tion may have boosted the economy’s performance in the second quarter of 2025 despite the uncertainty in the global economy and higher tariffs, according to the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev).
This, amid the recent reduction in the GDP growth forecasts of the Asean+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (Amro) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to below 6 percent this year and next year.
DepDev Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan told reporters on Wednesday that the economy
would benefit from the lag effects of the interest rate reductions and slower inflation, which may have improved the second quarter economic growth compared to the first quarter 2025.
“That’s (domestic demand) what you can count on. And that’s actually what’s saving our economy now with all this uncertainty in the global economy. It’s domestic. So we have to strengthen that,” Balisacan said.
He also assured the public that the government is working on reforms to improve the country’s competitiveness. This will prepare
the country for changes in the global economy.
“If the economy improves, the global economy, we are ready. Unlike in the past decades, even though the global economy improved, we were not ready. So we missed the boat. So, that’s where we’re at. Still a lot of things to do,” Balisacan said, partly in Filipino. The strength of the domestic economy and policy reforms could help as Amro now expects the economy’s growth to average 5.6 percent in 2025 and 5.5 percent in 2026. Domestic demand, however,
ECONOMISTS FLAG RISK
By Cai U. Ordinario
THEreduction
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
uncertainty resulting from the US tariffs, according to the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev). One policy tool could allow affected industries to reimburse their Research and Development or innovation spending to make themselves more competitive in the global market, DepDev Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said. Balisacan said this possible
reimbursement is not a tradedistorting measure; it is allowed under the current trade regime and will not be flagged by the country’s trade partners.
“There are many tools of public policy. For example, if you really want to protect a particular sector that was affected, then you can use another policy to offset the losses of that sector. For example, maybe you can reimburse fully their R&D investment or innovation investment,” Balisacan told reporters on Wednesday.
DESPITE Manila’s affirming its ironclad defense cooperation with Washington, President Ferdinand Marcos’ “tough” tariff negotiations with US President Donald Trump resulted in only a 1-percentage point reduction on the 20-percent duties on Philippine goods, which will take effect next month. In exchange for the minimal reduction, which is still higher than the 17-percent initial tariff imposed by Trump in April, the Philippines has agreed to remove its tariffs on cars and other certain goods from the US and to buy more American products.
After his meeting with Marcos on Tuesday (US time), Trump posted on social media that a 19-percent tariff will be imposed on Philippine goods with the condition the Southeast Asian country will be an “open market” for US goods. The US earlier announced the new rates take effect August 1.
Open market
MARCOS confirmed the agreedupon 19 percent tariff, but he clarified that the zero tariff regime will only apply to some sectors such as cars. He maintained that the one percent concession was significant when put in “real terms.”
“We will open that [automobile] market and no longer charge tariffs on that,” he said in a press briefing
with reporters in Washington.
He also said the Philippines has agreed to increase its imports of US goods including soy products, wheat products, and medicine.
“So, we are coming to those arrangements. There’s still a lot of detail that needs to be worked out on the different products and the different exports and imports,”
Marcos said.
In a joint press conference at the White House last Tuesday (US time), Trump described Marcos as a “tough negotiator” when they were finalizing the “big trade deal.”
“He is negotiating too tough. In fact, I used to like him better than I do now. But we will probably agree on something. But he is a strong negotiator. He loves your country,”
Trump said when asked about the status of the tariff talks. Marcos, however, admitted that the 19- percent tariff was not based on his decision, when he was asked how he can justify the outcome of the tariff negotiations to Filipinos, especially the local manufacturers who may be negatively affected by it.
“That number doesn’t come from the Philippine government. So, you will have to ask whoever imposed the 19-percent tariff how they justify it. I couldn’t answer it,” he said. Possible renegotiation MARCOS and his economic team headed to Washington D.C. this week in their bid to negotiate for
@caiordinario
“BEAUTIFUL
Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said it remains “too early” to assess how the recently concluded US-Philippines trade deal would affect the country’s farm exports.
“Whether the Philippine agriculture sector will gain or not from this trade deal with the US remains to be seen, especially as many of our competitors are still negotiating for better terms,” Laurel said in a statement.
The US has already slashed tariffs on Indonesian exports to 19 percent from 32 percent. Vietnam secured a 20-percent rate, down from a proposed 46 percent, while goods from Vietnam will be taxed at 40 percent. Thailand and Cambodia have yet to finalize deals and face a proposed 36-percent tariff.
While overall the Philippines enjoyed a $3.98-billion trade surplus with the US in 2024, the DA noted that the country still suffered a $1.95-billion agricultural trade deficit, albeit narrower than the $2.36-billion shortfall in 2023.
Coconut oil was the Philippines’s top farm export to the US last year, reaching $558.7 million.
The Philippines’ top agricultural imports from the US included animal feeds ($1.36 billion), cereals and cereal products ($838.1 million), and other food and live animals (#384.1 million).
Laurel said that, at first glance, the zero tariff on US agricultural imports could support the government’s goal of achieving a food-secure Philippines by lowering the cost of key inputs, especially for livestock production.
Peso rises to 56.8 vs dollar after trade deals clarified
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THEPhilippine currency appreciated against the United States dollar on Wednesday, the day the country reached a new trade deal with one of its largest export markets to date.
The peso closed at P56.881 to the greenback on Wednesday. It opened at P56.85 and traded at a high of P56.98 and low of P56.85 to the dollar.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said the peso improved after some clarity with regard to the tariffs as well as the trade deals reached by countries like Japan.
“Market sentiment improved locally after US President Trump reduced the US tariffs on the Philippines to 19 percent—from the previous 20 percent announced since July 9, 2025—in a trade deal whereby the Philippines is going to open its market with the US and with zero tariffs—similar to the US
trade deal with Indonesia,” Ricafort said.
“However, President Marcos reportedly clarified that the Philippines only agreed to impose zero tariffs on imported US automobiles and not the entire Philippine market, with details to be ironed out after the US-Philippine trade talks,” he added.
However, Ricafort said uncertainty surrounding the statement of US President Donald Trump which stated that the two countries will “work together militarily” will spur volatility in markets.
“There could be some volatility in the markets, but this is already partly priced in/expected, so not
really as surprising anymore; but there is the chance that the worst tariffs could have been seen already for countries, especially those that already entered trade deals with the US such as the Philippines,” he said.
University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) economist Victor A. Abola said the strengthening of the US dollar is harmful for the economy. Allowing the local currency to depreciate will be more beneficial.
Abola said this will benefit Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as well as exporters, two of the most affected in geopolitical shifts and high tariff environment.
He noted that if the peso is allowed to depreciate to around P62 to the dollar, this can lead to higher consumption and job creation which will lead to faster GDP growth of around 6 percent in 2026.
Abola said an average pesodollar rate of P58.4 this year will lead to a growth of 5.5 percent in 2025, while a peso-dollar rate of P59.5 in 2026 will lead to a growth of 5.2 percent next year.
“Keeping peso-dollar low hurts OFWs, exports, (and) domestic producers,” Abola said in a midyear economic briefing at
the UA&P on Wednesday.
In June, ANZ Research said the “overvalued” peso has been hurting the performance of the Philippine economy, particularly the manufacturing sector and the competitiveness of exports.
In its latest analysis, ANZ Research pointed out that the overvalued peso has been “a persistent concern” that has weighed down the country’s competitiveness for years, as this has also occurred in the 1980s and 1990s.
The analysis said that based on traditional currency fair value models such as the real effective exchange rate (REER), the most cited gauge of a currency’s value, the peso has been overvalued since 2019. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/06/10/ overvalued-phl-peso-is-hurtingeconomy/).
Last week, The peso closed at P57.085 against the US dollar. This is the weakest the peso traded since June 24 when it closed at P57.16 to the US dollar.
The data also showed this is the first time the peso breached the P57 mark this month. Since June 25, the peso has been trading at the P56 level. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/07/17/peso-slipsagain-breaches-P57-level/).
Marcos, Trump meet…
the lowering of the tariff and for a possible bilateral or free trade agreement with the US after Trump announced on July 9 that he will raise the tariff on Philippine goods from 10 to 20 percent to address “trade deficit disparity.”
Based on the latest Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data, the US was the top destination for Philippine exports at 15.3 percent, with an equivalent value of US$1.115 billion as of last May.
Most or 29.7 percent of the country’s imports valued at US$3.13 billion, however, come from China, with the US coming only at fifth place with 6.1 percent, valued at US$647.34 million.
By addressing the country’s US$4.9-billion trade deficit with the US last year through increased imports of American goods, Marcos said they hope to renegotiate with Washington to bring down the 19-percent tariffs.
“Maybe we can go back to this if the markets around the world begin—are able to adjust,” he said.
Bad deal
IBON Foundation Executive Director Sonny Africa called the outcome of the tariff negotiations “grossly one-sided” and in favor of US interests.
“This is a bad deal and Pres. Marcos Jr is coming home empty-hand-
ed. There are virtually no benefits for the Philippines and only costs,” he said in a Viber message. He noted that the country’s decision to remove tariffs on US cars can trigger protest from its other trade partners.
“Zero tariffs on automobiles means revenue losses for the Philippines and preferential treatment of the US that other automobile exporters like Japan, Korea, China and the EU (European Union) can justifiably call out as discriminatory and also demand,” Africa said. He also said it will undermine the country’s efforts to develop its own auto industry.
Senator Imee R. Marcos, the President’s sister, also agreed that on its face, the PhilippinesUS tariff talks were disadvantageous for the Philippines.
“I have yet to see the final agreement. However, a mere 1-percent reduction in tariff rates for Philippine goods while having zero tariffs for US goods certainly does not look like a win for the Philippines,” Senator Marcos said in a statement.
Other Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia and Vietnam were able to significantly reduce their tariff rates from the US. Indonesia was able to bring down its tariff rate from 32 percent to 19 percent, while for Vietnam, it was 46 percent to 20 percent.
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would benefit from Amro’s latest estimate for inflation which is now at 1.8 percent for 2025. Amro expects inflation to remain at its April forecast of 3.2 percent in 2026. Nonetheless, Amro said, exports and business sentiment as well as investment activities in the Philippines may continue to be challenged this year and next year. This reflects the spillover of weak global economic growth in the Philippines. Amro’s Group Head & Principal Economist Allen Ng said, however, that the impact on the country of higher tariffs will not be significant.
“I think despite the revision downwards, I think it’s important to emphasize that the growth in the Philippines continues to be very robust, and it will continue to be driven by robust private consumption activities, given multiple factors, including continued stable labor market conditions. Slower inflation currently and also expectation of robust remittances going forward,” Ng said in a virtual briefing. For its part, ADB, the Manilabased multilateral development bank revised downward its growth forecast for the Philippines to 5.6 percent in 2025 and 5.8 percent in 2026, citing external headwinds. In the July Asian Development Outlook, ADB also noted that the country’s GDP growth in the first three months of the year was lower than expected at only 5.4 percent.
The multilateral development bank also said domestic demand grew 6.7 percent in the first quarter due to the slowdown in inflation and monetary policy easing. However, the faster growth in import receipts outpaced export earnings, leading net exports to become a drag on the country’s growth. ADB also noted that manufacturing PMI recovered slightly to 50.7 in June from 50.1 in May.
Tax on remittances
MEANWHILE , ADB said the One Big Beautiful Act in the United States, which intends to tax remittances, could lead to significant losses for the Philippines. The new law was enacted on 4 July 2025 and will become effective on 1 January 2026. In absolute terms, ADB said India’s loss would be the largest at $315 million. But the Philippines’s losses would be the second largest at around $250 million.
“The Philippines is projected to face the largest proportional decline, with US remittance inflows falling by the equivalent of 0.05 percent of GDP, followed by Viet Nam and Nepal (both 0.03 percent),” ADB said. The tax will shift part of the tax burden to immigrants. It will be collected by physical and online money transfer service providers while transfers through US banks or USissued debit or credit cards will be exempt.
The final rate of 1 percent adopted by the US Congress is much lower than the originally proposed 5 percent. Given this, ADB said the impact on remittances flows to Asia and the Pacific is projected to be very modest.
In May 2025, economists feared that Filipinos abroad may be forced to tap informal money senders or even consider the “black market” just to send remittances to their families in the Philippines. Former Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Dante B. Canlas told BusinessMirror that Filipinos may try to avoid the higher transaction fees just to send money to their families in the Philippines.
De La Salle University economist Maria Ella Oplas said if Filipinos abroad are pushed to the wall, they may resort to sending money through means that are “risky for Filipinos.”
Oplas said that since remittances account for about 10 percent of the country’s GDP, this would also have a significant impact on the economy’s performance (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/05/19/experts-seebacklash-from-us-remittancetax/). Cai U. Ordinario
Lawmaker asks Marcos to tackle land use, water service in Sona ’25
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
ALAWMAKER on Wednesday called on President Marcos to address two pressing national concerns in his State of the Nation Address (Sona)—the ongoing water service problems and the long-delayed enactment of the National Land Use Act (Nlua).
Las Piñas Rep. Mark Anthony Santos urged the President to certify as urgent the passage of the National Land Use Act—a proposed measure that has remained stalled in Congress for decades.
The House of Representatives passed House Bill 8162 on third and final reading on May 22, 2023, with a vote of 262-3. It was transmitted to the Senate two days later and referred to the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, then chaired by former senator Cynthia Villar.
The measure seeks to institutionalize a comprehensive land use framework to protect agricultural lands, guide urban development, and prevent environmentally destructive land conversions.
“This is long overdue, Mr. President. We need a clear and just national policy on land use,” Santos said. “The absence of such a law has resulted in unchecked urban sprawl, environmental degradation, and conflict within communities.”
Water crisis
SANTOS, at the same time, stressed that millions of Filipino households—especially in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces—continue to suffer from poor water quality, frequent service interruptions, and a lack of accountability from Villar-owned PrimeWater, a private concessionaire engaged in joint ventures with local water districts.
“The problem with PrimeWater is not just about access to water— it is a matter of human rights and
ASENIOR congressman has raised alarm over persistently high dropout rates in state universities and colleges (SUCs), and called for immediate action to reinforce the implementation of the Free Higher Education Law. Leyte District Rep. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Speaker of the 19th Congress, said that while the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (Republic Act 10931) was a landmark policy, the country must now confront the reality that nearly four out of every 10 students are still failing to complete their degrees.
“Free tuition was a landmark achievement, but the work is far from over. Nearly four out of 10 students in state universities and colleges are still dropping out. In some regions, the situation is even more alarming,” Rep. Romualdez said.
Citing data from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (Edcom 2), Romualdez said the national dropout rate in the school year 2023 to 2024 reached 39 percent. He noted that the situation is even more dire in certain regions. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) reported a staggering 93.4 percent dropout rate, followed by Central Visayas at 60.7 percent, Zamboanga Peninsula at 59.5 percent, Cordillera at 54.9 percent, Metro Manila at 52.4 percent, Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos) at 51.2 percent, and Western Visayas at 50.2 percent.
“These are not just statistics. They are shattered dreams and interrupted futures, often because
public health. Water is life,” Santos said. “Many residents in Las Piñas and other areas have long suffered from dirty water, frequent interruptions, and inaction from the company’s management.”
The first-term lawmaker urged Marcos to conduct a nationwide review of the nearly 100 joint venture agreements (JVAs) involving water utilities and to strengthen regulatory oversight from agencies such as the Local Water Utilities Administration (Lwua) and the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS).
Santos noted that an estimated 16 million consumers across the country are affected by service issues involving PrimeWater, underscoring the urgency of government action.
He said one of the worst-hit areas is the City of San Jose del Monte in Bulacan, which has initiated efforts to pre-terminate its JVA with PrimeWater owing to chronic water shortages and alleged breaches of contract.
Other affected provinces include Cavite, Bukidnon (particularly Malaybalay City), Bacolod City, Laguna, Pangasinan, and Bohol, where residents face similar problems such as poor water quality, frequent outages, delays in infrastructure development, and rising fees, he added.
Marcos is scheduled to deliver his fourth Sona on July 28 at the Batasang Pambansa Complex. He is expected to outline his administration’s achievements and priorities, including updates on economic growth, infrastructure development, agriculture, digital transformation, and national security.
Malacañang earlier said the President’s speech would offer a “clear and comprehensive” report to the Filipino people. In last year’s Sona, Marcos highlighted strong economic indicators and made decisive statements on defending the West Philippine Sea and banning all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogos).
students cannot afford transportation, food, rent, books or internet,” Romualdez said.
To address the growing concern, Romualdez expressed his strong support for House Resolution 61, filed by Bicol Saro Rep. Terry Ridon, which calls for a comprehensive review of RA 10931’s implementation and long-term viability.
The review, Romualdez stressed, must focus on expanding student support systems beyond tuition, such as providing monthly stipends, transportation and food subsidies, and digital access assistance.
“This is a gap we must urgently fill. If we truly want free higher education to be a ladder out of poverty, we need to make sure our students can actually stay in school and graduate,” he said.
He also cited a January 2024 Pulse Asia survey commissioned by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, which found that 98 percent of Filipinos support free tuition in public tertiary institutions—underscoring a strong public mandate to not only preserve but enhance the law.
“The Free Higher Education Law has changed millions of lives. But transformation is not complete when so many students are forced to drop out. Our mission is not just to provide access, but to ensure completion,” he said.
“We owe it to our students to fund this law properly. We owe it to every Filipino family to give their children a real chance at a better future. And we owe it to the nation to make education a powerful equalizer, not an unfinished promise,” Romualdez said. Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
DOJ’s Remulla orders prosecutors to let go of de Lima’s acquittal
JUSTICEBy Joel San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
Secretary Jesus Crispin
Remulla has ordered the withdrawal of the motion for reconsideration filed by prosecutors before the Regional Trial Court in Muntinlupa City, seeking the reversal of the trial court’s acquittal of former senator and now Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima in the conspiracy to commit illegal drug trading charges filed against her.
This was confirmed by Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon in a text message to reporters.
Fadullon said that he and the Justice secretary had already talked about the latter’s directive to withdraw the appeal.
“Yes. Within the week,” Fadullon said when asked if the Justice secretary had already directed him to order the handling prosecutors to withdraw the MR and when the motion for withdrawal is expected to be filed.
Fadullon said the motion “should not have been filed in the first place” as it amounts to double jeopardy.
Double jeopardy is a legal principle that an accused cannot be tried twice for the same offense based on the same conduct.
Its purpose is to protect the
accused from harassment, oppression, and abuse of power by the State.
It can be recalled that the Court of Appeals (CA) issued a ruling last May 2025 declaring as null and void the May 12, 2023 decision of the RTC in Muntinlupa City, acquitting de Lima of the drug charges.
The CA held that Muntinlupa City RTC Branch 204 Judge Joseph Abraham Alcantara committed grave abuse of discretion when he acquitted de Lima and his former bodyguard Ronnie Dayan mainly due the recantation of the prosecution’s principal witness, former Bureau of Corrections officer-incharge Rafael Ragos.
It ruled that Alcantara violated the Constitution and the Rules of Court which mandates “transparency and reasonableness of the decision making-process.”
The CA said the judge failed to state the specific facts retracted by Ragos and its effects to the facts proven by the prosecution and failed to identify the specific factual statements that were purportedly retracted by the witness.
Thus, the CA ordered the case be remanded to the trial court for it to decide the case in accordance with the rules stated in the decision.
Acting on the CA’s directive, the trial court issued another ruling on June 27, 2025 which maintained its May 12, 2023 decision in favor of de Lima and Dayan.
Alcantara insisted that Ragos’ recantation was “sufficient basis for the RTC to uphold the constitutionally guaranteed presumption of innocence.”
This prompted the prosecution panel led by Provincial Prosecutor Ramoncito Bienvenido Ocampo to file an MR seeking the reversal of the trial court’s June 27 decision.
The panel insisted that despite the recantation of Ragos, there are other pieces of evidence which are sufficient to prove de Lima’s guilt.
The prosecution panel also maintained that the trial court failed to heed the directive of the CA for it to show how the recantation of witness Ragos affected the prosecution’s case.
In a statement posted on her official Facebook account, de Lima commended Remulla for the withdrawal of the prosecution’s appeal which she branded as “unethical actuations” on the part of the prosecutors.
De Lima also turned the table
Storm, habagat death toll rises to 7
By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
HEAVY rainfall brought about by Tropical Depression Dante and the prevailing southwest monsoon of habagat continue to wreak havoc in Luzon, affecting more areas with floods and rain-induced landslides.
This, as the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said that seven persons were killed, seven were injured, and eight others were reported missing as a result of the combined effects of the southwest monsoon, Tropical Cyclone Crising, and the low pressure area that later intensified to become Tropical Depression Dante.
In its July 23 situation report, NDRMMC said a total of 401,439 families or 1,412,845 persons were affected by the non-stop rains that dumped a huge volume of water since July 17, which flooded lowlying areas, including the country’s capital, Manila, and other parts of Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
The NDRRMC said a total of 2,515 barangays in 369 cities and towns in 59 provinces across the country were affected.
A total of 508 areas in the Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon), Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan), Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Western Mindanao, Central Mindanao, Caraga, Metro Manila, and Negros experienced severe flooding.
The NDRRMC also reported 53 other related incidents, including rain-induced landslide, collapsed
structure, tornado, maritime incident, and drowning.
So far, a total of 1,642 houses have been damaged, with a combined cost of P2.7 million.
The estimated cost of damage to 126 infrastructure, including flood control facilities, roads, bridges, government buildings, health facilities, and schools, has now reached P562 million.
Meanwhile, the estimated cost of damage to agriculture has reached P463 million, while the estimated cost of damage to livestock, poultry, and fisheries reached P3.8 million, covering 7,646 hectares of farms and 7,953 agricultural infrastructures, machinery, and equipment, respectively.
NDRRMC said 11,734 farmers and fishermen were affected so far.
Because of the inclement weather and flooded roads, 29 cities and towns have been declared under a state of calamity.
So far, 2,216 road sections, 13 bridges, airports, and 55 seaports were affected.
Over the past few days, 971 cities and municipalities have declared suspension of classes, while 412 cities and towns have suspended work.
Floodings in various areas and the threat of overflowing rivers that are likely to submerge more low-lying areas have displaced 141,705 persons, most of whom are sheltered in 537 different evacuation centers put up by authorities since July 17.
Manila Water acts
WITH the onslaught of the southwest monsoon and the low-pressure area that induced rain across Luzon and parts of the Visayas, Manila Water Company Inc. said it
on the prosecutors as she asked Remulla to order an investigation and impose necessary sanctions against the prosecutors behind the filing of the MR. She also accused “the panel of prosecutors, or at least some of them” of having a political agenda in pursuing the drug charges against her.
“Secretary Remulla and PG Fadullon should deal with these remnants of the Duterte administration whose loyalty lies not with the DOJ, but with Duterte. They are seriously compromising the DOJ and the NPS [National Prosecution Service] under Remulla’s watch,” de Lima said.
“They have been doing so for the past seven years. Insofar as my case is concerned, they still answer to the Duterte cabal, like many in the government who are still loyal to FPRRD. [former President Roa Rodrigo Duterte],” she added.
When asked if the DOJ will heed de Lima’s demand to investigate the prosecutors handling her drug case, Fadullon replied: “Let’s take things one step at a time.” In their MR, the panel of prosecutors stressed that Ragos had consistently claimed that he personally delivered on two occasions, particularly on November 24, 2012 and December 15, 2012, the amount of P5 million, which came from the proceeds in the drug trade inside the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa (NBP), to Dayan and de Lima. Ragos’ testimony, according to the prosecutors, was corroborated by other witnesses.
DND attends Asean roundtable, to host meeting next year
has reactivated its Agapay: WASH for Emergencies program led by Manila Water Foundation to provide clean and safe drinking water to the most affected areas.
Over 62,000 displaced individuals in 236 evacuation centers in Metro Manila’s East Zone were provided relief in close coordination with the local governments.
In Quezon City and San Juan City, 56 evacuation centers are currently sheltering 1,712 families, totaling 6,090 individuals. Three hundred (300) units of five-gallon potable water were successfully delivered to San Juan City, while a 10-cubic-meter water tanker was deployed at San Agustin Church in Vasra, Quezon City.
Manila Water has also scheduled deliveries of five-gallon bottled water for barangays Culiat, Pasong Tamo, and Sauyo, all in Quezon City.
In Makati City and Mandaluyong City, six evacuation centers are accommodating 638 families or 2,966 individuals. A water tanker was deployed at San Antonio Covered Court in Makati, where 25 units of five-gallon potable water were delivered. Mandaluyong City also received 625 units of 5-gallon water distributed across five locations.
Among the most severely affected are Marikina City, Antipolo City, and the towns of Rodriguez and San Mateo in Rizal, with 93 evacuation centers hosting 9,032 families or 37,536 individuals. Water tankers were deployed to Malanday Elementary School, Nangka Elementary School, Concepcion Integrated School, and Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Elementary School.
TBy Rex Anthony Naval
HE Department of National Defense (DND) on Wednesday announced that it had participated in the Third Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Roundtable focused on cybersecurity, held on July 21 in Singapore. Representing the Department was lawyer Odessa Rossilyz Magisa, officer-in-charge of the Office for DND Information Security.
Magisa shared the DND’s perspectives on opportunities and mechanisms to strengthen trust and further Asean defense cooperation in the cyber and information domains. She also announced that the Philippines will host next year’s Roundtable in line with its 2026 Asean chairmanship, and extended an invitation to all counterparts to attend.
This year’s Roundtable was co-chaired by Dato’ Mohd Ammir bin Haron (Undersecretary, Policy and Strategic Planning Division, Ministry of Defense, Malaysia) and Col. Clarence Cai (Defense Cyber Chief, Digital and Intelligence Service, Singapore Armed Forces) under the theme, “Stronger Together: Strengthening Trust and Collaboration in Asean’s Digital Landscape.” The Third Asean Roundtable was one of the activities organized by the ADMM Cyber and Information Center of Excellence (Acice). All Asean member states, including representatives from Timor Leste and the Asean Secretariat, participated in the discussions.
Senators, party-list group slam outcome of Trump-Marcos talk
SBy Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
ENATORS and a party-list group had a pointed reaction to news that the Trump administration’s meeting with President Marcos resulted zero tariff for US exports to the Philippines.
In a statement on Wednesday, Sen. Panfilo Lacson said: “19 percent vs 0 percent tariffs is definitely not the most fair deal between decades-old friends or allies like the United States and the Philippines.”
Lacson continued: “If I may add, it is the worst insult that a host can throw at his guest. It is time for us to look for other trade partners.”
For his part, Senator Francis Pangilinan aired serious concern over reports that the Philippines approved a zero tariff rate for US goods entering the Philippines. He warned against its long-term impact on agricultural production and the livelihoods of farmers and fishermen.
Pangilinan called on Malacañang to be transparent on the new trade deal, specifically on the ag -
Lopez-led
Lricultural products that the new trade policy will cover.
“While we understand the need for economic stability, it should not come at the price of the livelihoods of our agricultural workers,” Pangilinan said. “If implemented without careful consideration, a zero tariff policy will disadvantage our farmers and fishermen, and put in peril our work toward food security and national development.”
In a social media post, US President Donald Trump had said that the Philippines “is going open market with the United States with zero tariffs,” although Marcos clarified that the zero tariffs will only be applied on certain products, such as automobiles.
However, Marcos also admitted that the Philippines will increase its importation of some US goods, like soy products, wheat products, and medicine.
“New policies and agreements must come with clear safeguards for local livelihoods. Our farmers need support, not setbacks. They need us to protect them, rather than put their livelihoods at risk,”
Pangilinan stressed.
Data from the Department of Agriculture (DA) showed that the Philippines imports animal feeds, cereal products, dairy products, meat and poultry, and fruits and vegetables from the US.
‘That’s it’?
AFTER Trump announced the results of Marcos’ state visit—a mere 1-percent cut to the 20-percent tariff on Philippine goods, no concessions for US imports, and tighter military ties—the party-list group Akbayan asked: “Was this worth the millions in taxpayer-funded travel? Was it worth abandoning a storm-ravaged nation?”
Akbayan President Rafaela David said: “Yun na yun? That’s all we got in exchange for jetting off while the country was underwater? A 1-percent tariff cut and vague promises? The Filipino people deserve more than platitudes.”
She warned that the recent visit reflects the same old pattern of lopsided agreements: “Once again, we give more than we get. This deal offers no clear
gains for our farmers, workers, or ordinary citizens; only vague promises and neglect, while their livelihood are being washed away by floods.
To make matters worse, the supposed deal reportedly includes a 0-percent tariff on imported US cars, a move that may be illegal under international trade rules, Akbayan claimed.
“Such preferential treatment can only be granted through a formal Free Trade Agreement [FTA],” David warned. “Otherwise, under the World Trade Organization’s Most-Favored Nation (MFN) principle, all WTO members can demand the same zero-tariff access. This reckless concession not only undermines Philippine interests but also exposes us to legal challenges and trade disputes.”
David emphasized that any trade or defense agreement must be guided by non-negotiables: a foreign policy centered on Philippine interest, full transparency and congressional oversight, and the principle of mutuality where all trade must be fair and all partners treated as equals.
FPIP, 17 locators top Tanauan taxpayers
OPEZ-LED economic zone
First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) and 17 of its locators have received recognitions from the local government of Tanauan City, Batangas, for topping the list of the city’s biggest taxpayers last year.
Seven of these companies contributed to the coffers of the Tanauan City LGU more than P1 billion in business and real property taxes in 2024—enough to support roughly one-fourth of the locality’s P4.3-billion budget in 2024.
FPIP and nine locators also swept all the awards under the top 10 real property taxpayer (RPT) category, while eight of them made it to the list of Tanauan City’s 10 biggest sources of business tax.
“I would like to believe that the richest LGU in Batangas now is Tanauan City, because our partners from the business sector are paying their taxes,” Tanauan City
Mayor Nelson Collantes said during city hall ceremonies on July 14 to honor the top taxpayers. Tanauan City organizes the annual awarding ceremonies to honor and show appreciation to the city’s biggest taxpayers.
Vice Mayor Wilfredo Ablao, for his part, disclosed during the same awarding ceremonies that the tax contributions helped the local government to double its budget for education assistance and other city programs. Because of the increased tax payments, the number of schoolchildren receiving benefits under the LGU’s education assistance program doubled from 27,000 to 54,000; and the number of beneficiaries per family, from two to four schoolchildren, Ablao said.
“We are proud to be a partner of Tanauan, not just in terms of the substantial tax contribution but also because of the jobs that we create for the local community.
When FPIP prospers so does the city,” said Ricky Carandang, FPIP vice president.
Honda Philippines Inc., a motorcycle assembler inside FPIP, paid Tanauan City P275.15 million in business tax to become the biggest source of this type of payment to the LGU last year. Honda Philippines also paid another P49.34 million in real property tax (RPT), which was the fifth biggest amount of RPT paid by one taxpayer to Tanauan City last year.
Philip Morris Fortune Tobacco Corporation, a tobacco product maker inside FPIP, received recognition as Tanauan City’s biggest source of RPT (P176.48 million) and third-biggest source of business tax (P56.17 million) in 2024.
The combined P324.5 million in business and real property taxes of Honda Philippines also made the company the top source of both of these taxes in Tanauan City in 2024.
Five locators and FPIP itself joined Honda Philippines in completing the list of the top seven sources of these two taxes in Tanauan City. Rounding up this list in descending order of their tax contributions were Philip Morris Fortune (P232.65 million), Nestlé Philippines Inc. (P149.41 million), Philippine Manufacturing Co. Murata Inc. (P77.21 million), FPIP (P54.53 million), Brother Industries Philippines Inc. (P50.29 million), and Canon Business Machine Philippines Inc. (P40.87 million). Lopez-controlled First Philippine Holdings Corporation, together with partner Sumitomo Corporation of Japan, established FPIP in Batangas as a world-class location for global manufacturers and traders, as well as a platform for creating jobs for ordinary Filipinos and tax revenues for the government. Today, the 600-hectare ecozone provides employment to nearly 80,000 Filipinos.
Smart cities a distant dream with broken basics–tech firm
BUILDING smart cities in the Philippines will remain out of reach unless local governments address fundamental urban issues such as traffic congestion, aging infrastructure and weak emergency response systems, the American technology firm Vantiq said.
Lawmakers cite economic gains in Marcos’ US trip
THE recent official visit of President Marcos to the United States has unlocked significant economic advantages for the Philippines, with the reduction of US tariffs on Philippine goods from 20 percent to 19 percent is seen as a pivotal step in enhancing the country’s global trade standing, lawmakers said on Wednesday.
Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, speaker of the 19th Congress, emphasized that the trip yielded concrete economic benefits that will boost exports, generate jobs, and empower local industries—particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
“This is more than just an official working visit. This is a statement of confidence that the Philippines is ready to lead, to compete, and to stand tall among nations,” Romualdez said.
“President Marcos has once again proven that our foreign policy can be both principled and pragmatic, firm in defending our interests, but also generous in building alliances that uplift our people,” he added.
Romualdez highlighted that the reduced tariff rate creates a more competitive environment for Philippine-made products in the US, the country’s top trading partner.
Following negotiations with United States President Donald Trump, Marcos announced a reduction of the US tariff rate on Philippine goods from 20 percent to 19 percent.
According to the Palace, the revised tariff rates placed the Philippines among the most competitively positioned Southeast Asian economies trading with the United States. Currently, the Philippines holds the second-lowest tariff rate in the region at 19 percent, with Singapore, which has a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US, maintaining the lowest at 10 percent. US tariffs for other Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries range between 19 percent and 49 percent.
“Access to the US market is a gamechanger. It means more small and medium Filipino enterprises will be able to compete globally. It means more chances for our farmers, our fisherfolk, and our local producers to earn and grow. We are bringing the world closer to our shores and bringing Filipino excellence to the world,” he said.
“Nations are not built overnight.
What matters is that President Marcos secured a seat at the table, and the terms
Habagat. . .
Continued from A3
Sixteen (16) units of 5-gallon water bottles were delivered to the Kingsville evacuation center in Barangay Mayamot, while 500 units of 5-gallon potable water will be delivered and distributed to shelters in Marikina, 250 units in San Mateo, and another 250 units in Rodriguez.
of engagement can be shaped from here. This is how statesmanship works: steady, strategic, and always with the people in mind,” he explained.
Defense ties
ROMUALDEZ also underscored the economic and strategic value of the reinforced defense cooperation, emphasizing its alignment with regional efforts to maintain peace and stability in the West Philippine Sea. He said the strengthened security partnership not only defends Philippine territorial integrity but also safeguards the livelihood of Filipino fishermen and ensures long-term national development.
“The issue in the West Philippine Sea is not just about defending our territory— it’s about defending the rights of every Filipino fisherman to earn a living, every community to feel safe, and every future generation to inherit what is rightfully theirs,” Romualdez said.
“Through this partnership, we are reinforcing peace, not provoking conflict,” Romualdez said. He stressed that enhanced defense ties with strategic partners like the US help deter aggression, foster regional stability, and protect economic zones vital to the country’s food and energy security.
The Young Guns also expressed their full support for Marcos’s recent diplomatic engagement with the US.
La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega said, “President Marcos Jr.’s engagement with President Trump exemplifies his skillful leadership in advancing the Philippines’ interests on the global stage. His independent foreign policy ensures our nation’s priorities remain at the forefront.” Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong highlighted the significance of balanced diplomacy, saying, “We stand firmly behind President Marcos Jr.’s principled leadership. His ability to maintain strong alliances while prioritizing our sovereignty is a testament to his vision for a stronger Philippines.”
Addressing Trump’s remarks about a former Philippine leader’s pivot to China, Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun noted, “We agree with President Trump’s observation that an overreliance on any single power would not serve our nation’s interests. President Marcos Jr.’s independent stance ensures we avoid such pitfalls while building robust global ties.” Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
sewer jetter services to help local governments clean roads affected by the flooding, reinforcing its dedication to public health and safety during this critical time.
Meralco power restoration
THE Manila Electric Company (Meralco) said on Wednesday it continues to restore power to the remaining 2,790 customers affected by service interruptions due to the inclement weather.
Speaking during a presentation in Ortigas in early July, Vantiq vice president for business development Sameer Bhandari emphasized that digital solutions cannot mask dysfunctions rooted in everyday urban life.
Beyond transport, public safety remains a key concern.
“In the Philippines, average urban commuters lose an average of about 98 hours per year,” Bhandari said, adding that the economic loss from this inefficiency “results in about P1.2 billion [in] sales every day...lost by productivity by people who are sitting in traffic.”
“Only 28 percent of Philippine cities currently have access to a centralized emergency response system,” Bhandari noted, adding that this was the top concern raised during recent conversations with government officials.
Given such, Vantiq proposed a more localized, responsive approach to digitization, in which the company unveiled artificial intelligence-powered platforms tailored for Filipino cities.
One of its featured technologies is a smart ambulance app that lets paramedics send real-time patient data to hospitals before arrival.
For disaster response, the firm demonstrated a system that draws from weather, traffic and geolocation data to issue real-time evacuation routes and shelter updates.
Data from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council as of July this year showed that floods, landslides and incidents involving falling debris have affected more than 82,500 people across the country.
On one hand, the 2024 Traffic Index by global data firm TomTom indicated that Davao City ranked 10th worldwide in time spent on the road, followed by Manila and Caloocan, which placed 15th and 18th, respectively.
Regarding government efforts, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) leads key initiatives in disaster management.
Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) recently launched a three-year partnership to improve Metro Manila’s traffic systems, with its pilot activities beginning in Pasig City.
Locally, the DOST defines a smart city as an “integrated, adaptive, and responsive system” where people, institutions, infrastructure, and policies are synchronized toward shared goals through the aid of technology.
Last month, Science Undersecretary Sancho Mabborang explained that one of the primary criteria for selecting LGUs under the program is strong leadership commitment. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/06/08/3rdiscene-proves-smart-cities-beginwith-people/)
As of now, 91 local governments are enrolled in the national Smart City Program, with 10 to 15 more expected to join once election-related restrictions are lifted.
Internationally, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) defines smart cities as urban areas that apply data and digital innovation to improve social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Bless Aubrey Ogerio
Coordination continues with the local government of Pasig City, Cainta, Taytay, Angono, and Binangonan to ensure adequate water supply in these areas, which currently houses a total of 60 evacuation centers supporting 3,841 families or 14,703 individuals.
Meanwhile, 400 units of fivegallon potable water will also be delivered to support evacuees in Taguig City, which has 20 evacuation centers housing 387 families or 1,534 individuals.
“As the rains persist, Manila Water remains steadfast in ensuring that evacuation centers with existing water service connections maintain sufficient water pressure. The Company continues to respond promptly to requests from local government units for additional water tankers and potable water to support displaced communities,” Manila Water said in a statement.
The company added that it is committed to provide adequate water pressure to facilitate postevacuation cleaning activities as those displaced by the inclement weather begin to return home.
The company said it is also extending its assistance by deploying
Most of these customers are from Cavite, Metro Manila, and Bulacan.
Meralco also said it is on full alert with the entry of Tropical Depression Dante and enhanced southwest monsoon which are expected to bring heavy rains across its franchise area.
“We remain vigilant as we monitor the current weather conditions that affect our franchise area. We remain fully committed to restoring electricity service to all impacted customers as safely and swiftly as possible,” Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.
“Along with the Department of Energy, we also reiterate our call to continue practicing caution and follow electrical safety guidelines, especially in flood-affected areas,” he added.
Beyond service restoration, Meralco also extended help to residents heavily affected by the current situation. It deployed high-bed trucks and motorized fiberglass boats to support power restoration and rescue operations, while its social development arm already began disaster relief efforts. With Lenie Lectura
Cebu BRT to launch pilot run next month, promising faster commutes for Cebuanos
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
THE pilot run of the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (Cebu BRT) is set to take place next month, the transportation department said on Wednesday.
Department of Transportation (DOTr)
Secretary Vince Dizon said at least three stations of the mass transit system will be operational in September, serving some 70,000 commuters. These three stations are Fuente, Cebu Normal University, and Cebu South Bus Terminal Station.
The construction for the Cebu Capitol station will commence after the detailed engineering design is completed. Meanwhile, Phases 2A and 3A of the Cebu-BRT, which are composed of 13 stations and 62 bus stops, will be completed before in 2028.
Earlier, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the agency to fast track the completion of the Cebu-BRT to ease traffic in the province.
“Cebu-BRT is going to benefit a lot of Cebuanos. We are already expediting the construction of other BRT stations so that more areas and more commuters will benefit from this project,” Dizon, who met with local government officials in Cebu, said. Dizon expressed his gratitude to the Cebu Provincial local government for coordinating with his offce in addressing issues of the project.
“The President has ordered to expedite the completion of this project. Our Cebuano compatriots can count on us to do everything we can to help commuters make their journey faster and more comfortable,” added Dizon.
Signal No. 1 hoisted in 4 Northern Luzon provinces as LPA develops into a storm
SIGNAL No. 1 hoisted in 4 Northern Luzon provinces as LPA develops into a storm.
The low-pressure area (LPA) West of Babuyan Islands has developed into a tropical depression and is now called “Emong,” the state weather bureau said.
Aside from Emong, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is still monitoring Tropical Depression (TD) “Dante,”which is hovering over the Philippine Sea extreme northern Luzon.
With Emong, Tropical Cyclone Signal No. 1 is in effect over Ilocos Norte, the western portion of Ilocos Sur (Sinait, San Juan, Cabugao, Santo Domingo, Magsingal, Bantay, San Ildefonso, San Vicente, Santa Catalina, City of Vigan, Caoayan, Santa, Narvacan, Santa Maria, San Esteban, Santiago, City of Candon, Santa Lucia, Santa Cruz, Tagudin), the northwestern portion of La Union (City of San Fernando, San Juan, Bacnotan, Luna, Balaoan, Bangar, Bauang), and the western portion of Pangasinan (Dasol, Burgos, Agno, Bani, Bolinao, City
₧13.6M
of Alaminos, Mabini, Anda).
Emong is spotted 115 km West Northwest of Laoag City, Ilocos Norte and is moving West Southwestward at 35 km/h.
It is currently packing maximum sustained winds of 45 km/h near the center and gustiness of up to 55 km/h.
Emong is forecasted to move generally southwestward today before looping over the West Philippine Sea tomorrow (24 July) due to its interaction with TD Dante. Afterwards, it will move generally northeastward while accelerating and pass close to Ilocos Region, Babuyan Islands and Batanes.
A landfall scenario over Ilocos Region, Babuyan Islands, and/or Batanes remains possible, especially if there are eastward shifts in the track forecast, the state weather bureau said.
Emong may reach tropical storm category tomorrow afternoon or evening.
“Further intensification is possible until Friday [25 July], and intensification into a severe tropical storm before the close approach or landfall is not ruled out,” it said. Jonathan L. Mayuga
shared processing facility to ease work for Laak rubber planters
By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox
DAVAO CITY–A rubber processing facility intended as a shared facility for rubber planters in Davao de Oro province is expected to ease the work of rubber planters and increase the value of their product, the provincial Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.
The P13.6 million shared service facility (SSF) for natural crumb rubber SPR-20 processing was inaugurated at the Laak Multipurpose Cooperative (LAMPCO), which the DTI described as “transformative leap for the rubber industry, not only in Davao de Oro but also across the Davao and Caraga regions by strengthening the local rubber value chain”.
The SSF consists of a creper, slab cutter, heat furnace, stainless dust collector assembly, metal detector and electrical wiring. The facility can process 30 tons of rubber cup lumps that it can turn into natural crumb rubber SPR-20 finish product worth P3.1 million in the market.
Art A. Hermoso, officer in charge of the Davao de Oro DTI office, said the Farma Rubber Industries Inc. and other rubber processors and exporters were the identified target market. Some 2,000 micro, small and medium entrepreneurs and 10,000 rubber farmers across Davao, Caraga and Region 12 are expected to benefit from the SSF.
The LAMPCO alone, which was established in August 1986, has 4,241 members.
Garbage worsens flooding in Metro Manila; MMDA hauls 76 tons from pumping stations
TRUCKLOADS of garbage were hauled from various areas and pumping stations in Metro Manila which worsened the floods, triggered by the onslaught of typhoon “Crising” and the southwest monsoon.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority blamed the haphazard dumping of garbage as among the main causes of flooding in the metropolis as the agency’s officials inspected the Tripa de Gallina Pumping Station in Pasay City, the largest pumping station in the National Capital Region (NCR). Meanwhile, the MMDA said more than 76 metric tons of garbage were collected and removed by their personnel amid heavy rains and flooding in the metropolis.
T he agency said that 26.37 truckloads of garbage, equivalent to 76.923 metric tons, were hauled from various areas in the metropolis during the clean-up operations from July 21 to 22.
MMDA Chairman Romando Artes, meanwhile, assured that all 71 pumping stations,
Better regulations, not outright ban, needed to curb rise of unregulated gambling platforms–study
By Andrea San Juan @andreasanjuan
BETTER regulations, not an outright ban, are needed to prevent the proliferation of unregulated gambling platforms, according to a study conducted by Filipino-focused sociocultural research firm The Fourth Wall.
This is the key finding from the latest study by the said research firm which surveyed 1,250 current online gambling players from urbanized areas across Mega Manila, Metro Cebu, Metro Davao, and key cities in other growth centers in the country.
Among those surveyed, the study noted that most players “migrated” from informal or unregulated street gambling environments such as cockfights, perya or social media betting while only 7 percent came from land-based casinos—suggesting that regulated online gambling “fills a different need.”
The study categorized the respondents based on different levels of risk, self-perception, and gambling behavior.
It found that 36 percent of respondents were “break-even optimists,” or those who believe they break even, gamble moderately, and don’t borrow funds.
Meanwhile, 12 percent of them are “risky borrowing high-frequency bettors’ or individuals with a high borrowing rate and “relatively frequent” gambling, placing them at risk of financial strain.
Most of those surveyed or 85 percent do not borrow money for betting, the research firm underscored.
According to the study, curiosity, boredom, and peer influence were the top reasons for trying online gambling, and only 8 percent of respondents cited platform perks like bonuses and convenience, suggesting gambling is “not merely a transactional activity but a social and recreational activity for many Filipinos.”
The Fourth Wall said safety and legitimacy are “top priorities” for online gambling players, saying they look for platforms that are “legitimate” to avoid scams, emphasizing the need for trustworthy platforms and effective regulation to guard against cheating and illegal gambling.
However, the research firm said noted that even regulated platforms are not immune to “user frustrations.”
Delayed withdrawals, lost money, and app glitches like login issues, errors during betting, and app crashes, are players’ top concerns, the resarch firm revealed.
The study highlights a “strong preference” for access to regulated online gambling with safeguards over outright prohibition.
Over half of the respondents or 53 percent oppose a ban on regulated online gambling, while only 18 percent support it. Meanwhile, another 16 percent agree with a ban but with reservations.
For 75 percent of online gambling
players, a ban will not stop online gambling and would instead drive people toward illegal sites, social media betting, and unregulated foreign platforms, the study underscored.
Instead, majority or 80 percent support banning unregulated online gambling platforms mainly to avoid scams and curb addiction,especially among youth and low-income groups.
For his part, John Brylle L. Bae, Research Director at The Fourth Wall, said the firm’s study reveals “greater preference” for safer and regulated platforms among Filipino online gambling players.
“There is an understanding among them that an outright ban won’t stop online gambling, but instead push it underground, increasing risks like scams and addiction through unregulated channels. This suggests their call for regulation is rooted in safer options and better consumer protection,” added Bae.
Further, the study looked into players’ perceptions of government regulation.
“About 73 percent of those surveyed say regulation from institutions such as PAGCOR matters. In particular, 61 percent believe PAGCOR is doing its job, but a significant 34 percent remain unsure, citing limited understanding of the agency’s full responsibilities,” the research firm said.
It added that this finding points to a need not only for regulation, but for “clearer” public education and
transparent communication from regulators.
The study also pointed out that online gambling adoption surged post-pandemic from 2022 to 2024, with the “strong influence” of lockdowns, digital migration, and possibly increased advertising and social influence as factors.
In 2024, the study noted that online gambling recorded P410 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR), and it is projected to reach up to P480 billion this year.
Moreover, it revealed that e-wallets play a key role in responsible gambling.
“The majority of players or 92 percent prefer using GCash, followed by Maya, with 6 percent, while only 2 percent use over-the-counter payment outlets,” the study noted. Meanwhile, approximately 73 percent of e-wallet users trust the platforms’ age and identity checks, and 64 percent believe these platforms effectively help them regulate their spending, enabling them to play responsibly.
Bae emphasized that this study is not about promoting or going against gambling, but about “recognizing both the cultural realities and regulatory responsibilities at hand with the ultimate aim of protecting people.”
“As online gambling continues to rise in the country, there must be a shift toward more data-driven, research-informed dialogue towards regulation and policymaking,” he also noted.
Marcos backs Remulla amid criticism over informal class suspension
announcements
PBy Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos defend -
ed Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” C. Remulla against criticisms for being too “informal” in his government work and class suspension announcements.
“As long as he gets the message across, that’s what it’s for. That’s what all of these postings are for and get some information across,” the Chief Executive said in a press briefing in Washington D.C. last Tuesday (United States time).
Malacañang earlier said Remulla was granted authority by the President to declare government work and class suspension.
Remulla drew the ire of some netizens and a labor group for his alleged flippant manner of declaring the suspension posted in the official social media page of DILG.
The BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) Industry Employees’ Network (BIEN) described the tone of the said advisories as “filled with memes, forced humor, and attempts to be relatable.”
It also called Remulla as unprofessional and deeply insensitive after he said workers as “immortal” for reporting to work despite the life-threatening floods in a post on 23 July 2025.
Last Wednesday, Remulla acknowledged the criticisms against him, but he defiantly said that he will not change to conform to the standards of other people.
“If my joke is inappropriate for you, remember that I did not curse or belittle
anyone. I also did not slander or tell lies.
A little humor never hurt anyone,” Remulla said in Filipino in a social media post.
New suspensions
THE DILG chief then announced the suspension of government work and classes in all levels for both public and private schools in the 36 areas on July 24, 2025 with the arrival tropical storm “Emong.”
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said tropical storm “Emong” and “Dante” are expected to bring heavy rainfall in some parts of the country this week as they enhance the effects of the southwest monsoon.
vital in addressing the flooding problems in Metro Manila, are working at full capacity after President Ferdinand Marcos recently ordered all concerned government agencies to implement proactive measures and ensure complete readiness as many communities are dealing with the effects of southwest monsoon or Habagat.
Data from the MMDA showed that 526.8 metric tons of garbage were collected from pumping stations from Jul8 18 to 22.
Heavy loads of garbage were retrieved by MMDA personnel at the Tripa De Gallina Pumping Station, on Tuesday (July 22), which included old furniture, broken refrigerators, wheels, trunks of fallen trees, and other big garbage.
“When plastics are sucked into the pump, they get coiled in the engine, resulting in overheating. The efficiency of our pumping stations are really affected and could result in damaged equipment,” Artes explained.
“Garbage,”
ATOTAL of 3,009 barangays have been identified as highly susceptible to floods and rain-induced landslides due to the projected rainfall brought about by the Southwest Monsoon and Tropical Depression (TD) “Dante” in the next three days.
In the National Capital Region (NCR), a total of 1,403 barangays in 17 cities have been identified as prone to floods, with the City of Manila topping the list of cities. According to the DENR document, 786 barangays in Manila are likely to experience flooding until Friday because of the nonstop rains. This is followed by Quezon City with a total of 138 flood-prone barangays and Pasay City, with 119 barangays.
C aloocan City also has 92 flood-prone barangays, making it the 4th flood-prone city in Metro Manila.
High Flood Susceptibility (HFS) DENR released a list of barangays prone to flood and rain-induced landslide based on the accumulated rainfall observed from July 17 to 21, including areas that have very high flood susceptibility, high flood susceptibility, and moderate flood susceptibility.
Very High Flood (VHF) susceptibility areas are likely to experience flood heights above 2 meters and or flood durations of more than 3 days. These areas are also prone to flash floods.
O ccidental Mindoro, Benguet, Zambales, Kalinga, Isabela, and Nueva Ecija in Luzon, and Antique in the Visayas have
been identified as areas with high flood susceptibility.
HFS means ar eas are likely to experience flood heights of 1 to 2 meters, and a flood duration of more than 3 days. T hese areas are immediately flooded due to heavy rains of several hours.
Moder ate Flood Susceptibility (MFS) means areas that are likely to experience flood heights of .5 to 1.0 meters and or flood duration of 1 to 3 days.
TD Dante, Habagat
TD Dante intensifies on Wednesday morning, as it hovers over the Philippine Sea, affecting extreme northern Luzon, inducing rain brought about by Habagat, the state weather reported.
T he eye of the storm was spotted 880 km East of Extreme Northern Luzon, moving Northwestward at 25 km/h, and packing maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h and gustiness of up to 75 km/h.
It is expected to leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility in the early morning of July 25.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said in its Weather Advisory issued on July 23 that rain brought about by the Southwest Monsoon and a Low Pressure Area affecting the country’s weather system is expected to bring more rains in Luzon, particularly Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Ilocos Region.
Also in the list are Marinduque, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Palawan, Romblon, Albay, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Sorsogon, Masbate, Antique, and Iloilo.
Executive Secretary issued Memorandum Circular No. 91 last Wednesday, which formalized the said declaration from DILG. The government has issued similar suspension since Monday due to heavy rains caused by the southwest monsoon (Habagat).
“Suspension of work in government offices is in effect in the same areas, except for essential personnel such as responders and emergency services — you must enter if necessary,” Remulla said. The suspension covers Metro Manila, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Nueva Vizcaya, Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Cavite, Quezon, Batangas. Laguna, and Rizal.
DENR: 3,000+ barangays highly susceptible to floods, landslides due to ‘Dante,’ monsoon
“Widespread incidents of severe flooding and landslides [are] expected in areas experiencing heavy rains 200 mm and above, particularly in Zambales, Bataan and Occidental Mindoro, which are experiencing heavy rain today, Wednesday until possibly Friday. Pangasinan, La Union, Benguet, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Metro Manila, Cavite Batangas, Laguna and Rizal are projected to receive moderate to heavy rain or between 100 to 200 mm of rain until Friday. T his means that numerous flooding events are likely, especially in areas that are urbanized, low lying or near rivers. Landslides are likely in moderate to highly susceptible areas, the state weather bureau added.
Accumulated rainfall
THE DENR, through its Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), came up with the list based on the observed rainfall from July 17 to 21. Some areas have received a huge volume of rain that exceeded last year’s average rainfall in July.
The observation station in Sangley Point, Cavite, recorded the highest, with 722.9 mm of rain during the said period, followed by the Science Garden in Quezon City. T he Abucay, Bulacan observation station recorded 639.7 mm of rain from July 17-21, for the third spot.
Areas highly at risk of flooding TOPPING the list with areas that are highly
susceptible to flooding due to TD Dante and the Southwest Monsoon are: Cagayan Valley with 1,172 flood-prone and landslide-prone barangays, followed by the Bicol Region with 901; Western Visayas with 689; and MIRAROPA with 247.
On Thursday, more areas may experience heavy rainfall, making them prone to rain-induced landslides and floods. Based on PAGASA’s weather outlook, the DENR said a total of 4,954 barangays are at risk. Topping the list is Central Luzon with 1,986 barangays, followed by Ilocos Region with 1,799; Cordillera Administrative Region, 632; and Calabarzon, 537.
Mean while, the DENR projected that 198 cities and municipalities in Regions I, II, III, CAR, IV-B, and VI will be affected by flooding. According to the DENR, 73 percent or 8,932,067 of the 11,752,959 total population from 4,024 barangays stand to be affected by the inclement weather.
“Occidental Mindoro, Antique, and Zambales are forecasted to have the highest number of affected barangays (over 80%) to experience rainfall in the next 3 days,” it said.
Mean while, Occidental Mindoro (94.83%), Benguet (84.4%), and Zambales (83.79%), are forecasted to have the highest affected population [over 80%] in the next 3 days.
In the Visayas, Antique and Guimaras are forecasted to have the highest affected population (90.59% and 48.49%) to experience rainfall in the next 3 days.-
Editor: Angel R. Calso
UN body says Israeli forces have killed over 1,000 aid-seekers in Gaza since May, as hunger worsens
By Wafaa Shurafa, Samy Magdy & Tia Goldenberg The Associated Press
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip—
More than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces since May while trying to get food in the Gaza Strip, mostly near aid sites run by an American contractor, the UN human rights office said Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Israeli strikes killed 25 people across Gaza, according to local health officials.
Desperation is mounting in the Palestinian territory of more than 2 million, which experts say is at risk of famine because of Israel’s blockade and nearly two-year offensive. A breakdown of law and order has led to widespread looting and contributed to chaos and violence around aid deliveries.
Israel accuses Hamas of siphoning off aid—without providing evidence of widespread diversion— and blames UN agencies for failing to deliver food it has allowed in. The military says it has only fired warning shots near aid sites. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an Israeli-backed American contractor, rejected what it said were “false and exaggerated statistics” from the United Nations.
The Gaza Health Ministry, which is part of the Hamas-run government and staffed by medical professionals, said Tuesday that 101 people, including 80 children, have died in recent days from starvation.
The deaths could not be independently verified, but UN officials and
major international aid groups say the conditions for starvation exist in Gaza. During hunger crises, people can die from malnutrition or from common illnesses or injuries that the body is not strong enough to fight.
Israel eased a 2½-month blockade in May, allowing a trickle of aid in through the longstanding UN-run system and the newly created GHF. Aid groups say it’s not nearly enough.
‘I do it for my children’ DOZENS of Palestinians lined up Tuesday outside a charity kitchen in Gaza City, hoping for a bowl of watery tomato soup. The lucky ones got small chunks of eggplant. As supplies ran out, people holding pots pushed and shoved to get to the front.
Nadia Mdoukh, a pregnant woman who was displaced from her home and lives in a tent with her husband and three children, said she worries about being shoved or trampled on, and about heat stroke as daytime temperatures hover above 90 F (32 C).
“I do it for my children,” she said. “This is famine—there is no
bread or flour.”
The UN World Food Program says Gaza’s hunger crisis has reached “new and astonishing levels of desperation.” Ross Smith, the agency’s director for emergencies, told reporters Monday that nearly 100,000 women and children are suffering from severe acute malnutrition, and a third of Gaza’s population is going without food for multiple days in a row.
MedGlobal, a charity working in Gaza, said five children as young as 3 months had died from starvation in the past three days.
“This is a deliberate and human-made disaster,” said Joseph Belliveau, its executive director. “Those children died because there is not enough food in Gaza and not enough medicines, including IV fluids and therapeutic formula, to revive them.”
The charity said food is in such short supply that its own staff members suffer dizziness and headaches.
Aid delivery model criticized OF the 1,054 people killed while trying to get food since late May, 766 were killed while heading to sites run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, according to the UN human rights office. The others were killed when gunfire erupted around UN convoys or aid sites.
Thameen al-Kheetan, a spokesperson for the UN rights office, says its figures come from “multiple reliable sources on the ground,” including medics, humanitarian and human rights organizations. He said the numbers were still being verified according to the office’s strict methodology.
Palestinian witnesses and health officials say Israeli forces
regularly fire toward crowds of thousands of people heading to the GHF sites. The military says it has only fired warning shots, and GHF says its armed contractors have only fired into the air on a few occasions to try to prevent stampedes.
A joint statement from 28 Western-aligned countries on Monday condemned the “the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians.”
“The Israeli government’s aid delivery model is dangerous, fuels instability and deprives Gazans of human dignity,” read the statement, which was signed by the United Kingdom, France and other countries friendly to Israel.
“The Israeli government’s denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable.”
Israel and the United States rejected the statement, blaming Hamas for prolonging the war by not accepting Israeli terms for a
ceasefire and the release of hostages abducted in the militantled attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which triggered the fighting.
Hamas has said it will release the remaining hostages only in return for a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal. Israel says it will keep fighting until Hamas has been defeated or disarmed.
Strikes on tents sheltering the displaced ISRAELI strikes killed at least 25 people Tuesday across Gaza, according to local health officials.
One strike hit tents sheltering displaced people in the built-up seaside Shati refugee camp in Gaza City, killing at least 12 people, according to Shifa Hospital, which received the casualties. The Israeli military said that it wasn’t aware of such a strike by its forces.
The dead included three women and three children, the hospital director, Dr. Mohamed
Abu Selmiya, told The Associated Press. Thirty-eight other Palestinians were wounded, he said.
An overnight strike that hit crowds of Palestinians waiting for aid trucks in Gaza City killed eight, hospitals said. At least 118 were wounded, according to the Palestinian Red Crescent.
“A bag of flour covered in blood and death,” said Mohammed Issam, who was in the crowd and said some people were run over by trucks in the chaos. “How long will this humiliation continue?”
The Israeli military had no immediate comment on that strike. Israel blames the deaths of Palestinian civilians on Hamas, because the militants operate in densely populated areas.
Israel renewed its offensive in March with a surprise bombardment after ending an earlier ceasefire. Talks on another truce have dragged on for weeks despite pressure from US President Donald Trump.
Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people in the October 7 attack, and killed around 1,200 people. Fewer than half of the 50 hostages still in Gaza are believed to be alive.
More than 59,000 Palestinians have been killed during the war, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Its count doesn’t distinguish between militants and civilians, but the ministry says that more than half of the dead are women and children. The UN and other international organizations see it as the most reliable source of data on casualties.
Magdy reported from Cairo, and Goldenberg from Jerusalem. Associated Press writer Jamey Keaten in Geneva contributed to this report.
INJURED Palestinians are transferred to an ambulance after being wounded while waiting for aid arriving from the northern Gaza Strip, in Gaza City, Tuesday, July 22, 2025. AP/JEHAD ALSHRAFI
AFP journalists warn of imminent danger for Gaza reporters: ‘Without immediate intervention, the last reporters will die’
By David Bauder AP Media Writer
AGROUP of journalists at the Agence
France-Presse news agency is sounding the alarm about conditions faced by colleagues working in Gaza, saying that “without immediate intervention, the last reporters in Gaza will die.”
In a war-torn territory where Israel generally forbids outside journalists to enter, international news organizations like AFP, The Associated Press and Reuters rely on local teams to get out the news. They’ve been hampered by safety concerns and hunger in Gaza, where an estimated 59,000 people have died in the 21-month conflict, according to local health authorities.
The Society of Journalists at AFP, an association of professionals at the news agency, detailed what their Gaza colleagues are facing. AFP’s management said Tuesday that it shares concerns about the “appalling” situation and is working to evacuate its freelancers and their families.
“For months, we have watched helplessly as their living conditions deteriorated dramatically,” AFP said in a statement.
“Their situation is now untenable, despite their exemplary courage, professional commitment, and resilience.”
One of AFP’s photographers, identified as Bashar, sent a message on social media over the weekend that “I no longer have the strength to work for the media. My body is thin and can’t work anymore.”
Bashar has been working for AFP since 2010. Since February, he’s been living in the ruins of his home in Gaza City with his mother and other family members, and said one of his brothers had died of hunger, according to the journalists’ group.
The journalists receive a monthly salary from AFP, but exorbitant prices leave them unable to purchase much food.
Another AFP worker, Ahlam, said that every time she leaves her shelter to cover an event or do an interview, “I don’t know if I’ll come back alive.” Her biggest issue is the lack of food and water, she said.
Since AFP was founded in 1944, the Society of Journalists said that “we have lost journalists in conflicts, some have been injured, others taken prisoner. But none of us can ever remember seeing colleagues die of hunger.”
“We refuse to watch them die,” the society said.
AFP has been working with one freelance writer, three photographers, and six freelance videographers in Gaza since its staff journalists left in 2024. Representatives for the AP and Reuters also expressed concern for their teams there, but would not say how many people are working for them.
“We are deeply concerned about our staff in Gaza and are doing everything in our power to support them,” said Lauren Easton, a spokeswoman for The Associated Press. “We are very proud of the work our team continues to do under dire circumstances to keep the world informed about what is happening on the ground.”
Highest UN court to issue historic opinion on climate change obligations of countries
By Molly Quell The Associated Press
THE
HAGUE, Netherlands—The
UN’s highest court is handing down a historic opinion on climate change Wednesday, a decision that could set a legal benchmark for action around the globe to the climate crisis.
After years of lobbying by vulnerable island nations who fear they could disappear under rising sea waters, the UN General Assembly asked the International Court of Justice in 2023 for an advisory opinion, a non-binding but important basis for international obligations.
A panel of 15 judges was tasked with answering two questions. First, what are countries obliged to do under international law to protect the climate and environment from human-caused greenhouse gas emissions? Second, what are the legal consequences for governments when their acts, or lack of
action, have significantly harmed the climate and environment?
“The stakes could not be higher. The survival of my people and so many others is on the line,” Arnold Kiel Loughman, attorney general of the island nation of Vanuatu, told the court during a week of hearings in December.
In the decade up to 2023, sea levels have risen by a global average of around 4.3 centimeters (1.7 inches), with parts of the Pacific rising higher still. The world has also warmed 1.3 degrees Celsius (2.3 Fahrenheit) since preindustrial times because of the burning of fossil fuels.
Vanuatu is one of a group of small states pushing for international legal intervention in the climate crisis but it affects many more island nations in the South Pacific.
“The agreements being made at an international level between states are not moving fast enough,” Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu’s minister for climate change, told The Associated Press.
Any decision by The Haguebased court would be non-binding advice and unable to directly force wealthy nations into action to help struggling countries. Yet it would be more than just a
powerful symbol, since it could serve as the basis for other legal actions, including domestic lawsuits.
“What makes this case so important is that it addresses the past, present, and future of climate action. It’s not just about future targets—it also tackles historical responsibility, because we cannot solve the climate crisis without confronting its roots,” Joie Chowdhury, a senior attorney at the Center for International Environmental Law, told AP.
Activists could bring lawsuits against their own countries for
failing to comply with the decision and states could return to the International Court of Justice to hold each other to account. And whatever the judges say will be used as the basis for other legal instruments, like investment agreements, Chowdhury said.
The United States and Russia, both of whom are major petroleum-producing states, are staunchly opposed to the court mandating emissions reductions. Simply having the court issue an opinion is the latest in a series of legal victories for the small island nations. Earlier this month, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights found that countries have a legal duty not only to avoid environmental harm but also to protect and restore ecosystems. Last year, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that countries must better protect their people from the consequences of climate change. In 2019, the Netherlands’ Supreme court handed down the first major legal win for climate activists when judges ruled that protection from the potentially devastating effects of climate change was a human right and that the government has a duty to protect its citizens.
Trump hints at China visit to reset relations as trade tensions ease
By Didi Tang The Associated Press
ASHINGTON—Presi -
Wdent Donald Trump on Tuesday said a trip to China might be “not too distant,” raising prospects that the leaders of the world’s two largest economies may meet soon to help reset relations after moving to climb down from a trade war.
Trump made the remarks while hosting Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House, where he praised the “fantastic military relationship” with Manila as the US looks to counter China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
Yet, Trump still said the US is “getting along with China very well. We have a very good relationship.” He added that Beijing has resumed shipping to the US “record numbers” of much-needed rare earth magnets, which are used in iPhones and other high-tech products like electric vehicles.
Widely speculated about since Trump returned to the White House, a summit between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping would be expected to stabilize—
even for a short while—a difficult relationship defined by mistrust and competition.
Beijing believes a leader-level summit is necessary to steady USChina relations and that Trump must be wooed because he has the final say on America’s policy toward China, despite more hawkish voices in his Cabinet, observers say.
The question, however, is when.
Danny Russel, a distinguished fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute, said Trump has consistently shown his hunger for a visit to China and that Beijing has used that to bolster leverage.
“As soon as the leadership in Beijing is satisfied that Trump will be on his best behavior and will accept terms for a deal that they think are favorable, they will give a green light to the visit,” Russel said.
Sun Yun, director of the China program at the Washington-based think tank Stimson Center, said a visit “is in the making” with two sides likely to strike a trade deal.
What Trump said might mean the visit would not be in September but “potentially November, but still depends on whether they play
ball on trade and other things we want,” Sun said.
Trump’s campaign to impose tariffs on other countries kicked off a high-stake trade war with Beijing. China raised tariffs on US goods to 125% in response to Trump’s hiking the tax on Chinese goods to 145%.
Both sides also imposed on each other harsh trade restrictions on critical products: China on rare earths, and the US on computing chips and jet engine technology.
Trade tensions, however, eased following two rounds of high-level talks in Geneva and London, when the two sides agreed to lower tariffs—pending a more permanent deal by mid-August—and pull back on trade restrictions.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Tuesday on Fox Business’ “Mornings with Maria” that he will be meeting with his Chinese counterparts in Stockholm next week to work on “what is likely an extension” of the Aug. 12 deadline.
“I think trade is in a very good place with China,” Bessent told host Maria Bartiromo. “Hopefully, we can see the Chinese pull back on some of this glut of manufacturing that they’re doing and concentrate
Japan’s Ishiba denies reports he will resign, says he will focus on trade deal with the US
By Mari Yamaguchi The Associated Press
TOKYO—Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba denied reports he plans to announce his resignation over a historic defeat of his ruling party in a weekend election, saying instead he wanted to make sure a new tariff agreement with the United States is appropriately implemented.
on building a consumer economy.”
He said he also expects to bring up China’s purchases of Russian and Iranian oil and Beijing’s role in aiding Moscow in its war against Ukraine.
Beijing has not announced any travel plans for Vice Premier He Lifeng, who led trade negotiations in both Geneva and London on behalf of the Chinese government, but it is not unusual for China to make such announcements closer to a travel date.
In a possible friendly gesture, Beijing on Tuesday said it suspended an antitrust investigation into chemical maker DuPont’s operations in China. China’s State Administration for Market Regulation made the announcement in a one-line statement but gave no
explanation for the decision. DuPont said in a statement that it is “pleased” with China’s action. Chinese regulators launched the investigation in April against DuPont China Group, a subsidiary of the chemical giant, as part of Beijing’s broad, retaliatory response to Trump’s sky-high tariffs. Beijing also has agreed to approve export permits for rare earth elements and rare earth magnets that US manufacturers need to build cars, robots, wind turbines and other high-tech products. The US has eased restrictions on some advanced chips and other technologies.
The Associated Press writers Josh Boak and Fu Ting in Washington contributed to this report.
Ishiba had announced his intention Monday to stay on to tackle pressing challenges, including tariff talks with the US, without creating a political vacuum, sparking calls from inside and outside his own party for a quick resignation to respond to the election results.
With the tariff deal with the US paving the way for his possible departure, Japanese media said he is expected to soon announce plans to step down in August.
The Yomiuri newspaper, in an extra edition Wednesday, said Ishiba had decided to announce his resignation by the end of July after receiving a detailed report from his chief trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, paving the way for
Ishiba has been under growing pressure to step down as his ruling Liberal Democratic Party and its junior coalition partner, Komeito, lost their majority in the 248-member upper house, the smaller and less powerful of Japan’s two-chamber parliament on Sunday, shaking his grip on power and Japan’s political stability. The loss means Ishiba’s ruling coalition, which also lost a majority in the more powerful lower house in October, now lacks a majority in both houses of parliament, making it even more difficult for his government to achieve any policy goals and worsening Japan’s political instability.
a party leadership vote to choose his successor.
Ishiba denied the report and said he wants to focus on the US trade deal, which covers more than 4,000 goods affecting many Japanese producers and industries.
Ishiba, who met party heavyweights and former prime ministers Taro Aso, Fumio Kishida and Yoshihide Suga on Wednesday at party headquarters, told reporters afterwards that they did not discuss his resignation or a new party leadership contest. They only discussed the election results, shared the sense of crisis and confirmed the need to avoid party discord, he said.
Ishiba welcomed the trade agreement Wednesday, which places a 15% tax on Japanese cars and other goods imported into the US from Japan, down from the initial 25%, saying it was a product of tough
negotiations to protect the national interest and that it would help benefit both sides as they work together to create more jobs and investment.
But Ishiba declined to comment on his possible move and only told reporters that he has to closely examine the trade deal first.
In Sunday’s election, voters frustrated with price increases exceeding the pace of wage hikes, especially younger people who have long felt ignored by the ruling government’s focus on senior voters, rapidly turned to emerging conservative and rightwing populist parties, like the Democratic Party for the People and Sanseito.
None of the opposition parties have shown interest in forming a full-fledged alliance with the governing coalition but they have said they are open to cooperating on policy.
WHAT remains of the “Tree of Life” on Sunday, July 20, 2025, is visible off the coast of
Efate Island, Vanuatu, after being toppled by cyclones in 2023 and further damaged by an earthquake in 2024. AP/ANNIKA HAMMERSCHLAG
House Speaker Mike Johnson sidesteps Epstein investigation, sends members home for recess
By Stephen Groves & Lisa Mascaro The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—House
Speaker Mike Johnson is rebuffing pressure to act on the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, instead sending members home early for a month-long break from Washington after the week’s legislative agenda was upended by Republican members who are clamoring for a vote.
Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, said Tuesday morning that he wants to give the White House “space” to release the Epstein information on its own, despite the bipartisan push for legislation that aims to force the release of more documents.
“There’s no purpose for the Congress to push an administration to do something they’re already doing,” Johnson said at his weekly news conference, his last before lawmakers depart Washington on Wednesday for their traditional August recess.
The speaker’s stance did little to alleviate the intra-party turmoil unfolding on Capitol Hill as many of President Donald Trump’s supporters demand that the administration meet its promises to publicly release a full accounting of the sex trafficking investigation into Epstein, who killed himself in his New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial. Under
pressure from right-wing online influencers, as well as voters back home, rank-and-file Republicans are demanding that the House intervene in the matter.
“The public’s not going to let this die, and rightfully so,” said Rep. Ralph Norman, a South Carolina Republican.
Will Ghislaine Maxwell’s deposition happen?
EVEN before Johnson spoke Tuesday morning, the powerful House Committee on Oversight was advancing a resolution to subpoena Epstein’s former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, for a deposition.
The Republican chair of the committee, Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, said there will be a negotiation with Maxwell’s attorney over the terms of the deposition and that it could happen at the prison where she is serving a lengthy sentence for helping Epstein sexually abuse underage
girls. The Justice Department also indicated Tuesday it was separately seeking to interview Maxwell.
While Democrats on the House Oversight Committee supported the action, the top Democrat on the committee, Rep. Robert Garcia of California, warned that her testimony should be treated with skepticism.
“We should be looking and continue to push for a full release of the files,” Garcia told reporters. “I think it’s important for people to know that she obviously is a documented liar and someone that has caused enormous harm to young girls and women.”
Trump didn’t address the issue during a reception for House Republicans at the White House on Tuesday night but heaped praise on Johnson, saying he would “go down as one of the great speakers at any time in history.” In remarks alongside Trump, Johnson made no mention of it either.
Speaker Johnson’s control of the House is under threat Johnson decided to end the House’s legislative business early this week after he essentially lost control of the powerful House Rules Committee, which sends bills to the floor for debates and votes. Late Monday evening, business on that panel ground to a halt when the Republicans on the committee abruptly recessed proceedings rather than risk more proposals from Democrats pushing them to release Epstein files.
Republicans had teed up votes on legislation to increase penalties for migrants who enter the country illegally, to ease permitting for water infrastructure and to roll back several Biden-era regulations. All
those bills were put on hold, at least until after the August recess.
Frustration in the House has been running high since last week, when Republican leaders signaled possible support for a vote on the Epstein files as they raced to pass a $9 billion package of spending cuts. Johnson unveiled a resolution that has no legal weight but would urge the Justice Department to produce more documentation. Trump, meanwhile, has asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to seek the release of testimony from secret grand jury proceedings in the case, though that effort is unlikely to produce new revelations.
Echoing Trump’s position, Johnson insisted he, too, wants the files released, but only those that are “credible.” Johnson, who has relied heavily on Trump to hold onto leadership in the House, cast the president’s reticence to release information as out of concern for the victims of Epstein.
“We have a moral responsibility to expose the evil of Epstein
and everybody who was involved in that—absolutely—and we’re resolved to do it,” Johnson said.
“But we also have an equal moral responsibility to protect the innocent, and that is a fine needle to thread.”
In the Senate, Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., also told reporters he believed Trump and Bondi would “make the right decisions” on the files, but opened the door to committees examining the matter.
Epstein has become a political wedge among GOP EVEN with the month-long break, the pressure on Johnson is unlikely to end. Rep. Thomas Massie, a Republican whose contrarian stances are often a thorn in the side of leadership, is gathering support for a legislative maneuver to force the bipartisan bill to a House vote, even without leadership’s consent.
“Now, there are a lot of people here in the swamp who think that,
‘Oh, well, if we spend five weeks on vacation, the pressure for this will dissipate. I don’t think it’s going to dissipate.’” Massie told reporters Monday evening.
Democrats have watched it all unfold with glee and worked to inflame the conflict among Republicans by making their own calls for transparency on the Epstein investigation. They have repeatedly tried to force votes on the matter, casting it as an issue of trust in the government.
“It’s about transparency in government. It’s about whose side are you on? Are you on the side of the rich and powerful, protecting men? Or are you on the side of young girls and America’s children?” said Rep. Ro Khanna, the California Democrat who put forward the legislation alongside Massie.
Epstein sexually abused children hundreds of times over more than a decade, exploiting vulnerable girls as young as 14, authorities say. He couldn’t have done so without the help of Maxwell, his longtime companion, prosecutors contend.
Massie said the case is palpable enough to carry significant political consequences.
“This will be an issue that does follow Republicans through the midterms, and it will follow each individual Republican through the midterms. It will follow people into their primaries. Did you support transparency and justice, or did you come up here, get elected and fall into the swamp?” he told reporters.
He added, “I think it is a watershed moment for the speaker of the House and the president.”
Trump rehashes old grievances on Russia investigation after new intelligence report
By Eric Tucker & Chris Megerian
The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—Presi -
dent Donald Trump
rehashed longstanding grievances over the Russia investigation that shadowed much of his first term, lashing out Tuesday following a new report from his intelligence director aimed at casting doubt on long-established findings about Moscow’s interference in the 2016 election.
“It’s time to go after people,” Trump said from the Oval Office as he repeated a baseless claim that former President Barack Obama and other officials had engaged in treason.
Trump was not making his claims for the first time, but he delivered them when administration officials are harnessing the machinery of the federal government to investigate the targets of Trump’s derision, including key officials responsible for scrutinizing Russia’s attempts to intervene on Trump’s behalf in 2016.
The backward-looking inquiries are taking place even as the Republican administration’s national security agencies are confronting global threats. But they have served as a rallying cry for Trump, who is trying to unify a political base at odds over the Jeffrey Epstein case, with some allies pressing to disclose more information despite the president’s push
to turn the page.
Trump’s attack prompted a rare response from Obama’s post-presidential office.
“Our office does not normally dignify the constant nonsense and misinformation flowing out of this White House with a response,” said Patrick Rodenbush, an Obama spokesman. “But these claims are outrageous enough to merit one. These bizarre allegations are ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction.”
Gabbard’s new report on the Russia investigation TRUMP’S tirade, a detour from his official business as he hosted the leader of the Philippines, unfolded against the backdrop of a new report from Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard that represented his administration’s latest attempt to rewrite the history of the Russia investigation, which has infuriated him for years.
The report, released Friday, downplayed the extent of Russian interference in the 2016 election by highlighting Obama administration e-mails showing officials had concluded before and after the presidential race that Moscow had not hacked state election systems to manipulate votes in Trump’s favor.
But Obama’s Democratic administration never suggested otherwise, even as it exposed other means by which Russia interfered in the election, including through a massive hack-and-leak operation of Democratic emails by intelligence operatives working with WikiLeaks, as well as a
covert influence campaign aimed at swaying public opinion and sowing discord through fake social media posts.
Gabbard’s report appears to suggest the absence of manipulation of state election systems is a basis to call into question more general Russian interference. By issuing it, she appeared to recover her standing in Trump’s orbit, which just one month ago had seemed uncertain after Trump said she was “wrong” when she previously said she believed Iran wasn’t building a nuclear weapon.
“She’s the hottest one in the room right now,” Trump said Tuesday night. “Tulsi, great job—and I know you have a lot more coming.” Democrats, for their part, swiftly decried the report as factually flawed and politically motivated.
“It is sadly not surprising that DNI Gabbard, who promised to depoliticize the intelligence community, is once again weaponizing her position to amplify the president’s election conspiracy theories,” Sen. Mark Warner, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, wrote on X.
Several investigations found Russian interference in 2016 RUSSIA’S broad interference in 2016 has been established through a series of investigations, including special counsel Robert Mueller’s report, which concluded that the Trump campaign welcomed the Kremlin’s help but also found insufficient evidence to establish a criminal conspiracy.
A House Intelligence Committee report also documented Russia’s
meddling, as did the Senate Intelligence Committee, which concluded its work in 2020 at a time when the panel was led by Republican Sen. Marco Rubio, who’s now Trump’s secretary of state.
A different special counsel appointed by the Trump Justice Department to hunt for problems in the origins of the Russia investigation, John Durham, did find flaws, but not related to what Gabbard sought to highlight in her report.
“Few episodes in our nation’s history have been investigated as thoroughly as the Intelligence Community’s warning in 2016 that Russia was interfering in the election,” said Rep. Jim Himes, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee.
He added that every legitimate investigation, including the bipartisan Senate Intelligence Committee probe, “found no evidence of politicization and endorsed the findings” of an intelligence committee assessment on Russian interference made public in 2017.
Gabbard’s document was released weeks after a CIA report that reexamined that earlier intelligence community assessment. That new review, ordered by CIA Director John Ratcliffe, did not dispute Russia had interfered but suggested officials were rushed in the assessment they reached. Trump administration is seeking investigations of former officials
RATCLIFFE has since referred former CIA Director John Brennan to the Justice Department for investigation, a person familiar with the
matter has said. The department earlier this month appeared to acknowledge an open investigation into Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey in an unusual statement, but the status and contours of the inquiries are unclear.
Besides Obama, Trump on Tuesday rattled off a list of people he accused of acting criminally “at the highest level,” including Comey, his 2016 Democratic opponent Hillary Clinton and former national intelligence director James Clapper. He accused Obama, without evidence, of being the “ringleader” of a conspiracy to get him. Obama has never been accused of any wrongdoing as part of the Russia investigation, and, in any event, a landmark Supreme Court opinion from last year shields former presidents from prosecution for official acts conducted in office.
Trump launched his tirade when asked about the Justice Department’s effort to speak with Ghislaine Maxwell, the former girlfriend of Epstein, who was convicted of helping the financier sexually abuse underage girls.
“I don’t really follow that too much,” he said. “It’s sort of a witch hunt, a continuation of the witch hunt.”
Trump is under pressure from conspiracy-minded segments of his political base to release more about the Epstein case. Democrats say Trump is resisting because of his past association with Epstein. Trump has denied knowledge of or involvement with Epstein’s crimes and said he ended their friendship years ago.
REP. James Comer, R-Ky., arrives before President Donald Trump speaks at a reception for Republican members of Congress in the East Room of the White House, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Washington. AP/JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON
Garbage. . .
Continued from A5
Artes also cited Metro Manila’s outdated drainage system as part of the problem.
“Our drainage system is antiquated, with more than 50 years of service. To address these issues, we need a drainage master plan for Metro Manila that involves upgrading and expanding the existing drainage network, constructing new pumping stations, among others,” he said.
The MMDA chief stressed that discipline remains an integral part in addressing flooding problems in Metro Manila, urging the public to segregate their waste properly.
Personnel from MMDA Flood Control and Sewerage Management Office (FCSMO), for their part, regularly conduct decloging and dredging operations of drainages and waterways in major thoroughfares in Metro Manila. The program is one of the mitigating measures of the agency even before the onset of the rainy season.
Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
Economists. . .
Continued from A1
“Without strong safeguards, local producers—especially in agriculture and manufacturing—could be overwhelmed by cheaper imports, threatening domestic industries and increasing dependency,” he added.
Former Tariff Commissioner George Manzano, however, told B usiness M irror that “all economies are worse off because of the reciprocal tariff but some economies are worse off more than others.”
Manzano said it is important to also remember that some of the country’s neighbors gave up tariffs in exchange for significantly lower tariffs. This, in a sense, made them “buy” the reduction in their tariff.
He said Vietnam was able to reduce its tariffs to 20 percent from around 46 percent while Indonesia reduced its tariff to 19 percent from 30 percent. But on a percentage-point basis, Manzano said the Philippines may have been better off not renegotiating its tariff with the United States.
“We were able to cut ours from 20 to 19, so relatively speaking, we are giving more per percentage reduction than Vietnam. It seems the reduction from 20 to 19 was costlier for us. If we had not negotiated, we’d still have 20, but we wouldn’t have had to give anything away. [We would have been] even better off than 19 with so many things in exchange,” Manzano said, partly in Filipino, in a phone interview on Wednesday.
Manzano also said the imposition of zero tariff may depend on which commodities receive this level of tariff. If automobiles will see zero tariffs, he said, this will benefit car companies like Ford while local assemblers in the country may be forced to face stiffer competition.
In the case of an increase in the import of commodities like soybean, its substitutes may be placed at a disadvantage. However,
Arsi.
Continued from A1
These kinds of efforts may be frowned upon under a multilateral trade regime and treated as “subsidies” but, Balisacan noted, it’s a “very different world already.”
Gone were the days, he added, when individual countries could run to the World Trade Organization (WTO) to air their grievances.
Given the current trade landscape, Balisacan said countries are now more focused on getting the best deals through regional and bilateral trade agreements.
While countries can still rely on the WTO for some support in terms of pushing free and fair trade forward, Balisacan said countries would rather protect their own interests these days.
“The WTO works if all the countries, particularly the major ones, cooperate and play the game. But if the big players are not playing the game fairly, then it does not make sense for a small country to still keep playing the game. [You] have to protect your own interests,” Balisacan said.
“If the WTO has been so much weakened,
US Department of State extends ₧3B foreign assistance to back energy, maritime, econ growth programs in PHL
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
THE United States Department of State announced at least P3 billion in foreign assistance funding to support energy, maritime, and economic growth programs in the Philippines.
In a statement on Wednesday, the US Embassy in the Philippines said this is the US government’s first announcement of new foreign assistance for any country since the Trump Administration began its review and realignment of foreign assistance in January. This was divulged after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio
he said, if wheat from the United States will receive lower tariffs, Filipinos could see bread prices decline.
Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University
economist Leonardo Lanzona Jr. told this newspaper that this could also make the country’s top export, Electronic Products, at a disadvantage.
Electronic products, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), accounted for $3.85 billion or 52.8 percent of the country’s export earnings in May 2025.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation
Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort also noted in his latest brief that Electronic Products is the top export of the Philippines to the US, accounting for 52.9 percent of export earnings from America in 2024.
“We buy electronic inputs from the US, which we process with our labor and export back to them as semiconductors. While we import these goods at greater volume, we end up losing our market because of their tariffs imposed on us,” Lanzona told B usiness M irror
Former Socioeconomic Planning
Secretary Dante B. Canlas told this newspaper this is already a violation of the Most Favored Nation (MFN) or the World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.
Canlas said identifying the winners and losers under this arrangement will require combing through tariff lines.
Nonetheless, Senior Adviser Jonathan Ravelas of Reyes Tacandong & Co. told B usiness M irror that offhand, electronics, garments, and agricultural exports could be the most vulnerable.
Asuncion agreed and said with the zero tariffs for American goods, the Philippine manufacturing sector is also at risk from cheaper US imports.
For those who will be disadvantaged by the trade deal, Ravelas said the government must provide export tax relief; market diversification support; and trade adjustment assistance for displaced workers.
“Industries that compete with these
we need to strengthen our ability to make deals regionally, bilaterally, with countries as your second best option. Your first best is still the global arrangement, but if that’s not available anymore, you have to look for other [options],” he also said. Balisacan said this is why he earlier recommended that the Philippines pursue more regional and bilateral trade agreements, particularly with nontraditional trade partners.
Regional integration
MEANWHILE Asean+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (Amro) Chief Economist Dong He stressed that in light of recent events, there is an urgent need for regional integration. He noted that the ongoing geopolitical tensions add a layer of complexity to the Trump administration’s decision to impose higher tariffs worldwide. Apart from this, he said the sharperthan-expected economic slowdown in the US and Europe, and “tighter global financial conditions from prolonged high US interest rates could further dampen growth prospects” of Asean+3 economies.
“In a world that is increasingly being reshaped by fragmentation, deeper regional
met with Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on July 21 in Washington, D.C.
As part of this at least P3billion initiative, Rubio also announced that the U.S. Department of State intends to work with the U.S. Congress to allocate P825 million ($15 million) to “catalyze” private sector development in the Luzon Economic Corridor.
If approved, this funding will support investments in the areas of transport, logistics, energy, and semiconductors that will help create jobs and drive economic growth in the country.
The US Embassy in the Philippines underscored that Mar -
American goods will be at a loss. Industrial machinery, manufacturing equipment, and transportation equipment will now become cheaper to import, and even labor can now be displaced,” Lanzona said.
“The tariffs, however, could be beneficial for retail, logistics, and import-reliant sectors such as food and other consumer goods,” Ravela said.
Asuncion said, nonetheless, that electronic exporters could also benefit as a significant portion of their products are also imported.
“The BPO and tech sectors may gain from stronger US ties, while defenserelated industries could see increased investment and collaboration. These gains, though modest now, could grow with strategic follow-through,” Asuncion told this newspaper.
Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev) said the trade deal the President struck with the US cannot be viewed individually.
Balisacan noted that despite the reduction of only one percentage point from the initial 20 percent tariff announced by the White House, he believed this is still a win for Malacañang.
“It’s still a very good outcome. But I think that the way to look at it is really to look at it as a bigger picture. That things can be actually given the way the US decides on the tariff even with their best partners, whether it’s Mexico or Canada. If the deficit is high, we will lose. That’s how it is,” Balisacan told reporters on Wednesday.
As for the zero tariff on US goods, Balisacan said, “standard economics” suggest that a country should be able to accept a higher deficit from another where they could import goods at a lower cost.
There are countries, Balisacan said, where there would be trade deficits because these countries have a comparative advantage in the supply or production of certain goods.
This can be carefully examined by the Philippines in determining its next course of
integration is both urgent and necessary,” He said.
“By strengthening regional cooperation while maintaining openness to the world and standing firm on rules-based multilateralism, Asean+3 can build resilience against external shocks and create new growth opportunities,” he added.
In May, Balisacan told reporters that undertaking more FTAs, in general, can expand the reach of the country’s products and maximize the benefits of free trade to boost the growth of local industries that will lead to faster economic growth.
In light of this, Balisacan said the Philippines should also do its homework to better coordinate its trade negotiation efforts. He and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo recently discussed the need to revise the country’s negotiation strategy. He said the country’s negotiation strategy has long been sectoral and this may be preventing the country from maximizing the benefits of its trade agreements.
cos’ meetings with US President Donald Trump, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth in Washington, D.C. this week “reaffirmed the United States’ ironclad commitment to the US-Philippines Alliance and advanced closer economic ties between the two nations.”
A few days after this meeting, particularly in the morning of July 23 in the Philippines, US President Donald Trump posted on social media that a 19 percent tariff will be imposed on Philippine goods with the condition the Southeast Asian country will be an “open market” for US goods. This means that President Fer -
action of where it can export its goods and retain its comparative advantage.
“If you have a comparative advantage with a country like Korea in terms of your exports, of course you will bring your exports there and not export it to the US where you command lower value for your exports. That’s how you maximize the benefits of the opportunities available in trade,” Balisacan told reporters.
Meanwhile, Lanzona said that given the significant impact the changes on tariffs entail, he doubts whether any industry will benefit from the country’s latest trade deal with the US.
dinand R. Marcos Jr.’s tariff negotiations with Trump resulted in only a 1 percentage point reduction from the previously announced 20 percent duties that would be slapped on the Philippines.
In exchange for the minimal reduction, which was still higher than the 17 percent initial tariff imposed by Trump last April, the Philippines has agreed to remove its tariffs on cars and other certain goods from the US and to buy more American products.
Marcos confirmed the agreed upon 19 percent tariff but he clarified that the zero tariff regime will only apply to some sectors such as cars.
“We will open that [automo -
“No industry will benefit because the US would insist that we are taking advantage of them if any industry were to experience any trade surplus,” He said. “No negotiation will be favorable for us since the US position is based on this ridiculous assumption that they have a comparative advantage in everything.”
On Wednesday, President Ferdinand Marcos’ “tough” tariff negotiations with US President Trump resulted in only a 1 percentage point reduction on the 20-percent duties on Philippines goods, which take effect August 1.
bile] market and no longer charge tariffs on that,” he said in a press briefing with reporters in Washington. He also said the Philippines has agreed to increase its imports of US goods including soy products, wheat products, and medicine. In a joint press conference at the White House last Tuesday (US time), Trump described Marcos as a “tough negotiator” when they were finalizing the “big trade deal” which will help boost income for both countries.
In exchange for the minimal reduction— still higher than the 17-percent initial tariff imposed by Trump last April—the Philippines has agreed to remove its tariffs on cars and other certain goods from the US and to buy more American products. After meeting Marcos on Tuesday (US time), Trump posted on social media that a 19-percent tariff will be imposed on Philippine goods with the condition the Southeast Asian country will be an “open market” for US goods. (See: https:// businessmirror.com.ph/2025/07/23/ marcos-1-percent-reduction-on-tariffsimposed-by-us-significant-in-realterms/)
Agricultural smuggling: Severe threat to farmers and our food security
SENATOR Francis N. Pangilinan’s recent remarks on agricultural smuggling resonate deeply with the ongoing struggles faced by our farmers. As he aptly stated, “a single sack of smuggled rice is a direct blow to a Filipino farmer.” This statement encapsulates the broader implications of smuggling—not just as an economic issue, but as a moral betrayal of those who toil to feed the nation. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Customs reform will help stop agri smuggling—lawmaker,” July 21, 2025).
The statistics surrounding agricultural smuggling in the country are alarming. Smuggled goods not only deprive farmers of their hardearned income but also jeopardize our food security. As Pangilinan pointed out, every shipment that evades scrutiny is not merely an act of theft; it represents a stolen future for farmers and consumers alike. The need for a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to combat this crisis has never been more urgent.
Pangilinan’s call for four key recommendations is a step in the right direction. Expanding the mandate of the Inter-Agency Task Force to combat smuggling, empowering farmers to report illicit activities without fear, expediting legal actions against corrupt Customs officials, and institutionalizing the Sagip Saka Act are crucial measures that must be urgently implemented. These initiatives not only aim to enhance enforcement but also strive to restore dignity and support to the farming community.
The recent disposal of over 500 metric tons of smuggled vegetables illustrates the dire consequences of this ongoing crisis. While the Department of Agriculture (DA) acted to protect public health by destroying deteriorating produce, it raises questions about the systems in place to prevent such incidents from occurring in the first place. Misdeclaring goods to bypass regulations is a tactic that undermines both food safety and local farmers’ livelihoods. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “DA orders destruction of smuggled vegetables,” July 21, 2025).
The DA’s commitment to penalizing those responsible is commendable, yet it must be part of a larger, more comprehensive strategy to dismantle smuggling networks altogether.
Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno’s reform efforts are commendable, but a piecemeal approach is insufficient. What is needed is a whole-of-government strategy, led by stronger enforcement and real accountability. Smuggling is a betrayal of our farmers, our fisherfolk, and our future, and those responsible must be held accountable.
Food security is inextricably linked to national security. As Pangilinan correctly asserts, neglecting this issue leaves farmers vulnerable and the populace at risk. It would do well for the government to prioritize the interest of our farmers, ensuring that local production is fortified against the onslaught of smuggled goods. This is not merely about enforcement; it is about fostering a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that values and protects its producers.
As citizens, we must advocate for these reforms and hold our leaders accountable. The fight against agricultural smuggling is not just a political issue; it is a moral imperative that affects every Filipino. By standing up for our farmers, we defend the very hands that feed us and secure a healthier future for our nation.
BusinessMirror
‘Tiny icons; speaking a global language’
OJohn Mangun
OUTSIDE THE BOX
N the surface, emojis seem laughably trivial—cartoon faces and tiny icons cluttering our phones. Yet behind their colorful simplicity lies a fascinating story of 21st-century global culture. These digital hieroglyphs have transcended borders, languages, and generations to become a universal shorthand. In Tokyo, a teardrop face softens blunt text. In New York, the eggplant symbol carries meanings its creators never imagined. In Manila, hearts and laughing-crying faces dominate family group chats—proof that sometimes a small picture can say what words cannot.
Emojis are now the emotional currency of the digital age. What began in the late 1990s as a handful of smiley faces now drives billions of daily exchanges worldwide. In the Philippines—arguably the texting capital of the planet—emojis are embedded in every Facebook Messenger and Viber chat, from workplace threads to college barkada groups. The heart, the laughingcrying face, and the loudly crying face are staples. These icons supposedly “add emotion” to cold text. But are we amplifying expression, or simply packaging it for speed? In a culture that coined words like kilig and gigil—emotions that defy easy translation—you would think
we could survive without cartoon tears. Apparently not. Globally, the emoji factory is running out of steam. Unicode, the organization that standardizes these pictograms, keeps releasing updates, but inspiration is wearing thin. The emoji roster now nears four thousand, yet recent additions like beetroot, shovel, and the flag of Sark suggest we are scraping the barrel. For 2026, proposals include an orca, a ballet dancer, and a landslide. Meanwhile, emojis that resonate with Southeast Asia remain missing. A jeepney? Halo-halo? Even buko juice? Silence. Instead, another obscure flag and a mythical yeti.
Emojis are also far from universal
in meaning. In Japan, the “bowing person” symbol conveys deep apology, but in Western countries it is often misread as “thinking.” The folded hands icon is seen as prayer in the West but means “thank you” in parts of Asia. In China, the peach symbol carries fewer risqué connotations than in the United States, where it has become shorthand for body parts. Italians overuse the “pinched fingers” gesture to punctuate nearly every message, while Filipinos laugh at the rooster icon for reasons outsiders rarely understand. Culture transforms even the simplest pictograms.
Emojis are no longer decorative—they shape how people communicate. Nearly 90 percent of Gen Z consider them essential for conveying tone online. In the Philippines, where a thumbs-up can mean “OK,” “noted,” or “I am annoyed but too polite to say so,” misreading an emoji in a Tita’s Viber message can spark more drama than a teleserye.
The sheer volume has also become part of the problem. In 2025, only eight truly new emojis were added—a record low. Most updates are now variants: alternate skin tones, gender pairings, and flag permutations. Diversity is admirable, but novelty is rare. Unicode seems caught between cultural tokenism and creative paralysis. Users, meanwhile, scroll through endless rows of near-identical symbols searching
for something that feels new. Yet Filipinos continue to embrace emojis with near-religious fervor. They soften awkward workplace emails, dress up financial reminders, and punctuate casual apologies. The irony? In a hyper-visual culture alive with vibrant jeepneys, fiesta streamers, and busy karinderias, our digital expressions are still dominated by icons conceived in Western boardrooms. We are global emoji consumers, not contributors. Imagine a world where Unicode prioritized cultural balance: an adobo emoji, a tricycle, a sari-sari store. Instead, we recycle the same yellow faces and Western foods while our rich imagery stays unrepresented. We already have a mango and a coconut but still no jeepney, no rambutan, not even a lechon. Instead, we scroll past yet another obscure flag and an unasked-for mythical yeti. So Filipinos—and the rest of the world—keep filling chats with hearts and smileys, waiting for the day their own symbols finally make the cut. Perhaps that is the true irony: in a digital age where a single icon can spark a billion conversations, we are still speaking in a visual language that is not fully ours.
E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.
Japanese stocks rally, bonds slump on 15% tariff deal with US
By Alice French & Mia Glass
T. Anthony C. Cabangon
Lourdes M. Fernandez
Jennifer A. Ng Vittorio V. Vitug
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Eduardo A. Davad Nonilon G. Reyes
D. Edgard A. Cabangon Benjamin V. Ramos Aldwin Maralit Tolosa Rolando M. Manangan
BusinessMirror is published daily by the Philippine Business Daily Mirror Publishing, Inc., with offices on the 3rd floor of Dominga Building III 2113 Chino Roces Avenue corner De La Rosa Street, Makati City, Philippines. Tel. Nos. (Editorial) 817-9467; 813-0725. Fax line: 813-7025. (Advertising Sales) 893-2019; 817-1351, 817-2807. (Circulation) 893-1662; 814-0134 to 36. E-mail: news.businessmirror@gmail.com www.businessmirror.com.ph
JAPANESE
stocks surged higher, led by carmakers, while government bonds tumbled after the US President Donald Trump announced a deal to set tariffs on imports from the Asian nation at 15 percent.
The benchmark Topix and Nikkei 225 share gauges both rallied more than 3 percent Wednesday, with gains accelerating first on news that auto-tariffs would also be 15 percent, and then on reports that Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba plans to resign.
Yields on shorter-maturity bonds climbed in concert with renewed expectations for the central bank to hike interest rates by the end of the year. Longer-dated debt saw yields advance amid worries that government spending will rise. An auction of 40-year bonds that drew the weakest demand in more than decade underscored the concern over spending. The advance in the Topix has brought it to within 1 percentage point of its record high set in July last year. The rally Wednesday in Japan stands in contrast to a decline in stocks in South Korea, which is yet
to strike a trade deal with the Trump administration.
Moves in the yen, which has advanced this week, were more subdued. It swung within a narrow band and was down about 0.2 percent at 146.87 versus the dollar at 12:54 p.m. in Tokyo.
“After weeks of uncertainty, business and financial investors will finally have more clarity,” said Rajeev de Mello, portfolio manager at GAMA Asset Management. The 15% tariff level is lower than the 25% previously feared and so will be positive for market sentiment, he added. Overnight index swaps are now pricing in about an 84% chance of a BOJ rate hike by the end of the year, compared with about 59% a day earlier. Yields on 10-year bonds rose 9.5 basis points to 1.595%, putting them within a whisker of the highest level since 2008.
The advance in the Topix has brought it to within 1 percentage point of its record high set in July last year. The rally Wednesday in Japan stands in contrast to a decline in stocks in South Korea, which is yet to strike a trade deal with the Trump administration.
Japan’s 40-year government bond auction saw its weakest demand since 2011. Yields have traded recently at multi-year highs at a time when the BOJ has been gradually paring back its massive bond purchases.
“The announcement of the USJapan trade deal will be a factor for higher yields as it will make it easier for the Bank of Japan to raise rates,” said Katsutoshi Inadome, a senior strategist at Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Asset Management. Many investors were bracing for tariffs of at least 20 percent, so the new level is “a better-than-expected outcome, which is being reflected in the auto moves higher,” said Andrew Jackson, Japan equity strategist at Ortus Advisors. Japan’s auto sector “was getting
quite heavily shorted” on tariff worries, so Wednesday’s news is a significant tailwind, Jackson added. Shares of Mazda Motor Corp, which generates around 50 percent of its revenue in North America, surged as much as 18 percent. Toyota Motor Corp. jumped more than 15 percent. Trump’s deal, along with expectations for a change in domestic leadership, bring some much needed optimism to Japanese stocks, which have been jittery over worries about fiscal policy after Ishiba lost his majority in the upper house in Sunday’s election.
“Markets would prefer Ishiba to leave and for someone else to come in,” said Gerard Cawley, a Japan equities fund manager at Polar Capital in London. “At least then investors would know what the playing field looks like,” he added. But some observers cautioned that the boost to sentiment could be short-lived.
“Now that a deal has been reached, I’d expect markets to shift their attention back to Japan’s fiscal outlook, with risks skewed to further JGB and yen weakness,” said Carol Kong, a See “Japanese” A11
Turkey’s hunt for energy and influence sparks global deal drive
By Patrick Sykes & Anna Shiryaevskaya
FROM US natural gas to Southeast Asian oil and and uranium in Sub-Saharan Africa, Turkey is on a global hunt for energy and commodities, leveraging its growing foreign policy clout for an edge in the competition for resources.
Ankara’s push is going full speed this year, with exploration deals signed on three continents—the latest just last week in Oman—and specialist ships secured to back them. Meanwhile, state gas company Botas is preparing for a new role as an international trader.
The aim is to secure access to crucial commodities to power the energy-hungry $1.4 trillion economy at a time of uncertainty about supply chains. That would mimic what China has done—on a much larger scale—since the 1990s through its own state firms’ international expansion. For President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, it’s also a way to boost Turkey’s influence and build economic relationships.
According to Ahmet Turkoglu, the head of state upstream company Turkiye Petrolleri AO, which already produces some oil in Russia, Azerbaijan and Iraq as well as within Turkey, these are must-do projects.
“Geopolitical realities, such as security of supply and technology, are now imperatives, not options,” he said in a speech last month.
But the idea is wildly ambitious in parts, putting civil servants in charge of the type of exploration projects normally the preserve of giant energy conglomerates or smaller specialist businesses. That means the investment and spending comes with an element of risk for public money.
“For a national oil company to be an frontier exploration company is a very high-risk venture with public funds,” said Valerie Marcel, executive director of New Producers for Sustainable Energy, a network of energy-producing governments. “It’s an area where there’s potential to make a lot of extra money, but also the potential to lose money.”
Sales pitch TURKEY isn’t the only nation chasing commodities. Europe, for example, has unleashed a major push for liquefied natural gas as it weans itself off Russia.
As Ankara makes its pitch to foreign governments, it points to its deepwater Black Sea gas project as proof that it can deliver complicated projects at scale. There’s its location – between Europe and Asia—and relative lack of colonial baggage compared with western counterparts. It’s also expanding its fleet of specialized vessels. TPAO recently bought two drillships from Norway’s Eldorado Drilling for around $245 million each.
This year, Energy Ministrycontrolled companies have signed upstream agreements with Oman, Libya, Pakistan, Azerbaijan and Hungary—all countries with which Ankara has strengthened ties in recent years.
In mining, they’re studying gold deposits in Sudan, where Turkey has backed the government in a civil war. Officials have also said they’re discussing deals in Angola, Malaysia, Indonesia, Niger, Turkmenistan, Iraq and Bulgaria.
The talks with Niger, one of the world’s top uranium producers, show how Turkey has taken advantage of the country’s 2023 coup and the jun-
Japanese . . . continued from A10
strategist at Commonwealth Bank of Australia in Sydney. The terms of Trump’s Japan deal could also cloud the outlook for Japanese assets longer term. The truce will see Japan invest $550 billion into the US, according to the president.
Rentier capitalism widening inequality
Pta’s push to squeeze out longstanding French producer Orano SA.
Growing influence CONTROLLING key natural resources abroad will boost Turkey’s influence in those countries, creating opportunities for cooperation in other fields, such as trade and defense.
The playbook is a version of what China’s big national oil companies started doing three decades ago, first getting a foothold in developing countries. Since then, their reach has multiplied and firms have expanded their trading desks abroad, increasing their role in energy markets.
“Turkey pursues its energy diplomacy in conjunction with a larger political objective: to reinforce the country’s status as a regional power,” said Defne Arslan, senior director of the Atlantic Council in Turkey.
Energy trading BOTAS, Turkey’s national gas company, is also becoming more international as it transforms from an importer passively receiving supply into a global trader that can also buy and sell for profit.
It’s signed LNG import contracts that give it control over shipping for the first time, and is in talks for additional flexible volumes particularly from the US, according to people with knowledge of the matter, who declined to be identified discussing internal business.
The company plans to set up an office in Switzerland this year, according to one person, a move that would give it a presence alongside the world’s biggest commodity traders.
Botas, TPAO and the Energy Ministry didn’t respond to requests for comment.
Fast-growing US LNG supply and global demand mean lucrative trading opportunities. Traditional buyers from China to Japan often act as traders, seizing opportunistic deals to resell their LNG to Europe.
Access to global LNG would diversify Turkey’s sources beyond current main suppliers Russia, Azerbaijan and Iran, while also potentially elevating the nation to the ranks of suppliers, increasing its influence in the global energy arena.
In exploration, the most advanced new foreign project so far is Somalia, where a TPAO research ship has just finished a seven-month search for hydrocarbons. If the results—yet to be announced—are good, Turkey will have exclusive rights over production, adding a lucrative natural resource to its portfolio in the country.
But given the riskiness of some of the ventures, there are also questions about the costs. The government hasn’t said how the firms’ international expansion will be funded.
“Whether it’s the Black Sea or Somalia, public funds are being spent here,” said Ali Arif Akturk, the former head of Botas’s gas purchase department who’s now an independent consultant. “Upstream oil and gas has a lot of uncertainties and geological, technical risks and challenges, and here it’s not transparent how much money is at risk.” With assistance from Firat Kozok, Christopher Udemans and Ruth Liao/Bloomberg
“Japan’s commitment to invest $550 billion should be strongly negative for the yen as this means capital flight out of the country,” said Hiroshi Watanabe, head of financial markets research at Sony Financial Group Inc in Tokyo. “So that could be negative for the Japanese economy in the long run.” With assistance from Aya Wagatsuma, Momoka Yokoyama and Hideyuki Sano/Bloomberg
LABOREM EXERCENS
ER assessment by the World Bank, the Philippines is one of the most unequal in the Asia-Pacific region. The top one percent of earners capture 17 percent of the national income, while the share of the bottom 50 percent is a measly 14 percent (WB, Overcoming Poverty and Inequality in the Philippines, 2022).
To reduce inequality, the Bank recommends more government spending on educational reforms and social protection of the disadvantaged. The idea is to create more “equal opportunities” in life for as many Filipinos. These policy recommendations are clearly non-debatable.
What is debatable is the failure of the WB and its partner International Monetary Fund (IMF) to admit – up to now – that its major economic policy impositions in the past have shaped an industry-less, agricultureless and highly unequal Philippines. These are the neo-liberal policy conditionalities that they attached to the PHL-WB “structural adjustment loan” (SAL) packages concluded in the 1980s-2000s.
The 1980s-2000s happened to be decades of Philippine “de-industrialization”, decades that saw the closure of quite a number of factories, from shoe making and ceramic production to cement and textile manufacture. One of the reasons for the wave of factory closures was the government’s program to reduce tariffs way below those of our Asian neighbors on the instigation of the IMF-WB under the SAP program.
In 2005, a coalition of Fair Trade activists composed of industry leaders, trade unionists and farm organizers asked the Cabinet Committee on Tariff and Related Matters (TRM): why set the Philippine applied tariff rates in industry at less than onethird to those of Thailand (4.3 PHL vs 14.2 Thai)? Their neo-liberal stock anwers: to make industry more efficient, more productive, more competitive, more outward-looking.
Some neo-liberal economists in the academe as well as those supporting the work of the TRM at Neda even mocked the Fair Trade campaigners: those who rely on tariff protection to remain in business are Rent Seekers! They added: if these rent seekers cannot compete and survive in a free and open market, let them die on the wayside!
The problem is that the extreme
Neda trade liberalizers, together with their backers from the IMF-WB team, failed to appreciate the unfairness of liberalizing whole sectors of the economy in a global economic order that is uneven and unequal. Yes, a global order where the advanced economies do not observe an equal playing field for all! For example, the United States and European Union have been providing their farm sector tens of billions of dollar/euro subsidies annually through the US Farm Bill and the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy, respectively. And yet in the case of the Philippines, their neo-liberal acolytes persisted in dismantling the price support for farmers through the continuous reduction of the role of the National Food Authority in the market. This NFA downsizing culminated in the passage of the Rice Tariffication Act of 2019, a law that has devastated the rice farming sector today.
The neo-liberalizers were also oblivious of history: the fact that most of the factories that collapsed in the 1980s-2000s were set up to develop an industrial base in a largely agrarian semi-colonial Philippines. This is the main reason why the import-substituting industrial (ISI) policy was pursued by the post-war Philippine government. Under the pre-war Philippine “free trade” with the colonial master America, the extra profit or rent went to the latter as the Philippines became a “hewer of wood and carrier of water” for the United States.
Also ignored: most of the Filipino ISI industrialists went into business the normal route, that is, doing business to make normal profits the normal capitalist way. This meant setting up an enterprise to produce a product needed by the market such as a household appliance or a school material by raising capital, investing on available technology and organizing business as taught in business schools. The role of tariffs, set up during the Diosdado Macapagal administration in the 1960s, was
considered part of the natural business environment, not as a source of extra profit or rent! Incidentally, most of our Asian neighbors pursued a similar protectionist ISI program to develop their domestic industries and yet differed from us by pursuing a program of protection for both the export-oriented and import-substituting industries.
Now does rent-seeking obtain in neo-liberal Philippines today?
Ironically, rent-seeking has become huge under the neo-liberal economic order in the Philippines. Those with capital and political connection saw that they can extract extra profits or rents by simply looking at the critical areas of the economy being abandoned by the government.
These are mostly government services, which the private players are expected to manage or even own outright.
The privatization of government services is very attractive to the taipans. They don’t have to hatch industrial projects – light or heavy – which cannot match those of our Asian neighbors under the Philippine regime of trade lib. They don’t have to invest in the God-forsaken agri sector that has been neglected under the WB’s agri deregulation program and which is being clobbered by the more efficient producers from Asia, United States, Australia-NZ and South America under the Neda/DEPDev program of import liberalization. And they don’t have to worry about the participation of small players because the outsourcing government agency requires bigness: proof of capitalization and capacity to manage large business operations.
The private bidders simply have to sit down with government officials in charge of privatization and decide in which areas of the economy the government is abandoning in the name of Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
Power generation and distribution, water utility service management, construction of bridges and roads, toll maintenance and collection in highways and other infras, upgrading and maintenance of airports, railway development, public market management, waste collection and disposal, etc. Even the delivery of basic public services such as prison management is being considered for turnover to the private sector.
Now look where the top 25 business conglomerates of the country are investing. Look how they are dividing the country into different spheres of influence by taking over the management, maintenance and fee collection of hitherto government services such as electricity distribu-
Ukraine risks becoming to Trump what Afghanistan was to Biden
By Nick Wadhams & Eric Martin
ON the face of it, the US involvement in Ukraine bears little similarity to the 20-year Afghanistan war, not least because there are no American boots on the ground in Europe.
Yet there are similarities for President Donald Trump: resolving the conflict is proving no easy task, and he risks getting shackled with responsibility—and potentially blame—the longer it goes on.
That’s a feeling that has gained more credence as Trump wrestles with how to respond to President Vladimir Putin as he’s stepped up deadly strikes against Ukraine. Trump has been foiled in his pledge to make peace quickly, forcing him to decide whether to get more involved or keep his distance.
Getting sucked into the conflict more deeply would provoke the ire of Trump’s Make America Great Again base. But allowing Russia to make steady gains, while holding off on additional aid, might make him look weak and draw accusations that he didn’t do enough to stop Putin.
“Trump’s been in charge of US policy for almost six months and the war continues, and now it’s on Trump,” said John Herbst, a former
US ambassador to Ukraine, who’s now with the Atlantic Council. “He understands that he could get nailed big time if Putin wins on his watch.”
The Afghanistan comparison may seem far-fetched given the fundamentally different nature of the two conflicts. At its high point, the US had 100,000 troops in Afghanistan and nearly 2,500 American military personnel died over the course of the 20-year war. Ultimately the US was unable to stop the Taliban and President Joe Biden got blamed for a US withdrawal— one that Trump laid the groundwork for in his first term.
The US has no troops on the ground in Ukraine, limiting itself to the flow of weapons and materiel. The conflict is in its fourth year and few analysts predict a massive collapse of the Ukrainian government or say Russia would be able to take over the whole country.
Even so, Trump has strenuously sought to distance himself from
tion, water delivery and so on. But look how the country has become more unequal. The private winners in the privatization game, mostly taipans, are accumulating more and more wealth, fattened by the extra profits or rents they get from the privatization projects that the government has surrendered to them. After all, most of these projects are utilities that are natural monopolies like electricity transmission or quasi-monopolies like power generation.
To protect the consumers, the government declares that it is regulating these privatized utilities through a profit-determination formula called return on rate base (RORB), which establishes the maximum percentage of profits that the private investors can collect. And yet, civil society organizations such as the Freedom from Debt Coalition and the Freedom of Information coalition are complaining about the lack of transparency and public disclosure on the privatization processes, especially in the sharing of contracts and the computation of the RORB. In the case of electricity, some CSOs were shocked when the Energy Regulatory Board (ERB) agreed to the proposal of the Gencos and DUs: adoption of the so-called “Performance-Based Pay” (BSP) formula, which relies heavily on cost declarations by the private companies as the primary means in determining energy tariffs and profit shares of these companies. Finally, it should be pointed out that rent seeking is also clearly manifest in the importation business, no thanks to the government’s trade l ib program. With the weakening of the real sectors (industry and agriculture), the country has become dependent on imports to meet the people’s needs for food, pharmaceuticals and so on. As a result, a former industry CEO observed that the gap between consumption (done at home) and production (done overseas) means the country has created “monsters in the middle” composed of “smugglers, tax-evaders, hoarders, price manipulators and peddlers of substandard products”. Ironically, these monsters in the middle rarely show their faces in the media unlike the taipans who are gifted by the government with contracts in the management of basic public services. Nevertheless, they all play a major role in driving inequality deeper and wider in the country.
Dr. Rene E. Ofreneo is a Professor Emeritus of the University of the Philippines. For comments, please write to reneofreneo@ gmail.com.
it, repeatedly saying the war never would have happened on his watch and suggesting he’s not responsible for the outcome.
“It wasn’t my war — it was Biden’s war,” he said at a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte earlier this month. “It’s not my war. I’m trying to get you out of it.”
The Afghanistan comparison has slowly filtered into the conversation.
Months before Trump won reelection in November, Washington Post columnist Marc Thiessen, a senior fellow at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute, warned Republicans about the dangers of blocking more aid to Ukraine.
“For Republicans, a time for choosing has arrived: Unless you want to be blamed for the fall of Kyiv the way Biden is blamed for the fall of Kabul, send military aid to Ukraine,” he wrote.
Almost a year later, this past February, Council on Foreign Relations President Michael Froman made the point just as sharply, warning that a hasty deal would be a “grave error” that would also undercut Trump’s desire to be seen as a peacemaker.
Last week, Trump announced a plan to get billions of dollars of US weapons to Kyiv, reversing an earlier pause in supplies, and gave Putin 50 days to agree to a ceasefire or face new sanctions—something allies have been urging for months.
“President Trump wants to stop the killing, which is why he is selling American-made weapons to NATO members and threatening Putin with biting tariffs and sanctions if he does not agree to a ceasefire,” White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said. The challenge for Trump is that some of his most die-hard MAGA supporters, including ally Steve Bannon, argue exactly the opposite — that deeper US involvement will be Trump’s undoing.
“If President Trump sells them offensive weapons that can strike deep inside of Russia, I don’t see how you avoid it becoming Trump’s war,” Bannon said in an interview. “The media, the Ukrainians, the Russians and the Neocons would all say it’s Trump’s war.” With assistance from Natalia Drozdiak, Andrea Palasciano, Jennifer A. Dlouhy, Joshua Green, Jamie Tarabay and Alberto Nardelli /Bloomberg
“If you thought the optics of the Taliban parading American Humvees through Kabul looked bad, imagine the Russians driving a convoy of Abrams tanks through Kharkiv,” Froman wrote.
Dr. Rene E. Ofreneo
BusinessMirror
Trade deal a boon or bane? Farm groups weigh impact
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
EVENthough the Philippines got the same tariff treatment as Indonesia, the United Coconut Association of the Philippines (Ucap) expressed confidence in a potential rise in coconut shipments to the United States.
American food producers are also expected to notch gains as the Philippines will import more meat cuts from the US, according to the Meat Importers and Traders Association (Mita).
This, after Washington reduced the reciprocal tariffs levied on Philippine goods to 19 percent from 20 percent, while US products may enter the Philippines tariff-free.
Ucap Chairman Marco Reyes said the additional tariffs would dent the demand for overall import of coconuts as it would trickle into the cost of the product, which could spur a sharp pullback in consumer spending.
“Coconut importation from the Philippines will be 19 percent more expensive now to American consum-
ers, compared to zero percent in the past. That will dampen the overall demand of coconut imports,” Reyes told the BusinessMirror on Wednesday. However, he noted that recent developments in the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could allow for more shipments of Philippine coconuts to the US.
“Exports to US might [as] well increase from two developments: the FDA has removed coconut as an allergen, and the FDA Commissioner said they might remove the cap on saturated fat in the US Dietary Guidelines,” he added. He explained that under the current rules, the ceiling on saturated fat stands at 10 percent. Coconut oil is the most saturated fat at 95 per-
‘Subic ammo facility deal sealed with US boosts PHL defense self-reliance’
By Samuel P. Medenilla
@sam_medenilla
WITH the backing of the United States government in the construction of a new ammunition and storage and production facility in Subic, President Ferdinand Marcos said the Philippines is now closer to achieving a self-reliant defense program (SRDP).
In a press briefing with reporters in Washington D.C. on Tuesday (US time), the chief executive said the project, which he said was approved almost a year ago through a US government-sponsored foreign direct investment, will push through.
“That’s really something that we were going to do anyway. Even if we don’t have help, we’re really going to do that. And they (US government) have offered to help. So, we will do that,” Marcos said.
During his joint press conference with Marcos, US President Donald Trump said he considers the project important since it will help provide the US soldiers with more ammunition.
“We’’re gonna end up in a few months, we’ll have more ammunition than any country has ever had,” Trump said.
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro said foreign direct investment is expected to generate hundreds of employment opportunities and provide Subic additional revenue sources.
“Depending on the scale, initially about 200 to 300 people, highly technical people. But then, there are downstream industries. Of course, they will have to build access to port facilities. It will regenerate revenue on a commercial basis for Subic,” Teodoro said. When asked about Beijing’s warning against the construction of such a new military infrastructure in Subic, Marcos shrugged off the threat, saying that the Philippines is already a target for China even without the new facility.
“So, I think that what we have to
be thinking about is protecting the Philippines,” Marcos said.
Security response
MARCOS said the country’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military forces is in response to Beijing’s continued aggression in the South China Sea (SCS).
China continues to claim parts of the SCS within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone even after it was invalidated by the 2016 Arbitral Award.
“All of the, what we consider part of the modernization of the Philippine military, is really as a response to the circumstances that surround the situation around the South China Sea and now what we used to refer to as Asia Pacific, which we have expanded now to the Indo-Pacific,” Marcos said.
Marcos said he welcomes continued US support in enhancing Philippine defense capabilities through joint military exercises and the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Despite the territorial disputes with Beijing, Marcos said he is open to dialogue with China, especially as the Philippines is set to host the 2026 Association of Southeast Asian (Asean) Summits and related meetings.
Representatives from the US and China are invited to participate in such related Asean meetings.
Marcos said the Philippines will continue to pursue its own national interest rather than pivoting toward any superpower.
“There is no need, in a sense, to balance, as you characterize it, to balance our relationship between the United States and China. Simply because our foreign policy is an independent one,” Marcos said.
He said the Philippines is open to forming partnerships with “likeminded” nations with the same values and chose to adhere to international laws.
For his part, Trump said he does not mind if the Philippines gets along with China, especially since he claimed the US also has a “very good relationship” with Beijing.
cent, he added.
“[Based on] their evidence, saturated fat does not cause cardiovascular disease,” according to Reyes.
He also gave assurances that Philippine coconut would remain competitive against Indonesia, a leading producer of the crop worldwide.
“There will be no effect in terms of the competitiveness of Philippine coconut products as compared to Indonesia, since the tariffs are on parity.”
Reyes said the 19-percent duties slapped on the country’s coconuts would not affect their profit margin or price.
“Tariff is paid by the importing company. The Philippines’ coconuts also have a big demand in the EU [European Union].”
More meat
MEANWHILE , Mita President
Emeritus Jesus Cham said the zero rated tariffs on imports from the US would favor certain meat cuts, which could also merit a shift in the market should it push through.
“Chicken leg quarters and chicken MDM [mechanically deboned meat] will be impacted favorably,” Cham told this newspaper.
“Pork and beef imports will also be affected favorably, although we do not buy a lot from the [US] at the mo-
ment. This will most likely change.”
He added that other countries might also need to adjust their prices to compete against the duty-free products from the US.
“The question is, when will this take effect? Importers will have to digest their current inventory and products in the pipeline to avoid losses,” Cham said.
“Bottom line, I suppose, is that meat prices from the United States will come down by December over the new year.”
However, Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa noted that the zero tariffs in certain markets remain under discussion, citing President Marcos’s statement that it would mainly be applied to automobiles.
“The President also issued a statement before he flew back to Manila and clarified that the zero tariff is for automobiles and does not include all [markets],” De Mesa told reporters on Wednesday.
“There will be further discussions here [in the Philippines] on how the details of this will be. So, let’s just wait for the details.”
Too early to assess impact on farm sector FOR his part, Agriculture Secretary
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
LABOR groups on Wednesday raised alarm over a new trade arrangement between the Philippines and the United States, warning that it may expose local industries to unfair competition and was negotiated without sufficient transparency.
President Donald Trump earlier announced that tariffs on Philippine exports to the US will be reduced by one percentage point—from 20 percent to 19 percent.
He also declared that US goods entering the Philippines will not be subjected to tariffs. Malacañang later clarified that the Philippines agreed to remove tariffs specifically on American automobile imports.
For labor organizations, the arrangement raises serious questions on whether the supposed gains justify the concessions made.
“What else did we give up in return? It looks like this is a onesided concession that deepens our economic dependence on the US, now led by an unpredictable and dangerous figure,” said Josua Mata, Secretary General of the Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa (Sentro).
Sentro is also calling for a full disclosure of the agreement’s provisions and a thorough impact as-
sessment, especially on industries likely to face heightened competition from cheaper imports.
“We in SENTRO demand full and immediate disclosure of the agreement’s terms, a comprehensive assessment of its real impact on our economy, and genuine public consultations with workers, industries, and communities who will bear the brunt of this deal,” Mata added.
The Federation of Free Workers (FFW) echoed similar concerns, stressing the need for more strategic and sector-specific gains from US-Philippine trade relations.
“Handshake diplomacy is not enough. What workers need are formal agreements that strengthen job security and industry resilience,” said FFW President Atty. Sonny Matula.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that the US remained the country’s top export destination in May 2025, with shipments reaching USD 1.115 billion.
Electronics and semiconductors made up the bulk of these exports.
Given this, FFW urged the government to reinforce support for sectors where the Philippines already enjoys a competitive edge.
“Let’s...focus on boosting sectors where we’re competitive— like chips, not just Chevys,” said FFW Vice President Jun Ramirez.
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
BUSINESS Process Outsourcing (BPO) employers should implement work-from-home arrangements and flexible shifts amid the heavy rains, the BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN) said on Wednesday.
BIEN President Mylene Cabalona issued the call after the group received multiple reports from BPO employees who were still being “forced” to work onsite despite flooding and the lack of available transportation.
“We cannot accept business-asusual while our fellow workers are wading through floodwaters, risk-
ing their health and safety just to report to work,” Cabalona said. Under Republic Act No. 11058 or the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Law, workers have the right to refuse unsafe work—without fear of sanction or reprisal—if there is imminent danger to their life or safety, including during typhoons, floods, or other natural calamities.
This provision is reinforced by the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) Labor Advisory No. 17, Series of 2022, which affirms that workers who fail or refuse to report for duty due to serious safety risks brought on by weather-related hazards shall not be penalized.
However, since the suspension of work due to rain remains the sole prerogative of private employers, workers who choose not to report for duty are not entitled to regular pay—unless a more favorable policy, collective bargaining agreement (CBA), or established company practice provides for paid leave during such weather-related suspensions.
DOLE Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma earlier clarified that hazard pay would only apply if the workplace is officially declared hazardous or under imminent danger.
BIEN said many BPO workers are afraid of being penalized for absence or tardiness even during
severe weather, which is why companies must take the initiative to declare the presence of imminent danger at the workplace.
“If the government and employers truly value workers’ lives, they must recognize that this is a clear and present danger—not just an inconvenience,” Cabalona added. Cabalona also called on the labor department to
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
US healthcare firm plans to build tertiary hospital in PHL
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
UNITED States-based healthcare giant Bon Secours Mercy Health (BSMH) is planning to invest as much as $500 million in the Philippines to develop a “premium, state-of-the-art” tertiary hospital, according to the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (OSAPIEA).
In a meeting held last Monday with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Washington, D.C., the US-based healthcare giant also announced its plans to expand its existing Global Business Services (GBS) operations in the Philippines.
“As a $13-billion integrated Catholic health delivery system based in the United States, we’re proud to expand our global reach and deepen our existing commitment in the Philippines,” said John Starcher,
President and CEO of Bon Secours Mercy Health.
OSAPIEA said this public-private partnership will provide “opportunities of mutual benefit” that delivers modern facilities and premium medical services to the growing Filipino population, while supporting BSMH’s global workforce.
“If realized, it would mark one of the largest private-sector healthcare investments by a US-based system in the Philippines, underscoring
the country’s position as a strategic partner in healthcare innovation, infrastructure development, and talent growth,” OSAPIEA said in a statement on Wednesday.
“After meeting with President Marcos, Jr. today, we are excited to begin the aggressive exploration of developing state of the art healthcare delivery services to provide unique, premium access to the Filipinos and our own associates,” the chief of BSMH said. Starcher added that he couldn’t be “more bullish on bringing new, premium healthcare services to the Philippines.”
Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs
Frederick D. Go said BSMH’s expansion and investment plans signal a “strong vote of confidence in the Philippines and a transformative opportunity for our healthcare and services sectors.”
With this, Go said the Philippine team will work closely with BSMH “to help turn their plans into reality.”
Further, the economic czar of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. underscored that the US-based healthcare giant’s investment will “generate meaningful jobs and
help deliver world-class facilities, advanced medical equipment, and high-quality healthcare for the Filipino people.”
Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, BSMH is one of the world’s largest not-for-profit health systems, with more than 50 hospitals, 1,200 care sites across the US and Ireland, and a global workforce of over 60,000.
BSMH reported annual revenues of $5 billion in mid-2025, OSAPIEA also noted in its statement.
The company has established a presence in the Philippines through its subsidiaries Nordic, which provide IT services, and Bon Secours Mercy Health Philippines, which will provide back-end support services to its global operations.
From a current team of about 170, BSMH shared plans to expand its GBS operations in Manila to approximately 1,200 professionals, creating more “high-quality” jobs for Filipino talent.
“This center will operate alongside BSMH’s US-based teams to enhance the organization’s non-patient-facing capabilities and deliver upon its mission,” said OSAPIEA.
Phinma Education enrollment up 11%
PHINMA Education Holdings
Inc., a unit of Phinma Corp., said the number of its students for this school year rose by 11 percent to 163,000 from 146,474 during the previous school year.
The company said the increase in enrollment, along with the strong performance of new schools and broader market reach, contributed to a net income of P1.5 billion for financial year 2024-2025 ending March 31 this year, an 8-percent
increase from a year ago.
“These results are a reflection of our deep commitment to student success,” Phinma Education CFO Daisy Montinola said.
“Our continued investments in student support systems and retention programs have not only strengthened our operations but also reaffirmed our mission to serve.”
Revenues grew by 14 percent to P6.5 billion, driven by higher
enrollment and retention, the company said.
“It’s equally rewarding to see our financial growth mirror the progress of our students,” Montinola said.
“We’re excited about expanding our reach, and empower more students across Southeast Asia to transform their lives through education.”
Across its 12 schools, the company provides “holistic, student-centered support” including academic coaching, career mentoring, and life guid-
ance, designed to help students stay on track and succeed.
Its scholarship programs also reduce the cost of education, broadening access for underserved students.
The Sahabat Horizon Scholarship in Indonesia offers recipients up to 50 percent tuition coverage, while the Hawak Kamay Scholarship in the Philippines reduced tuition to as low as P5,500 per semester, with no entrance exam or maintaining grade requirements. VG Cabuag
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
AS it shifts its priority to renewable energy (RE), First Gen Corp. said it would pour more money into its geothermal business starting next year.
“For us, the most important feature of RE, our platform and our portfolio, is the geothermal side. Over the last two years, even up to this year, we’ve had made significant investment in drilling as well as new capex [capital expenditure]. So, that’s all pretty much going to be completed by this year.
But next year, there’ll be more investments because when you think about it, the assets themselves are over 40 years old,” said First Gen President and Chief Operating Officer Francis Giles Puno.
The company’s geothermal business is operated by its subsidiary Energy Development Corp. (EDC) where Puno sits as vice chairman and chief executive officer.
EDC’s 1,169.85 megawatt (MW) geothermal portfolio comprises 80 percent of the country’s total installed geothermal capacity, making the Philippines the third largest geothermal producer in the world.
It owns 12 geothermal power stations in Leyte, Bicol, Negros Island, and North Cotabato. EDC also conducts commercial operations in four geothermal contract areas: Tongonan, Southern Negros, BaconManito, and Mt. Apo.
“In geothermal, our plants have been on operation for the last 40 years. So we’re in the process of up -
grading some of the other facilities and also putting in newer facilities so that the whole concept of renewable energy is to prove that geothermal is an important renewable resource,” said Puno. For instance, EDC’s geothermal facility in Leyte could undergo rehabilitation since it has been operating for 40 years.
“The question we ask ourselves is, if we came in there for the very first time, will I be building the same plant and the same location with the same technology? The plant that was there is not the right technology anymore. It’s fully depreciated. We are now in an opportunity to say, let’s rebuild the facility, the right facility, so that in the next 40 years, we’ll be able to generate more renewable baseload coming from geothermal. So, that’s something that we are planning as we speak. But geothermal is an important resource. We need to work with government, both the ERC [Energy Regulatory Commission] and the DOE [Department of Energy], to find a way to support more geothermal to come in because as you know the challenge of geothermal is the exploration side of that and the upside is not as high as regular oil and gas because you’re only as good as how competitive your electricity price is,” said Puno.
Another geothermal asset that needs to be rehabilitated is EDC’s Palinpinon geothermal facility, which is over 40 years old. “We’re now in the process of upgrading the existing plant.”
First Gen has a total installed capacity of 3,668MW in its portfolio of RE and gas-fired facilities.
PHOTO FROM WWW.FIRSTGEN.COM.PH
Groups, firm seek government sobriety on online gambling
By VG Cabuag @villygc & Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio
SEVERAL groups as well as
publicly-listed firm DigiPlus Interactive Corp. are calling for government, especially lawmakers, to exercise sobriety in regulating the gaming sector.
“We are open to evolving and improving wherever needed. If there are new standards to meet, or better ways to protect players, we will act swiftly and responsibly. But please, do not condemn an industry, and the 50,000 Filipino families who rely on it, without hearing the facts first,” DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio H. Tanco said.
Meanwhile, the Bantay Konsyumer, Kalsada, Kuryente (BK3) and the Konsyumer at Mamamayan (KM) organizations emphasized that sweeping bans will push online gambling underground and possibly become more vulnerable to abuse. They called for policies that focus on identifying and disabling illegal gambling operations through smarter, tech-based approaches.
“People are right to be concerned about the harms tied to gambling,” said lawyer and BK3 Convenor Mary Kathryn “Karry” Sison. “But simply banning something operating in cyberspace will not work as illegal online gaming sites operating from abroad, beyond our laws, will still be able to spread harmful software and stealing user data.”
Digiplus, to note, expressed deep concern that responsible, law-abiding operators are being swept into a tide of suspicion meant to catch those who have never complied with regulation in the first place.
Blaming game
ACCORDING to Digiplus, many of the measures now being debated in Congress have been in place in DigiPlus platforms since November 2024. These include the rigorous know-your-customer (KYC) checks, mandatory age verification that bars minors and vulnerable players, self-exclusion tools and responsiblegaming prompts.
DigiPlus said it has always done its best to align its operations with regulatory expectations from regulator, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor), and other relevant government agencies. Every peso flowing through its platforms is taxed, audited and remitted to the Pagcor and the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the company explained.
“Tell us what more we must do; and we will do it without hesitation. Just grant us the fairness owed to any lawful Filipino enterprise,” Tanco said.
The company said the current atmosphere feels less like regulation and more like retribution.
“We stand licensed, audited and transparent, yet we are made to answer for the crimes of illegal operators who respect neither law nor livelihood,” Tanco said.
“We are appealing to the government: Let us approach this rationally. If we study the issue with clear eyes, we will see that the social ills being blamed on online gaming stem from the illegal market. That is where underage gambling happens. That is where financial abuse thrives. Target that, and the harm disappears,” the company said.
THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has greenlit the release of P625 million to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to provide immediate relief during calamities.
Malicious codes
MEANWHILE, BK3 and KM emphasized that unregulated gambling platforms often serve as entry points for fraud, identity theft, phishing scams, and even human exploitation. Because these platforms operate without oversight, users have no protection from malicious codes or data breaches.
“Banning regulated platforms does not remove the risk—it just shifts it somewhere harder to see and harder to control,” BK3’s Sison added.
Although government agencies have already blocked thousands of sites, Sison said many continue to resurface using new web addresses and offshore servers.
“You can shut down one site today, and it’s replaced by another tomorrow. That’s why we need systems that track and stop these operators before they reach our screens,” she said. “This is a cybersecurity issue, and we should treat it as such.”
Gaming regulation
KM Convenor Danilo Lorenzo De los Santos cited the critical role digital financial services can play in enforcement, particularly mobile wallets.
“e-Wallets are used every day by ordinary Filipinos,” De los Santos said. “With the right rules in place, they can help detect unusual patterns like frequent betting, underage users, or suspicious accounts. Deploying these tools can give regulators the visibility they need to act fast.”
The groups also called for stricter KYC protocols, transaction monitoring, and automatic flagging systems to help identify illegal gambling flows in real-time. They also urged regulators to build stronger coordination between fintech companies, law enforcement, and international enforcement agencies.
“This is about building a safer online environment—not just for players, but for everyone who uses the internet and digital payments,” said DeLos Santos. “We need rules that follow the money, track the bad actors, and keep people informed and protected.”
“We’re not asking to ignore the risks. We’re asking to face them with solutions that actually work,” Sison added.
Over and beyond TANCO also expressed that the consequences of a total ban go far beyond corporate risk.
More than 3,000 direct DigiPlus employees, and an estimated 50,000 jobs across the online gaming industry’s nationwide network, including those in information technology, cybersecurity, software development, as well as multimedia artists, call center agents, security personnel, and housekeeping staff are now at risk, it said.
“In every city, in every province, our people are asking: are we no longer welcome, even when we’ve done everything right?,” Tanco said.
DigiPlus warned that banning licensed operators will not make online gaming go away. It will only drive players toward illegal, unregulated sites with no safeguards.
“We are not asking for special treatment. We are simply asking to be judged by our actions, not by perception, nor by association with those who break the law. Regulation works best when it uplifts what is working, not when it dismantles it,” the company said.
EXCLUSIVE
Govt to rake in low revenues on US-PH tariff deal—experts
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
THE Marcos Jr. administration could see a decline in its revenue collections after the Philippines and the United States agreed to remove tariffs on certain American goods.
Experts forwarded this view after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and US President Donald Trump agreed last Tuesday (US time) to a 19-percent tariff on Philippine exports, while the Philippines committed to removing its tariffs on US-made cars and other goods. (See: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2025/07/23/marcos1-percent-reduction-on-tariffsimposed-by-us-significant-inreal-terms/).
The Philippines’s exchange in the deal, however, could cost the government in foregone revenues, as it will no longer collect duties on certain incoming US goods.
“The unilateral zero tariff on US goods will likely reduce customs revenue, particularly if US imports increase significantly as expected,” John Paulo R. Rivera, senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, told the BusinessMirror.
Rivera explained the tariff deal will further narrow the tax base of
the Bureau of Customs (BOC), after having its revenue target adjusted.
The BOC will raise 22 percent of the government’s full-year revenue target of P4.520 trillion.
The country’s economic managers lowered the BOC’s target by P74 billion to P990 billion from P1.064 trillion due to expectations of lower import growth and tariff collections from rice and electronic vehicles.
Reprioritized expenditures ELIMINATING the tariffs on US exports puts downward pressure on collections, unless offset by higher import volumes or stronger valueadded tax (VAT) enforcement at the border, Rivera added.
Apart from this policy, he said the BOC will also be facing weak global trade, volatility of the Philippine peso and other exemptions under existing free trade agreements, which constrains economic managers to address the gap.
“If revenue erosion continues
The Filipino Middle-class
IREAD on the Peso Weekly website recently that the Filipino middleclass (estimated to be 40 percent of the population) deals with the same stress: just better clothes. The fridge is full, but the wallet is empty. They have comfortable living conditions, but have zero peace of mind. Emergency funds almost always zero, real expenses keep rising.
The Filipino middle class today keeps juggling with loans, credit card bills and new promo and discount traps.
This isn’t upward mobility; it’s just fancy poverty in disguise: looks rich, feels poor. It’s just different packaging for the same financial anxiety. The IG post ended with the line: “You don’t escape the rat race by earning more, you escape by building net worth.”
That got me deep into thinking about how most Filipinos, who live paycheck to paycheck, can build their net worth if a salary raise often lags behind inflation.
The Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP) espouses financial security and inclusion more than building net worth. It seems the same; but not quite. Financial security is the foundation; and the goal is to have stability and peace of mind while net-worth is building long-term wealth.
According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), 65 percent of Filipinos own bank accounts. Our focus is to bring more people into the formal
without offsets, the national government may be forced to reprioritize expenditures,” Rivera said when asked whether the zero tariffs could jeopardize government spending if revenues fall short.
This could potentially translate to slower rollout of infrastructure or tighter social protection budgets, especially for health, education or subsidies, he added.
Since 6 percent to 7 percent of Philippine imports come from the US, the zero tariffs on US goods will have a “significant impact,” according to Reinielle Matt Erece, an economist for Oikonomia Advisory & Research Inc.
“If [US exporters] produce goods at a superior efficiency than local producers, their prices will be cheaper, thus they will be in demand more than local products,” Erece told the BusinessMirror
Smaller share
WHILE US imports currently make up a smaller share compared to China or Asean, Rivera said that highervalue goods such as machinery, meat and consumer products from the US could now surge and erode tariff collections.
This adds risks to the country’s fiscal position, Rivera added, as the government tries to balance debt repayments, social spending and infrastructure investments.
“Any sustained shortfall may require compensatory measures, such as tighter spending controls, higher reliance on borrowing, or new or higher taxes elsewhere,” he told the BusinessMirror
economy and access more financial products, have more assets than liabilities, more savings than debts, make use of digital technologies in banking for better speed, convenience and security. Banks develop products and services to increase account ownership and financial inclusion for the unbanked and accelerate digital adoption. Opening a bank account is now more affordable with basic deposit accounts that offer zero to low opening and maintaining balances, and more accessible with different ways of banking such as traditional branch banking, online banking, e-wallet, digital banks, etc.
For many years, the BMAP has also been promoting savings consciousness and the value of saving early by teaching young learners and individuals about money management. We advocate the “20-20-60 rule” for budgeting
personal finances, which means setting aside at least 20 percent for savings and investment, 20 percent for wants and discretionary spending, and 60 percent for essential living expenses.
Higher percentage for savings and lower percentage for expenses would be ideal. The goal is to balance savings, reward and enjoyable spending, and to rationalize expenses by determining needs versus wants.
These fundamental pillars (affordability, accessibility) as well as continuing public education are crucial to financial education and inclusion, and in increasing public awareness about the right financial behavior and discipline
What’s really important is to live in balance—save some, spend some, enjoy some. Prioritize what matters most and make conscious financial choices for a fulfilling and sustainable lifestyle. Just live within your
To plug this, the government should improve the efficiency of tax administration, pursue non-tradebased revenue sources, strengthen digital tax enforcement and curb leakages in tax collections, particularly in VAT and excise taxes, Rivera explained.
Already favorable
FORMER lawmaker and economist
Joey Sarte Salceda said the zero tariffs for the US may not be as “sweeping” as Trump makes it to be since specific American goods will not be levied by the Philippines.
“Out of diplomatic poise, it is right that President Marcos let Trump have his moment for his own domestic audience,” Salceda said adding this could be beneficial for the country’s manufacturing sector.
“The previous 20 percent tariff on the Philippines was already among the lowest to start with, even before the trade talks/negotiations, so already favorable at the onset,” Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., said. With just a 1-percent reduction, the rate matches what Indonesia obtained. However, Japan got a 15-percent tariff a few hours after the PH-US deal.
Still, Ricafort said the market expects that Trump could set the baseline tariffs at 10 percent to 15 percent for 150 countries, from the current 10 percent baseline tariffs since April 9, which Washington extended until August 1.
means. And save for the rainy days. It’s that simple.
Farewell DG Chuchi
THE banking industry bids farewell to BSP Deputy Governor Chuchi Fonacier who has held the post as head of the Financial Supervision Sector (FSS) since 2017.
While her department is mainly responsible for the regulation of banks, she elevated regulatory practice not just as a compliance oversight, but as a collaborative partnership. Her leadership positioned the BSP as a pillar and enabler of stability, integrity, resilience, innovation, consumer protection and financial inclusion for the underserved, beyond its traditional regulatory function. We celebrate you, DG Chuchi, not only for your remarkable career, but also for the friendship, humility and the quiet strength you brought to the role. We’re excited to see what comes next after your well-deserved retirement. We hope to continue our consultative dialogues but for now, breathe easy.
Mai Gacilo Sangalang is the immediate past president of BMAP and currently its Director for Industry Relations, Banking Code and Financial Inclusion. Sangalang is the Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing of Standard Chartered Bank Philippines. She can be reached by emailing maigsangalang@yahoo.com. The writer’s views do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror , BMAP and her employer.
QRFs are standby funds for first response agencies to immediately assist areas stricken by catastrophes and crises.
If the QRFs of first response agencies reach 50 percent or lower, they
According to the latest list of Special Allotment Release Order (Saro), the DBM approved the release of P625 million to DSWD on Wednesday to replenish the agency’s Quick Response Fund (QRF). This is the second time that DSWD has asked to augment its QRF this year. It requested to increase its QRF last May 20, which amounted to P747.696 million.
may request replenishment to the DBM, which will be approved by the Office of the President.
Under Section 22(c) of Republic Act (RA) 10121, the QRF represents 30 percent of the total disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) Fund, which will only be disbursed during a state of calamity.
Several local government units, including Quezon City, Malabon City, City of Manila, and other
provinces, have declared a state of calamity following the heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon or habagat, intensified by Severe Tropical Storm Crising, two low-pressure areas, and Tropical Depression Dante within the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
Data from the DBM showed a total of P3.593 billion in National DRRM Fund, also known as calamity fund, has been disbursed to key govern-
ment agencies as of the end of June. Calamity funds may be used to provide aid, relief and rehabilitation to affected communities. It can also be used to repair and rebuild infrastructure damaged by natural or human-induced calamities within the current or past two years.
So far,
Health&Fitness
Filipinos now focus on living well rather than living longer–survey
By Rory Visco Contributor
AN increasing number of Fili -
pinos are now rethinking of the idea of ageing well and not just living longer. The latest results of the Manulife Asia Care Survey
2025, which talked to about 1,000 Filipinos, showed that more are now putting greater value on health, independence, and quality of life instead of just aiming to live longer.
Before, the idea among many Filipinos is to live long enough—period. Now, the survey revealed that only 13 percent pointed to a longer life as their top goal in old age, compared to the 26 percent who said they would prioritize financial independence, while 17 percent stated that staying physically, mentally, and socially active was most important to them.
With this shift, it reflects a new, more holistic definition of wellness in later life—one centered on energy, purpose, and self-reliance.
A new definition of longevity
IN the Philippines, life expectancy is expected to reach 73.2 years by 2050, but many see 69 as their ideal lifespan, which suggests they’re aiming for vitality and dignity and not just the numbers.
“Filipinos are redefining what it means to live a good life,” explains
By Kenneth M. Del Rosario Contributor
AS the Philippines continues to grapple with one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the world, young Filipinos are speaking up, this time louder, clearer, and more urgently than ever.
HIV cases in the country have been rising at an alarming pace, with young people making up an increasingly significant portion of new infections. According to the Department of Health, nearly half of the new HIV cases today come from the 15 to 24 age group, a shift that signals the urgent need for youth-centered approaches to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment.
These were some of the key takeaways in a youth-led forum held recently in Taguig called “Red Alert: Youth Speak on the HIV Emergency.” Organized by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Philippines, the forum was attended by students, advocates, and public health professionals who came together to confront a growing health crisis that remains largely overlooked especially among the youth.
“The number of new HIV infections has increased by more than 500 percent in the last 10 years,” said Dr. Joselito R. Feliciano, one of the panelists, during the talk. Panelists during the forum include Neoman Roxas, program officer of AHF Philippines; Dhan Chris Reyes, president of Gabay; and Sydney Nadarisay, national treasurer of Kabataang FPOP.
By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes Contributor
T
HE non-governmental organization Coalition for People’s Right to Health (CPRH) has publicly expressed support for Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to health, following the presentation of her report at the 59th session of the Human Rights Council. Dr. Mofokeng emphasized the vital role of health and care workers as defenders of the right to health, a stance the
Rahul Hora, President and CEO of Manulife Philippines. “It’s not just about living longer—it’s about living better, with freedom and independence.”
This shift highlights the growing importance of healthy habits, financial preparedness, and mental well-being—all key elements of a fulfilling later life.
Health concerns start early
A SURPRISING insight from the survey is that it’s not just older adults worrying about their health. Filipinos aged 25 to 34 reported significant health challenges, with 44 percent experiencing physical or mental issues that affect daily life.
Despite this, many aren’t taking preventive steps. On average, respondents followed only five out of 17 recommended health measures, while less than one in five monitor key health indicators like muscle mass and oxygen uptake, factors linked to long-term vitality and disease prevention.
Even with limited action, 74 percent of Filipinos believe their current health habits are enough to protect them in old age, a sign that awareness does not always lead to action.
“There’s a clear gap between knowing and doing,” Hora says. “We need to encourage healthier daily choices—like regular check-ups, bal -
anced diets, movement, and mental wellness support. These habits build a strong foundation for aging well.”
Financial health matters, too THE survey also found strong links between financial security and overall wellness. About 80 percent of respondents believe that financial well-being affects how long they can stay physically healthy, while 76 percent say it also impacts their mental and emotional resilience.
Yet there’s a major savings gap. Filipinos estimate they’ll need P3.85 million to retire comfortably, but their current average savings sit at just P630,000, or a measly 16 percent of what they’ll need.
“People understand that health and wealth are connected, but many haven’t acted on this knowledge,” Aira Gaspar, President and CEO of Manulife Investments Philippines, noted. “Without adequate savings or investments, maintaining quality of life in old age becomes harder.”
As for preparing for retirement, cash still dominates, where 66 percent of respondents keep their money in savings or fixed deposits, and 51 percent have plans to invest in property. But more than half (54 percent) need a steady income stream in retirement, which traditional savings or real estate alone may not be able to provide reliably.
“With inflation and rising healthcare costs, relying solely on cash or property can leave people vulnerable to outliving their savings,” Gaspar pointed out. “There’s a growing need for diversified investments that offer income, growth, and flexibility.”
The value of financial planning also stood out in the survey. About 70 percent who work with financial advisors believe they will have enough for retirement compared to just 38 percent of those without professional guidance, a reminder that good advice, like good health, pays off in the long run.
As life expectancy rises in the Philippines, aging well becomes a more important and personal goal. More Filipinos want to stay active, maintain their independence, and enjoy a fulfilling life, whether that means continuing to work, traveling, volunteering, or spending quality time with family.
This evolving mindset calls for a more proactive approach to both health and finances. It’s about making conscious choices now that will lead to freedom and well-being later.
“The message is clear,” says Hora. “Filipinos want to age with dignity and purpose. That means taking care of their health, securing their finances, and designing a lifestyle that allows them to enjoy the years ahead and not just endure them.”
By Edwin P. Sallan
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Healthcare professionals, industry leaders, innovators and other stakeholders from Southeast Asia and beyond gathered at the recently concluded International Healthcare Week (IHW) 2025 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur.
The event, which ran from July 16 to 18, 2025, is widely considered as Southeast Asia’s largest and most influential healthcare gathering and attracted approximately 21,000 professionals from over 50 countries.
As it aims to further the region’s integrated healthcare system and promote innovation, technology, and investment to achieve sustainable growth, the three-day event provided a highly dynamic environment for networking and collaboration.
Rungphech (Rose) Chitanuwat, Regional Portfolio Director Asean at Informa Markets, which organized the event took note of this on IHW’s opening day. “The energy and engagement on opening day truly reflected the collective commitment of the region’s healthcare community to innovate and collaborate for a healthier future,” Chitanuwat noted.
plified the event’s impact and reach. According to Chitanuwat, “These partnerships are vital— they enable us to share resources, expertise, and best practices, addressing common challenges and accelerating progress across borders. IHW 2025 has demonstrated how collaboration can transform healthcare in the region.”
In this regard, Malaysia also plays a strategic role as both Asean Chair in 2025 and IHW 2025 host, “Malaysia’s leadership and supportive initiatives position it as a gateway for global healthcare collaboration, making IHW 2025 a pivotal event to elevate regional healthcare cooperation and economic growth,” Chitanuwat acknowledged, adding that the country’s strong ecosystem, from medical device manufacturing to Muslim-friendly health care, was also instrumental in being selected as host country for IHW 2025.
For his part, Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz said that as Asean chair, Malaysia intends to use IHW 2025 as “a platform to promote deeper regional healthcare integration, while also contributing to shaping a more connected and innovative future for Asean and the world.”
The event took place at the newly opened Hiraya Taguig Youth Development Center in New Lower Bicutan, a space built to support and empower the city’s young population. With its clean, modern interiors and youthcentered mission, the center provided a timely and symbolic backdrop for urgent conversations about HIV.
A silent epidemic among the youth THE Philippines currently ranks among the countries with the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the Asia-Pacific region. While HIV awareness has grown in the last decade, the increasing number of infections among adolescents and young adults suggests that many still fall through the cracks of public health messaging and access.
Feliciano emphasized how the virus is affecting the younger generation more than ever before. “HIV is a serious issue, especially for our youth,” he said. “Almost half of the new HIV cases reported are from the 15 to 24 age group.”
One of the forum’s goals was to amplify the youth’s role in shaping HIV policies, programs, and peer education.
“The youth is really involved now. We’re not just bystanders. We’re part of the decision-making, we’re in the discussions, and we’re helping shape the programs. That’s what makes this different,” said Jullian Tumbali, also one of the panelists during the forum. She is president of Girls Act Philippines, a youth-led program run by the AHF which empowers adolescent girls
CPRH described as timely and critical given the ongoing violations against health workers, particularly in the Philippines. The CPRH noted that Dr. Mofokeng’s assessment comes amid continuing threats to the welfare of health workers, who face a range of challenges such as unfair labor practices, manpower shortages, excessive workloads, understaffed mental health facilities, and substandard compensation. Dr. Mofokeng’s report, as endorsed by CPRH, stresses that achieving health equity involves more than universal coverage. It also requires addressing systemic pow -
and young women to take control of their sexual and reproductive health.
A whole-of-government response IN response to the growing crisis, the government is shifting gears. Gone are the days when HIV was treated solely as a health department concern. Felicano said that what is being deployed now is a “whole-ofgovernment” approach—one that calls on every relevant sector to act in coordination.
“This time around, we’re not just talking to the Department of Health,” he said. “We’re engaging the Department of Education, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Commission on Higher Education, and even the private sector.”
The move acknowledges a crucial reality: HIV isn’t just a health issue, but one that touches on education, economics, mental health, and social inequality. Young people contract HIV for different reasons—some due to lack of information, others because of stigma, or because they don’t have safe spaces to talk about sex, sexuality, and access to health services. Addressing this requires responses at every level, including local government units, school systems, and even digital platforms where youth spend most of their time.
While the implementation is still uneven across regions, the forum made it clear that many youth advocates welcome this more integrated response. “We need more than testing. We need education, counseling, protection, and a system that listens,”
er imbalances within the health sector. Cost burden DESPITE the Universal Health Care Law and PhilHealth, the nation’s health indicators regularly miss targets. Workers and households shoulder much
said Aeronne Ara Pagtakhan, another panelist, who leads Fruity by LoveYourself, the core youth-led arm of LoveYourself Incorporated, designed to amplify the voices, stories, and leadership of young Filipinos in their cities and communities.
The hope is that this move can lead to more proactive policies, faster service delivery, and stronger support systems—especially in communities outside Metro Manila where youth vulnerability is growing but services remain limited.
Barriers to access and education FOR many young Filipinos, especially those outside Metro Manila, access to HIV services remains a challenge. Stigma, lack of age-appropriate sex education, and fear of discrimination often prevent adolescents from seeking help early.
Speakers also called for the integration of comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) in schools, a longpending measure that health experts believe could significantly curb new infections.
The forum also spotlighted peerled programs and community-based efforts that are already making a difference. AHF, for instance, operates free testing centers and community outreach programs that reach highrisk youth across the country.
The takeaway from the “Red Alert” forum was clear: the country’s HIV response must evolve—and quickly.
This means ensuring access to testing and treatment regardless of age, breaking down the stigma that silences conversations, and putting youth voices at the center of HIV policymaking.
With infection rates showing no sign of slowing down, health advocates say the time to act is now.
During the news briefing that took place shortly after the opening ceremonies, Chitanuwat underscored the spirit of collaboration across Asean nations, citing partnerships not just with Malaysia but also other SEA nations namely Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.
“These partnerships are vital as they enable us to share resources, expertise, and best practices, addressing common challenges and accelerating progress across borders. IHW 2025 has demonstrated how collaboration can transform healthcare in the region,” Chitanuwat added.
As it is, IHW 2025 already unites five leading health care trade shows in one event under one big roof. These are CPHI South East Asia for pharmaceuticals, WHX Kuala Lumpur for medical devices, WHX Labs Kuala Lumpur for diagnostics, Medtec Southeast Asia for medical technology, and HIMSS for digital health.
Regional collaborations play a crucial role in the success of IHW 2025 by fostering strong partnerships across Asean and beyond that am -
With MITEC spanning 26,000 square meters and covering the full healthcare value chain for IHW 2025, attendees were provided with a comprehensive view of the latest healthcare technologies and solutions as well as the opportunity to explore innovations across diverse sectors. Time and money were also saved as the colocation of events in a single venue enabled attendees to see over 900 leading local, regional, and international exhibitors showcasing more than 15,000 products and services.
Complementing the exhibitions were over 125 dedicated conferences addressing specific industry needs and developments as well as offering targeted learning experiences, IHW 2025 provided numerous opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange, and business partnerships.
IHW 2026 is scheduled for July 8 to 10, 2026 in QSNCC in Bangkok, Thailand. As different Asean nations host IHW every year, the Philippines and Indonesia are also in serious consideration for future editions.
TBy Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
HE floods are here again and the Department of Health (DOH) warned anew for potential waterborne diseases.
As Metro Manila and some parts of the Philippines are experiencing flooding, the DOH reminded the public to be careful with floodwater-related diseases.
The DOH said that flood can be a potential source of many waterborne diseases including dengue and leptospirosis.
Waterborne diseases are also a major concern when pipes are damaged or floodwaters enter homes, resulting in diarrhea and gastrointestinal infections.
Leptospirosis, the DOH said, is caused by the leptospira bacteria, which can be contracted through water and soil contaminated with the urine or feces of infected animals like rats, pigs, cows, and dogs.
Mag-ingat sa inuming tubig, pakuluan muna ito ng dalawang dalawang minuto o gamitan ng chlorine tablets. Kung napalusong sa baha, hugasan ng malinis na tubig at sabon ang katawan, at kumonsulta sa health center kung saan may libreng gamot para sa mga bakwit [Be careful with drinking water, boil it for two minutes or use chlorine tablets. If you fall into the flood, wash your body with clean water and soap, and consult a health center where there is free medicine for evacuees.],” reminded Health Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Albert Domingo.
Domingo also stressed the importance of frequent hand washing and to wash the entire body with soap.
“Seek early medical consultation if symptoms [of waterborne diseases] appear,” he said.
Risk of electrocution
THE DOH, likewise, warned of the risk of electrocution.
“Mapanganib na malubog sa tubig na may live wire o saksakan, maging ang madikit sa mga nakasaksak na appliances na nabasa o nalubog sa tubig. Maaari itong magdulot ng electical shock o pagkakuryente [It is dangerous to walk in floods with submerged live wires or plugs in water, or to come into contact with plugged-in appliances that have been wet or submerged in water. This can cause an electrical shock.],” the DOH said. The DOH said it is better to avoid wading in floodwater, especially near power lines, electrical equipment, or submerged infrastructure. Patayin ang main switch ng kuryente o circuit breaker [Switch off the main switch or circuit breaker.],” the DOH said, adding that possible electrical shock can lead to cardiac arrest cardiac, respiratory arrest, internal organ damage, or skin burns.
Maaaring magsagawa ng CPR sa isang taong nakuryente basta’t masigurong ligtas na ang kapaligiran. Sundin ang S.A.G.I.P. para sa mga hakbang [You can perform CPR on individuals who
Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz
INFORMA Markets Regional Portfolio Director for Asean Rungphech “Rose” Chitanuwat answers questions during the IHW 2025 news briefing. Edwin Sallan
INFORMA Markets Regional Portfolio Director for Asean Rungphech “Rose” Chitanuwat answers questions during the IHW 2025 news briefing. EDWIN SALLAN
Agri damage from ‘Crising’ climbs to ₧323.1M
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE agricultural damage caused by severe tropical storm and the southwest monsoon has climbed to over P300 million, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said Wednesday.
In its latest bulletin, the DA said the losses incurred by 14,722 farmers and fishers have reached P323.15 million.
doro valued at P65 million and Palawan at P56 million.
This was followed by North Cotabato at P58 million and Negros Occidental at P45 million.
He noted that in Central Luzon, Tarlac sustained most of the damages at P30.6 million, followed by Nueva Ecija’s P11.4 million.
and poultry; P353,080, cassava; P44,950, fisheries and P45,000, infrastructure.
The DA said 15,868 hectares of agricultural areas were affected by the storm and habagat.Of these, 12,957 hectares have a chance to recover.
Roger Navarro and Undersecretary Chris Morales to visit areas devastated by the storm and habagat.
This includes farmers in Central Luzon, Mimaropa, Central Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Soccsksargen, and Caraga.
“We want our farmers and fisherfolk to know that the government is fully committed to supporting them, especially during these challenging times,” he said in a statement.
The volume of production losses in Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol Region and Western Visayas, and Soccsksargen was pegged at 10,595 metric tons (MT).
Rice bore the brunt of the damage caused by the combined effects of the typhoon and southwest monsoon at 6,703 MT. Destroyed high-value crops, corn, and cassava reached 2,977 MT, 903 MT, and 12 MT, respectively.
According to Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa, the largest damage was recorded in Mimaropa at P121 million, with losses in Occidental Min -
The report said the production losses are equivalent to P212.6 million for rice; P22.13 million, corn; P82.63 million, high-value crops; P5.33 million, livestock
Despite this, De Mesa assured the public that the series of downpours will not cause a spike in the retail prices of key farm produce, such as rice and vegetables.
“In effect, we do not expect any significant surges or increases in the prices of [farm] goods at the moment,” he told reporters on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. ordered DA Undersecretary
Foreign nations seen buying more pineapples from PHL
THE Philippines and Costa Rica are expected to see more orders for their pineapples in the next 10 years, according to a joint report published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook 2025-2034 also indicated that global exports of pineapples grew by approximately 4 percent in 2024, to 3.3 million metric tons (MMT), driven largely by higher supplies from Costa Rica and the Philippines, the world’s leading exporters with market shares of around 65 percent and 21 percent, respectively.
According to the report, global exports of fresh pineapple are set to grow at 0.5 percent per year to 3.7 MMT in 2034, predominantly driven by demand from the United States and the European Union. With projected imports of 1.3 MMT in 2034 equivalent to a 36-percent global share—the United States is expected to remain the largest importer.
“Only Costa Rica and the Philippines, two important global producers and exporters, are anticipated to see additional export stimulation from rising import demand, with exports projected to account for approximately 73 percent of fresh pineapple production in Costa Rica and 21 percent in the Philippines
in 2034.”
The European Union is expected to account for some 26 percent of global imports, it added. In both key markets, demand is assumed to benefit from continuously low unit prices and, to some degree, from the introduction of more premium novelty varieties.
Rising import demand from China, where consumption growth has been outpacing production expansion in recent years, is expected to additionally drive expansion in global exports.
“At growth of 4.9 percent per annum, China is projected to reach import quantities of some 0.37 MMT per year by 2034, with supplies primarily sourced in the Philippines.”
Last year, preliminary trade data point to an increase in global
imports of pineapples of around 5 percent in 2024, to approximately 3.1 MMT. According to industry information, demand in the United States and the European Union continued to be firm, according to the report.
“While supplies from the main global supplier, Costa Rica, increased for the second year in a row, industry sources reported that this was not enough to satisfy demand in 2024, especially in the European Union, causing indicative average import unit values in both key destinations to increase.”
Aided by relatively stable sales in the hospitality sector, the report noted that imports by the United States grew by some 4 percent in 2024, to 1.2 MMT. Similarly, imports by the European Union, the
Isabela farmers get grant for hog production
Asecond largest importer, rose by some 4 percent, to approximately 0.8 MMT, still some 10 percent below their previous five-yearaverage.
“Estimates thereby suggest that the United States procured about 39 percent of global export supplies in 2024, and the European Union some 26 percent.”
Over the next decade, the report noted that global production of pineapple is projected to grow at 1.2 percent per year, on account of a 0.6 percent annual expansion in harvested area to reach 37 MMT in 2034, from 30 MMT last year.
“Asia is expected to remain the largest producing region accounting for 44 percent of global production, with sizeable production in the Philippines, Indonesia, China, India and Thailand.”
The report noted that cultivation in Asia will continue to largely cater to domestic demand and is projected to grow solidly in response to changing demographics and income growth, especially in India, Indonesia and China.
“Similarly, pineapple production in Latin America and the Caribbean, the second largest producing region at a projected 34 percent of world production in 2034, will be primarily driven by the evolving consumption needs of the region’s growing and increasingly affluent population.” Ada Pelonia
“Essential resources, including seeds and financial aid, are readily available to help our stakeholders recover swiftly.”
With this, the DA said it has allocated P495.4 million in agricultural inputs, including rice, corn, and vegetable seeds that would help those affected by typhoon Crising whose impact was compounded by the southwest monsoon.
The DA said it is ready to tap the Quick Response Fund (QRF) for the rehabilitation of affected areas and offer loans of up to P25,000 through the Survival and Recovery loan program from the Agricultural Credit Policy Council. These loans come with a three-year repayment term, interest-free.
Furthermore, the agency also noted an initial amount of P268 million for the indemnification of 45,980 insured affected farmers would also be released through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC).
Hershey raising candy prices by double digits on high cocoa costs
HERSHEY Co. is raising prices on its candy due to historically high cocoa costs.
The Pennsylvania-based maker of Hershey’s chocolates and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups told its retailers last week that it would be implementing a roughly doubledigit price increase, company officials said Tuesday. That increase reflects a higher list price as well as adjustments to the weight and number of candies in a bag, a practice known as shrinkflation.
“This change is not related to tariffs or trade policies,” Andrew Archambault, president of US confection at Hershey, said in a statement. “It reflects the reality of rising ingredient costs including the unprecedented cost of cocoa.”
The company previously announced a price increase a year ago.
The price of cocoa has surged in the last two years, due to supply shortages in the wake of disease and poor weather in Ivory Coast and Ghana, which usually account for more than 60 percent of global supplies. Cocoa futures have more than doubled and touched a record in December, upending the chocolate industry.
Cocoa futures prices have since cooled as global production improves and demand slumps, but costs remain high above historical levels.
Swiss chocolatier Lindt & Spruengli AG pushed through a 15.8-percent price increase in the first half of the year and its chief executive said he expects cocoa inflation to continue into next year.
to pay higher prices for the company’s soft drinks. It now expects full-year comparable earnings per share growth of about 3 percent, up from a range of 2 percent to 3 percent.
For decades, Coca-Cola has used high fructose corn syrup, which is cheaper than cane sugar, to sweeten its signature product in the US. However, a pricier version of the soft drink, imported from Mexico, uses cane sugar and has gained a cult following.
Prior to the earnings release, CFRA analyst Arun Sundaram wrote that it’s “highly unlikely” that Coca-Cola would fully eliminate corn syrup from its lineup, adding that “a more plausible outcome is the introduction of a new product line made with cane sugar, which would likely carry a higher cost and retail price.” US cane sugar production in the 2025-26 season is expected to account for roughly 30 percent of the nation’s sugar supply, according to the Department of Agriculture. The remainder comes from sugar beets, as well as imports from Mexico and other countries. The new Coke product shows how the Trump administration is wresting change from companies through pressure, rather than new laws or regulations.
N AGRARIAN reform beneficiaries organization (ARBO) from San Manuel, Isabela received a P3-million grant under the Swine Industry Recovery Program (SIRP) of the Department of Agriculture (DA). The grant under the DA’s SIRP, which established the 80-head capacity finisher operation facility featuring an innovative pen design, will further boost the swine production of the North Diversion Canal (NDC) 8 Agrarian Reform Cooperative of Sitio Cagurungan, Barangay Eden. The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Isabela has been providing support to the NDC 8 Agrarian Reform Cooperative along with other ARBOs in the province.
The ARB Organization (ARBO) of NDC 8 empowers ARBs and promotes sustainable development in agrarian reform communities (ARCs).
Funded through the DA-National Livestock Program, the project aims to help local farmers, particularly the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs), recover from recent industry challenges by modernizing swine production and strengthening livelihood opportunities.
Cooperative members expressed optimism about the project, seeing it as a key step toward increasing production, contributing to regional food security, and revitalizing the local agribusiness sector.
“This facility marks a new beginning for our cooperative and a stronger future for our
farmer-members,” said one representative from NDC 8.
The new finisher facility not only represents progress for the cooperative but also highlights the national government’s continuing efforts to rebuild the swine industry across the region.
The inauguration was attended by officials from DAR, the local government, barangay leaders, and representatives from the DA-Agricultural Training Institute Region II and National Irrigation Administration. Jonathan L. Mayuga
Ifad calls for more investments in rural economies
WITH high food prices affecting people around the world, especially in low-income countries, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (Ifad) highlighted the urgency of making “strategic investments” in agriculture and rural development to prevent future food price increases.
Ifad President Alvaro Lario made this pronouncement in a video statement he delivered at the Special Event dedicated to the State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2025 (SOFI 2025) report.
According to the analysis on 2021-2023 food prices conducted in the report, the extensive fiscal and monetary interventions responding to the Covid-19 pandemics, combined with the consequences of the war in Ukraine and recurring climate shocks, have contributed to inflationary pressures and high food prices in recent years. Lario said low-income countries have been hit particularly hard. While median global food price inflation increased from 2.3 per cent in December 2020 to 13.6 per cent in early 2023, it climbed
Other food companies, including Conagra Brands Inc., have said tariffs have raised their supply costs, including for tinplate steel and aluminum.
Hershey said in May that it anticipated $15 million to $20 million of tariff costs in the second quarter. The candy maker has asked the US government for a tariff exemption on cocoa and is still hopeful it may receive one, company officials said Tuesday.
Cane sugar soda
The administration’s so-called “Make America Healthy Again Commission,” a group led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has blamed a rise in chronic diseases in the US in part on unhealthy food ingredients and chemicals.
In a May report, the commission singled out processed sugars such as high-fructose corn syrup and “ultra-processed grains,” linking them to conditions including type 2 diabetes and childhood obesity. But the report didn’t include policy recommendations and food companies have so far largely avoided regulations that would force them to change their ingredient lists.
He also emphasized the need to step up investments in rural and agricultural transformation. “Agrifood systems remain fundamental in ensuring macro-economic stability.”
While monetary and fiscal policies as well as social protection measures can be taken to address food price inflation and shield the most vulnerable, it is also essential to step up strategic investments in food systems, he said. Investments in a more productive and climate resilient agriculture, in post-harvest, market, transport and storage infrastructure and in market and food prices information systems can stabilize food production, prevent value chain bottlenecks and market distortions, and enhance price stability.
“Investment is also needed in rural small and medium-sized enterprises [SMEs], which play a critical role in rural economies. They provide small-scale food producers access to opportunities and create jobs, helping rural populations to diversify their incomes and buy more nutritious foods.”
Ifad noted that official development assistance (ODA) is not enough to unlock the potential of agriculture. For the last two decades, donor support to agricultural development has been stagnant at just 4 percent to 6 percent of the total, reaching only $10 billion in 2023. In addition, very few African governments have devoted 10 per cent of their budget to agriculture as per the 2024 Malabo declaration commitment by signatory states.
COCA-COLA CO. said it’s launching a new Coke product for American consumers made with US cane sugar this fall.
Tuesday’s announcement came less than a week after President Donald Trump said in a Truth Social post that the company agreed to use cane sugar in its US Coke beverages. On a call with analysts, Chief Executive Officer James Quincey thanked the president for his “enthusiasm for our CocaCola brand.”
The company also posted second-quarter sales growth and profit that beat Wall Street expectations as consumers continued
HHS said in April it would work with food producers to eliminate synthetic food dyes by the end of 2026. At the time, industry lobbyists said there was no formal agreement in place to remove the dyes. But since then, large food companies including Conagra Brands Inc., Nestle SA, Kraft Heinz Co. and General Mills Inc. have committed to removing synthetic dyes from large swaths of their food.
Last week, WK Kellogg Co. said it will remove synthetic dyes from its products, including its colorful cereals. Froot Loops in particular has been called out by Kennedy and his “Make America Healthy Again” movement for its use of artificial colors. Bloomberg News
BusinessMirror file photo
eufyMake UV Printer E1 is Most Funded Project in Kickstarter History
EufyMake, the innovative personal creative tool brand from Anker Innovations, has officially set a new record on Kickstarter for its debut product E1 - the world’s first personal 3D-Texture UV Printer. Launched on April 29, 2025, the campaign surpassed $10 million in just 14 hours and has now raised over $46 million, making it the highest-funded project in Kickstarter history (surpassing the previous record of $41.7 million).
“This record-breaking Kickstarter campaign for the eufyMake E1 is a powerful example of what happens when creators and community come together,” said Everette Taylor, CEO of Kickstarter. “When our Kickstarter community gets excited about a project, they really show up. Their willingness to support new innovations before they ever hit the shelves is what makes our community so special. Even more special is how big moments like this create a ripple effect on our platform. The users who discover Kickstarter through campaigns like this one often go on to support crowdfunding campaigns from other creators, so the success of one project contributes to the success of a whole ecosystem of projects. We’re incredibly honored that the eufyMake team chose Kickstarter to debut the E1 — and proud to be Anker’s preferred crowdfunding partner.”
“We’re incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support from our backers,”
said Frank Zhu, Senior Vice President of Anker Innovations and eufy Business Group Lead. “Our mission has always been to make innovative technology more accessible, and this response shows just how powerful that idea can be. Thanks to our community, we’re not just launching a product—we’re helping more people turn their ideas into something real.”
The eufyMake E1 is the first consumergrade UV printer capable of printing 3D textures up to 5mm thick—breaking traditional barriers of cost, complexity, and size. Designed for creators and entrepreneurs alike, E1 is 90 percent smaller than conventional UV printers yet powerful enough to deliver ultra-high-resolution, fullcolor prints on a wide variety of materials including metal, wood, acrylic, and more. More than a creative tool, E1 empowers individuals to personalize everyday items or start side ventures with professional-quality
results. Its one-stop AI-powered workflow, library of 20,000+ templates, and modular design make advanced printing accessible to homes, studios, and small businesses.
Key innovations include: Amass3D™: Advanced 3D texture printing on a wide variety of surfaces, including flat materials, cylinders, cones, mugs and more.
ColorMaestro™: Full-color 1440DPI resolution printing across diverse materials including metal, wood, acrylic, and more.
Modular 3-in-1 Design: Flatbed, rotary, and roll-to-film attachments support surfaces from mugs to metal sheets to largeformat media.
AI Workflow: Automatic positioning with dual laser and camera system, plus intuitive software and creative templates.
Creative Community: A growing library of shared designs and resources to inspire and support creators.
Hotel DreamWorld North EDSA: Where Filipino Elegance Meets Affordable Luxury
who prefer private comfort; Complimentary Wi-Fi, LED TVs, and work-friendly spaces for business or leisure; and Safe and secure parking, plus 24/7 concierge support for a worry-free stay
Whether you’re traveling for work, celebrating a romantic getaway, or taking a quick staycation, Hotel DreamWorld North EDSA offers everything you need to feel relaxed and cared for.
Conveniently located along EDSA, the hotel puts you just minutes away from shopping malls, entertainment hubs, and transport terminals. Yet inside, it’s a peaceful world all its own quiet, clean, and comfortable.
“Our goal was to create more than just a place to sleep,” says Christian Emmanuel Bona, Manager of Hotel DreamWorld North EDSA. “We’ve created a haven where guests can genuinely relax, supported by thoughtful, comforting service designed to feel like a gentle escape from the demands of everyday life.”
Business travelers will appreciate the convenience. Couples will love the ambiance. Families will find space and comfort. And everyone, no matter their reason for visiting, will discover a hotel experience filled with care and character.
Best of all, it’s all within reach. For a fraction of the price of luxury hotels, DreamWorld North EDSA delivers premium features and heartfelt service proof that you don’t have to spend big to feel pampered.
Each Hotel DreamWorld branch offers something unique, but it’s North EDSA that now stands out not just for its stunning redesign, but for its thoughtful blend of city style and genuine hospitality.
Hotel DreamWorld North EDSA isn’t just a hotel. It’s a destination, a place to rest, recharge, and rediscover what a great stay can truly be.
Because here, you’re not just checking in. You’re coming home.
Any season feels in Agos Boracay Rooms +
E’VE
which is closer but fares are way more expensive. Now where is this place that we are suggesting for you to stay? Boracay is divided into three stations: 1 and 2, where most of the expensive hotels are located and 3, where budget conscious travelers go. If you feel like relaxing in four-
Beds
Malaysia’s Twin Catalyst, JMF Enterprises, USTP Partner to Drive Biomedical Innovation, Research
Astrategic partnership between Malaysia’s Twin Catalyst Sdn Bhd and Cebu-based JMF Enterprises was officially launched last July 10, 2025 during a ceremonial signing in Manila. This agreement marks the beginning of the nationwide distribution of the Wondaleaf Adhesive Pouch, an innovative 3D wound care solution, to hospitals and healthcare facilities across the Philippines. In addition, Twin Catalyst has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP), aimed at fostering clinical research and advancing biomedical innovation exchanges between Malaysia and the Philippines.
The ceremony was attended by the Malaysian Assistant Trade Commissioner to the Philippines, Adhwa Azmil, University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP), JMF Enterprises, and Twin Catalyst Sdn Bhd.
“This partnership exemplifies how innovation and collaboration between Malaysia and the Philippines can directly benefit communities in both countries,” said Adhwa. “We are proud to support Twin Catalyst’s entry into the Philippine market and look forward to seeing these technologies improve lives.”
At the heart of the launch is the Wondaleaf Adhesive Pouch, a breakthrough 3D wound dressing engineered for complex and chronic wounds. Crafted from transparent, medical-grade polyurethane, the pouch molds seamlessly to challenging body contours, such as joints, stomas, and pressure ulcers, while maintaining a waterproof yet breathable seal. A standout feature is its resealable system, which enables the replacement of gauze without removing the entire dressing. This not only minimizes patient discomfort and infection risk but also aims to reduce the overall cost and labor associated with long-term wound care.
Wondaleaf Adhesive Pouch has gained international recognition for its potential to transform wound care practices. Its transparent design allows for continuous visual monitoring without removing the dressing. Its effectiveness in reducing exudate buildup, biofilm formation, and maceration directly addresses key challenges in treating diabetic wounds and chronic pressure ulcers. Its introduction to the Philippine market is expected to provide practical, cost-effective solutions for both urban hospitals and rural health units, where access to advanced wound care remains limited.
“At Twin Catalyst, we believe that meaningful innovation must be both affordable and accessible,” said Dr. John Tang, Founder and CEO of Twin Catalyst Sdn Bhd. “The Philippines is a key partner in our regional strategy—not only for distribution, but for innovation as well. Through this partnership with JMF Enterprises and our upcoming research collaboration with USTP in Cagayan de Oro, we aim to co-develop solutions that
genuinely address local healthcare challenges, particularly in chronic wound management.”
“I would also like to take a moment to express our sincere gratitude to MATRADE and the Sarawak Research & Development Council (SRDC), whose support has been invaluable in the development and commercialization of Wondaleaf Adhesive Pouch. Their dedication to advancing research and fostering innovation in Sarawak has played a crucial role in bringing this product to life, and we are proud to have partnered with them in this journey.”
“We welcome this initiative as an excellent example of transnational cooperation in science, technology, and health,” said Dr Ambrosio B Cultura II, the University System President of USTP. “By localizing research and development, we can strengthen our healthcare ecosystem with evidencebased technologies tailored to Filipino needs. Through strategic partnerships like this, we are
Catalyst’s
sees the partnership as both a commercial and humanitarian opportunity.
“Our goal is to bring globally recognized yet cost-effective medical technologies to all areas in the Philippines, especially the rural communities,” said Marini Fernandez, Managing Director of JMF Enterprises. “Wondaleaf’s potential in lowering chronic wound care costs is especially timely as we seek more sustainable healthcare options in the Philippines.” Twin Catalyst, based in Sibu, Sarawak, is best known for its award-winning unisex condom, hammock-style wheelchair, external urinary catheter, and the Wondaleaf product range. The company has received international recognition through the US GIST initiative, Astro Innovathon, Lexus Design Awards, Dezeen Design Awards, and the iAge Innovation Award.
Monza Barcade Celebrates Year One with Full-Throttle Community-Fueled Party
WHAT started as an idea to bring racing culture closer to home has quickly become a go-to destination for racing fans and thrill-seekers in the metro. On June 28, 2025 Monza Barcade marked its first anniversary with a celebration that captured everything they stand for: speed, energy, and community.
Held at The View Deck in Arcovia City, Monza Barcade’s flagship space, the anniversary event was a packed day of non-stop action. Guests enjoyed free sim racing all day, fun trivia and raffle games, back-to-back promos, and a live DJ set that carried the party late into the night. True to form, the celebration also included a live viewing of the Austria GP qualifying session—capping off the day the way the Monza Barcade community knows best.
But beyond the party, the celebration was a look back on a year full of momentum. In just 12 months, Monza Barcade has carved out its own lane in the local entertainment scene. Known as the first concept of its kind in the country, Monza Barcade blends cutting-edge racing simulators with a lively bar and kitchen, serving up bold flavors and unforgettable nights. From casual gamers to die-hard motorsport fans, it’s become a place where everyone comes together for the thrill.
The past year saw Monza Barcade hitting the road, quite literally, with sim racing barcade roadshows
Parentlife BusinessMirror
‘Dayo’ puts faces to 75 years of PHL-Korea ties
PBy Pauline Joy M. Gutierrez
UBLISHED by the Philippine Embassy in Seoul, Dayo
the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and South Korea by highlighting the voices often left out of history: those of migrants.
Filipino workers in Korea. Koreans settling in the Philippines. Students, spouses, professionals, each with their unique journey of uprooting and rebuilding.
According to Ambassador Ma. Theresa DizonDe Vega, Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Korea (ROK), Dayo commemorate the milestone year.
“The Embassy initially had two projects in mind: one that focused on people-to-people ties, and another that would cover political, security, and economic relations. Dayo is the product of our first book project focusing on migration exchanges,” she shared in an interview with BusinessMirror. “Our peopleto-people relations are at the core of our bilateral relations.”
In Filipino, the word “Dayo” means stranger, visitor or newcomer. In the book, it takes on a new meaning—people who have become essential threads in the fabric of their adopted communities.
“From a time of war in the 1950s to a period of reconstruction and development for Korea, to the Philippines’ ongoing journey toward industrialization, the Filipino and Korean people have always been steadfast partners.... This is our acknowledgment of their significance,” said Dizon-De Vega.
According to her, the relationship between the two countries runs deep. The Philippines was one of the first nations to recognize Korea’s independence, and one of the few to send soldiers during the Korean War. In return, South Korea, now a major global economy, is among the Philippines’ top development partners.
“In those seven decades, we have inked over 70 agreements,” she said. “We’ve recently implemented a Free Trade Agreement, become close defense and security partners, and elevated our relations to that of a Strategic Partnership.”
While diplomacy is often discussed in terms of policy and trade, the book highlights the everyday stories that quietly shape international ties. At the heart of these connections are the people who chose to build lives across borders.
For Erlinda Mae Young, the book’s editor-in-chief, the project was both personal and professional. “This is my first foray into diplomatic work, and it’s
AS parents, our instinct is to protect our children— especially in a world where self-expression and safety must co-exist online. Parenting today means raising our kids in a digital-first world, where likes, trends and reels can shape identities more than classroom conversations or traditional role models.
Gone are the days when parenting manuals alone could guide us. In this ever-evolving landscape, we need to walk hand in hand with our children— learning, adapting, and guiding them in both real and virtual spaces.
Recently, I had the chance to attend a panel discussion hosted by TikTok Philippines, where leaders like Hazel Joy Bitaña, deputy regional executive director of Child Rights Coalition Asia, and Peachy Paderna, TikTok public policy manager, discussed how TikTok is supporting teens and empowering parents. The session focused on keeping online spaces safe without stifling creativity. As a mom of teens, I found myself nodding throughout.
“Today’s teens actively use platforms like TikTok not only for entertainment but also for discovery, learning and creative expression,” shared Hazel Bitaña. This rings true in many homes. Our family learns sketching techniques, picks up new dances, and explores psychology and financial literacy—all through TikTok. It is not the app itself that’s good or bad; it’s how we help our teens navigate it.
such an eye-opener,” she said. “As a Filipino, I’m very aware of the sacrifices that migrants encounter when they leave behind everything they’re familiar with— family, customs and traditions.”
But while reviewing the stories, Young realized something that surprised her: Koreans who migrated to the Philippines also faced similar challenges, and that migration, regardless of direction, demands the same kind of strength.
One story that stood out for her is that of Grand Master Hong Sung-chon, the man credited with bringing Taekwondo to the Philippines. Born in war-torn Korea, he arrived in the country in 1975 and went on to help establish the Philippine Taekwondo Association. Over the decades, he trained generations of Filipino athletes and built a nationwide movement from the ground up. “His story of bravery and perseverance is so captivating, it can be made into a movie,” Young said. “His efforts reminded me of my father, Major Maximo Young, whose act of courage during the Korean War earned him a Taegeuk Order of Military Merit, the highest and most prestigious medal that the Republic of Korea awards outstanding military personnel in the world.”
Another story that stayed with Young is that of Katherine Ann Corteza, a Filipina who moved to Korea in 2008 to pursue higher education. She eventually became the Director of the Itaewon Global Village Center, receiving both the Seoul Honorary Citizen Award and the Gawad Geny Lopez Bayaning Pilipino Award.
BALANCING FREEDOM AND SAFETY
TIKTOK acknowledges the unique needs of teens by designing features that help parents support their children’s digital well-being. These include:
n Family Pairing—Launched in 2020, TikTok’s parental supervision tool now provides more flexibility, giving parents and guardians more ways to support their teens’ digital well-being.
n Time Away—Parents can schedule app-free hours that suit their family’s lifestyle, especially during school, dinner, or bedtime.
n Visibility on Followers—This offers transparency on who follows your teen.
n Report Alerts—This feature gives teens the option to inform a trusted adult when they report harmful or inappropriate content.
n Wind Down—This feature pauses the feed of users under 16 with calming prompts after 10 pm. These full-screen reminders encourage rest and reflection, and align with TikTok’s behavioral scienceinformed approach to digital wellness.
“TikTok recognizes that teens deserve special consideration as they explore online independence,” explained Peachy Paderna. “Tools like the Guardian’s Guide and Teen Safety Center help build trust between parents and teens.”
As part of its digital wellness efforts, TikTok is also rolling out Smart Keyword Filtering, allowing users to block content they find distressing or irrelevant.
“[Her] dedication to making a difference in the lives of the expatriate community in South Korea serves as a reminder that when we are in a position of influence, we need to be the voice for everyone, regardless of nationality,” she said.
Collecting these stories, according to Young, was a carefully guided process. The Embassy issued a call for submissions to Filipino and Korean migrants. Once the stories were submitted, they were edited for clarity and focus, then sent back to the contributors for approval.
“We had to make sure the critical details of their migration stories were preserved,” said Young.
But there were some tough editorial choices.
“One of the challenges was condensing the stories into 500 words,” she explained.
“There were so many rich, relatable details, but we had to stay focused on the theme of migration. The stories that are in the book highlight a diverse set of motivations for migrating, as well as the variety of reasons for persevering in the pursuit of their decisions to uproot themselves and build their lives elsewhere.”
Beyond stories, the book also reflects the Philippine government’s broader support for its migrant communities in South Korea.
“In terms of labor, migration and welfare matters, the Philippine Embassy in Seoul...has designed holistic programs for our overseas Filipino community to create what we call an ‘ecosystem of
She then outlined a long list of efforts, from legal support clinics and financial literacy sessions to wellness programs, leadership training, and crisis management.
The Embassy also runs “Eskwelahan sa Embahada,” a summer school for children of Filipino-Korean families, as well as community events like sports days and seminars.
Looking ahead, DizonDe Vega sees even more room for growth in the partnership, especially in areas like green energy, technology, creative industries and smart agriculture. “These areas draw on the strengths and needs of our respective countries in progressing toward [more resilient and sustainable societies],” she said.
And her message to migrants on both sides of the sea? “Our nationals are the best Ambassadors of our respective countries’ history, culture and heritage,” she said. “They will continue to be so for future
Parents and teens can also consult the For You Feed Educational Guide, which helps users understand how content is personalized, so they can curate instead of consume. But tools aren’t enough, conversation is key. Bitaña emphasized that while it’s important to protect teens, it’s equally vital to guarantee their right to express themselves safely and creatively. That begins with an open dialogue at home.
“Parents contribute by discussing online experiences with their teens,” she said. As parents, we don’t need to fully understand every trend or slang
n Model digital mindfulness. Let your teen see you take intentional breaks too.
n Celebrate creativity but talk about the importance of breaks, sleep, and offline time.
n Use Family Pairing as a tool for trust, not surveillance. We also need to teach digital empathy and healthy skepticism. Viral videos can affect your teen’s mood or self-esteem.
THE men and women who contributed their stories to Dayo
ERLINDA MAE YOUNG, editor-in-chief of Dayo
UCI remains extra tough on anything Armstrong
MONT VENTOUX, France—The International Cycling Union (UCI) has objected to the presence of Johan Bruyneel, Lance Armstrong’s former team manager, in staff areas of the Tour de France.
The UCI said Tuesday it had asked race organizers whether they had given Bruyneel accreditation to appear at the Tour’s start village before Stage 12 in Auch last week when he took part in a TV program for the Flemish-language Belgian channel VRT1.
“Bruyneel is banned for life from taking part in any activity related to cycling,” the UCI said in a statement, noting the Belgian national’s sanction by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) “for anti-doping rules violations when he worked with the US Postal Service Pro Cycling Team and the Discovery Channel Pro Cycling Team.” Bruyneel was initially banned for 10 years by the US Anti-Doping Agency in 2014 for his role in doping programs that helped Armstrong to seven Tour de France titles between 1999-05 and provided other riders with illegal performance boosts, but that sanction was extended to a lifetime ban by CAS in 2018 after an appeal by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
While he is free to attend a cycling event registered on the UCI International Calendar—such as the Tour de France—as a regular spectator, he is strictly prohibited from participating in the event in any role or capacity, or from accessing areas that are closed to the public,” the UCI said after Stage 16. “This includes, in particular, areas of the Tour de France
that require accreditation.”
The governing body said it had contacted Amaury Sport Organisation, the Tour de France organizer, to ask whether Bruyneel “was granted an official accreditation, to understand how this could have happened, and to ensure that no further accreditation will be issued to him.”
It said it “will take all appropriate measures.”
In 2014, the US Anti-Doping Agency said Bruyneel, a former rider and team manager, “was at the apex of a conspiracy to commit widespread doping on the [US Postal Service] and Discovery Channel teams spanning many years and many riders.”
Bruyneel claimed he, Armstrong and others were made scapegoats for an era when doping was “a fact of life” in cycling. “I do not dispute that there are certain elements of my career that I wish had been different,” Bruyneel said at the time. “However, a very small minority of us has been used as scapegoats for an entire generation.”
French rider rules climb on Mont Ventoux in Stage 16 VALENTIN PARET-PEINTRE triumphed on Mont Ventoux to become the first home rider to win a stage at this year’s Tour de France, while Tadej Pogačar consolidated his overall lead Tuesday. Paret-Peintre followed former yellow jersey holder Ben Healy on a breakaway and then beat the Irish rider in a sprint for the line at the top of the famed barren mountain known as the “Beast of Provence.” A victory at the Tour is extraordinary, but to do it on the Mont
Ventoux, that’s something completely different,” said Paret-Peintre, a climber and the first French winner on the mountain since Richard Virenque in 2002. “I can’t tell you what this win means for me. I’ll need some time for everything to sink in.”
S antiago Buitrago was third, four seconds behind, ahead of Ilan Van Wilder and fifth-placed Pogačar, who withstood repeated attacks from Jonas Vingegaard to cross the line two seconds before his main rival.
After the Tour’s second rest day Monday, Pogačar stretched his overall lead to four minutes and 15 seconds over Vingegaard.
T he Danish rider won the Tour in 2022 and 2023 but seems powerless to stop defending champion Pogačar from achieving his fourth win when the race finishes Sunday on the Champs-
Élysées in Paris.
“I think w e’ll race until Paris and we’ll see who will be the winner,” Pogačar said. “Today was a proper hard day after the rest day, also for me.”
S tage 16 took the riders 171.5 kilometers from Montpellier in the south of France on a long flat course until they reached the brutal climb up Ventoux.
During the 1967 Tour, English rider Tom Simpson died ascending the 1,910-meter-high mountain after he had taken a mixture of amphetamines and alcohol. Simpson had been unwell and the heat was likely another contributing factor. AP
Tickets to FIVB worlds opening night up for grabs
ALAS Pilipinas showcasing its skills and passion and K-Pop group BOYNEXTDOOR excitingly entertaining Filipino fans all in one night on September 12 will kick off action in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
“It will be one night to remember in the history of world volleyball and the Philippines will be right in the middle of everything,” said Ramon “Tats” Suzara, president of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) and Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC).
Fifty days ahead of the Philippines’ first-time hosting of the 32-nation FIVB MWCH, Suzara said all systems are rolling with tickets to the opening ceremony night now about to sell briskly online through the world championships official website https:// www.philippineswch2025.com/.
“Never in the history of the world championships, men or women, will there be an opening ceremony that will be a concert in atmosphere and featuring BOYNEXTDOOR,” Suzara said.
The Philippines opens its campaign against Tunisia starting at 5 p.m. after which the festive and grand opening follow suit with an expected jampacked SM MOA Arena.
Tickets for opening night are pegged at P14,000 for Patron (Center) and P12,500 for Patron (Back), P12,500 for Lower Box Center, P8,500 for Lower Back Sides, P7,500 for Lower Back Back, P5,500 for Upper Box Center, P4,500 for Upper Back Sides, P2,500 for Upper Box Back and P1,500 for General Admission.
BOYNEXTDOOR’s Sungho, Riwoo, Jaehyun, Taesan, Leehan and Woonhak will be performing their most popular acts as global celebrity ambassadors of the FIVB MWCH which will be played at both the SM MOA Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum from September 12 to 28.
We have carefully reviewed and decided on the selection of BoyNextDoor as a truly pivotal move in elevating the global profile of volleyball and igniting excitement for the event,” Suzara said.
“ With the championship proudly hosted in the Philippines, this
‘Oh, my gosh, I need to improve so much more.’ So it’s all a head game,” Williams said after her first singles match in more than a year and first singles victory in nearly two. The only older woman to win a tour-level singles match was Martina Navratilova, whose last triumph came at 47 in 2004. T he former No. 1-ranked Williams had not played singles in an official match since March 2024 in Miami, missing time while having surgery to remove uterine fibroids. She hadn’t won in singles since August 2023 in Cincinnati. Until this week, she was listed by the Women’s Tennis Association Tour as “inactive.” “I ’m just constantly
would be two weeks where I was, like, ‘Oh, God, it’s not happening.’ Even the week leading up, [I thought],
partnership presents an incredible opportunity to engage fans across the world, with the BoyNextDoor’s unique appeal and dynamic global influence to attract a wider and more diverse audience profile,” he added.
The PNVF and LOC—co-chaired by Presidential son William Vincent “Vinny” Araneta Marcos, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and Tourism Secretary Christina Fraqsco—believe
BOYNEXTDOOR’s involvement and active participation will “encourage increased participation and viewership, both locally and internationally.”
“By unifying the worlds of sports and entertainment, and making these work together as one, we aim to spark greater interest in volleyball, promote cultural exchange, and boost local economy through tourism and international engagement,” Suzara said.
USOPC brass effectively bar trans women from Olympics
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado—The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee
(USOPC) has effectively barred transgender women from competing in women’s sports, telling the federations overseeing swimming, athletics and other sports it has an “obligation to comply” with an executive order issued by President Donald Trump.
The new policy, announced Monday with a quiet change on the USOPC’s website and confirmed in a letter sent to national sport governing bodies, follows a similar step taken by the NCAA earlier this year.
The USOPC change is noted obliquely as a detail under “USOPC Athlete Safety Policy” and references Trump’s executive order, “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports,” signed in February. That order, among other things, threatens to “rescind all funds” from organizations that allow transgender athlete participation in
S Olympic officials told the national governing bodies they will need to follow suit, adding that “the USOPC has engaged in a series of respectful and constructive conversations with federal officials” since Trump signed the order.
As a federally chartered organization, we have an obligation to comply with federal expectations,” USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland and President Gene Sykes wrote in a letter. “Our revised policy emphasizes the importance of ensuring fair and safe competition environments for women.
All National Governing Bodies are required to update their applicable he National Women’s Law
Center put out a statement condemning the move.
“By giving into the political demands, the USOPC is sacrificing the needs and safety of its own athletes,” said that organization’s president and CEO, Fatima Goss Graves.
T he USOPC oversees around 50 national governing bodies, most of which play a role in everything from the grassroots to elite levels of their sports. That raises the possibility that rules might need to be changed at local sports clubs to retain their memberships in the NGBs.
S ome of those organizations—for instance, USA Track and Field—have long followed guidelines set by their own world federation. World Athletics is considering changes to its policies that would mostly fall in line with Trump’s order.
A USA Swimming spokesman said the federation had been made aware of the USOPC’s change and was consulting with the committee to figure out what changes it needs to make. USA Fencing changed its policy effective Aug. 1 to allow only “athletes who are of the female sex” in women’s competition and opening men’s events to “all athletes not eligible for the women’s category, including transgender women, transgender men, non-binary and intersex athletes and cisgender
T
BOYNEXTDOOR’s Sungho, Riwoo, Jaehyun, Taesan, Leehan and Woonhak will make the opening ceremong of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship a night to remember.
Envoys&Expats
GREENER HORIZONS:
Envoy-economist charts bold course for Philippine-Sweden cooperation
JUST like winning the lottery. That is how Ambassador Anna Ferry describes her feeling when she was offered her current assignment as the Kingdom of Sweden’s top envoy to the country.
With burgeoning cooperation, it can be said that the government of the Philippines is just as lucky, as both are charting a new era of partnership, driven by shared ambitions for sustainable development, inclusive growth, and regional stability.
Consider their recent breakthroughs, such as the Swedfund grants for the EDSA Bus Rapid Transit Phase 2, export financing for green projects, expanding Swedish investments, among many others. These underscore the two nations’ drive toward concrete collaboration.
Speaking of latest developments, the European Commission on July 16, through its European Innovation Scoreboard and the Regional Innovation Scoreboard, declared Sweden is the top member-state of the European Union in innovation. The commission also named Stockholm as “Europe's most innovative region.”
On the local front, Team Sweden’s latest market report pinpointed opportunities in renewable energy, digital health, and smart mobility, while companies like IKEA, H&M, and Transcom have created thousands of jobs, highlighting the European nation’s commitment to inclusive economic development.
While laying the groundwork for deeper bilateral ties, Ferry envisions Sweden and the Philippines partnering on multiple fronts spanning trade, sustainable infrastructure, healthcare, defense cooperation, and education that will form part of both governments’ linkages moving forward.
In this exclusive Q&A, Ferry discusses her early impressions, Sweden’s bold plans to support Filipino students and green cities, and how shared democratic values and commitment to the United Nations Charter can strengthen this partnership for years to come.
ENVOYS&EXPATS: Ambassador, how has your stay in the Philippines been so far?
FERRY: I’m incredibly happy to be here. From Day 1, I felt warmly welcomed. Filipinos are open, curious, and friendly, eager to know more about Sweden—which makes my work easier and more enjoyable. Even my husband has adapted quickly—he loves golfing here— and my children are excited to visit.
I’ve traveled to Baguio, Cebu, Bataan, Laguna, snorkeled in Puerto Galera, explored the Pinto Art Museum, and attended events like the Day of Valor and Independence Day, and have sampled dishes from lechon to laing Each experience deepens my appreciation for this country’s history and diversity.
Could you please share some highlights of your past assignments?
I’ve been fortunate to have a diverse diplomatic journey. Prior to my posting here,, I served as Sweden’s ambassador to Peru—that was actually my first ambassadorial post. Before that, I was in India, Honduras, and the United States— though in Washington, I worked at
the World Bank as a senior advisor to Sweden’s executive director on the board. It was a very rewarding role that gave me a deeper understanding of multilateral institutions and development finance.
In between overseas postings, I also spent five years in Stockholm. It’s actually a requirement for our diplomats to return home after being abroad for extended periods. While at headquarters, I continued working in areas close to my specialization.
Would you say you have a particular area of expertise as a diplomat?
My background is in economics, so my areas of specialization are economic policy, development cooperation, and trade diplomacy. I also worked at Sweden’s Central Bank and the Ministry of Finance, and with the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), during my assignment in Honduras.
All these experiences have helped shape a broad, but focused, perspective—especially useful for the work I’m doing now in the Philippines.
What sparked your interest in diplomacy, and what do you enjoy most about this career?
I’ve always been curious about people and cultures. Since I was young, I wanted to understand how countries work together and how diplomacy can create opportunities and prevent conflicts. It’s exciting to build relationships, solve problems, and contribute to development—not just for Sweden, but for the countries where I serve.
Sweden is known for its worldclass education. What makes it an attractive option for Filipino students?
Sweden invests more than 3.5 percent of our gross domestic product or GDP in research and innovation, with 70 percent of funding coming from the private sector. Every year, the Swedish Institute or
SI offers scholarships—this year, 11 Filipino scholars will start master’s programs, and another six were awarded executive scholarships. We’re expanding collaborations with the University of the Philippines and the Mindanao State University through our Luleå University of Technology, focusing on fields like sustainable mining, technology, AI, and medicine.
Filipino professors said they want that collaboration because they have access to laboratories and research facilities that are yet to be established here. Our universities are known for their flat structure and open dialogue with professors, which fosters creativity. Nearly all master’s programs are taught in English, and students can work part-time.
Many Filipinos find it easy to adapt because English is widely spoken, and services are available in the said language.
What do you wish more Filipinos knew about studying or living in Sweden?
That Sweden is a modern, vibrant society where almost everyone speaks English. We love cozy traditions like fika—coffee breaks where ideas flow informally—and enjoy a high quality of life.
It’s also a country where diversity is valued and where students from all backgrounds can thrive. Sweden is a safe, inclusive society, welcoming women and the LGBTQI community. We have worked for decades to improve our equal rights and opportunities for all.
Sweden also has what we call “ livable cities” built for biking and walking everywhere, with close proximity to nature also, so it's very easy for one to go hiking. In wintertime, I dare you to put on winter tires on your bike, otherwise you can travel with public transportation!
That enabling environment has helped foster a culture of innovation among Swedes: For starters, think of Spotify, Candy Crush, and the ubiquitous seatbelts in almost every car—the list is comprehensive.
In fact, Sweden continues to lead the European Union anew in innovation, according to the European Commission’s annual report by way of the European Innovation Scoreboard and Regional Innovation Scoreboard. Our capital city of Stockholm was also adjudged the continent’s “most innovative region.”
Central to your work here has to do with sustainability. Can you share what Sweden and the Philippines are doing together on this front?
Sustainability is a key pillar of our partnership. Swedish companies have contributed to the EDSA Busway feasibility studies in Metro Manila, as well as a similar project to provide easier access from Iloilo to Guimaras province, which are backed by Swedfund grants. We want to help Filipino cities develop smart transport systems with unified payment solutions.
In sustainable mining, we’re working with partners on responsible practices, using Swedish technologies from Volvo Trucks and Construction Equipment, Axis, Epiroc, Sandvik, ABB, and Ericsson, whose connectivity solutions enable safer, automated mining.
Beyond ongoing projects, we’re working closely with the Swedish Energy Agency to develop pilot programs— especially in areas like offshore wind and tidal energy. The Philippines has incredible but underutilized potential in this space. The idea is to launch small-scale pilots with the potential to replicate and scale them nationwide. That model also applies to sustainable mining, where Swedish expertise in automation, connectivity, and safety can make a real difference.
In relation, how can Philippine industries access Swedish technology?
As a new member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Sweden wants to engage more in the Indo-Pacific, and our appointment of Lt Col Anders Nikanorsson as non-resident defense attaché helps facilitate closer cooperation. Regarding defense equipment, our offer of the Gripen multirole fighter jets remains on the table, and our export financing system can support any purchase if the Philippine government decides to proceed.
Our World Maritime University (WMU) in Malmö in Southern Sweden—led by Filipino president Dr. Max Mejia—has over 230 Filipino alumni, many of whom now serve in the Philippine Coast Guard and Maritime Industry Authority or MARINA. This undeniably further deepens our nation’s maritime ties. How is Sweden helping Filipino businesses and SMEs tap into opportunities in your country and Europe?
Open Trade Gate Sweden helps Filipino SMEs navigate EU standards, so they can export more easily. The Swedish government also champions free trade and strongly supports the European Union-Philippines free-trade agreement negotiations. It is worth noting that trade between our countries has grown an average of 3 percent annually for the past 20 to 30 years and is now accelerating up to 11 percent, especially in energy, medical technologies, and food processing technologies.
Swedish technology has long-term benefits: better productivity, safety, and energy efficiency. Our export financing system—via the Swedish Export Credit Corporation (SEK) and Export Credit Agency (EKN)—offers loans and guarantees to make it affordable for government and private companies. Your country has been active in discussions on defense cooperation. Where do things stand, including the Gripen fighter jet offer? Sweden and the Philippines share a commitment to the United Nations Charter and rules-based order, including support for arbitration under the 2016 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS. As likeminded countries, this foundation is essential.
Sweden’s trade official plots sustainability roadmap for PHL
IN recent years, the Philippines has made considerable headway in developing markets.
From renewable energy and infrastructure to healthcare and responsible mining, the country is attracting attention from international collaborators eager to invest in its growth—especially those who see sustainability and innovation as the path forward.
Leading such efforts is Sweden, a country globally recognized for its climate initiatives, technological innovation, and people-centered urban planning. With its ambitious green transition goals and a track record of combining environmental responsibility with economic progress, the Scandinavian country is increasingly aligning its vast cooperation with like-minded partners such as the Philippines.
Engineering this collaboration is the Swedish Embassy in Manila and its trade and investment arm Business Sweden which supports Swedish companies abroad. A key figure driving this bilateral engagement is Sweden’s Trade Commissioner Johan Lennefalk, who believes that his country and the Philippines can both learn—and benefit—from one another.
“We believe that by sharing Sweden’s experience and technology, we can help the Philippines fast-track its development in ways that benefit both the planet and the economy,” Lennefalk said in an exclusive interview.
Partnership built on shared values
SWEDEN’S approach to development isn’t just about trade—it’s rooted in shared values.
“We see areas of mutual interest where we can collaborate meaningfully, particularly in the green transition,” Lennefalk said. “Lowering carbon dioxide emissions isn’t just good for the environment; it’s also smart business.”
Sweden’s commitment to sustainability is codified in law. The country has set an ambitious target of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, with an interim goal of reducing transport emissions by 70 percent by 2030, relative to 2010 levels.
Importantly, these targets have not come at the expense of economic growth.
“Sweden is a living example that reducing emissions and achieving economic progress can go hand-in-hand,” the commis -
Continued from C1
Also, the team of Business Sweden—the trade arm of the Embassy—has traveled to 15 cities across Sweden o ver the past year to promote trade and investments to the Philippines.
In all, it's not just Sweden exporting more to the Philippines, but it's equally important for the Philippines to export more too and diversify its trading partners.
Speaking of traveling, what’s your perspective on tourism between our countries?
There’s huge potential! In 2024 alone, around 23,000 Swedes visited the Philippines. We love to travel, especially during our long winters.
Destinations like Siargao, Boracay, Palawan, and Bohol offer exactly what adventurous Swedes want—but many still don’t realize how much the Philip-
sioner emphasized. That message is one Sweden hopes to share with the Philippines—not just through policy dialogues, but through tangible, on-the-ground collaborations.
Focus areas for cooperation
LAYING out Sweden’s development priorities in the Philippines, Lennefalk identified several major areas of engagement.
Energyandefficiency:The green energy transition is a cornerstone of Swedish cooperation efforts.
“We’re exploring opportunities in offshore wave power, renewable energy solutions, and energy efficiency for industrial operations,” the commissioner shared. “Sweden’s Energy Agency and Innovation Agency are working on pilot projects and fostering an ecosystem of research and development.”
This includes discussions with the Department of Energy and the possibility of piloting energy solutions that can eventually scale for broader regional use.
“The Philippines’ geographic location gives it a natural advantage when it comes to renewables,” Lennefalk noted. “With the right investment and partnerships, you could even become a base for producing green energy technology for export to nearby countries.”
Infrastructure and connectivity: Infrastructure is another key pillar.
“The Philippines allocates around 6 percent of its gross domestic product annually to infrastructure investment,” Lennefalk pointed out. “That’s a substantial commitment and an opportunity for partnership.”
Swedish engineering consultancy SWECO supported the development of the EDSA Busway through a feasibility study funded by Swedfund, Sweden’s development finance institution. That project, now operational, represents a tangible example of Sweden’s engagement in public transport planning.
Beyond buses, Swedish firms are exploring roles in rail and airport development —especially under the Luzon Economic Corridor initiative and key projects like the Subic-ClarkManila-Batangas railway.
“Just like Sweden, the Philippines is an archipelagic country,” Lennefalk shared. “Connectivity is essential—whether that’s by land,
air, or even through telecommunications. And Sweden has a lot to offer in those areas.”
Healthcare and smart cities: Sweden is also eyeing partnerships in inclusive healthcare, particularly in cancer management, where it has global leadership in technologies and systems.
A letter of intent has already been signed with Bataan Province, and discussions are underway to expand access to Swedish health innovations under the banner of smart and sustainable societies.
Smart cities—a model Sweden actively promotes for adoption across the Philippines—are also on the agenda. “In our country, public transport is fully integrated,” Lennefalk shared. “You can buy one ticket and use it on a bus, a train, or the subway. That kind of seamless system is crucial for building smart, efficient cities.”
Swedish companies are keen on replicating this model, combining infrastructure with digital platforms—such as common payment systems and automated operations—to make city living more convenient and climate-friendly.
Responsible mining and tech-
nology transfer: Mining may seem an unlikely focus, given its environmental implications. But Lennefalk believes this is exactly where innovation must step in.
“The Philippines has vast mineral wealth. Sweden has built much of its economic success on responsible mining; we want to help [your country] do the same,” he said.
Swedish companies like Epiroc, Sandvik, Axis Communications, SKF, Atlas Copco, Volvo Construction Equipment, and Ericsson are already contributing technology for safer, more efficient, and even remotecontrolled mining operations. Top officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources witnessed first-hand robotic machinery operating from the surface, minimizing danger and emissions underground.
“There are already mining companies in the Philippines using Swedish equipment,” Lennefalk revealed. “But to maximize its value, we need to build the digital infrastructure— like underground connectivity—and upskill workers for adoption.”
Affordability through lifecycle value
IS Swedish tech prohibitively expensive?
Lennefalk doesn’t deny the upfront cost, but he encourages a broader view: “We have to look at lifecycle cost. Swedish technology lasts longer, is more energy-efficient, and improves productivity. Over time, it actually saves money—and lives.”
The trade commissioner emphasized that financing solutions and technical support can help make the transition more feasible for local stakeholders, as he said that “we’re not just selling equipment—we’re helping build long-term value.”
PHL as a strategic base
THE conversation also touched on supply chains and regional manufacturing. With about 50 Swedish firms currently operating in the Philippines, Lennefalk believes there’s room to grow—especially as companies seek to diversify beyond China.
One example is OSM: a Swedish electronics assembler with a facility in Clark.
“They’re not abandoning other markets—they’re simply looking for new growth opportunities,” Lennefalk said. “And the Philippines is an
attractive, strategic location.” If renewables-related technology takes off, he suggested that the Philippines could even host production hubs for wind- and wave-energy systems that would serve neighboring markets.
Looking ahead FROM integrated bus systems to robots in mining, Sweden is offering more than just advice—it’s plotting a roadmap.
An engineer by training, Lennefalk is optimistic about the Philippines’ future, as he noted the many positive developments here: “The government’s focus on renewable energy and infrastructure is commendable. With the right partnerships, the Philippines can become a leader in smart, inclusive development.” With numerous collaborations already underway and more on the horizon, the Swedish Embassy official expects growing momentum between the two nations.
“We see investments, we see interest, and we see real opportunities in this part of the world,” he concluded. “It’s a very exciting time to be working with the Philippines.”
pines has to offer. The warm hospitality, easy communication in English, delicious food, and stunning nature are all big draws. I’m confident the Philippines can attract many more visitors. About our people, are there many Filipinos living or working in Sweden?
Yes, there are around 20,000 Filipinos in Sweden. Many work in sectors like healthcare. They’re valued members of Swedish society.
If you could share lessons Filipinos might learn from your nation, what would it be? It would be about valuing the importance of democracy, respect for human rights, and nature. Swedes also place a premium on consensus-building, open-mindness and teamwork, which help create innovative and inclusive societies.
On a lighter note, Sweden is
known as a treasure trove in pop music. How will you make it known, say, on a karaoke night among envoys?
I’d definitely sing “Dancing Queen” by our musical treasure, ABBA. But there are so many more modern ones! [Smiles.]
Looking ahead, what do you hope to accomplish during your time as ambassador here?
I want to see stronger educational exchanges, sustainable infrastructure projects, deeper defense cooperation, and increased two-way trade. But also, collaboration in multilateral fora, like the United Nations and the Asian
Interview by Mike Policarpio
TRADE Commissioner Johan Lennefalk presents Team Sweden’s joint initiatives on airport upgrades and rail-network expansion.
THE ambassador with Dr. Max Mejia—the first Asian and first alumnus to serve as president of the World Maritime University in Malmö, Sweden
Thanks to the ‘Madz,’ Filipino folk songs echo in Vienna, Europe’s music halls
VStory & photos by Andy Peñafuerte III
IENNA, AUSTRIA—Now, it can be said: Filipino tunes have resounded throughout Vienna’s historic Musikverein concert hall— thanks to the Philippine Madrigal Singers.
In their recent concert in this capital city, the “Madz” featured an eclectic repertoire that brought nostalgia and awe to their Filipino and Austrian audiences, including “Leron Leron Sinta” and the lighthearted “Da Coconut Nut.”
The acclaimed Filipino vocal group has been conquering Europe since May for their “Sinag” International Goodwill Tour concerts in Russia, Turkey, Greece, Portugal, Spain, France, Belgium, Germany, and Poland. On July 3, they headlined the concert “A World of Melodies” in Austria—their tenth European country on this singing tour at Musikverein: a venue known for hosting classical music greats.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to be here,” soprano Lynette Anne Manaay told the BusinessMirror after the performance. “Our songs reminded the [overseas Filipino workers] of home.”
Aside from local folk tunes, the Madz sang “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika” and “Paraiso” from their choral and a cappella interpretations. They also honored their host-country with a stirring rendition of Anton Bruckner’s “Du bist wie eine Blume” (You Are Like a Flower). The group followed up with the French song “Comme d’habitude”— the melody of which is familiar to the English-speaking world as Frank Sinatra’s My Way.
The selections drew strong, positive reactions from both Filipino and international audience members, many of whom heard the multiawarded ensemble for the first time. Other Madz singers shared their amazement at the warm response.
“For me, the best part was when we announced the songs—Filipinos in the audience gasped, like, ‘Oh my gosh!’ They were excited to hear [those songs because they’re familiar with] them,” shared ensemble member Romina Jose. “They were thrilled to hear songs they knew.”
“It makes us feel even prouder to be Filipinos, especially [that we were at the hall where Bruckner, Brahms, and Schubert performed],” Jose remarked. “It’s like bringing Filipino music to this stage, and that’s something one can only dream about.”
Pulling migrants’ heartstrings THE concert carried emotional weight for many in the audience,
especially for longtime Filipino residents of Austria, with some having migrated decades ago.
For some of them, including Mila Taus-Pangilinan who had been back-and-forth in Vienna since the 1980s, the visiting ensemble brought a sense of home.
“The stirring performance of the Madz at the Vienna Musikverein not only pulled heartstrings, but surely made one beam in pride and say, ‘Pilipino sila! Super galing!’, [They’re Filipino…and superb!” the 67-yearold retiree told this writer.
“They are a reflection of a people who, despite many adversities and struggles, are joyfully resilient,” reflected Taus-Pangilinan. “In any social strata, in any simple gathering, in any important occasion, music dominates the scene and is woven into the very soul of many Filipinos. And yes, we can sing.”
Vienna-based Filipino painter and member of the art collective SIGE Harold Khan was moved by the performance: “It stirred a bittersweet nostalgia, and a longing for the homeland that we carry daily.”
“Their performance wasn’t just art—it was a memory and a legacy wrapped into one,” Khan said. “While performances like this are rare, I believe they are still very significant in representing Filipino artistry and the diaspora in cultural capitals such as Vienna.”
“Filipino stories, voices and artistry deserve to be seen and heard on global stages; Vienna offers a platform for these expressions,” Khan said. “When a Filipino artist shines here, it breaks stereotypes and asserts our presence. It becomes a bridge between generations, connecting us back to our roots.”
Singing ambassadors IN welcoming concert attendees who included foreign dignitaries, Philippine envoy to Austria Evangelina Lourdes A. Bernas was “emotional” and “had goosebumps,” as the visiting ensemble was “one of our very best that we offer to the world.”
“The Philippine Madrigal Singers were founded by National Artist [and Music professor Andrea Veneracion. With a very long history, they] have won all the competitions in the world,” Bernas shared. “[Being] part of the Hall of Fame, there are some
[global] competitions where they are no longer invited.”
“It is only apt that they perform in the best venue in Vienna,” she continued. “For the Filipino community, this is our gift to you.”
No strangers to international stages, the Madz’s current tour expands their role abroad not only as performers, but as representatives of Filipino identity.
“We are very proud to be cultural ambassadors for the Philippines,” Jose shared.
The group recently finished performing in Hungary and Croatia, and will conclude their concert tour in Italy.
“We’re grateful and blessed, because we were given a chance to share music with everyone, not just for the Filipinos, but also Austrians and [every one] all over the world,” Villaflor commented.
For her co-singer Manaay, the impact of their performances goes beyond the music: “It’s good to be an inspiration to everyone around us, especially whenever we share our music. We’re not just cultural ambassadors from the Philippines, but also ambassadors for goodwill and peace.”
Paris in June
THE Madz also delivered a public performance during the Fête de la Musique last June 2025 in front of the famed Panthéon.
Also known as “World Music Day Festival,” Fête… is an annual music celebration during the solstice where the public is urged to play music
in outdoor public spaces and parks all over France, lasting throughout the day.
This year, the vocal ensemble showcased Philippine musical virtuosity as they performed at one of Paris’ most iconic landmarks: the Panthéon. Located at the fifth arrondissement in the French capital city, it was originally built as a church but later converted into a mausoleum honoring the great women and men of the European republic throughout history such as Voltaire, Marie and Pierre Curie, Alexandre Dumas, and Victor Hugo.
Recognized by the United Nations Educational, Social and Cultural Office or UNESCO as “Artist for Peace” for “putting their fame and influence to promote cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue and a culture of peace,” the internationally renowned and multi-awarded Filipino choral group delivered their heartwarming rendition of Kay Ganda… composed by National Artist Ryan Cayabyab and the powerful and iconic song La Mer from Disney’s The Lion King: Circle of Life.
In Valencia, Spain
THE historic city of Valencia resonated with the harmonious voices of the world-renowned Madz as they headlined the 127th Philippine independence day celebration, hosted by the local Filipino community and the Honorary Consulate led by Honorary Consul Manuel Carrión Sánchez.
Set inside the nave of the rich gothic-era style Valencian parish of
Parroquia de San Esteban, the ensemble delivered a stirring concert that captivated the Filipino and foreign audiences.
The singers showcased their signature blend of technical mastery and emotional depth, as they performed a diverse repertoire that ranged from Filipino folk songs to contemporary choral works.
“Their performance not only celebrated Philippine musical artistry; [it] bridged cultural ties between the Philippines and Spain, honoring centuries of shared history,” said Sánchez, as he praised the Madz for bringing the Filipino spirit to Valencia. “[The] Madrigal’s music served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and enduring identity of the Filipino people.”
The concert was the highlight of a set of cultural programs for the celebration of the Philippine Independence that included Filipino folk dances, traditional cuisine, and a showcase of Filipino products on sale, transforming the historic city during the past days into a lively celebration of Philippine heritage. For the Filipino community in Valencia, the singers’ performance was said to be more than entertainment. One of the Filipino audience members said “It was a reaffirmation of cultural pride and a memorable moment of unity, shared with both compatriots and the wider Valencian public. The event made this year’s Independence Day celebration in Valencia truly unforgettable.” With reports from the Philippine Embassies in France and Spain.
US envoy, culinary champs reimagine Pinoy flavors with California Raisins
AMBASSADOR MaryKay Carlson recently teamed up with James Beard Awardwinning food-content producer Erwan Heussaff along with renowned chefs Angelo Comsti and Don Baldosano at a media event to showcase the premium quality and versatility of California Raisins for Filipino cooking. According to the United States Embassy, the product is naturally sun-dried, free of additives, and rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals. It is a “versatile ingredient that enhances savory dishes and adds sweetness to desserts, mak-
ing them a perfect complement to Filipino cuisine.”
“Our shared love for food brings Filipinos and Americans closer together. It’s an honor to be among such talented and passionate culinary champions to celebrate the richness and diversity of Philippine cuisine,” said Carlson during the July 8 media event. The ambassador joined Heussaff in preparing “Steak Frites and Potato Pave with California Raisins and Roasted Eggplant Sauce,” pairing the richness of seared steak with a sauce made from talong or eggplant—a staple in Pinoy house-
holds—and elevated by the natural sweetness of the product. Heussaff also presented an appetizer featuring malasugi —the local term for swordfish, complemented by coconut cream and a California raisins tapenade.
“The Filipino flavor profile blends itself very well to California Raisins in a sense that we love the mixture of sweet and savory,” said the social-media popular food-content producer. “It’s the perfect match for any type of Filipino dish.”
Meanwhile, Chef Comsti’s recipe featured a pan-fried bacoco—a local
term for sea bream, paired with a kusido-style California raisins sauce inspired by the traditional Filipino stew known for its rich, slow-cooked flavors. For dessert, Chef Baldosano
(FROM left) Chef Don Baldosano, food content producer Erwan Heussaff, Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, Chef Angelo Comsti, and California Raisins Southeast Asia Regional Representative Thomas Wee showcase the many uses of the product in Filipino cuisine.
IN their concert A World of Melodies, the Philippine Madrigal Singers performed 19 selections— ranging from musica sacra or sacred music, hymns to folk tunes from the Philippines and India, alongside European classical standards from Europe. Their concert was held at the 590-seater Brahmssaal (Brahms Hall)—the second-largest chamber room at the Vienna Musikverein named after the famed German piano virtuoso and conductor Johannes Brahms.
THE Madz received a three-minute standing ovation after their encore performance of Da Coconut Nut—a playful surprise that stood in contrast to their formal repertoire and showcased their versatility.
SOPRANOS Lynette Anne Manaay (from left), Fillian Villaflor, Romina Jose were left speechless by the rave response of their concert audience. They were left speechless after performing at Musikverein, praising its architecture, acoustics and history.
THE Madz deliver a soulful performance for the Fête de la Musique in Paris.
HONORARY Consul in Valencia Manuel Carrión Sánchez (front and center) delivers his remarks at the 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration, with the ‘Madz’ in attendance.
Japan ambassador attends Arbitral Award 9th anniversary symposium
AMBASSADOR Kazuya Endo of Japan attended a symposium to commemorate the ninth anniversary of the Arbitral Award on the South China Sea/West Philippine Sea (SCS/WPS).
The July 11 event was organized by the Stratbase ADR Institute for Strategic and Interna -
tional Studies (ADRi). The symposium gathered ambassadors to t he Philippines and regional
experts to deliver speeches and exchange views on the South China Sea. It has been nine years since the issuance of the Arbitral Tribunal’s award between the Republic of the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China regarding disputes in the SCS/ WPS. In his speech, Endo reiterated Japan’s opposition to unilateral moves to change the status quo by force or coercion which threaten regional peace and stability i n the disputed waters. He also expressed serious concern about
A stronger future, together
THIS month, I conclude my term as Australia’s ambassador to the Philippines.
Serving in this role over the past three years has been the honor of a lifetime—a time of transformation, shared challenges and meaningful cooperation, anchored by the elevation of our bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership.
claims inconsistent with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS.
Further, Endo shared his strong hopes that the parties’ compliance on the award would pave the way for the peaceful settlement of disputes.
According to its embassy, Japan will continue coordinating with the Asean and concerned countries to maintain a nd strengthen the maritime order based on the rule of law, and to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Talisman Sabre 2025: Demonstration of strategic cohesion in the Indo-Pacific
FRANCE is currently participating in the multinational exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 (TS25), organized by Australia and the United States.
Bringing together nearly 35,000 personnel from 19 countries, TS25 is one of the largest military exercises ever conducted in the region.
In a regional environment marked by growing rivalries, this participation demonstrates the European republic’s determination to assert its posture as a committed actor for regional stability, the defense of international law, and protection of its interests.
Major multinational exercise
FROM July 14 to 27, Australia is hosting the eleventh edition of Talisman Sabre: a joint military exercise with a land focus, conducted in partnership with the US. The bilateral training, which has gradually become multinational, now stands as one of the Indo-Pacific’s most ambitious defense exercises in scale and strategic reach. The 2025 edition will mark a significant evolution in the nature and complexity of the exercise. Nearly 35,000 troops from 19 partner nations that include France, Japan, India, Germany, the United Kingdom, and South Korea will take part. Activities will span large parts of Australian territory and, for the first time, will also be held in Papua New Guinea.
This unprecedented participation, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s independence, symbolizes a key step in strengthening defense cooperation among Pacific island-states and their partners.
GPCCI RTD highlights urgency for unified cardio-renalmetabolic care
For strategic cohesion
THE scenario selected for this edition, focused on restoring Australia’s territorial integrity, reflects a rapidly evolving strategic environment.
TS25 serves as a tool for strategic cohesion among allies and a collective assertion of support for a regional order based on international law and the sovereignty of states.
Following a limited joint participation in the 2023 edition, the French Armed Forces’ involvement reflects France’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, according to its embassy in Manila. France is deploying a wide range of capabilities, underlining its versatility and expertise in key areas.
The French contribution will include elements of the Third Division–notably the Sixth Light Armoured Brigade–operating alongside the French Armed Forces in New Caledonia .
THE German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI), in partnership with the German Embassy-Manila and Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines, convened a multi-stakeholder roundtable to address the pressing issue of cardio-renal-metabolic (CRM) health and
TS25 offers France the opportunity to participate in demanding training across all domains and conflict environments, preparing for current and future challenges ranging from crisis management to the possibility of major engagement alongside allies. The focus will be on high-intensity, multidomain, and multi-theater warfare integrating land, air, naval, space, and cyber capabilities in a coordinated manner such as amphibious landings, airborne operations, and firepower demonstrations, among others.
Commitment to regional stability
THE embassy said that participation in TS25 is of major strategic interest for France.
Combined with other regional deployments and exercises such as Marara 24, Pitch Black, Clemenceau
explore strategies for more integrated and patient-centered care.
“Addressing CRM conditions is not only about clinical treatment, [but of] equity, education and empathy,” the Philippine Heart Center’s Dr. Cherry Sevilla-Arenas said. “Despite growing awareness, many patients
25, Rastaban, and Croix Du Sud 25, France’s involvement in TS25 fits within its Indo-Pacific defence strategy.
In this context, the French Armed Forces maintain a permanent presence in seven overseas territories spanning from the Southern Indian Ocean to the Pacific, with 7,000 personnel deployed. These forces are essential for protecting these territories and ensuring the security of the 1.6 million French citizens living there.
At the same time, France retains the ability to project power from the mainland, with or without the cooperation of partners and allies. Temporary force deployments complement permanent sovereignty forces by bringing additional non-permanent capabilities to the region such as the deployment of elements of the Third Armoured Division for TS25.
At a time when the Indo-Pacific is emerging as a zone of rivalry, with revisionist powers pursuing predatory strategies, France’s permanent presence and its power projection capabilities give it a strategic role. By participating in TS25, France strengthens interoperability with allies and partners, while reinforcing its posture as a committed actor in collective security and the protection of common regional lines of access and communication, its embassy said.
As a historical Pacific nation and resident power, France reaffirms its determination to defend freedom of navigation in air and sea, in line with its multilateral approach grounded in respect for international law and all sovereignties.
continue to fall through the cracks due to uneven access and fragmented systems of care. If we want to move toward meaningful health outcomes, we must align our efforts across government, industry and communities to prevent care fragmentation and ensure no Filipino is left behind.”
This milestone is more than symbolic: it reflects how our two nations have deepened ties, aligned priorities, and reaffirmed our commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous, and resilient region. And as we approach the 80th anniversary of our diplomatic relations in 2026—with the Philippines also preparing to chair Asean that same year—the stage is set for even greater collaboration.
One of the most powerful and tangible expressions of our Strategic Partnership is our growing economic cooperation. In the wake of Covid-19, both Australia and the Philippines have made economic recovery and inclusive growth a national priority—a central pillar of our bilateral engagement.
In the past year alone, we’ve seen a marked increase in economic activity between our two countries. In 2024, Australian investments in the Philippines reached AU$6.85 billion, while exports of goods and services totalled AU$ 7.5 billion. Over 250 Australian companies operate in the Philippines, employing more than 44,000 Filipinos.
Delivering real impact
ACCELERATING this momentum, the Australian government has facilitated three major business missions to the Philippines focused on transnational education, technology and cybersecurity, and one led by the Macquarie Group CEO alongside senior executives.
We also welcomed two Philippine business missions to Australia—on higher education and mining—signalling strong mutual interest in deeper economic ties.
To better inform Australian business and attract investment to the Philippines, we launched a Philippine Business Prospectus highlighting key opportunity sectors for Australian companies: resources, infrastructure, renewable energy, education and skills, digital economy, and agriculture.
And to turn opportunity into action, we established an investment deal team in Manila that has already identified more than 100 potential projects, progressed 26 to the next stage, and connected Australian companies to local partners.
This growing economic collaboration is delivering real impact.
In agriculture—a priority for both governments—Australia is supporting the development of the Philippines’ National Soil Health Strategy to ensure food security for future generations. Australian expertise has helped the four provinces of Agusan del Sur, Bataan, Ilocos Norte and Tarlac analyze and optimize soil health. This has improved crop yields and built climate resilience. Agricultural trade continues to flourish, with Filipino consumers enjoying Australian grapes, citrus, grains, pulses, beef, and chicken.
Investing in people is just as critical as investing in land. One of the Philippines’ greatest assets is its young, dynamic population, ensuring they are equipped for the future
is vital for inclusive growth. That’s why we are working closely with the Philippine government and academic institutions to strengthen education and skills development.
Today, there are 15 memoranda of understanding (MoU) and agreements in place between Australian and Philippine institutions. These partnerships are transforming the education landscape: Don BoscoOne TVET (technical-vocational educational training) Philippines is collaborating with Australia’s Alana Kaye College, Chisholm Institute, and Superior Training Centre to offer Australian-accredited programs in this country.
National University, St. Paul University, and Australia’s online learning platform OpenLearning are developing an AI-driven learning management system or LMS that will enhance the digital learning experience of over 50,000 Filipino students. Philippine Airlines has also partnered with Airways Aviation Australia to upskill the next generation of pilots—developing world-class talent at home and abroad.
Promising future OUR cooperation extends to building a green economy, where Australia is working with the Philippines to drive climate resilience while generating jobs. Partnerships like that of Maharlika Investment Corp. and Australian subsidiary Makilala Mining Co. are promoting responsible, modernized mining.
Meanwhile, Australian firm StB Giga Factory has established the Philippines’ first large-scale manufacturing facility focused on lithium iron phosphate batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy. In today’s world, cybersecurity and digital technology have become cornerstones of our economic cooperation. Through a dedicated MoU on cyber and critical tech, we are sharing expertise, building capacity, and supporting the Philippine government in strengthening its defenses against cyber threats. A separate memorandum on fintech cooperation is helping both countries drive digital innovation while expanding commercial opportunities.
Finally, we are seeing growing interest from both sides in defense technology, with Australian companies well-positioned to support the Philippines’ military modernization advancement. DTC Codan, for instance, is already collaborating with the Philippine government to provide high-frequency tactical communications systems, helping enhance national security and regional stability.
All these initiatives—from agriculture and education to clean energy, cyber resilience, and defence—reflect a broader truth: Our economic relationship is no longer just about trade and investment. It is about shaping a more strategic, sustainable, and future-focused partnership.
Australia invests so deeply in this relationship because our future— our peace, security, and prosperity—is intimately tied to the IndoPacific region. When the Philippines prospers, it strengthens the region as a whole.
Economic power is strategic power. By strengthening two-way trade and investment, we not only strengthen our nations. We shape a region that is more secure, more prosperous, and better prepared for whatever headwinds may come.
JAPAN’S top envoy Kazuya Endo (seated, right) joins fellow heads of missions in a solid display of solidarity in support of the landmark ruling.
