said that Wai Lin Htet was detained at 3 p.m. on Saturday by three members of a local resistance group who arrived on two motorbikes, while he was at home with his family in Pakokku Township, in central Myanmar’s Magway Region.
It identified the three as members of the People’s Defense Force, whose many local and regional forces make up the armed wing of the pro-democracy movement battling the army. The unit responsible for his detention wasn’t further identified, and there were no public statements about the action.
The report said that authorities were seeking the arrest of the three under a section of a new electoral law that carries a maximum penalty of seven years in prison for detaining a parliamentary candidate and preventing him from conducting election activities.
According to reports from local media, including the online news site Myanmar Now, nearly 100 people, including film directors, have been arrested under the election law since it was enacted in July, and some of them have received sentences of up to 49 years in prison.
Sai Ai Pao, chairman of the Shan and Nationalities Democratic Party—also known as the
See “Myanmar,” A9
Over more than a year, the assaults by Russian forces using glide bombs that weigh up to 500 kilograms (1,100 pounds), as well as swarms of attack drones and artillery, have turned the town into an uninhabitable shell.
“When you sit at the command post and hear the exchanges between (Ukrainian) units, once every few minutes a radio
comes in, ‘KAB (glide bomb) on Myrnohrad,’” Hodzenko said. “As of now, all our fighters can do, and all they do, is hold the city as best they can, exerting absolutely inhuman, titanic efforts.”
Kremlin presidential aide Yurii Ushakov said Wednesday that Rus -
sia’s progress on the battlefield had strengthened its negotiating position in talks with the United States on the US-drafted plan aimed at ending the war.
“The progress and nature of the negotiations were, of course, influenced by the Russian army’s
On Tuesday, Russia’s defense ministry claimed troops had taken control of nearby Pokrovsk, posting a video of Russian soldiers holding the Russian flag in the city’s center. The claim was rejected by Ukraine’s General Staff. Col. Volodymyr Polevyi, head of communications for the 7th Corps Assault Brigade, which is stationed on that part of the front, told the AP on Wednesday that Ukrainian forces were still fighting in the northern part of city. Hodzenko urged Western allies to continue supporting Ukraine.
“Despite some agreements or disagreements between the US, Russia, the European Union, NATO, we still need help, in particular military help,” Hodzenko said, and added: “In order for the West not to go to war with Russia after a certain time, the West must certainly help us in any possible way.”
Lebanon ‘far from’ diplomatic normalization or economic relations with Israel, PM says
BBy Abby Sewell The Associated Press
EIRUT—Lebanon’s prime minister said Wednesday that his country was “far from” diplomatic normalization or economic relations with Israel, despite a move toward direct negotiations between the two countries aimed at defusing tensions.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s comments to a small group of journalists in Beirut came in contradiction to a statement by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Israel would send an envoy to talks with Lebanese diplomatic and economic officials, which he described as an “initial attempt to create a basis for relations and economic cooperation” between the two countries.
Lebanon and Israel both announced the appointment of civilian members to a previously military-only committee monitoring enforcement of the USbrokered ceasefire that halted the latest war between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah a year ago.
The civilian members—Simon Karam, an attorney and former Lebanese ambassador to the US, and Uri Resnick, the Israeli National Security Council’s deputy director for foreign policy—took part in Wednesday’s meeting of the mechanism.
Along with Israel and Lebanon, the committee includes representatives of the US, France and the U.N. peacekeeping force known as UNIFIL.
Lebanon and Israel don’t have diplomatic relations and have been officially in a state of war since 1948. The move to hold civilian talks appeared to be a step toward the direct bilateral talks between Israel and Lebanon that Washington has pushed for.
However, Salam said Lebanon is still committed to the 2002 Arab peace plan that conditions normalization of diplomatic relations with Israel on the creation of a Palestinian state—a prospect
to which Netanyahu’s administration has been adamantly opposed.
“Economic relations would be part of such normalization, so then obviously anyone following the news would know that we are not there at all,” Salam said.
A debate over weapons
HIS comments also come amid fears of a new escalation by Israel against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Since the November 2024 ceasefire, Israel has continued to launch near-daily attacks in Lebanon that it says aim to stop the group from rebuilding its capabilities after suffering heavy blows in the recent war.
Lebanon has been deeply divided over calls for Hezbollah to disarm. In August, the Lebanese government announced a plan to consolidate all weapons in the hands of the state by the end of the year, but it later backed off of the deadline.
Hezbollah officials have said the group will not consider disarmament until Israel withdraws from all Lebanese territory and halts its attacks.
Salam said Lebanon is on track to implement the first phase of the disarmament plan—under which the Lebanese army should have a monopoly on arms in the area south of the Litani River, near the border with Israel—by the end of the year. The exception is several border points that Israeli forces are still occupying, he said.
The remaining phases of the five-phase plan, which would cover the rest of the country, currently “don’t have a time frame,” he said.
The lack of a firm timeline is unlikely to satisfy Israel, which has been threatening to escalate its military actions in Lebanon if Hezbollah is not fully disarmed.
Salam said that Lebanon had appointed a civilian representative to the ceasefire committee at the request of the US and Israel.
“We are ready to negotiate with civilian participation,” he said. “I hope that this will help defuse the tension.”
A ceasefire with vague enforcement
SALAM also said Lebanon is ready to put in place a “verification mechanism” to investigate alleged violations of the ceasefire.
The November 2024 agreement required Lebanon to stop armed groups from attacking Israel and Israel to halt “offensive” military actions in Lebanon. It said Israel and Lebanon can act in “self-defense,” without elaborating. Under the ceasefire agreement, both sides can report violations to the monitoring committee, but the deal is vague on enforcement.
THIS image made from a December 2025 video provided by the Ukrainian Defense Forces shows the heavily-bombed city of Myrnohrad in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region.
See “Lebanon,” A9
China’s Xi and France’s Macron pledge cooperation on global crises and trade
By Huizhong Wu & Ken Moritsugu
The Associated Press
EIJING—China and France
Bpledged deeper cooperation on global issues like the war in Ukraine and trade, as France prepares to take on the presidency of the Group of Seven next year.
French President Emmanuel Macron met with China’s Xi Jinping on Thursday morning as part of a three-day state visit focusing on trade and diplomacy.
France seeks help to end Ukraine war
THE French leader is seeking to involve Beijing in pressuring Russia toward a ceasefire with Ukraine after a recent burst of diplomacy around a US-led peace plan.
“We are facing the risk of the disintegration of the international order that brought peace to the world for decades, and in this context, the dialogue between China
and France is even more essential than ever,” Macron said Thursday.
“I hope that China will join our call, our efforts to achieve, as soon as possible, at the very least a ceasefire in the form of a moratorium on strikes targeting critical infrastructure,” he said.
Xi did not respond to France’s call, but said that “China supports all efforts that work towards peace” and called for a peace deal that all parties will accept.
China has provided strong diplomatic support to Russia since its invasion of Ukraine and has also extended an economic lifeline through increased trade.
Xi also announced that China will provide $100 million to help Gaza’s ongoing humanitarian crisis and to support the territory’s recovery and reconstruction.
Xi called for building greater political trust with France by showing each other support while demonstrating each side’s “independence.”
“No matter how the external environment changes, both sides as major powers should always demonstrate independence and strategic vision, show mutual understanding and mutual support for each other on core matters and major critical issues,” he said.
“China and France should demonstrate their sense of responsibility, raise high the banner of multilateralism...and firmly stand on the right side of history,” he added.
Both are eager for more trade TRADE was another major focus of Thursday’s agenda.
Xi said during the joint appearance that both sides had agreed to work towards greater economic cooperation in areas of aerospace, aeronautics, nuclear energy, as well as new areas such as green industries and AI. They signed 12 agreements, including ones calling for cooperation on a new round of panda conservation efforts and
exchanges in higher education and research.
The European Union bloc runs a massive trade deficit with China: over 300 billion euros ($348 billion) last year. China alone represents 46% of France’s total trade deficit.
France and the European Union have described China as simultaneously a partner, a competitor and a systemic rival. Recent years have been marked by trade disputes across a range of industries after the EU undertook a probe into Chinese electric vehicles subsidies and China responded with investigations into imports of European brandy, pork and dairy products.
But France was able to get an exemption for most cognac producers in July.
China, facing its own economic slump, is also signaling it wants more business.
“China’s open door will only
open wider,” Xi said, saying that the country plans to “expand market access, and opening up areas” of investment “and guide the crossborder, orderly, and rational layout of industrial and supply chains.”
Xi also called for both sides to continue to promote mutually beneficial cooperation between China and the EU.
Some argue bilateral deals could undermine EU EXPERTS have said they expect Beijing to use this visit to strengthen its individual ties with one of Europe’s most important economies, at the expense of the greater EU bloc.
“China seeks to drive a wedge into this EU approach by making deals bilaterally with individual EU members,” said Lyle Morris, a senior fellow on Foreign Policy and National Security as the Asia Society.
Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron touched down in Beijing Wednesday evening.
On Thursday morning, Macron was greeted by a military band and groups of children waving flags at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People. The two leaders attended the closing of a Franco-Chinese business forum Thursday. Macron’s agenda also includes meetings with Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress, and Chinese Premier Li Qiang. The French presidential couple will then travel to Chengdu in China’s Sichuan province. Chengdu is also home to the Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, where Yuan Meng, who was the first giant panda born in France and was named by first lady Brigitte Macron, is now staying. France last month sent back to China a couple of star giant pandas who lived in the country for 13 years and gave birth to three cubs.
Wu reported from Bangkok.
Japan’s Takaichi is winning fans not with politics but with her style and ‘work, work, work’ mantra
By Mari Yamaguchi
TThe Associated Press
OKYO—The pledge by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to “work, work, work, work and work” for her country has been named the catchphrase of the year, recognizing the effort Japan’s first female leader had to make to reach the top.
The ultraconservative Takaichi uttered the phrase in October when she was elected as head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. Many were initially as worried about her work ethic as supportive of her enthusiasm.
In a country notorious for long working hours, especially for working women who are also burdened with homemaking and caregiving, overwork is a sensitive topic. The recognition triggered a mixed reaction, with some inter -
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Badr bin Hamad El-Busaidi, during a bilateral meeting in July and again in a phone call in November. Lazaro expressed her “sincerest appreciation” to the Sultanate of Oman for its role in securing their freedom. The Philippines has no diplomatic relations with the Houthi-led Yemeni government. Diplomatic communications were coursed through Oman, which has
preting it as satire.
Accepting her award from a private committee this week, Takaichi said she only wanted to stress her enthusiasm.
“I have no intention of encouraging other people to overwork, or suggesting long working hours as a virtue,” Takaichi said. “I hope there is no misunderstanding.”
Takaichi, within weeks of taking office in late October, sparked a deepening spat with Beijing over her remark about possible Japanese military action in the event that China attacks Taiwan.
As the nation’s first female prime minister, Takaichi has captured public attention for her workwear, with women scrambling to copy her style, and the interest has not worn off.
But while her dress sense has won admiration from younger women who say they are “Sana-katsu,” or
been actively mediating ceasefire talks between the Houthis and the United States to halt attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait.
Oman also mediated the release of the 25-member crew of the MV Galaxy Leader, which included 17 Filipino seafarers, after they were held captive for more than 14 months.
“The Sultanate of Oman appreciates the cooperation shown by the concerned parties in completing these efforts,” the Omani Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
rooting for Sanae, it is unclear if her hardline conservative policies will win the same praise.
Takaichi is looking to regain right-wing supporters after the LDP’s big election losses under her moderate predecessor Shigeru Ishiba.
During her speech to party members on Oct. 4, she promised an all-out effort to rebuild the struggling party and regain public support, urging lawmakers to “work like a horse.” Then she added: “I will abandon the idea of a ‘work-life balance’—I will work, work, work, work and work.”
Repeating the word “work” in a low, determined voice left a strong impression at the time.
Hard work—and then a hot tub TAKAICHI’S apparent long working hours and lack of sleep have worried fellow lawmakers. She
Marcos’ message In a video message posted in his social media page on Thursday, President Marcos announced the upcoming repatriation of the sailors.
“They must really want to go home for Christmas. That’s why we sent them home and they’re coming here to the Philippines,” Marcos said in Filipino.
Marcos expressed his condolences to the family of Neil Roy Faner, the seafarer, who died when MV Eternity C was attacked.
He also recognized the sacrifices of sailors like Faner, who are forced to face
held a meeting with aides at 3 a.m. before the first day of parliament Nov. 7, though she hasn’t started that early since.
“I sleep about two hours now, four hours at the longest,” Takaichi, who also provides care for her husband who is recovering from a stroke, told MPs at a budget committee meeting last month. “It’s probably bad for my skin.”
She says she likes to soak in a hot tub in the morning and at night to relax. “That’s my blissful time,” she said.
Her style-icon status has been boosted by her black bag, dubbed a “Sanae Bag,” which is officially called the Grace Delight Tote. It is made by Hamano Inc., a 145-yearold bagmaker based in Tokyo.
Priced at 136,400 yen ($875), the simple leather bag is just large enough to fit A4-sized papers. It is selling the best since its debut 30
dangerous situations as part of their job.
The chief executive thanked the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Omani government for its assistance in the safe return of the nine abducted sailor, who arrived in Oman last Wednesday.
“And let’s not forget to thank the Omani government because they really continued to help us,” Marcos said.
years ago, according to the company.
Takaichi was carrying the bag as she walked into the prime minister’s office on Oct. 21, and the scene immediately caused a sensation on social media.
Hamano spokesperson Takanori Kobayashi said his company is delighted to see Japan’s first female prime minister carrying the bag.
Within days, inquiries and orders for the bag surged, and all eight colors have sold out. The bag, which is carefully made of highquality leather, cannot be massproduced, and those who ordered it now have to wait until August, Kobayashi says.
Another popular item is a sparkly light-pink pen Takaichi uses to take notes; it’s Mitsubishi Pencil Co.’s Jetstream 4&1.
The pen, the “Sanae Takaichi model,” is often out of stock at stores and internet shopping sites.
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Those who have found one often proudly post photos with a message: “Matching Sanae.” Style icon, but no feminist THE attention Takaichi is receiving is usually reserved for pop stars, athletes and influencers in Japan who fans have access to only through television or the internet.
The prime minister’s fans show their loyalty by buying the same bag and pen she uses, just as fans of star athletes like Shohei Ohtani buy replicas of his uniform to cheer on the Dodgers, experts say. Takaichi has won admiration as a new type of role model for women who have not usually rooted for prime ministers in the past, says Namiko Kubo-Kawai, a psychology professor at Nagoya Shukutoku University.
See “Takaichi,” A9
“Their leader is Sultan Haitham bin Tariq. They are true friends of the Filipino people since they did everything they could to save our sailors,” he added. With Samuel P. Medenilla which has strengthened partnerships across ASEAN since 2024.
Meanwhile, Christian Feichtinger, Executive Director of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), highlighted the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity, supporting both established and emerging space nations.
He noted that Southeast Asia has become one of the fastest-growing regions in the federation, with membership from Asia increasing more rapidly than in any other region.
“We are at the right place at the right time,” he said, pointing to the federation’s 604 member organizations across 82 countries, with about one-third now from Asia.
“Only then can the data have real impact,” he said.
Asean Space Agenda, Philippine-Led
MEANWHILE , Perez said the country’s space agency is actively working with the Italian Space Agency on a memorandum of understanding, which will formalize collaboration between the two agencies. The agreement will cover key areas such as space infrastructure, applications, capacity building, policy, and research and development.
She also said that next year, in line with the Philippines’ Asean chairmanship, the country plans to propose an Asean declaration on space cooperation. The declaration, she said, aims to bring together leaders from across Southeast Asia to strengthen regional collaboration and confidence-building measures.
However, Feichtinger noted that despite the growing availability of space data from numerous satellites, challenges remain in making this information truly useful for emerging countries and vulnerable regions. He emphasized that effective use requires free access to the data and proper training on how to apply it.
Bam Aquino: DPWH’s 60-classroom output for ‘25 ‘unacceptable’; LGUs and CSOs needed to close gap
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
CALLING the completion of only 60 classrooms by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for 2025 “completely unacceptable,” Senator Bam Aquino underscored the need for the passage of his Classroom-Building Acceleration Program (CAP) Act as a vital step toward addressing the country’s classroom backlog within six years.
During the period of interpellation on his Senate Bill No. 1482, Aquino said the DPWH’s mismanagement and prioritization of flood control projects in recent years led to low classroom completion numbers.
“Honestly, I think it was mismanaged in the past three years.
Napopondohan iyong mga flood control, iyong classroom na pinakabasic sa ating bansa, hindi napopondohan ,” he told Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson.
“To have accomplishments of 30, 40, or 60 a year is simply unacceptable, kaya dito po tayo pupunta,” he added. During its budget hearing in October, the DPWH revealed that it only completed 22 classrooms out
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In practice, Israel has largely taken enforcement into its own hands and has maintained that its ongoing strikes are in self-defense. Hezbollah has claimed one attack since the ceasefire.
Salam said that in many cases, Israel strikes without reporting violations via the monitoring committee.
“Clearly, we cannot be responsible for information that wasn’t shared with us,” he said. He added that Lebanon is willing to have US and French troops on the ground to investigate and verify reported violations.
Salam said that Israel should fully implement its part of the ceasefire by withdrawing from
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In Japan, many female role models typically were supported for their femininity, but Takaichi is unique as a high-powered politician. Her short haircut and no-frills workwear also stand out from conventional female models. She may not inspire many feminists, however. Takaichi is a staunch conservative who champions Japan’s traditional gender and paternalistic values. She has supported keeping the succession
White Tiger Party, and one of six parties contesting the polls nationwide—refused to comment to The Associated Pres about the incident because of concerns about the candidate’s safety.
The Shan and Nationalities
of its 1,700 target for 2025.
Aquino stressed that the CAP Act will help close the 165,443 classroom gap and address buffers for classrooms destroyed by natural calamities and annual increases in student population.
“Last time po tayo nag -privilege speech, we talked about finishing this problem in six years. We need to spend P90 billion every year for six years, with a price cap of P1.8 million per classroom,” he said, noting that this is significantly lower than the DPWH’s P3.5 million per classroom cost. “Roughly, that’s about 39,000 classrooms per year to finish it within six years,” he added. Shifting away from the tradi -
several points on the Lebanese side of the border that its forces are still occupying and should release Lebanese citizens captured during and after the war who are currently detained in Israel.
While he insisted that Hezbollah is required to disarm under the ceasefire and in accordance with the plan adopted by the government, the Lebanese state’s options appear to be limited if the group refuses to do so.
“We have lived civil war—civil wars—in Lebanon. I don’t think anyone is tempted to repeat that,” Salam said.
Meanwhile, the country is facing the end of UNIFIL’s peacekeeping mandate in southern Lebanon, which expires in just over a year, leaving greater uncertainty over the situation in the border area.
of Japan’s monarchy male only. She also opposes changing a 19thcentury law that would allow married couples the option of keeping separate surnames.
Sill, as the first female prime minister, “she fits perfectly as a stylish role model and has won admiration from many women who have been looking for one even though they probably have never thought of rooting for a prime minister,” Kubo-Kawai said.
“Female role models are becoming more diverse.”
AP video journalist Mayuko Ono contributed to this report.
Democratic Party, once a small ethnic party based in Shan and Kachin states in previous elections, is now competing nationwide with more than 580 candidates, making it the fifth-largest of the six parties competing nationwide. It’s not considered explicitly pro- or anti-military, but its participation in the election gives the impression it is allied with the army.
tional DPWH-only construction approach, the CAP Act authorizes local government units (LGUs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) with proven track records to construct classrooms using national government funds, in compliance with the Department of Education’s (DepEd) standards and guidelines.
“Previously, DPWH lang iyong gumagawa ng classroom, and that led to only 60 classrooms being finished for this year. So what are the different modalities? LGUs, CSOs, but LGUs will have a much bigger share,” Aquino explained, adding that public-private partnership (PPP) is also part of the modality.
Subukan natin iyan and then bantayan natin . Every year, pag nakikita natin what works, iyan ang pondohan natin ,” he stressed.
Aquino clarified that the DPWH will not be completely out of the picture, as the Department of Education (DepEd) will still allocate a portion of its budget to the agency for classroom construction.
“[DPWH] Secretary [Vince] Dizon has spoken to DepEd and said they want to, with a renewed effort and better systems, they want to engage again,” he pointed out.
“ Sabi ko naman , if they do want to engage, puwede , but we should put a price cap. Kung may price cap po tayo na P1.8 million, dapat lahat ng modality, ganun din po iyong presyo o lower,” he added.
Aquino earlier lauded the passage of the P1.38-trillion budget
for education, the highest in the country’s history, describing it as a true education budget that can help address the country’s massive classroom backlog and boost student nutrition.
However, he called on the public to be vigilant during the bicameral conference committee to ensure that the education budget remains intact and protected from any form of misuse or corruption.
Bantayan natin ang proseso. For the first time in history, iyong bicam ila-livestream din. Ang panawagan ko, bantayan natin ang budget ng edukasyon. Siguraduhin natin walang mababawasan, siguraduhin natin na walang mapopondohan na mga proyektong alanganin ,” Aquino said.
“ Bantayan natin hanggang dulo, hanggang maging batas ito, na hindi magagalaw ang perang iyan,” he added.
Ping: Is there risk of a ‘Napoles’ ops in classroom-building bill?
SENATE President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson pushed for safeguards to make sure that a bill seeking to accelerate the construction of classrooms and school buildings will not be marred by conflict of interest, or worse, create another “Napoles.” Lacson emphasized that while he fully supports the initiative to accelerate the construction of classrooms and school buildings, there are issues on the extent of participation of non-government organizations
(NGOs) and civil society groups (CSOs) that need to be resolved.
“If we involve NGOs and they will actively participate in bidding, monitoring, etc. [there is the] conflict of interest. Probably [we can include a] caveat, that, provided, they will not monitor themselves. At the proper time maybe we can use the proper language to clarify that particular issue. But I have no objection to allowing NGOs to be active partners in the school building program of the government,” he said in his interpellation Wednesday of Senate Bill 1482 authored by Sen. Aquino.
He noted that under the Government Procurement Act of 2024 (RA 12009), NGO participation is limited - where the procuring entity may enter into an agreement with an NGO “when an appropriation law or ordinance earmarks an amount to be specifically contracted out to NGOs.”
But he said RA 12009 also limits the role of CSOs or people’s organizations as observers throughout the procurement process to avoid conflict of interest.
“There goes the problem. Kasi kung i -involve natin ang CSOs sa construction ng building, one way or another, indirectly or directly, at na-interchange ang definition ng NGO and CSO, baka ma-Napoles tayo dito. How do we resolve this issue [There goes the problem. If we involve CSOs in the construction of buildings, one way or another, directly or indirectly, and
Signal No. 1 placed in several Visayas, Mindanao provinces as TD
THE state weather bureau has hoisted Signal No. 1 in several provinces in the Visayas and Mindanao as the low-pressure area east of Eastern Visayas developed into a tropical depression (TD).
Called Wilma, the storm is the 23rd severe weather disturbance to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility this year.
The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Signal No. 1 is up in Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Samar, Biliran, Leyte, and Southern Leyte in the Visayas and Surigao del Norte, including Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands and Dinagat Islands in Mindanao as of 11 a.m. Thursday.
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said on Thursday it has implemented preemptive safety protocols across its port network as TD Wilma brings rough seas and strong winds to the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
Several Port Management Offices (PMOs) under PPA
Nartatez said with a reward ,the number of potential informants would increase especially in areas where police presence is limited. It allows the public to report discreetly.
But Nartatez clarified that with or without a reward, the PNP’s intelligence build-up and
supervision have reported trip cancellations due to adverse weather conditions. Affected ports include PMO Western Leyte Biliran, PMO Eastern Leyte Samar, PMO Bohol, PMO Bicol, and PMO Surigao.
PPA General Manager Jay Santiago has directed all PMOs to enforce safety measures outlined in the agency’s Guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures for inclement weather.
The directive includes enhanced coordination with terminal operators and shipping lines for immediate operational assessments, as well as ensuring timely dissemination of service advisories regarding possible trip cancellations or delays to the public.
“We should not wait for accidents to happen during this type of weather. With strong winds and waves at the ports, the safety of passengers, port workers, and all stakeholders is PPA’s priority in implementing these safety measures for everyone,” Santiago said.
The authority is also
operations will continue.
He stressed that once a policy direction is issued, the PNP is prepared to immediately implement established reward procedures.
Malacañang earlier disclosed that it is open to offer a reward for information leading to the arrest of Co, who is facing corruption and malversation charges tied to floodcontrol project irregularities. He is believed to be hiding in Portugal Rex Anthony Naval
the definition of NGOs and CSOs are interchanged, we might have a Napoles situation. How do we resolve this issue]?” he said.
Lacson was referring to the pork barrel scam involving trader Janet Lim-Napoles, who in the 2010s used a network of fake NGOs as conduits to steal billions of pesos in public funds.
Also, Lacson sought clarification on the status of P54.883 billion remaining under the P91.279-billion Basic Education Facilities Fund (BEFF) from 2022 to 2025, as only P36 billion was spent for 7,172 completed and 4,962 ongoing classrooms during that period.
The BEFF covers, among others, the construction, repair and rehabilitation of school buildings; fixtures and utilities including water and electrical utilities.
In reply, Aquino noted that only the DPWH could build classrooms from 2022 to 2025 - which was why his bill sought to remove this responsibility from the DPWH and allow local government units and participating NGOs to take on the task. He added that while the fund for 2025 can be realigned, he can check the status of the fund from 2022 to 2024.
Aquino added that while the DPWH’s standard cost per classroom is P3.5 million, LGUs can construct classrooms at P1.5 million to 2 million each, while CSOs can do it for P800,000 to P1.3 million.
‘Wilma’ enters PAR
enforcing strict monitoring of vessel movements and cargo handling operations. It is also working to ensure adequate personnel deployment.
The tropical depression is expected to move westsouthwest until Saturday, before turning westward.
The PPA has pre-positioned ready-to-eat food packs at ports in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to address the needs of stranded passengers.
PAGASA has also issued a heavy rainfall weather outlook due to TD Wilma and the shear line.
Gale warning is in effect over the northern and western seaboards of Northern Luzon and the eastern seaboards of Luzon and Visayas.
Mariners of motorbancas and similarly sized vessels are advised to take precautionary measures while venturing out to sea and, if possible, avoid navigation under these conditions, the weather bureau said.
According to PAGASA,
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HOPE receives and deploys funds exclusively for DepEd-validated classroom projects, drawing on its track record of building over a hundred classrooms in underserved and disaster-affected areas nationwide.
Wilma was spotted 625 km East of Catarman, Northern Samar, and is moving westsouthwestward at 20 km/h. It is packing maximum sustained winds of 45 km/h near the center and gustiness of up to 55 km/h.
The storm is forecasted to move west-southwestward until Saturday before turning generally westward for the remainder of the forecast period.
PAGASA said Wilma may make its initial landfall in Eastern Visayas or the Dinagat Islands between tomorrow evening and Saturday morning. Afterwards, it will continue to traverse Visayas until next week, Monday, and will then emerge over the Sulu Sea and may pass over northern Palawan between Monday evening and Tuesday morning. PAGASA said Wilma will slightly intensify before landfall but will likely remain a tropical depression even after gaining strength while hovering over the Philippine Sea. Jonathan L. Mayuga and Lorenz S. Marasigan
DepEd said the program demonstrates how private sector support can accelerate learning recovery efforts by expanding safe, functional classrooms more quickly and more sustainably. With enrollment rising yearly and thousands of schools damaged by typhoons and earthquakes, partnerships help DepEd ensure that communities waiting the longest finally get the learning spaces and programs they deserve. Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
Sen. Bam Aquino pushes bold reforms to restore integrity of party-list system
IN a bold move to restore the integrity of the party-list system, Senator Bam Aquino has introduced Senate Bill No. 1559, the “Party List Reform Act.” This proposed measure aims to address rampant misuse of the party-list mechanism—a system originally envisioned to empower marginalized and underrepresented sectors of society. The alarming connections between many partylist organizations and political dynasties or large corporations, as highlighted by a recent study from election watchdog Kontra Daya, underscore the urgent need for reform. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Only a genuine party-list system reform can serve marginalized sectors, curb corruption—Sen. Bam,” December 2, 2025).
The findings from Kontra Daya’s 2025 report are troubling. Of the 156 accredited party-list groups, 86 were associated with powerful political families or corporate interests. This manipulation of the party-list system compromises its very essence: to give a voice to the voiceless. Senator Aquino aptly stated that the current reality is one where “the powerful exploit the system at the expense of those it was designed to uplift.” Such exploitation not only undermines public trust but also threatens democratic principles.
Senate Bill No. 1559 proposes several essential reforms. By mandating public evidentiary hearings conducted by the Commission on Elections, the bill seeks to ensure that party-list organizations genuinely represent the sectors they claim to serve. This scrutiny is crucial in restoring faith in a system that should empower ordinary Filipinos to have a meaningful say in Congress.
The bill also extends critical deadlines for registration and announces the release of the certified list of eligible organizations much earlier—all with the aim of fostering greater transparency and participation. The requirement for party-list groups to submit at least six nominees, and mandating that these nominees be approved by the organization’s leadership, further reinforces accountability within these groups.
One of the most vital aspects of Senator Aquino’s proposal is the disqualification of nominees connected to incumbents or with ties to government contracts. By removing those with potential conflicts of interest, the bill takes a significant step toward mitigating corruption—an all-too-common issue in Philippine politics. It is a move designed to ensure that the party-list system is utilized for its intended purposes: serving marginalized groups and facilitating authentic representation.
Senator Aquino’s reform proposals reflect a strong desire for true democratic representation. With support from various organizations, such as the John J. Carroll Institute on Church and Social Issues, the push to restore dignity to the party-list system indicates a deeper drive for change beyond political strategy; it embodies a demand for transformation that emphasizes the needs of the many rather than the interests of the privileged few.
In the words of Senator Aquino, “These reforms ensure that the party-list system truly serves the many, not the few, empowering ordinary Filipinos to have a genuine voice in Congress. This is a step toward a more inclusive, accountable, and meaningful democracy— the kind of government the Filipino people deserve.”
BusinessMirror
US seeks big investment from Taiwan while Lai hints at issues
By Daniel Flatley, Yian Lee * Chien-Hua Wan
COMMERCE Secretary Howard Lutnick said that the US is expecting a large investment pledge from Taiwan in trade talks, while the self-governing island’s president, Lai Chingte, listed areas that need improvement in order for projects to be completed.
“We’re in the midst of discussions,” Lutnick said Wednesday in a CNBC interview. “But the fact is, this administration’s goal is to bring semiconductor manufacturing to America.”
Lai said separately on Wednesday that Taiwan is supportive of President Donald Trump’s goal of reindustrializing America, including efforts to ramp up semiconductor production. Such a goal would require the US to reduce its reliance on Taiwan as a key source of chips. To bring those plans to fruition, Taiwanese firms need some assurances on moves to facilitate investment, Lai said.
Lutnick in September said he wants between 40 percent and 50 percent of American semiconductor consumption sourced to US production.
“We understand President Trump’s sense of urgency,” Lai said in an interview recorded for the DealBook Summit hosted by the New York Times. “Whether this target of 40 percent to 50 percent can be achieved within this time frame depends not only on Taiwan’s support, but also on the US government’s ability to facilitate land acquisition, water and electricity supply, workforce and talent development and investment incentives.”
The president added: “If the US
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government manages to do this well and effectively, then this goal becomes much more achievable.”
Taiwan’s benchmark Taiex stocks gauge was little changed on Thursday in Taipei, while the Taiwan dollar was a tad stronger at 31.33 versus the greenback.
Wee Khoon Chong, senior market strategist at BNY in Hong Kong, said Taiwan’s currency was holding steady because the government in Taipei hadn’t released any figures on possible investment.
“Until concrete numbers appear, the currency is likely to trade based on broader fundamentals and market flows,” he said. “However, the possibility of a substantial investment pledge to the US is now on traders’ radar as a medium-term source of downside risk for the Taiwan dollar.”
The won slid in October after South Korea’s pledge to invest $350 billion in the US helped pressure the currency, prompting officials in Seoul to pledge to take action to stabilize markets if needed.
Size of investment
AS for the magnitude of potential Taiwanese investment, Lutnick suggested he may be eyeing in excess of $300 billion.
“TSMC announced a $100 billion increase in their build in Arizona—
up to $165 billion. Micron invested more. Texas Instruments invested more. So we’re up to, like, $300 billion in investment in America,” Lutnick said. “I think when we do a deal with Taiwan, that’s even going to be bigger.”
The Commerce chief didn’t indicate whether Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.’s plans already are included in the administration’s hoped-for commitments from Taipei. TSMC, the world’s most advanced chipmaker, has vowed to keep expanding its US presence.
Lai also said that “we hope US tariff negotiations will not only help reduce the US trade deficit, but also deepen bilateral economic cooperation, further integrate Taiwan’s industries with the American economic structure and strengthen the Taiwan-US relationship.”
Taiwan said last month that it had proposed a model for investment in the US that would see its industries pursue global expansion independently, with the government providing financial guarantees. The US would offer administrative support and incentives to help Taiwanese companies secure land and regulatory assistance when establishing service parks in the US.
Lai added in his comments Wednesday that “our government supports TSMC and other Taiwanese semiconductor firms as they invest in the US, Japan, Europe or wherever they believe is needed. This contributes to global progress and prosperity.”
Publicity push
LAI’S video appearance at the Times
event marks his latest attempt to raise Taiwan’s profile through American media outlets, a strategy that counters China’s campaign to isolate the democracy on the world stage.
Last week, he announced in a Washington Post commentary that his government plans to spend an extra $40 billion on its defenses— a step that was intended to answer Trump’s campaign-trail criticism that Taiwan needed to do more to protect itself.
Earlier this year, Lai wrote in a Bloomberg News column that his government was committed to cutting trade imbalances with the US by purchasing more American energy, agriculture and other industrial goods.
Taiwan counts on the US for political and military backing to ward off China, which sees the democracy of 23 million people as lost territory that must be brought under its control, by force if necessary.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said earlier Wednesday that the US’s relationship with Taiwan “remains unchanged.” Asked if Washington would defend Taiwan against a Chinese incursion, he said, “I don’t answer hypotheticals.”
“The single point of failure for the global economy would be the disruption on chips from the island of Taiwan,” Bessent also said. Asked whether US moves to reshore chip production would leave Washington less likely to defend Taiwan, he said that “it’s a flawed question.” He added, “Because you’re de-risking, that doesn’t mean you’ve changed anything.” With assistance from Philip Glamann and Cindy Wang /Bloomberg
Restoring public trust: The call for comprehensive accountability among ‘cong-tractors’
By Francis Ramones Calso
RESTORING public trust in government is crucial, especially in light of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) probe into alleged ghost flood control projects. When citizens believe that their government is operating transparently and accountably, they are more likely to engage in civic activities, support public policies, and cooperate with governmental initiatives.
A l ack of trust, on the other hand, can lead to apathy, disengagement, and even civil unrest. In the context of infrastructure, especially projects related to flood control, citizens expect their government to effectively manage resources that safeguard their lives and properties. If fraudulent activities, like ghost projects, undermine these expectations, it erodes community resilience and trust in civic institutions. Moreover, the implications of the probe extend beyond immediate accountability. Restoring public
trust can foster a culture of active participation and vigilance among citizens, encouraging them to hold officials accountable. When people see genuine efforts to rectify past mistakes and prevent future ones, it cultivates a sense of ownership and responsibility in governance. This dynamic not only enhances the legitimacy of governmental actions but also facilitates better implementation of critical infrastructure projects, which ultimately serve to protect communities from disasters. Thus, addressing the fall-
out from the investigation, both through accountability measures and transparent communication, is essential for revitalizing confidence in public institutions and promoting effective governance.
The ICI deserves recognition for recommending charges against several lawmakers—commonly referred to as “cong-tractors”— who have blatantly violated public trust by exploiting their positions for personal gain through government contracts. However, this is merely a starting point. The public demands strict fairness, thoroughness, and unwavering impartiality in all ICI actions. The ICI must investigate further to ensure equal accountability among all “cong-tractors.” It should examine reports indicating that numerous congressmen, along with their families and associates, own contracting firms benefiting from
government projects. These legislators must be subjected to the same scrutiny and face similar charges. Corruption in infrastructure is not confined to a select few; it involves a systemic issue that has cost the Filipino people dearly, wasting billions of pesos in public funds and jeopardizing lives through substandard and phantom projects. This pervasive abuse must be dismantled, regardless of political affiliation.
The ICI must establish that no one is untouchable in this investigation. If evidence from corporate filings and contract data implicates current or former members of Congress—whether Senators or Representatives—who are similarly involved in government contracts, they too must be referred for plunder, graft, and violations of the Constitution and the Anti-Graft Law. See “Restoring,” A11
Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua
Brazil billionaire flew to Venezuela to urge Maduro to step down
By Patricia Garip & Eric Martin
BATISTA, co-owner of a sprawling business empire led by the meat-processing giant JBS NV, is quietly positioning himself as a connector trying to defuse political tensions between the Trump administration and Venezuela’s ruling regime.
Batista traveled to Caracas last week in a bid to persuade President Nicolás Maduro to heed Trump’s call to step down and allow for a peaceful transition of power, according to people with knowledge of the trip.
He met with Maduro on November 23, days after US President Donald Trump held a phone call with the country’s leader to urge him to leave Venezuela, according to the people, who asked not to be identified without permission to speak publicly.
Trump administration officials were aware of Batista’s plans to visit Caracas and reinforce the president’s message, but he went on his own initiative and wasn’t asked to go on behalf of the US, according to some of the people familiar with the trip.
“Joesley Batista is not a representative of any government,” said J&F SA, the Batista family’s holding company, in a statement. It offered no further comment.
The White House declined to comment. Neither Venezuela’s Information Ministry nor Vice President Delcy Rodriguez’s office responded to requests for comment about Batista’s visit.
The trip, which hasn’t been previously reported, marks the latest attempt to defuse tensions after Trump threatened land strikes in Venezuela following months of lethal attacks against alleged drug trafficking boats. The US says the Maduro regime is illegitimate, a criminal group that stole an election last year and facilitates the export of cocaine from Colombia, resulting in American deaths.
Batista’s effort to mediate with Maduro followed the biggest US military deployment in the waters around Latin America in decades, and more than 20 US attacks on alleged drug-running boats near the coasts of Venezuela and Colombia that killed more than 80 people. Trump on Wednesday reiterated that assaults on land will start very soon.
“We know every route, we know every house, we know where they manufacture,” Trump said at a White House event.
Batista’s efforts to add to various attempts at dialogue, including by US envoy Richard Grenell, Qatari diplomats, and financial and oil investors with interests in Venezuela. While the proposals vary regarding how long Maduro would remain in power and whether he would go into exile, they all aim to avoid an escalation of attacks that until now have been waged in international waters.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio in an interview broadcast this week cast doubt on the possibility that the US could negotiate a deal with Maduro to get him to stop drug traffickers, saying the Venezuelan leader has repeatedly broken commitments over the years. Rubio said it’s still worth trying to reach an agreement.
In many ways, Batista has the perfect profile to bridge the divide
Restoring.
. . continued from A10
This is a critical step towards dismantling the “cong-tractor” culture. The practice of lawmakers acting as government contractors is a clear and unconstitutional conflict of interest. The charges brought forth must unequivocally signal an end to this “contracting culture” within Congress.
The ICI should explore all legal avenues to ensure that every legislator who has compromised public trust for personal gain faces both
‘Hanggang Doon Kay Bathala’—Within the Bosom of the Almighty
Twith Maduro. He’s the rare figure with good relationships with both Trump and the Maduro regime.
JBS owns Colorado-based chicken producer Pilgrim’s Pride Corp., which gave $5 million to Trump’s inaugural committee, the largest single donation. JBS this year won Securities and Exchange Commission approval to list its shares in New York, overcoming fierce opposition from environmental groups and advocacy investors over concerns about past bribery scandals involving the Batista brothers and the company’s alleged role in cattle-driven deforestation of the Amazon.
Batista met with Trump earlier this year to advocate removal of tariffs on beef and a detente with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva after a clash over the prosecution of his predecessor and Trump ally Jair Bolsonaro. JBS is the world’s largest meat supplier and has more than 70,000 employees in the US and Canada.
The Batista family’s ties to Venezuela go back at least a decade. JBS and Maduro years ago negotiated a $2.1 billion deal to supply Venezuela with meat and chicken at a time when the nation was experiencing acute food shortages and hyperinflation. The contract was facilitated by Venezuelan socialist hardline politician and current Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello.
Maduro has ruled Venezuela through increasing repression since 2013, weathering oil sanctions that Trump imposed in January 2019, under his first term.
J&F owns oil production in Argentina. The firm had considered investing in a Venezuelan oil joint venture centered on assets that belonged to ConocoPhillips and were seized by the government of Maduro’s predecessor and patron, Hugo Chávez, in a wave of nationalizations in 2007.
Batista has become increasingly intertwined with power circles since helping transform the butcher shop founded by his father in the 1950s into the world’s largest meat producer—with crucial help from Brazil’s development bank during Lula’s previous administrations. The company became the largest donor to political campaigns in Brazil in 2014, when Lula’s successor, President Dilma Rousseff, was reelected.
Years later, Batista admitted to bribing hundreds of politicians— including a finance minister—in return for funding from state-run banks and pension funds. In 2017, he famously recorded an off-theagenda meeting with President Michel Temer as part of a plea-bargain deal with Brazilian authorities in exchange for immunity. The scandal rocked the country and triggered one of the deepest stock-market routs in Brazil’s modern history—a day that was subsequently branded “Joesley Day.” With assistance from Gerson Freitas Jr./Bloomberg
criminal and administrative consequences. Transparency throughout the investigation is essential. Filipino taxpayers deserve to see justice served—not just in theory, but in practice, applying equally to all. The ICI must conduct a thorough, impartial investigation and file charges against all “cong-tractors” without bias. Only then can it begin to restore public confidence in the commission and the nation’s justice system. Should the ICI choose to target only a few “cong-tractors” while overlooking many others, it would be failing the Filipino people and risk losing their trust.
ANNOTATIONS
HERE is a song that has come to me incarnated through crooning—altogether sensual and yet leaving us with a tender spirituality rare or perhaps natural in any good artist at all like Pilita Corrales.
Hanggang doon kay Bathala, yaring sala ay pagsisisihan ko, the song opens with this entreaty. There is no soft opening, but an immediacy. The mortal man bears directly his fault and he is saying he is most grievous about it. Then comes the next line—Hanggang Siya ay maawa sa ligalig na aking natamo— Until He takes mercy upon the disturbance that befell upon him. The man—or woman—is bothered by what life has wrought upon him or her. Indeed, what being has control over fate? Or destiny? Amazing how elliptical the thoughts are in these lyrics, how streamed the mind twisted by the mysteries of the universe, of an existence greater than one’s living. We are what we are and yet we are not. What excuses can we bring about to surround ourselves with at least the beauty of this earth, that the allure of the material at least favors us with our own materiality?
But then the shift comes—
Pagdurusahan kong lahat ang kamalian kong ito—We embrace the breach; we are almost kissing our own sin. It is because of this that a song has seduced me into thinking more about its theology than its melody. Here is
music that is daring, hiding in its deceptively maudlin wording caresses rather than real caring, sentiments so sentimental they betray human agency, existential crisis that negates meaning and yet makes sense. Perhaps, this is what life is all about in all its contradictions. Why belabor clearcut understanding when there was no guideline from obscured spaces.
Still we are complex. Convoluted even. The song takes us back to where it all began—the Theodicy. How did it all begin… The origin of struggles, and pains, and suffering. Is God part of all the sorrow? Does Power bring about evanescence? Is Might a presupposition of ephemerality?
ritual, the Perdon, a folk procession still practiced in many rural sites of the archipelago. As the term implies, this procession seeks pardon. People hold the ‘Perdon ’ whenever there is a series of plagues or deaths in the villages. The people believe the Lord, the maker of the Universe, has sent the plague or disease; the only way to stop the calamities around, is to pray, to seek help from the Almighty, to ask for “Perdon” or “forgiveness.”
The song, more than asking for forgiveness, is really a brave, nearly confrontational approach to the Lord, because in the song certain lines state how the people are now entreating the Almighty. “You have
Sa agos ng aking luha’y magsisisi sa Kanyang paanan Magmamakaawa ako sa Diyos na Maykapal
Like the penitential Perdon, the song for Bathala, has two lines repeated, as if summoning appeal and making sure the rites are efficacious with— Kung sakali mang ako ay ’di na Niya pakikinggan And if He will not to me listen Nakahanda nang ako’y Kanyang parusahan Then i am ready for any punishment.
died on the Cross, well, i can also shed my blood for you.” We are now equal; therefore, stop the disease and the plagues.
Hanggang doon kay Bathala, dadalhin ko ang krus kong pinapasan. Thus, we claim “how till we face the Almighty do we carry the Cross.”
Let me take you now to an older
The song ‘Hanggang Doon kay Bathala’ transports us once more through this consciousness. A song becomes the ritual; the ceremony has become dolorous and yet contemporary; the love song masks the anguish.
Think of a God who will not listen to one who is seeking forgiveness. He will be alone, desolate, with no one to rule over. He/She/it is there looming, more magnificent than magnificence, the Shining Sun brighter than the brightest Star. Think of us, Dead, Floating above and below, and gone. Imagine us, mortal beings, shaken, lost in eternity, gazing for the first time and even unknowing, unsure, whether we are entering into the portals of the Good or of the Evil, our hearts and minds listening to the beating of an Eternal heart that is there and not there. There will only be one certainty there before—not a God, not a Force, but a thundering loneliness greater than all the stars in heaven can summon and fix unmoving.
E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com
Starmer pushes ahead with China reset despite spying fears
By Ellen Milligan
THE UK government appears poised to approve China’s plan for a massive new embassy in London, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer looks to put spying fears aside and revive his plans for a diplomatic reset with Beijing.
Key British ministers in recent days signaled satisfaction with Chinese efforts to resolve security concerns related to Beijing’s proposal to establish Europe’s largest diplomatic compound on the former site of the Royal Mint in London. That sets the stage for the government to approve the controversial project by Jan. 20, and for Starmer to travel to the world’s second-largest economy days later.
The impasse over the embassy had emerged as the biggest stumbling block to improving ties between two countries, including Starmer’s plan to become the first British prime minister to visit China in eight years. He’s tentatively scheduled a trip to Beijing and Shanghai from January 29-31, people familiar with the matter confirmed on Wednesday.
The Labour government is under pressure to show some results from its efforts to burnish relations with Beijing after a series of setbacks, including allegations of Chinese spying on Parliament. While successive British administrations have struggled to settle on a policy toward China, the country’s Western allies have managed to stabilize their own ties with diplomatic visits, despite disputes over trade, human rights and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
France’s Emmanuel Macron is currently in China. US President Donald Trump met his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in South Korea last month and is planning another summit in April. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is also expected to visit China in the new year.
Starmer indicated a desire not to be left on the sidelines in an annual foreign policy speech on Monday in the City of London, about a mile from the proposed embassy site. He said Britain needed a policy that recognized the reality the Asian nation of 1.4 billion people was both a “de-
fining force in technology, trade and global governance” and “poses real national security threats” to the UK.
“Whilst our allies have developed a more sophisticated approach, the UK has become an outlier,” Starmer said, criticizing the UK’s former Conservative government. “The absence of engagement is just staggering— a dereliction of duty—because it means that, unlike our allies we have not been standing up for our interests.”
Starmer’s national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, met China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, in Beijing on Friday, in a sign that the two sides are preparing for future exchanges. That comes after Business Secretary Peter Kyle visited the country in September, ostensibly to push for greater market access for certain food products and sporting events.
The Treasury, lured by China’s economic heft, has long been eager for closer trade ties in an attempt to bolster the UK’s lackluster economy.
The Foreign Office has also been keen to upgrade Britain’s own aging embassy in Beijing, with Bloomberg reporting in October that the project had become snarled in the standoff over China’s London plan.
China on Wednesday reaffirmed calls for the embassy to be approved, saying it “strongly” deplored the repeated delays. The approval must come quickly “to avoid further undermining the mutual trust and cooperation,” an embassy spokesman said.
Starmer’s challenge is that he needs to balance his desire for greater Chinese trade and investment against deep concerns in Parliament over Chinese spying, human rights violations and support for Russia’s war effort. Ties between the two countries have been rocky since former Prime Minister David Cameron’s “golden age” diplomatic
Starmer’s challenge is that he needs to balance his desire for greater Chinese trade and investment against deep concerns in Parliament over Chinese spying, human rights violations and support for Russia’s war effort. Ties between the two countries have been rocky since former Prime Minister David Cameron’s “golden age” diplomatic push a decade ago, a period marked by Beijing’s crackdown on the pro-democracy opposition in the former British colony of Hong Kong.
push a decade ago, a period marked by Beijing’s crackdown on the prodemocracy opposition in the former British colony of Hong Kong.
Domestic opposition to the embassy project flared anew in October, after prosecutors dropped an espionage case against former Parliamentary aides, claiming Starmer’s government hadn’t provided sufficient evidence that China posed a national security threat.
Besides the symbolism of allowing China to establish such a highprofile presence next to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, the embassy site sits near critical communications lines connecting some of the nation’s biggest financial hubs. Moreover, Chinese authorities have resisted British demands to detail plans of portions of the facility. The risk of strengthening economic ties is that China’s strategy has long been intended to make other countries dependent on it, and to increase geopolitical leverage by primarily investing in critical infrastructure abroad, said Luke de Pulford, executive director of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China. In the past two weeks, the UK conceded that it’s over-reliant on China for the critical minerals it needs for products such as electric vehicles and wind turbines.
“The prime minister seems to be encouraging us to make the same mistakes again,” said De Pulford, a long-
standing critic of the embassy project. “He’s hoping that China is going to help dig us out of an economic hole.” A series of developments in recent days have helped lower barriers to China’s embassy project, which Housing Secretary Steve Reed is due to rule on by January 20. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper wrote in a letter to the UK’s Planning Inspectorate dated Nov. 27 saying that they had “reached an arrangement” with the Chinese government, resolving their remaining concerns about the proposal. That includes China consolidating seven diplomatic facilities across London into the new site, excluding the ambassador’s residence. The Chinese government also agreed to forgo a claim to diplomatic protections over an area of public access to the ruins of a Cistercian abbey. “Clearly, if you’ve got seven different sites consolidated into one, that brings security benefits,” the prime minister’s official spokesman, Tom Wells, told reporters on Wednesday. The statements from Mahmood and Cooper, who oversee the security agencies MI5 and MI6, respectively signal approval from top counterespionage officials. Former head of MI6 Richard Moore told Bloomberg in an interview last month that there ought to be “a way through” for a new China embassy.
At the same time, the government has sought to reassure Parliament that it takes the threat of Chinese spying seriously. In October, MI5 warned British lawmakers of new Chinese-backed efforts to target them online, while the government announced hundreds of millions of pounds of funding for security programs to counter espionage by agents linked to Beijing.
For Starmer, it remains to be seen if he can convince voters that the promise of Chinese trade is worth the risk. The prime minister said earlier this week that he rejects the “binary choice” of recent Conservative governments that proclaimed a golden age that “then flipped to the ice age.” With assistance from Philip Glamann/Bloomberg
Tito Genova Valiente
Friday, December 5, 2025
D.A. TRIMS ANEW 2025 PALAY OUTPUT FORECAST TO 19MMT
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
THE Department of Ag-
riculture (DA) further lowered its projection for palay output this year to below 20 million metric tons (MMT), dimming hopes that the country would hit another record harvest. In a statement, the DA said it now projects the palay harvest for 2025 to stand between 19.61 MMT and 19.89 MMT.
The agency added that the revised forecast was below its initial target of 20.46 MMT as fourth quarter projections were adjusted downward due to recent typhoons that ravaged plantations.
If realized, this would be lower than the all-time-high palay output in 2023 at 20.06 MMT, but it would surpass the 19.09MMT recorded paddy rice harvest in 2024.
Despite the lower paddy rice outlook, the DA said local production remained “robust” following several typhoons that entered the country in the last quarter.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. credited this “robust” production to “farmer resilience, better disaster preparedness, and fortuitous storm
timing” that spared key ricegrowing areas during vulnerable growth stages.
Lower imports
MEANWHILE , Tiu Laurel addressed mounting speculation among traditional rice-exporting nations anticipating the Philippines’ re-entry into the global market.
He noted that some suppliers appear to be positioning for higher quotations on the assumption that the Philippines will resume large-volume purchases early next year.
This, as the Philippines is set to lift the four-month rice import ban in early January, which will allow the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) to resume processing applications.
Tiu Laurel stressed that the government will not allow foreign suppliers to take advantage of the country’s food security mechanisms.
He said the Philippines is encouraging private importers to diversify their sourcing and pursue partners that prioritize stable pricing and long-term cooperation.
“While we value the partnerships we have in our traditional suppliers, food security is important, and the diversification
BusinessMirror
After 5 months, 9 Filipino seafarers freed by Houthis
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
NINE
Filipino crew members of the MV Eternity C, which was attacked and sunk by Yemen’s Houthi forces in the Red Sea, have been released after five months in captivity, the Omani Foreign Ministry announced Wednesday.
One Filipino seafarer who perished in the attack will likewise be repatriated, his remains returning home together with the nine survivors.
Alongside the nine Filipinos, two Indian crew members were also freed. They were transported from Sana’a to Muscat aboard a Royal Air Force of Oman aircraft.
Oman mediated directly with the Houthis, who now control a significant portion of Yemen’s government and military.
DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac, who flew from Hong Kong to Muscat, personally welcomed the seafarers upon arrival in the Royal Airport in Muscat. They were also greeted and hosted at the VIP Re -
ception by officials from the Omani Foreign Ministry and Air Force, along with Philippine Ambassador to Muscat Raul Hernandez and Indian Ambassador.
In his X post, Cacdac said he conveyed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s gratitude to Oman’s Sultan and Prime Minister Haitham bin Tariq for facilitating their release.
The Omani Foreign Ministry noted that one of the freed Filipinos, Julimo Taberos, expressed his “deep gratitude” to Sultan Haitham and the Omani government, saying he was eager to return home to his family.
By Rizal Raoul Reyes
THE country’s property sector will face an acid test as it faces several uncertainties in 2026
“2026 will test the resilience of Philippine real estate players,” said Joey Roi Bondoc, Director and Head of Research at Colliers. “Future-proofing strategies—from embracing flexible workspaces and suburban expansion to leveraging industrial growth and retail innovation—will be critical for developers aiming to thrive in this cyclical market.”
Bondoc described the property sector as facing headwinds and tailwinds—a normal occurrence for a cyclical property sector. “This outlook underscores the urgent need for property developers to develop resilience and future-proof their businesses to remain relevant in a constantly evolving market, “ he said. Bondoc said the Philippine property market is entering a critical phase where adaptability and innovation will define success. “Developers must embrace diversification, invest in
emerging growth corridors, and leverage technology-driven solutions to stay competitive amid shifting demand patterns,” Bondoc pointed out.
Office sector BONDOC said the Manila office market is showing signs of recovery, with net take-up expected to improve in 2026, driven by IT-BPM firms and traditional corporate occupiers. He said the firm projects 350,000 sqm of new office space annually from 2026 to 2028—significantly lower than prepandemic levels, ensuring manageable supply. Moreover, prime CBDs such as the Makati CBD and Bonifacio Global City are poised for rental recovery, while flexible workspaces expand aggressively in Cebu, Pampanga, and Iloilo. He stressed developers must put importance on decentralization to integrate business continuity solutions into their offerings.
Residential sector BONDOC said Metro Manila condominium
market remains a buyer’s market, with over 30,000 unsold ready-for-occupancy units as of Q3 2025. He noted developers are responding with attractive promos, extended payment terms, and rent-to-own schemes to stimulate demand, particularly in the mid-income segment. Fringe locations such as the C5 Corridor and Katipunan area continue to attract buyers, with take-up rates reaching up to 100 percent for select projects. “Colliers advises developers to innovate pricing strategies and enhance value propositions to capture cautious end-users amid elevated mortgage rates, “ he said.
Industrial sector BONDOC said Central Luzon dominates the industrial real estate with 870 hectares of industrial land to be delivered from 2026 to 2028—quadruple Southern Luzon’s pipeline. The recently enacted 99-year land lease law positions the Philippines as a competitive manufacturing hub, attracting foreign investors and high-value locators in sectors such as semiconductors, automotive, and renewable
energy. He said developers with expansive industrial footprints should capitalize on this momentum by building Peza-accredited facilities and modern warehouses in strategic locations like Clark and Tarlac.
Hotel sector
DESPITE the slowdown in foreign arrivals, Bondoc said the Philippine hotel market is buoyed by domestic tourism and the resurgence of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events. “Colliers expects over 3,000 new hotel rooms to be completed in 2026, the highest annual addition since 2018, with Makati and the Bay Area leading supply growth. Operators must diversify source markets and enhance event facilities to offset weak arrivals from key foreign markets such as South Korea and China,” Bondoc explained.
Retail sector
THE retail property trends remain strong, with Metro Manila retail vacancy forecasted
The vessel, en route to Saudi Arabia from Somalia after delivering aid, was struck by sea drones and rocket-propelled grenades. It was abandoned and later sank. Eight Filipino sailors and a Greek security guard were rescued, while three crew members died and others were initially reported missing.
Three weeks after the attack, the Houthis released a video showing nine Filipinos and two other foreign crew members being pulled from the sea at night. The group also
The nine Filipinos were part of the 25-member crew and security team of the Liberia-fl agged bulk carrier MV Eternity C, which the Houthis attacked on July 7, 2025.
claimed to have recovered a body, believed to be a Filipino. In a statement Tuesday night, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed that Omani authorities had informed them of the seafarers’ transfer from Sana’a to Muscat. The DFA emphasized that the release was the result of Oman’s efforts in cooperation with the Philippine government.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro raised the plight of the Filipino seafarers with her Omani counterpart, Foreign Minister Sayed
Growing economies, climate threats drive SEA space data boom
By John Eiron R. Francisco
SOUTHEAST Asia is seeing soaring demand for space data as fast-growing economies in the region confront rising climate and disaster risks, with experts stressing the need for collaboration across borders.
“The demand for space data is high in this region, particularly because we are vulnerable,” Gay Jane Perez, Officer-in-Charge of the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), said during a press conference Thursday at the 7th International Space Forum at Ministerial Level – Southeast Asian Chapter in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
Perez noted that the region is confronting formidable challenges.
Recent floods and disasters have highlighted the urgent need for resilient, adaptive, and responsive systems.
“Lives have been lost, communities displaced, families disrupted, infrastructure damaged,” she added. “The scale of human and economic impact is a solemn reminder that vulnerability does not respect borders, that collective action is essential.”
She emphasized that satellite data, which supports early warning systems and disaster mapping, is becoming indispensable for climate
resilience and sustainable development.
“This forum presents a unique opportunity for ministers, policymakers, members of the academy, and stakeholders to imagine and build a regional space ecosystem where space-based insights inform our planning, protect communities, safeguard livelihoods, and preserve our shared environment,” Perez said.
Dr. Maria Chiara Noto, ViceDirector for International Affairs at the Italian Space Agency (ASI), echoed these views, noting that while Asia offers abundant opportunities, the region also faces significant challenges, including evolving government regulations and severe natural disasters. Yet, she said, “space innovation can become a strategic asset, and cooperation provides the foundation to advance these efforts.” Noto added that in recent years, the Italian Space Agency has devoted significant attention to Asian countries, fostering both bilateral and regional cooperation.
She cited collaborations with Vietnam’s National Space Center, Malaysia’s Space Agency, and the Asean-Italy Cooperation Initiative on Space and Master Technologies,
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
ABS-CBN commits to settle debts under deal with TV5
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
ABS-CBN Corp. on Thursday said it received a notice of termination for its content supply agreement with TV5 Inc., marking a potential end to a partnership that was meant to anchor the network’s recovery following its franchise loss.
The Lopez-led multimedia conglomerate revealed it has been given a 30-day period to address disputed payment obligations to TV5. ABS-CBN expressed regret over the development, calling the timing “critical” as it continues rebuilding from the loss of its broadcast franchise.
“We acknowledge our obligations to TV5 and are doing everything we can to address these payments,” the statement read.
“We remain open to fair and reasonable solutions that recognize the extraordinary circumstances our company has faced.”
The network disputed reports
regarding the amounts and manner of claims, while denying any willful delay in payments.
Despite the setback, ABS-CBN maintained that its transformation into a “storytelling company” has shown “steady performance improvement,” though it acknowledged still operating at a loss while working toward full recovery.
In fact, the conglomerate saw its consolidated net loss reaching P2.24 billion in January to September, an improvement of 13 percent compared to the prior year’s net loss of P2.59 billion. Consolidated revenues stood at
P11.75 billion for the nine months ended September 30, a 3-percent decline from P12.12 billion in the same period last year due to a decline in its broadband business.
The company’s Content Production and Distribution segment generated P9.13 billion in revenues, up 14 percent from P8 billion in 2024.
ABS-CBN has been operating at a loss since it lost its franchise during the time of former President Rodrigo Duterte. It was denied by the House of Representatives in July 2020, two months after the National Telecommunications Commission ordered the network to cease free-to-air broadcasts.
“While we are still short of realizing a full turnaround, our trajectory is clear and our dedication unwavering,” ABS-CBN said.
The content partnership, formalized in 2023 through a 5-year agreement, was designed to deliver premier entertainment to Filipino audiences.
Under the deal, ABS-CBN supplied TV5 with top-rated programs including “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,” “The Iron Heart,” “Dirty Linen,” and weekend shows “Everybody Sing” and “ASAP Natin ‘To.”
CREC takes out loan for solar farm
CBy Lenie Lectura @llectura
ITICORE Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC) is borrowing P3.975 billion from the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) to partly finance its P5.7-billion solar power project in Pangasinan.
CREC said Thursday it signed a finance loan facility agreement with the bank to power the completion of the 113-megawatt peak (MWp) Citicore Solar Pangasinan (CS Pangasinan) 2 project.
The project, which earlier received a Certificate of Energy Project of National Significance (CEPNS) from the Department of Energy (DOE), will be finished before yearend.
CS Pangasinan 2 is one of three CREC projects in the province together with CS Pangasinan in Sta. Barbara which is also under construction, and Citicore Wind Pangasinan in early development. All three projects are part of the capacities won by CREC during the Green Energy Auction Program 2 (GEA-2) in 2023, securing
a 20-year offtake contract with the DOE.
“The success of our goals goes hand-in-hand with the trust and confidence of those who choose to partner with us. With BPI, the oldest and one of the largest financial institutions in the Philippines, partnering with us through this project finance agreement, we strengthen our ability to deliver on our commitments and continue championing renewable energy in the country,” said Oliver Tan, CREC president and CEO. Tan, along with CREC Chairman Edgar Saavedra, CREC Chief Financial Officer Lucia Roderos, CREC Deputy Chief Financial Officer Michelle Magdato signed the deal with BPI Head of Institutional Banking Luis Cruz, BPI Head of Commercial Banking Noelito Marcos, BPI Capital Head of Debt Products Jennifer V. Ho, and BPI Wealth Senior Vice President Yvette Mari V. De Peralta last December 3.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to financing projects that drive sustainable progress. By
supporting CREC, we are enabling investments that not only deliver clean energy solutions but also create lasting positive impact for the communities,” said Cruz.
BPI Capital Corp. is the sole lead arranger of the transaction.
“Our active participation as the exclusive arranger of the loan is an important reflection of BPI Capital’s trust in CREC’s vision. Accelerating projects of this magnitude is a key strategic contribution in achieving the renewable energy target in the Philippine Energy Plan,” said Lester Ong, BPI Capital president.
CREC, directly and through its subsidiaries and joint venture, manages a diversified portfolio of renewable energy generation projects, engages in power project development operations, and participates in retail electricity supply. CREC is also the sponsor of the Philippines’s first renewable energy REIT, Citicore Energy REIT Corp. (CREIT).
Once finished, CS Pangasinan 2 will bring CREC closer to its first of five gigawatts in five years goal. With reports from VG Cabuag
‘IT-BPM still top driver of office market’
THE country’s Information Technology and Business Process Management (ITBPM) sector is still the primary and most reliable demand driver in the office sector.
Morgan McGilvray, Santos Knight Frank (SKF) Senior Director for Occupier Strategy and Solutions, told reporters in a press briefing on Wednesday the office market in the Philippines is not merely recovering but entering a renewed cycle of expansion, strongly underpinned by the strategic needs of the IT-BPM sector. Despite earlier industry-wide questions about the long-term viability of the physical office space, McGilvray said the trend is “shifting decisively” back to the workplace. As large multinational corporations and even Silicon Valley-
By VG Cabuag @villygc
The partnership also included co-production deals for afternoon soap operas, part of TV5’s reinforced programming blocks.
At the 2023 contract signing, ABS-CBN Chairman Mark Lopez described the partnership as one the network was “very happy with,” while TV5 President and CEO Guido Zaballero emphasized their commitment to deliver content Filipino viewers enjoy, saying the partnership reflected the belief that they could “grow together.”
“Should this partnership be terminated, we will find ways to reach you, our audiences. Just as we overcame the initial difficulties after losing our franchise, we will not abandon our Kapamilya and will find ways to continue serving you,” ABS-CBN’s recent statement read.
It has sought “additional time to resolve this matter and are working urgently within the 30day period we have been given.”
“While this timeline is challenging given our current circumstances, we are committed to finding a way to fulfill our obligations—not only to TV5 but to all our partners and stakeholders,” the company said.
THE board of EEI Corp. has approved the consolidation of two of its wholly owned units EEI Ltd. and EEI Realty Corp.
The said firms will be placed under EEI Ventures Inc. (EVI), the company’s designated investment and holding company for its real estate and emerging businesses.
Under the agreement, a share swap will be conducted in which EVI will issue 300 million shares to EEI in exchange for 100 percent of the two units, or 3.36 million in EEI Realty and 1.68 million shares in EEI Ltd.
EEI Realty is a wholly owned subsidiary of EEI engaged in real estate business, while EEI Ltd. was registered under the laws of the British Virgin Islands, primarily engaged to purchase undertake the whole or any part of the business, goodwill, assets and liabilities of any person, firm or company.
“The move is intended to sharpen strategic focus, improve governance, and enhance longterm value creation,” EEI said.
“By placing these subsidiaries under EVI, the Group can clearly separate its core construction operations from new growth plat -
forms. This structure provides better alignment of strategy and capital allocation, while allowing real estate and other ventures to develop at a pace and scale suited to their markets.”
The consolidation also supports more efficient capital raising, as investors are increasingly drawn to pure-play business units.
Housing non-construction assets under EEI Ventures makes it easier to attract strategic partners or explore future financing options without affecting the parent company’s balance sheet, the company said.
EEI said the structure “provides strategic flexibility for the future”—whether through partnerships, joint ventures or an eventual listing—while keeping the group’s construction operations focused and protected.
Last August, the company announced that it will venture into real estate development as it will capitalize on its land bank of 139 hectares in Metro Manila, Cavite and Central Luzon.
This move marks a significant milestone in the company, formerly controlled by the Yuchengco Group, as it wants to become a fully integrated property and infrastructure developer from the current pure-play construction company.
influenced companies recognize the limitations of purely remote setups—particularly concerning team cohesion, he said socialization, mentorship, and the ability to negotiate and rationalize in realtime—the demand for centralized office space is climbing.
In the Philippines, McGilvray said this movement is amplified by the nation’s inherently social culture, where face-to-face interaction is highly valued.
McGilvray added the office becomes a crucial hub for developing the “crucial and irreplaceable” skills of the future, such as empathy, negotiation, and complex problemsolving, which are less susceptible to automation by AI.
While the Philippine IT-BPM sector has traditionally been heavily concentrated in Metro Manila
and driven by US-based companies, he noted that its growth trajectory is becoming more diverse.
“Strong growth is anticipated in provincial areas, as developers shift from speculative builds to more secure, pre-committed build-to-suit (BTS) arrangements. This is evident in locations like Cebu, where large tenants collaborate with developers to customize office buildings to precise operational and security specifications. This strategy secures long-term occupancy and encourages the development of high-quality, modern facilities outside of the capital.”
According to SKF research, year-to-date absorption reached 461,245 square meters, largely driven by expansions from the ITBPM industry. Rizal Raoul Reyes
Views on Sukuk issuance regulation sought by SEC
By VG Cabuag @villygc
THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) an -
nounced recently it is seeking comments from the public on its draft regulation for sukuk issuances in the Philippines. According to the regulator, the call for comments would support regulations that ensure Shari’ah compliance and investor protection.
The draft introduces enhanced disclosure standards, clearer Shari’ah governance mechanisms and strengthened investor safeguards aligned with international sukuk practices.
Sukuk refers to certificates of equal value representing undivided investment, interest in or rights to the underlying assets, usufructs and services or projects undertaken in accordance with Shari’ah principles.
The draft guidelines will apply to all sukuk issuances that are not exempted the Securities Regulation Code. Under the draft guidelines, sukuk intended for public offering should be registered with the SEC, and may be listed, traded and settled in accordance with the rules of an SECregistered exchange, fixed-income market, or other registered organized market.
Special purpose entities, incorporated and registered with the SEC, may be created specifically for sukuk issuances. They should be incorporated separately from the originator, and be established primarily for sukuk issuance and holding the assets for sukuk holders. They should also adhere to international standards for sukuk issuance, including Shari’ah principles.
Eligible issuers of sukuk will also include publicly listed companies and non-listed stock corporations; the national government, its agencies or instrumentalities; local government units; government-owned and -controlled corporations; banks supervised by the Bangko Sentral ng
Pilipinas, including Islamic banks; and SPEs formed by such entities.
Banking&Finance Investment analysts upbeat on PHL entry in bond index
These measures aim to ensure transparent sukuk structures, safeguard investor interests and align local issuances with global Islamic finance standards, the agency said. The issuance of sukuk may be made using Shari’ah-compliant structures. The latter includes the following: Sukuk Ijarah, or leasebased sukuk wherein assets are sold and leased back to the issuer; Sukuk Murabahah, or cost-plus margin financing sukuk for fixed-price sales transactions; and, Sukuk Istisna, or financing sukuk to raise funds for manufacturing or construction projects.
The following structures will also be allowed: Sukuk Wakalah bil Istithmar, or agency-based sukuk wherein a wakeel (investment agency) is appointed to invest on behalf of holders in specified assets; Sukuk Mudarabah, or profit-sharing sukuk, where one party provides funds and the others expertise; and, Sukuk Musharakah, or joint venture sukuk representing co-ownership of assets or projects
Other sukuk structures may also be allowed, upon approval by the SEC in accordance with Shari’ah principles. Issuers must ensure that all contracts, asset arrangements, and transaction flows are supported by clear documentation demonstrating Shari’ah compliance.
Issuers will either establish its Shari’ah Committee or appoint a Shari’ah advisor to certify that the sukuk structure and underlying assets comply with Shari’ah principles.
The Shari’ah Committee or advisor will provide guidance and oversight to ensure that all aspects of the sukuk transaction, from issuance to maturity, adhere to Shari’ah principles and will oversee the monitoring and audit of the Shari’ah compliance.
This oversight mechanism is intended to uphold market integrity and build investor confidence in Islamic capital market instruments, according to the SEC.
Govt housing market financer migrates to full digitalization
THE National Home Mortgage Finance Corp. (NHMFC) announced its migration to full digitalization through the successful launch of its Project Refresh, Lift and Transition, or “Project RLT.” A statement issued by the NHMFC last Wednesday explained that the project is one of government-owned entity’s key IT transformation initiatives, “focused on migrating and upgrading the corporation’s account management database along with all related application systems, which include the full setup of cloud subscriptions, databases, and application services.”
TBy Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
HE Philippine bond market is expected to gain traction in 2026, as a combination of further monetary easing, improving external balances and the country’s anticipated inclusion in a major global bond index drives demand for longerdated government securities.
“The two further rate cuts in our baseline–with a distinct possibility of more–should see Philippines duration perform well in H1 [first half of] 2026,” analysts Vaninder Singh and Joey Chung of Deutsche Bank said in their brief titled “Asia Strategy Outlook 2026.”
Yields on the five-year bonds are expected to fall to around 5 percent, while the yield curve between fiveand ten-year bonds may steepen once the easing cycle concludes or political noise rises, according to the analysts.
The negative effect of the yield curve steepening will be offset by the additional demand in government securities, analysts said, as the Philippines is poised to be included in JP Morgan’s Government Bond IndexEmerging Markets (GBI-EM) in March.
The inclusion will attract more foreign investors into Philippine bonds, with actual inflows likely starting in June, lasting for five months or until October.
Analysts noted that with crosscurrency swap spreads not as at-
tractive and the Republic of the Philippines Global Bonds being EuroClear-able, less of the flow will be redirected to euro medium-term note markets compared with other instances of inclusion.
The gross supply of government bonds is also seen to fall 2.7 percent in 2026, though net supply may rise 11 percent based on the preliminary 2026 budget, analysts added.
“Demand dynamics are likely to remain solid regardless, with another strong year for offshore buying,” they said. If the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) will also issue jumbo RPGBs instead of RTBs to cover February and April maturities, analysts said this could increase the Philippines’ weight in the index.
National Treasurer Sharon P. Almanza has said that investor confidence in government securities remains unfazed by the corruption scandal surrounding flood control projects, even as the economy sputters in the third quarter after a drop in public investments. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/11/29/confidence-ingovernment-securities-undented-by-corruption-mess/)
Almanza said the governmentissued bond yield spreads remain very tight compared to US Treasuries, while the country’s credit default swap levels are also at their highest. Meanwhile, banks will remain supportive of buying bonds amid slowing credit growth, BSP efforts to reduce outstanding bills and potential reserve requirement ratio cuts to ease liquidity pressures and strengthen transmission. BSP Governor and Chairman of the Monetary Board Eli M. Remolona Jr. has signaled that a December rate cut is likely as the economy is expected to grow between 4 percent to 5 percent in 2025. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/12/04/ with-slow-2025-growth-decemberrate-cut-held-likely/ )
“Worryingly, the Q3 [third quarter] GDP [gross domestic product] drop to 4 percent was entirely on the pullback in public capex, with the impact on private activity likely still ahead of us,” the Deutsche Bank analysts said. With that, investment bank is projecting two further rate cuts in response to a deeper negative output gap that will last longer into 2027.
Filipino savers’ motives evolve over time—Metrobank
ASURVEY in October by the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) showed that Filipinos’ reasons for saving evolve as they move through different life stages, according to the country’s fourth-largest lender.
A statement issued by Metrobank last Thursday read that younger adults tend to focus on financial security and personal needs, working adults prioritize buying a home or funding travel and middle-aged savers concentrate on retirement and their children’s education.
“For many Filipinos, saving is a way to feel prepared for the future,” read the statement. “Elders often remind the younger generation to ‘mag-ipon’ (to save), advice that continues to resonate. While priorities have shifted over time, the goal remains the same: financial security and peace of mind.”
The survey of more than 1200 respondents who answered the question “Para saan ang ipon mo?” (What are you saving for?), revealed that about 21 percent of Filipinos save primarily to build an emergency fund or set aside money for future needs.
According to Metrobank, the finding aligns with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’s “Financial Inclusion Survey (2021),” which found that roughly 4 in 5 savers allocate funds for emergencies. Other common goals include buying or improving a home, which motivates about 16 percent of respondents, and leisure activities such as travel, concerts, or hobbies, cited by 14 percent.
Savings priorities also differ by location.
In Metro Manila, financial stability is the leading motivator, with 23 percent of respondents listing it as their main goal. Home-related expenses follow at 19 percent, and travel or leisure at 17 percent.
Outside the capital, education is the priority, with 20 percent saving for tuition or other school-related costs for themselves or family mem-
AQ for associations
TAccording to the NHMFC, the project has now reached 80-percent progress and expected to be completed by January next year.
NHMFC President Renato L. Tobias was quoted in the statement as saying he considers the project as “a timely and strategic move.” Tobias added that the project is “fully aligned with the digitalization thrust” the Marcos administration and the 8-point agenda of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD). The latter, according to the NHMFC, calls for the full digitalization of all “key shelter agencies” to restore trust in public service.
“We take great pride in taking a bold step forward as we embark on this digital transformation that will significantly enhance the security, availability, and scalability of our
digital infrastructure and applications,” Tobias added.
“The integrity of our data should be safeguarded as far as our clients are concerned and should likewise be made easily accessible,” he said. This modernization effort aims to enhance application performance and reliability, while also bolstering data security through the transition to a next-generation cloud platform. Through Project RLT, applications for housing project take-out of originators are made easier, accessible and faster. On the other hand, housing loan borrowers can easily but securely access their accounts, while payment remittances are likewise posted on time.
The NHMFC, in partnership with DBquest Inc. and Oracle (Philippines) Corp., is one of the first KSAs to adapt cloud migration in data storage. This marks a pivotal shift to a modern, cloud-based environment that supports the corporation’s commitment to integrity and service excellence, the statement read.
HERE are two traditional measures of capability that I’m familiar with: IQ (intelligence quotient) and EQ (emotional quotient). So, when I came to know about AQ (adaptability quotient), it piqued my interest to write about it in the context of associations.
IQ reflects cognitive intelligence and the ability to learn and solve problems while EQ measures emotional intelligence and the ability to relate to and manage one’s own and others’ emotions. AQ is emerging as a crucial third dimension in leadership and organizational resilience.
While the concept was popularized by Natalie Fratto in her 2019 TED Talks, it was Dr. Ross Thornley of AQai who developed a structured, science-based model to measure and build AQ in individuals and organizations.
AQ refers to a person’s ability to adapt to new conditions, embrace change, and thrive in unfamiliar or evolving environments. It’s about how well someone can pivot, unlearn, relearn, and stay relevant despite disruption. For associations and their leaders, who often operate in ecosystems marked by technologi-
cal transformation, shifting member expectations, and socio-political uncertainty, AQ can be a game-changer in the following ways:
1. Navigating constant change. Associations today are confronted with rapid shifts, from digital transformation to demographic changes in membership. Leaders with high AQ can reframe challenges as opportunities, experiment with new strategies, and lead with agility. Associations that cultivate AQ in their culture are better prepared to recalibrate quickly in response to external pressures.
2. Future-proofing membership value. Traditional member value propositions may no longer resonate in an AI-driven world. High-AQ associations are those that stay attuned to changes in their members’ needs and adapt offerings accordingly, whether it’s through new formats for events, digital platforms for learning, or innovative advocacy
bers. Metrobank noted that these differences show both access and opportunity: residents in Metro Manila generally earn more and have easier access to schools and financial services, while those in other regions prioritize education as a path to a
approaches.
3. Empowering agile leadership. Association executives and board members with strong AQ are more likely to inspire trust during uncertain times. They make informed, flexible decisions without being paralyzed by complexity. AQ enables leaders to move forward without perfect information, a skill especially vital when long-term strategies are being redefined.
4. Supporting lifelong learning and unlearning. Associations are key players in knowledge dissemination. A culture of adaptability encourages continual upskilling and reskilling, both for members and staff. HighAQ associations position themselves as learning ecosystems that support professional and personal evolution.
5. Encouraging collaborative innovation. AQ is closely tied to curiosity, openness, and resilience: traits that foster innovation. By embedding adaptability into their DNA, associations create safe environments for collaboration and experimentation. This paves the way for co-created solutions that address complex industry challenges.
Developing AQ isn’t a one-time
better future. Age further influences savings behavior. Among young adults (1824 years old), financial security is the top motivator, followed by personal purchases such as gadgets or clothes (21 percent), and education-related expenses (18 percent). For young Filipinos living outside Metro Manila, about 1 in 4 save specifically for schooling.
Working adults (25-44 years old) tend to prioritize home ownership and financial stability, each cited by 23 percent of respondents. Travel and leisure also remain important, motivating 18 percent of this group. For the middle- aged respondents (45-64 years old), priorities shift toward retirement, securing children’s future, and travel.
About 23 percent of middle-aged respondents save for retirement, 20 percent for children’s education and future needs, and 14 percent for travel or leisure.
Nationwide, these patterns remain consistent, showing that longterm planning and family considerations are top of mind for older savers, according to Metrobank.
initiative; it requires intentional efforts such as: n Leadership training: Offer workshops or mentoring focused on change management, resilience, and agile thinking. n Culture shift: Normalize experimentation, celebrate learning from failure, and encourage adaptability as a core value. n Metrics for adaptability: Beyond performance and satisfaction, track indicators like speed of response to change, innovation adoption rate, and staff/member engagement during transitions. In a world where the only constant is change, AQ is fast becoming an essential predictor of sustained relevance. For associations and their leaders, embracing adaptability is no longer optional; it’s essential. By investing in AQ, associations position themselves not only to survive but to lead boldly into the future.
Octavio Peralta
A ssociation World
CREDIT: Infographic courtesy of the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co.
Bohol bliss: How Amorita turned my Halloween into a dream
“WHERE are you spending Halloween,” asked my hotelier-friend Leeds Trompeta in Ilonggo, adding, “Visit me na.”
That was October 2, and 29 days later, I was leaving the chaos and noise of the Undas passenger departures in Manila, then landing safely at the expansive and relatively quiet new Bohol International Airport on Panglao Island.
In 10 minutes, after passing through what seemed like an endless array of Italian pizzerias, I was at the beautiful haven that is Amorita Resort, with Leeds warmly welcoming me at the entrance. We walked into the main lobby and immediately I was drawn to the spectacular blue of the sky, reflected in the calm waters of Alona Beach down below, all within view of the lounge chairs at an infinity pool by the main reception area.
I immediately breathed a sigh of relief at the serene sight, a silly smile forming on my face as if I couldn’t believe that such a picture-perfect scene could be possible. Then I hugged Leeds for making the visit possible. “Thank you,” I whispered earnestly, as we had our photo taken, that amazing view as our backdrop.
It was a short walk to my villa, one of the 16 secluded accommodations which feature a king-sized bed, a spacious bathroom with its own amenities, a patio with its own plunge pool, a lush garden, and a commanding view of the Bohol Sea. On the bed rested a native tote with my name painted on it, while the long floating table to the right of the bed had a bowl of fruits and a plate with a mini-cake; on it was a caricature of me as cake topper, and a “Welcome Home” written out in icing. So cute!
Reflecting the overall design theme of the resort, the villa was awash in the relaxing colors of brown, white and cream with wood furniture and solihiya touches (rattan sunburst weave) on the bed frame, luggage stand, and patio seating. (There are also 82 similarly designed suites that can accommodate couples to large families in a separate hotel-like building.)
With those introductions, it’s not difficult to believe the awards Amorita have received since its establishment in 2007. This year alone, it received honors at the World Luxury Hotel Awards: Best Luxury Seaside Resort in the World, Best Luxury
Family Beach Resort in the Philippines, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Region.
Last year, it received an award for Best Service from the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence, which the resort has won multiple times. That sweet service was to unfold further during my stay, a trademark that has made the resort a favorite by locals and expats in Asia. (And I heard even by Bangko Sentral Gov. Eli Remolona, who recently hosted a Jackson Hole-like event for the banking reporters, with guest speakers that included the wildly popular former central bank governor of Thailand Sethaput Suthikwartnarueput.)
Lunch with Leeds was at the Saffron Restaurant, where we shared a light lunch of fresh ceviche, followed by small plates from Tomar—the resort’s Tapas restaurant and bar—and a Paella Mariscos. In between spoonfuls, we gabbed about the Michelin Guide list of Philippine restaurants, which were announced in lavish ceremonies the evening before my arrival in Bohol. (Needless to say we laughed critically at how some restaurants made the cut, and wondered, curious, why others didn’t.)
That evening was the staff Halloween costume party, which I had been asked to judge. Let me just say that it’s probably much easier to decide what movie wins the Best Picture award at the Oscars, than to chose the winning costume and booth of the resort’s creative staff. So difficult! But as they say, “There can only be one,” so congratulations to the Grand Champion—the Administration and Engineering Department.
Following this was more mayhem at The Lost Cow, the resort’s steak house where we had a Devilishly Delicious Halloween wine-pairing dinner in partner-
ship with Titania Wine Cellar. Chef Jem Belandres whipped up six glorious dishes, including some tasty amuse bouche to start, but clearly, the star of the evening was the 40-day dry aged Porterhouse steak, char-grilled to perfection.
This was paired with Memoro Quattro Elementi Nero D’Avolo, a rich and fruity red wine from the family-owned Tenute Piccini of Tuscany. It was smooth with a spicy finish, serving to further enhance the smoky flavor of the steak.
Its luxury accommodations and delicious dishes aside, Amorita ups the ante of hospitality with loving displays of affection toward its discriminating clientele. Around 4 pm each day, select staff parade around the poolside and the restaurant, bearing gifts of sweets, ice cream pops, and drinks for the guests. Just a quick midday surprise of tasty snacks to make everyone feel cared for.
Added to this, I managed to get a serving of dried danggit at breakfast and garlic fried rice from a kitchen staff, which just made my morning meal perfect. For my after-lunch coffee, the barista was able to create, with my direction, a flawless flat white with coconut milk. Sooooo good.
The ultimate pampering from the staff, of course, was a gentle, relaxing massage from the Sea Tree Spa, which offers exclusive treatments inspired by traditional Filipino healing techniques, and crafted with natural, locally sourced ingredients.
With the therapist’s oiled hands, she expertly kneaded away the tension from my shoulders and back. In no time, I was dozing off on the masssage table, my snore eventually surprising me awake.
too much or can’t decide what to pursue. Money management and practicality will dictate how much you achieve and how far you get. HHH f
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A change will be a learning experience that will help you sort through what you want to do next. Consider your budget and what it will take to make you happy with the outcome. Don’t sit back when action is required to reach your goal. HHH
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LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Keep your thoughts and intentions to yourself until you are sure your ideas are doable. Taking on issues riddled with emotions will require your full attention. Actions will speak louder than words. A financial or contractual opportunity will unfold if you move forward using discipline and common sense. HHH
h SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t let the little things get to you. Take care of your responsibilities and head in a more desirable direction. Make domestic changes that will make your life easier. An innovative idea will bring you closer to someone who shares your sentiments. HHHH
iSAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Reset your emotions and incorporate a practical way to move forward. Say no to anyone who tries to interfere with your plans or take advantage of you. The best way to reach your goal is to get things done by being focused and disciplined. HH
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CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Be the voice of reason. Manufacture what you want your life to represent. Put changes in place to ensure your comfort and happiness, and make creative investments offering long-term benefits and security. Choose patience over intolerance and love over hate. HHHHH k
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Your involvement and determination will help you reach your goal. Being aware of what’s expected of you and delivering on time will be satisfying and offer relief that everything will be all right. Productivity and sticking to a budget are in your best interest. HHH
lPISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Don’t be hard on yourself or others. Look at what’s unfolding and counter with a positive attitude and the willingness to do something to make a difference. A kind word will change the way others view you. A financial gain or gift is apparent. HHH
BIRTHDAY BABY:
Bacolod Film Festival 2025 Sweet Harvest
LOOK again—for a quiet, subtle, sweet subversion has found itself in one of the outstanding works in the recently completed Bacolod Film Festival.
Now on its second edition, the judges took note of Tuyaw or, more fully, Tuyaw Alisbong, a drama set to song and music, and awarded it the Jury Prize. Utilizing a folk-agricultural motif, where the vapor or mist from the ground rises like a ghost-warning of all the past, including the grief and anguish of dead ancestors, Tuyaw reminds us how cinema when it taps sources of truths becomes ultimately a tool to investigate our social realities and alerts us to the still untapped wellspring origin of ideas from the peripheries we always ignore.
Flawed but highly energized by a sound that is original and trenchant, the film received for its musical director and composer, Lex Chavez, a favorite in the Bacolod Festival circuit, the Best Musical Score. Perhaps a most pleasant surprise for the audience that night was the Best Supporting Actor prize, which went to a searingly sincere performance of Aladin Dato,who plays the father in Tuyaw
Two other films as diverse as they were polarizing at various junctures were at the center of what Tanya Lopez described as “exciting” discourses among the critics. These were Dranreb Cimatu’s
FRIENDS, NOT ENEMIES
IF you’re wondering why an actress is not bitter toward her ex-husband’s current live-in partner, it’s because the girl is not the reason why their marriage fell apart. The actress allows her kids to spend time with the husband’s partner and their children. She and the partner are not close friends but they are OK and she trusts the girl with her own kids. The reason why the actress’ marriage ended was because her ex had an affair with another starlet, who was in a committed relationship at the time. That starlet, despite being in a relationship, did not only have an affair with the actress’ husband but also flings with other actors. The starlet’s ex-partner had been bashed online allegedly for cheating but he has never cheated. It was her all along.
TROLL FARM PRINCESS
THE embattled celebrity has reportedly spent millions on troll farms to positively engage with online content that talks about her. While the engagement indeed makes the celebrity look good superficially, the celebrity is troubled that without the troll farms, most of the comments on her posts and those that include her are negative. The troll farms have been relatively successful except on one platform where engagement is more authentic. There, bashers are having a field day attacking the celebrity. She so badly wants to make a comeback but she knows public opinion is not in her favor right now.
THE REAL SCORE THE young actor was, up until recently, in a popular TV show. He has fans largely because of his longtime screen partner. What many people don’t know is that the young actor already has a girlfriend and he was never romantically interested in his screen partner. In fact, he sees her as a close friend. The feeling is mutual. The screen partner also does not look at the young actor with romance in her eyes. One wonders though how the young actor’s girlfriend feels about how he behaved during the show, during which he practically professed his love for someone else. One more thing about the young actor is that he is not really a very nice guy. In fact, he is not popular among his peers for this reason.
BUSINESSMAN IN LOVE
IT’S an open secret that the businessman is gay. He does not flaunt it but does not hide it either. He has been in love and in relationships many times but those who know him say that his feelings for the male starlet are different. He really is so in love that he foregoes attending work meetings just to be with the male starlet. The businessman has always been a workaholic and people say that it is a good thing that after so many years, he finally has time to relax and have fun. Every year, the businessman never fails to attend a big event that his company organizes. This time, he did and it’s because he was with the male starlet.
Tililing and Charlene Mead Tupas’ Tonton Tililing refers to the persistent ringing, a raging disturbance in one’s head, the very same trigger for filmmaker Cimatu to explore and his writer to pursue. Fleshing this out, he employs actors to dance the characters, visualize the madness and senselessness, exhausting the languages by means of masks and grotesque movements. At times, the scenes teased; there were moments when they mocked our own sensibilities. For all these, Tililing won for Cimatu the Best Director, the Best Screenplay for Kiefer Occeño, and Best Supporting Actress for Errol Filoteo. The Best Costume Design by Zabiel Nemenzo and Best Makeup by Swoop Diaz went also to the same film. Tililing would eventually win the Audience Choice Award, which came with a P25,000 prize. A similar cash prize was received by the director of the film.
In a claustrophobic world, a hardworking woman lives with her wily and macho shithead of a partner who subjects the females around him as an object. With a camera that tightly wounds itself around the events of the day, Tonton by Charlene Mead Tupas is a mature unflinching
gaze at a world that is seemingly built to accept the bit of hell and heaven upon this earth. When at last the fat politico is showered with all that muck and refuse, one is caught in awe between celebration and chaos, the everyday world of discord and disorder.
The night saw Tonton being judged the Best Picture for this year; Maria Victoria Mendoza, who played with quiet intensity the resigned woman of the hapless eatery, was adjudged Best Actress. Its cinematography by Giles Gelvoleo and Production Design by Rowena Tupas were both selected as the best for this year.
The Best Picture was given a P50,000 prize.
The other awards were shared by the other film entries. A new actor appears to be promising—he is Oliver Villavert, the other lead in the film We Can Really Only Ever Be One. The film was also adjudged as having demonstrated the Best Editing by Aldwin Juson.
The Best Original Story was given to Balay Bantala Films’ Bagong Bayan, a re-imagining of our National Hero Jose P. Rizal finding himself in a time-travel at present, partaking not only of the fabled grilled chicken in Bacolod but also
experiencing how the world has not changed at all for the better.
A film titled Balay Alibangbang was cited for its ensemble performance.
The jury for the second edition of the Bacolod Film Festival is composed of a formidable team, which include Dr. Katrina Ross Tan, Chair, a film educator who established the Makiling film lab, and Pelikultura; Chris Millado, founder and festival director of Cinemalaya; Butch Ibañez, film producer and general manager of Solar Films; and two former chairpersons of the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino, Dr. Roland Tolentino, incoming head, and this writer, incoming vice-head of the Executive Committee on Cinema under the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.
The Bacolod Film Festival is supported by partners the Negros Cultural Foundation, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, the Movie Television Review and Classification Board, and the House of Representatives. Mayor Greg Casacataya, who chairs the Bacolod Film Festival, led the local officials who graced the festivities.
A string of awards makes it clear: ‘One Battle After Another’ is the Oscar front-runner
By Jake Coyle The Associated Press
NEW YORK—If there were any doubt, the first few days of Hollywood’s year-end awards has already made it abundantly clear: Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another is the Oscar front-runner.
On Monday, One Battle After Another won best film at the 35th Gotham Awards. On Tuesday, it was named best film by the New York Film Critics Circle. On Wednesday, it swept the National Board of Review Awards, winning best film, best director for Anderson and acting awards for Leonardo DiCaprio, Benicio del Toro and newcomer Chase Infiniti.
Expect to hear this pun a lot: one award after another.
“I didn’t expect this, actually,” Anderson said at the Gothams. “I started to think I didn’t know what was going on.”
That may be the first, and last, time Anderson can say that this awards season.
One Battle After Another, a father-daughter tale of political resistance in the face of recurring oppression, has firmly established itself as the movie of the moment. With an opening scene depicting a raid at an immigrant detention facility, Anderson’s opus has struck critics and moviegoers, alike, for its contemporary relevance in the first year of President Donald Trump’s second
Bohol…
term. Even foes of the film, like conservative commentator Ben Shapiro, have predicted it will “win all the Academy Awards.”
Yet Anderson’s film is, in many ways, an Academy Awards oddity. It’s a critically acclaimed release that skipped film festivals. It’s a big-budget studio movie that wasn’t a hit. In fact, should One Battle After Another go on to win at the March 15 Oscars, it could be one of the only money-losers to ever win the industry’s top honor.
Smaller films have, increasingly, won best picture. That includes indies like The Hurt Locker, Moonlight and Nomadland—much-praised films with minuscule box office. Hollywood long ago got used to honoring films that exist largely outside its mainstream, franchise-obsessed business. And the notion of what constitutes a best-picture movie has grown elastic. Parasite, Everything Everywhere All at Once and, the most recent winner, Anora, have all shaken traditional notions of Oscar material.
But even the smallest Oscar winners have been commercial successes. Even CODA, the pandemic-era 2022 winner that went straight to streaming, was a big win for the then-nascent Apple TV. Historically, Hollywood likes to reward winners.
One Battle After Another represents something different. With a production budget of at least $130 million (some reports have it much higher)
healing. Before I arrived, Leeds had asked me what activities I wanted to engage in while I was on the island. But I said that I’d been to the province several times that I think I’ve seen most of the “touristy” sites available. And with just a few days, I thought it best to just “cocoon” in the resort. Take a dip in the plunge pool, nourish my body with delicious food and drink, meet new people, get a relaxing massage, then sleep. And do
and another $70 million in marketing costs, it will have to have an extraordinary after-theater life to break even. Thus far, the Warner Bros. release has made $70.6 million domestically and $131.6 million overseas—great sums for an adultoriented, R-rated, auteur-driven film that runs nearly three hours.
Still, Variety earlier estimated One Battle After Another will lose $100 million, a figure that Warner Bros. has disputed. It’s too harsh a label, but such a discrepancy could make One Battle After Another tagged as the first best picture-winning flop. At a time when so few films anything like One Battle After Another get greenlit, let alone with such budgets, the cost of One Battle After Another could even be seen as a badge of honor. Here is a movie that win, lose or draw, is in the fight for a kind of moviemaking that’s under siege. To quote DiCaprio’s Bob Ferguson: “Viva la revolution!”
it all over again the next day. So whether one seeks the comforts of luxury, a culinary journey, a wellness retreat, or perhaps exciting activities by the sea (which I will try next, I promise!), Amorita brings it all together in one breathtaking location on Panglao Island. For bookings and reservations, call (02) 8931-9999, email inquiries@amoritaresort.com, or visit www.amoritaresort. com
LEONARDO
DICAPRIO stars in One Battle After Another
Hotel101 signs MOU with DOT, DMW to offer IPON Tourism for OFWs
Hotel101 Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Migrant Workers (DWM) in support of the “Balik Bayani sa Turismo” (BBST) Program. This partnership champions IPON Tourism, a program designed to promote the sustainable and productive reintegration of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) into Philippine society by providing investment and livelihood opportunities in the tourism sector.
Hotel101 Group General Manager Charley Magabo joined DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco and DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, in a ceremonial MOU signing held on November 27, 2025, at the DOT Main Office in Makati City.
The BBST Program, spearheaded by the DOT in partnership with the DMW, supports the national government’s reintegration initiatives for OFWs. It formalizes both agencies’ commitment to creating and establishing opportunities for livelihood, entrepreneurship, savings, investments, and financial literacy for OFWs and their families.
“Today’s signing with IPON Tourism marks the newest and most expansive component of our partnership with the DMW. This pillar opens pathways
for OFWs to engage in tourism through industries covered by our private sector partners—as investors or entrepreneurs. Opportunities include condotel investments, offering structured and credible options for long-term financial security, among others,” explained Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco.
Under this program, OFWs can invest in Hotel101 projects such as Hotel101-Davao and Hotel101-Libis Bridgetowne, and enjoy a 30 percent share in gross hotel revenues, along with 10 free stay vouchers redeemable at any Hotel101 property worldwide.
“We commend Hotel101 for its success in bringing a homegrown Filipino brand to the world and for opening accessible investment pathways in the accommodation sector,” Secretary Frasco added.
Hotel101 Group GM Charley Magabo shared: that “Hotel101 proudly steps forward to offer investment opportunities to OFWs that are transparent, accessible, and rewarding. To our OFWs: You are not just contributors to the economy; you are partners in progress. This initiative gives OFWs a stake in the hospitality industry and
a passport to experiences in key destinations in the Philippines and across the globe.”
He further emphasized: “From Hotel101Manila and Hotel101-Fort, we are expanding next year to Hotel101-Davao, Hotel101Cebu, and internationally with Hotel101Madrid and Hotel101-Niseko, followed by many other countries as we pursue our grand vision of bringing the Filipino hotel brand Hotel101 to 100 countries worldwide. This expansion is not just about hotels, it’s about creating a network where every Filipino as a guest or as a unitowner feels at home anywhere in the world.”
Hotel101 is a homegrown Filipino brand with a global vision to build 1 million hotel rooms worldwide. On July 1, 2025, Hotel101 made history as the first Filipino company to be listed on the US NASDAQ. This achievement is a testament to Filipino ingenuity and perseverance on the global stage. As of November 25, 2025, Hotel101 Global has a market capitalization of $1.9 Billion USD (P112 Billion Pesos) and is poised to become one of the major generators of US Dollar inflows to the Philippine economy.
M-Commerce Launches MPower: A Women-Centered CSR Initiative in Partnership with Vice Cosmetics
M-COMMERCE , one of the country’s fastestrising leaders in digital commerce and live selling, has launched MPower, a transformative CSR program designed to uplift Filipino women through skills development, digital empowerment, and incomegenerating opportunities. The initiative, created in partnership with Vice Cosmetics, marks M-Commerce’s first major project focused on women empowerment—an important milestone that aligns with the company’s longterm vision for inclusive community development.
While M-Commerce has previously supported farmers, local communities, and disaster response efforts, MPower represents a more focused approach toward building sustainable livelihoods. With 60 percent of M-Commerce’s workforce composed of women, the company sees this initiative as a natural extension of its values. “E-commerce should be inclusive,” the company shares. “If you’re a mom staying at home, or someone who wants flexible work, you deserve opportunities that let you earn while still caring for your family.”
MPower equips participants with training in affiliate marketing, content creation, and professional live hosting—skills directly connected to the company’s core expertise. Because M-Commerce manages 35 brands and operates multiple departments including creator management, ads management, and startup incubation teams, its trainers bring real-world experience and industry best practices. The goal is to simplify and professionalize the path toward becoming an affiliate, creator, or branded live host, allowing women to confidently enter the digital marketplace.
This first run of MPower will not be the last.
M-Commerce is already in talks with several LGUs nationwide to open more training batches for women, young parents, students, and eventually the youth and other community groups. “This is just the beginning,” adds GB Samson - CoFounder/External Business Development Director. “We’re excited to help more people—women and men—start their journey in content creation and affiliate marketing.”
The long-term vision is bold: to develop Filipino creators and hosts who can one day stand alongside the best in Asia. Inspired by China’s booming live commerce industry, M-Commerce hopes to build incubator programs, nationwide auditions, and even reality-style creator houses in partnership with TikTok. Through Startalk and Sync Talent under the M Group of Companies, the groundwork has already begun.
For M-Commerce, MPower is not just a CSR project—it is an investment in people. “Always explore, keep learning. Small steps lead to big success,” the company encourages. With MPower, those small steps begin today for hundreds of Filipino women ready to transform their digital future.
Exciting shows coming to Newport World Resorts
THE stage is set for another season of world-class performances as Newport World Resorts unveils its exciting entertainment calendar for the rest of 2025 and the start of 2026. From OPM concerts to original Filipino musicals, audiences can look forward to an extraordinary series of shows across the property’s entertainment venues.
Shrek The Musical Shrek and his fairytale crew bring their swampy adventures to the Philippine stage adaptation of Shrek The Musical, the hit Broadway show that audiences around the world have loved. Newport World Resorts presents the finest Filipino theater stars in this ogre-sized production. The show runs until December 21, 2025, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. December concerts
This December, Newport World Resorts shines the spotlight on Original Pilipino Music with a series of concerts featuring some of the nation’s most beloved artists. On December 8, OPM mainstay Truefaith takes center stage for Truefaith 33, a milestone anniversary concert marking the band’s 33 remarkable years in music. The following night, on December 9, Nonoy Zuñiga returns to the stage for an encore performance of his 50th anniversary concert “Beyond Gold: Songs of a Lifetime”. Music fans are also treated on December 10 and 11 with Here and Now: Celebrating the Music of Jose Mari Chan. The two-night, sold-out concert celebrates the music of the legendary icon, featuring special
GB Samson, Business Development Director, M-Commerce
Honeybon Unwraps the Perfect Gift for the Holidays: Design-It-Yourself Christmas Gingerbread Houses
THIS Christmas, Honeybon is bringing back a well-loved holiday favorite, the Design-It-Yourself Christmas Gingerbread House. Now presented in festive new packaging, it’s the perfect gift for spreading holiday cheer. Each kit comes with a freshly baked gingerbread house, icing, and an assortment of colorful candies, everything you need to build and decorate your own winter wonderland. Perfect for families, friends, kids, and kids at heart, Honeybon’s DIY Gingerbread House offers a fun and creative way to make the season extra sweet. Priced at P650, this delightful kit is more than just a treat. It’s an experience to be shared. After all, the best gifts are the ones that create lasting memories with the people you love. Honeybon’s Design-It-Yourself Gingerbread Houses will be available starting November 15, 2025 at all Honeybon branches in SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, and Festival Mall, or online at honeybon.ph.
To make the holidays even more magical, Honeybon is also hosting Gingerbread House Decorating Workshops, where participants can design their own creations while enjoying snacks. To register, simply message Honeybon on Facebook or Instagram.
Follow @honeybonph on social media for updates and workshop schedules.
performances from some of his fellow OPM artists.
The Grand Countdown to 2026 Ring in 2026 in grand fashion with Newport World Resorts’ signature countdown celebration, The Grand Countdown to 2026 at the Marriott Grand Ballroom.
The event will feature powerhouse performances from a star-studded lineup featuring world-class OPM icons Jessica Sanchez, Sarah Geronimo, Matteo Guidicelli, Billy Crawford, Bamboo, and Cup of Joe.
Bagets The Musical Opening on January 23, 2026, Bagets: The Musical marks the first major theatrical production of the new year at Newport World Resorts. A reimagining of the iconic 1984 film, the show captures the spirit, style, and youthful energy of the original for a new generation. A production of Newport World Resorts with Philippine STAR and VIVA communications, the show is staged by PETA Plus led by director Maribel Legarda, playwright J-mee Katanyag, and musical director Vince Lim. For more information on concerts and shows at Newport World Resorts, visit www.newportworldresorts. com and follow @newportworldresorts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Join Newport World Resorts Viber Community at https://newportwr.com/ nwrvibercommunity for exclusive updates. Every visit is made more rewarding with an Epic Rewards membership, download the Epic Rewards Mobile App for free at the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
GSIS strengthens member engagement in Basilan; evaluates support for local high school following dialogue
GOVERNMENT Service Insurance System (GSIS) President and General Manager (PGM) Wick Veloso recently led a stakeholders’ dialogue with the teaching personnel of Basilan National High School (BNHS).
The dialogue serves as a critical platform for the GSIS leadership to gather direct inputs from the education sector and identify concrete ways to enhance service delivery. Veloso emphasized that such engagements are essential to ensure that GSIS programs remain responsive to the evolving needs of its members, particularly those serving in the provinces.
BNHS is a vital institution in the region, standing as one of the leading secondary schools in the Isabela City Schools Division. Offering both junior and senior high school programs, it currently serves a student population of approximately 8,000.
During the open forum, teachers raised several key concerns, including the resumption of the grant of dividends. They also advocated for the enhancement of the GSIS Educational Subsidy Program
(GESP), proposing that coverage be expanded to include legal dependents beyond direct children, such as nephews and nieces, and that eligibility be extended to college students across all year levels.
Following the exchange and recognizing the challenges faced by the school due to its large student population, Veloso endorsed the evaluation of BNHS for inclusion in the agency’s 2026 AdoptA-School Program.
The GSIS Adopt-A-School Program is a long-running corporate social responsibility initiative that provides technology and learning support to public schools nationwide in partnership with the Department of Education. It focuses especially on “last-mile” and underserved schools, with GSIS allocating dedicated funds per school to upgrade facilities and digital tools for teaching and learning.
The visit to Basilan underscores the pension fund’s commitment to bring its services closer to members and ensure that policy decisions are informed by the actual concerns of government employees.
In the photo are, from left, Migrant Workers Undersecretary Felicitas Bay, Hotel101 Group Head of Public Relations Brian Ong, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Hotel101 Group General Manager Charley Magabo, and Tourism Undersecretary Maria Rica Bueno.
Jamie Wilson (2nd from left), Krystal Kane (2nd from right), Topper Fabregas (center), Alfredo Reyes (right), and Julia Serad (left) take center stage in Shrek The Musical 2025 as Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, Lord Farquaad, and Dragon, respectively.
Editor: Tet Andolong • www.businessmirror.com.ph
Motoring BusinessMirror
KIA MOVEMENT MEDIA DRIVE: THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE
ARandy S. Peregrino
Kia Philippines recently hosted its biggest drive event. The event commissioned four models, each representing a different segment. Never before has the Korean automaker, under the new distributor, organized such a blended experiential drive event. It provided an ultimate experience. The showcase featured the subcompact crossover Sonet, the mid-sized premium SUV Sorento Turbo Hybrid, the premium minivan Carnival Turbo Hybrid, and the flagship all-electric EV9. All models commissioned represent the brand’s range of powertrains: conventional internal combustion engine (ICE), boosted hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), and battery electric vehicle (BEV). Experiencing four of the latest models made testing the various powertrains and their driving dynamics interesting. To ensure ample drive and ride experience, the event destinations for the three-day drive were La Union and Patapat in Ilocos Norte.
The Sonet perspective THE first task was the Sonet subcompact crossover SUV 1.5 SX AT variant—our only ICE-powered model. Under the hood is a 1.5-liter In-Line 4-Cylinder Dual Port Fuel Injected Smartstream gasoline engine, generating 113 hp and 144 N-m of torque, paired with the Kia Intelligent Variable Transmission. Departing from Solaire North, we took this small SUV through the Northern freeways up to Rosario, La Union, setting the stage for an insightful driving experience. Behind the wheel, small cars always entail fun-to-drive dynamics. Elevated, the driver’s seat provides a better vantage point and greater comfort. Thanks to the Sonet’s favorable powerto-weight ratio, driving the long stretch of NLEX was effortless. Acceleration is immediate—step on it, and it will deliver. The vehicle’s agility, nimbleness, and stable form persisted even at freeway speeds. Steering response stood out as well. For its size, the Sonet’s NVH is one for the books.
From a passenger’s standpoint, there is plenty of space for its compact size, especially at the back. The long stretch to the end
of the TPLEX drive did not cause any discomfort for the two tall adult occupants, as the new seat contours provided enough support and coziness. Additionally, the cool air conditioning and crisp audio enhanced the driving and riding pleasure.
Premium Sorento Turbo Hybrid experience NEXT on the list was the Sorento Turbo Hybrid SX variant. Moving to this model from the Sonet was a significant jump in size and power. Power-wise, the premium SUV’s boosted intelligent hybrid system delivers over 230 hp and 367 N-m of torque combined. Power is transferred to all four wheels intelligently via a six-speed automatic transmission. That was more than enough for the demand of spirited driving ahead along the provincial highway. Driving on the national highway,
IT’S a shame that the automotive industry missed its target of selling at least half a million vehicles in 2024. But it appears it will hit its mark this year?
That’s the bold prediction from no less than Rommel Gutierrez, the president of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI).
“We are on target,” said Gutierrez, the longest-serving CAMPI president for more than a decade now. “I cannot confirm yet if 500,000 units would be sold in
2025, but it’s possible if we get all the figures by the end of December.”
With barely a month to go before the year bids goodbye, the industry is still short by at least 20 percent of hitting the half-a-million sales goal.
From January to October alone, CAMPI said sales reached 383,424 units compared to the 384,310 units sold in the same period in 2024.
Gutierrez said the prospects are bright about clinching the 2025 target, although he added it was still an “aspirational thing.” In 2024, CAMPI, whose membership include 26 car brands, faltered in its prediction. But it found consolation to the fact that it sold a record 467,252 units that year—buoyed up by sales of 40,898 units in November and 42,044 units in December.
Gutierrez said the political climate, darkened mainly by alleged massive corruption in the
the boosted hybrid powertrain took over. It demonstrated its brute whenever summoned. With substantial torque on all four wheels, accelerating and overtaking other vehicles were effortless. On winding roads, we simply stepped on it and let the Turbo Hybrid system do its thing. The vehicle was well-planted and stable throughout. The ascending parts felt levelled, with good steering feedback, which made the bends seamless.
Like any premium SUV, a cabin with luxury and technology has its rewards. As a rear passenger, premium materials, leather upholstery, and adjustable seating brought comfort on the long drive. The 12-speaker Bose premium sound system enhances the audio experience. The second row offers premium features, including generous legroom, rear air vents, and charging ports. That elevated cup holder on the side door is
a clever design. As for the ride and NVH, everything inside was tranquil enough to put passengers to sleep.
Carnival Turbo Hybrid First-class experience
WE then moved on to the premium minivan, the Carnival Turbo Hybrid. Since the model’s newgeneration design was introduced, the Carnival has become more striking and commanding. The latest version is now powered by Kia’s turbo hybrid system, similar to that of the Sorento. But output is higher at 241 hp and 367 N-m of torque. Power is transferred to the front wheels intelligently via a six-speed automatic transmission. But trust us when we say the acceleration feel is more aggressive and linear than the turbodiesel variant. Behind the wheel, the effect of the overall size was felt during
bends, but the swift acceleration said otherwise. Every time we step on it, it goes as if it’s a small car. Surpassing slower vehicles became easier and effortless. The good steering feedback also helped control the long frame during tight curves. Perhaps the rewarding experience was sitting in the second-row captain seats. Here, the Premium Relaxation Seats feature power reclining, a cushion, and a leg rest. There are also separate air-con controls, window blinds, USB chargers, and whatnot. All these, plus the roomy cabin with dual sunroof, offer that first-class overall ambience. About an hour of that rear passenger experience was habit-forming.
The electrifying EV9 GT-Line PERHAPS the most sought-after model was the 2024 World Car of the Year and 2024 World Electric Vehicle Award winner, the EV9
GT-Line all-electric flagship SUV. Driving this exceptional EV SUV for over an hour along the long stretch of the Ilocos National Highway was electrifying. Motivated by dual electric motors with a combined output of 379 hp and 700 N-m of torque, which screams power, literally. On paper, the all-electric range is up to 505 kilometers. Never mind the postmodern exterior design. The interior is just as unconventional, featuring a pair of angled display panels that
government’s flood control projects tainted by billions in kickbacks, has so far not impacted on the industry.
“We don’t feel that much impact from political issues,” said Gutierrez as quoted by Inquirer’s Logan Kal-El M. Zapanta.
When I asked Rommel if it’s true he’d be replaced soon as CAMPI president by Jose Maria “Jing”
Atienza, he said: “Yes, Sir. I am actually retired three years ago pa. About time to enjoy life. Thanks for all the support.”
Gutierrez was the legal counsel of Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) while serving as CAMPI president for 13 years.
Atienza said he was surprised to learn he’d be the next CAMPI president.
“I am not sure where the news came from,” he said. “I know members still need to decide and elect the next set of officers for next year.”
When his new posting is finally formalized, Atienza will come in while also being the TMP executive vice president on top of being the chairman of Toyota Tech School in Sta. Rosa City, Laguna. The plate a bit full? But knowing him, he’ll pull through. All the best, Jing.
Lexus promo
THE following is from Raphael Mateo “Matty” Puno, the newest drumbeater of Lexus Manila president Carlo Ablaza: “Lexus continues its commitment to craftsmanship and customer care with the Lexus 5-Year Warranty Program, underscoring the brand’s promise to deliver vehicles of uncompromising quality, durability and reliability.
“This aims to expand the bounds of the thoughtful kind of luxury that’s unmistakably Lexus.
“The program on all brand-new vehicles purchased from the Lexus Manila Gallery begins on the car’s delivery date and combines a 3-Year or 100,000-kilometer Manufacturer Warranty with an additional 2-Year Service Rewards Warranty that offers unlimited mileage coverage.
“From concept to creation, every Lexus embodies the brand’s philosophy of humancentered innovation and Takumi craftsmanship.
“Each curve, surface and stitch is the result of thoughtful design where beauty meets engineering precision. The result is a driving experience that is intuitive, refined and distinctly Lexus.
“Lexus Manila Gallery is located at Grand Central Park, 8th Avenue corner Col. Santos, Taguig. To learn more, visit the Lexus website at lexus.com.ph or visit our social media pages on Facebook and
“DriveWise”
Instagram @lexusph.
“You may also download the MyLEXUS App available on both Android and iOS users to receive live updates and access other premium services.”
Thank you, Matty. Jade SisonMendoza couldn’t be prouder.
PEE STOP Congratulations on the smashing success of the recent
(IN photo) The author driving the EV9 GT-Line all-electric SUV. FORT MANAHAN
THE two EV9 units reached the Evro Charging Station in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte after the Patapat Viaduct.
Gilas to Thai SEA Games rag tag team?
TBy Josef Ramos
HE Gilas Pilipinas roster to the Thailand 33rd Southeast Asian Games is officially out and a quick glance depicts a squad lacking in certified go-to guys and one that’s laced with collegiate standouts with no national team experience.
A rag tag team?
I cannot comment on how it [goes], how they choose who is in or not,” head coach Norman Black said. “It’s really up to the SBP [Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas] to deal with these things with the Thailand organizers.” Thailand doesn’t want naturalized or heritage players to play for their respective countries that’s why Justin Brownlee’s been the first to be crossed out.
T hen it took weeks before the the Thais to release the list of who’s in and who’s out.
For Black, he has the usual suspects, those with national team experience— Ray Parks, Jamie Malonzo, Matthew Wright, Justin Chua, Robert Bolick, Abu Trater and Von Pessumal.
He also has Thirdy Ravena, who plied his trade abroad but not in the domestic pro league, but who’s created an impact or two where ever he played, and there’s Dalph Adem Panopio, Blackwater’s Filipino-Italian rookie out of Cal State Baskersfield and with a FIBA U19 credential.
The others are still, or recently out, in college—Cedric Manzano of Adamson University, Allen Liwag of College of Saint Benilde and VJ Pre, who had a brief yet dramatic stint at Far Eastern University.
Black was stingy with his comment about the team, which exlcluded those in his bucket list—Brownlee, Matt Ganuelas-Rosser, De La Salle’s Michael Philips, US NCAA standout Remy Martin, Dave Ildefonso, Jason Brickman and Geo Chiu.
I’m here to coach and win games for Team Philippines,” said Black, who’s got 10 days to polish the team for its first game in Group A against Malaysia at 11:30 a.m. on December 14 at the Nimitbutr Stadium in Bangkok.
V ietnam’s up next for Gilas on December 14 also at 11:30 a.m. Group B has 2022 champion Indonesia, Singapore and Myanmar. Parks is the most experienced with five tours of duty—SEA Games champion in 2011, 2013 and 2017, 2016 Olympic qualifying tournament and 2022 FIBA Asia Cup.
Tratter, on the other hand, played for Gilas in the 2018 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers against Australia while Bolick was at the 2019 FIBA World
Jennifer Uy: Unbreakable!
JENNIFER UY proved how unbreakable she could be after finishing the The Ultraman World Championship in Hawaii over the weekend.
Uy became the first Filipina to finish the brutal survival of the fittest event.
When I crossed the finish line, I wanted the world to see that Filipinos can,” said Uy, her voice carrying the exhaustion of enduring 320 miles (515 kms) across three brutal days. “This milestone is for the Philippines. It is a symbol of what Filipinos can do.”
Held on the Big Island, the Ultraman is one of the most punishing ultraendurance triathlons on earth: 515 kms through open water, unforgiving bike climbs and a soul-crushing run.
W ith only 20 elite athletes invited this year, the competition was ruthless—several fell short, but Uy wasn’t one of them.
Uy endured, she finished and she did it while carrying the Philippine flag into the record books—she opened with a demanding fours hours, 39 minutes and 41 seconds in swimming 10 kms and 7:17:57 in the 144-km) bike leg to close Day 1.
Day 2 saw her push through another 171.4 miles (275 kms) of cycling, completing it in 11:28:16 for a two-day total of 23:25:54 on the bike.
O n Day 3, she confronted the notorious 52.4-mile (84.3 km) double marathon, finishing in 10:34:11 for an overall time of 34:00:05.
Her performance placed her third among women and 13th overall–though Ultraman is less about podiums and more about survival and personal conquest.
T he race’s champion, Alex Kniazeu, recorded 21:27:36, but in Ultraman, every finisher earns the same medal because beating the course is the true victory.
Uy understood that deeply, especially after nearly missing the cutoff at Ultraman Florida earlier this year by less than two minutes.
Th at near-defeat forged a hunger that carried her to Hawaii, where she vowed she would never repeat the mistakes that almost cost her before.
Knowing my struggle in Florida
stemmed from poor fueling, I enforced a strict, pre-planned nutrition schedule,” Uy said. “Every 15 minutes, calories and electrolytes.”
“ The mindset that fueled my final push was mission-driven motivation,” she said. “I shifted my focus from personal discomfort to the responsibility of being the first Filipino to complete the Ultraman World Championship.”
That sense of accountability to a goal bigger than myself gave me the emotional fuel to override the urge to quit,” she added. Her pacing strategy was deliberate, guided by coaches Nylah Bautista and Saul Sibayan, whose data-driven approach ensured she avoided burning out too early.
Nutritionist Timothy Ting also crafted a meticulous fueling and recovery system, which Uy credits as foundational to her survival and success.
The most crucial preparation was my meticulous nutrition and recovery strategy,” she said. “It wasn’t just about fueling. It was a disciplined process designed to manage risk and maintain physical sustainability over a prolonged, stressful period. That meant prioritizing sleep, refueling, and systems that would keep my body from shutting down. I committed to maintaining a positive mindset and demeanor throughout the race—not just for myself, but to prevent my attitude from adding stress to my team.” Day 1 nearly broke her. She barely made the cutoff and was the last allowed through, knowing two others had already been eliminated. Day 1, the swim and bike, was the toughest for me. I barely made the cutoff—I was the last participant allowed through. Two others didn’t make it. When I saw my total swim time of 4 hours and 47 minutes, and realized I had 7 hours and 13 minutes left to finish a brutal bike course, I knew it would be a painful, stressful, full-blown battle. It felt like God was asking, ‘How badly do you want this?’ And because I wanted it so badly, I pushed with every ounce of grit. Those 7 hours and 10 minutes on the bike were pure determination.”
