BusinessMirror December 19, 2025

Budget bicam work done, ratification set Dec. 29 By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz

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RUSSIA IS TRYING TO OVERWHELM EUROPE WITH ITS SABOTAGE CAMPAIGN, WESTERN OFFICIALS SAY

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ITH bicameral conference committee (bicam) proceedings now completed, Congress is set to ratify the proposed P6.793-trillion national budget for 2026 on December 29, averting a reenacted General Appropriations Act while expressing confidence that no budget item will be vetoed. House Committee on Appropriations Chairperson Mikaela Angela Suansing and Senate Committee on Finance Chairman Sherwin Gatchalian, the bicam co-chairs, con-

firmed early Thursday that all contentious issues have been settled and that the budget is now on track for ratification by both chambers. Gatchalian said the signing and ratification schedule was adjusted to allow time for reconciliation, balancing, and printing of the bicameral report. Gatchalian said the legislative calendar needs to be amended to accommodate the final steps of the budget process. He noted that both chambers will move to amend the calendar on Monday, as the original schedule had set the budget ratification for that day.

Gatchalian added that the bicam report is expected to be signed on December 28, ratified by the House and the Senate on December 29, and transmitted to Malacañang the same day for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s signature. Suansing said “We can now confidently say that, now that the bicam has concluded, there will be no reenacted budget.” Both lawmakers said the bicameral panel worked overtime over the past several days to meet constitutional deadlines and ensure the continuity of government operations and public services.

Suansing said the timeline was deliberately structured to give the executive branch sufficient time to review the budget before it is signed into law by the President before the end of the year. “We just want to give the assurance that the executive has enough time to review,” Suansing said. She added that the bicam panel coordinated closely with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to transmit finalized agency items, allowing the executive review to run in parallel with the completion of the enrolled GAB. See “Bicam,” A2

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THINK TANK: ECONOMIC GROWTH TO HIT 4.6% IN Q4 www.businessmirror.com.ph

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Friday, December 19, 2025 Vol. 21 No. 72

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HISTORIC BREAKTHROUGHS AT SEA GAMES Tennis star Alex Eala poses with her gold medal during the medal ceremony after defeating Thailand’s Mananchaya Sawangkaew in straight sets to win the women’s singles gold, ending a 26-year wait for a Filipina SEA Games champion in the event, at the Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The Philippine women’s football team, the Filipinas, celebrates after clinching the country’s first-ever SEA Games football gold—men’s or women’s—following a dramatic 6–5 penalty shootout victory over four-time defending champion Vietnam after a 1–1 draw in extra time at Chonburi Daikin Stadium in Chonburi, Thailand. Jackie Sawicki converted the winning kick, while goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel sealed the triumph with a crucial save. LEFT PHOTO BY ACHMAD IBRAHIM/AP; RIGHT PHOTO VIA SEA GAMES 2025

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By Andrea San Juan @andreasanjuan

OWER inflation, increased OFW remittances and exports, lower interest rates and a rebound in government spending are seen to propel the Philippine economy by 4.6 percent in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to UA&P’s Market Call report. “We expect a faster uptick of 4.6 percent in Q4-2025 from 4 percent in Q3. Low inflation, higher OFW remittances [esp. in peso terms] and exports, lower interest rates and return to positive year-on-year growth in government spending should see consumers open their bank accounts/ewallets more generously than in Q3,” the Market Call noted.

The economists noted that more robust consumer spending and lower current account deficits should drive this growth, supporting households’ holiday spending along with an employment recovery. “Helping job creation, exports may continue its healthy boost into year-end,” they also pointed out. See “Growth,” A8

WITH 90 YEARS OF ECONOMIC PLANNING, PHL LOOKS AHEAD By Andrea E. San Juan

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S the Philippines marks 90 years of socioeconomic planning, the country’s chief economist called on the government and private stakeholders to draw lessons from the past while remaining forward-looking in addressing emerging and persistent development challenges. “This milestone invites us to look ahead. The challenges before us—climate change, rapid technological shifts, geopolitical uncertainties, and persistent inequalities—demand that our

planning system be even more future-ready, well-coordinated, and institutionally robust,” Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said. Meanwhile, he stressed that DEPDev’s mandate is to link planning with budgeting, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation, so that “good plans lead to real and measurable improvements in people’s lives.” Balisacan made these remarks as he highlighted the “enduring role” of national planning institutions in steering the country’s See “Planning,” A2

BSP weighs risks in having longer hours for RTGS By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

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@reine_alberto

AVING a near-24/7 operation of the Peso Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) system could speed up cross-border payments, but also introduce a range of operational, cybersecurity, liquidity and systemic risks, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). In a discussion paper titled “Near-24/7 Availability: Extending the Boundaries of PhilPaSSplus,” the BSP weighed its plan to extend PhilPaSSplus operating hours following a continuous service model. Should the Peso RTGS Payment System, or PhilPaSSplus, operate for

near-24/7, or for seven days a week and 22 hours per day, with a 2-hour window reserved for system maintenance and testing, the BSP said this will create new or improved businesses, strengthen control over risk exposures, yield savings and increase opportunities for growth. PhilPaSSplus is the country’s lone peso large-value payment system supporting a wide range of critical payment flows, such as interbank/inter-institution funds transfers, security transactions, Peso leg of foreign exchange (FX) trades and government disbursements and collections. It currently operates from 9 a.m. to 5.45 p.m., Monday to Friday, See “RTGS,” A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 58.6450 n JAPAN 0.3767 n UK 78.4553 n HK 7.5369 n CHINA 8.3244 n SINGAPORE 45.4436 n AUSTRALIA 38.7174 n EU 68.8610 n KOREA 0.0398 n SAUDI ARABIA 15.6358 Source: BSP (December 18, 2025)

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A2 Friday, December 19, 2025

Bicam…

Continued from A1

Suansing rejected suggestions that the bicam outcome reflected concessions between the House and the Senate, stressing that discussions focused on producing a credible and accountable national budget. “I wouldn’t say it’s a House concession. We’ve been working together very hard over the past few days to get to a budget that both Houses will be proud of,” she said. “So again, we want to make sure that we have a budget that the Filipino people can trust,” Suansing stressed. Gatchalian said the 2026 GAB includes safeguards to prevent problems encountered in past budgets. “Well, what’s important here is that all the safeguards are already built into this budget,” he said. “So that flood control failures are not repeated, ghost projects do not happen again, and projects that cannot be located or are substandard are no longer repeated.” He said projects are now clearly identified to strengthen transparency and accountability. “What’s important here is that all of that will go to the people. The people will benefit from it.” The bicam chairs expressed confidence that the President will sign the 2026 GAB, citing close coordination with government agencies and the executive branch throughout the process. “I’m confident that nothing will be vetoed—very confident,” Gatchalian said. Suansing agreed, noting that no items were removed or inserted without proper coordination. “We also don’t put in items in the budgets of agencies without the approval of the head of agency and the agency itself,” she pointed out.

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DPWH to hire ‘fresh blood’ in January to fill 2,000 posts

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By Lorenz S. Marasigan

HE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will launch a massive recruitment drive starting January to fill around 2,000 positions, with top universities and colleges as primary targets for what a Cabinet official described as an infusion of “fresh blood” into the corruption-plagued agency. In a press briefing on Thursday, Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said the agency will conduct job fairs in leading educational institutions including the University of the Philippines, University of Santo Tomas, and De La Salle University, among others, to attract “the best and the brightest” graduates. “The future of DPWH will be in the fresh blood that will be injected in this agency. We will implement many reforms, but the most important resource of any organization is the people—it will dictate if the DPWH will progress or regress,” he said. Dizon noted that the agency is spe-

cifically looking for “young, idealistic” engineers and accountants to replace those that have already been let go, and those who will be removed from their posts due to corruption allegations. The recruitment initiative comes as the agency grapples with a massive corruption scandal involving ghost flood control projects that has led to the filing of criminal and administrative cases against dozens of officials and employees. Dizon added that the recruitment drive is part of broader reforms following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to go after those responsible for anomalous projects while re-

covering stolen funds and implementing systemic changes. To date, 87 individuals have been recommended by the InterAgency Committee against Illegal Recruitment (ICI), DPWH, and the Department of Justice (DOJ) for charges including plunder, malversation, anti-graft, and bribery. These cases are now with the Office of the Ombudsman. Twenty-three individuals already have cases before the courts, including alleged mastermind Zaldy Co and contractor Sarah Discaya. Dizon said the Ombudsman will file two more cases before Christmas. “These are not just small fish,” he said. Within the DPWH, 90 individuals have been dismissed, suspended, or are facing ongoing administrative cases. Nine suspects have been arrested while seven remain at large. The government has also moved to recover stolen funds, with P110 million seized from Henry Alcantara and P40 million from Gerard Opulencia. Another P48 million in luxury vehicles have been sold at auction, while P13 billion in assets have been frozen through partnerships with the Insurance Commission, Anti-Money Laundering Council, and Philippine Competition Commission.

“If you ask me, this is still very low. They have to return more,” Dizon said. Beyond accountability measures, the DPWH has implemented reforms including a transparency portal and the lowering of material prices. All new projects under the recently approved 2025 budget will be included in the portal with updated prices within a month. Dizon acknowledged that reforms take time. “It’s not easy to do, there’s a process. It’s not overnight. This is only the beginning,” he said. The DPWH’s 2025 budget was set at P529 billion, 40 percent lower than the P818 billion originally proposed in the National Expenditure Program, with more than P20 billion removed during bicameral conference committee deliberations. “What’s important in the budget is it’s clean and it will be implemented correctly,” Dizon said, adding that the agency’s priority is to replicate its quick and proper response during recent typhoons and earthquakes while maintaining correct pricing. “We recently found out that we can be quick and proper; we implement projects at the right price; we can be fast; and we can do it correctly—that will be our mantra for 2026,” he said.

Planning…

investment programming, and program coordination under the 1987 Constitution,” the socioeconomic planning body noted, adding that its role expanded through participation in “numerous” interagency bodies. On April 10, 2025, the Economy, Planning, and Development Act (Republic Act No. 12145) transformed Neda into DEPDev with “strengthened institutional independence and an enhanced mandate as the Executive Branch’s primary policy, planning, coordinating, and monitoring arm for national economic development.” According to DEPDev, this ushered in a new era of long-term strategic and evidence-based policymaking. As such, Balisacan also emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration across sectors to ensure that development gains are “widely shared and resilient” over the long term. “By continuing to work together—across generations of public servants, across agencies and partners—we can help ensure that growth remains inclusive, resilient, and sustainable for all Filipinos,” the country’s chief economist said.

Continued from A1

development agenda across generations. The country’s chief economist said the 90th anniversary not only celebrates institutional history but also “reaffirms” the critical responsibility of planners in shaping the country’s future. Balisacan said development does not happen by chance. Instead, he pointed out that “It is the result of purposeful government action and coherent policies—grounded in data, shaped by consultation, and sustained across political cycles.” Tracing the roots of socioeconomic planning in the country to the National Economic Council (NEC), which was established on December 23,1935, DEPDev said over the decades, the NEC evolved into various reorganizations—including the Economic Planning Board (EPB) and later the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda)—which became the country’s primary socioeconomic planning body. “Neda carried out policy formulation, development planning,

RTGS…

Continued from A1

excluding weekends and national holidays—functioning as a central hub for the financial ecosystem by circulating liquidity and supporting both large-value and retail payment systems. If PhilPaSSplus were to operate for near-24/4, it would also support cross-border payments and offshore trade flows, increased settlement cycles for retail payments, synchronized settlement of capital market transactions and readiness for future innovations. However, it will also give rise to operational risks, as the system becomes more prone to technical failures and to delayed recovery. Cybersecurity threats are also amplified due to prolonged system exposure, while liquidity management becomes more complex across extended hours. Human errors and manpower constraints may likewise increase due to longer operating periods, the BSP added. To mitigate these risks, the BSP said it is allotting a 2-hour window daily for system maintenance and account reconciliation. “BSP will ensure sufficient staffing for the shifting schedules required for round-the-clock operations. A secondary site with a separate staff shall operate in another region to ensure continuity of operations in case of business disruptions,” the BSP added. The central bank’s regulations also require its supervised institutions to implement automated realtime fraud monitoring and detection systems to address evolving cyber threats and fraudulent patterns across digital channels. These systems must be integrated with anti-money laundering frameworks to ensure a cohesive financial crime prevention strategy. As several jurisdictions have adopted either 24/7 or near-24/7 RTGS operations, the BSP said that mirroring this approach would bolster the Philippines’ competitiveness. The BSP encouraged the Peso RTGS participants, including financial market infrastructures and clearing switch operators, to incorporate in their strategic plans how to optimize the benefits of an almost 24/7 PhilPaSSplus operations. “Transitioning PhilPaSSplus to near-24/7 operations positions the Philippines as one of the forwardlooking leaders in the payment systems field, enhancing funds flow velocity that translates to economic growth,” the BSP added.

Travelers… Continued from A12

succeeded in reducing corruption by enforcing transparency in major projects, responding quickly to red flags, and clearly assigning institutional responsibility. The Philippines can—and must—do the same,” the groups said. They also noted that statements

of concern are not enough, adding, “Now is the time to act. Business, professional and civil society groups should demand for urgent reforms to be implemented now to end the grim consequences of corruption whose magnitude has shocked the country.”

Despite continuing to be the highest spenders among international tourists, Chinese travelers are now picky: “[They] are still willing to spend, but they really expect to get value for their money. Destinations have increasingly been delivering that value with unique, local experiences rather than with shopping sprees,” said Parulis-Cook. China’s silver market (aged 50 and up) is now traveling more, due to their savings, more flexibility in travel dates and length of travel, and their “high expectations for comfort and quality.” These travelers accounted for about 20 percent of the country’s outbound market. Other trends include the continued use of the RedNote app (formerly Xiaohongshu) as travel inspiration, and the rising popularity of AI as a trip planner. Dragontail’s surveys showed “those who are optimistic about the technology rose from 5 percent to 37 percent, and the proportion of those who said AI had already helped them with travel doubled.”

Durian…

durian growing into a profitable venture, fetching a farm gate price of between P50 and P70 per kilo. Before the export agreement, Miculob said “we would be already happy with selling durian at farm gate price of P20 to P25, even as low as P10 during bountiful harvest.” Some places outside Mindanao

have also planted durian such as Dumaguete in Negros Oriental, in Mindoro and Laguna. “These are mostly for the local market, and not really that big, mainly because these are regularly visited by typhoons.” He said, he hoped the industry could compensate in the next harvest season but said “the changing weather is our main challenge.”

Biz groups pitch time-bound… Continued from A12

Continued from A12

Miculob said the big durian season is from August to November, and the small season from February to March. The China export has also turn

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Rising border row between Thailand, Cambodia affects 300 OFWs now, says DMW

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HE escalating border tension between Thailand and Cambodia has now affected over 300 Filipinos, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). In a press conference on Thursday, DMW Secretary Hans J. Cacdac said 259 of the affected Filipinos are teachers and non-teaching personnel in schools along the Thailand-Cambodia border. He said they have been evacuated to a safe location within Thailand, but are not expected to be repatriated for now. “So obviously, [if] the [tension] subsides or situation [in the border] improves, they may be able to go back to their respective teaching institutions... And of course, they are happy with their jobs,” Cacdac said. The evacuated Filipinos, who are now staying in evacuation centers or other Filipino citizens in safer ground, were given cash aid.

Cacdac said the Thailand-Cambodia border dispute has also affected 56 Filipinos, who were rescued from scam hubs. “So right now, they are the safe ground. But we are awaiting the safe repatriation of our Embassy in Yangon,” he said. The DMW chief said 22 of the Filipinos are scheduled to return to the country this week. Based on the latest data from DMW, the government registered 2,021 Filipinos, who became victims in scam hubs in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Lao PDR this year. The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia erupted again earlier this month after both parties after United States Donald Trump brokered a ceasefire between the two countries resulting to numerous casualties.

Samuel P. Medenilla

Friday, December 19, 2025

flags Sarah Discaya tops contractors CebuPac 3 passengers fraudulent with new court arrest warrants using credit cards RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos B Jr. announced a court has

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By Samuel P. Medenilla

@sam_medenilla

already issued arrest warrant for 10 individuals, including contractor Cezarah Rowena “Sarah” Discaya, who were linked to the P96.5-million ghost flood project in Davao Occidental. In a new video statement posted on his social media account last Thursday, the chief executive said the accused are now facing graft and malversation of public funds charges, “These cases are not bailable. They

cannot pay for their [provisional] release from the jail,” he said in Filipino. Discaya already surrendered to authorities earlier this month and is under the custody of the National Bureau of Investigation.

The President also reported that eight officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), who were also linked to flood control project anomalies, have expressed their willingness to surrender to authorities. He said the government will continue to go after those involved in flood control project irregularities as part of the anti-corruption campaign, which he initiated during his fourth State of the Nation Address last July. “This is just the beginning and we will continue to investigate and prosecute all those involved in the scandals we see in flood control projects,” Marcos said in Filipino. “We will ensure that not only will they be prosecuted, but the money [they stole] will be returned to the treasury of our country,” he added.

2 banks lend Aboitiz-led grp ₧70-B for CBK complex By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

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BOITIZ-LED Thunder Consortium has obtained bridge loan facilities totaling P70 billion from BDO Unibank Inc. and Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. (Metrobank)

to partially finance its acquisition of the Caliraya-Botocan-Kalayaan (CBK) hydroelectric power plant (HEPP) complex in Laguna. Aboitiz Power Corp. disclosed on Thursday that the consortium can draw up to P35 billion from each bank to fund the acquisition. The power plant complex is valued

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at around P36.2 billion. The Thunder Consortium comprises Aboitiz Renewables Inc., Sumitomo Corp., and Electric Power Development Co., Ltd. Located in the municipalities of Lumban, Majayjay, and Kalayaan in the province of Laguna, the CBK HEPPs are currently

operated under a 25-year BuildRehabilitate-Operate-Transfer Agreement with CBK Power Company Ltd., which is set to expire in February 2026. The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) approved the acquisition in October, clearing the way for the transaction.

These facilities are composed of the 39.37-MW Caliraya HEPP in Lumban, 22.91-MW Botocan HEPP in Majayjay, and 366MW Kalayaan I and 368.36-MW Kalayaan II pump storage power plants in Laguna. Turnover of the power plant is targeted for February 2026.

UDGET carrier Cebu Pacific said on Thursday three individuals were intercepted at Caticlan airport on Thursday for allegedly using fraudulent credit cards to book flights and unauthorized resale of travel funds through social media platforms. In a statement, Cebu Pacific said it is coordinating with the Police as the investigation continues. The suspects had traveled from Davao to Boracay and were scheduled to return to Davao when they were intercepted. The budget carrier did not disclose additional details about the individuals or the extent of the alleged fraud. Following the incident, Cebu Pacific issued a reminder to passengers to book flights only through its official website, mobile app, or accredited travel partners to ensure access to the airline’s guaranteed lowest fares and legitimate booking services. The airline warned passengers against transacting with unauthorized sellers, as this may result in invalid or incomplete bookings, additional charges, or disrupted travel plans. Customers who book through unauthorized channels and agents may face several issues, including receiving incomplete bookings due to incorrect fares, inability to check in online, and restrictions on rebooking, refunds, or adding baggage and meals, according to Cebu Pacific. The airline emphasized that only its official channels and affiliated travel agencies are authorized to sell genuine Cebu Pacific flights. Lorenz S. Marasigan

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Friday, December 19, 2025

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Govt to limit hiring of COS, JO starting ’26

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By Justine Xyrah Garcia

HE government will begin capping the number of contract of service (COS) and job order (JO) workers in all national agencies starting next year, following the issuance of a joint circular aimed at curbing what authorities described as “recurring concern” in the public sector.

Under Joint Circu lar 1, s. 2025, issued by the Civil Service Commission (CSC), Commission on Audit (COA), and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), gover nment agencies will no longer be a l lowed to increase t heir

COS and JO workforce beyond their existing headcount as of end-2025. “Under the circular, government agencies may continue hiring COS and JO workers but shall not exceed the number of COS and JO workers as of the end of 2025, effectively

placing a cap on contractual hiring to address recurring contractualization in the government,” CSC said in a statement on Thursday. The revised rules apply to all national government agencies ( N G A s), g o v e r n m e nt - o w n e d o r - c o nt r o l l e d c o r p o r at io n s (GOCCs) w it h or ig ina l c ha rters, state universities and colleges (SUCs), and constitutional bodies. The circular excludes local governments (LGUs) and COS and JO workers whose service payments are charged to engineering and administrative overhead expenses authorized under the General Appropriations Act. Data from the CSC show that as of June 30, the government employs 919,868 JO and COS workers nationwide, with 629,862 working as JOs and 290,006 engaged as COS personnel. More than half of these workers—650,571 individuals—are employed by LGUs.

Transitory period

THE circular allows agencies to continue engaging new COS and JO workers and renewing existing contracts only until December 31, 2025. After that date, agencies will be barred from expanding their contractual workforce, making the end-2025 figure the baseline for future engagements. To establish this baseline, all covered agencies are required to prepare an inventory of their COS and JO workers with valid contracts as of December 31, 2025. The inventory must be submitted to the COA, with copies furnished to the CSC and DBM, not later than January 31, 2026, the circular said. The circular also reiterated that COS hiring should be limited to consultants, learning service providers, and other technical experts tapped to undertake special projects or jobs within a specific period.

JO workers, meanwhile, may be hired only for emergency or intermittent work, such as clearing debris from roads, canals, and waterways after natural or man-made disasters, as well as for manual trades and crafts like carpentry, plumbing, painting, and electrical work that are not part of an agency’s regular functions. In all cases, COS and JO workers “should not, in any case, be made to perform functions which are part of the job description of the agency’s regular employees,” the circular stressed.

Plantilla posts

TO address long-standing concerns over contractualization, agencies are also encouraged to review their staffing patterns and consider the creation of permanent positions for regular functions. Qualified COS and JO workers may be considered for appointment to vacant plantilla positions,

subject to civil service rules, merit selection plans, and equal opportunity and non-discrimination policies. “Furthermore, agencies are encouraged to strengthen their selection and recruitment processes to keep a low vacancy rate and ensure a stable and well-functioning workforce,” the circular said. It also directed agencies to factor their existing COS and JO workforce into their optimization plans under Republic Act 12231 or the Government Optimization Act, particularly in positions to be created in line with agency mandates. Earlier this year, President Marcos signed RA 12231 granting Malacañang the authority to “optimize” operations of government offices under the Executive branch—this includes strengthening, scaling down, phasing out, transferring, or integrating government functions in pursuit of efficiency.

Rice imports decrease by 23 percent DA flags 32 retail By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia

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HE country’s rice arrivals fell by nearly 23 percent to 3.34 million metric tons (MMT) through November OWING to the temporary import freeze. Data from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) showed that rice imports slid by 22.82 percent to 3.34 MMT in the January to November from the 4.33 MMT recorded in the same period last year. Of this, only an average of 133,555 metric tons (MT) of rice entered the country since the import ban started, the highest

posted at 331,606 MT in September, from the average 367,218 MT in the previous months. Vietnam maintained its position as the Philippines top rice supplier, accounting for 2.7 MMT. This was followed by Myanmar at 343,910.33 MT. Other rice stocks came from Thailand (176,270.26 MT), Pakistan (76,448.02 MT), and India (20,528.38 MT). President Marcos has extended the validity of the rice import ban until the end 2025 in a bid to arrest the slide in farmgate prices of palay. He initially suspended the rice shipments for 60 days from

September 1 until October 31, covering only regular and wellmilled rice. Special varieties, including Japonica, glutinous, and basmati rice are exempt from the import freeze. With the four-month ban set to end in January 2026, the Department of Agriculture (DA) recently announced the government’s decision to raise rice tariffs to 20 percent from the current 15 percent. Adjustments to rice duties would be 5 percentage points per 5 percent change in international prices, subject to a minimum rate of 15 percent and a maximum rate of 35 percent, according to the Department of Economy, Planning,

and Development (DEPDev). The increase in tariffs will coincide with the DA’s bid to limit the entry of foreign rice shipments, which pulled down farmgate prices. As such, the agency allocated only 450,000 MT of imports for next month. Such a move had been agreed upon with stakeholders. An additional 50,000 MT will be reserved for government agencies, which said would be triggered when deemed necessary. For 2025, the BPI expects total rice arrivals to reach 3.5 MMT, down from the 4.81 MMT posted last year, owing to the temporary import ban.

Legislator tells housing agency to include funds for residential land acquisition in annual budget By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

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LEGISLATOR has called on the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to include funding for the acquisition of residential land in its annual budget to ensure the on-site, in-city, or near-city relocation of squatters or informal settlers. Parañaque Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan suggested that the DHSUD incorporate this provision in its proposed budget for 2027. “In the next budget call, I think they should focus on the acquisition of land. This should be a priority and the agency should look into it. If the DHSUD acquires land

for informal settler families [ISF] in areas that they can consider their habitat, it would be beneficial both for informal settlers and the government,” said Yamsuan during the deliberations of the bicameral conference committee on the proposed budget of the DHSUD for 2026. Yamsuan said transferring informal settlers to housing areas far away from their means of livelihood have only forced them to return to their original settlements and the same blighted conditions that they endure, owing to the lack of economic opportunities, and at times, even access to basic services in their relocation sites. “In reality, this is what really

happens. We transfer them to far-flung housing sites, then they would just sell their units, or allow their relatives to live there while they return to where they used to live. So we do not solve the problem,” said Yamsuan, a member of the House contingent to the bicameral conference committee. Yamsuan cited as an example the squatters in his home city of Parañaque and neighboring areas who were relocated to Naic, Cavite, to make way for the LRT-1 Extension Project. “Many of the affected families who initially accepted housing units in Naic eventually returned to their original communities due to the lack of viable livelihood opportunities in the relocation site,”

Yamsuan said. He said the relocation of ISFs to Naic has also affected the delivery of basic services in the area. According to the Department of Education, around 1,800 public school students in Naic have been compelled to attend classes in makeshift classrooms as local schools struggle to accommodate a 900 percent surge in enrollment resulting from the said relocation. Yamsuan has filed House Bill (HB) 5575 which aims to solve this lingering problem involving squatters and operationalize the provisions of Republic Act (RA) 7279 or the Urban Development and Housing Act. See “DHSUD,” A5

pork, onion stores for violating MSRP

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HE Department of Agriculture (DA) on Thursday issued show-cause orders to 32 retail stalls selling pork and onion for exceeding the government-set price ceilings. With the DA intensifying its surveillance of food prices and monitoring of wet markets, it led a joint price and supply inspection at the Muñoz Public Market alongside the Quezon City government, Food Terminal Inc. (FTI), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the National Police (PNP). During the inspection, authorities issued show-cause orders to 12 onion stalls found selling above the maximum suggested retail price (MSRP). The DA has pegged the cap at P150 per kilo for red onions and P120 per kilo for white onions. Despite this, the agency said retail prices remained elevated at P200 per kilo, although sharply lower than the levels in recent days. In addition, the department also issued show-cause orders to 20 pork stalls for selling beyond the MSRPs of P370 per kilo for liempo and P330 per kilo for kasim and pigue. For Agriculture Assistant Secretary Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra, continuous market monitoring is crucial, especially during the holiday season when demand for basic food commodities surges.

“We will not hesitate to take action against sellers who violate the established MSRP,” Guevarra said. “The show-cause orders give them the opportunity to explain, but at the same time, this sends a clear message that overpricing will not be tolerated,” she added. Guevarra said monitoring will remain continuous and be further stepped up, reinforcing the agency’s aim to stabilize prices, secure sufficient food supply, and strictly enforce price rules to protect consumers. “Continuous price and supply monitoring is important, especially with Christmas approaching. This ensures that supply is sufficient, prices are fair, and our consumers are not exploited during periods of higher demand.” For his part, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the DA will further ramp up price monitoring as Christmas approaches, vowing to keep retailers in line and consumers protected. “There will be no letup in our campaign for fair food prices— even, and especially, during the holidays,” he said. Latest government price monitoring report showed that the prevailing price of red onion reached P250 per kilo, while imported white onion stood at P140 per kilo The prevailing retail price of local pork ham and pork belly settled at P355 per kilo and P370 per kilo, respectively. Ada Pelonia

Senator pushes creation of Agriculture Commission By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

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EN. Francis Pangilinan called on senators to pass Senate Bill 1624, which creates the Congressional Commission on Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Security (Agricom) to address the pervasive threats to the agriculture sector and national food security. In a sponsorship speech delivered on Wednesday, he urged senators to pass his proposed measure that will create the Agricom in a bid “to finally confront what is broken in our agriculture and fisheries

sector and fix it, before the costs grow even higher and the hunger affects even more.” “We have long put side vital reforms. We can no longer wait. Now is the time to act,” Pangilinan said. “Let us set up the agri and fisheries food security commission. Let us not waste this opportunity,” he said, partly in Filipino. In creating the commission, he clarified that it would not be a permanent bureaucracy; rather, it is a three-year intervention designed to seek concrete and targeted reforms “that the government is politically bound to act on.”

Senate Bill 1624 will harmonize the policies and programs of the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Cooperatives Development Authority (CDA), and other government agencies in charge of agriculture as it seeks to marry the overlapping mandates of these agencies. The commission will also, among other things, “restructure and streamline agriculture and fisheriesrelated bureaucracies to address their institutional weaknesses and shortcomings, including the relationship

between and among national, provincial, and local stakeholders in order to effectively implement agriculture and fisheries policies and programs, including the transfer of information and technology, particularly at the grassroots level.” Pangilinan said the Agricom seeks to identify the challenges in the entire food system—supply chain, laws, mandates, formation, climate risks, and the experiences of farmers, fishers, traders, middlemen, consumers, wholesalers, and retailers. See “Agricom,” A5

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Friday, December 19, 2025

‘Ombudsman to decide on Romualdez fate, not press conference soundbites’ By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

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HE camp of former Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has rejected attempts to link him to plunder and other serious offenses, stressing that the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) itself clarified that its referral to the Office of the Ombudsman was “issued without finding or conclusion of guilt or liability.” In a statement, Ade Fajardo, lawyer and spokesperson for Romualdez, cautioned against misinterpreting recent remarks attributed to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), saying these should not be taken as proof of any wrongdoing. The DPWH has recommended the filing of cases against 87 individuals allegedly linked to the f lood control scandal, among them Romualdez and former Rep. Elizady Co of the party-list group Ako Bicol. “We take note of the DPWH Secretary’s statement. However, it is important to clarify that a DPWH ‘recommendation’ is not a finding, much less a determination

of guilt,” Fajardo said. Fajardo categorically denied reports claiming that the ICI had recommended the filing of plunder or other serious charges against the former Speaker. “It is not true that the ICI has recommended to the Ombudsman that former Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez be charged with plunder or other serious crimes related to the flood control or 2025 budget issue,” Fajardo said. On the contrary, he pointed out that the ICI itself underscored the absence of any adverse conclusion against Romualdez in its referral to the Office of the Ombudsman. “In fact, the ICI made it clear in their referral report that it was ‘issued without finding or conclusion of guilt or liability on the part of former Speaker Romualdez,’” he added. Fajardo said Romualdez respects institutional processes and is confident that the Ombudsman will assess the matter independently and fairly. “We respect due process and will await the Ombudsman to independently evaluate the submissions based on evidence, not press conference soundbites,” he said.

Remulla statement on Ang a ‘death sentence’–lawyer

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HE camp of businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang on Thursday assailed Interior Secretary Juan Victor Remulla’s announcement of Ang’s impending arrest in connection with the missing sabungeros case. A ng’s law yer Gabriel Villareal branded Remulla’s statement as “reckless and irresponsible” that “could put A ng’s life in danger.” Villareal was referring to Remulla’s statement in a recently published news report that Ang was “armed and dangerous” and that the manner of his arrest would therefore be different. Villareal likened Remulla’s remark to a shoot-on-sight or an outright “shoot to kill” order against Ang. The lawyer pointed out that as of yesterday no warrant has been issued against the buainessman. “Such a statement is uncalled for, unless it is meant to pressure the courts to move in accordance with the government’s plan against my client,” he said. Last week, Ang and 21 police

DHSUD. . . Continued from A4

The bill aims to establish a comprehensive and people - centered framework for government resettlement programs that prioritizes on-site, in-city, and nearcity relocation, while making off-city resettlement a measure of last resort. “Under this approach, ISFs are no longer treated merely as beneficiaries of housing projects, but as active partners in managing the communities they will later call home,”

Agricom. . . Continued from A4

A development paths with measurable targets: higher yields, higher incomes, better infrastructure, stronger market access, and real climate resilience. Ang mahalaga, hindi matatapos sa mga plano ang trabaho,” he added. “It will recommend specific laws,

officers were indicted by the Department of Justice on charges of homicide, kidnapping, and illegal detention in connection with the disappearance of dozens of cockfighting enthusiasts. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has yet to formally file a case before the court against Ang and his co-respondents as the resolution of the panel of prosecutors is still under review. Villareal said Ang has remained in the country and has consistently cooperated with authorities since the start of the investigation. “If this is not proof of Mr. Ang’s sincerity in submitting to the processes of law, then we do not know what is,” Villareal said. The lawyer added that Remulla’s remarks, along with previous actions by investigators and state prosecutors, indicate that Ang has already been prejudged. “If something happens to Mr. Ang, responsibility will rest with those who made these statements. This has the makings of tokhang all over again,” he said. Yamsuan said. The bill, which amends certain provisions of RA 7279, also ensures the participation of informal settler-beneficiaries in the drafting of the plan to resettle them to guarantee adequate social preparation and safeguards for them against forced evictions. “These provisions institutionalize humane relocation practices and show the government’s commitment to uphold the dignity of all citizens, especially the most vulnerable, such as the ISFs,” Yamsuan said. budget priorities, [and] institutional reforms—and report regularly to Congress on what must be done,” he added. The senator, who chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and A g r a r i a n R e f o r m a s s u re d t h a t t h e Agricom will put farmers, fisher folk, consumers, indigenous communities, agribusiness practitioners, and other beneficiaries at the center of agricultural reforms.

A5

Lacson hopes vigilance vs budget abuse will bring positive change By Butch Fernandez

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@butchfBM

ROM skeptic to believer. Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo M. Lacson, who earlier gave notice he may not vote to ratify the bicameral conference committee report on the 2026 budget if items that partake of pork barrel are included, on Thursday had a more optimistic view of the budget outcome.

With safeguards among others in place and with continued public vigilance, Lacson said he holds high hopes that the 2026 budget

will help bring positive change for Filipinos. Lacson lauded the Senate panel in the bicameral conference

committee led by Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, Committee on Finance chairman, for fighting for the safeguards and transparency measures the Senate has inserted. “Amid all the disinformation and unreasonable criticisms, we have all the reasons to be proud of our Senate panel under the leadership of our Finance chairman Senator Win. I give my two thumbs up from start to finish,” Lacson said. “We do not live in a perfect world, much less in an ideal situation, so we cannot be perfectionists and idealistic given the circumstances. That’s why adjustments must be made both ways,” he added. Among the safeguards the Senate put in place were: n Absolutely no guarantee letters allowed and any form of “epal” for all “ayudas”;

Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (Maifip) should be implemented strictly under the auspices of Universal Health Care program and in pursuit of complying with the Universal Health Care Law; n Monthly oversight on infrastructure and farm to marker road projects implementation, complete with grid coordinates for easy monitoring by the media and the public Lacson also reiterated his call to the public to join him and likeminded lawmakers in remaining vigilant against abuses of public funds, even after the budget is ratified by the Congress and signed into law by the President. “As long as we all remain vigilant in guarding against abuse of public funds, we can always remain hopeful that things can change for the better,” he said.

‘Chinese aggression at WPS well documented’

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H E Ph i l ip pi ne s i s not exaggerating reports of repeated Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea, as the incidents are well documented, the Department of Nationa l Defense spokesperson said on Thursday. “The Philippines is not hyping the issue, the facts speak for themselves. These are aggressive, excessive, and dangerous actions of an encroaching state,” the DND spokesperson, Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong, said in a statement. “No amount of rhetorical reframing changes the reality that ordinary fishermen were harmed while fishing lawfully within the Philippines’ exclusive economic

ASSISTANT Secretary Arsenio Andolong, spokesman for the Department of National Defense. FILE PHOTO

zone, and that the CCG [Chinese Coast Guard] deliberately d i sr upted ou r hu m a n it a r i a n efforts.”

Andolong was reacting to a statement from China’s defense ministry accusing Manila of distorting details regarding the December 12 incident in Escoda Shoal (also known as Sabina Shoal) in the West Philippine Sea, where three Filipino fishermen were hurt following water cannoning and other harassment. “The facts are not distorted. T hey are documented, t imestamped, and corroborated by video recordings, vessel logs, and on-site reporting by the Philippine Coast Guard,” he added. The latest incident also included blocking maneuvers and cutting of anchor lines, damaging the fishing boats of the fishermen. “We will not be intimidated

from benefiting from our resources by China’s constant bullying, prevarication, or so-called effective measures. What truly threatens peace is the persistent, unsafe behavior that endangers civilians and demonizes any form of resistance against an abusive neighbor,” Andolong said. He added that the CCG publicly admitted implementing “control measures” which confirms their interference with civilian fishing boats and PCG vessels providing aid to injured civilians. The Philippines will continue to protect its people, uphold international law, and assert its rights calmly, professionally, and transparently, Andolong said. Rex Anthony Naval

Military brass told: Defend country with honor, courage

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RESIDENT Marcos on Thursday called on the newly promoted generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces (AFP) to lead with integrity and humility while defending the country with honor and courage. “We are reminded today that this oath-taking is a reaffirmation of a sacred trust, the respect for the Constitution, service to the Filipino people, and loyalty to the Republic,” Marcos said during the mass oathtaking of newly promoted AFP generals and flag officers and graduates of the foreign Pre-Commissioned

Training Institutions at Malacañan Palace. Marcos urged the AFP officers to fulfill their obligations to protect the country’s sovereignty, uphold national security, and safeguard the freedom of every Filipino. He said their promotion affirms that the AFP’s loyalty is anchored to the Constitution, democratic institutions, and the Filipino people. He noted that in recent months, the government has undertaken steps to ensure that the AFP “remains a model of discipline, competence, and service.”

“As you open another chapter, you also accept greater responsibility to lead with wisdom, restraint, and moral clarity. Your promotion reflects a nation’s confidence in your integrity and professionalism, your dedication to duty,” Marcos said. “May you always wear the stars on your shoulders as daily reminders of your duty to lead with integrity, to serve with humility, and, if necessary, fight for the Republic with honor and courage,” he added. Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s continued support for the

AFP, citing its unwavering commitment to modernize the armed forces to boost defense capabilities and morale. He also cited his recent decision to raise the base pay and daily subsistence allowance of military and uniformed personnel in recognition of their efforts to address existing and emerging security challenges. The President expressed optimism that the military would join his administration in building a “stronger, more secure Bagong Pilipinas [New Philippines].” PNA

₧8B for Elcac in 2026 national budget for barangay development

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HE National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Thursday denied claims that the proposed P8.08-billion allocation related to ending the communist insurgency constitutes a discretionary “NTF-ELCAC fund.” Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr., NTF-ELCAC executive director, in a statement, said such claim is “inaccurate and misleading.” The amount cited refers to the Barangay Development Program (BDP)—a multiagency development intervention implemented

by regular line agencies of government, and not the NTFELCAC itself. “The P8.08 billion is not an NTF-ELCAC fund in the way it is being portrayed. It is not a discretionary pool, not a patronage fund, and not an ‘ayuda’ dispensed in exchange for compliance or silence,” Torres said. Although he welcomed the scrutiny raised by Caritas Philippines and the Episcopal Commission on Social Action, Justice and Peace, he said statements need accuracy and context when discussing the nature and purpose of the funds. The BDP is implemented

by agencies such as the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Health, and the Department of Education, he said. NTF-ELCAC’S role, Torres said, is to coordinate and integrate—not operational and does not involve handling or disbursing funds. “To conflate BDP allocations with an ‘NTFELCAC budget’ is to misunderstand both the structure of government and the nature of the program,” he said.

He said communities were left for years without basic roads, schools, clinics, water systems, electricity, or livelihood support, creating conditions that allowed the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s ArmyNational Democratic Front and the armed insurgency to entrench themselves. Torres added that BDP projects are bottom-up and community-driven, with barangays identifying their needs, local development councils endorsing them, and local government units validating and implementing the projects. PNA

A6 Friday, December 19, 2025

The World BusinessMirror

Editor: Angel R. Calso

Russia is trying to overwhelm Europe with its sabotage campaign, Western officials say By Emma Burrows

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The European official said the man accused of coordinating a plot to put explosives in packages on cargo planes, for example, was recruited by Russian intelligence after involvement with smuggling guns and explosives. The man is linked to at least four other plots. Other people are recruited from European prisons or soon after they’re released, the Baltic official said. In one case, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, dedicated to the Soviet Union’s occupation of the country, was set on fire by someone released from prison the previous month.

AP European Security Correspondent

N November, a train carrying almost 500 people came to a sudden halt in eastern Poland. A broken overhead line had smashed several windows, and the track ahead was damaged. Elsewhere on the line, explosives detonated under a passing freight train. No one was hurt in either case and the damage was limited, but Poland, which blamed the attack on Russia’s intelligence services, responded forcefully: It deployed 10,000 troops to protect critical infrastructure. The sabotage in Poland is one of 145 incidents in an Associated Press database that Western officials say are part of a campaign of disruption across Europe masterminded by Russia. Officials say the campaign—waged since President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022—aims to deprive Kyiv of support, create divisions among Europeans and identify the continent’s security weak spots. So far in this hybrid war, most known acts of sabotage have resulted in minimal damage—nothing compared to the tens of thousands of lives lost and cities decimated across Ukraine. But officials say each act—from vandalism of monuments to cyberattacks to warehouse fires—sucks up valuable security resources. The head of one large European intelligence service said investigations into Russian interference now swallow up as much of the agency’s time as terrorism. While the campaign places a heavy burden on European security services, it costs Russia next to nothing, offi-

cials say. That’s because Moscow is carrying out cross-border operations that require European countries to cooperate extensively on investigations—while often using foreigners with criminal backgrounds as cheap proxies for Russian intelligence operatives. That means Moscow notches up a win just by tying up resources—even when plots aren’t successful. “It’s a 24/7 operation between all the services to stop it,” said a senior European intelligence official, who like the head of the European intelligence service and other officials who spoke to AP insisted on anonymity to discuss sensitive security matters. Over the course of the year, AP spoke to more than 40 European and NATO officials from 13 countries to document the scope of this hybrid war, including incidents on its map only when linked by Western officials to Russia, its proxies or its ally Belarus. Putin’s spokesman Dmitry Peskov told AP that Russia doesn’t have “any connection” with the campaign.

AP’s map tracking Russian sabotage and disruption AP’S database shows a spike in arson and explosives plots from one in 2023 to 26 in 2024. Six have been documented so far in 2025. Three

Greater strain, greater cooperation

THIS 2024 handout photo provided by the Metropolitan Police shows damage to a warehouse in east London that was storing goods for Ukraine, after a fire that prosecutors said was organized on behalf of Russia’s intelligence services. LONDON METROPOLITAN POLICE VIA AP vandalism cases were recorded last year, meanwhile, and one this year. The data is incomplete since not all incidents are made public, and it can take officials months to establish a link to Moscow. But the spike matches what officials have warned: The campaign is growing more dangerous. The countries most frequently targeted, according to the map, border Russia: Poland and Estonia. Several incidents have also occurred in Latvia, the U.K., Germany and France. All are major supporters of Ukraine. The European official, a senior Baltic intelligence official and another intelligence official said the campaign noticeably calmed in late 2024 and early this year. Their analysis showed Moscow likely paused the campaign to curry favor with US President Donald Trump’s new administration. It has since resumed at full pace.

“They are back to business,” the European official said.

Multi-country plots drain resources THE man officials say was behind the attack on the Polish railway that carries supplies to Ukraine is Yevgeny Ivanov—a Ukrainian convicted of working with Russian military intelligence to plot arson attacks at home improvement stores, a cafe and a drone factory in Ukraine, according to court documents. Ivanov, who left Poland after the attack there, worked for Yury Sizov, an officer from Russia’s GRU military intelligence service, according to Ukraine’s security service. Ivanov was convicted in absentia in Ukraine but managed to enter Poland because Ukraine did not inform Polish officials of his conviction, Polish

Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński said. Ukraine’s security service said it closely cooperates with allies. Staging plots that involve perpetrators from several countries or who have crossed borders drains investigatory resources from multiple authorities across Europe—one of Moscow’s key goals, according to Estonian State Prosecutor Triinu Olev-Aas. Over the last year, she said the profile of attackers in Estonia has changed from locals largely known to law enforcement to unknown foreigners. That requires increased cooperation among countries to disrupt plots or detain perpetrators. For two attacks in January—fires set at a supermarket and a Ukrainian restaurant—the people hired had never been to Estonia before, OlevAas said. At the restaurant, a Moldovan man smashed a window, threw in a can of gasoline and set it alight. Video showed his arm on fire as he ran away. The man and his accomplice fled through Latvia, Lithuania and Poland before being caught in Italy.

Turning to criminals WHILE Russian intelligence officers might be the masterminds of such operations, they frequently rely on recruiters—often with convictions or criminal connections—who assign tasks to saboteurs on the ground, the Baltic official said. Outsourcing to people with criminal backgrounds, like Ivanov, means Russia doesn’t have to risk highly trained intelligence operatives— agents Moscow often doesn’t have recourse to anyway since European countries kicked out scores of spies as relations nosedived in recent years. Russian criminal networks offer a ready-made alternative, the Baltic official said.

EVEN plots that are foiled are a win for Moscow because they test defenses and waste resources. In 2024, a Ukrainian man, working on the orders of Russian military intelligence, dug up a cache of items buried in a cemetery in Lithuania, including drone parts and cans of corn filled with explosives. Officials believe the plan was to rig the drones with the explosives. The plot was eventually foiled—but not before considerable resources were used to track down everyone involved, said Jacek Dobrzyński, the spokesperson for Poland’s security minister. The sheer number of plots is overstretching some law enforcement agencies, but Moscow’s campaign has also fostered greater cooperation, the European official said. Prosecutors in Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia have created joint investigation teams for attacks organized by foreign intelligence services, said Mārtiņš Jansons, a special prosecutor in Latvia. In the UK, front-line police officers are being trained to spot suspicious incidents that may be state-backed, said Cmdr. Dominic Murphy, head of the counterterrorism squad at the Metropolitan Police. He noted a tra inee detect ive flagged an arson attack at a warehouse in London after realizing the business was owned by Ukrainians and contained communications devices used by the military. Police determined the attack was organized by Russian intelligence. But officials warn Russia is continually testing new methods. Smugglers in Russia’s ally Belarus have sent hundreds of weather balloons carrying cigarettes into Lithuania and Poland, repeatedly forcing the Lithuanian capital’s airport to shut in what authorities called a hybrid attack. “Nowadays they only carry cigarettes,” Dobrzyński warned, “but in future they could carry other things.” Associated Press writers John Leicester in Paris, Claudia Ciobanu in Warsaw, Poland, and Volodymyr Yurchuk in Kyiv, Ukraine, contributed.

The World BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Friday, December 19, 2025 A7

EU leaders gather to discuss a massive loan to Ukraine

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RUSSELS—European Union leaders are gathering Thursday for a summit aimed at agreeing on a massive loan to cover Ukraine’s military and other financial needs for the next two years.

The leaders will also discuss migration, the bloc’s enlargement policy, trade and economies, but working out how to fund most of the 137 billion euros ($160 billion) the International Monetary Fund says war-ravaged Ukraine needs is top priority. “It is up to us to choose how we fund Ukraine’s fight. We know the urgency. It is acute. We all feel it. We all see it,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told EU lawmakers on the eve of the summit. European Council President António Costa, who is chairing Thursday’s meeting in Brussels, has vowed to keep leaders negotiating until an agreement is reached, even if it takes days. Many leaders will press for tens of billions of euros in frozen Russian assets held in Europe to be used to meet

Ukraine’s economic and military needs. Such a decision has never been made before, and it comes with risks. The European Central Bank has warned that if Europeans appear willing to grab other countries’ money, it could undermine confidence in the euro. Some member nations are also concerned about inviting retaliation from Russia. Belgium, where most of the frozen assets are held at a financial clearing house, is the main opponent of the plan. It fears that Russia will strike back and would prefer that the bloc borrow the money on international markets. Last week, the Russian Central Bank sued the Belgian clearing house Euroclear in a Moscow court, raising pressure on Belgium and its European partners ahead of the summit. Hungary and Slovakia oppose von

A VIEW of the headquarters of Euroclear in Brussels, on Oct. 23, 2025. AP PHOTO/GEERT VANDEN WIJNGAERT der Leyen’s plan for a “reparations loan.” Some 90 billion euros ($105 billion) would be lent to Ukraine until Russia ends its war and pays for the damage it has caused over almost four years. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says that totals more than 600 billion euros ($700 billion). The UK, Canada and Norway would fill the gap beyond the 90 billion eu-

ros ($105 billion). Bulgaria, Italy and Malta also remain to be convinced. In recent weeks, EU envoys have worked to flesh out the details and narrow differences among the 27 member countries. If enough countries object, the plan could be blocked. There is no majority support for a plan B of raising the funds on international markets.

Residents frustrated as Indian Senate passes $901 billion defense bill officials downplay air quality crisis that pushes Hegseth for boat strike video amid toxic smog in New Delhi By Stephen Groves

By Sibi Arasu & Rishi Lekhi The Associated Press

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EW DELHI—Recent remarks about pollution from two Indian officials have increased frustration among residents who say policymakers are unwilling to acknowledge the severity of India’s air quality crisis. When Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav told Parliament earlier this month that India’s capital, New Delhi, has seen 200 days with good air quality readings, pollution experts and opposition leaders said he chose a figure that overlooked the worst pollution months. A week later, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the air quality index—a measure of air pollution—was similar to a temperature reading and could be dealt with by spraying water. Crowds jeered her at a subsequent public event, shouting “AQI” in reference to the city’s poor air quality readings. Gupta had also greenlit a controversial cloud seeding program earlier this year, saying it could produce rain that would lower pollution—despite lack of evidence that the approach would work. Residents in New Delhi and surrounding areas engulfed in toxic smog over the last few months said these are just the latest examples of officials denying the severity of air quality problems. “Instead of doing cloud seeding, I hope the government will wake up and take some real action,” said Anita, a 73-year-old New Delhi resident who goes by only one name. “It’s a shame.” Environmentalists and data experts said India’s air quality measurement standards are looser than in countries such as the United States, so moderate readings often mask dangerous pollution levels. India’s government air quality standards are also less stringent than World Health Organization guidelines. Experts said these gaps can erode public trust, even as few residents fully grasp how harmful polluted air is.

Gaps in India’s air quality data INDIA’S air quality is measured through a nationwide network of monitors and sensors, as well as satellite data. The monitors collect robust data, but there are too few of them, said Ronak Sutaria, CEO of Respirer Living, which builds machines and software for air quality monitoring. He said that the system falls short of letting citizens know how polluted the air in their neighborhoods really is. In 2019, India launched the National Clean Air Program, which set targets aiming to reduce pollution by up to 40%

The Associated Press

in 131 cities by 2026. The program has seen relative success, providing millions of dollars for monitors and water-spraying machines to reduce dust generated from vehicles plying the roads, construction activity and winds that blow desert sand into the cities. However, air pollution experts said the program has done little to reduce pollution from carbon-spewing industries or vehicle emissions, which are among the biggest sources of dirty air. Other sources include the burning of crop stubble on farms, use of wood and cow dung as cooking fuel and burning of garbage. A 2024 report by the Centre for Science and Environment, a New Delhibased think tank, found that 64% of funds under the program went toward reducing dust and only 12% to reducing pollution from vehicles and less than 1% to bringing down industrial air pollution. “We are making huge investments in air quality monitoring. And so when we are expanding, then it also becomes an imperative that we should be focusing on the quality,” said Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director at the think tank.

A public health emergency A STUDY last year by the medical journal Lancet linked long-term exposure to polluted air to 1.5 million additional deaths every year in India, compared to a scenario where the country would have met WHO standards. Yet earlier this month, Prataprao Jadhav, India’s junior health minister, said there is no conclusive data available in the country to establish a direct correlation of death or disease exclusively to air pollution. Shweta Narayan, a campaign lead at the Global Climate and Health Alliance, said that air pollution is still not taken seriously as a public health issue. “Deaths related to air pollution are not being counted. And the reason why it’s not being counted is because there are no systematic mechanisms to do so,” Narayan said. Narayan said pollution causes longterm health problems for everyone exposed, but that it’s especially bad for pregnant women, the elderly and children. “As a consequence of exposure to air pollution, we see a lot of preterm births, miscarriages, low birth weight. Exposure at this stage has a lifelong consequence,” she said. Arasu reported from Bengaluru, India. AP journalists Piyush Nagpal in New Delhi and Aniruddha Ghosal in Hanoi, Vietnam, contributed to this report.

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ASHINGTON—The Senate gave final passage Wednesday to an annual military policy bill that will authorize $901 billion in defense programs while pressuring Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to provide lawmakers with video of strikes on alleged drug boats in international water near Venezuela. The annual National Defense Authorization Act, which raises troop pay by 3.8%, gained bipartisan backing as it moved through Congress. It passed the Senate on a 77-20 vote before lawmakers planned to leave Washington for a holiday break. Two Republicans—Sens. Rand Paul and Mike Lee—and 18 Democrats voted against the bill. The White House has indicated that it is in line with President Donald Trump’s national security priorities. However, the legislation, which ran over 3,000 pages, revealed some points of friction between Congress and the Pentagon as the Trump administration reorients its focus away from security in Europe and toward Central and South America. The bill pushes back on recent moves by the Pentagon. It demands more information on boat strikes in the Caribbean, requires that the US keep its troop levels in Europe at current levels and sends some military aid to Ukraine. But overall, the bill represents a compromise between the parties. It implements many of Trump’s executive orders and proposals on eliminating diversity and inclusion efforts in the military and grants emergency military powers at the US border with Mexico. It also enhances congressional oversight of the Department of Defense, repeals several years-old war authorizations and seeks to overhaul how the Pentagon purchases weapons as the US tries to outpace China in developing the next generation of military technology. “We’re about to pass, and the president will enthusiastically sign, the most sweeping upgrades to DoD’s business practices in 60 years,” said Sen. Roger Wicker, the Republican chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Still, the sprawling bill did face objections from both Democratic and Republican leadership on the Senate Commerce Committee and the head of the National Transportation Safety Board. That’s because the legislation could allow military aircraft to obtain a waiver to operate without broadcasting their precise location, as an Army helicopter had done before a midair collision with an airliner over Washington, D.C., in January that killed 67 people. To address those concerns, the Senate advanced a bill to require all military and civilian aircraft to broadcast their locations. Republican Sen. Ted Cruz, the chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, said the tragedy might have been avoided had the Black Hawk been broadcasting its location before the crash. That bill will now go to the House, and Cruz said he’s optimistic it could reach the president’s desk as soon as next month. The White House supports the bill and is committed to helping get it passed, said an official who spoke on condition of anonymity ahead

of the formal public statement on the bill.

Boat strike videos

REPUBLICANS and Democrats agreed to language in the defense bill that threatened to withhold a quarter of Hegseth’s travel budget until he provided unedited video of the strikes, as well as the orders authorizing them, to the House and Senate Committees on Armed Services. Hegseth was on Capitol Hill Tuesday ahead of the bill’s passage to brief lawmakers on the US military campaign in international water near Venezuela. The briefing elicited contrasting responses from many lawmakers, with Republicans largely backing the campaign and Democrats expressing concern about it and saying they had not received enough information. The committees are investigating a Sept. 2 strike—the first of the campaign—that killed two people who had survived an initial attack on their boat. The Navy admiral who ordered the “double-tap” strike, Adm. Frank “Mitch” Bradley, also appeared before the committees shortly before the vote Wednesday in a classified briefing that also included video of the strike in question. Several Republican senators emerged from the meeting backing Hegseth and his decision not to release the video publicly, but other GOP lawmakers stayed silent on their opinion of the strike. Democrats are calling for part of the video to be released publicly and for every member of Congress to have access to the full footage. “The American people absolutely need to see this video,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat. “I think they would be shocked.”

Congressional oversight

LAWMAKERS have been caught by surprise by the Trump administration several times in the last year, including by a move to pause intelligence sharing with Ukraine and a decision to reduce US troop presence in NATO countries in eastern Europe. The defense legislation requires that Congress be kept in the loop on decisions like that going forward, as well as when top military brass are removed. The Pentagon is also required, under the legislation, to keep at least 76,000 troops and major equipment stationed in Europe unless NATO allies are consulted and there is a determination that such a withdrawal is in US interests. See “Senate,” A8

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A8 Friday, December 19, 2025

Senate...

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Around 80,000 to 100,000 US troops are usually present on European soil. A similar requirement also keeps the number of US troops stationed in South Korea at 28,500. Lawmakers are also pushing back on some Pentagon decisions by authorizing $400 million for each of the next two years to manufacture weapons to be sent to Ukraine.

Cuts to diversity and climate initiatives

TRUMP and Hegseth have made it a priority to purge the military of material and programs that address diversity, anti-racism or gender issues, and the defense bill would codify many of those changes. It will repeal diversity, equity and inclusion offices and trainings, including the position of chief diversity officer. Those cuts would save the Pentagon about $40 million, according to the Republican-controlled House Armed Services Committee. The US military has long found that climate change is a threat to how it provides national security because weather-related disasters can destroy military bases and equipment. But the bill makes $1.6 billion in cuts by eliminating climate-change related programs at the Pentagon.

Repeal of war authorizations and Syria sanctions

CONGRESS is writing a closing chapter to the war in Iraq by repealing the authorization for the 2003 invasion. Now that Iraq is a strategic partner of the US, lawmakers in support of the provision say the repeal is crucial to prevent future abuses. The bill also repeals the 1991 authorization that sanctioned the US-led Gulf War. The rare, bipartisan moves to repeal the legal justifications for the conflicts signaled a potential appetite among lawmakers to reclaim some of Congress’s war powers. Associated Press Transportation Writer Josh Funk contributed from Omaha, Nebraska.

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Trump escalates pressure: Oil blockade risks devastating Venezuela’s economy

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By Regina Garcia Cano The Associated Press

ARACAS, Venezuela—US President Donald Trump’s threat to cut off Venezuelan oil sales could devastate a country already wrangling with years of spiraling crises. The prospect added to Venezuelans’ collective anxiety over their country’s future on Wednesday. But after years of political, social and economic challenges, Venezuelans also treated the threat like another inconvenience—even when it could bring back the shortages of food, gasoline and other goods that defined the country over the last decade. “Well, we’ve already had so many crises, shortages of so many things—food, gasoline—that one more ... well, one doesn’t worry anymore,” Milagro Viana said while waiting to catch a bus in Caracas, the country’s capital.

Increasing pressure TRUMP on Tuesday announced he was ordering a blockade of all “sanctioned oil tankers” into Venezuela, ramping up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who has been charged with narcoterrorism in the United States. Trump’s escalation came after US forces last week seized an oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast after a buildup of military forces in the region. Venezuela has the world’s largest proven oil reserves and produces about 1 million barrels a day. The country’s economy depends on the industry, with more than 80% of output exported. Maduro’s government has relied on a shadowy fleet of unflagged tankers to smuggle crude into global supply chains since 2017, when the first Trump administration be-

gan imposing sanctions on Venezuela’s oil industry. In a post on social media announcing the blockade, Trump alleged that Venezuela was using oil to fund drug trafficking and other crimes. He vowed to continue the military buildup until Venezuela gives the US oil, land and other assets. On Wednesday, Trump demanded that Venezuela return assets it seized from US oil companies years ago, justifying anew his announcement a day earlier of a “blockade” against tankers hauling crude to or from the South American country that face American sanctions.

Economic impact DAVID SMILDE, a Tulane University professor who has studied Venezuela for more than three decades, said a full implementation of Trump’s threat will cause a huge economic contraction because oil represents 90% of the country’s exports. “This is a country that traditionally imports a lot, not just finished goods, but most intermediate goods — everything from toilet paper to food containers,” Smilde said. “If you don’t have foreign currency coming up, that just brings the whole economy to a halt.” That could lead to price increases as well as shortages of food and other basic goods. Fuel could also become scarce because some of the tankers ship Venezuela fluids that are used to produce gasoline for the local market.

FRESH tuna for sale on Macuto beach in Venezuela, Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025. AP PHOTO/ARIANA CUBILLOS “Things are going to get tough here,” Pedro Arangura said while waiting for a remittance store to open. “We have to put up with it. Nobody wants it, but it’s going to happen.” Arangura said material difficulties could lead to Maduro’s ouster, echoing what Venezuela’s opposition has been telling supporters in recent months. Nearby, Ismael Chirino, like Arangura, said he believes the population will “resist” whatever challenges result from Trump’s latest move. But, Chirino said, people will do so to maintain Maduro in office. “We held on. We didn’t have gas, we didn’t have gasoline, we didn’t have money, and yet, we withstood all of that,” Chirino said, referring to the second half of the 2010s, when the country’s economy came undone and shortages were widespread. “I think they need to think very carefully if the US wants to take over our wealth and all our territory.”

The US military buildup THE White House has said the military buildup, which began in the Caribbean and later

expanded to the eastern Pacific Ocean, is meant to stop the flow of drugs into the US. The operation has killed at least 95 people, with Venezuelans among them. Maduro has denied the drug accusations. He and his allies have repeatedly said that the operation’s true purpose is to force a government change in Venezuela. They have also claimed that the US is after Venezuela’s vast oil and mineral resources. Smilde said Trump’s threat was a gift to Chavismo, the political movement that Maduro inherited from the late President Hugo Chávez, his predecessor and mentor. Chávez became president in 1999 with promises to uplift the poor and used an oil bonanza in the 2000s to push a self-described socialist agenda. “There are few actions that any US president has taken in the last 25 years that have better fit Chavismo’s line than Donald Trump’s tweet last night,” Smilde said. “They have been saying this from the beginning, ‘The US wants our oil.’ So, finally, the discourse has the evidence.”

States brace for Trump’s push to make oil drilling cheap again Growth…

Continued from A1

By Morgan Lee | The Associated Press

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ANTA FE, N.M.—A Republican push to make drilling cheaper on federal land is creating new fiscal pressure for states that depend on oil and gas revenue, most notably in New Mexico as it expands early childhood education and saves for the future. The shift stems from the sweeping law President Donald Trump signed in July that rolls back the minimum federal royalty rate to 12.5%. That rate—the share of production value companies must pay to the government—held steady for a century under the 1920 Mineral Leasing Act. It was raised to 16.7% under the Biden administration in 2022. Trump and Republicans in Congress say the rate reset will boost energy production, jobs and affordability as the administration clears the way for expanded drilling and mining on public lands. States receive nearly half the money collected through federal royalties, depending on where production takes place. The environment and economics research group Resources for the Future estimates a roughly $6 billion drop in collections over the coming decade. The stakes are highest in New Mexico, the largest recipient of federal mineral lease payments. The state could forgo $1.7 billion by 2035 and as much as $5.1 billion by 2050, according to calculations by economist Brian Prest at Resources for the Future. More than one-third of the general fund budget in the Democratically-led state is tied to the oil and gas industry. “New Mexico’s impact is way bigger than Wyoming or Colorado or North Dakota,” Prest said, “and that’s just because that’s where the action is on new development.” The effects will unfold gradually, since federal leases allow a 10-year window to begin drilling and production. Still, state officials say they’re already prepping for leaner years. “It all hurts when you’re losing revenues,” said Democratic state Sen. George Muñoz of Gallup, who said lawmakers still hope to invest more in mental health care and support Medicaid, even if federal royalty payments decline. “We’ve learned that until the chicken’s got feathers, we’re not even looking at it.” The higher federal royalty rate was in place for roughly three years while leasing activity was muted, Prest said. New Mexico budget forecasters never tallied the additional income.

New Mexico’s nest-egg strategy

A NEARLY five-fold surge in local oil production since 2017 on federal and state land in New Mexico delivered a financial windfall for state government, helping fund higher teacher salaries, tuition-free college, universal free school meals and more. The state set aside billions of dollars in investment trusts for future spending in case the world’s thirst for oil falters, including a early childhood education fund to help expand preschool, child care subsidies and home wellness visits for pregnancies and infants. The state’s investment nest egg has grown to $64 billion, second only to Alaska’s Permanent Fund. Earnings from the trusts are New Mexico’s second-biggest source for general fund spending. That sturdy financial footing shaped a defiant response to this year’s federal government shutdown, when lawmakers voted to subsidize the state’s Affordable Care Act exchange, cover food assistance and backfill cuts to public broadcasting. But lawmakers reviewing state finances last week learned that predictable income fell 1.6%—the first contraction since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Muñoz said matters would be worse if the state had not raised its own royalty rates this year to 25%, from 20%, for new leases on prime oil and gas tracts, while ending a sales moratorium, under legislation he co-sponsored this year.

Universal free child care under scrutiny

THE slowdown has cast uncertainty over a universal free child care initiative launched by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham last month. Some fellow Democrats in the Legislature have balked at a proposed $160 million spending increase. State Rep. Meredith Dixon of Albuquerque said hundreds of families earning more than $320,000 annually could qualify for free child care despite not needing it. “Universal child care is a fantastic idea,” said Dixon, a Democrat. “I 100% don’t agree with this approach.” Lawmakers are also under court order to carry out a remedial plan to improve K-12 education for Native American students and others from low-income households. New Mexico has long ranked near the bottom nationally on education outcomes, with lagging test scores and low graduation rates. Associated Press writers Becky Bohrer in Juneau, Alaska; and Jack Dura in Bismark, North Dakota, contributed.

The Market Call report underscored that employment will likely rise in the last two months of 2025 to meet the higher consumer demand. While weaker sentiment following the gross domestic product (GDP) in the third quarter appears to have spilled over into the fourth quarter, the economists said on the positive side headline inflation slowed to 1.5 percent in November. However, October unemployment rate “shot up” to 5 percent as natural disasters and slower government spending dimmed hiring. On trade, robust exports demand, with 19.4-percent growth rate in October and weaker import appetite, with 6.5 percent, narrowed the trade gap by 34.2 percent to $3.8 billion. Meanwhile, industrial output indicators dimmed, with November Manufacturing PMI sliding into contraction territory at 47.4. Last month, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) announced that the Philippine economy grew by 4 percent in the third quarter of 2025. This was the economy’s weakest pace since the first quarter of 2021, when it contracted by 3.8 percent. The Philippine economy’s performance in the third quarter resulted in an average 5-percent growth which is below the government’s target range of 5.5 to 6.5 percent. As such, the country’s chief economist conceded that the lower end of the government’s 5.5- to 6.5-percent target range may now be out of reach. “It’s very challenging to meet already the lower range of the 5.5 percent because that would mean that the fourth quarter would have to grow at 6.9 percent or something around that,” Balisacan earlier noted. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/11/08/infra-fiascos-impact-q3growth-a-mere-4/)

Friday, December 19, 2025

PHL-India cooperation: Filipino baby recovers after open heart surgery supported by FICWSI

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F I L I PI NO c h i l d h a s re turned to the country following her successful open heart surgery performed in Bengaluru, India, through the support of the Filipino Indian Commerce and Welfare Society Inc. (FICWSI). Baby Aviannalyn, together with her mother arrived in the Philippines on December 16. They were welcomed by FICWSI Founder and President Manjinder James Kumar. Baby Aviannalyn’s successful operation, the FICWSI said, is a testament that cross-border cooperation and compassion is never impossible for Filipino and Indian organizations in their shared mission to save lives and support families in need. FICWSI has extended its support toward the successful life-saving open heart surgery of Baby Aviannalyn, who had serious heart defect since birth and required immediate surgery. Baby Aviannalyn and her mother left the Philippines on October

31,2025. Kumar said that the humanitarian effort was also made possible through the invaluable assistance of Rotarian (Rtn.) Nischal Pandey, Charter President, Past Dist. Governor Rtn. Rajendra Rai Managing trustee of Rotary Needy Heart Foundation (RNHF), Rtn. Bimal Desai Rotary Club of Bengaluru, Midtown, and Rtn.Rajiv Srivastava. Their dedication and commitment played a vital role in ensuring that Baby Aviannalyn received timely and critical medical care. Kumar expressed deep gratitude to all partners involved, emphasizing that this initiative ref lects the “core values of service, empathy, and global solidarity upheld by the Society.” Kumar assured that the FICWSI w ill continue to extend its hand through meaningful welfare initiatives, aimed at creating lasting impact and hope for v u lnerable communities. Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

MMDA, DOTr, and PDEA lead holiday bus terminal inspections and driver drug testing

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N line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize passenger convenience and safety at all times, officials of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Transportation (DOTr), Land Transportation Office (LTO), and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) conducted inspection and random drug testing among bus drivers in several terminals in Cubao, Quezon City. “Our inspection aims to ensure the safe, orderly, and convenient movement of commuters and prevent untoward incidents at bus terminals during the holiday rush,” said MMDA Chairman Atty. Don Artes said. DOTr Usec. for Road Transport and NonInfrastructure Ramon Reyes, DOTr Asec. for Road Infrastructure Mark Steven Pastor, LTO Asec. Markus Lacalinao, PDEA Operations Division Chief Joel Villarente, Quezon City Traffic and Transport Management Department Head Dexter Cardenas, and

representatives from the Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group joined the inspection at bus terminals along Edsa. Reyes said the random drug test was intended to ensure the safety of commuters using public utility buses going to their respective provinces for the holiday season. “We want to ensure bus drivers have no trace of drug use and are fit and in good condition before operating public utility buses for long distance travel,” Artes added. While authorities have obser ved passengers continuously arriving at terminals, Artes said they expect the influx to increase this coming weekend. Full deployment of personnel have also been implemented to manage traffic in major roads in Metro Manila. Based on the agency’s latest volume count, around 437,000 vehicles traverse Edsa. Lacalinao said they deployed K-9 teams to help with drug detection and safety checks. Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

Angara taps LGUs to help implement ₧85.4-billion school building program By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

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MID preparations for the rollout of billions of pesos worth of school infrastructure projects next year, Education Secretar y Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara on Thursday called on local governments to take a more active role in delivering classrooms and safeguarding education funds. Engaging with the Mayors for Good Governance (M4GG) coalition, Angara said the push for stronger transparency and accountability comes as the Department of Education (DepEd) prepares to implement a major portion of its 2026 School program, with an estimated P85.4 billion Senate-approved allocation for the construction and completion of around 24,500 classrooms nationwide. Angara noted that local governments will play a central role as

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VER 7,000 individuals received livelihood and employment assistance across the SOCCSKSARGEN region this year, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office XII said on Thursday. Data from DOLE XII showed that 6,084 individuals and groups received P118.39 million in livelihood assistance under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), while another 1,315 young Filipinos benefited from paid internships through the Government Internship Program (GIP). Implemented throughout the year, the DILP focused on workers in the informal sector and other marginalized groups, providing start-up capital, tools, equipment, and skills training intended to support small-scale

income activities. DOLE XII said the assistance was spread across various sectors often excluded from formal employment. Among the largest groups of beneficiaries were 813 parents of child laborers who were givenP18.02 million and 166 senior citizens who received P18.26 million in livelihood support. The regional office said the assistance to parents of child laborers was meant to help stabilize household income and reduce economic pressure that often pushes children into work. Other recipients included 139 persons deprived of liberty with P2.39 million, 95 indigenous people provided with P2.21 million, 51 persons with disabilities who received P1.93 million, and 18 former rebels givenP495,397 to support their

co-implementers, particularly in facilitating land use, fast-tracking permits, and monitoring project execution. The DepEd chief also recognized the role of the M4GG in promoting integrity and accountability at the local level, noting that these principles are critical as the education sector confronts a more than 165,000-classroom backlog nationwide. “ Kung malinaw ang bidding, mabilis ang permitting, at mahig pit ang lokal na monitoring, mas mabilis nating maihahatid ang mga silid-aralan sa mga bata,” A ngara said, adding that governance at the local level can significantly shorten construction timelines and reduce project delays. Under the planned implementation scheme, Angara said capable local governments will be tapped to directly handle classroom construction using national funds, alongside projects implemented through the Department of

Public Works and Highways (DPWH), public-private partnerships, and other government partners. He said this multi-track approach is intended to accelerate delivery, especially in areas where LGUs can move faster on procurement and project supervision.

Special Education Fund ANGAR A also highlighted reforms governing the use of the Special Education Fund (SEF), sourced from the 1 percent real property tax, following updated joint guidelines issued by DepEd and other oversight agencies. Under the revised rules, SEF may now be used to complement national spending by supporting early childhood education, feeding programs, literacy and remediation initiatives, digital devices for classrooms, and inclusive education programs, provided allocations are based on local data and needs.

LTFRB sets distance-based TNVS pick-up fees to compensate drivers for travel time By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

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HE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has approved a fixed pick-up fare system for transport network vehicle services (TNVS) to compensate drivers for travel time to passenger locations during the peak holiday season. Under LTFRB Memorandum Circular 2025-058 dated December 17, the pick-up fare will be charged based on the distance from the driver’s booking acceptance point to the passenger’s location, limited to a 5-kilometer radius. According to the memo, the pick-up fares are: P24 to P120 for hatchback/ subcompact vehicles; P26 to P130 for car/ sedan; P29 to P145 for AUV/SUV; and P58 to P289 for premium vehicles, depending on the distance from 1 to 5 kilometers.

DOLE XII extends livelihood, internship aid to over 7K beneficiaries in 2025 By Justine Xyrah Garcia

reintegration. Parallel to livelihood assistance, the regional office reported continued implementation of the GIP, which offers three- to six-month paid internships to youth aged 18 to 30. The program targets out-of-school youth, graduates, and individuals from low-income families, placing them in government offices. As of November 2025, 86 GIP beneficiaries had already been absorbed by partner government agencies or hired by private employers, according to DOLE XII. “Under the current administration, DOLE 12 continues to implement programs that empower youth, enhance employability, and promote inclusive social and economic growth across SOCCSKSARGEN communities,” it added.

The charges will be on top of the fare that would be charged from the actual pick-up to the destination. “We understand the concerns raised by the TNVS drivers and the arguments they raised are backed by studies on travel time especially in Metro Manila,” Mendoza said. “That is why we are implementing this measure as an acceptable and justified solution to balance the impact of the price surging reduction by 50 percent to the TNVS community, ”The measure takes effect December 20 and will run until January 4, coinciding with the implementation of reduced surge pricing caps for ride-hailing services. Mendoza said operational data from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) showed that average vehicle speeds on Edsa drop to one kilometer per hour during peak periods, compared to the usual 17 to 20 kilometers per hour.

This eats up time and fuel for TNVS drivers. Furthermore, he cited a Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department report from April 2024 that found that average travel time in Metro Manila is 25 minutes and 30 seconds per 10 kilometers, extending to 34 minutes during evening rush hour. “The pick-up fare system is really aimed at aligning fare computation with actual service costs, promote equitable compensation for TNVS drivers, and ensure availability of rides across all areas,” said Mendoza. The memorandum prohibits transport network companies from taking a share from the fixed pick-up fare to maximize driver earnings. The LTFRB previously barred TNCs from taking commissions from surge pricing.

Palace suspends govt work Dec. 29, Jan. 2 for weeklong New Year break By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

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UBLIC servants will have a weeklong New Year holiday after Malacañang suspended government work on 29 December 2025 and 2 January 2026. With authority from President Ferdinand Marcos, Acting Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto issued Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 111 for the said suspension. He said the new MC aims to provide government employees full opportunity to celebrate New Year’s Day activities and to allow them to travel to and from different regions in the country. The suspension will exempt agencies involved in basic, vital, and health services,

and preparedness and response duties. It will also not cover the private sector. MC No. 111 was issued and became effective on 18 December 2025. Under Proclamation No. 727, series of 2024, which contained the official list of holidays this year, the remaining scheduled regular holidays for this month are Christmas Day (December 25) and Rizal Day (December 30). The same issuance declared Christmas Eve (December 24) and the Last Day of the Year (December 31) as special nonworking days. Recto issued MC No. 111 after flagging a fake Palace issuance, which claimed government work on December 28 and 29 were suspended, last week.

PHL eyes Asean-wide guidelines on human trafficking aid; new local system launched

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HE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said the country is already eyeing to expand the reach of its new interagency operational guidelines, which significantly streamlines the delivery of aid for victims of human trafficking and illegal recruitment, to other Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) members countries. During the press conference for the official launching of its Operational Guidelines for Referral of Cases Involving Trafficked Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos last Thursday as part of the celebration of International Migrants Day, DMW Secretary Hans J. Cacdac said the matter will be raised during the country’s hosting of the ASEAN Summit next year.

“I am bringing that up because that is along the lines of harmonizing [guidelines]. That can be discussed during our chairship of the ASEAN [Summit],” he said. Department of Justice-Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IAC AT ) Executive Director Lizette S. Manalili said they still face challenges when it comes to coordinating with law enforcement agencies of other countries when it comes to assisting Filipino human trafficking and illegal recruitment victims. “There are still elements that are outside our authority...So it can be probably our way forward is how to connect our referral system with the referral system of other countries or the movement of other law enforcers,” she said.

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After being approved by IACAT last September, the new referral guidelines was piloted in Metro Manila, where it has help fast-track the processing and delivery if aid for human trafficking and illegal recruitment victims. DMW officer-in-charge Director Migrant Protection Bureau Geraldine C. Mendez said the referral system was able to reduce the processing of 356 victims to just three day. Prior to the implementation of the new referral system, Manalili said processing of the said victims was significantly longer. She also noted there were many cases wherein the victims were not endorsed to appropriate agency for assistance. She said while many mechanism in the new referral system were already

practiced by the concerned government agencies before, it is the first time they were consolidated and institutionalized to eliminate overlaps and confusion in jurisdictions. One of the new key features of the referral system, she said, was the unified information intake sheet, which prevents victims from filling up multiple forms, which can cause them to relieve their traumatic experience. “So meaning at the first point of contact, this will only be the information, which will be taken from the victim-survivors...They will no longer have to undergo another set of interview, another set of requirements once they are referred from one agency or office to another,” Manalili explained.

Cacdac said the new referral system is set to be rolled out in other parts of the country next year: Clark for Luzon on March 24-26; in Cebu for the Visayas on April 28-30; and in Davao for Mindanao on May 19-21. “ We w i l l l i k e w i s e d e v e l o p a complementar y set of incorporation guidelines for handling trafficking cases in seaports with an initial development in Zamboanga..., on February 24-26,” he said. “As we move for ward, may the implementation of these guidelines further strengthen our resolve to deliver justice, provide meaningful support, and build a safer and more responsive environment for all migrant workers and overseas Filipinos,” he added. Samuel P.Medenilla

He said aligning SEF utilization with transparent local school board decisions and data-driven planning is critical as DepEd seeks to ensure that increased funding translates into completed classrooms, improved learning conditions, and better outcomes for learners. The dialogue forms part of DepEd’s broader push to open its programs and projects to closer public scrutiny, including expanded auditing, public reporting, and evidence-based planning, as the Marcos administration seeks to convert record education budgets into tangible gains in schools nationwide. M4GG, a coalition of city and municipal mayors launched in 2023, has pledged to uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability in local governance. Its convenors include Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, and Isabela City, Basilan Mayor Sitti Hataman.

MMFF Parade of Stars kicks off in Makati: Catch your favorite celebs on December 19

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HE highly-anticipated Parade of the Stars of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) cherished tradition is expected to draw crowds as movie fans wanting to get a glimpse of their favorite celebrities aboard decorative floats representing each movie entry for this year. The Parade of Stars of the 51st edition of the MMFF is set to kick off on Friday (December 19 ) in Makati, which serves as host city for this year’s event. The Parade of the Stars, a prelude to the MMFF’s nationwide screening, will showcase the stars and floats of the eight official film entries: “Call Me Mother,” “Rekonek,” “Manila’s Finest,” “Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins,” “I’m perfect,” “Love You So Bad,” “Unmarry,” and “Bar Boys: After School.” MMDA and Concurrent Overall MMFF Chairman Romando Artes said the MMFF is thrilled to bring the festive spirit of the Filipino cinema and the magic of the MMFF Parade of Stars to the streets of Makati. “We are excited to share the celebration with the people in Makati City for the first time. The upcoming 51st Parade of Stars will be another memorable occasion to mark this year’s theme: A New Era for Philippine Cinema,” said Artes. On December 19, movie-themed floats will assemble at Macapagal Boulevard at 1 pm. The parade will travel through Buendia Avenue, Ayala Avenue, Makati Avenue, JP Rizal Street, A. Reyes Avenue, and will end at Circuit Makati. It will run for one-hour and 40 minutes and will cover a distance of 8.4 kilometers. The audience will have the chance to meet and greet with the stars, followed by a program and performances at the Circuit Makati. Motorists are advised to avoid the route of the parade and plan their trips accordingly to avoid inconvenience. Temporary lane closure and stop-and-go scheme will be implemented by the MMDA along the route of the parade. Traffic adjustments will be in effect from 12:01 p.m. up to 10 p.m. on the following roads: Macapagal Boulevard, Senator Gil Puyat Avenue, Ayala Avenue, Makati Avenue, JP Rizal Street, and AP Reyes Avenue. Motorists will be made to stop intermittently on specific lanes to allow the parade to pass quickly then traffic is resumed. Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

A10 Friday, December 19, 2025 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

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The nickel paradox: Fueling the global green transition but ruining our own

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HE shiny potential of nickel—an essential mineral driving the global green transition—is dimmed for the Philippines. A startling new report from the International Labor Organization (ILO) exposes a troubling reality: while the world scrambles for nickel to build electric vehicles and renewable infrastructure, the Philippines is squandering its vast reserves, condemning its workers to low-wage, high-risk dead-end jobs, and missing the boat on sustainable development. (Read the BusinessMirror story—ILO: PHL may miss green transition quality jobs, December 17, 2025).

The ILO’s findings reveal a mining industry in distress, heavily reliant on exporting raw nickel ore, which restricts economic growth and limits job opportunities to low-paying, manual labor roles—70 percent of our workers are in elementary occupations, a stark contrast to Indonesia’s 41 percent and Mongolia’s 7 percent. Additionally, the industry’s extensive subcontracting structure not only creates inefficiencies but also allows primary operators to evade responsibility, resulting in exploitation characterized by withheld wages, delayed payments, and lack of social security contributions. Consequently, miners earn poverty wages—around P13,000 monthly—while facing perilous working conditions, including exposure to nickel dust and insufficient safety measures. Union representation is scarce, particularly among subcontracted workers, leaving many vulnerable employees, including women who comprise up to 40 percent of the workforce, without the ability to advocate for better conditions. The ILO highlights Indonesia’s successful shift to domestic processing, which has led to the creation of formal, higher-paying jobs with comprehensive social protections, while Mongolia’s similar approach in copper mining has resulted in substantial improvements in worker security. This is a national policy failure. We are exporting not just nickel ore, but our people’s potential, their safety, and their fair share of the green transition’s benefits. We are enriching foreign processors while impoverishing our own communities and workers. The path forward for the Philippines is clear: a decisive shift towards downstream processing is essential. This involves banning or imposing heavy taxes on raw ore exports while incentivizing the establishment of domestic smelting and refining plants to capture value and create higher-wage, skilled jobs. Additionally, the labor market requires significant reform by dismantling the subcontracting maze; strict enforcement of labor laws and direct employment relationships must be prioritized, with severe penalties for wage theft and safety violations. Empowering workers through robust unionization is crucial, alongside strengthening the Department of Labor and Employment and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau to proactively enforce safety regulations. Furthermore, policies should promote the formalization of subcontracted and informal workers, ensuring equitable access to technical training and higher-paying positions for women in the industry. The global transition requires critical minerals that are both ethically sourced and sustainably produced. The Philippines has the nickel, but without a radical shift in industrial policy and labor enforcement, we will remain a source of exploited labor and environmental degradation, not a beneficiary of the green economy we help fuel. The ILO report is more than a warning; it’s an indictment of our current trajectory. But we have a choice: we can continue down the path of resource curse, exporting raw ore and human dignity, or we can seize the moment. We can invest in our people, our processing capacity, and our future. The choice is ours, but the clock on the global green transition is ticking. Will the Philippines be a leader in smart mining, or remain trapped in the nickel pit of its own making?

Thank you Maroon Five of the UP Men’s Basketball Team Dennis Gorecho

Kuwentong Peyups

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HE chant “UP Fight” reverberated inside the Smart Araneta Coliseum last December 17, 2025 as fans cheered for the finale game of Harold Alarcon, Terrence Fortea, Gerry Abadiano, Reyland Torres, and Janjan Felicilda, known as the Maroon Five of the Mens’ Basketball Team of the University of the Philippines (UP).

This is the Maroon Five’s last game with the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) since they are seniors who will be graduating this school year. The UAAP is an athletic association of eight Metro Manila universities in the Philippines, composed of UP, Adamson University (AdU), Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU), De La Salle University (DLSU), Far Eastern University (FEU), National University (NU), University of the

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EAGLE WATCH

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N December 9 and 10, a multi-disciplinary team of social scientists from Ateneo de Manila University participated in a workshop in Lisbon, Portugal on the various ties linking the two countries, in particular, and Southeast Asia and Europe, more generally.

Lourdes M. Fernandez Jennifer A. Ng Vittorio V. Vitug

Publishers Association of the Philippines Inc.

mogat (5’10), Gani Stevens (6’7), Reyland Torres (6’1), Miguel Yniguez (6’5). Felicilda (5’7) is the shortest while Alter (6’9) is the tallest. For the Season 88 eliminations, UP had 10 wins and four losses, one each with UST (67-87) and Adamson (59-62) while twice with DLSU (6259) and (72-69). UP then defeated UST (82-81) in Game 1 of Final Four round to advance to the finals. In Game 1 of the finals, DLSU defeated UP, 74-70, while the latter equalized, 66-63, in Game 2 to force the decider. Around 24,339 fans from both schools cheered in Game 3, which was in favor of DLSU 80-72. For UP, Remogat led with 21 points, three rebounds, two assists,

and two steals, while Nnoruka posted 16 points, 15 rebounds, two steals, and two blocks. The UP Game 3 score of 72 points came from Remogat (21), Nnoruka (16), Torres (11), Abadiano (7), Alarcon (6), Stevens (6), Bayla (3), and Alter (2). The quarter scores are 19-16, 40-41, 58-59, and 80-72. Out of the total season team points of 1,352, Nnoruka delivered 237 points, followed by Alarcon (223), Remogat (194), Abadiano (157), Stevens (131), Torres (84), Fortea (79), Bayla (76), Belmonte (48), Palanca (34), Alter (32), Yniguez (32), Felicilda (10), Briones (9), Coronel (4) and Andres (2). Abadiano (#19) was part of UPMBT for S84-88, Alarcon (#18) for S84-88, Felicilda (#20) for S8688, Fortea (#10) for S84-88, and Torres (#2) for S86-88).

Peyups is the moniker of the University of the Philippines. Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho is the Junior Partner of the Sapal Velez Bundang Bulilan Law Offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez. com, or call 0908-8665786.

The economic ties between the Philippines and Portugal

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East (UE), and University of Santo Tomas (UST). Season 88 is hosted by UST with the theme “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action.” The players for the UPMBT for Season 88 include Abadiano (5’11), Alarcon (6’1), Sean Alter (6’9), LA Andres (6’5), Jacob Bayla (6’5), Mark Belmonte (6’6), Chicco Briones (6’6), Joshua Coronel (6’4), Janjan Felicilda (5’7), Fortea (6’1), Francis Nnoruka (6’9 ), Miguel Palanca (6’7), Noy Re-

This is the Maroon Five’s last game with the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) since they are seniors who will be graduating this school year.

Portugal, of course, has been in the news lately as the possible hiding place of fugitive former Representative Zaldy Co. The workshop was organized by historian Dr. Stepahanie Coo of Ateneo but who is currently based in Lisbon doing some work with the Centre for the Humanities of the School of Social Sciences and Humanities of NOVA University Lisbon (CHAM NOVA FCSH). The ADMU team was led by Dr. Rosita G. Leong School of Social Science Dean Dr. Czarina Saloma-Akpedonu. The workshop was financially supported by the CHAM NOVA FCSH, Ateneo, and the Philippine Embassy in Lisbon, led by Ambassador of the Philippines to Portugal Paul Raymund Cortes (an Ateneo alumnus). The workshop featured presentations by both European and Filipino scholars. On the Philippine side, the presenters, apart from Dr. Coo and Dr. Saloma-Akpedonu, were Ms. Karina Garilao, Dr. Katherine Lac-

son, Dr. Patricia Irene Dacudao, Dr. Manuel Enverga III, Dr. Olivia Anne Habana, Dr. Katherine Lacson, Dr. Diana Mendoza, Dr. Cristina Montiel, Dr. Jane Yugioksing, and myself. My own presentation was titled “Untangling the Puzzle of Anemic Bilateral Trade, Investment, and Labor Migration Between the Philippines and Portugal.” It was a preliminary attempt to answer the question of why the economic ties between the Philippines and Portugal are quite weak despite some shared history and a common major religion. The economic ties between two countries take three main forms. First is trade in goods and services. We buy imported goods from other countries and they buy from ours. We also buy services from other counties. Tourism, business process outsourcing, and student enrolment abroad are forms of services trade. Second is investments, especially foreign direct investments or FDI. FDI is a form of investment that is tied to a physical presence, usually a

factory, and is more long term. Portfolio investment is the other type of investment involving financial assets, and is typically shorter term and more volatile. Finally, economies are also tied through labor migration, which is also reflected through remittance flows. There are different theories and models that try to explain the strength of these economic ties. I will not discuss them all here for lack of space. But an empirical model that has been widely used to model trade, investments, and labor migration is called the Gravity model. As the name implies, this means modeling the economic strength between countries as a function of their combined economic size and the distance between them. The bigger their combined size, in terms of the product of their GDPs, the higher the expected trade. The greater the distance, the lower the expected trade. Distance is not just physical distance. The presence of common borders, language, currency, legal system, religion, and a shared colonial history are factors that reduce distance. Philippine goods exports to Portugal were valued only $27 million in 2024 and the trend has been declining since after the pandemic. This is a very small share of total Philippine exports. One way of looking at it is that Portugal accounts for 1.5 percent of the EU economy but only half a percent of Philippine exports to the EU. In 2024, Philippine exports to Portugal were mainly electronics, and also agriculture products, like

pineapple, and fishery products like octopus and fish. Philippine imports from Portugal were even smaller. In 2024, it only comprised one-fifth of one percent of Philippine imports for the EU. The main import items from Portugal were machineries, garments, and electronics. There is very little recorded labor migration from the Philippines to Portugal, at least through official channels, which excludes irregular migration and third country migration, where a Filipino worker transfers to Portugal from another country. There is no available more recent data but deployment to Portugal never crossed 100 workers from 2010 to 2017, including rehires. It is much less than deployment to Greece, Czech Republic, and Norway, which are countries of similar size, and which have less historical and cultural ties to the Philippines. Recently it has even been surpassed by deployment to Hungary. Net FDI to the Philippines is generally low, especially compared to what its neighbors like Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam get. But net FDI to the Philippines from Portugal is relatively miniscule. Based on the Gravity model, the economic ties between the two countries should be stronger. What accounts for this relatively weak or anemic economic ties? In terms of trade, the reason appears to be modest trade complementarity. There is overlap in some manufactured goods but there is no strong match for each other’s See “Eagle Watch,” A11

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Friday, December 19, 2025 A11

Re-living the Season of Affliction In a fractured world, Asean and PHL can help restore humanity to Tito Genova Valiente ANNOTATIONS humanitarian action

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By Paul McPhun

HIS year has exposed not only an unprecedented rise in humanitarian need, but also a dangerous erosion of global solidarity. Compassion is waning, political will is hardening and international cooperation is faltering at the very moment it is most needed.

The consequences are brutally visible: Gaza’s decimated hospitals, Sudan’s besieged communities, and Rohingya families surviving in overcrowded camps and communities across Myanmar, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Indonesia. Across these crises, the gap between what is needed and what the world is willing to provide has never been wider, or more dangerous. Even the replenishment of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria expose this retreat, with pledges falling far short as medicines run out, health workers go unpaid, and preventable deaths rise. Without renewed commitments, decades of progress risk unravelling. In this fractured landscape, Asean— and the Philippines in particular—can play a critical role. As a bloc founded on cooperation, stability and mutual support, Asean can help restore the idea that every life has equal value, no matter where it is lived. At a time when humanitarian action is being politicized, privatized and increasingly militarized, The Philippines as leader of Asean can lead the bloc, as it has done before, in championing the fundamental principles that protect civilians, preserve human dignity, and ensure equitable access to care.

Gaza: When a ceasefire is not enough

EVEN with the current ceasefire, the medical and humanitarian needs in Gaza remain overwhelming. Most hospitals are destroyed or severely damaged. Doctors Without Borders / Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) teams continue to treat mass casualties, complex surgical cases, and children suffering deep psychological trauma. Children like five-year-old Omar, evacuated to Doctors Without Borders reconstructive surgery hospital in Amman, embody the collapse of Gaza’s health system. Many arrive malnourished, terrified, and in need of months of surgery, rehabilitation and psychological support. Despite the ceasefire, violence persists: Palestinians are shot near the “yellow line” as they attempt to return to their homes. Israeli restrictions continue to severely limit the entry of medical supplies, fuel, shelter equipment and essential materials. A ceasefire without unimpeded humanitarian access offers only partial relief; people remain at extreme risk. Living conditions are appalling. Overcrowded shelters without clean water or sanitation drive spikes in respiratory, gastrointestinal and skin infections, a predictable and avoidable public health emergency that will worsen as winter sets in. Most concerning, the humanitarian response is being deliberately restricted at the very moment it is most needed. Aid is being treated as a bargaining chip rather than a lifeline. Doctors Without Borders is calling for unrestricted, needs-based assistance and a clear rejection of any model that militarizes aid or conditions it on political objectives.

Sudan: The world’s largest and most ignored humanitarian crisis

SUDAN is today the world’s worst and most neglected humanitarian crisis. Doctors Without Borders supports more than 30 health facilities across 10 states, yet the scale of suffering far outstrips the global response. Since April 2023, over 1.7 million people have sought care in our supported clinics, a stark indicator of a health system in freefall. In Darfur, violence, famine and forced displacement are catastrophic. In Tawila, 75 percent of newly arrived children under five were acutely malnourished; 25 percent were severely malnourished, many arriving after months of siege and starvation. In places like Zamzam camp, Doctors Without Borders teams have treated hundreds of people with gunshot wounds, fractures, and injuries sustained during ethnically

targeted attacks. Civilians describe being “killed, blocked and hunted down” while fleeing. Hospitals are routinely attacked. Facilities we support, including Al Nao Hospital in Omdurman and Kas Hospital in Darfur, have been shelled, looted or surrounded by armed groups. The legal protection afforded to medical facilities, and those seeking or providing care, has collapsed. The indirect consequences of the conflict are equally devastating. Over two years, Doctors Without Borders has treated 174,000 malaria cases, 89,100 diarrheal cases, and thousands of measles patients. Diseases driven by displacement, lack of clean water, and the collapse of vaccination services. Doctors Without Borders has assisted more than 35,300 deliveries, yet many women still arrive too late due to insecurity and distance.

Rohingya: A crisis Asia can no longer overlook

ACROSS Southeast Asia, the Rohingya crisis remains one of the region’s most neglected emergencies. Nearly a million Rohingya remain in squalid camps in Bangladesh, while thousands more are displaced or transiting through Myanmar, Malaysia and Indonesia. Funding cuts have sharply reduced essential services. Doctors Without Borders teams report rising malnutrition, increasing infectious diseases, anemia, and mounting mental health needs. People who survived genocide now face a worsening humanitarian situation driven not by a lack of compassion from local communities, but by a collapse in international commitment. With no durable political solution in sight, the region is being forced to manage a crisis the world has chosen to look away from.

Why Asean’s voice matters now

AT a time of global fragmentation, Asean and the Philippines, can be a stabilizing, constructive and principled force. Asen states have a long history of responding to displacement, hosting refugees, leading peacebuilding efforts, and supporting regional disaster responses. With diplomatic credibility across geopolitical divides, Asean is uniquely positioned within the emerging multipolar world order to champion humanitarian access by calling for unrestricted, unconditional assistance in Gaza, Sudan, Myanmar and beyond. Asean members can reaffirm core humanitarian principles, that aid must be based on need alone, never shaped by military or political interests. Asean members can remind the world that no life is worth less because of where it is lived. As 2025 ends, the humanitarian landscape is defined by record-level needs and record-low funding commitments. Asean members must mobilize more aid where they can and importantly use their political credibility and influence to apply pressure on others to reverse this downward trajectory. By speaking clearly and collectively, the region can help restore humanity to humanitarian action at a moment when it is disappearing. Millions of people – from children in Gaza to mothers in Sudan to Rohingya families across Southeast Asia —cannot wait for compassion to return. Their very survival depends on it now. Paul McPhun is currently the director of Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) for Asia Pacific, focusing on Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia. After working with international UN agencies in Africa in the early 1990s, Paul joined Doctors Without Borders in 1997, setting up medical relief programs in Central Asia and Latin America. As Operational Manager in Canada from 2006, Paul was responsible for programs in countries including Haiti, Russia North Caucuses, Ivory Coast, Colombia, Nigeria and Papua New Guinea, and was one of the coordinators that led the emergency response in Haiti following the 2010 earthquake. In December 2010, Paul moved to Sydney to take up the role of Executive Director for Doctors Without Borders in Australia.

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HERE was I during the pandemic? Seasons came and went during those years and months when there was no certainty. There were laws—regulations and control—that reminded us of something bigger than us. First, there was the dreaded air, the disease that seemed to pervade our surroundings; then there was the mind above our minds telling where to go and where not to go.

When the wind had turned cold, we thought there would be a change, but no, the Chill could even make things worse, the experts bristled. There were no signs that shifts were coming; there was no observable hope. There was, it seemed, no clear horizon to look forward to. Even rituals of appeasement and propitiation were postponed. The divinities compromised; the profane and the sacred suffered blurring. Processions would not be processed; ceremonials could be adjudicated— rethought, refiled, even reified. We humans have a way of dealing with complex matters, with mysteries. We either break them apart to make them whole again, or we put them together so as to make sense of everything. This works for us. Ever since. It worked for me as a mere human coping with the extremely limiting existence. My first step then was to come home, to roost, be sheltered in a place of power and comfort.

Can I go back to any wellspring of wisdom? I knew what I did upon arriving in my place—rummage through my old books, for there, I knew I would find the book that would comfort me, the Teachings of Don Juan. This seems like a forgotten script, an esoteric source of knowledge—another time, another place, another dimension. I was very young then, naive. We were all naive, but this naivete predisposed us to take in the extraordinary exegesis of a distant ethnography— that ventured into by an American anthropologist, Carlos Castaneda. Following his account, Castaneda wrote of his Shamanistic initiation under a Yaqui Indian, Juan Matus. Part memoir, part-hallucinogenic exploration and it is in the end a compelling ethnography, the series of books developed a cult following. I, too, was part of this flock. But then the years have a way of changing our mindset. What did Don Juan say?

“Seek and see all the marvels around you. You will get tired of looking at yourself alone, and that fatigue will make you deaf and blind to everything else.” I recall the long tedious conversations the anthropologist had with the Shaman, how he navigated his doubts and anxieties. There were fantastic moments when Castaneda was caught between his own disbelief and truth, when he was not sure if what he was receiving was his reality or the suggestions of the Shaman. This was, I would realize, part of the methodology of Don Juan. This question is one that only a very old man asks. Does this path have a heart? All paths are the same: they lead nowhere. They are paths going through the bush, or into the bush. In my own life I could say I have traversed long long paths, but I am not anywhere. Does this path have a heart? If it does, the path is

good; if it doesn’t, it is of no use. Both paths lead nowhere; but one has a heart, the other doesn’t. One makes for a joyful journey; as long as you follow it, you are one with it. The other will make you curse your life. One makes you strong; the other weakens you. The old book began to make sense again. Even the notion of stopping the world had begun to make sense again. Don Juan reminded us that nature was always teaching us—the boiling water makes a gurgling sound to tell us it is hot and we should listen to it. The chair around us calls us if it is the seat of power for us. Somewhere, the phantom forces are lurking and they are there to force us down or let us soar into spaces. When the world is losing its meaning, we search for it somewhere. In ancient teachings. E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com

US approves $11 billion arms sale to Taiwan, risking China anger By Yian Lee

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HE US has approved a package of arms sales to Taiwan worth up to $11 billion, a move that will likely draw a sharp response from Beijing.

The approvals, announced late Wednesday by the State Department, cover a broad range of equipment, including missiles, drones and artillery systems aimed at strengthening the democracy’s defenses. The package includes a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS, valued at up to $4.05 billion, as well as self-propelled howitzers worth about $4 billion. The deal marks one of Washington’s most significant efforts in recent years to bolster Taiwan’s military capabilities in the face of Chinese aggression. It underscores the US commitment to arming the island, even as the move risks straining an already fragile relationship with China.

China’s Foreign Ministry didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment. The total value of the sales is up to $11.154 billion, according to a separate statement from Taiwan’s Defense Ministry. The weapons deal is one of the biggest ever between the US and Taiwan, though the State Department said that the final amount would be lower depending on factors such as budget authority and military needs. The sale comes less than two months after Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Donald Trump met in South Korea and agreed on a one-year truce in their trade spat. As part of that deal, Beijing ensured US access to

rare earths critical to manufacturing everything from smartphones to missiles. In a call last month, Xi told Trump that Taiwan’s return to China was an “integral part of the postwar international order”—highlighting how Taiwan would remain a flashpoint in US-China relations. The sale also lands as Taiwan and the US try to work out a trade pact of their own. Over the summer, Trump hit Taiwanese goods with a 20% levy, and talks in recent months have failed to yield a lower number, something both Japan and South Korea have been able to negotiate. The HIMARS is the biggest part of the US sale. In May, Taiwan conducted its first live-fire test of the multiple-launch rocket system that has proven devastatingly effective in Ukraine’s efforts to defend against the Russian invasion. The platform can be equipped with missiles capable of striking tar-

gets up to 300 kilometers (some 185 miles) away—well beyond China’s southeastern coast, significantly enhancing Taiwan’s strike capabilities, both in range and precision. In its statement on the HIMARS sale, the State Department said it served US national security interests by helping Taiwan “modernize its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability.” The HIMARS would “assist in maintaining political stability, military balance and economic progress in the region,” it added. While there have been questions about Trump’s commitment to Taiwan, his first term was marked by 22 military sales notifications for Taiwan valued at $18.65 billion, including backlogged cases and funding for maintenance of existing systems. That compared to about $8.7 billion during the Biden administration, according to a 2024 report from the Cato Institute. Bloomberg

Tankers with Russian oil shunned by India pile up off China By Rong Wei Neo & Yongchang Chin

ers are located. The pile-up of Urals off China is a unique situation that global oil traders are closely watching. Most of Russia’s exports of the grade, which is loaded from ports in the west of the country, usually goes to India. Chinese refiners aren’t typical buyers, as they prefer crude from the Russian

Far East, which is more diesel-rich and also a lot closer to them. Increased US scrutiny of Russiato-India oil flows, as well as sanctions on major producers Rosneft PJSC and Lukoil PJSC, have in recent weeks prompted sellers of Urals to seek out other willing takers across East Asia. India’s imports of Russian oil will drop to 800,000 barrels a day this month, according to local officials, compared with a peak of 2 million barrels a day in June. There are “sizable volumes of Urals looking for a home” as Indian buyers such as Reliance Industries Ltd. stay on

the sidelines, said Muyu Xu, a senior crude analyst at Kpler. Russian sellers have slashed Urals prices to China to levels even lower than Iranian oil, which is drawing strong interest from refiners in Shandong, she said. At this stage, it’s not clear if the cargoes of Urals amassed off China have been sold, or whether they’re still being marketed. Tankers can make the long journey from Russia’s west without first securing a buyer. China is the obvious alternative destination for the crude, but Indonesia, where land storage is available, is another potential market. Bloomberg

taking more and better promotions. In terms of migration, I think the major reason there has not been a greater deployment of Filipino workers to Portugal is that Portugal has alternative sources of migrant labor, those with a common language and with stronger historical and cultural ties to the country. Primarily, Brazil, a country of 200 million people, and which accounts for 40 percent of foreign workers in Portugal. Mobility agreements between Portugal and Brazil further

facilitates this migration. A lack of a bilateral labor agreement between the two countries has properly prevented greater labor mobility. It will likely be more important moving forward as Portugal experiences greater shortages in healthcare workers and other emerging labor needs, such as tech workers. Bilateral labor agreements spell-out specifics, skill recognition arrangements, language requirements, employment conditions, and opportunity for permanent

residence. More can be done to strengthen the economic ties between the two countries, building on previous agreements, including sector-specific cooperation, more intensive promotions, strengthening cultural ties, and forging a bilateral labor agreement.

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GROWING number of ships laden with Russia’s Urals oil are piling up off China, in the hope that independent refiners there will take the crude as Indian demand ebbs due to US sanctions.

At least five vessels carrying about 3.4 million barrels were idling in the Yellow Sea as of Wednesday, double the volume of last week and the highest level for the grade in that region in more than five years, according to data intelligence firm Kpler. The tankers are near Shandong province, where most of China’s private refin-

Eagle Watch. . . continued from A10

main export strengths or import demands. On FDI, there is less to say. There is probably a need for the Philippines to further improve its investment climate and provide more locational advantages, which means improving infrastructure, reducing energy costs, reducing corruption, making policies more predictable, and under-

Dr. Geoffrey Ducanes is Associate Professor at the Ateneo de Manila University and the Director of the Ateneo Center for Economic Research and Development.

A12 Friday, December 19, 2025

2nd Front Page BusinessMirror

DURIAN FRUIT INDUSTRY EYES 5K HAS. MORE FOR PRODUCTION By Manuel T. Cayon

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AVAO CITY—The durian fruit industry is expected to add more than 5,000 hectares as exports to China continue to rake profits for growers, an industry leader said on Thursday. New areas with durian planted have been reported in North Cotabato, a known fruit haven in Mindanao, with some growers cutting down some of their rubber trees in the towns of Makilala and Kidapawan, but many opening new areas for durian, such as in Arakan Valley. Durian, though, has been endemic to this province, along with fruits like lanzones, marang, rambutan and mangosteen, which have been identified with Davao City. Durian fruit was also reported being planted recently in Davao del Norte, in the towns of San Isidro, where cacao is also widely planted; and in Panabo City, where exportable banana is largely planted. The rich lands of Davao de Oro, formerly known as Compostela Valley, were also being allocated to durian, especially in the towns of Compostela, Montevista and Nabunturan. Davao Oriental, a known turf of coconut trees, have also seen durian being planted recently as with Davao del Sur, where the banana planter and exporter, Lapanday, has started cultivating durian in its plantations. Davao Occidental has

also tilled some of its agricultural areas for durian, in the towns of Malita and Don Marcelina. “Conservatively, total new durian areas may be around 5,000 hectares,” he told BusinessMirror after a news conference at the Hukad business forum at the Ayala Abreeza Mall here. Current total area devoted to durian is about 15,000 hectares. Expansion was observed only recently, Miculob said, after Davao City experimented in 2023 on persuading China to open its market to Davao durian other than Thailand, its traditional durian provider. “We were about only five then when we persuaded China to let our durian in its market,” he said. “Right now, there are 21 exporters here, with eight of them actively and regularly exporting to China.” Last year, Davao growers exported 35,000 metric tons, but dropped to only 5,000 metric tons due to the weather, he said. “Durian has been in its flowering period in summer but continuous heavy rains plucked the flowers away prematurely while the trees also went into a flushing period. This is the phase where the trees grow new leaves, which in turn, expelled their flowers rather than allowing them to turn into fruits.” This year, the annual fruit harvest festival, Kadayawan, was without fruits in their supposed season. See “Durian,” A2

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Biz groups pitch time-bound reforms to stop corruption

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By Andrea E. San Juan

MID the massive flood control mess and long-standing problems in government procurement, the business and good-governance community has proposed “time-bound reforms” to safeguard public resources especially in major infrastructure projects. Patterned after other countries’ strategies in reducing corruption, four business and civil society groups outlined their recommendations to the government which should start rolling on January 1,2026. “To safeguard public resources— especially in major infrastructure projects worth P50 million and above, aligned with the capabilities of the Modernized Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System [mPhilGEPS] and the expanded mandate of the Government Procurement Policy Board [GPPB]—we propose the following time-bound reforms, to begin on January 1, 2026,” the groups underscored.

First on the list is the Disclosure of Beneficial Ownership and Financial Red-Flagging. Under this initiative, the groups cited a need to “interconnect SEC and CDA beneficial ownership data and BIR tax records with mPhilGEPS to enable real-time verification; automatically flag suspicious payments.” The groups said the payment flags should begin on January 1 next year while the ownership disclosure should start on March 1. The groups said this initiative would work because it aligns with global (Anti-Money Laundering) AML standards, particularly limiting the use of shell companies.

By March 31, 2026, the groups added, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) should make publicly accessible online and linked to Modernized Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (mPhilGEPS) all disbursements and variations to contracts, emphasizing the importance of full transparency across the project life cycle. This initiative, the groups said, was tailored after the practices of United Kingdom and Chile, which noted that transparency is a “proven deterrent” to corruption. By April 1, 2026, the groups said the government should begin with the rapid response to red flags by initiating joint audits by Commission on Audit (COA), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), DPWH and AMLC within 90 days when warning signs appear and before funds are dissipated. In Hong Kong and Singapore, speed disrupts corruption networks, the groups noted. On June 30,2026, the government should have put in place a “Public Red Flag Dashboard,” particularly launching a public dashboard tracking delays, cost overruns, repeat contract winners, with

secure whistleblower channels. In Brazil and Estonia, the groups said, citizen oversight strengthens accountability. These proposals were born out of the pattern of corruption in the country, the groups indicated. Apart from the flood control scandal cited, the business and civil society groups said “These concerns echo earlier controversies—from the ZTE broadband deal and the Napoles pork barrel scam to the Pharmally procurement case—as well as recurring irregularities in large-scale infrastructure projects.” “Taken together, these cases reveal a troubling pattern: corruption flourishes where political patronage and dynastic influence intersect with opaque procurement processes, weak oversight, and poor accountability in the use of public funds,” the groups said. The four groups that penned the proposals and this joint statement are: Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), Institute For Solidarity in Asia (ISA), Justice Reform Initiative (JRI) and the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP). “Other countries have confronted similar challenges—and many have See “Biz groups,” A2

Independent Chinese travelers, seniors open new horizons for PHL By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Special to the BusinessMirror

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HOLIDAY TRAVEL WATCH Officials of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, together with the Department of Transportation, Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation

Franchising and Regulatory Board, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, conduct a joint inspection of bus terminals in Cubao, Quezon City, on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The inter-agency operation forms part of traffic and transport management measures to ensure commuter safety and orderly travel amid heavy passenger volume during the holiday season. NONOY LACZA

PSA to jobseekers: Use Natl ID when applying By Justine Xyrah Garcia

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HE Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has urged first-time jobseekers to maximize the National ID system as a valid proof of identification in employment applications. PSA Undersecretary Claire Dennis S. Mapa said the National ID can be used not only to access government services but also to support job applications, particularly as more processes shift to digital platforms.

“For first-time jobseekers, the National ID can serve as their key in accessing other government services and obtaining necessary documents that they will need in their work applications. The National ID is for free, which is also an advantage for those who are just starting their careers,” Mapa said. He also noted that even the Digital National ID, available through the eGovPH app, is also widely accepted as a valid proof of identity. The reminder comes after the preliminary results of the Sep-

tember 2025 Labor Force Survey showed an estimated 314,000 new entrants who joined the labor force were unable to find work. Assistant Secretary Rosalinda P. Bautista, deputy national statistician of the PhilSys Registry Office, likewise called on Filipinos who have yet to register for the National ID to do so, stressing that registration is free and relatively quick. She added that those already registered can access their Digital National ID anytime through

their mobile devices. “It is very easy and quick to register for the National ID. For those who have already registered, they can access their Digital National ID anywhere through their mobile devices,” Bautista said. As of October 31, the PSA said 90.29 million Filipinos have been successfully registered and verified under the National ID system, while 89.34 million Digital National IDs were already available for access via the eGovPH app as of November 6.

HINESE outbound travelers are becoming more independent, moving away from the usual tour groups, while a growing number of senior citizens are also making their presence felt in destinations abroad. These were the findings of Dragontail International’s Chinese Traveler Sentiment Report in September 2025, and released during a webinar on Wednesday as a guide to destinations, like the Philippines, on how to attract the market. Among other travel trends “include longer holidays, more visa relaxation, and significant shifts in consumer sentiment towards AI for travel, alongside widespread adoption of AI tools by the Chinese travel trade,” said Dragontail, a leading digital marketing and research firm specializing in the Chinese outbound tourism market. “We expect most of 2025’s trends to continue into next year, with a longerthan-ever Chinese New Year holiday starting from 15 February, and multiple new visa-related announcements from around the world this December,” such as Russia, which became visa-free for Chinese tourists and business travelers; Cambodia, which announced a visa-free trial period for 2026; and Brazil’s new e-visa system next year. The company also cited the reinstatement of the Philippines’ electronic visa system as among the improvements in entry systems that may encourage more Chinese citizens to visit. “Visa relaxation has been a key feature impacting the development of Chinese outbound tourism and destination choice in recent years, and 2025 saw many kinds of visa-related developments for countries all over the world,” said Dragontail’s Director of Marketing and Communications Sienna Parulis-Cook.

Hotspot destinations

MANILA rolled out its e-visa system for mainland China in November, a key source market for tourists until

the pandemic hit in 2020. The Philippines welcomed some 1.75 million Chinese tourists in 2019, but last year, their numbers dropped to 312,222. A major trend this year was the exploration of certain “hotspot destinations.” “The market has continued to be mostly regionally focused within Asia, though long-haul destinations have seen more dramatic growth. Until mid-November, Japan was the clear front-runner, exceeding pre-pandemic arrivals numbers from China consistently throughout the year. It was also a strong year for Vietnam, which emerged as a new Southeast Asia hotspot among Chinese travelers looking for fresh destinations,” she added. Also experiencing strong growth were destinations in Europe such as Norway and Iceland, along with Spain, which “pulled ahead of other Western European countries to surpass prepandemic traveler numbers and spending.” Central Asia was also popular for Chinese travelers this year because of its visa-free policies. Dragontail also noted a significant decline in traditional group tours, a trend noticed in 2024. “We now have more than half of Chinese travelers who planned an outbound trip this October saying they planned to travel independently, and just 27 percent opting for a group tour—this preference for FIT [freely independent travel] is even more pronounced among younger generations, with 71 percent of those aged 18-24 traveling independently,” said Parulis-Cook.

Longer holiday trips

MAINLAND Chinese also took longer trips during their public holidays this year, with Dragontail citing ForwardKeys data that showed recovery to prepandemic levels especially on flight bookings for September 22 to October 19. It also cited Ctrip’s recent report that indicated long stays as among defining trends in Chinese outbound travel in the third quarter of the year. See “Travelers,” A2

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Companies BusinessMirror

Friday, December 19, 2025

B1

PHL auto sector still upbeat despite lower sales in Nov S

Exec: BCDA scores another legal victory

D

By Andrea E. San Juan

@andreasanjuan

ESPITE the slight decline in vehicle sales in November, the auto industry remains optimistic of ending 2025 on a strong footing due to the expected surge in consumer activity during the last month of the year. According to a joint report by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (Campi) and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA), vehicle sales reached 420,776 in January to November, 1 percent lower than the 425,208 units sold in the same period a year ago. On a monthly basis, car sales also contracted as there were only 37,352 units sold in November 2025, 6.7 percent down from the 40,014 units sold in October 2025 and 8.7 percent down from the 40,898 units recorded in November 2024. “The industry remains optimistic as manufacturers prepare for the traditional surge in consumer

activity during the final month of the year,” Campi said in a statement on Thursday. Campi said the industry remains on a “solid footing,” backed by robust commercial vehicle demand and the accelerating shift toward electrified mobility. Moving forward, the industry group said it remains confident in the industry’s upward trajectory as manufacturers continue to expand their product offerings, enhance supply availability, and support the country’s transition toward sustainable mobility. In terms of vehicle segments, passenger cars continued to per-

form poorly as sales plummeted by 23.3 percent to 84,917 units from 110,645 units sold in the 11-month period last year. In January to November, passenger cars accounted for 20.18 percent share of the auto sales pie while commercial vehicles continued to dominate,cornering 79.82 percent of the cars sold in the 11-month period this year. Under the commercial vehicle segment, light commercial vehicles led the pack during the period with 246,959 units sold (73.53 percent) followed by Asian utility vehicles with 78,465 units (23.36 percent); light-duty trucks and buses with 6,257 units (1.86 percent); mediumduty trucks and buses with 3,311 units (0.99 percent), and heavy-duty trucks and buses with 867 units sold (0.26 percent). Across brands, Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. remained the dominant market player, with sales of 205,552 units in the 11-month period or a share of 48.85 percent followed by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. with 79,252 units sold (18.83 percent); Ford Group Philippines with 20,007 units (4.75 percent); Suzuki Philippines Inc. with 19,982 units (4.75 percent) and

Tanduay expands European footprint By VG Cabuag @villygc

T

HE flagship rum brand of Tanduay Distillers Inc. on Thursday said it is expanding its European footprint with a new distribution partnership in Denmark. It forged a collaboration with Bastard Spirits, a boutique distributor known for its premium-focused portfolio and deep expertise in navigating the regulated Nordic alcohol market, which includes Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. The partnership marks another step in Tanduay’s international push, as the brand continues to position itself strongly in regions where consumers are increasingly open to exploring new rum experiences. Established in 2021, Bastard Spirits has quickly built a reputation as a specialist in high-quality spirits distribution across the Nordic region. The company was founded by professionals with extensive experience in the industry, including sales backgrounds from large global brands and niche spirits ventures. “We are a premium-focused distributor,” Jesper Kjaer, international sales manager of Bastard Spirits,

said. “We curate a portfolio of highquality spirits and partner with select premium brands to ensure focus and exclusivity. At the same time, we offer flexible distribution solutions from long-term brand partnerships to bulk and stock-clearance programs. This adaptability is what makes us an ideal partner for brands entering the Nordic market.” Bastard Spirits’ distribution network covers physical wine and specialty shops such as Vild med Vin, Private Selection, and Rombo; leading online retailers including Ginbutikken and Vault of Spirits; and market segments ranging from fixed portfolio offerings to bulk sales and the premium gift market. Denmark’s spirits landscape has been shifting in recent years, with rum emerging as one of the categories benefiting from the decline of gin’s long-running dominance. “Younger consumers are becoming more open to rum, and we’re seeing increased interest from women as well,” Kjaer said. “Rum is seen as more approachable than whisky. Many start with sweeter profiles, and that helps expand the overall category.” This consumer trend creates a strong entry point for Tanduay, whose diverse portfolio ranges from

smooth-aged rum to bold overproof variants. For Kjaer, the decision to bring Tanduay into the Danish market was straightforward. “Tanduay has a very strong portfolio, great price points, and excellent support,” he said. “Their offerings simply don’t exist in the current Danish market, so it was easy to say yes to this opportunity.” He expects the Tanduay 10-YearOld Rum to gain broad consumer appeal, while the Tanduay Overproof will attract more advanced rum enthusiasts. “Tanduay will definitely become our main rum brand. The range, quality, and pricing give it a broad appeal across consumers and bars. We’ve had a very promising start, and we have high expectations for its development in Denmark.” “Denmark is an exciting market marked by curiosity and openness to new flavors,” said Roy Kristoffer Sumang, international business development manager of Tanduay Brands International Inc. “We see strong potential for Tanduay to thrive, especially with Bastard Spirits’ premium-focused distribution network and deep understanding of Nordic consumer preferences.”

Cebu Landmaster rental scheme gets nod

T

HE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved the rental pool agreements of companies owned by listed property developer Cebu Landmasters Inc. (CLI). During its en banc meeting, the SEC approved the registration statements of CLI Premier Hotel International Inc. for 180 rental pool agreements, and of YHES Premier Hotel Inc. for 263 rental pool agreements, subject to their compliance with remaining requirements. CLI Premier is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CLI, while YHES Premier is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Yuson Huang Excellence Soberano Inc., which in turn, is 50 percent owned by CLI. The rental pool agreements were

registered through the streamlined process for Securing and Expanding Capital in Real Estate NonTraditional Securities (SEC RENT). Rental pool agreements are investment contracts whereby the applicant sells or offers units in real estate projects such as condominiums, hotels, resorts or dormitories to prospective buyers on the condition that the buyers shall contribute the units, whether mandatory or optional, to a rental pool managed and operated by the applicant or a third-party operator. Buyers in rental pool agreements are entitled to receive a share in profits based on agreed conditions, typically through a share in the income earned by renting out the units to third parties.

CLI Premier Hotel’s rental pool agreements consist of 132 studio executive units, 47 one-bedroom units, and one two-bedroom service residential unit in its Citadines Cebu City project, which has been operational since September 2019. Unit owners who have fully paid their units are automatically eligible to join the rental program. The residential studio and one-bedroom units are priced between P4.9 million and P6.8 million per unit. Under the rental pool program, unit owners will receive 40 percent of net room revenue, distributed quarterly, with 10 complimentary nights of stay with breakfast annually, subject to availability. VG Cabuag

Nissan Philippines Inc. with 19,225 units (4.57 percent). The Campi-TMA sales report showed that 28,102 units of electric vehicles (EVs) were sold in January to November, accounting for 6.68 percent of the total auto sales. Of total EVs sold in the 11-month period, 22,027 units are hybrid electric vehicle (HEV); 4,261 units are battery electric vehicle (BEV), and 1,814 are plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Across hybrid EV brands, Toyota accounted for the lion’s share with 16,870 units sold followed by Honda Cars Philippines Inc., with 1,685 units and Ford Motor Co. Phils. Inc., with 1,099 units. As for battery EVs, Tesla Motors Philippines Inc., led the pack with 2,252 units sold followed by Nissan Philippines with 872 units sold and Omoda and Jaecoo Motor Philippines Inc. with 348 units sold. For plug-in hybrid EV, Omoda and Jaecoo Motor Philippines sold the most number of vehicles at 901 units followed by United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (Chery), with 552 units; Changan Auto (IC Automotive) with 182 units; and SMC Asia Car Distributors Corp. (BMW) with 88 units.

TATE-RUN firm Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said it has been securing “significant” legal victories as it pursues the revitalization and modernization of Camp John Hay in Baguio City. BCDA said Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 79 of Baguio City, in its recent rulings dismissed six petitions for Quieting of Title, Recovery of Possession, and a Promissory Estoppel case filed by private claimants involving properties within the John Hay Special Economic Zone. “This major legal victory prov ides long-ter m stabi lit y for investors and partners,” BCDA Chairperson Larry Paredes said in a statement. “With the legal framework now clear, we can move forward to realize Camp John Hay’s full potential as a world-class mountain estate and a key growth driver in Northern Luzon.” BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang added that the ruling “reinforces” Camp John Hay’s transformation. “Just as we built the successful models of Bonifacio Global City and New Clark City, we are now reinforcing Camp John Hay’s status as a premier investment destination.”

Further, Bingcang said the legal certainty achieved affirms that the Baguio tourist destination is a business environment “fortified by law, designed for resilience, and positioned for worldclass modernization.” T he state-run firm, meanwhile, said it is finalizing an updated master plan that positions Camp John Hay as a “selfsustaining, mixed-used” district integrating ecotourism, business, education, healthcare, and green infrastructure. “The blueprint draws from the successful models of Bonifacio Global City in Taguig and New Clark City in Tarlac, while preserving Camp John Hay’s unique character and natural landscape,” BCDA said. It assured that the redevelopment of Camp John Hay aims to attract “responsible” investors, create more jobs, improve local amenities, and ensure that economic growth directly benefits the people of Baguio and the surrounding communities. Andrea E. San Juan

Friday, December 19,19, 2025 B2 Thursday, B2 December 2025

Companies BusinessMirror

Office buildings in Taguig to expand portfolio of Mreit

M

By VG Cabuag

REIT Inc., the real estate investment trust of Megaworld Corp., will include in its portfolio nine office buildings from its sponsor through a propertyfor-share swap transaction, valued at P16.22 billion. The assets to be infused are Science Hub Towers 1, 3 and 4; 8 Campus Place Buildings A, B and C; One Campus Place Buildings A and B; and South East Asian Campus (SEAC). These are all office properties located within Peza-registered zones in McKinley Hill, Taguig. Several of these assets, including 8 Campus Place Buildings A and

B and SEAC, are LEED-certified, underscoring their alignment with internationally recognized sustainability standards. The infusion adds 165,477 square meters of gross leasable area (GLA) to MREIT’s portfolio, bringing its total office GLA to 646,891 square meters upon completion. “This latest infusion reflects

MREIT’s continued focus on scaling up with high-quality, income-generating assets in prime locations,” Jose Arnulfo Batac, Mreit’s president and CEO, said. “These assets further strengthen portfolio quality and support our objective of delivering stable and sustainable returns to our shareholders.” Following this transaction, Mreit said it will pursue another round of asset infusions within 2026, which is expected to increase its portfolio to approximately 750,000 square meters of GLA. As previously disclosed, the next tranche is expected to include select mall assets, further diversifying Mreit’s income base. These planned infusions form part of MREIT’s growth strategy to expand its portfolio with premium office assets and lifestyle malls, supporting its long-term target of 1 million square meters of GLA by 2027.

Megaworld said earlier it will start to infuse some 70,000 square meters of its shopping malls by next year into its listed real estate investment trust Mreit. Kevin Andew L. Tan, Megaworld’s executive director, said there will be two batches of infusion, possibly via a property for share swap, by next year. “We will add another 250,000 square meters, mostly malls and offices, but definitely (we will) put malls (into Mreit),” Tan said. Andy dela Cruz, the company’s investor relations officer, said the company is reviewing all the malls under Megaworld. “Because the goal is really to infuse everything under Megaworld, step by step. Of course, the target is 1 million square meters by 2027 so from now, that’s double our portfolio in two years to 2026 and then 2027,” dela Cruz said. “And then after that, there’s still a lot more assets from Megaworld.”

PLDT: Communities protected telco infra By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

P

LDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. recorded a 34-percent decline in cable theft apprehension incidents from January to November versus the same period last year, as the telecommunications group intensified community partnerships to protect its network infrastructure. The telco also reported a 24-percent decrease in apprehended suspects during the 11-month period, reflecting what it described as the

effectiveness of strengthened security measures and community engagement programs. Leo Gonzales, VP and head of property, facilities and asset resiliency management at PLDT and Smart, attributed the improvement to expanded collaboration with barangays through the “Bayanihan” asset protection project. “Our intensified collaboration with barangays this year highlights the importance of bringing communities into the conversation when it comes to protecting our network,” he said. The program has been rolled out

in Makati, Dagupan, Davao City, Liloan, Calamba, General Santos, Quezon City, Rodriguez in Rizal, Pasay, Cagayan de Oro and Dasmariñas this year. PLDT’s Asset Protection and Se-

curity Risk Governance Group has strengthened partnerships with local government units, police and communities nationwide to combat theft and vandalism targeting telecommunications equipment.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS Stocks FINANCIALS

ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK BANK COMMERCE BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK CITYSTATE BANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PB BANK PBCOM PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK PHILTRUST RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BRIGHT KINDLE COL FINANCIAL DOMINION HLDG FERRONOUX HLDG FILIPINO FUND NTL REINSURANCE PHIL STOCK EXCH SUN LIFE VANTAGE

INDUSTRIAL

ACEN CORP ALTERNERGY HLDG ABOITIZ POWER RASLAG BASIC ENERGY CITICORE RE FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG MERALCO MANILA WATER MAYNILAD PETRON PETROENERGY REPOWER ENERGY SEMIRARA MINING SYNERGY GRID SHELL PILIPINAS SPC POWER SP NEW ENERGY TOP LINE AGRINURTURE AXELUM CENTURY FOOD DEL MONTE DNL INDUS EMPERADOR SMC FOODANDBEV FIGARO GROUP ALLIANCE SELECT FRUITAS HLDG GINEBRA JOLLIBEE KEEPERS HLDG LIBERTY FLOUR MAXS GROUP MG HLDG MONDE NISSIN SHAKEYS PIZZA ROXAS AND CO RFM CORP SWIFT FOODS UNIV ROBINA VITARICH VICTORIAS CONCRETE A CONCREAT HLDG EC VULCAN MEGAWIDE SUPERCITY CROWN ASIA EUROMED PRYCE CORP UNIHOLDINGS CONCEPCION GREENERGY INTEGRATED MICR IONICS PANASONIC CIRTEK HLDG STENIEL

HOLDING & FRIMS

ABACORE CAPITAL ASIABEST GROUP AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV FJ PRINCE A FORUM PACIFIC GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP PRIME MEDIA REPUBLIC GLASS SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS

PROPERTY

ARTHALAND CORP AYALA LAND AYALA LAND LOG ALTUS PROP AREIT RT A BROWN CITYLAND DEVT CROWN EQUITIES CEB LANDMASTERS CENTURY PROP CITICORE RT DOUBLEDRAGON DDMP RT DM WENCESLAO EMPIRE EAST FILINVEST RT FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE GOLDEN MV PHIL INFRADEV KEPPEL PROP CITY AND LAND MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED MREIT RT OMICO CORP PREMIERE RT PRIMEX CORP RL COMM RT ROBINSONS LAND PHIL REALTY ROCKWELL SHANG PROP STA LUCIA LAND SM PRIME HLDG SUNTRUST RESORT VISTA LAND VISTAREIT RT

SERVICES

ABS CBN GMA NETWORK GLOBE TELECOM PLDT APOLLO GLOBAL CONVERGE DFNN INC DITO CME HLDG IMPERIAL ISLAND INFO NOW CORP TRANSPACIFIC BR ASIAN TERMINALS CHELSEA CEBU AIR INTL CONTAINER LBC EXPRESS MACROASIA PAL HLDG HARBOR STAR BOULEVARD HLDG DISCOVERY WORLD WATERFRONT CENTRO ESCOLAR FAR EASTERN U IPEOPLE STI HLDG BELLE CORP BLOOMBERRY PACIFIC ONLINE PH RESORTS GRP DIGIPLUS PHIL RACING PHILWEB ALLDAY ALLHOME METRO RETAIL PUREGOLD ROBINSONS RTL PHIL SEVEN CORP SSI GROUP UPSON INTL CORP WILCON DEPOT APC GROUP MEDILINES PAXYS PRMIERE HORIZON SBS PHIL CORP

MINING & OIL

ATOK APEX MINING ATLAS MINING BENGUET A COAL ASIA HLDG DIZON MINES FERRONICKEL GEOGRACE LEPANTO A LEPANTO B MANILA MINING A MARCVENTURES NICKEL ASIA OCEANAGOLD ORNTL PENINSULA PX MINING UNITED PARAGON ENEX ENERGY ORNTL PETROL A ORNTL PETROL B PHILODRILL PXP ENERGY

PREFFERED

ACEN PREF B AC PREF B3R ALCO PREF D BRN PREF A BRN PREF C CEB PREF CLI PREF A2 CPG PREF B DD PREF FDC PREF B JFC PREF B MWIDE PREF 5 MWIDE PREF 7A MWIDE PREF 7B PCOR PREF 4B SMC PREF 2I SMC PREF 2L SMC PREF 2N SMC PREF 2O SMC PREF 2S SMC PREF 2T TECH PREF B2C TECH PREF B2D VLL PREF 2A VLL PREF 2B

Value

Net Foreign Trade (Peso) Buy (Sell)

18,900 2,147,890 203,000 2,030,910 253,950 200 349,900 1,766,010 1,100 2,800 391,690 520 20 68,300 54,720 4,500 15,000 221,000 234,000 26,500 1,500 2,019,000 11,500 350 212,000

732,485 279,008,048 1,836,211 241,422,950 14,214,270.50 3,396 3,994,290 120,136,713 8,480 46,872 19,970,817.50 28,657 1,995 1,786,080 3,673,067.50 120,010 9,900 306,300 306,860 132,790 11,250 1,479,840 2,335,072 1,186,700 216,380

232,450 -44,291,452 35,342 -22,635,583 -4,559,302.50 20,558 12,397,602 -1,678 -13,798,799.50 -634,960 -1,267,088.50 -27,000 270 -10,000 865,352 1,169,700 -11,280

2.75 0.82 42.05 0.84 0.116 4.25 18.08 72.25 592 40.85 16.04 2.51 3.19 6.32 27.9 16.88 6.01 10.88 1.14 1.6 0.58 2.25 39.8 5.07 3.61 15.38 55 0.57 0.37 0.64 294.8 182 2.37 34.3 2.43 0.061 5.96 6.61 2.81 4.6 0.055 65 0.54 2.01 48.3 1.09 0.26 3.03 1.2 1.7 1.04 13 150.9 13.68 0.189 3.52 1 10.8 0.65 2.03

13,224,000 4,204,000 4,447,700 376,000 1,160,000 183,000 133,600 10,640 238,430 1,465,900 10,368,100 2,874,000 16,000 1,100 687,500 1,956,900 588,300 387,800 3,744,000 1,280,000 236,000 336,000 512,400 177,600 5,524,000 2,102,600 116,440 333,000 20,000 53,000 2,230 3,916,100 3,300,000 4,700 12,000 80,000 1,692,600 47,400 25,000 1,840,000 30,000 1,599,450 56,000 2,000 100 41,000 30,000 627,000 64,000 104,000 38,000 3,200 200 10,200 2,000,000 303,000 414,000 5,500 495,000 114,000

36,724,360 3,364,130 189,256,905 277,870 134,650 776,250 2,397,918 774,470 141,372,150 60,047,545 166,942,306 7,054,990 51,050 6,952 19,213,395 33,514,842 3,530,527 4,195,150 4,227,530 2,048,330 132,350 750,300 20,331,155 902,127 20,042,050 32,210,488 6,349,864 187,800 7,400 33,410 653,706 723,177,638 7,760,590 160,915 29,290 4,840 10,064,609 313,218 68,840 8,558,260 1,660 103,965,691.50 30,300 4,020 4,830 43,970 7,950 1,923,940 76,800 174,570 38,040 41,300 29,548 138,952 380,380 1,054,480 414,960 59,106 312,230 231,900

-1,443,000 3,192,740 20,309,135 -21,120 -299,622 127,020 28,683,630 42,251,230 -93,814,684 -603,070 -11,776,520 -7,995,896.00 1,576,653 3,167,118 27,420 -5,332,865 -349,949 -1,653,950 116,324 -3,402,460 -42,460.00 -3,700 -82,100 -20,898,675 -137,120 -7,310 2,440 794,353 -7,375,280 -560 -15,662,654 -14,170 2,650 12,940 -30,330 -

0.39 23.9 458.2 26 7.16 13.5 0.63 6.99 10.22 4.45 2.3 0.231 570.5 4.39 22.7 0.36 3.71 14.46 1.11 3.18 695 82 60.05 0.26

0.4 23.9 460 26 7.26 14 0.65 6.99 10.3 4.7 2.4 0.231 575 4.4 22.9 0.365 3.71 14.6 1.11 3.18 700 82.45 62 0.26

5,890,000 180,700 126,280 653,600 5,519,600 8,200 42,000 69,200 2,648,100 3,000 2,000 500,000 110,250 340,000 1,608,900 50,000 212,000 1,453,500 6,000 1,000 324,710 407,580 27,410 100,000

2,345,500 4,382,850 58,147,574 17,050,840 40,007,907 114,678 26,520 484,824 27,269,256 13,840 4,700 115,560 63,388,025 1,495,900 36,916,610 18,200 794,160 21,187,300 6,710 3,180 227,252,900 34,007,450 1,653,058 27,500

-1,955,950 -12,175,572 -10,811,045 6,035,576 -258,247 -2,132,576 -240 2,067,440 1,293,280 -771,900 1,982,206 -62,317,810 -5,449,528.50 2,600

0.42 22.6 1.35 8.41 43.1 1 0.58 0.078 2.36 0.68 3.62 9.27 1.03 5 0.106 3 0.77 0.64 1,025 0.38 2.47 0.52 2.12 0.93 14.06 0.105 1.03 1.3 8.07 16.2 0.107 1.73 3.43 2.45 23.6 0.63 0.93 1.39

0.42 21.75 1.31 8.41 42.7 0.98 0.57 0.078 2.32 0.64 3.57 9.1 1.01 4.91 0.106 2.98 0.75 0.64 998 0.325 2.47 0.51 2.02 0.89 13.88 0.1 1.01 1.16 7.9 16 0.107 1.68 3.4 2.44 22.4 0.6 0.9 1.34

0.42 22 1.34 8.41 43.1 0.99 0.57 0.078 2.36 0.67 3.6 9.27 1.02 5 0.106 2.99 0.77 0.64 1,025 0.34 2.47 0.52 2.04 0.91 14 0.1 1.03 1.3 7.9 16.02 0.107 1.71 3.42 2.45 22.5 0.6 0.91 1.35

10,000 6,730,000 26,000 1,200 1,053,700 2,826,000 74,000 10,000 38,000 2,158,000 528,000 243,700 8,436,000 7,300 100,000 679,000 1,508,000 1,001,000 50 570,000 1,000 12,000 25,871,000 31,450,000 754,100 130,000 306,000 3,409,000 14,318,400 1,164,100 10,000 504,000 554,000 5,000 6,562,600 5,000 143,000 292,000

4,200 148,678,765 34,490 10,092 45,227,215 2,805,860 42,200 780 89,480 1,424,280 1,899,080 2,251,876 8,600,200 36,405 10,600 2,027,430 1,138,940 640,640 50,440 193,950 2,470 6,230 53,572,980 29,071,790 10,556,720 13,070 312,560 4,314,050 113,901,204 18,686,852 1,070 857,320 1,889,860 12,220 148,460,480 3,050 132,070 394,960

-55,976,375 -13,100 -4,934,890 -28,500.00 7,750 309,560 490,969 565,080 -30,000 -1,582,840 -98,040 -100 10,306,140.00 -403,440 -90,282 1,050 2,570 47,566,375 12,271,358 -1,070 20,490 -45,757,455 -4,530 1,350

3.46 5.28 1,560 1,273 0.006 15.36 0.83 0.68 0.7 0.127 0.7 0.136 34.45 0.95 31.65 579.5 8.87 4.48 3.71 0.53 0.038 1.02 0.435 15.2 800.5 6.28 1.42 1.39 2.63 1.72 0.153 15.9 5.01 5.76 0.032 0.26 1.16 40 33.5 36.05 2.52 0.71 7 0.113 0.235 2.53 0.247 3.56

3.8 5.35 1,604 1,283 0.006 15.46 0.83 0.68 0.7 0.131 0.7 0.14 34.85 0.95 32.7 585 8.87 4.49 3.8 0.53 0.04 1.1 0.435 15.36 800.5 6.28 1.42 1.39 2.63 1.72 0.153 15.9 5.01 5.97 0.033 0.26 1.16 40.2 33.5 36.25 2.52 0.72 7 0.113 0.25 2.53 0.249 3.56

3.46 5.25 1,555 1,262 0.0055 15.04 0.82 0.65 0.7 0.123 0.68 0.132 34.45 0.93 31.65 575.5 8.87 4.45 3.71 0.52 0.038 0.85 0.435 15.2 800.5 6.28 1.39 1.33 2.58 1.7 0.126 15.16 5.01 5.67 0.032 0.25 1.16 39 32.9 35.55 2.52 0.71 6.95 0.111 0.235 2.53 0.235 3.56

3.58 5.35 1,604 1,270 0.0055 15.04 0.82 0.65 0.7 0.124 0.69 0.136 34.55 0.95 32.45 576 8.87 4.48 3.8 0.52 0.04 1.09 0.435 15.36 800.5 6.28 1.39 1.33 2.58 1.7 0.143 15.2 5.01 5.8 0.032 0.26 1.16 39 33 36 2.52 0.72 7 0.111 0.25 2.53 0.24 3.56

583,000 71,700 36,810 95,600 737,000,000 4,772,300 30,000 10,712,000 15,000 2,650,000 326,000 1,510,000 97,900 16,000 46,600 1,155,770 300 89,000 11,000 106,000 3,800,000 719,000 10,000 17,200 80 200 1,749,000 56,000 23,691,000 60,000 2,960,000 9,749,500 600 2,626,000 16,100,000 300,000 11,000 742,000 262,400 10,100 105,000 18,000 299,900 350,000 160,000 1,000 670,000 3,000

2,128,130 378,901 58,401,930 121,440,510 4,176,400 72,766,616 24,880 7,067,980 10,500 334,350 223,280 201,490 3,384,640 15,140 1,490,605 668,802,255 2,661 397,910 41,700 55,130 146,300 686,000 4,350 261,552 64,040 1,256 2,446,410 74,780 61,484,770 102,410 394,210 151,299,840 3,006 15,089,796 516,200 76,100 12,760 29,179,710 8,676,575 362,905 264,600 12,810 2,093,793 39,150 38,800 2,530 162,480 10,680

-22,443,650 -44,859,080 23,200 1,360,094 -24,880 -2,594,390 1,240 9,370 -924,215 180,245 20,457,855 205,210 3,710 -530 376,900 8,005 -1,256 -21,333,800 1,710 -7,710 -43,327,870 7,357,770 -384,000 -9,930,100 -5,669,915 -140,235 9,940 -80,472 -18,800 2,530 3,560

2.06 11.78 5.64 4.43 0.026 4.7 1.15 0.09 0.179 0.179 0.0073 0.69 3.51 30.2 0.385 10 0.0054 3.37 0.012 0.012 0.009 2.43

2.06 12 5.6 4.43 0.03 4.7 1.15 0.084 0.18 0.179 0.0072 0.69 3.6 30.05 0.39 9.9 0.005 3.24 0.011 0.011 0.009 2.4

2.06 12.16 5.6 4.45 0.031 4.7 1.17 0.09 0.18 0.18 0.0072 0.69 3.6 30.9 0.39 10.04 0.0054 3.38 0.011 0.012 0.0091 2.45

2 11.72 5.55 4.42 0.025 4.7 1.13 0.083 0.177 0.178 0.0072 0.68 3.5 30.05 0.39 9.88 0.005 3.22 0.011 0.011 0.009 2.4

2 11.78 5.6 4.42 0.026 4.7 1.13 0.09 0.177 0.178 0.0072 0.69 3.5 30.2 0.39 10 0.0054 3.38 0.011 0.012 0.0091 2.42

30,000 5,667,400 93,900 345,000 73,100,000 28,000 903,000 70,000 19,610,000 2,240,000 2,000,000 298,000 4,286,000 2,344,600 20,000 2,502,200 38,000,000 6,000 6,400,000 500,000 12,000,000 248,000

60,160 67,448,360 522,832 1,525,770 1,968,300 131,600 1,037,000 6,110 3,501,870 402,690 14,400 202,680 15,076,720 71,267,750 7,800 24,900,857 203,000 19,530 70,400 5,800 108,200 604,010

-9,061,638 -28,000 -14,100 -331,960 -701,870 -2,612,125 -3,155,652 3,240 -19,400

1,065 2,010 490 99.35 105.5 33.8 1,065 102.4 96 1,008 995 102 100.5 105 1,040 75.75 79.05 80.8 80.5 76 79.5 12.96 8.3 91 91.95

1,065 2,002 471 99.35 105.5 33.8 1,068 102.5 96.3 1,004 995 102 100.4 103 1,000 75.8 79 80 80.5 73.5 79.5 13 8.32 91.9 90.2

1,065 2,002 485 99.35 105.5 33.8 1,070 102.5 96.3 1,004 995 102 100.4 103 1,000 75.8 79 80 80.5 75.2 79.5 13 8.32 91.9 90.2

1,060 2,002 471 98 103 33.75 1,068 102.5 96 1,004 995 102 100.4 103 1,000 75.75 79 80 79.2 72 79.5 12.12 8 91.9 90

1,065 2,002 485 98 103 33.8 1,070 102.5 96 1,004 995 102 100.4 103 1,000 75.75 79 80 80.4 75 79.5 12.12 8.1 91.9 90

570 40 10,940 1,060 80 600 300 3,000 92,700 650 10 30 70 5,620 330 980 15,410 4,140 68,740 19,610 80 900 8,300 40 1,350

605,550 80,080 5,291,640 103,893.50 8,280 20,260 320,800 307,500 8,903,953 652,600 9,950 3,060 7,028 578,860 330,000 74,282.50 1,217,390 331,200 5,500,310 1,446,352 6,360 11,536 66,716 3,676 121,683

-145,440 25,920 225,600 -3,676 -

3.99 5.16

3.1 5.05

3.1 5.05

3.1 5.05

3.1 5.05

2,000 1,000

6,200 5,050

-

0.335 1.04 0.91 0.039 0.405 0.248 3.05

0.345 1.08 0.92 0.042 0.41 0.255 3.08

0.365 1.08 0.91 0.042 0.405 0.255 3.03

0.365 1.09 0.92 0.042 0.405 0.255 3.1

0.33 1.04 0.91 0.042 0.405 0.255 3.03

0.345 1.08 0.92 0.042 0.405 0.255 3.08

330,000 168,000 5,000 300,000 30,000 110,000 13,000

110,350 176,210 4,560 12,600 12,150 28,050 39,680

-3,600 9,090

99.4

99.5

99.7

99.9

99.4

99.4

9,190

915,265

-292,406

Bid

Ask

Open

38.85 130.1 8.78 118.7 56 16.98 11.42 68 7.7 16.56 50.85 55 97.1 26 67 26.5 0.65 1.39 1.34 4.9 7.5 0.73 203 3,360 1.01

38.95 130.6 9.2 118.9 56.05 18.38 11.5 68.05 7.79 16.74 51 55.3 100 26.05 67.5 26.9 0.66 1.4 1.35 5.28 7.98 0.75 203.2 3,440 1.04

38.9 129 9 119.9 55.5 16.98 11.46 68.1 7.8 16.34 50.9 55.1 99.5 26.1 66.8 26.9 0.66 1.35 1.24 5.17 7.5 0.71 202.4 3,360 1.02

38.95 130.6 9.3 120 56.4 16.98 11.6 68.4 7.8 16.8 52 55.4 100 26.85 68 26.9 0.66 1.42 1.35 5.29 7.5 0.75 203.2 3,400 1.04

38.5 128 8.62 118.5 55.05 16.98 11.4 67.15 7.7 16.34 50.85 55 99.5 25.6 66.8 26.4 0.66 1.35 1.24 4.9 7.5 0.71 202.4 3,360 1.01

38.95 130.6 9.2 118.7 56 16.98 11.42 68.05 7.7 16.78 50.85 55.3 100 26 67 26.9 0.66 1.4 1.35 4.9 7.5 0.75 203 3,400 1.01

2.74 0.8 42.05 0.79 0.114 4.25 17.76 72.25 591 40.85 16.04 2.45 3.19 6.32 27.9 16.86 6.01 10.76 1.11 1.59 0.56 2.23 39.6 5.07 3.61 15.32 54.5 0.56 0.37 0.63 290 182 2.35 34.2 2.36 0.061 5.95 6.61 2.74 4.6 0.051 64.9 0.54 1.8 48.3 1.07 0.265 3.03 1.2 1.66 1 12.8 139 13.58 0.188 3.5 0.99 10.7 0.65 2.03

2.75 0.82 42.85 0.84 0.116 4.28 18.08 73 592 40.95 16.2 2.51 3.28 6.39 28 16.88 6.02 10.88 1.14 1.6 0.58 2.25 39.8 5.16 3.63 15.38 55 0.57 0.39 0.64 294.8 182.9 2.37 34.3 2.44 0.067 5.96 6.65 2.81 4.65 0.055 65 0.55 2.08 53 1.09 0.275 3.13 1.69 1.04 12.9 150.8 13.68 0.193 3.51 1 10.8 0.66 2.09

2.88 0.83 43.8 0.81 0.116 4.24 17.8 73 597 41 16.44 2.4 3.2 6.32 28.1 16.74 6 10.86 1.12 1.62 0.56 2.2 39.2 5.24 3.68 15.22 54 0.56 0.37 0.64 295.2 187.5 2.36 34.25 2.44 0.06 5.89 6.61 2.74 4.65 0.056 64.75 0.55 2.01 48.3 1.09 0.27 3.03 1.2 1.67 1 13 145 13.78 0.191 3.45 1.01 10.64 0.62 2.04

2.88 0.83 44 0.84 0.119 4.28 18.18 73 598 41.5 16.44 2.51 3.2 6.32 28.5 17.26 6.01 10.88 1.14 1.65 0.58 2.25 39.8 5.24 3.7 15.4 55 0.57 0.37 0.64 295.2 187.8 2.39 34.4 2.45 0.061 6.05 6.61 2.82 4.7 0.056 65.45 0.55 2.01 48.3 1.09 0.27 3.15 1.2 1.7 1.04 13 151.9 13.78 0.194 3.52 1.02 10.8 0.65 2.04

2.73 0.8 42 0.7 0.114 4.11 17.72 72.25 588.5 40.35 16.04 2.37 3.19 6.32 27.8 16.74 5.99 10.6 1.11 1.55 0.55 2.2 39.1 5.07 3.6 15.22 53.05 0.56 0.37 0.63 289 180.9 2.34 34.2 2.43 0.06 5.89 6.6 2.74 4.58 0.055 64.55 0.54 2.01 48.3 1.06 0.26 3.02 1.2 1.67 1 12.8 139 13.58 0.186 3.45 1 10.64 0.62 2.03

0.39 23 460 26 7.26 14 0.63 6.99 10.28 4.54 2.3 0.25 575 4.2 22.9 0.345 3.71 14.56 1.11 2.51 700 82.35 61.25 0.26

0.4 23.9 461 26.05 7.27 14.24 0.65 7.02 10.3 4.79 2.4 0.275 575.5 4.4 23 0.365 3.75 14.6 1.16 3.18 700.5 82.45 62 0.31

0.4 24.6 466.4 26.35 7.26 13.5 0.63 7 10.22 4.45 2.3 0.232 575 4.39 23.5 0.36 3.75 14.46 1.16 3.18 705 84 60.05 0.31

0.41 24.6 467 26.4 7.3 14 0.65 7.03 10.32 4.7 2.4 0.232 579.5 4.4 23.5 0.365 3.75 14.68 1.16 3.18 708 84.2 62 0.31

0.41 21.9 1.34 8.41 42.95 0.98 0.57 0.074 2.32 0.66 3.59 9.26 1.01 4.91 0.104 2.98 0.75 0.63 998 0.33 2.18 0.51 2.03 0.89 13.96 0.101 1.01 1.24 7.89 16.02 0.103 1.69 3.4 2.31 22.5 0.6 0.91 1.34

0.42 22 1.35 8.61 43.1 0.99 0.58 0.078 2.36 0.67 3.6 9.28 1.02 5 0.106 2.99 0.77 0.64 1,025 0.36 2.47 0.52 2.04 0.91 14 0.109 1.03 1.3 7.9 16.04 0.11 1.72 3.42 2.45 22.7 0.63 0.92 1.35

0.42 22.6 1.31 8.41 43.1 1 0.58 0.078 2.36 0.68 3.57 9.13 1.03 5 0.106 2.99 0.75 0.64 998 0.365 2.47 0.52 2.02 0.91 13.88 0.105 1.02 1.21 8.04 16.06 0.107 1.72 3.42 2.45 23.1 0.63 0.93 1.35

3.54 5.3 1,604 1,266 0.0054 15.04 0.78 0.65 0.7 0.123 0.67 0.131 34.55 0.93 31.9 575.5 8.1 4.43 3.75 0.51 0.039 1.01 0.415 15.28 800 5.96 1.39 1.32 2.57 1.7 0.133 15.2 5.05 5.8 0.031 0.25 1.15 38.95 32.95 35.95 2.52 0.7 6.96 0.11 0.245 2.52 0.236 3.57

3.58 5.35 1,605 1,270 0.0056 15.08 0.82 0.67 0.83 0.128 0.69 0.136 34.8 0.95 32.45 576 8.5 4.48 3.8 0.52 0.04 1.09 0.44 15.36 814.5 6.28 1.41 1.36 2.58 1.76 0.143 15.26 7.2 5.85 0.032 0.26 1.16 39 33 36 2.54 0.72 7 0.111 0.25 2.62 0.24 3.66

1.99 11.72 5.6 4.42 0.025 4.6 1.13 0.083 0.177 0.178 0.0072 0.68 3.5 30.15 0.37 9.9 0.005 3.25 0.011 0.011 0.0088 2.42 1,062 2,000 485 98 102.2 33.75 1,060 100.1 95.95 1,004 974 100.3 100.4 100.3 1,000 75 79 80 80.4 75 76.5 12.12 8.1 82.4 86.5

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Banking&Finance

Merger of subsidiaries receives BPI Board’s OK By VG Cabuag

@villygc

T

HE board of Ayala-led Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), has authorized the management to pursue plans to merge BPI Direct Banko Inc. and Legazpi Savings Bank Inc. BPI Direct will become the surviving entity, subject to the consideration and approval of their respective boards of directors and stockholders, read the disclosure of the country’s third-largest lender. “A merger between the two BPI subsidiaries will result in a stronger and more resilient capital structure for the combined entity, leading to a more efficient use of capital,” the bank said. Consolidating the two institutions is expected to support longterm sustainability, capital adequacy and operational flexibility, the disclosure further reads. The merger is projected to deliver meaningful improvements in operational efficiency and overall client experience through: enhanced operational efficiency and material cost synergies; a unified governance and risk-management framework; and improved technological integration and digital capabilities. “These enhancements are expected to elevate service quality across

the merged organization’s client base,” according to the BPI. The lender added it expects the consolidation of the subsidiaries wou;d optimize resource deployment and strengthen BPI group’s competitive position in key markets. The integration will reinforce market presence and improve customer acquisition and retention for the merged bank. BPI Direct, the microfinance arm of BPI, earlier said it selected ACI Worldwide Inc. to advance the Ayalaled bank’s payment infrastructure. Under this partnership, BPI Direct will implement ACI’s issuing and acquiring platform, enabling banks, fintechs and merchants to deliver fast, omnichannel transaction processing while staying compliant with evolving regulatory standards. “We use technology to improve the way banking works for Filipinos. By advancing digital payment solutions with our customers and communities in mind, we aim to make financial services more accessible and empowering for Filipinos nationwide,” BPI Direct President Rodolfo K. Mabiasen Jr. has said. “Our switching network is one of the most important touchpoints for our customers. This partnership with ACI is crucial in building a reliable, future-ready payments system,” Mabiasen added.

IC lifts cease, desist order vs HMO MEDOCare Health

T

HE Insurance Commission (IC) has revoked its cease-anddesist order (CDO) against MEDOCare Health Systems Inc. (MEDOCare), clearing the way for the health maintenance organization (HMO) to resume operations. In a notice to the public, IC said it has lifted the order issued against MEDOCare effective December 16, 2025. Consequently, the IC has also released the HMO from conservatorship. MEDOCare was placed under conservatorship by the IC last July for its “continued non-compliance” with the product approval requirements under Circular Letter . 2017-19. The circular states the guidelines for ensuring that products offered to the public meet minimum standards to protect policyholders and promote transparency within the industry. MEDOCare was also ordered to cease and desist from transacting

any new insurance business of any kind or character. MEDOCare is part of the EU Group of Companies and has been in operation since January 2003, covering a million beneficiaries. Available data from the IC showed MEDOCare accumulated assets amounting to P374.754 million, while its capital stock reached P167.637 million as of the first quarter of 2025. MEDOCare posted a net income of P12.559 million as of the first quarter of the year, higher by 252.68 percent year-on-year from P3.561 million. The HMO’s revenues more than doubled to P54.297 million as of the first quarter from P23.352 million in the same period last year. The IC has the authority to place a firm under conservatorship if it deems an HMO or an insurance company unable or unwilling to fulfill its obligations to policyholders. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

BusinessMirror

Association World Octavio Peralta Part two

M

Y booth visits and businessto-business (B2B) meetings at the Japan MICE Expo 2025 offered a refreshing look at Japan’s growing commitment to promote, not only its major cities, but also its lesser-known destinations, as thriving hubs for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). While Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka often headline Japan’s business events map, the Expo highlighted a deeper, more deliberate strategy: empowering regional cities to host international associations seeking immersive, sustainable and culturally distinctive MICE experiences. Kagoshima immediately stood out with its dramatic landscape dominated by the Sakurajima volcano. This natural icon is more than a backdrop; it shapes the city’s identity and inspires venues that blend nature,

B3

Sued, probed financial execs disqualified past 5 yrs—BSP

B

By Reine Juvierre Alberto

@reine_alberto

ANK and non-bank financial institution executives with unresolved court cases or regulatory probes will no longer be automatically delisted after five years, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The BSP issued Circular 1226 (series of 2025) to amend the regulations on the disqualification of directors and officers. The original rules cite that the temporary delisting will

begin from the time the BSP officially notifies the individual and generally lasts for five years, after which automatic delisting may take effect. However, the BSP said individu-

als with unresolved legal or regulatory issues will remain disqualified beyond the five-year period. Affected bank and non-bank financial institution directors and officers must formally apply for delisting and submit documentary proof showing that cases filed against them were resolved in their favor or that they were cleared by appropriate authorities. The latter includes courts, quasi-judicial bodies, domestic regulators or relevant foreign authorities. The Monetary Board (MB) shall then make the determination whether to approve or disapprove the delisting request. The amendments also allow the MB to block automatic delisting based on an assessment of a person’s fitness and propriety to serve as a director or

officer of a bank or quasi-bank. The BSP further said that individuals confirmed to be deceased will be automatically delisted upon submission of proof of death. The revised delisting provisions will apply retroactively, covering individuals previously disqualified under existing regulations. Temporary disqualification of persons will commence from the time they were officially advised by the BSP of their disqualification and shall be in effect for a period of five years, after which the said person shall be automatically delisted. The BSP neither disclosed the number of bankers and financial executives to be affected by the new rules nor cited specific cases with the implementation of Circular 1226.

Govt employees may get Marcos cites SSS’s loan, bonus, cash incentives payment halt initiatives

T

HE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the grant of gratuity pay for contract-of-service (COS) and job-order (JO) workers, as well as the productivity enhancement incentive (PEI) for government employees. This after Acting Secretary Rolando U. Toledo issued Budget Circular 2025-4 advising all government agencies on the guidelines for the grant of the one-time bonus and incentive reward. For the gratuity pay of up to P7,000, COS and JO workers must have rendered at least four months of actual satisfactory performance and must have an active contract as of December 15, 2025. Those who served for a shorter period may still receive the benefit on a pro-rated basis, with gratuity pay ranging from P4,000 to P6,000, depending on length of service. The circular covers COS and JO workers directly engaged by national government agencies, constitutional offices with fiscal autonomy, state universities and colleges, government-owned or -controlled corporations, and local water districts. However, institutional COS workers, such as those hired through contractors for janitorial or security services, are excluded from the grant.

For national government agencies and state universities, the gratuity pay will be charged against available maintenance and other operating expenses. Government-owned firms and local water districts will source the funds from their approved corporate operating budgets. Local government units are encouraged to adopt the benefit through a supplemental budget, subject to the availability of funds. “We thank President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his approval, which enables the continued grant of the Productivity Enhancement Incentive. This reflects our shared commitment in recognizing performance, professionalism, and the vital role of public servants,” Toledo was quoted in a statement as saying. In a separate circular, the DBM also authorized the release of PEI to qualified government employees. The PEI, which is part of the government’s Total Compensation Framework, will be granted at a uniform rate of P5,000, and is payable not earlier than December 15, 2025. The DBM said the incentive is a reward for exceeding agency and financial performance targets, and to motivate employee efforts toward higher productivity. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

Beyond Japan’s Gateways: Discovering Emerging MICE destinations at the Japan MICE Expo 2025 wellness, and modern facilities. For associations exploring themes like resilience, sustainability or geoscience, Kagoshima offers a compelling narrative as well as ample accommodation and convention-ready infrastructure. In contrast, Hida-Takayama provides an atmosphere of timeless Japan. Its preserved Edo-era streets and strong craftsmanship traditions make it ideal for association retreats, leadership programs, or incentive events that prioritize authenticity. Destinations like this remind planners that MICE events can double as cultural learning journeys. Ise-Shima, known for the Ise Grand Shrine, presents a balance of spirituality, nature, and luxury. Its resort-style convention facilities are well-suited for association meetings that aim to combine business with restorative experiences. Its scenic coastline also supports sustainability-focused congresses and incentive programs that value calm, inspiration, and heritage. Tokushima adds another flavor with its famous Awa Odori dance festival and commitment to communitydriven culture. Associations in the creative, cultural, or performing arts sectors will find Tokushima’s local engagement and energetic identity ideal

Editor: Dennis D. Estopace • Friday, December 19, 2025

for interactive programs and festivals. Meanwhile, Saga positions itself as a hub of ceramics, craftsmanship, and rural innovation. Conversations at the booth revealed its growing push for business events that integrate handson experiences, from pottery-making to farm-to-table programs, perfect for associations seeking experiential incentive itineraries. Miyazaki, with its coastline, mild climate, and broad leisure offerings, brings a resort-style appeal similar to Okinawa but with a quieter, more focused environment. Its well-developed sports and training facilities also support events in health, sports science, and wellness sectors. Tokoname, historically a pottery center, is strategically located near Chubu Centrair International Airport, making it surprisingly accessible for international groups. Its pottery villages and design-forward spaces allow associations to craft programs around art, tradition, and creativity. The charming canal city of Kurashiki, with its Bikan Historical District, appeals to associations that value heritage and boutique-style events. Its museums and cultural quarters allow for high-quality offsite visits and learning excursions. It is also known as the birthplace of jeans in Japan.

Kitakyushu, one of Japan’s early modern industrial cities, has transformed itself into a global model for environmental innovation. Its Green Future initiatives and technologically advanced conference venues make it particularly attractive for associations in sustainability, engineering, and industry transformation. Karuizawa, a mountain resort town, offers cool climate, luxury hotels, and serene landscapes, ideal for executive retreats, board meetings, and incentive travel. Its accessibility from Tokyo via Shinkansen makes it a convenient yet refreshing alternative. Finally, Utsunomiya, added another refreshing dimension to my Expo experience. Known for its famed gyoza and its emerging identity as Japan’s “Bicycle City,” Utsunomiya is positioning itself as a dynamic MICE hub just under an hour from Tokyo via Shinkansen. Its proximity to Nikko’s UNESCO heritage sites also enables rich pre- and post-event options.

Octavio Peralta is founder and volunteer CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives, the “association of associations.” The views he expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror. E-mail: bobby@ pcaae.org.

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

P

RESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. put into the spotlight new policies and programs of the Social Security System (SSS). In a video message posted on his social media page last Thursday, the chief executive announced a new low-interest emergency loan and a six-month moratorium on loan payments for qualified SSS members. Marcos said those who would avail of the new emergency loan will only be required to pay a 7 percent interest. “Starting this December, the SSS will be able to provide what is called an emergency loan for those, for example, under national emergency,” the President said in Filipino. Marcos said he hopes the new program will provide financial support to those who are in need and they would not have to resort to dealing with loan sharks, such as those engaged in the “5-6” scheme, who charged as much as 20 percent interest rates for short-term loans. “This is good because instead of going to 5-6 and getting into deep debt, you now have something to use and only have to pay seven percent,” the President said.

On its web site, the SSS said its Emergency Loan Program will be made available to Philippine residents, who are affected by the State of National Calamity through Presidential Proclamation or its equivalent. The applicants must also have at least 36 months contributions, six months of which should be posted within the last 12 months prior to the month of the filing application. For self-employed members and voluntary members, including overseas Filipino workers, they must have at least six monthly contributions under their current membership type prior to the month of loan application. The program will last one year from the date it was announced. Marcos said the SSS will implement a moratorium for loan payments. “This means that when you receive a loan from the SSS, for six months – for the first six months, you do not have to pay for loan amortization to lighten your [financial] burden,” he said. The chief executive said he will continue to coordinate with SSS to provide its members with “safe and just” micro loans and emergency loans.

Sustainable financing backs PHL energy transition­—ING

I

NG Bank NV believes sustainable financing is supporting the Philippine energy sector’s accelerated transition into renewables, despite majority of power coming from fossil fuels. According to ING’s director for Sustainable Solutions Group in Asia Pacific, the region’s sustainable finance market is “demonstrating remarkable resilience.” “What we’re seeing across the region is a fundamental shift in how clients see sustainability, from a compliance requirement to a driver of business value and competitive advantage,” Diana Tang said. According to Tang, the Dutch multinational lender sees the $345-billion sustainable finance issuances during the first three quarters of the year as signaling “continued growth” since 2021, putting the region on track for another record year. “Even against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty and shifting policy signals, sustainable finance has proven remarkably resilient,” said Deepali Bhargava, head of research and chief economist for ING APAC. According to these executives, the Philippines is capitalizing on the momentum in the APAC region with measurable progress in its energy transition. They pointed to the Department of Energy’s (DOE) energy roadmap as setting out an ambitious target of 35 percent renewable energy share in the power generation mix by 2030 and 40 percent by 2040 under the “Clean Energy Scenario.” This is spurring renewables growth, and in turn the growth of the sustainable

finance market, with year-to-date issuances exceeding $10 billion, ING said. The country’s “Green Energy Auction” also secured commitments for approximately 10.2 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity, ING cited. Moreover, the Philippines’s data center market is experiencing “robust growth,” ING said, with the country targeting 1 gigawatt of hyperscale data center capacity by 2026. The government has actively urged hyperscale data centers to adopt green practices, with the DOE’s “Green Energy Option” program enabling large electricity consumers, including data centers, to source power directly from renewable energy suppliers. Leading facilities in the country are also already transitioning to 100 percent renewable energy operations, ING added. “This alignment between data center growth and renewable energy infrastructure creates significant opportunities for sustainable finance solutions that support both digital transformation and climate objectives,” ING said. “The global sustainable finance market’s resilience creates a strong foundation for growth in our Philippine operations,” ING N.V. Manila Branch Manager Leoncio Palanca Jr. was quoted as saying in a statement. “We’re seeing increased client interest in sustainable finance products across multiple sectors, and we’re responding by strengthening our local team’s expertise and expanding our product offerings,” Palanca added. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

B4

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Friday, December 19, 2025 • Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

BusinessMirror

businessmirror.lifestyle@gmail.com • www.businessmirror.com.ph

TODAY’S HOROSCOPE By Eugenia Last

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Jake Gyllenhaal, 45; Marla Sokoloff, 45; Alyssa Milano, 53; Tyson Beckford, 55. HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Take your time, look at every angle and determine which journey is in your best interest. Take the lead and secure your position. Refuse to let impatience and desires overrule common sense and a plan that ensures a suitable outcome. Options are plentiful this year. Linger, ponder, and choose each move with peace of mind and your destination within reach. Know what you want and dismiss temptation that deviates from your goal. Your numbers are 3, 12, 22, 27, 34, 38, 43.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): An open mind and heart

will help you fulfill your aspirations. Communication followed by action will lead to a realization that enables you to adopt lifestyle changes, encouraging lower overhead and mental freedom through debt relief. Live within your means, and you’ll find joy and gratitude in simplicity. ★★★★★

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Refuse to let what others choose to do confuse you. When it comes to your future decisions, it’s best to fine-tune what you want to your liking. If you are going to alter your journey, do so for the right reasons. Pick the lane that sparks your imagination and offers a crystal-clear message, guiding you in the most compatible direction. ★★★ CLOCKWISE from top: Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Slow Food International President Edward Mukiibi check out the Street Food area at the opening of the Terra Madre Asia & Pacific (TMAP) on November 19, 2025. Rice varieties across the region at the Foodways of Asia tent. Tasting of Indonesian coffee. Held at the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol Lagoon in Bacolod City, the five-day TMAP attracted over 2,000 delegates from across the region.

THE Street Food area hosted communities savoring various dishes and different produce from across the Philippines and from destinations like Japan and Korea. At the BARMM stall, a cooking demo of Dadal Muntia, a deep-fried pastry from Maguindanao. Kinalot Red Rice with native chicken, vegetables and mushroom from CAR.

CHEF Precious Pearl Portia Mendoza-Valdez and assistant chef Blademir Gabonado slice into a GenSan tuna, the featured ingredient in a cooking demonstration. The premium sashimi pieces were used to make Tuna Nigiri (in photo), Tuna Sashimi, and Tuna Teppanyaki. PHOTOS FROM STELLA ARNALDO, DOT, TMAP

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Push forward with

strength and courage. Do what you do best, and talk your way forward with honesty, integrity and a valid plan that doesn’t promise more than you can deliver. It’s how you promote yourself with charm and eloquence that will get people on board with your plans. ★★★

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Take advantage of an

Why Slow Food felt right at home in Bacolod

opportunity to communicate with those who can help you advance. Events that blend business with pleasure will serve as a platform to demonstrate that your talents extend well beyond your qualifications. Innovative input, combined with dedication and a disciplined approach to authenticity and staying up to date, will pay off. ★★★

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Learn from experience, and prepare to use work-related functions to make headway in your chosen field. Charm the boss or approach the head of a group you want to join, and start a dialogue that offers a unique take on prospects. Offer enough to intrigue, and you’ll make an impression that pays off. ★★★

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HE Terra Madre Asia & Pacific (TMAP) was a great success, putting focus on Bacolod City and Negros Occidental as the hub of the Slow Food movement in the Philippines, and in the

region. Founded in Italy in 1989 by a group of food activists, Slow Food has become a global grassroots movement committed to championing clean, good and fair food, preserving indigenous food culture, and encouraging a deeper understanding of food’s role in society. It emphasizes the vital role of farmers, fisherfolk, and other food producers in what we eat and how we eat, encouraging us to take the time to enjoy our meals and appreciate the way our food has been produced. This way, the movement tries to counteract the prevailing fast-food approach to dining, where we consume cheaper mildly palatable food, which are unhealthy for us in the long run. Bacolod City is, of course, popular for the amazing array of great eats and drink—from the traditional dishes served at many homes to the newfound takes on local cuisine, as well as wicked takes on foreign dishes that suddenly make these taste home-grown. What is admirable is that most ingredients used in home kitchens or restaurants are sourced locally, from disciplined farmers and fisherfolk that care enough to produce these cleanly and fairly, making all

these dishes taste not just good but great. The city is home to over 20,000 hectares of agricultural land dedicated to organic farming, local produce, and rare indigenous ingredients, which emphasizing the importance of food sustainability. It is the capital of Negros Occidental, a province with a 32,000-hectare marine reserve, offering a wide range of exquisite seafood, and where traditional fishing methods ensure the conservation of its aquatic biodiversity. It is for these reasons that made the city the best venue for TMAP, which was patterned after the Terra Madre Salon del Gusto in Turin, attended by slow food producers and enthusiasts around the world. With the theme From Soil to Sea: A Slow Food Journey Through Tastes & Traditions, TMAP brought together local producers, farmers, fisherfolk, artisans, food communities, chefs, cooks, policymakers, and advocates from the Asia-Pacific region in a five-day event to exchange knowledge and advance the global call for a more sustainable food future. Slow Food International president Edward Mukiibi underscored the importance of the event: “This comes at a moment when we urgently need to take concrete action against the climate crisis: action that goes beyond negotiations and high-level talks. Lasting climate solutions grow from the ground up.” He added: “They are rooted in biodiversity, indigenous knowledge, and strong local food systems that put communities, not corporations, at the center. The solutions we need already exist within our communities and within Slow Food farms: agroecology strengthens resilience today, while mitigating emissions for the future. The final commitment of Terra Madre is therefore to amplify agroecological practices, defend biodiversity, and reject industrial, unsustainable models of agriculture.” (Department of Agriculture: *Crickets*) TMAP, which ran from November 19 to 23, offered

lectures and public talks on many relevant Slow Food topics, while over in the Street Food area, there were cooking and food demonstrations from well-known chefs, Manila-based restaurateurs, and local Slow Food communities. There was a Slow Food Travel Pavilion, which featured immersive, community-based food experiences from various regions and provinces; Foodways of Asia and Pacific, a tent which displayed regional varieties of produce like rice, corn and spices; a Taste Workshop, where participants ate and learned about dishes from featured chefs in a guided setting; and a Community Kitchen, where representatives from several barangays in Bacolod cooked and shared their local community dishes. But my first stop at the five-day TMAP was actually the 18th Negros Island Organic Farmers Festival. (OK, it was actually Aida’s Inasal. A McDonald’s Chicken Nuggets meal cannot compare to Aida’s grilled pakpak or pecho with garlic rice slathered in luscious chicken oil.) At the organic market, I ended up buying 2 kilos of huge-sized batwan, a fruit used as souring agent in these parts, from one kiosk at P100 per kilo to bring back to Manila. (I immediately cooked kansi—a dish resembling the bulalo, but with a sinigang taste with a slightly citrusy note—just in time for the heavy rains that pelted the metro a few days upon my return.) I asked chefs and restaurateurs who attended TMAP what they found in the Organic Market or the other Slow Food communities who sold their produce at the Street Food Area. Chef Jay Jay SyCip (The Fatted Calf) shared that he found a muscovado producer from Antique, and “we’re trying to see how we can use Darag Chicken [native chicken] from Iloilo for our menu. From Kalinga, we will be using their Chong-Ak heirloom rice.” For his part, Nowie Potenciano (The Sunny

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Bypass situations you

cannot change. Distance yourself from drama and big egos trying to outmaneuver everyone they encounter. You’ll gain the most ground by focusing your energy on personal improvements, fitness, and participating in activities or events that bring a smile to your face. ★★

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Exaggeration will lead to trouble. Communication can make or break a relationship. Don’t make promises unless you plan to follow through immediately. Taking on too much might make you sound good, but it will make you look bad if you don’t deliver. Your best bet is to be fun, kind and informative. ★★★★

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Get on the fast train,

adjust on the fly and learn as you go. Avoid joint ventures or shared expenses, and begin making changes that will give you the freedom you need to fulfill your needs and aspirations. Look at the big picture and your long-term plans, and associate with those who can offer an introduction. ★★★

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Take the long route if it will help you perfect what you want to achieve. Cutting corners or taking someone’s word over your own will leave you in a vulnerable position. Time is on your side, making the journey worthwhile. Trust your ability to handle matters your way. Don’t be afraid to say no. ★★★

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Put your energy where it counts, and you will make headway. Going into a new year with a positive attitude and a plan in place will give you something to celebrate this festive season. Mingle with like-minded people, and you’ll gain insight into shortcuts you can use to project your plans in a timely fashion. ★★★

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): A change will do you good. Visit a place that evokes fond memories, and consider how you can apply that feeling to create new memories and strengthen relationships with those you love. Consider what concerns you most, and rethink how you can overcome any adversity you encounter. Choose kindness and consideration, and you will thrive. ★★★

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Choose who you

spend your time with carefully. Distance yourself from those who use or take advantage of you. A change of scenery or participating in events with those who love and protect you will give you the time you need to rejuvenate and rethink how you want to move forward. Choose stability and consistency. ★★

SEE “SLOW FOOD,” B5

BIRTHDAY BABY:

You are imaginative, sympathetic and productive. You are spontaneous and changeable.

‘holding periods’ BY VAL MELIUS

The Universal Crossword • Edited by David Steinberg/Anna Gundlach/Jared Goudsmit/Andrian Johnson/Taylor Johnson ACROSS 1 Blend together 5 Chocolate-coffee combo 10 Batman foe 14 Sword with a French or pistol grip 15 Didn’t do a thing 16 British boys’ school 17 Firefighter’s number (In this answer, note letters 4-6 and 7-9) 19 Sight from a crow’s nest 20 Shortage 21 Universal Studios’ Revenge of the Mummy and others 22 Vertigo specialist, briefly 23 Capuchin monkey’s hangout 25 Precipitation statistic (...letters 3-5 and 7-9) 33 ___ wrap 34 Muppet who consults Mr. Noodle 35 Fact-checker’s woe 36 Minor misstep 37 Cuts into cubes 39 Actress Gershon 40 Shriek accompanied by a squeak 41 Poi ingredient

42 Fists, informally 43 Theater responsibility (...letters 3-5 and 9-11) 47 Swiss Army Knife’s multitude 48 Flee 49 Change back to 12:00, say 52 Supply stop on a fishing trip 57 Guitars, informally 58 Quick marching pace, or a theme hint 60 Lovers’ fight 61 Steer clear of 62 Peepers 63 Traps on Deadliest Catch 64 Early Mesoamerican settlers 65 Waste not, ___ not DOWN 1 Clothing store section 2 Monumental 3 Dunham of TV 4 Game in the woods 5 Gold rush activity 6 Swan Lake princess 7 Be overly sweet 8 She’s cooped up!

9 “Gator” or “Power” add-on 10 Faith focus 11 Not that much 12 Zero 13 They might be loose or split 18 Great white shark’s domain 21 HGTV update 23 Campfire story, say 24 Wheel parts that may spin 25 Stubborn animals 26 One moving to a lot? 27 Actress Alexander of Deja Vu 28 Genre for Cardi B or Juicy J 29 Drone mission, for short 30 Similar 31 Dish towel fabric 32 Smallest 37 Knight’s equivalent 38 Portfolio options, briefly 39 Orbit or Eclipse 41 Put through a trial 42 Al ___ (pasta specification) 44 Podcast invitees 45 Saudi ___ 46 Trade groups

49 Talk like the Godfather 50 CES or Comic-Con 51 Word after “box” or “bucket” 52 Harbor marker 53 Chili con carne, e.g. 54 “Hey there!” 55 Supernatural warning 56 Crop-dusting target 58 Hurdle for a salmon 59 Eggs in a lab Solution to today’s puzzle:

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Show BusinessMirror

Editor: Gerard S. Ramos • Friday, December 19, 2025

The Oscars will move to YouTube in 2029, leaving longtime home of ABC I GMA PUBLIC AFFAIRS, GMA PICTURES DOCUMENTARY ‘58TH’ TO HOLD WORLD PREMIERE AT 2026 INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ROTTERDAM GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures’ animated documentary film 58th has been officially selected to make its World Premiere at the 2026 International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR). 58th honors the victims of the Maguindanao Massacre in 2009—one of the darkest chapters in Philippine history—and brings to light the story of Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay, the 58th victim of the massacre. The selection of 58th marks the first time a GMA Network film has been chosen for screening at IFFR, a milestone that reflects the growing global recognition of Filipino storytelling. “Impunity in the Philippines persists because we keep allowing it to happen. Producing 58th, which we have been planning for over a decade, is an act of resistance. It’s a reminder to our countrymen that forgetting is dangerous,” says Nessa Valdellon, GMA Public Affairs’ head and GMA Pictures executive vice president. “We are currently submitting it to international festivals to share this important story with the world while we plan its local release. I cannot wait for the Filipino audience to see it.” 58th is directed by award-wining winning filmmaker Carl Joseph Papa. This is Papa’s second appearance at IFFR following Iti Mapukpukaw (The Missing), which premiered at the festival in 2024 and was the Philippines’ official entry to the 2023 Academy Awards for Best International Feature. “We are honored to premiere 58th at the IFFR, one of the biggest film festivals in the world,” says Papa. “Our core mission for this film is twofold: to give voice to those who have been silenced, and to stand in solidarity with those who are still fighting for justice. And we are thankful that IFFR is our first avenue to pursue our mission.” The Rotterdam premiere represents a significant achievement for GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures, reinforcing their commitment to producing socially relevant films that resonate both locally and globally. Combining animation with archival footage, 58th retells the tragedy for a new generation—many of whom may be unfamiliar with the events—ensuring that the victims’ stories and their continued pursuit of justice are not forgotten. 58th also holds special significance as the final film of the late Ricky Davao, who portrayed Reynaldo Momay. The cast is led by Glaiza De Castro with Mikoy Morales, Marco Masa, Zyren Dela Cruz, and Biboy Ramirez. The film is creatively produced by Public Affairs AVP for Documentaries Johnson Tam with Program Manager Ian Simbulan. Founded in 1972, the International Film Festival Rotterdam is known for championing bold and innovative cinema from around the world. This year, the festival will take place from January 29 to February 8, 2026 in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

Slow Food... Continued from B4 Side Group) said: “We’ve made connections with some farmers and producers at the market. We’re still in the process through of figuring out how to use the said ingredients and establishing how to go about regular sourcing.” Some of these were seafood and herbs from Aklan and Capiz. At the Street Food Area, there were long line to the kiosks where some of the country’s celebrated chefs offered their popular dishes (though I didn’t have the patience to stand in the long queues); products and dishes of Slow Food Communities from around the country, (rejoice, fellow Capiznons: we have a Slow Food Community and they were selling mud crabs, prawns, and cultured shrimps); organic farmers’ produce from around the country, which I was told was the Department of Agriculture’s main contribution to TMAP; and even native or traditional clothing, fabrics and accessories. I listened to proud Caviteño food

N a seismic shift for one of television’s marquee events, the Academy Awards will depart ABC and begin streaming on YouTube beginning in 2029, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on Wednesday. ABC will continue to broadcast the annual ceremony through 2028. That year will mark the 100th Oscars. But starting in 2029, YouTube will retain global rights to streaming the Oscars through 2033. YouTube will effectively be the home to all things Oscars, including red-carpet coverage, the Governors Awards and the Oscar nominations announcement. “We are thrilled to enter into a multifaceted global partnership with YouTube to be the future home of the Oscars and our year-round Academy programming,” said academy chief executive Bill Kramer and academy president Lynette Howell Taylor. “The Academy is an international organization, and this partnership will allow us to expand access to the work of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience possible—which will be beneficial for our Academy members and the film community.” While major award shows have added streaming partnerships, the YouTube deal marks the first of the big four— the Oscars, Grammys, Emmys and Tonys—to completely jettison broadcast television. It puts one of the most watched non-NFL broadcasts in the hands of Google. YouTube boasts some 2 billion viewers. The Academy Awards will stream for free worldwide on YouTube, in addition to YouTube TV subscribers. It will be available with audio tracks in many languages, in addition to closed captioning. Financial terms were not disclosed. “The Oscars are one of our essential cultural institutions, honoring excellence in storytelling and artistry,” said Neal Mohan, chief executive of YouTube. “Partnering with the academy to bring this celebration of art and entertainment to viewers all over the world will inspire a new generation of creativity and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars’ storied legacy.” The Walt Disney Co.-owned ABC has been the broadcast home to the Oscars for almost its entire history. NBC first televised the Oscars in 1953, but ABC picked up the rights in 1961. Aside from a period between 1971 and 1975, when NBC again aired the show, the Oscars have been on ABC. “ABC has been the proud home to The Oscars for more than half a century,” the network said in a statement. “We look forward to the next three telecasts, including the show’s centennial celebration in 2028, and wish the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences continued success.” The 2025 Academy Awards were watched by 19.7 million viewers on ABC, a slight increase from the year before. That remains one of the biggest TV broadcasts of the year, though less than half of Oscar ratings at their peak. In 1999, more than 55 million watched James Cameron’s Titanic win best picture. The film academy, in choosing YouTube over other options such as Netflix or NBC Universal/Peacock, selected a platform with a wide-ranging and massive audience but one without as much of an established production infrastructure. Still, more people—especially young people—watch YouTube than any other streaming platform. According to Nielsen, YouTube accounted for 12.9 percent of all television and streaming content consumed in November. Netflix ranked second with an 8.3 percent market share. AP

writer Ige Ramos’ lecture on the common flavors of the Philippines and how these are connected to the rest of the Malay cultures in Southeast Asia. But the taste links within the Philippines were severed due to the Tondo Conspiracy (1587-1588), a failed revolt by datus from Tondo, Bulacan, Pampanga, Laguna, Batangas and and other areas against our Spanish colonial masters, which led to the capture of the noblemen and, thereafter, the direct annexation of Tondo to Spain. This is the reason, Ramos explained, why the flavor profiles of northern Luzon are different “and not as spicy” as that of food in southern Philippines as well as in Borneo, Java, Sumatra and Brunei. At the Taste Workshop tent, Chef Datu Sheriff Pendatun III helped participants explore the shared flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine from Palapa (a toasted coconut-based condiment) to Sambal (a spicy chilibased condiment). He pointed out that our puto (steamed rice cake from fermented rice dough), for instance, “in origin, is from Southern India,”

the latter having the puttu. And our bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) is akin to Indonesia’s Terasi. Driving home the similarities among the region’s ingredients was the session anchored by SyCip and his wife Chef Rhea (Flourpot), in collaboration with Chef Hafizzul Hashim (Fiz Singapore) and Chef Waya Araos-Wijangco (Gourmet Gypsy Baguio). Focusing on the coconut, they prepared an array of dishes using the hard fruit such as a tasty clam soup with coconut meat, hearty pancit using the coconut meat as noodles, a soulful beef rendang flavored with coconut milk, and hefty buko pie. Culture and commonality, tradition and reinvention, products and produce—all these were able on display at TMAP. But more importantly, the five-day event cemented the region’s bonds by inspiring in every food lover/ participant a sense of community. May these increase the number of slow food groups in the country, and encourage more Filipinos to advocate, even demand for good, clean and fair food for all.

B5

B6 Friday, December 19, 2025

Dedication to affordable quality earns MR D.I.Y. coveted FMCG Category win at ASEAN Business Awards

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R D.I.Y. Group (M) Berhad has been named the FMCG Category Winner at the ASEAN Business Awards (ABA) 2025, reinforcing its position as one of the region’s most impactful and fastestgrowing retail brands. Organized by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC), the prestigious awards honor outstanding businesses that drive innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth across Southeast Asia. Award recipients are selected through a rigorous judging process involving national gateways and judges from each ASEAN member state. “This recognition as FMCG Category Winner at the ASEAN Business Awards 2025 is an incredible honor for the MR.DIY Group. It reflects not just our growth as a proudly Southeast Asian retail brand, but also our unwavering commitment to making everyday living simple, joyful and complete for families across the region,” said Roselle B. Andaya, Chief Executive Officer of MR D.I.Y. Philippines. The award ceremony was held at the Malaysia International Trade and

Adrian Ong, Chief Executive Officer of MR D.I.Y. Group (M) Berhad, proudly receiving the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) Award at the prestigious ASEAN Business Awards. Exhibition Centre (MITEC) during the ASEAN Business & Investment Summit (ABIS) 2025 in Kuala Lumpur on October 26, 2025. MR D.I.Y.’s recognition as the FMCG Category award winner highlights the company’s outstanding contribution to transforming the retail landscape in ASEAN. With a footprint covering 14 countries and over 5,000 stores, MR D.I.Y. continues to champion value, accessibility,

and convenience, while staying true to its mission of “Always Low Prices.” The ASEAN Business Awards celebrates organizations that exemplify excellence in entrepreneurship, leadership, and sustainability, making MR D.I.Y. ‘s win a powerful testament to how a Malaysian brand can grow purposefully across borders. For more information, visit MR D.I.Y.’s website, www.mrdiy.com, and its social media channels, Facebook and Instagram.

BingoPlus sponsors ECP Cup, 3rd San Juanico Invitational Golf Cup

Participants of the golf tournament entitled: Empowering Cancer Patients Cup

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INGOPLUS continues its support in the sports field as it sponsors not one, but two local golf tournaments over the weekend in the province of Cavite and Tacloban City. On November 7, 2025, the Empowering Cancer Patients (ECP) Cup was hosted at the Sherwood Hills Golf Club in Trece Martires, Cavite. The goal of the golf tournament was to support cancer patients in St. Luke’s Medical Center, Makati Medical Center,

and the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center. All of these institutions joined forces and came together to raise awareness through sports. Funds were raised to be donated to the mentioned institutions in their development of enhanced programs. As a major sponsor BingoPlus truly continues to show its support for local communities in their sport development initiatives. The event at the Sherwood Hills

Golf Club shared a moment of hope, as the funds raised were shared with beneficiaries who are cancer patients and survivors to help them during this challenging moment in their lives. This will allow them to continue with their treatments. On the other hand, the 3rd San Juanico Invitational Golf Cup was also held on November 7 at the San Juanico Golf and Country Club. The tournament was held to help residents in the nearby community, and to the local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (DRRMO) due to the recent typhoon that struck most of the provinces in the Visayas region. The game was met with unexpected weather challenges but continued when the rain stopped, which according to the hosting club showcased a sense of sportsmanship and camaraderie among the participants. In line with BingoPlus’ goal to support the grassroots and sports development programs, the event also focused on supporting national athletes in nurturing them from going local and progressing into the international stage. The proceeds of the event will go to different charities and organizations aimed at helping the local communities in Tacloban, and those affected by the typhoon, giving hope with heartfelt assistance for everyone in need. The sponsorship of these two events proved that BingoPlus is more than just an entertainment platform. It proved that with determination and dedication, BingoPlus can always look forward to contributing to each other’s cause in helping local communities by continuing to provide assistance and become an inspiration for all.

Kalinga Foundation Renews Lives, Hope Through Christmas Outreach

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HE Arnold Janssen Kalinga (KainAral-Ligo-NG-Ayos) Foundation continues to live out its mission of restoring dignity and hope among homeless persons, the poor, and other marginalized sectors through a special Christmas outreach activity organized this year by Anna Donita S. Tapay, a longtime advocate and active partner of the foundation. A non-profit, faith-based organization in the Philippines, the Arnold Janssen Kalinga Foundation provides holistic and dignified care aimed not only at survival but at rebuilding lives. Its integrated programs focus on three core phases: food and hygiene, education through the Alternative Learning System (ALS), and livelihood and employment. Anchored on the belief that poverty is a matter of justice and human dignity, the foundation empowers individuals through nourishment, education, hygiene, and livelihood, helping restore their self-image, self-respect, and selfworth. In line with this mission, Tapay spearheaded a Christmas event specially designed for the poor, reaching 450 beneficiaries as the holiday season approached. She shared that for her, the true meaning of Christmas is the “unconditional love of Christ,” a love that must be shown through action rather than words alone. She emphasized that while expressions of love are easily spoken, they often fall short when it comes to concrete action, underscoring the need for genuine and selfless service. One of the most meaningful highlights of the activity was the presence of former Kalinga beneficiaries who have since graduated from the program and returned to serve the foundation. These individuals shared their personal stories of transformation on how Kalinga helped them rebuild their lives and regain dignity. Their return served as a living testament to the foundation’s impact, inspiring current beneficiaries who are now experiencing Kalinga’s support through food, shelter, education, and livelihood opportunities, including ALS classes. The Christmas outreach also reflected how Tapay extends kalinga, care and compassion not only to the foundation’s beneficiaries but also to her own employees. As an employer, she nurtures a culture of service that naturally flows outward. Together with her team, the activity was carried out not for recognition or publicity, but as an expression of faith and responsibility. According to Tapay, service becomes contagious when it is rooted in sincerity: “If you truly have the heart to serve, the people around you will do the same.” Believing that Christmas is truly for the poor, Tapay chose not to wait for others to initiate similar efforts. Instead, she led the activity herself, reflecting the foundation’s commitment to making

GREATNESS OF SPIRIT On November 7, 2025, the Ramon Magsaysay Foundation honored Fr. Flavie L. Villanueva, SVD—Founder and President of the Arnold Janssen Kalinga Foundation—for his unwavering dedication to restoring lives and renewing hope among the homeless and wounded. His recognition reflects a true greatness of spirit in service, compassion, and healing.

God’s love visible through concrete actions not merely through spoken words. Beyond the Christmas event, Tapay actively organizes year-round initiatives that cater to various sectors. Among these is the recently conducted Hospital on Wheels, a mobile medical mission that brought much-needed healthcare services to individuals requiring medical attention. These sustained efforts reinforce her commitment to the Arnold Janssen Kalinga Foundation’s vision of holistic care and long-term transformation. Through initiatives like this Christmas outreach, the Arnold Janssen Kalinga Foundation and Tapay continue to demonstrate that faith, when translated into action, can restore dignity, rebuild lives, and bring hope especially to those who need it most.

Giftville Is the New Holiday Pop-Up Gen Z Shoppers Will Love at Ayala Malls Manila Bay Nights light and fireworks show. You’ll find brands like Buddy Patches, Russet Accessories, By Essence Fragrances, Hoop Art, Tsukiyo Matcha, Barely Coffee x Bean Co, Crafty Pop MNL, Diego Cookie Studio, Buddy Patches, Kekel, and more— plus plenty of rotating finds worth coming back for. If your holiday plans involve shopping, hanging out, and taking a few cute photos in between, Giftville is an easy add to your weekend list. Catch Giftville at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay, until January 18, 2026.

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OOKING for Christmas gifts that aren’t boring or mass-produced? Giftville, a new holiday pop-up village by Studio Bighani, is now open at Ayala Malls Manila Bay as part of Christmas #AtTheBay. Running until January 18, 2026, Giftville features rotating local brands every weekend—so there’s always something new to discover. Expect indie fashion, accessories, small-batch food, and easy giftables, all set beside the mall’s Garden Lights, Holiday

Motoring BusinessMirror

Henry Ford Awards Best Motoring Section 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 2011 Hall of Fame

Editor: Tet Andolong • www.businessmirror.com.ph

Friday, December 19, 2025 B7

CHANGAN NEVO LINEUP:

RANGE EXTENDED WITH ZERO ANXIETY

THE Nevo Hunter K50 4x4 Knight variant in Olive Greden color

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Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino

NCHCAPE Philippines, the exclusive distributor of Changan in the country, recently hosted a day tour drive event for select motoring media partners to showcase the three models under the Nevo lineup: the Nevo Q05 Plug-in Hybrid/RangeExtended Electric Vehicle (PREV) compact crossover SUV, the Hunter K50 Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV) mid-sized pickup truck, and the A05 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) compact sedan. The day started at the Changan flagship showroom in C5, Pasig City, where five brand-new variants of the Nevo lineup were commissioned. Following the introduction of the electrified lineup early this year, Changan Philippines organized an experiential event to give the media a firsthand experience. It was not the usual technical approach but rather a steady and relaxed pace to enjoy the trip to Villa Escudero in Tiaong, Quezon, while taking dibs on the model assigned to each media group. Over 200 kilometers were covered to and from the destination via C5, SLEX, provincial roads, and the Nevo triumvirate, showcasing each vehicle’s range anxiety-free driving range.

Nevo Hunter K50 4x4 (REEV) ASSIGNED to our group was the 4x4 variant of the Hunter K50 electrified pickup - the world’s first range-extended electric vehicle pick-up, and the country’s first four-wheel drive electric pick-up. Exterior-wise, the main highlight is the fascia’s borderless grill design together with the pair of sevenshaped LED headlamps. The flanks have sharp, clean lines, accentuated by matte-black wheel arches and 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 60-series tires. Inside is a breath of fresh air, with an uncluttered, straightforward design. Highlighted at the center dash are the integrated 7.5-inch Digital Instrument Cluster and 12.3-inch Touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an eight-speaker sound

TMP joins electrified mobility–finally

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HE Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has finally joined the world of electrified mobility, unveiling its latest model, the allnew bZ4X BEV (battery electric vehicle). The bZ4X is TMP’s first BEV, further boosting the company’s full electric lineup which was previously comprised of the Lexus RZ and the Lexus UX.

Guided by its multi-pathway approach to carbon neutral mobility, TMP has been laying the groundwork for car electrification in the country since introducing the Prius Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) in 2009. I was lucky enough to be one of a few motoring journalists to testdrive the first Prius in Nagoya on a side trip to the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007. In a report, TMP’s super-energetic Mixie Flavier, through her dependable wordsmith Allana Faith Rufo, reveals TMP’s all-out approach on electrification in the region. Here:

Widest range “TODAY, the mobility company has the widest range of electrified vehicles (EVs) in the country, with

THE Nevo Q05 in Putty Gray color system, a wireless charging pad, and leather seats (power-adjustable for both driver and front passenger). Motivation comes from a 2.0L Turbocharged BlueCore Range Extender that acts as an electricity generator. The 4x4 variant’s dualmotor setup generates 268 hp and 470 N-m of torque. But trust us when we say those figures are modest, because the actual feel suggests otherwise. There are also versatile driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Sports, Traction, Custom, Creep, Snow, Mud, Sand, and Offroad, providing drivers the freedom to navigate through the different road conditions. It also has a 2.5ton towing capacity. The Hunter K50’s impressive battery capacity of 31.18 kWh provides up to 131 km of pureelectric driving range, which may increase to 1,031 km with the range extender, thanks to its 70-liter fuel tank. True enough, from flag off, we opted to drive on pure EV initially, with over 80 percent battery charge. By the time we passed the entire SLEX stretch and reached the provincial roads of Laguna, the REEV system only fired up the engine when the charge level dropped below 30 percent. Additionally, one of the most interesting features of the Hunter K50 is its Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature, which allows a standard electrical discharge unit to power electronic devices with up to 3.3 kW of external power via dual 220V outlets. It enables users to power appliances for up to 100 hours. Apart from standard safety features, the Hunter K50 is equipped with Driver, Front Passenger, Front Side, Front and Rear Curtain Airbags, Lane Departure Warning, 54-degree Panoramic Camera, Speed Limit

22 electrified models under its Toyota and Lexus brands. “The all-wheel drive bZ4X is powered by a 73.11 kWh Lithium-ion battery and dual motors with a front output of 227 PS and rear output of 120 PS, and a front torque of 269 Nm and rear torque of 170 Nm. It records up to 570 km of EV range (Based on United Nations Regulations101. Actual consumption and range will vary based on conditions and driving habits). “The bZ4X features an angular exterior design, LED headlights, 20inch alloy wheels, and a panoramic moonroof. It has a ground clearance of 200mm and seats up to five people. The power back door with kick sensor provides ease of access for loading and unloading of items into the cargo space.

Synthetic leather “INSIDE, the seats are clad in synthetic leather, with generous second-row space for passengers. Both front and rear seats have builtin heating, while the front seats also have ventilation. Additionally,

THE Nevo A05 in Andes Gray color Reminder, Cruise Control, Lateral Stability Control, Emergency Brake Warning System, Collision Auto Unlock, and Collision Auto Fuel Cut-Off. Priced at P1.970 million, the Hunter K50 4x4 Knight variant is available in Starmoon Gray, Mecca Gray, Feather White, Olive Green, and Elegant Black colors. On the other hand, the 4x2 Warrior variant retails at P1.699 million and offers the same color options.

Nevo Q05 (PREV) ASSIGNED to the other groups were the Changan Nevo Q05 - the brand’s PREV compact SUV offering. It has a minimalist yet stylish exterior design with soft, clean lines, accentuated by tasteful chrome accents. Other exterior elements are full-LED lighting, rectangular LED tail lights, an aerodynamic rear spoiler, a shark fin antenna, Front and Rear Fog Lights, Electric Adjust & Auto Fold Heated Side Mirrors w/ Integrated Turn Signal, and Power Tailgate, and 19-inch Five-Spoke Two-Tone Alloy Wheels. Inside, the Two-Tone Leather Seats have Power-Adjust Function (driver and front passenger). Highlighted at the center dash is the 10.25-inch (SE) or 12.3-inch (iD) touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support and a six-speaker Pioneer Sound System. Moreover, there is Multi-Color Ambient Lighting, a Panoramic Sunroof, and a Wireless Smartphone Charging Pad. Motivation comes from a 1.5L BlueCore Gasoline Engine, mated to a dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) that produces 212 hp and 330 N-m of torque. There are four diverse electric driving modes: Battery Electric, Hybrid, Range Extended Electric, and Intelligent

the driver gets an eight-way power seat that can be adjusted based on memory settings. “For functionality, the bZ4X has a 7-inch Digital Meter Cluster and Multi-Information Display, 14-inch Display Audio with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual wireless charging ports in front, and USB Type C chargers in the front and rear. “It is equipped with the latest Toyota Safety Sense with PreCollision System (PCS), Automatic High Beam (AHB), Adaptive High Beam System (AHS), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). Blind Spot and Panoramic View Monitors and a Digital Inside Rearview Mirror further assist drivers by providing additional visibility of the road. “Every purchase of the bZ4X comes with a free wall box charger and a portable charger.

Charging infrastructure “‘FROM building up our widest lineup

Energy Management (iEM), which allows the vehicle to adjust its energy consumption based on driving patterns and conditions. Thanks to its class-leading 18.4 kWh battery, the Q05 is another Nevo model with the highest-rated pure electric vehicle range in its class, offering 115 km in full EV mode and a comprehensive range of 1,215 kilometers. Exclusive to the top-spec variant are Advanced Driver Assistance Systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Jam Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Intelligent High Beam, Surround View Camera System, and Automatic Parking Assist. The Nevo Q05 SE retails at P1.259 million while the Q05 iD is at P1.499 million. Available colors are Dazzle Grey, Astral Diamond Black, Putty Gray, and White.

Nevo A05 PHEV MEANWHILE, the Changan Nevo A05 PHEV sedan was recently launched and presented as a sight to behold during the drive event, thanks to its overall sharp, elegant exterior design. The model is most definitely a looker, thanks to its well-thought-out exterior features designed to provide a pleasant overall ride. These are the Automatic LED Headlights and Taillights, Headlight Height Adjust, paired with LED Daytime Running Lights, a High-Mounted LED 3rd Brake Light, and 17-inch Alloy Wheels. It also sports a Follow-MeHome Function, an additional smart feature that keeps the vehicle’s headlamps on for a few seconds after the engine is turned off to illuminate the driver’s path. Inside, the A05 features sleek,

of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) and introducing Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) through our luxury brand Lexus, we believe we’re ready to make BEVs more mainstream with the Toyota bZ4X, especially with Filipino users’ better understanding of EV technologies and power mix along with improving charging infrastructure,’ said Elijah Marcial, the TMP First Vice President for Vehicle Sales Operations. “A customer, who signed up during the reservations period, said: ‘A lot of my friends are getting [battery] electric and hybrid cars. I saw the advantages since I spend so much on fuel. I commute daily from Quezon City to Caloocan City, and even Nuvali [Laguna] three times a week. In Nuvali, there are a lot of charging stations and during the weekdays most of them are available, so I don’t feel any range anxiety.’ “‘It’s hard to bet on new players in the market. I’ve been a Toyota owner since the ‘80s, so I’m confident with their service and parts. When we get a car, [my

high-quality materials. Available features include a Flat-Fold Rear Backrest, 13.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and USB, plus a 6-speaker audio system. It also offers a moonroof, rear air vents, keyless entry and start, automatic temperature-controlled air conditioning, and a multifunction steering wheel. For convenience, there are power-adjustable, autofolding heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, a six-way electric driver’s seat, and a four-way manually adjustable passenger seat. Motivation comes from its 1.5L BlueCore Gasoline Engine, mated to a DHT generating 212 hp and 330 N-m of torque. Adapting to the driver’s preferences, the A05 comes with several EV powertrain modes, including BEV, PHEV, REEV, and iEM. In addition to these, it features multiple drive modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Custom. With its class-leading 18.4 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, the Changan Nevo A05 boasts the highest-rated pure electric vehicle range in its class, with an impressive up to 130 km range on full EV mode, and a comprehensive range of up to 1,250 km. The A05 also offers advanced driver-assist features, particularly the 540-degree Virtual View Camera System with/ 360-degree recording, Cruise, Integrated Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Jam Assist, and Autonomous Emergency Braking. The Nevo A05 PHEV retails at P1.195 million and is available in White, Cloud Mountain Green, Andes Gray, and Titanium Light Silver Gray colors.

family] doesn’t re-sell, so for sure [the bZ4X] will be [with us] for the long run,’ another customer said.

Where to buy “THE all-new bZ4X comes in one variant and is available at PHP 2,699,000 for the Dark Blue Mica/ Attitude Black Mica colorway, PHP 2,714,000 for the Platinum White Pearl Mica/Attitude Black Mica colorway, and PHP 2,719,000 for the Precious Metal/Attitude Black Mica and Emotional Red/Attitude Black Mica colorways. “The Toyota bZ4X is available at Toyota Alabang, Toyota Commonwealth, Toyota Global City, Toyota Mabolo Cebu, Toyota Makati, Toyota Manila Bay, Toyota Mandaue South, Toyota North EDSA, Toyota Pasig, Toyota Quezon Avenue, Toyota San Fernando and Toyota Santa Rosa. “For more information, customers may visit https://www. toyota.com.ph/bz4x.”

PEE STOP Merry Christmas!

B8 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph | Editor: Jun Lomibao

Sports BusinessMirror

Friday, December 19, 2025

ALEXANDRA EALA She came. She played. She conquered.

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ANGKOK—Alexandra Eala achieved what she same to accomplish at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games: Win the gold medal! The 20-year-old darling of Philippine sports put away Thailand’s Mananchaya Sawangkaew in a manner many expected—a clinical 6-1, 6-2 rout that more than validates her status as the rising tennis star from the region. “To end the year on this high is such an amazing thing,” said Eala, ranked No. 52 by the Women’s Tennis Association, the highest a Filipina player has gotten in history. “I wouldn’t have thought it would happen at the start of the year,” the women’s top seed in the games added. Eala’s gold was the first for the country since Maricris Fernandez-Gentz’s victory at the

1999 games in Brunei and was also a revenge of sorts for the majors campaigner who lost to Sawangkaew, 6-4, 1-6, 2-6 in their WTA100 quarterfinals match in Takasaki, Japan. Despite the lopsided score, Eala still had to buck issues deemed to break her concentration. She had to request for a change of linesman after a point was awarded to the Thai in the second set from a dubious line call. The Thai was also allowed by the umpire to two equipment change breaks to replace her insoles. But Eala didn’t break. Her dominance was obvious from the onset when she fought off what could have been a broken serve at love-40 only to make mincemeat of her opponent to go 3-0. Sawangkaew managed to fight back at 3-1 but couldn’t keep up as Eala scooped up the next

three games to move a set away from her first SEA Games gold medal to improve on the bronze she clinched in Cambodia two years ago. It was perhaps a strategy by the hosts to throw everything—including the kitchen sink—for Eala to lose her focus as the Thai momentarily got her rhythm—thanks to that dubious line call—that made it a 2-2 second set. But Eala was locked in and broke Sawangkaew’s serve and watched the Thai commit a double fault for a 3-2 lead. The left-handed Eala broke the Thai’s serve once more to go up, 5-2, and wrapped up the gold medal on her serve—both traded baseline drives but on the fifth exchange, Sawangkaew’s crosscourt pass went wide that sent the Filipin crowd roaring. Jun Lomibao

PHL athletes go all on last full competition day

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ANGKOK—Alexandra Eala won her first gold medal in tennis, the Blu Boys regained the men’s softball title and Michael Ver Comaling got another mint for modern pentathlon on Thursday in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games. But with 41 gold medals and still sitting at sixth place in the medal standings, the Philippines has one full day on Friday to catch its goal— finish fourth or fifth. The country’s top sports officials, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick “Patò” Gregorio, are on the same page—a fourth-place finish. A total of 106 gold medals remain to be contested on Friday with Saturday’s

closing ceremony to be preceded by only one final in open water swimming. “There’s still a chance,” Tolentino said. The Philippines had 41 gold medals to show on Thursday evening—five golds behind Malaysia which ran fifth and seven off Singapore which was in fourth place. Thailand is on top four short of its target with 196 golds, followed by Indonesia with 80 and Vietnam with 72 mints. The Blu Boys beat Singapore, 3-0, in at the Queen Sirikit Baseball Stadium in Pathum Thani with lefty Jehanz Maristela Coro striking out 17 batters that avenged the country’s loss to Singapore in the 2019 edition in Clark. Athlete-actor Comaling, 25, who dabbles in acting and pageantry,

clocked 14 minutes and 10.17 seconds in ruling the men’s triathle for a fitting followup to the gold Melvin Savay nailed in men’s Laser Run the other day at the Jomtien Beach in Pattaya. Comaling and Sacay both hail from Ormoc City. Indonesia’s Farras Satrio Aris Sugianto(14:27.29) and Graha Rizky Taruna (15:03.86) bagged silver and bronze, respectively. In women’s action, Shyra Mae Aranzado clinched bronze by clocking 18:29.30 to place behind Dea Salsabila Putri (18:01.83) and Nurfa Inayah Nurul Qalbi (18:13.14), who gave Indonesia a one-two finish. The modern pentathlon competition wraps up on Friday, with medals at stake in the men’s and women’s obstacle laser run. Jun Lomibao

THAILAND 2025 33RD SEA GAMES

MEDAL TALLY R

Country

G

S

B

Total

1

Thailand

185

120

80

385

2

Indonesia

72

85

95

253

3

Vietnam

65

69

94

226

4

Singapore

46

43

63

152

5

Malaysia

41

46

106

193

6

Philippines

38

55

120

213

7

Myanmar

3

19

34

56

8

Laos

2

9

21

32

9

Brunei Darussalam

1

3

4

8

10

Timor-Leste

0

0

3

3

As of December 18, 2025 Source: olympics.com

Proud and mighty!

The women’s national team bask in glory at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games after winning for the country its first football gold medal—men or women— at the Chonburi Daikin Stadium on Wednesday night. The Filipinas won, 6-5, in a penalty shootout not only to emerge as queens of football in the region, but validate the Philippines’ rise in the sport following a first-ever qualification in the FIFA Women’s World Cup three years ago. The Philippines is only the third country to top the games after Vietnam and Thailand took turns ruling the first 13 editions. POC MEDIA POOL

Gilas gets another scare this time from Indonesia By Josef Ramos

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THIRDY RAVENA has 16 points, six rebounds and two assists in the 71-68 victory in the semifinals. POC MEDIA POOL

ANGKOK—The men’s 5x5 team got another scare this time from Indonesia in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games basketball competition. Gilas Pilipinas dig deep anew to frustrate the Indonesians, 7168, at the Nimibutr Stadium on Thursday afternoon to advance to the gold medal game against either Thailand or Malaysia, which played in the other semifinal in the evening match. “A win is a win. We’re happy with it,” Gilas coach Norman Black said. “We got a chance to move on to the finals.” The women’s 5x5 team also made the final following a 66-55 victory also

over Indonesia on Thursday. Kacey dela Rosa had another big game with 21 points, 11 rebounds, four steals and four blocks for the Gilas Pilipinas women who wil face either host Thailand or Malaysia in Friday’s final. “We have to give credit to the other team, they didn’t give up, they kept fighting,” added Black, whose wards had an easy game against Malaysia, 83-58 but had difficulty putting off Vietnam, 78-67, in pool play. Like the Vietnamese, the Indonesians came prepared—they jumped the gun on Gilas in the first quarter, 27-15, and held fort until the Filipinos fought back with two decisive spurts in the second and third quarters to take a 54-46 lead. And it took a mighty defensive effort in the waning seconds for the Filipinos to prevent the Indonesians from sinking a possible game-

ALEXANDRA EALA plays true to form and ends the country’s women’s singles gold medal drought that lasted 26 years. POC MEDIA POOL

tying three-pointer and get the opportunity to defend their crown. “We did make some knucklehead moves down the stretch as far as decision making is concerned,” Black said. Thirdy Ravena led Gilas with 16 points, six rebounds and two assists while Jamie Malonzo backed him up with 13 points and three boards. Ray Parks, who was ejected because of a flagrant foul late in the game, and team captain Robert Bolick had 12 and 10 points, respectively. The final is set at 7 p.m. local time. Derrick Xzavierro paced Indonesia with a double-double of 22 points and 15 rebounds while Senegalese-Indonesian big man Dame Diagne Diagne and Senegalese-Indonesian big man Dame Diagne Grahita each had 13. “It been a challenge for all the guys every step of the way,” Black said. “We are here and we will be back tomorrow [Friday] to take home the gold.”

Marcial, Villegas, Jara, Baricuatro eye nothing less than golds in boxing

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ANGKOK—Olympic medalists Eumir Marcial and Aira Villegas carry the country’s fight in boxing along with Flint Jara and Jay Brian Baricuatro in the finals on Friday at the Chulalongkorn University Sports Center. “Gold is the only color I want here,” said Villegas, bronze medalist in last year’s Paris Olympics who faces last year’s Asian champion Chutamat Raksat of Thailand in the women’s 50 kgs final. “It’s going to be a tough fight not just for me but for the rest of us,” added Villegas, who has a SEA Games bronze medal from the 2019 edition in Manila. Jara and Baricuatro are also fighting Thais in the finals, with Marcial, unbeaten in seven pro fights since claiming bronze at the Tokyo Olympics, facing Indonesian Maikhel Muskita. Baricuatro takes on with Phlongaurai Thitiwat in their men’s 48-kg clash, while Jara squares off with Thanarat Saengpet, a gold medalist in the 2023 games, in a 54-kg duel. Marcial is coming off a second round knockout of Vietnam’s Nguyen Manh Cuong as he faces Muskita in the 80-kg division.

“I must take him seriously. He’s a gold medalist in 2022 and 2023 when I was fighting in the middleweight class,” said Marcial, who wants to add a fifth games gold medal. “But I’m ready for him.” Marcial is a heavy favorite following his stunning knockout win in the semifinals and his 10year domination in gthe biennial meet since his debut in 2015 as a welterweight. Host Thailand has 16 boxers in the final—except in Marcial’s category—in both the genders, while Vietnam is fighting for golds in six divisions, Indonesia in five and Singapore in two classes. The Philippines has six bronzes— most of them a result of controversial decisions—Weljon Mindoro (75 kgs), Mark Ashely Fajardo (69 kgs), Hergie Bacyadan (65 kgs), Ofelia Magno (48 kgs), Risa Pasuit (57 kgs) and the most prominent, two-time Olympic medalist Nesthy Petecio (63 kgs). The hosts are intent at surpassing the nine gold, two silver and one bronze medals they captured two years ago in Phnom Penh, where the Philippines placed second with four gold medals. Josef Ramos

SOFTBALL is back in the game and so is the gold medal for the Philippines in the sport which wasn’t on the program of the Vietnam and Cambodia editions. POC MEDIA POOL