“severity” and “persistence” of oil price shocks will shape the central bank’s monetary policy decisions in the next few quarters, according to an official of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
and fertilizer costs, adding pressure on food systems across Asia and the Pacific.
ADB President Masato Kanda said the region is already facing mounting challenges from climate change and natural disasters, with geopolitical tensions adding another layer of uncertainty to food production and distribution.
“We are facing a perfect storm of climate shocks, water stress,
land degradation, biodiversity loss, and volatile food prices. Indeed, this could be exacerbated by the conflict in the Middle East, which drives up energy costs, fertilizers, shortages. It is a really difficult time,” Kanda said during the 2026 Asia and Pacific Food Systems Forum held at the ADB Headquarters in Mandaluyong.
The warning comes as the region continues to grapple with structural weaknesses in its food systems, which are estimated to cost the global economy about $12 trillion annually.
From 2022 to 2025, ADB deployed over $14 billion to cushion
the impact of food price volatility and climate-related risks, reaching more than 63 million farmers and generating over 500,000 jobs across Asia and the Pacific.
However, Kanda said these efforts remain insufficient to address deeper, interconnected challenges affecting food production, supply chains, and access to nutrition. He noted that gaps across water management, land use, financing and market access continue to limit the effectiveness of interventions, underscoring the need for more coordinated approaches.
Kanda also stressed that public financing alone will not be enough
to transform food systems at scale, calling for stronger private sector participation. “We need the scale, the innovation, and the speed of the private sector. The private sector must be part of the solution,” he said. ADB has been ramping up the use of blended finance and risksharing mechanisms to attract private capital into agriculture, food logistics and rural enterprises, particularly in climate-resilient investments and value chains.
The bank said it will provide an additional $26 billion in food security financing from 2026 to 2030,
“And
principle, providing subsidies and cash aid should temper the impact on consumers,” Oplas told the BusinessMirror Recent fare adjustments, however, suggest otherwise. On Tuesday, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) approved fare increases across most modes of public transport starting March 19, signaling that higher fuel costs continue to feed into commuter expenses despite government support.
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday approved fare increases across all modes of land public transportation, citing soaring fuel costs driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East as a key factor behind
the long-overdue adjustment.
LTFRB Chairman Vigor D. Mendoza II said the decision was backed by data and analysis from multiple agencies including the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev).
“This decision that covers all modes of land public transportation is proof of the national gov-
ernment’s genuine concern on the welfare of those in the transport sector too while protecting the interest of the general commuting public,” Mendoza said. “This is timely because the transport sector is currently facing a serious challenge on the prices of petroleum products as a result of the Middle East tensions,” he added. The Department of Energy (DOE)
See “Spikes,” A2
taxes to help reduce the consumption of harmful products, AER added.
“At a time of rising inflation, such measures can encourage individuals to shift spending away from harmful goods and toward more essential needs,” it said.
“In the longer term, the country must also invest in more efficient and accessible public transportation and facilitate a just energy transition that reduces the economy’s dependence on volatile fossil fuel markets,” it added.
Critical ‘yes’ vote from Risa
ONE of those who voted “yes” to grant the President the authority to suspend excise taxes on petroleum products also outlined her won reservations in an explanation of vote on the floor.
While acknowledging that, “this measure can provide short-term relief to Filipino families, commuters, and small businesses who are already struggling with rising costs,” merely suspending excise tax is not enough, Hontiveros said. “The global nature of the price shock means that any reduction at the pump may be limited, and in some cases, delayed.”
SB 1982, she said, “must be complemented by a supplemental budget” that allows the government to provide ample aid to sectors most impacted: drivers, commuters, farmers, fishers, and those relying on petroleum daily.
“Direct subsidies will provide more immediate, more targeted, and more equitable relief than a broad tax suspension that may not be felt by all,” she added.
She also urged vigilance in tracking the fiscal health as a result of the huge revenue loss represented by cutting or suspending fuel excise tax.
Peso gains after Trump calls for help in Strait of Hormuz
By Andrea E. San Juan
THE Philippine peso slightly strengthened on Tuesday after its fourday losing streak against the dollar after US President Donald Trump’s call for countries to cooperate in reopening the Strait of Hormuz—a critical oil chokepoint.
Data from the Bankers’ Association of the Philippines (BAP) showed the peso closed at P59.8 per $1 on Tuesday.
Continued from A1
Brent crude has climbed roughly 50 percent since the start of the year, breaching $100 per barrel — its highest since September 2023.
New fare structure UNDER the approved adjustments, the minimum fare for traditional jeepneys rises by P1—from P13 to
This is 7 centavos stronger than its previous finish of P59.87 on Monday. The local currency hit a new all-time
P14—with the per-kilometer rate increasing from P1.80 to P2.
Modern jeepneys will see a steeper P2 hike, bringing the minimum fare from P15 to P17, while the succeedingkilometer rate moves up by 10 centavos to P2.30.
For Metro Manila and city ordinary buses, the minimum fare for the first five kilometers increases by P2—from P13 to P15—with the per-kilometer charge rising from P2.25 to P2.49.
Air-conditioned city buses get a P3 hike to P18 for the first five kilometers, with
low on Monday.
Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), attributed the incremental strength of the local currency to slightly lower global crude oil prices after US President Donald Trump “reiterated the need for countries to cooperate on escorting ships/the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, where some Iranian ships passed at the most since the war started.”
Ricafort said this may also be due to the “latest hawkish signals from the DOF on a possible rate hike as early as the next BSP rate-
succeeding kilometers rising from P2.65 to P2.98.
Provincial ordinary buses will see a P1 hike for the first five kilometers, with varying per-kilometer increases depending on bus type—30 centavos for ordinary buses (P1.90 to P2.20), 35 centavos for air-conditioned deluxe and super deluxe buses (P2.10 to P2.45), and 45 centavos for luxury buses (P2.90 to P3.35).
Transport network vehicle services (TNVS) will have their base fares raised by P20 plus a P15 pick-up fee, pushing sedan base fares from P45 to P65, AUVs from P55 to P75, hatchbacks from P35 to P55, and premium TNVS from P145 to P165. Per-kilometer and per-minute charges remain unchanged.
Airport taxis see the largest proportional jump: the flag-down rate rises P40—from P75 to P115 —though charges for succeeding distance and waiting time stay the same.
Petitions for ordinary taxis and UV Express are still under deliberation.
Overall, Mendoza said the adjustments reflect a 19 percent increase in fares across all regions.
He noted that maintenance and operational costs have ballooned from 7.54 percent at the time of the last bus fare hike in September 2022 to 54.29 percent in 2024. Wage increases and geopolitical shocks—including the war in Ukraine and the Middle East conflict—were also cited.
The new fares take effect as soon as operators secure updated fare matrices and post them in their units. A 20 percent discount for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and students on school days remains mandatory.
Industry: ‘An insult’ HOWEVER, the approved increases were deemed as an “insult” by transport groups who said the adjustments fall far short of what drivers actually need.
Manibela President Mar Balbuena called the jeepney fare hike an affront to drivers.
“This is a big insult for jeepney drivers,” he said. “They said they studied this thoroughly when prices are already 100 percent higher than before the war. We’re now seeing prices up to P120. The P1 increase on average means only P16 for a full load—drivers would need four round trips just to earn P100 for a liter of gas. This is not help, this is an insult.”
Balbuena said drivers were asking the LTFRB to explain how it arrived at the P1 figure, including whether it
setting meeting in April 2026.”
Jonathan L. Ravelas, senior adviser at Reyes Tacandong & Co., shared the same sentiment as Ricafort that the peso could have strengthened a day after BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. signaled that the BSP was intervening in the foreign exchange market.
Remolona was quoted in a Bloomberg report as saying: “Since the dollar is down, I assume some intervention can push the peso back down below 60.” Ravelas said he is still expecting the local currency to fall within the 59.60 to 59.90 range in the near-term.
already incorporates previous provisional fare increases.
He said a P2 increase would be the minimum needed to give drivers a fighting chance.
“At least with P2, there’s something to fight for. You can earn P200 to at least cushion the effects of the soaring fuel prices,” Balbuena said.
Transport federation Piston said a P1 fare hike is an “insult” given diesel prices threatening to breach P120 per liter, estimating that jeepney drivers now spend P3,600 per day on diesel—or P90,000 a month.
Piston called on its members to strike and demanded the removal of value added tax (VAT) and excise taxes on petroleum products, a rollback of fuel prices to P55 per liter, a P5 minimum additional fare, a legislated living wage, and the scrapping of the Oil Deregulation Law.
The group also called for an end to what it described as US military aggression in Iran.
Commuters caught in crossfire ADVOCACY groups acknowledged the inevitability of the hike, but questioned whether commuters should bear brunt.
Komyut representative Toix Cerna said that while she supports fare adjustments insofar as they are needed to sustain public transport operations, the impact on low-income commuters cannot be ignored.
“The increase can be prohibitive to the extent that they may drop out from economic participation,” she said. “So it’s not fair for them.”
Cerna called for a structural shift in how public transport is funded, proposing that local governments enter into net service contracting arrangements with operators.
“Local government units contract public transport to continue service and follow a timetable, with increased operating hours, and the cooperative or operator continues to collect fares but also gets extra pay from government,” she explained. “This way, fare increases can be tempered, transport workers are employed, and there is some normalcy in the daily economic life of people.”
The Passenger Forum Convener Primo Morillo noted that “the issue of rising crude oil prices is global, so it is difficult to simply stop a fare increase especially since our drivers also have families to feed.”
“The most important thing right now are the other measures the government can take to cushion the impact on the public, such as the suspension—even if temporary—of excise taxes and VAT on petroleum products,” he said.
The LTFRB said the provisional fare hike for provincial buses was approved alongside the expected distribution of P5,000 fuel subsidies to PUV operators beginning next week, noting that the subsidy does not negate the “extraordinary increases in fuel prices currently experienced.”
“First is severity and the second one is persistence,” the BSP deputy governor said. He further explained: “So what we’re looking at is whether there are signs of further disruptions of the initial impact of the oil price increase. And in the second one, how persistent will this impact be. And that will determine how monetary policy will act in the next few quarters.”
Citing BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr., the deputy governor of the central bank said if things are “quite temporary, transitory” and it doesn’t worsen too much in the next few weeks, then the overall inflation number will be “manageable” for the next few years.
However, if further disruption is seen along the supply chain, particularly oil price spikes that could persist “for some months,” then that may make the seven-man Monetary Board consider policy action moving forward, Abenoja said.
Another aspect of BSP’s response, the deputy governor underscored, is making sure that, “The hard-earned stability in the financial system continues to be preserved.”
“And that will require us to provide, for example, liquidity where it is needed. So we continue to be alert again if there are any disruptions in the financial markets, in the banking system. And BSP will continue to be ready to provide liquidity, for example, if needed,” he said.
External shock patterns
WHILE the movement of oil prices will determine the Monetary Board’s decisions in the next few quarters, Abenoja also laid out key patterns in which external shocks stemming from the Middle East conflict would affect the central bank’s assessment in its ability to promote macroeconomic stability.
“The first one is on the external transaction of the country. That will be the imports, but also other aspects of external transactions including the remittances of overseas Filipino workers,” the BSP deputy governor said.
A second channel, he added, will be through financial markets such as short-term money markets, foreign exchange markets, equity markets and the broader liquidity that is available in the system.
The third aspect that the central bank is keeping an eye on are commodity prices, which Abenoja said could “spill over” to domestic prices and eventually overall inflation.
“And this is quite unfortunate to come at a time when sentiment continues to be relatively weak to the domestic economy,” Abenoja emphasized.
BSP relief measure for OFWs
MEANWHILE , Abenoja said while the BSP has “very limited” capability to provide relief measures, they will ensure assistance for returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). He explained that the BSP is doing a “currency exchange facility” so that banks will be able to service the needs of OFWs who come home from the Middle East who need to exchange foreign currencies to peso.
‘Duterte’s answer to impeach complaints more like prohibited motion to dismiss’
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
LEADERS of the House of Representatives on Tuesday raised concerns over the response submitted by Vice President Sara Z. Duterte to the impeachment complaints against her, with lawmakers saying her answer failed to directly address the allegations and instead leaned on procedural arguments.
Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro, House Committee on Justice chairman, said the Vice President’s submission “doesn’t seem like an answer” and appears more like “a prohibited motion to dismiss” under House impeachment rules.
“Apparently for me, it doesn’t seem like an answer. While I was reading the answer, it looks like a motion to dismiss,” Luistro said.
She added that the filing was not responsive to the grounds and offenses cited in the complaints and instead questioned the proceedings before the committee.
“At least based on the allega -
tions contained in the answer, it is not responsive to the grounds or the offenses cited in the impeachment complaint. In effect, it’s as if they did not answer and instead questioned the proceedings before the Justice committee to support their intention to dismiss the impeachment complaint,” Luistro said.
Despite this, Luistro emphasized that the committee has been cautious in following impeachment rules and has already determined the sufficiency of the complaints in earlier deliberations. The committee is set to tackle
‘30 years in the making’ RTI bill moves forward at House
THE House Committee on Public Information recently approved a substitute bill for the proposed Right-to-Information (RTI) Act, with a lawmaker calling it a major step toward combating disinformation and fostering transparency and accountability in government.
Parañaque Rep. Brian Yamsuan, who heads the technical working group (TWG) on the measure, expressed optimism that the long-delayed bill—described by advocates as “30 years in the making”—will finally be enacted in the current Congress, especially after being identified as a priority by President Marcos.
“This measure, which our freedom-of-information champions have described as ‘30 years in the
making’ would not only prove to be beneficial to our citizens, but also to the government. This is also for the benefit of the government. We would now be able to avoid situations in which its leaders face unfounded accusations if decisions and actions are all documented and can be accessed by the public,” he added. Cagayan de Oro Rep. Lordan Suan, chairman of the House Public Information committee, commended Yamsuan for effectively steering the TWG, which conducted a series of meetings to refine the bill’s more contentious provisions.
Suan said the group carefully reviewed the draft “line by line”
Govt agencies boost drive vs digital organized crime
THE Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has partnered with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (Paocc) to boost the fight against digital organized crime, particularly illicit online gambling.
In a message to the Philippine News Agency, CICC head of communications Aya Macalma said the CICC’s role in its partnership with Paocc—the country’s focal agency tasked to investigate and prosecute organized crimes—is to develop comprehensive case files for investigation.
“CICC is mandated with the preparation to establish a case build-up against and prosecution of organized crime
groups,” Macalma said. In particular, the CICC will assist in carrying out digital forensics activities and lead the blocking of illicit gambling websites and content.
“This partnership proclaims CICC and Paocc’s commitment to spearhead the abolition of illegal online practices nationwide, persisting with the goal of purging the digital landscape and bringing the perpetrators to justice to a reputable and guarded online environment,” the CICC said in a statement.
The CICC’s partnership with Paocc is the latest formalized by the agency with
preliminary matters on Wednesday as it advances the impeachment process, with lawmakers also seeking authority to continue hearings during the congressional recess.
Luistro said the panel would use the last session day before the break to address procedural concerns and possibly move toward hearings that could resemble a “mini-trial” once sufficient grounds are established.
Luistro said that once the process reaches that stage, proceedings before the panel could resemble a trial.
“And after determination of sufficiency in grounds, we can proceed to the hearing proper where the committee is already authorized to address the motions, the requests, and all other matters concerning evidence and witnesses, which will be presented by the parties,” Luistro said.
Fail THE chairman of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, Manila Rep. Joel Chua said the verified answer fails to confront the allegations and instead appears aimed at preventing a full examination of evidence.
“The Filipino people deserve the truth. What we see in the Verified Answer is not a direct response to
the allegations but an attempt to avoid a full discussion of the evidence,” Chua said.
He stressed that an answer in impeachment proceedings should address accusations directly, not seek early dismissal through technical arguments.
“That is not the purpose of an answer under the impeachment rules. An answer should meet the allegations head-on. It should not be used to shut down the process before the evidence is even heard,” Chua stressed.
“If there is nothing to hide, there should be no fear of evidence. The Senate trial is where both sides can present their case, where witnesses can be examined, and where the truth can be established,” Chua added.
Also, the House Committee on Public Accounts chairman, Party-list Rep. Terry L. Ridon of Bicol Saro said the answer ad cautelam submitted by Duterte fails to directly address the allegations contained in the two impeachment complaints pending before the House.
Ridon, who also sits as a member of the House Committee on Justice, said the Vice President’s filing appears to challenge the impeachment proceedings instead of responding squarely to the charg -
es. He described the submission as anchored on what he called a “confused interpretation” of due process and the concept of ultimate facts in impeachment cases.
He stressed that due process was observed, noting that Duterte was given the opportunity to respond through the same pleading she submitted before the House.
Ridon also dismissed claims that the impeachment complaints failed to present “ultimate facts,” saying both the complaints and their supporting documents clearly laid out the allegations.
“It is, likewise, incorrect to claim that the impeachment complaints failed to state ultimate facts,” he said.
“A plain reading of the complaints and supporting documentation clearly establishes ultimate facts relating to the misuse of confidential funds; the issuance of death threats against the President, the First Lady, and the former Speaker of the House; and unexplained wealth and violations of the Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth [SALN] requirements,” Ridon said.
He added that these allegations “go to the very heart of public accountability and constitutional responsibility.”
BFP gets officer in charge
PBy Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
RESIDENT Marcos has named Fire Chief Supt. Wilberto Rico Neil A. Kwan Tiu as the officer-in-charge of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), vice Director Jesus Fernandez who is facing criminal and administrative charges at the Ombudsman. Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto said that Tiu will serve as the temporary head of BFP “until a replacement or until otherwise directed.”
Earlier the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) filed charges Fernandez who was accused of receiving kickbacks amounting to P14.7-million for allegedly rigging the bidding process for BFP’s procurement of
132 ambulances in 2024.
Fernandez is facing criminal cases for direct bribery, malversation, conspiracy and violation of Republic Act 3019 or the Antigraft and Corrupt Practices Act.
Interior Secretary Juan Victor Remulla earlier ordered an investigation of the BFP’s procurement practices following complaints of massive corruption in the agency, including reports that some BFP officials allegedly collected P30 million in kickbacks from sales of fire extinguishers from a single building
Remulla has announced an ongoing internal cleansing within the BFP to change the culture within the agency.
He said he is optimistic the ongoing reforms in BFP will help restore the morale of the 40,000
personnel of the agency.
Remulla said Kwan Tiu is capable of leading the BFP as OIC.
“He’s a capable OIC. We haven’t made a final choice on who will replace Fernandez,” Remulla said in a message sent to reporters.
Remulla previously said he had already recommended Fernandez’s removal from his post to Marcos.
“Ambulances are meant to save lives. Public funds intended for emergency response will never be allowed to become vehicles for corruption. We will pursue the truth and ensure full accountability,” Remulla said.
The DILG asked the Office of the Ombudsman to place Fernandez under preventive suspension to protect the integrity of the proceedings. With PNA
Stonewall
DEPUTY Speaker Paolo P. Ortega V also said Duterte continues to stonewall the allegations against her, noting that the answer she submitted fails to directly address the impeachment complaints and instead relies on technicalities.
“This is not an answer at all. Instead of addressing the charges head-on, she chose to hide behind technicalities,” La Union’s Ortega, endorser of the fourth impeachment complaint, said, referring to the consolidated answer ad cautelam submitted by Duterte’s camp on Monday. He added that the filing raises more questions than it answers and does not squarely address the material allegations in the complaints.
Ortega also rejected claims that a Supreme Court ruling had cleared the vice president, noting that the high court dealt only with procedural issues and did not rule on the substance of the allegations.
“They have to read both the Supreme Court decision and resolution again. The ruling did not junk the 2025 impeachment on substantive grounds but only on procedural matters,” Ortega said.
“In fact, the Supreme Court
DILG warns vs prank calls to 911
By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Tuesday warned the public against making prank calls to the Unified 911 Emergency Hotline, saying the hotline is for real emergencies only. A new feature of the Unified 911 Emergency Hotline can now detect and filter AI-generated and automated prank calls, strengthening the government’s ability to respond quickly to real emergencies, the DILG said in a statement.
House approves bill allowing suspension of biofuel blending
AFTER President Marcos certified the bill as urgent, the House of Representatives approved a measure that would allow the temporary suspension of the mandatory biofuel blending requirement under the Biofuels Act of 2006.
With 209 affirmative votes against five and zero abstentions, lawmakers approved House Bill, or the Oil Price Stabilization Act, which seeks to amend Section 5 of Republic Act 9367, or the Biofuels Act of 2006, to allow the President to suspend the mandatory use of locally sourced biofuels for up to one year if blended fuel prices become at least 5 percent higher than pure gasoline or diesel.
The urgent certification facilitates a faster process, allowing Congress to approve the measure on both its second and third readings within the same session.
Speaker Faustino Dy III said the President’s certification high -
lights the need to shield consumers and businesses from the impact of rising fuel prices amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
“The President’s certification makes clear that this is an urgent matter affecting every Filipino household and the entire economy. The House stands ready to act swiftly on this measure so we can give the government the flexibility to stabilize fuel prices,” he said.
“Our priority is to protect consumers, keep transport and production costs manageable, and ensure that energy supply remains stable,” he added.
Palawan Rep. Jose C. Alvarez, chairman of the House Committee on Energy and sponsor of the measure, said the bill is intended to protect consumers from the economic impact of global oil shocks.
“We find ourselves at a pivotal moment where global oil volatility is impacting every Filipino household and business,” Alvarez said
during his sponsorship speech.
“The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to destabilize global oil markets, highlighting our country’s vulnerability to external shocks,” he added.
HB 8469 proposes to amend Section 5 of Republic Act 9367, or the Biofuels Act of 2006, allowing the President to suspend the mandatory use of locally sourced biofuels for up to one year upon recommendation from the National Biofuels Board and the Department of Energy.
Under Article VI, Section 26(2) of the 1987 Constitution, the President’s certification of a bill as urgent allows Congress to dispense with the usual requirement that a measure be approved on separate days for second and third readings, enabling lawmakers to pass the bill more quickly in response to a public need or emergency.
Dy said the proposed amendment provides the government
with flexibility to respond to abnormal price movements in the global oil market. Under the current law, gasoline and diesel sold in the country must contain biofuel components such as bioethanol and biodiesel. While the policy supports renewable energy and local biofuel industries, the blending requirement can sometimes raise pump prices when biofuel components become more expensive or supply becomes tight.
Dy said allowing the temporary suspension of the blending requirement during such periods would help ease cost pressures and prevent unnecessary increases in pump prices.
“At the end of the day, our responsibility is clear: protect Filipino consumers from avoidable fuel price increases while ensuring that our energy supply remains stable and responsive to global developments,” Dy said. Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
‘Baligod’s marines’ appear at NBI anew
TBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE 18 alleged former soldiers appeared anew before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to provide details of their alleged participation in what they claimed as the distribution of numerous luggage containing more than P800 billion to several lawmakers and government officials from resigned Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co of Ako Bicol.
The NBI has been deputized by the Office of the Ombudsman to conduct a background check on the alleged 18 former marines and determine the veracity of their allegations contained in the
joint-affidavit that they earlier submitted to the Ombudsman for investigation.
The 18, composed of 16 former marines and two former Army soldiers, first appeared before the NBI on March 12 for the start of the investigation with the assistance of their counsel, lawyer Levito Baligod, who first presented them in the news conference.
Baligod claimed that the NBI did not require the soldiers to submit their individual sworn affidavits detailing their specific roles in the illegal cash delivery scheme.
“It’s only the Ombudsman who required them to submit individual affidavits,” Baligod said.
On the part of the NBI, Baligod said they were being required to submit certificates of employment, screenshots of chats and original copies of pictures they attached to their joint-affidavit.
Baligod, however, said it would be difficult to comply with the NBI’s requirements considering that Co is no longer in the Philippines to certify that they were previously employed under him.
“So, our secondary evidence is their identification cards. However, when their employment was terminated, they were asked to surrender their identification cards,” Baligod lamented.
The lawyer noted that they can provide the NBI photos of the identification cards of the former soldiers, some of whom were dishonorably discharged.
Baligod earlier claimed that the 18 former soldiers are being treated as potential witnesses in the illegal cash distribution scheme and not as suspects for any crime.
In their joint affidavit, the 18 former “marines” claimed that
they previously worked as personal assistants or security consultants of Co, one of the alleged masterminds of the multi-billion corruption scandal involving the government’s flood control projects.
They added that part of their duties were to escort Co’s executive assistants in delivering numerous luggage, paper bags, envelopes full of cash to several political figures, including the President Marcos and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.
They also claimed that former senator Antonio Trillanes IV received money to fund the hotel accommodations of investigators from the International Criminal Court (ICC), who were gathering evidence against former President Rodrigo Duterte and other accused in the crimes against humanity in connection with their war on drugs campaign.
NFA eyes emergency powers to keep rice prices affordable
confusion in the market.
Tto ensure that each provision had majority, if not full, consensus, following both formal and informal consultations with stakeholders.
Suan pointed out that the TWG members did not merely discuss the provisions in broad terms, “but carefully went through the draft line by line to ensure that each section had the support of the majority if not the full consensus.”
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE National Food Authority (NFA) wants to secure temporary emergency powers to keep rice affordable, including the direct sale of rice to the market, as hefty hikes in pump prices jacked up retail prices of the grain. NFA Administrator Larry Lacson urged the government to allow the grains agency to sell rice directly to consumers, a function the NFA was stripped of following
the enactment of the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL) in 2019.
The government’s subsidized P20 rice program sourced from the NFA is purchased by the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) before being sold to the market.
“The most important thing is to cut the layers,” Lacson told reporters on Monday. “We’ve proposed that in the meantime that we have a crisis, the NFA should be allowed to sell directly to the market.”
“We have so many warehouses, about 321 nationwide. We can start with that, so the rice goes directly to Filipino consumers.”
The NFA chief is also seeking emergency purchase powers to enhance the grains agency’s logistics process and fast-track the milling process, since this requires them to bid out.
Meanwhile, Lacson said they are mulling over increasing their buying price by the end of this month to compete with traders purchasing palay at P24 per kilo.
Currently, the NFA buys clean and dry palay at P21 per kilo, and P17 per kilo for wet palay.
“Right now, the traders’ buying prices are so high that, in fact, we can’t keep up,” Lacson said.
“Definitely, before the harvest season ends, we will compete with traders’ buying price to allow us to get a sizeable amount of palay to replenish our stocks.”
Lacson, however, did not disclose the revised amount of its buying price in fear that this would trigger speculations and create
Bernardo: I received ₧130-M from Zaldy Co
FORMER Public Works undersecretary Roberto Bernardo has testified as a state witness before the Sandiganbayan in the malversation case filed against Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co Ako Bicol and several others in connection with the P289.5 million anomalous flood control project in Naujan, Mindoro. During his testimony, Bernardo claimed that he received P130 million from Co as supposed “balato” or kickback from proceeds from the anomalous flood control project.
Bernardo, who has been placed under the Witness Protection Program (WPP) of the Department of Justice (DOJ), was presented by the Ombudsman’s special prosecutor as state witness before the anti-graft’s Sixth Division which
is hearing the malversation case. Bernardo told the anti-graft court that he received the money from Co through former Department of Public Works and Highways Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan) Regional Director Gerald Pacanan, one of Co’s co-accused in the case, and DPWH Bulacan First District Engineer Henry Alcantara.
Alcantara has also been placed under the DOJ’s WPP as state witness for anomalous flood control projects in Bulacan. Bernardo said he received P10 million a year from Pacanan from 2023 to 2025 and P40 million from Alcantara in 2023 and 2024, and P20 million in 2025.
He said the money came from Co according to Pacanan and
itself said that its ruling did not absolve the vice president. That should be clear to everyone,” Ortega added.
Alcantara, as a “token of gratitude” for guaranteeing that both of them were reasonable to deal with.
Bernardo said some of the payments were delivered personally by Alcantara, while others were received through his driver and aide.
He said he received the money during every third quarter of every year.
Aside from Co and Pacanan, the other respondents in the malversation case are Gene Ryan Altea, DPWH assistant regional director; Ruben D.S. Santos, DPWH assistant regional director; Dominic Serrano, chief of DPWH Construction Division and Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) chairperson; Felisardo Casuno, DPWH Project Engineer 3; Le -
The Deputy Speaker said that impeachment is a constitutional mechanism meant to determine accountability, not a process that can be avoided through legal technicalities.
“Accountability cannot be stonewalled. The Filipino people deserve clear, direct answers—not legal maneuvering that avoids the truth,” Ortega said.
Non-answer
IN addition, complainants in the third impeachment case against Duterte have escalated their criticism of her defense, with their counsel describing her submission as a “non-answer” and opting to forgo filing a reply.
In a Manifestation of Waiver to File a Reply submitted before the House Committee on Justice, lawyer Amando Virgil D. Ligutan, representing the complainants led by Joel T. Saballa, argued that Duterte’s 15-page Consolidated
rma Cayco, DPWH Accountant IV; Dennis Abagon, PWH OIC-Chief, Quality Assurance and Hydrology Division; Regular Member, BAC; Montrexis Tamayo, DPWHMimaropa Planning and Design Division officer-in-charge; and Juliet Calvo, DPWH 4B maintenance division head.
The defense team manifested their objection to Bernardo’s presentation as witness, pointing out that his statements on his supposed receipt of money was “too general and indefinite.”
The defense also noted that his affidavit does not include the road dike project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, which is the subject flood control project in the case.
However, the anti-graft court overruled the objection as it noted that Co and Pacanan were men -
Verified Answer failed to meet the basic standards of a responsive pleading.
Ligutan said the Vice President did not specifically deny the material allegations outlined in the 98-page impeachment complaint, prompting the complainants to deem a reply unnecessary.
He also criticized the submission for failing to directly address the accusations, instead blurring key legal distinctions, particularly between ultimate facts and evidentiary facts, which he said undermines its credibility as a valid defense.
Central to the complaint are allegations surrounding the use of confidential funds, including the reported spending of P125 million in just 11 days out of a total P612.5 million allocated to the Vice President. Ligutan noted that Duterte’s answer did not provide a clear or substantive explanation for these expenditures.
Despite this, the NFA chief assured the public that the agency’s current buffer stock can feed Filipinos for 10.3 days. This consists of 7.96 million 50-kilo bags of milled rice equivalent, which stands at around 397,000 metric tons (MT).
The government has ramped up its efforts to help farmers amid fuel price hikes driven by the conflict in the Middle East, as this serves as a critical input in the agricultural value chain.
tioned in Bernardo’s affidavit while the Naujan road dike project could be raised by the defense during its cross-examination.
Meanwhile, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has come up with its findings on the three malversation and graft complaints filed against Sen. Joel Villanueva in connection with the flood control scandal.
The complaints pertain to the alleged misuse of public funds for anomalous flood control projects undertaken by Topnotch Catalyst Builders Inc. in Bulacan.
The malversation of public funds through falsification of public documents under Article 171 in relation to Article 217 is a non bailable-offense.
See “Co,” A5
He stressed that the seriousness of the allegations warranted a direct and comprehensive response, which, according to the complainants, was lacking.
Given this, the complainants formally manifested their decision not to file a reply, effectively closing their end of the pleadings.
The filing, dated March 17, 2026 and submitted by Saligal Law Offices, is expected to factor into the next steps of the committee as impeachment proceedings continue.
Deny LUISTRO, meanwhile, dismissed allegations of double standard in its handling of impeachment complaints against President Marcos and Duterte.
She said the differing outcomes stemmed from a key factor—the presence or absence of personal participation necessary to establish liability.
Among the key features of the substitute bill is a provision requiring government agencies to proactively disclose accurate and updated information through their official websites. This includes details on programs and projects, thirdparty contractors, decisionmaking processes, service standards, accomplishments, and financial documents such as procurement plans, budgets, and expenditures.
The measure also mandates the disclosure of Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALNs) of public officials, with safeguards to protect sensitive personal information. Certain details—such as home addresses, information on minor children, signatures, and government-issued ID numbers—will be redacted in publicly released copies. Yamsuan added that the bill establishes a legal presumption in favor of access to information, placing the burden on government agencies to justify any denial of requests.
The measure also provides for the creation of an independent, quasi-judicial RTI Commission tasked with overseeing its implementation. The body will have the authority to compel agencies to release information and to investigate and resolve violations of the law.
In addition, the bill seeks to integrate RTI, media and information literacy, and principles of good governance into the education curriculum to promote civic engagement and responsible use of information.
Jovee Marie N.
“I don’t think so,” Luistro said when asked about alleged disparity in standards. She explained that establishing a factual nexus, or the connection between the alleged offense and the grounds cited in the complaint, is crucial – something she said was evident in the case involving the Vice President.
“That is necessary for us to establish the factual nexus, the connection between the offense and the grounds present in the impeachment complaint against the Vice President,” she said. Luistro noted that complainants in the case against the president “failed to show personal participation,” while the complaint against Duterte clearly demonstrated such involvement. The committee’s finding of sufficiency in form and substance was approved by a 54-1 vote, which Luistro described as the “exclusive judgment” of its members.
dela Cruz
The enhanced capability helps ensure that emergency operators and responders can focus on people who genuinely need urgent assistance.
Emergency 911 National Office Executive Director Francis Fajardo said the upgraded system can now recognize patterns linked to AIgenerated calls and robo-dialing used for prank or misleading reports.
“We received reports that under the Unified 911 with our modernized system, we can filter robo-calls and AIgenerated,” Fajardo said during the DILG Kapihan forum on Tuesday.
“We have a system where we can now validate AI-generated calls. In the system, we can detect it now,” he said.
Though data from the National Call Center showed that prank and abandoned calls dropped by 98.3 percent since the modernized system was launched in September 2025, suspicious or non-emergency calls still consume valuable system capacity and may delay assistance to legitimate callers in distress.
The DILG said prank and automated calls can clog emergency lines and delay response to real incidents such as accidents, crimes, fires, and medical emergencies.
To protect the hotline’s capacity, the system now tracks numbers that repeatedly place suspicious or non-emergency calls. Numbers that show a pattern of prank reporting are automatically assigned lower priority, allowing operators to prioritize verified emergencies.
The Department reminded the public that every unnecessary call to 911 risks delaying help for someone whose life may be on the line.
The DILG reiterated that Unified 911 is strictly for emergencies and urged the public to help protect the system by using the hotline responsibly so responders can reach those in danger without delay.
government agencies in its fight against illicit online gambling, especially Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogo) run by organized crime groups.
It has also formalized joint operations with the National Police–Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor), and the civil group Digital Pinoys to crack down against illegal online gambling and its promoters.
“Authorities are urged to exercise extreme vigilance to apprehend the threat actors that are now pooling resources to execute cybercrimes, including operating POGO hubs and illegal online gambling,” it said.
On March 4, the CICC announced its partnership with Digital Pinoys in a monthlong documentation and verification of illegal gambling sites, applications, and their promoters as part of criminal and administrative cases to be filed by government authorities.
The findings were handed over to the PNP-ACG, and suspects will face charges under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and other violations, such as syndicated estafa. PNA
Gatchalian seeks inquiry on impact of Iran war on economy, fiscal targets
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
THE impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on the country’s economic and fiscal targets warrants a comprehensive, continuing review, said Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian who filed Senate Resolution 348 seeking such inquiry.
“There is a pressing need to assess whether current market conditions remain aligned with the national budget and determine if fiscal policy adjustments are needed to ensure it remains responsive to the needs of our countrymen,” said Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance.
The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev) estimates inflation this year may rise to 4 percent to 4.2 percent, above the 3.6 percent pre-conflict forecast, if fuel prices hit $100 per barrel within the month and remain above the $80 until May.
Inflation could further increase to 4.5 percent-4.8 percent if prices reach $140 per barrel within the month and stay above $80 until September, Gatchalian explained.
DepDev further estimates that remittances of overseas Filipino workers could drop by as much as 65.3 percent from 2025 levels, equivalent to P226.58 billion, if a deployment ban and 10 percent repatriation of affected OFWs are implemented. Such a scenario could reduce the country’s gross domestic product by as much as 0.20 percent-0.30 percent if the oil price
shock persists, DepDev claimed.
Gatchalian added that all sectors will be adversely affected by the unfolding crises spawned by the war in the Middle East, and the government’s approach must not be limited to simple emergency aid for them, but must consider the longterm, wider effects of the conflict.
Analysts earlier warned that the crisis spells supply chain and production problems for most economic sectors, aggravated by the projected decline in remittances, as thousands of OFW jobs are in peril. Some 2.4-million OFWs are based in that region.
Cosmetics sector leans on MSMEs for growth
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
THE cosmetics, toiletries and fragrances industry is expected to sustain growth as government support remains focused on helping businesses meet regulatory standards, improve product quality and expand into wider markets, a trade official said. Speaking at the opening of the 2026 summit of the Cosmetics, Toiletries and Fragrances Association of the Philippines (CTFAP),
Trade Undersecretary Blesila
Lantayona said the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) continues to roll out programs aimed at strengthening the sector, particularly its base of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Lantayona said these efforts include assisting firms in navigating regulatory requirements, adopting digital tools and improving competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.
She underscored the role of MSMEs in driving the broader economy, citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showing that about 99.63 percent of registered businesses in 2024 fall under the MSME category, accounting for 66 percent of total employment.
Within the cosmetics and personal care segment, many companies began as small, homegrown ventures before scaling up into established brands, reflecting
Clark airport launches direct PITX bus route
By Ashley J. Manabat
CLARK FIELD, Pampanga—
Travelers from southern
Metro Manila can now access Clark International Airport more easily following the launch of a new direct bus route connecting the airport to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX).
The service, operated by Genesis Transport Service Inc., offers daily trips between PITX and Clark, with stopovers at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 and SM City Clark. Airport operator Luzon Inter -
national Premiere Airport Development Corp. (Lipad) said the new route is part of efforts to improve connectivity and provide more convenient transport options for passengers as traffic at Clark continues to grow.
Passenger volume at the airport is expected to rise by 15 percent this year compared with 2025, partly due to the transfer of turboprop operations to Clark, according to Lipad.
“This new service reflects our commitment to making travel more accessible and convenient for our passengers,” Lipad President and Chief Executive Officer Noel
Manankil said.
“It helps connect southern Metro Manila directly to Clark, making the journey easier for more travelers.”
The route will operate eight trips daily from PITX to Clark and another eight trips from Clark to PITX.
Genesis Transport said four hybrid buses will be deployed along the route to support more environmentally sustainable travel while improving mobility between Metro Manila and Central Luzon. Trips may be increased depending on passenger demand, it added.
Cops intensify drive vs abusive lenders
THE National Police (PNP) has stepped up efforts to combat abusive online lending platforms by investigating operators who harass borrowers, invade privacy and violate cybercrime laws.
The force made the move after receiving more than 47,400 complaints since 2024, with victims reporting threats, public shaming and unauthorized access to contact lists.
“We documented cases of manipulated photos to humiliate and
DOJ spokesman Polo Martinez said the DOJ has come up with its findings following the conduct of preliminary investigations on the cases.
“As of this date, those three cases have been officially endorsed to the Ombudsman. At that point, the Ombudsman will review the findings by the DOJ prosecutors and issue its own review resolution,” Martinez told reporters.
scare their borrowers. This is not acceptable and this kind of wrongdoing clearly needs police action,”
Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., National Police chief, said in a statement Tuesday.
Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (Paocc) Executive Director Benjamin Acorda said 47,446 complaints were filed against online lending companies for alleged abusive practices from August 2024 to January 2026.
Nartatez ordered the PNP AntiCybercrime Group (ACG) to arrest
Martinez said it would be up to the Ombudsman to decide whether it would uphold the DOJ findings and determine if the required quantum of evidence for filing before the Sandiganbayan have been met.
The DOJ spokesman said the referral to the Ombudsman is in accordance with jurisdictional rules as the cases involve officials with Salary Grade 27 or higher.
“Ultimately, these cases must be endorsed to the Office of the Ombudsman so they can determine if these
suspects and build cases involving online harassment, data privacy violations and related offenses.
He said the PNP-ACG is coordinating with the Paocc, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the National Privacy Commission (NPC) to identify violators.
Nartatez urged the public to stay vigilant and borrow only from SEC-registered lenders.
He also advised victims of harassment to report incidents to the nearest police station. PNA
are worth filing in court,” he added.
Meanwhile, Martinez said the DOJ is set to wrap up the preliminary investigation into the plunder complaint filed against detained former senator Ramon Revilla Jr., who is also facing malversation and graft charges before the Sandingabayan, in relation to the alleged anomalous P92.8million flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan.
The DOJ spokesman said Revilla has been given until March 30 to submit
the sector’s potential for growth, she added.
To support this trajectory, she said that the DTI has been implementing initiatives aimed at strengthening supply chains, ensuring compliance with industry standards and helping firms position their products in an increasingly competitive global market. These efforts are anchored on the agency’s five-point strategic agenda for MSMEs, which focuses on expanding e-commerce
and digitalization, encouraging innovation-driven product development, promoting sustainability practices, strengthening entrepreneurial capabilities and increasing market access within Southeast Asia and beyond.
Industry group CTFAP, which hosted the summit, represents companies in the sector by promoting product safety standards and responsible business practices while supporting long-term industry development.
DA earmarks ₧500-M for Pantao port upgrade
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) has set aside P500 million to expand the Port of Pantao in Albay into an agricultural logistics hub.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said its 2026 budget will bankroll the Pantao port expansion along with the development of post-harvest facilities in the area.
Furthermore, the agency has also allocated funding for the construction of a farm-to-market road in 2027 to enhance access to the port.
Tiu Laurel said he will coordinate with Public Works Secretary Vivencio Dizon to fast-track repairs to the existing road linking Pantao port to the Maharlika Highway.
The DA will also be in talks with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the provincial government of Albay to support the expected increase in cargo and passenger traffic once the expansion is realized.
“We need a whole-of-government effort to unlock Pantao’s potential,” Tiu Laurel said. “Better road access and post-harvest facilities such as ice plants and cold storage will allow fishers to bring their catch to more markets and earn more.”
The DA aims to complete the
its supplemental counteraffidavit on the separate counter-affidavits filed by four additional respondents in the plunder case. The four additional respondents are former DPWH-National Capital Region engineers identified as Denryl Caesar S. Cortuna, Manny B. Bulusan, Ruel V. Umali and Arturo L. Gonzales Jr. Revilla’s defense team has opposed the inclusion of new respondents in the case, however, the panel of prosecutors handling the
port expansion and road improvement by early 2028, which it said will pave the way for “greater economic development” in Libon and the rest of Albay.
“This will be a major advantage for Libon once we complete the port expansion, improve the road network, and install the ice plant and other facilities,” Tiu Laurel said. Located along Albay’s western coastline, the Port of Pantao serves as a maritime gateway linking the Bicol region to nearby island economies such as Masbate, Visayas, and Mindanao, according to the DA.
While smaller than the ports of Legazpi and Tabaco, the agency said that Pantao provides an alternative route for cargo and passenger traffic bound for Southern Luzon and Metro Manila.
The roll-on/roll-off (RORO) facility, owned by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and co-managed with the Provincial Government of Albay, reopened in August 2024 after nearly two decades of inactivity following damage from Typhoon Milenyo in 2006.
The DA said local officials noted that improving road access and adding cold-chain infrastructure could transform Pantao into a regional fisheries and agricultural logistics hub while easing congestion at other Bicol ports. Ada Pelonia
preliminary investigation denied the motion.
Martinez said the inclusion of the additional respondents is necessary to ensure a thorough investigation and uncover all the important facts in the case.
“We want an orderly administration of justice. We want to ferret out the truth. These affidavits are worth looking into to determine if they establish prima facie evidence with reasonable certainty of conviction,” Martinez pointed out. Joel R. San Juan
A8 Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Editor: Angel R. Calso
Iran strikes UAE oil facilities; vows to keep ‘stranglehold’ on strategic Strait of Hormuz
By Jon Gambrell, David Rising & Samy Magdy The Associated Press
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates—Gulf Arab nations came under renewed missile and drone fire Tuesday from Iran, which has been targeting regional oil infrastructure and vowed not to relinquish its stranglehold on the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Israel also launched new strikes on Iran and Lebanon, as the war in the Middle East showed no signs of abating.
Dubai, a major transit hub for international travel, briefly shut its airspace as the military said it was “responding to incoming missile and drone threats” around the city, and a man was killed by the debris of a missile intercepted over Abu Dhabi.
The Israeli military said early Tuesday it had begun a “widescale wave of strikes” across Iran’s capital and was also stepping up strikes on Iran-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon. Israel also reported two incoming salvos before dawn from Iran at Tel Aviv and elsewhere, and said Hezbollah targeted Israel’s north.
Iranian strikes pressure neighbors and oil markets IRAN kept up the pressure on the energy infrastructure of its Gulf Arab neighbors, hitting an oil facility in Fujairah, a UAE emirate on the country’s east coast with the Gulf of Oman that has been repeatedly targeted. State-run WAM news reported that no one had been injured in the blast from the drone strike.
The man killed by falling debris from an intercepted missile was the eighth person to die in the UAE since the start of the war, authorities said.
Iran’s attacks on Gulf nations and its grip on the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s oil is transported, has given rise to increasing concerns of a global energy crisis. Early Tuesday it hit a tanker anchored off the coast of Fujairah, one of about 20 vessels hit since Israel and the United States started the war with an attack on Iran on Feb. 28.
Iran’s parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, said his country had been given no choice but to keep up its pressure on shipping traffic in the strait.
“They are flying, launching missiles, should we just sit back and do nothing in response?” he said in an interview on state television.
With Washington under increasing pressure over rising oil prices, Brent crude, the international standard, remained over $100 a barrel, up more than 40% since the war started.
US President Donald Trump said he had demanded that roughly a half-dozen countries send warships to keep the Strait of Hormuz open. But his appeals brought no immediate commitments, with many saying they are hesitant to get involved in a war with no defined exit plan and skeptical that they could do more than the US Navy.
UAE briefly closes airspace as Iran launches new attacks on Gulf neighbors
The UAE shut down its airspace early Tuesday as its military
reported it was “responding to missile and drone threats from Iran.” The closure was soon lifted, and not long after the sounds of explosions could be heard as the military worked to intercept incoming fire.
The snap announcement on its airspace showed the balancing act Emirati authorities face in trying to keep their long-haul carriers, Emirates and Etihad, flying as Iranian attacks continue to target the country.
Saudi Arabia’s Defense Ministry reported intercepting a dozen drones Tuesday morning over the country’s vast Eastern Province, home to oil infrastructure.
In Qatar, the sounds of explosions boomed over the capital early in the day as defenses worked to intercept incoming fire. Qatar’s Defense Ministry said later that it had successfully thwarted a missile attack on the city, though a fire broke out in an industrial area from a downed projectile.
Attacks from Iran-linked proxy forces continued in Iraq, as the US Embassy in Baghdad was hit with shrapnel from drones that had been intercepted.
The embassy’s air defenses were able to shoot down all four drones targeting the facility, according to two Iraqi security officials, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence matters.
A separate strike targeted a house in the heavily fortified Presidential Compound in Baghdad’s al-Jadriya area, the officials said. It wasn’t clear who carried out either attack but Iranallied militias have regularly been attacking American targets inside Iraq since the conflict began.
Israel launches new attacks on Tehran and steps up strikes on Beirut
THE Israeli military early Tuesday said it had launched new attacks across Tehran in addition to the Lebanese capital targeting Hezbollah militants.
More than 1,300 people have been killed in Iran since the start of the conflict, according to the Iranian Red Crescent.
Israel’s strikes have also displaced more than 1 million Lebanese—or roughly 20% of the population—according to the Lebanese government, which says some 850 people have been killed.
Some Israeli troops have pushed into southern Lebanon, and there are fears Israel is preparing a large-scale invasion.
Israel reported two Iranian salvos early Tuesday fired toward Tel Aviv and an area south of the Sea of Galilee. More launches from Lebanon were also reported. In Israel, 12 people have been killed by Iranian missile fire. At least 13 US military members have been killed.
Trump’s call for help in the Strait of Hormuz elicits tepid response THE virtual shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz is unnerving the world economy, driving up energy prices, threatening food shortages in poor countries, destabilizing fragile states and complicating efforts by central banks to drive down prices for consumers.
There have been a handful of ships getting through, primarily Iranian but also from other countries including India and Turkey, and Iran has said it technically remains open - just not for the United States, Israel and its allies.
Underscoring the danger of even getting close to the strait, a tanker anchored off the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates was hit by a projectile early Tuesday morning and sustained minor damage, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center, run by the British military.
Trump has been showing growing frustration at the tepid response to his call for help from other countries in opening the strait.
Many US allies have been critical of the US and Israel for failing to provide clarity on their objectives in the war and have suggested that they are more interested in a diplomatic solution than getting dragged into the conflict.
“What does Donald Trump expect a handful, or a couple of handfuls of European frigates to achieve there in the Strait of Hormuz that the powerful US Navy can’t do alone?” asked German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius on Monday.
“It is not our war, we didn’t start it, we want a diplomatic solution and a quick end, and more warships in the region won’t help.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said his country might deploy mine-hunting drones already in the region, but “will not be drawn into the wider war.”
Rising
The military’s chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, said Monday on a visit to the northern border that Israel’s army is “determined to deepen the operation until all of our objectives are achieved” and that the military’s Northern Command is being reinforced with additional soldiers.
from Bangkok and
Iran war pushes countries into energy triage as they conserve power, curb soaring prices
By Anton L. Delgado & Aniruddha Ghosal The Associated Press
BANGKOK—The escalating war with Iran is pushing parts of the world into energy triage, forcing governments to choose where to cut demand or absorb costs, while prioritizing dwindling supplies.
Asia is the most exposed since it relies heavily on imported fuel, much of it shipped through the now-blocked Strait of Hormuz.
The narrow passage offshore from Iran is the main route for shipping a fifth of global trade in crude oil and liquified natural gas.
Governments in the region are scrambling to adjust—tallying oil reserves, conserving energy, competing for supplies and trying to blunt prices. That brings difficult trade-offs: saving power may slow business activity. Prioritizing cooking gas for households can hurt restaurants and other businesses.
“Even relatively modest constraints on energy use can create a drag on industrial activity,” said Linh Nguyen, with the consultancy Control Risks. She pointed to Vietnam’s energyintensive export industries and warned that higher fuel costs or conservation measures could quickly raise production costs or slow factory output.
Analysts warn the same hard choices could soon spread beyond Asia to fuel-importing economies in Africa and elsewhere as countries compete for scarce supplies.
“The situation is common across the board,” said Putra Adhiguna of the Jakarta-based Energy
Shift Institute. “There is no easy decision for the short term.”
Southeast Asia is rationing scarce energy WITH oil prices surging despite releases of some reserves, Southeast Asia is stretching dwindling energy reserves by urging households, businesses and government agencies to slash power use.
In the Philippines, officials have switched to a four-day workweek to cut back on fuel consumption and reduce the government’s energy use by a fifth. Offices have been told to switch off computers during lunch breaks and keep air conditioning no lower than 24°C (75°F). Vietnam has urged people to work from home. While in Thailand, the prime minister has even asked officials to take the stairs instead of elevators.
But this comes at a cost.
Dieu Linh, a vegetable seller in Hanoi, said even a 10% rise in fuel costs will eat into her thin margins. “If my costs go up by even a little, the profit is almost gone,” she said.
At the same time, countries in the region are competing for limited supplies at higher costs. Vietnam has asked refineries and fuel distributors to keep fuel
supplies high, while Thailand is stretching its roughly two-month oil reserve and seeking other domestic energy sources. Both are using price supports to shield households from rising costs.
Thailand halted exports to protect its limited reserves, contributing to shortages that have closed nearly a third of Cambodia’s roughly 6,000 gas stations.
East Asia searches for new energy suppliers and sources MORE than 80% of the liquefied natural gas, or LNG, that passed the Strait of Hormuz in 2024 went to Asia, according to the US Energy Information Administration, and much of it to Japan, South Korea and Taiwan.
Japan’s first line of defense is its vast strategic oil stockpile, amounting to around 254 days’ worth of supplies. This system was set up after the shocks from the 1970s Arab oil crisis.
Japan began releasing about 45 days’ worth of oil reserves this week to prevent fuel prices from surging as crude oil imports slow. It last released reserves after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
This will help keep Japan’s energy-intensive industries running, from automobiles to steel manufacturing and heavy machinery. Companies like Toyota, Mitsubishi and Nippon Steel depend on steady fuel supplies.
South Korea plans to release 22.46 million barrels from its reserves under the International Energy Agency ‘s largest-ever coordinated stock draw.
But analysts said that tapping reserves isn’t a long-term solution. It will give refineries “some buffer” against disruptions. But this does not increase a country’s overall supply unless it can buy oil released by other nations, said Muyu Xu of the energy consul -
tancy Kpler.
If the crisis drags on, crude oil shortages could return. The releases may keep refineries running for another few weeks, but companies may need to slow production if disruptions continue, she added.
“The fundamental difficulties will not be solved by this action,” said Mika Ohbayashi of the Renewable Energy Institute in Japan, adding that renewable energy was a long-term solution but the Japanese government was uninterested.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is due to meet with US President Donald Trump later this month and Japan’s plans to buy more American LNG and restart nuclear power plants are likely to be on the agenda, analysts say.
Populous nations prioritize homes, but face price pinch INDIA is prioritizing household needs for its limited supply of liquefied petroleum gas or LPG, which is used for cooking and to power cars.
It has absorbed more than half
of the increase driven by global market disruptions under a federal scheme to keep prices low for poor households, said Indian Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri.
But shortages are already seeping into restaurants and hotels in the world’s second-largest LPG importer, as eateries shorten hours, close temporarily or trim longsimmered curries and deep-fried snacks from their menus.
The scale of demand in India, the world’s most populous nation, limits how long it can cap prices to shield consumers. The situation could worsen within a week if government subsidies lapse, said Duttatreya Das of the think tank Ember, noting gas supplies were the most immediate concern.
“You can’t store a lot of gas,” Das said, adding that fertilizer factories and small industries will feel the pinch first.
Indonesia, a country of 287 million people and Southeast Asia’s most populous nation, also faces hard choices.
While the government has promised to maintain fuel prices
throughout Eid al-Fitr, the Muslim holiday marking the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, Adhiguna of the Energy Shift Institute said there is “no clarity about what will happen after that,” adding that this implies fuel prices could increase.
Thailand is also caught in a dilemma. If it ends subsidies that keep prices low, living costs will jump and that could spark a panic if reserves fall further, said Areeporn Asawinpongphan of the Thailand Development Research Institute.
If the conflict continues, Indonesia will have to choose between keeping the subsides that protect customers or cutting funding to keep to budgetary limits. However, this could fuel inflation. Given Indonesia’s limited 20-day reserve, Adhiguna warned that price fluctuations in Indonesia’s fuel market will be swift.
“It will eventually reach a breaking point,” Adhiguna said.
Europe feels the squeeze, too THE European Union is doubling down on its long-term clean energy strategy to cut consumption and rein in prices across the 27-nation bloc that have risen sharply since the war’s start. Officials met in Brussel this week, where they considered ways to improve the region’s energy security.
“We are looking at how we can reduce people’s energy bills,” said European Commissioner for Energy Dan Jørgensen. “We are working on immediate measures to help businesses and our most vulnerable citizens.”
Ghosal reported from Hanoi, Vietnam. Associated Press writers Elaine Kurtenbach in Bangkok, Thailand, Sam McNeil in Brussels and Piyush Nagpal in New Delhi, India contributed to this report.
Kabul hospital hit: Rescuers recover dead from rubble, Pakistan blamed
By Abdul Qahar Afghan, Munir Ahmed & Elena Becatoros
KThe Associated Press
ABUL, Afghanistan—Rescue crews were still digging bodies out of the rubble of a drug rehabilitation hospital in the Afghan capital Tuesday morning, after officials there said an overnight Pakistani airstrike killed at least 400 people at the facility. Pakistan has denied Afghanistan’s accusation that it targeted a hospital, saying its strikes, which were also conducted in eastern Afghanistan on Monday, did not
hit any civilian sites. The strikes late Monday night mark a dramatic escalation of a conflict that began between Afghanistan and Pakistan late last month and has seen repeated cross-border clashes as well as airstrikes inside Afghanistan. International calls for a ceasefire have gone unheeded.
In a late-night post on X, Afghanistan’s deputy government spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat said the airstrike had hit the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital, a 2,000-bed facility in Kabul, at about 9 p.m. local time. He said large sections of the facility had been destroyed, and that the death toll had “so far” reached 400 people,
LIBERIA-FLAGGED tanker Shenlong Suezmax, carrying crude oil from Saudi Arabia, that arrived clearing the Strait of Hormuz, is seen at the Mumbai Port in Mumbai, India, Thursday, March 12, 2026. AP/RAFIQ MAQBOOL
A10 Wednesday, March 18, 2026
The World
Hundreds of migrants vanish in Mediterranean as governments withhold rescue information
By Renata Brito & Paolo Santalucia The Associated Press
ROME—Bodies washing ashore day after day. Phone calls from relatives going unanswered. Migrants’ tents abandoned overnight.
Migrants trying to reach Europe are vanishing in droves in what are known as “invisible shipwrecks” but governments responsible for search and rescue are withholding information about what they know.
The beginning of 2026 ranks as the deadliest start to any year for people trying to cross the Mediterranean—an unprecedented 682 confirmed missing as of March 16—according to the United Nations’ International Organization for Migration. But the real death toll is almost certainly much higher.
Human rights groups are increasingly struggling to verify tolls as Italy, Tunisia and Malta have quietly restricted information on migrant rescues and shipwrecks along the deadliest migration route in the world. The news barely makes headlines, in part because the lack of transparency prevents journalists from confirming reports.
“It’s a strategy of silence,” said Matteo
Villa, a researcher focusing on migration and data at the Italian Institute for International Political Studies think tank.
The organization Refugees in Libya and other human rights groups have been sounding the alarm since late January, reporting more than 1,000 people missing after Cyclone Harry hit the region. But authorities have not confirmed, denied or corrected those reports.
In the weeks that followed the cyclone, more than 20 decomposing bodies washed ashore in Italy and Libya while other human remains were spotted floating in the middle of the sea.
For the families of missing migrants, not knowing their fate is excruciating.
“Europe should know that these people who got drowned in the sea have family members, have dreams, have passions,” Josephus Thomas, a migrant from Sierra Leone and community leader in Tunisia’s coastal town of El Amra, told AP.
Sparse information means fewer deaths recorded EVEN the U.N.’s migration agency is increasingly unable to verify cases of migrants who die in what is known as “invisible shipwrecks” because of the growing lack of information.
Last year, at least 1,500 people were reported missing whose fates IOM could not confirm, said Julia Black, who leads the organization’s Missing Migrants Project. The issue persists in 2026.
“We started a new secondary data set of what we are calling unverifiable cases because it’s just become so many,” Black said. For this year, they already have more than 400 missing they could not verify.
Many humanitarian organizations that
previously filled some of the information gaps are no longer able to do so because of the global wave of funding cuts and government-imposed restrictions across the region.
“We’ve seen the restriction of access for humanitarian actors, which is not right. And now we’re seeing even the restriction of information,” Black said.
The Associated Press repeatedly asked authorities in Tunisia, Italy and Malta why
they aren’t sharing information related to migrant rescues at sea and what their policies are. Not one responded.
Countries quiet on reports of boats missing after cyclone OVER the years, authorities in the Mediterranean have gradually reduced information related to migrants. But their silence was even more pronounced in late January after Cyclone Harry unleashed heavy rainfall, winds of 100 kph (62 mph), and 9-meter-tall (30 feet) waves.
Hundreds of people had departed from Tunisia’s coastal region of Sfax and disappeared, according to information the group Refugees in Libya gathered from migrants in Tunisia and their relatives abroad.
The group acknowledged it was difficult to be precise “because there is no central system recording departures, losses, or recoveries,” but it warned that the death toll was likely even higher.
“We are looking at boats that never counted how many kids are inside,” Refugees in Libya founder David Yambio told AP.
The AP sent five e-mail requests to the Italian coast guard seeking information on the boats reported missing and search efforts but received no response. An officer
who answered the phone said the coast guard did not have “any further verified and confirmed information regarding the circumstances.” AP also filed a Freedom of Information request, which is pending.
The coast guard also declined to comment on an alert it issued on Jan. 24 asking vessels sailing between the Italian island of Lampedusa and Tunisia to be on the lookout for eight small boats in distress carrying some 380 people. The alert was made public by Italian journalist Sergio Scandura.
One survivor rescued from the boats THERE is only one known survivor from the boats reported missing during Cyclone Harry. He was floating in the water when a merchant vessel rescued him on Jan. 22. The man told crew members he had been traveling with another 50 people, some of whose bodies could be seen in the water in video of the rescue. Thanks to his testimony, their deaths were included in IOM’s tally. According to the captain, the survivor was evacuated to Malta. The Maltese Armed Forces did not respond to multiple requests
The World
Islandwide blackout plunges Cuba into darkness as economic crisis deepens
By Milexsy Durán & Dánica Coto
The Associated Press
HAVANA—Officials in Cuba reported an islandwide blackout Monday in the country of some 11 million people as its energy and economic crises deepen and its power grid continues to crumble.
The Ministry of Energy and Mines on X noted a “complete disconnection” of the country’s electrical system and said it was investigating, noting there were no failures in the units that were operating when the grid collapsed.
Lázaro Guerra, the ministry’s electricity director, told state media late Monday that crews were trying to restart several thermoelectric plants, which are key to restoring power.
“It must be done gradually to avoid setbacks,” he said. “Because systems, when very weak, are more susceptible to failure.”
As night fell, candles began to burn in some homes while the sounds of children playing and singing with their mother filled one dark house in Havana.
“We have to prepare a mattress for the girls here so that they can sleep here because we have no choice,” said Yuneici Cecilia Riviaux, as she motioned to an open door. “I don’t have a rechargeable fan or a generator.”
It was the third major blackout in Cuba over the past four months.
Tomás David Velázquez Felipe, a 61-year-old resident of Havana, said the relentless outages make him think that Cubans who can
Migrants. . .
should just pack up and leave the island. “What little we have to eat spoils,” he said. “Our people are too old to keep suffering.”
By Monday night, state-owned media reported that crews had restored power to 5% of Havana’s residents, representing some 42,000 customers, as well as several hospitals across the island. Officials said they would prioritize the communications sector next, all while warning that the small circuits restored so far could fail again. Cuba’s aging grid has drastically eroded in recent years, leading to daily outages and an increase in islandwide blackouts. But the government also has blamed its woes on a US energy blockade after US President Donald Trump in January warned of tariffs on any country that sells or provides oil to Cuba. The Trump administration is demanding that Cuba release political prisoners and move toward political and economic liberalization in return for a lifting of sanctions. Trump also has raised the possibility of a “friendly takeover of Cuba.”
On Monday, he said he believes he’ll have the “honor of taking Cuba.”
“I mean, whether I free it, take it. I think I could do anything I want with it,” Trump said about Cuba, calling it a “very weakened nation.”
The Trump administration is looking for Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel to leave power as the United States continues to negotiate with the Cuban government about the island nation’s future, according to a US official and
a source with knowledge of talks between Washington and Havana.
Both spoke on condition of anonymity to describe the sensitive talks and did not offer any detail about who the administration might like to see come to power.
They confirmed the Trump administration’s desire to see Díaz-Canel leave power days after the Cuban president publicly confirmed for the first time that his government has held talks with the Trump administration. The administration’s push for the ouster of Díaz-Canel was first reported by The New York Times earlier Monday.
Grinding blackouts
WILLIAM LEOGRANDE , a professor at American University who has tracked Cuba for years, said the country’s energy grid hasn’t been maintained properly and its infrastructure is “way past its normal useful life.”
“The technicians working on
the grid are magicians to keep it running at all given the shape that it’s in,” LeoGrande said.
LeoGrande said that if the island drastically reduces consumption and expands renewables, it can struggle along for a while without oil shipments. “But it would be constant misery for the general population, and eventually, the economy could collapse just completely and then you would have social chaos and probably mass migration,” he said.
To ramp up solar power even faster than Cuba did last year, LeoGrande said other countries, principally China, would have to be willing to double or more their provision of such equipment.
Díaz-Canel on Friday said the island had not received oil ship -
ments in three months and was operating on solar power, natural gas and thermoelectric plants, and that the government has had to postpone surgeries for tens of thousands of people.
Yaimisel Sánchez Peña, 48, said she was upset that the food she buys with money that her son in the US sends keeps spoiling, adding that the outages also affect her 72-year-old mother: “Every day, she suffers.”
Mercedes Velázquez, a 71-yearold Cuban resident, lamented yet another blackout. “We’re here waiting to see what happens,” she said, adding that she recently gave away part of a soup she made while it was still fresh so as not to throw it out. “Everything goes bad.”
‘A perfect storm of collapse’ A MASSIVE outage over a week ago affected the island’s west, leaving millions without power. Another major blackout affected western Cuba in early December.
Critical oil shipments from Venezuela were halted after the US attacked the South American country in early January and arrested its then-president, Nicolás Maduro.
While Cuba produces 40% of its petroleum and has been generating its own power, it hasn’t been sufficient to meet demand as its electric grid continues to crumble.
“And on top of all that, the Cu -
ban government doesn’t have the hard currency to import spare parts or upgrade the plant or grid itself. It’s just a perfect storm of collapse,” LeoGrande said. He noted that the thermoelectric plants also have been using heavy oil, whose sulfur content is corroding the equipment.
The deputy prime minister of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment, Óscar PérezOliva Fraga, told reporters Monday that Cuba is open to trading with US companies while noting the embargo’s limitations.
He said he’s also implementing new measures aimed at boosting the island’s economy. Among those is the possibility of allowing Cubans residing abroad to be partners or owners of private companies in the country and to be involved in large-scale projects, including those related to infrastructure, according to state media.
He said those Cubans will be allowed to partner with Cuban private companies and establish ties with both state-owned and private Cuban entities. Pérez-Oliva added that the government also will grant land under usufruct for the development of certain projects.
about their involvement or reports that they recovered the man and the bodies.
The Tunisian Foreign Ministry and the Tunisian National Guard also have not responded to multiple requests for information by email and phone.
Frontex, a European Union agency that assists nations with border surveillance, told AP that it spotted eight boats carrying about 160 migrants between Jan. 14 and 24 when the cyclone hit. It said six boats were rescued by Italian authorities, but the fate of the other two remains unknown.
On Feb. 8, migrants prayed and cried during a memorial ceremony in the olive groves near Sfax, presuming their loved ones could not be alive after so many days without news.
“All of us here are in deep trauma, are in deep agony,” Dr. Ibrahim Fofana, a migrant in Tunisia whose relatives have been
Continued from A9
Continued from A10 third week.
Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid condemned the strike on X, accusing Pakistan of “targeting hospitals and civilian sites to perpetrate horrors.” He said those killed were “innocent civilians and addicts.”
“We strongly condemn this crime and consider such an act to be against all accepted principles and a crime against humanity,” he said in a separate post on X.
Pakistan dismisses the allegations
PAKISTANI Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s spokesperson, Mosharraf Zaidi, dismissed the allegations as baseless, saying no hospital was targeted in Kabul.
Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar posted on X in the early hours Tuesday that the Pakistani military had “carried out precision airstrikes” targeting military installations in Kabul and the eastern province of Nangarhar.
He said “technical support infrastructure and ammunition storage facilities” at two locations in Kabul were destroyed.
“All targeting has been done with
missing since late January, said in a video shared by Refugees in Libya. He pleaded for authorities to identify the bodies that washed ashore in Italy.
Tighter information follows migration crackdown
UNTIL mid-2024, Tunisian authorities regularly shared the number of migrants they were intercepting at sea, eager to show their European partners compliance with a 2023 deal to curb migration in exchange for financial aid. But the deal was also followed by a brutal crackdown against migrants on land that resulted in thousands being detained or dumped in the desert.
Nongovernmental organizations such as the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights, known by its French acronym FTDES, which used to compile and share reports on migrant interceptions, were also caught in the crackdown.
In June 2024, Tunisia’s Ministry of Interior stopped releasing any information on migrants, citing security reasons, said
precision only at those infrastructures which are being used by Afghan Taliban regime to support its multiple terror proxies,” he wrote.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Information said earlier that Mujahid’s claim was “false and misleading” and aimed at stirring sentiment and cover what it described as “illegitimate support for cross-border terrorism.” It said Pakistan’s targeting was “precise and carefully undertaken to ensure no collateral damage is inflicted.”
UN calls on Afghanistan to combat militants
THE strike came hours after the U.N. Security Council called on Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers to immediately step-up efforts to combat terrorism. Pakistan accuses Kabul of harboring militant groups, particularly the Pakistani Taliban, which it says carry out attacks inside Pakistan.
The Security Council resolution, adopted unanimously, didn’t refer specifically to attacks carried out in Pakistan but condemned “in the strongest terms all terrorist activity including terrorist attacks.”
Pakistan’s government accuses Afghanistan of providing safe haven to the Pakistani Taliban, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States,
Romdhane Ben Amor, FTDES’ spokesperson. But in his opinion, the motives were political. The numbers were incompatible with the narrative that Tunisia was not Europe’s border guard, he said.
Italy’s erosion of information on migrant rescues is even older than Tunisia’s. The Italian coast guard used to provide detailed monthly data on migrants rescued. The monthly reports became quarterly before stopping completely in 2020, Villa said. In 2022, previous reports were also removed from the coast guard’s website.
This year, the Italian coast guard did not share any migration-related press releases despite nearly 5,000 migrants disembarking on Italian shores, according to Italy’s Interior Ministry statistics.
“It is very clearly a political strategy to repress as much information as possible from the public,” Villa said.
Brito reported from Barcelona, Spain. Trisha Thomas contributed to this report from Rome.
as well as to outlawed Baloch separatist groups and other militants who frequently target Pakistani security forces and civilians across the country. Kabul denies the charge.
The latest conflict THE fighting—the most severe between the two neighbors—began in late February after Afghanistan launched cross-border attacks in response to Pakistani airstrikes inside Afghanistan that Kabul said killed civilians. The clashes disrupted a ceasefire brokered by Qatar in October after earlier fighting killed dozens of soldiers, civilians and suspected militants.
Pakistan has declared it is in “open war” with Afghanistan. The conflict has alarmed the international community, particularly as the area is one where other militant organizations, including al-Qaida and the Islamic State group, still have a presence and have been trying to resurface.
On Saturday, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari said Afghanistan’s Taliban administration crossed a “red line” by deploying drones that injured several civilians in Pakistan last week.
Ahmed reported from Islamabad, and Becatoros from Athens, Greece. Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations contributed.
Coto reported from San José, Costa Rica. Associated Press writers Seung Min Kim, Aamer Madhani and Darlene Superville in Washington contributed.
STREET vendors chat during a blackout in Havana, Monday, March 16, 2026. AP/RAMON ESPINOSA
lic concern on the surge in pump prices, Malacañang sees no need for President Ferdinand Marcos to declare a state of emergency to control fuel prices.
The Chief Executive made the statement after the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) called on the chief
executive to declare a state of national emergency under Section 14-A of Republic Act (RA) No. 8479 or the Oil Deregulation Law to help mitigate fuel prices by forcing oil firms to reduce their profits. The declaration will allow the Department of Energy (DOE) to temporarily take over or direct the operation of any person or entity engaged in the oil industry.
In a press briefing in Cebu last Tuesday, Palace Press Of -
ficer Claire Castro said Marcos currently does not need to resort to such a measure to stabilize oil prices, which can only cause “fear” among the public.
“Our only request right now is that since we are in this situation, let us refrain from doing activities like fear mongering. This only adds to the fear among our countrymen while the President and the government are still in control of the situation,” Castro said when asked if Marcos will con -
sider making such a declaration. Castro also said oil firms are cooperating with the government to mitigate the economic impact of the Middle East crisis by implementing staggered price hikes.
The Department of Energy (DOE) announced that by the end of the week, the prices of diesel can reach P95 to P114 per liter, while for gasoline it will be around P76 to P96 per liter amid the ongoing armed conflict in the
‘Frasco retains Marcos’ trust amid transition to new advisory role’
By Carmel Pedroza
EBU CITY—Former Tourism
CSecretary Christina Garcia Frasco continues to enjoy the full trust and confidence of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as she transitions into her new role as Presidential Adviser for Sustainable and Resilient Communities, a Palace official said on Tuesday.
During a press briefing with Cebu media in Mandaue City, Undersecretary Claire Cas -
tro clarified that discussions on a possible replacement for Frasco’s current post have yet to take place.
“As of now, we have not yet discussed about the replacement for the position. Let’s just wait—maybe in the next few weeks,” Castro said. Castro emphasized that the President remains confident in Frasco’s capabilities, particularly in carrying out the responsibilities attached to her new designation.
“First of all, Sec. Frasco still has the trust
given by the President. The President knows she can perform the task given to her as a Presidential Adviser for Sustainable and Resilient Communities,” she said.
According to Castro, Frasco’s mandate centers on strengthening coordination and advancing national strategies to build disaster-ready and environmentally sustainable communities.
Quoting the scope of responsibilities, Castro said Frasco is tasked to: facilitate the integration and alignment of national government initiatives, plans, policies, and programs that promote sustainable and resilient communities, including those related to disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, environmental stewardship, and sustainable local development.
She will also coordinate with national government agencies, local government units, and relevant stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of presidential directives and priority national initiatives in sustainability and resilience.
Additionally, Frasco is expected to monitor the progress of these initiatives and identify gaps, bottlenecks, or coordination issues that may hinder their implementation.
Castro added that the President recognizes Frasco’s ability to work closely with local governments to help mitigate the impact of disasters and unforeseen events.
“Mas alam ng Pangulo na kakayanin ni Sec. Frasco ang pakikipag-ugnayan sa lokal na pamahalaan… para mas maibsan ang danasin ng ating mga kababayan kung may
mga sakuna, pangyayaring hindi inaasahan tuladngbagyo,lindol,atibapangmaaaring emergency cases,” Castro said.
The Palace has yet to announce any timeline for leadership changes in the Department of Tourism as Frasco assumes her expanded role.
Meanwhile, Frasco expressed her gratitude to President Marcos for the trust and confidence bestowed upon her.
In a post on her Instagram account on Monday, Frasco thanked Marcos for the opportunity to serving the nation in her new role.
She highlighted her previous tenure as Secretary of Tourism as a “privilege,” emphasizing the collaborative efforts between government agencies, local communities, and private sector partners in strengthening the country’s tourism industry.
During her time at the Department of Tourism (DOT), Frasco noted that initiatives were focused on boosting the tourism economy, supporting enterprises, promoting innovation and culture, and sustaining millions of Filipino jobs.
She added that these efforts expand opportunities for communities nationwide.
Looking ahead, she affirmed her commitment to supporting the administration’s goals.
“I carry this experience with deep gratitude for workers, communities, and partners across the tourism sector whose dedication sustains our nation, and I look forward to supporting the Administration’s efforts to strengthen the resilience and sustainability across the Philippines,” she concluded.
Middle East.
The recent wave of pump price hikes has sparked demands from labor groups to demand for higher wages.
Oil prices soared after the United States and Israel launched a joint airstrike against Iran.
Marcos is eyeing to reduce the price of oil by certifying as urgent the bills, which will grant him special powers to suspend or adjust excise taxes on petroleum products and amend the Biofuels
Act of 2006. But when it comes to the calls of the Makabayan bloc to scrap RA 8479, Castro said the Marcos administration will let Congress decide on the matter.
“It’s up to Congress to decide what they think will be good for our country, and if they can show and influence our President through their drafting of laws that will be good for the country, the President will not object to it,” Castro said.
Marcos vows to boost women’s participation in govt, workforce amid PHL’s ranking drop
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. pledged to boost women’s roles in government and the workforce through greater educational access for girls.
The Chief Executive made the commitment after expressing concern on the drop in the country’s global ranking in terms of women serving in national parliaments this year to 86th from 82nd in December of 2022.
He also expressed frustration when only 50.7 percent of the country women were part of the labor force as of January, which is lower compared to the 74 percent labor force participation among males.
“These realities remind us that empowering women requires sustained action—from expanding opportunities in education and employment to ensuring greater representation in leadership and in governance,” Marcos said during the oath-taking ceremony of newly elected officers of the Association of Women Legislators Foundation Inc. (AWFLI) in Malacañang last Tuesday.
In his speech to the Conference of the Status of Women (CSW) of the United Nations (UN) in the United
States earlier this month, Marcos sustaining such an initiative may require a “cultural shift.”
The Chief Executive stressed the importance of encouraging more women to become lawmakers since it will result in more gender equality measures through the efforts of the AWFLI.
He described AWFLI as a nonpartisan bloc of women legislators, which brings together female leaders across all political affiliations.
“It becomes a space where collaboration flourishes, shared values guide action, and meaningful solutions emerge for the benefit of our people. Through your work, women and the youth gain support to develop their potential, pursue their dreams, and contribute meaningfully to society,” Marcos said.
“And the efforts of the AWLFI continue to reinforce our nation’s commitment to gender equality and social protection,” he added.
Citing the Global Gap Report of the World Economic Forum, he said the country has already improved its ranking from 25th in 2024 to 20th last year in terms of gender parity. Samuel P. Medenilla
Nearly half of early-grade pupils in major Cebu cities struggle to read–Edcom 2 Report
By Carmel Pedroza
CEBU CITY—Major urban centers in Cebu island—
Talisay City, Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Toledo City, and Mandaue City—have recorded some of the highest rates of earlygrade learners struggling to read simple texts, according to a recent national government report.
The Second Congressional Commission on Education (Edcom 2) revealed that nearly half of young learners in these cities are classified as “struggling readers,” meaning they are unable to read or understand basic sentences and short paragraphs.
In its report titled LGU Playbook: Fixing the Foundations of Local Education, the commission said the issue remains widespread in Cebu’s urban areas based on
results from the Comprehensive Rapid Literacy Assessment (CRLA) conducted at the start of school year 2025–2026.
Among the nine school divisions in Cebu island, Talisay City posted the highest proportion of struggling or emerging readers, with 52.99 percent of learners falling under the category.
Next was Cebu City, where 46.85 percent of early-grade students were found to have difficulty reading and understanding simple texts.
Other major cities with similar concerns include Lapu - L apu City at 45.64 percent, Toledo City at 43.83 percent, and Mandaue City at 39.70 percent.
Across Cebu Province—the largest school division in the island with more than 90 districts—nearly four out of 10 students in Grades 1 to 3 are
MMDA opens bike-friendly facilities in Pasig to promote sustainable mobility
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3
THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) officially inaugurated its Biketo-Work End-of-Trip (EoT) facilities in Pasig City on Tuesday, reinforcing its commitment to promoting active transport and sustainable mobility across Metro Manila.
The agency formally opened four shower rooms: one for male users, one for female users, and two all-gender rooms, ensuring that the transition from the road to the workplace is comfortable, inclusive, and accessible for all cyclists.
MMDA Chairman Romando Don Artes expressed full support for the program and highlighted the agency’s plans to expand similar facilities across Metro Manila in line with the socioeconomic agenda of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. which promotes the use of sustainable modes of transportation.
The newly launched facilities also provide essential amenities such as secure bike racks and changing spaces to support cyclists, especially those going to their work.
Artes said that the MMDA will continue to roll out initiatives that encourage people, especially workers and officegoers, to consider cycling as adaptable mode of transportation.
“KamiditosaMMDAaygumagawang programa at asahan n’yo po na maglalagaypakamingmga similar facilities all over Metro Manila paramatulunganang mga kababayan na nagbibisikleta lalo na‘yung mga pumapasok sa trabaho at opisina,” Artes said.
In his remarks during the inauguration ceremony, MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III emphasized the purpose of the initiative: “Ang goal natin dito ay simple lamang –to protect the welfare of the cyclists.” He further described the project as
DMW:
By Samuel Medenilla @sam_medenilla
THE ongoing conflict in the Middle East has forced around 2,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFW) and their dependents to flee the region, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
In a press conference, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Patricia Yvonne M. Caunan said the
an effective and concrete step toward a more bike-friendly metropolis, noting that the pilot initiative serves as a proof of concept and reflects MMDA’s longterm vision for sustainable and inclusive transport systems.
The MMDA is looking forward for a strong synergy between the agency itself and private sectors to provide support through subsidies for water and electricity for the facilities. Meanwhile, LPG distributor Republic Gas Corp. (Regasco) has committed to donating hygiene supplies, including soaps, shampoos, and 1,000 towels for users.
Cycling representative Pio G. Fortuno Jr. of Siklista Pilipino also expressed gratitude to the agency for acknowledging the needs of the biking community and advancing cyclist-friendly programs.
“I would like to thank the MMDA for recognizing cyclists. I hope a lot of private companies would follow the example of MMDA na maglagay din sila ng bikefriendly facilities,” he said.
MMDA is also exploring the possibility of operating the facilities 24/7 to better serve and accommodate more cyclists. Currently, around 1,700 cyclists use the EDSA bike lane daily.
For monitoring and security, users are required to register upon entry before accessing the facilities for free.
The inauguration was led by Artes and Torre, together with other MMDA officials, representatives from partner agencies, and private sector stakeholders, including Maynilad, Manila Water, and Meralco.
Also present during the ceremony are members of the cycling and mobility advocacy community, including MNL Moves, Move As One Coalition, Sakay PH, Make It Safer Movement, Bicycle Friendly Philippines, Tiklop Society of the Philippines, Siklista Pilipino, Firefly Brigade, East Side Riders Marikina, Renacimiento Manila, Happy Pedal Project, and the National Bicycle Organization, as they show strong support for the agency’s active transport initiatives.
latest figure includes the 75 additional Filipinos, who arrived in the country from six commercial flights.
OWWA is an attached agency of DMW.
“We are closing the week or starting next week at around 2,000 government sponsored repatriations,” Caunan said. The latest figure includes the 50 Filipinos, who were repatriated by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) from Iran. The numbers, Caunan said, are still expected to increase in the coming days
considered struggling readers.
The CRLA assessment covered 263,204 students in the early grades at the beginning of the 2025–2026 school year.
Meanwhile, the cities of Bogo City and Danao City recorded the lowest rates of struggling readers in the province at around 32.5 percent.
While comparatively better, Edcom 2 noted that the figures still fall short of the commission’s benchmark for grade-level literacy.
National picture
THE report also found that the 10 localities with the highest number of struggling readers nationwide are all located in Mindanao.
These include Tawi - Ta wi, Maguindanao del Norte, North Cotabato Special Geographic Area, Zamboanga City, Sarangani, Sulu, Maguindanao del
Sur, Lamitan City, Basilan, and Davao Occidental.
Edcom 2 linked the country’s literacy crisis to a broader nutrition problem affecting children even before they enter school.
‘Stunting epidemic’ ACCORDING to the commission, many learning gaps stem from a “stunting epidemic” that begins during early childhood and affects brain development.
In Cebu, the prevalence of stunting among children is estimated at 6.84 percent, significantly lower than the national average of 23.6 percent.
Despite this, the province remains part of the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP), highlighting the continuing need to address child nutrition.
Edcom 2 warned that stunting
can cause irreversible effects on cognitive development, limiting a child’s capacity to learn and later participate in the workforce.
Role of local governments
TO address the issue, the commission released the LGU Playbook to guide local leaders in implementing education and nutrition reforms.
“The national government cannot fix this from an office in Manila. Real, lasting reform happens in your barangays, your child development centers, and your local schools,” said Karol Mark Yee, executive director of Edcom 2.
The report urges local chief executives to prioritize programs focusing on the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, a critical period for nutrition and brain development.
Last-mile firms gain digital access via govt-UN push
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
NTREPRENEURS in geographically
Eisolated areas are set to gain improved access to government services and online markets following the rollout of a digital support program led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the United Nations.
The initiative focuses on equipping selected Negosyo Centers in “last-mile” provinces with information and communications technology (ICT) tools and more reliable internet connectivity.
With the deployment of laptops, tablets and printers, business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs can process business name registrations and other official requirements more efficiently at these centers, reducing dependence on manual systems and travel to urban hubs.
Across the country, around 1,400 Negosyo Centers serve as frontline service hubs for
enterprise development, including those operating in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Established under the Go Negosyo Act, these centers provide assistance ranging from business registration to financing access and basic management training.
The integration of digital tools is expected to change how small businesses operate, allowing owners to shift from handwritten records to automated systems.
Alongside infrastructure upgrades, the program includes training in e-commerce and digital marketing, aimed at helping micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) navigate online platforms and expand their market reach.
According to Trade Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona, the program is part of the broader Digital PINAS project, which seeks to ensure that entrepreneurs are not excluded from the country’s ongoing digital transformation due to geographic constraints.
About 14 Negosyo Centers have been
identified as initial beneficiaries, located in Balbalan in Kalinga; Polillo in Quezon; Ragay in Camarines Sur; Caluya in Antique; Buenavista in Guimaras; Mambusao in Capiz; Marabut in Samar; Abuyog in Leyte; Ipil in Zamboanga Sibugay; Kapatagan in Lanao del Norte; Kitaotao and Don Carlos in Bukidnon; Lake Sebu in South Cotabato; and Talacogon in Agusan del Sur.
The rollout forms part of the Digital PINAS Joint Programme, implemented with support from the United Nations Development Programme, the International Labour Organization and the International Trade Centre.
The program aims to build a more inclusive digital ecosystem by enabling businesses in underserved areas to compete in the online marketplace.
At least 15,000 MSMEs are targeted for digital support under the initiative, with priority given to women, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples and households living in extreme poverty.
Good news for scholars: CHED, LandBank streamline system to release funds instantly
FRUSTRATED by the reality that countless Filipino students wait months or even years for their scholarships, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) signed landmark agreements at the recent Higher Education Summit 2026 to expedite fund releases.
Responding to the call of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ease the burden on students and speed up the delivery of educational assistance, the agreements were signed by CHED and UniFAST Board Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis and LanBank President and CEO Ma. Lynette V. Ortiz, aiming to accelerate the disbursement of scholarship grants and financial assistance administered by Ched and UNIFAST.
Under the scholarship and grants-inaid payout agreement, CHED, UniFAST, and LandBank will work together to streamline the delivery of educational assistance to student beneficiaries nationwide by removing
after the next chartered flight from the armed conflict in the Middle East, which was started by the joint airstrike by the United States and Israel against Iran.
“I will be flying to Riyadh this week to make sure that our preparations for the next chartered flight for our workers will be smooth. We have more OFWs, who will come from Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain,” Caunan said.
OWWA said there are still over 600 OFWs, who are awaiting repatriation.
logistical hurdles that often delay its release.
The new system provides multiple avenues for students to receive their funds, including direct crediting to LandBank accounts and other bank accounts.
With a more streamlined system in place, thousands of students nationwide can expect quicker access to the support they need—allowing them to focus on their studies and pursue degrees that will help strengthen the country’s food security, innovation, and economic growth.
“Equally important are the initiatives that promote financial inclusion and more efficient disbursement systems, ensuring that assistance reaches students in a timely and transparent manner,” said Agrupis during the summit on March 12.
She added, “Sa ganitong paraan, mas napapadali nating naihahatid ang tulong sa ating mga mag-aaral.
For her part, Ortiz affirmed the bank’s commitment to the collaboration, noting that LandBank will provide the necessary
President Ferdinand Marcos earlier directed DMW and the Department of Foreign Affair (DFA) to ensure the welfare and safety of the over 2 million OFWs in the Middle East.
In a related development, DMW Secretary Hans J. Cacdac also reminded OFWs not to post attack videos online.
This after three Filipinos were arrested in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the said prohibited action.
“We continue to caution our fellow
technical and operational support to ensure that financial services remain accessible to students and institutions nationwide, including those in remote communities.
Under the directive of Marcos to expand access to higher education and strengthen student support under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, the Commission continues to enhance the delivery of student educational assistance programs while supporting national development priorities.
With the rollout of the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program this year, CHED and UNIFAST are set to welcome a significantly larger community of new students with government support across the country. By improving the efficiency of disbursement, CHED and LandBank are helping remove barriers to education and empowering Filipino students to complete their studies, develop their talents, and contribute to a stronger and more resilient future for the nation.
Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
countrymen to please abide by host country protocols and security regulations. In this case, posting documentation and videos of attacks is prohibited. So please refrain or do not video nor post such images of attacks in your respective host country, particularly UAE,” Cacdac said.
He assured that DMW and DFA are already providing support to the arrested Filipinos.
“We continue to provide legal and other forms of assistance,” Cacdac said.
It also encourages mayors to tap the Special Education Fund (SEF) under revised 2025 guidelines to hire para-teachers and tutors who can provide remedial reading sessions through the government’s ARAL Program.
Replicable success stories
EDCOM 2 also highlighted successful local initiatives that could serve as models for other areas. One example is Norzagaray, where focused interventions reportedly eliminated illiteracy among Grades 1 to 3 within a single school term.
Without stronger local action, the commission warned that “learning poverty”—currently affecting 91 percent of Filipino 10-year-olds—may continue to limit opportunities for the country’s next generation.
Under the new fare matrix, the minimum fare for traditional jeepneys will rise by P1, from P13 to P14, while the per-kilometer rate increases to P2 from P1.80. Modern jeepney fares will go up by P2, bringing the minimum to P17 from P15, with the perkilometer rate climbing to P2.40 from P2.20. Related story below, “Fare hike for all land public transport cleared.”
For Oplas, these adjustments underscore the lack of a clear spillover effect from subsidies extended to transport operators, with cost increases still being passed on to commuters.
Former Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Dante B. Canlas, for his part, told this newspaper that fiscal constraints are a key limitation to broader interventions.
“The P5k fuel subsidy is not designed as a full replacement for foregone income from the oil-price increase and the emerging inflation,” he said, noting that both the government and the public will inevitably share the burden.
Given limited fiscal space, Canlas said assistance must be more tightly targeted toward the most vulnerable.
“The group that deserves more financial help will, as usual, be the poor. In this regard, the best the [government] can do is to target any additional subsidy at the poor,” he added, citing food aid, health, and medical support as more effective forms of assistance.
This was, likewise, agreed upon by another former director general of the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda), Solita C. Monsod, who said that the support should focus on the “bottom 50 percent of the population who will not essentially be able to afford these higher prices that they are facing.” Window for corruption STILL, Oplas warned that cash aid programs carry risks of inefficiency and leakage. She argued that if the government has the fiscal space to provide subsidies, it may be more effective to intervene earlier in the supply chain by subsidizing fuel imports, helping temper prices before these reach transport operators and, eventually, consumers.
“I’m wary of cash aid because it’s a window for corruption. Unlike when subsidies are directed to importers, the effect goes straight to prices. You only need to monitor the importers. With cash aid, there are many more points to monitor,” she explained.
For his part, University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) economist Peter Lee U said: “Without the subsidy the commuters may not have anything to ride in the first place if the drivers don’t go on their routes because they will lose money. It will be natural to focus on transport sector because the transport sector is the main user of oil.” When asked what more can be done for consumers, he said: “It will require more budget,” noting that the government would need to determine if resources are sufficient and who should qualify for further assistance.
High prices of fish and rice dilemma: Geopolitics clouds PHL food outlook
FISH and other marine products are usually expensive during the Lenten season. This is reflected in the latest price monitoring of the Department of Agriculture (DA), which indicated that fish prices as of March 14 were higher compared with last year’s levels. Prices of alumahan and large bangus or milkfish, according to the DA data, were higher by around P20 per kilo while the average price of local squid rose by almost P50 per kilo.
The average prices of rice and corn, however, were relatively stable. Figures from the agency showed that the price tag of white corn, which is sometimes substituted for rice, was lower at P77 per kilo from the previous year’s P86 per kilo. Commercial regular milled rice posted an increase of P2 per kilo compared with last year’s cost, but qualified beneficiaries of a government program are allowed to buy Kadiwa rice at P20 per kilo.
The plan of the government to impose a price ceiling due to the Middle East conflict, which could trigger price spikes, is a viable proposition considering the impact of high oil prices on the production of the staple. (See, “DA eyes rice price ceiling as Middle East war triggers spikes,” in the BusinessMirror , March 17, 2026). The agency is keen on imposing this measure as freight rates from Vietnam have doubled, pushing the landed cost of imported rice to nearly $500 per metric ton (MT). The disruption in the oil supply chain is largely responsible for this.
Aside from Iran’s chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz, which drove oil prices to dizzying heights, the announcement of China to further restrict fertilizer exports pose additional threat to food security. Bloomberg reported last March 16 that Beijing has asked exporters to stop outbound shipments of nitrogen-potassium fertilizer blends. It also reiterated existing export restrictions on urea, quashing traders’ hopes that new sales quota would be issued soon, according to Bloomberg’s sources.
This development is a cause for concern for countries dependent on imported fertilizer like the Philippines. A significant reduction in global supply due to China’s decision to halt shipments would definitely push up prices of one of the most important farm inputs. And if the Middle East conflict drags on, other exporting nations could follow the lead of China, which sought to secure the food requirements of its citizens in imposing export restrictions.
While the government is extending subsidies to planters to mitigate the impact of geopolitical tensions on production cost, it must also be vigilant in preventing speculators and other profiteers from taking advantage of the situation. Aside from the price ceiling, the state must step up efforts to protect the market from unscrupulous traders who seek to rake in big money by bringing misery to consumers. These traders not only hurt consumers, particularly those belonging to the low-income group, but they also damage the economy as profiteering could accelerate inflation and drive market volatility.
Navigating the crisis
ITHE BUILDER
AM confident that we can carefully navigate the oil price crisis caused by the trouble in the Middle East through timely government response and the cooperation of everyone.
The Philippines depends on other countries for about 90 percent of its oil requirement. When Middle East oil supply was disrupted, global prices went beyond $100 a barrel.
The situation became more complicated when the peso further depreciated against the US dollar in recent days, making buying fuel from abroad more expensive. This leads to “imported inflation”—where other commodity prices soar.
The Department of Finance is in coordination with various state agencies to ensure that the national response remains measured, timely and responsible.
Recent data illustrate the delicate situation. In February 2026, headline inflation rose to 2.4 percent. While this remains within the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) target range of 2.0 to 4.0 percent, officials recognize that the Middle East conflict could push these figures further upward in March.
Per the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DepDev) estimates, if oil prices breach $100 per barrel, economic growth
T. Anthony C. Cabangon
Lourdes M. Fernandez
Jennifer A. Ng Vittorio V. Vitug
Lorenzo M.
could slip below 5 percent, with severe scenarios potentially driving inflation as high as 7.5 percent.
Another major concern is the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East, whose remittances fuel the domestic economy. A sustained conflict could disrupt these flows, affecting domestic consumption.
The government aims to protect the economy and its people from these sudden changes.
BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. indicated that interest rate hikes may be necessary if oil prices remain high enough to de-anchor inflation expectations.
To effectively mitigate the impact of Middle East crisis, the government is prioritizing energy diversification and the establishment of strategic reserves. Because the nation is a net importer of fuel, it remains vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and sudden price spikes in the global market.
By facilitating the transition to renewable energy sources—such as solar, wind and geothermal—the
government aims to reduce this reliance on imports. Beyond infrastructure, the government is implementing policies and targeted subsidies to protect the most vulnerable segments of society.
Instead of relying on broad fuel tax suspensions that could hurt the national budget and fiscal health, the government is focusing on “surgical” interventions like the “Pantawid Pasada” program. The initiative, together with similar support systems for farmers and fisherfolk, ensures that those most affected by rising costs receive direct aid.
Supporting the Philippine peso through prudent monetary policy of the BSP is also vital. A weak currency serves to inflate the cost of imported fuel further. By utilizing the healthy foreign exchange reserves, the country is better equipped to manage the inflationary pressures.
On the international stage, the Philippines is pursuing diplomatic diversification and regional cooperation within ASEAN to bolster longterm energy security.
By forging stronger partnerships with neighboring energy exporters, the country can reduce its overreliance on a single, distant region, thereby gaining more stability.
To safeguard the logistics and transportation sectors, the government has entered into strategic discussions with local oil companies. This is to ensure gradual price adjustments.
By spreading the impact of rising global crude costs over several weeks,
the government aims to prevent the “sticker shock” that often accompanies sudden spikes at the pump. This is important for daily wage earners and small businesses. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) are distributing fuel subsidies directly to public utility vehicle (PUV) operators to prevent fare surges. Similar support is being extended to the agricultural sector through the Department of Agriculture (DA), recognizing that fuel is a primary input in food production and distribution.
Government operations are also being streamlined to achieve energy conservation. Beginning March 9, 2026, a uniform special work arrangement was adopted where employees work on-site from Mondays to Thursdays and transition to a work-from-home model on Fridays. The arrangement will reduce government-wide electricity and fuel consumption by 10 percent to 20 percent.
I agree that the government’s multi-faceted strategy—combining surgical subsidies, prudent monetary policy and aggressive energy diversification—will help stabilize the situation.
By being proactive and prepared, the Philippines will survive the problem. Our hope is to build a stronger, more efficient economy that isn’t easily swayed by crisis overseas.
For feedback e-mail to senatormarkvillar@ gmail.com or visit our web site: https://markvillar. com.ph
Iran war creates an energy crunch for export giant Australia
By Keira Wright & Ben Westcott
AS the war in the Middle East enters its third week, Australia—with little domestic refining capacity left—underscores how even major fossil fuel exporters aren’t immune to a widening energy crunch.
While the supply of gasoline and diesel to Australia has remained steady, the government has warned that a prolonged conflict could strain shipments. Panic buying is already pushing prices higher, especially outside the big cities, with costs rising faster than international benchmarks in the early stages of the conflict—prompting competition authorities to summon suppliers and retailers for an explanation.
Julia Hausler, a farmer in northwestern Victoria, has watched the price of diesel at her local gas station soar by about 50 percent, rising to as high as A$2.69 a liter in recent days—a worry even if large buyers don’t always pay retail prices.
“An agricultural farm doesn’t use tens of liters, it uses tens of thou-
sands of liters to put a crop in,” she said. “Diesel’s just mission critical to getting the crop in—there are no other alternatives.”
Hausler said that while her farm was largely supplied for the moment, the fuel challenge was front and center in her conversations with other producers around the region. “The hardest thing for farmers is that for all of our planning, we just don’t quite know what the right answer is.”
Despite being one of the world’s biggest shippers of coal and natural gas, Australia doesn’t produce enough crude oil to meet its own needs. Add competition from newer, more efficient refineries in Asia, and the nation has been left with just two aging plants that produce less than a quarter of its fuel. For the rest, it
relies on imports. Australia can likely manage about 26 percent lower diesel imports through increased domestic production and demand-side measures, but beyond that, industrial shut-ins would be required, Morgan Stanley analysts including Rob Koh said in a report Monday.
The country’s top fuel suppliers have already halted spot sales— one-time transactions outside longterm agreements that typically go to smaller retailers and commercial users.
Over the weekend, the rush left service stations in rural areas forced to ration, while some ran dry, according to local reports. Trucking groups have raised concerns over supply outside urban areas, and caution that increased costs will be passed on.
“Our diesel supply depends heavily on refineries in South Korea, Japan and Singapore, and any interruption in their crude oil intake will flow through globally,” De Mello said. “There are few alternative sources.” Australia has about a month’s supply of diesel and jet fuel, and only slightly more gasoline, in storage for emergencies—well below the 90 days recommended by the International Energy Agency. That’s set to shrink further—with the government lowering the amount of fuel that bulk importers and refineries are required to hold in reserve by about a fifth last week, equivalent to about six days of nationwide sales.
The government has said there is enough fuel and that any shortages are because of stockpiling. It has also temporarily amended fuelquality standards to allow higher sulfur levels, adding more petrol to supply. Bloomberg
Those rising prices and shortages could have knock-on inflationary effects for the world, given the nation’s export-oriented mining and agricultural industries are among the biggest users of diesel. Health and transport are the other sectors most exposed to a fuel crunch, said Lurion De Mello, a senior lecturer in finance at Macquarie University.
Mark Villar
Iran war upheaval jolts shipping fuel suppliers in Singapore
By Serene Cheong & Rong Wei Neo
AWIDENING conflict in the Middle East has led to dramatic swings and surges in the price of fuel for ships, prompting distributors in Singapore, the world’s top bunkering hub, to cut back their purchases.
Bunker distributors typically buy large volumes of fuel oil and marine gasoil that they then resell to vessels calling at Singapore for refueling. However, several people directly involved in the trade said they had been holding off bigger orders since last week, citing extreme price fluctuations.
Their reluctance to bet on volatile prices—driven by disruption in the Persian Gulf, a region that is also a major supplier of fuel oil—has created an impression of tightness in the local market, despite local wholesale supply that is, for now, relatively comfortable by historic standards.
Some distributors are prioritizing preferred customers, and either trimming or canceling other sales as they ration their stock, the people said, adding some of those changes allow them to take advantage of rising prices in the spot market. They asked not to be named as they are not authorized to speak to the media.
Shipping is the backbone of the global economy and fuel oil underpins those flows, through the world’s biggest ships. That means higher costs for both feed through to food and other prices, driving up inflation globally.
Singapore’s ship-refueling industry relies on ample onshore and floating storage and a range of suppliers, making it more resilient than some other hubs—even with the prospect of more vessels heading to the citystate in order to avoid Fujairah, a hub in the United Arab Emirates favored by vessels sailing from the Atlantic basin, which has been subject to repeated attacks. Threats extending beyond the Persian Gulf may even put vessels off stops at Oman. Such shifts can be slow, as shipowners weigh up different routes, and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore said last week it had yet to observe significant changes. Stockpiles of residual fuels rose in the week to March 11, according to government data, hovering above the seasonal five-year average inventory for the grade. Even so, disruption caused by the war and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz means that the
Singapore’s ship-refueling industry relies on ample onshore and floating storage and a range of suppliers, making it more resilient than some other hubs— even with the prospect of more vessels heading to the city-state in order to avoid Fujairah, a hub in the United Arab Emirates favored by vessels sailing from the Atlantic basin, which has been subject to repeated attacks. Threats extending beyond the Persian Gulf may even put vessels off stops at Oman.
cost of very-low sulfur fuel oil in the city-state has more than doubled since February 27, rising more than 30 percent on certain days. Marine gasoil prices, meanwhile, have soared 160 percent during the same period. Both grades have far outperformed crude oil, which has risen more than 40 percent in the same period.
MPA said it was monitoring developments closely. “Singapore’s bunker supply comes from several sources. At present, there is adequate supply to meet demand,” it said, in an e-mailed statement. The nation’s hoard of middle distillate fuels, which include jet fuel and gasoil, is at its lowest since Nov. 2022, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Singapore jet fuel prices have doubled since the war began. Inventories of middle distillates held in Singapore tanks—which do not include commercial stockpiles used to support the aviation industry—were low even before the war, and have since dipped further. Marine gasoil makes up a niche, highperformance corner of the industry, as most large vessels run on fuel oil.
As of Monday, fuel oil and gasoil remained available to most distributors from terminal sellers, the people said. Purveyors were becoming stricter in terms of timing, quantities and other conditions, however, threatening to cancel volumes in the event of delays. With assistance from Nicholas Lua/Bloomberg
Trump’s delay of Xi visit echoes pattern of last-minute changes
By Catherine Lucey
PRESIDENT Donald Trump has long used last-minute switches on foreign travel and meetings with heads of state as he seeks to gain a diplomatic upper hand and keep foreign partners on their toes.
Trump’s request this week to delay a planned trip to China initially set for March 31 to April 2 is the latest example in a pattern of postponing or calling off highprofile meetings that he decides don’t suit his interests.
Throughout his first and second terms, he has enjoyed keeping allies and adversaries guessing about his travel plans. A few times, he’s changed his mind about his schedule in real time, often in an effort to display power, send a message to foreign capitals or to avoid embarrassment.
During his first term, Trump canceled a visit to Denmark when that country said Greenland wasn’t for sale, canceled a meeting with Vladimir Putin when the Russian president was already on the way and fueled will-theywon’t-they speculation before a get-together with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un.
The list keeps going.
This time around Trump initially floated a delay to a highly anticipated China summit during a weekend interview. He made the comment as he called on China and other countries to help him counter Iran’s blockage of the Strait of Hormuz since the war with the Islamic Republic began on Feb. 28. Subsequently, his aides were quick to say that Trump was not putting the meeting on ice to try to squeeze Chinese President Xi Jinping to help the US reopen the strait—a request few nations have heeded.
Then on Monday, Trump said he had to stay in the US because of the war.
“I want to be here. I have to be here, I feel. And so we requested that we delayed a month,” he said. “It’s very simple. We got a war going on. I think it’s important that I be here.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt earlier in the day told Fox News that the meeting wasn’t “in jeopardy, but it’s quite possible the meeting could be delayed.”
“It’s really just a matter of the timing,” she added.
China’s view STAKES for the summit were high after the US and China engaged in a trade war for much of last year. A delay could end up being a boon for China, which had requested a later date to allow more time for officials from both countries to work out details before the two leaders meet face-to-face.
China is willing to delay the summit given the already short preparation period and that uncertainty about the Iran war could create embarrassing moments, according to a person familiar with the matter.
China is still open to proceeding and there hasn’t yet been any formal communication from the US requesting a delay, said another person, who requested anonymity to discuss private talks. Logistical planning is continuing despite lack of clarity about when the event will occur, the person added.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
A number of factors for the postponement could be at play— Trump increasingly eschews travel and prefers world leaders come and pay tribute to him at the White House or at his Palm Beach estate. The American president, a former reality television star, enjoys keeping allies and adversaries alike in suspense about big decisions. And he is now consumed with a war he predicted would be a swift victory, with no clear end in sight and few nations prepared to join him in pursuing it.
Still for Trump, teasing a schedule change is part of a well-worn playbook. Much like he threatens—and sometimes reverses declarations—to levy tariffs or to exit international treaties, Trump sees his foreign visits as another way to barter with other countries.
“He delights in mixed messages,” said Republican strategist Matthew Bartlett, who added it remains unclear how much influence Trump truly has over China. “Leverage is a beautiful thing when you have and a brutal thing when
This time around Trump initially floated a delay to a highly anticipated China summit during a weekend interview. He made the comment as he called on China and other countries to help him counter Iran’s blockage of the Strait of Hormuz since the war with the Islamic Republic began on February 28. Subsequently, his aides were quick to say that Trump was not putting the meeting on ice to try to squeeze Chinese President Xi Jinping to help the US reopen the strait— a request few nations have heeded.
you think you have it and don’t,” he said.
Historical patterns
THIS isn’t even the first time Trump has publicly wavered on a meeting with Xi. Last fall before the two were scheduled to sit down at an international summit, he told reporters that “maybe it won’t happen.” Ultimately, that session did occur.
Sometimes Trump dangles a cancellation but does not follow through.
He memorably canceled a planned 2018 summit with North Korea’s Kim in Singapore amid pique over some fiery rhetoric from Pyongyang.
In a letter, the US president called it a “truly sad moment in history.” Yet he soon softened after a conciliatory statement from North Korea and the meeting was back on. Though the summit yielded no diplomatic breakthrough, he presented it a great success.
At other times, Trump cancels and holds firm, perhaps to avoid a meeting he thinks may be a problem or an embarrassment later. There was a planned visit to Denmark in 2019, which he said he would not do because the prime minister had “no interest in discussing the purchase of Greenland.” He also canceled a meeting with Putin at the 2018 Group of 20 meeting—when Putin was already en route—over Russia’s decision to fire on Ukrainian ships.
Trump scrapped plans in 2018 to travel to London for the opening of a new US embassy, saying he did not like the location. But
by doing so, he avoided coming in contact with potential protests. Early exits AT other moments, Trump has exited foreign engagements early, to enact pressure or express frustration.
Just last year, he left a meeting of the Group of Seven major economies in Canada ahead of schedule. Before that, in 2018 at another G-7 in Canada, Trump backed out of a joint communique after clashing with then Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and departed earlier than planned. He did it again in 2019, when he scrapped a press conference at the end of a Nato summit. That came after another a group of world leaders were caught on video mocking Trump. And in some moments, Trump has also deputized others to travel in his place, declining some trips at last minute.
In 2018, he canceled a trip to South America, citing a crisis in Syria, and sent Vice President Mike Pence. Again in 2019, Trump sent Pence to Poland for an event commemorating the 80th anniversary of the start of World War II, opting to stay in the US, where he furiously monitored a hurricane in real time sending out tweets and videos and at one point showing off a doctored map that did not match the projected path of the storm.
Last year, Trump declined to attend the Group of 20 nations in South Africa and initially said he would send Vice President JD Vance instead, but then decided to have no representation at all. Critics see these tactics as Trump imposing more chaos on the world stage. But he loves to keep everyone guessing by being predictably unpredictable. By weaponizing access, Trump underscores the value he places in person-to-person meetings. A self-branded dealmaker, he sees a meeting with the US president as a prize unto itself and has frequently teased other countries over trips and meetings throughout his first and second terms. Rarely do his get-togethers have the kind of extensive preparation that typically goes into such an event—or the same type of prearranged outcomes. With assistance from John Harney, Eric Martin and Colum Murphy/Bloomberg
Trump team applying pressure to media: Tell the war’s story the way we see it
By David Bauder | AP Media Writer
THROUGH lectures, scolding and outright threats, President Donald Trump and his aides are ratcheting up the pressure on journalists to cover the war in the Middle East the way the administration wants.
The president has fumed on social media about stories he doesn’t like and berated a reporter on Air Force One. The government’s top media regulator has warned that broadcasters risk losing their licenses if they don’t stay away from “fake news.” Trump and his defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, have both questioned the patriotism of news outlets because of their reporting.
Trump has complained about war coverage in both specific and general ways. In a social media post, he said news reports exaggerated the damage to planes that were attacked by Iran at an airport in Saudi Arabia. He attacked “Corrupt Media Outlets” for falling for AI-generated false reports created by Iran and said the media “hates to report” how well the US military has performed. All presidential administrations tangle with the press; it’s the natural byproduct of journalists’ watchdog roles in a democratic society. But the incidents of the past few days speak to a hostility toward the very idea
of being questioned—in a way that, some say, scratches up against the First Amendment itself.
A contentious gaggle on Air Force One
MEETING with reporters on Air Force One while returning to the White House from Florida late Sunday, the president objected to a question from ABC News’ Mariam Khan about a fundraising message that used a photo taken at last week’s dignified transfer ceremony of the remains of US service members. Khan was working as the pool reporter on the plane, but when she told Trump she was with ABC, he said: “I think it’s maybe the most corrupt news organization on the planet. I think they’re terrible.” Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr cited Trump’s Truth Social message about the planes struck in Saudi Arabia in warning news outlets to be careful about what they report. “Broadcasters that are running hoaxes and news distortions—also known as fake news—have a chance
now to correct course before their license renewals come up,” Carr wrote on X over the weekend. “The law is clear. Broadcasters must operate in the public interest, and they will lose their license if they do not.”
Decades of court decisions have generally sided with the press over government attempts to regulate the content it produces. But Carr said making changes is in the best interest of legacy media outlets because so many people don’t trust them. His ability to make changes, however, is limited.
The FCC does not regulate networks like CBS, NBC and ABC—although it does have the authority to reject the licenses of individual affiliates of those networks when they come up for renewal. Cable news networks CNN, Fox News Channel and MS NOW are not under the FCC’s purview. The Trump message that Carr retweeted mentioned only The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal specifically, and the FCC has no authority over newspapers.
Punishing a television affiliate for war coverage that Carr objects to is likely to run afoul of the law, noted First Amendment attorney Floyd Abrams in an interview Monday.
“The broadcast media is always at risk of a sort that newspapers are not. But at its core, they are protected by the First Amendment,” Abrams said, “and these statements by the chair-
Trump has complained about war coverage in both specific and general ways. In a social media post, he said news reports exaggerated the damage to planes that were attacked by Iran at an airport in Saudi Arabia. He attacked “Corrupt Media Outlets” for falling for AI-generated false reports created by Iran and said the media “hates to report” how well the US military has performed.
man seem to me are directly threatening First Amendment interests and First Amendment principles.” Abrams said he’d argue that robust war reporting is just the sort of public interest work that television stations should be doing to justify their licenses.
Intimidation may be Carr’s mot ive. And that doesn’t have to mean intimidating a news outlet to pull its punches, said Barbara Starr, a former CNN Pentagon correspondent. “The risk is the climate they create,” she said. “Are people going to be afraid to talk to reporters? Some of them will be, and that’s a serious matter.”
What kind of reporting is expected from ‘patriotic’ news outlets?
TRUMP said on social media that
he was thrilled to see Carr looking at the licenses of the “highly corrupt and highly unpatriotic ‘News’ organizations.” Their efforts were endorsed Monday by hosts of the influential “Fox & Friends” morning show on Fox News Channel.
“The president has said enough with this coverage, from other networks that are not telling you the truth, that are so negative about what is going on,” said Fox’s Ainsley Earhardt, without specifying the outlets she was referring to.
“This is a pro-America fight, and every network needs to get on board with that.”
Hegseth, in his most recent Pentagon war briefing, specifically attacked CNN. Under his administration, most legacy news outlets have been thrown out of their regular spaces in the Pentagon press room because they would not agree to his new rules that he said restricted their work. Some reporters from exiled outlets are allowed back for briefings, although Hegseth seldom takes their questions. Without an explanation, still photographers have been banned from briefings.
Hegseth said a CNN story about the administration being unprepared for Iranian attacks on the world’s oil supply was ridiculous. He offered his own edits of head -
lines that a “patriotic press” should use onscreen.
“The sooner that David Ellison takes over that network, the better,” Hegseth said, in reference to the Paramount Global chief, whose company is expected to take over ownership of CNN. The administration is hoping that will result in more Trump-friendly coverage.
Mark Thompson, CNN’s chief executive, said the network stands behind its work.
“Politicians have an obvious motive for claiming that journalism which raises questions about their decisions is false,” he said. “At CNN, our only interest is telling the truth to our audiences in the US and around the world, and no amount of political insults and threats is going to change that.” Starr, now retired from Pentagon reporting, said she sees journalists consistently breaking stories despite the limited access and hostility toward their work under the current administration.
“That has always been the case,” she said. “The level of intimidation has definitely ramped up and, in response to that, the commitment to the First Amendment and quality journalism has ramped up even further.” David Bauder writes about the intersection of media and entertainment for the AP.
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
2nd Front Page
BusinessMirror
GOVT IN TALKS WITH CHINA FOR FERTILIZER TO EASE PRICE WOES
By Ada Pelonia
THE government is in talks with China for additional fertilizer supply to ease price pressures from the Middle East war, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said Tuesday.
Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Executive Director Glenn Estrada, however, told the BusinessMirror that while the country’s current inventory of the input across six major grades remains sufficient until end-April, access to supply presents a risk.
“Immediate physical shortage is not the primary concern. Price volatility and supply access are emerging risks,” Estrada told this newspaper. “It’s not a supply issue, but more of how much—a price issue.”
To widen sources of the critical farm input, DA Undersecretary Roger Navarro said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. is talking to the Ambassador of China to allow fertilizer exports to the Philippines, after curbing its export shipments of the input.
“China has 285 days of fertilizer inventory, so we forwarded a request to them,” Navarro said at a House hearing of the Committee on Agriculture and Food on Tuesday.
Bloomberg recently reported, however, that China is tightening its curbs on fertilizer exports as the war in Iran disrupts trade of key crop nutrients, driving up
prices globally.
The forms part of its efforts to secure domestic supplies and stabilize prices as farmers in China gear up for spring planting and demand peaks.
Currently, the DA official said the country’s fertilizer stockpile stands at 3.12 million bags across six grades—urea, ammosul, complete fertilizer, ammophos, muriate of potash (MOP), and DAP. Broken down, Navarro said imported stocks of urea stands at 648,909 bags; ammosul at 879,782 bags; complete fertilizer at 678,476 bags; ammophos at 284,733 bags; MOP at 429,883 bags; and DAP at 200,000 bags.
He added that additional supplies of fertilizers across these grades are already in transit, particularly 13,600 bags for urea; 158,381 bags for ammosul; 320,000 bags for complete; 428,000 bags for ammophos, and 20,000 bags for MOP.
Based on FPA data, the average price of nearly all fertilizer grades per 50-kilo bag as of the first week of March registered an increase on a monthly basis.
The average price of prilled urea stood at P1,720.74 per 50-kilo bag from P1,631.61 per bag; granular urea at P1,675.23 from P1,599.69 per bag; ammosul at P876.45 from P818.57 per bag; complete at P1,680.42 from P1,578.32 per bag; ammophos at P1,497.45 from P1,435.19 per bag; and DAP at P2,724.61 from P2,559.76 per bag.
Govt ramps up oil buffer as excise tax bill clears Senate
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto & Butch Fernandez
FINANCE
Secretary Frederick D.
Go said on Tuesday the government is ramping up its oil buffer stock amid global oil supply disruptions, since recommending the reduction in fuel excise taxes to the President seems “too early” yet.
Also on Monday, senators, voting 17 in favor with zero objections and zero abstentions, voted on second and on third and final reading to approve Senate Bill 1982 authorizing the President to suspend or reduce the excise tax on petroleum products, moving the bill closer to enactment since it was earlier approved by the House of Representatives.
A presidential certification of the measure as urgent allowed the Senate to hold both second and third readings in quick succession, skirting the three-day gap rule.
Finance Secretary Go told reporters on the sidelines of the InvestPH forum on Tuesday that the Philippine National Oil Company Exploration Corp. is moving to acquire
2 million barrels of oil as a precautionary measure to add to the country’s buffer stock.
“We recognize that there are things beyond our control. But we will not be defined by what we cannot change. Our focus is on what we can influence—the reforms we implement, the programs we launch, and the decisions we make domestically,” Go said in his speech during the forum.
As oil prices continue to increase and volatility is expected in the near term, Go said the government has interventions ready.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. certified as urgent the bill granting him authority to suspend or reduce excise taxes on petroleum products during national or global
Plane fares go up on fuel surcharge hike
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
TLevel 4. For Filipinos flying abroad, the jump is sharper. At Level 8, international fuel surcharge ceilings from the Philippines range from P835.05 for nearby destinations such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Brunei, to P1,154.89 for Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and Guam, and P1,299.02 for Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, India, and Port Moresby. Those bound for the Middle East—a critical corridor for overseas Filipino workers—face a ceiling of P2,873.32, while
P6,208.98. All are per passenger, one-way.
A fuel surcharge serves as a temporary relief measure granted to airlines to help them recover additional costs from higher jet fuel prices. Fuel expenses account for over 60 percent of airline operating costs.
Data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) as of March 13 show global jet fuel averaging $175.00 per barrel—up 11.2 percent in a single week, 82.8 percent above the prior month’s average, and nearly double the price seen a year ago. Passengers who have already purchased tickets and need to rebook should note that under existing CAB rules, the fuel surcharge will be adjusted to the rate prevailing at the time of rebooking—not the rate when the original ticket was purchased. Those with unused tickets that are fully refunded are entitled to a full refund of the fuel surcharge collected.
economic emergencies.
“The Senate draft bill is completely aligned with the position of the Department of Finance. So we would be very supportive of the draft bill when the Senate is coming forward,” Go said.
Asked for DOF’s plans in offsetting the potential revenue shortfall of the measure, Go said: “Obviously, we’ve only entered the 17th day of the war. So I think it’s probably too early for us to say that the [Development Budget Coordination Committee] will recommend to the President to reduce excise taxes on fuel.”
The Finance secretary, who cochairs the DBCC, explained that fuel excise taxes can only be reduced if Dubai crude exceeds $80 a barrel for a period of 30 days.
The Department of Energy will have to certify that the country is entering a national urgent situation and then the DBCC will have to recommend to the President to reduce the fuel taxes, Go added.
IN a statement on Tuesday, Action for Economic Reforms (AER) said the government should pursue providing subsidies to essential sectors that directly affect lower-income groups,
particularly public transportation, instead of suspending fuel taxes.
Citing estimates from the DOF that suspending fuel excise taxes could result in revenue losses of about P136 billion from May to December 2026, AER said the measure carries “serious fiscal risks.”
“Such a large loss in government revenues would significantly weaken fiscal space at a time when the country is already facing mounting budget pressures,” AER stressed.
Suspending the fuel tax is also regressive as the main beneficiaries would be higher-income households or the top 10 percent, who account for a disproportionate share of fuel consumption, AER added.
“A tax suspension is a blunt instrument that fails to stabilize prices and primarily benefits those who consume the most fuel,” it said.
To help moderate fuel consumption while global supply conditions remain tight, AER suggested complementary measures that reduce fuel demand, such as encouraging work-from-home arrangements or temporary hybrid setups in schools and offices.
Policymakers should also consider measures that widen the fiscal space, such as further strengthening health
Top PHL firms ready to hike spending to boost economy
TBy VG Cabuag
HE country’s largest conglomerates said they are r eady to step up their investments in the country as a m eans to prop up the economy amid the war in the Middle East which sent oil prices soaring.
Teresita T. Sy-Coson, SM Investments Corp. vice chairman s aid, the company’s spending plans will continue as outlined, but she acknowledged that its operational expenses may rise.
“So, we just have to make our business more efficient, lower our margins, to survive this temporary (Middle East crisis). And I would like to think that it’s temporary, and I can see from the survey, I think most of us are optimistic that it’s not going to take very long. We need prayers for that,” Sy-Coson said during the Philippine Stock Exchange’s InvestPH conference.
“ I hope it’s temporary and so that we can prepare for the better days,” she said.
J aime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Ayala Corp. chairman, said h is major concern is not the current fuel prices but the prospect o f oil supply drying up, which happened in the 1970s.
“Everyone has to make sure that we don’t have a situation that we move back to which was really a drying up of supply (leading) to a voucher system that would really have a big effect on all of us. We’re not there y et, and chances are high (that it would happen again),” Zobel said.
Zobel said he is optimistic that things would turn around, eventually.
Sy-Coson noted that the Philippines has a very a stable banking system, and that the banks a re ready to fund capital investments of the private sector.
“ I mean, if the government is not spending, I think the private sector can step up. True,
t here is a lot of (happening) this time, but we can always prepare for the upswing in the future,” she said. She, however, cautioned that the central bank may raise its rates soon, as costs rise.
“It will become natural that they will have to increase it (interest rates) because of the interest rate in the different countries will rise due to the difficulties that we have,” she said.
Manuel V. Pangilinan, chairman, president and CEO of Metro Pacific Investments Corp., s aid the company is re-doing its budget due to the Middle East war. He said costs would definitely become higher, though he could not give any targets for the companies that his group operates. I hope that this is temporary, so we just prepare for the better days,” Pangilinan said.
“I think we should push more for the sake of this country, continue to invest as much as we can.”
He said he still sees opportunity in tough times like these, a s people turn to basic items.
“You still need lights, you still need power, you need food. So you go back to basics. You cannot live without water, power, e specially for your cell phones, but you should look at new opportunities,” he said.
TODA
TERESITA
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
B1 Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Lower energy prices, cement unit’s losses cut DMCI profit
By VG Cabuag @villygc
DMCI Holdings Inc., the holding firm of the Consunji Group, on Tuesday said its net income last year fell 20 percent to P15.1 billion from P19 billion in 2024 due to “normalizing contributions” from the integrated energy business and losses of its cement segment.
The strong performance of the real estate, construction, water, nickel mining and off-grid power businesses helped partly offset the decline, the company said.
For the fourth quarter, consolidated net income reached P3.3 billion, down 14 percent from P3.8 billion, as lower contributions from the integrated energy business and cement operations weighed on results, alongside the dilution of the group’s effective attributable ownership in Maynilad Water Services Inc., following its successful initial public offering in November.
For the full year, Semirara Mining
and Power Corp. (SMPC) remained the group’s largest contributor with P7.3 billion, down 33 percent from P11.1 billion last year, on softer energy prices, reduced shipments and higher production costs.
Record coal production, power generation, and energy sales helped temper the impact of normalizing prices.
Associate Maynilad contributed P3.7 billion, up 11 percent from P3.3 billion, driven by approved tariff adjustments, stable billed connections, and improved network efficiencies.
DMCI Homes Inc. posted P3.3 billion in contributions, up 14 per-
cent from P2.7 billion, supported by higher residential revenues, increased rental and finance income, and a one-off gain from the settlement of a claim involving a previous investment.
DMCI Power, the off-grid power generator, delivered its record contribution of P1.3 billion, up 1 percent from P1.2 billion, supported by record energy sales and capacity expansions in Palawan and Antique.
DMCI Mining contributed P924 million, more than triple from P246 million in the previous year, driven by nickel price recovery, higher output from its Zambales operations and initial operations of the Long Point mine. The company also achieved record nickel ore production at 2.0 million wet metric tons during the year.
Construction firm D.M. Consunji Inc. reported P284 million in contributions, slightly higher than P247 million, driven by higher construction accomplishments from new projects, partly offset by increased costs related to project delays.
Cement firm Concreat Holdings Philippines Inc. recorded a net loss of P1.9 billion, on higher financing expenses, and lower average selling prices. The company said it has
implemented operational improvements to strengthen its position for recovery.
For 2026, DMCI has earmarked P24.6 billion in capital expenditures for its subsidiaries, up 11 percent from P22.2 billion in 2025, mainly to support residential construction, expansion in the off-grid power and improvements in cement operations.
DMCI Homes is expected to account for 65 percent of aggregate capital expenditures, with up to P15.5 billion allocated for ongoing and new project construction and land banking, depending on market conditions.
DMCI Power plans to spend P3.3 billion to fund 44 megawatts of new capacity in Palawan, Occidental Mindoro and Calapan.
Concreat has set aside P2.9 billion for plant capacity improvements, operational upgrades and preventive maintenance, while SMPC has allocated P1.9 billion largely for power plant maintenance.
The remaining capital expenditures will support the re-fleeting of construction equipment and project requirements at DMCI at P675 million and DMCI Mining’s mine development initiatives at P300 million.
LNG price spikes worry consortium
ABy Lenie Lectura @llectura
TOP official of LNGPH, the country’s major integrated liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal and power facility project in Batangas, raised serious concerns about the escalation of conflict in the Middle East, saying this creates significant upward pressure on prices.
“I think the best word for us is concerning. Among the panelists here, we are the only LNG to power business. And so, since the conflict started, we’ve seen a significant rise in prices. And second, we’ve also seen some uncertainty in our supply of fuel,” LNGPH Chief Executive
Officer Yari Miralao said during a forum hosted by the Makati Business Club on Tuesday. LNGPH is backed by the country’s major power firms—Pangilinan-led Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN), Aboitiz Power Corp., and San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp. LNGPH accounts for about 20 percent of Luzon’s base load requirements and 30 percent of Luzon’s supply distributed by Meralco in its franchise areas.
“Our biggest concern is really the price or the impact on consumers and then second, security of supply,” said Miralao. “From a fuel perspective, we get supply from portfolio suppliers, meaning they have supply from all
ALIBABA Group Holding
Ltd. is setting up a business unit to bring its sprawling AI services and development endeavors under a single umbrella, signaling its determination to profit off artificial intelligence.
The company is moving the research team that develops its flagship Qwen models, the consumer-facing app division, as well as major AI-related products into a unit headed by Chief Executive Officer Eddie Wu. Simply called Alibaba Token Hub, the new division will also oversee Alibaba’s Slack-like DingTalk app and devices under the Quark brand such as smart glasses, Wu said in a memo to employees reviewed by Bloomberg News.
San Miguel Global Power could net up to P29.64 billion from the offer.
Proceeds will be used for the refinancing of debt obligations and partial funding of the company’s renewable energy projects. VG Cabuag
The revamp comes as Alibaba grapples with questions about its AI strategy following the recent sudden departure of Qwen’s star research lead. The idea is to quicken interaction between the various teams that underpin Alibaba’s broader effort, from researchers to product development and design. It also signals the company’s clear emphasis on monetizing AI: the division’s name is a direct refer -
over the world. But these portfolio suppliers cannot escape the fact that 20 percent of LNG comes from the Middle East. And so, they’re probably also concerned about meeting all of their obligations.”
Contingency plans are being drawn up in preparation for possible supply disruptions. Miralao said this include tapping supply from Russia and increasing storage capacity to accommodate additional supply.
“In terms of emergency or contingency, right now we are two things. One is we’re diversifying supply or geographically diversifying our supply outside of the Middle East, and that’s why we’re
ence to the units of computing that companies charge users.
Its shares rose as much as 3.4 percent in Hong Kong Tuesday, outperforming the market. Alibaba didn’t say whether it will earmark new investment along with the overhaul, intended also to sharpen its sales pitch to enterprise AI customers and propel the adoption of Qwen—the GPT-like model that helped establish Alibaba among China’s early frontrunners.
Domestic AI aspirants from Alibaba to MiniMax Group Inc. are finding it harder than Western rivals such as OpenAI to translate AI advances into profit, given Chinese consumers’ reluctance to pay for software subscriptions. Most Chinese models are open-source and free to download, creating a wide disparity in revenue between the nation’s leading developers and US peers such as Anthropic PBC.
“ATH is built around a single organizing mission: create tokens, deliver tokens, and apply tokens,” Wu said in the memo. “I will lead ATH directly, with a mandate to drive strategic coordination across our AI businesses, embed AI deeply
exploring Russian gas as well as US gas sources.
And in addition to that, another major theme for us is to increase our storage capacity so that in case there are interruptions in supply or delays that come forward, then we have additional buffer to withstand those impacts as well,” he said.
The facility combines the capacities of the 1,200-megawatt (MW) South Premiere Power Corp. (SPPC) and the 1,275-MW Excellent Energy Resources Inc. (EERI) combinedcycle gas-fired power plants. Last year, LNGPH signed a 10-year deal with Vitol Asia for the supply of up to 800,000 tons per annum of LNG for the terminal.
into how we work, and preserve the agility that lets us move fast.”
Alibaba, scheduled to report quarterly results on Thursday, had mostly focused on selling enterprise-facing AI and cloud computing solutions before revamping its Qwen app last year for consumers. But the app still lags behind competitor ByteDance Ltd.’s Doubao, despite spending billions of yuan in “red packet” consumer promotions during last month’s Lunar New Year holiday. With the latest restructuring, Alibaba is likely diverting more resources back to its enterprise-facing businesses.
Alibaba on Tuesday announced a dedicated agentic AI service for businesses, its latest attempt to tap national enthusiasm around artificial intelligence assistants like OpenClaw that help users perform actual tasks. Dubbed Wukong—named after the nearall-powerful Monkey King of Chinese mythology - the service uses Alibaba’s flagship Qwen model. It’s tailor-made for enterprises with built-in data security mechanisms, executives said at a launch event, confirming an earlier Bloomberg News report.
ONLINE gaming firm DigiPlus Interactive Corp. on Tuesday said its net income last year was flat at P12.6 billion compared with the P12.58 billion recorded in 2024, while its fourthquarter profit dropped due to regulatory challenges and “a competitive landscape.”
Revenues for the year rose 12 percent to P84.2 billion from P75.2 billion in 2024, as its strong performance in the first half of 2025 offset the decline in activity, such as the delinking of e-wallet in-app access to licensed online gaming platforms in the third quarter.
In 2025, the company said it remitted P34.6 billion in taxes and regulatory fees to the government.
“Despite a challenging and evolving industry landscape, DigiPlus delivered a resilient performance in 2025, reflecting the strength of our platforms, disciplined execution, and the trust of our users,” DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco said.
“As we look ahead, we remain optimistic about our growth trajectory and are confident in our ability to continue innovating responsibly while creating long-term value.”
In the fourth quarter of 2025, net income dropped 36 percent year-onyear to P2.5 billion. Revenues for the quarter also plunged by 27 percent to P17.3 billion from the previous P23.7 billion recorded in 2024.
On a quarter-on-quarter basis, revenues declined 9 percent from P19.1 billion in the third quarter, which reflected only a partial impact from the regulatory adjustment. Net income increased 43 percent quarter-on-quarter from P1.7 billion.
DigiPlus ended the year with P23.4 billion in cash and cash equivalents, while debt remained at P745.8 million. The company’s strong net cash position and stable profitability allowed it to declare dividends for the third year in a row. The company’s board also approved the declaration of a cash dividend amounting to a total of P3.8 billion, equivalent to 30 percent of full-year 2025 consolidated net income attributable to shareholders, or P0.83 per outstanding common share. The dividends will be payable on or before April 15 to shareholders on record as of April 1. VG Cabuag
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio @blessogerio
NISSAN Motor Co. has appointed a new head for its Philippine operations as part of a broader leadership reshuffle across its Southeast Asian business.
The company said Yoshinori Kanazawa will assume the role of president of Nissan Philippines effective April 1, replacing Masao Tsutsumi, who has been promoted to president of Nissan Asean and Thailand.
Tsutsumi, in turn, succeeds Toshihiro Fujiki, who has moved to a global role as corporate executive for aftersales at Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.
Kanazawa currently serves as managing director of the Nissan Importers Business Unit for ASEAN and managing director of Nissan Singapore International, based in Thailand.
He has overseen importer operations across Southeast Asia and worked with regional partners to support market development in the Asean region. Moreover, he brings nearly 20
years of experience within Nissan, with assignments spanning Japan, China and other international markets. His background covers corporate planning, product planning and dealer network development. Prior to his current post, Kanazawa held senior roles in Nissan’s China operations and its joint ventures, where he was involved in strategic planning and the expansion of dealer networks.
The company expressed appreciation for Tsutsumi’s leadership during his tenure in the Philippines, noting his contributions to the business as he transitions to a regional role. Kanazawa’s appointment remains subject to his qualification under Philippine laws and confirmation by the Nissan Philippines board of directors, after which his formal inauguration will proceed. Separately, industry data showed that Nissan ranked fourth among automotive brands in January, with a 4.72-percent market share, based on consolidated figures from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. and the Truck Manufacturers Association.
Govt agencies’ use of cash in ’25 low despite higher release
DESPITE the government’s higher cash releases in 2025, state agencies still posted a lower utilization rate, according to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
Latest data from the DBM showed that agencies utilized 97.7 percent of their cash allocations, slower than the 99 percent posted in the previous year.
This translates to P4.846 trillion out of the P4.961 trillion in notices of cash allocation (NCAs) released by the DBM, leaving P114.526 billion unused as of end-December 2025.
The total NCAs released were 1.18 percent higher than the P4.903 trillion disbursed in 2024.
An NCA is a disbursement authority issued by the DBM to government agencies to pay their operating expenses, purchases of supplies and materials, as well as programs and projects.
A higher NCA utilization rate shows the capacity of line agencies to timely disburse their allocated funds and implement their programs and projects.
Broken down, line departments used 97 percent, or P3.565 trillion out of the P3.677 trillion released.
Only the Judiciary and the Office of the Ombudsman posted a 100-percent NCA utilization rate, fully using their P63.003 billion and P5.513 billion allocations, respectively.
In contrast, the Office of the President recorded the lowest NCA utilization rate at 66.2 percent, or P10.213 billion out of the P15.421 billion in NCAs freed up.
NCAs released to governmentowned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) dropped by 17.99 percent to P121.357 billion from P147.992 billion a year earlier, with utilization at 99.2 percent. Further, allocations to local government units (LGUs) jumped by 12.50 percent to P1.161 trillion in 2025 from P1.032 trillion in 2024. About 99.9 percent or P1.160 trillion was utilized. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
TBanking&Finance
BTr falls short of target for bond sale
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
THE Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) managed to raise half of what it intended to borrow from local investors despite the 10-year bond yield rising by 80 basis points (bps) on Tuesday.
For the second time this month, the Treasury partially accepted bids for Treasury bonds (T-bonds)—this time the 10-year tenor—and raised P10.207 billion.
The amount is P9.793-billion
short of the Treasury’s target as investors, jittery with risks from an escalating conflict in the Middle East, maintained positions to seek higher returns.
Tenders for the 10-year debt
papers reached P23.296 billion, or 1.2 times oversubscribed the P20billion offering. Demand is much lower than the P72.665 billion tendered in the previous 10-year T-bond auction.
“There were no buyers; that’s why the government was forced to take the higher bid rates,” Michael Gerard D. Enriquez, president of Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corp., told the BusinessMirror last Tuesday.
Awarded rates for the 10-year Tbonds ranged from as low as 6.775 percent to as high as 6.8 percent.
The average yield settled at 6.786 percent, which is 80.1- bps higher than the 5.985 percent recorded in the previous auction for the same tenor last January 6.
“If the 10-year breaks above 6 percent, then we may see yields continue to move higher. It also depends on how the Middle East crisis will unfold in the next few days,” Enriquez added.
Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., added the increase in the bond yields was influenced by surging oil prices and growing inflation concerns, with peso weakness adding pressure.
“[This is] also amid relatively higher long-end bond yields in some developed countries worldwide in recent weeks/months amid concerns over long-term inflation if the [US Federal Reserve] becomes more aggressive in cutting rates in the coming months,” Ricafort said.
Lone lawmaker votes against abolishing travel tax
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE House of Representatives moved a step closer to abolishing the travel tax after approving on third and final reading last Monday night House Bill (HB) 8464, or the proposed Travel Tax Abolition Act of 2026, with 257 lawmakers voting in favor, one against, and one abstaining.
According to lawmakers, the measure reflects how air travel has evolved for Filipinos—from a luxury enjoyed by a few into a necessity for many who now fly for work, education, family reunions, and urgent personal needs.
House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander A. Marcos (1st District Ilocos Norte) said the bill directly responds to this shift.
The bill seeks to abolish the travel tax imposed under Presidential Decree 1183, as amended, and Section 73 of Republic Act 9593 (Tourism Act of 2009), thereby removing the legal basis for the levy imposed on outbound travelers.
Supporters of the measure said the move would ease the financial burden on passengers, noting that the travel tax has long been an added cost on top of airfare and other travel-related expenses.
Nay vote
CALOOCAN City Rep. Edgar R. Erice, who voted against the proposed abolition of the travel tax, cited serious concerns about the measure’s potential impact on local tourism and government revenue.
In his earlier interpellation, Erice warned that
eliminating the tax could encourage more Filipinos to travel abroad, where trips may be cheaper t han domestic destinations.
“If going to other countries becomes cheaper—for example, a trip to Vietnam costs only P8,000 to P10,000, while going to Cebu ranges from P12,000 to P15,000—Filipinos may prefer traveling overseas,” he added.
Romblon Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona, chairman of the House Committee on Tourism, responded by saying “there are still many beautiful destinations in our country that our citizens should visit.”
Erice also echoed the appeal from the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza) to remove the tax gradually as the agency needs to find alternative funding sources.
The lawmaker also flagged the failure to consult representatives of the Commission on Higher Education.
“We cannot operate independently of the executive. We cannot rely solely on studies from one agency, especially if the Department of Finance (DOF) itself says their studies are not yet complete regarding whether abolishing the travel tax w ill benefit our economy,” Erice said.
He emphasized that many ongoing projects and programs rely on revenue from the travel tax, and these initiatives could be disrupted if the tax is removed.
Representatives of the DOF and DBM assured lawmakers they would coordinate with the concerned agencies to address their funding requirements once the tax is abolished.
Sustaining funding
HB 8464 warrants that no travel tax shall be collected by any government agency or private entity.
T he bill also provides safeguards for passengers during the transition period. For flights scheduled on or after the law’s effectivity, authorities are required to refund any previously paid travel tax to affected travelers.
Recognizing that several government programs currently rely on travel tax revenues, the measure mandates the national government to provide funding through the annual General Appropriations Act (GAA) to sustain these initiatives.
T he tax shores up roughly P8 billion annually to government coffers.
The Tieza, the CHEd and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) for the National Endowment Fund for Culture and the Arts are among those that will continue to receive funding.
To ensure a smooth transition, the bill directs the Tieza, in coordination with the Department of Budget and Management, to issue t he implementing rules and regulations within 60 days from the law’s approval, including provisions on refunds and the shift to GAAbased funding.
The measure also includes standard legal provisions such as a repealing clause, a separability c lause, and an effectivity clause stating that the law will take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.
The average rate of the T-bonds was also higher by 4.4 bps than the secondary market rate of 6.742 percent for a 10-year bond.
The debt papers have a remaining life of nine years and nine months and a coupon rate of 5.925 percent.
This March, the Treasury will raise as much as P248 billion from the sale of government securities. Of the amount, P108 billion will be borrowed through the issuance of Treasury bills, while P140 billion will come from T-bonds. For the whole year, the government will raise a total of P2.682 trillion, of which 77 percent will be sourced locally while the remaining 23 percent will come from foreign sources.
Economists warn vs stagflation risk as factors merge
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE Philippines faces a “looming, inevitable” risk of stagflation as rising inflation pressures collide with weakening growth, according to economists from De La Salle University (DLSU).
The warning comes as policymakers confront a more difficult balancing act, with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) seen having fewer clear options as conditions tighten.
In its March 2026 report, the economists wrote that the economy is being squeezed by three forces at once: tighter credit, higher oil prices, and delays in infrastructure spending. These are simultaneously weighing on investment, reducing household purchasing power, and slowing overall activity.
The economists noted that even the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev) have already acknowledged the softer outlook, with growth now seen potentially falling below 5 percent this year.
At the same time, inflation risks are building. The report cited the ongoing conflict in the Middle East as a key source of uncertainty, with oil prices rising and possibly reaching $140 per barrel.
Higher fuel costs are expected to cascade into transport and food prices, adding pressure on both consumers and businesses.
“We really must ramp up protection against sa phishing, SIM swapping, and other forms of online scam,” Villar was quoted as saying in a statement.
HE main author of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (Afasa) seeks government adoption of stronger security measures by June 30, hoping for better protection of people from online scams and unauthorized financial transactions. Sen. Mark A. Villar said last Tuesday he considers the directive of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) requiring banks and financial institutions to phase out SMS one-time passwords (OTPs) “an important step toward making digital banking safer for everyone.”
With this important shift in online commercial transactions, the BSP will now mandate the use of advanced authentication methods, including biometrics, fingerprint or facial recognition, in-app approvals, push notifications, device-based verification, and other security tools that are harder for scammers to exploit.
protect our people is most time,” Villar said, partly in Filipino.
The lawmaker also expressed optimism as the country continues to harness the fruits of the Afasa.
“All transactions are now digital, as well as the fraudulent practices of scammers and hackers, so this BSP move to better protect transactions online and better
A decade of caring, sharing and empowering
“One decade down; forever to go.”
PROFESSIONAL organizations are meant to serve as platforms for professional development and networking. The Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (Finex) has gone beyond the core of the usual reason for being of similar organizations. Through the working committees at Finex Research and Development Foundation, outreach initiatives are undertaken.
One sustained project at the Social Involvement Committee (SIC) is sharing basic knowledge and experience among the not so privileged members of the society and the general public at large in the last ten years.
Departing from the usual doleout initiatives to certain groups of the underprivileged and those affected by disasters, the SIC chose a different path eleven years ago. It has embarked on sharing basic knowledge and experience on the Finex members’ core competency: financial literacy. The approach has been holistic, featuring the importance
of family, education, cooperation, communication, and savings, while keeping focus on the values and priorities that matter most.
The seminar/webinar modules cover basic topics to include basic financial literacy, investments, entrepreneurship, basic recordkeeping, and bookkeeping. Aside from developing the modules, “caselettes” featuring real life stories with financial aspects have been developed and used for the participants to discuss among themselves and present to the entire group of attendees. More than 25 “caselettes” are in the team’s docket. The conduct of the sessions highlights the participants’ understanding of what are shared by the resource speakers and their personal take on the “caselette” story
based on their own experience. For better connection and meaningful engagement, the sessions were conducted in Filipino or in the local language/ dialect best understood and appreciated by the attendees.
Aside from delivering inter-active sessions with seminar/webinar attendees, the SIC has published “A Handbook on Personal Finance” in 2021 and the Filipino translated version “Gabay sa Wastong Pamamahala ng Pera” in 2023.
To date, the advocacy has covered 141 seminars/webinars with about 10,200 attendees from all over the country. The sectors covered include the informal settlers relocated in different resettlement areas, the men and women in uniform—the members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Air Forces of the Philippines (PAF)—those deprived of liberty about to be released in three months, private school faculty and staff, public school teachers, public school students, members of micro-financing foundations, retirees, staff of a major bus company, women farmers, the
Villar gave assurances that lawmakers will continue to monitor the implementation of the Afasa to conserve resources of the people while ensuring that criminals are punished.
poorest of the poor, and more.
For the Finex members behind the advocacy, the sharing of knowledge and experience is the best way to give back to society by conducting the seminars/webinars for free. All resource persons/speakers provide their time, expertise and experience without remuneration and even using their own resources.
After ten years of advocacy, both the attendees to the sessions and those who delivered the sessions have learned from each other. The SIC team appreciates more the state of affairs of the attendees and their dynamics while the attendees got a pause from their busy lives to learn and rethink their chosen pathways. Looking back, the decade of advocacy has represented a sustained long term commitment to share knowledge and experience by those who believe that sharing is caring for it empowers the recipients.
The decade long advocacy would not have been sustained without the support from the governance of the Finex Foundation, the staff and the Finex members of the SIC
According to the Investopedia website, stagflation is “particularly troublesome because the traditional tools that address one problem typically worsen the others.”
“Tightening monetary policy (increasing interest rates) to fight inflation typically slows growth and thus increases unemployment, while stimulus measures (increasing government spending) to boost growth may accelerate inflation since that increases demand, putting pressure on prices.”
team and the partner organizations to include the following: Children’s Hour Foundation; Consuelo “Chito” Madrigal Foundation; PNP; AFP; PAF; Special Forces; Scout Rangers; Pag-IBIG Fund; Coalition of Services for the Elderly; Unang Hakbang Foundation; Women Biz Council; QC Bangsamoro Muslim Community; Philippine Consulting Center Inc.; Subic Bay Development and Industrial Corp.; Armscor Global Defense Inc.; Zonta Club Bel Air; Gigawatt Power Group of Companies; Team Energy Group of Companies; Baler Hotel; Resort and Restaurant Owners Association Inc.; Asosasyon ng mga Retiradong Sundalo; Panlalawigan ng Aurora Inc.; Servants of Charity; Episcopal Church Women; Diocese of Paranaque; Ad Standard Council; Department of Education, Culture and Sports; the City Jail of Manila; Tulay sa Pag-unlad Foundation; Ahon sa Hirap Foundation; Agrea; ASA Foundation; Metro Retail; University of San Carlos; Development Center for Finance; Zonta Club of Manila; Saint Theresa’s Alumni Association; and, the University of Asia and the Pacific.
With worthy partner organizations, the journey has been a great ongoing collaboration with organizations that share the mindset to care, share and empower our countrymen. In celebration of the ten years of advocacy, a recognition ceremony for the partners of the Foundation in Basic Financial Literacy will be held on April 8, 2026 at Makati Sports Club. It will be an auspicious occasion to look back and reminisce a decade long advocacy in personal finance. May the initiative continue to thrive for many more decades to come.
“We
Conchita L. Manabat
Image BusinessMirror
Unwritten rules of gett ing ahead
YOU probably began your career believing that hard work would speak for itself. You focused on results, met deadlines, and assumed that performance alone would carry you forward. Then reality introduced you to work politics. You noticed that visibility sometimes mattered more than effort, that influence could outweigh logic, and that not everyone celebrated your wins. Navigating this landscape does not require cynicism. It requires awareness, strategy, and emotional discipline.
Start with perception. Performance matters, but perception often decides opportunities. You can deliver excellent work, yet if decision-makers do not see or understand your contribution, your effort may fade into the background. This does not mean self-promotion without substance. It means communicating your value clearly. You should share progress updates and highlight measurable results. During meetings, and when a project succeeds, summarize the impact and your role in achieving it. Make it easy for decision-makers to connect your name with significant outcomes.
Closely related to perception is reputation. Your reputation often enters the room before you do. Colleagues form impressions based on how you handle pressure, how you treat support staff, and how you respond to feedback. Every interaction adds a small detail to the story people tell about you. Protect that story. If you make a mistake, acknowledge it promptly and correct it. If you commit to a deadline, meet it or communicate early if circumstances change. Consistency builds trust, and trust builds influence.
As you strengthen your reputation, pay attention to relationships. Allies often matter more than arguments. Logic alone rarely wins a debate if the room lacks trust. Invest time in understanding your colleagues beyond tasks. Learn their priorities, constraints, and motivations. Offer help without immediately expecting a return. When conflict arises, approach it privately and respectfully rather than performing disagreement in public. When people feel respected, they are more likely to support your ideas during critical moments.
Information is another form of power. In many workplaces, information functions as currency. Knowing which projects are gaining traction, which leaders are championing change, and which deadlines are non-negotiable allows you to position your work strategically. Stay informed by attending cross functional meetings when possible. Read internal updates carefully. Build relationships across departments. However, use information responsibly. Share insights that help the team succeed rather than gossip that erodes trust.
While building alliances and staying informed, remember that loyalty in organizations is often conditional. Companies evolve, leadership changes, and priorities shift. Blind loyalty can leave you vulnerable. This does not mean you should be disloyal or opportunistic. It means you should remain
By Eugenia Last
adaptable. Continue learning new skills, document your achievements, and maintain professional networks beyond your immediate team. Your long term stability depends on your growth, not solely on any single leader’s favor.
Power dynamics shape many decisions, whether acknowledged openly or not. Power often protects itself. Leaders may prioritize maintaining authority over embracing the best idea. Recognize this without resentment. When presenting a proposal, consider how it affects the interests of those who hold influence. Frame your ideas in a way that aligns with organizational goals and leadership priorities. Ask for input before formal presentations so key stakeholders feel included rather than threatened.
Silence can be a strategic choice. You do not need to comment on every issue or join every debate. Observe patterns. Notice who speaks first, who supports whom, and which topics trigger tension. There are moments when speaking up demonstrates courage and clarity. There are other moments when listening provides valuable insight. Choose your timing intentionally. When you do speak, be concise and
focused on solutions rather than criticism.
Finally, do not ignore politics and hope it disappears. Avoiding workplace dynamics can limit your growth. You can choose to see politics as manipulation, or you can see it as the study of human behavior within structured systems. When you understand the system, you can move within it more effectively. You can advocate for your ideas, protect your well-being, and contribute meaningfully without becoming cynical.
Navigating work politics is less about playing games and more about understanding people. You operate in environments shaped by ambition, fear, pride, and aspiration, where recognition and resources can feel limited. When you respond with awareness rather than naivety, you gain the power to choose when to speak, listen, align, or stand firm. You do not need to change who you are, but you do need clarity. By managing perception, protecting your reputation, building strong alliances, and respecting power dynamics, you reduce conflict and create space for your work to be recognized while protecting your
A JUNE 2025 briefing paper of the World Economic Forum, titled Philippines Jobs Accelerator: Key Opportunities for Public-Private Collaboration, cites that the Philippines ranks 16th among countries where employers identify skills gaps and mismatches in the labor market. The paper elaborates that employers report shortages of workers with digital, managerial, and technical skills. For Filipino working students who are already sacrificing so much to achieve career and financial success, this fact is a powerful reminder: grit alone isn’t enough in a shifting economy. To truly bridge the gap between their current hustle and their future goals, access to industry-aligned, high-demand skills is no longer just an advantage—it is a necessity.
“We launched the Step Up sa Pangarap movement in 2022 to increase awareness of the challenges these working students face, especially in today’s evolving job market. As a learning institution, we understand how significant upskilling
Working students are stepping up: Celebrating National Working Students Day on March 21 SEE “STUDENTS,” B5
22): Pick up the pace, and don’t stop until you are happy with what you achieve. Take a unique approach to whatever you do, and it will become your signature. Looking and acting like a leader will grab positive attention. A financial gain looks promising, and the option to expand your interests will ease stress and boost confidence.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Embrace what life has to offer. Stretch yourself to meet demands and show everyone what you can do. High energy, enthusiasm and empathy will carry you forward with gratitude. Stop waiting for someone else to make the first move. It’s up to you to bring about change. Trying to buy love will lead to being taken advantage of. ★★★
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Fixate on completion. Whether it’s home improvements, personal growth or nurturing partnerships, living up to your promises and following through on your plans will set you apart from those who say a lot but do nothing. A lifestyle change will encourage you to trust your judgment over others’ and to make choices that ease stress and enhance comfort. ★★★
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Put a positive spin on your day. Use your brainpower and physical ability, along with discipline, to get things done and to make changes that will help you breathe easy and enjoy events you find liberating. Being true to yourself and saying no to temptation will pay off. Don’t complicate your life or your relationships. Honesty is crucial. ★★★★★ Financial, medical and contractual matters will require discussions that offer facts and figures to support your needs. Show passion, not anger, and you’ll grab the attention of those who can make a difference to the outcome of something you want. Avoid overspending on something you don’t need or trying to Size down, simplify, rethink and start over. A change is overdue, but first, you need a budget-friendly plan. A partnership will help lower your overhead and ease stress. A sensitive issue will be dependent on your response. Choose
Show BusinessMirror
‘Hoppers’ holds onto No. 1 box office spot as ‘Reminders of Him’ overperforms
By Jake Coyle | The Associated Press
LOS ANGELES—Pixar’s Hoppers held onto the top slot at the box office, bouncing back with $28.5 million in its second weekend, according to studio estimates on Sunday, while Colleen Hoover’s Reminders of Him added to the author’s successful streak at the box office.
After its $45.3 million debut, The Walt Disney Co.’s Hoppers release dipped a modest 37 percent in its follow-up weekend, a promising sign for an animated movie hoping to have strong legs through March. The Pixar original, about a young woman who transforms into the body of a beaver to help defend a pond from development, is hoping to keep attracting audiences with good reviews (94 percent fresh on Rotten Tomatoes) and strong audience scores (an “A” CinemaScore).
While many of Pixar’s sequels have been blockbusters on arrival—like 2024’s Inside Out 2 ($1.7 billion worldwide)—their originals have recently needed time to get going. In 2023, Elemental launched with a disappointing $29.6 million but went on to
Students...
Continued from B4
and flexible education would be for them to secure career and financial success,” says Jenny Chua, vice president of Mapúa Malayan Digital College (MMDC). “MMDC’s commitment to this community is rooted in constant innovation. Our model is designed specifically to help working students achieve job resilience and improve employability, providing them with the necessary tools and flexibility to enhance their skills without compromising their livelihoods.”
This March 21, MMDC marks the second year of National Working Students Day. Part of the Step Up sa Pangarap movement, this celebration amplifies the call for support for working students as it challenges employers, educators, and everyone to join a collective push to empower their journey toward higher education and career success.
Amplifying the goal of National Working Students Day and the mission of MMDC are top companies Ayala, Globe, GCash, Microsoft, McDonald’s, and 7-Eleven; service providers Concentrix, Ubiquity, and IQor; and local entities IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) and the Negros Occidental Provincial Government. Now MMDC makes it easier for anyone and everyone to join the celebration with “3.21 Step Up & Go!”, a nationwide run-anywhere movement challenge to honor the heart and hustle of every working student. This call aims to show them how people all over the country are rooting for them and walking (or running!) beside them in their unique journey.
To show your support for National Working Students Day, simply wear blue and run or walk at your own pace wherever you are on March 21. Let working students know that a whole community is stepping up for them by posting about your run or walk online. Share any of the following: photos or videos of your run or walk, stats such as distance covered and time spent moving, or your message of encouragement for working students. Tag @mapuamalayandigital on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, with hashtags #StepUpForWorkingStudents and #WorkingStudentsDayPH. Mapúa Malayan Digital College has always been a partner and supporter of working students, recognizing their unique needs and delivering world-class IT education backed by Mapuan Academic Excellence.
This is why MMDC is boosting its support for its own working students community with the Step Up Your Success Digital Career Roadshow, where they can gain direct access to relevant upskilling, industry tips, and career experts from the digital college’s leaders and employer partners. Offering both full degree BS Information Technology courses and short-term Certification Programs, the premier digital college in the Philippines allows students to choose academic pathways according to their current time and financial constraints. Its future-forward curriculum also follows a hands-on approach to learning with AI-powered 24/7 support, so working students can quickly apply their new skills to their jobs.
More information can be found at mmdc.mcl.edu.ph.
gross a hefty $496.4 million globally. Hoppers, which has taken in $164.7 million globally thus far, has a long way to go to match that, but it’s off to a good start. It faced little direct new competition this weekend. The upcoming Amazon MGM sci-fi adventure Project Hail Mary, however, will soon take up IMAX screens and compete for family moviegoers. Universal’s Reminders of Him debuted in second place this weekend with a better-than-expected $18.3 million. The film, starring Maika Monroe as a woman attempting to rebuild her life after prison, is the third Colleen Hoover adaptation to reach the big screen, following 2024’s It Ends With Us ($351 million worldwide for Sony) and 2025’s Regretting You ($91 million for Paramount). Reminders of Him, which cost about $25 million to make, got poor reviews (56 percent fresh on Rotten Tomatoes) and notched a not-great “B” CinemaScore with audiences. But the film, the first from a screenplay co-written by Hoover, extends the bestselling author’s popularity with moviegoers. Undertone, a micro-budget horror movie from
A24, opened with $9.3 million. The film, written and directed by Ian Tuason, has been touted as A24’s best horror film since Ari Aster’s Hereditary (2018), one of the movies that helped put the indie studio on the map. With a budget of just $500,000, Undertone makes particular use of sound design in a one-setting tale about a paranormal podcaster (Nina Kiri) caring for her dying mother.
After its disappointing debut, Warner Bros.’ The Bride! plummeted in its second weekend, dropping 70 percent with just $2.1 million. The Maggie Gyllenhaaldirected riff on The Bride of Frankenstein cost about $80 million to 90 million to produce, but so far has grossed just $11.3 million domestically.
Oscar weekend is often slow in theaters, with the industry’s attention largely focused on Sunday’s Academy Awards. But the trio of moderate successes in Hoppers, Reminders of Him and Undertone lifted moviegoing ahead of Hollywood’s biggest night. Yearto-date ticket sales are up 15.2 percent from the same point last year, according to Comscore.
EVICTED
THE A-list actor has always prided himself in being wise with his money. He has always told people that his earnings have been well-invested in the stock market, jewelry, and real estate. One of his prized investments is a large condominium unit in a posh address. He has even done mini tours of that place. Recently, people have noticed that he has stopped talking about the said condominium unit. According to rumors, the real owner of the place, whose relationship to the actor remains unclear, asked him to vacate the place without prior notice. Much of the actor’s wealth actually came from benefactors. For instance, he once purchased a multimillionpeso watch charged to a woman’s credit card. He promised to pay it in installments but never did.
IN DEBT
WHAT film company is allegedly in legal trouble after being sued for non-payment? The debts the company has incurred amount to tens of millions, perhaps more. But what younger people in the film industry may not know is that the company has a long history of stretching payment terms or not paying its debts at all. Since the second generation took over tge business, things have not been going well. The members of the younger generation have made a bunch of bad decisions, including movies with actors without any appeal with the general public. They’ve also done movies with bad scripts and experimental story lines that didn’t really click with the audience.
LOADS OF CASH
THE actor-politician is no longer active in politics and his constituents can breathe sighs of relief. The actor-politician is reportedly so corrupt that even before the delivery of suitcases of cash became popular, he was already allegedly dealing with cash only. If you try to find a paper trail for his alleged corruption, you won’t find any because everything was given to him in cash. It’s been years since he was in politics and there is still a room in his house that holds lots and lots of cash. This leads us to wonder: Don’t his wife and children wonder why their house has a lot of cash, or why they are rich when he has not worked in years? Aside from allegedly being corrupt, the actor-politician is also known for being short-tempered. He reportedly shames his staff for the tiniest mistakes. So, yes, a lot of people want him to stay where he is right now.
NOT A CAT LOVER
WHICH volleyball player was overheard telling their girlfriend to use her slippers to hit a sleeping cat because they wanted to sit on the chair where the cat was sleeping? Before they arrived at the restaurant, which had a waiting area outside, the cat was sleeping peacefully. Long before that, the cat was playing with other waiting customers. The cat is a regular outside the restaurant and the regulars know that. The volleyball player was once very very popular but there have been talks of their bad attitude. Their defenders have said that some of the fans who approach the volleyball player are too intrusive and have no regard for their privacy. But their comment to hit the cat with the girlfriend’s slipper was heard loud and clear. Maybe they don’t like cats?
NIOR drops realizations about love with their new single ‘BNT’
ALTG Records’ band NIOR releases their new single, “BNT,” a pop-rock song made for the heartbroken.
The song, written by the band’s vocalist Brian Nucup, serves as a gentle reminder for listeners to reflect on their feelings and habits when they are in a relationship— whether romantic, friendship, or any other kind of relationship. It was produced by Caleb Hinanay and mastered by Jessie Ocampo.
The band is composed of Brian Nucup (rhythm guitar/vocals), Gabrielle Van Polanen Petel (vocals), Jessie Ocampo (drums), Paul Tanchiato (lead guitar), and
Christian Cervera Mallari (bass). Nucup says that “BNT,” or “Buhay ng Tanga,” is about people who unconsciously repeat the habit of being foolish in love— something that gradually becomes toxic until they eventually give up. He also describes how straightforward the song is: “When I was writing the lyrics, I felt like I was singing the song for myself because it was based on personal experience,” Brian shared. The creative process of writing the song happened overnight. As Nucup wrote the lyrics, his emotions and adrenaline took over the creative process, making the song even more personal.
The vocalist adds, “It took me time to process what is rational and what is not,” which became his main message to listeners: for people to learn to process their feelings when it comes to being foolish in love. For Brian, the song also serves as advice to himself. He emphasized this message to listeners: “Stop being foolish in love. Don’t be foolish about things you shouldn’t be. It’s not worth it.” “BNT” by NIOR is now available worldwide on major streaming platforms. More information about NIOR and other GMA artists can be found at www. gmanetwork.com.
‘Love Story’ revisits JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette, stirs backlash
WITH just a single photo released from their wedding day, much of the relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette remains shrouded in romanticized legend: the courtship between the fashion publicist and the scion of an already muchmythologized family, the private nuptials and, just three years later, their deaths in a tragic plane crash. The new FX and Hulu series Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette attempts to fill in the gaps and chronicle their life together. It details a meet cute at a party and culminates in the deaths of the couple and Bessette’s sister Lauren Bessette on July 16, 1999, when a small plane piloted by Kennedy crashed into the Atlantic Ocean.
Jack Schlossberg, Kennedy’s nephew, spoke out against the series last year, saying it was profiting off his family “in a grotesque way” accusing executive producer Ryan Murphy of “making millions” off Kennedy’s legacy. Murphy retaliated on California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s podcast, saying it was an “odd
choice to be mad about your relative that you really don’t remember.” Schlossberg, now running for Congress in New York, took to social media to share memories of his uncle.
Murphy was absent from the recent press circuit for Love Story, but executive producer Brad Simpson—a veteran of Murphy’s based-on-atrue-story American Crime Story projects—told The Associated Press that the creative team is “fully aware that there are real people and real tragedies often at the heart of these stories.”
“I’m not going to pretend like on some level we’re not making an entertainment product out of it, but we’ve tried to be ethical and we’ve tried to be incredibly sincere,” Simpson said. Paul Anthony Kelly and Sarah Pidgeon, who portray Kennedy and Bessette in the series, say they took care in playing the couple, but do respect Schlossberg’s opinion.
“I don’t know what it’s like to have a TV show or a movie or a book written about my family, and I
understand his sensitivities, and I fully support him speaking his mind,” Pidgeon said.
Added Kelly: “We tried to have as much integrity and love going into this and retelling that I hope that people see that.”
Love Story isn’t the first show about the Kennedy family that has faced criticism. In 2011, The History Channel dropped a miniseries starring Greg Kinnear as President John F. Kennedy and Katie Holmes as Jacqueline Kennedy, saying the finished project didn’t fit the network’s brand after Kennedy associates complained about script inaccuracies. The Kennedys ended up airing on Reelz Channel.
And it’s not the only show about the Kennedy family coming soon: Netflix has announced its making Kennedy, a series focused on the political dynasty’s origins and based on Fredrik Logevall’s JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century, 1917–1956. Michael Fassbender will play Joe Kennedy Sr., the family patriarch. AP
PIXAR’S Hoppers retained its spot at the top of the North American box office in its second weekend, dipping only a modest amount in audience attendance to suggest a strong lengthy run.
Okada Manila hosts media, KOLs appreciation event to celebrate seven years of Forbes 5-Star Excellence
Okada Manila, the Philippines’ Forbes 5-Star integrated resort, welcomed leading members of the media and digital creator community for its annual Media and Influencers’ Appreciation Night at Sinag, Coral Wing. The gathering recognized the continued partnership between the resort and the storytellers who helped spotlight Manila as a vibrant destination for world-class hospitality and entertainment.
Held under the theme “Auspicious Fortune,” the evening coincided with Okada Manila’s seventh consecutive year as a Forbes 5-Star Integrated Resort and The Retreat Spa’s fourth consecutive year as a Forbes 5-Star Spa. The celebration also welcomed the Lunar New Year, bringing together media partners and executives to mark shared milestones and look ahead to new opportunities for tourism and storytelling in the year ahead. President and COO Nobuki Sato opened the program by thanking media and influencers for their continued support in sharing Okada Manila’s story with a wider audience. He noted that the resort’s sustained Forbes recognition reflects a culture of consistency,
discipline, and service excellence that continues to
Joining the celebration were key members of Okada Manila’s leadership team, including Shirley Tam, Executive Vice President of Casino Marketing; Reddy Leong, Vice President of Corporate Marketing and Communications; Andreas Balla, Vice President of Food and Beverage; Robert Scott, Vice President of Hotel Operations; and Alvaro Ramos, Assistant Vice President of Retail Operations.
During the evening, Robert Scott shared an update on Okada Manila’s ongoing room enhancement program, a strategic initiative aimed at further elevating the guest experience while sustaining the standards behind its Forbes 5-Star recognition. Several floors have already been refreshed with refined interiors, warmer tones, upgraded lighting, and enhanced inroom features designed to create a more comfortable and contemporary stay. The improvements also introduce intuitive technology and operational upgrades that support efficiency and sustainability,
New 4As Philippines board takes oath
In the photo are, from left, are Havas Ortega Business Director Janlo Cui, Board Secretary; Elevation Managing Director Martin De Guzman, Treasurer; McCann Worldgroup VP-Managing Partner Mitzie LimNacianceno, Controller; Over The Moon Communications Managing Partner/Creative Ricky Gonzales, President; Dentsu Creative Philippines Chief Executive Officer Ronald Barreiro, Chairman; TBWA\SMP Chief Marketing Officer Paolo Broma, Trustee; Ad Hoc Marketing Co-Founder & Managing Partner Henson Wongaiham, Trustee; BBDO Guerrero General Manager Karen Go, Trustee; and the event’s keynote speaker, ABS-CBN Head of Creative Communication Management Robert Labayen.
THE Association of Accredited Advertising Agencies of the Philippines (4As) formally inducted its 2026–2027 Board of Trustees during its First General Membership Meeting (GMM) held at the Gallardo Jr. Ballroom of Makati Diamond Residences on March 3, 2026. Leading the organization for the new term are Chairman Ronald Barreiro, Chief Executive Officer of Dentsu Creative Philippines, and President Ricky Gonzales, Managing Partner/Creative of Over The Moon Communications.
Also serving the organization are Vice President Mike Garcia, Managing Director of Ogilvy Manila; Board Secretary Janlo Cui, Business Director of Havas Ortega; Treasurer Martin De Guzman, Managing Director of Elevation; and Controller Mitzie Lim-Nacianceno, VP-Managing Partner of McCann Worldgroup.
Completing the nine-member Board are Trustees Paolo Broma, Chief Marketing Officer of TBWA\SMP; Henson Wongaiham, Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Ad Hoc Marketing; and Karen Go, General Manager of BBDO Guerrero.
The Board was sworn in by Robert Labayen, Head of Creative Communication Management at ABS-CBN, who also delivered the keynote address.
In his keynote speech, Labayen emphasized the need to plan for change even in good times and to make difficult decisions to remain relevant in a constantly evolving industry. He shared ABS-CBN’s enduring vision to serve the Filipino people with purpose and meaning, highlighting the importance of making the organization a platform for Filipino storytelling and a home for the country’s best creative talent.
He underscored humility and collaboration as critical leadership values, encouraging agencies to recognize collective contributions and treat audiences as partners in navigating the shifting media landscape.
In his address, Gonzales outlined the 2026 Plan of Action of the Board of Trustees, anchored on three key priorities: ensuring the sustainability of the industry, attracting more students to pursue careers in advertising, and strengthening engagement with member agencies.
reinforcing Okada Manila’s commitment to continually refining the guest journey.
The celebration continued with a traditional Lo Hei prosperity toss led by the resort’s executives, symbolizing abundance and shared success for the year ahead. Guests also enjoyed dinner, live entertainment, and interactive activities throughout the evening, along with raffle draws featuring dining experiences, spa treatments, and overnight stays at the resort.
More than a festive gathering, the appreciation night reaffirmed Okada Manila’s commitment to working closely with media and key opinion leaders to promote Manila as a dynamic tourism and lifestyle destination. By sharing milestones, experiences, and new developments with its partners, the integrated resort continues to contribute to the city’s growing profile as a hub for hospitality, entertainment, and world-class experiences.
Stay updated on Okada Manila’s latest events, milestones, and offerings. Visit https://okadamanila.com/ or follow Okada Manila on social media.
Gonzales emphasized the importance of investing in young talent through structured training programs and lectures, including upskilling initiatives in artificial intelligence and creativity. He also highlighted the need to review and refine the industry’s pitch policy to better protect and support agencies in a competitive environment.
Recognizing the changing nature of the industry, he called for modernizing the community feel of Philippine advertising—fostering a more collaborative, inclusive, and forward-looking ecosystem while working harmoniously with partner organizations.
Barreiro, in his speech, acknowledged the real pressures confronting agencies today, from AI-driven disruption and shifting business models to tightening margins and organizational restructuring.
Reflecting on the question often heard across the industry—“Kaya pa ba?”—Barreiro delivered a message of confidence and resolve. The Board will continue the theme “Creativity Means Business,” expanding it to focus not only on growth, but on sustainable and resilient growth.
He stressed that creativity must be matched with commercial discipline, financial literacy, and strong leadership to ensure that Philippine agencies remain competitive and respected in the years to come. More importantly, he underscored the responsibility of today’s leaders to prepare the next generation—mentoring intentionally, strengthening business acumen, and building organizations that endure.
“The challenges are real,” Barreiro shared, “but so are we. Together, we will navigate them, grow from them, and leave an industry stronger than we found it.”
With renewed leadership and a defined roadmap, 4As Philippines enters 2026 focused on capability-building, collaboration, and future-proofing the local advertising industry.
4As Philippines is the country’s premier organization of accredited advertising agencies, dedicated to advancing creative excellence, professional standards, and sustainable industry growth. To learn more about 4As Philippines, visit the website at www.4asphilippines. com or follow the 4As Philippines official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/4AsPhilippines.
PHILHEALTH BAGS AWARD The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) was honored with the Excellence in Digital Transformation Award at the GCash Digital Excellence Awards 2025. This accolade recognizes PhilHealth’s remarkable growth in digital transactions from 2022 to 2025, reflecting a steadfast commitment to strategic innovation and public financial inclusion. By integrating with the GCash “Pay Bills” service, PhilHealth has streamlined the contribution process, offering members a faster, more accessible payment experience. Since becoming an accredited collecting agent in 2024, GCash has remained a vital partner in PhilHealth’s ongoing mission to digitize public service. PhilHealth Treasury Department’s Senior Manager Malou Naguit received the award together with PhilHealth and G-Exchange Inc. personnel.
GSIS turns over property title to Negros Oriental homeowner, donates equipment to adopted school in Dumaguete
THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) recently turned over a property title to a homeowner in Judyville Subdivision in Sibulan, Negros Oriental, who has fully paid for a residential unit under the agency’s Lease with Option to Buy (LWOB) program.
GSIS President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo “Wick” Veloso led the turnover of the title to Vera Aljas, a government employee, marking the completion of the purchase process under the LWOB program.
“When I was still studying, I already saw the house that I dreamed of buying. The GSIS housing program was a big help because it gave us the option to buy our own house. So when I was able to save enough, I bought it. The house is near the subdivision guard house so I don’t have to worry about our security anymore,” Aljas said.
The LWOB program, part of the GSIS Ginhawa for All framework, offers renewable lease agreements on GSIS-owned residential properties. Lessees may purchase their units at any time during the lease period, with flexible payment options including installment plans with no down payment for qualified GSIS members.
Judyville Subdivision, also known as BelAir, is a 470-unit housing project in Boloc-Boloc, Sibulan, developed by Firm Builders Realty Development Corporation under a joint venture confirmed by the GSIS Board of Trustees in 1997. Of the 470 lots, 284 were allocated for GSIS members. As of February 28, 2026, four
residential properties in the subdivision remain in the GSIS investment portfolio.
“When a member or a homeowner finally holds the title to their property, that is the fulfillment of a commitment GSIS made to them,” Veloso said. “The LWOB program was designed to give GSIS home borrowers a clear, workable path to own their homes.”
During the same visit, Veloso and GSIS officials went to Dumaguete City National High School, which the pension fund adopted in 2015 under its Adopt-a-School program. GSIS previously installed two comfort room stalls and a handwashing facility at the school. On Friday, the team turned over three printers requested by the school to support its operations.
“We are grateful to GSIS for their assistance. Our teachers and students have greatly benefited from the comfort room and handwashing facilities. They are able to focus better because they no longer have to walk far to use these facilities,” said Jonathan S. Quitay, Teacher-in-Charge of the school. “When there are competitions or activities held at the school, guests can also use it,” he added.
Dumaguete City National High School, located on S.L. Teves Street in Barangay Calindagan, is the largest public high school under the Department of Education’s Dumaguete City Division, serving more than 3,500 students.
“We adopted this school more than 10 years ago, and our responsibility does not end with a single donation,” Veloso said. “When they tell us what they need, we respond.”
Unique AI-supported training center for Filipino galley crew
Ito Michel’s faith in the Filipino talent. “Around 70 to 80 percent of the global fleet is manned by Filipino seafarers. Renowned for their exceptional seamanship and service, Filipino crew are top-notch. They consistently stand at the forefront of the maritime industry. Their professionalism and dedication are unmatched. I also love the Philippines,” he happily said.
The newly opened center in Parañaque is marked by innovation and efficiency. It combines hands-on culinary and hospitality training, artificial intelligence learning, and sustainability practices with a strong focus on the crew’s overall well-being.
“We have integrated advanced technology into the learning experience, including the use of artificial intelligence. Trainees undergo a three-hour
the assigned dishes. A huge monitor is upfront showing every participant, including their oven temperature, water consumption and weight of food scraps/waste.
“Throughout the process, their actions are monitored and recorded using sensors and cameras. Heat levels, water usage, and wastage are tracked by sensors, while cameras
A traditional Lo Hei prosperity toss was led by the resort’s executives, symbolizing abundance and shared success for the year ahead.
define the brand.
Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) President and General Manager Wick Veloso (center) leads the turnover of a property title to homeowner Vera Aljas in Judyville Subdivision, Sibulan, Negros Oriental, marking the completion of her home purchase under the GSIS Housing program.
Ambassador Vladislava Lordanova, General Manager Connie Germono and IFS Founder Michel Pradolini.
Editor: Tet Andolong
Resort-type developments are PHL’s untapped economic driver
By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio
THE Philippines can finally transform from being a “geographic potential” to a global investment priority, according to property management firm CBRE Philippines.
Sheila Joy Sanchez, CBRE Philippines head of capital markets and investments, resort-type development is the country’s greatest untapped strength and it needs to be harnessed immediately to transform the country into a major tourism hub in Southeast Asia. Furthermore, Sanchez adds that resort-type development is the country’s greatest untapped strength that can catapult the country’s tourism to greater heights.
Although the country is geographically well situated, Sanchez says lack of infrastructure across the country prevents tourists from visiting the Philippines. “It’s become a limiting factor for a lot of big hotel players to come in,” she says Jie Espinosa, CBRE Philippines country head for leasing and advocacy, says tourism has been such a big part of the success story for both India and Thailand. “Those hospitality road shows in India and Thailand we have attended showed the biggest limiting factor was still infrastructure,” says Espinosa.
“That is the reason why the Philippines is not within the radar for growth,” adds Espinosa.
Meanwhile, Sanchez says the outlook for the remainder of the year is cautiously optimistic. While the city hotel market is saturated, she sayd
the resort-type niche is the Philippines’s greatest untapped strength. “If the government can match the “rolling out” of brands by developers with a “rolling out” of runways and regional gateways, the country can compete with their counterparts in Asean,” she says.
F&B still on the growth path
CBRE Philippines head of transaction management and retail Maam Argos says the retail sector particularly food and beverage continues to post growth as manifested by the opening of several brands such as the opening of Ben Chan’s Luckin Coffee. “The gaming sector also continues to register growth,” says Argos. In a related development, The Bistro Group’s Watami transformed from a traditional Japanese franchise into a dynamic dining destination since entering the local market in 2012.
Chef Masaaki Ishikawa, Executive Chef of Watami, says the brand bridges the gap between authentic heritage and modern trends. Recognizing that Gen Z and Millennials now “eat with their eyes” first, Ishikawa says Watami has elevated its plating to be more contemporary and social-media-ready.
He says Watami has observed a significant shift in the local dining seg -
ment. “The current market is driven by younger diners who prioritize the total food experience over simple consumption,” he says.
Despite the trendy look, the kitchen adheres to rigorous Japanese standards. Their ramen broth, for instance, is boiled for 20 hours to achieve a depth of flavor that cannot be rushed.
With a dedicated Japanese chef
overseeing operations, Ishikawa says the brand ensures that even as they adopt local trends, the “Japan standard” is never compromised.
Watami is also engaged in spreading awareness to diners the “proper”
way of Japanese eating—such as the specific placement of rice and soup— to enhance the feeling of immersion.
Perhaps the most striking aspect of Watami’s growth is its aggressive expansion strategy. Despite the
challenges of the past few years, the group has been in a high-growth phase since 2019.
TBG’s Bistronomia
MEINARD Pasco, group marketing head, Spanish concepts, TBG, says the leading casual dining operator is entering a new era of management, streamlining its operations and sharpening its focus on its premier Spanish concepts: Las Flores and Rumba. As part of this consolidation, the group is pouring its resources and marketing expertise into their highperforming flagship, Las Flores, and its Mediterranean-leaning sibling, Rumba.
Why Spanish Cuisine remains king WHEN asked why Spanish food remains a “permanent fixture” for Filipinos, Pasco says the answer lies in a blend of history and comfort. The familiarity of garlicky profiles, sausages, and slow-cooked meats creates a bridge between the two cultures. Pasco points out that the primary goal of this new management phase is the elevation of the customer experience.
To ensure the flavors remain true to their roots, the group continues to prioritize international expertise. The current executive chef, while Argentinian, brings a wealth of experience from the Basque Country in Spain, ensuring that the techniques and traditions remain uncompromised. As TBG continues to refine its “Spanish Board,” the message is clear: they aren't just serving food; they are curating an authentic, elevated experience that honors the deep-seated culinary connection between Spain and the Philippines.
Cebu developer forays into health care, solar energy
By Bernard L. Supetran
HOSPITALITY and hospitals share common roots, but are ironically seen by the public as divergent industries.
A 2014 United Stated National Library of Medicine study pointed out that both industries have the mission of ensuring customer satisfaction, but have minimal cross-fertilization.
This rare cross-fertilization became a reality in the Philippines at the unlikeliest time and players when Cebu-based AppleOne Properties Inc. (API) ventured into health care at height of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Known for building global hotel brands in the Visayas and Mindanao, API formed the AppleOne Medical Group (AMG) in 2020 to breathe new life to provincial hospitals which have been facing rough sailing for years.
“When we established the AMG, it was a leap of faith as we forayed into uncharted waters of hospital management, guided only by God’s providence on top of our years of experience in property development,” enthuses AppleOne president and CEO Ray Go Manigsaca.
He noted that the formation of the AMG was providential as the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) has been scouting for a formidable partner to strengthen its healing ministry.
“We aim to build better health care experiences through competence and compassion in our practices and medical services, with a more patient-
focused approach,” he added.
The first to forge a joint venture with the new firm is the 74-year old Visayas Community Medical Center (VCMC), a Level 3, 200-bed hospital in Cebu City with some 700 affiliate doctors.
Rebranded as the Visayas Medical Hospital, it has transitioned into specialized care and has been expanding its services to managing corporate health care. Bringing in its hospitality expertise, the facility takes pride of a mixed-use medical arts building which has hotel-like features.
“VCMC is close to my heart as it has been our family hospital when we were children, and we would like to repay and pay it forward for its health care to the Cebu community by making it more responsive to the changing times,” Manigsaca waxes nostalgia.
The second facility admitted to the AMG fold is the Davao City-based AppleOne Brokenshire Medical Corp.,
a 200-bed Level 3 general training hospital which has bounced back from its financial woes in the 1980s.
“Under the joint venture, Brokenshire turned around from an operating loss in 2021 to positive EBITDA [earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization] and NPAT [net profit after tax] with a remarkable gross revenue increase of 53 percent. It was also recognized for its excellence in talent development at the Hospital Management Asia [HMA] Awards 2024,” shares AMG group CEO Ronald Santos. The latest addition to the AMG portfolio in 2022 is the level 2 100-bed United Shalom Hospital in Tacloban City, with some 140 affiliated doctors. Formerly the American-era Bethany Hospital, it was partially damaged by supertyphoon Yolanda in 2013, and it reopened a few years later to resume its healing ministry. The hospital, which has a new
spanking building, is expected to double its revenue and register at least 28 percent EBITDA and 16 percent NPAT, open its ICU/NICU units, and acquire level 3 accreditation for its laboratory.
“Brokenshire will increase its bed capacity and set up highly-specialized centers of Heart Institute and Chemotherapy Center and increase its capability as a training hospital through more fellowship slots in reproductive medicine and new specialty fellowships in cardiology,” Santos added. He said that the long-term plan is to set up satellite out-patient departments and primary care services within a 50-km radius, and a hub and spoke model to reach underserved areas. On the hotel front, it recently opened Fairfield by Marriott Mactan Cebu, a 196-room, 3.5 star-rated hotel with the attached Mahi Center lifestyle mall and mixed-use midrise building, located 3 minutes away from the airport. Its flagship property is the awardwinning Sheraton Mactan Resort and The Residences high-rise, the first luxury development of its kind in Cebu. As part of its diversification, AppleOne ventured into renewable energy with of Astronergy Development Dipolog Inc. which will soon operate an 8-hectare 7-megawatt solar farm in La Libertad, Zamboanga Del Norte Once operational, the power firm will expand into its second and third phases with 7
THE Watami team (from left) John Andrew Alicando, Training Manager of Watami; Jacob San Pablo, Multi-Unit Manager of Watami; RC Tiongson, COO of The Bistro Group; Chef Masaaki Ishikawa, Executive Chef of Watami; Jholan Peñafiel, Multi-Unit Manager of Watami; Jamie Lynn Arnedo. Marketing Officer of Watami and Dana Cuadra, Group Marketing Head of The Bistro Group.
LAS Flores Uptown
ASTROENERGY solar farm in Zamboanga Del Norte
BROKENSHIRE Medical Center in Davao City
UNITED Shalom Hospital in Tacloban City
SHEILA JOY SANCHEZ
Kerr bags 600 wins, and an Oscar, too
WASHINGTON— Steve Kerr could finally celebrate win No. 600. The Golden State coach is one of the fastest to reach the milestone, but after he made it to 599 the Warriors lost five in a row—they snapped that skid with a 125-117 win over Washington on Monday night. Not a great basketball game,” Kerr said. “But we needed the win and were good enough to get the win.”
K err reached 600 in his 943rd regular-season game and only three coaches have needed fewer, according to information from the Elias Sports Bureau distributed by the Warriors— Phil Jackson did it in 805 games, Pat Riley in 832 and Gregg Popovich in 887.
TBy Josef Ramos
ERRAFIRMA takes on
Blackwater at the resumption of the Philippine Basketball Association Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup on Wednesday with head coach Ronald Tubid hoping to match a franchise record 4-0 start the Dyip had a decade ago.
A dmitting they’re not after any record of sorts, Tubid said the team’s priority at the moment is to keep on going—and winning.
We are just hungry and we have no idea about other things,” said Tubid, a nine-time PBA champion as a player and a first-year coach in the league. “It’s one game at a time for now.”
Terrafirma went a franchise best 4-0 as the Mahindra of playing-coach, boxing Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao, in the 2016 Governors’ Cup behind import James White.
Tubid is aware of how the Bossing could be a dangerous opponent in the 5:15 p.m. game at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City.
“ We cannot take them for granted because they have a system and we know they can defeat us,” he said.
The Dyip are frolicking behind seven-foot import Mubashar Ali, who scored 50 points and 25 rebounds in their 111-100 overtime win over Converge over the weekend. Th at’s not to mention the fact that Ali is a devoted Muslim and has been fasting to observe Ramadan during their first three victories.
He [Ali] is doing it all game long,” Tubid said. “He’s very professional and well-disciplined and he makes the other players look better.”
Terrafirma is expected to rely anew on Jerrick Ahanmisi’s scoring—he’s averaging 20 points and 6.5 assists in two games—as well as top pick Geo Chiu, Joseph Eriobu, Shawn Umali, Maverick Ahanmisi and Paolo Hernandez.
Blackwater came out short in an 81-84 loss to NLEX last week and it expected to bounce back from a 0-2 start behind Sedrick Barefield and import Daniel Ochefu.
Converge (1-1), meanwhile, tries to rebound from that overtime loss to Terrafirma when it battles Meralco in the second game at 7:30 p.m.
T he Bolts, playing their first game in the conference, are parading seventh overall pick veteran point guard Jason Brickman.
It’s surreal to hear my name in that group, but I can tell you that one thing that bonds us all together—those names and mine—is talent,” Kerr said. “You can’t win in this league without great players, and I was blessed from the day I took this job with incredible talent.”
There hasn’t been as much of it in Golden State’s recent lineups.
S tephen Curry and Jimmy Butler are out with injuries and the Warriors are mired in a race for positioning in the play-in round in the Western Conference. They did have Draymond Green and Kristaps Porzingis back after resting them in Sunday’s loss at New York. Porzingis scored a game-high 30 points.
He’s quite a talent,” Kerr said. “We’re also on the Kristaps Porzingis reunion tour. It’s kind of crazy. We’re playing every one of his former teams. The Knicks, Washington, Atlanta,
Boston, Dallas—all five of his teams, we’re seeing on this trip. Players usually get up for playing against their old teams.”
Up next for the Warriors is a matchup with the Celtics on Wednesday night.
Kerr now an Oscar winner STEVE KERR was one of the executive producers for All the Empty Rooms,” which won the Oscar for documentary short. The 35-minute film c hronicles how broadcast journalist Steve Hartman and photographer Lou Bopp told the stories of how families have memorialized the bedrooms of children killed in mass shootings.
K err—whose father, then the president of American University in Beirut, was shot and killed in 1984— has long spoken out about a need for common-sense gun regulation.
I didn’t have anything to do with the making of the film,” Kerr said Monday. “But I am very proud to be associated with it.”
Kerr—a nine-time National Basketball Association champion as a player and coach, who also coached USA
Basketball to Olympic gold at the 2024 Paris Games—said he did not hesitate when asked to be part of this project. They called me about a year ago and asked if I would like to be an executive producer, which meant basically put my name on it and help promote it,” Kerr said. “It was a nobrainer, just given my passion for the issue. And then after watching the film, I was just blown away by how beautiful it was and poignant it was. It was an easy decision.”
K err did some screenings for Netflix in recent weeks and wrote
an op-ed for the Los Angeles Times earlier this month about the film, detailing how he was drawn to the way director Joshua Seftel and others involved in the project told the stories of the families who have lost children in school shootings. What mattered to me right away was how the film listens to families,” Kerr wrote in that piece.
Yabut shares lead with Korean in Q-School
IVAN YABUT and Korean Lee Song delivered five-under 67s to seize early control of the Philippine Golf Tour (PGT) Qualifying School amid tricky conditions at Splendido Taal Golf Club on Tuesday and opening a four-shot clubhouse lead over the field in Laurel, Batangas.
Yabut leaned on power and local knowledge while Song produced a bogeyfree round as both players rode eagleladen cards to the top of the leaderboard in the opening round of the four-day eliminations which will award 30 spots for this year’s 10-leg PGT season.
Yabut, who recently turned professional after completing his Master’s degree at Texas A&M University, mixed six birdies with an eagle on No. 11 but had to recover from a double bogey and a bogey to match Song’s steady effort.
Song, a 27-year-old Korean based in Silang (Cavite), also gunned down an eagle on the second hole and added three birdies while preserving a flawless 33-34 card in favorable morning conditions.
The duo built a provisional fourstroke cushion over Japan’s Miki Ryoma, who carded a roller-coaster 71 highlighted by eight birdies but marred by two double bogeys and three bogeys, as half of the 121-player field was still out on the course with stronger
afternoon winds expected.
D espite the hot start in the 72-hole elimsination organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc., both leaders braced for a tougher test in the second round with tee times set to switch.
Yabut credited his familiarity with the layout for his impressive start, combining solid driving, sharp iron play and steady putting to navigate the challenging course.
A fter unsuccessful bids at the Korn Ferry Tour and Asian Tour Q-School, Yabut said shifting his focus to the PGT was an easy decision, citing family support in the Philippines and familiarity with local conditions.
It was a very easy decision after not making it at Asian Tour Q-School,” said Yabut, who has played the course 13 times prior to Q-School, giving him valuable local knowledge. “I have plenty of family here in the Philippines who have helped support me and it’s easier for me to travel around with them.”
THE red carpet rolls out anew for the third edition of the Women in Sports Awards on Friday at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. The event—a partnership between the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Philippine Commission on Women—aims to showcase successful Filipina athletes as role models and also highlights the contributions of women sports leaders in the country.
P SC commissioner and bowling legend Olivia “Bong” Coo said the star-studded program, which will hand out 83
“It gives them room to speak about their children without exploiting their stories into politics or spectacle. There’s a dignity in that choice, which is difficult to find in the way our country usually talks about gun violence.”
Seftel accepted the Oscar on Sunday night, then ceded the microphone to Gloria Cazares, the mother of a 9-year-old killed in a school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. AP
Smart-MVPSF Palanca taekwondo tourney this weekend
T
HE Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) stages the Smart/MVPSF National Carlos Palanca Jr. Taekwondo Championships this Saturday and Sunday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
L ong regarded as the breeding ground for future champions, the PTA—under the stewardship of Grandmaster Hong SungChon—announced that around 3,000 jins will be competing in the two-day event, underscoring the sustained popularity of the
Successful athletes and parents
Korean martial arts in the country.
Veterans and rising stars of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, National Collegiate Athletic Association and other major clubs all over the country are looking to pull off surprises in the tournament supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee and Milo.
Competitions will in Kyorugi (Free Sparring) and Poomsae (Forms).
Kyorugi will have seniors, juniors, cadets
and grade schoolers for male and female, while Poomsae will have events in Recognized Poomsae (individual, team and mixed pair events) and Freestyle (individual only).
The competition will serve as a tune-up for national team members preparing for the World Junior Championships, Asian Championships, Chuncheon Korea Open Championships, World Poomsae Taekwondo, Youth Olympic Games and the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
RONALD TUBID takes the cautious path of one game at a time. PBA PHOTO
THE National Carlos Palanca Jr. championships is long regarded as the breeding ground for future champions. PTA PHOTO
