BusinessMirror June 26, 2026

Palace bent on hiking infraspend to lift growth

By Samuel P. Medenilla

HE Marcos administration will double down on its strategy of increasing government spending in the second half of the year with hopes of boosting economic growth, which continues to slow down due to persistent economic effects of the Middle East crisis, unfinished infrastructure projects, and “political noise.”

This will be on top of government efforts to generate more economic activity by bringing in more investments in the country.

Citing the Department of Bud-

get and Management (DBM), Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the government needs to continue spending to help the country achieve its growth targets.

“Looking ahead, the government intends to pursue strategic, high-quality public investments supported by stronger project preparation, integrated infrastructure master planning and improved budget execution to sustain long-term growth,” she said in Filipino in a press briefing.

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) slowed down to 2.8 percent during the first quarter of the year from 3 percent in the last quarter of 2025.

The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) said the government downgraded for the second time its projected economic growth this year to 3.5 percent to 4.5 percent. The original growth target was 6 to 7 percent before it was revised to 5 to 6 percent by the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC). This, even after the DBM released around P16.5 billion last March to help accelerate infrastructure spending and P43.18 billion for the programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in May.

DEPDev also reported that P125.2 billion was released to concerned agencies for their response to those affected by the Middle East conflict last April. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the removal of the P250-billion budget from the budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) this year for new flood control projects after he ordered a crackdown on anomalous public works. The investigation disrupted the construction of DPWH’s flood control projects, which underwent much stricter vetting. Earlier this

EXPERTS: NO ALARM IN BUDGET GAP

THEBy Bless Aubrey Ogerio

sive investigation into issues surrounding Philippine Sanjia Steel Corp., saying allegations involving regulatory compliance, product quality, environmental risks, and national security warrant full scrutiny and, if supported by evidence, appropriate legal action. In a joint statement on Thursday, the Federation of Philippine Industries, Global AI Council Philippines, Institute of Corporate Directors, Management Association of the Philippines, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Philippine Iron and Steel Institute said concerns raised

“This

in connection with the company’s facility inside the Phividec Industrial Estate in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, extend beyond an ordinary enforcement case. The groups said what initially emerged as reported regulatory and labor violations has raised broader questions about oversight, governance, and compliance mechanisms that should be examined by the proper authorities.

According to the joint statement, reports surrounding a recent government operation at the facility have raised concerns related to environmental compliance, worker safety, public health, product standards, and national security.

By Bless Aubrey Ogerio

DELAYS in clearing cargo shipments at the country’s main airport are beginning to affect semiconductor manufacturers and other industries that rely on time-sensitive imports, according to the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).

PCCI President Ferdinand Ferrer said cargo clearance performance has deteriorated in recent weeks, extending the time needed for shipments to move through the airport and disrupting supply chains dependent on air freight.

“The clearance is going beyond

three days,” Ferrer told reporters on Thursday morning in Pasay City.

He noted that in 2025, about 95 percent of airport shipments were cleared in less than three days, but the figure has since dropped to around 76 percent.

According to Ferrer, who is also the EMS Group chief executive officer, the slowdown is particularly affecting the semiconductor industry, which relies heavily on imported wafers and other components transported by air.

The Philippines is a major player in semiconductor assembly, testing and packaging, with imported wafers undergoing processing locally

before being shipped to overseas customers.

Ferrer said delays in receiving these inputs could affect manufacturers’ ability to maintain the rapid turnaround times expected by global clients.

“We import the wafers, then it goes here in the Philippines for assembly, test and packaging,” he said.

“The commitments of a very quick turnaround are being affected.”

Aside from semiconductor materials, Ferrer said other storage devices and critical electronic components are also encountering delays. He attributed the bottleneck primarily to warehouse capacity

constraints at the airport.

According to Ferrer, airport authorities have already identified potential temporary storage areas, including facilities across from the airport’s existing cargo operations.

Further, the PCCI chief said industry groups are currently coordinating with airport authorities and other concerned agencies to identify the specific causes of the congestion and implement corrective measures.

“We’re working with the airport authorities on solutions,” he said. However, he declined to estimate the financial impact of the delays, noting that the issue only emerged

By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

MUD, MEMORY, AND DEVOTION Catholic devotees covered in mud and dried banana leaves take part in the annual Mud People Festival in Bibiclat, Aliaga, Nueva Ecija, on the feast day of Saint

Last year, the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) showed that school bullying contributes to learning losses that could cost the economy between P10 billion and P20 billion annually in foregone economic activity.

Researchers also estimated that bullying reduces the country’s gross domestic product growth by 0.05 to 0.08 percentage point due to its impact on educational outcomes.

Digital parenting was also highlighted, with the CPD urging families to engage children in discussions about responsible social media use, respectful online behavior, cyberbullying, and the consumption of digital content.

At the same time, the commission said responsibility for protecting young people cannot rest on families alone.

It called on government agencies, local governments, schools, health providers, civil society groups, faith-based organizations, communities, and the private sector to work together in strengthening youth development programs, mental health services, positive parenting initiatives, and early intervention systems.

“Together, let us reaffirm our shared responsibility to build a Philippines where every child grows up safe, every family is empowered, and every young Filipino is given hope, opportunity, and the chance to realize his or her fullest potential,” it said.

Supply…

in early June.

Ferrer also said discussions with customs and airport officials were scheduled to determine where the processing bottlenecks are occurring and how cargo movement can be accelerated.

GoreBox banned from PHL after deadly school shooting

By Lorenz S. Marasigan

THE Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has blocked access to the violent sandbox game GoreBox in the Philippines, with the ban set to remain in effect until the game’s developer meets a set of child safety requirements.

CICC Undersecretary Renato Paraiso confirmed that GoreBox’s URL has already been blocked and is no longer accessible in the country. The agency has also formally requested both Google Play and Steam to take down the application from their platforms and is monitoring both for compliance.

“The ban is temporary until they

Scrutiny…

Continued from A1

The organizations noted that findings and statements released by certain government agencies have reported the presence of materials and conditions that may pose environmental, occupational, and public health risks. However, they emphasized that such concerns should be assessed through scientific validation, proper regulatory processes, and a complete ex-

comply. The ban will only be lifted once they have shown they have sufficient safety mechanism and that they age appropriate content. They also should set up an office here in the Philippines if they want. But it seems to us that they are now defunct,” he said in a phone interview.

GoreBox was developed by F2Games, which describes the game as “a physicsdriven sandbox game where creativity meets unrestrained destruction.”

It allows players to experiment with various weapons and is known for its graphic depictions of violence.

The CICC is invoking Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act, the law that gives the government authority to keep the internet safe, as

amination of the facts.

They also cited questions regarding the quality and safety of certain steel products, saying these should be evaluated by appropriate technical and regulatory bodies based on verified evidence.

The groups further highlighted national security concerns linked to the facility’s location near strategic military infrastructure.

They expressed support for Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., citing his public statements warning about risks posed by alleged illicit foreign-linked activities operating near a naval installation and an under-construction Navy dry dock.

its legal basis for the action.

The ban follows a deadly school shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, which left three students dead and 20 others injured.

Initial police investigations showed that one of the Grade 9 students involved in the attack was a regular player of GoreBox, a game known for its graphic depictions of weapon-based violence.

“We cannot ignore possible online influences that may have contributed to this tragic incident,” Paraiso said. “Temporarily blocking the game will allow authorities to conduct a thorough

“This is a serious matter involving allegations of possible violations that should be fully investigated and resolved in accordance with law,” the groups said. “Any oversight failures should likewise be reviewed and addressed.”

The organizations declared support for ongoing efforts by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, Department of National Defense, National Bureau of Investigation and Armed Forces of the Philippines to establish the facts surrounding the case.

They called for “timely, coordinated, and lawful investigation” and, where evidence warrants, the prosecution of responsible parties under existing laws.

The groups also urged government agencies to review regulatory compliance systems, industrial safety standards, and

assessment and whether the platform played any role in the actions of the suspects.”

In coordination with the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), the CICC’s Threat Monitoring Center (TMC) has intensified surveillance of online platforms featuring similar content.

Paraiso said the agency’s response extends beyond the GoreBox ban, with broader monitoring efforts aimed at identifying digital spaces that pose risks to young Filipinos.

“We’re reviewing the other platforms from a technical standpoint. We’re prioritizing the widespread, popular ones,” he said.

oversight mechanisms governing operations in sensitive or strategic locations.

In addition, they asked Congress to consider reforms related to national security, public safety, hazardous materials management, labor protection, and regulatory oversight if investigations reveal gaps in existing laws and regulations.

“There must be no undue interference, and all actions should remain guided by evidence, due process, and the public interest,” the organizations said.

The groups added that economic development should not come at the expense of public safety, institutional integrity, or the rule of law, stressing that accountability must be pursued through fair, transparent, and evidence-based processes.

ippines) soft-launched the country’s first Material Flow Analysis (MFA) at PhilEnergy 2026, projecting up to 117 million tons of RE waste by 2075.

contracts representing over 77 gigawatts (GW) of potential capacity.

“Our 10-Year Green Energy Auction Program targets 25 GW of new capacity through 2035. Moreover, the fifth action round is dedicated for offshore wind development, offering 3.3 GW of additional capacity,” added Garin. “Every megawatt of solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal that comes online is a direct contribution to our climate obligations, and another step toward true energy independence,” she stressed.

First MFA soft-launched MEANWHILE, the Responsible Energy Initiative Philippines (REI Phil-

The study, titled The Future Renewable Energy Waste in the Philippines, estimates that the country may generate between 28 and 35.5 million tons of cumulative (RE) waste by 2050, with approximately 75 percent of this accumulating in the final 15 years.

“A truly clean energy transition is not only about what we build. It is also about what we refuse to leave behind. The Philippines is still in the design window, not yet the crisis window,” said Dr. Joey Ocon, Workstream Lead for Circular RE Futures of REI Philippines—Forum for the Future, and coconvenor of the Center for Energy Research and Policy (CERP).

On Thursday, the Philippine peso closed at P61.29 against the dollar, 26 centavos stronger than its previous finish of P61.552 against the greenback on Wednesday, data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) showed. The local currency rebounded on Thursday after its six-day losing streak against the US dollar, which analysts attributed to “renewed” global risk aversion and elevated oil prices, which fueled the demand for the safe-haven US dollar. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2026/06/22/ phl-peso-slides-anew-to61-per-dollar-level/)

well as the political infighting which affected business confidence.

Revenues generated by the government declined by 7.24 percent year-on-year to P401.7 billion from P433.1 billion, weighed down by a 64.22-percent drop in non-tax revenues.

“The decline was largely attributable to lower non-tax collections, following the advance remittance of government-owned and –controlled corporation dividends in the preceding months, which shifted receipts away from their customary May schedule,” the Treasury explained.

Despite this, tax revenue collections held strong, increasing by 12.21 percent year-on-year to P362.3 billion from P322.9 billion.

“[This] tells us the economy and compliance are holding up well, Ravelas said. “The weakness came from non-tax revenues, which are inherently more volatile.” Taxes collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) rose by 15.01 percent to P362.3 billion, supported by the extension of the filing and payment of income tax return deadline to May 15 from April 15.

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) also recorded a 5.71-percent growth in tax collections, which reached P80 billion from P75.7 billion a year ago.

Enhanced valuation practices and improved revenue collection measures helped offset the impact of lower import volumes and the temporary suspension of excise taxes on liquefied petroleum gas and kerosene, the Treasury said.

Meanwhile, government spending in May grew by 3.80 percent to P600.2 billion from P578.2 billion last year.

The increase in spending was due to higher interest payments, the National Tax Allotment shares of local government units, the Annual Block Grant to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and releases for the Local Government Support Fund, the Treasury said.

Direct payments made by development partners to the suppliers or contractors of various foreign-assisted rail transport and road infrastructure projects also drove expenditures for the month.

Primary expenditures, which accounted for 85.50 percent of total disbursements, reached P515.6 billion in May, higher by 1.44 percent from P508.3 billion a year ago. Interest payments, meanwhile, jumped by 20.94 percent year-onyear to P600.2 billion in May from P578.2 billion.

Two risks

THE May deficit, however, puts the spotlight on two risks—whether non-tax revenues rebound and whether spending continues to accelerate, Ravelas said.

“For markets, this is not a red flag yet, but consistency matters. As long as tax revenues stay strong, the fiscal story remains credible.

“But repeated deficit surprises could start to test investor confidence,” he warned.

Year-to-date deficit at P522.5B FROM January to May, the fiscal shortfall was slightly narrower at P522.5 billion by 0.26 percent from P523.9 billion in the comparable period last year.

week, DBM reported that disbursement for infrastructure projects dropped by 45 percent from January to April.

“So, now under the leadership of [DBM] Secretary Kim de Leon, apart from taking precautions, we really need to spend money, especially on infrastructure. Infrastructure spending has decreased because of the issues on the flood control mess,” Castro said.

Aside from the flood control project scandal, government economic managers linked the slowdown in economic growth to the surge in pump prices, a result of tensions in the Middle East, as

On Monday, Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto met with Cabinet members to review utilization of the 2026 General Appropriations Act and to “finalize priority spending for 2027.”

“We need to closely track the execution of the 2026 budget and finalize the 2027 national budget,” Recto said.

“Let us get our act together and ensure that our programs and projects are delivered faster in the second half of the year,” he added.

Among those who attended the meeting were the secretaries of health, education, budget, energy, economy, social welfare, and agriculture.

Five-month revenue collection was up 6.17 percent to P2.073 trillion from P1.953 trillion a year ago. Tax collections, which made up the bulk of government revenues, increased by 5.14 percent year on year to P1.842 trillion, while non-tax revenues climbed by 15.17 percent to P231.4 billion.

Higher collections from personal income tax, other domestic taxes and value-added tax propped up the BIR’s collection, reaching P1.420 trillion year-to-date.

Cumulative BOC collections also rose to P405.7 billion, higher by 6.27 percent than the P381.7 billion posted in the same five-month period last year.

Government spending hit P2.596 trillion, as interest payments grew by 17.87 percent to P421.3 billion and primary expenditures reached P2.175 trillion.

‘Mary Grace Piattos’ could be smoking gun–Ridon

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

THE existence—or nonexistence—of “Mary Grace Piattos” is expected to be crucial in determining whether Vice President Sara Z. Duterte’s confidential funds were properly utilized, a House of Representatives prosecutor said on Thursday.

Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon of Bicol Saro, a member of the House prosecution panel, said the issue surrounding Piattos

could serve as the “smoking gun” in the case. “The existence or non-existence of Mary Grace Piattos will be

No basis for ‘surprise witness’ claims in impeach trial–House prosecutor

AHOUSE of Representatives prosecutor on Thursday said there is no basis for claims of “surprise witnesses” in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, emphasizing that the prosecution has already disclosed its witnesses and documentary evidence through its pre-trial submissions.

Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima of Mamamayang Liberal noted that both the witness list and documentary evidence were clearly identified in the prosecution’s pre-trial brief submitted to the Senate Impeachment Court.

Given these disclosures, she stressed that neither party should claim to have been caught off guard by any testimony or evidence presented during the trial.

“So there can be no questions about, ‘well it’s a surprise witness, we’re being ambushed here by a surprise witness,’” de Lima said.

The former senator made the statement after the House prosecution panel agreed to a proposal requiring both parties to notify each other at least three days before presenting witnesses in court. However, she clarified that the proposal did not originate from the prosecution.

“I would like to clarify that this requirement was actually requested by the defense, not by the prosecution,” de Lima said.

According to her, the prosecution did not consider the additional notice necessary since all intended witnesses and evidence had already been disclosed in advance.

“We believe it is already clear. They know who our witnesses are, and they are aware of the evidence. All of these are contained in the pre-trial brief,” she explained. Despite this, de Lima said the prosecution agreed to the proposal to prevent procedural disagreements that could delay the proceedings.

“Nevertheless, to avoid further discussions that could slow down the process, we agreed to it,” she added.

The three-day disclosure requirement was among the issues raised in a manifestation filed by the prosecution before the Senate impeachment court on Wednesday.

The Senate impeachment court is currently conducting pre-trial proceedings ahead of the July 6 start of Duterte’s impeachment trial.

Trace

DUTERTE’S reported

the smoking gun in determining whether the use of confidential funds was proper or not,” Ridon told reporters.

Ridon emphasized that Piattos is at the center of the controversy involving the Vice President’s confidential funds.

“Mary Grace Piattos is important because she is at the heart of the controversy surrounding the use of confidential funds,” he added.

House prosecutor and Manila Rep. Joel Chua confirmed that Piattos is included on the list of witnesses submitted by the prosecution in its pre-trial brief.

The name Mary Grace Piattos became a key issue after it appeared in documents related to questioned liquidation reports, raising doubts about whether the

traced back to the beginning of her public service in 2007, said House prosecutor and Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon of Bicol Saro said.  Ridon said it is impossible to understand how Duterte reached her current net worth without examining where it originated.

Ridon rejected the defense’s position that records prior to 2022 should be excluded from the unexplained wealth article in the Senate impeachment trial. He explained that relevant documents, including Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALNs) dating back to 2007, would help establish a clearer picture of Duterte’s income as a public official, the assets she accumulated over the years, and the liabilities declared in her SALNs.

The lawmaker also stressed the importance of Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) records, noting that these can be compared with Duterte’s SALNs from 2007 to 2024 to construct a more comprehensive financial profile.

According to Ridon, the prosecution plans to compare Duterte’s 2024 net worth with her income after taxes, using BIR documents, reports from the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), and bank records that may be examined during the trial.

He added that this comparison would serve as a baseline in determining whether her declared wealth is consistent with her documented income and financial records.

Ridon further pointed out that the evidence could reveal patterns, particularly any assets or entries that may have been omitted from Duterte’s SALNs over the years. He noted that new evidence related to possible non-disclosures has already emerged.

He described the value of the evidence as twofold: first, to establish a broader and more complete financial picture of the vice president; and second, to determine whether certain items were omitted from her official declarations.

As examples, Ridon cited cash holdings and firearm declarations, which are required to be disclosed under the SALN law and may be verified against documentary evidence.

When asked what would happen if the defense insists on limiting the scope to documents from 2022 onward, Ridon said the prosecution would stand by its evidence.

He added that it would ultimately be up to the Senate impeachment court to determine the weight and relevance of the evidence presented by the prosecution. Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz

supposed recipient actually exists.

Citing findings from the Commission on Audit (COA), Ridon noted that several entries in the reports suggested improper use of confidential funds.

“Based on the COA report, many of the expenditures were clearly not proper uses of confidential funds. That is why, in each year that the Vice President had confidential funds, some amounts were required to be returned to the national treasury,” he said.

When asked whether Piattos has already been verified as a real person, Ridon declined to provide details, saying the matter would be clarified in the coming days.

“Well that is something that we all have to see in the next couple of days,” he said.

He also refused to disclose how the prosecution would proceed if Piattos has no records with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) or in the civil registry.

“Let us wait and see how the prosecution will handle this particular aspect of the proceedings,” he added.

Ridon also identified former Department of Education and Office of the Vice President (OVP) spokesperson Michael Poa as a key witness, citing his involvement in the operations of both offices during Duterte’s tenure.

“He is one of the very relevant witnesses in explaining how confidential funds and the entire operations of DepEd and OVP had been undertaken, so we will subject him to take the witness stand,” Ridon said.

He noted that the defense would have the opportunity to cross-examine Poa if he takes the stand.

“The defense is allowed to cross-examine him once he is presented. He has also said that as long as the questions relate to his duties in the OVP and DepEd, he has no objection. We respect that,” Ridon added.

Ridon said the prosecution’s proposed first article for presentation remains the threats article.

“The first article that the prosecution panel intends to present is the threats article,” he said. He said the prosecution is prepared to present a witness on the first day of trial.

“I believe we are ready to present a witness on the first day,” Ridon said.

Group calls for reform of ‘mangled, distorted’ party-list system

TBy Rizal Raoul Reyes @brownindio

HE Center for People Empowerment in Governance (CenPEG) on Thursday said there is a need to reform the “mangled and distorted” party system, stressing it has drifted far from its democratic foundations owing to flaws in electoral design and the controversial 2009 Supreme Court ruling in the case Banart v Comelec.

Felix P. Muga II, a fellow of the Center for People Empowerment in Governance (CenPEG) and associate professor of Mathematics at Ateneo de Manila University, warned that judicial interventions and legislative weaknesses have undermined the original constitutional intent of giving marginalized sectors meaningful representation in Congress.

“The party-list system was envisioned as a mechanism for empowering marginalized and underrepresented sectors. Instead, it has become vulnerable to elite capture, political dynasties and judicially-created distortions that have weakened democratic representation,” Muga said.

In a recent study, Muga argued that the Supreme Court essentially killed the 2 percent vote requirement for party-list groups. By analyzing the Banat ruling, Muga showed how organizations that failed to hit the minimum vote threshold under Republic Act 7941 were still able to win seats in Congress.

“The 2 percent threshold was intended to serve as a democratic qualifier – a minimum test of public support. By allowing non-qualifying groups to receive seats, the

Navy enters ‘drone age’

THE Navy (PN) said on Thursday that unmanned autonomous systems can be fitted into the service’s modern naval ships to beef up its various maritime security capabilities, aside from boosting its range.

“Integrating unmanned systems in our ships can expand our operational reach, enhance situational awareness, and strengthen our capabilities,” hed PN spokesperson Capt. Marissa Martinez, said.

Martinez made the statement in response to questions on whether the American-donated Triton autonomous underwater and surface vehicles (AUSVs) can be fitted into the newly acquired

See “Drone,” A4

Court transformed a clear statutory gatekeeper into an optional rule,” he explained. Muga pointed out that the decision produced unintended consequences that hastened the proliferation of party-list organizations and lowered barriers to entry for political interests that were never meant to benefit from the system.

“The Banat ruling opened the gate that Congress deliberately established. Once that gate was weakened, the party-list system became increasingly susceptible to manipulation by well-funded political actors and entrenched elites,” he said.

The Banat case

THE case arose after the 2007 elections when the Commission on Elections (Comelec) applied the formula from Veterans Federation Party v Comelec, resulting in only a portion of the available party-list seats being filled. Banat (Barangay Association for National Advancement and Transparency) challenged this formula, arguing that it unfairly limited representation.

Critics emphasized that the Banat ruling diluted the significance of the 2 percent threshold by allowing groups with very small vote shares to enter Congress. They argued that it encouraged the expansion of party-list organizations and fractured representation. Supporters, however, say the ruling expanded participation and better reflected the constitutional goal of the party-list system.

Muga challenged the Court’s justification that bypassing the threshold was necessary to avoid vacant seats. Utilizing a mathematical model he developed in

2005, Muga argued that the Largest Remainder Method (LRM) offers a superior alternative. He argued that the method successfully allocates all congressional seats among legally qualifying parties without sacrificing proportional representation.

“The solution was never to abandon the threshold. The solution was to use a mathematically sound seat-allocation method that respects both proportional representation and democratic qualification standards,” he noted.

Muga further blamed the three-seat cap imposed under the party-list law as a major source of systemic dysfunction. “The threeseat cap distorts proportional representation and incentivizes political fragmentation. It encourages powerful interests to create multiple party-list organizations rather than compete fairly under a truly representative system,” he said.

Muga cited recent studies showing the proliferation of political dynasties and businesslinked interests in the party-list bloc system has increasingly diverted from its constitutional purpose.

“What was intended as a vehicle for marginalized representation has, in many cases, become an additional avenue for elite political participation. Unless reforms are undertaken, the party-list system risks losing public legitimacy altogether,” he added.

To restore the integrity of the system, Muga proposed a comprehensive reform agenda to restore the integrity of the system.

These are:

n Restoring the 2 percent vote

threshold as a strict qualification requirement, with the vote percentage rounded to six decimal places to ensure mathematical precision and eliminate ambiguity in borderline cases;

n Institutionalizing into law the rounding up of a party’s computed seat allocation whenever the decimal remainder is sufficient to reach at least 20 percent, ensuring that no qualifying party is arbitrarily denied representation due to fractional truncation;

n Repealing the Banat mechanism that allows sub-threshold groups to receive seats;

n Adopting the Largest Remainder Method for seat allocation;

n Removing the three-seat cap to achieve genuine proportional representation;

n Strengthening safeguards against political dynasties and vested interests in party-list nominations; and

n Clarifying constitutional and statutory rules governing partylist seat allocation.

For CenPEG, the party-list reform debate is beyond electoral mathematics. “The issue is fundamentally democratic,” Muga stressed. “The rules of representation determine whose voices are heard in Congress. If we are serious about political inclusion and democratic participation, we must repair the structural flaws that have deformed the party-list system.”

CenPEG said meaningful reform of the party-list system should form part of broader efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, improve political representation, and uphold the Constitution’s commitment to social justice and people empowerment.

Building collapse probe result out in July

By Ashley J. Manabat

ANGELES CITY—Authorities expect to release by July the findings of the ongoing investigation into the collapse of a building under construction in barangay Balibago that killed 30 people, city officials said.

The update came during the second formal briefing by the city’s Fact Finding Task Force, one month after the May 24 collapse that triggered a massive rescue and recovery operation and raised questions about construction safety and regulatory compliance.

City Legal Counsel Darwin Reyes said investigators are still conducting laboratory

tests, structural assessments and validation of construction-related documents before reaching any conclusions on what caused the collapse and who should be held accountable.

“The results will be released soon. At this time no final conclusions can be made. Comprehensive findings must be based on evidence. We cannot jump into conclusion without evidence,” Reyes said during the second formal press briefing.

“ So far nasa phase pa tayo ng pagte -testing ng samples para magkaroon ng solid basis ang ating task force,” he added. Reyes said the task force remains on track to complete its

comprehensive report within its 60-day timeline which places the release of findings sometime in July.

“The primary purpose of the investigation is to determine who was at fault or what caused the collapse. It’s easy to say who is at fault. So at this point, iyong may mga samples and tests will justify our findings and to have an intelligent conclusion,” Reyes said.

While investigators have yet to determine responsibility, legal actions related to the incident are already underway. Reyes said five criminal complaints involving eight

See “Collapse,” A5

Pretrial proceedings completed; all set for trial proper on July 6

THE impeachment case against Vice President Sara Z. Duterte is set to move to trial proper on July 6 after the House prosecution panel confirmed the completion of pretrial proceedings on Thursday night.

The five-day pretrial conference, held on June 18 and June 22 to 25, wrapped up with both sides finishing the marking of thousands of documentary exhibits and submitting their respective stipulations and manifestations—clearing the way for the next phase of the proceedings.

“The marking of exhibits has been completed, and the pre-trial conference has also been terminated,” lead prosecutor and Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro said during a press conference after the proceedings.

With the pretrial phase concluded, prosecutors said they are now awaiting the Senate impeachment court’s pre-trial order as the case transitions to full trial, where evidence and witnesses will be formally presented.

Luistro, joined by fellow prosecutors Leila de Lima, Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno, Joel Chua and Terry Ridon, along with private prosecutor Atty. Benjamin Tolosa Jr., emphasized that completing the pre-trial was a crucial step in advancing the impeachment process.

She credited the Senate impeachment court for ensuring the proceedings reached completion despite the thousands of documents involved, particularly those linked to allegations of unexplained wealth and the use of confidential funds.

The prosecution said it remained focused on finishing the pre-trial swiftly to avoid delays, even as procedural issues were raised during the process.

“Definitely, because ever since, our objective is to finish expeditiously,” Luistro said. “It was a clear position not to engage with those issues because our objective ever since is to finish this pre-trial conference expeditiously.”

More than 4,000 documentary exhibits related to confidential fund disbursements were marked—over 2,000 from the Office of the Vice President and more than 1,900 from the Department of Education. The total doubled after the defense opted to separately mark identical documents.

Despite the volume and challenges, prosecutors said the conclusion of pre-trial signals that the case is now ready for a full airing before the impeachment court.

The prosecution, however, placed on record its observation that the defense prolonged the marking of documentary evidence by refusing to use common markings for identical exhibits intended for presentation by both parties.

According to Luistro, prosecutors marked more than 4,000 documentary exhibits related to confidential fund disbursements—over 2,000 from the Office of the Vice President and more than 1,900 from the Department of Education.

Because the defense insisted on separately marking the same documents, the total number of markings doubled.

Chua said the process became even more time-consuming because every marked document also had to be signed by the prosecution, the defense and impeachment court personnel.

Responding to the defense’s claim that one prosecution document lacked a page during the marking process, Chua said the incident was isolated.

The prosecution also reiterated its request to open a sealed Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) box believed to contain key documents tied to the unexplained wealth allegation, with the matter now left for the court to resolve.

With pre-trial now finished, both sides are preparing for the presentation of evidence and witnesses as the impeachment trial formally begins next month.

Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

Earthquake-damaged houses breach 87K mark–NDRRMC

THE magnitude 7.8 offshore earthquake off Maasim, Sarangani Province damaged

a total of 87,100 houses, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported.

That said, 15,400 houses were totally damaged while 71,600 sustained partial damage.

Aftershocks of the earthquake continue to rock Southern Mindanao but are now less frequent, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivocs) said.

As of June 22, a total of 9,372 aftershocks were recorded by Phivolcs’ monitoring stations.

The earthquake, the strongest since the 1976 Magnitude 8 earthquake and tsunami event, killed 77 persons, a validated figure released by the NDRRMC on

Wednesday revealed.  At least 31 others remain missing.

The earthquake affected a total of 383,000 families or 1.64 million people.

A total of 5,800 families were evacuated and are currently sheltered in 63 different evacuation centers.

According to the NDRRMC, a total of 18 cities and towns were placed in a state of emergency.

The Office of Civil Defense said search and retrieval operations are ongoing while responders continue to provide relief to affected families.

So far, the government said it has provided P385 million worth of assistance to affected families, while another P8.5 million was provided to local governments (LGUs). Jonathan L. Mayuga

Trillanes files complaint vs Cayetano, Marcoleta

FBy Joel R. San Juan   @jrsanjuan1573

ORMER senator Antonio

Trillanes IV on Thursday filed a cyberlibel complaint against Sens. Alan Peter Cayetano and Rodante Marcoleta, along with 18 former soldiers who accused him of receiving kickbacks from flood control projects during the June 4 Senate Blue-Ribbon committee “hearing.”

In a 27-page complaint, Trillanes accused the Cayetano, Marcoleta and the 18 former soldiers of conspiring to portray him as a corrupt individual by claiming that he received cash deliveries to facilitate the investigation of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in connection with the bloody anti-illegal drug campaign of the Duterte administration.

He said the statements made during the hearing were “malicious and libelous” which is punishable under Section 4(c)(4) 25 of in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act 10175 otherwise known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

Trillanes said Cayetano affirmed the libelous statements made by the former soldiers during the hearing by uttering defamatory observations implying that he was bribing ICC investigators.

The former senator also noted that Marcoleta insinuated during the hearing that he betrayed a fellow Filipino by receiving and giving bribe money to ICC investigators who were gathering evidence against former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Duterte is now under trial before the international tribunal for crimes against humanity in relation to the killings that happened

Drone. . .

Continued from A3

Lakandula-class offshore patrol vessels, now being acquired and delivered as part of efforts to beef up the country’s fleet.

“[These systems can also allow] us to execute a broader range of maritime missions with greater operational effectiveness,” Martinez added.

She, however, said that she is not authorized to disclose details on these missions for security reasons.

On June 22, the US government turned over four Triton AUSVs to the Armed Forces (AFP) during brief ceremonies in Naval Operating Base Subic, Zambales.

These AUSVs, valued at approximately P754 million (USD13 million), demonstrate American commitment to the US-Philippines alliance and to a free and open Indo-Pacific Region.

The AUSVs are expected to enhance the Philippines’ ability to detect and respond to maritime challenges and illegal maritime activities.

The Triton AUSVs are capable of collecting data above and below the ocean’s surface through a resilient mesh network. The Tritons are solar-powered, allowing each unit to operate for up to 30 days for improved decision-making at the tactical and operational levels.

Rex Anthony Naval with PNA

during his all-out war against illegal drugs.

“At the onset, it is important to point out that the Respondents 18 “ex-marines” clearly conspired and confederated with one another, and with their cohorts respondents Cayetano and Marcoleta, as shown by their unity of action, design, and purpose: their act of executing a clearly malicious and dubious Pinagsamang Sinumpaang Salaysay (sworn affidavits), and their act of jointly attending the June 4, 2026 so-called ‘Blue Ribbon hearing,’ boosting each other’s claims, goading each to speak, propounding leading questions and supporting each other’s lies,” the complaint read.

Hence, in the words of the law, “the act of one should be considered as the act of all”, and all of them should be equally held liable by the claims, assertions, and utterances of each of them, in pursuance of their common purpose and design.

Trillanes also pointed out that the ICC Office of the Prosecutor had already debunked the allegations of the former soldiers and the two senators when it issued a statement saying that all its activities, including investigations are fully-funded by the ICC.

“Clearly, the above statements of Respondents 18 ‘ex-marines,’ as well as the instant remarks of Respondents Cayetano and Marcoleta, construed all together in their entirety and taken in their plain, natural and ordinary meaning are unquestionably defamatory, seriously injuring my good name, honor, and character, undermining my motives and good faith as a former public servant,” Trillanes said.

“Their accusations are devoid of truth and without foundation in fact whatsoever,” he added.

Trillanes also said that the respondents cannot escape accountability  by invoking that the  statements made during the June 4 hearing are considered “privileged communication” that are protected from legal consequences.

The former senator insisted that Cayetano and Sen. Pia Cayetano were no longer Senate President and chairperson of the BlueRibbon committee, respectively, when the hearing was conducted following the assumption of Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian as acting Senate president on June 3.

Trillanes said the female senator had no more authority to call a hearing on a matter under the jurisdiction of a committee already chaired by another.

In fact, Trillanes noted, no official transcript of stenographic notes of the alleged hearing was produced by the Blue-Ribbon panel support staff.

“In sum, the June 4, 2026 socalled ‘Blue Ribbon hearing’ was a sham, a farce, a mockery of the official hearing which should be presided by the official committee chairman, sanctioned by the Rules of the Senate,” Trillanes said.

“Thus, respondents Cayetano and Marcoleta’s scurrilous remarks are not ‘statements made by members of Congress in the discharge of their functions as such nor official communications made by public officers in the performance of their duties,’” he added.

DENR vows stronger development programs for river, estero rangers

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has reaffirmed its commitment to uphold the welfare of estero and river rangers, recognizing their crucial role in the rehabilitation of Manila Bay and its tributaries, while expanding programs aimed at improving their health, education, and career opportunities.

At the general assembly for estero and river rangers from the National Capital Region (NCR), Central Luzon, and Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) at the agency’s central office in Quezon City on Wednesday, Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna described the rangers as the DENR’s “frontline force” in restoring rivers, esteros, and other waterways that drain into Manila Bay. “ Kayo ang nasa unang hanay ng pangangalaga sa ating kapaligiran, ang matatagnasandigan,pundasyon,atlakas ng Manila Bay rehabilitation. Maraming salamatsawalangsawangserbisyoninyo [You are at the forefront of caring for our environment, the steadfast support, foundation, and strength of the Manila Bay rehabilitation. Thank you very much for your tireless service],” Cuna told the workers.

He said the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program continues to post significant results.

In Calabarzon alone, the DENR said that from 2020 to the present, about 3,618 river rangers have been hired.

Since 2020, a total of 32.67 million kilos

‘Value of PHL gold soars despite shrinking reserves’

By Bless Aubrey Ogerio

THE monetary value of the Philippines’ gold reserves surged by 41.6 percent in 2025, helping lift the combined value of the country’s key metallic mineral reserves despite declines in the physical volume of several mineral deposits, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported. PSA data showed that gold reserves were valued at P308.79 billion in 2025, up from P218.04 billion a year earlier.

The increase pushed the total monetary value of the country’s Class A gold, copper, nickel and chromite reserves to P588.12 billion, 17.6 percent higher than the P500.20 billion recorded in 2024. Class A reserves refer to commercially recoverable mineral resources that have been confirmed to be economically viable through a defined development project or operation. Gold accounted for more than half of the total value of the four mineral reserves tracked by the PSA.

The agency said copper reserves were valued at P60.50 billion in 2025, slightly higher than the P60.39 billion posted in 2024.

Nickel reserves, meanwhile, declined by 1.2 percent to P217.74 billion from P220.42 billion, while chromite reserves fell by 19.1 percent to P1.10 billion from P1.35 billion.

Despite the increase in valuations, the country’s physical reserves generally declined. Gold reserves fell by 4.9 percent to 371.26 thousand kilograms in 2025 from 390.53 thousand kilograms in the previous year. Gold extraction likewise dropped by 2.7 percent to 19.55 thousand kilograms from 20.11 thousand kilograms.

Copper reserves decreased by 1.1 percent to 4.14 million metric tons, while copper extraction fell 13.3 percent to 46.08 thousand metric tons from 53.18 thousand metric tons in 2024.

of solid waste have been removed from rivers and waterways, covering 383,951 hectares across the provinces of Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, and Rizal, crediting the rangers’ daily efforts for helping improve the condition of waterways in the Manila Bay region.

The region’s watershed includes 88 river systems that drain into Manila Bay.

Dahilsainyo,unti-untingnaibabalik angsiglangmgailogatibapangdaluyang tubig. Sa inyong araw-araw na tiyaga at dedikasyon, nalilinis ang ating mga ilog at estero sa NCR, Central Luzon at Calabarzon [Because of you, the vitality of the rivers and other bodies of water is gradually being restored. With your daily perseverance and dedication, our rivers and estuaries in NCR, Central Luzon, and Calabarzon are being cleaned],” he said.

Cuna said that as the government enhances its program on Manila Bay rehabilitation, the government should also look after the well-being of river rangers, whose work often exposes them to health and safety risks.

He said the DENR has partnered with relevant stakeholders, including pharmaceutical company United Laboratories (Unilab), and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP).

During the event, Unilab Inc. conducted medical missions for river rangers, providing health assessments and consultations for workers who may not

See “DENR,” A5

Nickel reserves also declined, dropping 4.5 percent to 632.79 million dry metric tons. However, nickel extraction increased by 7.4 percent to 30.42 million dry metric tons from 28.31 million dry metric tons a year earlier.

Chromite reserves slipped slightly to 66.29 million metric tons from 66.34 million metric tons, while extraction fell to 48.03 thousand metric tons from 63.02 thousand metric tons.

The PSA said the four mineral resources generated a combined resource rent of P68.25 billion in 2025, equivalent to 0.24 percent of the country’s gross domestic product.

Under the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting Central Framework, resource rent refers to the surplus value earned from extracting or using a natural resource after accounting for production costs and normal returns.

The PSA said mineral asset values were estimated using the Net Present Value approach with a 10-percent discount rate.

The agency noted that the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao remains excluded from the country’s mineral accounts due to data limitations. The Mineral Accounts of the Philippines, which is updated annually, tracks the physical and monetary asset values of the country’s major metallic mineral resources, namely gold, copper, nickel and chromite.

Quality breach sinks ₧60-M cement stock

By Bless Aubrey Ogerio

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has ordered the destruction of 12,500 metric tons of imported Portland cement valued at about P60 million after laboratory tests found the products failed to meet mandatory Philippine quality standards.

According to the agency, the non-compliant shipment consisted of 3,700 metric tons packed in 40-kilogram bags and another 8,800 metric tons stored in jumbo bags.

The cement, imported from Vietnam, had been kept in the

Collapse. . .

Continued from A3

He added that city officials remain in communication with both the owner and contractor and have requested a hold departure order.

“The owner and contractor are still in touch with us. We have already requested a hold departure order,” Reyes said.

City Administrator Noel Luzung said the building permit authorized the construction of a nine-story structure with two roof decks. He said the city government units continue to conduct structural assessments in the vicinity of the collapse site and are providing assistance to affected families seeking legal remedies.

“Those who were affected, puwede silang lumapit sa amin. Through the fact finding, kung gusto nilang mag-file ng case, puwede nilang gamitin iyong facts, information, or evidence na mako-collect ng fact finding team,” Luzung said.

Mayor Carmelo Lazatin II said the city is also reviewing the structural integrity of abandoned, unfinished, and other buildings across Angeles City in an effort to prevent similar incidents.

“Para hindi na maulit ito, tinitingnan natin ang mga abandoned buildings, unfinished buildings, titingnan ang integrity ng structure,” Lazatin said.

“ Kung sakali man the structure ay hindi na puwede or hindi na capable na gamitin, mismong ang city [government] ipapa-demolish iyong building,” he added.

The task force was created through Executive Order 026, Series of 2026, and includes representatives from engineering, public works, law enforcement, disaster risk reduction, and legal services offices.

Officials reiterated that any determination of liability would be based on technical findings and documentary evidence.

importer’s warehouse in Ilocos Norte while awaiting inspection and testing required for the issuance of a Statement of Confirmation (SOC), a prerequisite before Portland cement can be sold or distributed in the local market. Laboratory analysis conducted

by the BPS showed that the products failed to comply with the requirements of Philippine National Standard (PNS) 07:2018, the country’s mandatory standard for Portland Cement Type 1.

The agency said the shipment did not pass several critical quality tests, including those covering loss on ignition, insoluble residue and 28-day compressive strength.

These deficiencies raised concerns about the cement’s suitability and performance in construction applications, according to the DTI.

Under Department Administrative Order 17-06, Portland cement products must first secure an SOC before they can enter commercial distribution channels in the Philippines.

The regulations also require manufacturers and importers whose products fail mandatory standards to either re-export the shipment or dispose of it under

BPS supervision.

DTI said firms found distributing non-compliant products may also face the immediate suspension of their Philippine Standard (PS) License.

Affected companies may only resume distribution activities or renew their licenses after the BPS confirms compliance through a comprehensive reassessment of their products.

Vietnam has remained the Philippines’ largest source of imported cement, accounting for the majority of the country’s cement imports.

The destruction, supervised by the DTI’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), was done in Ilocos Norte.

The destruction order forms part of the government’s enforcement of mandatory product standards intended to ensure the safety and quality of construction materials sold in the domestic market.

‘Red ribbon’ for seafarers’ diplomas, training certificates now available online

Continued from A4 or nine individuals have been filed. Some workers have also lodged labor cases against the building owner and contractor for alleged violations of labor standards, while the owner of a nearby property damaged by the collapse has filed a complaint for reckless imprudence resulting in damage to property.

Lazatin said the city government remains committed to transparency and accountability as the investigation continues.

“No one should be exempt from responsibility if violations are established,” the mayor said.

By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

SEAFARERS and maritime graduates can now easily access authenticate their diplomas, transcripts of records and training certificates when they apply for work abroad.

This, after the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) signed a memorandum of agreement integrating the DFA’s e - A postille System with Marina’s Electronic Certification, Authentication, and Verification (Mica) platform.

The agreement, formalized during the Day of the Filipino Seafarer 2026 celebration on Thursday, aims to cut verification time, strengthen document security, and eliminate the need for paper - b ased submissions.   Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Administration Maria Teresa Dizon - d e Vega said that with eApostille, Marina documents can now be authenticated in just one day compared to the previous three - d ay paper process.

“Anything on a digital platform is faster, easier, tamper - proof, very secure, and efficient for our kababayan,” de Vega told reporters.

Marina Administrator Sonia P. Malaluan explained that the integration comes after the agency assumed responsibility for certifying maritime education - r elated documents from the Commission on Higher Education.

“Certificates of authentication and verification used to be issued by CHED. With jurisdiction over maritime education now transferred to Marina, graduates can apply online and receive authenticated documents seamlessly. This replaces the old red - r ibbon authentication with an e - A postille attached to Marina - i ssued certificates,” she said.

Malaluan estimated that between 3,000 to 5,000 graduates annually will benefit from the streamlined process.

“They can now apply from the convenience of their homes, and the documents will be accepted overseas. This is a big step for our seafarers hired by global shipping

companies,” she added.

Both officials emphasized that the reform supports the Philippines’ broader advocacy for seafarers’ rights. De Vega cited ongoing representation at the International Maritime Organization and within the UN system, while Malaluan pointed to industry trends such as larger vessels and climate compliance that will require more Filipino crew.

The Philippines remains the world’s top supplier of maritime professionals, accounting for about 25 percent of the global seafaring workforce.

Malaluan said there are around 1.2 million certified Filipino seafarers, with about 800,000 holding valid certificates and 600,000 currently deployed worldwide.

Filipino seafarers are employed in cargo ships, tankers, bulk carriers, and cruise ships, with demand rising as vessels get larger and shipping expands. Their remittances contribute billions of pesos annually to the Philippine economy, supporting families and local communities.

Local beauty brands secure ₧58.5-M deals

FILIPINO beauty, personal care, and wellness enterpris -

es generated P58.54 million in combined cash and negotiated sales during a three-day trade exhibition, highlighting growing demand for locally developed consumer products.

The sales were recorded through the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Bagong Pilipinas Pavilion at Cosmobeauté Philippines 2026, a businessto-business trade show that brought together industry players, buyers, and suppliers from the beauty and wellness sector.

Held from June 17 to 19 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, the DTI pavilion featured a selection of exhibitors from Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao, showcasing products ranging from skincare, cosmetics, fragrances,

DENR. . .

and personal care items to wellness products and organic beauty solutions.

Among the products highlighted were coconut-based cosmetics and wellness goods developed under the government’s Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan.

Also featured were Halal-certified beauty and wellness products targeting a growing market for ethically produced and globally compliant consumer goods.

The trade department said participation in major industry exhibitions forms part of its efforts to strengthen the competitiveness of local MSMEs and help homegrown brands gain wider market access, including potential export opportunities.

Cosmobeauté Philippines, the local edition of the Cosmoprof

“Habang buong puso ninyong inaalagaan ang ating karagatan ng Manila Bay, gustonamingtiyakinnakayorinaynapangangalagaan ng pamahalaan. Kasabay na nating patuloy na pagpapalakas ng mga programa para sa rehabilitasyon ng Manila Bay [While you wholeheartedly take care of our Manila Bay waters, we want to ensure that you are also cared for by the government, while we continue to strengthen the programs for the rehabilitation of Manila Bay],” Cuna said.

11 one-stop shops on Arta’s year-end list

THE Anti-Red Tape Authority (Arta) is aiming to establish 11 industry-focused one-stop shops by the end of the year as it seeks to streamline government transactions and address recurring complaints from businesses and the public.

Arta Director General Ernesto Perez said the agency is preparing to roll out one-stop shop mechanisms for housing development, water projects, and the semiconductor industry.

This adds to existing initiatives covering sectors such as digital infrastructure, renewable energy, mining, and construction-related projects, he said.

“We will be launching the joint memorandum circular [in July] for the one-stop shop on housing development,” Perez told reporters.

“We are also looking at a one-stop shop for water, while the one for semiconductors is still being processed. Our target is by October,” he added.

Perez said the water-related initiative could be launched sooner as it is already under review by the Office of the President.

The expansion comes as Arta reported early signs of improvement in the country’s regulatory environment, citing gains in international competitiveness rankings. (See: https:// businessmirror.com.ph/2026/06/21/competitivenessclimb-comes-with-unfinished-work-execs/)

However, he noted that implementation at the local government level remains a major challenge. “Whenever business starts, the problems usually begin at the local level,” Perez said.

He added that while reforms and laws are already in place, ensuring their consistent application remains a key concern. Asked about the most common complaints received by Arta during the first half, Perez said many cases involve government offices failing to respond within prescribed timelines or imposing requirements that are not listed in their Citizens’ Charters.

Among the violations frequently reported are delays in processing applications and the imposition of additional documentary requirements beyond those officially published.

“It’s unfortunate, but we have to file cases because there are violations. It also serves as a lesson learned,” he said.

Perez said Arta continues to closely monitor several government agencies that regularly receive public complaints, including the Food and Drug Administration, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of Customs, PhilHealth, and PagIBIG Fund.

He said Arta’s legal and public assistance offices receive and monitor complaints on a monthly basis as part of the agency’s efforts to improve government service delivery and ensure compliance with ease-of-doing-business regulations.

Bless Aubrey Ogerio

DICT notes drastic drop in number of complaints vs courier, delivery

services

Asia network of beauty trade exhibitions, is considered one of the country’s largest B2B events for the sector.

The exhibition serves as a platform for businesses to establish commercial partnerships and engage with international buyers and industry stakeholders.

The Philippine participation was organized by the DTI’s Bureau of Market Development, Promotions and One Town, One Product (Otop) in coordination with the Export Marketing Bureau.

The agency said trade fairs remain an important channel for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) seeking to expand beyond their traditional markets, particularly as demand for beauty, wellness, and personal care products continues to grow both domestically and abroad. Bless Aubrey Ogerio

He added the agency is exploring additional forms of health assistance, including the possible provision of vitamins and other wellness support through partnerships with relevant stakeholders.

Beyond health programs, Cuna also encourages river rangers to pursue further studies through its partnership with the PUP Open University System. PNA

By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

COMPLAINTS against courier and delivery services dropped by nearly 88 percent over the past six months, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) reported on Thursday, crediting digital reforms that centralized monitoring and tightened oversight of the sector.

Data from the DICT showed that complaints involving the Private Express and/or Messengerial Delivery Service (Pemedes) sector fell from 1,210 in January to 151 as of June 23.

The monthly figures declined steadily over the period, registering 692 in February, 350 in March, 182 in April and 167 in May.

“Because of our digitization efforts, we make it easy for couriers to comply with legal requirements. This in turn enhances the trust of the people in the industry as we promote a reliable and effective ecosystem: isang regulatory mechanism na parehong pro-rider at pro-consumer,” DICT Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Faye M. Condez-de Sagon said.  She attributed the drop to

Oplan Bantay Padala and the Pemedes Licensing Portal, both launched in January to establish a centralized system for complaints monitoring, rider registration and compliance tracking.  The initiatives strengthened oversight and improved regulatory visibility across the delivery ecosystem, she added.  Under the modernized system, consumers benefit from faster resolution of complaints involving delayed, lost or mishandled parcels, while riders and operators face a streamlined compliance process that secures proper identification through digital credentials.

Condez-de Sagon said the reforms form part of the government’s broader push to advance digital transformation and improve the responsiveness of public services. She noted that delivery delays carry real costs for Filipinos, from missed medicines to disrupted livelihoods for online sellers.

The DICT rolled out Phase 2 of the Pemedes Licensing Portal on June 23, enhancing digital identity verification, automation and regulatory monitoring for riders and operators.

Oil tanker transits Hormuz via new route after Iran threatens ‘violators’

By Jon Gambrell

The Associated Press

DUBAI , United Arab Emir -

ates—A Liberian oil tanker

made its way out of the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday despite threats to shipping from Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard and using a new route close to Oman’s shore that has been promoted by a U.N. maritime agency. The transit of the Stoic Warrior and the threats come as tensions rise between Iran and the United States over the terms of their interim accord aimed at permanently ending the Iran war. From getting ships through the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf to the future of Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, the two nations are increasingly debating the terms of the deal signed last week.

Through the signing of the memorandum of understanding, the US and Iran agreed to a 60-day period to iron out these and other details. Until that happens—during private talks—leaders from both countries will also continue to negotiate in public, raising the risks of derailing the shaky ceasefire in the region.

A major threat to the deal is the flareup of fighting in Lebanon between Israel and the Iranian-backed militia Hezbollah. On Wednesday. Israel launched an airstrike that killed two people in southern Lebanon, the country’s state-run news agency said. It was Israel’s first airstrike on Lebanon since the latest ceasefire took effect on Saturday.

Tanker sails through Strait of Hormuz

THE Stoic Warrior—signaling that it planned to transit the Strait of Hormuz—took off early Thursday morning on a trip that saw it hug the coast of the United Arab Emirates and then Oman.

The vessel then traveled around Oman’s Musandam Peninsula fairly

close to the shore, part of a route that Oman laid out alongside the International Maritime Organization, an agency of the United Nations that oversees shipping at sea.

North of the route is the Traffic Separation Scheme, the route in the center of the strait that for decades ships moved through freely. The route is used for transport of about a fifth of all the world’s oil and natural gas.

However, there has been the report of at least one mine sighted in the water after the Guard said that it mined the passage during the war that started on Feb. 28 with US and Israeli strikes on Iran. The threat of mines shut off the route.

The naval arm of the Revolutionary Guard, apparently reacting to Oman and the IMO’s route, gave an angry warning Thursday, carried by Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency.

“A few hours ago, without notice or coordination with the Islamic Republic of Iran, some authorities announced a new route for ship traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, which is unacceptable and completely dangerous,” the Guard said.

See “Oil Tanker,” A7

Ukraine’s long-range strikes on Russia hit major natural gas plant, satellite centers

By Illia Novikov The Associated Press

KYIV, Ukraine—Ukrainian forces struck a major natural gas processing plant and two key satellite communications centers in their latest nighttime attacks on Russia, Ukraine’s General Staff said Wednesday.

The operation was part of Ukraine’s aerial campaign targeting energy facilities and military industries that has intensified as Kyiv builds bigger and better long-range weapons to ward off Russia’s full-scale invasion, now in its fifth year.

In response, Moscow has ordered the redeployment of some air defense systems from Russian regions to the capital and to Crimea’s Kerch Bridge, a crucial link for supplying Russian troops, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. The bridge connects the Crimean Peninsula with the Russian mainland.

“It is important that as many Russians as possible come to understand that it is the Russian leadership’s rejection of diplomacy that is prolonging the war,” Zelenskyy said on X. Zelenskyy has accepted an unconditional ceasefire demanded by US President Donald Trump but Russian President Vladimir Putin has refused.

In northern Ukraine, meanwhile, military officials ordered a mandatory evacuation for communities and settlements in the Chernihiv region bordering Belarus starting July 1, according to Viacheslav Chaus, the head of regional military administration, in a statement on his Telegram channel.

Last month, Zelenskyy said his intelligence services had learned Moscow recently stepped-up efforts to “draw Belarus much deeper into the war” and launch operations from Belarusian territory. He said he ordered the military and security agencies to prepare a response and strengthen northern defenses. Belarus and Russia denied Zelenskyy’s claim.

Ukraine says stricken gas plant was among world’s largest THE overnight attack hit the Orenburg Gas Processing Plant, which is part of a complex that also houses the only helium plant in Russia, the General Staff said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. The attack set the complex on fire, it said.

Orenburg, in the southern Urals near

Russia’s border with Kazakhstan, is more than 1,200 kilometers (750 miles) behind the front line in eastern and southern Ukraine.

The plant is one of the largest gas complexes in the world, according to the General Staff. It produces helium, used in liquid-fuel rocket engines and guidance systems, and ethane, a key component in producing solid rocket fuel and gunpowder, it added.

Overnight attacks also hit two satellite communication centers used by the Russian military, according to the General Staff.

One was the Dubna Space Communications Center near Moscow, which it described as Russia’s largest ground-based satellite communications complex, and the other was in the Vladimir region east of the capital. It was not possible to independently verify the General Staff’s report, and Russian officials made no immediate comment. The General Staff’s statement did not say whether the military used drones or missiles in the assault, but drones have recently been used to strike Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Ukraine keeps hammering Crimea UKRAINE has recently focused its drone and missile attacks on Crimea, aiming to cut off the vital Russian-held peninsula, and overnight drone strikes knocked out power in Sevastopol, Mikhail Razvozhayev, the city’s Moscow-installed governor, said Wednesday. Crimea, which was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014, sits in a strategic location on the Black Sea. It has naval bases and also provides an important supply line to Moscow’s forces inside Ukraine.

Ukraine recently destroyed more than 60,000 tons of Russian ammunition when it hit a Baltic Fleet arsenal near St. Petersburg, Zelenskyy said.

Ukraine is trying to disrupt military supply lines in Crimea and strike the peninsula’s power grid at the height of the summer tourist season. Kyiv hopes the campaign will embarrass Putin and increase public pressure on him to end the war, according to Western analysts. Ukraine’s Security Service said Wednesday it struck two military airfields and destroyed missile systems in Crimea. Elise Morton in London contributed.

The World

Venezuela reeling after powerful earthquakes kill at least 32 people as promises of aid pour in

By Regina Garcia Cano & Juan Pablo Arraez The Associated Press

ARACAS, Venezuela — Power -

Cful back-to-back earthquakes that struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening killed at least 32 people and injured at least 700, the nation’s acting president said, as communities across the South American country sustained damage.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez warned the toll was expected to rise as rescuers search collapsed buildings and emergency crews reach devastated areas after the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes that struck shortly after 6 p.m.

Rodríguez declared a state of emergency in an address to the nation late Wednesday and said the quakes caused damage in several states. The casualty figures released early Thursday excluded the state of La Guaira, which Rodríguez described as a “disaster zone” and the area hardest hit.

“Dozens of buildings have collapsed there, about 30 kilometers (19 miles) north of Caracas, and we are currently carrying out intensive rescue operations to save lives,” she said.

The earthquakes, among the strongest to strike Venezuela in more than a century, roiled the region, with buildings evacuated in cities and areas impacted as far as Brazil’s Amazon about 1,700 kilometers (1,050 miles) from Venezuela’s capital Caracas.

Venezuela’s state-run VTV showed footage early Thursday of three children, covered in dust but alive, being pulled from the rubble in hard-hit La Guaira.

The broadcaster also said a hospital in the city of Tucacas, about 200 kilometers (120 miles) northwest of Caracas, suffered damage and showed images of dozens of people in what seemed like medical garb in front of the building.

The earthquakes damaged and closed Simón Bolívar International Airport near Caracas, the country’s main airport, Rodríguez said, adding that subway and natural gas services in Caracas were canceled. She urged Venezuelans to report any damages through a government app. Rodríguez said school classes would be canceled for several days. The Ministry of Education said some school buildings would be used as shelters and donation centers.

“We urge our population to remain calm,” said Rodríguez, who asked health

“It is hereby notified to all that the only authorized route for passing through the Strait of Hormuz is the one declared by the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the Iranian force said. “Vessel traffic outside these routes is extremely dangerous and prohibited.”

It added: “Violators will be dealt with,” without elaborating. There were no immediate reports of any incidents in the strait as the Stoic Warrior passed. Several ships trailed behind it, according to shiptracking data.

Anwar Gargash, a senior Emirati diplomat, warned Iran on Thursday over trying to impede the strait or put fees on vessels plying its waters.

“New geopolitical facts cannot be imposed on the Arab Gulf states as a result of a treacherous aggression against them,” Gargash wrote on X. “It sows new seeds of discord and conflict for the future. And this is precisely what applies to the Strait of Hormuz.”

Lebanon remains a flashpoint

ISRAEL’S military said on Thursday that a reservist soldier was killed and another hurt in southern Lebanon, where troops are occupying swaths of the country. At least 37 soldiers have been killed in Lebanon or northern Israel during the fighting, as well one civilian defense contractor. Two civilians in northern Israel have also been killed.

Over 4,000 people in Lebanon have been killed in Israeli strikes since this latest Israel-Hezbollah war began in March, two days after the Iran war started and when the Lebanese militant group fired at Israel.

Iran has insisted that fighting in Lebanon be stopped and that Israel give up the land it occupies there to reach a permanent deal with the US on the Mideast war. Israel insists it must maintain a freehand to counter Hezbollah attacks as pressure from the US on its campaign grows.

Associated Press writer Julia Frankel in Jerusalem contributed to this report.

US Congress welcomes Taiwan’s parliamentary head to Washington, affirms support for island

People remained on the streets for hours, some sitting on the ground hugging pets as dust gathered around them. Collapsed buildings, toppled electric poles and debris blocked streets. Parts of the capital lost power and cellphone signal.

“It started off gently and then gradually grew, and in the end, we all had to leave our houses, go outside and gather together,” Caracas resident Hector Ricci said.

Roberto Gamas, another Caracas resident, said the building he was in “really shook from side to side. Unreal. The force was incredibly strong.”

RESCUE workers carry an injured man after an earthquake in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, June 24, 2026. AP PHOTO/ARIANA CUBILLOS

care professionals to report to hospitals to assist the injured. “We urge unity.”

Country hit twice by large quakes

THE US Geological Survey initially said the first earthquake had a magnitude of 7.1, later revising that to 7.2. Its epicenter was west of Morón on the country’s Caribbean coast about 168 kilometers (104 miles) west of Caracas. The quake had a depth of 22 kilometers (13.6 miles).

The USGS reported an even larger 7.5-magnitude earthquake just a minute later. The second quake had a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) with an epicenter 16 kilometers (10 miles) southwest of Morón.

In the coastal state of Falcon, Gov. Víctor Clark said 32 people had been hospitalized and there were 15 people trapped in the hours after the earthquake.

International assistance offered OFFERS of help were made by various governments including the United States, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, Panama and Uruguay.

US Secretary of State Rubio said in a post on X early Thursday that the United States is “immediately deploying search and rescue teams, medical resources, and humanitarian assistance to Venezuela.”

Jeremy P. Lewin, the US undersecretary of state for foreign assistance, said the State Department had mobilized a disaster assistance team and task force to coordinate aid in coordination with the interim Venezuelan government.

Rodríguez said Thursday that Qatar had already sent rescuers who were expected in Venezuela the next day, along with rescue personnel from Mexico and El Salvador.

El Salvador President Nayib Bukele,

once diametrically opposed to Ven -

ezuela’s government, said in a post on X Wednesday night that he had offered aid.

“We send you all our solidarity and our prayers. Stay strong, Venezuela,” Bukele wrote.

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa said he had ordered the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid to help respond to the emergency.

“Ecuador will respond with the speed and commitment this moment demands because, despite our enormous differences, humanity must always guide the actions of a leader,” Noboa wrote.

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz, who less than a week ago declared a state of emergency in his country following weeks of anti-government protests, said his country stood ready to provide any needed assistance.

The administration of Brazil President Luiz Inácio da Silva expressed solidarity and said no Brazilians reported being injured.

‘We all had to leave our houses’ TELEVISION broadcasts Thursday showed images of rescue workers using power tools on collapsed structures.

During the quakes, people evacuated swaying buildings in Caracas, many visibly shocked as they saw collapsed walls that left furniture visible from the street. Dust columns could be seen in two capital neighborhoods with typically busy restaurants and other businesses.

Powerful 7.2-magnitude

The lack of cellphone signal in parts of Venezuela deepened the distress of many families, particularly those among the more than 7.7 million people who have left the country during its protracted crisis.

Venezuela opposition leader María Corina Machado, in exile after leaving Venezuela in December, took to X to send prayers and wish strength to Venezuelans.

“May strength, serenity, and solidarity prevail among us in the face of this difficult time,” she said on X.

Impact felt throughout Venezuela

VENEZUELA Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said the quake could be felt in several states and asked motorists to give way to ambulances and other emergency vehicles.

“We understand that some people may be desperate, but we are acting according to protocols to activate aid and rescue efforts to help those who need it most,” Cabello said, urging people to remain outside as aftershocks could further damage structures. “Be very careful with children and the elderly. Call each other and check that no one has been harmed.”

Garcia Cano reported from Bogota, Colombia. Associated Press writers Clara Preve in Buenos Aires, Astrid Suarez in Bogota, Colombia, Mauricio Savarese in Sao Paulo and Anna-Catherine Brigida, Megan Janetsky and India Grant in Mexico City, Cristina Fuentes in Madrid and Maria Teresa Hernandez in Beijing contributed to this report.

earthquake strikes off northern Japan; no tsunami warning

By Mari Yamaguchi The Associated Press

TOKYO—A powerful earthquake struck off Japan’s northern coast on Thursday, but the country’s meteorological agency said there was no danger of a tsunami.

The quake had a magnitude of 7.2 and occurred off the eastern coast of Iwate, upgraded from an initial reading of 6.9, the Japan Meteorological Agency said. The quake had a depth of about 50 kilometers (30 miles), it said. The US Geological Survey also reported a magnitude of 6.9.

The rattling occurred in an area where strong earthquakes have repeatedly been reported in recent months, including one that triggered a weeklong mega-quake caution advisory in December.

The quake, which struck Japan’s northeastern region during Thursday’s morning rush hour, also mildly shook Tokyo. There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage, according to top government spokesperson Minoru Kihara.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told reporters in Tokyo that her government’s emergency team is “putting people’s lives first,” while assessing information and preparing for relief operations, if needed. She urged residents in the affected regions to use caution against possible aftershocks.

Tomoko Nagane, a primary school principal in the town of Hashikami in Aomori prefecture, told NHK that she was driving when the quake alert went off and that she felt moderate sideway shaking. Children already gathered at the school were safe, she said, though

some were crying in fear. Classes were canceled for the day and children have all returned home safely, Nagane said.

Footage on Japan’s NHK public television quoted its journalists from a number of strongly hit towns, including Sendai and Morioka, saying they felt the shaking for a couple of minutes but have not seen any damage. Footage showed people commuting as usual.

The East Japan Railway Co., which operates trains in northeastern regions, said some bullet

trains and other local lines have been suspended for safety checks.

Nuclear power plants and facilities, including the Fukushima Daiichi plant which was damaged by the 2011 massive quake and tsunami, and a spent fuel reprocessing plant in Aomori, have not reported any abnormalities from Thursday’s earthquake, Kihara said.

Japan, which sits on what is known as the Pacific Ring of Fire, is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone areas.

By Didi Tang The Associated Press

WASHINGTON—Members of the US House of Representatives on Wednesday

pledged firm support for the selfgoverned island of Taiwan as they welcomed Han Kuo-yu, president of Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan, to Washington, at a time the Trump administration is reviewing a $14 billion arms sales package to Taiwan, months after it got preliminary congressional approval.

More than 30 House representatives, both Democratic and Republican, streamed into the reception at the Longworth House Office Building to show their support, including Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, D.-California; Rep. Michael McCaul, a Texas Republican and former chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee; and Ted Lieu, a California Democrat who serves as the vice chair of the House Democratic Caucus.

“I love Taiwan,” declared McCaul, as he welcomed Han. “It’s very important to me to say that the United States supports you, Mr. Speaker.”

“The support for Taiwan is bipartisan and bicameral — both houses, both parties,” Pelosi said. “It’s about peace. It’s also about commerce in terms of keeping the ships able to travel here.” Han, who is leading an eight-person parliamentary delegation, arrived in the nation’s capital on Tuesday night after a stop in Phoenix, Arizona, where the chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. is building new fabs and producing advanced chips crucial to powering the A.I. boom. TSMC is the poster child of Taiwan’s importance to the US economy.

The delegation met seven Democratic senators earlier Wednesday, including New Hampshire Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. It wasn’t clear if Republicans senators also met the visiting lawmakers.

The Democrats called on the Trump administration to move ahead with the $14 billion in arms sales to Taiwan without further delay. “We remain committed to maintaining close and friendly relations with Taiwan, providing Taiwan with arms for selfdefense and supporting deterrence against growing coercion from the People’s Republic of China,” they said

in a statement.

Taiwan, which Beijing claims to be part of the Chinese territory and vows to seize by force if necessary, is a highly thorny issue in US-China relations. Washington is obligated by a domestic law to provide the island with sufficient hardware to fend off any invasion from the mainland. President Donald Trump, after his May trip to Beijing, has said he would be reviewing the $14 billion arms sales package, which Beijing strongly opposes. Trump also has suggested that the arms sales package could be a bargaining chip. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said the US policy on Taiwan remains unchanged. On Wednesday, several US lawmakers showed their support for the arms sales package.

“I’m here today...to affirm in the strongest terms that Taiwan is not a bargaining chip. It is an island of freedom. And we need to do all we can to preserve it,” said Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D.-Texas. “ I believe we need to make available every weapon that Taiwan needs in its defense as quickly as it becomes possible.”

Lieu criticized the Trump administration for holding up the $14 billion package. “I urge the administration to reverse that and to allow their arms sale to proceed,” he said. Han, who is a member of Taiwan’s opposition KMT party, in his speech complimented the US for its achievements in the past 250 years and said the island, like the US, cherishes the value of freedom and democracy and that both sides shoulder the responsibilities of safeguarding the democratic system and of maintaining regional stability and peace.

Han touted the robust trade between Taiwan and the US. The island of 23 million people has surpassed Germany as the fourth-largest trading partner of the US, largely driven by the demand for Taiwan’s advanced chips and other tech hardware.

Han also urged the US to help Taiwan gain more international space. No country can have diplomatic ties with both Beijing and Taipei because of China’s territorial claim over the island. Only 12 governments, including the Holy See, still recognize Taiwan’s statehood. Beijing also has kept Taiwan out of many international organizations, including the World Health Organization.

HAN KUO-YU, Taiwan’s President of the Legislative Yuan hands his business card to Rep. James Walkinshaw, D-Va., during a reception hosted by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States, (TECRO), on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, June 24, 2026. AP PHOTO/CLIFF OWEN

Cebu’s connectivity, talent, and new facilities key to MICE growth; DOT says province ready for bigger global events

By Carmel Pedroza

LAPU-Lapu City, Cebu—Strong connectivity, world-class facilities, skilled tourism professionals, reliable support services, safety, and close collaboration among stakeholders are the keys in positioning Cebu as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), according to the Department of Tourism in Central Visayas (DOT-7).

“With new facilities and improved amenities, Cebu is ready,” said DOT-7 Supervising Tourism Operations Officer Riza Marie Macaibay during the Cebu Business Month (CBM) 2026 MICE Tourism Summit on Thursday, June 25 held in this city.

Macaibay said Cebu is well-positioned to host larger international conventions and business events as it strengthens its standing as a leading MICE destination in the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region.

She credited the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), led by President Regan Rex King, and the Cebu MICE Alliance headed by President Cleofe Albiso for their continued efforts in advancing the province’s business events sector.

“As the Department of Tourism moves forward under the leadership of Secretary Dita Angara Mata, we remain optimistic about Cebu’s growth as a MICE destination, especially after the province successfully hosted key international events in the past three years,” Macaibay said. Growing global market

THE tourism official emphasized that Cebu has long been recognized not only as a tourism hotspot but also as a major economic and in -

vestment hub.

Citing industry data from Transnational Diversified Group (TDG) and Precedence Research, Macaibay said the global MICE market reached approximately US$1.2 trillion in 2025 and is projected to surpass US$2 trillion by 2030, growing by around 8 to 9 percent annually.

The Asia-Pacific region accounted for about 22 percent of the global market in 2025 and is expected to record the fastest growth worldwide, with annual growth estimated at 10 to 13 percent through 2030.

“This shows that Cebu is in the right region at the right time. The momentum is here, and it is happening close to home,” she said.

Macaibay noted that neighboring ASEAN countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand have strengthened their MICE industries through sustained investments in venues, marketing, and industry coordination.

She said Cebu possesses several competitive advantages, including its strategic location, strong domestic and international connectivity, rich culture and heritage, modern urban services, and a large English-speaking workforce known for its hospitality.

“Our culture, heritage, stories, traditions, and hospitality give delegates a strong sense of place— something that no convention hall can create on its own,” she said.

Collaboration as a competitive advantage

BEYOND infrastructure, Macaibay identified collaboration among local government units, business leaders, tourism stakeholders, and national government agencies as one of Cebu’s greatest strengths.

“When Cebu decides to host, it gives its best. Everyone contributes to deliver a memorable and high-quality experience,” she said.

Cebu has already emerged as one of the country’s top MICE destinations outside Metro Manila, hosting major international events in recent years, including the UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific, the ASEAN Tourism Forum, and other ASEANrelated meetings.

The province is also gaining momentum in the incentive travel market, particularly among visitors from South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and ASEAN member countries.

According to DOT-7 data, Central Visayas welcomed 2,384 incentive travelers last year, with more than half coming from South Korea. Macaibay said the actual number is likely higher, as the figure only covers groups that requested DOT assistance for airport receptions and related services.

She added that Cebu’s diverse tourism offerings, experienced professional conference organizers, destination management companies, and accredited tour operators provide a strong foundation for future growth in the incentive travel segment.

New Venues Expanding Capacity

MACAIBAY highlighted the Department of Tourism’s MICE Roadmap 2030, which aims to expand the country’s exhibition space to

100,000 square meters, elevate the Philippines into the top 10 destinations in the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Asia-Pacific rankings, and increase annual MICE revenues from US$95 million to US$420 million by 2030.

She also cited the Tourism Promotions Board’s “MICE Philippines: We Take Your Business to Heart” campaign and enhanced incentive programs designed to attract qualified events to the country.

While Cebu has traditionally faced limitations in hosting very large international conventions, Macaibay said major upcoming facilities are expected to transform the province’s capabilities.

“The Mactan Expo Center and the SMX Convention Center will change that narrative,” she said.

The two facilities are expected to add at least 31,000 square meters of leasable event space, significantly boosting Cebu’s ability to host major conventions, exhibitions, and international meetings.

The opening of the Cebu Arena is likewise expected to strengthen the province’s portfolio by accommodating international sporting events, concerts, summits, and other large-scale gatherings.

Macaibay revealed that DOT-7 is already working with partner organizations to bring two major events to Cebu within the next two years, utilizing the new venues.

The agency is also collaborating with the Cebu MICE Alliance, the Philippine MICE Academy, and the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu on capacity-building initiatives and international sales missions. Efforts are likewise underway to showcase Cebu at ITB Asia in Singapore and strengthen its bid to host MICECON 2027.

Challenges Remain

DESPITE the positive outlook, Macaibay acknowledged the need for continued improvements in infrastructure, traffic management, waste management, safety and security, product development, and

workforce development.

“Our people are our greatest asset, and we must invest in skills training and capacity building to inspire and encourage growth for the next generation of MICE professionals,” she said.

She stressed that sustained collaboration among government agencies, local governments, tourism stakeholders, and the private sector will be critical to Cebu’s long-term success.

“With continued partnership, commitment, and collaboration across all sectors, we can secure Cebu’s place not only on the global MICE map but also as a leisure, education, creative, and investment hub,” Macaibay said.

Building a Unified Strategy

CBM 2026 Tourism Committee

Chairman Josef Chiongbian said Cebu possesses the infrastructure, connectivity, and hospitality assets needed to compete with established MICE destinations across Asia.

“Cebu is not always the first name on the list when international conference organizers evaluate destinations. This is not because we lack capability. It is because capability alone does not create global competitiveness. Strategy does. Alignment does. Partnerships do,” Chiongbian said.

He said the summit was designed to bring together airlines, venue operators, local governments, investors, tourism organizations, and industry stakeholders to develop a coordinated strategy for attracting international events.

Chiongbian said he envisions Cebu becoming a regular contender for major international conventions and corporate incentive programs, generating jobs, supporting local enterprises, and expanding economic opportunities across the region.

“We are gathered here not simply to celebrate what Cebu has, but to determine what Cebu must do next,” he said.

Unified Effort

CCCI President King underscored the importance of collaboration among local governments, business organizations, and tourism stakeholders in achieving Cebu’s MICE ambitions.

“Cebu is now positioning itself as a regional engine of experiencedriven, investment-generating tourism,” King said. He noted that the summit supports the Department of Tourism’s broader strategy of strengthening regional tourism hubs and expanding high-value tourism segments.

King highlighted growing cooperation among the chambers of commerce of Cebu City, LapuLapu City, Mandaue City, and Talisay City.

“We do not work in silos. We have one voice, one vision in promoting Cebu as one destination,” he said.

He also credited the Cebu MICE Alliance for helping improve the province’s readiness to host major events, including the development of a MICE guidebook and preparations for future national and regional conventions.

Beyond MICE

WHILE MICE remains a cornerstone of Cebu’s tourism strategy, King said the province is also expanding into complementary high-value segments such as sports tourism and wedding tourism.

He noted that international sporting events, endurance races, aquatic competitions, and destination weddings are helping diversify Cebu’s tourism offerings while attracting higher-spending visitors.

“These are quality tourism segments rather than mass tourism,” he said.

King added that Cebu’s strategic location, expanding infrastructure, globally competitive hospitality sector, and the Mactan-Cebu International Airport provide a strong foundation for sustained growth.

“A world-class destination needs a world-class gateway, and the airport is often the first impression of Cebu,” he said.

Lawmakers seek congressional probe into deadly Tacloban school shooting

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

L@joveemarie, Rex Anthonynava L & Jonathan L. Mayuga

@jonlmayuga

AWMAKERS are calling for a congressional investigation into the deadly school shooting in Tacloban City as they push for stronger child protection policies and improved campus security measures nationwide.

Navotas City Rep. Tobias Tiangco has filed House Resolution 1155 directing several House committees to conduct an inquiry, in aid of legislation, into the June 22, 2026, shooting at San Jose National High School that left three students dead and several others injured. Also, Manila 2nd District Rep. Rolando Valeriano has filed House Resolution No. 1146 seeking a broader probe into recent incidents of school violence, including the Tacloban shooting and stabbing cases in Cavite. A viral video showed a female student in a school

uniform entering a classroom with her back to the CCTV camera and repeatedly assaulting several female classmates seated in front of her, causing panic among other students in the room in Cavite.

Tiangco’s resolution seeks to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify possible gaps in existing laws on school safety, firearms regulation, child protection, and juvenile justice.

“The deaths of these young students are a tragedy that should never happen again.

We owe it to the victims and their families to find out what went wrong and ensure that our schools remain safe places for our children,” Tiangco said. Initial reports indicate that the alleged perpetrators are minors aged 15 and 14, raising concerns over juvenile delinquency, access to firearms, parental accountability, and the effectiveness of intervention and rehabilitation programs for at-risk youth.

See “Tacloban,” A9

Marcos joins global outpouring of support for earthquake-stricken Venezuela

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos has joined other international leaders, who expressed support for Venezuela after it was devastated by twin earthquakes with over 7 magnitude last Thursday (Manila time), which initially killed 31 and injured hundreds of others.

“Deeply saddened by the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela. On behalf of the Filipino people, I extend our heartfelt sympathies,” the Chief Executive said in a statement posted on his social media page. He said the Philippines is in solidarity with the Venezuelan people and will hope for the “safety and swift recovery” of the disaster-hit country’s affected communities.

The United States Geological Survey reported that a magnitude 7.2 earthquake

hit about 160 km west of Caracas, which was followed by a magnitude 7.5 tremor.

The massive damage caused by both quakes prompted the Venezuelan government to declare a state of emergency. Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodriguez reported that at least 32 people were killed in the disaster and injured 700 others.

As of press time, the Department of Foreign Affairs there were not Filipino casualties from the said disaster.

US President Donald Trump has committed US resources to assist in the ongoing search and rescue operations in the Latin American country.

The US facilitated the change in leadership in Venezuela earlier this year after it captured Venezuela’s former President Nicolas Maduro, who was replaced by Rodriguez, who is now the acting president of the Latin American country.

GATCHALIAN PRODS DEPED:

Expedite hiring of school counselor associates to curb school violence

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

ALARMED by the rising cases of violence in schools, Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian has flagged the need to accelerate the hiring of school counselor associates for public schools.

The 2026 national budget allocates P2 billion to hire 10,000 School Counselor Associates I, in line with the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act (Republic Act No. 12080) which mandates a School-Based Mental Health Program to promote learners’ mental health and well-being, he noted on Thursday.

To address the shortage of guidance counselors in public schools, the law created School Counselor Associate positions to help implement the School-Based Mental Health Program.

Naglaan tayo ng pondo para sa pagkuha ng mga School Counselor Associate upang gabayan ang mga mag-aaral sa paghubogngmabutingasalatmatiyakang kanilangmaayosnakalagayangpangkaisipanatemosyonal”[We allocated funds for hiring School Counselor Associates to guide learners and help shape good conduct and ensure that their mental and emotional health is stable],” said Gatchalian. To qualify as School Counselor Associates, a candidate must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling or Psychology or any Bachelor’s Degree with at least 18 units in either field. Graduates of related degree programs may also qualify if they have completed at least 18 units in Behavioral Science, including 200 hours of supervised practicum or internship in guidance and counseling, preferably in school or community settings.

Visa upon arrival for Filipinos going to UAE: read before you proceed…

By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

FILIPINOS planning to travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) should note that visa-on-arrival entry is not automatic.

Only those holding valid visas, residence permits or green cards issued by the United States, European Union countries, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Canada, or New Zealand are eligible for the privilege.

Filipinos who do not hold valid visas or residence permits from the listed countries must still apply for a UAE visa in advance.

The UAE has extended the same visaupon-arrival arrangement to nationals

of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and South Africa, according to the UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) welcomed the policy, saying it reflects the UAE’s recognition of its “excellent bilateral relations” with the Philippines, which is home to about one million Filipinos working and living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

Requirements for Visa-on-Arrival Entry Filipinos must ensure the following before traveling:

n Passport valid for at least six months

n A personal photo

nA copy of the visa or residence permit

n Duration of stay limited to 14 days from entry, extendable once for the same period

n Visa validity capped at 30 days

Overstaying beyond the permitted period or failing to renew an expired entry visa will result in fines of AED 50 per day (P836).

Visa Options

ELIGIBLE travelers may choose between two visa types:

n 14-day visa: AED 100 (P1,672), extendable once for another 14 days at AED 250 (P4,180)

n 60-day visa: AED 250 (P4,180), not extendable

Officials said the visa-on-arrival

Telcos launch ‘SIMon’ mascot for mobile number portability drive

By Henry Empeño

MAJOR Philippine telecommunications companies under the Telecommunications Connectivity Inc. (TCI) joint venture introduced a new ambassador to engage more subscribers in the nationwide mobile number portability (MNP) campaign.

The TCI group, composed of DITO Telecommunity, Globe Telecom, and Smart Communications in partnership with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), officially introduced “SIMon” as its MNP mascot in a meeting at the NTC office on Monday, June 22.

SIMon, a subscriber identity module (SIM) card with a smiling face, is designed as a friendly and engaging character to make key MNP messages more accessible and comprehensible

among Filipino mobile subscribers, TCI said.

“SIMon embodies our mission to make mobile number portability simple, approachable, and empowering for every Filipino subscriber,” said TCI general manager Melanie Manuel.

“Through this initiative, we want to assure consumers that they have the freedom to choose the mobile service that best meets their needs—without losing the number that connects them to family, friends, and opportunities,” she added.

Launched in September 2021, MNP is a free service that allows mobile phone users to switch network providers or subscription plans without changing their existing mobile number.

The program is governed by Republic Act No. 11202, or the Mobile Number Portability Act, which required mobile service provid -

ers to offer nationwide mobile number portability to subscribers.

NTC Commissioner Ella Blanca A. Lopez said the mascot launch underscores TCI’s shared commitment to uphold the RA 11202 and ensure that its benefits are fully realized by the public.

“By making MNP information more engaging and easier to understand, we are empowering subscribers to exercise their rights and fostering a more competitive telecommunications industry,” Lopez said.

SIMon is expected to further promote MNP guidelines under RA 11202, which provides for zero fees when switching to an alternate network provider; flexible transfer from prepaid-to-postpaid plans, or from postpaid-to-prepaid; and a porting transfer window with a maximum of four hours of total downtime.

Marcos orders agencies to find ‘root cause’ of violence in schools

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos said the recent spate of school violence is “unacceptable” and has vowed to put a stop to it by weeding out its “root cause,” according to Malacañang.

scheme is expected to ease travel for Filipino tourists, professionals, and families, while complementing broader cooperation between Manila and Abu Dhabi in labor, trade, investment, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. Earlier this year, both countries signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), granting Philippine exports such as bananas, pineapples, canned tuna, electronics, and machinery reduced or zero tariffs. The UAE had previously granted visa-on-arrival privileges to Indian passport holders in 2024, while among ASEAN members, Malaysia and Singapore enjoy full visa-free entry.

Ombudsman gives Cayetano, Padilla and Aplasca 15 days to answer obstruction of justice complaint

TBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

HE Office of the Ombudsman has directed Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and Robin Padilla, as well as former Senate-Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Aplasca, to answer the complaint for violation of Presidential Decree 1829 (obstruction of justice) filed against them in connection failed enforcement of the warrant of arrest issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa last May 13. In a two-page order issued by Assistant Ombudsman Moreno Generoso last June 23, 2026, Cayetano, Padilla and Aplasca were given a non-extendible period of 15 days from receipt of notice to submit their respective counter-affidavits and controverting evidence to the complaint filed by civil society groups led by Tinding Pilipinas, human rights groups, student councils and unions.

Tiangco emphasized the need to review whether key laws—including the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, the Anti-Bullying Act, and the Mental Health Act—are sufficient and properly enforced.

The House inquiry will examine, among others, school safety protocols, anti-bullying and child protection programs, mental health and psychosocial support services, emergency response mechanisms, and possible lapses in the custody and regulation of the firearms involved in the incident.

For his part, Valeriano warned that such incidents expose longstanding gaps in school safety and security, noting that violence involving students and even teachers has become more frequent in recent years.

“Congress must determine where our schools, local governments, and national agencies are falling short and what legislative reforms are needed to strengthen campus security, guidance services, mental health programs, and violence prevention measures before more students and teachers are harmed,” he said.

He pointed out that many public schools lack trained security personnel, allowing armed individuals to easily enter campuses.

He also cited deficiencies in guidance counseling services, school health systems, and

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is currently looking at what prompted the two children to open fire at their fellow students at the San Jose National High School including bullying and their exposure to violent gaming apps.

“When the President learned of what happened in Tacloban, he was—we could say—heartbroken, because it turned out

In a press briefing last Thursday, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Chief Executive was “heartbroken” after hearing of the shooting incident in San Jose National High School in Tacloban, Leyte last Monday, which killed three students and injured 20 others.

the ability of school staff to detect warning signs of violent behavior.

Remulla: PNP probing parents, aunt of Tacloban school shooting suspects

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating the accountability of the parents and aunt of the suspects in the shooting rampage inside a school in Tacloban City recently.

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the adults’ negligence led to juvenile suspects, aged 14 and 15 years old, accessing and using the firearms that killed three and injured 20 fellow students at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City.

“We are looking at the culpability of the aunt and the parents,” said Remulla.

The PNP established that the 14-yearold suspect used a Glock 17 pistol owned by his aunt, a police officer in Police Regional Office (PRO) 8, while the 15-year-old suspect was armed with a .38-caliber revolver registered in a security agency in Cebu.

Remulla underscored that the responsibility of securing firearms rests on the adults to prevent young family members from gaining access to them.

The PNP said the PRO 8 police officer may face a criminal case for malversation under Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code and administrative sanctions for negligence, while the security agency may face the revocation of its license to operate for failing to report a lost firearm.

that children were capable of committing and planning crimes, while other innocent youths became their victims,” she said in Filipino.

A day after the incident Tacloban, another school violence was reported in Negros Occidental when a Grade 9 student stabbed a Grade 10 student outside of Julio Ledesma National High School (JLNHS).

The Department of the Interior and Local

The DILG chief also said the investigation of the police organization points to bullying as a factor provoking the suspects towards the school shooting rampage. The PNP also established the influence of a certain video game on the suspects.

“Ang lumalabas sa initial feedback ay bullying gone wrong. Binu-bully daw‘yung dalawangestudyanteng‘yunatdahildoon ayna-influence silasavideo games,” he said.

Remulla he has was recommended to permanently ban violent internet computer games and push for a stronger Juvenile Justice Law (JJL).

Remulla said he believes these violent internet games have influenced the suspects in the Tacloban school shooting incident to commit the gruesome crime.

According to Remulla, a stronger JJL can be achieved by amending Republic Act (RA) No. 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, saying the law should place greater emphasis on an offender’s intent and level of discernment rather than age alone.

PNP eyes more participation in DepEd weekly activities

AS part of ongoing efforts to beef up its presence in public schools following the bloody June 22 attack in Tacloban City which killed three students and injured at least 20 others, the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday said it is looking to enhance collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) to encourage weekly police participation in school flag-raising ceremonies and educational activities.

Government (DILG) said it was able to stop a supposed copycat shooting incident in Tacloban City High School by a 14-year old high school student.

On Thursday, another shooting incident was reported at the premises of the Kolehiyo ng Pantukan in Davao De Oro, which claimed the life of a 30-year old graduate. Castro said such incidents have raised the concern of the government.

“So, the President ordered the imme -

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, in a statement, said these are part of efforts to cultivate safer campuses and deter crime through sustained visibility and engagement.

He added that this initiative builds on an existing practice that he implemented during his previous assignments as Regional Director of Police Regional Office in Calabarzon and the National Capital Region Police Office as well as during his service as provincial director and chief of police in various areas.

“Our goal is not to police the classroom but to build trust and provide a sense of security. When students regularly see police officers during flag ceremonies and school activities, they are reminded that law enforcement is part of the community, and that police are always ready to help,” Nartatez said.

Nartatez stressed that regular police visibility can serve as both a deterrent and a bridge between law enforcers and the youth.

He also clarified that the initiative does not involve routine patrol operations inside school grounds.

Info may have prevented another mass shooting in Leyte school REMULLA urged the public to immediately report any threat or discussions involving planned violence through the Unified 911 emergency hotline.

According to Remulla, a swift action of

diate determination of what is the root of this, except for what the President has seen that other violent gaming apps are involved. So, we really need to see where this is coming from, if there is imitation, if this type of violence is becoming normal,” she said.

The Presidential Communications Officer undersecretary are now conducting the necessary investigations on the said matter. Samuel P. Medenilla

authorities on an alleged threat against students of Tolosa National High School in Tolosa, Leyte was prevented by elements of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.

At a press conference, he said the informant that helped prevented possible mass shooting at the Tolosa National High School in Tolosa, Leyte, came from Senator Bam Aquino. He said Aquino, who he surmised was in Leyte, reported a chatter about the alleged threat made by a 14-year old female students.

The prompt reporting and rapid response of law enforcement helped prevent a potential incident, allowing authorities to immediately assess and neutralize the threat.

“Itopoaypanawagankosalahatngmga netizens natin. Kung may makita po kayo nakahitanong threat, or imminent threat, or chatter sa mga group discussions, na mayroong gustong gawing mass shooting or violence to be inflicted, please call 911 and inform [us] right away,” Remulla said.

Authorities acted swiftly after a threatening social media post circulated online warning of a possible shooting or stabbing incident at the school, causing concern among students, parents, school personnel, and the wider community.

Based on the investigation conducted by the CIDG, the Grade 10 student of the same school who allegedly, created multiple social media accounts to spread the threatening message directed at Tolosa National High School.

The Ombudsman has also given the complainants five days to file a replyaffidavit from the receipt of the respondents’ counter-affidavits.

The Ombudsman said it will not entertain any plea for extension, motion to dismiss, motion for bill of particulars, or any dilatory motions and pleadings.

“If the respondents do not file their counter-affidavits within the reglementary period despite due notice, or cannot be served with or refuses to receive this order to file counter-affidavit, the complaint shall be deemed submitted for resolution and no further pleadings or documents shall be entertained,” the order read.

It may be recalled that Dela Rosa, who is wanted by the ICC for crimes against humanity in connection with the Duterte administration’s anti-drug war, was placed under the Senate protective custody when he appeared at the Senate on May 11 after six months in hiding.

This prevented the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) from implementing the ICC-issued arrest warrant against him.

However, Dela Rosa managed to leave the Senate premises before dawn of May 14 following a shooting incident between Senate security forces under Aplasca and NBI agents. The complaint assailed Cayetano’s decision to grant protective custody to Dela Rosa despite the arrest order issued by the ICC.

The protective custody, according to the complainants, had no lawful basis and operated as a sanctuary to shield Dela Rosa from apprehension. The complaint also noted that Dela Rosa escaped from the Senate despite being under its protective custody. Padilla, on the other hand, was included as respondents in the complainant after he admitted that Dela Rosa “hitched” a ride aboard his car to be able to leave the Senate premises.

Weaving PHL into the tapestry of Muslim travel

THE country’s remarkable rise in the Global Muslim Travel Index is not just good news for tourism—it is a major win for the economy and a welcome return to cultural roots.

The numbers are telling and the trajectory is clear: the Philippines is no longer a peripheral player in the global Halal economy but an emerging hub. With approximately 70 Halal- or Muslim-friendly establishments now operating in the country—a more than four-fold increase from just 16 a decade ago—the seeds planted by the Philippine Halal Tourism Project in 2016 have grown into a robust and promising industry. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Halal Tourism grows as PHL climbs global Muslim travel index,” June 22, 2026).

This growth has been rightfully recognized on the world stage. The Philippines’ leap to fifth place among non-Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries in the Mastercard CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) for 2026 is a testament to the deliberate and inclusive strategy of the Department of Tourism (DOT). It signifies that the “Salaam” being extended to the world is being heard and welcomed. However, as Acting Tourism Secretary Ma. Bernadita Angara-Mathay wisely noted at the Salaam Expo, this initiative transcends mere visitor arrivals and receipts. It is a profound narrative of connection. The ties between the peoples of Mindanao, Sulu, Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia predate modern borders. By investing in Halal tourism, the Philippines is not just building infrastructure but is also reaffirming its historical and cultural identity as a nation deeply intertwined with its Southeast Asian neighbors and the broader Muslim world.

The economic imperative is undeniable. With approximately two billion Halal consumers globally, this is a market projected to be worth trillions of dollars. While the data for 2025 shows a modest 1.24% increase in arrivals from OIC countries, the foundation for exponential growth is being laid. Malaysia’s pledge of support, as articulated by Ambassador Melvin Castelino, and the recognition of Mindanao as the “Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Region” are powerful endorsements that signal confidence in the Philippine brand.

Yet, to sustain this momentum, the public and private sectors must move beyond certification and focus on the holistic visitor experience. The DOT’s goal of upgrading the entire visitor experience through culturally sensitive services and expanded Halal-certified food options is the correct path forward. It is not enough to have a “Marhaba Beach” in Boracay; the entire tourism ecosystem—from airports to local communities—must be steeped in the “thayyiban” (wholesome) spirit of Halal.

The Philippines has turned a corner. It is no longer just a beautiful destination but an inclusive one. By welcoming the Halal economy with open arms, the country is not only securing a lucrative slice of a growing global market but also strengthening the cultural and historical bonds that make it a truly vibrant and connected nation. The journey that began in 2016 is now a movement, and it is one that promises prosperity and unity for all.

Ultimately, the rise of Halal tourism is a story of strategic vision meeting cultural resonance. It positions the country as a welcoming participant in a vast global ecosystem. By honoring the deep-seated connections of the region and meticulously building a world-class, faith-sensitive tourism product, the Philippines is not just capturing a market share—it is weaving itself into the rich, enduring tapestry of Muslim travel and trade. This is an economy of trust and kinship, and the Philippines is wisely investing in it.

BusinessMirror

Antonio L. Cabangon Chua

Blending

Rizal’s literary works with our rich music culture

PDennis Gorecho

Kuwentong Peyups

his literary genius with the nation’s rich sonic heritage.

Most of the works were lifted from Rizal’s two novels “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo” that inspired many of those who fought for freedom.

I watched last week two shows that paid tribute to Rizal’s works, which coincided with his 165th birthday: the musical “Ibarra..Ngayon ” at the GSIS Theater and the “Handog sa Unibersidad ng Bayan” concert at the University of the Philippines (UP) Theater.

The lines “Kay tamis na mamatay dahil sa bayan” from the poem “Awit ni Maria Clara” of Noli reverberated during the musical “Ibarra.. Ngayon.”

“Ibarra” is a play originally titled “Kanser”, written by Jomar Fleras, which won in the 1979 playwriting contest of Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) for the category of adaptation of a Filipino novel.

It is based on Rizal’s book “Noli Me Tangere,” published in 1887 and written in Spanish, which is a sweeping and passionate unmasking of the brutality and corruption of Spanish rule in the Philippines (1565–1898) that are seen as a disease of society, thus the title, Latin for “touch me not.”

The story follows Crisostomo Ibarra, who went back home after his European studies. He rekindled his romance with childhood sweetheart Maria Clara, but triggered an old rift with the town friar, Padre Damaso. As the story progressed, Ibarra realized that the malady of oppression and colonial brutality has been killing not only his town, but his motherland as well.

Fleras said that playwriting “is a way to dramatize the plight of our people as well as to use the power

of theater in awakening them from apathy and complacency.”

Kanser had its world premiere in 1980 at the CCP, staged by the theater group Bulwagang Gantimpala with Tommy Abuel as Ibarra and Cora Alforja as Maria Clara. Now on its 46th year staging as “Ibarra…Ngayon”, Fleras’ work is now considered as the longest running theater classic in Philippine history.

In 2015, it became a full blast musical adaptation by Gantimpala Theater with music composed by Joed Balsamo. There were only three songs in the 1980 version.

Crisostomo Ibarra was portrayed the longest by Tommy Abuel for almost 10 years while other lead actors include Teroy de Guzman (1994), Ernie Garcia, Miguel Castro (2007), Allan Paule (2007, 2008), Jojo Riguerra (2008, 2011) Jao Mapa (2009), Randy Villarama (2010), Jay Gonzaga (2011, 2012, 2013), Joel Molina (2014, 2017), Michael Pangilinan (2015), Carlo Manalac (2016), Jacob Benedicto (2015), Vance Larena (2018), Kiel Alo (2019), Piolo Pascual (2023) and Derrick Monasterio (2026).

Maria Clara was played by Cora Alforja (1980), Cherrie Pie Picache (1994), Adriana Agcaoili (1999, 2000), Monica Llamas (2007), Fame Flores (2008, 2009), Meliza Reyes

Thailand, PHL, Argentina primed

as next supply chain ‘rising stars’

TB. Resurreccion, Dennis D. Estopace

Angel R. Calso, Dionisio L. Pelayo

Ruben M. Cruz Jr.

Eduardo A. Davad Nonilon G. Reyes

D. Edgard A. Cabangon Benjamin V. Ramos Aldwin Maralit Tolosa

Rolando M. Manangan

BusinessMirror is published daily by the Philippine Business Daily Mirror Publishing, Inc., with offices on the 3rd floor of Dominga Building III 2113 Chino Roces Avenue corner De La Rosa Street, Makati City, Philippines. Tel. Nos. (Editorial) 817-9467; 813-0725. Fax line: 813-7025. (Advertising Sales) 893-2019; 817-1351, 817-2807. (Circulation) 893-1662; 814-0134 to 36. E-mail: news.businessmirror@gmail.com www.businessmirror.com.ph

By Jorgelina do Rosario & Rosalind Mathieson

HAILAND, the Philippines and Argentina are among a group of promising yet underutilized economies primed for an increasing role in supply chains, according to a new analysis of global trade trends.

These and other countries in Southeast Asia and Latin America stand to benefit from diversification as companies look beyond cost and efficiency to build resilience, Verisk Maplecroft, a UK-based risk intelligence firm, said in a report released Thursday.

A third of the world’s busiest ports and airports are vulnerable to disruption from conflicts, environmental risk and domestic security threats, the firm warned. At a time when trade resilience has deteriorated in more than 150 countries— accounting for 90 percent of global trade—there’s opportunity for “rising stars,” the report argued.

The shuttering of the Strait of Hormuz during the US-Israel conflict with Iran created “near-term headwinds” for both Thailand and the Philippines, Verisk Maplecroft said. Still, its data indicate that those “willing to take a longer-term view

will find these markets worth their attention.”

Market openness, regulatory strengths and labor rights in each country are the three main factors the firm analyzes.

The supply chain potential in the Philippines comes despite a bout of political turmoil in the past year, including a sprawling scandal over corruption in contracts for flood mitigation projects that’s seen politicians issued with arrest warrants.

That graft scandal dented foreign investment in the Philippines last year, and has been a factor in the government cutting its economic growth forecast for this year. The Senate, meantime, has been consumed by infighting related to a rift between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Vice President, Sara Duterte, who faces an impeachment trial in July.

“Things are still happening behind the scenes, including efforts to attract investment and reduce regulatory burdens on businesses — though the results of these efforts have yet to fully emerge,” according to Laura Schwartz, senior Asia analyst at Verisk Maplecroft. “Sometimes political chaos completely stops policymaking, and sometimes it happens alongside policymaking.”

With a young, English-speaking labor force, the Philippines offers significant potential for industrial services and outsourcing, she said. “If you are confident in your company’s supply chain management systems to monitor and manage corruption risk, that doesn’t have to be a complete barrier,” Schwartz said.

Thailand, Argentina RISKS for Thailand, meantime, have decreased when compared with regional peers during the past five years, the firm said in its report. Thailand’s electronics sector is benefiting from AI investment, and the country is “well positioned to host higher-value supply chain links,” Verisk Maplecroft said. That’s even with an aging workforce and higher-

(2009, 2010), Ellrica Laguardia (2013), CJ Mangahis (2013), Cris Pastor (2011, 2012, 2014), KL Dizon (2016), Dea Formacil (2017), Andrea Manuel (2018), Rare Jireh Columna (2019), Myramae Meneses (2015, 2023), and Andrea Stevenson (2026).

The 2023 production by Tanghalang Una Obra and directed by Frannie Zamora was topbilled by actor Piolo Pascual as Ibarra and Myramae Meneses as Maria Clara. This year starred Derrick Monasterio and Andrea Stevenson.

“Adiós, Patria adorada!” was part of the repertoire by the UP Symphony Orchestra (UPSO) during the concert to celebrate the 118th anniversary of UP. Other performers include UPSO Symphonic Chorus, Philippine Madrigal Singers.

The words translates to “Farewell, beloved fatherland!” which is the iconic opening line of “Mi Último Adiós” (My Last Farewell). The piece is a poignant poem written by Rizal on the eve of his execution by firing squad on December 30, 1896.

The opening stanza reveals his deep love for the Philippines, famously calling it the “Pearl of the Orient Sea” (Perla del Mar de Oriente) and bidding a cheerful goodbye as he offers his life for the country’s welfare.

See “Gorecho,” A11

cost labor compared with others in the region, it said.

“The ingredients are really good for a lot of the industries that are seeking supply chain diversification opportunities,” Schwartz said. For Argentina, both the European Union-Mercosur trade accord and an agreement with US on reciprocal trade and investment could drive a shift on critical minerals, energy and industrial exports. Chile and Uruguay are also on the regional list, with the latter offering the region’s strongest risk-adjusted operating profile.

“Latin America still trails Southeast Asia as a scaled manufacturing platform, but Western efforts to reduce exposure to China are creating new supply-chain contenders,” according to the report. The report also points to Vietnam, Malaysia, Mexico and Brazil as already benefiting from the reduction in bilateral trade between the US and China. Those four have their advantages as supply hubs, the report said, “but according to our data, risks to multinational supply chains in all of these jurisdictions are increasing.” With assistance from Claire Jiao/Bloomberg

AYING tribute to our national hero Dr. José Rizal through music is a long-standing Filipino tradition, blending

The highest form of patriotism

Remarks of H.E. Teodoro L. Locsin Jr., Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the United Kingdom, on the occasion of the 128th Philippine Independence Day, St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, London.

MR. Frederick “Eric” Andaya; members of the Filipino community of St. Bartholomew’s Hospital; our Filipino nurses, doctors, healthcare professionals, staff, and friends; a pleasant morning to you all. I am privileged to join you today at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, one of London’s great institutions of healing, on the 128th Anniversary of Philippine Independence. Yup, we’ve lasted that long—thanks entirely to the quality of ordinary Filipinos who alone deserve the credit for our country’s longevity.

Independence Day is a reminder of what Filipinos once dared to believe before they had a country of their own: that we can stand on our own, fight with our bare hands if necessary as we showed in our war of independence and our liberation; think with our own heads and decide with our own will. Not always with success but never at anyone else’s dictation or expense. That is independence— making our own mistakes and not paying for the mistakes of other countries especially the strong ones.

That is why this celebration matters even more when we are far from home. Distance does not diminish nationhood. Distance lends enchantment to the view of it—which might distort its reality. But distance puts the view in the wider context. Looking at the countries around us, we haven’t done badly.

Sure, the others are now economically ahead of us; but we spared ourselves the horrors of their wars of liberation. Think Vietnam and the naked burning girl on a highway trying to put out the flaming napalm eating her shoulders. We suffered World War II but that was not our war. We came out of it with Manila the second most destroyed capital after Warsaw. But we got through it and avoided the same horror since; while a lot of the rest apart from the Western world went up in flames.

Away from the familiar certainties of our motherland, we discover what we truly carry with us: our manners, our faith, our humor in tragedy, our patience in ordeals, our persistence in the teeth of failure. Above all, our instinct to reach out to one another and to others to help. Our UN Peacekeepers are famous for never ever hurting those they were sent out to save. We arrived in the United Kingdom already trained; intelligent, disciplined; ready and eager to work over and above the call of duty. It is what sets us apart as His Majesty the King told me when I presented my credentials to him. He said that when the UK had no vaccine, no medicine, no palliatives—nothing, our nurses had one more medicine: “they took off their surgical gloves and held the hands of the dying so they would go gently into that goodnight.” We came with families to support, dreams to fulfill, and the good repute of Filipino workers worldwide to uphold. In the case of our healthcare workers, we came with hands prepared to heal and hearts ready to serve. The Covid-19 pandemic made unmistakably clear the importance of Filipino healthcare workers to the very fabric of the iconic NHS—the first and still the only kind of national outreach in the world at no expense to those it is meant to heal and protect.

At St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, Filipinos contribute to a long and distinguished tradition of British care. In wards, clinics, offices, laboratories, and operating theatres, Filipinos do work that is demanding

Gorecho. . . continued from A10

The poem was an unsigned, untitled, and undated poem of 14 fiveline stanzas. Rizal placed this poem in the cocinilla or the alcohol stove and it was delivered to his family after his persecution. Founded on June 18, 1908 through Act No. 1870, the concert is a celebration of UP’s 118th anniversary, which also paid tribute to Rizal on his 165th birthday. UP students are required to take PI 100 (The Life and Works of Jose

Bagong Pilipinas: Disaster preparedness begins with standards enforcement

Eand deeply human. Much of it is done quietly but it is never insignificant. And, believe me, it is noted nonetheless with admiration.

A patient may forget the name of the person who helped him through a difficult hour. But he will remember the kindness. He will remember the patience. He will remember the calm voice at a frightening moment. Very often, that voice has a Filipino accent even speaking British English.

This, too, is a form of patriotism—perhaps the highest kind. In the war to save people from disease and neglect, even if they are not our fellow countrymen. But that is because all men and women are brothers and sisters to all Filipinos. The world, for us, is family.

Patriotism is not only found in ceremonies, although ceremonies are important. It is not only with flags and anthems, although we wave and sing. Patriotism is best expressed in competence, in compassion, in honest work—all done with the quiet but unmistakable dignity that characterizes the Filipino at home and abroad.

Every Filipino who does his or her work well abroad enhances and enlarges the respect accorded the Philippines. We are professionals. We are caregivers. We are leaders. We are bearers of a culture of caring shaped by faith, family, sacrifice and service.

It is fitting to say this in a hospital. Our national hero, Dr. José Rizal, was himself a physician. He healed when he could, wrote when he had to, and died when there was no other way to wake up a nation.

Our Filipino healthcare workers in the United Kingdom prove this every day. You keep vital institutions running. You care for the sick, the anxious, the elderly, and the vulnerable— the homeless even like one homeless woman Embassy personnel spread out to find and help when they see a photo of her on Facebook. She didn’t want help. Sometimes that happens. You comfort families. You work long hours and difficult shifts. Many of you carry burdens silently: family responsibilities here, obligations back home, and the emotional weight of being far from those you love. And yet you endure. You flourish. You build communities. You celebrate I ndependence Day. You organize gatherings like this one, not only to remember the Philippines but to make the Philippines present here. It is bayanihan.

Bayanihan is the practical habit of helping one another. It is how Filipinos turn distance into community, and exile into belonging. It is how we build homes away from home while keeping connected to motherland. On behalf of the Philippine Embassy in London, I thank the Filipino community of St. Bartholomew’s Hospital for organizing this celebration. You honor our independence by the lives you lead and the service you give. I thank you all. Good morning to everyone.

Rizal), which is a mandatory 3-unit course and an intensive study of Rizal’s biography, writings, and legacy—specifically his novels Noli and El Fili—within the context of 19thcentury Philippines and the Rizal Law (Republic Act 1425). “Kanser” evolves through the years but the message remains solid: Filipinos must not be silenced in the midst of ills and injustices in society.

Peyups is the moniker of University of the Philippines. Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez. com, or call 09088665786.

MAKE SENSE

VERY earthquake, every typhoon, every collapsed structure reminds us of one painful truth: disaster preparedness is not only about rescue, relief and rebuilding. It must begin long before the ground shakes or the storm arrives. It begins with prevention. It begins with enforcement. It begins with making sure that the materials used to build our homes, schools, hospitals, factories and public infrastructure are safe, compliant and reliable.

This is why I would like to respectfully appeal to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to take decisive action against the continued production, sale and use of substandard construction materials in the country, especially steel products.

The recent magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao on June 8, 2026, and caused the collapse of buildings and structures in General Santos City and other affected areas, should serve as a national wake-up call. So should the tragic collapse of a nine-story building under construction in Angeles City, Pampanga on May 24, 2026.

Whether or not the final investigations will attribute these collapses to design, workmanship, overloading, soil condition, materials, regulatory lapses, or a combination of factors, the lesson is already clear: the Philippines cannot afford weak links in the construction chain.

In a country visited by strong earthquakes and destructive typhoons, substandard steel is not merely a defective product. It is a disaster risk.

A steel bar that fails standards is not just a bad commercial item. It can become part of a column, beam, wall, roof, bridge, school building or warehouse. Once embedded in concrete, it disappears from public view. But when a disaster comes, its weakness may be exposed in the most tragic way.

This is why the Federation of Philippine Industries has consistently called for strict enforcement of product standards, especially for construction materials. This is not protectionism. This is public safety. This is disaster preparedness. This is consumer protection. This is environmental protection.

One urgent case that deserves national attention is the continued use of induction furnace in steelmaking by HighTension Industrial Corporation in Sta. Maria, Bulacan.

The Sangguniang Bayan of Sta. Maria passed Ordinance No. 704 on October 14, 2024. The ordinance strictly prohibits the use of induction furnace in the smelting of metal scrap and encourages the upgrading to modern machinery and equipment consistent with

environmental technology related to the steel production process.

The ordinance became effective in June 2025, while the six-month grace period ended in December 2025. Yet, based on information brought to our attention, HighTension Industrial Corporation allegedly continues to use induction furnace in its factory located at Lot 1-B, Road Lot 8, Delco Industrial Compound, Barangay Sta. Clara, Sta. Maria, Bulacan.

Because of this, I formally filed on June 19 a graft and administrative complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman against Sta. Maria Mayor Bartolome “Omeng” R. Ramos for his alleged continued failure to implement Ordinance No. 704 and its implementing rules and regulations.

The issue, however, is bigger than one municipality, one mayor, or one company. It goes to the heart of whether government will enforce laws intended to protect the public.

Induction furnaces for steelmaking have already been banned and phased out in China because of pollution concerns, high emissions and the production of low-quality steel. Induction furnaces cannot remove most impurities in smelting, causing inferior products. Yet these obsolete and polluting technologies found their way into Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. They are now being used by certain operators despite the environmental and product safety concerns that led other countries to reject them.

This should alarm us.

If a technology has been rejected elsewhere because it pollutes communities and produces inferior steel, why should Filipinos be made to bear the risk? Why should our communities host these operations? Why should our consumers unknowingly buy steel products that may not meet the standards required for safe construction?

The environmental implications are serious. Steelmaking through induction furnace may generate fumes, smoke, dust, slag, wastewater and other pollutants. Communities near these factories may be exposed to environmental hazards that affect air quality, health and general welfare. The people living

The recent magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao on June 8, 2026, and caused the collapse of buildings and structures in General Santos City and other affected areas, should serve as a national wake-up call. So should the tragic collapse of a nine-story building under construction in Angeles City, Pampanga on May 24, 2026.

and working around these facilities have the right to know whether these operations are compliant with environmental laws.

This is why we have asked the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to conduct a thorough inspection and environmental compliance audit of HighTension’s operations. If violations are found, or if its continued operation poses a serious threat to the environment and nearby communities, the DENR and its Environmental Management Bureau should issue the appropriate cease and desist order.

Environmental enforcement must be swift. Even the Supreme Court recognizes the urgency of environmental protection. Under the Rules of Procedure for Environmental Cases, lower courts are prohibited from issuing temporary restraining orders or writs of preliminary injunction against lawful actions of government agencies enforcing environmental laws or preventing violations. This rule reflects a clear policy: environmental enforcement should not be easily delayed when public health, ecological protection and community safety are at stake.

We have also asked the Department of the Interior and Local Government to exercise its supervisory authority over local governments and direct the Municipal Government of Sta. Maria, through Mayor Ramos, to immediately implement Ordinance No. 704. Under the Local Government Code, a municipal mayor has the duty to enforce all laws and ordinances relative to the governance of the municipality.

An ordinance cannot be treated as a mere suggestion. Once validly passed and effective, it must be enforced. If violators continue to operate despite the ban, the public is entitled to ask: who benefits from non-enforcement, and who suffers because of it?

The answer is obvious. The violators benefit. The environment suffers. The surrounding communities suffer. Consumers suffer. Legitimate manufacturers that follow standards and invest in proper technology suffer. And, ultimately, the Filipino people suffer.

President Marcos has repeatedly emphasized the need to make the country more resilient against disasters. That goal cannot be

achieved by emergency response alone. We cannot keep treating disaster preparedness as something that begins after a tragedy. It must begin with the strict enforcement of laws, standards, and permits before the tragedy occurs. This means removing substandard construction materials from the market. It means stopping the manufacture and sale of steel products that do not comply with standards. It means ensuring that factories comply with environmental laws. It means making local officials accountable when they fail to enforce ordinances meant to protect the public. We humbly request that President Marcos consider directing the appropriate agencies—the DILG, DENR, DTI, Bureau of Philippine Standards, local government units, and law enforcement bodies—to collaborate in safeguarding the market from substandard steel and other construction materials.

Let me highlight that President Marcos has taken cognizance of several of our concerns that we sent to him through the Office of the President and has ordered the concerned agencies to act on them. These include the illegal importation of palm olein and the operation of environmentally destructive smelters of lead acid batteries in San Simon, Pampanga and other areas in the country. For these, we express our sincere gratitude. The government must inspect, test, seize, penalize and prosecute where warranted. It must close the gaps that allow unsafe products to enter the construction supply chain. It must ensure that environmental laws are enforced, not ignored. It must protect communities from polluting operations. It must protect consumers from dangerous products. It must protect legitimate industries from unfair competition. The collapse of buildings and structures during disasters is not just a story of nature’s force. Sometimes, it is also a story of human failure: failure to enforce standards, failure to inspect, failure to stop violators, failure to act before danger becomes tragedy. We cannot prevent earthquakes. We cannot stop typhoons from entering the country. But we can prevent substandard products from weakening our homes and buildings. We can prevent polluting technologies from harming our communities. We can prevent unsafe steel from being sold to unsuspecting consumers. That is where disaster preparedness must begin—“Para sa Bagong Pilipinas!”

D r. Jesus Lim Arranza is the Chairman Emeritus of the Federation of Philippine Industries and Fight Illicit Trade; a broad-based, multisectoral movement intended to protect consumers, safeguard government revenues and shield legitimate industries from the ill effects of smuggling.

Mideast oil revival gathers pace as Qatar sells crude to Asia

By Yongchang Chin & Weilun Soon

QATAR has joined Persian Gulf nations in reviving crude sales, as regional producers crank up activity following the US-Iran interim peace deal.

A shipment of the nation’s AlShaheen was sold this week to Taiwan’s Formosa Petrochemical Corp., which sought supplies for August to September, according to traders familiar with the matter. Some of the same grade, as well as Qatar’s Marine and Land varieties, was also sold to an Indian refiner last week, said the traders, who asked not to be named as they may not speak publicly. The deals represent the first observed transactions for Qatari crude to refiners in Asia since the war began, although the country has been much more active in reviving

production and exports of liquefied natural gas.

Oil futures have cratered this month — with the Brent benchmark erasing all of its wartime gains — as the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz enables sales and shipments to resume. The uptick in activity has seen crude exports from the United Arab Emirates rebound, as well as revivals in Iraq and Kuwait.

Qatar has been getting LNG tankers into and out of the Persian Gulf through the strait recently. It now plans to rapidly boost production of the super-chilled fuel once the

Qatar has been getting LNG tankers into and out of the Persian Gulf through the strait recently. It now plans to rapidly boost production of the super-chilled fuel once the waterway fully reopens, restoring most export capacity in two months, said other people familiar with the matter.

waterway fully reopens, restoring most export capacity in two months, said other people familiar with the matter. There’s been increased tanker activity near Qatar’s Ras Laffan facility. The Kiku, a Greek-owned supertanker, is currently loading from the Al-Shaheen floating storage and offloading terminal to receive 2 million barrels of Qatari crude, ship-

tracking data show. Kiku appeared in the Persian Gulf early June 19, after last broadcasting from the Gulf of Oman on June 13, making the very large crude carrier one of the first mainstream tankers to enter the gulf since the US-Iran deal. Separately, state-owned QatarEnergy had also offered a cargo of gasoline for export next month, from its Mesaieed refinery in the Persian Gulf, in a sign that wider processing operations were ramping up. QatarEnergy—which is responsible for the country’s energy supply, including oil, products and LNG—didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment. In addition, Apex Shipping & Energy Ltd. in Greece, listed as manager of Kiku on the Equasis database, didn’t respond to emails seeking comment. With assistance from Nicholas Lua /Bloomberg

Dr. Jesus Lim Arranza

Friday, June 26, 2026

STUDENT SHOT AFTER SCHOOL GRADUATION IN DAVAO DE ORO

By Manuel T. Cayon

DAVAO CITY – A student survived a slay try on Thursday when he was shot in the head after his family left the college graduation ceremony in Davao de Oro province in southeastern Mindanao.

The shooting followed an earlier shooting inside a high school in Leyte on Monday where two young gunmen shot dead three students and wounded 15 others.

A police report remained sketchy but said the Davao incident occurred at 12:40 pm Thursday along the national highway in Purok Gemelina, Barangay Kingking, Pantukan, Davao de Oro. The place is 118 kilometers east of here.

Initial investigation conducted by the Pantukan police station said the victim sustained four gunshot wounds in different parts of his body. The police did not identify the victim and suspect in the report filed at the regional police office.

It said the victim was in the company of his family after attending his graduation ceremony at Kolehiyo ng Pantukan. They were aboard the family’s yellow Suzuki minivan bearing Plate No. JAN 2672 when the suspect arrived on board a gray minivan without a plate number.

“Without any apparent reason, the suspect/s repeatedly shot the victim using a suspected .45 caliber firearm. Thereafter, the suspect/s immediately fled towards an unknown direction,” the Pantukan police said in the report. The victim was brought to the Davao de Oro Provincial Hospital-Pantukan for medical treatment and was reported in stable condition.

Police recovered from the crime scene four cartridge cases and one fired bullet from suspected .45 caliber firearm. It did not say if the suspect acted alone or with an accomplice although it said it has conducted follow-up operations. Police said it was still awaiting updates from the Pantukan police.

Regulatory approvals, dated market rules stall RE goals

By Lenie Lectura

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) said on Thursday that the country’s renewable energy (RE) goals may not be achieved on time due to delays in regulatory approvals and outdated market rules, among other factors.

The Philippines is aiming for a 30-percent renewable energy share in the country’s power mix, increasing to 50 percent by 2040. To date, RE accounts for approximately 25 percent of the Philippines’s total power generation mix. Coal remains the dominant baseload provider.

“We are not on track at the pace we need to be, but we are accelerating. The gap is not in ambition...the gap is in execution: we’re coming from an era where the regulatory approvals took too long, the grid connections were not built, the market rules had not caught up with the technology,” ERC chairperson Francis Saturnino Juan explained on Thursday. If these bottlenecks are addressed, “then 35 percent is achievable. Not easily. But achievable,” the ERC chief stressed.

The most acute bottleneck in the ERC’s workflow has historically been the approval of power supply agreements (PSAs) and capital expenditure (capex) projects. Juan said these are the decisions that give generation investments their regulatory validity and give transmission and distribution

utilities the authority to undertake and recover prudent infrastructure expenditure.

From August 2024 to May 2025— the period prior to Juan’s appointment as the new ERC chairperson—the ERC issued final approvals for PSAs in only six cases. In contrast, Juan said during the comparable 10-month period under the current commission—August 2025 to May 2026—his office issued 168 final PSA approvals.

“That is a twenty-eight-fold increase. On capex approvals, the comparable figures are six and 121—a twenty-fold increase. On rule-making resolutions, we went from 14 to 35—a 150-percent increase, with 15 of those 29 resolutions issued in 2026 alone.

If we maintain the pace of PSA approvals we have achieved in the past 10 months—168 approvals versus six in the comparable prior period — and if the smart grid infrastructure from our AMI Rules begins rolling out at scale, then the goals are achievable,” said Juan.

For the part of the Department of Energy (DOE), the country is on track to hitting its RE goals.

“Through the Philippine Energy Plan, we are working toward increasing the share of renewable energy in the power generation mix to 35 percent by 2030, and 50 percent by 2040. We are on target to 2030, reaching 25 percent renewable energy in 2025. The data shows that the market is responding to these goals,”

said DOE Secretary Sharon Garin during the PhilEnergy Expo 2026 held at the World Trade Center. She was referring to the latest Board of Investments (BOI) report that RE not only drives but leads Philippine investments. For green-lane projects approved from January to April 2026, RE represented P339.09 billion invest-

Peso may slide to ₧63 to a dollar by year’s end–ANZ Research

By Andrea E. San Juan

ROSPECTS of a rate hike

Pby the United States’s central bank this year, coupled with the Philippines’s widening external balance, could cause the peso to slide to P63 against the dollar by the end of the year, ANZ Research said.

In its latest economic outlook report for Asia, ANZ Research, the research arm of Australiabased ANZ Banking Group Limited said: “We expect the PHP to continue to trade above the 60/ USD level before depreciating to 63/USD by the end of the year.”

This, ANZ Research pointed out, even as the currency has appreciated in recent weeks as “hopes of a US-Iran deal increased.”

However, it explained that the currency strength is seen to be “limited” as it is being burdened by “widening external balance deficit.”

On top of this, ANZ Research said “domestic political turbulence will also weigh on investor sentiment.”

Further, the think tank noted that the US Federal Reserve’s messaging turned hawkish in the its monetary policymaking body’s or Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting in June.

“Markets are now pricing in the possibility of a rate hike this year. This will add another layer of uncertainty for the PHP this year,” said ANZ Research.

External balances under pressure

THE think tank also underscored that while a detailed breakdown is not yet available, the widening balance of payments (BOP) deficit is “likely driven” by a larger trade deficit and weak foreign investment inflows.

“Looking ahead, pressure on the external account is expected

to persist. The terms-of-trade shock will continue to widen the trade deficit,” ANZ Research also noted.

On the services side, ANZ Research said steady revenues from the business process outsourcing sector are expected to sustain the services surplus.

“The government is also seeking to boost tourism, although domestic constraints may limit the strength of the recovery.

While remittance inflows will provide some support, their impact is likely to be outweighed by the expanding trade deficit,” it also noted.

Further, ANZ Research said it expects the current account deficit to expand to 3.6 percent of GDP in 2026, up from 3.3 percent in 2025.

On the financial account, it noted that portfolio outflows likely “persisted” in the first half of 2026 due to elevated geopolitical risks stemming from the Middle East conflict.

“In the first five months of 2025, foreign investors had withdrawn USD4.6 billion from Philippine assets,” it pointed out. Foreign direct investment inflows are also expected to soften due to cautious business sentiment and weak domestic investment activity.

“Overall, we expect a wider BoP deficit of 1.5 percent of GDP in 2026,” ANZ Research said.

The research arm of the Australia-based bank also pointed out that the overall BOP deficit of the Philippines widened to $7.3 billion in the first five months of 2026, exceeding the full-year deficit recorded in 2025.

(See:https://businessmirror. com.ph/2026/06/22/may-bopswings-to-surplus-on-remittances-bpo-take/)

See “Peso,” A2

See “RE goals,” A2

‘Stopping violence must start outside school gates’

By Bless Aubrey Ogerio

PREVENTING school violence requires stronger support systems at home, in schools, and within communities, and intervention must begin before warning signs escalate into tragedy, the government’s population commission said.

In a statement following recent incidents of violence involving students, the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) said such cases underscore the need to focus on prevention rather than solely on accountability after an incident occurs.

“At the Commission on Population and Development, we believe that prevention begins long before a crisis unfolds,” the agency said. The CPD said school violence should not be viewed solely as a law enforcement or school discipline issue, but also as a concern involving families, adolescent development, mental health, and community support systems.

“Every tragedy involving young people should compel us to ask not only how violence occurred, but how it could have been prevented,” it said. The agency emphasized the role of families in shaping children’s behavior, noting that responsible parenthood goes beyond providing basic needs. Parents and caregivers, it said, must also maintain open communication with their children, recognize behavioral changes, help them manage emotions, and guide them through the challenges of adolescence.

According to the CPD, adolescence is a critical stage marked by significant emotional, psychological, and social changes, with young people increasingly influenced by peers, online platforms, and their surroundings.

These realities highlight the importance of adolescent health and development programs that promote emotional resilience, life skills, sound decision-making, healthy relationships, and helpseeking behavior, the agency said.

The commission also called for stronger child protection mechanisms in schools, including guidance and counseling services, psychosocial support, anti-bullying programs, and referral systems that can identify learners experiencing emotional distress or behavioral risks before situations escalate.

“Schools must remain safe spaces where every learner feels protected, respected, and supported,” it said.

POLICE examine the family van of the student who was shot after attending a graduation ceremony. PHOTO COURTESY OF PANTUKAN POLICE

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

MSpectrum, Japanese firms create JV for solar projects

By Lenie Lectura @llectura

MSPECTRUM

Inc., Tokyo Century Corp. (TC), and JFE Engineering Corp. have established a joint venture, MSpectrum Taiyo Inc., to develop solar projects for industrial facilities in the country.

Under the agreement, MSpectrum will hold a 60-percent equity stake in the joint venture, while TC and JFEE will hold 30 percent and 10 percent, respectively.

The partnership aims to accelerate the solar energy adoption of Japanese enterprises, tapping opportunities in the country’s growing commercial and industrial solar market. The partnership combines MSpectrum’s local market presence

in solar energy, backed by Meralco’s expertise in electricity, along with TC’s global financing expertise, and JFEE’s engineering and renewable energy experience.

“Beyond supporting the growth of our organizations, this partnership aims to contribute to the country’s broader energy transition by expanding access to clean and reliable energy solutions, helping businesses manage energy costs, reduce carbon

emissions, and enhance their longterm competitiveness,” MSpectrum Chairman and Meralco COO Ronnie L. Aperocho said.

MSpectrum is the wholly owned solar subsidiary of the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco).

The collaboration builds on a longstanding relationship among the partners that began in 2018 through Japan’s Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) program. Through the initiative, several solar power purchase agreement (PPA) projects were successfully implemented between 2019 and 2021 with support from the Japanese government.

“In the Philippines, rapid economic growth has led to rising electricity demand and an urgent need for renewable energy. Introducing clean energy while reducing costs has become an important priority for many Japanese companies operating in the country.

Through MSpectrum Taiyo, we

aim to provide reliable and sustainable solar solutions that help address these needs,” TC Senior Managing Executive Officer and Global Business Unit President Toshio Kitamura said.

JFEE, one of Japan’s leading engineering companies, will contribute its extensive experience in energy and infrastructure projects, including more than 100 megawatts (MW) of solar PPA projects in Japan and a strong presence in the Philippines through its affiliated companies and water and wastewater projects.

“This joint venture will provide clean energy to Japanese companies operating in the Philippines through solar PPA solutions. As demand for carbon neutrality continues to grow, we believe this collaboration will help businesses achieve their sustainability goals while contributing to a more sustainable,” JFEE Managing Director and Head of the Power Business Division Atsushi Kobayashi said.

Bounty Fresh vows to support raisers

By Mary Jade Jadormio

LOCAL poultry integrator

Bounty Fresh Group has committed to prop up its output and strengthen the country’s food security even in the face of rising costs.

Marking its 40th anniversary, the company also said it will continue to expand opportunities for local producers as demand for affordable protein products continues to grow.

“For four decades, Filipinos have given Bounty a place on their tables, and the biggest way we can pay back their trust is by strengthening the country’s food security,” Bounty Fresh Group Holdings Inc. CEO Kenneth Cheng said.

For Bounty, strengthening food security begins with improving productivity at the farm level, where local producers continue to face rising costs and increasing pressure to keep food accessible to consumers.

America’s

TThe company works with farmers and livestock raisers through its agribusiness operations, providing nutrition products, technical assistance and market access aimed at improving animal health, productivity and profitability.

Those interventions, according to the company, help support local food production while creating livelihood opportunities in rural communities.

“We want the whole agricultural sector to thrive together, so we empower thousands of entrepreneurs across the country and help farmers and livestock raisers succeed by providing advanced nutrition, technology, and technical support,” said Rodolfo Abelardo Ablazo, general manager of Bounty’s Commercial Feeds-Agribusiness Group.

A stronger agricultural sector, he added, translates to more stable food supplies, job creation and wider access to affordable food

friendship

HE first salvo was a flyer.

Alex posted one in the laundry room of the New York apartment complex where she’s lived for more than three decades. The 60-year-old, who works in operations, invited her neighbors to stop by, one morning, for coffee. “I hardly knew anybody, and nobody else really knew anybody.”

No one responded at first, but she wasn’t deterred. Eventually a few people started gathering in her apartment. Alex deliberately described that klatch as a place for “small talk,” somewhere to make conversation and find company. Her own motivation was simple: making new friends, ideally people unlike those already in her circle.

“I’m a very accomplished loner,” she says now. “But we don’t talk about relationships at all in our culture, other than how to get a mate.” She had plenty of acquaintances but was craving more people whose interests overlapped more closely with hers.

Alex credits coaching sessions with Kat Vellos for pushing her to make that first gesture and face her embarrassment, although requests we only use her first name. There is still shame around admit -

for Filipino families. Over four decades, Bounty expanded from a 5,000-layer chicken farm in Sta. Maria, Bulacan into an integrated poultry business with operations spanning feed milling, hatcheries, dressing plants, broiler complexes and food retail.

The company has also invested in animal health and biosecurity programs, including its “No Antibiotics Ever” initiative, which relies on strict farm management, nutrition and disease prevention measures to reduce the routine use of antibiotics in poultry production.

In 2023, Bounty consolidated its operations under the One Bounty structure, bringing together its poultry, agribusiness, branded products and restaurant businesses under a unified strategic direction.

Currently, the company operates more than 1,800 Chooks-to-Go and Uling Roasters stores nationwide,

while the Cheng family has also expanded its footprint in the food industry through its investment in The Bistro Group.

The company said it sees local agricultural production as “a critical pillar” in ensuring that Filipino consumers have continued access to safe, affordable and high-quality food.

The Philippines is currently grappling with food security concerns mainly due to the war in the Middle East which has caused spikes in the prices of farm inputs, including fertilizer.

The country is still a net food importer as it continues to rely on other nations to plug the supply shortfall in agricultural products, such as rice and meat.

In 2022, the country ranked 67th out of 113 economies in the Global Food Security Index, highlighting persistent challenges in food availability, affordability and resilience.

recession has become a startup opportunity

ting loneliness then seeking—and paying for—support.

“People have coaches and therapists for romantic relationships or parenting skills or physical fitness,” says the San Francisco Bay Areabased Vellos, who founded Platonic Action Lab (PAL) with the simple mission to help people expand and deepen their social circles. “This is no different. There’s nothing wrong with going to an expert who knows more about that than you do to help you be successful if you want to have a good life.”

Loneliness is a chronic state of mind for 1 in 10 American adults, according to the Social Connection in America report published at the end of 2025. Two years earlier, the surgeon general considered the same issue so pressing there was a government-sponsored report.

Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation showed that time spent alone by Americans rose from 285 minutes per day in 2003 to 333 minutes in 2020—or an entire extra day every month. And it has tangible outcomes: The World Health Organization reports that 1 in 6 people worldwide is affected by loneliness, with significant impacts on health and well-being. Loneliness is linked

to an estimated 100 deaths every hour — more than 871,000 deaths annually.

It’s a trend that’s more pressing when taken in the longer term. In the 1990s, the Friends decade, just 3 percent of American men and 2 percent of women said they had no close friends at all. In 2021, that number had risen to 15 percent of men and 10 percent of women, per the Survey Center on American Life. Feelings of isolation have quintupled in 30 years.

A new niche of companies, community builders and coaches are stepping into the void. Call it the connection economy. But even as these businesses meet a deep human need, their struggles to become scalable businesses show the challenges in making money out of making those connections.

Social bootcamp

ALEX readily admits that living in the heart of Manhattan can feel deeply isolating; her Turtle Bay neighborhood in Midtown might be densely residential but New York norms mean one coexists with millions by generally ignoring one another. Her goal with PAL was twofold: to broaden her circle to incorporate more like-minded folks, as

well as foster a sense of community in her immediate neighborhood.

“I said to myself, ‘I don’t even care if I like people. I want to be in my life living with my neighbors as connected people. I’m not looking for them to light me up.’” She relished how practical and actionable her courses at PAL proved, with concrete takeaways evident at every juncture, and assignments to experiment — hence that laundry room flyer.

Vellos, a trained facilitator, spent five years researching We Should Get Together, which she published in 2020 and intended to address the mounting disconnection evident even before the pandemic. Out of that grew what she calls a “bootcamp for developing your skills and making and deepening friendships” with a curriculum built on case studies and best practices, including six different types of invitations and strategies for getting closer to existing acquaintances. Costs range from $398 for a three-month, self-guided course to $499 for a live, nine-week group program (an extra $100 buys one-on-one coaching from Vellos).

Continued on B2

By Carmel Pedroza

CEBU City—The Jollibee Group’s Danao Commissary is proving that large-scale food manufacturing can thrive on renewable energy (RE), according to an official of First Gen Group (First Gen).

First Gen Energy Solutions Vice President and Head of Solar and Commercial Business Development Mark Malabanan highlighted the facility’s achievement of operating on approximately 99 percent clean energy, describing it as “a significant milestone” that has helped strengthen operational reliability while reducing exposure to fuel supply disruptions and volatile energy prices.

“We are very proud of our collaboration and partnership with the Jollibee Group,” he said in a statement. He noted that the Danao solar project was among the fastest RE installations undertaken by First Gen, with preparatory work beginning in September 2025 and initial energization completed by midJanuary 2026.

The renewable energy setup combines electricity generated from more than 3,900 rooftop solar photovoltaic panels with geothermal power supplied by the Bac-Man geothermal facility.

Together, these sources provide the energy needed to keep the commissary running smoothly while significantly lowering its carbon footprint.

The commissary in Danao City, Cebu serves as the group’s largest production facility in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Opened in January, it manufactures products for several brands under the company, including Jollibee, Chowking, Mang Inasal, Red Ribbon and Burger King.

The facility is also among the first manufacturing plants in the country

SY-LED firms SM Investments Corp. (SMIC) and BDO Unibank Inc. led seven Philippine firms that made it into Forbes magazine’s Global 2000, which ranks the largest public companies in the world.

The said ranking used four metrics—sales, profits, assets and market value. SMIC, the holding firm of the Sy family, was ranked 1,029th on the list, BDO was next local firm ranked at 1,082nd.

to incorporate solar power into its design and construction from the outset. Its rooftop solar installation has a capacity of 2.8 megawatt-peak (MWp), making RE a core component of daily operations from day one. By pairing solar and geothermal power, the commissary has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than 70 percent while helping stabilize electricity costs despite ongoing concerns over fuel availability and pricing.

The Danao solar project forms part of Jollibee’s broader sustainability agenda, “Joy for Tomorrow,” which promotes responsible business growth and environmental stewardship.

Within its manufacturing and logistics operations, the company continues to pursue initiatives focused on energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, reduced plastic consumption and recycling. Company officials said Danao is the first manufacturing and logistics site to begin operations with solar panels already in place, reflecting the group’s strategy of embedding sustainability into facility development and expansion plans.

The project also builds on earlier RE investments.

In 2023, Jollibee partnered with First Gen to install around 17,000 solar panels with a combined capacity exceeding 9 megawatts (MW) across commissaries and distribution centers in Parañaque and Laguna.

Completed in 2024, the initiative also included the deployment of a remote energy monitoring system to improve electricity management across logistics operations.

Beyond solar power, First Gen currently supplies a total of 11 MW of electricity to the group’s manufacturing and logistics facilities nationwide, supporting the company’s transition toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.

“We are pleased to be recognized anew as the country’s top company on the Forbes Global 2000 list. This reflects the trust of our customers and investors, the work of our people, and the strength of the businesses we have built over the years. We continue to invest in the Philippines because we believe in the country’s future and long-term growth,” SMIC President and CEO Frederic C. DyBuncio said. Top Frontier Investment Holdings Inc., the company that controls San Miguel Corp., was ranked 1,170th, while Enrique K. Razon’s port operator International Container Terminal Services Inc. was at 1,375th. VG Cabuag

Banking&Finance

BIR to file cases in flood control corruption issue

By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto

HE Bureau of Internal Rev -

Tenue (BIR) received the green light to file 44 criminal tax cases against former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) employees accused of owing government of over P1.68 billion.

The tax-collecting agency said on Thursday that the Department of Justice (DOJ) approved the filing of tax cases against Jaypee De Leon Mendoza, Henry C. Alcantara and Brice Ericson D. Hernandez, who were linked to the flood control corruption scandal.

Criminal information may now be filed before the Court of Tax Appeals after the DOJ has found probable cause to charge the trio with tax evasion under Section 254 and related violations under Section 255 of the National Internal Revenue Code, or the Tax Code.

The largest case involves Alcantara, whom the DOJ recommended charging with 18 criminal information covering taxable years 2022 to 2024 with P913.83 million in tax liabilities.

Investigators found significant disparities between his reported income and acquisitions, and no income tax returns were filed during the years under investigation.

Hernandez will also face 10 criminal charges covering taxable years 2020 through 2024, involving alleged tax liabilities of P593.78 million. His expenditures substantially exceeded his declared income for five consecutive years and no income tax returns were filed during the period.

Meanwhile, the DOJ advised the filing of 16 criminal cases against Mendoza covering taxable years 2021 to 2024. The BIR said the former DPWH employee allegedly underdeclared his income, resulting in tax liabilities of P179.79 million.

The BIR employed the expenditure method, a tax-audit technique used to reconstruct a taxpayer’s income by comparing reported earnings with actual expenditures. This can be treated as evidence of unreported taxable income.

“The DOJ’s finding of probable cause is an important milestone in the enforcement process. These cases demonstrate the Bureau’s continuing commitment to enforce the tax laws based on evidence and in accordance with the law,” Internal Revenue Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza said.

“The Bureau will continue to enforce the tax laws firmly, fairly, and consistently, while respecting due process at every stage of the proceedings,” he added.

Rethinking member engagement in the Digital Age

IN a recent episode of the PCAAE Podcast, “Association Matters,” I found myself revisiting a question that continues to challenge association leaders everywhere: why do strong membership numbers not always translate into strong member engagement? In my conversation with Lomesh Shah, CEO of Tradewing, a US-based association membership engagement software company, we unpacked this paradox in depth. The result was a powerful reminder that in today’s digital-first world, associations are no longer just membership organizations, they must become communities. This article distills key insights from that interview.

One of the most striking points Lomesh raised is the common confusion between membership retention and member engagement. While many associations celebrate growing membership bases, he cautioned that numbers can be misleading. In some cases, membership is driven by necessity rather than choice, such as professional bodies linked to continuing education or licensing requirements. In these situations, members remain enrolled but are not necessarily engaged. Lomesh emphasized that membership numbers are a lagging indicator, while engagement is the true leading indicator of association health. In other words, retention follows engagement, not the other way around. This distinction becomes even more critical in a world where digital communities dominate daily life. With billions of people spending hours on platforms such as LinkedIn and Facebook, among others, members are now accustomed to interactive, peer-driven spaces. Associations, Lomesh noted, must rethink their role. They are no longer simply content distributors or top-down information channels. Instead, they must evolve into facilitators of connection. “Associations are not audiences,” he stressed during the interview, “they are places for lifetime connections in a profession or field.” Yet, data suggests a worrying gap. A 2025 global report he cited revealed only about 15 percent of association members engage within a 120-day period. This low level of participation highlights a structural issue: many associations still rely on newsletters, events, and broadcaststyle communication rather than fostering ongoing peer interaction. Lomesh argued that the real value today lies in belonging and professional connection, not just receiving information. He illustrated this with a practical example. In a geographically diverse country such as the Philippines, where professionals are spread across more than 2,000 inhabited islands, traditional engagement models are limited by physi-

‘Degree of moral hazard’ seen in BSP relief stance

By Andrea E. San Juan

THE central bank’s recent policy move to grant regulatory relief to banks raises “legitimate policy questions,” according to a former deputy governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

“Regulatory relief inevitably creates some degree of moral hazard,” former BSP Deputy Governor Diwa C. Guinigundo said in a report issued last Thursday.

Guinigundo was referring to the BSP’s move to extend regulatory relief measures to banks amid the fallout from the state’s declaration of an energy emergency due to the US-Iran conflict.

He said that by such move, borrowers, for one, may expect future payment relief during external shocks while banks, for another, may become less disciplined in recognizing “emerging” credit risks or strengthening capital buffers if “regulatory forbearance is perceived as readily available.”

“Prolonged or repeated relief could also delay the recognition of problem assets, distort credit allocation, and weaken market discipline,” the former BSP official added.

cal distance. A member in Mindanao or the Visayas may rarely attend events in Manila, yet still needs meaningful interaction. The solution, Lomesh suggested, lies in building micro-communities or special interest groups within the larger association ecosystem. Whether focused on AI, cybersecurity, or startups, as in the case of the Philippine Computer Society, these smaller, purpose-driven spaces allow members to engage more deeply and meaningfully.

Lomesh also shared a compelling case study of a music education association that achieved a 30 percent membership growth after shifting to a digital-first platform with structured micro-communities. By enabling students and educators to connect based on shared interests and experience levels, the association transformed engagement from passive participation to active collaboration. Finally, he emphasized the importance of simplifying digital ecosystems. Many associations, he observed, suffer from fragmented tools, i.e., multiple websites, apps, and logins that confuse rather than connect members. Instead, associations should design integrated platforms that support engagement before, during, and after events. From pre-event community discussions to post-event polls and continuous webinars, engagement must be seen as a year-round process, not an occasional activity.

The overarching message from Lomesh is clear: associations must intentionally design for engagement. This requires shifting from staff-driven communication to peer-driven communities, identifying member “heroes” who can lead conversations, and empowering micro-communities to sustain themselves.

As associations navigate an increasingly digital and decentralized world, the challenge is no longer about attracting members, it is about activating them. And as this conversation made clear, the future of associations lies not in bigger numbers, but in stronger, more connected communities.

Octavio Peralta is founder and volunteer CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives (PCAAE), the “association of associations.” The PCAAE will hold its 14th Annual Associations Summit (AS14) on November 24, 2026, at the Asian Institute of Management. The views he expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror. E mail: bobby@pcaae.org.

Guinigundo was referring to Memorandum 2026-027 that the central bank issued on June 19 and which grants temporary regulatory relief on banks’ holdings of pesodenominated government securities.

He explained that the measure was designed to cushion the “adverse effects” of heightened market volatility following the escalation of the Middle East conflict. “Rising oil prices increased inflation expecta-

tions worldwide, pushing bond yields higher and depressing government securities prices.”

Activated framework

GUINIGUNDO wrote that since banks classify a “substantial portion” of their government securities portfolio as “financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income” (FVOCI), the resulting unrealized mark-to-market losses directly reduced banks’ capital adequacy ratio (CAR) and Common Equity Tier 1 (CET 1) capital.

“To prevent temporary market valuation losses from unnecessarily weakening banks’ regulatory capital, the BSP allowed qualifying government securities to be reclassified as “held-to-collect” (HTC) assets from April to December 2026,” he said, providing the gist of the memorandum issued by the central bank.

Guinigundo explained that rather than altering banks’ underlying financial condition, the measure sought to prevent short-term market volatility from impairing banks’ lending capacity and financial intermediation.

He earlier noted that the BSP memorandum “activated” the emergency relief framework established under Circular 1221 following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s declaration of a State of National

Energy Emergency through Executive Order 110.

Not merely inflation

ACCORDING to Guinigundo, the securities-portfolio relief formed only one component of a “broader package” of regulatory measures.

The latter includes temporary borrower relief through loan payment grace periods and restructuring and regulatory forbearance on the classification of eligible loans as past due or non-performing.

The package also includes enhanced rediscounting and liquidity support, temporary operational and reporting relief for supervised financial institutions and encouragement for banks to waive or reduce fees on InstaPay and PESONet transactions.

Guinigundo said that, taken together, these measures “demonstrate that the BSP viewed the geopolitical shock not merely as an inflation problem but as a potential source of financial system stress.”

Moody’s Ratings also recently flagged the move of the central bank as “credit negative.” (See: https:// businessmirror.com.ph/2026/06/24/ moodys-flags-bsps-relief-offer-tobanks-quasi-banks/)

According to the Investopedia website, a “credit negative” is “a label used by credit rating agencies to describe an event, trend, or action that weakens a borrower’s financial health, thereby increasing their risk of default. It usually serves as a precursor to a potential credit rating downgrade.”

Distinct response

GUINIGUNDO said the central bank’s recent approach to the headwinds battering the financial sector is “not without precedent,” as the BSP also implemented extensive prudential relief during the Covid-19 pandemic. Still, he said that BSP’s response appears “unusual” among central

banks in the region.

Like the BSP, the central banks of Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Korea have responded to the Middle East conflict through monetary policy, liquidity operations, exchange-rate management, and forward guidance.

“None, however, has announced a comparable package of prudential relief for banks directly linked to the conflict,” Guinigundo said adding that this “distinction” reflects two different assessments of the nature of the shock.

“Most regional authorities have treated the conflict primarily as a macroeconomic event requiring monetary policy adjustments to address inflation, exchange-rate pressures, and slowing growth,” he said. In contrast, he pointed out that the BSP has viewed the same event through both macroeconomic and financial stability lenses.

“Consequently, it has combined monetary policy with macroprudential and microprudential measures intended to preserve the banking system’s capacity to absorb temporary market stress and continue extending credit,” Guinigundo said.

The Philippine approach, therefore, “represents a broader interpretation of the central bank’s financial stability mandate,” he stressed.

Important actions NONETHELESS, Guinigundo underscored the importance of ensuring that regulatory relief remains “exceptional, targeted, transparent, and time-bound.”

Equally important, he said, is “continued supervisory vigilance.”

In particular, the former BSP deputy governor stressed that banks should continue rigorous stress testing, liquidity management, business continuity planning, and capital planning despite temporary regulatory flexibility.

Govt agencies used cash allocations slower vs ’25 ADB backs PHL’s push for spending efficiency

GOVERNMENT agencies utilized 89 percent of their cash allocations in the first five months of the year, a slower pace than a year earlier, according to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

Line departments, state-run corporations and local government units (LGUs) used P2.106 trillion of the P2.367 trillion in notices of cash allocation (NCAs) released from January to May.

There are still some P260.834 billion in unused NCAs during the period, DBM data showed.

The utilization rate was lower than the 94 percent recorded in the same period last year, when agencies spent P1.978 trillion of the P2.114 trillion in cash allocations released by the government.

Having a higher utilization rate reflects that agencies are able to promptly disburse funds and implement budgeted programs and projects.

According to Budget Undersecretary Mary Anne Z. Dela Vega, functional group head of the Budget Preparation and Execution Group, the slower pace was due to the differences in the timing of disbursements and the volume of cash allocation requests submitted by implementing agencies.

“Agencies have become more calibrated in their submissions, aligning their requests for cash allocations more closely with actual payables ready for payment,” Dela Vega the told BusinessMirror. “This self-policing mechanism helps avoid cash floats and unnecessary lapsing

of NCAs.”

While the aggregate disbursement rate may appear lower at this stage compared to the same period last year, Dela Vega said the DBM expects it to accelerate in the coming months, as completion of projects, activities and other programs is forthcoming.

DBM data showed line departments utilized P1.334 trillion of the P1.592 trillion in cash allocations released to them during the fivemonth period, equivalent to an 83 percent utilization rate.

Despite receiving the secondlargest allocation, the DPWH posted the lowest utilization rate among line departments at 63.9 percent, while the DepEd recorded an 88.8 percent utilization rate.

The Commission on Human Rights posted the highest utilization rate at 99.6 percent, followed by the Department of Foreign Affairs at 99.5 percent and the Commission on Audit at 99.4 percent, according to DBM data.

Meanwhile, NCAs released for budgetary support to governmentowned and -controlled corporations reached P167.112 billion, of which 98.4 percent or P164.509 billion was utilized.

LGUs fully utilized the P607.348 billion in cash allocations released during the period.

The amount covered the National Tax Allotment, special shares for LGUs, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and other transfers to LGUs. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

TBy Bless Aubrey Ogerio

HE country has adopted a gov-

ernment-wide roadmap aimed at improving how public funds are budgeted, spent, and monitored, as authorities move to strengthen accountability and ensure government resources are directed toward priority services.

The Updated Public Financial Management (PFM) Reforms Roadmap 2024-2028 and its accompanying action plan set out priorities, timelines, and responsibilities for reforms covering the allocation, use, and reporting of public funds.

According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), which has served as the lead development partner for the initiative since 2023, the plan is intended to help channel more resources toward healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social protection programs.

ADB President Masato Kanda said the Philippines has taken on the challenge of strengthening public financial management through a coordinated reform effort.

“By grounding reform in evidence, broad participation, and clear accountability, the government is showing how every peso can work harder for the Filipino people,” Kanda said.

“ADB is proud to support this leadership as the country turns an ambitious reform agenda into better services, stronger resilience, and improved lives,” he added.

The multilateral lender said public financial management reforms are also intended to strengthen safeguards against corruption by improving oversight, accountability, and financial controls across government agencies.

“Stronger institutions, tighter con-

trols, and clearer accountability help ensure that development finance delivers real impact for the people who need it most,” the ADB said. The effort is being led by the government’s PFM Committee, which inc ludes the Department of Budget and Management, Department of Finance, and Commission on Audit.

According to the ADB, the reform process began in 2023 with a nationwide assessment that involved more than 1,100 participants, including government officials, civil society organizations, development partners and public finance practitioners.

The committee approved the roadmap in June 2024 before submitting it to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in September of the same year.

In 2025, the government also completed a Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability assessment, along with reviews examining how public spending addresses climate action, gender equality, disaster resilience, and programs for children. The findings identified areas of strength and weakness in existing systems and were used to update the reform agenda and corresponding action plan. The roadmap also outlines funding requirements, implementation risks, and technical support needed to carry out the reforms.

ADB said the success of the initiative will depend on sustained commitment from government agencies and consistent implementation.

“Turning the plans into results will depend on steady leadership, adequate funding, clear accountability, and the discipline to follow through. Sustaining that effort will be key to building public trust,” the bank said.

Octavio Peralta

A ssociation World

A soothing cup of herbal tea can begin in your garden

BY JESSICA DAMIANO The Associated Press

DRINK a fragrant cup of herbal tea, and the intoxicating scent of steeped herbs might calm your mind before you even take a sip. Even better is when they come from your own backyard herb garden. Mine includes several ingredients for my daily cup, and they’re all easy to grow and prepare. Herbal teas are distinct from true teas—such as black or green—which comes from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. (You can grow that in your garden, too.) Brew herbal teas with either freshly harvested or dried herbs.

Either way, settling in with a cup of homegrown herbal tea—hot or iced—can be a relaxing ritual.

GENERAL TIPS FOR GROWING HERBS

MOST herbs require a sunny spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily, but they benefit from a bit of afternoon shade in hot climates. They grow well in containers, raised beds and gardens in well-draining soil.

Fertilizer isn’t usually necessary, but incorporating a generous helping of compost into the soil at planting time will help nourish herbs throughout the growing season.

To sow directly outdoors, space seeds as directed on the package label. If seeds are super tiny, such as those of mints, mix them with a bit of sand, then scatter them directly over the soil. When they reach 2 inches tall, remove excess sprouts to achieve the recommended spacing between the remaining plants.

Check the “date to maturity” on the seed pack or plant tag. Seeds are best sown in spring, but purchased starter plants can be planted later as long as the expected harvest date falls within the remaining time frame before the first frost.

Keep the soil lightly moist until the plants become established, then water only when the soil dries out.

THESE 5 HERBS ARE POPULAR FOR TEA

HERE are some favorite herbs to get you started.

■ German chamomile: This annual plant’s miniature daisy-like flowers make a cheerful addition to the garden and brew into a lovely, delicate tea that pairs well with a bit of honey.

Provide regular doses of a flower-boosting fertilizer, such as 5-10-5, according to package

directions, beginning one month after planting.

■ Mints: There are many delicious choices. Favorites include peppermint, spearmint, chocolate mint, pineapple mint, lime mint and apple mint. All perennial mints grow and spread with abandon, so it’s best to plant them in pots rather than directly into the garden (unless you are willing to allow them to take over an entire area).

■ Agastache foeniculum: Commonly called anise hyssop, this perennial is often used as an ornamental in flower beds. The plant’s highly aromatic leaves make a tasty licorice-flavored tea. Although related to mint, it retains a mostly mounded form and does not spread as aggressively as its cousins. Note: For tea, be sure to plant the straight species (foeniculum); although other anise hyssops may be edible, their flavors vary.

■ Lemon balm: Another mint relative, this perennial should also be contained to prevent aggressive spread. Its subtle lemon flavor is refreshing

without being overpowering.

■ Lemon verbena: This perennial shrub grows best in partial shade and is a heavier feeder than many other herbs. Apply a liquid fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks to boost its health and vigor. The plant’s leaves impart a stronger, more intense lemon flavor than lemon balm.

WHEN TO HARVEST HERBS AND HOW TO STEEP THEM

HARVEST herbs in the morning, just after the dew has dried, when their essential oils are most concentrated. Rinse them well and pat dry.

To use right away, heat water to just below boiling, then pour 8 ounces into a cup with 2 to 3 tablespoons of chopped, fresh herbs. Cover the cup and allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain, and add sweetener or combine with other herbs, as desired.

SEE “HEARBAL TEA,” B5

Meraki heads to Seoul, carries PHL bid for KCDF three-peat

A VIBRANT celebration of music, talent and individuality painted Robinsons Galleria in every shade of passion and creativity as fans, artists, enthusiasts and performers came together for Everyone’s KPOP: KPOP in Colors, held on June 21. Hosted by the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) and The Seoul Shinmun Daily, in collaboration with the Korea Copyright Protection Agency-Manila Office (KCOPA), Philippine K-pop Convention Inc. (PKCI), and Robinsons Galleria, the event brought together various colors of the K-pop experience—from performances and fan culture to education, creativity, and meaningful conversations.

“This is my fourth time joining this event, and every year I am reminded of just how strong the connection between Filipinos and K-pop has become. What began as an appreciation for music has grown into a vibrant community built on creativity, passion and cultural exchange,” shared Kim Myeongjin, director of the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines, during his welcome remarks.

The excitement reached its peak during the highly anticipated K-Pop Cover Dance Festival (KCDF) Finals, where some of the country’s most talented dance crews battled for the opportunity to represent the Philippines on the world

stage. After an electrifying showcase of talent and passion, Meraki emerged as this year’s grand champion and will represent the Philippines at the KCDF World Championship in Seoul, Korea. As the country aims for a third consecutive world title, all eyes are now on the group as they prepare to continue the Philippines’ remarkable winning streak on the global stage. “The Philippines is proud to be the back-toback KCDF World Champion, a testament to the incredible talent of Filipino dancers. With that title comes even greater anticipation, and I am certain the competition will be fiercer than ever this year,” Director Kim added.

Beyond the competition stage, attendees experienced different dimensions of K-pop throughout the day. Arirang TV and the 2026 K-Influencer Academy joined the event for a special Influencer Talk featuring content creator Evan Tan, where fans gained insights into content creation and the growing influence of digital communities within K-pop culture.

Director Kim encouraged participants, expressing the hope that everyone would “take with you not only excitement and unforgettable memories, but also the inspiration to let your own talent and unique color shine—just like K-pop.”

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Emotional anger is counterproductive. Channel your energy into something meaningful, and it will encourage you to volunteer your time to worthwhile causes and concerns. Be the spokesperson and spread the word, and something good will develop. Your actions will improve your profile and bring you the respect you desire from those who can help you meet your expectations. ★★

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Travel, communicate, learn and participate, and you’ll open channels that lead to interesting encounters or new beginnings. What you contribute will be well received and offer what you need to bring about positive change. Speak from the heart and follow through with your promises, and rewards will exceed your expectations. Discipline and privacy will pay off. ★★★★

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You can desire change, but first consider any consequences that follow. Look inward. Consider what’s necessary and what’s feasible, and map out a plan that is practical and reflects who you are and what you can do. It’s up to you to source out what’s possible and to turn your ideas and desires into something concrete.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Bask in the things you enjoy doing most. Engage with people who share your passion and bring out the best in you. Turn your life journey into something that elevates you, and the results will lead to a new adventure. Use your skills and experience, and the proceeds will surpass your expectations. ★★★

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Spin situations to fit your needs. Use your voice, connections and willpower to make things happen. Don’t let what others choose to do slow down your agenda. A disciplined attitude and ingenuity will get you the results you want with the backing you need to complete your mission. Embrace change wholeheartedly. Romance is in the stars. ★★★

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Set high standards, and follow through with your plans. The opportunities you are searching for will unfold through the action you take and the people you approach. There is more power in your words if you stick to a script that is established and delivers promised results. Networking and approaching establishments that can benefit from your offer will be beneficial. ★★★

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Step up, choose a direction that excites you and turn your plans into reality. Using your skills, attributes and imagination will help you increase your earning potential through prospects that you initiate. Take the plunge, believe in your abilities and position yourself for success, and greater stability will follow. Build yourself up and attract worthwhile friends and relationships. ★★★

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Stifle anyone who pressures you to make a snap decision or change your plans. Look out for your interests and pursue your dreams. Invest time and money in yourself and what you own. Update documents,

MERAKI celebrated their victory as grand champion of the K-Pop Cover Dance Festival Philippines Finals, earning the opportunity to represent the Philippines at the KCDF World Championship in Seoul, Korea.

CAPRICE CAYETANO and Heath Jornales (known to fans as “CapEath”) bring their onscreen chemistry to the next level as they headline their first-ever television project via the romantic drama series You’re My Favorite Song alongside fellow Sparkle artists Marco Masa and Clifford.

Produced by GMA Public Affairs and airing in the GMA afternoon block beginning June 22, You’re My Favorite Song is a heartfelt journey filled with love, music and inspiration. Audiences can look forward to the young cast members’ portrayals of their respective roles in the series, which interweaves themes of family, friendship, love, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

For CapEath, You’re My Favorite Song is a must-watch series as it showcases not only their on-screen chemistry but also the talent and skills of the entire cast and team.

Hindi po ako makapaniwala kasi gusto ko rin po talagang makapag-try ng genre na light, very youthful, at alam ko pong makaka-relate ang mga Gen Z at Gen Alpha. You’re My Favorite Song is a must-watch because it is a heartwarming story about friends, family and dreams,” says Caprice. Napakasaya ko po dahil ito po ‘yung first series na isa po ako sa main cast. Hindi po ito dapat palagpasin dahil sa kilig na ibibigay namin na magpapapangiti sa viewers.” expresses Heath.

Marco and Clifford are likewise thrilled for this new project, especially since they are working alongside their friends. The series is also a reunion project for the Pinoy Big Brother Collab 2.0 ex-housemates.

The series follows the journey of Angel Dimaculangan (Caprice), a 16-year-old genius who moves to Solmera City with one goal in mind: to help her beloved grandfather, Lolo Xavi, fulfill his lifelong dream of building a resort on their beachfront property. However, what begins as a hopeful new chapter quickly turns into an uphill battle when the powerful Montaverde Empire sets its sights on their land, threatening everything Angel and her grandfather have worked for. Armed with her brilliant mind, resilient heart, and an unlikely group of Gen Z and Gen Alpha allies, can Angel hold her ground against the greedy forces determined to shutter her family’s future?

You’re My Favorite Song features a powerhouse cast composed of seasoned and respected actors, including Boboy Garrovillo, Katya Santos, James Blanco, Kazel Kinouchi, and Wilma Doesnt.

Completing the cast are promising young talents, Sparkle artists Waynona Collings, Princess Aliyah, Lee Victor, Kairo Lazarte, Andrei Fajardo, and Geo Mhanna who bring energy and depth to the vibrant world of Brighton Bay Academy and Solmera City.

You’re My Favorite Song is directed by JP Habac, the acclaimed filmmaker behind the popular movie I’m Drunk, I Love You.

Produced by GMA Public Affairs, the series promises an engaging blend of family drama, youthful romance, friendship, and high-stakes conflict as Angel fights to protect her family’s dream while navigating the challenges of adolescence.

You’re My Favorite Song airs Mondays through Fridays, 4 pm, on the GMA afternoon block.

Herbal tea...

To dry herbs for future use, spread them on a screen or tie a bunch of stems together and hang the bouquet upside down. Place in a well-ventilated, dark, dry spot until they become crunchy. Remove leaves or flowers from stems, then store in a tightly sealed glass jar in a cool, dark spot, like a kitchen cabinet, where they’ll retain their flavor and fragrance for about 2 years.

Because the drying process concentrates their flavors, you’ll need fewer herbs and less brewing time to make your tea, so start with 1 teaspoon and 5 minutes of steeping, adjusting according to your preference.

Show BusinessMirror

From YouTube to Hollywood: Digital creators are remaking the movie business

NEW YORK—Some of the most promising young filmmakers in the movie business are arriving in Hollywood already experts at entertaining audiences and going viral.

The twin sensations of Obsession and Backrooms—both by 20-something YouTubersturned-filmmakers—has put a new spotlight on an increasingly well-trod path to the director’s chair.

Hollywood executives are scouring platforms like YouTube, TikTok and Instagram to find the next Steven Spielberg. There, young aspiring filmmakers are not only working on their craft but building a relationship with audiences that can transfer to the box office.

“These filmmakers are in a dialogue with their audience from the word ‘Go.’ Their subscribers have direct input in each iteration of these things,” Mike De Luca, Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group cochairman, said at a conference last month. “By the time you get to the movie, they’ve had a billion test screenings.”

Obsession and Backrooms aren’t the first of their kind. Issa Rae and Bo Burnham are among those who began on YouTube. But more and more of today’s indie filmmakers began online. Here are some of the digital creators who have already broken through, and some who may soon:

n Kane Parsons. Known online as “Kane Pixels,” the 20-year-old Parsons is the director of the A24 horror hit Backrooms. The Petaluma, California, native began publishing videos online at the age of 9. His video series based on the creepypasta Backrooms meme led to his feature film debut, starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and Renate Reinsve. It’s made $250 million worldwide at the box office. A sequel is already in development.

n Curry Barker: The 26-year-old Barker, who grew up in Mobile, Alabama, attended film school in Los Angeles for a year before he began making videos for a YouTube sketch series and eventually the horror short The Chair and a found-footage horror film made for $800, Milk & Serial. After Tea Shop Productions saw The Chair, the company financed Barker’s $750,000 production of Obsession. After a premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, Focus Features acquired it for $15 million. It’s expected to soon pass $300 million worldwide in ticket sales. Barker has already made his next film, Anything But Ghosts,

Blumhouse Productions, and A24 has enlisted him for a reboot of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

n Markiplier: The 36-year-old Markiplier, or Mark Fischbach, became popular on YouTube for his playthrough videos of indie video games. With more than 38 million subscribers, he created series and podcasts before making his directorial debut earlier this year with Iron Lung. He also wrote and edited the sci-fi horror film based on a 2022 video game. Made for less than $5 million and self-distributed, Iron Lung grossed more than $50 million.

n Jordan Firstman: The 34-year-old Firstman, who grew up in New Jersey, first broke through with a series of short skits on Instagram Live posted during the pandemic. A comedian, writer and actor, Firstman carved out a more traditional path to filmmaking. He notably co-starred in the 2025 HBO series I Love LA and was a consulting producer on the animated series Big Mouth. But in May this year, Firstman made

US MARINE CORPS FORCES

nightclub promoter who discovers he has a son, was a breakout hit at the festival. After a bidding war, A24 acquired it for $17 million.

n Dylan Clark: Clark, a north Virginia native, has been posting horror shorts on YouTube for the last eight years. Now, he’s turning the most popular of those, Portrait of God, into a feature, with Jordan Peele and Sam Raimi producing. Clark has also been tapped by Lionsgate and Blumhouse to direct a new The Blair Witch Project.

n Sam Evenson: In April, Neon announced that Evenson will direct a feature adaptation of his viral 2014 12-minute short Mora. The short, which has been watched by nearly 5 million on Evenson’s YouTube channel, Grimoire Horror, is about a struggling artist’s search for a bloody, malformed woman who appears in AI-generated images.

Roy Lee, producer of Weapons, is producing. It will mark Evenson’s directorial debut, though he has many visual effects credits, including Dune: Part Two The Last of Us AP

PACIFIC BAND CELEBRATES ‘FREEDOM 250’ WITH FREE CONCERT

THE US Embassy in the Philippines, in partnership with SM Mall of Asia, invites the public to a free musical celebration featuring the US Marine Corps Forces Pacific (MARFORPAC) Band on June 28, 5 pm, at the SM Mall of Asia Sky Amphitheater in Pasay City.

The performance is part of the United States’ Freedom 250 campaign, which commemorates the 250th anniversary of American independence and highlights the enduring friendship between the United States and the Philippines as both nations mark 80 years of diplomatic relations and 75 years of the Mutual Defense Treaty in 2026.

Joining the MARFORPAC Band onstage are the Armed Forces of the Philippines Band and performers from the World Championship of Performing Arts for an evening celebrating cultural heritage, musical excellence, and shared history.

“At its heart, Freedom 250 is more than a milestone—it is a moment to honor what America stands for and the ideals that have shaped it across generations. Through the music of the MARFORPAC Band, that story is told without words, carried by the artistry, discipline and goodwill that US military musicians have brought to stages around the world. We are proud to share that experience here, as a reflection of the

deep and enduring bond between our two nations,” said US Embassy deputy director of public engagement Chad Kinnear.

of 39 Marines, with 10 members visiting the Philippines as part of the brass ensemble. The Marines serve as both fully trained riflemen and professional musicians, bringing high-energy jazz and contemporary

They earned the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. Music is how they serve—and in every note they play, they carry the values of this Corps: honor, courage and commitment. The Marine Corps is America’s Naval Expeditionary Force in Readiness— deployed by air, land and sea to defend the United States and its allies wherever the mission demands. We recruit America’s best, forge them into Marines, and return quality citizens to the communities that raised them,” said US Marine chief warrant officer 2 Aaron Carpenter, who also serves as the band’s director. During their visit to the Philippines, the band members will also conduct music workshops for students at the Philippine High School for the Arts and the University of the East. The tour will culminate at the US Embassy’s annual Independence Day reception, held as part of the Freedom 250 campaign celebrating America’s founding principles, dynamism, innovation, and global leadership. Through performances and meaningful community engagement across the IndoPacific, US Marine Corps musicians build stronger connections through the power of music while demonstrating professionalism,

Sean Penn to direct Warner Bros. movie about a police officer at the Jan. 6 Capitol riot

NEW YORK—Sean Penn will direct a movie about a police officer who was at the January 6 Capitol riot in 2021, Warner Bros. announced Tuesday. Following his Oscar-winning performance in One Battle After Another Penn will direct the as-yet untitled film from his own script. Bradley Cooper is in talks to star, though no deal has been finalized. Representatives for Penn and Warner Bros. didn’t comment Tuesday on the movie’s

GSIS honors winners of the 21st National Art Competition

The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) proudly announced the winners of its 21st National Art Competition during the awarding ceremonies held on June 15, 2026, at the GSIS Theater.

This year’s competition carried the theme “Ang Mga Pilipinong Lingkod Bayan,” challenging artists to create positive and inspiring representations of Filipino public servants in the performance of their duties.

The competition drew 700 entries from artists nationwide under the representational category, the sole category featured this year. Of the total entries received, 622 came from Luzon, 50 from the Visayas, and 28 from Mindanao.

Delmar J. Torrano won first prize for his work Pusong Itinanghal. John Morri U. Cariño secured second prize for Tyan-gol, while Jose Ceriola placed third for Medic Kit. Through their artistry and storytelling, the winning entries captured the dedication, sacrifice, and humanity of Filipino public servants.

The seven honorable mentions are Erlinda Reynoso Araullo for Ukit ng Lipunan: Mga Haligi, Jose Paolo B. Meneses for Espantahong Basyo, Jose Cruz Mariano for Hanap Buhay, Elgene De Guzman Bautista for Marcela Marino De Agoncillo, Nino Cris Odosis for “Hudyat” Malasakit at Kalinga, Dominic B. Escobar for Communion with the Teacher, and Wilferdo T. Canete Jr. for Beyond the Call.

Three earned the juror’s choice award, namely, Mark Joseph L. Bello for Manggagawang Humubog ng Manggagawa, Fernando Matus Jr. for Gintong Parangal kay Titser Lorna sa Wagas na Pisara, and Gretel Bularin Balajadia for Puso Ng Liwanag (lumilipas Ngunit Di Kumukupas).

June 15 at the GSIS Theater.

“In celebrating our 89th anniversary, we wanted to place the spotlight not on GSIS, but on the men and women who quietly keep public service moving every day. Through this competition, our artists helped us see the Filipino public servant with fresh eyes and reminded us that the life of every lingkod bayan deserves to be seen, remembered, and honored,” GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso said.

Veloso noted that government workers often remain in the background of the national story despite their vital role in serving communities. He said the competition sought to recognize these individuals through art and encourage deeper appreciation for public service.

To ensure the integrity of the selection process, GSIS gathered a distinguished panel of jurors among which are renowned visual artist Romulo Galicano, artist and cultural advocate Imelda Cajipe Endaya, and Nemesio Miranda Jr.

The GSIS National Art Competition continues to attract both established and emerging artists from across the country. Open to all Filipino citizens aged 18 and above, the competition has become one of the country’s longest-running and most prestigious government-sponsored art competitions.

A partner of GSIS, the Art Association of the Philippines (AAP) has played a vital role in sustaining and elevating the competition over the years.

AAP President Fidel Sarmiento commended GSIS for its longstanding

positive impact within their communities.

On June 23, 2026, members of the media, partners, sponsors, and distinguished guests gathered at Rosa Bistro Manila for the official Mrs. Universe Philippines 2026 Candidates press conference. The event served as the formal introduction of this year’s remarkable candidates, each representing the values of confidence, grace, intelligence, leadership, and service that the organization proudly upholds.

The press conference also served as the official kickoff to the highly anticipated Mrs. Universe Philippines 2026 Coronation Night, which will take place on June 28, 2026 at the prestigious Manila Hotel. As the candidates prepare for the culmination of their journey, the media had the opportunity to meet the women who will compete for the coveted national title and represent the Philippines on the international stage.

For seven years, Mrs. Universe Philippines has evolved beyond the traditional concept of pageantry. It has become a platform where women are recognized not only for their beauty, but more importantly for their achievements, advocacies, professional accomplishments, and dedication to their families and communities. Through its programs and initiatives, the organization continues to provide opportunities for women to become ambassadors of positive change while proudly representing the resilience, strength, and values of the Filipina on the global stage.

At the heart of this success is Maria Charo Laude, Founder and National Director of Mrs. Universe Philippines.

A respected figure in the pageant industry, Laude was crowned Mrs. Universe Philippines 2019 to 2020, a distinction that further fueled her passion for empowering

support of Filipino artists and for elevating the National Art Competition into one of the country’s most prestigious art events.

“Ang GSIS ang siyang nanguna sa pagbibigay ng mas mataas na pagpapahalaga sa mga artist sa pamamagitan ng awarding ceremony na memorable para sa mga nananalo. Maraming salamat sa GSIS sa patuloy nitong pagsuporta sa sining at sa mga Filipino artist [The GSIS has been at the forefront of giving greater recognition to artists through an awarding ceremony that is memorable for the winners. Many thanks to the GSIS for its continued support of the arts and Filipino artists],” Sarmiento said.

The winning artworks will become part of the GSIS permanent art collection and will be featured in the institution’s 90th anniversary calendar.

Following the awarding ceremony, GSIS formally opened the 21st National Art Competition Exhibit, allowing guests to view the winning entries, finalists, and selected artworks. The exhibit is housed at the recently rehabilitated GSIS Museo ng Sining, which continues to serve as a venue for promoting Filipino creativity and preserving the country’s rich artistic heritage.

“Art allows us to tell the stories of our people in ways that statistics and reports cannot. By preserving these works in the GSIS Museo ng Sining, we ensure that future generations will continue to appreciate the contributions of Filipino public servants and the artists who bring their stories to life,” Veloso ended.

women through leadership, mentorship, and advocacy.

Under her visionary leadership, Mrs. Universe Philippines has grown into one of the country’s most respected organizations dedicated to married women. Her commitment to excellence has enabled the organization to establish a strong national presence while continuously creating opportunities that celebrate achievement, personal growth, and social responsibility.

A significant milestone in the organization’s journey has been its successful hosting of the Mrs. Universe International Pageant for two consecutive years. This achievement not only reflects the capability and dedication of the organization but also strengthens the Philippines’ reputation as a premier destination for international pageantry and cultural exchange. Through these efforts, Mrs. Universe Philippines continues to foster meaningful connections among women from different countries while promoting empowerment on a global scale.

The press conference also formally presented the candidates of Mrs. Universe Philippines 2026, a distinguished group of women representing diverse backgrounds, professions, and advocacies. Their stories embody perseverance, determination, leadership, and purpose—qualities that define the modern Filipina and the ideals that Mrs. Universe Philippines continues to champion.

Members of the media had the opportunity to learn about their personal journeys, and gain insight into the advocacies they hope to promote throughout their participation in Mrs. Universe Philippines 2026. The event likewise featured the Talent Portion of all candidates.

This tiny electric SUV from VinFast keeps finding new jobs

helping reduce fuel consumption and vehicle operating costs. For a local government looking to modernize its fleet, the move reflects a growing interest in electric mobility that extends well beyond private vehicle ownership. In Indonesia, the VinFast VF 3 has taken on an even more specialized role.

Indonesia’s National Traffic Police Corps recently unveiled its Precision Drone Patrol ETLE program, a technology-driven initiative that uses drones to monitor traffic conditions and identify violations. To support the program, officers selected a modified VF 3 as a mobile transport vehicle for drone equipment.

The vehicle was extensively adapted for the task. The rear section was redesigned to accommodate equipment storage, allowing officers to transport and deploy traffic-monitoring drones from different locations. Its compact dimensions were seen as a major advantage, enabling officers to maneuver easily through congested urban areas and operate from spaces where larger vehicles might struggle. While the Philippine and Indonesian deployments serve different purposes, they point to the same conclusion: the VF 3 is proving to be a flexible vehicle.

Gunita: Memory, identity, Filipino arts at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria

GUNITA is more than memory; it is a living repository of stories, identities, and cultural expressions that continue to shape who we are. Derived from the Filipino word for remembrance, gunita serves as a sanctuary where personal histories and collective experiences are transformed into visual narratives, preserving the enduring spirit of Filipino creativity across generations and geographies.

Presented by Arte Bauan in partnership with Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, and Holiday Inn & Suites Manila Galleria, this exhibition reflects the belief that art is not only meant to be seen, but also to be experienced and to empower. Featuring the works of seven distinguished Filipino artists, Gunita invites audiences on a journey of remembrance, reflection, and cultural discovery—where memory becomes a bridge connecting local roots with global perspectives.

The exhibition will run from June to August 31, 2026, and will be open for public viewing and sale, in celebration of Philippine Independence Day.

Each artwork becomes a vessel of recollection, carrying fragments of personal histories, cultural traditions, and shared experiences that define Filipino identity. Through colors, textures, symbols, and forms, the artists revisit the landscapes of their origins: the simplicity of everyday life, the richness of local customs, the strength of faith, the spirit of community, and the enduring resilience of the Filipino people. In doing so, they transform memory into living art, making visible the stories that continue to shape our collective consciousness.

The exhibition extends beyond local borders through the Viaje Program of KUNST Filipino, where Ada Panopio, Jerwind Magnaye, Windsor Magnaye, Ruby Bagsit, Doy Kastilyo, and Yelcast brought Filipino narratives to audiences in Italy, Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium, and France. Yelcast represented the Philippines at the Florence Biennale and further engaged audiences in Morocco and South Africa, while Windsor Magnaye earned distinction in a juried exhibition in Paris. Their collective exploration of Filipinism: What Makes Art Filipino – Making Visible Things Visible demonstrates how identity shaped by memory, heritage, and lived experience resonates across cultures and continents.

Beyond exhibition halls, their artistic journeys have entered academic and cultural discourse.

Through lectures at the International University

If you ask any self-professed foodie what their absolute favorite comfort foods are, Tex-Mex

of Rabat in Morocco and the University of Pretoria in South Africa, the artists shared insights into how memory, identity, and heritage inform contemporary artistic practice. These engagements affirm that art is not merely an object of appreciation, but a catalyst for education, cultural exchange, and meaningful dialogue.

In the spirit of Robinsons Land ARTablado, Gunita celebrates art that is seen, art that is experienced, and art that empowers. It reflects a commitment to creating platforms where Filipino artists can thrive, where communities can engage with culture in meaningful ways, and where everyday spaces become places of inspiration and connection. By championing artists whose works have earned recognition on the international stage, the exhibition demonstrates the richness and relevance of Filipino creativity while fostering pride in our cultural identity.

More than an exhibition, Gunita is a testament to the power of art to transcend borders and bring people together. It showcases how Filipino artists continue to shape global conversations through their unique perspectives, proving that local narratives can resonate universally. Through their achievements and artistic journeys, these artists empower future generations to embrace their heritage, pursue creative excellence, and share their stories with the world. Ultimately, Gunita reminds us that memories endure when they are shared. Every brushstroke becomes an act of remembrance; every composition, a dialogue between past and present. Through the convergence of local roots and international recognition, the exhibition affirms that Filipino art is both deeply personal and universally human. In making visible the stories that define us, Gunita ensures that memory lives on—not only as something remembered, but as something experienced, celebrated, and empowered for generations to come.

Zooming out even further, we can see how this aligns with a broader trend taking shape around the world. Police agencies and government fleets are increasingly exploring electric vehicles as they look to reduce operating costs, lower emissions, and modernize their transportation networks. Compared with traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, EVs typically require less maintenance, produce no tailpipe emissions, offer lower day-today energy costs, and come packed with digital features. EVs are not called “computers on wheels” for no reason.

The VF 3 also possesses several qualities that make it particularly well-suited to public service applications. Its compact footprint is perhaps the most obvious advantage. Measuring just 3,190 mm long, 1,679 mm wide, and 1,652 mm high, the VF 3 is noticeably smaller than most passenger vehicles on the roads today. That makes it ideal for navigating crowded city streets, squeezing through narrow roads, maneuvering through busy public markets, and parking in tight spaces. Yet despite its compact size, the VF 3 sits on 16-inch wheels and offers 175 mm of ground clearance, giving it the kind of SUV-like stance that helps when roads become less than perfect.

with the juicy meat underneath. But the real head-scratcher is, why do they rarely share the same plate, when they can be doing a joint slay instead? This question of profound significance is what compelled Taco Bell to get in its bag and cook up a new collection of bangers that Tex-Mex and crispy chicken foodies will surely eat up!

It’s time to elevate your crispy chicken cravings with six new creations that offer the signature Taco Bell experience through mouthwatering flavors and a satisfying crunch! Experience your Tex-Mex favorites like never before with the new Crispy Chicken collection, available for a limited time only. Bite into the new Crispy Chicken Burrito (P219), made with crispy chicken, cheese sauce, spicy ranch, shredded iceberg, and cheddar cheese all wrapped in a warm 10.5-inch flour tortilla, or feel the shattering

The VF 3 can drive a range of up to 215 kilometers on a full charge, enough for several days of typical urban driving for many owners. When it is time to recharge, the battery can go from 10% to 70% in around 36 minutes using DC fast charging. For police patrol duties, municipal fleets, and everyday drivers alike, that means less time plugged in and more time on the road.

These latest deployments represent another milestone for a model that has already become one of VinFast’s

crunch of the new Crispy Chicken Crunchwrap (P259), made with a warm 12-inch flour tortilla packed with crispy chicken, cheese sauce, red chili sauce, and shredded iceberg lettuce.

Or, fill yourself up with the new Crispy Chicken Naked Burrito (P259), a hearty fare made with Mexican rice, crispy chicken, shredded iceberg lettuce, diced tomato, and garlic sauce, then get extra cheesy with the new Chick N’ Fries (P199), which comes with crispy chicken strips and nacho fries served with a cheese dip on the side.

Finally, if you’re in the mood for some tacos, you’ll

The winners, juror’s choice awardees, and honorable mention recipients of the 21st GSIS National Art Competition with the GSIS Board of Trustees led by President and General Manager Wick Veloso, GSIS executives, and members of the distinguished panel of jurors during the awarding ceremonies held on

Motoring

Story & photos by

Randy S. Peregrino

ELECTRIFICATION took another step forward as Great Wall Motor (GWM) has now added another contender to the mix. Recently launched, the Haval H7 arrived as a subcompact SUV boasting rugged practicality and tech-forward features. Previewed earlier at MIAS 2026, the model now takes center stage as part of GWM’s expanding electrified lineup. Offered in three electrified variants— HEV 2WD, PHEV 2WD, and Hi4 PHEV 4WD—the H7 is positioned to appeal to Filipino motorists seeking capability, technology, and eco-conscious motoring in one package.

COMMANDING PRESENCE, PRACTICAL DETAILING

DIMENSION-WISE, the Haval H7 measures 4,800 mm long, 1,950 mm wide, and 1,843 mm tall, supported by a 2,738 mm wheelbase. Its upright, boxy profile is defined by squared wheel arches and strong shoulder lines, while the imposing front fascia is anchored by a wide grille design and flanked by LED headlamps with daytime running lights. At the rear, the clean tailgate design is punctuated by slim LED taillamps, a roof spoiler with integrated brake light, and a shark‑fin antenna. Wheel and tire specifications are distinct per variant. The HEV 2WD rides on 18-inch alloys paired with 235/65 R18 tires, tuned for comfort and efficiency. The PHEV 2WD and Hi4 PHEV 4WD step up to 19-inch alloys matched with 235/60 R19 tires, providing a firmer footprint and improved stability. A full-size spare tire is standard across all trims, a practical inclusion rarely seen in today’s SUV

segment.

Functional exterior equipment includes roof rails, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic headlamp leveling, complemented by power-folding side mirrors with integrated turn signals.

Color choices are straightforward: Gray as listed on the official site, alongside Iceberg White, Midnight Black, and Stealth Grey.

MODERN CABIN, STRAIGHTFORWARD CONNECTIVITY

INSIDED, the Haval H7 follows a straightforward yet tech-forward approach that prioritizes space, usability, and modern connectivity. The cabin is configured for five occupants, with dimensions supported by its 2,738 mm wheelbase translating into generous legroom and headroom. The dashboard layout is clean, anchored by a 15.6-inch central touchscreen that handles infotainment, navigation, and vehicle functions. Complementing this is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that provides crisp readouts of speed, power distribution, and hybrid system status.

Materials are a mix of soft‑touch surfaces and durable trims, with seating upholstered in leather for higher variants. The driver benefits from a head‑up display, while convenience features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and steering wheel-mounted controls. A 50W wireless charging pad is integrated into the center console, alongside multiple USB ports for both front and rear passengers.

Comfort is reinforced by a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and rear AC vents. Storage solutions include a cooled compartment within the center console, flexible cargo

YOU have five days from today, June 26, 2026, to avail of huge discounts when you buy a Toyota.

From Luigi Bautista of Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), here’s the list of models offering whopping benefits: Avanza P50,000 or 50k, Veloz 30k, Fortuner 30k, Ativ 30k, Tamaraw dropside 40k, Raize 40k and Wigo 40k. Aside from the cash discounts, Luigi said that TMP is also extending a five year warranty for all models, a trade-in fee of 30k, free period maintenance and free insurance.

Promo ends on June 30, 2026.

So, what are you waitibg for, fellas?

Go to www.toyota.com.ph/promos/DriveEasyDrive Toyota for more details.

nnn AND NOW, HERE IS CHINO SUBIDO FROM UAAGI JETOUR GAIA, the premium, high-luxury, electrified, off road sub brand of Jetour, officially embarks on a campaign to highlight the brand’s flagship luxury SUV, the Jetour G700.

“Visually, the Jetour G700 stands large in stature, offering an exceptionally commanding drive. The vehicle asserts its presence with imposing dimensions: 5,198 mm in length, 2,050 mm in width, and 1,956 mm in height, built upon an expansive 2,870 mm wheelbase.

“Engineered to rise above challenging terrain, it features up to 300 mm of ground clearance and a maximum 900 mm water wading depth. An adjustable, adaptive air suspension system allows

space, and split-folding rear seats. Audio is delivered through an eight-speaker system, tuned for balanced output rather than excess.

HYBRID SYSTEMS, PLUG-IN

OR NOT

OFFERED in three electrified configurations, each built around a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with electric drive systems. The HEV 2WD combines a single motor with the engine, producing 241 hp and 540 N m of torque, supported by a compact 1.53 kWh battery that also recharges via regenerative braking. This setup is tuned for efficiency in everyday use, with smooth transitions between electric and combustion power.

The PHEV 2WD raises output to 359 hp and 540 N-m, thanks to a larger 19.09 kWh battery that enables up to 95 km of pure electric driving range. DC fast charging capability shortens downtime, making it practical for urban commutes with reduced fuel reliance.

At the top of the range, the Hi4 PHEV 4WD adds a second motor to deliver 359 hp and 760 N-m, distributed through GWM’s DHT3 transmission with all-wheel drive. This variant balances

this, dynamically altering ride height and dampening characteristics to guarantee a plush ride over tarmac and effortless traversal through deep water.

“A front, vertically mounted 2.0T turbocharged petrol engine drives performance, working hand in hand with dual permanent magnet synchronous motors that deliver 210 kW to the front axle and 300 kW to the rear.

“Together, this plug-in hybrid architecture unleashes a staggering 904 Ps of power and 1,135 Nm of torque, rocketing the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 4.6 seconds. Equipped with a 100 liter fuel tank and a 34.13 kWh battery, it delivers an impressive combined range of up to 1,000 kilometers, masterfully balancing high performance with quiet, refined operation.

“Inside, the G700 transforms every journey into an indulgent, lifestyle-oriented experience.

performance and traction, particularly useful in mixed terrain. The same 19.09 kWh battery provides up to 95 km EV range, while the combined driving range extends close to 1,000 km.

COMPREHENSIVE AND INTELLIGENT PROTECTION

THE safety package is comprehensive, combining conventional protection with advanced driver assistance systems. Standard equipment includes six airbags—front, side, and curtain— alongside Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). These systems form the foundation of occupant protection and vehicle stability.

Driver assistance is anchored by a suite of ADAS technologies, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keeping Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross‑Traffic Alert. Also integrated is the 540-degree panoramic imaging, combining multiple camera views, including an under-chassis view, for precise maneuvering. Moreover, there is Hill Descent Control, Hill Hold

“To maintain an optimal atmosphere, the cabin utilizes an automatic climate control system with independent rear A/C. For enhanced air quality, the ventilation system features a medical-grade CN95 PM2.5 filtration setup alongside an integrated cabin fragrance system to ensure a clean, refined environment.

“Furthermore, an elite, 18-speaker Lexicon by Harman setup tailors the acoustic performance, delivering a true surround-sound experience with rich, balanced audio for all media and calls.

“The G700’s digital layout centers around an ultra-wide 35.4-inch instrument display, a responsive 15.6-inch central touchscreen, and a 17.3-inch entertainment screen for rear passengers. Powered by a high-tier Snapdragon 8255 processor, the infotainment system seamlessly supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and voice commands.

“This intelligent control system matches topnotch safety features, including a comprehensive 23-point Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), comprehensive airbag protection (front, side, and curtain), and a 360-degree surround-view camera.

“Crucial to the long-term ownership experience, the robust aftersales support of Jetour GAIA operates under the expansive wing of the UAAGI Auto Group and its 20 years of expertise in the local automotive market.

“Jetour GAIA benefits directly from the UAAGI Auto Group’s extensive nationwide network, meaning

Assist, Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

CLEAR VALUE,

LONG-TERM COVERAGE

OFFERED in three electrified variants, the HEV 2WD retails at P1,298,888, while the PHEV 2WD is listed at P1,548,888. At the top of the range, the Hi4 PHEV 4WD is priced at P1,698,888. For early adopters, GWM has extended introductory discounts valid until June 30, 2026, reducing the price of each variant by P50,000. This places the HEV 2WD at P1,248,888, the PHEV 2WD at P1,498,888, and the Hi4 PHEV 4WD at P1,648,888 during the launch period.

Ownership is supported by a comprehensive warranty package tailored for Filipino buyers. Coverage includes a seven-year or 200,000-kilometer bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 10-year or 1,000,000-kilometer powertrain warranty, and an eight-year or 200,000-kilometer battery warranty. These provisions extend confidence in both conventional and electrified systems, ensuring long-term support for critical components.

customers from all corners of the Philippines receive high quality, professional aftersales services for their G700 unit, ensuring factory certified technicians and genuine spare parts remain always accessible.

“Jetour GAIA offers a 6 year or 250,000 kilometer General Warranty, alongside an outstanding 8-year or 160,000-kilometer High Voltage Battery Warranty, whichever comes first. Add both to an Engine Warranty of 10 years or 1,000,000 kilometers and this comprehensive coverage gives drivers ultimate peace of mind as they make the modern switch to a highperformance, plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.

“To showcase this new standard of luxury, the brand celebrates the official opening of the Jetour GAIA Space in North EDSA, Quezon City [located across TriNoma and Solaire North]. This modern facility precedes upcoming GAIA Space openings in prominent business and lifestyle hubs, including Bonifacio Global City [BGC]

B8 Friday, June 26, 2026

Olympic athletes to get cash grants from IOC’s $100M fund

By Graham Dunbar The Associated Press

AUSANNE, Switzerland—

LIt’s not Olympic prize money officially, but it is a significant amount of cash going directly to athletes after

calls were strongly resisted in recent years to pay prize money at the Olympics, and signaled another policy shift under its president Kirsty Coventry.

I OC member and former National Basketball Association star Pau Gasol announced the project that will first be open to nearly 2,900 athletes who competed at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games.

A round 11,000 athletes due to compete in 2028 at LA also can apply for grants totaling about $110 million after those Olympics, if they meet integrity criteria such as not testing positive for doping.

This is a win for all of us,” said Gasol, who represents athletes on the 15-member IOC executive board, adding that it was “not prize money.”

The money allocated by the IOC is not dependent on an athlete continuing their career.

Coventry’s Olympic strategy

THE cash promise was the signature issue of an IOC meeting setting a future

strategy under its president Kirsty Coventry exactly one year after she formally took office.

Gasol said the IOC had heard a consistent message during its strategy review: “Athletes want more direct support throughout their Olympic journey and beyond.”

The 42-year-old Coventry is a five-time Olympian and two-time swimming gold medalist for Zimbabwe. She was elected as the youngest president, and most recent former athlete, in the IOC’s modern history.

Historic moment for Olympics

PAYING prize money to Olympic medalists was a central policy for one of Kirsty Coventry’s election opponents, World Athletics leader Sebastian Coe, who oversaw rewarding track and field champions at the 2024 Paris Olympics with $50,000.

This is a historic moment for the movement and I’m absolutely delighted to be in the room when this has been announced,” Coe told his fellow IOC members, praising Coventry’s policy. I n Los Angeles, World Athletics is adding to its prize fund to pay silver and bronze medalists as well.

Coventry restated two weeks ago her long-held belief that the IOC should not use its Olympic revenues to pay prize money to an elite tier of medalists.

That question to Coventry at an IOC news conference followed a fierce reaction by some athletes to her comments while on Olympic business in New

Zealand last month that prize money would not be paid.

“ The backlash was a little frustrating,” Coventry acknowledged Wednesday at a news conference, because the policy plan had still been confidential. “It is not something that just happened over the last few weeks.”

The IOC already funds a program called “Olympic Solidarity” that directs grants worth thousands of dollars to athletes from less-wealthy countries preparing to qualify for and compete at a Summer or Winter Games.

The Solidarity budget, which also funds team costs, coaches and officials, is worth $650 million for the four-year Olympic cycle that includes Milan Cortina and Los Angeles.

How the system should work PAO GASOL, a three-time Olympic medalist for Spain, said applying for the grants will be at an IOC online platform that helps athletes during and after their careers.

A pproved money should be sent to national Olympic committees (NOCs) which oversee teams and competitors. Those NOCs will have to show the money transfers were made directly to athletes, Gasol suggested S everal dozens of Olympic athletes—in men’s basketball, soccer and ice hockey, for example— are already wealthy from their careers but they will still be eligible, Gasol told reporters.

“ They will decide if they want to apply,” the former LA Lakers standout said. “We want to engage them.”

Year One: Fit for the Future

THE Year One review of Coventry’s presidency has been branded “Fit for the Future” to reshape Olympic strategy after 12 years of Thomas Bach’s leadership.

I OC members also signed off Wednesday on new processes for choosing Olympic hosts plus adding or removing sports and events from games programs.

V illegas is bound for Baguio City to resume preparations with the national team before a scheduled training camp in Thailand from August 25 to September 8 and Japan from September 9. Josef Ramos

RISING grappler Sophia Nicole Novino  reached  the Youth women’s -47-kilogram division final while three others bagged a bronze medal  each for an encouraging start for the hosts  in the 11th Asia-Oceania Sambo Championships presented  by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium Thursday. I n just her first year in the Russian martial art, Novino took out her  Vietnamese