Ithe upper end of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) target by mid-2026, driven by base effects and potential increases in global commodity prices, according to Metrobank.
During the bank’s 2025 Market Movers briefing, Metrobank Chief Economist and Market Strategist
Nicholas T. Mapa said consumer price index gains are expected to accelerate in 2026 and approach the 4-percent target ceiling of the BSP by mid-year.
“This upward pressure will be driven mainly by base effects
on top of potential increases in global commodity prices, possibly fanned by US-imposed tariffs,” Mapa said.
Still, Mapa said the average fullyear inflation is still likely to stay within the BSP’s target range.
Despite the expected pickup in inflation, Mapa said the BSP is still poised to begin easing as early as December this year, with the Monetary Board maintaining a dovish stance through 2026.
The Monetary Board has delivered a total of 175-basis-points rate cut from a high of 6.50 percent after its fifth policy meeting this year, last October 9, bringing the benchmark interest rate to 4.75 percent.
“With the price stability mandate still within reach, BSP will likely stay focused on supporting sagging growth momentum,” Mapa said.
The anticipated rate cuts will feed directly into the bond market, with the Philippine yield curve expected to steepen next year.
Mapa said the lower borrowing costs should keep the short end anchored, while long-term yields may drift higher as the government increases borrowing in the 10-year tenor and as inflation gradually rises.
Expectations of further monetary easing would also reinforce downward pressure on short-term yields.
In terms of the peso, a weak local currency may continue next year as the US Federal Reserve continues its own easing cycle. Mapa said the peso is still likely to face sustained pressure as structural factors, including projected current account deficits in 2026 and 2027, could weigh on the currency even as global conditions turn more supportive. While the temporary “fiscal freeze” could slow the economy in the short term, Mapa said growth should rebound next year as capital formation and investments recover, aided by the resumption of public construction and the lagged boost from monetary easing.
BIZ GROUPS SEE RELIEF
IN FARM TARIFF LIFTING
By Andrea E. San
“The
Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) President Enunina Mangio said in a statement on
THE Philippines should utilize its large workingage population in beefing up “new growth drivers”—the manufacturing, technology and productivity, and tourism sectors—instead of relying on the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector and remittances which are growing at a slow pace, according to former Socioeconomic Planning secretary Karl Chua.
Chua, now the Managing Director for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at Ayala Corporation, said, “For 25 years,
we have relied on BPO and remittance to fuel growth, and because of its massive size, P4.5 trillion as of last year, it really fuels a lot of growth but we cannot rely on that because remittance and BPO are growing at no more than 5 percent.”
Chua spoke at the Beyond the Numbers: Year-End Review and 2026 Outlook forum organized by the Makati Business Club (MBC) on Wednesday.
The former chief economist of the country said the Philippines should use its demographic
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
bananas, coffee, tea, and coconuts, among others.
The Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc. (PCAFI) said the move bodes well for the country’s farm sector, which was previously levied a 19-percent tariff rate.
“This is good news for us since our export products to the US will be more competitive,” PCAFI President Danilo Fausto told the BusinessMirror on Wednesday. “We can anticipate increased demand, which will boost our local production.”
While the US government’s move could buoy domestic confidence,
youth—those actively seeking work but not enrolled—and 2.19 million NEET youth outside the labor force, or those neither working nor looking for work and also not in school.
This indicates a year-on-year uptick in youth NEET. In July 2024, PSA reported that about 2.80 million Filipino youth were NEET, consisting of 927,000 unemployed NEET and 1.88 million NEET not in the labor force.
ADB said the figures highlight the need for faster and more coordinated interventions.
Without timely action, Hamid warned that temporary disconnection could harden into long-term labor market losses as more young people remain detached from both learning and work.
“The risk of a lost generation is real but it [can be] fixed with the right data, with the right first steps and the right partnerships and collaboration. I think that NEET can be a temporary phase, not a life sentence,” he added.
BOC vows to hit ₧958.7-B full-year revenue target
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
THEBureau of Customs (BOC) remains determined to hit its fullyear revenue target of P958.714 billion despite declining collections and the lingering rice import ban, according to its top official.
On the sidelines of the Senate plenary debate on the 2026 national budget, Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the BOC is “not yet giving up” in meeting its revenue target. “If we concede already, it might worsen.”
Nepomuceno said the BOC is searching for other sources of revenue, such as
Temporary roadworks and uneven volunteer coverage may also have affected counts, underscoring the need for robust, all-weather infra-
structure and more systematic data-collection practices. The sharper reductions in the Visayas and Luzon highlight potential vulnerabilities related to weather exposure, infrastructure gaps, and uneven policy support, while Mindanao’s smaller decline (-6.62%) might suggest different commuting patterns.
“As we observe the Philippines’ Global Warm-
petroleum products, that can compensate for expected losses amid the extension of the rice import ban.
This comes after the BOC recorded a 4.1- percent year-on-year drop in its collections in October 2025, generating P83.322 billion from P86.885 billion a year ago, dampened by lower
ing and Climate Change Consciousness Week, the 218, 000 people who moved around cities using low-carbon transport like bicycles are an everyday reminder of what hardworking Filipinos can do to help clean our air, and act against the growing greenhouse gas emissions coming from tailpipes of motorized vehicles,” said Aimee Oliveros, Interim Branch Manager of The Climate Reality Project
import volumes and declining global oil prices.
Nepomuceno told BusinessMirror earlier that the rice import ban also contributed to the decline, with rice tariffs typically contributing P3 billion to P4 billion for the government every month.
With the hefty P958.714-billion target, Nepomuceno said the BOC will ask the Cabinetlevel Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) to adjust their collection goal this year. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/11/13/bocseeks-revised-revenue-goal-after-collections-plunge/).
Data from the BOC-Revenue Collection Monitoring Group showed that rice tariff collections fell to P13.373 trillion from January to September this year. This was down by 51.73 percent
Philippines. “The least that we can do is to ensure that our roads are safe and inclusive for them.”
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) also expressed its support for Bilang Siklista, saying the bicycle count reports can support the Department’s efforts in promoting active mobility. “While there was an observed decline from last year’s count, we see it as a
from the P27.705 billion it raised in the same period of last year.
The BOC’s nine-month collection this year is the final count of rice tariff collections since the rice importation ban, which began on September 15, will be extended until the end of the year.
It should be noted that the tariff rate on rice was reduced to 15 percent from 35 percent last June 20, 2024, under Executive Order 62, before the rice import ban took effect.
The reduced rice tariff rate has already weighed down the BOC’s collections since last year, as revenue losses have reached P29.451 billion from July 2024 to June 2025.
“We will do our best to hit the targets despite the extended rice importation ban. We will pursue having a more efficient collection effort,” Nepomuceno said.
challenge to build more cycling infrastructure that is safe, reliable, and comfortable. This initiative will definitely help the government in prioritizing areas of development, and it is always an honor for us to collaborate with our NGO and civil society partners in advancing our shared cause,” said Arch. Alvin John Pajo, Lead Planning Officer of the DOTr’s Active Transport Office.
Wednesday. Mangio said PCCI “appreciates” the United States’ continued support and recognition of the Philippines’ “trade leadership.”
“The announcement underscores the strong partnership between our countries and reinforces opportunities for Filipino enterprises to expand,” added Mangio.
In a separate statement, the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) welcomed the Executive Order issued by US President Donald Trump on November 14,2025 exempting key Philippine agricultural exports from the 19 percent reciprocal tariff.
Products include coconut, coffee, tea, tropical fruits and juices, cocoa, spices, bananas, oranges, tomatoes, beef, and certain fertilizers.
Philexport said this provides exporters with “critical relief” and strengthening the competitiveness of Philippine exports in the United States.
Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of Philexport, said: “This is a positive outcome of our sustained collaboration and engagements with key stakeholders and partners to convey the need for certain exemptions and maintain the competitiveness of Philippine exports, especially those products not locally produced in the US.” Following this development, the umbrella organization of Philippine exporters said the majority of Philippine agricultural exports to the US will benefit from more favorable tariff conditions.
Based on 2024 data, these products include: coconut oil, both crude and other than crude which is the country’s top agricultural export to the US.
dividend to fuel “the next wave of growth.”
Chua’s proposal centers on three types of tourism which are Regular/Leisure, Health, and Retirement Tourism as well as the Manufacturing and Technology and Productivity sectors.
Chua explained the reason for shifting focus, noting the BPO sector is “facing the biggest threat” or the “lack of skills, lack of educated people brought about by decades of some neglect in the education sector, brought about by neglect in the health sector that prevents students from going to school properly.”
The former Neda chief said Regular and Leisure tourism needs a lot of catching up, but noted that
there is a strong potential to develop this sector. He thinks the Philippines should be marketed as a health tourism destination.
Chua also noted there is a need to beef up the manufacturing sector, adding, “I think efforts must be used to bring in as many of those leaving China.”
Also among the “new growth drivers” should be technology and productivity, Chua said, further stressing the need to pour in “massive investment” into science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) so that the Philippines can bring up the level of innovation and research and development (R&D) in the Philippines. Andrea E. San Juan
bilateral negotiation with them. It was more because of a domestic concern on their part,” he added.
Sinag Executive Director Jayson Cainglet raised a caveat that Washington could still decide to lift the exemption.
“It will [help the country’s farm exports to the US] during this suspension, but they could still unilaterally increase them,” Cainglet told this newspaper.
“This move wasn’t borne out of our
Other products are: fruit juices, processed pineapples, desiccated coconuts; prepared or preserved coconuts; bananas, other than pulp; dried guavas, mangoes, and mangosteen; frozen tuna fillets; rice wafer products, and confectionery products.
Other agricultural exports now exempted include coffee and tea, cocoa and spices, oranges, tomatoes, beef, and selected fertilizers.
As of 2024, the US is the Philippines’ third-largest trading partner, the top export market, and the fifthlargest import supplier, with bilateral trade totaling $20.3 billion. In addition to the said agricultural products, semiconductor shipments valued at $2.5 billion to $3 billion remain exempted from reciprocal tariffs.
“Philexport remains committed to working with the Department of Trade and Industry to strengthen U.S. trade relations and bolster the competitiveness of Filipino exporters,” added Ortiz-Luis.
A White House statement said its decision came after “the substantial progress in reciprocal trade negotiations” and “current domestic demand for certain products, and current domestic capacity to produce certain products, among other things.”
Lower levy
“Several countries have already made notable progress, just days ago, in their engagements with the US,” he said.
“What we are still awaiting from our trade negotiators is meaningful progress toward reducing the 19 percent reciprocal tariff, a benchmark that many other countries have already achieved.”
MEANWHILE , Cainglet also urged the government to push for the reduction in the current 19- percent reciprocal tariffs for Philippine goods other than those currently exempted.
Frederick Go, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs, on Tuesday said the government will continue negotiations to lower tariffs on other Philippine exports such as garments, travel accessories, leather goods, and furniture, which form part of the country’s overall shipments to the US. (See: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2025/11/19/phl-agriexports-get-new-tariff-exemptions/)
Furthermore, Cainglet called on the government to clarify the zerorated import duties on select US products under the agreement.
“We also seek clarification on whether there is a formal commitment that a zero percent tariff on US imports will not be adopted, despite long-standing lobby from US meat and soya exporters,” he said.
Ombudsman seeks cancellation of Co’s passport
TBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
of arrest can be expedited.
HE Ombudsman on Wednesday said it has asked the Sandiganbayan to cancel the passport of former Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co in a bid to compel him to return to the country and face possible trial for his alleged involvement in the multi-billion anomalous flood control projects of the government.
Assistant Ombudsman Jose Dominic Clavano IV said the motion to cancel Co’s passport was included in the filing of the malversation and graft charges against Co and several others before the Sandiganbayan in connection with the P289.5 million anomalous flood control project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.
The Sandiganbayan is expected to act on the motion once it ruled on whether there is a probable cause or not to issue an arrest warrant against Co and his co-accused. Clavano also said the government can move for the issuance of an Interpol red notice against Zaldy Co once an arrest warrant is issued by the anti-graft court.
A red notice is a request to law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action.
“It was filed yesterday. Yes, it was already included in our requests. One of our requests is for the case to be raffled immediately so that the issuance of the warrant
“Then once the warrant of arrest comes out, we can use that to apply to Interpol for red notice,” Clavano said in a radio interview.
On Tuesday, the Ombudsman filed its first case before the anti-graft court for one count of malversation a through falsification of public documents and two counts of graft against Co, former officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways Region IV-B and the board of directors of Sunwest Corporation, the construction company linked to the family of Co.
The case stemmed from the investigation report and recommendation submitted by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to the Ombudsman on September 29, 2025 which covers the P289.5 million anomalous flood control project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.
The project involves the construction of a road dike along MagAsawang Tubig River.
During the inspection, it was observed that the materials used were substandard which resulted in public losses in the estimated amount of over P63 million.
The commission also noted apparent deficiencies in documentation supporting progress billings.
It noted that several payments were approved despite missing records and in some instances, identical photographs were reused to justify separate billings.
Nartatez orders easing of clearance issuance for acquitted individuals
THE National Police (PNP) has moved to ensure that dismissed, settled, or acquitted cases will not cause unnecessary delays or “hits” in police clearances.
The initiative aims to tighten data accuracy across all police units and protect citizens from the inconvenience of outdated or uncorrected entries in the PNP’s Crime Information Reporting and Analysis System (Ciras).
“May standing directive po tayo na once a court order or resolution is received, dapat within days naka -upload na sa system [We have a standing directive that once a court order or resolution is received, it must be uploaded to the system within days],” the acting PNP chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., said in a statement Tuesday.
Courts to blame
HOWEVER, many acquitted persons said that the problem is not with the PNP but with the courts.
“The courts are very fast in sending copies of warrants of arrest to the police and the National Bureau of Investigation but are notoriously slow in sending the lifting of those warrants,” a newsman who was recently acquitted from a cyberlibel case by the Regional Trial Court in Quezon City said.
As a result the newsman had to go to three different police offices to present his acquittal decision to lift the “hits” on his name – the police station nearest his office, the
police station nearest his residence and the One Stop Shop at Camp Rafael T. Crame in Quezon City.
To address delays caused by the slow transmittal of court resolutions, Nartatez cited the need for tighter coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and other agencies in the judiciary.
Gaps
“WE acknowledge that there are still gaps, especially sa bilis ng dating ng court orders sa mga istasyon [in the speed by which court orders reach the stations]. That is why we are working closely with the DOJ and the judiciary to establish faster data-sharing processes,” he said. He added that citizens should not be penalized only because of a delay in paperwork.
The PNP is also simplifying administrative clearance procedures for those whose dismissed cases still appear as derogatory entries, to reduce repetitive steps and prevent applicants from being sent to multiple units just to update records.
“Gusto natin one-stop process na lang [We want a one-stop process]. And moving forward, we plan to shift more verification procedures online para mas mabilis at mas accessible [so that it will be faster and more accessible],” Nartatez said.
The move is in line with the directive of President Marcos to strengthen public service delivery, modernize law enforcement systems, and ensure that clearance procedures are fair, transparent, and citizen-centered. PNA
The Sandiganbayan has raffled off the three cases to its Fifth Division, Seventh Division and Sixth Division.
ICI defers referral-complaint vs three senators
THE Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) said it has deferred the submission of its referral-complaint to the Ombudsman pertaining to the alleged involvement of at least three incumbent or former senators in the flood control mess.
At a press briefing, the ICI chairperson, retired SC Justice Andres Reyes Jr., said the delay was due to the new information disclosed by former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo in his supplemental affidavit.
“We are evaluating everything because of the affidavit of Usec. Bernardo. So we’re studying that. So we will have a delay of maybe 10 days from last Friday,” Reyes said. Bernardo earlier tagged Sen. Francis Escudero, former senators Ramon Revilla Jr. and Nancy Binay, and Co as among those who benefitted from the anomalous flood control projects.
In his supplemental affidavit he also implicated former senator Grace Poe, Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara and Sen. Mark Villar in the flood control anomaly.
Bernardo also tagged Education Undersecretary Trygve Olaivar who allegedly called him in
2024 to discuss unprogrammed appropriations, allegedly for the Office of the Executive Secretary.
He also accused former DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan of receiving kickbacks in infrastructure projects.
On October 29, the ICI recommended the filing of plunder and other criminal and administrative charges against Sens. Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada and several others in connection with the flood control controversy.
The recommendation was based on the testimonies and sworn affidavits provided by former Department of Public Works and Highways engineers Henry Alcantara, Brice Hernandez, and Jaypee Mendoza during the ICI hearings on September 24 and September 29, 2025.
On the other hand, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said the Marcos administration is starting to hold those involved in the flood control scandal accountable with the filing of the first case before the Sandiganbayan.
In a statement, Dizon expressed optimism that the government would have a “solid” case against Co and his co-respondents.
“This is what the President is saying: we are all impatient, we are all angry—the people. But we need to follow the process to ensure that those who should be held accountable are held accountable,” he said.
Dizon also noted that the proceedings against those implicat -
ed in the flood control mess are rolling faster considering that the first case was filed in less than two months.
“It was filed in the Sandiganbayan less than two months ago, and we think that the arrest warrants will be issued in the next few days,” he said.
Dizon added that former DPWH officials and contractors will be charged next regarding the ghost and substandard flood control projects in Bulacan.
“This follows the President’s directive to immediately ensure that the people’s money is returned, those involved in ghost and substandard flood control projects are charged, and that someone is imprisoned as soon as possible,” the DPWH chief said.
ICI asks for Ilbo vs 17 more THIS developed as the ICI yesterday asked the Department of Justice (DOJ) to place 17 more individuals under the immigration lookout bulletin (ILBO) who were named as Co’s co-accused in the cases filed before the Sandiganbayan.
The 17 individuals were identified as Gerald A. Pacanan—Regional Director, DPWH Region IV-B; Gene Ryan A. Altea—Assistant Regional Director; Ruben C. Santos, Jr.—Assistant Regional Director; Dominic G. Serrano—Chief, Construction Division; BAC Chairperson; Felisardo S. Casuno—Project Engineer III; Timojen A. Sacar—Materials Engineer; Montrexis T. Tamayo—
Comelec set to make Marcoleta explain non-disclosure of campaign contributors
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) is set to require Sen. Rodante Marcoleta to explain the non-declaration of his donors in his submitted statement of contributions and expenditures (Soce) for the 2025 midterm polls.
The poll body made the move in the wake of Marcoleta’ public admission that he intentionally left out the names of his campaign donors from his Soce “to honor their request for anonymity.”
The lawmaker’s Soce indicates that he spent a total of P112.8 million for his senatorial campaign—more than twice of his declared 2025 Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth
(SALN), which amounts to P51.9 million.
Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia said the show cause order against Marcoleta, to be issued next week, will give the senator a fair opportunity to explain his side.
“To give the senator a proper venue to explain. It’s difficult when things are said on social media, people might claim we aren’t acting…This is necessary so we can formally ask for his explanation, since the SALN is already public and we also have a copy of the Soce,” Garcia told reporters in an interview on Wednesday.
He clarified that the poll body is not initiating a motu proprio case, but wants to ensure transparency and allow Marcoleta to
address the issue. Under Section 99 of the Omnibus Election Code, all candidates are required to provide a detailed list of the donors and personal expenses incurred during their respective campaigns.
As far as the Comelec is concerned, Garcia said, no candidate is exempt from such rule.
“Donations received during the campaign period must all be declared… Otherwise, what’s the point of taking an oath before us if some items will not be included?,” he added.
Garcia said falsifying a Soce is an election offense punishable by one to six years imprisonment.
It may also constitute perjury and falsification of a public document, which carry heavier penalties.
IndoPac countries meet in Manila to strengthen maritime cooperation
MORE than 120 officials representing 45 countries in the Indo-Pacific region are meeting in Manila in an effort to strengthen the multinational governance of Indo-Pacific Regional Information Sharing (Ioris)—the coordination and information-sharing platform developed and implemented by the European Union Critical Maritime Routes Indo-Pacific (Crimario) project since 2018—during the
Third Ioris Steering Committee Policy Board and Working Groups Meeting.
Opening the event, the EU Ambassador to the Philippines Massimo Santoro remarked: “The collective presence of all partners and stakeholders today underlines our shared understanding of the need to work together across agencies and borders to uphold a peaceful, secure, and rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific. The European Union stands ready to
support these collective efforts, fostering coordination, resilience, and freedom of navigation in line with the rule of law and the UN Charter.” Participants will deliberate on key policy, operational and technical areas and opportunities to enhance cooperation across the region, using Ioris, from the east coast of Africa, through Asia and the Pacific, to Latin America.
PNP prepares security for November 30 ‘Trillion Peso March’
By Rex Anthony Naval
Melencio Nartatez Jr., said in a statement. He added that the force is now intensifying preparations for the anticipated nationwide conduct of the “Trillion Peso March,”
which is being
said
OIC-Chief, Planning and Design Division; Juliet C. Calvo—Chief, Maintenance Division; Dennis P. Abagon—OIC-Chief, Quality Assurance and Hydrology Division; Regular Member, BAC; Lerma D. Cayco—Accountant IV; Grace D. Lopez—Regular Member, BAC; Friedrich Karl L. Camero—Vice Chairperson, BAC; Aderma Angelie D. Alcazar—President and Chairperson, Sunwest Board of Directors; Cesar X. Buenaventura— Treasurer and Member, Sunwest Board of Directors; Consuelo D. Aldon—Member, Sunwest Board of Directors; Engr. Noel Y. Cao— Member, Sunwest Board of Directors; and Anthony L. Ngo—Member, Sunwest Board of Directors.
“Given the seriousness of the charges and the ongoing proceedings, their participation remains essential, and there is a reasonable possibility that they may attempt to leave the country while the cases are pending,” ICI told the DOJ.
An ILBO will not prevent an individual from leaving the country as it is only meant to alert authorities that he or she is leaving, the purpose of travel and the destination.
Only a hold departure order issued by the court can prevent an individual from leaving.
“The prompt issuance of an Ilbo is therefore necessary to prevent potential obstruction, ensure continuity of the legal process and uphold the orderly conduct of related investigations,” the ICI said.
Bersamin: I did not resign
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
DENYING the Palace’s announcement that he voluntarily resigned from his post after being linked in the collection of P52-billion kickbacks from public works projects, former Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said he is willing to face the allegations hurled against him not in the Senate, but before the courts. Bersamin disputed the announcement made by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Monday that he resigned, together with Budget and Management Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman “out of delicadeza.” He clarified that he was only informed by a “close friend” that was supposed to vacate his post without any explanation hours before the said announcement.
Saying he respects the prerogative of the President to remove him, Bersamin said he felt “bad and compelled to speak out” it since he was not given the due courtesy of being informed first about it before its announcement.
“I am aware of the nature of serving at the pleasure of the President because I have been the executor of all instructions to remove some people, replace them, etc. So I know that. So anyway, I will not take it against them and I will not be disappointed,” Bersamin said partly in Filipino in a telephone interview with Palace reporters on Wednesday.
“My only concern is when they make an announcement about me personally—did I resign or not—they should have consulted me first, that’s courtesy, right,” he added. Besamin disclosed he was able to talk to President Marcos on Monday evening, but he did not disclose what they talked about since he was still on holdover
ERC seeks comments on RORH power projects’ feed in tariff
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
THE Energy Regulatory Com -
mission (ERC) is soliciting comments from industry stakeholders on the proposed Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) fourth round for run-of-river hydro (RORH) power projects.
“There is no final rate yet. We are still conducting a public consultation,” ERC chairperson Francis Saturnino Juan commented when asked about the proposed P6.3846 per kilowatt hour (kWh) FIT-4 for 100 megawatts (MW) of RORH power projects scheduled for delivery in 2028.
A group of hydro power developers is appealing to the commission to issue “reasonable rates,” higher than the proposed rate “for us to be encouraged to develop more.”
“The reality is we’re not just producing water or power, but we are also taking care of the watershed and the infrastructure that we contribute to the countryside,” said Philhydro Association Inc. president Gertrude Roque on the sidelines of the 2025 Philippine Hydro Summit and Exhibition.
The group proposed for the ERC to adopt the actual average capacity factor in the computation of the FIT4 as this best represents the true conditions and challenges of operating RORH power plant.
“Considering that a number of
RORH plants are now commercially operational, there is ample actual and historical data to use that are verifiable by regulators. RORH plants are not only Influenced by the efficiency of turbines but also the availability of water flowing in the river, which are all reflected in the actual and historical data of operational plants considering the site-specific nature of hydropower development and the nature of required works, extensive exposure to geological conditions, access problems, and flooding, which affects the actual,” Philhydro said.
Roque said industry stakeholders must acknowledge the “very real challenges” in the development of RORH power. These are complex permitting, lagging infrastructure, financing limitations, market ambiguities, and the need for genuine lifetime trust-building with communities.
For the DOE’s part, Secretary Sharon Garin acknowledged that the road to RORH development can be long and complex. “Yet, acknowledging these challenges is only the first step. If we are to translate our shared commitment into tangible results, we must now chart the path forward and establish concrete, measurable commitments from all sectors to accelerate development while upholding integrity throughout the process,” the energy chief said.
Student fare discount valid on weekends, holidays
THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Wednesday warned drivers and operators of public utility vehicles (PUV) to honor the 20-percent student discount even during weekends and holidays, or else face fines or even revocation of their franchise.
In a statement, LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said there hav been complaints that some PUVs do not honor the discount during long weekends and in recent class suspensions.
The warning was in line with President Marcos’ instruction to ensure the welfare of students.
He said the same policy applies to fare discounts for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
“The law is very clear about this. There must be a discount to students even during holidays for as long as they are enrolled,” Mendoza said.
He referred to Republic Act 11314, or “An Act Institutionalizing the Grant of Student Fare Discount Privileges on Public Transportation.”
Section 4 of the law states, “The
Economy
Young Pinoys see themselves as future breadwinners–study
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
MANY young Filipinos expect to become their families’ primary earners, according to a new report released by public opinion research firm WR Numero.
According to the first edition of the Filipino Perspectives Digest, financial stability and supporting loved ones ranked highest among the priorities of participants aged 18 to 25.
The study noted that these goals outweighed pursuits such as postgraduate study, travel, or moving abroad.
“Financial security, they
stressed, isn’t just about personal comfort. It is about lifting up their families,” the report said.
Giving back to parents, helping siblings finish school, and securing better prospects for the next generation were described as central to this outlook.
WR Numero also reported that participants were aware of the barriers they face, pointing to
low wages, insecure employment and long-standing inequalities.
“For many, these challenges stem from government corruption and a lack of political will,” the study said.
Earlier Senate inquiry estimates showed that as much as P1.029 trillion in climate-tagged government spending may have been lost to corruption since 2023, including P560 billion this year.
The report also referenced broader economic conditions shaping young people’s expectations.
The Department of Labor and Employment earlier announced that more than a million minimum wage earners in Metro Manila began receiving a P50 daily pay increase in July, raising the non-agricultural minimum wage from P645 to P695 under Wage
Fire-hit San Juan families get houses
THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) on Tuesday handed over modular housing units to the San Juan City government for more than a hundred families displaced by a recent fire. Located in barangay Batis, the structures will function as temporary shelters while longer-term arrangements are being prepared. The site can accommodate up to 156 families.
‘PHL
Sfare discount granted under this Act shall be available during the entire period while the student is enrolled, including weekends and holidays.”
Under the law, the maximum penalty for PUV drivers is a threemonth suspension of the driver’s license and a P1,000 fine for each offense.
On the other hand, PUV operators face a maximum fine of P15,000 and revocation of their Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC).
“Kaya umayos kayo dahil kung hindi, ako mismo ang aayos ng mga kaso laban sa inyo para hindi lang kayo magmulta kung hindi mawalan kayo ng prangkisa [That’s why you must follow the law because if you don’t, I will personally file a case against you so that you’ll not only be fined, but you will lose your franchise],” Mendoza said.
He called on students to file a complaint against erring PUVs through the LTFRB hotline 0956761-0739 or through their official social media accounts.
“All you have to do is to properly document it, and we will take care of the rest,” he said. PNA
DHSUD said the units will also double as the staging area for a housing project under the Expanded Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program. The families affected by the fire are being considered as potential beneficiaries of the program.
DHSUD said it is the first in-city staging area under the Expanded 4PH initiative to become operational in Metro Manila.
The San Juan 4PH project will be
carried out by the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC), which is overseeing the shift toward faster on-site construction for the development.
“We are not using traditional construction technology here. We will be using a much faster system, which will allow quicker implementation. But we assure you the project will be sturdy,” SHFC president Federico Laxa said in Filipino.
Bless Aubrey Ogerio
Vape Law a harm-reduction blueprint’
TAKEHOLDERS from all over the Philippines are urging the country’s delegation to the World Health Organization’s tobacco control conference to defend Republic Act 11900, or the Vape Law, and present it as a viable national model for tobacco harm reduction.
They also want the delegation to articulate a balanced and science-grounded position that reflects both consumer interests and public health priorities.
The call comes as the Philippines joins the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11) to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) in Geneva, Switzerland.
The conference, which began Monday, is expected to consider a range of new tobacco control proposals that could significantly affect the availability of less harmful alternatives.
Advocates argue that some WHO positions disregard emerging scientific evidence and lived experiences of consumers. They warn that overly restrictive measures may end up pushing former smokers back to combustible cigarettes, undermining years of progress. They maintain that disease stems
from inhaling smoke produced by burning tobacco—not from nicotine itself. Although nicotine is addictive, they note it can be delivered without combustion.
Consumer group Vaper Ako raised concerns that proposals under discussion at COP11 may erode consumer choice and limit access to less harmful alternatives such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco systems. These options, the group said, have assisted many Filipino smokers in transitioning away from conventional cigarettes.
They emphasized that a science-based framework is crucial, reiterating that “it is the smoke from burning tobacco, not nicotine, that causes smoking-related diseases.” The group said adult smokers deserve access to accurate information and safer alternatives.
Vaper Ako warned that sweeping bans and extreme restrictions may drive consumers back to cigarettes or into unregulated markets—outcomes that contradict public health objectives. They stressed the importance of evidence-based, inclusive policymaking that brings together experts from health, science, consumer sectors, and other relevant stakeholders.
The group also encouraged the
Philippine delegation to continue the trajectory set at COP10 in Panama in February 2024, where officials presented a “tailored, multi-sectoral approach” to FCTC implementation and highlighted the Vape Law as part of the country’s national strategy.
International harm reduction advocates echoed the same sentiments.
The World Vapers Alliance (WVA) called harm reduction “a public health necessity backed by science and real-world data.”
WVA director Michael Landl criticized the COP process as an “echo chamber for outdated anti-science policies stuck in the past.” WVA director of operations
Liza Katsiashvili added that “banning flavors in vaping won’t protect anyone, but will only send smokers straight back to cigarettes,” and warned that “heavy taxes and outright bans drive people to the black market.”
The WVA staged a protest at the COP11 venue to demand consumer representation in decisions that affect harm reduction products such as vaping and nicotine pouches. The group said FCTC delegates must choose whether to “learn from fact or keep repeating the same costly mistakes.”
Order NCR-26.
Participants from rural areas, the Digest said, emphasized the need for stronger local investment to lessen dependence on major urban centers.
This comes as new figures from the Philippine Statistics Authority show that highly urbanized cities generated an estimated P9.78 trillion in total economic output in 2024.
The Filipino Perspectives Digest serves as a companion to WR Numero’s Philippine Public Opinion Monitor.
Its inaugural issue draws from six focus group discussions with 46 young Filipinos born between 1997 and 2012, held across Metro Manila, the Ilocos Region, the Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao and the Bangsamoro region.
Bersamin. .
Continued from A4
capacity that time and their conversation was still covered by “technical protection of confidentiality.”
As of press time, PCO has yet to issue a statement on Bersamin’s claims about his resignation.
Ready to face allegations
The acting PNP chief also said that they have sufficient personnel to secure the events.
Nartatez added that the force is now coordinating with local governments and organizers to ensure that the event proceeds smoothly and peacefully,” Nartatez said.
“The successful security implementation during the recent rallies, particularly at the Quirino Grandstand was another good experience that [boosted] the operational capability of the PNP in handling large assemblies. With the cooperation of the organizers and participants, we are confident of ensuring the safety of the people as they exercise their democratic rights,” he added.
Nartatez also emphasized that all measures are based on careful planning, previous experiences, and real-time intelligence to protect both participants and the general public.
He also noted that potential threats include crowd congestion, road accidents, and isolated incidents of lawless behavior like the violent protest at Ayala Bridge and Mendiola in Manila on September 21. To mitigate these threats, the PNP has set up multiple checkpoints, rapid response teams, and coordinated closely with emergency services.
The public is advised to expect road closures and rerouting in key areas, particularly along major thoroughfares, he said. Nartatez also appealed for cooperation and understanding to keep the mass demonstration peaceful.
The event will feature presentations of success stories that illustrate the platform’s tangible impact and contribution to regional cooperation. Notable examples include the interdiction of narcotics and other contraband, life-saving interventions during complex Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, coordinated counter-piracy efforts, and cooperative actions to combat illegal, unregulated, and unreported fisheries (IUU).
“This meeting will set the path for Ioris to meet the evolving needs of our agencies and partners,” said Martin Cauchi Inglott, EU Crimario project director. “We will align operational exercises, user feedback, and legal standards to build a future-ready system that strengthens trust and readiness.”
Recognizing that maritime security challenges transcend national borders,
participants will work together to plan a more effective use of the platform for interagency operational coordination and international collaboration, essential to swiftly and efficiently respond to threats at sea.
Vice Adm. Roy A. Echeverria, director of the Philippine National Maritime Center concluded: “In line with the recent EU-Philippines Security and Defence Dialogue, the Ioris Steering Committee Working groups meeting will further deepen our strategic partnership, opening doors for enhanced cooperation in maritime security, hybrid threats, and regional resilience. This partnership, grounded in the rule of law and international norms, underscores our shared commitment to upholding a rules-based maritime order and increase regional cooperation on maritime security.”
During the conference, officials will discuss latest Ioris improvements (such as Prime and Lite) and future plans for Ioris
mobile application and variants, aimed to find suitable solutions for improving platform’s performance, usability, and operational effectiveness. Moreover, they will provide feedback on system performance, identify key successes, challenges, and lessons learned, and agree on priority improvements and follow-up actions to enhance usability and operational outcomes.
The meeting will also present plans for future Ioris trainings and exercises, including frequency, participating partners, and exercise levels, highlighting the critical role of exercises in preparing agencies for future operational challenges.
Meanwhile, the Legal Working Group will review cases concerning the admissibility of digital evidence in different jurisdictions. They will adopt a common stance on evidence obtained through IORIS and outline the legal steps required to achieve ISO 27001 certification, ensuring that digital evidence management remains secure and compliant.
CITING information from former Public Works Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo M. Lacson claimed Bersamin helped in facilitating the collection of P52 billion kickbacks from the 2025 budget by his grandnephew, former Presidential Legislative Liaison Office (PLLO) Undersecretary Adrian A. Bersamin and former Education Undersecretary Trygve Olaivar. Lacson claimed the amount came from the P100-billion worth of projects, which was inserted in the bicameral version of the 2025 national budget, which was revealed by former Ako Bicol Party list representative Elizaldy Co. Co alleged that the insertions were ordered by Marcos, but Lacson said it was done by the former PLLO undersecretary and Olaivar without the knowledge of the President. Bersamin, just like PCO, has denied that the Office of the President intervened in the bicameral conference deliberations on the 2025 national budget and that he has any interactions with Bernardo and Olaivar. But he did admit that he was able to talk to his grandnephew about the matter several times.
He slammed the ongoing efforts to link him to the issue through mere innuendos, which are destroying his and his family’s reputation, especially on social media. The former executive secretary said he is willing to face the said allegations not in the Senate, but before the courts.
“Not in the Senate because I know there is nothing that I can say...If ever they want to charge me as the mastermind, whatever case they want to file, they [should just] file it,” he said.
“These things, allegations like this should ultimately be established in court,” he added.
A6 Thursday, November 20, 2025
Editor: Angel R. Calso
US plan for Gaza Strip won UN backing; carrying it out could be far more difficult
By Lee Keath The Associated Press
CAIRO—The UN Security Council has backed the United States’ ambitious plan for the future of the Gaza Strip. How and when it will be carried out remain largely unknown.
In a twist unimaginable across the tumultuous history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the plan would mean US President Donald Trump becomes the de facto ruler of Gaza. The territory remains devastated by Israel’s campaign to eliminate Hamas after its Oct. 7, 2023, attack that sparked the war.
An international body known as the Board of Peace, chaired by Trump, is to govern Gaza and oversee reconstruction under a 2-year, renewable U.N. mandate.
An armed International Stabilization Force is to keep security and ensure the disarming of Hamas, a key demand of Israel.
Major questions hang over nearly every part of the plan and the timeframe for implementation. In the meantime, nearly all Palestinians remain displaced and dependent on humanitarian aid, Hamas retains significant control over nearly half of Gaza and the rebuilding of the territory has barely begun.
Challenges at every step SOME talks over the next steps have taken place behind the scenes
among the US, Israel, Qatar, Egypt and other countries. But serious negotiations have not begun because Israel and Hamas remain in the first phase of the ceasefire deal that came into effect in October. The militant group is still required to hand over the bodies of the last three hostages.
The UN resolution passed Monday gave the plan international legitimacy. That opens the door for Arab and Muslim-majority nations to participate, particularly by contributing troops to the ISF. The US is hoping that the more those countries are involved, the more palatable the international rule will be for Gaza’s more than 2 million people.
But the Palestinian public’s acceptance is far from certain. Without it, the Board of Peace risks becoming seen as a foreign occupation working on behalf of Israel, further thwarting their dream of self-determination and statehood.
The plan gives Palestinians almost no voice in governing Gaza. Because of Israel’s fierce opposition, it doesn’t promise statehood, offering only a vague reference
that it might one day be possible. It also gives only an ambiguous timetable for reconstruction to begin and for the Israeli military to withdraw from the around 50% of the Gaza Strip that it still holds since the ceasefire began.
Will disarmament happen?
DISARMING Hamas and demilitarizing Gaza are the keystones to the whole plan. But there’s no detail on how that will happen.
So far, the militant group has not agreed to disarm. In a statement after the UN resolution’s passage, Hamas said the fate of its weapons is connected to ensuring a path to the end of the Israeli occupation and the creation of a Palestinian state.
The International Stabilization Force is tasked with ensuring disarmament and the destruction of Hamas’ military infrastructure. The ISF will also oversee a Palestinian police force, made up of vetted members trained by Egypt and Jordan.
A number of nations have been cited as possible contributors to the ISF, including Egypt, Indonesia, Turkey and Azerbaijan. But none has committed to sending troops yet, and Israel opposes Turkey participating in the force. They are unlikely to want their soldiers to take Hamas’ weapons by force. Hamas warned that trying to do so would turn the ISF “into a party to the conflict in favor of the occupation.”
Hamas is under heavy pressure, particularly from Qatar and Egypt, to find a compromise. One possible idea is a “decommissioning”—handing the arsenal over to the ISF for safekeeping—which
Hamas could argue is not a permanent surrender of its right to armed resistance.
Without disarmament, much of the rest of the plan could stall. Israel’s troop withdrawal is linked to the pace of Hamas demilitarization and the deployment of the ISF. Reconstruction is also unlikely to happen in most of Gaza unless Hamas disarms.
Many Palestinians fear the end result will be a partition of Gaza between an Israeli-controlled zone, where some reconstruction might take place, and the rest, where almost all of the population of more than 2 million live with little rebuilding.
Who will make up the Board of Peace?
TRUMP has said the board will be made up of “distinguished leaders” from other countries, includ -
ing former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, and that its members will be named in the coming weeks. But who they will be is unknown, and even Blair’s participation has not been confirmed.
The UN resolution gives the Board complete say in Gaza with powers over the ISF, reconstruction and economic recovery. The Board is also to oversee a “technocratic, apolitical committee of competent Palestinians” who will run the day-to-day civil service in Gaza.
Who are these independent Palestinians?
THE members of the Palestinian committee are to have no connection to either Hamas or the Palestinian Authority, which currently administers scattered parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Israel has rejected any role for the PA in Gaza.
The plan doesn’t specify who will select the members, but that likely will fall to the Board of Peace. Israel will want to have a strong say in who can be included. In an online post, Palestinian political analyst and pollster Khalil Shikaki said the committee should be picked through an “an all Palestinian” process to boost its support, consulting among political factions, trade syndicates, local leaders and women’s and youth organizations.
But if the Board and the committee are seen as a tool for the US or Israel, prominent Palestinians may be reluctant to join. In its statement Monday, Hamas denounced the “international guardianship” that the UN resolution places on Gaza, saying it aims to further Israel’s interests.
What is all this leading to?
T HE plan emphasizes two goals for Gaza—demilitarization and reconstruction. Anything beyond that remains largely blank. The UN resolution offers the possibility of the Palestinian Authority eventually taking control of Gaza if it carries out a slate of internal reforms to the satisfaction of the Board of Peace—everything from fighting corruption, increasing efficiency to holding elections. The Palestinian Authority welcomed the UN resolution in a statement Monday and said it was prepared to step in to govern Gaza. But Israeli opposition raises doubts whether that will ever be allowed to happen.
Under pressure from Arab allies, the United States inserted a reference to Palestinian statehood
See “Gaza,” A7
Trump welcomes Saudi crown prince to White House, downplays Khashoggi’s killing as relationship rekindles
By Aamer Madhani The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump on Tuesday dismissed US intelligence findings that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman likely had some culpability in the 2018 killing of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi as Trump warmly welcomed the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia on his first White House visit in seven years.
The US-Saudi relationship had, for a time, been sent into a tailspin by the operation targeting Khashoggi, a fierce critic of the kingdom. But seven years later, the dark clouds over the relationship have been cleared away. And Trump is tightening his embrace of the 40-year-old crown prince, who he said is an indispensable player in shaping the Middle East in the decades to come. Trump in his defense of the crown prince derided Khashoggi as “extremely controversial” and said “a lot of people didn’t like that gentleman.” Prince Mohammed denies involvement in the killing of Khashoggi, who was a Saudi citizen and Virginia resident.
“Whether you like him or didn’t like him, things happen,” Trump said when asked about the killing by a reporter during an Oval Office appearance with Prince Mohammed. “But (Prince Mohammed) knew nothing
See “Saudi,” A7
A GENERAL view shows a Security Council meeting at the UN headquarters, Sept. 23, 2025, at the United Nations. AP/YUKI IWAMURA
Pope strongly backs US bishops in blasting Trump immigration crackdown, urges humane treatment
CASTEL
By Trisha Thomas The Associated Press
GANDOLFO, Italy—Pope
Leo XIV on Tuesday strongly backed US bishops who condemned the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, as he urged the American people to listen to them and treat migrants humanely.
justice, said he appreciated the US bishops’ statement and urged Catholics and all people of goodwill to listen to what they said.
“I think we have to look for ways of treating people humanely, treating people with the dignity that they have,” said the Chicago-born Leo. “If people are in the United States illegally, there are ways to treat that. There are courts, there’s a system of justice.”
Speaking to reporters as he left the papal country house south of Rome, Leo acknowledged there are problems in the US migration system. But he stressed that no one has said the US should have open borders, and that every country has the right to determine who can enter and how.
outside his villa in Castel Gandolfo, where he usually spends Monday afternoons and Tuesdays relaxing, playing tennis and swimming in the estate’s indoor pool.
He suggested that he is planning more travel starting in 2026, after his Rome commitments ease up with the end of the Holy Year. Asked if he would return to Peru, where he spent some 20 years as a missionary, Leo said “of course.”
But he also hinted at other possible destinations, including the Fatima shrine in Portugal, the Guadalupe shrine in Mexico, and visits to Argentina and Uruguay.
Leo, who has previously urged local bishops to take the lead on speaking out on matters of social
History’s first American pope was asked about the “special message” the US Conference of Catholic Bishops adopted during the bishops’ general assembly last week. The text criticized the Trump administration’s mass deportation of migrants and the “vilification” of them in the current migration debate. It lamented the fear and anxiety immigration raids have sown in communities, and the denial of pastoral care to migrants in detention centers.
“But when people are living good lives, and many of them for 10, 15, 20 years, to treat them in a way that is extremely disrespectful to say the least—and there’s been some violence unfortunately—I think that the bishops have
been very clear in what they said,” he said.
“I would just invite all people in the United States to listen to them.”
The bishops’ “special message” was rare, the first time since 2013 the bishops had penned such a single-issue statement at one of
their meetings. It was accompanied by an Instagram video of individual bishops reading the text on camera, to hammer home its message.
Upcoming travel plans
LEO spoke to reporters gathered
“I love to travel, the problem is scheduling with all the commitments,” he said.
Leo next week will embark on his first foreign trip as pope, to Turkey and Lebanon.
AP journalist Nicole Winfield in Rome contributed to this report.
Africa hosts its first G20 and urges the rich world to do more against climate disasters
By Michelle Gumede The Associated Press
J
OHANNESBURG—In South Africa ‘s oldest township, volunteers in wetsuits jump into the thigh-deep water of the polluted Jukskei River to untangle a net that’s designed to trap garbage but damaged by heavy rains. Without the nets, the shacks of low-lying Alexandra on the outskirts of Johannesburg could face disastrous flooding.
World leaders with the Group of 20 rich and developing nations will meet this weekend in Johannesburg for the bloc’s first summit
Saudi.
Continued from A6 about it. And we can leave it at that. You don’t have to embarrass our guest by asking a question like that.”
But US intelligence officials determined that the Saudi crown prince likely approved the killing by Saudi agents of US-based journalist inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, according to US findings declassified in 2021 at the start of the Biden administration. Trump officials, during his first administration, refused to release the report.
Prince Mohammed said Saudi Arabia “did all the right steps” to investigate Khashoggi’s death.
“It’s painful and it’s a huge mistake,” he said.
Trump, who said the two leaders have become “good friends,” even commended the Saudi leader for strides made by the kingdom on human rights without providing any specific detail.
New investment from Saudis THE crown prince for his part announced Saudi Arabia was increasing its planned investments in the US to $1 trillion, up from
in Africa. Host South Africa wants to prioritize issues affecting poor countries, including responses to disasters made worse by climate change.
South Africa will urge rich countries and international financial institutions to help more—a plea also being made at global climate talks in Brazil.
Alexandra’s over half a million residents live within steps of South Africa’s richest financial district, Sandton. But flooding often submerges bridges, leaving the township’s children unable to get to school. It is a “big hazard,” said Semadi Manganye, a resident and
$600 billion that the Saudis announced they would pour into the United States when Trump visited the kingdom in May.
Echoing rhetoric that Trump likes to use, the crown prince called the US the “hottest country on the planet” for foreign investment.
“What you’re creating is not about an opportunity today. It’s also about long-term opportunity,” Prince Mohammed said.
Trump’s family has a strong personal interest in the kingdom. In September, London real estate developer Dar Global announced that it plans to launch Trump Plaza in the Red Sea city of Jeddah.
It’s Dar Global’s second collaboration with the Trump Organization, the collection of companies controlled by the US president’s children, in Saudi Arabia.
Trump pushed back on suggestions that there could be a conflict of interest in his family’s dealings with the Saudis.
“I have nothing to do with the family business,” Trump said.
Trump’s comments about Khashoggi’s killing and defense of his family’s business in Saudi Arabia were blasted by human rights and government oversight activists.
Human rights groups say Saudi authorities continue to harshly repress
co-founder of the volunteer group, the Alexandra Water Warriors.
Devastating for poor countries “THE ravages of the climate are directly linked to the ravages of inequality,” Binaifer Nowrojee, president of the Open Society Foundations, a non-governmental organization promoting democracy and governance, told The Associated Press. “Countries are facing the destructive choice between growing their economies and taking climate action.”
The World Bank says the poorest countries were hit by nearly eight times as many natural disas -
dissent, including by arresting human rights defenders, journalists and political dissidents for criticism against the kingdom. They also note a surge in executions in Saudi Arabia that they connect to an effort to suppress internal dissent.
“President Trump has Jamal Khashoggi’s blood on his hands,” said Raed Jarrar, advocacy director for DAWN, a US-based group advocating for democracy and human rights in the Arab world that was founded by Khashoggi.
Rolling out the red carpet
TRUMP warmly received Prince Mohammed when he arrived at the White House Tuesday morning for a pomp-filled arrival ceremony that included a military flyover and a thundering greeting from the US Marine band.
Technically, it wasn’t a state visit, because the crown prince is not the head
ters in the decade from 2010-2020 as they were from 1980-1990.
Southern Africa has been struck by strong tropical storms in the past decade, killing thousands of people and leaving nations with unbearable rebuilding costs. Cyclone Idai, which scientists say was made more powerful by climate change, ripped through Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe in 2019, causing an estimated $2 billion worth of damage, according to the World Bank. Malawi’s gross domestic product is just $12 billion.
Last year, the El Nino weather phenomenon caused one of the
of state. But Prince Mohammed has taken charge of the day-to-day governing for his father, King Salman, 89, who has endured health problems in recent years.
Later, Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcomed the crown prince for a black-tie dinner in the White House East Room. The boldface names who attended included Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, tech entrepreneur Elon Musk and soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo.
Trump at the dinner announced he was designating Saudi Arabia as a major nonNATO ally. The designation, while largely symbolic, provides foreign partners with certain benefits in the areas of defense, trade and security cooperation.
The president also announced that the two leaders had signed a new defense agreement, but the White House did not
worst droughts in decades in the region, devastating small-scale agriculture and leaving people even poorer.
Lobbying world leaders
CLIMATE financing has been a focus of sharp debate between rich and poor countries at major summits like the G20.
Rich countries agreed at last year’s United Nations climate summit to pool at least $300 billion a year by 2035 to help developing countries deal with the impacts of climate change and weather disasters. But independent experts said much more—an
Continued from A6
in the UN resolution.
But it remains only a vague nod. It states that if the Palestinian Authority “faithfully” carries out reforms and if Gaza redevelopment advances, “conditions may finally be in place for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood.”
The lack of a clear path to selfdetermination threatens to complicate every other step. For example, Shikaki wrote, without a path to statehood, “disarmament will be seen as capitulation; with it, demobilization can be framed as part of national strategy.”
estimated $1 trillion a year—was needed by 2030.
One of the world’s largest polluters, the United States, won’t even attend this weekend’s G20 summit as it boycotts over US President Donald Trump’s widely rejected claims that South Africa is violently persecuting a white minority. That makes action on climate, or even a meaningful declaration, from the G20 a tall order.
South Africa’s own failures THE Alexandra Water Warriors
For much of the population, the priority is to see reconstruction and a revival of Gaza’s economy so families have livelihoods. If that comes, it could paper over reluctance toward international rule, at least for a time. If it doesn’t or if Palestinians see no progress toward self-determination, resentment is likely to mount. The potential for chaos is high with the multiple divisions within Gaza. Already, the territory has Hamas, several Israeli-backed armed gangs that oppose the militant group and the Israeli military itself. Add to those a Palestinian police force, international troops, Palestinians who join the administration and those who oppose it—and the scene becomes even more volatile.
POPE Leo XIV delivers his speech at the Pontifical Lateran University on the occasion of the opening of the academic year, in Rome, Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. AP/ALESSANDRA TARANTINO
See “Saudi,” A8
See “Africa,” A8
A8 Thursday, November 20, 2025
160 Ukrainian energy workers have been killed as Russia pummels power system
By Hanna Arhirova, Julia Demaree Nikhinson, Volodymyr Yurchuk & Dmytro Zhyhinas The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—Friends often ask Mykhailo whether the Ukrainian power plant worker hides in a shelter when Russia bombards the energy system.
“If all the turbine operators hid during attacks, there’d be no energy left,” he said, standing inside the machine hall of a thermal power plant. “We have to stay at our posts. Who else would do the job?”
Almost four years into Russia’s invasion, keeping Ukraine’s lights on has become a battle of its own—fought along a moving front line. Engineers repeatedly repair transformers, switchyards, and power lines that Russia strikes again and again while using bomb-laden drones to hunt workers’ trucks near the border. And that work repairing damage from Russian attacks is happening when a major embezzlement and kickbacks scandal at the state-owned nuclear power company has put top officials under scrutiny.
Since the war began at least 160 energy workers have been killed, including a colleague of Mykhailo’s. More than 300 others have been wounded. Yet tens of thousands still head out each day— sometimes fearful, sometimes resigned, often driven by a quiet mission to bring light through the darkness.
Mykhailo has worked in the energy sector for 23 years and never imagined his daily reality could be so perilous. Mykhailo spoke on condition that his surname— and that of his former colleague,
Dmytro—not be used because of heightened security concerns about his location.
Mykhailo was just a few meters away when Dmytro was killed. “I was simply luckier,” Mykhailo said quietly.
The AP had met Dmytro in 2024, after an earlier strike on the plant. At the time, Dmytro said he would “work as long as I can.” He died seven months later.
Energy workers became targets IN the northern city of Chernihiv, Andrii Dzhuma, 58, has spent more than three decades replacing and repairing the same power lines he helped build—when old wooden poles were swapped for new concrete ones and Ukraine was still part of the Soviet Union.
Since the war began, Dzhuma has patched nearly 100 kilometers (65 miles) of damaged wires—not to modernize, but to restore what’s been shattered.
“Somehow, but we still give people light,” he said. He is proud of his work, even though it makes him a potential target.
For many energy workers, that realization changes little in their routine. They keep showing up.
“Better I become a target for Russia than civilians or soldiers,” said 24-year-old Bohdan Bilous,
dressed in his work uniform while repairing power lines in the northern town of Shostka, which was plunged into blackout last month after heavy strikes.
Bilous said his shifts often stretch more than 12 hours, sometimes under the buzz of drones.
“If one hits me, of course, it’ll be sad for everyone. But I’ll be glad it wasn’t a child, or a residential building. In a way, it’s a kind of self-sacrifice.”
On Oct. 10, crane operator Anatoliy Savchenko, 47, was struck by a drone while driving home from a substation in the Chernihiv region. While he survived that initial strike, a second drone hit after colleagues gathered together to help him. Savchenko and worker Ruslan Deynega, 45, were both killed.
“Nobody thought that this would happen,” said Liudmyla Savchenko, Anatoliy’s widow. “Especially since they were already returning home.”
Energy workers know people depend on them
FOR Oleksandr Adamchuk, a repair and maintenance supervisor for substations in the Kyiv region, his work has become a mission.
“The main thing is that our soldiers hold the front so the Russians don’t come here,” Adamchuk said. We’ll do everything to make sure people don’t freeze this winter.”
Called in the middle of the night, he gathers his team within a half hour and rushes to a dronedamaged substation. Their job is as urgent as that of rescuers, says
Adamchuk, who lived through the Russian occupation of his village early in the war.
“Their heat, comfort and quality of life depend on us.”
Electrical equipment the West provides for repairs is vital, he said.
“They give us the resources to keep repairing. We’ll keep restoring and restoring, no matter if we fixed it yesterday and it’s hit again today. That’s our fate, our mission.”
“There’s no such thing as tiredness,” he added, sitting at home after a long day as his three children swirl around him. His youngest son, born during the war, clings to his arm.
“What tiredness? He has three kids!” his wife, Olena Adamchuk, interjects with a laugh. “He rests at work.”
They both laugh, but they know the risks are real.
“Of course, we understand the danger,” Oleksandr Adamchuk said. His work allows him to be away from substations during air raids, but not every energy worker is that lucky.
‘Light doesn’t come from machines’
THE danger often weighs on workers’ morale, Mykhailo said, but most hide their fear, and they joke and support each other.
Returning after Dmytro’s death was not easy.
“No one chained me here. I could leave anytime,” Mykhailo said. “But if I quit, I lose my specialty—and most likely, I’d have to go to the front line.” He sees no good options.
“It’s scary and hard mentally,” Mykhailo said. “You go to work knowing that maybe (you can be killed …and you just do it through effort and willpower.”
Dmytro began working in energy in 1995. After Russian forces invaded in 2022, he fled his hometown in southern Ukraine after it was occupied. His safety was at risk because he refused to sign a contract with Moscow-installed authorities at the energy facility where he worked. Dmytro’s wife, Tetiana, described him as “reliable, loving, kind and bright” and said he knew the risks with his job.
“I often saw fear in his eyes when he went to work,” she said. That day, as he was leaving, he noted that Russian missiles had entered Ukraine’s airspace, she said. “Light doesn’t come from machines. It comes from people who risk their lives to bring it,” Tetiana said. “If they stop going to work, there will be no gas, no heat, no light.”
have considered themselves the guardians of their environment since they formed in 2021, planting native trees to reduce urban heat and collecting and recycling trash from the river. They face the kind of challenges seen in other townships and poor settlements across South Africa, which is the continent’s most developed economy but also has some of the world’s most dramatic inequality.
An Amnesty International report released this month for the G20 summit said the South African government is failing as many as 5 million people who live in informal settlements without proper housing and services and are impacted by the climate crisis. It said they are often forced
to live in vulnerable, low-lying areas close to rivers.
Floods in June in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province killed more than 100 people. While South Af -
Saudi. . .
Continued from A7
immediately release details of the pact.
Ahead of the visit, the Saudis had signaled they were looking for formal assurances from Trump defining the scope of the US military protection for the kingdom.
“A stronger and more capable alliance will advance the interests of both countries,” Trump said. “And it will serve the highest interest of peace.”
Fighter jets and business deals
ON the eve of Prince Mohammed’s arrival, Trump announced he had agreed to sell
rican President Cyril Ramaphosa said they were exacerbated by climate change, local officials said they were made deadlier due to poor housing and broken-down
the Saudis F-35 fighter jets despite some concerns within the administration that the sale could lead to China gaining access to the US technology behind the advanced weapon system. The White House announced the two leaders formalized the F-35 agreement Tuesday as well as a deal for the Saudis to purchase nearly 300 tanks from the US.
They also signed agreements signifying closer cooperation on capital markets and critical minerals markets, as well as efforts against money laundering and terrorist financing.
Trump’s announcement on the fighter jets was surprising because some in the Republican administration have been wary about upsetting Israel’s qualitative military
infrastructure in one of the country’s poorest regions.
Green growth
NTOMBI MAPONYA is one of
edge over its neighbors, especially at a time when Trump is depending on Israeli support for the success of his Gaza peace plan.
Abraham Accord talks THE visit comes at a moment when Trump is trying to nudge the Saudis toward normalizing relations with Israel.
The president in his first term had helped forge commercial and diplomatic ties between Israel and Bahrain, Morocco and the United Arab Emirates through an effort dubbed the Abraham Accords.
Trump sees expansion of the accords as essential to his broader efforts to build stability in the Middle East after the twoyear Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Getting
around 3,000 people working with the Alexandra Water Warriors or other local projects who are rewarded with a small monthly stipend from a private-public collection of donors that includes the South African and Canadian governments.
“When the 25th of every month comes around, you begin to smile,” she said. The effort launched in 2022 has grown from 250 people.
Climate resilience should be seen as a strategy to spur development, said Cameroonian economist Vera Songwe, a former executive secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa.
“The good news...is that actually green, sustainable and resilient growth is much faster growth,” she told reporters during an event on the debt crisis ahead of the G20.
Saudi Arabia—the largest Arab economy and the birthplace of Islam—to sign on would spur a domino effect, he argues. But the Saudis have maintained that a path toward Palestinian statehood must first be established before normalizing relations with Israel can be considered. The Israelis remain steadfastly opposed to the creation of a Palestinian state. “We want to be part of the Abraham Accords, but we want also to be sure that we secure a clear path of a two-state solution,” Prince Mohammed said.
and Darlene Superville contributed to this report.
OLEKSANDR ADAMCHUK , 36, a repair and maintenance master for DTEK, second from right, does scheduled repair work on an energy substation with his brigade, from left, Rostyslav Yashchuk, Roman Gerasymchuk, Andriy Korniychuk and Igor Kryvenko, Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, in Kyiv region, Ukraine. AP/JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON
House committee OKs bill creating one-stop OFW reintegration centers
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
in one coordinated facility.
HE House Committee on
Overseas Workers Affairs has approved a bill aimed at creating one-stop reintegration centers for returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their dependents.
Albay Rep. Raymond Adrian Salceda, who authored the House Bill (HB) 50, said this would form a key component of the Magna Carta for OFWs being finalized by the Committee.
Salceda noted that the bill fulfills a long-overdue commitment to Filipino workers abroad.
“This bill is about dignity. The government should already be there as soon as an OFW lands in the country. Reintegration should not be an afterthought. The Balikbayani Center will be our front door for our modern-day heroes, a true One-Stop Shop for all their needs,” he said.
Following the Committee’s approval, the measure now advances in the House legislative process.
Meanwhile, Salceda noted that the Balikbayani Centers will be established in every region, with emergency centers at major ports of entry such as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, and the Davao International Airport.
He added that these centers will co-locate essential agencies, which would allow OFWs to access livelihood aid, skills training, psychosocial services, medical assistance, and emergency support
The agencies included are Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Also included are the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Department of Health (DOH). Salceda said this is the vision of a unified One-Stop Shop for returning OFWs.
He added that the measure is low-cost and consistent with the government’s rightsizing efforts.
“There’s no new bureaucracy here. It simply brings existing services together in one place,” Salceda said.
“The solution is very cheap; all that’s needed is coordination. Even before this becomes law, the DMW can already start implementing it,” he added.
Once implemented, Salceda said the Balikbayani Centers will draw from existing budgets of participating agencies. This includes the OWWA Trust Fund, the special purpose funds of DMW, DSWD, and DOLE, along with the President’s socioeconomic projects fund, if applicable.
“Every OFW deserves a homecoming that is organized, dignified, and compassionate. By integrating the Balikbayani Center Act into the Magna Carta for OFWs, we make that promise real,” Salceda said.
SPIMS program brings 10,000
OFWs back to teaching in PHL
SINCE its launch over a decade ago, the Sa Pinas, Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir (SPIMS) Program of the government has led to 10,000 former overseas Filipino workers (OFW) to become teachers.
The program was rolled out by the Department of Labor and Employment with the Department of Education in 2014 to encourage OFWs, who are License Examination for Teachers, who are working as teachers or household service workers to return to the country.
Once the beneficiaries of the program pass the necessary requirements, they are given permanent items by the government to help address the labor shortage in public schools.
PCCI optimistic as Cabinet reshuffle aims to restore trust amid corruption allegations
By Andrea San Juan @andreasanjuan
THE business community is hoping the recent reshuffle in key government positions will help renew public trust and generate investor interest amid “serious allegations” of corruption involving government officials.
In a statement on Wednesday, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) President Enunina V. Mangio said PCCI welcomes the appointment of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto as the new
Executive Secretary and Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (SAPIEA) Frederick Go as the new Finance Chief.
“We commend President Marcos for these key selections, which come at a critical time for our economy. Executive Secretary Recto brings a wealth of legislative and policy expertise, while Secretary Go’s strong background in business and investment promotion will be valuable in steering fiscal policy and driving economic growth,” Mangio said.
“The business community looks
forward to working closely with both leaders in advancing reforms that enhance competitiveness, strengthen investor confidence, and generate sustainable opportunities for Filipino enterprises,” she added.
Mangio said that Recto’s “proven track record” in fiscal management and Go’s experience in investment promotion are “encouraging signals” for both domestic and foreign investors, adding that PCCI has maintained a good working relationship with Go, particularly on investment promotion and policy. Not losing sight of what she called
“political instability,” Mangio urged the government to “swiftly address” this and hold those involved in corruption accountable. This, she underscored, is one way of restoring investors trust and confidence in the Philippines. On Monday, the Marcos administration was rocked by a major Cabinet shakeup with the voluntary resignations of Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin and Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman after their respective offices were linked to the flood control project scandal.
DENR’s Lotilla affirms vow to responsible, innovative minerals development vis-a-vis global low-carbon economy transition
SBy Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
ECRETARY Raphael P.M. Lo -
tilla of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) emphasized anew the government’s commitment to responsible and innovative mineral development as the transition to a low-carbon economy accelerates worldwide.
Speaking during the Philippines–Sweden Smart Mining Forum in Baguio City recently, Lotilla highlighted that the Philippines, as a resource-rich country, has both a responsibility and an opportunity to adapt to this shift, ensuring that mineral resources are developed responsibly while contributing to sustainable development.
balance economic growth with environmental stewardship, so that our mining sector contributes to a sustainable future,” Lotilla said.
“We recognize that the future of mining must be innovation-led and sustainabilityanchored. We cannot speak of resource development without also speaking of climate change, equity, resilience, and governance. Technology, when applied wisely, is key to achieving this balance,” he added.
The forum marked the launch of the Philippine-Sweden Pilot Project in collaboration with a local mining company that integrates advanced, sustainable mining technologies.
The DENR chief reaffirmed the administration’s support for a modernized and responsible mining sector, citing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s message that the government upholds the environmental, economic, and social aspects of sustainable development as it applies to the mining sector.
Through the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, the DENR has implemented reforms such as DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 202517, which streamlines permitting processes, and DAO 2025-10, which aligns Social Development and Management Programs with the Sustainable Development Goals. These initiatives aim to modernize the Philippines’ minerals sector governance.
The Secretary also commended several mining companies for fostering the big brother-small brother cooperation, which helps smaller mining operations achieve compliance and meet environmental standards. He further expressed gratitude for the mining sector’s support during calamities, which has helped communities recover from natural disasters.
“Over the years, SPIMS has enabled more than 10,000 OFWs to return to their vocation and teach in various public schools in the country,” DMW said.
The agency said it hopes more OFWs will come back to the country as teachers through the SPIMS program.
In another development, DMW has assisted the family of a OFW, who died in Cyprus to claim the insurance benefits of their deceased loved one.
It was formally turned over to the OFW’s children through their mother, as well as to the OFW’s father at the DMW Office in Pampanga on 18 November 2025.
Samuel P. Medenilla
The implementation of the program was transferred to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), which reported SPIMS beneficiaries had now breached the 10,000 mark as of 17 November 2025.
Angara says PBBM prioritizes education, disaster readiness, and youth development
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3
EDUCATION Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara on Wednesday said that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed that education remains the administration’s central agenda, focusing on learners’ welfare, disaster readiness, and youth development. Angara said that Marcos has ordered to accelerate relief efforts, reassess damaged infrastructure, and provide psychosocial support for affected families, especially children who have experienced trauma. Marcos gave the directive during a briefing at CararayanNaga Elementary School in Tiwi, Albay on Tuesday. Meanwhile, DepEd said that learning kits were distributed to evacuation centers to ensure continuity of education while communities recover. A total of 149 EduKahon kits were given to the learners. Mandato natin sa DepEd na tiyakin na tiyakin na ligtas ang ating mga mag-aaral, at nabibigay ang kanilang mga kinakailangan, lalo sa panahon ng sakuna ,” Angara said. Angara stressed that the President’s emphasis on the welfare of children and the continuity of education reinforces their work on the ground.
He noted the global transition to a low-carbon economy and the rising demand for critical minerals are essential to renewable energy, battery technologies, and green infrastructure, which requires striking a balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship.
“The challenge before us is to
THE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), through the Bureau of Agrarian Legal Assistance (BALA), brought its Agrarian Justice on Wheels (ARJOW) and Gender and Development (GAD) Caravan to Davao del Sur for a two-day, delivering free legal support and gender-responsive services directly to agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) at the Sta. Cruz Gym in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.
The Mindanao rollout further advanced DAR’s mission to make agrarian justice more accessible in rural communities.
The DAR said ARJOW and GAD caravans have recently concluded their Luzon and Visayas legs, hold-
SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go on Monday, November 17, asked fellow legislators during the plenary deliberation for the budget of the Department of Health (DOH) to include in its allocation an additional P1.4 Billion to finally fully pay the remaining unpaid health emergency allowance (HEA) of health workers who served during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Go, as one of the authors and cosponsors of Republic Act 11712, or the Public Health Emergency Benefits and Allowances for Health Care Workers Act, previously presided over numerous Senate
The project aims to showcase how technology, sustainability, and global collaboration can improve the efficiency, safety, and environmental responsibility of mining operations in the country.
Lotilla said the Department looks to international models, such as Sweden’s Kiruna iron ore operations, widely recognized as one of the world’s largest and most advanced underground mining sites.
ing the same activities in Nueva Ecija and Bohol, respectively.
For two days, lawyers from BALA, DAR Regional Office XI, and DARPO Davao del Sur provided onsite consultations on tenancy issues, land rights, and other agrarian concerns. Mediation and legal counselling sessions helped fast-track dispute resolution and guided ARBs on appropriate legal remedies.
The GAD Caravan offered a safe and gender-sensitive platform for women ARBs.
Through an open forum led by the Women’s Desk, participants raised issues affecting women in agrarian communities. DAR also distributed information materials on agrarian laws, legal services,
The Department is also advancing the development of a national geospatial database for resource mapping and expanding the use of automation and remote sensing technologies to enhance transparency and compliance.
Health Committee hearings, where he asked the DOH and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to find ways to settle the pending HEA due to health workers for services rendered during the pandemic.
“Through our hearings in the Committee on Health, we were able to press DOH and the DBM to release funding for the HEA of our healthcare workers who served during the pandemic. Around P27 billion was released by the DBM to the DOH last year.
At para sa taong ito, nag-release naman ng P6.7 billion para sa appeals o mga unpaid HEA,” Go proudly said. Go, however, mentioned the remaining
Despite these advancements, Lotilla acknowledged the ongoing challenge of building broader support for the value of responsible mining. “Strengthening at the local government level the support for responsible mining and giving our people a chance at developing these resources to attain a better life for all,” he stated.
and gender programs to improve community awareness and support.
BALA Assistant Director Atty. JM Sandino Imperial reaffirmed DAR’s commitment to accessible legal services: “ARJOW reminds our farmers that justice should never be distant. By coming to them—in their own communities—we reaffirm DAR’s commitment to fast, accessible, and responsive agrarian legal assistance.”
The Smart Mining Forum builds on a series of high-level engagements between the Philippines and Sweden this year, including the High-Level Philippine Mining Delegation to Sweden led by the DENR and the courtesy call of Her Excellency, Ambassador of Sweden to the Philippines Anna Ferry. The Philippines-Sweden Mining Working Group also held an inaugural meeting, which brought together key stakeholders to identify potential areas of collaboration.
balance of P1.4 billion: “Ang final amount, ayon sa DOH, ay P8.1
emphasized that addressing these unpaid allowances should take precedence over other programs, as they compensate healthcare workers for services they have already rendered.
DAR said a terminal report documenting cases handled, mediation efforts, and recommendations will further strengthen agrarian legal policies.
ARJOW remains DAR’s flagship mobile legal assistance initiative, bringing on-site hearings, mediation, and legal counselling directly to farmers’ communities. By delivering justice where it is needed most, the program helps farmers save time and resources while ensuring a more efficient and responsive agrarian justice system. Jonathan L. Mayuga
Atty. Rachelle May J. GallegoCortez, Chief of the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Legal Assistance Division (ARBLAD), stressed the value of integrating a gender perspective in legal assistance. “Women in agrarian communities often face unique barriers in asserting their rights. Through the GAD Caravan, we make sure their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed with empathy, expertise, and urgency,” she said.
Celebrating resilience: The growing impact of OFW remittances amid economic challenges
THE recent report from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) revealing that remittances from overseas Filipinos reached $26.03 billion in the first nine months of 2025 is a remarkable testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of our citizens abroad. With cash remittances growing by 3.2 percent compared to the same period last year, there is much to reflect upon regarding the vital role these funds play in the nation’s economy and the lives of countless Filipino families. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “9-mo remittances up by 3.2%, reach $26.03B,” November 18, 2025).
Remittances have long been considered the lifeblood of the Philippine economy. The fact that the United States remains the top source, followed by Singapore and Saudi Arabia, highlights the global footprint of Filipino workers. Remittances not only provide financial support but also foster a sense of connection among families separated by distance. They are instrumental, especially during challenging times, as evidenced by the recent string of natural disasters that have prompted families to reach out for aid from loved ones abroad.
Jeremaiah M. Opiniano, executive director of the Institute for Migration and Development Issues, suggested that a positive outlook is crucial for remittance inflows. The holiday season, marked by the “ber” months, is historically a period of increased remittance activity, as many OFWs send money home for celebrations and family gatherings. However, it is important to note that this optimism must be tempered with caution. The Philippines has yet to return to the robust growth rates of over 3.5 percent witnessed in late 2022 and early 2023. This suggests that while remittances are currently strong, they are not without their challenges.
The recent slight depreciation of the peso may have offered some relief in conversion rates for dollars sent back home. However, as Robert Dan Roces of SM Investments Corp. noted, it was only a modest lift—not a major factor. The Philippine economy faces broader challenges, including inflationary pressures and political uncertainties, which could dampen consumer sentiment. Such volatility underscores the need for diversified economic strategies that extend beyond mere reliance on remittances.
The insights from the BSP’s recent Consumer Expectations Survey reveal a shift in spending habits among OFW families, with more setting aside portions of their income for savings and investments. This is a promising sign. However, it raises the urgent question of how the government and economic managers can bolster support for this population. As Opiniano cautions, the heavy reliance on overseas employment exposes vulnerabilities whenever there are fluctuations in remittance inflows.
The billions sent home are a testament to Filipino sacrifice and love. They provide immediate relief and fuel consumption. But they are not a substitute for a robust, self-sufficient national economy built on opportunities available right here. Celebrating the remittance record is understandable, but it must be tempered with the urgent realization that true national strength lies in building a Philippines where working abroad is a choice, not a necessity. Let this inflow be the capital that funds our transition towards that future, not just a temporary salve masking deeper economic wounds.
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John Mangun
OUTSIDE THE BOX
WO brothers, two offerings, one murder. Cain and Abel. If you want to better understand the world, forget the textbooks. Just read Genesis 4. Since then, every war, election, and social-media meltdown has been a remix of that scene. That human conflict did not start over territory, ideology, or money. It started with the instinct to divide the world into “My Side” and “The Wrong Side.”
Humanity has been refining that formula ever since, adding democracy, empires, social media, a 24-hour news cycle and the Internet did not help much.
The world has always been bipolar—split not just by wealth or power, but by the deeper instinct to divide humanity into “us” and “them.” We have been swinging that club ever since, from activists to revolutionaries, from party loyalists to hashtag warriors. Civilization simply gave us fancier tools and better costumes for the same old drama.
This “I am good, you are evil” reflex runs through every age. Ancient societies drew sharp lines. The Athenian democracy that modern thinkers admire was built on the exclusion of any “undesirable” voice.
Rome carried that logic to perfection—freedom for some, secondclass for others. Every empire since, from Britain to Spain to modern corporate empires, has operated on that basic two-tier system.
Religion gave the divide divine legitimacy. The Christian Crusades reacting against the Islamic Fatimid Caliphate and Seljuk Turks conquests turned “my faith versus yours” into a blood-soaked campaign of righteousness on both sides. In modern times, sectarian conflict still dresses up as a moral struggle.
Like any market, morality runs on perception and demand. Outrage is the new currency, and everyone is spending it like there is no tomorrow. The more noise we make about being right, the less value truth holds. We inflate virtue until it is worthless,
If you want to better understand the world, forget the textbooks. Just read Genesis 4. Since then, every war, election, and socialmedia meltdown has been a remix of that scene. That human conflict did not start over territory, ideology, or money. It started with the instinct to divide the world into “My Side” and “The Wrong Side.”
then wonder why integrity no longer buys much. Just like a bad economy, when everyone is selling righteousness and no one is producing responsibility, collapse is not a question of if, only when.
Economically, the bipolar pattern is just as clear. From medieval lords to the Industrial Revolution through Marxism and “free markets,” progress was promised for all. But what was delivered was new forms of division.
Every new system promised unity while institutionalizing division, and each claimed moral authority and superiority for its hierarchy.
The pattern deepened. World War I split nations into blocs, and World War II rearranged them—Italy changed sides, Japan turned from partner to enemy, and the Soviet Union rose as an unexpected ally. The Cold War then globalized this binary thinking—capitalism versus com-
munism, freedom versus tyranny, Nato versus the Warsaw Pact. Coke versus Vodka.
Each side cast itself as the guardian of virtue and the other as the face of depravity.When the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, new divisions emerged: globalists versus nationalists, progressives versus traditionalists, urban versus rural across the world. The underlying psychology remained constant. People still sort themselves into opposing camps, each convinced of its own virtue.
Disagreement is necessary for functioning societies. The danger is when disagreement becomes identity, when policy preferences transform into moral crusades, when any compromise feels like treachery.Consider the Philippines. Spain formalized new dividing lines—friars and “ilustrados” above, “indios” below. Centuries later, the social order still looks colonial. The farmer in Nueva Ecija and the call-center agent in Cebu are too busy surviving to care which camp is holier. They just want a government that works and a life with dignity.
Perhaps the lesson of Cain and Abel is not that one was right and the other wrong. Cain mistook his rejection for injustice. Abel mistook his acceptance for virtue. Cain turned his hurt into righteousness, and righteousness into violence. Humanity has been replaying that
See “Mangun,” A11
AI stock rally to overcome bubble concerns, Fidelity says
By Youkyung Lee & Sangmi Cha
AI developers’ ambitious spending plans and rapid user adoption indicate the global rally in their stocks will persist despite bubble concerns, according to Fidelity International.
The recent downturn in global semiconductor stocks, ahead of Nvidia Corp.’s closely watched earnings later this week, is likely temporary, according to Joseph Zhang, portfolio manager at Fidelity International. Unless AI capital spending or usage slows, he expects a rebound following such a correction.
“It’s still in the early stage of the party,” said Zhang, who co-manages over $10 billion of assets at Fidelity. “It will be wrong to jump off the party too early.”
The view reflects staunch optimism among a group of investors, even as concerns over stretched valuations spurred a selloff among prominent artificial intelligence stocks. Bulls see the boom as a once - i n-a- generation tech revolution, making it harder to dismiss
as just another stock trend. Heavyweight commitments such as Jeff Bezos’ new AI venture are also helping.
AI capabilities
HARTWIG KOS, head of growth multi-asset at Allianz Global Investors, shares the view. Few have a clear grasp of AI’s potential and investors don’t yet understand all its capabilities, he said, adding that it’s too early to “proclaim it a bubble.”
For those who shrug off AI bubble concerns, signs of a genuine slowdown—such as weaker capex, lower utilization or a tech breakthrough reducing demand for data centers and chips—haven’t emerged yet. Earnings at AI-related firms and memory chip prices continue to climb, and rising criticism of “circu-
The global AI bellwether now trades at 29 times 12-month forward earnings. But its valuation looks “reasonable” given robust growth, and its key Asian suppliers, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. and Samsung Electronics Co. are even cheaper, Zhang said.
lar investment” among AI companies overlooks the view that the AI revolution requires collaboration to build a new ecosystem, according to Fidelity’s Zhang. “Over the medium term, we are quite positive on overall tech and AI cycles,” he said.
Still, if stock losses further pile up, such confidence will be tested. After six months of gains, US-listed semiconductor stocks saw profit taking in November. A US chip gauge has dropped 9.4 percent this month, on track for its worst showing since March, while a Bloomberg index of Asian peers also fell more than 7 percent.
“I think with AI, overall we are probably getting a little bit too over-exuberant about it,” said Mark Boulton, lead portfolio manager at Pictet Asset Management. “We will probably be disappointed and have to reset when that happens.”
Another manager at Pictet also said his once-maximum bullishness on Asian semiconductor names has faded. “We were massively overweight,” said Young Jae Lee, senior investment manager at Pictet. “Back then, I could see over 50 percent upside for all those mega cap AI semi names. Our team’s conviction on AI compared to back then can’t be the same because now I have less upside for the same stocks.”
Buying protection SIGNS reminiscent of the dot-com bust have begun to surface, and staying bullish on AI means looking past such flashing warnings. The so-called “Magnificent Seven”—a group of US tech giants including Nvidia, Microsoft Corp. and Apple See “AI,” A11
Stocks stabilize after $1.6 trillion global rout
By Anand Krishnamoorthy & Winnie Hsu
ASIAN stocks edged up as investors weighed the fallout from the recent selloff, with traders watching whether markets can stabilize after about $1.6 trillion was wiped off global equities on Tuesday.
The MSCI Asia Pacific share index
climbed 0.2 percent following three days of losses. The bounce came after the Bloomberg World Exchange Market Capitalization Index trimmed its overall market valuation to $144.7 trillion. Futures contracts for US stocks edged up 0.2 percent after the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq 100 indexes declined.
Bitcoin steadied to trade around $92,500 after a brief slide below $90,000 Tuesday amid a selloff in risk assets.
A slide in the world’s biggest tech firms dragged a global stock index to a one-month low Tuesday, as Wall Street questions frothy valuations and whether AI spending is delivering meaningful returns. The focus now turns to Nvidia Corp., whose earnings on Wednesday will test sentiment at the heart of the AI boom and may set the next direction for markets after the rally since April.
“Investors are still nervous,” said Vey-Sern Ling, a managing director at Union Bancaire Privee. “Valuations are high, US jobs and Fed rates still uncertain, entering the yearend with gains, so most people want to take risk off.”
The S&P 500 Index is down more than 3 percent this month. Volatility has roared back. Wall Street’s socalled fear gauge, the Cboe Volatility Index, topped 24—above the key 20 level that causes concern for traders— and reached its highest in a month.
Turmoil in global markets in recent days resembles a “healthy correction” as investors grapple with how to assess elements of technological change, said Bob Diamond, the former chief executive officer of Barclays Plc who now runs investment firm Atlas Merchant Capital.
“We’ve seen risk assets be repriced,” he said. “In my sense, this is a healthy correction, not something that’s turning into a bear market.”
Another major focus for investors is whether the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates next month.
Traders have less conviction about another reduction in borrowing costs, with swaps now implying a less-than-50 percent likelihood of a December move. Several policymakers have recently cautioned against one, citing the risk of inflation, although Fed Governor Christopher Waller repeated his view in favor of
Mangun
continued from A10
The S&P 500 Index is down more than 3 percent this month. Volatility has roared back. Wall Street’s so-called fear gauge, the Cboe Volatility Index, topped 24—above the key 20 level that causes concern for traders—and reached its highest in a month.
lowering rates.
Treasuries were little changed Wednesday with the 10-year yield holding at 4.12 percent after sliding three basis points Tuesday.
Jobless claims totaled 232,000 in the week ended October 18, according to the Labor Department website showing historical data for claims. Companies shed 2,500 jobs per week on average in the four weeks ended November 1, according to ADP Research.
The September US jobs report is scheduled to be released on Thursday after a lengthy delay.
The ADP snapshot of the labor market has helped bridge the gap with official employment data delayed by the longest government shutdown in history. While funding to official statistics agencies has been restored, it’s still unclear when October economic data will be issued.
Back to Nvidia, the company has grown larger than the energy, materials, and real estate sectors combined and depending on the day, it even exceeds the combined weight including the utilities sector, according to Ryan Grabinski at Strategas. It’s also bigger than the entire industrials sector.
“The outcome is likely to send ripple effects through both US and international markets,” Grabinski said. “Although expectations for AI more broadly have cooled in recent weeks, this report has the potential to shift sentiment back to optimism. That said, the bar is undeniably high right now.”
In commodities, oil rose as traders weighed a report showing rising US stockpiles against concerns about the fallout from sanctions on Russia.
Elsewhere, China sold €4 billion ($4.6 billion) of euro-denominated bonds, drawing record demand in the latest sign of growing investor appetite for the country’s debt sales. Bloomberg
US warned others to avoid loans from Chinese state banks, but it’s the biggest recipient of all
By Didi Tang And Bernard Condon | The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—For years, Washington has been warning others not to trust loans from Chinese state banks fueling its rise as a superpower. But a new report reveals an ironic twist: The United States is the biggest recipient of all—by far. And the security and technology implications have yet to be fully understood.
China’s state lenders have funneled $200 billion into US businesses for a quarter of a century, but many of the loans have been kept secret because the money was first routed through shell companies in the Cayman Islands, Bermuda, Delaware and elsewhere that helped obscure their origins, according to AidData, a research lab at the College of William & Mary in Virginia.
More alarming, much of the lending was to help Chinese companies buy stakes in US businesses, many tied to critical technology and national security, including a robotics maker, a semiconductor company and a biotech firm.
The report found a far more widespread and sophisticated lending network than previously thought—a web of financial obligations extending beyond developing countries to rich ones, including the UK, Germany, Australia, the Netherlands and other US allies.
“China was playing chess while the rest of us were playing checkers,” said former White House investment adviser William Henagan, who worries the hidden lending has given China a chokehold on technologies. “Wars will be won or lost based on whether you can control products critical to running an economy.”
China money gets a closer look WHILE the US still welcomes most foreign investment—and President Donald Trump has courted it—money from China has drawn particular scrutiny as the world’s two biggest economies with opposing ideologies battle for global supremacy.
Deals financed by China’s stateowned banks, the ones studied in the AidData report, are especially problematic. The lenders are controlled by China’s central government and the Communist Party’s Central Financial Commission, and they are directed to advance China’s strategic goals.
In total, the AidData report found China lent more than $2 trillion from 2000 through 2023 around
the world, double the highest previous estimates and a surprise to even longtime analysts of China’s rise. And much of the lending to wealthy countries was focused on critical minerals and high-tech assets—rare earths and semiconductors needed for fighter jets, submarines, radar systems, precision-guided missiles and telecom networks.
“The US, under both [former President Joe] Biden and Trump, have been beating this drum for more than a decade that Beijing is a predatory lender,” said Brad Parks, executive director of AidData. “The irony is very rich.”
Shell games
UNTIL now, a full accounting of China’s state lending has never been published because much of the financing is buried beneath layers of secrecy, masked by Western-sounding shell companies and mislabeled by international databases as ordinary private financing.
“There is a complete lack of transparency that speaks to the lengths to which China goes, whether through shell companies or confidentiality agreements or redactions, to make it extremely difficult to come up with this full picture,” said Scott Nathan, the former head of the US International Development Finance Corp., an agency set up in the first Trump term to invest in foreign projects deemed in the US national interest.
Since the report’s last documented loan in 2023, US scrutiny has gotten better. Screening mechanisms, such as the interagency Committee on Foreign Investment in the US, got beefed up in 2020 to protect sensitive sectors in the economy.
But China has gotten better, too, in part by setting up banks and branches overseas—more than 100 in recent years—that then lend to offshore entities, further clouding the origins of the money.
“In places where there are more cops on the beat,” Parks said, “it has found ways to work around barriers
China’s state lenders have funneled $200 billion into US businesses for a quarter of a century, but many of the loans have been kept secret because the money was first routed through shell companies in the Cayman Islands, Bermuda, Delaware and elsewhere that helped obscure their origins, according to AidData, a research lab at the College of William & Mary in Virginia.
Where the loans ended up
CHINESE state bank financing has touched projects across the US, particularly in the Northeast, the Great Lakes region, the West Coast and along the Gulf of Mexico, which Trump has renamed the Gulf of America. Many loans targeted critical high-tech industries, according to the report.
n In 2015, for instance, Chinese state-owned banks lent $1.2 billion to a private Chinese business to buy an 80 percent stake in Ironshore, a US insurer whose clients included the Central Intelligence Agency and Federal Bureau of Investigation officials and undercover agents who might need help paying legal bills in case they got into trouble in their jobs.
US regulators were unaware of the Chinese government involvement because the financing was funneled through a Cayman Island business with no obvious ties to China, according to the report. US officials later realized the Chinese government could access information and ordered the Chinese buyer to divest.
n That same year, the Chinese government published “Made in China 2025,” a list of 10 high-tech areas, such as semiconductors, biotechnology and robotics, where it wanted to reach 70 percent self-sufficiency within a decade. The next year, in 2016, the Export–Import Bank of China, a policy bank, provided $150 million in loans to help a Chinese company buy a robotics equipment company in Michigan.
After China’s adoption of the manufacturing master plan, the percentage of projects targeting sensitive sectors such as robotics,
Tense Japan-China talks stoke concerns over economic fallout
AN opening attempt to cool tensions between China and Japan appears to have fallen flat, signaling that the diplomatic spat is likely to drag on and stoking concerns about further strain in economic ties.
Until societies learn to ask these questions, the pattern will continue. Two sides, each claiming moral superiority, each blind to its own capacity for both good and harm. Somewhere, one brother is still asking: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” The answer remains the same. Yes. You are.
E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.
confusion ever since. The Left and the Right, the rich and the poor, the isolationist and the internationalist—all certain that their sacrifice smells sweeter to heaven. The path forward requires asking different questions. Not who is righteous but who is responsible and to whom. Not which side deserves to win, but what outcomes would benefit the most people. Not whose sacrifice smells sweeter to heaven, but whose policies actually work.
AI. . . continued from A10
Inc.—account for much of the S&P 500’s gains. As of earlier this month, Nvidia alone was valued higher than the combined value of the entire stock markets of Italy, Spain, the UAE and the Netherlands. In Asia, investing in the sector may demand even greater faith in the technology to offset the region’s unique macro headwinds, ranging from trade tensions to China’s wobbly economy.
Liu Jinsong, director-general of the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s Asian Affairs Department, said he was “dissatisfied” with the outcome of his meeting with Japanese diplomat Masaaki Kanai on Tuesday, according to a report by Chinese news outlet The Paper.
Relations between the two neighbors have soured recently after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi became the first sitting Japanese leader in decades to publicly link a Taiwan Strait crisis with the possible deployment of Japanese troops. Her remarks drew swift retaliation from Beijing, which warned of more to come.
two sides suggests the dispute shows little sign of easing. Beijing has warned Chinese citizens against traveling to Japan—a move that has already led at least two state-owned travel agencies to scrap group tours booked months in advance, according to people familiar with the matter. The travel warning triggered a sharp selloff in Japan’s biggest tourism and retail stocks before they recovered some of their losses.
Relations between the two neighbors have soured recently after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi became the first sitting Japanese leader in decades to publicly link a Taiwan Strait crisis with the possible deployment of Japanese troops. Her remarks drew swift retaliation from Beijing, which warned of more to come. to entry.”
“we cannot dismiss the possibility that this matter could lead to a new supply insecurity for rare earths,” adding that “as business entities we will request appropriate action.”
defense, quantum computing and biotechnology rose from 46 percent to 88 percent of China’s portfolio for cross-border acquisition lending, according to AidData. n In 2017, a Delaware private equity firm using a Cayman Islands company tried to buy a US chip maker; the deal was blocked when investigators discovered both companies were owned by a Chinese state-owned enterprise. That same Delaware company successfully bought a UK semiconductor maker that had to be divested when British authorities found out. n And in 2022, the UK forced a Chinese company to divest another sensitive British firm in the industry, a designer of chips in Apple phones but potentially adaptable for military systems. The Chinese company had bought it through a company in the Netherlands that they owned. That Dutch firm is now accused of withholding semiconductors vital to automakers in the US-China trade war.
Following the money TO trace China’s hidden lending, AidData dug through regulatory filings, private contracts and stock exchange disclosures in more than 200 countries written in multiple languages.
The effort to track China’s state loans and investment started more than a decade ago when Beijing launched its Belt & Road Initiative to build infrastructure in developing countries. The project expanded sharply three years ago when the AidData team, which eventually grew to 140 researchers, realized many of the loans were landing in advanced economies such as the US, Australia, the Netherlands and Portugal, where acquisitions could allow it to access technology that Beijing considers essential to its global rise.
The report says the findings show a shift in the use of state credit from promoting economic development and social welfare to gaining geoeconomic advantages.
“There’s global concern that this is part of a concerted effort to gain control over economic chokepoints and use this leverage,” said Brad Setser, an adviser to the US Trade Representative in the Biden administration. “It’s important that we understand what they’re doing, and they don’t make it easy.” Condon reported from New York
comments were an “attempt to revive militarism that tramples on international justice.”
She added that Beijing wanted Japan to immediately stop interfering in China’s internal affairs and stop provocations and transgressions.
Still, Zhang attributes some of the recent selling to hedging activities ahead of Nvidia’s earnings. Investors likely bought put options for protection, and that may be weighing on the market, he said. If Nvidia’s results hold up, investors will “close out of hedges and the market will likely rebound,” he predicted.
The global AI bellwether now trades at 29 times 12-month forward earnings. But its valuation looks “reasonable” given robust growth, and its key Asian suppliers, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. and Samsung Electronics Co. are even cheaper, Zhang said. “As long as these fundamentals do not change, some liquidity-driven corrections are generally buying opportunities,” he said. Bloomberg
Japan said Kanai reiterated that the country’s position on Taiwan remains unchanged. Kanai also pushed back against “extremely inappropriate statements” made by Xue Jian, China’s consul general in Osaka, who threatened to cut off Takaichi’s head in a now-deleted post on X. Kanai, who is the director general of the Asian and Oceanian affairs bureau, demanded immediate action against the diplomat.
Economic impacts
THE back-and-forth between the
State-owned firms have advised employees to avoid travel to Japan, with some investment groups, banks, brokerages and other companies sending cautionary messages to staff this week, people familiar with the matter said.
There are concerns that China could use trade as a weapon as it has done in the past during disputes with Japan, Australia, South Korea and others. When Beijing and Tokyo clashed over a territorial dispute more than a decade ago, China temporarily blocked supplies of rare earths.
Japanese industry is concerned that this could happen again, with Foreign Trade Council Chairman Tatsuo Yasunaga saying Wednesday that
China has demanded that Takaichi retract her statement, and state media blasted her comments, saying they “sound a stark warning that Japan’s militarist demons are being summoned anew.”
China’s Ministry of State Security has also weighed in, saying in a social media post that Takaichi was “playing with fire” and threatening unspecified consequences if she didn’t retract her comments. The post also noted that in recent years China had uncovered a number of espionage cases involving Japan and vowed to protect national security, without providing details.
And Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Beijing office that handles Taiwan affairs, said that Takaichi’s
‘Maximalist demand’ “BEIJING is clearly signaling to Tokyo through this exchange that it is not yet ready to let the fire die out or to let cooler heads prevail,” said Jeremy Chan, a senior Eurasia Group analyst and former US diplomat. “It has also only reiterated its maximalist demand that Takaichi fully retract her statement, which she cannot do. This leaves no immediate off-ramp for de-escalation.”
The optics around the meeting also drew attention. Chinese state media cited scholars who said Kanai’s midlevel rank suggested Japan wasn’t sincere about ending the dispute, while Liu’s attire sparked speculation that it carried symbolic meaning.
A social media account run by China’s state broadcaster identified Liu’s tunic-style suit as similar to those worn by student protesters during the 1919 May Fourth Movement, an uprising that mobilized young people against the transfer of Chinese territory to Japan and spurred a boycott of Japanese goods. With assistance from Alan Wong, Nectar Gan, Jing Li, Catherine Wong and Yusuke Maekawa/Bloomberg
Thursday, November 20, 2025
WITH DEEPENING INEQUALITY, GROUPS PUSHES WEALTH TAX
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
WITH deepening economic, health and education in-
equalities, the Philippines
should overhaul its tax system to make the country’s wealthiest pay more, according to a study by Oxfam Pilipinas and Action for Economic Reforms (AER).
In their study titled “Inequality at a Breaking Point: A Call to Embed Equality in the Philippines’ Economic Agenda,” economic constraints, malnutrition and underinvestment in education drive inequality in the Philippines.
The Philippines also remains one of the most unequal economies in Asean, with a Gini index of 40.7 in 2021, and significant disparities in wealth and income distribution, the study said.
“While high growth has contributed to poverty reduction in East Asia, the Philippine experience highlights that growth alone is insufficient without equitable access to opportunities and strong redistributive policies,” AER Executive Director Filomeno Sta. Ana III said.
As recommended in the study, progressive taxation targeting income, assets and wealth is the “most effective” in achieving equity.
Although income taxation in the Philippines is theoretically progressive, the study said making progressive taxation truly effective depends on the government’s ability to obtain full information, particularly from the self-employed and other hard-totax groups.
“Collecting the right taxes on assets and wealth is difficult to do, especially when State capacity is weak. It does not help that the Philippines has a very strict law on the confidentiality of bank accounts and deposits,” the study said.
“Relying solely on income and wealth taxes to generate the huge resources necessary for sustainable development is inadequate,” it added.
Despite revenues generated from indirect taxation being substantial, the report said indirect taxation on the consumption of goods and services is regressive, with the tax burden mainly falling on the lowerincome groups.
“To ensure progressivity, tax revenues should fund public goods that primarily benefit the poor,” the report added.
Apart from progressive taxation, the report recommended pursuing transformative reforms for sustainable and inclusive growth, such as transparency and accountability in public funds and projects.
The government should also invest in education and training, as well as the full implementation of the Universal Healthcare Law, with a focus on primary healthcare.
Oxfam Pilipinas Executive Director Lot Felizco said addressing multidimensional inequality should be a priority for the government and all institutions.
“We need to reorient policymaking and programs to address inequality in all its forms: promote not just economic growth but pillars of sustainable development, such as health and education,” Felizco said.
BusinessMirror
‘NEET’ youth still rising, prompting ADB’s red flag
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THErising share of young people who are neither working nor studying—also tagged ‘NEET’— poses a significant risk to labor markets in Asia and the Pacific, with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) warning governments to act faster in detecting and reintegrating disconnected youth.
ADB senior labor economist Mohammed Faiz Hamid said NEET trends can shift quickly even when unemployment appears stable, making it necessary to monitor youth disengagement with the same frequency as other core labor indicators.
“If you only look at the unemployment rate, things may look okay, but when we look at need and job quality together, the story becomes much more worrying,” Hamid said in a recent forum.
“If we don’t measure and inter -
vene quickly in time, today’s NEET youth can become tomorrow’s completely disengaged adults from the entire productive economy,” he added.
The economist noted that interventions must prioritize immediate and realistic pathways back into the labor market.
These can include short joblinked courses, apprenticeships, traineeships, remote internships, or subsidized positions in small and medium enterprises—firms that continue to absorb most young
Tcities count 218,866 people on bikes
HE 2025 edition of Bilang Siklista, the country’s
Pasig (10,410). In the Visayas, Mandaue led with 6,753 cyclists, followed by Iloilo City with 4,716. In Mindanao, Davao City recorded the highest volume with 3,506 cyclists.
“The 218,000 people-on-bicycles counted represent only a fraction of people moved by bicycles, many of whom remain exposed to unsafe road conditions. Continued investment and urgent action are needed to protect people who rely daily on their bicycles, especially persons with disabilities, women, the elderly, and children who can move around safely and comfortably. This is our timely call as we will observe the UN Decade of Sustainable Transport starting next year. Governments, private sector need to prioritize movement of people that is safe, affordable and interconnected.” said Aldrin Pelicano of MNL Moves.
Despite these achievements, the 2025 data highlights persistent challenges. Only 2.75 percent of observed cyclists were women, a further decline from previous years. In contrast, cities such as Tagbilaran (32 percent), Danao (29 percent), and Naga (16 percent) reported higher female participation. In the case of Naga and Danao, the higher shares were partly due to the inclusion of pedicab passengers counted alongside cyclists. National trends also point to significant shifts in cycling activity. Across comparable count sites, cyclist numbers decreased by an average of 26 percent. The decline in volumes coincided with periods of heavy rainfall in Baguio, Naga, Quezon City, and Iloilo, illustrating how weather disruptions affect the count.
workers in Asia.
“Interventions need to happen very quickly and we don’t need a perfect plan for their whole life. We just need one solid step back in,” Hamid said.
He added that youth transition outcomes are shaped by a broad set of policies—transport, digital connectivity, education, housing, and social protection—requiring tighter coordination across government agencies per country.
Youth employment systems, he said, function more effectively when schools, training providers and employers operate under a unified framework.
Data from the International Labour Organization (ILO) showed that one in five people aged 15 to 24 worldwide remain NEET.
The gender imbalance remains stark: around 175 million young women are NEET, compared to 87 million young men, making women more than twice as likely to be disconnected from both work and learning.
The gap is even wider in Asia and the Pacific, where women are 2.5 to 3 times more likely to be NEET.
ILO senior research specialist
Niall O’Higgins earlier noted that NEET reveals forms of vulnerability not captured by unemployment figures.
“Simply stated, if a young person is not working and they are not studying or in training, then they are NEET,” he said. He added that NEET includes discouraged young people “who would like to work but have given up looking for work because they believe there are no jobs available.”
O’Higgins also warned that many NEET youth—particularly young women—face barriers that extend beyond job search, such as safety constraints, mobility issues and unpaid care responsibilities.
“If you are NEET, then you are not in one of two positive states... You are not employed… and you are not in education and so are not developing the potential to contribute to the economy and society in the future,” he said.
In the Philippines, the latest Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data show that around 3.21 million Filipino youth were NEET as of July 2025, consisting of 1.02 million unemployed NEET
Compendium to guide PHL water research priorities, DOST says
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio @blessogerio
LAOAG CITY—The science agency’s newly launched Water Compendium is expected to help shape water-related research priorities by showing national and local officials the range of homegrown technologies already available, per the department.
Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said the compendium pulls together work from the agency and its partner universities and is meant to highlight capacities that can support studies on water issues “at various levels, national and local.”
“My observation is that most would really look outside of the Philippines for technologies, but with the use of the compendium, we will showcase that being Filipino can be successful in the Philippines,” he told reporters on the sidelines of the National Science, Technology and Innovation Week (NSTW) press conference on Wednesday afternoon.
The Water Compendium, launched on November 19 as part of the NSTW, consolidates projects, programs, and interventions from 2018 to 2023, covering water sup -
ply, disaster-related risks, agriculture and community-level applications.
The document, per the DOST chief, also outlines examples of technologies that have been deployed in different areas, alongside those newly developed for water supply or risk reduction.
Solidum noted that the compendium aims to show both the technology and the practical use of each intervention, saying, “Sometimes, the technology available is good, but the way things are implemented may not be appropriate.” In his opening speech, he described water systems as “both lifelines and risks,” stressing that shortages or excess water affect food security, livelihoods and industry.
Touching the issue of flood control, he said that while its structures are built to carry specific volumes, extreme rainfall can exceed those limits, underscoring the need for “multiple layers of protection.”
“Let the water continue to be like the water that provides life, the seeds of knowledge in our communities,” he said. “But just like water, we need to make sure that this innovation should flow and influence our systems. Let it nourish partnerships as well.”
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
Companies
BusinessMirror
B1 Thursday, November 20, 2025
First Gen to spend $652M on new hydro power plants
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
FIRST Gen Corp. is beefing up its hydro portfolio with 213 megawatts (MW) of new hydro power projects with an estimated investment of $652 million.
“From our current portfolio of three major hydro facilities…we aim to add four more hydro facilities by 2030, consistent with our target to boost our portfolio to 13 gigawatts (GW) by 2030, 9 GW of which will come from renewable energy,” said First Gen Senior Vice President and FGen hydro unit head Dennis Michael Gonzales during the second day of the 3rd Philippine Hydro Summit and Exhibition.
The Lopez-led firm’s hydro capacity is currently made up of 132-MW Pantabangan-Masiway,
hydroelectric power plant, the newly-acquired 165-MW Casecnan hydroelectric power plant, and the 1.6-MW Agusan minihydro power plant. The hydro power projects in the pipeline, meanwhile, are the 100MW Aya pumped-storage hydro, 42-MW Puyo Run-of-River (ROR) hydro, 32MW Bubunawan RoR, and the 39-MW San Isidro ROR.
Gonzales said the Aya project costs $200 million while one MW of ROR is estimated at $4 million. In all, these four hydro power proj -
ects in the pipeline have a combined investment cost of about $652 million.
ROR harnesses natural river currents to spin turbines that create electric currents. However, ROR hydro projects are site specific and only feasible in rivers with relatively consistent flow. Since it is dependent on natural river flows, the output can be compromised especially during hot, dry months.
“I cannot really say we will build all of them next year but what’s very close would be Aya. We had early civil works already and some side development, but we’re still securing the permit from NIA [National Irrigation Administration],” he said.
Hydro has an 8.6 percent share of the total Philippine power generation mix, or 3,836 MW.
“More than any other renewable energy system, ROR projects extend quality power and infrastructure to remote areas of the grid,” added Gonzales.
First Gen’s hydro business boosted its earnings from January to September this year, contributing $23 million in recurring income.
Last week, the company reported a 3-percent increase in attributable recurring net income to $212 million at end-September this year from $205 million in the same period a year ago, mainly due to the strong performance of its hydro and liquefied natural gas (LNG) operations.
The Lopez-led firm presents its financial report in US dollars because most of the business transactions are paid in the US currency.
Revenues from January to September this year stood at $1.79 billion, down 3 percent year-on-year from $1.85 billion. This was brought about lower electricity sales from its 420-MW San Gabriel gas power plant since the deal with its off-taker expired in February 2024. Moreover, its geothermal unit, Energy Development Corp., saw lower revenues due to a reduction in spot market prices.
DigiPlus optimistic of securing SA license
ONLINE gaming firm Di -
giPlus Interactive Corp. on Wednesday said it may conduct a soft launch of its South Africa operation by early 2027.
Andy Tsui told reporters that the company is optimistic of obtaining its license for South Africa, which could take about eight months to secure.
DigiPlus will then leverage on its experience in building its Brazil presence to jumpstart the South African operation.
“We probably will adopt a similar approach (to Brazil). First,
we get the license and then we’ll build a local team there and we also have to conduct market research to better understand what would be the product offering,” Tsui said.
“So, I would say sometime in early 2007 we also will do a soft launch in South Africa.”
DigiPlus formally filed an application for three licenses in South Africa’s Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (WCGRB), a national manufacturer license, bookmaker license, and bookmaker premises license.
This move advances DigiPlus’ entry into one of the most promising regulated online gaming markets globally.
The WCGRB is regarded as the preferred jurisdiction for international operators like DigiPlus due to its transparent regulatory processes and digital readiness.
South Africa’s online gambling sector, valued at over R28.97 billion ($1.6 billion) in 2023 and 2024, is widely regarded as Africa’s flagship market.
Tsui said DigiPlus is monitoring other developing countries with
licensing opportunities, carefully selecting new opportunities though no specific countries to announce at this time.
“We only go for the licensed markets as we’re a listed company. We look for a more like a developing country which has more opportunities.”
The company, Tsui said, is not going into mature markets such as the United Kingdom or the United States as the cost of entry is much higher and it’s a very competitive market.
“So, we carefully selecting those new opportunities.” VG Cabuag
Vincent Co-led Puregold doubles down on grassroots retail, reaffirms sari-sari store advocacy
SARI-SARI stores serve as trusted community institutions across the Philippines. These bridge access gaps in underserved areas, offer small-volume purchasing for budget-conscious households, and often extend credit based on long-standing neighborhood relationships. Their presence sustains hyperlocal economies and forms a vital foundation of the country’s retail ecosystem. As one of the country’s leading retailers, Puregold has long recognized that the strength of this micro-retail sector is closely tied to the strength of the broader retail landscape. The company’s extensive network of sari-sari store partners has been a major contributor
‘MPH must expand hospital network’
By VG Cabuag @villygc
METRO Pacific Health Corp. (MPH), the country’s largest hospital group, led by businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan, would have to keep on expanding its number of hospitals in the country to reach the target price of its private equity owners.
“I’m putting a warning label to my statement that I don’t know what their (KKR) plans are. It’s none of our business. But for them to hit their price target (of selling MPH), you really have to expand.
It doesn’t have many multiples…
If the market says it’s only ‘X’, you cannot tell the market I want ‘Y”? It’s like when a typhoon hits you, you wish you’re supposed to not get affected, right?” Pangilinan said.
KKR, or short for Kohlberg, Kravis Robert, and Government Investment Corp. (GIC), in December 2019 completed its investments in MPH, to own some 80 percent of the company. A total of P35.3 billion in investments were placed in the hospital group.
The group has a nationwide network of 27 hospitals, 33 outpatient care centers, 2 allied health colleges and a centralized laboratory across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
It was incorporated in 2007 and acquired Makati Medical Center as its first investment.
Pangilinan, chairman of Met -
PAG -IBIG Fund is offering a one-month payment moratorium and reminding borrowers of their Housing Loan insurance coverage to help members recover from the devastation caused by recent typhoons and earthquakes, officials announced Tuesday, Nov. 18. Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary and Pag-IBIG Fund Board Chairman Jose Ramon P. Aliling said the measures reflect Pag-IBIG Fund’s continuing commitment to provide responsive support to Filipino workers affected by disasters, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to accelerate recovery efforts in calamity-hit areas.
ro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC), said they were hearing that the KKR group is not going to sell their stake unless their price target is met. “The market is open but they’re not listening.” The company has targeted to buy two to three hospitals a year, to keep on expanding, but it halted during the pandemic that started in 2020 through 2023.
“Which for me is sad, because that was the right time to buy it, because it’s going to be cheap. Now they’re back on track, buying two hospitals more or less each year, which is fine.”
KKR, he said, needs to stay a few more years, expand the company and then sell the company at the price they want.
“So, that’s very difficult. I don’t know what they’re going to do eventually. We’re (MPIC) only a 20-percent shareholder. So, they dragged us.”
Chaye Cabal-Revilla, chief finance, risk and sustainability officer of MPIC, said the plan is to continue to acquire hospitals.
Revilla said earlier MPIC already made an offer to acquire an additional 30 percent of the hospital group from KKR.
“We all know that when a PE [private equity] investor comes in, it will not be forever. But MPIC has always been there, especially MVP [Manuel V. Pangilinan], that’s his baby MPH. We’ve started with Makati Med,” Revilla said, referring to Makati Medical Center.
to its growth and nationwide reach.
This understanding is at the core of an initiative championed by Puregold Price Club Inc. President Vincent Co. The Sari-Sari Stories series reflects his advocacy to empower local entrepreneurs who keep grassroots commerce thriving across the country. The project trains the spotlight on the people running these neighborhood staples and recognizes their central role in both community life and national economic activity.
“Puregold’s continued success reflects the unrelenting hard work of our sari-sari store members,” said Vincent. “With Sari-Sari Store Stories, we aim to celebrate them not only as business collaborators, but also as proud Filipino icons. Puregold remains committed to ensuring that the humble tindahan continues
to thrive and remains a meaningful part of every community.”
The company’s strong performance in the third quarter highlights the strategic importance of these partnerships. Long-time sari-sari store owners and neighborhood retailers remain a core driver of Puregold’s sustained growth, relying on the company as a trusted supplier and business ally.
Through the series, Puregold honors these establishments while also reinforcing its commitment to inclusive growth and communitycentered development. The initiative aims to elevate awareness of the critical role sari-sari stores play in sustaining local economies and supporting grassroots commerce.
“Guided by President Marcos’s directive for a whole-of-government response to help those affected by calamities, we are offering Housing Loan borrowers a payment moratorium and insurance coverage for damaged homes under our Housing Loan program, as well as providing all our members with affordable loan options to help them recover and rebuild,” Aliling said. Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Marilene C. Acosta said that the agency’s home loans include built-in insurance that provides protection and helps cover repair costs. She added that they are offering a one-month payment moratorium for Housing Loan borrowers in areas declared under a state of calamity due to typhoons Nando, Opong, Ramil, Tino and Uwan, as well as recent earthquakes in Cebu and Davao.
“We understand that our members need immediate help when disasters strike, and we at Pag-IBIG Fund are always ready to respond,” Acosta said. “Housing Loan borrowers whose homes were damaged can
take comfort in knowing that their homes are insured, and we are reaching out to help them avail of their benefits as soon as possible. We are likewise offering a one-month payment moratorium so they may prioritize the safety and recovery of their families. They may conveniently apply online through Virtual Pag-IBIG.” In addition to the insurance and moratorium, Pag-IBIG Fund is also offering Calamity Loans and Home Improvement Loans at affordable rates.
Under the Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan Program, eligible members residing in areas declared under a state of calamity may borrow up to 90 percent of their total Pag-IBIG Regular Savings at a low interest rate of 5.95 percent per annum, the lowest among comparable programs. The loan is payable for up to three years, with an automatic three-month grace period before the first payment.
Through the Pag-IBIG
after a disaster takes time and resources,” Acosta said. “That is why we are providing multiple ways to help through our payment moratorium for financial relief, our Calamity Loan for immediate needs, the Housing Loan insurance for protection, and our Home
SARI-SARI
tives in the Philippines. Banks play an integral role in facilitating these remittances by providing essential infrastructure, including specialized remittance services designed to enable the transfer of funds across international borders. These services are tailored to meet the unique needs of OFWs and their families, thereby streamlining the remittance process and enhancing its efficiency.
On the other hand, despite challenges like high transfer fees and exchange rates, OFWs continue to send remittances to keep family bonds tight and ensure loved ones are cared for. The digitalization of remittances by Gen Z OFWs is also a significant trend, as they prefer online transactions for convenience and security.
₧8-B Mizuho loan for Globe to fund capex, debt refinance
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
GLOBE Telecom, Inc. has signed a term loan facility worth JPY 20 billion (approximately P8 billion) with Mizuho Bank, Ltd., the telecommunications company said on Wednesday.
The loan will partially finance Globe’s capital expenditures, debt refinancing, and other general corporate requirements.
The facility comes as Globe pur-
By VG Cabuag @villygc
ANULIFE
The spirit of generosity shines brightly in a Filipino family setting, where even in the absence of a parent working thousands of miles away, their sacrifices resonate with love and longing. Through remittances, they provide for their family, embodying resilience and commitment.
Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) remitted over $38.34 billion to the Philippines in 2024, reflecting a 3-percent increase from the $37.21 billion recorded in 2023. This new record, as reported by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), highlights the critical role that OFWs and their remittances play in the Philippine economy.
In December 2024, remittances rose to $3.73 billion, up from $3.62 billion in December 2023. This significant increase, especially during the Christmas season, highlights a peak in funds sent home by OFWs, marking the highest monthly levels since tracking began in 2005.
The BSP reported that remittances from land-based and sea-based workers contributed significantly to the Philippine economy, accounting for 8.3 percent of GDP and 7.4 percent of GNI in 2024. With total remittances reaching $34.49 billion, a 3 percent increase from the previous year, most were sent via formal banking channels. The United States of America, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia were the main sources, with the US being the largest contributor.
Remittances from OFWs serve as a significant demonstration of the immense generosity and resilience exhibited by Filipinos, illustrating the strong familial connections they uphold with their rela-
To every OFW spending Christmas far from home: This is a time filled with joy, yet it can also bring a profound sense of longing. You are not alone in this bittersweet experience. We see the weight of your struggles, and we feel the warmth of your dreams. As the world lights up with festive cheer, let the spirit of love, hope, and gratitude envelop your heart like a cherished embrace.
This Christmas, celebrate the small victories, for they are the building blocks of your journey. Take solace in the knowledge that your sacrifices resonate deeply in the lives of those you hold dear. Each moment you endure far from home only strengthens the bonds of love that tie you to your family.
Maligayang Pasko, kabayan...ang aming makabagong bayani! Hold tightly to hope, for though miles may separate you, your heart beats in unison with those you cherish. Amidst the distance, let the essence of family fill the void. Your unwavering spirit is a gift that transcends borders, igniting the flame of connection no matter how far apart you may be. For more information, visit bmap.org. ph or https://facebook.com/BankMarketingAssociationPH
Judith C. Songlingco is the Head of Corporate Affairs and Brand Marketing at Philippine Business Bank (PBB) and the Secretary of the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP). She can be reached via judith.songlingco@yahoo.com. The writer’s views and her written piece do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror, the PBB and the BMAP.
MInvestment Management and Trust Corp. on Wednesday launched a sector-focused unit investment trust fund that aims to capture opportunities in the semiconductor industry, an industry powering the use of artificial intelligence and next-generation technologies.
The semiconductor fund is a global equity feeder UITF designed to maximize total return by investing in a collective investment scheme, the target fund, which aims for capital appreciation by allocating at least 70 percent of its net assets to equity and equity-related securities of leading semiconductor companies globally.
This strategic approach positions
MBy Ada Pelonia
ORE than 430,000 farmers have received indemnity checks worth P2.65 billion from the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC) as of end-October.
Data obtained by the BusinessMirror showed that the PCIC paid out a total of P2.65 billion in insurance claims to 439,087 farmers and fisherfolk from the January to October period.
sues more prudent capital spending this year. The company invested approximately P31.4 billion in capex during the first nine months of 2025, down 23 percent from P41.0 billion
investors to capture growth potential across the semiconductors and artificial intelligence value chain, the company said.
“The Manulife Global Semiconductor Opportunities Equity Feeder Fund empowers Filipino investors to participate in one of the most transformative technology trends shaping the global economy,“ Aira Gaspar, president and CEO of Manulife Investments, said.
The said feeder fund is the newest addition to Manulife Investments suite of UITFs. It is designed for potential long-term capital appreciation.
Investors may access the Fund for as low as $100 or P1,000, offering an affordable way to participate in the future growth opportunities of the
out P195.27 million for livestock to 14,689 raisers and P14.14 million for fisheries to 2,824 fisherfolk.
The PCIC also released P33.19 million for credit and life term insurance covering 1,389 farmers and P12.49 million for non-crop agri asset to 1,067 farmers.
semiconductor industry.
“Semiconductors serve as the foundation of modern innovation and power artificial intelligence, automation, and digital connectivity. As demand for advanced technologies increases, this new UITF provides our customers with access to leading companies driving progress across the semiconductor and AI value chain,” Gaspar said.
The new fund, she said, reflects its commitment to offering forwardlooking investment solutions that help Filipinos build wealth, reach their financial aspirations, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital world.
According to Manulife Investments, as the technology sector converges with every part of the
checks in this period were released to Mimaropa at P14.99 million, followed by Ilocos Region at P10.71 million and Western Visayas at P10.38 million.
Filipino’s daily lives, the semiconductor sector holds enormous growth potential.
The semiconductor market is expected to surpass $1 trillion by 2030, presenting significant opportunities for investors seeking capital appreciation through exposure to this rapidly expanding sector.
Furthermore, while mega-cap players remain dominant, Manulife said there are compelling opportunities in under-researched semiconductor companies with differentiated technologies and strong competitive moats. An active management approach allows the Target Fund to navigate market cycles and invest in semiconductor leaders positioned for longterm success.
Loan program
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
MASTERCARD and GCash have plugged into Google Pay to provide users with fast, secure and seamless transactions. In a separate statement on Wednesday, Mastercard said its cardholders from select issuers can now pay in stores using their Android mobile phones equipped with near-field communication (NFC) technology, as well as online and in-app through Google Pay. The service will initially be available for Chinabank Mastercard Credit Card, EastWest Bank Mastercard Credit Card, GCash (via Tap to Pay feature), RCBC Mastercard Credit Card and Zed Mastercard Credit Card cardholders.
Mastercard added that more partner banks are preparing to enable Google Pay soon, allowing additional consumers to benefit from secure, convenient digital payments.
“This innovation not only simplifies everyday payments but also accelerates the country’s journey toward a digitally inclusive economy, where secure, tokenized transactions become the norm for all,” Mastercard country manager for the Philippines Jason Crastro said. Google Pay uses Mastercard’s tokenization technology, which replaces sensitive card information with a unique token stored on the user’s device and
protected by a cryptogram.
Mastercard cardholders can download the Google Wallet app from the Play Store and add their card, and start choosing Google Pay at online checkout, confirm their purchase, and pay.
For in-store transactions, cardholders can tap their Android devices at contactless payment terminals. Meanwhile, GCash also announced that it can now be fully integrated with Google Pay, enabling users to link their GCash wallets to the platform for transactions. The feature is initially available to select users and will roll out to more customers soon, GCash said. GCash users need to download Google Wallet from the Google Play Store, open the GCash app and tap on their Profile to link their account.
To activate the service, users must download the Google Wallet app and agree to bind and proceed with biometric verification.
Once complete, a prompt will appear that will redirect them to the Google Pay app, where they need to sign in. “This integration empowers our users to move through digital and physical spaces with greater ease, security, and reach, anchored in our purpose of making the everyday lives of Filipinos better,” G-Xchange, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer Ren-Ren Reyes said.
Broken down, the agency attached to the Department of Agriculture (DA) issued indemnity checks worth P1.81 billion for rice, covering 321,114 farmers; P426.54 million for corn to 77,385 farmers; P167.33 million for high-value crops to 20,618 farmers; Furthermore, the agency paid
IData from the agency indicated that the bulk of the payout in the reference period was in Mimaropa at P519.47 million, which covered 35,652 farmers. This was followed by Western Visayas and Central Luzon at P328.87 million and P257.12 million, respectively. Meanwhile, the PCIC noted that it paid out P50.86 million to 6,169 farmers in the first week of November as compensation for the damages caused by recent typhoons.
The chunk of the indemnification
In 2024, the PCIC said over 4.2 million farmers and fishers were insured, an increase of 7.76 percent from 2023. The coverage totaled P141.561 billion.
The agency noted that indemnity payouts reached P5.031 billion, which benefitted over 815,000 farmers and fisherfolk.
The PCIC earlier said it is seeking additional funds in 2026 to increase the number of insured farmers and fishermen to nearly five million by next year. The agency said it will need around P5.5 billion budget to achieve this, from its current P4.5 billion funding.
MEANWHILE , the DA’s Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC), through its Survival and Recovery (SURE) loan program, has released P139.7 million to 5,506 borrowers from the period of January to September.
This was about 95 percent of the total P147.3 million loans granted to 5,955 individual borrowers in 2024, which helped farmers and fisherfolk recoup from the damage to their livelihoods.
SURE allows up to P25,000 per borrower to support the rehabilitation of agricultural and livelihood activities of farmers and fishers in areas declared under a “state of calamity” by the agency or local governments. This comes with a three-year repayment term, interest-free.
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
N a nod to full transparency, senators took turns defending their designated agency budgets starting Monday, all vowing to ensure the scarce funds are devoted to purely productive purposes that serve the people. They vowed to scuttle the dubious features that marred past budgets, especially the 2025 outlay, which has stirred a raging storm engulfing the executive and Congress.
On Tuesday, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan defended and sponsored the P184.09-billion proposed budget of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and its attached agencies, hurdling questions raised by his colleagues on the agency’s various programs meant to uplift the lives of farmers and fisherfolk.
In his opening statement, the chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform underscored the importance of providing the DA and its attached agencies with the necessary resources to assist agricultural workers heavily impacted by the instability of global market prices, climate change, and government policies.
“As the lead institution in ensuring
the progress of agriculture and fisheries, the Department of Agriculture champions food security, rural development, and the welfare of farmers and fishermen,” he said.
“This covers the value chain— from production, postharvest, and processing until market access, trade, and farmer and fisherfolk empowerment—that is being promoted through research, regulation and support for enterprise,” the senator added.
Pangilinan pointed out that evidencebased interventions are critical to address the issues faced by the country’s agricultural sector and to ensure that such interventions are aligned with the goal of national food security.
The senator discussed programs and projects being implemented by the DA, including the inspection of about 4,700 farmto-market road projects across the country and investigating possible anomalies similar to the ghost flood control projects.
The senator said there will be a special provision under the DA’s Office of the Secretary called the “FMR Watch,” which will allow the public to access information on the current farm-to-market road projects in different barangays.
“Transparency is also key so these projects are implemented properly,” Pang-
ilinan said. He also emphasized the need to amend the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL), and provided details on the post-harvest facilities, mechanized dryers, precision seeding, and cold storage facilities that the DA has been providing farmers and fisherfolk.
He also vowed for the better management of such funds by placing transparency mechanisms to ensure that farmers and fisherfolk will benefit from taxpayers’ money.
Sin tax revenues
EARLIER on Monday, Senator Pia S. Cayetano, Senior Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, sponsored the proposed 2026 budgets of the Department of Health and its attached agencies and corporations, including the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. A mong her key funding recommendations were the expansion of the ZeroBalance Billing (ZBB) Progam in DOH and regional hospitals, support for its pilot implementation in select LGU hospitals, and the direct allocation of the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) to government hospitals. She also called for continued support for the Research Institute
for Tropical Medicine (RITM) and other specialty hospitals.
“Good health is the foundation of sustainable development. By investing in our people’s health today, we are upholding our commitment to universal healthcare and ensuring intergenerational fairness for all Filipinos,” said the senator. As Chairperson of the Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, Innovation, and Futures Thinking, Cayetano reviewed the health budget through the lens of SDG 3 (Good Health & Wellbeing), ensuring that investments advance universal healthcare, preventive care, healthy lifestyles, and equitable access to services. No
“alien” items in Bicam OR his part, Senator Win Gatchalian said he will reject “alien” items in the proposed 2026 national budget during the bicameral conference, which is the final stage before the measure is submitted for the President’s approval.
“That’s what we will watch out for, moving forward, especially in the bicam conference. We won’t allow alien projects, meaning projects that are not in the original proposal or suddenly sneaked into the bicam,” said Gatchalian, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance.
Health&Fitness
Diabetes Philippines, AstraZeneca push for early screening to combat complications
DBy Candy P. Dalizon Contributor
IABETES Philippines is urging the public to get tested for diabetes immediately. Doctors warn that most people are diagnosed too late, only after severe complications such as kidney disease, heart attack, stroke, foot problems, or eye damage have already developed.
To address this crisis, Diabetes Philippines and AstraZeneca officially launched the “STOP Diabetes ACT NOW” campaign on November 14, 2025, coinciding with World Diabetes Day. The campaign issues an urgent call for Filipinos to undergo earlier screening for diabetes, a lifestyle disease affecting 4.7 million Filipino adults and the fifth leading cause of death in the country, to significantly reduce the risk of developing severe, lifethreatening complications.
“Early screening is one of our most powerful tools because if we know the risk of diabetes earlier, we will be able to treat it earlier. Preventing complications, protecting quality of life, and reducing the burden of families and our healthcare system is our goal,” said Dr. Fatma Tiu, President of Diabetes Philippines.
Diabetes Philippines, formerly known as the Philippine Diabetes Association (PDA), is the umbrella organization for all associations and entities in the Philippines committed to the care and prevention of diabetes. It is a member of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).
Undiagnosed individuals
ACCORDING to the latest report from the IDF, approximately 7.5 percent or an estimated 4.7 million Filipinos aged 20 to 79 years old are living with the disease. Alarmingly, the same statistics also show that an estimated 53.5 percent of adults in the country remain undiagnosed, highlighting the need for early screening of Type 2 diabetes to prevent disease progression.
The Philippine Statistics Authority also
reported that diabetes was the fifth leading cause of mortality among Filipinos in 2024, emphasizing its severe impact on national health.
“We want to look for the 50 plus percent of the Filipinos who don’t know yet that they are diabetic. Diabetes Philippines will go around the country with the help of PhilHealth and look for these individuals. These are high-risk individuals who have a great chance of preventing the alarming complications of diabetes,” said Dr. Tiu.
The strategy focuses on aggressive early treatment. This involves setting specific goals and training primary care physicians to ensure patients receive prompt care. Furthermore, the plan promotes the optimized management of comorbidities, treating not just diabetes, but also hypertension, high cholesterol, and elevated uric acid. Finally, the initiative will continue to advocate for a preventive lifestyle for all Filipinos.
Partnership
WHILE Stop Diabetes refers to early screening, Dr. Tiu said Act Now is Diabetes Philippines’ partnership with multinational biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca.
“We have been partners for over four years in trying to look for these individuals where diabetes complications can be prevented, where dialysis may be avoided. We are very proud and happy to inform you that we have done a lot already,” said Dr. Tiu.
She said that the organization has established extensive partnerships across the country, working with local government units (LGUs) and retail drug stores to facilitate early screening for kidney damage. Their collaborative efforts also extend to working with medical clinics, government agencies, and non-government organizations (NGOs). Dr. Tiu reported that they have already screened 2,447,926 individuals so far.
“The good news is that we have screened a large number of people. The bad news is that the results show that 62 percent of those screened, even those without any symptoms,
tested positive for UACR [Urine Albumin-toCreatinine Ratio],” said Dr. Tiu. She added, “This percentage is very high, and if we do not treat this, the condition will progress and eventually lead to dialysis.”
Urine test
UACR stands for Urine Albumin-Creatinine Ratio, a simple urine test that measures the amount of protein (albumin) and a waste product (creatinine) in the urine to assess kidney function. A high UACR can indicate kidney damage. This test is crucial for individuals at risk for kidney disease, such as those with diabetes or high blood pressure.
Through the ‘STOP Diabetes ACT NOW’ program with AstraZeneca, the primary goal is early detection, early action, and achieving better patient outcomes. Specifically, the objective is to reduce the progression of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) to End-Stage Renal Disease and dialysis, and to lower early premature mortality by providing care sooner and more effectively.
The core strategy is to collaborate across the entire healthcare ecosystem to ensure routine screening, rapid diagnosis, and timely access to appropriate treatment that prevents CKD progression.
To make kidney function screening accessible, affordable, and convenient, Dr. Tiu said they are bringing the test to both clinical and community settings. Although PhilHealth does not yet cover UACR screening, the Diabetes Philippines partnership will augment existing screening tools for early kidney complication detection. They also plan to expand screening services through clinics and pharmacies for early diagnosis.
Diabetes in the Workplace
DIABETES Philippines is urging employers to prioritize workforce health and well-being, calling for stronger efforts to address diabetes as a critical workplace issue. Given the prevalence of long hours, high stress, and sedentary routines, diabetes is quickly becoming a major, yet often overlooked, chal -
lenge in the modern working environment.
Also in observance of World Diabetes Day 2025, Diabetes Philippines is leading a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about how work environments influence lifestylerelated diseases. The organization’s advocacy is supported by healthcare company Novo Nordisk Philippines, which shares the commitment to promoting diabetes education, prevention, and care in the country.
“The weight of the matter is this: the way we work is shaping the way we get sick,” said Dr. Reynaldo Rosales, Treasurer of Diabetes Philippines.
“Obesity and diabetes are deeply connected. A sedentary lifestyle and poor eating habits create insulin resistance over time. Without early intervention, we risk seeing diabetes affect people at younger ages,” he continued.
Small changes
DR. Rosales emphasized that small changes in the workplace can yield major health benefits—from regular health checks to healthy food options and activity breaks during the workday.
“Education and awareness must begin where people spend most of their day—at work,” said Dr. Nines Bautista, Vice Chairman and Vice President of Diabetes Philippines.
“Our call to action is clear: let’s make every workplace a space for health. We aim to empower employees and employers alike to build healthier habits together,” added Dr. Bautista.
Novo Nordisk Philippines, a partner of Diabetes Philippines, continues to support efforts that promote awareness, early detection, and management of diabetes nationwide.
“Workplaces are critical environments for promoting good health,” said Wei Sun, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines.
“By supporting Diabetes Philippines and its initiatives, we hope to help organizations create spaces where prevention and early action become part of everyday work life.”
Gov’t, parents strengthen fight vs vaping, smoking
By Claudeth Mocon Ciriaco
AKE news.
FThis was the warning of the Department of Health (DOH) as the vaping industry said in its latest marketing strategy that vape and other novel nicotine products are safe.
“It’s fake news that vapes are safer than cigarettes,” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said. With this, the DOH is strengthening the campaign to protect the Filipinos against smoking and vaping.
COP 11
MEANWHILE , Parents Against Vape (PAV) said that alarms have already been sounded that the tobacco industry is attempting to influence the proceedings and outcome of the Eleventh Session of the Conference of the Parties to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (COP 11) will be held from November 17 to 22, 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.
“Its purpose is to discuss and decide on mea -
sures to achieve the objectives of the WHO FCTC, including the prevention of nicotine addiction,” PAV said in a statement.
The Illusion of ‘safe’ smoke PAV assailed the seductive pitch of vaping firms which stated: “It’s safer,” “It’s cleaner,” “It helps people quit cigarettes.”
“But the reality is far more sinister. The industry pours resources into obscuring harms, funding favorable research, and influencing policies to appear legitimate. The increase in e-cigarette use is not because smokers switched,” PAV said.
Evidence shows the majority of vape users are t he youth, many of whom never smoked, PAV said.
“This proves that vaping is not merely an alternative for smokers; it has become a gateway for a new generation of nicotine addicts. We see the consequences: curiosity leads to experimentation, experimentation to addiction, and addiction to long-term lung damage, nicotine dependence, and even a gateway to conventional smoking.”
Industry tactics
THE WHO FCTC report underscores how industry tactics have shifted from open confrontation to sophisticated influence:
n Lobbying governments and national delegations;
n Infiltrating negotiations via front groups and industry-funded “independent” voices;
n Co-opting scientific research to sow doubt; and
n Pushing misleading economic narratives (jobs, taxation, farming).
Strong regulation matters
PAV pointed out that if the vape industry is allowed to influence health policies, the result will damage to children’s lungs, minds, and futures.
“The proposed policies using “harm reduction” to cut vape taxes don’t protect children; they protect industry profits. This is not harm reduction, but harm promotion,” PAV said.
Hence, the PAV is demanding: ZERO compromise on youth protection: Age limits, flavor bans, plain packaging, and strict marketing
controls must be non-negotiable.
Full transparency and removal of industry influence: Policymakers must fully implement protections from industry interference. WHO FCTC Article 5.3 must be honored in practice, not just rhetoric.
Strong enforcement and accountability: Weak laws are meaningless. Enforcement must have teeth: fines, bans, and real consequences for violations.
Education and awareness: Children deserve honest information, not half-truths spun by PR firms. Parents, teachers, and schools must be partners in countering marketing lies.
Vigilance and civic engagement: Parents must stay alert. When regulators convene or draft laws are published, parents must occupy those spaces, demand accountability, and resist industry influence. PAV also called on all stakeholders to resist industry influence.
“ As parents, we will not allow big tobacco or big vape to rewrite the rules behind closed doors. Let every negotiation, regulation, and law bear witness. When it comes to our children’s futures, we will not yield,” PAV concluded
Multi-sector leaders tackle supply chain gaps to realize UHC promise
By Candy P. Dalizon Contributor
HE Philippine Universal Health Care (UHC)
TLaw guarantees equitable access to quality health services and essential medicines for all Filipinos. However, complex gaps persist. Recognizing that bridging this divide requires collective action, leaders from the government, academe, civil society, patient groups, and the private sector recently convened. Their mission was to identify actionable reforms focused on achieving a resilient supply chain, sustainable financing, and reliable data to ultimately unlock better and faster access to innovative medicines and vaccines for everyone.
On November 4, 2025, the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) and UHC Watch hosted a multi-sectoral dialogue aimed at advancing Universal Health Care for better access to innovative medicines and vaccines, held at the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) in Makati City. Present at the event were representatives from the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Philippine Health
Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB), and Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
PHAP Executive Director Teodoro Padilla emphasized that medicine access “is not only a health issue; it is a systems issue,” highlighting the need for strong financing, supply chains, and regulatory systems to support UHC.
Two key reports
TWO recent, complementary studies—ADBThinkWell’s “Strengthening the Medicine Access Pathway” and PHAP’s “Pathways to Inclusive Access”—provide crucial evidence and recommendations for improving UHC. These reports anchored the dialogue, as both underlined the importance of policy coherence, evidence-based decisionmaking, and strategic public-private collaboration to strengthen UHC implementation.
The ADB-ThinkWell study revealed significant barriers to medicine access, citing issues such as regulatory bottlenecks, fragmented procurement, and supply chain vulnerabilities. To address this, the study recommended not only stronger governance, FDA modernization, and strategic purchasing, but
also establishing stronger, coordinated institutional mechanisms to overcome fragmentation and achieve effective, universal medicine access. PHAP’s research, on the other hand, focused on financial and operational needs, highlighting the necessity to increase health budgets, strengthen procurement using real-time data, and integrate real-world evidence into Health Technology Assessment (HTA) to accelerate patient access.
Insights from key government agencies
DBM Undersecretary Rolando Toledo cited infrastructure investment and procurement reform as keys to achieving UHC, particularly through the new Government Procurement Act (RA 1209). The landmark law introduces digital platforms like eMarketplace, promotes pooled procurement, and shifts government purchasing from simply selecting the lowest bid to awarding the most advantageous and responsive offer, one that values quality, innovation, and transparency.
For her part, Atty. Sofia C. Yanto-Abad, OIC Director General, Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB), said the new Government Procurement Act is transforming public procurement from a bureaucratic service into a strategic, profes -
MSD launches youth-driven movement for HPV prevention
By Vincent Peter Rivera
MSD (Merck Sharp & Dohme (I.A.) LLC) in the Philippines, a subsidiary of the global biopharmaceutical company Merck & Co., Inc., officially launched “Gen V: Your Vibe, Your Move,” a youth-driven movement designed to boost education and awareness about the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). With the core message, “Prevention is power,” Gen V is part of the healthcare organization’s commitment to support cervical cancer elimination efforts, especially with the World Health Assembly (WHA78.8) having designated November 17 as the “World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day.”
“It’s very important for MSD to have this advocacy towards elevating the awareness of Cervical Cancer in the Philippines, especially because there are 12 Filipinas that die everyday [because] of Cervical Cancer,” Andreas Michael Riedel, MSD Philippines President and Managing Director, told BusinessMirror
Truly fitting to today’s youth, the event offered various activities that blend recreation and HPV awareness including a dance lesson, yoga class, and a health discussion. The discussion covered factual information like how HPV vaccination works best before exposure, making it ideal for preteens, teens, and young adults. Protection benefits everyone, regardless of gender. By grounding scientific facts in relatable dialogue, Gen V empowers young Filipinos to view prevention as a form of selfcare, one that protects their health, their goals, and their future.
Youths at the core MORE than just a traditional awareness campaign, “Gen V: Your Vibe, Your Move” is an ethos designed to seamlessly blend evidence-based health information with the everyday realities, values, and creative energy of today’s youth.
The movement is strategically grounded in the principles of visibility, authenticity, and informed choices, directly encouraging Gen Zs and Millennials to take charge of their well-being by fully understanding HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and the serious diseases it can cause.
The campaign’s name, “Gen V,” intentionally reflects the proactive nature of its target audience.
According to Dr. Maan Galang-Escalona, Country Medical Lead of MSD in the Philippines, a primary reason for the name is that the youth are unafraid to speak up, allowing them to harness their own voice.
“They are not afraid to be seen, so that’s being very visible. And then not afraid to be proactive, so that’s vitality, and not afraid to take action,” she stated. Dr. Galang-Escalona further highlighted the influence young people wield in shaping public understanding: “You are the generation that uses your platform to spark change. When prevention goes viral, it saves lives.”
To further amplify the movement’s purpose, the event gathered several prominent content creators, including Karina Bautista, Fonzi, Killa Kushla, and Kylie Celebre. Prevention beyond vaccination WHEN discussing the importance of tackling the vitality of prevention, Dr. Galang-Escalona emphasized that protection from HPV is not a “do one thing” strategy. She explained that a comprehensive approach is vital because, “To prevent HPV, you need to do several things, and vaccination is just one of them.”
To make the necessary actions memorable and actionable for the youth, she provided some key preventative behaviors using a five-letter mnemonic.
First, she mentioned A for “Abstinence” as HPV is sexually transmitted. “If you don’t want to get it, then don’t have sex,” she stated, offering them an option while also acknowledging the challenge of this behavior for many people. The next essential step is B for “Be vaccinated” which provides targeted protection from the specific HPV types contained in the available vaccine. Beyond vaccination, she included screening as a form of protection, noting that “when a woman gets screened early, she will also be prevented from progressing.”
sionalized governance function to achieve better health outcomes.
Strengthening supply chain
FROM the DOH, Dr. Fides Buenafe shared updates on strengthening supply chain systems and expanding the Electronic Logistics Management Information System (eLMIS) down to local facilities by 2026. PhilHealth’s Dr. Alfred De Dios presented the YAKAP initiative, aimed at shifting the system toward preventive, primary care.
DTI Undersecretary Mary Jean Pacheco reinforced that the framework for effective supply chain management exists; the priority now is implementation and fast collaboration across sectors.
“The formula of supply chain management is already there. The question is the execution of it. And how quickly we, as government and the private sector, will agree to work together,” she continued.
Closing the dialogue, Padilla stressed that delivering UHC requires evidence-based policymaking, coordination, and accountability. He emphasized three critical priorities: strengthening health financing and strategic purchasing, improving procurement and supply chain systems, and harnessing data for informed healthcare decisions.
The third letter is C for “Condom” which helps prevent transmission of the virus during intimate skin-to-skin contact, although she cautioned that condom use is not 100 percent sure due to certain surface areas of the skin still being in contact, but it can significantly lessen the risk. Finally, the remaining letters stress the importance of personal action and overall health: D for “Doctor consultation” which ensures people get educated from experts and seek help if they feel something is wrong; and E for “Eat healthily, Exercise.”
Dr. Galang-Escalona underscored the need to be physically active, explaining, “We really have to move because if we stagnate, our body will not be efficient in getting rid of the disease.”
She concluded that these five actions are just a starting point, noting that other behaviors like avoiding smoking are also crucial, ultimately stating: “it’s important to take action, to be proactive in owning your health, to having that health-seeking behavior.”
With the inception of Gen V among the Filipino youths, she emphasized that these actions are just starting points to, “proactively owning your health.”
“So let’s normalize the discussion about health in the younger ones. Take that action, speak up and be visible in talking about HPV awareness,” Dr. Galang-Escalona concluded.
To learn more about HPV, cervical cancer prevention, and where to access vaccination, the public can visit www. GuardAgainstHPV.ph and explore credible resources that can help you make informed choices.
Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz
‘TUPAD workers to rehabilitate abaca farms’
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) launched a rehabilitation program for the abaca industry in Bicol after typhoon Uwan ravaged plantations.
PhilFIDA said its crop damage report showed that typhoon Uwan destroyed over 55,000 hectares across the region’s five abaca-producing provinces.
Of this, 1,402 hectares were slightly damaged; 18,097 hectares were moderately damaged; and 35,699 hectares were heavily damaged.
Furthermore, the agency said the typhoon wiped out an estimated 7,492.90 metric tons (MT) of fiber worth over P38 million.
For farmers still reeling from the impacts of last year’s typhoons Pepito and
Kristine, the agency said such a destruction proved a “crushing setback.”
“Bicol is the country’s abaca powerhouse—the region that introduced Manila hemp to the world,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a statement.
“We owe it to our abaca farmers to help them recover quickly and rebuild stronger. Their resilience fuels rural economies, and we will stand with them every step of the way,” he added. To start the region’s recovery, PhilFIDA and DOLE said they
China zinc smelters ramp up exports
CHINESE zinc producers are ramping up exports after a global supply squeeze opened a rare window for overseas sales.
Output in China, which accounts for over half the world’s total, is tracking for an annual record at a time when global inventories of the metal are in sharp decline. Refined zinc exports likely shot up in October as a result, and are expected to rise further in the last two months of the year, as smelters profit from the spike in international prices while their domestic market stagnates.
Export volumes may rise to as much as 50,000 tons for November and December combined, compared with about 10,000 tons in October, according to estimates from Jinrui Futures Co. For much of the last three years, China has exported just a few hundred tons a month.
The last time the country shipped meaningful volumes was after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine raised energy prices and triggered worldwide smelter closures. In May 2022, volumes topped 35,000 tons, a monthly record.
Spot zinc’s premium to threemonth prices spiked to over $300 a ton on the London Metal Exchange last month, signaling an immediate supply shortfall. Although the spread has narrowed to $130 a ton, Chinese exports remain economically
viable. The country’s zinc output, meanwhile, hit an alltime high of 665,000 tons last month.
The metal is primarily used to galvanize steel. Chinese capacity has continued to expand despite the impact on construction from the nation’s unrelenting property slump. That’s likely to leave a surplus available for export through the first quarter of 2026 as domestic stockpiles typically build around the Lunar New Year, Zijin Tianfeng Futures Co. said in a note.
Zinc futures edged up in both London and China, with the LME adding 0.2 percent to $2,995 a ton at 10:23 a.m. in Shanghai, while on the Shanghai Futures Exchange they rose 0.4 percent.
On the wire
SHARES of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd., up 92 percent since their listing in Hong Kong this May, are bracing for a crucial test as selling restrictions on early investors expire on Wednesday.
China made its biggest daily purchase of American soybeans in two years, in a move that ends a temporary pause and appears to signal a commitment to a trade truce reached late last month. Germany is taking a more cautious approach to Beijing’s influence over its energy infrastructure. Bloomberg News
will activate a Labor Incentive Program under the labor agency’s TUPAD cash-for-work scheme.
The partnership aims to restore 4,505.81 hectares of abaca farms within three months and help thousands of
families in the region regain their footing.
As such, some 23,619 farmers will be mobilized to clear debris, trim damaged stalks, reinforce standing plants, and replant uprooted or shallow-rooted abaca.
Slightly damaged stands will be trimmed and rehabilitated, while heavily affected farms will undergo full replanting with disease-free suckers screened by PhilFIDA and local abaca focal persons.
PhilFIDA also said its technicians will map damaged sites, verify the extent of losses, and document conditions. These reports would be needed by DOLE before releasing any cashfor-work payments.
Farms will undergo prereplanting inspections to confirm planting materials are available and areas are properly cleared, according to the agency.
Furthemore, PhilFIDA said replanting density will depend on the level of damage: 400 suckers per hectare in severely hit farms, 200 in moderately affected areas, and 100 in slightly damaged zones.
After replanting, a joint inspection team will check survival rates of replanted suckers and certify results, the agency said.
PhilFIDA said farmers will receive DOLE’s cash-forwork incentives: P3,000 per hectare for slightly damaged farms, P5,000 for moderate damage, and P10,000 for heavily damaged areas.
In 2024, Bicol accounted nearly one-third of the nation’s abaca output, with Catanduanes alone contributing 82 percent.
DA: Spending plan seeks to hike agri contribution to GDP
THE Senate backed the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) P184.1-billion budget for 2026 which is expected to enable the agency to boost food security and fast-track rural development.
The DA expressed its gratitude to the lawmakers who also signaled their openness to increasing allocations for the agency during the upcoming bicameral conference committee.
“Now that the Senate has passed our budget, we can plan and make sure that everything is implemented properly, at the right cost, at the right time,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a
GLOBAL food import bill will go up by nearly 8 percent yearon-year to $2.2 trillion by yearend, according to a report published by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
In its new FAO Food Outlook, the UN agency said the increase in the global food import bill is driven largely by an average 34.5-percent jump in the prices of higher-value products, notably coffee and cocoa, primarily imported by high-income countries.
“In Least-Developed Countries, meanwhile, expenditures on animal and vegetable oils are estimated to rise by 58 percent compared to 2024, broadly split between quantity and price effects, with the latter particularly impacted by higher import prices for palm oil, raising concern of affordability.”
By contrast, FAO noted that lower prices for cereals and sugar, are estimated to result in “significant declines” in the aggregate import bills for
statement.
He called the approval “a critical step” toward stabilizing food supply and improving the lives of farmers and fisherfolk.
The DA said its 2026 spending plan would fund programs to raise production efficiency, widen market access, and modernize the agricultural value chain.
Such initiatives, the DA chief said, will “plant the seeds to restore the role of the agriculture sector as a meaningful contributor to economic growth, job generation, and an investmentworthy venture.”
The agency said agriculture currently accounts for around
8 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), yet provides one job for every five Filipino workers. As such, this underscores its central role in rural livelihoods despite its relatively small share of the economy.
Improving local productivity could significantly reduce import dependence, generate more domestic employment, and save the country billions of pesos in foreign exchange, the DA said, citing economists. The agency added that these are the objectives its 2026 programs aim to support.
Furthermore, the DA noted that a significant share of next year’s outlay would be directed
toward capital investments, including post-harvest facilities and new farm-to-market roads (FMRs).
The DA chief noted that these projects support the government’s goal to reduce food prices by cutting transport and spoilage losses.
The agency noted that the Senate would seek additional funding for high-value crop development and more FMRs, citing their potential to raise productivity, lower costs, and improve rural incomes.
According to the DA chief, the Senate’s backing paved the way for a “more resilient and more future-ready” farm sector next year. Ada Pelonia
those commodities.
The combined food import bill for Low-Income Countries is expected to decline slightly compared to 2024, while that for sub-Saharan Africa should rise modestly.
FAO also noted that current conditions point to “broadbased increases” in global food commodity production, alongside strong consumption growth and a recovery in inventories, although weather variability and a clouded trade outlook could pose risks.
“Global wheat and coarse grain outputs are on track to set new records, with the same applying to rice production in Asia and the Latin America and Caribbean region. Stocks-to-use ratios for these key staples are also forecast to rise.”
The biannual publication provides updated market assessments and forecasts for the production, utilization, trade, and stocks of major food commodities including cereals, oilcrops, sugar, meat, dairy products, and fisheries.
“The rebound in global
food production marks a positive turning point for market stability. But behind these numbers lie persistent risks, from extreme weather to fragile trade relations, that can quickly reshape global supply and access. Building resilience across the agrifood system remains our greatest challenge,” said FAO Chief Economist Maximo Torero.
Wheat, maize and rice markets are marked by abundant exportable supplies, which have exerted downward pressure on international prices. Meanwhile, utilizations of wheat and especially rice are expected to increase significantly, led by faster consumption growth in LowIncome Food Deficit Countries (LIFDCs).
The report also noted that global wheat inventories are expected to expand by 3.6 percent in the year ahead to reach their highest-ever level by the end of seasons in 2026, while world rice stocks are forecast to increase by 2.2 percent to a new record high.
“World meat production is expected to rise by 1.4 percent, led by poultry, while bovine meat output will likely contract due largely to reduced cattle inventories in Brazil and the United States of America.” FAO said global sugar stocks are anticipated to increase as bumper harvests in Brazil, along with strong outturns in India and Thailand, are foreseen to drive production up much faster than consumption.
“Global vegetable oil consumption, by contrast, is forecast to outpace production, influenced by reduced soybean outputs, resulting mainly from reduced planting areas in Argentina, India, Ukraine and the United States of America.”
Meanwhile, FAO said global fisheries and aquaculture production is forecast to increase by 1.7 percent, with expectations of a 2.5 percent increase in per capita food consumption of aquaculture products offsetting a decline in consumption from capture fisheries.
PHOTO of abaca tuxy from the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority
RCBC, Meridian Launch first US Virtual Account for Filipinos
Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), one of the Philippines’ most awarded and digitally advanced banks, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Meridian, a leading US-based provider of real-time global payments networking, to launch the RCBC Pulz App US Virtual Account.
As the first bank in the Philippines to offer US virtual accounts, the joint innovation allows RCBC customers to open and manage a US virtual account directly through the RCBC Pulz app with no US address, social security number, or residency required. Users receive their own US account in their name, capable of accepting domestic payments in real time from any US bank, with funds instantly reflected in their linked RCBC Pulz peso accounts, bypassing the delays, high fees, and complexities of traditional crossborder payments.
“RCBC has always been about breaking barriers and building bridges especially for the millions of Filipinos with strong ties abroad,” said Reggie Cariaso, RCBC President and CEO. “Through our partnership with Meridian, we are enabling every Filipino, whether a freelancer or an entrepreneur, to connect directly to the US economy. This is financial inclusion made real.”
With an estimated US$36 billion in remittances flowing into the Philippines annually, making it one of the world’s top destinations for global payments, RCBC’s latest offering aims to modernize the experience of receiving money from the US by providing a more efficient, transparent, and real-time alternative to conventional money transfer services.
“Global payments often take hours or even days, with fees eating into what people actually receive,” explained Will Haering, CEO of Meridian. “By partnering with RCBC, we’re creating a seamless, compliant, and secure bridge that lets Filipinos enjoy the same access, speed, and convenience that US-based users experience locally. It’s not just about faster transactions, it’s about leveling the financial playing field to make
FOR many Filipinos, owning a home feels increasingly out of reach. On one end, property prices continue to rise alongside the cost of living. Meanwhile, across the board, wages remain generally stagnant. Despite these challenges, however, there is hope and home ownership remains possible. Angelo Elipse, Dolmar Land’s Vice President for Business Development, shares, “Owning a home was much easier a couple of years ago when monthly income requirement for bank financing approval was much friendlier. But that doesn’t mean that it has become impossible today. The key is setting a concrete goal and taking purposeful steps toward it.” As one of the leading developers in the mid-range housing category, Dolmar Land has been building communities for over 50 years. With more than 7,000 homes delivered to Filipinos, the company recognizes that the journey to homeownership begins with small, practical steps. “Buying your first home doesn’t have to be overwhelming,” adds Elipse. “At Dolmar Land, we hope to help Filipinos navigate the process with learnings we’ve gained from decades of experience bridging the community to their future homes.”
1. Set a realistic budget and manage expectations accordingly
Current behavioral trends show that Filipino homebuyers search for properties priced between P2 to P6 million, placing them within the mid-income housing segment. Understanding how much you can comfortably spend, while keeping in mind the features or amenities that matter most to you, helps you streamline your search and focus on homes that truly fit your needs. Elipse explains that being clear about your budget can make a big difference early in the process. “When you know the price range that you’re capable of, it’s easier to narrow down your options. Start with location as it will generally dictate what value that you’ll get out of your investment. For instance, a P3-million home in Bulacan, Pampanga, or Cavite can often offer more space and long-term value than a similar-priced property in Metro Manila.”
2. Choose a developer that offers properties that fit
global payments local.”
Unlike other digital banking products that merely facilitate remittances, the RCBC Pulz App US Virtual Account gives Filipinos direct access to the local US payment systems, a privilege traditionally limited to US residents. Users can receive up to $10,000 USD per month (monthly aggregate limit) directly into their RCBC U.S. Virtual Account, enabling more seamless, secure, and convenient management of their funds across borders.
“This innovation puts RCBC ahead of the curve in the region’s digital banking race,” noted Lito Villanueva, RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer. “We’re not just digitizing existing services, we’re redesigning how money moves across borders. The RCBC Pulz App US Virtual Account embodies our commitment to building a more inclusive, tech-driven, and borderless financial ecosystem.”
The initiative also earned strong support from the government, recognizing its role in advancing the country’s digital transformation agenda.
“This innovation aligns perfectly with DICT’s mission to build a safe, reliable, and digitally empowered nation anchored on three pillars: strengthening cybersecurity, ensuring efficient and affordable data access, and driving digital innovations that uplift lives,” said Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda.
The launch comes at a time when the nature of work and financial exchange has drastically evolved. With more Filipino freelancers and gig workers serving USbased clients, and over four million Filipino immigrants and temporary workers in the U.S., the demand for more flexible, affordable,
your lifestyle needs
Every homebuyer will have different needs in terms of what constitutes a “home,” from professionals seeking a quieter space, to young families prioritizing amenities for growing children, and others looking for an urban set-up that provides both the peacefulness of a neighborhood and easy access to everyday conveniences. Understanding these priorities helps narrow down your choices to properties that not only fit your budget but also align with the life you envision building. In areas like Pampanga and Bulacan, Dolmar Land ensures delivering true value for money with your needs in mind, offering not just a house, but a home and community with shared spaces such as a clubhouse, multipurpose halls, basketball courts, parks, and swimming pools; all housed within a gated community that serves as yet another step of Dolmar Land toward building spaces that are safe and secure.
As Elipse puts it, “Finding the right home isn’t just about price, it’s about discovering a place that fits the life you want to live.”
3. Explore financing options such as Pag-IBIG housing loans
Pag-IBIG remains one of the most accessible ways to finance a home. It offers interest rates as low as 5.75 percent per year and repayment terms of up to 30 years, making monthly payments more manageable for first-time buyers.
To make the most of this option, start by checking your Pag-IBIG membership status and loan eligibility through their website. Next, calculate your capacity to pay by using their online housing loan calculator to estimate monthly amortizations. Once you’ve identified your budget, prepare
GSIS mobilizes for typhoon recovery, urges prompt filing of property, vehicle claims
STATE insurer Government Service Insurance System
(GSIS) has urged government agencies and individual members to file their insurance claims promptly to accelerate recovery efforts in the wake of widespread damage caused by Typhoons Tino and Uwan. The back-to-back typhoons have devastated numerous areas across the country, leaving a significant impact on properties and infrastructure. The GSIS is prioritizing the processing of claims to provide immediate financial assistance to affected
“In the face of these successive calamities, our commitment is to help our members and our nation rebuild as quickly as possible,” GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso said. “Insuring your properties provides a critical safety net, and the GSIS is here to ensure that our clients receive the benefits they are entitled to without delay.”
and secure ways to receive and manage earnings has never been greater.
Starting November 11, 2025, Filipinos will be able to create their first-ever US virtual account directly within the RCBC Pulz app, giving them the ability to receive their earnings in US dollars and swiftly convert to Philippine pesos with the same ease as their peso accounts. For families back home, this also means faster support and direct access to local payments from loved ones abroad in the US, without the waiting times and conversion losses that have long burdened traditional remittance channels.
RCBC has been widely recognized for its digital-first approach and inclusive innovations. Its award-winning RCBC Pulz App, DiskarTech, and ATM Go platforms have set benchmarks for financial inclusion, offering easy onboarding, goal-based savings, and AI-powered financial education tools to millions of Filipinos.
The partnership with Meridian underscores RCBC’s continuing mission to push the boundaries of digital banking, both locally and globally through cutting-edge digital banking infrastructure.
“We are proud to partner with RCBC as the first bank bringing this transformative payment innovation to life and make US accounts available across the Philippines,” said Haering. “Our shared vision is to eliminate borders in banking so that global payments become local, driving opportunity, income, and progress for people in the Philippines.”
“Banking should move at the speed of life,” Villanueva concluded. “This partnership with Meridian is more than a new product, it’s a promise to every Filipino that wherever you are in the world, your financial future is within reach.”
the necessary documents, such as proof of income and valid IDs, so you can apply as soon as you find a property that fits your needs.
According to Elipse, exploring all your financing options early “helps buyers set clearer expectations and make more confident decisions, especially when it comes to long-term affordability.”
Recognizing the importance of accessible financing, Dolmar Land continues to strengthen its partnerships to support Filipino homebuyers, being recently recognized by Pag-IBIG Fund (HDMF) as one of the Top Developers in North Luzon at the Pag-IBIG STAR Awards H1 2025. Beyond PagIBIG, Dolmar Land also works closely with several major banks to provide flexible financing options; helping more Filipino families achieve their goal of owning a home.
4. Start saving early on Buying a home isn’t just about covering the property’s price tag, it also comes with additional expenses like documentary stamp taxes, registration fees, and moving costs. That’s why it’s important to start saving as early as possible. Begin by setting a clear goal for your down payment so you can reserve your chosen property. From there, it will also be crucial to determine how much you would need to set aside each month to reach that goal.
It also helps to prepare for location-specific expenses, such as permits, electrical installations, or landscaping regulations. Being aware of such factors early on can help you plan your budget better and helps ensure that financial strains can be mitigated as much as possible.
5. Act as early as possible
Within the real estate landscape, property values rarely decrease; this is especially seen in key growth areas like Central Luzon, where residential land prices have steadily appreciated over the past decade. This means that the earlier you invest, the sooner you can secure today’s rates and benefit in the future.
Recognizing this, Dolmar Land is strengthening its pre-buying assistance policies to further support first-time homebuyers, ensuring that Filipinos are not only informed but also empowered as they purchase their first home with Dolmar Land.
Batang Juan Network Partners with CRN, PLCPD in Pushing for Stronger Child Rights Laws in Congress
IN celebration of National Children’s Month, the Batang Juan Network (BJN), the policy advocacy arm of 1Munti Partylist, partnered with the Child Rights Network (CRN), represented by the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD), to lobby for stronger child protection laws at the House of Representatives. Together, the groups met with child rights advocates in Congress including Aklan Rep. Jess Marquez, Bataan Rep. Tony Roman and Rizal Rep. Dino Tanjuatco to advance key measures pending in the 20th Congress — the Magna Carta of Children and the Universal Birth Registration Act. These measures seek to ensure that every Filipino child has legal identity, access to protection, and equal opportunities to live in dignity and safety. The discussions underscored how birth registration serves as a gateway right, unlocking access to education, healthcare, and
other essential services.
“This partnership with CRN and PLCPD strengthens our resolve to champion evidence-based, child-centered policies,” said Dr. PJ Javier, Co-Convener of Batang Juan Network. “Even as 1Munti Partylist did not make it to Congress in the 2025 elections, our advocacy for Filipino children continues because every child deserves to be seen, heard, and protected.”
The Batang Juan Network also plans to hold courtesy visits with other child rights champions, including Batangas Rep. King Collantes, Muntinlupa Rep. Jimmy Fresnedi and Sorsogon Rep. Wowo Fortes to explore further collaboration on local and national programs for children.
As the policy arm of 1Munti Partylist, BJN continues to bridge grassroots insights and policy reform, working with youth leaders, communities, and legislators to build a future where no Filipino child is left behind.
ISA Governance Summit calls for moral leadership, accountability amid public distrust
AS corruption scandals and crises of public trust continue to plague the nation, the Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA) called on leaders and citizens alike to demand accountability and integrity in governance during its “ISAng Bansa, ISAng Pangarap: National Summit for Public Governance” held on November 6, 2025, at the Dusit Thani Manila. Now in its 25th year, ISA gathered over 300 reform advocates and sector leaders from government, business, and civil society to renew a nationwide movement for transparency, reform, and citizen empowerment through good governance.
Opening the Summit, ISA Chairman Francisco F. del Rosario Jr. urged Filipinos to confront systemic corruption with moral and decisive leadership. He reminded participants that governance reform must go beyond discussion and become daily practice.
“Good governance is exactly what we need to address the tremendous crisis we are facing because of systemic corruption,” he said. “We cannot and should not let what are discussed remain as words. We have to put all of these into concrete action.”
Renowned economist, former Finance Secretary, and ISA Founder and Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jesus P. Estanislao followed with a keynote that turned reflection into a call for unity.
“Good governance works and delivers transformative performance,” he said, leading the audience in the ‘I Am a Filipino’ pledge. “Let us rise for God, for country, for one another, for our Dream Philippines.”
To confront the barriers that keep public institutions from delivering real results, the first plenary on Institutional Leadership and Strategic Reforms brought together Stratbase Group Founder Victor Andres Manhit, Former Marikina City Mayor Maria Lourdes Carlos-Fernando, and Former Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento. Moderated by Former San Fernando City, La Union Mayor Mary Jane C. Ortega, the discussion focused on the need for institutionalized accountability and long-term strategic thinking.
Manhit underscored that governance reform must start with an informed electorate and transparent systems.
Meanwhile, Fernando highlighted that “no amount of strategy can compensate for the absence of integrity,” stressing that true leadership looks beyond political cycles to public impact. Drawing from his years in local government, Sarmiento also emphasized citizen participation and valuedriven politics.
“Government should work with the people to ensure that they work for the people,” he said, urging the next generation to “choose leaders by platform, not by name.”
As corruption continues to erode public trust, the second plenary on Public Sector Integrity and Anti-Corruption examined how moral leadership and citizen engagement can rebuild confidence in institutions. Moderated by veteran journalist Cathy Yang, the session featured Former Vice President and Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, PwC Philippines
Chairman Emeritus Atty. Alexander Cabrera, and Former Bureau of Customs Commissioner Gen. Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero (Ret.).
Drawing from her experience in Naga City and as the country’s former Vice President, Robredo underscored that governance rooted in integrity and citizen participation is key to restoring trust. She recalled how Naga institutionalized participatory budgeting and people’s councils long before it became a national model.
“Every peso stolen is a peso stolen from our future,” she said. “Good governance is not something we demand from the people—it is something we must earn every day.” Cabrera followed with a strong critique of how corruption undermines both public and private institutions, warning that it “destroys our name and steals our opportunities.” He called for stronger enforcement, leadership accountability, and protection for those who choose to expose wrongdoing. Meanwhile, Gen. Guerrero reminded participants that while digitalization enhances transparency and efficiency, “true reform requires leaders with competence, character, and commitment.” He emphasized that technology can strengthen systems, but only values-driven leadership can sustain transformation.
The final plenary on Foundations of Reform: Voices from the Governance and Service Champions shifted the spotlight to institutions that have already walked the reform path.
Moderated by BGen. Joel M. Paloma (Ret.), Former Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Office for Strategic Studies and Strategy Management, the session featured governance champions from defense, health, and the private sector.
Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., AFP Chief of Staff, shared how the AFP’s adoption of the Performance Governance System (PGS), ISA’s governance framework, has fundamentally reshaped its culture, embedding discipline, transparency, and professionalism across the ranks.
“The adoption of the PGS significantly shaped our culture and way of working,” Gen. Brawner said, noting how the framework strengthened the AFP’s alignment with its vision of a credible, effective, and service-driven military organization.
Meanwhile, Dr. Gerardo Manzo, Former Deputy Executive Director of the Philippine Heart Center, affirmed that “good governance cannot be business as usual” but “a journey that transforms institutions and lives,” emphasizing how ISA’s partnership has strengthened the health sector’s capacity to deliver accessible and accountable public service. From the private sector, BDO Foundation President Mario A. Deriquito emphasized that reform endures through collaboration, saying that public-private sector partnership goes beyond cooperation and reflects a shared commitment to nation-building. Meanwhile, PHINMA Corporation Chairman and CEO Ramon R. del Rosario Jr. connected education and governance, saying that “good education is the foundation of good citizenship” and the strongest safeguard against corruption.
In the photo, from left, are Commission on Filipino Overseas Undersecretary Ma. Arlene Borja, RCBC President and CEO Reggie Cariaso, Meridian Co-Founder and CEO Will Haering, Department of Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda, RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovations and Inclusion Officer Lito Villanueva, Meridian Co-Founder and President Bradley Riss, and US Embassy Senior Commercial Officer Paul Taylor.
Korean chicken craze now part of Bounty Fresh’s baon treats
DID you know that preparing packed meals for loved ones is a cherished Asian tradition? All over the continent—in Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and, of course, the Philippines—packing food for someone is tender loving care in action and reflects the affectionate nature of people who value family ties and warm friendships.
Cooking food and putting together “take-outs” are a distinct Filipino love language. Besides frequently asking “Kumain ka na ba?” preparing lunchboxes or take-out snacks are ways to look after our favorite people.
Last August, Bounty Fresh introduced K-Fried Chikin, a new chicken treat that satisfies cravings for Korean flavors and would be great to pack in a Korean dosirak or a Pinoy lunch bag.
Inspired by the Pinoy fascination with all things Korean, Bounty Fresh’s K-Fried Chikin is a saucy, meaty, 100% all-natural crunchy fried chicken—just the way Koreans love their chicken. Enjoyable both at the dinner table or as a packed meal, it comes in two flavors, BBQ and Sweet Vinegar. It is Bounty’s first-ever, ready-to-cook Korean-inspired chicken treat.
It contains only 0.1mg of sodium, meeting the FDA standards for low-sodium food, which is set at 0.1mg. Everything else is naturally flavored, so K-Fried Chikin is both tasty and nutritious. There’s no need to thaw it too because it’s ready to fry. Either as a home-cooked meal or as a packed goodie on the go, K-Fried Chikin is easy to prepare.
This new product joins the other Bounty Fresh Products in its Basta Baon line: the breaded chicken products (nuggets, sticks, popcorn chicken, chomps), pre-seasoned meats (tapa, tocino, longganisa, and chorizo), and premium high-quality eggs.
“Bounty Fresh has always admired the generous, caring nature of Filipino moms and homemakers. That’s why we want to help them by introducing easy-to-prepare, high-quality food that they can provide any time of day to their loved ones,” said Stephanie Balois-Guerrero, Vice President for Marketing of Bounty Plus Inc. “This new Korean fried chicken is the latest addition to the Baon line and adds an exciting new flavor to the mix.”
The Bounty Fresh K-Fried Chikin is available at bountyfreshmarket.ph and in leading supermarkets nationwide.
Managing diabetes as a family: Smart choices begin at home
DIABETES is more than a medical diagnosis.
It is a daily journey that can impact every member of the family. For parents, understanding diabetes—whether for oneself, a spouse, a child, or an aging parent—is essential. Every choice, especially in the grocery store, shapes not just your health but the future wellbeing of loved ones. How we shop, cook, and set habits at home becomes a form of care, prevention and protection.
The family kitchen is where healthy habits begin. With diabetes on the rise among Filipino adults and children, parents need to recognize the role of food in blood sugar control and overall wellness. Planning meals and learning to read nutrition labels teach children lifelong skills to nourish themselves in every stage of life.
Whether you are preparing a weekly grocery run, placing online orders, or just grabbing a quick bite, each decision is an opportunity to help everyone at home maintain better health. Food choices matter for kids (whose eating patterns shape future risks), adults (who juggle work and health), and elders (who may already be managing chronic conditions). Making healthy habits visible at home creates a supportive space for all family members.
Below are family-friendly strategies to manage diabetes:
1. PLAN BEFORE YOU SHOP Create a weekly meal plan and grocery list together. This reduces impulse buys and keeps everyone accountable to the diabetes care plan. Involve children in planning to teach them about balanced eating and thoughtful choices. Planning ahead also cuts down on food waste and upholds consistent meal routines.
2. NAVIGATE THE AISLE WISELY Help every family member fill their plate with fiber-rich, nutrient-dense foods that help regulate blood sugar. Local staples like malunggay (moringa), kangkong (water spinach), and okra are abundant and nutritious. Show children why brown rice or adlai—local grains with lower glycemic index (GI) and higher fiber—are better choices than white rice. For protein, include plant-based options like mung beans and tofu, and teach kids to enjoy wholesome snacks like yoghurt, dried fruits, almonds, and whole grain crackers.
3
. CHOOSE HEALTHY BEVERAGES Teach your children to skip sodas, powdered juices, and sweetened teas, opting instead for water, salabat (ginger tea), or infusions with lemon and cucumber. Staying hydrated builds good habits and keeps blood sugar stable.
4. READ NUTRITION LABELS CAREFULLY Make label-reading a family routine. Focus on total carbohydrates, fiber, and added sugars. Talk about portion sizes, servings per container, and what it means for glucose absorption. Look for higher protein and fiber content to support sustained energy. Guide kids and teens to notice the differences in foods and why it matters, fostering independence for their future choices.
5. PRIORITIZE LOW-GI FOODS Whole grains like oats, green leafy vegetables, legumes, beans, and unsweetened dairy help the entire family. If a family member requires nutritional supplements, like Glucerna, choose those with low-GI carbohydrate blends that provide gradual glucose release for sustained blood sugar support.
6. AVOID MARKETING TRAPS Explain to kids and elderly relatives that labels like “sugar-free” or “low-fat” can be deceiving. Teach everyone to read the full nutrition label and recognize hidden sugars or calories before picking a product.
Dr. Gamaliel Tayao, global healthcare giant Abbott’s head of medical affairs in the Philippines,
highlights, “By making informed, intentional choices, you’re not just filling your cart—you’re investing in your health. From the grocery aisle to the dining table, selecting foods rich in protein, fiber and low glycemic index carbohydrates can help stabilize blood sugar and sustain energy. Start small, stay consistent, and let your next grocery run be the first step toward a healthier, more empowered you.”
For parents, every trip to the grocery is a teachable moment. Children watch how we choose, cook and eat. Turning food shopping into a collaborative activity encourages discussion about health, helps everyone understand portions and nutrients, and empowers even young children to recognize what goes in their bodies.
Consistency is key. Start small: introduce one new healthy food each week, try cooking together, and celebrate small wins, like swapping sugary snacks for fresh fruit. Share tips from trusted sources like Glucerna and build your confidence in managing diabetes as a family unit.
Diabetes management is not an individual task but a family opportunity to build strong habits, support each other, and thrive. Shop smart, cook together, and keep the lines of communication open. By making intentional choices, families can enjoy meals that are wholesome, balanced, and supportive of long-term well-being.
For more tips, tools, and inspiration to shop smarter and manage diabetes confidently, visit https://tinyurl.com/ypf53w52.
Holiday traditions shine brighter as Shangri-La Plaza lights up its grand Christmas tree
AT popular upscale lifestyle destination
Shangri-La Plaza, the annual Grand Tree
Lighting ceremony happened on November 15, 6 pm, at the Grand Atrium—but not just with the simple flick of a switch. Shang invited everyone to witness the anticipated event presented through A Symphony of Sparkle, the poignant musical narrative highlighting a season abounding with traditions of songs and splendor, gatherings, giving, and child-like wonder.
With Farley Asuncion as its musical director and Rory Fortich as its musical arranger, the spectacle combined music, dance, narration, and multimedia, scored live by a band and orchestra, with each act spotlighting elements of Filipino Christmas, including caroling and Simbang Gabi with family to create a magical experience. An evening of musical storytelling unfolded, featuring the Philippine Madrigal Singers, the Manila String Machine, singers Johann Enriquez and Sheena Lee Palad, and captivating performances by the Speed Dancers and Ballet Manila.
On the same day, Gucci added to the holiday’s high spirits with an exclusive event where guests enjoyed a first look at the Cruise 2026 Collection, paired with cocktails specially curated by Michelin Selected restaurant Juniper by Josh Boutwood.
The season is indeed merry, shining even brighter with the Shang decking its halls in iconic holiday décor. This year’s décor story fuses crystal brilliance with timeless ornaments, thoughtfully arranged to appear as if the elements were floating midair, highlighted by a massive Christmas tree
installation suspended at the center. A backdrop of vivid gold and green sets the stage for a richness of nostalgia, elevated through Shang’s luxurious and festive touches. The result is a warm, multi-sensory experience filled with glowing lights, visual wonder, and an enchanting holiday charm. Exciting events and activities follow the Grand Tree Lighting as Christmas at the Shang goes full swing.
The exciting Wishes & Wheels: Holiday Raffle Promo starts on November 15. Prizes include the Hybrid Lexus LBX for a single receipt worth P2,500 and up.
A lineup of wonderful performances lifts the spirits this December with Christmas Ensembles: Weekend Showcases of Motion and Melody. Make sure to catch the sweet serenades of the OB
Montessori Greenhills on December 12, Ateneo Boys Choir on December 13, Studio Dance by Lina on December 14, St. Theresa’s College Quezon City on December 20, and the Mandaluyong Children’s Choir on December 21.
December 26 presents even more great shopping experiences with Shangri-La Plaza’s Boxing Day Sale. Get the chance to grab what you missed during the holiday rush and at discounted prices.
Finally, bid goodbye to 2025 and welcome the New Year with the Encore of Lights fireworks display on December 30, 8 pm, at the Streetscape. More information can be found at facebook.com/ shangrilaplazaofficial, and @shangrilaplazaofficial on Instagram.
SETTING the tone of the tree lighting ceremony was Ballet Manila, with their dancers’ gracious performances that captivated the audience
SHANGRI-LA Plaza’s annual Grand Tree Lighting ceremony
THE Philippine Madrigal Singers serenaded guests with nostalgic Christmas tunes during the tree lighting event
Pros Marcial, Mindoro add beef to SEAG boxing team
TWO pros—Tokyo Olympics
bronze medalist Eumir Felix
Marcial and unbeaten but never a national team member Weljon Mindoro—form part of the national boxing team to the Thailand 33rd Southeast Asian Games.
Marcial, 30 and unbeaten in seven fights, and Mindoro, 15-0 and scathed only by one draw, were presented to the media by Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino on Wednesday afternoon.
“Full of potential,” said Tolentino of the two pros who are part of the 13-member team (seven men and six women) that the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) is sending to Thailand.
“ We would like to thank Mr. Sean Gibbons [MP Promotions head] and their managers for lending them to the national team,” Tolentino said. “It gives us the opportunity for a podium finish in boxing, but of course we want the gold. This is for the country.”
Marcial is coming off a majority decision win over Venezuela’s Eddy Colmenares last October 28 during the “Thrilla in Manila 2” at the Smart Araneta Coliseum but because he suffered two knockdowns, he had to undergo concussion protocol.
“ Twenty-five days no sparring,” Marcial, now the World Boxing Council international middleweight champion, told reporters in a restaurant inside Capital Commons in Pasig City. “Only gym training and nothing more. But I’ll be ready in time for the SEA Games.” Marcial will be fighting at light heavyweight or 80 kgs in Bangkok.
M indoro will be campaigning at 75 kgs (middleweight) in his first stint with the national team.
“I campaigned in the Palarong Pambansa and Batang Pinoy and earned medals, but I wasn’t really scouted by the ABAP,” Mindoro said. “It’s been my dream to be in the national team so I am excited.” POC secretary-general Atty. Wharton Chan and ABAP secretary-general Marcus Jarwin Manalo graced the press conference with the boxing official announcing the other the members of the men’s team—Jay Bryan Barquarto (48 kgs), Marvin Tabamo (51 kgs), Flint Jara (54 kgs), Ian Clark Bautista (57 kgs) and Junmilardo Ogayre (60 kgs).
Carlo Paalam, who won silver in Tokyo 2020, didn’t make the team after falling ill during the selection period for the SEA Games, but Paris 2024 bronze medalist Aira Villegas is in the list for the women’s 50 kgs class as well as Tokyo silver medalist Nesthy Petecio (60 kgs). Also in the women’s roster Ofelia Magno (48 kgs), Risa Pasuit (57 kgs) and Paris Olympian Hergie Bacyadan (70 kgs).
PBBM: Sports brings country together
Sports
PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the grand reopening of the newlyrefurbished facilities at the PhilSports Complex in Pasig City on Wednesday, hailing the upgrades as a vital investment in national development and a renewed commitment to sports excellence.
But the President went deeper in his approach for sports.
“I consider sports important for very, very many things…not only the glory it brings to our country and the pride it brings for every Filipino. It
brings the country together,” President Marcos said in his keynote address.
“There’s no other activity that builds character better than sports, especially for young people,” added Marcos in opening the Philippine Sports Commission facilities that include the relocated and modernized National Sports Museum.
With the President were First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and their son, Philippine Ambassador for Sports Vinny Marcos, as well as PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Philippine
EUMIR FELIX MARCIAL (center) and Weljon Mindoro (second from left) with (from left) Philippine Olympic Committee secretary-general Atty. Wharton Chan and president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and boxing secretary-general Marcus Jarwin Manalo. POC PHOTO
Paralympic Committee president Mike Barredo, Filipino Olympians, national athletes and key sports officials.
Also present were Education Secretary Sonny Angara, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Dave Gomez, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. chairman Al Tengco, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office General Manager Mel Robles, Deputy Social Secretary Dina Arroyo-Tantoco and Reps. Mike Dy and Roman Romulo.
Gregorio expressed his gratitude to the First Family, describing the reopening as a pivotal moment for Philippine sports.
“My focus is only three things—athletes’ welfare, facilities management and sports tourism. Thank you for supporting us on all counts—all out,” Gregorio said. “Your consistency and sincerity is deeply felt.”
Also inaugurated was the newly renovated National Athletic Center (formerly the weight training area) and Dorm H, which now offers upgraded, athlete-friendly accommodations to support training and recovery.
Also in attendance were Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo and PSC commissioners Olivia “Bong” Coo, Edward Hayco, Fritz Gaston and Walter Torres.
T he President shared personal reflections, recalling how his late father, President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., encouraged him to try various sports growing up, an experience that shaped his appreciation for discipline, resilience and teamwork.
“This is an inspiration beyond this generation. Sports writes history,”
Gregorio said. “This is a legacy we will care for and see through.”
“From grassroots to gold, from gold to greatness. Our battle cry. Our people’s story. Your winning legacy,” he added.
Gregorio emphasized that the enhancements along with other ongoing renovations aim to transform the PhilSports Complex into a premier training ground and competition venue for both local and international events.
Gregorio likened the unity of partner agencies involved in the facilities to the spirit of competitive cycling.
“People think cycling is an individual sport, but it is not. In a breakaway, the lead is protected by its teammates to reduce the drag,” he said. “At the right moment, they open up and the leaders sprint to the finish. That is the beauty of sports and how the Filipino people will win.” With Samuel Medinilla and Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
Corpus goes solo atop leaderboard with 7-under 65
Van der Valk, meanwhile, outgunned Corpus early with five birdies in their backside duel but cooled off with a threebirdie, two-bogey run coming home—his 66 still lifted him into a share of sixth though at 141 with Fidel Concepcion (70), Ryan Monsalve (69) and Tae Won Ha (72).
Go, Bisera in contention amid tough conditions in Party Golfers Open
LK GO and Florence Bisera battled through biting cold and swirling winds to salvage identical 72s after overcoming a pair of double bogeys to place themselves in early contention at four strokes behind local favorite Ho Yu An at the start of the Party Golfers Ladies Open on Wednesday in Taiwan. Go wobbled right out of the gate at the Lily Golf and Country Club in Hsinchu with a bogey on the opening hole, but the Filipina steadied herself quickly with four birdies against a lone bogey over the next eight holes to make the turn at one-under.
A s temperatures dropped and the winds picked up on the back nine, she faced a tougher challenge as she dropped shots on Nos. 13, 15 and 16.
But she sandwiched those miscues with birdies on Nos. 14 and 17 to close with a 34-38 card on the par 35-37 layout marked by sharp elevation changes and exposed fairways.
Bisera, who started on No. 10, also endured a rollercoaster round—a
REMEMBER Victor “Rambo” Sanchez of the Tanduay Rhum Makers when the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) franchise was still owned by the Elizaldes?
He was the favorite teammate of his Tanduay buddies, the
promising approach on the par-five 11th turned into a costly double bogey after topping her pitch-in birdie attempt.
A bogey on the 13th then pushed Bisera near the tail end of the 102-player field but the Davaoeña refused to crack and bounced back with consecutive birdies from No. 14 and strung together three more birdies against two bogeys on her closing nine to match Go’s 34-38 round and join a logjam for eighth place.
“My pitch-in birdie were around the green,” said Bisera on her early miscue. “I will just stick to my game plan and do my best on every shot.”
Despite the harsh weather, Go and Bisera positioned themselves well entering the second round, standing just four shots behind An, who fired a 68 powered by a four-birdie spree over a six-hole stretch from No. 13.
An holds a one-stroke lead over Thai veteran PK Kongkraphan and another Taiwanese contender, Yu Hsin Huang, who matched 69s.
Physical, gritty, street smart and tough as nails, he was the ultimate enforcer. And also endearingly funny. Today’s Gen Z, and Milennial audiences may not have heard of Vic Sanchez at all. Or even of the Tanduay Rhum Makers— who were the PBA team of the storied YCO Painters of the MICAA (Manila Industrial and Commercial Athletic Association) amateur era that had a 40-game winning streak through four years and made basketball history by winning seven consecutive National Open Championships, seven MICAA titles and the first grand slam in Philippine basketball. But just to bring everyone up to date, Tanduay was a very, very popular PBA team in the second half of the 80s that strung up a series of championships against powerhouse Great Taste Coffee (a Gokongwei franchise) and archrival Ginebra San Miguel.
Tucked into the battle between Rum and Gin ran a side rivalry between former Toyota teammates Ramon Fernandez and Robert “The Big J” Jaworski who had joined Tanduay and GSM respectively, after Toyota disbanded.
Fans who idolized either player fueled the rivalry and made the 1986 All Filipino Conference championship a rip-roaring showdown.
This was how that game went, per Wikipedia: “Ramon Fernandez set up Victor Sanchez...to put the Rhum Makers ahead, 77–76. Another pass by Fernandez, this time (to) Ely Capacio, who completed a three-point play, gave the Rhum
Makers a four-point edge at 80–76. Tanduay was up 91–85 on Fernandez’ jumper with 1:33 remaining, but Ginebra playing coach Robert Jaworski wouldn’t give up on the fight and scored five of the Gins’ seven straight points, including a brilliant threepoint play off Freddie Hubalde that turned the game around as Ginebra grabbed the upper hand at 92–91.
A timeout was called by Tanduay and on the inbound play in the last 18 seconds, Jaworski almost completed a steal but Freddie Hubalde recovered the ball and took a court-tocourt drive to draw a foul from Jaworski with six seconds left, Hubalde converted his two free throws to give the Rhum Makers a 93–92 lead with time down to six seconds. On the final play after a Ginebra timeout, Jaworski went straight to the hoop and muffed a hurried drive that didn’t hit the rim, JB Yango held on to the ball as the buzzer sounded.”
That was an unforgettable championship for the Rhum Makers who just a few months before had won the Reinforced Conference with imports Rob Williams and Andre McCoy. November 13, some members of that champion team—Onchie de la Cruz, Padim Israel, Willie Generalao and JB Yango—got together at the Sta.Rosa home of former basketball referee turned sports patron Charlie Bonilla to fete balikbayan “Rambo” Sanchez and, you guessed it, relive that All Filipino adventure.
At the get together that was also attended by PBA legends Elmer
“This course fits me. I’m also very familiar, very comfortable playing here—I know where to hit and miss,” Corpus said. “I think everything’s going my way this week. Hopefully, in the next two days, I’ll do the same.” After a two-birdie, two-bogey start on the back nine, Corpus reignited his round with a spectacular eagle on No. 17, launching a solid hybrid from 240 yards that cleared a tree and setting up a 30-foot putt. He used that momentum to dominate the frontside, rattling off three straight birdies from No. 3 before delivering another highlight: a superb 4-iron from 207 yards on the par-5 seventh that settled 27 feet away. He rolled in the downhill putt for another eagle to
Reyes of San Miguel, Amang Ladores of Filmanbank, Tanduay teammate Jerry Pingoy, Jose Rizal’s Joey Viduya and Purefoods’ liaison man Jojo Peralta, on court and behind the scenes moments came back to life as if the game had been played only yesterday. Generalao’s passing miscues, De La Cruz’s derring-dos, Israel’s toughest defense assignments and Yango’s always cool, seemingly nonchalant but tough behavior were revisited. Rambo recalled his numerous fouls and “those that got away.” I t was a shoot-the-breeze kind of afternoon and laughter—no, guffaws—came
Envoys&Expats
THE DELEGATION’S ‘MAESTRO’
How Ambassador Santoro orchestrates the European Union’s ‘diplomatic opera’
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
AMBASSADOR Massimo
Santoro, the European Union’s envoy to the Philippines, doesn’t just represent 27 nations—conducting them like a grand opera company.
In Manila, where diplomacy demands both discipline and artistry, Santoro has become the “maestro” of sorts of a sprawling ensemble, ensuring that every voice—from the sopranos of sustainability to the tenors of security—blends into one resonant performance.
After spending more than seven years at the EU headquarters in Brussels, he deliberately chose Asia as his next stage.
“I wish to be [here], because I didn’t know it,” he recalls.
Now, he leads a delegation of 43 personnel in Manila, supported by a chorus of 19 resident embassies of Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Hungary, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Finland, Sweden, and Norway.
Together, they form a formidable diplomatic opera troupe, reinforcing Manila’s role as one of Asia’s most important European stages.
The art of consensus: An opera without discord
SANTORO’S “maestro” title was given in jest, but it fits well.
Asked how he manages the complexities of coordinating 27 nations, he simply laughed a bit: “Wow…for myself, that’s torture.
[And I seem to] love that.”
Like an opera conductor, his role is not to silence, but to synchronize. He describes EU’s ambassadors in Manila as “very strong and solid,” and rarely needing to call for a formal vote on matters of discussion or digression.
“I never have a single votation… it’s such a good dialogue,” he quips.
This mirrors the bloc’s broader foreign policy tradition. Under the Common Foreign and Security Policy, decisions are usually made by unanimity—every voice must sing the same note before the curtain rises.
In rare, exceptional cases, the EU allows qualified majority voting—a “different tempo”—where at least 55 percent of member states, and representing 65 percent of the EU’s population, must agree.
It is in this operatic discipline that Santoro thrives.
“The fact that the group is very compact is known to [our headquarters],” he explained. “This means that whenever I propose some possible ideas, they know these are already locally backed.” Policy in unison: A ‘libretto’ of values ON foreign policy, Santoro insists that unity is instinctive.
“By definition, around the table, all completely agree,” he says. “The debate is never about whether to act, but how.”
The EU’s stance is rooted in defending a rules-based international order. The EU envoy explains that “we are in favor of the international order—not anti-somebody.”
Whether addressing Russia’s aggression in Ukraine or tensions in the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea, the principle he says
remains consistent: “The same one anywhere.”
Here, the EU’s libretto is clear: The score is written in favor of law, and not unilateral improvization.
Before issuing statements on maritime disputes, the EU aligns with “like-minded” partners such as Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States—ensuring its “aria” is part of a larger ensemble, rather than a lone voice.
Mindanao: A development area SANTORO’S opera extends to Mindanao, where development cooperation is a central theme.
His “recipe for sustainability” blends public support with private investment: “Public grants are important, but long-term success is done by [our development partners].”
Since 2020, the EU has committed some €140 million worth of assistance to the Southern Philippines, underscoring the region’s importance.
His first mission trip there was like an overture, setting the tone for an extended performance. He witnessed firsthand how EU programs support normalization for former combatants in the Bangsamoro Region—helping them transition from conflict to livelihoods.
“Taken away from fighting and assigned to a specific project, they make their own money—thanks to something not related to fighting,” the EU envoy explained.
Cultural exchange:
The ambassador’s solo THE ambassador from Italy is equally passionate about making the EU accessible to Filipinos, especially the youth. His team travels to the provinces, engages with universities, and collaborates with influencers because, as he puts it, “social media is very important.”
A polyglot—fluent in Italian, English, French, and Russian—he has also begun learning Filipino.
“Mahirap, pero interesanteng wika (It’s a difficult language to learn, but interesting),” he says with a smile.
He admits the language’s complexity, with its numerous prefixes and infixes, poses a challenge, but learning them gives “meaningful respect for where you are.”
For him, diplomacy is not just a career, but “a kind of mission.” He thrives on interaction, as “I tend to be a very social person… it’s [all] about people.”
Outside the halls of diplomacy, Santoro has embraced Philippine life.
He has snorkeled with his family in Coron, Palawan, savored Baguio’s strawberries, and even braved sampling durian by convincing himself that it tasted like cheese.
He laughs about Filipino sweetstyle spaghetti—“an abomination”—but celebrates the opening of a Filipino fast-food chain branch in the City of Milan as “another aspect of the Filipinos’ footprint.”
In all, Santoro’s work is less about wielding power, but rather on orchestrating harmony. Like an
opera conductor guiding a troupe, he ensures that each of the EU’s 27 voices in the country sings in
tune—never overpowering and always aligned. The melody is one of shared val -
ues, the rhythm is dialogue, and the performance is a diplomatic opera staged across continents.
UK backs record Maynilad IPO for Metro Manila’s water access
THE government of the United Kingdom’s (UK) Mobilist programme has invested $10 million (P586 million) in Maynilad Water Services’ initial public offering (IPO) on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE).
and sustainable development.
This is MOBILIST’s second investment in the country, following its support for Citicore Renewable Energy Corporation’s IPO in 2024.
sustainable development and climate transition.
Furthering the bloc: PHL’s upcoming Asean chairship
By Josue Raphael J. Cortez
LEADERS of the region’s member states, along with Timor Leste’s, gathered anew in Malaysia—this year’s chair—for the much-anticipated Asean Summit.
It was also expected that during the conference, a document outlining steps to peace between Thailand and Cambodia will be signed, as well as the formal accession of Timor-Leste—widening the bloc’s membership to 11.
and upskilling are still lacking, thus placing innumerable workers in peril. With our context in mind, there is no doubt Filipinos can share their best practices on ensuring that digitalization-related goals are met, while also ascertaining that the welfare of their labor force is not neglected.
According to the Embassy of the UK, MOBILIST was a cornerstone investor in the IPO, which is one of the biggest in the PSE’s history. Maynilad serves more than 9 million people in the West Zone of Metro Manila, providing sustainable water and wastewater services. The capital from the IPO will be used to upgrade and expand the city's water infrastructure, including smart sensor networks that will help precisely identify locations with maintenance needs for more effective water-supply management.
MOBILIST joins other key investors, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and international private sector partners. For the embassy, the investment shows that large-scale infrastructure companies in the Philippines can successfully raise capital through public markets, enabling funding for sectors like water infrastructure, renewable energy,
Ambassador Sarah Hulton OBE of the UK said: “I am proud that the Philippines is the first country in the world where MOBILIST has invested in two listings. With this investment, the UK is not just financing one water utility. Through MOBILIST, we are creating a template for innovative development finance, demonstrating how public markets can unlock investment in critical infrastructure, sustainable development and climate adaptation.”
Mobilizing private capital
MOBILIST has maintained a strong partnership with the Philippines, working with the PSE since 2023, to support the country’s capital market development and the use of listed products to mobilize private capital toward
As the Philippines tops the World Risk Index for the third consecutive year, the UK is partnering with the Philippines to mitigate climate change impact. This includes initiatives on climate adaptation and sustainability across multiple sectors that include renewable energy and the blue economy.
The UK and the Philippine government are also partnering on the EMDE Public Markets Coalition launched last July at the United Nation’s Fourth Financing for Development Conference or FFD4 in Seville. The coalition, the Norwegian government, the African Development Bank and others, will develop a toolkit for multilateral development banks, development finance institutions, and investors to facilitate greater investment in emerging markets and developing economies or EMDEs through public markets, aimed at unlocking development finance at scale.
In the case of the Philippines, this event was seen as momentous, as it will witness the transition of the chairship toward Manila. Amid the rotating tradition of steering Asean meetings, there is no better time for us to assume the post than now, as the country can be considered as one of the epicenters of geopolitical scholarship today. With the looming great power competition between the US and China, our chairship will certainly be a defining moment because this time, we cannot just steer discussions, but also, trailblaze the way Asean can effectively navigate the pressing time we are in.
Experts are already expecting that under our leadership, maritime entitlements and how freedom of navigation can be furthered will serve as the center of discussions among our neighbors and partners. However, one needs to be reminded that aside from facilitating such discourses, the Philippines is also keen toward shaping a regional framework for adoption and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI). This is something overshadowed by other perennial challenges, but very much integral, especially in the Asean context.
The Philippines, known for its human capital and the services it provides to the rest of the world, certainly has the potential to begin the debates for a pan-Asean framework on AI. The rapid development of AI tools can be a boon or a bane to the economic growth the region currently enjoys. Standards on retooling
With the ties we share, both with the US and China—key players in the ongoing AI race—the Philippines, through the position it will assume, may bring forth the solution to innovation-related problems confronting the region’s industries. It may maximize its chairship to harness the capabilities of Southeast Asians by providing them with a framework that would enhance our regional competitiveness, while ensuring that no one will be left behind in the process.
No doubt, should this be put into realization under our chairship, alongside other milestones we aim to achieve, the Philippines will not simply be a peacemaker. More importantly, it will forge an Asean that is a trailblazer, spearheading solutions for the betterment of its citizens, and the rest of the Global South.
(The author is a full-time faculty member of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s School of Diplomacy and Governance. Aside from teaching, he also serves as the practicum coordinator of its Diplomacy and International Affairs Program. Specializing in the European Union and Asean for his further studies at the Ateneo de Manila University, his research interests include Regionalism, Discourse on Collective identities, and Efforts on Artificial Intelligence in regional blocs.)
EU, PHL conduct 5th subcommittee confab on good governance, rule of law & human rights
THE European Union (EU) and the Philippines convened last month in Brussels the fifth subcommittee meeting on Good Governance, Rule of Law, and Human Rights under the two’s Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA). The meeting was co-chaired by the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Assistant Secretary for European Affairs Deena Joy D. Amatong and Acting Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific Paola Pampaloni of the European External Action Service. Representatives from EU member states and Philippine government agencies were in attendance.
The EU and the Philippines reaffirmed their shared commitment to human rights, the rule of law, due process, and good governance. They condemned reported violations of human rights and international humanitarian law worldwide. Amid rising geopolitical tensions, both sides emphasized their shared responsibility to uphold and promote the principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter.
The two acknowledged their common efforts to fight corruption. The EU welcomed the Philippines’ efforts to strengthen transparency, accountability and good governance. Both sides acknowledged that addressing corruption is not only key to enhancing public trust, but also critical to attracting foreign and domestic investment, ensuring efficient public services and supporting inclusive development.
For its part, the Philippines underscored its continued adherence to international human rights standards and its openness to construc-
tive engagements with international bodies of the UN. It informed the EU on their upcoming mid-term report and on the progress made in implementing the recommendations from the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review. The latter encouraged the country to continue extending invitations to UN Special Procedures Mandate Holders. As the Philippines will take on the Asean Chairship in 2026, the two sides restated their mutual commitments to strengthen cooperation between the EU and the Asean Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights or AICHR.
On human rights
THE Philippines presented its fourth National Action Plan on Human Rights, as well as activities carried out by the Special Committee on Human Rights Coordination or SCHRC to sustain the gains from the UN Joint Programme for Human Rights (UNJP).
Both sides agreed on the importance of ensuring the Philippine Commission on Human Rights, nongovernment organizations and civil society groups’ involvement in the action plan and the committee’s work implementation. The EU supports and encourages the Philippines in efforts to legislate the adoption of the charter on the National Commission for Human Rights. The EU and the Philippines underscored their strong condemnation of alleged extra-judicial killings and underscored the need to provide remedies for victims, fight impunity and hold perpetrators accountable. The country presented progress made in ongoing police and justice
reforms, as well as jail decongestion, then highlighted major steps toward establishing an independent National Forensic Institute. The bloc expressed its appreciation that pending the passage of a law, mandatory autopsies are being conducted for cases involving death under suspicious circumstances.
The two committed to protect human rights defenders against violence, harassment, and redtagging, then provide an enabling environment for civil society. They agreed that anti-terrorism legislation should not be used to restrict legitimate activities of civil society, human rights defenders and journalists, but must ensure justice and protection for victims of terrorism.
They discussed the issue of enforced disappearances and the need to swiftly investigate all cases. The bloc cited the report on the decline of alleged cases of enforced disappearances. The country shared its continued conduct of a rapid intervention mechanism with the training and deployment of prosecutors nationwide under the Administrative Order (AO) 35 program. The Philippines noted the EU’s recommendation to sign, ratify and implement even with reservations the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances.
Press freedom
THE EU and the Philippines cited the value of freedom of opinion and expression, media and information pluralism, both online and offline, and digital rights.
They committed to taking steps to respect, protect and promote these
rights, ensuring that media practitioners can operate in a safe and supportive environment. The country discussed its efforts to review and adapt libel and cyber-libel laws. Both deplored the killings of journalists.
The Philippines discussed its actions taken on the reported deaths of Erwin "Boy Pana” Segovia, Juan “Johnny” Dayang and Ali Macalintal. It also provided updates on the case of Maria Ressa, then shared that it continues to ensure freedom of expression through its rapid intervention mechanism mandated under AO1 and AO35 using an inter-agency approach.
The two sides agreed on the importance of a human rights-based approach to combating illegal drug use. Both sides agreed on the need to regularly review the effectiveness of drug policies and ensure their alignment with global human-rights standards. The latter shared details about work to adopt a policy on a public health and human rights-based approach to addressing the drug issue. It provided updates on the ongoing court case following the murder of Spanish citizen Diego Bello.
The two parties agreed on the importance of ensuring that businesses respect human rights, including when their activities are in sensitive sectors such as extractive industries and the digital sector. The EU presented its measures to promote business and human rights, including legislation, and encouraged the Philippines to adopt a National Action Plan on Business and Human rights, guaranteeing the meaningful involvement of local communities and indigenous
peoples in projects affecting them.
Justice served
BOTH tackled current efforts to boost access to justice for all through the “Enabling Justice and Rule of Law in the Philippines” program. It aims to strengthen the justice sector, bolster effective justice institutions, ensure access to justice for vulnerable groups, address any possible misuse of law, reduce prison congestion, establish restorative practices, and promote an evidence-based approach to justice.
They stressed the need to ensure fair trial and detention conditions and the reintegration in society after serving sentences. Both will still collaborate to address the challenges in the social reintegration of persons coming out of jail and prison, and for other criminal justice clients to reduce recidivism and enhance public safety.
Both sides recognize the impactful contributions of international partners and civil society organizations in the promotion of good governance, rule of law, human rights, and seek their continued cooperative interventions.
The EU and the Philippines reiterated their continuing compliance with the second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights on the abolition of the death penalty. The bloc urged the country to accelerate and finalize its work to establish a national preventive mechanism against torture.
The officials discussed the rights of women, children, persons with disabilities, migrants and refugees, indigenous peoples and the LGBTIQ+
community. Both sides exchanged views on the adoption of legislation on anti-discrimination and access to health and other social support services.
The EU and the Philippines reaffirmed their shared commitment to protect children online and offline, grounded in a victim-centered, childrights–based approach and the rule of law. Both agreed to deepen practical cooperation to prevent, detect, investigate, and prosecute online sexual abuse or exploitation of children through timely informationsharing, capacity-building, and closer links among justice, law enforcement, and social protection actors. The two parties committed to strengthen their work to promote and protect freedoms of association and assembly, decent work and fundamental labor rights, that include the protection of trade unionists and workers, also in the framework of the implementation of the General Scheme of Preferences or GSP+ and the ongoing EU-Philippines freetrade negotiations. They underscored the importance of combating human trafficking, which includes the context of scam centers. The Philippines also highlighted initiatives to protect the human rights of seafarers.
The EU and the Philippines also addressed other key issues of mutual concern, including climate change and environmental sustainability, plus the right to development. The latter presented its initiatives on the right to enjoy the benefits of scientific progress and its application. The next subcommittee meeting will take place in Manila next year.
CORTEZ
OFFICIALS from the British Embassy and Maynilad
Switzerland’s embassy marks PHL-wide ‘Day of the Future’ 3.0
THE Embassy of Switzerland in Manila successfully conducted the third edition of the “Day of the Future” on November 13 across the country.
Held every second Thursday of November, this year’s Day of the Future brought together Swiss companies, Filipino students, and educators for a nationwide celebration of career discovery and vocational inspiration.
The DOF is an annual initiative in Switzerland, known locally as Nationaler Zukunftstag, where young learners are immersed in real workplace environments to gain insights into future career paths. In the Philippines, the program is implemented under the Swiss Cultural Fund, which supports and promotes cultural, educational, and youth-focused initiatives.
Now in its third year in the local setting, the Day of the Future continues to expand its reach and impact. Along with the Embassy of Switzerland, the following Swiss companies simultaneously opened their doors to more public school students across the archipelago: Endress+Hauser, Roche Philippines, Holcim Philippines, Novartis Philippines, SGS, Partners Group and Sateco.
Each firm designed its own fullday program featuring workplace tours, interactive demonstrations, hands-on activities, and mentorship sessions, allowing learners to directly experience a variety of professional fields: from science and engineering
to finance, pharmaceuticals, and advanced manufacturing.
“More than a corporate social responsibility function of Swiss companies operating in the Philippines, we hope this tradition would eventually be embraced by more local firms. The Day of the Future is an ideal avenue for exposing our learners to formal office settings, while arousing their curiosity about professional life and appreciating the Swiss culture of work in the country,” said the embassy’s Senior Project Manager and Assistant to the Ambassador Diana Chan, who led the activity’s rollout in Partners Group.
These Philippine-based activities were conducted in parallel with the programs held in Switzerland, reinforcing the shared commitment of both countries to empowering the next generation.
This year’s Day of the Future was organized in close collaboration with the Department of Education, whose support was instrumental in selecting participating public schools nationwide and ensuring that students were able to fully engage in the day’s activities. It received the embassy’s appreciation for its continued partnership in strengthening educational opportunities for Filipino learners.
At its core, the Day of the Future aims to highlight the importance of vocational training—a cornerstone
of Switzerland’s globally recognized education system. By exposing young Filipinos to diverse professions and real-world work environments, the initiative seeks to broaden their career horizons and encourage them to explore multiple paths to success.
The Swiss Embassy and the Swiss
Cultural Fund remain committed to supporting youth development through programs that promote curiosity, practical learning, and future-ready skills. With each edition, the Day of the Future continues to grow as a meaningful bridge between Swiss expertise and Filipino potential, according to the embassy.
Deposit return system study expands, as inclusive model taps neighborhood stores, etc. in circular economy push
THE Royal Norwegian Embassy has released the second phase of the Deposit Return System (DRS) Feasibility Study in the Philippines.
In partnership with WWF Philippines and Earth Care Foundation, the project is in line with the interest of introducing DRS in the solid waste-management strategy of the Philippine government, following its initiative to implement the Extended Producer’s Responsibility (EPR) of 2022 to cut down plastic waste.
“Norway’s approach to circular economy policy emphasizes promoting a green transition through sustainable production, consumption, and waste reduction,” said Charge d’Affaires (CDA) Geir Michalsen of the Norwegian Embassy. “The Norwegian strategy prioritizes creating value through sustainable materials, fostering green competitiveness, and improving resource efficiency.”
Michaelsen confirmed that the efforts are closely aligned with the European Union’s Circular Economy Action Plan, “demonstrating a comprehensive commitment to sustainability and resource conservation.”
The CDA noted that the Philippines is increasingly adopting a circular economy model to address its significant waste-management issues, particularly plastic pollution. Key initiatives, he said, cover the launch of the National Plastic Action Partnership that fosters collaboration among stakeholders to develop innovative solutions.
ILO leads 1st national industry dialogue on sustainable aquaculture supply chains
PHILIPPINE labor and industry leaders, workers, employers, and policymakers, together with international partners, gathered for the first-ever National Industry Dialogue on Sustainable Aquaculture Supply Chains, where they discussed ways of improving the lives of aquaculture workers, while promoting responsible and sustainable growth in one of the country’s fastest-expanding food-producing sectors.
The event late in October, organized by the International Labour Organization (ILO) with support from the Government of Japan through the Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Supply Chains or RISSC Project, tackled challenges and initiatives to empower aquaculture workers through employment, livelihood, and training programs, as well as efforts to ensure decent work and eliminate child labor in the sector.
The dialogue closed with a common stand that development must be inclusive, that business growth must go hand in hand with workers’ welfare, and that decent work is the foundation of lasting prosperity for families and communities.
Present during the event as a manifestation of commitment to advancing sustainable and decent work in aquaculture were Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma, ILO Country Director Khalid Hassan, Ambassador Kazuya Endo
of Japan, United Nations Resident Coordinator to the Philippines Arnaud Peral, alongside partners from the Department of Agriculture, Department of Trade and Industry, and Food and Agriculture Organization.
According to the Embassy of Japan, the project aims to increase the productivity and sustainable development of the Philippine fishing industry by promoting decent work and protecting the dignity of workers.
For the embassy, the event stood as a testament to the strong and enduring partnership between Japan and the Philippines. It also reflects the former’s continued commitment to promoting decent work and supporting sustainable economic development in the country.
“Japan is proud to be among the largest voluntary contributors to the ILO for the Asia-Pacific region, having been implementing technical cooperation in the labor sector for over 50 years,” Endo said. “[The] discussions among stakeholders can foster an improved quality of life for workers in aquaculture. As a key industry, better practices in this sector are sure to drive more sustainable growth for the entire Philippine economy.”
In the subsequent session, the embassy’s First Secretary Yuki Suzuki discussed the expansion of social protection for vulnerable workers by highlighting examples and best practices from Japan.
Spanish Embassy’s Nov. cultural cavalcade to feature music, education, and literature
THE trifecta of music, education and literature take the spotlight as the Embassy of Spain, through its Cultural and Education offices and the Instituto Cervantes, has unfurled its cultural program for November.
Social behavioral change
A CRUCIAL component of a successful DRS model is transforming consumers’ habits. Each bottle and packaging material will have a standardized value and can be given back to the specific deposit stations in exchange for cash.
DRS replaces the “ balik deposito” system where the consumers would have to pay for the product, the container, and an additional “deposit” on top of the product purchased. This means the consumers will only pay for the amount of the product consumed if they are returned in designated points.
“The country is focusing on empowering local governments and communities to lead waste-reduction efforts, supported by grants and regulatory frameworks that facilitate transition,” he added. “The Philippines aims to prioritize reuse, recycling, and resource efficiency to achieve sustainable development and inclusive growth.”
There are also gaps for lack of solid waste-management infrastructure in many cities in the Philippines. The feasibility study discusses a hybrid model’s possible rollout using reverse vending machines and manual collection points such as the local “sari-sari” or neighborhood stores, local convenience stores or junk shops. These businesses serve as recycling hubs for waste collectors and pickers who earn their living by collecting garbage from every household, or pick the waste manually on dumpsites.
The feasibility study assesses the current solid waste management structure of the Philippines and integrates available infrastructure and resources into a national circular economy masterplan.
Pilot site and implementation
THE feasibility study’s next phase sets the criteria for the selection of a pilot testing site, where the initial stages of the DRS will take place in coordination with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit or GIZ. The pilot site will set the stage for a scalable national implementation through an evidence-based policy implementation in the next 16 to18 months.
The embassy is collaborating with TOMRA—a pioneer in establishing the Scandinavian country’s DRS models. It currently operates about 105,000 installations in over 100 markets worldwide. Its geographic footprint covers all continents, as the solutions provided are increasingly relevant for serving sustainable societies.
Spanish baritone Luis Llaneza is set to inspire young budding singers as he offers a master class at the University of Santo Tomás on November 14 and on November 19 at the Philippine Women's University, with an encore performance at UST when he performs on November 22. No cultural month will be complete without film showing. Spain will not only promote its film sector, but also support the Philippine movie industry as it takes part in QCinema: a 10-day international film festival beginning November 14.
In a country where nearly 30 percent of the total population are youth, young Filipino learners are encouraged to visit the European Higher Education Fair: a two-day event at Robinsons Manila’s Midtown Atrium starting November 21, where 13 top-notch Spanish universities will each set up a booth to offer young Filipinos a comprehensive overview of higher education opportunities in Spain.
Spain will also bring marine biologist Isabel Nuñez to three schools: Saint Pedro Poveda College, the University of the Philippines and Ever -
est Academy Manila, where she will talk about preservation of essential reef ecosystem services. On November 28, architects Juan Ramón Jiménez and Jesús Pulido will visit the National University where they will lead a conference entitled “Architecture and Urban Planning during the Spanish Period” that will highlight their works and studies on Intramuros, Parian, San Nicolás, Cavite, Cebu, and Davao, among others. Sound mind and sound body will be promoted by the Spanish women´s futsal team as they will entice young people to engage in sports. They are scheduled to meet and greet students, aimed at inspiring them and their peers as the team will compete against Thailand, Colombia and Canada at the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City on November 22, 25 and 28. Art buffs may still catch up on three on-going exhibits: “Four Centuries of Spanish Engineering Overseas”—a permanent exposition displayed at the Centro de Turismo in Intramuros; while the Ateneo Art Gallery hosts “A Synergy of Ventures: The Post War Art Scene” in commemoration of Fernando Zobel´s centennial birth anniversary until February 2026, as well as “Mezcla: Interwoven Cultures and the Mantón de Manila” at the Ayala Museum.
AMBASSADOR Dr. Nicolas Brühl welcomes the students from Makati High School, Makati Integrated School, and Gen. Pio del Pilar National High School at the Swiss Embassy as the day’s “junior ambassadors.”
REPRESENTATIVE Frederick Orticio from DepEd (second from left) together with Makati High School students.
REPRESENTATIVES from the Norwegian Embassy in Manila, DENR, DILG, DOST, PNBC, NordCham, PCCI, GIZ, UNDP, WWF Philippines, City of Samal, PARMS, Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, CCEAP, Cedarc, Century Chemical Corp., Chemrez Technologies, Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Inc., CV Solutions, Doxo Ingredients, Eco-business, ELC Beauty Inc, Greencycle Innovative Solutions, Holcim, International Finance Corp., Nestle Philippines Inc., PCX Solutions, Petron, Petvalue, Landbell Group, Republic Cement, Globe, SPIK Transworld, Petron Corp., Petvalue Philippines Corporation, Potian, Philippine Business for Social Progress Inc., Restore Solutions PH, SPIK, TNC Chemicals Phils. Inc, Lumbres, Toplun Plastic Corp.
AMB. Kazuya Endo (first row, sixth from left, onward), Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma and ILO Country Director Khalid Hassan and other sectoral stakeholders ALI CREO/DOLE-IPS
Thursday, November 20, 2025
GRACING BELENISMO The diplomatic corps’ officials and spouses gathered around the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Northern Luzon command’s “belen” display on November 15 at Camp Servillano Aquino in Tarlac City (not in particular order): Ambassador Christian Lyster of Norway, Mme. Catherine Lyster and Anna Lyster; Ambassador Nader Nabil Zaki Morcos of Egypt, Mme. Nancy Nancy Zikry Ramzy Abdelchahid, Nathalie Nader Nabil Zaki Morcos and Nadine Nader Nabil Zaki Morcos; Ambassador Anna Ferry of Sweden and Mr. Alex Ferry; Ambassador Johann Brieger of Austria and Mme. Roswitha Brieger; Ambassador Dr. iur. Nicolas Brühl of Switzerland and Mme. Prof. Dr. Denise Brühl-Moser; and Ambassador Dr. Smiljana Knez of Slovenia and Mr. Dušan Ropret. They were joined by Tarlac Heritage Foundation’s co-founders Doña Isabel Cojuangco-Suntay and Dra. Isa Suntay, together with Northern Luzon Command chief Lt. Gen. Aristotle Gonzalez and other officers. BERNARD TESTA
PAVING PATHWAYS FOR THE FUTURE The Swiss Embassy’s Senior Project Manager Diana Chan (right) presents a Certificate of Appreciation signed by Ambassador Dr. iur. Nicolas Brühl to Member of Management Israel Javier of Partners Group-Manila. The Switzerland-based global private markets and investments company’s
Embassies commit to cooperation, collective action to assist PHL after series of calamities
FOREIGN missions and the diplomatic community continue to manifest their solidarity with the Philippines in the light of successive calamities that struck recently.
The following are just some of the governments that recently provided timely assistance to the country:
The Embassy of Australia said its government is willing to provide AU$3 million (P115.9 million) in humanitarian assistance to support the Philippine response to Typhoons Tino and Uwan (international names Kalmaegi and Fung-Wong, respectively).
“The Philippines has endured a series of natural disasters over the last three months, including typhoons Tino and Uwan and the recent earthquakes, which have affected millions of Filipinos across the country.
As a reliable friend and Strategic Partner, Australia is well-positioned to provide in-country assistance to support the Philippine governmentled response. Australia’s humanitarian partners work closely at the local-level with government and civil society to ensure all efforts are coordinated, and assistance reaches those most in need.
Australia's assistance can provide in-country shelter, water sanitation and hygiene, health services and food assistance.” Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown said “Australia always stands ready to support the Philippines. We commend [its government] on their quick and extensive response to multiple disasters impacting millions of Filipinos. Australia is willing to work with the Phil-
ippine government where it is needed, as they continue their response efforts across the country.”
US provides emergency disaster assistance
IN the immediate aftermath of “Uwan,” the United States continues to answer the call for assistance from “one of our closest friends, partners, and allies: the Philippines.” Striking less than a week after the devastation of “Tino,” “Uwan” has further strained relief efforts on the ground. The US sustains its support of Philippine-led efforts to save lives, alleviate suffering, and address urgent needs.
To this end, the US is providing an additional $1.5 million (P87 million) in emergency, life-saving assistance in support of the Philippine government-led response, bringing the total response to the two superstorms to $2.5 million (P145 million), including support for logistics, emergency shelter, water, sanitation resources, and the management of evacuation centers.
“As millions of Filipinos face the challenges left by these overlapping disasters, including the Cebu earthquake in September, our continued rapid response stands as a testament to the depth of [our enduring ties with] the Philippines, especially in times of crisis,” the US Embassy said.
New Zealand commits P26M
FOR its part, the New Zealand government has pledged NZ$750,000 (approximately P26 million) in humanitarian assistance to help communities in the Philippines recover from recent disasters, including severe typhoons and a major earthquake that caused widespread damage and displacement, as announced by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade on November 13.
The support will be delivered through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to assist affected communities.
Regarding the assistance, Dr. Catherine McIntosh, who is New Zealand’s envoy to the Philippines, said, “Our hearts go out to the families and communities affected by these disasters. [We stand] with the Filipino people during this difficult time. This… contribution is about delivering timely, practical support to help communities recover.”
South Korea supports MEANWHILE, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea (South Korea) expressed its “heartfelt sympathy to all those affected by ‘Tino’ and ‘Uwan.’ Our thoughts are with the families
IN September 2023, Australia launched our blueprint for increasing two-way trade and investment with Southeast Asia in “Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040.” Invested 2040 was born out of a simple truth: that Australia’s security is linked to Southeast Asia’s economic prosperity. Now with over two years since the strategy’s launch, it is time to reflect on what we’ve achieved, and what more we can do.
and communities recovering from the extensive damage across the country.”
To support recovery efforts, the Korean government said it would provide $1 million in humanitarian assistance through the IFRC. We hope this support will help speed up relief operations and contribute to bringing affected communities back to normal as soon as possible.
The embassy said “Korea continues to stand by the Filipino people during this challenging time.”
Canada contributes SECRETARY of State for International Development Randeep Sarai—a recent visitor to the Philippines—said Canada is providing a total of CA$1.2 million or approximately P50.4 million to help severely affected communities recover from the disasters.
A portion of the aid is the CA$625,000 in funding that Canada earlier allocated to support the humanitarian work of three nongovernment organizations: World Vision, Philippine Red Cross, and Angat Buhay (Angat Pinas Inc.), in response to the devastation left by “Tino” and two major earthquakes in the Visayas and Mindanao.
The top-up fund will augment the recovery work in areas hit by “Uwan.”
“Canada stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the Philippines as friends and as family, as home to more than 1 million Filipino-Canadians,” Sarai said.
“This series of disasters has provided a heartbreaking reminder of how climate change can intensify the extreme weather that we face. The typhoons that you had after long periods of time are now quicker, faster and with more severity, and this is causing increasing damage and threatening lives…” he added. With a report from Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA
The international landscape has changed considerably since 2023, with increased uncertainty, unprecedented disruptions to global trade, and heightened geopolitical tensions. At times like these, we all need to increase and diversify our trade and investment networks. Strengthening our commercial engagement helps to sustain and increase regional prosperity and resilience.
Australia is committed to the rules-based multilateral trading system, while remaining a strong advocate for free, fair and open trade. As an Asean Dialogue Partner for over 50 years and a Strategic Partner to the Philippines, we are a reliable partner that this country, and Southeast Asia can count on.
Australia is fully committed to boosting economic ties with the Philippines. Our bilateral trade reached over P400 billion last year. Two-way investment also grew to nearly P300 billion in 2024, including Philippine investments in Australian renewable energy and port infrastructure.
This year, we successfully upgraded Asean’s highest quality trade agreement—the Agreement Establishing the Asean-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area, which will hike market access, reduce business costs, and foster greater trade and investment.
We are working hard to grow these numbers further. Our countries recently agreed to expand air services from 35 to 60 flights per week, with a further increase to 70 flights in 2026. In December, Jetstar will commence direct flights from Perth to Manila and establish a new Brisbane to Cebu route, strengthening our visitor economies. The opening of Western Sydney International Airport in 2026 will offer 24/7 operational flexibility to support Southeast Asia’s fast growing travel sector.
We’ve also improved visa access, including for Filipinos, by reducing red tape and making it easier for Southeast Asian companies to do business in Australia.
Australia’s Business Champion for the Philippines Shemera Wikramanayake launched “Invested: The Philippines to 2040–Opportunities and Pathways for Australian Investors.” This report explains to prospective Australian companies why they should invest here. It highlights the Philippines’ economic strengths, reforms, and opportunities for Australian investors in resources, infrastructure, green energy, education and skills, the digital economy and agribusiness.
Our efforts are translating into groundbreaking Australian investment in the Philippine energy, resources and services sectors. For example, President Marcos Jr. recently awarded four exploration licences to Australian oil and gas companies to help strengthen the local energy security. Our investors have funded this country’s first lithium-ion battery manufacturing plant. But more can be done to increase Australian investment. Over the last 18 months, the embassy has held seven business missions to raise awareness about opportunities in the Philippine education, mining and energy sectors. We are seeing promising opportunities in the digital economy, education, and infrastructure sectors.
Last month, Australia’s Prime Minister Albanese announced two more investments under Southeast Asia Investment Financing Facility to support Australian investment into the region: an AU$175 million equity investment into Industry Fund Management’s Investors’ AsiaPacific Fund, and a AU$77-million equity investment to assist Plenary in establishing a new Southeast Asia private-public partnership platform fund for greenfield infrastructure projects across Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. That is why Invested 2040 is in our mutual interests. Through international trade and investment, we gain the goods, ideas, and efficiencies to strengthen our economies and build opportunity and prosperity together.
CANADA’S Secretary of State for International Development Randeep Sarai’s visit is part of Ottawa’s efforts to increase development cooperation with Manila. JOYCE
