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JOBLESS RATE HITS 5.8%, HIGHEST SINCE JUNE ’22 5.8% T By Justine Xyrah Garcia
HE Philippines may be inching toward a period of “jobless growth” as weakening job creation coincides with external shocks spilling into the domestic economy. On Friday, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that 2.96 million Filipinos were unemployed, translating to an unemployment rate of 5.8 percent. This was 790,000 higher compared with the 2.17 million unemployed in the same period last year, and up by 413,000 from 2.54 million in October 2025. The January 2026 rate was also the highest since June 2022, when unemployment reached 6.03 percent. Former Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Dante B. Canlas said whether the country enters a jobless growth phase will depend
“We've actually had job-poor and jobdegrading growth for decades—which is why poverty incidence has stayed high despite reportedly high growth.” — Jose Enrique A. Africa, executive director of IBON Foundation, warning that the Philippines risks slipping into jobless or even job-losing growth if employment cuts continue.
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
Equivalent to 2.96 million Filipinos without jobs in January 2026, the highest since June 2022, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. The figure is 790,000 higher than a year earlier, raising concerns that economic growth may not be generating enough employment.
largely on how global risks—particularly the Middle East crisis and oil price shocks—play out and feed into domestic growth. Jobless growth, as defined by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), is “economic growth without expanding employment opportunities or without reduction in joblessness.” “It depends on whether the oil price shocks persist and will
usher in a recession, which means no growth. The oil price shocks just started and we can’t say yet if they imply neither real [gross domestic product] growth nor job growth in 2026,” Canlas told the BusinessMirror. Still, he noted early signs that job creation is losing momentum. According to Deputy National Statistician Divina Grace L. Del Prado, the rise in unemployment was largely driven by more individuals actively seeking work but unable to find jobs. PSA data showed that 306,000 more individuals year-on-year were looking for work but could not find employment. Quarter-on-quarter, the number of jobseekers without work increased by 242,000. Another 91,000 individuals were classified as discouraged workers—those who had stopped looking for jobs because they believed none were available. Canlas said the trend is consistent with the economy’s slower growth at the end of 2025, when
PHL INCLUSION IN U.S. FORCED LABOR PROBE ‘DEFENSIBLE’—TRADE OFFICIAL By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
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HE Philippines’ inclusion in a labor-related investigation by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is “defensible,” a Philippine trade official said, expressing confidence that Manila can explain its labor practices once consultations begin. Trade Undersecretary and Board of Investments managing head Ceferino Rodolfo on Friday said the government is prepared to engage the US following the investigation launched under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974. The probe will examine whether the acts, policies, or practices of these economies, particularly those related to the failure to impose or effectively enforce bans on the importation of goods produced with forced labor, are unreasonable or discriminatory and whether they burden or restrict US commerce. “I’m very confident that if we’re given the opportunity
See “Jobless,” A2
Asean ministers call for immediate halt to hostilities after emergency meeting
“I’m very confident that if we’re given the opportunity to provide more information and greater interaction and engagement with the US side, we will be able to fully explain why we should not be part of the investigations under Section 301 on labor practices.” — Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo
to provide more information and greater interaction and engagement with the US side, we will be able to fully explain why we should not be part of the investigations under Section 301 on labor practices,” Rodolfo told reporters on the sidelines of a forum hosted by the Stratbase Institute in Makati City. See “USTR,” A2
Asean pushes back vs protectionism at WTO
THE headquarters of the World Trade Organization in Geneva, Switzerland. Economic ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations reaffirmed support for an open, rules-based global trading system, urging the WTO to resist protectionist policies and safeguard predictable global commerce amid rising geopolitical tensions. OLRAT | DREAMSTIME.COM
2.4
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
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By Malou TalosigBartolome
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SEAN must bolster coordination and informationsharing among foreign ministries as their embassies and consulates work to evacuate nationals trapped by escalating missile strikes involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. This priority was highlighted during a virtual emergency meeting of Asean Foreign Ministers and senior officials on Friday. The session was chaired by Philippine Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, representing the current Asean chair. “On the protection of Asean nationals, which is very important to the Philippines, we underscored the importance of timely and enhanced coordination and information sharing,” Lazaro said in a
press conference after the meeting. Ministers also agreed to “strengthen cooperation and work more closely to respond more rapidly to the challenges impacting our region,” specifically addressing the energy crisis that a prolonged conflict could trigger.
Joint Asean assistance to nationals
THE practical application of this cooperation was evident on Friday when Singapore accommodated 24 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from Jeddah on a chartered military flight originally intended for 81 Singaporean nationals. After arriving in Singapore, the OFWs were escorted to Manila by Philippine Embassy welfare staff. Secretary Lazaro noted that nationals from several other Asean countries were also permitted
to board the Singapore Air Force A330 aircraft. She cited existing Asean frameworks that facilitate joint consular operations during emergencies. These include the Asean Declaration on the Guidelines on Consular Assistance and the Guidelines for the Provision of Emergency Assistance by Asean Missions in Third Countries to Nationals in Crisis Situations. Currently, there are approximately 2.4 million Filipinos in the Middle East. Many reside in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait—areas that have recently been targeted by Iranian missiles. Thousands of workers and tourists have requested repatriation once international airports reopen and commercial flights resume. See “Asean,” A2
MILLION
Approximate number of Filipinos currently residing in the Middle East, mainly in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Kuwait, regions recently targeted by Iranian missile strikes. Many are workers or tourists requesting repatriation once flights resume.
VINCENT GIORDANO | DREAMSTIME.COM
FOREIGN ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations hold an emergency virtual meeting chaired by Philippine Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro to coordinate assistance for Asean nationals affected by escalating tensions in the Middle East and discuss potential energy disruptions. SCREENGRAB VIA PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE
CONOMIC ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) reiterated their call for an open and rules-based global trading system, calling the World Trade Organization (WTO) to avoid protectionist policies and unwarranted trade restrictions that could disrupt global commerce. In a joint statement released on Friday, the Asean leaders underscored the need to preserve a multilateral trading system that is rules-based, non-discriminatory, transparent and predictable, with the WTO remaining at its center. “We supported constructive engagement towards balanced outcomes at the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14), including the necessary reform of the WTO to improve all its functions,” the ministers said. The WTO, often described as the world’s trade watchdog, has faced challenges in curbing pro-
tectionist measures as global trade tensions intensify. Even last year, several countries filed complaints arguing that tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump violated global trade rules. Alongside their call for open trade, Asean economic ministers also highlighted several regional initiatives aimed at strengthening economic integration within Southeast Asia. These include the Second Protocol to amend the Asean Trade in Goods Agreement, the proposed Asean Digital Economy Framework Agreement and the Asean Economic Community Strategic Plan 2026-2030.
De-escalation of Mideast tension
THE ministers also joined the region’s foreign ministers in calling for the de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East through diplomatic and peaceful means, including the cessation of hostilities and the exercise of restraint by all parties involved. See “WTO,” A2
PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 59.5310 n JAPAN 0.3736 n UK 79.4739 n HK 7.6062 n CHINA 8.6486 n SINGAPORE 46.5704 n AUSTRALIA 42.1063 n EU 68.5440 n KOREA 0.0400 n SAUDI ARABIA 15.8652 Source: BSP (March 13, 2026)
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A2 Saturday, March 14, 2026
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JOBLESS RATE HITS 5.8%, ‘Operational challenges’ HIGHEST SINCE JUNE ’22 in importing oil ‘tolerable’
GDP expanded by just 3 percent in the fourth quarter, bringing fullyear growth to 4.4 percent. PIDS Senior Research Fellow John Paolo R. Rivera echoed the assessment. “The increase in people actively seeking work may also signal slower job absorption by the economy, consistent with the broader growth slowdown observed in recent quarters,” Rivera told the BusinessMirror. For IBON Foundation Executive Director Jose Enrique A. Africa, the risk of jobless growth is not entirely new, noting that the economy has long struggled to generate enough quality jobs. “We’ve actually had job-poor and job-degrading growth for decades—which is why poverty incidence has stayed high despite reportedly high growth. If employment cuts continue this year, we might be entering into a worse situation of job-losing growth,” Africa told the BusinessMirror. Africa said the government must recognize that job creation is weakening. He noted that only 172,000 jobs were created last year, “barely one-fourth the historical average of around 700,000 annually over the past five decades and was among the weakest outcomes in the last 25 years.”
employment cannot be explained solely by the end of holiday hiring. He explained that the pattern points to deeper labor market problems, with volatile farm work, weak industrial hiring, and more workers ending up in low-productivity service jobs. “The size of job losses and concentration of employment in low-productivity services points to structural labor market stress rather than a purely temporary fluctuation,” he said. PSA data showed that of the 47.94 million employed Filipinos in January, about 30.50 million— or 63.6 percent—worked in the services sector. This was higher than the 61.6 percent recorded in January last year and the 60.6 percent share in October 2025. Beyond sector shifts, data also suggest increasing job insecurity. PSA reported that an additional 1.09 million workers were in shortterm or contractual arrangements in January, while nearly 2 million workers in permanent positions were lost. According to Rivera, this may indicate that firms are adjusting their hiring strategies amid economic uncertainty. “While this helps sustain employment levels, it also indicates fragility in job quality, as workers face less stable income and fewer benefits,” he added.
Not holiday hiring reversal
Oil shocks
Continued from A1
AFRICA also said the uptick in un-
RIVERA said rising oil prices could
also weigh on employment if they persist, with transport, manufacturing, tourism and agriculture likely to feel the pressure first. “While the immediate impact on employment may be limited, prolonged geopolitical tensions and sustained cost pressures could slow hiring and investment in the coming months,” he said. Canlas agreed, warning that if there is no cease-fire, “real GDP will further decline and usher in a recession.” “Labor force participation and employment will follow the downswing in the business cycle while the unemployment rate will further increase,” Canlas added. In a statement, Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said the government is preparing safety nets for migrant and local workers who may be affected by the oil crisis. “Our priority is clear: create more and better jobs at home, strengthen industries, equip our workers with the skills needed for higher-value employment, and ensure that those affected by global disruptions, including OFWs, can transition smoothly into productive opportunities here in the Philippines,” Balisacan said. Among the interventions are targeted fuel subsidies, along with expanded emergency employment and livelihood programs.
O
By Samuel P. Medenilla
IL firms said “operational challenges” in importing petroleum products in the country remains tolerable for now amid the ongoing Middle East crisis, according to Malacañang. However, Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto noted these companies are also preparing contingency plans in case the turmoil in the region further restricts their traditional oil supply chains. “The alternatives are already being explored, per the President’s instructions,” he said in a statement he released on Friday. “Thankfully the companies gave the assurance that whatever operational challenges in bringing the products here are manageable,” he added. Last Thursday, Recto together
with Energy Secretary Sharon Garin met with oil firms in Malacañang amid reports some gas stations were engaged in overpricing after the United States and Israel attacked Iran resulting in a surge in global oil prices. The Department of Energy has issued show-cause orders against 55 gas stations, which have allegedly engaged in the illegal act. “The meeting focused on supply and prices, on how to keep both stable, amidst the volatility we are seeing,” Recto said. “This is pursuant to the direc-
WTO…
tions by the Office of the United States Trade Representative, Asean committed to engage proactively to ensure that the process remains consistent with international trade rules. Among SEA economies, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam are covered by both the manufacturing and labor investigations, while the Philippines is included only in the labor-related probe. On Friday, Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said that the investigation does not accuse the Philippines of harboring forced labor, but instead examines whether the country has effectively prevented imports produced through forced labor. He added that the Philippines would be able to explain its position if given the opportunity to engage with US authorities. In light of these developments, Asean economic ministers said stronger coordination among regional bodies will be necessary to sustain economic growth and stability. These include sectoral groups responsible for trade, finance, insurance, energy, agriculture, transport and the digital economy, as well as cross-pillar cooperation with the Asean Political-Security Community and the Asean SocioCultural Community. “We reaffirm Asean’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding regional economic stability and fostering sustainable and inclusive growth amidst a rapidly evolving geoeconomic and geopolitical environment,” the ministers said.
Continued from A1
Continued instability in the region, they warned, could disrupt global trade routes and raise costs for freight, insurance and logistics—pressures that could eventually feed into higher prices for energy, food and other essential goods, including in economies such as the Philippines. “A prolonged period of geopolitical instability could pose sustained challenges to the global economic outlook, which has already been battered by multiple headwinds in recent years,” they said. Asean officials also emphasized that long-term economic stability and investor confidence depend on adherence to international law and the swift resolution of humanitarian crises. In addition, managing energy demand and strengthening regional energy security would remain a priority, including efforts to diversify energy sources and supply routes. These include promoting biofuels and renewable energy, strengthening cooperation on energy preparedness and reserves, and accelerating the transition to alternative energy sources. The region already has several cooperation mechanisms in place, including the Asean Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security, the Asean Power Grid Enhanced Memorandum of Understanding and the Trans-Asean Gas Pipeline. Regarding the recently launched Section 301 investiga-
Asean… Continued from A1
Ministers also explored the possibility of collaborating with “external parties.”
Concerns over oil and energy security
BEYOND the immediate safety of stranded citizens, Asean ministers called for an immediate ceasefire, urging all parties to exercise “utmost self-restraint.” They emphasized the need to resolve differences through diplomacy and dialogue while respecting international law and the United Nations Charter. “The Ministers expressed serious concern over the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East ... [posing] a grave threat to the lives and safety of civilians, as well as to regional and global peace and stability,” Lazaro said, specifically citing the adverse effects on energy markets and mar-
itime transport routes. Lazaro confirmed that Asean energy ministers have already established mechanisms to mitigate price shocks and supply disruptions. These include: • The Asean Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security • The Asean Power Grid • The Trans-Asean Gas Pipeline Asean is activating cooperation with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) at both multilateral and bilateral levels, Asean Plus Three that includes China, Japan and South Korea, as well as industry partners. Lazaro stressed that foreign and economic ministers need to improve on their “cross-pillar coordination” to promote a “more synergized and timely response to crises.” As an alternative to fossil fuels, Asean ministers also expressed the need to increase the use of renewable energy.
tive of the President to protect our people from the impact of surging oil prices,” he added. Garin directed oil companies to ensure that gas stations properly adjust prices ,and in a manner that reflects real market conditions. She warned them that gas stations, which implement “premature, excessive, or unreasonable increases in fuel prices” will face sanctions. Recto said he hopes the private sector will help government keep the price stable amid the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. To further mitigate the economic impact of the crisis, Recto said the President is also eagerly awaiting passage of the bill granting him special powers to lower or suspend fuel excise tax. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday certified as urgent the bill in order to fast-track its passage. “The President wants the bill on his desk immediately so he can sign it,” Recto said.
USTR… Continued from A1
Aside from the Philippines, the list covers 60 of the United States’ largest trading partners. Within Southeast Asia, the economies included are Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the investigation is intended to determine whether governments have taken adequate steps to prevent goods produced with forced labor from entering their markets. “For too long, American workers and firms have been forced to compete against foreign producers who may have an artificial cost advantage gained from the scourge of forced labor,” Greer said. “These investigations will determine whether foreign governments have taken sufficient steps to prohibit the importation of goods produced with forced labor and how the failure to eradicate these abhorrent practices impacts US workers and businesses,” he added. Data from the International Labor Organization in 2021 showed that about 3.5 out of every 1,000 people worldwide—around 28 million individuals—were estimated to be in forced labor. The organization also estimates that the number of people trapped in forced labor increased by 2.7 million between 2016 and 2021. The Philippines and the US maintain a long-standing economic partnership, including the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement signed in 1989, which established working groups covering several areas of cooperation, including labor. Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 is a US legal mechanism used to address foreign government practices that may be unjustifiable, unreasonable or discriminatory and that burden or restrict American commerce. Under the law, the USTR may initiate investigations on its own authority. Once an investigation begins, the USTR is required to seek consultations with the governments whose policies are under review. Interested parties may submit written comments and requests to participate in the public hearings until April 15. The USTR is scheduled to hold hearings in Washington from April 28 to May 1, after which additional rebuttal comments may be submitted within seven days following the final hearing day.
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seeks logistics cost PHL to slash mining red tape, DTI relief for essential goods strengthen ties with Canada By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
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By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to sign an executive order that will cut the red tape in the processing time for mining business permits, a landmark reform aimed at unlocking investment in the country’s mineral sector, particularly on critical minerals. Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo revealed this plan before a group at a Philippine and Canadian
business forum hosted by thinktank Stratbase ADR Institute and the Asia Pacific Foundation of
Canada on Friday. Rodolfo stated that “(The EO) will be able to cut down the permitting process for the Philippines from an average of 11 years to 11 months without cutting corners, but just cutting red tape.” Rodol fo st ressed t hat t he streamlined process will continue to uphold environmental safeguards, labor protections, and community rights. The reform comes as Manila prioritizes mining and mineral processing as its top investment sector, alongside digital infrastructure, tourism, and high-value manufacturing. Canadian officials, including
former Trade Minister Mary Ng who is in Manila for the forum, welcomed the announcement, noting it could accelerate cooperation on critical minerals and energy security. Environment Undersecretary Primo David said the executive order has been two years in the making and reflects a recalibration of mining assets as national government projects. Based on the draft that the DENR submitted, the Philippine government “owns the mine and that mining companies will serve as contractor.” See “Red tape,” A11
BMI: AI automation will put PHL outsourcing jobs at risk
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HE countr y’s large outsourcing sector could face growing pressure from artificial intelligence (AI) as companies increasingly adopt automation to handle routine tasks traditionally performed by human workers, according to a report by a unit of Fitch Solutions. In its latest analysis, BMI said one of the key vulnerabilities in the region’s technology landscape lies in routine workflow automation and outsourcing services, an area where the Philippines has long been a major global player. “Routine workflow automation and outsourcing services, such as in the Philippines, where AI use cases are found within call centers remain particularly exposed,” as AI tools continue to evolve, the report said. The warning comes as AI becomes increasingly capable of handling repetitive or less complex tasks, raising the possibility of job displacement across Southeast Asia’s information technology outsourcing industry, which employs millions of workers. BMI noted that “agentic AIs” or autonomous AI systems could automate simpler tasks within a major employment segment of
the region, potentially leading to significant job losses if companies shift toward automated customer service and back-office operations. Despite these risks, the report said Southeast Asia’s broader technology sector remains relatively insulated from the recent selloff that has hit software companies in the United States (US). Un l i ke A mer ican markets, where stock indices are heavily dominated by large software firms and software-as-a-service providers, Southeast Asian economies remain more diversified. Many companies in the region are tied to traditional sectors such as banking, industrial production and hardware manufacturing, it said. “The US observes a notable split between software companies with deep enterprise integration and technical expertise—remaining resilient—and consumer applications, which are more easily commoditized by AI,” BMI said. By contrast, Southeast Asia’s technolog y ecosystem is less concentrated in consumer software, the BMI said. Growth in the region tends to be distributed across infrastructure de-
velopment, embedded software and sector-specific applications. As a result, BMI said the region may prove more resilient to swings in global AI sentiment. “While Southeast Asia is also experiencing widespread AI adoption, any AI-induced downturn is more likely to result in repositioning, with continued investment in areas where AI provides welldefined value,” the report said. Still, the risk remains most pronounced for companies whose operations depend heavily on software processing and digital workflows, since artificial intelligence is increasingly capable of automating these functions and reducing demand for legacy software products. Many Southeast Asian firms, however, rema in involved in hardware manufacturing and upstream roles within the AI value chain, such as chip production and digital infrastructure. These segments are considered less vulnerable to direct disruption from AI-driven automation. Companies in the region that have pursued deeper AI-driven transformation rather than incremental digital upgrades are already outperforming peers,
BMI added. Southeast Asia is also seeing strong investments in digital infrastructure to support the growth of AI technologies. This includes the construction and upgrading of data centers across the region to meet rising demand for computing power. The Philippines, in particular, has been positioning itself as a potential hub for data center development. According to the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, the country has significant renewable energy potential that could support expanding data center operations. In a February report, the group highlighted the vast untapped capacity of rooftop solar installations that could help power such facilities. At the same time, the Philippines has been making progress in strengthening its policy environment for artificial intelligence. Data from Oxford Insights showed the country climbed to 56th place out of 188 countries in the 2024 Government AI Readiness Index, an improvement from 65th place the previous year. Bless Aubrey Ogerio
House adopts cost-cutting moves, modified work setup By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
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HE House of Representatives has adopted a wideranging set of cost-cutting initiatives and modified work arrangements to streamline operations, reduce non-essential spending and promote more efficient use of public resources. In a memorandum dated March 12, it directs all offices to implement the measures in line with Malacañang’s fiscal discipline policy. “In line with the Office of the
President Memorandum Circular No. 114, dated 6 March 2026, the House of Representatives shall adopt the following modified work arrangements and guidelines to streamline operations, reduce non-essential expenditures, and optimize the use of public resources,” the memorandum said. The initiative is being carried out by the House leadership as part of broader government efforts to promote prudent spending while ensuring that public services remain uninterrupted. The measures include modified
work arrangements, restrictions on travel and meetings, tighter management of electricity and equipment use, transportation and fuel conservation policies, and expanded digitalization of documents and internal processes. Under the new work setup, offices will adopt a hybrid work arrangement during both recess and session periods. During recess, personnel will report on-site on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and work from home (WFH) on Mondays and Thursdays. For session periods, the House will maintain a stronger on-site presence to support legislative work, with personnel reporting on-site from Monday to Wednesday and working from home on Thursdays. The adjusted work setup, according to the memorandum, should not disrupt the delivery of services to lawmakers, employees and the public. All offices are directed to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of services by providing their contact details, including mobile numbers and email addresses. These contact details should be made publicly available and posted on the House of Representatives website, official Facebook account, and the HRep Viber Group, particularly during work-from-home (WFH) days to ensure continuous
communication and accessibility. Certain operational units—including the Engineering and Physical Facilities Department, Medical and Dental Service, Records Management Service and the Legislative Security Bureau—are required to maintain a skeletal workforce on-site during WFH days to ensure continuous operations. Employees who need to report to the office during WFH days must first secure prior approval from the Office of the Secretary General, the memorandum stated. The memorandum also imposes tighter controls on official travel and meetings to cut operational costs. Energy conservation measures form a major part of the initiative. Air-conditioning units may only be turned on at 8am and must be turned off at 6pm, except in essential areas such as the Session Hall during session days. Thermostat settings shall also be standardized at 24°C. Lighting and electricity consumption will likewise be closely managed, with natural lighting maximized where sufficient daylight is available and lights in restrooms, meeting rooms and workspaces required to be turned See “Cost-cutting,” A10
T
HE Department of Trade and Industry has recommended temporarily suspending certain government charges on port operations and cargo handling, alongside a moratorium on toll for trucks delivering essential goods, in a bid to keep prices of basic commodities stable. Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said the proposal covers government shares in port and cargo logistics handling costs imposed by the Philippine Ports Authority, Cebu Ports Authority and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. It also includes a temporary waiver of toll for cargo and delivery vehicles transporting basic necessities and prime commodities along major expressways. Roque said the measures are meant to ease logistics costs, which could otherwise push up retail prices during periods of disruption. “We have to make sure that the prices are down for now. They have informed us that they have inventory that will last for the next two months,” Roque said at a recent Senate hearing. The trade chief said the DTI continues to coordinate with manufacturers and retailers to ensure sufficient supply of basic necessities and prime commodities. These include ready-processed goods that fall under the agency’s official list of regulated items. “We monitor this on a regular basis because we have 18 regional offices nationwide, and on regular times they monitor this on a daily basis. So in times like this, like crises and calamities, we continue to monitor, but we are more strict here,” she said. While supply levels remain stable, the DTI acknowledged that price increases may still occur due to higher transportation and logistics expenses rather than changes in production costs. The agency said manufacturers of basic necessities and prime commodities under its jurisdiction are required to submit detailed cost structures. T hese repor ts inc lude a breakdown of key cost components such as fuel-related expenses linked to distribution, logistics and other transportation-related activities. Data submitted to the DTI show that fuel-related costs account for anywhere between 0.22 percent and 10 percent of total production costs, depending on the product. At a separate hearing of the
House Committee on Energy on Tuesday, DTI Assistant Secretary Regino Mallari Jr. outlined the major categories of basic necessities and prime commodities monitored by the agency. These include canned sardines, bottled water, processed milk, coffee, bread, instant noodles and canned meat. Mallari also presented simulations showing how suspending fuel excise taxes could affect the suggested retail prices of these items. Based on the estimates, canned sardines could see a reduction of around P1.13 or about 6 percent in their suggested retail price. Bottled water could drop by P0.16 or about 2 percent, while processed milk may decline by P1.36 or roughly 4 percent. Coffee prices could fall by about P0.11 or 2 percent, while bread could decline by P3.45 or roughly 8 percent. Instant noodles may decrease by P0.29 centavos or about 4 percent, and canned meat could drop by around P1.53 or about 8 percent. Despite the potential for cost pressures, Mallari said the DTI has not observed unusual price movements so far. “At this point, there are no abnormal increase in prices yet, and our major manufacturers of basic necessities have signified their inventory level at about two months from last week that we were consulting with them,” said Mallari, who also heads the DTI’s Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau. On proposals to give President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. an authority to suspend fuel excise taxes, the DTI said it would defer to the Department of Finance, which oversees fiscal policy. Meanwhile, Roque warned that the government would take action against businesses found taking advantage of the situation. “We will strictly monitor this also and definitely we will prosecute,” she said, referring to profiteers who may attempt to raise prices unjustifiably. The trade chief added that the National Price Coordinating Council was to convene on March 13 to discuss additional measures that implementing agencies under the Price Act can adopt to cushion the impact of current disruptions. The DTI also plans to meet again this week with around 30 logistics companies with which it has existing agreements, to ensure that transport costs remain manageable even during crises or emergencies.
Mayor Nancy Binay thanks PBBM for trike drivers’ subsidy By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
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O T I NG t h at t he y a re among the sectors most affected by the continuing increase in fuel prices brought about by tensions and conflict in the Middle East, Makati City Mayor Maria Lourdes Nancy Binay thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for the national government’s initiative to provide a P5,000 fuel subsidy to tricycle drivers in the city. “We thank President Marcos for immediately responding to the needs of our public transport drivers. Malaking tulong ito
para sa ating tricycle drivers na araw-araw na nagsusumikap upang maitaguyod ang kanilang pamilya [This is a big help to our tricycle drivers who must daily struggle to support their families],” Binay said, adding that the financial assistance will provide muchneeded relief to tricycle drivers. The mayor noted that the directive to distribute the subsidy was discussed during a meeting bet ween Executive Secretar y R alph Recto and Metro Manila mayors to ensure the fast and orderly rollout of the assistance See “Nancy,” A10
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Amor fati: Embracing the uncomfortable in later years
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HEN we were still relatively young, burning both ends of the candle in the corporate world, we were already looking forward to post-retirement, envisioning a wonderful life of ease, comfort and pleasure, and most of all free of stress. I can still remember the many times during break when my intimate circle of friends would compare notes on which countries to visit, which beach resort to bask in, what hobby to pursue, what place of adventure to explore, and so on. Now that we are already in advanced post-retirement, how does the dream align with reality? Recently, I interviewed a married couple who will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary sometime in July this year. The purpose was to gather materials to come up with a mini musical of their life together, which is to be staged during the golden anniversary party. Drawing from their respective wells of memories, they waxed romantic as they related anecdotes about their first encounter and the years prior to the wedding. It was love at first hello and so on. The bottom line was they felt they were “meant for each other” as their “stars aligned.” But the tone changed when I asked them what they envision after living together for 50 years. The 70 plus husband let out a heavy sigh. The wife also in her 70s just shrugged, as if to say I haven’t thought about it. I almost blurted: are you not excited about the next phase of your life? Inquiring further, I finally was able to see the subtext of their change in tone and demeanor. Empty nest. Increasing health issues. Fear of hospitalization. Anxiety about not enough money to sustain them in their last years. Intimations of mortality. When I told them “but you still have each other. Isn’t that enough to sustain you and make you happy?” They looked at each other and then the wife reached for her husband’s hand. She softly said: “Oo nga, naman.” (Yes, that’s true.) Was it just an afterthought? Did I detect a heavy sense of weariness? The other day, I met up with three senior friends well into their 70s. We all enjoyed our coffee, and then as usual talked about our common health issues and what we were all feeling about life in general. P. the morose one, has had the blues since the death of his wife two years ago. He seems to have become worse since I saw him at the funeral mass. Meanwhile, R. appears just going through the motions of old age. Of the three, D. has the brightest aura; he keeps himself busy with painting and feeding his stray cats. All in all,
the four of us share one distressing thing in common: health problems – some serious, some manageable – compounded by diminishing financial reserves. We seniors have to admit it. The life we have that leads to our final exit is not a life of ease and comfort, as we dreamed of when we were in
middle age. The line in the Bette Davis movie comes to mind: “Fasten your seatbelts, it’s going to be a bumpy night.” That said, the best way to live it is to grasp the ticket and enjoy the ride, bumps and all. Was it C.S. Lewis who wrote: “You can’t go back to change the beginning, but you can change the ending of your life story,” or words to that effect. Every morning when you wake up, remind yourself that your life is not defined by where you started. There’s time enough to give your life a satisfying conclusion. After all, you’re the writer, the actor and director of your story. There is a Latin phrase “Amor fati,” which means “love of one’s fate.” It describes a mindset of fully embracing all aspects of our life as old folks — both positive and negative — rather than merely enduring them. Espoused by Roman stoics, and popularized by the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, it encourages not just accepting but even loving everything that happens as necessary, purposeful, or as an opportunity for growth. In short, don’t just bear the unbearable but embrace it fully. When you feel sad or disheartened in a difficult episode, accept it. Swallow the bitter pill. Bite the bullet. Pain and discomfort have a way of showing us what really matter in the end. As the stoic philosopher Epictetus wrote: “We should bring our will into harmony with whatever happens, so that nothing happens against our will.” Then it ceases to be burdensome. Don’t resist it, complain about it, or avoid it. The more we fight against it, the more it becomes painful. Instead, see your-
self as fortunate or even “blessed” to receive and respond to the circumstances. After you fully embrace it, you will learn to find ways to use the difficulty to transform your life and become a better version of yourself. Take me, for example. Right now, I have shifted my life to lower gear. It now moves on a slow and deliberate pace. I no longer go out as much as I used to do. You know why? I have now taken on a new career: a home-bound caregiver to attend to my wife 24/7 who has a myriad of health issues: clog in her artery, knots in her lungs, painful arthritis on both knees as well as finger joints, acid reflux, and occasional palpitations and breathlessness. It can test my patience at times. I sometimes groan when I have to drive her to the doctor or hospital in a weekday in heavy traffic. I have to remember to make her remember to take her medicines on time. I wake up in the middle of the night because she groans in pain because of the excruciating knee pain. But because of my sense of amor fati, I have been able to transform it into a loving and meaningful experience. I can attest that there’s no greater love than pushing the wheelchair of your wife wherever you need to go. I may not have been able to take her to pleasure cruises like many other old couples have done, but spending a memory-recalling time over breakfast in the early morning is a more joyful trip for us than a dream vacation in Paris, London, Prague. My wife and I have learned to know each other better and consequently have grown closer to each other than ever before. Just being able to ease her pain even for brief episodes gives me a sense of fulfillment. I too have had my share of hea lt h issues, which caused me to go through unpleasant, embar rassing and humbling experiences. Reading and discussing my health issues with doctors has made me more medically literate, especially regarding geriatric ailments. I have gained insights on what ailing elderlies need and I have written helpful articles on what I have learned based on experience. Talk about your experience, share it with fellow seniors. Exchange best practices. You and they will have something good and useful to receive from each other. Then you won’t feel so alone in your term of trial. Amor fati is not about blind optimism or passive acceptance or denying our negative feelings in the twilight years. It is really about transforming discomfort and pain to be the fuel to make us love more fiercely and grow better. When we fully love our fate, life in the last phase of our journey can be beautiful and joyful—not despite its discomfort, pain, distress and humiliation, but because of them.
Editor: Angel R. Calso • Saturday, March 14, 2026 A5
Beyond cash: A time bank for our Golden Generation
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By Angel R. Calso
HE Philippines is approaching a demographic shift. With the number of senior citizens expected to comprise 20 percent of the population by 2055, the nation’s celebrated “demographic sweet spot” is giving way to a pressing silver challenge. While the newly enacted Philippine Geriatric Center Act is a crucial step toward securing healthcare funding, it addresses only part of the equation. It is time for the country to shift its focus from merely funding care to actively fostering connection. But how do we ensure that our senior citizens feel valued, supported, and connected? A potential answer lies halfway across the world, in Switzerland. Switzerland’s innovative “time bank” system offers a blueprint that the country, with our deeprooted culture of Bayanihan, is uniquely positioned to replicate and indigenize.
neighborhood groups mobilized within hours to deliver aid, embodying the true meaning of community solidarity when formal systems were overwhelmed. This same energy is present in corporate volunteer programs that boost employee satisfaction and in barangay-level efforts to combat health risks through collective action. Bayanihan is the recognition that we rise and fall together—a perfect philosophical foundation for a time bank.
What is a ‘Time Bank’?
THE core concept of a time bank is beautifully simple: it treats time as a currency. In Switzerland, programs like the one in St. Gallen allow healthy seniors and volunteers to earn “time credits” by helping older citizens with everyday tasks—grocery shopping, cooking, light gardening, or simply providing companionship. This hour of help is deposited into a virtual account. The volunteer can then “withdraw” that same amount of time in the future when they themselves need assistance. Initiated with support from the Federal Social Insurance Office, the Swiss model is more than just a feelgood community project. It is seen as a potential “fourth pillar” of the retirement system, reinforcing intergenerational solidarity, reducing the strain on professional healthcare services, and helping seniors live independently at home for longer. It is a system built on reciprocity and foresight, valuing everyone’s time equally.
The Filipino superpower: ‘Bayanihan’
WHILE the Swiss model is technologically savvy and institutionally supported, its lifeblood is the same force that has animated Filipino communities for centuries: Bayanihan or communal unity and cooperation. Professor Ambeth Ocampo beautifully traces the word to its roots: “Bayan,” meaning nation or community, and “Bayani,” meaning hero. In this sense, a hero is not a distant figure in a history book, but anyone who applies their knowledge and effort for the good of their community. We see this spirit manifest in times of crisis. In the aftermath of Super Typhoon Carina, for example, local running clubs, bike scouts, and
Designing a ‘Bayanihan Time Bank’
ADAPTING the Swiss model to the Philippine context requires more than just translation; it requires a cultural transplant. Here is how the country can capitalize on its strengths to build a robust, community-driven “Bayanihan Time Bank.” 1. Start with the “sari-sari store” approach: Hyper-local implementation Swiss time banks often operate at a city or cantonal level. In the Philippines, the most logical unit is the barangay. A “Bayanihan Time Bank” should be piloted at this grassroots level, where neighbors already know each other and trust is high. Instead of a complex digital platform from the start, the program could use a simple, community-managed ledger—a “talaan ng oras”—in the barangay hall. This lowers the barrier to entry for senior citizens who may not be tech-savvy. 2. Skills, not just services In Switzerland, services range from companionship to programming. A Philippine time bank must recognize the vast and diverse skills within a community. This is where the modern application of Bayanihan shines. Just as volunteers in Makati came together to create “Mabuhay Balls” to clean local esteros, a time bank could mobilize a former carpenter to fix a neighbor’s
Nearly 30K seniors in W. Visayas receive ₧315M in milestone gift By Perla Lena
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LOILO CITY—The National Commission of Senior Citizens in Western Visayas (NCSC-6) has already released over P315 million as cash gift for 29,791 senior citizens who reached their milestone age. One of the mandates of the NCSC, according to Western Visayas Regional Director Ann Rapunzel Ganzon, is the implementation of the Expanded Centenarians Act Program. “The implementation began in
2024. The start of the release of the cash gift was in 2025, thus, we retroact the 2024. This is not for indigents; this is a gift,” said Ganzon in a media forum on Tuesday. Data showed that the commission has released over P144.72 million for 14,211 grantees who reached their milestone age in 2024; while more than P170.29 million was released for 15,580 senior citizens who reached their milestone age in 2025. The regional office covers Western Visayas and Negros Occidental
and Bacolod City. Under the law, those who reached the milestone ages of 80 years old, 85, 90 and 95 will receive P10,000, while those 100 years old and above are entitled to a P100,000 cash gift. She said their last releases in 2025 focused on 2024 milestone agers in compliance with the order of their central office. Ganzon said they were supposed to release the incentive for the remaining grantees this March and April, but there might be revisions
because of the changes in their work arrangements. With the order for them to shift to a four-day workweek, they can only operate from Tuesday to Friday, she said. Ganzon said Western Visayas has the largest number of centenarians and has the highest number of milestone agers granted cash gifts among various regions in the country. “We have a lot of centenarians, they are 190, which only shows that here in Western Visayas, we have long life. The 29,791 (milestone agers)
makes us number one in the entire country to have received their cash gift,” she said. The NCSC data showed that 14,510 of the grantees were 80 years old, 9,968 were 85 years old, 3,965 were 90 years old, and 1,158 were 95 years old. It is also worthy to note that 21,077 of the grantees were female and only 8,714 were male. For the first quarter of 2026, they have already received around 6,000 applications that were endorsed by their local government units. PNA
broken chair, a retired teacher to tutor children, or a skilled cook to prepare meals for an ailing Lolo or Lola. These transactions become more than service exchanges; they are “Bayanihan Bonds.” They reinforce the idea that every individual, regardless of age, is a “Bayani” with something valuable to contribute. 3. The currency of dignity The Swiss program emphasizes that volunteers help with non-medical needs, providing a crucial social safety net that prevents loneliness. For our senior citizens, a time credit could be spent running errands for a sickly elderly neighbor, or an hour of “kwentuhan” to ease the solitude of living alone. This addresses a holistic concept of health, where emotional and social well-being are as important as physical health. 4. Institutional support without killing the spirit One of the key successes of the Swiss model is its partnership with the government, which provides funding and guarantees the value of the time credits. In the Philippines, the government, through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and local government units (LGUs), can play a similar role. It could provide the initial seed funding for a simple digital platform (perhaps building on the work of organizations already promoting volunteerism) and offer a “guarantee” for time credits, ensuring that if a volunteer moves away, their earned time is still honored. However, the management must stay in the hands of the community to preserve the spirit of kusang-loob. 5. Intergenerational reciprocity: The “ demographic sweet spot” in action With a large working-age population, the Philippines has a unique opportunity. Young professionals and students can be encouraged to earn “time credits” by assisting seniors. They are not just doing charity; they are investing in their own future. These credits could be saved for their own retirement, or even transferred to parents or grandparents living in the province, creating a digital “padala” (remittance) of care. This transforms the demographic sweet spot from a mere economic statistic into an active, intergenerational support network.
A future built on time
THE challenges of a graying population can seem daunting, but the Philippines possesses a cultural asset that money can’t buy. The spirit of Bayanihan is a standing testament that the country already knows how to weave a community of support, strength, and trust. By learning from structured models like Switzerland’s time bank, we can build a formal framework that empowers citizens to be heroes to one another. It would be a system where an hour of help is not just a transaction, but a legacy. A system where the value of a person is not measured by their wealth, but by their time and their willingness to share it. And for a nation that reveres its elders, there is no greater investment than that. NATIONAL Commission of Senior Citizens in Western Visayas Regional Director Ann Rapunzel Ganzon talks about their programs during a media forum on March 10, 2026. NCSC-6 has already released over P315 million in cash gift to 29,791 senior citizens who reached their milestone ages. PNA PHOTO BY PERLA LENA
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Saturday, March 14, 2026 • Editor: Gerard S. Ramos
BusinessMirror
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Quality of human relationships at work is deteriorating due to hybrid setup CISCO LAUNCHES HIGH-PERFORMANCE TOOLS FOR NEXT GENERATION OF AUTONOMOUS AI AGENTS
GREAT Place to Work said “technology and AI are boosting efficiency but testing human connection” PHOTO FROM GREAT PLACE TO WORK
BY RIZAL RAOUL REYES
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ITH 82 percent of Philippine businesses following a hybrid setup, there are workers who have never experienced a fully office-bound career. Considered an authority on workplace culture, Great Place to Work asked 450,000 Filipino workers last year: Is this a great place to work? The replies showed a workforce in transition. “Technology and AI are boosting efficiency but testing human connection; a rising Gen Z workforce is redefining balance and leadership; and growing economic pressure is putting fairness, pay, and job security under scrutiny,” said Great Place to Work in a statement. Great Place to Work uses recognition and tools to help leaders and organizations elevate their employer brands, capture and understand employee experiences, build cultures that retain talent, and unlock the potential of every employee. The Great Place to Work study showed that in Manila, capital city of the Philippines, co-working spaces have boomed with a 51 percent year-on-year growth. For early- and mid-career professionals (nearly 2/3 of the Great Place To Work dataset are under 35), flexible work is almost business as usual. Data also showed that the Philippines is an economy fueled by gigs and side hustles, with at least 1.5 million registered freelancers, making work from anywhere a real alternative. But hybrid working conditions and the work-fromanywhere culture also showed that the quality of human relationships at work is deteriorating. “Employees who say people care for each other at their workplace dropped from 88 percent in 2023 to 83 percent in 2025. Fewer workers find their workplace enjoyable, down from 87 percent to 83 percent over the same period,” said Great Place to Work.
Meanwhile, psychological and emotional health fell from 82 percent to 78 percent. The Great Place to Work Philippines Best Workplaces study also showed that the overall Trust Index score, a composite measure of how employees rate their workplace, dropped from 86 percent in 2023 down to 82 percent in 2025. Great Place to Work annually unveils the Best Workplaces list that recognizes organizations with exceptional workplace culture and employee satisfaction. List rankings are based on employee feedback, which is analyzed by in-house culture experts to determine the extent to which this experience is shared by the full workforce. The Best Workplaces in the Philippines 2026 will be announced on March 19. The event will recognize the organizations where employees consistently report high-trust, high-performance cultures. “The rankings are derived directly from employee survey data gathered across hundreds of companies, published in more than 60 countries, and represent the companies where what leadership promises and
what employees experience are actually the same thing,” said Great Place to Work. Fewer employees agree with the statement, “Taking everything into account, this is a great place to work,” down from 89 percent to 86 percent over the same period. Great Place to Work’s research also showed that an organization’s culture of innovation is the strongest predictor of employees’ adaptability to change. In the Best Workplaces, the Certified Companies that make it onto the Best Workplaces list, 93 percent of employees said they adapt to change quickly, while 96 percent of employees at Best Workplaces said they look forward to coming to work and “going the extra mile.” These reflect environments where experimentation is genuinely encouraged, and people feel comfortable speaking up. In 2025, among the Best Workplaces in the Philippines, according to Great Place to Work, are Accenture, Visa, Synchrony Global Services Philippines Inc., Capital One Philippines, Tech Mahindra Limited, TP, and Concentrix Philippines.
Indie games coming to Nintendo Switch consoles
BECAUSE not everyone wants to stick with AAA games. Nintendo of America on March 3 livestreamed Indie World showcase, highlighting upcoming indie games for their consoles, Nintendo Switch and Nintendo
Switch 2. Rotwood is a stylish side-scrolling co-op action brawler made by Klei Entertainment, the studio behind Don’t Starve. Here, you will battle corrupted beasts in dangerous forest arenas, relying only on your skill and loot. Practice is rewarded, especially during strong boss fights, so hack and slash your game away with Rotwood, now available exclusively on Switch 2. On the other hand, you can turn an empty van into your dream home with Square Glade Games and Silver Lining Interactive’s Outbound. A relaxing, openworld exploration game where you build, explore, and survive would set off as a fun, interactive game, whether you play alone or with friends. Outbound is coming to both consoles in April.
If you enjoy story- and explorationdriven hack-and-slash games, then Blighted is the action role-playing game (RPG) for you. You, as the lone survivor from the attack of Sorcisto, must recover the memories of your people before you succumb to the blight. Blighted will be available on Nintendo Switch 2 later this year. Mystery fans will enjoy the strange manor with locked doors and ever-shifting rooms from Dogubomb and Raw Fury’s Blue Prince. With the mansion resetting every day, you must find your way to the fabled Room 46. It is now available on Nintendo Switch 2. Some joys are in the mundane. And that’s what inKONBINI: One Store. Many Stories is all about, as the game will bring
you to a convenience store set in a 1990s town inspired by Japan. Here, you will stock shelves, scan items, talk with your neighbors, and find the little joys in life by helping your customers with their lives. The game is set for launch on both Switch and Switch 2 on April 30. Your peaceful and quiet life is in jeopardy as a supernatural serial killer is on the loose in Grave Seasons. In a not-so-ordinary farming simulator, you must find the culprit from this dark twist so you can enjoy your new farming life in the town. Grave Seasons will be coming this summer on Nintendo Switch. Check out the whole list by watching the Indie World showcase from Nintedo of America’s YouTube page. PATRICK VILLANUEVA
NETWORKING giant Cisco recently pointed out that it is implementing a massive architectural pivot in the industry, moving beyond simple automation into what it calls the “Agentic Era.” In the recent Cisco Live Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) 2026 held online, Cisco’s president and chief product officer Jeetu Patel said the company is pushing aggressively the envelope when it unveiled a suite of high-performance silicon, security, and AIdriven operational tools designed to support the next generation of autonomous AI agents. “We are spearheading performance, manageability and security in AI networking by innovating across the full stack,” said Patel. Patel said agents on an enterprise scale have to be given protection because artificial intelligence (AI) can cause potential challenges in the network. As AI moves from “answering questions” to “taking actions,” he said security risks have shifted to the tools and data agents access. According to the company, the real risk in the agentic era is bad actions, not just bad outputs. In response, Cisco introduced AI Defense updates to protect the AI supply chain, including a native protection layer for Model Context Protocol (MCP)— the emerging standard language for agent-to-tool interactions. Moreover, Cisco is the first to deliver full-stack Post-Quantum Cryptography across its routing and switching lines to protect data against future “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks. Patel said the innovation is extended to the end-user experience with the launch of the WebEx Translator Agent. Unlike traditional translation tools, this AI agent provides real-time, bi-directional speech-to-speech translation while preserving the speaker’s tone, emotion, and cadence. During the event, the company also announced the launching of the Cisco Silicon One G300, a “monster” switching chip delivering 102.4 terabits per bits per second (Tbps) of bandwidth. Designed to directly compete with Nvidia and Broadcom, the G300 is designed to power gigawatt-scale AI clusters. “Silicon One G300 represents a transformational leap in networking silicon, finely tuned for the demands of large-scale AI clusters. By significantly boosting network utilization, more GPU tokens are generated per hour. AI networking is critical in reshaping the economics and performance expectations for AI data centers. Back-end scale-out networks will rapidly move to 1.6T and be a key driver to push the Ethernet data center switch market above $100 billion a year,” said Alan Weckel,Founder and Technology Analyst at 650 Group. Patel said the company is building the foundation for the future of infrastructure, supporting every type of customer—from hyperscalers to enterprises—as they shift to AI-powered workloads. “As AI training and inference continues to scale, data movement is the key to efficient AI computation; the network becomes part of the computer itself. It’s not just about faster GPUs—the network must deliver scalable bandwidth and reliable, congestion-free data,” said Martin Lund, executive vice president of Cisco’s Common Hardware Group.
Capcom brings Pragmata, Mega Man, and other titles into spotlight for 2026 and beyond BY PATRICK VILLANUEVA AFTER the successful launch of Resident Evil: Requiem, selling over five million copies in its first week, with many dubbing it already as Game of the Year (GOTY), Capcom is doubling down on its success with trailers, announcements, and updates on its titles. On its latest Capcom Spotlight, dated March 6, 2026, available for viewing on their YouTube channel, Capcom revealed the launch date for the muchanticipated dystopian sci-fi adventure Pragmata. Initially announced to be released for 2022, Pragmata experienced delays, much to the dismay of fans, especially since this was about to be Capcom’s
first original franchise in eight years at the time. This time, however, Pragmata subverted everyone’s expectations jokingly by giving a false date of release, now launching “one week earlier” on April 17, 2026. Releasing on March 13, 2026 is Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Stories, a direct sequel to the role-playing game (RPG) Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin. The spinoff game explores the world of Monster Hunter, with players befriending and hatching monsters. They can also explore the world as “riders” instead of “hunters,” providing a different take from the main line of the game. The game is available on Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and Microsoft Windows.
The Mega Man franchise received two updates. For one, the upcoming Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection revealed its online features, providing players to battle it out with their deck on casual and ranked matches, along with a Trading and Brother List. Meanwhile, Mega Man: Dual Override revealed the winning designs out of 10,000 from the community, with the winners to be included as bosses of the upcoming game. The community selected six designs out of the 20 selected by Capcom. The game is set for launch on 2027. The Street Fighter franchise also got two updates. First, Street Fighter 6 welcomes a new addition to the roster with Alex, with the legendary wrestler Kenny
Omega providing its motion capture. Additionally, Dee Jay and Elena will be getting new, summerthemed cosmetics with Outfit 4. We will also be getting an update for the Street Fighter live-action movie, set for worldwide theatrical release on October 16, 2026. They also shared a behind-the-scenes look at the movie, which will also be shown on Capcom Cup 12. Other announcements included the overview of the upcoming title Onimusha: Way of the Sword, a celebration of 30 years of the Resident Evil franchise, and the scheduled Capcom Cup 12 and Street Fighter League. More information can be found at the YouTube channel Capcom USA or tinyurl.com/3zhexa6a.
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BusinessMirror
Editor: Gerard S. Ramos • Saturday, March 14, 2026
Big things come in smaller packages: Xiaomi unveils the Xiaomi 17 IN a social landscape where the value of things are seemingly increasingly related to their size, bigger is frequently regarded as better. Indeed, why settle for 43-inch LED TV when companies are now touting 100-inch screens that would be like having your own cinema at home? One of the world’s top consumer technology brands, Xiaomi recently unveiled at its hotly-attended Mobile World Congress 2026 showcase in Barcelona, Spain, all the tech goodness the company is serving up, from flagship tablets to a selection of Smart on the Go AIoT products including Xiaomi Scooter 6 Series and Xiaomi Watch 5. Showcasing its design ambition, Xiaomi also introduced Xiaomi Vision Gran Turismo, a visionary electric hypercar concept created for the legendary Gran Turismo franchise. Of course, what attendees were eagerly anticipating was the big reveal of the next-generation Xiaomi 17 Series, showcasing the company’s latest advances in mobile technology. Commanding attention was the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, the flagship device of the series that puts the spotlight on company’s partnership with legendary imaging giant Leica; plus the Leica Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi, which pretty much redefines what flagship-level imaging performance would look like in a smartphone form factor. For an even more compact imaging and technology experience, there is the Xiaomi 17 which will be our focus from hereon. With most flagships now pushing dimensions beyond what used to be your typical smartphone, the Xiaomi 17 is almost shocking to behold—and in a most pleasant way. Measuring at 8.06mm in thickness and weighing at just 191g, you would assume that the Xiaomi 17 lacks much of the imaging and tech muscles of its Ultra big brother—but that would be a seriously wrong assumption. The Xiaomi 17 boasts of high-end computational power, advanced imaging capabilities, and a robust battery. Available in striking color options—Venture Green, Alpine Pink, Ice Blue, and classic Black—it features a redesigned camera deco, significantly reduced curvature in the frame transition, and ultra-slim 1.18mm bezels. In addition to a sleek, bold, visually striking design, Xiaomi 17 is built to last, with Xiaomi Guardian Structure featuring a 6M42 aluminum frame, Xiaomi Shield Glass, and IP68 certification, ensuring durability and peace of mind. Xiaomi 17 comes in 256GB and 512GB storage variants, and is powered by the Android-based Xiaomi HyperOS 3. Meanwhile, the Xiaomi 17 compact imagery flagship boasts a versatile imaging system, centered around the top-of-the-line Light Fusion 950 image sensor with a 1/1.31” size and 2.4µm 4-in-1 Super Pixel, delivering an impressive 13.5EV high dynamic range for rich, true-to-life images in any lighting. Complementing this is a Leica 60mm floating telephoto lens, offering 60mm portrait photography, 5x optical-level zoom, precise 10cm macro, and 20x AI Ultra Zoom. For self-portraits, a new 50MP front camera features improved autofocus at both short and long distances. Videography is equally robust, supporting 4K 60fps Dolby Vision and 4K 60fps Log recording for crisp detail, consistent color, and impressive stability, enhancing clarity and streamlining workflow for professional-grade capture. Behind the Xiaomi 17 is the industry-leading Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform, delivering unmatched performance and the most advanced feature set found on a mobile SoC. The high-performance custom-built 3rd Gen Qualcomm Oryon CPU, next-generation Qualcomm Adreno GPU, advanced Qualcomm Hexagon NPU, RAM, and storage are suited to the most demanding mobile tasks and easily meet user needs, including rapid-fire photo and video capture, high-clarity video calls, high-productivity multitasking, and resource-intensive gaming. The Xiaomi 17 Series introduces up to 100W HyperCharge and, in addition, 100W PD-PPS charging, which opens up a wide range of compatible chargers. Users who purchase Xiaomi 17 Series in eligible markets will enjoy three exclusive benefits with no additional cost: a 3-month trial of Google AI Pro with expanded access to Google AI and 2TB of cloud storage; a 3-month trial of YouTube Premium, with ad-free access and offline downloads across YouTube and YouTube Music; and a 4-month trial of Spotify Premium with ad-free listening, offline downloads, and enhanced audio quality. WITH ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY GERARD RAMOS, DIGITAL LIFE EDITOR
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MIDEA spotlights its AI ECO Master and Smart Master home solutions, delivering optimized performance, enhanced energy efficiency, and intelligent control that empower consumers to truly master their home.
MideaCon 2026 highlights the next wave of smarter home appliances
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OUR phone may still be the smartest device in the house—but appliances like your air conditioner, refrigerator, and washing machine are becoming far more capable than they used to be. For decades, appliances in our homes simply waited for instructions. Turn the dial, push the button, set the timer. Today, many of them are beginning to behave differently—adjusting temperatures, optimizing energy use, and even anticipating household needs. That shift toward a more connected home environment was on display recently at MideaCon 2026, held at the SMX Convention Center in Clark, Pampanga, where global appliance manufacturer Midea gathered dealers, installers, and industry partners to showcase its latest generation of energyefficient and connected appliances.
THE POWER OF ONE
CARRYING the theme “Power of One,” the convention brought together Midea’s dealer network and technology partners to demonstrate how modern appliances are evolving through inverter technology, connectivity, and AI-assisted performance management. According to Anna Marie Alejandro, general manager of Concepcion Midea Inc. Philippines, the event reflects the company’s goal of empowering households with technology designed to simplify everyday living. “MideaCon serves as a reminder of Midea’s commitment to giving power to the customer—enabling them to master their homes through dependable AI-powered solutions that they can rely on for years to come,” Alejandro said during the event. Walking through the exhibition floor at SMX Clark, the displays focused on connected appliances designed to improve efficiency and simplify routine household tasks. At the center of the showcase were Midea’s AI ECO Master and Smart Master appliance lines, which the company says integrate advanced inverter systems, energy-efficient operation, and app-based controls across multiple appliances, including air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines.
COOLING TECHNOLOGY FOR THE SUMMER MONTHS
WITH the summer season approaching, airconditioning technology naturally became one of the busiest sections of the exhibition floor—unsurprising in a tropical country where cooling systems run for long hours during the hottest months of the year. One of the systems highlighted at the event was
the Midea Chione Inverter Series, available in both floor-standing and high-wall variants designed for different room sizes and installation requirements. The system includes Eco Mode, which regulates compressor performance to reduce unnecessary energy consumption, and AI Humidity Control, a feature designed to maintain balanced indoor humidity levels. Humidity management is particularly important in the Philippines, where high moisture levels can make indoor spaces feel warmer even when airconditioning systems are running. Also demonstrated at the event was the Avigator Full DC Inverter air conditioner. The Avigator incorporates AI Smart Control, which adjusts cooling output depending on room conditions and usage patterns. According to Midea, the system can reduce energy consumption by up to 40 percent compared with conventional air-conditioning systems. During demonstrations at the venue, the company also emphasized the unit’s rapid cooling capability, which can lower room temperatures by up to 6°C within 10 minutes—a feature designed to address the immediate cooling needs common in tropical climates. Another model displayed at MideaCon was the Numen Air Conditioner, which combines the AI Eco Master platform with anti-corrosion protection, advanced air-purification filters, and a self-cleaning mechanism that helps remove dust buildup inside the cooling system. These features are intended to improve air quality while reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
CONNECTED REFRIGERATORS AND WASHING MACHINE
THE kitchen appliance section featured the Midea Side-by-Side Inverter Refrigerator, equipped with Wi-Fi Smart Control. Through the Midea SmartHome App, users can monitor and adjust refrigerator settings remotely using a smartphone. The app allows homeowners to check internal temperatures, adjust cooling levels, and monitor operating status even when away from home. The refrigerator also uses inverter compressor technology, which adjusts power output depending on cooling demand. Instead of running at fixed speeds, the compressor operates at variable speeds, helping maintain stable temperatures while improving energy efficiency. In the laundry category, Midea showcased the Front Load Washing Machine Titanium Series, which integrates Internet-of-Things (IoT) connectivity for remote control and monitoring. Using a mobile device, users can start washing cycles, monitor progress, and receive notifications when laundry is finished. The system can also recommend washing programs depending on usage patterns and load conditions. Automation features such as remote cycle control and optimized washing programs help simplify routine laundry tasks while improving efficiency.
CELEBRATING PARTNERSHIPS
MIDEACON also served as a gathering point for the company’s dealer and installation network across the Philippines. One section of the exhibition floor highlighted the achievements of a Filipino team
that recently won the Midea Club Flash Installation Tournament in China, a competition that measures installation speed and technical accuracy among airconditioning technicians from different countries. The recognition underscored the role of trained installation professionals in ensuring appliances perform as intended once installed in homes and commercial spaces. Several executives from Concepcion Industrial Corp., Midea’s local partner in the Philippines, attended the convention, including Rafael C. Hechanova, chief corporate affairs officer; Raul Joseph Concepcion, chairman and president; and Ariel Fermin, chief executive officer. Their participation reflected the collaboration between Midea’s global manufacturing operations and Concepcion’s longstanding presence in the Philippine appliance market. The event also featured displays highlighting Midea’s sports sponsorships, including partnerships with the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Behind the appliances displayed at MideaCon is a company with a significant global footprint. Midea Group, founded in 1968, has grown into one of the world’s largest home appliance manufacturers. In 2024, the company reported US$56.9 billion in annual revenue, operates 63 manufacturing centers worldwide, and employs approximately 190,000 people across more than 200 countries and regions.
APPLIANCES THAT HELP MANAGE THE HOME AFTER several hours moving through product demonstrations and technology displays at SMX Clark, one observation stood out. The evolution of the smart home is no longer limited to voice assistants or connected gadgets. Instead, the shift is happening through the appliances people already use every day. Air conditioners regulate temperature and humidity automatically. Refrigerators can be monitored remotely. Washing machines can adjust wash programs depending on usage patterns. And if the direction showcased at MideaCon continues to develop, the Filipino home of the future may not simply contain smarter appliances. It may rely on them.
FROM left: Rafael C. Hechanova (chief corporate affairs officer, Concepcion Industrial Corp.), Raul Joseph Concepcion (chairman and president, Concepcion Industrial Corp.), Anna Marie Alejandro (general manager, Concepcion Midea Inc., Philippines), and Ariel Fermin (chief executive officer, Concepcion Industrial Corp.) at the MideaCon 2026
Education BusinessMirror
A8 Saturday, March 14, 2026
DepEd: Voucher system to boost access, public-private sector collab in learning
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By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes
HE Education Department is pushing for the expansion of the government’s voucher system as one of the most practical and scalable reforms to improve access, decongest public schools, and deepen public-private partnerships (PPPs). In a forum organized by the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd), Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara emphasized that the voucher program has grown significantly over the years. It is now valued at approximately P50 billion—a ref lection of the government’s ongoing reliance on private schools to help deliver education services. “The voucher system has expanded quite a bit,” Angara said, as he noted that it has become a central pillar of the administration’s efforts to address classroom shortages and enrollment pressures.
Under the program, qualified students— particularly those from low-income households—receive government subsidies that allow them to enroll in participating private schools. Instead of building new public-school facilities immediately, the government taps available capacity in private institutions, effectively allowing public funds to “follow the student.”
PPP philosophy ANGAR A underscored that the approach em-
bodies the PPPs’ core philosophy: leveraging private-sector capacity, alongside government oversight and funding. As part of recent reforms, the Department of Education (DepEd) has hiked the subsidy component for teachers under the voucher program. Those in private schools rose from P18,000—a rate that had remained unchanged since 2016—to P24,000. Still, the DepEd chief acknowledged that while adjustments have been effected, the program’s meaningful expansion will need additional appropriations from Congress. “When you say budget increase, it has to be substantial,” he said, while pointing to fiscal constraints that limit the department’s expansion of the program without legislative support. A key proposal now pending in the Lower House is the expansion of vouchers to cover Kindergarten through Grade 6. Currently, the program largely focuses on senior high school. Expanding coverage to earlier grade levels, Angara said, would support the administration’s broader push to strengthen early childhood education.
Access and reforms
FURTHER, education officials have repeatedly stressed that learning gaps begin in the earliest years, and improving access to quality early education is key to raising long-term academic performance. Beyond access, Angara also linked the voucher system to broader reforms aimed at aligning education with labor market needs. During the forum, discussions touched on strengthening pathways between senior-high school, technical-vocational education, and higher education institutions that will allow students to move more flexibly through the system. The secretary cited models abroad where students can complete short-term courses, enter the workforce, and later return to pursue higher degrees—a “lifelong learning” approach that he said the Philippines should work toward. Industry leaders present at the event echoed the need to better match education outputs with employment demand, as they suggested that vouchers and scholarships could be strategically directed toward skills-based programs.
Benilde represents PHL in AseanAussie regional reels collaboration
SCHOOL ZONE Nicanor Reyes Street, named after the founder of Far Eastern University (FEU), has been declared a “School Zone” by the City of Manila. The university’s vice president Edward R. Kilakiga considers this as “[a significant milestone in our continuous and untiring pursuit of improving the safety and security at] FEU. For Councilor Louisa Marie J. Quintos-Tan, one of the principal authors of Ordinance 9132 naming the street under Reyes, “it will most likely enhance the safety of pedestrians, especially students, by reducing the likelihood and severity of accidents [on the street] which have a high volume of foot traffic associated with school-related activities.” The ordinance includes the installation of safety measures and signage, while adjusting the number of seconds allotted for pedestrians to cross.
REGIONAL Reels Filmmakers at the multi-country screen industry exchange
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ILMMAKERS, industry practitioners, and academic regional partners convened in Brisbane for the “Gold Coast for Regional Reels: Crafting Screen Stories Across Borders.” It is a two-year, externally funded collaborative research and incubation project focused on screen development, mentorship, and cross-regional exchange. Launched in 2025, “Regional Reels” is administered by the lauded public institution Griffith University through the Griffith Film School, in collaboration with cultural initiative Asia Pacific Screen Academy. It is supported by the Asean-Australia Centre Grants Program of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The project brings together university partners across Southeast Asia and Austra lia to co -desig n work shops, suppor t early-stage screen concepts, and undertake practice-based research on regional screen collaboration. The initiative aims to strengthen professional networks among emerging filmmakers, encourage skill-sharing and mentorship, and examine how cross-border cooperation shapes creative practice and project development within the Asean-Australia screen ecosystem.
Regional university participation PARTICIPATING universities contributed through research engagement, educational activities, and non-commercial dissemination, consistent with the project’s research and capacity-building mandate. De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde represented the Philippines as a partner institution in the research consortium. Others included Nanyang Technological University (Singapore), King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (Thailand), Mahakarya Institute of the Arts Asia (Brunei Darussalam), and Multimedia University (Malaysia). School of New Media Arts Maria dean Sharon Mapa Arriola, who served as the college’s designated investigator and representative, led the country’s team.
In her role, Arriola supported the project through research participation, coordination, and academic contribution, aligned with Benilde’s commitment to practice-based inquiry in film and digital media. “Beyond institutional coordination, my engagement focused on examining how regional collaboration inf luences creative processes, professional formation, and intercultural exchange among Filipino filmmakers,” she shared. “The project provided valuable research context for understanding Asean-Australia screen collaboration, while supporting emerging voices in a noncommercial, educational setting.”
Philippines represented BENILDE nominated two Filipino filmmakers-educators to participate in the project’s incubation and mentorship activities: Alec Tash Berame is an assistant professor and current chairperson of the Benilde Film Program. He holds a Master of Arts in Communication from the University of the Philippines, with research interests in Philippine queer cinema and independent film production culture. His professional experience includes work with ABS-CBN Film Studios (Star Cinema) and TBA Studios, as well as creative consultancy for development organizations in partnership with the United Nations. Likewise, Anya Nicole Isabel Zulueta is a filmmaker, copywriter, and film educator, and an alumna of Armando “Bing” Lao’s Found Story Writing Workshop. She placed second in the Young Creatives Challenge (Screenwriting Category), and is currently completing her Master’s degree in Digital Media at Benilde. Regional Reels will run through February 2027, or later as formally agreed by the project partners and the funder. Project outputs, including screen concepts and research materials, are governed by the project’s collaborative framework. This enables non-commercial use by partner universities for teaching, research, and dissemination.
QC, BDO empower small business owners via financial literacy, entrepreneurship training
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HE Quezon City Small Business Cooperatives Development and Promotions Office (QC-SBCDPO) and BDO Foundation teamed up for “Ayusin ang Pera, Palaguin ang Negosyo,” a learning session on financial literacy and entrepreneurship held at the Amoranto Sports Complex in Quezon City. The activity, seen as a positive way for “nano-entrepreneurs” to welcome 2026, was facilitated by savings advocate Chinkee Tan, who shared lessons with his signature mix of wit, humor, and practical advice. More than 200 nano-entrepreneurs learned essential skills, mindsets, and attitudes needed to start, manage, and grow a business. Sarisari store owners, market vendors, and other self-employed individuals with a small capital gained practical insights from the “Pambansang Wealth Coach,” as he drew from personal experiences and challenges. City Government Department Head III of the QC-SBCDPO Mona Celine Marie V. Yap emphasized that similar capacity-building activities are available to QC’s small business owners at no cost, through partnerships with various organizations, including BDO Foundation. In Filipino, Yap said similar to financial literacy events, a business owner can avail of
free training given by partners of the city local government unit (CLGU). In his message of support, President Mario A. Deriquito of BDO Foundation said that it is BDO Foundation’s belief that with the right knowledge in finance and entrepreneurship, business owners will be more prepared to make better decisions and plan for the future. Aside from Tan’s learning session, participants were also briefed on the QC government’s Nano-Enterprise Registration Program. The briefing encouraged nano-enterprise owners to register their businesses with the CLGU. During the session, participants were informed that registered nano-enterprises may avail of tax and registration fee exemptions, in accordance with existing local ordinance. QC District 1 Councilor Charm M. Ferrer delivered a message in her capacity as chairperson of the Committee on Micro, Small, and Medium Business Entrepreneurship Development and Cooperatives. Through this effort, BDO Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing financial inclusion by empowering business owners with the right knowledge and confidence they need to plan and make decisions about their future.
MORE than 200 nano-entrepreneurs from Quezon City laughed and learned with “Pambansang Wealth Coach” Chinkee Tan (left) as he shared tips on starting and growing a business and effectively managing finances. QC-SBCDPO
Editor: Mike Policarpio
Bitget champions women shaping PHL’s educationfirst Web3 growth
CEO Gracy Chen of Bitget
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HE world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX) Bitget has highlighted the growing impact of women-led Web3 education and advocacy in the Philippines through its flagship women-in-blockchain initiative “Blockchain4Her.” The initiative supports women who are advancing blockchain literacy, community access, and responsible participation across emerging digital economies. Blockchain4Her is designed to elevate and empower women in blockchain through education-first programs, grassroots partnerships, and community-led advocacy. By focusing on access, knowledge, and long-term inclusion, the initiative aims to close the gender gap in Web3 and create pathways for women to participate as builders, educators, and decision-makers. In the Philippines—a market shaped by strong grassroots adoption and a rapidly expanding digital economy—Blockchain4Her has supported women working at the intersection of education, community-building, and responsible innovation. Advocates, including Bea Llana, Arshelene “Tita Arsh” Lingao, and MaryWave or “Wave3,” have emerged as leading voices helping women and young people approach Web3 with clarity, structure, and purpose. “We started Blockchain4Her to create a safe space and build confidence for women to imagine a future in Web3,” said Bitget CEO Gracy Chen, who is also the initiator of Blockchain4Her. “Seeing women in the Philippines take ownership of education and communitybuilding shows what inclusion looks like when it begins at the grassroots level.”
Common focus ACROSS their work, the advocates share a common focus on education over speculation and long-term understanding over short-term participation. Llana, a Southeast Asia–based ecosystem builder and co-founder of “Buhayin,” has worked to translate blockchain and emerging technologies into practical opportunities for local communities, particularly through education and connectivity initiatives in underserved island regions. “Working closely with communities showed how thoughtfully applied blockchain technology can support access and participation,” Llana said. “That’s when curiosity became intention.” Education has also been central to the work of Lingao, who is the founder of Cryptita Plays and focuses on improving Web3 literacy among Filipino youth and underserved communities. Alongside Bitget’s other initiative “Blockchain4Youth,” she developed the Young Learners’ Encyclopedia—an accessible resource designed to introduce blockchain concepts in a clear and age-appropriate way. “Too many young people enter crypto without honest guidance,” Lingao said. “Education helps them see Web3 as a space for learning and creativity—not hype.”
Women without pressure ADDRESSING similar gaps in the trading space, MaryWave has built education-driven communities built around market structure, discipline, and risk awareness. The co-founder of Wave3, she has focused on creating environments where women and beginners can learn without pressure or misinformation. “What was missing was structure and honest education,” she said. “When people understand the market, confidence replaces fear.” Through Blockchain4Her, Bitget continues to support women-led initiatives that emphasize responsible learning, long-term empowerment, and inclusive participation in Web3. In markets like the Philippines, where community-driven education plays a critical role, the initiative aims to ensure that women are equipped with knowledge beyond hype, as they explore opportunities in Web3. This approach aligns with Bitget’s global education initiatives with UNICEF, which aim to expand access to digital skills and blockchain education for young people and underserved communities worldwide.
Tourism&Entertainment BusinessMirror
Tourism Editor: Edwin P. Sallan
Saturday, March 14, 2026 A9
MAGICAL MYSTERY CRUISE What to discover inside the spanking new Disney Adventure Story & photos by Ginger Franz S. Ocampo
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VID Disney fan or not, this is a cruise you have to try at least once. Disney Cruise Line has long been famous among travelers, with itineraries primarily visiting destinations in the United States. Now, the magic has finally arrived in Asia with the launch of the Disney Adventure, the first Disney Cruise Line ship to homeport in Singapore. Now sailing, the Disney Adventure is also the largest ship in the fleet, with a gross tonnage of 208,000 and the capacity to carry up to 6,700 passengers. It is the first Disney cruise ship based in Asia, and for many Filipinos, its location in Singapore makes the experience much more accessible. Compared to other Disney cruise ships, the Disney Adventure mainly sails between Singapore and Malaysia. According to its official website, a four-night cruise costs around P83,915, while a shorter three-night stay cost around P65,381. Both bookings already cover two guests sharing a single room. It’s also worth mentioning that for those willing to pay a premium for exclusive amenities, there is an exclusive Concierge area that includes suites and staterooms, a lounge, an outdoor sundeck and spa and fitness services. But the real highlight of the cruise is not the destination—because the ship itself is the destination. From the moment you step onboard, there’s a lot to discover in Disney Adventure. Everything feels like a mystery simply because it’s everybody’s first time to be a guest here. True to its name, the cruise provides an immersive world inspired by beloved Disney stories. Rooms and spaces across the ship are themed after iconic films, and restaurants also carry the magic of movies like Tangled, Frozen, and Inside Out. Dining is an adventure in itself, especially in places like the Disney Navigator’s Club and Animator’s Palate, where meals are paired with themed environments and interactive entertainment. Live shows are another major highlight. Guests can watch productions such as “Moana: Call of the Sea,” “Disney Seas the Adventure,” and exclusive to Disney Adventure, “Remember.” These shows, described as Broadway-style, feature energetic choreography, impressive stage design, and talented casts that bring beloved characters to life. The performances make great use of the theater space, making the experience feel immersive—almost like stepping into a Disney film. So once your heart is set on sailing on the Disney Adventure, what should you expect?
toothpaste, combs, and shavers are not complimentary, so it’s best to bring your own. However, rooms already include shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and a hair dryer. The ship itself is divided into seven themed areas, each offering different activities, dining options, and attractions.
Imagination Garden
ONE of the most lively areas onboard is the Imagination Garden, where many daily activities take place. Mornings often begin with the Baymax Super Exercise Expo, where guests can dance along to a fun routine led by Baymax. Another show in this area is “Duffy and the Friend Ship,” featuring Duffy, the stuffed bear Minnie Mouse once gave to Mickey to accompany him on his voyages. In the show, Duffy becomes the captain of the ship as he sails alongside his friends. Marvel fans will also enjoy “Avengers Assemble,” a live-action stunt show featuring exciting fight scenes, humorous moments, and surprise appearances from fan-favorite heroes. Kids especially enjoy the interactive parts where the Avengers engage directly with the audience. At night, the area transforms into a party venue with a silent disco. Guests are given headphones with three music channels, each represented by a different color. Whether dancing or simply watching from the side, the experience is entertaining as everyone enjoys their own music. Imagination Garden also offers unlimited complimentary drinks, along with dining options like Gramma Tala’s Kitchen and Mowgli’s Eatery, which serve Indian and Pacific-inspired dishes.
Disney Discovery Reef
STEPPING into Disney Discovery Reef feels like entering an underwater world. Coral-inspired designs, blue lighting, and glass canopies create the illusion of being beneath the sea. The area is also filled with dining op-
Your Golden Ticket: The Disney Cruise Navigator App
BEFORE anything else, downloading the Disney Cruise Navigator app is essential. The app acts as your main guide during the cruise and is used to access important information once you board. In many ways, it functions like a passport to the ship. Inside the app, guests can access a map of the ship, receive updates about daily events, and check show schedules so they won’t miss important performances. Most importantly, it is where guests reserve entertainment shows, dining schedules, and photo opportunities with Disney characters. Reservations through the app are extremely important because the cruise strictly follows scheduled bookings. Guests who do not reserve in advance may not be able to participate in certain activities. Another thing to note is that Wi-Fi onboard is not free. Guests can purchase either a Wi-Fi-only package or Wi-Fi plus streaming, which allows access to apps like YouTube and Spotify. Prices range from $26 to $42 per day, depending on the package. Basic toiletries such as toothbrushes,
CLOCKWISE from top left: The Disney Adventure cruise ship, Toy Story Place at the upper deck, The view from the top, Town Square, Imagination Garden, ‘Avengers: Assemble’ show
tions. Guests can grab quick bites at Cosmic Kebabs or enjoy drinks at Bewitching Boba and Brews, a milk tea shop offering different flavors such as matcha milk tea. The drinks are pleasantly balanced—not overly sweet—with delicious chewy boba. Another standout spot is Ohana Grill, a Hawaiian-inspired restaurant based on Lilo & Stitch. The restaurant serves burgers, fries, and hot dogs, making it a great stop after spending time in the sun. Guests can also visit Taverna Portorosso, a sports bar, and Palo Café, a walk-up coffee bar inspired by the seaside Italian town featured in Pixar’s Luca. For more upscale dining, there are restaurants like Palo Trattoria and Mike and Sulley’s Flavors of Asia. At night, the entire area transforms as blue lighting turns Discovery Reef into a glowing bioluminescent paradise.
Toy Story Place
FOR outdoor fun, Toy Story Place offers several water attractions and familyfriendly activities. Guests can swim at the Sunnyside Family Pool, try slides at Woody and Jessie’s Wild Slides, or splash around at the
Flying Saucer Splash Zone and Toy Story Splash Pad. There are also whirlpool spas where visitors can relax. Two jumbo screens also play Disney movies by the pool, creating a fun atmosphere for families. And after a swim, guests can grab food from Pizza Planet or enjoy unlimited softserve ice cream at Wheezy’s Freezies.
Marvel Landing
LOCATED on the upper deck, Marvel Landing is where thrill-seekers will find some of the ship’s most exciting rides. This area features attractions like Groot Galaxy Spin, Pym Quantum Racers, and Ironcycle Test Run—the first-ever roller coaster aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship and currently the longest roller coaster at sea. Even riding something like Groot Galaxy Spin feels unusual when you realize you’re doing it in the middle of the ocean. Marvel Landing also includes a running track, making it easy for guests to maintain their workout routines while onboard.
Wayfinder Bay
GUESTS looking for a more relaxing atmosphere can head to Wayfinder Bay. Here, visitors can lounge on tiered deck seating, cool down with drinks from the Wayfinder Bar, or enjoy the shallow wading pool. The area also features a massive screen used for interactive events and live shows such as “Moana: Call of the Sea.”
San Fransokyo Street
AMONG the cruise’s many dining adventures
INSPIRED by the world of Big Hero 6, San Fransokyo Street quickly became one of the most visited areas during the preview sailing. The area includes youth clubs like Edge (for ages 11–14) and Vibe (for ages 14–17). These clubs feature gaming consoles such as Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5, where guests can play games like the Mario franchise, Overcooked, NBA 2K, and FIFA. Table tennis and card games are also available. Access to the clubs is restricted to the designated age groups unless it is open house night, when guests of all ages are allowed to explore. San Fransokyo Street also features arcade games and the popular Baymax photo opportunity, which often attracts long lines. For movie lovers, Baymax Cinemas screens Disney and Marvel films throughout the day. Titles include Fantastic Four, Avatar, Zootopia, Lilo & Stitch, Big Hero 6, and more. Guests can check the schedule through the Navigator app and freely move between cinemas.
Town Square
FOR fans of Disney royalty, Town Square is the perfect place to explore. The area features dining locations such as the Enchanted Summer Restaurant and the Olaf dining room. Guests can also enjoy live performances ranging from band music to violin showcases. Creative activities like drawing sessions and origami workshops are also held here. And if you’re lucky, your favorite princesses might stop by. During my visit, I spotted Tiana, Jasmine, and Rapunzel walking around the area. At the center of Town Square is the Walt Disney Theater, where guests can watch major productions like “Remember,” which follows Wall-E as he tries to restore Eve’s memories by revisiting scenes from beloved Disney films. Another show, “Disney Seas the Adventure,” follows Goofy as he takes on the role of ship captain after being assigned by Minnie Mouse, meeting beloved Disney characters along the way. The area also includes the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where children can transform into princesses, knights, or sea captains. Meanwhile, the Marvel Style Studio offers face painting so guests can become their favorite superheroes.
Worth Mentioning
BEYOND the themed areas, there are several additional experiences worth trying. At D Lounge, guests can enjoy trivia nights and karaoke. Through the Navigator app, visitors can even reserve their own karaoke room for free. Another highlight is “The Lion King: Celebration in the Sky,” a spectacular fireworks display narrated by Indian superstar Shah Rukh Khan and set to the music of The Lion King. Longtime Disney Cruise guests also practice a tradition known as Pixie Dusting. This involves leaving small gifts outside other passengers’ stateroom doors to spread joy and Disney magic. Guests are reminded to be respectful and not take gifts meant for others. Interestingly, the walls and doors outside staterooms are magnetic, so many passengers decorate them with magnets as part of the tradition.
Practical Things to Know
THE ship also includes practical amenities such as a free fitness gym and a spa offering massages, facials, hair styling, and other treatments. There is also a clinic onboard that provides medicine for seasickness if needed.
Even though the cruise operates in Asia, the onboard currency used is in US dollars. Because the ship is massive, it’s easy to get lost. Thankfully, the Navigator app helps with navigation, and the staff members are extremely friendly and helpful. Many of the crew members are from Southeast Asia, and a large number are Filipinos. For Filipino guests, this makes communication easier and adds a familiar touch during the trip.
A Magical Experience at Sea
AS my first cruise and my first Disney Adventure came to an end, I realized how easy it is to get lost in the magic of it all. Not just because the ship itself is massive, but because every corner seems to have something happening at the same time. There are shows, games, characters, food, and activities that make you feel like there is always something you might miss. Personally, I do wish I had experienced something like this when I was younger. Many of the activities are clearly designed for kids, and seeing them run around the ship meeting their favorite characters made me wonder how exciting that would have been as a child. Still, even as an adult, it was surprisingly easy to forget that for a while. Watching the shows, spotting princesses walking around, and even dancing at the silent disco somehow brings out the inner child in you. At the same time, four days on the cruise felt shorter than expected. With so many activities happening across the ship, it is almost impossible to experience everything unless you follow a very strict schedule. Some events overlap, while others, especially the popular character photo opportunities, attract long lines. In many ways, time becomes your biggest challenge onboard. But maybe that is also part of the experience or should I say, the appeal of this magical mystery cruise. The Disney Adventure is not just about checking off activities or watching every show. It is about enjoying the small moments in between. It could be watching fireworks from the deck, randomly running into characters, or simply walking around the ship and discovering something new. For kids, it is clearly a dream come true. But even for adults, especially those who grew up watching Disney movies, the experience has a way of bringing back a sense of wonder. And for a few days at sea, that feeling alone makes the journey worth it. Tour-
ism editor Edwin P. Sallan contributed to this report.
News
A10 Saturday, March 14, 2026
www.businessmirror.com.ph
PHL makes top 10 for Lunar New Year ‘young’ travel sites C
Cebu transport groups push LGU-based fuel subsidy plan
By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo
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Special to the BusinessMirror
HE Philippines finally cracked the top 10 list of destinations for young outbound Chinese travelers during the recent Lunar New Year celebration.
In a recent post, Dragon Trail International showed Chinese online travel agency Mafengwo listing the Philippines as sixth on its list of top outbound destinations from February 15 to 23, the longest Lunar New Year holiday period in mainland China so far. The list was topped by Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Türkiye, and Vietnam. “Mafengwo reported that outbound reservations increased by close to 30 percent compared to last year,” said Sienna ParulisCook, Director of Marketing and Communications in her report for Dragon Trail, a market-research company focused on the Chinese market. Mafengwo is the leading socialtourism platform in China with an estimated 140 million users, according to published reports. Its target audience are young, independent, and tech-savvy travelers with high purchasing power, and offers them bookings for flights, hotels, attractions, and local experiences, with increasing focus on AI-driven travel planning.
9.5-M border crossings
THE Philippines, which recently offered visa-free travel for 14 days to mainland Chinese travelers, failed to make the lists of other
Cost-cutting. . . Continued from A4
off when not in use. Computers and other office equipment will also follow stricter energy-saving protocols, including automatic monitor shutoff after five minutes of inactivity and limiting printing to essential documents while encouraging electronic circulation of files. Transportation and fuel conservation measures are also part of the policy, including a strict no-idling rule for vehicles within House premises, the temporary suspension of requests for official House vehicles and the promotion of carpooling and alternative mobility such as bike racks. Beyond the immediate costsaving measures, the House will pursue longer-term investments to improve energy efficiency and sustainability across its facilities. “The institution shall pursue long-term investments in energyefficient technologies, including the installation of solar panels and adoption of net metering systems,” the memorandum states. “Lighting systems shall transition to high-efficiency LED fixtures, and inverter-type air-conditioning units shall be prioritized.” The offices will designate energy efficiency officers or “Green Teams” to monitor compliance and recommend additional strategies to strengthen cost-cutting efforts. The Executive Committee will also meet regularly to assess the impact of the measures and consider further initiatives to improve efficiency across the institution.
online travel platforms such as Fliggy’s, Tuniu, Tongcheng, Qunar, and Zuzuche. As of press time, no data could be made available by the Department of Tourism regarding Chinese tourist arrivals in February this year. However, in January 2025, 15,752 Chinese nationals arrived in the country, 39.26 percent less year on year. Prior to the pandemic, China was the second largest market for the Philippines, with 1.74 million visitor arrivals in 2019. Citing data from the China’s National Immigration Authority, Dragon Trail said there were some 9.51 million “border crossings [outbound and inbound] by mainland Chinese citizens during the holiday period, with a daily average 10.2 percent higher than in 2025.” Due to the long holiday, the research company said many Chinese travelers may have “extended trips” until the end of February, “especially to long-haul destinations.” Italy, which hosted the 2026 Winter Olympics, also received a massive boost of Chinese travelers during the nine-day Lunar New Year, “benefiting from strong air connectivity with China.” Tongcheng said hotel bookings in Italian cities, including Milan and
WHERE in the world are mainland Chinese travelers going this year? Visa-free entry, sports, and film/TV releases are among the factors that will likely dictate their destination choice, according to Dragon Trail International, a market research firm focused on the Chinese market.
Venice, “increased by more than 200 percent, yoy.” Italy also ranked among the top 10 outbound destinations of Tuniu and Mafengwo.
2026 travel trends
MEANWHILE, Dragon Trail cited key travel trends in China’s outbound tourism market for 2026, such as visa relaxation; the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI) by both consumers and travel operators (AI translation and interpretation at industry events, AI-powered personalized itinerary planning); sports events (Fifa World Cup, Esports World Cup), international film and TV releases; and new attractions being developed in Middle East and North Africa (The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Studio Ghibli on Saadiyat Island). The research firm cited visafree announcements from Russia (until mid-September), Cambodia (trial in June-October), Türkiye (starting January 2), and Brazil (evisa in the first half of the year). It predicted that Laos, Kyrgyzstan,
and Mongolia will also likely go visa free this year. As for travel inspiration, Dragon Trail cited VisitBritain’s research which shows that 96 percent of Chinese travelers considering travel to the United Kingdom are interested in visiting filming locations. “A new installment of the Narnia series is very likely to be released in Chinese cinemas in 2026, featuring filming locations throughout London and Manchester. Coming to small screens in 2026 is a third season of House of the Dragon, primarily filmed across England and Wales, as well as Spain and Portugal. Also likely to get theatrical releases in China this year are a live-action Moana, filmed in Hawaii, and Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, with potential to inspire travel to Greece, as well as other filming locations in Morocco, Italy, Iceland, and Scotland. Finally, Dune: Part Three is expected at the end of the year, featuring desert landscapes in Abu Dhabi and Jordan,” noted Parulis-Cook.
NTF-Elcac asks universities to raise level of debate on youth recruitment By Rex Anthony Naval
N
ATIONAL Task Force to End Loca l Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. on Friday called on universities across the country to raise the level of discourse on insurgency, youth recruitment, and academic freedom, stressing that honest and responsible debate—not propaganda or slogans—must guide discussions in campuses if the nation is to achieve just peace and genuine nation-building. Torres, in a statement, said recent social media debates triggered by a forum held last year at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) highlight the continuing tension between academic freedom and the need to openly confront the realities of insurgency and the recruitment of young people into armed struggle. “Universities have always been spaces where ideas collide. Here, convictions are tested and difficult national questions are debated,” Torres said. “Our aim should always be to elevate discourse in ways that promote peace and academic freedom while steering conversations away from propaganda and toward just peace and nation-building,” he added. The NTF-Elcac official also
emphasized that the government respects the vital role of academic institutions as venues for cr it ic a l t h in k ing a nd intel lect u a l e xc ha nge, where st udents a nd facult y members can cha llenge eac h ot her’s v iews a nd e x a mine even t he most content ious nat iona l issues. The forum held at UST, he noted, was part of this long-standing academic tradition. However, Torres said individuals who speak about insurgency and youth recruitment—particularly former rebels and scholars with firsthand knowledge— should not automatically be dismissed as enemies of academic freedom. “Many of those who speak candidly about these matters do so precisely because they have witnessed how young lives can be drawn into cycles of violence through ideological manipulation or what can be described as terror grooming,” he said. According to Torres, professors and resource persons who raise these concerns deserve to be heard even when their views are strongly contested. “Passionate debates are part of university life,” he said. “But the manner in which we engage each other—whether with respect or dismissal—ultimately determines whether dialogue enlightens or divides.”
Torres added that the controversy surrounding the UST forum ref lects a broader national conversation about insurgency, genuine and peaceful activism, and the responsibility of institutions to protect young people from being drawn into armed conf lict. For decades, he noted, the Communist Party of the Philippines and its so-called national democratic organizations have invested significant effort in organizing within major universities and schools across the country with the end goal of indoctrinating the youth to embrace armed violence —a reality acknowledged by former members and even by the movement itself. He stressed that this historical reality does not mean universities are to blame when some students later join armed insurgent groups. “Many former rebels now working in peace-building recount how their political journeys began inside campuses where narratives romanticized armed struggle while downplaying its human cost,” Torres emphasized. Because of this history, he said, discussions about recruitment, radicalization, and protecting the youth are necessary—even when they provoke discomfort or disagreement. See “NTF-Elcac,” A11
By Carmel Pedroza
E B U C I T Y—Tr a n s p or t groups in this city have proposed that the cit y government adopt a fuel subsidy scheme modeled after the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board’s (LTFRB) Net Service Contracting Program to help drivers cope with rising diesel prices. Under the proposal, drivers would receive payments based on the number of kilometers they travel, while still collecting fares from passengers. The per-kilometer payment, to be shouldered by the city government, could help drivers offset their fuel expenses. The proposal was discussed at a meeting between Cebu City officials led by Mayor Nestor Archival and transport leaders aimed at providing immediate financial relief to drivers whose incomes have been squeezed by higher diesel costs while fares remain unchanged. Archival said transport groups requested for direct fuel assistance to help sustain daily operations, particularly for jeepney drivers and transport cooperatives. “We asked them to submit their formal request and list of members by Friday until Saturday,” Archival told reporters after the meeting. “We will verify these with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and see what funds are available so we can help them.” If funds are identified, the mayor said the proposed subsidy would be included in a supplemental budget that will undergo the city’s approval process.
Proposed fuel subsidy
TR ANSPORT leaders suggested a subsidy similar to the national government’s previous service contracting program. Under the proposal, modern jeepneys could receive around P4,500 per unit daily, while traditional jeepneys may receive about P3,500, based on rates previously implemented by the LTFRB. Archival said the exact amount has yet to be determined as the city government continues to assess available funds. “It will depend on the budget available. If there are remaining funds, for example P10 million or P15 million, we will see how we can distribute that among the drivers,” he said. The mayor added that the city must follow the proper process before any funds can be released. The proposal will first be presented to the Cebu City Development Council (CCDC) for endorsement before it is forwarded to the City Council as part of the Annual Investment Program and a supplemental budget. A rc hiva l sa id he hopes to convene the CCDC next week once transport groups submit the required data.
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for public utility drivers, prioritizing tricycle drivers under local government jurisdiction. Ot her transpor t sectors l i ke jeepney drivers and operators will follow. Under the program, each qualified tricycle driver will receive P5,000 in financial assistance. Distribution in Metro Manila is expected to begin next week and will be led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr), in coor-
Drivers struggling with rising diesel costs
TRANSPORT leaders said the request comes as diesel prices have nearly doubled compared to previous years, cutting deeply into operators’ revenues. Priscilla Cabonita, chairperson of the Lahug Apas Transport Cooperative (Latransco), said the cooperative continues to operate despite shrinking margins to ensure drivers still receive wages. “Diesel has doubled compared to before. Many of our earnings are now eaten up by fuel expenses,” Cabonita said. Unlike the traditional boundary system, Latransco operates under a salary-based scheme for its drivers. Drivers earn a minimum of about P600 daily, with incentives that can increase their takehome pay to P1,000 to P1,500, depending on revenue. The cooperative currently runs 153 modern jeepney units, all of which remain operational despite financial strain. “We are sacrificing as a cooperative because we feel for the drivers. If they don’t operate, they will have no salary,” Cabonita said. She added that a fuel subsidy would provide much-needed relief. “If we are not given assistance to survive, the time may come when we will be forced to reduce the number of units we operate,” she said.
Alternative to fare increase
TR ANSPORT groups said they prefer temporary fuel assistance instead of a fare hike, noting that higher fares would also burden commuters. Roberto Orilla, vice president of the Federation of Transport Cooperatives and chairperson of the Pitam-Pit Os Talamban Tra n s por t Cooperat ive, s a id many transport workers are already struggling to sustain daily operations. “Our transport workers are rea l ly fee l i ng t he pi nc h be cause diesel is the number one expense in daily operations,” Orilla said. He added that the proposed subsidy could serve as a temporary remedy for two to four months, until fuel prices stabilize. “If we raise fares now and fuel prices drop later, fares will also have to go down again. That’s why we think a fuel subsidy is the fairer solution for commuters and drivers,” he said. Meanwhile, Archival said the city government has also deployed two buses that will operate on limited routes during rush hours—Colon–Bulacao and Colon–Talamban—to help address passenger demand. Transport groups are expected to submit their lists and formal proposals to City Hall by the weekend, after which the city government will determine possible funding allocations for the proposed subsidy. dination with local government units. Binay also assured Makati tricycle drivers that the city government will work closely with national agencies to help facilitate the distribution of the subsidy to eligible beneficiaries. Recent ly, t he Ma k at i C it y Government also conducted barangay-based registration and renewal of tricycle franchises to make the process faster and more convenient for drivers. The initiative forms part of the city’s continuing efforts to bring government services closer to the people and support the livelihood of the transport sector.
News
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NTF-Elcac. . . Continued from A10
“The challenge before us is not to silence debate but to elevate it, and not to dismiss legitimate concerns with catchphrases like ‘redtagging,’” Torres further stressed. He urged both students and educators to ensure that academic spaces remain arenas for respectful but rigorous debate. “Students must feel free to express dissenting views without fear of intimidation, just as educators and resource persons must be able to raise legitimate concerns about recruitment and insurgent influence without being automatically accused of malicious labeling,” he pointed out. Torres said the NTF-Elcac will continue engaging universities with openness and respect as part of the broader effort to strengthen democratic dialogue and safeguard Filipino youth. “Our shared objective is to ensure that Filipino youth are equipped with truth, critical thinking, and opportunity,” he said. “They must not be drawn into conflicts that only prolong suffering and division.”
Saturday, March 14, 2026 A11
Lacson: Blue Ribbon door not closed to 18 ‘Ex-Marines,’ but affidavits must reflect credible math By Butch Fernandez
T
HE Senate Blue R ibbon Committee is not closing its doors to the 18 “ex-Marines” who claimed they delivered kickbacks to certain personalities - so long as their testimonies will reflect reality, Senate President Pro Tempore and Blue Ribbon panel Chairman Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson said on Friday. Lacson said that had the testimonies of the 18 fallen within the “realm of possibilities,” the Committee would have long invited them and listened to what they
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“Our interest in those mines transcend the taxes that we get because the minerals there are part of our strategic assets,” David told B usiness M irror in an interview at the
had to say. “While the Blue Ribbon Committee’s doors are not closed to them, they just need to correct their statements so the hearing does not turn into a circus,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino, in a radio interview. He had earlier meticulously presented the math on the claims of the marines, and concluded that the numbers they presented did not add up. Lacson said that while it cannot be denied that cash deliveries were made to certain beneficiaries in connection with alleged kickbacks from flood control projects, parts
of the initial claims of the 18 appeared outside the realm of possibility - including the P805 billion in total cash deliveries. Earlier, Lacson had pointed out not only the “impossibility” of involving such a massive amount, but also the logistical nightmare of handling the money and actually delivering them. He said he already urged lawyer Levito Baligod, who presented the 18 at a press conference at the Club Filipino last Feb. 24, to take the needed steps. “They must think about it carefully. They can retract their initial
statements and say they overlooked some details. The important thing is to bring their statements closer to reality so that the Blue Ribbon Committee will not be entertaining lies,” he said. “Just correct your affidavits and bring them closer to the truth, and I’ll call a hearing,” he added. “For now it is clear that parts of their statements are impossible, such as the P805 billion, which insults Filipinos’ intelligence.” Lacson reiterated the Blue Ribbon Committee’s intention is to expose the truth and not to expose lies, even as he reiterated
that “we will go where the evidence leads us.” “I maintain my position that we go where the evidence leads us. That will not change. Could there be stronger proof of this than the investigation having already implicated my fellow senators? That is why I cannot accept accusations that I am protecting personalities,” he said. Meanwhile, Lacson said the Blue Ribbon Committee’s partial committee report still needs five signatures before it can be filed. He said he plans to persuade more members of the majority bloc to sign it.
sidelines of the forum. He emphasized that critical minerals found abundant in the Philippines, such as nickel, cobalt, and copper, are essential for the global transition to renewable energy and digital infrastructure. Beyond national interest, David argued that harnessing these resources could
generate up to P1 trillion annually from water, forest land, and mining—potentially eliminating the country’s foreign debt. The executive order is also expected to introduce a “use it or lose it policy,” allowing the government to reclaim undeveloped mining assets, and to expand government-led exploration to fast-track strategic projects.
David noted that Canada and other allies could play a role in providing technology and expertise, particularly in tailings management and mineral processing. Th e P h i l i p p i n e s i s a g g re s s i ve l y positioning itself in the global critical minerals supply chain, courting Canadian investors for mineral processing while
backing a US-proposed multilateral agreement to stabilize global metal prices. The executive order is expected to strengthen the Philippines’ case for a Philippines-Canada Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and deepen bilateral ties at a time when both countries are seeking to diversify trade and secure supply chains.
TheWorld
A12 Saturday, March 14, 2026
Editor: Angel R. Calso
Trump, Iran leader strike defiant tone as oil markets see little relief T
Trump administration denounces CNN for airing messages from Iranian leaders
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By Courtney Subramanian & Jeff Mason
RESIDENT Donald Trump and Iran’s new supreme leader both struck defiant tones on the 13th day of the war, offering little relief to energy markets despite fresh US efforts to curb oil prices.
The American president said in a social media post Thursday that preventing Iran from having nuclear weapons and threatening the Middle East is “of far greater interest and importance to me” than the cost of oil. Mojtaba Khamenei said the Islamic Republic would seek to ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed. In his first public comments since succeeding his father, he added that Tehran would look to open other fronts in the war if the US and Israel persist with their attacks. Trump, in a Truth Social post late Thursday, warned Iran to “watch what happens” today. “We have unparalleled firepower, unlimited ammunition, and plenty of time,” he said. “Iran’s Navy is gone, their Air Force is no longer, missiles, drones and everything else are being decimated, and their leaders have been wiped from the face of the earth.”
Oil prices rose more than 9% on Thursday with Brent crude ending the session above $100 for the first time since August 2022. US crude futures also settled at the highest levels in more than three years. The blockage of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted millions of barrels a day of supply and caused what the International Energy Agency described as the biggest hit to global production on record. A series of moves from the Trump administration and other governments aimed at lowering energy costs also did little to dent oil’s rally. On Thursday evening, the US announced a second authorization for buyers to take Russian oil cargoes already at sea to help ease prices. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, in a social media post, said the move was designed to be a “narrowly tailored, short-term measure” that “applies only to oil already in transit and will not pro-
RESIDENTS and officers from Israel’s Home Front Command inspect a house destroyed by an Iranian missile strike in Zarzir, northern Israel, Friday, March 13, 2026. AP/ARIEL SCHALIT
vide significant financial benefit to the Russian government.” Although Trump has cited the overthrow of Iran’s leadership as a motive for the military campaign, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that there was no guarantee that the government that has ruled the country for 47 years would be toppled, even in its now weakened state. “A regime is ultimately brought down from within,” he told reporters in his first press briefing since the war began. There’s little sign that the war in the Middle East is anywhere close to a de-escalation after almost two weeks of clashes. Israel launched a fresh wave of large-scale strikes across Iran on Thursday, while the Islamic Republic stepped up
attacks on Dubai and shipping assets. French President Emmanuel Macron announced on X that one of his country’s soldiers had been killed during an attack in the Erbil region of Iraq. Macron added that several other French soldiers had been wounded. Seven US service members have died in the war. Also on Thursday, rescue operations were underway after a KC-135 refueling plane crashed in western Iraq. The episode involved another aircraft, which landed safely, according to a press release, which said “this was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire.” Iran has likely begun laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, UK Defense Secretary John Healey told reporters. Iran’s deputy foreign minister denied that his
country was doing so, according to the AFP. Three commercial vessels were struck in the Arabian Gulf in the past 24 hours, the UK Maritime Trade Operations said in a notice, highlighting the risk that maritime disruptions to transport are expanding. “Studies have been conducted into opening other fronts where the enemy has little experience and would be highly vulnerable, and their activation will take place if the state of war persists,” Khamenei said. The new supreme leader, a 56-year-old hardline cleric, was appointed after his father, Ali Khamenei, was killed in early US and Israeli attacks on Feb. 28. Iranian media had reported that the younger Khamenei had been injured. Trump said he thinks the new supreme leader is “damaged” but “alive in some form,” in an interview on FOX News Radio’s The Brian Kilmeade Show, while again hailing the performance of the US military. “We’ve knocked out most of their missiles. We’ve knocked out many of their drones. We knocked out a lot of the manufacturing areas where they manufacture the missiles and now the drones,” he said. “We’re hitting them harder than anybody’s been hit since World War II.” See “Trump,” A13
By David Bauder AP Media Writer
HE Trump administration denounced CNN on Thursday for airing a portion of the new Iranian supreme leader’s public statement, the second time in three days that he’s targeted the network for reporting on how the regime is responding to the American attacks. The attack illustrated the care news outlets must take in reporting during wartime, and the responsibilities of American journalists to report the perspective of countries its government views as enemies. It also exposed inconsistencies. The message of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei during his first public statement since he succeeded his father, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike, was widely available elsewhere. The White House said on social media that “fake news CNN just aired four straight minutes of uninterrupted Iranian state TV, run by the same psychotic and murderous regime that prided itself on brutally slaughtering Americans for 47 years.”
Earlier CNN interview criticized by Trump’s communications leader
TWO days earlier, White House communications director Steven Cheung took issue with CNN anchor Erin Burnett’s interview with Hossein Mousavian, a former Iranian nuclear negotiator. Burnett asked Mousavian what he had been hearing about the Iranian See “CNN,” A14
Trump reframes high gas prices as ‘good’ for US as Iran conflict shakes oil markets By Josh Boak
The Associated Press
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ASHINGTON—Since starting a war with Iran caused oil and gasoline prices to spike, President Donald Trump has pivoted from a focus on keeping energy prices low to trying to paint high oil prices as a positive. T he a b out - f a ce come s a s Trump’s team has struggled to offer a clear plan for opening up the critical Strait of Hormuz so that tankers full of oil and natural gas are no longer stranded—even as the administration took a series of decisions to try to quickly stabilize surging prices. “The United States is the largest Oil Producer in the World, by far, so when oil prices go up, we make a lot of money,” Trump said Thursday on his social media site. It was only last month, in his State of the Union address, that Trump had bragged about gas prices at $2.30 a gallon, a figure that has since soared more than 50% to a national average of $3.60 a gallon, according to AAA. The flip-flop shows Trump’s political interests at home are suddenly at odds with his desire to flex America’s muscles on the global stage. It comes at a precari-
ous time for Trump’s party, ahead of the November midterm elections. Trump has said that high gas prices helped him defeat his predecessor, Joe Biden. But he told reporters on Saturday that he had no worries about the rising costs that could influence voters this year, and create pressure for him to end the conflict prematurely. The investment bank Goldman Sachs on Thursday said that based on its forecasts and historic experience, higher oil prices would cause inflation to be higher, growth to be slower and the unemployment rate to increase by the end of the year.
A new move to add more Russian oil to the market
NORMALLY, about 20 million barrels of oil pass through the Strait of Hormuz each day, but most tankers are now avoiding it. Benchmark oil prices have swung violently with the uncertainty, and on Thursday the global crude oil benchmark price jumped to $100 a barrel. “The swings in Brent crude oil prices over the past several days are eye-catching and odds are volatility will remain because of the absence of a timeline for when the conflict will deescalate and when the Strait of Hormuz, which is effectively closed, will see traffic
PRESIDENT Donald Trump is seen in his limousine, known as “The Beast,” for the motorcade to the White House after his arrival on Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Wednesday, March 11, 2026. AP/LUIS M. ALVAREZ
begin to recover,” analysts at the consultancy Oxford Economics concluded on Wednesday. The president has given a series of contradictory messages about his plans to address this issue. He said in a Monday news conference that the Strait of Hormuz “is going to remain safe” well after it was identified as a danger zone, claiming that the presence of the US Navy and insurance for tankers would keep things secure. By Tuesday, he said on Truth Social that Iran would face “Military consequences” that would
be “at a level never seen before” if it placed mines in the Strait of Hormuz, later stressing that the US military was blowing up Iran’s mine-laying ships. On Wednesday, Trump’s Energy Secretary Chris Wright briefly posted that the US Navy had escorted a tanker through the strait—later deleting the false claim. Trump on Wednesday had said “the straits are in great shape” and said he thought oil companies should use them. But on Thursday, Wright could not provide a time-
line on when the US Navy might escort tankers through the strait. “It’ll happen relatively soon, but it can’t happen now,” Wright told CNBC. “We’re simply not ready. All of our military assets right now are focused on destroying Iran’s offensive capabilities.” Wright acknowledged the conflict was causing “a significant disruption” in short-term gas prices, but sought to emphasize the longterm benefits of an Iran that no longer poses a threat to the US and Middle Eastern nations. Late on Thursday, the Treasury Department announced that it would take another step to free up Russian oil stranded on tankers at sea due to US sanctions for its war on Ukraine, granting a license to waive those sanctions for a month. That builds on a move last week to give India temporary permission to buy Russian oil. The move follows the Trump administration granting temporary permission for India to buy Russian oil. Last week, analysts estimated there were about 125 million barrels loaded on tankers at sea. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent posted on X that the expanded waiver was a “narrowly tailored, short-term measure” that would “not provide significant financial
benefit to the Russian government, which derives the majority of its energy revenue from taxes assessed at the point of extraction.”
Trump also changed his mind on strategic reserves
EARLIER on Thursday, the White House said it was looking at waiving Jones Act requirements to use US-flagged ships to move goods between US ports, a temporary move that White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said could “ensure vital energy products and agricultural necessities are flowing freely to US ports.” T h at fol lo w e d a s h i f t on Wednesday, when Trump said the US would join with other countries and release oil to lower prices. He had initially downplayed the need to tap strategic reserves. The coordinated release among countries is unlikely to bring down oil prices, so much as stabilize the market. “Such a move will slow rather than stop rising oil prices and offer a temporary salve to the searing burn of rising gasoline prices,” said Joe Brusuelas, chief US economist at the consultancy RSM. The Associated Press writers Collin Binkley, Aamer Madhani and Fatima Hussein contributed to this report.
TheWorld
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Saturday, March 14, 2026 A13
Iran war disrupts energy supplies as new supreme leader resolves to keep fighting By Jon Gambrell, Ghaya Ben Mbarek, Sarah El Deeb & Julie Watson The Associated Press
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UBAI, United Arab Emirates— Iran’s secretive new leader issued his first public statements Thursday, resolving to keep fighting, promising more pain for Gulf Arab states and threatening to open “other fronts” in a war that has already disrupted world energy supplies, the global economy and international travel. Early Friday, US President Donald Trump issued a new threat online to Iran, writing: “Watch what happens to these deranged scumbags today.” Trump tallied the damage inflicted on Iran and its leaders and called it a “great honor” to be responsible for it. The remarks by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei came as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his country’s attacks were creating conditions for the Iranian population to topple the government. “It is in your hands,” Netanyahu said at a news conference, addressing the Iranian people. “We are creating the optimal conditions for the fall of the regime.” Since the start of the war, US and Israeli strikes have targeted security checkpoints in Iran to undermine the government’s ability to suppress dissent, according to Armed Conflict Location and Event Data, the US-based independent monitoring group known as ACLED. Intense airstrikes hit early Friday around Iran’s capital, Tehran, as well as outlying areas. It was not immediately clear what had been targeted.
Netanyahu denounces Iranian leader NETAN YAHU
denounced
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Dubai authorities reported at least two strikes Thursday morning after residents received missile alerts overnight, underlining the threat to the financial and tourist hub long seen as a safe haven. Kuwait reported several drones fired at its international airport, resulting in material damages. US officials told lawmakers that the first six days of the war with Iran cost more than $11.3 billion, a person familiar with the matter said, in the most detailed assessment yet of campaign’s expense. The US and Israel have been attacking Iran with airstrikes since
Khamenei as a “puppet of the Revolutionary Guards.” Khamenei is close to Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard and is widely seen as even less compromising than his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Khamenei said in a statement read by a state TV news anchor that he was keeping a “file of revenge.” He did not appear on camera and has not been seen since his father and wife were killed in the war’s opening salvo, which also wounded him, according to an Iranian ambassador.
Oil prices spiral again and stocks sink
THE war continued to escalate on its 13th day as oil prices spiraled up again to $100 per barrel, and stocks sank worldwide over fears that the conflict could drag on longer than hoped. To relieve the surge in prices, the US Treasury Department announced it was further easing sanctions on Russian oil by granting a license that authorizes the delivery and sale of some Russian crude oil and petroleum products for the next month. Trump signaled earlier this week that he would take more action to address the squeeze on oil flows. The move follows the administration’s decision to grant Feb. 28. US Central Command reported about 6,000 targets struck since the start of military operations. Tehran has responded with missiles and drones fired across the Gulf. Besides jolting energy and financial markets, the conflict has resulted in thousands of flight cancellations and disrupted the flows of fertilizer and other goods. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the military is preparing to expand its operations in Lebanon, where it’s been fighting a parallel campaign against the Iran-aligned Hezbollah militia. Around 2,500 people have been killed across the Middle East since the war began, official tolls and those from non-government agencies show.
temporary permission for India to buy Russian oil. The new exemption applies only to Russian oil already at sea. Last week, analysts estimated there were about 125 million barrels loaded on tankers. To put that in perspective, about 20 million barrels of oil per day usually pass through the Strait of Hormuz, according to the International Energy Agency. Iran has made clear it plans to keep up attacks on energy infrastructure across the region and use the effective closure of the strait as leverage against the United States and Israel. A fifth of the world’s traded oil flows through the waterway leading from the Persian Gulf toward the Indian Ocean. At a news conference Thursday, Iran’s ambassador to Tunisia, Mir Masoud Hosseinian, said Iranian naval forces “have established full control” over the strait and “carried out precise strikes in response to attacks on our oil infrastructure.” “Global energy security is contingent on respect for Iran’s sovereignty,” he said. The pinch was being felt worldwide. South Korea reinstated government-set caps on oil prices for the first time in three decades as it sought to calm soaring fuel costs. The two-week caps, which took effect Friday, set maximum prices for petroleum products supplied by refiners to gas stations and other businesses.
Iranian leader calls for the shutdown of US bases
HOSSEINIAN told The Associated Press the new supreme leader was wounded in the attack on his family’s home, but “it is not serious.” The hope is he will attend the massive, state-organized Eid prayer next week that his father traditionally led. However, Khamenei remains a target for the Israelis, who have vowed to kill him. Hosseinian said Iran’s strikes on Gulf nations have been strategic. “Even when we targeted hotels, we had precise information that they were hosting American and Israeli soldiers,” he said. The Strait of Hormuz—through which about a fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas flows—has been all but impassable since the opening salvos of the war. Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates all have had to curb crude production. Ports in Oman and on the UAE’s east coast—both outside the narrow waterway—are being used as emergency gateways for goods bound for the region. The US Navy could start escorting tankers through the strait by the end of this month, Energy Secretary Chris Wright said. The International Energy Agency warned on Thursday that the current oil supply disruption is the largest in the history of the
six soldiers had been hurt in a drone strike in Irbil, where French troops are deployed as part of a multinational counterterrorism mission supporting Iraqi forces in their fight against Islamic State militants. In the same region, British officials said several US personnel suffered minor injuries Wednesday when drone strikes hit a base in Irbil that houses both British and American troops. And on Thursday in western Iraq, rescue efforts were underway after an American military refueling plane went down. US Central Command, which oversees the Middle East, said in a statement that two aircraft were involved, including one that landed safely, and that the cause was not related to friendly or hostile fire.
Israel targets heart of Beirut in fight with Hezbollah militants
AN oil tanker burns after being hit by an Iranian strike in the ship-to-ship transfer zone at Khor al-Zubair port near Basra, Iraq, late Wednesday, March 11, 2026. AP PHOTO
Khamenei called on Gulf Arabs to “shut down” US bases in the region, saying protection promised by Washington was “nothing more than a lie.” He also said Iran has studied “opening other fronts in which the enemy has little experience and would be highly vulnerable” if the war continues. He did not elaborate, but Iran has been linked to previous attacks on US, Israeli and Jewish targets around the world. Attacks on Gulf states continued Friday with Saudi Arabia’s defense ministry saying its air defenses downed more than three dozen drones headed toward the kingdom’s Eastern Province over the span of a few hours, marking an unusually large barrage.
a higher priority than soaring oil prices. Hours later, Netanyahu announced Israeli attacks had killed a top Iranian nuclear scientist and hit others but gave few details. Israel said earlier it struck a nuclear facility in Iran in recent days that it had destroyed with an airstrike in October 2024. Earlier this year, satellite photos raised concerns that Iran was working to restore the facility.
France says soldier killed in attack in Iraq
TRUMP said in a social media post Thursday that ensuring Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon was
THE US militar y said American forces have now struck more than 6,000 targets since the operation against Iran began, including more than 30 minelaying vessels. On Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron said a French soldier was killed in an attack targeting Irbil in Iraq’s northern Kurdish region. France earlier said
oil market, underscoring days of wild price swings. The war has hit 7.5% of global output and an even bigger swath of exports, it said. Back-channel talks between Tehran and US allies are nowhere close to finding a way to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, people familiar with the matter said. “There’s no plan, there’s no endgame” for the US-Israeli campaign, Richard Dalton, former UK ambassador to Iran, told Bloomberg Radio. “It appears that as the ripples spread, the United States is losing control.” US adversaries have shown deepening ties as the war continues to widen. Russia is providing Iran with various forms of intelligence—including satellite imag-
ery and drone targeting tactics— in an effort to help Iran hit back, according to people familiar with US and Western intelligence. On Wednesday, Trump tried to reassure Americans and traders about energy prices, saying a massive release of a record 400 million barrels in emergency oil reserves approved by the IEA would ease price pressures. His comments and the announcement of the release did little to calm volatile markets. The US national average cost for a gallon of gasoline is at $3.60, its highest since May 2024, American Automobile Association data show. At least 1,825 Iranians have been killed so far, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency. As many as 3.2 million
Iran’s nuclear program takes more hits
ISR AELI warplanes pummeled Lebanon, targeting even the busy heart of Beirut, in response to missiles from Iran-backed Hezbollah fighters launched into Israel. One strike hit in a neighborhood that is close to Lebanon’s parliament, United Nations offices and international embassies. Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee said forces were targeting a “facility affiliated with Hezbollah.” An Israeli strike hit in the vicinity of Lebanon’s only public university, killing a professor and the director of the science faculty at the campus in Hadath, on the outskirts of Beirut’s southern suburbs. There was no immediate comment from Israel. Israeli strikes also killed 15 other people, including five children, in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese Health Ministry said. An AP photographer saw several buildings flattened in one village where rescue workers searched through the rubble. Ben Mbarek reported from Tunis, Tunisia. El Deeb reported from Beirut. Watson reported from San Diego. Associated Press writers from around the world contributed to this report.
Iranians have been temporarily displaced, the UN’s refugee agency said on X. About 47,000 American citizens have returned to the US since Feb. 28, the State Department said Thursday. There have been several deaths in Gulf countries and Israel. And 634 people have been killed by Israeli strikes in Lebanon, which began on March 2, the Lebanese state-run National News Agency said. The Israeli military said that command posts of the militant group Hezbollah had been hit, Agence France-Presse reported on Thursday. With assistance from John Bowker, Eric Martin, Devika Krishna Kumar, Romy Varghese, Laura Davison, Michael Heath and Jon Herskovitz/Bloomberg
A14 Saturday, March 14, 2026
TheWorld
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Democratic senators file war powers resolution to check Trump on Cuba By Stephen Groves
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The Associated Press
ASHINGTON—Senate Democrats have filed legislation that would prevent the US from attacking Cuba without congressional approval as they seek to force a vote on President Donald Trump’s stated goal of a “takeover” of the Caribbean country.
Democrats have repeatedly used war powers resolutions to force debate on Trump’s foreign policy moves, though Republicans have so far mostly backed the president. The resolution filed Thursday by Democratic Sens. Tim Kaine, Ruben Gallego and Adam Schiff would require the president to remove the military from any hostilities with Cuba and could potentially receive a vote by the end of the month. “Only Congress has the power to declare war under the Constitution, but he operates with the belief that the US military is a palace guard, ordering military action in the Caribbean, Venezuela, and Iran without Congress’ authorization or any explanation for his actions to the American people,” Kaine said in a statement. Trump said earlier this week that Secretary of State Marco Rubio was negotiating with Cuba’s leadership as the country faces a crippling energy crisis that has been exacerbated by a US blockade of the island.
CNN. . . Continued from A12
government’s interest in having talks with the United States. There wasn’t much, he said. “Ever notice how CNN just regurgitates quotes and unverified information from Iranian terrorists?” Cheung wrote on X. “Total disgrace. They have become the murderous Iranian Regime’s version of Pravda,” he said, referring to the official newspaper of the former Soviet Union. CNN did not address Cheung’s statement but did respond to the White House attack on Thursday. It noted that CNN, Sky News and Al Jazeera also showed portions of the ayatollah’s statement live. “The world is watching with anticipation which direction this war will take,” CNN said. “Purported remarks from Iran’s new supreme leader are a critical component in helping audiences understand where this conf lict is heading and were aired for their obvious news value.” Other news outlets, including The Associated Press, sent out alerts on what Khamenei said. His vow to keep up attacks on other Arab countries in the region and plans to choke off the world’s oil supply were headlines. The New York Times led its website with a story on the speech in its immedi-
SEN. Tim Kaine, D-Va., speaks during a press briefing on the Iran war powers resolution at the Capitol, March 9, 2026, in Washington. AP/ROD LAMKEY, JR.
“It may be a friendly takeover, it may not be a friendly takeover,” Trump told reporters this week at a news conference in Florida. He added that he and Rubio would focus on that goal after the war with Iran. The US for decades has had a
tense relationship with Cuba, but Trump’s turn to using military action to take out foreign opponents has raised anticipations that the island could be next. Rubio, whose family immigrated to the US from Cuba in the 1950s, has long pushed for the US to aggressively oppose
ate aftermath, later writing that the speech “was an early indication of how the new supreme leader would approach the war, as well as how he would lead the country.” CNN has long been a favored target of President Donald Trump, dating back to his first term. It’s a particularly vulnerable time for the network with Paramount Global’s agreement to purchase CNN’s parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery, raising questions about its future editorial independence. CNN showed a news anchor reading a portion of Khameini’s remarks in Farsi, with an English translation. It did not air them in full. After the speech, correspondent Nick Paton Walsh gave a debrief to anchor Kate Bolduan, noting how the non-appearance of the leader — reportedly injured in an air attack — was as important
as what he said. “We were waiting to see the face of the man to have proof of his health and survival,” Walsh said, “and they’ve not met that moment. Instead, a handwritten message, it seems, that mostly reiterates things we kind of already knew.”
A social media message board for Iran’s point of view
THE Tech Transparency Project has reported that several Iranian leaders and institutions maintain verified accounts on X, formerly Twitter, owned by Trump ally Elon Musk. CNBC said Thursday that Khamenei has one of them, and an X account with his portrait posted the text of his remarks, available in Farsi and in an English translation. Even though Khamenei’s father is dead, an account with his portrait was active on Thursday,
MOJTABA KHAMENEI, the son of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, center, attends the annual Quds, or Jerusalem Day, rally in Tehran, Iran, May 31, 2019. AP/VAHID SALEMI
the Caribbean nation’s leadership. Rubio told senators earlier this year that the Trump administration would “love” to see a Cuban regime change, but cautioned that “does not mean we are going to provoke it directly.” Republicans in Congress have mostly stood behind the Trump administration’s aggressive foreign policy However, Democrats have turned repeatedly to war powers resolutions in order to force debates over how Trump can use military force in foreign nations. They have not succeeded in passing any of the resolutions so far, but the tactic at times has compelled the Trump administration to explain its goals to Congress. Democrats are also planning next week to potentially force votes on a series of war powers resolutions that apply to Iran unless Republicans agree to hold public hearings on the conflict. “He ran on America First, but now it’s clear he’s become a puppet of the war hawks in his party,” Gallego said in a statement.
mainly reposting messages from his son. “The revenge we have in mind is not just because of the martyrdom of the illustrious Leader of the Revolution,” read one message posted Thursday. “Every member of the nation martyred by the enemy is a separate case that demands we seek revenge.” X is officially blocked in Iran, though many use a virtual private network to bypass restrictions. A message sent to the platform on Thursday was not immediately returned. There’s a long history of journalists seeking interviews with world leaders, even when they are regarded as enemies of the United States. Most notable was “60 Minutes” correspondent Mike Wallace’s interview with Iran’s Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1979, when that country was holding Americans hostage. Thursday’s remarks by Iran’s new supreme leader were absolutely newsworthy and legitimate for CNN to air them, said Jane Ferguson, a veteran international correspondent and founder of the journalism platform Noosphere. It’s not the job of government leaders to pick apart what CNN is reporting, she said. AP correspondent Barbara Ortutay in San Francisco contributed to this report. David Bauder writes about the intersection of media and entertainment for the AP.
TheWorld
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Saturday, March 14, 2026 A15
Four extreme systems converge: Blizzard, polar vortex, heat dome, atmospheric river batter US By SETH BORENSTEIN AP Science Writer
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EARLY every part of the United States is getting walloped by wild weather or just about to be. Days of downpours have begun in Hawaii. The Southwest will soon bake with day after day of record 100-degree-plus (38 Celsius-plus) heat. Two storms will dump snow by the foot over northern Great Lakes states. And the dreaded polar vortex will again invade the Midwest and East with soul-crushing Arctic chill. This forecast of extremes comes as weather whiplash already hit much of the East. On Wednesday, Washington, D.C. residents walked around in shorts in recordbreaking 86 degrees Fahrenheit (about 30 Celsius). On Thursday, it snowed. “All of the country, even if you’re not necessarily seeing extremes, are going to see generally changing from cold to warm, or warm to cold to warm,” said meteorologist Marc Chenard of the weather ser vice’s Weather Prediction Center in Maryland. Former National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration chief scientist Ryan Maue said he expects extreme weather in all 50 states.
Triple-digit heat persists in Southwest
A HEAT dome will form early next week and park over the Southwest, baking temperatures to triple digits that haven’t been seen this early in the year, Maue and Chenard said. Some forecasts see 98 (almost 37 Celsius) in Phoenix on Tuesday, followed by 103, 105 and two days of 107 (almost 42 C). In 137 years of record-keeping, Phoenix never hit 100 before March 26 and usually hit its first 100-degree day in early May, according to the weather service, which warned people: “Since we are not acclimated to this level of heat this early in the year, it will be more
impactful than usual.” It has already started in Los Angeles with unusual 90-degree March weather that had people in shorts and tank tops seeking shade anywhere they could get it, even if it was as slender as a light post. Shane Dixon, 40, usually runs about 5 miles near his home in Culver City without much effort, he said, his face glistening with sweat and his T-shirt tucked into his shorts. But Thursday was hard because of the heat, and he had to cut it short. “The back of my neck was melting,” he said. But he preferred it to the cold and snow that will hit elsewhere. “I could go literally soak myself and walk out in the sun and I’ll make it home fine. If it was freezing cold I could not do this,” he said.
Single-digit cold invades North
AROUND the same time as the heat starts blasting Phoenix, the polar vortex—a system that usually keeps frigid air penned up near the Nor th Pole —is forecast to send its chill deep into the Midwest and East, even bordering some of the Southeast, Maue said Minneapolis will hover around zero for a low, and Chicago will be in the single digits Tuesday. The next day “temperatures in the teens and 20s in the northeast and 20s in the Mid-Atlantic,” Maue said. Even Atlanta could drop to the 20s.
One-two snowstorm punch
TWO storm systems in a row—one Friday, then another Sunday into Monday—will chug along the country’s northern tier and Great Lakes and between them could dump 3 to 4 feet of snow in places, Maue said. That bigger second storm system will see its barometric pressure drop so quickly and sharply—meaning it is intensifying and winds are strengthening—that it will qualify as a bomb cyclone, which is quite unusual to develop over land. Normally bomb cyclones get their energy from warm
ocean waters, but this one will draw power from the polar vortex.
Even Alaska and Hawaii aren’t quite right
MAUE said Hawaii is getting an atmospheric river that will have such persistent heavy rain that flooding will be a major issue. Oahu is under a flash flood warning. And Alaska is normally frigid now, but it will be about 30 degrees colder than usual, he said. It is “the time of year where we can see stuff like this,” Chenard said. “But this does seem even anomalous from what you would typically see. I mean, some of these areas will be setting records. Record-high temperatures for March and maybe multiple times.” In the past week or so, tornadoes have killed at least eight people in Oklahoma, Michiganand Indiana. The forecast for severe storms doesn’t look as big or widespread for the next week,
but dangerous thunderstorms could pop up “anywhere from the Mississippi Valley toward the East Coast” on Sunday or Monday, Chenard said.
The jet stream goes nuts
UNDERLYING this is a jet stream gone wild, Maue and Chenard said. The jet stream is the river of air that moves weather from west to east on a rollercoaster-like path. Usually, the plunges are as mild as a kiddie roller coaster. But now that jet stream is going on near-vertical, scream-inducing drops following by straight-up ascents. “Which means you get a lot of extremes next to each other,” Maue said. Storm fronts coming from the Pacific hit that high pressure heat dome in the Southwest and are pushed north to climb that mountainous jet stream peak, “grab access to that cold air reservoir up there” and bring it back down south down the other side of the hill, he said. Numerous studies have connected
unusual jet stream and polar vortex activity to shrinking Arctic sea ice and humancaused climate change. But there is hope. “The first day of spring is 20th (of
March), and then after that we get recovery,” Maue said. The Associated Press writer Dorany Pineda contributed from Los Angeles.
A16 Saturday, March 14, 2026 | Editor: Jun Lomibao
Sports BusinessMirror
mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph
No apologies from Coach Spo on Bam’s 83 pts M
IAMI—Erik Spoelstra had a very clear message to those who didn’t like how the final minutes of Bam Adebayo’s 83-point game played out. Put simply, the Miami Heat coach doesn’t care. “I apologize to absolutely no one,” Spoelstra said Thursday. “Period.” Adebayo’s 83-point game—now the No. 2 single-game total in National Basketball Association (NBA) history, 17 behind Wilt Chamberlain’s 100 and two ahead of Kobe Bryant’s 81—was one unlike any other. The Heat center took 43 shots in a 150-129 win on Tuesday over the Washington Wizards, made an NBArecord 36 free throws and had an NBArecord 43 tries from the foul line. And the last few minutes Tuesday were a circus, with the Wizards as much as quadruple-teaming Adebayo—who was still getting the ball—and the Heat fouling Washington players on four occasions in the final moments to extend the game and get their center more opportunities to score. Adebayo said he didn’t see a double-team from the Wizards until the fourth quarter, when he already was up to 70 points. His takeaway: Blame the Wizards for him getting on the roll of a lifetime. “I’ve got 70 with, what, nine minutes left to go in the game? You think I’m not going for it?... Who would be like, ‘You know, coach, just take me out.’ Yeah, right,” Adebayo said. “You can’t be mad at that. If you are mad, I don’t care. Because a lot of people, if they did play, they never had a chance to get that close to chasing greatness. And if you get that close to chasing greatness, that’s the point of chasing it—so you can surpass it.” Lost in the hubbub about the final minutes, Spoelstra insisted, is this: Adebayo had 31 points in the first
quarter, 43 by halftime, 62 through three quarters, 70 with 9:05 left and 77 with 3:26 remaining. The first instance of Miami fouling to get the ball back for Adebayo was with 1:40 left. “There was a moment, and when there’s a moment in time like that, it’s carpe diem,” Spoelstra said, using the Latin term for “seize the day.” “You have to go for it, and that was just thrilling. And I’m honored that we were all able to be a part of it.” A handful of coaches around the NBA—including the Los Angeles Clippers’ Tyronn Lue and Denver’s David Adelman among them— have indicated they had no problem with the Heat using the final minutes to help add to what was already an enormous point total. Adelman said Adebayo is as good of a professional as there is in the league, and to take a night “and go a little bit crazy” was entertaining. “He made the extra pass in the fourth quarter when he had 60. He blocked a shot. He was still playing the game,” Adelman said. “When you get to 70, I’m sorry, man, like all bets are off.... I thought it was really cool.” Wizards coach Brian Keefe didn’t seem thrilled Tuesday with how the last few minutes went. On Thursday in Orlando, before his team played the Magic, Keefe didn’t reminisce.
“We’re focused on today,” Keefe said. Spoelstra said he spoke with Adebayo before the game about a need to have some urgency. The Heat played with several of their top players— Norman Powell, Tyler Herro, Andrew Wiggins and Kel’el Ware among them— out of that game with injuries. “It’s a Tuesday night game against a team where they’re not playing for anything, where their organization is trying to lose,” Spoelstra said. “We’ve already lost a game in that kind of situation.... I spoke to Bam about I want, as our best player and team captain, for him to be locked in and ready. And, he sure was.” He was referring to how the Heat lost a game to Utah last month, a matchup in which the Jazz—who keep their first round pick this year if it’s in the top eight of the draft—held out some of their top players in the
L
You know, somebody started talking to me, so that woke me up.” Doncic would not disclose what was said by Buzelis, a second-year forward, because, “I would say that I would definitely get a tech.” Buzelis was asked if learned any lessons from his exchange with Doncic. “Probably not to talk to him,” Buzelis said. It wasn’t like Doncic needed any extra inspiration, either. The National Basketball Association scoring leader got off to a strong start with 12 points in the first quarter
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Travellers International Hotel Group, CWC and Peerless/Champion. Evo Energi and Go Prime Technology are Diamond sponsors. Gold sponsors include GG&A, Ascent Dev. Const., Big BMK Distribution, Handling Innovation, Peregrine Eye & Laser Institute, Rombe Phils., BellCorp, GolfX and Paragon Trading & Services. Other backers are Cibelles Insurance and Ninno Rios plus 608, ACCLI, Ayala Land Premier, Rep. Brian Yamsuan, Atty. Chito Cruz, Don Lee Builders, Double LND Manpower, Relaxamento, Friends of 608, G&W Clubshares, Hyundai Elevator Services, Highlands Prime Inc., Arlo Aluminum, Mikey & Angela Arroyo, Oriental and Motolite, Powerball Marketing, PGA Clubshares, Rebisco, Run Run, Security Bank, Yakiniku Like, SM Prime, Smash Factor, Stradcom, Specialists Clubshares & Brokers, Metro Megamix Concrete, San Marino and Bistro Primos.
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HEAD coach Erik Spoelstra hugs center Bam Adebayo as he leaves the game after scoring 83 points against the Washington Wizards Tuesday in Miami. AP fourth quarter and won anyway. “I’ve seen people say you’ve got to be a purist. I’m a Darwinist in this league,” Spoelstra said. “Really, you can do anything you want in this game. You can approach it however you want.... There’s nothing wrong with what they’re doing. If you can tank and get a great draft pick, I don’t care. You could do anything in this league. You can approach it however you want.” Spoelstra acknowledged that leaving Adebayo in toward the end of
O SHAI GILGEOUS-ALEXANDER goes to the basket against Boston guard Payton Pritchard. AP
and had another 12 in the second by making 5 of 6 shots from the field once Buzelis decided to get garrulous. Doncic ripped off 17 points in the third quarter before notching 10 points on just four field goal attempts in the fourth. He finished 17 of 31 from the field, going 9 of 14 from 3, and 8 for 9 on free throws. AP
a decided game—Adebayo checked out for good with 1:08 left—was unusual, and it was. He also said memorable moments are “what our fans want to see” and that “a really magical night just appeared out of nowhere.” In his mind, that doesn’t merit any apologies. “It doesn’t take away anything from our organization, how we feel about Bam, how special that night was,” Spoelstra said. “Our fan base is electrified by this moment.” AP
KLAHOMA CITY—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander reacted to his latest individual accomplishment the way he always does: by deflecting credit and pointing to team goals. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard broke Wilt Chamberlain’s record for consecutive games with 20 points or more, extending his streak to 127 on Thursday night. Most important to GilgeousAlexander, the defending champion Thunder are 103-24 during the run. He finished with 35 points and nine assists on Thursday as the Thunder beat the Boston Celtics, 104-102. “The streak is the streak, the awards are the awards,” he said. “But the thing I’m most proud of is winning.” Gilgeous-Alexander hit two free throws in the third quarter to reach 19 points. With fans on their feet, GilgeousAlexander pump-faked several times and drilled a jumper over Baylor Scheierman from beyond the freethrow line with 7:04 left in the period to push his total to 21. He said he kept up with his totals as a younger player, but not anymore. He learned how close he was by listening to the fans. “I didn’t know exactly how many,” he said of his point total right before
he set the record. “But once I heard the crowd, I was like, ‘OK.’” Chamberlain’s record had stood since 1963, and early on, it looked like GilgeousAlexander might struggle to break it. He didn›t score until halfway through the first quarter, but he had 10 points by the end of the period and 17 at halftime. Gilgeous-Alexander won his first MVP award last season, and his consistency could lead to a repeat. He won the scoring title last season and ranks second in scoring this year. Oklahoma City has the league’s best record. Coach Mark Daigneault credited Gilgeous-Alexander for staying focused. “Surgical in his craft,” he said. “No one is more precise with their craft than he is. Number 2, the whole life of the streak has not prevented us from having a ton of team success and hasn’t prevented his teammates from having success either. So an individual streak that’s about scoring has not come at the expense of the team or his teammates.” Chamberlain scored at least 20 in 126 straight games from 1961 to 1963. He had 20 or more in every game of the 1961-62 season for the Philadelphia Warriors, which included his record 100-point game in 1962. Chamberlain’s streak ended on Jan. 20, 1963, when he was ejected after just four minutes for the San Francisco Warriors against the St. Louis Hawks. AP
Arida’s beauty, pickleball queen with 2 gold medals in Cebu tilt
Jorge, Young ace big time in WW AOUL JORGE and Samuel Young nailed holes-in-one in the ongoing 35th Bill Shaw Golf Classic at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club. Jorge made his ace at No. 11 of the West course and stands to win a BMW 520i, while Young got his at No. 8 of the same course for a Get Go golf cart. Still up for grab are Toyota Ativ Hybrid, Lynk & Co. 06 sedan, Ogawa massage chair, Gransportivo golf cart, Chery Tiggo Cross, Mercedes-Benz GLC and C-Class, BMW Motorcycle, Mitsubishi Expander, Jetour X50, Geely EX5 EM-I, Foton Wonder, P100,000 cash and P100,000 worth of K&G products. Shell, San Miguel Corp., Luxe Organix, South Links Estate, Beyond Sight, Yakult and Boysen are presenting the four-day event alongside New Golden City Builders, Armored Panda by King Panda, Newport World Resort/
By Josef Ramos
SGA this time surpasses Wilt’s consecutive 20-pt game record
Doncic turns trash talk into 50 points with Lakers OS ANGELES—Luka Doncic doesn’t need an excuse to pile on points, so when Chicago guard Matas Buzelis started jawing with him Thursday night, it became the fuel for his first 50-point game with the Los Angeles Lakers. Doncic turned what he called unprovoked trash talk from Buzelis into 51 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists in the Lakers’ 142-130 victory. “It always feels special,” Doncic said after his eighth career 50-point game. “I obviously haven’t had a 50-point game in a year, so it was very special. I mean, in the second quarter, I kind of felt it.
Obiena targets podium at world indoors in Torun
A LUKA DONCIC’S ability to direct unsporting words or deeds of opponents into his own game is a “unique trait.” AP
RIELLA ARIDA proved that beauty and sporting excellence can go hand in hand as she captured two gold medals in the Kosmas Pickle Fest 2026 Adult Categories at the Net and Paddle courts in Cebu City on Thursday. The former Miss Universe
Philippines teamed up with Sherry Cu to defeat Chatty May and June Andrea Gonzales, 11-7, and capture the women’s doubles 35+ crown. Displaying soft hands in dink exchanges and sharp reflexes in volley battles, the pair controlled the nonvolley zone, patiently constructing points before sealing them with crisp put-away volleys. Arida returned to the court later with Christian Andres and completed a golden double by beating Cu and Marc Tagle, 1510, in the mixed doubles 35+ final.
RNEST JOHN “EJ” OBIENA targets the podium at the 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Poland to add to his growing collection of medals that includes his first gold at the Asian indoors in Tianjin early last month. Obiena is hoping to keep the momentum from his gold medalclinching performance at the ISTAF Indoor in Berlin six days ago when he competes at the worlds set March 20 to 22 at the Kujawsko-Pomorska Arena in Torun. “This is my second time to compete in the world indoor championships and I’m hoping to sustain my last performance in Berlin to accomplish a podium finish in Poland,” Obiena said. “I’m all good so far.” Obiena qualified for the world indoors as the world’s No. 12 in men’s pole vault. Three other Filipino athletes— Southeast Asian Games champion and world No. 36 Cabang Tolentino in men’s 60 meters hurdles and Jessica Laurence and Zion Corrales Nelson in women’s 60 meters—will also be in Torun, according to Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association secretary-general Jasper Tanhueco. Obiena, 32, won gold in Berlin at 5.78 meters and he’s focused on maintaining or bettering that height as he trains in Tallinn in Estonia for the worlds. “I will be facing the usual guys at the worlds and l’ll just do what I must do...do my best to win,” said Obiena, referring to three-time world indoor champion and Olympic and world record holder Armand Duplantis and Emmanouil Karalis, who ruled the Greek indoors at 6.17 meters last February 28 to become the secondhighest vaulter in history after the Swede wonder Duplantis (6.31m). Obiena won his first Asian indoor title at 5.70 meters in Tianjin last February 7 to add to his world championships silver in Budapest 2023 and gold medals at the Asian Games in Hangzhou 2023, Asian championships (three) and Southeast Asian Games (four). He finished ninth at 5.56m at the 2024 world indoors in Glasgow but didn’t qualify for last year’s edition in Nanjing Laurence, 22, and Corrales-Nelson, 27, meanwhile, made the world indoor stage as the world’s No. 45 and 47, respectively.
ARIELLA ARIDA in action in Cebu City. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO The Alaminos (Laguna) beauty, who started playing pickleball three years ago, was one of only two players to bag multiple gold medals in the five-day tournament organized by Kosmas Athletic Ventures Corp. and Sunrise Events Inc. Christian Espinosa matched Arida’s feat—he teamed up with Jahleel Plasabas to rout John Paul Juaton and Benjohn Juaton, 15-2, in the men’s doubles 20+ final and partnered with Mary Seiw Yee to beat Janlady Fuentes and Dan Galang, 15-6, in the mixed doubles 20+ championship.
3x3 champions Women’s Basketball League (WBL) Commissioner Mario Montiel (left) joins
(from left) Chiang Kai Shek College coach Cristina Dela Cruz and players Irish Joyce De Guzman, Lorie Jane Araza, Junia Madison Raymundo and Alyanna Techico during the presentation of the WBL 3x3 13-under championship trophy last weekend. With them are Monica Jorge, executive director of the Basketball Efficiency Scientific Training Center Sports Inc. and coach Diana Sy. WBL PHOTO