gross borrowings fell to P745.142 billion year-on-year in the first quarter, as domestic debt dropped even as external liabilities more than doubled, according to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr).
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
MILAN, Italy—The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is increasing its financing for food and nutrition security in Asia and the Pacific to $40 billion by 2030 as more people struggle with surging food prices and the threats of climate change.
In a briefing on the 58th Annual Meeting here on Sunday, ADB President Masato Kanda said this is a $26-billion increase from the $14 billion average between 2022 and 2025.
Kanda said this is a timely measure given that the spike in food prices has been forcing families to choose between spending for meals and non-food items like transportation.
“This [high prices] is forcing people to choose meal for their families or transport. The second thing is food production needs job cre-
ation, the agriculture and food systems employs 40 percent of the regional workforce,” Kanda said during the briefing. “The third thing is, food is depleting the environment, harming the biodiversity...we need to change the way [we] produce food [that is also healthy for the planet].”
Kanda said the increase in financing from ADB will help feed 270 million people in the region and increase food production and agriculture-linked jobs.
Food as chunk of CPI
IN the Philippines, food accounts for 34.78 percent of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for All Income Households and 51.38 percent of the index for Bottom 30 percent of households or the poorest Filipinos. Transportation, meanwhile, accounts for 9.03 percent of the All Income Household CPI
and 6.12 percent of the CPI for the poorest 30 percent of households.
Last year, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said jobs in the country’s agriculture sector accounted for one in every four jobs in December 2023. The DA said 24.4 percent of the 50.5 million employed in December were in the agriculture sector, or around 12.3 million Filipinos.
“This expanded support will help countries alleviate hunger, improve diets, and protect the natural environment, while providing opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses. It will drive change across the entire food value chain, from how food is grown and processed to how it is distributed and consumed,” Kanda said.
Through the increase in financing, ADB will also establish the Natural Capital Fund—a planned $150-million blended finance vehi-
cle—with
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
Company (Meralco) is worried that the country’s target of having its first nuclear power plant up and running by 2032, with an initial capacity of 1,200 megawatts (MW), might be pushed back because a bill seeking to create a nuclear regulatory framework has yet to be approved by Congress.
“We’re running out of time. Hopefully, the bill will be passed already with the Senate by June and any delay in the enactment of the bill will definitely cause a major backlog in terms of meeting that target,” said Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie Aperocho.
He was referring to the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, better known as the PhilATOM bill. The House of Representatives has already approved the bill on its third and final reading. However, the legislative measure is still undergoing Senate deliberations. Under the Department of En-
ergy’s (DOE) Clean Energy Scenario (CES) 1, the 1,200 MW potential installed capacity for nuclear by 2032 is forecast to have additional 1,200 MW capacity by 2035 and another 2,400 MW by 2050. Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Raphael Lotilla said the push for nuclear is meant to diversify the country’s energy sources to ensure a more stable and secure energy supply. “Even in the nuclear energy sector, a stronger regulatory framework is needed, clearly defining the allocation of risks between government and the private sector,” Lotilla added.
Aperocho said it takes about 10 years to build a nuclear power facility and without the PhilATOM bill, Meralco’s efforts could be limited to training its nuclear scholars. “The government is really a big partner, a major stakeholder. That’s where we are; without the PhilATOM bill I think all we could do is to somehow conduct feasibility studies, train our people. The major development is the enactment of the PhilATOM bill. I think there
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
DESPITE offering over 260,000 job vacancies nationwide, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) recorded a low turnout in its recent Labor Day job fair.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma confirmed on Sunday that only around 37,200 jobseekers registered during the May 1 event—just 14.30 percent of the total job opportunities made available. Of those who registered, only 5,782 were hired on the spot.
The department had partnered with 2,550 local and overseas
employers across 70 job fair sites nationwide.
Laguesma said the top on-thespot hires were for positions such as production operators, production workers, cashiers, service crew, bag gers, teachers, housekeeping staff, store clerks, and sales associates.
He earlier said DOLE aims to in crease its “hired-on-the-spot” rate in future fairs to show the competitiveness of Filipino jobseekers.
“When many are hired on the spot, it proves that we have a lot of qualified applicants. I also urge employers not to make the questions too difficult—some of them may just be nervous,” Laguesma said in
a press briefing.
Meanwhile in terms of skills training, Laguesma added that DOLE, through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, were able to assist in the upskilling and reskilling of 1,968 jobseekers.
“[There are] around 260 jobseekers who availed of livelihood assistance,” Laguesma added.
To improve employment services, the secretary confirmed that DOLE is now planning to hold monthly job fairs, following the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“We will have follow-up job fairs on a monthly basis as directed by PBBM. For June 12 Independence Day, we will hold another nationwide job fair,” Laguesma told reporters in a text message.
CBCP defends Cardinal Tagle on clergy abuse cases
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THECatholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has defended Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle’s handling of clergy abuse cases following renewed international scrutiny of his record.
in a statement.
Aside from the PA and the PMC, other participating Filipino military units include the AFP Special Operations Command, Marine Reservists, and the Air Force (PAF) who all worked closely alongside US counterparts.
“This live-fire drill demonstrated the precision and combat readiness of allied forces and reinforced their shared resolve to protect strategic coastal areas and uphold maritime security in the Indo-Pacific Region,” the AFP also said.
In a statement on Saturday, the CBCP clarified that Tagle no longer holds jurisdiction over any diocese in the Philippines since his appointment to a full-time post in the Roman Curia.
“Consequently, he is not involved in the governance or disciplinary matters of Philippine dioceses. The responsibility for addressing allegations of misconduct by clergy rests with the respective diocesan bishops or religious superiors,” the CBCP said
ADB…
Continued from A1
The clarification came after USbased advocacy group BishopAccountability.org criticized both Tagle and Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin—two of the frontrunners to succeed Pope Francis—for their alleged silence on clerical abuse.
The group specifically pointed to the lack of published guidelines on sexual abuse cases during Tagle’s tenure as Archbishop of Manila, saying they were not available on the web -
However, Zhang said the way that the financing will be extended as loans and grants will depend on the project to be financed. For agricultural variation projects, he said, these will most likely be extended as loans
sites of the Archdiocese of Manila or the CBCP.
“If Cardinal Tagle cannot even get his brother bishops from his home country to publish guidelines, what on earth can we expect for him to achieve as pope of a global church?” said Anne Barrett Doyle, co-director of BishopAccountability.org.
The CBCP, however, asserted that even before his assignment to Rome, Tagle “actively participated” in developing and implementing pastoral protocols on clergy misconduct.
“He has consistently advocated for a humble and responsive Church that listens to the cries of the wounded and acts decisively to protect the vulnerable,” the bishops said.
According to the CBCP, national guidelines for handling abuse cases have been in place since September 2003. They also pointed to the estab -
because these can generate revenue.
But for the natural capital investment, Zhang said there must be some grant financing provided together with a loan to catalyze the investment.
“So, very much dependent on the nature of the project. But again, as I say, ADB is not just an open loan on this type of new initiative. We work together with the GCF, Global Climate Fund, because this is actually so critical,” Zhang said.
The $26 billion in additional funding announced today will consist of $18.5 billion in direct ADB support for governments and $7.5 billion in private sector investments.
By 2030, ADB aims for private sector investments to account for more than 27 percent of the total $40-billion program—underscoring the critical role of the private sector in driving food systems transformation.
ADB said the financing will help fund the entire food production process—from farming and processing to distribution and consumption.
Through financing and policy support for governments and companies, the program aims to help Asia and the Pacific generate diverse and nutritious food, create jobs, re-
Continued from A1
Meanwhile, the remaining 39.51 percent in external borrowings more than doubled to P294.342 billion in the first three months of the year.
This is higher by 151.02 percent year-on-year from P117.257 billion.
For March alone, total gross borrowings amounted to P192.450 billion, down by 7.14 percent from P207.265 billion in the same month last year.
Domestic borrowings are slightly higher at P157.800 billion in March 2025 from P156.395 billion in March 2024.
Bulk of domestic borrowings, or P132.4 billion, was raised through fixed-rate Treasury bonds, while P25.4 billion came from the sale of Treasury bills.
External borrowings in March, meanwhile, decreased by 31.88 percent year-on-year to P34.650 billion from P50.870 billion.
Of the amount, P28.911 billion was brought about by program loans, while project loans added P5.738 billion to the government’s external borrowings for the month.
Ateneo de Manila University economist Leonardo A. Lanzona told BusinessMirror the government is borrowing more from foreign lenders as United States bond prices declined as a result of the Trump administration’s pro -
lishment of the Office for the Protection of Minors and Vulnerable Persons, which is currently led by Pampanga Archbishop Florentino G. Lavarias.
The office, the bishops said, promotes “best practices” in safeguarding measures within Church institutions.
“Each diocese in the Philippines is mandated to establish its own office dedicated to the protection of minors and vulnerable adults, ensuring that every Church institution becomes a safe space for all,” the CBCP added.
The bishops also assured the public that the Church remains committed to protecting the vulnerable and pursuing accountability within its ranks.
“We continue to seek guidance from the Holy See and collaborate with civil authorities to ensure that justice is served and that the Church becomes a beacon of hope and safety for all,” they added.
duce environmental impacts, and promote resilient agricultural supply chains.
“Unprecedented droughts, floods, extreme heat, and degraded natural resources are undermining agricultural production, while at the same time threatening food security and rural livelihoods,” Kanda also said. Overall, the increased financing program will modernize agricultural value chains to improve access to affordable and healthy food for vulnerable populations.
It will also invest in improving soil quality and conserving biodiversity—essential elements for productive agriculture—that are increasingly under threat from climate change, pollution, and the loss of land and aquatic ecosystems. The program will support the development of digital technology and analytics to improve decision-making for farmers, agribusinesses, and policymakers.
ADB said more than half of the world’s undernourished people live in developing Asia. Biodiversity loss and malnutrition are straining food systems, which account for 70 percent of global water use, 50 percent of habitable land, and 80 percent of biodiversity loss. Food systems also employ 40 percent of the region’s workforce.
posed tariffs.
“One strategy is to have more foreign currency to exploit the higher bond yields from the increased tariffs and US Federal Reserve tightening, which raises interest rates from these bonds,” Lanzona said.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said the global bond issuance in February could be part of hedging borrowing amid market volatility due to Trump’s higher import tariffs to front-load some borrowings as a matter of prudence.
While the overall proportion still favors the domestic loans, Lanzona said relative increases or growth in foreign borrowings are rising and may continue to rise.
“If this strategy lowers the debt of the country, then more funds can be available for development,” Lanzona said.
“Of course, this is all speculation and could be means of coping with the uncertainties caused by the proposed US tariffs,” he added.
This year, the government will follow an 80:20 borrowing mix to reduce its exposure to foreign exchange risks.
About P2.037 trillion will be raised domestically while P507.408 billion will come from external sources.
Outstanding debt of the national government reached a new high of P16.632 trillion as of end-February, 9.57 percent higher year-onyear from P15.178 trillion.
have been representations already to the President to somehow accelerate the enactment of the bill,” said the Meralco official.
Meralco launched in 2023 its Filipino Scholars and Interns on Nuclear Engineering (FISSION) program. Since then, five scholars under the program were sent off and are currently studying at the Harbin Engineering University in China and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in the United States. Upon completion of the program, the scholars will be reintegrated into Meralco and will be assigned to take on roles in its nuclear initiatives.
“We’re sending another seven scholars at the opening of the academic classes...And we also signed this agreement with EDF [Electricité de France SA] of France, basically for the technical feasibility study. I think it’s very, very important because [in] building a power plant in the Philippines, basically public acceptance will be an issue,” he said. Under the two-year memorandum of cooperation (MOC), EDF will provide technical and strategic support to Meralco for a feasibility study focused on site activities, power system integration, and the economic viability of nuclear power in the country’s energy mix.
EDF will also deliver customized training sessions on nuclear reactor technology and nuclear project management. Also, the French electric utility company will extend assistance and services to Meralco to implement a potential nuclear energy program in the country. They will also work together to seek funding, including from the French government, to support nuclear adoption in the Philippines. Meralco is keen on putting up small nuclear power plants, with a capacity range of 300 MW to 400MW, in the Philippines. “We’re monitoring this ongoing construction of the first of a kind SMR [small modular reactors] in Romania. They claim that they can get this up running by 2030, and once the target is met. definitely all of the other interested companies like us would be looking into the performance of these firstof- a-kind SMRs. if that proves to be okay, definitely we’re lining up,” said Aperocho.
Aside from FISSION, Meralco launched last week its Nuclear Energy Strategic Transition (NEST) program. “This is our internal program to assess what it would take to responsibly put up a nuclear power plant in the Philippines,” Meralco Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Manuel V. Pangilinan said. The program adopts a multitrack approach to evaluate all viable pathways for nuclear power deployment in the Philippines. These include initiating large-scale greenfield projects through partnerships with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), and nuclear operators from France and South Korea; exploring the potential deployment of SMRs in collaboration with the US; and studying the feasibility of rehabilitating the mothballed Bataan Nuclear Power Plant.
“We’re touching base with a number of countries familiar with nuclear energy like France, we signed an agreement two to three weeks ago with EDF with the French ambassador. We’re talking to the US government on how we can get assistance in terms of nuclear energy in this country,” Pangilinan had said.
Domestically, “We need the help of Senate and Congress to set the nuclear framework of the country and of course our regulatory framework as well,” said Pangilinan. NEST will ensure preparedness of Meralco and its customers for the safe, scalable, and responsible integration of nuclear power into the national energy portfolio.
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Lacson eyes revision of Tertiary Education Act
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
IF he makes a successful comeback to the Senate in May, independent senatorial candidate Panfilo M. Lacson wants to review the Free Tertiary Education Act of 2017 to make it more accessible, especially to students from poor families. Lacson said that during the campaign period, he learned of problems with the implementation of the law, including the Commission on Higher Education’s requirement for parents of scholars to pay tuition first and wait for a rebate.
“As we went around the country during the 90-day campaign, we saw problems in the implementation of the law. One is the requirement for some parents to give advance payments, and wait for the rebate. In some cases the CHED is delayed in paying the rebate. In other cases, the rebates do not come at all,” he said.
“This is wrong. The scholarship should be available and the parents should not be made to give advance payments. We should
revisit this law in the Senate in the exercise of oversight,” he added. Lacson also said he will look for ways to make the requirements for the Free Tertiary Education Act more accessible for the poor.
He cited the setup in Pangasinan where the local government’s scholarship program had “lower” standards, with the intention of allowing students from poor families to earn their diplomas and qualify for work.
Also, Lacson pushed for giving scholars “second chance” to meet the requirements of their scholarships instead of kicking them out outright.
“Perhaps the scholars had a reason for not meeting the requirements. The scholars could be given a chance to retake the exams, but let’s not take away their scholarships outright,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lacson also reiterated he will make sure the education sector—the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, and state colleges and universities—get the highest priority in the national budget, as mandated by our Constitution.
Jobs creation, food security remain top priorities of Go
SEN. Christopher Go reaffirmed his continued push for job creation and food security—longstanding pillars of his legislative work—underscoring the urgent need to support Filipino workers and farmers through concrete and sustained efforts. Go had already filed and supported several measures aimed at improving the lives of workers and agricultural communities—sectors he has consistently called the backbone of the nation.
Among the key measures he pushed is Senate Bill 2534, which he co-authored and co-sponsored, proposing a P100 daily
wage hike for private sector employees. Go explained that the measure seeks to relieve the financial strain caused by inflation and to boost the purchasing power of ordinary workers.
To address unemployment, particularly in rural and disaster-prone areas, Go filed Senate Bill 420 or the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP), offering temporary jobs to displaced and seasonal workers. He also filed Senate Bill 1707 to ensure fair pay and protection for social workers, citing See “Go,” A4
Freshly Brewed
House to focus on job creation, food security
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE leadership of the House of Representatives on Sunday vowed to address the critical issues of job creation and food security, a commitment reinforced by the findings of a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez made the statement after the SWS survey, commissioned by the Stratbase Group and conducted from April 11 to 14, 2025, revealed that a significant 93 percent of Filipinos would cast their votes for candidates who prioritize increased job opportunities and agricultural development to ensure food security.
“The survey confirms our legislative direction, a direction we have been proactively pursuing in the past months and years,” Romualdez said, noting that, over the past two years, the House has shepherded a suite of laws that collectively strengthen
the country’s job engine.
He highlighted the House’s legislative achievements over the past two years, which collectively aim to strengthen the country’s job market. These include the enactment of Republic Act 11962, the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act, which established a National Employment Master Plan to align education and training with industry demands. Republic Act 11966, the PublicPrivate Partnership Code of 2023, was also passed to streamline PPP approvals and attract large-scale investments.
The digital economy received a boost with the passage of Republic Act 11967, the Internet Transactions Act, which created an E-Commerce Bureau to protect online consumers and sellers. For local entrepreneurs, Republic Act 11960, the One Town, One Product Philippines Act, institutionalized support for micro-, small-, and medium-enterprises (MSMEs).
“All these laws, when combined, create
a comprehensive ecosystem that opens up more opportunities for decent jobs,” Romualdez explained.
On the food security front, the House implemented both long-term reforms and immediate relief measures. Republic Act 11953, the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, condoned P57.56 billion in land amortization arrears for 610,054 agrarian reform beneficiaries. Additionally, Republic Act 12078, signed in December 2024, extended the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund to 2031 and tripled its annual allocation to P30 billion.
“Through the condonation law and the strengthened Rice Fund, we are providing farmers with real capital, not just hope,” Romualdez said. “When they harvest more and cheaper, we all save at the market.”
To address food affordability, the House supports the executive-led P20 Rice Program, which aims to make rice affordable for low-income families. “The House
of Representatives is fully committed to sustaining and expanding the recently launched P20 Rice Program nationwide,” Romualdez added.
He also aligned the House’s efforts with the Alyansa ng Bagong Pilipinas candidates’ platforms, which prioritize livelihoods, support for farmers and fishers, and workers’ welfare.
Looking ahead, Romualdez revealed that the 20th Congress will focus on passing pending measures to further strengthen the job market and ensure food supply resilience, including bills to support MSMEs, promote agrarian innovation, and improve workers’ rights.
“This survey is a validation of the path we are already forging—one that leads to decent work, affordable food, and an economy that truly serves all,” Romualdez said. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to legislative actions that uplift the lives of every Filipino.”
Court orders forfeiture of ₧189-M assets of shuttered Clark Pogo hub
By Ashley Manabat
CLARK Freeport—A Makati court has ordered the forfeiture of over P189 million in assets seized from a raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (Pogo) hub in Clark Freeport, Pampanga, nearly two years after a major crackdown on illegal activities in this free port.
Assets seized from Colorful and Leap Group, a subsidiary of CGC Technologies Inc., which operated at the Clark Sun Valley Hub were ordered forfeited in favor of the government by th Regional Trial Court
AIM’s Jeffrey Pintor: In bank marketing, ‘Trust is the most important currency’
By Francine Medina
The Philippine banking system has remained resilient and experiencing a steady growth despite the external challenges affecting the economy. To further strengthen its presence and forge stability, the sector has partnered with the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) to develop the Bank Marketing Academy.
with AIM and the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP). The collaboration was launched.
“The mandate stems from the mere fact that BMAP recognized that a lot of the bank marketing professionals in the Philippines are basically learning on the job. So, while yes, you have the fundamentals of marketing in school, once you reach the workplace, it’s totally different,” he explained.
in Makati.
The facility was raided on May 4, 2023, based on six search warrants issued by Branch 81 of the RTC in the City of Malolos, for alleged violations of the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act and the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), in coordination with law enforcement agencies, led the successful prosecution that resulted in the forfeiture order issued by Branch 148 of the RTC in Makati.
Government authorities said the group
was involved in human trafficking and cyber-enabled fraud, including romance scams and fake cryptocurrency investments, under the guise of offshore gaming.
The raid led to the rescue of 1,137 foreigners and 129 Filipinos, many of whom were reportedly forced into online scams, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (Paocc) reported.
“The forfeiture of these illicit assets and the decisive regulatory actions by the Clark Development Corporation convey a formidable message: the government will not permit its territories to serve as safe
havens for organized crime,” Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, Paocc chief, said.
“We shall persist in our efforts to pursue and dismantle these criminal enterprises through coordinated, relentless enforcement and legal measures,” Cruz added. Authorities also seized vaults containing cash in differebt currencies, including P187.8 million, US$1.7 million, and other foreign currencies such as Chinese yuan, Vietnamese dong, and Thai baht. The Clark Development Corporation
product, which is the program’s module 2 and that touches more on what is retail banking.
What are the different banking solutions and what is the best position that will meet the needs of customers,” said Pintor.
In the latest episode of “Freshly Brewed,” BusinessMirror’s digital talk show, host and finance reporter Reine Juvierre Alberto talks to Jeremy Pintor, the newly appointed executive director of AIM’s School of Executive Education and Lifelong Learning (SEELL), on the future of banking in the country. Before joining AIM, Pintor was connected for six years with Viventis Search Asia, a human capital solutions firm offering recruitment and staffing, talent management and development, and digital recruitment platforms. His experience in the company gives him the perspective of helping organizations find talent while providing individuals to kickstart their career path. Pintor’s expertise is sparking fresh energy at AIM. “The AIM is a very reputable educational institution. In the Philippines, it holds a very distinct positioning,” Pintor told Alberto. He added that AIM is likewise the first and only school in the country that has received an accreditation from the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). In the field of executive education, AIM’s SEELL, has a very distinct position of being sixth in Asia and actually 70th in the world. And I think those are remarkable traits that make AIM a very reputable organization.”
Among the first order of business in his new post is to lead the execution and direction of the Bank Marketing Academy (BMA), a partnership
Bank marketing focuses on creating branding strategies that would boost customer engagement, mentioned Pintor, “Bank marketing enjoys a unique field because not only does one need to be creative, which is the default of a marketer, but you have to navigate a highly regulated industry such as banking and financial institutions. And that is a very powerful purpose that attracted AIM to partner with BMAP.”
In this particular partnership, SEELL aims to broaden views, Pintor added, “Our goal is not just to elevate the bank marketing professional in the Philippines, but at the same time to provide fresh perspectives that are truly global.
“We want to capitalize on BMAP’s purpose and, at the same time, capitalize on AIM’s reputation and brand of providing case study methodology and different approaches to learning to create an exciting blend of executive education.”
BMA Programs 1 and 2: Making an impact
In June, BMA will launch Bank Marketing Professional (BMP) 1, the first of two programs lined up by the AIM-BMAP partnership.
Bank Marketing Professional Program 1 tackles the basics of bank marketing in a regulatory setting, basic banking solutions and products.
Meanwhile, Bank Marketing Professional Program 2 will be an advance course in bank marketing. It is for professionals with at least five years of experience in the field and want to upgrade their practice by updating their knowledge on reputation, risk management, and marketing analytics.
“A lot of things are changing in the Philippines. In the field of finance, for instance, a lot of institutions are relying more on digital inclusion. If we try to look at the relevant key figures and
statistics that have been happening throughout, probably the last five years, we’ve been harping on financial inclusion. It remains a challenge but if you look at its progress over the past 10 years, it has grown by 10%. I think we’re now reaching close to about 45 to 46% (in growth),” he said.
Alberto likewise cited a September 2024 report stating that digital related transactions has bridged to 50+ percent compared to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) target of just 50 percent.
“All these amount to a very important realization that that sector is emerging. If you look into the field of marketing, it is also evolving. In digital marketing, too, among its elements is being able to venture more into relationshipbased marketing. (There is) a lot of authenticity. Sometimes, some of your biggest traditional marketing channels no longer work. We’re heavily relying more on influencers and right now, even influencers are being challenged by a second wave of new things coming in.”
“Both of these fields are evolving. So, we try to capture those levels of innovation and challenges into the program that we’ve created for marketing professionals who ‘d like to venture into bank or financial marketing.”
For both BMP Program 1 and Program 2, the BMA will have a balance between the expertise of the two partner organizations.
According to Pintor, the BMP Program 1 will have four modules: The first module will be marketing fundamentals applied in a bank industry setting. It will include how to create a very effective marketing strategy, marketing insights, and setting clear marketing goals. The pioneering faculty team will consist of professors who are from different fields and specialize in marketing.
If the first module touches more on the marketing fundamentals, the second module tackles the intricacies of the banking system. “Marketing, is making sure we understand our customers, which is the essence of module 1. Basically, it’s also about understanding the
Module 3, on the other hand, centers on bank regulations. Pintor explained, “If you are venturing into marketing for the financial sector, it will be a disservice not to know the regulations for banks.
What’s unique about bank marketing professionals is that they need, first and foremost, to understand compliance. So, that’s what module 3 is all about.”
Module 4 ties in Modules 1 to 3 and gives students a broad perspective of the state and policies in bank marketing.
Among the top-level professors of the academy are Prof. Jose Vicente L. Camus who has held top positions in various banks. His expertise includes Corporate Finance, Mergers and Acquisition, Project Finance, Corporate, Retail and Consumer Banking, Financial Product Development, Impact First Investments, and Financial Risk.
Another distinguished AIM faculty member who will be part of BMA is Stephanie B. Guerrero, the Harvard-educated lecturer specializes in Brand Management, Digital Marketing, Customer Marketing, and Portfolio/Category Management.
BMAP will also introduce their own colleagues who are seasoned and well-respected in the banking community.
“We believe that the education sector is changing. Most of the content are bite-sized. So, similarly, we don’t want to drag topics that can be taught in amore impactful way, which is why we’re mixing it with methodologies such as case studies and action-learning projects to make sure learning resonates and grounds students with less time in the classroom.
“That’s one of the things I like about AIM. The school tries to marry the traditional world of teaching while making sure that the methodology of teaching is robust, up-to-date, and even global in approach. It’s a very exciting thing,” Pintor stated.
Investment in the future Under AIM’s SEELL, these new bank marketing programs are non-certificate courses that aim to bring added knowledge and upskill professionals already involved with bank marketing or those who are exploring this aspect of banking and finance. Meanwhile, according to Pintor, creating certificate courses in the field are in the pipeline. “We are preparing several lineups (for the BMA). There will be new courses coming up. We hope to roll out our goal for certification this year. BMP Program 1 costs P45,000 and runs for five half-day sessions. Meanwhile, BMP Program 2 P65,000 and runs for 10 days with half-day sessions. Both programs can accommodate up to 25 students. A few slots are still open for those who want to enrol in BMA’s BMP Program 1. Pintor
Jeremy Pintor, Executive Director of Asian Institute of Management's School of Executive Education and Lifelong Learning, talks about the Bank Marketing Academy with BusinessMirror's finance reporter Reine Juvierre Alberto.
Jeremy Pintor, Executive Director of Asian Institute of Management's School of Executive Education and Lifelong Learning BusinessMirror's finance reporter Reine Juvierre Alberto
See “Pogo,” A4
Monday, May 5, 2025
Naia departure area road crash kills 2, injures 4
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
TWO persons including a 5-year-
old girl were killed and several others were injured when a sports utility vehicle crashed through the outer railing of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) Terminal 1 departure level and slammed into a pedestrian walkway on Sunday.
In a social media post, the Philippine Red Cross confirmed the fatalities, which
also included an adult male.
The driver of the vehicle has been taken into custody by the police.
New Naia Infra Corp. (NNIC) the private operator overseeing the airport’s operations, said in a statement those injured are currently receiving medical treatment.
NNIC President Ramon S. Ang expressed sorrow over the incident and vowed to personally shoulder the medical expenses of the injured, as well as provide financial assistance to the families of the deceased.
“This is a very tragic incident. Our
priority now is to make sure the victims and their families receive the support and care they need,” Ang said.
The Department of Health [DOH] said that emergency services and hospitals nearby are responding to the incident.
“We assure you that in accordance with the wishes of President Marcos, any victims of the collision may be admitted to a DOH hospital,” said Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa.
Based on the field reports gathered by the DOH showed that two patients were
Congressman tells PNP to recover Que ransom
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
ALAWMAKER on Sunday urged the National Police (PNP) to exert all efforts to trace and recover the P200 million ransom paid by the family of businessman Anson Que who was kidnapped and killed.
Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel said that recovering the ransom would send a strong message that “criminal acts—no matter how concealed—will not be rewarded, and that the rule of law will prevail over lawlessness.”
“We urge the PNP to deploy every available resource and investigative tool to follow the money trail, hold all perpetrators accountable, and recover the funds illicitly obtained,” Pimentel said.
Pimentel, a senior member of the House
Committee on Public Order and Safety, also warned that failing to trace or reclaim ransom payments risks emboldening criminal syndicates and perpetuating a dangerous cycle of violence and exploitation.
“Our government must send a strong and unambiguous message: crime does not pay, and justice will relentlessly pursue those who threaten public safety,” he stressed.
He added that recovering the funds is not only about delivering justice but also a reaffirmation of the state’s authority.
Pimentel stressed that any recovered amount should be returned to the bereaved Que family, who paid the ransom in a desperate attempt to save their loved one.
“This act of justice and compassion would, in some small way, help ease the burden of their profound loss,” he added.
The PNP earlier disclosed that it had
Endorsements
WITH just days left before the May 12 midterm elections, the senatorial candidates of Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas continue to gain momentum, bolstered by high-profile endorsements and strong regional support.
The 11-man slate, endorsed by President Marcos, is expected to gather in Cebu during the One Cebu Rally on Monday, at the Megadome in Dumanjug.
Hosted by Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia, the event is expected to be attended by thousands of Cebuanos, signaling strong local support for the administration-aligned coalition.
Earlier, Garcia formally endorsed only nine of the 11 Alyansa candidates, with decisions still pending for Sen. Lito Lapid and ACT-CIS Rep. Erwin Tulfo. Agri group endorses 5 senatorial candidates
THE Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (Sinag) meanwhile announced its endorsement of five senatorial candidates, citing their unwavering commitment to the Philippine agriculture sector.
Sinag Chairman Rosendo So said the organization supports incumbent Sens. Imee Marcos and Ramon Revilla Jr., former senator Panfilo Lacson, incumbent Las Piñas Rep. Camille Villar, and former Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Benhur Abalos Jr.
The group said it endorsed the five owing to their having consistently championed the protection of the local agriculture industry and having actively supported crucial legislation, including RA 12022 (Anti-Agricultural Economic
taken to a nearby private hospital.
“Our Health Emergency Management Bureau (HEMB) continues to focus on helping the victims of the incident,” Herbosa assured as he reminded the public to be careful in the streets.
The latest report, the DOH said, indicate that the two patients will be transferred to another private facility for further trauma care. Both hospitals are funded by the DOH Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) program. With Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
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enlisted the help of the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) and other agencies to trace the cryptocurrency payments— totaling P200 million—made in multiple tranches to Que’s captors.
The PNP spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, said tracking the digital money trail may lead authorities to at least two more Chinese nationals suspected of playing key roles in the abduction and murder of Que and his driver, Armanie Pabillo.
Que and Pabillo were last seen on March 29 after leaving the Elison Steel office in Valenzuela City. Their bodies were found on April 9, dumped along a roadside in barangay Macabud, Montalban, Rizal.
Three suspects are already in custody in connection with the case: Chinese national David Tan Liao and Filipino nationals Richardo Austria David and Raymart Catequista.
swamp Alyansa bets
Sabotage Act) and RA 12078 (Rice Tariff Law), which increased farmer allocations to P30 billion annually.
“They have collaborated with Sinag in opposing detrimental policies, such as repeated tariff reductions on rice, pork, and chicken,” the group said in a statement.
In addition, the group said, the five have supported the establishment of the First Border Facility, a vital measure against agricultural smuggling.
Their platforms of strengthening food security, combating smuggling, and revitalizing the livestock and poultry sectors aligns with the groups vision, the statement said.
Santos-Recto endorsement IN Batangas City, actress and former governor Vilma Santos-Recto and Finance Secretary Ralph Recto hosted the Alyansa senatorial candidates for a campaign sortie, where they publicly endorsed the entire slate last Saturday.
Santos-Recto, who is seeking a return to the Batangas Capitol, emphasized the need for unity and continued collaboration after the elections.
“May 12 is just one day. What matters is what comes after. Let’s all continue to work as a team and as a family,” she told the candidates and supporters.
The Rectos notably expressed strong support for Tulfo, citing his contributions as former Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), particularly in Batangas and the Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) region.
Ralph Recto highlighted Tulfo’s role in
establishing DSWD Field Office IV-A in Lipa City, which expanded access to critical social services in the area.
Former Senator Manny Pacquiao, making a senatorial comeback, also received formal endorsement from Santos-Recto during the Batangas rally. She praised his “heart for the poor” and advocacy for livelihood, free housing, and youth empowerment.
Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. likewise earned Santos-Recto’s endorsement during the same rally. Their alliance, rooted in both their entertainment and political careers, resonated with local supporters and signaled a united front in Batangas politics.
Other Alyansa candidates present during the sortie included former DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos, Makati Mayor Abby Binay, Senator Tol Tolentino, and former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III.
JIL backs five
THE Jesus Is Lord (JIL) Church, led by Cibac Rep. Eddie Villanueva, has officially endorsed five senatorial candidates— bolstering Christian support for their respective bids.
The endorsement follows a statement from Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, who earlier revealed that the JIL leadership was in the process of vetting several aspirants. Among those selected were former senator Manny Pacquiao, former Senate President Vicente Sotto III, former senator Francis Pangilinan, former senator Panfilo Lacson, and incumbent Sen. Pia Cayetano.
According to the JIL Executive Selection Committee, candidates were chosen based on “stringent criteria rooted in Christian values,” with a focus on integrity, justice, and righteousness.
Meanwhile, public endorsements continue to play a crucial role in shaping voter opinion. Vice Ganda, one of the country’s most prominent entertainers, recently declared her support for Abalos. In a short video posted on her official Facebook page, Vice Ganda—real name Jose Marie Viceral—declared, “Better him than the useless ones getting into the Top 12. I’m going with him…” The post, which
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(CDC) confirmed
their vital role during emergencies.
Recognizing shifts in labor trends, Go also filed Senate Bill 2107 or the Freelance Workers Protection Bill, ensuring that independent workers receive formal contracts and just compensation. This measure is complemented by Senate Bill 1184, which institutionalizes rights and benefits for delivery riders amid growing demand for delivery services.
Beyond labor, Go has remained focused on the agricultural sector. As a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, he has pushed for broader institutional support for farmers and fisherfolk. He was one of the authors of Republic Act No. 11901, or the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Rural Development Financing Enhancement Act of 2022, which expands access to credit in rural communities.
included an image of Abalos, quickly went viral, amassing 11.7 million views within 24 hours and sparking widespread online engagement.
Former Vice President Leni Robredo also voiced her backing for Abalos, saying, “We’ve been friends for a long time. He was an excellent DILG Secretary—just like Jesse. He’s not loud, but he never stops helping.” Robredo encouraged voters to support candidates with a proven record of effective, quiet service.
Other senatorial candidates under the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas coalition have also fully endorsed Abalos. Tulfo highlighted the importance of unity: “No one gets left behind. The whole team needs to win. Abalos and Tolentino both have solid experience in public service.”
Binay emphasized the value of team effort: “I can’t do it alone. We need to work together.”
Lacson urged voters not to miss the chance to elect “capable and experienced leaders” like Abalos and Sen. Francis Tolentino. Sotto added, “We need Senator Tolentino there, alongside Senator Abalos and all of us.”
Major local government groups— including the League of Municipalities of the Philippines, Vice Mayors’ League, League of Cities, Philippine Councilors’ League, and Liga ng mga Barangay—have also endorsed Abalos.
Former Senate President Franklin Drilon gave a straightforward but powerful message: “Vote for Benhur Abalos for Senator. He will help drive progress in our cities and provinces. Number one in the Senate!”
As election day nears, Abalos has received endorsements from all governors in Central Luzon and from key local leaders in Surigao del Sur, Iloilo, Iloilo City, Occidental and Oriental Mindoro, and across the Solid North.
If elected, Abalos has vowed to champion the removal of VAT on electricity and fuel for power generation, amend the Rice Tariffication Law to restore the purchasing power of the National Food Authority (NFA), and pass laws that support small fisherfolk and protect contractual government workers.
Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
Buildings 1 and 2.
“The revocation of certifications, forfeiture of securities, and termination of sublease approvals are not mere administrative actions, they are categorical assertions of CDC’s unwavering mandate to enforce the law and preserve the sanctity of the free port,” CDC President and Chief Executive Officer Agnes Devanadera said.
National ID not required to vote–Comelec
By Lenie Lectura @llectura & Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) warned the public against a circulating false advisory that claims registered voters must present a national ID to vote.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the poll body said that there was such requirement and it was not the Comelec which issued the advisory.
“A voter will only be asked to present a valid ID if their identity cannot be verified through the Election Day Computerized Voters’ List [EDCVL],” the Comelec said.
Under Comelec Resolution 11076, election officers are instructed to first check the voter’s name in the EDCVL.
If the name is not found, the voter will be referred to the Voter’s Assistance Desk to confirm their correct precinct.
If located and no indelible ink is found on the voter’s fingernail, poll workers will verify identity through the photo or specimen signature in the EDCVL.
Only when these methods fail will the voter be required to present a valid ID—excluding barangay or community tax certificates.
If no ID is available, another voter from the same precinct or an election board member may attest under oath to the voter’s identity.
Comelec reiterated that a national ID is not and has never been a voting requirement.
The commission urged the public to rely only on official sources for information, especially as election day nears.
Comelec Spokesman John Rex Laudiangco also warned that this may be another attempt to undermine public trust in the elections.
“This is another orchestrated disinformation intending to discredit Comelec and our electoral processes,” Laudiangco said in a message to reporters.
‘Ensure uninterrupted power’
THE Department of Energy (DOE) and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) must ensure a power-outage free election day next week, the vice-chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy said.
Sen, Sherwin Gatchalian said the agencies should guarantee uninterrupted power nationwide on May 12. “Aside from causing inconvenience to our voters, any power interruption could potentially compromise the credibility of our elections. This is why the DOE and ERC should
focus on preventing power shortages on the day of the election,” said Gatchalian. He emphasized that the DOE and ERC should work closely with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), distribution utilities, generation companies, and electric cooperatives in ensuring that the entire country would have sufficient supply of electricity on the day of the election.
Gatchalian said there should be no unscheduled plant maintenance and ancillary services should be readily available to cover any uptick in electricity demand.
“It is critical that all stakeholders do their part in prioritizing uninterrupted supply of electricity at polling stations on election day to guarantee transparency, safeguard security, and protect our democratic process,” he added.
The DOE, for its part, has already activated the Energy Task Force Election (Etfe) to ensure energy resiliency during the 2025 mid-term elections.
Energy Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella directed the task force to ensure a stable and reliable power supply and sufficient fuel supply throughout the electoral period. He chairs the Task Force on Energy Resiliency (Tfer). Tfer will remain on standby throughout the election period, operating a centralized energy command hub to monitor and address potential power issues in real-time. This will ensure seamless coordination and swift response to any energy-related challenges that may arise.
Additionally, the Task Force members will implement proactive measures to ensure full readiness. These efforts include comprehensive inspections of key facilities and canvassing centers to identify and address potential vulnerabilities. To strengthen preparedness, the Task Force is also coordinating closely with distribution utilities and electric cooperatives, aligning efforts to ensure a swift and effective response.
Key measures include securing reliable backup power sources, replacing outdated electrical components such as fuse boxes and outlets, addressing transformer loads to prevent disruptions, and reinforcing uninterruptible power supply systems for servers to ensure seamless operations during any power fluctuations.
Further enhancing its preparations, the DOE is collaborating with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to ensure the availability of critical backup resources, including generator sets and emergency lamps, at key locations nationwide.
DOJ set to evaluate charges vs Duterte
TBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE Department of Justice (DOJ) said it would conduct an evaluation of the physical injuries and grave threats complaint filed by a businessman against Rep. Paolo Z. Duterte of Davao City over an altercation inside a bar in that city that happened in late February.
In a Viber message, Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon said the evaluation would be conducted to determine if there is basis to refer the complaint for a preliminary investigation.
The preliminary investigation will determine if there is probable cause to elevate the case before a court for trial.
“An investigation will be done and if the evidence is sufficient, a PI [preliminary investigation] will be conducted,” Fadullon said when asked what will happen to the complaint against Duterte that was filed by 37-year-old Kristone John Patria, a
resident of Panacan, Davao City. When asked if the video being circulated online purportedly showing Duterte assaulting and threatening a man at a bar was part of the evidence submitted by Patria before the DOJ, Fadullon said: “ I do not know what attachments are included in the complaint as the records are with the TF [task force] chairman for assignment.” Patria claimed that the legislator physically assaulted and attempted to stab him with a knife inside the Hearsay Gastropub Bar. However, Patria filed the complaint more than two months after the incident and admitted that he did not seek medical attention after the alleged assault.
The alleged video of the incident was released in various social media platforms along with the copy of the complaint filed before the DOJ on May 2. It was not immediately known who circulated the video which has yet to be authenticated by authorities.
Editor: Angel R. Calso
Ukraine, Russia clash over ceasefire proposals amid Victory Day tensions
By Hanna Arhirova & Elise Morton The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—Ukraine and Russia are at odds over competing ceasefire proposals, as Moscow accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of threatening the safety of dignitaries attending Victory Day celebrations after he dismissed Russia’s unilateral 72-hour ceasefire.
Zelenskyy instead renewed calls for a more substantial 30-day pause in hostilities, as the US had initially proposed. He said the proposed ceasefire could start anytime as a meaningful step toward ending the three-year war. “Let’s be honest— you can’t agree on anything serious in three, five, or seven days,” he said.
Zelenskyy said that Moscow’s announcement of a 72-hour ceasefire next week in Ukraine to mark Victory Day in World War II is merely an attempt to create a “soft atmosphere” ahead of Russia’s annual celebrations. “It looks unserious,” he said, “so that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s guests on Red Square feel comfortable and safe.”
Ukraine won’t guarantee safety for visitors to Russia
HE said that Ukraine cannot provide security assurances to foreign officials planning to visit Russia around May 9, warning that Moscow could stage provocations and later attempt to blame Ukraine.
Zelenskyy said that some governments had approached Kyiv seeking safety reassurance while their delegations are in Russia.
“Our position is very simple: we cannot take responsibility for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation,” he said. “They are the ones providing your security, and we will not be offering any guarantees.”
Zelenskyy said he had instructed Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry to advise against visiting Russia during this period. “We must tell those who approach us: we do not recommend visiting the Russian Federation from a security standpoint. And if you choose to do so, don’t ask us—it’s your personal decision.”
The Ukrainian leader reiterated that Kyiv’s military actions will remain “mirror-like,” responding to Russia’s moves. He acknowledged that implementing a complete front-line ceasefire without robust international monitoring remains nearly impossible, but emphasized that the 30-day window offers a credible start.
He confirmed ongoing efforts to
convene the next round of negotiations with the US. He also expressed hope that it could happen in Ukraine, saying it was a “positive sign” that such a gathering is under discussion despite recent personnel changes in Washington.
Russia wants Ukraine to ‘de-escalate’ IN response to Zelenskyy’s comments, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that he had “unequivocally threatened the world leaders who are planning to arrive in Moscow on May 9.”
Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, said Saturday that nobody could guarantee Kyiv’s safety if Ukraine attacked Moscow celebrations on May 9.
“In the event of a real provocation on Victory Day, no one will guarantee that May 10 will come in Kyiv,” he wrote on Telegram. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Russia expects Kyiv to take steps to de-escalate before Victory Day.
“We will, of course, expect (from) Kyiv not ambiguous, but final statements, and most importantly, actions aimed at de-escalating the conflict during the holidays,” Peskov told journalists.
Russia’s ceasefire proposals, he said, were meant to “test Kyiv’s readiness to find ways for long-term sustainable peace between Russia and Ukraine.”
Russia and Ukraine exchange drone strikes
A RUSSIAN drone strike on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, wounded 47 people, officials said, and prompted another appeal from Zelenskyy for more decisive support from the country’s allies.
Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said drones hit 12 locations across the city late Friday, hitting residential buildings, civilian infrastruc -
ture and vehicles.
The Kharkiv Prosecutor’s Office said that Russian forces used drones with thermobaric warheads. In a statement on Telegram, it said thermobaric weapons create a powerful blast wave and a hot cloud of smoke, causing large-scale destruction. The prosecutor said its use may indicate a deliberate violation of international humanitarian law.
“While the world hesitates with decisions, nearly every night in Ukraine turns into a nightmare, costing lives. Ukraine needs strengthened air defense. Strong and real decisions are needed from our partners—the United States, Europe, all our partners who seek peace,” Zelenskyy wrote on X. Russia fired a total of 183 exploding drones and decoys overnight, Ukraine’s air force said. Of those, 77 were intercepted and a further 73 lost, likely having been electronically jammed. Russia also launched two ballistic missiles. Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry said its air defenses shot down 170 Ukrainian drones overnight. The ministry said eight cruise missiles and three guided missiles were also intercepted. In southern Russia, five people, including two children, were injured in a drone strike on the Black Sea port city of Novorossiysk overnight, according to Mayor Andrey Kravchenko.
The latest wave of attacks comes after the US and Ukraine on Wednesday signed an agreement granting American access to Ukraine’s vast mineral resources. It finalizes a deal months in the making that could enable continued military aid to Kyiv amid concerns that President Donald Trump might scale back support in ongoing peace negotiations with Russia.
Morton reported from London. Associated Press writer Dmytro Zhyhinas contributed to this report.
Top Israeli Cabinet ministers to vote on whether to expand Gaza fighting
By Tia Goldenberg The Associated Press
TEL AVIV, Israel—Top Israeli Cabinet ministers were set to meet on Sunday to vote on whether to intensify the country’s military operations in the Gaza Strip, as the army began to call up thousands of reserve soldiers in preparation for an expanded assault, Israeli officials said. Also Sunday, a missile launched by Iranian-backed rebels in Yemen prompted air traffic at Israel’s main Ben-Gurion Airport to halt, police said. The Israeli military said a projectile landed in the area of the airport, although it was not immediately clear if it was the missile or an interceptor of the country’s missile defense system.
The plans to escalate fighting in Gaza more than 18 months after the war there erupted come as a humanitarian crisis in the territory deepens.
As part of its efforts to pressure the militant group Hamas to negotiate on Israel’s terms for a new ceasefire, Israel in early March halted the entry of goods into Gaza. That has plunged the territory of 2.3 million people into what is believed to be the worst humanitarian crisis since the war began.
An eight-week-long ceasefire between
Israel and Hamas that brought a lull in fighting and freed Israeli hostages collapsed in March. Israel resumed its strikes on Gaza on March 18 and has captured swaths of the coastal enclave. Hundreds of Palestinians have been killed since the fighting resumed, according to local health officials. At least six Israeli soldiers have been killed in the renewed fighting.
An Israeli official said the country’s influential security Cabinet would meet on Sunday evening to vote on plans to expand the fighting. A military official said the country was calling up thousands of reserve soldiers. Both officials spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations.
Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, in an interview with Israeli Army Radio, said he wanted to see a “powerful” expansion of the war, but did not disclose details as to what that would entail.
“We need to increase the intensity and continue until we achieve total victory. We must win a total victory,” he said. The war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 250 hostages.
Israel’s offensive has killed more than 52,000 people in Gaza, many of them women and children according to Palestinians health officials, who do not distin -
guish between combatants and civilians in their count.
The fighting has displaced more than 90 percent of Gaza’s population, often multiple times. Hunger has been widespread and the shortage of
Singapore ruling party wins landslide victory, giving Prime Minister Wong strong mandate
By Eileen Ng | The Associated Press
SINGAPORE—Singapore’s longruling People’s Action Party recorded another landslide victory in Saturday’s general elections, extending its 66-year unbroken rule in a huge boost for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong who took power a year ago.
The Election Department announced the PAP won 82 Parliamentary seats after vote counting ended. The party had earlier won five seats uncontested, giving it 87 out of a total 97 seats. The opposition Workers Party maintained its 10 seats.
The PAP’s popular vote rose to 65.6 percent, up from a near-record low of 61 percent in 2020 polls. Jubilant supporters of the PAP, which had ruled Singapore since 1959, gathered in stadiums waved flags and cheered in celebration.
A US-trained economist who is also finance minister, Wong’s appeal for a resounding mandate to steer trade-reliant Singapore through economic troubles following US President Donald Trump’s tariff hikes has hit home. The government has lowered its growth forecast and warned of a possible recession.
Australia’s re-elected prime minister says voters chose unity over division
By Rod Mcguirk The Associated Press
MELBOURNE, Australia—Australia’s reelected Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday was greeted by wellwishers at a Sydney café and said the country had voted for unity over division.
Albanese’s center-left Labor Party won an emphatic victory in elections on Saturday. As vote counting continued, the government was on track to win at least 85 seats in the 150-seat House of Representatives, the lower chamber where parties need a majority to form an administration.
Labor held 78 seats in the previous Parliament, and gaining seats in a second term is rare in Australian politics.
Wong, 52, said he was humbled and grateful for the solid mandate for the PAP. He acknowledged voters’ desire to have more alternative voices in government, but said a strong PAP team was needed to tackle challenges ahead.
one of the world’s richest nations during 31 years in office.
“The results will put Singapore in a better position to face this turbulent world,” he said. Eugene Tan, a law professor at the Singapore Management University, said the opposition’s failure to make further inroads after 2020 was a surprise. “Singapore voters played their cards close to their chest. Today, they indicated that their trust is with a party that has delivered over the years,” he said. Wong succeeded Lee Hsien Loong to become the city-state’s fourth leader. Lee stepped down in May 2024 after two decades at the helm but remained in the Cabinet as a senior minister. His retirement as premier ended a family dynasty started by his father, Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s first leader, who built the former colonial backwater into
The PAP is seen as a beacon of stability and prosperity, but tight government control and the rising cost of living in one of the world’s most expensive cities also has led to growing unhappiness, especially among younger voters. Widening income disparity, increasingly unaffordable housing, overcrowding and restrictions on free speech have loosened the PAP’s grip on power.
The opposition says giving it a stronger presence in Parliament will allow a more balanced political system and greater accountability.
But they face an uphill task, often hamstrung by a lack of resources, fragmented support and a lack of unity. Critics said gerrymandering also gives the PAP an advantage.
Pritam Singh, leader of the Workers Party, acknowledged it was a tough contest and vowed to continue the fight for a more balanced Parliament. “The slate is wiped clean, we start work again tomorrow, and we go again,” he said.
‘Bilateral defense and security ties’
THE United States government offered its congratulations to Singapore and Wong.
In a statement, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US and Singapore had shared a “strong and enduring strategic partnership and a commitment to a secure, free, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region” for almost 60 years.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with the newly elected government and Prime Minister Wong to strengthen economic growth and our bilateral defense and security ties, which benefit Americans, Singaporeans, and others across the region,” Rubio said.
While the Workers Party failed to expand its presence, it had consolidated its support with increased share vote in some areas, said Southeast Asia political analyst Bridget Welsh. Other smaller opposition parties however, failed to make a breakthrough.
Welsh said voters opted for stability amid concerns over global volatility due to sweeping US tariffs. Wong’s more approachable leadership in engaging younger voters and efforts to renew PAP by bringing in about a-third of new faces also helped swung votes, she said.
“I call this the Wong and Trump effect,” she said. “The issue of economic insecurity really did reinforce his mandate.”
“The Australian people voted for unity rather than division,” Albanese told reporters in the crowded café in inner-suburban Leichhardt where he and his fiancée, Jodie Haydon, gathered with colleagues and supporters for coffee.
“We’ll be a disciplined, orderly government in our second term, just like we have been in our first,” he added.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers, the government’s top economic minister, explained the election result as voters seeking stability after US President Donald Trump’s tariff disruptions to the global economy.
“This was beyond even our most optimistic expectations,” Chalmers told Australian Broadcasting Corp. of the election result.
“We know that this second term has been given to us by the Australian people because they want stability in uncertain times,” he added.
Australian election result reminiscent of Canada IN an election result reminiscent of Canada’s recent contest, conservative opposition leader Peter Dutton lost his parliamentary seat. His alliance of parties was reduced to 37 seats.
Canada’s opposition leader, Pierre Poilievre, lost his seat after Trump declared economic war on the US neighbor. Poilievre had previously been regarded as a shoo-in to become Canada’s next prime minister and shepherd his Conservative Party back into power for the first time in a decade.
Senior Australian lawmakers say they feared late last year they would become the first government to be tossed out after a single three-year term since the turmoil of the Great Depression in 1931.
Like the center-left Canadian government, the Australian government had linked their political opponents to Trump’s administration and its Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency.
Australia was hit during the five-week election campaign with 10 percent tariffs on exports to the United States despite trading with its bilateral free trade partner at a deficit for decades.
Opposition leader branded ‘DOGE-y Dutton’
THE opposition leader was branded “DOGE-y Dutton,” and Labor warned that a Dutton government would slash public sector services to pay for
seven government-funded nuclear power plants. Labor said Dutton never campaigned at any of the proposed power plant sites and argued the conservatives realized that nuclear reactors were not popular. There is no nuclear power generation in Australia.
Labor also accused Dutton of igniting culture wars. While Albanese stands before the Australian flag and two Indigenous flags at media announcements, Dutton had said that as prime minister, he would only stand in front of the national flag.
Indigenous Australians account for 4% of the population and are the nation’s most disadvantaged ethnic minority. Chalmers said the direct impacts of US tariffs on Australia were “manageable and relatively modest.”
“But there is a huge downside risk in the global economy. I think what’s happening, particularly between the US and China, does cast a dark shadow over the global economy. And we’re not uniquely impacted by that. But we’re really well-placed. We are quite well-prepared,” Chalmers said.
Albanese has become the first Australian prime minister to lead a party to consecutive election victories since conservative John Howard in 2004.
Revolving door for Australian political leaders HOWARD’S 11-year reign ended at the next election in 2007. Like Dutton, Howard also lost his seat in Parliament as well as his government. Howard’s departure coincided with the start of an extraordinary period of political instability that created a revolving door for political leaders. There have been six prime ministers since Howard, including one who served in the role twice in separate stints three years apart. Albanese said the first world leader to congratulate him on his election victory was Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape, who phoned at 7:45 a.m.
“He’s a very good friend,” Albanese said. “I told him it’s a bit early to call.” Albanese had also spoken to New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and received text messages of congratulation from British Prime Minister Kier Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron. Albanese said he would speak to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy later Sunday.
Mexico president rejects Trump’s offer to send US troops to fight drug cartels
MEXICO CITY—Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Saturday that US President
Donald Trump proposed sending American troops into Mexico to help her administration fight drug trafficking but that she rejected it.
Her remarks to supporters in eastern Mexico came in response to a Wall Street Journal article published the day before, describing a tense phone call last month in which Trump reportedly pressured her to accept a bigger role for the US military in combating drug cartels in Mexico.
“He said, ‘How can we help you fight drug trafficking? I propose that the United States military come in and help you.’ And you know what I said to him?
‘No, President Trump.’”
She added: “Sovereignty is not for sale. Sovereignty is loved and defended.”
White House National Security Council spokesman James Hewitt said in a statement later Saturday that Trump has worked closely with Mexico’s president “to achieve the most secure southwest border in history.”
“Dangerous Foreign Terrorist Organizations, however, continue to threaten our shared security and the drugs and crime they spread threaten American communities across the country,” the statement said. “The President has been
crystal clear that Mexico must do more do combat these gangs and cartels and the United States stands ready to assist and expand the already close cooperation between our two countries.”
The US military presence has increased steadily along its southern border with Mexico in recent months, following Trump’s order in January to increase the army’s role in stemming the flow of migrants.
The US Northern Command has surged troops and equipment to the border, increased manned surveillance flights to monitor fentanyl trafficking along the border and sought expanded authority for US Special Forces to work closely with Mexican forces conducting operations against cartels.
Trump designated many of the gangs and cartels smuggling drugs into the US as foreign terrorist organizations on Feb. 19, restricting their movements and lending law enforcement more resources to act against them.
But Sheinbaum’s hardline stance Saturday signaled that US pressure for unilateral military intervention would put her and Trump on a collision course after months of cooperation on immigration and trade.
“We can work together, but you in your territory and us in ours,” Sheinbaum said. AP
AUSTRALIAN Prime Minister Anthony Albanese meets with party supporters in Sydney after winning a second term in the general election, Saturday, May 3, 2025. AP PHOTO/RICK RYCROFT
Protests erupt in Morocco as public outcry escalates against normalization with Israel
By Sam Metz & Akram Oubachir The Associated Press
TANGIER, Morocco—More than a year of protests over Morocco’s decision to normalize ties with Israel has emboldened activists and widened a gap between the decisions of the government and the sentiments of the governed. The fury has spilled into the country’s strategic ports.
Amid shipping cranes and stacked containers, 34-year-old agricultural engineer Ismail Lghazaoui marched recently through a sea of Palestinian flags and joined protesters carrying signs that read “Reject the ship,” in reference to a vessel transporting fighter jet components from Houston, Texas. Activists are urging Moroccan port officials to try to block ships carrying military cargo to Israel, much like Spain did last year. Protests often target Danish shipping company Maersk, which helps transport components used to make Lockheed Martin’s F-35 as part of the US Defense Department’s Security Cooperative Participant Program that facilitates weapons sales to allies including Israel. A similar boycott campaign landed Lghazaoui in prison last year, but that didn’t deter him from turning out again for resurgent protests last month, after his release. Lghazaoui is one of more than a dozen activists pursued by Moroccan authorities for criticizing the government’s
ties with Israel.
During a rally in November in Casablanca where Lghazaoui spoke, plainclothes officers beat him and others to prevent them from advancing toward the US Consulate, he said. He later posted about Maersk on social media and was arrested and charged with incitement. He spent four months in prison, from November to February. “They try to silence people,” Lghazaoui told The Associated Press. “They were using me to dissuade people or to push people away from what they were doing.”
A push to topple ‘normalization’ MOROCCO is one of four Arab states that normalized ties with Israel as part of the Abraham Accords brokered in 2020 during President Donald Trump’s first term.
The deal delivered something Moroccan diplomats had chased for years: US support for Morocco’s claims over the disputed Western Sahara. But its cost — growing public resentment to -
ward normalization—has ballooned throughout the Israel-Hamas war.
“I’ve rarely seen such a chasm between public opinion and the monarchy. What the power elites are doing goes completely against what the Moroccan people want,” said Aboubakr Jamai, dean of the Madrid Center at the American College of the Mediterranean.
Tens of thousands have taken to the streets of Morocco since the war began. While largely made up of families, students, Islamists, leftists and union members, the protests have also drawn more radical voices. Some have burned Israeli flags or chanted against royal adviser André Azoulay, a Jewish Moroccan.
Clad in riot gear, security forces have stood by and watched as protesters denounce “normalization” and Morocco’s expanding trade and military ties with Israel.
But authorities have shown that their tolerance for dissent only goes so far.
Morocco’s constitution generally allows for freedom of expression, although it is illegal to criticize the monarchy or King Mohammed VI and those who do can face prosecution. Throughout the war, activists who have implicated the monarchy on social media or protested businesses targeted by boycotts due to their operations in Israel have received prison sentences.
The constraints mirror Egypt and Jordan, which like Morocco have publicly sympathized with the Palestinians, maintained ties with Israel and imprisoned activists who direct their ire toward the government.
However, unlike in those countries, the arrests in Morocco have done little to quell public anger or activists’ demands.
A harbor draws heat
IN recent weeks, protesters have set their sights on a new target: the country’s strategic ports and the companies using them to move military cargo.
Activists and port workers recently demanded that two vessels crossing the Atlantic carrying fighter jet parts that they suspected would end up in Israel be blocked from docking in Morocco.
Port protests gained momentum last month when Morocco’s largest labor union backed the call to block the two ships, and dozens of religious scholars and preachers, many affiliated with the anti-monarchy Islamist movement Al Adl wal Ihsan, issued an edict with a similar message.
While not officially allowed to participate in politics, Al Adl wal Ihsan has mobilized large crowds and helped lead pro-Palestinian activism throughout the Israel-Hamas war, drawing in young people who feel official parties don’t speak to them. On a recent Friday, the group said Moroccans took part in 110 demonstrations across 66 cities in support of Palestinians in Gaza.
Both Al Adl wal Ihsan and union members marched portside in Tangier and Casablanca, where the vessels eventually docked April 20.
In a statement, Maersk acknowledged that ships that passed through the two Moroccan ports carried parts used in the fighter jet. But it denied activists’ claims of directly shipping weapons to conflict zones, stating that they require end-use certificates to verify the final destination of military cargo.
A port official in Tangier who spoke on the condition of anonymity be -
cause they weren’t authorized to speak on the matter said that while cargo docked and unloaded in Morocco undergoes examination, ships docking en route to other destinations do not. The Israeli military did not respond to questions about the shipments. F-35s are typically assembled in the United States, using components sourced throughout the world, including outer wings and display systems manufactured in Israel.
Morocco’s Foreign Ministry did not respond to questions about normalization or its port policies, though diplomats have previously argued that relations with Israel allow them to press for a two-state solution and facilitate aid delivery to Gaza.
Domestic fault lines exposed SOME observers in Morocco have questioned whether the focus on Gaza has diverted attention from pressing domestic struggles. Voices from Moroccan nationalist circles on social media have instead highlighted the marginalization of the Indigenous Amazigh population and the dispute over Western Sahara, which they argue are more central to national identity and sovereignty. For others, the prolonged war has prompted clear shifts. The Islamist Justice and Development Party, which once backed normalization with Israel while in power, recently invited senior Hamas officials to its congress in Rabat. However, the officials were unable to obtain visas to enter Morocco.
“Palestine will remain our primary cause,” said Abdelilah Benkirane, a former prime minister and general secretary of the Justice and Development Party.
Gaza on brink of famine as blockade worsens: Thousands of children suffer from malnutrition
By Mohammed Jahjouh & Sarah El Deeb
The Associated Press
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip—The little boy is in tears and, understandably, irritable. Diarrhea has plagued him for half of his brief life. He is dehydrated and so weak. Attached to his tiny left hand is a yellow tube that carries liquid food to his frail little system. At 9 months old, Khaled is barely 11 pounds (5 kilos)—half of what a healthy baby his age should be. And in Gaza’s main pediatric hospital ward, as doctors try to save her son, Wedad Abdelaal can only watch.
After back-to-back emergency visits, the doctors decided to admit Khaled last weekend. For nearly a week, he was tube-fed and then given supplements and bottled milk, which is distributed every three hours or more. His mother, nervous and helpless, says that’s not enough. “I wish they would give it to us every hour. He waits for it impatiently ... but they too are short on supplies,” Abdelaal says. “ This border closure is destroying us.”
The longer they stay in the hospital, the better Khaled will get. But Abdelaal is agonizing over her other children, back in their tent, with empty pots and nothing to eat as Israel’s blockade of Gaza enters its third month, the longest since the war started.
Locked, sealed and devastated by Israeli bombings, Gaza is facing starvation. Thousands of children have already been treated for malnutrition. Exhausted, displaced and surviving on basics for over a year and half of war, parents like Abdelaal watch their children waste away and find there is little they can do. They are out of options.
Acute malnutrition among children is spiking
HOSPITALS are hanging by a thread, dealing with mass casualty attacks that prioritize deadly emergencies. Food stocks at U.N. warehouses have run out. Markets
are emptying. What is still available is sold at exorbitant prices, unaffordable for most in Gaza where more than 80% are reliant on aid, according to the United Nations.
Community kitchens distributing meals for thousands are shuttering. Farmland is mostly inaccessible. Bakeries have closed. Water distribution is grinding to a halt, largely because of lack of fuel.
In desperate scenes, thousands, many of them kids, crowd outside community kitchens, fighting over food. Warehouses with few supplies have been looted.
The longest blockade on Gaza has sparked a growing international outcry, but it has failed to persuade Israel to break open the borders. More groups accuse Israel of using starvation as a weapon of war. Residents and humanitarians warn that acute malnutrition among children is spiraling.
“We are breaking the bodies and minds of the children of Gaza,” Michael Ryan, executive director of emergencies at the World Health Organization, told reporters in Geneva. “Because if we don’t do something about it, we are complicit in what is happening before our very eyes....The children should not have to pay the price.”
Israel imposed the blockade March 2, then ended a two-month ceasefire by resuming military operations on March 18, saying both steps were necessary to pressure Hamas into releasing the hostages. Before the ceasefire collapsed, Israel believed 59 hostages were still inside Gaza, 24 of them alive and still in captivity.
It hasn’t responded to accusations that it uses starvation as a war tactic. But Israeli officials have previously said Gaza had enough aid after a surge in distribution during the ceasefire, and accused Hamas of diverting aid for its purposes. Humanitarian workers deny there is significant diversion, saying the U.N. monitors distribution strictly.
A mother wants to help her son—but can’t KHALED has suffered from malnutrition
since he was 2 months old. His mother managed it through outpatient visits and supplements distributed at feeding centers. But for the past seven months, Abdelaal, 31, has been watching him slowly shrivel. She, too, is malnourished and has had hardly any protein in recent months.
After an exhausting pregnancy and two days of labor, Khaled was born— a low-weight baby at 4 1/2 pounds (2 kilos) but otherwise healthy. Abdelaal
began nursing him. But because of lack of calcium, she is losing her teeth—and producing too little milk.
“Breastfeeding needs food, and I am not able to give him enough,” she says.
Khaled has four other siblings, aged between 9 and 4. The family has been displaced from Rafah and now lives in a tent further north in Mawasi Khan Younis.
As food ran out under the blockade, the family grew dependent on community kitchens that serve rice, pasta and cooked
beans. Cooking in the tent is a struggle: There is no gas, and finding wood or plastic to burn is exhausting and risky. Ahmed, 7 and Maria, 4, are already showing signs of malnutrition. Ahmed, 7, weighs 17 pounds (8 kilos); his bones are piercing his skin. He gets no supplements
at feeding centers, which serve only kids under 6. Maria, 4, has also lost weight, but there is no scale to weigh her. “My kids have become so frail,” Abdelaal laments. “They are like chicks.”
See “Gaza,” A11
Pope Francis left legacy of challenges for successor amidst Vatican turmoil
By Nicole Winfield
The Associated Press
VATICAN CITY—While Pope Francis accomplished a lot in his 12-year papacy, he left much unfinished business and many challenges for his successor—from the Vatican’s disastrous finances to the wars raging on multiple continents and discontent among traditionalists about his crackdown on the old Latin Mass.
When the conclave’s cardinals finish casting their ballots under Michelangelo’s frescoed ceilings of the Sistine Chapel, the 267th pope will have to decide whether to continue Francis’ policies, tweak them, or abandon them altogether. Will he prioritize migrants, the environment and the social justice policies that Francis championed, or give precedence to other issues?
Among the challenges facing the new pope:
The role of women FRANCIS did more to promote women to leadership positions in the Vatican than any pope before him, and his successor will have to decide whether to continue that legacy, accelerate it or back down and change course.
The issue isn’t minor. Catholic women do much of the church’s work in schools and hospitals and are usually responsible for passing the faith to the next generation. But they have long complained of second-class status in an institution that reserves the priesthood for men.
Some are voting with their feet. Nuns are leaving in droves, either through attrition or simply quitting, leading to questions about the future of female religious orders.
The Vatican says the number of nuns globally has been hemorrhaging about 10,000 per year for over a de -
cade, with their numbers at 599,229 at the end of 2022, the last year for which there are statistics. In 2012, there were 702,529 nuns globally.
The new pope will have to address women’s expectations for not only a greater say in church governance, but greater recognition.
“We are the great majority of the people of God,” said Maria Lia Zerbino, an Argentine named by Francis to advise the Vatican on bishop nominations, a first for a woman. “It’s a matter of justice. It’s not an achievement of feminism, it’s in the church’s interest.”
Women’s Ordination Conference, which advocates for female priests, goes further. “The exclusion of women from the conclave, and from ordained ministry, is a sin and a scandal,” it said.
Gervase Ndyanabo, a prominent lay leader in Uganda, said there should be more participation of the laity and women in the administration of parishes and decision-making at all levels. Progress, he said, has come “at a snail’s speed.”
Polarization of progressives and traditionalists
AN anonymous letter circulated among Vatican officials in 2022, highlighting what it called Francis’ “disastrous” pontificate and what a new pope must do correct the “catastrophe” he had wrought. Its author was Australian Cardinal George Pell, but that fact emerged only after his death in 2023. Once a close adviser to Francis but always conservative, Pell grew increasingly disillusioned with his papacy, signing the letter with the pen name, “Demos”—the common people.
Last year, a screed by another anonymous cardinal circulated, signed by “Demos II.” It resumed where Pell left off, denouncing what
it called Francis’ “autocratic, at times seemingly vindictive style of governance; a carelessness in matters of law; an intolerance for even respectful disagreement; and—most seriously—a pattern of ambiguity in matters of faith and morals causing confusion among the faithful.”
It blamed polarization in the church on the confusion Francis had sown and urged the next pope to focus on “recovery and reestablishment of truths that have been slowly obscured or lost among many Christians.”
Those letters underscored the ageold divisions between traditionalists and progressives in the Catholic Church that were exacerbated during Francis’ pontificate. He emphasized inclusion and “synodality,” or listening to the faithful, and cracked down on traditionalists by restricting their celebration of the old Latin Mass. While the conservatives may not have enough votes to elect one of their own, a new pope will have to try to restore unity.
The polarization is keenly felt in the United States, where anyone using social media can challenge the Vatican or even the local church’s perspective, said professor Steven Millies of Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.
Such forms of communications “can have a narrative of what Catholicism is that doesn’t come from any ordained minister, from any bishop, and can, night after night, the world over, suggest that the pope is wrong,” he said.
Clergy sexual abuse
WHILE many church leaders would like to think clergy sexual abuse scandals are in the past, survivors and their advocates want the new pope to address it as a top priority.
Francis and Pope Benedict XVI took steps to end decades of abuse and coverups, changing church laws to punish abusers and their clerical superiors who hid their wrongdoing.
But a culture of impunity still reigns, and church authorities have barely begun to deal with other forms of spiri -
tual and psychological abuse that have traumatized generations of faithful. Twenty years after the sex abuse scandal first erupted in the US, there is still no transparency from the Vatican about the depth of the problem or how cases have been handled.
The new pope must deal with not only the existing caseload but continued outrage from rank-and-file Catholics and ongoing revelations in parts of the world where the scandal hasn’t yet emerged.
Ahead of the conclave, groups of survivors and their advocates held news conferences in Rome to publicize the problem. They created online databases to call out cardinals who botched cases and demanded the Vatican finally adopt a zero-tolerance policy to bar any abuser from priestly ministry.
Peter Isely of the US group SNAP said it was “crazy and bizarre” that the church doesn’t apply the same rigor to abusers that it does to establishing criteria for ordination.
“You can’t be a married man and a priest,” he said. “You can’t be a woman and a priest.…But you can be a child molester and a priest.”
LGBTQ+ outreach
FRANCIS famously said, “Who am I to judge?” when asked in 2013 about a purportedly gay monsignor at the Vatican. Francis sought to assure gay people that God loves them as they are, that “being homosexual is not a crime,” and that everyone is welcome in the church. His successor must decide whether to follow in that outreach or pull back. There’s plenty of support for rolling it back. In 2024, African bishops issued a continent-wide dissent from Francis’ decision allowing priests to bless samesex couples, and bishops from around the world attending his synod on the church’s future backed off language explicitly accepting LGBTQ+ people.
Rodney Muhumuza in Kampala, Uganda, and Giovanna Dell’Orto in Vatican City contributed.
Trump draws criticism with AI image as pope ahead of the papal conclave
By Nicole Winfield & Jill Colvin
NThe Associated Press
EW YORK—President Donald Trump posted an artificial intelligencegenerated image of himself dressed as pope as the mourning of Pope Francis continues and just days before the conclave to elect his successor is set to begin.
Trump’s action drew rebukes from a group representing Catholic bishops in New York and among Italians.
The image, shared Friday night on Trump’s Truth Social site and later reposted by the White House on its official X account, raised eyebrows on social media and at the Vatican, which is still in the period of nine days of official mourning following Francis’ death on April 21. Catholic cardinals have been celebrating daily Masses in his memory and are due to open the conclave to elect his successor on Wednesday.
The death of a pope and election of another is a matter of utmost solemnity for Catholics, for whom the pope is Christ’s vicar on Earth. That is all the more true in Italy, where the papacy is held in high esteem even by nonreligious Italians.
The image featuring Trump in a white cassock and pointed miter, or bishop’s hat, was the topic of several questions during the Vatican’s daily conclave briefing Saturday. Italian and Spanish news reports lamented its poor taste and said it was offensive, given that the period of official mourning is still underway.
Left-leaning former Premier Matteo Renzi said the image was shameful. “This is an image that offends believers, insults institutions and shows that the leader of the right-wing world enjoys clowning around,” Renzi wrote on X. “Meanwhile, the US economy risks recession and the dollar loses value. The sovereignists are doing damage, everywhere.”
The Vatican spokesman, Matteo Bruni, declined to comment.
In the United States, the New York State Catholic Conference, which represents the bishops of the state in working with government, accused Trump of mockery.
“There is nothing clever or funny about this image, Mr. President,” they wrote. “We just buried our beloved Pope Francis and the cardinals are about to enter a solemn conclave to elect a new successor of St. Peter. Do not mock us.”
Italy’s left-leaning La Repubblica also featured the image on its homepage Saturday with a commentary accusing Trump of “pathological megalomania.”
Asked to respond to the criticism, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that, “President Trump flew to Italy to pay his respects for Pope Francis and attend his funeral, and he has been a staunch champion for Catholics and religious liberty.”
Jack Posobiec, a prominent far-right influencer and Trump ally who recently participated in a Catholic prayer event in March at Trump’s Florida resort, also defended the president.
“I’m Catholic. We’ve all been making jokes about the upcoming Pope selection all week. It’s called a sense of humor,” he wrote on X. The episode comes after Trump joked last week about his interest in the vacancy.
“I’d like to be pope. That would be my number one choice,” the thrice married president, who is not Catholic, told reporters.
Sen. Lindsey Graham, a close Trump ally, piled on.
“I was excited to hear that President Trump is open to the idea of being the next Pope. This would truly be a dark horse candidate, but I would ask the papal conclave and Catholic faithful to keep an open mind about this possibility!” Graham, R-S.C., wrote on X. “The first Pope-US President combination has many upsides. Watching for white smoke…. Trump MMXXVIII!” Vice President JD Vance, who is Catholic and was one of the last foreign officials to meet with Francis before the pope died, also joked about Secretary of State Marco Rubio becoming pope, suggesting Rubio could add it to the long list of titles he holds, including national security adviser and acting archivist.
Beyond floating himself for the job, Trump also has put in a plug for Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of New York.
“I have no preference. I must say, we have a cardinal that happens to be out a place called New York who’s very good. So, we’ll see what happens,” he said.
Dolan, 75, is one of 10 US cardinals who will be voting in the conclave, but Trump’s pitch might have cost Dolan support.
The reason conclaves are held in secrecy, with cardinals sequestered for the duration, is to prevent outside secular powers from influencing their choice, as occurred in centuries past.
There is an old saying about campaigning for the job of pope or of being promoted excessively, especially by outsiders: If you “enter a conclave as pope, you leave as a cardinal.”
While Trump attended Francis’ funeral, he and Vance have clashed with US bishops in general and Francis in particular over the administration’s hard-line stance on immigration and its efforts to deport migrants en masse. Right before he was hospitalized in February for pneumonia, Francis issued a strong rebuke of the administration’s mass deportation plans and Vance’s theological justification of it.
Over 12 years as pope, Francis tried to remake the US Catholic hierarchy more in his image, elevating pastors who prioritized social justice and migration issues over culture warriors who were more favored by his more doctrinaire predecessors St. John Paul II and Benedict XVI. A new pope who is more conservative could reverse that effort.
Trump has nominated as his ambassador to the Holy See Brian Burch, whose Catholicvote.org has been aggressively covering the pre-conclave days at the Vatican. It was one of the main disseminators in English-speaking media of a report, flatly and officially denied by the Vatican, that Cardinal Pietro Parolin had had a health scare this past week that required medical attention.
Parolin was the secretary of state under Francis and is seen as a leading contender to be pope. He is also the main architect of the Vatican’s China policy and its controversial 2018 deal with Beijing over bishop nominations—a deal that was sharply criticized by the first Trump administration.
Winfield reported from Vatican City.
France commemorates 80 years since Nazi surrender as World War II survivors share harrowing memories
By Sylvie Corbet
The Associated Press
PARIS—As France prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of the Nazi surrender to Allied forces, survivors of World War II reflect on painful memories of fear, deprivation and persecution shaped by the German occupation of the country and the deportation of Jews and others to death camps.
In May 1940, Nazi forces swept through France. Among those caught in the chaos was 15-year-old Geneviève Perrier, who fled her village in northeastern France to escape the advancing German troops like millions of others. By June, France had surrendered.
Three years later, Esther Senot, 15, was arrested by French police and deported to Auschwitz-Birkenau. In 1944, 19-year-old Ginette Kolinka was sent to the same death camp.
Now close to 100 years old, the women continue to share their stories, determined to keep the memory of the war alive and pass its lessons on to future generations.
Geneviève Perrier, 99, a civilian under Nazi occupation
“WE were scared,” Perrier remembered as she described fleeing on bicycle with her mother, carrying only a small travel bag, while her uncle took a horse-drawn cart on the roads of eastern France.
“There were lots of people fleeing, with kids in baby carriages, everyone was running away. There was a column of civilians fleeing and a column of French soldiers fleeing,” she said. Perrier and others hid in a field when they heard bomber planes. “Mom had a white hat. Some told her: ‘remove your hat!’ And that’s when I saw a huge bomb pass over our heads. It didn’t explode. It was the chance of a lifetime.”
Later taking a train, Perrier found refuge for a few months in a small town in southwestern France, in an area governed by the collaborationist Vichy regime, before her mother decided they would go back home—only to live under harsh Nazi occupation.
“The Resistance was big in our area,”
Perrier said, adding she was willing to join the so-called French Forces of the Interior (FFI). Three women from the FFI were captured and tortured by the Nazis just a few kilometers away from her home, she recalled.
“My mother kept telling me: ‘No, I don’t want you to leave. I don’t have a husband anymore, so if you go…’” she said. “She was right, because all three of them were killed.”
Still, Perrier kept her spirit of resistance in her daily life.
“At church, there was a Catholic hymn,” she said, singing: “Catholic and French, always!”
“We bellowed it with all our might, hoping they (the Nazi soldiers) would hear,” she said.
When the Allied forces landed on Normandy beaches on June 6, 1944, Perrier said she didn’t have much access to news and could not believe it.
Later that year, she saw the troops of General Leclerc’s 2nd French Division, equipped with American tanks, coming into her village. “They liberated us and there was a tank that had stopped almost on our doorstep. So, I went to see the tank, of course. And then, they held a ball not far away,” she said.
Towards the end of the war, French men brought a German soldier they accused of having killed a baby to the village’s cem -
etery. “They made him dig his grave. They put him in it…They killed him,” she said.
Esther Senot, 97, Holocaust survivor BORN in Poland from a Jewish family who emigrated to France at the end of the 1930s, Esther Senot was 15 when she was arrested in Paris by French police. She was deported in Sept. 1943 to the AuschwitzBirkenau camp by cattle train. At the ramp, the Nazis selected those they could use as forced laborers.
“A German with his loudspeaker said: the elderly, women, children, those who are tired can get on the trucks,” she recalled. “Out of the 1,000 people we were, 650 got on the trucks.... And 106 of us, women, were selected to go back to work in the camp to forced labor.” Others were gassed to death soon after their arrival. Senot survived 17 months in Auschwitz-Birkenau and other camps and made it back to France at age 17.
In spring 1945, the Lutetia hotel in Paris became a gathering place for those returning from the concentration camps. Senot described the crowd of people looking for missing family members, some bringing photos of their loved ones, while walls were covered with posters listing the names of survivors.
“It was bureaucratic,” Senot said. “At the first counter, they gave us temporary identity cards. Then they gave us a fairly basic medical examination...And those who were lucky enough to find their family, they went to an office where they were given some money and were told: ‘Now you’ve completed the formalities... you go home.’”
Seventeen members of Senot’s family were killed by the Nazis during WWII, including her mother, her father and six siblings.
In a recent commemoration in front of the hotel, Senot said she had hoped her survival would “bear witness to the absolute crime in which we were caught.” But once back in France, she felt the hardest thing was the indifference to the fate of those who had been deported.
“France had been liberated for one year and people didn’t expect us to return with all the misery in the world on our shoulders,” she said.
In her former Parisian neighborhood, a small crowd watched her. “I weighed 32 kilos (70 pounds) when I came back, my hair was shaved. One year after the Liberation, people hadn’t meet any woman looking like that.”
Senot said when she started to explain what happened to her, “you could see the disbelief in their eyes.” “And suddenly they got angry. They said: ‘But you have gone mad, you are talking nonsense, it couldn’t have happened.’ And I will always remember the face of a man who looked at me and said: ‘You came back in such small numbers, what did you do to come back and not the others?’”
Ginette Kolinka, 100: Holocaust survivor KOLINKA , who was 19 when she was deported in April 1944 to Auschwitz-Birkenau, is well known in France for sharing her vivid memories of the concentration camps with the younger generation in the past two decades.
In June 1945, when she returned to Paris, she weighed only 26 kilos (57 pounds) and was very weak. Still, compared to some others, she felt “lucky” to find her mother and four sisters alive in France when coming back home. Her father, a brother and a sister died in death camps. She did not speak about the war for over half a century. “Those who told their story, it’s true that it seemed unbelievable (at the time),” she said.
Six million European Jews and people from other minorities were killed by the Nazis and their collaborators during the Holocaust.
In the 2000s, Kolinka joined an association of surviving deportees and began to speak out.
“What we have to keep in mind is that everything that happened was because one man (Adolf Hitler) hated the Jews,” she said.
“Hatred, for me, is dangerous,” she added. “As soon as we say: that one is like this, that one is like that, it already proves that we make a difference when in reality, no matter whether we are Jews, Muslims, Christians, Blacks, we are human beings.”
AP journalists Nicolas Garriga and Patrick Hermansen contributed to the story.
Gaza...
Continued from A9
Nutrition centers around Gaza are shutting down SINCE March 2, UN agencies have documented a rise in acute malnutrition among children. They are finding low immunity, frequent illness, weight and muscle mass loss, protruding bones or bellies, and brittle hair. Since the start of the year, more than 9,000 children have been admitted or treated for acute malnutrition, UNICEF said. The increase was dramatic in March, with 3,600 cases or an 80% increase compared to the 2,000 children treated in February. Since then, conditions have only worsened. Supplies used to prevent malnutrition, such as supplements and biscuits, have been depleted, according to UNICEF. Therapeutic food used to treat acute malnutrition is running out.
Parents and caregivers are sharing malnutrition treatments to make up for shortages, which undermines treatment. Nearly half of the 200 nutrition centers around Gaza shut down because of displacement and bombardment.
Meanwhile, supplies are languishing at the borders, prevented by Israel from entering Gaza.
“It is absolutely clear that we are going to have more cases of wasting, which is the most dangerous form of malnutrition. It is also clear we are going to have more children dying from these preventable causes,” UNICEF spokesperson Jonathan Crickx says.
Suad Obaid, a nutritionist in Gaza, says parents are frequenting feeding centers more because they have nothing to feed their children. “No one can rely on canned food and emergency feeding for nearly two years.”
At Nasser Hospital, four critical cases were receiving treatment last week for acute malnutrition, including Khaled. Only critical cases are admitted—and only for short periods so more children can be treated.
“If we admit all those who have acute malnutrition, we will need hundreds of beds,” says Dr. Yasser Abu Ghaly, acknowledging: “We can’t help many, anyway...There is nothing in our hands.”
The system for managing diseases has buckled BEFORE the war, hundreds of families in Gaza were registered and treated for congenital defects, genetic or autoimmune disorders, a system that has broken down mostly because food, formulasor tablets that helped manage the diseases quickly ran out.
Dr. Ahmed al-Farrah, head of the pediatrics and obstetrics ward at Nasser Hospital, says hundreds of children with genetic disorders could suffer cognitive disorders as well, if not worse.
“They are sentenced to death,” he says.
Osama al-Raqab’s cystic fibrosis has worsened since the start of the war. Lack of meat, fish and enzyme tablets to help him digest food meant repeated hospital visits and long bouts of chest infections and acute diarrhea, says his mother, Mona. His bones poke through his skin. Osama, 5, weighs 20 pounds (9 kilos) and can hardly move or speak. Canned food offers him no nutrition.
“With starvation in Gaza, we only eat canned lentils,” his mother says. “If the borders remain closed, we will lose that too.”
Rahma al-Qadi’s baby was born with Down syndrome seven months ago. Since then, Sama gained little more than half a pound (300 grams) and was hospitalized multiple times with fever. Her mother, also malnourished and still suffering from infection to her wound after birth, continues to breastfeed her. Again, it is not enough.
Sama is restless, doesn’t sleep and is always demanding more food. Doctors ask her mother to eat better to produce more milk.
Lifting Sama’s scrawny legs up, her mother says: “I can’t believe this is the leg of a 7-month-old.”
HOLOCAUST survivor Ester Senot, 97, attends a commemorative ceremony to mark the 80th anniversary of the return of the deportees, in Paris, France, Sunday, April 27, 2025. AP PHOTO/THOMAS PADILLA
Pakistan test fires ballistic missile amid tensions with India over Kashmir attack
By Munir Ahmed
The Associated Press
ISLAMABAD—Pakistan test fired a ballistic missile Saturday as tensions with India spiked over last month’s deadly attack on tourists in the disputed Kashmir region.
The surface-to-surface missile has a range of 450 kilometers (about 280 miles), the Pakistani military said. There was no immediate comment about the launch from India, which blames Pakistan for the April 22 gun massacre in the resort town of Pahalgam, a charge Pakistan denies.
Pakistan’s military said the launch of the Abdali Weapon System was aimed at ensuring the “operational readiness of troops and validating key technical parameters,” including the missile’s advanced navigation system and enhanced maneuverability features.
Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated those behind the successful test. Missiles are not fired toward the border area with India; they are normally fired into the Arabian Sea or the deserts of southwest Balochistan province.
Islamabad-based security analyst Syed Muhammad Ali said Saturday’s
missile was named after a prominent Muslim conqueror of India, underlining its symbolic significance.
“The timing of this launch is critical in the current geopolitical context,” Ali told The Associated Press. He said the test was intended as a strategic signal to India after it had threatened to suspend a crucial watersharing treaty.
India’s navy said on April 27 that its vessels had successfully undertaken anti-ship firings to “revalidate and demonstrate readiness of platforms, systems and crew for long-range precision offensive strike.”
Ashok Malik, a former policy adviser in India’s Foreign Ministry, said there was anger across the country following the gun attack. The 26 victims came from 13 different states.
“Internationally, there is enormous sympathy for India and little patience with Pakistan,” said Malik. “I don’t believe anybody in India wants a fullfledged war. Even so, there is domestic pressure and diplomatic space for a sharp, targeted, and limited response.”
The ongoing “muscle flexing” by both countries’ troops was reflective of the tense mood and also apparent in the “unremitting hostilities” on the Line of Control, the de facto border dividing Kashmir, he said.
Kashmir is split between India and Pakistan and claimed by both in its entirety.
They have fought two of their three wars over the stunning Himalayan region and their ties have been shaped by conflict, aggressive diplomacy and mutual suspicion, mostly due to their competing claims over Kashmir.
The latest flare-up led the two countries to expel each other’s diplomats and nationals, as well as the shuttering of airspace.
On Saturday, India suspended the exchange of all mail from Pakistan through air and surface routes and slapped an immediate ban on the direct and indirect import of all goods from its neighbor.
India has also banned Pakistaniflagged ships from entering its ports and prohibited Indian-flagged vessels from visiting Pakistani ports.
India’s military said Saturday that Pakistani troops had fired at positions across the border for a ninth consecutive night. The statement called the firing unprovoked and said Indian troops “responded promptly and proportionately.”
Pakistan did not confirm the exchange of fire at the Line of Control. The incident could not be independently verified. In the past, each
side has accused the other of starting border skirmishes.
Passions ran high among the Pakistanis who traveled to the Wagah crossing with India to see the famous flag-lowering ceremony.
The spectacle involves Pakistan’s Rangers and India’s border Security Force in a dramatic parade on either side of the crossing, with just a gate between them, their high kicks stretching skyward.
Shoaib-ur-Rehman said no other experience stirred such powerful feelings of patriotism in him and that he witnessed “extraordinary emotions” during Saturday’s ceremony.
Rehman expressed his opposition to a war with India, but said he would fight alongside Pakistan’s military if one broke out.
Sundas Batool wanted India to provide evidence about Pakistan’s involvement in the Pahalgam attack.
“The other side must have seen our energy, our spirit,” said Batool, referring to the crowds on the other side of the border. “My message to India is: We are ready for anything.”
Associated Press writers Aijaz Hussain, Rajesh Roy, and Babar Dogar contributed to this report from Srinigar, India; New Delhi, and Wagah, Pakistan.
Tensions flare: Japan and China trade accusations over airspace intrusions
By Mari Yamaguchi
TThe
Associated Press
OKYO — Japan and China have accused each other of violating the airspace around the Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands, which Beijing also claims.
The latest territorial flap came as both appeared to have warmer ties while seeking to mitigate damages from the US tariff war. Japan’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement it lodged a “very severe protest” with Beijing after a Chinese helicopter took off from one of China’s four coast guard boats, which had en -
tered Japan’s territorial waters around the Senkaku islands. The helicopter violated Japanese airspace for about 15 minutes on Saturday, the ministry said. The statement called the incident an “intrusion...into Japan’s territorial airspace” and urged the Chinese government to ensure preventive measures.
Japan’s Self-Defense Force scrambled fighter jets in response, according to the Defense Ministry. China also protested to Tokyo over a Japanese civilian aircraft violating its airspace around the islands, saying it was “strongly dissatisfied” about
Japan’s “severe violation of China’s sovereignty,” according to a statement by the Chinese embassy in Japan late Saturday.
China Coast Guard said it “immediately took necessary control measures against it in accordance with the law” and dispatched a ship-borne helicopter to warn and drive away the Japanese aircraft.
Japanese officials are investigating a possible connection between the Chinese coast guard helicopter’s airspace intrusion and the small Japanese civilian aircraft flying in the area around the same time.
China routinely sends coast guard
vessels and aircraft into waters and airspace surrounding the islands, which China calls the Diaoyu, to harass Japanese vessels in the area, forcing Japan to quickly mobilize its jets.
Saturday’s intrusion was the first by China since a Chinese reconnaissance aircraft violated the Japanese airspace off the southern prefecture of Nagasaki in August. Chinese aircraft have also violated the Japanese airspace around the Senkaku twice in the past.
Associated Press writer Huizhong Wu in Taipei contributed to this report.
Romanians vote in a presidential redo after voided election sparked deep political crisis
By Stephen Mcgrath The Associated Press
BUCHAREST, Romania—Romanians are casting ballots Sunday in a critical presidential election redo after last year’s annulled vote plunged the European Union and NATO member country into its worst political crisis in decades.
Eleven candidates are vying for the presidency and a May 18 runoff is expected. Polls opened at 7 a.m. (0400 GMT) and will close at 9 p.m. (1800 GMT). By 10 a.m. local time (0700GMT), 1.8 million people— about 10 percent of eligible voters—had cast ballots, according to the Central Election Bureau, with a massive 425,000 coming from voters abroad.
Romania’s political landscape was shaken last year when a top court voided the previous election in which the far-right outsider Calin Georgescu topped the first round, following allegations of electoral violations and Russian interference, which Moscow has denied.
Like many countries in the EU, antiestablishment sentiment is running high in Romania, fueled by high inflation and cost of living, a large budget deficit and a sluggish economy. Observers say the malaise has bolstered support for nationalist and far-right figures like Georgescu, who is under investigation and barred from the rerun.
While data from local surveys should be taken with caution, a median of polls suggests that hard-right nationalist George Simion will enter the runoff, likely pitting him against Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan, or the governing coalition’s candidate, Crin Antonescu.
At a polling station in the capital, Bucharest, Simion appeared Sunday morning alongside Georgescu and told reporters: “We are here with one mission only: the return to constitutional order, the return to democracy. I have no other goal than first place for the Romanian people.”
For his part, Georgescu called the vote rerun “a fraud orchestrated by those who have made deceit the only state policy,” but that he was there to “acknowledge the power of democracy, the power of the vote that frightens the system, that terrifies the system.”
Dan, a 55-year-old mathematician and former anti-corruption activist who
founded the Save Romania Union party (USR) in 2016, is running on a pro-EU “Honest Romania” ticket. After casting his ballot, Dan said he voted “for hope and a new beginning” for Romania. “I voted with realism, because Romania is going through a difficult time,” he said.
Veteran centrist Antonescu, 65, who campaigned on retaining Romania’s proWestern orientation, said Sunday morning that he voted for “a united Romania, for a strong Romania, for a dignified Romania.” Victor Ponta, a former prime minister between 2012 and 2015, has also pushed a MAGA-style “Romania First” campaign and boasts of having close ties to the Trump administration.
Another hopeful, Elena Lasconi, came second in last year’s first round ballot and is participating in the rerun. She has positioned herself as a staunchly pro-Western, anti-system candidate, railing against what she describes as a corrupt political class. Distrust in the authorities remains widespread, especially for those who voted for Georgescu, a sizeable electorate that Simion has sought to tap into.
“The anti-establishment sentiment is not like an anarchic movement, but is against the people who destroyed this country,” Simion, who came fourth in last year’s race and later backed Georgescu, told The Associated Press days before the rerun. “We are not a democratic state anymore.” Simion said that his hard-right nationalist Alliance for the Unity of Romanians party is “perfectly aligned with the MAGA movement,” capitalizing on a growing wave of populism in Europe after US President Donald Trump’s political comeback. AUR rose to prominence in a 2020 parliamentary election, proclaims to stand for “family, nation, faith, and freedom,” and has since doubled its support. The election redo is a crossroads moment for Romania as it seeks to restore its democracy and retain its geopolitical alliances, which have become strained since the canceled election fiasco. The decision to annul the election and the ban on Georgescu’s candidacy drew criticism from US Vice President JD Vance, Elon Musk and Russia, which publicly supported his candidacy in the rerun. The presidential role carries a five-year term and significant decision-making powers in national security and foreign policy.
Coffee, fertilizer prices higher in April–report
IBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
NTERNATIONAL prices of certain commodities being traded by the Philippines continued to rise in April, based on the World Bank’s latest report.
Figures from the World Bank showed that prices of coffee varieties like arabica and robusta sustained their upward momentum last month as the market was buffeted by supply shortfalls linked to lingering effects of weatherrelated shocks.
Average arabica prices surged by 63.95 percent to $8.64 per kilo in April from $5.27 per kilo recorded in the same period last year. The average quotation of robusta va -
riety jumped by 28.37 percent to $5.43 per kilo from $4.23 per kilo.
The World Bank projected that the average quotations of arabica and robusta varieties will settle at $8.50 per kilo and $5.50 per kilo, respectively, in 2025. These figures were higher than the average prices of both varieties last year, at $5.62 per kilo and $4.41 per kilo, respectively. Despite this, the international organization expects prices of
Cocoa supply woes worsen as quality in Ivory Coast declines
COCOA grinders in Ivory Coast, the world’s top producer, are struggling with poorquality beans with unusually high levels of waste material mixed into deliveries arriving from farms, piling on pressure to an already tight global market.
With the country’s mid-crop harvest now underway, the quality of the beans is poorer compared to the same period in previous seasons, according to two grinders, who asked not be identified discussing private information. Grinders, many of which are also major exporters, are now rejecting truckloads of beans or facing higher costs to clean and sort them, they said.
The smaller mid-crop typically produces tinier beans that are reserved for processing locally into products like cocoa butter that are key to producing chocolate, but this harvest’s crop is unusually low quality, the people said. The issues could mean more pressure on supplies after back-to-back annual shortages, which drove New York futures to record levels late last year.
While a small surplus is expected in the current season, the market remains strained and prices are well above historical levels. Cocoa futures in New York closed out April with a 12.5-percent jump, the first monthly gain since December.
About 5 percent to 6 percent of cocoa in each truckload is poor quality, compared with 1 percent during the main crop, according to one grinder. Another said they have seen as much as 15 percent of some
truckloads contain inferior beans.
Bean size is a key indicator of cocoa quality. Smaller beans require more processing, making them less attractive. The additional impurities in the supplies — like small stems, stones and remnants of the tissue that attaches the beans to the cocoa pod — have compounded the problem, two of the people said.
The particulate is difficult to sieve or vacuum from the supply, given it is often about the same size as the beans, they added. But leaving it in risks breaking or damaging machinery.
Ivory Coast’s cocoa regulator, Le Conseil du Cafe-Cacao, said the matter has been discussed with the main union of exporters and grinders. While the proportion of impurities is within the regulator’s threshold so far, it is monitoring for shipments that arrive with higher levels of foreign matter.
The cause for the poor quality of beans isn’t entirely clear. One grinder speculated that growers or middlemen who acquire cocoa from farms may be less diligent about sorting beans, given the tightness on the world market. Farmgate prices in Ivory Coast, although well below international levels, have progressively climbed in recent seasons.
Cocoa quality concerns had also flared late last year after weeks of rains lashed the main growing areas, making it difficult to dry the beans properly. Bloomberg New s
these varieties to ease in 2026, primarily driven by higher arabica output in Colombia, the world’s second-largest arabica producer.
However, the World Bank said certain factors could dampen this upbeat outlook.
“This baseline forecast is subject to significant risks, particularly the upside risk that low rainfall and above-average temperatures earlier in the year could negatively affect the 2025–26 harvest in Brazil, the world’s leading coffee producer.”
Data from the World Bank also indicated that fertilizers like urea were more expensive last month due to stronger demand and production shortfalls. Average urea quotations climbed to $386.9 per metric ton (MT), from $320 per MT last year.
The international organization said it expects quotations of urea to rise by 15 percent this year to $390 per MT, higher than the $338
per MT average in 2024.
Corn prices also climbed by 12.15 percent to $215 per MT last month from $191.7 per MT in the previous year as “hotter and drierthan-normal weather in parts of South America” boosted quotations for the staple crop.
The World Bank, however,
expects prices of the key crop to edge down by 2 percent this year at $187 per MT, due to increased tariffs on US-China trade and lower crude oil prices, “which reduce demand for ethanol, and thereby for maize.”
As for the Philippines’ top farm export, World Bank figures showed
that the average prices of coconut oil swelled by 74.25 percent to $2,483 per MT in April from $1,425 per MT.
Given the sustained increase in prices of the tropical oil, the World Bank said average coconut oil quotations will settle at $1,800 per MT this year. This figure is higher than the average price of $1,519 per MT recorded in 2024.
Among the metal prices, however, World Bank data indicated that only global quotations of tin registered an increase in April. Tin prices inched up by 2.49 percent to $32,565 per MT last month from $31,775 per MT in the previous year. It expects the average prices of tin to reach $31,000 per MT this year and $31,500 per MT in 2026 amid the steady growth in demand, “reaching near-record nominal levels on an annual average basis.” Its average price stood at $30,066 per MT in 2024.
Local planters told to embrace sustainable practices
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is urging planters to adopt sustainable farming practices amid the threats posed by adverse climate conditions, population growth, and shrinking plantations.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stressed that transforming the country’s agricultural landscape is critical as frenetic weather patterns upend farming routine, leaving planters vulnerable.
“In the Philippines, climate change is not an abstract concept. Our farmers live with its impact every day. From typhoons that devastate harvests to droughts that parch fields to unpredictable seasons that unsettle even the most experienced growers,” he said in a statement.
“These phenomena are occurring more frequently. That is a clear warning that our agricultural practices must change as well.”
As an archipelagic nation, the DA noted that building a resilient agricultural sector is vital to ensuring long-term food security, economic stability, and inclusive job growth.
Among the agency’s responses to boost resilience and productivity are revised cropping calendars, greenhouse farming with fertigation systems, and alternate wetting and drying technologies for water conservation. It is also rolling out mobile soil laboratories to optimize land use and enhance yields.
However, the DA added that promoting precision and regenerative agriculture is crucial to
this proposed shift, since it allows farmers to use fewer resources while increasing output and minimizing losses.
Equally important is the need to attract younger generations to farming, with the current average age of Filipino farmers at over 55 years old. This would include introducing programs like startup incubators, digital mentorships, and scholarship opportunities.
“Technical solutions alone are not enough. Building resilience also means investing in the people who feed us.”
The DA noted that it is expanding crop insurance coverage, improving early warning systems, and providing localized climate advisories to empower farmers with timely, informed choices.
The agri chief said public-pri -
Govt writes off debt of farmers in Samar
By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
THE unpaid land amortizations of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in Samar amounting to P8 million have been condoned by the government, according to the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).
DAR said it recently conducted a two-day simultaneous distribution of Certificate of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROM) in Jiabong, Samar.
Its office in Region 8 awarded a total of 690 COCROMs and 100 Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) covering 728.3497 hectares of agricultural land to ARBs in the cities of Catbalogan and Calbayog and 16 municipalities in Samar.
“We are so grateful for the
help given to us by the President, relieving us of our financial burden,” said Juliana Cabubas, one of the beneficiaries, who received condonation for her 1,893-square meter farm lot awarded under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).
The simultaneous distribution was led by DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II) Segundino Pagliawan in the municipalities of Basey, Marabut, Pinabacdao, Sta. Rita, and Villareal, Land Tenure Improvement Division Chief Engr. Lucena Mancol in Gandara, San Jorge, Sta. Margarita and Tarangnan; and PARPO I Josefina Amande in Jiabong, Daram, Zumarraga, Hinabangan, San Sebastian, Motiong, Paranas, and Catbalogan City.
The mass condonation was
made possible through Republic Act 11953 or the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, which cancels unpaid principal amortizations, interest, and penalties on lands awarded under the agrarian reform program.
In addition, 92 ARBs received CLOAs during the event. including 87 individual e-titles under the World Bank-funded Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) Project.
Five (5) ARBs received CLOAs for newly awarded agricultural lands.
Farm-to-market road
DAR said it has also completed the 1.5-kilometer Collago to Lucgay Farm-to-Market Road (FMR), a P24.56-million project designed to improve mobility and ensure access to the municipality of Lagayan.
‘Mindanao needs more support to hike food output’
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
WITH the right budgetary support for the agriculture sector, senatorial aspirant Francis Pangilinan said Mindanao can fulfill its potential as the country’s food basket.
“They say Mindanao is the land of promise. But for so long the promise continues to remain unfulfilled. It does not get enough support, considering it is supposedly the food basket of the country,” Pangilinan said in his speech during the campaign rally of Marawi
City Mayor Majul Gandamra.
To turn that promise into reality, Pangilinan said Congress must allocate an additional P100 billion to the Department of Agriculture each year for the next six years, bringing its total budget to P800 billion.
“We can bring down the price of rice and other foods. And to do that, for the entire six year term of a President, we must allow P100 billion yearly to the budget of agriculture and fisheries. So that after the end of 6 years, our agriculture budget should be P800B,” he said, partly in Filipino.
Pangilinan said this funding must directly benefit farmers and fisherfolk by supporting mechanization, fertilizer and input subsidies, postharvest facilities, cold storage, and farm-to-market roads.
Meanwhile, he thanked Marawi City residents for their continued trust, noting that he won in the city during his past three senatorial campaigns.
“For those three terms, because pinagkatiwalaan niyo ako, binigay niyo sa akin ang inyong tiwala, tiniyak ko na hindi ako nagtaksil, hindi tayo ni minsan nasangkot sa anumang
vate partnerships are essential to scaling up these efforts, such as collaborations with agribusinesses, financial institutions, and global partners. These aim to codevelop inclusive value chains, widen access to capital, and bring modern technologies even to smallholder farms.
“Our Agri-Puhunan at Pantawid Program provides affordable, insured loans and a ready market to ensure stable farmer incomes,” he said, noting that it would soon expand to other agricultural sectors aside from rice.
“By embracing innovation, supporting its farmers, and building strong cross-sector partnerships, the country can create a foodsecure future that is economically robust and environmentally sound. Ada Pelonia
The road, which began construction in July 2024, directly benefits more than 1,170 households by easing the transport of goods, improving access to markets, and supporting increased farm productivity, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) said.
“This road is a huge help to our ARBs. Before, we struggled to transport our agricultural produce to trading centers, using just a narrow one-lane path,” said Mario Montero Casibo, president of the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in Lagayan. Now completed, the road is expected to spur economic activity and improve access to essential services for the 4,800 residents of Lagayan.
More than just a road, the Collago to Lucgay FMR represents a lifeline to opportunity, economic empowerment, and a stronger future for Abra’s farming communities, the DAR said.
kaso o anomalya.” He called on residents to choose candidates with solid track records and proven accomplishments and to reject those who have remained silent on critical issues hounding the country, such as corruption.
“Tingnan natin kung may involvement sa graft and corruption sa mga senador. Tingnan natin sino ang may nagawa. Tingnan natin sino ang nanahimik kapag may kaso ng katiwalaan na hini -hearing.” Pangilinan was joined by his wife, Megastar Sharon CunetaPangilinan, who serenaded the crowd with her hit song “Kung Kailangan Mo Ako” to loud applause and cheers from the audience.
COFFEE beans are roasted at a shop in Hanoi, Vietnam, on Tuesday, August 30, 2022. BLOOMBERG
A crisis in literacy amid graduation celebrations in PHL
THE revelation that 18 million Filipino students graduated between 2019 and 2024 while being functionally illiterate is a shocking indictment of our basic education system. This alarming statistic, brought to light during the Senate Committee on Basic Education’s hearing on the 2024 Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS), demands immediate and comprehensive action. The central question we must confront is: How did we arrive at this point, especially after the implementation of the K-to-12 curriculum, which was designed to enhance the quality of education and prepare students for the 21st century?
The K-to-12 program, while intended to align the Philippines with international standards and provide students with more comprehensive skills, has placed significant financial and academic burdens on families and students. Parents have had to shoulder additional expenses for school supplies, uniforms, and other educational needs. Students, in turn, have faced increased pressure to perform well in a more demanding curriculum. Yet, despite these sacrifices, a significant number of senior high school graduates lack the fundamental literacy skills necessary to navigate everyday life and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Philippine Statistics Authority’s revised definition of “functional literacy” is a crucial factor in understanding the magnitude of the problem. The new definition includes higher-level comprehension skills, moving beyond basic reading, writing, and numeracy. Unlike the 2019 definition, which automatically categorized high school graduates as functionally literate, the 2024 definition recognizes that many graduates still struggle with comprehension. This change in definition has exposed the uncomfortable truth that a significant portion of our graduates are ill-equipped to meet the demands of the modern world.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, rightly points out the fundamental flaw in the system: students are graduating without achieving functional literacy, which should be the very basic goal of basic education. The fact that 21 percent of senior high school graduates are not functionally literate, according to FLEMMS data, is a clear indication that something is seriously amiss. Reports of 15-year-olds unable to read a simple story further underscore the severity of the situation.
The Department of Education must take proactive steps to address this crisis. The continued implementation of the revised K to 10 curriculum, the strengthening of the Early Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (ELLNA) Program, learning loss remediation, gender-responsive interventions, and the implementation of the ARAL Program are all steps in the right direction. However, these initiatives must be implemented effectively and with a clear focus on improving functional literacy outcomes.
Furthermore, it is essential to address the underlying factors that contribute to functional illiteracy. These may include inadequate teacher training, a lack of resources, overcrowded classrooms, and socio-economic disparities. A comprehensive approach that tackles these challenges is necessary to ensure that all Filipino students have the opportunity to acquire the literacy skills they need to succeed.
The future of the Philippines depends on the ability of its citizens to read, understand, and apply information effectively. We cannot afford to ignore the alarming reality of functional illiteracy among our graduates. It is time for a serious and sustained effort to reform our education system and ensure that every Filipino student has the chance to become a functionally literate and productive member of society.
Opinion
Evolving traditions, modern love
IRISING SUN
’M sure most of us have noticed that Mother’s Day celebrations in the Philippines are going through a quiet evolution, shaped by changing family dynamics, technology, and even economic realities. While the rituals of gifting our moms with flowers or going out to lunch with the whole family remain, the ways we honor mothers are expanding—and becoming more creative, personal, and practical.
In 2021, food delivery apps reported a 40 percent spike in spending and a 30 percent increase in orders during Mother’s Day, even surpassing Christmas Day traffic. Apparently, for many, the family feast now arrives in cardboard boxes.
For Filipinos working overseas, it’s not always possible to celebrate Mother’s Day in person. So for them, technology bridges distances, and FaceTime will have to do. Many also
send their moms balikbayan boxes packed with treats—chocolates, perfume, accessories, bags, and even secondhand gadgets—meticulously gathered over months and shipped home in time for the big day. These boxes are more than just gifts; they’re tangible reminders of love and sacrifice, connecting families across continents and time zones.
Closer to home, many families still handcraft cards or cook their
mother’s favorite dish, while others send “money bouquets.” These elaborate arrangements of cash— sometimes nestled among real or artificial flowers—have become a trendy, practical alternative to traditional blooms. With prices ranging from a few thousand to over P65,000, money bouquets are both a gesture of appreciation and a way to give moms the freedom to treat themselves however they prefer. It is important to note at this point that, according to recent surveys, despite all the creative gifts and grand gestures, what most Filipino moms cherish most on Mother’s Day is simply quality time with their families. According to the GrabAds SEA Mother’s Day Insights Report 2023, spending time together—whether by sharing a meal, ordering favorite dishes, or just enjoying each other’s company at home—tops the list of what mothers and families look forward to on this special day.
More families are also now booking bonding experiences like spa days, flower arrangement work-
shops, or even pottery classes. Instead of just dining out, children treat their moms to a day of relaxation at a top Manila spa or enroll together in creative workshops—like learning to craft hand-tied bouquets or shaping clay for firing. These shared experiences create new memories and offer a refreshing break from the daily grind.
For many, Mother’s Day is also a day of remembrance. White carnations are worn to honor mothers who have passed, and families gather at cemeteries or light candles at home. But perhaps the most important shift is a growing recognition that motherhood isn’t one-size-fits-all. We honor not just biological mothers, but grandmothers, aunts, solo parents, and even those who step into the role unexpectedly. We remember mothers who are gone and support those who struggle. In a country like the Philippines, Mother’s Day is less about perfection and more about presence, about showing up in whatever way we can.
Call for accountability and transparency in govt spending
ADEBIT CREDIT
S we approach the forthcoming May 2025 elections, it is imperative that we, as citizens and taxpayers, demand greater accountability, transparency, and stewardship from all those who seek to lead and serve our communities.
Public funds, sourced from the hard-earned contributions from taxes of the Filipino people, are entrusted to our elected officials to promote development, uplift lives, and serve the public good. The proper and efficient use of these funds is not only a legal obligation but a moral one—a duty that must be observed rigorously and continuously by elected officials as well as bureaucrats in government.
We, especially Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), know and adhere to the principles of accountability and transparency. We have learned these virtues since we studied for our accounting course, ingrained these in passing our licensure examinations, and pursued these morals in our daily lives and work or practice of our profession.
These virtues of accountability and transparency regarding public funds are more in focus now in the forthcoming elections scheduled on May 12, 2025. We are all aghast at the many anomalies and irregularities in the use of public moneys now happening in our country. In the past months (and way back many years), we have witnessed instances
of government irregularities in the use of public funds, including budget diversions, pork barrel spending, inflated budgets for agencies, irregular budget utilization, unprogrammed appropriations, bidding of highly priced and sub-standard infrastructure projects, and many other cases of irregularities and corruption. Definitely all of these evils were perpetuated due to the absence of accountability and transparency from those involved in the use of these funds.
In the forthcoming elections, in addition to scrutinizing the campaign promises of candidates running for electoral office, we all should be demanding from them whether they have been true to these principles of accountability and transparency.
I call on my fellow CPAs and my co-voters to scrutinize whether the persons they will be electing to these public offices have been following and advocating the tenets of accountability and transparency in the management of public funds. Have they included accountability and full transparency in their campaign platform? Have they account-
ed for the utilization of the funds from the government budget that they received or are responsible for?
Have they allocated these for the betterment of communities? Have they practiced transparency and reporting of the progress and completion of their projects that were funded by government funds?
One such candidate running for election this May 2025 is a fellow CPA. Heidi Mendoza is running for senator and she espouses very strongly the need for accountability and transparency over public funds. From her website (https://heidimendoza.com/ ), Heidi Mendoza is “the former Commissioner of the Commission on Audit, an advocate of good governance and a champion of procurement reform. She is recognized as one of the outstanding auditors in the country as she conducted several audits which uncovered procurement fraud and other irregularities, resulting in cases being filed in court.” She served as Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) Office of Internal Oversight Services from 2015 to 2019, a very prestigious and important position in the institution. I visited Heidi several times in her UN office, where we had good discussions on the need for an effective internal or external audit on the various funds of private and government organizations. I definitely will put Heidi as my number one choice in the senatoriable list. I encourage the over 200,000 CPAs (or those still alive) to vote for our fellow CPA for senator. I am sure that there will be millions of others who will vote the same.
On the flip side, I share my sentiments on the election situation for the Third District (District) of Quezon
City, where I am registered to vote. There are two candidates for Congress to represent the district. The incumbent, Franz Pumaren, is running for his second term. The other is Allan Reyes, the congressman of the District from 2019 to 2022 and a city councilor for a decade before that. During the term of Pumaren, the District was appropriated P5.712 billion in infrastructure funding from 2022 to 2024, based on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Annual Infrastructure Programs. In a Facebook video ( https://www.facebook.com/ reel/1172635744073352), Pumaren declared that the District was allocated P3.5 billion for 2025, coming from President Marcos and Speaker Martin Romualdez. That comes up to P9.3 billion of public funds allotted to the District arising from the efforts of Pumaren. Ordinarily, this would be a feather in the cap of Pumaren for having been able to convince the budget and top administration officials to allocate this gargantuan sum for infrastructure for his district for three years. However, Pumaren should explain to his constituents and the electorate the status of the implementation of infrastructure projects started in his term and how this relates to our aspirations for accountability and transparency. It is quite revealing that the DPWH website discloses that at least P285 million worth of projects under Pumaren’s current term remain unfinished or delayed. Furthermore, in April 2025, a formal complaint was submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman and the Commission on Audit regarding unfinished and See “Debit Credit,” A17
Atty. Jose Ferdinand M. Rojas II
Joel L. Tan-Torres
Back to basics Trump tariffs and the exercise of political will
DDr. Jesus Lim Arranza
MAKE SENSE
ESPITE what critics, naysayers, and analysts are saying, President Donald Trump continues to give indications that his administration’s new tariff policies will push through, although with tweaks as he reacts to how the US trade partners and businesses are responding.
Now, Trump is like picking apples, as world leaders send their desire to work out bilateral deals that will correct their trade imbalances. Suddenly, he is getting concessions favorable to US interests. Trump succeeded in moving global trade; the world is dancing to his tune. Before, as Trump himself noted, no country was taking trade negotiations with Washington seriously anymore because the US was already imposing very minimal to zero tariffs.
Now, with his reciprocal and Section 232 tariffs, trade partners are rushing to close a deal with the US before the end of the 90-day pause on the implementation of his Executive Order on July 8. Experts are saying Trump’s formula for computing reciprocal tariffs was erroneous, particularly pointing out that he should have factored in the effect of tariffs on import prices instead of the effect of tariffs on consumer or retail prices. Their comment was: “Their mistake is that they base the elasticity on the response of retail prices to tariffs, as opposed to import prices as they should have done.” Had Trump not made this error, the resulting reciprocal tariffs would have been lower, they say. However, these critics are not getting the point: the policy should conform to the objectives. Trump wants to make the trade partners feel the pinch of higher tariffs and compel them to negotiate with the US, so naturally the Trump administration wants to use a formula that would yield higher tariffs.
Keep in mind that Trump is an avid golfer. In this game, if you want to correct a mistake, you need to exaggerate the opposite feel. So, let’s say you want to correct an overswing in your backswing, the cure is to exaggerate the feel of making only a half swing or a quarter swing. This exaggeration will neutralize the overswing. And this is what Trump is doing: he is exaggerating the reciprocal tariffs to correct the trade imbalances.
Second, Trump’s well-thought-out EO included Sections 3(f) and 4, where the brilliance is magnified, but sadly the naysayers are not highlighting in their commentaries.
Section 3(f), which states: “More generally, the ad valorem rates of duty set forth in this order shall apply only to the non-US content of a subject article, provided at least 20 percent of the value of the subject article is US originating...” encourages trade partners to either buy from US manufacturers for components
abandoned infrastructure projects within the District. Though not directly related to this issue on transparency and accountability, it is to be noted that in 2017, the Bureau of Internal Revenue filed the complaint against retail company All Best Chodvale Development Incorporated and its president, Mr. Pumaren, for allegedly failing to pay taxes amounting to more than P20.45 million in 2009. I mentioned this since the payment of taxes is a civic duty that all of us must comply with, especially politicians running for re-election.
I am not pre-judging the cases filed against Mr. Pumaren. He has the right to defend himself against these accusations. However, Pumaren should be accountable and transparent in addressing these.
As for Allan Reyes, let me disclose that I personally know Allan, having collaborated with him with the Philippine Institute of Accountants Metro-Manila Chapter in a tax information project for taxpayers of the District in 2022. I also know from
Ior set up manufacturing facilities on American soil. This is consistent with his objective of reviving manufacturing activities and creating more jobs.
Section 4, or the “Modification Authority,” allows Trump to adjust according to the actions taken by trade partners, including the flexibility to deal with (or punish) those that will retaliate, and reward a trading partner that will take significant steps to remedy non-reciprocal trade arrangements and align sufficiently with the United States on economic and national security matters.
China retaliated and got slapped with even higher tariffs.
The rest of the world took the other route and opted to negotiate with the US on how they could give better market access to US-made goods so as not to suffer the consequences of the higher reciprocal and Section 232 tariffs.
Now, China and US are gearing up for more serious trade talks because of what Trump laid on the table.
Indeed, Trump is getting the effects that he wanted.
His critics were quick to harp their economic doomsday predictions, not appreciating the depth of Trump’s intentions. Don’t get swayed because as they say, “shallow waters are noisy.” Pause for a while and look deeper.
Trump is showing the world how an exercise of political will can do wonders. The governments of the trading partners, including the Philippines, will also need this kind of political will because, naturally, their decisions will not make everybody happy.
Some interests will be sacrificed for the better good.
Our plea is for the government to make sure that our exporters will not lose their competitiveness versus those of our Asian competitors due to differences in the US applied tariffs. Our exporters generate taxes for the government and provide jobs to our people, and the fact they are able to establish a footprint in the US market shows their commitment to global competitiveness. Please emulate Trump’s political will and move fast because the clock is ticking.
Dr. Jesus Lim Arranza is the chairman of the Federation of Philippine Industries and Fight Illicit Trade; a broad-based, multisectoral movement intended to protect consumers, safeguard government revenues and shield legitimate industries from the ill effects of smuggling.
various sources that Reyes continued his advocacies on education, livelihood, and providing employment opportunities to the people in the District, even though he was outside government and politics for the past few years. I will also vote for Allan Reyes as congressman for the Third District.
As we approach election day, let’s reflect deeply on the traits that we expect and should demand from those seeking public office. We hold firm to the principle that accountability and transparency (and ethical practice) are the core of public service. Let’s be aware, vigilant, and firm in holding our candidates for elective positions to their commitment to the virtues that we hold dear and key for us to move forward as a progressive country.
We deserve nothing less. Let our votes matter. Vote wisely.
Joel L. Tan-Torres was the former Dean of the
Siegfred Bueno Mison, Esq.
THE
PATRIOT
N a few days, millions of voters will again choose leaders of this country. There will be runaway winners, close fights, and candidates cruising to an unopposed campaign. Runaway winners are expected where the opposition has minuscule resources compared to the incumbent, whereas close fights will usually occur in places where powerful dynastic families or political parties are fighting for that office. Since the incumbent can no longer run as a candidate due to term limits as provided by the Constitution, the post is for the taking. What puzzles me is the tendency of most “retiring” incumbents to allow, encourage, or convince their family members to take their place as if the seat to be vacated are subject to “family succession.”
Using the equity of the incumbent, these candidates heavily rely on the brand of their predecessors as their primary credential for public office. For instance, I am baffled why the Commission on Elections (Comelec) would allow a Makati mayoral candidate to have his name listed on the official ballot as “CAMPOS, ABBYLUIS,” when in truth, his name is just Luis Campos, no “Abby.” Although he has served in Congress in multiple terms, Luis Campos decided to leverage on the powerful Binay name, by using the name of his wife and Makati’s outgoing three-term mayor, Abby, both in his campaign materials and official ballot. If I were part of Comelec, I would push for the official name as reflected in the candidate’s birth certificate to be the only name for use and registered in the official ballot. It will be easier to administer; just register the name as exactly indicated in the duly issued birth certificate. Back to basics. There should be no need for some exceptions that can make room for distorted arguments or rationalization. Actors and celebrities will be included as in the case of former and come-backing Manila mayor Isko Moreno whose real name is Francisco Moreno Domagoso and Mocha Uson whose real name is Esther Margaux Justiniano Uson. Should they want to make use of their more popular names (Isko or Mocha) or create an association to someone else (AbbyLuis), they should be required to make the proper court action to amend the entries in their
birth certificates.
But what bewilders me the most is the fact that in reputable surveys across the country, political dynasties remain as the frontrunners in their respective contests. Some argue that not all are “bad leaders.” Others say it will take a miracle for them to be replaced as they are well-entrenched as if the position is already “family-owned.” And whenever family is threatened by another, chaos is expected as these powerful families have their private armies to protect and defend their “territory.”
Anticipating such scenario, Comelec has trained more than 9,000 police officers who can be tapped to serve on special electoral boards for the May 12 elections.
In case some teachers walk out or abandon their posts as members of the Electoral Boards (EB) due to violence or intimidation, these police officers shall assume the functions of the EB, primary of which is to protect the sanctity of the vote. Comelec Spokesman Rex Laudiangco said this police deployment and deputization has been a standard practice in compliance with the Election Service Reform Act where election-related violence were reported or expected primarily due to these fiefdom-like turf wars.
One political analyst said that most of these candidates would go this far simply because of “The Pot,” being the public funds entrusted to them as well as the power to make more money for themselves. Hence, the supposed budget of running a
But what bewilders me the most is the fact that in reputable surveys across the country, political dynasties remain as the frontrunners in their respective contests.
campaign has ballooned to millions of pesos (for senatorial posts, it is now in the billions), which can include certain amounts for security and “special operations.” In recent years, the battleground has shifted to cyberspace with IT professionals, Internet whiz, and social media bloggers making a profitable business out of every election campaign. The days of guns and gold are slowly being replaced with massive disinformation through the use of free speech, often abused. Fortunately, every Filipino voter still has the free will to choose which news items to “click and share”, which messengers to believe when it comes to these information available online to guide them wisely in choosing our next set of leaders. In an interview, retired PNP General Cesar Hawthorne Binag was sought his personal opinion when it comes to voting wisely. His message was plain and simple —Filipinos should remember that they are believers of the Almighty God first, Filipinos second. Using the term Christian-Filipino, Binag, who served as the Deputy Chief for Operations of the PNP before retiring in 2021, sincerely believes that a wise Filipino voter would use Biblical “information” foremost over all these information propagated by campaign strategists.
Since a large majority of the voting population are people of faith, at least according to statistics not necessarily in practice, then these voters are expected to elect candidates who are God-fearing at the very least. In the Bible, Proverbs 9:10 tells us that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” For Binag and the rest of the Christian-Filipino voters in this country, myself included, the fear of God is foundational to true wisdom. All voter education programs are worthless unless built upon a knowledge of the Lord. I am not surprised by what Binag, my PMA classmate and former Commandant of Cadets at the Philippine National Police Academy, has been promoting all along. After all, Binag also served
as the Chairman of the Christian Officers Reform the Police Service (CORPS) Movement, which has been trying to inculcate a God-centered, service-oriented and family-based culture within the PNP. Binag implemented the Bless Our Cops and My Brothers’ Keeper programs, both aimed to reorient police officers that they are followers of Jesus Christ first, before being followers of their respective chains of command in the police force. I hope that the police officers selected and trained to serve as potential members of the Special EB in these coming elections have taken the BOC or the MBK programs in the PNP, aside from the special training conducted by the Comelec. Much has been accomplished for the 2025 elections, but there is still much more to be done in the future. In a public forum, Comelec Spokesman Rex Laudiangco passionately explained the transparency initiatives where voters can audit their votes as casted in the automated counting machines, and where system hacking and other cyber-related nefarious activities can be prevented if not minimized. In that same forum, The Agenda at Club Filipino, General Binag invoked the Word of God in imparting his brotherly advice to all Christian-Filipino voters: “Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Voters need not fear violence or intimidation from these private armies of political families; we must not fear voting against guns or gold. Voting wisely entails choosing leaders who are wise whose wisdom comes from the fear of the Lord. The Church and all of us followers of Jesus Christ can do more to remind everyone around us to elect God-fearing candidates. It is not only wise, but it is back to basics.
A former infantry and intelligence officer in the Army, Siegfred Mison showcased his servant leadership philosophy in organizations such as the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Malcolm Law Offices, Infogix Inc., University of the East, Bureau of Immigration, and Philippine Airlines. He is a graduate of West Point in New York, Ateneo Law School, and University of Southern California. A corporate lawyer by profession, he is an inspirational teacher and a Spirit-filled writer with a mission. For questions and comments, please e-mail me at sbmison@gmail.com.
Senator Coseteng warns of paranoia against the Chinoys
TLITO GAGNI
HERE is a rising crescendo of fear—a manufactured fear—being ignited against the Chinese-Filipino community. It is a fear not rooted in truth, but in theatrics. Not anchored in facts, but inflamed by conjecture. Former Senator Nikki Coseteng, a proud Filipina of Chinese heritage, has pierced through the fog of suspicion to call out what she sees as a disturbing orchestration of events aimed at vilifying an entire community.
A wave—subtle yet sinister—is cresting across the nation: a swell of suspicion, a surge of sensationalism, a storm of simultaneous public hearings, arrests, and unverified claims of foreign meddling. All converge under a single spotlight—trained on the Chinoy community, a people woven into the very tapestry of the Philippine republic. Long partners in progress, they now find themselves unjustly recast as suspects in their own homeland.
Senator Coseteng, speaking at the Agenda Forum in Club Filipino, warned of this dangerous drift. The pattern, she argued, is too pointed to be coincidental. “Sudden simultaneous occurrences,” she said, suggest not the pursuit of truth, but the pursuit of an agenda—one that sacrifices a minority to feed the flames of national insecurity. Indeed, the mass hysteria against the Chinoys can be seen orchestrated in various media. These are not mere political
stunts. They come with a heavy price: they fracture communities, they plant seeds of suspicion, they cultivate a climate of hate. They undermine the quiet heroism of generations of Chinoy families who have built schools, established businesses, supported charities, and served the country with honor—from barangay halls to the halls of Congress. Why, the Chinoy community has even set up an umbrella organization for the various chapters it had set up in the provinces, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry that oversee the various assistance the Chinoys do for the Filipino community. And yet, all of that help the Chinoys do for the country that includes caring for the flooded communities is under threat. Their concern for their fellow Filipinos is now being eclipsed by the dark cloud of Sinophobia. And to think that it is a fact that the first responders to fire incidents are the
Coseteng, whose lineage traces back to Eduardo Coseteng— former Mayor of Xiamen and co-founder of Equitable Bank— has lived both the legacy and the promise of integration. Educated in Philippine schools and having served as both congresswoman and senator, she stands as proof that identity is not a dichotomy but a dialogue. She is Chinese in heritage, Filipino in heart—and fiercely committed to national unity.
Chinoy volunteers who sacrifice not just their time but their safety just to ensure that the fires that engulf communities are taken care of—immediately.
Coseteng, whose lineage traces back to Eduardo Coseteng—former Mayor of Xiamen and co-founder of Equitable Bank—has lived both the legacy and the promise of integration. Educated in Philippine schools and having served as both congresswoman and senator, she stands as proof that identity is not a dichotomy but a dialogue. She is Chinese in heritage, Filipino in heart—and fiercely committed to national unity.
It is from this vantage point that she sounds the alarm: “The unfounded accusations of politicians on Chinese spying,” she warns, “have unduly sown suspicion and mistrust… aggravating the growing Sinophobia in the country.” In a sense, what begins as whispers soon snowballs into hostility. What starts as speculation
can spiral into persecution. History has taught us that fear, when stoked for too long, becomes fire. When a Chinoy child is bullied, when a business is boycotted, when a neighbor becomes a suspect merely for being of Chinese descent—then the damage has already been done. And in such moments, silence is complicity.
“We’ve seen this before,” Coseteng said. And indeed, we have—across countries and continents, where minorities were vilified and violence was rationalized. We cannot allow the Philippines to follow the same path. We must rise before the tipping point tips us over.
“There’s no substitute for peace,” Coseteng declared, “and anyone who says otherwise is like a mad dog frothing in the mouth.” In that one vivid line lies a profound truth: that peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of mutual respect. It is not born of fear, but of fairness.
Let us not mistake paranoia for patriotism. Let us not confuse speculation with security. Let us not allow national pride to be wielded as a weapon against fellow Filipinos. To defend the Chinoy community today is to defend the soul of the Republic itself. Because when one group is scapegoated, every citizen becomes less free. Let our nationalism not ring hollow with hate, but resound with harmony. Let it be a song of solidarity, not a siren of suspicion. We stand at a crossroads—between fear and fairness, between division and dignity. May we choose wisely. May we choose peace.
Monday, May 5, 2025
BusinessMirror
DBM to GOCCs: Use pre-’24 subsidies to cover fund gaps
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) directed all state-run firms to utilize their unused subsidies from years prior to 2024 to cover additional funding requirements for their programs, activities and projects in the current year.
Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman issued Corporate Budget Circular No. 27 to all government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) to prescribe the guidelines on the use of prior years’ budgetary support. This is “to maximize the use of long-standing unobligated subsidies, while augmenting available government resources for the attainment of current national development goals,” according to Pangandaman. Subsidies are provided by the national government to these entities to cover operational expenses when their generated revenues are not sufficient to
sustain their functions.
As such, the DBM will issue the Approval on the Use of Prior Years’ Subsidies (APYS) to allow state-run firms to use unobligated subsidy allotment from fiscal years before last year, but these must be fully utilized within the same year the approval is granted. Only requests approved by the Governing Boards of the GOCCs can be submitted to the DBM for approval and must be filed by August 31 of the fiscal year. The GOCCs are only allowed to two APYS for a given fiscal year.
“GOCCs are enjoined to observe proper planning, pro -
gramming and budgeting prior to the submission of requests for APYS,” Pangandaman said. GOCCs must identify their total unobligated allotment balances as of, at the latest, the previous quarter, to determine how much they can request for APYS. Their Head of the GOCC shall certify that the requested amount is available to support the programs, subprograms and projects under the current national budget. State-run firms must also ensure that the total sources are equal to the additional funding requirement of the recipient programs, activities and projects.
The national government has allocated P7.545 billion in subsidies to GOCCs in February, 19.43 percent lower than the P9.401 billion disbursed during the same month last year.
In 2024, subsidies to GOCCs were reduced to P138.763 billion, the lowest in six years. This is lower by 15.14 percent from P163.535 billion in 2023, as GOCCs needed less budgetary support and had better operating income.
This year, subsidies to GOCCs will even be lower at P127.427 billion based on the state’s budget documents. This went down by 32.30 percent from P188.229 billion in 2024.
THE Department of Agriculture’s (DA) High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) is seeking an additional P5-billion funding to boost the country’s farm sector.
Agriculture Undersecretary for High-Value Crops Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero said the program’s budget currently stands at P2.1 billion, which they aim to increase to P7.1 billion by 2026.
“High-value crops should be considered as our transformational mechanism to improve the agriculture sector,” Caballero told reporters on the sidelines of a recent agriculture forum in Makati City.
She noted that the additional funding would bankroll innovations in the sector, such as a protected cultivation system that shelters crops from adverse climatic conditions. This mechanism would help ensure the availability of vegetables and prevent volatile retail pricing.
“When you can plant year-round because you’re operating in a controlled [or] semi-controlled environment, then you can optimize,” Caballero said.
“With this, you can [grow] vegetables during off-season to prevent the volatility in prices. Farmers would then have a reliable source
9K cops ready to serve as backup poll workers on May 12–Comelec
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE Commission on Elections said around 9,000 Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel are now ready to serve as special electoral board members for the May 12 national and local elections.
Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia said in a recent interview that the PNP has already doubled the number of officers the commission initially requested.
“The PNP has prepared more than 9,000—double the number we asked them to train as election board members. All 9,000 are properly trained and have already started deploying,” Garcia said in Filipino.
He explained that around 4,000 to 4,300 teachers are expected to serve as electoral board (EB) members.
But in the event that any of them withdraws due to intimidation, violence, or other circumstances, trained PNP officers are ready to take their place.
Garcia added that aside from police officers, members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) may also be tapped to serve as EB members if police personnel are unavailable.
However, he emphasized that state forces are only part of the contingency plan, and teachers will remain the primary EB members.
“As long as there are teachers who can
of income because they can plant year-round,” she explained.
Caballero noted that the program would also introduce a sustainable agroforestry farm enterprise wherein denuded or idle lands could be used by farmers who were not in the irrigation line.
She said sustainable agroforestry would also allow farmers to engage in crop diversification through a multistory farming system, which is a process that promotes the cultivation of crops on the same land.
“So, farmers can plant coffee and cacao because they have a nurse crop. The nurse crop can either be coconut or bamboo,” she said. But ultimately, Caballero noted that the additional funding would help the program provide more quality planting materials to farmers.
“We can leverage [this funding] because the private sector will go into their respective businesses. But they need to work with farmers who have access to reliable, quality planting materials,” she said.
“At the end of the day, we need the private sector to scale. We are just providing the necessary intervention to de-risk the investment and to upscale the farmers that would be part of that ecosystem.” Ada Pelonia
Filipino, US Balikatan troops repel ‘enemy landing’ in Aparri
By Rex Anthony Naval
FILIPINO and American troops demonstrated their capability to stop hostile forces attempting to land and invade the country through the counter-landing and live-fire exercise in Aparri, Cagayan, on Saturday.
In the said exercises, participating soldiers showed their synchronized firepower and rapid response in the drills which were described as “highintensity.”
serve as EB members, they will not be replaced on May 12,” Garcia assured.
Under Comelec Resolution No. 11135, members of the PNP and AFP may be deployed to serve as special electoral board members in areas where threats to peace and order may disrupt the conduct of elections.
The guidelines state that this deployment can only happen under four conditions: (1) if the Comelec determines that the peace and order situation in an area justifies the use of state forces as EB members; (2) if the deployment will remain under the commission’s full operational command and control; (3) if no other qualified, willing, and available individuals are found, as certified by concerned officials; and (4) if the area is either under Comelec control or declared as a red election area of concern.
The resolution also outlines how PNP and AFP personnel are selected.
They must have good moral character, be of known integrity and competence, have no conviction or pending charges for any election offense or crime punishable by over six months in prison, and be able to speak and write in Filipino, English, or the local dialect.
PNP and AFP personnel may not be appointed to the electoral board if they are related within the fourth civil degree—either by blood or by marriage—to a fellow board member or to any candidate running in the same polling place.
“The drill simulation highlighted the detection of an amphibious task group representing a threat force attempting to land along the northern coastline. In rapid response, joint Philippine-US forces executed a coordinated counter-landing operation to prevent them from establishing a foothold in the area, demonstrating combined strength and seamless interoperability,” the Armed Forces (AFP) said in a statement. It also added that Army (PA) and the Marine Corps (PMC) mobilized a robust array of assets, including Sabrah light tanks, light armored vehicles (LAVs), Atmos (Automated Truck Mounted Howitzer System) 155mm self-propelled howitzers, and additional firepower from 105mm howitzers.
Advanced targeting systems such as the “Smart Shooter” and infantry maneuver elements further beefed up the defensive response of Filipino and American troops.
Meanwhile, US forces delivered overwhelming air and ground support.
Key assets included AH-64 “Apache” attack helicopters, F-16 multi-role fighters, and a P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft.
“They also provided real-time targeting through cutting-edge cuing and sensing systems, with direct small arms support,” the AFP said. See “Filipino” A2
WATCHERS The police keep a tight watch on Commission on Elections’ staff loading poll paraphernalia for delivery in San Lazaro, Manila on Saturday (May 3, 2025). Some cops already availed of local absentee voting as they will be on duty on election day (May 12).
PNA PHOTO BY JOAN BONDOC
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
NGCP deals with local power suppliers get ERC final nod
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has issued its final approval to nine ancillary service procurement agreements (ASPA) entered into by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) with various power suppliers.
More ASPAs authorized by the regulator mean more power reserves to support the country’s transmission grid. After due deliberation, the majority, composed of ERC Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta and commissioners Catherine Maceda and Floresinda Digal, resolved to grant final authority to the power reserves contracts of NGCP with Giga Ace 4 Inc. (GA4), Universal Power Solutions Inc. (UPSI-San Manuel BESS), UPSI-Lamao BESS, UPSI-Bataan BESS, UPSI-Concepcion BESS, Masinloc Power Partners Co. Ltd., UPSI-Jasaan BESS, Ingrid Power Holdings Inc.,
Therma Marine Inc. (TMI).
UPSI and Masinloc Power are controlled by San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corp.
GA4 is a subsidiary of ACEN Corp. The power arm of Ayala Corp. also owns a significant stake in Ingrid.
TMI, meanwhile, is under Aboitiz Power Corp.
The approved ASPA rates with GA4 are P0.3088 per kilowatt hour (kWh) for regulating reserve (RR) and P1.4373 per kWh for contingency reserve (CR). These are the rates ERC has authorized NGCP to pay its supplier.
The RR rate for UPSI-San Manuel is P1.0489 per kWh, P2.0856 per kWh for UPSI-Lamao, and P1.7393 per kWh for UPSI-Bataan.
For CR that NGCP will be supplied by GA4, UPSI-San Manuel, UPSI-Lamao, UPSI-Concepcion, Masinloc Power, UPSI-Jasaan, and Ingrid Power the approved rates are P1.4373 per kWh, P0.0649 per kWh, P0.0811 per kWh, P1.6767 per kWh, P1.6830 per kWh, P1.4675 per kWh, and P0.4875 per kWh, respectively.
Meanwhile, TMI and NGCP’s ASPA involves dispatchable reserve (DR) at a rate of P1.2097 per kWh.
When sought for comment, Dimalanta said the details of the commission’s evaluation will be provided in the individual decisions to be issued soon for each contract once drafting is completed.
Meantime, she said all the contracts were subjected to a uniform evaluation standard developed per type of service provided.
“This was based on an ADB [Asian Development Bank] study on framework for costing of AS which we updated to current costing and specific data on each AS plant that we have on file. It is just the framework that we adopted but updated the data and made our own evaluation model,” said Dimalanta when asked why the final rates are much lower low than the provisional rates.
The NGCP said RR is generating capacity needed to balance the supply and load in real time while CR is an insurance generating capacity necessary to adjust automatically in response to sudden reduction of generation output or tripping of generating unit.
DR, meanwhile, is meant to replenish the CR. AS ensures that the grid can handle fluctuations in demand, maintain stability, and recover from outages.
ABA net income rises by 8% in 2024
By VG Cabuag @villygc
ABACORE Capital Holdings Inc. (ABA), a holding firm with interests in the leasing of gaming equipment, gold and coal mining, real estate and financial services, reported an 8-percent increase in its net income to P2.6 billion in 2024 from P2.4 billion recorded in 2023.
The company said a year-over-year increase in gains on fair-value adjustments to P3.5 billion last year from P2.6 billion in 2023 had an impact on its financial results.
“The increase can be attributed to ABA’s timely moves to capitalize on the appreciation of the value of its assets within its land bank.”
The gains last year exclude the sale of a 16-hectare investment property located in San Salvador, Lipa, Loob, Mataas na Kahoy, and Mabini in
STOCK-MARKET OUTLOOK
Last week
SHARE prices posted gains, enabling the main index to breach the 6,400-point mark, as the market was buoyed by initial reports on first-quarter earnings.
The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index rose 143.94 points to close at 6,411.88 points.
It was a four-day trading week, but the main index only shed points at the start of the week and were up during the remaining days, as investors were quite bullish.
“The local market had a good run last week, rising past its 6,400-resistance level. Average value turnover, while not stellar, still came in above year-todate average. Foreign fund flows were also positive on the net, providing support to the rally,” Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco, senior research analyst at Philstocks Financials Inc., said.
Volume of trade reached P5.93 billion. Foreign investors, who cornered half of the trades, were net buyers at P2.15 billion.
All other sub-indices ended in the green, except for the Mining and Oil index that plunged 397.86 points to close at 9,603.72 points. The broader All Shares index gained 45.43 to 3,741.12, the Financials index rose 2,473.76, the Industrial index climbed 148.48 to 8,947.51, the Holding Firms index surged 180.07 to 5,445.28, the Property index gained 39.55 to 2,310.22 and the Services index was up 20.45 to 1,993.04. For the week, gainers were slightly ahead of losers 114 to 106 and 32 shares were unchanged.
Top gainers were NiHAO Mineral Resources International Inc., Easycall Communications Philippines Inc., AbaCore Capital Holdings Inc., Philweb Corp., Manila Broadcasting Co., AllHome Corp. and DigiPlus Interactive Corp. Top losers, were, Jackstones Inc., Manila Mining Corp. A shares, Premiere Horizon Alliance Corp., Philippine Trust Co.,Upson International Corp., Millennium Global Holdings Inc. and SBS Philippines Corp.
Next week
SHARE prices may fall this week after the US economy contracted by 0.3 percent in the first quarter of the year, the first negative growth since early 2022--driven largely by a 41-percent surge in imports.
Broker 2TradeAsia said markets were caught off-guard, having expected modest growth, and are now recalibrating expectations for the US Federal Reserve, with rate cuts back on the table as early as the third quarter of the year.
“Expect calls for an earlier rate cut from the Fed to intensify as the 2-year treasury yields continue to drop below the baseline. The bigger development is whether this contraction is a one-off inventory distortion or the start of a broader slowdown; the Fed now faces a narrowing path of cutting too soon and risk credibility or wait too long and risk further contraction,” it said.
Tantiangco, meanwhile, said the local market is expected to test the validity of its breach of the 6,400-resistance level. If it manages to establish its ground at the said line, it will be converted into a support while next resistance would be at the 6,800 level, he said.
“Investors are expected to look forward to our April inflation rate for clues. An inflation print biased to the lower end of the BSP’s 1.3 percent to 2.1 percent projection is expected to give sentiment a boost.”
Batangas, it said.
The property was sold for P346.4 million, net of cost and provision of taxes, and ABA would have reported a gain of P119.7 million from the sale, the company said.
Despite the sale being made in 2024, the buyers of the investment property are still completing certain acts that prevented the gain from being reported in 2024.
As such, this gain will be recorded in the first quarter of 2025, it said
Despite multiple sales of assets within its land bank, there are still 350 hectares worth of land within ABA’s balance sheet. This is due to the company continuously replenishing its land bank by making acquisitions.
SM Prime’s first quarter’s income of P11.7 billion was behind its expectations but was in line with consensus.
“Given the miss, we cut our target price by 5 percent to P40 after considering management guidance and lowering our 2025-26 estimates,” it said.
SM Prime shares closed at P24.20 apiece.
Meanwhile, it also maintained a buy rating on Manila
Electric Co. as its net income for the first quarter were
Total assets increased to P26.6 billion in 2024 from P23.3 billion in 2023.
“For 2025, we look to maximize the gains from the sale of our assets as well as expanding the operations of our key subsidiaries,” Antonio Victoriano F. Gregorio III, the company’s president, said.
For 2025, ABA said it will pursue long-term initiatives that would increase shareholder value and increase the value of the company’s assets. These include the development of the Montemaria Shrine as a lifestyle destination and the implementation of its coal-mining project under its subsidiary Abacoal Development of the ABA Energy Hub in Batangas City.
in line with its consensus estimates.
Its distribution utility growth was soft due to cooler weather and a high base, while generation was strong on Chromite’s addition. The company’s franchise was renewed for another 25 years.
“We raise our target price to P599 to reflect PacificLight capacity additions and maintain our buy rating,” it said.
Meralco’s share price P565 apiece. VG Cabuag
Investments in BCDA triple to ₧7.72B in Q1
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
INVESTMENTS generated by state-run firm Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) more than tripled to P7.72 billion in the first quarter, driven by strong interest in its New Clark City and Camp John Hay properties.
BCDA said approved investments reached P7.72 billion from January to March 2025, a 209.9 percent jump from P2.49 billion in the same quarter last year.
“The BCDA’s strong performance is a testament to the private sector’s steadfast confidence in the long-term potential of our economic zones, including New Clark City and Camp John Hay,” BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang said in a statement.
He said these “high-impact investments will surely help spur increased business activity and drive economic growth, providing more employment and livelihood opportunities for the local communities.”
The state-run firm said bulk of its investment portfolio during the period came from local investors, contributing P5.81 billion, while the remaining P1.91 billion was poured in by foreign investors.
Among the major contributors, BCDA noted, is Science Park of the Philippines Inc., a local real estate developer that signed a 50-year contract lease for the development of a 100-hectare industrial park in New Clark City with a project cost of P2.7 billion.
Another major investor is the Filipino-South Korean consortium composed of Sta. Clara
International Corp., Saekyung Realty Corp., and Korea Overseas Infrastructure and Urban Development Corp.
According to BCDA, the group has committed to invest P4.8 billion to build an “affordable” housing facility in New Clark City, a portion of which will be allocated for the Marcos administration’s Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program.
Meanwhile, in Camp John Hay, BCDA said four local corporations have also partnered with the state-run firm for the continued development of the hospitality and food industries, following the government’s recovery of the 247-hectare leased area within this ecotourism zone.
“These include Stern Real Estate and Development Corp., which committed to invest P178 million for the continued lease and expansion of the iconic Le Monet Hotel and Filling Station food court,” BCDA said in a statement.
Food and beverage firms Top Taste and Trading Inc., Amare La Cucina, and Prime Collective Corp. have also signed agreements to establish new restaurants and cafes in the area.
“Both Top Taste and Prime Collective have pledged P20 million in investments each, while Amare has committed P30 million,” the state-run firm noted.
“As we continue to build inclusive, sustainable, and futureready cities, we invite more investors to explore vast opportunities within our ecozones and to become partners in driving transformative, game-changing projects that will help shape the future of our nation,” Bingcang said.
Banking&Finance Guide on Islamic banking issued by Shari’ah board
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
Chinabank ready to sell asset bought from Uy
By VG Cabuag @villygc
HE China Banking Corp.
T(Chinabank) is ready to sell the property it recently acquired from Chelsea Logistics and Infrastructure Holdings Corp., a company led by Davao businessman Dennis A. Uy.
“We have it already. We will start opening up to people to show interest. There are couple of interested parties,” Chinabank chairman Hans T. Sy said. “It’s a very valuable property. We will open it up for sale.”
According to Sy, they gave Uy a chance to redeem the property, which has a size of about 14 hectares. Uy was appealing, he added. However, Sy said they gave the Davao businessman 18 months to reclaim the property.
“They have a lease back. So, they don’t have to renew that. No more; it’s expired now. We’re not renewing anymore,” he added.
Still, Sy said the company is having difficulties in selling the assets.
“[It’s not] easy to sell, though; it’s not easy to sell a property that size. It’s not easy to sell. You’d be surprised,” he told reporters. Still, Sy said the property’ location “is very nice.”
“It’s really in our name. It has no
EDGARDO B. ESPIRITU, the former secretary of the Department of Finance (DOF) during the Estrada administration, has passed away. He was 89 years old. Espiritu passed away on April 28, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. The nature of his death was not disclosed. He was appointed as Secretary of Finance from 1998 to 1999, championing policies that steered the country through the Asian financial crisis. Espiritu resigned from his post more than a year later due to corruption in the Estrada administration and testified in the latter’s impeachment trial.
After receiving death threats for his testimony, saying that Estrada gained huge profits from trading in shares of Best World Resources Corp., Espiritu fled to Los Angeles, California, with his wife in 2001.
As a veteran banker, Espiritu held top management roles in the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co., the Philippine National Bank and Westmont Bank (renamed as United Overseas Bank Philippines).
Espiritu also served as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Iceland. He was a graduate of the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Law in 1958, and was conferred the degree of Doctor of Laws (honoris causa), as recognition for his accomplishments in banking and finance, economics, public service and entrepreneurship in 2020. Espiritu was also a member of the UP Board of Regents and president of the UP Alumni Association (UPAA).
more pending (issues) So, as I said, we always do things with a heart. We gave them a chance,” the Chinabank executive added.
Chelsea Logistics President and CEO Chryss Alfonsus V. Damuy said the company executed a dacion-en-pago transaction.
This resulted in the company recording a 5-percent decline in consolidated total assets and a 16-percent decrease in current liabilities. This strategy to divest non-productive assets and reduce debt optimized the company’s portfolio while enhancing liquidity, according to Chelsea Logistics documents.
Chinabank earlier declared a regular cash dividend of P1.50 per common share and an additional P1 per common share special dividend, worth about P6.7 billion.
The dividends will be payable on May 22 to shareholders on record as of May 9.
The higher regular cash dividend marks a 25 percent higher from the P1.20 per common share paid in 2024.
The total amount of cash dividends is 14 percent higher than in 2024, equivalent to a payout ratio of 27 percent and a cash dividend yield of 2.8 percent based on the bank’s closing stock price of P89.55 as of April 23.
ISLAMIC banks, financial and non-financial institutions can now request Shari’ah opinions on their products and transactions from the Shari’ah Supervisory Board (SSB) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) following the release of its guidelines.
The move comes after the key body in the BARMM issued its first circular (001, series of 2025).
As such, Islamic banks and Islamic Banking Units (IBU) of conventional banks, takaful operators and retakaful operators, regulatory bodies, and non-governmental organizations, government agencies, cooperatives
development and prevents the poor from improving their condition by robbing them of resources that should go to vital society services, such as education, health, livelihood assistance and social protection.
Judiciary reform was one of the key recommendations that Espiritu requested the World Bank to undertake when he was still the Secretary of Finance. “A predictable judiciary, one that consistently and efficiently adjudicates cases, is an essential element of an anti-corruption system.”
“A judiciary that dispenses, and is perceived to dispense fair and impartial justice, for instance in adjudicating contracts, is a requirement for attracting investors, both local and foreign, and is therefore a key ingredient for economic growth,” Espiritu said in his speech.
The ex-Finance chief said greater fiscal and administrative independence, as well as ensuring a meritbased rather than politically influenced nomination, are needed in the judiciary.
“Our generation has a responsibility to bring corruption out into the light as a key enemy that needs to be nicked. We must actively enlist the support of all sectors of society in this fight, particularly the young, through our schools, through progressive academic curriculums, particularly those that seek to hone future lawyers in the virtues of fairness, honesty, and love for the law, through civil society initiatives, through the media, and the virtual world,” Espiritu said.
and other financial and non-financial institutions offering Islamic finance products can request the SSB for opinions.
The SSB issues opinions on Islamic banking transactions and products issued by financial institutions and other stakeholders in the BARMM, and when requested
by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), financial institutions and other stakeholders.
Matters that can be referred to the SSB include Shari’ah issues in structuring and significant variations to existing Islamic financial products or instruments, implementation and execution challenges, differing opinions among Shari’ah advisors and any emerging Shari’ah issues requiring the Board’s opinion. Financial institutions offering Islamic products or instruments must first have Shari’ah matters reviewed and endorsed by their respective Shari’ah Advisory Council, Shari’ah Adviser or Consultant before referring them to the SSB. Request for opinions may be submitted through postal mail or the official e-mail address of the SSB Secretariat, which will oversee the end-to-end process of handling requests for SSB opinions.
The SSB was created through a joint circular on April 26, 2022,
by its founding agencies, the BSP, Bangsamoro Government, Department of Finance and the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, as part of their shared mandate under the Bangsamoro Organic Law (Republic Act No. 11054).
The initiative complements the state policy under the Islamic Banking Law (Republic Act 11439) in promoting a robust Islamic banking ecosystem.
The SSB supports the development of Islamic banking and finance and complements the BSP’s circular on Shari’ah governance for Islamic banks and Islamic banking units.
Under Islamic banking and finance, financial services must be consistent with Shari’ah principles. Islamic banks must offer products that do not involve interest or “riba,” which is prohibited in Shari’ah. Instead, Islamic banks offer alternative arrangements to generate income.
Fed’s Powell is about to defy Trump and hold rates steady
By Christopher Condon & Craig Stirling Bloomberg
THINGS are getting awkward for the Federal Reserve. With their eye on inflation, officials are inclined to hold rates steady when they meet in Washington on Tuesday and Wednesday. But fears of a slowdown are mounting, and President Donald Trump and some of his deputies keep hammering the central bank for an interestrate cut.
Caught in that bind, Fed Chair Jerome Powell may have been comforted by government data on Friday showing a healthy 177,000 jump in April payrolls. As long as the labor market holds firm, the Fed can more easily justify standing pat.
Meanwhile, the Fed’s favored inflation gauge showed price pressures continued to slowly ease. While Powell & Co. would typically welcome such a cooling, higher US duties on imports risk upending the progress they’ve made on inflation.
Indeed, uncertainty is the dominant factor now for major central banks around the world. The White House is pursuing deals on the tariff front that could once again shift the landscape, a nightmare for anyone
trying to forecast future economic conditions.
The European Central Bank has continued to cut rates in anticipation of continued disinflation and weaker growth caused by US tariffs. But euro-area inflation unexpectedly held steady in a report released on Friday, while an underlying measure jumped.
Another illustration of the fog of the trade war: The Bank of Canada in April abandoned its usual practice of releasing a base-case forecast. Instead, it issued two potential—and very different—scenarios that hinge on how Canada’s tariff dispute with the US turns out.
The US economic data calendar is light in the coming week. On Monday, the Institute for Supply Management issues its April services index. Economists will then focus on jobless claims data for any signs layoffs are becoming more pronounced. Initial applications in the week ended April 26 jumped to the highest since February, largely due to a spring recess-related surge in New York filings.
In Canada, newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to meet Trump within the week, and will also start assembling a cabinet.
Jobs data may show continued
weakness, merchandise trade numbers for March will reflect tariffs, and the Bank of Canada’s financial stability report will offer insight into the capacity of businesses and households to weather a potential recession.
Elsewhere, several monetary decisions are scheduled, with rate cuts anticipated in the UK and Poland, a hike in Brazil, and no change in Sweden and Norway.
Asia
THE region will see data on factory or services activity from a number of countries, including China, Japan, Singapore and India, providing early insight into the impact of Trump’s tariffs.
The week kicks off with Pakistan’s rate decision as tensions with neighboring India escalate.
On the same day, Singapore publishes retail sales for March, while figures from Indonesia will likely show the economy there contracted in the first quarter.
The following day, China publishes the Caixin activity report for April at a time when measures across Asia are showing a sudden worsening because of Trump’s trade war. Vietnam has a flurry of data on tap, from inflation to trade and retail sales,
while Australia—where elections on Saturday saw the incumbent centerleft Labor Party returned to power with an increased majority—reports building approvals.
On Wednesday, New Zealand and the Philippines will publish employment reports, while data from Thailand will show consumer prices likely eased further in April.
Malaysia’s central bank is set to leave interest rates unchanged on Thursday at 3 percent, while firstquarter data will likely show the Philippines economy maintained its momentum in the new year.
On Friday, all eyes will be on China’s trade data for April, the first month since US “Liberation Day” tariffs were imposed and Beijing retaliated.
Another key set of data comes from Japan, where investors will focus on real wages after they fell for a second straight month in February. South Korea reports its balance of payments, while Indonesia has consumer confidence data. Finally, investors will keenly watch China’s inflation data on Saturday. Meanwhile, Chinese companies listed in Hong Kong are bringing forward dividend payments to the second quarter, a move that may smooth out yuan volatility over the year.
Short sellers bet against private credit lenders
By Kat Hidalgo & Neil Callanan Bloomberg
HEDGE funds are betting that trade wars, a shrinking economy and rising strain among borrowers will begin to hit private credit in the US. So far, the gamble’s paying off.
In his address during his conferment, Espiritu said corruption is a “national problem,” an obstacle to
“We would then be able to pass on this advocacy to the next and future generations and have a better chance in defeating the social affliction of corruption for good,” he added. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
Short sellers have made about $1.7 billion on paper so far this year from wagers against seven of the biggest direct lenders, including Apollo Global Management Inc., Ares Management Corp. and Blue Owl Capital Inc., according to data compiled by S3 Partners LLC. While direct lenders have touted tariff-induced volatility as a chance for them to grab a larger slice of the debt market, their share prices have fallen in recent months on policy and economic uncertainty. Adding to the headwinds, the International Monetary Fund warned last month of concern among market participants that borrowers’ deteriorating credit quality has not been reflected in the industry’s loan valuations.
cession. If company revenue falls, cash flow falls which means leverage goes up and free cash flow goes out the window,” said Scott Roberts, a senior managing partner at Belvedere Direct Lending Advisors. Ares and Apollo declined to comment. A spokesperson for Blue Owl directed Bloomberg to the company’s most recent earnings call, in which Co-Chief Executive Officer Marc Lipschultz noted that choppy credit markets can give companies more incentive to borrow from private lenders.
S3 says there’s evidence that ebbing volatility has led to profit taking recently by the short sellers, who borrow stock and sell it in the expectation of buying it back at a lower price later.
downturn, they add, making it harder to know how the loan books will perform.
Others are more optimistic. Business-development companies, a type of private lender, are “low-levered vehicles, so they have solid embedded capital cushions if recession does hit and they have to mark down their portfolios,” said Clay Montgomery, vice president in Moody’s Ratings’ private credit team.
Shares of asset managers have broadly been weakening this year.
Firms like Apollo and Ares have private equity units, and any short sales could be tied to a bet against the outlook for other money management businesses.
But valuations in direct lending remain a concern. Just 40 percent of private credit funds reporting data to the US Securities and Exchange Commission use third-party appraisals, the Bank for International Settlements pointed out last year.
loans, postponing defaults and bankruptcies, leading to potential over-statement of loan valuations, portfolio yields, and fund returns,” Jeffrey Diehl and Bill Sacher of Adams Street, which manages $62 billion of assets, wrote in a report last week. They raised particular concerns about loans issued on the assumption that borrowers would pay their interest in cash, but were then changed to let them defer those payments.
Creditors are increasingly turning to these costly notes, known as payment-in-kind. More than a quarter of net investment income at a sample of BDCs tracked by Bloomberg Intelligence was made up of PIK at the end of the fourth quarter of last year.
“PIK loans are often valued surprisingly high, with approximately 75 percent valued at over 95 cents on the dollar by the end of September,” EY wrote in a report last month. “This discrepancy raises doubts about the consistency of valuations, especially when compared to similar loans in the public market, which are often valued lower.” Espiritu,
Alternative asset managers are “very exposed if we do have a re-
Vulnerable borrowers MARKET participants are also worried about fierce competition between private credit funds pushing down returns, and that a focus on loans to weaker and smaller companies exposes them to borrowers most vulnerable to a recession. Many direct lenders have never been through an extended
“There’s substantial evidence that suggests direct lenders— through optimism and/or self-interest—are camouflaging problem
WHERE PEOPLE THRIVE–AND WHY
A
new survey
of more than 200,000
people across 22 countries looks for global patterns and local differences
By Victor Counted, Regent University; Byron R. Johnson, Baylor University, and Tyler J. VanderWeele, Harvard University
The Conversation
WHAT does it mean to live a good life? For centuries, philosophers, scientists and people of different cultures have tried to answer this question. Each tradition has a different take, but all agree: The good life is more than just feeling good—it’s about becoming whole.
More recently, researchers have focused on the idea of flourishing, not simply as happiness or success, but as a multidimensional state of well-being that involves positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning and accomplishment—an idea that traces back to Aristotle’s concept of “eudaimonia” but has been redefined within the well-being science literature. Flourishing is not just well-being and how you feel on the inside. It’s about your whole life being good, including the people around you and where you live. Things such as your home, your neighborhood, your school or workplace, and your friends all matter.
We are a group of psychological scientists, social scientists and epidemiologists who are all contributors to an international collaboration called the Global Flourishing Study. The goal of the project is simple: to find patterns of human flourishing across cultures.
Do people in some countries thrive more than others? What makes the biggest difference in
a person’s well-being? Are there things people can do to improve their own lives? Understanding these trends over time can help shape policies and programs that improve global human flourishing.
What does the flourishing study focus on?
THE Global Flourishing Study is a five-year annual survey of over 200,000 participants from 22 countries, using nationally representative sampling to understand health and well-being. Our team includes more than 40 researchers across different disciplines, cultures and institutions. With help from Gallup Inc., we asked people about their lives, their happiness, their health, their childhood experiences, and how they feel about their financial situation.
The study looks at six dimensions of a flourishing life:
• Happiness and life satisfaction: how content and fulfilled people feel with their lives.
• Physical and mental health: how healthy people feel, in
both body and mind.
• Meaning and purpose: whether people feel their lives are significant and moving in a clear direction.
• Character and virtue: how people act to promote good, even in tough situations.
• Close social relationships: how satisfied people are with their friendships and family ties.
• Financial and material stability: whether people feel secure about their basic needs, including food, housing and money.
We tried to quantify how participants are doing on each of these dimensions using a scale from 0 to 10. In addition to using the Secure Flourish measure from Harvard’s Human Flourishing Program, we included additional questions to probe other factors that influence how much someone is flourishing.
For example, we assessed wellbeing through questions about optimism, peace and balance in life. We measured health by asking about pain, depression and exercise. We measured relationships through questions about trust, loneliness and support.
Who is flourishing and why?
OUR first wave of results reveals that some countries and groups of people are doing better than others.
We were surprised that in many countries young people are not doing as well as older adults. Earlier studies had suggested wellbeing follows a U-shape over the course of a lifespan, with the lowest point in middle age. Our new results imply that younger adults today face growing mental health challenges, financial insecurity and a loss of meaning that are disrupting the traditional U-shaped
curve of well-being. Married people usually reported more support, better relationships and more meaning in life.
People who were working— either for themselves or someone else—also tended to feel more secure and happy than people who were seeking jobs.
People who go to religious services once a week or more typically reported higher scores in all areas of flourishing—particularly happiness, meaning and relationships. This finding was true in almost every country, even very secular ones such as Sweden.
It seems that religious communities offer what psychologists of religion call the four B’s: belonging, in the form of social support; bonding, in the form of spiritual connection; behaving, in the cultivation of character and virtue through the practices and norms taught within religious communities; and believing, in the form of embracing hope, forgiveness and shared spiritual convictions.
But some people who attend religious services also report more pain or suffering. This correlation may be because religious communities often provide support during hard times, and frequent attendees may be more attentive to or more likely to experience pain, grief or illness.
Your early years shape how you do later in life. But even if life started off as challenging, it doesn’t have to stay that way. Some people who had difficult childhoods, having experienced abuse or poverty, still found meaning and purpose later as adults. In some countries, including the US and Argentina, hardship in childhood seemed to build resilience and purpose in adulthood.
Globally, men and women report similar levels of flourishing.
But in some countries there are big differences. For example, women in Japan report higher scores than men, while in Brazil, men report doing better than women.
Where are people flourishing most?
SOME countries are doing better than others when it comes to flourishing.
Indonesia is thriving. People there scored high in many areas, including meaning, purpose, relationships and character. Indonesia is one of the highest-scoring countries in most of the indicators in the whole study.
Mexico and the Philippines also show strong results. Even though these countries have less money than some others, people report strong family ties, spiritual lives and community support.
Japan and Turkey report lower scores. Japan has a strong economy, but people there report lower happiness and weaker social connections. Long work hours and stress may be part of the reason. In Turkey, political and financial challenges may be hurting people’s sense of trust and security.
One surprising result is that richer countries, including the United States and Sweden, are not flourishing as well as some others. They do well on financial stability but score lower in meaning and relationships. Having more money doesn’t always mean people are doing better in life.
In fact, countries with higher income often report lower levels of meaning and purpose. Meanwhile, countries with higher fertility rates often report more meaning in life. These findings show that there can
be a trade-off. Economic progress might improve some things but weaken others.
The big picture THE Global Flourishing Study is helping us see that people all over the world want many of the same basic things: to be happy, healthy, connected and safe. But different countries reach those goals in different ways. There is no one-sizefits-all answer to flourishing. What it means to flourish can look different from place to place and from one person to another.
One challenge with the Global Flourishing Study is that it uses the same set of questions in all 22 countries. This method, known as an etic approach, helps us compare results across cultures. But it can miss the nuance and local meanings of flourishing. What brings happiness or purpose in one country or context might not mean the same thing in another.
We consider this study to be a starting point. It opens the door for more emic studies—research that uses questions and ideas that fit the values, language and everyday life of specific cultures and societies. Researchers can build on this study’s findings to expand how we understand and measure flourishing around the world.
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/ what-makes-people-flourish-a-newsurvey-of-more-than-200-000-peopleacross-22-countries-looks-for-globalpatterns-and-local-differences-243671.
The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.
Style
MUPH 2025: Glam reportage
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GIVEN the incredible lineup of candidates at this year’s Miss Universe Philippines, the country’s fashion designers also delivered equally fabulous outfits.
A high-stakes competition required haute couture of the finest order. The four newly crowned queens share their gratitude while wearing their glamorous gowns:
MARIA AHTISA MANALO, QUEZON PROVINCE, MISS UNIVERSE PHILIPPINES 2025
THE Quezon Province candidate wore a pink ombre
Val Taguba couture creation as her coronation gown.
“A heartfelt congratulations to our newly crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2025, on a much-deserved win,” the former Dubai-based designer posted on his socials. “A queen, true and through.”
The entrepreneur from Candelaria, triumphant on her third attempt at the crown, said this as she was photographed wearing Jewelmer, the jewelry sponsor:
“I attract light into my life by striving to be a source of light for the people around me. I believe that the energy we give to the world naturally finds its way back to us. By choosing to uplift others, I create an environment of positivity, hope and encouragement not only for them but also for myself. I find purpose and fulfillment in being an enabler of my loved one’s dreams and aspirations—celebrating their victories, standing beside them through challenges, and offering whatever help I can to nurture their growth. In doing so, I cultivate a life filled with gratitude, love and inspiration, which draws even more light, joy, and opportunity into my own journey.”
MARIA KATRINA LLEGADO, TAGUIG, MISS PHILIPPINES SUPRANATIONAL 2025
“A PROUD salute and our warmest congratulations to Sgt. Ma Katrina Llegado PAFR for being crowned Ms. Supranational Philippines 2026. Your remarkable achievement is a shining testament to your dedication, elegance, and the values you uphold as a proud reservist of the Philippine Air Force. You have brought immense honor to the 1st ARCen family, the entire Reserve Force, and the Philippine Air Force as a whole. Your strength in service and grace onstage inspire us all to aim higher and serve with heart. We are incredibly proud of you,” goes a post by the PAFR.
The statuesque Katrina, a favorite model of fashion designers, stated of her “Rise of the Golden Phoenix” gown by the House of Pablo Mendez: “This moment is for every heart that dares to hope.
I am deeply honored to be your Miss Supranational Philippines 2026. May we rise together: Aspirational. Inspirational.
“This is my golden hour. A reflection of passion, purpose, and fire. This flame was never meant to fade—it’s the crown I wear from within.”
CHELSA LOVELY FERNANDEZ, SULTAN KUDARAT, MISS PHILIPPINES COSMO 2025
“SHINING brightly in this Leo Almodal masterpiece,” said the highest-performing Mindanao candidate to date.
After her satisfying performance in the swimsuit round held in Boracay, she wrote a note to herself: “Chelsea, you were incredible last night. Every step you took radiated strength, beauty, and heart. I know how much work and passion you poured into that
moment, and it truly showed. You gave your best and that means everything. No matter what happens next, you already made us proud. You shined so brightly and left your mark.”
GABRIELLA MAI CARBALLO, CEBU CITY, MISS PHILIPPINES ECO INTERNATIONAL 2025
THE most articulate in the highly competitive Class of 2025, the medical doctor-beauty queen stated: “The culmination of years of dreams and prayers, with one purpose only—to lead by example and push Filipino women to step out in courage for their dreams, past the expectations of society and the resistance of those around them, while fighting for purity of heart. When we strive for our hearts to be pure, the world becomes a place of empathy, acceptance, and love.”
“‘And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.’ — Ezekiel 36:26”
A day after her coronation, Gabbi said: “Planning to work on a video for everyone I need to thank and how I got here—but first I need to talk about the MUPH experience itself.
“I said in an interview with @theqrownph that I never wanted to look at this whole thing as anything but a blessing no matter how tired my body felt—and
Tried and tested: Aveeno’s skincare lines for face and body
COLLOIDAL oatmeal is derived from grinding oat grain, or Avena sativa, into a fine powder. It is an emollient because it contains fat, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are good for skin health.
If there is one brand that’s known for sensitiveskin care, it’s Aveeno, which contains colloidal oatmeal, which has anti-inflammatory properties. This, this can calm the inflammatory component of
eczema. In this summer, during which many of us have experienced the most intense heat our lives, our skin has experienced irritation, dryness, redness, itching and other concerns. Aveeno offers solutions for face and body and I got to try some of these products through the years and also recently.
I swear by the Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash and the Skin Relief Lotion.
The body wash, which claims to leave skin moisturized for 24 hours, also relieves dry and itchy skin. There is nothing better than taking a shower with the Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash when your skin is dry and itchy.
The body lotion claims to relieve dry, itchy and sensitive skin in 20 seconds and provide moisturization for up to 72 hours.
Aveeno’s pioneering Triple Oat Complex combines oat oil, oat extract, and oat flour to relieve dry, irritated skin, restore the skin’s barrier, and strengthen the skin’s microbiome. Oat oil
promotes the natural production of ceramides to strengthen the skin’s barrier, while oat flour binds water
I can tell you wholeheartedly that I’ve lived up to that promise. I’ve never felt this level of peace during a pageant ever in my life—when I tell you I had zero nerves, I really mean it. I was just so happy to be there last night. The further I got into the competition, the more I looked at the crowd, I wondered, ‘How can I make sure that I never forget this exact moment?’
“I’ve always also prayed for sisters who pray for each other and look at life from the same lens I do— @gwenmeliz @yoshabellebico @sandhujarina @juliana.fresado @angelinekailani @paulinerowbelle @zoehinayhoneyman, thank you for your equally courageous steps of faith to journey through this new territory out of obedience to our King. I’m so proud to know so many of us carried His light this entire time. My bunsos @suzannethelma and @natashaxtesta—I love you so much. Atoa ning daug, for our home.
“To Empire and the team, most especially those by our side every day—I never understood how you balanced it all but I’ve always been in awe of the effort put out for us. To the group of girls I’m so lucky to be with this year @ahtisa @katllegado @chelsfernandez_ @teresitassen @yanaaduana— what an honor it is to be with such icons. Can’t wait for the things we get to do together.
“More soon. I see all your support. I love you.” ■
line, which combines prebiotic oat with feverfew—an aromatic European herb—from cleanser to moisturizer to night cream. I must say I am now a big fan of the Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser (soap-free) and the
THE Shea & Goldenberry Body Butter (200ml) steals the spotlight this season.
THE Shea & Goldenberry Hand Balm (30ml) is your everyday essential for happy hands.
THE Shea & Saffron Hand Balm (30ml) is rich and creamy, deeply moisturizing hands and cuticles while absorbing quickly.
Women Rising in the World of Manufacturing
IN the traditionally male-dominated world of manufacturing, leadership roles for women remain an uphill climb. Deeply rooted gender biases, limited mentorship opportunities, and the common perception that technical and operational roles are better suited for men often hinder their progress.
Yet, for Sheryll Elic of Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI), breaking through these barriers was not just about personal success but about paving the way for future generations of female leaders.
A 27-year veteran in the manufacturing industry, Elic began her journey as a Quality Assurance (QA) Analyst in 1998. Over the years, she navigated through various roles, transitioning into operations, returning to quality assurance as a manager, and finally stepping into the role of Operations Manager in 2015. Her journey has been defined by persistence, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Stepping into leadership, however, did not come without challenges. As a young mother, balancing family life with the demands of overseeing manufacturing operations proved to be an enormous test.
“The weight of my work at that time was heavier than the weight of being with my two kids,” Elic recalled.
She found strength in her mentors' trust and her team's support. PCPPI, the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the country, continues to strongly advocate for women empowerment in the workplace. “While I was struggling, both my direct reports and my immediate superior, the Area Operations Director, had my back,” she said.
Despite the growing number of female leaders, misconceptions about women in leadership persist. Many assume that women, often seen as more soft-hearted or motherly, are less equipped to handle pressure. But Elic firmly disagrees. “Even if you are a mother or a female leader, as long as you are guided by company rules
and regulations, you must perform your duties and responsibilities even when the decisions are tough.”
Elic’s leadership philosophy is rooted in two fundamental principles: effective communication and empathy. She believes that operational success begins with clear communication, ensuring that all team members work toward a universal goal. But beyond that, she emphasizes the importance of understanding the individuals behind the operations.
“I assess people based on their knowledge, experience, and expertise to foster continuous improvement,” she explains. This approach has driven success in manufacturing and created a workplace where employees feel valued and heard.
These days, her leadership has played a crucial role in transforming PCPPI. Under her watch, the company has intentionally created opportunities for women in leadership.
“PCPPI has started to raise the bar to give more opportunities for women to lead a male-dominated manufacturing department. More female applicants are being hired, and once a woman steps into leadership, she becomes a role model for aspiring female professionals,” Elic added.
Elic envisions a future where women continue to rise in the manufacturing industry. She acknowledges that the
landscape is shifting, with female leaders making headlines in both corporate and industrial sectors.
But she knows there is still work to be done. “Through equal recognition, training, and opportunities, we can create an industry where women don’t just survive but thrive,” she emphasized.
To young women aspiring to leadership roles, Elic’s advice is simple yet powerful: “Believe in yourself.” She recounts how, when she was invited to speak before chemical engineering students at Saint Louis University, she emphasized the importance of self-confidence. “If someone tells you, ‘you can do it,’ cling to it, but also ensure you have a clear goal and a set objective.”
Her journey is a testament to the growing strength of female leadership in industries once dominated by men. Through her perseverance, Elic not only secured an international award from PepsiCo in 2014, but also set a benchmark for future female leaders to follow.
"Her story is more than just inspiring— it’s a powerful call to action for women to rise, take charge, and reshape leadership on their own terms. And at PCPPI, we are committed to fostering their growth, championing their success, and ensuring they can thrive," said Atty. Carina Bayon, PCCPI’s Chief Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Officer.
MERALCO CHAMPIONS SMART, TECH-DRIVEN ENERGY FUTURE. AT the recently concluded Giga Summit 2025: The Fusion of Power and Intelligence, Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco) emphasized the significance of the strategic convergence of smart technology and power in shaping the future of the Philippine energy sector. Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Meralco Power Academy (MPA) President Ronnie L. Aperocho (in photo) said in his speech that artificial intelligence (AI) plays a crucial role in the transformation of its distribution network. “We are future proofing Meralco’s distribution network through layers of different initiatives driven by innovation, big data and analytics, and powered by artificial intelligence,” he stated. Among Meralco’s key innovation initiatives are the Wireless Private Network (WPN) meant to enhance the grid automation and security; the Meralco Data Platform (MDP) which uses big data and AI to streamline operations; and the Meralco Interactive Data Assistant or MIDAS, the company’s AI-powered interactive assistant. These efforts aim to revolutionize sustainable operations, enhance resilience, and elevate customer experience through smart technologies and data-driven systems. “Our theme, The Fusion of Power and Intelligence, captures the reality that infrastructure and technology must go hand-in-hand with
celebration of Japanese Culture at Okada Manila
RAISE your glasses – SAKE MANILA 2025 is here.The Philippines’ premier celebration of Japanese beverages and culture makes its highly anticipated return on May 23, 2025, at the iconic Grand Ballroom of Okada Manila. Now on its second year, SAKE MANILA continues to be a gateway to Japan’s finest beverages and timeless traditions – offering a night of discovery, flavor and cultural immersion that brings Japan closer to the heart of Manila.
Here’s what awaits you:
• Over 200 premium labels of sake, shochu, whisky, gin, beer and wine – direct from Japan’s most celebrated brewers and distillers.
• Meet the Makers – engage with master brewers, brand ambassadors and industry experts as they share the artistry behind every bottle.
• The Iconic Tuna Parade – a captivating culinary performance where master chefs
expertly carve fresh tuna in a tradition steeped in Japanese heritage.
• Cultural Showcases – from the thunderous beats of Taiko drums and the elegant sounds of the Koto, to modern rhythms from live DJs.
• Exciting Raffle Prizes – from generous event sponsors and partners
• An unforgettable evening – a luxurious, welcoming atmosphere perfect for connoisseurs, professionals and curious newcomers alike.
From the first sip to the final toast, SAKE MANILA 2025 isn’t just an event – it’s an experience that celebrates craftsmanship, culture and connection.
Reserve your spot today at www. sakemanila.ph.
Tickets are limited – don’t miss this extraordinary night of Japanese flavor and festivity.
Kampai to new memories – see you at SAKE MANILA 2025!
AS summer days heat up, adventures feel just a little closer. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, braving unexpected downpours, or squeezing in a beach run between errands, having a tough, reliable watch on your wrist is nonnegotiable. Casio and G-SHOCK’s lineup delivers the shock resistance, water resistance, and bold style you need to move with confidence all season long. Take the DWE-5600PR-2, a rugged option built with a carbon core guard structure that handles drops, bumps, and rough terrain. Its vibrant, summer-ready design adds energy to any look, while its shock-resistant build means it’s made for more than just style.
For those who demand even more durability, the DW5600EP-9 steps up. With 200-meter water resistance and a lightweight frame, it’s equally at home poolside or on mountain trails. Plus, Bluetooth connectivity keeps you in sync with your day — no matter where it leads. When long summer nights call, the GD-010-4 answers with a high-brightness LED and a dependable 10-year battery life. Like every G-SHOCK, it’s engineered for impact, making it a solid companion from sunrise to starlight. For fitness enthusiasts, G-SHOCK’s performance-focused models offer both function and toughness. The DW-H5600-1 combines a heart rate monitor, GPS, and step tracker in a durable,
shock-resistant design built for movement. The GBD-H2000-1A9 goes even further
SHERYLL Elic, PCPPI Senior Manager for Manufacturing Operations, wraps up a productive day with her team at the Rosario plant.
AGRI-REFORESTATION. MGen Cerilo C. Balaoro Jr., (left) PA, Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, Philippine Army is being assisted by Dr. Isabel C. Suntay, Co-Founder of the Tarlac Heritage Foundation and LTGen Facundo P. Palafox IV , PA, (with eyeglasses), Commander of the Southern Luzon Command in harvesting okra, sitao, upo and sili on the Hardin Ng Lunas farm inside Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal. The event, held under the theme “Water is Life: Agri-Reforestation,” was organized by the Tarlac Heritage Foundation in partnership with the 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division of the Philippine Army. It advocates environmental protection, food sustainability, community awareness,
At the Sake Manila press conference are Okada Manila and Philippine Wine Merchants founders and executives SAKE MANILA returns for its 2nd year with grand
The biggest, most meaningful Pinoy Media Congress
LAST week, I was invited to speak before media and communication students and faculty about Public Relations (PR) as a career path by ABS-CBN Integrated Corporate Communications head Kane Errol Choa, who also gave a fascinating talk on Career Options in PR. This was part of the sessions lined up for the 20th offering of the Pinoy Media Congress (PMC), a long-running project between the Philippines Association of Communication Educators (PACE) and ABS-CBN. This year, we were hosted by the University of Makati (UMak), an institutional member of PACE for years now.
Saying that PMC 2025 was a success is an understatement, with over 1,000 attendees from 60 registered schools. The return of this much-anticipated event came with months of preparation from both the network and PACE. Mark Lester Chico, president of PACE,
WHAT’S ON THE FRONT MATTERS: A QUICK GUIDE TO FRONT-OF-PACK LABELS (AND WHY YOU SHOULD CARE)
MANILA, PHILIPPINES—When you’re in the grocery store, how do you decide which food to grab? Maybe you’re checking the price, looking for a favorite brand, or scanning the expiry date. But here’s a tip: don’t forget to check the front of the pack—that’s where a lot of the nutrition clues are hiding in plain sight.
Welcome to the world of front-of-pack labels (FOP labels). These handy little guides are designed to help you make quick, informed choices about the food you eat. And guess what? You don’t need to be a nutritionist to understand them.
So, what are front-of-pack labels?
FRONT-OF-PACK labels are the
nutrition indicators you’ll find right on the front of food packaging. Think of them as your food’s “elevator pitch”—they give you a snapshot of its nutritional content so you can decide at a glance if it fits your lifestyle or dietary needs.
But here’s the important thing: food is not good or bad based on a single number or ingredient. The goal of these labels isn’t to scare you or shame your choices—it’s to help you snack mindfully and eat better as part of your overall diet and couple your choices with regular physical activity.
How front of pack labels can help you
n You learn to compare. Two similar products? The label can help you pick the better option for your goals.
n You save time. No need to flip over every pack and decode the nutrition information panel.
n You stay in control. Whether you’re managing sugar, sodium, calories, or fat, FOP labels help
along with its board of trustees (BOT)—composed of 16 faculty members representing various universities—encouraged member schools and universities to actively take part in this record turnout.
“PACE highly values our long and strong partnership with ABS-CBN, and we look forward to continuing our efforts in ensuring a responsive and responsible future for media and communication education and practice in the country,” said Mark, on behalf of the BOT of PACE.
By air, sea, and land, students from the National Capital Region, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao came to UMak and eagerly interacted with the celebrities, speakers, and their fellow participants. Students from St. Louis University Baguio, totaling 47 and chaperoned by PACE trustee Dr. Janet Tibaldo, outnumbered the 42 students from Visayas State University, who traveled by tourist vans for 36
you stay on track.
Types of front-of-pack labels (and what they mean) DIFFERENT countries and brands use different systems— but here are three common types you might see:
1. GDA (Guideline Daily Amount)
What it shows: Calories, sugars, fats, saturated fats, and salt per serving, along with how much each contributes to your daily intake.
How to use it: It’s like a nutrition GPS—use it to track how a certain type of food fits into your daily caloric needs.
Why it’s good: Great for people who want the numbers. It puts things in context—because yes, that chocolate bar has sugar, but maybe it still fits in your daily allowance.
In the Philippines, certain food manufacturers have voluntarily implemented a GDA front-of-pack label, which shows how much energy (calories) are in every serving of the food you are about to consume.
hours one way, willingly chaperoned by PACE VP for Visayas, Dr. Derek Alviola.
“The 36-hour journey for us to attend the PMC was all worth it. My 42 students learned a lot from all the sessions, and we’re excited to bring more delegates to the PMC in the years to come,” said Dr. Alviola.
I recall vividly, as the then PACE president (2017 to 2021), that during the chaos brought by the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, the House of Representatives did not renew the franchise of the biggest network in the country. Many partner organizations, including PACE, stood by ABSCBN and we published our own compelling statement in support of the network. On February 6, 2020, PACE, ABS-CBN, and then Holy Spirit College signed a memorandum agreement that would have marked the 20th PMC.
Fast forward to last April 24, 2025, Kane was with a leaner yet very impressive team. Despite running on a limited budget, ABS-CBN still rolled out the best learning sessions for students and faculty. Carlo Katigbak, ABS-CBN president and CEO, succinctly verbalized the audience’s feelings about the network: “at whatever platform, the network will not stop being in service to the Filipino people.”
Broadcast practitioners provided supplemental information beyond what is typically learned from books and university lectures. Armed with knowledge
2. Nutri-Grade or Nutri-Score
What it shows: A letter grade (like A to D) or a color code (green to red) based on how nutritious a food is overall based on a set of criteria, including thresholds for certain nutrients.
How to use it: The closer to “A” or green, the better the food is in nutritional quality.
Why it’s good: It’s quick and visual—helpful when you’re in a rush or just starting your health journey.
3. Warning Labels
What it shows: Black stop signs or symbols warning if a product is high in sugar, salt, or fat.
How to use it: It’s a heads-up that the food you are consuming may have high content of a certain nutrient.
Why it’s good: It is simple, but could cause avoiding a certain food rather than focusing on total diet.
So, what’s the best label? EACH label has its strengths, and they all aim for the same
gained from classroom engagements, students lined up to ask the most thought-provoking questions in all 12 sessions covering broadcast news, lifestyle, entertainment, film, music, digital platforms, education, and our session on PR.
When my co-International Public Relations Association (IPRA)-Philippine Chapter colleague and friend Kane invited me to be one of the speakers, I readily said yes for two reasons: first, it supports my advocacy of making PR a viable career option for communication students; and, second, I was fully supportive of the return of PMC.
Focusing on our session on PR, Kane, with his aptly titled session “Lights, Camera, PR: Ten Movie and TV Titles,” had an interesting way of juxtaposing elements of films and TV shows with how ABS-CBN employs various PR techniques and strategies in its everyday operations.
My own session, “Are You PR-eady for Public Relations?” covered the soft skills needed in the practice of PR, pakikisama (puilding relationships), pakikipag-usap (effective communication), pang-aangkop (adaptability and flexibility), pangako ng etika at integridad (ethics and Integrity), and pagkamalikhain (creativity and innovation). I took the opportunity to underscore the importance of upholding ethics and integrity, even as early in university.
goal: to help you make better choices more easily. The real power comes when labels are used to address cultural needs, support education, and not judgment. Food is meant to be enjoyed, in moderation like everything else in life.
The key takeaway? Look at the label, but also look at the bigger picture—your overall diet, lifestyle, and personal health goals. Don’t forget to be physically active! One food item doesn’t define your health, just like one workout doesn’t make you fit.
It’s about balance, variety, and mindful snacking.
So next time you’re in the store, take a second to glance at the front of that pack. It’s got more to say than just a pretty design—it might just help you live a little better, bite by bite.
With the goal of better informing and educating consumers, snacks company Mondelēz International and adobo Magazine are holding a collaborative workshop on effective design and communication guidelines for front-of-pack labeling for
“The session about PR provided an extensive overview of contemporary PR work and gave our student participants a practitioners perspective on what the essential competencies and principles are, which are relevant to 21st century PR practice,” said Mark.
PR Matters is a roundtable column by members of the local chapter of the United Kingdom-based International Public Relations Association (Ipra), the world’s premier organization for PR professionals around the world. Rowena Capulong Reyes, PhD is the vice president for Corporate Affairs of Far Eastern University (FEU). She is an executive committee member of the Metro Manila Film Festival 2025 and heads its education committee. She was formerly the Dean of FEU Institute of Arts and Sciences and Colegio de San Juan de Letran. She is the immediate past president of the Philippine Association of Communication Educators (PACE), serving two terms.
We are devoting a special column each month to answer our readers’ questions about public relations. Please send your questions or comments to askipraphil@ gmail.com.
The gratification of delivering my lecture was quickly evident as students from Mariano Marcos State University approached me, expressing how they now value PR as a discipline and career choice. Mark Polo, PACE president (2013 to 2017) and a PR professor and practitioner, also shared his insights.
food and beverage products. The event, “Think Tank for Effective Front-of-Pack Labels,” will bring together graphic designers, marketers, health advocates, and industry leaders to collaborate on evaluating existing models of front-of-pack labels that communicate essential nutritional information.
The session will include discussions on best practices for integrating health messages and nutrition labels—bridging the gap between scientific understanding, graphic design, and communication principles. Participants will engage in collaborative brainstorming to co-create or evaluate effective innovative labeling concepts that resonate with consumers while adhering to regulatory standards.
The event will be held on May 8, 2025 at the Odd Cafe in Makati City, and will be opened virtually by Matt Kovac, CEO of Food Industry Asia (FIA).
For more information on Mondelēz International, visit mondelezinternational.com
(FROM left) Marco Polo, Rowena Capulong Reyes, Kane Errol Choa, Carlo Katigbak and Mark Lester Chico THE author with communication students from St. Louis University Baguio and PACE Trustee Dr. Janet Tibaldo. STUDENTS from Mariano Marcos State University
‘SiPons’ boost for Alas Pilipinas
By Aldrin Quinto
SANTA Rosa, Laguna—The performance had its flaws, but Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons’s beach volleyball comeback still won the fans’ approval.
Extra chairs were brought in to accommodate the fans at the Nuvali Sand Courts for the women’s quarterfinals of the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Futures Saturday evening and the Filipina pair came up with a rousing performance, falling just short against Romania’s Beata Vaida and Francesca Ioana Alupei, 2118, 19-21, 12-15.
In their first beach volleyball tournament after focusing on indoor competition for the past two years, the veteran pair showed they have the stuff to challenge for titles as they scored from all angles—although they have yet to fully adjust their serves and the timing was still off.
The crowd cheered every won point and groaned after every lost rally and Rondina was disappointed they were unable to extend the performance.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity and we deeply appreciate the warm reception,” the 28-year-oldRondina said, vowing to do everything she could to fight for medals in future tournaments with the Southeast Asian Games in December as the main goal.
“So amazing! It just feels so bad that it ended early,” she said.
As the Filipina pair scored on cut shots, tips and the occasional power smash, Pons also wanted desperately to
get a block and disrupt the Romanians’ offense, but her timing was still off and the taller visitors prevailed.
“I’m proud of our performance here. The preparation was really short, but we worked hard for this. Unfortunately, we fell short,” said Pons, noting they had less than a week to train.
“We have a lot to work on, I was looking to get that one kill block because that would have been huge in a close match like this. But this is still a good start and we’ll do better in the next events,” she added.
Coach Joao Luciano Kiodai also gave “SiPons” a passing mark, saying their return gives the national team an instant boost.
“It’s great to have them back. I think beach volleyball needs to have more assets like them that play indoor,” Kiodai said. “I hope Sisi and Bernadeth’s beach volleyball return opens that door. Beach volleyball is a great way to make it to the international stage, and there’s the pathway to the Olympics.”
Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, who is also chief of the Asian Volleyball Federation and executive vice president of the world governing body FIVB, is also hoping the top Philippine tandems on both the men’s and women’s sides can earn enough points to get a shot at wild card places in the Beach Volleyball World Championships Adelaide in November.
“Sisi and Bernadeth played very well, the chemistry is still there,” Suzara said. “Making the quarterfinals in this field is impressive.”
“Of course they need to train more
ROGELIO “JAY-R” ESQUIVEL clinched an individual bronze medal to power the Philippine team to a podium finish in the International Surfing Association (ISA) World Longboard Championships over the weekend at the El Sunzal resort in El Salvador.
Showing strong resiliency and grace on the waves, the 28-year-old from San Juan in La Union got 730 points to finish third in the 61-surfer men’s individual event ruled by France’s Edourd Delpero (1000) and Brazil’s Rodrigo Sphaier (860).
“Thank you for bringing our Philippine surfing to the world grand stage,” United Philippines Surfing Association president Dr. Jose Canlas said. “We are all proud of him.”
and make adjustments because it has been only a few weeks since their indoor season ended and they trained for this only recently, but did very good and making the quarterfinals in this field is impressive,” he added.
Progella-Pagara, Buytrago-Varga also shine THREE matches in a scorching day proved too much for Khylem Progella and Sofia Pagara as they lost steam in the quarterfinals, bowing to Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Beach Tour Nuvali Open silver medalists Shaunna Polley and Olivia MacDonald of New Zealand, 17-21, 14-21.
The University of Santo Tomas stars earlier scored an impressive 21-16, 21-17 victory over Vanuatu’s Sherysyn Toko and Majabelle Lawac, winners on the Australia Beach Volleyball Tour in 2023, after getting past Dutch spikers Danieke Prins and Annemieke Driessen, 23-25, 21-11, 15-10.
James Buytrago and Rancel Varga could not duplicate their silver medal finish in last year’s Futures Nuvali tournament as Eylon Elazar and Kevin Cuzmiciov of Israel won their quarterfinal showdown, 21-17, 21-15, in the tournament organized by the PNVF and backed by Ayala Land, Nuvali Evoliving, Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission, PLDT Home, Rebisco, Akari, Mikasa, Microtel by Wyndham South Forbes, Cignal, One Sports, Pilipinas Live, Senoh, Alibaba Cloud, ialchemy, One Over Zero Technologies and Supreme Infotech Solutions.
Junior JPGT gets going in Mactan
OMEGROWN
Htalents try to make the most of their course familiarity as the International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) Mactan Island Junior Philippine Golf Tour (PGT) Championships gets under way Monday at the par-72 Mactan Island Golf Course in Cebu.
The tournament launches the Visayas-Mindanao series of the nationwide Junior PGT.
B8 Monday, May 5, 2025 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph
The Philippine team of Esquivel, Crisanto Villanueva, Mara Lopez and Daisy de la Torre also bagged the bronze medal in the longboard team event after accumulating 2288 points against 44 other nations including Asian countries Chinese-Taipei, Thailand, Japanand South Korea. France won the team gold medal for the fourth straight year with 2865 points with Team USA finishing second with 2335 points.
The event, the first of seven regional legs, stakes crucial ranking points across three age-group divisions for coveted spots in the North vs. South Elite Junior Finals later this year.
These will bring together the top performers from both the VisMin and Luzon circuits, with the latter’s first three legs held last month at Eagle Ridge, Sherwood Hills and Splendido Taal.
“This victory is a testament to the dedication of our athletes and the invaluable guidance of UPSA [US Surfing Association] coaches Bjorn Pabon and Manuel Melindo,” Canlas said. “You have made the country proud. Thank you also to our supporters. Your belief in our athletes fuels their journey.”
Canlas thanked the Manuel V. Pangilinan Sports Foundation, Philippine Sports Commission, and the Philippine Olympic Committee headed by Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino for their participation in El Salvador. Josef Ramos with Troi Santos
While Cebu’s local bets enjoy the socalled homecourt advantage on the tight and flat Mactan layout—sknown for its narrow fairways, subtle defenses and tricky sand and water hazards—they face stiff resistance from a determined and well-prepared Mindanao contingent hungry to assert its dominance.
Mindanao players are represented in all divisions headlined by Davao’s Precious Zaragosa and Cagayan de Oro’s Kenley Yu in the 15-18 category and Cebu standouts Apple Gotiong, Lois Laine Go and Niña Balangauan in the girls’ division.
For Coach Ompong
In the photo, he was with his peers and colleagues—Bob Salvacion and Hans Peter Smit. Merida, coached Ateneo from the late 90s while Salvacion carved out a name for himself with the University of the Philippines. Smit is an institution with La Salle.
All three men are no longer with their alma maters having given way to younger coaches—former players.
All three men are no longer the sturdy and well-chiseled selves who were bronzed by the sun (save for Smit who is fairskinned despite his best efforts to get a tan).
All three are legends and have guided their schools to multiple championships. Merida had a “three-peat” of his own from 2004-06. However, last week, it was Salvacion and Smit who were toasting Merida. I was invited to share anecdotes about Merida as I covered him for over a decade. Sadly, I was unable to attend. The next best thing is to do what I have done from the start—write about him. If I have a story to tell about Ompong, the first will be the finals of
By Josef Ramos
told BusinessMirror on Sunday. “He still has not mastered his timing because of the long injury layoff.” “But it will come. EJ is the consummate pro and battle hardened,” Lafferty said. “His core fitness and speed it best. Look what people must realize is the technical nature and fickleness of pole vault.” The 29-year-old Obiena only managed 5.62m in Xiamen.
THE Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix will officially stay through 2041 after South Florida Motorsports (SFM),
the 2005 Unievrsity Athletic Association of the Philippines championship game where Ateneo played University of Santo Tomas (UST).
The game went into a penalty shootout after both teams were level at 1-1 after extra time. Merida selected the five Ateneans to take the spot kicks then to the surprise of everyone retreated to the bench and lay down.
“If a cheer came up from my right side, that means UST scored. If a cheer came from the left side, Ateneo scored,” he told me.
“Whoever cheered last would be the champion.”
Even the penalty shoot-out went into extra spot kicks. With the score 9-8 in Ateneo’s favor, UST hoped to score then stop Ateneo’s 10th penalty attempt.
But the cheer came from the left.
ROGELIO “JAY-R” ESQUIVEL rides the waves on the way to a podium finish.
Editor: Jun Lomibao
SISI RONDINA and Bernadeth Pons are getting back into the groove. NONIE REYES
