peso weakened to an all-time low of P59.17 against the US dollar on Wednesday, weighed down by local governance issues and strong global demand for the greenback.
The peso lost 18.5 centavos against the dollar when it opened at P58.95. It traded at its highest at P59.19 and at its lowest at P58.91, according to data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines.
This is the highest that the peso has ever closed, already exceeding the previous record high closing rate of P59.13 on October 28.
“[This] is expected as it mainly reflects strong global US dollar demand amid expectations that the US Federal Reserve will keep rates higher for longer, coupled with persistent trade deficits and weak foreign inflows on the local side,”
By John Eiron R. Francisco
EMPLOYEES in the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry face a higher risk of developing diabetes than workers in other sectors, largely due to disruptions in their circadian rhythms, experts say.
Dr. Nines Bautista, Vice President of Diabetes Philippines, said at a press briefing in Mandaluyong City for World Diabetes Day that patients with disrupted circadian rhythms—like those who work at night and
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
THE national government must take decisive and urgent action to address local headwinds that have dampened economic growth and could weigh further on the economy in the coming quarters, according to the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI).
In a statement on Wednesday, BPI lead economist Jun Neri said that the issue with the government’s flood control projects may have affected the economy, but the full effect has yet to materialize.
The economy expanded by 4 percent in the third quarter of 2025, according to the Philippine Sta-
tistics Authority (PSA). This is the slowest pace since 2011, if the pandemic years are excluded.
“Without decisive action, the fallout could further drag growth in the coming quarters,” Neri warned, as the flood control controversy could impact business and consumer sentiment further and discourage them from spending.
The potential multiplier effects of reduced public expenditure on construction, materials, and services could also worsen the economic slowdown, according to Neri.
“The country should be putting its resources, effort, and attention on other important matters affecting the economy [such as preparing for the risks related to a potential
disruption of the BPO sector], but it is unable to do so effectively because it is preoccupied with alleged public spending issues,” Neri noted.
Furthermore, the Philippines might lag behind its Asean neighbors if the alleged public spending issues continue to divert attention and resources away from the structural reforms needed to accelerate economic development, Neri said.
“The Philippine economy is growing, but not enough to close the economic gap with other countries,” Neri said.
The GDP per capita of the Philippines is lower compared to other economies in the region.
Compared to other economies in the region, the Philippines’s GDP per capi-
ta is lower and would take two years to catch up with the GDP per capita of Vietnam and four years with Indonesia. It would also take 14 years to keep up with Thailand, 26 years with Malaysia and 70 years with Singapore, if their incomes remain stagnant.
“In reality, their GDP per capita continues to grow, which means the gap could persist or even widen,” Neri added.
To close the widening gap, Neri said sources of growth must be diversified. “The economy must improve in terms of production, especially in agriculture and manufacturing, as they will allow the economy to be more self-sufficient and to reach foreign markets.”
stay awake into the morning— face higher risks of developing diabetes. He explained that a circadian rhythm is the body’s internal 24-hour clock that regulates sleep, wakefulness, metabolism, and other key biological processes. When this natural cycle is disrupted, the body’s systems can become out of sync, which may contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and other factors that increase the likelihood of diabetes. Dr. Bautista also noted that
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
ATOTAL of P3.5 billion remains in the balance of the country’s calamity fund to provide relief and rehabilitation services to areas affected by disasters, according to the Department of Finance (DOF).
In a statement on Wednesday, the DOF said the government has released P17.85 billion under the P21-billion National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF) this year.
The NDRRMF, also referred to as the calamity fund, supports disaster risk reduction, prevention and preparedness activities, as well as immediate aid, relief and rehabilitation services after a calamity.
The government also allocates funds to the Quick Response Fund (QRF) in the national budget, which serves as a standby fund for the rehabilitation and recovery of communities affected by calamities and other national emergencies.
As of November 10, the government has already disbursed P13.96 billion under the QRF, including continuing appropriations from last year.
In November alone, the government released P1.68 billion to support immediate relief, rehabilitation and recovery operations across the country, in areas affected by recent earthquakes and Typhoon Tino and Supertyphoon Uwan.
“It is important for the government to always have funds ready for an immediate response to
emergencies. As the country’s fundraiser, we at the Department of Finance ensure that we have sufficient resources and the capacity to promptly address the needs of every Filipino during times of disaster,” Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto was quoted as saying.
Beyond securing funds, Recto recently issued a DOF circular directing government financial institutions and other state-run firms to speed up the delivery of services and on-the-ground assistance in areas affected by disasters.
The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and the Social Security System (SSS) are providing emergency and calamity loans to eligible members and pensioners. Meanwhile, the Home Develop -
ment Mutual Fund, also known as Pag-Ibig Fund, is providing calamity loans and insurance claims to affected housing loan borrowers, including short-term loans for minor property repairs. Land Bank of the Philippines is also facilitating salary loans for employees of government agencies and private companies in disaster-hit areas, while also offering recovery loans to farmers, fishers, cooperatives, small businesses, corporations and
John Paolo R. Rivera, senior WHERE QUEZON MEETS NINOY Photo shows the
reinforce their own domestic industries, PCCI said the Philippines must “proactively” diversify its export markets and reduce its vulnerability.
“The CPTPP provides a powerful avenue to achieve this, allowing the Philippines to integrate deeper with a bloc of dynamic economies committed to open markets,” PCCI noted.
The CPTPP comprises 12 member economies—Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, Vietnam, and the United Kingdom—representing a combined population of over 500 million and a GDP of $13.5 trillion. By joining, the Philippines will gain preferential access to critical markets where it currently lacks bilateral trade agreements, notably Canada, Mexico, Peru, and the United Kingdom, PCCI noted.
Blended finance could help bridge gap in climate funding
By Erwin James Gianan
ASadaptation finance only accounts for 5 percent of total climate funding globally, blended finance could help bridge the gap, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
“Efforts to strengthen safeguards against potential issues in government spending are essential, enabling the country to work on structural reforms that could improve the economy,” he added.
Although monetary easing could provide temporary support, sustaining progress will depend on addressing the underlying issues related to public spending and the country’s economic model, Neri said.
“Only through reforms can the Philippines achieve faster growth that will narrow its economic gap with regional peers,” he added.
In a statement to the press on Wednesday, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. emphasized the role of blended finance in adaptation finance, recalling how areas with mangroves recovered more quickly in the wake of Super Typhoon Yolanda.
“It is about being ready before the disaster strikes—this is where blend-
Typhoons…
usual” operations at the height of the storm and to conduct inspections and formal investigations when warranted.
ed finance comes in,” Remolona Jr. said. According to Senior Advisor and Head of Asia Pacific of Convergence Ritesh Thrakkar, blended finance is “the use of catalytic capital from public or philanthropic sources to mobilize private sector investment for sustainable development.”
“We acted by directing the regional offices to call in the companies being complained about, followed by inspection and investigation, and that is already ongoing as we speak,” Laguesma said in a radio interview. “I have yet to receive a consolidated report, but the [DOLE] is already taking action.”
Furthermore, adaptation finance involves channeling resources to help communities anticipate and withstand the effects of climate change. In October, the BSP along with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Convergence, held the Blended Finance Forum for the Philippines, which was attended by government agencies, regulators, and other development partners. Participants exchanged insights on adaptation projects and strategies, as well as the application of blended finance solutions in key sectors such as agriculture, micro, small and medium enterprises, and nature-based solutions.
Additionally, a leaders’ round-
The move follows an open letter released Sunday by the BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN), which named at least 19 outsourcing firms in Metro Manila and other major cities that allegedly continued normal operations despite the typhoon.
The group said the limited assistance extended by some companies during the typhoon amounted to “tokenism” and failed to prioritize worker safety.
Laguesma reminded employers that while Labor Advisory No. 17, Series of 2022, gives the private sector the prerogative to suspend work during inclement weather, this should not come at the expense of employee welfare.
“What should always come first is the safety and health of workers,” he said.
Laguesma added that DOLE will also strengthen the enforcement of Republic Act No. 11058, or the Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS) Law, including requirements for firms to maintain OSH programs to en-
table discussion was also conducted, composed of government and private sector participants and featuring Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown, and Climate Change Commission Secretary Robert E.A. Borje.
The Forum is part of the BSP’s Sustainability Agenda, which aims to mobilize finance for the country’s climate priorities and align with the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) from 2023-2050.
The NAP serves as the country’s guide to addressing present and future vulnerabilities to climate change and disasters, identifying priority strategies in adaptation based on the best available climate science, analytics, and practices.
sure workplace safety. He acknowledged that some companies provided transportation, food, or temporary accommodation to workers during the typhoon, but said these should not overshadow the priority of worker safety.
“Even if additional incentives are given, what remains most important is the health and safety of our workers. We know that during calamities, workers think of their families, and employers must understand that,” Laguesma said. He added that DOLE will intensify information dissemination and workplace inspections to ensure compliance.
BIEN on Tuesday filed a formal request before the DOLE main office in Intramuros, Manila, seeking a labor inspection of BPO firms that may have violated Labor Advisory No. 17 and the OSHS Law during the typhoon.
“In light of this, we would like to participate in the said inspections as it is often reported to us that management-selected rankand-file workers are interviewed making the investigation already biased,” BIEN said in its letter.
claims after a patient’s discharge. It would then take PhilHealth another 31 days to process and pay the healthcare provider. In 2023, it took a median of 87 days to process claims, while those returned for corrections averaged 221 days, from patient discharge to payment.
“These delays can strain hospital cash flow, especially for smaller or provincial facilities, and affect their ability to sustain operations and maintain service quality,” PIDS said.
The ACR system, the study found, has not kept pace with the increasing costs of healthcare in the country. PhilHealth pays hospitals a fixed amount per illness or procedure, regardless of severity. However, of the 8,869 case rates, 99.9 percent of these have not been updated since 2013.
“While PhilHealth’s nominal reimbursement has remained the same, its real peso value has declined, and hospital charges have continued to rise,” the authors said. For example, the case rate for a normal childbirth remains at P6,500 for years—worth only P3,900 in 2023 after accounting for inflation.
This has made it more challenging for hospitals, particularly public and provincial ones, to pay operating costs while maintaining services affordable for patients, the authors said.
Average hospital charges rose 51 percent between 2018 and 2023— from P23,852 to P36,130—while PhilHealth’s reimbursements remained at about P11,000.
The study found that hospitals are left to absorb the shortfall or pass on some expenses to patients since around 98.8 percent of hospital claims now exceed the case rate. Even with insurance coverage, Filipinos remain financially vulnerable, as evidenced by out-of-pocket payments still comprising about 44 percent of total health spending.
“When case rates do not consider clinical complexity, healthcare providers may face financial risk and incur losses while delivering the full range of services needed to treat complicated patient cases,” the authors added.
The current setup, the authors warned, penalizes hospitals that care for more complex or multiplecondition patients and passes the financial burden to those already struggling with illness.
town, city, region, or specific site with recognized boundaries; Distinct identity and character. Unique character and appeal stem from culture, landscapes, and attractions, shaping how travelers perceive the destination; and Responsible governing body.
Backed by a tourism governing body responsible for ensuring a destination is effectively managed, developed, and promoted; While a Philippine destination did not make the shortlist of the first TOURISE Awards, it may be eligible to be nominated in most, if not all, categories in subsequent editions.
research fellow at state-run Philippine Institute for Development Studies, said.
On the local side, Rivera said sluggish exports, slower government spending and declining foreign direct investments (FDIs) have reduced the supply of foreign currency supply just as import needs remain high, Rivera said.
“Market confidence is also being tested by governance issues and slower growth, which make investors more cautious,” Rivera added.
Meanwhile, traders attributed the decline in the local currency to the US Senate endorsing a temporary spending bill ending the US govern-
ment shutdown.
“The local currency might depreciate further if the US government shutdown is finally resolved by a concurring vote in the US House of Representatives,” a trader said. The spending bill will fund the US government until January 30, and bankroll the Agriculture and Veterans Affairs departments, the Food and Drug Administration, military construction projects and Congress.
“It is important to note that the US dollar/peso exchange rate is still slightly above the psychological 59.00-mark,” Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation, said, noting that it is still a sign of “relatively stable” peso.
Ricafort said that the start of holiday-related spending will make it more compelling for overseas Filipino workers and other US dollar earners/owners to convert their US dollars for pesos near the record high.
Unless US dollar inflows from remittances, tourism or exports strengthen before the end of the year, Rivera said the local currency may stay under pressure in the 59 to 60 range.
“In the coming months, stabilization will depend on faster fiscal disbursements, stronger FDI signals and clear policy actions that restore both investor and market confidence,” Rivera said.
Remember Pharmally: Legislator on declaration of national calamity
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
ALAWMAKER on Wednesday called for vigilance following the declaration of a state of national calamity, cautioning that unchecked emergency powers could pave the way for corruption similar to the Pharmally scandal, which involves graft over overpriced medical supplies.
Party-list Rep. Chel Diokno of Akbayan made the statement after President Marcos issued Proclamation 1077, declaring a one-year state of national calamity in response to the destruction caused by Typhoon Tino. The proclamation also covers any natural disasters or calamities that may occur within this period.
“We stand in solidarity with our people during this time of crisis. But with the declaration of a state of national calamity, the government must ensure full transparency in all transactions to guarantee that every peso is used properly, efficiently, and solely for the benefit of those affected,” Diokno said.
Diokno expressed concern over the proclamation’s provision, allowing emergency negotiated procurement for one year, warning that it could “open the floodgates to corruption” without strong
transparency and accountability measures.
The Nation Marcos launches clearing of Metro Manila waterways
Diokno outlined several recommendations to ensure proper oversight and prevent abuse of emergency powers, including clearly defining the geographic scope and conditions for maintaining or lifting the state of emergency.
He also said the government should require regular public reporting and independent audits on how emergency funds are used and involve affected local governments in decision-making and monitoring.
In addition, Diokno recommended that all negotiated contracts must be published online to ensure transparency and allow public scrutiny and must not be awarded to undercapitalized companies to prevent exploitation of emergency procurement rules.
“The government must also set sunset clauses or automatic reviews to prevent indefinite extensions, maintain procurement standards even in emergencies with added safeguards against corruption, and establish clear channels for citizens to report misuse or abuse of funds,” he added.
“The declaration of emergency powers is not a blank check,” Diokno said. “Such authority must always come with transparency, accountability, and clear limits to ensure it truly serves the people.”
PBy Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
RESIDENT Marcos led the launching of the nine-month simultaneous clearing and cleaning operations of waterways in the greater Metro Manila, in an effort to reduce flood incidents in the area by 60 percent.
Dubbed as Oplan Kontra Baha, the program will tap the unused P2 billion funds from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the equipment from the private sector to desilt rivers, creeks and esteros (inlet canals) to significantly increase their carrying capacity.
It is expected to remove four million cubic meters of garbage and muck in 142.4 kilometers of waterways and 333.15 km of drainage systems across Metro Manila and its surrounding areas.
Once completed, Marcos said the initiative is expected to minimize floodings in the greater National
Capital Region by 60 percent.
“I am very optimistic that once we get the majority of this done, we will immediately feel that when the rainy season comes again next year, there will be a significant reduction in flooding,” Marcos told reporters in Filipino after witnessing the dredging and cleaning operation in the Balihatar Creek in Parañaque City on Wednesday. Similar initiatives were also simultaneously held in Caingin, Valenzuela City; Sunog Apog in Tondo, City of Manila; San Juan River that flows from Pasig City to Manila; and Las Piñas City. DPWH deployed its heavy equipment, which were stored in
its warehouses and unused since 2018, to help in the implementation of Oplan Kontra Baha.
The said pieces of heavy equipment were being reserved for deployment once the country is hit by “the Big One” or the predicted 7.2-magnitude earthquake from the West Valley Fault in Metro Manila.
However, Marcos said, he also considers the perennial severe flooding in the region a “big” calamity, which justifies tapping the unused DPWH resources to address it.
Institutionalized solution
THE President said they can further reduce flooding incidents once they are able to fix the issue of misplaced pumping stations. There are pumping stations— not just any—many of our pumping stations since they were built have not worked even once. They have not operated even once. Why? Because the pumping station itself, when they were installed, was blocking the water. Instead of providing a solution, the pumping stations that were installed became the problem,” the Chief Executive said.
See “Marcos,” A5
Bloc to Congress leaders: Prove commitment to pass anti-dynasty bill
LAWMAKERS from the Makabayan bloc on Wednesday challenged the House leadership and the Senate to prove their commitment to pass a genuine anti-political dynasty law, warning against another round of “legislative theater” that has repeatedly killed reform bills over the decades.
The group said it remains skeptical despite Speaker Faustino Dy III’s vow to support the Anti-Political Dynasty Act, stressing that “history has shown political dynasties themselves have blocked genuine reform.”
“We challenge the House leaders to prove their sincerity by supporting and fasttracking House Bills 209 and 4784—a true anti-political dynasty measure with clear and uncompromising provisions,” the bloc said in a statement.
The Makabayan lawmakers explained that their measures would prohibit any person from holding or running for national or local office simultaneously with another relative within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity. They also ban immediate succession of relatives to an incumbent’s post to prevent the continuous control of political clans over public offices.
The bloc also pointed to the Senate as a major obstacle, noting that “the irony is not lost” that several senators belong to political families. “Those who benefit from the system will never voluntarily dismantle it,” they added, citing the
See “Anti-dynasty,” A5
Licensed manning agencies push for major policy reforms
By Samuel P. Medenilla
@sam_medenilla
AGROUP of licensed manning agencies pushed for large-scale reforms to allow the country to attract more shipping companies, as well as maritime services, as it is faced with growing competition as the top supplier of seafarers worldwide.
On Tuesday, the Association of Licensed Manning Agencies (Alma) presented the initial findings of a study it commissioned on the Philippine manning service industry and its impact on the Philippine economy. The study covered around 40 licensed manning agencies from the group.
Among the highlights of the study authored by Winston Conrad B. Padojinog, president of the Center for Research and Communication (CRC) and an associate professor at the University of Asia and Pacific, was the declining percentage of Filipino sailors onboard foreign-flagged ships at a given time.
Citing data from a United Kingdombased think tank Drewry, Padojinog said that from 2015 to 2025 the said percentage was down to 14 percent from 45 percent in 1995 and 35 percent in 1990.
“There are countries like India that are gradually taking the market share; countries like Indonesia; Ukraine; so shipowners have more choices in terms of sourcing their manpower,” he said.
Alma board chairperson Iris V. Baguilat explained that the Drewry report painted a different picture compared to the data from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) which showed that the deployment Filipino seafarers actually rose by more than 46 percent to 103,489 last August compared to 70,841 in the same period last year.
The DMW deployment figures, she explained, does not show an accurate number of Filipinos mariners onboard ships at a given time.
Baguilat noted that the contracts of the seafarers they deploy only last for some months, which means there can be multiple Filipinos, who will hold the same position in a year.
“For example, a captain usually has a contract which lasts for four months. So in a ship, there could be three different mariners who will share the said position,” she said. Competitive edge PADOJINOG attributed the decline to policy inconsistencies and instability, which he said if not addressed, will result in the country losing its competitive edge.
Aside from unpredictable policies, other factors, he said, that can discourage shipowners from hiring Filipinos or operating in the country are unreasonable and unfair claims from sailors, blanket penalties, and arbitrary tax measures.
“We have to make sure that we remain competitive compared to other countries because otherwise we will definitely lose that opportunity to deploy more Filipinos abroad,” Padojinog said.
The study highlighted that while seabased remittances from 2021 to 2024 was at P1.47 trillion, its overall impact to the economy is higher due to its multiplier effect.
“Every time a Filipino seafarer sends P1 home, it becomes P3 for the Philippine economy,” Padojinog said.
See “Manning,” A5
Solons push passage of Blue Economy Act
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
LAWMAKERS are pushing for the passage of the proposed Blue Economy Act, a measure that mandates the establishment of an integrated and science-based framework for the protection, sustainable development, and management of the Philippines’ vast marine and coastal resources while creating long-term economic opportunities for future generations.
Majority Leader Sandro Marcos of Ilocos Norte, one of the principal authors, said the bill recognizes the country’s identity as a maritime nation, anchored on the constitutional definition of the Philippine archipelago and its internal waters.
“The maritime character of the Philippine State underscores the integral role of our marine domain in upholding national sovereignty, asserting jurisdiction, promoting ecological security, and advancing sustainable economic development,” Marcos said.
He noted that the Philippines, endowed with rich marine biodiversity and a strong maritime workforce, must now adopt a “coordinated, science-based, and future-resilient approach” to address resource degradation, climate change, and geopolitical tensions.
The measure institutionalizes the Blue Economy as a national development agenda—anchored on sustainability, inclusivity, and intergenerational equity. It aims to consolidate all existing marinerelated initiatives under one coherent framework that promotes a whole-of-nation approach to the management and preservation of the country’s maritime and coastal resources.
The measure adopts the version of the Blue Economy bill approved on third reading by the House of Representatives on December 7, 2023, with 254 affirmative votes during the 19th Congress.
Negros Occidental Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez, also an author, highlighted the Philippines’ immense potential as a blue economy, given that it is the world’s secondlargest archipelagic state.
“Our maritime domains, including our exclusive economic zone, have a total area of 2.2 million square kilometers and compose 88 percent of our national territory. Almost 60 percent of our people
live in coastal communities—proof that the sea is central to our history, culture, and identity,” Benitez said.
He cited the Philippines’ rich marine biodiversity, being at the heart of the Coral Triangle and home to the Verde Island Passage, which harbors nearly 60 percent of the world’s known fish species. The country is also among the top 11 fish-producing nations globally, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization.
Beyond fisheries, Benitez emphasized that maritime freight, marine energy, and coastal and marine tourism are also vital pillars of the country’s maritime economy, which generated $11.9 billion, or about 6.96 percent of GDP, in 2016 and employed around 2.2 million workers.
“The challenge now is to transform our ocean-based industries into sustainable activities. In the face of growing threats from climate change, we need to act now to shift toward a low-carbon, blue economy,” he said.
Benitez also called for the establishment of a marine and coastal resource accounting system to assign monetary value to the ocean’s ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration and other natural processes, to better guide policy and management.
Support
THE Bangko Sentral (BSP) on Tuesday, meanwhile backed efforts to promote the country’s emerging “blue economy” through sustainable finance but opposed proposals to impose mandatory loan quotas for banks to support small-scale fishers and ocean-based enterprises.
During the House Committee on Economic Affairs’ deliberation on several Blue Economy measures—House Bills 2250, 2480, 4791, 4855, and 5116—the BSP Deputy Director Cherryl Ofracia said it supports creating an enabling regulatory environment
that promotes the “new economy” in line with sustainable finance frameworks and international best practices.
“The BSP shall provide an enabling regulatory environment to promote the development of the country’s new economy,” Ofracia said, emphasizing that this approach aligns with the central bank’s sustainable finance policy and allows flexibility for government financial institutions (GFIs) like the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP).
Instead of mandating that a portion of LBP and DBP lending portfolios be dedicated to oceanbased projects, the BSP proposed that the measure simply encourage these banks to integrate sustainability principles into their lending programs and consider oceanbased enterprises as part of their strategic sectors for financing.
The central bank also noted that loans extended to strategic and sustainable ocean-based activities may already fall within the definition of sustainable finance under the mandatory agriculture, fisheries, and rural development (AFRD) financing law, and thus may serve as an eligible form of compliance.
Lawmakers raised the possibility of requiring financial institutions with agriculture loan portfolios to allocate a portion specifically for small-scale fishers.
However, the BSP maintained that credit decisions should be based on banks’ overall strategic direction and risk management, not quotas imposed by law.
The central bank instead proposed offering incentives to encourage private banks to finance blue economy projects, saying such loans could be recognized as alternative compliance with the Agri-Agra Reform Credit Act requirements.
The BSP also underscored the importance of integrating digital finance strategies within the blue economy framework.
“Recent innovations in digital payments and financial technology offer significant potential to promote financial inclusion and expand access to funding sources,” Ofracia said, adding that digitalization can help unlock scalable, sustainable financing solutions that advance both environmental and economic goals.
The BSP’s position came as other agencies—such as the Climate Change Commission (CCC), the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (Bfar), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)—expressed support for the passage of the Blue Economy bills.
Senate about to pass ramped-up classroom construction measure
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
SENATORS are moving to speed up the construction of classroom buildings to fill a huge backlog, after most senators signed up as cosponsors of a ramped up program, and Senate President Vicente Sotto III announced it is listed on the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (Ledac) priority list.
Sen. Bam Aquino’s Classroom-Building Acceleration Program (CAP) Act received overwhelming support from fellow lawmakers as he sponsored the measure on Tuesday, with Sotto saying that the Senate “might as well pass it today.”
The initiative comes days after the Department of Public Works and Highways admitted in a recent hearing it had built only just two dozen of the thousands committed in its school-building program.
“With the number of sponsors and co-authors of this measure, we might as well pass it today,” Sotto said of Aquino’s Senate Bill 1482, or “An Act Establishing the Classroom-Building Acceleration Program (CAP) Under the Department of Education, Authorizing Local Government Units and Civil Society Organizations to Undertake Classroom Construction Projects.”
“But nevertheless, because we have to follow the rules, we will have to suspend and approve it afterwards,” he added.
Twenty-two senators signed Committee Report 6, while Sens. Kiko Pangilinan, Lawrence Go, Loren Legarda, Robinhood Padilla, Raffy Tulfo, Joel Villanueva, Pia Cayetano, Sherwin Gatchalian, Erwin Tulfo, JV Ejercito, Mark Villar, and Jinggoy Estrada co-sponsored the measure.
Sens. Imee Marcos, Camille Villar, Raffy Tulfo, Legarda, Villanueva, Estrada, and Gatchalian co-authored the proposed measure.
Sotto, meanwhile, also informed Aquino that Senate Bill 1482 has been included on the Ledac priority list.
“I have good news for you. Senate Bill 1482, establishing the Classroom-Building Acceleration Program, of which you are the principal author and sponsor, is included on the Ledac [list]. Even the Palace is backing up your bill. Ledac priority list, it’s included there,” he said.
Aquino, for his part, thanked his colleagues for their overwhelming support, adding that the CAP Act is a measure where lawmakers can work together for the Filipino youth and the Filipino people.
“I’d just like to thank our colleagues for the huge support. I didn’t expect to have so many as co-sponsors and co-authors,” said Aquino, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education.
“I hope this can be one of the measures where we can work together for the Filipino youth and the Filipino people,” he added. In his sponsorship speech, Aquino called for the swift passage of the CAP Act, saying it will help close the gap and eventually end the massive 165,000-classroom backlog in public schools and promote transparency and accountability in classroom construction.
He underscored the need to immediately address the classroom backlog with the help of local government units (LGUs) and qualified non-government organizations (NGOs) before it balloons to 219,000 in the next three years if left unacted upon. He also lamented the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) slow implementation, noting that only 22 out of 1,700 target classrooms for 2025 have been completed so far.
“If we want to close the classroom gap by 2031–in 6 years–we need to build 39,000 classrooms each year. Take note: of the target for 2025, only 1,700 classrooms. With such a small target natin, it is impossible to close the classroom gap,” Aquino said.
“But if we want to close the gap, in six years, we must build 39,000 classrooms per year for six years. The cost of this is roughly, P90 billion annually; or to close our classroom gap, we need P540 billion over six years,” he added.
While the amount required is substantial, Aquino said it is equivalent to just half of theP252 billion originally allocated for one year by the government for flood control programs in the proposed 2026 national budget.
Aquino said the government owes it to students to adequately fund classroom construction, calling it a “fitting gift to the country’s 25 million public school learners.”
NHA, Marawi Board set to speed up siege payouts
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
THE National Housing Authority (NHA) and the Marawi Compensatory Board (MCB) have signed an agreement to speed up compensation for residents whose private properties were demolished during the Marawi Siege.
The Memorandum of Agreement, signed on November 5 in Quezon City, formalized coordination under Republic Act 11696, the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022.
It covers properties cleared for debris management and the removal of unexploded ordnance under the Rightof-Way Act.
The signing follows an earlier memorandum of understanding in July and an August meeting with the Marawi civil society organizations convergence group, which stressed the urgency of providing payments to about 3,000 claimants across the city’s most affected areas. Under the agreement, both the NHA and MCB will release additional guidelines and conduct information campaigns to help claimants navigate the process.
The NHA, as part of the Task Force Bangon Marawi Subcommittee on Housing, continues work on the city’s reconstruction, including debris management, road infrastructure and the construction of permanent and temporary shelters for internally displaced residents. Through its Housing Assistance Program for Calamity Victims-Marawi Conflict Transitory Shelter Program, the agency has already completed six housing projects in Lanao del Sur. As of October 30, the MCB has released a total of P2.753 billion to beneficiaries. Recent payments included P154.8 million distributed to 108 claimants and P150.9 million to 79 claimants on October 16. In total, 2,838 claims have been resolved.
Customs personnel involved in ‘syndicate-style’ operations involving cars now being investigated
THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has started investigating several of its personnel allegedly involved in “syndicatestyle” operations that manipulated shipment inspections, Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno told senators on Wednesday.
During the organizational meeting of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian asked Nepomuceno about reports that some BOC employees had swapped vehicle inspection results to facilitate the release of imported cars.
“Parang itong operation is really sindikato…mga BOC employees din ang gumagawa [This operation seems to be run by a syndicate involving BOC employees],” Gatchalian said, asking whether those
responsible have been identified and sanctioned.
Nepomuceno confirmed that show cause orders were issued to more than 10 personnel, who are now undergoing internal investigation.
“We already issued show cause orders to those involved, and we already submitted this to the ICI to break this practice,” he said, referring to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure which is currently looking into the flood control scam.
He added that some personnel had been relieved from their posts, while others remain under review as part of due process. Nepomuceno stressed that the bureau
has identified those possibly involved not only in the Discaya luxury car shipments, but also in similar cases.
“Kailanganpotalagangfull digitalization. Otherwise, these problems will always be recurrent for the next 50 years [We really need full digitalization. Otherwise, these problems will keep recurring for the next 50 years],”
Nepomuceno said, noting that the bureau’s Electronic-to-Mobile (E2M) system still lacks the capability to trace which employee performs each transaction.
Committee chairperson Sen. Pia Cayetano expressed support for the bureau’s modernization drive, saying digitalization is necessary to enhance transparency and accountability.
Nepomuceno confirmed that the Senate Committee of Finance has committed funding for the digitalization initiative which he said has also the full support of President Marcos.
The investigation follows an earlier BOC report showing that most of the luxury cars seized from contractor couple Pacifico and Cezarah Rowena Discaya had no records of paid duties and taxes, with the bureau now investigating how some of the vehicles were released and registered with the Land Transportation Office despite incomplete import documents.
Nepomuceno assured senators that reforms are underway to ensure accountability and prevent recurrence. PNA
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BI arrests high-profile Korean fugitives
TBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Wednesday announced the arrest of two high-profile Korean fugitives who are being pursued by authorities for their alleged involvement in illegal gambling operations across Asia.
The BI identified the suspects as Seo Hyemi, 38, and Park Unbae, 48. Seo was arrested along Ayala Avenue, Makati City, while Park Unbae was captured along Teodoro Evangelista Street in Parañaque City, in separate operations by the BI-Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) last week.
Based on the information provided by Korean authorities to the BI, Seo is behind the operations of 23 online gambling platforms, including websites offering sports betting and casino-style games such as baccarat and Powerball.
She was the subject of an Interpol Red Notice issued in May 2025, following an arrest warrant from the Incheon District Court for violations of South Korea’s National Sports Promotion Act, including running unlicensed gambling websites and laundering proceeds.
The BI-FSU said Seo oversaw recruitment, managed player accounts, and promoted websites that catered to thousands of bettors.
She entered the Philippines in September 2021 as a temporary visitor and is already overstaying.
She is listed under both a BI blacklist and watchlist order.
On the other hand, Park is wanted by the Busan District Court and Eujeongbu District Court for setting up illegal gambling operations and violating the National Sports Promotion Act of South Korea.
An Interpol Red Notice was is -
sued against him in August 2025. According to authorities, Park and his accomplices operated a website that allows its users to place wagers on global sporting events, offering hundreds of games and processing winnings and payments.
Park arrived in the Philippines on March 31, 2023, and is also overstaying.
He is also listed under a BI blacklist and watchlist order. Both fugitives were immediately transported to the BI Warden Facility in Bicutan, Taguig City, for booking, documentation, and verification, pending deportation proceedings.
“These operations send a clear message: the Philippines is not a safe haven for foreign fugitives,” BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said.
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arbitration system for Filipino seafarers; higher qualifications for arbiters; transparent digital tax administration and no-contact digital audits.
To boost shipowner confidence in the Philippines, Padojinog recommended the creation of a “Blue Check” for regulation compliant manning agencies which will allow it to voluntarily accreditation and qualify for other incentives; replacement of blanket suspension with a tieredbased penalty system; and the continued implementation of Republic Act 12021 or the Magna Carta for Filipino Seafarers and the country’s compliance with European Maritime Safety Agency regulations. He also proposed modernizing the
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Under the proposed measure, LGUs and NGOs with a proven track record will be authorized to construct classrooms using national government funds, in compliance with the Department of Education’s (DepEd) standards and guidelines.
Aquino also highlighted the bill’s strong anti-corruption safeguards, such
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The government launched Oplan Kontra Baha after the country was devastated by Typhoons Tino (international name: Kalmaegi) and Uwan (international name; Fung-Wong), which resulted in heavy flooding in many areas.
Marcos said the initial phase of the program will continue from November 2025 to July 2026 to help deepen the covered waterways by as much three meters or 10 feet.
“But even after those nine months, we will continue, regularly cleaning, desilting, cleaning up the garbage, we will continue to do all of this. We cannot stop because we know that it [silt] is still accumulating,”
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Marcos and Duterte clans as among “the worst iterations” of political dynasties in the country.
A 2025 UNDP report by political scientist Temario Rivera found that 94 percent of Philippine provinces are dominated by political families, with an average of 2.3 dynasties per province.
“The goal is clear—to return government to the people, not to the few,” the group said. “Nearly four decades have passed since the Constitution prohibited dynasties, yet Congress has failed to pass an enabling law, allowing families to monopolize power and perpetuate inequality.”
In a related move, members of the Akbayan Reform Bloc filed House Bill 5905, another comprehensive Anti-Political Dynasty Bill, seeking to fully implement Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution.
“These are very specific recommendations coming from the industry in the hope that we will be able to come up with a predictable environment to operate at peak long term,” Padojinog added.
The said initiatives, he said, can help bring in ship management and maritime service industries in the Philippines. Currently, he said, shipowners inject P54.3 billion into the Philippine economy for the pre-deployment requirements of Filipino sailors alone. Overall, he said, they contribute P1.06-trillion in total economic
as a standardized price ceiling to prevent overpricing and ensure that public funds are spent properly.
The proposed measure also requires the DepEd to publicly disclose all documents related to classroom construction under the CAP Act, allowing the public to monitor the use of funds and ensure transparency. Around 800 local officials, including governors, vice governors, mayors, vice mayors, councilors, board members, and other leaders, have already expressed their
Marcos said. Waterway clearing and cleaning initiatives, he said, will now be included in the regular Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) of the DPWH.
Nationwide implementation THE project will be scaled-up and also be implemented Cebu, Bacolod, Roxas City, Bulacan, Pampanga, Cavite, Laguna, Pangasinan, Cotabato, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and other places, which are floodprone.
It is part of the long-term solution of the Marcos administration to address floodings nationwide, which also includes investigating anomalous flood control projects, and also rehabilitation of watersheds and building water impounding structures upstream.
The measure, authored by Akbayan Reps. Chel Diokno, Perci Cendaña, Dadah Kiram Ismula, and Dinagat Island Kaka Bag-ao, aims to prevent the concentration of political power within families and open leadership opportunities for ordinary citizens.
“Ordinary Filipinos shouldn’t have to fight political dynasties just to serve their communities. They’re not the real dragons that need slaying,” Bag-ao said. “For me, the real dragons are poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment. This bill ensures that capable leaders from communities can tackle those challenges without being blocked by inherited power.”
The filing comes amid the continued dominance of political dynasties in the Philippines. According to the Ateneo Policy Center, dynasties increased from 19 percent of all elected positions in 1988 to 29 percent in 2017, adding roughly 170 positions per election cycle. By 2019, families holding multiple simultaneous elected offices continued to grow, reflecting entrenched
activity or about 4 percent of the country’s gross domestic product.
Baguilat said they are now finalizing the report before they submit it to government policy makers such as Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) for consideration.
She noted they already submitted parts of the recommendations to some government agencies such as the “Blue check” to DMW and the enhancement of the National Conciliation and Mediation Board to the Department of Labor and Employment and were met with a receptive response.
“But of course they will study it since it is a proposal. They will balance it with the [policies] that they want,” Baguilat said.
strong support for the passage of Aquino’s measure.
Among them were League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) National President and Echague Mayor Inno Dy, Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Marikina Mayor Maan Teodoro, Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Trenas, Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, Tampakan Mayor Leonard Escobillo, Infanta, Quezon Mayor LA Ruanto, and Akbayan Partylist Reps. Chel Diokno and Perci Cendana.
“It’s the beginning of a very wideranging program to at least partially solve the problem of flooding especially in the urban areas, especially in Metro Manila and the other highly urbanized cities and provinces,” he said.
The President recognized the valuable assistance of the local government units (LGU) and the private sector, including San Miguel Corp. president and chief executive officer (CEO) Ramon Ang and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation president and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan in making the antiflood initiative a success.
“We will just keep doing this. This is not an instant solution. If we study the flooding problem with our experts, it will not be fixed because we have done one thing. We will have to do many things,” Marcos said.
power across local and national levels.
Studies show the impact on governance and development is significant. A 2015 Philippine Institute for Development Studies report found dynasties concentrated in the poorest provinces, often reinforcing weak institutions, persistent poverty, and limited economic opportunities.
The bill defines political dynasties clearly and specifies prohibited familial relationships among candidates and elected officials. Its authors said the measure is designed to broaden leadership, open democratic spaces, and give reformoriented leaders a fair chance to serve.
Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima of Mamamayang Liberal, who also filed HB 2131, or the “Anti-Political Dynasty Act,” welcomed Dy’s statement of support for the measure.
However, de Lima urged the House leadership to move beyond promises and press the President to certify both bills as urgent.
Pass anti-dynasty, campaign fund bills: Namfrel to Congress
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
HE National Citizens’ Movement for
TFree Elections (Namfrel) on Tuesday urged Congress to prioritize longdelayed measures banning political dynasties and tightening campaign finance rules.
In its 12-point reform agenda submitted to the House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms, the group said the Philippine electoral system still faces “systemic challenges that undermine democratic governance and enable corruption.”
“Namfrel’s mission remains steadfast: to ensure that all elections reflect the true will of informed voters and to secure transparent, low-cost, competitive, inclusive, orderly, free, and fair elections. These reforms are essential to breaking the corruption-politics nexus that has captured Philippine governance,” it said.
At the top of Namfrel’s list are the AntiPolitical Dynasty Act of 2025 and the Campaign Finance Transparency and Accountability Act.
Namfrel said nearly four decades after the 1987 Constitution ordered a law banning political dynasties, the provision remains “unimplemented.”
It said this has allowed “the concentration of political and economic power within elite families,” reinforcing patronage and corruption.
Comelec proclaims new Ako Bicol nominee after Zaldy Co’s resignation
THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday proclaimed Jan Franz Norbert Chan as the new second nominee of the Ako Bicol party-list following the resignation of its first nominee, Zaldy Co.
Co stepped down from his post last September, citing “imminent threat” to his and his family’s safety as the government investigate corruption allegations linked to his name.
His resignation took effect after it was formally accepted by the House of Representatives.
To recall, Ako Bicol won two seats in the 2025 midterm elections, giving Co and second nominee Alfred Garbin seats in the House of Representatives.
With Co’s resignation, Garbin now becomes the party-list’s first nominee, while Chan— originally the third nominee—moves up to assume the second seat.
Under the Party-List System Act, any permanent vacancy is automatically filled by the next nominee in the list submitted to the Comelec during the filing of certificates of candidacy and nomination.
To push renewable energy, mental health advocacy IN a chance interview, Chan said that once he assumes office in the 20th Congress, he intends to prioritize measures related to renewable energy and mental health.
“The one I really want to push is about renewable energy because that has been my advocacy even when I was in law school,” Chan told reporters.
“Aside from that, I’m also very interested in pushing for laws on mental health. One of the things I’m thinking about is a bill supporting parents of children who have special needs, children diagnosed with autism or other psychosocial disorders.”
A native of Rapu-Rapu, Albay, Chan added that he will also support bills promoting disaster resilience in provinces that frequently experience calamities.
“Our priority now is to continue what Ako Bicol has been doing when it comes to public service…As we can see right now…the whole Ako Bicol is very active in continuing our public service efforts, especially after the recent typhoon,” he also said.
Before his proclamation, Chan served as a senior partner at ChanRobles & Associates Law Firm and consultant for the Philippine National Oil Company.
Ako Bicol said he also previously worked with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines and other organizations focused on sustainability and environmental protection.
Chan is set to take his oath before the House of Representatives to officially assume his post as Ako Bicol’s new party-list representative.
Justine Xyrah Garcia
Under the proposed law, relatives within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity are barred from holding elective positions in the same province or city at the same time.
Immediate family members are also prohibited from succeeding each other in the same post without an intervening term.
The group also renewed its call for campaign finance reform, saying the opacity of election spending remains “the primary vehicle for corruption”in Philippine elections.
“Current campaign finance laws are grossly inadequate. The Omnibus Election Code sets spending limits that have not been meaningfully updated, making them obsolete. Disclosure requirements are weak, enforcement is lax, and anonymous donations facilitate corruption,” it noted.
The proposed Campaign Finance Transparency and Accountability Act requires real-time disclosure of donations exceeding P50,000 within 48 hours and bans anonymous donations above P10,000.
It would also index spending limits to inflation and prohibit corporate and foreign contributions.
“These reforms will lower cost barriers, encourage wider participation, and reduce financial burdens that incentivize corruption after election,” Namfrel said.
Toward credible 2028 polls
NAMFREL urged lawmakers to modernize the 1985 Omnibus Election Code through the Election Code Modernization Act of 2025.
The group said the code “predates the internet, social media, automated elections, and modern campaign techniques.”
Piecemeal amendments, it added, have created “a confusing legal landscape that hampers enforcement.”
The proposal includes digital campaign regulations, audit mechanisms for automated systems, and transparency standards for technology used in elections.
Namfrel recommended strengthening political parties, separating Comelec’s judicial and administrative functions, and giving legal recognition to civil society’s role in election monitoring.
“The Philippine electoral system is at a critical juncture,” Namfrel said. “Systemic corruption, political dynasties, weak parties, obsolete laws, and inadequate technology have created a captured democracy that serves elite interests rather than the common good.”
The passage of these measures will determine whether the 2028 elections “can mark a turning point” toward polls that are “free, fair, transparent, competitive, inclusive, orderly, honest, and low-cost,” it said.
Jeepney, bus, taxi fares may rise as LTFRB nears decision
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is expected to finalize and submit its recommendation on the pending petitions for fare adjustments to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) on or before November 17, following a series of nationwide public consultations.
LTFRB Chairman Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II said the agency has begun drafting its position based on arguments raised by transport groups and feedback from recent public consultations.
“We will submit our recommendations to our bosses over the weekend. Right now, we are drafting the inputs based on the arguments during the public consultations made for this specific purpose, which is the fare increase,” he said.
The chairman noted that transport groups have cited familiar concerns in their petitions, including rising fuel prices, maintenance costs, and insufficient income to cover operational expenses.
Mendoza earlier directed all LTFRB regional directors to conduct public consultations on fare adjustments for jeepneys, buses, and taxis, with results expected by November 14. Based on documents provided by the agency to the media, traditional public utility jeepneys are seeking to raise the minimum fare from P13 to P15, while modern jeepneys are asking for an increase from P15 to P17.
Airport taxi operators want their flagdown rate doubled from P75 to P150, and other airport service groups are pushing for a hike to P100.
For city buses, operators are seeking a
P2 increase in minimum fares, from P13 to P15 for ordinary and from P15 to P17 for air-conditioned units. Provincial buses are asking for a base fare adjustment from P11 to P12.67, with corresponding per-kilometer increases depending on class.
Point-to-Point (P2P) operators are proposing a 30-percent fare hike.
Meanwhile, TNVS operators are seeking higher flagdown rates—sedans from P45 to P65, AUVs/SUVs from P55 to P75, and hatchbacks from P35 to P55. Premium services are proposing an increase from P145 to P200. A separate petition from Laban TNVS mirrors these adjustments, with sedans proposed at P70.
Mendoza said some transport groups offered recommendations “to ease the burden on commuters,” which the LTFRB will include in its submission to Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez.
He noted that while the LTFRB will state its position on matters within its authority, recommendations beyond the agency’s scope will be referred to appropriate government bodies.
“We will echo the recommendations of the transport sector and other stakeholders once we submit ours to our bosses. We will include our position on matters that are within our powers but for the recommendations that are beyond the scope of the LTFRB, we will leave it to the proper authorities,” Mendoza said.
The last fare adjustment was granted in September 2022, when the minimum jeepney fare rose by P1 for traditional units and P2 for modern units. In October 2023, the Board approved a provisional P1 increase for both. Bus and taxi operators also received modest hikes during the same period.
NUP files bill to convene Constitutional Convention to update 1987 Constitution
By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie
AS the House Committee on Constitutional Amendments began its initial deliberations on proposals to amend the 1987 Constitution, lawmakers from the National Unity Party (NUP) on Wednesday filed a bill seeking to convene a Constitutional Convention (ConCon) to propose updates to the 1987 Charter through a participatory, transparent, and democratic process.
Deputy Speaker and National Unity Party (NUP) Chairman Ronaldo“Ronnie”V. Puno, along with his fellow NUP members, has filed House Bill 5870, which seeks to convene a Constitutional Convention to propose amendments, revisions, or changes to the 1987 Constitution. The measure also sets the election date of delegates, outlines the composition, powers, and functions of the convention, and provides for its funding and other related purposes.
“For nearly four decades, the 1987 Constitution has anchored our democracy. But experience has shown that ambiguities, procedural lapses, and outdated provisions have created confusion and weakened institutional accountability,” the explanatory note states. “This measure seeks to fulfill—not discard—the 1987 Constitution: to correct its errors, complete its intent, and reinforce its authority with clarity and coherence.”
Under the proposal, 150 delegates will be elected on May 11, 2026, representing all 18 administrative regions, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Each region will elect three base delegates, with additional delegates apportioned according to population, to ensure balanced representation.
Unlike previous conventions, there will be no appointed delegates to prevent political interference. Delegates must be natural-born Filipino citizens, at least 25 years old, college degree holders, and not currently holding any political office. They will also be barred from seeking any public position for one year after the Convention’s adjournment—an additional safeguard against political capture.
“The Constitutional Convention offers the most prudent, participatory, and legitimate mechanism for reform,” said Puno. “It invites the nation to confront enduring constitutional ambiguities through reasoned debate, anchored in the rule of law and the people’s voice.”
The measure focuses on clarifying textual inconsistencies—particularly on provisions regarding impeachment, amnesty, tax exemptions, and the composition of the Judicial and Bar Council—which have led to legal uncertainty and institutional conflict.
House Bill 5870 mandates that the Convention be convened no later than July 15, 2026, and complete its work within one year unless extended by law. Any proposed amendments or revisions will be submitted to a national plebiscite within 60 to 90 days after approval, in accordance with Article XVII of the Constitution.
The authors stressed that their proposal is not meant to rewrite history or disrupt governance, but to strengthen the legal foundations of Philippine democracy and ensure that reforms are carried out within constitutional, participatory, and transparent frameworks.
The House Committee on Constitutional Amendments on Wednesday began its initial deliberations on proposals to amend the 1987 Constitution, with the authors sponsoring their respective measures. At present, there are five bills pending before the committee seeking to introduce amendments to the 1987 Charter.
Angara assesses typhoon damage in Negros, expedites aid for schools
EDUCATION Secretary Juan Edgardo“Sonny” Angara joined the mission to Negros Occidental to assess the extensive damage caused by Typhoon Tino and provide urgent support to affected schools, including the fasttracking of classroom repairs, learning continuity measures, and restoration of connectivity.
According to DepEd situation report, Typhoon Tino damaged 1,726 classrooms across the Negros Island Region, including 277 totally destroyed and 424 with major damage, amounting to roughly P954.7 million in estimated reconstruction costs.
DepEd-Negros Island Region officials confirmed that more than 64,000 learners and 3,500 education personnel were directly affected by the typhoon in province alone.
Angara was joined by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, and local officials on Tuesday in meeting evacuees and local
stakeholders in flood-affected communities across the province.
The team inspected damaged schools and bridges and oversaw the distribution of Starlink units from DICT and laptops from ConnectED by Her Legacy Project Foundation Inc. at La Castellana ES, Moises Padilla ES, Roberto Salas Benedicto ES, and Jose Pepito Montilla Garcia NHS to restore connectivity and support learning continuity. Each LGU in Binalbagan, La Carlota, and La Castellana also received a Starlink unit.
“Ang tanong namin is what can we give right away?” Secretary Angara said, referring to the immediate requests raised by school heads.
“That’s what the school requested. They don’t have internet connection. That’s why we’re providing around 30 units of IT equipment—laptops and Starlink connectivity—for immediate deployment to the affected schools, he added.
Angara also led the distribution of Edukahon containing food packs and learning kits as part of
DepEd’s ongoing assistance to affected families. Earlier in the day, during a courtesy call and situation briefing at the Provincial Capitol in Bacolod City, Angara and Frasco met with Governor Lacson and other agency and local representatives to coordinate relief and recovery operations.
“We are coordinating closely with the President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and national agencies to accelerate the rehabilitation of affected schools across all impacted provinces. Our goal is simple: rebuild quickly, rebuild better, and rebuild safer,” he said.
DepEd’s regional and division engineers are conducting ongoing structural integrity checks, while minor repairs and cleanup operations have begun in coordination with local governments, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
A8 Thursday, November 13, 2025
Editor: Angel R. Calso
G7 diplomats meet in Canada to tackle US tensions and pressing global issues
By Rob Gillies & Matthew Lee The Associated Press
NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE,
Ontario—Top diplomats from the Group of Seven industrialized democracies are converging on southern Ontario as tensions rise between the US and traditional allies like Canada over defense spending, trade and uncertainty over President Donald Trump’s ceasefire plan in Gaza and efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war.
Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said in an interview with The Associated Press that “the relationship has to continue across a range of issues” despite trade pressures as she prepared to host US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and their counterparts from Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Japan on Tuesday and Wednesday.
“We’re tackling a range of critical issues with one main focus: putting the safety and security of Americans FIRST,” Rubio said in a social media post.
Anand also invited the foreign ministers of Australia, Brazil, India, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, South Korea, South Africa and Ukraine. Anand said critical priorities for discussion Tuesday night include talks on advancing longterm peace and stability in the Middle East.
“The peace plan must be upheld,” Anand said. The diplomats will meet with Ukraine’s foreign minister early Wednesday. Britain says it will send 13 million pounds ($17 million) to help patch up Ukraine’s
energy infrastructure as winter approaches and Russian attacks intensify. The money will go toward repairs to power, heating and water supplies and humanitarian support for Ukrainians.
UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, who made the announcement before the meeting, said Russian President Vladimir Putin “is trying to plunge Ukraine into darkness and the cold as winter approaches,” but the British support will help keep the lights and heating on.
Canada recently made a similar announcement.
Canada’s G7 hosting duties this year have been marked by strained relations with its North American neighbor, predominantly over Trump’s imposition of tariffs on Canadian imports. But the entire bloc of allies is confronting major turbulence over the Republican president’s demands on trade and various proposals to halt worldwide conflicts.
One main point of contention has been defense spending. All G7 members except for Japan are members of NATO, and Trump has demanded that the alliance partners spend 5% of their annual gross domestic product on defense. While a number of countries have agreed, others have not. Among the G7 NATO members, Canada and Italy are furthest from that goal.
Anand said Canada will reach 5% of GDP by 2035. There have also been G7 disagreements over the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, with Britain, Canada and France announcing they would recognize a Palestinian state even without a resolution to the conflict. With the Russia-Ukraine war, most G7 members have taken a tougher line on Russia than Trump has.
The two-day meeting in Niagara-on-the-Lake on Lake Ontario near the US border comes after Trump ended trade talks with Canada because the Ontario provincial government ran
an anti-tariff advertisement in the US that upset him. That followed a spring of acrimony, since abated, over Trump’s insistence that Canada should become the 51st US state.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney apologized for the ad and said last week that he’s ready to resume trade talks when the Americans are ready.
Anand said she will have a meeting with Rubio but noted that a different minister leads the US trade file. The US president has placed greater priority on addressing his grievances with other nations’ trade policies than
on collaboration with G7 allies.
“Every complex relationship has numerous touch points,” Anand said in the interview, “On the trade file, there is continued work to be done—just as there is work to be done on the numerous touch points outside the trade file, and that’s where Secretary Rubio and I come in because the relationship has to continue across a range of issues.”
Anand said Rubio asked her during a breakfast meeting in Washington last month to play a role in bringing countries to the table to ensure that Trump’s Gaza ceasefire plan has longevity, including with a future Gaza reconstruction conference.
US officials said Rubio, who also may have meetings with other G7 counterparts and at least one of the invited non-G7 foreign ministers, would be focused on initiatives to halt fighting in Ukraine and Gaza, maritime security, Haiti, Sudan, supply chain resiliency and critical minerals.
Canada’s priorities include ending the war in Ukraine, Arctic security and security in Haiti. There will be a working lunch on energy and critical minerals that are needed for anything from smartphones to fighter jets. Canada possesses 34 critical minerals and metals that the Pentagon is actively pursuing and investing in for national security purposes.
Spain, China deepen cooperation with new agreements during King Felipe VI’s visit
BEIJING—Spanish King Feli -
pe VI and Chinese President Xi Jinping signed agreements on language exchanges and other areas Wednesday as both sides vowed to strengthen their cooperation.
The monarch’s visit comes as Spain, the eurozone’s fourthlargest economy, continues its courtship of China and Chinese investment while the relationship with the United States is strained under President Donald Trump. In April, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, head of the country’s government, made his third visit to China in as many years. Spain is one of the more friendly countries to China relative to others in the European Union in recent years.
Felipe and Queen Letizia were met by Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan in front of Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, and were greeted with a performance by the military band and a 21-gun salute. This is the first state visit for the Spanish king to China, and he was also accompanied by Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares.
“China stands ready to work
hand in hand with Spain to build a comprehensive strategic partnership that is more strategically steady, more dynamic in development, and more influential internationally,” said Xi in his opening remarks, particularly while the international situation is “complex and volatile.” He said that China would also import more Spanish products,
without specifying, according to a readout of the meeting from the official Xinhua news.
Felipe and Xi signed agreements promoting cooperation in language exchanges, economic issues, and exporting aquatic products to China.
Felipe is also scheduled to meet with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, chairman of China’s top legislative body.
The monarch’s first stop in
China was the city of Chengdu, where alongside Spain’s foreign minister and economy minister, he attended a Spain-China business forum with several Spanish business leaders. Spain has taken a less adversarial stance toward China, and has sought to reposition trade relations with the country, whose exports to Spain are far greater
FOREIGN Ministers, from left, European Union’s Kaja Kallas, Japan’s Toshimitsu Motegi, Britain’s Yvette Cooper, France’s Jean-Noel Barrot, Canada’s Anita Anand, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Germany’s Johann Wadephul and Italy’s Antonio Tajani pose for the family photo during the G7 Foreign Ministers’ meeting at the White Oaks Resort in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada, Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. MANDEL NGAN/POOL PHOTO VIA AP
SPAIN’S King Felipe VI and Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, shake hands after a signing ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. MAXIM SHEMETOV/POOL PHOTO VIA AP
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New Trump directive could deny visas based on applicants’ health, finances
By Matthew Lee, Gisela Salomon & Ali Swenson The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—A new directive by President Donald Trump’s administration could make it more difficult for foreigners to visit or live in the United States if they have certain medical conditions such as diabetes or obesity or lack the economic resources and assets to support themselves.
The guidance, issued last week in a cable from the State Department and obtained by The Associated Press, directs embassy and consular officials to comprehensively and thoroughly vet visa applicants to demonstrate that they will not need to rely on public benefits from the government any time after their admission in the US. Experts say it could further limit who gets to enter the country at a time when the Republican administration is already tightening those rules.
The directive reveals how the Trump administration interprets public charge, the concept in immigration law that foreigners can be refused entry or permanent residency status if they are likely to rely on US government resources, such as certain types of cash and food aid.
While federal law already required those seeking permanent residency or legal status to prove they wouldn’t be a public charge, Trump in his first term widened the range of benefit programs that could disqualify applicants, and the guidelines in the cable appear to go further in scope.
“This could lead to a substantial narrowing of immigration,” said Julia Gelatt, associate director of the US immigration policy program at the Migration Policy Institute. “The Trump administration is trying to go back to the policies that it worked to implement in its first term related to public charge.”
New directive goes further on health requirements
SINCE returning to office in January, Trump has pursued a government-wide immigration crackdown that has involved tightening rules on foreigners being let into the country and those already in it. Immigration policy experts say the latest guidance could reduce the number of immigrant and non-immigrant visas granted and could disproportionately affect some groups of foreigners seeking access to the US, such as older adults and people with low incomes.
The cable was sent from State Department headquarters to every US Embassy and US Consulate around the world.
“The Trump Administration is putting the interests of the American people first,” State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said Tuesday. “This includes enforcing policies that ensure our immigration system is not a burden on the American taxpayer.”
Immigrants seeking entry into the US already undergo a medical exam by a physician who’s been approved by a US Embassy. They are screened for communicable diseases, like tuberculosis, and asked to disclose any history of drug or alcohol use, mental health conditions or violence. They’re also required to have a number of vaccinations.
The new directive goes further with more specific requirements. The cable says consular officials must consider a range of specific details about people
seeking visas, including their age, health, family status, finances, education, skills and any past use of public assistance regardless of the country. It also says they should assess applicants’ English proficiency and can do so by conducting interviews in English.
Experts say the directive could broaden who gets denied a visa Among the medical conditions that could disqualify a visa applicant are chronic conditions; obesity; high blood pressure; cardiovascular, metabolic and neurological diseases; depression; anxiety; and mental health conditions that can require “hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of care,” the cable says. It also tells consular officials that whenever an applicant is seeking to use finances to satisfy public charge requirements, they should request to view the applicant’s bank and financial documents, evidence of their assets, checking, savings, brokerage, trust funds and retirement accounts.
Although the guidelines primarily impact people outside the United States or those seeking to renew their visas, some experts warn that they could also affect family members of people already living in the US who would like to come to visit or live with them.
Adriana Cadena, executive director at Protecting Immigrant Families, said the policy is “dangerous” and impacts immigrant families living legally in the US.
“Its reported breadth and secrecy drive confusion and concern that deter lawfully present immigrants and US citizens in immigrant families from getting help and care for which they qualify under federal law,” Cadena said.
US officials familiar with the new guidelines said that the change applied to immigrant visas and not to non-immigrant visas known as B-2s, which allows for short-term stays that include personal visits and medical treatment.
Much discretion is left to consular officers to interpret the guidance as they see fit, immigration attorney Steven Heller said. But he added that the guidance represents a messaging shift, from approaching visa applications in a favorable light toward considering all circumstances to find reasons to deny them.
“The new guidance is about messaging,” Heller said. “They are being given clearance to use the ‘totality of the circumstances’ as a sword, rather than a shield.”
Salomon reported from Miami. Associated Press writer Rebecca Santana contributed to this report.
Speaker Johnson faces an unruly House as lawmakers return for shutdown vote
By Lisa Mascaro
AP Congressional Correspondent
WASHINGTON—After refusing to convene the US House during the government shutdown, Speaker Mike Johnson is recalling lawmakers back into session—and facing an avalanche of pent-up legislative demands from those who have largely been sidelined from governing.
Hundreds of representatives are preparing to return Wednesday to Washington after a nearly eight-week absence, carrying a torrent of ideas, proposals and frustrations over work that has stalled when the Republican speaker shuttered the House doors nearly two months ago.
First will be a vote to reopen the government. But that’s just the start. With efforts to release the Jeffrey Epstein files and the swearing in of Arizona’s Rep.elect Adelita Grijalva, the unfinished
than those of the Iberian nation of 49.4 million people to China, which has a population of more than 1.4 billion.
business will pose a fresh test to Johnson’s grip on power and put a renewed focus on his leadership.
“It’s extraordinary,” said Matthew Green, a professor at the politics department at The Catholic University of America.
“What Speaker Johnson and Republicans are doing, you have to go back decades to find an example where the House—either chamber—decided not to meet.”
Gaveling in after two months gone WHEN the House gavels back into session, it will close this remarkable chapter of Johnson’s tenure when he showed himself to be a leader who is quietly, but brazenly, willing to upend institutional norms in pursuit of his broader strategy, even at the risk of diminishing the House itself.
Rather than use the immense powers of the speaker’s office to forcefully
After meeting with Xi in April, Sánchez said Spain was in favor of “more balanced relations between the European Union and China.” The EU negotiates trade terms on behalf of all 27 member countries.
The last time a Spanish monarch visited China on an official state trip was in 2007. Xi last visited Spain in 2018. Spain generated more than half of its electricity last year from renewable sources, and needs Chinese critical raw materials, solar panels and green technologies in its transition away from fossil fuels, similar to other EU countries.
Xi said both sides could further explore cooperation in renewable energy and
steer the debate in Congress, as a coequal branch of the government on par with the executive and the courts, Johnson simply closed up shop—allowing the House to become unusually deferential, particularly to President Donald Trump.
Over these past weeks, the chamber has sidestepped its basic responsibilities, from passing routine legislation to conducting oversight. The silencing of the speaker’s gavel has been both unusual and surprising in a system of government where the founders envisioned the branches would vigorously protect their institutional prerogatives.
“You can see it is pretty empty around here,” Johnson, R-La., said on day three of the shutdown, tour groups no longer crowding the halls.
“When Congress decides to turn off the lights, it shifts the authority to the executive branch. That is how it works,” he said, blaming Democrats, with their fight over health care funds, for the closures.
artificial intelligence. Last year, Chinese electric battery company CATL announced a joint venture with automaker Stellantis to build a battery factory in northern Spain. That followed deals between Spain and Chinese companies Envision and Hygreen Energy to build green hydrogen infrastructure in the country.
Masked Israeli settlers attack 2 Palestinian villages in West Bank
By Josef Federman, Shlomo Mor & Melanie Lidman
The Associated Press
JERUSALEM—Dozens of masked Israeli settlers attacked a pair of Palestinian villages in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday, setting fire to vehicles and other property before clashing with Israeli soldiers sent to halt the rampage, Israeli and Palestinian officials said. It was the latest in a series of attacks by young settlers in the West Bank.
Israeli police said four Israelis were arrested in what it described as “extremist violence,”
An empty House as a political strategy THE speaker has defended his decision to
See “Johnson,” A11
Hadar Goldin was a moment of closure for his family, which had traveled the world in a public campaign seeking his return. The huge turnout also reflected the importance for the broader public in Israel, where Goldin became a household name.
Hamas returned his remains on Sunday as part of the US-brokered ceasefire deal that began last month. The bodies of four hostages taken in the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, are still in Gaza.
Settler violence in the West Bank THE UN humanitarian office last week reported more Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank in October than in any other month since it began keeping track in 2006. There were over 260 attacks, the office said.
Palestinians and human rights workers accuse the Israeli army and police of failing to halt attacks by settlers. Israel’s government is dominated by West Bank settlers, and the police force is overseen by Cabinet minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, a hardline settler leader.
In Tuesday’s incident, the army said soldiers initially responded to settler attacks in the villages of Beit Lid and Deir Sharaf. It said the settlers fled to a nearby industrial zone and attacked soldiers sent to the scene and damaged a military vehicle.
Palestinian official Muayyad Shaaban, who heads the government’s Commission against the Wall and Settlements, said the settlers set fire to four dairy trucks, farmland, tin shacks and tents belonging to a Bedouin community.
He said the attacks were part of a campaign to drive Palestinians from their land and accused Israel of giving the settlers protection and immunity. He called for sanctions against groups that “sponsor and support the colonial settlement terrorism project.”
French President Emmanuel Macron denounced the
See “Israel,” A11
PRESIDENT Donald Trump speaks during an event to mark Veterans Day at Arlington National Cemetery, Tuesday, Nov.
Arlington, Va. AP/EVAN VUCCI
A10 Thursday, November 13, 2025
China, Brazil aim to be climate leaders and keep polluting too
By Coco Liu and Lili Pike
BRAZIL President Luiz Inacio
Lula da Silva flexed his country’s green credentials last week when he had world leaders escorted to this year’s climate summit, hosted in the Amazonian city of Belém, by a fleet of custom-made electric vehicles.
But his entreaty as host of COP30 to “end dependence on fossil fuel” jarred with his simultaneous call to fund Brazil’s energy transition through the continued expansion of its oil industry.
China is deeply entwined in Brazil’s attempts to do both at the same time. It was China’s automakers that provided Lula with the squadron of sleek electric cars, and China’s state-owned oil company that won a sizable share of the exploration rights to the Amazonian oil.
Brazil and China have jointly championed climate action in recent years, as part of a move to reduce their own climate vulnerability and raise their international profiles. With US President Donald Trump withdrawing from global cooperation and the world seeking new sources of leadership, their moment has come. Yet the two countries offer a different tone — emphasizing the Global South’s right to develop and putting the onus on richer nations to achieve tougher emissions cuts.
The two nations’ continued development of oil “will affect their leadership” in COP30 negotiations to phase out fossil fuels, said Li Shuo, the director of China Climate Hub at the Asia Society Policy Institute. Their oil ties are only one entry in a mixed climate record that is bound to complicate talks in Belém.
“The Brazil–China relationship is one to watch at COP30,” Li said. “In Belém, it is no exaggeration to
say that if this pair chooses to steer the deal in a particular direction, the rest of the room will follow.”
For those seeking to make sense of China and Brazil’s complex approach to climate action, and what it means for COP30 and beyond, here’s what you need to know.
China helped make Brazil a clean-energy king AT the top of the two countries’ shared achievements is Brazil’s clean-energy buildout. Brazil stands out in the G20 as the country with by far the greenest grid. As recently as 2023, 89% of its electricity came from renewable energy, with Chinese investment and technology playing a meaningful role in that green success story. Brazil was home to the most power capacity financed by Beijing
as of 2022, the latest year that data was analyzed by Boston University’s Global Development Policy Center. For the most part, that investment has involved Chinese state-owned enterprises backing Brazil’s hydropower dams. More recently, Chinese companies have expanded their investment into solar and wind projects in the Latin American nation, signing deals worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
“Green energy in Brazil is being driven in no small part by Chinese direct investors,” said Rebecca Ray, a senior academic researcher at the Global Development Policy Center.
Brazil’s installed solar capacity grew more than six-fold from 2020 to 2024, and Chinese solarpanel imports accounted for the lion’s share of that boom, almost 100% in 2024, according to analysts at BloombergNEF. And when it comes to connecting all of these new-energy sources, the State Grid Corporation of China has been all over the Brazilian map, installing conventional and ultrahigh voltage transmission lines.
The latest major development in the two countries’ clean-energy partnership is the opening of BYD Co.’s new electric-vehicle factory in Bahia. The Chinese carmaker now dominates the Brazilian market, accounting for 86% of EV sales last year.
SNAP delays during shutdown hurt
By Dee-Ann Durbin AP Business Writer
AThere has been friction along the way, with Brazil’s imposition of tariffs to help increase domestic clean-energy manufacturing and labor issues at the BYD factory.
But the speed and scale of Brazil’s green transition to date wouldn’t have been possible without the investment and imports it has received from China.
China also quietly became Brazil’s oil buddy AND then there is China’s deepening oil partnership with Brazil. So far this year, China ranks as the leading buyer of Brazil’s crude oil, accounting for almost 45% of its total oil export by volume. The US is a distant second, at almost 11%.
Meanwhile, Chinese stateowned companies have invested heavily in Brazil’s oil exploration and production, a move that China National Petroleum Corp. said has helped boost its profitability and also serves Beijing’s interest in strengthening its relations with so-called BRICS states, which include Brazil. Crude oil replaced soybeans to become Brazil’s top export commodity in 2024 and the Lula administration is seeking to further raise the country’s profile in the global oil trade. Just months before COP30, the government approved joining Opec+, a group
of major oil-exporting nations, as an observer.
“China had a huge role in transforming Brazil into an oil giant,” said Pedro Henrique Batista Barbosa, a Brazilian diplomat and author of the book “China, Brazil and Petroleum — The Role of China in Brazil’s Transformation into an Oil Power,” during a panel discussion in September. Chinese investment in the Brazilian oil industry reached $1 billion last year, equal to one-quarter of its total investment in the country, according to a report by the nonprofit Brazil-China Business Council. And with orders continuing to come from China, Brazil’s oil exports are “consistently high” and expected to rise over the next few years, Barbosa said. Brazil is pushing to open new frontiers, including the auctioning last summer of oil reserves near the ecologically-sensitive mouth of the Amazon River. The Brazilian Amazon is estimated to have the potential to produce as many as 60 billion barrels of oil. If all burned, that would release up to 24 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, or nearly half of global emissions in 2023, warns the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, an environmental campaign group.
Chinese supply chains drive deforestation, but that’s starting to change EVEN more than energy, the agricultural sector has been the largest stain on Brazil and China’s shared climate record over the past decade. China is the top importer of Brazilian soybeans and beef, two key drivers of deforestation, which in turn accounts for about half of Brazil’s emissions.
Still, China’s government and large Chinese importers have been taking more concrete action. In 2023, China and Brazil committed to eliminating illegal deforestation, and in the same year Chinese state-owned agriculture giant COFCO International and a subsidiary of Mengniu Group, the Chinese dairy heavyweight, signed the first agreement in China to purchase deforestation-andconversion free (DCF) soybeans, meaning that no natural habitat or forest is converted to farmland to grow the crop. COFCO International subsequently moved up its global target for achieving a DCF soy supply chain to 2025.
The Tianjin Meat Association also recently pledged to import 50,000 tons of deforestation-free beef from Brazil through a new certificate program.
“I think it’s really at the start of this increasing demand in China,” said Isabel Nepstad, founder of Shanghai-based BellaTerra Consulting. Chinese companies are seeking to meet the country’s climate goals, as well as facing pressure on the issue from financial institutions.
The Tropical Forest Forever Facility, one of Brazil’s flagship initiatives at COP30, has so far won pledges of more than $5 billion for a plan which aims to pay poorer nations if they meet deforestation control targets. While China has supported the TFFF in principle, the country has decided against contributing to the rainforest conservation fund, a move that reflects the limits of climate leadership. With assistance from Fabiano Maisonnave/Bloomberg
local grocers and customers
alike
But these days, Sprankle would have a different message if Trump or any lawmakers visited his store. He wants them to know that delayed SNAP benefits during the government shutdown hurt his customers and his small, independent chain.
“You can’t take away from the
LITTLE more than a year ago, Ryan Sprankle welcomed President Donald Trump to one of the three grocery stores his family owns near Pittsburgh. Trump was on the campaign trail; they talked about high grocery prices, and the Republican nominee picked up a bag of popcorn.
neediest people in the country. It’s inhumane,” Sprankle said. “It’s a lack of empathy and it’s on all their hands.
The Trump administration froze funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program at the end of October, impacting food access for some 42 million Americans. On Monday, the U.S. Senate passed legislation that would reopen the federal government and replenish SNAP funds, but the US House of Representatives still must consider the bill. It’s unclear when SNAP payments might resume if the government reopens.
In 2024, SNAP recipients redeemed a little more than $96 billion in benefits, according to the US Department of Agriculture, which administers the program.
The majority—74%—was spent at superstores and supermarkets, a category that includes big chains like Walmart and Kroger but also some independent stores like Sprankle’s.
Around 14% was spent at smaller grocery and convenience stores, businesses often tucked into neighborhoods and more easily accessible to SNAP beneficiaries.
A stalled economic engine
ETHARIN COUSIN , a former director of the United Nations World Food Program and founder of the nonprofit Food Systems for the Future, said the cutoff
of SNAP benefits had immediate impacts on grocers and convenience stores of all sizes, most of which operate on slim profit margins of 1% to 2%.
“SNAP isn’t just a social safety net for families. It’s also a local economic engine,” Cousin said. “SNAP benefits flow directly into neighborhoods, stores, regional distributors and community jobs.”
Walmart declined to comment on the impact of the SNAP funding lapse but noted that it has been lowering prices and donating to local food banks. Kroger also declined to comment.
Shoppers not receiving their food benefits affects all retailers but becomes “a big problem more quickly” at small chains, Sprankle said. His Kittanning, Pennsylvania store gets 25% of its revenue from SNAP, but customers who don’t get government assistance also are worried about the shutdown, according to Sprankle. They’re spending less, trading down to cheaper goods or heading to food banks, he said.
Sprankle said lower sales cut into the overtime he can offer to the chain’s 140 employees. Many are worried about losing their jobs, he said.
“They have families to feed, they have kids for buy gifts for,” he said. “If I have to sell my truck, we’re going to give Christmas bonuses.”
Liz Abunaw, the owner and operator of Forty Acres Fresh Market in Chicago, recently saw a customer putting back a full cart of groceries because she couldn’t afford them without SNAP.
Abunaw opened the supermarket in September after years spent selling produce at pop-up markets and in delivery boxes. Only about 12% of Abunaw’s revenue comes from SNAP benefits right now, she said. But without it—or if SNAP recipients spend less money in her store—it will slow Forty Acres’ growth and make it harder to pay the workers, suppliers and farmers who depend on her, she said.
“SNAP is currency. I get money I then use in this economy. It’s not a food box,” Abunaw said. “The economic impact of SNAP is larger than the dollars spent.”
From neighborhood shops to food pantries
THE suspended food aid also had an immediate impact on Kanbe’s Markets, a nonprofit that stocks produce in coolers at 110 convenience stores around Kansas City, Missouri. Kanbe’s distributes a mixture of donated food and food purchased from wholesalers to keep prices low, founder and CEO Maxfield Kaniger said.
Kanbe’s also distributes free food to 50 food pantries and soup kitchens around the city.
Kaniger said some of the convenience stores he works with saw
their sales drop 10% in the days after Nov. 1, when SNAP benefits weren’t paid. At the same time, the food pantries he supplies asked for double or triple their usual orders. Because it’s giving away more food than usual, Kanbe’s has to spend more buying produce for the coolers it stocks. It’s frustrating for Kaniger, who must make decisions quickly before food spoils.
“It should be enough that people are going without food. Period, end of sentence. People going without food is wrong,” he said. Babir Sultan sells berries, lemons, potatoes, bananas and other produce from Kanbe’s at his four FavTrip convenience stores in the Kansas City area. His stores are in food deserts, far from other groceries or big retailers, he said, so it’s important to him to stock fresh produce for those neighborhoods. Sultan said foot traffic at his stores fell 8% to 10% in early November after SNAP funding ceased. He decided to offer $10 of free produce to SNAP beneficiaries but said he’s also happy to help out other customers who might be struggling right now.
“If you’re in need, just ask, we’ll take care of you,” Sultan said. “Everybody is affected whenever the customer is feeling the pinch.”
Durbin reported from Detroit. Associated Press data journalist Kasturi Pananjady in Philadelphia contributed to this report.
A BUYER inspects cattle on a farm in Sao Felix do Xingu, Para state, Brazil. JONNE RORIZ/BLOOMBERG
Europe on edge: Danish companies ramp up anti-drone production amid security threats
By James Brooks The Associated Press
AALBORG, Denmark—In a warehouse more than 1,500 kilometers (900 miles) from Ukraine’s capital, workers in northern Denmark painstakingly piece together anti-drone devices. Some of the devices will be exported to Kyiv in the hopes of jamming Russian technology on the battlefield, while others will be shipped across Europe in efforts to combat mysterious drone intrusions into NATO’s airspace that have the entire continent on edge.
Two Danish companies whose business was predominantly defense-related now say they have a surge in new clients seeking to use their technology to protect sites like airports, military installations and critical infrastructure, all of which have been targeted by drone flyovers in recent weeks.
Weibel Scientific’s radar drone detection technology was deployed ahead of a key EU summit earlier this year to Copenhagen Airport, where unidentified drone sightings closed the airspace for hours in September. Counter-drone firm MyDefence, from its warehouse in northern Denmark, builds handheld, wearable radio frequency devices that sever the connection between a drone and its pilot to neutralize the threat.
So-called “jamming” is restricted and heavily regulated in the European Union, but widespread on the battlefields of Ukraine and has become so extensive there that Russia and Ukraine have started deploying drones tethered by thin fiber-optic cables that don’t rely on radio frequency signals. Russia also is firing attack drones with extra antenna to
foil Ukraine’s jamming efforts.
A spike in drone incursions
DRONE warfare exploded following Russia’s fullscale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Russia has bombarded Ukraine with drone and missile attacks, striking railways, power facilities and cities across the country. Ukraine, in response, has launched daring strikes deep inside Russia using domestically produced drones.
But Europe as a whole is now on high alert after the drone flyovers into NATO’s airspace reached an unprecedented scale in September, prompting European leaders to agree to develop a “drone wall” along their borders to better detect, track and intercept drones violating Europe’s airspace.
In November, NATO military officials said a new US anti-drone system was deployed to the alliance’s eastern flank.
Some European officials described the incidents as Moscow testing NATO’s response, which raised questions about how prepared the alliance is against Russia. Key challenges include the ability to detect drones—sometimes mistaken for a bird or plane on radar systems—and take them down cheaply.
The Kremlin has brushed off allegations that Russia is behind some of the unidentified drone flights in Europe.
Andreas Graae, assistant professor at the Royal Danish Defense College, said there is a “huge drive” to rapidly deploy counter-drone systems in Europe amid Russia’s aggression.
“All countries in Europe are struggling to find the right solutions to be prepared for these new drone challenges,” he said. “We don’t have all the
things that are needed to actually be good enough to detect drones and have early warning systems.”
Putting ‘machines before people’ FOUNDED in 2013, MyDefence makes devices that can be used to protect airports, government buildings and other critical infrastructure, but chief executive Dan Hermansen called the Russia-Ukraine war a “turning point” for his company.
More than 2,000 units of its wearable “Wingman” detector have been delivered to Ukraine since Russia invaded nearly four years ago.
“For the past couple of years, we’ve heard in Ukraine that they want to put machines before people” to save lives, Hermansen said.
MyDefence last year doubled its earnings to roughly $18.7 million compared to 2023.
Then came the drone flyovers earlier this year. Besides Copenhagen Airport, drones flew over four smaller Danish airports, including two that serve as military bases.
Hermansen said they were an “eye-opener” for many European countries and prompted a surge of interest in their technology. MyDefence went from the vast majority of its business being defenserelated to inquiries from officials representing police forces and critical infrastructure.
“Seeing suddenly that drone warfare is not just something that happens in Ukraine or on the eastern flank, but basically is something that we need to take care of in a hybrid warfare threat scenario,” he added.
Radar technology used against drones ON NATO’s eastern flank, Denmark, Poland and
Romania are deploying a new weapons system to defend against drones. The American Merops system, which is small enough to fit in the back of a midsize pickup truck, can identify drones and close in on them using artificial intelligence to navigate when satellite and electronic communications are jammed.
The aim is to make the border with Russia so wellarmed that Moscow’s forces will be deterred from ever contemplating crossing the line from Norway in the north to Turkey in the south, NATO military officials told The Associated Press.
North of Copenhagen, Weibel Scientific has been making Doppler radar technology since the 1970s. Typically used in tracking radar systems for the aerospace industry, it’s now being applied to drone detection like at Copenhagen Airport.
The technology can determine the velocity of an object, such as a drone, based on the change in wavelength of a signal being bounced back. Then it’s possible to predict the direction the object is moving, Weibel Scientific chief executive Peter Røpke said.
“The Ukraine war, and especially how it has evolved over the last couple of years with drone technology, means this type of product is in high demand,” Røpke said.
Earlier this year, Weibel secured a $76 million deal, which the firm called its “largest order ever.”
The drone flyovers boosted the demand even higher as discussion around the proposed “drone wall” continued. Røpke said his technology could become a “key component” of any future drone shield.
Stefanie Dazio in Berlin contributed to this report.
UK government defends BBC amid bias claims and Trump’s lawsuit threat over edited speech
By Jill Lawless The Associated Press
LONDON—Britain’s government rallied to the defense of the BBC on Tuesday after allegations of bias from its critics and the threat of a lawsuit from US President Donald Trump over the way the broadcaster edited a speech he made after losing the 2020 presidential election
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the national broadcaster faces “challenges, some of its own making,” but is “by far the most widely used and trusted source of news in the United Kingdom.”
With critics in media and politics demanding an overhaul of the BBC’s funding and governance, Nandy said that “the BBC as an institution is absolutely essential to this country.
“At a time when the lines are being dangerously blurred between facts and opinions, news and polemic, the BBC stands apart,” she said in the House of Commons.
Trump threatens to sue
A LAWYER for Trump is demanding a retraction, apology and compensation from the broadcaster over the allegedly defamatory sequence in a documentary broadcast last year.
Fallout from the documentary has already claimed the BBC’s top executive, Tim Davie, and head
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shutter the House during what’s now the longest government shutdown in US history. He argued that the chamber, under the GOP majority, had already done its job passing a stopgap funding bill in September. It would be up to the Senate to act, he said.
When the Senate failed over and over to advance the House bill, more than a dozen times, he refused to enter talks with the other leaders on a compromise. Johnson also encouraged Trump to cancel an initial sit-down with the Democratic leaders Sen. Chuck Schumer and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries to avoid a broader negotiation while the government was still closed.
Instead, the speaker, whose job is outlined in the Constitution, second in line of succession to the presidency, held almost daily press conferences on his side of the Capitol, a weekly conference call with GOP lawmakers, and private talks with Trump. He joined the president for Sunday’s NFL Washington Commanders game as the Senate was slogging through a weekend session.
“People say, why aren’t you negotiating with Schumer and Jeffries? I quite literally have nothing to negotiate,” Johnson said at one point.
“As I’ve said time and time again, I don’t have anything to negotiate with,” he said on day 13 of the shutdown. “We did our job. We had that vote.”
of news Deborah Turness, who both resigned over what the broadcaster called an “error of judgment.”
The BBC has apologized for misleading editing of a speech Trump delivered on Jan. 6, 2021, before a crowd of his supporters stormed the Capitol in Washington.
Broadcast days before the November 2024 US election, the documentary “Trump: A Second Chance?” spliced together three quotes from two sections of the speech, delivered almost an hour apart, into what appeared to be one quote in which Trump urged supporters to march with him and “fight like hell.”
Among the parts cut out was a section where Trump said he wanted supporters to demonstrate peacefully.
BBC chair Samir Shah said the broadcaster accepted “that the way the speech was edited did give the impression of a direct call for violent action.”
The BBC has not yet formally responded to the demand from Florida-based Trump attorney Alejandro Brito that it “retract the false, defamatory, disparaging and inflammatory statements,” apologize and “appropriately compensate President Trump for the harm caused” by Friday, or face legal action for $1 billion in damages.
Nigel Huddleston, media spokesman for the opposition Conservative Party, said the BBC should “provide a fulsome apology to the US president” to avoid legal action.
Legal experts say Trump is likely too late to sue
And besides he said of the GOP lawmakers, “They are doing some of their best work in the district, helping their constituents navigate this crisis.”
Accidental speaker delivers for Trump In many ways, Johnson has become a surprisingly effective leader, an accidental speaker who was elected to the job by his colleagues after all others failed to win it. He has now lasted more than two years, longer than many once envisioned.
This year, with Trump’s return to the White House, the speaker has commandeered his slim GOP majority and passed legislation including the president’s so-called “one big beautiful bill” of tax breaks and spending reductions that became law this summer.
Johnson’s shutdown strategy also largely achieved his goal, forcing Senate Democrats to break ranks and approve the funds to reopen government without the extension of health care subsidies they were demanding to help ease the sticker shock of rising insurance premium costs with the Affordable Care Act.
Johnson’s approach is seen as one that manages up—he stays close to Trump and says they speak often—and also hammers down, imposing a rigid control over the day-to-day schedule of the House, and its lawmakers.
Amassing quiet power
Under a House rules change this year, Johnson was able to keep the chamber shuttered indefinitely
the BBC in Britain, because a one-year deadline to file a defamation suit has expired. He could still bring a defamation claim in several US states, and his lawyer cited Florida law in a letter to the BBC, but faces considerable legal hurdles.
An embattled national institution THE publicly funded BBC is a century-old national institution under growing pressure in an era of polarized politics and changing media viewing habits.
Funded through an annual license fee of 174.50 pounds ($230) paid by all households who watch live TV or any BBC content, the broadcaster is frequently a political football, with conservatives seeing a leftist slant in its news output and some liberals accusing it of having a conservative bias. Governments of both left and right have long been accused of meddling with the broadcaster, which is overseen by a board that includes both BBC nominees and government appointees.
Some defenders of the BBC allege that board members appointed under previous Conservative governments have been undermining the corporation from within.
Pressure on the broadcaster has been growing since the right-leaning Daily Telegraph published parts of a dossier compiled by Michael Prescott, who had been hired to advise the BBC on standards and
on his own, without the usual required vote. This year his leadership team has allowed fewer opportunities for amendments on legislation, according to a recent tally. Other changes have curtailed the House’s ability to provide a robust check on the executive branch over Trump’s tariffs and use of war powers.
Johnson’s refusal to swear-in Grijalva is a remarkable flex of the speaker’s power, leading to comparisons with Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision not to consider President Barack Obama’s Supreme Court nominee, said David Rapallo, an associate professor and director of the Federal Legislation Clinic at Georgetown University Law Center. Arizona has sued to seat her.
Marc Short, who headed up the White House’s legislative affairs office during the first Trump administration, said of Johnson, “It’s impressive how he’s held the conference together.”
But said Short, “The legislative branch has abdicated a lot of responsibility to the executive under his watch.”
Tough decisions ahead for the Speaker As lawmakers make their way back to Washington, the speaker’s power will be tested again as they consider the package to reopen government.
Republicans are certain to have complaints about the bill, which funds much of the federal government through Jan. 30 and keeps certain programs including agriculture, military construction and veterans affairs running through September.
.
attacks during his meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Paris on Tuesday, saying that “settler violence and the acceleration of settlement projects are reaching new heights, threatening the stability of the West Bank.”
Palestinians in Gaza still struggling to access food
DISPLACED Palestinians in central Gaza said they continue to rely heavily on charity kitchens for their only daily meal, as soaring market prices and the lack of income leave them struggling.
Scores of people, most of them children, lined up with empty pots at a charity kitchen in Nuseirat refugee camp on Tuesday waiting to be served rice—the only food available that day.
“The rockets and planes stopped but increasing living costs has been the hardest weapon used against us,” said Mohamed al-Naqlah, a displaced Palestinian. On Tuesday, Gaza’s Health Ministry said the number of Palestinians killed in Gaza has risen to 69,182. Its count, generally considered by independent experts as reliable, does not distinguish between militants and civilians, but the ministry says more than half of those killed were women and children.
The latest war began with the 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel when around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed, and 251 people were kidnapped.
Close adviser to Netanyahu resigns
CABINET Minister Ron Dermer, one of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s closest confidants, announced his resignation on Tuesday, citing family reasons.
In a letter, Dermer said he had promised his family to serve two years but extended his term by an additional year to deal with Iran’s nuclear program and “to end the war in Gaza on Israel’s terms and bring our hostages home.”
The US-born Dermer is a former Israeli ambassador to Washington. As strategic affairs minister, he served as Netanyahu’s envoy throughout the war in dealing with the United States and ceasefire negotiations.
guidelines. As well as the Trump edit, Prescott criticized the BBC’s coverage of transgender issues and raised concerns of anti-Israel bias in the BBC’s Arabic service.
Near the BBC’s London headquarters, some passersby said the scandal would further erode trust in a broadcaster already under pressure.
Amanda Carey, a semi-retired lawyer, said the editing of the Trump speech is “something that should never have happened.”
“The last few scandals that they’ve had, trust in the BBC is very much waning and a number of people are saying they’re going to refuse to pay the license (fee),” she said.
A growing number of people argue that the license fee is unsustainable in a world where many households watch little or no traditional TV.
Nandy said the government will soon start the once-a-decade process of reviewing the BBC’s governing charter, which expires at the end of 2027. She said the government would ensure the BBC is “sustainably funded (and) commands the public’s trust,” but did not say whether the license fee might be scaled back or scrapped.
Davie, who announced his resignation as BBC director-general on Sunday, acknowledged that “we have made some mistakes that have cost us.”
But, he added: “We’ve got to fight for our journalism.”
The Associated Press journalist Kwiyeon Ha contributed to this story.
Funeral for soldier whose remains were held 11 years
GOLDIN was 23 when he was killed two hours after a ceasefire took effect in the 2014 war between Israel and Hamas. For years before the 2023 attack, posters with the faces of Goldin and Oron Shaul, another soldier whose body was abducted in the 2014 war, stared down from intersections.
Israel’s military long ago determined that Goldin had been killed based on evidence found in the tunnel where his body was taken, including a blood-soaked shirt and prayer fringes. On Tuesday, it announced it had dismantled the tunnel shaft where his body was found. The military retrieved Shaul’s body in January.
Eulogies from Goldin’s siblings, parents, and former fiancée at his funeral never mentioned Netanyahu, who was prime minister when Goldin was kidnapped and for most of the period since. They thanked the Israeli military, including reserve soldiers, who tirelessly searched for Goldin’s body over the years.
Netanyahu did not attend the funeral, though Israel’s military chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, gave a eulogy on behalf of the military.
Mor reported from Kfar Saba, Israel. Lidman reported from Tel Aviv, Israel. Associated Press reporters Julia Frankel and Ibrahim Hazboun in Jerusalem, and Fatma Khaled in Cairo, contributed to this report.
Gaza war trauma: Israeli veterans find solace in animal therapy amid mental health struggles
By Sam Mednick The Associated Press
SDOT YAM, Israel—Wrapped tightly around his forearms, the former Israeli soldier feels the snakes’ cold skin against his, and for a moment he’s able to breathe.
It’s been nearly 18 months since he left the army after fighting in the war in Gaza, and the flashbacks and panic attacks haven’t ceased. He was wounded in a Hamas missile attack on his military base, and said two of his friends—also soldiers in their 20s—died by suicide. This farm in central Israel dedicated to helping soldiers has been a lifeline, he said.
“It doesn’t matter if a plane goes by or if the drone goes by or if someone is yelling. ... Because I’m here with the snake right now,” said the 27-year-old sergeant major, who called the experience grounding. Like other soldiers who spoke to The Associated Press, he insisted on anonymity to discuss private mental health matters.
Israel’s longest war is leaving a trail of traumatized soldiers, with a growing number suffering from mental health illnesses after two years of war with Hamas. Reports of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and other mental health problems are increasing among soldiers, as are suicides.
Israel’s defense ministry says it has documented nearly 11,000
soldiers suffering from “mental health injuries” since the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack that triggered the war in Gaza. That accounts for more than a third of the total 31,000 troops with such injuries in all of Israel’s conflicts since its founding nearly 80 years ago. The ministry defines mental health injuries as PTSD, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
Suicides have also spiked. In the decade preceding the war, the number of soldiers taking their own lives in the army averaged 13 per year. Since the war, the number has risen, with 21 soldiers dying by suicide last year, according to the army. The figures—which account for active duty and reserve troops—don’t include soldiers who took their own lives after leaving the military.
A report published by Israel’s parliament last month said an additional 279 soldiers tried to take their own lives from January 2024 through July 2025 but survived.
“There’s now a genuine understanding that psychological injuries have profound consequences and that treatment is both necessary and practical,” said Limor Luria, deputy director general and head of the defense ministry’s Rehabilitation Department.
“We’re seeing a generational difference,” she said. “While many wounded veterans from previous wars never sought help, today’s wounded are responding very differently.”
The army is scrambling to address the crisis, mobilizing hundreds of mental health officers.
It has sent experts to the front lines to help soldiers during combat, established a hotline and provided group therapy sessions to fighters once they’ve left service.
Yet experts warn Israel is not yet equipped to deal with the scale—a gap the rehabilitation department acknowledged, saying it impacts the entire national health system.
The length and intensity of this war on multiple fronts—with tens of thousands of active duty and reserve troops called up for repeated deployments—haven’t allowed soldiers to properly heal, which could have long-term consequences for the country, said Tuly Flint, a trauma therapy specialist who has counseled hundreds of Israeli soldiers.
“Those victims of war, if not treated, lose the potential for personal and social development possible for them and may become a burden on themselves, their families and society,” he said.
Half a dozen soldiers who spoke to the AP, as well as psychologists who have treated fighters, said they lacked purpose, had difficulty concentrating or having relationships, and as the war dragged on, a sense of hopelessness set in.
Flint said some also suffered from what he called “moral injury.”
“Soldiers come back asking themselves who are they after
what they’ve seen and done, what kind of people are they?” he said. Rescue animals help soldiers heal
THE 27-year-old former soldier, who worked as a radio technician for about six months at the start of the war, said he came to the farm earlier this year because he felt lost.
A missile struck his base on the border with Gaza, badly injuring his back. After that, he was anxious, triggered by noise, constantly on edge.
“Everything got louder, like my aggressions, my yelling, my feelings, everything just went up,” he said—as though “someone broke the volume.”
He’s receiving therapy from the army, but the farm has allowed him to heal in a different way, surrounded by others with similar experiences and allowing him to calm his mind by focusing on the animals, he said.
Nestled in the Sdot Yam kibbutz, the Back2Life farm is among several grassroots organizations stepping in to support the growing number of soldiers needing help. It was co-founded by Assi Nave and dedicated to his friend from an elite military unit, Amir (Dani) Yardenai, who suffered severe PTSD for years after fighting in Gaza in 2014, and died by suicide last year.
“Dani’s loss left me with the
sense that he’s not the last one,” Nave said.
The farm has become an oasis for dozens of veterans who have participated in its sessions— which in addition to traditional counseling includes therapy with dogs and other animals—to the backdrop of chirping birds and clucking chickens. Former soldiers work with rescue animals, each helping the other to heal.
Psychologist Guy Fluman, who works with former soldiers and is among the mental health experts advising the farm on therapeutic approaches, said a major challenge veterans face is readjusting to civilian life and being with animals is grounding.
“You need to help them resolve their memories, be able to live in peace with what has happened... and on the other hand to reconnect them to life,” he said.
Stigma persists
ONE 31-year-old deployed in Gaza and the West Bank for a year said upon returning home everything was a struggle: His relationship ended and he had difficulty connecting with family and friends.
“I felt like I was back there,” he said “My body is here, but my mind is not.”
He was among several veterans who told the AP he suffered from mental illness for years, triggered by fighting in Israel’s previous wars, yet this was the first time he
felt comfortable seeking support.
“Stigma around mental health persists” among soldiers, acknowledged Luria, the rehabilitation program director. “Combating this stigma is a top priority.”
“We’re addressing it on multiple fronts,” including public campaigns and media outreach, she said, as well as programs designed to engage younger veterans, like rehabilitation farms and adventure sports.
A 32-year-old reservist who was assigned to collect bodies in southern Israel after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack in which some 1,200 people were killed and 251 were taken hostage said his flashbacks were less connected to the sight of the decaying men and women but to the smell.
“I started to smell dead bodies... all the time,” he said. He’d get triggered changing his child’s diaper. A therapist himself, he recognized the signs and sought help for PTSD. He then started working with others to help with the army’s growing need. He said the best way for soldiers to come forward is for their commanders on the ground to let them know that it’s OK.
“When the commander of the soldier says you can get help,” he said, “it works better and you have less stigma.”
Natalie Melzer in Tel Aviv, Israel, contributed to this report.
UN warns aid to Sudan’s Darfur on brink of collapse without funds and safe access
By Noha Elhennawy The Associated Press
CAIRO—The UN migration agency warned on Tuesday that humanitarian efforts in Sudan’s war-torn North Darfur region might come to a complete halt unless immediate funding and safe delivery of relief supplies are ensured.
“Despite the rising need, humanitarian operations are now on the brink of collapse,” the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said in a statement. It added: “Warehouses are nearly empty, aid convoys face significant insecurity, and access restrictions continue to prevent the delivery of sufficient aid.”
The IOM said more funding is needed to ease the humanitarian impact of the war between the Sudanese army and its rival, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The agency warned of “an even greater catastrophe” if its appeal went unheeded.
Diabetes. . .
“Our teams are responding, but insecurity and depleted supplies mean we are only reaching a fraction of those in need,” IOM Director General Amy Pope said in a statement.
Pope is in Sudan and UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher arrived Tuesday in Port Sudan where he met with authorities, the UN’s humanitarian partners and the diplomatic community, UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said. The RSF’s recent capture of North Darfur’s capital, el-Fasher, left hundreds dead and forced tens of thousands of people to flee reported atrocities by the paramilitary force, according to aid groups and U.N. officials. The IOM said nearly 9O,000 people have left el-Fasher and surrounding villages, undertaking a perilous journey through unsafe routes where they have no access to food, water or medical assistance.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs warned that the situation in North Darfur “remains volatile” following the RSF takeover, stressing that while large-scale
Continued from A1 limited access to healthy food choices, which often leads workers to rely on convenient but
clashes have subsided, “sporadic fighting and drone activity persist, leaving civilians at risk of looting, forced recruitment and gender-based
unhealthy snacks, as well as smoking, are additional factors that can heighten diabetes risk.
“So really, there are studies that if there is an abnormal circadian rhythm, the BPOs are at risk, not only of diabetes but also hypertension,” he emphasized.
The BPO sector is a major part of the Philippine economy, employing an estimated 1.3 million people across more than 1,000 companies in 2019. The industry has been growing at 8 to 10 percent annually and contributes nearly $30 billion to the economy each year.
Globally, the International Diabetes Federation reports that seven in 10 people living with diabetes are of working age. Among them, three in four have experienced anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions linked to their diabetes, while four in five report “diabetes burnout,” a state of emotional and physical exhaustion related
violence,” Haq said.
Tens of thousands have arrived at overcrowded displacement camps in Tawila,
to managing the condition.
According to Dr. Fatma Tiu, president of Diabetes Philippines, many employees living with diabetes are often overlooked, overworked, and misunderstood, even though most adults spend a large part of their day at work.
“Many continue working despite their condition, and sometimes they do not receive enough support or consideration from their workplace,” she said, noting that these employees often face stigma or discrimination, as if having diabetes is a weakness or a barrier to productivity.
“But the truth is, with the right care, understanding, and flexible support, they can perform just as well, if not better than others,” Dr. Tiu emphasized.
She added that supporting diabetic employees not only benefits the workers themselves but also strengthens business performance and contributes to the economy.
about 70 kilometers (43 miles) from el-Fasher.
In the camps, the displaced find themselves in barren areas with few tents and insufficient food and medical supplies.
‘The displaced are too many’
“WE have been getting little food from community kitchens here; we only get lunch meals,” Sohaiba Omar, 20, told The Associated Press from a shelter in Diba Nayra camp in Tawila.
“We also need a nearby source of water and toilets. Disposing of our wastes in the open can make us fall sick and catch diseases like cholera.”
Batoul Mohamed, a 25-year-old volunteer at the camp, said, “The displaced are too many. They are also hungry. It is very difficult to have people come up to us saying that they could not eat because there not was not enough food.”
“The true scale of the crisis is likely far worse than reported,” it said.
The violence has spread to other parts of Sudan including the regions of Western Darfur and Kordofan, forcing more people to flee. Nearly 39,000 people fled North Kordofan between Oct. 26 and Nov. 9, according to the IOM. The war between the RSF and the military began in 2023, when tensions erupted between the two former allies that were meant to oversee a democratic transition after a 2019 uprising. The fighting has killed at least 40,000 people, according to the World Health Organization, and displaced 12 million. Aid groups say the true death toll could be many times higher.
Edith M. Lederer contributed to this report from the United Nations
Aid group Doctors Without Borders warned that malnutrition in displacement camps has reached “staggering” rates. Over 70% of children under the age of 5 who reached Tawila between the fall of el-Fasher at the end of October and Nov. 3, were acutely malnourished, and more than a third experienced severe acute malnutrition, the group said Tuesday.
‘No-cost healthy workspaces’
DR . Tiu recommended that employers provide access to healthy food choices in office canteens and designated spaces for blood sugar monitoring or insulin injections for diabetic employees.
She also encouraged workplaces to allow employees flexibility in meal timing according to their medications and provide opportunities for physical activity, either individually or in groups.
Dr. Reynaldo Rosales, one of the trustees of the Diabetes Philippines, offered practical workplace interventions to promote better health. These include encouraging employees to use stairs instead of elevators, providing standing desks to reduce prolonged sitting, promoting calorie-labeled healthy meals, and incorporating short breaks for stretching and light exercise during office hours or conventions.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ma. Cynthia B. Sanchez, trustee of Diabetes Philippines, said graveyard shift workers can lower their risk of weight gain and other health problems by following time-restricted eating. This means eating only during an eight-hour period each day and fasting for the other 16 hours.
She explained that this method works with the body’s natural circadian rhythm, which controls when we should be awake, asleep, and eating.
“If we eat at night, we continue to burn glucose instead of fats. So we delay fat burning and that causes overweight and obesity,” she said.
She added that limiting meals to active hours can help maintain the circadian rhythm and support overall metabolic health.
“That can be done in the office. There’s no added cost for the management. Just management support and encouragement,” he said. “Giving employees time and space for a healthy, livable environment can make a significant difference.”
SUDANESE who fled el-Fasher city after Sudan’s paramilitary forces killed hundreds in the western Darfur region crowd to receive food at their camp in Tawila, Sudan, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025. AP/MOHAMMED ABAKER
DA: Cost of building FMRs may decline by 20%
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE Department of Agriculture (DA) said it expects to reduce by as much as 20 percent the cost of farm-to-market roads (FMR) once it takes over its construction from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) starting next year.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the agency could bring down the standard cost of building a kilometer of a concrete, two-lane FMR to at least P12 million from the current P15 million. The reduction in cost could be made through the agency’s internal management and use of new technologies, such as soil stabilizers, which are suitable in certain areas.
“If Congress allows us under the 2026 national budget, we can use those savings to build
more roads—helping farmers and fisherfolk cut production costs, reach markets faster, earn more, and ultimately lower food prices,” the DA chief said. Initially, the Marcos administration proposed a P16billion budget for FMR projects in 2026, which could roughly build 1,000 kilometers of rural roads.
However, the House of Representatives has doubled that to P32 billion, following the president’s directive to realign flood-control funds to priority
PHL rice variety beats Thailand in global contest
THE country’s aromatic Dinorado or Mabango has secured the silver award at the 2025 World’s Best Rice competition, an improvement from the Philippines’ third-place finish in last year’s contest.
The locally developed rice variety, NSIC Rc218, bested 27 of 30 global entries, including those from traditional rice-exporting countries such as Thailand, India and Australia.
Vietnam and Cambodia shared the top honor this year, with Vietnam’s ST25 and Cambodia’s Phka Rumdoul jointly taking the gold. ST25 is now a three-time titleholder, while Cambodia’s entries have won seven times since the award’s inception.
Developed in 2009 by the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute, Rc218 was bred for its tenderness, flavor and distinct aroma. It has gained popularity among consumers and small retailers nationwide for its fragrance and texture, earning the nickname “Mabango.”
The Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement (PRISM), which represented the country in the competition, said the silver win sustains the goal toward a “globally competitive rice industry.”
“This win isn’t just about quality... It’s about identity—a reminder that the Philippines is not only the world’s largest rice importer, but also a nation capable of producing world-class, sustainable, and export-worthy rice,” PRISM founder Rowena Sadicon said.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the achievement highlights the capacity of Filipino farmers and scientists to compete internationally.
“This is proof that our local producers can stand alongside the world’s best,” he said.
The event’s judges, led by Chef Robert Nieto, evaluated entries through a doubleblind taste test. It took place during the 2025 World Rice Conference organized by The Rice Trader from November 7 to 9 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Ma. Alyanna Selda and Ada Pelonia
agricultural infrastructure. With double the budget and cost-cutting measures in place, the DA said it aims to expedite market connectivity for rural producers, boosting farm
incomes while helping stabilize food prices for consumers.
To ensure transparency and speed, the DA chief said the agency will work closely with local governments, civil
society organizations, and the Philippine Army’s Corps of Engineers.
“We want every peso to go to real roads that benefit real farmers—not into the pockets of
corrupt officials.”
The DA said its master plan has identified about 131,000 kilometers of potential FMRs nationwide. Of this, around 70,000 kilometers have been completed.
At the current pace, however, the agency noted that full completion could take 60 years.
“We can cut that time in half with stronger coordination and smarter spending,” the DA chief said. “Every road we build brings us closer to making farming truly profitable and food more affordable for every Filipino.”
Last month, the DA accepted the Senate’s challenge to take the lead in FMR projects amid allegations of misuse of public funds in previous FMR schemes managed by the DPWH.
During a Senate hearing on the proposed budget of the agency, the DA chief announced the agency’s readiness to take over the construction of critical infrastructure aimed at promoting rural development, raising farmers’ incomes, and ensuring a steady supply of affordable food.
Organic farming a key public health strategy–lawmaker
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
ORGANIC agriculture can be a vital public health strategy to address the growing incidence of respiratory and lifestyle diseases among Filipinos, according to the chair of the Senate agriculture committee.
Senator Francis Pangilinan said naturally grown produce helps reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and promotes healthier communities—in a word, he stressed, fresh produce means healthy food and a healthy people.
In keynoting the 7th PH Natural & Organic Products Expo (PNOPEX) and the 11th Organic Agriculture Month kick-off, Pangilinan affirmed his advocacy for strengthening
organic farming as a sciencedriven and people-centered approach that safeguards both farmers and consumers.
“The nutrients, the vitamins and minerals, and of course, the enzymes that are quite sweet to the taste, are all there [in organic food]. We all know that organic food is not just nutritious but also delicious,” Pangilinan said, speaking partly in Filipino..
Drawing from his own journey as a long-time organic farmer, the senator shared how his experience managing a learning site in Cavite shaped his belief that healthy soil and chemical-free produce directly contribute to the well-being of families and communities.
“So, I can ensure the health of my children, I turned to organic vegetable farming.”
Organic agriculture not only improves health outcomes but it also enhances the livelihoods of farmers by reducing input costs and increasing market value, the senator added. The domestic organic market has expanded to billions of pesos, as more communities embrace organic farming and farmers gain the skills to cultivate sustainably.
Pangilinan, author of the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010, also highlighted the role of the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS), a community-based certification institutionalized under the said law. The PGS eliminates the costly process of third-party certification and enables small farmers to access local markets more easily, strengthening grassroots participation and ensuring
credibility in organic production.
Pangilinan also noted the need to protect the soil and ecosystems that sustain agriculture.
“When too much chemicals are used as pesticides and fertilizers, the soil dies. And when the soil is dead, the entire ecosystem is affected.”
Pangilinan urged both national and local governments to intensify their commitment to organic agriculture by expanding support systems, investing in farmer training, and institutionalizing programs that will make organic farming more accessible and sustainable across communities
“Let’s visit our organic farms and let us know how we can continue to support our country’s high-value crops sector.”
Palm oil set to soar as Indonesia’s biofuel push tightens supply
PALM oil is poised for a bullish run as Indonesia ramps up its biofuel ambitions, a move that is expected to slash supplies available for export from the world’s top producer and deepen a global squeeze.
Already a world leader in biofuels, the Southeast Asian nation plans to channel even more palm oil stocks toward expanding its domestic biodiesel mandate from 40 percent to 50 percent by the second half of next year. The so-called B50 program is part of Indonesia’s efforts to slash a hefty fuel import bill and greenhouse gas emissions all at once.
But the initiative—coupled with stagnating output growth in the world’s biggest producers—could drive up global prices, shift flows of vegetable oils, and even stoke food inflation if buyers are forced to seek costlier alternatives. The price of palm oil—used in everything from chocolate to cosmetics—has fluctuated in recent months as investors weigh swelling
stockpiles and uncertain demand, and is currently down 6 percent year-to-date at 4,145 ringgit ($999.61) a ton.
If the Indonesian government pushes ahead with B50, prices may climb to as high as 5,000 ringgit per ton in the January-June period, Eddy Martono, chairman of the Indonesian Palm Oil Association, or Gapki, told Bloomberg News ahead of an industry conference on the resort island of Bali this week.
On the domestic front, the policy could be followed by a hike in export levies, which will likely be borne by smallholders, he added.
On the global front, it means consumers may have to look elsewhere for supplies as Indonesia substantially curbs exports to achieve the higher biodiesel blend at home, according to Matthew Biggin, senior commodities analyst at BMI.
“It will require deliberate government intervention to prioritize domestic biodiesel production over exports, likely impacting
traditional importing markets, particularly India and China, who will need to source alternative supplies,” he said.
The timing of the program’s rollout will be crucial in determining the direction of the market, and will be closely watched at this week’s Gapkiled conference. Veteran trader Dorab Mistry, a director at Godrej International Ltd., had earlier forecast the move would drive palm prices to a three-year
high of 5,500 ringgit in the first quarter of 2026.
Indonesian authorities have completed laboratory tests for the B50 blend but road-safety tests have yet to commence.
Gapki Secretary-General M. Hadi Sugeng Wahyudiono said expanding the mandate would boost Indonesia’s palm oil use for biodiesel by a quarter, and potentially slash the country’s total palm exports to 26 million tons in 2026, from an
estimated 31 million tons this year.
The industry is also eying other supply risks, like the weather. Forecasts are for a La Niña event, which could bring above-average rainfall to the region and disrupt palm oil harvesting and output between November and February. Other factors that could drive the market include China-US trade deals on agriculture products, US
biofuel policies which could limit the country’s soy oil exports, and inventories of other edible oils including from sunflower and canola.
Moreover, the seizure of hundreds of thousands of hectares of plantation land by the Indonesian government has prompted concern that improper management may result in a drop in the nation’s production next year, said Sahat Sinaga, acting chairman of the Indonesian Palm Oil Board.
All these factors make for a bullish outlook, according to Jacquelyn Yow, associate director of research at CGS International Securities Group.
“Full B50 implementation may begin from June next year,” Yow said. This timeline could increase biodiesel demand by 1.7 million tons, bringing Indonesia’s total biofuel consumption to 15.6 million tons. That’s roughly 18 percent of global palm oil use, compared with 17 percent under B40 this year.
“This will create a favorable environment for prices,” she said. Bloomberg News
A FARM -to-market road (FMR) project in Ligao City, Albay. (PHOTO COURTESY OF DPWH)
Falling FDI inflows: A need for economic and political reforms
THE recent double-digit decline in net foreign direct investments (FDI) inflows, both in August 2025 and for the first eight months of the year, should serve as a serious wake-up call. The 40.5 percent plunge in FDI net inflows to $494 million in August, compared to $830 million in the same period last year, is a worrying sign. Similarly, the 22.5 percent drop in FDI from January to August, falling to $5.2 billion from $6.7 billion in 2024, demands immediate attention. While the BSP’s full-year forecast is $7.5 billion, the current trend suggests this target may be difficult to achieve. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “8-month net FDI inflows plunge 22.5% to $5.2 billion,” November 11, 2025).
The data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas highlights the complex issues impacting investor confidence. Trade uncertainties, notably tied to shifting US tariffs and heightened protectionist measures, are driving foreign investors into a defensive posture. The local political climate further exacerbates these woes, with geopolitical tensions, particularly in the South China Sea, casting a long shadow over the Philippines’ attractiveness as an investment destination.
Michael L. Ricafort, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation chief economist, aptly points to these factors, indicating that a wait-and-see approach has become the prevailing attitude among potential investors who are now hedging against risks rather than committing to new ventures. This cautious stance is something that should concern policymakers; a decline in FDIs not only reduces immediate capital influx but can also stifle long-term growth prospects. Diving deeper into the composition of the FDI decline, a troubling trend emerges: net investments in debt instruments plummeted by nearly 74 percent, suggesting a significant retreat in confidence from foreign investors regarding their financial engagements with local entities. Conversely, the rise in equity capital investments—up 121 percent in August—illustrates that some foreign investors remain optimistic about specific segments of the economy. These figures reveal a complex landscape: while some sectors are still seen as viable investment opportunities, the overall decline points to deeper vulnerabilities.
The manufacturing sector continues to attract the lion’s share of foreign investments, alongside wholesale and retail trade and real estate. This could serve as a springboard for revitalization, but it also underscores the need for enhanced conditions that can lure back a broader base of investors. Policymakers must prioritize creating a more stable environment—both politically and economically. To regain the trust of investors, the Philippines must prioritize anti-corruption measures, as Ricafort pointed out.
As the country navigates these challenging times, proactive solutions are essential. Strengthening trade relationships, tailoring economic policies that foster stability, and ensuring transparency could serve as catalysts for renewed investor confidence. The potential for recovery exists, but only if the government acts decisively to address the underlying issues that have led to this significant decline in FDIs.
Although the current statistics seem alarming, they should prompt decisive, strategic action. The path ahead requires a concerted effort to not only stem the tide of falling investments but to lay the foundation for sustainable growth in the years to come. The Philippines possesses the resources and talent to rebound from this downturn; it must now embrace the necessary reforms to unlock its full economic potential.
Diamond hands, real losses
MAntonio L. Cabangon Chua
T. Anthony C. Cabangon
Lourdes M. Fernandez
Jennifer A. Ng Vittorio V. Vitug
Lorenzo M. Lomibao Jr., Gerard S. Ramos Lyn B. Resurreccion, Dennis D. Estopace Angel R. Calso, Dionisio L. Pelayo Ruben M. Cruz Jr.
Eduardo A. Davad Nonilon G. Reyes
D. Edgard A. Cabangon Benjamin V. Ramos
Aldwin Maralit Tolosa
Rolando M. Manangan
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John Mangun
OUTSIDE THE BOX
ARKETS are ruthless teachers. They never fail anyone— people simply fail to listen. Every boom convinces a new crowd that they have cracked the code—that this time, they are smarter than the cycle. Then the tide goes out and confidence becomes confusion. Markets always reveal who was prepared and who was pretending.
True commitment to profitable investing is not blind faith. It is readiness. It requires enough liquidity, humility, and patience to survive the parts of the cycle that do not fit your expectations. Everything else is wishful thinking dressed as courage. Investing culture loves slogans. In the cryptocurrency world, they talk about “diamond hands” (or HODLers) versus “paper hands” (weak holders) as if refusing to sell through pain was proof of genius. In reality, diamond hands belong to those with unlimited money or zero obligations. Everyone else eventually finds their breaking point and it is usually the hard way.
The language changes, but the psychology does not. Stock traders boast about “high-conviction positions.” Fund managers describe “long-term strategies.” Both are versions of the same story: I am right; the market is wrong. The market, being patient and unbothered, eventually decides otherwise.
Every bull run produces prophets.
Every correction turns them back into students.
History is full of firms with perfect models and disastrous timing— Archegos Capital, Long-Term Capital Management, Sequans Communications. Faith without contingency is pride with better public relations.
Sequans touted its Bitcoin stash as a “long-term conviction play,” then two weeks ago dumped nearly a thousand coins when debt repayments loomed. That was not strategy; it was survival—no different from a developer discounting condos or a retailer’s “3-Day Sale” just to make payroll. When obligations meet optimism, optimism always blinks first. Preparation, not bravado, keeps portfolios alive. Cash, caution, and humility do not sound exciting, which is why most investors forget them right before they need them most. They are habits of survival. Markets punish pride faster than they reward patience.
That pattern is not confined to Wall Street or Paris. It echoes in
Preparation is not pessimism; it is respect for uncertainty. It means recognizing that the world does not owe you smooth returns. It is about testing assumptions, watching the “basket” carefully, and accepting that even good ideas can go wrong for long stretches. The best investors are not the most assured; they are the most adaptable.
Manila’s trading floors and property offices. Global leverage makes headlines, but local overconfidence writes its own tragedies.
Filipino investors would rather pray for rebounds than plan for risk.
In Manila, investors still believe a red chart just means it is time to “average down”—a phrase that has buried more portfolios than recessions ever did. A portfolio that looks sound on paper can turn illiquid the next day. Confidence may keep you calm, but liquidity keeps you solvent.
Local traders often mistake movement for progress. When prices go quiet, they get restless instead of relaxed. Preparation, in their minds, means finding the next rumor, not building a reserve. In the Philippines, we do not sell at losses; we “wait for recovery,” sometimes until the company delists.
Preparation is not pessimism; it is respect for uncertainty. It means recognizing that the world does not owe you smooth returns. It is about testing assumptions, watching the “basket” carefully, and accepting that even good ideas can go wrong for long stretches. The best inves-
tors are not the most assured; they are the most adaptable. Still, markets never change their favorite lesson—optimism always overreaches before realism takes over. The “long-term investor” of 2021 becomes the “disillusioned trader” of 2025. People swear they will never sell, and then they do —because tuition, mortgages, and “investor insomnia” are real. It is easy to preach patience when your portfolio is green, and your obligations are not calling. The Philippines faces a familiar test. Growth is slowing, investment remains sticky, and the cost of money has not returned to pre-pandemic comfort levels. Yet optimism persists—the kind that assumes the next quarter will fix the last one. Perhaps it will. But the prudent know better than to rely on hope as a hedge. Conviction is cheap when prices rise. Preparation costs discipline. True steadiness is not faith that markets will recover—it is readiness for when they do not. The strongest investors are not the loudest believers but the quietest survivors. “Diamond hands” are not proof of courage; they are often proof of having no choice. Real strength lies not in refusing to sell, but in being able to choose when to. The market always makes that distinction—quietly, efficiently, and without sympathy. The market never punishes courage—only carelessness.
E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.
Apple’s restraint finds fans as AI spending faces scrutiny
By Ryan Vlastelica & Carmen Reinicke
APPLE Inc. has faced plenty of criticism from Wall Street for not spending as aggressively on artificial intelligence as its Big Tech rivals. But that strategy is suddenly a blessing for the iPhone maker.
Investors are beginning to scrutinize the huge sums companies like OpenAI, Meta Platforms Inc. and Microsoft Corp. are spending on AI, leading to heavy volatility in what had been some of the year’s biggest momentum plays. As a result, Apple’s position is being re-evaluated.
While it’s still considered a potential AI winner, it doesn’t carry the risk of heavy capital expenditures and it does have ample cash on its books. That makes Apple shares a potential haven within the technology industry if the AI trade unwinds further.
The trend is playing out in early Tuesday trading, as Apple shares are up 0.8 percent and the leading point gainer in the S&P 500 Index, while AI darlings Nvidia Corp., Meta and
Microsoft are all dragging the market down.
“The hedge is it’s still a technology company, but not an AI company,” Brian Mulberry, client portfolio manager at Zacks Investment Management, said. “There is this positive feel for Apple that they don’t have to answer the big question that everybody else does, which is: What is the return on your invested capital in all of these other areas?”
The thesis is simple. Apple will benefit as it taps other companies’ models to deliver AI features to its millions of customers while avoiding much of the heavy spending required to develop its own capabilities, which is what many of its megacap peers are doing.
“Apple has the least exposure of
The thesis is simple. Apple will benefit as it taps other companies’ models to deliver AI features to its millions of customers while avoiding much of the heavy spending required to develop its own capabilities, which is what many of its megacap peers are doing.
the Mag 7 to AI in terms of where it is spending money and how leveraged it is,” said Brian Pollak, portfolio manager and head of the investment policy committee at Evercore Wealth Management. “It is absolutely true that it is a potential beneficiary of AI without having to spend all the capital that its cohorts are.” Apple’s capital expenditures are expected to be about $14 billion in its current fiscal year, which ends in September 2026. By comparison, Microsoft is projected to have capex of more than $94 billion in its own fiscal year, which ends in June. And
Meta, a company half Apple’s size, is set to have capex of more than $70 billion in 2025.
You can see the difference in how Apple’s stock trades. In a year dominated by AI enthusiasm, it’s the worst performer in the Bloomberg Magnificent 7 Index, climbing just 8.4 percent in 2025 compared with Alphabet Inc.’s 52 percent jump and Nvidia’s 45 percent gain. Even the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 indexes are handily beating it this year.
However, when tech shares got hit last week amid rising concerns about AI spending, Apple outperformed its rivals and the indexes, finishing the five sessions almost flat while the rest were well into the red. In fact, over the second half of the year, Apple shares are up 32 percent, far outdistancing the S&P 500, Nasdaq 100 and many of its Big Tech competitors. “It has such a strong balance sheet, such strong cash flow, such a large moat in its business,” Pollak said. “All that makes it more defensive See “Apple’s,” A15
Starmer allies launch effort to ward off a leadership challenge
By Alex Wickham
ALLIES of Keir Starmer sought to ward off a feared leadership challenge from one of the British premier’s best-known ministers, as cabinet feuds spilled into the open just weeks before the government is due to unveil a contentious budget.
Starmer’s supporters privately accused Health Secretary Wes Streeting of plotting to replace the prime minister, according to people familiar with the matter, in an acknowledgment of his weakened position after months of Labour Party rebellions and stubbornly low poll numbers. They argued that any attempt to oust Starmer would risk a market shock and undermine the government’s finances, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing internal disputes. A spokesperson for Streeting described the claims that the minister was after Starmer’s job as “categorically untrue.” Another official said that Downing Street had gone into bunker mode and initiated a circular firing squad.
While Starmer has been struggling to quell dissent within the Labour Party since before the election 16 months ago, the cabinet has largely maintained the appearance of unity. A split with a leading minister from Starmer’s own centrist wing of the party represents a potentially more serious threat than when Andy Burnham—the more left-leaning mayor of Greater Manchester— called the prime minister’s leadership into question at the governing party’s annual conference.
The exchanges between supporters of Starmer and Streeting come as the government readies to unveil a budget on November 26 that Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves has warned would be challenging. They suggest that Downing Street officials are already concerned that the spending plan—including potentially scrapping the party’s vows against raising broad-based taxes— could prompt leadership threats.
Reports of Starmer’s efforts to fight back were splashed across British news sites on Tuesday evening.
Over the past week, the prime minister’s team received new information that suggested Streeting had been actively plotting a coup, a person familiar with the matter said, declining to elaborate. Streeting’s spokesperson denied the allegation.
Supporters of the premier conducted a recent exercise with investors where they were told that any alternatives to Starmer and Reeves would result in a significant rise in
than the companies that have spent so much more on AI and are more leveraged to it.”
Even on Monday, the separation was apparent, as AI stocks leaped on renewed optimism about the end of the US government shutdown, while Apple muddled along due to concerns about delays to next year’s version of the iPhone Air. The different treatment is key as investors start to get concerned about the degree of AI spending and want to see some returns from those investments.
“Momentum is slowing and there’s less interest in buying the dip,” said Mark Grant, chief global strategist at Colliers Securities. “The valuations of some of these AI stocks have gotten out of hand.”
Apple’s latest earnings report featured a positive forecast, though results were mixed and showed a surprise decline in China revenue. However, some of its Magnificent 7 peers, including Meta and Microsoft, were punished for heavy capex and revenue outlooks that underwhelmed. Meta shares, for example, plunged more than 11 percent on October 30, their worst day in three years, after Chief
Remembering Quezon: Between power and purpose
Wgilt yields, according to a person familiar with the matter. That risked further destabilizing the government’s finances, the person said. Labour Members of Parliament have grown increasingly anxious about the party’s fortunes as Starmer struggled to stop the rise of populist Reform UK, led by Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage. Streeting—along with Burnham and former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner—has long ranked on betting markets among the Labour politicians most likely to succeed Starmer as prime minister.
Until recently, Streeting was seen as one of the best defenders of Starmer’s agenda. The MP from east London has been identified with the right of the Labour Party, including blunt assessments of the totemic National Health Service, a potential obstacle to winning support from more leftwing Labour members.
Last July, Streeting won his nominally safe seat by only 528 votes, down from more than 5,000 in the previous election. A strong challenge from an independent British-Palestinian candidate—propelled in part by misgivings about Starmer’s policy toward Israel—has caused some to argue that Streeting is too vulnerable to lead the party through the next election, which must be held by 2029.
Starmer has made a series of comments to the media in recent months that stray beyond his health brief into areas such as Gaza and Brexit. Labour officials who spoke with Bloomberg have perceived these interventions as an effort to reposition himself in the eyes of party members.
The budget that Reeves is due to deliver later this month has been widely expected to test the party’s promise not to raise income tax, something that some Starmer supporters fear could imperil his position. The pledge was central to a campaign manifesto that helped lift Labour to power for the first time in 14 years.
Even if the budget goes well and Starmer sees off any immediate leadership threats, more political peril lies around the corner. Some in Labour have suggested that a set of local elections in May could be a crunch moment that could trigger a leadership contest if the party performs poorly. Bloomberg
Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg emphasized the need to spend even more on AI during the company’s earnings call.
To be sure, there continues to be a lot of optimism about AI, and megacaps are hardly at risk of losing their status among the most popular stocks in the market. The skepticism is healthy even if it’s being “overstated,” according to Bank of America analyst Vivek Arya.
“The pervasive skepticism re AI capex is understandable but likely a contrarian positive, helping minimize overcrowding,” he wrote in a November 10 note. Recent weakness reflects unrelated issues like the government shutdown, while “the underlying demand environment remains robust.”
All of which has investors wondering what Apple’s role is in a stock market dominated by AI growth. Is it a hedge against a sudden downturn? Or is it just a Big Tech investment that’s failing to fully capitalize on the current trend?
“I think Apple isn’t a hedge, it’s just a laggard stock,” said Vikram Rai, portfolio manager and macro trader at First New York. “I just don’t think it will give you the pop that you want to give you alpha in your portfolio.” With assistance from Min Jeong Lee, Subrat Patnaik and David Watkins/Bloomberg
By Pablo S. Trillana III
HEN the lights dimmed in the theater and the opening frames of “Quezon” unfolded, the audience expected a portrait of a founder, perhaps one shaded by realism, but still carrying the glow of reverence.
When the lights came up, applause mixed with unease. In the post-screening dialogue, Ricky Quezon Avanceña—grandson of President Manuel Luis Quezon—asked the question that cracked the evening’s decorum: Was this film political satire? The director answered yes. That single word opened a fault line between art and ancestry. For Ricky, and for many who have lived with Quezon’s memory as both heritage and burden, satire seemed too brittle a vessel for a man whose life had been built upon the paradox of idealism and strategy.
A satire can reveal corruption and vanity; it can also, when unbalanced, reduce vision to mere maneuvering. To make Quezon only a “politiko” — a schemer, however brilliant — was to strip the Republic of one of its earliest harmonies between resonance and reason.
The artist’s liberty and the historian’s duty SATIRE has its place in a weary republic. It punctures pomposity and forces the comfortable to blink. Yet when it turns its gaze upon those who carved the nation’s first institutions, the standard of justice shifts.
Art may exaggerate; history must weigh. The filmmakers’ defense— that the work was based on “verified accounts”—is factually sound yet morally incomplete. One can verify every rumor of intrigue and still miss the steady, luminous labor that gave shape to a people’s self-rule.
The greater artistry, perhaps, would have been to hold both truths together: Quezon the tactician and Quezon the builder; the politician who bargained in smoke-filled rooms and the statesman who dreamed of a just and self-respecting people. The Commonwealth’s birth was neither comedy nor farce; it was the rehearsal of sovereignty. To see it only through the lens of satire is to make irony the last refuge of understanding.
The man and his Republic
MANUEL LUIS QUEZON was many things—vain, eloquent, proud, strategic—but he was never hollow. Under the white suits and the cutting wit lay an architecture of conscience. He fought for the national language not as ornament but as foundation; he moved for social justice and land reform when those phrases were still radical in polite salons.
He built institutions that could
Manuel Luis Quezon was many things—vain, eloquent, proud, strategic—but he was never hollow. Under the white suits and the cutting wit lay an architecture of conscience. He fought for the national language not as ornament but as foundation; he moved for social justice and land reform when those phrases were still radical in polite salons.
carry independence beyond flag and anthem. He opened the doors of the archipelago to Jewish refugees when the rest of the world was closing its borders. These are not the acts of a man merely trading favors. They are the work of a leader who understood that freedom requires form, and form requires discipline.
If politics was his instrument, then purpose was his score. The political cunning so highlighted in the film was the price of navigating an occupied democracy; but the melody—the reason we remember him—was the difficult and delicate harmony between pragmatism and principle.
The balance we owe our past RICKY AVANCEÑA’S protest, then, is not an indulgence of family pride. It is a plea for balance—the same balance a nation must keep between skepticism and faith. To mock our founders too easily is to forget how hard they worked to be taken seriously by empires and skeptics alike.
Yet to sanctify them beyond reproach is to abandon the honesty they themselves demanded. Between irony and honor, there lies a narrow road called truth, and it requires from both artist and citizen the same virtue: discernment.
Remembering in full light QUEZON’S story, if told whole, teaches the peril and promise of power in a fledgling republic. He bargained because he had to; he dreamed because he refused not to. To portray him as either saint or cynic is to misunderstand the kind of courage nation-building demands. In an age quick to mock and slow to understand, balance itself becomes an act of patriotism. Let satire provoke, but let remembrance redeem. Let art interrogate, but let history restore proportion. And let us, inheritors of both freedom and fatigue, remember Manuel Luis Quezon not merely as the master of political craft, but as the man who, through all its compromises, carried within him the pulse of a Republic still learning how to love itself.
For the Republic was never built in purity alone—it was built in struggle, in contradiction, in that fragile space where principle and practicality meet. There, between irony and honor, Quezon walked. And there, still, the Filipino must learn to walk again.
Pablo S. Trillana III is former chair of the National Historical Institute, and book author.
Thailand spurns Cambodia peace deal tied to US trade talks
By Patpicha Tanakasempipat
THAILAND has suspended a peace process with Cambodia that was a condition for tariff negotiations with US President Donald Trump, after Thai soldiers were injured in a landmine blast near the border.
The suspension will remain in place until the Thai armed forces deem “hostilities” have ceased, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters after a meeting of the National Security Council on Tuesday. Later in the evening, the prime minister traveled to Si Sa Ket province to visit four soldiers injured earlier this week by what the Thai army said were newly laid mines.
Anutin was visibly emotional as he spoke to the wounded soldiers at their bedside, one of whom had lost an ankle in the blast.
“The agreement to pave the way for peace is over for Thailand,” he told reporters during the visit to the border province. “It’s clear that we will no longer be implementing the terms, and we will determine our own process. The government will fully support the armed forces’ terms and operations.”
Anutin’s move underscores how domestic political sensitivities about the border dispute outweigh economic and diplomatic considerations, at least for now. The blast
reignited nationalist anger, leaving the Thai leader little room to appear soft on Cambodia, even at the risk of jeopardizing his country’s trade deal with the US.
The Thai government may consider revoking the peace deal altogether unless Cambodia responds to Thailand’s formal protest, according to spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat. Anutin has instructed the defense ministry to step up military operations to protect Thailand’s sovereignty and secure the border, Siripong said.
“All terms in the joint declaration will be suspended, and the plan to release Cambodian detainees will be terminated,” Defense Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit said earlier on Tuesday, referring to 18 soldiers being held by Thailand.
The blast was the seventh such incident in four months, following a wave of explosions in July that sparked the deadliest border clashes in years before Trump’s intervention.
The US president had earlier threatened to scupper trade deals
with both countries unless they halted fighting, and Thai officials have said holding a peace-summit style meeting during his Asia trip last month was a condition for agreeing to trade terms.
Anutin later referenced the peace deal when he made a direct plea to Trump last month for a “better” trade deal.
“President Donald Trump made the countries’ commitment to the peace process a precondition for their new trade frameworks with Washington. A collapse of those deals—and their lower tariff rates—would pose real risks for both export-dependent economies, likely encouraging restraint and leaving the door open to de-escalation,” said Adam Farrar, Bloomberg’s senior geoeconomics analyst for Asia-Pacific.
The so-called Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords outlined the removal of heavy weapons from border zones between November 1 and December 31 and a cooperation on land-mine clearances as part of efforts to normalize ties. Thailand also sought Cambodian crackdowns on cyberscam operations there.
The peace deal had been struck only to placate Trump, who could still use tariffs as a lever to try to get it back on track, said Matthew Wheeler, senior analyst for Southeast Asia at
International Crisis Group. But that may be challenging due to political sensitivities in Thailand.
“Thailand’s suspension of implementation reflects just how febrile is popular sentiment on the Cambodian border issue, and how little political space there is for the government to pursue a conciliatory approach,” Wheeler said. Cambodia’s defense ministry denied the mines were newly laid, adding that they likely were remnants of past conflicts that have not been cleared. The country “remains committed to working closely with Thailand to promote peace and stability” under the Trump-backed peace declaration, a defense ministry spokeswoman said in a statement on Tuesday.
A joint statement on the US-Thai trade deal last month outlined some preliminary agreements including Thailand’s elimination of tariff barriers on about 99 percent of US goods, especially industrial, food, and agricultural products. In return, the US will impose 19 percent tariffs on Thailand, with some products that are yet to be identified set to be tariff-free.
Thai authorities said that the framework is non-binding and detailed talks will follow, with the aim of concluding negotiations by the end of the year. Bloomberg
IEA reinstates bullish oil demand growth scenario in key report
TBy Grant Smith
HE International Energy Agency further tempered its stance on an imminent peak in oil demand, reinstating a scenario in which global consumption keeps growing to the middle of the century.
While oil demand was set to plateau or fall this decade in all three scenarios the IEA examined last year, the latest report reintroduces a “Current Policies Scenario”—or CPS—in which consumption rises 13 percent by 2050. The stronger outlook hinges on a slower pace of electric vehicle adoption.
The revival of CPS after a five-year hiatus marks the latest revaluation of oil’s long-term prospects by the agency and the wider energy industry. It also comes at a time when the White House is held by an administration that both champions fossil fuels and attacks renewable energy sources.
Forecasts from the Paris-based IEA—established following the 1973 oil shock—are used globally as a benchmark by governments and energy companies for planning policy and investments. The agency’s analysis may provide sobering reading for delegates gathering in Brazil this week for the United Nations-sponsored climate talks known as COP30.
The report on Wednesday is another shift in tone for the agency, which in September said that billions of dollars need to be invested in new oil and gas supplies—having previously drawn fire for saying that such investment was incompatible with climate goals. Republican lawmakers have assailed the agency and sought to cut its funding.
The IEA’s latest outlook is consistent with a trend across the energy industry. In September, BP Plc. pushed back projections that consumption could top out as early as this year.
In addition to CPS, the report continues to include the Stated Policies Scenario, or STEPS, in which oil demand peaks around 2030. The report didn’t prioritize any pathway as being more likely.
“One major determinant of future oil demand is electrification of the transport sector,” Executive Director Fatih Birol said in a phone interview from the agency’s Paris headquarters. “It will depend on government policies.”
Electric vehicles IN CPS, global oil consumption climbs from roughly 100 million barrels a day to 113 million in 2050, as the share of EVs in total global car sales broadly plateaus after 2035. In STEPS, the share of EV sales is projected to double by 2030 and rise above 50 percent five years later. The CPS scenario poses a drag on growth in wind and solar energy, and a stron-
ger trajectory for natural gas. Inevitably, the two paths entail different consequences for world oil markets and prices. In the CPS, “higher demand mops up any excess oil and LNG supply more quickly,” bolstering oil prices to about $90 a barrel in 2035. Meeting the demand will require roughly 25 million barrels per day of new projects, and supplies from producers currently subject to sanctions. The demand scenario for oil and gas is further proof the road to net zero by the middle of the decade will be bumpier than previously anticipated, with ramifications for the environment. Global temperatures will rise to almost 3C above pre-industrial levels by the end of the century in CPS, compared with 2.5C in the other pathway. Both options spell a level of climate change that scientists consider extremely destructive. With assistance from Elena Mazneva and William Mathis / Bloomberg
Thursday, November 13, 2025
TOKYO WINS BIG AT TOURISE AWARDS 2025 IN RIYADH
By Edwin P. Sallan
IYADH, Saudi Arabia—To-
Rkyo, a bustling metropolis and capital city of Japan is the big winner of the first TOURISE Awards with three major honors, namely Best Entertainment Destination, Best Food & Culinary Destination, and the coveted Best Overall Destination.
Tokyo was the only finalist in the Best Overall Destination category as it is recognized by TOURISE for offering “a wellrounded, exceptional travel experience across multiple categories.”
Held in Riyadh amidst a wellreceived global tourism summit that drew over 8,000 delegates, 140 speakers, and over 400 members of the media from all over the world, the TOURISE Awards also coincides with the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of United Nations Tourism.
In handing out these honors, the TOURISE Awards aim to recognize “leading global destinations who are rewriting the very definition of exploration.” A total of 12 finalists were announced last October, selected “from a wide array of nominations submitted by passionate globetrotters, travelers, industry experts, and organizations across the world.”
TOURISE drumbeaters say that together, the 12 finalists, including the eventual winners, “represent places from across the world that are not just changing the game of destination excellence; [but] are setting entirely new rules to cater to the demands of the modern traveler.”
The TOURISE Awards 2025 jury panel is composed of former CEO of Forbes Travel Guide Filip Boyen, former Managing Director of Conde Nast Albert Read, former Global Director of Mi-
chelin Guides Michael Ellis, former Chair of World Travel Market and Tourism of Tomorrow Fiona Jeffery Obe, former President and CEO of Dior Americas Renaud de Lesquen, former Managing Director of Tate Modern Lars Nittve, former CEO of Kempinski Hotels Bernold Schroeder, former CEO of British Fashion Council Caroline Rush, and UN Goodwill Ambassador, Mountaineer and Polar Explorer Omar Samra.
As per TOURISE’s official website, the TOURISE Awards are also built on principles that ensure the highest levels of integrity, inclusion, and independence. Integrity: Every stage of the Award is guided by a rigorous framework rooted in global best practices, with data-driven assessments ensuring objective, fair and consistent evaluation.
Inclusion: Participation in the TOURISE Award is open to all and is completely free of charge. By removing financial barriers, we ensure that every destination—regardless of size or resources—can compete on a level playing field based solely on merit. A single valid nomination is all that’s needed for a destination to be considered.
Independence: Led by Global Tourism Icons—Shortlisted destinations, Finalists and winners are selected by an independent jury of globally recognized tourism leaders, critics, and former heads of world-class organizations. Their decisions are guided solely by expertise and a rigorous evaluation framework, with no influence from popularity or vote count.
To be eligible for nomination, a destination must demonstrate the following core attributes: Defined geographic scope. Physical area, which can be a
BusinessMirror
PHL in trade talks to push bid to join trans-Pacific bloc
By Andrea E. San Juan
FOLLOWING the Philippines’ submission of its formal application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) in August, the country is now in informal talks with trade ministers of Canada and New Zealand as it pursues accession to the 12-member regional trade bloc—a move seen to “complement” the country’s goal to expand its market access.
Trade Undersecretary Allan B. Gepty and Canada’s Deputy Minister Rob Stewart met last October 29 at the sidelines of the APEC Ministerial Meeting in Gyeongju, Korea to discuss the Philippines’s interest in seeking stronger regional collaboration as it pursues ac-
cession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), according to a social media post of the Department of Trade and Industry-Bureau of International Trade Relations (DTI-BITR).
“Both sides exchanged views on the
accession process and reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing open and inclusive trade in the region,” DTI-BITR said.
Gepty emphasized that joining the CPTPP will “complement the country’s aim to expand its market access and reinforce its goal of fostering a more dynamic and competitive economy.”
He also met with New Zealand’s Deputy Secretary Vangelis Vitalis at the sidelines of the APEC Ministerial Meeting to discuss the Philippines’s interest in seeking stronger regional collaboration as it aims to join CPTPP.
The meetings followed the Philippines’s formal application submitted in August 2025 to join the 12-member trade bloc.
A document obtained by the BusinessMirror from Gepty bared the CPTPP Accession Process.
The first step in the process is the Aspirant economy’s notification. Under this, “Aspirant economies are encouraged to engage informally with all CPTPP Signatories regarding their interest in joining the CPTPP prior to submitting a formal request.”
“Aspirant economies must notify New Zealand, as CPTPP depositary of their formal request to commence negotiations on acceding to the CPTPP [Accession Request],” the file noted. The Depository will then “promptly” acknowledge receipt and share the Accession Request with the other CPTPP Signatories.
After this, the CPTPP Commission will determine whether to commence the accession process with the aspirant economy within a reasonable period of time after the date on which the aspirant economy made the Accession Request.
The decision shall be made public. In a statement issued in September, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) expressed support for the country’s accession to the CPTPP, deeming this “critical for securing the nation’s economic future at a time of increasing global trade fragmentation and protective measures from traditional partners.”
With key trading partners becoming “more cautious” towards imports to
BPO group justifies acts during last typhoons
By Andrea E. San Juan & Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) insisted that its member companies operate within the bounds of existing DOLE regulations, circulars, and labor advisories, even during typhoons and other natural calamities.
This, the industry group pointed out, as its member firms continued operations as their global clients expected of them—guided by the Office of the President’s directive that private sector work suspension would be left to the discretion of employers.
“During the recent weather disturbance, companies implemented their respective business continuity plans to ensure the safety of employees while maintaining essential client operations,” IBPAP said in a statement on Wednesday.
With the continuation of operations of these IT and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) firms, the industry group pointed out that management discretion always placed “primacy” on health and safety of their employees and went beyond standard company processes and practices.
“Internal risk assessments and business imperatives considered, employers ensured that employees who opted to work onsite were provided additional benefits and conveniences while in the office premises,” IBPAP said. In foreseen work disturbances due to typhoons or extreme weather, it noted that employers offered flexibility to work onsite or remotely, according to their employees’ preference and as conditions permitted.
The group said it supports “mission-critical” operations for global clients across healthcare, telecommunications, banking, and other
essential sectors.
As such, the ability to sustain operations even during emergencies is part of the industry’s responsibility to both its employees and its clients, ensuring continuity of livelihoods and services that millions around the world depend on.
Ibpap stressed anew that worker welfare “remains at the heart of the industry.”
“Our members are guided by the principle that safety and compliance must go hand in hand with operational resilience, and they welcome the inspection of DOLE and recognized regulatory authorities to showcase established compliance measures, including guidelines and internal communications to ensure employee safety under all circumstances,” IBPAP underscored.
IBPAP stressed that it has “long championed” work flexibility and telecommuting, having lobbied for these measures since 2021 and con-
tinuing to promote hybrid work arrangements as a sustainable model for both productivity and employee welfare.
“This advocacy, reinforced in our ongoing engagements with the Department of Labor and Employment, including a recent meeting with Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma and IT-BPM industry leaders, reflects our shared commitment to protect workers while sustaining the country’s global competitiveness,” IBPAP said.
DOLE continues probe
THE DOLE earlier said its regional offices are continuing to BPO firms that allegedly maintained normal operations even as Super Typhoon Uwan battered parts of Luzon and the Visayas.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma said the department had earlier directed its field offices to verify reports of “business-as-
Study: Shift to DRG better for PhilHealth
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
AN overhaul of the decadeold case rate system of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and adoption of a Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRG) payment model may provide fairer financial coverage for both hospitals and patients, according to a study.
The recent study by state-run think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) recommended that PhilHealth shift to a DRG model to align hospital reimbursements with the actual complexity and cost of patient care.
“Payments based on DRGs are more realistic, offering better financial coverage for both providers and patients,” the authors said.
The DRG payment model is an evidence-based system that classifies patients by diagnosis, severity and resource use to ensure that reimbursements match the actual complexity of care, according to PIDS. Under this, hospitals would receive prospective payments based on expected service volume and performance through a Global Budget arrangement, as mandated by the Universal Health Care (UHC) Law, PIDS said. Hospitals would receive frontloaded funding, or their portion of the overall health budget, at the beginning of the fiscal period rather than having to wait months for reimbursements.
Under the current All Case Rates system, hospitals would spend about 49 days preparing and filing
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
B1 Thursday, November 13, 2025
Bloomberry 9-month income plunges on weak Q3 results
By VG Cabuag @villygc
BLOOMBERRY Resorts Corp. on Wednesday said its earnings plummeted by 95 percent in the nine months of the year ending September 30 to P160.1 million, compared with P3.5 billion last year due to its weak performance in the third quarter.
It booked a consolidated net loss of P1.7 billion in July to September, compared to the net loss of P470.2 million in the same period last year.
“The ramp-up of the MegaFUNalo online gaming platform is progressing, although at a slower pace than anticipated, despite regulatory uncertainties. We are actively enhancing our offerings and plan to launch new content in the coming weeks,” he said.
Consolidated gross gaming revenues (GGR) for the nine months came in flat at P45.7 billion, from the previous P45.5 billion.
Solaire Entertainment City’s GGR fell to P31.9 billion from P40.6 billion in the same period last year.
Meanwhile, GGR for the period declined 10 percent to P14.6 billion from P16.3 billion in the third quarter of 2024.
Weakness in the VIP and premium mass segments persisted through the third quarter, it said.
Last March, the company reported that its consolidated net income fell by 72 percent to P2.62 billion last year from P9.52 billion recorded in 2023 on higher depreciation and interest expense associated with Solaire North in Quezon City.
FLI: New tenants drive 9-mo profit
F“The business environment in the third quarter mirrored that of the first half of 2025. Our consolidated EBITDA [earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization] declined due to ongoing softness in international high roller activity and increased expenses from the rollout of our online gaming services,” Enrique K. Razon Jr., Bloomberry chairman and CEO, said.
Solaire North, meanwhile, generated GGR of P13.8 billion in 9 months, compared with the P4.8 billion from May 25 to September 30, 2024.
“However, the local market remained strong as evidenced by revenue performance at Solaire North, which focuses on the domestic mass market, with gaming and resort revenues rising by 25 percent and 58 percent year-over-year, respectively.
Consolidated net revenue was P39.7 billion, an increase of 3 percent against P38.5 billion in the same period last year.
For the third quarter, revenues fell 8 percent to P12.7 billion from P13.8 billion last year.
The operator of Solaire Resorts and Casinos said it had a P706.3million one-off gross receipts tax charge relating to the P72-billion syndicated refinancing facility.
“In 2024 we reported topline growth despite a challenging operating environment in Metro Manila. The newly opened Solaire Resort North contributed to our GGR [gross gaming revenue] strength as it vastly expanded our presence in the mass market segment,” said Razon.
DMCI to expand Palawan power plant
CBy Lenie Lectura
@llectura
ONSUNJI-LED DMCI Power Corp. (DPC) wants to double the capacity of its existing 15- megawatt (MW) coal-biomass power project in Palawan.
“The proposed additional 15-MW circulating fluidized bed (CFB) coalbiomass fired power plant will be installed beside the existing 15MW CFB coal-biomass power plant— phase 1 located within the existing
SIEMENS AG is finalizing options to reduce a majority stake in its former medical equipment unit after the €35 billion ($40.5 billion) holding turned into a drag on its share price.
The German industrial company’s supervisory board is scheduled to meet prior to an investor day Thursday, according to a company spokesperson, and may decide on a way to lower its ownership in Siemens Healthineers AG. At 71 percent, resizing the stake is complex and the company has weighed several solutions, people familiar with the matter previously told Bloomberg News. Siemens has whittled down holdings in its former energy and medical divisions to streamline its business and expand in high-margin areas such as software and artificial intelligence. While the conglomerate in 2018 spun off Healthineers by listing it in Frankfurt, it has sold only smaller parcels of shares so far. Analysts have long criticized the high amount of capital locked in the stake, as well as the lack of synergies between Healthineers and Siemens, which makes products including trains and software for factory automation.
“A potential Healthineers deconsolidation could remove a valuation overhang and simplify the case,” Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Omid Vaziri said in a note. The move would allow “focus on expanding software margins” and growth in the company’s Smart Infrastructure unit that makes technology for building and energy grid management.
Siemens’ Chief Financial Officer Ralf Thomas last year opened the door to offloading part of the stake, when he indicated the company was
property acquired by the DPC in Barangay Bato-Bato, Municipality of Narra, Province of Palawan,” the company said in a filing with the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB).
The estimated cost for the proposed additional 15MW is approximately P3 billion.
The existing 15-MW CFB coalbiomass power plant has been certified as an energy project of national significance (CEPNS) by the Department of Energy (DOE).
“Without the proposed expansion project, DPC will not be able to adhere its commitment on the DOE-granted CEPNS. Without the proposed project, other potential issues may arise in the future as the current supply may not be able to address the existing and near-future demands of local consumers, if no other alternative power supply will immediately be introduced in the area,” it said.
DPC will continue to operate the existing 15MW power plant based on its maximum capacity. The proposed
expansion project is not covered by the coal moratorium ban of the DOE.
“DPC’s route to further assist the province towards the stabilization of energy supply is supported by the DOE through the granting of the Certificate of Exemption from the coal moratorium of the DPC’s 1x15MW CFB coal-biomass power plant phase 2 on May 31, 2024,” it said.
The planned expansion project was also certified as an energy project of national significance by the DOE in August 2024.
ready to sell a 5-percent holding of its then-75 percent share package. Bloomberg reported last week that Siemens favored handing a large part of its Healthineers stake to its own shareholders as a dividend in kind, according to people familiar with the matter. This solution has become a frontrunner after confirmation that a so-called direct spinoff would avoid creating a significant tax burden for shareholders, according to some of the people. Siemens targets a stake reduction to below 40 percent, they said. Other options for Siemens include retaining a minority stake that it could sell later to fund deals.
Healthineers, a maker of CT and MRI scanners as well as technology for blood testing labs and cancer therapy, listed in 2018 under previous Siemens Chief Executive Officer Joe Kaeser, who streamlined
the conglomerate also with the spinoff of Siemens Energy AG. Current CEO Roland Busch has been driving the German industrial stalwart to software-driven product lines that generate higher margins.
The German group has toyed for some time with the idea of divesting a large part of its stake in Healthineers, and in February sold a 2.3-percent holding for around €1.4 billion. Siemens has been divesting assets partly to help fund acquisitions including its $10.6 billion takeover of software maker Altair Engineering Inc.
It has also pared down its stake in Siemens Energy, which makes turbines and grid technology, to fund acquisitions including the $5.1 billion takeover of Boston-based R&D software maker Dotmatics.
On Thursday, Busch will present Siemens’ “One Tech company” strategy for the next years aimed at
creating more revenue from digitization at its main factory automation, building infrastructure and trainmanufacturing units.
Under Busch, Siemens’ share price gains of 80 percent have trailed rival ABB Ltd., which nearly tripled, while net income gained over a third. Its Digital Industries unit focused on factory automation is facing deeper strains because of a prolonged downturn in China.
For Healthineers, a pullback by Siemens could make the medical technology provider “attractive for new investors that are interested in big tickets,” CEO Bernd Montag said last week. “In the long term, this is going to be helpful for us.”
When Healthineers listed, then-CEO Kaeser opted to retain a large majority in the profitable company to prop up its own earnings. Bloomberg News
ILINVEST Land Inc. (FLI), the listed property development arm of the Gotianun Group, said its net income went up by 5 percent to P3.64 billion in January to September from the previous year’s P3 billion fueled by sustained leasing momentum from its retail and office investment properties.
Consolidated revenues grew 9 percent to P20.08 billion from the previous year’s P18.43 billion.
Leasing revenues inched up by 7 percent to P6.13 billion, supported by steady tenant demand and improved occupancy across the company’s office and retail mix.
Real estate revenues also rose by 8 percent to P12.86 billion, led by the strength of its residential business which increased 5 percent to P12.44 billion, alongside continued contributions from industrial lot sales reaching P357 million.
“Building on its previous quarter’s momentum, the company delivered its strongest performance to date in the third quarter, posting a P7.8 billion in total revenues (a 26 percent increase), led by the residential segment with P5.1 billion,” the company said.
“Our focused rent strategies continue to bear fruit as we see improved occupancy rates for our malls and offices. While our recurring income portfolio will continue to provide growth in the coming quarters, we are also excited about the accretive potential from the opening of our new malls in Cubao and Mimosa Leisure Estate in Clark,” the company’s president and CEO Tristan Las Marias, said.
Retail leasing revenues and other income reached P2.01 billion on the nine-month period, a 9-percent increase year-on-year. Growth was propelled by the continued strength
of
In the third quarter alone, over 8,000 square meters of tenant space began operations, while more than 12,000 square meters were newly leased.
Total operational gross leasing area across the retail portfolio now stands at 258,017 square meters with an occupancy rate of 78 percent, an increase of 10 percent from the previous year.
Office leasing revenues, including contributions from both REIT and non-REIT, or real estate investment trust, portfolios, grew by 5 percent to P3.68 billion, supported by a higher occupied gross leasable area of 419,481 square meters. Among the new tenants welcomed by FLI are the Department of Information and Communications Technology at Studio 7 in Quezon City and Concentrix at Filinvest Cyberzone Cebu.
Residential revenues, meanwhile, increased by 5 percent to P12.51 billion, backed by project completions, steady collections, and strategic focus to meet the demand for readyfor-occupancy units. The middle-income segment remained a core strength of Filinvest Land’s residential portfolio that accounted for 73 percent of total residential revenues.
Filinvest Land’s industrial business reflects a growing demand and rising investor interest in this sector. The segment contributed P385 million in revenues during the first nine months of 2025, comprising P357 million from the sale of an industrial lot and P28 million in recurring revenues from rental of ready-built factory units. VG Cabuag
AYER AG posted an improvement in profit, helped by surprising strength at its crop science business and demand for new drugs.
Adjusted third-quarter earnings rose to €1.51 billion ($1.75 billion) before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, Bayer said Wednesday. That exceeded the €1.29 billion estimated by analysts.
Chief Executive Officer Bill Anderson is seeking to rebuild investor trust in Bayer, which is mired in mass litigation in the US over its Roundup weedkiller and other chemicals inherited as part of its 2018 Monsanto acquisition. He has pledged to significantly contain the legal troubles by the end of next year, while implementing an efficiency program that has already cut thousands of jobs. The latter has delivered “benefits on the top and bottom line,” Anderson said. Bayer shares rose as much as 2.1 percent in early German trading. The stock climbed 42 percent this year through Tuesday’s close as some analysts bet on a turnaround, though it remains far below its level before the Monsanto deal. While earnings topped estimates, sales rose less than expected, hurt by generic competition for some older drugs and weak demand at its consumer health unit. Bayer confirmed its 2025 group guidance, but trimmed its revenue forecast for at consumer health, its smallest unit, citing an “increasingly challenging market environment” in North America and Asia. It now expects currency-adjusted sales to range from a 1-percent decline to a 1-percent gain, down from a previous forecast for growth at the lower end of the 2 percent to 5 percent range. At the pharma unit, Bayer recorded strong demand for new kidney treatment Kerendia and cancer drug Nubeqa. However, sales for older medicines declined more than analysts had expected, with both blood thinner Xarelto and eye medicine Eylea posting double-digit declines due to generic competition. The company is banking on its new menopause drug Lynkuet, cleared by US regulators last month, to bolster revenue in the coming quarters. Bloomberg News
Festival Mall, complemented by improving occupancy across regional malls including Il Corso in Cebu, Main Square in Bacoor, and Filinvest Malls Dumaguete.
PHOTO FROM WWW.FILINVESTLEGACY.COM
MRI scanners on the production line at the Siemens Healthineers factory near Oxford, UK. BLOOMBERG
Financing: Green is the New Gold
Nday
how the Sierra Madre and other mountain ranges in Luzon weakened strong winds and heavy rains of Super Typhoon “Uwan” (international name Fung-wong) after it made landfall in Aurora last Sunday evening. This unbroken wall of mountains serves as natural barrier against typhoons and worst possible flooding but until when can they serve and save us if they are also suffering from abuse and neglect.
Continuing environmental degradation of our mountain ranges caused by illegal mining, massive quarrying among others is stripping more portions bare and causing deforestation. We have to play our part in protecting, preserving and conserving our natural resources.
We are reminded again about how crucial it is to incorporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations into our personal choices, and for corporations and financial institutions, into investment and financing decisions to promote climate resilience and long-term sustainability and national development. This is called sustainable financing.
Sustainable financing means allocating funds to sustainable activities such as mitigating ESG risks, investing in renewable energy projects, and aligning business returns and economic activities with sustainable development goals.
Sustainable financing also includes integration of ESG criteria in business decisions and practices, such as carbon emission reduction, and even social criteria like equitable labor practices and corporate governance criteria.
Banks nowadays have supported this through issuances of green bonds for their corporate clients, setting stricter lending criteria to comply with ESG standards, advising them with their net zero transition, supporting and financing their sustainable projects like renewable energy and clean technology.
Individually, we can contribute by reducing consumption and waste,
conserving resources and participating and local efforts such as clean-up drives, tree planting and the likes.
6th BMA set to announce winners ON November 28, winners of the 6th Bank Marketing Awards (BMA), a biennial awards program of the BMAP, is set to be announced in an awarding ceremony at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) complex in Malate, Manila.
BS Deputy Governor for Regional Operations and Advocacy Sector Bernadette Romulo-Puyat will be the keynote speaker and will hand over the trophies by Ronald Castrillo, a Filipino sculptor famous for his metalwork and expressive figurative artworks.
For this year’s BMA, seven banks will be recognized for their outstanding marketing and communication programs and campaigns for the following categories: Best Product Program; Best Brand Program; Best Electronic Channel Program; Best Digital Marketing Program; Best Financial Inclusion Program; Best Customer-Centric Product or Service; and, Best Sustainability Drive.
We thank our esteemed panel of judges: former BSP Deputy Governor Chuchi G. Fonacier; Grupo Agatep Chairman and CEO Norman A. Agatep; Hungry Workhorse Consultancy CEO Reynaldo C. Lugtu Jr.; and, Forest Foundation Philippines Board Member Ma. Aurora F. Tolentino for their participation. We also express gratitude to our sponsors GoTyme, LandBank, PNB, BDO, BPI, DBP and RCBC for the support.
Best of luck to all the participating banks, and let the awards ceremony be a celebration of everyone’s exceptional work and achievements.
Mai Gacilo Sangalang is the immediate past president of the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP) and currently the BMAP’s director for Industry Relations, Banking Code and Financial Inclusion. Sangalang is the Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing of Standard Chartered Bank Philippines. She can be reached by emailing maigsangalang@yahoo.com. The writer’s views do not necessarily reflect those of Standard Chartered Bank, the BusinessMirror and the BMAP.
Lower revenues pull down BSP’s net income in 8 mos
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
DECLINING expenses failed to improve the net income of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in the first eight months of the year as the central bank’s revenues also slipped.
Data from the BSP showed its net income declined by 17.70 percent to P86.9 billion from January to August 2025 from P105.6 billion in the same period in 2024. This comes after the central bank’s revenues dropped by 15.1
THE total premiums of the country’s insurance industry rose to P372.08 billion as of the end of September, as more Filipinos saw the importance of having financial protection, according to the Insurance Commission (IC).
Latest data from the IC showed premiums of life and non-life insurance companies, as well as mutual benefit associations (MBAs), went up by 13.25 percent to P372.08 billion as of end-September from P328.54 billion in the same period last year.
Broken down, insurance premiums paid for life insurance products grew 13.77 percent year-on-year to P299.45 billion from P263.21 billion.
The non-life sector also recorded a 13.07 percent growth as of end-
WHAT keeps the illicit tobacco trade burning in the Philippines is not the high tax rates, but weak enforcement and governance gaps, according to a new study by Action for Economic Reforms (AER) and Economics for Health of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
In a news briefing last Tuesday, AER Lead Researcher Daffodil Santillan reported that the smuggling of unregistered cigarette brands is most dominant in Mindanao, with hotspots in General Santos and Zamboanga, due to weak enforcement and geographical location.
Meanwhile, the prevalence of illicit cigarette sales in Luzon, Visayas and Metro Manila is low, but the violation of the legal floor price is more pronounced.
TBy Erwin James Gianan Intern
HE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) reported last Tuesday of having almost onboarded all of its members onto its mobile application “Touch.”
A statement issued by the state pension fund manager read that applications to the app surpassed two million registered users, more than halfway through to the GSIS’s target of 2.7 million members and pensioners.
“The milestone represents two million members who can now get the help they need without leaving their homes nor wait in line, [especially] when our members and pensioners need immediate, quick, and convenient access to services like emergency loans,” GSIS President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo A. Veloso was quoted in the statement as saying.
percent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) to P187 billion from P220.2 billion, as its miscellaneous income also declined.
The BSP’s miscellaneous income—which includes trading gains/losses, fees, penalties and other operating income, among oth-
September, increasing to P60.07 billion from P53.13 billion a year ago.
MBAs, meanwhile, collected P12.57 billion in contributions, 2.86 percent higher than the P12.22 billion recorded as of end-September 2024. The IC said both traditional and variable life insurance continued to be the main drivers of premium growth, rising by 9.7 percent and 16.0 percent, respectively.
“The accelerating growth in total premiums and other key statistical indicators underscores not only the increasing trust and recognition of the vital role insurance plays in economic resilience, but also, the stronger awareness among Filipinos on the value of financial protection,”
Insurance Commissioner Reynaldo
problem, not a matter of tax policy.
The government’s first step should be to assess the situation and take action to curb the spread of illicit tobacco activity in the region without reducing tax rates, Iglesias said.
“Reducing the rate is business for the big companies, because they don’t want to be taxed,” Iglesias said.
AER’s study recommended that a comprehensive and user-friendly trackand-trace system with physical and digital markers, independent of the tobacco industry, be adapted to monitor the movement, pricing and supply chain of tobacco products.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) should also be given the authority to suspend or close businesses for tax violations across all excisable products.
A. Regalado was quoted in a statement as saying. Despite the “notable expansion” in premium volume during the ninemonth period this year, the insurance penetration in the country only registered a 0.11-percentage-point increase.
Insurance penetration, or the insurance sector’s contribution to the national economy, inched up to 1.85 percent as of end-September 2025 from 1.74 percent in the same period last year.
Meanwhile, insurance density jumped by 12.30 percent to P3,267.91 per capita as of the third quarter this year, compared to the P2,910.10 a year ago.
Insurance density measures the
lier that the BIR’s excise tax collections from January to July this year reached P193.651 billion, with tobacco products contributing P94.458 billion. (See: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2025/09/08/7-mo-collection-hints-bir-to-exceed-tax-taketarget).
“Tobacco taxation remains a reliable source of funding for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) implementation in the Philippines. Globally, it also continues to be an effective strategy to discourage tobacco use, especially among young people,” Santillan said.
Latest data from the BIR showed that excise tax collections from tobacco products reached P106 billion as of end-September this year, up by 26 percent from P84 billion in the same period last year.
ratio of total premiums to the population or the average amount spent on insurance per person.
“This strong increase was fueled by a rise in total premiums that outpaced the population growth rate of 0.85 percent,” the IC said. As of end-September 2025, the insurance industry’s total assets posted a 4.73 percent increase to P2.62 trillion from P2.50 trillion a year earlier. Invested Assets maintained its upward trajectory, expanding by 2.92 percent year-on-year to P2.32 trillion from P2.26 trillion. The industry’s total net worth stood at P525.97 billion, up by 8.49 percent from P484.80 billion in the nine-month period in 2024.
from P449 million.
AER also called for tightening the coordination among the BIR, Bureau of Customs and local governments in enforcement hotspots and addressing illicit trade at its source by strengthening cooperation with neighboring countries through multilateral and bilateral agreements. The government was urged by AER to reject proposals to lower tobacco excise taxes, such as House Bill 11360, as tax rollbacks will reverse a decade of health and fiscal progress.
AER said that since 2012, tobacco tax reforms have reduced adult smoking prevalence from 29.7 percent in 2009 to 19.5 percent in 2021, while increasing revenue for health programs.
According to the GSIS, the achievement is a core component of its digital transformation initiative, which has since resulted in 99.6 percent of its services being digitized. The pension fund manager claims its digital-first approach has since reduced processing time by 77 percent.
The GSIS’s “Touch” app, launched in 2020 in response to the challenges brought by a government shutdown during the Covid-19 pandemic, provides paperless access to GSIS services. Through the app, members can apply for various loans, file claims, and track their status in real-time without paperwork or queues.
The app also generates a GSIS Digital ID, which replaces physical UMID cards, and serves as a valid proof of identity for transactions, according to the agency.
The GSIS attributed the app’s rapid adoption to innovations such as facial recognition technology, which protect members from fraud while simplifying processes such as the annual pensioners information revalidation.
Tobacco taxation expert and former World Bank senior economist Roberto Iglesias said during the same briefing that the government must tackle the country’s illicit tobacco trade and not reduce the cigarette tax rates.
“You have to act to prevent the dissemination of illicit trade,” Iglesias said, noting that smuggling in Mindanao is “more a local problem” than a national problem.
The issue in Mindanao, Iglesias said, is a governance and law enforcement
By Ada Pelonia
THE Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched a project aimed at protecting the Philippines’s wetlands, which serve as critical stopovers for migratory birds.
According to the ADB, the “Philippines Flyway Project” aims to enhance the conservation of vital wetland ecosystems that protect habitats for birds traveling along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF). The project also intends to enhance biodiversity, support sustainable livelihoods, and boost climate resilience for millions of Filipinos.
ADB said the project was funded by
“Our important recommendation is for the government to reject any attempt or pass legislation that lowers tobacco tax rates,” Santillan said.
“The BIR also said that concerns over below-target excise tax collections have already been addressed, even under the current tobacco tax policy,” Santillan added, noting that the agency exceeded its excise tax collection target in the first seven months of the year, largely driven by tobacco products.
The BusinessMirror reported ear -
a $3 million grant from the Global Environment Facility, a multilateral fund established in 1992 to help developing countries meet their international environmental obligations.
“Wetlands in our region face mounting threats from reclamation, degradation, and urban expansion, and the EAAF is considered the most threatened of the world’s major flyways,” ADB Vice-President for East and Southeast Asia and the Pacific Scott Morris said. “Through the project, [the] ADB and [the] DENR [Department of Environment and Natural Resources] are working together to protect, manage, and restore these critical ecosystems—helping communities and nature thrive.” The
“We’ve seen a drastic improvement as a result of our nationwide enforcements both on vapor products and tobacco cigarettes,” Internal Revenue Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. said during a briefing at the House of Representatives’ Committee on Ways and Means on Tuesday.
Lumagui reported that excise taxes collected from vape products also increased by 357.68 percent year-on-year to P2.055 billion as of end-September
project, to be implemented by the DENR, focuses on three priority wetlands: Candaba in Luzon and Lake Mainit and Sibugay Wetlands in Mindanao. According to the ADB, the project will strengthen the protection, management and restoration of degraded habitats in these wetlands. This move is expected to also build local capacity, enhance site management plans and promote sustainable livelihoods that align conservation with development goals, added the multilateral lender.
“Illicit tobacco trade is a clear danger. Yet, we see that its scale is relatively small—not as large as the [tobacco] industry might portray it,” AER senior economist Jo-Ann Diosana said during the briefing.
“Cutting taxes on cigarettes and vapes is not the answer. Instead, the solution lies in strengthening tobacco taxation and enforcing existing laws. We call on legislators to address trade with the health of the Filipinos in mind, top priority, not the interests of a very few,” Diosana added. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
The ADB noted that the Philippines Flyway Project is part of its “Regional Flyway Initiative (RFI),” which was launched in 2021 to mobilize $3 billion over the next decade across 11 developing countries in Asia and the Pacific to conserve priority wetlands along the EAAF. “The RFI aims to develop long-term financing models that boost community resilience through nature-based solutions to extreme weather disasters, such as those recently experienced in central Philippines.” The ADB said over 20 migratory waterbird species depend on wetlands in the
Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
Health&Fitness
Wellness redefined: The Medical City South Luzon launches its new Wellness and Lifestyle Center
By Candy P. Dalizon Contributor
THE Medical City South Luzon (TMCSL) proudly announces the opening of its new Wellness and Lifestyle Center, an advanced facility designed to offer comprehensive, preventive, and diagnostic healthcare services in a single convenient location. This center is a direct manifestation of the hospital’s larger vision: to serve as a driving force for community development, moving beyond disease treatment to actively champion wellness and preventive medicine.
“We actually thought of the idea before Covid happened. TMC South Luzon is all about taking the lead and pioneering. And that’s why, after Covid and after going through that dark era, we revived the idea of wellness,” said Dr. Cesar Ramon G. Espiritu, President and CEO of TMCSL.
“Wellness should be more proactive and preventive. And we were not satisfied with providing it. We wanted to promote it,” he continued, adding that the hospital regularly conducts community visits to understand local health needs and educate residents on preventive care, ensuring wellness remains at the forefront of its mission.
Non-communicable illnesses
DR . Lemuel del Rosario, Director of the new Wellness and Lifestyle Center, shared that in the province of Laguna, approximately 80 percent of the problem are non-communicable illnesses. Hypertension, diabetes, and cancer are major diseases claiming approximately 50 lives daily, a tragedy that is not inevitable. This high death rate is completely avoidable, as these conditions are driven by risk factors that can be modified and prevented.
“Wellness is more of staying healthy. And lifestyle is making it a habit. This is not just a one-shot deal that you do every year or else this would be an annual physical examination. That is the value that we give, that we doctors
Why
would inform them so that they would be motivated,” said Dr. del Rosario.
“And we believe that your personal experience, your personal wellness would translate to community wellness. Whether it be inspiring your family members, your co-workers, your community with what you do and with what you have experienced,” he added.
World-class Hospital
THE new Wellness and Lifestyle Center brings together multi-disciplinary expertise, modern technology, world-class facilities, and patientcentered care. The center provides comprehensive wellness check packages (executive checkups), advanced medical and lifestyle assessments, personalized medical consultations, aesthetic services, and a full range of laboratory and imaging diagnostics. In addition, it offers customized health and weight management programs for both young and senior adults, ensuring individual needs are met.
“The opening of the One Stop Wellness and Lifestyle Center is part of TMCL’s efforts to be -
body maintenance matters more than a quick fix
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
IN a world where overworking has become a badge of honor, the body is often the first casualty.
Stiff necks, sore backs, and that constant heaviness at the end of the day. Many have learned to live with them, calling it “part of the job.”
But Hanna Stelton, General Manager of Karada Philippines, has a more grounded take: health should not be something you schedule only when pain forces you to.
“Karada has to be a regular thing. You have to have that habit to actually go, because the tendency of you going back to your normal or regular posture will always be there,” Stelton told BusinessMirror in an exclusive interview. Since arriving in the Philippines in 2012, Karada, Japan’s leading wellness and body therapy brand, has introduced Filipinos to a different kind of self-care, one rooted in seitai or body maintenance.
Continuous care
THE company’s philosophy treats the body as something that needs continuous care, not one-time repair.
Its signature AP Balance® therapy, developed in Japan, combines chiropractic, osteopathy, and deep muscle techniques to correct posture, relieve pain, and restore natural balance.
The method dated back to Yuki Koyasu, Karada’s founder, who created it after a car accident left him in chronic pain that conventional treatments couldn’t fix.
By focusing on the Atlas (upper back and neck) and Pelvis (lower spine), the system corrects misalignments that often cause headaches, fatigue, and restricted movement.
From a single branch established in Japan in 2001, Karada had grown to over 300 branches nationwide, with a steadily expanding presence across Southeast Asia and the Middle East, including 17 in the Philippines, all upholding the same Japanese standard of precision and care.
A practice in consistency
UNLIKE a typical massage, Karada’s therapy does not aim for instant relaxation. It is built on prevention and rehabilitation, addressing recurring discomforts such as scoliosis, spondylosis, frozen shoulder, and sciatica.
“Karada is a form of body maintenance called seitai that your body needs,” Stelton explained.
“It is ideal for people who suffer from body fatigue, poor posture, back or neck pain, muscle tightness, or stress-related discomfort.”
Each treatment begins with a consultation and assessment to determine the client’s condition and mobility.
Depending on the results, therapists use a combination of gentle mobilization, stretching, and dry massage techniques aimed at restoring circulation and releasing tension throughout the body.
Specialized treatments
KARADA’S services include not only its signature AP Balance Body Treatment—an adjustment that targets the neck and pelvis to correct misalignments—but also specialized body, foot, and stretch treatments, as well as facial contouring (kogao), which combine physical therapy with posture and lifestyle education.
Together, these therapies promote better alignment, relaxation, and overall balance while preventing pain from recurring.
“Karada is not a medical clinic. It doesn’t cure diseases or injuries in the medical sense,” Stelton clarified.
Rather, it offers preventive and supportive therapy, a natural form of relief for people dealing with the long-term effects of misalignment.
Correcting problems at the roots
SENSEI Hiroaki Naruse, Regional Manager and Head Trainer for the Philippines, said the approach corrects problems at their roots.
“If there is AP misalignment, it causes chronic pain, poor posture, mobility issues, and fatigue,” he said.
“Cracking is not the purpose of the treatment. It is just a natural sound that could occur during alignment but was not required. The key goal is alignment and muscle balance.”
Therapists are trained directly under Hiroaki and Assistant Head Trainer Iku Sumiya, both certified in Japan.
To maintain results, Stelton advised clients to have regular sessions—once a week for the first eight to correct imbalances, then once or twice a month for maintenance.
“Consistency is key to prevent recurring discomfort. Karada has been in the Philippines for over 13 years and has helped address our clients’ pains through exceptional training and genuine service,” she said.
She added that the discipline of balance extended beyond the clinic walls.
come a world-class hospital,” said Dr. Espiritu.
The new center, located on the seventh floor, ensures a seamless patient experience by placing all essential health and wellness services under one roof. Designed with biophilic principles, the facility brings the tranquility of nature indoors. Guests are treated to expansive views of Laguna’s landscape and Mount Makiling through large glass windows, while the natural light creates a relaxing ambiance throughout the lounge, consultation rooms, and suites. This unique setting promises an environment built for comfort, healing, and thriving, where cutting-edge medical expertise meets serene surroundings.
The center’s location within the hospital facility offers key benefits compared to standalone wellness centers or clinics.
“This is a level up wellness. Level up in the sense that, if you need additional tests like colonoscopy or a low-dose CT scan, these services are available within the hospital. We can refer patients to specialized doctors or consultants and we can immediately guide the patient on
the next steps if we detect any findings,” said Dr. Earl Richardson Chua, TMCSL Chief Medical Officer. Rea Manalili, head of Sales, Business Development and Operations (TMCSL), noted that coordination is seamless thanks to their Red Coat Ambassadors, who are dedicated to assisting patients across the entire hospital facility, including those in the new Wellness and Lifestyle Center.
Smart Wing
THE Laguna area where TMC South Luzon is situated is rapidly thriving due to its unique blend of urban accessibility and provincial tranquility. This balance, coupled with excellent housing and lifestyle amenities, attracts both young families who value access to nature and modern facilities near major road networks and a growing senior population seeking a relaxed yet active retirement supported by community services.
“And that’s why, seeing that, we had to keep up with the development of the hospital and healthcare facility. So what did we do? We had to create something that nobody else had yet. And that is the Smart Wing,” said Dr. Espiritu.
The Wellness floor also features the Smart Wing, which houses newly constructed deluxe and presidential suites. These rooms are equipped with advanced nursing call systems and hotel-style amenities, catering to clients who choose overnight stays for comprehensive check-ups or simply prefer spacious accommodations with integrated smart technology.
TMCSL leaders believe that with their expert medical team and commitment to patient comfort, convenience, and individualized care, the new Wellness and Lifestyle Center will lead the region in wellness and preventive health services. For inquiries or to schedule an appointment, please contact TMCSL Customer Care at (049) 303-3000 or via mobile at 0920-981-4454, or send an email to tmcsl-customercare@themedicalcity.com.
Food safety is the new standard for Filipino pork lovers
By Rory Visco Contributor
FOR years, pork has been at the heart of the Filipino dining table—from the weekend Pork Sinigang or Pork Adobo to lechon feasts. But when the African Swine Fever (ASF) crisis shook the country’s livestock industry, it also rattled public trust. “Where does our meat come from?” or “How safe is the pork we eat?” are some of the tougher questions that lingered on consumers’ minds.
More Filipinos are now more cautious about the food on their plates, where “food safety” has become both a public health issue and test of trust. The country’s appetite for pork remains strong, but the demand for assurance has also increased. Health and safety for food consumption is now a top-of-mind choice among many Filipinos so the demand for traceable, premium-quality food such as pork has grown. That is why consumers and food service operators continue to keep an eye out for suppliers who can guarantee both flavor and more importantly, peace of mind.
Safety that can be tasted
ONE unlikely name is slowly gaining attention and that is Belgium pork. Pork producers from that Western European nation have built their reputation not just on taste but also on trust. Belgian farms operate under the European Union’s (EU) “farm-tofork” food safety system. This is a rigorous framework where every step of production, from breeding and feed quality to processing, storage, and shipment, is carefully monitored.
Each animal is tagged and traceable so authorities can track each cut of Belgian pork to the exact farm where it was raised. This openness builds a sense of trust in today’s global food system that’s still finding its footing after years of supply chain disruptions and food safety concerns.
The Belgian Meat Office (BMO), which coordinates the international promotion of Belgian pork, explained that food safety is not just about preventing contamination but also about building trust through full transparency and strict adherence to EU protocols. The BMO reiterated that every piece of pork that leaves Belgium is traceable and produced under health-focused, welfare-oriented standards designed to safeguard the wellbeing of consumers.
The European Standard:
A health benchmark
BELGIUM’s commitment to strict EU food safety standards also means that antibiotics, hormones and additives are tightly controlled, often at higher
levels than worldwide averages. Farms are inspected regularly by government and independent veterinarians, with animal-welfare practices being a part of the country’s meat p roduction philosophy.
Meat quality is directly impacted by animal health, as experts have long noted. Meat not under stress are deemed cleaner-tasting, leaner, with better nutritional profiles since it contains more high-quality protein and less unwanted fat. Welfare practices like balanced diets, low stress conditions, and meticulous breeding have long been used by Belgian producers so meat is healthier for consumers.
Belgian pork is valued for its dependability rather than its luxury when “premium” frequently means “imported.” Health-conscious Filipino households can relate to Belgium’s transparent production systems, which provide a model of responsible, health-conscious meat production.
Safer future for pork lovers
EARLIER this year, more than half of all meat imports were pork, making the Philippines one of Southeast Asia’s biggest pork consumers. However, the need for safe, high-quality imports remains vital as the country’s pork producers’ recovery from ASF continues to pose a challenge to domestic supply.
The emphasis on sustainability, safety, and traceability in Belgian pork provides a comforting response. Its rigorous adherence to international standards assures customers of guaranteed quality and health rather than just imported meat.
Health advocates note that better food safety isn’t just an individual concern but already a public health matter. Contaminated or poorly regulated meat can spread “zoonotic,” or those transmissible between animals and humans, diseases and foodborne illnesses. Thus, importing meat from countries with proven safety systems helps strengthen the overall safety net for Filipino consumers.
Beyond trade but a matter of trust
THE strategy of Belgium for producing pork emphasizes a broader point for the contemporary Filipino table: quality and health can coexist. Although pork is becoming more and more popular worldwide, consumers are no longer content with “cheap and plenty.” They want to know what’s on their plate and are prepared to forego shortcuts in favor of safety.
The message of Belgian pork is unmistakable: the foundation of good health is quality.
Eating well isn’t just about indulgence but also about assurance, as more Filipino families rediscover confidence in the food they serve. Belgian pork is demonstrating that the healthiest meals begin with transparency in a world where people value food trust just as much as they value taste.
By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes Contributor
DESPITE the rising costs for medical emergencies, only 20 percent of Filipinos have enough emergency funds to cover expenses for more than three months.
According to the Purple Report, many Filipinos only have savings of up to P50,000, an amount that is not enough to cover unexpected expenses. The Purple Report reveals the state of financial preparedness among Filipinos. It is a study commissioned by EastWest Ageas insurance and was conducted by NielsenIQ, a global consumer intelligence company.
For the majority of Filipinos, longterm financial planning often takes a backseat as 30 percent of their salaries go to basic household expenses.
“This makes it difficult for people to set aside funds for a rainy day, as a huge chunk of their budget goes to day-to-day concerns like food, rent, transportation, and mortgage,” EastWest Ageas said.
Stay prepared NEVERTHELESS, Filipinos still recognize it is important to stay prepared, as it can ease their worries about unexpected situations. In fact, 52 percent are concerned about the health of their loved ones, and 24 percent worry about critical illnesses and the large medical expenses tied to them.
Based on a recently released study from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), ischemic heart disease is the number one cause of death in the country. However, the average Filipino would not be able to shoulder this, with the average treatment cost of more than P690,000. While government-mandated health and welfare services may cover this, their assistance does not extend to the breadwinner’s possible loss of income. This leaves Filipinos without the adequate buffer they need to recover financially. Despite growing awareness to prepare for emergencies, getting started is far from easy, as Filipinos still need to plan around their current day-today needs.
How ready are Filipinos to be ready? ACCORDING to the PURPLE Report, Filipinos become better financial planners as they grow older. Some Filipinos aged 40 and above have reported that they have more than three months’ worth of emergency funds. This trend reflects an improved financial stability as Filipinos age, especially since younger groups report that they have a shorter financial buffer than their older counterparts. However, the journey towards financial preparedness faces several challenges such as economic pressures like inflation and income instability. To get through emergencies, Filipinos would often rely on their personal savings, receive support from their families and communities, and take out loans from informal channels.
While these highlight Filipinos’ innate resilience, resourcefulness, and generosity, they study said they also show their vulnerability when emergencies arise. “Thus, Filipinos need the extra support to help them get through these struggles without compromising their goals,” the company said.
Rising to the readiness challenge WHILE Filipinos are practical, the report urged them not to have to forego financial planning to prioritize current needs.
“Both should come hand-in-hand, partnered with the right tools and financial literacy programs, tailored insurance solutions, and inclusive savings programs, “the insurance firm said.
“The challenge of readiness can be addressed with education, access, and empathy. Every Filipino deserves to have a life that is secure, access to effective and affordable healthcare, and wealth that works for them. By aligning services and solutions with people’s financial needs, more Filipinos can think
Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz
THE waiting area
Manila joins Ocean Cleanup’s 30 Cities Program global effort to combat undersea plastic pollution
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
THE Philippine capital has been included in the 30 Cities Program of The Ocean Cleanup (TOC)—a global initiative aimed at drastically reducing plastic waste flowing from rivers into the world’s international waters.
The program led by the Rotterdambased nonprofit seeks to deploy its Interceptor technologies in 30 strategic cities across Asia and the Americas by 2030.
“We are pleased that [TOC] is bringing its science-based solutions and im-
pactful programs to the Philippines,” Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya said during a diplomatic briefing hosted by the organization on October 30 at the Carlton Ambassador Hotel in The Hague. “We look forward to the [Interceptors’ deployment] in the Pasig
and Meycauayan Rivers, which will help improve water quality, protect aquatic life, and reduce plastic pollution in Manila Bay.” TOC is currently working with the Department of Environment and
Natural Resources and the Municipality of Meycauayan in Bulacan in assessing river sites and finalizing arrangements.
Preliminary research and data analysis are underway in both Manila and Cebu, through Energies PH during the program’s early engagement phase.
The Philippines is among the world’s top contributors to oceanic plastic waste, generating some 2.7 million tons annually, with about 20 percent ending up in the ocean because of inadequate recycling and waste management systems.
Single-use plastics—especially sachets used for everyday products— make up nearly three-fourths of household waste and are neither compostable nor recyclable.
Malaya emphasized the need for sustainable alternatives to plastic packaging and called for the adoption
Partnering with Taiwan: Path for PHL to break cycle of climate-disaster loss
By Representative Wallace Minn-Gan Chow
ITaipei Economic and Cultural
in the Philippines
Office
N recent times, the Philippines has endured a relentless procession of storms. Wipha (Crising) in July submerged entire communities in Northern Luzon. Ragasa (Nando) and Bualoi (Opong) arrived back-toback in late September which brought heavy flooding and forced thousands into evacuation across Eastern Visayas. Last week, Kalmaegi (Tino) triggered landslides and flooded swaths of Central Philippines, which reportedly killed hundreds of people and countless others displaced. Homes were swept away, rice fields nearing harvest were drowned, and local governments once again scrambled to source relief, rebuild roads, and restore electricity, among others. Early this week, Fung-wong (Uwan) raged through the entire archipelago, and wrought even more havoc. This story repeats so often that it risks becoming background noise. Yet the cost is staggering, not only in monetary terms or disrupted livelihoods, but also in the exhaustion of constant rebuilding. The 2025 World Risk Index report has named the country as the most disaster-prone in the world, with its adaptation capacity struggling to keep pace with the speed of global warming.
Reliable disaster-resilience partner
Supporting Taiwan’s COP30 participation AS the world prepares for the 30th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP 30) in Belém, Brazil this month, Taiwan remains excluded from this major climate-governance mechanism.
Taiwan has voluntarily aligned its climate commitments with the Paris Agreement; operates the world’s most advanced climate monitoring satellites and has enforceable legislation supporting its 2050 net-zero transition.
of paper grocery bags. He also highlighted national and local efforts in combating plastic pollution—including the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (Republic Act 9003), the Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022 (RA 11898), and communityled initiatives.
The Department of Foreign Affairs is actively supporting the proposed Global Plastic Treaty, which aims to set ambitious targets for plastic reduction.
The United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France launched the TOC’s 30 Cities Program and builds on the organization’s success in cleaning the Great Pacific Garbage Patch—an area with over 100 million kilograms of floating plastic. The initiative combines data-driven cleanup, monitoring by artificial intelligence, and community engagement to maximize environmental and social impact.
During the briefing, experts from the nonprofit presented strategies for sustainable waste management and river cleanup, including insights from River Survey Engineer Thaine Assumpcao, Environmental Manager Gabriela Alvarez, Waste Manager Nadhira Sagita Putri, and Global Director of Public Affairs Monty Simus, who recently visited Manila. TOC’s Global Public Affairs Specialist Rosa Heuveling van Beek facilitated the session. Founded in 2013 by Dutch inventor and entrepreneur Boyan Slat, TOC operates in eight countries including Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Its mission is to rid the world’s oceans of plastic by intercepting waste before it reaches marine ecosystems. With Manila now part of the ambitious global effort, the city takes a significant step toward cleaner waterways and a more sustainable future.
KOICA lays groundwork for PHL’s integrated water resources mngt
RANKED as the world’s most disaster-prone country for 16 consecutive years by the World Risk Index, the Philippines faces an average of 20 typhoons annually, along with frequent floods and droughts that affect millions.
WHILE we can consider disasters as natural, loss is not. Rain, earthquakes, and typhoons are normal in our region. What turns natural events into national tragedies is insufficient preparation and systemic fragility. Over the decades, through repeated climate impact, Taiwan has forged battle-tested mechanisms such as a nationwide emergency response system, strict seismic and flood-resilient building standards, advanced warning systems and annual disaster preparedness drills.
Further, the international outreach has proven Taiwan’s strengths in disaster preparedness and response: Our search-and-rescue teams assisted in global disaster zones, including the 2023 Türkiye earthquake.
Across the Bashi Channel, Taiwan experiences these same typhoons, floods, and landslides, but it has systematically built a more robust resilience that can share with the Philippines.
Through the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, Taiwan has spent nearly two decades advancing emergency preparedness across the region.
The Global Cooperation and Training Framework hosted by Taiwan has facilitated disaster resilience workshops with over 30 participating countries. Its National Science and Technology Center for Disaster Reduction has helped implement flood early-warning systems in Belize, Palau, India, and Indonesia, combining river sensors, forecasting, evacuation planning, and community drills.
Climate change is a pressing problem that requires concerted, collaborative action. The Philippines needs the technical cooperation, training networks, and standardized disastergovernance models that Taiwan has already refined. We are also willing to share with the Philippines our operational, technology-backed, community-rooted expertise.
A climate summit that excludes Taiwan—a country that demonstrates climate solutions—is a summit weakened.
Shared risks require shared action
TAIWAN and the Philippines are neighbors not only in geography, but in climate destiny. Supporting our meaningful participation in global climate governance is not geopolitics— it is practical climate survival.
If the Philippines is to break the cycle of destruction and rebuilding, it needs partners who understand not just the science, but the storm. Taiwan is one of those partners, and we stand ready to help.
Storms do not ask for visas, and floods do not stop at borders; yet, resilience is always stronger when it is shared. I therefore call on our Filipino friends to support Taiwan’s bid to participate in COP30, and to join hands with us in building a climate-resilient future for our region.
To build resilience against these threats, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has been implementing the Capacity Building for Integrated Water Resources Management and Sustainable Development Project since 2021. This initiative addresses the urgent need for an integrated approach to water governance, guided by key national strategies such as the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, National Climate Change Action Plan 2011-2028, and Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan.
The $2.5-million project contributed to the delivery of water supply, sanitation, irrigation and flood control services under the Integrated Water Resources Management framework by enhancing the technical and institutional capacities of Philippine water agencies.
Implemented by Yooshin Engineering Corporation and Dongbu Engineering, the project commenced with a comprehensive assessment of the country’s water landscape. This foundation enabled the identification of key development initiatives across water policy, resources management, flood control, irrigation, and water supply and sanitation, culminating in a mid- to long-term roadmap for bilateral water cooperation. Through a series of training programs in Korea and local workshops, participating officials gained practical insights into Korea’s integrated water management systems and policy frameworks. In partnership with the Department of Economy, Planning and
Development or DEPDev, KOICA extended support to key Philippine agencies such as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Water Resources Management Office, Department of Public Works and Highways, National Water Resources Board, National Irrigation Administration, and Local Water Utilities Administration to strengthen their capacities in sustainable and integrated water-resource management. At the recent Project Completion and Closing Ceremony, senior officials and technical representatives from the six partner agencies presented their key achievements, institutional priorities, and proposed follow-up initiatives to sustain the project’s momentum. The discussions underscored the importance of cross-agency collaboration to ensure effective water governance.
Country Director Jung Young-sun of KOICA Philippines emphasized the long-term vision of the initiative: “We hope that the governance framework established through this project will serve as a foundation for the Philippines’ integrated water management. Beyond capacity building, this project has laid the institutional groundwork for sustainable implementation.” By strengthening policy, institutional, and human capacities, the project directly advanced Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Further, it is expected to support the Philippine government’s sustainable implementation of integrated water resources management through the Mid- to Long-Term Roadmap, serving as a foundation of a unified water governance and improved transparency and efficiency in water resource management.
Israeli Embassy honors Filipino victims & survivors of October 7 Hamas attack
THE Embassy of Israel in Manila, in partnership with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), held a solemn ceremony in Makati City to mark two years since the October 7 Hamas attack in the “Holy Land.”
Upon entering the venue, guests were welcomed by an exhibition dedicated to the women heroes of October 7—”ordinary women who showed extraordinary courage during the attacks,” according to the embassy. Among those honored was Filipino caregiver Camille Jesalva-Junio, whose bravery and compassion became a symbol of resilience and hope. The ceremony paid tribute to Angelyn Aguirre, Loreta Alacre, Grace Cabrera, and Paul Vincent Castelvi: overseas Filipino workers who were
killed while protecting those under their care. Also honored were Cydrick Garin who was a Filipino-Israeli soldier in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) killed in action, and Leah Mosquera who was injured by an Iranian missile during Operation: Rising Lion, then later passed away from her injuries. The ceremony also recognized the heroism of two survivors for their courage and endurance: Gelienor “Jimmy” Pacheco who was held captive by Hamas for 49 days, and Jesalva-Junio.
Pacheco shared his harrowing experience in captivity, as he survived days without food and endured extreme conditions in underground tunnels—at times resorting to eating tissue just to stay alive. He expressed gratitude to the governments of Israel and the Philippines for their unwavering support, then
shared that he named his newborn daughter “Israela” as a tribute to resilience and the enduring friendship between Filipinos and Israelis. Ambassador Dana Kursh led the rites alongside Secretary Hans
Leo Cacdac of DMW and Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan of OWWA. During the program, Cacdac presented Kursh with a Tagalog translation of One Day in October: a joint initiative of the embassy and
the DMW. The book features Jesalva-Junio’s personal account of the attack, developed in collaboration with the Commission on the Filipino Language. The translated edition includes stories of heroism; among them, her courageous act of saving herself and Nitza, an elderly Israeli under her care.
Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan of the OWWA reflected on the quiet strength of Filipino heroism. She sincerely thanked the government and people of Israel: “Thank you for the friendship, the care, the assistance, the respect given to our overseas Filipino workers. In moments of crisis, real friendship is measured not in words but in action, and we acknowledge that support.”
Cacdac also paid tribute to Filipino caregivers whom he described as “symbols of unmatched heroism and
sacrifice.” He emphasized that their decision to stay with their patients during the attack reflected the deep compassion and professionalism of Filipino workers abroad. “They chose to stay, to protect, and to serve. That is the Filipino spirit.” Kursh expressed her deep gratitude to those who honored the victims and survivors: “I’m wishing each and every one of you to heal, to keep on hoping, to keep on praying for peace, and to keep the unity of all of us fighting for peace. We must continue to defeat terrorism and hold on to hope, heroism, and healing.” For the embassy, the ceremony served as “a powerful moment of remembrance, unity, and reaffirmation of the strong bond between Israel and the Philippines, built on compassion, courage, and a shared pursuit of peace.”
CHOW and the logo as Taiwan’s pitch to participate in the COP 30
AMBASSADOR of the Philippines to The Hague J. Eduardo Malaya
KOICA, DEPDev, DENR, DPWH, NWRB, NIA and LWUA participants
AMBASSADOR Dana Kursh
PhilHealth Guarantees Quality Care with Eye Surgery New Guidelines
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has issued guidelines on Pterygium Excision with Graft and Ocular Surface Reconstructive Surgeries (OSR).
Pterygium, most commonly known as “pugita sa mata,” is a triangular, fleshy, fibrovascular sheet originating from the conjunctiva and extending to the corneal limbus and beyond.
A study by the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) found that about two percent of new eye patients were diagnosed with pterygium, mostly aged around 47 years, with slightly more women (53 percent) affected. Nearly half had growth in both eyes, and 42 percent worked outdoors, exposing them to sunlight and dust, which are key risk factors. Most patients sought consultation due to visible eye growth, and doctors recommended surgical removal with conjunctival grafting to prevent recurrence and protect vision.
Surgery is necessary when it causes vision problems, irritation and among others. To ensure patient safety and effective treatment, quality measures such as accredited facilities, qualified surgeons, proper surgical techniques, and postoperative care must be observed. This policy aims to standardize care, prevent complications, and promote consistent, high-quality eye health services for all PhilHealth members.
PhilHealth Circular No. 2025-0021, effective November 15, 2025, is a new policy that sets clear quality standards and clinical guidelines for the treatment of pterygium. This initiative aims to ease the burden of Filipinos with this condition, reflecting the health agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
“This is our way of ensuring that to
ensure that every PhilHealth member receives the highest possible standard of eye care,” said Dr. Edwin M. Mercado, President and CEO of PhilHealth. “We are collaborating with expert doctors and are further strengthening our monitoring systems to successfully fulfill PhilHealth’s mandate to deliver quality benefits,” he added.
Developed in consultation with experts from the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO) and the Philippine Cornea Society, Inc. (PCSI), the policy focuses on quality of care and patient safety and ensures that surgical procedures received by members meet the latest, high standards of care applicable in the local settings.
PhilHealth currently covers pterygium excision with graft for (RVS 65426) and
P59,085 for ocular surface reconstruction (RVS 65780, 65781, 65782).
Under the new policy, PhilHealth will implement a maximum claim limit for eye surgeons to help ensure patient safety and proper utilization of benefits. This limit does not apply to procedures performed by residents-in-training in accredited government and private health facilities with a Philippine Board of Ophthalmology (PBO)-accredited residency training program, thereby promoting continuous quality training standards.
PhilHealth encourages members and healthcare providers to familiarize themselves with PhilHealth Circular No. 2025-0021 to ensure full compliance and proper utilization of benefits. The new policy is downloadable in www.philhealth.gov.ph.
Queen’s Wellness and Beauty Center Celebrates 6th anniversary with gala night
QUEEN’S Wellness and Beauty Center celebrated a remarkable milestone as it marked its 6th Anniversary with a Gala Night held on October 28, 2025, at Marquis Events Place, Bonifacio Global City (BGC)
The elegant affair gathered clients, doctors, celebrities, social media influencers, and employees in a night that reflected Queen’s steadfast commitment to beauty, wellness, and excellence.
Queens Wellness and Beauty Center is a one-stop aesthetic beauty center that offers services ranging from manicures, pedicures to beauty drips and surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures.
Since its founding, Queen’s has grown into one of the country’s most trusted names in aesthetics, empowering clients to look and feel their best through cutting-edge treatments, expert care, and genuine service.
One of the highlights of the evening was the launch of the Queen’s Membership Card, a premium rewards program that offers loyal clients exclusive privileges and personalized benefits.
The membership program features three tiers, Emerald Queen, Diamond Queen, and Crown Queen, each granting access to premium services, special discounts, and VIP treatment at all Queen’s Wellness and Beauty Center branches.
Guests enjoyed access to special one-night-only promotions on some of Queen’s most popular and advanced treatments, including:
Queen’s Slim (Mounjaro) – A revolutionary weight loss program
Queen Lift (Endolift) – A nonsurgical facial lifting and skin-tightening procedure
Fotona SarWalker MAXQ – Advanced laser technology for skin rejuvenation and pigment correction
Laser Procedures, Hair and Make-up Services – Offered at special rates for the night These exclusive offers reflect Queen’s
commitment to making advanced beauty and wellness solutions more accessible to clients who value quality, safety, and results.
Adding star power to the celebration, celebrities Inah De Belen, Elmo Magalona, and Arkin Magalona joined the Celebrity Talk Segment, where they shared their personal beauty and wellness journeys with Queen’s.
In a candid and engaging conversation with the host, the trio talked about their favorite treatments and experiences, giving guests an inspiring look into the transformative and confidence-boosting effects of Queen’s expert care.
Recognizing that success is built on teamwork and passion, Queen’s also held an Employee Recognition and Awards segment to honor the dedication and contributions of its staff — the true pillars behind the brand’s continued growth and excellence.
Employees joined in the evening’s glamor with the Best Dressed Award, celebrating creativity, confidence, and elegance during the gala.
To make the night even more memorable, guests enjoyed interactive activities, including a Hashtag Contest that encouraged attendees to share their
Casa de Memoria Welcomes the Season with ‘Casa: The Holiday Auction 032’
CASA de Memoria, the country’s premier European auction house under Palacio de Memoria, marked the holiday season with a special press preview for its “Casa: The Holiday Auction 032” held on November 6, 2025, at Palacio de Memoria, Roxas Boulevard, Parañaque City. The event showcased the much-anticipated pieces featured in its holiday auction later in the month.
The afternoon gathering welcomed members of the press, art patrons, and collectors for an exclusive first look at the curated collection personally chosen by Casa de Memoria Director and General Manager Angelique Lhuillier and Camille Lhuillier-Albani, who led guests through a narrative of craftsmanship, heritage, and timeless artistry.
“This season’s collection was inspired by the idea of thoughtful giving, pieces that were not only beautiful but meaningful,” shared Lhuillier, noting that the auction embodied Casa’s signature mix of European elegance and historical depth. “Each lot was a story waiting to be rediscovered and passed on as a gift of legacy.”
Lhuillier-Albani added, “We wanted this auction to feel like unwrapping history, where every piece, from a handcrafted frame to a fine silver set, held both beauty and sentiment. It was our way of bringing the spirit of the holidays into the world of collecting.”
The Holiday Auction 032 featured an array of exceptional pieces, including a Louis XV Cabinet adorned with intricate marquetry, a Louis XVI-style Secrétaire, and a 19th-century French Rococo gilt mirror, each reflecting the refined artistry of its time. Other highlights included a set of Swan Porcelain Planters from Antonio Zen, a Chinese Imari Charger depicting clashing dragons, and a pair of sterling silver pheasants symbolizing craftsmanship and luxury.
Beyond décor, Casa’s holiday auction celebrated art as
experiences online, and a Raffle Draw where lucky winners received exclusive Queen’s treatment packages — adding fun and excitement to the elegant celebration.
More than just an anniversary, the 6th Anniversary Gala served as a heartfelt tribute to Queen’s loyal clients, partners, and employees, celebrating their shared journey of growth, innovation, and success.
In her message during the event, Mary Grace Juliano, CEO and Founder of Queen’s Wellness and Beauty Center, expressed her gratitude and optimism for the future:
“Six years ago, Queen’s began with a dream — to redefine beauty and wellness by empowering people to feel confident in their own skin. Tonight’s celebration is not only a reflection of how far we’ve come, but also of the trust and love we’ve received from our clients and team. As we move forward, we remain committed to innovation, compassion, and excellence — because every client deserves to be treated like royalty.”
As Queen’s Wellness and Beauty Center enters a new chapter, it continues to uphold its mission of empowering beauty and confidence through world-class treatments and exceptional service — redefining what it truly means to look and feel like a Queen.
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Fastfest 2025 unlocks the spirit of speed, performance in Davao
THE roar of engines and the thrill of speed took center stage for
“Fasftest: Unlock Your Speed in Davao,” held last October 25 to 26, 2025, at SM Lanang. The two-day event brought together motorcycle enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and speed junkies in a celebration of speed and performance, serving as a perfect platform to introduce Yamaha’s powerful machines to the Mindanao market, further strengthening Yamaha’s presence in the region.
Adding to the adrenaline rush, Davaoenos were treated to a spectacular exhibition performance by Yamaha Philippines Racing Team stars Mckinley Kyle Paz and hometown hero April King Mascardo who joined forces with two YClub members for the Fastfest Race that astonished the crowd and showcased the powerful performance of the all-new Aerox SP. But the event wasn’t just about showcasing speed; it was about experiencing it. The Speed Test Ride transformed the Parking Lot in SM Lanang into a thrilling racetrack course, giving the customers a firsthand taste of
precision engineering. Meanwhile, the indoor booth displays showcased Yamaha’s latest lineup of powerfocused machines: the Sniper 155, the R-series with R15M, R3, R7, and R1M, and the all-new Aerox and Aerox SP, creating an immersive experience that blends technology, design, and performance. The Fastfest in Davao underscored Yamaha’s commitment to delivering excellence, excitement, and the true spirit of performance and speed to Filipino riders. This also served as a testament that the passion for speed continues to thrive in Mindanao, fueling a community driven by the spirit of thrill and excitement.
YES, YOU DO NEED TO CLEAN YOUR WATER BOTTLE. HERE’S WHY AND HOW
By Adithi Ramakrishnan The Associated Press
NEW YORK—You keep your trusty reusable bottle filled with only clear, delicious water. Do you still need to wash it?
Experts say reusable bottles get grubby no matter what liquid they’re filled with, and it’s important to clean them regularly.
Water bottles pick up germs from our mouths when we take a sip, and from our hands when we touch the straw or lid. They’re covered in tiny, toughto-reach nooks and crannies which can become breeding grounds for mold, bacteria and other microbes if left un-scrubbed.
“It seems like something mundane, but it is extremely important,” said nurse practitioner Michele Knepper, who works at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
Unclean water bottles can cause stomach aches and itchy throats and even exacerbate allergies and asthma.
Experts disagree on when and how you should wash them, but they’re all in agreement on one thing: Give your water bottle a tender loving clean, because something is better than nothing at all.
“Is it that big of a deal? No. But it’s also not difficult to just wash your water bottle,” said Dr. Mike Ren, a family medicine physician at Baylor College of Medicine.
SOME TIPS FOR A SQUEAKY CLEAN WATER BOTTLE
EXPERTS say the gunk doesn’t care what your water bottle is made of. Reusable metal, plastic and glass bottles all grow germy, but plastic bottles are more likely to get scratches or dings on the inside where microbial life can cozy up.
The best cleaning routine is a simple one: Use a sponge or bottle brush to scrub inside and out with warm, soapy water, rinse it out and let it dry so it’s ready for the next refill. A narrow or pipe cleanershaped tool can be useful to get into straws and tight crevices.
For a deeper wash, scientists recommend popping the bottle in the dishwasher if it’s safe to do so, or dissolving a denture or retainer-cleaning tablet in the bottle overnight. Scrubbing with a warm water solution of vinegar or baking soda works too. Many experts recommend doing a simple, soapy water clean every day and a deeper clean once a week. If daily cleaning feels a little extra, Ren said to try to get to it at least every other week or so while maintaining other good habits like rinsing the mouthpiece over the sink during each refill.
But if you fill your reusable bottle with other beverages like protein shakes or exercise drinks, it really is important to clean every day. Sugary drinks leave a residue that bacteria love to snack on.
DO YOU NEED TO DUMP THE WATER IN YOUR BOTTLE EVERY DAY?
IS it okay to leave water in a reusable bottle overnight? Experts disagree.
Some say to dump the dregs out every refill, while others recommend emptying every few hours. Ren says it’s likely okay to leave some inside overnight, but to empty old water at least every few days.
“Guidelines are guidelines,” Ren said. “Everyone’s going to do it a little bit differently.”
If there’s visible mold on the bottle or the liquid inside has a weird smell, don’t drink it. Avoid refilling disposable plastic water bottles since chemicals can leach into the water, and they’re even more full of cracks and crevices that can harbor germs. Water bottle cleaning routines may not all look the same—but it’s important to keep up the habit, said Ivy Sun, a hospitality expert at Georgia Southern University who has studied water bottle contamination. She washes her and her kids’ bottles with soapy water every day.
“This is just a very small step that we do, but it can largely help with our health,” Sun said.
Parentlife
Thriving in transformations: How women evolve without limits
AS women, we are always looking forward to transformation. Sometimes that is a change in season, a shift in routine, or a renewal of purpose. Whether we are trying a new lipstick shade, taking on a new business challenge, or rediscovering who we are as mothers, we live for the chance to evolve. Every phase of our lives—personal, professional, emotional—offers a new version of ourselves waiting to be revealed.
When I interviewed Vanee Gosiengfiao, general manager of Avon Philippines, I was reminded that transformation does not always mean starting over. Sometimes, this is about remembering the strengths we already have. For over 135 years, Avon has helped women grow, earn and express themselves freely—on their own terms. “At Avon, we’ve always believed that women, especially moms, shouldn’t have to choose between family, passion and purpose,” Vanee shared.
“Empowering women has always been at the heart of what we do—giving them flexibility to earn and learn on their own terms.”
For many of us moms, that kind of freedom is priceless. We want to be present for our families, yet we also long to nurture our dreams. Avon’s model— enabling women to become their own bosses—proves that success and motherhood can thrive side by side.
After my first child was born, I felt a lot of fear and
pressure. Maybe even moreso because my firstborn is a daughter, I wanted to pave a wonderful journey with her where both of us are learning and laughing along the way. But the question was how? Wearing my engineering hat, I started on this quest to find all possible ways to “simplify parenting” all toward building a meaningful family life.
When I asked how Avon helps moms “simplify parenting,” Vanee smiled. “We offer everyday essentials that make self-care easier—beauty musthaves, trusted skincare, and family essentials that give moms a well-deserved moment for themselves.” Because when moms care for themselves, they give their families the best version of their love and patience. I often remind parents that simplifying doesn’t mean doing less—it means focusing on what truly matters. And for moms, self-care isn’t selfish; it’s survival.
Avon has also evolved with the times, embracing digital transformation to empower women in the new economy. “Direct selling remains at the heart of Avon,” Vanee explained, “but we’ve gone digital— allowing our representatives to sell online or through platforms like TikTok to reach younger audiences.”
Avon has also expanded through Watsons and SM Beauty, blending legacy with innovation. “Our goal,” she said, “is to make Avon accessible wherever women are—whether online or in-store.”
Beyond business, Avon continues to champion women’s causes. For over 30 years, it has been a global leader in breast cancer awareness, ensuring no woman faces the disease alone. Last October, Avon launched its first-ever #FeelYourself Pink Campus Tour, bringing breast health education directly to universities. The initiative promotes self-checks, early detection, and open discussions through interactive booths, talks, and survivor-led stories. Globally, Avon has donated over US$1.1 billion, educated 180 million women, and funded 20 million breast scans—a legacy
that continues to save lives. Vanee also shared three simple but profound parenting insights:
1️. Ta ke care of yourself, too. A well-rested, confident mom can give her best to her family.
2. Set realistic expectations. Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.
3. Lead by example. Children learn more from what we do than what we say.
These words ring true for so many of us. Transformation begins at home—in how we model gratitude, resilience and self-respect. Becoming part of Avon’s movement for empowerment is easy. Anyone can sign up as an Avon Representative through www.avon.com.ph, the Avon ON app, or at any Avon branch nationwide. Registration is free, and women can start earning, learning, and connecting instantly. More than a business, it’s a sisterhood—a community where women support women, celebrating both small and big victories together.
As I wrapped up my interview, I reflected on how each woman’s story is defined by transformation. My elders used to say that a girl’s fate undergoes stages of change—from birth, to teenage years, to marriage, to motherhood. Each stage brings both loss and renewal. As I have trekked several of these crossroads, I understand better what they meant.
Transformation is not about chasing perfection— it’s about allowing growth. As women, we owe it to ourselves to embrace each turning point with courage and grace. Because whether we are nurturing a family, building a business, or rediscovering our purpose, every transformation reminds us that we are capable of more than we ever imagined.
And in those quiet moments—when we pause, breathe, and realize how far we have become—we discover that the truest kind of beauty is one that comes from strength, love, and the limitless heart of a woman.
Grab, Chagee bring modern tea culture to more Filipinos
INTERNATIONAL tea and beverage leader Chagee is officially launching as an “Only on Grab” restaurant, part of a selection of merchant-partners available exclusively on GrabFood, starting with the tea brand’s Metro Manila stores. The goal is simple for Filipinos: find Chagee faster on the Grab app, track deliveries in real time, and enjoy localized offers that make high-quality tea an easy everyday choice. By leveraging Grab’s actionable data, engaged consumer base, and nationwide delivery fleet, the partnership positions Chagee to scale sustainably and drive long-term growth in the Philippine market. Early traction from Chagee’s soft launch on Grab points to strong demand. Since going live, the brand has averaged 46 percent week-on-week growth in ondemand deliveries. Average daily transactions already place Chagee among GrabFood’s top tea merchant partners in the Philippines, with Bo·Ya Jasmine Green Milk Tea, Da Hong Pao Milk Tea, and Osmanthus Oolong Milk Tea leading orders during the introductory period. Grab and Chagee will build on this momentum as more
stores come online.
For Filipino consumers, the partnership means Chagee will be easier to access on the Grab app— offering relevant promotions to local preferences and time-of-day demand.
Chagee and Grab are also rolling out marketspecific campaigns that turn data-driven insights into meaningful customer experiences.
In the Philippines, upcoming promotions will reward customers with limited-time offers and exclusive merchandise in celebration of Chagee’s 8th anniversary.
Highlights include savings on multi-cup purchases and collectible gifts available through Chagee orders on the Grab app. These initiatives reflect both brands’ shared commitment to using technology and creativity to deepen customer engagement, celebrate loyalty, and enhance the overall delivery experience.
“This is a practical partnership with clear benefits for Filipinos,” said EJ Dela Vega, Grab Philippines chief commercial officer and head of deliveries.
“If you want Chagee, you should be able to find it
ACTRESS Kyline Alcantara (left) and Avon Philippines general manager Vanee Gosiengfiao
HD back in harness for Thailand SEAG
UST scores twin victories against hard-pressed UE
UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas (UST) snapped its four-game skid in University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 88 mens basketball action with a 107-97 victory over cellar-dwelling University of the East (UE) Wednesday afternoon at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
T he Growling Tigers, reeling from consecutive narrow defeats to Adamson University and University of the Philippines, leaned on the balanced offensive effort from Nic Cabañero, Gelo Crisostomo and Nigerian center Collins Akowe to secure their first win in over a month. Their last victory came after a 5-1 start to the season.
UST had last triumphed over Far Eastern University on October 15 but went into a tailspin afterward with its scheduled rematch last Sunday postponed due to Super Typhoon “Uwan.”
With this morale-boosting win, the Growling Tigers climbed to solo fourth in the eight-team standings with a 6-5 record, creating separation from fifth-placed Ateneo (5-5) and sixth-placed Adamson University (5-6).
Credit to the players for overcoming adversity, they stuck together,” said UST assistant coach Japs Cuan as head coach Pido Jarencio has yet to appear in a postgame press conference during the team’s six wins this season.
Kent Pastrana, meanwhile, unleashed a career-high 35 points as UST secured a playoff for a twice-to-beat advantage in the women’s tournament with a commanding 125-50 victory also over UE. Following up on a 25-point performance against UP last November 5, Pastrana raised the bar and hit 13-of-21 from the field while with 12 rebounds, five steals, two assists and one block.
S he finished with an efficient plus-50 rating in 18 minutes and 51 seconds of action.
By Josef Ramos
IDILYN DIAZ-NARANJO
His on the comeback trail and set a modest goal of making the podium at next month’s 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.
“All I can say for now is I will come up prepared and ready for SEA Games,”
Diaz-Naranjo told BusinessMirror on Wednesday. “I’m in the lineup for the December games and this is going to be a big sacrifice.”
Diaz-Naranjo won the country’s first Olympic gold medal at Tokyo 2020 (2021) in women’s -56 kgs of weightlifting, but failed to qualify for Paris after the weight category was scrapped to give way for the -59 kgs division. She went for the heavier weight but
failed to qualify during the International Weightlifting Federation World Cup in May 2024 in Phuket where Elreen Ann Ando earned her second ticket to the Olympics. That was her last international stint but has since trained consistently in her weightlifting academy in Jala-Jala.
“My training in Jala-jala everyday looks great and I’m thankful to my husband Julius for helping me out,” she said.
Diaz-Naranjo isn’t promising a gold medal in Thailand—where she’ll be up against Thai Suratwadee Yodsarn, a silver medalist in the Asian championships last May in Jiangshan, China—but a mere podium finish.
“They [Thais] are very strong now and they are competing at home,” she said. “They have that Asian championship silver medalist who is expected to be very competitive.”
Thailand—and Malaysia—served a three-year ban starting from Tokyo 2020 from the IWF after several of its weightlifters failed anti-doping tests, but is now back in action in its fourthtime hosting of the biennial SEA Games scheduled December 9 to 20.
Diaz-Naranjo said she had bulked up and needs to shed at least 3 kgs to make the grade in the games.
“I got bigger,” she said.
She owns two SEA Games gold medals—in Philippines 2019 and Hanoi 2022—below her world championships title in Bogota also in 2022 and Asian Games crown in Jakarta 2018—victories she posted at -53, -55 and -59 kgs.
Diaz-Naranjo has been a weightlifter for 23 years and set up the HD Weightlifting Academy in Jala-jala after her success in Tokyo.
“It fulfills me not only as an athlete but as a true weightlifter who want to spread the sport,” she said. “When we started in Vigan [2022 Batang Pinoy], we only had a few athletes but right now we added a few more quality athletes.”
She brought her young weightlifters to General Santos City last month for the 2025 Batang Pinoy.
Arellano U snaps San Sebastian streak
A“I am so happy with my performance today,” Pastrana said. “I give it my best every game and, of course, as a leader.”
The Growling Tigresses remained unbeaten through 11 games and are boasting an average winning margin of 37 points per contest.
RELLANO University put an end to San Sebastian College’s two-game win streak following a 78-71 win in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 101 men’s basketball tournament at the San Juan Arena on Wednesday. The Chiefs not only halted the Golden Stags’ momentous run, but they also rose to third place in Group A with a 4-6 record.
Cloudy crystal ball
MANY
of
“ We got No. 2, now getting No. 3 looks achievable,” Chiefs coach Chico Manabat said.
Arellano University now sits closely behind defending champion Mapua (5-5) while University of Perpetual Help is still alone at the top with an 8-2 card.
The Stags ended their stellar string of wins which included victories over Letran (6-4) and the Altas.
the season champ as early as the opening press conference.
For consecutive years beginning 2018, UAAP coaches would predict that the Ateneo Blue Eagles would repeat as champs when asked for their fearless forecasts at the presser. And for several seasons, they were indeed proven right.
Those predictions were due to a three-year dominant Loyola stretch with Ange Kouame at center and Coach Tab Baldwin at the helm. It started in 2017 (Season 80), when Ateneo defeated arch rival La Salle in the men’s finals, 85-80, despite the presence of Green Archer hero and Season MVP Ben Mbala.
The Eagles managed to melt the Archers’ arrows then, thanks to a clutch Isaac Go triple in the last 24.7 seconds.
That was Coach Tab Baldwin’s first win in the UAAP, and after that he went on a roll, with Ateneo claiming the 2018 and 2019 crowns as well. (The Eagles had an even grander fiveseason championship streak from 2008 to 2012.)
In 2022 (Season 84) the Ateneo dominance was halted, however, by an upstart University of the Philippines team composed largely of National University Bullpups.
Although the Blue and White would reclaim the crown the following season, it has not yet regained the supremacy it used to enjoy in those earlier years.
The ebb and flow of team dominance in UAAP men’s basketball made me curious about the trajectory of the different teams—so much so that I did a little research about team appearances and disappearances in the Final Four chart during the last 10 years.
Uy leads 20-strong LPGT squad vying for first crown in Taiwan
ADETERMINED 20-player contingent from the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour (LPGT) will be out to capture a long-sought first victory on the Taiwan Ladies Professional Golf Association Tour (TLPGA).
The Filipinas, along with three Korean LPGT regulars, head into the NT$5 million Party Golfers Ladies Open unfolding Wednesday at the Lily Golf and Country Club in Guanxi Township in Hsinchu.
At the forefront is Daniella Uy, whose joint fourth-place finish in the 2019 edition remains the best performance by an LPGT campaigner in the event.
Uy w ill again head a deep and battle-tested roster featuring this season’s LPGT leg winners—Chanelle Avaricio, Princess Superal, Mafy Singson and Florence Bisera.
For the Filipinas, a win on Taiwan soil has been agonizingly close but remains elusive—Superal tied for 16th in the first co-sanctioned LPGT-TLPGA event in 2018, while Uy’s near-podium finish in 2019 left her just three shots shy of local winner Yu Ling Hsieh. In more recent editions, Pauline del Rosario carried the Philippine flag with back-to-back top-10 finishes—joint sixth in 2023 and tied for eighth last year.
Yet, the collective sentiment heading into this year’s 54-hole championship is one of renewed belief. The contingent has honed its competitive edge through a grueling domestic season and a series of international forays, making them more than ready to take on the formidable field of top players and rising stars from Thailand, Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and host Taiwan.
A mong the most confident is Bisera, who is chasing a second international crown after her stunning breakthrough in Thailand last September—a victory that came right after she ruled the
LPGT Negros
Occidental leg. Avaricio, a two-time LPGT champion this year with an additional runner-up finish, also
looms as a strong contender, her consistency and composure setting her apart.
Superal and Singson, both tested by stints on the Japan Step Up Tour and China Tour respectively, bring valuable overseas experience that could prove crucial in navigating the pressure and conditions of the TLPGA circuit. Harmie Constantino, the dominant force of last year’s LPGT season with four titles and another Order of Merit crown, is out to end her title drought with a breakthrough performance abroad. Also joining the fray are Lois Kaye Go, Martina Miñoza, Velinda Castil, Gretchen Villacencio, Annika Cedo, Marvi Monsalve and Rev Alcantara, all eager to contribute to a potential milestone moment for Philippine women’s golf.
Completing the Philippine delegation are Kristine Fleetwood, Monica Mandario, Marjorie Pulumbarit and Jiwon Lee, Eunhua Nam, and Seo Yun Kim, who is equally motivated to redeem herself after twice faltering in the final round of LPGT events this year. With talent, momentum and an unrelenting desire to make history, the LPGT squad enters the Party Golfers Ladies Open not just as participants, but as genuine contenders hungry to carve their names into the TLPGA record books.
This is what I found: In 2015 (Season 78), the Final Four teams were University of Santo Tomas (UST), Far Eastern University (FEU), NU and Ateneo. (An FEU with Mac Belo, Roger Pogoy, Wendell Comboy, Ron Denison, Mike Tolomia and the Escoto Brothers defeated the Kevin-Ferrer led UST Growling Tigers in the Finals that year.)
The following year, Ateneo, DLSU, FEU were in the Final Four, alongside the Franz Puamren-mentored Adamson University that barged into the semifinals for the first time since 2010 and 2011.
Ben Mbala-led La Salle totally dominated Ateneo in the finals for the Season 79 crown.
In S eason 80, DLSU, FEU, Ateneo and ADU were in the Final Four. The perennially semifinals-bound FEU was ousted from contention by the Blue Eagles, who eventually won the title against La Salle.
In S eason 81, Ateneo, Adamson and FEU played in the Final Four, but with a surprise guest, the Fighting Maroons, who participated in the prestigious Round of Four for the first time since 1998.
UP pulled off another surprise by gatecrashing the finals against Ateneo—their first finals appearance since 1986. But the Eagles were just too superior and won the Best of Three in two. La Salle was out of the semis that year.
A teneo again took home the crown in 2019 after topping a Final Four that included UP, UST and again, FEU. La Salle
was eliminated from contention by UP. No competitions were held during the pandemic, but during the so-called “bubble tournament,” (Season 84), Ateneo, UP, FEU and DLSU played in the Final Four.
T he season marked the Fighting Maroons’ UPrising, as they snatched the title from Ateneo, prevented them from winning a fourth consecutive crown. It was UP’s first championship in 35 years.
The Season 85
HIDILYN DIAZ-NARANJO with her proteges at the Batang Pinoy in General Santos City last month.
NIC CABAÑERO (left) and Kent Pastrana get the job done for University of Santo Tomas. UAAP PHOTO
