THE increase in commodity prices may be flat in May as ample rice and fish supply eased inflationary pressures during the month, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
In its latest month-ahead inflation forecast, BSP said it projects inflation to settle within 0.9 and 1.7 percent in May 2025.
It may be noted that based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), this is the lowest since the 0.6 percent posted in October 2019.
“Easing prices of rice and fish due to favorable domestic supply conditions in conjunction with lower oil prices, electricity rates, and the peso appreciation contributed to the downward price pressures for the month. These could be offset in part by higher prices of vegetables and meat items,” BSP said.
If inflation in May settles within the forecast of the BSP, this will be the third consecutive month this year when inflation is below the target of the government.
The Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) aims to keep inflation within 2 to 4 percent until 2028, the year the President steps down from office.
“Going forward, the Monetary
BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr.: “The recent slowdown in inflation has given the Monetary Board more room to introduce reductions in the policy rate.”
Board will continue to take a measured approach in adjusting the monetary policy stance in line with its price stability objectives conducive to balanced and sustainable growth of the economy and employment,” BSP said.
Earlier, the BSP said it is considering two more 25-basis-point cuts in key policy rates this year given the slowdown in inflation
given the Monetary Board more room to introduce reductions in the policy rate.
PSA
was 9.5 percent higher than the $24.54 billion recorded in the same period last year.
“The commodity group with the highest annual increment in the value of exports in April 2025 was other manufactured goods with $497.54 million,” the PSA said. “This was followed by bananas (fresh) with an annual increase of $30.56 million, and coconut oil with an annual increment of $28.47 million.”
By major trading partner, the country’s top export market was the United States of America, which cornered $1.03 billion or 15.2 percent of the country’s total exports in April 2025. In the first four months, exports to the US reached $4.26 billion or 15.9 percent of total earnings.
and rise in global uncertainties.
BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. said in a briefing that the recent slowdown in inflation has
The next meeting of the Monetary Board is slated for June 19 where, Remolona said, a rate cut is on the table. However, Remolona said this may not necessarily be consecutive cuts.
The uncertainties in the global economy, Remolona said, is one of the major factors in the monetary policy setting of the BSP. These are causing BSP to tread monetary policy carefully (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/05/24/jitterswiden-elbow-room-for-rate-cuts/).
DOF projects ₧25-B net revenue with CMEPA
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
THE Philippines stands to gain P25 billion in net revenues within five years through a new law that standardizes taxes on interest income, stock transactions and documentary stamps, in its bid to strengthen capital markets.
The Department of Finance (DOF) announced on Friday that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed into law Republic Act No. 12214, or the Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act (CMEPA), on Thursday night.
The new law is projected to generate over P25 billion from 2025 to 2030 and reduce the country’s fiscal deficit to 3.8 percent of GDP by 2028.
CMEPA will modernize the tax system on passive income, making it more competitive, regionally aligned and investor-friendly, according to the DOF.
As such, the law standardizes the tax on interest income at 20 percent to “promote equity and
eliminate tax arbitrage.” It also reduces the Stock Transaction Tax (STT) from 0.6 percent to 0.1 percent and the Documentary Stamp Tax (DST) on the original issue of shares of stock from 1 percent to 0.75 percent.
The law further exempts from DST the original issuance, redemption, or transfer of mutual fund shares, as well as certificates or proof of participation in mutual funds or investment trust funds.
“These measures are expected to cut transaction costs, encourage market participation and financial planning, boost market liquidity, make the country’s equities market regionally competitive, and increase capital market growth,” the DOF said. To ensure equitable taxation of similar financial transactions, CMEPA also imposes a uniform 0.75 percent DST on
tures, and
of
or
CMEPA also defines “passive income” and clarifies and expands the definition of “securities” to ensure consistent tax treatment across various financial instruments.
Moreover, private employers contributing an amount equal to or greater than their employees’ contributions to Personal Equity and Retirement Accounts (PERA), as provided under Republic Act No. 9505, are entitled to an additional 50 percent tax deduction on their actual contributions.
The tax exemption for pickup trucks not used for livelihood purposes was also repealed under CMEPA.
THE Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (Ledac) is pushing for the passage of seven priority bills in the remaining six session days of the 19th Congress.
In a statement, the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev) said the priority measures are on connectivity, investment, and healthcare.
DepDev said the bills are under the Ledac Common Legislative Agenda and are scheduled for deliberation in the Bicameral Conference Committee.
DEPARTMENT of Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. and Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque inspect meat prices at Mega Q Mart in Quezon City on March 31, 2025. This follows the government’s price control measures amid easing inflation and ample food supply. NONOY LACZA
PHL export earnings grow 7% to $6.75B in April 2025
The data showed exports to the United States saw one of the slowest growth rates among the country’s top five export markets during the period. It can be noted that it was in April when the 10-percent increase in tariffs was implemented by the US government.
Philippine exports to the United States posted a 5.9-percent growth in April 2025 compared to last year. In the January to April period, export earnings from US customers were 10.6 percent.
Apart from the United States, exports to Hong Kong reached $918.74 million or 13.6 percent of the country’s export earnings during the period. In the January to April 2025 period, exports to Hong Kong reached $3.54 billion or 13.2 percent of the country’s total export earnings.
Exports to Hong Kong, however, posted a double-digit decline of 10.8 percent in April 2025 and a growth of 2.5 percent in the January to April 2025 period versus last year.
Japan, meanwhile, became the country’s third largest export market, cornering $893.6 million or 13.2 percent of the country’s export earnings for April 2025. In the first four months of the year, ex-
port earnings from Japan reached $3.79 billion or 14.1 percent of the total.
The growth of the country’s exports to Japan was pegged at 6.3 percent in April 2025 versus April 2024 and at 10.7 percent in the January to April 2025 period compared to the same period last year.
Philippine exports to the People’s Republic of China amounted to $697.63 million or 10.3 percent of total export earnings in April 2025. In the first four months of the year, exports to China reached $2.78 billion or 10.4 percent of the total.
In terms of growth, exports to China contracted 1.7 percent in April 2025 and 3.6 percent in the January to April 2025 period.
Rounding up the top five export markets for the Philippines was Canada, which reached $478.5 million or 7.1 percent of the country’s total export earnings during the period.
In the first four months, exports to Canada amounted to $659.92 million or 2.5 percent of the country’s export earnings during the period.
The country’s export earnings from Canada posted the fastest growth of 931.3 percent in April 2025 and 295 percent in the January to April 2025 period.
Meanwhile, the country’s total import receipts in April 2025 amounted to $10.24 billion, indicating an annual decline of 7.2 percent from the $11.03-billion import value in the same month of the previous year.
In March 2025 and April 2024, the import value recorded annual increases of 17.8 percent and 13.2 percent, respectively.
The year-to-date annual total import value, that is from January to April 2025, amounted to $42.78 billion. This represents an annual increment of 5.6 percent from the year-to-date annual total import value of $40.53 billion in January to April 2024.
Narrowest trade gap
THE data also showed that with exports posting a 7-percent growth and imports contracting 7.2 percent, the country’s trade deficit narrowed by 26.1 percent. This is the narrowest trade deficit recorded by the country since March 2023 when the deficit narrowed by 33.2 percent.
Ledac…
“We thank the leadership of both the Senate and the House of Representatives for their dedication in crafting sound, strategic, coherent, and responsive policies for our country. We remain hopeful that the remaining set of bills will be passed just in time before the end of the 19th Congress,” DepDev Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan.
The seven legislative measures are the Amendments to the Foreign Investors’ Long-Term Lease Act; the Rationalization of the Mining Fiscal Regime; and the Amendments to the Universal Health Care Act.
The list also includes the EGovernment Act / E-Governance Act; the Virology Institute of the Philippines; and the Blue Economy Act.
Also included is the Konektadong Pinoy Act, which aims to improve digital connectivity in the country and provide affordable internet access for every Filipino by enhancing market accessibility, upgrading physical and digital infrastructure, and enabling full participation of individuals and businesses in the digital economy.
“We look forward, in particular, to the Konektadong Pinoy Act—a critical bill that DepDev has been championing for some time. We firmly believe this measure holds immense promise in transforming the lives of all Filipinos by ensuring reliable and affordable Internet access,” Balisacan said.
DepDev said two additional bills—the National Government Rightsizing Program and the Amendments to the Right-of-Way Act—are also being eyed for passage by the end of the 19th Congress.
The BoT-G in April 2025 amounted to $3.49 billion. In March 2025, the trade deficit widened 34.5 percent, while the deficit narrowed 2.2 percent in April 2024.
The PSA data also showed that in April 2025, the country’s total external trade in goods amounted to $16.99 billion, which indicates an annual decrement of 2 percent from the $17.34 billion total external trade in the same period of the previous year.
In March 2025 and April 2024, the total external trade in goods recorded annual increases of 14.2 percent and 18.2 percent, respectively. Of the total external trade in April 2025, 60.3 percent were imported goods, while the remaining 39.7 percent were exported goods. Cai U. Ordinario PHILIPPINE EXPORT PERFORMANCE – APRIL 2025
CMEPA…
To date, DepDev said 32 out of the government’s 64 Common Legislative Agenda bills have been enacted into law. Balisacan expressed his confidence in the united efforts of the Executive and Legislative branch to see this number increase by the end of the 19th Congress and in the 20th Congress.
The 19th Congress will resume on June 2 for a six-day session before it adjourns sine die on June 13. The 20th Congress is set to convene its first session day on July 28. The Ledac serves as the primary consultative and advisory body to the President, ensuring harmony between executive development planning and congressional budgeting. For the 19th Congress, the Council identified 64 bills expected to advance the country’s socioeconomic and development goals. Cai U. Ordinario
“We
to the
By
more
and more accessible— especially for
open the door to
inclusion for our people,” Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said. “This is a major victory for the country, as inclusive access to investment opportunities and a broader, deeper financial system are vital pillars of long-term, inclusive growth,” Recto added.
SLOW BUT STEADY Containers stack up at the Port of Manila as Philippine export earnings rise 7% in April 2025, the slowest growth since December. Despite this, key products keep trade afloat while a shrinking trade deficit signals cautious optimism. BERNARD TESTA
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Incoming congressman to file bill providing strict rules on airline passenger offloading
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz
AN
lawmaker is proposing a measure restricting the grounds for denying departure to specific, documented cases—such as active hold departure orders or validated referrals from agencies like the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (Iacat).
Incoming Albay Rep. Adrian Salceda said he will file the proposed Filipino Travelers’ Rights Act during the opening week of the 20th Congress next month. The measure seeks to safeguard Filipinos’ right to travel by ending arbitrary offloading practices at Philippine airports and modernizing outbound immigration procedures.
The bill narrows the reasons for offloading passengers to only documented and legally valid grounds, saying the current profiling practices disproportionately impact women and young travelers, who are often judged based on appearance, job type, or perceived income rather than clear legal standards.
To address this, the measure also proposes an online pre-clearance system that allows travelers to upload proof of income, travel documents, and itineraries. Unless flagged for valid concerns, these travelers would be exempt from face-to-face interviews at immigration counters.
“Let’s use technology to enforce the law fairly,” Salceda added. “The focus of immigration officers should be those entering the country illegally, not those trying to leave it lawfully.” Salceda also underscored the proposal’s
economic rationale. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) shows that over 3.8 million Filipinos traveled abroad in 2023, including 1.9 million overseas workers and 1.2 million outbound tourists. Even minor disruptions can cause major setbacks.
“If just 1 percent of outbound travelers lose a confirmed job, for example, because of unjust offloading, that could mean P3.6 billion to P5.5 billion in foregone annual remittances, based on average OFW remittance per worker of P150,000 to P230,000 per year,” Salceda explained.
He also pointed out that administrative costs from unnecessary interviews and appeals burden both travelers and the state.
“Each unnecessary interview takes about 10 to 15 minutes. That’s equivalent to nearly 20,000 work hours per year at immigration counters spent questioning people who should have been allowed to board. That time is better spent screening inbound threats,” he said.
The bill mandates the Bureau of Immigration to adopt international best practices for outbound screening, such as risk-based assessments, automated flagging systems, updated watchlists, and training on anti-trafficking and human rights. It also explicitly bans profiling based solely on age, gender, income, or travel history.
“This bill doesn’t weaken border control—it makes it smarter. We fight trafficking more effectively by focusing on real risk factors, not by humiliating young women in airports,” Salceda said.
Bright future for PHL with signing of Asean Vision 2045–DTI exec
By Andrea San Juan
THE Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Vision 2045 presents “greater opportunities” for Filipino businesses, MSMEs and workers, particularly improved market access, among others, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.
“For the Philippines, the Asean Vision 2045 presents greater opportunities for Filipino businesses, MSMEs, and workers,” DTI said in a statement on Thursday.
These include improved market access, enhanced digital trade facilitation, and greater support for sustainable and creative industries.
“Consumers are also set to benefit from stronger product standards, broader access
to goods and services, and enhanced regional consumer protection, among others,” DTI also noted.
In the statement, DTI revealed that President Marcos, accompanied by Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque, signed on May 26 the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Asean 2045: Our Shared Future.
As the incoming Asean Chairman in 2026, DTI said the Philippines will play a “leading role” in spearheading the implementation of the Asean Community Vision 2045.
The department, said the chairmanship carries both a “significant responsibility and a unique opportunity to influence regional priorities, champion inclusive growth, and ensure Asean’s progress directly benefits the lives of everyday people, especially in
communities that need it most.”
According to the Asean Community Vision 2045, Asean aims to be a “major player” in the global economy and aims to position itself as the fourth largest economy in the world.
In the next two decades, the Asean bloc pictures itself as an “enterprising region as well as a hub and centre of excellence, that is able to leverage on advances in sciences, tehcnology and innovation, and harness new sources of competitiveness, including creative economy and advanced industry.”
As it aims to be an “integral” part of the global supply chain, the Asean Vision 2045 said the regional bloc aims to streamline downstream and upstream production process, strengthen distribution and logistics networks,
Hotel marketing pros to continue promoting to domestic travelers
By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Special To The Businessmirror
SALES and marketing professionals in the hospitality industry will keep promoting their properties to domestic travelers, who continue to be a stable source of revenues.
Loleth So, president of the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) told the BusinessMirror, “The hospitality industry is focusing on what we’ve been doing well since the pandemic, promoting domestic
tourism. Filipinos traveling within the country have kept the industry moving, and that resilience continues to be our strength. We’re in this together, and we’re confident better days are ahead.”
The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that domestic tourism expenditure grew by 72 percent to P2.67 trillion in 2023. This dwarfed the inbound tourism expenditures amounting to P697.5 billion that year. Most domestic travelers spent some P585.84 million on hotel accommodations in 2023.
She added that HSMA is hopeful the Department of Tourism (DOT) will be able to arrest the recent decline in tourist arrivals in the country. “We trust that the DOT is already working on fresh ideas to help turn things around. The Philippines has so much to offer, and we believe people will keep coming back once the momentum picks up.”
‘Recovery takes time’
DOT data showed the 2.1 million visitors from abroad arrived in the country from January to April, with decreases registered
in key source markets. Other tourism leaders have suggested ways for DOT to promote the country better, especially to nontraditional markets, and adopt schemes to ease the traveler experience. (See, “Better marketing, visitor experience’ to save tourism,” in the B usiness M irror , May 27, 2025.)
“We’ve seen the numbers, and yes, 2.1 million tourist arrivals so far is lower than expected. But HSMA is staying hopeful.
Escudero justifies resetting reading of complaint vs VP
By Butch Fernandez
THE Senate leadership on Friday
asserted that at least 12 urgent pending bills merit priority attention when the chamber convenes on June 2, by way of justifying the resetting to June 11 of the presentation by House prosecutors of the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.
In a statement, Senate President Francis Escudero said that he was prompted to reset the formal reading aloud by congressmen of the complaint before the Senate in plenary session because, with only six sessions days from June 2 to June 14—when the 19th Senate adjourns sine die—the 12 priority bills must be acted on quickly so as not to derail needed reforms.
In this he received full support from the chambers’s No. 2 executive, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada.
“While among the functions and responsibilities of the Senate is to act as
an impeachment court, its primary mandate is to legislate—to craft, deliberate, and pass laws that promote the general welfare of the people,” Estrada said in a statement.
“The passage of the priority bills should take precedence as asserted by Senate President Escudero as sine die adjournment marks the official end of our regular session.”
This, Estrada stressed, is in line with agreements in the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (Ledac) meeting that earlier listed priority measures that both houses of Congress will tackle.
The Ledac is a tripartite body composed of the Executive, Senate and the House of Representatives.
In his letter to Speaker Martin Romualdez on Thursday, Escudero sought the House’s understanding for resetting from June 2 to 11 the earlier agreed date for the formal presentation by the House prosecution panel of the articles of impeachment
against the vice president.
Apart from the approval of bills, the Senate President also cited the need to act on over 200 presidential appointments, including the three cabinet secretaries, four officials of constitutional commissions, 39 foreign service officers, and 277 officers of the Armed Forces (AFP).
On Escudero’s list of urgent legislative measures, as agreed on in the Ledac’s May 29 meeting, that will be tackled starting June 2 are:
1. Amendments to the Foreign Investors’ Long-Term Lease Act; 2. E-Governance Act; 3. Open Access in Data Transmission (Konektadong Pinoy Act);
4. Rationalization of the Fiscal Mining Regime;
5. Amendments to the Universal Health Care Act;
6. Virology Institute of the Philippines; 7. Government Optimization Act;
8. Amendments to the Right-of-Way Act;
9. Setting the Term of Office of Barangay Officials and Members of the Sangguniang Kabataan 10. Judicial Fiscal Autonomy; 11. Denatured Alcohol Tax; and 12. Anti-POGO Act
“With only six session days before the sine die adjournment, it is imperative for the Senate and the House of Representatives to prioritize the passage of these measures, consistent also with the administration’s thrust to align our government with the people’s needs and expectations,” Escudero said.
Originally set for June 2, 2025, the presentation of the Articles of Impeachment is a necessary first step to initiate the impeachment proceedings in the Senate. Once presented in plenary, the Senate can already constitute itself as an impeachment court and conduct the trial of the Vice President.
BuCor sets up half-way houses for prisoners awaiting release
DIRECTOR General Gregorio Pio
P. Catapang Jr.of the Bureau of Corrections has directed the establishment of halfway houses in all
operating prisons and penal farms (OPPFs) nationwide in a bid to strengthen reintegration program for prisoners or persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).
In his memorandum addressed to OPPFs superintendents and external affair sections or units, Catapang stressed the need for a comprehensive program for PDLs within the halfway houses, which serve as temporary residences for individuals awaiting release.
“This initiative aims not only to prepare PDLs for their eventual release but also to ensure they have the support and resources necessary for successful reintegration into society, “ Catapang said.
Hotel. . .
Continued from A3
Among the programs to be introduced in halfway houses are counseling sessions, orientation activities, interviews, and short courses designed to equip PDLs with the skills and knowledge they need for life after incarceration.
“This holistic approach recognizes that preparing individuals for reintegration involves more than simply setting them free but it requires equipping them with the tools to navigate societal challenges effectively,” Catapang said. Joel R. San Juan
Tourism is still bouncing back around the world, and these things take time,” said So, who is also Group Commercial Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts.
STR, a hospitality data analyst, has said gross operating profit per available room (Goppar) by Metro Manila hotels hit a peak growth of $12 in November 2024, compared to November 2023, and fell by $1 in March 2024, versus March 2023. This reflects the country’s continuing sluggishness in inbound tourist arrivals. (See, “PHL hotels’ 2025
Comelec strips Porac’s Capil of victory
CLARK FIELD, Pampanga—The Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) Second Division has disqualify re-elected Porac Mayor Jaime Capil and declared his votes stray two weeks after the polls.
Capil got a few votes less than 40,000 beating his nearest rival, Michael Tapang, who got a few votes more than 23,000.
In a 10-page resolution promulgated Wednesday the Second Division presided over by Commissioner Rey Bulay with Commissioners Nelson Celis and Noli Pipo as members ordered the Municipal Board of Canvassers (MBOC) of Porac to reconvene, amend the certificate of canvass, and proclaim the candidate with the “highest number of valid votes” as the duly elected mayor.
Pursuant to the ruling, a notice to reconvene the MBOC on June 3 at 10 a.m. at the old municipal building in barangay Poblacion, Porac.
MBOC chairperson Lizette Mallari issued the notice.
Comelec Region III Assistant Director Elmo Duque explained that Capil’s disqualification stemmed from an April 3, 2025 decision by the Office of the Ombudsman which declared Capil ineligible to run for public office. The decision was implemented on April 5.
“Although independent body kami kailangangi-implement ang decision ngibang ahensyanggobyernosamgabagaynanauukol sa qualification ng isang kandidato. At ngayon eto ngayon ang case na kung saan iyong pagkahalal ni respondent Capil ay kailangan i-decide ngayon ng Second Division na makansela yung kanyang ano [certificate of candidacy], hindisiyamaibilang na kanididato,” Duque said.
occupancy, revenue to stay stable: STR,” in the B usiness M irror , March 21, 2025.)
HSMA, which has over 140 members from hotels and resorts nationwide, announced it will hold its third Sales and Marketing Summit on June 19, 2025, at the Grand Ballroom of the City of Dreams Manila.
HSMA Summit in June
THIS year’s theme, “Leading the Shift: Redefining Hospitality Sales and Marketing for the Next Generation,” highlights the industry’s need to embrace innovation, sharpen commercial strategies, and build future-ready teams amid the rapidly changing tourism landscape.
“The HSMA Summit is where industry leaders and rising stars come together to shape the future of Philippine tourism,” said So in a news conference on Thursday. “The next generation of sales and marketing professionals must attend not just to learn, but to lead. This summit gives them the tools, insights, and inspiration they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world,” she added.
“Ang epekto kasi ng resolution na ito, ang ibig sabihin tinanggal siya bilang kandidato. Hindi siya kandidato. Ibig sabihin lahat ng boto ay hindi nauukol sa kaniya kasi hindi nga siya kandidato. So stray vote iyon,” Duque added.
Former provincial board member Mike Tapang, Capil’s closest rival and the petitioner in the case, filed for Capil’s disqualification based on the Ombudsman’s ruling. The case stemmed from Capil’s alleged involvement with Lucky South 99, an illegal Philippine offshore gaming operator based in Porac which was raided in June 2024. The Ombudsman found Capil guilty of gross neglect of duty in connection with the case.
Capil confirmed on Wednesday that he has received a copy of the resolution and said that would file a motion for reconsideration on Friday.
The investigation into Lucky South 99 has expanded since the raid. Earlier this month, Branch 118 of the Regional Trial Court in Angeles City ordered the arrest of former presidential spokesperson Herminio Roque and Cassandra Ong, an accused key player in Lucky South 99 and Whirlwind Corporation, along with more than 30 others. They were accused of qualified human trafficking. Both companies are allegedly involved in human trafficking operations. The Department of Justice has also initiated the cancellation of the passports of Roque, Ong, and three others identified as flight risks. Roque cried political persecution and has sought assylum in the Netherandsm where his boss, former President Rodrigo Duterte is detained, awaiting trial for crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court. Ashley J. Manabat
The summit will feature keynote presentations, executive panels, and specialized sessions covering critical topics such as: the impact of government policies on hospitality businesses, channel management and distribution strategies, revenue optimization and artificial intelligence-driven marketing, leadership development for the next generation of sales and marketing professionals, and building meaningful industry relationships that drive conversions.
“As we gather for our third summit, we’re focused on creating meaningful discussions that translate to transformative strategies for attendees,” said HSMA Chair Margarita Munsayac (VP, Bluewater Resorts). “The insights shared at this event will help shape the future of hospitality sales and marketing practices in the country,” she underscored.
n For more information and inquiries, contact HSMA on their Facebook page @HSMAPH or Instagram account @ HSMAPhilippines
GSIS 88th Anniversary
AS the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) celebrates its 88th anniversary, we honor the journey of service that has spanned generations. For nearly nine decades, GSIS has remained steadfast in its commitment to protect, support, and uplift the lives of government workers and pensioners nationwide.
This milestone is more than just a number but also a reaffirmation of our purpose: to deliver Ginhawa for all in every stage of our members’ lives. With every policy reform, loan program, insurance coverage, and digital innovation, we continue to push boundaries to make government service more rewarding and secure.
In 2024, GSIS recorded one of its strongest financial performances to date, with net income reaching P135.7 billion, a 21% increase from the previous year. Total as -
sets rose to P1.83 trillion, fueled by robust investment returns and efficient operations. Our insurance business also exceeded expectations, solidifying GSIS’s position as the largest state insurer. These results reflect our financial resilience and our ability to secure the fund life through 2058 and beyond.
The theme for this year, “Basta Sama-Sama, Tuloy-Tuloy ang Ginhawa,” reflects our belief that progress is best achieved through unity and shared action. Whether it’s
expanding digital access, launching inclusive housing initiatives, or strengthening financial and social protection, every milestone in this supplement tells the story of what we can accomplish together.
As we mark the GSIS 88th Anniversary this May 31, 2025, we will continue to make real-life impact in the lives of our members and pensioners. That’s why we are introducing the Ginhawa Max Loan Buyout (former MPL Max), part of the Ginhawa loan series alongside Ginhawa Flex and Ginhawa Lite. Ginhawa Max Loan Buyout offers government workers a way out of high-interest debt by buying out existing loans and replacing them with lower-interest GSIS loans of up to P5 million. With interest rates as low as 6% and repayment terms of up to 10 years, Ginhawa Max is now easier to access—agencies no longer need to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA); a simple Letter of Intent (LOI) from the agency head or representative will do.
GSIS Board of Trustees: (from left to right) Trustee Gary V. De Guzman, Trustee Evelina G. Escudero, Trustee Beatriz G. Torno, Chairman Rodolfo G. Del Rosario Jr.,
PGM Jose Arnulfo “Wick” A. Veloso, Trustee Ma. Merceditas N. Gutierrez, Trustee Rita E. Riddle, Trustee Susana C. Fong, Trustee Emmanuel L. Samson
Content for clicks: How can generative AI and other tools help enhance beauty journalism?
Local cybersecurity teams facing lack of resources
BY RIZAL RAOUL REYES
OPPO,
Discovery
Channel bring global celebration moments to life
IN celebration of the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, tech giant OPPO reaffirms its commitment to cultural preservation and cross-cultural understanding through its global initiative “Culture in a Shot,” in partnership with Discovery Channel. Launched in 2024, this global initiative enters its second year and has documented cultures in 15 countries, continuing its mission to celebrate and preserve cultural diversity through OPPO’s imaging technology. As a global technology company operating in over 70 countries and regions, and serving 670 maillion of users worldwide, cultural diversity remains an integral part of its identity. Under the 2025 theme “Celebrate the Moment”, this year OPPO and Discovery Channel explores iconic festivals and celebrations across the globe—from the mystery of the Venice Carnival in Italy and the traditions of Nauryz in Kazakhstan, to the vibrant festive of Brazilian football culture. Through the lens of OPPO smartphones, the initiative captures the stories behind these celebrations and how younger generations are keeping traditions alive in new ways. Across the globe, festivals unite people through shared moments of joy, tradition, and togetherness. More than just vibrant spectacles, these cultural events are the heartbeat of communities—powerful expressions of history, identity, and human connection.
The journey this year begins in Italy with the
legendary Venice Carnival, a celebration where history and fantasy merge. Once rooted in aristocratic traditions, it has transformed into a global cultural event that invites people from all walks of life to participate. Traveling to Kazakhstan, the focus turns
to Nauryz, the traditional New Year festival that symbolizes renewal, prosperity, and unity. Deeply rooted in ancient customs, Nauryz transforms cities into open-air stages filled with music, dance, and elaborate costumes.
Beyond traditional festivals, some forms of celebration are woven into everyday life. In Brazil, the spotlight turns to a different kind of festivity— football. More than just a sport, football is a national celebration and cultural ritual of Brazil, embraced by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Beyond the professional photography produced by OPPO and Discovery Channel, OPPO also encourages its communities worldwide to document and share their own cultural identities.
In Malaysia, OPPO has been running the #OPPOMalaysiaThroughTheLens initiative since 2024, supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the Malaysian National Commission for Unesco. This year, the initiative captured the Thaipusam festival, a vibrant Malaysian Hindu tradition, highlighting how cultural practices are passed down through generations. The global cultural journey continues. OPPO and Discovery Channel will explore more festivals and traditions—celebrating the diversity that connects people across borders.
To discover more stories and cultural highlights, visit Culture in a Shot (oppo.discoverypartnerships.com) and join the #OPPOCultureChallenge that celebrates culture through the lens.
These
Despite
IT budgets are allocated to cybersecurity, representing just over 1.4 percent of total revenue—a small fraction given the scale and severity of threats.
“However, budgets are ticking up, with nearly 80 percent of organizations in the Philippines reporting an increase. However, most of these increases remain under 10 percent, suggesting that investment is still cautious,” he said.
“Organizations are increasingly shifting from infrastructure-heavy spending to more strategic investments. The top five priorities include identity security, network security, SASE/Zero Trust, cyber resilience, and cloud-native application protection—indicating a shift toward accesscentric, risk-based security planning,” Pandey explained in a recent press briefing held in Taguig City.
In the local scene, Pandey described that the local cybersecurity landscape is no longer defined by episodic crises but a state of constant exposure.
“Organizations in the Philippines are increasingly vulnerable to threats that operate in the shadows. The most reported threats include ransomware [66 percent], software supply chain attacks [62 percent], cloud vulnerabilities [58 percent], and insider threats [56 percent] and phishing [50 percent],” said Pandey.
He said most disruptive threats are not the usual ones but the unpatched and zero-day exploits, followed closely by insider threats, cloud misconfigurations, software supply chain attacks, and human error. “These threats are particularly damaging because they often go undetected by traditional defenses, exploiting internal weaknesses and visibility gaps. As a result, these quieter, more complex risks are now viewed as more dangerous than well-known threats like ransomware or phishing,” he said.
Pandey warned that traditional threats such as phishing and malware are still growing at a rate of less than 10 percent, but this is comparatively modest—likely due to mature defences like endpoint protection and awareness training. In contrast, the fastest-rising threats include supply chain attacks (16 percent), IoT/OT attacks (14 percent), both cloud vulnerabilities and insider threats (12 percent each), and unpatched/zero day (10 percent). These threats are scaling rapidly because they exploit gaps in governance, visibility, and system complexity—making them harder to detect and potentially more damaging when successful.
FROM A7
there’s support for 4K at 120fps, Dolby Vision at 60fps, and 4K video from the front cam—great perks for budget-conscious creators. But make no mistake—this isn’t a camera-first device. It’s dependable, not exceptional. For users who prioritize performance, gaming and screen time, it’ll do just fine.
FINAL WORD: In a market full of spec chasers and feature overload, the Realme GT 7T shines by doing the fundamentals exceptionally well. It doesn’t have a flashy gimmick or a complicated pitch: it’s just a well-rounded, high-performing, battery-stretching powerhouse.
At P29,999, it hits a sweet spot for users who want long-term reliability, premium features, and serious performance without burning a hole in their wallet. It won’t be the loudest device in the room but it will quietly outlast and outperform many of its peers. The Realme GT 7T isn’t here for show. It’s here to go the distance. ■
BusinessMirror
Realme GT 7T: The quiet contender with 7000mAh roar
NOT A TECH-SAVVY TITO OR TITA? HERE ARE SOME ONLINE BANKING SECURITY TIPS FOR OLDER INTERNET USERS
THE Philippines has almost 87 million individuals who use the internet, according to a 2024 report by digital solutions provider Meltwater. Digital adoption continues to grow across all ages in the country, with even older Filipinos exploring the online world to connect with loved ones, access information and services, and enjoy entertainment. However, unlike younger generations who grew up in the Information Age, cybersecurity doesn’t always come naturally to many of our elders. This knowledge becomes even more crucial when it comes to online banking. Terms like “phishing” or “malware” can be confusing—but protecting oneself online doesn’t always have to be complicated.
To help your titos, titas, and even lolos and lolas feel more confident and secure while using the latest that technology has to offer, here are some simple but sometimes overlooked online banking tips from CIMB Bank Philippines (www.cimbbank.com.ph), hailed the Best Digital Bank in the Philippines by The Asian Banker:
■ ENABLE BIOMETRICS WHENEVER POSSIBLE. Setting strong passwords is a crucial step when creating an online account, especially ones meant for online banking. However, you can make your account even safer through the use of biometrics. Many banking apps now feature advanced security options using biometrics, such as fingerprint or facial identification technology. Activate these features as soon as possible for added peace of mind.
■ USE OFFICIAL APPS ONLY AND KEEP THEM UPDATED. Before installing an app on your mobile device, double check if it is the official app of that company or service provider to help ensure all your transactions will be secure and legitimate. Apps also receive updates regularly from developers to fix bugs, reinforce security measures, or launch new features, so always check if the version you have is the latest one.
■ WHEN IN DOUBT, DON’T CLICK LINKS. Scammers are getting more creative by the day, with their methods becoming more convincing and seemingly legitimate. A common fraudulent method is called “smishing,” wherein scammers make use of text messages to deceive people into disclosing personal information such as passwords, bank details, or login credentials. Always keep in mind that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has mandated financial institutions to remove all clickable links in emails and SMS sent to customers. Therefore, if you receive a message with a link, no matter how legitimate it looks, do not click on these links.
■ LOG OUT AFTER EVERY USE. Another simple yet sometimes overlooked step is to log out after every use. After checking your account or wrapping up a transaction, always ensure that you log out of the banking app or website, especially if you’re on a shared or public device. This helps prevent unauthorized access and can save you from unnecessary worry later on.
Online banking security is a joint effort between you and your bank. By following these sensible habits, you are empowering yourself against potential threats. Take charge of your banking security today with the CIMB Bank PH mobile app. The mobile app offers features like biometric login, instant alerts, and regular updates that are all designed to keep you and your money secure. The app can be downloaded for free from the App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei AppGallery.
PARIS, the City of Lights, turned into a city under the spotlight as Realme made its most ambitious statement yet. Framed by the Eiffel Tower, the brand didn’t just debut new devices—it unveiled a bold new vision for its future in Europe.
During the event, Realme Vice President and CMO Chase Xu reflected on the brand’s early beginnings—how it entered a saturated market with over 700 smartphone brands just seven years ago. Today, it’s the only one to crack the global top 10 in the past decade. In Europe, its momentum is undeniable, climbing to a top-four position in France, Spain, Italy and Poland. The company’s next goal?
To hit 10 million units annually across the continent by deepening telco partnerships and achieving full e-commerce coverage.
But can the “City of Love” also spark global passion for Realme’s newest flagship killers?
The GT Series has long stood as a proving ground for Realme’s ability to push boundaries—whether through the GT2 Pro’s ultra-high-resolution flat display or the GT3’s record-breaking 240W charging tech. The new GT 7 Series follows that legacy, introducing the performance-driven GT 7, the collector’s GT 7 Dream Edition (co-designed with Aston Martin), and the more budget-friendly but impressively specced GT 7T.
While the Dream Edition might be one for collectors, the real spotlight lands on the GT 7 and GT 7T—devices that share a performance-focused DNA but are tuned for different user needs.
The GT 7 features the MediaTek Dimensity 9400e, a triple-camera system with telephoto, and a premium LTPO AMOLED display with Dolby Vision at P37,999. Meanwhile, the GT 7T enters the scene at P29,999, running on the Dimensity 8400-MAX with a dual-camera setup and LTPS AMOLED screen—but crucially retains the 6.78-inch 1.5K display, 7000mAh battery, 120W charging, IP69 durability, and next-gen cooling system.
I haven’t tested the GT 7 yet, but after spending a week with the GT 7T, I’m not sure I need to. It might just be the smarter pick—especially for anyone who wants the GT experience without the “Grander Tag” price.
ANXIETY OFF. LIFE ON
IT’S not just a catchy tagline, it perfectly sets the tone of what you can expect from the Realme GT 7T. Battery anxiety is real. That sinking feeling on a long commute or the desperate scramble for a charger/ powerbank before a meeting? We’ve all been there.
That’s why Realme packed the GT 7T with a massive 7000mAh TÜV 5-Star Certified battery— rare in phones this slim and light. At just 8.25mm
thick and 202g, it doesn’t feel bulky at all, staying comfortable for gaming, streaming, or doom scrolling. In daily use, it’s a battery beast. Light users can stretch it to nearly three days. Moderate use easily covers two, and even power users will get a solid full day with juice to spare. On the PCMark test at 50% brightness, it clocked an impressive 20 hours. Over my week of testing, I only needed to charge it once— and that was after our battery drain test. When you do plug in, 120W SUPERVOOC charging takes you from 0 to 50% in just 15 minutes, and a full charge in under 45. Bypass charging reduces heat during gameplay and helps extend battery health. With TÜV 5-Star safety certification, the GT 7T delivers top-tier endurance, speed and peace of mind.
PERFORMANCE THAT POWERS THROUGH AT the heart of the Realme GT 7T is the MediaTek Dimensity 8400-MAX, a 4nm chipset built for users who demand fluid multitasking and reliable gaming. Paired with 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB of UFS 4.0 storage, it delivers not just speed but sustained performance. You also get up to 12GB of virtual RAM expansion, keeping background tasks responsive without eating into storage.
In synthetic benchmarks, the GT 7T holds its own with an AnTuTu score of over 1.78 million, but beyond the numbers it’s in real-world usage where the phone shines. Everyday tasks like launching apps, web browsing, and photo editing are seamless, while heavier tasks—such as video rendering or game loading—complete with little to no delay. Gaming is where it shines. While it may not carry the “flagship” badge, it can easily go toe-to-toe with premium devices. It supports 120fps gameplay and ran Genshin Impact, Call of Duty: Mobile, and PUBG Mobile with fluid frame rates and sharp touch response. Frame drops were rare, even during intense
Politician feuds online with meme page over criticism, jokes in his city
BY PATRICK VILLANUEVA
WINNING an election and getting in an online drama days after with an infamous meme page is not in anyone’s bingo card this 2025, yet that number was called for Mayor Along Malapitan and meme page Filipino Trends That Matter (FTTM).
Returning Caloocan City Mayor Along Malapitan had an online beef with the infamous meme page FTTM over a joke about its city.
FTTM shared a post from Mayor Along, proving that his reign in the municipality lit up the streets of Caloocan. The picture showed a before and after in the city, with the “before” having no lights installed and the “after” getting a well-lit environment.
The feud then stemmed from the meme page putting the caption “FROM ISO 100 to ISO 1600,”
jokingly insinuating that the picture looked like it was from a camera setting. Mayor Along bit back with a different post by lighting up Phase 9 Maharlika and Damayan, proving it was indeed real and not just a camera trick. “Sabi ni FTTM, from ISO 100 to ISO 1600, ’yan mismo ang mga dalang liwanag ng mga proyekto nating streetlights sa Caloocan,” the post reads. “Walang adjust, adjust—kundi totoong liwanag ang dulot ng pinagsama-samang streetlights na ating binubuksan sa mga kalye at eskinita ng ating lungsod,” the post added. FTTM responded with its own barrage of posts. The first likened Mayor Along to Meralco, adding Bantayan ka namin sa pangalawang termino mo Along Malapitan.” Then they asked Mayor Along to explain a
flooded street in the city, with a picture of the Mayor’s sign getting flooded, reading, “This is where your tax goes. Construction of flood control wal[l] along the banks of creeks Brgy. 166, Caloocan City.” Yung hinaing po ng constituents niyo ang palagan ninyo, hindi ang meme namin,” another post from FTTM reads. The mayor did not respond thereafter. Online beefs between meme pages, critics and people in power can both be hilarious and informative. For one, online “Marites” can get a good laugh about the situation; and those in positions are forced to either explain or do good to avoid getting criticized. The feud proved a lot of things. But the takeaway? Critics are necessary to call out incompetency, lies and deception from public servants, and public servants are there to prove themselves otherwise.
firefights. To keep things running smoothly, the GT Boost software dynamically manages power and thermal behavior. With bypass charging support, you can game while plugged in without stressing the battery.
And thanks to the 7700mm² IceSense Graphene cooling system—Realme’s biggest yet—heat buildup is minimal. Compared to the GT 6, temps drop by up to 6°C keeping the phone cool even after extended sessions. Connectivity holds strong too. Dual 5G standby and the SignalCatcher algorithm ensure stable signal in patchy areas—ideal for mobile gamers and streamers on the move.
DESIGN AND DISPLAY THAT DAZZLE THE Realme GT 7T may not scream “gaming phone” from across the room—and that’s exactly the point. It leans into a sleek, modern aesthetic with a matte finish that resists fingerprints and smudges, reinforced by what Realme calls its ArmorShell design. This understated but durable look aligns with the GT Series’ evolution from flashy speedsters to refined powerhouses.
Available in two colorways (IceSense Blue and IceSense Black), the phone’s design inspiration draws from advanced cooling tech and elemental resilience. The frosted look and cool-tone palette evoke the highperformance thermal materials inside, most notably the IceSense Graphene cooling system embedded within. The IP69-rated ArmorShell body, plus waterproofing and toughened glass round out a phone that’s built to play—and survive—the daily grind. Turn the phone on, and the 6.78-inch AMOLED display makes an immediate impression. It’s large, yes, but more importantly it’s sharp, fast, and remarkably bright. With a 1.5K resolution, the panel strikes a balance between battery efficiency and visual clarity, rendering text crisp and colors vivid. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures buttery-smooth scrolling and animations, and it’s paired with a touch sampling rate of 360Hz, boosting up to 2,500Hz instantaneously during gaming or high-pressure input. Perhaps the most jaw-dropping spec is the 6000nit peak brightness. This is one of the brightest smartphone displays on the market today, and you can see it – literally. Even in direct sunlight, the GT 7T’s screen remains very legible.
POINT AND SHOOT
THE Realme GT 7T plays it safe when it comes to cameras. It’s equipped with a 50MP Sony IMX906 main sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide, and a 32MP front shooter. It’s not a headline feature, especially without the GT 7’s telephoto lens, but it’s more than enough for everyday snaps, TikToks, and Zoom calls. Photos taken in daylight come out sharp with good dynamic range. Low
Philippines to host YSEALI Bootcamp for Southeast Asian content creators
THE United States Embassy is hosting a Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) regional workshop that will help 60 young content creators build new connections and strengthen their digital storytelling skills.
The “Creators Co-Lab: YSEALI Bootcamp for Digital Creators” in Manila from May 28 to June 1 will cover key topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, brand development and intellectual property.
The content creators will learn from notable social media mentors who will include journalist Jacque Manabat. They will also visit the Manila offices of leading U.S. technology companies such as Microsoft and Meta.
“We are thrilled to support Southeast Asia’s vibrant community of content creators,” Amb. MaryKay Carlson said. “These digital innovators are revolution -
Albania’s natl library houses copy of ‘Florante at Laura’
THE National Library of Albania now houses the Albanian edition of Francisco Balagtas’ epic poem “Florante at Laura.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said five copies of the book would be available for Albanian nationals—making it the first title by a Filipino author to be part of the library’s collection.
For the DFA, the event was a “notable point in Philippines-Albania cultural [ties],” as it improved accessibility of Filipino literature in the capital city of Tirana.
The translation project was an initiative of the Philippine Embassy in Rome, which has jurisdiction over Albania, in collaboration with the National Book Development Board of the Philippines (NBDB).
Nonresident envoy of the Philippines to Albania Neal Imperial said the book holds the distinction of “being the only poem in the Philippines that has not gone out of publication since its initial release in 1838.”
“Thanks to this translation, Albanian readers can now explore the richness of Filipino literary heritage, and perhaps see echoes of their own stories and values in the characters of Florante and Laura,” Imperial said. “It is my hope that it will inspire curiosity about the Philippines’ culture, language, and our shared humanity.”
The book was published in the Southeastern Europe country in April through a translation grant by the NBDB, in partnership with Ombra Publishing.
A special edition will be published for the Frankfurt Book Fair in October, where the Philippines will be the guest of honor.
Ombra Publishing donated copies to guests at the launch, which included Albanian academics, journalists and media personalities, writers, poets, publishers and members of the Filipino community in Albania. Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA
izing how we stay informed and connected.”
“You are not just creating content—you are bridging connections,” Manabat told participants at the April 6 virtual orientation session. “Your story and creativity matter.”
The creators collectively have a total of 15 million followers across multiple platforms. Ten of the 60 participants are from the Philippines.
YSEALI is the US government’s signature program strengthening leadership development and networking among Southeast Asians under the age of 35. Since its 2013 launch, the initiative
has been developing the Asean youths’ capabilities in promoting civic engagement, environmental and natural resource management, education, economic development and good governance via a variety of programs that include US educational and cultural exchanges, regional exchanges and seed funding. All participants of the workshop will become members of the
US government and YSEALI exchange program alumni networks that will open them to unique opportunities, including grants and networking.
The “Creators Co-Lab: YSEALI Bootcamp for Digital Creators” is implemented by the Out of the Box Media Literacy Initiative through funding from the US Embassy in the Philippines, in partnership with the US Mission to Asean.
SM continues to champion inclusive, quality education and workforce development as Asia Pacific College (APC)—a member of the SM group—announced that, as of 2024, 97.28 percent of its alumni have successfully secured employment after graduation—underscoring the institution’s commitment to career readiness.
Through its educational institutions APC, National University and the SM Foundation Inc.’s scholarship programs, SM is investing in a future-ready generation. These initiatives are designed to equip students with the skills, networks, and confidence to thrive in an increasingly competitive global workforce.
“At APC, our mission is to shape potential into progress as we prepare our students for the global arena,” said APC president Dr. Ma. Teresita “Tata” Medado. “Graduation is not a conclusion—it marks the beginning of a meaningful journey toward leadership and impact. We inspire our students to embrace lifelong learning and to live with purpose and passion.”
Its strong focus on employability has earned APC a Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Stars system 5-star rating, specifically in the employability category. This recognition is further supported by the college’s graduatetracer program, launched by students in 2022, which tracks alumni career outcomes dating back to 2003.
Among the many success stories is Lt. (Junior Grade) Andrew Charles Nakpil who is a 2016 Electronics and Communications Engineering graduate. His unique blend of military discipline and digital communications expertise positions him as a valuable contributor in both defense and technology sectors.
In the creative industry, 2015 Multimedia Arts alumna Lea Bhel Araneta-Cabailo founded “TwinkleA Digital” in 2019. Today, she leads the agency as president and CEO, driving innovation in digital storytelling and design.
The alumni, and many others, exemplify APC’s core values of industry, integrity, and innovation—proof that with the right support, educa -
tion becomes a powerful launchpad for leadership and impact.
Impact on education, employability
THE SM group’s impact in education is also present among SM Foundation scholars, as the SMFI continues to pave the way on education transforming futures.
At a recent alumni homecoming, 925 graduates spanning 27 batches shared their career journeys, which offered a glimpse into SM’s commitment in education shaping professionals across industries.
Among the respondents, the vast majority are now gainfully employed across various fields. Additionally, 71 percent of the alumni have pursued further studies, including Master’s degrees, Doctorate degrees, secondary degrees, and other professional programs.
The SM scholars are employed across various leading industries, including education, financial services, information technology (IT), engineering/construction, retail, banking, and other key sectors.
“The scholarship empowers promising young talent while fostering a holistic student experience that prepares them to excel in their chosen careers and make meaningful contributions to society,” SM Foundation executive director for Education Programs Carmen Linda Atayde said. “Each scholar’s success reminds us of education’s long-term social impact and the ripple effect of positive change.”
Editor: Mike Policarpio
Fulbright Phils., LEB partner for scholarships to the US
THE Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF)—also known as “Fulbright Philippines”—represented by Chairperson Jessica L. Simon, and the Legal Education Board (LEB) with Chairperson Jason R. Barlis, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on May 14 at the United States Chief of Mission Residence in Makati City.
The MOU seeks to contribute to the further development of the Philippine legal education sector through global academic exchanges. It allows both organizations to collaborate to provide scholarship grants and develop training programs that will benefit the legal education sector, while directing funds for projects that boost comprehensive human-resource development initiatives to empower future Filipino leaders.
Additionally, this collaboration seeks to update teaching methods in legal education by incorporating digital technology, ensuring that students and future legal professionals remain globally competitive. Likewise, PAEF and LEB aim to develop training programs for law professors, lecturers, and administrators.
“[PAEF and LEB’s MOU represents the convergence of interest of both parties in improving legal education and scholarship via]
educational exchange,” said Executive Director Julio Amador III of PAEF. “The US has always been a favorite destination of Filipino lawyers for higher studies. Future grants that will be established will [aid Filipinos who wish to take their Master of Laws at prestigious American] schools, or support research that will contribute to further developments in Filipino legal scholarship.”
“This memorandum is more than a formal agreement—it is a bridge between local potential and global opportunity,” affirmed Barlis. “In partnership with PAEF, we are opening doors for legal educators and their institutions to pursue innovation, build global linkages, and share knowledge across borders.”
The MOU of PAEF and LEB creates a framework for both organizations to plan and develop specific details that will implement a Fulbright program dedicated to legal education. These will be formalized via a memorandum of agreement that will outline proposed programs, outcomes, timelines and budgets.
In the long view, this partnership aims to develop highly skilled and competent Filipino law lecturers who will leverage their international experience to improve the country’s justice system.
WHAT does a hundred years look like?
At Far Eastern University (FEU), it begins with a torch held high, and a nod to heritage in bold strokes of gold.
On May 13, the university officially unveiled its centennial logo and marked the start of a 1,000-day journey leading to its 100th founding anniversary in 2028.
The chosen emblem came from an open call to the Tamaraw community, which drew 101 entries from students, alumni, faculty and employees across the FEU Group of Schools. The winning design by Biology alumnus and current University Research Center staff Ramon Jefferson Melgarejo captured the heart of the university’s century-long story and its vision for the future.
Inspired by FEU’s iconic art deco architecture, the logo features the number “100” rendered with vintage flair and modern significance. An infinity symbol weaves through the double zeros that echo FEU’s enduring legacy, while a golden pathway signals a journey still unfolding. At the center burns a torch: a tribute to the university’s spirit of courage, knowledge, and service.
“A logo is more than just a design—it’s the identity of a celebration,” Melgarejo shared during the event. “This one reflects FEU’s 100year legacy of excellence, growth, and service.” FEU president Juan Miguel Montinola, alongside chair Aurelio Montinola and FEU Roosevelt trustee Atty. Gianna Montinola, led the symbolic countdown during the ceremony. The university community came together in festive fashion not
only to honor the past, but to spark excitement for what’s ahead.
“Today is both a celebration and an acknowledgment. We honor three generations—not just of family, but of employees—who have dedicated their years to [FEU, demonstrated] continuity, commitment, and a drive for continuous improvement,” said Montinola. “This moment also serves as an opportunity to pledge our dedication to the next hundred years through a long-term, consistent plan adaptable as needed to meet the challenges of the future.” In the coming months, FEU will roll out a series of milestone initiatives as part of the “1,000 Days to the 100th Year” celebration. Among them is a book series from FEU Publications that will feature stories and ideas framed around “100:” from essays to creative anthologies.
The university will also unveil the official theme for Season 89 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines or UAAP, which it will host in 2026 to coincide with its 98th founding year.
Another highlight is the launch of the search for the “2028 FEU Green and Gold Awards:” a prestigious event held every five years that honors outstanding alumni whose achievements exemplify the highest standards of distinction and integrity in their respective fields.
As the countdown begins, FEU invites all Tamaraws past and present to be part of this once-in-a-century moment. The university promises their centennial year to be more than a milestone, but a celebration of values, voices, and the enduring Tamaraw excellence that continues to light the way.
THE “Creators Co-Lab” will gather 60 young Southeast Asian content creators in Manila this month for workshops and site visits to enhance their skills and build their networks.
UNIVERSITY president Juan Miguel Montinola (left) and chair Aurelio Montinola at the centennial countdown kick-off and the logo launch
“Sonny”
INNOTECH
director Dr. Majah-Leah Ravago, Amb. Dato Malik Melvin Castelino of Malaysia, University of the Philippines chancellor Edgardo Carlo Vistan II and EDCOM 2 executive director Karol Mark Yee.
THE RABIES SCOURGE: NEARLY 100% FATAL, BUT PREVENTABLE
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
THE recent tragic death of a 31-yearold person due to rabies, nine months after being bitten by a dog, has raised serious concern on this global health threat that is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
In August 2024, Janelo Limbing was staying at the house of his brother in Cavite when he was bitten by a dog on his hand. Limbing took one of the three recommended vaccine doses but skipped the rest. He died on May 18, 2025.
The Department of Health (DOH) said that rabies is a viral infection that spread mainly through animal bites and attacks the nervous system and is fatal; recovery is rare.
Herd immunity
DURING the PilipiNAST Kapehan on Friday, Dr. Melbourne R. Talactac, one of the Outstanding Young Scientist (2020) by the National Academy of Science & Technology NAST and the Outstanding Veterinarian in Education (2020) by the Philippine Veterinary Medical Association, underscored the importance of mass vaccination of stray animals, like dogs—the main reservoir of the disease, to achieve “herd immunity” to be able to help control the spread of rabies in animal populations.
However, Talactac admitted that this is the part that most of the local government units (LGUs) are struggling with.
“The struggle here in the Philippines [of the LGUs], is that there are more stray animals; that’s why it’s hard for us to really reach the herd immunity,” he explained.
He noted that in urban areas, vaccination only reached about 50 to 60 percent
while the target for animal vaccination is at least 70 percent.
“So [it might be lower] in the rural areas, where [we can attain a high level of vaccination,” he lamented Herd immunity, he stressed, is a “real challenge” for provincial, municipal and city veterinarians.
He also urged barangay officials—who face the problem of stray dogs which can create various problems, including the risk of rabies transmission—to request for anti-rabies vaccines through the LGUs.
Global threat
RABIES is estimated to cause 59,000 human deaths annually in over 150 countries, with 95 percent of cases occurring in Africa and Asia, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
However, WHO said, due to underreporting and uncertain estimates, this number is likely a gross underestimate.
With a fatality rate of almost 100 percent in humans and animals alike, rabies remains a global threat.
It is, however, a preventable disease.
In the Philippines, a total of 1,750 patients have died due to rabies from 2020 to 2024.
The DOH said that from January 1 to March 1, a total of 55 rabies cases were logged, a 39 percent decrease in the number of cases from same period last year.
The DOH said 41 percent of the cases in 2024 involved domestic pets unvaccinated against rabies, while 56 percent involved animals with undetermined vaccine status.
Region III has the highest rabies cases at 56, followed by Region 4A with 35, and Region XII with 43.
Dr. Talactac and Dr. Leodevico L. Ilag, another resource person of the forum, called for strict enforcement of Animal Control, just like in Melbourne, Australia where he is currently based.
Dr. Ilag, an alumna and a researcher of the University of the Philippines (UP) and National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL)
member, shared that in Melbourne, a pet owner whose dog has escaped from their home and becomes a stray faces a $250 fine.
He expressed hope that the same strict enforcement will be done in the Philippines.
Viral zoonotic disease
DR . Melbourne, meanwhile, said that
dog bites to the face and head are more dangerous.
Clinically, rabies will occur in two forms: Furious rabies and paralytic rabies.
He described “furious rabies” as one where the patient is nagwawala, ayaw sa tubig, kahit makakita lang ng tubig [gets wild and out of control, and is scared of water, even simply looking at water].”
Paralytic rabies is gradual progression to paralysis and coma before death.
Talactac also urged the government to use social media to create awareness and prevent rabies transmission.
“Facebook, TikTok, lets’ target those information dissemination. Let’s focus on social media,” he said, partly in Filipino.
Signs and symptoms
Initial symptoms of rabies, according to the DOH, are similar to the flu, such as fever, headache, and general weakness.
There can also be discomfort, pain, numbness, itchiness, or a prickling sensation at the bite site.
As the disease progresses, patients may experience mental confusion, delirium, hallucinations, excessive salivation, and muscle weakness or paralysis.
Two prominent symptoms after the initial illness include hydrophobia or the fear of water, and aerophobia or the fear of air.
These happen when, after coming into contact with water like for example when drinking, or a draft of air, the patient’s muscles contract involuntarily and painfully.
Treatment
ONCE bitten by a suspected rabies-carrying animal, the wound should be washed immediately with soap and running water for at least 10 minutes, DOH said.
One should then consult a doctor im -
mediately or go to the nearest Animal Bite Treatment Center even while observing the animal that bit you.
If prescribed by a doctor, get the antirabies vaccine and complete the number of required doses.
Observe the involved animal, for example, a dog, for 14 days, and consult your physician if any of the following occurs:
n The dog becomes wild and runs aimlessly.
n The dog drools uncontrollably.
n The dog attacks any moving or non-moving object.
n The dog does not eat or drink.
n The dog dies within the observation period.
If the concerned animal cannot be observed (e.g. stray dog), and you do not know if the animal has rabies or not, it is still best to consult a physician or the nearest Animal Bite Treatment Center immediately.
Time BusinessMirror
World’s first AI-powered retinal imaging for Alzheimer’s risk detection unveiled
HONG KONG SAR- Media
OutReach Newswire – Humansa, Asia’s leading health and longevity center, is proud to announce the launch of its groundbreaking BrainSpark Program, a brain health program in collaboration with i-Cognitio Sciences, a spin-off company from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) founded by Prof. Vincent Mok. This revolutionary program incorporates the world’s first artificial intelligence (AI) model capable of detecting risk of Alzheimer’s disease using fundus photographs alone, offering a non-invasive and accessible solution to address the growing global challenge of cognitive decline and dementia.
The Humansa BrainSpark Program is a timely response to the alarming statistics in developed Asia-Pacific regions, where the mean life expectancy has reached 85 years. Yet, 1 in 3 individuals aged 85 or above may suffer from dementia, a devastating disease that robs individuals of their independence and quality of life. Research shows that 45% of dementia cases can be prevented or delayed by optimizing modifiable risk factors, making early detection and personalized interventions critical.
A revolutionary approach to brain health
Edsa busway accessibility boost: Wheelchair lifts for all stations
By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos
MANILA—All Edsa Busway stations will have a wheelchair lift to accommodate persons with disability, senior citizens, and pregnant women, Malacañang said on Thursday.
Presidential Communications Of-
fice Undersecretary and Palace Press
Officer Claire Castro said the installation of elevators was in accordance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to improve the public’s commuting experience.
press briefing.
Castro said the government did not spend money for the construction of the wheelchair lifts because the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) requested it from the contractor.
EDSA Busway stations are already operational.
Tailor-Made Lifestyle Solutions: The Humansa BrainSpark Program offers tailor-made solutions that go beyond standard care, focusing on early detection and prevention of major chronic diseases, including Alzheimer’s and dementia. By combining advanced AI technology with personalized care, Humansa provides lifestyle interventions, medical support, and preventive strategies tailored to each individual’s unique risk profile. Additionally, Humansa’s signature membership program offers a holistic anti-aging solution. This comprehensive package includes personalized recommendations on supplements, the frequency of restorative therapies, and other longevity strategies, empowering individuals to take proactive steps toward better brain health and overall well-being.
Professor Vincent Mok, Founding Director of i-Cognitio Sciences and Mok Hing Yiu Professor of Medicine of CUHK explains, “The retina is an extension of the brain, and through non-invasive fundus photography, we can detect changes in the blood vessels and nerves of the retina that are associated with Alzheimer’s disease. These changes can appear 10–15 years before symptoms develop, giving us a critical window for early intervention. This AI model can identify early microvascular changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease that may not be detected even by conventional MRI, making it a powerful tool for identifying high-risk cases in both clinical and community settings.”
Regarding the Humansa BrainSpark Program, Professor Mok adds, “This program is an innovative initiative that combines cutting-edge AI technology with personalized care approach. It encourages individuals to take proactive steps to protect their brain health, enabling early preventive treatments and lifestyle changes that can slow cognitive decline and preserve quality of life.”
THE Humansa BrainSpark Program embodies a proactive approach to brain health by offering: Comprehensive Brain Health Assessment: Powered by state-ofthe-art AI retinal imaging technology (i-Cog Brain Health) led and developed by Prof. Vincent Mok’s team, the program evaluates brain health and identifies early signals of Alzheimer’s disease. The AI model, developed and validated using nearly 13,000 fundus photographs from 648 Alzheimer’s patients and 3,240 cognitively normal subjects, demonstrated accuracies ranging from 80 percent to 92 percent among various datasets of multi-ethnicities and multi-countries. The study was led by CUHK in collaboration with Universities in Singapore (National University of Singapore, Duke-National University, Nanyang Technological University), China (Tsinghua University), US (Mayo Clinic) and UK (Queen’s University Belfast). The findings were published in the prestigious Lancet Digital Health journal in 2022.
By Luz Ding & Annabelle Droulers
CHINA’S UBTech Robotics Corp. is planning to unveil a $20,000 humanoid robot that can serve as a household companion this year, seeking to expand beyond factories. The company sees “home companion” robots as a bright spot in China partly because of the growing need for elderly care, Chief Brand Officer Michael Tam told Bloomberg News in an interview on Friday. Still, he didn’t give a timing for when the product goes on sale and said an all-purpose robot that can handle many types of household chores and look after human beings is years away as the technology isn’t ready. Hong Kong-listed UBTech, which has thus far focused on industrial customers for its humanoid robots, is eyeing a consumer market also targeted by Tesla Inc.
Lalagyan na ng wheelchair lift ang lahat ng Edsa busway station para makatulong po ito sa mga pasahero na may kapansanan o PWDs (All Edsa busway stations will be equipped with wheelchair lift to help passengers with disabilities or PWDs),” Castro said in a Palace
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and MMDA Chairperson Romando Artes on Tuesday conducted an inspection of the installed elevator at the Edsa-Philam Busway Station in Quezon City to ensure that it is operational.
A total of 18 elevators across six
The Edsa Busway currently has 23 bus stops from Monumento in Caloocan City to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) in Parañaque City.
The Edsa Busway from Monumento to the PITX was launched at the height of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 to provide seamless travel
Meet your friendly avatar robot
IN Japan there’s an experimental coffee house called DAWN Avatar Cafe where you are served by an avatar robot and you can even converse with it while having your coffee or light snacks.
Behind the robot avatar is a human person who is operating the avatar remotely from his or her own wheel chair, bed, or armchair. These persons live in surrounding areas. They are called “pilots.”
This not only provides them employment but more importantly, through these avatar robots they are able to “socialize” with people from the outside, as they bring joy and fun to guests.
What is an avatar by the way? An avatar acts as the “body” of the user. Remember “Avatar” the movie by James Cameron in which the protagonist is a paraplegic in real life but is able to do amazing physical feats through his “avatar?”
An avatar robot enables a human person to experience “being there” by controlling it through a PC or tablet wherever he is. He can see, hear, talk through a viewer and move the robot’s neck and arms with simple taps.
It turns out that the avatar robots, called OriHime were created by Ory
in
million) last year and its stock shed about 45% of its value over the past 12 months in Hong Kong. But Tam said intense rivalry helps Chinese firms become more efficient. “White-hot competition creates a lot of pressure on a single company, but
Yoshifuji – a Japanese inventor, who wanted to help people with disabilities find jobs and “to eliminate negative loneliness.” He got the idea to design remote-controlled robot avatars after his own experience of being bed-ridden with a serious medical condition for around three years. Then he met Yuta Banda who had been paralyzed and bedridden for over 20 years. They worked together to create the OriHime avatar robot and the idea of Avatar Robot Cafe was the result of their long conversations.
DAWN is an acronym for Diverse Avatar Working Network and the cafe is Ory’s Laboratory. Not only does the café’s groundbreaking approach provide a solution for those struggling with isolation at home, it also hopes to help create a society that’s more open to and accepting of people with disabilities.
Because there are real human persons who pilot the OriHime robots, they are far more pleasant to chat with, demonstrating the positive effects of integrating human touch with cuttingedge technology. Most of the OriHime bots even have iPads stationed beside them, so you get to know the person
for the whole industry, it does help pre -
piloting the robot and where he or she is logging in from.
As I was watching a vlog of this experimental cafe, it dawned on me that this has great possibilities for seniors who have limited mobility due to diverse health issues. These avatar robots can open a window to a productive life for many seniors beyond being bedridden or wheel-chair bound.
I can easily think of diverse remote work options that will make use of their experience and expertise without moving from where they are. If we can have avatars for cafes, why not avatars who can counsel depressed people, mentor young people, help students navigate through math problems, guide fellow seniors to create art pieces and so on!
In an era where old people are living longer than before, where an evergrowing number of people are becoming wheelchair bound or bedridden, this experimental initiative can reduce problems of loneliness, isolation, depression caused by ageism, rejection due to social bias against the elderly.
Will it be possible for avatar robot technology to gain mainstream presence and acceptance in our society? There are others who believe so. One of them is Honda, which is developing its own series of avatar robots. Their corporate website states that “by offering avatar robots, Honda wants to create a society where everyone, no matter how far away they are, where they are and who they are, can do what they want to do without needing to be “at the spot” in person.”
In 2018, the XPrize Foundation held a competition to create “an avatar system that can transport human presence to a remote location in real time.” The goal was to develop robotic systems that could be used by humans to interact with the world anywhere with a decent Internet connection.
Inspired by what I am learning so far, I need not fear humanity being overtaken by androids in the future. Instead, I now advocate for embracing it and make it work for humankind. Robotics technology is going beyond avatar robots. By 2050, futurists predict there will be over 20 billion robots around the world assisting human beings as Intelligent Agents, Digital Employees, Non-Human Workers, Executive Assistants, Counselors, Valets and what have you.
To me, so long as AI helps enhance the quality of human life, I’m all for it. We need to keep in mind that in developing robots, the human person should never be out of the equation. It should always be there for people, help people, improve the quality of people’s daily lives and expand people’s potential. There’s a book entitled “Compassionate AI” by Amit Ray, a spiritual master, which shows us a more enlightened way for those who are into AI. His book shows us the ways to make artificial intelligence compassionate. One reader says that it is the best practical guide for AI students, researchers, entrepreneurs, business leaders looking to get true value from the adoption of compassion in machine learning technology. One great example of Compassionate AI is the project AI for the Navigation of Blind people. He mentions also a compassionate AI that can serve the elderly people with love and care such as for balance control and fall detection of elderly people. As he says “Every elderly people need genuine love and concern. They need sensitivity, understanding and food for emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Compassionate AI aims to provide that service with genuine integrity and love.” My hope is that the robot creators of today will heed Dr. Amit Ray’s vision of building a future where compassion and AI walk hand in hand, shaping a world of harmony, empathy, and positive transformation.
THE Humansa management team and guests posed for a photo at the Humansa BrainSpark Brain Health Program event. From left to right: Dr. Sanja Tomovska, member of the Humansa International Advisory Committee; Ms. Elaine Jiang, Founding Partner of Humansa; Professor Vincent Mok Chung-tong, Mok Hing Yiu Professor of Medicine of CUHK; Mr. Vincent Wong, Chief Commercial & Applied AI Officer of Humansa; Ms. Charmaine So, Wellness Coach at Humansa; Mr. Don So, CEO of Humansa.
THE Edsa Busway. PNA PHOTO BY YANCY LIM)
Tourism&Entertainment
Tourism Editor: Edwin P. Sallan
REVOLUTIONARY ROAD
Senses satisfied in Ho Chi Minh City
HO CHI MINH , formerly known as Saigon, is the heart and hub of southern Vietnam. Named after a revolutionary figure in the Vietnamese independence movement, the city and its surrounding areas boasts of colonial architectural elements, historical landmarks, and food that will keep all your senses up and running.
And with more flights from the Philippines (Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines having just started direct routes from Cebu), it will be easier (and more affordable) to access HCM.
Coincidentally, 2025 marks the 50th year since the end of the Vietnam War and the reunification of North and South Vietnam (yes—the setting of the plot of Miss Saigon)—so this is an opportune time to retrace history, experience the sights, sounds in southern Vietnam, and savor some of the most affordable Michelin-starred gastronomic treats in this part of the world.
Where to go:
War Remnants Museum
WAR and its reminders aren’t topof-mind places to visit, but as it is the 50th anniversary of Vietnamese reunification, it’s a good idea to visit to put context to your HCM visit. Founded in 1975, it was initially called the “Exhibition House for and Puppet Crimes”— it’s a no-holds barred narrative told from the Vietnamese perspective.
Many of the images and artifacts are shocking and disturbing—there’s an actual preserved fetus, deformed from the effects of the Agent Orange nerve gas; the language strong and propagandist; and the information and historical timelines stacked together overwhelming.
A visit to this museum also shows how the Vietnam War spilled into the rest of Indo-China, especially Laos, considered the most heavily bombed country in the world (read about that here).
Independence Palace ALSO known as the Reunification Palace, this landmark has a distinct design—a combination of 1950s architectural elements with clean, modern lines and open spaces and Eastern philosophy. The takeover of this historical landmark in 1975 truly marked the fall of Saigon. It’s open to the public for as long as there are no official functions hosted by the government.
Book Street
BOOK Street is only for pedestrians with shops teeming with hardto-find publications, book exhibitions and even some art prints. It’s a quaint area where you can browse, window-shop, or sit down while sipping a drink.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
THE entire basilica is undergoing restoration and preservation until 2027, but it is still worth seeing even from the outside. It’s at the end of Book Street anyway, so you can’t miss it. French settlers began construction of the basilica in 1863, with materials sourced from artisans in France. It’s one of the world’s most beautiful cathedrals and an architectural treasure with its distinctive neo-Romanesque and Gothic design. Ironically, the restoration of the basilica is delayed by challenges in sourcing materials that mimic the originals.
Saigon Central Post Office LIKE other architectural works built during the French colonial period, this edifice has charming decorative reliefs and arched doors and windows. It’s a well-preserved landmark which gives a glimpse of the old Saigon. Inside, there are shops that sell trinkets and other tourist trappings, and yes, you can still send a letter or postcard from here.
Saigon Opera House
INITIALLY built in 1898, tourists flock to take photos of its stunning façade. The entire area is actually
very charming with French colonialera buildings and the Ho Chi Minh City Hall right across with its stunning garden.
I highly recommend going on foot and wandering around this area. While the weather is warm and humid, this area is very walkable with green spaces and tree-lined streets. There are also lots of cafes and shops, including money changers with better rates.
Tân Định Catholic Church
ITS formal name is the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The 150-yearold church was painted bright pink in the 1950s and somehow gave its Romanian architectural style and Victorian dollhouse features a different vibe.
Landmark 81
ONE of the tallest buildings in Southeast Asia, Landmark 81 is the tallest skyscraper in Vietnam and an icon in green building design. The mixeduse building has office spaces, luxury apartments and hotel and an observation deck with a skywalk and majestic city views.
Ben Thanh Market
LOCATED in the center of HCM, the 100-year-old building has a unique French-Indochinese design and thousands of stalls and vendors. Sample different types of Vietnamese coffee, or get a custom suit or silk dress made, with guaranteed delivery to you in 24 hours!
Cu Chi Tunnels
THE tunnels are outside HCM and you can go on your own or easily book a tour. However way you choose to go, this is a must-visit, and I suggest going here before you visit the War Remnants Museum and Independence Palace so that there is a better flow and understanding of the story behind these landmarks and its history.
The Cu Chi tunnels are actually an elaborate system of underground passageways and hideaways—basically an underground camp used by Vietnamese forces to outwit American soldiers (incidentally, a significant portion of US troops deployed to Vietnam trained in the Philippines given similarities in terrain and climate). The tunnels had mess halls, infirmaries and even sleeping quarters for Vietnamese troops, as well as ventilation shafts and escape hatches to evade US soldiers and repel the effects of nerve gases.
Mekong River Delta
BEYOND HCM, there are villages and communities where you can get a feel of local life.
Grab a sampan or a boat and sail along the Mekong River and allow the gentle waves and balmy breeze to relax you.
Along the river, there are family-run enterprises that produce everything from home-made whisky, bee pollen and honey, nougats, and handicrafts. The families in these
communities organize themselves to give tourists a slice-of-life experience.
What to eat and drink:
EVERY 150 meters there’s a spot to eat or drink in HCM, and it comes as no surprise that the city is home to several Michelin-starred, recommended and Bib Gourmand eateries. HCM is truly a place where it’s a must to test the limits of your taste buds.
Quan Nem THIS simple restaurant has delicious grilled meat and spring rolls—and pretty much, that’s all they serve, with people coming back repeatedly for these savory dishes.
Vietnamese coffee
VIETNAM is the world’s second-biggest producer of coffee and they have so many variations to cater to every level of caffeine fix. You can have the traditional Ca Phe with condensed milk, or try the egg yolk coffee or coconut coffee. Aside from the sidewalk coffee shops and cafes, HCM has an entire building with scores of coffee shops called the Café Apartments.
Bep Me In
LOCATED down a small street in HCM, Bep Me In translates to Mom’s Kitchen, and indeed, they serve Vietnamese family style food. You must go early to get a table—the queue gets really long especially during the evening.
Pho Viet Nam
PHO (beef broth with noodles) is common fare across Vietnam. But this place—located along Tr ầ n Qu ố c To ả n in District 3, is arguably the best. It’s basically a hole-in-the-wall, and it’s always jam-packed, so expect people waiting behind you as you enjoy your soup and noodles.
The Monkey Gallery THE founders were all born in the Year of the Monkey, hence the name of the place. But the ambience and the food are far from money business. The tasting menu was exquisite and the Dessert Bar—it’s creative and delicious with nothing too sweet. This place is Michelin recommended and relatively pricey (compared to other restaurants in Vietnam), but well worth the experience. That’s just some of what to see and do in HCM. I haven’t even gotten to the shopping—HCM has a lot of cult brands and independent labels with pieces that will spice up your wardrobe. The best part? All that touring, eating and shopping won’t break the bank. HCM is quite affordable. There are so many options for accommodation, and even going around using ride-hailing apps is cheap—I was shocked when I got my credit card bill with Grab rides for as low as P45.00 (and that was quite far too!)
So, what are you waiting for? Go on and get to Saigon!
By John Eiron R. Francisco
AS Hyrox—an international fitness racing event—continues to gain popularity across the globe, the Philippines is making its entry into the arena of “gym tourism” with the launch of its first Hyrox Training Club in Taguig City. Gold’s Gym Powered by Metcon owner Edmundo Luis R. Vega told BusinessMirror that their 750-square-meter facility at Venice Grand Canal Mall aims to capitalize on the expanding international community drawn to Hyrox events in cities like Singapore, Bangkok, Yokohama, and locations across Australia, Europe, and the United States. These races regularly attract thousands of participants from all age groups—including women, seniors, and young adults—with recent events drawing large crowds; for example, a Singapore race saw over 6,500 participants, most of them foreign nationals, alongside
nearly as many spectators.
Official Hyrox data shows that more than 90,000 athletes competed in over 40 races during the 2022/23 season, with some events hosting up to 12,000 participants and 10,000 spectators. The organization projected a sharp rise for 2023, expecting around 120,000 participants—more than double the previous year’s numbers.
By 2025, with over 80 races worldwide, Hyrox anticipates engaging over 550,000 athletes and 350,000 spectators, solidifying its status as the World Series of Fitness Racing.
“Imagine the tourism involved. And it’s our aim in the future to reproduce that here,” Vega said.
He believes that the country is wellpositioned to attract international Hyrox athletes, many of whom have the spending power to travel for competition and training. But hosting a full-scale Hyrox race locally, he noted, is still a challenge due to
venue and infrastructure requirements.
“Hyrox has a strict rider,” he explained. “It’s not just about space—it needs an air-conditioned venue close to hotels. That already rules out places like the Philippine Arena. Even though it’s big and air-conditioned, it’s too far from hotels. SM Mall of Asia Arena might be more central, but it’s a bit tight for an event with over 6,500 participants.”
Despite the logistical hurdles, Vega said the long-term goal is clear: to bring fitness-driven travelers to the Philippines and make the country a destination for high-participation events like Hyrox.
“That’s gym tourism,” he said. “And that’s what we should be aiming for.” Globally, Hyrox’s expansion shows no signs of slowing. The number of affiliated training clubs has already surpassed 5,000, representing a 260 percent year-on-year increase in 2024. Vega sees this as the perfect time for the Philippines to get on board.
is
the
do it.
Photos by Charo Logarta
BOOK Street in Ho Chi Minh
THE Cafe Apartments
THE Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is under renovation until 2027
CHI MINH City Hall
shot (from left) Anton Sietereales, Tinoy Borromeo, Edmundo
Vega, Mauro Lumba, and Justin Hernandez
(left)
(right)
A12 Saturday, May 31, 2025
Editor: Angel R. Calso
Chaos erupts at Gaza aid distribution sites as hungry Palestinians clash for food amid gunfire and tear gas
By Abdel Kareem Hana, Mohammed Jahjouh & Sarah El Deeb
The Associated Press
NUSEIRAT, Gaza Strip—Chaos erupted
again Thursday as tens of thousands of desperate Palestinians in the Gaza Strip tried to collect food from distribution sites run by a new US- and Israeli-backed foundation. Multiple witnesses reported a free-for-all of people grabbing aid, and they said Israeli troops opened fire to
control crowds.
In central Gaza, Associated Press video showed smoke bombs arching through the air around a distribution center, and gunfire was audible as an Israeli tank moved nearby.
Witnesses said it was Israeli troops who fired the projectiles to clear large crowds of Palestinians after the center ran out of supplies Thursday.
“I came to get a sack of flour…a sardine tin or anything,” said Mahmoud Ismael, a man on crutches from an earlier leg injury who said he walked for miles to get to the
center, only to leave empty-handed.
“There is no food in my house, and I can’t get food for my children,” he said.
Turmoil has plagued the aid system launched this week by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which runs three distribution centers in the territory. Israel has slated GHF to take over food distribution in Gaza despite opposition from the United Nations and most humanitarian groups.
Over the past three days, there have been reports of gunfire at GHF centers, and Gaza health officials have said at least one person has been killed and dozens wounded.
The Israeli military said it has facilitated the entry of nearly 1,000 truckloads of supplies into Gaza recently and accused the UN of failing to distribute the goods. It
claimed Hamas was responsible for the crisis by stealing aid and refusing to release the remaining hostages.
The military’s spokesman, Brig. Gen. Effei Defrin, said the army will continue “to provide for the humanitarian needs of the civilian population while taking necessary steps to ensure that the aid does not reach the hands of Hamas.”
With media not allowed to access the centers, the circumstances remain unclear. The distribution points are guarded by armed private contractors, and Israeli forces are positioned in the vicinity. On Tuesday, the Israeli military said it fired warning shots to control a crowd outside one center.
Dr. Khaled Elserr, a surgeon at Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis,
told the AP he treated two people wounded at distribution centers on Thursday -- a 17-year-old girl and a man in his 20s. Both had gunshot wounds in the chest and stomach, he said, adding that other casualties had come in from the centers but that he did not have an exact number.
In a statement Thursday, GHF said no shots had been fired at any of its distribution centers the past three days and there have been no casualties, saying reports of deaths “originated from Hamas.”
Separately on Thursday, Israeli strikes in Gaza killed at least 34 people, according to local health officials. Israel said it would establish 22 more Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank. Most of the international community views settlements as illegal and an obstacle to resolving the decades-old conflict.
Turmoil at aid distribution sites HUNGER and malnutrition have mounted among Gaza’s 2.3 million Palestinians since Israel barred entry of food, fuel, medicine and other supplies nearly three months ago, allowing a trickle of aid in only the past two weeks. GHF has opened hubs in three locations—two in the far south around the city of Rafah, and the other in central Gaza near the Netzarim corridor, a strip of territory controlled by Israeli forces. The large crowds have to walk miles to reach the locations. More than a dozen Palestinians described chaos at all three Thursday. At one of the Rafah sites near the Morag Corridor, another Israeli-held strip, one man
See “Gaza,” A15
PALESTINIANS wave to the camera as they carry boxes and bags containing food and humanitarian aid packages delivered by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a US-backed organization approved by Israel, in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, on Thursday, May 29, 2025. AP/ABDEL KAREEM HANA
Israel accepts a US proposal for a temporary Gaza ceasefire; Hamas gives a cool response
By Samy Magdy & Joseph Krauss
The Associated Press
ISRAEL has accepted a new US proposal for a temporary ceasefire with Hamas, the White House said Thursday.
US President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism earlier this week about brokering an agreement to halt the Israel-Hamas war and return more of the hostages captured in the attack that ignited it.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that Israel “backed and supported” the new proposal.
Hamas officials gave the Israeliapproved draft a cool response, but said they wanted to study the proposal more closely before giving a formal answer.
“The Zionist response, in essence, means perpetuating the occupation and continuing the killing and famine,” Bassem Naim, a top Hamas official, told The Associated Press. He said it “does not respond to any of our people’s demands, foremost among which is stopping the war and famine.”
Nonetheless, he said the group would study the proposal “with all national responsibility.”
Hamas had previously said it had agreed with Witkoff on a “general framework” of an agreement that would lead to a lasting ceasefire, a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, an influx of aid, and a transfer of power from the militant group to a politically independent committee of Palestinians.
Here’s what’s known about the emerging negotiations that aim to bring about an extended truce in the war in exchange for hostages that remain in captivity:
What do Israel and Hamas want?
ISRAELI Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has refused to end the war until all the hostages are released and Hamas is either destroyed or disarmed and sent into exile. He has said Israel will control Gaza indefinitely and facilitate what he refers to as the voluntary emigration of much of its population.
Palestinians and most of the international
community have rejected plans to resettle Gaza’s population, a move experts say would likely violate international law.
Hamas has said it will only release the remaining hostages—its only bargaining chip—in return for more Palestinian prisoners, a lasting ceasefire and a full Israeli withdrawal. It has offered to give up power to a committee of politically independent Palestinians that could oversee reconstruction.
Hamas is still holding 58 hostages. Around a third are believed to be alive, though many fear they are in grave danger the longer the war goes on. Thousands of Palestinians have been killed since Israel renewed its airstrikes and ground operations after ending a ceasefire in March.
The dispute over whether there should be a temporary ceasefire to release more hostages—as Israel has called for—or a permanent one—as Hamas wants—has bedeviled talks brokered by the US, Egypt and Qatar for more than a year and a half, and there’s no indication it has been resolved.
What is the latest ceasefire proposal?
WITKOFF has not publicized his latest proposal, but a Hamas official and an Egyptian official independently confirmed some of the details. They spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive talks.
They say it calls for a 60-day pause in fighting, guarantees of serious negotiations leading to a long-term truce and assurances that Israel will not resume hostilities after the release of hostages, as it did in March. Israeli forces would pull back to the positions they held during the ceasefire Israel ended that month.
Hamas would release 10 living hostages and a number of bodies during the 60-day pause in exchange for more than 1,100 Palestinians imprisoned by Israel, including 100 serving long sentences after being convicted of deadly attacks.
Each day, hundreds of trucks carrying food and humanitarian aid would be allowed to enter Gaza, where experts say a nearly three-month Israeli blockade—
See “Hamas,” A15
Macron will kick off Singapore security conference with Hegseth in attendance
By David Rising & Tara Copp The Associated Press
SINGAPORE—French President Emmanuel Macron and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth are among the world leaders, diplomats and top defense officials in Singapore this weekend for a security forum that will focus on China’s growing assertiveness, the global impact of Russia’s war on Ukraine and the flareup of conflicts in Asia.
Macron opens the conference with a keynote address Friday night that is expected to touch on all of those issues, as well as the pressure the hefty tariffs announced by President Donald Trump’s administration is putting on Asian allies.
It’s Hegseth’s first time to the Shangri-La dialogue, hosted by the International Institute for Security Studies, which is taking place against the backdrop of heightened rhetoric between Beijing and Washington due to the Trump administration’s threat of triple digit tariffs on China, and some uncertainty in the region over how committed the US is to the defense of Taiwan, which also faces possible 32% American tariffs.
China claims the self-governing democracy as its own, and Chinese President Xi Jinping has not ruled out taking it by force. China sends military aircraft, ships and spy balloons near Taiwan as part of a campaign of daily harassment, and currently has an aircraft carrier in
the waters southeast of the island.
Hegseth told reporters before he boarded his plane for Singapore that Washington’s policies were meant to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.
“We seek no conflict with anybody, including the Communist Chinese,” he said. “We will stay strong for our interests. And that’s a big part of what this trip is all about.”
China, which usually sends its defense minister to the ShangriLa forum, appears to be sending a lower-level delegation this year but has not said why.
Hegseth’s trip to Singapore is his second to the region since becoming defense secretary, following a March visit to the Philippines, which has seen escalating confrontations with China over competing territorial claims in the South China Sea.
That trip, which also included a stop in Japan, brought a degree of relief over growing concerns from the Philippines and others in the region about US support
from a president who has taken more of a transactional approach to diplomacy and seems wary of foreign engagements.
The US has been pursuing a “free and open Indo-Pacific” policy, which includes regularly sailing warships through the Taiwan Strait and in the South China Sea, which is claimed almost in its entirety by China.
The European Union has adopted a more economics-driven approach, but several European nations have also regularly taken part in the freedom of navigation exercises, including France which sent a carrier strike group on a five-month mission through the Indo-Pacific that concluded in April.
In its published Indo-Pacific strategy, France has underscored the need to “preserve a rules-based international order” in the face of “China’s increasing power and territorial claims” and its global competition with the United States.
France’s own ties to the IndoPacific are strong, with more than 1.6 million of its citizens living in the region in French overseas territories.
Following a meeting Friday with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Macron told reporters there was room in the region for more than just the two superpowers.
“We are neither China nor the US, we don’t want to depend on any of them,” he said. “We want to cooperate with both as far as we can, and we can cooperate for growth and prosperity and stability for our people and the world order, and I think this is exactly the same view of a lot of countries and a lot of people of this region.”
Wong underscored Macron’s point, saying that Singapore and
the greater region were not looking for exclusive arrangements with any single power.
“We want to embrace comprehensive engagement with all parties and embrace win-win arrangements rather than zero-sum competition,” he said.
In his speech later, Macron is expected also to stress that the war in Ukraine is having a worldwide impact and that Russia seeks to destabilize Asia, the French president’s office said.
While democracies from the region, including Australia, South Korea and Japan, have been aiding Ukraine, China has been growingly supportive of Russia and North Korea has sent troops to fight for Moscow.
The conference comes as civil war continues to rage in Myanmar, creating a massive humanitarian crisis that has only been compounded by the effects of a devastating earthquake that hit in March.
It also follows the outbreak of violence this week on the ThaiCambodian border, in which a Cambodian soldier was killed in a brief exchange of fire between the two sides. Thailand and Cambodia have a long history of land disputes, though Thailand said after the short skirmish that the situation had been resolved.
Of greater concern, nucleararmed neighbors India and Pakistan came to the brink of war earlier this month in their most serious military confrontation in decades. The two armies exchanged gunfire, artillery strikes, missiles and drones that killed dozens of people, and Pakistan shot down several Indian planes before a truce was declared.
Sylvie Corbet in Paris contributed to this report.
Federal appeals court grants Trump temporary reprieve on tariff ruling amid ongoing legal battle
ABy Josh Wingrove & Jennifer A. Dlouhy
FEDERAL appeals court
offered President Donald Trump a temporary reprieve from a ruling threatening to throw out the bulk of his sweeping tariff agenda, giving at least some hope to a White House now facing substantial new restrictions on its effort to rewrite the global trading order.
The administration celebrated the order from the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit as validating its vow to aggressively challenge a ruling issued Wednesday night by the Court of International Trade blocking sweeping parts of Trump’s tariffs over his use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA.
White House officials also stressed Trump has options to pursue similar tariffs through other authorities if appeals ultimately fall short, even as they planned to continue defending the legality of the IEEPA tariffs to the US Supreme Court.
However, for a president eager to use trade policy to quickly reshape global commerce, other options would be more complicated, and bind the threats he’s able to wield in the negotiation process with other world leaders. Some alternative US tariff options are laborious to use and would take months to execute, while others are capped in scope and duration.
Trump hailed the appeals court ruling in a social media post on Thursday night, while calling the original decision “so wrong and so political!” He claimed that seeking congressional approval for tariffs would hinder his trade agenda and “completely destroy Presidential Power.”
“Hopefully, the Supreme Court will reverse this horrible, Country threatening decision, QUICKLY and DECISIVELY,” Trump said in the post.
Despite the temporary stay, the possibility that the appeals court could ultimately back the original ruling and block Trump’s tariff policy hung heavy over the White House. Separately, a second federal judge declared a number of Trump’s levies enacted using emergency powers unlawful, but limited his decision to the family-owned business that sued and delayed the order from taking effect for 14 days to allow the Justice Department time to appeal.
“America cannot function if President Trump—or any other president, for that matter—has their sensitive diplomatic or trade negotiations railroaded by activist judges,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Thursday. “Ultimately, the Supreme Court must put an end to this for the sake of our Constitution and our country.”
The original court ruling would have provided the administration just 10 days to unwind the levies. But the new order laid out a briefing schedule that runs through June 9 to decide on the request for
a longer-term stay. If granted—or if a subsequent appeal to the Supreme Court was granted—the tariffs could remain in place for months.
For all of the confidence on Trump’s team, Wednesday’s initial court ruling marked one of the biggest setbacks of the president’s second term. Trump campaigned on using tariffs to combat what he calls other nation’s unfair treatment of the US, and the emergency law gave him the fastest avenue to deliver on his pledge.
The ruling would reduce the effective US tariff rate to below 6% from a high of almost 27% last month, according to Bloomberg Economics calculations, an astronomical level that risked stagflation for the US.
The legal fight also threatens to inject even more uncertainty into a world economy already rattled by Trump’s ever-changing posture on import taxes. It may sap Trump’s leverage as his team negotiates with numerous trading partners seeking tariff relief.
The trade court decision on Wednesday blocked tariffs on Mexico, Canada, China as well as a flat import tax on almost every US trading partner. Trump invoked the IEEPA on the grounds that fentanyl and trade deficits are each emergencies necessitating the broad use of executive power. The court ruled he went too far.
The White House on Thursday said it is looking at other options, but advisers acknowledged the potential for them being more timeconsuming.
“There are different approaches that would take a couple of months to put these in place and using procedures that have been approved in the past or approved in the last administration, but we’re not planning to pursue those right now,” National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett said on Fox Business.
Yet amid mounting concern about the vulnerability of Trump’s IEEPA-based tariffs, the admin -
istration has already embraced separate legal authorities to pursue other levies.
The Trump administration has invoked Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act to set the stage for sweeping levies that could touch everything from smartphones to jet engines.
Since Trump took office in January, the Commerce Department has already enacted Section 232 tariffs on steel, aluminum, vehicles and auto parts, and launched investigations on trucks, copper, lumber, semiconductors, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals and aircraft.
Those tariffs are seen as less legally vulnerable than Trump’s adhoc nation-by-nation approach, but take months to enact. The probes typically produce findings within 270 days, but administration officials have stressed they can go faster.
“I can assure you, American people, that the Trump tariff agenda is alive, well, healthy, and will be implemented to protect you, to save your jobs and your factories,” trade adviser Peter Navarro told reporters on Thursday.
Navarro said that US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer would address other avenues soon.
“Any trade lawyer knows it’s just a number of different options we
can take,” Navarro said.
A shift in strategy could be time-consuming, dragging out both the uncertainty of Trump’s tariff policy and the timeline for him to see some domestic political impact.
Ticking clock
“THE idea that Trump is going to turn to plan B and do tariffs by other means has problems,” said James Lucier, managing director at the research firm Capital Alpha Partners. “Yes, he will do it. But he is running out of time to do tariffs and get results before the midterm elections.”
Even so, taking the time to build an ironclad case for tariffs using other legal authorities is key to ensuring they survive court scrutiny and, perhaps, future elections, analysts said.
“If Trump jumps through the hoops and does all the paper for Section 232 tariffs, then he may have tariffs that are legally sustainable,” Lucier said. “If he wants to complete a sloppy pro forma process in six weeks, the same deep-pocketed anti—tariff folks who came after him on IEEPA will come after him on 232.”
The trade court’s ruling also nodded to Section 122 powers—which Trump could use to impose tariffs on nations of as
much as 15%, but only for about five months—as another avenue. Navarro conceded the administration had avoided doing so originally because of restrictions on how long those tariffs could remain in place.
“Well, Section 122, only gives you 150 days. So there’s your answer right there,” he told Bloomberg Television.
Trump has also used authorities under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974 to enact previous tariffs on China. Whether he will now try to enact more duties through that authority, including on China, is unclear.
Section 301 empowers presidents to take a range of actions— not just tariffs—to address unfair policies seen as restricting US commerce. Affected industries have previously sought Section 301 investigations on shipbuilding, solar and other imports, but a president can initiate those probes on his or her own. Investigations on auto and steel tariffs dating back to his first four years in office allowed Trump to move more quickly on those levies than on other sectors where he was starting from scratch.
One other option is that Trump could go to Congress for tariff approvals. However such a move would at minimum delay tariffs, and could also risk some of his levies on allied nations failing to gain approval in a closelydivided House and Senate. Such a move would also take valuable floor time that could be used on other priorities, such as approving Trump’s judicial and other nominees, or enacting legislation on tax cuts.
“In other words, hundreds of politicians would sit around D.C. for weeks, and even months, trying to come to a conclusion as to what to charge other Countries that are treating us unfairly,” Trump said. With assistance from Maeva Cousin (Economist), Meghashyam Mali, Laura Curtis, Tom Orlik (Economist), Annmarie Hordern, Jonathan Ferro, Erik Larson, Greg Stohr, Akayla Gardner and Rana Sajedi (Economist) / Bloomberg
Global rally for stocks loses steam amid questions following court ruling on Trump’s sweeping tariffs
By Stan Choe AP Business Writer
and the United States amid uncertainty about what will happen next after a US court blocked many of President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs. The S&P 500 rose 0.4% after giving up
more than half of an early gain. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 117 points, or 0.3%, and the Nasdaq composite rose 0.4%.
It’s a downshift after stocks initially leaped nearly 2% in Tokyo and Seoul, where markets had the first chance to react to the ruling late Wednesday by the US Court of International Trade. The court said that the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act that Trump cited for ordering massive
increases in taxes on imports from around the world does not authorize the use of tariffs.
The ruling at first raised hopes in financial markets that a hamstrung Trump would not be able to drive the economy into a recession with his tariffs, which had threatened to grind down on global trade and raise prices for consumers already sick of high inflation. Trump has said he wants to bring manufacturing jobs back to the United States, and he warned the
process could cause some pain for US households.
But the tariffs remain in place for now while the White House appeals the ruling, and the ultimate outcome is still uncertain.
The court’s ruling also affects only some of Trump’s tariffs, not those on foreign steel, aluminum and autos, which were invoked under a different law.
Trump “is still able to impose significant and wide-ranging tariffs over the longerterm through other means,” according
to Ulrike Hoffmann-Burchardi, chief investment officer of global equities at UBS Global Wealth Management. Such uncertainty helped dampen the excitement in financial markets as trading headed through Europe into the United States, where the moves were much more modest than in Asia. The US court’s move was nevertheless seen as a positive for financial markets.
See “Tariffs,” A15
PRESIDENT Donald Trump, left, and Elon Musk depart the White House to board Marine One en route to New Jersey, March 21, 2025, in Washington. AP/MARK SCHIEFELBEIN
www.businessmirror.com.ph
The World
Institute of Peace reclaims headquarters after court win over Elon Musk’s cost-cutting team
By Gary Fields The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—The US Institute of Peace retook control of its headquarters Wednesday, two days after a federal judge said the firing of its board and employees by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency was illegal.
The institute’s acting president, George Moose, entered the organization’s headquarters with private security and the institute’s outside attorney for the first time since being escorted off the premises during the DOGE takeover. Moose and most of the institute’s board were fired in March, part of the mass slashing of the federal workforce spearheaded by Musk.
The institute and many of its board members filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration soon after, seeking to prevent their removal and stop DOGE from taking over its operations. US District Court Judge Beryl A. Howell’s opinion on Monday reversed DOGE’s actions.
Speaking after a short examination of the headquarters, Moose said all appeared to be in order.
“We just did a quick walk-through— externally, visibly, things look to be in pretty good shape,” he said. “I didn’t see anything, any destruction, if you will, no damage that I can see that is visible.”
Moose, a former ambassador and career member of the US Foreign Service, said a team of employees from human resources, technology and finance would be in the building Thursday getting the nonprofit ready to welcome back its workforce. He expected to bring back all the staff who want to return.
In an e-mail Wednesday, White House
“The bar is raised for President Trump to resurrect his tariffs,” said Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management.
“Markets are pricing that this is a better type of uncertainty than what we’ve had since Liberation Day,” which is what Trump called his April 2 announcement of a worldwide set of sweeping tariffs.
The S&P 500 has pulled within 3.8% of its all-time high after dropping roughly 20% below at one point last month. On Wall Street, tech stocks led the way after Nvidia once again topped analysts’ expectations for profit and revenue in the latest quarter.
The chip company has grown into one of the US market’s largest and most influential stocks because of the frenzy around artificial-intelligence technology, and its 3.2% rise was the strongest force by far lifting the S&P 500.
C3.ai, an AI application software company, jumped 20.8% after it reported stronger profit than analysts expected for its latest quarter. It also said the US Air Force increased the maximum possible value for its contract by $350 million to $450 million. The company’s revenue last quarter totaled $108.7 million.
E.l.f. Beauty was another big winner and rose 23.6% after the cosmetics company delivered a stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected.
It also said it agreed to buy Hailey Bieber’s Rhode skincare brand in a $1 billion deal. Rhode had $212 million in net sales in the 12 months through March.
Trump-Xi truce under threat after US targets Chinese students, tech
JUSTspokeswoman Anna Kelly did not comment on workers returning to the building, but signaled that the administration may challenge the decision.
“President Trump is right to reduce failed, useless entities like USIP to their statutory minimum, and the rogue judge’s attempt to impede on the separation of powers will not be the last say on the matter,” she said.
The administration filed a motion of appeal Wednesday evening and requested a stay of the judge’s ruling while that appeal is considered, arguing in part that Howell “erred” in concluding that the institution’s functions were not executive functions.
Agencies across the federal government have been slashed or dismantled by Musk’s DOGE team. Wednesday’s low-key scene at the institute’s headquarters marked a rare moment when a DOGE-targeted agency or organization has been able to begin reestablishing itself.
The judge’s ruling said the Trump administration did not have authority to unilaterally dismantle the institute, which was established by Congress in 1984 as an independent organization that would promote peace and seek to end conflicts around the world. It was operating in more than two dozen conflict zones at the time Musk’s team took it over and shut it down.
The saga began when Trump issued an executive order in February that targeted the institute and three other agencies for closure in an effort to deliver on campaign promises to shrink the size of the government. The first attempt by DOGE to take over the headquarters led to a standoff. Members of Musk’s DOGE group returned days later with the FBI and District of Columbia Metropolitan Police to help them gain entry.
contributed. Tariffs.
Bieber, a model and the wife of singer
Justin Bieber, will be Rhode’s chief creative officer and head of innovation and also a strategic advisor to the combined companies. They helped offset a drop for Best Buy, which fell 7.3% even though it reported a stronger profit than expected. Its revenue fell short of analysts’ forecasts. The electronics retailer also cut its forecasted ranges for revenue and profit over the full year on the assumption that “tariffs stay at the current levels for the rest of the year, and there is no material change in consumer behavior from the trends we have seen in recent quarters,” Chief Financial Officer Matt Bilunas said. Many companies have recently said that the uncertainty caused by tariffs is making it too difficult to offer any financial forecasts for the upcoming year.
All told, the S&P 500 rose 23.62 points to 5,912.17. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 117.03 to 42,215.73, and the Nasdaq composite gained 74.93 to 19,175.87. In the bond market, Treasury yields eased following some mixed reports on the economy. One said that the US economy likely shrunk by less in the first three months of the year than earlier estimated. Another said slightly more US workers applied for unemployment benefits last week than economists expected.
The yield on the 10-year Treasury fell to 4.43% from 4.47% late Wednesday. In stock markets abroad, Japan’s Nikkei 225 jumped 1.9% to help lead Asian markets higher, while stocks rose 1.4% in Hong Kong and 0.7% in Shanghai. South Korea’s Kospi rallied 1.9% after the Bank of Korea cut its key interest rate to ease pressure on the economy.
By Bloomberg News
weeks after US President Donald Trump declared a “total reset” with China following a trade truce in Geneva, tensions are rising again between the world’s biggest economies.
Trump’s administration on Wednesday announced it would start revoking Chinese student visas, while also introducing new restrictions on the sales of chip design software and reportedly some jet engine parts to China. That came shortly after it sought to block Huawei Technologies Co. from selling advanced AI chips anywhere in the world, prompting an angry rebuke from Beijing. “Geneva was positive because both sides are officially talking to each other,” said Alfredo Montufar-Helu, senior adviser to the China Center at the Conference Board. “But the negotiations didn’t really deal with the core issues that are driving competition between the two sides. Chief of them all— technological dominance.”
While US and Chinese negotiators brought down tariffs from eye-watering levels for 90-days, they still need to hammer out a deal to rebalance trade—that took years in Trump’s first term. Both sides are also in disagreement over Beijing’s role in the illegal fentanyl trade, as well as rare earths and chip controls.
In a sign any larger deal is a way off, Trump has yet to speak with his Chinese counterpart since returning to office, despite suggesting several times such a call was imminent. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said negotiations with China had stalled but he believed more would be held in the next few weeks. He added that a
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told the AP he and his cousin arrived at 5:30 a.m., and found thousands of people massed outside, waiting to be let in. When it was opened, the crowd flowed into an outdoor area ringed by barbed wire and earth berms, where pallets of food boxes had been left.
Armed contractors stood on the berms watching, and beyond them Israeli troops and tanks were visible, said the 41-year-old man, who spoke on condition he be identified only by his first name, Shehada, for fear of reprisals. The crowd descended on the food boxes, and pushing and shoving got out of control, he said.
Shehada said the contractors pulled back and Israeli troops shot at people’s feet. His cousin was wounded in the left foot, he said. “The gunfire was very intense,” he said. “The sand was jumping all around us.” At the other Rafah site, several people
Hamas. . .
Continued from A13
slightly eased in recent days—has pushed the population to the brink of famine.
Why is it so hard to end the war?
HAMAS-LED militants stormed southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting 251 hostages. More than half the hostages have been released in ceasefires or other deals.
Israel has rescued eight and recovered dozens of bodies.
Israel’s ensuing military campaign has
call between Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping will happen at some point.
The crackdown on Chinese students—the second largest international group in the US—was unveiled by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who before taking office was twice sanctioned by Beijing. That dispelled any notion China hawks within the Trump administration are losing influence, after trade officials in Switzerland showed a preference for dealmaking with Beijing.
China’s Foreign Ministry called the visa policy “discriminatory” at a regular briefing in Beijing on Thursday, with spokeswoman Mao Ning saying it would “only further undermine” America’s global reputation. That relatively restrained response, along with the fact officials didn’t signal any retaliation, suggests Beijing is trying to avoid sending ties into another tailspin.
Still, the decision to put Chinese students under fresh scrutiny highlights the deep suspicion underpinning bilateral ties, with Republicans and Democrats alike now viewing China as a major threat to American security. For its part, Beijing has launched an anti-spying campaign that casts a wide net of suspicion on foreigners, particularly from the US.
John Moolenaar, chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, denied the US actions were designed to target ordinary people in the
told AP of a similar scene of pallets of food boxes left on the ground for the crowds to take whatever they could with no control by staff. Mohammad Abu-Elinin, said “gangs” carried off cartloads of flour bags and multiple aid boxes.
Samira Z’urob said by the time she arrived at 6.a.m, “the thieves had stolen people’s aid.” When she begged, one person gave her a bag of pasta and a can of beans. “I said, Thank God, and took it to my children,” she said. “I haven’t had flour for more than a week.”
Another woman, Heba Joda, said people tore down metal fences and took wooden pallets. When the food boxes ran out, staff told people to leave, then fired sound grenades to disperse them, she said.
As people fled through a nearby roundabout outside the center, Israeli troops fired gunshots, causing a panic, she said. Abu-Elinin said he saw one man wounded by shrapnel.
At the center in central Gaza, witnesses told the AP that Israeli troops fired tear gas
killed over 54,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were civilians or combatants.
The offensive has destroyed vast areas of Gaza and displaced around 90% of its population of roughly 2 million Palestinians, with hundreds of thousands living in squalid tent camps and unused schools.
Hamas has been vastly depleted militarily and lost nearly all of its top leaders in Gaza. It most likely fears that releasing all the hostages without securing a permanent ceasefire would allow Israel to launch an even more devastating campaign
Asian country. “It’s the aggression of the Chinese Communist Party that we’re pushing back on,” he told Bloomberg Television.
Moolenaar represents US lawmakers who are skeptical of China’s influence in the US, including on campuses across the country. He accused Beijing of making Chinese students do its bidding and earlier this month co-signed a letter to Harvard University demanding information on its China links.
“The end goal is to have a relationship with China that acknowledges the reality that their government is moving in a very different direction than they promised,” he added.
Moolenaar got what he wanted when Trump moved to block Harvard from enrolling international students over claims the school’s leadership had co-ordinated with the Communist Party. US lawmakers allege the university trained members of a company sanctioned for alleged human-rights abuses.
“This will only stoke misunderstanding, mistrust and even hatred between two societies,” said Wu Xinbo, director at Fudan University’s Center for American Studies in Shanghai. “I’m afraid the Trump administration will come up with more crazy ideas and actions hurting China-US relations.”
Trump’s approach contrasts sharply with Xi, who has touted people-to-people exchanges as the
and smoke grenades to disperse the crowds when aid ran out. AP video showed crowds of people returning from the site, some with carts full of boxes and many with nothing.
Aisha Na’na said all she managed to grab were some sticks to use as firewood. “We had come to get food for our children, but it was all in vain—we returned with nothing,” she said.
Israel says the GHF system will replace the massive aid operation that the UN and other aid groups have carried out throughout the war. It says the new mechanism is necessary, accusing Hamas of siphoning off large amounts of aid. The UN denies that significant diversion takes place.
In its statement Thursday, GHF said it has distributed more than 32,200 boxes of food since Monday. It says each box, which contains basics like sugar, lentils, pasta and rice, can make 58 meals. It said it will scale up to start operations at a fourth center and will build additional hubs in the weeks ahead.
to ultimately destroy the group. Israel fears that a lasting ceasefire and withdrawal now would leave Hamas with significant influence in Gaza, even if it surrenders formal power. With time, Hamas might be able to rebuild its military might and eventually launch more Oct. 7-style attacks.
Netanyahu also faces political constraints: His far-right coalition partners have threatened to bring down his government if he ends the war too soon. That would leave him more vulnerable to prosecution on longstanding corruption charges and to investigations into the failures surrounding the October 7 attack.
foundation of healthy US ties. The Chinese leader in 2023 pledged to bring 50,000 young Americans to China over five years to stabilize relations. Some 16,000 American youths participated last year, according to Jing Quan, a minister at the Chinese embassy in the US.
While it’s unclear how the latest policy will be enforced, expelling Chinese students from the US threatens to reignite a flashpoint in ties from Trump’s first term. Back then, the US revoked over 1,000 visas of Chinese pupils and scholars, alleging they were stealing US technology and intellectual property for China’s military. In China, the hardening US stance was met with disbelief and resentment on social media.
“I can’t believe Trump has shown us in our life time how quickly the US empire is declining,” one user wrote on China’s X-like Weibo platform.
Creating a hostile environment for overseas students could push talent back toward China. That aligns with Beijing’s ambition to bolster domestic innovation, as Xi turns high-tech manufacturing into a key growth driver for the economy.
Chinese students have made critical contributions to America’s technological success and scientific leadership, said Jessica Chen Weiss, the David M. Lampton professor of China studies at Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies in Washington.
During the McCarthy era of intense US suspicion, leading rocket scientist Qian Xuesen was prevented from continuing his scientific career in the country, despite having co-founded NASA’s jet propulsion laboratory at Caltech. That was to Beijing’s benefit, Weiss said: “He returned to China, where he helped develop China’s ballistic missile program.” With assistance from Haslinda Amin, Qianwei Zhang, Allen Wan, Minmin Low and Lucille Liu/Bloomberg
The UN and other aid groups have refused to participate in the mechanism, saying it violates humanitarian principles. They say it allows Israel to use food as a weapon, forcing people to move to the hubs, potentially emptying large swaths of Gaza. They also say it cannot meet the massive needs of the population. Israel has allowed in some trucks of aid for the UN to distribute, but the UN has struggled to deliver the material amid looting and Israeli military restrictions. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters Thursday that Israeli authorities hadn’t given permission for UN trucks to move to the border to retrieve the arriving supplies for the previous three days.
Jahjouh reported from Khan Younis, Gaza Strip, El Deeb from Beirut. AP correspondents Samy Magdy and Fatma Khaled in Cairo, and Julia Frankel and Natalie Melzer in Jerusalem, contributed to this report.
A broader resolution to the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict appears more distant than ever.
The Palestinians are weak and divided, and Israel’s current government—the most nationalist and religious in its history—is opposed to Palestinian demands for a state in Gaza, the West Bank and east Jerusalem, territories Israel occupied in the 1967 Mideast war. The last serious peace talks broke down more than 15
MARCO RUBIO FRANCIS CHUNG/POLITICO/BLOOMBERG
NY stays alive: ‘Knicks in 7?’
NEW YORK—Karl-
Anthony Towns was uncertain to play
Thursday because of a bruised left knee, according to the New York Knicks’ injury report. Given the situation the Knicks faced, Towns knew all along he was playing.
“I looked at the game and it said Game 5. Do or die. That was pretty much all I needed to see,” Towns sai.
The All-Star delivered 24 points and 13 rebounds, helping the Knicks beat the Indiana Pacers, 111-94, in Game 5 to stay alive in the Eastern Conference finals.
Towns was hurt near the end of the Pacers’ 130-121 victory on Tuesday that gave them a 3-1 lead in the series. He was able to finish the game, but he was noticeably hobbling after the knee-toknee collision and the Knicks had listed him as questionable to play Thursday.
Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said earlier Thursday that Towns’s availability would be a game-time decision.
Towns had carried the Knicks to their lone win in the series by scoring 20 of his 24 points in the fourth quarter of Game 3. On Thursday, he followed Jalen Brunson’s strong start by scoring 12 points while playing the entire second quarter.
The Knicks stuck with their starting lineup that debuted in Game 3, with Towns moved to forward and Mitchell Robinson starting at center. Robinson replaced forward Josh Hart in the first unit, with the Knicks hoping his rebounding and defense would help slow down the Pacers.
The Knicks hadn’t really started well in either of the first two games with the big lineup and gave up 43 points in the first quarter of Game 4. But Indiana barely surpassed that in the first half Thursday, when New York led 56-45, as the Knicks finally avoided the early holes they’ve been falling into.
“I mean, we knew we had to do something,” Brunson said. “I mean, we had to. It’s win or go home.”
Pole vault field targets EJ in Asian championships
HERE’S no doubt Ernest John
T“EJ” Obiena’s the target of everybody else at the 26th Asian Athletics Championships men’s pole vault competition on Saturday in Gumi, South Korea.
The Asian champion and record holder—also unbeatable in the Asian Games—Obiena said complacency won’t be in his bag when he competes against 15 challengers in the continent.
“There are many fresh faces who will be competing this time, a lot of new talents, and I believe all of them are aiming for the gold, so I must be ready,” the 29-year-old three-time Southeast Asian Games champion told BusinessMirror on Friday.
Obiena is unbeatable with his Asian outdoor record of 6.0 meters and indoor standard of 5.93 meters.
In the 2023 Asian championships, Obiena won gold with plenty to spare at 5.91m with silver medalist Hussain Asim Al-Hizam of Saudi Arabia clearing 5.56m and bronze medalist Huang Bokai of China making 5.51m—both will be back to challenge him in Gumi. Ranked No. 4 in the world, he said that this year competition would be challenging.
“The venue is a little bit windy so I must step up, I must show up,” he said. The Philippines’ Hokett de los Santos will also see action alongside Obiena as well as Japan’s Tomoya Karasawa. Also competing for the Philippines—which bagged a second gold in Bangkok besides Obiena through Robin Lauren Brown in women’s 400m hurdles—are William Morrison (shotput), Leonard Grospe (high jump) and Daniella Daytana (discus throw). lost in their respective events on Thursday. Morrison finished seventh at 18.55m, Grospe fell to 11th at 2.10m and Daytana was ninth at 44.03m in Friday’s events. Brown defended her gold medal in the women’s 400m as well as Paris Paris Olympian Lauren Hoffman on Friday. Josef Ramos
Robinson finished with six points, six rebounds and two blocks.
From Jalen Brunson’s sizzling start to the “Knicks in 7! Knicks in 7!” chants at the finish, this was New York’s night.
Maybe it can still be the Knicks’ series.
The Knicks won on their home floor for the first time in the series and prevented the Pacers from earning the second NBA Finals trip in franchise history.
Indiana will try again Saturday night at home.
“It’s a testament to our team answering the call,” Towns said.
New York extended its first trip to the conference finals since 2000 and kept alive hopes of becoming the 14th team to overcome a 3-1 deficit to win a series. No team has won a conference finals series after dropping the first two games at home.
Two nights after giving up 43 points in the first quarter, the Knicks held the Pacers to just 45 in the first half and limited Tyrese Haliburton, who had 32 points, 15 assists and 12 rebounds Tuesday, to just eight points and six assists.
Brunson, outplayed by his point guard counterpart Tuesday, rebounded with his franchise-record 21st postseason game of 30 or more points with the Knicks.
“Our backs were against the wall. So, I mean, we’ve got to give it everything we got,” Brunson said.
Bennedict Mathurin scored 23 points off the bench for the Pacers, who had won six straight road games. Indiana shot just 40.5% from the field in by far its lowestscoring game of the postseason.
Garra, like Sia, bags 7 golds; NCR runaway champ
SOPHIA ROSE GARRA clinched a seventh gold medal to match Titus Sia’s production for the National Capital Region (NCR) which ran away with the overall championship of the 65th Palarong Pambansa that came to a close under a drizzle on Friday at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium in Laoag City. Garra, 12, capped a 7-of-7 sweep of her swimming events by claiming the gold medal in the girls’ elementary 50 meters freestyle in 28.99 seconds, making both her school La Salle-Araneta in Malabon and powerhouse NCR squad proud in the event hosted by Governor
Matthew Manotoc’s Ilocos Norte. That gold from Garra was NCR’s 100th in the weeklong Palaro and with 65 silvers and 44 bronzes, the delegation from the big cities clinched an 18th straight overall championship. A far second was CALABARZON with a 39-61-55 gold-silver-bronze haul, followed by Western Visayas with 36-44-44.
Garra, like Sia, was big in the Palaro with her conquest of the 200m freestyle, 100m backstroke, 200m individual medley, 100m freestyle, 4x50 medley relay, 4x50 freestyle relay and the 50m freestyle.
Sia’s golds were in the boys’ 200m freestyle, 100m backstroke, 100m freestyle, 400m freestyle, 50m backstroke, 4x50 medley relay and 4x50 freestyle relay.
Patricia Mae Santor captured five and Ryian Zach Danzel Belen with four to add to the 23 gold medals NCR scooped from the pool.
The other multi-gold winners were Davao Region’s Bhenz Rudolf Owen Semilla with six in dancesport, NCR’s Arman Hernandez Jr. and Central Luzon’s Sheena Jillianne Ty with five each of gymnastics and Central Visayas’ Naina Dominique Tagle also five in archery.
CESANO MADERNO, Italy— Overall leader Isaac Del Toro had a chance to take it relatively easy during the 18th stage of the Giro d’Italia on Thursday, which was won by German rider Nico Denz with a solo breakaway. Del Toro, the first Mexican rider to wear the pink jersey, finished safely in the main pack following the 144-kilometer route from Morbegno to Cesano Maderno, which featured three minor
mostly ceremonial finish in Rome on Sunday.
Contrasting wins for Patrick, Rafa in JPGT Caliraya
ATRICK TAMBALQUE
“I don’t know what the situation will be. I cannot predict the future,” Del Toro said. “But of course, if I can be with the GC (general classification) riders, and more or less everything in control for the team, I will be happy enough.
“I hope to be mentally ready,” Del Toro added.
For now, Del Toro maintained his advantage of 41 seconds ahead of 2019 champion Richard Carapaz and 51 seconds ahead of British rider Simon Yates.
Juan Ayuso, Del Toro’s UAE Emirates teammate, abandoned the race early on in the stage after struggling for days.
Considered a pre-race favorite, Ayuso stood 26th, nearly 50 minutes behind Del Toro, and was battling through knee pain and a bee sting. AP
“We obviously didn’t play with the level of force that we needed to,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said. “We lost the rebound battle. We lost the turnover battle. We didn’t shoot well. They had a lot to do with it. So, give them a lot of credit and we’re going to have to play better.” Brunson scored 14 on 6-for-9 shooting in the first quarter as the Knicks held a 27-23 lead— giving up 20 fewer points than in the first quarter of Game 4, when they trailed 43-35. AP
Despite building a sizable lead, Tambalque, who is set to compete next week in a junior interclub tournament at his home course in Riviera, remained focused.
“I wasn’t sure how things would turn out, even with the lead. I just kept my expectations in check and stuck to my game plan,” he said.
Kristoffer Nadales delivered the round of the day under overcast skies, firing a bogey-free 66 to snatch runner-up honors in his first JPGT appearance with a 217 total at the well-maintained par-72 layout, voted as the best course in 2024. Nadales’s late surge relegated Zachary Villaroman and John Paul Agustin Jr. to third and fourth with 75219 and 75-224, respectively. In the girls’ division, Anciano wound up with a 74 for a 54-hole total of 241, securing a three-shot victory over Levonne Talion, who carded a 78 for a 244. Chloe Rada, unable to recover from her early round implosion and further hurt by double bogeys on Nos. 7 and 12, slumped to an 86 and finished third at 249. Tiffany Bernardino rounded out the top four with an 83 for a 252.
“Starting the round with a birdie was the best way to get going,” said Anciano. “Even though I was four shots behind, I knew I could make a comeback. I’ve played well on this course before, and I felt confident that my game—and all the work I’ve put into it—was ready to show.”
Novak swaps racket for bicycle, goes on night time ride in Paris
PARIS— Novak Djokovic traded his racket for a bicycle and swapped the French Open›s clay courts for the cobblestone streets of Paris during a nighttime trip around the Arc de Triomphe.
“I have done some bike rides in the past in Paris, but I haven’t done one in a while,” the 24-time Grand Slam champion said after his second-round victory over Corentin Moutet in the tournament on Thursday. “Roland-Garros was kind enough to gift me a bicycle, so I used it yesterday for the first time.” Less than 24 hours before that match—in which he needed a medical timeout for treatment of a blister on his big left toe—Djokovic was spotted taking in the sights like a tourist while getting some exercise. Someone filmed Djokovic and posted a short clip on social media. Wearing a
sneakers and a properly fastened helmet—safety first!— the 38-yearold Serbian star pedaled through the famously hectic roundabout at one end of the Champs-Élysées. Not exactly the most bike-friendly spot in the City of Light, but Djokovic looked perfectly at ease. “We were kind of trying our luck a little bit with that roundabout at the Arc de Triomphe. To be honest, at one point, we had cars all over the place. It was quite an adrenaline experience, but I don’t think I will repeat that, especially in that environment where we were filmed,” he said. “Probably in all other streets, it’s much more safe. But, yeah, we were crazy enough to get into that roundabout. It was fun but at one point but also a bit dangerous.” Someone called out, “I love you!” and Djokovic responded with a grin and said, “I love you, too.” AP
PATRICK TAMBALQUE prevails by nine strokes. ROY DOMINGO
