LOCAL monetary officials could reduce key policy rates by up to 75 basis points this year to propel economic growth beyond the lower-end target, banking on cooling inflation and increased investments, according to the Finance chief.
In a televised interview on Wednesday, Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said he expects a 50- to 75-basis-point reduction in key policy rates this year, which will help propel growth, consumption and investments.
With inflation cooling to 2.1 percent in February, settling at the lower end of the government’s 2 to 4 percent target range, Recto said “there is room for a rate cut” in the Monetary Board’s
meeting on April 10.
“We’re in an easing cycle. It’s a high probability that we could do a rate cut for our next meeting,” said Recto, who also sits as member of the Monetary Board, the highest policy-making body of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
“If we could reduce it in the next two years by 150 basis points, probably even higher,” Recto added.
While a rate cut is on the table, Recto said the Philippine peso is closely watched for any weakness despite being “relatively stable” at the 57-level, between the government’s targets 56 to 58 levels.
BSP Governor and Chairman of the Monetary Board Eli M. Remolona said earlier the BSP could
cut rates in its meeting in April. Remolona said the BSP could cut rates by up to 50 bps, even more, in April “if things look much worse than we thought or what we call a ‘hard landing.’”
“But as long as we’re more or less on track, it will be [a 25-bps cut] at a time,” Remolona quickly added.
In its previous meeting, the BSP kept its key policy rates unchanged at 5.75 percent due to global uncertainties and will recalibrate its models to better account for these uncertainties.
PHL to grow to up to 7 percent DESPITE being in a “very challenging global environment,” Recto said the Philippines could grow up to 7 percent, even higher later on, if in-
terest rates would go down, coupled with more investments following the passage of the Create More law. The Finance chief also remains optimistic that the Philippines would hit at least a 6-percent growth, in line with the forecasts of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. “Our macroeconomic fundamentals are very good. Unemployment is down. The middle class is growing. We’re investing more than 5 percent of GDP in infrastructure,” Recto said.
The upcoming midterm election is also seen as a contributor to hitting the government’s target of at least a 6-percent growth due to increased spending. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
BOP BACK TO SURPLUS, BUT EXPERTS FLAG RISKS
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
THEPhilippines’s balance of payments position swung back to a surplus in February, the highest in five months, but underlying challenges must be addressed, according to experts.
Latest data from the Bangko Sentral
nas (BSP) showed the BOP reverted to a $3.1-billion surplus in February 2025, a turnaround from a $196-million BOP deficit during the same month in 2024.
“The BOP surplus reflected the national government’s net foreign currency deposits with the BSP which include proceeds from ROP Global Bonds, and net income from the BSP’s foreign investments,” the central bank said.
The BOP also improved after recording a deficit of $4.078 billion in January 2025.
The BOP is a summary of the Philippines’s economic transactions with the rest of the world for a specific period. A BOP surplus position means there are more exports or inflows than imports or outflows, while a deficit means there are less.
While it’s impressive that the BOP position turned around, indicating a substantial improvement in the country’s economic activities, Reyes Tacandong & Co. Senior Adviser Jonathan Ravelas said the cumulative deficit suggests certain underlying challenges
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) intends to engage in discussions with the transport group Manibela, following the latter’s declaration of a three-day nationwide transport strike scheduled from March 24 to 26.
In a streamed press conference, Manibela President Mar Valbuena slammed the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) for supposedly “lying” about the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), now called the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).
“The LTFRB is saying that 86 percent have already consolidated and complied. This became the trigger for why our provisional authority was not renewed and why we could no longer register,” he said. He was referring to the industry consolidation initiative under the PUVMP. This refers to the government’s move that required PUV operators to form cooperatives or corporations for them to gain access to business financing to acquire modern units. The consolidation of franchises ended in 2024. Valbuena said the group has
EBy Bless Aubrey Ogerio @blessogerio
XPECT Filipinos to spend more in the first quarter of 2025, with a boost from election-related government spending, low inflation and more jobs from infrastructure projects, supported by falling crude oil and global rice prices, according to a think tank.
The First Metro Investment Corporation-University of Asia and the Pacific (FMIC-UA&P) Capital Market Research expects a “sanguine” outlook for the country in Q1 2025 and the rest of the year, projecting 2.4-percent growth in the first quarter and 2.8 percent for the full year, despite a global slowdown and weak Q4 2024 GDP. (See: https:// businessmirror.com.ph/2025/01/30/ q4-gdp-growth-at-5-2-as-typhoon-
battered-farm-sector-shrinks/)
“Inflation has slowed to 2.1 percent year-on-year in February and no resurgence appears in sight as crude oil prices remain below $70 per barrel and rice prices [even abroad] have plunged to below $400 per metric ton in Vietnam,” FMIC-UA&P said in its latest Market Call report.
The think tank also expects liquidity growth to pick up, citing an anticipated rate cut from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in April and the continued effect of the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) reduction.
Job growth is seen accelerating in March and April, with bonds and equities markets likely to stage stronger recoveries after the April 15 income tax deadline.
DOTr engaes Manibela as transport…
repeatedly sought for a “dialogue with agency, but we did not hear anything from them.”
Hence, the group will organize a “nationwide transport strike from March 24, 25, and 26, which we can extend depending on the needs of our members.”
In response, the agency “acknowledged” Manibela’s right to voice their concerns.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said he has directed Assistant Secretary for Road Transport and Non-Infrastructure, Dioscoro “Jojo” Reyes, to “conduct a dialogue with the concern transport groups as soon as possible.”
“The department hopes that instead of a transport strike, we sit down for a dialogue to work together to keep commuters safe and comfortable while ensuring that the welfare of our drivers and operators are protected,” the agency said in a statement.
Still, anticipating potential disruptions from the strike, the DOTr, in collaboration with the LTFRB, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and local government units (LGUs), is formulating contingency plans.
These measures include deploying free rides to assist commuters who might be affected during the strike period.
Lower global rice quotations a challenge to local farmers
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
WHILEdeclining global rice quotations could offer relief for Filipino consumers, the government would be hard-pressed to boost support for local farmers, according to an economist.
University of Asia and Pacific Center for Food and Agribusiness (CFA) executive director Marie Annette Galvez-Dacul said the drop in international prices of the staple grain would weigh on local rice planters.
“Declining global rice prices can lead to cheaper imports, reducing government expenditures on rice procurement. However, this also challenges local farmers, making competition tougher,” Dacul told the BusinessMirror
“While consumers may gain from lower prices, the government must balance affordability with support for domestic rice production to sustain long-term food security,” she added.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently noted that exporter quotes further tumbled in February.
For one, the international agency said Vietnamese prices dropped by $7 to $387 per metric ton (MT) and Thai quotes shrank by $19 to $418 per MT with reduced sales to Southeast Asian markets.
“Pakistani quotes decreased $20 to $380 per MT and India is down $10 to $400 per MT with large supplies,” the USDA said in its latest report.
It added that United States prices declined by $19 to $678 per MT on weaker sales to Latin America, while Uruguayan quotes fell $56 to $612 per MT following the harvest of its new crop.
Data from the Bureau of Plant
area,” the Neda Board said.
The Improving Growth Corridors in Mindanao Road Sector Project also received approval for a change in scope and loan reallocation. The project aims to strengthen Mindanao’s economic growth by enhancing road infrastructure and ensuring its resilience.
Balisacan emphasized the importance of stronger coordination to address challenges in proj-
Industry (BPI) showed that the volume of rice shipments that entered the country as of March 13 stood at 640,915 MT.
‘P45 MSRP’ MEANWHILE , the Department of Agriculture (DA) recently floated that the maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for imported rice would likely hit P45 per kilo before end-March, a drop of P4 from its current P49-per kilo pricing.
Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa attributed the possible further cut to MSRP on the easing of export rice prices in the world market and strengthened Philippine peso.
“Looking at the current trend of prices, the exchange rate, and the prices in the international market, most likely the P45 pesos MSRP for imported premium rice will push through towards the end of the month,” De Mesa said in Filipino, in a previous interview.
must still be addressed. The surplus led to a cumulative $992-million deficit as of February 2025, higher than the $936-million deficit posted in the same period a year ago.
The BSP traced this to the widening trade in goods deficit and net outflows from foreign portfolio investments.
However, this was partially offset by net receipts from foreign borrowings by the national government and personal remittances.
“This mixed result highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to economic policies to sustain positive trends while mitigating deficits,” Ravelas said.
Meanwhile, Bank of the Philippine Island Lead Economist Jun Neri said the BSP’s decision to hold key policy rates steady in February supported the country’s BOP position.
“This likely attracted foreign flows into both the local bond and equity markets last month helping, in turn, mitigate the persistent deficits in the current account,” Neri said.
For the coming months, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said sustained growth in the country’s structural US dollar inflows would lead to a better BOP position. The latest BOP position also mirrored the increase in the final gross international reserves (GIR) level to $107.4 billion as of end-February 2025. This is higher than the $103.3-billion GIR level at the end of January 2025.
“This latest GIR level provides a robust external liquidity buffer, equivalent to 7.4 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income,” the BSP said.
Specifically, the latest GIR level ensures the availability of foreign exchange to meet the balance of payments financing needs, such as for payment of imports and debt service, in extreme conditions when there are no export earnings or foreign loans, the BSP noted. The current GIR level also covers approximately 3.8 times the country’s short-term external debt based on residual maturity.
Short-term debt based on residual maturity is the outstanding external debt with an original maturity of one year or less, plus principal payments on medium- and long-term loans of the public and private sectors falling due within the next 12 months.
ect implementation.
“This includes proactively managing issues such as site conditions, funding, and approvals. By enhancing our planning, oversight, and collaboration, we can reduce delays and ensure that infrastructure projects are delivered on time to benefit our communities and support economic growth,” the socioeconomic planning chief said. Bless Aubrey Ogerio
The peso’s recent appreciation against the US dollar is expected to reverse post-elections, with FMIC-UA&P predicting a shift in bias due to widening trade deficits and a stable US dollar by the second quarter.
On fixed income, FMIC-UA&P expressed belief that the central bank may lower its policy rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 5.50 percent in its April 10 meeting.
“Even if it does not cut in its April meeting, we still think bond yields should ease 10-25 bps after April 15 [income tax deadline].
Above-6 percent GDP growth in Q1-2025 to be reported in early May would most likely turn this view into reality,” it said.
Risks to its outlook remain, the think tank said, particularly from potential large govern -
ment deficits or any election-related violence that could disrupt political stability. It added that US trade policies would have limited impact on the local bond market.
FMIC-UA&P also forecasts a market upswing beyond its current rangebound state after April 15, supported by a possible BSP rate cut and robust corporate earnings.
“Strong Q1-2025 earnings results and a 6.5-percent GDP growth rate should rally investor sentiment. Our preferred attractiveness measure [E/P less 10-year yield] is high, with such level last seen in April 2020,” the report noted
However, FMIC-UA&P warned that any political disruptions following the elections could pose significant risks to its outlook.
province. AP said in its report that one of the tourists was believed to have drowned while the other one was attacked by sharks. Sought for comment, DOT Spokesperson Czarina Zara-Loyola said, “We’re just waiting for the results of the investigation.”
Other tourists who perished in fatal incidents recently include: an American tourist shot while withdrawing from an ATM in Agusan del Sur in February; American vlogger Elliot Eastman who was kidnapped in Zamboanga del Norte last October; two Australians found dead at a hotel in Tagaytay City last July, among others. The Philippines is considered generally safe for tourists, but foreign governments have advised its citizens to think twice before traveling to certain places in Mindanao, as well as petty crimes like robberies in urban cities.
A WORKER sprays pesticides at a farm in Pulilan, Bulacan. PNA PHOTO BY JOAN BONDOC
Thursday, March 20, 2025
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Deluge of fake news prompts House panel to resume hearings
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE House of Representa -
tives Tri-Committee (TriComm) is set to hold its third public hearing on Friday to tackle the rising threat of online disinformation and fake news, with 11 social media personalities and vloggers, including former Presidential Communications Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles, facing potential contempt and detention for refusing to participate in the probe.
The committee resumes hearing in the wake of the deluge of fake news following the arrest and handover to the International Criminal Court (ICC) of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
The House Committees on Public Order and Safety, on Information and Communications Technology, and on Public Information had previously issued show cause orders to individuals accused of spreading misleading content online.
Despite multiple summonses, several individuals failed to appear before the panel, prompting lawmakers to escalate legal measures, including the issuance of subpoenae against the 11 vloggers.
Alongside Cruz-Angeles, those
facing contempt citations include Aeron Peña, Allan Troy “Sass” Rogando Sasot, Elizabeth Joie Cruz, Dr. Ethel Pineda Garcia, Jeffrey Almendras Celiz, Krizette Laureta Chu, Lorraine Marie Tablang Badoy-Partosa, Mark Anthony Lopez, Mary Jean Quiambao Reyes, and Richard Tesoro Mata.
Laguna Rep. Dan Fernandez, overall chairman of the TriComm, emphasized that the congressional inquiry aims to hold individuals accountable for disseminating false and manipulative content online.
“Disinformation is a national security issue. It erodes public trust [in the government], destabilizes institutions, and manipulates democratic discourse. We cannot allow social media to become a free-for-all platform for deception and propaganda,” Fernandez said. He added that the committee is enforcing contempt citations to uphold the integrity of congressional investigations.
“Congress has the authority to summon individuals to testify on matters of public interest. Ignoring lawful orders is a direct challenge to our institution and the democratic principles we protect,” he explained.
Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, lead chairman of the
DOJ dares Roque to return
JHouse Quad Committee, clarified that the inquiry into fake news dissemination is not an attempt to suppress freedom of speech or expression.
Barbers, whose privileged speech on December 16, together with a resolution authored by Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr., prompted the inquiry, made clear the purpose of the probe at the start of Tricomn’s hearings.
“I just would like to reiterate that the objective of the hearings the Tricom is conducting is not to suppress the freedom of expression or the freedom of speech,” Barbers said.
“In fact, we are all aware that this is provided for in our Constitution, and we’d like to respect the right of everyone to his opinion or to his expression. Contrary to what others may be thinking, this is not in any way a tool to suppress their expressions or opinions on certain issues, whether they may be political or economic or even other points of view,” Barbers added.
Barbers emphasized that lawmakers seek to establish guidelines and best practices for information dissemination on social media.
The scheduled hearing on Friday will also feature testimony
from key government agencies, social media platforms, media organizations, and civil society groups.
Officials from the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Commission on Elections (Comelec), Department of Justice (DoJ), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), and the National Police (PNP) have been invited to provide insight into regulatory and enforcement measures against disinformation.
The Tri-Comm has already issued show cause orders to the Philippine offices of Facebook and TikTok for failing to attend the previous hearing on disinformation.
Media organizations, including the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), Manila Broadcasting Company, PressOne.PH, and VERA Files, will present their findings on the extent of fake news proliferation.
Social media figures such as Jay Sonza, Vivian Velez, Enzo Recto, and George Ahmed Paglinawan have also been summoned to testify.
The Tri-Comm is expected to lay the foundation for legislative measures aimed at combating the deliberate spread of disinformation in the country.
Marbil vows: No more poll violence in Maguindanao
By Rex Anthony Naval
THE National Police chief, Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, on Wednesday pledged to eliminate electionrelated violence in Maguindanao in this year’s midterm elections.
In a statement, Marbil said the National Police (PNP) will not tolerate intimidation, coercion, or any attempt to subvert the democratic process.
He made this pledge during the recent “Political Candidates Forum and Peace Covenant Signing” at the 6th Infantry Division Headquarters in Awang, Cotabato City.
There, Marbil emphasized the police’s crucial role in ensuring a secure, fair, and orderly electoral process.
“The peace covenant is more than just a symbolic gesture— it is a solemn commitment to the Filipino people. The PNP will relentlessly pursue those who resort to violence and intimidation to manipulate elections. We will protect democracy, ensuring that leaders are chosen through ballots, not bullets,” he said.
With the theme “Safe and Peaceful Elections in Maguindanao: Secure and Fair Elections Promoting Equality, Accountability, Cooperation, Empowerment for Unity, and Lasting Peace,” the forum aimed to foster unity among political aspirants and community leaders, reinforcing their shared commitment to peace and the rule of law.
The “Peace Covenant Signing” also signified a collective pledge by candidates to respect election results, maintain peace, and reject the use of force or threats against political rivals.
This initiative forms part of the government’s broader efforts to dismantle the deeply rooted culture of electionrelated violence in the region.
By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
USTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Wednesday challenged former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque to return to the country and face human trafficking charges against him.
Remulla made the call even as the Department of Justice (DOJ) has yet to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to warrant the filing of charges against him before a trial court based on the complaint filed by the Presidential Anti-Organized
Crime Commission (Paocc) and the National Police- Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG).
“He should face the allegations against him. He should act like a true Filipino considering that he is a lawyer,” Remulla said at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay media forum held on Wednesday. Roque left the country after being cited in contempt by the House Quad Committee in 2024 for his refusal to cooperate with its investigation into his supposed links with illegal Philippine Offshorte Gaming Operations (Pogo) scam hubs.
‘Private impeachment prosecutors driven by justice, not grievances’
Roque was sighted in Tawi-Tawi on September 2, 2024 at around 9:30 a.m, according to the Bureau of Immigration.
The BI further revealed that Roque arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as confirmed by the Philippine Ambassador to the UAE on September 4, 2024.
Roque recently surfaced in the Netherlands together with Vice President Sara Duterte after former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested and handed over to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague to face trial for crimes against humanity involving at least 43 killings.
Roque maintains that he has the right to travel since no cases have been filed against him yet.
THE House of Representatives on
Wednesday said the participation of volunteer lawyers in the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte is driven by a commitment to justice, not personal grievances.
House Secretary General Reginald Velasco, in a statement, said that the legal team handling the impeachment case is composed of experienced professionals who are committed to uphold due process.
“Contrary to some reports, a certain law firm is not among the private lawyers engaged by the House. The legal team assisting our impeachment prosecutors is composed of seasoned professionals who are committed to ensure that due process is followed,” he said.
Also, he defended the role of volunteer lawyers, dismissing claims that their participation is driven by personal grievances.
“The volunteer lawyers assisting the House impeachment team are not merely driven by
He also confirmed that he is seeking political asylum in the Netherlands.
Remulla agreed that Roque’s passport cannot be cancelled since there is no case filed against him yet before any court that would warrant such action.
“That can only happen if there is a case filed. I don’t think that we want to violate anybody’s right to travel but when the case is filed then everything else will follow,” Remulla explained.
The former Palace official is being investigated by the DOJ for a possible qualified human trafficking case in connection with his alleged participation in the illegal activities of Pogo operator Lucky South 99.
anger, as some have suggested. Rather, they are dedicated to the cause of justice and public service. Many of them have extensive experience working with public prosecutors and have a deep understanding of the law. Their involvement is a testament to their commitment to uphold accountability and the rule of law,” he added.
Velasco reaffirmed the House’s commitment to transparency, due process, and truth while expressing gratitude for the support of legal experts and the general public in fulfilling their constitutional duties.
Velasco also shared his recent visit to the Senate, where he was “warmly” welcomed by the upper chamber.
He lauded the Senate leadership and staff for their professionalism and dedication to legislative work, emphasizing the importance of inter-chamber cooperation in strengthening democratic institutions for the benefit of the Filipino people.
As the elections draw closer, Marbil assured the public that the PNP, in close coordination with the Commission on Elections and the Armed Forces (AFP) are implementing intensified security measures to deter lawless elements and guarantee the safety of voters.
“The people deserve a Bagong Pilipinas where leaders are chosen through integrity, not fear. The PNP will not waver in its duty to uphold democracy and protect the people’s right to free and fair elections,” he stressed.
House assures impeachment court: Prosecution panel ready
THE leadership of the House of Representatives on Wednesday assured the Senate impeachment court that the prosecution panel is ready to present the case as soon as it is convened.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez commended Senate President Francis Escudero and the Senate leadership for their meticulous preparations ahead of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte in June.
“The House has done its part in transmitting the Articles of Impeachment, and our prosecution panel is ready to present the case as soon as the impeachment court is convened. We trust that the Senate will carry out its constitutional duty and proceed with the trial without unnecessary delays, in accordance with the rule of law,” he added.
Romualdez made these remarks following an inspection by House Secretary General Reginald S. Velasco and other House officials of the Senate facilities designated for the House prosecution team.
“The House Secretary General’s visit to the Senate reaffirmed the Senate’s readiness. Early and thorough preparations are essential to ensuring an orderly impeachment trial,” he noted.
Romualdez also assured the public of the prosecution team’s preparedness.
“Our House prosecutors have reported to me that they are ready to present the case the moment the Impeachment Court is convened,” he said.
He emphasized that the prosecution panel has meticulously reviewed the evidence and legal arguments to ensure a solid and fact-based presentation before the Senate acting as an impeachment court.
“The House prosecution panel will have the necessary facilities to conduct their work efficiently. We have the Senate to thank for this. It ensures that our representatives can fulfill their constitutional duty to present the impeachment case in a dignified and professional manner,” Romualdez said.
He also highlighted the importance of the Senate’s cooperation in ensuring a smooth trial process.
He reiterated that the impeachment trial is a solemn constitutional process and should be conducted with the highest level of integrity and impartiality.
The Speaker also assured that the House prosecution panel is fully committed to presenting their case with objectivity and adherence to the rule of law.
“We are here to follow the process laid out in our Constitution. The House has done its part in impeaching the vice president, and now it is up to the Senate to conduct a fair trial based on facts and evidence,” he said.
“We will continue to work closely with the Senate to ensure a fair, transparent, and credible impeachment trial. Our commitment is to the Filipino people and to the integrity of our democratic system,” he added.
Meanwhile, House Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V on Wednesday called on the Senate to prioritize the impeachment case against Duterte, arguing that if the Senate can hold hearings during recess, it should also be prepared to uphold its constitutional duty to act on the impeachment case.
“The Constitution is clear—impeachment is a constitutional mandate, not a political tool. If the Senate can convene during recess to discuss other matters, then it should also be ready to deliberate on the impeachment case against the Vice President,” Ortega, who represents La Union, said. The lawmaker pointed out that impeachment “is a serious process that requires transparency, urgency, and impartiality.”
While recognizing the Senate’s prerogative over its schedule, Ortega urged senators to demonstrate the same urgency in handling the impeachment case as they do with other pressing matters.
“If there is time for other issues even during recess, why not give due attention to a case with significant implications for our country? The Senate has the constitutional duty to act as the impeachment court, and we expect them to fulfillthis responsibility without hesitation,” he said.
Jovee
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Certain govt personnel must undergo AI training–Estrada
ARTIFICIAL Intelligence (AI) training should be
a must for government personnel, said Senate
President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada as he filed the enabling bill foreseen to be adopted by counterparts in the House of Representatives.
His bill proposes a specialized AI training program for specific government personnel.
“Skills gap is one of the challenges of the workforce, especially with the rise of generative AI. Government agencies must therefore start training and enhancing the capabilities of civil servants when it comes to AI,” Estrada said.
In Senate Bill 2930, or the proposed “Artificial Intelligence (AI) Training for Government Workforce Act,” Estrada noted that many companies worldwide have already integrated AI into their operations, while government agencies around the globe are actively working to understand AI and its impact on the public workforce.
“The debate and conversation around AI have been everywhere—whether it really helps people in their everyday lives or it is simply a threat to the global workforce. AI really has a lot of potential—from automating tasks to making it easier for complex questions to be answered in just a matter of seconds,” he said.
While there is an urgent need to create an agile and resilient workforce in light of technological advancements, Estrada stressed that the government must also strike a balance between harnessing AI’s benefits, managing its risks and seizing the opportunities it presents.
“Investing in AI training will not only future-proof the workforce but also improve services for the public,” he added.
Under SB 2930, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) shall formulate and lead an AI Training Program which wwill cover how AI works and its core concepts, its benefits for the government, potential risks like discrimination and privacy issues, future AI trends to include national security and innovation concerns, and provide risk mitigation strategies for safe and trustworthy AI.
Estrada also proposed to have the training, which will be funded under the yearly budget, to be conducted at least every two years.
Covered employees are those involved in program management, planning, research, development, engineering, testing, quality control, procurement, logistics, cost estimation, and others designated by the agency head for AI training. Butch Fernandez
DBM: ₧16.89 billion for subsistence allowance of military personnel out
ABy Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
TOTAL of P16.890 billion to increase the subsistence allowance for military officers and personnel has been approved for release by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
The issuance of the Special Allotment Release Order (Saro) amounting to P16.890 billion to cover the funding requirements for the subsistence allowance increase was approved by Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman on March 17.
This comes after President Marcos signed Executive Order (EO) 84 on March 14 to retroactively increase the subsistence allowance of officers and enlisted personnel of the Armed Forces (AFP) to P350 from P150 a day.
About P1.173 billion has been released to
the Navy (Naval Forces) under the Department of Defense (DND).
The Air Force also received P1.502 billion while the Marine Corps obtained P739.872 million.
Meanwhile, over P13.242 billion was freed up to the Army (Land Forces) and P233.280 million to the General Headquarters, AFP and AFP-Wide Service Support Units.
The fund will be charged against the available personnel services appropriation of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and General Headquarters. Under EO 84, the P150 allowance per day was increased due to the amount being no longer sufficient to meet the daily needs of an active-duty soldier.
The increase aims to protect and promote their welfare and recognize their sacrifices and perseverance in defending and upholding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Japan Embassy outsources visa applications in PHL
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
STARTING April 7, Filipinos wishing to travel to Japan will no longer be required to apply for their visas through accredited travel agencies.
Instead, all visa applications of Philippine-passport holders who are going to Japan must be coursed through a third-party service provider—the VFS Service Japan.
The Japanese Embassy in Manila announced Wednesday the launch of the Japan Visa Application Center (Jvac).
Starting March 19, the Jvac can already accept applications online: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/phl/en/jpn/ book-an-appointment.
The JVAC will be open in five locations all over the country where it can accept the visa applications—Makati, Parañaque, Quezon, Davao and Cebu cities.
“In light of the unprecedented surge in visa applications, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic, the Embassy of Japan decided to introduce the new “Visa Center,” which is going to start from April 2025.
This is to further enhance the efficiency and maintain the quality of the visa examination process, as well as to continue strengthening our robust people-to-people exchanges,” the Embassy said in its website.
Next to Hong Kong, Japan is the most popular destination of overseas-bound Filipino tourists.
In 2024, a record-breaking 818,700 Filipino tourists visited Japan, a 31.6 percent increase from 2023.
The yen was weak and flights from the Philippines to Japan increased and became
more affordable.
Hong Kong does not require visa for Philippine passport holders.
But Japan requires visas for Philippinepassport holders who will travel to Japan for tourism, family visits and business conference.
This immense popularity of Japan among Filipino travelers resulted in unprecedented increase of visa applications as well.
Last January, the Japanese Embassy has advised Filipinos to submit their visa applications up to two months in advance
Likewise, the AFP said the adjustment is part of its efforts to ensure the welfare of its personnel and its commitment to strengthening the well-being of its troops.
“This is a big help for the families of our soldiers. Imagine, the last time they received an allowance increase was in 2015—almost a decade ago. That’s why we are grateful to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for the swift approval of the Executive Order that authorizes the increase in the allowance of our military personnel,” Pangandaman said.
The increase will also apply to trainees and Probationary Second Lieutenants-Ensigns undergoing military training, Citizen Military Training cadets on summer camp training and reserve officers and enlisted reservists undergoing training and assembly/mobilization test, Citizen Armed Force Geographic Unit members and cadets.
before their schedule trip.
Since then, travel agencies were swamped with long lines, with some applicants sleeping in the garage of the building of the agencies.
The Japanese Embassy announced visa applications will no longer be accepted at the accredited agencies by April 6.
For those who applied through an accredited agency before April 6, the Embassy said the passports will be released through the agency.
For “urgent cases requiring humanitarian consideration, applicants may contact the Japanese Embassy in Manila or their consulate in Cebu or Davao,” the Embassy said.
Thursday, March 20, 2025
Netanyahu says Israeli strikes across Gaza that killed hundreds ‘only the beginning’
By Wafaa Shurafa, Josef Federman & Samy Magdy
The Associated Press
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip—Israel
launched airstrikes across the Gaza
Strip early Tuesday that killed more than 400 Palestinians, local health officials said, shattering a ceasefire in place since January as it vowed to force Hamas to release more hostages and relinquish control of the territory.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the strikes after Hamas refused Israeli demands to free half of the remaining hostages as a precondition for extending the ceasefire. Israel’s deadliest bombardment of the territory in the 17-month war killed mostly women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.
Netanyahu said the attack was “only the beginning” and that Israel would press ahead until it achieves all of its war aims— destroying Hamas and freeing all hostages held by the militant group.
Hamas said at least six senior officials were killed in Tuesday’s strikes. Israel said they included the head of Hamas’ civilian government, a justice ministry official and two security agency chiefs. All further ceasefire negotiations will take place “under fire,” he said in a statement aired on national television. The White House said it had been consulted and voiced support for Israel’s actions.
The Israeli military ordered people to evacuate eastern Gaza and head toward the center of the territory, indicating that Israel could soon launch renewed ground operations. The new campaign comes as aid groups warn supplies are running out two weeks after Israel cut off all food, medicine, fuel and other goods to Gaza’s 2 million Palestinians.
The pre-dawn barrage across Gaza struck homes and shelters and set a tent camp ablaze as families slept or prepared the “sohour,” the meal Muslims eat before they start the daily fast in the holy month of Ramadan. In Gaza City, Omar Greygaa said that after the strikes, he ran out to help survivors in a nearby stricken building.
“In every room I found the dead.... I finish in one place and go to another, and I find more dead,” he said. “I don’t know if we’re in a state of war or truce.”
The attack could signal the full resumption of a war that has already killed tens of thousands of Palestinians and caused widespread destruction across Gaza. It also raised concerns about the fate of the roughly two dozen hostages held by Hamas who are believed to still be alive.
A senior Hamas official said Netanyahu’s decision to return to war amounts to a “death sentence” for the remaining hostages. Izzat al-Risheq accused Netanyahu of launching the strikes to save his far-right governing coalition.
There were no reports of any attacks by Hamas several hours after the bombardment.
But Yemen’s Houthi rebels fired rockets toward Israel for the first time since the ceasefire began. The volley set off sirens in Israel’s southern Negev desert but was intercepted before it reached the country’s territory, the military said. The US over the weekend launched deadly strikes against the Iranian-backed Houthis.
Israel’s return to a military campaign came as Netanyahu faces mounting domestic pressure, with mass protests planned over his handling of the hostage crisis and his decision to fire the head of Israel’s internal security agency. His latest testimony in a long-running corruption trial was canceled after the strikes.
The strikes appeared to give Netanyahu a political boost. A far-right party led by Itamar Ben-Gvir that had bolted the government over the ceasefire announced Tuesday it was rejoining.
The main group representing families of the hostages accused the government of “deliberately dismantling” the ceasefire.
Thousands of Israelis packed a Tel Aviv square Tuesday evening to protest Netanyahu’s intention to fire the country’s domestic security chief and demand the government to resume negotiations for a hostage deal.
“Today Netanyahu did not open the gates of hell on Hamas. He opened the gates of hell on our loved ones,” said Einav Zangauker, whose son is among the hostages.
Wounded stream into Gaza hospitals
AFTER two months of relative calm during the ceasefire, stunned Palestinians found themselves once again digging loved ones out of rubble and holding funeral prayers over the dead at hospital morgues.
“Nobody wants to fight,” Nidal Alzaanin, a resident of Gaza City, said. “Everyone is still suffering from the previous months.”
A hit on a home in Rafah killed 17 members of one family, according to the European Hospital, which received the bodies. The dead included five children, their parents, and another father and his three children. Another in Gaza City killed 27 members of a family, half of them women and children, including a 1-year-old, according to a list of the dead put out by Palestinian medics.
By noon on Tuesday, Nasser Hospital had received the bodies of at least 28 children killed in recent violence, according to records shared by Ahmed Al-Farra, head of pediatrics and obstetrics.
At Khan Younis’s Nasser Hospital, patients lay on the floor, some screaming. A young girl cried as her bloody arm was bandaged. Wounded children overwhelmed the pediatric ward, said Dr Tanya Haj-Hassan, a volunteer with Medical Aid for Palestinians aid group.
She said she helped treat a 6-year-old girl with internal bleeding. When they pulled away her curly hair, they realized shrapnel had also penetrated the left side of her brain, leaving her paralyzed on the right side. She was brought in with no ID, and “we don’t know if her family survived,” Haj-Hassan said.
Gaza’s Health Ministry said the strikes killed at least 404 people and wounded more than 560. Zaher al-Waheidi, head of the ministry’s records department, said at least 263 of those killed were women or children under 18. He described it as the deadliest day in Gaza since the start of the war.
In his statement Tuesday, Netanyahu blamed Hamas for civilian casualties, saying it operates among the population.
The war has killed over 48,500 Palestinians, according to local health officials, and displaced 90 percent of Gaza’s population. The Health Ministry doesn’t differentiate between civilians and militants
but says over half of the dead have been women and children.
The war erupted when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking 251 hostages. Most have been released in ceasefires or other deals, with Israeli forces rescuing only eight and recovering dozens of bodies.
US backs Israel and blames Hamas
THE White House blamed Hamas for the renewed fighting. National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes said the militant group “could have released hostages to extend the ceasefire but instead chose refusal and war.”
The ceasefire deal that the US helped broker, however, did not require Hamas to release more hostages to extend the halt in fighting beyond its first phase.
An Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the unfolding operation, said Israel was striking Hamas’ military, leaders and infrastructure and planned to expand the operation beyond air attacks.
The official accused Hamas of attempting to rebuild and plan new attacks. Hamas militants and security forces quickly returned to the streets in recent weeks after the ceasefire went into effect. Hamas on Tuesday denied planning new attacks.
Israel had sought to change the ceasefire deal
UNDER the ceasefire that began in midJanuary, Hamas released 25 hostages and the bodies of eight more in exchange for more than 1,700 Palestinian prisoners as agreed in the first phase.
But Israel balked at entering negotiations over a second phase. Under the agreement, phase two was meant to bring the freeing of the remaining 24 living hostages, an end to the war and full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Israel says Hamas also holds the remains of 35 captives.
Instead, Israel demanded Hamas release half of the remaining hostages in return for a ceasefire extension and a vague promise to eventually negotiate a lasting truce. Hamas refused, demanding the two sides follow the original deal, which called for the halt in fighting to continue during negotiations over the second phase.
Israel says it will not end the war until
See “Netanyahu,” A7
Editor: Angel R. Calso • www.businessmirror.com.ph
Trump and Putin discuss pause in Ukraine strikes; confusion over key issues lingers
By Aamer Madhani, Vladimir Isachenkov & Zeke Miller
The Associated Press
ASHINGTON—President
WDonald Trump and Russian
President Vladimir Putin agreed during a lengthy call Tuesday to an immediate pause in strikes against energy infrastructure in the Ukraine war, but the Russian leader stopped short of backing a broader 30-day pause in fighting that the US administration is pressing for.
The White House described it as the first step in a “movement to peace” that it hopes will include a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea and eventually a full and lasting end to the fighting. But there was no indication that Putin has backed away from his conditions for a prospective peace deal, which are fiercely opposed by Kyiv. And shortly after the call ended, air raid alerts sounded in Kyiv, followed by explosions in the city. Local officials urged people to seek shelter.
Putin during the call reiterated his demand for an end to foreign military and intelligence assistance to Ukraine, according to the Kremlin. Trump, though, denied that the subject came up during an interview with Fox News on Tuesday.
“We didn’t talk about aid,” Trump said.
“We didn’t talk about aid at all.”
Russia also wants Ukraine to pull back its troops from the four regions that Moscow has annexed but never fully captured, renounce any prospect of joining the NATO military alliance and sharply cut its army.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told reporters that Ukraine is open to any proposals that lead to a sustainable and just peace, but stressed the need for full transparency in discussions.
Zelenskyy said he was seeking more details on what Putin and Trump agreed on, but rejected Putin’s demand for halting military aid and intelligence sharing to Ukraine, warning that such a move would weaken Ukraine.
“We need to understand what the conversation is about,” Zelenskyy said.
“What are the details? And hopefully, we will be fully informed, and our partners
will discuss everything with us.” He added: “There are two sides in this war—Russia and Ukraine. Trying to negotiate without Ukraine, in my view, will not be productive.” Ukrainian officials earlier this month proposed a ceasefire covering the Black Sea and long-range missile strikes and the release of prisoners.
Trump immediately cheered Tuesday’s development as a major step toward his ultimate goal of ending the biggest land war in Europe since World War II.
“We agreed to an immediate Ceasefire on all Energy and Infrastructure, with an understanding that we will be working quickly to have a Complete Ceasefire and, ultimately, an END to this very horrible War between Russia and Ukraine,” Trump said on social media.
Putin also told Trump that Russia and Ukraine are set to exchange 175 prisoners of war each on Wednesday, and Russia will also hand over to Ukraine 23 badly wounded soldiers, the Kremlin said. The limited pause comes as Trump still hopes to get Russia to sign off on his 30-day ceasefire proposal aimed at ending the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian officials last week agreed to the 30-day ceasefire proposal during talks in Saudi Arabia led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. White House special envoy Steve Witkoff then met with Putin in Moscow to discuss the proposal. Zelenskyy, however, remains skeptical that Putin is ready for peace as Russian forces continue to pound Ukraine.
“This is not a game where only Putin dictates the rules,” Zelenskyy said, making clear he remains doubtful that Putin was serious about wanting peace. The Trump-Putin engagement is just the latest turn in dramatically shifting US-Russia relations as Trump made quickly ending the conflict a top priority—even at the expense of straining ties with longtime American allies who want Putin to pay a price for the invasion.
Trump has at moments boasted of his relationship with Putin and blamed Ukraine for Russia’s unprovoked invasion, all while accusing Zelenskyy
See “Ukraine,” A7
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Roberts rejects Trump’s call for impeaching judge who ruled against his deportation plans
By Chris Megerian, Lindsay Whitehurst & Mark Sherman The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—In an extraordinary display of conflict between the executive and judiciary branches, Chief Justice John Roberts rejected calls for impeaching judges Tuesday, shortly after President Donald Trump demanded the removal of one who ruled against his deportation plans.
The rebuke from the Supreme Court’s leader demonstrated how the controversy over recent deportations of alleged Venezuelan gang members has inflamed tensions over the judiciary’s role, with a legal case challenging Trump’s actions now threatening to spiral into a clash of constitutional powers.
“For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision,” Roberts said. “The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose.”
The rare statement came just hours after a social media post from Trump, who described US District Judge James E. Boasberg as an unelected “troublemaker and agitator.” Boasberg had issued an order blocking deportation flights that Trump was carrying out by invoking wartime authorities from
of unnecessarily prolonging the biggest land war in Europe since World War II. Trump has said Washington and Moscow have already begun discussing “dividing up certain assets” between Ukraine and Russia as part of a deal to end the conflict.
He said before the call that control of land and power plants would be part of the conversation, which came on the anniversary of Russia annexing Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula 11 years ago. That bold land grab by Russia set the stage for Russia to invade its neighbor in 2022. But neither the White House nor Kremlin made any mention of land or power plants in their post-call statements.
Witkoff on Sunday suggested that US and Russian officials have discussed the fate of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant—Europe’s largest—in southern Ukraine. Russian troops seized the plant early in the war and it has been caught in the crossfire, fueling fears of a potential nuclear catastrophe.
The plant is a significant asset, producing nearly a quarter of Ukraine’s electricity in the year before the war.
After a disastrous February 28 White House meeting with Zelenskyy, Trump temporarily cut off some military intelligence-sharing and aid to Ukraine. It was restored after the Ukrainians last week signed off on the Trump administration’s 30-day ceasefire proposal.
In his dealings with Zelenskyy and Putin, Trump has frequently focused on who has the leverage. Putin has “the cards” and Zelenskyy does not, Trump has said repeatedly.
Trump, who has long shown admiration for Putin, has also made clear he’d like to see the US-Russia relationship return to a more normal footing.
The president during his recent contentious meeting with Zelenskyy
an 18th century law. “HE DIDN’T WIN ANYTHING! I WON FOR MANY REASONS, IN AN OVERWHELMING MANDATE, BUT FIGHTING ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION MAY HAVE BEEN THE NUMBER ONE REASON FOR THIS HISTORIC VICTORY,”
Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social. “I’m just doing what the VOTERS wanted me to do. This judge, like many of the Crooked Judges’ I am forced to appear before, should be IMPEACHED!!!”
Although Trump has routinely criticized judges, especially as they limit his efforts to expand presidential power, his latest post escalated his conflict with a judiciary that’s been one of the few restraints on his aggressive agenda. Impeachment is a rare step that is usually taken only in cases of grave ethical or criminal misconduct.
In an interview with Fox News later on Tuesday, Trump empha -
grumbled that “Putin went through a hell of a lot with me,” a reference to the federal investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election in which he beat Democrat Hillary Clinton.
Trump on Tuesday again underscored his view that Ukraine is not in a strong negotiating position. He said Russian forces have surrounded Ukrainian troops in Russia’s Kursk region—amplifying an assertion made by Russian officials that’s been disputed by Zelenskyy.
“They are nicely encircled, and that’s not good,” said Trump, according to excerpts of an interview on Fox News Channel’s “Ingraham Angle.” “And we want to get it over with.”
Ukraine’s army stunned Russia in August last year by attacking across the border and taking control of an estimated 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) of land. But Ukraine’s forces are now in retreat and it has all but lost a valuable bargaining chip, as momentum builds for a ceasefire with Russia.
The White House said Trump and Putin also discussed the situation in the Middle East and agreed “Iran should never be in a position to destroy Israel.”
US officials have previously said that Iran has provided Russia with shortrange ballistic missiles and attack drones for the war in Ukraine. The US has also said that Iran has assisted Russia with building a drone-manufacturing factory.
The Kremlin said that Trump also expressed support for an idea floated by Putin to organize hockey matches in the United States and Russia between Russian and American players from the National Hockey League, which has US and Canadian teams, and the Kontinental Hockey League, which includes teams from Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and China.
Isachenkov reported from Moscow. AP writer Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv contributed reporting.
sized that Roberts “didn’t mention my name in his statement,” suggesting that the chief justice could have been referring to other people who have said Boasberg should be impeached.
Trump said Boasberg had overstepped his authority by interfering with deportation plans.
“That’s a presidential job,” he said. “That’s not for a local judge to be making that determination.”
Trump said he would not ignore a court order, a step that his administration has already been accused of taking.
“No, you can’t do that. However, we have bad judges,” Trump said. He added that “at a certain point, you have to start looking at what do you do when you have a rogue judge.”
The relationship between Roberts and Trump has shifted through the years. Roberts emphasized judicial independence during Trump’s first term, taking issue with the president’s description of a judge who rejected his migrant asylum policy as an “Obama judge” in 2018.
Before Trump was sworn in for his second term, Roberts warned against threats to the judiciary and called for even unpopular court decisions to be respected.
The chief justice also had a prominent role in a major ruling last year that said presidents have broad immunity from criminal prosecution. The decision helped Trump avoid one of his criminal trials before the election that returned him to the White House.
Trump greeted Roberts warmly earlier this month, thanking him and saying, “I won’t forget,” as the
justices attended his address to a joint session of Congress. The president said later he was thanking Roberts for swearing him into office.
The latest dispute involving the judiciary comes after a court challenged his invocation of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. It has been used only three times before in US history, all during congressionally declared wars. Trump issued a proclamation that the law was newly in effect due to what he claimed was an invasion by the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. His administration is paying El Salvador to imprison alleged members of the gang.
Boasberg, who was appointed by President Barack Obama, convened a hearing on Monday to discuss what he called “possible defiance” of his order after two deportation flights continued to El Salvador despite his verbal or -
der that they be turned around to the US.
Trump administration lawyers defended their actions, saying Boasberg’s written order wasn’t explicit, while an attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union said “I think we’re getting very close” to a constitutional crisis.
The Justice Department is also pushing in court to have Boasberg removed from the case.
The Constitution gives the House of Representatives, where Republicans hold a slim majority, the power to impeach a judge with a simple majority vote. But, like a presidential impeachment, any removal requires a vote from a two-thirds majority of the Senate.
The president’s latest social media post aligns him more with allies like billionaire Elon Musk, who has made similar demands.
“What we are seeing is an attempt by one branch of govern -
ment to intimidate another branch from performing its constitutional duty. It is a direct threat to judicial independence,” Marin Levy, a Duke University School of Law professor who specializes in the federal courts, said in an e-mail.
Only one day earlier, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “I have not heard the president talk about impeaching judges.”
Just 15 judges have been impeached in the nation’s history, according to the US court’s governing body, and just eight have been removed.
The last judicial impeachment was in 2010. G. Thomas Porteous Jr. of New Orleans was impeached on charges he accepted bribes and then lied about it. He was convicted by the Senate and removed from office in December 2010. Calls to impeach judges have been rising as Trump’s sweeping agenda faces pushback in the courts, and at least two members of Congress have said online they plan to introduce articles of impeachment against Boasberg. House Republicans already have filed articles of impeachment against two other judges, Amir Ali and Paul Engelmayer, over rulings they’ve made in Trump-related lawsuits.
Leavitt is one of three administration officials who face a lawsuit from The Associated Press on First- and Fifth-amendment grounds. The AP says the three are punishing the news agency for editorial decisions they oppose. The White House says the AP is not following an executive order to refer to the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America.
Hungary’s anti-LGBTQ+ law bans Pride events and sparks protests
By Justin Spike The Associated Press
BUDAPEST, Hungary—A new antiLGBTQ+ law banning Pride events and allowing authorities to use facial recognition software to identify those attending the festivities was passed in Hungary on Tuesday, leading to a large demonstration on the streets of Budapest.
Several thousand protesters chanting anti-government slogans gathered after the vote outside Hungary’s parliament. They later staged a blockade of the Margaret Bridge over the Danube, blocking traffic and disregarding police instructions to leave the area.
The move by Hungarian lawmakers is part of a crackdown on the country’s LGBTQ+ community by the nationalist-populist party of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who is an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump.
The measure, which is reminiscent of similar restrictions against sexual minorities in Russia, was passed in a 136-27 vote. The law, supported by Orbán’s Fidesz party and their minority coalition partner the Christian Democrats, was pushed through parliament in an accelerated procedure after being submitted on Monday.
Opposing legislators led a vivid protest in the legislature involving rainbow-colored smoke bombs.
At the protest outside parliament, Evgeny Belyakov, a Russian citizen who immigrated to Hungary after facing repression in Russia, said the legislation went at the heart of people’s rights to
peacefully assemble.
“It’s quite terrifying to be honest, because we had the same in Russia. It was building up step by step, and I feel like this is what is going on here,” he said. “I just only hope that there will be more resistance like this in Hungary, because in Russia we didn’t resist on time and now it’s too late.”
What does the law say?
THE bill amends Hungary’s law on assembly to make it an offense to hold or attend events that violate Hungary’s contentious “child protection” legislation, which prohibits the “depiction or promotion” of homosexuality to minors under 18.
Attending a prohibited event will carry fines up to 200,000 Hungarian forints ($546), which the state must forward to “child protection,” according to the text of the law. Authorities may use facial recognition tools to identify individuals attending a prohibited event.
In a statement on Monday after lawmakers first submitted the bill, Budapest Pride organizers said the aim of the law was to “scapegoat” the LGBTQ+ community in order to silence voices critical of Orbán’s government.
“This is not child protection, this is fascism,” wrote the organizers of the event, which attracts thousands each year and celebrates the history of the LGBTQ+ movement while asserting the equal rights of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community.
Following the law’s passage Tuesday, Budapest Pride spokesperson Jojó Majercsik told The Associated Press that despite
Orbán’s yearslong effort to stigmatize LGBTQ+ people, the organization had received an outpouring of support since the Hungarian leader hinted in February that his government would take steps to ban the event.
“Many, many people have been mobilized,” Majercsik said. “It’s a new thing, compared to the attacks of the last years, that we’ve received many messages and comments from people saying, ‘Until now haven’t gone to Pride, didn’t care about it, but this year I’ll be there and I’ll bring my family.’”
Government crackdown
THE new legislation is the latest step against LGBTQ+ people taken by Orbán, whose government has passed other laws that rights groups and other European politicians have decried as repressive against sexual minorities.
In 2022, the European Union’s executive commission filed a case with the EU’s highest court against Hungary’s 2021 child protection law. The European Commission argued that the law “discriminates against people on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender identity.”
Hungary’s “child protection” law—aside from banning the “depiction or promotion” of homosexuality in content available to minors, including in television, films, advertisements and literature—also prohibits the mention of LGBTQ+ issues in school education programs, and forbids the public depiction of “gender deviating from sex at birth.”
Booksellers in Hungary have faced hefty
fines for failing to wrap books that contain LGBTQ+ themes in closed packaging. Critics have argued Orbán’s campaign amounts to an attempt to cut LGBTQ+ visibility, and that by tying it to child protection, it falsely conflates homosexuality with pedophilia. Hungary’s government argues that its policies are designed to protect children from “sexual propaganda.”
Is Orbán trying to distract the electorate?
HUNGARY’S methods resemble tactics by Putin, who in December 2022 expanded Russia’s ban on “propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations” from minors to adults, effectively outlawing any public endorsement of LGBTQ+ activities. Orbán, in power since 2010, faces an unprecedented challenge from a rising opposition party as Hungary’s economy struggles to emerge from an inflation and cost of living crisis as an election approaches in 2026.
Tamás Dombos, a project coordinator at Hungarian LGBTQ+ rights group Háttér Society, said that Orbán’s assault on minorities was a tactic to distract voters from more important issues facing the country. He said allowing the use of facial recognition software at prohibited demonstrations could be used against other protests the government chooses to deem unlawful.
“It’s a very common strategy of authoritarian governments not to talk about the real issues that people are affected by: the inflation, the economy, the terrible condition of education and health care,” Dombos said.
SUPREME Court Chief Justice John Roberts speaks at the University of Nebraska Lincoln, in Lincoln, Neb., September 19, 2014. AP/NATI HARNIK
March 20, 2024
NFA: Paddy rice purchases surge in January
NFA said.
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE National Food Authority (NFA) said its procurement of paddy rice jumped more than eightfold in January due to its “competitive buying prices.”
The NFA said it procured 282,033 50-kilo bags or 14,101.65 metric tons (MT) of palay in the first month of the year, higher by 782.12 percent than the 31,972 bags or 1,598.6 MT purchased in January 2024. However, the grains agency noted that it fell short of its procurement target of 409,800 bags or 20,490 MT for January. “NFA [is] still able to exceed more than 50 percent of its monthly target despite the post-harvest season and it is largely attributed to the implementation of Pricers [Price Range Scheme],” the NFA said
in its latest accomplishment report.
Under the grains agency’s program, the NFA buys clean and dry palay at P23 to P30 per kilo while the price of fresh and wet palay ranges from P17 to P23 per kilo.
This flexible price scheme changes weekly per province.
Meanwhile, the NFA said it had a total rice inventory of 5.78 million bags or 289,178 MT at the end of January. “It should be noted that NFA’s
DA: New budget process aims to transform agri sector
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is adopting a multi-year budget planning process as it moves away from the “business-as-usual” approach to significantly raise the country’s food production and cut poverty.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the new initiative is part of a broader strategy to achieve “more meaningful results in the DA’s programs.”
“[This] ensures that every peso spent contributes directly to achieving long-term goals, such as poverty reduction, farmer welfare, and sustainable economic growth,” he said in a statement.
He said a major development in its budget process is the introduction of a standardized set of
criteria to evaluate the department’s programs, activities, and projects.
These criteria, according to Laurel, are designed to assess the impact of proposed initiatives on critical areas such as poverty reduction, income improvement for farmers and fishers, enhanced nutrition, and reducing dependency on food imports.
“Additionally, the program and budget evaluation will focus on the cost efficiency, feasibility, and the technical and absorptive capacity of implementing agencies.”
He also urged DA officials to challenge the status quo in pursuit of agricultural transformation.
“The DA’s four-year framework, Para sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas, will guide the department’s
budget planning and strategic initiatives,” he said.
“This framework is aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s agenda to significantly reduce the country’s poverty rate from 18 percent to 9 percent by 2028. In this context, the newly established evaluation criteria will not only enhance resource allocation but also serve as a tool to measure progress toward these national development goals.”
Laurel said a cornerstone of this strategy is strengthening the resilience and efficiency of the agriculture and fisheries sectors to create “a more equitable environment for farmers, fishers, and rural communities.”
“Through this initiative, we aim to maximize the benefits of
inventory is 13 percent of the country’s national rice inventory.”
The agency distributed 86,412 bags or 4,320.6 MT of milled rice during the reference month, 23.7 percent of its target of 364,655 bags or 18,232.75 MT.
“The low distribution accomplishment is due to the low demand for NFA rice and minimal requests from calamity relief government agencies.”
It distributed 1,799.8 MT of rice to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Office of Civil Defense (OCD), legislators, and local governments for relief operations and calamity response.
About 798.35 MT of rice were distributed to government agencies and local government units (LGU) rice requirement under the Executive Order 51 program, the
our investments to ensure food security for the nation and uplift the lives of our rural heroes—our farmers and fisherfolk.”
In August 2024, Laurel proposed a budget of P513.81 billion for this year to address the severe lack of farm infrastructure.
He said the severe lack of investments in agriculture for almost four decades led to the declining contribution of the sector to GDP.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that the output of almost all subsectors registered declines in 2024. The crops subsector contracted by 6.3 percent; livestock, 4 percent; and fisheries, 5 percent.
Only the poultry subsector registered a production increase at 6.6 percent in 2024. Ada Pelonia
FNI net income slumps on low nickel prices in 2024
LOBAL Ferronickel Hold -
Gings Inc. (FNI) reported that its net income attributable to shareholders plunged by 51 percent year-on-year due to low nickel prices and demand fluctuations.
In a report on Wednesday, FNI said its net income attributable to shareholders stood at P743.9 million in 2024 compared with last year’s P1.5 billion.
The company said the average realized nickel ore price dropped by 27.1 percent to $24.26 per wet metric ton (WMT) last year from $33.28 in 2023.
Low-grade ores sold for an average of $19.58 per WMT, down 23.9 percent; while medium-grade ores were priced at $33.06 per WMT, down 29.1 percent.
The company said various factors
affected market prices, including demand fluctuations in China and Indonesia, stainless steel and lowgrade nickel pig iron production, supply chain disruptions from maintenance shutdowns of some steel mills, and the supply growth in Indonesia which outweighed production cuts and mine closures in the rest of the world.
“While market conditions are beyond our control, we are laying a strong foundation for the future by funding growth and unlocking efficiencies,” FNI President Dante R. Bravo said.
“In 2024, we sustained doubledigit volume growth, reduced our average cash operating cost per volume sold, and reinvested back in the business. Looking ahead, we will build on these achievements as we continue to advance on our strategy
to capture new revenue streams and deliver profit growth.”
FNI said its mining revenues settled at P7.592 billion in 2024, which registered a 13.4 percent contraction due to the drop in nickel ore prices. This was slightly offset by strong volumes.
By mine site, Surigao revenues fell by 3.1 percent to P4.667 billion while Palawan revenues plunged by 25.9 percent to P2.925 billion.
“By geography, shipments to China made up 93 percent of revenues followed by Indonesia at 7 percent.”
Surigao led the company’s volume growth with 3.991 million WMT, an increase of 21.1 percent, following the addition of more equipment, including chartered landing craft tanks (LCTs) and dump trucks.
“Favorable weather conditions at the beginning of the year, allowed ore extraction and stockpiling activities to be in place ahead of the mining season.”
In Palawan, FNI said the volume shipped was 1.457 million WMT, up 2.6 percent, driven by favorable weather conditions, further development of infrastructure such as mine facilities and causeway, increased equipment availability, and beneficial impact from efficiency initiatives mostly in logistics and human resources.
The company’s capital expenditure (capex) reached P1.004 billion, up 15.6 percent from P869 million in 2023, representing 13.2 percent of revenues. Investments in the services segment accounted for 56.8 percent of the total capex. Ada Pelonia
Eat grass-fed beef, help the planet? Research says not so simple
FBy Melina Walling The Associated Press
OR cattle fattened in fields instead of feedlots, the grass may be greener, but the carbon emissions are not.
A study out Monday in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences finds that even in the most optimistic scenarios, grassfed beef produces no less planetwarming carbon emissions than industrial beef. The finding calls into question the frequent promotion of grass-fed beef as a more environmentally friendly option. Still, other scientists say grassfed beef wins out on other factors like animal welfare or local environmental pollution, complicat -
ing the choice for conscientious consumers.
“I think that there is a large portion of the population who really do wish their purchasing decisions will reflect their values,” said Gidon Eshel, a research professor of environmental physics at Bard College and one of the study’s authors. “But they are being misled, essentially, by the wrong information.”
When it comes to food, beef contributes by far the most emissions fueling climate change and is one of the most resource- and landintensive to produce. Yet demand for beef around the world is only expected to grow. And carefully weighing the benefits of grass-fed beef matters because in most parts of the world where beef produc -
tion is expanding, such as South America, it’s being done by deforesting land that would otherwise store carbon, said Richard Waite of the World Resources Institute.
Experts say this study’s finding makes sense because it’s less efficient to produce grass-fed cattle than their industrial counterparts. Animals that are fattened up in fields instead of feedlots grow more slowly and don’t get as big, so it takes more of them to produce the same amount of meat.
The researchers used a numerical model of the emissions produced across the process of raising beef, then simulated many herds of industrial and grass-fed cattle. It compared differences in how much food they would eat, how much
methane and carbon dioxide they would emit and how much meat they would produce. Those differences mirror real-life scenarios; cattle in arid New Mexico and lush northern Michigan have different inputs and outputs.
Eshel and his team also analyzed previous studies that examined how much cattle grazing promotes carbon storage, but found that even in the best-case scenarios, the amount of carbon that grasses could sequester didn’t make up for the emissions of the cattle.
Randy Jackson, a professor of grassland ecology at University of Wisconsin-Madison who was not involved in the study, said he has found similar results in his own re -
This year, the NFA is targeting to procure as much as 880,000 MT of palay to meet its new buffer stock requirement of 15 days as stipulated under the amended Rice Tariffication Law (RTL). Under the amended RTL, the NFA should maintain a buffer stock enough to cover 15 days of national rice consumption, up from the previous nine-day requirement.
At an average of daily consumption of 37,000 MT, the additional reserve of six days would require the agency to procure roughly 300,000 MT of palay from local farmers at around P23 per kilo. Lacson said the initial allocation of P9 billion for palay procurement this year should be doubled to achieve its new buffer stocking requirement.
Ex-senator plans to expand tomato procurement program
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
COMEBACKING Senator Kiko Pangilinan announced plans to expand Oplan Sagip Kamatis to more local government units (LGUs) following its successful pilot run in Rizal, Nueva Ecija.
“Tuloy-tuloy iyan. We are already reaching out to several LGUs to implement this initiative,” Pangilinan told the media during his visit to Tagbilaran, Bohol, on Wednesday.
Oplan Sagip Kamatis was launched to rescue surplus tomatoes that would have otherwise gone to waste, ensuring fair prices for farmers while addressing food security needs.
The initiative is made possible by the Sagip Saka Act, a law authored by Pangilinan that allows LGUs to directly purchase produce from farmers and fisherfolk without the need for public bidding.
“Ito mismo ang dahilan kung bakit natin ipinasa ang Sagip Saka Act— para hindi na dumanas ng kawalan ang ating mga magsasaka,” he said.
“ Dahil sa batas na ito, puwede nang bumili ang mga LGU nang direkta sa ating farmers at fisherfolk. Wala nang bidding, walang middleman, kaya mas mataas ang kita ng mga magsasaka.”
The initiative’s pilot run in Nueva Ecija prevented massive food wastage, with 12 tons of tomatoes “rescued” and sold at fair prices. The Muntinlupa
search showing that grass-fed beef has higher emissions assuming the same demand. In fact, Eshel’s team cited his work. But he worries that the study is too focused on minimizing emissions “without concern for the environmental impacts beyond GHG load to the atmosphere,” like biodiversity and soil and water quality, he wrote in an email.
The American Grassfed Association, a nonprofit membership group for producers of grass-fed livestock, did not immediately provide a comment on the study.
Jennifer Schmitt, who studies the sustainability of US agricultural supply chains at the University of Minnesota and also wasn’t involved in the study, said she thinks the paper “helps us get a little closer to answering the question of maybe how much beef should
City government purchased five tons at P25 per kilo for its feeding programs and calamity relief efforts—far above the P4 per kilo price that farmers were initially forced to sell at.
“Ang bentahan noon sa Nueva Ecija, P4 pero kilo, binili ng LGU ng 25 pesos. So times seven halos ang kinita ng ating mga magsasaka, hindi sila binarat,” he said.
Pangilinan is calling on more LGUs to follow Muntinlupa’s lead and maximize the Sagip Saka Act to support local farmers and fisherfolk.
“We are now calling on other LGUs na gawin ito. Wala nang public bidding pag direktang binili sa ating mga magsasaka at mga mangingisda ang pagkain. Tataas ang kita ng magsasaka at makakatipid ang LGU. Lahat makikinabang.”
During his visit to Bohol, Pangilinan also met with supporters and volunteers, expressing his deep appreciation for their commitment.
“Pag nakikita ko ang mainit na pagtanggap, paninindigan at pagtatayo ng ating mga volunteers, sa inyo ako kumukuha ng inspirasyon, sa inyo ako kumukuha ng dagdag na tapang para ituloy ang pinaglalaban natin,” he told the crowd.
As Oplan Sagip Kamatis expands, Pangilinan’s advocacy for fair farmgate prices and a food-secure Philippines continues to gain ground, proving that real solutions exist when governance prioritizes the welfare of farmers and consumers alike.
we have on the landscape versus plant proteins,” she said.
Schmitt said maybe if beef was scaled back on a large enough scale and if farmers could free up more cropland for other foods that humans eat, the localized environmental benefits of grassfed cattle could make up for the fact that they come with higher emissions.
It would be harder to convince Eshel, however. He thinks climate change is “second to none” when it comes to global problems and should be prioritized as such.
“I have a hard time imagining, even, a situation in which it will prove environmentally, genuinely wise, genuinely beneficial, to raise beef,” Eshel said. For consumers who truly want to be environmentally conscious, he added, “don’t make beef a habit.”
FRESHLY harvested rice in the Philippines is shown in this file photo. BLOOMBERG
No AFP edict restricting civilians on social media
By Rex Anthony Naval
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday denied reports claiming that it had issued orders restricting civilians of their right to freedom
of expression in social media.
The alleged order also includes family members of family members of military personnel.
In a statement Wednesday, AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said no such order came from their side regarding
this matter.
“The AFP has not issued any guidance restricting the freedom of expression of civilians, including the families of military personnel, on social media,” he clarified.
Also, Trinidad said the recent
visits of AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. in various military units nationwide is aimed at reinforcing the importance of professionalism, discipline, and mission focus among military personnel, and not for anything else.
“These internal engagements
House panel chair calls for Asean cooperation against human trafficking after repatriation of 187 Filipinos
By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE chairman of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs on Wednesday urged increased cooperation among Southeast Asian nations to combat human trafficking, following the repatriation of 187 Filipino victims from Myanmar.
Rep. Jude Acidre, chair of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs, emphasized the need for stronger regional efforts as he commended the Philippine government for its swift and coordinated response in bringing
home the victims.
He also acknowledged the crucial collaboration with Thai and Myanmar authorities in the repatriation effort.
“This decisive action among ASEAN member states underscores the urgent need to address the growing human trafficking crisis in the region. It serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing threat that human trafficking poses to vulnerable individuals and communities,” he said. While celebrating the safe return of the 187 victims, Acidre expressed concern for the 62 Filipinos still trapped in trafficking compounds in Myanmar.
“Their plight highlights the relentless nature of human trafficking, which preys on the most marginalized members of society. This situation calls for robust preventive measures, enhanced law enforcement collaboration, and heightened public awareness campaigns to shield our citizens from falling victim to these criminal enterprises,” Acidre added.
TINGOG Party-list, represented by both Acidre and Rep. Yedda K. Romualdez, called on all government agencies to intensify efforts in identifying, rescuing, and supporting trafficking victims.
Isabela bridge collapse investigation to wrap up next month, says Palace
MALACAÑANG said the investigation on the collapse of the P1.225billion Cabagan-Santa Maria bridge in Isabela is expected to be completed by next month.
In a press briefing last Wednesday, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said (DPWH) Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan already created a special committee to look into the matter.
“According to Secretary Bonoan, they already created a special committee to conduct an investigation on the collapse of Sta. Maria Bridge. The [report’s] due
date should be April 25. So, we will just check what will be the update, at the latest it will be April 25,” Castro said. The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) undersecretary made the remark when asked about the criticisms of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on the slow pace of the DPWH probe on the matter.
Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, who heads the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, criticized Bonoan’s handling of the issue and said the DPWH chief should be fired for it.
The lawmaker also raised concern why no DPWH official was placed under preventive suspension, while the investigation on the bridge collapse is ongoing.
Castro expressed her reservation on putting Bonoan under preventive suspension, especially since it is yet to be proven that he is the “most involved” in the collapse of the bridge.
“We will see. We are not going to [immediately impose the suspension]. Whoever is responsible will be held responsible,” she said.
“Furthermore, we advocate for stronger regional cooperation among ASEAN member states to forge a unified and comprehensive response to human trafficking, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their crimes,” Acidre said.
Acidre reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to advancing policies that protect the rights and welfare of Filipinos abroad.
“Let this repatriation serve as a catalyst for all stakeholders to renew their dedication to combating human trafficking, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in such dire situations,” he said.z
She also said those, who may be held liable over the issue, may not be part of the government.
“If the people involved are not in the government, they will not be subject to preventive suspension,” Castro said.
Earlier this month, President Ferdinand Marcos vowed to hold accountable those who are responsible for the collapse of the Cabagan-Santa bridge, which he attributed to design flaw and overloading.
The 990-meters Cabagan-Santa Maria bridge, which has a carrying capacity of just 44 tons, collapsed on 27 February 2025 after three dump trucks carrying boulders each with approximate gross vehicle weight of around 102 tons passed on it. Samuel P. Medenilla
Remulla laments Malaysia’s ‘stonewalling’ on Guo’s escape
Jare vital for strengthening the AFP’s core values and operational effectiveness,” he added.
Trinidad also said the AFP upholds the right to freedom of expression for all Filipino citizens and stressed that they encouraged responsible online engagement
and critical evaluation of information to mitigate the spread of disinformation.
“The AFP remains dedicated to transparency, professionalism, and constructive engagement with both its personnel and the public,” he added.
OFW Facilitation Center to open soon at Mactan Cebu International Airport
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
THE Department of Migrant of Workers (DMW) has announced an overseas Filipino workers (OFW) Center will soon be constructed at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA).
Last Wednesday, DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC), and Cebu Air, Inc. for the construction of the new center at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City.
Under agreement, Cebu Pacific Inc. will partially finance the project while the ACAC will provide the free-of-charge six square meter space in Terminal 2 of the MCIA for a period of five years.
The center will serve as a onestop service hub, offering essential services, like the verification of their pre-departure documents, such as their OEC or exit clearance, and immediate assistance with their concerns before departure and eventual return.
Cacdac lauded the construction of the new facility, which he said aims to recognize the invaluable contributions of OFWs to the economy.
Gatchalian prods
“It will be a place where OFWs and their families can find comfort, guidance, and a sense of community,” Cacdac said. He said it is part of their efforts to comply with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos “to streamline OFW processes and improve accessibility of its services for the OFWs’ convenience and comfort.”
MCIAA General Manager and CEO Julius G. Neri said they are ready to expand the center if necessary.
“I would like to emphasize since we are an airport known for passengers' experience, we adjust very quickly to whatever the needs are. If traffic improves, we will put up a bigger area, right away,” Neri said. For her part, Cebu Pacific Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer Candice Iyog said the facility aims to provide “seamless access to essential services” to OFWs.
“This partnership is part of our ongoing commitment to making air travel more convenient and responsive to the needs of overseas Filipino workers,” Iyog said. MCIA is one of the country’s busiest airport as it accommodates 21 airlines going to 14 international destinations.
BI to enforce stringent deportation protocols for POGO workers
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
Sback to their old ways,” Gatchalian said, recalling revelations at a recent Senate hearing.
By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
USTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla lamented Malaysia’s refusal to cooperate with the Philippine government’s investigation on the escape of dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo last year.
During Wednesday’s Kapihan sa Manila Bay media forum, Remulla said Malaysia has vital information that could have helped in determining how Guo escaped via the country’s backdoor to Sabah, Malaysia.
“The case of Alice Guo is a very peculiar case because Malaysia refused to cooperate with us. Malaysia is supposed to give us the information,” Remulla said
“They know what flight entered, what aircraft entered, where she was riding but they refused to give it to us,” he added.
Remulla linked Malaysia’s indifference towards the Philippines’ request over its dispute with the Sultans of Sulu over Sabah’s ownership.
Remulla confirmed that
Comelec: Fewer areas under election threats
T HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has reported a slight decrease in the number of areas facing election-related threats as the May 12 polls approach. Latest data from the commission shows that the number of areas under the orange category has dropped from 177 to 156, while those under the red category have decreased from 38 to 36. Comelec classifies election hotspots into different categories based on the severity of threats and the area’s history of election-related violence.
T he red category covers areas with serious armed threats and a record of violent incidents during elections.
T he orange category includes areas with significant armed threats, while the yellow category refers to places with a
history of election-related incidents but no immediate threats. Most of the areas under the red category remain in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), which has 30. One area each is in Northern Mindanao and Eastern Visayas. For the orange category, the highest number of areas is in the Bicol Region at 35, followed by BARMM with 27, Caraga with 16, and Eastern Visayas and SOCCSKARGEN with 13 each. Several other regions also have smaller numbers of orange-tagged areas. Meanwhile, the number of areas under the yellow category has slightly increased from 188 to 194.
BARMM still has the most y ellow-tagged areas at 37, followed by Zamboanga Peninsula with 36 and the Negros Island Region with 22. Other regions also have varying
he was referring to the award of $14.9 billion to the descendants of the Sultan of Sulu issued by a French arbitration court in February 2022 against Malaysia.
The ruling, however, was set aside by a Paris court.
“For some reasons that were alluded to about the cases of our brothers in the south that won a judgment in Paris and they wanted a deal for that matter,” Remulla said.
He added that all concerned agencies, including the Department of Foreign Affairs
numbers of areas under this category.
In an interview on Wednesday, Comelec
Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia said the latest figures indicate an improvement in election security.
“So far, so good. When we compare election-related violence in 2019 and 2022, this is significantly lower than in previous elections,” he said.
Garcia added that there are still no areas under full Comelec control, as the situation across the country remains manageable.
However, he cautioned against complacency, especially with the start of the local campaign period, when election-related violence tends to rise in some areas.
“In certain areas, definitely. But hopefully, the peace covenants we are implementing in various municipalities and cities will have a positive impact on the general peace and order situation,” he added. Justine Xyrah Garcia
(DFA) have exerted efforts to convince Malaysia to cooperate to no avail.
“We did everything.
We were already at the DFA level but we faced a stonewall,” Remulla said. Guo was brought back to the country last September after almost two months in hiding in Tangerang City, Jakarta, Indonesia.
She is now detained at the Pasig City Jail female dormitory pending her trial for qualified human trafficking and other possible criminal charges.
ENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian, prodded the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to enforce more stringent deportation protocols for former workers in the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) industry that was outlawed at the beginning of this year.
The senator said POGO workers, for instance, should not be allowed to take a lay-over flight as this enables some of them to evade accountability in their respective country of origin by fleeing to a third country, and they could possibly go back to their criminal activities.
“It doesn’t make sense that we catch these criminals, we deport them, and yet allow them to escape via a transit flight until they can return to the Philippines and go
“My suggestion is for the Bureau of Immigration to change its policy and just bring the deportees back to their country of origin para doon sila litisin ,” he added, to which Immigration Chief Joel Viado replied with a commitment to prevent their re-entry into the Philippines especially if they are already on the blacklist.
Moreover, the senator further noted that many POGO deportees have the connection and the means to evade authorities if they want to.
“I have received information that around March 7, about 21 deportees were supposed to be transported back to China but were instead diverted to Kuala Lumpur and eventually went to Cambodia,” he said.
Filipino artists worldwide show support for Mary Jane Veloso’s clemency
FILIPINO artists and cultural groups in the Philippines and overseas released a joint statement calling on President Marcos Jr. to grant immediate clemency and freedom to Mary Jane Veloso on Wednesday, March 19.
Initiated by Filipino artists overseas, the sign-on statement declared solidarity with Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina migrant worker and trafficking survivor who was on death row in Indonesia for nearly 15 years. Veloso, who was transferred to the Philippines on December 18, 2023, is now on her third month in detention at the Correctional Institute for Women in Mandaluyong.
In the joint statement, cultural worker signatories asserted that Marcos Jr. is unbound in his capacity to grant Veloso
clemency.
“She is a victim, not a criminal. Her traffickers have already been convicted in the Philippines—yet she remains behind bars. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. must take urgent diplomatic action to secure her release,” wrote Filipino artists in their statement.
Initial signatories to the joint artists’ statement include SIKLAB Media, a USbased Filipino filmmaker collective.
In Canada, the National Pilipino Canadian Cultural Center and the Pancit Art Collective also signed to show support for Mary Jane Veloso and other Filipino trafficking victims. Other signatories include Likha Filipino Migrants Cultural Organization and Migranteng Artista ng Bayan, both from Hong Kong, as well as the Concerned Artists of the Philippines. The statement also urged Marcos Jr. to protect Filipino migrants from unjust imprisonment and the death penalty, and oppose laws that punish trafficking victims while letting powerful recruiters and traffickers walk free. A rtists released the joint statement close after the 30th death anniversary of Flor Contemplacion, a domestic worker whose execution in Singapore in 1995 sparked nationwide outrage at the Ramos government for failing to save her life. Initial signatories of the sign-on statement urged fellow Filipino artists and their groups to spread the call to free Veloso and use their art as a medium to advocate for justice.
Navigating economic realities: Reconciling ambitious targets with fiscal prudence
AS the Philippines grapples with the complexities of its economic environment, recent analysis from De La Salle University (DLSU) highlights a significant contradiction in the government’s bold fiscal objectives. The pursuit of a vigorous 6.06 percent growth rate to attain a reduced debt-to-GDP ratio is commendable in its aim, yet it draws concern as it seems increasingly unattainable given the current economic indicators. (Read the BusinessMirror story: Economic growth of 6% will remain elusive—report, March 17, 2025).
DLSU’s Philippine High Frequency Model sets a more tempered expectation, forecasting a 2025 growth rate of 5.8 percent, which sits below the government’s target range of 6 to 8 percent. This discrepancy underscores a fundamental question: Are we setting ourselves up for failure with unrealistic ambitions, or are we simply ignoring the underlying economic realities that dictate a more cautious approach?
The economy has shown a commendable expansion of 5.6 percent in 2024, yet the accompanying deficit-to-GDP ratio overshot the government’s projections, sitting at 5.7 percent instead of the targeted 5.6 percent. DLSU suggests that the mere reduction of this fiscal deficit should not be misconstrued as an indication of a well-managed economy. Unlike households or businesses, the government’s financial health operates under a distinctly different paradigm —one where deficits can sometimes serve as a reflection of broader economic behaviors rather than just fiscal mismanagement.
The crux of DLSU’s argument hinges on the distinction between public and private sector influences on the economy. It is suggested that a fiscal deficit may arise from a private sector that opts to delay savings or participates in net imports, rather than solely from excessive government spending. This viewpoint encourages a re-evaluation of our understanding of fiscal metrics. A mere focus on reducing deficits may obscure more pressing issues that deserve the government’s attention, particularly the dynamics of the private sector, which could lead to deeper economic crises if left unmonitored.
Indeed, prioritizing fiscal consolidation appears misguided if it leads to policies that stifle economic growth rather than encourage it. As we move forward in the wake of the pandemic and shifting economic conditions, it is essential for government spending to reflect the current and pressing needs of the economy. This includes promoting industries, investing in infrastructure, and directly addressing social disparities that can fuel growth from the grassroots.
The path to a robust economy lies not merely in aspiring to meet numerical targets but in a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of stagnation and creates sustainable development channels. The insights from the DLSU analysis are clear: a deep understanding of the complexities of our economy, particularly the relationship between fiscal policy and the well-being of the private sector, is crucial for developing effective growth strategies.
It is essential for policymakers to advocate for an economic narrative that embraces realism rather than mere aspiration. By grounding fiscal strategies in the current economic landscape while aiming for sustainable growth, the Philippines can forge a more resilient and prosperous future.
The focus should shift from an endless pursuit of higher growth numbers to creating an environment that promotes economic well-being alongside responsible financial management. Only in this way can we aspire to develop an economy that genuinely benefits our citizens and endures future challenges.
BusinessMirror
T. Anthony C. Cabangon
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D. Edgard A. Cabangon Benjamin V. Ramos Aldwin Maralit Tolosa Rolando M. Manangan
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The global economic collapse ‘E
John Mangun
OUTSIDE THE BOX
CONOMIC collapse” too dramatic? Depends on where you are standing. I have seen it all from quakes to crashes. During the 1990 Luzon earthquake, some 80 souls gone at the Hyatt Terraces Baguio Hotel. At my Makati office, the building trembled and the lights went out. Back in ’97, during the Asian financial meltdown, a Bangkok tuk-tuk driver fanned himself with a fistful of baht notes. “Yesterday rich, today kindling for the tao ang lo.”
This is the reality. We are headed into a global recession.
Some folks dream otherwise, but they are asleep. It will be a depression in some regions, primarily Europe. One country alone, even the massive US of A, does not dictate the global economic pace. There cannot be a US economic boom when the rest of the world is imploding. That is what matters. Here is another nightmare.
Those who are already looking back to the “Good Old Days” of Bidenomics under “Only-Old” Joe Biden never understood the economics. Maybe they were blinded by “Trump
Derangement Syndrome,” an “irrational or obsessive opposition to the man and his persona” and not often to his policies. Some feel the same way about Jim Carrey and Adam Sandler. Want the truth? Brace yourself.
The US GDP jumped 31 percent from January 2021 to January 2025— $6.6 trillion. But government debt soared 56 percent—$13 trillion. Two dollars of debt bought one dollar of growth, a deal only a politician could love. And it is not just the US. The Eurozone GDP rose 20 percent; EU debt climbed 29 percent. What about our dear friend China?
This is the reality. We are headed into a global recession. Some folks dream otherwise, but they are asleep. It will be a depression in some regions, primarily Europe. One country alone, even the massive US of A, does not dictate the global economic pace. There cannot be a US economic boom when the rest of the world is imploding.
That GDP is up 24 percent; central government debt is up 78 percent.
All the economic ships are underwater—no lifeboats left. It has all been smoke and mirrors, a post-pandemic recovery built on quicksand.
Here is the hard deal. The US and the world need a sharp economic downturn, a collapse if you prefer.
There are only two economic paths. Stay drunk on debt and die sooner. Or get debt-sober and wake up with the worst hangover of your life. Economic pain is coming, and Trump wants it because he understands that it is an essential need.
Trump has three main preliminary objectives necessary to his eventual pro-growth agenda.
Trump wanted a lower US dollar,
and he got the worst dollar exchange rate performance in the first 70 days of any of the past 30 years. Overall, the DXY Dollar Index is off around 4.3 percent Year-To-Date and more than 5.5 percent from the 2025 high. He wanted a lower crude oil price and Brent oil is down about 6 percent YTD and down about 14 percent from the January intraday high. March 05, 2025: “Oil hotshot Pierre Andurand’s 2024 gains vanished in two months, his fund now down thirty-seven percent and counting.” Trump wants – no, he desperately needs—lower interest rates, and this is where folks misunderstand his policies. He knows that slashing the US budget deficit and taming the unsustainable deadly debt beast can come only through lower interest rates. Lower rates will not be realized without economic pain, maybe extreme pain. The US 10-Year bond is paying about 4.3 percent. This is still way above last September’s 3.6 percent. The Fed has refused to lower interest rates because of their absolute terror of inflation, which had been rising until now. After four months of increasing inflation—September’s 2.4 percent to December’s 3 percent
See “Mangun” A11
Families of hostages in Gaza are terrified they won’t return after Israel resumes fighting
By Sam Mednick | The Associated Press
TEL AVIV, Israel—When a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began two months ago, Herut Nimrodi knew it would take time before her son was released from captivity in Gaza. The 20-year-old soldier was meant to be part of the second phase of the deal winding down the war.
But with Israel’s surprise bombardment of Gaza, she fears he might not come home at all.
“I really wanted to believe that there is still a chance to reach a second stage without renewing this war. But it feels like my building of hope has collapsed, and I have no idea what to do next,” Nimrodi said Tuesday.
Nearly 60 families have relatives still held in Gaza. About two dozen hostages are believed to be alive.
During the ceasefire’s first phase, which began in January, Hamas released 25 Israeli hostages and the bodies of eight others in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. But since that phase ended early this month, the sides have not been able to agree on a way forward. Israel’s renewed airstrikes threaten to end the fragile deal.
Nimrodi’s son, Tamir, was abducted from his army base when Hamas stormed into Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people and taking
more than 250 hostage. She’s had no sign of life. He hasn’t been declared dead by Israel.
“It’s so sad that this is the only solution that they could find,” she said, lamenting the government’s decision.
The strikes early Tuesday killed more than 400 people and shattered a relative calm—along with hopes of ending the war that has killed over 48,000 Palestinians.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he ordered the airstrikes because of lack of progress in talks to extend the ceasefire. Officials called the operation openended.
The return to fighting could deepen the painful debate in Israel over the fate of the remaining hostages.
Netanyahu and his hardline governing partners believe renewing the war will put pressure on Hamas to free them and move Israel closer to its goal of destroying Hamas’ military and governing capabilities.
But most hostage families, and large parts of the Israeli public, believe such goals are unrealistic. They say time is running out, particularly after the recent releases of emaciated-looking hostages who later described harsh conditions in captivity.
Hamas accused Netanyahu of upending the ceasefire and exposing the hostages “to an unknown fate.”
Families of hostages called on supporters to protest with them outside Israel’s parliament Tuesday.
Some families who already know their relatives in Gaza are dead called the government’s decision unacceptable.
“This is not only a disaster in every way, shape or form on how the hostages keep suffering, being chained to walls, starved, abused, but also the death toll that keeps rising on the Gazan side,” Udi Goren said.
His cousin Tal Haimi was killed on Oct. 7 and his body was taken into Gaza. Goren said the international community must pressure Hamas, Israel and the mediators— the United States, Egypt and Qatar —to end the war.
“Returning to fighting? Did you listen to a word of what we, the returnees released in the last deal, have been saying to you?” former hostage Omer Wenkert wrote on Instagram. Romi Gonen, among the first hos-
tages to be freed in the ceasefire’s first phase, said she would never forget what it felt like in captivity to hear the bombs after previous ceasefire talks collapsed and realize she wouldn’t be freed any time soon.
“I beg you, the people of Israel, we must continue to fight for them,” she said on Instagram.
Sylvia Cunio, whose two sons are held hostage, accused Israel’s leaders of not having a heart.
“It isn’t right to continue the fighting. I want my children back home already. If he wants to kill me, the prime minister, let him do that already because I won’t get through this,” she said on local radio.
Nimrodi said she’s worried the airstrikes might not only harm her son and the other hostages but also make their living conditions worse.
The last time she saw Tamir, he was a funny teenager who rode horses and loved learning about geology and astronomy, she said. The two had a similar humor and used to talk about everything.
While she’s terrified of what’s to come, she said she won’t stop fighting to see him again.
“Please, keep strong, survive,” she said, addressing him. “So, there’s a chance for us to meet once more.” Associated Press writer Natalie Melzer in Nahariya, Israel contributed.
Celebrating resilience: A commitment to peace in the Bangsamoro region
(Message from Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. on the 57th Anniversary of the Moro National Liberation Front)
ASSALAMUALAIKUM Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh!
(Peace be upon you and God’s mercy and blessings).
On this significant occasion commemorating the founding anniversary of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), we pause to honor the enduring legacy of resilience and unwavering dedication that has shaped the trajectory of peace in the Bangsamoro region.
Today, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., the Philippine government solemnly reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the full and faithful implementation of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement. This landmark agreement remains the cornerstone of our collective pursuit of lasting peace and inclusive development in partnership with the MNLF.
Our collaborative efforts, exemplified by the ongoing transformation of the MNLF members, are designed to empower former combatants and their communities, ensuring their meaningful integration into the socio-economic fabric of the nation. We are dedicated to creating a future where every MNLF member can live a life of dignity, security, and prosperity.
As we are preparing for the first parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Re -
gion in Muslim Mindanao, we once again call on our brothers and sisters in the MNLF, to work with us in ensuring a free, fair, and credible electoral process, fostering an environment conducive to continued stability and progress. These elections represent a pivotal step in strengthening democratic governance and solidifying the gains of the peace process.
As we celebrate the rich history and enduring aspirations of the Bangsamoro people, let us draw strength from our shared journey toward peace. United in purpose, we shall forge ahead with unwavering courage and conviction, guided by the principles of justice, inclusivity, and mutual respect. Together, we shall build a brighter future for the Bangsamoro region and the entire nation.
Mabuhay ang kapayapaan! (Long live peace!).
Japan’s exports rise at faster clip before Trump tariffs hit
By Yoshiaki Nohara
JAPAN’Sexports rose at a faster pace as businesses increased orders ahead of the rollout of higher tariffs in the US.
Exports measured by value gained 11.4 percent in February from a year earlier, the Ministry of Finance reported Wednesday. Exports slightly missed the median estimate of a 12.6 percent increase. Imports fell 0.7 percent, compared with the median estimate of a 0.8 percent gain.
Japan’s trade balance switched back into the black, with a surplus of ¥584.5 billion ($3.9 billion).
Trade helped Japan’s economy grow in the last quarter of 2024 as net exports rose, and shipments abroad have advanced in the first two months of this year. Part of that bump reflected efforts to frontload exports to get ahead of new tariffs in the US.
“I think that some of the growth in exports may be due to a rush of orders before the Trump tariffs came,” said Yuichi Kodama, economist at Meiji Yasuda Research Institute. “But it’s not clear to what extent this was the case. It’s worth noting that exports to the US fell in terms of volume.”
By region, shipments to the US rose 10.5 percent by value and slipped by 3.3% in terms of volume. Those to China increased 14.1 percent, likely boosted by the Lunar New Year effect, while exports to Europe fell 7.7 percent.
Global trade flows now face potential major disruptions as US President Donald Trump continues to escalate his tariff campaign, targeting nations including Canada and Mexico, where Japanese carmakers have major manufacturing bases. The renewed trade war between Washington and Beijing also risks having a ripple effect on Japan, which counts on the two nations as its biggest trading partners.
The OECD Monday cut its world growth forecast to 3.1 percent for 2025 to account for turbulence weighing on global commerce.
“I don’t think overseas demand is that strong,” Kodama said. “Exports are growing in value terms mainly due to the impact of exchange rates, but growth in volume is slow, so it
Unredacted JFK assassination files released, sending history buffs hunting for new clues
By Jamie Stengle | The Associated Press
DALLAS—Unredacted documents related to the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy were released Tuesday following an order by President Donald Trump shortly after he took office.
More than 1,100 files consisting of over 31,000 pages were posted on the US National Archives and Records Administration’s website in the evening. The vast majority of the National Archives’ collection of over 6 million pages of records, photographs, motion pictures, sound recordings and artifacts related to the assassination have previously been released.
Larry J. Sabato, director of the University of Virginia Center for Politics and author of “The Kennedy Half-Century,” said he had a team that started going through the documents but it may be some time before their full significance becomes clear.
“We have a lot of work to do for a long time to come, and people just have to accept that,” he said.
Trump announced the release Monday while visiting the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, saying his administration would be releasing about 80,000 pages.
“We have a tremendous amount of paper. You’ve got a lot of reading,” Trump said.
Researchers had estimated that the number of files still released either in whole or in part was around 3,000 to 3,500. And last month the FBI said it had discovered about 2,400 new records related to the assassination.
Jefferson Morley, vice president of the Mary Ferrell Foundation, a repository for files related to the assassination, said in a statement posted on the social platform X that the release is “an encouraging start.” Complete versions of about a third of the redacted documents held by the National Archives have now been made public, he said, an estimate of over 1,100 of about 3,500 documents.
“Rampant overclassification of trivial information has been eliminated and there appear to be no redactions, though we have not viewed every document,” Morely said.
The National Archives said on its website that in accordance with the president’s directive, the release would encompass “all records previously withheld for classification.”
But Morley said what was released Tuesday did not include two-thirds of the promised files or any of the recently discovered FBI files.
Interest in details related to Kennedy’s assassination has been intense over the decades, with countless conspiracy theories spawned. He was killed Nov. 22, 1963, on a visit to Dallas, when his motorcade was finishing its parade route downtown and shots rang out from the Texas School Book Depository building. Police arrested 24-year-old Lee Harvey Oswald, who had positioned himself from a sniper’s perch on the
Jefferson Morley, vice president of the Mary Ferrell Foundation, a repository for files related to the assassination, said in a statement posted on the social platform X that the release is “an encouraging start.” Complete versions of about a third of the redacted documents held by the National Archives have now been made public, he said, an estimate of over 1,100 of about 3,500 documents.
sixth floor. Two days later nightclub owner Jack Ruby fatally shot Oswald during a jail transfer.
A year after the assassination, the Warren Commission, which President Lyndon B. Johnson established to investigate, concluded that Oswald acted alone and that there was no evidence of a conspiracy. But that didn’t quell a web of alternative theories over the decades.
Oswald was a former Marine who defected to the Soviet Union before returning home to Texas.
Files in the new release included a memo from the CIA’s St. Petersburg station from November 1991 saying that earlier that month, a CIA official befriended a US professor there who told the official about a friend who worked for the KGB. The memo said the KGB official had reviewed “five thick volumes” of files on Oswald and was “confident that Oswald was at no time an agent controlled by the KGB.”
The memo added that as Oswald was described in the files, the KGB official doubted “that anyone could control Oswald, but noted that the KGB watched him closely and con-
Tariff threats spur TSMC’s Taiwan peers to seek US expansion
Iremains to be seen whether this strength will continue.”
The yen averaged 154.61 per dollar in February, 4.3 percent weaker than a year earlier, the Finance Ministry said.
Japan has so far failed to get an exemption from direct levies from the Trump administration, despite a seemingly positive meeting between the two nations’ leaders in February. Trade Minister Yoji Muto’s pleas to senior officials in Washington this month apparently went unheeded.
Fresh tariffs on steel and aluminum started hitting the Asian nation last week, and its manufacturers face the prospect of reciprocal tariffs on a variety of sectors plus a 25 percent auto levy set to start in early April. To lower the impact from any tariffs imposed by Trump, Japanese companies are already stockpiling goods in the US, according to a survey by Bloomberg News.
Cars, semiconductor manufacturing equipment and chips led the advance in exports in February, while declining imports of crude oil and coal were among components weighing on imports.
Japan’s trade surplus with America was ¥918.8 billion in February, up 29 percent versus a year earlier. Auto shipments to the US rose almost 14 percent. Trump has long criticized the US trade deficit with Japan, and the president recently accused Japan and China of gaining an unfair advantage through foreign exchange policy, which Japan has denied.
The US has also historically criticized the road safety standards in Japan as a non-tariff barrier that restricts US automakers’ exports to Japan. Bloomberg
By Jane Lanhee Lee & Debby Wu
N March, President Donald Trump and Taiwan Semiconductor
Manufacturing Co.’s C. C. Wei walked into the Roosevelt Room to unveil one of the largest foreign investments in US history: a $100 billion bet that high-end chips can be made, once again, in the US. For Trump, it was a moment to savor on the 43rd day back in office. For Richard Lee, watching almost 8,000 miles away, it was a call to action.
“We didn’t put the United States as the first priority. Now we need to put United States as the first and foremost priority,” said Lee, chairman of the trade association that represents Taiwan’s biggest manufacturing players.
Taiwan companies, master craftsmen of the world’s electronics, have sprung to the vanguard of shifting manufacturing to the US. While that migration began with sanctions and export controls that Washington erected in recent years, it’s accelerated as the current president threatens more tariffs and trade barriers.
In addition to TSMC, Foxconn Technology Group is working with Apple Inc. to add an AI server assembly site in Texas. The Taiwanese company, maker of Apple Inc.’s iPhones and Nvidia Corp.’s AI servers, is also planning to expand production in several US states in collaboration with its customers. Foxconn has talked with US officials about additional investments in Pennsylvania and Texas, according to a person familiar with the matter.
Smaller Taiwanese companies are following suit. Server maker Wiwynn Corp. approved a $300 million increase in capital for its US operation last month to expand in Texas.
Mangun .
.
. continued from A10
—January came in at 2.8 percent. Trump is using chaos, tariffs and tantrums, his favorite tools, to advance his policy goals. US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent made it perfectly clear. “Look, there is go -
Quanta Computer Inc. has allocated $230 million to build more AI servers in the US and just signed a factory lease in Nashville. Compal Electronics Inc. is one of the bidders for server factories in the US that could cost over $3 billion and would add 1,500 US workers to its staff.
“I don’t think there are any excuses for not being more aggressive with investments in the United States,” said Lee, who heads the Taiwan Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association or TEEMA.
Trump’s policies are controversial. Stocks and consumer sentiment have tumbled amid uncertainty over the impact of tariffs and other measures, yet tech players are beginning to step up. Companies from Apple to Meta Platforms Inc. and SoftBank Group Corp. have pledged more than $1 trillion in major investments since Trump took office for a second time.
It’s not an easy road. TSMC clashed with unions over construction of a semiconductor plant in Arizona, and has been hit by a lawsuit for allegedly discriminating against American workers.
Mark Lee, chairman of a Taiwanese company called Sysgration Ltd., has confronted a range of challenges as he works on the company’s first
factory in the US. Labor costs are high and red tape is thick, he says, but he decided to make the move to accommodate an important customer—and the US government.
“America knows how to do sales and marketing, but they don’t know how to do manufacturing,” said Lee—who is not related to the TEEMA chairman.
Sysgration, which makes components for automotive electronics and energy management, looked at several options for building capacity in North America to boost cooperation with an automotive client. Mexico, where Hon Hai is building its biggest AI server assembly plant, was ruled out because Lee’s managers were concerned about crime. Instead, the company set its sights on Plano, Texas. Though they found an attractive facility, it took 12 months to sort out sewage system approvals, delaying renovations and the installation of equipment. “In Taiwan, China or Southeast Asia, it would have taken two months tops,” Lee said.
To cope with the higher labor expense, he turned to robots.
Sysgration spent $30 million on four automated production lines, which each need only four workers rather than 20 or 30. That brought down the cost to about twice what it would have been in Mexico, he said.
Texas officials are trying to help mitigate such expenses. Jenny Zeilfelder took on responsibility for luring international businesses to Plano in 2023 and makes sure they know about the city’s support offerings, including incentives from cash grants
stantly while he was in the USSR.” It also noted that the file reflected that Oswald was a poor shot when he tried target firing in the Soviet Union.
In the early 1990s, the federal government mandated that all assassination-related documents be housed in a single collection in the National Archives and Records Administration. The collection was required to be opened by 2017, barring any exemptions designated by the president. Around 500 documents, including tax returns, were not subject to the 2017 disclosure requirement.
Trump, who took office for his first term in 2017, had said that he would allow the release of all of the remaining records but ended up holding some back because of what he called the potential harm to national security. And while files continued to be released during President Joe Biden’s administration, some remained unseen. Sabato said that his team has a “long, long list” of sensitive documents it is looking for that previously had large redactions.
“There must be something really, really sensitive for them to redact a paragraph or a page or multiple pages in a document like that,” he said.
“Some of it’s about Cuba, some of it’s about what the CIA did or didn’t do relevant to Lee Harvey Oswald.”
Some of the previously released documents have offered details on the way intelligence services operated at the time, including CIA cables and memos discussing visits by Oswald to the Soviet and Cuban embassies during a trip to Mexico City just weeks before the assassination. Associated Press writer John Hanna contributed from Topeka, Kansas.
to rebates on property taxes. It even dangled a director of special projects who offers “concierge services” for high-profile ventures. Sysgration said it will get back 10 percent of every dollar invested from Plano.
“Not only can he meet with the companies once a week to keep a beat on the pulse on what they’re doing, but he’s also there to assist them with expediting permitting and figuring things out,” she said.
Sysgration’s Lee sees the progress in Texas. His first factory will be up and running later this year and he’s planning a second investment there. Delta Electronics Inc, another Taiwanese player, is expanding in Plano too. The world’s biggest maker of power supply systems will build a 1.5 million-square-foot factory, the city’s biggest manufacturing investment, according to Zeilfelder. The rush of US investments is creating some jitters in Taiwan. The island is proud of its critical position in the tech supply chain and wary of losing out if too many factories shift abroad. Taiwan’s ability to produce the world’s most advanced semiconductors is also seen as protection if China ever attempts to take control of the island.
After TSMC’s announcement of its $100 billion deal with Trump, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te held an ad-hoc press conference with TSMC chief Wei to soothe any fears about the deal.
“This step by TSMC is necessary for development in the future,” said the president. “The government, in the process of TSMC’s US investment, hasn’t received any pressure from the US.” Bloomberg
ing to be a natural adjustment as we move away from public spending to private spending. The market and the economy have become hooked, become addicted, to excessive government spending and there’s going to be a detox period.” The question is how deep the economic contraction and asset decline —stocks and housing prices—will go before Trump’s policies start to deliver. My gloom-and-doom assessment. First quarter Q1 GDP might contract 2.4 percent, with the first half flat at best. The S&P 500 could fall another 6-11 percent from now. When will we see “Positive Policy Traction”? Tariffs and government spending cuts will drag into Q3 2025. Tax cuts and deregulation might lift growth by early 2026, with a full rebound (2-2.5 percent GDP, stock price recovery) by late 2026-early 2027. That is if Trump’s chaos does not derail the entire train. And finally, of course, T.G.Y.F. E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities
Thursday, March 20, 2025 NEDA OKAYS LOCAL PROJECTS TO BOOST REGIONAL GROWTH
Amid global volatility, local noise, PHL still ‘safe haven’
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
AMIDglobal volatility and local political instability concerns, the Philippines stands out as one of the “best safe havens” for investors, according to the Finance chief.
In an investment forum on Wednesday, Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said investing in the Philippines is the “smartest decision” an investor can make right now.
“We are one of the fastestgrowing economies in the AsiaPacific—not just when times are good, but even in the face of tough global challenges such as trade wars and high inflation and high interest rates,” Recto said.
Zooming in on the Philippines, Recto said in a separate interview that the recent arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte is also unlikely to de -
stabilize the country’s political landscape.
“We don’t see that happening. Zero,” Recto said, adding the arrest has nothing to do with the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals.
Although investors reacted on the day Duterte was arrested—with the stock market down—the peso still appreciated on the day that Duterte was arrested, he added. “It could also mean that the international community is looking at how important the rule of law is to us and it’s a part of governance as well,” Recto said.
Business owners insist Boracay safe despite Slovak tourist’s rape-slay
By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Special to the BusinessMirror
BUSINESS owners in Boracay underscored the safety of their island despite the recent rape-slay of a Slovak tourist.
In a statement sent to the BusinessMirror, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Boracay (PCCI-Boracay) sought to reassure foreign and local tourists alike, saying the island has “an extremely low crime rate despite the high number of visitors, thanks to the continuous efforts of our government and police agencies. We are grateful for their commitment to maintaining safety and order. While any crime is concerning, the swift response to this incident reinforces the dedication to keeping Boracay a secure and welcoming destination.”
The Slovak tourist, Michaela Mickova, had been reported missing since March 10, and was found naked and decomposing in an abandoned Chapel in Barangay Balabag. She arrived on the island on March 1 to attend the wedding of a friend, according to published reports quoting regional police.
“We strongly condemn this tragic and senseless crime. Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones, and we urge authorities to ensure swift justice. We appreciate the speed and purpose with which authorities responded to this case,” said PCCIBoracay.
DOT: An isolated incident
THE group, composed mostly of business owners on the island, also advised visitors “to stay in welllit, populated areas, use reputable transport services, and remain aware of their surroundings. The local business community remains committed to working with authorities to uphold the safety of both residents and guests.”
As this developed, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has asked the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for help in securing the safety of tourists in the country. “We have requested the DILG’s implementation of im-
mediate and concrete measures to enhance security in key tourist destinations and prevent similar incidents in the future,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco in a news statement.
She stressed that what happened in Boracay was an “isolated incident,” adding that DOT reached out to the DILG “to ensure that those responsible are swiftly captured and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Such despicable actions are intolerable and have no place in our country.”
Over the years, there have been several reports of tourists, who have died in well-known tourist destinations due to robbery, homicide, accidents, the lack of emergency training and equipment of resorts, as well as the absence of nearby hospitals.
Sandy’s Bill
A SIGNIFICANT number of tourist victims have been children, which has encouraged Senator Risa Hontiveros to file Senate Bill No. 2971 or the Child Tourist Safety Act. Also known as “Sandy’s Bill”, the lawmaker crafted the bill in honor of Sandy Garrovillas, who died at a Palawan resort in 2023, from anaphylactic shock after a jellyfish wrapped itself on her neck and arms. (See, “The beach beckons: But so does death, for kids,” in the BusinessMirror, March 8, 2025.)
Meanwhile, in early March, a South Korean man was fatally shot in Malate during a robbery. The Korea Times, citing data from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reported that 38 Koreans were killed in the Philippines from 2015 to the first half of 2024. South Koreans have long topped the visitor arrivals in the Philippines, accounting for some 26 percent of visiting foreign tourists. Last year, 1.6 million South Korean tourists arrived in the Philippines. In February, two Russian tourists died after being swept away by strong undercurrents while scuba diving in Verde Island, a popular diving destination in Batangas
As such, the Finance chief pitched to global investors that the Philippines is the “right place” and Filipinos are the “right partners.”
“The Philippines is at its most promising economic momentum, backed by its on-track fiscal consolidation and gamechanging investment reforms that are finally in place,” Recto said.
Recto does not see the country’s deficit expanding as it follows its fiscal framework plan to bring down the deficit to 5.2 percent this year.
Meanwhile, the passage of the Create More Act, which provides tax incentives to investors, makes the Philippines “Trump 2.0 ready.”
“Create More signals to the world that the Philippines means business. We are ready to compete. We are a dependable economic ally. And we offer stability amid uncertainty,” the Finance chief said. Investors will be given four to seven years of income tax holiday depending on the type of investment and location, as
well as extending the Special Corporate Income Tax and Enhanced Deductions Regime to a period of up to 10 or 20 years.
An additional 100-percent deduction on power expenses and an additional 50-percent reinvestment allowance will also be applied to those in the manufacturing and tourism sectors
Export-oriented enterprises’ local purchases are zero-rated while importations are valueadded tax-exempt to address investors’ pain points.
Further, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is streamlining the registration of Master Securities Lending Agreements to make processes easier for participants of the Philippine Stock Exchange securities borrowing and lending program.
The DOF and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) are also working on the inclusion of peso-denominated government bonds into JP Morgan’s Bond Index to boost foreign investor participation in local securities.
REGIONAL projects for infrastructure and community development obtained approval from the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) Board on Wednesday.
NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, who serves as the Board’s Vice Chair, said the projects reflect the government’s goal to “support regional growth.”
“By prioritizing regional growth, we are not only enhancing infrastructure but also creating sustainable economic opportunities throughout the country. These initiatives reflect our vision of a nation where every region thrives and plays a significant role in driving national progress,” he said during its 25th meeting.
Among the approved projects is the Panahon ng Pagkilos: Philippine Community Resilience Project (PCRP) by the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The program, supported by the World Bank, plans to benefit 4.13 million households across 500 municipalities.
The P56.7-billion initiative aims to strengthen community capacities for resilience planning and provide investments for projects in vulnerable areas. It follows the DSWD’s KALAHICIDSS program, which focused
on community-driven development.
The Board also gave the green light to the P13.9-billion Tumauini River Multipurpose Project by the National Irrigation Administration in Isabela.
“The project is designed to irrigate about 8,200 hectares across 26 barangays in Tumauini, three barangays in Cabagan, and three barangays in the City of Ilagan,” it said. Slated to run from September 2025 to September 2030, the project is expected to boost productivity and increase the income of 5,860 farmers, contributing to the government’s rice production and food security goals, Neda said. Additionally, the Board approved changes in scope, cost, and timeline for the Balog-Balog Multipurpose Project Phase II. The construction of a 105.5-meter-high dam and reservoir in the Zambales mountains aims to irrigate 21,935 hectares of new service areas and stabilize irrigation for 12,475 hectares under the first phase.
“This is expected to improve farm household income, contribute to the country’s food security, and promote the use of renewable energy resources for a cleaner environment in the
THE Philippines’ s exit from the dirty money “grey list” sparked investor interest in the country’s online gaming and special class business process outsourcing (SCBPO) sectors, according to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s (Pagcor) top official. In a gaming summit on Tuesday, Pagcor Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Alejandro H. Tengco said inquiries on acquiring online gaming licenses “all of a sudden went up” following the country’s delisting.
“We were getting calls day in and day out, inquiring whether they could apply for a license or asking that we give them copies of the structured guidelines of the PACOR’s online gaming structure,” Tengco said.
The number of applicants for SCBPO licenses also “surged overnight” after the country’s delisting.
“When we were stricken out of the gray list, a lot of interest in the gaming industry in the Philippines has been up,” Tengco said. The government’s ban on the
Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (Pogos) in the country played a “crucial role” in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) delisting, according to Tengco.
“We had demonstrated that we are firm and committed to fight money laundering and ensure the integrity of our financial system,” the Pagcor chief said.
“The ban was both a challenge and an opportunity for Pagcor as we steered the orderly cessation of Pogo operations while mitigating potential economic impacts,” he added.
Despite the Pogo ban, Tengco said the Philippine gaming industry “continued its outstanding performance,” posting P410
lion in gross
revenues. This is still a 25-percent increase despite the ban on
by year-end, as compared to the P329
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
PHL regulators tweak public float rule for large offerings
By VG Cabuag @villygc
THE Philippine Stock Exchange Inc. (PSE), the operator of the country’s capital market, has allowed companies that will raise a large amount of funds, such as GCash, to offer less than the required minimum public float of 20 percent.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved the proposal. It is now in effect for at least two years and can be extended by another two years depending on market climate, PSE President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon said.
“We have been able to get an approval from the SEC where companies that want to offer P5 billion or more, can actually offer less than 20 percent,” Monzon said at the sidelines of InvestPH 2025 conference of the PSE.
He added that under the exemption, large companies can offer 15 percent with a commitment that they will do a follow-on offering or a private placement in the next two or three years to comply with the 20
percent requirement.
Globe Fintech Innovations Inc., or Mynt, which owns e-wallet giant GCash, sought an exemption from the minimum public ownership rule as the stock market is currently grappling with liquidity problems and may not be able to absorb its initial public offering if it would be required to offer 20 percent of their outstanding shares. Mynt is seeking a valuation of $8 billion when it goes public, possibly by yearend. This would translate to $1.6 billion for a 20-percent IPO.
“GCash, is a different animal because, for them, it’s not a question of having a difficult time offering the 20 percent. They’re saying it’s too big for the market to absorb. So
if they’re going to get an exemptive relief for a lower public float, I don’t think there will be a requirement to do a follow-on,” Monzon said.
He said the PSE should also have to address the Philippine Stock Exchange index issue “because you cannot be in the index if you’re below 20 percent.”
Monzon said the exemption from the 20-percent minimum public float requirement will only be for the “transition period” while liquidity problems persist.
However, he did not say how long this transition period will be.
He said the PSE listens to concerns of its stakeholders and holds regular dialogues with the SEC.
“We have what we call a PSE lane which I (discussed with) SEC a few months back. Basically, I told the SEC, with the liquidity problems we’re having in the market now, companies are having a hard time deciding on an IPO because of their inability or fear that they cannot meet the 20 percent public float.”
A stockbroker said when the PSE increased the minimum public float to 20 percent, “everybody was up in arms at the time and they stood their ground because that’s the best practice in the region.”
“That’s the best practice, a global
Ajinomoto mulls over PHL expansion
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
AJINOMOTO Philippines
Corp. (APC) said it is con -
sidering the construction of another plant in the Philippines, as its two factories in Bulacan and Cebu are operating at almost full capacity.
“We need to consider (the additional plant). Because we have two factories here in the Philippines, in Bulacan and Cebu, but they are nearing full capacity. So, we need to think about our future strategy. But we have not decided yet,” APC President Koichi Ozaki told reporters in an interview on Monday.
Ozaki said, however, that it intends to come up with a firm decision on the additional plant in three to five years.
He said the Bulacan and Cebu factories were built in 1991 and 2004, respectively.
“As of now we have 900 employ -
ees and 1,100 contractual workers we have. So, the total of people working in Ajinomoto Philippines is around 2,000.”
Ozaki said most of the Ajinomoto products being sold in the Philippines, or around 90 percent, are also manufactured in the country.
He noted that Ajinomoto is keen on producing frozen food products, which are currently being imported from Thailand, if it will pursue an expansion.
“Frozen food just started here. Just started means business is small. So now we are importing
from Thailand. We have a frozen food factory in Thailand. But of course if business will become bigger, we want to produce here in the Philippines.”
Ozaki said Ajinomoto is already selling frozen packs of Japanese gyoza and chicken karaage in the Philippines.
He said APC’s seasoning products, such as ginisa (stir-fry) mix and Crispy Fry brand of breading mix as “the main (drivers) of our business.”
He added that the company food ingredients and frozen food businesses are already contributing its bottomline. It is also selling instant soup and instant noodles.
Ozaki said the Philippines is one of the big markets of Ajinomoto in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations region. However, Thailand is the top consumer of Ajinomoto food products (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/03/18/ajinomoto-totaste-savory-sales-in-2025/).
Thai firm keen on investing $18M in Mindanao
THE biggest coconut processing firm in Thailand is investing $18 million in a 4-hectare (ha) coconut milk processing plant in Mindanao, according to the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza).
Peza said the company is targeting to eventually export 100 percent of the products that the plant will churn out.
While he did not disclose the name of the Thai firm, Peza Director General Tereso O. Panga said it is the “biggest coconut processing company in Thailand” and is a new entrant in the Philippines. Peza said this coconut milk processing plant is expected to rise within the Phividec Industrial Estate-Special Economic Zone in Misamis Oriental, Mindanao.
In an e-mail sent to reporters, the investment promotion agency said the plant “will primarily fo -
PLDT unit ties up with Nokia for data center
cus on the production of canned coconut milk and canned coconut water, along with other related coconut-based products.”
“Initially, they will be investing $18 million for its production line with high-tech equipment.”
According to Peza, the plant is an “export-oriented enterprise,” with at least 70 percent of its products destined for international markets.
However, it noted that the company plans to eventually ramp up its outward shipments to 100 percent.
As to when it will start operations, the agency said it is currently awaiting feedback from the company as to its timeframe.
Peza said the investment commitment of the firm was made during a recent exhibit which gathered industry leaders including Thai agro manufacturers, who are seeking to advance global
partnerships in agriculture and trade logistics and enhance agricultural supply chains by facilitating trade across regions.
The agency had announced in a social media post that the Thai firm is planning to put up a factory in the country.
To further strengthen ties, the Thai firm also organized a tour at its 10-hectare porocessing plant in the Samutsakhon Industrial Zone for Peza Economic Development Manager Ludwig Daza.
This facility, Peza added, employs 3,000 workers and “serves as a model for their planned expansion in the Philippines.”
To date, PEZA said it manages 4 agro-industrial ecozones hosting 21 locators. These locators and developers contribute over P12 billion in investments, generating $1.9 million in exports, dedicated to facilitating global agribusiness growth. Andrea E. San Juan
practice. And even 20 (percent) is very low in the region. Japan turned around because they now forced companies to float more because they would now have no control of the company. They would now be answerable to the shareholders. Not like, I own 80 (percent) so you wanna fight me? You can’t fight me, I have 80 (percent).”
Globe’s Cu said the current minimum float of 20 percent is “too high” and that 10 percent to 15 percent would be “ideal.”
This would value the IPO at $800 million to $1.2 billion, just slightly below the $1.3-billion public offering of Monde Nissin Corp., considered the biggest IPO in the country.
“Even at the low point of this range, an $800-million offering could be the country’s biggest ever,” Abacus Securities Corp. said in its research note.
“In our view, the listing is likely to push through even if conditions are not ideal. Investors are hungry for quality IPOs... Also, waiting too long would risk turning Mynt’s investment thesis stale. Bottom line, Mynt will have to list soon if management wants to extract the best value.”
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
VITRO Inc., the data center arm of PLDT Inc., has joined forces with Nokia to “advance AI-driven data center solutions” in the Philippines.
Through a memorandum of understanding, Vitro will integrate Nokia’s “cutting-edge network technologies” into Vitro’s data center infrastructure, aiming to enhance security, scalability, and efficiency for AI workloads.
Under the partnership, Vitro and Nokia will collaborate on developing solutions tailored for Generative AI (GenAI) training and inference, while also exploring innovative technology solutions and commercial models to set Vitro apart in the market.
The initiative also includes multiple Proof-of-Concept (PoC) trials, one of which focuses on QuantumSafe Networking (QSN), a next-generation security measure designed to safeguard Vitro’s Data Center Interconnect (DCI) infrastructure from emerging quantum-based cyber threats.
The collaboration also aims to enhance Vitro’s DCI architecture through Nokia’s advanced networking solutions, including Data Center Fabric with Event-Driven Automation (EDA), Data Center Gateway Routers with AnySec, AISupported Operations (AI-Ops), and Quantum-Safe IP/Optical Transport solutions. These upgrades aim to create a more “scalable, automated, and secure environment” optimized for AI, cloud, and mission-critical applications.
“Nokia is committed to supporting the digital transformation of enterprises in the Philippines, and we believe that our partnership with Vitro will play a significant role in achieving this goal,” said Xulei Sang, SVP and Head of Network Infrastructure for Nokia APAC.
“We are excited to collaborate with Nokia to drive AI adoption in the Philippines,” Vitro President and CEO Victor S. Genuino said. “This partnership reinforces our commitment to delivering secure, innovative data center solutions that empower businesses in the AI era.”
Why
‘Banking on the
Future?’
in the BusinessMirror titled “Banking On the Future,” a BM collaboration with the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP).
THE BMAP is an organization of banking institutions that celebrated its 50th year in 2024 with the theme “Tradition to Transformation.” Now on its 51st year, BMAP continues to transform as a more relevant organization.
The banking industry has evolved from piggy banks to e-wallets, passbooks to mobile phones, physical to online transactions, and more. The BMAP has to evolve and look into the future.
As a conduit of information for the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the BMAP’s role is communicating innovation, growth, digital transformation, financial inclusion, consumer protection and sustainable banking. With the growing population getting younger, “Banking on the Future” is apt as this also refers to modern ways of banking and, most of all, “banking on” and looking forward to help shape a better financial environment for Filipinos through information.
The BMAP’s Mission is to upskill and provide bank marketing professionals with the latest trends and best practices responsive to evolving customer needs while providing strong regulatory linkage to promote financial literacy and consumer protection. It also aims to recognize outstanding brand and marketing campaigns and projects of financial institutions through the biennial BMAP Bank Marketing Awards program.
The BMAP also launched the Bank Marketing Academy with the Asian Institute of Management to offer Bank Marketing Professional programs.
BSP Collaboration
BSP Governor Eli M. Remolana Jr. administered the Oath of Office for the 2025 Board of Trustees and Officers of the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines on March 6, at the BSP headquarters in Manila. Prior to the induction,
the Governor talked with the new BMAP Board and discussed future collaboration with projects and communications from the BSP.
The new BMAP Board met with BSP Director and Corporate Affairs Office Head Jay Edward D. Amatong and BSP Communication Office OIC-Director Michelle Evaresta V. Remo to review the performance and areas of improvement of the 2024 projects conducted, and further discuss plans and initiatives for 2025. Among the collaboration projects are learning sessions, information campaigns, and continuing the “COINversations” project.
Comprising the Officers of the 2025 BMAP Board are: Eric H. Montelibano (Citystate Savings Bank), president; Catherine Rowena “Peewee” B. Villanueva (Land Bank of the Philippines), vice president; Judith C. Songlingco (Philippine Business Bank), secretary; Janette Y. Abad Santos (BPI Direct BanKo Inc.), treasurer; and, Emmanuel Mari K. Valdes (Rizal Commercial Banking Corp.), auditor.
The 2025 Trustees include the following: Mai Gacilo Sangalang (Standard Chartered Bank) as Director for Industry Relations, Banking Code, and Financial Inclusion; Chairell Winston C. Almendras (Bank of the Philippine Islands) as Director for Programs; Aileen Vallesteros (China Banking Corp.) as Director for Membership; Miguel Angelo “Mike” C. Villa-Real (Philippine Veterans Bank) as Director for Publicity and Digital Marketing; Hazel Marie L. Ludovice (BDO Unibank Inc.) as Director for Ways and Means; and, Maria Luz “Yayu” E. Javier (Avanza Inc.) who continues to serve as Election Chair.
For more information, visit www.bmap.org.ph or https://facebook.com/BankMarketingAssociationPH
Eric Montelibano is consultant of Integrated Marketing and Communications at Citystate Savings Bank and the president of the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines. He can be reached via erichmontelibano@gmail.com. The writer’s views and his written piece do not necessarilly reflect those of the B usiness M irror and the BMAP.
DOF deferral of carbon tax plan clouds ESG compliance
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
THE Department of Finance (DOF) has become lackadaisical on its push to impose an explicit carbon tax, which seeks to support the transition to a low-carbon economy while generating additional revenues.
“It’s not being considered for now,” Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto told the BusinessMirror when asked for an update.
In January last year, Recto enthusiastically proposed the development of a carbon tax and emissions trading system to actively reduce carbon footprints while allowing the government to mobilize financial resources.
The DOF chief that time said
the growth in the development of carbon pricing systems in the AsiaPacific region offers the Philippines an opportunity to keep up and take the lead.
More than a year later, Recto told the BusinessMirror he doesn’t see the need to impose additional taxes on fuel or electricity for now.
The Philippines does not levy an explicit carbon price, according to the
OECD. Fuel excise taxes, an implicit form of carbon pricing, cover 53.8 percent of emissions in 2023 while fossil fuel subsidies cover 4.2 percent of emissions, it added.
Before Recto, former Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno also considered a carbon tax to curb climate change and generate revenues.
Albeit contributing only 0.48 percent to global carbon emissions, the Philippines remains highly vulnerable to the impacts of global warming. Still, the country has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75 percent by 2023 as its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement. However, the DOF’s decision to giving low priority to carbon tax at this time could result in lost revenue opportunities for climate initiatives and the country’s commitment to sustainability goals, Tax Expert Raymond A. Abrea said.
“It may also affect investor confidence, especially among
those prioritizing environmental, social and government (ESG) compliance,” Abrea, the founder and CEO of the Asian Consulting Group, added.
He explained that the proper timing and implementation are also crucial to ensure that such a tax does not unduly burden consumers and industries.
The International Monetary Fund said in a report that a $50 carbon price could potentially raise revenues of 1.05 percent of gross dometic product ($7 billion) in 2030, coming from new charges on road fuels and coal.
Further, Abrea said, there is a need for a global carbon tax, where major polluters, specifically developed nations, would pay for their carbon emissions.
“The proposed global carbon tax would also serve as a way to raise climate financing, with developed countries contributing through their own carbon taxes,” he added.
Capital markets law seen to boost stock market trade
By VG Cabuag @villygcg
THE Capital Market Efficiency Promotion (CMEP) law would boost stock market transactions, according to Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick D. Go. Go said that a seven-fold increase in trading between buyers and sellers of stocks should be the result of the law’s provision that reduces the
capital gains tax from 0.6 percent to 0.1 percent.
“So imagine that it brings down the friction cost from 0.6 percent to 0.1 percent. The premise of reducing the tax is that the volume will go up,” the official said at the “InvestPH 2025” investor conference of the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE).
“It’s very clear to me that the biggest problem in our markets today is liquidity so we need to boost liquidity
in the market and I cannot think of a better way that government can act than to reduce the friction cost so we appeal to all the participants all the stakeholders of the capital markets to try to make this a reality,” Go added.
Along with other provisions under the law, CMEP Act aims to simplify taxation of passive income in the Philippines, he explained.
Upon signing into law of the CMEPA bill, the final withholding tax
would be standardized to 20 percent. It will also reduce the documentary stamp tax (DST) on original issuance of shares to 0.0075 percent from the current 0.01 percent
The CMEP Act also grants income tax exemption for gains from redemption of unit investment trust funds an mutual funds as well as remove DST on the original issuance, redemption, or disposition of shares in mutual funds.
By Dennis Estopace @DennisEstopace
ALMOST 5,000 funds marketing themselves as ESG now hold stakes in companies in the fossil-fuel industry, according to a fresh study of the European market by a team of nonprofits.
The study, which is based on an analysis of more than 14,000 European funds claiming to target environmental, social and governance goals, found that well over a third of those funds had together invested more than €123 billion ($134 billion) in companies “actively pushing” projects that expand the production of oil, gas and coal, according to its authors Urgewald and Facing Finance.
“Companies that pursue fossil-fuel expansion projects in the midst of a climate crisis are jeopardizing our future,” said Julia Dubslaff, finance researcher at Urgewald. “Their presence in ESG funds violates the very concept of sustainability.”
Fossil-fuel companies most frequently found in ESG funds were TotalEnergies SE, Shell Plc, Exxon Mobil Corp., Chevron Corp., Eni SpA and BP Plc., according to the study. Together, they account for ESG investments worth €23.5 billion, it said. Bloomberg News
The analysis is the latest to raise questions about the value of ESG labels, which have been slapped on funds exposed to everything from Russian government bonds to fossil fuels and—most recently—weapons of war. For that reason, Europe’s markets regulator, ESMA, has sought to rein in interpretations of ESG, forcing fund managers to demonstrate that their portfolios are actually aligned with what the label is supposed to represent.
ARE Filipinos financially ready to retire? Not so if pension schemes remain siloed, the Deputy CEO of the Asia School of Business (ASB) told the BusinessMirror.
Joseph Cherian, also a professor of Finance at ASB, pointed out the differences between the Philippines and three of its neighbors in Southeast Asia: Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore.
“These three countries have a single mandatory national social security savings scheme, with smaller supplementary schemes in some cases. All are defined contribution plans,” Cherian told the BusinessMirror. “In contrast, the Philippines has multiple pension and retirement schemes for different population segments; some mandatory, others optional.”
According to the ASB executive, “it would be wise” for Manila “to consolidate these various schemes and ensure t he sustainability of the defined benefit plans.”
“Otherwise, transitioning them to a national defined contribution plan may be a better alternative,” Cherian added.
The Philippines has two pension funds: the Social Security System (SSS) and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). The country also has several provident funds. The SSS has its Workers’ Investment and Savings Program (WISP) while the GSIS maintains its own as allowed by Republic Act 8291.
Each government agency also has its own PF after then-President Gloria Arroyo issued Executive Order 641 in 2007 authorizing the establishment and administration of PFs in the government.
A ccording to Cherian, he doubts these systems are exempted from the sustainability challenges that most pension plans worldwide face.
He cited that the 2023 SSS annual report revealed that the agency faced severe financial challenges.
On a consolidated basis, the SSS was significantly underfunded, with liabilities amounting to $150.53 billion—far e xceeding its assets of just $15.32 billion. Additionally, the system reported a substantial operating loss of $7.66 billion for the year, Cherian said.
Further highlighting these concerns, the Philippines’s SSS received a “D” rating in the 2024 Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index, ranking poorly
among global pension systems, he added. This low score (45.8) was primarily d riven by weak “Integrity” (27.7) and “Adequacy” (41.2) ratings, Cherian said. The index puts the Philippines below Poland’s and Peru’s in the overall value at 56.8 and 54.7, respectively.
According to the Mercer Index report, the Philippine index value increased slightly from 45.2 in 2023 to 45.8 in 2024, primarily due to the changes in the integrity sub-index. The changes recognized “the growing importance of cyber risk in financial services and the associated need to maintain public confidence in this industry.”
Meanwhile, Cherian believes “it is highly unlikely that the current schemes’ payouts in the Philippines will keep pace with the rising cost of living.”
“To address this, several measures are needed: raising the retirement age to extend working years, encouraging higher savings, and introducing home monetization options such as reverse mortgages,” he told the BusinessMirror. “Additionally, affordable, inflationindexed life annuities should be made accessible to citizens upon retirement.”
For Cherian, ensuring that income is adjusted for inflation to maintain
purchasing power is one of three elements that a citizen can tick off to say he or she is financially ready to retire. The other two are: accumulating sufficient savings before retirement that can be converted into a reliable income stream to cover living expenses; and, securing access to financial products that provide a steady income for life. Many workers, nonetheless, remain struggling to save enough for retirement.
According to Cherian, the Philippines should look to its neighboring A sean states that “are exploring several strategies to strengthen retirement security.”
He said these include providing a basic, means-tested safety-net pension for those in need, minimizing leakage from retirement savings by eliminating cash-out options during the accumulation phase, and introducing affordable home monetization schemes dedicated to funding retirement income. “Additionally, measures such as government top-ups, special matching-dollar programs, and integrating a healthcare component into the retirement system are being considered,” C herian said.
Health&Fitness
Colorectal cancer can be passed down to family members–expert
By Candy P. Dalizon Contributor
OLORECTAL cancer consis -
Ctently ranks among the top three most commonly diagnosed cancers globally. Dr. Zee Ying Kiat, Senior Consultant and Medical Oncologist at Parkway Cancer Centre in Singapore, recently visited the country and underscored the importance of prevention, screening, and early detection, emphasizing that colorectal cancer is highly treatable in its early stages. Parkway Cancer Centre (PCC) is one of the largest private cancer centers in Singapore. The center provides comprehensive cancer services from cancer screening, cancer diagnosis, cancer treatment to palliative care. The center operates within three of the largest well-known private acute tertiary hospitals–Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital and Gleneagles Hospital, all accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI).
Dr. Zee said age is the largest risk factor for colorectal cancer, as the likelihood of developing it increases with age. Other risk factors for colorectal cancer include a strong family history of colorectal cancer,
certain inherited conditions such as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), and polyps in the colon.
“About five to 10 percent of patients have a hereditary predisposition to colorectal cancer because oftentimes they develop these mutations or rather were born with these mutations not developing them over the course of their life. For these individuals, we usually see a very unique family history, whereby they are not the only ones. If you ask them in detail, they will describe family members with the same problem, diagnosed early on,” said Dr. Zee.
“And this often affects what we call the first relatives, a parent, a sibling, a child. So there are often clues in the family history as to whether somebody has an inherited form of colorectal cancer. But that is a small number of patients, five to 10 percent of all the patients with the disease,” added Dr. Zee.
Strong family history
HE encouraged patients with a strong family history of colorectal cancer to consult a physician. Colorectal cancer screening is also advised for individuals aged 50 and above, and for those experiencing
recurring symptoms.
While early-stage colorectal cancer is typically asymptomatic, the following symptoms warrant medical attention: changes in bowel habits, bloating, stomach pain especially at night, paleness, a lump in the tummy, unexplained fatigue, and weight loss.
Early screening can go a long way in improving survival rates for colorectal cancer. The main screening for the disease includes an annual Fecal Immunochemical Test or FIT and a colonoscopy every five to 10 years.
“Statistically speaking, if you find colorectal cancer in its earliest stage, we call that first stage where the cancer is still within the wall of the colon where it first originated. It has not attacked deeper into the wall, neither has it gone to surrounding lymph nodes, nor has it gone to far away organs. That’s the first stage. With surgery alone, we can cure about 90 to 95 percent of these patients,” said Dr. Zee.
Cancer prevention “IT is quite well known that perhaps one in three cancers can actually be prevented just by some very simple changes in our diet and our lifestyle,” said Dr. Zee.
A diet rich in fiber-rich foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, is recommended to lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Conversely, processed foods and red meats are known to increase this risk.
“Some of you may even have read the news some years ago now about how red meat has been categorized by the World Health Organization as being potentially carcinogenic, possibly cancer-causing. So we lessen our intake of these items, red meats, processed foods like bacon, and sausages,” Dr. Zee pointed out.
He also advised to stop smoking altogether and to exercise regularly.
“A sedentary lifestyle, which unfortunately many of us are adopting, can then lead to obesity. These are major risk factors for breast and colorectal cancer,” said Dr. Zee.
Dr. Zee also shared that colorectal cancer treatments are becoming more precise and personalized, contributing to the increased survival rates seen over the years. The type of treatment recommended will depend on several factors, including the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health. Strategies for treating colorectal cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
Rabies is still a threat; get checked immediately if bitten, scratched
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
RABIES remains to be a significant global health threat, causing 60,000 to 70,000 reported deaths annually.
The Philippines ranks sixth among countries with the highest rabies incidence.
In fact, the Department of Health (DOH) said, from January 1 to March 1 of this year, 55 rabies cases have been tallied. In 2014, a total of 426 patients with rabies were recorded, all resulted in deaths.
Forty-five percent (193) of these were bites from domestic pets, and of that percentage, more than half were of unknown vaccination status.
Of the cases in 2024, 56 were recorded in Central Luzon, 35 in CALABARZON, 43 from SOCCSKSARGEN.
“Ang rabies ay delikado at nakamamatay. 100 percent ang fatality sa mga kaso noong 2024. Pwede itong makuha sa kagat, kalmot, o sa laway ng hayop na may rabies kung sakaling madilaan ang tao sa sugat, mata, ilong, o bibig [Rabies is dangerous and deadly. The fatality rate for cases in 2024 was 100 percent. It can be contracted through a bite, scratch, or the saliva of an animal with rabies if it licks a person’s wound, eyes, nose, or mouth.],” said Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa.
Symptoms
THE DOH said that initial symptoms
are similar to the flu, such as fever, headache, and general weakness. There can also be discomfort, pain, numbness, itchiness, or a prickling sensation at the bite site. As the disease progresses, patients may experience mental confusion, delirium, hallucinations, excessive salivation, and muscle weakness or paralysis. Two prominent symptoms after the initial illness include hydrophobia or the fear of water, and aerophobia or the fear of air. These happen when, after coming into contact with water (e.g. when drinking) or a draft of air, the patient’s muscles contract involuntarily and painfully.
Diagnostic, treatment, other care WASH the bite mark or wound immediately with soap and running water for at least 10 minutes.
Consult a doctor immediately or go to the nearest Animal Bite Treatment Center even while observing the animal that bit you. If prescribed by a doctor, get the anti-rabies vaccine and complete the number of required doses.
Observe the involved animal (for example, a dog) for 14 days, and consult your physician if any of the following occurs: The dog becomes wild and runs aimlessly; The dog drools uncontrollably; The dog attacks any moving or non-moving object; The dog does not eat or drink; The dog
dies within the observation period. If the concerned animal cannot be observed (e.g. stray dog), and you do not know if the animal has rabies or not, it is still best to consult a physician or the nearest Animal Bite Treatment Center immediately.
PhilHealth benefit package IN recognition of the burden of rabies in the country this National Rabies Awareness Month, the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) reiterates that there is a benefit package that members could avail to cover for services against rabies.
Hinihikayat natin ang ating mga miyembro na huwag mag-atubiling magpatingin kung sila ay kinagat o di kaya’y kinalmot ng hayop, alaga man o hindi. Ang rabies ay isang lubhang nakamamatay na sakit ngunit maaari itong maiwasan kung agarang mabibigyan ng bakuna [We encourage our members to not hesitate to seek medical attention if they are bitten or scratched by an animal, whether a pet or not. Rabies is a very deadly disease but it can be prevented if vaccinated promptly.],” said Dr. Edwin M. Mercado, PhilHealth President and CEO.
The Animal Bite Treatment (ABT) package, which has been increased to P5,850 from the previous P3,000, covers essential postexposure prophylaxis including
Being informed is essential in protecting the skin from the sun to enjoy the summer—expert
By Rory Visco Contributor
ADERMATOLOGIST has reminded Filipinos to look after their skin as the hot season is expected to start very soon. Attention should be given to the proper care and protection of the skin to make it healthy and prevent serious damage that can also be life threatening.
“Protecting the skin from the sun is very important, especially here in the Philippines where the rays of the sun can be really intense. For those going to popular summer destinations like in the beach, I hope they keep in mind that sun protection is extremely vital,” according to Dr. Jasmin Jamora, President of the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS), the country’s recognized dermatology authority composed of properly trained, competent and
ethical dermatologists who are experts on skin, hair, and nail concerns. Dr. Jamora suggests all to wear sunscreen 30 minutes before going out of the house, SPF 50 and above regardless of the brand. Why 30 minutes? “You need time for the sunscreen to be absorbed by the skin. You shouldn’t apply or spray it on the skin and then immediately jump into the pool or swim on the beach. That is very wrong. It should be applied and then absorbed first by the skin before going out. It’s a cardinal rule in skin protection, says Dr. Jamora.
Chemical, physical components
SUNSCREENS have two components according to her: chemical and physical.
“The physical just stays atop the skin so it’s just a physical barrier. But the chemical component it must be absorbed first by the skin so you have to give time for that
rabies vaccine and rabies immune globulin for immediate protection, local wound care, tetanus toxoid and anti-tetanus serum, antibiotics, and supplies which include syringes, alcohol and antiseptics.
Kami sa PhilHealth ay nakikiisa sa National Rabies Prevention and Control Committee sa kanilang kampanyang rabies-free na pusa’t aso, kaligtasan ng pamilyang Pilipino. Ang ABT Package ay maaaring makuha sa higit 700 accredited ABT Package Providers sa bansa, at patuloy pa natin itong dinadagdagan. Gayunpaman, pinaaalalahanan natin ang publiko na ang unang hakbang sa pag-iwas sa rabies ay ang pagpapabakuna ng ating mga alagang hayop. [We at PhilHealth join the National Rabies Prevention and Control Committee in their campaign for rabies-free cats and dogs, the safety of Filipino families. The ABT Package is available at over 700 accredited ABT Package Providers nationwide, and we are continuing to expand. However, we remind the public that the first step in preventing rabies is to vaccinate our pets.] Let us all be responsible pet owners,” added Dr. Mercado. For more details on anti-rabies benefits and other packages, members may call PhilHealth’s 24/7 touch points at (02) 866-225-88 or at mobile numbers (Smart) 0998857-2957, 0968-865-4670, (Globe) 0917-1275987 or 0917-1109812.
Private schools group holds first HPV summit to strengthen prevention through immunization
IN a groundbreaking move, Miriam College and the Catholic Educators Association of the Philippines-National Capital Region (CEAP NCR) convened the first-ever HPV Summit for Private Schools on Saturday, March 15, 2025 to advance HPV prevention.
The event, “One Community Against HPV: Schools and Families Championing Health Through Immunization,” brought together educators, parents, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to address the urgent need for HPV vaccination among school-aged children.
Human papillomavirus or HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection. Some HPV infections cause genital warts. Others can cause abnormal cells to develop, which go on to become cancer. Cancers from HPV can be prevented with vaccines.
While the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Education (DepEd) have established public school immunization programs, private schools have had limited participation. The summit aimed to bridge that gap by encouraging private schools to integrate HPV vaccination into their health programs, ensuring that all students, regardless of school type, are protected against HPV-related diseases.
“Investing in health is essential to the holistic development of society,” said Trixie Marie Sison, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Miriam College. “By bringing together educators, healthcare providers, and community leaders, we are fostering a network of support that empowers women and girls to lead healthy, fulfilling lives,” added Sison.
Why prevention matters
FOR Belay Fernando, an athlete and cervical cancer survivor, HPV vaccination is more than a medical recommendation; it is a lifesaving intervention.
Her battle with cervical cancer began in 2018 with unusual symptoms that led to multiple misdiagnoses. By the time she received the correct diagnosis, the disease had progressed to stage 3B, requiring an intense treatment regimen that included 25 external radiation sessions, four brachytherapy sessions, and six rounds of chemotherapy. Even after completing treatment, the cancer persisted, forcing her to undergo additional rounds of chemotherapy for two more years.
Adding to the physical and emotional strain, the overwhelming financial burden is a common reality for many Filipino families.
“Many Filipinas don’t have access to timely care,” Fernando emphasized, underscoring the importance of prevention through vaccination.
Determined to break the stigma surrounding cervical cancer, Fernando now actively advocates for open conversations about HPV, screening, and vaccination. “People associate cervical cancer with STDs, and that prevents women from speaking up. But awareness saves lives,” she said.
A call to action
HPV, a highly transmissible virus, is responsible for nearly all cervical cancer cases and is also linked to other cancers affecting both men and
women.
Dr. Socorro Bernardino, trustee of the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society, stressed that HPV vaccination can prevent up to 90 percent of HPV-related cancers. However, despite the vaccine being available since 2006 and included in the National Immunization Program (NIP) since 2015, only 33 percent of eligible Filipino girls have completed the recommended two doses.
“The science is clear. This vaccine saves lives, yet many children remain unprotected due to misconceptions, community hesitancy, or lack of access,” said Dr. Migo Mantaring, Director, Bureau of Learner Support Services, Department of Education. “Schools play a critical role in ensuring children receive life-saving vaccines in a trusted environment.” To institutionalize school-based health services, Mantaring announced that DepEd, DOH, and local government units (LGUs) are finalizing a joint administrative order to integrate school clinics into the local healthcare system. A School Health Benefit Package is also being developed in collaboration with PhilHealth, aiming to provide financial support for preventive health services, including immunization. Mantaring also called on the private sector to expand HPV vaccination access through public-private partnerships.
“We must work together, educators, health professionals, policymakers, and parents, to remove barriers to vaccination and ensure every child is protected,” he said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Global Strategy to Accelerate the Elimination of Cervical Cancer outlines three critical targets for 2030: fully vaccinating 90 percent of girls against HPV by age 15, screening 70 percent of women with a high-performance test by ages 35 and 45, and ensuring 90 percent of diagnosed women receive treatment.
Expanding HPV vaccination in private schools is a crucial step toward meeting these targets. By ensuring that students in private institutions are not left behind, stakeholders hope to bridge the immunization gap and prevent future cases of HPV-related cancers. The summit underscored the crucial role of schools in fostering healthy behaviors, combating misinformation, and improving vaccine access. Moreover, it signified a key collaborative milestone among schools, healthcare providers, and policymakers, all united in the mission to eradicate HPV-related cancers. Candy P. Dalizon
Think tank establishes program to look into PHL healthcare system
By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes Contributor
process and provide additional protection to the skin,” explains Dr. Jamora. She added that sunscreen should also be reapplied at least an hour after the first application when swimming, or after two hours when sweating.
Dr. Jamora reiterated the dangers of too much sun exposure, most of which is sunburn. “Just because we’re Filipino and we have brown skin doesn’t mean we can’t have sunburn, which can further increase risks of having any of the types of skin cancer like melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma, which occurs in those with prolonged sun exposure like farmers, street vendors, etc.”
But for some of the people like farmers, construction workers, street vendors, the sad thing is many of them would rather use what they earn to buy and put food on the table than care for
their skin. “It is understandable that not many people have access to sun protection because of costs. Instead, they can wear wide-brimmed hats like for farmers, those with brims that measure at least three inches wide to protect the face and neck, or umbrellas for pedestrians in the city and even tightly knit clothes for protection when outdoors.”
She added that when outside, always “seek the shade,” as she called it, meaning to go to a shaded area whether when swimming or walking on the street. And if possible, schedule the time when going out so avoid going out between 10 am and 3 pm, where the sun’s rays are at its peak. It’s really unfortunate that the temperature in the Philippines is getting to be hotter every year, perhaps due to global climate changes, but there are ways to protect the skin, Dr. Jamora said. “But despite that, there are ways to protect ourselves from the damaging heat of the sun. It’s really important that we are informed of the dangers, and likewise informed of the appropriate ways on how to protect ourselves,” Dr. Jamora concluded
LEADING government think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) recently established the Health Economics and Finance Program (HEFP) to strengthen the country’s healthcare system.
The significant initiative, approved by the PIDS Board of Trustees, aims to conduct cuttingedge, data-driven policy research to assist the Department of Health and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to effectively implement the Universal Health Care Act (UHC). Mandated under Republic Act 11975 in 2023, the HEFP will focus on studying reimbursement reforms within PhilHealth.
Dr. Valerie Gilbert Ulep, Senior Research Fellow at PIDS and Program Director of the HEFP, underscored the pressing need for such reforms. “Half of the country’s health expenses are paid out-of-pocket, pushing many Filipinos into poverty and financial catastrophe,” he stated. “Even [more concerning is that], due to limited financial resources, many individuals are forced to forgo essential healthcare services altogether,” said Dr. Ulep.
PIDS pointed out the alarming reality highlights the urgent need to address gaps in financial protection and healthcare accessibility. Ulep further explained that these challenges stem
from PhilHealth’s current limitations in covering the actual costs of care and implementing provider incentive structures that prioritize patient benefits.
Health-care costing HE said the new program at PIDS will tackle these issues head-on by focusing on healthcare costing and other economic studies to support PhilHealth in addressing challenges in the current reimbursement system. A key priority will be supporting the transition to Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRGs), a payment model mandated under the UHC Act. DRGs aim to streamline reimbursements by categorizing patients based on diagnoses, treatments, and other factors which promote greater efficiency and transparency in healthcare financing. To achieve its goals, he said the program will leverage PIDS’ long history of providing extensive research expertise in health and public policy. Furthermore, it will utilize the wealth of granular health and financial data collected over the years from local governments and healthcare facilities. Ulep stressed that the robust data foundation will enable the HEFP to generate evidencebased insights and recommendations, ensuring that PhilHealth’s reforms are both effective and aligned with the broader objectives of the UHC Act.
EXPERTS, advocates and parents took the stage at the HPV Summit’s panel discussion to share strategies for protecting young girls and women against cervical cancer
Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz
JICA Phils. explores coffee’s role in global development
THE Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)Philippines successfully hosted its first nongovernment organization seminar since the pandemic.
Indigenous communities using agroforestry to cultivate coffee, as well as challenges associated with sustainable coffee production.
Meanwhile, Pistacia Mindanao Coffee Export president Katsuhisa Ota imparted his journey in the Philippines, specifically the motivations for continuing his coffee business despite various challenges.
They emphasized the importance of environmental conservation, the challenges and significance of coffee cultivation, and the role of international cooperation in supporting local communities. Their perspectives helped participants gain a deeper understanding of the connections between the coffee industry and economic development.
FRANCE has initiated a major ocean conservation campaign in the Philippines ahead of the “Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3)” in Nice this June.
The new call-to-action called the “100 Days for the Ocean” aims to mobilize stakeholders in creating a massive climate-themed artwork using 1,600 solar-powered lamps made from recycled bottles and solar-recharging systems.
The project highlights innovation by utilizing affordable, durable, and sustainable materials to produce natural lighting.
The gathering brought together Japanese professionals, students and coffee enthusiasts who explored global challenges through the lens of the coffee industry. It provided a platform on examining ways coffee production intersects with economic development, environmental sustainability, and international cooperation. Participants listened to expert discussions and gained fresh perspectives on their daily choices impacting the world. The event featured distinguished speakers specializing in sustainable coffee production and environmental conservation.
TCordillera Green Network’s founder and former representative Mariko Sorimachi discussed the topic on “Protecting the Forests of the Philippines through Sustainable Coffee Cultivation.” She shared her experiences collaborating with
The seminar engaged participants in the discussions as diverse types of coffee were served and brewed by Makoto Suzuki who is a barista from Fresh Roaster Coffee Tonya. It provided an immersive experience and allowed participants to reflect on the seminar topics while having expertly prepared coffee.
The speakers shared personal insights into their work in the Philippines and the driving forces behind their continued advocacy.
NGO Seminars are among JICA’s efforts in promoting international cooperation and sustainable development. The agency has long supported various development sectors in partner-countries like the Philippines. By organizing events like the seminar, it said it continues to foster collaboration, encourage active citizen participation, and connect people with global challenges to drive meaningful change.
“The climate crisis compels us to act: We must significantly, rapidly and sustainably reduce global greenhouse gas emissions,” said Amb. Marie Fontanel during the launch. “In the UNOC3, we must again offer—France and the Philippines—to raise our voices to champion the message of action, solidarity and long-term commitment.” She furthered that France remains committed to its shared goal with the Philippines in the fight against climate change.
Through the initiative, the European country also aims to raise awareness among the public about the preservation of marine ecosystems.
DFA-Office of Consular Affairs opened on a Saturday for Women’s Month EU
HE Department of Foreign Affairs’ Office of Consular Affairs (DFA-OCA) opened its consular services on a Saturday on March 8 in celebration of International Women’s Day and the opening of the 2025 National Women’s Month with the theme: “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas” at the OCA Lobby.
For the first Saturday operation of the month, about 1,300 female applicants were processed for their passports and 400 for authentication. While the Saturday
operations were primarily offered to females, DFA-OCA also assisted senior citizens, persons with disabilities, children and 500 male applicants.
In her remarks, Asst. Sec. Mendoza-Oblena who led the event reiterated that the celebration of National Women’s Month “is not just a time for us to reflect on the extraordinary contributions of women [in history; it’s a chance to recognize] our ongoing journey toward gender equality, empowerment and inclusivity.”
DFA-OCA and consular offices
across the country will open again on March 22 to offer consular services for all women, as the
Malaysian Embassy holds ‘rice porridge’ diplomacy
ON March 13, the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila whipped up a feast in the spirit of the Holy Month of Ramadan for its “Bubur Lambuk program.”
The embassy explained that bubur lambuk is a traditional porridge dish popular during the fasting month of Ramadan in Malaysia commonly made with rice, meat, spices, and vegetables, explained the embassy. Chicken, beef, or lamb may also be added depending on personal preference. It is traditionally shared with family and friends, reflecting the true spirit of Ramadan, which is of giving.
On its third year, the Bubur Lambuk program is part of the embassy’s efforts to introduce Malaysian culture, customs, and traditions to the Philippines.
The embassy’s chef Ammar
Syafiq Ayob prepared this year’s, together with the staff and spouses of the embassy’s officials at the Ambassador’s Official Residence. The dish was shared with Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., cabinet secretaries, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and friends of Malaysia.
Amb. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino hopes to continue the program in the years to come as part of the embassy’s initiatives to promote cultural exchange between Malaysia and the Philippines.
The deputation dedicates itself to promoting cultural exchange and strengthening diplomatic relations between Malaysia and the host country. Through various initiatives and events, it said it strives to foster mutual understanding and respect among cultures.
To create mobilization 100 days leading to UNOC3, partners from civil society, nongovernment organizations (NGOs), universities, the private sector and French agencies will be invited once a month to collectively build the lanterns.
The launch of the 100 Days for the Ocean, which is a partnership between the French Embassy in Manila and local NGO Liter of Light, coincided with the
THE Delegation of the European Union (EU) in the Philippines’ ambassador Massimo Santoro recently toured the country for a lecture series on raising awareness among college and university students on the integral role of the bloc in the Philippine setting and the entire Southeast Asia.
The event, “The European Union: A Vital Partner for the Philippines, Southeast Asia, and Beyond,” was a joint effort between the European Studies Association of the Philippines (ESAP) and the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s School of Diplomacy and Governance (SDG) as part of their lecture series.
The discussion revolved around the highlights of the relationship between the EU and the country, as well as the security and economic challenges where the union may assist. It likewise tackled the future of the EU-Philippine relations.
“It has been also conducted in light of the growing importance of the EU not merely as a development actor, but more importantly as a security actor amid the challenges the Philippines and the region as a whole is currently facing,” Benilde’s SDG Consular and Diplomatic Affairs/Diplomacy and International Affairs Faculty and Practicum coordinator Josue Raphael Cortez noted.
10th anniversary of the “Manila Call to Action on Climate Change.” AFP modernization IN another development, the French defense industry is ready to hold talks over the national government’s plan to modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) under its “Re-Horizon 3” program, according to Fontanel.
The Re-Horizon 3 of the AFP’s modernization is focused on improving the military’s archipelagic-defense capabilities by acquiring more ships, aircraft, and radar systems, among others.
“That’s a signal that the Philippines wishes to acquire new equipment for different kinds of forces—be it the Navy or the Air Force, or the Armed Forces on the ground,” she said, then confirmed that France will be ready for any kind of request that it will receive from Philippine authorities.” French suppliers, according to the envoy, are ready to engage with the government should it officially decide to acquire military capabilities from France: “We have a full-fledged defense industry: combat-proven and very sovereignty-oriented, so we have assets.” Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA
In the open forum, Santoro addressed queries on pressing global issues, which include the possible repercussions of United States president Donald Trump’s victory not just on EU relations, but also global trading and politics in general. ESAP president and Ateneo European Studies Program director Dr. Manuel Enverga III who was the firstever Filipino to receive a Jean Monnet Chair position served as reactor. Attendees from partnerinstitutions included those from De La Salle University-Manila, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, San Beda University-Rizal Campus and Muntinlupa Business High SchoolSucat Annex.
DFA partakes in “celebrating the remarkable achievements of women in every sector.”
APPLICANTS accommodated for passport processing. DFA OCA-PAU
AMB. Marie Fontanel JOYCE ROCAMORA/PNA
AMB. Massimo Santoro
COUNSELLOR Nadhirah Mohammad Zanudin transfers the bubur lambuk portions that were distributed to the embassy’s friends.
Sun Life Survey: Filipinas are More Financially
Secure Than Ever, But Challenges Persist
WOMEN in the Philippines have made significant strides towards financial empowerment although barriers remain.
This is according to new research by Sun Life Asia titled “Women’s Wealth in Focus: Building Confidence and Security” which interviewed over 3,000 female respondents to understand the financial attitudes, behaviors, and challenges of women across the Philippines, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam.
Finding showed that 60 percent of Filipinas feel their financial security has improved compared to their mothers’ generation. Despite the generational progress, however, traditional family dynamics and responsibilities held by women at home prevent many from achieving financial stability.
For instance, 36 percent of mothers report stress from juggling the needs of their children and parents, reflecting the multi-generational responsibilities that many women carry. While 52 perent
of women are saving for their parents’ current or future elderly care, only 16 percent of women with children expect full support from their children as they age. This may reflect a growing desire among women to cultivate their own financial resilience, opting to prepare for their future care needs independently rather than relying on their children.
At the same time, financial literacy remains an issue in the Philippines, where 71 percent of women rate their knowledge of financial and investment products as basic or beginner level. When asked to give estimates on key financial knowledge points, majority are able to share the exchange rate between their local currency and the US dollar (79 percent), balance of credit card debt (66 percent), and current interest rates in the Philippines (57 percent).
However, there are still some gaps in financial literacy particularly seeing that 53 percent with mortgages are unable to estimate their remaining balance and 53
KCC Philippines Named ‘2025 Most Outstanding Korean Cultural Center’
KCC Director Kim Myeongjin, together with MCST Minister Yun In Chon, receives the certificate as the “2025 Most Outstanding Korean Cultural Center. “ Photo by Lee Jun Young.
interactive exhibition in collaboration with the National Museum of Korea, a webtoon exhibition with the Korea Creative Content Agency, and a K-drama original soundtrack performance by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.
Throughout last year, the KCC also hosted events like the Korean Film Festival, the Philippine-Korea Culture Exchange Festival, Korean beauty-related programs, and the Korea Festival, which promotes Korean culture in Manila and Cebu in partnership with the cultural counterparts in the Philippines like the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Cultural Center in the Philippines (CCP) and the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP).
Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Yu In Chon on March 4 spoke at the annual gathering of KCC directors and cultural promotion officials at KOCIS Center in Seoul’s Jung-gu District.
“Please actively promote Korean culture on the occasion of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit slated in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, from October to November,” Minister Yu said.
“We will support KCCs to faithfully play their roles as hubs connecting the world with Hallyu (Korean Wave).”
At the four-day gathering, the KCC directors and cultural promotion officials attending will discuss cooperation in spreading Hallyu with 25 related organizations such as the Korea Tourism Organization and King Sejong Institute Foundation.
an
Vice Ganda renews partnership with CDO Funtastyk on its 20th year
CDO Funtastyk, the No.1 tocino brand in the Philippines is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. And what better way to start the celebration? The return of Vice Ganda as its brand ambassador. The Unkabogable Queen is back to bring 100 percent fun, energy, and enjoyable moments to Filipino homes. Just like her, CDO Funtastyk wears the No.1 crown, a title earned through years of delivering high-quality and delicious tocino loved by families nationwide. Make way for the one and only Unkabogable Queen of good vibes. Vice Ganda is here with CDO Funtastyk, proving once again that the No. 1 crown belongs to those who give their all. For her, being No. 1 isn’t just a title; it’s about breaking barriers, setting new standards, and showing that hard work and passion always win. That’s exactly what the Unkabogable Queen and CDO Funtastyk have in common. As the No. 1 tocino brand in the country, CDO Funtastyk takes pride in delivering 100 percent young pork tocino, loved by Filipinos for its quality, tenderness, and delicious flavor. When asked about how it feels to return as the endorser of CDO Funtastyk, Vice Ganda shared her excitement: “Of course I am very happy that they reconsidered me to be the endorser of Funtastyk Tocino because this was one of my very first endorsements and I am very proud of the brand. It was one of the best TVC that I did before and that is why Funtastyk Tocino is very memorable to me. So when I learned that I would be doing another campaign for them, I sand was really happy to be considered again. It is truly an honor that was treasured by the people I worked with before. And I was chosen once
VICE Ganda poses with CDO’s Ong Family. From left, they are Janna Marie Ong-Santos, Marketing Manager; Jerome Ong, President and CEO; and Dr. Charmaine Ong-Castro, SVP, Corporate Purchasing, Treasury and Corporate Governance. again. It feels so good that I was chosen again.” Bernice Ilacad-Jalgalado, CDO Vice President for Marketing, is just as excited about this renewed partnership. “Vice Ganda embodies everything that makes CDO Funtastyk the No.1 tocino brand. She has a commitment to excellence, passion for what she does, and the drive to always give her all. That’s why it’s only fitting that the Unkabogable Queen and the No.1 Tocino are together again.” Being No. 1 takes more than just popularity; it requires consistency, passion, and the drive to always do more. Vice Ganda and CDO Funtastyk share the same winning mindset: delivering what people love and expect from them. Both continue to set the bar higher, bringing joy and satisfaction to Filipinos in their own ways. And now that they’re claiming the No. 1 crown together, they’re unstoppable in spreading good vibes and delivering the delicious taste of 100 percent young pork tocino to every table.
percent are not able to share the average annual return of their investments. Moreover, 68 percent face challenges in finding financial products tailored to their unique needs.
Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer at Sun Life Philippines, said, “The survey highlights the Filipinas growing focus on savings and financial independence. While women are committed to their financial futures, there’s a clear knowledge gap regarding available resources and the importance of early financial planning. Seeking expert advice can help address concerns about unforeseen financial risks. This approach not only helps protect against unexpected costs but also ensures that women can maintain their desired lifestyles while working towards long-term financial security.”
As women continue to advance in their financial security and independence journeys, it is crucial to have the right support in place. Sun Life is committed
No Fees, No Stress, Just Freelance with Benefits, Only with Maya
FREELANCERS , get ready to fall for a relationship that’s as rewarding as it is effortless. With Maya, the #1 Digital Bank App in the Philippines; you’re about to experience a Freelance with Benefits journey that’s all about keeping every peso you earn, with perks that’ll make you swipe right every single time.
Stage 1: Swipe Right – The Start of Something Casual Yet Oh-So-Beneficial WHY settle for a relationship that leaves you with empty promises? At first glance, Maya catches your eye with zero drama and zero fees. Imagine free PayPal and Wise transfers that deliver cashback for
PayPal and Wise on transfers of at least P15,000, just a taste of the good stuff waiting for you. You can even pay your BIR taxes on the app with zero convenience fees for first-time BIR tax payments plus P20 cashback for a hassle-free experience. It’s a casual hookup with benefits that make every peso count!
Stage 2: The Hookup – When Things Heat Up ONCE you’ve swiped right, it’s time to get comfortable. Maya transforms your everyday freelance hustle into an affair with benefits—effortless money management and rewards that keep the excitement alive. Whether it’s watching your savings grow at up to 15 percent interest per annum with Maya Savings or setting personal goals with mini savings accounts earning 6 percent interest, every interaction with Maya feels like a sweet, no-strings-
Power Mac Center backs Bataan LGU bid
PREMIER Apple partner Power Mac Center (PMC)
provided the technology requirements of the Provincial Government of Bataan in its bid to accelerate capacity-building for its grade school and high school teachers.
In a recent turnover ceremony led by Governor Jose Enrique “Joet” Garcia III, over 4,000 MacBook devices were distributed to elementary teachers and school heads, and schools with computer laboratories across Bataan. The province is accelerating the digital transformation of its classrooms by integrating technology. This initiative aims to enhance teaching and learning experiences through the adoption of digital tools and interactive learning platforms.
“Power Mac Center is honored to extend our education solutions to the local government of Bataan and its dedicated teachers to empower them amid the increasingly tech-driven education setting. We hope to partner with more local governments and members of the academe in our mission to continuously help Filipino students be globally competitive,” said PMC Director for Marketing and Product Management Joey Alvarez.
As a valued education partner, the Bataan government enjoys PMC’s special support in overall servicing, from product procurement and priority service and repair to technical training for teachers, school principals, and IT personnel. This covers topics that explore the possibilities of teaching and learning with Mac and foundational resources that will help them innovate in their classroom.
Such investment is ultimately expected to make students in Bataan more competitive and equip them with the digital skills required in the workplace now and in the future.
“We know that this will help you in your teaching, creating your lesson plans,” said Bataan Vice Governor Ma. Cristina Garcia. “Rest assured and I proudly tell Vice Governors in other provinces that our SEF or special education fund is fully harnessed in our province of Bataan, and we are really giving the share for our education system.”
The event was actually the second installment of device turnovers, following the success of the initial implementation benefiting no less than 2,500 junior and senior high school teachers and Division supervisors in 2023.
PMC’s Education Business group has been paving the way for digital empowerment within the academe by extending end-to-end tailored support, from the procurement and use of Apple devices and accessories to service and training. Its solution packages are specially designed to prepare teachers and students alike for the classroom of today and of the future. The company even accommodates Customized-to-Order (CTO) units to cater to the individual needs of schools, universities, and LGUs. With its expansive presence of over 120 retail stores nationwide, it is now easier than ever for LGUs and school administrators to accelerate their education campaigns. In Central Luzon alone, PMC has retail presence in [Bataan] PMC SM City Bataan and PMC Vista Mall Bataan; [Bulacan] PMC SM City Baliwag, PMC SM City San Jose del Monte, PMC SM City Marilao, and The Loop SM Center Pulilan; [Nueva Ecija] PMC SM City Cabanatuan; [Pampanga] PMC SM City Clark, PMC SM City Telabastagan, PMC SM City Pampanga, PMC Vista Mall Pampanga, and The Loop Newpoint Mall; and [Zambales] PMC Harbor Point and PMC SM City Olongapo Central. PMC’s official service arm Mobile Care also has a branch at Newpoint Mall.
SingLife, you’re always protected while you indulge in your independent lifestyle.
Stage 3: Casual to Committed – When Benefits Turn Into a Lasting Affair WHEN the perks keep rolling in, you know this isn’t just a casual fling—it’s a committed relationship with your finances. Maya Easy Credit offers instant, hasslefree access to credit, so you’re always ready for those unexpected twists—be it a delayed payment, an urgent expense, or a career-changing opportunity you just can’t miss. With Maya, every peso stays with you, and every benefit makes your freelance life smarter and more secure. From free transfers and high-yield savings to seamless payments and instant credit, Maya is the one-stop app that transforms your freelance hustle into a full-blown, benefit-packed romance. Ready to upgrade your freelance relationship? Switch to Maya, keep every peso you earn, and enjoy the perks of a Freelance with Benefits lifestyle. Visit maya.ph/freelancer , and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.
to upskill teachers
Meanwhile, retail customers can also avail the special education pricing for the iMac, MacBook, iPad, AppleTV, and Mac Mini, as well as Mac and iPad
MISCONCEPTION VS REALITY: UNDERSTANDING INDIVIDUALS WITH DOWN SYNDROME
IN commemoration of the National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month, the Center for Inclusive Education (CIE) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) encouraged the general public to challenge misconceptions and replace them with compassion.
Motivated by its mission to create a more inclusive place for students, the Benilde CIE continues to work with parents, partners and associates to tear down the unjustified barriers that may be experienced within the community.
The experts and its team of advocates provide support services to diversely gifted students with specific learning needs. These include those who have physical and sensorial conditions in the areas of learning and socialization.
The center closely works with faculty and academic administrators to ensure that enrollees are provided reasonable accommodations to bring them from application to graduation, as well as assist them in their placement and employment.
To further foster awareness and increase understanding and acceptance, the division shared several misconceptions about individuals with Down syndrome.
The key insights are based on the article published by the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, an international non-profit group dedicated to improving the lives of those with Down syndrome through advocacy and research, education and medical care. More information can be found at www.facebook. com/ciebenilde.
n Myth: People with Down syndrome cannot learn.
Fact: Many children with Down syndrome can learn to read and write, particularly when teachers are skilled, set high standards, and constantly assess progress. Although further research is needed to discover the most effective methods, with the right support they can succeed academically, acquire new skills, and reach their goals—just like anyone else.
n Myth: People with Down syndrome cannot live independent lives.
Fact: Many individuals with Down syndrome live independently or with little assistance, drive, hold jobs, and actively engage in their communities. With improved educational and employment opportunities, they can be valuable members of the workforce. Employers likewise report greater satisfaction when working with colleagues who have Down syndrome.
n Myth: People with Down syndrome are always happy.
Fact: They experience a wide range of emotions just like anyone else. Studies show that they are at higher risk for depression, which is often overlooked. It is important to recognize that, like everyone else, adults with Down syndrome likewise need access to emotional support, educational and employment opportunities, and social engagement to help them manage their well-being and thrive.
n Myth: Down syndrome is the same for everyone.
Fact: While several folks with Down syndrome face similar challenges, like developmental delays or learning difficulties, the extent and nature of these challenges can greatly vary. They still have their distinct strengths and abilities, and their needs differ from person to person. Though they may share certain physical traits, like almond-shaped eyes or a shorter stature, they resemble their families more than each other—just like any group of people with similar features.
Parentlife BusinessMirror
Nurture and prosper: Raising children for a bright future–Part II
ET me continue with my list from last week:
L3. School: The best training ground for life. This third tip is what I learned from my own childhood. When I was 4, my grandparents and grand aunt would repeatedly tell me, “How you study as a child becomes practice on how hard you will work in the future.” It stuck to me that it was my choice if I wanted to work harder, because I will be the one facing the benefits of my hard work in the future. Viewing school as an opportunity for life skills development rather than just an academic race can reduce stress and encourage long-term growth.
It is also important to highlight the importance of each of our support system—siblings, parents and friends. All of them played a very important role in helping me raise my kids to work hard in school.
4. Balancing résumé goals with value goals. Parents often focus on building their child’s “résumé”—grades, extracurricular activities, and achievements. It is important to balance résumé goals (academic excellence, career aspirations, specialized skills) and value goals (integrity, empathy, resilience, and contribution to society). I believe that encouraging children to align personal values with achievements fosters long-term fulfillment and purpose in life.
There also must be a good collaboration between you and your child in building their goals. They are still children so they need our guidance, but being open to listen to their choices is also a must. This gives them more accountability and control over their plans of actions.
For example, my son was a quiet boy who loved playing alone. When I asked him what he wanted to be when he grows up at that age, he said he wanted to be a dad. I realized through the years that his value goals are far more important than résumé goals.
He likes learning in his own relaxed way so he can absorb both the technical and social lessons of that experience.
y 14, he was already winning foreign competitions in fencing and even ranked 4th once at a U17 national ranking competition. But he insisted to put more time in basketball, which he started during the pandemic at age 12. Despite my discouragement, he worked hard in basketball. When asked why, he said he wanted to learn something new and expand learning strategies in another sport. He also found very good friends, “big brothers” and coaches in basketball which taught him leadership and team work. Today, he is class president. 5. Love the journey: Growth mindset in parenting. Parenting is not about perfection—it’s about progress. Australian parenting author, educator and speaker Maggie Dent urges parents to shift their mindset from “getting it right” to “learning as we go.”
I have always referred to Carol S. Dweck, PhD’s book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success as my constant guide in parenting.
I constantly remind myself and my children that a person with a growth mindset sees challenge as an opportunity to learn, and difficulty is an inevitable part of the learning process. In short, as a parent, let’s learn and laugh with our child toward a happy learning journey together.
I am lucky that my dad was a great role model of growth mindset. Like any parent, he was not perfect, but I always felt he loved parenting and teaching me every chance he got. More than this, in his generation where having a son was extremely important, he never once let us feel we were less valuable because we were girls. He equipped us with skills, courage and independence. He allowed me to learn to drive at 14. I enjoyed being called Schumacher by my friends in college because of my driving skills. He encouraged me to take my M.B.A. and later on supported me in earning my teacher’s license, even if it affected my hours in the company. In my experience, as I continuously embrace a growth mindset, parenting becomes less stressful. I don’t watch out for rights or wrongs, successes or failures. I look at all my happenings with my children as part of a journey to discover each other’s strengths, weaknesses, new talents, new fears...all while garnering so much laughter in between.
I also get to appreciate the uniqueness of each of my child, instead of looking at them as a checklist of achievements. I see them more like a book-inprogress, each of them seeking out experiences that allow them to grow and love their lives because of the choices they made.
I ended my talk by sharing “The Best Gift.” I shared some sample Canva multi-slide digital cards I would give my kids during special or milestone occasions to remind them of their journey. As seen with some of the photos I share here, when Meagan celebrated her birthday, or when she was off to university, I would give them advice but also put photos that remind them of what they have gone through. Because I believe that the best we can give to our children to usher to their bright futures is the brightness of our unconditional love...that win or lose, joyous or sad, our love for them will only grow stronger each day. n
Homemakers can elevate bathrooms with tech-driven faucet finishes that combine style and durability
WHEN it comes to bathroom projects— whether it’s a new build or a remodel— plumbing fixtures may not be the most glamorous part of the design, but they’re definitely one of the most important. And who’s to say they can’t be as aesthetically pleasing, too?
Take the faucet. Not only should this be functional and durable with how much use it sees on a daily basis, but it should also work well with the rest of the fixtures for a cohesive bathroom look. That’s where faucet finishes play a huge role, according to Kohler. The finish of the faucet not only enlivens the bathroom with color, contrast and dimension, but also determines its performance and resistance to corrosion, scale buildup, humid conditions, and scratches over time.
“You would want to be knowledgeable and confident in your selections when investing money and time into achieving the bathroom of your desires,” says Kimi Abapo, Senior Marketing Manager at Kohler Philippines. “Particularly
when it comes to faucet finishes then? Abapo counts lasting strength and a style that fits your aesthetic.
“Durability is of course a major factor, since bathroom faucets, be it sink or bath, should be able to withstand regular use and perform consistently with minimal maintenance,” she points out. “The other key thing is being able to enhance the overall bathroom design you have. The faucet finish you choose will help establish the mood of your space.”
Finishes are a big enough deal that the global leader in bathroom and kitchen design and innovation offers a wide range of faucet finishes from its popular Kohler Finish Program. These options feature everything from matte black to warm gold and cool polished chrome that can coordinate across all bath and shower faucets, accessories and hardware.
The best part is that they use Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) technology, a process that bonds the finish and faucet together at a molecular level. That and the addition of a nickel undercoating result in
a sturdy, scratch-, tarnish-, and corrosionresistant surface.
PVD technology and the nickel undercoating enhance the color integrity of the faucets and give them a rich lustrous surface for lasting beauty.
Kohler has even introduced two new additions to its Finish Program. Vibrant Brushed Rose Gold exudes quiet luxury with its earthy hue that lends a tasteful touch to a wide variety of interior styles. The Vibrant Brushed Titanium finish with its deep, rich tone of light gray to deeper charcoal projects strength and sophistication.
While it can sit with most of the same hues as stainless steel, chrome and nickel, it gives off a more contemporary look. It pairs well with warmer and lighter wood colors like ash and oak, and works seamlessly with ultra-modern blacks, charcoal and deep-colored marble, especially where neutrals are mixed with dark, rich finishes.
More information can be found at www.kohler.ph.
B8 Thursday, March 20, 2025
mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph
Editor: Jun Lomibao
Uyking up front after an eagle-2 in 1st round of Jr World qualifiers
JOHANNA UYKING delivered a stunning eagle on the challenging No. 18 to cap off a roller-coaster round while grabbing the lead in the girls’ 13-14 division of the USwing Mojing Junior World Qualifying at The Country Club (TCC) in the City of Santa Rosa on Wednesday. Despite struggling in the demanding windy conditions, Uyking leaned on her exceptional driving to card a 77 for a two-shot advantage over Precious Zaragosa, who settled for a 79.
“I drove the ball pretty straight today, which helped a lot,” said the 13-year-old Uyking, a student at Davao Christian High School. It was her spectacular 3-wood approach from 190 yards into a headwind on the par-four 18th that proved to be the highlight as the ball found the hole for an eagle-2.
Uyking’s round was far from perfect—it was marred by six bogeys and a double bogey on the tight par-4 fourth, but a birdie on No. 8 and her miraculous eagle on 18 kept her ahead.
“I’ll be working on my chipping and putting to avoid giving myself a hard time in the next two rounds,” she said. Zaragosa, last year’s Junior Philippine Golf Tour (JPGT) Match Play
Let the elections begin!
NCIENT OLYMPIA, Greece—Seven candidates in the International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidential election came to the most sacred Olympic site on Tuesday, two days before the contest to elect a new leader.
R ain at Ancient Olympia meant the ceremonial opening of the fourday meeting could not take place at the Temple of Hera where the Olympic flame is lit before each Summer Games and Winter Games edition.
Thursday’s election is at a high-end resort hotel by the Ionian Sea. Instead, the candidates were joined under a nearby tented cover with all their colleagues in the 109-strong IOC membership , which votes in perhaps the most discreet and opaquely
MPTC Tour of Luzon-Cardinal Santos MC partnership
SBy Josef Ramos
AFETY and quick medical care get top priority in the summer revival of the fabled Tour of Luzon following the partnership forged by organizers DuckWorld PH and Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC) with Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC).
CSMC p resident and CEO Raul C. Pagdanganan signed the memorandum of agreement with DuckWorld chairman John Patrick Gregorio during the official partnership ceremony held at the Philippine Center for Advanced Surgery of CSMC recently.
campaigned of sports elections.
Greece and Greek civilization have given the world two wonderful gifts— democracy and the Olympic Games,” said IOC President Thomas Bach, who has reached the maximum 12 years in office and formally leaves in June.
The three strongest contenders seem to be World Athletics leader Sebastian Coe, Zimbabwe sports minister Kirsty Coventry and IOC vice president Juan Antonio Samaranch.
Coe and Coventry are twotime Olympic champions—in track and swimming, respectively— and Samaranch is the longest-serving IOC member of the seven. The Spanish financier joined in 2001 when his father, also Juan Antonio Samaranch, left after 21 years as president.
Coventry would be the first woman and first African leader in the IOC’s 131-year history. She has long been seen as Bach’s favored successor, giving her a solid base of votes though likely not decisive in the first round of voting.
Also standing are Prince Feisal al Hussein of Jordan, a member of the IOC executive board, and three presidents of sports governing bodies: skiing’s Johan Eliasch, who is also a billionaire sportswear brand owner; cycling’s David Lappartient; and Morinari Watanabe of gymnastics.
The winner Thursday must get an absolute majority of votes. Until then, the candidate with the fewest votes in each round will be eliminated. The term of office is eight years.
IOC voters invited into the exclusive club are a global mix of royal family members, former lawmakers and diplomats, business leaders, sports officials and Olympic athletes.
C hallenges facing the next president include steering the Olympic movement toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, maintaining political balance with the United Nations and working with US President Donald Trump, as well as protecting women’s sports AP
champion, also managed an eagle on the par-5 eighth but struggled with four bogeys in her first five holes at the front. A closing bogey on No. 9 pushed her two strokes behind Uyking. Twins Lisa and Mona Sarines remained within striking distance with rounds of 80 and 82, respectively, while Kendra Garingalao and Tiffany Bernardino found themselves needing a major comeback after posting 89 and 94, respectively.
T he boys’ competition was just as intenseas Ralph Batican showcased steady composure in the boys’ 13-14 category for a 77 and a three-stroke lead over David Teves (80) in the three-day event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc.
“I focused on visualizing my shots, and that really helped,” said Batican, who rebounded from five back-nine bogeys with an even-par 36 on the front. “The wind made things difficult, so I had to be extra careful with club selection.” Zianbeau Edoc followed with an 82, while Lujo Gomez and Mico Ungco posted identical 84s. In the boys’ 15-18 division, Emilio Hernandez emerged as the early frontrunner, firing a 75 to secure a twoshot lead over Patrick Tambalque (77).
High5 program extends support to futsal leagues
O“This partnership enables us to apply our expertise that will not only help in responding to health and safety needs of the athletes and participants, but more so aid in the athletes’ optimal condition to compete,” Pagdanganan said. We are dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for every participant, and our alliance with a trusted medical services partner enables us to respond swiftly and effectively to any health emergency,” Gregorio said. The agreement will ensure the health and safety of all cyclists and members of the Tour entourage during the eight-stage bikathon that will kick off in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, on April 24 and finish at Camp John Hay in Baguio City on May 1. CSMC will specifically provide top-notch medical services throughout the fabled multi-stage cycling Tour, offering on-site emergency care, first aid stations, transport services and immediate response teams.
“The intensity of this race will push to the limit, and we want to make sure everyone is properly supported and cared for,’’ added Perez. With 105 riders from 15 participating teams, the opening stage is an out-and-back 180-kilometer course in Paoay followed by a team trial trial race in Stage 2 (60 kilometers) going to Vigan, Ilocos Sur.
The third stage takes the cyclists to San Juan, La Union (135kms) before pedaling 150kms from Agoo, La Union to Clark in Stage 4.
Also gracing the contract signing were MPTC Tour of Luzon project director Dean Francis Diaz and CSMC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Antonio S. Say.
“This MOA with the Cardinal Santos Medical Center is a testament to the commitment of the MVP Group in seeing the MPTC Tour of Luzon 2025 properly conducted,” MPTC Chief Regulatory Officer Arrey Perez said.
Drama of volleyball
IS volleyball stealing the thunder away from basketball as the nation’s favorite spectator sport?
It certainly looks that way if you look at the huge numbers that flock to the sports arenas for a marquee-level volleyball game, be it in the amateur leagues or the pros.
L ast Sunday, the Araneta Coliseum was packed to the rafters for the end-of-first-round showdown between last season’s finals protagonists—the National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs and the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Tigresses—in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
Collegiate volleyball fans had to wait 10 full months to get the rematch they were waiting for. This Season 87 showdown between the fiercest rivals from Sampaloc was finally an opportunity to: 1) exact revenge (if you were for UST), 2) be reassured about superiority (if you were for NU), or 3) just get some kind of closure (if you were a level-headed, trying to be objective fan).
So the UST crowd made sure it would be there with a great intimidating presence, thanks to their bright yellow hotdog balloons and tiger roars of “Go Uste!” The loud and
CSMC is a partner of choice for the revival of the Tour that ceased its journey in 2020 due to the Covid pandemic since the hospital has a wide range of excellent sports medicine and wellness products and services through its Sports Medicine Institute.
proud NU crowd came prepared too with fan signs, dog howls and their signature ziggy-ziggy-zag dance moves.
T here was no jump seat available for one who did not have a ticket for the games. The Big Dome was packed full, with large-scale wars going on simultaneously in the stands and on the taraflex.
Gate attendance for the NU-UST women’s volleyball game alone was 12,790. Add to that the total attendance for the day to include the men’s game between NU and UST and the men’s and women’s set-to between Adamson University and the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons, and the total game day attendance would be 14,921. Not bad for the 16,500-capacity site of the Thrilla In Manila.
Volleyball can really fill up the Araneta Coliseum now,” said a fan I happened to overhear that day. It sure can. The NU-UST women’s game was a separately ticketed event, which means the 12,790 who came to watch that game was made up only, or mostly, of NU-UST fans.
Women’s volleyball actually made a killing on Opening Day of the UAAP’s 87th Season. The NU-De La Salle University women’s game had a gate attendance of 16,624.
W hat makes volleyball tick? Apart from the awesome athleticism on display when the athletes—men and women—do their thing like airborne acrobats or play physical chess with each other, there is a lot of color and
VIC HERMANS (left) and Danny Moran team up for the development of futsal in the country.
RGANIZERS of the High5 Futsal Men’s and Women’s Leagues affirmed their commitment to discover and develop fresh talents who will soon represent the country in major international competitions.
In a press briefing at the Amici Italian Restaurant in Greenhills on Wednesday, High5 chief organizer Danny Moran said they remain committed to serve as the primary platform for those who are looking to improve their skills by testing their mettle against the best futsal players in the country.
In fact, most of the members of the very successful Pinay5 Futsal Club were products of the High5 program, proving that the prestigious inter-club leagues are the breeding grounds of the best Filipino futsal players.
A former member of the national men’s football team, Moran is the chairman of the Henry V. Moran Foundation, the organization that has been helping the development of futsal in the country for the past 10 years.
drama in volleyball. Besides the cruel kills, the death-defying digs and the mindful drop balls that say “touché” in volleyball-speak, the stare-downs, the glares, the leers and the whole “Taray Package” that volleyball ladies display when they get a point off their opponents are to-die-for moments in volleyball watching. S ome do it with a smile and a remarkable sense of equanimity, like Lady Spiker Shevana Laput. Some quickly morph from fun-girl to fierce warrior when they want to deliver a killer point—like Angel Canino. UST’s Angge Poyos does it with a poker-faced, no-nonsense kill. NU’s
He spearheaded the establishment of the High5 Leagues as well as the formation of the Pinay5 Futsal Club— the first ever professional futsal club in the country.
“The High5 Futsal Men’s and Women’s Leagues represents the highest level of futsal in the country today as it features top clubs and universities,” Moran said. “Now in their fourth year, the High5 Leagues are also the longest-running futsal leagues in Southeast Asia.” A side from Moran, also present during the press briefing were Dutch coach Vic Hermans, who serves as Director for Sports of the Henry V. Moran Foundation, as well as key players Demely Rollon, Agot Danton, Isabella Bandoja, Jada Bicierro, Lanie Ortillo, Mykaella Abeto and Kaycee Nañola. Tuloy FC, a club composed of lessfortunate players, has
