New BIR chief targets plugging tax leakage
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto and Andrea E. San Juan
HE Bureau of Internal Revenue
T(BIR) will prioritize maximizing revenues by strengthening tax enforcement to plug leakages, while pursuing reforms to modernize and professionalize tax administration
under its new leadership.
Newly appointed Internal Revenue Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza told BusinessMirror that his top priority up to year-end is maximizing revenues to close the gap between actual collections and the target.
“I am fully committed to ensuring that the BIR continues to modernize and deliver
efficient, transparent, and service-oriented tax administration,” Mendoza said.
This year, the BIR aims to collect P3.219 trillion, higher by 13.02 percent than last year’s target of P2.848 trillion. The BIR will contribute 71 percent of the government’s P4.520trillion full-year revenue target.
About P2.322 trillion, or 72.13 per-
cent, of the BIR’s full-year target has been raised as of the end of September. With the Christmas season expected to drive up consumer spending, Mendoza said the BIR is closely monitoring sales receipts and tax collections from major consumer goods, as well as from vice and petroleum products.
HUGE CUT IN KEY RATES
THEBy Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) frontloading a “jumbo reduction” in key policy rates might be “drastic” and could further weaken the Philippine peso, according to the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI). Speaking
OPEN UP MASS MEDIA TO ALIEN OWNERSHIP–THINK TANK TO GOVT
THE Philippine government should consider opening up mass media to foreign ownership to help traditional media overcome financial challenges, according to a senior researcher of local think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS).
“Another way to overcome the financial challenges is we open up the mass media to foreign ownership,” Ramonette Serafica, senior research fellow at PIDS, said during the joint webinar: “Conversations on Media, Communication, and Development” on Thursday. Citing another paper, Serafica cited a study which outlines different ownership limitations
See “Mass media,” A12
JUAN PONCE ENRILE, the country’s longest-serving government official and known most for his role as martial law administrator and later a key player in the 1986 Edsa People Power uprising, has died, his family said Thursday.
Katrina Ponce Enrile confirmed the passing of her father, at 4:21 p.m., surrounded by family at home, as he had wished.
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
PRESIDENT Marcos on Thursday assured that government spending during the last quarter of the year will be aligned with his administration’s “original plan” to keep the country on track with its economic growth target this year.
“Public spending now will be increased and—to make sure that by the end of the year, the levels of public spending are according to our original plan,” Marcos said in a news conference in Malacañang on Thursday.
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) earlier said it is banking on the spending of the P1.31-trillion programmed funds to boost the country’s gross domes-
tic product during the last quarter of 2025.
Of the said fund, P9.52 billion will be used for conditional cash transfers.
The President issued the statement when asked how the government can restore investor confidence, which were apparently affected by the ongoing government probe on the anomalous flood control projects.
Amid the said investigations the value of peso reached an all-time low of P59.17 against the US dollar, while the gross domestic product (GDP) from July to September slowed down to 4 percent.
The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) the ongoing investigation on anomalous flood control projects, which started last August, has re -
sulted in a slowdown in the progress in public works, which underwent vetting from Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
In a Viber message, DPWH Secretary Vivencio “Vince” B. Dizon told BusinessMirror many of the said projects will resume before the end of the year.
“We will ramp up [the construction], but with safeguards,” he said.
Marcos, however, attributed the downturn in economic activity not just to the public works investigations.
He noted that the series of typhoons, which hit the country during the third quarter of the year has dampened local economic growth.
This was worsened, he said by the “prevailing global situation,” caused
See “Growth,” A2
Senate President Vicente Sotto III, presiding at the session’s lengthy plenary deliberations on the 2026 budget, also announced the death of Enrile, whose Senate stint was capped by his historic role as presiding officer of the fourmonth impeachment trial of Chief Justice Renato Corona in 2012.
“He has dedicated his whole life, until his last days, to public service. We will remember him for his formidable intellect and compassion for the people, especially the Senate employees. The legacy of Manong Johnny will always live on, etched in this institution that he loved,” said Sotto.
The Senate, following tradition, suspended sessions until 1pm Monday, November 17. Enrile was the 21st Senate President from 2008 to 2013.
Marcos pays tribute BRILLIANT and a public servant to the very end.
FLIGHT INTO THE LIGHT Silhouetted against the warm orange
NEW BIR chief Charlito Mendoza takes his oath before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday, November 13. PCO PHOTO
By Nonnie Pelayo, Butch Fernandez & Samuel P. Medenilla
See “BIR chief,” A2
with public bodies,” the report said. However, Swedish companies perceive the risk of human rights violations and labor rights abuse as low, reflecting confidence in the Philippines’ labor standards and regulatory safeguards.
Financial performance in 2024 was stable overall. Fifty-five percent of firms reported profitability, while 23 percent broke even.
Larger enterprises and long-established companies outperformed, with 75 percent and 71 percent profitability, respectively.
In contrast, only 20 to 25 percent of SMEs and newer entrants reported profits, underscoring the challenges of scaling operations and managing costs.
Sector-wise, professional services firms posted the strongest results, with 60 percent reporting profits and none incurring losses, driven by sustained demand for IT, advisory, and back-office services.
Industrial firms followed with 57 percent profitability, while consumerfacing companies showed more volatility, with only 40 percent profitable and several operating at a loss. Infra reforms
THE report also cited government efforts under the “Build Better More” infrastructure program and the Ease of Doing Business Act as positive developments.
Key projects such as the Metro Manila Subway and North-South Commuter Railway are expected to ease logistics bottlenecks and improve regional connectivity.
CICC asks PNP to probe 15 socmed influencers
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
THECybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has endorsed 15 social media influencers to the Philippine National Police-AntiCybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) for promoting unlicensed online gambling sites.
Through its Threat Monitoring Center (TMC), the CICC verified gambling websites operating without Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) authorization. The influencers collectively command over 76 million followers across Facebook.
This was how President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. paid tribute to his Presi-
The list includes prominent content creators who rose to fame during the pandemic.
Toni Fowler, a vlogger and recording artist with 7.8 million followers, built her audience through racy lifestyle content and music releases. Whamos Cruz, known for his come -
dential chief legal counsel Enrile.
He fondly called Enrile as “Tito Johnny” after he served as his father’s minister of national defense and secretary of justice.
“For over 50 years, Juan Ponce Enrile dedicated his life to serving the
dic skits and daily life vlogs, had accumulated 8.3 million followers before his account was taken down, suggesting either voluntary removal or platform action for policy violations. Also named is Johnmar Villaluna, who maintains 2.6 million followers under the handle “ohmyv33nus.” Villaluna gained prominence as a professional Mobile Legends: Bang Bang player, competing and winning in international esports tournaments.
Other influencers on the list include Christian Merck Grey (9.2 million followers), Normelyn Garcia (7.6 million), Vic Desucatan (6.9 million), Grace Calderon (6.8 million), Cherrylyn Gonzaga (6.5 million), Ronnie Suan (5.6 million), Nica Pauline Llamelo (4.6 million), Clarence Angelo Santos
Filipino people, helping guide the country through some of its most challenging and defining moments,” the chief executive said in a post in his social media account last Thursday.
“Even in his final years, he remained brilliant, sharp, and firm in his belief that law and governance must always serve the Filipino people,” he added.
He said Enrile’s legacy in Philippine history will not be forgotten.
“His passing marks the closing of a chapter in our nation’s history. But the mark he leaves behind in law, in governance, and in the hearts of those he served will never be forgotten,” the President said.
Enrile was part of the failed coup, which eventually led to the 1986 People Power Revolution and resulted in Marcos Sr. being ousted from power. Despite the incident, Enrile was still considered in high regard by the cur-
(2.9 million), Jeren Bacas (2.7 million), a certain Perkz Gaming (1.1 million), and a certain Jungsuuk (1.3 million).
According to the CICC, the gambling platforms used Filipino influencers to attract players, “including minors,” through livestreams, referral links, and online challenges. Violators face potential charges under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, Presidential Decree No. 1602 on illegal gambling, and Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code on estafa. The laws penalize not only operators but individuals who knowingly promote or enable illegal gambling online. The CICC said the endorsement to the PNP-ACG initiates case build-up and prosecution proceedings.
rent President, who opted to even include him in his Cabinet as his chief legal counsel.
Katrina’s post IN a heartfelt Facebook post, Katrina shared that it was her father’s wish to take his final rest at home, a wish the family was able to fulfill. She expressed “profound love and gratitude” as they honored his final moments in peace and privacy. Enrile, who passed away at 101, was remembered for dedicating much of his life to public service, most recently as Chief Presidential Legal Counsel under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The family said details for public viewing will be announced once arrangements are finalized, and asked for privacy in the meantime.
This announcement comes after days of speculation about
See “JPE,” A13
To do this, Mendoza said the BIR must rebuild and reinforce public trust by advancing reforms in regulations, digitalization, education and client experience.
Meanwhile, the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation, Inc. (SEIPI) said Mendoza’s leadership will “inspire confidence” among stakeholders, particularly in the semiconductor and electronics sector.
In a statement on Thursday, SEIPI said it recognizes the “significant role” Mendoza will play in advancing a revenue system that is “transparent, efficient, and responsive to the evolving needs of both the public and private sectors.”
The organization of foreign and Filipino electronics companies in the Philippines recognized the newly appointed BIR chief’s commitment to “good governance, digital modernization, and service excellence” which the group said is expected to drive lasting reforms and inspire confidence among stakeholders, particularly in industries that contribute significantly to national growth such as the semiconductor and electronics sector.
As the new taxman, Mendoza’s marching orders to regional and district offices is to “collect, collect, collect.”
“Our main goal will always be to collect taxes efficiently and fairly, because those funds sustain our national programs,” Mendoza said.
The bureau must also aggressively investigate and prosecute tax evasion and collect tax deficiencies. “These efforts must go hand in hand,” Mendoza said.
“At the Department of Finance [DOF], we have supported the improvements and reforms the BIR has implemented, and we will continue to build on those programs, especially in advancing digitalization and reforms for institutional efficiency,” Mendoza added.
BIR ‘in good hands’ MEANWHILE , Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said the BIR is in “good hands” after the leadership change in the country’s main taxcollecting agency.
“I trust that under his leadership, the BIR will meet and even exceed our revenue targets.
Above all, I trust that he will always keep the well-being of our taxpayers at the heart of all your efforts,” Recto said. Mendoza, who served as undersecretary for Revenue Operations since April 2024, led the DOF’s BRAVE campaign against smuggling and illicit trade, with digitalization at its core.
Under his leadership, the DOF surpassed its 2024 revenue target, collecting P4.42 trillion— equivalent to 16.7 percent of GDP, the highest in 27 years.
the foundation to order society… trust is everything. In the digital world, trust is being attacked by the scam economy, by scammers,” he added, highlighting GSMA’s Asia Pacific Cross-Sector Anti-Scam Task Force. The initiative brings together 35 organizations across 17 countries, including Philippine operators, Google, and Meta, to collaborate on identifying and preventing scams. The group’s ongoing Asean consumer scam study shows that 52 percent of Filipinos have been scammed at least once, seven points above the Asean average. Eight percent reported being victimized in the past year, with exposure rising 6 percent, second only to Thailand. Two-thirds of victims lost money, 11 percent significantly, while 45 percent reported emotional stress and 28 percent spent considerable time resolving incidents. Overall, 96 percent expressed concern about scams, with 58 percent “very concerned,” up seven points yearon-year.
At the summit, GSMA urged stakeholders across banking, telecoms, e-commerce, and government to standardize threat reporting, leverage telecom data for real-time fraud detection, expand public-awareness campaigns, and align data-protection frameworks to support secure cross-border services under the Asean Connectivity Strategic Plan 20262035.
Gorman, meanwhile, stressed the importance of preparing for the next wave of technology, including AI and 5G. With Filipinos ranking as the fifth-largest global users of ChatGPT, creating a supportive regulatory framework for AI is crucial to ensure safe online use, he said. He added that infrastructure upgrades are needed to support AI-driven traffic, low-latency applications like live translation, and expanding the nation’s fiber network, while also considering sustainable power supply and cloud infrastructure development.
Before his appointment in DOF, Mendoza served as District Collector for the Bureau of Customs Port of Cebu from July 2019 to October 2022, where it achieved significant milestones in revenue collections and border protection.
Mendoza earned his Bachelor of Laws degree from San Beda University and ranked third in the 2004 Philippine Bar Exam. He succeeds former BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr., who led the bureau since November 2022. Lumagui’s key initiatives included the Online Registration and Update System (ORUS), a webbased platform for end-to-end registration and taxpayer information management, and the Run After Fake Transactions (RAFT) drive, which filed civil, criminal and administrative cases against those involved in ghost receipts. He also intensified the BIR’s crackdown on illicit trade in excisable goods, such as cigarettes and vape products, to protect revenues and ensure fair competition.
SEIPI, meanwhile, also noted that Mendoza brings “extensive experience” from his previous roles at the Bureau of Customs and DOF.
“With a strong foundation in fiscal policy, public administration, and institutional reform coupled with his integrity and proven leadership, he is well-positioned to lead the Bureau of Internal Revenue during this crucial phase of the nation’s fiscal transformation,” SEIPI noted. With this, Seipi expressed its full support for Mendoza.
“We
Lacson nixes Zoom testimony for Zaldy Co
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
THERE will be no testimony via Zoom for former confressman Elizaldy Co at the Senate BlueRibbon committee’s investigation into the anomalous flood control projects, Senate President Pro Tempore and newly reinstalled Blue-Ribbon committee chairman Panfilo M. Lacson said on Thursday.
In a statement, Lacson said allowing Co to participate virtually in the hearing might give him a platform to say anything he wants, with his testimony lacking probative value—or worse, containing “propaganda” without the risk of being cited in contempt.
Poll signals
“I didn’t push through with the initial plan to invite him [Co] via Zoom. On second thought, the hearing might afford him a platform to say anything he wants even with no probative value and worse for propaganda purposes only without any accountability for at least possible contempt citation,” he said. In addition, Lacson said Co’s camp informed the Blue-Ribbon committee that the ex-lawmaker is undergoing medication in the United States and is thus unable to attend Friday’s hearing.
“Co’s lawyer informed the committee saying Co is in the US and is undergoing
See “Co,” A4
great divide in
trust between Senate Blue-Ribbon, House infra panels
ADAY before the Senate BlueRibbon committe set the muchawaited hearings on the floodcontrol mess, a pollster released a report indicating a “growing trust divide” has emerged between the two legislative hearing bodies.
More Filipinos expressed confidence in the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee over the House Committee on Infrastructure, according to the latest Pahayag 2025 Third Quarter Survey.
Friday’s (November 14) hearing is led by Sen. Panfilo Lacson, who last Tuesday was chosen anew by peers to be Blue-Ribbon panel chairman. Lacson, who has built a reputation as a veteran graft investigator, has promised the public his panel will leave no stone unturned and protect no one.
Per the Pahayag Q3 poll, in public hearings regarding Flood Control Projects, data indicate that 30 percent of respondents place more trust in the Senate committee, while 5 percent favor the House committee. Interestingly, 31 percent expressed equal trust in both bodies, while a notable 22 percent indicated a lack of trust in either.
The preference for the Senate committee is consistent across all major areas, with slightly higher trust levels observed in the National Capital Region (33 percent) and Mindanao (33 percent), compared to Northern/Central Luzon (27 percent) and Southern Luzon (30 percent).
In line with this sentiment, two in three Filipino voters (64 percent) agree
See “Blue-Ribbon,” A4
Govt to use smart tech to root out corruption
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
AS part of its ongoing crusade to end systemic corruption in public works, the Marcos administration will be tapping new smart technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), to boost transparency and uncover irregularities.
TPresident Marcos made the announcement in a news conference in Malacañang on Thursday, when he presented the developments in the government’s campaign against allegedly anomalous flood-control projects.
During his presentation, Marcos highlighted how the initiative resulted in the vetting of 9,855 flood control projects
to determine if they were substandard, overpriced, or non-existent.
Of the said projects, 735 were non-existent or unlocatable, 84 were non-operational, and 191 were ineffective.
It also resulted in the reorganization with the Department of Public Works and Highways
See “Corruption,” A4
CBCP flags ‘misleading’ posts linking Church to Nov. 16-18 rally
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has denied claims that the Church is involved in a rally set for November 16 to 18.
In a recent joint statement, the CBCP and Caritas Philippines said online posts linking Church institutions to the planned mobilization are “false and misleading.”
By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) on Thursday filed its fourth report with the Office of the Ombudsman recommending the filing of graft and malversation charges against several district engineers of the Department
of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in connection with the P74 million ghost flood control projects in Hagonoy, Bulacan.
In its 19-page report signed by ICI chairperson, retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres Reyes, the commission identified the engineers as Henry Alcantara, Brice Ericson Hernandez, Ernesto Galang, Jolo
Mari V. Tayao, John Michael Ramos, Lemuel
Ephraim Roque. Also included in the recommendation of the ICI is the owner of construction firm Darcy & Anna Builders & Trading identified as Darcy Kimel Respecio. The ICI asked the Ombudsman to determine if there is basis to charge the
See “ICI,” A4
Dela Rosa asks SC to prevent implementation of ICC warrant
OPPOSITION Sen. Ronald dela Rosa has sought refuge before the Supreme Court (SC) against the implementation by Philippine authorities of the supposed arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in
connection with his alleged role in the bloody, anti-illegal drug war campaign during the term of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
In a 25-page “very urgent” manifestation, dela Rosa, through his counsel, lawyer Israelito Torreon, asked the Court to compel
the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to submit within 72 hours, written certifications confirming whether or not an ICC-related
See “Bato,” A13
“The [CBCP] and Caritas Philippines categorically state that we are not involved in, nor do we endorse, any rally or public gathering reportedly scheduled on November 16—18, 2025,” they said.
“Neither the CBCP nor Caritas Philippines has issued any call, authorization, or endorsement for participation in this event. Any claim, post, or message implying that the Church or its organizations are part of the said activity is false and misleading.”
The statement came as Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) announced it will hold a three-day “peace rally” at the Rizal Park in Manila on November 16 to 18 to demand transparency and accountability in the government. It is expected to draw around 300,000 participants daily.
See “CBCP,” A4
Friday, November 14, 2025
Economy
PHL, Italy defense officials stress need to protect undersea cables
By Rizal Raoul Reyes
EXPERTS and defense officials from the Philippines and Italy recently underscored that protecting subsea infrastructure is now an urgent shared priority in maintaining regional stability and a rules-based international order.
Moreover, Manila and Rome said the recent incidents of cable disruptions in and around the West Philippine Sea have exposed the vulnerabilities of the world’s underwater lifelines, which are critical infrastructures that are increasingly threatened by both natural and man-made causes.
At the Stratbase Institute forum “Enhancing Underwater Domain Resilience through Strengthened Philippine–Italy Cooperation,” held in Makati City, Italian
The CBCP and Caritas Philippines said the Church maintains a non-partisan position and focuses on pastoral, social, and humanitarian work.
According to the statement, the Church fulfills its mission of promoting truth, justice, and service to the poor “through peaceful dialogue and formation activities,” not through partisan political actions.
“The faithful should check information sources before sharing content while following Gospel teachings about peace and truth and unity,” they said.
The public, they added, should rely only on verified CBCP and Caritas Philippines channels for official guidance.
medication. He asked to be excused from tomorrow’s hearing,” Lacson said.
Meanwhile, Lacson said his bigger concern now is to recover his voice in time for the Senate’s deliberations on the 2026 budget bill that started Thursday, and the Blue-Ribbon committee hearing on the anomalous flood control projects on Friday.
Lacson, who is under medication after losing his voice Tuesday night, debunked the innuendoes and “predictions” made by Sen. Ma. Imelda Josefa Remedios Marcos about Friday’s Blue-Ribbon hearing.
Lacson did not elaborate, but a video interview showed Marcos predicting all the witnesses will recant, and that former Speaker Martin Romualdez, her first cousin whom she disdains, will be spared by Senate investigators.
Lacson said on Thursday, in reaction: “More than Senator Imee’s crystal ball, my bigger concern is how to recover my normal voice in time for tomorrow’s BRC hearing or this afternoon’s budget plenary debates which I have intended to interpellate. I’ve lost my voice since yesterday after drinking ice cold water with a sore throat last Tuesday night.”
On Thursday afternoon, the Senate is to start deliberations on the proposed budget for 2026, with Lacson—an eagleeyed watchdog of the budget—poised to participate actively.
Passport cancellation
PRESIDENT Marcos on Thursday vowed to immediately cancel the passport of Co once criminal charges are filed against him in connection with the alleged anomalies in flood control projects.
Co, a former nominee of the Ako Bicol party-list group, resigned from the House of Representatives in September after he was tagged as among those allegedly involved in the kickback scheme in flood control projects.
Currently abroad, Co has not returned to the Philippines and has confirmed, through his lawyer, that he will not do so anytime soon due to alleged credible threats against his life.
“I think that is best directed at lawyers because that is a legal answer. The legal answer is because hindi pa nasampahan ng kaso, therefore the request for cancellation of passport cannot yet be made [no charges have been filed yet, so the request for passport cancellation cannot be made],” Marcos said in
Ambassador to the Philippines Davide Giglio expressed Italian solidarity with the Filipino people affected by recent typhoons, and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to deepening engagement with the Philippines and the broader Indo-Pacific region.
“Italy approaches its engagement in the Indo-Pacific through dialogue, inclusiveness and shared responsibility,” Amb. Giglio said.
“We firmly believe that stability and progress can only be achieved through mutual understanding and practical cooperation, especially in areas of emerging strategic importance, such as the underwater domain. This is a new frontier. It is reckoned that 80% of the surface area in the underwater environment is still unexplored,” he added.
Prof. Victor Andres Manhit, Stratbase Institute President, said that given the Philippines’ geographic position, the country plays a central role in securing global communications, as many of the world’s major subsea cables traverse its waters.
“The Philippine Seas serve as a home to submarine cables that connect major economic players such as the United States, European Union, and Japan among others,” Manhit said. “Any disruptions or instability in the West Philippine Sea not only jeopardize the country’s connectivity but also hinder the seamless flow of information and trade, impeding economic development and cooperation in the region.”
Manhit also cited international reports of subsea cable-cutting incidents and the
Legislator eyes annual stipend
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
ALAWMAKER is pushing for the approval of a measure that would provide an annual stipend of P5,000 for all qualified students enrolled in public and private schools from the elementary to college levels—and a higher P10,000 grant for those who excel academically.
Parañaque Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan filed House Bill 2657, or the proposed Baon Para sa Estudyante Act, to help students stay in school and complete their education by giving them access to much-needed financial support.
HB 2657, or the proposed Baon Para sa Estudyante Act, covers students in the elementary, junior and senior high school, and college levels enrolled in all public and private schools, including learners under the Alternative Learning System (ALS).
“I am reminded of the proverb that says, ‘Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.’ The Baon Para sa Estudyante Act is a program that would enable our students to learn how to fish. We are simply equipping our children with the means to shape their own future and create opportunities for themselves and their communities,” he added.
While acknowledging that the program would require significant funding, Yamsuan stressed that the long-term returns—an educated, well-informed citizenry and future leaders—far outweigh the cost.
The bill also directs the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to study the adoption of a tiered system based on income brackets to prioritize students with the greatest financial need.
Yamsuan also shared his personal experience of working part-time during
discovery of underwater drones with Chinese markings as urgent reminders of the need to strengthen undersea domain awareness.
“The Philippines needs to develop the capability to monitor, secure, and protect its underwater infrastructure at the soonest possible time,” he emphasized.
Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, Navy (PN) spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, acknowledged that securing undersea cables is a developing area for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
“Current efforts right now focus on policy discussions between the concerned government agencies,” Trinidad said. “The specific task of securing will fall on the Armed Forces and the Philippine Navy in coordination with the Coast Guard.”
From the Italian side, Capt. Francesco
for students
college despite being a scholar, emphasizing his understanding of students’ financial struggles.
He noted that the localized Baon Program already implemented in Parañaque’s Second District has helped many students continue their studies and eased the burden of solo parents.
Under HB 2657, qualified students will receive an annual P5,000 stipend, while those recognized as dean’s listers will receive P10,000 at the start of every school year.
The DepEd will implement the program for basic education students, while the CHED will oversee the program for college students. Both agencies must ensure that the registration and application processes are simple, accessible, and efficient.
According to DepEd data, there are 24.9 million students currently enrolled in elementary, junior high, and senior high schools for the school year 2025-2026.
Structural steel keeps NCR construction price steady
FALLING structural steel prices kept construction costs in Metro Manila in check last month, slowing the region’s overall growth in building materials, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed.
The Construction Materials Wholesale Price Index (CMWPI) in the National Capital Region (NCR) showed a 0.2 percent annual decrease in October, the same rate as in September. In contrast, the index had risen 0.3 percent in the same month last year. Structural steel fell 2.9 percent from a
year earlier, slightly sharper than the 2.8 percent drop recorded in September.
C ement prices also declined, down 1.6 percent from 1.2 percent, while metal products decreased 0.7 percent from 0.4 percent.
Other construction materials showed slower growth compared with the previous month. Lumber rose 0.4 percent from 0.9 percent, G.I. sheets 0.3 percent from 0.4 percent, plumbing fixtures 0.3 percent from 0.4 percent and painting works 0.9 percent from 1.0 percent.
Hardware prices slipped 0.1 percent after remaining flat in September.
On the other hand, tileworks recorded stronger growth, up 3.3 percent from 1.6 percent, while sand and gravel posted a slight 0.1 percent increase.
Pl ywood, reinforcing steel, and fuels and lubricants all showed smaller annual declines than the month before.
The CMWPI tracks the movement of wholesale prices of construction materials commonly purchased by large-scale contractors in the NCR. Bless Aubrey Ogerio
Dole asks CV employers: Grant paid leave, aid workers
CENTRAL Visayas employers have been encouraged to grant paid disaster leave and financial assistance to workers affected by recent calamities, the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) Region VII said on Thursday.
In a statement, the Labor department’s Central Visayas regional office said employers may extend paid disaster leave, hazard leave, or immediate financial assistance to employees, depending on their capacity.
“In response to the request of labor groups amidst this difficult times, Dole VIl, through its Regional Director Roy L. Buenafe, favors to encourage employers to grant workers Disaster Leave with Pay, Hazard Leave with Pay, or Immediate Financial Assistance to alleviate the adverse impact of calamities in their daily lives,” the regional office said. The agency added that “if company funds
that former Rep. Zaldy Co, believed to be still in Europe, should appear before the Senate Blue-Ribbon committee, even if it means setting
will allow,” employers may also consider releasing early the 13th-month pay and bonuses so workers would have funds for “repairs, rent, and other forms of living expenses.”
Central Visayas has been recovering from two major incidents in recent months—the 6.9-magnitude earthquake in September that displaced thousands, and the flooding during Typhoon Tino in November that likewise forced families out of their homes.
Data from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) show that the earthquake affected more than 754,000 individuals and damaged 160,662 houses.
Infrastructure losses were estimated at P73.33 million.
For Typhoon Tino, the NDRRMC reported that more than 871,000 people in Central Visayas were affected, with 101,959 houses damaged.
for reform, 52 percent believe that Congress should stop the practice of “Liquidation by Certification”—a process allowing the approval of expenses through simple certification instead of full receipts and documentation. The Pahayag Quarter 3 is an independent, non-commissioned nationwide purposive sampling survey conducted from September
Ruggiero of the Italian Navy discussed how Italy’s National Hub for Underwater, inaugurated in 2023, serves as a center for innovation and monitoring of underwater infrastructure.
“We are developing projects with an underwater infrastructure network and smart cables—cables for communication that also function as sensors,” Ruggiero said.
“We aim to achieve full operational capability in the underwater dimension through the use of underwater multi-mission vehicles.”
The hub brings together government agencies, private companies, and universities to develop dual-use technologies for both civilian and defense applications, highlighting Italy’s integrated model for maritime and underwater resilience.
Infrastructure damage reached P109.12 million.
Tupad for displaced workers
MEANWHILE , Dole VII said assistance to workers who lost income due to the disasters continues under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged-Displaced Workers (Tupad) program.
Based on regional data, P4.98 million in wages has so far been released, benefiting 923 workers.
“These beneficiaries rendered ten [10] days of community work, including cleaning, gardening, and clearing debris caused by Typhoon Tino, particularly along affected roads and public area,” it said.
The regional office added that an earlier P11 million in Tupad assistance was also provided to 1,513 beneficiaries whose jobs or livelihoods were disrupted by the September earthquake. Justine Xyrah Garcia
“The Indo-Pacific and the large Mediterranean Sea are really very similar,” Buzzo shared. “Fincantieri really would like to be a strategic industrial partner for the Philippines to protect our ocean... We have national security and technological innovation to protect.”
As Italy and the Philippines strengthen cooperation in maritime security and defense, Giglio said both nations affirmed that protecting the underwater domain is not only a strategic imperative but also an opportunity for partnership, innovation, and shared prosperity.
Engr. Aurora Buzzo, Area Manager for Sales at Fincantieri, echoed this commitment, emphasizing the company’s readiness to work with the Philippines in advancing maritime and underwater capabilities.
Fish production slightly down
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
THE country’s fish unloading volume slightly dipped in September owing to inclement weather, the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) reported.
In its latest briefer, the PFDA said the fish unloading volume in the reference month slid by 0.69 percent to 36,588.64 metric tons (MT) from the 36,844.39 MT recorded in the same period last year.
The General Santos Fish Port Complex accounted for the majority of the total unloading record delivered to consumers in September at 16,807.18 MT. This was lower than the 17,773.84 recorded in the previous year.
PFDA noted that the Navotas Fish Port Complex, the largest RFP in the country, trailed behind as it unloaded 13,869.45 MT of fish, up by 2.3 percent from the 13,559.20 MT of fish products delivered to consumers in the same period last year.
For its Luzon ports, the agency said the Lucena Fish Port Complex unloaded 1,204.74 MT of fish products in September, lower than from the previous year’s 1,307.79 MT.
Fish delivered from the Bulan Fish Port Complex grew by over a third year-on-year to 1,674.85 MT in the reference month, from the 1,249.30 MT last year.
The PFDA said the sole port in the Visayas–Iloilo Fish Port Complex–managed
(DPWH) and the creation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to facilitate the investigation of those involved in the said irregularities.
The investigation has resulted in the filing of charges against 37 individuals, including lawmakers, former DPWH officials, and contractors.
The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has frozen P6.3 billion worth of assets of parties suspected of involvement in the flood-control project corruption.
Marcos said he is determined to institutionalize the said reforms by using new technology to make public works-related processes more accessible to the public through a transparency portal, which will feature details on the contractor, location and status of the said projects.
to supply 2,511.36 of fish to consumers in September, up by 23.18 percent from 2,038.82 MT recorded in the previous year. Meanwhile, the country’s Mindanao ports—Zamboanga Fish Port Complex and Davao Fish Port Complex—supplied 457.55 MT and 57.38 MT of fish, respectively. These were lower than the 680.75 MT and 204.15 MT of fish delivered from the two Mindanao ports, respectively. The agency also said the Sual Fish Port delivered 6.12 MT of fish products in the reference September.
This year, the Department of Agriculture (DA) expects fisheries production to decline this year.
“Our prediction for this year’s fisheries production is definitely lower because last year was an El Niño year,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. told reporters in a previous interview.
“Based on my 38 years of experience in the fishing industry, whenever the water is warm, production is always higher,” he said. “Since this year isn’t an El Niño year, production will be lower.”
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that the total volume of fisheries production in the July to September period reached 894,320 MT, down from 966,730 MT in the same quarter last year.
Historical data indicated that the latest figures represented the lowest level of fisheries output since the 852,378 MT recorded in the third quarter of 2004.
“We will monitor every step of this process carefully so that if we see something that is not right or against the rules and regulations, we will see it immediately and it will not be exposed only after two, three years like what is happening now,” he said in Filipino.
The President said they will also tap smart technologies to help in screening of public works contracts and structural integrity of the said projects.
“We have smart technology to check what the standard really is, if the construction is good. This is checking if the rebar is really being put in, if the concrete is really—if the cement is really thick, if the cement is to the right specification,” Marcos said.
“The other smart technology that we will use, the one I mentioned, will look at the contract process so that if we see something that is not right, we will see it immediately. We will list it, we will see it, we will go back and investigate why it happened that way,” he added.
respondents for violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, Malversation and Falsification provisions of the Revised Penal Code, Government Procurement Reform Act and Presidential Decree 1759 which penalizes contractors and subcontractors who violate any provisions of contracts involving public works projects of the government, and public officials who allow such violations.
The investigating body, which was created by President Marcos
and
of the
for
of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. The report involves the construction of riverbank protection structure at Barangay Carillo, Hagonoy, Bulacan, implemented by Darcy & Anna Builders & Trading, with original contract amounting to P74,111,970. Based on a report endorsed by the Commission on Audit (COA), the ICI said, it was established that no structure was constructed at the location. despite the unwarranted release and full payment of the contract cost by the DPWH to Darcy & Anna Builders & Trading. “Finding no plausible or lawful justification for the acts committed, the Commission deems it imperative to recommend to the Honorable Ombudsman the immediate initiation of the appropriate charges, as may be deemed proper, to redress the grave injury inflicted
Comelec now investigates truthfulness of submitted SOCEs
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
HE Commission on Elec -
Ttions (Comelec) announced on Thursday that it has begun verifying the truthfulness of items declared by candidates in their Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCEs).
Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia said the poll body’s Political and Finance Affairs Department (PFAD) is already reviewing the submitted reports to determine whether funding sources were reported accurately. “After the investigation we
conducted on contractors in 2022 and 2025...we are now examining SOCEs individually—whether the declarations were correct, whether items should have been included or were omitted. It also helps that some personalities have issued public statement, In some ways, those can serve as reference points,” Garcia told reporters.
The inquiry follows Senator Rodante Marcoleta’s admission that he intentionally excluded the names of his campaign donors from his SOCE to honor their request to remain anonymous.
Marcoleta’s SOCE indicates
DepEd, PLDT, Smart, CVIF team up to roll out resilient learning program nationwide
TO help education gradually continue through flexible and compassionate learning approaches, the Department of Education (DepEd) formally partnered with PLDT Inc., Smart Communications, Inc., and the Central Visayan Institute Foundation (CVIF) to expand the implementation of the Dynamic Learning Program (DLP) nationwide in the aftermath of Super Typhoon “Uwan” and Typhoon “Tino.”
Echoing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for swift and effective action in helping affected communities, DepEd has activated the Dynamic Learning Program (DLP) as the primary Alternative Delivery Mode (ADM) for Junior High School students, alongside Learning Packets for Kinder, Elementary, and Senior High School learners—ensuring that education continues safely and meaningfully even amid recovery efforts.
Ang kaligtasan ng mga bata ang unang isinasaisip natin. Pero kapag ligtas na ang mga mag-aaral at may pagkakataon, tuloy dapat ang pagaaral ,” said Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara.
The CVIF-DLP, developed by Ramon Magsaysay Awardees Dr. Chris Bernido and the late Dr. Marivic Carpio-Bernido, promotes independent learning through single-page Learning Activity Sheets (LAS) that break down complex lessons into manageable exercises.
The DLP for Junior High School students promotes independent, self-directed learning and is designed to be adaptable to the learner’s environment.
Complementing this, Learning
Packets are distributed for Kinder, Elementary, and Senior High School students, offering ageappropriate exercises in writing, reading comprehension, speaking, and problem-solving. Printed copies are deployed to affected schools and evacuation centers, while digital versions remain accessible online.
Meanwhile, for younger learners in early grade levels who require greater guidance, curated educational videos have also been made available for streaming and download, providing flexible support for parents or guardians.
DepEd’s collaboration with PLDT, Smart, and CVIF formalizes years of partnership in scaling the DLP nationwide. Since 2010, the program has trained over 32,000 teachers and reached more than 1,000 schools.
“The agreement with DepEd will widen access to this proven learning solution, which was conceptualized, tested, and proven effective right here in the Philippines,” Manuel V. Pangilinan, Chairman and CEO of PLDT, said.
DepEd also confirmed that printed copies of Learning Activity Sheets and Learning Packets will be distributed to affected communities, while online links will be accessible for easier reference and wider reach.
Sa panahon ng kalamidad, hindi dapat maputol ang pag-asa at pagkatuto...Iyan ang pangako ng DepEd— na kahit anong unos, tuloy-tuloy ang edukasyon para sa bawat batang Pilipino,” Angara said. Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco-
NGCP confident of meeting DOE deadline to restore typhoon-damaged power lines
THE National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) is confident it will be able to meet the deadline set by the Department of Energy (DOE) to restore the transmission lines affected by typhoons Tino and Uwan.
“Right now, NGCP can make that deadline,” said company spokesperson Atty. Cynthia Alabanza.
The DOE has given the NGCP 10 days or up to November 20 to fix damaged transmission lines and restore transmission service. Based on DOE data released early this week, there are 108 transmissions lines affected by Typhoon Uwan. Of which, 83 have already been restored. Meanwhile, all 55 affected transmission lines from Typhoon Tino were restored last November 8.
Alabanza clarified that loss of power may be caused by affected transmission facilities of NGCP or distribution utilities or electric cooperatives.
“There are 16 toppled structures. We have 12 leaning structures. Then, there are 26 other facilities that have cut conductors or cut cables,” Alabanza earlier said.
that he spent P112.8 million for his 2025 senatorial campaign— more than twice his declared 2025 Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), which amounts to P51.9 million.
Garcia said PFAD is now studying the process for requesting certified true copies of SALNs so these can be compared against the financial sources declared in SOCEs.
The poll chief also explained that once sufficient evidence suggests inaccuracies in a candidate’s SOCE, the Comelec will summon the concerned official.
However, he stressed that being summoned does not equate to guilt.
“Of course, candidates or public officials must be given the proper avenue to explain themselves. Everyone should remember that we have what we call the presumption of innocence. Investigations should not be carried out on social media—there must be a level of formality,” he said.
On Marcoleta’s case ASKED about Marcoleta, Garcia said he personally believes the process could move faster if someone
files a formal election case.
“In my view, it would proceed more quickly. We do not encourage such actions—it depends on the individuals concerned—but like any petition, once a formal filing is made, we will immediately issue the corresponding notices to all involved parties,” he said.
He noted that such cases follow a different timeline from motu proprio investigations.
Independent watchdog Kontra Daya earlier said it will “consider all options” regarding a possible case against Marcoleta.
According to Comelec, falsify -
DOH targets 12 million TB screenings by 2026 with new elimination plan
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3
THE Department of Health
(DOH) aims to screen 12 million Filipinos nationwide by 2026, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen the country’s efforts against tuberculosis. This initiative will focus on prevention and treatment by expanding and accelerating the delivery of TB services.
Under the newly approved Philippine Strategic TB Elimination Plan Phase 2 (PhilSTEP2) 20252030, the DOH National Expenditure Program for 2026 proposes a budget of P4.2 billion, which is nearly twice of the P2.6 Billion budget in 2025.
“In the Philippines, we are already using ultra-portable AIpowered chest X-rays and WHOrecommended Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests [NAAT]` to quickly screen and diagnose TB cases. We are already using an innovative all-oral regimen for drug-resistant TB, that cuts the treatment from 2 years to only 6 months with a higher treatment success rate. We are integrating the complete cascade of care in DOH-governed BUCAS centers and primary care facilities under LGUs.” said Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa.
Prevention is further strengthened through the roll-out of
shorter Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment (TPT) regimens and contact investigation resulting in more than 50 percent increase in TPT enrollment in 2024. TPT has likewise been expanded to cover contacts of drug-resistant TB cases and is now under advanced programmatic implementation.
Children with non-severe drug susceptible TB are now offered shortened treatment from 6 to 4 months using 2HRZE/2HR regimen. The complete continuum of care for Filipinos affected with TB is provided by the government.
Alongside these efforts, the DOH is broadening social and behavior change communication initiatives that reach every barangay and purok. Communitybased health education caravans, including the TPTodo campaign, highlight the importance of taking TPT and recognizing the benefits of seeking early care.
DOH is also leading a comprehensive national effort to end TB through the Philippine Acceleration Action Plan for Tuberculosis (PAAP-TB 2023–2035) which provides the multisectoral framework for joint action among government agencies, civil society, and private partners to eliminate TB by 2035.
“Tuberculosis is a global challenge, and progress in any country means bringing the world closer
to ending the disease. We know what works, and we’re seeing some encouraging results here in the Philippines,” said Acting WHO Representative to the Philippines, Dr. Eunyoung Ko. Ko said that WHO remains steadfast in its support for DOH at the central and sub-national levels.
“Together, we are strengthening case-finding, getting more people on preventive medicines, and helping people who are infected stick to their treatment plan. Places like Guimaras—which is aiming to become the country’s first TB-free island—are showing what can be achieved,” the WHO official added.
In 2024, an estimated 10.7 million TB cases occurred globally, 6.8 percent of which were in the Philippines.
This is equivalent to 625 Filipinos developing TB per 100,000 population. TB remains one of the leading causes of death in the country, claiming an estimated 98 Filipino lives each day, though this also reflects a 3 percent reduction from the previous year.
The DOH and WHO reaffirm their commitment to strong multisectoral collaboration and the expansion of TB services to curb transmission, improve treatment outcomes, and move closer to ending TB in the Philippines by 2030.
SC junks petition of pro-Duterte bloggers assailing House Tricom inquiry on the spread of fake news
ing a SOCE is an election offense punishable by one to six years of imprisonment. It may also constitute perjury and falsification of a public document.
As for the removal of any elected official who falsified their SOCE, Garcia said that authority rests with the government office to which the official belongs.
“There are separate jurisdictions when it comes to removal from office. Of course, whatever the Comelec finds may serve as basis for filing an administrative case against the official,” he added.
PNP: Sufficient forces to be deployed to secure three-day peace rallies
By Rex Anthony Naval
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday announced that a sufficient security force will be deployed to secure the threeday peace rallies that will be held in various parts of Metro Manila. In a statement, acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. assured the public of both maximum tolerance and a meticulous system to manage police personnel fatigue.
He added that 16,433 police officers from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and supported units will be deployed to secure the assemblies not only in Luneta and the EDSA People Power Monument but also other areas where lightning rallies are expected to be held from Nov. 16 to 18.
Meanwhile, around 1,400 policemen will be positioned at the Ayala Bridge while 1,100 officers will be at Recto Avenue to secure the areas where violent rallyists sparked a riot during a previous protest on Sept. 21. “I have directed the NCRPO to ensure maximum tolerance and maintain a high level of discipline and professionalism among all deployed personnel. Our goal is to keep the activity peaceful, orderly, and safe for everyone, both participants and the general public,” Nartatez stated.
Part of the security plan is to ensure that adjustments are immediately done as he emphasized the necessity of real-time monitoring of the situation on the ground.
He also addressed concerns about the continuous deployment of police officers since September to safeguard the Black Friday anti-corruption protests held since September.
“When we say that it’s partial, it doesn’t mean that there’s electricity in other areas. It’s possible that there are areas that have transmission services but the cooperatives aren’t ready yet,” she said. As of press time Thursday, NGCP has restored the Naga-Lagonoy 69 kiloVolt (kV) line but the La Trinidad-Sagada 69kV line remains unavailable.
The grid operator could not yet provide an estimate damage cost while restoration is ongoing. “We will think about it in a few days. Right now, our focus is restoration. It will take a few more months before we can estimate the cost of restoration,” added Alabanza.
The DOE, through the Task Force on Energy Resiliency (TFER), continues to conduct assessments and coordination with the stakeholders to rapidly and safely reinstate power and fuel services to affected communities nationwide. The typhoons incurred heavy and substantial damage to transmission and distribution facilities. Nevertheless, majority of the affected facilities with less damage are being restored within 24-hours. Lenie Lectura
TBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE Supreme Court (SC) has dismissed the petition filed by pro-Duterte vloggers seeking to stop the House of Representatives from conducting and requiring them to attend its inquiry on the spread of fake news online.
In a 19-page decision penned by Associate Justice Amy C. Lazaro-Javier, the SC held that the congressional inquiry did not violate the right to free speech of the vloggers who were invited as resource persons for criticizing certain public officials in their social media posts. But the SC noted that some
lawmakers’ questioning during the hearings was unduly “harsh or derogatory.”
It reminded lawmakers that resource speakers are entitled to their constitutional rights and should be treated with courtesy and respect during legislative inquiries.
“They also deserve a reasonable expectation that the legislators conducting the inquiries will accord them courtesy and respect “befitting that of any dignified human being,” the SC pointed out.
However, the SC said under Section 16 (3), Article VI of the Constitution, the power to discipline its members for any unparliamentary act is exclusively vested in Congress.
The House inquiry stemmed from Barber’s two privilege speeches wherein he raised concerns about a group allegedly spreading online misinformation and launching coordinated attacks against public officials.
In his privilege speeches delivered on December 4, 2024 and December 16, 2024 , Barbers referred to the petitioners as paid “trolls” and “malicious vloggers” who allegedly attacked him and public officials online This led three House committees—the Committees on Public Order and Safety; Information and Communications Technology; and Public Information (House Tri-Committee)—to hold a joint inquiry.
Rep. Leviste donates ₧6 billion to education and disaster relief
TO break the cycle of poverty in the Philippines, a lawmaker has donated P6 billion in shares and proceeds from share sales to assist underprivileged students and families affected by typhoons. He also urged politicians and contractors to voluntarily contribute part of their wealth to address pressing social challenges.
Through the Lingkod Legarda Leviste Foundation, Batangas Rep. Leandro Legarda Leviste said the donated shares are expected
Nartatez underscored the immediate implementation of welfare measures to maintain operational effectiveness without compromising the health of the police force.
“We’re making sure that our operational readiness remains high while protecting the welfare of our policemen. I always remind our commanders to look after their people to make sure that they remain healthy, alert, at handa sa serbisyo [ready for service],” he added.
Nartatez also said the PNP is continuing its coordination with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and local government units to ensure minimal disruption to surrounding traffic and communities.
“To be rich in the Philippines is like winning the lottery, and I believe the rich have a moral obligation to share what we have with our countrymen,” Leviste said.
“I hope that an increasing number of wealthy Filipinos will see that it is better to give away their wealth to the less
to generate at least P1 billion annually for the next 50 years, creating a long-term fund to support education and disaster relief in the Philippines. Leviste hopes that the efforts can help break the cycle of poverty in districts like his–the poorest in Batangas–by supporting the education of underprivileged students. Leviste, 32, turned to public service in 2024 after selling his controlling stake in SP New Energy Corporation to Meralco for around P34 billion. He plans to reinvest part of the proceeds in real estate and equities while pledging to eventually give away all of his wealth.
privileged than to leave so much behind for their children, following the example of philanthropists like Warren Buffet and Bill Gates,” he added. Leviste also urged politicians and contractors to voluntarily contribute part of their wealth toward tackling urgent social challenges.
“Given the issues facing our country now, I believe that it would be timely for more politicians and DPWH contractors to voluntarily give up more of their wealth [regardless of its source] to help solve our country’s problems,” Leviste added. Jovee Marie Dela Cruz
BARMM sets ambitious ₧1-B infra connectivity projects, public services in Lanao del Sur
AVAO CITY—the
DBangsamoro Ministry of Public Works (MPW) is embarking on its most ambitious infrastructure development yet for one province alone, scooping a whooping P1 billion on multiple projects on connectivity, and public facilities.
The big funding allocation came as the Bangsamoro government is also undertaking a bureaucracywide implementation of a digitalbased governance and standardized process through information and communication technology to strengthen transparency.
The ministry’s 2nd District Engineering Office of Lanao del Sur (LDS 2nd DEO) held a mass contract signing on November 10 in its southern municipality of Malabang to launch several infrastructure projects “to enhance road connectivity, water access, and public facilities across the district.”
The MPW said the projects amount to a total of P1.04 billion, with the funds to be taken from Regular Infrastructure Program 2025, Special Development Fund 2024, and Transitional Development Impact Fund 2024.
“This contract signing is not
DAR turns over ₧882K worth of assistance to Misamis Occidental corn farmers
THE Department of Agrarian Reform has turned over P882,000 worth of farm machinery and equipment to 3 agrarian reform beneficiary organizations (ARBOs) in Misamis Occidental.
The members of the ARBOs are among the province’s food producers who supply the local market with corn.
The support provided under the Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Project - Sustainable Livelihood Support (CRFPSP-SLS) is expected to help farmers adopt modern, efficient, and climatesmart agricultural practices.
Over 100 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) are expected to benefit from the newly distributed machinery, which includes corn mills and knapsack sprayers. The recipients are Balintonga CARPBA, Inc. in Aloran, Señor San Roque CARPBA, Inc. in Panaon, and Tipan Farmers Beneficiaries Association, Inc. in Sinacaban, the DAR said.
DAR-Misamis Occidental Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Rolando M. Libetario Jr. said the turnover underscores DAR’s continuing commitment to empowering farmers through technology and innovation.
“By providing machinery tailored to their production needs, we help our farmers save time, reduce costs, and achieve better-quality yields, even amid adverse weather or road disruptions,” Libetario said.
Panaon Mayor Francisco Paylaga Jr., thanked DAR for its continued collaboration with local governments in strengthening agricultural communities.
“When government agencies like DAR work hand in hand with us, our farmers become more capable, more confident, and more hopeful. We are deeply grateful for DAR’s commitment to helping us build a stronger and more productive agricultural community here in Panaon,” Mayor Paylaga said.
Leaders of the recipient organizations echoed the mayor’s sentiment, expressing appreciation for the project’s immediate benefits to their farms.
“This is a big help for us farmers. We are truly grateful for the support extended to us and our members. Thank you very much to DAR,” said Peter L. Eltagon, President of Señor San Roque CARPBA, Inc. Each turnover was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement and Trust Agreement between DAR-Misamis Occidental and the ARBOs, outlining responsibilities for the proper use and maintenance of the machinery. Jonathan L. Mayuga
merely a procedural event; it is a symbol of renewed commitment, a collective declaration that we are here to build not only infrastructure but also trust, hope, and opportunity for our people in the Bangsamoro,” said Abdul Maomit Tomawis, MPW Deputy Minister and District Engineer.
The newly signed contracts cover the construction of roads, bridges, lake walls, drainage systems, water systems, and a fish landing facility in various barangays within the 2nd District of Lanao del Sur. Once completed, these projects are expected to improve mobility, enhance local trade and transport efficiency, and provide better access to essential services for residents.
The second district engineering office covers the areas under the province’s second legislative district, comprising the 21 municipalities along the southern part of Lake Lanao and the Moro Gulf, and those at the border with Maguindanao del Norte.
Tomawis said the mass signing of contracts marked the MPW’s “renewed commitment to strengthen project management and supervision, ensure trans -
parency and accountability, and most importantly, deliver quality projects that truly benefit the Bangsamoro people”.
Sadick Lao of Andong Builders and General Merchandise, who represented the contractors, pledged full cooperation. “On behalf of all the contractors, we commit to fulfill the terms stipulated in our respective contracts and complete these projects on time,” Lao said.
A day after the signing in Malabang, Lanao del Sur, the Bangsamoro Information and Communications Technology Office (BICTO) conducted a workshop in Cotabato City among offices and agencies of the regional government “to strengthen digital governance and standardize ICT processes across Bangsamoro ministries, offices, and agencies [BMOAs]”.
“The workshop stands as a vital milestone in advancing the region’s digital transformation journey, strengthening coordination, promoting innovation, ensuring that every ICT initiative contributes to a more responsive, data driven, and future ready Bangsamoro Government,” BICTO said on its Facebook page. Manuel T. Cayon
DA, TESDA forge stronger ties to modernize farm training, boost food producers’ skills
By Ma. Alyanna Selda
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) will work with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to modernize agricultural training programs, a move that aims to integrate new technologies and improve productivity across the farming and fisheries sector.
A griculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and TESDA Director General Kiko Benitez have outlined a series of updated training modules covering rice machinery operation, agri-entrepreneurship and postharvest technologies to improve food security and raise producer incomes, according to a press release on Thursday.
T iu Laurel said the partnership comes at the need for a technology-driven agriculture to keep pace with the introduction of new equipmen t, greenhouse systems and improved seed varieties.
“We’re aligning our plans with the President’s vision for a modern, technologydriven agriculture. With new machinery, greenhouses, and improved seeds coming in, our farmers and fisherfolk must be fully equipped to handle these innovations,” he said, adding that the DA is also planning the revival of agricultural extension services to enhance field-level support for farmers.
The collaboration covers specialized instruction in cold storage management, refrigeration systems and fisheries postharvest and canning operations. TESDA is
pr eparing the technical modules for these courses in coordination with the DA’s Fisheries and Development Council. U nder the collaboration, TESDA also plans to roll out new programs next year on cooperative management, butchery and slaughterhouse operations and seaweed processing, which would all be included in its national curriculum.
Both agencies will establish greenhouses and nurseries for high-value crops, a mo ve they said would reduce reliance on imported seedlings, which currently accounts for 70 percent of the local supply.
“Focusing our efforts on agriculture allows us to cultivate opportunities for Filipinos. Through skills training and innovation, TESDA empowers every Filipino farmer t o grow their crops with confidence in a changing world,” Benitez said. On top of its training on halal food production and fisheries-related livelihoods, TESDA is set to employ institution, enterprise and community-based learning modes for pr ograms such as the Diploma in Fisheries Technology, Aquaculture NC II, Organic Agriculture Production NC II, and Animal Production (Poultry/Swine) NC II.
The agency has also improved international linkages through partnerships with the A grostudies International Training Center in Israel, which provides 11-month internships focused on advanced farm technologies, horticulture, animal sciences and agribusiness.
Nartatez commits to the repairs of police facilities damaged by ‘Uwan’
Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez on Thursday has committed to the fast repair and rehabilitation of all police stations and facilities damaged by Super Typhoon “Uwan” This is under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos to ensure continuity of public service and prioritization of immediate recovery and welfare of government personnel and facilities affected by the typhoon.
“We are expediting all the necessary procedures to start the repair and rehabilitation of all our facilities damaged by the typhoons. This also comes with providing all the necessary assistance to our affected personnel,” Nartatez said
Earlier reports said the super typhoon’s onslaught severely damaged the Casiguran Municipal Police Station in Aurora where the station’s barracks were destroyed, forcing police officers to per -
form their duties and temporarily shelter in an empty detention cell to maintain operations.
“Our personnel [in] areas affected by the typhoons have been working hard and making sacrifices to ensure the safety and welfare of our kababayan, we will make sure that their morale and welfare will be among our priorities,” he stressed. Thousands of policemen were mobilized to assist in disaster response—from the earthquakes that hit Cebu and Surigao del Sur to the two recent strong typhoons that affected Luzon and the Visayas.
While the presence of PNP personnel are assured for disaster response, Nartatez said they are also aware that some of the local policemen are also victims of the calamities. And beyond the facility repairs, Nartatez also ensured comprehensive aid for all personnel affected by the super typhoon, including their families. Rex Anthony Naval
Gintong Parangal
Gintong Parangal
Friday, November 14, 2025
Jails soon populated by graft, corruption suspects
By Samuel P. Medenilla
@sam_medenilla
ARIOUS jails will soon have
V“illustrious” denizens as the suspects in the massive graft and corruption that were allegedly committed in the implementation of flood-control projects are expected to be detained soon. President Marcos on Thursday said there will be no Merry Christmas for some of those charged for their alleged involvement in flood-control project corruption and they are expected to be detained in the next few weeks.
In a news conference in Malacañang,
a Palace press briefing when asked why Co’s passport has yet to be cancelled, allowing him to fly to other countries.
“However, when the time comes, we will immediately cancel his passport,” he added.
Republic Act 11983, or the New Philippine Passport Act, states that the Department of Foreign Affairs may only cancel or revoke a passport if it was acquired fraudulently, tampered with, or issued erroneously; or upon orders of the court when the holder has been convicted of a
the Chief Executive said the Ombudsman is expected to issue resolutions on some of the filed cases before the end of the year.
“Before Christmas, many of these people named here I think will be in what… Their cases will be over, the cases will be complete [filed in court]. They will be locked up. They won’t have a Merry Christmas. Before Christmas, they will be locked up,” he said in Filipino after presenting slides containing the names of accused of being involved in flood control anomalies.
The slide included the names of the 37 individuals, including lawmakers, former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials and contractors, who are
criminal offense or is a fugitive from justice.
The Department of Public Works and Highways, Commission on Audit and the Independent Commission for Infrastructure have filed multiple complaints before the Office of the Ombudsman against over a dozen officials and contractors accused of implementing ghost projects and rigging bids for flood control programs.
Tiangco presses cancellation
MEANWHILE a legislator related by affinity to Marcos said that “to dispel growing suspicions that the government may no longer want Co to return, the DFA
part of the first batch of case referrals to the Ombudsman.
The list included the names of Sens. Joel Villanueva, Jinggoy Estrada, former representative Zaldy Co, former Caloocan Rep. Mitch Cajayon-Uy, Commission on Audit Commissioner Mario Lipana, former DPWH Secretary Manual Bonoan, former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, and former DPWH undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral. They are facing criminal charges for graft and corruption, malversation, falsification, and plunder, as well as administrative charges for public officers.
Marcos made the assurance amid growing public pressure for the government
should revoke his passport, citing the New Philippine Passport Act or Republic Act 11983 as the legal basis for its cancellation “on grounds of national security.”
Navotas City Rep. Toby Tiangco, whose wife is a first cousin of the President, in a televised interview, said Co’s continued possession of a Philippine passport poses a potential threat, adding that the government has clear authority under the new law to cancel it immediately.
“For me, this is a national security issue. With so many people protesting and expressing outrage, isn’t that already a matter of national security? The DFA can cancel his passport even without an order
to hold accountable the people linked to public works irregularities.
He explained it took the government some time to file the charges to make sure these will be airtight and not dismissed by the Ombudsman.
“You know, we all want justice to be served quickly. But if we’ve learned anything from the past, it’s that it’s better to be careful and take a little longer than to rush and make mistakes,” Marcos said.
“With every second we give to the investigation, we make sure that every case filed against the abusers has sufficient evidence and will not lead to the dismissal of the case,” he added.
from the President. The question is, why aren’t they doing it?,” Tiangco, who is not a lawyer, asked.
The lawmaker noted that either President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. or the DFA secretary can order the cancellation of Co’s passport at any time.
Citing the New Philippine Passport Act, Tiangco said the DFA secretary may cancel a passport if its holder poses a threat to national security or is facing criminal or administrative investigations.
Tiangco questioned why the DFA has yet to act, warning that the delay could allow Co to obtain travel documents from another country and evade accountability over the
Dole to recalibrate job targets
THE Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) is recalibrating its labor and employment targets after completing regional consultations for the midterm review of the Labor and Employment Plan (LEP) 2023–2028.
Dole said the review assessed progress made since the plan was launched three years ago and examined areas where program implementation needs to be strengthened.
The agency said the exercise will guide adjustments to its job-generation and labor protection strategies for the remaining half of the LEP.
“The midterm review will allow the
alleged flood control fund insertions.
“People are beginning to suspect that maybe the government doesn’t really want Zaldy to return. What I want is for him to come home so that these doubts in people’s minds can be erased.”
Tiangco earlier revealed the insertion of billions in flood control projects after attending a Malacañang meeting on March 24, where he was asked to present a list of projects reportedly endorsed by lawmakers.
department to reflect on its achievements, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that its strategies truly respond to the realities faced by Filipino workers and enterprises,” it said.
In a statement, the deparment said the review looked at key priorities of the LEP, including the creation of more productive and sustainable jobs, the promotion of fair labor practices, and the expansion of social protection.
It also examined how current programs are addressing ongoing challenges such as unemployment, informality, and the growing mismatch between available jobs and workers’ skills. Justine Xyrah Garcia
Co was the chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations before resigning shortly after the approval of the 2025 national budget. With Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz, Sam Medenilla and PNA upon the Government and the public interest, and to ensure that the erring public officials are held fully accountable for their actions,” the report stated.
The ICI said that Bonoan and the other DPWH officials should be administratively held liable as it appears that they were “grossly negligent, if not remiss, in the performance of their respective duties to ensure that the project was properly implemented and that government funds were lawfully and prudently disbursed.”
Editor: Angel R. Calso
Russian army captures 3 settlements in Zaporizhzhia as fighting intensifies
By Illia Novikov
The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—The Russian army overran three settlements in the southern Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine, Kyiv’s top military commander said Wednesday, as Moscow’s forces expand their efforts to capture more Ukrainian territory.
Dense fog enabled Russian troops to infiltrate Ukrainian positions in Zaporizhzhia, Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi wrote on the messaging app Telegram, adding that Ukrainian units are locked in “grueling battles” to repel the Russian thrust.
He noted, however, that the fiercest battles are still in the besieged Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, in the eastern Donetsk region, where close to half of all front-line clashes took place over the previous 24 hours.
The cities of Kupiansk and Lyman in Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkiv region have also recently witnessed an uptick in combat.
Russia launched its full-scale invasion of its neighbor almost four years ago and now occupies roughly one fifth of Ukrainian land. New US sanctions that take aim at Russia’s oil sector, which is the mainstay of the Russian economy, are due to come into force on Nov. 21. Their purpose is to compel Russian President Vladimir Putin to accept a ceasefire.
Kyiv officials, meanwhile, risk be -
ing distracted by a growing corruption scandal engulfing senior members of the government. Ukraine’s Justice Minister Herman Halushchenko was suspended from his post Wednesday after being placed under investigation, Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko announced.
Russian gains come at a cost THE US sanctions on Russia’s biggest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, raise the stakes for Putin. The Russian leader has so far avoided serious top-level peace negotiations, with Ukrainian and Western officials ac -
cusing him of stalling for time while his army tries to grab more Ukrainian territory. International peace efforts have come to nothing.
Russia’s bigger and better-equipped army has scaled up its attacks, placing the short-handed Ukrainian military under severe strain. Ukrainian officials said in September that the front line has grown in length to nearly 1,250 kilometers (800 miles). Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said earlier this month that Russia had deployed around 170,000 troops in Donetsk.
Over the past four weeks, the
Russian Defense Ministry has reported capturing nine settlements and villages in Donetsk: eight in the Zaporizhzhia region, seven in the Dnipropetrovsk region and five in the Kharkiv region.
Russia’s corrosive war of attrition has been costly in terms of casualties and armor, however, and Ukraine has held it to incremental battlefield gains.
The Institute for the Study of War said Russia’s siege of Pokrovsk, where it has deployed elite drone operators and “spetsnaz” special forces soldiers, has been slow-moving because its military commanders are spreading their resources widely.
Russia is pursuing several offensive operations across the theater simultaneously and is having difficulty extending logistical operations, the Washington-based think tank said late Tuesday.
Ukraine, meanwhile, has launched sustained long-range drone attacks on high-value military-related assets inside Russia.
Its latest assault hit the Stavrolen chemical plant in Budionnovsk, in the Stavropol region of Russia, overnight, according to the general staff. The plant produces polymers for composite materials used by the Russian military, it said.
Associated Press writer Dasha Litvinova in Tallinn, Estonia, contributed to this report.
Protests paralyze Bangladesh over ousted PM Hasina’s trial
By Julhas Alam The Associated Press
DHAKA, Bangladesh—Classes and transportation in Bangladesh were seriously disrupted Thursday as ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her former ruling Awami League party called for a nationwide “lockdown” in protest against her trial over last year’s protests that left hundreds dead.
Hasina faces charges of crimes against humanity involving a crackdown on the student-led uprising that ended her 15-year rule in August 2024. She has been in exile in India since then and has not been seen in public or online.
A special tribunal in Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka, is expected to announce a verdict against Hasina on Monday, chief prosecutor Tajul Islam said during a news conference Thursday.
Hasina’s now-banned Awami League party urged its supporters and others to protest while the government and opposition to Hasina vowed to stop them. Schools in Dhaka and major cities across Bangladesh switched to online classes and examinations while public transportation was severely disrupted Thursday as the government heightened security across the country.
Dhaka has suffered incidents of vandalism this week as usually clogged streets remained mostly empty Thursday.
A fire bomb was thrown at a govern -
ment office in Gopalganj district, which is Hasina’s ancestral home and a stronghold for her party. An office of Grameen Bank, a small loan institution founded by Bangladesh’s current interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, was torched Wednesday in eastern Bangladesh, local media reported. Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate along with Grameen Bank, is expected to address the nation Thursday afternoon, his press office said. Yunus took over as the head of an interim government three days after Hasina’s fall on Aug. 5, 2024, and vowed to punish her.
Explosions of crude bombs and torched vehicles were reported over the past three days in Dhaka and elsewhere, indicating that political chaos will continue in the country, which has a history of political violence.
On Wednesday evening, arson was reported on a train and a bus in Dhaka, and crude bombs went off earlier in the day on
the Dhaka University campus.
On Thursday morning, soldiers along with other security agencies were deployed to guard the premises of the special tribunal, which is overseeing a case involving
See “Protests,” A12
G7 pledges more support for Ukraine amid Russian attacks, new sanctions announced
By Rob Gillies & Matthew Lee The Associated Press
IAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, Ontario—
NTop diplomats from the Group of Seven industrialized democracies publicly showed their consensus on Ukraine and Sudan on Wednesday, but stayed away from contentious issues like the US military strikes on boats in the Caribbean and trade.
The foreign ministers of the G7 met with Ukraine’s foreign minister on Wednesday as Kyiv tries to fend off Russian aerial attacks that have brought rolling blackouts across the country. Andriy Sybiha said Ukraine needs the support of its partners to survive what will be a “very difficult, very tough winter.”
“We have to move forward to pressure Russia, to raise the price for the aggression, for Russia, for (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, to end this war,” Sybiha said.
The G7 ministers said in a joint statement at the conclusion of the two-day gathering that they are increasing the economic costs to Russia and exploring measures against those who finance Russia’s war efforts.
Canada announced more sanctions against Russia, including targeting those involved in the development and deployment of drones, and Britain, a day earlier, pledged money for Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio made no immediate announcements about new US initiatives but said on social media that the meeting delved into ways “to strengthen Ukraine’s defense and find an end to this bloody conflict.”
“We are doing whatever is necessary to support Ukraine,” Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said.
The meeting in Niagara-on-the-Lake, near the US border, followed US President Donald Trump’s decision to end trade talks with Canada after the Ontario provincial government ran an anti-tariff advertisement in the US, which upset him. That followed a spring of acrimony, since abated, over the
president’s insistence that Canada should become the 51st US state.
Anand declined to talk about the trade dispute.
“I am here to talk about the work that the G7 ministers are doing,” she said. “And that is exactly what I think should be discussing.”
Anand met with Rubio, but said she did not bring up trade talks, noting that a different minister leads the trade issue.
US military strikes also ‘didn’t come up’ THE Trump administration says the US military has killed at least 75 people in 19 known strikes against what it says are drugsmuggling vessels in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean since early September. The administration has been under pressure from Congress to provide more information about who is being targeted and the legal justification for the strikes.
Rubio told reporters that questions about the military campaign and intelligence sharing in support of the operations were not raised with him at all by any of his G7 or other counterparts on Wednesday.
“It didn’t come up once,” Rubio said. He also denied a report that Britain has stopped sharing intelligence.
“Again, nothing has changed or happened that has impeded in any way our ability to do what we’re doing. Nor are we asking anyone to help us with what we’re doing—in any realm. And that includes military,” Rubio said.
Strong statements on Sudan THE G7 ministers in their joint statement strongly condemned the recent escalation of violence in war-torn Sudan, and Rubio decried the humanitarian situation and said “something needs to be done” to cut off the weapons and other support that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces are receiving as they battle the Sudanese army. Asked by reporters about the role of the United Arab Emirates in the conflict, Rubio said the US knows who’s involved in supplying the RSF.
former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan and former Police Chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun.
IN this photo provided by Ukraine’s 93rd Kholodnyi Yar Separate Mechanized Brigade press service, servicemen evacuate their wounded fellow soldier Oleg Solonchak near Kostyantynivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. IRYNA RYBAKOVA/UKRAINE’S 93RD MECHANIZED BRIGADE VIA AP
Partisan divide remains as Trump signs bill ending 43-day shutdown
By Kevin Freking, Joey Cappelletti & Matt Brown
WThe Associated Press
ASHINGTON—President
Donald Trump signed a government funding bill
Wednesday night, ending a record 43day shutdown that caused financial stress for federal workers who went without paychecks, stranded scores of travelers at airports and generated long lines at some food banks.
The shutdown magnified partisan divisions in Washington as Trump took unprecedented unilateral actions—including canceling projects and trying to fire federal workers—to pressure Democrats into relenting on their demands.
The Republican president blamed the situation on Democrats and suggested voters shouldn’t reward the party during next year’s midterm elections.
“So, I just want to tell the American people, you should not forget this,” Trump said. “When we come up to midterms and other things, don’t forget what they’ve done to our country.”
The signing ceremony came just hours after the House passed the measure on a mostly party-line vote of 222-209. The Senate had already passed the measure Monday.
Democrats wanted to extend an enhanced tax credit expiring at the end of the year that lowers the cost of health coverage obtained through Affordable Care Act marketplaces. They refused to go along with a short-term spending bill that did not include that priority. But Republicans said that was a separate policy fight to be held at another time.
“We told you 43 days ago from bitter experience that government shutdowns don’t work,” said Rep. Tom Cole, the Republican chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. “They never achieve the objective that you announce. And guess what? You haven’t achieved that objective yet, and you’re not going to.”
A bitter end after a long stalemate THE frustration and pressures generated by the shutdown was reflected when lawmakers debated the spending measure on the House floor.
Republicans said Democrats sought to use the pain generated by the shutdown to prevail in a policy dispute.
“They knew it would cause pain and they did it anyway,” House Speaker Mike Johnson said.
Democrats said Republicans raced to pass tax breaks earlier this year that they say mostly will benefit the wealthy. But the bill before the House Wednesday “leaves families twisting in the wind with zero guarantee there will ever, ever be a vote to extend tax credits to help everyday people pay for their health care,” said Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass. Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats would not give up on the subsidy extension even if the vote did not go their way.
“This fight is not over,” Jeffries said. “We’re just getting started.”
The House had not been in legislative session since Sept. 19, when it passed a short-term measure to keep the government open when the new budget year began in October. Johnson sent lawmakers home after that vote and put the onus on the Senate to act, saying House Republicans had done their job.
What’s in the bill to end the shutdown
THE legislation is the result of a deal reached by eight senators who broke ranks with the Democrats after reaching the conclusion that Republicans would not bend on using a government funding to extend the health care tax credits.
The compromise funds three an -
nual spending bills and extends the rest of government funding through Jan. 30. Republicans promised to hold a vote by mid-December to extend the health care subsidies, but there is no guarantee of success.
The bill includes a reversal of the firing of federal workers by the Trump administration since the shutdown began. It also protects federal workers against further layoffs through January and guarantees they are paid once the shutdown is over. The bill for the Agriculture Department means people who rely on key food assistance programs will see those benefits funded without threat of interruption through the rest of the budget year.
The package includes $203.5 million to boost security for lawmakers and an additional $28 million for the security of Supreme Court justices.
Democrats also decried language in the bill that would give senators the opportunity to sue when a federal agency or employee searches their electronic records without notifying them, allowing for up to $500,000 in potential damages for each violation.
The language seems aimed at helping Republican senators pursue damages if their phone records were analyzed by the FBI as part of an investigation into Trump’s efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss. The provisions drew criticism from Republicans as well. Johnson said he was “very angry about it.”
“That was dropped in at the last minute, and I did not appreciate that, nor did most of the House members,” Johnson said, promising a vote on the
matter as early as next week.
The biggest point of contention, though, was the fate of the expiring enhanced tax credit that makes health insurance more affordable through Affordable Care Act marketplaces.
“It’s a subsidy on top of a subsidy. Our friends added it during Covid,” Cole said. “Covid is over. They set a date certain that the subsidies would run out. They chose the date.”
Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said the enhanced tax credit was designed to give more people access to health care and no Republican voted for it.
“All they have done is try to eliminate access to health care in our country. The country is catching on to them,” Pelosi said. Without the enhanced tax credit, premiums on average will more than double for millions of Americans.
More than 2 million people would lose health insurance coverage altogether next year, the Congressional Budget Office projected.
Health care debate ahead
IT’S unclear whether the parties will find any common ground on health care before the December vote in the Senate. Johnson has said he will not commit to bringing it up in his chamber.
Some Republicans have said they are open to extending the Covid-19 pandemic-era tax credits as premiums will soar for millions of people, but they also want new limits on who can receive the subsidies. Some argue that the tax dollars for the plans should be routed through individuals rather than go directly to insurance companies.
Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, said Monday that she was supportive of extending the tax credits with changes, such as new income caps. Some Democrats have signaled they could be open to that idea.
House Democrats expressed great skepticism that the Senate effort would lead to a breakthrough.
Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, said Republicans have wanted to repeal the health overhaul for the past 15 years. “That’s where they’re trying to go,” she said.
Associated Press writer Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.
Ceasefire breakdown: Villager killed in Thailand-Cambodia border clash
By Sopheng Cheang & Grant Peck
Associated Press
HNOM PENH, Cambodia—Cambo -
Pdia’s prime minister said a villager was killed when shooting broke out Wednesday along the volatile border with Thailand, as the ceasefire partly brokered by US President Donald Trump that ended five days of combat between the two nations appeared to be breaking down.
The reported death occurred two days after a Thai solder lost a foot to a land mine while patrolling another area of the border. Thailand blamed Cambodia for the blast and announced it was suspending honoring the terms of the ceasefire, which was originally agreed to on July 28.
Trump had threatened to withhold trade privileges from the two countries unless they stopped fighting. The pact was reaffirmed in greater detail last month when Trump attended an Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit meeting in Malaysia.
Territorial disputes over exactly where the border lies between the Southeast Asian neighbors led to five days of armed conflict in late July that killed dozens of soldiers and civilians.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Tuesday went to the border to visit frontline troops and told reporters that Thailand had consistently sought to honor the ceasefire agreement, but that Cambodia had tried to delay progress, so Thailand would also not carry out its terms.
“Today, we consider that the deal that we made in order to bring peace is now over, “ he said. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura later clarified that Thailand has not officially withdrawn from the agreement but has only paused its implementation.
According to a statement posted on the Telegram social media platform by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, one civilian was killed and three others wounded when Thai troops opened fire on civilians residing in the area of Prey Chan in Cambodia’s northwestern province of Banteay Meanchey.
The same village was the site of a violent but not lethal confrontation in September between Thai security personnel and Cambodian villagers.
“It should be noted that this attack occurred after the Thai forces engaged in numerous provocative actions for many days with the objective of instigating confrontations,” Hun Manet wrote, adding that Cambodia still accepted the ceasefire terms. The Thai military said the incident began when Cambodian soldiers allegedly fired into a district in Thailand’s eastern province of Sa Kaeo.
“Thai forces took cover and fired warning shots in response, following rules of engagement,” said a statement from army spokesperson Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree. “The incident lasted about 10 minutes before calm was restored. No Thai casualties were reported.”
A villager from Prey Chan contacted by phone recounted how she was starting to prepare dinner for her family when she heard gunshots come from territory held by Thailand.
“When I heard the gunshots, I immediately felt very scared and panicked,” said Hul Malis, a mother of four. “I didn’t know what to do, but I jumped into the bunker for safety. My husband, who was sleeping in the hammock, went into the bunker with me.” She said they built the shelter two months ago, Associated Press writer Peck reported from Bangkok.
“unnecessary burden” in the establishment and operation of telecommunications and broadcasting services.
imposed in other country, adding that only the Philippines and China restricts foreign ownership for mass media.
“Pero sa ibang bansa pwede ‘yung ibaibang [But in other countries, different] levels of ownership restrictions are provided for],” Serafica underscored.
Section 11, Article XVI of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states: “ (1) The ownership and management of mass media shall be limited to citizens of the Philippines, or to corporations, cooperatives or associations, wholly-owned and managed by such citizens.”
The same provision noted that the Congress shall regulate or prohibit monopolies in commercial mass media when the public interest so requires.
In relation to this, Serafica pointed out at the webinar that ownership of mass media by families is “not unique” to the Philippines. However, she said: “The additional characteristic in the case of the Philippines is the fact that the license to operate a broadcasting entity is granted by Congress instead of just a mere regulator.”
Al-Mamun is an “approver” in the case, meaning he pleaded guilty and became a state witness against Hasina. Al-Mamun was brought to the tribunal with tight security Thursday while Khan is believed to be in India. Both Hasina and Khan are being tried in absentia. The prosecution has not sought any punishment for Al-Mamun. Hasina was ousted after weeks of violence that left hundreds dead. The in -
terim government pledged parliamentary elections would be held in February, but Hasina’s Awami League has launched a campaign, mainly on social media, decrying the election if the party is not allowed to participate. The party says thousands of its supporters have been arrested across the country.
Islam, the chief prosecutor, sought the death penalty for Hasina last month, calling her the “mastermind and principal architect” behind crimes against humanity committed during the uprising. The Awami League has called the tribunal
a “kangaroo court.” Hasina has not appointed a lawyer and denounced the appointment of a lawyer by the state to represent her.
Up to 1,400 people may have been killed in the violence, according to a United Nations report in February. The country’s health adviser under the interim government said more than 800 people were killed and about 14,000 were injured.
Hasina disputed the figures and demanded an independent investigation.
Many Indian outlets published interviews with Hasina in recent weeks, all conducted via e-mail. The interviews apparently
irked Bangladesh’s current government. Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner in Dhaka Pawan Badhe to formally convey its concerns over India allowing “fugitive” Hasina to interact with mainstream Indian media.
Hasina in her interviews accused Yunus of backing Islamists and violating human and political rights, especially of supporters of her banned party. Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed, told The Associated Press on Wednesday that only an inclusive election could stabilize the country.
As such, Serafica underscored: “I hope when the time comes that we have to revisit the Constitution, we should also consider this particular provision.”
The study of Ramonette B. Serafica and Queen Cel A. Oren titled “Analysis of the Competition Landscape of Philippine Mass Media” pointed out that foreign ownership restriction in mass media “significantly” limits access to capital, technology, and expertise that are critical to remain competitive.
Meanwhile, the paper noted that another barrier is the legislative franchise requirement, which the paper pointed out is an
“Given that context and given this environment, it does suggest that political foreclosure is possible,” she also noted. Critics of the Duterte administration had precisely warned that such a “political foreclosure” was the case in the rejection by congressional allies of then-President Rodrigo Roa Duterte of the franchise of broadcasting giant ABS-CBN, leading to its shutdown. The research paper also called for government support for media organizations in the form of tax perks that would help retain their “editorial independence.”
“Media organizations usually aim for independence to retain their credibility and fairness. They exist not only for profit but also consider themselves as organizations providing public service,” the study of the local think tank noted.
As such, the paper pointed out: “They would appreciate it if the government recognized their contribution to society and provided them with tax incentives, which are more appropriate than subsidies or funding to retain their editorial independence.” Andrea E. San Juan
PRESIDENT Donald Trump signs the funding bill to reopen the government, in the Oval Office of the White House, Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025, in Washington. AP PHOTO/JACQUELYN MARTIN
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Enrile’s condition, following his confinement in intensive care in an undisclosed hospital, battling pneumonia.
Unwanted undersecretary to martial law administrator
A LITTLE-KNOWN footnote in the start of Enrile’s long, colorful career as public servant is that, despite the confidence in him of then President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., some in his inner circle disliked the young lawyer.
It was late evening on December 30, 1965, and top supporters of newly-sworn in President Ferdinand Marcos were celebrating at the flat of campaign manager Rafael Salas on Roxas Boulevard in Manila.
All of them except one, Juan Ponce-Enrile, had been given positions in the new administration. Salas was named executive secretary earlier that day.
Marcos wanted to appoint Ponce-Enrile as undersecretary of Justice, but the secretarydesignate, Jose Yulo opposed his appointment, telling Marcos, “Mr. President, I an Mr. NEPA [National Economic Protectionism Association], how can accept Johnny when he represented foreign companies as a lawyer?”
And so Enrile was not given an appointment outright, prompting Salas to tell him, “Johnny don’t be so disappointed, I talked to the President and we decided to name you Presidential Legal Counsel at P1 a year.”
An eyewitness to the conversation recalled, “Johnny practically burst into tears, saying, ‘ano ako bata, pai-iyakin tapos bibigyan ng laruan [am I a child who is made to cry, and then offered a toy]?’”
And so Ponce-Enrile was left “jobless” for the first few months of the Marcos administration.
He was eventually appointed Insurance Commissioner, and promptly wrote the Insurance Code that is still being implemented.
From IC, Ponce-Enrile was appointed to the Bureau of Customs, where his policies resulted in a drastic increase in revenue, then Finance Secretary and Justice Secretary before being appointed Defense Secretary.
He lost his Senate bid in the elections of 1971 and was later reappointed Defense Secretary.
Upon the declaration of martial law in September 1972, he was the secretary of national defense and martial law administrator, in effect the second most powerful man in the country, next only to Marcos.
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“It’s drastic. It might send the wrong signal,” Limcaoco warned.
If the BSP cuts “significantly faster” than the United States Federal Reserve, then that could further weaken the local currency, Limcaoco added.
The peso dropped to an all-time low of P59.17 against the US dollar on Wednesday, losing 18.5 centavos when it opened at P58.95. (See: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2025/11/13/philippine-pesohits-all-time-low-but-still-stable/).
It remained at the P59-level on Thursday, closing at P59 after opening at P59.13, based on the data by the Bankers Association of the Philippines.
“You have to look at what the Fed is doing,” the banker said, adding that any local monetary policy decisions would take into account the magnitude of the Fed’s move in December.
This comes even as the economy grew by a mere 4 percent in the third quarter of this year, the weakest pace since the first quarter of 2021, when it contracted by 3.8 percent. If
He would serve in this position until February of 1986, when he and then Armed Forces Chief Gen. Fidel V. Ramos lent their muscle and leadership to rebel soldiers, in a dramatic breakaway that became the 4-day People Power Revolution, forcing the strongman, his family and cronies into exile in the United States.
Linked to coups
ENRILE , however, did not last long in the cabinet of Corazon Cojuangco Aquino, widow of the martyred senator Benigno Aquino Jr.
Being the de facto “godfather” of the officers under the Reform the Armed Forces Movement (RAM) led by then colonel Gregorio Honasan, Enrile was subsequently linked with the coup attempts blamed on the RAM during the Aquino presidency.
The charges against him did not prosper, though.
Later elected to the Senate, he was elected Senate President and was occupying that position when Chief Justice Corona was impeached for alleged violations of the SALN law, among others.
In that trial from late January to May 2012, Enrile engaged former Supreme Court Justice Serafin Cuevas, Corona’s chief lawyer. Enrile voted with 19 others to convict Corona, with only three senators acquitting him: the late senators Joker Arroyo and Miriam Santiago, and Ferdinand Marcos Jr., now President.
Plunder case for pork barrel
A BLACK mark on Enrile’s public service record was his being charged, along with his then chief of staff Atty. Gigi Reyes, for allowing his pork barrel to be used for sham projects by “pork barrel queen” Janet Napoles.
His defense said Enrile had no knowledge of the transactions and his name was used without his consent.
Recently, he was acquitted of the plunder charge, a development that drew criticism from anti-corruption advocates.
Hours before his death, some historians shared on FB details of how his role as martial law administrator overlapped with his alleged ownership of logging companies that were blamed for human rights abuses in Samar province, including the massacre of over 40 people. The official report on the Samar massacre blamed the NPA rebels for it.
Enrile drew admiration for his brilliance, his ability to craft laws, his expertise in pushing reforms in his many roles in the bureaucracy. But he also drew controversy in many chapters of his long career as public servant.
the pandemic years were to be excluded, this is the slowest pace since 2011.
Limcaoco noted that while people might be “disappointed” with the 4 percent growth, the rest of the world is growing at 2 percent.
“So, the Philippine economy is still growing. It’s not growing as fast as it used to, but it is still growing,” the banker added.
To prop up the economy further, the market is anticipating that the BSP may implement an off-cycle monetary policy easing, particularly a reduction in large banks’ reserve requirement ratio, currently at 5 percent.
The Monetary Board, the BSP’s highest policymaking body, is set to convene on December 11 for its rate-setting meeting.
Limcaoco said it is up to the BSP to intervene, as they are responsible for monetary policy and keeping prices steady.
“If they believe that a weak peso might be inflationary, then they might,” Limcaoco added.
However, the BSP had said that it allows the exchange rate to be determined by market forces.
“When we do participate in the market, it is largely to dampen inflationary swings in the exchange rate over time rather than to prevent day-to-day volatility,” the central bank said.
Trump’s decision to boycott G20 summit is ‘their loss,’ South African president says
By Gerald Imray | The Associated Press
CAPE TOWN, South Africa—US President Donald Trump’s decision that the United States government boycott the Group of 20 summit next weekend in South Africa is “their loss,” South Africa’s leader said Wednesday.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa added that “the United States needs to think again whether boycott politics actually works, because in my experience it doesn’t work.”
Trump announced last week on social media that no US government official would attend the Nov. 22-23 meeting of leaders from 19 of the world’s richest and leading developing economies in Johannesburg, citing his widely rejected claims that members of a white minority group in South Africa are being violently persecuted and having their land taken from them because of their race.
The US president has for months targeted South Africa’s Black-led government for criticism over that and
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warrant, note verbale or communication has been received, transmitted or processed through official channels.
Dela Rosa told the Court that aside from the alleged ICC warrant of arrest, he has received reports that the international tribunal has allegedly issued a diffusion order against him on November 9, 2025.
A diffusion request directs Philippine authorities to locate and arrest the person named in the document with a view to extradition, subject to national legal procedures and treaty obligations.
While he has already sent official communications to the DOJ and the DFA seeking confirmation of the ICC-issued arrest warrant, dela Rosa said the two agencies have yet to respond to his letters.
Despite this, de la Rosa asked the SC to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) or a writ of preliminary injunction or both to stop government officials and law enforcement authorities from facilitating or implementing any warrant, red notice or surrender request, issued by the ICC.
He also pleaded for the Court to stop the government from extending any form of logistical, financial or protective assistance to ICC witnesses through the Witness Protection Program (WPP) or any similar office.
In addition, dela Rosa asked the Court to block the transmittal of any ICC-related communication through diplomatic or law enforcement channels pending final resolution of his manifestation.
In a separate four-page urgent motion, dela Rosa asked the Court to order Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla to immediately submit a copy of the alleged ICC warrant he claims to possess on his mobile phone and direct him to explain how he obtained the alleged document.
a range of other issues, including its decision to accuse US ally Israel of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza in an ongoing and highly contentious case at the United Nations’ top court. “It is unfortunate that the United States decided not to attend the G20,” Ramaphosa told reporters outside the South African Parliament. “The United States by not being at the G20, one must never think that we are not going to go on with the G20. The G20 will go on, all other heads of state will be here. In the end we will take fundamental decisions and their absence is their loss.”
Ramaphosa added that the US is “giving up the very important role that they should be playing as the biggest
It may be recalled that it was Remulla who publicly disclosed in his radio program over dzRH that he has it “on good authority” that the ICC has already issued a warrant of arrest against dela Rosa.
In a separate press briefing held several days after, Remulla maintained the existence of the arrest warrant and that he has a copy of it on his mobile phone.
Remulla’s statements, according to dela Rosa, constitute a confession of possession of evidence which is material to the issues he raised in his very urgent manifestation, which include : (a) whether there is an actual imminent and credible threat of arrest; (b) whether Section 17 of Republic Act 9851 or the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law authorizes arrest or surrender; (c) whether the Philippine remains bound by residual obligations under the Rome Statute; (d) whether the Executive Branch is acting illegally or prematurely; and ( e ) whether the SC must issue provisional remedies.
Dela Rosa insisted that any arrest, transfer or cooperation executed by the Executive branch without the approval of the court would constitute grave abuse of discretion, violation of due process and usurpation of judicial authority.
He cited the new Rules on Extradition Proceedings issued by the Supreme Court which took effect on November 10, 2025 which mandates that the court must first determine the existence of probable cause before any warrant of arrest may be issued for extradition or surrender.
The senator added that the Rules provides that “no surrender or turnover shall take place unless there is final judgment by the court.”
“Certainly, the liberty of a Filipino cannot be curtailed or surrendered to a foreign power without judicial scrutiny, emphasizing that courts, not Executive officials, determine extraditability,” the senator stressed.
economy in the world.”
Trump previously confronted Ramaphosa with his baseless claims that the Afrikaner white minority in South Africa were being killed in widespread attacks when the leaders met at the White House in May. At that meeting, Ramaphosa lobbied for Trump to attend this month’s G20 summit, the first to be held in Africa.
The G20 was formed in 1999 to bring rich and developing countries together to address issues affecting the global economy and international development. The US, China, Russia, India, Japan, France, Germany, the U.K. and the European Union are all members. The US is due to take over the rotating presidency of the G20 from South Africa at the end of the year.
Trump said on Truth Social last week that it was “a total disgrace that the G20 will be held in South Africa” and claimed Afrikaners “are being killed and slaughtered, and their land and farms are being illegally confiscated.”
Trump had already said he would not attend the summit, but Vice President JD Vance was expected to represent the US.
Trump’s claims about anti-white vi -
“The rule of law demands specificity and due process in any measure that affects individual liberty. The act of surrendering a Filipino citizen to a foreign or international tribunal constitutes the gravest form of deprivation of liberty, involving physical transfer outside the jurisdiction of Philippines courts,” the senator pointed out.
Dela Rosa also countered the claim of the DOJ that the government can invoke Section 17 or R.A. 9851 to justify his immediate surrender to the ICC without undergoing extradition proceedings.
The said provision states that the Philippines “may surrender or extradite a
olence and persecution in South Africa have reflected those made previously by conservative media commentators in the US as far back as 2018. Trump and others, including South African-born Elon Musk, have also accused South Africa’s government of being racist against whites because of its affirmative action laws that aim to advance opportunities for the Black majority who were oppressed under the former apartheid system of racial segregation.
Ramaphosa’s government has said the comments are the result of misinformation and a lack of understanding of South Africa.
Relations between the US and its biggest trading partner in Africa are at their lowest since the end of apartheid in 1994, and Washington expelled the South African ambassador to the US in March over comments he made regarding Trump.
The Trump administration has criticized South Africa’s hosting of the G20 from the outset, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio skipping a G20 foreign ministers meeting in South Africa in February while calling the host’s policies “anti-Americanism” and deriding its focus on issues like climate change and global inequality.
person to another court or international tribunal that is conducting the investigation or prosecution of crimes punishable under this Act, pursuant to applicable extradition and treaties.”
He argued that there is no implementing rules and regulations promulgated by the DOJ or any other relevant government agencies to effectively enforce the said provision.
“This provision, however, is not selfexecuting and cannot operate independently of existing extradition laws and treaties, nor can it override the constitutional framework on due process, liberty, and judicial oversight,” he said. Joel R. San Juan
PHL’s GDP dip: Fixing internal issues to restore economic growth
THE recent slowdown in the country’s economic growth has reignited discussions on the foundational aspects of our fiscal health. With the thirdquarter GDP growth plummeting to a mere 4 percent, largely driven by a significant drop in government spending, business leaders are calling for a crucial shift in policy focus. Rafael Alfonso Salvador Garcia Ongpin, Executive Director of the Makati Business Club, stresses that the government should address the issues affecting the domestic economy before actively seeking foreign investments. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Fix local economy before courting foreign investments,” November 12, 2025).
Recent data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) indicates a contraction in gross capital formation (GCF) by 2.8 percent in the third quarter, contrasting starkly with a 12.8 percent growth during the same period last year. Such a downturn not only reflects poorly on government spending but raises urgent questions about its broader implications for economic stability. Ongpin underscores that the slow pace of public spending—particularly in infrastructure—is detrimental to GDP growth and reflects deeper systemic issues.
The ease of doing business—often cited as a major barrier to domestic investment—has become synonymous with bureaucratic red tape and corruption. Ongpin’s frank comments regarding interactions with the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Bureau of Customs shed light on the difficulties businesses encounter when operating in this environment. These issues hinder investment and, by extension, economic growth.
The declining public construction sector can be attributed to the government’s intensified scrutiny of infrastructure projects. While it is essential to safeguard public funds through stringent validation measures as noted by DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, the delay in project execution exacerbates existing economic problems. Numerous infrastructure projects remain at a standstill because of ongoing investigations into corruption scandals, which are hindering growth and eroding investor confidence.
The connection between economic growth and public perception cannot be overstated. Balisacan aptly remarks that disruptions—be they political scandals or bureaucratic inefficiencies—significantly impact GDP by shaping expectations. When confidence in the government, and by extension, the economy, wanes, potential investors hesitate, stifling growth.
To counter this, the government must prioritize repairing public trust. This could be accomplished through transparency initiatives, anti-corruption measures, and a commitment to improving bureaucratic efficiency.
As the Philippine economy grapples with these challenges, it is clear that merely attracting foreign investments will not suffice. The internal economic landscape must be fortified. A focus on domestic growth not only enhances GDP but also provides a robust platform that can attract foreign investment in the future.
Strategically, the government needs to reassess its priorities: investing in infrastructure, improving the ease of doing business, and addressing corruption head-on are essential steps towards ensuring not just recovery, but sustained economic growth. Filipinos deserve a robust economy that not only meets growth targets but also fosters an environment of trust and stability. A renewed commitment to fixing domestic economic issues will lay the groundwork for a resilient and prosperous future for the country.
Atty. Pablo Gancayco elected as new president of Asian Patent Attorneys Association
AKuwentong Peyups
NOTHER Filipino, Atty. Pablo Gancayco, is set to lead the prestigious Asian Patent Attorneys Association (APAA), the second Filipino to hold the highest position.
Gancayco was elected as APAA’s next president during the 21st General Assembly and the 77th/78th Council meeting held from November 6 to 10, 2025 at the KLCC convention center in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The APAA is a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting and enhancing intellectual property (IP) protection in the Asian region.
APAA was established in December 1969, and membership is open to individuals practicing the profession of patent attorney in the Asian region as well as organizations that comprise such individuals and are constituted in the Asian region.
The association now has more than 2,500 members from 21 recognized groups in Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam, as well as from Bhutan, Brunei, Laos and Mongolia.
T. Anthony C. Cabangon Lourdes M.
Some of APAA’s activities include exchanging information and views concerning IP protection.
The term “intellectual property rights” consists of (a) copyright and related rights; (b) trademarks and service marks; (c) geographic indications; (d) industrial designs; (e) patents; (f) layout-designs (topographies) of integrated circuits; and (g) protection of undisclosed information.
IP laws lay down the remedies available to the IP owner in case of a violation of his rights through administrative, civil and criminal sanctions against violators.
The IP laws aim to protect and secure the exclusive rights of scientists, inventors, artists and other gifted citizens to their intellectual property and creations, particularly when beneficial to the people, for such periods as provided in the law. Nobody else can copy or reuse that creation without the owner’s permission.
Atty. Gancayco was Director, Past
Chairman, and Past President of the Intellectual Property Association of the Philippines (IPAP), which was founded on March 31, 1977 with the aim of professionalizing the steadily growing practice of IP law in the Philippines.
IPAP is the sole Philippine national group recognized by the APAA, the Asean Intellectual Property Association, and the Association Internationale pour la Protection dela Propriete Industrielle.
IPAP’s founding member, Atty. Alonzo Ancheta, was the 2006-2009 president of APAA, the first Filipino to hold this position.
The Philippines, through IPAP, hosted the APAA council meetings in 1990 (Manila Hotel), 2000 (Cebu), 2011 (Shangri-La Makati) and 2024 ( SMX Conrad Manila).
Atty. Gancayco is the Senior Partner of Gancayco, Balasbas & Associates Law Offices.
He earned his A.B. Political Science (1978) and Bachelor of Laws (1983) degrees from the University of the Philippines, and later pursued an Intensive Course on Industrial Property in Europe at Université Robert Schuman in Strasbourg, France, in 1998. He is married to Atty. Dot Gancayco, and they have two siblings.
He is a dedicated member of the APAA for over 35 years. He currently serves as its Vice President and Council Member since 2012, and he previously served as Senior Vice President, Executive Committee Member, and Advisory Committee Member.
Output and employment in 3Q 2025
A. Davad Nonilon G. Reyes
D. Edgard A. Cabangon Benjamin V. Ramos Aldwin Maralit Tolosa Rolando M. Manangan BusinessMirror is published daily by the Philippine Business Daily Mirror Publishing, Inc., with offices on the 3rd floor of Dominga
TEAGLE WATCH
HE Philippine Statistics Authority released the national income accounts (NIA) report last week, which showed GDP growth slowing down to 4 percent in the third quarter of 2025. Excluding the peak pandemic period, this is the slowest that quarterly GDP has grown since the fourth quarter of 2011, when it also grew by 4 percent.
This was below most people’s expected growth for the quarter even as many were already expecting the economy to be dragged down by the domestic corruption issues and the uncertainty from the Trump tariff policy.
In the first three quarters of 2025, cumulative GDP grew by 5 percent. This means that for the country to achieve the government’s target of
5.5 percent to 6.5 percent annual GDP growth for the year, fourth quarter GDP must grow from 6.9percent to 10.5 percent. The last time the country attained a fourth quarter growth within that range was in 2022, but at that time the growth benefited from the base effect as GDP precipitously declined in 2020. Not including the immediate post-pandemic period, the third
Household consumption, historically the most reliable driver of Philippine economic growth and which accounts for more than 70 percent of GDP on the expenditure side, only grew 4.1 percent during the quarter. Excluding the pandemic period, this is the first time household consumption has grown below 4.5 percent since the third quarter of 2010.
“It was the APAA which captured my heart. APAA became family. APAA was home. APAA became my core as an IP lawyer. As a demonstration of my passion and my love for the organization, I have never missed a single APAA conference, ever since the year 1990. That’s 35 years of unwavering loyalty to APAA,” Gancayco said during the 78th Council meeting.
Gancayco outlined his program of action, which include: amendments, revisions and legislation of statutes, regulations and basic rules; reform the electoral processes; special focus on the development of membership in the smaller recognized groups; develop a truly effective and efficient mentorship program; enhance the learning benefits in the programs and outreach activities; strengthen the inter-organizational relations of APAA with other IP organizations; ensure effective communication; mandate clear guidelines and transparency for country choices for the annual conferences; and improve the networking opportunities and facilities.
“I will be your outstanding, benevolent and listening president,” Gancayco said. His term will coincide with the celebration of APAA’s 60th Anniversary in 2029.
Mabuhay Team Pilipinas!
Peyups is the moniker of the University of the Philippines. Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the Seafarers’ Division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan Law Offices. For comments, e-mail info@ sapalovelez.com,
where C is household consumption, I is investments, G is government expenditure, X is exports, and M is imports, respectively.] Investments, historically the most volatile component of GDP, declined by 2.8 percent in the quarter. Within investments, the main culprit was fixed investments, which were essentially flat in the third quarter after averaging close to 7 percent growth since 2023. Within fixed investments, it was construction, which dragged growth down as it declined by half a percentage point in the quarter. Household consumption, historically the most reliable driver of Philippine economic growth and which accounts for more than 70 percent of GDP on the expenditure side, only grew 4.1 percent during the quarter. Excluding the pandemic period, this is the first time household consumption has grown below 4.5 percent See “Eagle Watch,” A15
Dr. Geoffrey Ducanes
Dennis Gorecho
Shutdown’s end will kick off long process of rebooting US government
By Gregory Korte & Allyson Versprille
THE longest government shutdown in US history has ended, but it could take days—and in some cases a week or more— before normal operations resume.
Payroll systems must be updated to pay out weeks of back wages. Backlogs of grant disbursements, loan applications and customer calls that went unanswered for 43 days will now need to be cleared. Delayed environmental permits, workplace inspections and contracting activities have stacked up across federal agencies.
The work of re-opening the government couldn’t officially launch until the funding bill has passed both chambers of Congress and had President Donald Trump’s signature late Wednesday. The White House’s budget office directed all federal employees who had been furloughed during the shutdown to return to work on Thursday.
Federal officials caution that some shutdown-related restrictions will linger. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said Wednesday that the administration aims to start lifting flight curbs within a week after the government reopens, a timeframe that comes just ahead of the busy Thanksgiving week travel holiday.
His forecast for a return-to-normality was backed up by Delta Air Lines Inc.’s chief executive officer, Ed Bastian, who told Bloomberg Television Wednesday that Thanksgiving holiday travel should be “great.”
While federal employees will receive back pay, agencies warn it could take time to recompute paychecks. Paychecks will go out as soon as Saturday, with a goal to complete all back-payments by November 19, according to an administration official.
A 2019 law requires agencies to pay workers their full salaries for the shutdown period “at the earliest date possible after the lapse in appropriations ends, regardless of scheduled pay dates.”
After the 2019 shutdown, it took air-traffic controllers about two to two-and-a-half months to be made completely whole, said Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association.
Duffy has pledged to move more quickly this time. He said controllers would get 70 percent of their missed pay within 24 to 48 hours after the government reopens. The rest would come about one week after, he told reporters Tuesday.
Furloughed workers weren’t able to use accrued vacation or sick time during the lapse—but they still earned more of it. The Office of Personnel Management says furlough time counts as “pay status” for all purposes, meaning the government’s long-term liability for unused leave actually grows during a shutdown.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps, will return to normal payment cycles after weeks of uncertainty that forced states to delay and ration benefits. Yet even that won’t happen instantly: States say they need as long as a week to update their beneficiary files and load debit cards. And with
since the third quarter of 2010. Within household expenditure, significant growth declines were observed in transport, spending in restaurants and hotels, and utilities. On the production side, third quarter growth was dragged down by slower growth in the industry and services sectors. Agriculture achieved healthier than usual growth during the period.
The industry sector posted only a
0.7 percent growth in the third quar-
A stranger in the island
IThe work of re-opening the government couldn’t officially launch until the funding bill has passed both chambers of Congress and had President Donald Trump’s signature late Wednesday. The White House’s budget office directed all federal employees who had been furloughed during the shutdown to return to work on Thursday.
only two major card vendors, there could be bottlenecks as every state looks to replenish benefits all at once.
Shutdown hangover
THE length of this year’s shutdown hangover will vary by agency and can be difficult to predict. Every department is required to maintain a shutdown contingency plan detailing how to close—and later restart—operations. But most envision relatively short funding lapses, not a six-week stoppage.
In a mirror image of the shutdown process, returning employees will spend their first hours engaged in internal business tasks: restarting computer systems, clearing out mailrooms and reopening public counters that were idled for more than a month.
The shutdown halted an untold number of unfunded government activities deemed non-essential, from routine data collection to building maintenance.
Economic data releases were canceled or delayed—and, more importantly, no new statistics on prices and jobs were collected, leaving policymakers with a data gap that could distort forecasts for months.
The National Park Service kept many parks open but without daily cleaning or maintenance. Federal rule-making at agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency and Securities and Exchange Commission also largely stopped, delaying regulations and enforcement actions.
Some federal employees also picked up another work task while they were away: Accounting for the costs of the shutdown itself. Those can include interest on missed payments to contractors (or lost discounts for paying promptly), unplanned travel expenses to send staff home at the beginning of the shutdown, and loss of revenue from fees and permits.
There’s also the cost to the economy and US households. So far the toll has been steep: Analysts estimate that every week the shutdown dragged on cost the economy anywhere from $10 billion to $15 billion. While back pay and halted federal spending can be reversed, economists say some costs from this record shutdown will never be recouped. With assistance from Miranda Davis, Jarrell Dillard, Erik Wasson, Skylar Woodhouse and Derek Wallbank/Bloomberg
ter, its slowest growth since 2011, excluding the pandemic period. Within industry, all subsectors apart from mining and quarrying performed poorly. Manufacturing only grew 1.2 percent, electricity, steam, and water only grew 0.6 percent, and construction declined by half a percent. This is the first time construction experienced negative growth since the first quarter of 2021, although it already exhibited significantly lower growth in the second quarter of 2025, which suggests the reasons likely also include concerns about condominium oversupply apart from the cessation of government
ANNOTATIONS
AM looking out of the window of this huge hotel I have been holed up in for some two days now. The rains have not stopped; there was a window of about an hour of sunshine but then it got stormy again.
Travelling to this frontier land— the last as we are told always—one always believes one is treading on a territory that is not ours. Or one that is separate, different from us.
The tendency is to try to define the inhabitants here, the name of the people who properly live on this island. Proprietary citizens, we may call them. But the question is not easy. There is the Palawan; and there is also, to the consternation of the native, the Palawano.
But we listen to songs and the dialects, for somebody mentions the Cuyonon, a regional Bisayan language identified by the Summer Institute of Linguistics, and considered as lingua franca of Palawan. And before you could say Cuyo, there would be protests from the Batak and Tagbanua. For there would be other groups as well, each one claiming identity under the banner of Palawan.
Living on the island, however, brings us to contact with other groups. The Tausugs, for example, have ethnic memories of the Palawan as “Palawano Traan” or those that have been scattered or “people in scattered places.” Ethnography
indicates the origins of these people from those found in the Tabon caves, a cave system located in Lipuun Point, Panitian, Quezon, in Palawan.
Reputedly the most popular cave system in the country, the Tabon Caves have been called “the cradle of civilization,” due to the presence of the number of burial jars and prehistoric remains discovered in the area from the 1960s. The most well-known of the finds in this site was the “Tabon Man.”
Interestingly, the caves are named after the Tabon scrubfowl, a Philippine megapode, a mediumsized bird found also in the Philippines, northern Borneo and Sulawesi. The said bird, which nests on the shore near the sea, used to inhabit the area of Ticao island, which gave rise to the Tabon festival as celebrated on the said place. Whether there is truth to this origin myth or not, Palawan seems to hold
a key to much of the mystery or history of the land.
Now, here I am looking out into the vast sea extending beyond the pools of this resort. I am tempted to look at the map because there is nothing out there except the sea. With the storm not abating, I sense now a country that is finding it difficult to mark its boundary.
The Spratly islands should be out there. Consisting of more than 100 reefs, islets and cays, and covering some 158,000 square miles, this composite should be an amazing resource for a country like ours. But the Spratly Islands have been disputed for a long time.
lands, as a result of these differences and claims, have Chinese, Malaysian, Vietnamese, and Philippine names. Very much like the many inhabitants of Palawan, which are numerous and varied.
For one, the Spratly Islands are named after a British whaling navigator. With stakes in the islands are China, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam, Brunei, and the Philippines. The is-
China to offer rare platinum stockpile data as market tightens
By Yihui Xie, Annie Lee & Jack Ryan
THE Guangzhou Futures Exchange will publish details of platinum and palladium stockpiles when it launches China’s first derivatives market for the precious metals, offering a rare insight into demand.
The exchange, which last week won approval to host China’s first futures market for the metals, will issue a daily update of the warehouse inventories on warrants that underpin physically settled contracts, according to people familiar with the matter, who asked not to be identified because they are not authorized to speak publicly.
While metal bought and sold on the bourse will account for only a portion of China’s total trade in platinum and palladium, the inventories will provide a valuable glimpse into supply and demand trends in one of the world’s biggest markets. Currently, no official data exists on platinum and palladium stockpiles in China, although the Shanghai Gold Exchange offers spot contracts for both metals.
Platinum, also used in catalytic converters to cut vehicle emissions, has risen nearly 80 percent in value this year, outperforming even gold. A years-long supply crunch has been exacerbated by tariff fears that funneled large volumes of the metal to US warehouses, and by Chinese imports that have outpaced estimates
infrastructure projects because of corruption issues.
The services sector grew 5.5. percent in the third quarter, which is the slowest the sector has grown since the third quarter of 2011, excluding the pandemic period. This is also more than one percentage point slower than its average growth since 2022.
Within the services sector, there were significant growth declines observed in transportation and storage, accommodation and food service activities, and information and communication.
The agriculture sector, mean-
of domestic consumption. With China producing little platinum of its own and exerting strict control over exports, every ounce that enters the country sucks some liquidity out of the global market.
The new contracts “will improve transparency in the domestic market,” said Deng Weibin, regional head of Asia Pacific at the World Platinum Investment Council, an industry organization. He estimated that futures trading would go live in a few weeks, though no date has been announced. The Guangzhou Futures Exchange declined to comment.
It’s not just China where platinum stockpiles are a mystery to investors. The London market is also without publicly available inventory data, in part because so much of the material is held in granule or powder form in the private vaults of a few specialist market makers. That’s unlike gold and silver, which are primarily held in bar form in the vaults which underpin the market, and for which monthly inventories are published.
While inventory data are available for facilities linked to the New York Mercantile Exchange, metal
while, achieved above average growth of 2.8 percent in the third quarter. Cumulatively for the first three quarters of 2025, the agriculture sector grew by 4 percent, which is unusually high. For context, the agriculture sector contracted by 1.5 percent in 2024 and has not grown by more 1.2 percent since 2018. This means that, if not for agriculture, we would be lamenting an even bigger slowdown in GDP growth. Will this translate to increased poverty in the country? It should not. In fact, even if the economy grew only by 5 percent this year, that still represents an increase in per person
To add to the splendor of the land, one encounters the so-called “Taaw’t bato,” which is often simplified into ‘taong bato, which literally means “people of the rock,” a reference to those living in the southern interior of Palawan. One can go deeper and look for those who live in the upriver, pointing to those isolated from the rest. This categorization, of course, is common, even among other lowlanders when the direction of the stream divides the residents as to their residence. I could belabor the point. This is a common affliction of one who is a stranger in one’s own island. Or of one who savors the loneliness or the allure of being a stranger in one’s island, where each day—each moment— a way of cooking and taste makes us wonder why we have lost our sense of self. Or, because beauty is such a vanishing tradition or one that is merely passing, and because even our own histories are phantasms we like to chase with modifiers and verbs that never make sense even to the native speaker.
E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com
Platinum, also used in catalytic converters to cut vehicle emissions, has risen nearly 80 percent in value this year, outperforming even gold. A years-long supply crunch has been exacerbated by tariff fears that funneled large volumes of the metal to US warehouses, and by Chinese imports that have outpaced estimates of domestic consumption. With China producing little platinum of its own and exerting strict control over exports, every ounce that enters the country sucks some liquidity out of the global market.
there is accepted only in cast plates or ingots. The new Chinese contracts will also accept metal in powdered or sponge form—making Guangzhou the first exchange to allow delivery of sponge, a typical form for industrial use.
Strong Chinese demand for platinum has put a strain on the London market. In particular, purchases accelerated last month before the Nov. 1 removal of a long-standing tax rebate enjoyed by China Platinum Co., a state-owned trading house. Tim Murray, director of precious metals management at Johnson Matthey Plc., said “a significant amount of
GDP of about 4 percent. But it also depends on how the gains and losses are distributed. The PSA also recently released the Labor Force Survey results for September 2025, which is the last month of the third quarter. According to the results, the unemployment rate was at 3.8 percent for the month, which was virtually the same compared to the previous month and the same month in the previous year. Labor force participation rate, however, was significantly lower compared to September of the previous year, resulting in a slightly higher number of unemployed people.
metal” was shipped into China ahead of that deadline.
The rush to obtain physical metal pushed up prices and lease rates, with sky-high borrowing costs making it challenging to trade. “I’ve been around this for about 36 years, and never seen anything sustained like this in platinum,” Murray said during the London Bullion Market Association’s annual gathering last month in Japan.
Industrial demand for platinum in China is expected to supplement investment buying, further depleting stockpiles. Slower-than-expected adoption of electric vehicles— meaning demand for fuel-powered cars, and the platinum in their catalytic converters, has stayed higher for longer—is contributing to the drawdown.
Given the high cost of borrowing platinum, Murray said, industrial consumers who have been rolling over leases in the metal may eventually decide to purchase their platinum outright. This would lead prices to rise further.
Meanwhile, the launch of the Guangzhou contracts will offer arbitrage opportunities in a market that has already attracted a slew of speculators this year, said Deng from the investment council. “More investors will turn attention to dynamics in China, which in turn increases China’s influence on international prices,” he said. Bloomberg
But underemployment, historically a stronger correlate of poverty than unemployment, was also lower in September 2025 compared to September 2024, and the average number of hours worked slightly higher. So, there is no evidence yet from the LFS that the slowdown has disproportionately affected those more likely to fall into poverty. Hopefully, the slowdown is a blip, and the economy will return to its previous growth path moving forward.
Tito Genova Valiente
Friday, November 14, 2025
THAI AGRI GIANT CPF BARES $1-B PROJECT FOR PHL HOGS
By Ada Pelonia
CHAROEN Pokphand
Foods Philippines Corporation (CPF) announced a five-year $1-billion project to boost the country’s hog output.
In a statement, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said the CPF’s expansion plan would help restore the country’s swine population to pre-African swine fever (ASF) levels by 2028 CPF aims to raise its hog production capacity from the current 1.3 million heads to 7 million by 2030. Of this, 4.8 million would be in Luzon, 1 million in the Visayas, and 1.2 million in Mindanao.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said CPF’s expansion aligns with the government’s vision of a zero-kilometer food system.
“This means producing food where it’s needed and advancing agricultural investment to create jobs and ensure food security,” Tiu Laurel said. He also encouraged CPF to consider locating some facilities near major tourist hubs to help ease food costs.
Under the plan, the firm is evaluating nine locations nationwide for agro-industrial complexes, each covering roughly 20 hectares.
The DA said every site will feature feed production and hog processing facilities, with each complex worth about $125 million to build.
Furthermore, feed plants are expected to produce around 10,000 metric tons (MT) per month, which would require corn output from 5,000 hectares.
Since the detection of ASF in 2019, the country’s swine population has plunged to roughly 8 million heads from 13 million.
With this, the DA has launched a series of repopulation measures, including the vaccination against ASF and distribution of breeders to reach the prepandemic hog population within the next three years.
Meanwhile, President Marcos recently signed the Animal Industry Development and Competitiveness Act, which allocates roughly P20 billion annually over the next decade to develop the livestock, poultry, and dairy sectors. Nearly one-fifth of the funding was earmarked for hog repopulation.
The DA noted that CPF’s plan signals a major push for the local pork industry, focusing on enhanced production capacity, farm modernization, and greater support for local pig farmers. Agriculture officials stressed that the investment would help stabilize supply and increase resilience against future disease outbreaks.
“The expansion represents a strategic partnership with the private sector to achieve longterm recovery and growth in the hog industry—a crucial pillar of the nation’s food supply and a key driver of rural employment.”
FRLD launches first call for funding requests at COP30
By Jonathan L. Mayuga
THE Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) has launched its first call for funding requests for the Barbados Implementation Modalities (BIM) during the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30). This marks the Fund’s transition to active operationalization, enabling it to initiate its first interventions to respond to climate-induced loss and damage for developing countries.
The BIM has been allocated an initial USD 250 million to support response efforts in developing countries facing economic and non-economic loss and damage from slowonset and extreme climate-induced events.
The call for funding requests underscores the Fund’s commitment to delivering timely and targeted support to the people on the front lines of the climate crisis. In line with the Fund’s principles, the BIM will support bottom-up, country-led, and country-owned approaches to responding to loss and damage.
“This call for funding requests sends an important signal to developing countries that support is available,” Richard Sherman, Co-Chair of the FRLD, said in a statement. “I extend my deepest gratitude to all stakeholders who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to reach this point. Your experiences and needs have been central to designing the BIM for which we are now launching a call for funding requests.”
COP30—widely acknowledged as the “implementation and action COP”—provided a strategic platform to launch this call, drawing broad engagement from partners, national focal points, implementing partners, and other actors in the climate landscape. The event facilitated critical dialogue on climate-induced loss and damage and offered clarity on the funding cycle, funding criteria, and access modalities for the BIM.
The launch of the call establishes the process through which countries can access funding from the FRLD. In addition to offering a platform for
BusinessMirror
‘Red tape slows tech growth, negates high digital demand’
By John Eiron R. Francisco
THEPhilippines has a strong appetite for data and was an early pioneer in using SMS for services like payments, but turning technological innovation into broader digital economy growth remains a challenge, according to the global mobile industry group.
Julian Gorman, head of Asia Pacific at GSMA, said during the Digital Nation Summit in Makati City on Thursday that the Philippines demonstrates robust demand for digital services and now ranks seventh in the GSMA’s Asia Pacific Digital Nation Index, placing it firmly among the region’s leading digital nations. Yet, he noted, complex regulations and slow site approvals have hindered the full application
of technology in practical services.
“The country is currently going through, I think a big shift, which deserves some applause,” Gorman added, citing recent government allocations of over P72 billion for national broadband, cloud, and other digital transformation projects. The domestic digital economy contributed P2.25 trillion, or roughly 8.5 percent of GDP, with e-commerce alone surpassing P500 billion in
2023.
To illustrate how regulatory reforms can drive digital growth, Gorman cited India and Vietnam as regional examples. India, previously hindered by spectrum crises, decades-old legal disputes, and failed auctions, streamlined site approvals and reduced spectrum costs, enabling the country to build the world’s fastest nationwide standalone 5G network.
“In the last 10 or 15 years, India has gone from being a technology importer to be a technology exporter,” Gorman said, adding that India serves as a relevant benchmark for 5G deployment in the Philippines. He noted that, as a low- to middleincome country facing challenges similar to those in the Philippines, such as underserved or remote areas, India has managed to build a successful 5G ecosystem, albeit differently from larger markets like China or the United States. Vietnam, meanwhile, cut spectrum reserve prices by 90 percent
and offered government rebates tied to operator investments, signaling a clear commitment to using mobile technology as a driver of economic transformation, Gorman said.
“I think a bold policy, a regulatory step by providing a rebate, but actually directly linking it to the revenue from the auction was a very clear message that the government considered they would also invest in making sure that mobile technology was a strong foundation for the transformation of the economy,” he emphasized.
Despite regulatory hurdles, Gorman said the Philippines has advantages, including a young, digitally literate population. Yet, he noted a significant usage gap: many Filipinos covered by mobile broadband are not fully utilizing it due to device costs, lack of relevant services, limited digital skills, and issues of digital trust.
“In the physical world, trust is
See “Red tape,” A2
stakeholders to engage in support of the FRLD, the launch event raised awareness about the BIM and clarified the call for funding requests’ procedures, timelines and criteria. The call will be opened for a period of 6 months from 15 December 2025.
“The Board has allocated USD 250 million in initial grants for the BIM. Developing countries are invited to submit funding requests aligned with their priorities,” said JeanChristophe Donnellier, Co-Chair of the Fund. “This first call aims to test, learn, and shape the Fund’s long-term model. Innovation is key: for example, the FRLD will leverage entities already accredited by other funds, avoiding duplicate processes and accelerating FRLD operational readiness while promoting coordination and coherence.”
This call signals the Fund’s readiness to deliver on its mandate. The FRLD has evolved from the historic agreement to establish a fund during COP27 in 2023, through its establishment at COP28 in 2024, to the launch of its first call for funding requests. This first concrete opportunity to provide support to vulnerable countries and communities is a long-anticipated step. It is also a testament to the global solidarity that has led to this moment. The BIM, as the Fund’s pilot phase, will also generate lessons to guide longterm operations. In October 2025, at its seventh meeting, the Board decided to launch the call for funding requests for the BIM. Key components for operationalizing the BIM were also approved, including the funding cycle, eligible activities for funding, initial funding criteria and access modalities.
“We are sincerely grateful to the many stakeholders that have supported the Fund and helped us get to this point,” said Ibrahima Cheikh Diong, FRLD Executive Director. “This call, while significant, reminds us of the need for significantly more resources to meet the vast scale of need on the ground. As we operationalize the BIM, we will also be working to mobilize additional resources to support our long-term ambitions.”
Swedish firms in PHL cite priority reforms
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
SWEDISH companies operating in the Philippines are scaling up investments and projecting industry growth, but continue to call for urgent reforms in customs procedures, infrastructure development, and regulatory efficiency.
This is based on the first-ever Business Climate Survey for Swedish Companies in the Philippines, published by Team Sweden, composed of the Embassy of Sweden and Business Sweden in Manila.
The survey gathered insights from 31 Swedish firms across key sectors such as energy, industrial equipment, and professional services.
Swedish Ambassador to Manila
Anna Ferry presented the findings during the Nordic Ambassadors’ Forum in Makati City on Thursday.
According to the report, 55 percent of Swedish companies plan to increase investments in the next 12 months, while 58 percent expect in-
dustry turnover to grow, signaling strong confidence in the Philippine market’s economic momentum.
“Companies expressed that they are hopeful but continue to deal with regulatory complexities and infrastructure issues that hinder smooth operations,” the report noted.
Larger firms—especially those in industrial and professional services—expressed greater confidence, while small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and newer market entrants reported lower profitability and more difficulty navigating the local business environment.
Among the top concerns cited were bureaucratic inefficiencies, complex customs procedures, and inconsistent tax systems.
The report said that almost 6 out of 10 Swedish companies said that customs procedures remain the largest obstacle in doing business in the Philippines.
Their main headaches are lengthy processing times, complex docu-
mentation, and varying enforcement, which can delay shipments and increase costs.
Another concern are Custom duties—as additional charges add financial pressure on businesses, especially for those importing goods and raw materials.
“These challenges are particularly pronounced for smaller businesses and newer market entrants,” the survey added, calling for “continued reforms to improve the consistency and efficiency of government processes, especially in digitalization and tax systems.”
Despite these hurdles, Swedish firms continue to expand their footprint.
Seventeen companies reported increased investments in 2024, ranging from new regional offices and warehouses to expanded manpower—particularly in growth corridors outside Metro Manila.
The survey also highlighted the strategic value of Brand Sweden,
with 87 percent of respondents saying it supports their business, and nearly one-third citing it as a strong contributor.
Several top Swedish companies have long operated in the Philippines, including Volvo, Ericsson, Electrolux, H&M, IKEA, ABB, Sandvik, Atlas Copco, SKF, and Scania. These firms span industries from automotive and telecommunications to mining, retail, and industrial automation—aligning with Philippine priorities in infrastructure, digitalization, and consumer growth.
Governance, labor conditions ON governance, exposure to corruption remains a concern, particularly in dealings with public bodies.
“Roughly one-third of companies—particularly those in the professional services and consumer sectors—have encountered issues such as bribery or fraud when engaging
See “Swedish,” A2
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
MVP in talks with Villar for acquisition of PrimeWater
By VG Cabuag @villygc
THE group of businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan (MVP) is in talks with the Villar Group for the possible acquisition of the assets of PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp.
Pangilinan said his group has signed a non-disclosure agreement with the Villar Group, who has also opened its data, some two to three weeks ago for a due diligence on its operations.
“So, we’re getting initial feedback from the preliminary analysis of the numbers as they’re provided to us. That’s all. I don’t think we finished this first stage analysis
of PrimeWater. Probably takes another week to be able to frame an offer to them,” Pangilinan said in a media briefing.
“So, nothing is finalized. We are at the beginning of the process. And it’s difficult to predict where we will eventually land. I think they have about 70 to 80 properties all over the Philippines.”
He said there some of the prop -
erties are big, but there are also small ones.
“And so we don’t know the approach yet, whether we will bid for only certain of the properties that are large enough to give us profitability or whether they will insist that we acquire the entire thing.”
Pangilingan said the discussions also included some PrimeWater debts.
“So, no valuations indicated by us to them. So, we’re looking. And I think if it works for us, if it’s feasible, commercially feasible for the group, then obviously we will take a look at it more seriously.”
Pangilinan said the deal may involve Metro Pacific Water but there may be some assets that west zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services Inc. may be interested in.
“I think certain assets of Prime-
Water, the bigger ones principally, should be attractive for Maynilad to acquire. And we would encourage them. Obviously, the views of DMCI (Holdings Inc. of the Consunji Group), our partners in Marubeni, would have to be taken into account.”
Pangilinan said historically its partners in the utility firm have been quite cool to the idea of growth outside the West Zone, but he said they have seen a softening of that stance because of the recent listing on the Philippine Stock Exchange.
Ramoncito S. Fernandez, Maynilad’s president and CEO, said PrimeWater is not in talks with them but with its shareholder, Metro Pacific Investment Corp. Maynilad, he said, may enter the fray if it makes “commercial sense,” not only to MPIC, but also to its other shareholders.
Vivant posts strong results in Jan-Sept
VBy Lenie Lectura @llectura
IVANT Corp. delivered a strong performance from January to September this year, ending the period with a 24-percent hike in core net income to P2 billion driven by its energy business.
Vivant has major investments in the water and energy industries. It reported Thursday that the power generation business ended the period with a net income contribution of to P1.7 billion which represents 63 percent of total net income from the strategic business units, as four of Vivant’s conventional plants saw reserve market (RM) nominations increase by 192 percent. Its unit 1590 Energy Corp. (1590 EC) has the highest volume of RM nominations at 865 gigawatt hours (GWh).
Vivant Energy Corp. (Vivant Energy) increased its total attributable power generation capacity to 471 megawatts (MW) with the acquisition of the 40-percent
SMIC still optimistic on Q4 prospects—exec
SM Investments Corp. (SMIC), the holding firm of the Sy family, on Wednesday said it recorded a net income of P64.4 billion in January to September, up 6 percent from P60.9 billion last year.
Consolidated revenues increased 4 percent to P482.3 billion, compared with P462.5 billion a year ago.
“The third quarter performance remained within our expectations. Despite the challenges brought about by adverse weather and flooding, we continued to see resilient financial performance across our businesses,” Frederic C. DyBuncio, the company’s president and CEO, said.
“While external factors may temper overall economic growth, we maintain an optimistic outlook as we move into the fourth quarter.”
Banking accounted for the largest share of SMIC’s net income at 50 percent followed by property at 28 percent, retail at 15 percent and portfolio investments at 7 percent. VG Cabuag
stake in Samal Solar Renewable Energy Corp. (SSREC), developer and operator of a planned 53.14 -MW solar plant in the province of Bataan. Net income contribution from 35 percent-owned distribution utility (DU) Visayan Electric Co. (VECO) totaled P879 million, higher than P871 million earnings in 2024 as sales volumes across customer classes grew year-on-year (YOY). “Vivant continued to show strong results despite the slower than expected GDP growth in the first nine months of the year. I am proud of the resilience of our teams as we navigated market challenges and saw positive results from our power generation, energy distribution, and wastewater treatment operations.” said Arlo G. Sarmiento, Vivant CEO. Vivant’s portfolio of conventional plants delivered a total of 3,211 GWh. Of which, on-grid volumes totaled 3,015 GWh while off-grid assets sold 196 GWh of energy to its customers. Overall energy volumes sold
saw a 15-percent decline during the period. Nonetheless, the net income contribution of the power generation business grew by 12 percent to P1.7 million driven by trading gains from the participation of certain plants in the RM and Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), as well as revenue from Ancillary Services Procurement Agreement (ASPA) contracts. Meanwhile, North Bukidnon Power Corp. (NBPC) and Cebu Energy Development Corp. (CEDC) recorded the highest YOY increase in spot market energy sales at 102 percent and 36 percent, respectively. Total volume sold through ASPA contracts was also 9 percent higher due to the energy dispatched by Therma Visayas, Inc. (TVI) and Meridian Power Inc. (MPI).
Net income contribution from VECO was at P879 million slightly up from P871 million the prior year, driven by the three-percent growth in DU sales volumes. Residential customers recorded the highest
increase in volume sold at four percent, followed by industrial at three percent and commercial at two percent.
Maynilad 9-mo profit rises on higher fees
LISTED West Zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services Inc. reported on Thursday that its income in January to September rose 18 percent to P11.36 billion from the previous year’s P9.63 billion, driven by higher revenues and a modest 2-percent increase in cash operating expenses.
Revenues grew 9 percent to P27.65 billion from the previous year’s P25.24 billion, after an 8-percent tariff hike implemented in January this year and the adjustment in the environmental charge to 25 percent from 20 percent.
The company said it saw a 1-percent decline in billed volume, following government restrictions on Philippine offshore gaming operators and the transfer or closure of several large commercial accounts in the West Zone.
For the third quarter alone, the company’s income went up by 15 percent to P3.91 billion from last year’s P3.39 billion, while revenues rose 8 percent to P9.3 billion from the P8.57 billion recorded a year ago.
As of end-September 2025, Maynilad’s non-revenue water level improved to 32.8 percent, from 39.3 percent in the same period last year. This reduction—equivalent to about 231 million liters of water per day recovered—is comparable to the pro -
duction capacity of a large water treatment plant. The improvement was driven by intensified pipe replacement and leak-repair activities and the wider use of satellite and AIbased leak-detection technologies. The company also continued to invest heavily in system upgrades and new water-treatment facilities under its 2023–2025 capital expenditure (capex) program.
Ramoncito S. Fernandez, the company’s president and CEO, said the company is expected to spend some P30 billion in capex next year. The company, he said, has been allotting an average of P26 billion in spending program per year during the last three years, which were all part of the P163 billion in commitment to the government.
Fernandez said he is confident that the company will surpass its budget in income for the year.
“Our focus is to continue improving our services to our customers within the west concession area,” Fernandez said in a media briefing.
“We will offer wastewater and sanitation services to our existing customers in the zone, because our service obligation is only to residential. The commercial-industrial are doing their wastewater by themselves so we can offer our services to help them in their wastewater and sanitation management.” VG Cabuag
By VG Cabuag @villygc
CONGLOMERATE Ayala Corp. on Thursday said its income for the nine months of the year jumped 36 percent to P46.26 billion from the previous year’s P33.94 billion, on the back of the good performance of its banking and property development units.
The said figure, however, included one-off items such as its gains from the revaluation of AC Ventures, which holds Ayala’s direct stake in Mynt, the operator of GCash.
A re-measurement gain was booked because of Mitsubishi’s subscription to a 50-percent stake in AC Ventures, effectively acquiring an indirect ownership in Mynt, or Globe Fintech Innovations Inc. Mynt is a partnership between Globe Telecom Inc., Ayala and Ant Group Co. Ltd.
Core net income, which excludes the said one-off items, was flat at P36.6 billion.
Revenues for the nine-month period rose 2 percent to P274.7 billion from the previous year’s P268.45 billion.
Core net income for the third quarter alone, meanwhile, sequentially improved 4 percent to P12.8 billion, the company said.
Globe’s core net income for the period, which excludes non-recurring items such as accounting gains from the Mynt transaction, towers sale and leaseback, and foreign exchange and mark-to-market adjustments, fell 12 percent to P15.5 billion due to lower gross service revenues and higher depreciation and interest expenses. ACEN Corp.’s core net income declined by 18 percent to P4.3 billion due to lower revenues as a result of damage to wind farms in Ilocos Norte, softer local spot market prices, reduced solar irradiance in the Philippines and Australia, and the onset of depreciation expenses from plants operationalized in 2024.
Ayala Healthcare Holdings Inc. narrowed its net loss year-on-year to P9 million from the previous year’s P417 million on the back of a strong performance from its provider business, a P103-million gain on the sale of KMD shares and the absence of KMD losses.
Revenues from the provider network’s hospitals and multi-specialty clinics grew 69 percent, underpinned by a higher patient census, increased average spend per patient and the expansion of corporate clinic accounts. This growth was further supported by contributions from FEUNRMF and the Cancer Hospital.
Banking&Finance
LGUs given standardized valuation system by DOF
HE Department of Finance
T(DOF) announced it seeks to enhance the fiscal and financial management operations of local government units (LGUs) through the integrated electronic official receipt (IEOR) project of the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF).
“When they pay taxes, all they ask for is a simple confirmation that it is correct, legitimate, and easily traceable,” Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto purportedly said in his keynote address during BLGF’s 38th Anniversary on November 5.
A statement issued by the DOF last on Thursday read that Recto also announced the publication of three new valuation and assessment manuals. These manuals are expected to help LGUs exercise fiscal fairness under the Local Governance Reform Project (LGRP) of the BLGF, read the statement.
For one, the “Local Assessment Manual” will serve as a comprehensive reference to reinforce standardization, transparency and efficiency in the administration of real property taxation. Complementing the LAM is the “Mass Appraisal Guidebook,” which outlines the mass appraisal processes and procedures that may be applied to all property types. Finally, the “Philippine Valuation Standards” manual provides guidance for valuation professionals, government agencies and stakehold-
ers to ensure property valuations are accurate, transparent, and compliant across different sectors, according to the DOF.
“Because when property valuation is fair, tax collection becomes credible. And when taxation is credible, the whole system gains legitimacy,” Recto noted.
The Finance chief believes the strong finance performance of LGUs leads to public services flowing more efficiently, businesses growing, more jobs are created and every Filipino’s income increases.
“In the end, what we are building here is not just a better way to collect taxes and manage funds. It is a stronger connection between the government and the governed,” Recto added.
Data from the DOF showed Quezon City led the top-performing cities in terms of highest local source revenues, collecting P28.86 billion, followed by Makati City with P18.90 billion, while Taguig and Pasig recorded P16.15 billion and P14.64 billion, respectively.
Among provinces, Bulacan topped the list with P3.39 billion, closely followed by Cebu with P3.01 billion), Rizal (P2.83 billion) and Pampanga (P2.71 billion).
For municipalities, Cainta, Rizal led with P1.26 billion; trailed by Mariveles (P1.17 billion) and Limay (P992.75 million) in Bataan. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
Keep the momentum going
IFIRST heard the phrase “keep the momentum going” decades back from my association colleagues when we were implementing a grant project on sustainable finance for bankers. It took quite a while to convince bankers to embed sustainability in their lending operations and when we succeeded, we kept the momentum going. For associations, “momentum” is more than just forward motion, it is the energy that sustains their purpose, relevance, and value to members. Associations are not static entities: they are dynamic, purposedriven communities that exist to serve professionals, industries and society at large. The challenge is not merely to initiate programs, launch projects, or set strategic directions, but to maintain continuity and progress so that members remain engaged, stakeholders remain supportive, and impact remains tangible.
Momentum in associations is built through consistent action and reinforced by trust. When members see that their association delivers value continuously, whether through advocacy, education, networking, or thought leadership, they are more likely to stay engaged and contribute. The reverse is also true: stalled initiatives or lack of follow-through can erode confidence and weaken member loyalty.
Building blocks of momentum
1. Strategic continuity. Associations must align short-term projects with long-term goals. For example, the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) consistently anchors its initiatives to the broader vision of advancing association leadership. Its recurring events, research outputs, and professional development programs all tie back to this strategic mission, allowing it to build on past successes rather than start from scratch each year.
2. Member-centric programming. Momentum is sustained when members experience ongoing value. The Project Management Institute (PMI), for instance, continuously updates its certification programs and expands digital resources to meet the evolving needs of professionals worldwide. By anticipating change in industries, PMI not only retains relevance but also reinforces
BOC seeks revised revenue goal after collections plunge
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) will ask economic managers for a downward revision of its 2025 revenue target, as sluggish import volumes and the extended rice import ban dragged its collections.
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno told the BusinessMirror that BOC officials plan to discuss with the Cabinet-level Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) the adjustment in its collection target this year.
“Yes, we will try to discuss with [the] DBCC. We’ll also more actively participate w the forecasting for 2026,” Nepomuceno replied when asked if they will request the DBCC to lower its target.
The BOC is tasked to collect this year about P958.714 billion, a 4.13-percent increase from last year’s goal of P939.694 billion.
its role as a trusted partner in career growth.
3. Collaboration and alliances. Many associations sustain energy by forging partnerships. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) regularly collaborates with governments, private sector leaders, and NGOs to promote sustainable tourism. These alliances keep the organization in constant motion, amplifying its advocacy and enabling collective impact.
4. Innovation and agility. Momentum thrives when associations embrace innovation. The Singapore International Chamber of Commerce (SICC), for example, has continuously adapted by focusing on new areas such as sustainability and digital transformation. This agility ensures the chamber remains relevant in a rapidly changing global business environment.
Practical steps for associations
n Institutionalize progress: Document processes, create knowledge repositories, and ensure continuity across leadership terms.
n Celebrate wins, big or small: Recognition reinforces forward motion and motivates members to stay engaged.
n Engage members year-round: Move beyond annual events to provide continuous touchpoints such as webinars, newsletters, community platforms, or mentoring programs.
n Measure and communicate impact: Regularly report on outcomes so that members see tangible results of their support.
Associations are custodians of collective energy and ideas. Their true power lies not just in initiating change but in sustaining it. By keeping momentum going, associations not only secure their own future but also amplify the professional, industry, and societal impact they were created to achieve.
Octavio Peralta is founder and volunteer CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives, the “association of associations.” The views he expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror. E-mail: bobby@pcaae.org.
Preliminary data from the BOC showed that it has generated P784.993 billion as of end-September this year, marginally higher by 0.95 percent from P777.561 billion in the same period last year.
But there were months when the BOC posted year-on-year declines or failed it meet its goal for the month.
In October alone, the BOC posted a 4.1 percent drop in its collections to P83.322 billion from P86.885 billion a year ago, caused by lower import volumes and declining global oil prices. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/11/10/boc-col-
lections-decline-on-low-importvolumes/).
Nepomuceno said the rice import ban also contributed to the decline, with rice tariffs typically generating P3 billion to P4 billion for the government every month.
“But, of course, we support this ban because of the intention of [the] President [Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.] to protect our local farmers,” he added.
Data from the BOC-Revenue Collection Monitoring Group also showed that rice tariff collections fell to P13.373 trillion from January to September this year, down by 51.73 percent from the P27.705 billion it raised in the same period of last year.
Meanwhile, rice import volume during the nine-month period grew by 4.13 percent to 3.425 million metric tons from 3.289 million metric tons recorded from January to September 2024, based on BOC data.
This is the final count of rice tariff collections of the BOC since the rice importation ban, which began on September 15, will be extended until the end of the year and adding to revenue pressures.
Note that before the import ban, the tariff rate on rice was reduced to 15 percent from 35 percent last June 20, 2024, under Executive Order 62. This has already impacted the BOC’s collections since last year, as the lowered rice tariffs, as well as the expanded zero-import duties on battery electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in HEVs, contributed to revenue losses for the government.
From July 2024 to June 2025, revenue losses due to reduced rice tariffs cost the government a total of P29.451 billion, while zero-import duties on electric vehicles resulted in P18.234 billion in foregone revenues. Economists have noted that the BOC is unlikely to hit its full-year target, as higher US tariffs, extended rice import ban and shifts in global trade chains continue to dampen import activity.
Despite these, Nepomuceno remains optimistic that collections will improve in November and December. “We will do our best to hit the targets despite the extended rice importation ban. We will pursue to have a more efficient collection effort,” Nepomuceno added.
Nordic investors suggest reforms at BIR, Customs
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
NORDIC investors are urging the Philippine government to prioritize reforms in the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and Bureau of Customs (BOC) to improve transparency and attract more foreign capital.
At the sidelines of the “Nordic Ambassadors’ Forum” last Thursday, Danish Ambassador Franz Michael Melbin and Nordic Chamber of Commerce President Bo Lundqvist told reporters that while the Philippines holds strong potential, persistent issues in taxation and customs remain major deterrents for investors.
While Melbin and Lundqvist cited the government’s recent moves to investigate corruption in flood control projects, both emphasized that investor confidence hinges on consistent follow-through and structural change.
SUN Life of Canada (Philippines) Inc. topped the list of life insurance companies in the country for the third quarter of the year, maintaining its lead in the industry.
A statement issued by the insurer read that Sun Life has secured the spot it consistently held in recent years as its premium income reached P44.73 billion.
The firm said that its steady growth was due to its clientcentric approach, the commitment of its advisors and the dedication of its employees.
To meet the changing demands of Filipino families in a financial landscape that is becoming more dynamic, Sun Life Philippines said it continues to grow the range of products it offers and improve its services.
According to Sun Life, it remains “committed” to its longterm strategy of sustainable growth and leaving a positive impact on the communities it serves.
The company added that it is dedicated to maintaining its leadership position while continuing to innovate and adapt to the shifting needs of its cli-
“Everybody is waiting to see actual action,” Melbin said. “What is the government going to do to prosecute and process cases against those who misused public funds?”
Lundqvist echoed the sentiment, calling the President’s decision to initiate investigations “a great signal” of accountability.
“Where the buck stops—from the President of the Philippines—that’s a serious matter, and it’s got to be dealt with,” he said.
Key concerns
MELBIN noted that as long as government processes remain paperbased and opaque, they create opportunities for manipulation and favoritism.
“As long as you’re pushing paper around, that opens the opportunity for individuals to mess into the process or insert certain favors,” he said. He advocated for digitization of
ents and the Philippine market.
Data from the Insurance Commission showed Sun Life Philippines booked a net income of P10.679 billion as of the end of December 2024, the highest among 31 life insurance companies.
Its net worth stood at P51.551 billion during the same period, while its paidup capital amounted to P500 million.
Sun Life Philippines’s new business annual premium equivalent (the universally-accepted performance metric for evaluating sales within the life insurance industry in the Philippines) reached P8.956 billion.
“At Sun Life, our commitment goes beyond providing financial solutions,” Sun Life Philippines CEO Benedict C. Sison was quoted as saying in the statement.
back-end systems and centralized tax assessment to reduce discretion and increase transparency.
Customs inefficiencies: Melbin
echoed concerns raised in a US report on unfair trade practices, which flagged customs and taxation as areas where foreign investors are treated unfairly.
He said Nordic firms share these frustrations and are watching closely how the Philippine government responds.
Lundqvist also pointed out that the Philippines remains underrecognized in global business circles.
“The impression is good, but it’s not as known as it should be,” he said, urging the government to improve its international marketing efforts.
Ernesto V. Perez, director general of the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), acknowledged that the BIR and Customs are among the most frequently cited agencies in complaints
briefs
from foreign chambers.
“If you have any issue or concern with any government agency, including the BIR, we can help you,” Perez said. “If we cannot help you at our level, we can raise it to the Office of the President. We have done this in the past.” The ARTA chief claims that 99 percent of complaints brought to the agency have been resolved.
Investment outlook
MEANWHILE, Denmark’s Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) recently committed $3 billion to build its first offshore wind farm in Camarines Sur—one of the largest Nordic investments in the country. Melbin said the success of such projects will serve as a “litmus test” for other investors considering the Philippines.
“Because they are such large investments, how smooth they run will send an important signal,” he said.
➔ Fuse Financing sets grace period
FUSE Financing Inc. announced it is extending a 30-day due date extension for “GLoan” and “GGives” borrowers impacted by Typhoon Tino. This applies to borrowers whose loans are due between November 5 and 7 and residing in the following areas: Guian (Samar); Cebu City; North Cebu; South Cebu; Dinagat Islands; Silago; Southern Leyte; and, Toboso, Negros Occidental. Eligible accounts will automatically receive a one-month due date extension, read a statement by Fuse. For example, a loan originally due on November 5 will now be due on December 5. During this period, the “automatic debit arrangement” feature will be temporarily disabled, allowing customers to prioritize emergency needs and recovery. No additional interest, late fees, or penalties will be charged during the extension period, Fuse promised.
➔ Citi Manila launch AI tools
THE Citibank N.A.-Manila Branch announced it has rolled out generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to employees in the Philippines, “marking a significant stride in enhancing productivity, fostering innovation, and taking the next step towards the digital banking era.” In a statement, the bank said it is “proactively integrating AI as a fundamental component of its strategy to build a winning bank for the digital age. By equipping its workforce with these advanced AI capabilities,” Citi aims to empower employees to make faster, data-driven decisions, automate repetitive tasks, and significantly boost overall productivity and efficiency. This initiative is underpinned by a robust governance framework to ensure appropriate risk management and responsible AI deployment. More than 180,000 colleagues in 83 jurisdictions are using Citi AI to summarize and compare large documents, draft presentations, speaker notes and Q&As and automate repetitive administrative tasks.
“As we celebrate our 130th anniversary, we strive to be the Filipinos’ Partner for Life in their journey towards brighter futures. We will continue to innovate and deliver services that empower them to achieve their goals and dreams,” Sison added. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto ➔ SHFC suspends monthly amortization THE Social Housing Finance Corp. (SHFC), an attached agency of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), announced it has implemented a one-month moratorium on housing amortization payments for member-beneficiaries in communities affected by Typhoon “Tino” and Super Typhoon “Uwan.” The moratorium period for communities affected by “Tino” runs from November 4 to December 3, 2025, covering member-beneficiaries in Regions IV-B (Mimaropa), VI (Western Visayas), VII (Central Visayas), VIII (Eastern Visayas), and XIII (Caraga), read a statement issued by the SHFC last Tuesday. For areas affected by “Uwan,” the moratorium will take effect from November 11 to December 10, 2025, and applies to beneficiaries in the National Capital Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, and Regions I (Ilocos), II (Cagayan Valley), III (Central Luzon), IV-A (Calabarzon), IV-B (Mimaropa), V (Bicol), and VIII (Eastern Visayas). Bless Aubrey Ogerio
Octavio Peralta
A ssociation World
As PHL restos earn Michelin stars, DOT needs its own spark
CONGRATULATIONS to all the chefs, professional cooks and kusineros, as well as the restaurateurs and their dining establishments for being named on the first Michelin Guide for the Philippines.
I attended the awarding ceremony last October 30, and the joy of all these culinary professionals winning a top international accolade was quite infectious. I may not be someone who had to study French culinary techniques or worked in some top-notch, fine-dining restaurant, but as someone who has slaved over a stove or two to feed friends and family, I understand how it feels to receive compliments for a dish or meal everyone has enjoyed.
That these chefs and their kitchen teams had to whip up their dishes consistently over time, making sure their hearts and souls go into every plate served, is an amazing feat and, thus, it does them justice to be named to the Guide.
Of course, to this day, people are still discussing and debating the lists (One/Two Stars, Select/Bib Gourmand) wondering how such and such restaurant made the cut, and why others didn’t. (No, the inspectors didn’t make it to Negros Island, so hipos na kamo, mga palangga. Maybe next year!)
I am particularly happy to see my two favorite establishments—Cirkulo of Chef J Gamboa and sister Malu, and China Blue by Jereme Leung at Conrad Manila—listed in the Select category, definitely a well-deserved recognition. (I am specially fond of the Gamboa siblings because despite all their success, they remain humble and friendly to all. Their immense affection to their restaurant staff is the reason many of the latter have stayed with the
siblings for so long.)
There are a few interesting restaurants I’ve been to on the starred list, but I can’t describe them as favorites because I yet to eat there more than two times in their lifetime. So perhaps, I will get to love them too in due time.
Cheers as well to Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, who worked hard to get the Guide to enter into a partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT). Unfortunately, it is a fact of life that the Guide will not come to the Philippines out of the goodness of its heart to rate our restaurants, like it does in Europe or the United States. The sad reality is, like our neighbors in Southeast Asia, the DOT has had to pony up some millions of dollars to get the Guide to rate Philippine restaurants. (It probably doesn’t help that Michelin Tires doesn’t even sell enough of its products here these days especially with the onslaught of cheaper substititutes from China.)
I remember chatting with Tourism Secretary Mon Jimenez, who was then working to position the Philippines as a center of gastronomy in Southeast Asia. He had just successfully pulled off the first Madrid Fusion Manila, and in our discussion he said that if he wanted to, “I can get [the] Michelin Guide to come here.” But I guess Secretary Mon knew it would not have been sustainable given the the sizeable amount of funds to pay the Guide, which the DOT did not have. So he just stuck with the partnership with Madrid Fusion to hold a Manila edition, which lasted for three years, carrying over to even his successor, Wanda Tulfo-Teo.
And so funds willing, Frasco hopes to continue the partnership with the Guide, hoping its foreign and local inspectors will also fan out to Iloilo, Bacolod and other parts of the Visayas, as well as Davao and its neighbors in Mindanao. As she said in our interview right after the Guide handed out the awards, “Our regional cuisine is so diverse, [these] really deserve to be highlighted.” I agree. For one, a steaming bowl of batchoy at the La Paz Public Market in Iloilo is certainly worth repeated visits.
So will the Michelin Guide Philippines attract enough foreign tourists? That remains to be seen. It will be up to our hardworking tourism attaches abroad and DOT’s own marketing people
(or consultants) to seize the Guide and weave its information into effective promotions for the Philippines.
NOW, it’s bad enough that the Philippines only received 4.77 million foreign visitors from January to October this year, but to have the DOT headlining earthquakes and typhoons on its own Facebook page seems counterproductive to its own efforts to encourage tourists to visit the country.
I doubt that the people who run the DOT’s social media accounts understand why these exist in the first place. Don’t they know that foreigners looking for information on how to travel to the Philippines peruse these accounts?
Good na sana that they read about the Philippines now having Michelin-starred restaurants, but then to see updates of all the natural disasters here, then photos of the Tourism Secretary handing out relief packs...parang mixed messaging, di ba? And yet they wonder why DOT’s partners canceled flights and bookings to Cebu?
I often read the government-run tourism pages of our Southeast Asian neighbors just to check out what’s happening in their neck of the woods. What page visitors will see are waterfalls, river cruises, old-world charm in their architecture, fun frenzied dancing, among other exciting activities tourists are sure to enjoy. Many of these countries are already promoting events happening in 2026.
Unfortunately, since this administration, the DOT social media accounts have become more politicallyoriented than marketing-oriented. I get that Secretary Frasco used to be a mayor, but perhaps all photos and information of her activities relating to non-DOT matters (yes, like handing out relief goods in typhoonaffected areas) should be relegated to her personal page, not the DOT’s.
DOT should be posting about what tourists can love about the Philippines—our colorful fiestas, scuba diving in the fish-fevered deep, relaxing spa massages, ziplining over tree canopies, or descriptions of our flavorful local cuisine. Not crumbling church walls, post-magnitude 6.9 earthquake.
Know your target audience, then share the information they most need.
a risk, gambling or any other indulgent behavior. Temptation is the enemy, but with the right frame of mind and insight, you can turn the tables and use your experience and knowledge to convert opportunities into profits. Recognize when someone is taking advantage of you or using emotional manipulation. ★★★
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You are in a better position than you realize. Review the possibilities, and observe how others react or treat you, and you’ll instinctively know when you are on the right path. You know what’s best for you. Stand tall, use your experience to guide you forward and refuse to let what others do influence your decisions. ★★★
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Chitchat and charm your way forward. Your take on how things can advance will capture attention and encourage feedback that will help you maneuver your way forward. A change at home will improve your lifestyle and give a positive spin to how you look, feel and present yourself to the world. ★★★
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Trust your instincts. It’s your precision and detail that will stand out and give you an advantage in competitive situations. A steady pace and confident attitude are your paths to success. Learn on the go, and absorb what’s going on around you while navigating your way to stardom. Attend social events, and your charisma will invite romance. ★★★★
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Pay attention to what’s changing around you. Focus on sensitive issues, and observe how others react. Learn from what you see and hear without revealing your thoughts or intentions. Not everyone will be truthful or have stellar motives. Your ability to read the room will help you avoid loss and can lead to valuable gains. ★★
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Keep an eye on your expenditures, and avoid joint ventures or shared expenses. Your best course of action is to invest in yourself and your talents and to move forward alone. It’s OK to
BENILDE ANIMATION FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS REAL-WORLD CAREER EXPERIENCES
DESIGNED to inspire aspiring creatives and showcase their artistry in diverse fields, the Benilde Animation Festival (BAF) featured a series of activities such as film screenings, expert talks, a competition, and an exhibit which encouraged learners to pursue their passion and fostered industry connections.
Led by the Animation Program of the De La SalleCollege of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) as the students’ culminating activity, the week-long event spotlighted their own capstone projects. It likewise presented the experiences of professionals in the fields of animation, gaming, direction, and other creative disciplines.
Ten finalist films were screened. Memories in Plastic by Sean Edrice Vallidos touches on a modern-day toy collector in search for his long-lost childhood toy.
Paradise by Rose Cruzat follows a reserved college student who finds solace in a famous movie star.
Kiampong by Elyza Cua revolves around a ChineseFilipino high school fresh graduate surrounded by persons coming from both ethnicities and cultures.
On the other hand, Neil, who is endowed with angel wings, gets overwhelmed by calls for help in the film Are U Busy? by Ryann J Tortor. This prompts him to fly as far as he can, face his own demons, and reassess his life.
Alumana by Anna Katrina Villaruz is a 2D animated short film on a young girl’s career day in a magical world. Starkeeper by Ice Gallardo tackles the protagonist’s dilemma on whether she should follow her parents’ aspirations for her or pursue her own passion as an artist.
L by Kiana Betina de Persia is centered on an art college student with difficulties to seek a muse for her final exhibition piece. The Runaways by Kayla Palacios navigates an enchanting world where mages can only use pure light magic and never wield any of the seven forbidden magic practices.
Fidem by Ric Moldez III shows the protagonist going after a mechanical sect of monks as they wreak havoc on a “heretic” town.
The story of a little mouse exploring her old house, filled with childhood memories with her late grandmother, is portrayed in the film In This Home by Charlize Ong.
In addition to the film showings, a series of career talks and roundtable discussions delved into the present landscape of the creative sector and some practical strategies to navigate its challenges and opportunities. The participants likewise gained insights on the industry and how to break into the scene.
In his speech, Benilde Animation Program Chairperson Patrick Astilla shared a quote from American author Kent Nerburn, whom he encountered in a leadership workshop by Br. Mike Valenzuela FSC: “Work is never just work. No matter how much you might believe that your work is nothing more than what you do to make money, your work makes you who you are because it is where you put your time.”
An art market gathered several merchants and sponsors. The students participated in a gamified activity packed with mini-games, challenges, and rewards.
Outstanding works showcased in this year’s BAF were recognized in the awards ceremony.
NEW YORK—The 2026 Grammy Award nominees are here, and who else but Kendrick Lamar leads this year’s crop with nine nods on the strength of 2024’s GNX?
It’s an exciting lineup, but like every year, there were a few artists who made the coveted list and a few who didn’t. Snubs and surprises are in no short supply in 2026. The 2026 Grammy Awards will air February 1 live on CBS and Paramount+ from the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
HIP-HOP HEAVYWEIGHTS GET RECOGNIZED IN THE TOP PRIZE. It’s Lamar’s world, but he’s sharing it. This year, for the first time, there are three releases nominated in both the rap album and album of the year categories. Those are GNX Clipse, Pusha T & Malice’s Let God Sort Em Out and Tyler, the Creator’s Chromakopia.
In the past, the Grammys have been criticized over a lack of diversity—artists of color and women left out of top prizes; rap and contemporary R&B stars ignored. Is this symbolic of a new shift?
THE BEST NEW ARTIST CATEGORY LEAVES OUT RAP AND COUNTRY. Despite the hip-hop attention in the album of the year category, rap’s missing in the list of best new artist nominees this year. The same is true of country. Don’t get it twisted—Katseye, Olivia Dean, The Marias, Addison Rae,
Netflix’s new ‘Last Samurai Standing’ pays respect to the original
By Yuri Kageyama The Associated Press
TOKYO—Last Samurai Standing, a Netflix series
launching on Thursday, is set in a Japan where the feudal samurai era is about to end.
The hero, Saga Kokushu, played by Junichi Okada, is one of dozens of samurai in a live-or-die survival game to save family, community and honor. Participants receive wooden tags to wear and add another for each rival they kill. The last man standing collects 100 billion yen ($650 million).
Directed by Michihito Fujii, whose credits include The Journalist, about a fearless reporter, and A Family, depicting yakuza gangsters, the series pays homage to modern-day video games as well as the legacy of Japanese filmmakers like Akira Kurosawa and the original The Last Samurai. That 2003 film, directed by Edward Zwick, starred Tom Cruise as the samurai hero. It was a big hit, including in Japan, and it helped Japan’s own stars like Ken Watanabe and Hiroyuki Sanada in their
Hollywood careers.
“The purpose we had in mind was to update the jidaigeki,” said Okada, using the Japanese term for the samurai drama genre.
Okada, who also served as choreographer and producer in Last Samurai Standing, said everybody in Japanese film knew so much about the greats who had preceded them, like Kurosawa. The genre even came with a grandiose “textbook” about the proper portrayal of Japanese culture.
“We took the want-to approach, keeping in mind that, while thoroughly studying jidaigeki, we were going to do what we want to make, and make something that looked absolutely cool,” Okada told The Associated Press.
Okada is a black belt in Brazilian jujitsu. He has starred in various films including The Eternal Zero about World War II Zero pilots, directed by Takashi Yamazaki, of Godzilla Minus One.
Okada previously worked with director Fujii in Hard Days, a 2023 film about a police officer who tries to cover up a hit-and-run. Okada handpicked Fujii for Last Samurai Standing.
“We wanted something more emotional, with more of a story, and more depth in character portrayal, more of a depiction of culture. That’s what I kept in mind,” Okada said.
There’s also plenty of blood and gore, with swords spitting sparks and flying severed heads. Every person, even in crowded battle scenes, is human and not computer-generated.
In one scene where swordsmen’s bodies catch on fire, the actors wore fireproof gear and risked burns, Okada said.
What saves the work from being a numbing series of action scenes is its story line, with the universal theme of being caught in a ruthless world in transition. The women characters, including newcomer Yumia Fujisaki, feel more modern than the stereotypes who tend to populate older samurai works.
The cast also includes Himizu and Parasyte star Shota Sometani, Kazunari Ninomiya, memorable in Clint Eastwood’s Letters from Iwo Jima, and Takayuki Yamada, who has acted in various films and TV shows including The Naked Director on Netflix.
Sparkle GMA Artist Center celebrates 30 years with ‘Sparkle Trenta’
GMA Network’s talent management arm, Sparkle GMA Artist Center, is gearing up for another grand celebration as it marks 30 dazzling years with Sparkle Trenta on November 15 at the MOA Sky Amphitheater in Pasay City. More than just a free concert, Sparkle Trenta aims to connect with and give back to the passionate fans and supporters who have made Sparkle stronger for almost three decades.
Inspired by the Gen Z term “trentahin,” the event’s title reflects the youthful and fun spirit of the celebration–vibing and thriving to sparkle together for 30 more years.
Joining the festivities are some of Sparkle’s brightest and biggest stars,
led by Alden Richards, Barbie Forteza, Michelle Marquez Dee, Julie Anne San Jose, Miguel Tanfelix, Gabbi Garcia, Rayver Cruz, and Stars On The Floor Rodjun Cruz.
Adding to the excitement are the well-loved Sang’gre stars Angel Guardian, Kelvin Miranda, Faith Da Silva and Bianca Umali, along with Sparkle Teens, Sparkle 10, Sparkle Campus Cuties, and Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition’s Sparkle housemates. Also joining the celebration is top comedienne Ai-ai Delas Alas, among many more surprise guests.
Passes for the Sparkle Trenta concert are now available via the SM Malls Online App. Download the app, claim
sombr, Leon Thomas, Alex Warren and Lola Young make a great list—but what about Ella Langley? Megan Moroney?
BILLIE EILISH IS BACK. A favorite of the Recording Academy, Billie Eilish is up for two trophies this year: song and record of the year, both for her track “Wildflower.” That may come as a surprise to some award show devotees: Only recordings commercially released in the US between August 31, 2024 through August 30, 2025 were eligible for nominations. “Wildflower” was released in May 2024, on her last album, the critically acclaimed Hit Me Hard and Soft So, why is Eilish allowed to compete again in 2026?
There’s another rule that states “tracks from an album released during last year’s eligibility period are eligible in the current eligibility period, provided the same tracks were not entered the previous year and the album did not win a Grammy.”
NEW COUNTRY CATEGORIES CONFUSE. There were a few changes to the Grammys this year, one of which was the creation of a best traditional country album category, while the existing best country album category has been renamed best contemporary country album. (Beyoncé won best country album at the 2025 Grammy Awards for Cowboy
Anniversary celebration on November 15 at the MOA Sky Amphitheater. The anniversary spectacle is directed by
Carter.) It was unclear how the two categories would differ from one another—and it is still unclear.
MAKE WAY FOR K-POP. Last year, K-pop was absent from the 2026 Grammys major categories. It seemed odd, to fans of the genre, especially considering the prolific output from BTS members who released solo material: RM’s Right Place, Wrong Person, J-Hope’s Hope on the Street, Vol. 1, and Jimin’s Muse among them. (As a boy band, BTS has received five nominations across its career.) This year, that changes somewhat.
Rosé, perhaps best known as one-fourth of the juggernaut girl group BLACKPINK, is the first K-pop artist to ever receive a nomination in the record of the year field for “APT.,” her megahit with Bruno Mars. Song of the year—which is awarded to a track’s songwriters, which sometimes includes the performer but not always—also features “Golden” from the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack. TIMOTHÉE CHALAMET GETS FIRST GRAMMY NOMINATION. You read that correctly. The actor is up for best compilation soundtrack for visual media for A Complete Unknown for his portrayal of the great Bob Dylan. But competition is stiff: He’ll have to beat out Wicked, KPop
Rico Gutierrez. via @sparklegmaartistcenter on Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok.
Demon Hunters, Sinners and F1 the Album. He’s not the only shocking first-time nominee: Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson and the Dalai Lama are up for audio book, narration and storytelling recording. Steven Spielberg is also nominated in the music film category for Music By John Williams. IS THE GRAMMYS’ FUTURE SPANISH? OR IS IT JUST THE BAD BUNNY EFFECT? Bad Bunny is a top nominee this year, making history with his critically acclaimed album Debí Tirar Más Fotos. It is only the second all-Spanish language album to be nominated in the album of the year category. The first? Well, that was also Bad Bunny: in 2023, for Un Verano Sin Ti Harry Styles’ Harry’s House won that year. It brings up a few questions. Are the Grammys recognizing more Spanish-language music, or is Bad Bunny an exception? Notably absent from the 2026 nominees list is Fuerza Regida’s 111XPANTIA, which this year became the highest charting música Mexicana album. And at one point, it was No. 2 on the Billboard 200 right underneath Bad Bunny, marking the first time two Spanishlanguage albums held both top positions. Instead, Fuerza Regida’s collaborative EP with Grupo Frontera Mala Mía is nominated. AP
KELVIN MIRANDA BARBIE FORTEZA ALDEN RICHARDS
Sun Life Grepa, ASA Philippines partner to empower underserved women through financial protection
Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the country’s major life insurance companies, and ASA Philippines Foundation, Inc. (ASA Philippines), a leading non-profit microfinance organization dedicated to uplifting underserved women and their families, have formally sealed their partnership through a ceremonial signing held at ASA Philippines Central Office last September 10, 2025.
The partnership aims to provide ASA Philippines’ more than two million women members, many of whom are mothers, with access to affordable life and family insurance solutions. Through the new Microinsurance Program that will be launched soon, Sun Life Grepa and ASA Philippines hope to empower women to not only secure their own futures but also
At the signing ceremony were Sun Life Grepa President Richard Lim and Head of Affinity Marketing Jose Enrique Songco Jr. (2nd from right and extreme right), along with ASA Philippines President and CEO Rapa Lopa and Chief Operating Officer and Chief Transformation Officer Imelda Centeno (1st and 2nd from left), who expressed their shared commitment to improving the lives of Filipino families through financial literacy and protection.
ensure financial protection for their loved ones.
“With this collaboration, we are making life insurance more accessible to underserved women and their families. We believe that by protecting the mothers, we are also protecting entire households and communities,” Richard S. Lim, President of Sun Life Grepa.
ASA Philippines representatives likewise underscored the importance of financial empowerment in their
TIMELESS at Okada Manila Sets a New Standard for Milestone Celebrations
THE Forbes 5-star integrated resort Okada Manila successfully staged the inaugural TIMELESS, the resort’s premier showcase for milestone celebrations. Held at the Grand Ballroom last November 7, 2025, the event brought together the country’s leading creatives and event visionaries for an evening that celebrated artistry, culture, and the enduring beauty of life’s most meaningful moments.
mission. “This partnership with Sun Life Grepa enables us to give our Nanays the tools and confidence to build more secure futures for their families,” said Rapa C. Lopa, President and CEO of ASA Philippines.
The partnership is part of Sun Life Grepa’s ongoing mission to provide Filipinos with innovative and inclusive insurance solutions, while supporting organizations that champion community development and financial wellness.
Through TIMELESS, Okada Manila demonstrated how weddings, debuts, tinghuns, and golden celebrations can be transformed into stunning, multisensory experiences, where exceptional design meets world-class hospitality. The evening unfolded through a series of couture runway showcases, interpretive performances, and creative storytelling that captured the artistry and versatility of Okada Manila’s event spaces.
The four-segment fashion showcase highlighted the country’s most esteemed designers and stylists, each interpreting a milestone event through their creative lens. The Tinghun collection by Vee Tan, styled by Michael Ruiz and Tiger Lim, celebrated family heritage and unity through a red-and-gold cultural presentation. For the Golden Anniversary, Ryan Ablaza Uson, with stylists Dave Sandoval and MC Pascual, unveiled pieces that honored enduring love and legacy with refined elegance.
Rian Fernandez’s Debut collection, styled by Teddy Manuel and Blooms by Allen & JP, brought youthful exuberance to the stage in a dreamlike presentation of florals and movement. Closing the show was Banggo Niu’s Wedding collection, styled by Gideon Hermosa and Kathy Sy-King, which redefined modern romance through graceful lines and timeless silhouettes.
Each segment was introduced with symbolic performances— from ribbon dances and cotillions to musical solos and ballet duets—seamlessly blending culture, storytelling, and design. The night culminated in a grand finale walk that united all designers, stylists, and models, joined by Okada Manila executives to honor the creative teams who brought TIMELESS to life.
Throughout the evening, guests were treated to a sensory journey that reflected the property’s signature artistry and hospitality. Curated setups, gourmet presentations, and dynamic lighting transitions transformed the ballroom into four distinct worlds, each capturing the essence of a milestone celebration.
TIMELESS gathered distinguished personalities from the events, fashion, and lifestyle industries, offering them a first-hand experience of Okada Manila’s event excellence. The showcase also served as a platform for collaboration among designers, stylists, and industry partners who share Okada Manila’s passion for elevating the art of celebration.
“TIMELESS shows what Okada Manila is all about, which is creating meaningful experiences that people will always remember,” said Cielo Reboredo, Vice President for Sales and Marketing. “It’s our way of celebrating the stories and milestones that begin right here with us.”
As Okada Manila’s premier showcase for milestone celebrations, TIMELESS will continue as an annual tradition, highlighting the artistry, innovation, and heartfelt hospitality that define the country’s leading integrated resort. For more information about TIMELESS at Okada Manila, visit www.okadamanila.com or follow @OkadaManila on social media.
Since 2016, Okada Manila has built a strong reputation for hosting seamless events of every scale and a diversified portfolio of events venue. Its venues combine flexibility, tailored solutions, and professional support for everything from international conventions to private celebrations. The Grand Ballroom accommodates large gatherings of up to 1,200 pax, while the Golden and Glass Ballrooms are ideal for midsized occasions good for 100 to 300 pax. The Crystal Pavilion, with its striking glass architecture, is ideal for trade shows, exhibitions, and entertainment events. Cove Manila, Southeast Asia’s largest indoor beach club can be booked for major corporate events and conventions that can accommodate up 1,500 guests offers a dynamic setting, and the Chairman’s Lounge provides exclusivity with panoramic views of Manila Bay and The Fountain. The resort also offers versatile meeting rooms and event venues, complete with multimedia technology, curated packages, and award-winning culinary experiences designed to elevate every gathering. All venues are complemented by customizable packages and dedicated services to ensure flawless execution. For inquiries and reservations, contact +632 8888-0777 or email hotelsalesandmktng@okadamanila.com.
Depot sets a new standard for nation-building in PHILCONSTRUCT MANILA 2025. The long-standing retailer for home and building solutions was present at the four-day premier construction trade show happening at SMX Convention Center from November 6 to 9, 2025.
Wilcon exhibited excellence by putting up a design-forward booth consisting of its well-known and trusted homegrown brands such as Pozzi, Grohe, Franke, Hamden, Alphalux, Hills, Rubi, P Tech, Truper, Woodland, Solutherm, New Tile Tech, Bellini, Kaze, Direct Hardware and other brands featuring state-of-the-art products.
Visitors enjoyed an engaging experience at Wilcon’s booth, taking part in fun games, product recommendations, and other activities that showcased the company’s initiatives.
Wilcon took the experience a step further for industry professionals as it brought its exclusive MyWilcon ABCDE+ Loyalty Program registration to the exhibit. Architects, builders, contractors, designers, engineers, and other professionals signed up for free and unlocked lots of privileges made especially for them. More than a loyalty program, MyWilcon ABCDE+ celebrates expertise and dedication offering a more rewarding and elevated journey for those who shape the spaces we live in.
Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, SEVP and COO of Wilcon, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony of Wilcon’s booth. She assured visitors that Wilcon’s participation this year offered a fresh experience, something exciting and worth looking forward to. She asserted, “This is a celebration of renewal and rising from challenges towards brighter horizons.”
This year marks the 36th anniversary of PHILCONSTRUCT maintaining its position as the premier construction and infrastructure trade show in the Philippines and a frontrunner in Southeast Asia. With the participation of over 1,000 prominent industry leaders and suppliers offering bespoke products and services tailor-fitted
in
Now in its 80th year, Philippine Constructors
Inc. (PCA), the event’s organizer, continued to
its
of
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infrastructure but also building lives. Wilcon strived to make its products accessible to the community and have been continuously solidified by its quest to open more stores in the country. Wilcon Depot brings in a wide variety of products from both local and international brands names trusted by professionals and households alike. Among them are Heim, Alphalux, Rubi, Grohe, Kohler, Pozzi, Franke, Hills, and P.Tech. But what truly anchors the store is the experience it offers. Shoppers can explore curated showrooms, consult at the Design Hub, compare styles at the Tile Studio, or find support at the
Okada (5th from left), President and COO Nobuki Sato
from left),
Managing
Mitsukazu Nakata (3rd from right) together with the Events Division executives spearheaded by the Vice President for F&B Andreas Balla (left) and Vice President
The ceremonial ribbon-cutting was led by Wilcon Depot Projects Department executive manager Arnold Ologuin, AVP for sales and operations Harvy Cruz, Francisco Lazaro, Rowell Suarez, SEVP-COO Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, AVP for sales and operations Desiree Cuerdo, Erine Borja, Catherine Guingab and Rubylyn Candelaria.
Editor: Tet Andolong • www.businessmirror.com.ph
2025 Chery International Technology Night:
Story and photo by Randy S. Peregrino
LAST October, the Chery group hosted its 2025 International Technology Night convention in Wuhu, China. Various car brands within the Chery group welcomed global contingents representing respective regional markets. Under the theme “Co-Create, Co-Define,” the convention highlighted the group’s “Enter Super Next” future vision and united global users to explore new possibilities in smart mobility. The parent company also displayed its comprehensive strength in smart mobility, hybrid powertrains, engines, and solid-state battery technology, integrating technology and user experience.
Omoda & Jaecoo Philippines hosted members of the motoring media to represent the country’s contingent at the international convention. Upholding the brand vision of “co-creating a better life
with young people,” Omoda is dedicated to developing specialized crossover vehicles designed for modern, youth-oriented lifestyles. In contrast, Jaecoo, guided by its philosophy of “Inspired by classics, beyond classics,” focuses on creating premium off-road vehicles rooted in classic design with advanced capabilities. Together, these two brands contribute unique value propositions, constructing differentiated competitiveness within the market.
Building the world’s best hybrid system AS a long-term technology runner, Omoda & Jaecoo’s parent company continuously pushes the boundaries of core powertrain technologies: breaking through global battery safety limits, mastering solid-state battery technology, and setting industry benchmarks. The company boldly ventures into innovation “no-man’s lands,” achieves a revolutionary 48% engine thermal efficiency—while mainstream engines typically range from 38% to 45%, each 1% increase faces immense systemic challenges. The R&D team overcomes these technical hurdles with multiple disruptive innovations, including a 26:1 ultrahigh expansion ratio, hyperbolic triple-linkage mechanisms, 35% EGR rate, and thermal insulation
coatings, staying at the forefront of engine technology. This breakthrough not only marks a technical achievement but also reshapes the value of hybrid vehicles: Data indicates that every 1% increase in thermal efficiency reduces overall vehicle fuel consumption by roughly 2.5%. In the future, hybrid vehicles will likely enter the “1-liter fuel consumption era,” approach the energy cost of pure electric vehicles, and deliver long-term economic and practical value to users.
The summit comprehensively presented the core technology highlights of Omoda & Jaecoo hybrid vehicles, demonstrating the brand’s leadership in power and energy efficiency. Outfitted with the SHS Super Hybrid System, the three core components deliver “super performance, super range, ultra-low energy consumption, and super power.” The fifth-generation 1.5-liter TDGI hybrid-dedicated engine uses a Deep Miller cycle, i-HEC intelligent combustion system, and six other advanced technologies, achieving a 44.5% thermal efficiency and fuel consumption as low as 5.99 L/100km or 16.69 km/L, balancing powerful performance with ultimate efficiency.
Meanwhile, the hybrid-dedicated infinitely variable super electric DHT intelligently switches
“Co-Create, Co-Define”
driving modes based on vehicle speed, precisely matching power and fuel requirements under various conditions. The highperformance hybrid battery pack provides comprehensive protection, including heat resistance, impact resistance, waterproofing, and 2-millisecond post-collision power cut protection. It supports a 90 km pure electric range and 3.3 kW external power output, ensuring safety, endurance, and outdoor power applications. During this long-distance test, Omoda & Jaecoo hybrid vehicles handled all road conditions with ease, ensuring stress-free long journeys.
Co-Creation achievements
THE “International Technology Night” did not limit itself to technology showcases; it also brought together global users and partners to witness co-creation achievements. During the event, Vietnamese user and content creator Bach Thanh Trung shared his real-life driving experience in “My Daily Life with the Jaecoo J7 SHS.” He spoke sincerely about how the J7 SHS integrates into daily routines: He switches to quiet electric mode for weekdays and uses hybrid power for weekend adventures. The vehicle also provides convenient mobile power support for camping and outdoor work. His words express JAECOO’s core spirit—versatile,
free, and agile—meeting daily mobility needs while enabling users to explore life’s possibilities. In addition to user experience sharing, the international convention united global media and partners to witness the brand’s technology and user co-creation achievements. At the awards ceremony, organizers presented the “Global Eco Co-Creation Excellence Award” to Kuwaiti KOL Mohammad Alkandari and Turkish senior journalist Hirant Kasapoglu, along with other international partners. This demonstrated the diversity and global influence of the Omoda & Jaecoo ecosystem. Applause and cheers filled the venue, highlighting the brand’s steady progress in promoting user co-creation and smart mobility worldwide. The “International Technology Night” not only showcased Omoda & Jaecoo and its parent company’s comprehensive strength in smart mobility and core powertrain technologies but also reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to “cocreating a better life with users.” Going forward, Omoda & Jaecoo will continue to integrate technology and ecosystem resources with a global vision, enabling more users to experience intelligent, free, and diversified mobility, and inviting them to jointly shape a green, smart, and sustainable future of transportation.
JMS: Another stunning showcase of advances in future mobility
THERE is still a slight hangover. You just can’t get over the Japan Mobility Show (JMS) in Tokyo that fast. Always, it clings to the soul like a beautiful dream.
Actually, the last JMS, formerly the Tokyo Motor Show until it became the Japan Mobility Show beginning in 2023 to emphasize its global shift to include new technologies like AI (Artificial Intelligence), was another stunning showcase of advances in future mobility that put the world’s leading car brands on a pedestal, led no less by Toyota, the hands-down superstar in the just-ended event together with Lexus.
For example, Toyota’s reveal of the Century caught the JMS crowd by surprise, not expecting the sudden re-birth of an icon in vehicle engineering.
“Our chairman (Akio Toyoda of Toyota Motor Corporation)
has always been like that,” said Masando Hashimoto, the president of Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP). “He loves to surprise.”
One exquisite JMS surprise from Toyoda was when he said that the Century, a massivelybuilt standalone luxury sedan that directly challenges the Rolls-Royce and Bentley, is now a completely independent entity from Toyota.
“That makes it four distinct companies for us now,” said Hashimoto. “Toyota, Lexus, Daihatsu and Century.”
For added accent, Century does not also carry the Toyota logo anymore and instead, it has the Phoenix logo.
“Century’s immediate targets are Japan and China,” Hashimoto said. “An equal number of left-hand drive and right-hand drive units for China and Japan, respectively, will hopefully be ready by mid2026.”
Car buffs from the Philippines will have to wait a little longer.
“Advance orders will be entertained depending on demand and market conditions,” said Hashimoto. “Europe and America will have
to wait, too.”
Suspenseful, indeed, as Toyoda-san’s unique character defines his eccentric leadership style.
E-mail from Tokyo
HERE’S an e-mail from JMS organizers, proving once more how they value their visitors who came for the 10-day car show.
“Dear Member of the Press,
“The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. (Chairman: Masanori KATAYAMA) is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of Japan Mobility Show 2025, which took place from October 30 to November 9, 2025 at Tokyo Big Sight in Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo.
“Japan Mobility Show 2025—held under the concept, ‘A unique opportunity to explore the future of mobility’ and intended to embody wide-ranging aspirations for the creation of the future through shared excitement and collaborative thinking— welcomed over one million visitors.
“Notably, a record 522 companies and organizations
participated in the show, with the aim of contributing to the creation of a prospering and vibrant mobility-based society, extending beyond the automotive industry to include IT, telecommunications, and electronics sectors as well as start-up companies, among others.
“We take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude to the show’s visitors, exhibitors and all other parties involved for their support.
“Mobility is more than just a means of transportation. It has moved people emotionally and shaped memories and values. Precisely because we live in uncertain times, we will continue to join hands across diverse industries to deliver hope for a brighter future powered by mobility.
“Some Japan Mobility Show 2025 highlights: n Tokyo Future Tour 2035: Approximately 311,000 visitors n Mobility Culture Program: Approximately 346,000 visitors
n Mirai Mobility Maker app downloads: Cumulative 10,855 users
Social Media Impacts:
n A total of 483,858 posts were generated across social platforms n JAMA’s own posts generated 53 million impressions.”
Indeed, to the dyed-inthe-wool car enthusiast, the biennial show is a must-attend event if only—in the cerebral words of TMP executive vice president Jing Atienza: “For its innovative and futuristic approach to vehicle transformation and radical metamorphosis.”
Here’s to the next JMS in 2027—my 17th straight if ever!
SMC typhoon aid
SAN Miguel Corporation (SMC) has implemented a toll-free access for marked government vehicles mobilized for relief and recovery operations in areas affected by Typhoon Uwan.
SMC Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang said the company’s toll operations teams are coordinating closely with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) to implement the order.
“Our priority is to make sure responders get to affected communities as quickly as possible,” Ang said. “We have always worked with government in times of calamity. It’s part of our responsibility to help and to make sure aid reaches those who need it.”
SMC Infrastructure operates more than 200 kilometers of expressways in Luzon, including the Skyway System, South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), STAR Tollway, Tarlac–Pangasinan–La Union Expressway (TPLEX) and NAIA Expressway. SMC has always been ready to assist during national emergencies, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the company waived over P230 million in toll fees for medical front-liners across all its expressways.
PEE STOP Danielle Ann Pabalan reports that Honda cars damaged by Typhoon Tino across Visayas and Mindanao will be extended assistance by Honda Cars dealerships in said areas. A 30-percent discount on spare parts, among others, is available up to Nov. 18.
THE 2025 Chery International Technology Night held at the Yiju Expo Center in Wuhu, China
THE brand’s ultimate goal
B8 Friday, NovemBer 14, 2025
mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph
Editor: Jun Lomibao
National U hoping to get ‘4-peat’ done against UST in Super League
NATIONAL University (NU) is three set wins away from completing a “four-peat” in the 2025 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Preseason Unity Cup. After drawing first blood in the bestof-three finals series against dangerous and gritty University of Santo Tomas (UST) last week, the Lady Bulldogs go for the jugular on Saturday in Game 2 at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
But shooting for a sweep in the league’s centerpiece tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner and R and B Milk Tea is easier said than done. In fact, the still unbeaten NU barely escaped the claws of the Tigresses in a 15-25, 25-23, 25-17, 13-25, 15-12, nail-biter in the series opener at the same historic venue.
The Lady Bulldogs dug deep inside their bag of championship experience to stay composed after trailing by two points late in the deciding frame before uncorking a 5-0 closing barrage to stun UST for their ninth win in as many games. NU, which also aims for a second straight season sweep following its earlier flawless conquest of the National Invitationals Davao Leg, expects the wounded Tigresses to be more aggressive in the pivotal second meeting. So, keeping their guard up against UST
JMF bags first triple-double: Yes, his first!
By Josef Ramos
JDO is a 14-year
Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) veteran and the most decorated in the 50-year-old league: Nine-time Most Valuable Player, nine-time All-Star, 12-time Best Player of the Conference, 11-time champion, many-time national team member.
The list just goes on and on.
On Wednesday night, five days before his 36th birthday, Fajardo—all 6-foot-11 of him—chalked up his first triple-double in a game.
Yes, his first…seemed unimaginable.
Fajardo scored 12 points, grabbed 12 rebounds and issued 10 assists in San Miguel Beer’s lopsided 11587 victory over Titan Ultra not at the Smart Araneta Coliseum nor the SM Mall of Asia Arena, but a close out-of-town Ynares Center in Montalban, Rizal.
“He noticed maybe that he was just an assist away from a triple-double, that’s why he focused on passing,” Leo Austria, Fajardo’s coach for 10 years at San Miguel Beer, told BusinessMirror on Thursday. “But everybody knows that June Mar is a team player ever since.”
“But that triple-double never comes out our minds, he just likes to play and win games,” Austria added.
Fajardo accomplished the personal feat when he passed off to eight-year player Andreas Cahilig,
who hit a three-pointer at the 4:44 mark of the third period with the Beermen already unreachable, 10959, en route to their fifth straight victory and a 5-2 win-loss record.
“I ’m so happy for him because he’s really a team player,” said Austria, who admitted he’s never aware that despite all those awards, Fajardo never had a triple-double.
“ When you need to score, get a rebound, make an assist and play defense, you can count on him,” he added.
The PBA has yet to dig deep to determine who’s got the most tripledouble but a short message from fivetime MVP Ramon Fernandez said he got 27 in a career that spanned 20 years, while from the active MVP list, Ginebra’s Scottie Thompson has nine so far.
Fajardo’s averaging 17.8 points, 14.8 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.4 blocks in seven games in the all-Filipino— numbers that are taunting in basketball but not reflective of his kindness out of the playing court—he put up for auction his first MVP trophy for the Alagang Kapatid TV5 Foundation the proceeds of which will go to the victims of the recent super typhoon.
“That’s a class act by June Mar, a kindhearted person. We are so happy to know that he made his own initiative,” Austria said. “The team, San Miguel Beer, also gave donations to Cebu and other affected areas.”
Fajardo was born in Compostela in Cebu but lives in Pinamungajan town in the same province.
T he auction is set on Friday on TV5’s “Tulong Mga Kapatid Bayanihan Drive.” Converge and Magnolia, meanwhile, face separate foes to
keep themselves perched in the top six of on Friday at the Big Dome.
T he FiberXers are chasing back-to-back triumphs when they battle the Barangay
Ginebra San Miguel Gin Kinga at 7:30 p.m., while the Hotshots are seeking to rebound from a 92-94 beating from the Beermen when they play the Blackwater (1-5)
Bosing in the first game at 5 p.m.
C oach Delta Pineda said they really need to concentrate on executing their plays consistently against the Gin Kings to avoid the same 96-90 meltdown to San Miguel Beermen last November 2.
“I t is going to be the same thing. We will be up against a champion team and we have no choice but to face them even how good they are,” said Pineda, whose wards are 4-2 won-lost. “We must execute our plays in every possession.”
Alec Stockton had 28 points in a 99-94 win over Blackwater last Saturday while rookie Juan Gomez de Liaño had 14 points, seven rebounds and five assists for Converge.
Ginebra will absolutely be a tough opponent despite its 2-3 record.
T he Gin Kings are eyeing a follow up on their 104-74 win over NLEX to hit the .500 mark with still five games left in their eliminations schedule. But coach Tim Cone knows that beating Converge is not a walk in the park process.
“Any team can beat any team at any given night and Converge is extremely playing very well. We must be prepared against them,” Ginebra coach Tim Cone said. “It’s a matter of preparation.”
Santos, Super Spikers make statement victory
is a must for the Lady Bulldogs to replicate their domination of the same opponent in the finals of the 2023 edition. We got Game 1 but we can’t relax,” NU prized rookie Sam Cantada said. “We can rest awhile, but we got to be on top of our game.” T he high-flying power-hitter and Alas Pilipinas U18 star is also on the brink of achieving a rare feat of winning a triple crown. Cantada powered NU-Nazareth School to its first-ever Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League and also copped tournament MVP in her high school swan song. She earned Best Player honors after leading the Lady Bulldogs to the National Invitationals throne in an impressive seniors debut. The Tigresses, however, are determined to flip the script. The series isn’t over,” UST head coach Shaq delos Santos said. “We’ll fight back.” Angge Poyos, Regina Jurado, Marga Altea, Xyza Gula, playmaker Cassie Carballo and senior libero Detdet Pepito are ready to match the firepower of NU’s Cantada, Celine Marsh, Chams Maaya, Kaye Bombita, Vange Alinsug, setter Lams Lamina and defense specialist Shaira Jardio to force a series decider on Wednesday.
CIGNAL showed flair in stunning ZUS Coffee, 25-12, 26-24, 25-23, to strengthen its quarterfinal bid in the Premiere Volleyball League Reinforced Conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Thursday. It was a statement victory for the Super Spikers, who drew strength from a balanced, composed attack and a renewed sense of urgency in the final stretch of the eliminations.
E rika Santos rose to the occasion with a 19-point explosion built on 13
attacks, three aces, and three blocks— her final two points shattered a 23-all count in the third set and her final rejection on Chinnie Arroyo sealed the one-hour and 21-minute sweep that punctuated Cignal’s rise from the middle of the standings into solo fifth at 4-3 won-lost.
We applied what we’ve doing in training,” said Santos, who credited the team’s consistency and focus for the breakthrough. “Our mindset was to keep attacking because the remaining games are crucial for us.”
W hile import Anna DeBeer tried to rally the Thunderbelles with a fiery 26-point performance, it was Cignal’s locals who dictated the tempo.
Vanie Gandler came alive in the third set to deliver key blows, while Roselyn Aquino and Jackie Acuña chipped in six points apiece.
But it was Cignal’s net defense that truly set the tone as the Super Spikers recorded a staggering nine kill blocks compared to ZUS Coffee’s lone rejection, repeatedly shutting down DeBeer’s trademark crosscourt rockets.
The numbers told the story: Cignal also outhit ZUS Coffee, 45-36, and exploited the Thunderbelles’ erratic reception to tally seven service aces— five more than their opponents.
Playmaker Gel Cayuna once again showcased her all-around brilliance, finishing with 21 excellent sets and contributing six points, including welltimed 1-2 attacks that disrupted ZUS Coffee’s defensive schemes.
C ayuna also tallied seven excellent digs that complemented libero Dawn Catindig’s 16.
Que, like JMF, has own chase to make-OOM
Vfamily vacation in Japan giving Que a clearer path to the top. Hot on their heels is Fidel Concepcion, whose breakthrough triumph at the P3.5 million Apo Golf Classic boosted him to third with P1,250,083 in winnings. C oncepcion remains the only player with a realistic mathematical shot of overtaking Que—but only if the veteran falters this week. Still, Que isn’t expected to play it safe. Known for his aggressive style and trademark composure, the 46-year-old shotmaker is eager to cap off his stellar season in the same fashion he began it— with another victory. Behind Que and Concepcion, a pack of elite contenders will also be eyeing a triumphant finish to the PGT’s 2025 season—Guido Van der Valk, winner at Forest Hills, is at fourth with P1,194,116, while Reymon Jaraula, who reigned at home in Del Monte, rounds out the top five with P1,069,583. They’ll be joined by a strong cast of leg winners and established names like Rupert Zaragosa, Clyde Mondilla, Tony Lascuña, Jhonnel Ababa, Zanieboy Gialon, Michael Bibat, Russell Bautista, Ira Alido, Nilo Salahog and Dino Villanueva. Adding intrigue to the 72-hole championship organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc. are rising stars Carl Corpus, Aidric Chan and Sean Ramos and veteran Justin Quiban, who are back in local action following international stints.
The field also features a group of international mainstays, including Jisung Cheon, Collin Wheeler, Tae Soo Kim, Tae Won Kim and Atsushi Ueda. Meanwhile, a handful of standouts from the Junior PGT will test their mettle against the pros, including Patrick Tambalque, Jakob Taruc, Kristoffer Nadales, Alexis Nailga and Armand Copok.
JUNE MAR FAJARDO has a heyday running rings around Titan Ultra rookie Mario Barasi Jr. on his way to accomplishing a personal feat that escaped his illustrious career
THE Order of Merit title has eluded Angelo Que despite his collection of major trophies. PGT PHOTO
ERIKA SANTOS rises to the occasion for Cignal with a 19-point explosion built on 13 attacks, three aces, and three blocks. PVL IMAGES
NU prized rookie Sam Cantada: We got Game 1 but we can’t relax. SSL PHOTO