Sentral ng Pilipinas are now required to deploy real-time fraud detection systems, probe financial accounts and temporarily hold suspicious funds as the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA) takes effect.
The BSP issued Circular Nos. 1213, 1214 and 1215, aimed at safeguarding consumer protection amid the growing online fraud and financial scams in the country. Under Circular No. 1213, BSPsupervised financial institutions (BSFIs) engaged in complex electronic products and services and handling high aggregate values of online transactions are now mandated to adopt a robust Fraud Management System (FMS). The FMS must be capable of rapidly detecting, preventing and blocking disputed, suspicious or other fraudulent transactions, including new and evolving fraud schemes involving bots, malware and other sophisticated digital threats. BSFIs are also required to implement a 24-hour transaction pause period following key account changes, such as updates to a customer’s mobile number or email address, during which financial transactions will be restricted unless strong authentication is in place. Advanced security technologies, such as biometric and behavioral biometrics, passwordless
EXTENDS FISH, SEAFOOD
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
THE Department of Ag-
riculture (DA) has extended the issuance of fish and seafood import permits to end-June amid the trickle of arrivals posed by tight timelines and sourcing constraints.
In a statement, the DA noted that only a quarter of the approved importation of 25,000 metric tons (MT) of fish and seafood has arrived in the country. The agency authorized the importation earlier this year.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. attributed the low uptake to overly tight importation timelines and sourcing constraints.
“It’s more of a systemic issue than low demand,” Laurel said.
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
DESPITE announcing 21 more members of the Cabinet will be retained, Malacañang said President Ferdinand Marcos is still not done with his ongoing cleansing of his administration of underperforming and corrupt executives.
In a press briefing on Tuesday, Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin disclosed the third batch of officials whose courtesy resignations were declined by Marcos: Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr.; Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III; Education Secretary Juan “Sonny” M. Angara; Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) Director General Jose Francisco B. Benitez; Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma; Social Welfare Secretary Rexlon
“Rex” T. Gatchalian; Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa; Migrant Workers Secretary Hans J. Cacdac; Science and Technology Secretary Renato R. Solidum Jr.; and Tourism Secretary Christina G. Frasco. Also retained in the Cabinet are Information and Communications Secretary Henry Rhoel R. Aguda; Transportation Secretary Vivencio “Vince” B. Dizon, Public Works Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan; Presidential Chief Legal Counsel Juan F. Ponce Enrile; Presidential Management Staff Elaine T. Masukat; Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Romando S. Artes; Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Leo Tereso A. Magno; Presidential Advisor for Mindanao Concerns Secretary Antonio G. Sariles; Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr.; Bureau of Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio; and Treasurer of the Phil-
ippines Sharon P. Almanza. Bersamin also clarified that Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique A. Manalo, who was part of the first batch of announced Cabinet changes, will be retained at this post until he is officially confirmed as the Philippines’s Permanent Representative of the Philippines in the United Nations. It was earlier announced Manalo was scheduled to leave his post in DFA by 1 August 2025. “These
“The timeframes we set were too short, and many of the approved products were out of season in their countries of origin. It was also challenging for some importers to meet requirements tied to larger volume allocations.”
This move would also provide importers more time to adjust to new guidelines aimed at easing food inflation and improving allocation efficiency, according to the DA.
The approved list of imports includes salmon, cod, tuna byproducts, squid, scallops, octopus, and lobster, which would primarily be used for the food service, tourism and hospitality industries. None of these are locally sourced in sufficient quantities, the agency added.
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
THE national government’s outstanding debt climbed to a new record of P16.752 trillion as of the end of April, on account of increased fundraising sourced domestically and externally.
Latest data from the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) revealed the government’s outstanding debt rose by 11.56 percent as of endApril 2025 from P15.017 trillion in the same period last year.
Broken down, the bulk of the total debt stock is accounted for by domestic debt at 69.2 percent, while the remaining 30.8 percent came from external sources, as the government reduces its exposure
to external vulnerabilities.
Local debt saw a 12.44-percent increase year-on-year at P11.590 trillion from P10.308 trillion.
Foreign borrowings, meanwhile, grew 9.63 percent to P5.162 trillion as of end-April from P4.708 trillion a year ago.
The country’s debt portfolio “remains resilient,” according to the Treasury, as 91.7 percent of obligations carry fixed interest rates, while 82 percent are classified as long-term.
“This structure helps insulate public finances from abrupt changes in interest rates and the market environment,” the Treasury said.
Month-on-month, the government’s total debt saw a modest uptick of 0.41 percent from P16.683 trillion as a stronger peso reduced
the effect of additional borrowings.
Domestic debt inched up by 1.85 percent from P11.379 trillion in March 2025, as the government raised P300 billion from fixed-rate Treasury notes, as well as other government securities.
The strengthening of the local currency also reduced the peso value of dollar-denominated domestic securities by P3.85 billion.
Meanwhile, external debt declined by 2.68 percent from P5.304 trillion as of end-March 2025.
The decline was due to the P124.74 billion decrease in the peso value of external debt owing to peso appreciation, as well as net repayments of P58.28 billion, according to the Treasury.
“The government continues to follow a disciplined debt strategy,
ensuring that borrowings support productive investments while keeping fiscal sustainability,” the Treasury said.
The outstanding debt is expected to reach P20.7 trillion by the end of the Marcos Jr. administration.
The government could see its outstanding debt continue to hit fresh highs in the coming months due to early-year borrowing activities and the need to manage risks tied to global market volatility.
“There’s a need to hedge both local and foreign borrowings amid the so-called ‘Trump factor,’ which has caused financial uncertainty since October 2024,” Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation, said.
This, as United States President Donald Trump proposed import tariffs and protectionist policies that has reignited fears of global inflation and delayed interest rate cuts from the US Federal Reserve.
Despite this, the Treasury said the country remains “firmly on track” to lower the debt-to-GDP ratio by 60 percent by the end of Marcos Jr.’s term as the economy continues to grow faster than its debts.
The country’s debt-to-GDP ratio rose to 62 percent in the first quarter of 2025, after the economy grew slower than expected at 5.4 percent. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/05/09/debt-to-gdp-ratio-rises-to-62-in-q1/).
This is above the internationally accepted threshold of 60 percent, which is generally considered fiscally responsible.
“It’s hard to justify claims that the economy will be booming even at a much later date when the debt-to-GDP ratio is actually increasing,” Ateneo de Manila University economist Leonardo A. Lanzona told BusinessMirror earlier.
“Going forward, the continued growth in the economy or GDP, together with tax and other fiscal reform measures to help further increase structurally tax revenue and other revenue collections of the government; combined with more disciplined government spending, would help further reduce/improve the debt-to-GDP ratio,” Ricafort said.
The government aims to reduce the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio to 60.4 percent in 2025, 60.2 percent in 2026 and 56.3 percent in 2028.
PHL rice stockpile expands by 300K MT as of May 1
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE country’s rice stockpile grew by nearly 300,000 metric tons (MT) in May, with the National Food Authority (NFA) and households recording bigger inventories.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that rice stocks grew by 14.2 percent to 2.37 million metric tons (MMT) as of May 1 from the previous year’s 2.08 MMT. This indicated an increment of 295,480 MT.
“This month’s rice stocks inventories registered annual increases from the NFA depositories by 472.8 percent
Continued from A1
Also considered in the appointment of Lim was his significant contribution to investor protection and market transparency and decades of experience in corporate law, governance, and capital markets regulation, according to Bersamin.
Marcos also accepted the resignations of the Presidential Commission for the Urban
and from the households by 35.5 percent. On the other hand, an annual decrease was noted from the households by 29.7 percent.”
The state statistics agency also noted that last month’s stock inventory was 1.3 percent higher than the 2.34 MMT recorded in April.
It noted that 49.4 percent or 1.17 MMT was stored by households, while 33.9 percent or some 803,440 MT of rice was held by commercial entities, based on PSA data.
The PSA added that rice stocks in the NFA warehouses as of May 1 reached 397,210 MT, accounting for 16.8 percent of total inventory during the reference period.
“In comparison to the April 2025
Poor Meynardo A. Sabili; Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Terence C. Calatrava; Presidential Assistant on Muslim Affairs Almarim C. Tillah.
He also terminated Presidential Advisor for Special Concerns Menandro M. Espineli.
“Well, the assessments about them is that they did not perform up to par. That’s the assumption. So we will just leave it at that,” Bersamin said.
Future changes
BERSAMIN said he will make more announcements
rice stocks levels, increment was noted from the NFA depositories by 14.7 percent. Meanwhile, rice stocks inventory from the commercial sector decreased by 2.1 percent, as well as in the households by 0.3 percent.”
Meanwhile, the state statistics agency said the total corn inventory as of May 1 dropped by 5.6 percent to 671,100 MT from 710,720 MT last year.
Despite this, the corn stockpile last month grew by 2.7 percent from the 653,350 MT recorded in April.
PSA data showed that the corn inventory in commercial entities reached 567,020 MT, while
in the Cabinet in the coming days, which will cover other officials with pending courtesy resignations.
Among the prominent high ranking officials, who have yet to be officially retained in the Cabinet are National Security Adviser Eduardo Año; Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Carlito G. Galvez; Presidential Communications Office Secretary Jay C. Ruiz, and Special Assistant to the President Antonio Ernesto F. Lagdameo Jr.
He said he will also be announcing changes in the leadership of the GovernmentOwned and Controlled Corporations (GOCC) in the coming days.
“We do not know what the GCG [Gover-
the Philippines.”
From January to May, Peza said South Korea was the top investing nationality, accounting for 16.12 percent of the greenlighted investments.
“This surge is largely attributed to the recently implemented South Korea—Philippines Free Trade Agreement [FTA], which has boosted investor confidence and strengthened bilateral economic ties,” said Peza.
Other major contributors are: the United States (4.08 percent), China (3.30 percent), Japan (2.92
corn stocks in households were at 104,090 MT.
“From the same month of the previous year’s level, corn stocks inventory from the commercial sector recorded an annual decrease of 13.2 percent. On the other hand, an annual increase of 82.2 percent was noted from the households,” the PSA said.
“Relative to the inventory level in April 2025 the volume of corn stocks from the commercial sector registered a month-on-month increase of 7.4 percent. Meanwhile, the corn stocks inventory from the households decreased by 17.0 percent.”
nance Commission for GOCCs] is going to recommend, but on our part, as far as the heads of the GOCCs are concerned, we will surely come up with announcements very soon,” Bersamin said.
Bersamin said they will continue with performance evaluations for secretaries and other officials with lower functions in line with the instructions of the President.
“I assure you that this is a very sweeping and thorough evaluation being made by the President and the panel of his choice regarding those who will be continuing remaining in office and those who will be ultimately ousted,” Bersamin said.
“Well, if you are asking for blood, there will still be blood,” he added.
percent), and the Netherlands (2.16 percent). These, Peza said, reflects “continued global interest” in the Philippines. On the industry front, Food and Beverage drew the largest share of approvals at 43.74 percent, followed by Ecozone Development (32.52 percent) and ITBPM (7.59 percent).
Sectors such as EMS-SMS (3.56 percent) and Automotive (1.43 percent) also registered steady investment activity, Peza added.
With the “rising” interest in the Philippines and the “massive” ecozone development in Palawan, Panga said: “We are well on the way in meeting the set targets for 2025.”
unauthorized digital transfers must also be in place, as well as customizable transaction limits for account holders.
authentication and adaptive authentication mechanisms, must also be used.
Digital platforms allowing retail interbank fund transfers and other high-risk transactions must also allow account holders to suspend their accounts and block outgoing financial transactions and prevent unauthorized changes to account information.
“BSFIs should enable customers to manage permissions, allowing them to view, manage and revoke external access to their financial accounts,” the circular stated.
A “money lock” feature that secures a portion of funds from
BSP can probe bank accounts
MEANWHILE , Circular No. 1214, series of 2025, enables the BSP to inquire into bank deposits, e-wallets, credit cards and other financial accounts without being restricted by the Secrecy of Bank Deposits Law, the Foreign Currency Deposit Act or the Data Privacy Act of 2012.
This will allow the BSP’s Consumer Account Protection Office (Capo) to conduct investigations onsite or offsite, examine both physical and electronic records and request sworn statements from financial institution personnel.
The BSP is granted to initiate investigations motu proprio, or on its own accord, even without a prior complaint.
In addition, Capo is authorized to apply for cybercrime warrants and issue preservation orders under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, including requests to preserve or access electronic communications involved in
family, and Embraer E-Jet E2.
“Manufacturers continue to let their airline customers down. Every airline is frustrated that these problems have persisted so long. And indications that it could take until the end of the decade to fix them are offthe-chart unacceptable!” said IATA Director General Willie Walsh.
Last October, the Philippines’s largest airline Cebu Pacific signed a historic P1-trillion deal with Airbus and P&W, ordering up to 152 aircraft. This includes a firm order for 70 A321neo and an option to buy 82 more. The planes are scheduled for delivery starting 2029. The agreement also allows CEB to purchase 50 more planes in the A320neo family. Pioneering flag carrier Philippine Airlines has said it will take delivery of nine widebody A350-1000 jets before the end of the year, which were ordered in 2023. Also, the carrier will receive 13 A321neos starting 2026.
Net profit up 11%
MEANWHILE, IATA projects net profits of its members to reach US$36 billion in 2025, slightly off from its previous prediction of $36.6 billion made in December 2024. This year’s updated projection will be 11.1 percent higher than last year’s net profit. Also, it sees the total number of travelers hitting a record-high 4.99 billion this year, below its previous projection of 5.22 billion, but 4 percent higher than in 2024. It likewise predicts total air cargo to reach 69 million tons, below its earlier estimate of 72.5 million tons, but 0.6 percent more than last year’s volumes.
“The first half of 2025 has brought significant uncertainties to global markets. Nonetheless, by many measures including net profits, it will still be a better year for airlines than 2024, although slightly below our previous projections,” said Walsh. “The biggest positive driver is the price of jet fuel, which has fallen 13 percent compared with 2024 and 1-percent below previous estimates. Moreover, we anticipate airlines flying more people and more cargo in 2025 than they did in 2024, even if previous demand projections have been dented by trade tensions and falls in consumer confidence,” he noted. All regions are expected to deliver collective net profits in 2025.
suspected online scams.
Temporary freeze of disputed funds MOREOVER , Circular No. 1215, series of 2025, permits BSP-supervised institutions (BSIs) to temporarily hold funds subject to disputed electronic fund transfers and set protocols for coordinated verification among financial institutions. Disputed funds can be held for not more than 30 calendar days, but may be extended further only by a court order. The holding and verification process may be triggered by a complaint, flagged by the FMS of either the originating or receiving financial institution or a direct request.
The freezing of funds does not apply to erroneous transactions, most credit card transactions, except when used for electronic transfers through automated clearing houses, and cases covered under anti-money laundering regulations.
BSIs are given one year from the effectivity of the circular to develop and fully adopt the industry protocol.
“BSIs shall be given six months from the effectivity of this circular to adopt such interim arrangements, mechanisms, or protocols that shall be implemented until full adoption of the industry protocol, provided that the temporary holding of disputed funds during this transitory period shall conform with the initial and extended holding periods,” the circular read.
Sectoral leaders call on Senate to expedite impeachment trial
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
ABROAD coalition of sec -
toral leaders, advocates, and concerned citizens
has issued a unified call for the Senate to push forward with the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, warning that continued delays undermine constitutional processes and public accountability.
In a joint statement, 204 signatories—including religious leaders, academics, artists, journalists, student leaders, and activists—voiced alarm over the Senate’s inaction nearly four months after the House of Representatives transmitted the articles of impeachment on February 5.
“We call on the Senate to fulfill its constitutional mandate to
convene the impeachment court and assert its jurisdiction over the case,” the statement reads. “Any attempt to derail the proceedings through legal technicalities must be firmly resisted.”
The groups expressed grave concern over persistent talks that the trial may be shelved due to so-called jurisdictional issues. They stressed that the Senate is constitutionally bound to act “forthwith” upon receipt of the impeachment articles.
Disservice
IT would be a great disservice to the nation if the impeachment trial does not proceed, despite the overwhelming evidence against the Vice President,” the statement declared. “This moment calls for accountability— not compromise.”
The call to action is backed by
more than 22 bishops and clergy from various religious denominations, 34 academics and professors, and 55 student leaders representing universities and youth organizations across the country. Also among the signatories are prominent artists, writers, former government officials, human-rights defenders, and civil society leaders.
The statement pointed to President Marcos as a key obstacle to the proceedings, citing his repeated public opposition to the trial and apparent disinterest in addressing systemic corruption. His overtures for reconciliation with the Duterte family, the signatories said, cast doubt on his commitment to accountability.
“We call on the people to remain vigilant and resist efforts to terminate these historic proceedings. The Filipino people—not the
Dutertes—are the true victims of political maneuverings and unchecked corruption,” the statement said.
The signatories emphasized that issues like corruption, rising prices, lack of decent jobs, and inadequate social services continue to plague the country—and that the trial is a rare opportunity to begin addressing these systemic problems.
Some of the notable signatories include Bishop Broderick Pabillo, Apostolic Vicar of Taytay, Palawan; Most Rev. Gerardo Alminaza of the Diocese of San Carlos; Mother Mary John Mananzan, OSB, of the Movement Against Tyranny; Bishop Reuel Norman Marigza of the Ecumenical Bishops Forum North Luzon; Dean Tony La Viña of the Movement Against Disinformation; Liza Maza of the Makabayan
LTFRB reminds PUV operators: Students entitled to 20% discount
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
AS millions of students return to school this June, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) reminded all public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers—including transport network vehicle services (TNVS)—to strictly implement the 20 percent student fare discount or risk facing sanctions.
LTFRB Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III issued
the warning as part of the Department of Transportation’s “Balik-Eskwela” enforcement drive, citing Republic Act 11314 or the Student Fare Discount Act of 2019.
“I am reminding all drivers and operators that the 20 percent student fare discount is not optional. It is a right enshrined in law, and violations will be met with strict penalties,” he said. Guadiz noted that the discount applies to all land transport modes including jeepneys, buses, UV Express, taxis, and TNVS units, regardless of whether fare is
paid in cash or through digital platforms.
Under the law, first-time violators may be fined up to P5,000, while repeat offenders face the risk of suspension or revocation of their franchises or permits to operate.
The LTFRB said students enrolled in basic education, technical-vocational institutions, or undergraduate programs are eligible for the discount upon presentation of a valid school ID or proof of enrollment.
Postgraduate students and those enrolled in short-term non-degree courses
are excluded from the coverage.
To ensure enforcement, Guadiz said the LTFRB will carry out random inspections and surveillance at terminals and along key routes. The agency is also working with local governments, schools, and transport cooperatives to raise awareness.
“We urge all operators and drivers to comply, and we also call on the public— especially students and parents—to be vigilant. Report violators to LTFRB hotlines or through the LTFRB Citizen’s Complaint Center,” Guadiz said.
Coalition; Teodoro Casiño and Neri Colmenares of Bayan; Bibeth Orteza of Concerned Artists of the Philippines and Prof. Maria Diosa Labiste of UP College of Media and Communication.
Betrayal
PARTY-LIST Rep. Perci Cendaña of Akbayan, meanwhile, assailed Senate President Francis Escudero for the prolonged delay in convening the Senate as an impeachment court, pointedly asking, “Is he afraid of Sara Duterte?”
Cendaña, who endorsed the first impeachment complaint against Duterte, warned that the Senate’s inaction risks being seen as a betrayal of its constitutional responsibility and a calculated effort to shield the vice president from accountability. He slammed what he described as Escudero’s dismissive attitude
toward the proceedings, accusing him of treating the impeachment process as if it were a fleeting trend.
“This isn’t Paris Fashion Week. Convening the Senate as an impeachment court is a solemn constitutional duty, not a seasonal accessory you put on or discard depending on the political weather or one’s personal agenda,” Cendaña said. “It is a uniform of duty worn whenever the Constitution demands it,” Cendaña said. Cendaña pointed to a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showing that nearly nine in ten Filipinos believe Vice President Duterte should respond to the impeachment charges and clear her name. Sixty-eight percent of respondents said Duterte should definitely face the charges, while
DOH proposes declaration of HIV health emergency
By Claudeth S. Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3
OWING to the drastic spike in humanimmuno deficiency virus (HIV) incidence among individuals aged 15 to 25, the Department of Health (DOH) has proposed the declaration of a public health emergency.
“Diagnosed HIV cases are getting younger,” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said, as data from the DOH also showed that newly-diagnosed HIV cases increased by 129 percent in the past 10 years.
“In fact the youngest one to be
diagnosed is 12 years old,” Herbosa said in a video message posted on his Facebook account, as he expressed alarm that the Philippines has now the highest number of new HIV cases in the Western Pacific Region. Based on the data from the DOH, newly diagnosed HIV cases increased by 129 percent or 2.3 times over—from just 21 per day in 2014, to 48 in 2024. There were 56 cases per day from January to April 2025, 44 percent higher than the same period last year.
Wednesday, June 4, 2025
DA to supply ₧20/kg rice to retailers registered under DSWD program
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla & Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) will supply P20 per kilo of rice to retailers that are registered under the Walang Gutom Program (WGP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
In a press briefing in Malacañang on Tuesday, Social Welfare
Secretary Rexlon T. Gatchalian announced that department officials were instructed by Presi -
dent Marcos to coordinate with the DA on how to further reduce incidents of involuntary hunger nationwide.
“Just yesterday afternoon, we
spoke with Agriculture Secretary [Francisco Tiu] Laurel and we will get the list of accredited retailers. These are the Kadiwa ng Pangulo [retailers] and the small agri-coops where our food-poor beneficiaries redeem their food,” he said in Filipino.
He explained that the DA will supply DSWD’s partner retailers with the subsidized rice, which can be availed by WGP beneficiaries. DA said it will provide 490,000 sacks of subsidized rice for the WGP.
“Because if you remember the food credit, it’s P3,000. If the cost of goods like rice has gone down, they can buy more [food items],” Gatchalian said.
Under the WGP, which was previously called the Food Stamp Program, DSWD provides targeted beneficiaries with P3,000 monthly food credit, which they can use to buy food items from its accredited
retailers.
As of May 2025, DSWD said it has 987 partner retailers. of which 899 are micro enterprises, 61 small enterprises, 15 medium enterprises, and 11 large enterprises.
Gatchalian said DSWD is targeting to increase the number of the WGP beneficiaries by another 300,000 next year and 150,000 by 2027.
He said their review of the pilot implementation of the WGP is ongoing. The DSWD chief said they will use the outcome of the study to determine how they can enhance the program, which may include raising the food credit.
“We are looking for enhancements, we don’t have the results yet, and we will also make sure that when that pilot is completed soon, we will also publish what we have learned about how to improve the program,” Gatchalian said.
Marcos approves updated coconut industry devt plan
PRESIDENT Marcos has approved the adoption of the revised version of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), which will last until 2028.
The latest CFIDP, that was drafted to boost the competitiveness of the country’s coconut industry, was endorsed by the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to the President through its Resolution 029-2024.
It updated the CFIDP 20222026, which was approved by former President Rodrigo R. Duterte in 2022.
“The PCA, as the lead agency responsible for the promotion and development of the Philippine coconut industry, shall lead the implementation of the CFIDP 2024-2028,” said Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin in the
“Ang nakakatakot lang napakarami po angatingnew cases saatingmgakabataan. Kapaghindiponatinnapigilanangpagdami
ng HIV aabottayosalampas400,000 people living with HIV,” said Herbosa.
Data also showed that the predominant age group shifted from among 35-49 years old in 2002 to 2005, to 25-34 years old from 2006 onwards.
Ang maganda, magkaroon tayo ng national public health emergency for HIV dahil magtutulong-tulong ang buong lipunan,” he added.
The DOH also encouraged the public to get tested.
“Magpa-HIV test.Itoaylibreatconfidential.
GawinangCombination Prevention Method— gumamitngcondom,lubricants, atPrEP (PreExposure Prophylaxis),” DOH said. PrEP is a medication taken by HIV-negative individuals to prevent HIV infection.
two-page Memorandum Circular 84, which he signed on May 21.
The budget for the implementation of the CFIDP will be sourced from the existing budget of the concerned government agencies.
Last year, the Marcos administration announced it allocated P3.5 billion for a 10-year plan to revitalize the coconut industry through planting and fertilization initiatives.
The 2024-2028 CFIDP is expected to increase the productivity and income of coconut farmers and modernize the coconut industry.
It will address the issues, which were identified in the implementation of the 2022-2026 CFIDP, which includes the implementation of the Health and Medical Program for coconut farmers, overlapping mandates between
the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), and the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), and the PhilMech and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regarding the provision of equipment and construction of buildings.
There was also a recommendation to improve the cohesive inter-agency collaboration and delineation of responsibilities of the CFIDP implementing agencies.
“The revised CFIDP aims to resolve operational conflicts, eliminate redundancies in activities and functions across implementing agencies, streamline processes for greater efficiency and ensure the timely delivery of programs,” the 150-page 2024-2028 CFIDP said.
The new plan seeks to foster stronger collaboration among
stakeholders and improve overall effective program implementation.
Under 2024-2028 CFIDP restructured the six national development programs to seven with the separation of the Training Program for Coconut Farmers and their families from Social Protection programs.
The other development programs were Coconut Farmer Organizations and Empowerment through cooperatives; Coconut Farmers Organizations and Empowerment through Cooperatives; Coconut Hybridization Program; Community-based Farm Enterprise Development: Farm Rehabilitation and Improvement Program; Integrated Coconut Processing and Downstream Products (shared processing facilities); and Support Service Programs. Samuel P. Medenilla
EV faces transport, economic crisis–congressman
ALAWMAKER has sounded the alarm over the growing transportation and economic crisis caused by restrictions on the San Juanico Bridge, blaming the national government agencies’ lack of foresight and coordinated planning for the worsening situation.
In a privileged speech on Monday, Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre of Tingog urged government agencies to move beyond public statements and take urgent, concrete action.
“They need to set up interim transport solutions, fast-track permits, manage port congestion, prevent overpricing, provide basic support to stranded motorists, and ensure our medical and food supply chains don’t collapse,” he said.
Acidre warned that without decisive intervention, the region could face escalating freight costs, delayed transit times, a potential economic slowdown, reduced investor confidence, and even disruptions in national
food and health logistics.
He commended the provincial government of Samar for swiftly mobilizing local stakeholders and the Regional Development Council’s Executive Committee for conducting an emergency meeting to propose initial solutions.
Acidre also recognized the efforts of the business community—including the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tacloban-Leyte Chapter, the Tacloban Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, the Constructors Association, and the Drugstores Association—for actively participating in finding solutions rather than merely raising concerns.
Despite these local initiatives, Acidre expressed disappointment over the national government’s slow and reactive response.
“Let me be clear: The people of Eastern Visayas are not angry because the bridge
Impeachment. . .
20% said she probably should. Only 7 percent said she should not face them at all.
“The public wants a trial. Even the impeached vice president herself has signaled a willingness to face one. What’s stopping the Senate? Is the leadership afraid of Sara? ” Cendaña asked. “The people are demanding accountability. Enough with the delays—it’s time to get to work.”
Cendaña also dismissed Escudero’s claim that the impeachment
is being repaired. We welcome this rehabilitation. What we cannot accept is the insensitivity—the utter disregard—of those entrusted to plan this repair,” he emphasized.
He recalled a May 17 meeting with various government agencies and noted that while some attended and made commitments, it was clear that most were simply reacting instead of leading.
Acidre reiterated the urgent need for a well-coordinated, well-resourced, and time-bound economic mitigation plan, including the immediate disbursement of emergency funds and clear accountability from implementing agencies.
“This is no longer just a regional issue,” he said. “The whole country should pay attention—because the failure to act decisively here could be a preview of what happens when we let planning failures spiral into national crises.”
complaint from the 19th Congress cannot be carried over to the 20th Congress as “pure legal fiction.” He argued that this position has no grounding in the Constitution, jurisprudence, or even the Senate’s own rules.
“The impeachment process is a constitutional mandate, not a legislative bill that expires at the stroke of midnight. Once the House transmits the Articles of Impeachment, the Senate is constitutionally bound to convene as an impeachment court—no ifs, no buts. The delay, and now the flimsy excuses, only add insult to institutional injury,” said Cendaña.
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Lead-safe paints promoted ahead of Brigada Eskwela
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
ENVIRONMENTAL watchdog
EcoWaste Coalition released a list of paints verified to be free from lead as schools prepare for the nationwide Brigada Eskwela clean-up and repair drive from June 9 to 13.
The list includes dozens of paint products from major manufacturers such as Boysen, Davies, Sycwin, Asian Coatings, FH Colors & Coatings, Roosevelt Chemical (Triton Paints) and Treasure Island Industrial Corp., among others.
The certified paints cover a wide variety of applications from wall finishes and primers to traffic markings, wood stains and roof coatings. These have also passed the world’s most stringent lead limit of 90 parts per million (ppm), as established by the United Nations.
The certification process is conducted by US-based SCS Global Services under the Lead Safe Paint program, developed by the International Pollutants Elimination Network (Ipen).
EcoWaste’s announcement reinforces the Department of Education’s standing directive
mandating the exclusive use of lead-safe coatings in all public school infrastructure, as outlined in DepEd Order 4. It aims to protect children from lead exposure, which has been linked to anemia, developmental delays, learning disabilities and other long-term health issues. In addition, DepEd Memorandum 85 underscores the importance of choosing only certified lead-safe products for all repainting activities during Brigada Eskwela.
Although many paint manufacturers already complied with government-imposed restrictions on lead content, only those that voluntarily undergo third-party verification under the Lead Safe Paint program earned certification.
Members of the Philippine Paint & Coatings Association Inc. (Ppcai) have also pledged their commitment to produce lead-free paints in line with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Chemical Control Order for lead and its compounds. Both EcoWaste and Ipen clarified that they do not profit from the certification process.
Stricter rules on cargo forwarding out soon
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs said government agencies are moving to finalize a Joint Administrative Order (JAO) that will significantly tighten regulatory oversight of sea cargo forwarders. This initiative aims to close existing loopholes and secure justice for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have been victims of scams.
Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre of Tingog, the panel’s chairman, said the committee revisited House Resolution 499, which calls for decisive action against bogus and abusive freight forwarders. These operators, often unregistered or unaccredited, have been reported to mishandle or fail to deliver balikbayan boxes, causing emotional and financial hardship for overseas workers and their families.
“They’re more than just packages. They carry love, sacrifice, and a reminder of home. When someone messes with that—when someone abuses that trust—it’s more than a business problem. It becomes a moral one,” said Acidre.
To address these issues, Acidre said the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), together with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC), is finalizing a JAO aimed at tightening regulatory oversight of sea cargo forwarders.
Safeguards
AMONG its provisions are stricter accreditation requirements, the mandatory registration of service contracts, penalties for non-delivery, and protocols for the recovery and release of abandoned boxes. The JAO also introduces safeguards to prevent unauthorized consolidation activities involving OFWs abroad.
“Our goal is simple,” Acidre added. “To protect OFWs and to give them peace of mind knowing that their sacrifices won’t be stolen or taken advantage of.”
BOC Prosecution and Litigation Division, acting chief legal officer. Julito Doria said the JAO draft includes provisions covering OFWs, shipping lines, local and foreign consolidators, and port operators.
Newly appointed Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan emphasized the need to institutionalize a grievance redress mechanism and noted that the agency already has a 24/7 call center, with plans to further strengthen it through collaboration with the DMW. For his part, Acidre then urged these government agencies to approve the JAO before the session adjourns sine die next week.
Meanwhile, Party-list Rep. Marissa Magsino of OFW, who heads the Technical Working Group, outlined plans to rapidly distribute over 5,000 abandoned balikbayan boxes. The group also intends to file cases against those responsible for undelivered shipments and launch a comprehensive campaign to inform OFWs about accredited and blacklisted freight forwarders.
Reintegration program
THE committee also approved the substitute bill and its committee report establishing a comprehensive, integrated, and sustainable reintegration program for OFWs. Acidre said the bill consolidates several proposals and introduces a full-cycle framework that includes livelihood aid, job placement, business support, access to financial services, and psychosocial assistance—starting as early as six months before the OFW returns home.
“Reintegration isn’t just about giving them seminars or token programs,” Acidre said. “It’s about building a future they can look forward to.”
The bill applies to all returning OFWs—whether land- or seabased, documented or undocumented—and places special emphasis on vulnerable sectors such as elderly workers, solo parents, and survivors of abuse.
As the committee wrapped up its work for the 19th Congress, Acidre thanked fellow legislators, government agencies, and OFW advocates for their continued support. He underscored that the challenges faced by migrant workers require sustained attention and action beyond the legislative halls.
“Even as we close the chapter of this Congress, our mission continues,” said Acidre.
Major upgrades set for Iloilo International Airport–DOTr
THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), together with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), is currently mobilizing two key infrastructure projects under the Iloilo International Airport Development Program.
With a combined funding of over P190 million sourced from the DOTr General Appropriations Act (GAA) 2024, these initiatives are aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos and Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon to enhance the country’s transport infrastructure through the Build Better More program.
The first project focuses on the rehabilitation and upgrade of the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB). Major improvements include comfort room renovations, wall repainting, wall cladding, roof fascia cleaning, and waterproofing of three fixed bridge roofs. Upgrades also cover the installation of air conditioning units, new escalators and an elevator, lighted signages, Flight Information Display System (FIDS), gang chairs, and airport trolleys. Fire detection systems will be enhanced, along with corrective maintenance of boarding bridges and repair of the departure conveyor system.
Meanwhile, the second project covers the supply, installation, and commissioning of three 600-kilowatt chillers, ensuring efficient and reliable temperature control within the terminal.
Currently, the airport Passenger Terminal Building can accommodate 367 domestic and 360 international passengers. Upon completion of the upgrades, capacity is expected to increase to 675 domestic and 407 international passengers.In addition to these ongoing developments, CAAP and DOTr have identified several major infrastructure projects scheduled for implementation in 2025. These include the rehabilitation of the Passenger Terminal Building, the asphalt overlay of the existing runway and the procurement of runway asphalt overlay works.
“CAAP and DOTr remain fully committed to enhancing the travel experience of every passenger by ensuring that our airports are safe, efficient, and passenger-friendly,” said CAAP Director General, Retired Lt. Gen. Raul del Rosario.
These projects underscore CAAP and DOTr’s unwavering dedication to improving aviation infrastructure and supporting regional economic development.
Go renews call for stronger mental health interventions as depression cases among youth reportedly doubled in 8years
SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go has raised the alarm over the sharp rise in depression among Filipino youth, emphasizing the urgent need to strengthen mental health interventions, especially in schools and at the grassroots level.
Go’s remarks came in response to a new peer-reviewed study published in Cambridge Prisms: Global Mental Health by Cambridge University Press, which found that the prevalence of moderate to severe depressive symptoms among Filipinos aged 15 to 24 surged from 9.6 percent in 2013 to 20.9 percent in 2021.
The study warned that the trend not only reflects a worsening mental health crisis but also poses serious long-term risks to individual well-being and youth development. Researchers further noted that the increase was already underway before the COVID-19 pandemic, which only worsened existing disparities.
Hindi puwedeng balewalain ang mental health ng kabataan. Sa dami ng problema sa paligid—mula sa social media hanggang sa personal na hamon sa buhay—kailangan nila ng kaagapay na handangmakinigattumulong,” Go said, as he called for more accessible mental health interventions nationwide.
Tandaan natin na ang kabataan ang future leaders at pag-asa ng bayan. Siguraduhinnatinnamaalalayansilasaparaang
Cybersecurity group flags MMDA’s online appeals process for traffic violations, cites phishing scam risks
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
CYBERSECURITY advocacy group
Scam Watch Pilipinas on Tuesday warned of potential risks in the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority’s (MMDA) online appeals process for traffic violations under the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP).
Jocel De Guzman, co-convenor of Scam Watch Pilipinas, said the current digital setup may leave motorists vulnerable to phishing scams, flagging the MMDA’s reliance on QR codes and shortened URLs as the channels for accessing its Traffic Adjudication Division’s online platform. While commending the agency’s
efforts to streamline traffic violation appeals, de Guzman said that failing to display the full, official URL for the platform could expose users to fraudulent websites that harvest personal data or install malicious software.
The controversial NCAP is a traffic enforcement scheme that uses CCTV cameras and digital tools to detect and record traffic violations without the need for on-site traffic enforcers.
Under NCAP, vehicle owners are notified of their infractions via registered mail or electronic communication, and are directed to settle penalties or contest violations through an appeals process.
To streamline the appeals process, the MMDA launched an online platform, which
can be accessed by scanning a QR code or clicking a shortened URL typically sent via SMS or posted on its website and notices. The system was designed to make it more convenient for motorists to file disputes and avoid the need to appear in person.
“This approach can inadvertently facilitate phishing attacks, as malicious actors can easily replicate or manipulate QR codes and shortened links to direct unsuspecting users to fraudulent websites designed to harvest personal information or install malware,” de Guzman said.
To address these concerns, the group recommended four key actions: disclose the full URL in all MMDA communication, avoid sole reliance on QR codes and abbreviated
links, integrate the appeals process into the eGov PH Super App, and launch public awareness campaigns on digital safety. The eGov PH Super App is a centralized government platform developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to provide secure access to various public services, including reporting scams through its “eReport” feature.
“By implementing these measures, the MMDA can significantly reduce the risk of cyber threats and reinforce public trust in its digital services,” de Guzman said. He added that the group is “committed to collaborating with government agencies to enhance cybersecurity awareness and protect Filipino citizens from online scams.”
SC launches burnout scale app to protect judges’ mental health
Takmasapanahonatsakasalukuyannilang mgahinaharapnaisyusabuhay,” he added.
The study analyzed data from the 2013 and 2021 rounds of the Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFS), a nationwide survey conducted by the UP Population Institute. Using a shortened version of the CES-D scale, the study assessed depressive symptoms such as loneliness, poor sleep, and appetite loss among nearly 30,000 youth respondents combined.
As Chairperson of both the Senate Committees on Health and on Youth, Go has long championed initiatives to close the mental health gap, especially in communities with limited access to psychological care while also acknowledging outdated beliefs where mental health is not given priority.
At the heart of his current legislative push is Senate Bill No. 2598, which seeks to establish Mental Health Offices in all public higher education institutions (HEIs). These offices would provide free, professional counseling services and be supported by 24/7 mental health hotlines. The measure aims to normalize help-seeking behavior and foster safer, more compassionate school environments.
“Dapatmaymapuntahanagadangmga kabataan kapag nahihirapan sila. Hindi dapat ikinakahiya ang paghingi ng tulong pagdating sa kalusugang pangkaisipan,” Go emphasized.
Civil groups to ADB: Drop harmful ‘big-ticket’ projects
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
MARKING the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) 20th Asia Clean Energy Forum, civil society organizations urged the bank to stop backing mega energy projects they say threaten communities and derail the transition to clean energy.
Rayyan Hassan, Executive Director of the NGO Forum on ADB, urged the bank to prioritize people-centered and sustainable energy initiatives over profit-driven ventures.
“In an unstable world, a multilateral development bank like the ADB has a responsibility to offer solutions rooted in partnership and sustainability—especially in the energy sector,” Hassan said. Hassan warned of growing risks associated with the bank’s openness to projects involving critical minerals and nuclear energy.
“Both have proven unpredictable and come with grave consequences,” he said. “The bank should not gamble with people’s lives and the environment in pursuit of profit.”
Groups also criticized ACEF, describing it as a platform that legitimizes what they called “false solutions” to the climate crisis.
A key concern raised was the co-hosting role of the Korean Energy Agency, particularly
the participation of the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), a state-owned utility that operates one of the world’s largest coal fleets.
KEPCO was also behind the controversial Naga coal-fired power plant in the Philippines, financed by the ADB.
“This only proves that ADB has no credibility in the clean energy agenda. The presence of big climate polluters like KEPCO exposes how just transition is syndicated by the very actors driving the crisis,” said Philippine Movement for Climate Justice senior executive Ellenor Bartolome.
Moreover, the groups flagged the ADB’s Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM), warning that instead of accelerating the closure of coal plants, the mechanism is being used to channel public funds into private coal operations.
They also questioned the inclusion of entities such as Standard Chartered and OceanaGold in ACEF discussions, citing cases of forced evictions and violations of Indigenous Peoples’ rights linked to these corporations.
To address the problem, groups urged it to make a decisive climate shift by demanding transparency, a fossil fuel phaseout, accountability for coal backers and a rejection of false solutions like carbon capture, mega-geothermal, incineration, and nuclear energy.
By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE Supreme Court (SC) has launched the Judicial Burnout Scale app in a bid to detect signs of burnout among judges which can impair their judgment and decision-making.
In a statement, the Court said the development of the app is part of the SC’s commitment to mental health under the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovation 2022-2025 (SPJI), the SC’s blueprint for judicial reform to address institutional challenges under the leadership of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has described burnout as a workplace syndrome marked by exhaustion, mental detachment from work, and reduced performance.
The Court said the app is inspired by the Guilford-Zimmerman Temperament Survey, which was carefully adapted to suit the Philippine cultural values.
The app was developed by the SC-Governing Council for Mental Health (GCMH), chaired by outgoing Associate Justice Mario V. Lopez, the Chairperson, as part of the SC’s Compassion, Awareness, Education, and Save (CARE) Program.
“This tool not only detects warning
signs of burnout; it will also guide the Court in designing mental health programs, policy reforms, and interventions that promote our judges’ overall well-being,” Justice Lopez said.
“For judges and court staff, burnout can impair judgment, decision-making, and well-being, ultimately threatening the fairness and integrity of the justice system,” the SC pointed out.
The app will be available to judges nationwide through a link sent by the SC which can be downloaded through either Microsoft Power Apps or through their mobile browser.
The SC said it is still working on making
the tool available to all court personnel nationwide. The app was developed by the SC-GCMH with the assistance of clinical psychologists Dr. Arnulfo V. Lopez, Dr. Antero Rosario V. Arias, Jr., and Dr. Joy R. Tungol. Prior to its launch last May 30, the members of the technical working group held a Focus Group Discussion with selected Executive and Presiding Judges on March 20, 2025, followed by pilot testing on April 14, and a trial run on May 8.
After finalizing the tool, the TWG tested the prototype with over 300 judges during the Regional Mental Health Summit held in Davao City last May 23, 2025.
DOJ leads roll-out of Department Circular 20 mandating prosecutors in investigation of crimes
HE Department of Justice (DOJ)
TTuesday led the roll-out of Department Circular No. (D.O.) 20 which tasks government prosecutors to take an active role in the investigation of crimes on the ground to ensure the successful prosecution of criminal cases.
In line with this, the DOJ together with the Philippine National Police, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) launched the Training and Education Program for DOJ Prosecutors Law Enforcement Agents (TEPLEA) in an event attended by key government officials.
The program aims to institutionalize the
cooperation between the prosecutors and law enforcers in the investigation, gathering of evidence and prosecution of criminal cases.
Present in the event were Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, NBI Director Jaime Santiago, PNP Chief Major General Nicolas Torre, representatives from PDEA and PCG.
At least 100 prosecutors and law enforcement agents took part in the training.
“We hope in the next few years that it will become the practice of prosecutors to be with the police even for small crimes,” DOJ spokesman Jose Dominic Clavano IV said in an interview with reporters after the event.
Clavano said at least 1,800 prosecutors and government agents have already
undergone training since D.O. No. 20 was issued in 2023.
“We are looking to expand that program since we are planning to get more trainers and a bigger venue so we can train more prosecutors and law enforcement agents. We want the number to double by the end of 2025,” Clavano noted.
Clavano added that the conviction rate of criminal cases has gone up by 14 percent since the issuance of the circular.
Under the circular issued by Remulla, prosecutors are tasked to take an active role in the investigation of crimes particularly during the case build-up stage . The coordination will include prosecutors providing legal guidance to law enforcers in all planned operations like buy bust, controlled delivery operation, entrapment and application for search warrant from the inception until the termination of the case. Prosecutors are required to certify the existence of prima facie case and reasonable certainty of conviction before a complaint is docketed for preliminary investigation. If there is no sufficient evidence, prosecutors are required to advise law enforcers about the lack of evidence and direct them to submit the lacking evidence. In his speech, Remulla stressed the importance of having an aligned work and principles, coordinate strategies and united efforts for the successful prosecution of criminal cases. Joel R. San Juan
PHL expands poultry, meat imports with new Thai and Taiwanese meat plant accreditations
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE Philippines will have more sources of poultry products after the Department of Agriculture (DA) allowed shipments from two meat plants in Thailand.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Department Order (DO) 8, which authorized the individual accreditation of two foreign meat establishments (FMEs) of Thailand.
Under DO 8, the DA said the two FMEs audited by the Department of Agriculture Inspection Mission (Daim) were found to
be compliant with the country’s quarantine and meat inspection system procedures.
With this, the agency permitted poultry meat, particularly chicken and duck, from Thailand to enter the Philippines.
“After thorough evaluation, the application of two FMEs of the Government of Thailand for accreditation to export poultry meat [chicken and duck] into the Philippines have been found to be satisfactory,” the order read.
The Daim was conducted to assess the veterinary services, animal health, and food safety control of Thailand from December 10 to 17, 2024, following its government’s application for individual FME accreditation.
DILG tells LGUs to brace for ‘habagat’ impact
By Rex Anthony Naval
WITH the “habagat” or southwest monsoon season now in full swing, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has called on local government units (LGUs) to prepare for the impact of the weather phenomenon.
In a memorandum circular, the DILG urged LGUs to adopt proactive measures anchored on the Operation L!sto protocols for hydrometeorological hazards to minimize risks to lives, property, and the local economy. LGUs are instructed to ensure the functionality of emergency operations centers with adequate personnel and equipment, and to activate local incident management teams trained in the incident command system.
The DILG also said LGUs must also identify and prepare structurally sound evacuation centers with essential facilities such as
sanitation, medical aid, and designated areas for vulnerable groups.
These should be regularly inspected and upgraded based on safety standards and capacity requirements.
LGUs are also advised to revise their contingency and action plans based on local assessments of areas prone to floods, storm surges, and landslides.
They should conduct simulation drills and community exercises to test response and evacuation procedures.
The DILG reminded LGUs to strictly implement no-build zones in high-risk areas and to ensure that emergency services and supply chains remain operational during severe weather conditions.
Operation L!sto is DILG’s flagship disaster preparedness program that promotes a whole-of-government approach to resilient local governance.
Meanwhile, Laurel also signed DO 7, which approved the entry of additional meat types from Taiwan.
This, after the Government of Taiwan sought approval for additional commodities, particularly pork offal and skin, for four of its approved FMEs to export into the country.
The Daim team’s assessment noted that the four meat plants were found to be compliant with meat inspection systems procedures for the export of pork offal and skin into the Philippines. The inspection was conducted last November 10 to 21, 2024.
TBy Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
HE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has awarded 2,064 Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (CoCRoMs) to 1,286 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs).
The distribution of CoCRoMs, in effect, writes off the ARBs combined P91.5 million in debt for the 1,378.3 hectares of agricultural lands that were distributed by the government under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.
In return, DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III said that the Aquino administration is expecting the ARBs to harness their CARPawarded lands.
“Condoning their debts from long overdue amortizations is nothing compared to their contributions to our food self-sufficiency program,” Estrella said.
Taiwan previously received individual accreditation of six FMEs as exporter of pork into the Philippines in 2023. Meanwhile, the accreditation of meat plants in both countries will be effective for three years, starting March 12, 2025 until March 12, 2028. Under existing rules and guidelines, exporters to the Philippines are required to secure the accreditation of their FMEs to ship meat and meat products into the country. The accreditation would ensure that an inbound shipment is safe for human consumption and does not pose a threat to the domestic livestock and poultry industry.
“Finally, their long-cherished dreams come true. They can now claim their respective farm lots as their own,” Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO) Harriet A. Loot said for her part. The ARBs who benefited from the condonation program are from the towns of Anilao, Banate, Barotac Nuevo, Dumangas, Duenas, San Miguel, Leon and Alimodian, welcomed the financial relief with gratitude noting that the condonation allows them to redirect funds toward productive ventures including the purchase of farm inputs and improvements in cultivation. The debt relief was made possible through the implementation of Republic Act No. 11953, or the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, which was signed into law by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in July 2023. The law aims to liberate ARBs from the burden of unpaid amortizations
A6 Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Editor: Angel R. Calso
Israeli forces kill 27 Palestinians near Gaza aid distribution site amid rising tensions
By Mohammad Jahjouh, Samy Magdy & Fatma Khaled The Associated Press
RAFAH, Gaza Strip—Palestinian health officials and witnesses say Israeli forces fired on people as they headed toward an aid distribution site on Tuesday, killing at least 27, in the third such incident in three days. The army said it fired “near a few individual suspects” who left the designated route, approached its forces and ignored warning shots.
The near-daily shootings have come after an Israeli and USbacked foundation established aid distribution points inside Israeli military zones, a system it says is designed to circumvent Hamas. The United Nations has rejected the new system, saying it doesn’t address Gaza’s mounting hunger crisis and allows Israel to use aid as a weapon.
The Israeli military said it was looking into reports of casualties on Tuesday. It previously said it fired warning shots at suspects who approached its forces early Sunday and Monday, when health officials and witnesses said 34 people were killed. The military denies opening fire on civilians
or blocking them from reaching the aid sites.
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which operates the sites, says there has been no violence in or around them. On Tuesday, it acknowledged that the Israeli military was investigating whether civilians were wounded “after moving beyond the designated safe corridor and into a closed military zone,” in an area that was “well beyond our secure distribution site.”
‘Either way we will die’ THE shootings all occurred at the Flag Roundabout, around a kilometer (1,000 yards) from one of the GHF’s distribution sites in the now mostly uninhabited southern
city of Rafah. The entire area is an Israeli military zone where journalists have no access outside of army-approved embeds.
At least 27 people were killed early Tuesday, according to Zaher al-Waheidi, the head of the Gaza Health Ministry’s records department.
Hisham Mhanna, a spokesperson for the International Committee of the Red Cross, said its field hospital in Rafah received 184 wounded people, 19 of whom were declared dead on arrival and eight more who later died of their wounds. The 27 dead were transferred to Nasser Hospital in the city of Khan Younis.
There were three children and two women among the dead, according to Mohammed Saqr, head of nursing at Nasser Hospital. Hospital director Atef al-Hout said most of the patients had gunshot wounds.
Yasser Abu Lubda, a 50-year-old displaced Palestinian from Rafah, said the shooting started around 4 a.m. in the city’s Flag Roundabout area, around one kilometer (1,000 yards) away from the aid distribution hub. He said he saw several people killed or wounded.
Neima al-Aaraj, a woman from Khan Younis, gave a similar account.
“There were many martyrs and wounded,” she said, saying the shooting by Israeli forces was “indiscriminate.”
She said she managed to reach the hub but returned empty-
handed. “There was no aid there,” she said. “After the martyrs and wounded, I won’t return,” she said. “Either way we will die.”
Rasha al-Nahal, another witness, said “there was gunfire from all directions.” She said she counted more than a dozen dead and several wounded along the road. She said she also found no aid when she arrived at the distribution hub, and that Israeli forces “fired at us as we were returning.”
An Associated Press reporter who arrived at the Red Cross field hospital at around 6 a.m. saw wounded people being transferred to other hospitals by ambulance.
Outside, people were passing by on their way back from the aid
hub, mostly empty-handed, while empty flour bags stained with blood lay on the ground.
3 Israeli soldiers killed in northern Gaza
THE Israeli military meanwhile said Tuesday that three of its soldiers were killed in the Gaza Strip, in what appeared to be the deadliest attack on Israel’s forces since it ended a ceasefire with Hamas in March.
The military said the three soldiers, all in their early 20s, fell during combat in northern Gaza on Monday, without providing details. Israeli media reported that they were killed in an explosion in the Jabaliya area.
Israel ended the ceasefire in
March after Hamas refused to change the agreement to release more hostages sooner. Israeli strikes have killed thousands of Palestinians since then, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Hamas-led militants killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took 251 people hostage in the October 7, 2023, attack into Israel that ignited the war. They are still holding 58 hostages, a third of them believed to be alive, after most of the rest were released in ceasefire agreements or other deals.
Israel’s military campaign has killed over 54,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were civilians or combatants. The ministry is led by medical professionals but reports to the Hamas-run government. Its toll is seen as generally reliable by UN agencies and independent experts, though Israel has challenged its numbers.
Israel says it has killed around 20,000 militants, without providing evidence.
Around 860 Israeli soldiers have been killed since the October 7 attack, including more than 400 during the fighting inside Gaza. Magdy and Khaled reported from Cairo. Associated Press reporters Julia Frankel and Areej Hazboun in Jerusalem contributed.
Ukraine, Russia agree to swap dead and wounded troops but report no progress toward ending war
By Mehmet Guzel The Associated Press
ISTANBUL—Representatives of Russia and Ukraine met Monday for their second round of direct peace talks in just over two weeks, but aside from agreeing to swap thousands of their dead and seriously wounded troops, they made no progress toward ending the 3-year-old war, officials said.
The talks unfolded a day after a string of stunning long-range attacks by both sides, with Ukraine launching a devastating drone assault on Russian air bases and Russia hurling its largest drone attack of the war against Ukraine.
At the negotiating table, Russia presented a memorandum setting out the Kremlin’s terms for ending hostilities, the Ukrainian delegation said.
Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, who led the Ukrainian delegation, told reporters that Kyiv officials would need a week to review the document and decide on a response. Ukraine proposed further talks on a date between June 20 and June 30, he said.
After the talks, Russian state news agencies Tass and RIA Novosti published the text of the Russian memorandum, which suggested that Ukraine withdraw its forces from the four regions that Russia annexed in September 2022 but never fully captured as a condition for a ceasefire.
As an alternate way of reaching a truce,
the memorandum presses Ukraine to halt its mobilization efforts and freeze Western arms deliveries, conditions were suggested earlier by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The document also suggests that Ukraine stop any redeployment of forces and ban any military presence of third countries on its soil as conditions for halting hostilities.
The Russian document further proposes
that Ukraine end martial law and hold elections, after which the two countries could sign a comprehensive peace treaty that would see Ukraine declare its neutral status, abandon its bid to join NATO, set limits on the size of its armed forces and recognize Russian as the country’s official language on par with Ukrainian.
Ukraine and the West have previously rejected all those demands from Moscow.
In other steps, the delegations agreed to swap 6,000 bodies of soldiers killed in action and to set up a commission to exchange seriously wounded troops.
Kyiv officials said their surprise drone attack Sunday damaged or destroyed more than 40 warplanes at air bases deep inside Russia, including the remote Arctic, Siberian and Far East regions more than 7,000 kilometers (4,300 miles) from Ukraine.
The complex and unprecedented raid, which struck simultaneously in three time zones, took over a year and a half to prepare and was “a major slap in the face for Russia’s military power,” said Vasyl Maliuk, the head of the Ukrainian security service, who led its planning.
Zelenskyy called it a “brilliant operation” that would go down in history. The effort destroyed or heavily damaged nearly a third of Moscow’s strategic bomber fleet, according to Ukrainian officials.
Russia on Sunday fired the biggest number of drones—472—at Ukraine since its full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine’s air force said, in an apparent effort to overwhelm air defenses. That was part of a recently escalating campaign of strikes in civilian areas of Ukraine.
Hopes low for peace prospects
US-led efforts to push the two sides into accepting a ceasefire have so far failed.
Ukraine accepted the proposed truce, but the Kremlin effectively rejected it. Recent comments by senior officials in both countries indicate they remain far apart on the key conditions for stopping the war.
“The fact that the meeting took place despite yesterday’s incident is an important success in itself,” he said in a televised speech.
Zelenskyy said during a trip to Lithuania on Monday that a new release of prisoners of war was being prepared after the Istanbul meeting. The May 16 talks also led to a swap of prisoners, with 1,000 on both sides being exchanged.
During the talks, Zelenskyy said, the Ukrainian delegation handed over a list of nearly 400 abducted children. Russia responded by proposing to “work on up to 10 children.”
“That’s their idea of addressing humanitarian issues,” Zelenskyy said Monday during an online briefing with journalists.
The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant in 2023 for Putin and the country’s commissioner for children’s rights, Maria Lvova-Belova, accusing them
The previous talks on May 16 in the same Turkish city were the first direct peace negotiations since the early weeks of Moscow’s 2022 invasion. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the fact that the two sides met again Monday was an achievement in itself amid the fierce fighting.
See “Ukraine,” A7
PALESTINIANS
a Gaza aid hub, along with three others who were killed during an Israeli strike, as they gather at the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Sunday, June 1, 2025. AP PHOTO/ABDEL KAREEM HANA
THE head of the Russian delegation Vladimir Medinsky, center, speaks to the media at the Ciragan Palace following the Ukraine-Russia peace talks in Istanbul, Turkey, Monday, June 2, 2025. AP/EMRAH GUREL
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The World
Ukraine’s drone attack on Russian warplanes was a serious blow to the Kremlin’s strategic arsenal
By The Associated Press
ASURPRISE Ukrainian drone attack that targeted several Russian air bases hosting nuclear-capable strategic bombers was unprecedented in its scope and sophistication and for the first time reached as far as Siberia in a heavy blow to the Russian military.
Ukraine said over 40 bombers, or about a third of Russia’s strategic bomber fleet, were damaged or destroyed Sunday, although Moscow said only several planes were struck. The conflicting claims couldn’t be independently verified and video of the assault posted on social media showed only a couple of bombers hit. But the bold attack demonstrated Ukraine’s capability to hit high-value targets anywhere in Russia, dealing a humiliating blow to the Kremlin and inflicting significant losses to Moscow’s war machine.
While some Russian military bloggers compared it to another infamous Sunday surprise attack—that of Japan’s strike on the US base at Pearl Harbor in 1941— others rejected the analogy, arguing the actual damage was far less significant than Ukraine claimed.
A look at what warplanes were reported hit:
Russia’s bomber assets FOR decades, long-range bombers have been part of the Soviet and Russian nuclear triad that also includes land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles and atomicpowered submarines carrying ICBMs. The strategic bombers have flown regular patrols around the globe showcasing Moscow’s nuclear might.
During the 3-year-old war in Ukraine, Russia has used the heavy planes to launch waves of cruise missile strikes across the country.
The Tupolev Tu-95, which was code named Bear by NATO, is a four-engine turboprop plane designed in the 1950s to rival the US B-52 bomber. The aircraft has an intercontinental range and carries eight long-range cruise missiles that can be equipped with conventional or nuclear warheads.
Before Sunday, Russia was estimated to have a fleet of about 60 such aircraft.
South Sudan on brink of civil war; airstrikes target civilians
By Joseph Falzetta
The Associated Press
AKOBO, South Sudan—Wiyuach
Makuach sat on her bed in a dimly lit ward of a hospital near South Sudan ‘s border with Ethiopia and rested her remaining arm in her lap as she recalled the airstrike that took her other arm and nearly killed her.
“Everything was on fire,” she said in an interview at the hospital in the border town of Akobo where she was being treated for her injuries.
The bombing happened on May 3 at another hospital in the northern community of Fangak where she had traveled to be with her 25-year-old son while he sought treatment for tuberculosis. A series of strikes there, including several at the Doctors Without Borders facility, killed seven people.
“I ran outside and started rubbing mud on myself to stop the burning,” Makuach said.
Makuach, 60, is just one of the dozens of civilians who aid groups say have been killed or badly injured by airstrikes in recent weeks as South Sudan’s army
Ukraine. . .
Continued from A6
of abducting children from Ukraine.
The head of the Russian delegation, Vladimir Medinsky, an aide to Putin, said Kyiv had made a “show” out of the topic and that children would be returned if their parents or guardians could be located.
Zelenskyy also told journalists that the Russian side said it was ready for a two- to three-day ceasefire to collect bodies from the battlefield, not a full ceasefire.
“I think they’re idiots, because the whole point of a ceasefire is to prevent people from being killed in the first place. So, you can
clashes with militia groups across the country. The army says it targets only combatants, and has not commented on civilian casualties.
“The army displaced us and our families into the bush and that’s when we decided we would fight back,” said Gatkuoth Wie, 24, who was wounded while fighting in northern Jonglei State.
The fighting has led to UN warnings that South Sudan is again on the brink of civil war. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump’s administration is seeking to send to South Sudan a group of eight deportees from Cuba, Vietnam and elsewhere who have been convicted in the US of serious crimes, sparking a legal fight that has reached the Supreme Court.
Many of those wounded in the South Sudan clashes have been transported to Akobo, where the International Committee for the Red Cross has set up a temporary surgical response. Others have been stranded for days by the fighting.
Doctor Bjarte Andersen, a surgeon working with the ICRC, says that the fighting has made it difficult to transport patients
See “South Sudan,” A11
see their mindset—it’s just a brief pause in the war for them,” he added.
The relentless fighting has frustrated US President Donald Trump’s goal of bringing about a quick end to the war. A week ago, he expressed impatience with Putin as Moscow pounded Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities with drones and missiles for a third straight night. Trump said on social media that Putin “has gone absolutely CRAZY!”
Ukraine upbeat after strikes on air bases
UKRAINE was triumphant after targeting the distant Russian air bases. The official Russian response was muted, with the attack getting little coverage on state-controlled
The Tupolev Tu-22M is a twinengine supersonic bomber designed in the 1970s that was code named Backfire by NATO. It has a shorter range compared with the Tu-95, but during US-Soviet arms control talks in the 1970s, Washington insisted on counting them as part of the Soviet strategic nuclear arsenal because of their capability to reach the US if refueled in flight.
The latest version of the plane, the Tu-22M3, carries Kh-22 cruise missiles that fly at more than three times the speed of sound. It dates to the 1970s, when it was designed by the Soviet Union to strike US aircraft carriers. It packs a big punch, thanks to its supersonic speed and ability to carry 630 kilograms (nearly 1,400 pounds) of explosives, but its outdated guidance system could make it highly inaccurate against ground targets,
raising the possibility of collateral damage.
Some Tu-22Ms were lost in previous Ukrainian attacks, and Russia was estimated to have between 50 and 60 Tu-22M3s in service before Sunday’s drone strike.
The production of the Tu-95 and the Tu-22M ended after the 1991 collapse of the USSR, meaning that any lost can’t be replaced.
Russia also has another type of strategic nuclear-capable bomber, the supersonic Tu-160. Fewer than 20 of them are in service, and Russia has just begun production of its modernized version equipped with new engines and avionics.
Russia lost a significant part of its heavy bomber fleet in the attack “with no immediate ability to replace it,” said Douglas Barrie of the International Institute of Strategic Studies, noting that
Moscow’s announced plan to develop the next generation strategic bomber is still in its early phase.
“Ironically this might give impetus to that program, because if you want to keep your bomber fleet up to size, then you’re going to have to do something at some point,” he said.
The A-50, which Ukrainian officials also said was hit in the strikes, is an early warning and control aircraft similar to the US AWACS planes used to coordinate aerial attacks. Only a few such planes are in service with the Russian military, and any loss badly dents Russia’s military capability.
Relocating bombers and impromptu protection
REPEATED Ukrainian strikes on the Engels air base, the main base for Russian nuclear-capable strategic bombers near the Volga River city of Saratov, prompted Moscow to relocate the bombers to other bases farther from the conflict.
One of them was Olenya on the Arctic Kola Peninsula, from where Tu-95s have flown multiple missions to launch cruise missiles at Ukraine. Several bombers at Olenya apparently were hit by the Ukrainian drones Sunday, according to analysts studying satellite images before and after the strike.
Other drones targeted the Belaya air base in the Irkutsk region in eastern Siberia, destroying a few Tu-22M bombers, according to analysts.
Ukraine said 41 aircraft—Tu95s, Tu-22Ms and A-50s—were damaged or destroyed in the attack
that it said was in the works for 18 months in which swarms of drones popped out of containers carried on trucks that were parked near four air bases.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was briefed on the attack, which represented a level of sophistication that Washington had not seen before, a senior defense official said on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive matters.
The Russian Defense Ministry said the attack set several warplanes ablaze at air bases in the Irkutsk region and the Murmansk region in the north, but the fires were extinguished. It said Ukraine also tried to strike two air bases in western Russia, as well as another one in the Amur region of Russia’s Far East, but those attacks were repelled.
The drone strikes produced an outcry from Russian military bloggers, who criticized the Defense Ministry for failing to learn from previous strikes and protect the bombers. Building shelters or hangars for such large planes is a daunting task, and the military has tried some impromptu solutions that were criticized as window dressing.
Satellite images have shown Tu95s at various air bases covered by layers of old tires—a measure of dubious efficiency that has drawn mockery on social media.
The Associated Press Pentagon correspondent Tara Copp and Emma Burrows in London contributed.
100 inmates escape from Pakistan prison after an earthquake evacuation in Karachi
KARACHI, Pakistan—More than 100 inmates escaped from a prison and at least one was killed in a shootout in the southern Pakistani city of Karachi overnight after they were temporarily moved out of their cells following mild earthquake tremors, officials said Tuesday.
Kashif Abbasi, a senior police official, said 216 inmates fled the prison in the capital of Sindh province before dawn. Of those, 78 had been recaptured. No one convicted or facing trial as a militant is among those who fled, he said.
One prisoner was killed and three security officials were wounded in the ensuing shootout, but the situation has been brought under control, Abbasi said, adding that police are conducting raids to capture the remaining escapees.
Ziaul Hassan, the home minister of Sindh province, said the jailbreak occurred after prisoners
television. The Russia-1 television channel on Sunday evening spent a little over a minute on it with a brief Defense Ministry statement read out before images shifted to Russian drone strikes on Ukrainian positions.
Zelenskyy said the setbacks for the Kremlin would help force it to the negotiating table, even as it pursues a summer offensive on the battlefield.
“Russia must feel what its losses mean. That is what will push it toward diplomacy,” he said Monday in Vilnius, Lithuania, meeting with leaders from the Nordic nations and countries on NATO’s eastern flank.
Ukraine has occasionally struck air bases
were evacuated from their cells for safety during the earthquake. The inmates were still outside of the cells when a group suddenly attacked guards, seized their weapons, opened fire and fled.
hosting Russia’s nuclear-capable strategic bombers since early in the war, prompting Moscow to redeploy most of them to the regions farther from the front line.
Because Sunday’s drones were launched from trucks close to the bases in five Russian regions, military defenses had virtually no time to prepare for them.
Many Russian military bloggers chided the military for its failure to build protective shields for the bombers despite previous attacks, but the large size of the planes makes that challenging.
The attacks were “a big blow to Russian strategic air power” and exposed significant vulnerabilities in Moscow’s military capabilities, said Phillips O’Brien,
The superintendent of Malir prison, Arshad Shah, said the inmates fled toward a nearby residential area. According to residents, police later used mosque loudspeakers to alert them to the
a professor of strategic studies at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. Edward Lucas, a senior fellow at the Washington-based Center for European Policy Analysis, called it “the most audacious attack of the war” and “a military and strategic game-changer.”
“Battered, beleaguered, tired and outnumbered, Ukrainians have, at minimal cost, in complete secrecy, and over vast distances, destroyed or damaged dozens, perhaps more, of Russia’s strategic bombers,” he said.
Front-line fighting and shelling grinds on FIERCE fighting has continued
jailbreak and seek help in arresting the escapees.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, who is not related to the prison official, asked the escapees in televised comments to voluntarily return, saying they had only been involved in minor crimes until that point. But he said they could face terror charges if they are arrested by police on the jailbreak charge. Though prisoners have escaped while being transported to court for trial, prison breaks are not common in Pakistan, where authorities have enhanced security since 2013 when the Pakistani Taliban freed more than 200 inmates in an attack on a prison in the northwestern district of Dera Ismail Khan. Karachi has experienced several mild and shallow earthquakes in the past 24 hours, ranging from 2.6 to 3.4 in magnitude, according to the National Seismic Monitoring Center. AP
TU-22M bomber plane flies over Red Square during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade in Moscow, Russia, May 7, 2016. AP PHOTO/ALEXANDER
South Koreans vote for new president following Yoon’s ouster over martial law
By Hyung-Jin Kim & Kim Tong-Hyung The Associated Press
SEOUL, South Korea—Millions
of South Koreans are voting Tuesday for a new president in a snap election triggered by the ouster of Yoon Suk Yeol, a conservative who now faces an explosive trial on rebellion charges over his short-lived imposition of martial law in December.
Pre-election surveys suggested Yoon’s liberal archrival, Lee Jaemyung, appeared headed for an easy win, riding on deep public frustration over the conservatives in the wake of Yoon’s martial law debacle.
The main conservative candidate, Kim Moon Soo, has struggled to win over moderate, swing voters as his People Power Party remains in a quagmire of internal feuding over how to view Yoon’s actions.
This election serves as another defining moment in the country’s resilient democracy, but observers worry a domestic divide worsened after Yoon’s martial law stunt is far from over and could pose a big political burden on the new president.
The past six months saw large crowds of people rallying in the streets to either denounce or support Yoon, while a leadership vacuum caused by Yoon’s impeachment and ensuing formal dismissal rattled the country’s high-level diplomatic activities and financial markets.
The winning candidate will immediately be sworn in as president
Wednesday for a single, full term of five years without the typical two-month transition period. The new president will face major challenges including a slowing economy, President Donald Trump’s America-first policies and North Korea’s evolving nuclear threats.
Voting began at 6 a.m. at 14,295 polling stations nationwide that will close at 8 p.m. Observers say the winner could emerge as early as midnight.
As of 4 p.m., more than 16 million people had cast their ballots. Combined with the 15 million who voted during last week’s two-day early voting period, voter turnout stood at 71.5%. South Korea has 44.4 million eligible voters.
Final pitches made by rival candidates
IN a Facebook posting on Tuesday, Lee, whose Democratic Party led the legislative effort to oust Yoon, called for voters to “deliver a stern and resolute judgement” against the conservatives over martial law.
In one of his final campaign speeches Monday, Lee argued that a win by Kim would mean the “the
return of the rebellion forces, the destruction of democracy and the deprival of people’s human rights.” He also promised to revitalize the economy, reduce inequality and ease national divisions. He urged the people to vote for him.
Kim, a former labor minister under Yoon, warned that a Lee win would allow him to wield excessive power, launch political retaliation against opponents and legislate laws to protect him from various legal troubles, as his party already controls parliament.
Lee “is now trying to seize all power in South Korea and establish a Hitler-like dictatorship,” Kim told a rally in the southeastern city of Busan.
Lee’s positions would impact nation’s direction
LEE , who served as governor of Gyeonggi province and mayor of Seongnam city, has been a highly divisive figure in South Korean politics for years.
As a former child laborer known for his inspirational rags-to-riches story, Lee came to fame through biting criticism of the country’s conservative establishment and calls to build a more assertive South Korea in foreign policy. That rhetoric has given him an image as someone who can institute sweeping reforms and fix the country’s deep-seated economic inequality and corruption.
His critics view him as a dangerous populist who relies on a political division and backpedals on promises too easily.
On foreign policy, Lee has not made any contentious remarks recently and has steadfastly vowed to pursue pragmatic diplomacy. He has called South Korea’s alliance with the US the foundation of its foreign policy and
promised to solidify a trilateral Seoul-Washington-Tokyo partnership, a stance that is not much different than the position held by South Korea’s conservatives.
Experts say there aren’t many diplomatic options for South Korea as it tries to address Trump’s tariff hikes and calls for South Korea to pay more for the cost of the US military presence, as well as North Korea’s headlong pursuit of nuclear weapons. Experts say that has made both Lee and Kim avoid unveiling ambitious foreign policy goals.
Lee’s government still could become engaged in “a little bit of friction” with the Trump administration, while Kim’s government, which prioritize relations with Washington, will likely offer more concessions to the US, said Chung Jin-young, a former dean of the Graduate School of Pan-Pacific International Studies at South Korea’s Kyung Hee University.
Chung predicted Lee won’t be able to pursue overly drastic steps on foreign policy and security, given the country’s foreign exchange and financial markets are very vulnerable to such changes.
Lee has preached patience over Trump’s tariff policy, arguing it would be a mistake to rush negotiations in pursuit of an early agreement with Washington. Kim has said he would meet Trump as soon as possible.
On Monday, South Korean trade officials held an emergency meeting to discuss a response to Trump’s announcement that the US will raise tariffs on steel and aluminum products to 50% beginning June 4. South Korea’s central bank last week sharply lowered its 2025 growth outlook to 0.8%, citing the
See “South Korea,” A11
Mexico’s ruling party headed toward control of newly elected Supreme Court, tallies show
By Megan Janetsky & María Verza The Associated Press
MEXICO CITY—Mexico’s ruling
Morena party appeared to be heading toward control over the Supreme Court, preliminary vote tallies of the country’s first judicial election indicated.
While votes were still being counted for the majority of the 2,600 federal, state and local judge positions up for grabs in Sunday’s judicial elections, results rolled in for the nine Supreme Court positions.
The majority of the newly elected justices share strong ties and ideological alignments with the ruling party, shifting a once fairly balanced high court into the hands of the very party that overhauled the judicial system to elect judges for the first time.
Experts warned the shift would undercut checks and balances in the Latin American nation: The governing party would now be close to controlling all three branches of government, and President Claudia Sheinbaum and her party also would have an easier path to push through their agenda.
“We’re watching as power is falling almost entirely into the hands of one party,” said Georgina De la Fuente, election specialist with the Mexican consulting firm Strategia Electoral. “There isn’t any balance of power.”
A Morena-leaning court and an Indigenous justice SOME of those headed toward election were members or former members of the party.
A number of them, who were Supreme Court justices prior to the election, were appointed by former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, Sheinbaum’s mentor who pushed through the judicial overhaul last year.
Others were advisers to the president or the party or campaigned with politically aligned visions for the judiciary.
Not all of the prospective winners were explicitly aligned with Morena. One standout was Hugo Aguilar Ortiz, an Indigenous lawyer from the southern state of Oaxaca. He has no clear party affiliation,
though Sheinbaum said repeatedly she hoped to have an Indigenous judge on the court.
A political controversy
THAT Morena would emerge from the election with control of the judiciary was what critics had feared.
The vote came after months of fierce debate, prompted when López Obrador and the party jammed through the reforms for judges to be elected instead of being appointed based on merits. The overhaul will notably limit the Supreme Court as a counterweight to the president.
Critics say the judicial reform was an attempt to take advantage of high popularity levels to stack courts in favor of the party. Sheinbaum and her mentor have insisted that electing judges will root out corruption in a system most Mexicans agree is broken.
“Whoever says that there is authoritarianism in Mexico is lying,” Sheinbaum said during the vote. “Mexico is a country that is only becoming more free, just and democratic because that is the will of the people.”
The elections were marred by low participation—about 13%—and confusion by voters who struggled to understand the new voting system, something opponents quickly latched onto as a failure.
De la Fuente said Morena is likely to use its new lack of counterweight in the high court to push through rounds of reforms, including electoral changes.
Late Monday, more than 85% of the ballots had been tallied and counting was to continue overnight.
The leading Supreme Court candidates: n Hugo Aguilar Ortiz was the big surprise from the election. The Indigenous lawyer led all vote-getters, including several sitting Supreme Court justices. He’s known as a legal activist fighting for the rights of Indigenous Mexicans and has criticized corruption in the judiciary.
n Lenia Batres was already a Supreme Court justice and was appointed by López Obrador. Previously a congresswoman, she’s a member of Morena and clearly an ally of Mexico’s president.
See “Mexico,” A11
UN assembly elects Germany’s ex-foreign minister as next president after Russia demands secret vote
By Edith M. Lederer The Associated Press
UNITED NATIONS—The
UN General Assembly overwhelmingly elected Germany’s former foreign minister Annalena Baerbock to be the next head of the 193-member world body in a secret-ballot vote demanded by Russia.
Baerbock got 167 votes, almost double the 88 votes needed to win, while high-ranking German diplomat Helga Schmid received 7 votes as a write-in and 14 countries abstained.
Germany had nominated Schmid for the assembly presidency but replaced her with Baerbock after she lost her job as the country’s foreign affairs chief in the recent election. The decision drew some criticism in Germany. When Baerbock appeared before the assembly to discuss her candidacy on May 15, Russia’s deputy UN ambassador Dmitry Polyansky lashed into her, saying: “Ms. Baerbock has repeatedly proved her incompetence, extreme bias and lack of understanding of the basic principles of diplomacy.”
Polyansky accused her of having pursued an “anti-Russia policy,” which he said gave Russia reason to doubt that as General Assembly president she would be “able to act in the interests of peace and dialogue.”
Baerbock brushed off Russia’s request for a secret ballot.
“I am grateful…the overwhelming majority of member states have voted in favor of my candidacy and I’m looking forward to work with all member states together in these challenging times,” she said.
Baerbock will replace current assembly president Philemon Yang, a former prime minister of Cameroon, at the start of the 80th session in September. She will preside over the annual gathering of world leaders in late September and anniversary events marking the founding of the United Nations in 1945.
The one-year presidency of the General Assembly rotates by region.
The assembly, which is the UN’s most representative body, has taken the spotlight in reacting to the wars in Ukraine and Gaza. That’s because any action by the UN Security Council has been blocked by the veto power of
Russia on Ukraine and the United States on Gaza.
Baerbock said in her acceptance speech that the theme of her presidency will be “Better Together,” stressing that the world is “walking on a tightrope of uncertainty”
in very challenging times. The birth of the United Nations on the ashes of World War II “reminds us: We have lived through difficult times before,” she said. “And it is up to us to take up these challenges.”
Baerbock pointed to more than 120 armed conflicts around the world today as another reminder that the UN’s primary mission, “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war,” remains unaccomplished.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Baerbock will take the presidency as the world faces not only “conflicts, climate catastrophe, poverty and inequality” but divisions and mistrust.
“Aid and development funding are drying up, and our institutions and structures still reflect the world of yesterday, not a vision of tomorrow,” he said. “This is a moment for us to unite, to forge common solutions, and to take action to confront these challenges.”
Nawrocki’s win turns Poland toward nationalism and casts doubt on Tusk’s centrist government
By Vanessa Gera The Associated Press
ARSAW, Poland—Conservative
WKarol Nawrocki’s victory in Poland’s weekend presidential runoff has set the country on a more nationalist course—and cast doubt on the viability of the centrist government of Prime Minister Donald Tusk after the defeat of his liberal ally. Nawrocki, who was supported by US President Donald Trump, won 50.89% of votes in a very tight race against Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, who received 49.11%, according to the final results of Sunday’s runoff published Monday morning.
By evening, Tusk said he would ask parliament to hold a vote of confidence in his coalition government, a fragile multiparty alliance that includes left-wingers, centrists and agrarian conservatives. Tusk’s government exists separately from the presidency, but the president holds power to veto laws, and Nawrocki’s win will make it extremely difficult for Tusk to press his pro-European agenda. The race revealed deep divisions in the country along the eastern flank of NATO and the European Union.
The result leaves Tusk politically wounded, and there are questions about whether his coalition can survive to the end of its term in late 2027. There were already
calls on Monday from political opponents for him to step down.
Tusk said in a video posted to social media that there’s a lot of work for the government to do, and its first test would be the vote of confidence held in “the near future.” If Tusk survives the confidence vote, it would show he still has a mandate to govern.
He also said he was prepared to work with Nawrocki if the willingness is there.
“I want everyone to see—including our opponents, at home and abroad—that we are ready for this situation, that we understand the gravity of the moment, and that we do not intend to back down, not even a step,” he said.
Nawrocki thanks his voters
IN his first public comments since his win was announced, Nawrocki thanked those who voted for him and said he would work for the causes that matter to them.
“We want to live in a safe country with a strong economy, one that cares for the most vulnerable. A country that matters in international, European, and transatlantic relations. A country that cherishes its centuries-old traditions and respects its history,” he wrote on social media.
Nawrocki’s supporters describe him as the embodiment of traditional, patriotic values. Those who oppose secular trends, including LGBTQ+ visibility, have embraced him, viewing him as a reflection of the
values they grew up with.
Most day-to-day power in the Polish political system rests with a prime minister chosen by the parliament. However, the president’s role isn’t merely ceremonial. The office also holds the power to influence foreign policy.
Nawrocki will succeed Andrzej Duda, a conservative whose second and final term ends on Aug. 6.
Trzaskowski conceded defeat and congratulated Nawrocki. “I fought for us to build a strong, safe, honest, and empathetic Poland together,” he wrote on social media. “I’m sorry I wasn’t able to convince the majority of citizens of my vision for Poland.”
Congratulations from Trump, Zelenskyy, Orbán UKRAINIAN President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was among the leaders offering congratulations to Nawrocki, an acknowledgment of Poland’s key role as a neighbor, ally and hub for Western weapons sent to Kyiv. He called Poland “a pillar of regional and European security.”
Trump exulted Nawrocki’s victory.
“Congratulations Poland, you picked a WINNER!” he said on his social media platform Truth Social.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also congratulated Nawrocki, saying in a statement, “The Polish people have See “Nawrocki,” A11
ANNALENA BAERBOCK of Germany addresses the United Nations General Assembly after she was elected as president of the 80th session of the body, Monday, June 2, 2025. AP/RICHARD DREW
Trump’s tariffs trigger global economic crisis, OECD warns
By William Horobin
DONALD TRUMP’S combative trade policies have tipped the world economy into a downturn, with the US among the hardest hit, the OECD said.
T he Paris-based organization slashed its global forecasts for the second time this year, citing the impact of the American president’s tariff onslaught.
The combination of trade barriers and uncertainty are hitting confidence and holding back investment, it said, while also warning that protectionism is adding to inflationary pressures.
The OECD now forecasts global economic growth to slow to 2.9% this year from 3.3% in 2024. It expects the rate of expansion in the US will tumble further, to 1.6% from 2.8%—an outlook that is significantly lower than its projection in March.
“Weakened economic prospects will be felt around the world, with almost no exception,” Chief Economist Alvaro Pereira said. “Lower growth and less trade will hit incomes and slow job growth.”
The assessment indicates how Trump’s policies have become the most pressing problem for the global economy, with no easy solution in sight. The situation could yet be exacerbated by retaliation from US trading partners, a further erosion of confidence, or another bout of repricing on financial markets, the OECD said.
The club of 38 rich countries published its forecasts just as its members’ ministers convene in Paris for an annual meeting.
Top commerce officials are expected there include US trade representative Jamieson Greer and EU trade commissioner Maros Sefcovic. Lin Feng, a representative from China’s Ministry of Commerce, is also scheduled to attend.
“Agreements to ease trade tensions and lower tariffs and other trade barriers will be instrumental to revive growth and
investment and avoid rising prices,” the OECD said. “This is by far the most important policy priority.”
Yet the organization also said that even if Trump reversed course on tariffs, the bonus in terms of growth and reduced inflation would not materialize immediately, due to a persistent drag from heightened uncertainty over policy.
F or the US, the OECD said curbs on immigration and a sizable reduction in the federal workforce add to the trade-related drag on the economy. It also cautioned that the budget deficit will expand further as the effect of weaker economic activity will more than offset spending cuts and revenues from tariffs.
“The main headwinds are lower export growth as a result of retaliatory measures from trading partners, the impact of high policy uncertainty, and a marked slowdown in net immigration,” OECD Secretary General Mathias Cormann told reporters on Tuesday.
Inflation in the US will also move higher this year, making it likely that the Federal Reserve will not resume easing policy until 2026, according to the OECD. That process may even be derailed if consumer-price expectations get deanchored, it added.
F or other central banks, the OECD also urged continued vigilance. While it expects inflation to ease to their targets in 2026, that process will now take longer, and the pace of price increases may even increase before easing again, it said.
Besides the fallout from global trade, the organization also warned that fiscal risks are intensifying around the world, with “tremendous” pressures for more spending on defense, climate and aging populations. It called for governments to reduce non-essential spending and raise revenues by broadening tax bases. With assistance from Jana Randow/Bloomberg
Starmer torn between Donald Trump and Labour on UK defense overhaul
By Alex Wickham & Ellen Milligan
KEIR STARMER’S revamp of defense policy intended to show both Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin that Britain is serious about maintaining its role as a key power in Europe and NATO.
But the prime minister’s failure to explain how and when he’ll find billions of pounds of extra spending to pay for the new weapons and personnel left him facing doubts about the UK’s commitment to follow through. Starmer’s plans must also survive rising pressure from Labour lawmakers, who want to prioritize domestic issues blowing back on the left-leaning party at the ballot box, such as controversial benefit cuts.
The UK government on Monday released a long-awaited blueprint to move the country’s depleted military to a position of “war-fighting readiness.” Among other things, the Strategic Defense Review called for building as many as a dozen new attack submarines as part of the AUKUS partnership with Australia and the US, invest £15 billion ($20 billion) in nuclear warhead development and expanding domestic production of drones, munitions and long-range missiles.
Still, Starmer has repeatedly sidestepped questions about when he’ll firm up his “ambition” to expand defense spending to 3% of economic output in the next Parliament, compared with 2.3% now
and a planned 2.5% in two years’ time. That risks undermining UK leadership on European security issues, with NATO leaders expecting to commit later this month in the Hague to an expenditure target of 3.5% to appease Trump’s demands on the alliance.
“The key question remains: what’s the planned pathway from 2.5% in 2027 to 3% in 2034, itself short of a likely new NATO target?” said John Foreman, former UK defense attaché to Moscow and Kyiv. “Without that, any plans are worthless.”
Starmer is vying to reverse decades of decline in the British military as Whitehall policymakers directed resources toward health and social programs while enjoying the protection of the US nuclear umbrella. The UK’s inability to credibly defend its interests at home and abroad led then-Defense Secretary Ben Wallace, a Conservative, to declare that the military had been “hollowed out” since the end of the Cold War.
The last defense review—drafted under former Prime Minister Boris Johnson in 2021—was more fo -
cused on force projection and naval power, with a shift toward the IndoPacific. Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and Trump’s return to power upended those plans, forcing the UK to turn its attention to security concerns closer to home.
Since taking power last year, Starmer has sought to put the UK at the heart of European security, helping forge a “coalition of the willing” of nations supporting Ukraine and striking a defense pact with Brussels. For the Labour leader, who opposed leaving the EU, it was a chance to reassert British leadership on the continent without relitigating Brexit.
“The threat we now face is more serious, more immediate and more unpredictable than at any time since the Cold War,” Starmer told workers on Monday at BAE Systems Plc’s Govan shipyard in Glasgow. “A new era in the threats we face demands a new era for defense and security, not just to survive in this new world, but to lead.”
Yet military experts warned that the prime minister’s lofty aims contrast with what he has been willing to commit to spending on defense, and look in danger of appearing off the pace when compared to commitments being made by other members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte is pushing for members to pledge to spend 3.5% of gross domestic product on core defense activities by 2032, with another 1.5% going toward adjacent projects such as on cybersecurity and border control. That’s an effort to assuage Trump who has called on NATO countries to spend 5% of GDP, a goal the US itself doesn’t meet.
Asked for a clearer statement about when his 3% spending goal would be met, the premier declined to give what he called an “arbitrary date,” insisting he would only set out plans for further spending once the economic and fiscal situation allowed.
The lack of clarity prompted criticism from left and right, including the now-opposition Conservatives and Liberal Democrats. Starmer will be expected to provide answers to NATO leaders when he attends the organization’s summit in the Netherlands.
“What they cannot hide is what’s happened in plain sight—a total unraveling of their Strategic Defense Review because, quite simply, they haven’t got a plan to fund it,” James Cartlidge, the Conservatives’ defense spokesman, told the House of Commons. “An SDR without the funding is an empty wish list. The ships and submarines it talks of— they’re a fantasy fleet.”
While the prime minister has so far avoided the sort of criticism
that Trump has directed at other allies about their security commitments, it remains to be seen how the US leader will respond to the UK’s spending plans. There was at least one potential boost for UK-US relations in Monday’s announcement: Britain indicated it would consider buying F-35A fighter jets capable of firing tactical nuclear weapons, made by Lockheed Martin Corp. The international context was laid out at a meeting of eastern European and Nordic leaders in Vilnius on Monday, where Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen suggested that NATO’s target for 3.5% of core defense spending should be brought forward to sooner than 2032. Former Defense Secretary Grant Shapps similarly told Bloomberg that Starmer should commit to spending 3% of GDP on defense by 2030 to ensure that Britain maintains its position at the fore of NATO.
“That figure isn’t decorative—it’s the entry ticket for modern kit, a resilient industrial base and credibility with our allies. Anything less is theater,” said Shapps, a Conservative who left office last year. “Moscow can spot the difference between a slogan and steel.”
Starmer’s backers argue that he has already proved his intent by lifting projected defense spending earlier this year and accuse his Tory predecessors of handing him a poisoned inheritance including a threadbare military and overstretched public finances. Ultimately, Starmer has decided where government expenditure should be focused, choices which are in the spotlight again at next week’s spending review. With the Labour government struggling for popularity less than a year into power, and Nigel Farage’s right-wing Reform UK party surging in the polls, the party’s lawmakers have already forced a reversal on a plan to cut cold weather payments for pensioners and are pushing for him to increase benefits for parents.
Simultaneous calls from international allies to raise defense spending and from Labour lawmakers to raise welfare spending pose an obvious challenge for Starmer’s underpressure Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves. She may soon be forced to decide whether to bow to demands from within her party to loosen her fiscal rules or compromise on Labour’s campaign pledges not to raise broad-based taxes. Paul Johnson, director of the Institute of Fiscal Studies think tank, told Times Radio that he expected “some really quite chunky tax increases.” That, Johnson said, is “the only choice that is available.” With assistance from Joe Mayes and Ailbhe Rea/ Bloomberg
TSMC delays Japan expansion over traffic woes, reaffirms $100 billion US investment
C. C. Wei blamed worsening traffic snarls for delays in expanding its base in southwestern Japan, even while a parallel US effort races ahead.
Wei reaffirmed a commitment to spend another $100 billion ramping up manufacturing in Arizona over the next half-decade, while saying a plan to build a second plant in Japan was experiencing slight delays. He stressed productive discussions with Donald Trump earlier this year, even after telling the US president it will be “very, very difficult” to complete such a big buildout in five years because of a shortage of skilled labor. Trump was “warm” during their exchange, Wei said.
The twin projects embody TSMC’s impetus to produce abroad as geopolitical tensions rise and demand grows for Nvidia Corp. chips essential for developing AI. TSMC has long operated mostly from its home turf of Taiwan but built a plant in Japan after securing a raft of commitments and incentives from Tokyo. It then announced plans to dramatically increase its US investment days after Trump took office.
TSMC’s first Japan factory, which began operating last year, has been a boon to the local economy. But it’s also overwhelming the community’s farmtown infrastructure, causing shortages in housing and services and stretching commute times.
“We have created too big an impact on the local traffic. I have experienced that in person. For what used to take a 10-15 minutes drive, it now takes almost an hour,” the CEO told reporters after hosting a shareholders’ meeting in Hsinchu, Taiwan, on Tuesday. “We told the Japanese government we’ll delay the construction until the traffic improves. They said they’ll make improvements as soon as possible.”
Wei did not specify the length of the delay, which he characterized as minor.
T he world’s largest contract chipmaker sits at the heart of the global technology supply chain, producing cutting-edge chips for Apple Inc.’s iPhones and Nvidia’s AI servers. Governments from Washington to Brussels have for years courted the company, particularly after shortages of certain types of semiconductors during the pandemic halted production of cars, smartphones, power tools, home appliances and other electronics.
TSMC’s plan to build a second factory in Kumamoto Prefecture—with construction widely expected to have started in the first quarter of this year— is key to Japan’s ambitions to regain leadership in semiconductors and attract engineers to an aging country. The local community has not been able to fully absorb the sudden influx of workers from
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n Yasmín Esquivel is a Supreme Court justice who was appointed by López Obrador. She focused her campaign on modernizing the justice system and has pushed for gender equality. She was at the center of a 2022 controversy when she was accused of plagiarizing her thesis. She is considered an ally of the Morena party.
n Loretta Ortiz is a justice on the Supreme Court who was appointed by López Obrador. She also served in Congress and resigned from Morena in 2018 in a show of independence as a judge. Despite that, she’s considered an ally of the party.
n María Estela Ríos González is a lawyer who acted as legal adviser to López Obrador, first when he was mayor of Mexico City and later when he became president. She has a long history as a public servant and work in labor law and on a number of Indigenous issues.
n Giovanni Figueroa Mejía is a lawyer from the Pacific coast state of Nayarit with a doctorate in constitutional law. He currently works as an academic at the Iberoamericana University in Mexico City. He’s worked in human rights. While he holds no clear
TSMC’s first plant, however, even as the chipmaker’s plans in the US lowers the urgency of production in Japan.
This will become negative for the area, for the local government, but I am most worried it will become negative for local residents,” Wei said. “So we told the Japanese government to improve the traffic first.”
In response to Wei’s comments, Japan’s chief government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi said at a regular news conference, “Heightened uncertainty in the global economy, along with challenges including the lack of domestic infrastructure and labor can lead to hesitation among private companies thinking of investing.”
Tokyo recognizes the need to create an environment that attracts talent and investment from overseas, he said.
The holdup in Japan recalls earlier hitches in getting production up and running at TSMC’s newest US facilities in Arizona—though TSMC has made significant headway since.
There also remain questions about the longer-term outlook for AI demand. Even before Washington slapped additional tariffs on much of the world—only to roll them back shortly after—investors had questioned whether big tech firms from Microsoft Corp. to Meta Platforms Inc. will continue to buy Nvidia chips and build data centers at the same pace.
Ex ecutives on Tuesday said demand for AI chips still outstripped supply.
Wei reaffirmed the chipmaker was still looking for 2025 revenue growth in the mid-20% range, an outlook it delivered during quarterly earnings calls in April.
But the executive also warned that the strengthening Taiwanese dollar was pressuring its margins, even though the company expects record profit this year.
T SMC executives have stressed that demand—particularly for high-end chips critical to developing artificial intelligence—has remained resilient. That’s helped reassure investors fearful of the Trump administration’s escalating campaign to curtail China’s tech ambitions and impose sky-high tariffs on goods around the world. For 2025, the market remains nervous about the fallout for the global economy and a sector that supplies critical components to just about every industry on the planet.
Taiwan’s largest company is also evaluating building an advanced production facility in the United Arab Emirates, Bloomberg News reported. The project—discussed with the Trump administration—is a substantial investment in what’s called a gigafab, a complex of six factories similar to what TSMC is building in Arizona. On Tuesday, Wei said TSMC didn’t harbor plans to build a chip fab in the region because there’s no customer there. With assistance from Akemi Terukina and Erica Yokoyama/ Bloomberg
party affiliation, he supported the judicial overhaul pushed forward by Morena, saying in an interview with his university that the overhaul “was urgent and necessary in order to rebuild” the judiciary. He said some of his work in constitutional law was cited in justifying the reform.
n Irving Espinosa Betanzo is a magistrate on Mexico City’s Supreme Court and has previously worked as a congressional adviser to Morena. He campaigned for the country’s highest court on a platform of eliminating nepotism and corruption and pushing for human rights.
n Arístides Rodrigo Guerrero García is a law professor pushing for social welfare with no experience as a judge, but who has worked as a public servant and has experience in both constitutional and parliamentary law. He gained traction in campaigns for a social media video of him claiming he’s “more prepared than a pork rind.”
n Sara Irene Herrerías Guerra is a prosecutor specializing in human rights for Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office. She’s worked on issues like gender equality, sexually transmitted infections and human trafficking. In 2023, she worked on the investigation of a fire in an immigration facility in the border city of Ciudad Juárez that killed 40 migrants.
Nvidia’s $1-trillion surge: Investors bet on AI chipmaker’s continued growth
By Ryan Vlastelica & Carmen Reinicke
NVIDIA Corp. shares have staged a $1 trillion rebound in two months—and investors are betting the rally has further to go as fears about the firm give way to optimism.
Last week’s earnings report assuaged some key investor concerns: particularly whether US restrictions on the sales of advanced semiconductors in China would derail Nvidia’s rapid revenue growth as well as the outlook for artificial intelligence spending, and the firm’s ability to expand supply of its newest Blackwell chips.
“Those questions have been answered in the positive for Nvidia,” said Thomas Martin, senior portfolio manager at Globalt Investments. “It’s time to ramp back up your ownership.”
After soaring for two and a half years amid insatiable demand for its chips used in AI computing, Nvidia shares tumbled in the first few months of 2025 on concerns about President Donald Trump’s trade policies and a potential pull -
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potential impact of Trump’s tariff hikes and weak domestic demand worsened by the political turmoil of past months.
Prospects for improved North Korea relations are unclear RELATIONS with North Korea
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back in spending by its biggest customers.
Since an April low, however, the stock has rallied more than 45%, pushing Nvidia’s market value to $3.4 trillion. That’s just shy of Microsoft Corp., the world’s most valuable company. Nvidia shares remain 8% below a record high in January.
Despite the big advance, Nvidia trades at roughly 29 times profits projected over the next 12 months, well below the average over the past decade at 34 times. By contrast, the Nasdaq 100 is priced at 26 times despite Wall Street estimates calling for revenue growth this year that’s a fraction of Nvidia’s. The stock’s PEG ratio — a measure of valuation relative to growth — is under 0.9, by far the lowest among the Magnificent Sev-
remain badly strained since 2019, with the North focused on expanding its nuclear arsenal while refusing dialogues with South Korea and the US.
en, which also includes Apple Inc., Amazon.com Inc., Alphabet Inc., Tesla Inc. and Meta Platforms Inc.
Of course, Nvidia is still exposed to US tariffs given its chips are manufactured overseas and could be hurt by a deterioration in trade relations with China, a country that accounted for 13% of revenue in the first quarter. However, purchase agreements with governments in the Middle East are seen as offsetting some lost sales and Nvidia’s product pipeline is expected to keep competitors at bay.
Microsoft, Meta, Alphabet, and Amazon, which together comprise more than 40% of Nvidia’s revenue, continue to invest aggressively in AI infrastructure. Capital expenditures for the four companies are projected to reach roughly $330 billion in 2026, up 6% from estimated spending this year, according to the average of analyst estimates compiled by Bloomberg. Amazon’s cloud services chief on Friday reiterated the company’s plan to aggressively expand its data centers.
“We just haven’t seen any kind of slowdown in AI spending, and so long as capex keeps moving up, we’re unlikely to see the cycle roll over or Nvidia experience much compression to its multiple,” said Samuel Rines, a macro strategist at WisdomTree.
Since his second term began in January, Trump has repeatedly expressed his intent to resume diplomacy with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, but Kim has so far ignored the offer while making Russia his priority in foreign policy.
Lee, who wants warmer ties with North Korea, recently acknowledged it would be “very difficult” to realize a summit with Kim Jong Un anytime soon. Lee said he would support Trump’s push to restart talks with Kim Jong Un, which he believed would eventually allow South Korea to be involved in some projects in North Korea.
Nvidia is undervalued, according to Rines, who argues the ratio of price-to-projected earnings for the stock could rise to the high 30s or low 40s.
Analysts are widely bullish on Nvidia. Of the 78 covering the stock, eight have hold ratings and only one says sell. The average price target sits at around $170, which would represent a gain of 24% from Monday’s closing price, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
Despite its popularity on Wall Street, the stock remains underowned by market professionals relative to other Big Tech peers, suggesting the potential for more buying in the weeks to come. Nvidia is owned by 74% of longonly funds, according to data from Bank of America published on Friday. This puts it behind Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft, which is the most owned at 91%.
The relatively low exposure coupled with demand for more computing infrastructure is likely to drive Nvidia shares higher into 2026, according to Angelo Zino, senior equity analyst at CFRA Research.
“There were a lot of investors that really got out of this market prematurely and now they’re kind of being forced back into it,” Zino said. With assistance from Subrat Patnaik/ Bloomberg
Foreign policy strategists for Lee understand there isn’t much South Korea can do to bring about a denuclearization of North Korea, said Paik Wooyeal, a professor at Seoul’s Yonsei University. He said Lee also doesn’t share the Korean nationalistic zeal held by ex-liberal President Moon Jae-in, who met Kim Jong Un three times during his 20172022 term.
that have been critically wounded. “We know of one person who has died waiting for transportation, but there are probably more,” he said.
“The most critical cases cannot even be moved, they are not likely to survive the journey,” said Christina Bartulec, who oversees the organization’s medical operation in Akobo.
The ICRC does not track which patients are combatants and which are civilians. Most of the people brought to their facility are young men, several of whom told The Associated Press that they were engaged in fighting.
In the past month, however, an increasing number of the victims have been women and a few children, according to
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spoken and support a stronger military and securing their borders. Poland is a model Ally and a key contributor to strengthening the NATO Alliance and its sovereign integrity against today’s challenges and those ahead.”
Nawrocki supports Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s full-scale invasion, but he’s more critical of Zelenskyy than Polish leaders to date, and he opposes NATO membership for Kyiv.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who shares Nawrocki’s national conservative worldview, hailed Nawrocki’s “fantastic victory.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen offered measured congratulations: “We are all stronger together in our community of peace, democracy, and values. So let us work to
hospital staff.
One is Kuaynin Bol, 15, who was gravely injured by a blast as he lay asleep in his home. Surgeons have removed bone fragments from his brain and performed four operations on his leg, which was badly broken.
Simmering tensions between the government and opposition groups erupted in March when a local militia called the White Army overran a military barracks in Nasir, a town in the country’s northeast.
The government pinned responsibility for the attack on First Vice President Riek Machar, placing him under house arrest and detaining other members of his SPLM-IO party. It also brought in Ugandan forces to support a sweeping military offensive against opposition troops and community militias across the country.
That offensive centered on Upper
ensure the security and prosperity of our common home.”
A former boxer, historian and political novice
NAWROCKI, a 42-year-old amateur boxer and historian, was tapped by the Law and Justice party as part of its push for a fresh start.
The party governed Poland from 2015 to 2023, when it lost power to Tusk’s centrist coalition. Some political observers predicted it would never make a comeback, and Nawrocki was chosen as a new face who would not be burned by the scandals of the party’s rule.
The election outcome vindicated party leader Jarosław Kaczyński’s strategy, but on Monday many were also blaming the increasingly unpopular Tusk and Trzaskowski.
Nawrocki has most recently been the head of the Institute of National Remembrance, which embraces nationalist
Nile State and allegedly involved use of improvised incendiary weapons that Human Rights Watch has said killed at least 58 people, including children.
In May, the fighting spread to northern Jonglei State where Fangak is located, a region previously unaffected by the violence, after the government alleged several barges were hijacked by opposition forces there.
Isaac Pariel, a member of Machar’s opposition party who is the local chairman in Fangak of the government’s Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, said that at least 25 civilians have been killed this month. But the true toll is likely higher, as much of the fighting has taken place in remote areas that are inaccessible to medical workers.
One bombardment in the village of Wichmon on May 15 killed 12 people including 8 children, according to
historical narratives. He led efforts to topple monuments to the Soviet Red Army in Poland, and Russia responded by putting him on a wanted list, according to Polish media reports.
Nawrocki’s candidacy was clouded by allegations of past connections to criminal figures and his participation in a violent street brawl. He denies the criminal links but was unapologetic about the street fight, saying he had taken part in various “noble” fights in his life.
The revelations did not seem to hurt his support among right-wing voters, many of whom see the allegations as politically motivated.
The Trump factor TRUMP had made it clear he wanted Nawrocki as Poland’s president.
He welcomed Nawrocki to the White House a month ago. And last week, the conservative group CPAC held its first meeting in Poland to give Nawrocki a
local authorities and one eyewitness. The Associated Press was unable to independently verify those figures. The government has not officially claimed responsibility for the strikes. Army spokesman General Lul Ruai Koang told The Associated Press he was not authorized to comment on “ongoing military operations across the country.” The violence has been devastating for civilians already reeling from successive humanitarian crises.
Much of the fighting has taken place in South Sudan’s Greater Upper Nile region, a vast floodplain that in recent years has been ravaged by extreme weather, disease, and severe food insecurity.
“The people here are moving all the time, just during the night,” said William Nyuon, a Fangak resident. “They fear the plane will come and bomb them again.”
boost. Kristi Noem, the US Homeland Security Secretary and a prominent Trump ally, praised Nawrocki and urged Poles to vote for him.
The United States has about 10,000 troops stationed in Poland, and Noem suggested that military ties could deepen with Nawrocki as president. A common refrain from Nawrocki’s supporters is that he will restore “normality,” as they believe Trump has done. US flags often appeared at Nawrocki’s rallies, and his supporters believed that he offered a better chance for good ties with the Trump administration. Nawrocki has also echoed some of Trump’s language on Ukraine. He promises to continue Poland’s support for Ukraine, but has been critical of Zelenskyy, accusing him of taking advantage of allies. He has accused Ukrainian refugees of taking advantage of Polish generosity, vowing to prioritize Poles for social services such as health care and schooling.
Beyond topography: Govt’s fight against invisible threats to our food security
THE topography of the Philippines should have provided a natural defense against animal diseases and pests that struck certain parts of the country in recent years. The effort and the cost required to transport goods from one island to another should have allowed provinces to keep animal diseases and pests at bay. However, developments in recent years have shown that topography is no longer enough to eliminate threats that may be invisible to the naked eye, but are capable of bringing industries to its knees.
The livestock subsector, for one, continues to grapple with African swine fever (ASF) and even avian influenza. Viruses that cause these diseases may not kill humans, but they have shown to be capable of wiping out thousands of chicken and hogs. A hog farm is doomed once it is struck by ASF as the disease will bring death to the pigs there and prevent the raiser from growing a new set of animals for a few months as part of protocols to control its spread.
The sugar sector was also not spared as it is now grappling with the infestation of the red-striped soft scale insects (RSSI), which could significantly reduce cane production if it is not eliminated immediately. (See, “Killer insect’ worries sugar planters in Negros Occidental,” in the BusinessMirror , May 28, 2025). A study conducted in 2023 by researchers from the University of the Philippines Los Baños and the Sugar Regulatory Administration found that the pest was first detected in Luzon. It is not yet known how the RSSI found its way to cane fields in Negros Occidental, considered the country’s sugar bowl, but it is there now, and stakeholders are racing to prevent its spread in the province.
There are also reports that the “yellowing syndrome” is threatening rice fields in Laguna. Also known as Rice Ragged Stunt Virus, the yellowing syndrome could stunt rice growth, according to the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). Studies by Vietnam-based Cuu Long Delta Rice Research Institute researchers showed that rice virus infections were pegged to have caused a loss of around 800,000 metric tons of rice by 2005. Recently, the government called on animal raisers and handlers to boost farm biosecurity measures and follow strict sanitary protocols to prevent the spread of melioidosis and other animal-borne diseases. (See, “Govt urges vigilance after detection of melioidosis in Siquijor,” in the BusinessMirror , June 2, 2025). The government noted that melioidosis, a rare but “potentially fatal” zoonotic disease caused by the environmental bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, poses significant public health concerns in tropical regions such as Southeast Asia. It is primarily contracted through open wounds, inhalation, or ingestion of contaminated water, or contact with soil.
These threats to food security must be immediately addressed and eliminated if the state is serious about maintaining price stability. ASF and bird flu continue to wreak havoc not only on farms but also on the wallets of consumers. The government should tighten its protocols and see to it that stakeholders are observing these measures to give other areas in the country a fighting chance to fill the production gaps created by these pests and diseases.
Edsa rebuild and NCAP
PTHE BUILDER
RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced on Sunday that the Edsa rehabilitation project, originally set to start on June 13, will be postponed. He stated that the project requires one month of study to explore potential new technologies that could expedite the rehabilitation of the 23.8-kilometer road.
The long overdue rehabilitation of Edsa has made many motorists and commuters anxious. I do not blame them for their apprehension. Thousands of Filipinos ply the strategic thoroughfare that spans the cities of Caloocan, Quezon City, San Juan, Mandaluyong, Makati and Pasay.
Their worst fear is that traffic will worsen before it gets better in the capital region. But the Edsa rebuild is long overdue. Delaying the project will pose further danger to the commuting public and motorists, and worsen the traffic situation in the long run.
As I’ve said in my previous column here, repairs and maintenance works such as Edsa’s rebuild protect the integrity of vital transportation links, prevent further erosion, smoothen pavement surfaces and strengthen resilience against extreme weather. Poor road conditions also increase vehicle operating costs because of higher fuel consumption and accelerated wear on tires and suspension
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systems.
A stronger and sturdier Edsa will benefit our commuting public through faster rides and reduced traffic incidents. Edsa’s rehabilitation will take at least 18 months to complete and motorists this early have conditioned themselves about the riding inconvenience.
The Edsa rebuild project is part of the administration’s “Build Better More” initiative. The Marcos administration considers it a major infrastructure project designed as a long-term solution to the ongoing issues of pothole patching and damaged road pavements.
The project will involve using reinforced concrete to enhance the road’s durability in response to high vehicular volume. The Edsa project seeks to replace the current pavement with a more durable one.
The Edsa rebuilding project as a result will limit the vehicles using the road. As a mitigating measure, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is implementing
As I’ve said in my previous column here, repairs and maintenance works such as EDSA’s rebuild protect the integrity of vital transportation links, prevent further erosion, smoothen pavement surfaces and strengthen resilience against extreme weather.
a 24-hour odd-even number-coding scheme along Edsa beginning June 16 under a one-month trial run to ease the traffic jam.
I see the reconstruction of Edsa as a blessing in disguise. The enforcement of the stricter odd-even scheme, per the MMDA, is expected to reduce the number of vehicles on Edsa by 40 percent. The number coding scheme, though, will still be enforced on other thoroughfares in Metro Manila.
Along with the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) of the MMDA, the Edsa project is disciplining many of our motorists and making them more aware of what lies ahead in terms of their commuting experience.
Road discipline plays a major part in easing the traffic congestion in Metro Manila’s major arteries. A stricter enforcement of traffic rules through the NCAP this early has produced encouraging results.
The MMDA has apprehended over 3,000 traffic violators since the reimplementation of the NCAP in the National Capital Region began on May 26 alone.
Per the report of the MMDA, the
Israel’s Gaza attacks spur European leaders to criticize Netanyahu
By Arne Delfs & Samy Adghirni
SOME of Israel’s most loyal supporters in Europe are increasingly speaking out against the war in Gaza, with several nations, including Germany, considering curbs on trade and arms sales.
In recent weeks, the UK, Netherlands and France have started mulling such moves against Israel to help end the 20-month conflict, which has destroyed much of Gaza and sparked what international aid agencies say is a hunger crisis. Germany’s pivot was the most surprising due to its historical position that protecting Israel is a post-Holocaust obligation. German anger with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government grew when it intensified military operations against Hamas in mid-May and continued blocking aid to Gaza, according to information obtained by Bloomberg. In the
German government’s first such comments since the start of the war, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the humanitarian situation could “no longer be justified by a fight against Hamas terrorism.”
Merz spoke to Netanyahu on Sunday and said it was “necessary to allow sufficient humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip immediately.”
The condemnation is symbolic of the shift in Europe and of Israel’s increasing isolation.
Opinion polls show growing discontent. In a survey last week by Civey for Germany’s Tagesspiegel newspaper, more than half the
The UK announced plans to pause free-trade talks with Israel and sanctions against a handful of individuals and entities it said were engaged in violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.
respondents said it was wrong for Berlin to export weapons to Israel.
The sentiment is similar in several other nations and protests have escalated. Last month, the Netherlands saw one of its biggest protests in years, with tens of thousands of people calling for the war to stop.
“It’s simply become impossible for most European governments to continue supporting Israel’s war despite strong ongoing commitments to Israel’s security,” said Julien Barnes-Dacey, program director for the Middle East and North Africa at the European Council on
highest number of violations occurred on the first day, with 1,112 apprehensions. On May 27, MMDA traffic enforcers apprehended 952 violators and 797 more the following day.
The MMDA resumed the NCAP after the Supreme Court partially lifted the temporary restraining order (TRO) that had been in place since August 30, 2022. It has been effective in capturing illegally parked vehicles and addressing other traffic violations using closed-circuit television cameras, digital cameras and handheld devices.
I see a changing Edsa landscape in the coming weeks. The MMDA, for one, is considering to ban provincial buses and trucks carrying perishable goods, garbage trucks and aviation fuel delivery trucks from Edsa. It is also pleasing to note that MMDA is set to clear alternative routes of illegally parked vehicles and other obstructions in preparation to the rebuilding of the 23.8-kilometer Edsa.
MMDA’s traffic mitigating measures to alleviate the expected road congestion during the rebuilding of Edsa may not be acceptable to all stakeholders.
But motorists must contribute their share in alleviating traffic. It’s a small sacrifice to pay for the betterment of road traffic and a step forward in making Metro Manila a liveable and sustainable megapolis.
For feedback e-mail to senatormarkvillar@ gmail.com or visit our web site: https://markvillar. com.ph
Foreign Relations. More countries are taking action and calling for the European Union to adopt sanctions on Israel. The EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, in May said there is “a strong majority” in favor of reviewing the bloc’s trade agreement with Israel. Merz subsequently said Germany—one of Israel’s main arms suppliers—is considering restrictions on military exports.
The EU is Israel’s largest trading partner, with the two exchanging $47 billion of goods last year, according to the International Monetary Fund, and a change in policy would have a palpable impact on the Jewish state’s economy, which is under strain because of the war.
The UK announced plans to pause free-trade talks with Israel and sanctions against a handful of individuals See “Israel,” A13
Mark Villar
Macron and Meloni aim to reconcile as Europe seeks united front
By Donato Paolo Mancini & Ania Nussbaum
FRENCH President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will look to patch up difficult relations during a bilateral meeting in Rome on Tuesday, as Europe grapples with the seismic geopolitical shifts caused by the Trump administration.
The talks are seen as a potential way to reset relations ahead of key Nato and Group of Seven summits scheduled for later this month, said people familiar with the matter.
The meeting could even pave the way for a high-level intergovernmental summit between Paris and Rome, the people said, following years of tensions and public disputes between the two leaders.
The tete-a-tete also comes amid heightened concerns around trade and security across Europe after US President Donald Trump’s abrupt moves on both files upended longestablished transatlantic ties.
“Leaders argue, sometimes vocally, but this doesn’t compromise relations between nations,” Meloni said last week speaking to reporters.
“I’m very happy Emmanuel Macron is coming to Rome so we can sit down and talk about all these dossiers with some calm.”
Tuesday’s meeting in Rome might be the first venue for a reconciliation between the two European leaders who both have Trump’s ear to some degree. While Macron has a cordial, if transactional, relationship with Trump, Meloni is more ideologically aligned with the US president.
An Elysee official acknowledged the two leaders’ divergent positions on Trump, but noted that on trade, it’s the European Commission that speaks on their behalf given the policy file is part of the European Union’s remit.
Talks will focus on themes ranging from Ukraine to the Middle East as well as bilateral relations, potentially touching on sticking points in the business sphere, said the Elysee official, who asked not to be named per French government rules.
The Italian government said in April that it was withdrawing its support for STMicroelectronics NV Chief Executive Officer JeanMarc Chery after the French-Italian chipmaking venture rejected Italy’s nomination of Marcello Sala to its supervisory board. The board later said the CEO and management team has its backing.
Macron-Meloni animus
THE bilateral talks follow what appeared to be a split between the two leaders last month over peace plans for Ukraine, when Meloni was notably absent from a meeting in Albania involving Macron and other European leaders. Meloni told reporters that Italy’s stance against deploying troops to Ukraine justified her absence. Macron subsequently said that the question of sending troops wasn’t on the table and decried the spread of false information without naming Meloni.
The Elysee official said Monday that the Italian leader was invited to join but that she has always expressed skepticism while insisting
continued from A12
and entities it said were engaged in violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.
Still, European governments remain supportive of Israel’s right to defend itself and EU sanctions would likely face opposition from the likes of Hungary. In addition, any measures to cut weapons exports could hurt European defense companies, while risking reciprocal action from Israel, which sells air-defense and other military equipment to Europe.
Aid controversy
OUTRAGE in Europe escalated over
Trump presses reluctant GOP senators to embrace House tax bill
PThe meeting could even pave the way for a high-level intergovernmental summit between Paris and Rome, the people said, following years of tensions and public disputes between the two leaders.
on US participation. Macron’s offer to visit Rome about two weeks ago underscores how much the French president respects her, said the official.
Fundamental ideological differences between Macron and Meloni have frequently fueled spats that have spilled out into the public realm in recent years. Macron, a centrist, sees Meloni as an Italian equivalent of the French far-right leader Marine Le Pen, who has spent years attacking him on immigration as well as his pro-market policies. For Meloni, a right-wing politician with a tough stance on immigration, the French president is just the kind of arrogant elitist that she built her movement to bring down.
Last year, the two clashed over abortion rights at the G-7 summit Meloni hosted in southern Italy, with the Italian prime minister accusing Macron of electioneering just as he had called parliamentary elections in France. The French president later received an icy reception from Meloni after he arrived late to a dinner reception at the gathering.
Even before Meloni became prime minister in 2022, the two appeared to be at odds on a range of issues. “J’accuse Emmanuel Macron of exploitation, of necolonialism,” Meloni famously said in 2018 while visiting the French-Italian border during a migrant crisis.
The dynamic between the two stands in stark contrast to the warm relations Macron enjoyed with Meloni’s predecessor, Mario Draghi, with whom he signed the Quirinal Treaty, a cooperation pact between Italy and France that went into effect early 2023. While the treaty stipulates that the leaders must regularly schedule bilateral government meetings, arrange embassy personnel exchanges and develop joint strategies on Mediterranean policy and security, the tensions between Meloni and Macron have made meeting even the most basic requirements more challenging.
Still, Meloni has tried to tone down talks of a rift and recently said the two remain aligned as leaders of allied nations.
“You’re always passionate about this subject,” she said answering a reporter’s question last week about tensions with Macron, adding that the two nations remain allies and converge on many issues, but also have differences. With assistance from Samy Adghirni and Alessandra Migliaccio/ Bloomberg
a Israel- and US-backed proposal to restart aid distribution to Gaza. The United Nations said the plan would supply nowhere near enough food and medicine to the territory’s more than 2 million Palestinians and politicize handouts.
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, the Swiss-based nonprofit running the program, started distribution last week and says enough meals will be available as more centers open. Israel says the plan’s necessary to avoid supplies falling into the hands of Hamas. It also says its escalation of ground and air attacks in Gaza are needed to force Hamas to surrender and release the 58 hostages it still holds.
By Erik Wasson & Steven T. Dennis
RESIDENT Donald Trump worked the phones Monday and took to social media to try to sway Republican holdouts on his multi-trillion dollar tax bill, encountering conflicting demands from GOP senators even as he urged them to move swiftly.
The legislation, which last month passed the House by one vote, faces opposition from both moderates and ultra-conservatives in the Senate, where Trump can afford to lose no more than three votes.
“With the Senate coming back to Washington today, I call on all of my Republican friends in the Senate and House to work as fast as they can to get this Bill to MY DESK before the Fourth of JULY,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
The president gave lawmakers at odds with one another the feeling that he was on their side.
Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina, who wants more deficit reduction and also opposes clean energy cuts in the House bill, said he expected Senate leaders to present Trump with a draft of tax and Medicaid revisions by this weekend. But he acknowledged that the process could take much longer.
Republicans, Tillis said, have to put ideas from senators “in the funnel and get a work product, I’d say over the next ten days, ten-tofifteen days.”
That tight timeframe would be needed to get the legislation to Trump’s desk by his July 4 deadline but would be hard to meet.
If the Senate passes a revised bill, the House must then take it up again. And any changes risk undoing the fragile coalition that narrowly supported the measure in that chamber.
Senate Republican leaders intend to make permanent many of the temporary tax cuts in the House bill, a move that would increase the bill’s more than $2.5 trillion deficit impact. Yet doing so risks alienating fiscal hawks already at war with party moderates over the bill’s safety-net cuts.
The biggest of those is the House bill’s cuts to Medicaid, which are pro -
Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina, who wants more deficit reduction and also opposes clean energy cuts in the House bill, said he expected Senate leaders to present Trump with a draft of tax and Medicaid revisions by this weekend. But he acknowledged that the process could take much longer.
jected to end health care coverage for about 7.7 million people by changing eligibility requirements.
Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri said in a mid-afternoon social media post that he “just had a great talk” with the president on the legislation and they agreed no Medicaid benefits would be cut.
Hawley later said he supports the House bill’s work requirements, as well as efforts to go after fraud, but opposes that measure’s changes to the Medicaid provider tax and cost sharing. The House legislation seeks to limit a practice whereby states tax hospitals and other Medicaid providers in order to bolster their federal reimbursement levels, a move critics call an accounting gimmick. It also
China’s private factory gauge plunges to weakest since 2022
CHINA’S manufacturing sector had its worst slump since September 2022, according to a private survey, as higher US tariffs took a toll on smaller exporters despite a truce in the trade war with the US.
The Caixin manufacturing purchasing managers’ index fell to 48.3 in May from 50.4 in the prior month, according to a statement released by Caixin and S&P Global on Tuesday, well below the 50 mark separating expansion from contraction. The figure was below every estimate in a Bloomberg survey of analysts, whose median was 50.7.
The trade war started by President Donald Trump is rippling through industries across Asia and beyond, as US duties and trade uncertainty erode demand. Vietnam, Indonesia, Taiwan, Japan and South Korea all suffered a contraction in manufacturing activity last month—a downturn caused in large part by a drop in new export orders and production. US factory activity shrank in May for a third consecutive month.
“Manufacturing supply and demand declined, dragged by overseas demand,” Wang Zhe, senior economist at Caixin Insight Group, said in a statement. “The downward pressure on the economy has significantly intensified compared to preceding periods.”
The results, based on a poll conducted May 12-21, were far weaker than the official PMI reading released Saturday, which showed manufacturing contracted less thanks to the reprieve on tariffs. The National Bureau of Statistics typically conducts its surveys between the 22nd and 25th of every month.
The timing differences may have
Iran-backed Hamas, designated a terrorist group by the US and the EU, triggered the war when thousands of fighters crossed into Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and abducting 250.
More than 54,000 Gazans have been killed in the war, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in the Palestinian territory. Israel has lost more than 400 troops in Gaza combat.
Images of hungry and injured children and a territory reduced to rubble have spread across news bulletins and social media, intensifying protests and prompting more pressure on Israel to increase aid supplies and stop its bombardment. On Friday, French President Emmanuel
contributed to the discrepancy in the two PMI data sets, according to economists at Goldman Sachs Group Inc., since China and the US reached an agreement on May 12 to reduce tariffs for 90 days.
The divergence between the private and official PMI numbers also highlights the disproportionate damage to small- and medium-sized Chinese companies from the trade war, according to Becky Liu, head of China macro strategy at Standard Chartered Bank.
The impact from US tariffs “is mostly on smaller exporters with a hit to employment, while a direct impact on large corporations and overall exports will likely be more limited given their much more diversified business profiles,” Liu said.
“The additional slowdown in the global economy—due to policy uncertainties in the US on top of trade policies—will further dent external demand, and will likely lead to some further weakness in SMEs’ exports ahead.”
“The May reading on the Caixin manufacturing PMI, which showed a surprise—and sharp—drop into contraction could be another misleading signal. It’s hard to explain it otherwise—high frequency-indicators point in the other direction. Technical factors in the survey—a smaller sample relative to the official PMI and different methodology for seasonal adjustments—may be at play,” said Bloomberg economists
Macron said that Europe will have to harden its collective stance toward Israel unless the situation in Gaza improves soon.
“The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable,” France said in a joint statement with the UK and Canada on May 19. “We will not stand by while the Netanyahu Government pursues these egregious actions.”
France, home to both the largest Jewish and Muslim communities in Europe, is seeking to rally international support for Palestinian statehood and this month it is set to co-chair a UN conference in New York with Saudi Arabia.
The French public is largely supportive of the initiative, with a poll by Odoxa last month showing nearly
imposes new copays on Medicaid beneficiaries.
The senator added that the president made clear to him he didn’t support making even deeper cuts to Medicaid than in the House bill that some Senate Republicans are demanding.
Trump also spoke with Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, a GOP holdout who said he wants to cut the budget from more than the current level of more than $7 trillion to between $5.5 trillion to $6.5 trillion. Johnson said Trump was receptive to his ideas.
Johnson said he’d sit down with Trump’s economic team to review the numbers and would be open to something similar to the House bill with assurances of legislation later that makes deeper cuts.
“I want to work with the president,” Johnson said.
Trump also met Monday with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, whose said they discussed many subjects including “a lot about the big beautiful bill.” Spokespeople for Thune and the Senate Finance Committee said they could not confirm any plans to release a new draft bill text by this weekend. With assistance from Chris Cioffi /Bloomberg
The surprise deterioration in manufacturing highlights the need for more support from the government to strengthen consumption and offset shocks to external demand. At the height of tensions with the US last month, the central bank delivered cuts to its policy rate and the reserve requirement ratio, which determines the amount of cash lenders must set aside in reserves.
Chang Shu and Eric Zhu.
The surprise deterioration in manufacturing highlights the need for more support from the government to strengthen consumption and offset shocks to external demand. At the height of tensions with the US last month, the central bank delivered cuts to its policy rate and the reserve requirement ratio, which determines the amount of cash lenders must set aside in reserves.
Chinese stocks rose after the weak data on Tuesday reignited hopes of more stimulus. The onshore CSI 300 Index gained 0.5 percent as of the mid-day break, while a gauge of Chinese stocks listed in Hong Kong jumped as much as 1.8 percent.
“Boosting domestic demand should be grounded in improving household incomes,” Caixin Insight Group’s Wang said. “Feasible and effective measures must be taken to improve the employment environment, strengthen social security, raise household disposable income, improve market expectations, and ultimately drive a continued economic recovery.”
The picture painted by the more
two thirds of people favor a Palestinian state and 61 percent would back political and economic sanctions on Israel. According to the same poll, Macron’s approval rating improved largely due to his shift on Gaza.
For now, Israel’s most important ally, the US, is standing by Netanyahu’s government. Still, President Donald Trump has consistently spoken of wanting to stabilize the Middle East and has said he wants the conflict in Gaza to end.
Trump “could actually strengthen the Franco-Saudi push for Palestinian statehood because Palestinian statehood cannot happen without a ceasefire in Gaza,” Rym Momtaz, editor in chief of Carnegie Europe’s blog Strategic Europe, said.
export-oriented Caixin survey offers another glimpse of how factories adjusted in the initial aftermath of the trade ceasefire.
Although the US lowered the average rate of tariffs to roughly 40% following last month’s talks in Geneva, that level is still enough to reduce American imports from China by around 70 percent over the medium term, according to estimates from Bloomberg Economics.
A renewed fall in new orders accompanied a decline in manufacturing output, according to the PMI report. Companies reduced their purchasing activity and cut staffing levels, although sentiment toward future output improved, it said. The prospects for manufacturing in the months ahead are still in question given an uncertain export outlook, and especially as tensions rose again in recent days between the world’s two biggest economies. The economy remains under pressure from sluggish domestic demand.
The Caixin results have tended to be higher than those from the official poll over the previous year as exports stayed strong. The two surveys cover different sample sizes, locations and business types, with the private poll focusing on small and medium-sized firms in the nonstate sector.
“The trade environment remains highly uncertain,” said Raymond Yeung, chief economist for Greater China at Australia & New Zealand Banking Group Ltd. “The key remains on property, which is still sluggish with no sign of recovery.” With assistance from James Mayger, Fran Wang, Zhu Lin and Katia Dmitrieva /Bloomberg
Netanyahu has lashed out at Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, accusing them of “inviting more such atrocities” on Israel. For the EU, forging consensus is often a long process, with several rounds of horse trading. Yet Germany’s comments are “a real marker” of how things have moved, according to Barnes-Dacey of the European Council on Foreign Relations.
“But Europeans will need to back up their statements of condemnation with real material steps,” he said, “if they want to be taken seriously and are genuinely seeking to shift Israeli positioning.” With assistance from Heidi
Taksdal Skjeseth, Patrick Van Oosterom, Peter Martin, Ellen Milligan, Jennifer Duggan, Daniel Basteiro and Sanjit Das/Bloomberg
BusinessMirror
Peza clears Palawan Mega Ecozone, largest in country
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
THEPhilippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza) Board said it has approved the Palawan Mega Ecozone, the largest ecozone in the Philippines, which is expected to create over 480,000 direct jobs, benefiting local communities and persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) and the whole of Western Visayas and Sulu regions.
According to Peza, the Palawan Mega Ecozone (PMEZ) will comprise 28,000 hectares in the Iwahig Prison colony of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) just beside Puerto Princesa City.
The mega development is a joint undertaking of PEZA and BuCor, and entails transforming the idle land of BuCor into job creating ecofriendly industrial estates.
The investment promotion agency said an initial 4,000 hectares has
Fishers find
been transferred to Peza as phase 1 for conversion into the approved PMEZ.
PEZA said the mega ecozone is seen to “revive” the (Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area) BIMP-Eaga trade zone.
“PMEZ is an immediate response to the instructions of the President of promoting stronger trade ties among Asean member states in view of the US tariffs,” the invest-
₧1.5-B ‘shabu’
floating off Bajo de Masinloc
By Henry Empeño
MASINLOC, Zambales—
More than P1.5 billion worth of suspected methamphetamine hydrocholoride or “shabu” contained in 10 sacks were fished off the waters of Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal on Thursday, May 29, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Bataan Provincial Police Office (PPO) separately reported late Monday.
The crew of a fishing vessel reportedly spotted the sacks floating in the sea while sailing west of the disputed shoal and, thinking they were food packs, retrieved them only to discover that they contained packets of what appeared to be “shabu.”
The fishing crew reportedly arrived at Brgy. Sisiman in Mariveles, Bataan at around 2pm on June 1, temporarily secured the recovered items in a grounded barge in the area, and reported their find to the PCG Mariveles substation, which immediately deployed an inspection team.
K9 units from PCG Bataan positively determined the presence of illegal drugs in the recovered sacks, prompting the Coast Guard to call in the Bataan office of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) which confirmed the initial findings.
The Bataan Provincial Police Office said the recovered contraband consisted of 10 sacks containing an estimated 222 kilograms of suspected shabu, with a total estimated standard drug price of P1.509 billion.
The joint inventory of the recovered items was conducted in the presence of a representative from the
Department of Justice, media, and an elected local official, the police added.
Photos of the contraband being inventoried showed that the drugs were placed in packets marked “Daguanyin,” a brand of refined Chinese tea.
A check by BusinessMirror showed that “Daguanyin” tea packs have been used in several attempts to smuggle “shabu” in the country. These include a P400-million “shabu” bust at the Liloan Ferry Terminal in Leyte in November last year, wherein 57 heat-sealed tea bag packets were confiscated; the P6.8million buy-bust operation in Las Piñas City in December 2022, which yielded 1 kilo of “shabu” in a vacuumsealed Daguanyin tea bag; and another buy-bust in Sultan Kudarat in January 2021, which turned up one kilo of “shabu” placed inside a green plastic cellophane Daguanyin pack.
A case report in the international peer-reviewed journal Toxicologie Analytique et Clinique in September 2022 that profiled methamphetamine concealed in teabags seized from multiple drug operations in the Philippines mentioned Daguanyin as among the labels used.
The study, which focused on tea bags encountered by the PDEA laboratory from March 2019 to June 2021, mentioned other Chinese teabag brands like “Guanyingwang,” “Chinese Pin Wei,” “Qing Shan”, and “Alishan Jin Xuan Tea.”
The case report noted that “No local clandestine laboratory [has been] detected yet for Chinese tea bags, which supports the idea that it comes from overseas.”
ment promotion agency noted.
For his part, Peza Director General Tereso O. Panga said the Palawan Mega Ecozone is “envisioned to attract environmentally responsible industries such as agro-industrial processing, renewable energy, ecotourism and marine biotechnology.”
“This will not only preserve Palawan’s rich biodiversity but will also uplift the livelihood of local communities through jobs and infrastructure development,” added Panga.
The same Board meeting of Peza last May 21 saw the creation of a technical working group composed of government agencies such as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), National Water Resources Board (NWRB), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev), the host LGU, and the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development which are expected to facilitate the issuance of documents necessary to fast-track the ecozone’s proclamation.
Peza said it is targeting the completion of regulatory requirements
by the second quarter of 2025 prior to its submission to the Office of the President for Proclamation.
Meanwhile, the investment promotion agency also reported approving 102 new and expansion projects worth P66.34 billion of investments between January and May 2025.
This is an 80.14-percent increase over the P36.83 billion approved in the five-month period in 2024.
Peza projects 29,337 direct jobs would be created and over $1 billion in export revenues would be generated with these greenlighted investments.
“The P66 billion in approved new and expansion projects spans advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, IT-BPM, logistics, and renewable energy—key industries driving the transformation of global trade networks,” said Peza.
Panga said there still remains some “uncertainty” regarding the US tariffs which are currently being negotiated. However, he said: “At Peza we are promoting the China+1+1 methodology to facilitate the growing interest of China-based companies in having a presence in
See “Peza,” A2
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
However, the DA chief noted that the only exception to the import list is sardines.
“We allowed sardine imports because it was off-season in some of our local fishing grounds, and sardines are the most affordable fish available to help address inflation concerns,” Laurel explained. Importers accredited under FAO 195 and those registered under FAO 259
projects.
“Their presence was strictly for the purpose of fulfilling contractually agreed technical and support obligations—an ordinary practice in infrastructure projects of this scale.” It asserted its “full compliance” with Philippine laws are regulations, adding that it is confident that “once the appropriate proceedings are completed, the Bureau of Immigration’s records will reflect that the individuals in question possess the required visas, and work permits to lawfully work in the Philippines.”
Last month, Dito faced allegations of “endangering [Philippine] national security,” with columnist Ramon Tulfo alleging that Dito has employed 400 Chinese, who “could be potential spies.” Dito Chief Revenue Officer Adel Tamano said these allegations are unfounded, citing Congressional hearings and the “strict” standards for cybersecurity to which Dito has “passed.”
are eligible for fish import allocations through the Certificate of Necessity to Import (CNI), which allows importation during the closed fishing season. Eligibility is subject to the guidelines stipulated under Memorandum Order No. 12, series of 2025. FAO 195 covers the importation of fresh, chilled, or frozen fish and aquatic products, while FAO 259 applies specifically to imports for wet markets during the closed season. With the policy adjustments in place, Laurel expressed confidence that the remaining import volume would be fully utilized.
IBy Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Special to the BusinessMirror
NTERNATIONAL carriers will have to wait 14 years until delivery, if they want to purchase new aircraft, and probably longer if aircraft are no longer exempted from import duties.
This was disclosed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in its updated 2025 airline industry financial outlook. “The aircraft backlog exceeds 17,000 [sharply up from the 10,000-11,000
pre-pandemic], with an implied wait time of 14 years. Should states exit from a multilateral agreement exempting aircraft from tariffs, supply chain constraints and production limitations could be further aggravated.” IATA, which represents some 350 airlines comprising over 80 percent of global air traffic, projects only 1,692 aircraft to be delivered this year. “Although this would mark the highest level since 2018,
SACKS of shabu recovered by fishermen off the Scarborough Shoal are lined up at Brgy. Sisiman in Mariveles, Bataan. PHOTO BY PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
Mynt investors, board give nod to proposed stock split
By VG Cabuag @villygc
THE board of Globe Fintech Innovations Inc. (Mynt), the company behind GCash, has approved a proposed stock split which will reduce the par value of the company’s common shares.
In its disclosure, the company said it is lowering the par value of its stock to P0.03 from P1 per share.
As a result, it will increase the number of authorized common shares to 71.65 billion shares from the current 2.14 billion. The company’s authorized capital stock of P2.14 billion will remain the same. This will take effect upon the approval of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), it said.
Mynt is a partnership between Globe Telecom Inc., Ayala Corp. and Ant Financial, an affiliate company of the Chinese conglomerate Alibaba Group. It also operates Fuse Lending, a micro and small-business lending platform.
Gcash is mulling over the conduct of an initial public offering (IPO), which has stirred the interest of the market.
Mynt has been asking for an exemption from the minimum
So, if they’re going to get an exemptive relief for a lower public float, I don’t think there will be a requirement to do a follow-on,” Philippine Stock Exchange Inc.’s President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon said.
The SEC said it has allowed, by way of exemptive relief, an initial public offering float of 15 percent from the current rule on 20 percent, subject to strict criteria.
public ownership rule as the stock market is currently having liquidity problems and may not be able to absorb its IPO if they are required to offer 20 percent of their outstanding shares.
The company is seeking a valuation of $8 billion when it goes public, possibly by yearend. This would value a 20 percent IPO at $1.6 billion.
“GCash, is a different animal because, for them, it’s not a question of having a difficult time offering the 20 percent. They’re saying it’s too big for the market to absorb.
The agency said, however, it “remains firm” on the 20-percent minimum public float requirement for companies applying for an IPO, especially given the value of higher public ownership to market depth and efficiency.
“Beyond enhancing market liquidity, the minimum public ownership requirement plays a crucial role in improving price discovery and reducing opportunities for price manipulation,” it said in a statement.
The SEC said it has not yet received a registration statement from GCash.
Villar Land sees asset appreciation
VILLAR Land Holdings Corp., formerly known as Golden MV Holdings Inc., said it still expects its assets to appreciate after its earnings reached nearly P1 trillion last year.
The company has built a landbank, which has been acquired by the family for decades, with its crown jewel being the Villar City, a 3,500-hectare estate straddling southern Metro Manila and Cavite.
Villar City’s commercial lots are still competitive, relative to those in the more established nearby districts, the company said.
For instance, commercial lot prices within Villar City’s Innovation District starts at P345,000 per square meter, below Filinvest City’s prices which range from P396,000 per square meter to P592,000 per sqm. Commercial
lot prices in Ayala Land’s Cerca Alabang, meanwhile, stood at P420,000 per sqm.
“These comparable rates validates Villar Land’s fair-value revisions, mirroring actual transaction values in the market.”
Infrastructure enhancements are all poised to improve connectivity and convenience. These include the Villar Avenue, which serves as the main thoroughfare connecting all districts in Villar City, the Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway and other future developments such as an integrated LRT and the Bus Rapid Transit network.
Villar Land has also announced, launched and opened landmark developments since the official launch in 2023.
Among them is the 118 hectares of mixed-use estate called Forresta and the Forresta Cafe, which opened in early 2024.
Upcoming developments, such as the Villar City Stadium, two 18-hole championship golf courses designed in partnership with Curley-Wagner Golf Design and strategic collaborations like the University of the PhilippinesDasmariñas campus, highlight its focus on deepening its role as a hub for sports, education, leisure and investment.
Activities like fun runs, carfree Sundays and bike trails further reflect Villar City’s push for healthier, more connected communities.
For both homebuyers and investors, Villar Land offers scale, strategic timing and proven execution, the company said.
List of GEA-3 winning bidders out soon–DOE
THE results of the third round of the green energy auction (GEA3) will be released next week, according to a top official of the Department of Energy (DOE).
“Hopefully, by Monday. We’re just waiting for the secretary to sign,” said DOE Undersecretary Rowena Guevara.
GEA-3 locked in 7,500 megawatts (MW) of 14 committed power projects, with a delivery period between 2025 and 2035. These include 6,950-MW of pumpedstorage hydropower (PSH), 550-MW of impounding hydro, and 30.89 MW of geothermal.
PSH has the capability to perform as an energy storage facility that can complement generation from variable renewable energy (VRE) sources such as solar and wind but at the same time can inject power into the grid for supply augmentation and balance the intermittency of VREs in the power system towards achieving energy security.
Currently, the only PSH in the country are the government-owned Kalay-
aan 1 and 2 in Laguna with a total capacity of over 300 MW. The auction was held last February. The identities of the winning bidders will be revealed next week. The Certificate of Award will be released upon complete submission of the postauction documents under Section 9 of the Terms of Reference and affirmed in order by the GEA-Bids Evaluation and Awards Committee. The bids in the auction were ranked based on offers from lowest to highest bid price and stacked corresponding to the respective renewable energy (RE) technology until the installation target is met.
The aggregate capacity of accepted bids underscores the growing confidence of investors and developers in the Philippine RE sector, the DOE said.
The DOE highlights that this auction is part of a broader strategy to encourage market-driven investments and efforts to diversify the country’s energy mix to achieve the target of 35-percent RE share in the power generation mix by 2030. Lenie Lectura
“And with Villar City, it is poised to maximize its landbank to create new prime growth corridors that can fuel progress and deliver real and durable value.”
The company reported that it recorded P999.72 billion in net profits last year, a massive leap from P1.46 billion recorded in 2023.
Villar Land attributed this to an increase in fair value gains on its investment properties to P1.33 trillion last year, primarily due to the value appreciation of its investment properties.
Total assets were recorded at P1.37 trillion as of end-December 2024 from P28.64 billion in 2023.
In September last year, the company acquired Althorp Land Holdings Inc., Chalgrove Properties Inc. and Los Valores Corp. These companies collectively own 366 hectares of prime land within Villar City. VG Cabuag
THE United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved the registration statement of Hotel101, paving the way for its listing on the Nasdaq later this month.
The registration statement covers the combination of Hotel101 Global Holdings Corp. and JVSPAC Acquisition Corp. It values Hotel 101 at about $2.3 billion.
Upon listing, the combined company will operate as Hotel101 Global Holdings Corp. and trade under the ticker symbol HBNB.
Once listed, Hotel101 will become the first Filipino-owned company to be listed and traded on Nasdaq.
Hotel101 is a subsidiary of Philippine-listed DoubleDragon Corp.
“This significant step towards Hotel101’s US listing brings us closer to our vision of becoming the world’s first truly global one-room hotel chain. Our asset-light, prop-tech hospitality platform is built for efficiency and scalability, offering a globally standardized ‘condotel’ model that empowers individual real estate unit ownership in the hospitality sector while enhancing the guest experience,” Hannah Yulo-Luccini, CEO of Hotel101, said. Luccini said their business creates a dual revenue stream. First, through the pre-sale of hotel units to individual unit owners, and then through long-term management and operations contracts.
“As we expand into key markets, including Japan and the US, we are taking a pivotal step through this listing that will help scale our model globally and redefine the global hospitality experi-
ence,” she said.
Hotel101’s management said it believes that its global one room hotel chain model is poised to disrupt the hospitality industry by offering identical, standardized hotel rooms globally, the company said.
“We believe Hotel101 has significant potential to successfully expand globally. We expect this to have a network effect that will further elevate the brand and benefit all stakeholders within its ecosystem. As the global middle class continues to expand, we see an extraordinary opportunity to disrupt the industry with a model designed for rapid international growth,” Edgar Sia II, chairman and CEO of DoubleDragon, said.
With Hotel101’s ongoing international expansion to Japan, Spain and the US, the company said it believes that a Nasdaq listing will provide Hotel101 with access to public capital markets and help accelerate its global expansion plans.
Hotel101’s long term vision is to establish a global footprint in 100 countries worldwide, with an initial 25 identified priority countries for the medium-term.
“The SEC’s declaration of effectiveness is an important step toward the successful completion of the business combination between JVSPAC and Hotel101. Hotel101’s innovative approach to hospitality has the potential to completely redefine the mid-market segment, while presenting a compelling opportunity for rapidly scalable, long-term growth,” Albert Wong, chairman of JVSPAC, said. VG Cabuag
Companies
Lazada set to expand footprint in Mindanao
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
LAZADA , one of the leading e-commerce platforms in Southeast Asia, is investing over P3 billion in Mindanao as it
aims to increase e-commerce penetration in the region.
In an interview with reporters on Monday, Lazada Philippines CEO Carlos Barrera said Lazada’s business in Mindanao has been picking up.
While the region has the lowest e-commerce penetration in the country, Barrera said Mindanao is projected to account for some 20 percent to 25 percent of Lazada’s business in the Philippines.
“So, when we look at the opportunity, it’s not so much about what it accounts for today. We’re investing today to build that future growth and to help in bridging that e-commerce development gap.”
He said the e-commerce platform is investing in promotion es -
pecially on shipping and vouchers as they want to make online shopping more affordable for Mindanao residents.
“Historically, the cost of delivering items to Mindanao was the highest in the country, so we have been investing a lot, and we have been able to lower the cost of shipping by more than P40 per order.”
On top of this, Barrera said the ecommerce platform is also increasing its spending on online marketing and installation campaigns as
Lazada is trying to get more users to shift to e-commerce.
As to the seller side, the chief of Lazada Philippines said the ecommerce platform is targeting to set up offices and open more hubs in the region.
“We set up an office, we have dedicated account managers, a dedicated team there, and we are incubating a lot of sellers. So we give them different packages to help them grow. We have onboarded more than 500 sellers over the past few months, and we’re also investing a lot to help them grow.”
Moreover, Lazada is “co-funding” vouchers and commission waivers as it tries to gain traction and waive a lot of cost of doing business.
“And then the last one will be on infrastructure and the ecosystem. We are opening more hubs. We’re
growing quite a lot our own logistics ecosystem there.”
On financing options, Barrera said the e-commerce platform is giving more “buy now, pay later” options for users within the area as well as “seller financing.”
Meanwhile, Barrera said Lazada announced last week that it is investing some $100 million in Southeast Asia. He revealed that this amount would be allocated depending on the efficiency of a country’s influencers.
“The Philippines is one of the biggest countries for influencers, especially when it comes to many mobile individuals, people that are recommending things. We have very strong beauty vloggers, mother and baby vloggers, so it will probably one of the top two countries in terms of the investment.”
LAZADA Philippines CEO Carlos Barrera (PHOTO COURTESY OF LAZADA).
Retirement costs
THERE are many articles providing for amounts needed or certain rules of thumb for being able to retire safely and comfortably. However, I think that this amount can vary widely depending on the particular circumstances of the retiree. These factors would include their current financial position, physical condition, lifestyle, obligations and of course longevity.
As a starting point, you first need to consider your current financial situation covering how much you have in savings, what are your assets, investments and liabilities such as loans, to determine your net cash flow. Hopefully, the older you are the more you have in savings and investments with a positive cash flow.
If at this time you have a positive cash flow and continue to accrue savings and increase your investments, you probably do not need to worry about retirement costs. More so, if most of your cash flow is coming from recurring income such as interest, rent, royalties, dividends and other passive sources. Alternatively, sitting on a huge pile of cash from the sale of an asset or inheritance will work as well. This is known as “LOI” or “Living On Interest.” The easiest way to calculate this is putting your cash in a monthly time deposit with a reputable and well established bank. Currently, placement rates will yield a net interest of 4 percent per annum so if you have P10,000,000 on hand you would earn P400,000 a year or P33,333.33 a month.
Your physical situation will also have a big impact on your retirement expenses. Having a disability or age related limitations will require more expenses for medicines, doctors, helpers, aides, drivers and other staff. Typically, your physical condition and expenses will not improve with age, on the contrary, it will get worse and require more attention.
Aside from the physical health, I have seen many people who have developed mental issues as they grow older, such as dementia which includes Alzheimer’s. Many retirees suffer in their old age not because they did not have enough money but because they did not have enough of their mental faculty to ward off their own evil children and relatives from taking advantage of the situation and steal their nest egg. With their assets and savings stolen, they are sent to a home for the aged to suffer neglect and a pitiful life, worse they are left uncared for till their death. Being able to continue or even improve on the lifestyle you have been accustomed to is
FINEX FREE ENTERPRISE
what we all hope for in our retirement. You can easily calculate all these expenses starting with your household expenses such as real estate taxes, association dues, utilities, groceries, maintenance, staff salaries and incidentals.
Other expenses such as maintaining your membership in country clubs, restaurant, entertainment, transportation and travel expenses can all add up and are cost you should be aware of and allocate for. It is possible to get health insurance to cover your unforeseen needs but this also requires the payment of premiums and while there is PhilHealth it most likely will be limited and insufficient.
Obligations for the education of your children, taking care of your parents and perhaps other relatives who cannot take care of themselves do not disappear as you get into your retirement. However, this is something you can prepare for by setting aside the money for what is needed or perhaps ending your obligation with them by giving them advance notice or enough time to manage their own affairs. At the end of the day, you will not be able to save everyone in need or in trouble, you will just have to prioritize and identify what is truly your responsibility and obligation.
Longevity is often overlooked in preparing the cost for your retirement. In the Philippines, the life expectancy for males is at 70.22 years and for women is at 74.17 years. Since many people work into their 60s and beyond, enjoying your retirement for just a decade does not seem too much. It would be nice to have a happy and productive life until you reach 100, and maybe that should be your mindset and goal. Naturally there are limitations on your ability to get gainful employment but if you plan well enough in advance, you could live off passive income and choose the people who you can trust and truly cares about you to manage your savings and well being in the event you are not longer able to take care of yourself.
The views and comments of Dr. George S. Chua are his own and not of the BusinessMirror or the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (Finex). The author was 2016 Finex president and life member, 2010 to 2020 Federation of Philippine Industries President, an active entrepreneur in fintech, broadcast, media, telecommunications, and properties. Dr. Chua is also a Professorial Lecturer 2 at the University of the Philippines Diliman and BGC Campus and Vice Chairman of the Market Governance Board of the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corporation. Comments may be sent to georgechuaph@yahoo.com or gschua@ up.edu.ph.
T-bonds yield fall as investors expect May inflation to ease
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
THE average yield of 5-year Treasury bonds (T-bonds) fell on Tuesday, lower than the secondary benchmark and its previous rate over a month ago, as investors expect slower inflation and further monetary easing.
At the public auction, the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) raised P30 billion by fully awarding the reissued debt papers with a remaining term of five years and one month.
The average annual yield of the long-term government IOUs declined by 5.6 basis points from the 5.943 percent yield during the previous auction for the same tenor on April 29.
Compared to the benchmark Philippine Bloomberg Valuation (PHP BVAL) rate, the average auction yield is also 1.1 basis points lower than the 5.8981 percent yield of the 5-year tenor.
Yields of the 5-year T-bonds ranged from a low of 5.800 percent to a high of 5.899 percent. The T-bonds carried a coupon rate of 6.375 percent.
Meanwhile, demand for the T-bonds amounted to P59.869 billion, 1.9 times oversubscribed the initial offering. The auction committee had to reject bids worth P29.869 billion.
This prompted the auction committee to open the tap facility for a volume of P5 billion.
According to Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort, the 5-year T-bond yield dropped due to the market’s expectations of benign or easing inflation for May. The inflation data will be released on June 5.
Even the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) projects inflation to settle within 0.9 and 1.7 percent in May. This is the slowest since October 2019, when inflation was at 0.6 percent. (See: https:// businessmirror.com.ph/2025/05/31/bsp-seesmay-inflation-slowest-since-october-2019/).
“Going forward, the Monetary Board will continue to take a measured approach in adjusting the monetary policy stance in line with its price stability objectives conducive to balanced and sustainable growth of the economy and employment,” the BSP said.
BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. has signaled two potential rate cuts, lowering the key policy rate by 25 basis points each, for 2025, on the back of lower inflation.
A possible reduction in the reserve requirement ratio in 2026 also adds to the central bank’s dovishness. The Monetary Board, the BSP’s highest policy-making body, will convene on June 19 for its rate-setting meeting.
Apart from local pressures, external economic conditions have also impacted the T-bond yield. The Philippine peso appreciated to an 8-month high against the US dollar while global oil prices dropped to near 3.5year lows, Ricafort said. Moreover, US bond yields have dipped slightly as the US Federal Reserve signaled a more cautious approach to monetary easing, although the 10-year US Treasury yield is still relatively high at 4.43 percent.
George S. Chua
Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug
DTI and KTNET launch FTA integrated platform roadshow in Laguna, empowering Pinoy exporters
‘Treasures of the North’
LBy Leilanie Adriano
AOAG CITY—An exhibit showcasing the creativity and ingenuity of Ilocanos opened here on Friday, with the participation of at least 20 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Amelia Galvez, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) director in Ilocos Norte, said the “Treasures of the North” exhibit aims to promote and widen the market for MSMEs and encourage Ilocanos to support local products.
“It’s an overwhelming experience to become part of this exhibit,” said Suerte Mia Soriano, owner of Lucky Theo’s Food Products located in Barangay 9 in Banna, Ilocos Norte.
“Thank you [for] the continued assistance of the DTI to improve our products and reach out a wider market.”
Soriano is among the pioneering graduates of the DTI’s mentoring program, which increased her con-
fidence to expand her production and market.
To date, Lucky Theo’s Food Products has been supplying banana chips, chichacorn, taro chips, camote chips, garlic chips, sesamecoated peanuts, and mixed nuts, among others, to at least six branches of Robinsons Place supermarket in Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, and the Cordillera regions, including other OTOP hubs and “pasalubong” centers nationwide.
Featuring a diverse array of Ilocos Norte’s finest products—from authentic flavors to colorful handcrafted items—the exhibit runs from May 30 to June 12 on the lower ground floor of the newly opened SM City Laoag.
“This is a historic first for SM Supermalls, where a new SM branch is opened with MSME engagement,” Galvez said.
The exhibit was initiated by the DTI-Ilocos Norte’s Business Development Division and the Partuat ti Kailokuan Marketing Cooperative. PNA
UP Visayas unveils safety food manual for small biz
By Perla Lena
ILOILO CITY—The University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) launched its participatory food safety manual tailored for food service micro, small and medium enterprises on Friday.
“This is very needed and relevant, not just because Iloilo City is a gastronomic city. It’s very relevant for business owners,” Dr. Johannes Magpusao, dean of the School of Technology and the project leader, said in an interview. The manual, available in both English and Hiligaynon, features four main sections: facilities, personal hygiene, cleaning and sanitation, and process control. Designed specifically for small food enterprises and street food vendors, the manual uses direct, simple language and hand-painted images to make it accessible and engaging.
“The manual is tailored towards smaller businesses and street-food
vendors. It’s direct to the point. It’s full of images, hand-painted images, to make it interesting and engaging to the reader,” she added.
She emphasized that they are not a policing body, so they can only recommend, and their role is only information and dissemination. Ideally, though, the target groups are supposed to follow what is in the manual.
The project began in 2023 in partnership with local government units (LGUs) of Iloilo City, Oton (known for carinderias), and Dumangas (famous for seafood).
It included surveys on food handlers’ knowledge and practices, followed by training sessions for business operators. Free copies were distributed to food handlers and LGUs.
UPV is seeking partners to help print and distribute future editions for wider impact.
UPV Chancellor Clement Camposano, in his message during the launch, said the project will impact livelihood. PNA
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in collaboration with the Korea Trade Network (KTNET), conducted a regional roadshow and training session on the Philippine Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Integrated Platform at Hotel Marciano on May 20.
This roadshow supports the development and implementation of the Philippine FTA Integrated Platform Project. It aims to simplify and digitalize processes for Filipino exporters, enhancing their access to tariff preferences and helping them fully maximize the benefits of FTAs in global markets.
The full-day session convened exporters, trade stakeholders, and business representatives from across the region. It was designed to enhance their understanding of the country’s preferential trade agreements and enable them to fully benefit from these opportunities.
Throughout the session, participants gained valuable insights into the country’s Free Trade Agreements, including the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). They received a
live demonstration of the FTA Information Portal and were introduced to the soon-to-be-launched FTA Origin Management System, complete with a step-by-step walkthrough of its features. Additionally, attendees learned about data management procedures and the online application process for the Product Evaluation Report (PER).
The FTA Integrated Platform comprises two main components: the FTA Information Portal and the FTA Origin Management System. The portal serves as a comprehensive online resource, providing updated information on the Philippines’ FTAs and practical guidelines on how exporters can leverage these agreements.
Scheduled for launching in June, the FTA Origin Management System
will streamline the application process for the PER, a crucial requirement for accessing FTA benefits. This will be a significant milestone in DTI’s ongoing efforts to support local businesses and strengthen their participation in international trade.
In her remarks, DTI Region 4 Director Marissa Argente thanked the event partners, while highlighting the roadshow’s role in empowering exporters.
The event concluded with an open forum, giving participants the opportunity to provide feedback and share suggestions to further enhance the platform.
“This roadshow is an essential part of our commitment to empower Filipino exporters with the tools and knowledge they need to be competitive in the global market,” said Christian Ted Tungohan, Provincial Director of DTI Laguna.
“We thank our partners for making this roadshow happen as we aim to equip our exporters with the right knowledge and digital tools to fully harness the benefits of our FTAs. We hope to empower them and strengthen their global competitiveness and trade performance,” RD Argente stated. The program also featured a hands-on training segment where participants were encouraged to register and create their exporter dashboards, allowing them to familiarize themselves with the platform’s tools and resources.
WB-funded project modernizes banana chips processing in Leyte
By Sarwell Meniano
TACLOBAN CITY—A P237-
million World Bank (WB)-
funded project will modernize banana chips processing in three Leyte towns, turning small-scale farming into a sustainable and profitable enterprise.
Under the project, dubbed the Eastern Visayas Banana Processing and Marketing Enterprise (EVBPME), the Omaganhan Farmers Agrarian Reform Cooperative (OFMPC) based in Tabango, Leyte, will consolidate banana produce from 27 farmer clusters, comprising 679 members across the towns of Villaba, Tabango, and San Isidro.
“These farmers will supply raw cardaba bananas to a modern pro -
cessing facility in Villaba, which uses automated banana chip processing technology and adheres to international food safety standards,” the Department of Agriculture (DA) regional office here said in a statement on Tuesday.
The EVBPME is one of the officially approved initiatives under the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP), marking a breakthrough in the local banana industry.
Of the P237 million investment, WB will provide a P142 million loan while the balance will be shared by the Philippine government and the OFMPC.
Established in 1989 as a multipurpose savings and credit cooperative, OFMPC has grown into a key player in regional agriculture. The group ini-
tially ventured into banana production in 2013 despite facing setbacks due to typhoons and market shifts.
The project is expected to generate 107 jobs during the operational phase and an additional 132 jobs through infrastructure development.
Beneficiaries’ incomes are projected to increase from P20,887 to P24,937 in the first year of operations, culminating in an average annual income increase of P64,020 over a 10-year period, according to DA.
While at the
Sales leaders are not normal people
THAT’S right! Sales leaders are not normal people, because they are extraordinary. And it takes a lot of guts and perseverance to successfully become one. Just imagine dealing with rejections and objections amidst increasing sales goals and growing team concerns, just to name a few. And all of these within a backdrop of a continuously evolving business landscape. That’s too much stress for a normal person to handle. Yet it’s just an everyday thing for the extraordinary breed of people called Sales Leaders. Stress can be debilitating for most. In fact, this word is often associated with our mental and emotional well-being, to a point where there are people who wants to escape a life with stress. But that’s really not possible because it is an everyday thing. Yes, whether we
like it or not, there is always stress.
So what’s the secret to thriving in a life filled with it? Here are three Sales Leaders’ tips to become extraordinary amidst stress.
Acknowledge the stress, then address REMEMBER , the only way to address a problem is to first acknowledge that it exists. Since we cannot escape it, the first thing to do is to accept that there is stress. Determine the cause, along with its symptoms and the usual timing that it occurs. You will soon discover that there is a pattern to every stress, and that there are a lot of options in addressing it at every level. There was a time when I was so stressed at work that it manifested through alopecia—I was losing patches of hair which caused even
more stress. The doctor gave medicines but nothing worked, until I realized that the problem was stress. So I went to my barber and got rid of the problem by shaving my head. I addressed it by stressing the stressor one step at a time.
Manage your mindset
THERE are actually two types of stress—distress or the negative type and eustress which is the positive kind. Exactly, stress is not always the enemy! There is positive or good stress like those that you feel when playing sports, riding a rollercoaster, moving to a new home or traveling.
All you need to do is to prepare for the event and simply enjoy the journey. Have fun dealing with it. By the way, most of our stress in life is eustress. On the other hand, distress is usually associated with overwhelming personal, emotional circumstance. The ideal approach to manage this type is to take a little breather and get back to your deepest why. Take note that our mind responds to life-changing decisions whenever it encounters extreme stress. Hence, choose to make your stress work to your advantage and bear in mind that the right mindset is essential in effectively dealing with any kind of stress.
It’s either you face stress to become successful in life or choose to avoid it and live a miserable life. Sales leaders choose to face it daily.
That’s makes them extraordinary. You too have a choice.
Know that stress stimulates success STRESS stimulates success. A study in Stanford University revealed that stress help people become stronger, faster and perform tasks more efficiently. In other words, stress activates our “fight-or-flight” instinct which then releases an energy boost or adrenaline. This enables our minds and bodies to adapt, innovate and overcome the current challenges. In other words, stress puts our minds on overdrive to focus on success. I guess that’s how great innovations come about. And when you think about it, successful people went through a journey characterized by a series of failures before they eventually made it to the top. Truly, stress is integral to success. One last thing. Whenever you experience stress, know that the battle is the Lord’s. You got this because He got you. God bless!
THE University of the Philippines Visayas launches its participatory food safety manual during a ceremony held at the Performing Arts Hall in Iloilo City on May 23, 2025. Dr. Johannes Magpusao, dean of the School of Technology and project leader, said the manual is specifically designed for small food businesses and street food vendors. PNA PHOTO BY PGLENA
VARIOUS quality products of Ilocos Norte are available on the lower ground floor of SM City Laoag from May 30 to June 12, 2025. Dubbed “Treasures of the North,” the exhibit was the product of close cooperation between the Department of Trade and Industry and the Partuat ti Kailokuan Marketing Cooperative. PNA PHOTO BY LEILANIE ADRIANO
THE banana chips produced by the Omaganhan Farmers Agrarian Reform Cooperative in Tabango, Leyte, in this undated photo.
Image
YOU SHOULD WEAR SUNSCREEN EVEN IF YOU HAVE DARKER SKIN. HERE’S WHY
NEW YORK—People with darker skin still need to wear sunscreen—for more reasons than one. Too much ultraviolet exposure from the sun can lead to sunburn, dark spots and wrinkles, and increased risk of skin cancer.
The melanin in darker skin offers some extra protection from the sun, but dermatologists say that isn’t enough on its own. “Everyone needs sunscreen. But the reasons that one might be reaching for sunscreen may differ depending on your skin tone,” said Dr. Jenna Lester, who founded the Skin of Color Clinic at the University of California, San Francisco.
DO DARKER-SKINNED PEOPLE NEED SUNSCREEN?
WHITE people are overall more likely to get skin cancer compared to Black and Hispanic people. But Black and Hispanic people are less likely to survive the most dangerous kind of skin cancer called melanoma, according to the American Cancer Society.
Black patients more commonly get melanoma on their hands and feet—places that are more shielded from the sun. Still, sunscreen is an additional protective layer that helps prevent a host of other problems including sunburns, hyperpigmentation after acne, rosacea and dark patches on the face. Dr. Oyetewa Asempa at Baylor College of Medicine often reminds her darker-skinned patients: “All of the problems that you’re coming to see me for are caused or worsened by the sun.”
HOW MUCH SUNSCREEN DO PEOPLE OF COLOR NEED?
TO stay safe in the sun, it’s important to grab sunscreen with a sun protection factor or SPF of at least 30 and reapply every two hours. People headed for the pool or beach should put on sunscreen beforehand, remembering to reapply liberally and after getting out of the water. Most people don’t wear enough sunscreen when they apply, Lester said. Make sure to put two long fingers’ worth on the face and a hefty blob for the body. Look for chemical-based sunscreens to avoid ashy white cast. Two key ingredients in mineral-based products—zinc oxide and titanium oxide—are the culprits for that pesky discoloration on dark skin. Tinted sunscreens contain pigments that block visible light from the sun, offering additional protection against dark spots. And wearing a hat or sun-protective clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor or UPF grading can provide an extra safety boost. Whatever the sun protection routine, it’s important to keep it up, Lester said. Some UV rays can climb right through car and house windows to cause sun damage even when indoors, making it even more important to take care of the skin while the sun shines.
“It’s about trying to make it a daily habit,” she said. “Consistency over intensity.” AP
Breaking out of your shell
EVERYONE feels shy sometimes, but for introverts it often runs deeper due to their inward focus. While this can make communication harder, they are also known for their empathy, reflection, and a good capacity for listening. Shyness is not a flaw but a natural trait that can be managed with the right approach. With some understanding and practical tools, introverts can communicate more comfortably in both social and professional settings.
One of the most common struggles introverts and shy people face is speaking up in group settings. Meetings, brainstorming sessions, and casual group conversations can feel overwhelming when others are quick to speak or dominate the discussion.
Introverts tend to process information internally, and by the time they have formulated a response, the conversation may have moved on. To address this, preparation is key. Reviewing the agenda ahead of time and preparing a few points or questions help introverts feel more confident entering the discussion. It is also helpful to set small goals, like contributing at least once during a meeting, which can
Another challenge is overthinking before responding, which makes introverts hesitate to talk during conversations. Introverts often want to carefully choose their words, which can be misinterpreted as uncertainty or lack of confidence. While their thoughtfulness is a strength, it can become a barrier if it prevents them from engaging in the moment.
Practicing mindfulness and becoming comfortable with imperfection can be useful here. Learning to give an appropriate response instead of the perfect one can ease anxiety. Using transitional phrases like “That is an interesting question, here is what I am thinking...” or “I would like to think about that more, but my initial thought is...” can buy time to reflect while still showing engagement and confidence.
Introverts also struggle with small talk, finding it shallow or draining. Unlike extroverts who often thrive on social energy, introverts tend to prefer meaningful, in-depth conversations. However, small talk serves an important social function because it builds familiarity and trust. Rather than avoiding it entirely, introverts can reframe small talk as a way to deeper connection.
Preparing a few conversation starters can ease the discomfort. Asking open-ended questions like “What is something you are excited about this week?” or “How did you get started in your field?” can turn surface-level chat into more engaging conversations. Over time, small talk becomes less of a chore and more of a tool for connection.
Self-promotion is another common area of discomfort. Many introverts shy away from talking about their accomplishments, fearing they will come across as boastful or self-serving. Unfortunately, this can lead to being overlooked, especially in competitive professional environments. A practical way to approach self-promotion is to shift the focus
from self-praise to impact. Rather than saying, “I am good at managing teams,” an introvert could say, “The team I managed exceeded our target last quarter, and I think my approach to coaching and feedback played a big role.” This frames achievements in terms of measurable outcomes, making the communication feel more grounded and credible. It also helps to keep a running list of accomplishments, which can serve as a confidence booster and a reference point when speaking about one’s contributions.
Finally, introverts often experience communication fatigue, especially after prolonged social interaction. Unlike extroverts who recharge through social engagement, introverts tend to expend energy during these interactions and need solitude to recharge. Without managing this energy, introverts can feel mentally depleted, leading to withdrawal or burnout.
To mitigate this, it is important to set boundaries and take time to recover. This might involve scheduling quiet time after meetings, choosing smaller social gatherings over large events, or even excusing oneself from conversations when feeling overstimulated. Additionally, introverts can leverage alternative communication channels, like email, messaging apps, or written reports that allow them to express themselves without the pressure of an immediate response.
In the end, communication does not have to be loud or fast to be effective. Introverts have a natural ability to connect meaningfully, think deeply, and speak with purpose. The key is to understand their communication style and develop strategies that support rather than suppress it. With a little planning and self-awareness, introverts can navigate their communication challenges while staying true to who they are, and in the process make their voice heard in a way that feels both authentic and impactful. ■
Design innovators create leather from algae, banana waste
FUELED by their shared goal to revolutionize the leather industry through sustainable and bio-based materials, a group of design innovators teamed up to transform algae and banana waste into a nature-forward alternative.
Tal de Guzman, founder and CEO of Risqué Designs, has long utilized local textiles and leather through her brand.
While the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Fashion Design and Merchandising educator’s fascination with plant-based alternatives began years ago, it was not until Micca Amor, her former student and the creative director of Love, Amor Studios, and Vinz Mamalateo, founder and CEO of PhilipAnaban, both reached out to her that the project started to fall into place. During these separate encounters, her guidance was sought by the young visionaries on their respective creative explorations—Amor on her pursuit to develop algae-based bioplastics and Mamalateo on his banana leather project. What started as mentorship evolved into a meaningful collaboration—and eventually, into Konstratá, a forwardthinking start-up which converts agricultural waste into bio-based leather. Konstratá means with layers. And their tagline—“Fibers Don’t Hide”— echoes their elevated advocacy to promote natural and bio-based layered substitutes to animal hide.
“Plant-based was first introduced to us as food, and then for clothing,” de
Guzman shared. “It does not only improve our quality of life but also our way of living.”
we embrace the natural beauty of plantbased fibers,” Amor explained. “We believe it gives our products their own texture and character.”
proud partnership with Villa Socorro Farm, a community-driven enterprise which provides banana fibers and peel wastes.
“More than just a source of raw materials, they represent the kind of impact we strive for—empowering local communities, promoting sustainable practices, and growing a movement
innovation—we champion the people and
seek mindful materials for fashion and apparel—from garments and shoes to bags and accessories, as well as home and lifestyle items, to include furniture accents, décor, and interior trims.
It likewise offers an eco-conscious substitute for crafting and packaging.
“Konstratá redefines what leather can be—not an imitation, but a new
standard in sustainable material innovation,” they continued.
“This is just the beginning,” they further explained. “As we grow, we envision expanding our offerings to serve both consumer and industrial markets looking for ethical, high-performance materials.”
The trio understands the real impact comes from education, innovation and collaboration. They look forward to partnering with creators and brands to integrate sustainability into their processes and products, whether by bringing their visions to life by customizing the plant-powered leather, or by introducing special projects and capsule collections.
advocacy.
In their campaign, Mamalateo expounded on the crucial role of sponsors in their pursuit to build a future where the qualities of leather do not need to come at the expense of animals—or the planet.
“We believe that our backers are more than just supporters—they are an essential part of our story and mission,” he noted. “You are not only helping us grow—you are actively participating in a journey toward a greener, more ethical world.”
More information can be found at www.instagram.com/konstrataleather and tinyurl.com/nt59mf5x.
Among their objectives is to forge strategic tie-ups with schools, non-government organizations, and local communities to further spread awareness on the importance of waste-to-resource. They likewise support livelihood through responsible sourcing.
importance of waste-to-resource. through responsible sourcing.
To further their cause, as well as to foster community engagement, Konstratá took part in the crowdfunding program of the Benilde Hub of Innovation for Inclusion (HiFi) with The Spark Project, which allows them to offer rewards or tokens to those who wish to be part of their
PHOTO BY ANTONIO GABOLA ON UNSPLASH
FROM left: Kontratá Leather co-founders Micca Amor, Tal de Guzman, and Vince Mamalateo
PhilHealth releases over P592M to NKTI in less than 5 months
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) continues to strengthen its commitment to Filipino healthcare by disbursing over P592 million of total claims paid to the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) for the first five months of the year (January 1 to May 21, 2025).
This was disclosed by Acting PhilHealth President and CEO Dr. Edwin M. Mercado during his brief visit to the NKTI last May 28, 2025 to personally ensure that patients undergoing hemodialysis and other renal replacement therapies are getting the most of their health insurance coverage from the state health insurer.
Aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of services, PhilHealth continues to champion its RISE30 Mission ensuring that every Filipino experiences the full benefits and services of PhilHealth through faster claims processing and payment.
“Alinsunod sa prayoridad ng ating Pangulong Bongbong Marcos, Jr., ako ay bumibisita at nakikipagpulong sa mga partner health care facilities para malaman at personal kong makita kung paano natutugunan ang pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayang may sakit, at siguruhing mabilis tayong nakapagbabayad ng mga benefit claims [In line with the priorities of our President Bongbong Marcos, Jr., I am visiting and meeting with partner health care facilities to learn and personally see how the needs of our sick compatriots are being met, and to ensure that we are able to quickly pay benefit claims],” said Dr. Mercado.
According to NKTI, approximately one Filipino develops chronic renal failure every hour, translating to about 120 Filipinos per million population annually. Since 2023,
SOJITZ Fuso Philippines Corporation (SFP), the Philippines’ general distributor of FUSO trucks and buses proudly brought home three international recognitions from the 2025 Daimler Truck Regional Center Southeast Asia (RC SEA) Awards held in Anantara Kalutara Resort, Sri Lanka last May 20, 2025. This marks another milestone where
innovative product offerings and fleet sales initiatives, SFP has captured a large customer base while sustaining product reliability and quality. Network Excellence, on the other hand, honors Daimler Truck SEA’s business partners who have demonstrated outstanding performance and commitment to excellence across all aspects of dealer operations. SFP consistently demonstrates FUSO’s global standards in operational execution, prioritizes continuous organizational development, and customer first initiatives. For CSP Excellence, SFP for three consecutive years has achieved outstanding growth in Customer Service Programs – showcasing the adaptive after-sales initiatives. SFP’s client-centric approach consistently drives customer satisfaction across its dealer network.
Yosuke Nishi, SFP President & CEO, expressed his gratitude for the recognition: “These awards are not
It’s
raining
FActing PhilHealth President and CEO Dr. Edwin M. Mercado visits dialysis patients at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute.
PhilHealth has been continuously enhancing its benefits for members with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Stage 5.
Notably, the coverage for hemodialysis sessions which has expanded from 90 to 156 sessions per year, providing greater support to patients in need. In addition,
PhilHealth significantly increased its Z Benefit Package for Peritoneal Dialysis, offering financial assistance of up to P1.2 million. Its Z Benefit coverage for Kidney Transplantation has also been substantially raised from P600,000 to over P2 million, reflecting PhilHealth’s commitment to improving access to critical kidney care for its members.
In less than five months of this year, PhilHealth has already paid P161 million for hemodialysis procedures alone at NKTI. This highlights a sharp surge in hemodialysis utilization and spending. In FY 2024, hemodialysis was the number 1 Top Paid medical procedure in the country.
“Nakatutok ang PhilHealth sa epekto ng mga pagbabago ng benepisyo na
talagang madama ng mga miyembrong nangangailangan. Kung dati ay nangangamba ang dialysis patients kung matatapos nila ang lahat ng sessions sa isang taon, ngayon tinanggal na natin ‘yan. Bumabalik sila sa PhilHealth na tuwangtuwa, nagpapasalamat.
Nabigyan natin sila ng pag-asa na bukas ulit at sa buong taon, siguradong may dialysis session pa ulit na sagot ng PhilHealth. Ito po ang patunay ng aming misyon na maihatid ang PhilHealth na mabilis, patas, at mapagkakatiwalaan [PhilHealth is focused on the impact of benefit changes that are truly felt by members in need.
If dialysis patients used to worry about whether they would be able to complete all their sessions in a year, now we have eliminated that. They return to PhilHealth very happy and grateful. We have given them hope that tomorrow and throughout the year, PhilHealth will definitely provide another dialysis session. This is proof of our mission to deliver PhilHealth that is fast, fair, and reliable.],” Dr. Mercado emphasized.
ACMobility Launches PHL’s fastest EV Chargers in Makati
ACMOBILITY, leader of electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions and infrastructure in the Philippines, has unveiled its most advanced EV charging stations to date in Makati City—featuring 240 kW SuperFast and 480 kW UltraFast chargers. Installed in partnership with the Makati Commercial Estate Association (MACEA) and Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI), the new high-performance chargers are now operational at the Corinthians Carpark, with the Leviste Carpark set to follow. This marks Makati as a leading city in ACMobility’s growing EV network nationwide.
“Makati has been one of the leading runners in the country when it comes to sustainability. It is also a bustling business and residential district, which altogether makes it the perfect home for our fastest EV chargers yet,” said Carla Buencamino, Head of Mobility Infrastructure of ACMobility.
“With this new offering at the heart of the city, we’re making it easier for more drivers, businesses, families, and communities to access faster and convenient EV charging, right where they need it.”
The Corinthians Carpark station features nine DC CCS2 slots, including four 240 kW chargers (each with dual guns) and one 480 kW UltraFast charger—the fastest in the country. These are capable of charging compatible EVs in as fast as 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the vehicle battery capacity and charging conditions. Equipped with 1000-amp air-cooled cables, the system is engineered for both efficiency and scalability. The site also includes a dedicated pull-through slot to accommodate larger EVs and mini buses, ensuring optimal access and convenience.
This new station is likewise fully integrated with Evro, ACMobility’s all-in-one EV app that streamlines the user journey—from finding available chargers to
‘Dad-ventures’
HERE’S to all of our dads! Our dads who’ve just done a 100km bike ride, and the ones who are snoozing on the couch while watching a Knicks game. Our thrill-seeker dads who are secretly planning a bucket list bungee jump, and our dads who grip the rails tight when they take us on the Ferris wheel. Our dads who cook us gourmet meals, and the ones who still burn the toast. Here’s to our early morning “let’s watch the sunrise” dads, and our night owl “ let’s have sunset drinks” dads. And of course, here’s to our dads who’ve memorized the Frozen and Moana soundtracks. They all deserve an amazing vacation at the Four Points by Sheraton Palawan,
initiating sessions, tracking real-time charging status, and making secure, cashless payments. Evro also provides alerts on network updates, promotions, and new station launches, making it the essential tool for every Filipino EV driver.
Charging is priced at ₱35/kWh, with membership plans offering savings of up to 20 percent. To complement its fixed charging network, ACMobility also recently deployed Power-on-Wheels (POW)—a fleet of mobile DC fast units that bring charging capabilities to areas across Metro Manila that have limited access to charging infrastructure. Makati, along with the cities of Taguig and Mandaluyong, is one of the initial areas where POW can be accessed. More locations will also come in the future including Muntinlupa, Pasay, Pasig, Manila, San Juan and Quezon City. This ensures access to fast, reliable energy, even in high-demand or areas where permanent infrastructure is still being developed. Makati is currently the most electrified city within ACMobility’s
in clean urban transport and its strategic role in the national charging ecosystem. More than that, every charging session at the Corinthian Carpark Station is powered by 100 percent renewable energy through ACMobility’s partnership with ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES), the Ayala Group’s
only a testament to the dedication, hard work, and commitment of our dealer partners and SFP but also the trust and confidence of our valued customers. We are honored and grateful to Daimler Truck SEA for this recognition, it fuels our commitment to strengthening our
OR the first time in the Philippines, the cast of South Korea’s all-male performing group Wild Wild After Party made a blazing entrance in Manila, delivering an explosive mix of dance, athleticism, and pure charismatic musical performance. The highly anticipated show took place on May 24, 2025 at the New Frontier Theater in Manila.
Proudly standing as the event sponsor, BingoPlus, the country’s most comprehensive entertainment platform, amplified the fiery experience with exciting online and on-ground promotions.
Roh Jinwook shared how high and strict the standards are to be cast in the Wild Wild After Party show. “Aside from maintaining a well-toned physique, cast members must also be skilled dancers. Both are essential for sustaining good opportunities and a lasting career in this field,” he said.
Kim Jinwoo expressed his excitement about bringing the show to a diverse Filipino audience. “When we perform in Korea, we usually perform exclusively for
Cast members Han Jinwook, Jung Hansaem, Lee Heejung, Lee Yunje, Roh Jinwook, Kim Jinwoo, Kim Donghee, and Kang Chunil were welcomed by the media at a pre-event press conference on May 21. They gracefully answered questions and gave a sneak peek of the show by performing some of their signature sexy numbers.
female audiences. But here in Manila, we have a special show where we invite both women and men. I’m really looking forward to how that kind of synergy will unfold.”
Kim Donghee extended his gratitude to BingoPlus for supporting their show. “Thanks to BingoPlus, we were able to come to the Philippines. We’ll do our best to give you a great performance and deliver all the energy we can.”
The day was all set for the highly anticipated “Wild Wild After Party” show. Scheduled in two sets, Filipinos got to enjoy a 75-minute all-girls and all-gender performance. BingoPlus invited the press and VIP players to have fun and be entertained by the show.
In the photo are, from left, Christopher B. Maglanoc, Group Head, AyalaLand Estates; Carla Buencamino, Head of Mobility Infrastructure, ACMobility; Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, Chief Executive Officer, ACMobility; Arch. Jojo Tolentino, Treasurer, Makati Central Estate Association.
Sojitz Fuso Philippines Corporation recognized at the Daimler Truck SEA Awards 2025
Performers of the “Wild Wild After Party” show during the pre-event press conference last May 21, 2025 at the Novotel Manila.
Editor: Tet Andolong
BPO industry shows resilience despite global challenges
By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio
DESPITE global challenges such as rising protectionism in the post-Trump era, the Philippine outsourcing industry remains a robust pillar of economic stability, according to a major property management consulting firm.
In a recent press briefing, Cushman and Wakefield director and head, consulting and research Claro Cordero Jr. said business organizations are naturally driven by the need to manage risks, diversify operations, and achieve cost efficiency, and believe in outsourcing as a strategic solution. “This resilience has spurred growth in retail-focused BPO firms, particularly as established brands and e-commerce platforms expand their online presence,” said Cordero Jr. in a press briefing held in Taguig city.
Moreover, Cordero said the Philippines continues to attract major business process outsourcing (BPO) firms not only in the voice but also in the higher services category. He added that the country is doing sophisticated value-added outsourcing services like medical transcription, legal
business-process outsourcing, and animation. “Although we’ve been attracting them since you know, 10 years, 15 years ago. But I think we've been highlighted as one of the centers of excellence in that field,” Cordero.
A consistent believer in the Filipino talent
MEANWHILE , a 64-year-old global company continues to be bullish on the Philippine economy as it recently opened another facility as part of their expansion of global operations.
JPMorganChase, a leading global financial services firm, opened the JPMorganChase Center in Uptown Bonifacio, following the JPMorgan Chase & Co Tower in 2022.
“The JPMorganChase Center in Manila represents a bold step forward in redefining the work -
place experience. By integrating cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices and exceptional amenities, we are not only enhancing productivity but also fostering a vibrant community and culture of learning and innovation. This is more than just a building; it's a testament to our commitment to our people and the future of work,” said Bettina Salmo, head of the Corporate Centers in the Philippines.
The sprawling state-of-the-art building spans 43,000 square feet per floor and can accommodate 8,000 seats as a full co-location site. The facility champions sustainability as it is powered entirely by renewable energy courtesy of ACEN.
Ascott Philippines brings fresh perspectives to Cebu with new General Manager
METRO Manila, Philippines—The Ascott Limited, the globally recognized serviced residence and hospitality brand, is delighted to announce the appointment of a new General Manager to its well-loved, well-appointed properties in Cebu. Multi-awarded hotelier Angelo Ascue takes on the title as he looks to build upon and further innovate Citadines Cebu City and lyf Cebu City in time for the 25th anniversary of Ascott Philippines this year.
The young yet seasoned Ascue serves as the youngest appointed General Manager for Ascott Philippines at 34 years old, with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry. In 2023, he was awarded “Manager of the Year” during his tenure with Robinsons Hotels and Resorts group. Ascue’s leadership style was also recognized by the renowned Association of Human Resources Managers in the Hospitality Industry (AHRM), which honors the Filipino brand of service excellence.
“It is a true honor to be able to lead key properties of Ascott Philippines in the dynamic market of Cebu,” says Ascue, whose multi-faceted background in the hospitality industry spans the front office and F&Brelated operations, to go with his exper-
THE Ascott Limited names Angelo Ascue, 34, as its youngest appointed General Manager, set to lead Citadines Cebu City and lyf Cebu City.
tise in hotel events, sales, and marketing.
“I am eager to contribute to the continued success of Citadines Cebu City and lyf Cebu City, especially on this milestone year for the organization, celebrating a quarter century of excellence.”
The Ascott Limited turns 25 this year in the Philippines, marking a momentous milestone for the international brand in the country. The organization lists 17 properties under its name across five time-tested brands in Ascott, Oakwood,
Citadines, Somerset, and lyf. Since its establishment in 2000, Ascott Philippines has always pushed the boundaries of what guests can expect from curated service experiences, from upscale modern amenities to one-of-a-kind Filipino hospitality. On its silver anniversary this year, Ascott Philippines looks to reach new heights. The organization extends its unique brand of accommodations and service experiences nationwide, from bustling urban cityscapes to scenic yet modern island destinations. Two such star properties are those now under the leadership of Ascue, Citadines Cebu City and lyf Cebu City, which are strategically located in the heart of the Queen City of the South.
Citadines Cebu City offers serviced apartments in studio, one-bedroom, and loft styles, along with modern amenities, for a personalized experience enjoyed by both leisure and business travelers. Meanwhile, the chic and dynamic lyf Cebu City in Midtown Cebu presents experiencedriven social living with distinctive areas like the Say Hi check-in and reception, Bond and Chill for relaxation and coworking, alongside Burn group workouts. Room layouts include One of a Kind, Side by Side, and All Together.
Salmo says the facility enhances the employee experience with advanced collaboration spaces, including huddle rooms with dual screens and interactive digital boards for real-time brainstorming. The cafeteria offers diverse cuisines and healthy options and a welcoming hospitality experience at its conference center. It supports employee well-being and productivity, including destress areas, work cafés, hydration stations, a clinic and arcade game areas.
"JPMorganChase has been doing business in the country since 1961 and maintains the corporate center with over 20,000 employees providing strategic support to the bank's global operations.”
PHL retail set for full
recovery
IT is obvious that the Philippine retail sector is getting back to full health from the establishment of new foreign retail brands to the expansion of existing brands, there’s no doubt that physical mall space take up has been reverting to pre-covid levels, resulting in lower Metro Manila retail vacancy and recovery in lease rates, especially in the more established business hubs that are recording brisk recovery.
Colliers is projecting mall vacancy to revert to pre-covid level by end2026, indicative of Filipinos’ rising propensity to shop inside physical malls. More malls have been lined up for completion beyond 2025 and these will also be located in thriving localities outside of Metro Manila. This proves that foreign brands are keeping an eye on key cities for expansion outside the capital region.
To continue locking in retail opportunities, mall developers should ramp up efforts in offering refreshed retail spaces and explore the viability of housing more popular retail segments that also absorb humongous retail space, including brands from home furnishing and personal accessory segments.
Maximize refreshed mall space within and outside Metro Manila
MALL developers and retailers have been ramping up the upgrading of mall spaces across Metro Manila and we believe that this will contribute to greater brick-and-mortar mall space absorption in the next 12 to 24 months.
Mall developers have been earmarking billions of pesos (P13 to P21 billion or USD235 to USD379 million) to develop and refresh physical retail spaces and
we believe that this is timely given that the mall sector within and outside Metro Manila has been recovering well post-Covid. Some developers even report that consumer traffic is now greater than pre-Covid level. This is also an opportune time for operators and their retailers to aggressively promote their renovated spaces and entice more mallgoers to stay longer and spend more within retail centers.
This recommendation also applies for malls being built and upgraded outside of the capital region. Rockwell will open Power Plant Malls in Angeles City and Bacolod City in 2027 while SM and Ayala Malls are setting their sights on key cities including Cebu, Davao, Iloilo and Bacolod where new malls will be opened and renovated between 2025 and 2028.
The shift to suburbia has become more pronounced. Colliers data proves that property firms have been expanding their residential footprint outside of Metro Manila and in our opinion, developers should complement these projects with the ideal size of retail component.
Assess the viability of housing popular consumer segments FOOD and beverage (F&B) is likely to cover about 45 percent of new retailers that will occupy new mall space in Metro Manila over the next 12 months. But what has been evident over the past few quarters has been the ability of major developers including Ayala and SM to bring major home personal accessory and home furnishing brands including IKEA, Anko, Flying Tiger, Nitori, etc. Colliers believes that there’s tremendous opportunities for these brands to expand within and outside Metro Manila given the rising retail footfall, growing purchasing power of Filipinos even in Areas Outside the National Capital Region (AONCR), and redevelopment plans in the more established business hubs including Makati CBD In our view, mall operators should further assess the viability of opening similar brands and concepts in AONCR and check if these markets are indeed ready to welcome these major foreign brands that also occupy massive retail spaces, resulting in greater brick-and-mortar space absorption. Overall, Colliers is optimistic that Metro Manila mall vacancy will revert to pre-covid level by end-2026. We attribute this to greater absorption of mall space (due partly to take-up from large retailers including foreign home furnishing brands) and managed level of new retail completion. With a more favorable retail environment supported by slowing inflation, Colliers sees greater physical mall space absorption moving forward and we see developers with massive retail footprint benefiting from the segment’s robust growth prospects.
CONDUCTING the ceremonial ribbon-cutting were executives from JPMorganChase (from left): Deepak Mangla, CEO of India and Philippines Corporate Centers; David Beck, Chief Administrative Officer; Michelle Silwonuk, Head of Operations, International r Banking; Bettina Salmo, Head of the Corporate Centers in the Philippines; Carlos Ma. Mendoza, Senior Country Officer, Philippines; Dan Wilkening, CAO of Global Banking and Head of Global Services; and Julie Harris, CAO and Global Head of Operations for Asset and Wealth Management Operations.
WELLNESS
Kristine-Kayla show on Day 1 in Antipolo Sports
KRISTINE FLEETWOOD and Kayla Nocum surged to the top with identical one-under-par 70s at the challenging Nicklaus course as surprises marked the first round of the International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) Forest Hills Classic in Antipolo City on Tuesday. Fleetwood, unaccustomed to leading a Ladies Philippine Golf Tour (LPGT), found herself in unfamiliar territory after an eagle on the par-five 16th powered her to a strong backside 34. She carded three clutch birdies to offset four bogeys to salvage a 36-34 round.
“I t was quite a relief,” said Fleetwood, describing her eagle, which came after a superb 5-iron second shot to within six feet. “I was trying to save pars coming in but started putting pressure on myself. After each bogey, I just tried to cover it up with a birdie.”
Fleetwood, who placed 13th and 24th in the first two LPGT events at Pradera Verde and Eagle Ridge, respectively, said she was surprised by her own performance—her roller-coaster frontside finish of birdie-bogey-birdie-bogey-bogey-birdie-bogey illustrated the tightrope she walked en route to the lead.
“I just want to make more putts and save pars on holes
where I miss the green in regulation,” said Fleetwood, as she credited her support system, especially her mother, for her surprise first-round performance.
Nocum matched Fleetwood’s effort with a bogeyfree 70 built on consistency and calm execution—she birdied the par-five 10th, her starting hole, despite a faulty drive as she hit a superb third shot from 195 yards set up a 12-foot make.
“I hit a lot of fairways and gave myself good birdie looks, but the putts just wouldn’t drop,” said Nocum, who tempered her expectations because of an ankle injury she sustained two weeks prior. “Honestly, I didn’t think I’d even be able to play. I was just focusing on staying steady and playing my game.”
L urking just one shot behind is Mafy Singson, one of the tour’s rising stars, carded an even-par 71 after offsetting two bogeys with birdies on Nos. 13 and 16 to lurk one shot behind the leaders.
Coming off a playoff win over Florence Bisera at Eagle Ridge last March, Singson remained a serious threat in the P1 million championship organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc.
C lose behind at one-over-par 72 were seasoned contenders Chanelle Avaricio and Princess Superal, while Gretchen Villacencio also
thrust herself into early contention with a gutsy opening round. Avaricio, once a dominant force before campaigning in the US, overcame a costly triple bogey on No. 12 by carding three birdies and a bogey, showcasing her resilience, while Superal, who previously reigned on the local circuit before shifting focus to the Japan tour, likewise stayed within striking distance with a steady round highlighted by a birdie against two bogeys.
V illacencio also put herself in the mix despite a double bogey on No. 11, thanks to two birdies and a bogey, eyeing her first tour breakthrough.
Eagle-spiked 65 propels Quiban to 1st rd lead
JUSTIN QUIBAN returned to local action from an overseas campaign with flair by carding an eagle-spiked six-under-par 65 to wrest the first-round lead in the International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) Forest Hills Classic in Antipolo City on Tuesday.
On a break from the Asian Tour and International Series, Quiban made the most of ideal scoring conditions early in the day at the Nicklaus layout and opened with two birdies and punctuated his charge with an eagle-3 on the par-five 10th.
Despite a bogey on the tight par-four 12th, he birdied three of the last five holes for a 33-32 scorecard on the par-71 course.
Tom Marcelo and seasoned Guido van der Valk matched 66s for joint second.
“I didn’t really expect to lead, but my game has been trending in the right direction,” Quiban said. “I just committed to every shot and trusted my game. The outcome just happened to put me in the lead.”
Despite lacking “local knowledge” of the Forest Hills terrain, Quiban credited mental discipline and shot-by-shot
60 aspirants in PVL rookie draft; Fil-Am setter attracts sanctions
IT’S all systems go for the second Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Draft this weekend with 60 aspirants— majority of them from the collegiate ranks—hoping to be picked by the professional leagues 12 teams.
PVL president Ricky Palou and commissioner and control committee chair Sherwin Malonzo made the announcement on Tuesday during the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum at the Conference Room of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. Malonzo said that this Sunday’s draft at the Novotel Hotel inside the Araneta City in Cubao features 25 prospects from the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, 15 from the National Collegiate Athletic Association, seven foreign-based players and the rest from all over the country including Tarlac and Baguio City. These rookies to be are bigger and taller and stronger, thus giving the teams a wide array of choices,” Malonzo told the forum presented by San Miguel Corp.. Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Milo, Smart/PLDT and ArenaPlus.
Alohi Robins-Hardy, a 29-year-old Filipino-American setter from Hawaii, meanwhile, attracted controversy after declaring publicly that she’ll only play for Farm Fresh.
“ We will not allow that. She cannot choose the team she wants to play for,” Palou said. “She has to go through the draft.” Palou added that Robin-Hardy would certainly be penalized by the league if she refuses to play for the team which picks her in the draft.
“There will be sanctions,” Palou said. “Once a team drafts you, you have to play for that team or you won’t play at all.”
Farm Fresh is selecting at No. 3 overall in the first round behind Capital1 Solar and Galeries Tower, while at No. 4 is Nxled. S electing at No. 5 is Zus Coffee followed by Cignal, Choco Mucho, Cherry Tiggo, PLDT, Akari, Petro Gazz and Creamline.
commitment for his stellar round.
Just one small doubt here and you could hit it off-line, lose a ball, or worse, make double,” said the three-time Philippine Golf Tour leg winner. “So staying committed was the key.”
Despite coming off a lengthy break from Tour action, van der Valk showed no signs of rust and opened with backto-back birdies and added five more against a lone bogey to match Quiban’s six-under card.
But his strong run unraveled slightly on the 18th where a misjudged approach led to a closing bogey and cost him a share of the lead.
“I hit the middle of the fairway but got the wind wrong,” the Dutchman said. “I hit it good to start with but not quite sure where my game would be.”
Marcelo, meanwhile, recovered from three early bogeys with a birdie barrage, including three straight from No. 5, to secure a share of second.
The Marikina City bet, who missed the cut in the first two legs of the circuit organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments
I got a bit nervous,” he said. “But after that slump, my game settled down.”
Editor: Jun Lomibao
Defending champion Keanu Jahns and Jeffren Lumbo trailed by one with 67s, while a host of challengers lurked just one to three strokes back. Jahns, who scored his breakthrough win here last year, matched par at the front but rallied with four birdies at the back, while Lumbo impressed early with a four-under 32 but cooled off with a pair of bogeys against two birdies coming home.
R eymon Jaraula stood at solo sixth at 68 after a roller-coaster round that included a double bogey and an eagle on No. 16, while club pro Randy Garalde used his familiarity with the rolling layout to notch a 69, and a slew of others, including Rupert Zaragosa, Carl Corpus, Luis Bagtas, and two Japanese bets—Junichi Katayama and Atsushi Ueda—carded 70s to stay in the hunt.
Other notable names, however, found the going tough—hampered either by a lengthy layoff or a dip in form.
Mirra in upset victory
Russia’s Mirra Andreeva, 18, celebrates her fourth-round victory over No. 17 Australia’s Daria Kasatkina, 7-5, 6-3, at the French Open at Roland-Garros in Paris on Monday. AP
National juniors tennis tourney draws big field
MORE than 200 promising young players are seeing action in the inaugural Fortheo National Juniors Tennis Championships that kick off Thursday at the Jethro Sports Center in Valenzuela City.
The two-week tournament— organized by Palawan PawnshopPalawan Express Pera Padala (PPSPEPP) and backed by Fortheo, a leading brand in portable power solutions— features separate weeks for boys’ and girls’ competitions to accommodate the overwhelming number of entries.
ABy Josef Ramos
REMATCH between Olympian
Charly Suarez and World Boxing Organization (WBO) super featherweight champion Emmanuel Navarrete is now in the works after the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) declared their title bout last May 10 in San Diego, California, a no contest.
Atty. Juan Miguel Yambao, Suarez’s legal adviser, confirmed the CSAC’s decision to BusinessMirror on Tuesday saying the commission declared Navarrete’s bloody cut over his left eyebrow was from a legal punch and not a headbutt.
“It was a no contest ruling from CSAC, so their fight is no longer be in the record books,” said Yambao, a member of Suarez’s camp that—met with the CSAC headed by commissioner Dr. AnnMaria De Mars—included manager Ric Navalta and head coach Delfin Boholst.
The CSAC decision prompted the WBO to automatically order for a rematch between the 36-year-old Philippine Army Private First Class Suarez and Navarrete this year.
“The video evidence showed that it was a legal punch,” the CSAC said in a statement. “However, we believe that it would be fair for all parties to rule a no contest under the circumstances.”
A s a result, Suarez kept his unblemished 18-0 win-loss card with 10
T he boys’ division will run from June 5 to 8, while the girls’ matches are scheduled for June 12 to 16 starting with the 10-and-under to 18-and-under categories.
The boys’ tournament has a 32-player draws in the 12-, 14-, 16-, and 18-and-under categories.
“ With more than 200 participants, we had to split the boys’ and girls’ events into separate weeks,” said Bobby Mangunay, PPS-PEPP sports program and development director. “This format ensures all matches receive the attention and organization they deserve.”
knockouts while Navarrete, currently serving a medical suspension from the CSAC, remained at 39-2-1 win-loss-draw record with 30 knockouts. The referee of the fight, American Edward Collantes—who awarded the victory to Navarrete declaring the cut as a result of a headbutt—remained suspended. Suarez said he respects the decision and would prepare for the rematch.
“M y team pushed for a reversal of the technical decision win for Navarrete into a TKO win in my favor,” Suarez said. “While this is not the result that we wanted, I believe this is still a positive outcome.”
“I’m ready for a rematch. I hope Navarrete takes the fight because we have unfinished business to settle,” he said. Fi ght promoter Top Rank, through vice president Carl Moretti, said it would honor the WBO request for an immediate rematch, while Suarez’s manager, former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson, accepted the commission’s verdict but maintained his ward was cheated.
“It is not the decision that we wanted and what Charly deserved,” Singson said. “We still believe that Charly was cheated. But we will abide by the decision.”
We will prepare for the rematch. Charly wants the rematch,” he said. “The fans want to see that happen. Anytime soon and we are ready.”
Leading the charge in the premier boys’ division are brothers Frank and France Dilao, Gavin Kraut, Jonathan Higa,
The
to Los Angeles in their 2000 clash—an expected ending simply because the Lakers had the league’s deadliest duo then in Shaq O’Neal and the late Kobe Bryant.
“It is really a special thing that happened 25 years ago, I wasn’t even six months old,” said Haliburton after Indiana’s series-clinching victory over New York. “So, it’s really special what we’re doing, and we’re just trying to keep making this a special place, a place where people want to come.” But venue for Game 1 could be hostile territory for Indiana as Oklahoma City (OKC) plays host in the opener, with the Thunder also hosting Games 2, 5 and 7 (if necessary). Haliburton’s counterpart is the prolific Shai “SGA” Gilgeous-
KRISTINE FLEETWOOD watches the flight of her ball as Kayla Nocum prepares to putt in the first round on Monday. NONIE REYES
SUAREZ
Karl Almiron, Prince Cuenza, Julio Naredo and Kier Manuel.
16-and-under category has top seeds Almiron, Cuenza and Naredo battling it out with Jacob Gonzales, Matteo Calingasan, Felizardo Lota III, Kenji Kue and Javier Roque. In the 14-and-under class, the spotlight is on Calingasan, Gonzales, Dean Palaroan, Tyronne Caro, Gabriel Vitaliano, Arjun Chan-Halady, Ben Rañeses and Kenji Kue.
JUSTIN QUIBAN and his caddie are making sure this one goes to the hole. NONIE REYES
