payments (BOP) recorded an eight-month-high surplus of $706 million in October 2025, persistent trade deficits, tariff policies and higher global uncertainty reversed the 10-month BOP into a deficit of $4.609 billion.
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
THE Philippines is aiming to grow its digital economy’s contribution to gross domestic product to 12.5 percent by 2028, reversing a decline that saw the sector’s share drop from a peak of 9.1 percent in 2021 to 8.4 percent in 2024.
Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda warned that the country is “falling behind” regional neighbors in digital adoption, after the share
of the digital economy to the local output dropped marginally over the past three years.
“I firmly believe in data, not delusions,” Aguda told participants of the Pilipinas Conference 2025. “The Philippines is in a state of digital decline. We are falling behind. This is unacceptable.”
He said the decline represents “missed chances for better jobs, higher incomes, and a future where every Filipino can take part in the digital age.”
Aguda contrasted the Philippines’s digital economy share with
regional competitors, noting Singapore leads at 25 percent, Malaysia at over 20 percent, and Vietnam climbing toward 18 percent.
“While we were comfortable, our neighbors were hungry. Our failure is that while the rest of the Asean took advantage of the pandemic to digitize, we did not,” he said. “We have flat lined.”
The declining digital economy share has also affected the country’s ability to attract major hyperscalers, with China and Indonesia hosting six of the largest cloud service providers—AWS, Micro -
soft, Google, Alibaba, Huawei, and Tencent—while Singapore and Malaysia host five. The Philippines hosts only two. “If the economy is growing but the digital sector’s share isn’t keeping pace, it means you’re neglecting the digital aspect,” Aguda said in an interview after his speech. “But if both the economy and the digital share are growing together, that shows you’re future-proofing the economy.” He said the government expects the digital economy’s contribution to exceed 8.4 percent by year-end,
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
THE new chief of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) said “internal conflicts” and “weak top management” are the primary causes of the agency’s case backlog, rather than the number of commissioners. There was a proposal raised during deliberations on the amendments to the Epira to increase the number of commissioners to nine from the current five as part of restructuring the agency.
ERC chairman Francis Saturnino Juan said an increase in the number of commissioners does not necessarily correlate with a higher resolution rate of cases, nor does it facilitate expedited decision-making. Instead, he pointed out, the proposal is likely to institutionalize gridlock, saying an increase in the number of commissioners may result in more protracted debates, deeper divisions, and greater challenges in achieving the majority consensus necessary for critical decisions. In a nutshell, the proposed reform
ick D. Go vowed to translate government policies into “real, tangible progress that every Filipino can feel,” as he formally took the helm of the Department of Finance (DOF). In a statement, the DOF said Go’s entry into the Finance department comes at a crucial time when Filipinos are in the process of rebuilding and relying on the government for action.
“We find ourselves at a very challenging moment. Many of our fellow Filipinos need our help to rebuild and to look for solutions, accountability, and hope,” Go said in his speech during the turnover
ceremony.
“With this comes a profound responsibility to steer the Philippine economy towards greater heights while ensuring that the government delivers on its promises,” he added.
The Filipino people, Go said, deserve no less as every commitment the government makes must translate into real, tangible progress that every ordinary Filipino can feel. “I am confident that together we can meet these challenges.”
Go urged the men and women of the DOF to share their ideas, specifically actionable ideas, and speak freely, candidly and boldly.
“As Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto said, challenge me or us when-
ever necessary so that we can arrive at the best solutions,” Go said.
Go said he and former Finance Secretary Recto agree on almost everything. “I’m struggling to think of a moment where we had a difference in opinion—in what needs to be done or what the strategy is.”
The new Finance chief called on the DOF to recommit themselves to serving not just the institution, but more importantly, the people.
“Our mandate is bigger than any one individual. We are here to take action, improve lives, and make a difference through a government that is responsive and efficient,” Go added.
“We are here to take action, improve lives, and make a difference through a government that is re -
sponsive and efficient,” Go said. Prior to assuming his role as Finance Secretary, Go served as Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs. Go also headed the Economic Development Committee, supervising and monitoring developments in key government agencies.
Go also led
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
AHTISA ASCENDS Miss Philippines Ahtisa Manalo competes in the national costume competition at the Miss Universe pageant in Nonthaburi, Thailand, on November 19, 2025. Her “Festejada: Queen of Philippine Festivals” ensemble by Mak Tumang draws inspiration from iconic local celebrations, including the Giant Lantern Festival and Pahiyas. Manalo—dubbed the “Pambansang Manika”— continues to rank
at the Impact Muang Thong Thani Arena in Bangkok. AP/SAKCHAI LALIT
12.5% digital economy share in GDP eyed
marking a return to growth.
To achieve the 2028 target, the DICT is implementing several initiatives focusing on infrastructure deployment, adoption across all sectors, and institutionalized governance.
The strategy includes accelerating the National Fiber Backbone rollout, expanding the Free Wi-Fi for All program, driving industry modernization, and strengthening cybersecurity protections.
“We are not settling for linear growth. We are aiming for hyperexponential growth,” Aguda said, describing the planned trajectory as a “rocket-ship” path from the current 8.4 percent.
He added that achieving higher digital economy shares would demonstrate the country is “investing in digital,” similar to regional peers.
The government is also pushing digital adoption through the eGovPH platform, the Startup Development Program, and artificial intelligence integration in government services.
The DICT targets creating 8 million digital jobs for Filipinos as part of the initiative.
Aguda emphasized that cybersecurity will be critical to attracting foreign investment and hyperscalers, calling on industry leaders to “invest, integrate, and align” with government efforts.
‘Economy strong despite governance, global troubles’
By Andrea E. San Juan
THEPhilippine economy remains strong despite recent governance challenges and continuing global uncertainties, according to the country’s socioeconomic planning chief.
In a statement on Thursday, Arsenio M. Balisacan, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary said the country’s “sound” macroeconomic fundamentals—“sustained growth, easing inflation, a healthy labor market, a manageable fiscal deficit and public debt, a broadly stable currency and external position, and a robust banking system—continue to anchor our resilience.”
The country’s chief economist is banking on “hard-won” reforms that were passed, implemented, and sustained over the years which he said have “consistently strengthened” the Philippine economy’s ability to weather periods of domestic or external turbulence. Amid “political noise” and global headwinds, Balisacan stressed: the economy continued to expand: although growth moderated to 4 percent
in the third quarter, full-year growth for 2025 has so far averaged 5 percent.
The socioeconomic planning chief said the Philippine economy’s potential growth remains at least 6 percent annually, assuming that it is supported by a “robust labor force, steady capital investment, productivity gains, and ongoing technological progress.”
“Our medium-term targets reflect this capacity. While short-term fluctuations and external headwinds may affect immediate outcomes, the economy’s overall trajectory remains firm,” Balisacan underscored.
Moving forward, he said the government will continue to deploy fiscal, monetary, financial, technological, and social-protection policies, together with key legislative measures, to keep actual growth aligned with this potential.
“At the same time, we have been
laying down the necessary investments to future-proof the economy amid environmental, technological, and geopolitical disruptions,” added Balisacan.
He said the government is strengthening economic foundations, particularly recognizing that investor and consumer confidence are necessary to sustain growth.
Further, Balisacan said the government continues to prioritize human capital development.
“Laws policies, programs, and projects in health, education, skills development, and social protection are being implemented or expanded to ensure that Filipinos are equipped to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving economic landscape,” said the country’s socioeconomic planning chief.
As these efforts continue, he said DEPDev is prioritizing actions to enhance the quality of public investments—ensuring
that the nation’s resources are directed toward programs and projects with the “greatest impact.”
“We are strengthening planning and budgeting linkages; improving program convergence and project coordination; scaling up strategic monitoring and evaluation (M&E); and expanding capacity building in planning, project appraisal, investment programming, and M&E.
“These initiatives form part of the government’s broader efforts to reinforce governance and strengthen institutions. We call on our partners in business, civil society, and the international community to continue working with us as we progressively realize our shared aspirations. Together, we can build and sustain partnerships founded on trust, accelerate development, and ensure that progress meaningfully reaches every Filipino,” Balisacan said.
corruption, has been in the bilateral agenda of FTA and the Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+).
and engagement. The more you trade, the more you connect, the better it is, the robustness of systems for all.” (See related: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/11/14/canada-commits-%E2%82%B13-2-b-aidand-trade-boost/)
EU: FTA Talks unhindered EUROPEAN Union Ambassador Massimo Santoro affirmed that corruption scandals have not derailed FTA negotiations with the Philippines. He said governance, including
Santoro welcomed the government’s visible anti-corruption measures, including President Marcos Jr.’s mention of graft in his State of the Nation Address.
“Unless the government stops acting on corruption, there is no reason to project negative outcomes for trade or investment,” Santoro said, emphasizing governance and accountability as part of the bilateral agenda. (See related: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2025/11/19/eu-phlconduct-5th-subcommitteeconfab-on-good-governancerule-of-law-human-rights/)
decisions. This reform addresses a non-existent problem while creating a new one,” it added.
First 100 days
addresses a non-existent problem while creating a new one.
“We actually raised concern on the proposal for the increase in the number of the commissioners...we are not in favor of that expansion of the commission to nine. The reason why we are not in favor of that expansion is because it’s more in reaction to what was happening. And that failure is not because of the current structure but because of something else,” Juan said.
The ERC chief believes that the challenges that have plagued the commission in recent years—case backlogs, regulatory uncertainty, and perceived indecisiveness—are symptoms of deeper, non-structural ailments.
He said the ERC’s effectiveness has been disproportionately impacted by internal conflicts and a weak top management. The problem was not the number of commissioners, but the quality of their collaboration.
“Without clear directives and firm management from the top, operational momentum stalled, and backlogs inevitably piled up,” a position paper drafted by the ERC stated.
Further, the ERC struggles to compete with the private sector for top-tier talent—the seasoned engineers, economists, and utility practitioners who can navigate the complex technical and financial nuances of the energy sector.
“Similarly, an increase in the number of Commissioners does not necessarily correlate with a higher resolution rate of cases, nor does it facilitate expedited decision-making. Instead, it is likely to institutionalize gridlock.
“An increase in the number of voices may result in more protracted debates, deeper divisions, and greater challenges in achieving the majority consensus necessary for critical
Better weather conditions, easing of political noise that previously caused volatility, seasonal tapering off of imports and an increase in remittances and export sales improved the country’s BOP, according to Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation.
“Though still offset by the continued Trump risk factor/premium that led to some market volatility worldwide,” Ricafort said. Robert Dan Roces, group economist at SM Investments Corporation, said the October surplus reflects strong inflows from the national government’s external financing program and the usual lift from seasonal remittances and business process outsourcing receipts.
“On top of that, import growth has softened, which naturally narrows the trade gap and helps the balance,” Roces added.
GIR surplus
MEANWHILE , the BSP said October’s surplus reflected the increase in gross international reserves (GIR) to $110.2 billion as of end-October 2025.
This level of reserves, the BSP said, remains an adequate external liquidity buffer, equivalent to 7.4 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income. It covers about 3.8 times the country’s short-term external debt based on residual maturity.
10-month BOP: From surplus to deficit DURING the January to October 2025 period, the BOP posted an overall deficit of $4.609 billion, “showing signs of narrowing as inflows strengthened,” the BSP said. This, however, is a reversal from the $4.393 billion surplus in the same period a year ago, based on BSP data.
Ricafort said this is partly due to the continued trade deficit of the country in recent months, foreign debt servicing and volatile markets due to local political noise, Trump tariff policies and higher global uncertainty.
MEANWHILE, Juan capped his first 100 days in office with reforms aimed at strengthening transparency, accelerating regulatory processes, and improving service for electricity consumers.
Juan’s leadership has focused on addressing a major backlog: the decade-long delay in the rate reset process for private distribution utilities (PDUs) under the performancebased regulation (PBR) framework. Juan helped craft and directed the implementation of the Rationalized Rules for Setting Distribution Wheeling Rates to facilitate the restart of the reset process for all PDUs.
“We start on a clean slate so that future rate-setting under the PBR becomes forward-looking once more, where the distribution rates will be set using forecasts of efficient costs and sound regulatory principles,” said Juan.
The ERC also acted to sustain the renewable energy (RE) sector, approving a new Feed-in Tariff Allowance (FIT-All) rate in November 2025 to ensure timely payment to RE developers.
The ERC likewise simplified net metering procedures to four core requirements and standardized rules across DUs, allowing households and businesses to avail themselves of the benefits of the net-metering program with ease.
Besides the approved resolutions on PBR, FIT-All, and net metering rules amendments, the ERC initiated development of other key resolutions. These include the rules to govern the review process for the Ancillary Services Procurement Agreements procured by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, and the proposed resolution to expand the coverage of the lifeline program.
“Looking ahead, BOP should stay broadly stable, but foreign exchange stability will still hinge on US rate cuts, oil prices, and how quickly exports recover,” Roces said. He added that the risk now is less about liquidity and more about sentiment. “Any flare-up in geopolitics or tariffs can easily swing the monthly numbers.”
Anti-corruption measures and other reform measures, Ricafort added, will help further improve international investor sentiment on the country, which could improve the BOP data in the coming months. The BOP accounts for the transactions of the country with the rest of the world.
GIR, meanwhile, are made up of foreign-denominated securities, foreign exchange, and other assets, including gold.
GIR help a country finance its imports and foreign debt obligations, stabilize its currency, and provide a buffer against external economic shocks.
that tourism generates tangible benefits for our people as well as sustain our food heritage,” she said. Aside from being the hub of the Philippines’s largest slow food community, Bacolod is home to some of the best culinary creations in the country—from the celebrated chicken inasal to the sweet piaya, and the delectable kansi, a bulalo-like concoction with beef shanks or ribs, with batwan fruit as souring agent for the broth.
Negros Island also produces sustainable coffee beans, organic fruits and vegetables, coconut products such as virgin coconut oil and coconut vinegar, among others. Held alongside TMAP is the 18th Negros Island Organic Farmers’ Festival, with some 50 farmers and exhibitors showcasing their diverse products.
Friday, November 21, 2025
Guo, 7 others guilty, meted out life terms
TBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573
HE Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Pasig City has found the dismissed mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, Alice Guo, and several others guilty of qualified human trafficking and sentenced then to life imprisonment in connection with alleged involvement in the illegal activities of a Philippine Offline Gaming Operators (Pogo) hub in her town. Aside from Guo, also found guilty were Rachelle Joan Malonzo Carreon, Jamielyn Santos Cruz, Walter Wong Rong, Wang Welli, Wuli Dong, Nong Ding Chang and Lang Xu Po.
In an 111-page decision, Judge Annielyn Medes-Cabelis of Branch 167 of the RTC in Pasig also directed Guo and her co-accused to pay a fine of P2 million and to indemnify four
victims the amount of P500,000 as moral damages and P100,000 as exemplary damages. Likewise, the trial court ordered the forfeiture of the parcels of land registered in the name of Baofu Land Development totaling 79.218 square meters, in favor of the government, without compensation, “as these were used as the means of committing labor trafficking.”
The Baofu compound, which is composed of 36 buildings with KTV bar, restaurant, barbershop, and grocery store, is owned by Guo’s real estate company.
In addition, the trial court ordered the Securities and Exchange Commission to permanently revoke the registration of Baofu Land Development Inc., Hongsheng Gaming Technology Inc. and Zun Yuan Technology Inc.
It also barred the stockholders and presidents of the
Receiving foreign funding to stage rallies betrayal of PHL–Palace
‘BETRAYAL of the Philippines.”
This is how Malacañang described reports that some anti-government rallies could be backed by foreign funding.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said on Thursday that the Armed Forces (AFP) is closely monitoring developments, in coordination with the National Police (PNP).
The AFP earlier disclosed that it is looking into the possibility of foreign entities funding recent anti-government protest actions.
“Kung ito man ay may katotohanan, kapuwa Pilipino kung, again, kung may katotohanan at makikita po sa kanilang pag-iimbestiga na foreign-funded itong kanilang isinasagawang rally, masasabi po nating ito ay pagtataksil sa bayan [If this is true that our fellow Filipinos are behind foreign-funded anti-government rallies, it may be considered treason],” Castro said.
“Hindi po nararapat ito na pinanghihimasukan tayo ng ibang bansa. Ang politika natin ay mukhang pinanghihimasukan na ng ibang bansa, so, hindi po maganda [It is not appropriate for foreign entities to interfere in our affairs. Our politics seems to be influenced by other countries, which is not good].”
The military’s disclosure follows a recent United People’s Initiative (UPI) rally led by retired military personnel at the Edsa (Epifanio delos Santos Avenue) People Power Monument in Quezon City, which called for President Marcos’s resignation and urged the AFP to withdraw support from the government.
Military commanders firm in support for Constitution COMMANDERS of the AFP’s
seven major combatant commands have reaffirmed their commitment to uphold the Constitution amid calls for the military to withdraw its support from the government.
“In a united declaration, the commanders of the AFP’s Combatant Commands affirmed that the military remains steadfast in its constitutional mandate to uphold the rule of law and ensure full respect for civilian authority,” the AFP said in a statement on Thursday.
These combatant commands are the National Capital Region Command, Southern Luzon Command, Northern Luzon Command, Western Command, Visayas Command, Eastern Mindanao Command, and Western Mindanao Command.
The individual declarations of the concerned commanders are posted on the AFP’s Facebook page.
The declarations follow a recent UPI rally led by retired military personnel in Quezon City, which called for Marcos’s resignation and urged the AFP to withdraw support from the government.
Although the right to peaceful assembly must be respected, the AFP said it should be exercised responsibly, peacefully, and without compromising public safety.
“As the nation navigates a critical juncture in its democratic journey, the AFP assures the Filipino people that it remains a professional, disciplined, and non-partisan institution,” it said.
The AFP earlier disclosed that it is looking into the possibility of foreign entities funding recent anti-government protest actions in the country.
Samuel P. Medenilla with PNA
said companies from operating similar establishments in a different name.
Baofu is the real estate company that leased its compound to Hongsheng and Zun Yuan.
The qualified human trafficking case against Guo and her coaccused was filed by the Department of Justice last year in connection with their involvement in the operation of a Pogo hub in Baofu compound that was raided by the authorities due to information about illegal activities, including human trafficking being committed in the place.
The operation resulted in the arrest of more than 300 foreigners, most of them mainland Chinese.
Guo and her co-accused were convicted just 14 months after the court acquired jurisdiction over them.
The trial court, on the other hand, acquitted other accused
namely Thelma Laranan, Rowena Gonzales-Evangelista, Rita Sapnu-Yturralde, Merlie Joy Manalo Castro and Maybeline Requiro Millo for the failure of the prosecution to prove their guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
Guo, Carreon, and Cruz were ordered to be transferred to the Correctional Institution for Women at Mandaluyong City to serve their sentence while Walter, Wang, Wuli and Lang were ordered to be committed at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City.
Guo, who is facing a string of criminal cases such as graft and money laundering, has repeatedly denied her link or connection to the operation of the Pogo in her town.
In convicting Guo, the Court did not give credence to her defense that she is no longer a shareholder of Baofu since September 21, 2021 after she assigned all her shares to
a certain Jack Uy.
The trial court noted that the environmental compliance certificate issued by the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR) on November 19, 2021 named her as owner of Baofu
“Another evidence that accused Guo is still connected with Baofu is the fact that a motor vehicle registered in her name was found inside the Baofu compound during the raid on 13 March 2024,” Cabelis said.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) hailed the court’s decision and its prosecution team headed by Deputy State Prosecutor Olivia Torrevillas, for securing Guo’s conviction.
Hontiveros satisfied SEN . Anna Theresia Hontiveros, chairwoman of Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender
Equality, expressed satisfaction over the conviction of Guo and companions.
In a statement, Hontiveros said, “Today, justice has been served. The conviction of Alice Guo aka Guo Hua Ping is a victory against corruption, human trafficking, cybercrime, and many other transnational crimes. Ngayon, hindi na sila makakaulit [They can no longer commit the same crimes].”
Hontiveros added: “This Senate investigation delivered unprecedented results: it helped secure a presidential executive order banning Pogos, provided evidence towards a guilty verdict, sending a criminal to prison for life, and contributed in the passage of the Anti-Pogo Law of 2025.
“I am proud to consider it one of the most consequential Senate inquiries of my life’s work so far.”
Just another whammy for convicted Bamban ex-mayor
By Ashley J. Manabat
THE human trafficking conviction is the latest in a series of legal setbacks for Alice Guo.
In June 2025, Branch 34 of the Regional Trial Court ruled that Guo, legally identified by the court as a Chinese national, had fraudulently assumed a Filipino identity to run for mayor.
The court also voided her proclamation and convicted her of usurpation of public office.
In September 2025, Branch 111 of the RTC in Tarlac City certificate of live birth, a ruling affirmed in October after her appeal was denied.
The government had also secured criminal forfeiture of Guo’s 7.9-hectare Baofu property, valued at P3.9 billion. Civil forfeiture cases involving Guo’s other assets including bank accounts, vehicles and real estate collectively worth hundreds of millions of pesos
remain pending. Businessman Ruperto Cruz, who has been repeatedly mentioned in investigations into the Porac Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (Pogo) case, declined to comment on Guo’s conviction.
Cruz maintained that he was not involved in the Porac hub’s operations and that the property transaction was strictly a business matter.
Cruz said there are no records linking him to human trafficking and that he was unfairly singled out, while similar cases involving other landlords and local officials were not pursued.
“I cannot comment on that. We respect the court’s judgment. But in the case filed against me in relation to human trafficking, there are no records to prove that,” said Cruz.
“Just like the Remullas on their Cavite property, we only sold our property, because I am
a businessman. Ang lumilitaw kasi bakit ako lang ang kinasuhan sa human trafficking? Wala naman pruweba . It won’t stand in court. Naging sensationalized ang Porac case pero kung tutuusin nasi -single out lang din kami. Wala naman records,” he added.
Cruz is the owner of the 150-hectare Royal Garden Estate in Porac town. Only about 4-hectare portion of the property was sold to Whirlwind Corporation and later leased to Pogo Lucky South 99.
Lucky South was raided by the authorities in June 2024.
The hearings conducted by the Senate and the House of Representatives have revealed links between Whirlwind and Lucky South through common associates including former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque.
Cruz is also the chairman of the Pinoy Gumising Ka Movement—among the civil
Marcos taps appraiser to update SALN
PBy Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
RESIDENT Marcos tapped an appraiser to make his last year’s Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) more transparent and updated, Malacañang said on Thursday.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the statement when asked why the President’s SALN contained a net worth value based on the appraisal report made by Cuervo Appraisers, Inc.
Castro said the appraisal by the independent appraiser made the content of the SALN more reliable and updated than if the President just relied on his own assessment to determine the value of his net worth.
“Wouldn’t it be better if you could see what your value is, the updated value of your properties— better, clearer, more transparent,” Castro said in Filipino in a press briefing.
In his 2024 SALN reported by GMA News online, Marcos estimated his net worth grew to more
society groups in Pampanga pushing for the call to a Constitutional Convention (Con-Con) as a peaceful way to end the systemic corruption amid the ongoing flood control scandal.
“First of all, I am not in their corporation [Whirlwind]. Kamukha ng kina Ombudsman [Jesus Crispin] Remulla at Secretary [Juan Victor] Jonvic Remulla, nag benta at nagpalease lang din kami. Kung isasali nila ako, isali nila lahat,” Cruz said.
“When we were having the transaction, they said they were BPOs, a call center. They were legalized under the Duterte administration. What about the mayors in Metro Manila? They were also not included. Mayor Jing Capil was also singled out,” he added.
The Paocc said it is monitoring 55 related cases nationwide, with 33 already in active trials.
than P398 million from P329.23 in June 2022, when he assumed the Presidency. It also contained a valuation report of Cuervo, which showed the President’s net worth rose to P1.375 billion from P960.7 million in 2022.
Among the Chief Executive’s declared assets are P142.026 million worth of 21 pieces of real estate property, cash worth P38.7 million, investments worth P134.192 million, and P247.33-million worth of pieces of jewelry, vehicles, and paintings.
Nartatez orders stricter measures against unauthorized sale, use of police uniforms
By Rex Anthony Naval
TO prevent its use in criminal activities, the acting National Police (PNP) chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., on Thursday ordered the implementation of stricter measures against the unauthorized use, manufacture and sale of police uniforms to protect the integrity and credibility of the service.
“Our uniforms are not only a symbol of authority. They also represent the honor, integrity and professionalism of the organization which we represent. It is the obligation of every police officer to protect and wear them with pride and dignity,” he said.
Nartatez has tasked PNP units to intensify the measures to protect police uniforms in order to ensure that law enforcement authorities maintain public trust and that official symbols of authority are safeguarded against misuse.
The first targets of the operation against the unauthorized sale of police uniforms and accessories are the stores surrounding the PNP National Headquarters at Camp Rafael T. Crame, Quezon City. Those stores sell uniforms, shirts, insignias and other pieces of police clothing to all comers without asking questions or demanding idenfication cards. The order came as the National Police Commission convened its accredited uniform
suppliers to discuss stricter measures and accountability against the illegal sale of police uniforms.
Authorities have noted an increasing prevalence of unauthorized sellers, both near the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City and across various online selling platforms.
Nartatez stressed that the PNP will actively collaborate with online selling platforms to curb illegal sales and will conduct inspections of physical stores, including those within and near the vicinity of Camp Crame, to verify authorization for
HE government’s counterinsurgency task force on Thursday condemned the recent killing of two noncombatants by communist guerrillas in Negros.
In a statement, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac) said the deaths of Jomy Pelarta and Raul Loterio at the hands of the the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPPNPA) rebels show that the rebels’ so-called “people’s court” remains “nothing more than a mechanism for summary execution.”
“[The killings] once again expose the group’s longstanding pattern of targeting innocent civilians under the guise of so-called ‘revolutionary justice,’” the task force said.
NTF-Elcac issued the statement after the NPA’s Romeo Nanta Command admitted killing Pelara and Loterio on November 6 and 13, respectively, for allegedly being military assets.
According to the task force, the
PHL, EU seal €22.6-M digital economy pact
By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto
THE European Union (EU) and the Philippines sealed a new cooperation agreement to accelerate the country’s digital transition and technology innovation, backed by a €22.6-million Digital Economy Package.
In a statement on Thursday, the DOF said the package covers 5G development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI) for earth observation and digital connectivity and infrastructure. The EU-Philippines Digital Economy Package is funded by a €20 million contribution from the EU, complemented by an additional €2 million from Finland and €600,000 from France.
Erwin Tulfo seeks probe of misuse of LOAs at BIR
SEN. Erwin Tulfo has urged the Senate Blue-Ribbon committee to launch a full investigation into alleged corruption in the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), particularly the reported misuse of the agency’s Letter of Authority (LOA) system that has allegedly become a longrunning “money-making scheme.”
In a radio interview on Thursday, Tulfo said he would recommend to the BlueRibbon committee chairperson, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson, that the committee take up the BIR issue next, citing the volume of complaints from taxpayers who fear retaliation from examiners.
baka ma-blacklist sila [Many business owners want to file complaints but refuse to disclose their identities because they fear they might be blacklisted],” he said, noting that many refuse to come forward out of fear of being singled out by corrupt personnel.
Tulfo, the vice chairperson of the BlueRibbon panel, said he has already spoken with newly-appointed BIR Commissioner Charlito Mendoza, who assumed office on November 12, requesting a report within a month.
He also urged the agency to temporarily suspend the issuance of LOAs while investigations proceed.
“The best way is to stop issuing LOAs muna because g inagamit ito ng ilang examiner para kumita. Hindi naman napupuntasakabanngbayan[The best way is to stop issuing LOAs for now because some examiners are using them to make money. The funds don’t go to the government
coffers],” he said. He said the LOA, which allows BIR examiners to inspect business records, is allegedly being used to pressure companies into paying reduced and unofficial tax amounts, with the “discounted” tax payments pocketed by unscrupulous personnel.
“Dati malalaking kumpanya lang. Ngayonpatimaliliitnanegosyo,patimayari ng grocery store, pati 7/11, binibigyan na ng LOA [Before, only large companies were targeted. Now, even small businesses, family-owned grocery stores, and even 7/11 owners are being issued LOAs],” he said.
Meanwhile, on the Blue-Ribbon committee’s flood-control investigation, Tulfo said senators are preparing to turn over evidence to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) as the inquiry nears completion.
“We’re winding down. Nagsampa na ng kaso. Baka magdoble-doble kung sabaysabay ang ICI, DOJ [Department of Justice], Ombudsman, at Blue-Ribbon panel [Cases have already been filed. There’s the risk of duplicating efforts if the ICI, Department of Justice, Ombudsman, and the Blue-Ribbon committee all proceed at the same time],” he said, noting that only one more hearing may be held.
Tulfo said the committee is still unable to locate witness Orly Guteza, who remains missing.
He also confirmed hearing that former Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo is “willing to return” alleged kickbacks as part of a possible bid to enter the Witness Protection Program. Butch Fernandez with PNA
Farmers back PHL stance at COP11
FARMERS groups and grassroots advocates lauded the Philippine delegation at the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11) of the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) for firmly defending the country’s sovereign right to scrutinize international proposals through the lens of national interests and capabilities, particularly those with implications for rural livelihoods and tobacco growers.
Ambassador Carlos Sorreta, head of the Philippine delegation to the WHO FCTC, stressed in his opening statement the importance of managing transitions responsibly for communities that remain economically dependent on tobacco farming in the Philippines.
“We must ensure transitions are socially and economically responsible as we work to diversify livelihoods and sustain investments, consistent with our laws and the Convention,” he said. He also noted that the Philippines considers the importance of “sovereignty and different national contexts in the implementation of guidance.”
The position highlights that proposed regulatory measures under the FCTC are not compulsory and should be viewed as complementary to current national implementation.
Local stakeholders praised the delegation’s position, noting that proposals perceived as overly rigid could carry significant socio-economic risks if applied without consideration for the country’s specific conditions.
The Northern Luzon Alliance (NLA), a group of lawmakers from tobacco-growing
Newly-appointed Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go said the project will provide the Philippines with a secure and reliable digital connectivity infrastructure by enabling high-speed and real-time access to Copernicus data.
“This will allow the government to better prepare for natural disasters, respond faster in times of crisis, and provide immediate relief
to Filipino families. And we need this now more than ever,” Go said. A key component of the partnership will be strengthening the ongoing EU Copernicus Philippines programme, which uses earth observation data for disaster risk reduction, environmental monitoring and private-sector productivity.
By applying AI to earth observation, the programme will help the
Philippine government develop new smart solutions for food security to mapping infrastructure.
The agreement will also foster collaboration between EU and Philippine universities on science and technological research and innovation.
In addition, the digital partnership will focus on policy support for 5G rollout, enhancing local and international digital
connectivity and developing innovative applications requiring ultrafast connectivity to access Copernicus data.
The Philippine Space Agency, the Department of Science and Technology, the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the Office of Civil Defense will spearhead the execution of this partnership with European partners.
DA backs integration of agri, hydropower strategies
TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE Department of Agriculture (DA) has committed to help integrate the country’s hydropower and agriculture strategies as part of efforts to enhance energy and farm development.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said water-based energy projects could contribute to advance the country’s food security, rural development, and longterm renewable energy goals.
With this, Tiu Laurel said the department
would implement a raft of interventions to push integration forward.
These include mapping irrigation and water assets suitable for hydropower; supporting agro-industrial zones powered by renewable energy; and ensuring farmer participation and fair benefit-sharing in hydropower projects.
The agency said it would also enhance infrastructure coordination between agricultural and energy agencies and advocate for a unified national policy that aligns food, water, and energy security.
“These efforts reflect a broader strategy:
using renewable energy not only to meet climate goals but to power the backbone of the rural economy,” Tiu Laurel was quoted in the statement as saying.
Interventions
GIVEN the projected impact of integrating hydropower and agriculture, the DA chief then urged government, private developers, and communities to collaborate.
He stressed that hydropower could serve as a bridge between the country’s clean energy transition and resilient food production.
For one, Tiu Laurel said they could colocate hydropower with irrigation systems, power rural microgrids, and strengthen agrivalue chains through reliable electricity for storage and processing.
It could also improve watershed protection, which is crucial for maintaining farm yields and ensuring the long-term viability of hydropower.
“Turning rivers and reservoirs into sources of both power and prosperity can help reduce postharvest losses and raise
areas, said the Philippine delegation’s position helps prevent the adoption of policies that conflict with the agricultural context of their regions.
“We applaud the Philippine delegation for standing up for the welfare of farmers, consumers, and communities in tobaccogrowing provinces and not agreeing to proposals to end government support for growers, impose quotas, and phase out tobacco sales are unrealistic, overly punitive, and incompatible with the country’s agricultural and economic realities,” the group said.
“Had these proposals been accepted, it would have amounted to an economic death sentence for entire agricultural provinces and the industries linked to them. Such measures would severely harm rural livelihoods, disrupt lawful industries, and jeopardize revenues that fund essential public services,” they added.
The Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) noted the historical significance of tobacco in sustaining rural economies across the country. “Tobacco remains a primary source of livelihood across nearly 20 provinces… More importantly, this is the only decent source of income many families have known for generations.”
The group noted that the delegation’s position took into account the practical realities surrounding the issue. “In protecting our farmers and the communities reliant on this crop, the Philippine delegation has done an act of compassion and fairness. They chose to listen to the people who would have suffered first and most. For that, we are deeply grateful. They protected not just our crops, but our
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Caap ramps up preparation for 2026 Icao audit
THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) has taken a significant step in fortifying the country’s aviation safety framework by successfully conducting a three-day workshop focused on international oversight standards.
Caap conducted the workshop in preparation for the coming 2026 International Civil Aviation Organization (Icao) Universal Safety Oversight Audit Program (Usoap).
The Usoap Continuous Monitoring Approach Workshop, held from November 17-19 in Parañaque City, was a key initiative designed to deepen the agency’s grasp of global safety standards and ensure the Philippines’ continued compliance with international aviation safety benchmarks.
The workshop underscored the commitment of the national leadership to elevate the coun -
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In the same statement, Hontiveros thanked the victims, witnesses and whistleblowers who had the courage to testify during the Senate investigation.
In addition, Hontiveros said: “My deepest gratitude to the Department of Justice prosecutors who brought this case to justice.
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rural incomes,” he said.
For Tiu Laurel, accelerating the country’s hydropower development— from run-of-river systems to pumped-
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uniform production and sale.
try’s aviation safety profile. It reflects explicit directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez to the Caap leadership, headed by Director General Raul del Rosario, to bolster aviation oversight capabilities and ensure strict adherence to international safety regulations.
To ensure the highest level of instruction, Caap enlisted the expertise of two distinguished ICAO officials:
n Jerome Guevin, Chief of Oversight Support Unit at Icao’s Air Navigation Bureau.
n Junjian Nie, Chief of the Safety and Air Navigation Oversight Audit Section at Icao.
Progress, competence IN his address, Caap Deputy Director General for Operations Rozzano Briguez framed the
Sa ating mga law enforcers na hindi nagsawang mag -imbestiga, mag -raid, at mag -rescue, maraming salamat sa inyo.”
Hontiveros also said, “as chairperson of Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality that led the investigation, this makes me feel optimistic about the work we do. But it is far from over.
“We will continue to demand accountability from every gov -
storage facilities and micro-hydro installations—can help the Philippines achieve its clean-energy ambitions of 35 percent renewable energy by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.
Ha added that these measures could also extend to the local farm sector, adding that irrigation networks, cold
impending 2026 Icao audit as a crucial opportunity for the Philippine aviation sector.
“The upcoming ICAO audit is an opportunity for the Philippines’ aviation sector to demonstrate the nation’s progress, competence, and strengthened safety framework,” Briguez said. He also highlighted Caap’s ongoing dedication to modernization, saying, “Caap continues to invest in systems and capabilities that will make our oversight more efficient, more risk based, and more data driven.”
Caap concluded the event by affirming it’s dedication to achieve long term safety and resilience.
The completion of the workshop marks a pivotal moment in the country’s journey towards maintaining the highest international civil aviation standards as it gears up for the critical 2026 Icao audit, Caap said in a statement. Nonie Reyes
ernment agency that failed in their duties, and we will continue to investigate the full extent of Chinese intelligence operations in our country.
“And to all others who enabled Alice Guo’s criminal empire: the Philippines is not a playground for exploitation, infiltration, and espionage.
“Accountability is coming. Justice always finds a way.” With Butch Fernandez
storage, fish landing sites, and foodprocessing facilities all depend on stable, affordable power.
“Energy and agriculture are deeply interconnected,” Tiu Laurel said. Hydropower could anchor a clean-energy countryside where electrification and agricultural productivity rise together.”
He explained that the PNP, as an organization, has gone through a long transformation to do away with negative public perceptions against the police force.
“We will work with online selling platforms to thwart any illegal sale of police uniforms and we will also inspect stores to check if they are authorized to produce and sell these uniforms,’’ he said.
He then urged all policemen to be active in protecting PNP uniforms, insignias and all other accoutrements.
“A number of policemen before us invested so much hard work and sacrifices for the Philippine National Police to become what it is now. Let us honor them by properly wearing them and doing nothing to compromise the integrity and honor of the police force,” Nartatez added.
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rebels have openly claimed responsibility for the murder of 15 farmers, barangay leaders and community members since last year.
“These killings, far from isolated, reflect a disturbing return to the purge-style executions that have marked some of the most violent chapters in the group’s history,” it said, referring to the CPP-NPA’s previous internal campaigns Oplan Zombie, Kampanyang Ahos and Kadena de Amor where thousands, including students and members of tribal communities, were killed.
The NTF-Elcac said the recent killings in the Negros Island region follow the same pattern, as it noted other recent atrocities being committed by the NPA on the island.
“In Cauayan [Negros Occidental], the Armando Sumayang Jr. Command has intensified attacks on barangay officials whose only role was serving their constituents. Meanwhile, remnants operating in northern Negros—particularly the faction led by wanted NPA figure Roger Fabillar—have turned increasingly violent as government operations succeeded in dismantling five guerrilla fronts on the island,” it said.
The NTF-Elcac also assured the people of NIR that support will continue to flow to communities affected by NPA attacks.
“As Negros grieves, the NTFElcac calls on all sectors to stand with the victims, uphold the dignity of every Filipino, and work together to ensure that no armed group is ever again allowed to perpetrate killings in the name of revolution,” it said.
Insurgency free VILLAREAL town in Samar province has been declared insurgency-free following a resolution passed by local government officials upon the recommendation of the Municipal Peace and Order Council.
Mayor Marilou Latorre, together with the Army’s 802nd Infantry Brigade commander, Brig. Gen. Pompeyo Jayson Almagro, and other officials from the military and the police, led the formal declaration of Stable Internal Peace and Security Condition (SIPSC) on Wednesday.
“This declaration is not an end but a new beginning—a promise to sustain the peace we have achieved,” Latorre said in her message.
“We owe this victory to the unwavering dedication of our local government, the courage of our security forces, and, most importantly, the active participation of every single resident.”
Latorre added that the SIPSC status reflects the successful collaboration of law enforcement agencies, the local government unit, and community stakeholders in maintaining order in the town.
“This status is a testament to sustained peace efforts and aims to create an environment conducive to development and progress without fear or violence,” she said.
Villareal joins the growing list of local governments in Samar that have achieved SIPSC status, which include Pagsanghan, Tarangnan, San Sebastian, Sta. Margarita, Sto. Niño, Zumarraga, Pinabacdao and Calbayog City.
Almagro said the declaration, which signifies that the town is free from the influence of the communist NPA, is expected to spur positive developments, particularly in the business sector, as it may encourage investors to establish enterprises in the town.
“This declaration will also help us [military] shift our focus to other areas that still have problems with insurgency,” he added.
As part of the SIPSC declaration, local officials and representatives from the military, police and other peace partners signed a pledge of commitment and a memorandum of understanding to strengthen efforts in maintaining peace and preventing the resurgence of communist groups.
With Villareal now declared insurgency-free, the National Police (PNP) will take the lead in maintaining peace and security in the town.
Villareal, a fourth class town in Samar with a population of 27,909, is located 62 kilometers north of Tacloban City, the regional capital. PNA
Ukraine: Russian attack kills 25, including children, as Zelenskyy meets with Erdogan
By Illia Novikov The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—A large Russian drone and missile barrage on Ukraine’s western city of Ternopil killed at least 25 people, including three children, authorities said Wednesday, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy went to Turkey in search of diplomatic support for his fight against Russia’s invasion.
The nighttime attack hit two ninestory apartment blocks in Ternopil, located around 200 kilometers (120 miles) from the Polish border, according to Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko. At least 73 people, including 15 children, were injured, emergency services said.
At least 19 among those killed were burned alive, including three children aged 5, 7 and 16, Klymenko said. Two dozen people are still unaccounted for, he said on national television, and rescuers expect to work at least two more days to complete the search of rubble. Russia fired 476 strike and decoy drones, as well as 48 missiles of various types, at Ukrainian targets
DEAD bodies in plastic bags lie on the ground in front of a residential building that was heavily damaged after a Russian strike on Ternopil, Ukraine, on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025.
overnight, Ukraine’s air force said. The bombardment included 47 cruise missiles, with air defenses intercepting all but six of them, the air force said. Western-supplied F-16 and Mirage-2000 jets intercepted at least 10
cruise missiles, it said.
“Every brazen attack against ordinary life indicates that the pressure on Russia (to stop the war) is insufficient,” Zelenskyy wrote on the messaging app Telegram.
Zelenskyy meets with Turkish president ZELENSKYY met with Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara later Wednesday as part of his efforts to diplomatically isolate Russian President Vladimir Putin and bring more international pressure to bear on him. Putin has so far resisted making compromises, despite US pressure.
In brief statements to the press, Zelenskyy and Erdogan expressed their commitment to finding a peaceful settlement. Turkey is a key broker in the Black Sea region, preserving relations with both Ukraine and Russia.
“We count on the strength of Turkish diplomacy, on (how) it’s understood in Moscow,” Zelenskyy said. Zelenskyy said before the talks that he had seen “some positions and signals from the United States” about the war. He didn’t elaborate. Tough new American sanctions on Russia’s oil industry, devised to push Putin to the negotiating table, are due to take effect on Friday.
A senior Turkish official initially said US special envoy Steve Witkoff would join Zelenskyy in Turkey, but backtracked later in the day and said Witkoff wouldn’t be coming. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity Tuesday because he wasn’t allowed to speak publicly about the arrangements.
US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and other high-ranking Army officials are in Ukraine to help with peace talks, according to two US officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive plans. Driscoll is scheduled to meet this week with Zelenskyy, one of the officials said. Ukrainian officials confirmed that Driscoll was meeting officials in Kyiv, but made no mention of any discussion of renewing peace talks with Russia. Romania and Poland scramble fighter jets
TERNOPIL sits in a part of relatively
peaceful western Ukraine, where many people from the east and south moved to as they fled danger along the front line.
Almost 50 people were injured in Russian strikes on three other Ukrainian regions.
Russia’s Defense Ministry said it attacked Ukrainian energy facilities and military-industrial targets, including long-range drone depots, in retaliation against strikes by Kyiv on Russian territory.
Two Eurofighter Typhoon jets and two F-16s were scrambled in Romania when a drone entered the NATO member’s airspace during the Russian attacks, Romania’s Ministry of National Defense said.
The Polish military said that Polish and allied aircraft were deployed in the middle of the night as a preventive measure. Poland’s Rzeszów and Lublin airports were closed temporarily to prioritize military aviation, the Polish Air Navigation Services Agency said. In northeastern Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, Russian drones injured 46 people, including two girls, the head of the regional military administration, Oleh Syniehubov, wrote on Telegram. Drones hit several city districts, at least 16 residential buildings, an ambulance station, school and other civilian infrastructure, he said.
Russia’s Defense Ministry said Wednesday that Ukraine fired four American-supplied ATACMS missiles at the Russian city of Voronezh on Tuesday. All four were shot down, the ministry said, but the debris damaged a private house, an orphanage and a gerontology center. There were no casualties, the ministry said.
Ukraine’s General Staff on Tuesday reported firing ATACMS missiles at Russia without offering details.
Associated Press writers Stephen McGrath in Leamington Spa, England, and Konstantin Toropin in Washington contributed to this report.
G20 summit in South Africa proceeds amid US boycott and global challenges
By Mogomotsi Magome & Michelle Gumede The Associated Press
OHANNESBURG—Lead -
Jers and delegates from the world’s richest nations and top developing countries are gathering this weekend for the Group of 20 summit in South Africa, an event overshadowed by the boycott of US President Donald Trump and his administration.
Africa’s first G20 summit will see representatives of 42 countries, but not the United States, a founding member of the group and one that’s supposed to be taking over its rotating presidency in Johannesburg.
Trump has denounced South Africa’s leadership of the G20 and said he would not attend, citing alleged discrimination of the country’s white farmers. South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has said he’s told Trump that information about the alleged persecution of Afrikaners is “completely false.”
Last Friday, Trump also said that no US officials would attend the gathering. The US boycott has dominated discussions—more so than the summit’s agenda, which includes climate resilience, debt sustainability for poor nations and growing inequality.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier this year skipped the G20 meeting of foreign ministers, followed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent who missed the finance ministers meeting. The US has also urged member nations not to adopt a “Leaders Declaration” at the end of the summit, which would signal a multilateral consensus.
Still, Johannesburg has been a hive of activity ahead of the summit— workers have undertaken a massive clean-up of the streets and bright flowers have been planted along some city roads, adorned with colorful G20 banners and billboards.
CITY park employees arrange flower pots along one of Johannesburg’s major highway as a massive cleanup job begins in anticipation of the upcoming G20 summit in the South African economic capital, Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. AP PHOTO/JEROME DELAY
An empty chair WHILE the hosts have admitted that the US absence raises concerns about the summit’s ultimate success, South Africa’s foreign minister, Ronald Lamola, said Tuesday it was also an opportunity “to send a clear message that the world can move on” without the US—but that it won’t be easy.
“It will not be a walk in the park, but when there is global consensus, we can be able to find persuasive means to enable the world to function,” Lamola said.
He downplayed both Trump’s absence and those of other heads of
state who are not making it to Johannesburg, saying that a “100% attendance of heads of states” has never happened.
Lamola also cited China’s Xi Jinping who has not been travelling much this year, instead sending Premier Li Qiang to represent him—including in South Africa.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will also be absent from the summit as there is an arrest warrant against him by the International Criminal Court over Russia’s war on Ukraine. The warrant obliges South Africa, a signatory to the Rome Statute that established the court, to arrest Putin if he steps on its territory. Putin also missed the summit of the BRICS group of emerging economies in South Africa in 2023 for the same reason.
Advancing an inclusive agenda SOUTH Africa has used its presidency of the G20 to push for action to address the challenges of poor nations—such as securing financing to help countries facing the devastating effects of climate change, something independent
experts estimate would require about $1 trillion a year by 2030.
On Tuesday, an expert panel’s report called for the International Monetary Fund and G20 countries to adopt broad measures to refinance debt of poor nations.
The African Union, a G20 member, plans to speak for African countries facing climate change challenges and financial pressures, according to Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the chairperson of the African Union Commission.
Brian Kagoro, managing director at the think-tank Open Society Foundations, said that while the US boycott is “regrettable,” what matters most is the substance of what Africa advances at the summit.
“If anything, the situation underscores the need to accelerate global governance reform, ensuring that all regions, including Africa, have a meaningful voice in setting global priorities,” Kagoro said.
Support for the summit OTHER powerful countries—including France, Germany and the United Kingdom—have backed the G20 summit and their leaders are expected to arrive in South Africa on Friday, ahead of the two-day event, with many bilateral talks expected on the sidelines of the summit.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has also confirmed his attendance.
“I will be there and I am totally committed to work within the G20, to move all the key reforms that are essential in the international financial system and to create the conditions for the development agenda, particularly in Africa, to be sustainable,” Guterres said while in Angola last week.
derer at the United Nations contributed to this report.
COP30: Nations grapple with fossil fuel transition and climate finance
By Seth Borenstein, Melina Walling & Anton L. Delgado
BThe Associated Press
ELEM, Brazil—The arrival of Brazilian President Luiz Iná -
cio Lula da Silva at UN climate talks on Wednesday was hoped to spur nations to meet a self-imposed early deadline for progress on tough issues. For now, it hasn’t worked.
In a news conference late Wednesday, Lula skipped over any update on the status of talks. Instead, he renewed his earlier calls for action, making the case to delegates that the world must reduce its use of fossil fuels like oil, gas and coal.
“We haven’t found another place to live,” Lula, flanked by Brazilian negotiators and his wife, said.
Lula and several other leaders are pushing to create a road map toward transition to renewable energies. But in his remarks Wednesday, he was careful to say there’s no intention to “impose anything on anybody,” that countries could transition at their own pace and count on financial help to do so.
Lula’s return to the talks, along with the presence of U.N. SecretaryGeneral António Guterres, had stirred some optimism that COP30, as the talks are known, would move for -
ward more quickly ahead of Friday’s scheduled wrap up. Host Brazil had pushed for progress on some key issues Wednesday, but it’s routine for negotiators at these talks to miss deadlines.
Tougher climate plans, details on climate aid on the table COP30 President André Corrêa do Lago had given negotiators a Wednesday deadline for a decision on four interconnected issues that were initially excluded from the official agenda: whether countries should be told to toughen their new climate plans; details on handing out $300 billion in pledged climate aid; dealing with trade barriers over climate and improving reporting on transparency and climate progress.
Scores of countries, rich and poor, are also pushing for a detailed road map on how to phase out fossil fuels. And that’s key to toughening new climate plans for a shot at limiting future warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit), the global goal set in 2015’s Paris Agreement. In 2023, after days of contentious debate, climate talks agreed to language calling for a transition away from fossil fuels—coal, oil and natural gas. But little has been done since to clarify or amplify on that one sentence. Protesters inside and outside
BRAZIL President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva speaks during a news conference at the COP30 UN Climate Summit, Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, in Belem, Brazil. AP PHOTO/ANDRE PENNER
the conference venue kept pushing for a phaseout.
A group of scientists Wednesday criticized current proposals for a fossil fuel phaseout road map as inadequate, particularly to reach the goal of zero fossil fuel emissions by 2045 at the latest.
“A road map is not a workshop or a ministerial meeting. A road map is a real workplan that needs to show us the way from where we are to where we need to be, and how to get there,” said a letter from seven prominent scientists, including some who are advising the COP30 presidency.
Lula and fossil fuels
LULA, in talking to leaders earlier in Belem, boosted the efforts of clarifying how to wean the world from the fuels that emit heat-trapping gases, the chief cause of climate change.
The Brazilian president has also been pushing for more participation in a new multibillion international fund financed by interest-bearing
debt instead of donations, called the Tropical Forests Forever Facility. It seeks to make it more lucrative for governments to keep their trees rather than cut them down.
Iskander Erzini Vernoit, director of the IMAL Initiative for Climate and Development, an independent thinktank based in Morocco, said it won’t be easy for Guterres and Lula to find common ground among negotiators.
“Various apparent impasses still remain, and chief among these from an African point of view is the unwillingness of the EU and other rich countries to engage on their obligation to provide climate finance,” Erzini Vernoit said.
Implementation is key to cut global warming GOING into this two-week conference, Brazilian leaders emphasized the importance of focusing on implementation, starting action on agreements, targets and pledges already made, over new deals.
If nations met the goals set at past climate talks of tripling renewables, doubling energy efficiency and cutting methane by 2030, the rate of global warming could be cut by a third within a decade and a half by 2040, according to a new report by Climate Analytics.
Neil Grant, a climate policy analysis expert and lead author of the report, said this could rescue the goal set a decade ago in the Paris Agreement.
While climate leaders have conceded that the world is on track to overshoot this climate goal, Grant said: “We have the tools to transition away from fossil fuels. Although the hour is dark, we still have agency.”
Corruption scandal pressures Ukraine’s Zelenskyy to show greater accountability
By Samya Kullab & Isobel Koshiw The Associated Press
KYIV, Ukraine—Pressure is mounting on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to take stronger action to show accountability in the face of a corruption scandal presenting the greatest threat to his government since Russia’s fullscale invasion.
Last week, Zelenskyy dismissed two top officials and imposed sanctions on close associates after government investigators revealed that $100 million had been embezzled from the country’s energy sector through kickbacks paid by contractors.
But that hasn’t quieted the political storm. After more than three years of war in which Ukrainians face regular power outages as a result of Russia’s fierce bombardment, corruption in the energy sector isn’t sitting well with the public. Calls are growing for Zelenskyy to remove his longtime chief of staff, Andrii Yermak, who many consider to be Ukraine’s de facto vice president.
Neither Zelenskyy nor Yermak have been accused of any wrongdoing by those leading the corruption investigation. Yet Zelenskyy’s political opponents—as well as allies worried the scandal could weaken their parliamentary governing coalition—say more senior leaders need to be held accountable to restore public trust.
Zelenskyy’s critics say it’s also important to bolster credibility with Ukraine’s Western allies, whose support is vital to the war effort and in eventually negotiating an end to the conflict.
“It’s really hard to imagine that all this happening at the behest of people from the outside without political support,” Anastasia Radina, the head of parliament’s anti-corruption committee, said on Facebook on Wednesday. By not cutting ties with Yermak, Zelenskyy is “provoking an even greater internal crisis,” she said.
The country has been plagued by corruption since gaining independence, and Zelenskyy was elected on a mandate to eliminate graft.
Two officials in Zelenskyy’s office say the president has not made any decision to dismiss Yermak. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were no authorized to brief journalists.
Zelenskyy dismisses top officials, sanctions close associates
THE investigation conducted by Ukraine’s anti-corruption watchdogs implicated high-ranking Ukrainian officials with pressuring contractors to pay up to 15 percent kickbacks in exchange for construction business with Ukraine’s state-owned nuclear energy company, Energoatom.
The investigation involved over 1,000 hours of wiretaps of individuals using code names and cryptic language to discuss the scheme. In some conversations, references were made to a powerful figure operating under the alias “Ali Baba,” though this
person’s identity has not been made public, if it is even known.
After the scheme was made public, Ukraine’s parliament approved Zelenskyy’s dismissal of the country’s energy and justice ministers, and the president’s office imposed sanctions on close associates who were implicated, including Tymur Mindich, a co-owner of Zelenskyy’s media production company.
The scandal landed just as Russian airstrikes had left millions of Ukrainians without power, which only intensified the furor. Earlier this year, Zelenskyy faced criticism for trying to weaken the watchdog agencies leading the investigation.
Zelenskyy’s political opponents say it is hard to believe that such a huge corruption scheme could have taken place without the knowledge of Yermak—the presidential adviser who has towered over Ukrainian politics for six years—though they have not provided any evidence to support the allegation.
Yermak has not publicly addressed the calls for his resignation.
However, Yermak has apparently sought to bolster his support within the government. He sought to arrange a meeting with Ukraine’s popular former army chief, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, who is currently Ukraine’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, according to an official close to Zaluzhnyi who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly. The request for a meeting was denied, the official said. Yermak’s spokesperson did not respond to request for comment.
Political pressure grows
ZELENSKYY’S landslide victory in 2019 resulted in him obtaining around two-thirds of the seats in parliament. Many of his allies favor Yermak’s resignation, said lawmaker Oleksandr Merezhko, who is a member of the president’s political party.
“The faction and the parliament don’t want to bear responsibility for the corruption,” he said. Around 30 members of parliament from Zelenskyy’s party are campaigning to create a coalition of national stability based on unity and not political interests and backroom deals, said Mykyta Porturaev, a leading Zelenskyy party lawmaker. But the head of Zelenskyy’s party, David Arakhamia, said Porturaev’s announcement did not reflect the official party line. Ukraine’s parliamentary speaker, Ruslan Stefanchuk, said lawmakers are consulting on next steps.
A powerful figure
YERMAK met Zelenskyy over 15 years ago when he was a lawyer venturing into the TV production business and Zelenskyy was a famous Ukrainian comedian and actor.
Yermak plays a central role in Zelenskyy’s administration in managing relationships with the US and other Western countries, and developing possible scenarios for a ceasefire with Russia.
The World
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Israeli airstrikes hit Lebanon and Gaza amid rising tensions
By Hussein Malla, Bassem Mroue & Wafaa Shurafa
The Associated Press
SIDON, Lebanon—The Israeli military carried out barrages of airstrikes in southern Lebanon Wednesday on what it said were Hezbollah sites, including weapons storage facilities, after a drone strike earlier in the day killed one person and wounded several others, including students on a bus.
The new wave of strikes came a day after an airstrike killed 13 people in the Palestinian refugee camp of Ein el-Hilweh, the deadliest of Israeli attacks on Lebanon since a ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah war a year ago. Meanwhile, after Israel reported its soldiers were fired on in southern Gaza, health officials in the territory said Israeli strikes killed at least 25 Palestinians in one of the deadliest days in Gaza since the Oct. 10 ceasefire agreement took effect. Separately, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled to a buffer zone in Syrian territory that Israel seized last year.
Israel claims Hezbollah is regrouping
ISRAEL’S military warned Wednesday it would strike targets in several villages in southern Lebanon, describing them as Hezbollah infrastructure, and called on people to move away from the locations. More than an hour later, strikes began in the villages of Shehour and Deir Kifa.
Israel’s military said Hezbollah was working to reestablish itself and rebuild its capacity in southern Lebanon, without providing evidence. It said the weapons’ facilities targeted were embedded among civilians and violated understandings between Israel and Lebanon. Israel agreed to a ceasefire and withdraw from southern Lebanon last year and Lebanon agreed to quell Hezbollah activity in the area. Earlier Wednesday, an Israeli airstrike on a car in the southern Lebanese village of Tiri killed one person and wounded 11, including students aboard a nearby bus, the Lebanese Health Ministry and state media said. State-run National News Agency said the school bus happened to be passing near the car that was hit.
Israel’s military later said it killed a Hezbollah operative in the drone strike.
In Ein el-Hilweh refugee camp, just outside the port city of Sidon, life appeared normal Wednesday. Lebanese authorities prevented journalists from entering. At the scene of the strike, paramedics searched for human remains around a wall that was stained with blood. Several cars were burned and broken glass and debris littered the ground.
The Israeli military said it struck a Hamas training compound that was being used to prepare an attack against Israel and its army. It added that the Israeli army would continue to act against Hamas wherever it operates.
Hamas denied in a statement that the sports playground that was hit was its training compound.
Palestinian factions in refugee camps hand over weapons
PALESTINIAN factions in Lebanon’s 12 refugee camps earlier this year began handing over their weapons to the Lebanese state. The government has said that it will also work on disarming Hezbollah, but Hezbollah has rejected it as long as Israel continues to occupy several hills along the border and carries out almost daily strikes.
The US has recently increased pressure on Lebanon to work harder on disarming Hezbollah and canceled a planned trip to Washington this week by Lebanese army commander Gen. Rudolph Haikal.
A senior Lebanese army officer told The Associated Press that US officials were angered by an army statement on Sunday that blamed Israel for destabilizing Lebanon and blocking the Lebanese military deployment in south Lebanon. The officer spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasn’t authorized to speak publicly.
The latest Israel-Hezbollah war began Oct. 8, 2023, a day after Hamas attacked southern Israel, after Hezbollah fired rockets into Israel in solidarity with Hamas. Israel launched a widespread bombardment of Lebanon two months ago that severely weakened Hezbollah, followed by a ground invasion.
Mroue reported from Beirut. Shurafa reported from Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip. Melanie Lidman and Abby Sewell in Tel Aviv, Israel and Beirut, Lebanon contributed to this report.
“To give hope today, we must continue to engage, to dialogue, and to discern. There is time for silence and introspection. There is time to speak out the truth in love.”
“When we take a stand, we do so with a clear conscience. Not from an agenda. Not from self-interest,” he added.
“We are deeply divided and highly vindictive.”
The Cardinal described the current media environment: “Our media landscape in the Philippines today is often marked by harassment and trolling, disinformation and threats, polarization and pressure,” he said. “Not only are we deeply divided; we are also highly vindictive. We tend to dehumanize and demonize those who do not belong to our group, to our party or tribe.” He urged Filipinos to return to their core value of kapwa. “We seem to have conveniently forgotten that our core value as a people is kapwa and pakikipagkapwa. We admire people who are ‘mabuti ang kalooban, may prinsipyo at may paninindigan.’”
A call to media: “We will not stop until the truth comes out”
TO the CMMA finalists and winners, the Cardinal delivered one of the evening’s most compelling messages:
“We would be remiss in our mission and purpose if we are not ready to hold people accountable for their lies and trickeries,” he said. “Our time calls for reckoning and accounting.”
He affirmed the commitment expected of Christian communicators. “We will not stop until the truth comes out. We will never be tired in pursuing justice and restitution. We will not trade integrity for favor or self-interest.” He concluded by congratulating the honorees and reminding them of their mission. “May you embody the hope that you report. May you guard the truth you disseminate. May you uphold the dignity of the people that you serve.”
The 47th CMMA continues its mission of honoring media that inspire, enlighten, and uphold the highest moral values, a mission Cardinal Advincula says is more urgent today than ever.
CMMA was established in 1978 by the late Jaime Cardinal Sin to honor media that uplifts faith and values. In 1999, stewardship of the awards was entrusted to the late Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua, whose dedication strengthened its mission. Today, that legacy continues under the leadership of its current chairman, D. Edgard A. Cabangon.
Friday, November 21, 2025
Marcos vows to elevate OFW protection, recognizing their heroic contributions
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
RESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos has vowed
Pto further elevate the protection and welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFW) for their heroic sacrifices and contributions to nation-building through streamlined and enhanced services and programs.
The Chief Executive made the commitment during the awarding ceremony of the 2025 Bagong Bayani in Malacañang last Thursday. “Through the Department of Migrant Workers [DMW], we shall continue to elevate protection, streamline services, and ensure that every OFW is treated as the hero that they are,” he said.
The DMW has already initiated digitialization initiatives such as the OFW Travel Pass in the eGovPH App and the Online Employment Contract Verification System to make it more convenient for OFWs to secure their exit clearance and work abroad.
Its OFW Hospital and the OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) Botika provided better healthcare to OFWs and their families, while the OFW Lounge improved travel experience in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
The agency also provides legal, medical, and financial aid to OFWs through the Agarang Kalinga sa mga OFW (overseas Filipino workers) na Nangangailangan (AKSYON) Fund, intensified campaign against human trafficking, and an extensive reintegration
services, which includes start-up capital, financial literacy training, and livelihood support.
Marcos pointed out the said initiative is in recognition of the valuable contribution of OFWs, including the Bagong Bayani Winners, to the country such as the US$26.03 billion remittances during the first nine months of 2025.
“We will do our best to protect and support every Bagong Bayani [New Heroes]. My beloved OFWs, you are the strength and light of our Bagong Pilipinas [New Philippines],” he said.
Established in 1983 through the Letter of Instruction No. 1320 issued by the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., the Bagong Bayani Awards recognized OFWs who showcased professionalism, excellence, and
dedication in their work.
This year’s Bagong Bayani awardees are Engr. Romaline Dizon Isla for Outstanding Employee; Eva Rasgo Mapa for Community and Social Service; Michael Palic Conjusta for Culture and the Arts; Capt. Rolly Tenorio Lapinig and the 18 Filipino Crew of MV MSC Aube F for Heroic Act); and Camille Figueras Jesalva-Junio for the Susan “Toots” V. Ople Award.
For the Bagong Bayani Award for Successful Reintegration, the awardees are Elaine Vianca G. Figueroa, Ruellyn S. Ribon, and Alexander Inday Sebastian.
Capt. Gaudencio C. Morales was awarded both the Bagong Bayani Award for Successful Reintegration and Capt. Gregorio Oca Achievement Award.
Lawmakers push for livestreamed bicameral meetings to restore trust in budget process
LAWMAKERS on Thursday called for an “open and transparent” bicameral conference committee through livestreamed proceedings to restore public trust amid allegations of insertions in previous budgets.
In a joint statement, House Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Partylist Rep. Leila de Lima and fellow Liberal Party (LP) lawmakers urged the Committee to implement a raft of measures to ensure transparency.
“Amid the corruption issues hounding the passage of previous national budgets— made worse by the secretive nature of the bicameral conference committee where controversial insertions are allegedly made— implementing an open and transparent bicam is long overdue. It is not optional. It is nonnegotiable,” the solons said.
The House earlier passed the proposed P6.793 trillion National Budget for 2026 on third and final reading, with the Senate plenary budget deliberations ongoing. This would be moved to the bicam following the Senate’s approval.
As such, the lawmakers said the Committee should livestream the full bicameral meetings, including deliberations, while comprehensive bicameral meetings should be published.
They also seek the presentation of the detailed matrix of the differences between the House’s and the Senate’s proposed General Appropriations Bill (GAB), and how these differences were reconciled. Furthermore, machine-readable copies of House GAB, Senate GAB, House and Senate committee reports, and bicam reports should be publicly available.
The lawmakers also noted that amendments, including the names of the members of the panel and their respective chambers who proposed these changes, should be disclosed.
Lastly, they said the media should be allowed to cover the entire bicam proceedings, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) should have access and the opportunity to raise questions and comments during the bicam.
Kaban ng bayan ang pinag-uusapan. May pakialam ang lahat kung paano at saan nilalaan at ginagastos ang pera ng mamamayan. Sa tama, angkop at makabuluhang mga programa, proyekto at serbisyo ba ito napupunta? O sa mga bulsangmgatiwalingopisyalatkawaning pamahalaanatngkanilangmgakasabwat sa pribadong sektor?” the joint statement
Governors and mayors rally behind Marcos amidst calls for resignation
FACED with calls for his resignation and the threat of destabilization efforts, President Ferdinand Marcos got the backing of the country’s governors and mayors.
L ast Thursday, Marcos met with members of the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP) in Malacañang to show their support to his administration.
It is a gross injustice to continue denying access of the public to the proceedings of the bicam, which constitutes a deprivation of the constitutionally guaranteed right of the Filipino people to information on matters of public concern. They are entitled to know where every centavo of their taxes goes,” it added.
Earlier, lawmakers filed Joint Resolution No. 2 to institutionalize public access to bicam proceedings.
“We hope that our colleagues in the House of Representatives and in the Senate recognize the urgency of implementing an open and transparent bicam,” the solons said. Ada Pelonia
Sweden brings smart innovation, boosts responsible mining in PHL
By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
TEAM Sweden, comprising the Embassy of Sweden, Business Sweden, and leading Swedish mining technology companies, announced new agreements and future initiatives in sustainable, innovative, and responsible mining in the Philippines.
The announcement was made at the 71st Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference (ANMSEC) happening in Baguio City from November 18 to 21.
The annual conference highlights mine safety and the environment, showcasing and recognizing best practices in mine safety and environmental protection.
Among the agreements is one involving Business Sweden and Apex Mining Co., Inc., which aims to build closer engagement with Swedish mining technology providers, ranging from established firms to emerging innovators, by forming connections and promoting knowledge exchange.
Through the partnership, Apex Mining will be in a better position to explore digital solutions that enhance operational efficiency, improve safety, and reduce environmental impact. The collaboration reflects Sweden’s broader advocacy for sustainable and responsible mining, underpinned by innovation and international cooperation.
collaboration, is a definite step in the right direction for our mining industry,” Luis R. Sarmiento, ASEAN Engineer and President of Apex Mining Co., Inc., said for his part. Wireless underground connection TEAM Sweden also announced a pilot initiative between Apex Mining and Swedish firm Epiroc, featuring the first deployment of Radlink—a wireless underground connectivity solution—by a Filipino-owned mining company. This sets the foundation for real-time monitoring and data-informed decision-making, positioning Apex as a frontrunner in smart mining. Once it is operational, the pilot may serve as a reference for other Philippine mining firms exploring digital integration, with continued engagement from Swedish technology providers such as Epiroc, Volvo Construction Equipment, and Axis Communications, among others.
Smart and responsible mining
EMBASSY of Sweden, Business Sweden, and the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association (PMSEA) co-organized Philippine–Sweden Smart Mining Forum which convened key stakeholders from Philippine mining firms, government agencies, and academia, including the University of the Philippines Diliman (UP Diliman), Mindanao State University (MSU), and Sweden’s Luleå University of Technology (LTU).
I n response to the said trust, Castro said Marcos will “ensure the go vernment continues to promote transparency, accountability, and responsible use of public money, especially in the national budget processing.”
T he LPP issued a resolution last Tuesday, rallying its members to throw their support to the Marcos administration to protect
“ The purpose of the LPP’s courtesy call is to convey their support for the leadership of President Marcos Jr. and their support for the passage of important legislative proposals,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a press briefing in Malacañang. She said the P resident thanked the LPP for their message of support.
it “from adversaries of the Constitution, democracy, and good governance.”
The LPP encourages its memberprovinces and their governors to remain steadfast in promoting peace, stability and accountable governance, and to work closely with national authorities in safeguarding our institutions and upholding the Constitution, democracy and rule of law,” the two-page resolution said.
T he League of Cities of the Philippines also expressed its support to the President in a statement posted in its social media page.
I t recognized Marcos’ initiatives to empower local government units by enhancing their infrastructures, education, health, and services while upholding transparency, accountability and public governance.
As cities, we remain steadfast in fulfilling our mandate to serve the Filipino people and pursue programs that uplift communities. We are committed to aligning our efforts with the President’s
“This partnership reflects Business Sweden’s commitment to assisting Filipino mining firms in navigating the Swedish innovation ecosystem. By streamlining access to proven technologies, we are accelerating the sector’s transition to smarter, safer, and more responsible practices,” Emil Akander, Vice President for Asia and the Pacific at Business Sweden, said in a statement shared through Business Sweden in Manila.
“Gaining access to the innovative mining ecosystem of Sweden, which we have had since last year through our formalized
Ambassador Anna Ferry opened the forum by signifying Sweden’s role as a trusted innovation partner in the Philippines’ mining sector. “Smart mining is more than just technology; it is about transforming operations to be safe, energy efficient, and environmentally responsible. Dialogue and consultations with all stakeholders are also critical,” she said. Ferry also boasts that Sweden has
DOE aims to lower off-grid power costs with renewable energy hybridization project
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
THE Department of Energy (DOE) is looking to implement a hybridization project for the Small Power Utilities Group (SPUG) diesel power plants using renewable energy (RE) resources through private sector participation. The agency said Thursday it is working with government and financial sector partners to design new low-interest financing models for RE developers to accelerate the hybridization of off-grid areas served by the SPUG of the National Power Corporation (Napocor). The parties involved in the discussion are the Philippine Solar and Storage Energy Alliance (PSSEA), Philippine Hydro, Inc. (Phil Hydro), Wind Energy Development Association of the Philippines (WEDAP), multilateral banks and RE developers. According to DOE Undersecretary Rowena Cristina L. Guevara, the true cost of
Manila Water and Antipolo LGU inaugurate Hinulugang Taktak STP
By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
ANILA Water Company formally
Minaugurated the Hinulugang Taktak Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) during a simple ceremony at the project site in Antipolo City, on November 7.
A key component of Manila Water’s
P2.2-billion Hinulugang Takta k Sewerage System Project, the STP is designed to treat up to 16 million liters of wastewater per day.
It is strategically located near the iconic Hinulugang Taktak Falls, a historic 70-foot waterfall located in Antipolo City, and a popular natural attraction that has undergone significant rehabilitation to restore its natural beauty and facilities for visitors.
The park is managed by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Rizal Provincial Government, offers several activities and amenities, including a waterfall view, swimming pool, a canopy walk, wall climbing, and a picnic area.
The Sapang Baho River or sometimes referred to as the Taktak River is an important water source that feeds Hinulugang Taktak.
In a statement, Manila Water said the STP facility aims to protect water bodies in the Upper Marikina River Basin and support the rehabilitation of the national park.
The STP’s commissioning marks a significant step in Manila Water’s longterm goal of expanding sewer coverage and improving sanitation across the East Zone in close coordination with national and local government partners.
DENR Undersecretary Joselin Fragada Rizal Governor Nina Ricci YnaresChiongbian, Antipolo City Mayor Casimiro “Jun” Ynares III, and Vice Mayor Randy Puno Jr. attended the ceremony.
Also present were representatives from the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), led by Chairperson Elpidio J. Vega, Administrator Leonor “Bobby” Cleofas, and MWSS Regulatory Office Chief Regulator Patrick Lester N. Ty, along with their respective teams.
Manila Water President and CEO J.V. Emmanuel “Jocot” de Dios led key officials of Manila Water, including Chief Operating Officer for East Zone Arnold Jether A. Mortera; Project Management Group
Adviser Angel Gonzalez Angel Gonzalez; Program Management Director Renato C. Belmonte; Project Management Deputy Director Jocelyn M. General; Program Management Senior Manager Francis Erwin A. Cruz; East Zone Business Operations Director Shoebe Caong; and Rizal Business Operations Director Romely T. Paraiso.
“It really is a commitment of Manila Water and the Razon Group to ensure that our hosts and partners work collaboratively to improve the quality of life for everyone.
This [HT STP] is a living testament to what we want to accomplish,” De Dios said.
For his part, Ynares said the collaborative effort boosts the protection of Hinulugang Taktak, an important water source.
“Our collaboration is saving and preserving the allure of Hinulugang Taktak for future generations of Filipinos. Thank you for doing your part to ensure that the partnership we began seven years ago has become a successful endeavor,” Ynares said.
Governor Nina Ynares-Chiongbian emphasized the importance of honoring Hinulugang Taktak’s heritage while embracing progress through the new STP
“The inauguration of the HT STP today is about moving forward—about improvement and about tomorrow. However, we cannot reach tomorrow without looking to our past. Looking to the past gives value to Hinulugang Taktak,” she said.
Undersecretary Fragada, representing DENR Secretary Rafael Lotilla, highlighted the alignment of Manila Water’s HT STP project with the national government’s efforts to create a climate-resilient citizenry.
“This project aligns squarely with DENR’s overarching thrust, under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., to build resilient, climate-smart, and sustainable communities through integrated environmental management,” Usec. Fragada said in his keynote speech.
MWSS Administrator Bobby Cleofas emphasized the valuable contributions of private companies, such as Manila Water, in delivering sustainable services to Filipinos.
“The Hinulugang Taktak Sewage Treatment Plant is not only a triumph for the water sector but also a representation of an effective public-private partnership,” MWSS Administrator Cleofas said.
DAR’s ‘26 ₧17.4 billion budget to boost efforts in land tenure security, agrarian justice–Estrella
DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III on Thursday said the approval of the agency’s proposed budget for 2026 amounting to P17.4 billion will boost the delivery of various programs.
Estrella issued the statement following the Senate’s approval of DAR’s proposed budget.
Senate President Vicente C. Sotto III formally concluded and approved the DAR’s proposed 2026 budget during the Senate budget hearing held on Tuesday, 18 November 2025.
The deliberation of the proposed budget were sponsored by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, with Secretary Estrella in attendance alongside DAR undersecretaries, assistant secretaries, and regional directors.
Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri also commended the DAR and Secretary Estrella for their “stellar and significant achievements” in the past year.
“The allocation of this budget to the agency’s key programs will further strengthen our efforts to deliver land tenure security, agrarian justice, and essential support services to farmers nationwide,” Estrella said.
The DAR chief has identified the key allocations in the proposed budget including the P5.1 billion for Project SPLIT or Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling.
He said the budget allocation will fasttrack the subdivision of collective land titles into individual titles for agrarian reform beneficiaries.
The DAR chief also said the P9.5 billion allocated for Land Tenure Security Program will continue the distribution of the remaining private and public agricultural lands next year.
Meanwhile, the Agrarian Justice Delivery Program secured P1.4 billion, specifically dedicated to expediting the resolution of agrarian cases, including the hiring of additional lawyers.
The DAR chief also underscored the importance of the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Development and Sustainability Program (ARBDSP) which has a budget allocation of P1.87 billion next year.
He said the program will boost enterprise development, capacity-building, and training to help agrarian reform beneficiaries enhance their livelihoods. Jonathan L. Mayuga
Palace: Cabinet revamp due to performance, not investigation into alleged budget insertions
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
DESPITE the recent major revamp in the Cabinet following allegations that some members were involved in inserting P100 billion worth of projects into the 2025 national budget, Malacañang has stated that no internal investigation is currently being conducted.
Instead, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro attributed the recent changes in the Cabinet to the performance evaluation, which is regularly conducted by President Ferdinand Marcos.
“I can’t say anything that everyone [in the Cabinet] is under investigation. So, what the President can only carry out is the usual and regular performance [evaluation] of each cabinet,” she said in Filipino in a press briefing last Thursday.
Since the start of Marcos’ presidency in 2022, his Cabinet has already undergone several revamps due to the “voluntary resignation” of some of its members or as a result of the chief executive’s performance assessment secretaries.
The latest to leave the Cabinet were former Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin and former Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary
Amenah F. Pangandaman after they were linked to the allegations made by former Ako Bicol Party list representative Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co that Marcos ordered the insertion of P100 billion worth of projects in the 2025 budget.
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson claimed Bersamin helped in facilitating the collection of P52 billion worth of kickbacks from the 2025 budget, which the former executive secretary denied.
Last Monday, Castro announced the voluntary resignation of Bersamin and Pangandaman. However, the former executive secretary said he was ordered to
Bam to Co: ‘Come home and tell all’ about flood control project anomalies
SBy Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
ENATOR Bam Aquino has been urging
former Representative Zaldy Co to return to the Philippines and “testify under oath about his allegations.”
Aquino, a two-time senator, has called on Co to come back and formally present his claims, emphasizing the need to reveal everything he knows regarding the questionable flood control projects and controversial budget insertions.
“I echo iyong sinasabi ng simbahan at ng maraming grupo na he should come home,” Aquino said, referring to Co, who recently posted a three-part revelation naming President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez as recipients of kickbacks from the P100billion insertions in the 2025 budget.
“Come home, face the DOJ [Department of Justice], face the ICI [Independent Commission for Infrastructure], face the Blue Ribbon, be under oath, and tell all, basically,” he added.
Aquino reiterated that all those involved in the anomalous flood control projects must be held accountable, the
government must recover the stolen money, and systemic reforms must be introduced to avoid a repeat of such anomalies in the future.
“Sino ba talaga yung sangkot? Dapat ikulong sila. And hopefully, sooner than later, iyongpera,hindipwedengwalalang. That’s over a trillion, or about a trillion pesos, over the last couple of years na nawala. Kailangan may serious attempt to get back that money,” the senator stressed.
“And of course, baguhinangsistema.Huwag tayong pumayag na after one year, ganto na naman tayo, na masisingitan na naman tayo ng kung sino-sino,” he added.
Aquino also pushed for the passage of his Senate Bill No. 1506, the Citizen Access and Disclosure of Expenditures for National Accountability (CADENA) Act, to ensure transparency in the use of public funds. “We really have to change the system. Pass the CADENA Act, have a better budget, and get people more interested in where their money goes,” he pointed out.
Under Senate Bill No. 1506, also known as the Blockchain the Budget Act, all government agencies will be mandated to upload and maintain budget-related documents—including contracts, project
costs, bills of materials, and procurement details—in a Digital Budget Platform, making the process transparent and accessible to the public.
If passed into law, Aquino said government officials who fail to publicly disclose budget-related documents or deliberately upload false information will face administrative and criminal penalties under the CADENA Act.
Lalagyan po natin ng pangil ang CADENA Act. Kungmaymgadokumentona hindipona-publish ngahensyasakanilang website o sa CADENA platform sa loob ng pitongaraw,mayroonpong administrative penalty. Atkungpagkataposngtatlumpung araw hindi pa rin naisasapubliko ang kontrata, bill of materials, o kahit ano mang minandatong dokumento ng batas, magiging criminal offense po ito,” Aquino said in his sponsorship speech for Senate Bill No. 1506.
“Makukulong ang isang indibidwal na nag-upload ng false or misleading budgetrelated information. Atangprobisyonnaito, na penalty, ayparapaniguradonahindipo garbage in, garbage out angmangyayarisa CADENA. Ibig sabihin po, wala pong takas dito,” he added.
AFP renders full military honors to JPE
By Rex Anthony Naval
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines
(AFP) rendered full military honors during a necrological service for the country’s longest-serving statesman, former Secretary of National Defense, Senate President, and Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile, in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Wednesday.
AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. led the ceremony honoring Enrile, the military
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generation (TCGR) in SPUG areas averages about P18 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and can go as high as P62/kWh in some locations. However, consumers in these off-grid areas pay only around P7 to P8/kWh, in line with the subsidized rates approved by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). The difference, roughly P10–11/ kWh on average is covered by subsidies
said in a statement Thursday.
“Gen. Brawner, together with Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., led the military organization in paying their final respects to the veteran lawmaker and national security pillar whose extensive government service spanned generations of Filipino soldiers and citizens,” it added.
In his tribute, Brawner underscored Enrile’s profound contributions to the nation’s history and the Armed Forces.
“Secretary Enrile was present in many
collected from all electricity consumers nationwide.
“Hybridization of SPUG areas through the integration of RE can bring cleaner, reliable, and more affordable electricity in the long run for the Filipinos who need it most. But to make this happen, we need to address and deal with one major challenge -financing,” Guevara said.
“We are here to explore a bold possibility of enabling low-interest financing for renewable energy developers without sovereign guarantees and without the usual
UK meat firms seek PHL expansion to boost local supply and forge stronger trade links
THREE meat processing firms from the United Kingdom (UK) are seeking to expand their market in the Philippines and beef up the country’s meat supply. Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) international trade development director Jonathan Eckley said the UK is looking at exporting more pork, beef, and lamb products into the Philippines.
As such, Eckley noted that three meat suppliers held meetings and site visits this week to understand the Philippine market and explore business opportunities.
T his move is part of the AHDB’s annual trade mission to help develop markets and ensure that relationships forged during the initiative remains strong. The mission is currently in its eighth year.
“We know a number of importers, so it’s always good to meet existing clients. But we also want to meet new clients as well,” Eckley told reporters on the sidelines of a trade event in Makati City on Thursday.
“The Philippines has been a really good market for the UK. While we’re close to Europe, which is really important to us, markets further afield than Europe are
increasingly important,” he said, noting that the country is their second largest market for pork exports outside of Europe. The companies part of the UK’s trade mission this year are QK Group, Dunbia, and Foyle Food Group. In a statement, QK Group said it offers a range of meat products and offals, and remains committed to working with the AHDB to develop export opportunities in the Philippines. Dunbia is among Europe’s leading meat processing companies, while Foyle Food Group is a family-owned business with over 45 years of experience in the beef
processing industry. Both are based in Northern Ireland. Meanwhile, Eckley said the UK is poised to reach a record value of pork, beef, and lamb shipments globally, from the all-time high £1.72 billion in 2024.
“It will be higher [than the £1.72 billion for 2025]. We’re on for a record year again this year,” he said.
Data from the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) showed that the UK has exported 580 metric tons (MT) of beef to the Philippines; 1,032 MT of chicken; and 15,372 MT of pork as of September. Ada Pelonia
vacate his post.
The Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary maintained that Bersamin voluntarily resigned.
“The Palace acknowledges former Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin’s clarification regarding the manner of his transition,” Castro said.
“As he [Bersamin] himself stated in his interview, he submitted himself to the President’s discretion and prerogative as part of the ongoing reorganization. The Palace announcement was issued in line with this understanding and with due regard for stability and continuity in governance,” she added.
13 mining companies and a strict zerotolerance policy for accidents. Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla delivered a message of support at the forum’s inaugural session. He cited Kiruna in Northern Sweden, one of the most advanced underground mineral sites, as an example of how digitalization, electrification, and automation in minerals development can deliver efficiency and environmental responsibility. He also welcomed future collaborations with Swedish institutions such as LTU. LTU presented Sweden’s triple-helix model, demonstrating that an efficient collaboration between government, industry, and academia has enabled a globally competitive and sustainable mining ecosystem. The Center of Advanced Mining and Metallurgy (CAMM), represented by Noberto Jr. Aquino, shows how the organization applies the triple-helix model in maximizing the reach, quality, and quantities of their projects with the goal of sustainability and innovation. The main goal of the talk is to showcase the possibility of applying the triple-helix model in the Philippine context. CAMM is open to help realize this model in the Philippines and build long-term partnerships for academic, research, and development.
Swedish innovative technologies
defining chapters of our nation—not as a distant observer, but as a principal actor who carried the weight of national decisions on his shoulders. His contributions, his insights, and his long record of national service form part of the institutional memory of the AFP and the Republic he sought to strengthen,” the AFP chief said.
Also present were senior military leaders, defense officials, and personnel who had worked with Enrile over the decades of his public service.
required power supply agreements. As we enter retail competition and open access, where contracts are shorter, this might seem ambitious—but it is possible and would surely help transform how we scale RE in the Philippines,” she added. Participants presented potential models, instruments, and financing pathways that may be adapted for SPUG contexts, while also outlining practical bottlenecks and risks that hinder project deployment, particularly in small-scale and geographically dispersed off-grid systems.
Resignation. . .
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initiativesand to keeping our focus on our shared mission of building a just, progressive, and resilient nation,” it added. Last w eek, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said (AFP) it is looking into the alleged involvement of some government officials and former uniformed personnel in destabilization efforts.
I t also said it is now looking into the possible “foreign funding” in the recent anti-government demonstrations conducted by the United People’s Initiative. Samuel P. Medenilla
SWEDISH companies, including Axis Communications, Epiroc, and Volvo Construction Equipment (via distributor Civic Merchandising) showcased innovations in digitalization, electrification, and safety, reinforcing Sweden’s global standing in smart and sustainable mining technologies.
The forum builds on the strategic partnership formalized in 2024 through the PMSEA–Business Sweden MoU, which aims to foster knowledge exchange, promote sustainable mining technologies, and create platforms for advancing responsible mining practices.
Team Sweden’s Broader Engagement BEYOND the forum, Team Sweden actively participated in key activities of the 71st ANMSEC, including the mining exhibit opening ceremony and the Community Relations Conference (ComRelCon). Ambassador Anna Ferry delivered a keynote address at ComRelCon, continuing Sweden’s tradition of high-level engagement in the conference, following last year’s keynote delivered by her predecessor. Ambassador Ferry also participated in a networking event hosted by DIWATA-Women in Resource Development and Raniag Minera of OceanaGold Philippines, Inc. This sustained presence affirms Sweden’s commitment to promoting responsible mining practices in the Philippines. LTU, UP Diliman, and MSU held academic collaboration meetings to explore opportunities for joint research and capacity-building. Team Sweden also visited Swedish company booths and conducted a site visit to Itogon-Suyoc Resources Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Apex Mining Co., Inc., to observe local mining operations and explore avenues for integrating Swedish technologies into Philippine mining environments..
Navigating ambition and reality: Can PHL achieve its lofty economic goals?
THE government’s renewed insistence on a 6‑percent growth target for next year, despite clear signs of economic softening, reflects both ambition and necessity. With the country’s po tential pegged at 6 to 7 percent, as Economic Planning Secretary Ar senio Balisacan stresses, falling short means underutilizing national capacity and endangering long‑term visions such as AmBisyon Natin 2040. The goal, in principle, is sound: a nation cannot aspire to high‑income status while settling for middling growth. (Read the BusinessMirror story, “Serious cleanups may yet restore investor trust: Arsi,” November 19, 2025).
But ambition alone cannot offset structural weaknesses. This year’s likely downward revision of growth projections signals persistent lapses in governance, planning, and budget execution—issues the administration now promises to correct. Balisacan’s emphasis on “cleanups” in project implementation is welcome, but overdue. Investors and the public have long demanded accountability; only credible reforms, not optimistic forecasts, can restore trust. Outgoing Finance Secretary Ralph Recto’s tempered outlook—5 to 6 percent growth next year—offers a more realistic baseline. His assurance that the deficit will remain on target is encouraging, but cutting operational expenses while sparing capital outlays will require discipline.
The chasm between the current struggles and next year’s projected leap raises serious questions about whether governance reforms alone are sufficient. First and foremost, we must consider whether governance is the sole constraint on progress. While effective governance is crucial, we need to ask if inefficiencies in project delivery are the only significant obstacles hindering growth. Factors such as persistent inflation, elevated interest rates affecting investment choices, global economic uncertainties, and structural issues within key sectors like agriculture and manufacturing also play vital roles. Furthermore, the timeline for restoring trust is critical. Secretary Balisacan emphasizes that achieving the 6 percent to 7 percent growth target hinges on addressing longstanding issues. Meanwhile, Secretary Recto stresses the need to regain consumer and business confidence through accountability. However, restoring trust is a gradual process rather than an instantaneous event. The crucial question remains: can demonstrable accountability and systematic cleanups translate into robust private sector investment and spending quickly enough to support such ambitious growth within a year?
Lastly, execution is paramount in any reform effort. While the government’s commitment to addressing issues is commendable, the real challenge lies in implementation. Can the government promptly identify and set aside “anomalous projects,” reallocate resources efficiently and ensure that new initiatives are launched without issues?
The Development Budget Coordination Committee’s upcoming review of macroeconomic assumptions is an opportunity for candor. Revising targets is not failure; refusing to align expectations with reality is. What matters now is whether the government can convert this moment of reckoning into genuine reform.
The path forward demands more than just cleaning house; it demands demonstrable, swift, and effective action that convinces Filipinos and investors alike that the system is truly changing. The government’s economic credibility hinges less on aspirational targets and more on its ability to deliver tangible results and transparent accountability. Let the revised targets be ambitious, yes, but firmly anchored in the practical realities of recovery and the demonstrable pace of reform. Only then can hope translate into genuine, sustainable momentum. The Philippines can still achieve the growth it seeks. But it must earn it— through competent governance, transparent budgeting, and institutions strong enough to prevent the very missteps it now vows to correct.
BusinessMirror
T. Anthony C. Cabangon Lourdes M. Fernandez
A. Ng
V. Vitug Lorenzo M. Lomibao Jr., Gerard S. Ramos Lyn B. Resurreccion, Dennis D. Estopace Angel R. Calso, Dionisio L. Pelayo Ruben M. Cruz Jr.
Eduardo A. Davad Nonilon G. Reyes D. Edgard A. Cabangon
to 36. E-mail: news.businessmirror@gmail.com www.businessmirror.com.ph
Protection of trademarks in the Philippines
TDennis Gorecho
Amicus Curiae
HE Intellectual Property Office (IPO) received 44,216 filings and granted 31,869 registrations in 2024 for trademarks. The data was presented by the Intellectual Property Associa tion of the Philippines (IPAP) during the 21st General Assembly and the 77th/78th Council meeting held from November 6 to 10, 2025 at the KLCC convention center in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
A trademark is a word, a group of words, sign, symbol, logo or a combination thereof that identifies and differentiates the source of the goods or services of one entity from those of others.
A trademark protects a business’ brand identity in the marketplace. Aside from being a source-identifier, differentiator, quality indicator, and an advertising device, a protective mark may also bring another stream of income to the owner through licensing or franchising.
IPAP representatives discussed the Philippine report, which include the increase in trademark filings and registrations in 2024 by 5 percent from 2023 (41,978 filings and 30,396 registrations).
Notable increases were also seen in resident-initiated filings (3 percent) and registrations (13 percent), and non-resident-initiated filings (8 percent). However, there was a decrease in non-resident-initiated registrations by 3 percent.
The disparities between resident
versus non-resident filings (60:40) and registrations (51:49) for 2024 also point to a moderately strong majority of trademarks belonging to residents.
The average timeframe from filing up to registration was shortened from 4.36 months in 2023 to 3.99 months in 2024.
A faster and more efficient rule related to the issuance of Certificates of Renewal of Registration was introduced through integration of prescribed renewal and publication fees upon the filing of the request for renewal of registration of a trademark. Further amendments were made to regulations regarding the Madrid Agreement and to the Rules and Regulations on Administrative Complaints for Violation of Laws Involving Intellectual Property Rights.
The period of protection is 10 years from the date of registration and is renewable for a period of 10 years at a time.
The reporters also discussed the case of Gloria Maris n Shark’s Fin Restaurant Inc. v. Pacifico Q. Lim (GR
The Supreme Court held that bad faith in the context of trademark registration means that the applicant or registrant has knowledge of prior creation, use and/ or registration by another of an identical or similar trademark.
264919-21, May 20 2024).
The Supreme Court held that bad faith in the context of trademark registration means that the applicant or registrant has knowledge of prior creation, use and/or registration by another of an identical or similar trademark. A trademark registered in bad faith may be cancelled on the ground of fraud, as there is no distinction between fraud and bad faith in terms of trademark.
The Supreme Court emphasized that when a party registers a trademark with prior knowledge of another party’s use of the same or a similar mark, such an act constitutes unfair competition and is considered a violation of intellectual property rights.
Incorporators and directors must act in utmost good faith when dealing with corporate assets, especially intangible ones like trademarks. Bad faith registration by insiders seeking to personally benefit from corporate goodwill will not be tolerated.
Established in December 1969, the APAA is a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting and enhancing intellectual property (IP) protection in the Asian region.
The association now has more than 2,500 members from 21 recognized groups in Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos,
Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam, as well as from Bhutan, Brunei, Laos and Mongolia. The term “intellectual property rights” consists of (a) copyright and related rights; (b) trademarks and service marks; (c) geographic indications; (d) industrial designs; (e) patents; (f) layout-designs (topographies) of integrate circuits; and (g) protection of undisclosed information. IP laws lay down the remedies available to the IP owner in case of a violation of his rights through administrative, civil and criminal sanctions against violators. The IP laws aim to protect and secure the exclusive rights of scientists, inventors, artists and other gifted citizens to their intellectual property and creations, particularly when beneficial to the people, for such periods as provided in the law. Atty. Pablo Gancayco is set to lead the APAA as the president-elect, the second Filipino to hold the highest position after Atty. Alonzo Ancheta from 2006 to 2009. IPAP was founded on March 31, 1977 with the aim of professionalizing the steadily growing practice of IP law in the Philippines. IPAP is the sole Philippine national group recognized by the APAA, the Asean Intellectual Property Association, and the Association Internationale pour la Protection dela Propriete Industrielle.
Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the Seafarers’ Division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan Law Offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez. com, or call 09175025808.
Charting Asia’s economic future amid global turbulence
MANILA became the gathering place for leading economists across East and Southeast Asia on November 8 and 9, 2025, as Ateneo de Manila University, together with the Philippine Economic Society, hosted the 20th East Asia Economic Association (EAEA) Conference at the Makati Shangri La Hotel. Nearly 450 partici pants—academics, policymakers, researchers, and development prac titioners—traveled from across the region, as well as from the United States and the United Kingdom, to join two days of high level dialogue.
T heir determination to participate was particularly remarkable: Typhoon Uwan swept across Luzon during the final day, yet the full program proceeded uninterrupted, and delegates remained engaged throughout. It was, in many ways, a fitting backdrop to our conference theme of resilience.
The theme, “Navigating Economic Transitions: Inclusion, Innovation, and Resilience in Asia,” captured the evolving landscape that East Asia now confronts. We are in a period of profound global uncertainty— marked by shifts in the geopolitical order, disruptive technological change, heightened vulnerability to
For the Philippines, hosting the EAEA for the second time since 2008 was a meaningful milestone. It allowed us to place the country at the center of regional policy dialogue and to strengthen our ties with colleagues working on the forefront of economic analysis across East Asia. It also highlighted the role of Filipino economists—across universities, government agencies, and think tanks—in contributing to regional debates.
climate shocks, and widening social divides. These transitions call for new thinking and stronger regional cooperation. This year’s EAEA gathering created an important space to examine how economies across Asia can respond to these challenges while sustaining broad-based and inclusive growth. The conference opened with
the Ichimura Lecture and Keynote Address by Professor Danny Quah and former Dean of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy of the National University of Singapore. In his lecture, “Inadvertent Cooperation and Pathfinder Multilateralism for a G-minus World,” he argued that even in a fragmented global system, cooperation remains possible—emerging not from sweeping agreements, but from practical, incremental alignments among countries that share common interests. His message resonated strongly with participants confronting the realities of trade tensions, global supply chain adjustments, and a weakening multilateral framework.
This was followed by the first plenary, “Promoting Macroeconomic Growth in a New World Order,” where distinguished economists Jong-Wha Lee, Jomo K. Sundaram, Aaditya Mattoo, and Arsenio Balisacan examined the See “Eagle Watch,” A15
EAGLE WATCH
Fernando T. Aldaba
Europe and the IndoPacific: Partners for a resilient future
By EU Ambassador Massimo Santoro
EUROPE and the Indo-Pacific find their futures increasingly interlinked in a world marked by geopolitical shifts, economic uncertainty, and intensifying strategic competition. Challenges ranging from growing pressure on the multilateral system intensified by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, unilateral attempts to undermine the rules based international order, including at sea, the weaponization of trade and technology, the accelerating climate crisis, are not dividing our regions. They bring us closer together. There is a greater need than ever for collective action to effectively address these common challenges.
When the European Union launched its Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific in September 2021, the world looked different. Four years on, the Strategy has become the backbone of a stronger, more engaged European presence in the region. The 4th EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum in Brussels on November 20-21 is focusing on our cooperation to support our joint stability, prosperity and sustainability, while upholding international law, open trade and shared values. Within the Forum, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, will convene a high-level event on the protection of critical maritime infrastructure. This underscores Europe’s commitment to working with Indo-Pacific partners to safeguard vital sea lanes and undersea networks that underpin global stability and connectivity.
The EU is stepping up its contribution to the security of the IndoPacific through new security partnerships and regular security dialogues, including on hybrid threats. Cooperation in naval activities such as Operation ASPIDES, contributing to the protection of freedom of navigation, especially for merchant and commercial vessels in the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Gulf, and Operation ATALANTA, deployedfor counter-piracy at sea off the Horn of Africa and in the Western Indian Ocean, as well as initiatives such as Critical Maritime Routes in the IndoPacific (CRIMARIO) aim to ensure freedom of navigation and promote maritime security from Europe to the Indo-Pacific through the Red Sea. Trade agreements with Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Vietnam, New Zealand, and Kenya have already deepened economic integration, while negotiations have concluded with Indonesia and are advancing with the Philippines, Australia, India, Thailand, among others.
The EU’s Global Gateway initiative is delivering sustainable, highquality infrastructure, working hand in hand with partners in the region and involving the private sector. This is the European Union’s strategy to boost smart, clean and secure connections in digital, energy and transport sectors, and to strengthen health, education and research systems across the world. In the Philippines, Global Gateway projects such as the EU-Philippines Digital Economy Package support the digital transition and technology innovation in crucial sectors: 5G, cybersecurity, artificial intel-
region’s growth prospects amid tightening financial conditions and overlapping shocks. Their insights underscored the importance of sound institutions, prudent macroeconomic management, and coordinated policy action. The second plenary, “Stabilization Policies and Economic Reforms Amid Global Uncertainties,” featured Benjamin Diokno, Albert Park, Hal Hill, and Denis Suarsana, who delved into the credibility of reforms, fiscal-monetary coordination, and strategies for managing external risks. Across the two days, the confer-
In search of the perfect morning
GIVE it to an old man—aging if you wish—to pine for the perfect breakfast.
I am in the far-off South as I speak and yesterday, I struggled with a set breakfast in this small hotel. The choice was the usual fried rice with sausage or corned beef, predictable fare until the steward began explaining the added spices, which when queried, presented with details that would pose a challenge to my morning frustration.
ligence (AI) in earth observation, research and digital connectivity. In addition, the Copernicus Philippines Programme established the first data center in Asia and provides services to increase the Philippines ability to address climate vulnerability, biodiversity conservation, and improve hazard management and resilience.
Together, we are promoting a model of growth that is environmentally sustainable, inclusive, and climate resilient. The EU also shares the Indo-Pacific’s ambition for a green and blue future. From supporting the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent to advancing Green Alliances with the Philippines, Japan, Kenya, Republic of Korea and 15 Pacific Island countries as well as Just Energy Transition Partnerships with Indonesia, South Africa and Vietnam. Europe stands with Indo-Pacific nations in their efforts to build climate resilience, protect biodiversity, and achieve net zero by 2050.
Europe’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific is not only about policies but also about people. Over 23,000 students and professionals have already benefited from EU-funded exchanges since 2021. The EU’s cultural, educational, and health partnerships and Erasmus+ mobility and research collaboration are building the foundations of lasting friendship and trust between our societies.
In an increasingly fragmented and polarized geopolitical environment, building and consolidating partnerships that reduce our common vulnerabilities and strengthen our mutual resilience are central pillars of the EU’s vision and engagement in the world.
The EU and its 27 Member States have recently reaffirmed that the EU’s strategic engagement in the Indo-Pacific aims to uphold the multilateral system and the rules-based international order with full respect for international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries remains the cornerstone of a future stable and peaceful world. Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine is a stark reminder of the fundamental importance of standing up for international law together. In an era of growing uncertainty, the EU and its Member States are reliable, long-term partners. The IndoPacific Ministerial Forum in Brussels this week will be an important opportunity to deepen our cooperation and work together to turn today’s challenges into opportunities for shared peace, resilience and prosperity.
ence featured over 70 parallel and semi-plenary sessions, offering a rich variety of research and policy discussions. The breadth of topics was intentionally wide: digital transformation, labor markets, value chains, poverty and inequality, education and skills, fiscal and monetary policy, industrial strategy, climate resilience, and demographic transitions. Sessions on automation, AI, and the future of work drew strong engagement, reflecting the region’s interest in how technology will shape the next phase of development. Meanwhile, sessions on trade, global value chains, and geopolitics highlighted both the risks and opportunities created by realignments in global economic power.
I am a bread guy. The most basic pan de sal makes me happy and when butter, salted and of good hotel variety, at least, presents itself, I am happy. Lately, I have realized the unsalted butter has yielded itself as common in most hotels. Uncertain as to where this fashion is coming from or if this is part of any sumptuary law, the unsalted butter has become one of my frustrations anywhere I go…until this very morning when I found out that there would be a morning when I would be facing down my plate of omelette, and contemplating how gross vegetables can become when one does not like the presentation at all. Then and there, I promised to look the next day for the best bakery. There should be at least a few meters outside my hotel. Or some pastry shops.
Ever the person with the positive view of things, I know myself. I have the ability to find, well, eternity in an hour. More or less. Already, I began this journey to the south with the most bureaucratic route, completing what my airline ticket tells me to do, which was to fly at six in the morn-
ing and wait it out in the airport for the next six hours for my next flight. This means meditat ing over cups of coffee and in between subsisting on porridge and sal ad and, after much digressing, giving in finally to the desire of my heart—a sip of Coke Zero.
The guilt not withstanding, I could hear my endocrinolo gist and cardiologist and my sister and all their fair warning but I am all keyed up for an adventure. I am much braver now, I tell myself, I should be having fun. I should be a bit laid back, bored even, in souciant, weary for the world, a little bit bohemian, altogether pretentious, oh but why not, throw caution to the four or even five winds.
ble for memories. I searched online and found old photos. There was one tucked somewhere, a quiet scene of Ticao Island. I quickly posted it. A cousin noticed it immediately and commented when I made the visit. I was candid. It’s an old photo. Something happens when we travel far—we begin to miss our islands, our birthplaces. We feel we are moving far from where we were born. We are almost afraid of not being able to return to our roots, to the beginning.
Here in this hotel, I was looking out into the hills and mountain ranges in the distance. Those are towns and villages. Those mounds hide gold and wealth. They are far and they do not have my memories, nor my
I file away my thoughts and scram-
Colombia backs idea of Maduro leaving power, avoiding jail
By Daniel Basteiro
COLOMBIA said it would favor a path for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to hand over power to a transition government tasked with organizing new elections—preferring the idea over the alternative of a more forceful US intervention in its neighbor’s affairs.
The transition proposal has been making the rounds in diplomatic circles in Washington, Caracas and beyond as a potential solution to the US standoff with Venezuela, while President Donald Trump amasses warships in the Caribbean. There’s no sign that Trump would be open to such an arrangement.
But Maduro might consent to the idea if guaranteed that he would be safe from persecution, Colombia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Rosa Villavicencio said Wednesday in an interview in Madrid.
“Maduro would be inclined to accept it,” Villavicencio said. “He could leave without necessarily ending up in prison, someone else could come in to lead that transition and allow for elections that are legitimate.”
Maduro hasn’t said anything in public that indicates he would consider the proposal. Villavicencio said her boss, Colombian President Gus-
The semi-plenaries on the second day added a practical policy focus. The Asian Development Bank discussed its 2025 Asian Development Policy Report on digital transformation; the World Bank presented insights from The Prosperity Blueprint on trade, skills, and fiscal policy; and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas hosted a session honoring The Mariano Legacy, tracing how sound macroeconomic institutions evolved in East Asia. Meanwhile, the Economic Research Institute for Asean and East Asia (ERIA) and Ateneo’s own scholars led discussions on Asean’s economic challenges and Asia’s creative and music economies—reminders that development is as cultural as it is
tavo Petro, hasn’t talked to Maduro directly, but that her team is in contact with Venezuela’s diplomats. Venezuela’s information ministry didn’t immediately reply to a request for comments. A White House official said later Wednesday that no US negotiations with Venezuela are currently occurring.
Dollar bonds from Venezuela and its state-oil company rose across the curve. Notes due in 2034 jumped 2 cents to 33 cents on the dollar, the highest in six years, according to indicative pricing data collected by Bloomberg.
Petro and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva have called for new Venezuelan elections after the 2024 vote was widely condemned as fraudulent. A safe exit plan for Maduro could now be “the healthiest option” but would require backing from the Venezuelan opposition, Villavicencio said.
structural.
The success of the conference was made possible through close collaboration with our international partners—the Asian Development Bank, World Bank Group, ERIA and the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, and—as well as our local sponsors including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Landbank, SEAMEO INNOTECH, GT Capital Holdings and First Metro Securities. Their support ensured that the conference proceeded smoothly despite the logistics challenges brought about by the weather.
For the Philippines, hosting the EAEA for the second time since 2008 was a meaningful milestone. It allowed us to place the country at the
hood. They are far away. We are far from them. Even if I close my eyes, I will have a hard time imagining the island of my birth. Something hides the enchantment of my remembering.
Colombia has warned that a US attack on Venezuela could trigger another exodus of migrants. About 8 million Venezuelans have fled their country over the last decade, and nearly three million of them live in Colombia, according to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
Officials in Colombia, a longtime US ally that shares a border with Venezuela, have until now spoken only broadly of avoiding conflict without offering specific solutions.
Earlier this week, Trump threatened to target suspected drug cartel targets on land in Venezuela, Colombia and Mexico. Since September, US forces have been blowing up alleged drug-running boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, killing more than 80 people.
Colombia has warned that a US attack on Venezuela could trigger another exodus of migrants.
About 8 million Venezuelans have fled their country over the last decade, and nearly three million of them live in Colombia, according to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
center of regional policy dialogue and to strengthen our ties with colleagues working on the forefront of economic analysis across East Asia.
It also highlighted the role of Filipino economists—across universities, government agencies, and think tanks—in contributing to regional debates.
There are new trees, new growth in front of the hotel. These are sad trees because there are no birds. The leaves are very sparse and no bird could hide from these thin leaves. The birds could be somewhere else. This must be the face of solitude, when one is not able to find the right moment for the ideal morning coffee. Nothing makes sense, not the bitterness in the cup. And so, we go through the ordeal of looking around for the right bread. We walk the extra mile, or at least a few meters. Indeed, I searched high and low for good coffee and in one of the stores, the store manager was solicitous enough to present me with cappuccino. Instant! She went out of her way to temper the instance with the right infusion of water, hoping not to dilute the already artificial version of what I think she was imagining my coffee to be. After the scent from the brew suffused us both, she offered their bread. I politely refused as I already saw the bakery next door. I went out with my instant Cappuccino, walked to the bakery and bought two pieces of bread. I sat down outside, contented at least, for that morning, as trucks lumbered to eternity past me, bearing all my sorrows and joys till the next mornings of my old life.
E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com
“An intervention could trigger a humanitarian crisis that would be very difficult to manage,” Villavicencio said.
Since August, the US has deployed warships and aircraft to the southern Caribbean, stoking fears of an attack on Venezuelan soil.
Bogota was until recently a strong ally of Washington, but relations have soured badly since the start of Trump’s second term. The US leader has called Petro a “lunatic” and an “illegal drug leader,” slashed aid and revoked his visa. Villavicencio said she would renounce her visa in solidarity with Petro.
The tension between Colombia and the US may make Petro’s government a poor interlocutor on Venezuela’s behalf, Sergio Guzman, director of Colombia Risk Analysis, said in a phone interview.
“The government’s support for a plan for Maduro’s negotiated exit is proof of the failure of all its foreign policy tools,” Guzman said. “Colombia lacks credibility both domestically and internationally to be a guarantor country for any transition process in Venezuela.” With assistance from Andreina Itriago, Oscar Medina, Maria Elena Vizcaino and Eric Martin/Bloomberg
One of the most striking aspects of EAEA20 was the commitment shown by all participants in the face of Typhoon Uwan. As strong rains lashed Metro Manila, the conference rooms remained full. Scholars continued to present, discuss, critique, and collaborate. For me as Chair of the Local Organizing Committee, this was a powerful reminder of the shared dedication within the region’s economic community. It also reflected the very resilience that our conference theme sought to underscore.
As we look ahead to the 21st EAEA Conference in Siem Reap, Cambodia, the ideas and partnerships forged in Manila will continue to shape the research and policy conversations that matter most for the region. The challenges facing East Asia are immense —but so too is the collective capacity of our community to learn, innovate, and build solutions together. In times of global uncertainty, this spirit of collaboration is perhaps the region’s most valuable resource.
Tito Genova Valiente ANNOTATIONS
November 21, 2025
BusinessMirror
Persist with truth despite forces of evil, Advincula tells mediamen
MANILAArchbishop
and CMMA Honorary
Chairman Jose Cardinal Advincula delivered a strong and timely message at the 47th Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) on Wednesday at the Citystate Tower Hotel, urging media practitioners to reclaim conscience, uphold truth, and communicate hope with courage and compassion.
ness the hope that is in your hearts,” may seem modest but carries a bold and challenging call. “It sounds simple and innocent at first glance,” he said. “But if you take a closer look, you will be surprised how strong and thought-provoking it is.”
sensiya naman kayo.’ Pakinggan naman natin ang maliit na tinig ng Diyos na nagsasabi, ‘Mali iyan. Hindi tama iyan. Ituwid natin yan.’” He did not hesitate to name wrongdoing plainly. “Would it be too much if we say ‘maitim ang budhi’ of people who have no mercy for others?”
Kindness is not weakness
THE Cardinal stressed that the call for gentleness should never be mistaken for weakness. “Yes, be kind and be gentle,” he said. “But kindness and gentleness do not mean lame or spineless.”
“In fact,” he continued, “to practice restraint and respect in the age of anger and vitriol will take so much effort for many of us. This is where Christian hope challenges us to stay focused and composed.”
“Let us not allow ourselves to be distracted by the noise and deceptions,” he advised.
Japan, Canada, EU affirm trust in PHL amid corruption mess
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
DESPITE recent corruption scandals in Philippine public works, envoys from Japan, Canada, and the European Union said investor confidence and free trade negotiations remain intact, citing strong monitoring mechanisms and visible government action against graft.
Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya said Tokyo’s infrastructure support—such as flood control projects along the Pasig River and flagship railway systems—remains unaffected.
‘Makonsensiya naman kayo’ REFLECTING on the First Letter of Peter (3:13–17), Cardinal Advincula said that communicating truth has never been easy. “Truth-telling, moral resistance, and countercultural behavior could cost you your reputation, your safety, even your life,” he said. “You will be maligned. You will be defamed and put to shame. But it is better to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.”
Terra Madre in Aspac makes PHL debut
By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Special to the BusinessMirror
ACOLOD CITY—The inau-
Bgural Terra Madre Asia & Pacific 2025 (TMAP) formally opened on Wednesday at the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol Lagoon, with a gathering of over 2,000 delegates not just from the region, but from other corners of the globe as well.
Hosted by the Philippines for the first time, TMAP is one of the world’s largest sustainable food gatherings attended by farmers, organic agriculture businesses, slow food enthusiasts and experts, and innovators from across Asia and the Pacific.
In an interview with the BusinessMirror, Slow Food International International General Director Paolo di Croce expressed satisfaction over the first regional gathering outside of Turin, Italy, where the movement’s main event, Terra Madre Salone del Gusto, is usually held every two years.
“After the first day, we are very happy. So I think that the potential and the opportunities that we have seen here in the past to decide to come here are confirmed. And so we see very bright and interesting opportunities for our future,” he said. The next TMAP will be in 2027. In the Philippines, where close to 20 million families are steeped in poverty, however, how does one persuade them to consume only slow food products, which are often more expensive than their usual meal of instant cup noodles and soda? Di Croce admitted this was a “complicated issue and it’s almost everywhere...And you know, what we always say is we want to advocate for good food for everyone... [But] we need the intervention of the government to help the good clean and fair producers and not the others [e.g. industrial food makers].”
He said organic farm producers in the country, for instance, have to pay costly amounts to be certified
by the government. Also, Di Croce said, awareness must be created to make Filipinos realize “that good food doesn’t necessarily come from abroad, like potato chips and Coca-Cola. We buy many things that are not sustainable. It’s cheap but it’s not good for the health. It [raises] the cost of health care.”
According to PhilHealth, which administers the national health insurance program, it paid out over P217.93 billion in total benefit claims to healthcare facilities nationwide in the first nine months to September this year, a 94.18-percent jump from the same period last year. Many of these claims include hypertension emergencies and chronic kidney diseases, a likely complication from long-term diabetes. Both are preventable with lifestyle and dietary changes. The five-day TMAP features an incredible array of slow food products from across the Philippines and Asia Pacific; cooking demonstrations by well-known chefs here and abroad; talks and presentations on agroecology, mushroom foraging, slow food travel, artisanal salt; food tastings; and discussions on the growing coffee culture in the region.
For her part, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco spoke of the goal of the regional gathering: “[We] are bound by a common mission: our love for the environment, our desire to have a more meaningful engagement and of course, the aspirations to ensure that our food systems can last for generations to come.”
She underscored how vital the gathering is in supporting local communities, empowering producers, and ensuring that tourism delivers tangible benefits while preserving food heritage.
“Through these efforts, we do more than celebrate cuisine; we create opportunities for communities to empower our local producers, and ensure
Cardinal Advincula encouraged Filipinos to revive their conscience or budhi, which he described as “our inner moral compass.”
Reject both ‘cowardly silence’ and ‘arrogant aggression’ CARDINAL Advincula reminded communicators that their mission requires balance, discernment, and courage.
“Japanese companies continue to see the Philippines as a growth market,” Endo noted, stressing that strict audits and third-party consultants safeguard Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects. Japan’s ODA has funded multiphase flood control initiatives, including the Pasig–Marikina River Channel Improvement Project and the Cavite Industrial Area Flood Risk Management Project, both designed to protect urban and industrial zones.
“Maybe it’s about time we stop saying, ‘Mahiya naman kayo,’” he said. “Maybe it’s about time we begin reminding everyone, ‘Makon-
“When St. Peter said that we must explain ourselves with gentleness and reverence, he wanted us to reject two extreme positions: cowardly silence and arrogant aggression,” he explained.
Addressing the attendees of this year’s CMMA, Cardinal Advincula said this year’s theme, “Share with gentle- See “Advincula,” A11
He added, “Your conscience must be clear. And you must be ready to render an explanation to the hope that you keep despite the corruption and filth that surround you.”
OMBUDSMAN SETS 6-9-MONTH WINDOW ON FLOOD CASE FILING
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
OMBUDSMAN Jesus Crispin C. Re-
mulla on Thursday said his office may be able to file a case against House Speaker Martin G. Romualdez within six to nine months, as the investigation into alleged flood-control anomalies continues.
Speaking at a forum on the flood-control scandal organized by the Office of the UP Law Dean, Remulla said the review has been ongoing for about 40 days and involves determining which specific legal violations may be supported by evidence.
He said he will not proceed unless the factual record is complete.
“I will never file a lousy case. I’m not that kind of person. I want things to be done properly. I want it to be documented. I want it to be solid,” Remulla explained. Remulla also disclosed that Romualdez called him once, with the lawmaker trying to explain that he “had no hand in many things.”
“He was trying to make a case, his case, that had nothing to do with anything. We just listened...We just follow the evidence,” Remulla recalled, adding that their past fraternity ties have no bearing on the investigation. The Ombudsman said that while evidence against the lawmaker has been “slow in coming,” initial findings point to flood-control allocations becoming a “political currency.”
He said the investigation now focuses on identifying the acts that may constitute culpability under existing laws.
Other possible angles, he said, cannot yet be disclosed.
How about PBBM?
MEANWHILE, in a chance interview, the Ombudsman said it remains premature to determine whether the investigation could also implicate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the alleged misuse of flood-control funds.
He said no evidence has so far pointed to
the President, but stressed that the “evidence will take you where it will take you.”
“We don’t know where it will lead us right now. The revelations are fresh and we’re checking on everything,” he added.
Asked whether investigators could realistically obtain evidence involving high-ranking officials, Remulla said the rules on evidence now allow the use of hearsay under the residual exception in conspiracy cases where direct proof is difficult to secure.
“Hearsay will have its value later on under the revised rules of evidence...It’s something that has to be tried in the future,” he said.
Last week, former House appropriations chairperson Elizaldy S. Co publicly claimed that the President ordered the inclusion of P100 billion in projects in the 2025 budget.
Co alleged that the supposed directive was relayed through former Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman and was later affirmed by officials within the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office.
In Davao, Japan supported the Flood Control and Drainage Master Plan and the Metro Davao Urban Development Master Plan, focusing on climate-resilient drainage systems and long-term urban flood management.
Unlike locally funded projects now under congressional probe, Japan’s role has centered on technical cooperation and planning integrity. All their ODA projects in the Philippines also undergo strict audit performance reviews—even after the aid has been completed—ensuring accountability and transparency.
Still, Endo admitted Tokyo is concerned about the Philippine government’s flood control investigation and subsequent cabinet reshuffle, saying these developments “can indirectly” affect ODA projects, particularly in decision-making and continuity.
“We’ve also been working with DPWH, and with a lot of reshuffles of personnel within the department, [this] can indirectly be influencing,” he told reporters at the Stratbase forum in Makati on Thursday. (See related: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2025/10/09/japan-closely-monitoring-phl-anti-corruption-probe/)
Canada
CANADIAN Ambassador David Hartman acknowledged corruption challenges but highlighted President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “successful foreign policy” in strengthening partnerships.
He said Canada channels aid through NGOs and civil society groups rather than directly to the Philippine government, ensuring rigorous due diligence.
“Our embassy in Manila has expanded rapidly as part of Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy,” Hartman said, adding that FTA talks remain unaffected.
Hartman stressed vigilance: “Frankly, we’re watching how things unfold here. We remain very much seized to the matter. We have discussions with our business community and provide advice to local stakeholders about the investment climate.” He emphasized trust and transparency in partnerships: “You have to have a good sense of who your prospective partners are. You have to understand the facilitative framework and the environment in which they operate.”
Despite concerns, Hartman underscored Canada’s optimism: “We continue to encourage opportunities in this country...because the scale and scope of opportunity that exists in areas tremendously complementary between Canada and the Philippines are very robust.” He added, “We’re ramping up our conversations around free trade
AKBAYAN Partylist Chel Diokno speaks at the University of the Philippines Law Colloquium on Public Accountability on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at UP BGC Auditorium in Taguig City. NONOY LACZA
CARDINAL ADVINCULA TV MARIA
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
‘Rule tweaks to expand REITs’
By VG Cabuag @villygc
THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is proposing key amendments to the rules governing real estate investment trusts (REITs), including broadening the list of income-generating real estate assets that may comprise a portfolio.
The SEC released for public comment the proposed amendments to SEC Memorandum Circular 1, Series of 2020, or the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 9856 or the Real Estate Investment Trust Act of 2009. The draft amendments also seek to provide flexibility for the REIT sponsor in reinvesting proceeds from the listing of the REIT and relax the minimum public ownership requirement, among others.
“The proposed reforms will help ensure that the REIT framework remains robust and responsive to
evolving market needs, thereby enabling the real estate sector to unlock more capital that will further support their growth and to contribute more to the development of our economy,” SEC Chairman Francis E. Lim said.
The proposed amendments expand the definition of income-generating real estate assets by allowing a REIT to directly or indirectly own income-generating real estate through a shareholding in an unlisted special purpose vehicle wholly owned by the REIT and duly constituted to primarily hold or own real estate.
The SEC is also proposing to include within the definition of income-generating real estate those real properties with regular streams of income, or those with recurring and predictable cash inflows derived from the lease of, or other similar arrangements involving such properties.
These may include rental properties from transportation, information and communications technology, and energy infrastructure assets; parking lots; buildings; malls; warehouses or storage facilities; immovable fixtures, machineries, facilities, and structures; and real rights over properties, which include usufruct, easements, registered leases.
More companies may be classified as REITs under the amended rules— effectively expanding the scope of real properties that may comprise a REIT’s portfolio.
Meanwhile, the draft circular extends the period for the utilization of reinvestment proceeds to two years, from the previous standard of one year from the date of receipt of the proceeds.
Reinvestment in the Philippines
may take the form of investment in equity, the extension of loans or purchase of debt instruments or the repayment of loans or debt instruments in relation to any real estate or infrastructure project—both government and privately initiated—in the Philippines.
The SEC is further relaxing the compliance with the minimum public ownership (MPO) requirement for REITs, allowing for a temporary dip in instances when there is an issuance of additional shares to its sponsor/promoter or the latter’s affiliates in exchange for incomegenerating real estate or real rights over immovable property, subject to certain conditions.
The temporary dip in public float may be allowed when the transaction has been approved by the SEC and the Philippine Stock Exchange, when it submits a plan and timetable to the commission on how the MPO requirement will be restored; and when the REIT publicly discloses the temporary breach and the remedial plan in its structured reports and on its website.
The SEC is accepting comments until December 3.
Megawide raises ₧3B from sale of shares
MThe offer was 2.3 times oversubscribed from the base, the company said. “The listing of our oversubscribed series 7 Preferred Shares is a powerful vote of confidence and empowers us to pursue high-impact projects—projects that are real, deliverable, high quality, and capable of uplifting communities and our Philippine economy,” Edgar Saavedra,
chairman and CEO of Megawide, said during the ceremony. VG Cabuag
BCDA: Investments nearly double to ₧64B in Jan-Nov
STATE-RUN firm Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said the investments it approved nearly doubled to P64 billion in January to November from last year’s P32.06 billion.
BCDA said these investments are expected to generate approximately 8,476 jobs, marking a 29.11 percent increase compared to the previous year.
The state-run firm said this growth is “concentrated” across BCDA-managed economic zones, particularly in New Clark City in Tarlac and Camp John Hay in Baguio, where investor activity has “significantly” ramped up in recent months.
Major investors and partners that signed contracts with BCDA this year are: Eagle-K GC Corp.; Eagle-K RV Corp.; the consortium of Global Heavy Equipment & Construction Corp., ATD Waste-to-Energy Corp., and Uttamenergy Ltd.; Science Park of the Philippines Inc.; Sta. Clara International–Saekyung Realty; and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas for developments in New Clark City; as well as Istana Development Corp. and Meridian Commercial Centers, Inc.; Ayala Land, Inc.; Stern Real Estate; Top Taste and Trading Inc.; Amare La Cuci -
na; and Prime Collective Corp. for developments in Camp John Hay.
BCDA said these key investments, backed by both local and international partners, serve as a “clear testament” to strong business confidence in the nation’s economic fundamentals and attractiveness as a premier investment hub.
The momentum, the state-run firm said, is sustained by the national government’s “proactive” support, which includes prioritizing vital infrastructure projects within BCDA zones and maintaining a stable, pro-development policy environmental crucial for long-term capital infusion.
BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said the “robust” performance shows the growing investor confidence in BCDA’s master-planned developments, as well as the success of the government’s economic policies.
“This achievement underscores BCDA’s vision to be the catalyst for a future where strategic infrastructure development translates into sustainable, investment-led growth, simultaneously creating the platform for more and better job opportunities for all Filipinos,” Bingcang said in a statement. Andrea E. San Juan
Exchange last Thursday.
EGAWIDE Construction Corp. has raised some P3 billion from its series 7 preferred shares offering, which was listed on the Philippine Stock
Manulife, SSS deal to sell
By VG Cabuag @villygc
THE Social Security
System,
the state-owned pension fund for private workers, and the Manufacturers Life Insurance Co. (Phils.) Inc., announced last Thursday the expansion of a partnership to provide group credit life insurance coverage.
The company, the local arm of international financial services provider Manulife Financial Corp., said the product will be available to pensioners who availed of the SSS’s pension loan program. Previously, the coverage were available only to 2 million retirement pensioners across the country.
The expanded coverage now also includes approximately 1.2 million surviving spouse pensioners, ensuring that their financial obligations of loan borrowers are protected through comprehensive credit life insurance.
This milestone marks a significant step toward strengthening financial resilience for Filipino families, the company said
“This partnership represents our shared commitment to protect and empower our clients, especially those who rely on financial assistance to make their dreams happen, secure their families’ future, or rebuild their lives after a calamity,” SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph M. de Claro said.
“Through this agreement, we help ensure that our borrowers are not left
vulnerable in times of unexpected loss, illness, or tragedy,” he said.
“Expanding this partnership reflects our dedication to helping build a more inclusive financial landscape where Filipino families can access the protection they need,” Rahul Hora, president and CEO of Manulife Philippines, said.
“With this initiative, we reinforce our goal of enabling more Filipinos achieve greater financial security, especially during times when support is needed most,” he said.
The enhanced program builds on the implementation of the SSS Pension Loan Program, announced on Labor Day this year, which provided accessible, low-interest loans to pensioners.
Manulife’s group credit life insurance covers outstanding loan obligations in the event of the borrower’s passing, relieving families of financial burden during difficult times.
The insurance now extends to surviving spouse pensioners, ensuring broader protection across the pensioner base.
The insurance is embedded within the pension loan process, with no additional steps required from members to access coverage.
Since the original five-year group credit life insurance contract began in August 2022, Manulife has leveraged its insurance expertise to support government initiatives that promote financial security for Filipino families, advancing its nationbuilding efforts.
First things first: Guiding principle for associations
MY first job after graduating from college with a mechanical engineering degree and passing the government licensure exam was as a process engineer in an air conditioner and refrigerator manufacturing plant. Basically, process engineering focuses on designing, optimizing, and implementing systems for transforming raw materials into finished products. It is in this job where I learned the principle “first things first.”
The phrase, popularized by Stephen Covey in “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” means focusing on the most important tasks before anything else. It is about distinguishing between the urgent and the truly important, ensuring long-term goals and core priorities are not overshadowed by day-to-day distractions.
For associations, “first things first” is a call to prioritize initiatives that directly align with mission and member needs. It is the discipline to ask: “Does this activity advance our purpose?”, and “Does it create the greatest value for our members?” By doing so, associations can invest their limited time, energy, and resources where they matter most.
Why prioritization is essential ASSOCIATIONS often feel the pull of multiple demands, from delivering member services and organizing events, to advocating for industry issues and addressing emerging trends. Without clear prioritization, leaders risk attempting to do everything at once, resulting in diluted impact and overextended staff. By embracing “first things first,” association professionals: n Stay mission-focused. They concentrate on activities that strengthen the association’s core purpose, rather than chasing every new idea.
n Maximize resources. Time, budget, and people are finite; prioritization ensures these are applied to initiatives with the highest return.
n Build credibility. Members trust organizations that deliver consistently on key commitments, not those that overpromise and under deliver.
Here’s how prioritization directly benefits members, the ultimate stakeholders of an association: n Enhanced value delivery. Instead of offering many average-
₧38.211M raised by Customs from sale of Discaya vehicles
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) generated a total of P38.211 million in revenues from auctioning off the luxury vehicles owned by contractors Cezarah and Pacifico Discaya.
The BOC sold in a public auction last Thursday three of the seven luxury vehicles seized from the Discayas in its bid to reclaim lost revenues from tax and duty leaks.
“What’s more important here than the money or funds we can get is the symbolism and the principle
THE Ayala-led Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is extending P47.07 billion to Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. (Prime Infra) of the Razon Group to acquire a stake in First Gen Corporation’s (FGEN) natural gas–fired power plants and liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Batangas.
quality programs, associations can provide fewer but high-impact initiatives such as a flagship conference, a specialized training program or a strong advocacy campaign.
n Stronger representation. When resources are channeled into advocacy on critical policy issues, members see tangible results that affect their profession or industry.
n Sustainable growth. By focusing first on foundational areas like membership engagement and financial stability, associations can ensure continuity and expanded services in the long term.
Consider a professional society that identifies advocacy for fair regulations as its top priority. By directing its resources toward building coalitions, commissioning research, and lobbying policymakers, it achieves regulatory changes that directly benefit its members. Or think of a trade association that puts professional certification first before expanding into events and publications, and in doing so, establishes credibility, revenue stability, and member loyalty.
“First things first” is more than a productivity tip—it is a leadership mindset. For association boards and executives, it means resisting the temptation to do everything at once, and instead clarifying what matters most. It requires courage to say “no” to certain opportunities in order to say a stronger “yes” to those that truly align with mission and member value.
In the end, prioritization is not about limiting ambition. It is about sequencing it. When associations put first things first, they lay a strong foundation for all other initiatives to succeed. The result: greater impact, stronger member trust, and long-term sustainability.
Octavio Peralta is founder and volunteer CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives, the “association of associations.” The views he expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror . E-mail: bobby@ pcaae.org.
A statement issued by the lender last Thursday read that the loan will fund Prime Infra’s acquisition of a 60 percent stake in the gas-fired power portfolio and LNG terminal in Batangas of First Gen Corp. (FGEN).
The transaction forms part of a broader deal valued at around P50 billion, covering Prime Infra’s entry into some of the country’s most critical gas assets (See: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2025/11/18/prime-infrafirst-gen-reach-financial-close-forgas-deal/).
The Philippine Competition Commission cleared the deal in October 2025, allowing Prime Infra to move forward with the acquisition.
FGEN will retain the remaining 40 percent share in the assets, which include more than 2,000 megawatts of gas-fired generation capacity and one of the country’s main LNG import terminals.
BPI said Prime Infra’s acquisition further contributes to the country’s transition to more dependable energy sources.
“By financing the acquisition, BPI
that if you commit a wrongdoing, you will be held accountable, and that the country’s money should benefit our fellow citizens,” Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said.
Simplex Industrial Corp. won the 2019 Mercedes-Benz G500 Brabus
Prime Infra
helps enable power supply stability as the country transitions to its long-term goal of increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix,” the lender said.
BPI Institutional Banking Head Louie Cruz said the bank’s participation reflects its support for projects that enhance the country’s energy security.
“We value leveraging our expertise in structuring complex, large-scale financing facilities that enable industry players to deliver viable and reliable energy solutions for the nation,” Cruz said.
“The transaction is a milestone in securing the country’s energy future,” said Prime Infra President and Chief Executive Officer Guillaume Lucci.
“With reliable LNG infrastructure and efficient gas-fired facilities, the Philippines can better manage the volatility of energy supply by providing power during the transition towards more renewable energy sources for the grid,” Lucci added.
Prime Infra is the infrastructure arm of the Razon Group, investing in, developing, and operating critical assets in essential sectors such as sustainable energy, water, and waste management.
FGEN is the listed power generation company of the Lopez Group, and operates the country’s largest portfolio of renewable energy, which includes geothermal, hydro, wind and solar power.
Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
for P15.5 million, well above the floor price of P7.843 million, and the 2022 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG for P15.611 million, exceeding its floor price of P14.104 million.
Meanwhile, Lesentrell Jewelries was awarded the Lincoln Navigator for P7.1 million, slightly above the floor price of P7.038 million.
The unsold four luxury vehicles will be up for auction again. The floor price will be recomputed for the next bidding. These vehicles include the Toyota Tundra (2022), Toyota Sequoia (2023), Rolls-Royce Cullinan (2023) and Bentley Bentayga (2022).
The seven luxury vehicles owned by the Discayas were forfeited by the BOC Port of Manila on October 24, 2025, due to fraudulent Certificates of Payment (CPs) and the lack of import entry documents.
The BOC seeks to raise a total of P103.595 million from the sale of the seven cars, based on its notice of public auction. “We commend the DOF, with Secretary Go and the Bureau of Customs, for this free and open bidding that exhibits transparency and lawful trade,” Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) Chairman Andres B. Reyes Jr. said.
The ICI was created by the President to investigate alleged corruption, irregularities, and misuse of public funds, was instrumental in identifying assets of individuals linked to the flood-control issue. Land Transportation Office Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao and representatives from the Commission on Audit (COA) also took part in the event.
THE First Digital Finance Corp. (FDFC), operator of the “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) platform Billease, seeks to expand its loan book to about P15 billion next year, following by its recent acquisition of Rural Bank of Santa Maria-Ilocos Sur (RBSM).
In a news briefing last Thursday, Billease CEO and Co-founder Georg Steiger said the firm’s loan book could reach P15 billion this year and P20 billion in 2026
This comes after FDFC acquired the 56-year-old RBSM to shift from a consumer finance app into a comprehensive digitalcentric banking app by the third quarter of 2026
Billease will be combining its technology with a regulated banking license to also support the customers’ everyday transactions, and soon, their savings and deposits.
“As part of the ecosystem, we expect the bank to allow us to extend deposits, payments, basically banking products for customers, which we find very exciting,” Steiger said.
“We still have to capitalize the bank, put the proper systems in place, put the proper governance
EBy Erwin James T. Gianan | Intern
PONYMOUS delivery platform operator Lalamove Philippines Inc. launched last Wednesday a new feature in its business: insurance.
Filipinos could enjoy more secure transportation of packages with the announcement of an insurance program by delivery platform Lalamove.
Lalamove Managing Director Djon Paolo Nacario said during the launch that the “automatic insurance coverage applied to every Lalamove booking.” The program, which the company calls “Goods Insurance,” allows consumers to insure their parcels for up to 20,000.
Nacario said he expects the program would ensure “trust by giving users built-in coverage” through Pioneer Insurance and Surety Corp.
The policy covers accidental damage, loss during transit, and robbery that is reported within 72 hours
of pickup, according to Nacario. The policy was the result of a partnership between Lalamove, Pioneer Insurance, and KRM Reinsurance
in place.. We’re proud that we’re basically helping an existing institution to transform to the current needs of the market,” he added. FDFC has also appointed Dennis O. Valdes as president and CEO of RBSM.
“We are now in the process of completely transforming our core systems to get ready for digital-centric banking, with plans to launch our new suite of banking products next year,” Valdes said.
Meanwhile, FDFC is also preparing to support Google Pay to allow users to tap-to-pay securely using their Android devices nationwide.
“Our vision is to support our customers through every financial moment—whether it’s a major purchase or a simple daily transaction,” Kurt Molina, FDFC’s head of point of sale products, said.
FDFC launched BillEase in 2017. The company said the platform has over 10 million customers and disbursed over P100 billion in loans. The lender is backed by global investors, including TPG’s The Rise Fund and BurdaPrincipal Investments. Reine Juvierre S. Alberto
Brokers Phils. Inc., a Philippine-based advisory firm.
“By combining Lalamove’s speed with Pioneer Insurance’s dependability, we’re creating solutions that simplify claims and improve every customer experience,” Pioneer Insurance Underwriting and Claims Head Armand M. Pesigan said.
According to Lalamove, its “Goods Insurance” prorgam is part of the company’s broader safety efforts, which include facial log-ins for their partner-drivers and Padala101, their education initiatives that teach safe and responsible use of the platform through mantras like “No Match, No Give.”
“This isn’t a one-off campaign; every update, whether in safety, speed, or protection, comes down to one goal: helping Filipinos move what matters with confidence,” Pesigan added.
According to Lalamove, the insurance has since applied to all deliveries made through their app since November 7, with no additional steps required.
Bond traders brace for jobs report as rate-cut bets crumble
OND investors are zeroing in on Thursday’s US labor market report, which is expected to either kill
Octavio Peralta
A ssociation World
Why RHR’s Barun Jolly is bullish on PHL tourism
IF you ever get the chance to talk to Barun Jolly, general manager of Robinsons Hotels & Resorts (RHR), take your time and engage—he will make you think that everything is alright in the tourism business in the country.
“I’m very, very optimistic about the Philippines,” the 26-year industry veteran tells me over a sumptuous lunch recently at the Cantabria, the Spanish restaurant of The Westin Manila, and which was recently named to the Michelin Guide Philippines 2026 Select list. (The Westin Manila is a premier hotel of RHR, a unit of Robinsons Land Corp. With Alexander Dietzsch at its helm, the hotel is now a hive of leisure travelers and business executives, as well as discriminating diners.)
As he savors his favorite Gambas al Ajillo (“Tell me, it’s the best you’ve tasted anywhere!”), Jolly cites government’s recent implementation of the visa-free entry for Indian nationals, and the rollout of the electronic visa scheme for mainland Chinese among the reasons for his confidence in the industry.
“These [policies] have been a long time coming and will surely raise tourist numbers,” he says. The Philippines has yet to recover its prepandemic arrivals of 8.3 million and the Department of Tourism (DOT) has revised its inbound tourists target to just 6.7 million in 2026, following its missed 7.7-million arrivals goal in 2024.
In between forkfuls of a savory Duck and Mushroom Paella, Jolly also updates me on the ongoing projects of RHR. In the next four years alone, RHR is opening four more hotels and resorts in various destinations all over the country, making sure it is already well-positioned for the country’s much anticipated grand tourism recovery.
“By the fourth quarter of next year (2026), we will open in Siargao (Summit Villas Siargao). Fili Hotel in Bridgetowne will open in the first quarter of 2027. And we will have Grand Summit in Pangasinan
sometime 2028,” he continues. He also mentions a Grand Summit rising on Panglao Island in Bohol, with “approximately 200 keys, and should open by 2029.”
I wonder why Pangasinan—of all places? Jolly explains, “There’s a lot going there. There is fishing, it’s known for having the best bangus (milkfish). So there’s trading and business travel.”
The province is known for being a major agriculture economy; aside from bangus, it produces bagoong (fish or shrimp paste), mangoes, and delicacies like bucayo (coconut caramel) and Puto Calasiao, to name a few. The province also has stretches of white-sand and grey-sand beaches that are go-to destinations for locals especially during the summer.
As such, he says, the 100-room, seven-story hotel will surely attract both leisure and business travelers, who will also have access to the amenities provided by the growing Robinsons Place Pangasinan complex in Calasiao.
While Fili Bridgetowne does appear quite distant from the country’s main international gateway, the hotel will actually serve visitors who arrive via Clark International Airport in Pampanga, says Jolly.
“Bridgetowne is its own self-contained community,” he explains, with hotel guests having access to Opus Mall and its wide array of dining options and merchants, as well as other amenities within RLC’s first township project. “If they wish, they can also explore BGC (Bonifacio Global City), which is very acccessible” due to the township’s strategic location straddling both Quezon City and Pasig.
In the case of Summit Villas Siargao, the 19-villa resort is actually being developed by Hira Holdings Inc. through Mega Mykon Builders, with RHR serving as management. It is the Gokongwei-led hospitality company’s first entry into one of the country’s fastest-growing tourist destinations. According to the DOT, there were 112,510 tourists on Siargao in the first quarter of 2025 alone—and, yes, notwithstanding the rumored P30,000 per person air fare from Manila.
Jolly says each villa will have private amenities and eco-conscious features, with the companies’ commitment to sustainability as a guiding principle. “Summit Villas Siargao is more than just a new property—it’s a celebration of the island’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rapidly growing tourism appeal,” he adds. The resort’s opening will be timely as the goverment completes the facelift of the Siargao Airport,
which will expand the passenger terminal’s capacity to some 750 passengers from the current 200.
Announced by then Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon in August, the project will also increase the check-in counters to nine from the current three.
I wonder if it is wise, however, for RHR to open a beachfront resort on Panglao, amid ongoing concerns by several quarters about the island’s poor sewerage management by what else but the local government. While many resorts have their own sewerage treatment plants, most of the island’s households and small businesses are discharging their effluents straight to the waters of Alona Beach.
What I say gives Jolly pause, but he expresses hope that these water quality issues with Alona Beach are a thing of the past. He says, “We are excited to welcome guests to Grand Summit Bohol to support the booming tourism sector’s call for a quality upscale hotel brand.”
With a P10 billion war chest, RHR is undoubtedly among the most significant tourism players in the country. Jolly says this amount will enable RHR to “scale up our presence across the Philippines to 37 properties with over 6,400 room keys” by 2030. These properties will be in 23 locations—a number of them in destinations attracting vibrant tourist crowds, while others are in key hubs of trade and commerce.
He adds that RHR is “always open to strategic partnerships depending on scale and market dynamics,” this after I ask if they will forge more ties with foreign hospitality chains. “We build and operate hotel brands based on what will drive maximum returns and provide unique proposition to our guests.”
RHR currently has management contracts with Marriott International for The Westin Manila, Dusit International for Dusit Thani Mactan, and the IHG Group for Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Holiday Inn Manila Galleria.
In expanding RHR’s footprint apart from those properties already announced, Jolly says, “We are exploring several upcoming beach locations and several class one and highly urban cities to bring our unique Grand Summit brand of Filipino hospitality entrenched in regional culture and landscapes. These hotels will offer branded international level of hospitality to locations, which are currently underserved.”
So I guess it’s not just the Hot Chocolate Souffle driving that extra pep in Jolly’s step these days.
touch of genius, imagination and a little class will help you outshine any competition you encounter. Your persistence and patience can help you digest and adjust to whatever comes your way. It’s a day to shine, bring about change and engage in what brings you the most satisfaction and highest return. HH g LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Share your feelings, thoughts and considerations with people who can broaden your awareness or connect you to those who can contribute to your plans, but don’t expect others to jump in and do the work for you. Put your desires to the test, and be willing to do the legwork if you want to reap the rewards. HHHH
h SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Get out and meet and greet. Social events will broaden your outlook and help you connect with upward and mobile individuals who spark your imagination and get you up and moving in a direction you find exciting. Stop sitting back when you have so much to offer and plenty to gain by getting into the game. HHH
i
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You are right on target, but you may want to go undercover to ensure you block anyone looking to interfere with your progress. Stay on top of your budget, stick to the rules and set a routine that contributes to a healthy lifestyle. HHH
j CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Be observant; check out what different groups are doing, and consider if you want to move forward in a pack or by yourself. How you proceed will depend on the type of impact you want to have and how much time and effort you want to contribute. HHH
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You’ll face opposition and interference. Take this as a sign to rethink your current position and where you see yourself heading. You may not like all the answers your research uncovers, but it will help you identify what you don’t need. It’s time to let go of what’s no longer working for you and move on. HHHH
l PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Use your intelligence and your ability to follow through to pursue your dreams. Monitor every move; set a budget, time and place to launch your plans. Network, travel, attend trade shows, tune in to your interests and
Frankenstein’s lonely, lovely monster within
AT the end of creation, we know there will be sadness. This was the secret of Genesis and it took a retelling of the tale of the monster for us to learn once more the once and forever cautionary tale of our own existence. It is Guillermo del Toro’s turn to narrate first the story from the perspective of Victor and second from the “Creature” himself. The “It” as defined by Victor. But before everything else, there is that journey to the farthest recesses of the cold north where a ship of hardy sailors have run aground, their mighty ship caught in the grips of the ice. Here we are introduced to a huge beast of a man who could not die. In the narrative of Del Toro, the monster is no more introduced as it is presented—a hulking, invincible being, a product of an era where patriarchs rule. In this household, there is a son who is doted on by a mother who is helpless before her own husband, a tyrant father to his own son.There is a magnificent scene at the beginning when the father arrives and—even with no proper introduction—we feel the household tremble at the presence of this figure. In a glorious mise-en-scene, the mother, her face covered in red shroud, stands over the son as both of them stand in attention for the arrival of the head of the family.
The mother dies early on, the loss the first grievous sorrow felt by the son who loses the only love he has ever
HITTING THE JACKPOT
THE actress has had bad luck with her former boyfriends and their families but this time, she may have hit the jackpot (in her eyes, at least). The buzz is strong that the actress’ new love is a well-connected politician who just came out of a long- term relationship. People are suspicious because the young actress is suddenly wearing expensive jewelry and watches, and catching luxury bags. Definitely, the actress is not poor. She had been working since she was a child and has money of her own. However, the things she has been wearing lately are definitely out of her price range. The politician is known for being generous to his girlfriends but he is also known for taking back the most expensive products he had given his exes and that’s a red flag.
TRAUMATIZED
SO the actress had some surgery on her face which didn’t turn out nice. She became the object of jokes and memes. So she quietly underwent another surgery to fix whatever had been botched. During a recent big event of her network, the actress was noticeably absent. According to the grapevine, the actress purposely did not go because she feared being the butt of jokes again. She just wants to work quietly and hopes that in time, this too will pass. The actress is one of the nicest in this business. She works hard to improve her craft and is generally well- liked by people in the industry. It’s too bad that she is being defined by her appearance.
JUST FRIENDS
THE guy is the other half of a popular showbiz loveteam. He and his onscreen partner look good together and they get along. However, it seems that the guy’s partner likes him more than he likes her. Insiders said that if you probe into the guy’s past, you’ll see that one of his exes is also a man and that isn’t shocking really in these days. But for fans of the loveteam, that could be devastating, considering how seriously people look at their favorite loveteams in this country. The (unanswered) questions are: Does the girl know that her onscreen partner once dated a guy? Do they have an agreement that they live separate lives off-camera? Does he like her or is she his ticket to success?
BITTER RIVALS
THE tension between the two starlets is palpable, as seen during a recent network event. Starlet 1 has a permanent smile on her face whenever Starlet 2 is around and this smile does not falter. Meanwhile, Starlet 2 is her usual bubbly self. She will talk to her rival if she has to but they can’t be friends. Meanwhile, Starlet 1 is the fiercer competitor simply because she hates losing. She has nothing personal against Starlet 2. She just does not like the other girl and would rather keep her at arms’ length. For Starlet 2, who is known to be kind and sweet, this rivalry and feud is just all in a day’s work. She does not wish the other girl any ill and hopes that one day, things will be better between them.
felt. This marks the tragic fate of Victor Frankenstein who, for all the genius of his father, believes the latter was helpless in saving his mother. He vowed to do better than his father; he promised to conquer death.
Mary Shelley’s landscape is inhabited by familiar characters once more as we encounter them again in this re-imagining of the story of Victor Frankenstein. Elizabeth, for example, is here as the object of desire for Victor Frankenstein even as she remains the fiancee of William, the younger brother of Victor.
Elizabeth happens to be the niece also of Harlander, the arms merchant who funds the project of Victor to create a “creature” out of mangled corpses, mostly sourced from the casualties of the ongoing Crimean War. In what Victor sees as a twist of fate, he sees Elizabeth’s fondness for insects and science as making them kindred, a small step to understanding the kind of quest Victor is into. And yet, Elizabeth refuses a relationship with Victor, confessing later to what she has admitted, that she has made the choice and it was William. William it was who made possible the building of the superstructure that would eventually help in reconstructing the monster. And here is that imposing castle
and the cruciform on which the new Adam was formed by Victor Frankenstein. And when the night of the appropriate thunderstorm arrived, we are satisfied with the archetypal knowledge that a new man will indeed be formed. We know the story—the creator is disheartened because the machine malfunctions and Frankenstein is frustrated, but he wakes up from the baddest sleep and there looking down at him is his Being.
At the core of Guillermo del Toro’s deconstruction of the monster is what we already existentially know—the loneliness of man and universe. First, God creates man and then God realizes there is no meaning in what he has done outside of himself. It is to the credit of this Frankenstein that even when the monster peers through his divine—because they are fearful—sockets of vision, we see humanity in all its aloneness and beauty.
At the core of this monster is an actor—the tall, gangly, majestic Jacob Elordi, who, defying the tradition of all Hollywood monsters, ceases to be an afterthought but a central figure in a dramatic discourse. In Elordi we find a questioning soul, an element worthy of the existential puzzle. When at last the monster encounters the blind old man and, in
GMA Network Chairman Atty. Felipe L. Gozon honored with Lifetime Achievement Award by KASAMA
GMA Network Chairman Atty. Felipe L. Gozon was conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Katiwasayan Para sa Mamamayan (KASAMA Inc.), in cooperation with the Malabon City Government, in recognition of his distinguished and extraordinary achievements in the advancement of socioeconomic development service.
A visionary leader with an unwavering dedication to excellence, Atty. Gozon has guided GMA Network through a period of remarkable growth, solidifying its status as the country’s leading TV network and home to the most trusted broadcast news organization in the country.
In his speech, Gozon described the recognition by KASAMA as “isang malaking karangalan,” before adding heartfelt reflections on his years growing up in Malabon. “I’m proud that I studied at Malabon Elementary School during my primary years… I also learned to swim in the Malabon River when it
was still clean and spent my formative years here,” he said.
“Malabon was a small town where most people knew each other. Life was much simpler and peaceful compared to now. Although I now reside outside Malabon, my heart and thoughts remain here.”
Prior to his career in media, Atty. Gozon had an extensive list of professional achievements and distinctions. His early success included finishing in the Top 10 of the University of the Philippines Law Class of 1962 and placing 13th in the bar examinations that same year. He then pursued his Master of Laws at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
In 2005, Atty. Gozon received the “Dangal ng Malabon” award, also conferred by KASAMA, in recognition of his exemplary achievements in legal and business management, particularly in the entertainment industry.
Proud of his Malabon roots, he has often shared stories
the process, allows him to be human, we are able to believe him at all. For the monster is no more a monster than the beginning of the evolution of man, or the possibilities available in the human race, or anything that resembles sentient beings.
Completing the human equation is the imperfect scientist, Victor Frankenstein. As the man expelled by the college of surgeons for toying with the human bodies, Oscar Isaac as Frankenstein is a madman and poet lost in the rhapsody of his own genius and wallowing in a sea of torsos and human organs. Somewhere out there, we sense Del Toro himself trying to make sense of the deaths around him, wondering if he were making a film about life or about the lack of it. Whatever it is, Frankenstein reserves the best line for us when he finally addresses the monster as his “son”, with all the tenderness a good father reserves for his favored being. And for that, we have a monster film that is a love story after all.
Watch the film Frankenstein for its stellar cast that includes Mia Goth and Christoph Waltz. Cinematography is by Dan Laustsen; music by Alexandre Desplat. The film is now streaming on Netflix.
from his childhood, including several near-death experiences: falling into a small well in his grandparents’ garden during the Japanese Occupation when he was three years old, and getting hit by a jeepney on Arellano Street while chasing a baseball. The Lifetime Achievement Award bestowed on Atty. Gozon further underscores not only his legacy of service, leadership and excellence, but also the enduring pride and contributions of the people of Malabon.
Tanduay shows off Andrea B. as 2026 calendar girl
KNOWN for their sexy and bold calendar designs, liquor brand Tanduay Distillers Inc. revealed during its media launch on Eton Centris, Quezon City, their fierce, sexy and iconic calendar girl for 2026—Andrea Brillantes, more known as “Blythe.”
Being one of the most popular actresses in Philippines television, playing diverse roles from Goin’ Bulilit, Annaliza and Kadenang Ginto, Andrea took it upon herself to try out much more mature roles to prove to herself that she is an artist ready to leave everyone impressed.
She recently appeared in a daring scene with Jake Cuenca on FPJ’s Batang Quiapo
“In a way, it feels empowering to me because I like to shock people. I like to keep them guessing on what I’m about to do next… it feels good that everyone saw me transform from my younger days to now, as a woman,” Andrea says about taking on mature roles.
“And now, I’m more intentional with what I do. I am more confident with what I want to do with my career… it’s not about proving anything, it’s more about enjoying where I am,” she added.
While she has made her presence in television as this charming figure, her latest endeavors left everyone breathless, especially with her showing as Tanduay’s calendar girl for 2026, making her one of the youngest to take on the role at 22. She revealed this decision was not made lightly. She thought about how the fans and her family would react if she went through with taking more daring roles in this stage of her career. Ultimately, however, she chose to challenge herself and took the opportunity.
“Nung napaisip ulit ako, wait, ready na ba ako? Ready na ba ‘yung mama ko, ‘yung lola ko... Ready na ba ‘yung mga fans ko. Kasi, syempre lumaki ako sa screen. Nakita nila ako bagets pa,” she shared during the media launch at Eton Centris. “I knew that I was ready. I am really happy to be here. This is such an honor and a huge milestone for me,” the latest Tanduay calendar girl added. Taking on such a role took a lot of thought from the actress, especially given Tanduay’s reputation of bringing out the sexiness with each of their calendar girls. According to Blythe, she stayed disciplined throughout the process.
She maintained a positive approach with the photoshoot for the calendar, not burdening herself with prevailing social norms. Instead, she focused on preparations for how to make the 2026 calendar more memorable.
“I just stayed disciplined with my new plans. Hindi ko rin sinagad ‘yung sarili ko kasi I didn’t want to push this idea na you have to look a certain way or be a specific body shape para maging calendar girl ka,” Blythe shared, revealing that she maintained in shape after falling sick prior to the shoot. Tanduay revealed six designs, with each taking on a different approach while maintaining the sexy and daring theme that everyone is familiar with. Sporty, sophisticated, and wild to name a few. She indeed looks different from what we have been used to. It is undeniable that her take in the photoshoot revealed her mature charm, showing her off as an iconic Tanduay calendar girl that audiences can’t help but look at.
Blythe’s transformation from innocence to daring is a delight to watch. And fans can expect that she will more than carry this role as she approaches 2026 with even a fiercer and bolder look.
GMA Network Chairman
Cybersecurity Essentials Workshop for First Misamis Oriental General Hospital
YourDICTRegionX continues to champion a cyber-secure Northern Mindanao.
On October 16, 2025, the DICT Region X (Department of Information and Communications Technology – Region 10) conducted a Cybersecurity Essentials Workshop with the dedicated healthcare team of First Misamis Oriental General Hospital (FMOGH) in North Poblacion, Medina, Misamis Oriental.
The session empowered 25 hospital personnel with practical knowledge on:
• Strengthening account and data protection
• Practicing proper cyber hygiene
• Understanding AI-driven cyber threats
• Complying with the Data Privacy Act of 2012
In her opening message, Dr. Nafisah M. Langilao highlighted the crucial role of cybersecurity in safeguarding hospital systems and ensuring patient trust, especially in a time where the
healthcare sector is a high-value target for cyberattacks.
Through shared learning and handson guidance, participants gained the tools to recognize online risks, prevent data incidents, and protect both personal and institutional information.
DICT Region X remains committed
its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Christmas Carnival
THE Forbes 5-star integrated resort Okada Manila ushered in the most wonderful time of the year with its spectacular Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Christmas Carnival Grand Opening held at the Fountain Foyer on November 14, 2025. The muchawaited event marked the official start of the holiday season, bringing together esteemed guests, media, and influencers for an enchanting evening of music, color, and celebration.
The evening dazzled guests with exciting performances from the Okada Manila Entertainment Group and Cardong Trumpo, Pilipinas Got Talent 2025 champion. Adding star power to the celebration was multi-awarded artist Darren Espanto, whose powerful vocals filled the Fountain Foyer with festive cheer.
The night culminated in the ceremonial lighting of Okada Manila’s magnificent Christmas tree, marking the launch of the holiday season. The tree features
bold red accents, striped ornaments, gold spheres, carousel horses, and whimsical hot air balloon elements inspired by the resort’s holiday theme, Christmas Carnival. Topped with a grand red bow and surrounded by festive decor, it stands as a vibrant centerpiece that captures the playful charm and wonder of the season.
Guests will experience the season’s magic through Okada Manila’s Christmas Carnival, a festive wonderland that brings together festive feasts, wellness delights, and holiday shopping in one extraordinary celebration. The Okada Manila Christmas Carnival invites everyone to relive the magic of the holidays through a series of events and experiences happening until January 4, 2026. Throughout the resort, vibrant decorations, dazzling displays, and delightful offerings create an atmosphere of celebration for families, couples, and friends to enjoy.
Guests can indulge in an array of festive dining experiences, each thoughtfully crafted to bring warmth and flavor to
Meralco ramps up disaster preparedness as over 3,000 employees join Q4 quake drill
Tto building a resilient and cyber-aware healthcare community, ensuring that digital transformation goes hand-in-hand with data protection and public safety. Want to equip your workplace with cybersecurity knowledge? Message us and let’s work together to strengthen cyber resilience across our communities!
the season. At La Piazza, Cena Di Natale presents an Italian-inspired feast by Chef Mattia Stroppa, which includes an exclusive holiday feast of bold Italian flavors such as handcrafted pasta, premium meats, and indulgent desserts, all thoughtfully prepared for an elegant family-style celebration for P10,000.
Medley Buffet offers a holiday spread with seasonal specialties such as roasted turkey, glazed ham, festive carving stations, and sweet Christmas desserts starting at P4,888 for adults and PHP 2,088 for kids, while Kiapo serves Paskong Pinoy favorites such as bibingka and puto bumbong available only during the holiday season. Guests can also enjoy Enbu’s Japanese Holiday Family Feast, featuring an exclusive set menu of grilled seafood, premium wagyu, and signature Japanese dishes that bring comfort and togetherness to the table for P8,088.
Those looking to unwind can bask in the comfort of the Holiday Wellness Sets, available at The Retreat Spa, The Sole Retreat, Beauty Salon, The Barbershop, and Nail Art Studio. These indulgent packages, starting at P2,888, offer the perfect way to recharge and embrace the joy of the season. After a moment of relaxation, guests can continue their holiday journey at the Pastry Shop, where Sweet Moments, Festive Delights presents handcrafted confections starting at P280, a thoughtful treat to share or gift to loved ones.
Complementing these experiences are exciting attractions like the Christmas Village, live performances by the Okada Manila Entertainment Group, and shows at The Fountain, completing the joyful atmosphere of the Okada Manila Christmas Carnival.
For more information about Okada Manila’s holiday experiences and offerings, visit www.okadamanila.com or follow @ okadamanila on social media.
The Bellevue Manila Illuminates the Season with ‘TANGLAW: Light of Joy’
THE Bellevue Manila ushered in the festive season with TANGLAW: Light of Joy, a heartwarming Christmas tree lighting ceremony held on November 5, 2025, at the hotel’s Main Wing Lobby. More than just a holiday tradition, TANGLAW, which means “light” in Filipino, symbolizes the spirit of hope, unity, and joy that shines brightest during the Christmas season. The event gathered hotel executives, corporate partners, media friends, and distinguished guests for an enchanting evening filled with music, fashion, and Filipino elegance.
Guests were treated to a cocktail buffet and serenaded with live performances that captured the warmth and wonder of the holidays. A special highlight of the evening was a Filipiniana fashion show featuring the stunning creations of Filipino designer Norman Acuba, whose collection showcased the elegance of traditional Filipino wear through modern
celebration also marked The Bellevue
extending the true essence of Christmas beyond its walls.
“This season reminds us of the importance of togetherness and gratitude,” said Patrick Chan, Managing Director of The Bellevue Hotels and Resorts. “Through TANGLAW, we want to share the light of joy not only with our guests and employees but also with the communities that need it most. Supporting initiatives like Project Libro allows us to give back in a way that creates lasting impact.”
Guests graced the occasion in Filipiniana and Barong, complementing the evening’s theme of Filipino pride and unity. The hotel’s grand Christmas tree, adorned with golden ornaments and warm lights, stood as a symbol of hope, generosity, and celebration.
With TANGLAW: Light of Joy, The Bellevue Manila continues its tradition of meaningful celebrations that highlight Filipino hospitality, artistry, and heart, reminding everyone that joy shines brightest when shared.
O further promote a safety culture and enhance its disaster preparedness, Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco) mobilized its workforce for the Fourth Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) led by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).
More than 3,000 employees, contractors, and partners joined the full-scale earthquake simulation exercise held at the Meralco Operating Center in Pasig City. The drill, which simulated a 7.2-magnitude earthquake scenario along the West Valley Fault, assessed Meralco’s emergency response capabilities and business continuity measures, as well as reinforced employee confidence in the company’s disaster preparedness.
Meralco’s Business Continuity Management team facilitated the first full-scale earthquake drill that was conducted without pre-positioned resources and under more complicated emergency scenarios to mirror a reallife calamity situation. The simulation included highangle rescue and fire suppression, mass casualty triage, and collapsed structure rescue.
Beyond the standard “duck, cover, and hold” protocol, Meralco performed structural damage assessment, activated business continuity plans, and set-up of critical emergency infrastructure, including an incident command post, emergency operations
center, field hospital, mobile kitchen, and a wellequipped evacuation center.
To ensure communication across sectors is managed, coordination with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and internal sector offices via satellite phones was staged, while improvised offices and other necessary facilities were set up to accommodate displaced personnel.
Observers from the Office of Civil Defense-National Capital Region, Pasig City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation were present to evaluate Meralco’s earthquake drill.
“The successful conduct of our full-scale earthquake simulation exercise for ‘The Big One’ underscores Meralco’s unwavering commitment to safety and resilience. By rigorously testing our emergency response and business continuity measures under realistic conditions, we have strengthened our capability to protect our people, sustain critical operations, and support the communities we serve during disasters. This exercise is a vital step in ensuring that Meralco remains prepared for any eventuality,” Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho said. Meralco regularly participates in the quarterly NSED to reinforce its commitment to safety, operational continuity, and disaster resilience.
Nano ProTech: Revolutionizing Protection Technology with Innovative Eyewear Solutions, Embraced by Media, Bloggers
FROM navigating vast oceans to steering a groundbreaking company, Capt. Roy Rivera has always been guided by vision and purpose.
Once a Ship Captain, Capt. Rivera is now at the helm of Nano ProTech, a company redefining how science and technology can protect and enhance everyday living.
Alongside two of his most trusted officers— Arjean Reyes, COO and VP for Administration and Finance, and Jit Enano, EVP for Business Development & Marketing—Capt. Rivera leads a dynamic team determined to bring innovation closer to every Filipino home and community, empowering lives through nature-inspired innovation, advanced technology, and sciencedriven solutions.
This shared leadership was on full display during the special media event themed “See the World in Style, Shielded by Science” held at Nano ProTech’s headquarters in Mandaluyong City. The event unveiled the company’s latest innovation, the Nano ProTech Eyewear Line, and gave a glimpse of its first anniversary celebration this December, aptly titled “Breakthrough 1.0: The Nano ProTech Anniversary.”
Designed for today’s fast-paced and visually demanding world, the Nano ProTech Eyewear Line showcases how science and style can seamlessly come together. Each pair fuses advanced nanotechnology and natural components embedded in the frame— including Germanium Stones, Negative Ions, Far Infrared (FIR), Silver Ions, and Multi-minerals. Working in synergy, these elements create a subtle natural interaction that promotes balance, comfort, and a relaxing wearing experience.
“We believe innovation should empower everyday living,” said Capt. Rivera, CEO and President for Sales and Product Management. “Our mission has always been to make advanced science accessible and meaningful—integrating protective technology into the products people use every day.”
Much like a well-coordinated crew, Capt. Rivera, Reyes, and Enano each play vital roles in navigating Nano ProTech toward growth and excellence. Reyes oversees the company’s operations, ensuring its systems run efficiently and sustainably, while Enano drives business expansion and nurtures strategic partnerships. Together, they steer Nano ProTech toward a future where protection is not only smart but also stylish, practical, and people-centered. The eyewear line is just one of the many innovations in Nano ProTech’s expanding portfolio. Since its founding, the company has been pioneering products that embody its philosophy of smart protection through science. Beyond eyewear, its proprietary Nano ProTech technology powers an ecosystem of solutions designed to protect, preserve, and perform. Each product reflects the brand’s dedication to research, innovation, and its goal of enhancing modern living through technology.
As Nano ProTech celebrates Breakthrough 1.0, the company marks a year of milestones, partnerships, and achievements that have established it as a trusted name in nano-protection. The celebration kicked off with “Beats of Hope: Music for a Cause” held last November 7, 2025, at their Mandaluyong headquarters. The company turned passion into compassion by directing proceeds from the concert to fund its corporate social responsibility initiatives. “With Breakthrough 1.0, we want to highlight not just how far we’ve come, but how much further innovation can take us,” said Enano. “This is just the beginning of our journey to make protection smarter, sleeker, and more sustainable.” Guided by Capt. Rivera’s steady leadership, Reyes’ strategic management, and Enano’s forward-thinking vision, Nano ProTech continues to chart new territories
In the photo is the simulation of the rescue of an employee trapped on the 13th floor of the Lopez Building, conducted by Meralco Rescue volunteers and Bureau of Fire Protection-Pasig.
Okada Manila Rings in the Holidays with Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Carnival Grand Opening
Okada Manila Rings in the Holidays with
Grand Opening
Editor: Tet Andolong • www.businessmirror.com.ph
THERE is this jarring news that lack of auto mechanics is currently plaguing the auto industry in Japan. I heard loud whispers about it during my recent coverage of the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo’s famed Big Sight upon the invite of Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP).
One dispatch from Kyodo News says, “The labor shortage in the industry has raised concerns over its potential adverse impact on automobile safety, with its tough working environment and low pay also believed to be contributing factors.”
One item exposed the horrible gap, showing that there were 509 job openings for every 100 job seekers. That’s 409 unfilled positions. Disturbing.
Says Kyodo: “The number of automotive service businesses that closed, were disbanded or went bankrupt climbed to a record high of 455 in fiscal 2024 due to a chronic labor shortage, with some companies forced to delay deliveries or limit the number of units on order, according to Teikoku Databank Ltd.”
But the case isn’t hopeless. Kyodo reports: “To combat the shortage, dealership NTP Nagoya Toyopet Corp. has implemented a system that pays up to 100,000 yen (US$650) to employees who successfully introduce peers who are recruited. It has employed nine technicians since the practice was set up in fiscal 2022.”
Doesn’t TMP maintain a high-octane school for auto mechanics in its Santa Rosa plant? I know the school has produced graduates now working in Japan. Let’s ramp it up and dispatch more mechanics to Japan’s embattled auto industry? TMP to the rescue isn’t far-fetched.
Destinator unveiled
THE All-New Mitsubishi Destinator was unveiled to a rousing success on Thursday, November 20, at the Ring Garden, Ayala Malls, Manila Bay, ushering in a new era for the versatile 7-seater SUV.
Designed for families and adventure-seekers, the Destinator marks MMPC’s newest addition to its SUV line-up that also had its simultaneous display and test drive activity on November 20-23 at the ASEANA Concert Grounds, Pasay City.
In a statement, Jose Paolo Gabarda said: “To celebrate its arrival, early customers enjoyed special introductory pricing for reservations and vehicle releases made from November 10, 2025 until January 31, 2026, inclusive of Destinator Adventure Gear merchandise.
VARIANT SRP (PHP)INTRODUCTORY PRICE (PHP)
GLX Turbo CVT 1,389,0001,289,000
GLS Turbo CVT 1,599,0001,499,000
GT Turbo CVT 1,929,0001,799,000 TMP to help Japan’s mechanic woes? Destinator unveiled
“In addition, MMPC (Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp.) is extending a Launch Event Promo exclusively for customers who will place reservation during the 4-day launch event at Ayala Malls Manila Bay between November 20–23, 2025 and release their unit on or before January 31, 2026. Qualified customers will receive an additional PHP 5,000 cash discount on top of the introductory price promo.
“Learn more at https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com.ph/cars/ destinator
Facebook: facebook.com/MitsubishiMotorsPH
Instagram: instagram.com/mitsubishimotorsph
TikTok: tiktok.com/@mitsubishi.motors.ph
YouTube: youtube.com/MitsubishiMotorsPhilippines
PEE STOP Carlo Ablaza, the youthful, energy-loaded Lexus Manila Gallery president, is still all smiles after the smashingly successful opening of the newly-refurbished and massively expanded Lexus Showroom on Nov. 6 at 8th Avenue, North Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. No less than Lexus Philippines Chairman Alfred V. Ty was on hand to welcome the best-selling luxury brand’s honored guests like the Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya and Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano. Also present, among others, were Lexus PHL vice chairman Dr. David Go, Lexus PHL president Masando Hashimoto, TMP director Salvador “Bingbong” Medialdea and Lexus PHL executive vice president Jose Maria “Jing” Atienza. Vince Socco, the perennial pillar at Toyota and Lexus, was a warmly-applauding spectator from the sidelines—as always. Cheers!
VINFAST PHILIPPINES INTRODUCES
THE RESIDUAL VALUE GUARANTEE PROGRAM
Story by Randy S. Peregrino
VINFAST in the Philippines recently launched its Residual Value Guarantee (RVG) Program. This equivalent buyback program guarantees up to 90 percent of the vehicle’s original price. This pioneering policy gives customers greater peace of mind as they switch to electric vehicles (EVs), accelerates the shift to green mobility, and demonstrates the brand’s long-term commitment to the Philippine market.
Starting in November 2025, VinFast will implement a guaranteed residual value plan based on a fixed annual depreciation schedule to strengthen customer confidence in the long-term value of EVs. After confirming that the vehicle meets eligibility criteria through inspection, VinFast guarantees a maximum residual value of 90 percent after 6 months, 86 percent after 1 year, 78 percent after 2 years, and 70 percent after 3 years.
The RVG Program covers the brand’s entire product lineup
in the Philippines, from the VF 3 to the VF 9, and welcomes new customers. With this latest customer-centric solution, the Vietnamese EV maker is helping Filipino consumers transition to electric vehicles. Previously, VinFast offered a vehicle warranty of up to 10 years, 3 years of free charging at V-Green stations, flexible financing options, and 24-hour technical support and roadside assistance.
Antonio Zara, CEO of VinFast Southeast Asia, stated: “With a residual value guarantee of up to 90% of the vehicle’s list
A TOUCH OF KOREAN FLAIR:
price, VinFast aims to make EV ownership more accessible and reassuring for Filipino consumers. When combined with our other support programs, we believe electric vehicles will soon become a natural and reliable choice for households and individual users across the Philippines. This program reflects our long-term commitment to the market and reinforces our strong belief in the quality of our products.”
VinFast reports that after over a year in the Philippine market, it has steadily strengthened its presence. This was achieved by offering a diverse EV portfolio, adopting flexible sales policies, and delivering dedicated aftersales services. The Vietnamese EV maker is expanding its network of authorized dealerships. It also partners with leading local companies to operate maintenance service centers, providing customers with convenient, consistent service nationwide. VinFast aims to continue expanding its distribution and service network in key locations across the Philippines, further developing a comprehensive EV ecosystem centered on sustainable mobility. These efforts reinforce the company’s long-term commitment to Filipino consumers and lay the foundation for sustainable growth. To learn more about the RVG program, visit https:// vinfastauto.ph/.
Kia Launches the Limited Sonet K-Style Edition
A refreshed take on Kia’s best-selling SUV with Korean-inspired flair and youthful energy
KIA Philippines, a subsidiary of ACMobility, introduces the new Kia Sonet K-Style Edition, a limited-number variant that builds on the Sonet’s already striking appeal.
Known for its head-turning design, the Sonet has become a favorite among styleconscious drivers, and Kia Philippines has further enhanced its look with exclusive additions inspired by modern aesthetics. Its name reflects Kia’s heritage and design philosophy: “K” for its Korean roots, and “Style” for its expressive design, capturing the individuality and creativity of today’s generation.
“The Kia Sonet K-Style celebrates the vibrant energy of today’s new generation of drivers,” said Jay Lopez, Managing Director of Kia Philippines.
“It’s designed for those who want their first car to reflect their individuality, expressive, confident, and ready for new adventures, while embodying Kia’s understanding of what young drivers value most.”
Style and Heritage in Motion
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CEO of VinFast Southeast Asia Antonio Zara discussing the RVG program. VINFAST PHILIPPINES
KIA Sonet K Style Edition
Rookie pro on track at Valley Challenge
CARL CORPUS turned what had looked like an early coronation march into a tense third-round finish in Moving Day of the International Container Terminal Services Inc. Valley Golf Challenge on Thursday in Antipolo City.
Corpus settled for a two-under 70 and stayed in command by four shots to stand within reach of a breakthrough Philippine Golf Tour victory.
Corpus admitted that the lateround turbulence owed much to a combination of unfavorable pin placements and the demands of Valley Golf South’s tricky greens.
“There’s no pressure actually, it was that I didn’t get close enough with my approach shots,” said Corpus, who three-putted thrice in his last seven holes. “You really have to hit it very close because it’s so hard to putt—the greens were quite slow.”
“I didn’t have the luxury of sticking my approaches near the pin and that cost me those three-putts,” he added.
CHANELLE AVARICIO took up the cudgels for the embattled Ladies Philippine Golf Tour (LPGT) delegation with a gritty one-under-par 71 in Thursday’s second round of the Party Golfers Ladies Open at the wind-whipped Lily Golf and Country Club in Hsinchu.
After a 76 in cold, blustery conditions on Wednesday, Avaricio showed remarkable composure and adaptability on the hillside layout and despite the temperatures still dipping and winds swirling, Avaricio’s 36-hole haul of 147 pushed her from 37th to joint 17th—seven shots off new leader Wenny Chang, who surged ahead behind a scorching 31 on the front nine en route to a 69 and a 140 total.
Avaricio credited her improved short game for her resurgence, particularly around the greens, where she repeatedly salvaged pars and maintained rhythm despite the elements.
“My short game was so much better, especially my around-the-green,” she said. “I didn’t really think of what to score. I just wanted to focus on every shot.”
W hile Avaricio climbed, early
‘Filipina5’
contenders Florence Bisera and LK Go were unable to withstand the demanding conditions.
Bisera limped to a birdie-less 77, sliding from a share of eighth to joint 30th at 149, where she joined fellow LPGT mainstays Princess Superal and Daniella Uy—who also struggled with 74 and 75, respectively. Go, meanwhile, endured the toughest fall of the day. An error-filled 80 sent her tumbling 37 spots down the leaderboard into a tie for 45th at 152, the gusting winds repeatedly punishing miscues off the tee and into the greens. She barely made the cut.
Among other Filipinas, Mafy Singson carded a 74 and climbed to a share of 36th at 151 to advance, but Marvi Monsalve missed the cut by one despite rebounding with a 73 for a 153.
At the top, local bet Chang grabbed the lead, banking on her early four-birdie burst that provided enough cushion to offset a shaky 38 at the finish.
Her 69 for a 140 aggregate nudged her ahead of Ching Huang, whose 70 placed her one stroke back at 141.
kicks off World Cup futsal campaign against Poland
SHis b ogeys on Nos. 12, 13 and 17 came after he had soared to an imposing eight-shot lead spiked by another eagle on No. 7 and a birdie on the 11th for a running 14-under total.
But Corpus clarified that the miscues were not mental lapses but the result of targets that simply didn’t suit his natural shape.
“To be honest, I needed to make better decisions, especially since most of the pins were on the tough right side,” he said.
“I’m not very comfortable with those because I hit a draw. All season I’ve struggled with that kind of placement. I’ve been working on it a lot, but sometimes it really comes down to luck.”
The rookie remained firmly in control with a 12-under 204 aggregate and his closest chaser turned out to be someone he knows so well—his cousin, Aidric Chan.
Chan carded a sparkling 66, highlighted by an eagle-aided 34 on the front and a blistering four-birdie charge in the last nine holes.
Now four shots back at 208, he
UP on a roll Gerry Abadiano and the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons rally past the Ateneo Blue Eagles, 79-75, to secure a twice-to-beat Final Four advantage in University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 88 men’s basketball action on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. UP is 10-3 won-lost in second place for its sixth-straight twice-to-beat incentive, while Ateneo 5 is now on the brink of elimination with a 5-7 card.
Editor: Jun Lomibao
emerged as the primary threat after early pursuers Clyde Mondilla, Arnold Villacencio and Angelo Que all faltered when they were expected to launch a serious assault.
“I’m excited to play with Carl,” Chan said. “It’s something we’ve both dreamed of since we were young—to compete at the top level together.”
Chan insisted he would carry no expectations into the final round.
Joining the cousins in the championship flight was multi-titled Guido van der Valk, who birdied his last two holes for a 69 to tie Que, who shot a 70, at 210.
Jeffren Lumbo’s 71 dropped him to joint fifth at 211 with Ryan Monsalve, who put in a 70, while Villacencio and Mondilla slipped to 212 after struggling with 73 and 74, respectively.
Tony Lascuña rediscovered his rhythm, topping the day with a tournament-best, bogey-free 64 that hauled the five-time Order of Merit champion from near the tail of the surviving field to a share of ninth at 213 alongside Jhonnel Ababa and Ira Alido, who matched 69s.
Q ue and van der Valk, six shots adrift, remain determined to spoil the cousins’ bid in the P2 million final leg of this year’s Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc. circuit.
JBy Josef Ramos
UAN GOMEZ DE LIAÑO comes in handy with his international play acumen for the men’s national team that faces Guam twice starting next week in the FIBA 2027 World Cup Asia Qualifiers.
“He’s playing very, very well and his skills equate to the international level,” said Gilas Pilipinas head coach Tim Cone on his latest addition to the pool that will be eventually cut to a final 12 for the away game in Guam on November 28 and the home match at the Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym on December 1.
“His pick and roll is doing extremely well and read it very well,” Cone said.
“He’s a little more offensive oriented than Scottie [Thompson] and Chris Newsome, so he kind of brings a different dimension to the team.” T he 6-foot Converge guard out of University of the Philippines was injected into the pool, a surprise move by Cone who earlier had issues on the
player making a waning seconds shot in a Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup game. Cone, however, said that defense remains the priority for the team.
“He’s really a good defender too, but he brings more in terms of scoring and shootings, and he is a tremendous passer…just really, really good offensive player and a very much willing defender,” Cone added.
Gomez de Liaño and big man Quentin Milloria-Brown were at Gilas’s practices at the Ateneo The team got a visit on Thursday from Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas’s newly-elected president and executive director Erika Dy with naturalization candidate Benny Boatwright. We really appreciate them to come over and talk to the team,” Cone said. “We need to get some continuity, have time to look at videos and be together more.” T he team plays Australia and New Zealand in February and March next year for the second window of the qualifiers.
TALWARTS of football’s fast-paced indoor variant look to seize the moment in the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup firing off Friday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
the Filipina5, who primed up for the futsal worlds with a training camp and friendlies in Spain.
Avaricio takes up cudgels for LPGT bets’ struggling stint in Taiwan Organizers target out-of-metro sports, ammunitions show in ’26
S ixteen of the globe’s finest teams are in town to fight it out for the first-ever World Cup trophy for women’s futsal.
Among the aspirants are the Philippine squad “Filipina5,” who are determined to recapture the magic of their Filipinas sisters in the 11-a-side format at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“I k now it’s a moment bigger than myself. It’s for my family, for every Filipino who dreams, and for our country,” said Filipina5 forward Dionesia Tolentin. “As a Filipina, it would be such an honor to walk out in our national colors and hear our anthem at the World Cup.” Action in futsal showpiece unwraps with an explosive double-header in Group A—World No. 6 Argentina and
31stranked Morocco kick things off at 6 p.m. followed by the opening ceremony at 8 p.m. to be graced by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and other dignitaries. Then at 8:30 p.m., it’s the turn of host Philippines, ranked 63rd, to hit the court against No. 14 Poland. Three mainstays of the Filipinas team that scored a historic 1-0 victory over host New Zealand in the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Wellington— Jaclyn Sawicki, Katrina Guillou and Isabella Flanigan—are reinforcing
“ We’re ready. One thing’s for sure, we belong here. We’re not going out there just to be able to compete; we’re going out there to win,” said Philippine Football Federation president John Gutierrez.
“I h ave a strong feeling that we will win because on home court the Filipino
heart beats faster. That is the magic of sports tourism,” said Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio. “We thank FIFA for this historic partnership and the Department of Tourism for believing in sports as a window for the world to see the Philippines.”
Spikers in morale-boosting victory
sustained her game-long brilliance and punctuated the match with a thunderous power hit—her 35th point of the night—to finally slam the door on Galeries Tower’s winless campaign. Capital1 wrapped up the two-phase preliminaries with a 4-4 win-loss record, climbing to No. 7 in the standings and still with a chance to rise to sixth depending
on the result of the PLDT-Petro Gazz showdown set later in the day. Akari, also at 4-4, slipped to eighth with 12 points, while Capital1 improved to 13 points. The Chargers are poised to face the No. 1 team once the PLDT-Petro Gazz duel concludes and the rest of the quarterfinal matchups will follow in ranking order.
W hile Bytsenko delivered her second-best scoring performance in the league after her 39-point outburst against Nxled, it was Nika Yandoc who supplied the emotional heartbeat of Capital1’s victory. Coming off the bench in place of
veteran Iris Tolenada, Yandoc seized the moment with a 19-excellent-set performance, orchestrating the offense with poise that belied her inexperience while taking over in the last two frames. In the post-game interview, the pressure, relief and pride all converged. Yandoc broke down in tears as she dedicated her breakout performance—and the team’s hard-fought win—to her mother, who was visibly emotional as well in the stands.
CARL CORPUS settles for a two-under 70 to stay in command by four shots and stand within reach of a breakthrough Philippine Golf Tour victory. BERNARD TESTA
CHANELLE AVARICIO shows remarkable composure and adaptability on the hillside layout of the Lily Golf and Country Club.
